Dozens of local charities have shared nearly £100,000 in funding from Bournemouth Freemasons.
The donations were presented during an annual event where lodges come together to support community organisations, with around 30 charities receiving funding and explaining their work supporting people across Bournemouth and nearby areas.
A total of £98,220.78 was distributed, with the Beach Appeal at Bournemouth Hospital receiving more than £12,000, alongside support for groups including Elsie’s Rose, Macmillan Caring Locally, Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide and the CJD Support Network.
The Town Mayor, Councillor Jackie Edwards, attended the event and received a cheque for her chosen charity, the Bournemouth Natural Sciences Society, during the gathering held at the Masonic centre in Knole Road.
Chris Lockwood, who leads Freemasons in Bournemouth and the New Forest, said it was “humbling to listen” to the work being done locally, adding it is a “privilege to support them” through both fundraising and giving time.
He said the lodges raise money from their own members and plan to “continue to support them as best we can”.
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