FREEMASONS, their families and friends came from all over Cheshire to take part in a procession through the streets of Chester to celebrate 150 years of Royal Arch Freemasonry.

Cheshire is the oldest Province (Area) for Freemasonry in England and having recently celebrated 300 years of history, members were delighted to take part in the 150th Anniversary for Royal Arch Freemasonry, a side branch from the original organisation.

Chester and District Standard:

The minibus keys are handed over to local scouts.

Head of Cheshire Freemasons Stephen Blank took part in the procession along with distinguished guests, partners, family, friends, uniformed organisations and well-wishers.

They left the Town Hall and walked to Chester famous 13th century cathedral.

More than 800 attendees from across Cheshire sat together to celebrate the sesquicentenary.

It was noted that the Town Hall at the heart of the City is also150 years old this year - so it seems 1869 was a busy year for Chester.

Chester and District Standard:

The donation of the Blood Bike

Guests included the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs, Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Chester Mark Williams, Russell Race From HQ in London and Robert Bramley and David Dyson, and senior Freemasons from Cheshire.

Chester and District Standard:

The procession leaves the town hall - The Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs and his wife, Lord Mayor of Chester Mark Williams followed by Stephen Blank and Russell Race, banner bearers Andy Tong and Richard Argyle and Robert Bramley.

After the service, photographs were taken of the new minibus given to local Scouts as well as an opportunity to meet the rider of the new Blood Bike, proudly branded with the Square and Compass, both vehicles provided by the Freemasons of Cheshire.