On Friday, 9th May, Twickenham Lodge No. 4278 had the distinct honour of hosting W. Bro. Bob Rough, PSGD, on what was his final official visit as Assistant Provincial Grand Master before stepping down from office on 29th May.
W Bro Bob was accompanied by his Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Frankie Whelan-Mellor, Past ProvDepGDC, and an escort of four Provincial Officers. The warmth of their welcome was matched by the significance of the occasion. Upon being offered the gavel by the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Marcus Padman, W. Bro. Bob confessed that he had recently been studying the First Degree and was tempted to take the chair for the demonstration—but graciously allowed the Master to proceed.
The demonstration of the First Degree provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the talents of the Lodge’s newer Master Masons, Bros. Paolo Franceschetti and Rajesh Tewari, who performed admirably as Junior Deacon and Inner Guard, respectively. The role of the candidate was ably portrayed by Bro. Alessandro Gentile, “volunteering” from the Motherland Lodge.
During the Second Rising and again at the Festive Board, W. Bro. Bob reflected on the great privilege it had been to serve as APGM for Twickenham Lodge over the past seven years—two more than the customary term. He expressed his sincere appreciation for the friendships and support he had received and shared his intention to remain active in the Province as a visitor and supporter of Lodge meetings going forward.
As a generous and celebratory gesture, W. Bro. Bob provided the Port for the Festive Board—a thoughtful act that was warmly received by all present. A toast was raised to his health and his future, met with heartfelt applause. True to his word, unlike many official visits where the APGM departs before the end of the evening, Bob remained to the very end—joining brethren and guests at the Cole Court bar to round off a truly memorable night.
W Bro Marcus Padman remarked that it had been a tremendous honour for Twickenham Lodge to host W. Bro. Bob’s final official visit as APGM, and while the Lodge looks forward to working with the incoming APGM, W. Bro. Andy Wright, PAGDC, the brethren will greatly miss W. Bro. Bob’s guidance, good humour, and enduring support.
