On Thursday 12th March 2020 Lodge of Faith No 344 celebrated the 50th Golden Jubilee for a very special member of the lodge.
WBro Roy Fairhurst having been initiated into Freemasonry in 1970, is one of the most iconic members of Lodge of Faith and the evening was certainly a night to remember.
The Lodge tyled at 6.30pm

Bro P Twiss the current Worshipful Master of Lodge of Faith No 344, opened the Lodge after which the Provincial Deputation entered the Lodge. The Worshipful Master offered the gavel to the Assistant Provincial Grand Master WBro John A Griffin PSGD, which he graciously accepted before occupying the chair to conduct the Golden Jubilee celebration of WBro Roy Fairhurst.
The Lodge room was full, with members from many other Lodges in attendance, a real mark of the man of the moment.
The Assistant Provincial Grand Master delivered a fitting tribute to WBro Fairhurst, for his many years of service to Freemasonry, it was clear to see by everyone present that Roy Fairhurst had the respect of everyone in the Lodge room, his attention to detail was impeccable, and he liked to lead the Lodge by example to his very high standards.
WBro Paul Easterbrook then read out the minutes of the meeting in 1970 when Roy was initiated into Freemasonry, before going on to deliver a very personal, in depth, tribute to Roy. It was clear to see that they had both known each other in Freemasonry for a long time, and they had formed a real bond of friendship, and a lot of respect together over the many years.
The 50th Golden Jubilee Illuminated Certificate was then read out by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master before being presented to Roy.

WBro Fairhurst having travelled up from London to celebrate his father’s 50th, then presented his Dad with a special 50th Anniversary lapel badge. It was an extra special personal moment for this extra special occasion.
WBro Fairhurt was then escorted around the lodge, by the Deputy Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, WBro Phil Collier, to the acclamation of all the brethren.

The Worshipful Master then presented the Assistant Provincial Grand Master with a cheque, on behalf of the members of the lodge, to the ELMC to mark the 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, everyone present was treated to a fabulous 5 course meal.
The formal toast to WBro Fairhurst’s health was proposed by WBro James A Smith, in a very personal manner and was received with warmth.
WBro Fairhurst responded in a most suitable manner, at the conclusion of which he received a standing ovation by all present.
Several presentations took place to mark this special occasion.
A fantastic evening was had by all, the presence of Roy’s son gave the celebration a real personal touch, it was certainly one which Lodge of Faith No. 344 can be justly proud of for many years to come.

Report and Pictures by Craig Hindle