A wonderful time was had on a scorching Saturday, 15th August, at the East Midlands Allied Annual Meeting at The Grange Masonic Hall, Derbyshire. Rehearsals went extremely well, ably marshalled by our stand-in DC, WBro Philip Bowler.
It was great to see everyone catching up with old friends and making new ones before the ceremony, in a building with a fascinating history. During the Second World War, The Grange was a training and research centre for the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, which powered the legendary Spitfire.
Indeed, an attraction which ensured both the Temple and dining room were full to the brim, creating a wonderful atmosphere for the occasion.
District Grand Prefect, R W Bro Steven Barratt, personally welcomed guests from a dozen Allied Districts, both at home and overseas, amongst them brethren from West and East Lancashire, who both arrived en masse!