On Wednesday 11th February 2026, an historic and proud chapter was written in the annals of Freemasonry in South Wales.
After months of meticulous planning and preparation by the committed organising team, led by the Provincial Grand Secretary, W.Bro. Ben Gait, the day had finally arrived for the Installation of our new Provincial Grand Master.
The splendid Holland House Hotel in Cardiff proved a venue befitting such an important and prestigious occasion. Such was the popularity and esteem of the Provincial Grand Master Designate that more than 500 Brethren gathered in the capital to mark this momentous event.
The Pro Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Jonathan Spence, DL, accompanied by the Acting Grand Director of Ceremonies, Deputy Grand Directors of Ceremonies, and Deputy Grand Secretary, presided over the Installation of W.Bro. Robert G. Payne, Provincial Grand Master Designate.
At 12 noon, Brethren were requested to take their seats within the impressive Temple, specially prepared for the afternoon’s proceedings. A truly awe-inspiring spectacle unfolded; few present will have witnessed such a large and distinguished gathering of Freemasons in the Province.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge, accompanied by the Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of South Wales, entered in procession and duly opened Provincial Grand Lodge.
The Most Worshipful Pro Grand Master, accompanied by senior Grand Officers, and distinguished guests were then formally received. Having addressed the Brethren on the purpose of the meeting, he appointed his Wardens. The Patent for the Appointment of the Provincial Grand Master was examined, and the Acting Grand Director of Ceremonies was directed to form a Deputation to receive him.
The Patent was read by the Deputy Grand Secretary, after which W.Bro. Robert G. Payne was obligated and invested as Provincial Grand Master for the Province of South Wales. The Acting Grand Director of Ceremonies called upon all Brethren to salute the newly Installed Provincial Grand Master.
R.W.Bro. Robert G. Payne then immediately proceeded to re-appoint, obligate and invest his Executive:
- V.W.Bro. D. Huw E. Mosford as Deputy Provincial Grand Master.
Assistant Provincial Grand Masters:
- W.Bro. Christopher M. L. Davies
- W.Bro. Dr. Akram Baig
- W.Bro. R. Michael Coombes
- W.Bro. Timothy R. Clark (to be obligated and invested at a later date).
The Provincial Grand Master also obligated and invested W.Bro. Merrick C. Jones as Assistant Provincial Grand Master.
The Provincial Grand Master delivered an inspiring and forward-looking address leaving no one present in doubt that the future of the Province rests in very safe and capable hands. There being no further business, Provincial Grand Lodge was duly closed.
The after-proceedings were held at the historic and magnificent Cardiff Masonic Hall, where over 300 Brethren dined together across three dining rooms in a wonderful spirit of harmony and celebration.
Special thanks are extended to the whole team at Cardiff Masonic Hall for providing a truly exceptional dining experience, complemented by outstanding service, ensuring that this landmark day concluded in fitting style.