Page 6 - Essex Mason Issue 85

Provincial

Surprise Sir Prize

ast and present members of the Provincial Executive
Pturned out in force on Saturday October 7th for a surprise
visit to Tollesbury Lodge to honour the PGM, R.W.Bro Rodney
Bass who was celebrating 40 years in Freemasonry.
Led by the Provincial DC W.Bro Lee Taylor, the 16 member
delegation requested entry after the opening, to the total
amazement of the PGM who thought he would only be
attending a working meeting of his Mother Lodge.

With almost military style precision, planned months in advance by Deputy PGM V.W.Bro Paul
Reeves, the Executive gathered in nearby side roads prior to the meeting to ensure total surprise.
On a need to know basis only a few selected members of Tollesbury Lodge were let into the
“plot” for maximum impact.
As the delegation entered the Lodge the PGM was heard to exclaim “I hope they are all paying
for their own meals” as he realised that his 40 year celebration had suddenly turned into
something a little bigger, but was clearly delighted with the visit.

To mark the occasion Executive members had contributed to a present for the PGM of a glass
cut bowl and binoculars which was presented by the Deputy to mark his 40 years and his 73rd
birthday due the following Monday.

The celebration continued
into the Festive Board where
there was one last surprise –
a massive cake for a double
celebration.

Round Table Lodge of Essex 8217

he Round Table Lodge of Essex celebrated their Golden
TJubilee year on the 26th September 2018 at the Hutton
Masonic Centre. Over 80 Brethren including six past and present
APGM's and one PPGM had a very enjoyable evening in the
temple and at the festive board.
R.W.Bro. Col. Sir Neil Thorne gave
a very interesting talk on, 'The past
and future of Freemasonry beyond
the Golden Jubilee of the Round
Table Lodge'. Our Worshipful Master,
W.Bro. Alan Harvey, took us on a
walk down memory lane, where we
looked back over the past 50 years
in the Lodge and the outside world.
At the festive board, the Brethren
were entertained by W.Bro. Miki
Travis (Chelsea Lodge), who had the
audience in fits of laughter.
The Lodge had the great pleasure
of presenting a cheque to W.Bro.
Tony White for the sum of £1000
towards the Festival 2022 appeal
and a donation was made towards
Sir Neil's chosen charity, Children in
Distress. Thanks to all our guests for
helping us celebrate a great evening
and a special thanks to Sir Neil
Thorne (PPGM) and to W.Bro. Tony
White (APGM).

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