Bro John then became Master of the Lodge in 1991 and did a second year in 1992.
He was honoured with the rank of Past Provincial Grand Master Overseer in 1995 and then promoted to Past Provincial Grand Junior Warden in 2001.
A popular member and dedicated supporter of his Lodge he currently holds the office of Senior Overseer.
When asked what he noticed had changed over the years he commented that when he first joined the Order, the Director of Ceremonies never used a book during rehearsals and that brethren were not allowed to use one during a ceremony.
After R. W. Bro Ray had presented the certificate to W. Bro. John he thanked him for his many years of loyal and dedicated service to Thomas Purvis Lodge and the Mark Degree and he hoped that he would have many more years to enjoy the companionship and friendship of the Order.
This wonderful evening was then rounded off by an excellent meal among good friends.
Our Provincial Grand Master R. W. Bro. Raymond Walton made Monday 27th March 2023 a very special night for Thomas Purvis Lodge MMM No 702 when he attended the meeting to present W. Bro. John Martin with his certificate commemorating 50 years of Membership of the Mark Degree in Northumberland.
Bro John was advanced into Thomas Purvis Lodge on 16th October 1972.
The year 1972 also being memorable for many other notable events including the start of the Watergate Scandal, Edward, Duke of Windsor, dying aged 77, 35 years after his abdication and Leeds United winning the FA Cup for the first time with a 1-0 win over Arsenal.
Northumberland and Berwick upon Tweed Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners TI is the now current holder of the Travelling Sceptre from 3rd Ocober 2023
The Travelling Gavel has left Whitley Bay and moved from the furthest east of the Province to the furthest west and is now in the possession of Hexham Lodge of Mark Master Masons No 1141. Perhaps it can now make its way to the far north to compete the Northumberland triangle.
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