A Geordie Welcome south of the Tyne
 
At the start March on a bright Saturday morning a party of Brethren from West Lancashire made an early start to venture into the District of Northumberland and Durham to attend their District meeting, although an advance party had ventured forth a day earlier, a group of four staying in Durham had been advised by someone very senior in the Order to visit the "Dun Cow" a friendly local hostelry.
Enjoying a welcome cup of Tea
Arriving at Gateshead Masonic Hall in good numbers they were welcomed by Peter Croft the District Grand Prefect following the welcome they were able to meet friends and share a welcome cup of tea together with a plentiful supply of biscuits and Bacon Barmcakes.
John Bicknell, Geoff Catterall, Paul Snape, Stephen Gregory,
Bill Seddon, Frank Clarke, Bob McGown, Ernie Gavan
Leading the deputation was the DGP Bill Seddon; he was accompanied by the Dept.DGP Paul Snape as well as six members of the District.
Stephen Duffy and John Bicknell
Before the meeting the Grand Steward John Bicknell was able to chat to the Grand Sword Bearer Stephen Duffy who is also the District Grand Secretary.
Photo 197     Stephen Gregory and Frank Clarke
During his address Peter Croft, the District Grand Prefect for Northumberland and Durham thanked the members from West Lancashire for their valued and regular support.
A DGP's Meeting? Tom Auber, Cliff Bull, Peter Brockbank, Bill Seddon, Alex McLaren
Following the meeting the party were able to enjoy liquid refreshment in the company of friends from both the District of Northumberland and Durham and other Districts visiting the meeting.
A Malaria Preventative??
Following the four course Banquet whilst most of the party made their way back to Lancashire. Three members from Chorley continued their "Weekend Break" in either Durham or Gateshead.
Enjoying (a second) Prawn Cocktail

Report and photos from our Tyneside Correspondent.