St Helens Masonic Hall was the venue for the initiation of Paul Leggett into Hardshaw Lodge No 8722. Present to witness at the initiation ceremony were 23 members of Hardshaw Lodge and nine visitors.
The lodge was opened by the WM Darren Forshaw in the first degree and after completion of the approval of the lodge minutes he then welcomed Assistant Provincial Grand Master Andy Whittle into the lodge and offered him the gavel of the lodge as is his right. Andy took the gavel, thanked Darren for his warm welcome then quickly gave it back.
A ballot then took place which proved favourable for Paul Leggett who had on a previous occasion been proposed in open lodge, the ceremony commenced. Paul entered the lodge in due form and placed into the care of the junior deacon, Ryan Billington assisted by the acting senior deacon Jonathan Edwards who conducted Paul around the lodge in a very proficient and skilful manner.
After answering the necessary questions, the WM Darren then initiated Paul in a highly commendable manner. Richard Hughes presented and explained the working tools of an entered apprentice Freemason in fine style. Then to finish Paul’s initiation, Sandy Kean presented the charge after initiation with skill and exactitude.
At the festive board, Paul was welcomed into Freemasonry by Paul Brunskill who presented him with his welcome pack and brought the congratulations of the Mersey Valley Group Chairman John Murphy. When Paul was asked how he felt about the initiation ceremony, he said he was nervous at the start but thoroughly enjoyed his night.