Provincial Delegation Visits Derbyshire for Installation Meeting
Tuesday, 30 June 2026, saw a delegation from the Province of Northampton, Huntingdon and Bedford travel to The Grange, Derby Masonic Hall, to witness the Installation of E.Kt. Adam William Lancashire as Provincial Prior of Derbyshire.
Representing our Province were the Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Stephen Churchill, accompanied by the Sub Prior, E.Kt. Russell Laxton, the Vice Chancellor, E.Kt. Stephen Wood, the Provincial Grand Marshal, E.Kt. Nigel Dickens, and the Provincial Communications Officer, E.Kt. Rob Taylor.
The journey to Derby proved to be something of an adventure for our Provincial Prior and Sub Prior, who elected to travel by rail. Delays, cancellations and changing platforms tested both patience and planning, but with the assistance of a timely taxi journey, they arrived safely and in good time for the commencement of the meeting.
The Grange, an impressive former manor house situated on Burton Road, provided an excellent setting for the occasion. Its grandeur reflected the significance of the meeting, although the popularity of the event was evident from the very full car park, with vehicles occupying every available space and extending onto the surrounding grass verges.
The meeting commenced with the admission of the Most Excellent Grand Master, Paul Raymond Clement, who opened the Provincial Priory in due form, ably assisted by his Grand Officers. The procession of Provincial Banners, together with the calling of the roll of Preceptories, added colour and dignity to the proceedings and demonstrated the strength and unity of the Order.
The principal business of the day then followed, with the Most Excellent Grand Master installing E.Kt. Adam William Lancashire as Provincial Prior of Derbyshire. Following his Installation, the newly invested Provincial Prior assumed the Chair and proceeded to appoint and install his Sub Prior and Provincial Officers for the ensuing year.
A particularly impressive feature of the ceremony was the traditional carousel performed by the Grand Master’s Bodyguard, during which the newly appointed Provincial Officers were formally presented. Members of our own Province were delighted to see E.Kt. Mark Hudson serving as one of the Grand Master’s Bodyguard, carrying out his duties with the precision and dignity expected of those honoured to fulfil this important ceremonial role.
The meeting concluded in due and ancient form before all present joined together in singing the National Anthem. Thereafter, distinguished guests and Knights retired to enjoy pre-dinner refreshments, providing an opportunity to renew friendships, exchange greetings and enjoy the warm companionship that characterises our Order.
The Festive Board that followed was enjoyed in the customary atmosphere of harmony, dignity and good fellowship. Fine dining, thoughtful toasts and convivial conversation rounded off an excellent day, reflecting the enduring bonds of Christian chivalry and fraternal friendship that unite Knights throughout the Order.
We extend our warm congratulations to R.E.Kt. Adam William Lancashire on his Installation as Provincial Prior of Derbyshire and wish him, together with his officers, every success and every blessing for the year ahead.