W. Bro David North – recipient of the Award of Merit 2023
W. Bro David North went home a happy and possibly a slightly bemused young freemason after his attendance at the Provincial Grand Lodge of Middlesex Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday 9th May at Freemasons’ Hall, Covent Garden. Bemused in that there was no expectation of being singled out to win this prestigious masonic accolade. However, there were subtle hints from those in the know to ensure that he attended.
It was quite a way in to the proceedings and at the end of the Pro Prov Grand Master’s Address to the Brethren that W. Bro David was called to receive his award but before that moment RW Peter Baker had this to say,
“Brethren, I now come to an additional item, which is not included on the Paper of Business, but it is certainly one of great importance.
Our Provincial Grand Master, HRH Prince Michael of Kent, occasionally bestows his personal Award of Merit on a brother whom he believes is truly worthy to receive it and it is not given lightly nor regularly. Indeed, there are only ten Brethren (one of whom was awarded it posthumously), on whom he has bestowed this Award since his installation as our Provincial Grand Master some 40+ years ago in 1982, which shows just how special it is and, as Pro Provincial Grand Master, I am very fortunate today to have the privilege and pleasure in announcing the name of the recipient, on whom the RW Provincial Grand Master has been pleased to bestow his Award of Merit this year.
Somewhat unusually, the recipient of the Provincial Grand Master’s Award of Merit this year is a younger Mason, indeed he is a Light Blue and has yet to receive a First Appointment to Provincial Grand Rank, which is unique for this Award.
He was initiated in Royal Hanover Lodge No 1777 in 2012 and was installed for the first time as a Worshipful Master less than 2 years ago in 2021. He took his fourth step in Freemasonry and completed his journey in pure Antient Masonry by being exalted into the Royal Arch in Royal Hanover Chapter No. 1777 in 2014, two years after his initiation into the Craft. He has been extremely active since his initiation in 2021, despite his own medical problems, and is the Province’s IT Guru, using his considerable professional and creative IT skills to very good effect, and is currently Co-Chair, with Bro Ian Ferguson, of the Province’s HERMES Project, overseeing the technical implementation and roll-out of this Project throughout the Province.”
So, Brethren, if you are a bit slow off the mark and have not already guessed the name of this year’s recipient, it gives me very great pleasure to announce that the recipient of the Provincial Grand Master’s Award of Merit for 2023 is W Bro David James Anthony North”.
When the business of the AGM was completed W. Bro David then hastened with his Lodge Brethren who had accompanied him on this special day to the Lowlander Cafe opposite Freemasons’ Hall which was their dining venue. With its Belgian roots, the restaurant offered a new experience, its warm welcome enhancing the special atmosphere. As always, the Royal Hanover celebrations resonated with camaraderie. Their next meeting is eagerly awaited and will take place on May 26th where an initiation is planned.
W. Bro David North with his Lodge colleagues celebrating the moment.
See also: https://www.royalhanoverlodge.com/another-momentous-day-for-royal-hanover-and-its-members/