-
Furness RAM Installation
 
Outgoing Worshipful Commander Ian Cottam capped off his tenure at the helm of Furness RAM Lodge No 375 in fine style as he installed Bill Glassey as his successor.
John Bicknell. Bill Glassey and Ian Cottam
The ceremony at Ulverston Masonic Hall was well attended with the principal guest representing the PGM being John Bicknell. It was John’s third attempt to represent at the meeting. One year it had fallen victim to the Covid restrictions and another his journey was cancelled due to a violent storm which resulted in advice being given against travel due to fallen trees etc.
 
Among the 45 people in attendance were visiting contingents representing Duddon RAM from Cumberland and Westmorland, Preston RAM and Morecambe RAM.
Brethren waiting for the commencement
All were able to observe Ian go about the ceremony in an excellent manner. As John was to later remark,” It was a superb installation with Bill being installed in a wonderful manner,” a sentiment that all who witnessed it could concur with.
 
John was called into action to orate the exposition of the order and did so in his usual fluent and accurate style which was enjoyed by all. I chipped in with the presentation of the keystone jewel.
Some of the visitors from West Lancs
Special mention is merited with regard to the work of director of ceremonies Stuart Brackstone. A recent shoulder injury meant that Ian could not demonstrate the signs whilst Bill is not the steadiest on his feet. Some lateral thinking meant Stuart was able to work around the challenges that faced him and still ensure that the ceremony was carried out smoothly and with dignity.
 
Special mention is merited with regard to the work of director of ceremonies Stuart Brackstone. A recent shoulder injury meant that Ian could not demonstrate the signs whilst Bill is not the steadiest on his feet. Some lateral thinking meant Stuart was able to work around the challenges that faced him and still ensure that the ceremony was carried out smoothly and with dignity.
Geoff Waters, David Smith and Stuart Brackstone
On their return after the inner workings it was pleasing to see eight members line up as Bill was proclaimed as Worshipful Commander.
 
Geoff Waters was on hand to play the organ and add harmony to the occasion.
 
To mark the occasion John was presented with a cheque for £375 in favour of the West Lancashire Mark Charity.
Visiting Commanders
Stuart Bateson Morecambe RAM, Tony Thackrah Preston RAM and Jim Richards Adoniram RAM.
If an air of Deja-vu pervaded the meeting it was because Ian had had the duty on a previous occasion of installing Bill in the chair of The Furness Mark Lodge No 36.
At refreshment
Following the formalities of the installation it was time to go from labour to refreshment. Some Mark Master Masons who are not yet members of The Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariner were welcomed to the installation meal. A main course of beef was thoroughly enjoyed before a splendid cheese board was offered up. It went down well.
 
It was a delightful evening of first class ritual, good food and excellent company exemplifying this wonderful and colourful degree.
 
Words and pictures by Dave Sear