AS PART of an annual programme of charitable giving Devonshire Freemasons have again distributed more than £20,000 to 25 local charities and worthy causes.

The donations were presented by the Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire, the Right Worshipful Brother Ian Kingsbury, at Exmouth Masonic Hall.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) was included in this distribution and received a donation of £500 to assist with the running costs of the Devon branch of SOBS, a self-help group based in Exeter and Crediton.

Colin Appleton, from Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) said: "The money will go towards IT to assist with organising the day-to-day running of the group, and is very much appreciated."

Whilst the individual sums may seem modest each donation is meaningful and appreciated by the charity or local organisation concerned.

The Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother Ian Kingsbury commented: "I am delighted that the Freemasons in Devon are able to contribute to local causes.

"Many of these organisations are 'run on a shoestring' by volunteers and these donations provide real benefit and are much appreciated".

Most of the organisations have been nominated by a local Masonic Lodge, usually where a member has a connection with the organisation.

In this case the sponsoring Lodge was The Unity Lodge which meets in Crediton.

The donations come from the William Alexander Kneel Endowment (WAKE) Fund which is currently worth approximately £1.5 million.

It is a charitable fund which has been accumulated by legacies and donations from Devonshire Freemasons and their families.

Each year approximately £40,000 is distributed amongst local charities and organisations in Devon.

The programme began in 2001 and since that date more than £450,000 has been donated to nearly 450 beneficiaries.