All reps were encouraged to include a report about the KLA activities on Lodge Summonses, in similar fashion to Almoner and charity Stewards reports, to develop awareness of being part of the KLA.

Kudu lodge 8662 in Hertfordshire successfully made a great display at the 100th Gilwell Reunion at the beginning of September. They delivered the project of promoting the KLA and had a superb map showing locations of each member Lodge so visitors could take contact details to gain local Freemasons support, Delighted that Kudu Lodge under the direction of Richard Stone have agreed to undertake a similar display at next years 101st Reunion event.

The Chairman asked for some thought on developing benefits and values of being part of the KLA whether a Lodge or individual so we can increase enjoyment of belonging and promoting KLA membership.

This developed asking reps to take a lead on setting up working groups to further discuss projects and promoting the KLA, perhaps meeting online between Festival’s to develop ideas for the next Committee meeting in April.

It was noted that Steve Gough is now the new Treasurer with Alan Beavis focusing on merchandise.

The Deputy Chair (Tony Harvey) discussed the Liaison between The Scout Association and Freemasonry, and today’s main meeting was to include a podcast style interview with Carl Hankinson (Chief Volunteer).

This led to discussions on Square and Compasses Support Group with Tony noting that whilst we are setting up the Unit we have to ensure that all S and C members register as members of Scouts. This ensures DBS and Learning is complete.

The Lodge of Unity Peace and Concord, 316 (the KLA installed masters Lodge) was the next event and whilst many people were still arriving, past masters  and past masters of other lodges and visitors were invited to join in the lodge. UPC met under the mastership of Bill Gunn with all those joining almost filling the Lodge Room.

Apart from a quick break, The Scout Lodge 9814 assembled and opened the third meeting of the day. This included a short meeting to cover Lodge business then opening the doors to  friends, partners, family and visitors for a brilliant explanation of the Lodge room furniture and who does what in the room. Each officer and lodge member role was explained giving our visitors a full role description of what we do.

Tony Harvey and Carl Hankinson then took centre stage for us to listen to Carl explaining his role revealing just what his job entailed and what encouraged him into Scouting and his motivations and beliefs. This “goldfish bowl” style discussion was indeed fascinating detailing his personal drivers of the work he does as a volunteer.