“To take on this role at Queen Street, my Masonic home, in the presence of so many friends and colleagues, was both meaningful and humbling,” says the new Sunderland-born assistant head of the region’s Freemasons.

Sunderland-born and raised, Paul Swansbury, 52, has been promoted to Assistant Head of Durham Freemasons following a ceremony held on Friday, 9 January 2025, at Freemasons Hall, Queen Street East, Sunderland, the oldest purpose-built Masonic Hall in continuous use in the world.

Durham Freemasons Executive Team (John Henry, Tom Gittins, John Watts, Andrew Foster, Martin Rankin & Paul Swansbury) | (Picture: Keith Blundy)

placeholder image — Durham Freemasons Executive Team (John Henry, Tom Gittins, John Watts, Andrew Foster, Martin Rankin & Paul Swansbury) | (Picture: Keith Blundy)

The promotion recognises his long-standing service to Freemasonry in the Province of Durham and his work in managing and developing its portfolio of building assets.

In his new role, he will take the lead for Durham Freemasons in the Northeastern part of their area and assume overall executive responsibility for their estates’ strategy.

He moves up from Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works, a role he has held since 2023, during which time estates governance, maintenance planning, and long-term strategic oversight were strengthened across the Durham Freemasons area.

The Grade I-listed Queen Street East building, built in 1758 and named Phoenix Hall after the lodge that founded it, which Paul had managed for many years and regarded as his Masonic home, provided a fitting setting for the ceremony.

It saw John Watts, Head of Durham Freemasons, install him into his new role, surrounded by friends and colleagues from across Freemasonry.

Paul receives his certificate of initiation from John Watts | (Picture: Keith Blundy)

Speaking on the appointment, John Watts said, “Paul’s promotion reflects both his deep commitment to Freemasonry and the professionalism he brings to every role. His calm, effective leadership and deep understanding of estates management have been invaluable to us.”

Watts added: “I am delighted that Paul will now take the lead for the North East and assume executive responsibility for our estates strategy. Supported by Stanley-based David Turner, who is promoted to Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works, the Province is extremely well positioned for the future.”

Introduced to Freemasonry in 1995 at age 21, Paul has been a member for 30 years. After becoming more actively involved in 2009, he went on to hold several senior leadership roles and has been widely recognised for his commitment, experience, and leadership both within Durham and nationally, alongside his involvement in other Freemasonry orders.

Alongside his Masonic career, he brings extensive professional experience in estates and facilities management in the public, private and third sectors.

Commenting on his appointment, Paul said, “I am deeply honoured by this appointment and thankful for the trust that has been placed in me. To take on this role at Queen Street, my Masonic home, in the presence of so many friends and colleagues, was both meaningful and humbling.

“I look forward to playing my part in supporting Freemasonry across the North East and working throughout the wider Durham Freemasons area to ensure our estates strategy continues to serve our members and our communities well.”