There were a number of significant changes as a result of the recent AGM of the York Road Management Committee with great appreciation and thanks to 3 retiring stalwarts of the Kettering Centre for their huge commitment and hard work over many years. Their dedication and tireless efforts have been the cornerstone of the centre’s stability and security over many years.
Michael, having led with distinction, leaves behind a legacy of 13 years as Chairman and over three decades of service to the committee and the centre.
Secretary Peter, took over the role in 2010 and his meticulous stewardship of the centre’s administrative and financial responsibilities has been exemplary. Working closely in partnership with Assistant Secretary Trevor, himself a committee stalwart since 2006, whose record-keeping and negotiation skills have been invaluable.
In recent years, the centre has seen many upgrades and improvements from a new roof to the recent impressive lodge room refurbishment and new display screens in the Lounge. This work has undoubtedly lifted the centre and we thank them all for their part in this.
The outgoing Chairman Michael also paid tribute to WBro John Partridge PAGDC for his many years of service on the committee, and also to Mick Vokes, John Thompson and Keith Riddle for their contributions in maintaining the centre.
The following members of the new management team were then proposed and duly elected;
WBro Duncan Childs PPSGW - Chairman
WBro Tim Lucy PPSGW Vice Chairman,
WBro Alex Robertson ProvGStB Secretary,
WBro Tom Reed Assistant Secretary, and
Bro Jonathan Thompson Financial Controller
Looking to the future, new Chairman Duncan said: "We appreciate the confidence shown in us and we will do our best to ensure the centre remains well run and facilities are well maintained and improved in the coming years. This pledge not only signifies continuity but also heralds a future of innovative improvements.
Moreover, the proposed modernisation of our committee structure will improve the management of the centre and we seek to elevate lodge representatives, providing robust two-way feedback channels that will shape the centre’s bright future.
Chairman Duncan presented tokens of gratitude to the outgoing committee members (including Michael Branch above) and finished his address to the members by saying: “Brethren, we thank you for your unwavering support as we, the newly appointed officers, pledge to honour the legacies we inherit while steering the centre through future challenges. Together, let us herald a new era of excellence for our centre. Thank you all for your support, we look forward to serving Freemasonry and our centre for many years to come.”