November 2013

A splendid evening was enjoyed at a packed Masonic Hall at Raby Road, Hartlepool on Monday 18th November, when the Provincial Grand Master, Norman Eric Heaviside led a full team deputation of 33 Provincial officers to Harte Lodge No4217 to mark not only the occasion of a Second Degree ceremony but the opening of the recently refurbished 'AVenue' ballroom and banqueting facilities.

The Lodge was opened in due form by the Acting Worshipful Master, Duncan Maw who has done such a fantastic job over the last few months when the current Worshipful Master has been taken away through work commitments. The Provincial Director of Ceremony team then expertly processed the full deputation in to the Lodge room and the usual Salutation was given, the Brethren were treated to a first class Second Degree ceremony, carried out with distinction and pride by all who took part. Afterwards the Brethren totalling 107 were treated to excellent hospitality including a sumptuous Carvery meal, which although unusual at a Masonic meeting was received extremely well amongst the new surroundings.

The usual toasts were given, after which the PGM Norman Eric Heaviside in response to his own toast praised the forward-looking Masons of Hartlepool for their vision, determination and splendid endeavours to modernise the Masonic centre and provide a sound foundation for the future

Michael Graham, whilst responding to the toast to the Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham praised the excellent organisation of the meeting and thanked all those who had helped to make the event so special for their hard work. He also congratulated the candidate, Robert Durrand for his conduct through passing to the Second Degree and pointed out the fantastic work carried out by the Lodge's Senior Deacon, Joseph Dunn during the ceremony.

It is clear by the quality of the evening that Hartlepool Masons really do have their finger on the pulse at the moment, the aVenue facilities will certainly become an attraction for further Masonic and private events. Well done to the forward thinking Brethren who did not see an empty ballroom but instead saw an opportunity

View more pictures of the visit here

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