On Thursday 16th April 2026, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Southern Area, WBro Wes Marchant PSGD, accompanied by a provincial delegation, was received into the regular meeting of the Lodge Meeting of Union No 268. As is standard practice, the acting Worshipful Master offered the APGM the Gavel. On this occasion, the offer was declined. Indeed, after introducing the delegation, the APGM in turn offered a Gavel to the WM; however, this was a special Gavel, as it was the Commemorative Maul presented to lodges that had been awarded the status of Grand Patron of the East Lancashire 2026 Festival.

The next business of the evening was to receive a presentation on the launch of the East Lancashire Level Club, delivered by Bro Andrew Robson, the deputy chairman of the ELLC. Other members of the ELLC were in attendance and contributed to the overall discussion of this important initiative. In addition to discussing the vision at the heart of the ELLC, the conversation covered initiatives in place to engage younger members, promote inclusivity within the Craft, and leverage modern technology to enhance communication. Andy mentioned that the senior leadership within the province has demonstrated its support for the project’s success and  has committed to supporting and guiding the Light Blue Masons on their Masonic journey.

The APGM continued the theme in his response to the toasts given at the ensuing social board and also updated the brethren in attendance on the success of the Province of Lancashire 2026 Festival, which has currently received pledges of £2,206,509 towards the £2,400,000 target.