MORE than 1,200 freemasons from the East Lancashire Province gathered for a special meeting and dinner at King George's Hall, Blackburn.

The meeting was lead by the provincial grand master, the Right Worshipful Brother Paul JE Rink OBE.

Members from lodges from Manchester to Clitheroe were joined by masons from China and America who were there to receive special recognition awards.

Among matters discussed were the donation of money by the East Lancashire Province to Newfield School and hospices.