Semper Fidelis Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 880
 
First meeting of the Lodge in the new season: Thursday 12th September 2024.
The WC, Bro. Roy Rhodes, welcomed everybody; sixteen members and guests, and duly opened the Lodge.
W.Bro. Tony Thackrah acted as Guardian for the evening.
A memoriam was read by W.Bro. Jimmy Rogers for W.Bro. Brian Burgess Dicks who sadly passed away on the 16th August 2024, after a long battle with cancer.  All present stood for a period of reflection.
A ballot was taken for Bro. Paul Smedley which proved in favour and Bro. Smedley was duly elevated with W. Bro. Tom Egan taking the chair to elevate his candidate. W.Bro. Bob Bennet explained the tools in his customary excellent manner. W.Bro. Alan Fairhurst explained the signs and Bro. David Kenworthy explained the steps, both with eloquence and sincerity.
Bro. David Kenworthy was then declared as Worshipful Commander for the ensuing year and W.Bro. Harry Cox as treasurer. Both responded with thanks.
The Lodge was duly closed and the members and visitors repaired to the bar and an excellent buffet.
W. Bro Bennet ran the raffle and raised £100!
A gentle return to the new season was enjoyed by all.
 
Words and pictures by Tony Cross