Fylde Chapter No 2758, consecrated on 17 March 1908, is a chapter which has been in existence for 118 years, a chapter that prides itself on its fine ritual. But exceptional standards are not achieved by lethargy, they are built on the relentless effort and passion of the companions themselves and Fylde Chapter embodies that spirit. Gratitude must be extended to everyone for their outstanding work and commitment in making this event such a success.
31 companions attended the installation convocation at Cleveleys Masonic Hall, comprising 18 chapter members and 13 guests, including four grand officers, Ian Sanderson, Keith Jackson, Peter Greathead and Duncan Smith. Supported by North Fylde Group Chairman John Cross along with two acting Provincial grand officers, Provincial Grand Sojourner Glen Jackson and Provincial Grand Steward Creag Williams.
The chapter was opened and the general business was swiftly completed by first principal Geoff Diggles assisted by his coprincipals Adrian Wells and Barry Thompson. On a report, director of ceremonies Creag Williams announced that Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Ian Sanderson, the representative of Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews, requested admission. Ian processed into the chapter room accompanied by grand and acting Provincial grand officers and North Fylde Group Chairman John Cross.
After welcoming Ian to Fylde Chapter, Geoff invited Derek Abbott to occupy the position of installing scribe Nehemiah, John Cross to occupy the chair of installing second principal and Ian Chetwynd to occupy the chair of installing third principal.
In due course, Adrian Wells was installed into the chair of first principal by Geoff Diggles. Barry Thompson was installed into the chair of second principal by Adrian Wells and Adam Simpson was installed into the chair of third principal by Barry Thompson.
All companions were readmitted and then the robe addresses were delivered. The scarlet robe address to the first principal was delivered by Ian Chetwynd, the purple robe address to the second principal was delivered by Ashley Wright and the blue robe address to the third principal was delivered by Alan Fairhurst.
First principal Adrian Wells had the great pleasure of investing Geoff Diggles as immediate past first principal of the chapter, thanking Geoff for the work he had done during his year as first principal. Chairman of the North Fylde Group John Cross delivered the address to the three principals and first principal Adrian Wells then appointed and invested the officers of the chapter for the ensuing year.
The final address came from Ian Sanderson who delivered a flawless address to the companions of Fylde Chapter. On completion of the installation ceremony, Ian rose to bring the greetings of Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews praising all those who had been involved in the ceremony.
Adrian then presented Ian with a list of donations to various charities and deserving causes; £500 for the Masonic Hall at Cleveleys, £250 for Brian House Children’s Hospice, £250 to Kindness Counts, £100 to Trinity Hospice Santa Dash, £250 to Great Arley School, £100 to Homestart, £100 to Community Trust (War Veterans Blackpool), £50 to Children’s Mental Health, £100 to Faith in the Community and £50 to the Church of St Chads. A total of £1,750 raised by events organised by Geoff Diggles and charity steward Michael Lumby. Ian Sanderson congratulated everyone on raising such a fine amount and a further £300 was raised during the day and at the festive board.
After the remainder of items on the summons was completed, the chapter was closed and the companions retired to the festive board to enjoy a fine meal supplied by Yes Chef catering with wine takings and some inspirational speeches.