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Province of Devonshire & Cornwall Annual Provincial Priory - Saturday 12th October 2024

The sleepy little tourist village of Tintagel in deepest Cornwall, the home of the Legends and Myths of King Arthur and his Knights, was invaded by an army of150 Knights from all parts of the Country including 45 distinguished visitors on Saturday 12th October bearing swords and Knightly Regalia!   The occasion was to celebrate the Annual Chapter of the Provincial Priory of the Province of Devon and Cornwall.   On arrival the Knights had the opportunity to renew old acquaintances and make new ones - some even made a quick visit to  the local 'home made' pasty shop to make provision for lunch the following day!   At 10.45am the Knights took their places in the wonderful old granite hall and the Distinguish guests, and Great Priory Officers processed into the 'Hall of Chivalry, followed by the Right Eminent Prior, Rt.Em. Kt. F.R. Thomas.   All appropriate Salutes were then carried out and the Rt. Em. Prior then welcomed the Distinguished guests and every Knight who was attending.   He then carried out the business of the meeting in his usual efficient and good humoured manner.    During the meeting it was agreed that £2,500 should be donated to the St. John Eye Hospital in Jerusalem   The Provincial Sub-Pryor then opened a Provincial Priory of Malta and carried out the business of that Priory in a similar manner.   The assembled Knights then retired to the Bowood Golf Hotel in Camelford for a most enjoyable lunch in which most found the Honey Glazed Lamb and Sticky Toffee Pudding meal much to large to finish!   Another great meeting in the historic venue of King Arthur's Hall of Chivalry - with just one sad note - we all missed the presence of our retiring Sub Prelate, E.Kt. Allan Seagar P.Gt. Her. who was struck down with sickness.  Many thanks for all those years of hard work Allan!!  Take care and get well soon!!!     To see the photos of the Meeting click here Photographs by Chris Haliburton    --------------------   ~   --------------------

Bernard Winsor's funeral Further to my earlier news report the funeral E.Kt. Bernard Dennis Winsor will be held at Torbay Crematorium on Barton Road, Torquay at 11.30 am on Thursday 15th August 2024. Bernard’s family would like to invite all who would wish to attend for a light buffet and refreshments at the Torquay Central Conservative Club after the service. If possible please confirm whether you will be attending the Conservative Club by either responding to this email or contacting W. Bro. Denis Holding on 07847 202 408 or 01803 392131.   Sad news about Bernard Winsor It is with great sadness that I have to announce that E.Kt. Bernard Dennis Winsor passed away today, 11th July 2024 at the age of 94. Bernard, who was probably best known in The Red Cross Degree as the man who formed the Sepulchre Guard in 1999 and remained as its Captain for 19 years. He was a member of Royal Sussex Preceptory No.25 for 24 years and reached the high rank of Past Deputy Great Sword Bearer as well as high Ranks in many other orders. A great character who will be sadly missed! Funeral details to follow ~~~~~~~~~~   *   ~~~~~~~~~~ KT Sunday Lunch on 9th June 2024 at Fingle Glen.   52 Knights from across Devon and Cornwall greeted each other and renewed old friendships at Fingle Glen Golf Club on Sunday 9th June 2014 for the annual KT Sunday Lunch.   They were welcomed by our Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Richard Thomas and our Sub Prior, E.Kt. Allan Seagar, and how nice it was to see our new Sub Prior designate, E.Kt. Andrew Yelland at the Lunch.   Click here to see photos of KT Sunday Lunch 09-06-24 --------------------   ~   -------------------- Bartélemy de Quincy Preceptory Meeting 23rd April 2024   On 23rd April, I made a journey to Knowle to attend the Installation ceremony of the Bartélemy de Quincy Preceptory, of which I’m a founder member.   The Preceptory was formed in the Province of Warwickshire for Past Great and Provincial Marshals and Deputy Marshals, nation-wide and meets twice a year in various venues around the country.   It’s first Preceptor was R.E.Kt Tim Wheeler, the Great Marshal and he was installed by the R.Em.Kt Roger Dixon KTC in the presence of the M.Em & Supreme Grand Master Kt. Paul R. Clement GCT.   After his year in the chair, the Eminent Preceptor handed the reins over to his successor E.Kt. A.P.F. Foster in exemplary manner and a great time was had by all.   As the only member from Devonshire and Cornwall, I was honoured with the post of 2nd Herald and look forward to the future meetings of the Preceptory.   The photograph is of the Knights who attended the meeting.   Report & Photo by Leslie Dacombe our Deputy Marshal     --------------------   ~   --------------------   Appointment of New Sub Prior in October Our Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Richard Thomas is pleased to announce that he will be appointing the new Provincial Sub Prior for Devonshire and Cornwall, Em Kt Andrew Yelland. Andrew is an active member of 3 Preceptories in our Province, F Preceptory where he is the Deputy Marshall, Vera Crux where he is the Marshall and Tamar where he is the Registrar as well as being the Deputy Commander of the Provincial Prior’s Bodyguard. Andrew has also been a great supporter of the Province generally, attending and supporting other Preceptories and Provincial events such as Official Visits and our Spring lunches. I look forward to investing Andrew to his new position at the Provincial meeting in October at Tintagel and I know you will join with me in congratulating him on his preferment. Brought up in Brixham, Andrew left to train at St George’s Hospital Medical School, London. Having completed his training he was appointed as a Consultant Surgeon in Brighton. He relocated back to the south west in 2016.I Initiated, passed and raised in True Love and Unity Lodge, 248 he became Master of Lanesborough Lodge, 3029 (the St George’s Hospital Lodge) in 1995 and also was master of the Royal Clarence Lodge, 271 in Brighton in 2015. He also was first principal of the Lennox chapter, 271 in 2004 and 2014.nstalled into De Warenne Preceptory, 126 in 2010 he was Eminent Preceptor in 2016 and gained provincial rank as Aide-de-Camp in 2018. Returning to Devon he came a member of three preceptories is in Devon - Union or Rougemont ,F, Vera Crux, 654 and Tamar, 625 and was promoted to Past Provincial Registrar in 2020. Andrew became Provincial Deputy Commander of the Bodyguard in 2022 and was appointed Grandmaster’s Banner Bearer in 2024. Married to Dianne he has two children and enjoys walking, fishing and shooting as time permits!  --------------------   ~   --------------------

Dear Brother knights.

Please see the letter below from our Provincial Prior, R.E. Kt. Richard Thomas....

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Trinity in Unity Preceptory No 19 Enthronement Meeting - 25th January 2024

A bout of sickness having overtaken our Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. Jamie Dawson,

A visitor, E.Kt. Keith Rigby, who had travelled up from Budleigh Salterton volunteered to act as Eminent Preceptor.  And what an excellent job he made of it!

22 Knights braved the traffic problems in North Devon, including our Provincial Prior, R.E. Kt. Richard Thomas, and attended Trinity in Unity Preceptory No 19 to see Kt. John Stone installed as Eminent Preceptor for the forthcoming year.

E.Kt. Stone then installed his officers and continued the rest of the Preceptory business in a most professional manner

The knights then retired to refectory for an enjoyable festive board.

The whole evening, both ceremony and festive board had a very happy feel about it!

Another enjoyable evening in Barnstaple!
 

K.T. Autumn Lunch - Fingle Glen 28/10/18

Now one thing I hate doing is collecting money at this sort of event, but one or two people, through unavoidable circumstance had promised me a cheque on the day and they were rapidly given to me on their arrival  -  But there's always one!!  A certain Knight who shall be nameless but who has the same surname as a very well known Welsh Singer, much to the embarrassment of his lovely wife, used the old excuse that he had left his cheque book at home and he promised to put a cheque in the post on Monday Morning. I replied that that would be fine, and that I'd put his lunch in the post on Tuesday afternoon!!

We were soon sitting down with enjoyable Christian Company to partake of the Autumn Lunch and the meal was followed by a couple of short and entertaining speeches.

All in all a most enjoyable Family Autumn Lunch!!

To view the photos of the day click here

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To view the photos of the day click here

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G.P. Meeting followed by Launceston Malta Meeting 28th September 2018

The final meeting to be presided over by our Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies was the General Purposes Committee Meeting held at Launceston, prior to the St. Thomas Priory Malta Meeting.

Following the usual business of the meeting our Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Richard Thomas, presented an engraved tankard and a bottle of 'something very nice' dated 2011 - the year that Peter became Provincial Pryor - to the Provincial Prior on behalf of the members of the Province to thank him for all the work he has done over the last seven years.

After the G.P. meeting the Malta meeting then took place in which E.Kt. Richard Mably was installed as Eminent Prior for the ensuing year by E.Kt. Roger Norman in a superb manner despite several of the main officers being away.  Needless to say some of the visitors were happy to be called into action.

We then retired to a most enjoyable and ample festive board with good food, good Christian company and short speeches!

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Christian Orders Church Service - Plymouth - Sunday 23rd September 2018

 
A Soggy Sunday morning met us when we awoke and prepared to drive down to Plymouth for the Annual Christian Order Degrees Church service at The Church of the Ascension at Crownhill, Plymouth on Sunday 23rd September.

They say that the sun shines on the righteous!  Well we must have all been pretty good over the last few days because a s we got closer and closer to Plymouth the sun came out and all was right with the world.

When we arrived at the Church the first people we bumped into were Roger Guest and John Whitfield from North Devon!

The next half hour was spent in re-kindling old friendships and catching up with the news from Freemasons from all over Devon and Cornwall

Maurice Eglinton had made a superb job of organising the whole service, taking care of every detail and even adding the sheet music to the Service Order Program.

Father Tim Thorp made us all very welcome, and the readings were carried out in very professional manners by Dr. Warner Barton, Richard Lucas and Graham Lea.  The Devonshire Masonic Choir, under the leadership of Barrington Sowden, wowed the crowd with two superb performances and all the music was played superbly by Roger Freeman on the fairly new Organ partly funded by Freemasons.

After a super and meaningful address by Father Tim, Michael St.J. French thanked everyone and we then had refreshments in the church.

We finished off a superb day by joining Richard and Marilyn for a meal at the Jack Rabbit before making our way back to Barnstaple.

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The Mandylion Preceptory No.628 Official Visit 29th August 2018

Nearly sixty Knights from all over the Province journeyed to Ivybridge on Wednesday 29th August to take part in the last Official Visit by our Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies to one of his Preceptories in Devonshire & Cornwall.

A great many Active and Great Officers accompanied our Eminent Prior and our Eminent Sub Prior, E.Kt. Richard Thomas into the Preceptory under an Arch of Steel provided by the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard under the leadership of the Deputy Commander of the Bodyguard, E.Kt. Brian Luford.  They were received by E.Kt. Robin Barnard as acting Preceptor.

And what a superb Ceremony E.Kt. Robin and his team carried out.  As our Provincial Prior said to the Candidate, William Philip, "It will be a long time until you will see such a good ceremony again".

The knights then retired to the refectory for a festive board in good Christian company.

A fitting meeting for the last Official Meeting of our Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies

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Provincial Appointments and Promotions 2018/19

At the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel on Saturday 13th October 2018 the Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Peter Davies will be pleased to confer the following honours on the Knights listed:-

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Provincial Prior makes an announcement

Click here to read the Provincial Prior's Letter

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 Annual Provincial Meeting at Tintagel Saturday 13th October 2018

Because of the business to be carried out at our Annual Meeting at Tintagel in October the meeting will follow a slightly different format to those that have gone before.

The whole meeting will take place in the morning with the Knights retiring to a Festive Lunch at the Royal Cornwall Pavilion Centre at Wadebridge.

More details to follow as soon as they have been finalised - but pleas reserve this date in your diaries.

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 Error on the Web Site

Worthy Knights,

I have to admit to an error on the web.  The next Official  Visit was originally shown to be to Mandylion Preceptory No.628 on the 28th August.  This was incorrect.  The next Official Visit, and the last by our current Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies, will be to Mandylion Preceptory No.628 at Ivybridge on Wednesday 29th August

Please accept my apologies for the error on the site!  And please enter the correct date in your diaries

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Launceston Castle Preceptory No.480 Installation - Monday 25th June - Official Visit - The Doggy Bagger Re-Appears!!

What a pleasure it was after a six months driving ban (which turned into eight months by the bureaucracy of the DVLA) to be able to drive our Provincial Commander of the Bodyguard, E.Kt. Paul Ackland PGWofReg, who has so kindly driven me many miles over the last eight months!

Our journey from Barnstaple to Launceston took place in superb sunshine and on arriving at Launceston Masonic Hall the number of cars in the car park told us that we were in for a good night!

Over forty Knights from places as far afield as Truro and Basingstoke and including our Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies (from Chippenham) and our Provincial Sub-Prior, E.Kt. Richard Thomas (from Plymouth) had travelled to watch the Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. Roger Norman install his successor, Kt. Richard Mably into the chair of the Preceptory.

The whole meeting was enhanced by the presence of  twelve of the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard and I was delighted to be asked to act as the Provincial Sword Bearer in the absence of E.Kt. Clapham who had sent his apologies.  I had forgotten what a superb sword our Province is blessed with!

The other business of the evening was then carried out during which the Provincial Prior presented a Great Priory Certificate in his usual inimitable style.

The Brother Knights then retired to the refectory for a festive board that, whilst a little while in arriving, was most enjoyable with ample portions for all.

The speeches after the festive board were short and to the point with all the assembled Knights hanging on every word from the Provincial Prior in an attempt to get a clue as to who his successor might be - but he was giving nothing away!

And the Doggy Bag??  Those of you who are in Red Cross may well remember the antics that a certain Dave Silman used to get up to at the festive boards to obtain food and titbits for his dog Dave Silman and his 'plastic bags'.  Dave always had a plastic bag in his pocket to take home leftover scraps for his best friend Tynan!

Well, we've now got our own Doggy Bagger in KT.  I'll not mention his name for fear of embarrassing him but this photo might give you a clue.....

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 Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies Announces that he will be Standing Down as Provincial Prior on Friday 12th October 2018

Attached is a letter from Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies which is self explanatory.

In another email he has expressed his wish that as many Provincial Officers as possible should support him at his last two Official Visits, Launceston Castle No.480 on 25th June and Mandylion on 28th August.

Our Provincial Prior has served us well over the past seven years and I know we will all be sad to see him stand down but hope to see him around the Province.

Click here to read the Provincial Prior's Letter

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Trinity in Unity No.19 Malta Meeting at Barnstaple - Thursday 26th April 2018

Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 always tries to provide it's members and visitors with something different and the meeting on Thursday 29th June kept up that tradition.

The Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. Ian Pollock would be one of the first to admit that he is not a brilliant ritualist, and, because we had a new Knight to install and wished to give him the best ceremony we could muster, the evening became a great example of teamwork with several past Preceptors carrying out different parts of the ceremony, overseen by Em.Kt. Ian and choreographed by the Marshal Em.Kt. Paul Ackland.  The Candidate, Companion Kelvyn Bond, acted out his part superbly and the Charge was delivered by our most senior member, Em.Kt. Bernard Bidgood who, at he age of ninety, gave a faultless performance!

After completing the remaining business of the evening the Knights retired for an enjoyable Festive Board and speeches which included, in the toast to the Eminent Preceptor, reference to him being "One of a kind" which none of us would disagree with"

The visitors were then well on their way by nine o'clock.

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St John of Jerusalem Preceptory and St Michael Priory No.611 - Official Visit  26/04/17 - who is that ice cream seller??

 
A lovely sunny afternoon, and the prospect of being chauffeured boded well for my visit to the Knights Malta Official Visit to Newquay.

I'd forgotten what a lovely Temple it is at Newquay with its Gold Chairs, wooden parquet flooring and large blue decorated walls adorned with many splendid banners and Honours Boards.  If you've never visited Newquay Temple then you should!!

With several members unavoidably absent twenty six knights saw the Provincial Sub Prior and his party enter under an Arch of Steel provided by the Provincial Bodyguard and were then treated to a most excellent ceremony in which the Prior, E.Kt. Angus Herdman installed Kt. Simon Bennett as a Knight of Malta with the history being given by our Sub Prior, E.Kt. Richard Thomas, in a superb manner.

The meeting then continued with E.Kt. Bill Lissamer being installed as Eminent Prior of St. Michael Priory No.611.  He then invested his officers in a most proficient manner.

Following the meeting the knights then retired to a local hostelry, The Griffin Inn, for a most enjoyable festive board, and with short speeches and fast driving my chauffeur, E.Kt. Paul Ackland, still got me home just before midnight!

And the ice cream seller?  On entering the Temple I notice a certain knight apparently looking for something behind some chairs.  When he stood up he was holding a Walls Ice Cream container and it looked for all the world as if E.Kt. Ed Purkis had been appointed official Ice Cream Seller during the intermission

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The Mandylion Preceptory No.628 Installation Meeting - 31/03/17  -  A Wealth of Experience!

The wealth of experience of the officers sitting on the top table at the festive board which followed the Mandylion Preceptory No.628 installation on Friday 31st March 2017 at Ivybridge showed why their ceremonies are so good!

Driving down from Barnstaple I was lucky enough to secure the last parking space in the car park beside the Lodge (and only found out afterwards that I needn't have put my two pounds into the parking machine because parking is now free on Lodge nights!).  The welcome by the nights of Mandylion was as warm as ever and I was soon catching up with the news from friends old and new.

After processing in with our Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, our Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Richard Thomas and an array of Great Officers and active Provincial Officers we took our seats to watch the forthcoming ceremony.  The business of the evening was to install Em.Kt. Michael Jones as Eminent Preceptor (a position he didn't know that he was going to get until a couple of weeks ago due to illness of the EP Elect!).

Because Em.Kt. Colin James has been so ill for some time, Em.Kt. Phil Ratcliff has been carrying out the duties of Eminent Preceptor over the past year and he installed Em.Kt. Michael in a superb manner, opting to use the full installation ritual rather than the shortened version which could have been used.  In fact he only hiccupped over one word in the obligation when, to the amusement of the assemble knights Em.Kt. Michael used his experience and quickly prompted Em.Kt. Phil despite being the 'candidate'!!

The whole ceremony was carried out in an excellent manner with both eminent knights allowing their humour to shine through when it was appropriate which, far from detracting from the meeting was used in a way that enhance the meeting.  And all this under the watchful eye and superb direction of the Marshal Em.Kt. Peter Keaty.

Our Provincial Prior then presented a Great Priory Certificate to Kt. Peter Broyd in a most experienced and competent manner.

The assembled knights then retired for a most enjoyable festive board with good company and short speeches.  A look at the photos below will show you what I mean by a wealth of experience on the top table!

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Great Priory Promotions and Appointments 2017

Many congratulations to the all and I know they will be delighted if you support them at the Great Priory Meeting on 17th May!

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The Royal Sussex Preceptory No.25 - Official Visit  08/03/17 -  parlez-vous français?

 
Over fifty knight from all over the Province of Devon and Cornwall descended on The Royal Sussex Preceptory No.25 at Torquay on Wednesday 8th March 2017 to take part in the Official visit by the Provincial Prior.

After a warm welcome and a good supply of tea and biscuits The Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, processed into the Preceptory accompanied by The Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Richard Thomas and a multitude of Active Provincial Officers and Great Officers under an Arch of Steel formed by the his Bodyguard under the direction of their Commander, Em.Kt. Paul Ackland, and  their Deputy Commander, Em. Kt. Paul Ludford.

The Provincial Prior was then proffered the Baton by the Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. Gerald Arnold and, on returning the Baton he was asked to present a Great Priory Certificate  to Kt. Daniel Read which he did in his normal inimitable way.

There then followed a most interesting talk by Em.Kt. Jan Olszewski entitled "Some Templar Terms Explained" which also gave those who had attended Torquay Grammar School the opportunity to practice their Latin and French but left many of us "dans l'ignorance" However Jan delivered the talk in a superb manner and all present were delighted to increase their Masonic Knowledge!

The election of Officers for the ensuing year then tool place in which Kt. John Lynes was elected as Eminent Preceptor, and Em.Kt. David Lee was elected Treasurer for the ensuing year.

The assembled knights then retired to the refectory for a most enjoyable festive board.

Another most enjoyable evening at Royal Sussex!

To see the photos of the meeting click here

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Devon and Cornwall Knights venture into the Shadowlands once again - Saturday 11th February 2017

Having had a successful visit to the Preceptory of Light Preceptory, in Warwickshire some two years ago and to ensure that their Knights were not slipping from the paths of truth and righteousness, it was decided that a cadre of Knights would sally forth once again, into the dark hinterlands of Warwickshire, to ensure that our missionary work had not been forgotten, or worse, perverted! Our quest took place on Saturday 11th February, 2017.

Consequently five fearless, but well armed Knights set off, before the sun had risen, to ensure the lessons had been well learned.  The Knights were, Em.Kt. Tony Jeffery, Em.Kt. Tony Turner, Em.Kt. Tom Pearman, Em.Kt. John Spencer and Em.Kt. Les Dacombe. All prepared to uphold the honour and dignity of the Province of Devonshire and Cornwall.

Last time, so that we could circle the wagons if necessary, we took a variety of vehicles, sharing mounts in time honoured tradition. This time we were more confident and decided one vehicle would suffice and so we shared one carriage between us. (In fact a Peugeot Boxer 12 seater, leant to us, free of charge by Dawlish Community Transport. A Charity well worth supporting.)

The reason for our journey was to attend and observe the Warwickshire Provincial Priory of Malta, having heard that it was only one of two Malta Provincial Priories in the country.  Brother Knights; the day was wonderful! The Province of Warwickshire has, indeed, taken us to its  bosom and made us so welcome that we were almost overcome.  Knights all around us recognised us from our last visit and from their visits to us and hailed us as brothers. We were feted and lauded and made to feel so at home that it was a wrench to leave.

The Provincial Prior of Warwickshire, R.Em.Kt. Roger Dixon and the Great Prior of Malta, V.Em.Kt. Johnathan Charles Whitaker JP, who also attended and is Devonshire born and bred, both spoke of our visit in their addresses to the assembled company and asked to be remembered to our Provincial Prior and Sub-Prior.

After a sumptuous repast at the festive board, it was time to take our leave, amongst many entreaties to return in the, not too distant, future and we wound our satisfied way back to the counties where the sun always shines and God takes his holidays.  We, again, had a very enjoyable and informative day, if a long one and I am pleased to report that the seeds we planted on our last visit have grown and blossomed.

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Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 - Installation Meeting - Thursday 26th January 2017

On a cold frosty evening knights from all over the Province were greeted by the first daffodils of the year as they drove into Trafalgar Lawn in Barnstaple for the installation meeting on Thursday 26th January 2017.

 A warm welcome awaited nearly 40 knights including the Provincial Prior, Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies, the Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Richard Thomas, the Past Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones and many other Great and and Provincial Officers

The Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. David Williams, quickly opened the Preceptory and dealt with the first few items on the summons, which included the presentation of a Great Priory Certificate to Kt. John Snow which was ably carried out by our Provincial Prior.  The E. Preceptor then proceeded to install Kt. Ian Pollock as Eminent Preceptor of the Trinity in Unity Preceptory in an excellent manner, and E.Kt. Ian then appointed his officers in the same vein.

A hearty Festive Board awaited the knights and following some short speeches the Provincial Prior announced that he was looking forward to getting home before midnight!

Several knights stayed on to partake of a 'nightcap' or two which provided a most amicable end to a superb night!

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Union or Rougemont Preceptory No.F Installation  Meeting in Exeter - 18th January 2017

Gandy Street was almost full to overflowing for the installation of Em.Kt. Alan McArthur as Eminent Preceptor!

Nearly 60 knights from all over Devon and Cornwall, including our Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, our Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Richard Thomas and our Past Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones, and a host of Great Officers and Provincial Officers assembled to watch the Eminent Preceptor ('Tony the Tie') Tony Clapham install his successor, Em.Kt. Alan McArthur in a superb manner.  The Provincial Prior, Great Officers and Provincial Officers processed into the Preceptory under a very precise Arch of Steel formed by the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard.

Because of the large number present the Marshal., Em.Kt. Les Dacombe ended up orchestrating a complicated version of musical chairs as the various Preceptory officers were invested, but the whole exercise was carried out with military precision, and Em.Kt. Alan's vast experience shone through as he invested his officers.

The knights then retired to the refectory, seeking some refreshment on the way, and partook of a festive board of the high standard that we have come to expect at Gandy Street.  The meal was followed by short but amusing speeches and we were all on our way home early.

And the reference to 'Tony the Tie'?  Well the installing Preceptor, Tony Clapham, has become notorious in another degree (Rose Croix) for wearing a psychedelic pink tie - how nice to see him in a 'respectable tie for a change!!

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Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 Meeting in Barnstaple - 24th November 2016

The new Sub Prior, E.Kt. Richard Thomas,was a very welcome guest when he made his first KT meeting visit to a Preceptory at Trinity in Unity No.9 in Barnstaple on Thursday 24th November.

He was joined by thirty other knights from all over the Province to see Comp. John Stone installed as a knight of our Order by the E. Preceptor, E.Kt. David Williams and his team in a superb manner which belied the fact that the two Constables were unavoidably absent.  Their 'stand ins', those old war horses E.Kt. Gwyn Thomas and E.Kt. John Whitfield, both did an excellent job in their respective roles and the whole ceremony was well 'choreographed' by the Marshal, E.Kt. Paul Ackland.  In the words of the candidate "I was struck with awe over the whole ceremony!"

The meeting then continued with the business of electing Kt. Ian Pollock as E. Preceptor for the ensuing year.

The knights then retired to a most enjoyable festive board with good food, good wine, good company and short speeches!

Another most enjoyable meeting in Barnstaple with everyone on their way home by 9:30!

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Autumn Sunday Lunch at Fingle Glen Golf Hotel - 06/11/15  -  How to improve your swing!

 
The Provincial Prior, Peter Davies, and the Provincial Sub Prior, Richard Thomas, asked me a few days before the Autumn Lunch to purchase some flowers for their Ladies, Lis and Ymma.  Without thinking I happily agreed but when the day came to purchase them I realised that I didn't have a clue as to what they preferred!  So in typical male fashion I delegated the job to the lovely Sandy, full knowing that if she got it right I could take the credit and if the flowers were wrong then I could blame her.  What would we do without our Ladies??

With Sandy at my side and picking up our Captain of the Guard, Paul Ackland we set off in plenty of time to arrive early at Fingle Glen so as to set up the place names etc.  On the way Paul regaled us with stories of how his golf was now improving and actually started talking about handicaps and how he might improve them.

The place names having been positioned and the superb view over the golf course having been admired we returned to the bar for refreshments and to await the other lunch guests.

At 12:30 we all moved to the the Hogan Room and bar, a private dining room and after renewing many old friendships we sat down at 1:00pm to enjoy a superb Sunday Lunch, cooked and served in a most proficient manner.  Indeed, my Shank of Lamb was so good that the meat almost fell off of the bone, and I would challenge anyone to finish the plate of cheese that was presented to me.

By 3:00pm the meal was over and the short speeches meant that everyone was able to leave without it being too late.  Everyone but us that is!!

On entering Fingle Glen Paul had been lured into the 'Pro' shop.  Seeing a likely customer the 'Pro' soon excited Paul's interest with a second hand set of clubs that were not only a bargain but were also 'guaranteed' to improve his game.  Now what keen, new golfer could resist that?  And, sure enough whilst everyone else was making their way home we were watching Paul 'try out' his possible new purchase on the golf range, and, of course, they improved his swing no end (with, of course, the help of the Pro!).  Having reached this stage how could he not succumb and buy them!!!

To see the photos of the Lunch click here

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Provincial Meeting at Tintagel - 8th October 2016

When E.Kt. Paul Ackland, the Commander of the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard, offered to drive myself and Dave Hingston down to the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel I had assumed that it would be in his rather nice Volkswagon Tiguan.  Instead he arrived at the crack of dawn at my house in his father in law's little Toyota which was about the size of a small dingy!  On our journey to Tintagel it demonstrated more properties of a dingy as it rolled on every corner, but its top speed of 60 mph did allow us to overtake at least one tractor!

By 8:45 we were in the Hall of Chivalry at Tintagel to find that preparations for the meeting were well under way.  Paul wasted no time in putting the Bodyguard through their paces with the assistance of his Deputy,  E.Kt. Brian Ludford whilst the rest of us were able to renew old friendships as knights from all over the Province began to arrive.

Whilst the men were preparing for the meeting the Ladies were gathering in the nearby car park for their trip to RHS Garden Rosemoor at Torrington.  I couldn't help feeling a little concern for the handsome young coach driver - one young male amongst so many lovely ladies - but perhaps I felt a little jealous!!

Time to set off to the Bowood Park Golf Club and set up the place names for those who were dining.  A few slight hiccups over the seating were soon expertly resolved by Nigel, the restaurant manager and, after some very sociable refreshments, over eighty knights sat down to a superb lunch served by the Golf Club's very obliging and efficient staff.

We were then able to return to the Hall of Chivalry in plenty of time to change for the meeting.

As last year there was no procession of the VIP's , but the guests were all welcomed warmly and individually by the Provincial Prior.

The meeting then proceeded apace with the Provincial Prior dealing with the business of the day in his usual casual, relaxed and efficient manner ably assisted by the Vice-Chancellor, E.Kt. Jan Olszewski.

After expressing his thanks and appreciation for the support that E.Kt. Michael Jones had given him over the past four years as Sub Prior (tribute speech link below), the Provincial Prior proceeded to invest Eminent Knight (Frederick) Richard Thomas, P.Gt.A-de-Camp as the Provincial Sub Prior.

The other Provincial Officers were then appointed and the Provincial Prior then inspected his Body Guard.

The Provincial Priory of Knights Templar was then closed and the Provincial Sub-Prior in his first act as Sub-Prior, conducted the business of the Provincial Priory of Malta, in a most proficient manner.
 

Once again Tintagel provided a grand setting for a most spectacular and most enjoyable Provincial Meeting

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Provincial Appointments and Promotions 2016/17

At the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel on Saturday 8th October 2016 the Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Peter Davies will be pleased to confer the following honours on the Knights listed:-

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Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 Malta Meeting in Barnstaple - 28th April 2016 - Leftenant or Lewtenant?

E.Kt. Mike Jones, the Provincial Sub Prior, was in excellent form when he presided over the Malta Meeting at Barnstaple on Thursday 28th April when nearly thirty knights watched as Kt. Brian Taylor was installed as a Knight of St. Paul by the E.Kt. Mike Nagle and his team in a superb manner and our Sub Prior carried out the accolade, the entrusting and the address faultlessly and made it even more interesting by including some details that we don't usually hear!

The E. Prior then continued his excellent performance when he installed E.Kt. David Williams as Eminent Prior.  E.Kt. David then appointed and invested his officers.

The knights then retired to a most enjoyable festive board with good food, good wine and good company (spoilt only by a certain knight dropping plates, spilling drinks and generally trying to wreck the place! - honour dictates that his name should not be published so I will only refer to him as the Deputy Provincial Grand Supreme Ruler in another "Secret" order!).

Another most enjoyable meeting in Barnstaple with everyone on their way home by 9:30!

And the Leftenant or Lewtenant?  It seems that our new Eminent Prior had the same problem that I had at the Provincial Meeting in Tintagel with the pronunciation of Lieutenant!!  Apparently Leftenant is the English pronunciation.   I agree with David - where is the "F" in Lieutenant???

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New Sub-Prior

The R.E. Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Peter Davies, has announced that he will be appointing a new Sub-Prior in October this year.

He feels that as all the current executive officers of the Province are in, or on the verge of their 7th decade, it is time to apply a balance of experience and youth to secure continuity for the future of the Province. 

He will appoint and invest E.Kt. Richard Thomas, of Royal Veterans Preceptory No.10, at the Annual Meeting in The Hall of Chivalry, Tintagel, on 8th October 2016.

The Provincial Prior wishes to pay tribute to the splendid commitment and sterling service given by E.Kt. Mike Jones over the last 18 years, travelling within this and other Knight Templar Provinces. He served as Provincial Guard from 1998 - 2003, Vice-Chancellor from 2008 - 2012 and Sub-Prior from 2012. He has been pro-active in all matters concerning the Province with particular responsibility for attending and contributing to the Malta Degree ceremonies.  His commitment, support  and loyalty to the Provincial Prior and the Province have been outstanding. His will be big shoes to fill !

We wish him well.

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Great Priory Promotions and Appointments

Many congratulations to the all and I know they will be delighted if you support them at the Great Priory Meeting in May!

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Restormel Preceptory & St. Andrew Priory No.90 Installation Meeting Saturday 20th February 2016

An early start from Barnstaple and a two hour drive through the mist to Hayle left us enjoying a most welcome cup of coffee and biscuits on our arrival at Restormal Preceptory No. 90 at Hayle, until it came to light that I had forgotten one of our highest ranking knights!!

Most of us are nervous at carrying out one installation ceremony but the Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. Spencer Spoors, not only carried out the installation of his successor, Kt. Paul Roberts, as Eminent Preceptor of Restormal Preceptory in a superb manor but then, after a short break, he continued in the same vein to install E.Kt. Paul as Eminent Prior of the St. Andrew Priory of Malta!

This being an Official Visit by our Provincial Prior, Rt. E.Kt. Peter Davies and his provincial officers, he and our Provincial Sub Prior proceeded into the priory with all due pomp and ceremony under an Arch of Steel formed by the Provincial Bodyguard .

The assembled company of nearly fifty knights from all corners of the Province of Devonshire and Cornwall were treated to two faultless ceremonies by E.Kt. Spencer and his team under the guidance of their Marshals, E.Kt. Neville Don who then passed the duties to E.Kt. Keith Waters.

The daytime meeting culminated in a most enjoyable Festive Lunch with good food, good company and short speeches.

And the knight I left behind?  Originally another knight from North Devon had promised to drive us and we had all agreed to meet at my house at 8:15.  However our driver was unable to come due to work pressures so I hastily talked our Commander of the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard, E.Kt. Paul Ackland into giving me a lift and he offered to pick me up at 8:00, completely forgetting that our 2nd Constable, E.Kt. John Whitfield, had booked to join us and was to arrive at my house at 8:15!!  John, being a very experienced and unflappable Mason checked with my wife and they both realised my mistake!  John then drove himself to Hayle in time for the meeting.  I'm most terribly sorry John - I owe you a drink!!

And my wife is still telling me what a stupid old codger I am!!

Spring Lunch - 29th March 2015

Despite losing an hour's sleep because of the change to British Summer Time, and despite the weather not realising that it was Spring, sixty six Knights descended on the Moorland Garden Hotel at Yelverton from all points of Devon and Cornwall on Sunday 29th March to enjoy meeting old and new friends and to support the Provincial Prior, Rt. E.Kt. Peter Davies and his lovely wife Lis, and the Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones and his equally lovely wife Sue for the KT Spring Lunch.

After renewing old acquaintances, and catching up on the news with friends, the assembled company moved to the dining room, which had superb garden views, to partake of a meal which was embellished with good company good conversation and good wine!

The speeches following the meal were agreeably short but paid suitable tribute to the Ladies to whom we owe so much.

All in all a most enjoyable day and I'm happy to report that the Provincial Sub Prior managed the whole meal without knocking anything over.

click hear to see the photos of the day

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St. John of Jerusalem Preceptory No.611 Installation and Official Visit.

Nearly 50 knights from all over the Province attended the Installation and Official Visit at St. John of Jerusalem Preceptory No.611 at Newquay on Tuesday evening 24th February.   The Provincial Prior, Rt. E.Kt. Peter Davies, was accompanied by the Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones, and many officers of Great Priory and Active Provincial Officers when they paraded in under an Arch of Steel provided by the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard led by their Commander by E.Kt. Paul Ackland.

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Tamar Preceptory No.625 Installation in Launceston - 07/02/15.  John Vooght in a bikini????

Saturday started well enough, with lovely sunshine and the promise of a great day out at Tamar Preceptory No.625 at Launceston for their Installation.  The five Knights in our car were all expressing what lovely weather it was until Em.Kt. John Vooght announced that "the sun is shining into my lounge so much that it's warm enough to sit in there with a bikini on"!!  The other four passengers in the car all had a sudden horrible vision which was enough to change the conversation rather rapidly!

Arriving at Launceston we were greeted warmly by many old friends,  and 32 Knights including the Provincial Prior, Rt. E.Kt. Peter Davies, and a host of Great Officers witnessed the installation of  Em.Kt. James Wonnacott into the chair of the Preceptory by Em.Kt. Michael Saffin.  The ceremony was carried out with the usual relaxed and confident manner that you would expect from a Preceptory with so many experienced Knights in their number.

Em.Kt. Wonnacott then made short work of appointing his officers (could that have anything to do with the rugby that was being televised later that afternoon?) and the assembled company retired for a most enjoyable Festive Board which included the rare treat of Venison.  The trip home was most enjoyable in the sunshine (but nobody mention John in his bikini!!!).

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Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 Installation in Barnstaple - 29/01/15

 At the Official Visit to Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19, on the occasion of their Installation, an impressive number of Active Provincial and Great Officers processed in  with our Provincial Prior, Rt. E.Kt. Peter Davies and our Provincial Sub Prior E.Kt. Mike Jones under an Arch of Steel formed by the Provincial Prior's Body Guard, Commanded by E.Kt. Paul Ackland.

The Installation was a superb example of teamwork under the guidance of the Marshal, E.Kt. Paul Ackland with E.Kt. Alan Cockman opening the Preceptory, and E.Kts. Roger Guest and John Whitfield installing Kt. Michael Nagle as Preceptor who then proceeded to invest his officers in a most accomplished manner.

The meeting was followed by a most enjoyable festive board with speeches short enough to allow the visiting knights to be on their way home by 9:30 o'clock.

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Union or Rougemont Preceptory ‘F’ Installation Meeting.

On Wednesday 21st January, The Knights of ‘F’ Preceptory together with many 'Great' Officers, Provincial Officers, The Provincial Prior and the Provincial Sub Prior gathered together at Gandy Street in Exeter to witness the Installation of their New Preceptor, Kt. William.R. Mesley by the Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt.John Spencer.

After proffering the baton to the Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, Em.Kt. Spencer installed his successor in a most proficient manner. Em.Kt. Mesley then continued the superb ceremony by appointing and investing  his officers.

After an excellent ceremony the assembled knights retired to the refectory for a superb festive board with good company and good food.

Autumn Sunday Lunch at Lanhydrock Hotel - 02/11/14

 
A lovely venue, great company, terrific food and short speeches plus the company of our ladies and families, what more could anyone ask for on a beautiful Autumn Day?

The Lanhydrock Hotel and Country Club at Bodmin provided a wonderful setting for the fifty six knights, their families and friends to enjoy the Autumn Sunday Lunch hosted by the Provincial Prior, Rt.Em. Kt. Peter Davies and his lovely wife Lis, and supported by our Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones and his lovely wife Sue and other members of the Executive (with their Lovely Wives!).

The meal was unbelievably good, with portions that even I couldn't manage and the way we were looked after from the moment we walked into the hotel was superb!

The only thing wrong with the whole event was that whoever created the 'Place Names' put the following message on the rear of the cards...
  "The Provincial Prior, Peter Davies and his wife Sue welcome you to the Autumn Lunch at Lanhydrock Hotel on Sunday 2nd November 2014"
Very nice, except that the Provincial Prior's wife is called Lis!!  Sorry Lis, names do seem to go wrong when I'm about as at a certain Red Cross meeting at Hayle!!

To see the photos of the Lunch click here

And to he who said I couldn't take a photo of him with a window behind him  -  WRONG!!

Provincial Meeting at Tintagel - 11th October 2014

After seeing the Ladies off on their visit to Padstow, and partaking of an excellent lunch at the Bowood Park Golf Club the Provincial meeting for 2014 was held in the revamped 'King Arthur's Great Hall' in Tintagel.  And what a spectacular occasion it was!!  About 150 Knights watched as the Provincial Prior Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies and the Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones paraded into the hall after the numerous distinguished guests and Provincial Officers.

The Provincial Prior warmly welcomed the Knights and then welcomed the distinguished Guests who had travelled from far and near to join us.

The meeting then continued as per the agenda with the appointment of officers being carried out in a relaxed but efficient manner.

The Rt.Em.Kt. Peter then addressed the assembled Knights.

The Provincial Priory was then closed and the Provincial Priory of Malta was opened by the Sub-Prior and the usual business was carried out.

By five o'clock we were all on our way home, many of us carrying pasties bought from the local bakeries - indeed, rumour has it that one Knight travelled home with eight pasties!!  He must be off to a great pastie party!!

And what sort of day did the Ladies have? 

A happy party of our ladies set off by coach for the lovely Elizabethan Manor at Prideaux House and then on to Padstow for lunch/shopping.

The weather was kind to us and we had a most enjoyable day. However, one of our ladies had an unfortunate accident at the house and was taken to hospital in Truro.
I hope that when you read this she is feeling very much better. Our thoughts are with her and her husband.

Many thanks to Sue Jones, our Sub Prior’s wife, for so efficiently organising our day out, and I look forward to seeing you all again on 10^th October 2015!

Elisabeth Davies.

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Provincial Appointments and Promotions 2014/15

At the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel on Saturday 11th October 2014 the Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Peter Davies will be pleased to confer the following honours on the Knights listed:-

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Counting is an art that the 'Savages of North Devon' seem to have a little trouble with!  You may recall that on opening the Preceptory some time ago the then Eminent Preceptor E.Kt. Alan Cockman gave the wrong number of knocks, well, the Priory of Malta held under the Trinity in Unity No.19 Banner suffered the same fate, when, on opening the Priory, the Guard replied with eleven knocks instead of the customary twelve!  Our Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones, on being offered the Chair by the Eminent Prior E.Kt. John Summers remarked that since we already seemed to be  operating the 'Barnstaple Workings' (as shown b the knocks) then he felt unable to conduct the meeting and would leave it in the hands or our E. Prior.

The meeting then continued with the Provincial Sub Prior giving an excellent explanation of the Great Priory Certificate to Kt. David Hingston.   Knights Andy Petherick and Julian Turner were then installed as Knights of Malta in a ceremony which was a perfect example of excellent teamwork which included the Accolade and the Address given in his usual superb manner by the Provincial Sub Prior.

E.Kt. John Summers then installed E.Kt. David Cousins as Eminent Prior and David then installed his officers in an excellent manner.

The knights then retired to take part in a most enjoyable and convivial festive board, with much of the conversation centred on how our acting Chaplain, E.Kt. Richard Speed had injured his hand and how, in another degree, could he manage to salute in the second degree?  Comments were also made about a certain member who was wearing brown shoes using the feeble excuse that these were the only shoes that he could get on following breaking his ankle!!

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At Great Priory Meeting in London on the 21st May...

   
The Grand Master will be pleased to promote the following members of our Province :

E.Kt. Michael Robin JONES              to Past Great Herald

E.Kt. Edwin Frederick PURKIS         to Past Great Herald

 E.Kt. Clifford David EARP                to  Past Great Warden of Regalia

Congratulations to all on well earned promotions!

Preceptory of Improvement

   
Our Provincial Marshal, Ed Purkis, is planning further Preceptories of Improvement  in the forthcoming months so that we may all keep our Sword Drill up to a good standard.  These will be held in local Preceptories depending on the interest expressed by the knights - Watch this space for more details!!

A Daytime Installation at the Tamar Preceptory No.625 at Launceston

A goodly array of distinguished knights, including our Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Peter Davies and our Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones, braved severe flood warnings to attend the Tamar Preceptory No.625 installation at Launceston on Saturday 1st February.

E.Kt. Jan Olszewski wasted no time in opening the Preceptory and dealing with the initial business of the meeting before installing his successor E.Kt. Mike Saffin as Eminent Preceptor of Tamar Preceptory No.625 who then invested his officers. As E.Kt. Mike was already an experienced past preceptor the entire meeting was completed in less than an hour leaving plenty of time for the assembled knights to enjoy renewing old friendships before the festive board.

A meal of Smoked Mackerel, Haunch of Venison and Cheesecake ensured that the knights were well catered for however the "Savages from North Devon" were somewhat good naturedly berated by the other knights for amply and lengthily hogging the cheeseboard!

Once again, another superb and friendly meeting at Tamar Preceptory - and many of us were home in time to watch most of the Rugby!!

Teamwork is the order of the day at Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 Installation in Barnstaple

Knights from all over the Province, led by the Provincial Sub Prior E.Kt. Mike Jones, were treated to a wonderful example of teamwork at Trinity in Unity  Preceptory No.19 at Barnstaple on Thursday 30th January 2014 when Em.Kt. John Summers led his team in the Installation of Kt. David Cousins as Eminent Preceptor of the Preceptory.

Before the Installation Ceremony E. Kt. Michael Jones presented Great Priory Certificates to two new members of No.19, Kts. Andy Petherick and Julian Turner with a most interesting explanation of the certificates and their history.

The Installation then proceeded under the guidance of the Marshall and with the assistance of E.Kts. John Whitfield and Roger Guest following which E.Kt. Davis Cousins appointed and invested his officers.

The meeting was followed by a most enjoyable festive board with speeches short enough to allow the visiting knights to be on their way home by 9:00 o'clock.

Union or Rougemont Preceptory ‘F’ Installation Meeting.

On 15^th January, The Knights of ‘F’ Preceptory gathered to witness the Installation of their New Preceptor, John Spencer.

After opening, the Baton was offered to the Provincial Sub-Prior who, unusually took it for longer than expected.   

A little behind the scenes planning by the Registrar and the Marshall allowed the Installation of a New Knight, Steve Searle into the Order without overloading the Preceptor with work at short notice.   The ceremony was a great success.

The Sub-Prior then returned the Baton to its rightful owner, Tony Jeffery, who installed his successor in a most competent and moving manner.

Ed Purkis is always keen to bring new members into KT.....

Ed Purkis has sent me a picture of the latest candidate that he wishes to propose into KT - his email is below....

Dear Alan

I thought the members might like to see a photo of someone who is desperate to join KT.

My Grandson is ready and fully equipped to join us.   His sword drill needs a little polish but I suppose that is in my hands.

I hope you have space for this on the website – I just did not want to put his face or name for the sake of pc.

Hope you had a good Christmas

Yours Aye

Ed

Trinity in Unity Preceptory No.19 Meeting - 28th November

Teamwork was the order of the day at the Trinity in Unity Preceptory No 19 meeting on Thursday 28th November at Barnstaple.

The Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. John Summers would be the first to admit that he is not the greatest ritualist in the world and so, with the assistance of the Marshal, E.Kt. Paul Ackland he put together a team of his officers and past Preceptors who all worked together in what was a seamless ceremony to install Companion Julian Turner as a Knight of our order.

Following the excellent ceremony Kt. David Cousins was elected Eminent Preceptor and E.Kt. John Croft was elected Treasurer for the forthcoming year.

The evening culminated in a most enjoyable festive board in the company of visitors form South Devon who were able to head towards their homes by 9:30pm

Warwickshire Visit to Union of Rougemont Preceptory - 20th November

Dear E.Kt. Jan,

                May I ask you to pass on my thanks to R.E.Kt. Peter and E.Kt. Michael and to accept my personal thanks for receiving me and my Warwickshire knights into your Provincial.  I appreciate that you must have been very tired after the meeting in Birmingham and the long journeys involved, there and back. We were given a wonderful reception by the knights of the Preceptory. It was particularly pleasing to be with Les Dacombe and to be part of a very special evening. The reception we received, the fellowship at the festive board and, especially, witnessing a superb ceremony added up to an evening to remember.

                May I wish you and the knights of Devonshire and Cornwall a happy Christmas and a happy, peaceful and healthy New Year

With very best wishes

Mike

R.E.Kt. Dr Michael Harrison,

Provincial Prior, Warwickshire

An open letter from our Provincial Marshal

Bro. Knights

Now the Annual meeting is well and truly behind us I would like to concentrate on the details of the ritual for KT.

The whole idea is to assist those members who are going thro’ the Preceptory offices, especially Marshal, Preceptor and Constables. 

I would like to give any member the opportunity to try his hand at a piece of the ritual and to help those in office to carry out their duties with a lot more ease.

In order to make travelling less arduous I would hope to move the meetings around the province – but this is up to you. 

I need to have a better idea of those who WILL attend and preferred dates, days and times of meetings.

Please talk to the members of your Preceptory and offer encouragement.

I would appreciate Alan Cockman putting notes about this on the website and ask you all to tell your members to keep in touch with his missives. 

Should anyone consider this to be a waste of time please do not hesitate to contact me and discuss the matter – we are well behind the other Provinces in the furthering of our ritual knowledge and expertise. 

If at any time you might think I can help please do not hesitate to make contact.   My phone number is 01872 241437.

I look forward to enjoying our Order in your company.

Yours Aye

Ed

KT Autumn Lunch 03/11/13  - 
"The food was good, the company excellent and those who missed it have only themselves to blame."
 

On Sunday morning, driving down the A39 from Barnstaple to deepest Cornwall in the rain the thought crossed my mind that £40 for two meals plus £15 for wine and £20 odd pounds for petrol was perhaps a bit pricey for a Sunday Lunch for me and my wife.  How wrong could I be!!!  The whole experience - for it was more than just a meal - was memorable!

From the moment that we walked into the Lanhydrock Hotel and Golf Club we were treated like Royalty.  The staff could not have been more attentive! A young lady greeted us at front the door and took any coats and bags that we might have and gently guided us to the wine waiter who took our orders.  We were then chaperoned into the Bar where members of our group who had arrived earlier were enjoying various forms of refreshment.
59 Knights and their wives dined in a comfortable private dining room on the first floor  with its own bar and views over the beautifully sculptured Golf Course.  The staff were not only most efficient but also genuinely cared that everything was 'right';  and the food was even better than the service.  I had Prawn Cocktail followed by Roast Pork and Sticky Toffee Pudding but the names in no way describe what was placed in front of me - it was without doubt one of the best meals that I've ever had!  I spoke to many of our group afterwards and I couldn't find anyone who could fault the meal, the service or the hotel.

Our Provincial Prior Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies and his wife Lis were perfect hosts and our Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones was suitably fortified enough by a supply of additional crackling to give an excellent toast to our Provincial Prior (which included a revealing tale about E.Kt. Ed Purkis - to hear it you should have been there!!!!).

Those of you who are members of Red Cross will have read on the web site of the antics of a certain dog owner and his 'doggy bag' - well it seems that this practice has crossed over into KT when a certain knight and his wife (whose identity I will not reveal but who is the current Provincial Junior Warden in Devonshire Craft) was seen to ask the staff for some silver foil in which to wrap up the pork which had just been too much for many of our knights!

Too costly a day?  No, the best value for money that I've had for some time!!

Click here to see the pictures

Provincial Meeting at Tintagel - 12th October 2013

In a packed hall at Tintagel the assembled Knights were delighted to find that the Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies had recovered enough from his recent operation to lead his team at the Provincial Meeting on Saturday 12th October.

And, probably very much against the advice of his wife Lis, he was also determined to host the 'pre-meeting' lunch at the Bowood Park Golf Club where the food was terrific, the company superb and the speeches short!

The Provincial Meeting was organised in a slick and professional manner and the whole team seemed to sense that because of his recent illness and his almost unexpected attendance this was a very special meeting.  The Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt. Michael Jones, the Vice Chancellor, E.Kt. Jan Olszewski and the Marshal, E.Kt. Ed Purkis had obviously done a tremendous amount of work to make the meeting a success and it certainly showed.

Once again the Bodyguard led by their Commander E.Kt. Bill Daw added style and dignity to the proceedings and the Order of Malta following the KT meeting was conducted in a superb manor by our Provincial Sub Prior.

But, for everyone, the highlight of the meeting was that our Provincial Prior was well enough to run the meeting!!

ps.. Ed Purkis has been handed a Malta jewel and a Knight’s sash (new condition) – if the owners will contact Ed Purkis he will arrange return.   Should he receive no contact he will sell it for charity.

To read the Provincial Prior's Address to the Meeting - Click Here

To enlarge the photos below just click on them then click on the 'back' arrow in the top left hand corner to return to this page.

Peter Davies - Latest Update - 2^nd October

I have today received an update regarding Peter's Operation and I know you will all be as pleased as I am that the operation is over.
Let's hope that Peter's recovery is swift and that he soon gets out of Lis's hair!!

Peter was admitted to Treliske yesterday for his gall bladder op.   it was successful and he returned home later in the day.

He is now resting, taking pain killers, and preparing for the Tintagel meeting.

He and Lis are most grateful for the continued interest.

Yours Aye

Ed

Peter Davies - Further Update - 24^th September

I have today received the following email from Ed Purkis which I am sure you would all like to see:-

The latest news on our Provincial Prior is that he is home for a while.  I took him home last evening with the knowledge that he is to have his operation next Tuesday (1st October) and will then have  to rest for two or three weeks.

As you will appreciate this encompasses the Tintagel meeting, but Peter being Peter he is determined to attend the Provincial Meeting.  We can only hope that our Knights, who no doubt will wish to show their concern for his wellbeing,  will give him an easy time and not crowd him too much!

He is, currently, very tired from ten days in Treliske Hospital but is his normal cheerful self and is now getting over the night time chatter of the nurses, the snoring of the other patients and  the regular checkups during the day.

Both Peter and Lis are very grateful for the continual interest displayed by the members of our Order – it is a very emotional time for them both.

I have no doubt that you would all like to join me in saying:-

Peter and Lis, we are all thinking of you both and have no doubt that the Good Lord will soon put this little hiccup behind you!!

Restormel Preceptory No.90 meeting Saturday 21st September

Before even entering the Preceptory at Hale the visiting Templars from Tamar took the opportunity to raid the local bakery for real 'Cornish Pasties'!  Their breakfast having been consumed they joined many other Knights from all over the Province at the Restormal Preceptory No.90 to witness, and take part in, a rare event.  Em.Kt. Lewis Hosking, the Eminent Preceptor, opened his Lodge and carried out the initial business before handing the baton to our Provincial Sub Prior Em.Kt. Michael Jones who, because of the sudden indisposition of our Provincial Prior, was to lead the Provincial Officers in a ceremony of installing a new Knight.

Our Provincial Prior would have been very proud of his team had he been able to see their performance!  With our Sub Prior acting as Preceptor and his Provincial Team directed by Em.Kt. Ed Purkis, the Candidate, Comp. R. Williams was installed in a most proficient manner which included work on the floor by Em.Kt. Richard Tucker - an old friend of the Candidate who had travelled down from Durham for the Ceremony.

The daytime meeting culminated in a most enjoyable Festive Lunch and the only thing that marred the whole meeting was the thought that our Provincial Prior was in Hospital.

And the news of Our Provincial Prior is that he's still in hospital undergoing tests previous to having his gall bladder operation.

Peter Davies - Update

I heard today from David Davies - Our Provincial Prior's brother, that Rt.Em.Kt. Peter is still in hospital in Truro. He was not sent home and hopes to have an operation on Wednesday or Thursday. 

Peter Davies

Our Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies was rushed into hospital last night (Saturday) with Pancreatitis and Gallstones.  The Doctors need to get rid of the infection of the Pancreas before treating the Gallstones so they have sent Peter home with antibiotics.

Once the infection is reduced they will deal with the Gallstones using keyhole surgery.

Peter will clearly be out of action for at least two weeks.

Peter, if you read this then rest assured that we are all thinking of you, get well soon, and don't be too much of a burden on Lis!!!

The Mandylian Preceptory No. 628 Official Visit - 28th August

 Over 52 Knights including over 20 Active Provincial and Great Officers joined  the Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies and the Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones on the Official Visit to Mandylian Preceptory  No.628 at Ivybridge on a very hot August evening last night.

They were treated to a superb ceremony by the Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. George Evatt OBE, and his team and Em.Kt. George, who at 86 must be one of the most senior (in years) Preceptors in the Country was almost faultless in his delivery - and, on the rare occasion when he did get it wrong corrected his delivery with a touch of that wicked sense of humour that we all know him so well for.

The candidate, Comp. Barrie Bannister-Evans could not help but be impressed by the whole ceremony but especially by the performances of those two stalwarts in Masonry, Em.Kt. Bill Daw who carried out the Charge and Em.Kt. Peter Hawken who explained the symbols of the Order.

The meeting then culminate in a most enjoyable Festive Board with good food, good company and speeches that were all restricted to 30 seconds which enabled those of us from the far outposts of the Province to arrive home by midnight!!  A most enjoyable evening was had by all!

Preceptory of Improvement at Launceston on 18th August

   
Our Provincial Meeting in October always proves to be one of the busiest of all K.T. Provincial meetings and no doubt some of its popularity is brought about by the venue.  No other Province can boast the splendour of a room full of Knights Templar in King Arthur’s Granite Hall in Tintagel.

It is for this very reason that our Provincial Marshal, Ed Purkis, is holding Preceptories of Improvement in order to ensure that our Sword Drill and Marching add even more to the spectacle that our guests have travelled from far and wide to see.

I was privileged to join ten other Knights (not only members of the Bodyguard but also rank and file Knights) at the latest Preceptory of Improvement at Launceston last Sunday. And what an interesting and instructional meeting it was. 

Trinity In Unity Preceptory No 19 at Barnstaple on 27^th June

A first ceremony for a newly installed team, a New Preceptor who readily admits that ritual is not his strong point, a candidate whose hearing is not what it used to be and a visit by the Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, the Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones and the Provincial Marshal, Em.Kt. Ed Purkis!  It all sounds like a recipe for disaster!

However the meeting of the Trinity In Unity Preceptory No 19 at Barnstaple on 27^th June was a great success and was enjoyed by all!

The Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. John Summers led his team, ably directed by the Marshal Em.Kt. Paul Ackland, in the installation of the candidate Andy Petherick and with the assistance of the Provincial Prior who carried out the accolade.

The company then retired to partake of a most enjoyable Festive Board.

Tamar Preceptory No. 625 'White Table' Meeting at Barnstaple Saturday 15th June.

Eminent Knights and their Ladies travelled from around the Province to attend the meeting of the Tamar Preceptory No. 625 on Saturday 15th June at Barnstaple.  The Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. Jan Olszewski, quickly conducted the business of the Preceptory in a most competent manner and then closed the Preceptory before admitting the Ladies.  The assembled company were then treated to a most enjoyable and interesting talk by Em.Kt. Olszewski entitled "The Knights Templar - History and Legend".

The meeting was followed by a most enjoyable lunch in the company of our Ladies who added glamour, charm and beauty to our festivities.

The only confusing thing about the whole meeting was when one worthy knight enquired as to the health of another's sick cat.  The reply  "It's in the lost property office at Waterloo!! "  It took several minutes for us to realise that the vagrancies of elderly hearing had meant that our colleague had thought that we were enquiring after the headgear he had left on a train some days earlier!

Click here to see the photos

Provincial Appointments and Promotions 2013/14

PROVINCIAL  WORKING

The meeting of  Restormel Preceptory No. 90 on Saturday September 21^st will be a Provincial Working.

Will all active Provincial Officers please make a note in their diaries !

A lovely sunny evening on the English Riviera greeted those knights who had travelled from near and far to attend the Installation meeting of the Royal Sussex Preceptory No.25 at Torquay on 13th March.

A large number of knights including our Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, the Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones and a goodly number of Great and Provincial Officers, were treated to a superb ceremony in which the Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. Orme Vince installed his successor Kt. Malcolm Gorst in a most competent manner and the inner workings were carried out with sincerity and confidence. The newly installed Preceptor then installed his officers and continued the meeting most proficiently;  all this was carried out under the watchful and commanding figure of the Marshal Em.Kt. Dr. Warner Barton.

Before the Installation Our Provincial Prior presented a Great Priory Certificate to Kt. Martin in a most interesting manner.

The evening culminated in a most enjoyable Festive Board and, as is the tradition at Royal Sussex, a visitor's response was called for during which Em.Kt, John Summers from No.19 referred to the recent warm spell and the fact that he (and one or two others) had managed to shed their knightly attire over the past weekend to work in the garden in their underwear!!  Not a pretty sight!!

Once again a great night was had by all!

The Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones and his team continued their 'Missionary Work' amongst the 'North Devon Savages' when they visited the Trinity in Unity Prior No.19 in Barnstaple on Thursday 25th May.

At the start of the Official Visit by the Provincial Team they were paraded in in Grand Style after the Priory had been opened by the Eminent Prior, Em.Kt. Alan Cockman who then welcomed them warmly. The Eminent Prior then proceeded to install Kt. Dave Hingston and Kt. Stuart Mair as knights of Malta with the very able assistance of the Provincial Sub Prior.  Em.Kt. Alan then installed his successor, Kt. John Summers as Eminent Prior for the ensuing year.

The ceremony was followed by a most amiable festive board during which the dedication of the provincial officers was applauded, especially bearing in mind that the Provincial Sub Prior's mother had been taken into hospital earlier that afternoon following a bad fall but Em.Kt. Michael had still attended to his Knightly duties whilst keeping up to date with the situation in the hospital through his wife Sue.

All in all a most enjoyable evening was had by all and the Knights were wending their way home by 9:30pm

Please Note that the date of the Malta meeting of St. John of Jerusalem Preceptory & St. Michael Priory No 611 at Newquay has had to be changed from 24th April to the 29th April due to many members beaing away at Grand Lodge.

Great Priory will be held on Wednesday 15^th May, 2013, at 2.30 in the Clarendon Suites, 2 Stirling Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. B16 9SB.

Those from the Province of Devon and Cornwall being honoured with promotion are :

An email from the Assistant Grand Secretary:-

Dear Sir and brother Knights,

I have attached to this E Mail a registration and Dining form for the Great Priory meeting on the 15^th May 2013.  The meeting will be held as usual at the Clarendon Suites, 2 Stirling Road, Birmingham, B16 9SB.  The meeting will commence at 2.30 pm, with dining at 5.00pm.  We aim to finish by 7.30pm at the very latest.

It is the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Masters wish that as many knights as possible attend the meeting.  For clarification any knight of any rank is eligible to attend and can return the registration form to me, they do not need a Great Officer to book them in. 

The Summons and Minutes will be dispatched in the normal way in due course.

Please could you distribute this form to all knights in your Provinces and Preceptories.  I am happy to receive applications via E Mail or post, but must request that all applications are received by the 3rd May 2013.

Many thanks for your assistance and I hope to see many of you on the day.

If you or any of your brother knights require any further assistance then please don’t hesitate to contact me either by phone or E Mail.

Yours in the Bonds of the Order,

 Martin Budds

Assistant Grand Secretary

Click here to download the Registration and Dining Form

Spring Lunch at Passage House Hotel, Kingsteignton - Sunday 7th April.

The pre-lunch drinks were enjoyed in a most convivial atmosphere and amongst good company in a setting in which the hotel's bar had magnificent views down the Teign Estuary to Teignmouth, and the meal which followed was excellent in all respects.

Several of the gentlemen had decided to go beyond the realms of the 'Old School Tie' with stylish offerings of fashionable ties from Knights Allan Seagar, Gerald Watson and Peter Keaty (with a very wide red tie worn by Fred Wheeler -see the photos) however, they were all eclipsed by the wonderful Fleur de Lys tie sported by one of our guests, W.Bro. John Smerdon!

The Lunch was also attended by our  Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones and his lovely and long suffering wife Sue and he almost ended up with small portions of the meal rather than his request to ensure that "portions are not half size" - an unfortunate error which came about by the organiser not being able to read his handwriting.

It was also a delight to see V.Em.Kt. Gerald Watson at the lunch where he took a little bit of leg pulling from the 'North Devon Savages'!

Talking of which, can anyone explain why one of them ended up with two roast potatoes on a plate which started life as a bowl of Profiteroles??

All in all a great way to spend a Sunday lunch time with good food, good friends and good wine - roll on the Autumn Lunch in Lanhydrock!!

Click here to see the photos

Over 50 Knights attended the Priory of Malta Meeting of the Union or Rougemont Preceptory at Exeter on 20^th March to watch Em.Kt. Barry Baker install Kts. Simon James and Simon Metters as Knights of Malta with the assistance of the Provincial Sub Prior, Em.Kt. Michael Jones.  And what a superb installation ceremony it was with several knights also attending the Chapter of the Knights of St. Paul in order to see the whole ceremony.

Previous to the ceremony the Mareschal, Em.Kt. Allan Seagar, (who has one of the biggest Swords I’ve ever seen) proved once again that the pen is mightier than the sword when he presented the minutes to the Em.Prior who was unable to sign them because neither had a pen.  Em.Kt. Allan quickly resolved the problem by swapping his sword for a Biro!

Following the installation of the two Knights, Em.Kt. Barry then went on to install Em.Kt. Tony Jeffery as Eminent Prior of the Priory of Malta who then installed his officers in a superb manner despite the fact that a certain visitor who shall be nameless (but who is writing this article) nearly sliced off the legs of the Treasurer when he carelessly left his scabbard sticking out from his chair as the Mareschal escorted the Treasurer to be invested!

The evening culminated in a most enjoyable Festive Board which included the unusual tradition at Union or Rougemont of singing the National Anthem at the Festive Board as part of the Loyal Toast.

Having recovered his cloak from the Union or Rougemont Preceptory No. F at Gandy Street earlier in the month (thanks to Brian Tyack and Peter Tolman) the Eminent Preceptor of Trinity in Unity Preceptory No 19 was all set to install his successor Kt. John Summers on 31^st January.

Visitors from the furthest reaches of the Province made a worthwhile journey to Barnstaple on Thursday evening to witness Em. Kt. Alan Cockman complete his duties as Preceptor when he installed Em. Kt. John Summers into the chair of Trinity-in-Unity No. 19.

An overseas contingent from the North ( Somerset ) also joined us to enjoy a well performed ceremony, despite Em. Kt. Alan having some difficulty when he opened the Preceptory with six and one knocks instead of the usual five and two!  This was put down to the problems that the ‘North Devon Savages’ have with the tricky science of counting, and on proffering the Baton to Em. Kt. Michael Jones, the Provincial Sub Prior, Em. Kt. Alan suggested that he should perform the Installation; the Sub Prior refused on the basis that he wasn't familiar with the Barnstaple Ceremony which commenced with knocks of six and one!

The Ceremony was followed by the usual high standard of festive board and the visitors were sent on their way by 9:00pm to allow them time to travel to their far flung homes.

One very welcome visitor was Em.Kt. Ed Purkis who delighted us all by making a return visit to Barnstaple after having undergone the fitting of a Pace Maker!

Only three short months now before a similar event in the Malta Degree at Barnstaple, let’s hope that not too much happens between now and then to distract Alan from his learning!

(Report written jointly by Em. Kt. Michael Jones, the Provincial Sub Prior and Em. Kt. Alan Cockman)

Over 50 knights as well as the Provincial Prior Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies and the Provincial Sub Prior Em.Kt. Mike Jones, attended the installation at the Union or Rougemont Preceptory No. F at Gandy Street in Exeter on Wednesday 16^th January 2013 and what a superb evening it was.

At the commencement of the meeting the Marshal, Em.Kt. Allan Seager decided that in view of the large numbers attending then he would play the role of health and safety officer and he instructed the knights in the back rows not to draw their swords during the ceremony.  This slightly disappointed those who were affected and who were looking forward to taking their revenge on those in the ‘better’ seats in front, however, on reflection, Alan was probably right!

The Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. Malcolm Player then installed his successor Kt. Tony Jeffery in a most proficient and sincere manner, and Em.Kt. Tony then appointed and invested his officers.  However this did not go without incident.  When the Treasurer was invested his sword seemed to take on a life of its own causing the Provincial Prior to take rapid avoiding action and to remark at the Festive Board that he was “..glad to be going home with both ears and his nose intact!”  The Marshal promised him that the Treasurer would be receiving intensive Sword Drill Training in the very near future!!

Following the Installation Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies presented a certificate to a newly installed knight in a most informative manner!

The meeting was followed by superb festive board in which the food was only surpassed by the wine and the company!

As a footnote one of the visitors (guess who) on his return to the darkest depths of North Devon realised that in the ‘hurley burley’ of over 50 Knights changing at the same time he had managed to mislay his cloak and return home without it – this wouldn’t be a problem except for the fact that in two weeks time he has to install his successor in Barnstaple and the spectacle of an installation carried out by an Eminent Preceptor wearing just his tunic would probably be noticed and frowned upon by those presiding over the meeting!  So if anyone has come across the wayward cloak could they please let me know.

Holy Cross Preceptory No561Ceremony

On one of the wettest nights of the winter, Tuesday 20th November, E.Kt. Hallet, the Eminent Preceptor of Holy Cross Preceptory No 561 at Seaton installed Companion Simon Dunn as a Knight of the Order.  Simon is well known around the County of Devon as a past Deputy D.C. in the Craft Degree and his installation drew visiting friends from as far afield as Barnstaple and Plymouth. In the absence of both the Provincial Prior and the Provincial Sub Prior who were attending to their duties at a Great Priory Meeting in London the Preceptory Chaplain, E.Kt. Brian Emmerson rose to the occasion and delivered the accolade (to which he occasionally added some Spanish Workings following his recent vist to Spain in another Degree). The evening culminated in a most enjoyable festive board with good company, good food and good friends.
The Provincial sub Prior's Maiden Flight in Malta at The "Royal Sussex" Priory No 25
Our new Provincial Sub Prior took his maiden flight when he presided over the Priory of Malta Meeting at The “Royal Sussex” Priory No 25 in Torquay on Wednesday 14th November. The Eminent Prior, Em.Kt. John Murray, carried out the installation of a new knight in a superb manner and was ably assisted by our Provincial Sub Prior who gave the address. Em.Kt. John then proceeded to install his successor, Em.Kt. Michael Robin Orme Vince and the Provincial Sub Prior was delighted to be offered the Baton of the Priory by someone who had the same first two names as himself! The entire company then retired to the refrectory for a superb Festive Board
The "Royal Veterans" Preceptory No 10 Installation
Three weeks ago John Boocock installed Richard Thomas in the chair of the Royal Citadel Conclave in the Order of the Red Cross of Constantine.  Tonight (Monday 12th November) in Plymouth, the situation was reversed when Richard Thomas installed John Boocock as Eminent Preceptor of The “Royal Veterans’” Preceptory No 10 in the order of Knights’ Templar. Em.Kt. Richard installed Kt. John with the style and polish that he has become known for and Em.Kt. John then appointed his officers in his own inimitable manner and it was noticeable how young that team were!  Looking at the Constables reminded me of the old saying “you know you’re getting old when the policemen look young” and the constables certainly did look young to me! The ceremony was followed by a most convivial festive board with good food and good company.
The Latest News on Em.Kt. Ed Purkis
Em.Kt. Ed Purkis was taken to hospital on Saturday 3rd November suffering from what appeared to be a seizure.   I have spoken to Sue his wife this morning (11th November) and she tells me that the good news is that Ed is now at home and the doctors have ruled out a Stroke or Heart Attack as being the problem, they believe that Ed has a slow heart beat which occassionally misses a beat altogether.  They are now on a "Waiting and Watching" routine with the possiblity of having a heart pace maker fitted at some time in the future. Ed has been told to 'take it easy' for a while and is totally frustrated at not being able to live his normal very active life whilst Sue has the unenviable job of ensuring that Ed does what he's told, and anyone who knows Ed can imagine what a tough job she is having!!! Ed, we are all thinking of you and missing you and we hope that you will recover soon.
Autumn Luncheon held on 4th November at Launceston
Good Food, Good Wine and Good Company were enjoyed by over 70 Knights, their Friends and Families when they attended the K.T. Autumn Luncheon at Eagle House Hotel, Launceston on Sunday 4th November. Hosted by the Eminent Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies and his Lady, Lis, and superbly organised by Em.Kt. James Wonnacott the Luncheon which seemed to be made up of all “home cooked” food was enjoyed by all, as was the poem which the Provincial Prior recited in his toast to the Ladies. The only sad part of the day was the news that Em.Kt. Ed Purkis had been taken to hospital the day before suffering from what appeared to be a seizure.   The good news however was that Ed appeared to have recovered well and was hoping to return home that very day! Ed - get well soon, and we're all thinking about you!! Click here to see the photos
Province of Devonshire & Cornwall Annual Chapter at Tintagel
The breathtaking views of the Cornish coast, a leisurely lunch in the company of good friends and a Provincial Meeting that started promptly, was well attended, well organised and was interesting – what more could a Knight want?   After just a year as our Provincial Prior Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies showed that he had firmly “taken the reigns” of our Province by running the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel on Saturday 13th October with style and good humour.   After the 158 knights were assembled and the visitors, many of whom had travelled from Provinces far from Devon,  introduced and greeted, the fundamental business of the meeting was quickly dealt with.  Then came the appointment of the new Provincial Sub-Prior.
Before appointing the new Sub-Prior our Provincial Prior referred to the work and support he had received from V.E.Kt.Gerald Watson and thanked him for all his help and wished him well in his future appointment in the Chapter Degree.  He also thanked E.Kt. Mike Jones for all the work he had done in his position as Vice Chancellor over the years.    The appointment and investiture of the Provincial Sub Prior, E.Kt.Mike Jones, was then carried out by the Provincial Prior in a superb manner followed by the appointment and promotion of the other officers of the Province.   After the inspection of his bodyguard the Right Eminent Provincial Prior gave a most enjoyable address to the assembled Knights (a copy of which can be read by clicking on the link below).   The Provincial Prior then closed the Provincial Priory and the Priory of Malta was opened and the Officers appointed by the new Sub Prior in an exemplary manner.   The meeting was then closed and the Knights wended their way home happy at having attended a most enjoyable meeting.   And the local Cornish Pasty Shop had done a roaring trade!   Click here to see the Provincial Prior's Address Click here to see the photos
Provincial Sub Prior bids farewell to the Celts and the North Devon ‘Savages’
On Friday 28th September at Launceston the Provincial Sub Prior, V.Em.Kt. Gerald Watson, presided over his last Malta Priory before he will stand down at the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel on the 13th October.   A large number of visitors and active Provincial Officers from all over Devon and Cornwall as well as visitors from the far flung reaches of Somerset attended the Official Provincial Visit to the Launceston Castle Preceptory and St. Thomas Priory No 48   The Malta Meeting was conducted by the Eminent Prior, Em.Kt. Lou Powderly in a most capable manner when he firstly installed Kt. Richard Mably as a Knight of Malta and then went on to install his successor Em. Kt. Jim O’Hara into the chair of the Priory.   The meeting was followed by a most enjoyable Festive Board and during the toasts the new Eminent Prior referred to himself and the Installing Prior as “although we are not Cornish we are indeed Celts – both being Irish”.  Following the toast to the Provincial Officers a deputation of North Devon
‘Savages’ who have developed a special ‘bantering’ relationship with the Sub Prior over the years presented him with a plaque depicting a Knight Malta being confronted by 3 savages with the words Es Salaam Aleikum;  the banter continued with the Sub Prior expressing his regret that his missionary work in Barnstaple had been in vain!!   At the Provincial G.P. Committee Meeting held before the Malta Meeting the Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies was delighted to present a pair of engraved Masonic Wine Glasses to V.Em.Kt. Gerry who was pleased to find that the glasses were accompanied by two bottles of very good wine (which were not brought out at the Festive Board!).

Official Provincial Visit to Union or Rougemont Preceptory No F

When the Immediate Past Preceptor of a Preceptory discovers that the Eminent Preceptor has been rushed into hospital twenty four hours before a meeting only one thing could make it worse and that is if that meeting is also an Official Visit by the Provincial Offficers.  That is exactly what happened at Union or Rougemont Preceptory No F at their meeting on Wednesday 26th September in Exeter. 

Em.Kt. Barry Baker bravely took the chair at short notice when Em.Kt. Martin Player was taken to hospital.  And what a superb job he made of it!!  Some other officers were also absent due to ill health but the members of the Preceptory pulled together in the true spirit of teamwork and presented a terrific ceremony when they installed Comp. Andrew Simon James into the Preceptory in front of our Provincial Prior, Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies, his Provincial Officers and many visitors.

The meeting was followed by a most convivial Festive Board and during the toast to the new Knight his proposer, Em.Kt. Jeff Bailey, referring to the Candidate's name remarked that it was the first time he had come across three saints in one man!!

Holy Cross Preceptory No 561 - Two meetings in one night
The Installation meeting of the Holy Cross Preceptory No 561 at Seaton on Tuesday 18th September was preceded by the Installation of a candidate into the Order.

For the first part of the meeting E.Kt. Robin Barnard took the chair and installed Companion Anthony Briars in a most professional manner with the assistance of E.Kt. Mike Jones (who had taken over Robin's role as Marshal) and the assistance of our Provincial Prior Rt.E.Kt. Peter Davies who performed the Accolade with his customary style.

The Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. David Rogers, then retook the chair and installed his successor Kt. Christopher Hallett in an equally impressive manner,

After the installation the Provincial Prior presented a cerificate to a new Knight in a most interesting fashion.  The ceremony was followed by a very enjoyable festive Board with a superb beef and mushroom pie on the menu!

Tamar Preceptory No 625 Meeting at Barnstaple
At their meeting in Barnstaple on Saturday 16^th June the Tamar Preceptory No:625 of Installed Preceptors  were treated to a rare talk by E.Kt. J. Olszwski on “An explanation of some terms used in Templar Masonry”.  The talk explained many of the titles used in both Knights Templar and in Knights Malta, including the origins of the word Preceptory and the origin of the three names Marshall, Baillie and Turcopollier.

Following the morning meeting a dull wet day was brightened by the presence of the Ladies at the Festive Lunch.

Report on Great Priory, Wednesday 16th May 2012.

 A number of Knights from the Province attended the Annual Muster of Great Priory at The Clarendon Suites, Edgbaston on Wednesday 16th May to support the four Knights from Devonshire & Cornwall who were appointed or promoted.

Our Sub-Prior, Gerald Watson, received a very well earned promotion to Past Great Registrar, Allan Seager was appointed to Past Great Aide.de Camp and David Lee to Past Great Warden of Regalia. Alan McArthur was appointed to the active rank of Great Chamberlain.   

After the ceremonial, a very pleasant meal was enjoyed by all before setting off on the long journey home.

Congratulations to Very Eminent Knight Gerry and Eminent Knights Allan, David and Alan.

Appointments and Promotions to be made at the Provincial Meeting at Tintagel on 13th October

Spring Lunch at Kingsteignton
Well over 100 Knights and their friends and families attended the Spring Lunch at the Passage House Hotel in Kingsteignton on Sunday 1^st April.  The magnificent weather not only afforded us a pleasant trip to the dinner but also enabled us to take in the splendid view of the River Teign which can be had from the bar of the hotel.  A convivial pre-lunch drink was followed by a superb luncheon which had been organised  in a most professional manner by our Provincial Vice Chancellor Em.Kt. Mike Jones.  The meal was followed by the Loyal Toast and three brief though excellent toasts which included a “Thank You” to our Ladies by our Provincial Prior Rt.Em.Kt. Peter Davies who also commented that it was nice to see all the Knights “out of the nighties!!”

Great weather, great company, great food, great atmosphere, what else can you hope for on a Sunday lunchtime?  We all look forward to the Autumn Lunch at Launceston.

Click here for photos

The Mandylion Preceptory No 628 Installation.
At the Installation at The Mandylion Preceptory No. 628 held on Friday 30^th March ay Ivybridge the Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. John Bate installed his successor Kt. Roy Wakeling in a most competent manner.  Em.Kt. John then invested his officers and completed the summons in a most excellent style.

All present then retired to partake of the festive board, and one Knight in particular (who shall be nameless) was in such a hurry to get to the refreshments that he decided not to make use of the last four steps of the stairs with drastic results.  Relieved that his pride was more damaged than his body we then partook of a most enjoyable meal with wonderful company.

The worst nightmare of a Past Preceptor?      St. John of Jerusalem  Preceptory No 611 Installation.

The worst nightmare of any Past Preceptor happened at St. John of Jerusalem Preceptory No 611, Newquay on Tuesday 28th February 2012  -  the acting Eminent Preceptor was unable to attend the Installation because of personal unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances.

With just minutes to go before the start of the ceremony, and with R.E.Kt Peter Davies the Provincial Prior in attendance together with visiting  Knights from all around the Province, E.KT.Steve Wilkinson, Prov. Std. Br. (B) bravely volunteered to become the Installing Preceptor.

And what a superb job he made of installing Kt. John Penpraze as Eminent Preceptor!!

E.Kt. John then installed his officers in a most professional manner, and it was nice to see that many of the officers were ‘Young Knights’ boding well for the future of the Preceptory.

The evening culminated with a most convivial and enjoyable festive board held at the Griffin Hotel, Newquay.

Ron shines at Restormel Preceptory No 90 Installation.

Banner Dedication at Vera Cruz Preceptory No 654

200 Year Old Warrant seen for the first time in many years at Trinity in Unity No 19 Barnstaple

The Warrant for Trinity In Unity Preceptory No:19 in Barnstaple has for many years lived in a box and has been passed from Eminent Precepto to Eminent Preceptor without anyone actually seeing the Warrant.  At their Installation Meeting in January the incoming Preceptor, Alan Cockman, surprised the assembled company by demanding that the Installing Preceptor, E.Kt. Ian Harper open the box and display the Warrant which was hand written 200 years ago (the Bi-Centenary of the Preceptory could not be celebraated as the Preceptory did not operatate for 43 of the last 200 years).

The Warrant turned out to be in very good condition and was viewed by all those who attended before being returned to its box, there to remain for some considerable years to come.

The Installation was followed by a very convivial festive board in which everyone was given a history of Trinity in Unity Preceptory and which finished in plenty of time for the Right Eminent Provincial Prior, Right Eminent Peter Davies, and other distinguished visitors from affar to return home before the bewitching hour of midnight.

Provincial Prior’s Address – Tintagel, Saturday 8th October 2011

Well Bro. Knights, this is a new experience for all of us!  I’m more used to standing up in front of 150 students in an examination hall, but of course, they are always much more apprehensive than I am.

 I want to begin by paying tribute to my immediate predecessor, Rt E Kt John Warner Vaughan.  John served the Province as Sub Prior for 11 years before he was installed as Provincial Prior at the Riviera Centre, Torquay in January 2007. Since then, he has led the Province with his own brand of calm dignity and charm. Under his stewardship the Province has continued to flourish. Approx. 80 Knghts have been installed, and we have had Official Visits from both Prior & Sub Prior and Provincial workings with the Prior and his team of officers. His regular attendance at our meetings has been a welcome benefit to our Preceptories.

I have particular reason to be grateful to Rt E Kt John. He appointed me his Provincial Deputy Marshal in 2007, & last year he appointed me his Marshal. So, I’ve just got used to standing at that end of the Hall and looking in this direction…. But, hey, I’m not complaining! I do feel very humble to follow in the footsteps of such distinguished Kts as Rt E Kt John and his predecessors, Rt E Kts Keith Jackson, Douglas Penny and Cyril Barnes, sadly none of whom are able to be with us this afternoon.

I feel sure you will all want to join me in wishing John and his lovely wife Anne a happy retirement from this office and I know we all look forward to seeing them around the Province in the years to come. I expect he will get on with his hunting, shooting and fishing - the only sports he recognises. According to John, all the others are just games!

Earlier I welcomed our distinguished visitors; I now welcome you all to this Provincial meeting in what must be one of the most atmospheric of venues for a meeting of Knights Templar. It is wonderful to see so many of you here and I thank you for your support today. To all those Knights who have sent me messages of congratulation, encouragement & support – thank you. Your messages were very much appreciated.

In particular, I want to thank our Provincial Sub Prior, E Kt Gerry Watson, who, having served as Sub Prior for 4 ½ years has agreed to continue in office for one more year. It will be very reassuring to have his support and experience beside me.

E Kt Gerry, on behalf of our ladies, will you also please convey our sincere thanks to your wife, Evelyn, for all her hard work over the last 4-5 years in arranging the Ladies’ outings. I know my wife has enjoyed every one & I think today’s trip to the Eden Project is well supported & will be one of the most popular & successful outings.

Then we must thank our Provincial Bodyguard, under the direction of their Commander, Deputy Commander & Registrar. They have been beavering away since very early this morning to set up the Hall for these meetings while most of us were still having breakfast. Thank you Bro. Kts for all your hard work. Thanks to our host Preceptory, Launceston Castle No. 480 and all those who have contributed towards the setting up for this meeting.  A word also for our new Provincial Marshal and Deputy Marshal. Having occupied both those offices in recent years I am well aware of the need for a full rehearsal for this meeting. E Kt Ed & E Kt James have not had the benefit of a rehearsal today & in the circumstances they have done a sterling job. Thank you both.

And last, but, (& those of you who know him well will understand what I mean when I say “by no means least”), our Provincial Vice Chancellor, E Kt Mike Jones. E Kt Mike is a man with a very big heart, and an even bigger sword! Should one feel the need to disagree with him, I recommend you do it from a distance! E Kt Mike, thank you for all that you do for the Province, but especially for today. Br Kts, preparations for today do not happen over just days or weeks. The arrangements for the two meetings with a lunch for 120+ in between,  have been in the planning for over 5 months. It’s not so much hard work as particularly time consuming & requiring meticulous attention to detail. E Kt Mike, thank you.

Congratulations are in order for those Kts who have been appointed or promoted today. This is recognition for your efforts on behalf of, and your commitment to your Preceptories.  I trust you will continue to serve & support your Preceptories and encourage new members.

I believe I have invested a strong team of officers today & I look forward very much to working with you all during the coming year. A senior executive officer of an American advertising company described ‘teamwork’ as “a lot of people doing what I say”. Well Bro Kts, I do not subscribe to that definition. In my dictionary, there is no ‘I’ in teamwork. There is however a ‘w’ & an ‘e’ and WE shall work together for the good of the Province. Remember Bro Kts that YOU are the Province – not the executive or administrative officers, but you, individually and collectively are the Province of Devonshire & Cornwall and  I look forward to coming around & meeting each of you during this next year. Be proud of your Province, Bro Kts, go back to your Royal Arch Chapters and encourage the next generation of Knights Templar to join you in this wonderful Order. To those retiring from office this year, we thank you for your commitment and your service to the Province over the last year. We hope you will continue to enjoy your Templar masonry in and beyond the Province.

We must also congratulate those E Kts who were honoured by the Grand Master at Gt Priory in May this year. E Kt Brian Lobb was appointed to PGt Herald, E Kt Michael Cooper to PGt A-de-C, and E KTs Brian Emmerson & John Vooght to PGtWofR. These appointments are well deserved and I hope that as many Kts as can make it will be at Gt Priory of Malta next month in Edgbaston to support these E Kts when they receive the equivalent rank in the Malta degree.

I’ve already promised our distinguished visitors that I will try to reciprocate their visit over the next few years. Within the Province, I will endeavour to attend each of the Preceptories at least once during the coming year.

We shall continue the established practice of 2 Official Visits in the Knights Templar, and I also hope to bring the Provincial team to one of the Preceptories for a Provincial Working, with if course, the agreement of the EP.

Looking forward, we are working on two new initiatives:

At Tamar Preceptory in Torquay in June we were treated to a most interesting presentation by Rt E Kt Barry Burridge, Prov. Prior for Somerset & E Kt David Platten, PPrRegistrar, Somerset, who told us about the King Edward VII & Somerset Preceptories of Improvement. I won’t go into detail now, but in the coming months our new Prov. Marshal, EKt Ed Purkis, will be talking to your Preceptories & explaining how a Kt may be involved & how it will improve his knowledge of the ritual & the rubric, as well as his competence & confidence in sword drill.                                                                        

Our Vice Chancellor, as if he hasn’t enough to do, is also looking into the idea of a Provincial website. If any of you have expertise in that area I’m sure E Kt Mike will be pleased to receive any help and advice you can offer.

On the social side, we enjoyed a very pleasant Spring Lunch at Passage House in Devon in April, and I’ve asked E Kt James Wonnacott, our Prov. Deputy Marshal, to organise an Autumn Lunch in Cornwall next year. I hope Bro Kts that you will support these two happy, social functions with your wives, partners & families.

To bring you up to date with the Grand Master’s Anabta appeal to purchase diagnostic equipment for the Eye Hospital in Jerusalem – The appeal is now closed & the target has been well exceeded. The Kts of this Province contributed a splendid £4,000. This Order is the single largest donor to the Eye Hospital, which, as I’m sure you’re all aware, offers free treatment to Christians, Jews & Arabs alike.   

A reminder, Bro Kts, of the Grand Master’s Council recommendation that on Christmas Day at 5pm, when we’re full of turkey, plum pudding and festive spirit, we remember our Bro Kts around the world with this short prayer:        “Preserve O Lord our Brother Knights, By land and sea and air, And as we hold them in our thoughts, So keep them in thy care”.

And finally: thank you all again for your attendance & support today. I look forward to seeing you all back here, same place, same time next year. Have a safe journey home and I’ll leave you with this thought: Bro Kts, don’t be afraid to go out on a limb – that is where the fruit is!

Thank you for listening.                          Rt E Kt Peter Davies      8^th October 2011

Provincial Prior’s Thanks to the Escorts – Tintagel, Saturday 8th October 2011

Bro Kts, before I adjourn this Chapter of Provincial Priory, I want to take a moment to thank my four Escorts & Cushion Bearers this morning.

My brother, Kt David Davies of the Preceptory of St George No 318 in Cheshire, has only been a member of this Order for approx. 18 months – after a few years of persistent persuasion from me! He is now in office & I believe enjoying his Templar masonry. Dave, thank you for being here for me again today. I know you’re always there for me but today is very special.

E Kt Bernard Winsor, PDepGt SwdB, has been a member of this Order for … oh, aeons! Like David & me he is a product of Torquay Boys’ Grammar School although a decade or so earlier! Bernard is Capt. of the Sepulchre Guard in the Red Cross of Constantine & I am his Deputy. He may tell you that he’s not much longer for this world. Well, Bernard, we can’t afford to lose you yet – keep taking the tablets!

E Kt Richard Thomas, EP of Royal Veterans No 10 in Plymouth, is our youngest reigning Preceptor at just 46 years of age. Gosh, I remember 46! He’s coming to the end of his year in the Chair where he has demonstrated an excellent command of the ritual. He is also a colleague on the Sepulchre Guard in the Red Cross in which he also distinguishes himself.

E Kt Ron Gould is the EP of my mother Preceptory, Restormel No 90 way down in the far west in Hayle. Ron is our oldest reigning Preceptor at twice Richard’s age – he’s in his 92^nd year! He recently performed a full ceremony of Installation of a new Kt, except for the explanation of the symbols, and with barely a prompt. I shall be glad to be drawing breath at 92, let alone work a full ceremony! Incidentally, his predecessor in the Chair is in his 93^rd year, but I can reassure you that to be a nonagenarian is not a prerequisite for the Chair of Restormel Preceptory!

Bro Kts, I thank all four of you all for your support & your efforts this morning.