It’s good when a plan comes together. This being the last scheduled Official Meeting of the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, it was decided from the outset that Wellingborough Chapter's January Convocation was destined to be something rather special, the object being to fill the temple with as many friends and acquaintances possible, and indeed anyone wishing to say farewell to E Comp Wayne Williams, Most Excellent Grand Superintendent in and over the Royal Arch Province of Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire following almost eleven years of exemplary service. The only request to those intending to go, or being aware of what was happening was, ‘DON’T TELL HIM’.
Present on the evening was the full Executive, Past Executive, Acting Provincial Grand Chapter Officers and a virtual plethora of Grand Chapter Officers and friends.
The work in the temple was equally special, a double Exaltation Ceremony. Newly exalted Companions Martin Hill and Gary Thornton will, for sure, remember always this most amazing occasion on which together they completed their journey through Pure Antient Masonry. The whole ceremony was conducted in a most exemplary manner by the officers of this fine Chapter.
Newly exalted Companions Martin Hill & Gary Thornton pictured below with the Wellingborough Chapter's
Principals and Provincial Grand Chapter Executive 
The Festive Board, predictably, really was something else when what can only be described as a celebratory spirit pervaded the whole evening. The toast to the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent was in the extremely capable hands of the Deputy Grand Superintendent E Comp Mike Coleman. This was very warmly received being studded with many anecdotes and much humour. At some point, the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent was presented with a wrapped present which turned out to be a ‘Skiffle Group Washboard’. In unrehearsed splendour, starting with members of the Executive, the whole room joined in an amazing rendition of Lonnie Donegan’s ‘My old Man’s a Dustman’, solos by the Executive and great fun for all. E Comp Wayne accompanied on the Washboard together with Barry Weigleb on Tea Chest and Barry Williamson on Banjo.
Deputy Grand Superintendent, E Comp Mike then presented the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent with an envelope containing an extremely large cheque which is reputed to be growing in value on a daily basis with no sign yet of it abating.
In response to his toast, E Comp Wayne reflected on his extended term in office and his undoubted affection for this wonderful Royal Arch Province. He thanked everyone for the huge support he received during his almost eleven years tenure. Finally he was saluted by all present with an enormous ovation, to mark not just the end of an era, but expectation by all of many more special occasions to enjoy together in Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire Royal Arch Masonry, albeit in a rather different capacity.
