WM of Triumph Lodge No 1061, Mike Boxall, hosted an outstanding ladies and gents social event at the Bedford Hotel in St Annes. The sun was shining and the brethren and their guests were in good spirits.
Everyone enjoyed a drink in the bar area and it was most pleasing to witness partners’, wives’ and guests’ eyes light up at seeing familiar faces and engage in cheerful conversation. It is clear that these social events do more than just raise money for charity. They are an opportunity for those who support Masonry in the background to step into the light and play an active role in the calendar.
When everyone was seated, the feast was served. With starters ranging from prawn and salmon salad, liver pâté and melon; the main course included roast beef, lamb or chicken dinner and for those cheeky enough to ask, an extra Yorkshire pudding or two. Desserts including pavlova, cheese and biscuits and a firm favourite; sticky toffee pudding, there really was something to cater for everyone’s taste.
As with all occasions though, the thoughts of helping others and raising money for charity are never far from the minds of all who attended. There was a healthy selection of prizes donated by the attending guests and this brought a level of excitement as Edward Rhodes drew the numbers for the raffle. The prizes were paraded by the ever-entertaining Peter Grihault who never fails to leave everyone with a smile on their face and guests were proud to do their bit for charity, whilst winning a cheeky prize or two.
William Buchanan Senior was first to pick a prize, with a full table to choose from, he settled on an Australian Shiraz, only to be disappointed in himself for missing his favourite tipple; the bottle of whisky on offer. The winners came in thick and fast and eventually, the main prize of a three-tier steamer was won by newlyweds William Buchanan and his wonderful wife, Laura. Laura was very pleased saying it will make a great addition to their household.
Once the raffle was completed, Mike Boxall gave a thoughtful speech. He began by thanking everybody for attending and then went on to give special thanks to Edward Rhodes for organising the event. This message was even more poignant as Mike gave a special mention to lodge almoner, Graham Smith. Graham’s wife, Denise, thanked the lodge for the flowers and support received, with special thanks to long-time and close friend, Edward Rhodes, who has been particularly supportive.
Mike also gave a shout out to the Lodge of Triumph’s 100 club. For £5 per month, people can pick a number, or more than one if they choose, of their choice if available. Each month a draw takes place and the first number drawn wins £50 and the second number drawn wins £25. Remaining numbers are available from Edward Rhodes.
Finally, Mike informed the guests that another social event is in the calendar; the Christmas Sunday lunch which will also be held at the Bedford Hotel in November. This is open to all and booking is recommended. The food is excellent and the company will be second-to-none. This will be another successful social event from Mike Boxall during his year as WM.
