I have a soft spot for Middleton (or “Miggeh” as it’s known to locals) – I went to Grammar School there. Each time I go, memories of my teenage years come flooding back – the school Dentist on the Langley Estate “Anasthetic !!? For a filling !!? Yer on Langleh now lad, open !” – that iconic pub Ye Olde Boars Head – or the sixth form common room as we called it. Happy days…and only twenty years (or so) ago…

Anyway, I digress.
Middleton Masonic Hall is one of those modern places specifically designed for Masonry, good sized Lodge Room, large bar area with ample seating, delightful garden area at the back and a spacious dining room. And it was there that around 60 of the Brethren and their Ladies gathered for the latest event in the Mark Calendar – the Reception for  the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Officers, Grand and Provincial who were appointed and promoted in 2014. Pre-lunch drinks were enjoyed by all followed by an extremely convivial meal which was  up to Middleton’s usual high standards; the room positively buzzed with chatter and laughter throughout.

After coffee, the Provincial Grand Master RWBro Keith Partington Schofield GMRAC rose and congratulated all on their promotions and their support and contributions to another successful year for the Province. He went on to say how enjoyable the day had been and  reminded everyone of the next Provincial event – the Duck Race at Sawley, organised by our Provincial Grand Charity Steward Stephen Lord and encouraged everyone to journey North to the wild lands around Clitheroe.

The afternoon continued in the bar, ended with the usual goodbyes and the happy smiling faces made their way home.