MORE than £175,000 was donated in 2020 by generous Somerset Freemasons to charities and good causes whose fund-raising ability was hit by the Covid emergency.

Freemasons in Taunton donated more than £12,000, including the foodbank and meal production facilities (more than £1,800); Somerset Unit for Radiotherapy Equipment (£800); Richard Huish College Tigers community sports programme (£445); St Margaret’s Hospice (£500); and Taunton Women’s Refuge (£1,850).

Sue Weightman, Taunton Foodbank manager, said “We’re always blown away by the amount of support and generosity local people show in supporting our work – and during 2020, our vital work has only been possible because of that incredible support.”

Gary Carter, of Huish Tigers, said: “Huish Tigers’ ethos is to provide a sporting environment where young people can feel safe and can learn and excel.

"The support we received will enable us to let even more youngsters experience this.”

Graham Puddy, Somerset Freemasons charity steward, said: “The generosity of Freemasons throughout Somerset is an immense source of pride for us all.

"As well as substantial donations, there has been a significant amount of time spent in our local communities providing practical support."

Freemasonry is one of the largest donors to charity in the UK, giving more than £7.8illion last year.

Somerset Freemasons have donated well over £1.4m in the last 15 years to more than 750 charities and good causes, covering local, national and international relief.

There are 3,285 Freemasons in Somerset in 89 lodges in 26 towns.