EVERY Spring and Autumn Freemasons from all around Devon meet to support local organisations and charities who require financial assistance, these include schools, youth centres and locally-based charities including hospices, hospital services and cancer charities.

The money is raised through the “Wake Fund” a trust conceived by Right Worshipful Brother William Alexander Kneel, the Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire from 1970 to 1984, the late owner of Kneel’s laundry and dry cleaners.

Since the idea was initiated the fund has grown through the continued generosity of Devonshire Freemasons and wise investments which today stands at almost £2 million, from which the trustees distribute the income generated, currently £50,000 each year.

Since the first disbursement in 2001 almost £735,000 has been given to more than 790 worthy non-masonic organisations and charities throughout Devon, selected by members of the 133 Masonic lodges based throughout the county.

Earlier this month Right Worshipful Brother Ian Kingsbury JP, Provincial Grand Master for the Freemasons of Devonshire presented cheques to 22 deserving causes, held at The Mount Edgcumbe Masonic Hall, Citadel Road East, Plymouth, where the charity representatives accompanied by a member from their nominating lodge were able to enjoy a superb reception and buffet, have a tour around the lodge building, ask any questions they wished and receive their cheques totalling the magnificent sum of £25,000.

Making the contributions Ian Kingsbury said: “I am delighted that the Freemasons of Devon are able to continue to contribute to these important local causes many of which are totally run by volunteers and hopefully these donations will make a real difference to the lives of many people.”

Among the Crediton area organisations benefiting this year were Devon County Agricultural Association in Exeter and Chulmleigh and Mid Devon Cricket Club.