A Fitting Farewell for Two Outstanding Provincial Wardens
- Scott Jones
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
Tuesday 24th June marked the final official outing as Provincial Wardens for W. Bro. Mark A. Gunton and W. Bro. Neil P. Nicholls, as they attended the final Installation meeting of the season at St John's Lodge No. 6414.
Having served the Province with distinction over several years, Mark and Neil have become two of the most recognisable and respected faces on the Provincial team. Their professionalism, dedication and warm friendship have earned them the admiration of Brethren throughout Worcestershire, and it was fitting that so many turned out to support them on this special occasion.
The meeting was presided over by W. Bro. P. L. Wong, with W. Bro. Mark A. Gunton occupying the Senior Warden's chair for the final time and W. Bro. Neil P. Nicholls serving as Junior Warden. Assisting the ceremony was W. Bro. M. J. Barber, Assistant Director of Ceremonies.
Also present were the incoming Provincial Wardens, Brody Swain, Provincial Senior Grand Warden, and James Benson, Provincial Junior Grand Warden, who attended to support their predecessors as they prepare to take up their own appointments. Also in attendance were, W Bro’s Tony Parkes and Ben Maffei the outgoing Senior and Junior Grand Wardens. Their presence symbolised the seamless passing of the baton and the continuation of proud Provincial traditions.
The occasion attracted an exceptional attendance, with more than 40 Brethren dining together afterwards. Among those present were W. Bro. Del Padmore, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, VW. Bro. Keith Evans, Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master, together with numerous acting and past Provincial Officers, Acting and Past Wardens, and several Grand Officers.
The evening concluded with a superb Festive Board, where heartfelt tributes were paid to Mark and Neil for their outstanding service, commitment and friendship. It was a memorable and thoroughly deserved send-off for two immensely popular Provincial Wardens whose contribution to Worcestershire Freemasonry has been truly exceptional.
Everyone at the meeting wishes Mark and Neil every success for the future and offers sincere thanks for the dedication, enthusiasm and good humour they have brought to the Province over the years. They leave their offices with the respect, gratitude and best wishes of Brethren across Worcestershire.
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