Walton at Warrington
 
The Walton Lodge of Installed Mark Masters No 161 “The Provincial Grand Stewards’ Lodge” only meets twice a year.
Jack Parker, Derek Gaskell, Hugh O’Neil, Jim Hustler and Bill Wainwright
One of those meetings is of course the installation meeting which it was intended, until changing circumstances dictated otherwise, would be held in Leyland. It was agreed that the other meeting be held at a masonic hall of the Master’s choosing. It has also been decided that on the occasion of that meeting that the ladies of the lodge members be invited to dine.
Susan Cook and Hugh O’Neil
WM Hugh O’Neil selected Warrington Masonic Hall as the venue for the meeting and accompanying ladies social evening.
The brief meeting was tinged with a little sadness as it saw tribute paid to charity steward Andy Maginn who had been called to higher service.
 
The business saw Michael Clarke re-elected as Treasurer and I was privileged to be declared Master Elect for the ensuing year.
Whilst we were going about our Masonic duties the ladies were meeting friends old and new whilst enjoying an aperitif in the bar.
Following the meeting Hugh and his partner Susan Cook hosted the ladies social evening.
The food proved to be very good and was well received.
The musical entertainment was provided by Tony Ravel. He turned out to be an excellent choice as the patrons were soon singing along and dancing to the music.
The diners
This inaugural ladies to dine evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended and will hopefully be the foundation stone of many other such events over the coming years. Hugh and Susan are to be congratulated as are all who helped organise it. Warrington Masonic Hall proved to be an ideal venue.
 
I am unsure where to host the occasion next year. If I was to hold it at Barrow in Furness Masonic Hall the travelling may prove too much of an obstacle for some. I would welcome any (sensible) suggestions as to the venue.
Words and pictures by Dave Sear