THE Masonic Province of Cornwall held its Charities Presentation Day at the masonic hall in Newquay on Sunday, May 14.

The event was attended by over 160 people including Freemasons and their guests together with representatives of 43 local and national charities.

Granville Lodge No 3405, which meets in Bude, was represented by Peter Reeve the charity steward, and John Weller the treasurer who were accompanied by their wives.

The Provincial Grand Master of Cornwall, Stephen Pearn welcomed everyone and explained that one of the objectives of the Cornwall Masonic Benevolent Fund is to distribute charitable grants within and outside the province of Cornwall to non-masonic causes including hospices.

Over £45,000 was distributed on the day to charities nominated by lodges throughout Cornwall with Granville Lodge having great pleasure in supporting Cancer Research UK Bude and Stratton Branch.

The chairman, Ray Shaddick is a member of Granville Lodge but was unavailable to attend the event so Wendy Dugdale, the vice-chairman, together with Michael Stockman represented the Bude and Stratton committee.

They were presented with their cheque by the Provincial Grand Master.

During a short break in proceedings the assembled company was entertained by two members of Cornwall Youth Brass Band.

A spokesman said: “The music was of an extremely high standard and loud applause accompanied the presentation of a cheque for the band.”

The day concluded with guests and lodge members enjoying a buffet and having an opportunity to see a display explaining various charities and read about the charitable achievements of Cornish freemasons over the last 12 months.

The new national masonic charity is called The Masonic Charitable Foundation. For details call 01872 276191 or visit www.pglcornwall.org.uk

For information about Granville Lodge and its charitable call the provincial office on 01872 276191.

A large number of charities have been supported by Granville lodge throughout the last 12 months at a local and national level.