Mark Ball 2015

The Mark Provincial Ball 2015

October the 24th saw the first Mark Provincial Ball for our new Provincial Grand Master, Keith Beardmore, and his lady June. It was however business (and pleasure!) as usual, with the venue being unchanged, at the Marriott hotel near Preston. Again, the event sold out very quickly, with 183 Mark Masons and guests all getting together with a true atmosphere of fun and enjoyment.

The Prov.GM Keith Beardmore and his lady June

Deputy Prov.GM Geoff Lee and Marion

With a new Prov.GM came a new organiser, but I must say that my wife Sandra and I are so very grateful to Paul and Sally Snape for all their guidance and help over the last year - they were deservedly presented with a nice bottle of champagne from Keith and June, in recognition of their hard work over many years of organising this Ball. Well done Geoff & Sally! As the new organising team, Sandra and I were so very touched at the kind way everyone helped us to get everything in place - there cannot be a more generous, forgiving and fun bunch of people for whom to organise a Ball. Thank you all!

Craft PrGM Tony Harrison & Maureen

Peter Connolly and Lynne

John & Jennifer Bicknell

Dave Emmerson and Julie with Barry Fisher & Eileen

Once the initial reception was complete, with Dave Emmerson and his team of Steve Walls, Arthur Robinson, Barry Fisher and Ken Boon guiding everyone to be welcomed by Keith and June, there was a small sigh of relief as all the tables were full, and no-one turned up without a place! The Marriott performed wonderfully, and the food was excellent. Provincial SW Andy Whittle not only said Grace and returned thanks, but also presented June with a lovely floral arrangement on behalf of us all. Keith Beardmore then welcomed us in a very humorous manner, and the dancing began, with Pyramid again treating us to a musical masterpiece.

Giles & Sandra Berkley can relax now!

Special Rep Eric Drinkwater with Tegwen

Special Rep Mike Winterbottom with Dot

Special Rep Graham Bailey with Dorothy

The dancing went on until midnight, with a full dance floor, and Mark friends enjoying barn dances and boogie in equal measure. It was lovely to see Peter Connolly and Lynne still supporting the event, with Tony Harrison and Maureen again coming to be with us.
The event is already booked for next year - Saturday October 22nd 2016 - put it in your diary, and we hope to see you all there again!