It was a wild and wintry day on Friday the 5th December, howling wind and horizontal rain, greeted visitors to the English Riviera at Torquay. The early arrivers settled in to their accommodation and made their evening arrangements, three of the gathering struck out into Babbacombe. You know what they say about three master masons sojourning in Babbacombe….?!
The following morning gave a brighter picture as we all made for the Masonic Hall at Marychurch, an interesting arched post war building, set back from the road, well hidden was the phrase used by one visitor.
Light breakfast snacks and some home made cakes (by the Intendant Generals wife Antonia) with hot coffee and tea on tap, greeted the guests from far and wide as well as the membership of the Division.
General chat and banter was called off by the Divisional Marshal V.Ill.Kt. Roy Ruddling as the processions formed for the Divisional Meeting. At 10.30 the Intendant General, Rt.Ill.Kt. Nicholas StJohn Middleton White, processed into the Conclave. He opened the Conclave in due form and the business began.
The High Prelate gave the Requiem to Worthy Knights who had died during the year, silence was observed in memory of departed merit.
The Intendant General welcomed every one and went through the distinguished visitors from other divisions as well as heads of orders locally, all of whom responded enthusiastically.
Reports were given and votes passed. The Intendant General then re appointed his Deputy, Ill.Kt. John Redman. The IG commented on the qualities and commitment that John had brought to the role and the support he had received from John.
The officers of the Division were then presented for appointment by the Divisional Marshal and his Deputy Ill.Kt Paul Ackland. They were also assisted by the Captain of the Sepulchre Guard and members of the Guard.
The guard was inspected and the newest recruit, W.Kt.David Brett was invested.
The address by the Intendant General congratulating all appointed today and thanking the Divisional Recorder P.Kt. Mick Carter, for his excellent work in organising this important event. The address was well received and we moved to the closing with everyone looking forward to the drinks and festive board.
At the hotel. W.Bro. Tim Golder Assistant Provincial Grand Master (Craft Devonshire) attended and was welcomed by the throng of Worthy Knights. We settled down to a hearty meal of Pate, Roast Pork followed by Apple Pie. Wine was taken with the Past Deputy Grand Sovereign, Past Intendant General, the distinguished guests and Sepulchre Guard.
The Intendant General then called the Divisional Marshal to him and made a presentation of a voucher and some flowers for his wife as a token of thanks from the Division for his years of service. The role now in the hands of Ill.Kt. Mark Richardson. In making the presentation, the Intendant General commented on some of Roy’s past endeavours in riding the Isle of Man TT on a Triumph Bonneville 668cc, and his sailing competitively in the Finn Class of boat.
The usual toasts were observed, the toast to the Intendant General given by the Deputy elicited an emotional response from the Intendant General.
The proceedings concluded, farewells exchanged and all departed to their own homes…. except three master masons… who went back to Babbacombe for the evening before heading home on Sunday.
