The Lodge Of St George Celebrates St George’s Day

The Lodge of St George celebrated their legendary namesake with a family luncheon at the Taunton Masonic Hall on Sunday 27th April. This celebration of England’s patron saint was the first in very many years that the lodge had actually held such an event; Ray Baines – who became a joining member of the lodge some 14 years ago after moving to Somerset – could never understand why the lodge failed to celebrate the date!

It was therefore agreed that the lodge should right that wrong and hold a luncheon on the closest Sunday. Ray agreed to lead the team to organise the event and on the day 68 people attended the lunch, with wives, partners, guests and 6 children. The hall’s sherry room and dining room were fully decked out with appropriate bunting and flags. After the reception drinks all moved to the dining room, where the Worshipful Master Vern Whereat welcomed everyone. Amongst the guests were Provincial Grand Master Ray Guthrie and his wife Hazel, John and Lin Winston and Geoff and Sally Dolling.

There were many colourfully dressed brethren, probably the most outstanding being Neal and Claire Hansley. The full Union Jack suit and dress were both outstanding (spot them in the photos – no prize) . As an aside, Claire will have to wrap up in something warmer for her forthcoming charity wing-walk up at Dunkerswell in early May: the Lodge wishes her all the best for her endeavour. A raffle afterwards raised £400, the proceeds going towards the Master’s chosen charity for this year, which is the ‘Speed of Sight’ organisation, which gives blind and disabled persons an off- road driving experience. Being a driving instructor himself and a keen motor sports fan, it’s a charity close to Vern’s heart.

After lunch, all present were invited to join in and sing some patriotic songs – it really gave The Last Night Of The Proms a run for its money! All present agreed it had been a wonderful event, with excellent food, wine and banter. Ray promised to organise a similar event in 2026. Thanks to all who attended and supported the Lodge Of St George.

Report by: Rod Green – Lodge Of St George