by Tony Durkin, The Gazette, 2nd December 2022
Mark Matthews, from Southport, became the leader of the 8,000 Freemasons from more than 300 lodges across West Lancashire. The installation was conducted by a team of high-ranking Freemason from the United Grand Lodge of England in London. It was the first time in 41 years that the Pro Grand Master had officiated.
The ceremony was in two parts, with Mark also being installed as Grand Superintendent of the Royal Arch Province of West Lancashire. The day was a great display of pageantry with all the participants wearing their regalia, aprons, chains and collars, parading with dignity and grandeur.
