On Tuesday, 14th December 2021, seven members of Athelstan Lodge travelled down to the Berkshire Masonic Centre at Sindlesham.

The occasion?

The Consecration of a new Lodge, Gourmet Lodge No 10008.

The reason?

Brother John Nixon, a member of Athelstan, was to be the Primus Master.

W Bro John moved to Berkshire many years ago and, in fact, became an Assistant Grand Master in that Province.

He has still retained his membership in Athelstan visiting regularly and will be receiving his 50-year Certificate at our meeting in February 2022.  So what better reason to support him and, what a fantastic day it was.

Right Worshipful Brother Anthony Charles Howlett-Bolton OBE, (below, seated, left) was the Consecrating Officer, ably assisted by Very Worshipful Brother Peter Sands, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master (below, seated, right).

A superb ceremony followed by the Installation of W Bro John and he then Installed his Officers in the new Lodge.

On to the Festive Board, and, as the name suggests, it really was a Gourmet meal; five courses and fine wine to supplement it.  Christmas carols and songs performed by the Sainsbury’s Singers rounded off a splendid occasion.

The Freemasons of Berkshire made all the visitors, from many parts of the country, very welcome, and I think it is fair to say everyone had a great day.