(by editorial board, North Devon Gazette, 18 June 2023)
Every spring and autumn, Freemasons from all around Devon meet to support local organisations who require financial assistance, among which are children’s charities, schools, youth centres and locally based charities including hospices, hospital services and cancer charities.
The money is raised through the ‘WAKE FUND’, a trust conceived by William Alexander Kneel, the Devonshire Provincial Grand Master from 1970 to 1984, the late owner of Kneels laundry and dry cleaners (now Johnsons). Since the idea was initiated, the fund has grown through the continued generosity of Devonshire Freemasons and wise investments. Today it stands at £2.3 million from which the trustees distribute the income generated, currently around £50,000 each year.
Reuben Ayres, Provincial Grand Charity Steward for the Devonshire Freemasons, said: “Since the first disbursement in 2001, over £946,000 has been given by the Devon Freemasons WAKE Fund to charities and other worthy causes throughout Devon, selected by the 127 Masonic lodges within…
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Reuben Ayres, Provincial Grand Charity Steward for the Devonshire Freemasons, said: “Since the first disbursement in 2001, over £946,000 has been given by the Devon Freemasons WAKE Fund to charities and other worthy causes throughout Devon, selected by the 127 Masonic lodges within…
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