At the 2025 Provincial Grand Lodge meeting, one of the most significant events in the Province’s Masonic calendar, was a prestigious and memorable occasion held at the iconic Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Nearly 1,000 Freemasons gathered in the presence of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, who presided over his third Provincial Grand Lodge meeting since his installation as the leader of West Lancashire Freemasons. It was, by all accounts, a truly special day.
As is tradition, Mark Matthews took time to welcome members personally as they arrived, introducing himself to new faces and catching up with familiar ones. He was particularly pleased to meet several newer brethren, who shared their impressions of Freemasonry. Many described their initiation as a deeply moving and positive experience, citing the warm welcome from their lodges and the smooth application process that highlighted and affirmed their sense of belonging.
A key focus of this year’s programme was once again on supporting and recognising the light blues, those members of the fraternity who are entered apprentices, fellow craft and master Masons, and are yet to receive Provincial appointments. While Provincial Grand Lodge members wear dark blue regalia, master Masons wear light blue aprons, marking their early progress within their respective lodges. Although existing regulations do not permit entered apprentices and fellow crafts to attend Provincial Grand Lodge, Mark Matthews, being committed to inclusivity and engagement, ensured that as many newer members as possible were welcomed. His goal was to give them the opportunity to witness the grandeur of the ceremony, experience its rich pageantry, and support fellow lodge members receiving honours and promotions.
The day began early, with senior Provincial officers opening the lodge in a smaller side room adjacent to the main stage. The lodge was then called off and later called on at 2:30pm in a format that enabled junior brethren to participate. Volunteers and stewards from the Preston Group were also on-site early, assisting with preparations to ensure the event ran smoothly. Behind the scenes, a significant effort was made to guarantee the success of the day. Provincial Grand Secretary Peter Taylor and his dedicated team handled logistics and practical arrangements with precision. Rehearsals were conducted under the meticulous eye of the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald, ensuring that everything proceeded flawlessly.
The formal procession of the Provincial team and distinguished guests was a standout moment of the day, conducted with military precision and accompanied by music from Stephen Derringer on the organ. The ceremonial entrance included leaders of the Royal Arch in West Lancashire, highlighting the unity of the organisation, as well as distinguished guests from other Provinces and past dignitaries. The atmosphere reached a peak as a special column of light blues was invited to parade in ahead of the Provincial officers, greeted by rapturous applause. Their pride and joy was unmistakable, a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many.
Following the formal welcomes, Mark then thanked Andy Whittle and Peter Locket for their many years of dedication and service to the Province and continued to invest Jonathan Heaton and John Murphy as their successors. Next, Mark Matthews began the appointment and investiture of his team. John Reynolds was appointed as senior warden and Ezra McGowan as junior warden, filling the roles previously held by Mark Humphrey and the late Mike Silver, whose sudden passing was deeply felt. The remainder of the acting officers and first appointees were then invested in a seamless, dignified ceremony befitting the occasion.
Mark then gave his address the assembled brethren with gratitude and reflection: “Brethren I commence my address by thanking you for attending and especially for supporting those Masons receiving honours. This is a most important date in our Provincial Diary. Please enjoy it!” Mark also encouraged the brethren to focus on Royal Arch membership as ultimately, we are one united organisation. Becoming a member will illuminate and complete the journey in pure ancient Freemasonry. As Grand Superintendent responsible for the Royal Arch, Mark extended his sincere thanks to all Craft Masons who have either returned to, or newly joined, this important Order.
Continuing, Mark said: “Brethren, within your groups, lodges, and chapters, please consider how you can contribute to wider Masonic community engagement. If you need guidance or support in this area, I encourage you to speak with your Group Chairmen or contact the Community Engagement Advisory Group via the Provincial Office. Active involvement in our local communities not only strengthens our bonds with the public but also enhances our reputation and helps attract future Masonic candidates.
Please continue to support the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. If you are a UK taxpayer, remember to use the yellow envelopes to increase your donation by 25% at no extra cost. This is your charity. if you are in distress or know someone who is, please contact the Huyton Office for free and confidential assistance. No one should suffer in silence, and we must ensure that others do not either.
Brethren, this event has required significant planning and dedication from start to finish. I extend heartfelt thanks to Peter Taylor, Mick Southern, Violet, and all the Provincial Office volunteers for their hard work and commitment.
I also thank our Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies and his deputies for ensuring the proceedings have run seamlessly. Appreciation is due to the Preston Group for providing our stewards, who have marshalled the day with efficiency and care. Lastly, my gratitude goes to the Cabinet, group chairmen, and their teams for their unwavering dedication to our Province. Your efforts are deeply valued and appreciated.
If you’re a new master or first principal, I encourage you to make a habit of visiting other lodges and chapters. Continue to organise and support social events, lodge, chapter, group, and other Provincial events, why not bring along family and non-Masonic friends to share in the experience.
To those receiving acting roles, first appointments, or promotions today: thank you for your dedication to our Province. I’m confident you will continue your excellent work. I look forward to dining with many of you later and wish everyone a safe journey home. Above all, my goal is for you to enjoy your Freemasonry, please do so.” To read the full address of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, 
Following the address, stewards led those receiving promotion to be personally congratulated by Mark. These recognitions celebrate contributions to lodges, charities, the Province and the wider community. Mark takes great pride in all who help uphold the honour of our institution.
With business concluded, Provincial Grand Lodge was formally closed and the procession was formed for the parade out, again conducted with military precision and accompanied with music from Stephen Derringer on the organ, with all the smiles expected by the brethren in what was a wonderful enjoyable experience.
The celebrations continued with a banquet held in the Exhibition Centre Hall. Brethren and guests enjoyed refreshments and lively conversation before sitting down for a formal meal, a lavish and joyful occasion. Senior officers of the Province and distinguished visitors joined Mark at the top table. There were wine takings, toasts, and gracious remarks. Peter Schofield thanked all those distinguished colleagues and brethren for the very warm welcome and congratulated all those who had taken office and been promoted to and in Provincial Grand Lodge.
The Provincial Senior Grand Warden decided to keep his speech short, naturally this created a lot cheer. He thanked John Murphy for the toast to the newly appointed brethren and congratulated the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald as well the Provincial Grand Secretary Peter Taylor, for all their extremely hard work in ensuring everyone had a wonderful and happy day at the West Lancashire Freemasons Provincial Grand Lodge. Finally, Mark thanked everyone for their attendance and expressed the importance of enjoying Freemasonry.
A C Roe, Leigh Group Publicity Officer.