On Thursday the 15th of January 2026 Pride of Surrey Lodge of Mark Master Masons, No. 1738, advanced a candidate to the Honourable Degree of a Mark Master Mason, Brother Hassan Hamdani of Nonesuch Park Lodge. V.W.Bro. Chris Eley had raised Bro. Hassan in his Craft Lodge three months earlier so was pleased to be invited to act as Junior Deacon.
The RAM Lodge
The afternoon started with the RAM Lodge, which was opened in due form by the Worshipful Commander, W.Bro. Paul Haycock, who welcomed everyone, especially their Official Visitor, W.Bro. Alan Boniface, representing the RW Provincial Grand Master.
After the regular business of the Lodge had been completed the Lodge was closed and the Temple re-arranged for the Mark meeting that followed.
The Mark Meeting
The Mark Lodge was opened by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Mark Carter, who welcomed everyone, especially their Official Visitor, W.Bro. Alan Boniface, P.G.St.B., P.Prov.G.J.W., representing the RW Provincial Grand Master. W.Bro. Alan was saluted with three and responded accordingly.
The Advancement
A ballot was taken for Brother Hassan Shah Hamdani as a Candidate for Advancement. This proved in his favour and the Worshipful Master conducted the ceremony of Advancement in an excellent and enjoyable manner assisted by his two Deacons, V.W.Bros. Bob Hurworth and Chris Eley.
Afterwards Brother Mark was congratulated by the Worshipful Master and welcomed into the Lodge. W.Bro. Alan Boniface also congratulated him and welcomed him into the Order and the Province of Surrey.
V.W.Bro. Chris Eley was then invited to present a Grand Lodge Certificate to Bro. Michael Capitelli, which he did in his own unique way.
A Convivial Festive Board
After a successful and enjoyable meeting, the Lodge was closed and, after refreshments, the Brethren of the Pride of Surrey Lodge and their guests sat down to a most convivial meal at the Surbiton Masonic Hall.