Over 500 Brethren, Family & Friends will shortly be arriving at Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street, London for the Buckinghamshire Annual Provincial Meeting. A great day of celebration amongst friends and Brothers.

Today also marks our Provincial Grand Master's first official meeting as the head of Buckinghamshire Freemasons, which is also something fantastic to celebrate.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Preparation fun for PGL.

All events take a team behind the scenes and on the ground in advance of them happening and on the day itself.  Today is the day before our annual Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting, the biggest event in our calendar.

The busy beavers have been at Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street since 9:30 this morning setting up and preparing all elements for the big day tomorrow, while at the same time having fun too.  Lots involved an to ddo to ensure the 500 attendees have a fantastic and memorable day

Freemasonry really does bring people together, fun had, friendships formed and bonds created that last for life.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Lodge of Concorde Remember the Few

Eighty-five years have passed since the Battle of Britain, when “the Few” defended the skies of southern England against the Luftwaffe. To honour that courage, the Lodge of Concorde met in the historic Battle of Britain Bunker—once the nerve centre of RAF Uxbridge and the command hub of 11 Group. This remarkable venue provided a deeply atmospheric setting for a memorable Lodge meeting.

The evening began with welcome drinks in the Visitor Centre, surrounded by wartime displays. Among the distinguished guests were Provincial Grand Master Tim Anders and his wife, and Past Provincial Grand Master John Clark and his wife. Guests divided into two groups; brethren for the Lodge meeting and partners for a private tour, before descending the same seventy-six steps once taken by Churchill and King George VI, a symbolic journey into history.

The Lodge opened its meeting and swiftly completed its business, welcoming two new members in what must be one of the most historic Masonic settings imaginable. Meanwhile, guests enjoyed a guided tour of the Bunker, culminating in the famous plotting room where Britain’s air defence strategy was shaped. Guide Daisy vividly explained the Dowding System and its vital role in victory. Once the meeting concluded, the brethren joined their guests, and the story of those desperate days came alive once more.

Afterwards, everyone ascended to the Visitor Centre, greeted by Prosecco, 1940s music, and a WAAF performer in period dress. Canapés and vol-au-vents added elegance to a lively celebration. Worshipful Master Graham Thorne gave thanks and made a touching presentation of cufflinks fashioned from metal of the Spitfire P7350 to a guest celebrating his eighty-fifth birthday—on Battle of Britain Day itself.

The evening closed with toasts to the King and to “the Few,” a spirited raffle, and a superb total of £1,000 raised for the RAF Benevolent Fund. The memory of the night—and the heroes it honoured—will long endure.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

We would like to wish the Grand Master of United Grand Lodge of England, HRH The Duke of Kent, a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, has been the Grand Master of UGLE since his installation on 14 June 1967 holding held his significant leadership role for over 50 years. Initiated into Royal Alpha Lodge No. 16 on 16 December 1963 making him the 10th Grand Master of the UGLE and the organisation's longest-serving leader. 

As Grand Master, he presides over the UGLE, the governing body of Freemasonry in England and Wales. 

The Master Mason

The apron of a Master Mason represents the highest honour within the symbolic degrees of Freemasonry, embodying the culmination of moral instruction, spiritual enlightenment, and fraternal responsibility. Distinguished by its more elaborate ornamentation, blue edging, 3 rosettes, the addition of blue edged triangular flap and two tassels with 7 chains attached to each.  It signifies not only advancement in Masonic rank but also the deeper moral and philosophical lessons entrusted to those who have attained this degree.

Where the Entered Apprentice Apron symbolises innocence and the Fellowcraft Apron represents learning and progress, the Master Mason Apron stands as a badge of maturity, wisdom, and dedication. Its design reflects the Mason’s readiness to assume the full duties of membership, embracing the virtues of fidelity, integrity, and brotherly love. The Master Mason is called upon to embody these principles both within the Lodge and in the wider world, serving as an exemplar of the Craft’s teachings.

In its dignity and beauty, the Master Mason Apron reminds every Brother of the honour and responsibility conferred by the degree. It calls upon him to labour not only for personal growth but also for the betterment of humanity, ensuring that the principles of Freemasonry; truth, morality, and charity, shine forth through his words and deeds. As the highest symbol within the Craft degrees, it binds together the lessons of the past and the hopes for the future, resting upon the timeless foundations of Masonic tradition.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Just one week to go until the Buckinghamshire Provincial Grand Meeting.

The countdown has begun for our annual meeting at Freemasons Hall, London. Approximately 500 brethren, family and friends will be in attendance to watch and support fellow Brothers receive appointments and promotions within the grand setting of this magnificent art deco building, Home of the United grand Lodge of England.

Once again, Buckinghamshire Freemasonry has shown that it can do something different, creative, and truly memorable.

On Saturday 27th September, an extraordinary gathering took place when brethren from the three sports lodges – Football, Rugby, and Cricket came together for a very special joint meeting. Each of these lodges brings its own character, energy, and fun interpretation to Freemasonry, and the aim of this occasion was not only to celebrate that uniqueness but also to strengthen ties between them, fostering friendships and mutual support for the future.

The meeting began promptly at 2:45p.m. with the Football Lodge opening proceedings. In a lively and memorable ceremony, Brother James Robinson was initiated into the Craft. A passionate Liverpool supporter, James was led around the temple accompanied by the stirring melodies of You’ll Never Walk Alone and Ferry Across the Mersey. Thanks to the superb sound system at the Slough Masonic Centre, the ceremony took on an atmosphere of both dignity and joy, reflecting the spirit of the lodge and leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

No sooner had the Football Lodge concluded their business than the Rugby Lodge took to the floor. They, too, used the occasion to initiate a new brother, welcoming Brother Ahmet Boz into their ranks. The Rugby brethren had embraced the day as a full “away fixture” and turned out in great numbers to support their candidate. Both James and Ahmet were later treated to a word-perfect delivery of the Charge by Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W. Bro. Matt Perkins, whose polished and heartfelt words added further gravitas to an already impressive occasion. The temple was filled with nearly 70 brethren, and the packed attendance amplified the sense of occasion and celebration.

With the formalities complete, the brethren retired to the bar where the festive board took on an informal, relaxed, and thoroughly enjoyable tone. Instead of the traditional meal, guests were treated to a casual feast of burgers, hot dogs, and pizza – a true sports lodge banquet. To top it off, a professional concert pianist entertained throughout, adding a touch of elegance and making the afternoon feel all the more special.

What stood out most was the spirit of togetherness. Lodges came together, supported one another, and demonstrated that Freemasonry thrives when it embraces creativity and community spirit. This was Freemasonry with a modern, light-hearted twist – yet still steeped in tradition and brotherhood.

For those wishing to experience these vibrant lodges for themselves, there are fixtures already in the calendar. The Rugby Lodge will hold an emergency meeting at the Bletchley Masonic Centre on 21st November, while the Football Lodge meets again on Saturday 25th October at Chesham Football Club – a gathering which will include the Aylesbury United v Hadley match as part of the day’s events.

Buckinghamshire is proving, once again, that Freemasonry is alive, well, and always ready to try something new.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

The Fellowcraft Apron

The apron of a Fellowcraft Mason marks an important stage in the Masonic journey, representing progress in knowledge, character, and responsibility. While the Entered Apprentice Apron reflects the innocence and humility of the initiate, the Fellowcraft Apron bears additional ornamentation, often with blue rosettes or trim, signifying advancement and the growing light of understanding. It embodies the Mason’s transition from the foundations of moral instruction toward the pursuit of greater wisdom and the liberal arts and sciences.

Historically, as operative masons acquired greater skill and experience, their aprons became emblems not only of their trade but also of their status within the craft. In speculative Masonry, this progression finds expression in the Fellowcraft Apron, whose decoration symbolises refinement of character and intellectual development. The Fellowcraft degree thus celebrates the balance between the practical and the intellectual, the physical and the spiritual, urging every Mason to cultivate both heart and mind.

The Fellowcraft Apron reminds the Mason that he is no longer a novice but a craftsman in the symbolic sense, one expected to labour diligently, to study earnestly, and to conduct himself with integrity in all aspects of life. As he wears this apron within the Lodge, he bears the visible token of his commitment to moral improvement and intellectual growth, standing one step closer to the fullness of Masonic light.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

BMGS at Silverstone 

The sun shone on this, the final domestic competition of 2025 at Silverstone Golf Club, where they played for the Founders Trophy, won by Peter Smith from Observatory Lodge and the Scratch Trophy won by Nigel Gough from St Lawrence Lodge.

The Bucks Masonic Golf Society had a knockout competition running through the summer which this year was won by W Bro Mick Platt also of St Lawrence Lodge.  

The object of the society is to communicate with like minded brethren, to have a fun day whilst attempting to play their favourite sport, another very important object is to raise some money for charity, at the AGM it was agreed to donate £400 to each of the following 6 charities:-     Jerusalem Eye Hospital Alzheimers, Aylesbury   and  

The society has one golf day left on the 9th October, a match against Berkshire at Huntswood golf club, I’m sure they’ll all do their best to bring the trophy back home.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

The Entered Apprentice Apron

The Entered Apprentice Apron holds a place of profound significance within Freemasonry, serving as both a practical emblem and a deeply symbolic garment. Presented to a candidate upon initiation, it marks the first tangible connection to the ancient traditions of the Craft. Its pristine white colour, often fashioned from lambskin, signifies purity of life and rectitude of conduct, qualities that every Mason is called upon to uphold as he embarks upon his Masonic journey.

In its simplest form, the Entered Apprentice Apron reflects the operative roots of the fraternity. Historically, it was the working tool of stonemasons, offering protection from the rough edges of stone while simultaneously distinguishing members of the craft from those of other trades. Over time, as Freemasonry evolved from an operative to a speculative society, the apron transcended its purely practical function to assume a spiritual and moral dimension, becoming a badge of innocence and a symbol of the dignity of labour.

For the Entered Apprentice, the apron serves as a constant reminder of his duties and obligations within the Lodge and beyond. Its unadorned design speaks to the humility and simplicity expected of a new initiate, who stands at the threshold of Masonic knowledge and moral development. As he progresses through the degrees of Masonry, the apron will evolve in form and ornamentation, mirroring his personal growth in wisdom, virtue, and fraternal service.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

A United Bike Ride: Masons from Buckinghamshire, Middlesex & Hertfordshire Hit the Road

Freemasons from Buckinghamshire, Middlesex, and Hertfordshire recently came together for a fantastic day of cycling, taking on routes from 15 to 60 miles. The ride set off from the historic Royal Masonic Girls’ School in Rickmansworth — a fitting location for the start of a memorable day.

One Simple Idea, Brilliantly Pulled Off

The event was organised by Middlesex Mason Peter Lawrence, with support from brethren across all three provinces. It provided a great opportunity for members to enjoy a steady ride through beautiful surroundings, connect with one another, and build momentum ahead of a larger cycling event planned for next year.

PGMs in the Peloton

Taking part were Tim Anders (Buckinghamshire), David Allen (Middlesex), and Neil Connolly (Hertfordshire) — our Provincial Grand Masters leading by example on two wheels! It was a great reminder of how much we can achieve when we come together, enjoying each other's company and support a shared cause.

And I'm pleased to report that they didn't keep their chains on for the ride.

Rolling On from Here

This ride was just the beginning. The enthusiasm and camaraderie on the day are already fuelling plans for something even bigger in 2026. 

Big Thanks All Round

A huge thank you to Peter Lawrence for getting things rolling, and to all the volunteers who helped make the day such a success. We’re already looking forward to the next one — and seeing even more of you out on the road with us!

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

The Apron

The apron is the most recognisable symbol of a Freemason and is often the first thing non-Masons mention when discussing our fraternity.

Its origins date back to the time of operative masons, who required protective clothing while working with large blocks of stone. The constant risk from rough edges and flying chips of stone made such a garment essential. In those early days, the apron was much longer, covering not only the body, but also the lower legs. It was likely secured with laces around both the neck and the waist for better protection and stability.

Typically made from durable calf or sheepskin materials that were both strong and readily available during the Middle Ages, the operative mason’s apron was purely functional, with no decoration or ornamentation. However, it served to set masons apart from other tradesmen, each of whom wore their own distinct style of apron.

Over the next few weeks we will explain the different aprons you will see Freemasons wearing in the UK.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Throughout August, the Daisy Communications Prudhoe office was busy running games, activities, and treat stalls, all in aid of TLC Teddies.

WBro Buckingham of Haddenham Lodge 8944  suggested the charity in a company poll and was thrilled when they voted in favour.  Staff engaged in Teddy Bear Picnics, Sweet Treat Fridays, Name The Bear competition, Bring your Teddy To Work, Best Dressed Bear,  Guess the Jelly Bears in the Jar, a Bear Hunt, and many more activities to raise money for the charity.

TLC would like to thank everyone’s generosity in the office where £230 was raised.

Teddies for Loving Care  provide teddy bears to distressed children in Accident & Emergency Units, a small simple gesture that brings a large amount of comfort in difficult moments.

Thank you to the Daisy Group  Prudhoe team for your support.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Charity’s presence in the corridor is gentle, yet deeply moving. Clad in soft tones of gold and rose, she stands with open arms, as if ready to welcome anyone who approaches. Her posture is warm, not commanding, a quiet assurance that compassion does not need to announce itself to be powerful.

In the stained glass, a small child rests at her side, looking up with trust. In her hands, she offers bread and a cloak, symbols of care for both body and spirit. Behind her, the light filters through a serene landscape, suggesting that the kindness we give can bring calm and renewal to others.

At her feet, a flowering vine winds upward, its blooms opening toward the light. It speaks to me of how even the smallest acts of generosity can take root and grow, reaching further than we might ever see.

Charity, as we’ve come to understand it, is more than giving material aid. It’s about giving of oneself; time, patience, empathy, without expectation of return. In the Lodge, it is woven into our obligations; in life, it’s a call to see the humanity in everyone we meet.

This window reminds us that the truest charity is not loud or public. It is the quiet decision to help when no one is watching, to extend a hand when it would be easier to turn away. Like the vine at her feet, such acts may begin small, but with care, they can grow into something that sustains and uplifts all around them.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Retirement of W.Bro Matthew Perkins, PSGD and Appointment of W.Bro James Blackhurst, PAGStB

Brethren,
A BIG Thank You to W.Bro Matthew Perkins, PSGD

W.Bro Matthew Perkins is stepping down as Assistant Provincial Grand Master.
Matthew’s reputation as a hardworking, committed, and forward-thinking Mason is known across the Province. He has consistently delivered, whether supporting individual Lodges, contributing to new initiatives, or working side by side with Brethren to ensure success. His commitment to Buckinghamshire Freemasonry has been faultless.

Matthew joined the Provincial team in 2017 as a Provincial Grand Steward. He went on to serve as Provincial Grand Pursuivant for two years before being appointed Editor of Concord magazine. From there, he became Provincial Communications Officer, where he was instrumental in reshaping the Province’s digital marketing strategy. His vision and determination transformed the way Buckinghamshire Freemasonry engaged with prospective candidates and left a legacy that continues to benefit the Province today.

He later served as Provincial Junior Grand Warden before being appointed as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master. In this role, he headed up the Justice Group, guiding its growth and development year after year. He also played a central role in major Provincial initiatives, assisting in the organisation of BIG100 and BIG123, and devising the hugely successful 12 Days of Christmas campaign with W.Bro Neil Robertson.

I would personally like to thank Matthew for his unwavering support, creativity, and friendship. His contribution to Buckinghamshire Freemasonry has been outstanding, and the Province owes him a great debt of gratitude.

Appointment of W.Bro James Blackhurst, PAGStB

I am also delighted to announce that W.Bro James Blackhurst will be appointed as Assistant Provincial Grand Master in succession to Matthew.

James was initiated into Manor of Swanburn Lodge No. 8647 in 2002 and became Master in 2010. He was made a Provincial Grand Steward in 2012 and went on to serve as Assistant Secretary and Secretary of the Stewards Lodge for the past nine years. His progression through ceremonial roles includes serving as Steward Escort in 2013 and later as Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies (2018–2020).

Appointed Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 2020, James has continued to serve the Province across many areas and Lodges. He was further recognised in April 2024 with his first Grand Rank as Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer.
His recent contributions include the revitalisation of Dagmar Lodge into the Buckinghamshire Rugby Lodge, serving on the Board of Bletchley Masonic Hall, and helping to launch the highly successful Bring a Friend initiative, which has welcomed many new candidates into our Lodges. He has also been a strong supporter of Provincial initiatives such as 12DX and BIG123.

Brethren, please join me in offering heartfelt thanks to Matthew for his years of exceptional service, and in extending a warm welcome and our best wishes to James as he joins the Provincial Executive as Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

Fraternal regards,
RW.Bro Tim Anders
Provincial Grand Master

The Big Summer Social Hits the Target

Last week saw 40 Freemasons, friends, and family gather at Common Leys Shooting Ground for "The Big Summer Social” a great day out designed to keep the spirit of Freemasonry alive and thriving during the summer break.

With visitors from Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire, the morning kicked off with the essentials, tea, coffee, bacon rolls, and plenty of good-natured chatter. The group then split in two: some tried their hand at the Try-a-Shoot session, 25 clays, full tuition, and lots of laughs, while the more experienced shooters headed out for the 100-clay challenge.

There was a real buzz throughout the day, helped along by the presence of both PGM Tim Anders (Buckinghamshire) and PGM Stephen Tucker (Oxfordshire), who came along to lend their support and enjoy the fun. Also taking part were members of Oxon Bangers (Oxfordshire’s Masonic shooting group) and Slough Daylight Lodge No. 9699, Buckinghamshire’s very own shooting lodge.

After all the action, everyone gathered for a cracking BBQ and an awards ceremony in the beautiful surroundings of Common Leys Farm, that was full of laughs and light-hearted banter. The spoils were evenly spread:

Try-a-Shoot Winner – Bro Jag Sandu (Bucks)
Dark Blues Winner – WBro Phil McDonald (Oxfordshire)
Light Blues Winner – Bro Leon Gill (Bucks)
“Couldn’t Hit a Cow’s A**e With a Cricket Bat" trophy – WBro Dougie Leacy (Berks), taken in great humour!

And yes, it wouldn’t be a Masonic event without a raffle! In total we raised a fantastic £335 for the Thomas Ball Children’s Cancer Fund, and the total was topped up to £385 thanks to a generous £50 donation from the Light Blues Club of 
West Kent Freemasons, who couldn’t join us on the day but still wanted to show their support.

All in all, it was a brilliant day full of laughter and good company, proving once again that Freemasonry isn’t just about meetings and ritual, but also about friendship, fun, and doing a bit of good along the way.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

One topic from our recent "Using AI In Your Business" workshop is the Shadow AI Economy. It was highlighted in a recent MIT report.
Are you aware of it operating in your business?
It's the growing gap between slow, official enterprise AI adoption and agile employees using their own unauthorised tools to get the job done faster.
Research highlights that while around 40% of companies have purchased large language model (LLM) subscriptions, a staggering 90% of employees are already using them. Another study from Salesforce showed over 60% of employees use AI, often without their line managers' knowledge. Many employees feel they lack the right official tools, leading over half to use unauthorised solutions.
This trend shows employees are ready for AI, often more so than leadership realises. The challenge for leaders is to bridge this gap, providing effective tools to harness this enthusiasm without compromising security and strategy.
Watch the full webinar here: https://youtu.be/wwIg0MqVxvo

Justice stands in the corridor with a poise that is impossible to ignore. Draped in violet and silver, she holds a set of scales in one hand and a sword in the other. Yet neither tool feels heavy or threatening in her grasp. Her eyes seem fixed on something beyond the moment — as if weighing more than just the facts before her.

Behind her, the stained glass shows two paths. One is straight and filled with light; the other is winding and shaded. They seem to represent the choices we face and the outcomes they lead to. At her feet, a dove perches beside an open book — symbols of peace and truth, quietly reminding us that justice is not just about rules, but about the greater harmony they are meant to create.

Justice is a hard virtue to live by, because it requires us to face our own biases and admit when we've fallen short. It means treating others with the same fairness we would want for ourselves, even when emotions tempt us toward partiality.

In Masonry, we are told that Justice should be the guide of all our actions. This window reminds us that fairness is not always easy, but it is always worth striving for. Like the scales she holds, it’s about finding the right balance — not to tip toward favour, not to weigh too heavily with judgement, but to act with integrity so that peace, truth, and trust can flourish.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

24 young carers from Buckinghamshire enjoyed a day of Outdoor Adventures at Longridge Activity Centre in Marlow on 5th August 2025, facilitated by   and funded by our Freemasonry In The Community "Standup Comedy Night" held at the Beaconsfield Masonic Centre, supported by over 60 guests, including freemasons from 5 different lodges that make up Freemasonry in the Community (Beaconsfield), our friends and families.

"Just wanted to drop a thank you message to you and all of those involved for funding the day at Longridge. Thank you for providing this wonderful opportunity to the young carers we support." - Carers Bucks

We received many messages of thanks, and in particular, the parents of these young superstars also sent messages of thanks.

"It took him away for the whole day full of activities. Enjoyed time with other children and the adults. Great respite"

"Thank you so much for organising this day out – “L”really enjoyed it, and it’s something we can’t do with his sibling. He especially loved the SUP at the end. What a fantastic opportunity to try some exciting activities, and all very well organised."

“H” was reluctant to go along, concerned because she didn’t know if she’d know anyone there. But she said it was a brilliant day, she loved the laser tag in particular! Thank you."

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

Buckinghamshire Freemasons are holding a "BRING A FRIEND EVENT" where you can ask those questions.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
Time: 12:30
Location: Slough Masonic Centre
 
What to Expect:

Our event offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Buckinghamshire Freemasonry in an informal environment. You'll have the chance to:

Introduce yourself to Freemasonry
Learn about the good reasons to join Freemasonry, including personal growth, leadership development, and community impact
Uncover the history behind the mystery of Freemasonry and its enduring values
Ask those questions you have had niggling in the back of your mind
Find out about a masonic centre and lodge near to you

How to Book:

Secure your free place now by clicking on the link below.

https://buckspgl.org/events/provincial-events/bring-a-friend-september-2025