On Thursday 19th February the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, VW Bro Alex McLaren,P.G.J.O. was delighted to attend the Installation Meeting of Manchester Engineers Lodge at Bridge Street.

This was in fact the first time that the Deputy had attended the Lodge, in any capacity, simply because they meet on the same evening as his Mother Mark Lodge, Temperance, at Todmorden.

The first business of the Lodge, after the Deputy had entered, was to announce the passing of WBro Jack Levene, only a few days before the meeting.  WBro Levene was a much liked and highly respected Brother. He had been appointed to Grand Rank in the Mark Degree in June 2014 and was absolutely delighted with that honour.  He will be sadly missed by his many friends in Freemasonry.

The business of the evening proceeded and the WM, Bro John Porter, installed his successor, Bro Robert Frankl, in an impecabble manner, ably assisted by Officers of the Lodge and the Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, WBro Michael Porter (no relation!).  Michael also delivered the Address to the WM, in the absence of WBro Martin Caller who was unfortunately taken ill and could not attend the meeting.

At the conclusion of the meeting the Brethren retired to the Festive Board and judging by the chatter around the room, all were clearly enjoying the evening.