Emergency Services Treat For Burns Night

There was no need to panic on the 26th January, as Emergency Services 9391 had everything under control at Taunton Masonic Hall for their 125th regular meeting. A packed evening started with the passing of two 9391 brethren (Simon Pidgeon and Khristian Gibson-Solano) to the 2nd degree of Fellowcrafts, with Ian Clift giving an excellent rendition of the 2nd degree tracing board. Then a large contingent from the Lodge of Fidelity and Sincerity 1966 from Wellington, lead by Matt Layzell, presented the Travelling Trowel to Graeme Clark. The Trowel is one of the 5 region-based emblematic tools that is passed from one Craft Lodge to another in a set formal programme; this encourages Lodge members to visit different Lodges in their region (South West in this case) and spread friendship and make new acquaintances.

The evening continued onwards in the dining room with a Burns night tribute, with Taunton resident culinary magician Karen Dingle and her team providing a fitting Scottish menu. The haggis was piped into the dining room with due reverence and then Chris Marchmont gave the traditional address to the haggis in fine style.

With 37 visiting brethren, 3 Grand Officers, 7 current Masters In Office and the lodge members all vying for something to take home, the raffle raised a superb £310, plus £55 from a whiskey draw, which will go towards the 9391 Master’s Charity Fund, to be donated at the end of his year in office. These charities are the RNLI and Escapeline, which is committed to the prevention of child exploitation across the South West of England.

Another hugely enjoyable evening in Taunton, with fund raising and friendship both in abundance.

Article by: Chris Fletcher-Price 9391 Lodge Comms Officer

Posted by: Ed Richings ACO (SW)