A fantastic Halloween Night was held by Acklam Lodge in Middlesbrough, when not only did they enjoy some spooky Halloween atmosphere, but a Murder Mystery too!

On the evening of 31 October 2026, W.M. Ben Dorée from Acklam Lodge, hosted a highly successful Halloween Murder Mystery Night at the Masonic Hall on Roman Road in Middlesbrough. The event was extremely well attended, with many dressed in Halloween costumes, as though they were attending a Halloween Party. However things took an unexpected turn when the fictitious Master of the fictitious Roman Road Lodge, was murdered that evening!

W.M. Dorée, dressed as The Joker, narrated the audience through the initial turn of events, and then introduced the suspects to the captivated audience one-by-one, who all, as it turned out, had good reason to want the fictitious W.M. gone! The main part of the evening revolved around a live, interactive whodunnit performance. The audience was introduced to a cast of suspicious characters, including both members of the Lodge and even the D.J. for the evening, each harbouring dark secrets and motivations. prompting the audience to take on the roles of amateur sleuths. The audience was given clues, evidence sheets, and even the opportunity to cross-examine the suspects. Everyone took part very enthusiastically, filling the room with lively debate, laughter, and competing theories as to who the culprit was.

After much deliberation, the culprit and their motive was revealed, and prizes awarded to those who guessed whodunit. Special mention here must go to Bros Colin Slater and Martin Laws, (Acklam Lodge), Jayne Cook, (Chef, Masonic Hall) Jean Angus (Zetland Ladies’ Club) Martin Youngman (D.J.) and Peter Kelley (family friend) who brilliantly acted their roles as murder suspects.

Prizes were also awarded for some Halloween quizzes that the audience had taken part in. Following a very successful raffle, which helped to raise money for W.M. Dorée’s charities, music continued and the dance floor filled very quickly!

This extremely successful and innovative event, written by Ben’s wife Sally, raised morale and engagement within the Lodge and the broader Middlesbrough community. Due to the success of this event It has been highly recommended that perhaps another Murder Mystery takes place later in the Acklam Lodge calendar. Look out for the upcoming sequel!

A selection of images from the night. Look out for Yorkshire Mason Issue 45 with more pictures.