Blackpool Group of Lodges
Blackpool Masons Rise to he Swirl of the Kilt.
Again the Blackpool masons, family and friends turned out in their numbers to celebrate Burns Night.
The Masonic Hall, Adelaide Street, Blackpool opened its doors to what has now become a popular annual event, to celebrate the famous Scottish poet, Robbie Burns. This was now the 5th year that Ian Jackson a member of Tranquillity Lodge No. 6544 and his wife Sue have organised a celebratory Burns Night at the hall.
After receiving a complimentary glass of whisky the guests were escorted into the main dinning room. Then, when everyone was seated, the Haggis was piped in. This was carried out in a grand style befitting this special occasion. The piper, Barry Mc Queen who is also a Blackpool mason and a member of Symphony Lodge No. 4924, gave an excellent rendition of the “Address to the Haggis”, and then returned at the end of the meal to give the guests a potted history of the Scottish Bard, concluding with a recitation of some of Burns’s most famous poems.
Barry is a very busy Blackpool mason, not only having appeared on television and radio he is also the Official Blackpool Town Crier. On top of that he is a guide to the famous Blackpool Tower, showing visitors some of the little known nooks and crannies with an explanation of the Towers fascinating history. Ian said in conclusion,”I must pass on very special thanks not only to my wife Sue but also to Peter Lewis, the Masonic Hall, Steward and his partner Pauline, who without their help, advice and enthusiasm this evening would not take off”. “We have raised over the past few years a total of over £3000 of which local charities have benefited and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support and generosity”.
The meal was ended with what has become known as the “Westhoughton Raffle”, The Prize, a very good malt whisky, raised another £130 which went towards the charity, which on this occasion was Brian House Children’s Hospice. Brian House provides a dedicated Children’s wing under the umbrella of the Trinity Hospice here on the Fylde Coast.
Back in the bar area Barry finished off the evening with a few jokes and a Scottish sing along, much to the enjoyment of all in attendance.
Roll on next year.