Ormskirk Lodge of Mark Master Masons. No. 734
Park Road, Ormskirk, Thursday 10th November 2022
 
Here I go again, set off early as usual, forced my way up the on ramp M60, traffic lights not working at the top? over the high level bridge, five minutes then left on to the M62, guess what within a couple of miles, yes you’ve guessed it road works, fifty miles an hour whilst they continue with this wonderful Smart Motorway (not).
Next it was the M6, traffic, traffic and more traffic, couldn’t get above forty, next it was the M58 which was ok, then on to the A570 which wasn’t bad at all and took me all the way to the hall.
Arrived in good time at the hall and managed to get my usual spot behind the building, £3 for nine hours, that’s got to be one of the best parking spots ever. Went inside and turned right upstairs to the Masonic area, welcoming handshakes and lots of friendly faces already there, likewise a few of the Team were in the Temple eager to be put through their paces by our Prov DC W.Bro. Arthur Robinson who is doing a great job since taking over from our much-respected W.Bro. Dave Emmerson who was our Prov DC for many years.
The Lodge opened for business on time at 6 pm and once several housekeeping items had been dealt with the PGM RW Bro. Keith Alan Beardmore entered accompanied by Acting Grand and Prov Grand Officers. He was presented to the WMM Bro. Anthony Prior who after welcoming Keith immediately offered him the Gavel, Keith said on this occasion he would accept it for a short time so that he could introduce the members of the Team to everyone present.
Once the WMM had returned to his rightful seat he invited the Prov S.W. David Durling to occupy the office of Installing SW and W.Bro. Brian Holding to occupy the office of Installing JW, both said they would be delighted. W.Bro. Prince Bagley was duly Installed as W.M.M. for the ensuing year in fine style by W.Bro. Anthony Prior assisted by members of the Lodge who were then presented and Installed in their various offices.
The working tools were presented and explained by W.Bro. John Glover. PPrGSD, who was soon in action again when he gave the address to the WM, W.Bro. David Durling gave the address to the Wardens, W.Bro. Brian Holding gave the address to the Overseers and finally the PGM Keith gave the address to all present, one of my favourite pieces.
There was a Grand Lodge Certificate to be presented which was done with sincerity by VW Bro. Maurice Evans PGJO and finally the WMM had much pleasure in presenting Keith with a cheque for the Mark Charities with what Our PGM described as a magnificent amount of £500 which would be gratefully received and put to a  genuine needy cause.
Now the time had come for the PGM to retire from the meeting he thanked the WMM Bro. Prince Bagley and all the members of the lodge for the excellent welcome they had received, he accompanied by the Acting Grand and Prov Grand Officers they gathered outside until the meeting was concluded when everyone returned for the usual photo’s session to record the event.
All present then made their way downstairs to get some liquid refreshment and take up their allotted places for the Festive Board, an excellent meal was served up by the very friendly and efficient hall staff, nothing was too much trouble for them, even seconds were offered. A nice glass of wine was served to everyone, then it was time for the usual speeches and responses all of which were well received.
 
All too soon it was over for another great meeting, everyone said their goodbyes and gave the usual genuine handshakes before setting out into the chilled night air, here’s looking forward to our next meeting to see old friends and those we have yet to meet.
 
“The Magic of the Mark”          
Austin N Fletcher. PGJD.
Flixton Shepherd Eastwood Mark Lodge. 1173