It is with reluctance that I accede to his request, knowing that in the last year he has had some concerns about his health.

When I invited him to take up the appointment of Deputy Provincial Grand Master I did so,  with his agreement,  that the term of Office would not be  fixed and he would make the decision to step down at a time of his own choosing.

He has undertaken the Office of Deputy Provincial Grand Master in exemplary fashion and has been an invaluable member of the Provincial Executive for the past seven and a half years.

I have been able to call upon his very wise council on numerous occasions and have always taken his views as being balanced and unbiased.

He and Marion have been very close friends to myself and June, which have made our visits to overseas Districts and Provinces most enjoyable and I am sure this will continue in the future.

I know that his retirement as Deputy Provincial Grand Master will not mean we are losing him from our ranks and that he intends to continue as an influential figure in the Province.

We still have a busy season to complete and I know Geoffrey will continue to give his total commitment and support until the very day he steps down.