On Monday 8t h November 2021 Grants Lodge No 8825 celebrated the 75th Diamond Jubilee for a very special member of the lodge.
WBro George Cattanach, is one of the iconic members of Grants Lodge and Monday evening was certainly a night to remember. The Lodge tyled at 6.30pm
WBro Stuart Corless the current Worshipful Master of Grants Lodge No 8825, opened the Lodge after which the Provincial Deputation entered the Lodge. The Worshipful Master offered the gavel to the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, VWBro John Farrington PGSwdB, which he graciously accepted before occupying the chair to conduct this Diamond Jubilee celebration.
The Lodge room was full, with members from many other Lodges in attendance, a real mark of the man of the moment.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master delivered a fitting tribute to George for his many many years of service to Freemasonry, it was clear to see the moment was very personal and over the years they had become personal friends.
WBro Colin Smith then delivered a very personal, in depth, tribute to George. It was clear to see that they had both known each other outside of Freemasonry, as well as in it, and that they had formed a real bond of friendship together over many years.
The 75th Diamond Jubilee Illuminated Certificate was then read out before being presented to George by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master.
George was then escorted around the lodge by the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies WBro John Curry, to the acclamation of all the brethren
The Worshipful Master presented the Deputy Provincial Grand Master with a cheque, on behalf of the members of the lodge, towards the new Festival.
This was followed by George presenting his own personal cheque to the ELMC to mark the special occasion.
The deputation retired and the Worshipful Master concluded the lodge business.
The social board was a very happy and joyous occasion, the dining room was full with a most fabulous atmosphere, and everyone present was treated to a fabulous 5 course meal which included Scotch Pie.
The formal toast to George’s health was proposed by WBro Steve Barton, in a very personal manner and was received with warmth. Several presentations took place to mark this special occasion including a book on George’s life.
George responded in a most suitable manner, at the conclusion of which he received a standing ovation by all present.
A fantastic evening was had by all, the celebration had a real personal touch. It was certainly one which Grants Lodge can be justly proud of for many years to come.
Report and Pictures by Craig Hindle