On 28 October, Prince Alfred Lodge No 1218 received the Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Southern Area, WBro Wes Marchant PSGD, accompanied by Grand and Provincial Officers: the AGPM introduced WBro Nigel Johnson PAGDC and WBro Bruce Robbins PProvDepGDC, respectively. The WM offered the gavel to the APGM, who declined, leaving WBro Andy Bain to continue the installation and to appoint and invest his officers.

One significant aspect of the installation was that both the Wardens’ chairs were occupied by Light Blues. Also noteworthy was the support in delivering the Address to the Brethren and the Address to the SW from WBro David Leech PGStdB, now an Honorary member of the Lodge, who served it for many years. Some years ago, WBro Leach presented the lodge with his father’s Past Masters Jewel; it is kept boxed and in a safe, as it is a remarkable jewel crafted in pure gold.

The ensuing Social Board was well attended, and aside from those in the lodge room, several visitors attended, including a past member of the lodge looking to rejoin, accompanied by his son and a friend who were also interested in joining.

The APGM noted that he was pleased to attend the lodge on this occasion, as in previous years it had clashed with his other Masonic duties. The District Chairman was also, no doubt, pleased to have attended, winning a prize in the raffle.