CREDITON Freemasons recently presented two cheques for £300 each to two local charities, The Turning Tides Project and Age ConcernCrediton and District.
Crediton Freemasons membership officer, W Bro Phillip Bourne presented the first cheque to Roger Hill, manager of The Turning Tides Project in Crediton which is based at Crediton Railway Station tea rooms.
Roger said: “We offer equal access to music, art and life for those with learning disabilities or autism labels.
“The environment we create encourages society to be more inclusive and gives people a voice.
“We are very grateful for the £300 and we will put it towards new equipment which will benefit our 150 members.”
Unity Mark Lodge Worshipful Master and Almoner,David White presented the second cheque for £300 to Brian Shillingford co-ordinator of the Memory Cafe at Age Concern at the Lady Mills Centre in Crediton.
Brian said: “Singing helps with memory loss and the £300 will go towards music for the group which meets at the centre every Tuesday.”
The popular group is open to anyone living with dementia together with their carer. Activities include chair exercises, a light-hearted quiz, some singing and a cup of tea along with time to chat.
Crediton Unity Lodge secretary and charity steward, Peter Coleman explained: “During the year donations are made to our fund by our members either directly, or from draws and special events during the year.
“All the money generated within Unity Lodge, our Freemasons Lodge at Crediton goes to local organisations who ask us for support. No expenses are deducted by the Lodge.
“This year we have been proud to award a total of £3,300, divided between Bow School Swimming Pool Appeal, Devon Racqueteers (Wheelchair badminton), Crediton Memory Café (Age Concern), Dartmoor Rescue, Crediton Playscheme, Sandford Active Lifestyles, RNIB, Hospiscare and The Turning Tides Project.
Peter added: “I would like to thank the members of our Lodge for their contributions, and those who are giving up their time to help the community by organising the above activities.”
Nora Parminter