The companions of Red Triangle Chapter No 3874 were honoured to welcome Stewart Cranage as their principal guest and the representative of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews to the installation of their three principals and officers.
It was a significant evening for the companions of the chapter as it was their first convocation since making the move form Woolton Golf Club to Widnes Masonic Hall. On opening the chapter, first principal Ian Broomfield commented on the warm welcome that had been received on the move.
Induction and installation of the three principals was duly carried out in an excellent manner. Alan Routledge was installed as first principal; David Douglas was installed as second principal and Darren Fulton was installed as third principal. With the principals having taken their positions, appointment and investment of the officers for the ensuing year was carried out. Following the completion of all the business of the evening, it was time for the companions to retire to partake in the festive board.
At the festive board, the conversation was lively and thronged with laughter, as all enjoyed a fine meal. The toasts were expertly conducted by director of ceremonies Ian McGovern, who was very ably assisted by stand-in assistant director of ceremonies, David Boyes. Principal guest, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Stewart Cranage, remarked that he had really enjoyed his first visit to Red Triangle Chapter, and was equally impressed with the installation ceremony that had just been witnessed, and the camaraderie and obvious friendship of the companions at dinner.
Stewart commented that it is a testament to the obvious hard work and respect that the companions have for each other, and that he had enjoyed it so much, that he stated that he will ‘threaten’ to return again to the chapter, a very humorous statement and one which he would be welcome back at any time.
Immediate past first principal Ian Broomfield, led the toast to the three principals and wished them well in their forthcoming year and that he hoped that they would enjoy their time in office as much as he had. In response, first principal Alan Routledge, thanked Ian for his commitment to the chapter and alongside the other principals stated that they are looking forward to the coming year, bringing new candidates into Royal Arch Masonry, and most of all, enjoying their time as members of the Order.
As all fine things must eventually come to an end, Alan Routledge had a pleasant duty to carry out, he presented Stewart Cranage with flowers and a bottle of whisky in appreciation of his visit to Red Triangle Chapter. Stewart expressed his thanks to all of the companions, and that he was delighted to receive these gifts on his first official visit as an Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals.
It was then time for the janitor’s toast, delivered with aplomb by the janitor, Thomas Lunt. Following this toast, all the companions, visitors and guests departed with happy memories of a very enjoyable evening.