The Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother David Charles Purdie, was present at the installation ceremony of the Lewis Mark Lodge 1284 recently, the lodge of which he has been a member for almost 33 years. He was accompanied to the meeting by a vast array of holders of Grand and Provincial Grand rank, including Right Worshipful Brother Peter Balsom, Past Provincial Grand Master, Very Worshipful Brother Mike Daniels, the Provincial Treasurer, Worshipful Brother Paul Howard Baker, Grand Senior Deacon and Worshipful Brother Dennis Challis, Grand Steward. Joining them were Worshipful Brothers Garry Kitchen and Julian Turner, the Senior and Junior Wardens, together with all three Overseers, namely Worshipful Brothers Nigel Frude, David Richards and Dr Alan Howlett.

Other distinguished visitors included Worshipful Brother Nicholas A. Ball, also Provincial Grand Master of the Craft, Worshipful Brother Andrew Vodden MBE, Assistant Provincial Grand Master of the Craft and 2nd Grand Principle (Elect) for the Royal Arch, and Worshipful Brother Michael Penny, the Inspector General of the Ancient and Accepted Rite of the District of Devonshire.

As many brethren had travelled from across the Province during the day to be present, they were treated to an extensive and warming buffet on their arrival. This allowed them to relax, whilst they were able to mingle and enjoy each other’s company before the meeting. This was well received by all attending and thanks were given to the caterers and the Worshipful master for organising this wonderful welcome.

The Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother Mark Bowes-Cavanagh, performed an excellent ceremony, installing Worshipful Brother Phillip Allwood into the Chair of Adoniram in fine form. Worshipful Brother Phil then went on to appoint and invest his team of officers, which included many brothers amongst the progressive offices.

Following the meeting the brethren retired to the Wadding Duck restaurant nearby, where more than 80 brethren enjoyed the ample festive board that was provided. The atmosphere at the festive board was full of fun and laughter throughout, which again shows the happiness and enjoyment of all the brethren within the Mark degree. It was nice also to see the two Provincial Wardens enjoying a moment together, even though it was noticed that the restaurant had provided the Senior Warden with a slightly larger glass (rank has its privileges apparently). The evening ended with the brethren heading home, with their bellies full and warm memories of a great evening.