In the early hours of Sunday 9 November 2025, the City of Southampton came together for its annual act of remembrance — and among the many organisations taking part were the Brethren of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Hampshire & Isle of Wight’s South-Central Area. The contributions of the Freemasons from this region added both dignity and tradition to the city’s tribute to those who have served and sacrificed.
The muster time was 10:30 a.m., as announced for the parade participants, the location: Guildhall Square in Southampton, where contingents of veterans, serving personnel, community groups — and the Freemasons — formed up before the march. The brethren were asked to wear their Masonic collars as a symbol of respect and unity.
Their participation is rooted in a long-standing connection between Freemasonry and the armed services — values of service, integrity and community underpin their attendance
At around 10:35 a.m., the parade set off from Guildhall Square, making its way to the Cenotaph in Watts Park for the formal Remembrance service. Upon arrival, proceedings began just before 11:00 a.m. and continued for about an hour. The ceremony honoured not only those who gave their lives in past conflicts but also recognised the ongoing dedication of veterans, serving members of the armed forces, and their families — a sentiment shared by both civic leaders and the Freemasons in attendance.
The participation of the South Central Area Freemasons reflects the strengthened commitment embodied in the Armed Forces Covenant, recently signed by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). This pledge reaffirms Freemasonry’s enduring support for those who serve, or have served, in the armed forces and for their families.
Many Freemasons are themselves veterans or reservists, reinforcing the Craft’s deep and personal ties to the military community. Their involvement also extends to local remembrance initiatives, including the Poppy Appeal, which in the South Central Area is coordinated by W. Bro. Steve Blake, himself a veteran. Standing shoulder to shoulder with veterans, civic leaders, and community organisations, the Freemasons’ presence symbolised unity, service, and shared remembrance.
The event served as a powerful reminder that remembrance extends far beyond ceremony — it is an enduring act of community, respect, and continuity. Southampton, with its proud maritime and service heritage, provided a fitting and poignant setting for this shared reflection.
For the Freemasons of South Central Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, participation forms part of a wider ethos: championing charitable causes, nurturing fellowship, and strengthening bonds between Freemasonry and the wider community.
Their visible presence at the parade highlighted the Craft’s ongoing contribution to civic life, especially in moments of remembrance that carry profound collective meaning.
As the 2025 commemorations drew to a close, one message resonated clearly — communities such as Southampton continue to honour those who served, those who serve today, and those who support them. The Freemasons of the region remain an integral part of that tradition — walking the march, standing at the cenotaph, and reaffirming their lasting commitment to remembrance and service.