Double Celebration at Kenilworth Lodge
Kenilworth Lodge recently held a very special meeting, when the Worshipful Master initiated his son, followed by a 50 Year Certificate presentation.
W Bro Peter Rollason, Master of the Lodge, initiated his son Robert, aged just 22, in a splendid ceremony witnessed by a good number of visitors from far & wide. Bro Robert is the fourth generation of his family to become a member of Kenilworth Lodge, being preceded by his uncle, grandfather and father, and joins a thriving Lodge. A rugby player, and Undergraduate Civil Engineer, Robert will be a great addition to the Lodge, where he already knows several members.
Following the initiation, W Bro John Hayward, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, presented the candidate with the Entered Apprentice booklet, personally signed by the Provincial Grand Master, and congratulated him on behalf of the Province.
The next celebration was the presentation of a 50 Year Certificate of Service to Freemasonry to Bro Raymond Willday, who at the grand age of 98 told the enthralled meeting of his experiences during the war as pilot of the Lancaster Bomber and other notable aircraft.
After the war, Bro Ray joined the Austin Healey motor company and as part of their racing team, was co-driver in the 1952 Mille Miglia, a 1000 mile Italian race which took place between 1927 & 1957 – Stirling Moss won the race in 1955. Living near Banbury now, Bro Ray still enjoys watching flying displays and motor racing, accompanied by the occasional glass of fine wine.
Commenting afterwards, W Bro John Hayward said what a lovely evening had been enjoyed by all present, and how he very much enjoyed the presentation and discussions with Bro Ray Willday.