Somerset Brethren Dining Out in Style in Berkshire
On Wednesday the 25th October, 30 Brethren travelled up to Sindlesham Masonic Centre, Berkshire for the Installation meeting of the Gourmet Lodge No 10008
Our very own Brother Adrian Robson, Provincial Grand Almoner was installed into the chair within the Berkshire Temple in an excellent manor by Worshipful brother Bruce Mckenzie-Boyle.
The installation meeting was well attended by many brethren and was honoured by the presence of the Assistant Grand Master Bro David J Medlock (DL) who delivered the address to the Worshipful Master and also the Provincial Grand Master for Berkshire, Bro Anthony Howlett-Bolton OBE, who gave the address to the Brethren.
Following the installation ceremony the brethren were served an impressive festive board of Salmon and Crab Roulade, Truffle Oil infused Creamy Cauliflower Soup, Berkshire Venison Fillet with Berry and Wine Jus, with roasted root mash, celeriac puree, blackberries, apple and girolles. Caramel-caged citrus Bavarois and all complemented with Chateau Livran (2014) and Definition, a White Burgundy wine….
The caterers have to be congratulated, every course delivered by a great team. The venison was reported to be “The finest I have ever had the pleasure to try“, the Lodge living up to its name as the Gourmet Lodge.
The Worshipful Masters song was sung by Bro Chris Marchmont and the visitor’s response by Bro Steve Williams. Some customary and light-hearted banter between the Somerset and Berkshire Brethren continued throughout the evening, which included a fine rendition of the Wurzels song.. ‘I can drive a tractor’, to the bemusement of the Berkshire Masons.
All of the Somerset Brethren would like to extend a huge thank you to every Berkshire Mason present, who warmly welcomed and continually looked after their visitors with true Masonic warmth throughout the evening
Some of the Brethren had a day return in a minibus driven by Bro Tony Saunter, it is fair to say, the drive back to Somersetshire was far quieter than the drive up following the magnificent festive board, members appeared in deep contemplation.
An evening that will live long in the memory for all who had the pleasure to have attended. Please invite us again.
Steve Collin
Photographs by:
Ray Lloyd. Provincial Photographer, Berkshire
Les Pickersgill. Provincial Photographer, Somerset.
