MORE than £4,500 was raised last year for charities by members of the Watchet-based Quantock Masonic Lodge, guests were told at a recent successful charity dinner hosted by worshipful master John Sully.

The evening centred on raising funds for his chosen charity, the League of Friends of the Williton and District Community Hospital.

It also provided the opportunity for the immediate past master Alan Sandwell to present a cheque for £2,100 to the charity Williton and Surrounding Area Parkinson’s Support Group (WASPs), which was raised by the lodge during his year in office.

This was part of £4,500 raised collectively by the brethren of Quantock Lodge and Mr Sandwell throughout his year in the chair.

The cheque was received by Jane Cooper and Linda Bishop, secretary and founder of WASPS, who spoke about the impact the donation will have on the work of the charity.

They explained how the funds will help the group to continue providing support, exercise sessions, and companionship for people living with Parkinson’s across West Somerset, an especially meaningful service in a rural area where community‑led support is vital.

A lodge spokesperson said: “The evening embodied the values Freemasonry is known for - charity, fellowship, and service to others.

“It also shone a light on the positive role Quantock Lodge continues to play in Watchet and the surrounding area, supporting local causes and strengthening the community it has served for generations.

“All the money raised at the dinner will be added to the lodge’s wider charitable efforts throughout the worshipful master’s year.

“At the end of John Sully’s term in office, the full total raised will be presented to his chosen charity, the League of Friends of the Williton and District Community Hospital, which the lodge hopes will go some way to helping what is a remarkable local charity.”