Bro Ian Lynch (left) and Bro Karl Spencer (right) had both been eagerly waiting their turn to saviour the “Magic of the Mark” more closely and to be Advanced into Wilbraham Lodge 523 in Widnes.  Having waited since attending a “White Table” in December 2022, they were very keen to get involved and arrived in plenty of time to verify their applications, confirm their details, make necessary payment and steel themselves for the evening ahead.

Any apprehension they felt was soon dissipated by the welcome they received form the WM, Bro Robert Williams, and the brethren of the lodge.  They recalled their earlier visit to the lodge, and festive board, and how they were then made to feel.  Part of the family!

They took their first steps into the lodge under the guidance of the two Deacons, W Bros Brian Horabin and Ian Rowan.  They were Advanced by the WM in what was a very sincere ceremony, with the working tools being delivered by W Bro Brian Boothroyd.  Both candidates enjoyed their Advancement, with each commenting, from their experiences in masonry so far, on the excellent work conducted and the relaxed manner of those involved.

It was a busy evening that also included the presentation of a MMM certificate to Bro Kevin Morton, by VW Bro Tony Tallon.  Bro Kevin is enjoying this very friendly degree and is understanding why we refer to “The Magic of the Mark” so much.

The festive board was calling so the WM led the way to a sumptuous menu of Broccoli and Stilton soup, Mince and Onion pie, chips etc and Trifle.  (There was a special request for Mushroom soup at the next meeting!)

Once over, all merrily departed with both Bros Ian and Karl receiving invitations to the Clarence Mark lodge meeting on 4th December to witness an Advancement and a collaborative talk between these two old lodges.