On Friday 9th May 2025 at Bridgend Masonic Hall, the Lodge bore witness to a truly momentous occasion as the Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. D. Gerald Rowbottom, presented V.W.Bro. Andrew Lindsay Gretton, PDepProvGM, with his 50-year certificate and commemorative lapel pin, marking five decades of unwavering service, leadership, and devotion to Freemasonry.
Initiated as a “Lewis” on 8th May 1975 into Observer Lodge No. 6015 under the watchful eye of his proud father, Bro. Arthur Gretton, Andrew quickly progressed through the offices of his Lodge with energy, dedication, and distinction. He reached the Chair of King Solomon on 10th February 1983, a milestone that would mark the beginning of an extraordinary Masonic journey.
His impressive Masonic résumé includes being the Primus Master of Welsh Installed Masters Lodge No. 9857, in 2010, (London), Worshipful Master of Dinas Llandaf Lodge No. 8512, in 1993, Centennial Master of Hendre Lodge No. 3250 in 2007, and most recently Worshipful Master of Lodge of Benevolence No. 7305 in 2021.
He is a subscribing member of six Craft Lodges and an honorary member of nine, a testament of his respect throughout the Province.
Andrew’s Masonic talent and ceremonial precision earned him Provincial recognition. Appointed Provincial Grand Steward in 1989, he rose quickly to Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies in 1992 and then to Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies in 1995, a role he fulfilled with unmatched excellence, setting a benchmark for future generations.
In April 1995, he was promoted to Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies (PAGDC). Later that year, he was entrusted with overseeing the complex arrangements for the installation of R.W.Bro. Hywel Davies as Provincial Grand Master and E.Comp. John Taylor as Grand Superintendent, two high-profile events delivered with precision and dignity at Builth Wells.
His remarkable service culminated in his appointment as Assistant Provincial Grand Master on 16th September 1999, followed by a promotion to Senior Grand Deacon in 2000. As a dedicated supporter of charitable efforts, Andrew chaired the successful “Freemasonry in the Community” initiative, bringing the Craft’s values to the wider public and setting an example that continues to resonate.
In 2006, in recognition of his reputation and leadership, he was invited onto the Council of The Freemasons’ Grand Charity by the MW Grand Master, HRH The Duke of Kent. The following meeting of the FGC was held for the first time in South Wales, hosted at Cardiff City Hall on 23rd October 2007, attended by over 500 delegates and their partners, a proud moment for the Province and for Andrew personally.
Appointed Deputy Provincial Grand Master in June 2007, he served with honour, wisdom, and humility for four years. He was promoted to Past Grand Sword Bearer and bestowed the prestigious title of Very Worshipful Brother. In 2010, he chaired the Festival in aid of the Grand Charity, guiding it to resounding success and raising over £4 million.
Since 2015, Andrew has served as Chair of the Masonic Benevolent Fund of South Wales, ensuring that brethren and their families receive the care and support they need. His empathy, vision, and moral compass continue to shine brightly even 50 years into his Masonic journey.
Reflecting on his Masonic life, Andrew has always cited his initiation, in the presence of his father as his most cherished memory. He proudly refers to his time as Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies as the “best job in the Province,” and in 2012, he expressed his heartfelt concern for preserving the standards and traditions of the Craft against the tide of unchecked ambition.
The evening was made even more special with the presence of R.W.Bro. Gareth Jones, OBE, PProvGM and Past Assistant Grand Master, a close friend and longtime supporter of Andrew.
V.W.Bro. Andrew Gratton’s 50 years of Masonic service have left an indelible mark on the Province of South Wales and beyond, a legacy of dedication, humility, and excellence that continues to inspire all who follow.