Worshipful Brother Peter Bougourd was attending a rehearsal for what was to be his second full meeting as Master in January 2023 when he suddenly began to feel unwell. He was advised to return home immediately, but later that night he was admitted to intensive care. Within 24 hours he was placed into an induced coma as his organs began to shut down.
The cause was Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare and severe condition that attacks the nervous system. The seriousness of his illness meant that family and friends were forced to prepare for the worst. Peter remained in that coma for a further two months and, upon being brought back to consciousness, discovered that he was completely paralysed. Despite this, he was profoundly thankful simply to be alive.
Guernsey people are affectionately known as donkeys due to their stubbornness, and this trait—combined with Peter’s determination and mental resilience—proved invaluable. Through long, arduous, and often painful physiotherapy sessions, he slowly began the process of rebuilding muscle strength and relearning movement.
As his recovery progressed, he was gradually allowed visitors. Such was his popularity that the hospital was required to enforce scheduled visiting times. During this period, Peter even received his Provincial Chapter Honours, at a time when he was barely able to hold the offer letter.
In June 2024, Peter was finally discharged from hospital, although the intensive physiotherapy continued. On 29th March 2025, he attended the Installation of the new Provincial Grand Master of Guernsey and Alderney, arriving in a wheelchair. There, he attracted the attention of Sir David Wootton, the Installing Officer. Peter explained his condition and his heartfelt desire to return to the Chair in order to complete the year he had lost. In a spontaneous and memorable moment, he invited Sir David to attend his Installation meeting in January 2026. Sir David replied simply, “Send me the invitation and I will attend if I can.”
Peter’s second Installation became far more than a formal ceremony. It was a celebration of life, resilience, and one man’s determination to complete what he had started. In attendance were not only the Past Deputy Grand Master, but the current Provincial Grand Master of Guernsey and Alderney and his three predecessors, along with the Provincial Grand Master of the neighbouring island of Jersey. Their presence added great gravitas to an evening where both the Temple and Festive Board were filled to capacity.
It was a night that honoured courage, perseverance, and the extraordinary achievements of an ordinary man achieving extraordinary things.
Main Picture features Worshipful Brother Peter Bougourd, The Past Deputy Grand Master Sir David Wooton, The Provincial Grand Master of Guernsey & Alderney Phil Falla, the Past PGM’s Sir Geoff Rowland, David Hodgetts & Keith Read, together with the PGM of Jersey, Tim Dallas-Chapman. Taken by Worshipful Brother Rob Grant.
