Over 110 people assembled at the Masonic Hall in Paignton recently, when the Freemasons of Devon gave £30,000 to forty-three local organisations and charities. These organisations were spread throughout the county and included the Childrens’ Hospice South West, the Exeter Hospice, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the St John’s Ambulance and Exeter Cathedral Third Millenium Campaign.

Also receiving awards were many less known charitable organisations often serving a local community, where gifts of £250 to £1000 make a real difference. These included organisations supporting handicapped children, providing holidays for children with serious illness or disability, and providing children’s theatre facilities. Donations are also made dedicated to supporting the elderly, support for cancer sufferers, pre-school education, community education and recreation, safe playing areas for children, support for victims of crime, and sailing and other activities for deprived children.

The event was organised by Conrad Donaldson, Provincial Charity Steward, and Frank Handscombe, Secretary of the William Alexander Kneel Endowment Fund. This fund, established in memory of a prominent local Freemason, now exceeds £1 million, and proceeds from its investments are disbursed in this way annually. The cheques were presented by the Provincial Grand Master for Devonshire, Robin Osborn.