The Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother David Purdie, was joined by members of the Province when they crossed numerous borders and travelled to the Province of Hampshire. They joined brethren from across the country, to celebrate the Sesquicentennial anniversary of the Province of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The meeting opened in fine form and the distinguished guests were received with due reverence. The meeting then came to order to receive the Most Worshipful Pro Grand Master, John Herbert Prizeman.

The meeting continued its normal business, appointing the active officers for the ensuing year, along with promotions and appointments to other brethren. A wonderful talk was then given on the history of the Province, and in particular over the recent years. The talk contacted interesting information, along with fun and humour that was enjoyed by all.

There was a lovely moment during the meeting when the Pro Grand Master invited a member of Hampshire Province to the stage, to present him with his 50 year certificate. During this presentation, it was pointed out that this brother had actually begun his career in Devonshire.

Worshipful Brother Ron Bentley had originally spent many of his early years in the Mark Degree in both Plympton Erle and Hawton 100 Mark lodges. He then went on to join the Hawton 100 Royal Ark Mariners, before sadly leaving the Province finally in 2014. Ron is still listed as an honourary member of the Hawton 100 Royal Ark Mariners.

  

(photo's courtesy of Hampshire Province)

Following the meeting, more than 320 brethren congregated in the main hall at the Portsmouth Guildhall for a wonderful festive board, with members of the RM(V) Band providing some lovely background music