A DONATION from the Freemasons will allow a group of Brownies to buy equipment to help youngsters learn life-saving skills.

Worshipful master of the Arthur John Brogden Lodge Chris Bland and members Barry Saunders and Neville Chanin received a unique reception at Grange-over-Sands Methodist Church Hall.

The trio popped into a meeting of the 1st Grange over Sands Brownies to present a donation of £700 on behalf of the lodge.

Unit leader Barb Littlewood, also known as Blue Koala in the Brownies, received the cheque on behalf of the local Girl Guides Grange and Cartmel District group.

“The donation will be used to buy equipment for use by the district,” she explained.

“All of the Brownies and Guides from ages five-26 years as well as the helpers are taught CPR. We will now be able to purchase a CPR manikin to help with the training of this important life skill.

“A projector for shared use is among the other items on the shopping list. We are very grateful to the Freemasons of Grange for their support, it is much appreciated.”

The donation was made from the proceeds of the annual fund raising evening held by Arthur John Brogden lodge. Organised by Mr Saunders, with support from charity steward Mr Chanin, the event this year featured a very well-received Simon and Garfunkel tribute act and an auction.

Mr Saunders added: “The evening has gone from strength to strength. We are committed to supporting local good causes from the funds raised.

“Last year we donated to St Mary’s Hospice and we will continue to target worthy endeavours in the area as the beneficiaries of the money raised at the fund-raiser. When you see the reaction of those who receive the money and know it is to be well spent it renews your energy and inspires you to start on organising the next event.”

As the trio of Masons were quietly making their exit from the hall they were summoned back into the middle of the room.

The Brownies formed a circle around them and expressed their gratitude by according them the highest honour they could – the salutations of “Too-whit, Too Whoo” which was followed by enthusiastic applause and completed with a flourishing bow.