Brethren from across the Province gathered at the Installation Meeting of Gates of Billing Lodge to witness WBro Philip McKeown being installed into the Chair of King Solomon by the outgoing Worshipful Master, WBro David Mander.
The evening proved to be particularly special as it marked the final Official Visit of WBro Francis Margot, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, ahead of his retirement from Active Provincial Office at the forthcoming Annual Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting.
Almost 70 brethren attended the meeting in support of both the Lodge and WBro Francis on this memorable occasion. During an emotional address, WBro Francis reflected on his years serving the Province and paid heartfelt tribute to the current and past Provincial Directors of Ceremonies who had accompanied him to countless meetings throughout his tenure as Assistant Provincial Grand Master. As a testament to the friendship and respect held for him by the Provincial DC Team, a number attended the meeting and were photographed together with WBro Francis.
The evening was further supported by number Active Provincial Officers, fellow Assistant Provincial Grand Master WBro Dale Gilbert, a number of Grand Offices as well as the “St Ivo Posse” — brethren from WBro Francis’s Mother Lodge, St Ivo Lodge.
During Second Rising, WBro Rob Oliver presented WBro Francis with a cheque for £2,000 in support of Teddies for Loving Care (TLC). As a Provincial Assistant Director of Ceremonies, WBro Rob had spent many hours travelling with WBro Francis and hearing him speak passionately about the charity and its work supporting children in hospital. Inspired by those conversations, WBro Rob dedicated his fundraising efforts whilst completing the Manchester Marathon to raising money for TLC, culminating in this generous presentation.
Whilst the evening carried great significance for WBro Francis, the principal purpose of the meeting was not forgotten. WBro David Mander installed his successor in a careful, dignified, and expert manner, before also delivering the Address to the Brethren. Following his installation, WBro Philip McKeown appointed and invested his officers for the year ahead, thanking them for their enthusiasm, commitment, and support for the Lodge during his forthcoming year in the Chair.
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