NOEL’S NIGHT OF SURPRISES

First time Master, Rev Noel Colley and an Installation full of pleasant surprises which were all very fitting for such a dedicated mason.

Noel became a mason in Leicestershire within Beacon Lodge No 5208 in 2018. He relocated to Chipping in 2022 and he became a joining member of Preston Guild Lodge where he threw himself into the deep end as a Deacon. Noel quickly became a driving force in the Lodge. So, the Lodge wanted to give him a special night to remember being the first new Master for a few years.

Many visitors from near and afar joined the celebration, most especially his son, Jamie, who is a member of Leopold Lodge No 1760 in Scarborough. Also travelling some distance was Noels great friend, Arran Brudenell Provincial Junior Grand Deacon of the Province of Leicestershire and Rutland. A fine array of Grand Officers led by PGL Honorary Member and Past Assistant PGM, Peter Lockett also made the night very special.

The Installation Ceremony was performed with dignity and sincerity by the outgoing Master, David Parker Jnr. After being installed into the Chair, Noel was moved by his son presenting the Third Degree Working Tools. It was a special moment as Jamie only became a Master Mason very recently. It was fitting that Jamie played some part in his Dad’s Installation. Noel was surprised to see his good friend Simon Hore stand up to deliver the address to the Master. This had been hidden from Noel as in practices the job was down to another member of the lodge.

As the ceremony came to a close, Peter Lockett, who was representing the PGM delivered the Address to the Brethren after which he brought the greetings and congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master. Noel responded by presenting Charity Payments totalling £4000. There were cheques for £1000 each to Barnardo’s Young Carers, Preston Sea Cadets and Ride2Success. Another £1000 is being provided in groceries to the Intact Centre Foodbank.

Everyone then retired to a very lively Festive Board where a few more surprises awaited Noel. After a very pleasant meal and the regular toasts we arrived at the Toast to the Master. On paper this was assigned to Noel’s proposer, David Parker Snr. However Senior explained that there was a far better qualified Brother in the room and promptly deferred to Noel’s son Jamie. This was followed by an excellent rendition of The Master Song by Brian Flynn accompanied by Doug Little on the piano.

The lodge hopes that it gave Noel a night to remember and hopes he has a wonderful year as Master of Preston Guild Lodge.