Semper Fidelis Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 880
 
Thursday 10th September 2026, The Masonic Hall, The Esplanade, Fleetwood.
The Worshipful Commander, Bro. Bob Stafford, welcomed everybody; 13 members and guests, and duly opened the Lodge. A number of members were unable to make the meeting and sent apologies.
WBro. Harry Cox was in attendance and looking well after his recent health scares.
The Commander worked through the summons with expediency up to the ballot for Bro. Keith Critchley Carter, which proved in favour and Bro. Carter was duly elevated by the Commander and his shipmates; notably WBro. David Kenworthy acting as SD who took that candidate around and Bro. Paul Smedley SW, who explained the steps. The Commander explained the tools in fine form.
Bro. Paul Smedley was then declared as Worshipful Commander for the ensuing year and W. Bro. Harry Cox as treasurer. Both responded with thanks.
The Lodge was duly closed and the members and visitors retired to the bar and onto an excellent buffet organised in his usual efficient manner by WBro. Jimmy Rogers.
Bro. Smedley ran a Fleetwood fiddle raffle and raised £90 for Charity!
A gentle return to the new season was enjoyed by all.
 
Words and pictures by Tony Cross