On the evening of Thursday November 2nd, Fidelity and Crusaders Lodge No. 269 hosted the fifth and final White Table event of 2017 on behalf of Blackburn Masonic Hall. Twenty Non-Masons assembled at the hall, and were welcomed by all the Brethren before being shown how a Mason prepares for a meeting and the importance of the Tyler’s book as a historical reference going back through the history of the Lodge. Once they were escorted into the Lodge they welcomed by District Chairman WBro David Lightbown PAGDC before witnessing a presentation given by WBro David Gill and WBro Steve Crowther who explained Freemasonry by linking the ancient to modern day life, after which they retired from the Lodge to a very active and positive question and answer session.
The festive board was a wonderful occasion with the full round of Masonic toasts and responses. WBro John Farrington PSGD Assistant Provincial Grand Master, made reference to the end of the Tercentenary Celebrations and thanked the Brethren for supporting the events. He also had a very pleasant duty to perform by paying tribute to the outgoing District Chairman, WBro David Lightbown by presenting him with a personal gift. WBro Lightbown in his response thanked all the Lodge Membership Officers for their help in organising the White Table Events, he also presented WBro Steve Crowther with an excellent bottle of whisky and welcomed him back after his recent illness. He concluded by saying how proud he had been to have this event as his final formal duty especially as it was in his own Lodge and with his son present, making it extra special.
A very well run raffle raised over £200 which was immediately presented to WBro Farrington as a donation to the ELMC. The evening ended with all agreeing that this was not only a very successful event but also a wonderful social event enjoyed by all.
Over the five White Table Events, one held in each Masonic Hall, there have been a number of Non-Masons, the actual statistics are:
Mill House – 42 attended, 6 Non Masons
Darwen – 45 attended, 7 Non Masons
Accrington – 78 Attended – 11 Non Masons
Clitheroe – 58 Attended, – 12 Non Masons
Blackburn – 59 Attended – 18 Non Masons
54 Non Masons have had exposure to Freemasonry
12 already progressing with membership or joined District Lodges, more expected following the Blackburn event.
The APGM & District Chairman supported every event.

Report Author and Photographs: East Ribble District Team