On a bright and lively evening that perfectly captured the spirit of Middlesex Masonry, more than 165 brethren gathered to celebrate the long-awaited return of the Provincial Grand Officers Club (PGO Club). Its reinstatement marks a clear sign that the Province, under the leadership of RW Bro David Allan, Pro Provincial Grand Master, is listening closely to its members and responding to their wishes.
The atmosphere was one of enthusiasm and renewed connection as the club was formally relaunched. During the evening, the leadership team guiding the club forward was announced, with W Bro John Leggett taking on the role of Chairman and W Bro Nigel Harris-Cooksley appointed as Secretary. Their stewardship will help ensure the club becomes a welcoming forum for fellowship, discussion, and the sharing of ideas among Provincial Grand Officers.
The structure of the revitalised club reflects its purpose: membership will be limited to Provincial Grand Officers, each able to invite up to three guests. Meetings will be held twice a year, alternating between the Harrow Masonic Centre and the Twickenham Masonic Centre, taking place each March and October. In keeping with the spirit of accessibility and inclusivity, there will be no subscriptions, and members who previously contributed have been invited either to request a refund or apply the amount to their next meal. Those with ideas for future discussions are warmly encouraged to share their preferred agenda topics with John or Nigel.
The evening also provided an opportunity to celebrate and announce several significant provincial appointments. RW Bro David Allan confirmed the forthcoming appointments of:
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Mark Millard as Assistant Provincial Grand Master
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Frankie Whelan-Mellor as Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies for both Royal Arch and Craft
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Julian Saunders as 3rd Principal in the Royal Arch
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Malcolm Johnstone as Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals (APGP)
At the same time, the Province expressed sincere thanks to those who are stepping down from their roles: Paul Sully (APGM), Robert King (3rd Principal), and Geoff Stuttaford (APGP), whose dedicated service has been greatly appreciated.
Further recognition was given through active rank appointments:
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Alan Russell (APGP) – reappointed to active rank, C6503 Fortitude
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Don Campbell (APGP) – reappointed to active rank, C9120 Prince Michael of Kent
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Malcolm Johnstone (APGP) – promoted to active rank, C1194 Royal Middlesex
Another highlight of the evening was the enthusiastic launch of the Middlesex 31 Festival. Festival Chairman W Bro Paul Sully delivered an engaging and informative presentation outlining the aims and aspirations of the festival. Many brethren who had already pledged their support proudly collected their honorific jewels and lapel pins, while others were inspired to sign up on the night and immediately join in wearing their festival jewels with pride.
The evening concluded in traditional fashion with the usual toasts, accompanied by a palpable sense of optimism and renewed friendship. The successful return of the PGO Club is more than just the revival of a gathering, it is a reaffirmation of the Province’s commitment to fellowship, engagement, and listening to the voices of its members.
With such an encouraging start, the future meetings of the PGO Club promise to be occasions that strengthen bonds across the Province and celebrate the shared journey of Middlesex Freemasonry.
Story by Nigel Harris-Cooksley, Edited by Pete Swatton ProvGCO
