The Freemasons Aycliffe Lodge has very kindly presented a cheque to Rotary President Gary Blenkinsopp as a donation to the War Memorial Appeal to repair and upgrade the vandalised lighting. Gary and Rtn. Tony Jackson met with Aycliffe Lodge Charity Steward Rob Davison and Lodge Guard Graeme Parker at Newton Press offices for the handing over of the funds to the value of £250.
Rob remarked, “Every Remembrance Day, Freemasons lay poppy wreaths at our War Memorials around the country paying tribute to the thousands of their members who were persecuted by the Nazi regime and sent to death camps during the 1930s and 1940s. We are extremely supportive of this cause and wished to contribute.”
Rob went on to say that the money had been raised during a recent social night in Ferryhill Lodge with entertainment by Georgio, a very popular local act. With a photo of the late Syd Howarth MBE looking down in the background, Gary received the donation saying “the money will be right away directed to replacing the lighting and, as promised, any surplus will be donated to the Royal British Legion. Please convey our grateful thanks to your fellow Lodge members.”
Photo (left to right): Graeme, Rob, Gary and Tony.