The Northern Area Royal Arch Dinner took place at Nelson House, Burnley, on 10thMarch, 2018. The hall was full, with long tables set out to provide Ladies, Gentlemen, Brethren and Companions with ample opportunity to socialise with friends in a formal, yet relaxed environment.
If that was not enough, the support from rulers in both the Royal Arch and the Craft was exemplary. EComp Paul Rose, Deputy Grand Superintendent, VWBro Derek Nelson Thornhill, Deputy Provincial Grand Master and EComp Rev. David Halford, Third Provincial Grand Principal shared a table with EComp Brian Carter and EComp David Dunn, both APGPs. Elsewhere in the room WBro John Farrington, APGM, headed a large Cana contingent, which together with the adjacent table contained most of the membership of this wonderful Chapter.
Freshly made roast tomato and basil soup was followed by a tender and succulent chicken breast, with the usual accompaniments. A crème brulee, tea, coffee and mints rounded off a super meal. A table quiz was set for teams of four, the prize bottles of wine finding their way onto-you’ve guessed it-the Cana Table, with EComp Bob Summers and Comp Ian Duxbury and their Ladies being the happy recipients.
A short presentation on the Royal Arch was given in the Lodge Room by the Royal Arch District Officer, EComp Trevor Thomas, with no less than three Brethren subsequently showing an interest in joining the Supreme Degree.
Entertainment was provided by Scott Mac, a professional singer with a great voice, who managed to keep plenty of dancers on the floor for the whole evening. Our disco was provided by EComp Ian Salthouse, who once again gave his services freely to support the event.
While this dinner is primarily a social evening, to showcase the Royal Arch in Burnley and Pendle, a small surplus of £100.00 will be donated to ELMC at the next meeting of Cana Chapter. Here’s looking forward to the next one!