The Preceptory, meeting at Stroud Masonic Hall, was honoured by the attendance of our Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Peter Burrows, his Sub-Prior E.Kt. Phil Wightman, P.Gt.Chamb., and a good contingent of his Provincial Officers, led by E.Kt. David Hudson, P.Gt.Chamb., Prov.Chan.
There were seven visitors, including three from outside our Province: V.E.Kt. Charles Dyer, P.Gt.Reg., E.Kt. Peter Bullock, P.Gt.Her., and E.Kt. David Hagen, G.M.B.B.
Following the Installation of the new Eminent Preceptor, E.Kt. Tony Horsburgh, P.Prov. 2nd. Her., distinguished visitor E.Kt. Peter Bullock gave an address on the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon, dressed in the regalia of the Order. The address was full of interesting facts on how and when the Order was founded, ending up with an explanation of how it works in the present day.
At the end of the proceedings it was decided to mark the meeting by taking some photos of the assembled Knights, which you can see here.
In the Refectory we were treated to a top class three-course meal, which no doubt helped make the evening a memorable one for all. I can attest that the atmosphere was crackling with conviviality and good companionship, which is after all one of our highest aims in this fantastic Order.
Although Jean Parisot de Valette is the Bodyguard Preceptory, open to past and present members of the Bodyguard, Eminent Preceptors, Present and Past, of this Province are also entitled to join. We also strongly encourage all other knights of this and other Provinces to come and visit us; our next meeting is on Friday 27th February 2026, so please come along if you’re free – you will receive a very warm welcome.
Contact: Alex Priest, Registrar.
[email protected]
Tel: 07510 440559