Phoenix Lodge No. 9963 – Installation Night Ignites Beverley! 
Saturday 14th February 2026 , Masonic Hall, Trinity Lane, Beverley
What a day! Phoenix Lodge No. 9963 lit up Trinity Lane with an unforgettable Installation meeting as we proudly Installed W. Bro Paul Hillary PPSGW as our Worshipful Master for 2026–2027. The room was packed, the atmosphere electric, and the Ex Igne spirit was alive from the very first gavel! 
The Lodge opened in full form and warm welcomes were shared all around, members, visiting brethren, family, and friends. We were honoured and delighted to receive W. Bro Ian Sydell PSGW, representing the Assistant Provincial Grand Master in Charge.
The ceremony itself was delivered with dignified flair thanks to W. Bro Alex McCallum PPSGD, supported by a stellar team including:
W. Bro Tim Brooksbank PPSGW – Installing DC
W. Bro Ian Parkinson – Installing Chaplain
W. Bros Nigel Bell, Michael Cheeseman & Arash Vesali – Acting Officers
The Working Tools of all three degrees were explained beautifully by W. Bro Brooksbank, earning a huge round of appreciation. 
Ceremonial Highlights
Some truly outstanding addresses added warmth and gravitas to an already stunning ceremony:
Address to the Master – flawlessly delivered by visitor W. Bro Tony Dyer
Address to the Wardens – confidently given by visitor W. Bro Trevor Collinson
Address to the Brethren – warmly received from W. Bro Ian Parkinson
A Festive Feast to Remember
After the ceremony we tucked into a Gourmet Indian Curry Banquet crafted by the incredible Tim & Amanda, an absolute triumph! Laughter, brotherhood, and heartfelt toasts filled the festive board.
A further thank you must go to W. Bro Jack Sharp for the donation of the cake 
Masonic Craft Beer & Real Ale Showcase
A Phoenix favourite! This time featuring brews from Jolly Sailor Brewery, complete with tasting notes from W. Bros Steele, Hillary and Bros Smith and Newton. From crisp Selby Blonde to rich Selby Stout, every glass sparked conversation and camaraderie. 
Charity at the Heart of the Night
The Worshipful Master announced:
£750 raised for the Provincial Festival 2029
£500 of which was donated by Tim from banquet proceeds
£311 raised by raffle for Zarach, helping children living in bed poverty
Leftover food went to both charity fundraising and those in need locally, a true example of Masonic compassion.
Upcoming Adventures
Brethren were encouraged to join the Masonic Steam & Ale Event with St Peter and Harmony No. 600 on 1st August 2026, plus hopes for:
A visit to Northern Monkey Brewery
A future Phoenix Lodge Beer Festival (watch this space!)
And Then… the Disco!
DJ Starkey kept the energy high and the dance floor full, an enthusiastic finale to a spectacular evening. 
Congratulations, W. Bro Paul Hillary PPSGW! Here’s to a fantastic year ahead under your leadership.
Ex Igne – From the Fire, We Rise.
Phoenix Lodge No. 9963