Name
Martin Francis
Position
Provincial Grand Charity Steward
What is your mother Lodge
PraNew Elizabethan 7419
Which year did you join Freemasonry
1992
What is/was your Career
Retired equity trader in the city
What first attracted you to Freemasonry
I was asked if I was interested in joining by my next door neighbour and my late father’s best friend, both of whom I respected greatly. Although I didn’t immediately say yes, I did a bit of research and in the summer of 1991 decided I’d like to join. I was initiated in May 1992 and have enjoyed Freemasonry ever since.
What do you enjoy doing outside of Freemasonry
Season ticket holder at Tottenham Hotspur. I also enjoy attending Saracens RFC matches when I’m not at Spurs. I enjoy the odd day at the races and golf tournaments. I am a member of the Worshipful Company of Needlemakers, and Bishopsgate Ward Club.
Who and why should somebody join Freemasonry
Any decent law-abiding man who would like to increase his circle of friends greatly, meeting people from different backgrounds and age-groups. A man who would like to develop as an individual, and help others around him and in his community.
Which other Freemason in the Province inspires you / and why
Colin Harris, I think that he brought the P.G.M. and his Executive team closer to rest of the membership within the Province, particularly the younger and newer members. When I joined in 1992 the Provincial team felt separate and distant, and would often drink in a different bar on Installation meetings. After 2003 it felt more collegiate and “Level”. He began shaping and modernising our Province for the 21st century, and the Province just felt more fun.
Finally he appointed me Provincial Senior Grand Deacon in 2005 which was a real honour!
