Darren in at The Furness
 
Darren Stainton, the new man in the chair of The Furness Mark Lodge No 36, is somewhat of a highflier. However, when he reaches a certain altitude he exits the door and parachutes back down to earth. Darren completed over 100 jumps whilst he was serving Queen and country in the Army some 25 years ago. He has recently taken to the skies once more, not for sponsorship as many do, but simply for the fun of it! As my late mother would have commented, “Eee our David it takes all sorts.”
Darren drops in (note he actually seems to be smiling!)
Graham Benson, the installing master, was delighted to welcome Geoff Bury the APGM (designate) as the representative of the RW PGM. Geoff was accompanied by several distinguished grand officers and two acting provincial grand officers in the persons of Nigel Higginson and John Parrott. The other APGM designate David Winder was present to witness Graham’s departure from the chair after having been the principal guest when he was placed into it last year.
Geoff Bury with Darren Stainton on his left and Graham Benson on his right
along with the “junior” Brethren
There were several Masters in Office present in the persons of Bill Richmond of Scorton Mark Lodge, Nick Baxter of Morecambe Mark Lodge, David Gandey of Duddon Mark Lodge, Cumberland and Westmorland, Nigel Higginson of Garnett Mark Lodge and Brian Davey of Adoniram Mark Lodge.
The grand and acting officers, Nigel Higginson, Russ Greenhow, Darren Stainton,
Rowly Saunders, Geoff Bury, Bill Joughin, Graham Benson,
Stuart Brackstone, Kieron Mullan, Les Preston and John Parrott
Those present were able to witness Graham install his successor in what was an impeccable manner. As well as being a tremendous ambassador for The Furness Mark Graham had obviously also found the time to put in many hours learning the ritual. His efforts were well worthwhile as it was a delight to witness.
Some of the WMs, Nick Baxter, David Gandey, Darren Stainton and Bill Richmond
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the re-entrance of 15 junior Brethren following the inner workings, it was an impressive sight when they lined up in the north.
The next candidate Dave Hughes with his proposer Dave Sear
Geoff Waters delivered the address to the Wardens and John Parrott that to the Overseers, both played their part in fine style. It fell to Geoff Bury to orate the address to the Brethren in a delightful manner which added to the occasion. I chipped in with the address to Darren.
Brian Benn, Geoff Bury, Graham Dowling, David Winder and Peter Schofield
Attracting special praise was Jon Reed who stepped up from the stewards’ bench to present the working tools of the degree, it was word perfect and nicely delivered.
 
To mark the occasion Darren presented the representative with a cheque for £500 in favour of the provincial charity.
Brian Benn, Tony Cassells, John Browne and Graham Dowling
There will be work for Darren to do over the summer as he has the advancement of David Hughes at the next meeting in September. During his time in office, which because of Covid was 18 months, Graham advanced four new members and hopefully that interest in the order will continue giving the new team plenty of work.
Darren also has an appointment with Furness RAM Lodge No 375 being the next candidate for elevation.
 
Geoff and David were not the only ones present who will be honoured at Provincial Grand Lodge in Blackpool, as also in attendance were Brian Benn of Jubilee Mark Lodge and Graham Dowling of Morecambe Mark Lodge who will be invested as acting deacons as well as Peter Schofield of Jubilee and The Furness Mark Lodges who will receive his first appointment as Past Provincial Grand Inspector of Works.
Visitors David Gandey, Alan Gregory, George Howling, Norman Guy and Les Newlands
Following the formalities of the lodge room over 50 members and their guests enjoyed a simple but very tasty meal of steak pie and roast potatoes followed by, as is traditional at The Furness Mark, rice pudding.
Darren displayed he had potential for progress in the order when he picked out the raffle ticket of Geoff Bury for the first prize of a very good bottle of malt whisky!
 
The soundtrack to the meal was the buzz of people enjoying themselves and the company they were in. Long may that continue.
 
Words and pictures by Dave Sear