Smeaton Lodge 4352 enjoyed a truly memorable evening on Saturday 24th February when brethren, families, friends, and guests gathered at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth for the spectacular Bow Ties and Barnacles Ball.
Held in aid of Devon Mind and the Provincial Grand Master’s Plymouth Building Fund, the event brought together 120 guests for an evening of charity, fellowship, and celebration in one of Plymouth’s most distinctive venues. With its dramatic marine setting and impressive displays, the aquarium proved the perfect backdrop for a black-tie occasion that combined elegance with purpose.
Guests were warmly welcomed on arrival by the Worshipful Master of Smeaton Lodge along with his wife, Jane, before being shown through to the main dining area. The setting for dinner was particularly striking, with tables laid out in front of the aquarium’s magnificent reef tank, creating a unique atmosphere that made the evening feel all the more special. The venue itself added a real sense of occasion, giving everyone present the chance to enjoy a social event unlike any ordinary lodge gathering.
Shortly afterwards, the Head of Devonshire Freemasonry Nicholas Ball (the Provincial Grand Master) together with the Master of Smeaton and their respective partners joined the assembled guests. The support shown by the Province and Brethren of Smeaton reflected the strong spirit of unity and goodwill that exists across Freemasonry in Devon. It was wonderful to see so many people coming together, not only to enjoy themselves, but also to support two very worthwhile causes.
The evening continued with a fabulous meal enjoyed by all, before guests heard from representatives of Devon Mind, who delivered a short but informative talk about the important work the charity carries out across the county. Their words served as a timely reminder of the value of community support and the very real difference charitable fundraising can make to individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
This was followed by a brief address from the Provincial Grand Master about the Plymouth Building Fund, which was also warmly received. Both talks helped underline the purpose behind the event and gave guests a clear sense of how their support would directly benefit others.
Entertainment for the evening came from comedian Suzy Bennett, who had the room laughing and helped maintain the lively, upbeat atmosphere. After dinner, guests moved on to the Horizon’s Function Suite where celebrations continued with a raffle, DJ and dancing late into the night. The combination of fine dining, laughter, music, and fellowship ensured the Bow Ties and Barnacles Ball was not only a successful fundraiser but also a thoroughly enjoyable social occasion.
The even raised £500 for the Plymouth Building Fund and £1,000 for Devon Mind, and excellent result and a credit to everyone involved. More than that, the evening demonstrated what can be achieved when brethren work together with enthusiasm, generosity, and a shared commitment to supporting worthy causes.
A huge thank you goes to everyone who supported the event and who helped make it such a success. Events like this do more than just raise money, they strengthen friendships, building connections, and show Freemasonry at its very best in the local community.
Finally, special thanks must go to Brother Justin Stafford and his wife Ally for their hard work and dedication in organising the evening. Relatively new to Freemasonry, Justin approach the task with tremendous enthusiasm and helped deliver a truly memorable event. His commitment was a credit to the Lodge and a fine example of the values of Freemasonry in action.
