Widows Sons Solomon’s Guard Scotland Annual Gathering and Branding 2026
Updated: Aug 17
The 2026 Widows Sons Solomon’s Guard Scotland Annual Gathering and Branding brought together more than 20 Guards for a fantastic weekend of brotherhood, celebration and shared memories.
The first order of business was the installation of our new office-bearers.
The ceremony was conducted by Past President Gregor “Princess” Millar due to the unfortunate absence of President Jim “Strawbs” Wilson, who was at home recuperating following a recent accident. Jim was greatly missed throughout the weekend, but he was never far from our thoughts or our hearts. We all send him our very best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
Gregor installed:
Stewart “Trog” Walls as Chapter President
Steve “Donkey” McKenzie as Vice President and Treasurer
Jim “Subway” Gibson as Secretary
Barry “Fletcher” Peden as Almoner and Chaplain
Alan “Catweazle” Henderson as Director of Ceremonies
Deb “Wilma” Gibson, Tony “Fred” Gibson and Ryan “Tredz” Robinson as Chapter Outriders
We were also delighted to welcome Ian “Sherpa” Linn back to the Guards following some time away due to work commitments. Ian was installed in absentia as the new Road Captain.
We congratulate all our newly installed office-bearers and wish them every success as they guide and support the Chapter in the year ahead.
Our sincere thanks also go to Gregor for conducting the installation ceremony.
We were especially delighted to welcome our brothers from the Widows Sons Kernow Grand Chapter. Magpie, Mr Pickles, Tiger and King Pin made the remarkable 12-hour journey from Cornwall to join us.
Their commitment and friendship embodied the true spirit of the Widows Sons, and it was an absolute pleasure to have them with us.
Another highlight of the weekend was the presentation of patches and road names to three deserving brothers:
Jim “Rigsby” Imrie
Ray “Backdraft” Beesley
Mario “Spaghetti” Dauria
Congratulations to Rigsby, Backdraft and Spaghetti on this important milestone. Wear your patches with pride and carry your road names with honour.
New President Trog was then delighted to bestow honorary membership upon Dougie Munro, a Past Master of Lodge Colinton and Currie No. 1029 and a Provincial Chaplain of Midlothian.
Dougie has been a longstanding supporter of the Guards and their activities, and we hope that sometime in the coming months we may even see him joining us on two wheels.
Saturday’s Branding Ceremonies
The main business on Saturday was the branding of two brethren, Backdraft and Spaghetti. Following a unique Widows Sons Solomon’s Guard ceremony, both brothers were officially branded as Widows Sons.
Another very special moment was the branding of Richard “Magpie” Hallett from the Kernow Grand Chapter.
This was particularly meaningful for Past President Gregor “Princess” Millar, who had undergone the Kernow branding some years earlier. Being able to watch his good friend experience his Scottish branding was a moment he will remember for many years to come.
Following the branding ceremonies, President Trog presented the Chapter’s honorary members—John Gray, Pete Stewart and Dougie Munro—with specially commissioned Widows Sons Solomon’s Guard coins as a token of our gratitude for their friendship and continued support.
Sadly, Stuart Robertson was unable to attend due to his Masonic duties. A special presentation will be made to him at a later date.
A Weekend to Remember
The weekend was a huge success, with plenty for everyone to enjoy.
Our Kernow brethren took a tour of Rosslyn Chapel, while some of the Guards headed out on a coastal motorcycle run.
The remainder enjoyed a little pitch and putt or spent time exploring the Bield Estate.
The Guards were also treated to a fantastic acoustic guitar session from Dougie Munro and Princess.
Who knew Princess had such a talent? Before long, the performance had turned into a brilliant singalong, adding yet another memorable moment to an already wonderful weekend.
Alan “Catweazle” Henderson was also doing his DJ thing, entertaining everyone with a fantastic selection of tunes. He was ably assisted by Brother James from Kernow, and together they kept the music flowing.
The great tunes, combined with a remarkable laser light show, created an incredible atmosphere and set the scene perfectly for the evening’s celebrations.
Everyone celebrated well into the night, and a great time was had by all. The weekend was filled with fellowship, laughter and the strengthening of bonds between Chapters.
Events like this remind us that, however many miles may separate us, the values we share bring us together as one brotherhood.
We would like to give a special thank-you to Angela, the owner of Angela’s Kitchen and Belter Snacks, who catered for us throughout the entire weekend. The Guards had full bellies and happy smiles, and her fantastic food and hospitality helped make the gathering even more enjoyable.
Our sincere thanks also go to John Gray for his continued friendship and support, and for once again hosting us at the Bield Estate. His generosity and hospitality helped make the weekend possible and were greatly appreciated by everyone in attendance.
Finally, thank you to everyone who attended, helped organise the gathering or contributed to making it such a memorable occasion.
Special thanks once again to our Kernow brothers for travelling such a great distance to support Solomon’s Guard Scotland.
Until we meet again—ride safe, brothers.
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