On Friday 18th September, 2009 the annual Markfest Golf tournament was held at Sherwood Golf club,Mansfield,and by the kind permission of the management of that club.

This was the 13th successive year of the event since it was first held as a fund raising event in anticipation of the then forthcoming Mark Festival of 2005. Such has been its success that the name has endured until this day and will ever be so whilst the tournament is held.

Some 80 participants enjoyed golf on a course which was in excellent condition,.The weather was kind, being sunny and warm from dawn until dusk.

Teams of 4 were started at the requisite intervals by W Bro Bill (Songster ? ) Bristow with the winning score at 82 Stableford points. However, according to all the competitors the results were secondary insofar as the enjoyment was considered paramount and all looked forward to meeting again next year.

Following the dinner in the evening ,which was provided by the club catering staff, prizes were presented to the winning teams and to individuals. W Bro Gordon Beastall, PGChStwd representing the Provincial Grand Master, Rt W Bro Michael Gutteridge, presented the awards. Following the presentation he thanked everyone for supporting the event and gave a short account of how such events assisted Freemasonry to be able to support many Charities who need donations in order to help the needy.

W Bro Beastall then thanked W Bro Michael Ronan for his work in organising the day . Over the years his expertise, professionalism and friendly personality lured players into entering year on year. This comment was received to rapturous applause. However it would be nice to see more Masonic entries next year.

W Bro Michael auctioned many golf and other items and those present were most generous with their cash, which was a very fitting end to a most rewarding day. Again it was credit to Michael that in excess of £2000.00 became available to the Mark Benevolent Fund.