Edmund Taylor Royal Ark Mariners Lodge No 296
 
Elevation meeting, Tuesday 16th April 2024 at the Masonic Hall, Adelaide Street, Blackpool.
The WM, Bro. Shaun Haynes opened the Lodge at 18.30hrs (one bell; the last dog watch).
21 members, plus 1 visitor, plus 1 candidate for elevation were present, including the RWPGM.
Salutations were given to the RWPGM, for which he thanked the Brethren.
A ballot was held for Bro. Nick Osbourne a member of Bispham with Norbreck Mark Lodge No. 866, which proved unanimously in favour.
An excellent ceremony was carried out by members of the Lodge with the candidate guided around the Lodge floor by Bro. Alan Barnes (SD) and Bro. James Rashid (JD). WBro. Wally Atcheson acted as JW for the night.  Bro. Barry Shaw (SW) gave an explanation of the steps with Bro. Barnes carrying out the actions!
WBro. Bob Bennet gave an excellent explanation of the working tools on completion of the ceremony.
Following the elevation, the Lodge business was worked through, including a declaration for the Commander for the following year; Bro. Barry Shaw, who thanked the Brethren.  WBro. Howard Emmett, was declared the treasurer for the ensuing year.  WBro. Emmett thanked the Brethren.
The Lodge was duly closed and the Brethren decamped to the bar area and onto the festive board, which was lively with good food, banter and good craic, which was enjoyed by all!
A Fylde Coast fiddle raffle was organised by Bro. Steve Smith, which raised £114. A number of additional prizes for the raffle magically appeared from Bro Roger Buckley!

A very good night aboard the Edmund Taylor Royal Ark Mariner Lodge was had by all!
Words and pictures by Tony Cross