Technical Lodge No 5666Saturday 25th April 2026 – Wbro Anthony James ProvGStdB
The Infamous Five Go Visiting
For those familiar with the tales of The Famous Five series by Enid Blyton, this is a story in a similar spirit, though with rather more aprons and rather fewer lashings of ginger beer.
On a bright and cheerful Saturday afternoon, five brethren set off together on their journey to York for the Invictus installation. The party consisted of Anthony James, Ed Thompson, Allan McKay, Paul Draper, and Nada Kumar. Spirits were high as they began their small adventure, though these were momentarily dampened by the radio announcing that Hull City A.F.C. had once again been defeated by lower league opposition. It was not the most encouraging start, yet the promise of the evening ahead, and the welcome they knew awaited them, soon lifted the mood.
Upon arrival, they were greeted with warmth and genuine friendship, the sort that makes one feel immediately at ease, as though one had returned rather than arrived. Being a military lodge, there was a distinct character from the outset. A sense of camaraderie filled the room, accompanied by a steady stream of inter-forces banter, always good-humoured, never unkind. It lent the evening a lively and relaxed air, while never diminishing the dignity of the occasion.
The five took their seats as the Worshipful Master opened the lodge promptly at 16:30. There was a precision to the proceedings that reflected the lodge’s military connections, each movement measured, each word delivered with care. Early in the ceremony, a particularly striking moment occurred when the Inner Guard requested permission to “Stand the lodge to.” Permission was granted, and the Invictus badge was displayed. It was a distinctive and symbolic gesture, one that quietly set this lodge apart and gave pause for reflection.
Greetings were then offered by both Grand Lodge and Provincial Officers, followed by the formal reception of the representative of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master in Charge, Ian Siddel, in the traditional manner. The Worshipful Master then continued with the installation ceremony, requesting that all Entered Apprentices retire, allowing the lodge to be opened in the Second Degree.
The Master Elect, Brother Darren Hartshorn, took one of his obligations with composure. The lodge was then raised to the Third Degree, with those below the rank of a Master Mason retiring for a short time. Before the Board of Installed Masters convened, the Master Masons were also asked to retire, leaving only those entitled to remain.
Brother Darren Hartshorn was then installed into the Chair of King Solomon in due and ancient form, carried out with a precision that reflected the discipline of the lodge. Upon completion, he was warmly congratulated by the Installed Masters present. The Board was then closed, and the Master Masons were readmitted.
What followed was a moment both unusual and memorable. The Third Degree was closed by the Wardens through the enactment of the substituted secrets, referencing the loss of the genuine secrets following the untimely death of Hiram Abif. The Senior Warden then explained these substituted secrets to the Worshipful Master. Though this had been witnessed on a previous visit, it remained a rare and thoughtful piece of ritual, not often seen elsewhere, and one that invited quiet contemplation.
The lodge was then lowered to the Second Degree, the Fellowcrafts readmitted, and finally lowered again to the First Degree, allowing the Entered Apprentices to return. The Officers for the year were duly appointed, and the business of the evening brought to its conclusion.
Once more, the Inner Guard sought permission to “Stand the lodge down.” Permission was granted, and the Invictus badge was respectfully withdrawn, bringing a sense of completion to the earlier symbolism. The lodge was then closed in due form, and the brethren retired to the festive board.
As is often the case, the formalities began with the National Anthem and the traditional toasts. Yet what followed carried the same character that had marked the evening from the start. The earlier military banter returned, conversations flowed with ease, and the atmosphere softened into one of warmth and good fellowship.
It was, in every sense, a most enjoyable visit and a splendid evening of fellowship. Like any good adventure, it was shared in fine company. In total, 63 brethren were in attendance, with 59 dining, and the Infamous Five proudly made up 25% of the visiting brethren present. The night offered moments of interest, reflection, humour, and friendship, ending with that quiet satisfaction which only comes from time well spent. For any brother considering a visit, Invictus Lodge should be placed very high on the list.