On a bright and sunny August day, Companions from across the country gathered in Leeds for the Annual Meeting of the District Grand Council of West Yorkshire. The event commenced with a welcoming breakfast of bacon sandwiches and coffee, providing an opportunity for fellowship before the formal proceedings began.
The meeting was officially opened by the Right Illustrious District Grand Master, Fraser McPherson, who extended a warm and hearty Yorkshire welcome to all present. Following the opening, the regular business of the meeting was conducted, which included:
- The adoption of new District By-Laws
- The appointment of new District Grand Officers
A highlight of the meeting was the announcement of two £5,000 donations from the 150 Festival Fund Appeal, benefitting the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Andy’s Man Club. Vickie Cowan from the YAA and Agunwa Umeokafor from AMC, were present throughout the morning providing information for visiting Companions, and later joined us at the Festive Board.
The Festive Board itself was a memorable occasion, welcoming distinguished guests including:
- R.W.Bro. J Trevor Bolton, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for the Mark Degree in West Yorkshire, who, though not a member of our Order, expressed his pleasure in joining the celebration.
- RW Bro. (and R.Ill.Comp.) James H Newman, the Provincial Grand Master and Grand Superintendent for the Province of Yorkshire West Riding.
Having both the Craft Provincial Grand Master/Grand Superintendent, attending alongside the Mark Provincial Grand Master, as well as other local Heads of Order and national Rulers, highlighted the unity of Freemasonry within our Districts and Provinces.
The meeting and Festive Board were a testament to the strength of our fellowship and the shared commitment to our Masonic values and charitable efforts.