Monday, 12th October marked a remarkable triple celebration at Harlequins Lodge. The evening began with the initiation of our newest member, Bro. Miles Pring, whom we were delighted to welcome into the Lodge. In addition, 22 Festival Jewels were formally presented to qualifying Brethren, recognising their commitment and generosity. The Lodge itself was honoured with the Festival Gold Award, having achieved an exceptional average donation of £1,200 per member, alongside an impressive £13,000 contributed collectively.
The RW Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro. Robert G. Payne, together with the 2032 Festival Chairman, W. Bro. Simon K. S. Daniel, were joined by Festival Treasurer W. Bro. Mike Yeo, Festival Secretary W. Bro. James Forbes‑Kier, and Festival Jeweller Bro. Andrew Newson to present the awards and celebrate this significant milestone.
This is the first Gold Award of the 2032 Festival – an achievement that, as Festival Chairman W. Bro. Simon remarked, “every member should be proud of and shout about.” He further noted, “Since January this year, our Province has received over £300,000 in grants and donations. That money has come from all of us – Brethren who have signed up and given to the Festival. Thank you so much for your kind support.”
The Provincial Grand Master expressed his pride in the Province and commended the dedication shown by Brethren and Lodges in supporting the Festival. As a former Provincial Charity Steward, he spoke with conviction about the vital work of The Freemasons’ Charity and the meaningful assistance it provides to individual Masons, their families, local organisations, and charitable causes.
W. Bro. Ben Smith, East Area Chair, was also delighted to attend and witness one of his area Lodges receive this distinguished accolade.