Dear Sir and Brother
The Provincial Grand Master wishes to inform the Brethren that the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. R. Michael Coombes, will be stepping down at the end of March from his role leading the Membership Challenge for the Province of South Wales.
Over the past eighteen months, Michael has given considerable time, energy, and leadership to this important initiative. The Provincial Grand Master would like to place on record his most grateful thanks for the work that Michael has undertaken in laying firm foundations for the continued improvement of recruitment, retention, and the retrieval of members across the Province. His commitment and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the direction of this key strategic priority.
As a consequence, Michael will also retire from his office as Assistant Provincial Grand Master at the meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge on the 29th of June 2026.
The Provincial Grand Master has asked Michael, however, to remain as part of the Executive team of the Province, where he will work conjointly with W.Bro. Lyndon Howells to appoint and lead a new team focused on Ritual Excellence and Standards within the Province.
Further information regarding this important new initiative will be communicated to the Brethren in due course.
The Provincial Grand Master is extremely grateful to Michael for his continued support and service to the Province of South Wales.
Yours sincerely and fraternally,
W.Bro. Ben Gait, AGSec
Provincial Grand Secretary