The day dawned to clear blue skies and despite our early morning start (6.45) we set off from Roman Road to set up our stall at the show full of enthusiasm.Perhaps its practice but whatever the reason we were set up by 8.30 and were eagerly awaiting the official opening at 9.00.From a slow trickle we were soon experiencing more and more customers. My Uncle, my Dad, My brother was/is a Freemason do you know him? Was the usual opening of many of our visitors the majority of them Ladies. Sometimes just a cursory passing interest, but certainly more than a few wanting to know just what we were about.
The utter surprise when we explain to them that, no we are not a secret society and that on the contrary, we don’t just look after ourselves but help others in their time of need was evident on their faces.Amongst our display items this year were two cheques for the Yorkshire and North East Air Ambulance Services. A great many people commented on the fact that it was a great cause and congratulated us on a great effort. It would seem that it is a very popular charity close to the hearts of many people.
We also had a Cleveland Search and Rescue Team and their Land Rover with us as our guests. They had received a donation for £5000 from Anchor Lodge No 1870 and Provincial Grand Lodge so they wanted to show themselves off to the public to great effect.Our day ended as it had begun back at the Masonic Hall in Roman Road some twelve hours later.as it worth the effort? Would we do it again? Ask that question in a few months time when we have forgotten the long hours and I’m sure you will get a positive “YES” for an answer.
