Harty Scorton
 
As Mark masons continue to emerge slowly from the enforced hibernation inflicted by the Covid pestilence Worshipful; Masters are at last managing to install their successors a year or more later than scheduled.
Such was the case at the installation meeting of Scorton Mark Lodge No 1103 held at Garstang Masonic Hall.
Eric Hart, Les Newlands and Ian Henderson
Outgoing master Ian Henderson was pleased to welcome the Provincial Grand Junior Warden Eric Hart to the meeting as the representative of the Provincial Grand Master. Joining Eric in the procession into the lodge was Provincial Grand Senior Warden David Winder, Grand Steward Phil Watson and your northern correspondent in the guise of special representative for the area.
All were able to witness Ian install Les Newlands as his successor in what was a sincere and pleasing manner.
Les had been presented for installation by lodge stalwart and secretary Bob Tinsley. That was very apt as Bob had been the proposer of Les into masonry in general and Mark masonry in particular.
Ian Henderson, David Winder, David Sear, Les Newlands, Eric Hart and Phil Watson
Proceedings were overseen by stand-in director of ceremonies Stuart Mowbray who was later to be appointed to that role with Martin Swarbrick as his assistant.. His gentle guidance and unflustered manner helped the evening flow and put everyone at their ease.
It was pleasing to see seven Brethren standing in the north following their re-admission after the inner workings.
Martin Swarbrick, Mark Astbury, Stuart Mowbray and Bob Tinsley
The address to the newly installed master was given by your northern correspondent with David Winder called into action to instruct the wardens as to their duties, David Kirkham performed a similar role in respect of the overseers whilst Eric was made to sing for his supper and orate the address to the Brethren.
The working tools were presented and moralised upon by Bob.
 
The members of Scorton Mark Lodge were delighted to hear of the efforts of two of their members being recognised by the province, when , at the May Provincial meeting,  Bob will be promoted to the rank of Past Provincial Grand Junior Warden and Martin will receive his first appointment as acting Provincial Grand Junior Deacon.
Harry Kilgour, David Tattersall and Graham Benson
Amongst the interested spectators were, in addition to myself, three other visiting masters. Graham Benson of Furness Mark, Harry Kilgour of Jubilee Mark and David Tattersall of Garnett Mark. Being the provincial organist David provided the melodies on the evening.
 
One of the highlights was in witness the number of “junior” Brethren who were appointed and invested in the progressive offices. It bodes well for the future.
Scorton Mark Lodge members
Following the ceremony it was time for refreshment and camaraderie.
The installation meal was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
 
Bob had not yet finished his work as, accompanied by David Tattersall, he gave a rousing rendition of the Master’s Song.
 
The warmth of the welcome in the building contrasted sharply with the very wet, miserable weather that awaited once away from the confines of the building
 
However, not even the standing water, which made the journey home longer than usual, could detract from what had been a very enjoyable occasion.
Words and pictures by Dave Sear