Magnificent work in the lodge

Stephen Anthony Rhodes was installed as the new master of Stretford with Trafford Lodge No 4379, this is also Stephen’s first time through the chair of King Solomon.

Ray Martland congratulates Stephen Rhodes.

Ray Martland, Assistant Provincial Grand Master was the principal guest, he was accompanied by a true galaxy of stars consisting of Grand and Provincial Grand Officers.

Graham Wood the outgoing worshipful master installed his successor Stephen Anthony Rhodes into the chair of King Solomon in a very seamless and very well polished ceremony ably assisted by the brethren and officers of the lodge.

The third degree tools were given by Mal Walters, the second by John Harrop and the first by David Onabanjo all of which were done the long way which Ray said was really good to hear.

After the ceremony Ray congratulated Stephen on reaching the chair of King Solomon for the first time and hoped he would enjoy his year.

Stephen presented the Ray with a most generous cheque, on behalf of the lodge, to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity for the sum of £600, which was most gratefully received.

In Ray’s response at the social board he said he hoped Stephen had had a very special day and he was also hopeful that in 12 months time that Stephen could look back on a fantastic year. He also commented on the magnificent work done in the lodge by Graham and first class work by brethren who delivered the working tools and the rest of the team who took part.

The master’s song was sung most admirably by Peter Brown.

David Marlor of Bridgewater Lodge No 1213 responded to the toast to the visitors as the newest master on the circuit, as well as wishing Stephen a great time on the masters circuit he thanked him for an excellent social board.

David also had the opportunity to pass on the traditional black spot which was introduced in the Eccles Group by Tony Edden who with reference to the black in Treasure island when it was passed on to the doomed Billy Bones, introduced the black spot which is now passed on to the newly installed master who is then doomed to respond to the toast to visitors at the first installation he attends!

Pictured from left to right, are: Stephen Rhodes, Graham Wood.

Pictured left to right, are: John Harrop, Stephen Rhodes, Brian Pugh.

Pictured from left to right, are: Ray Martland, Stephen Rhodes, Stuart Shea.

Pictured from left to right, are: Stuart Boyd, Peter Alleb, Christopher Oversby, Tony Edden, Gordon Yates, Ray Martland, Alan Garnett, Stuart Shea, Alec Neilson, Eric Hart, Brian Haslem.

The brethren of Stretford with Trafford lodge.