Monday 22nd January 2018 was the night when the Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Richard Olliver, GMRAC and all but three of his Provincial Officers attended Leopold Lodge Lodge of Mark Masters No. 235 on an official visit. As the PGM informed those present the last official visit to Leopold was on 31st January 2011 when RW Bro Peter Sands was PGM and he was Provincial Grand Secretary. On that evening W Bro Huw Hopkin was the Worshipful Master and he Advanced his brother Elwyn.
The evening saw another Advancement ceremony but this time it was Bro Russell Hoskin who was Advanced into Leopold Lodge by the Worshipful Master, W Bro Ray Duncan, The ceremony was conducted in a most sincere and theatrical manner by the Worshipful Master and the officers which added to the occasion.
On the same evening the PGM presented Mark Benevolent Fund collarettes to W Bro’s David Green (Vice Patron) and Colin Wills (Patron).
The Second Rising saw the PGM present the Provincial Travelling Keystone to the Worshipful Master asking him and as many of his Brethren to deliver it to Valentia Lodge of MMM No. 623 on Wednesday 28th February 2018. In his address he stated that it was his pleasure to present the Travelling Keystone in order that it may begin on its perpetual journey around the Mark Province of Berkshire. He went on to say that he trusted that this evening would begin to enhance the special bond of Fraternal Friendship, Fellowship & Goodwill between the Lodges and members in our Province when the Travelling Keystone is taken on its travels to the next Lodge.
All then retired to the Thames Room to a festive board of Smoked Haddock Gratin, Steak & Kidney Pudding Eton Mess or Cheese and Biscuits. The atmosphere was truly very special indeed with all in attendance enjoying each others company.
