Our Past Imperial Grand Master Bertie Johnston and his wife Evelyn have proven they are two real diamonds as they celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary. The couple who recently celebrated their 60th Wedding  have donated over £600 to the Coronary Unit at the Causeway Hospital in Coleraine, and the same to the ILOI Benevolent Fund. Bertie who have been the key figure in the Institutions Benevolent fund which has paid out thousands of pounds over the years to the families of deceased members led by example. He and his wife Evelyn and Bertie Johnston, hosted a dinner party to mark the big occasion in the Independent Orange Headquarters on Edward Street.

There they refused gifts to mark the occasion and instead asked guests to donate to charities of their choice. Their 80 guests  provided donations rather than give presents to their anniversary dinner  and as a result the local hospital and many other members of the ILOI and their families will be helped. 
The pair tied the knot in Rasharkin Presbyterian Church on October 7, 1958 and today they looked every bit as happy as on that day. The ILOI sends its warmest regards to the couple and wish them many more years together.

After years in teaching Bertie is still most active in the ILOI and its financial affairs. His work building up the Riada Credit Union and wider church and charity work is an inspiration to all.
In total, £1270 was raised, with £635 being donated to the Coronary Unit at the Causeway Hospital and the same amount to the Independent Orange Benevolent fund.