Celebrating 30 years of The North Essex Round Table Lodge

The North Essex Round Table Lodge celebrate a significant milestone and the Dedication of a new Lodge Banner

On Friday, November 7th, 2025, brethren and guests convened at the Colvin Memorial Temple in Clacton-on-Sea to commemorate a significant milestone: the 30th Anniversary of The North Essex Round Table Lodge No. 9578, in conjunction with the Dedication of the new Lodge Banner.

The meeting was chaired by Worshipful Master Nicholas Pudney and honoured by the attendance of several distinguished Provincial Grand Officers, including Assistant Provincial Grand Master Colin Felton, Provincial Assistant Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Stephen Durrant, and Provincial Grand Chaplain Rev Mick Scotchmer.

After the formal escort of the APGM into the Lodge, proceedings commenced with the Banner Dedication Ceremony.

The veiled banner was respectfully brought into the Lodge by the Banner Bearer and his team:

• • • Banner Bearer: Gary Barnden
    • Lodge Director of Ceremonies (DC): Roger Lewis
    • Lodge Assistant DC: David Fletcher
    • Lodge Senior Deacon: Joao Paulo Santos
    • Lodge Junior Deacon: Gary Duncan
    • Lodge Members: Les Baker, John Goodenough, Terry Wood, and Jonathan Cottage

Following its unveiling, the banner was blessed, dedicated, and formally presented to the Worshipful Master. This was succeeded by an inspiring oration delivered by the Provincial Grand Chaplain, marking the conclusion of the dignified dedication ceremony.

The Lodge then reflected on its heritage, highlighted by Graham Syrett’s presentation of the Lodge history, which had been meticulously researched and compiled by Chris Keeble prior to his passing—a heartfelt tribute to his commitment and service.

The newly dedicated banner is an exceptional example of craftsmanship, produced by a team of specialist embroiderers in Cornwall renowned for their work with Masonic banners and regalia. Designed by Gary Barnden, the banner integrates traditional Masonic symbols with the central Round Table rondel, effectively representing both the Lodge’s heritage and identity.

As a testament to the Lodge’s ongoing charitable work, the Worshipful Master presented a donation of £1,000 to the APGM in support of the Essex Provincial Charity Fund, with Colin Felton expressing sincere appreciation on behalf of the Province.

This special gathering not only celebrated three decades of fellowship, service and friendship but also signalled the beginning of a new chapter for The North Essex Round Table Lodge under a banner that will represent its values for years to come.

Congratulations on the 30th Anniversary, and may the Lodge continue to flourish.

Photo:

Officers, members and guests in attendance for this special meeting