V.W. Bro. Malcolm Lloyd,
e-mail; wizardmal@hotmail.co.uk
22nd, July, 2026
To All members of the Mark and RAM Lodges, Province of Hampshire and Isle of Wight.
Brethren all,
Yes, another letter from Andover, this is mainly to say a big THANK YOU to all who were
involved in organising the MBF Festival for Hampshire and Isle of Wight. Pat and I enjoyed
a lazy, relaxing time at the Old Thorns, over Friday and Saturday, this weekend. It was one
of the best Festival events that we have attended for a number of years. From the booking in
procedure to the announcement of the final total collected, in our opinion, all details had
been covered very efficiently.
The buffet on the Friday evening was excellent, with a good variety of hot and cold food.
The Sea Shanties were fun and the Tribute act, to many of us, took us back a few years,
bringing to memory the popular and well known songs of a past era.
The reception dinner was proceeded by a drinks reception, at which the Pro Grand Master,
the Deputy Grand Master, with accompanying ceremonial “staff” circulated and spoke to
many of the guests. During the Dinner we were entertained by the Royal Marines
Association Band, who were in fine form. Later the entertainment was an Elton John Tribute
act.
All of you who attended have been switched off by now as you experienced this good event.
Those who did not attend have, now, some of idea of the fun that we had and shows the
details covered in organising and arranging such an event. Not everything went to plan but as
I have already stated, it was one of the best MBF Festival for a long time. A big thank you
also to the Craft Stewards who guided us to the various venues.
Now for the Good news, some would have already seen this, but the amount raised for the
2026 Festival was a magnificent £1,898,765. The P.G.M., Rt. W. Bro. George Deacon
expressed hid heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed over the years.
Well done everybody.
Best wishes,
Malcolm Lloyd G.J.O.