The Dining Room prepared in the colours of St George

The Masonic Centre at Cheshunt was the venue, on Sunday 20th April 2008, for the second Hertfordshire Knights Templar St George’s Dinner. Sold out within four days, the 152 present braved a cold wet day but were soon warmed by the spirit of our Patron Saint, St George

The evening commenced with a Grace, written and presented in his own inimitable way by E.Kt. John Paternoster. The lights were then dimmed, and following a fanfare by Maurice Champ on the piano, E.Kt. Phillip Hoy dressed in armour, and brandishing an evil looking sword, roused the assembled diners with a rendition of an excerpt from Shakespeare’s Henry Vth., finishing with “for Harry, England and St George”.

Following the first course of English Spring Vegetable Soup (what else?) E.Kt. Mike Beaty enquired of the Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Brian Blanchard “if he would receive Ye Olde Roast Beefe of England”. The Provincial Prior being up to the challenge, the Olde Roast Beefe was carried through an Arch of Steel and paraded around the dining room, before being presented to the Provincial Prior by E.Kt. Mick Chalkley. The Beefe was tested by the Provincial Prior with his sword and then addressed and dubbed “Sir Loin”. It was returned to the kitchen, through the Arch of Steel to be carved and then devoured by the diners.

After consuming Summer Pudding, an English Cheese Board, and coffee, the Provincial Prior proposed toasts to The Queen and to England and St George.

After a short “comfort break” Gemma Turner followed up her success of last year and proceeded to entertain those present with a variety of songs. It wasn't long before everyone was letting their hair down (or in the case of John Paternoster putting it on) and joining in. It was also a special occasion for Mrs Connie Rawlins who was to celebrate her 80th birthday the next day and the procession of a cake was accompanied by 150 people singing "Happy Birthday".

A session of “Stand Up Bingo” to raise money for charity followed. This was enthusiastically supported, with those still standing towards the end of each game being vocally encouraged by the others on their tables. Prizes of £25, £50, £75, £100 and finally £150 made sure everyone got involved.

So, the result - over 150 people enjoyed themselves, St George and England were toasted and over £500 was raised. To Maurice, Gemma and all of you who supported Thank You. It’s bound to be repeated so, to avoid disappointment, look out for the date and book straight away.