News - A Contingent from Kent Visit the Cloisters in Hertfordshire

It was another early start (but thankfully not dark) for the District Grand Prefect R.W. Bro. Brian Ward and the District Grand Secretary W. Bro. Derek Wilkins as they travelled Northwards to attend the Allied Annual District meeting for the District of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.

Having enjoyed a trouble-free journey, they arrived at the Cloisters Masonic centre in good spirits and received a very warm welcome, but more to the point in plenty of time to enjoy a tasty bacon buttie and a welcome cup of tea.

The Cloisters

The D.G.P. and District Secretary all set for the meeting

Having enjoyed the refreshments and many conversations with brethren who had travelled from near and far to attend the meeting the brethren were invited to take their seats in the temple by 10.45. Several processions for visiting D.G.P.’s and other distinguished guests ensued before the District Grand Prefect for the District of Herefordshire and Bedfordshire R.W. Bro. Geoff Cheshire and his officers entered the temple to rapturous applause.

Having opened the district meeting in due form, R.W.Bro. Geoff Cheshire began his welcome to the visiting D.G.P.’s and other distinguished visitors. As expected, this was full of very good-natured banter which is customary for such meetings. When the routine business of the council had been conducted the D.G.P. announced that he would be appointing W.Bro. Ian Crossley as his new Deputy. However, before doing so, he thanked his outgoing Deputy V.W.Bro. Glen Sapsford for his many years of service and dedication to the district.

When the new Deputy had been saluted the D.G.P then invested and appointed his officers for the year in a very efficient and sincere manor before they were saluted. Following his address to the brethren the remaining business of the council was concluded before the council was closed in due form.

Photographs to mark the day were taken before the brethren retired to the bar for refreshments and conversation. At approximately 1pm the brethren were invited to take their seats for lunch. There then followed a delicious lunch with lots of chatter and laughter in evidence. All too soon, and after many good byes the District Grand Prefect R. W Bro. Brian Ward and the District Grand Secretary W. Bro. Derek Wilkins for Kent headed for home.

The Visisting D.G.P.'s supporting the D.G.P and his Deputy from Herts & Beds.

Another excellent day spent amongst Allied Brethren from near and far.

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