Surprise for Colin

In an emotional evening at the Ormskirk Masonic Hall, Colin Brereton was installed into the chair of King Solomon by his father-in-law Alan Findlay.

Alan congratulates son-in-law Colin.

The WM Ted Dickinson and the brethren of Lodge of Harmony No 580 had concealed and plotted to spring this surprise on Colin. It was evident from the expression on Colin’s face he was unaware of the change of installing master and was truly delighted.  

The lodge was honoured by the presence of Peter Levick (Chairman of the Bootle Group of Lodges) representative of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master. Peter was accompanied by Roy Worthington and Stephen Brereton (Vice Chairman of the Ormskirk and District Group of Lodges and Chapters) and other Provincial Grand Officers.

Alan proudly conducted the ceremony with warmth and sincerity which was echoed by the installation team; Ray Collins occupying the senior wardens chair, Peter Fell as junior warden and David Williams as inner guard under the expert guidance of Rob Hales DC.

The working tools of an installed master seldom orated at an installation ceremony were flawlessly presented by David Williams. The third degree tools were explained by Rob Hales, Alan Browne faultlessly delivered the second degree the long way, and Ed Critchley admirably completed with a rendition of the tools of the first degree.

Peter eloquently presented the address to the brethren with great warmth and the end of the ceremony offered Colin his personal congratulations and praised the hard work of the installing team.

Ted, newly installed as IPM, had the pleasant duty of presenting Peter with four cheques to the value of £1,000 which included £350 to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, £250 to the British Legion Poppy Appeal, £250 to Macmillan Cancer Support and £150 to The Friends of Tithebarn. Peter thanked the brethren for their generosity on behalf of the worthy recipients.

After the ceremony 43 brethren retired to enjoy a hearty meal at the festive board which concluded a most memorable evening.

Pictured from left to right, are: Peter Levick, Alan Findlay, Colin Brereton, Ted Dickinson and Stephen Brereton.