On Friday 27th February, brethren gathered at Old Boltonian’s Lodge to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone — the 50th anniversary in Freemasonry of WBro David Bleackley. In attendance was the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Dr Simon Archer, who was accompanied by an Area Deputation, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
A Golden Jubilee in the Craft is a rare and distinguished occasion. It marks not only longevity, but sustained commitment, service, and fidelity to the principles of Freemasonry. It was therefore a privilege for those present to honour David’s five decades of dedication.
David was initiated into Corinthian Lodge No.3767 on the 10th February 1976 — a time when both society and Freemasonry looked very different than today. From those early beginnings, he went on to serve his Lodge with distinction, being installed as Worshipful Master in November 1992 and again in November 2005.
Among his many contributions, David held the office of Director of Ceremonies for nearly nine years — a significant tenure in one of the most demanding and important offices within a Lodge. To be entrusted with that role for such a sustained period is testament to the respect, confidence, and affection in which he was held.
Following the amalgamation of his Lodge in 2005, David joined Old Boltonian’s Lodge in 2014, where he remains a valued member today.
His service to the Craft has been formally recognised by the Province on two occasions. He was appointed Past Provincial Grand Standard Bearer in 2002 and promoted to Past Provincial Junior Grand Deacon in 2012 — honours richly deserved in recognition of his dedication and commitment over many years.
Beyond the Craft, David was exalted into Red Rose of Lancashire Chapter No.9640 in 2004 and has continued to support the Royal Arch with equal enthusiasm. His wider Masonic involvement also includes significant service within the Mark Degree, where he has served as a Grand Steward and been an active member of the East Lancashire Mark Grand Stewards Mess — demonstrating his broader commitment to the family of Freemasonry. Outside the Lodge room, David enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the Police, rising to the rank of Chief Inspector.
As the evening concluded, David was presented with his illuminated 50-year certificate, together with a letter from the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, marking this significant and well-earned milestone.
On behalf of the Western Area and the Province, we extend our warmest congratulations to WBro Bleackley on achieving his Golden Jubilee. His dedicated service over the past 50 years is an example to us all — and we look forward to seeing that service continue in the years ahead.
