In March 2014 Right Illustrious Companion David John Blackburn was installed into charge of the Royal and Select Masters District of Surrey – only the third District Grand Master since the District was Constituted in 1994, having formerly been part of Middlesex and Surrey.

He was Admitted into the Order in July 2005, in Waverley Council No. 205 and now is a member of the Order’s Executive Committee.

During the past ten years, R.Ill.Comp. David has carried out the duties of his office with dignity and confidence and has furthered relations between the District and the Order’s headquarters at Mark Masons’ Hall, in London.

As he approaches the tenth anniversary of his installation, he has indicated that he feels it is now time to step aside in favour of a successor and, on behalf of Grand Council, we want to thank him for all that he has done for Cryptic Masonry during his time in charge of the District.

Because of R.Ill.Comp. David’s upcoming retirement, the Grand Master has been considering the appointment of a successor and I am very pleased to inform you that Ill.Comp. William Agnew Caughie, G.Swd.B., has accepted the invitation to be your next District Grand Master.

Ill.Comp. Caughie is well known to you and needs no introduction, and I am sure you will join me in congratulating him on his forthcoming preferment. His installation will take place on Saturday, 23 March 2024 and R.Ill.Comp. David will retire at midnight on Sunday, 10 March 2024.