Somerset Freemasons Invade The North

Thursday 27th March was a very special occasion for the Dalston Lodge No. 7132 – who meet in Dalston, Cumbria – and particularly for Brother Mike Redston who was installed in the Chair of King Solomon by his father Malcolm Redston of the Emergency Services Lodge, Taunton in the presence of Nick Wilson, Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Cumberland and Westmorland, attended by his Deputy, two Assistants and 24 other Officers of his Provincial team.

Mike was initiated into Prudence and Industry Lodge No.1953, Chard in January 2015 but after 4 years was taken to Cumbria with his work. Being a keen (and well trained by 1953) Mason, he soon joined the Dalston Lodge and worked his way up through the ranks to now become the Master of the Lodge. Such is his popularity, the Lodge was almost at its capacity with 82 in attendance including 31 other visitors.

Thirteen Somerset Masons and one Devonshire Mason, six of whom were at his Initiation, travelled up to support him, proving that Masonry really does provide lasting friendships. Representing the Somerset Province was the Master of Richard Huish Lodge plus two members, the Master of The Lodge of St George and 7 members of The Emergency Services Lodge. Greetings were given from 5 Somerset Lodges and one from Devon; Paul Dare of Prudence and Industry presented the 3rd Degree Working Tools.

Addressing the Lodge, Nick Wilson made mention of how he met Mike and had personally introduced him to the Province, to the point of joining the Dalston Lodge. He noted that Mike was a keen and frequent visitor to other Lodges and was delighted that so many visitors had returned the compliment to support the Dalston Lodge on this auspicious occasion. He also thanked Malcolm for supporting his son in his Masonry and congratulated him on being made an Honorary member of Dalston Lodge.

The Festive board was a joyous occasion and after the formal toasts, Ian Clift in his inimitable way presented the Nick Wilson with 3 litres of Somerset cider and a CD of The Wurzels to enjoy while he was drinking it. This was met with raucous laughter and Nick greeted and shook hands with the whole contingent. Pictured above (L-R): Nick Wilson, Mike Redston & Malcolm Redston

Report by: Malcolm Redston – Emergency Services Lodge, Taunton