Vale of Avon Mark Master Masons No. 867 Installation

Last evening, the Vale of Avon Lodge of Mark Master Masons held its Installation Ceremony at the Brockenhurst Masonic Centre. There were a few absentees, but they missed an excellent meeting - and, more importantly, the rare sight of Brother David Hewitt becoming Worshipful Master without anyone demanding a recount.

We were fortunate to be joined by V.W. Bro. John Burrell, APGM, PGJO, who presented a Patrons Award, collarette and certificate to Bro. Ali Longworth in true Crackerjack style. No cabbages were awarded, but expectations were briefly raised.

We heard from the Almoner that our dear W. Bro. Norman Taylor is in hospital. We all send him our very best wishes and hope he is soon restored to health - and back among Brethren whose ritual is considerably more reliable than the electrical equipment. Read on…

A serious calamity then occurred during the ceremony. The organ, while being manhandled by yours truly, gave an impressive bang and has remained stubbornly silent ever since – not the first time an organist has been upstaged by the organ. The instrument is a Yamaha AR100, first produced in 1996 at a cost of around £25,000. At 30 years old it may be considered positively youthful in Masonic terms, but electronic components apparently do not enjoy the same life expectancy as Past Masters.

After the previous kerfuffle, I shall not be involving myself in repairs or replacement; that decision now rests safely in the hands of the Management of the BMC. Until then, it appears I am redundant - although, unlike the organ, I can still make a noise when required.