Companions of Chapter of Unity and Perseverance No 580 were honoured by the presence of Canon John Hall, Third Provincial Grand Principal, at their installation convocation in February 2026. John was accompanied by John Selly and Stewart Cranage, both whom are Assistants to the Provincial Grand Principals.
Also, in attendance and further honoured the chapter were Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Gary Smith, who ensured the evening ran smoothly, the Ormskirk and Bootle Group Chairman Stephen Dunn, vice chairman Malcolm Sandywell, together with four acting Provincial grand officers; Stephen Oliver, Martin Stewart, Richard Akty and Bill Bruce.
Once the chapter was opened, first principal Mike Dutton asked Leon Teasdale to occupy the third principal’s chair and Bob Taylor to occupy the second principal’s chair for the purposes of the ceremony of installation. Mike Dutton then thanked the companions for their support during what had been a difficult year for him.
The installation ceremony then proceeded and John Mercer was installed as first principal, Adam Woods as second principal and Bill Murphy as third principal. Andrew Mercer gave the address to the scarlet robe now worn by his father John Mercer. Ricardo Oberti gave the address to the purple robe and Jim Flynn delivered an address to the blue robe. All were word perfect and were given a round of applause for their efforts.
Chapter officers for the ensuing year were then installed by John and the ceremony of installation was completed. Canon John Hall then rose to congratulate all the companions who took part, particularly the director of ceremonies Mike Rimmer and his assistant Trevor Tomlinson, as well as the companions who gave the robe addresses.
The three principals then presented a list of cheques that were to be sent to six different charities to Canon John Hall as follows; £100 each to Tom Harrison House, Ormskirk and District Scouts, OMHA, WLFC, and the North West Air Ambulance, and £80 to the Ophthalmic Trust, totalling £580 which is the chapter number. John Hall gave thanks to the companions of the chapter for their generous donations.
With the whiff of charitable giving in the air, the companions descended for the festive board and a chance to raise more money for charity via the raffle. A splendid ceremony, splendid guests, and a splendid evening was had by all.
