At the 2023 installation meeting of Derby Lodge No 724, in the presence of Assistant Provincial Grand Master Andrew Whittle, who was accompanied by Mersey Valley Group Vice Chairman John Gibbon, acting Provincial Grand Steward Keith Lindsay and Provincial Grand Standard Bearer Rick Winfield.
Stephen White was proclaimed WM of the lodge for a further year, as Stephen had agreed to do this to allow a little extra time for the lodge’s senior warden not to skip any rungs on the ladder. Albert Hogg provided the address to the wardens, Steve Williams the address to the deacons and Andrew Whittle the address to the brethren of the lodge.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Andrew rose to convey the thanks of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews who hoped that Stephen would have further enjoyable year in office.
Stephen then presented Andrew with a cheque for West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity for £300, which was gratefully received by Andrew who said that it would be faithfully applied and thanked the brethren of the lodge for their generosity.
After the third rising, the lodge director of ceremonies, Steve Williams, formed the procession to retire, and Andrew withdrew from the lodge. Although it was only a short ceremony the brethren enjoyed the evening and retired to the dining room to enjoy their meal.