Amwell Lodge were once again filled with pride as one of our own, W. Bro. Mark Purtow, took a leading role in a most distinguished gathering at the Pavilion, Luton, for the meeting of the Bedfordshire Lodge of Installed Masters. On this occasion, W. Bro. Purtow was in attendance in his capacity as Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, a role of considerable prestige within Grand Lodge.
The meeting was notable for the presence of several eminent Brethren, including R.W. Bro. Sir David Wootton, Past Deputy Grand Master and current Second Grand Principal of Supreme Grand Chapter; R.W. Bro. Nicholas Edwards, Provincial Grand Master for Bedfordshire; V.W. Bro. Clive Walsh, Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Bedfordshire; and W. Bro. Dean O’Connell, Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Bedfordshire. The Lodge was opened and presided over by W. Bro. Martin Wilson, Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Bedfordshire and Worshipful Master of the Bedfordshire Lodge of Installed Masters.
A particularly proud moment was to witness Amwell’s own W. Bro. Mark Purtow, in his ceremonial office, escorting R.W. Bro. Sir David Wootton into the Lodge. Conducted with his characteristic poise and precision, it was a fine example of the dignity and decorum that the office of Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies so highly demands.
Following the Proclamation of W. Bro. Martin Wilson for a further year as Master, the Brethren were treated to an enlightening address by Sir David Wootton on The Third Pillar, the national initiative he leads to encourage community engagement and support for Masonic centres throughout the country. Delivered with warmth, insight, and gentle humour, his words were received with great appreciation by all present.
The evening continued in the finest Masonic tradition at the Festive Board, where fellowship and good humour were shared in abundance — hallmarks of Bedfordshire Freemasonry.
For Amwell Lodge, it was an evening of quiet pride. To see one of our members not only serving as Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies but also, within our own Province, currently an active officer as Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Hertfordshire, a distinction of the highest order. W. Bro. Mark Purtow’s dedication and professionalism continue to bring great credit to Amwell Lodge and to the Province of Hertfordshire as a whole.
Amwell Lodge No.6459 