The grand Cloister Suite of the Holiday Inn, Bolton, was unrecognisable. Twinkling fairy lights draped across the ceilings, glittering centrepieces adorned every table, and a warm hum of excitement filled the air. The annual Tie and Tinsel Dinner was a festive gala that brought together 200 Freemasons from East Lancashire, all united by a common goal: raising funds for the 2026 Festival.
RW PGM Robert Frankl and his wife Fiona, our Provincial Grand Master, welcomed the guests at the entrance. As everyone arrived at the main hall, the doors to the suite opened, revealing a spectacularly decorated space, the perfect backdrop for an evening of camaraderie and celebration.
The first to take the stage was the acclaimed Rock Choir. Their harmonies soared through the room, spreading a palpable energy with guests tapping their feet and swaying in their seats. Their performance perfectly blended nostalgia and cheer, from classic rock ballads to festive anthems.
The Rock Choir performed a magnificent show as everyone arrived at a melodic feast.
The evening began with a welcome from the Provincial Grand Master RW Robert Frankl, followed by the Festival Chairman Wbro Chad Northcott, who wanted to thank those who arrived and gave special thanks to Susan O’Neill and Julie Ward, who had made the arrangements for the night’s festivities and Stephen Thomson who led the Festival Fundraising Committee.
Chad Northcott kicked off the evening’s proceedings, thanking the evening organisers.
Following the initial speeches, a sumptuous three-course meal, each dish a masterpiece of festive flavours. The stage lights dimmed as dessert plates were cleared, and the entertainment began.
Next came the enchanting Katie Fiddlestix, her violin as much a performer as she was. She wove magic with her bow, transitioning seamlessly from stirring classical pieces to lively folk tunes that had everyone clapping along. Her rendition of ” Winter Wonderland” was exceptionally breathtaking, earning her a standing ovation.
Katie Fiddlesitx gave a fantastic performance during the meal.
The evening reached a fever pitch with the arrival of The Jersey Coasters. Dressed in sharp suits and exuding charisma, they brought the spirit of the Jersey Shore to Bolton. Hits like “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Sherri” had everyone on their feet, dancing and singing along. The dance floor became a sea of joyous motion, proving once again the power of music to unite and uplift.
The Jersey Coasters had everyone dancing into the late hours.
While the entertainment took centre stage, the silent auction and raffle provided moments of anticipation and generosity. Items up for grabs ranged from sports & TV memorabilia, masonic art, dining vouchers and fancy goods, with every bid bringing the festival’s fundraising goal closer. The raffle was equally thrilling, with prizes and attendees eagerly clutching their tickets, hoping their numbers would be called.
As the night drew to a close, The Provincial DC took to the stage to thank everyone for their contributions and announce the evening’s fundraising total, which was £2500, a remarkable sum that left the room with pride.
The Tie and Tinsel Dinner wasn’t just an event; it was a celebration of community, charity, and the enduring spirit of Freemasonry. As guests reluctantly made their way home, their hearts were full, their spirits high, and their ties perhaps a little looser, knowing they had been part of something exceptional.