Second Provincial Grand Principal Michael Threlfall was the guest of honour at the installation convocation of Makerfield Chapter No 2155 to witness John Thompson being installed into the first principal’s chair for the second time, the first being 2019 – 2020.
Michael was accompanied by Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Malcolm Alexander, Group Chairman Jonathon Heaton, grand and acting Provincial grand officers, all proceedings were under the watchful eye of Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Ian Halsall.
Michael and Malcolm witnessed a truly wonderful installation ceremony as first principal Wayne Barnes gave an impressive performance in the first principle’s chair. David Eccles and David Gordon-Williams were installed as second and third principals respectively. The robe addresses were given in splendid form by Stephen Foster and Arthur Jolley. Wayne then presented the chapter charter and warrant to John for safe keeping before finally thanking all companions for their help and support of being first principle in the previous year.
Michael gave very sincere greetings on behalf of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews. John responded by conveying the best wishes from all the companions of the chapter, then he had the pleasure of presenting two cheques to Michael, the following being; to Atherton and Leigh Food Bank £150, West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity £150, making a total of £300. John then presented Wayne with an immediate past first principle’s breast jewel.
Finally, the Second Provincial Grand Principal Michael Threlfall, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principles Malcolm Alexander, group chairman Jonathon Heaton, grand and acting Provincial grand officers retired.
Following the installation there was a festive board at which there were 27 companions who had great food, consisting of broccoli and stilton soup, Cumberland sausage, mash and roast potatoes and vegetables, finishing with a tipsy trifle. The festive board was very relaxed with lots to talk about with old and new friends. In response to the formal toast to Michael he mentioned the importance of Craft brethren and why they should consider joining the Royal Arch as it fitted in perfectly after the third degree ceremony.
Anthony Roe, Leigh Group Publicity Officer.