On Tuesday evening, 27 January, W. Bro Craig Oates and the members of Eland Mark Lodge No. 493 held their annual Burns Night in celebration of the life and works of the Scottish poet and lyricist, Robert Burns.
This event has proved increasingly successful in recent years, and this year’s gathering demonstrated its growing popularity, with attendance rising to over 60 people. The evening was enjoyed by wives, family members, friends, and non-Masons, all coming together to support W. Bro Craig and the members of Eland Lodge. Among the guests were the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, J. Trevor Bolton, accompanied by his wife Pamela.
It was a pleasure to see the room so full, with happy faces and a real sense of anticipation for the evening ahead. While guests were gathering downstairs, a short Lodge meeting was held upstairs.
W. Bro Craig warmly welcomed R.W. Bro Trevor and the assembled brethren. During the meeting, a short eulogy was delivered by W. Bro Andrew J. Brown, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, in remembrance of Pro Grand Master John H. Prizeman, Past Provincial Grand Master R.W. Brian M. Batty, and Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master R.W. Alan Oldfield, after which a moment of silence was observed.
Before the meeting concluded, R.W. Bro Trevor requested that a visiting brother, W. Bro Kelsall Nunn of Dartmouth Lodge No. 545, be presented to him. This was duly carried out by W. Bro Clive Hawkins. Clearly unaware of what was about to take place, W. Bro Kelsall was visibly surprised and momentarily lost for words when the Provincial Grand Master presented him with the Provincial Grand Master’s Distinguished Service Award, in recognition of his many years of dedicated service to the Province in the Mark Order. Congratulations to W. Bro Kelsall on this well-deserved honour.
With the Lodge business concluded, it was time to join the guests at the festive board for the main celebration of the evening. A fine meal was enjoyed, accompanied by a traditional wee dram of Scotch whisky.
The evening began with W. Bro Andy Fairbairn ceremonially parading in the haggis, minus a piper, though Bro Spotify admirably filled the gap. His delivery of the traditional Address to the Haggis was excellent. Following the meal, W. Bro Craig proposed the Toast to the Lasses, with a witty and engaging response given by his partner, Liz, resulting in plenty of laughter around the room.
This was followed by a traditional sing-along, featuring well-known favourites, before concluding with Auld Lang Syne.
W. Bro Craig thanked all those who took part in readings of Robert Burns’ well-known poems, W. Bro Howard Seed for the excellent table decorations, and W. Bro Stephen Bray for ensuring the evening ran smoothly.
Congratulations to W. Bro Craig Oates and the members of Eland Mark Lodge No. 493 for organising such a memorable and enjoyable event. Roll on next year.
W. Bro John M. Fitzpatrick
Prov.G.M.O