WBro Mike Gibbons, JP, PJGD, PAPGM, served the District of Bury for fourteen years, as Press Officer, Secretary, Deputy Chairman and finally Chairman. Mike stood down as Chairman to take the office of Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Eastern Area, an office from which he has since resigned.

The present and past District Officers for Bury, who had worked with Mike in his tenancy as Chairman, joined Mike and his wife Carole at a celebratory meal at Owens Restuarant in Ramsbottom to say a big ‘thankyou’ to Mike for all the work he had done for Bury District. Joining us for this celebration we were pleased to welcome WBro Norman Cope, PSGD, APGM, and his wife Christina. Also present were WBro John Griffin, ProvGDC, and his wife Sue. John had been Mike’s predecessor as District Chairman before being called to higher office.

 The commitment and dedication Mike has always shown for the District was recorded in the very warm, heartfelt and very justly deserved tribute Norman gave to Mike. Norman also paid tribute to Carole, expressing his belief that the support of his wife was essential to any dedicated mason.

The present District Chairman, WBro Steve Barton, PProvSGW, had great pleasure in presenting Carole with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, while Mike was presented with his prize for winning the quiz in the Bury District Newsletter. Steve also expressed his gratitude to Mike for the tremendous amount of help and support he had been given as the ‘new boy’ in the District.

Although no longer in office Mike will be kept busy in his role as a Justice of the Peace and with his work for the Citizens Advice Bureau. He is also due to take office as Worshipful Master of the Lodge of Merit.

Mike thanked all present for the support he had received as Chairman and for attending this celebration. Both he and Carole had very much enjoyed the evening.

This was a very enjoyable and convivial evening when all present were able to share their thanks and respect for Mike, not only as their former Chairman but also as a true friend.