Victory Lodge in Pickering recently presented W. Bro. George Ernest Smith with his 50 years
certificate and jewel.
Having lived all of his life in Pickering, Ernest started his own haulage business in the early 1950s with a single lorry, and built it up into the major concern that it is today, now ably run by his son, Paul. Ernest was initiated into Victory Lodge on 4th July 1968. He became master on 5th May 1977, and went on to receive Provincial Honours in May 1987, with promotions in 1994 and 2007. He has contributed tirelessly to the lodge throughout all of those 50 years, deeply involving himself in refurbishment projects and keenly ensuring that standards were maintained and sufficient funding was available for the continued maintenance of the lodge fabric. He has always been a keen supporter of the Junior Lodge, and over the years many young masons have benefitted from his wise council.
The certificate and jewel were presented to him at the July meeting by the Master, and all present were treated to an informative and anecdotal tribute delivered by W. Bro. Brian Thackray.
Best wishes to Ernest from all at Victory Lodge!