RPL 291 welcome Lewis and Athelstan Lodge

At their recent meeting the Rural Philanthropic Lodge were pleased to Initiate Mr Lewis Coombes, a good friend of another one of their members Warren Beavis, who had the pleasure of leading him around as the acting JD on the night. Lewis had been very patient waiting nearly a year to join, but said he had a fantastic night.

They also welcomed 8 members from the Athelstan Lodge on the Occasion of their Fraternal visit – the first time this has happened in the history of both Lodges, because they usually meet on the same first Friday of every month. However this year due to Easter they had arranged for different dates, so the visit could take place. The reason this was so special, is because Steve Poland of Athelstan (Prov Membership Officer) and Ian Evans of Rural Philanthropic Lodge have known each other and been friends for over 20 years having worked together and set up a business with three other people in 2012.

RPL will be returning the visit in September to witness the Installation of the new Master at Athelstan Lodge.

Also three members of a Lodge in Oxford paid their annual visit as they really enjoy coming to Burnham on Sea, booking a hotel for the night and thoroughly enjoying themselves.

The meeting also saw Simon Orchard MBE receive his Grand Lodge Certificate, presented by Ian Evans (who brushed up his words from his active PrJGW days) Simon is a keen Mason and is really enjoying his time at RPL.

With over 42 dining, the evening was rounded off in the usual Burnham way with friendship and fun and an excellent meal, cooked by the ever hard working John Chinn.

The next meeting is on Friday 1st May where they will be conducting a Raising and welcoming the members of the Admiral Blake on the occasion of their annual Fraternal visit.