Test Valley Chapter meet at Totton

Last night, a hardy handful of Companions from Test Valley Chapter 6181 braved the elements and assembled at Totton Masonic Hall. With so many empty seats, and the date being 11th November, it briefly looked like an "Empty Chair" Ceremony was to be conducted, although it’s not usual for the Empty Chairs to be those of the Officers. It wasn’t visually apparent, but one could almost feel the tumbleweed blowing across the East.

Despite being comprehensively outnumbered by the furniture, the loyal few pressed on with admirable determination. The Director of Ceremonies, M.E. John, successfully guided and cajoled the Officers through the ceremony without once resorting to a hip flask - although, on escaping the Temple, he appeared to be studying the bar with the focused interest of a man conducting essential research.

Well done to the valiant Companions of the Chapter for having a go under difficult circumstances!

The next Convocation is on Wednesday, 10th February 2027. Please put it in your diaries and come along to support the Chapter. Otherwise, the North and South seats may have to be filled with cardboard cut-outs - and, given their record for remaining perfectly still, they could prove surprisingly capable Officers.