It was a bitterly cold and blustery evening outside of Ormskirk Masonic Hall. This contrasted with the warmth and hospitality which met visitors to Stanley of Bickerstaffe Chapter No 3511, which was consecrated on 12 October 1934.
The installation convocation of Stanley of Bickerstaffe Chapter was opened in due form by the three principals; David Southward as first principal, Paul Smith as second principal and Anthony Prior as third principal, expertly assisted by director of ceremonies Greg Pinnington, assistant director of ceremonies Frank Umbers and the officers and companions of the chapter.
The three principals then conducted the business of the convocation, which included the very pleasing news that two new candidates were successfully balloted for. The director of ceremonies and assistant director of ceremonies then retired to form the procession. Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Ryan Modlin entered and announced that the chapter was honoured by the presence of Second Provincial Grand Principal Andrew Whittle. Andrew was accompanied by John Doyle, Stephen Dunn, Chairman of Ormskirk and Bootle Group and by four acting Provincial grand officers; Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, Richard Atly and Provincial Grand Stewards, Tommie Grimes, Stephen Oliver and Stephen Williams.
Andrew was then warmly welcomed into the chapter by David who offered Andrew his sceptre, which he politely declined. David Southward thanked all of the officers and companions of the chapter for their help and support during his year as first principal. Anthony Prior then installed Peter Hoyles into the third principal’s chair. Paul Smith then installed Anthony into the second principal’s chair and David expertly installed Paul into the first Principal’s chair.
The readings for the three principals were read by Kevin Chicken, Ian Clarke and Malcolm Sandywell. Paul then requested scribe Nehemiah admit all remaining companions and the three principals were then declared to be installed. The officers of the chapter for the ensuing year were then invested. The first principal’s robe address was delivered by Ian Tupling, the second and third principals’ addresses were delivered by Malcolm Sandywell. Andrew then rose to address the companions of the chapter.
Once the director of ceremonies had informed the first principal that the ceremony of installation had concluded, Andrew rose and congratulated the three principals on behalf of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews. He then wished the new principals and all the companions of Stanley of Bickerstaffe Chapter the very best of health and hoped that this thriving chapter would enjoy a great future.
Andrew was then presented with the chapter’s charity donations, which totalled £1,050, which Andrew thanked the chapter for on behalf of the charities. The donations were, £400 to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, £400 to Ormskirk Masonic Hall and £250 to Derian House. Andrew thanked the companions of the chapter for their generous donations.
Alms were then taken. During the first rising, Andrew presented Robbie Freeney with his Royal Arch certificate. The director of ceremonies assembled the procession to recess out of the chapter room, led by the acting Provincial grand officers followed by John, the group chairman and Andrew.
The chapter installation convocation was then closed following the completion of the remaining risings. The companions retired to the bar and then to the festive board, where they enjoyed a delicious meal of mushroom soup, followed by roast beef, followed by a cheese board with tea and coffee.