Big Ted and I were delighted to recently visit Eton Manor Lodge No. 8438 at Harlow—and what an uplifting evening it turned out to be!

One of the first things that stood out was the sheer number of Light Blues present. In fact, they outnumbered the Provincial Officers—a wonderful sign of fresh energy and the future of Freemasonry thriving in the Lodge.

The meeting itself was exceptional. W.Bro Neil Goulding, the outgoing Worshipful Master, delivered a flawless Installation Ceremony, completely from memory—no notes, no prompts—followed by a word-perfect Address to the Master and the Working Tools. It was truly impressive.

His successor, W.Bro Melvyn Rogers, continued the theme of excellence by investing a Light Blue Brother into each progressive office—a rare and inspiring commitment to nurturing new Masons and encouraging their journey.

The generosity of the Lodge was equally inspiring. On the night, they presented TLC Essex with a £2,500 donation, making Eton Manor Lodge the first Lodge to achieve Silver Patron status. This incredible gesture will provide hundreds of TLC bears to children in A&E departments across Essex—bringing comfort and calm in moments of distress.

A heartfelt thank you to all the Brethren of Eton Manor Lodge for your generosity, hospitality, and dedication to both Freemasonry and the wider community.

Thank you—and WELL DONE!