On Monday, 22nd September, more than one hundred brethren gathered at Shiremoor Masonic Hall, where Vandeleur Lodge No. 3586 hosted the distinguished investiture of W. Bro. Chris Ainsley as Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Northumberland.
A Fitting Setting
The hall, long established as a centre of Freemasonry in North Tyneside, provided a fitting backdrop for the occasion. Originally built to serve the local mining community, Shiremoor Masonic Hall has been home to numerous Craft Lodges, Royal Arch Chapters, and other Masonic orders for decades.
The Provincial team assembled at Shiremoor Masonic Hall for the investiture of W. Bro. Chris Ainsley as Assistant Provincial Grand Master.
The Ceremony
The evening began with the impressive entrance of the Provincial team, complete with sword bearers and standard bearers. Once the lodge was called off, the team, led by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Kevin Stannard, assumed control and conducted a Provincial opening—a ceremony both dignified and striking, and for many newer brethren present, a captivating and memorable experience.
At the heart of the proceedings, the Patent of Appointment was read aloud by the Provincial Grand Master. W. Bro. Ainsley then knelt reverently before the Volume of the Sacred Law to take his obligation. The moment underlined his stature as a highly respected Mason and, to many brethren present that night, a ‘local hero’ whose commitment and service had earned widespread admiration.
With the ritual complete, he was invested as Assistant Provincial Grand Master, marking a proud milestone in his career and for the Province as a whole.
W. Bro. Chris Ainsley with R.W. Provincial Grand Master Kevin Stannard and the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters.
Looking Ahead
W. Bro. Ainsley has already made clear his focus on communication and engagement. He has praised the dedication shown across Northumberland and set out his vision for the future, emphasising the central importance of communication in keeping the Province vibrant and connected.
He noted:
“The future of our provincial communications looks incredibly bright, thanks to the passion and relentless drive for transformation here in our province… Together, we are poised to elevate our communication strategies to new heights, enhancing engagement, clarity, and impact across Northumberland.”
A Memorable Evening
Following the ceremony, the brethren enjoyed a fabulous festive board, the room alive with joviality and celebration—a fitting close to a memorable evening.
Brethren gathered at the festive board to mark this proud milestone for the Province.
We extend our warmest congratulations to W. Bro. Chris Ainsley on his investiture and look forward with confidence to the exciting chapter ahead under his leadership.