Eccles Lodge Installation |
|
| Eccles is always a superbly friendly destination down there just next to Manchester. Well worth a trip, especially when the occasion is the Installation ceremony of Eccles Lodge. The welcome was superb - Graham Bailey G Std B this year, was there to greet me as I arrived, representing the PGM again, and extremely honoured to do so. The members started to trickle in, and congregated in the bar, where the famous Eccles buzz was already in attendance. Everyone was there to enjoy themselves! | |
 |
 |
Alan Perks, Lodge Tyler soon to be Pr G Steward |
Giles, with Special Reps - designate Graham Bailey, |
retiring Chris McNab |
|
| The ceremony was nothing short of spectacular - the Lodge and every visitor was so impressed with not only the ritual, but the great atmosphere in the Lodge. Robert Allman installed his successor John Cash in fine style, and had obviously put a lot of work into his preparation. Peter Burrows explained the keystone, Brian Lawrence did the Tools, Sandy Winnett addressed the WM, Chris McNab addressed the Wardens, Alan Perks the Overseers, and I was honoured to address the Brethren. | |
 |
 |
| Graham, Chris & Giles, WM John Cash, | John Cash was installed superbly by Robert Allman |
IPM Bob Allman, Ian Edge & Sandy Winnett |
|
| The festive board was attended by 24 brethren, with a lovely square pattern for the tables, which proved very sociable. The usual wine-takings and toasts were taken, punctuated by a really fond farewell to Chris McNab, who is retiring from his role as Special Representative after 9 years in office. Chris is moving to Lytham St. Annes to enjoy his retirement, with plenty of holidays planned. He did however stress that he will be back to visit, being only an hour away. Chris is handing over to Graham Bailey who takes over after Provincial Grand Lodge at Southport on May 7th. | |
 |
|
Eccles Lodge - proud of their new WM! |
|
| John Cash, the new WM thanked all the members for helping him get to the Chair, and mentioned Sandy Winnett in particular, who is stepping down as secretary after 22 years of sterling service! He is however only stepping down as far as Assistant Secretary.......so he will still be helping. In a brief response, Sandy thanked Chris McNab for his wonderful attendance over the years, for which the Lodge has been truly thankful. | |
 |
 |
DC Gordon Atkinson, |
Secretary Sandy Winnett retires as secretary |
proud to soon be P Pr G Sword Bearer. |
after 22 years! |
| The Lodge was absolutely delighted when the representing officer (me) won the raffle.....a little embarrassing, especially as I was sat next to Chris McNab when he computed it! All's well that ends well. We all left the hall feeling very lucky to have been among good friends, who were all there to enjoy themselves. Thank you Eccles! |
|
 |
 |
Ian Edge does a great raffle - |
Chris McNab accepts the thanks of the Lodge |
and a great job as Treasurer |
|
| Words and pictures by Giles Berkley | |
