W. Bro. David then delivered a faultless rendition of the lecture on the degree of Mark Master Masons which was met with general acclamation by the brethren, and he was warmly thanked by the Worshipful Master.

After this, W. Bro. Barlow took a position next to the Tracing Board and the Worshipful Master delivered the preamble to the Lecture on the Tracing Board of the Degree of Mark Master Mason; this was followed by members of the Lodge explaining portions of the Lecture whilst W. Bro. Barlow pointed out the relevant symbols on the Tracing Board. The whole presentation was delivered with dignity, understanding and meaning, after which the Provincial Grand Master thanked the brethren for their efforts in delivering such a wonderful explanation.

The Provincial Grand Master then took the opportunity to present V. W. Bro. David, one of the longest serving member of the Lodge, with 50-year certificates celebrating his years of service to the Mark Degree in Northumberland.

W. Bro. Ray was delighted to be able to present two certificates, the first on behalf of M.W. Bro. His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, CGVO, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons, and the second on behalf of the Mark Province of Northumberland.

W. Bro. David was advanced into De La Val Lodge of M.M.M. No. 1290 on 13^th November 1975, exactly 50 years ago to the day, and became Worshipful Master in September 1984. He eventually received the honour of P.A.G.Swd.B. in June 2004 and was promoted in June 2012 to P.G.J.D. In September he received a further worthy promotion to P.G.J.O. He is also a member of Gosforth Lodge of M.M.M. No. 463 which he joined in 1980, becoming Worshipful Master in 1990.

W. Bro. David has remained active through the years and continued to be a tremendous support to both Lodges, only recently stepping down from active offices in both.

After R. W. Bro. Ray had presented the certificates to V. W. Bro. David, the Provincial Grand Master then thanked him for his many years of loyal and dedicated service to the Mark Degree and hoped that he would have many more years to enjoy the companionship and friendship of the Order.

Bro. David has had a long and illustrious career in Mark Masonry, and we congratulate him on achieving this magnificent milestone.

After the meeting had closed there then followed the traditional fish and chips meal for the festive board during which V. W, Bro. David was presented with a bottle of single malt whisky to commemorate the anniversary of his Advancement.

Another memorable Mark evening enjoyed by all present.