Lodge Kelso & Tweed 58

Since 1701 - the oldest Fraternal Society in Kelso

Kelso & Tweed welcomes the 2024 Kelso Laddie

On the afternoon of Saturday, 30th June, Lodge Kelso & Tweed No. 58 hosted the 2024 Kelso Laddie, Jack Forsyth, along with his Right Hand Man, Andrew Thomson, Left Hand Man, Callum Davidson, and several guests from the Kelso Laddies Association and Ex-Laddies Club. The Master, Brother Tim Slater, welcomed the group to the Lodge Rooms, anticipating a pleasant afternoon in their company. Brother Drew Forsyth introduced the Brethren, explaining their various offices and responsibilities within the Lodge. He concluded by congratulating Jack Forsyth and wishing him a happy and successful year as the town’s Kelso Laddie.

The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation by Brother Euan Heard, Chairman of the Borders Quarrymen. Brother Heard’s talk, titled “Freemasonry in the 21st Century,” explained the work of the young freemasons in the Province and across Scotland. This was well received by the visitors and was followed with a Question & Answer session where the members explained  about their historical connections with the great abbeys and the Lodge’s modern outlook. 

The Kelso Laddie was presented with a personal gift and a cheque for £150 to sponsor the Civic Week Saturday’s entertainment in Kelso Square. Following this, the Master called for “Honours” for the Kelso Laddie, and the Brethren toasted his success with the customary Masonic Fire. The Kelso Laddie expressed his gratitude to the Lodge for their generous gifts and a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon. The Laddies then gave the customary rendition of “Bonny Kelsae,” which was met with great applause.

The company was then entertained by Brother Mick Todd, who kept everyone amused with his usual stories and anecdotes. At the end of the afternoon, the Laddies remarked that, aside from the Civic Week Rideouts, their time spent with the Brethren of Lodge Kelso & Tweed was one of the highlights of the season!

The Master of the Lodge presented Graham Sweenie, Chairman of the Ex-Laddies Club, with £165, the proceeds from the afternoon’s raffle, to support their ongoing charitable work in the town. Additionally, Brother Steven Patterson presented the Kelso Laddie with a fine bottle of the Grand Master Mason’s Choice Whisky.

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