Happy 60th Birthday Tynte Lodge!

Birthday cake, balloons and yes, faggots (!) always make for a good birthday party and this was to be no exception on the 21st November for Tynte Lodge 7994 to celebrate their 60th birthday in Bridgwater. Traditionally, November is their ‘charity Festive Board evening’ where the brethren source, prepare and cook the three-course meal themselves, following a normal lodge meeting. Having two first class butchers in their lodge helps, as they provide the faggots and sausages (the traditional menu) every year, with the starter, cheese & biscuits and pudding being provided by the brethren. It is all run by two brethren chefs Tony Saunter and Paul Binding, both ably supported/supervised by 3 ladies of the lodge.

Tynte also make it a fraternity meeting and invite brethren from The Lodge of Perpetual Friendship 135 & Admiral Blake Lodge 4692. It was wonderful that the Worshipful Master of Somerset Military Lodge 10021, Mike Parnell was also able to join them, with the SML being ‘based’ in Bridgwater but meeting in various locations throughout the Province. Assistant Provincial Grand Master Tony Guthrie was also present to celebrate the special evening and to present Bro Paul Knight with his Grand Lodge Certificate. The meeting was exceptional and saw the passing ceremony for Bro Richard Joseph, which was carried out in fine form by the Worshipful Master and his Officers.

Tynte Worshipful Master Peter James invited Michael Needs to cut the Birthday Cake. Peter then told the brethren: “It was a great evening celebrating the Lodge’s 60th birthday, and as Master of the Lodge I am extremely proud to be the Worshipful Master during this time. With new candidates coming through, it is imperative, for the future of the lodge, that they and other junior members pick up the reins. As it is stated in the Charge to the Initiate on their entry in Freemasonry: To make a daily advancement in Masonic Knowledge”.

Article and Images by: Bro Les Pickersgill – Tynte Comms Officer & Prov Photographer