6th January 2025
Dear Brethren,
I write to inform you of forthcoming changes within our Provincial team with effect from 9th April 2025.
WBro Andrew Moule, PSGD, has indicated his wish to step down as an Assistant Provincial Grand
Master. Andrew has served in this role with distinction since September 2021. Prior to this, he gave
10 years of exemplary service as Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals and as Second
Provincial Grand Principal. I am confident Andrew will continue to support our Province in the years
to come. On behalf of us all, I thank him for his steadfast commitment to Freemasonry and wish him
every success and happiness in the future. Andrew’s final day in office will be Tuesday, 8th April 2025.
I am delighted to announce that WBro Martin Rankin, AGDC, will succeed Andrew as Assistant
Provincial Grand Master. Martin’s tenure begins on Wednesday, 9th April 2025, at a ceremony to be
held at Eslington Lodge. A member of our fraternity for 33 years, Martin has served with great
distinction, particularly as Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies in both the Craft and Chapter. He
will remain in post as Chapter DC until our Provincial Grand Chapter Convocation in May 2025.
Martin’s area of responsibility will be the South West of the Province, with WBro Andrew Foster, PSGD
assuming responsibility for the South East. WBro Dr Rakesh Bhalla, SGD will continue to cover the
North West with WBro Clinton Leeks, PSGD supporting the North East.
Additionally, WBro David John Atkinson, PAGDC will be invested as Craft Provincial Grand Director
of Ceremonies at the same ceremony at Eslington Lodge and as Chapter Director of Ceremonies in
May at our Annual Convocation. David has demonstrated exceptional capability in his roles as
Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies and Provincial Deputy Grand Director of
Ceremonies. I have no doubt that he will excel in his new role.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the brethren mentioned for their dedicated service and wish them
every success as they embrace their new responsibilities.
With recent lodge closures and consecrations, we will
move the areas of responsibility for the AsstProvGM
as shown on the following page to take effect from
9th April 2025.
WBro Thomas Gittins, PJGD responsibility will remain
with masonic buildings and support of Members
Pathway.
Sincerely and fraternally,
RW Bro John Paul Thompson
Provincial Grand Master
Province of Durham
