On Monday 16th March, a small group of familiar faces from Royal Hanover Lodge No.
1777 made a special and rather unexpected journey to Vale of Avon Lodge No. 4859 in Ringwood, Hampshire.
Among them were retired police officers W Bros Michael Ross, Phil Malins, and Lawrie Hawkins, joined by W Bro Hugh Saville and Colin Grant. Their purpose was both simple and meaningful: to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the Masonic career of a former colleague and friend, W Bro Michael Wilkinson.
The connection ran deeper than Masonry alone. All had served together at Twickenham Police Station, and the evening became a reunion of shared history, camaraderie, and enduring friendship.
W Bro Michael Wilkinson, formerly of Ionic Lodge No. 227 in London, had long been a regular and much-valued visitor to Royal Hanover Lodge. Following his move to Hampshire, increasing distance and health considerations made regular attendance more difficult—but the bonds clearly remained as strong as ever.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of his 40-year certificate, conducted by W Bro Chris Lockwood, Assistant Provincial Grand Master. Delivered with warmth, humour, and an easy charm, the presentation struck just the right balance between dignity and light-heartedness. The room was filled with laughter, good-natured banter, and a genuine sense of pride in celebrating such a significant achievement.
Adding further distinction to the occasion, the Lodge meeting featured a superbly delivered double initiation ceremony, led by the Worshipful Master, W Bro Andrew Moonet, and his officers—an impressive demonstration of teamwork and ritual excellence.
Altogether, it was an evening that perfectly captured the essence of Freemasonry: friendship, continuity, and shared experience across time and distance.
A visit well worth making—for many reasons.
