Middleton Masonic Hall was the venue on Monday 7th September, not only for the Installation but the 150th Anniversary of the Lodge.

Following the opening of the Lodge, a Provincial Deputation of 30 entered along with the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Keith Partington Schofield GMRAC. After greetings andsalutations, the PGM went on to introduce his team and also to thank them for their support as this was one of his final visits as PGM. The assembled Brethren then welcomed the Assistant Grand Master, RWBro Raymond John Smith GMRAC who had made the trip from London for this special occasion.

The Installation ceremony took place with the Installing Master, WBro Peter McCarthy making a fine job of installing his successor as WM, WBro Arnold Ray (a Mark Mason for 25 years this year!). WBro Ray then went on to install his Officers of the year.

The Installation complete, the Assistant Grand Master, RWBro Smith rose to present the Sesquicentenary Warrant, marking the 150th Anniversary of this fine old Lodge (consecrated 10th February 1865).

Lodge Secretary WBro Carl Buckley then took us back in time to the reign of Queen Victoria and the formation of the Lodge which first met at the Spread Eagle Inn in Rochdale. He went on to present a brief history of the Lodge since then to the present day.

The Assistant Grand Master then retired from the Lodge, subsequently followed by the PGM and his retinue.

A total of 70 Brethren made their way downstairs for drinks and a fine meal to conclude what was a very enjoyable evening.

The Assistant Grand Master, RWBro Raymond John Smith GMRAC, the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Keith Partington Schofield and the Worshipful Master, WBro Arnold Ray PProvGSW