Morecambe Advancement
 
Former Carnforth Mayor Larry Branyan is the latest member of Morecambe Mark Lodge No 716. It is thought that Larry is the first man to be born in Rochester to be advanced into the lodge – that is Rochester in the state of New York not the Kent town.
Nick Baxter, Larry Branyan and Alan Gregory
The proposer of Larry was unable to be present as he had migrated south to Lanzarote for a few weeks away from our miserable weather. Others too had had to tender their apologies but those substituting did a fine job. These included former Deputy PGM Tony Harrison acting as director of ceremonies and Garnett Mark director of ceremonies Ian Stokes making a guest appearance as senior overseer.
 
The first part of the advancement, up to and including the obligation, was undertaken by WM Nick Baxter. It then fell to lodge stalwart Alan Gregory to take the main chair and conduct the rest of the ceremony.
Geoff Bury, Larry Branyan and Malcolm Brown
Geoff Bury, who had seconded Larry’s nomination, was delighted to take up the offer to act as senior deacon for the ceremony and conduct the candidate through his advancement. He also presented the working tools. He was ably assisted in discharging his duties by junior deacon Malcolm Brown.
 
All who took part played their part well in what was a pleasant and well conducted ceremony.
Afterwards a tasty meal, the menu being chicken, was enjoyed.
 
Words and pictures by Dave Sear