South Wales Freemasons were proudly represented in London at the prestigious annual investiture ceremonies hosted by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and the Supreme Grand Chapter (SGC). Held over two days, Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 April 2026, the events brought together members from across the country to recognise dedication, service, and achievement within Freemasonry.
Wednesday 29 April – UGLE (Craft)
Proceedings began with the Provincial Grand Master’s Craft Luncheon, held in the Galleon Suite at the Royal National Hotel. Guests gathered for cocktails at 12:15pm before sitting down to lunch at 12:45pm, offering an opportunity for fellowship ahead of the formal ceremonies.
During the luncheon, it was formally announced that Senior Warden, W.Bro. Jeffery T. Coles, PJGD of Llanfair Lodge No. 7353, will be appointed as Provincial Senior Grand Warden for the ensuing year. In addition, W.Bro. D. Philip Hanney, PPrJGW of Cwm Rhondda Lodge No. 9692, was named as Provincial Junior Grand Warden.
The new Provincial Grand Wardens will be Appointed and Invested at Provincial Grand Lodge in Cardiff on Monday, 29th June 2026.
Later in the afternoon, attendees moved to Freemasons’ Hall for the Meeting of Grand Lodge, held from 3:15pm to approximately 5:15pm. During this session, honours and appointments within the Craft were formally conferred, recognising the valuable contributions of members from South Wales and beyond.
The Provincial Grand Master was especially delighted to be present to support those Brethren receiving honours in Grand Rank, marking a proud and memorable occasion for all involved, including those receiving first appointments – W.Bro. Philip W. Davies to PAGDC, W.Bro. Robert J. Free to PAGDC and W.Bro. Richard Thomas to PAGDC.
Thursday 30 April – SGC (Royal Arch)
The second day focused on Royal Arch Masonry, beginning with the Meeting of Supreme Grand Chapter at Freemasons’ Hall at 11:15am. This important gathering saw further honours and appointments announced, continuing the celebration of service within the Order.
Following the morning’s proceedings, the Grand Superintendent’s Royal Arch Luncheon was held at Mark Masons’ Hall, with lunch served at 1:30pm. During the luncheon, M.E. Comp. E. Paul Roberts, PPrGSwdB of Dr. Hall Chapter No. 3161, was announced as Scribe N. for the ensuing year—an appointment warmly received by those in attendance.
The new Provincial Scribe N. will be Appointed and Invested at the Annual Convocation of Provincial Grand Chapter in Cardiff on Friday, 5th June 2026.
Celebrating Achievement and Service
These annual investitures remain among the most significant dates in the Masonic calendar, recognising members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and contribution. For South Wales, the ceremonies were a proud moment to celebrate brethren and companions whose dedication has been acknowledged at a national level.