At the regular February Convocation the Chapter was honoured with the attendance of E Comp Barry K Woodside, Deputy Grand Superintendent, accompanied by E Comp Chris Moore, PGDC. The meeting was a demonstration or the Exaltation Ceremony in preparation for the next meeting’s “live” Ceremony. Unfortunately our Principal Sojourner was called away to a family crisis and E Comp Mike Condick volunteered to stand in and read the part. The Almoner being absent the DC, E Comp Adrian Halliwell, gave a report which highlighted those Comps who were unwell, especially E Comp Keith Colman (recovering from heart problems and a broken wrist), Comp Arthur Miller (viral infection) and E Comp Walter Cole (who was in hospital with bad back and foot as well as a chest infection).
Comp Peter Lee acted as candidate and all went reasonably smoothly so bodes well for the April meeting. At the 2nd and 3rd Risings E Comp Barry announced those companions who were receiving a Provincial first appointment, promotion and those remaining in office. 1966 are particularly thrilled to have four active officers for the 2017-2018 season.
After the closing 20 Companions retired for the Festive Board of Steak and Ale Pie with seasonal trimmings followed by a tasty cheese board and biscuits. The Visitors’ Toast was proposed by E Comp Chris Summers and a fellow Lodge of Construction member E Comp Steve Wilkinson, a member of St George, Exeter, responded with good humour.