On Tuesday, 11th June, a chatty gathering of seventy-five ladies of the Devonshire Masonic Widows Association was hosted at the splendid Bovey Castle Hotel for the annual summer lunch party. The sun shone, and faces smiled. A lovely buffet lunch with wine was enjoyed by all, and afterwards, a walk on the grounds, tea, and a chat were most welcome.
The Provincial Benevolent Fund again sponsored this event with the Provincial Grand Master Nicholas Ball and his wife Gill happily attending. Also present were Assistant Grand Master Tim Golder, Anthony Eldred Provincial Charity Steward, Les Pym Provincial Almoner, Barry White, Secretary of the Benevolent Fund and the event organisers, the tireless and hardworking team of Chris Oliver and his wife Jane. Chris is the Chairman of the Devonshire Masonic Widows Association.
The Devonshire Masonic Widows Association has reorganised into four groups, ‘Exeter and Topsham’, ‘Teign Valley’, ’Plym Valley’ and ‘Torbay’. Total membership of the Association is now 125 with several younger members recently joining.
Barbara Chisnall from the Teign Valley Group (Est 2002):
“We’re all the same; most of us are alone, so the lunches, teas and having a Speaker are much looked forward to. We especially enjoy Xmas Carols (this year at Exeter Cathedral) and this summer lunch is really looked forward to. I would ask Lodge Almoners to let us know of the passing of Brethren so we can make sure Partners are aware of who we are and the support we offer. We are very grateful to the Province for hosting these events.”
Chris Oliver, Chairman of the Masonic Widows of Devonshire:
“Bovey Castle is the third venue where we have held a summer lunch for our Masonic widows. It was so good to see the ladies having such an enjoyable time, even though some of them had travelled quite a distance. With the continuing support of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Devonshire Benevolent Fund, Jane and I are looking forward to organising next year’s summer event.”
Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire Nicholas Ball:
“Ladies, today’s lunch is one of the most special events in my diary. It means a lot to me to see you all here and to tell you that the Province has not forgotten you! I’m sure your departed Partners are up above looking down and glad to see that we are looking after you. My special thanks, as always, must go to Chris and Jane, who work so hard throughout the year to support the Association.”
