News - Kent Brethren supporting Masonry Universal (well East Lancashire really)

Despite the foreboding date of Friday the 13th, W. Bro. Derek Wilkins and W. Bro. Mark Woolcott set off to the sound of the dawn chorus to attend their East Lancs Council, Shuttleworth Council No. 50, with the District Grand Prefect R. W. Bro. Brian Ward and the Deputy District Grand Prefect W. Bro. Geoff Whale.

The five hour drive completed; it was only reasonable that after checking into the hotel that the team investigated the local sights. Unfortunately, they only got as far as the pub across the road, where the local spring water was sampled of course. Clearly being from out of town the land lady was really friendly and offered the lads a taste of her home-made Lychee wine, which certainly had a kick.

After the cultural integration the team retired to their rooms for a well-earned rest before the main event.

Arrived at the venue, refreshed and almost ready to go

Following a short drive into town the team were received by the District Grand Prefect for East Lancs. R. W. Bro. Graham Newton as The Secretary of the Council and an old friend to many in Kent W. Bro. Peter Warner as Worshipful Master. Following the installation ceremony at which W. Bro. Derek Wilkins was re-appointed as Director of Ceremonies and W. Bro. Mark Woolcott re-appointed as Inner Guard. Supported by their guests R.W. Bro. Brian Ward who acted as Junior Warden and W. Bro. Geoff Whale who acted as Chaplain.

All set for the Shuttleworth Council Meeting

The Festive Board was a really enjoyable affair with friends from around the country.

On arrival back at the hotel the Lads from the Garden of England enjoyed some really warm conversations with some locals in the bar who made the lads very welcome indeed.

The Boys from Kent enjoying the local refreshments

The evening was completed with a few glasses of the local spring water again before retiring for the night in preparation for the East Lancashire District Meeting of the Allied Masonic Degrees - the tale continues…

Article by Mark Woolcott

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