Over 30 members and guests joined Woolton Lodge of Unity No 1086, which incorporates Walton Lodge No 1086, Lodge of Prudence No 2114, Allerton Lodge No 6653 and Warbreck Lodge No 6976, for its installation ceremony. The master of the lodge Norman Pollock was unwell so was unable to attend and the ceremony was conducted by installing master Dave Moore.
Dave opened the lodge in each of the three degrees and the principal guest on the occasion, Andrew Barton who was representing the Provincial Grand Master was admitted, accompanied by Dave Withey, Steve Kayne and Mike Cunliffe. The installing master warmly welcomed Andrew who said he was pleased to be present and glad that he was not offered the gavel so that he could have an enjoyable evening. Salutations were offered to Andrew and then to David Newland who accepted the salutation on behalf of the Provincial grand officers present.
Dave adjourned the lodge to the second degree so that Steve Lynch could present the master elect Michael Christopher Daly who assented to the charges and took his obligation and was, in accordance with the normal manner, installed in the chair of King Solomon in what can only be described as a warn, sincere and heartfelt manner.
Michael appointed and invested his officers. The third degree working tools were presented by Steve Lynch; the second degree tools by a young Mason, Tom Smith and the first degree tools by Dave Moore, who also delivered the address to the master. The address to the wardens was given by Colin Cameron and Andrew Barton delivered the address to the brethren of the lodge.
After the installation work was completed, Andrew Barton rose to convey the congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master Tony Harrison and also wished the new master a happy and busy year. Andrew also congratulated Dave Moore for a fine performance, the brethren who presented the working tools and all who contributed to the ceremony.
Michael Daly presented Andrew with two cheques, the first to the value of £700 for the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity and a further £386 to the Friends of Tithebarn. On receiving them, Andrew thanked the lodge on behalf of the recipients.
Throughout the ceremony, Phil Marshall, a registered blind person, was accompanied by his guide dog Harvey who had sworn not to divulge the secrets of an installed master! With Phil was his brother-in-law John Donnelly who was to sing at the festive board but instead of receiving a stipend, agreed to a donation for Guide Dogs for the Blind. The lodge was closed in due form and the brethren retired to the dining room.
In response to the toast to his health, Andrew said he was delighted to be present and that it was an honour and pleasure to be the representative of Tony Harrison. Andrew was due to attend the lodge prior to the COVID pandemic striking and he hoped that the horrors of the last two years were coming to an end and that once again, Masons could freely enjoy their Masonry. Andrew congratulated the installing master for a job extremely well done and offered his personal congratulations to the new master.
The master’s song was sung by John Donnelly, accompanied by the brethren. As the saying goes ‘all good things must come to an end’ and after witnessing a solid installation ceremony, enjoying good food and company, the tyler proposed the last toast.
Story and pictures by Colin Roberts.