The Festival was hosted by the Worshipful Master, WBro Michael Raine at Daventry Court Hotel on Saturday 6 June.
WBro Robin Brown gave the Toast to the Ladies and WBro John Wilkes performed an outstanding rendition of the Ladies Song. The Worshipful Master’s Lady Mrs Maureen Raine gave a most sincere response on behalf of the Ladies, followed by the Worshipful Master who said that it was an important occasion that allowed wives and partners to be honoured for their understanding and support in the brethren’s lodge duties.
The Worshipful Master thanked WBro Graham Ballinger the Festival Secretary and WBro Malcolm Payne the Master of Ceremonies for organising the event, and the 138 present for their generosity. He said that it was beyond all his expectations to have raised a total of £936 in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind and other charities.
Following the formal proceeding the evening culminated with live popular music, performed by Brothers United, comprising of WBro Graham Ballinger and WBro John Wilkes (Buckby Castle Lodge), Bro Ray Robins, (a Worcestershire Mason), Mr Terry Ballinger (Graham’s elder brother), and Mr David Hylton of Long Buckby.