A RECENT donation of a total of £14,000 to seven hospices in Hampshire and IOW awarded by The Freemasons' Grand Charity, has been greatly welcomed at the end of a difficult financial year. This donation is in addition to funds already granted by Masons in the local area.

Throughout 2009 The Freemasons' Grand Charity has continued its extensive support for hospices across England and Wales, totalling £500,000. All donations are raised by Freemasons and their families and aim to assist hospices in their vital role in helping those affected by terminal or life limiting illness.

"Over the last 25 years The Freemasons' Grand Charity has awarded over £8 million to hospice services throughout England and Wales. We recognise the wonderful services that hospices in Hampshire and IOW provide in the community, and we are delighted to demonstrate our support for these services in this way" stated Brian Bellinger, the Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire & IOW Freemasonry.

The Hospices which benefited from this donation included Countess of Brecknock House I Andover.