The Derbyshire Freemasons' Podcast

Some Freemasons are drawn to the fellowship. Some to the philosophy. Marcus Shufflebottom was drawn to the ritual - and Derbyshire Freemasonry is better for it. In this episode, Chris sits down with Marcus to explore a genuine passion for the working of Masonic ritual: what it demands, what it gives back, and why it matters more than many of us pause to consider. It’s a conversation about passion...

In this episode of  The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast , Chris sits down with  Peter Haymes , who is preparing to take on one of the most extreme endurance challenges on the planet - the  World’s Toughest Row  - crossing the Atlantic Ocean with a team of four friends, all in support of  Motor Neurone Disease (MND) charities . This is a fascinating and often eye-opening conv...

In this episode, Chris is joined by three remarkable guests who between them represent the very best of Derbyshire's sporting community - and whose values of discipline, perseverance, and fellowship resonate far beyond the arena. James and Anthony Wyatt bring the story of Derbyshire Allstars Badminton Club - a club built not just on competitive ambition but on the kind of inclusive, community-cent...

In this episode of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast, Chris is joined by Doug McConnachie and Chris Nicholas to explore how Derbyshire is opening its doors to the next generation of Freemasons. The conversation focuses on attraction events for both Craft and Royal Arch Chapters, explaining how these welcoming, informative gatherings give prospective members - and Master Masons considering the conc...

In this episode of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast , Chris is joined by Harry Paterson to talk about the vision and purpose behind the Cornucopia Chapter of Service ; an exciting new addition to Derbyshire Royal Arch Freemasonry . The conversation explores how the Chapter has been created to serve all Royal Arch Chapters across the Province , providing practical support, ceremonial assistance, a...

In this episode, Chris and his Proposer, Matthew Wainwright, share their experiences of taking the fourth regular ceremony in Freemasonry; exaltation into the Royal Arch. They talk about what it means to complete the Masonic journey begun in the Craft, the surprises and insights they found as new Companions, and how the Royal Arch has brought new depth and meaning to their friendship. If you are a...

It’s our annual Christmas Special , and hosts Andy and Chris take a moment to pause, reflect, and look back on an incredible year of podcasting across Derbyshire Freemasonry . In this festive episode, Andy and Chris revisit some of the standout moments from the past year, the inspiring conversations they’ve had, and the remarkable people who have given their time, insight, and passion to the podca...

Chris sits down with Steven Varley , Assistant Grand Master of UGLE , for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation recorded inside the beautiful Derby Masonic Hall temple. From his initiation in 1983 to his current role guiding Freemasonry at a national level, Steven reflects on his personal journey ; the challenges , successes , and the importance of supporting one another along the way. It’s an ep...

In this moving episode, Chris is joined by Joe Royle to explore the deep symbolism of the Vacant Chair ceremony , and how Freemasonry honours those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Together, they discuss the story of the Hall Stone Lodges , founded in the aftermath of the First World War to commemorate brethren who never returned, and the lasting legacy these lodges represent within our Craft. Joe...

In this episode, Chris talks with our Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Martin Giles, to shine a light on the beating heart of Derbyshire Freemasonry: our Masonic Halls. From the smallest lodge rooms to our headquarters at Derby Masonic Hall, “The Grange” , these spaces are far more than just meeting places. We celebrate the countless volunteers, staff, and governance teams whose dedication keeps...

In this episode, Chris sits down with Tony Harvey to explore the deep-rooted connections between Scouting and Freemasonry — two values-driven, fraternal institutions. Drawing on Tony’s renowned 2012 Prestonian Lecture , “Scouting & Freemasonry: two parallel organisations?” , they dive into how shared values of leadership, service, and moral development unite these traditions. They also reflect...

In this episode, Chris sits down with Simon Nobbs , a potential candidate for Freemasonry, to explore how a chance conversation on the way home from a gig opened the door to a whole new world of opportunities. From casual curiosity to meaningful connections, Simon shares his thoughts on discovering Freemasonry, the appeal of its traditions, and how an ordinary car journey sparked an extraordinary...

In this special episode, Andy sits down with W. Bro. Chris Taylor, Provincial Grand Charity Steward, to reflect on the culmination of the Derbyshire 2025 Festival — a landmark charitable campaign that has united Freemasons across the province. Chris shares insight into the incredible fundraising achievements by individual lodges, many of which surpassed their targets through years of dedication an...

In this inspiring episode, Chris chats with Danny Brown about his remarkable Masonic journey—from his very first steps as an initiate to achieving Provincial rank. Danny reflects on the milestones, mentors, and meaningful moments that shaped his path through the Craft. With honesty and enthusiasm, he shares the highs, the challenges, and the lessons learned along the way, offering a personal look...

In this episode, Chris sits down with Richard Hill , the newly appointed Chairman of The Porchway Club , to explore how this fantastic initiative is supporting and connecting new Freemasons across Derbyshire. Richard shares the mission behind the Porchway Club—creating a welcoming space where new Masons can build confidence, ask questions, and feel a true sense of belonging as they begin their Ma...

Derbyshire’s newest special interest lodge has arrived! In this episode, Chris sits down with Steve Frixou, Jeremy Thomas, and Aaron Stagg to talk all about The Rock Music Lodge—what it stands for, why it was formed, and what makes special interest lodges such a fantastic way to find a sense of belonging in Freemasonry. Blending time-honoured Masonic traditions with a fresh, contemporary approach,...

In this episode, Andy takes a step back into The Master’s Place as he reflects on his journey as Immediate Past Master of Amadeus Lodge. He’s joined by Scott Armitage, the current Worshipful Master, and Mike Presson, the Master Elect, for a candid conversation about their experiences before, during, and after their time in the chair respectively. What does it take to lead a lodge? How does the rol...

In this inspiring episode of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast , Chris sits down with Dale Bywater (Craft Learning & Development Officer) and Harry Paterson (Royal Arch Learning & Development Officer) to explore their cutting-edge approach to learning, development, and delivering unforgettable Masonic experiences in Craft and Royal Arch Masonry across Derbyshire. Dale and Harry share their...

Join Andy as he sits down with Philip Bowler , Special Events Coordinator, to uncover the incredible work that goes into creating unforgettable experiences in Derbyshire. From the meticulous planning to the generous investment of time, effort, and funds, Philip shares the heartwarming stories behind these events and their impact on the community. We also hear from Dean Jackson , who provides an ex...

Join Andy and Chris for a festive edition of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast ! In this Christmas Special, they reflect on an incredible journey through 2024, sharing highlights, challenges, and their favourite moments from the podcast so far. Looking ahead to 2025, they reveal an exciting roadmap for future episodes and initiatives that will bring the Derbyshire Freemasonry community closer than...

In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by Chris Taylor , the Provincial Charity Steward for Derbyshire Freemasons. Chris shares his insights on the 2025 Festival , a landmark initiative aimed at making a lasting impact on communities through generosity and support. Discover how Freemasons across Derbyshire dedicate their time, energy, and resources to support local and national good causes. From...

In this harmonious episode of the Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast, hosts Andy and Chris are joined by special guest Andy Booth to delve into the fascinating world of Masonic music. Together, they explore the profound connections between Freemasonry and music. As the conversation unfolds, Andy and Chris engage with Andy Booth on the broader impact of music in Freemasonry, from traditional lodge songs...

In this episode of the Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast, Chris is joined by Philip Meynell and Phillip Laing to discuss their experiences in the Derbyshire Motorcycle Lodge and the Royal Arch Chapter. They delve into the process of celebrating multiple ceremonies with candidates, highlighting how these ceremonies can be straightforward to implement. Philip and Phillip share their valuable insights an...

Join host Andy Glaves, Communications Officer for Derbyshire Freemasons, as he sits down with two esteemed leaders in the masonic community: Ian Copestake, Provincial Grand Master, and Martin Giles, Assistant Provincial Grand Master. In this enlightening episode, the trio delves into the newly unveiled Provincial Strategy for Derbyshire. Discover the vision behind this forward-thinking plan and wh...

Chris sits down with Malcolm Prentice, a dedicated masonic treasure hunter, to explore his remarkable efforts in repatriating and protecting Derbyshire's Masonic heritage. Join us for an enlightening conversation as Malcolm shares his insights, experiences, and the significance of his noble quest for both the masonic and care leaver community in Derbyshire. Whether you're a seasoned Freemason or s...