Three cheers for returning Master at Hermes Lodge
Two awarded Rose Croix’s 31st degree
October 19, 2026
From classroom to Lodge makes it a night to remember
October 20, 2026Harjit Bains writes: Hermes Lodge celebrated the return of Les Darby to the Master’s chair in a ceremony attended by 40 brethren.
Conducted by WBro Dan Brocklebank, the installation was a fitting demonstration of the lodge’s strong ritual, teamwork, and fellowship.
The ceremony was eorganised by Lodge DC WBro H. Bains assisted by his ADC WBro Daniels.
Several brethren stepped in at short notice, with WBro Read, WBro Ball, WBro Patterson and WBro Fevrier all making valuable contributions and performing their duties to an excellent standard.
The occasion was further enhanced by the presence of WBro Hardcastle, Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, who accompanied WBro Ian Castledine on his official visit. Their attendance added distinction to an already special evening.
Following the ceremony, brethren gathered for an excellent festive board. The food was superb as always, and the evening continued in a warm and convivial atmosphere.
The toasts provided several memorable moments. WBro Daniels delivered the toast to the Province with distinction, followed by an excellent response from WBro Castledine. The toast to the officers of the lodge was given by Hermes Lodge’s newest member, Bro Nicholls, who acquitted himself admirably.
Bro Learmonth delivered the Junior Warden’s toast with sincerity and feeling, receiving an equally impressive reply from WBro Raferty. The toast to the Worshipful Master was proposed by the IPM, WBro Brocklebank, in a generous and complimentary tribute. This was followed by the Master’s Song, expertly performed by WBro Darlaston.
The Worshipful Master’s toast to the IPM and the presentation of the Past Master’s Jewel provided a fitting recognition of WBro Brocklebank’s two years in the Chair.
Hermes Lodge Officers
Worshipful Master: WBro Darby
Immediate Past Master: WBro Brocklebank (WBro Winter acting)
Senior Warden: Bro Paterson
Junior Warden: Bro Learmonth
Senior Deacon: Bro Lenton
Junior Deacon: Bro Rayer
Inner Guard: Bro Taylor
Tyler: WBro Read
Secretary: WBro Tuckett
Treasurer: WBro Daniels
Director of Ceremonies: WBro Bains
Assistant Director of Ceremonies: WBro Brocklebank
Mentor: WBro Read
Charity Steward WBro Fletcher
Almoner: Bro Taylor
Royal Arch rep : WBro Darby
Provincial social rep WBro Bains
Stewards: Bro Scott, Bro Latimer Russell, Bro Johnson and Bro Nicholls.
The installation was a proud occasion for Hermes Lodge, reflecting its commitment to excellent ritual, friendship and brotherhood.
