Newark and Nottinghamshire Freemasons donated thousands to Newark Dementia Carers Group

Newark Freemasons have donated £1,000 to a charity in memory of former member Bernie Bosson.

Bernie was a Mason but also a member of the charity Newark Dementia Carers Group.

Nottinghamshire Freemasons donated an additional sum of £5,000 to support the costs of trips and outings for dementia sufferers and their carers.

The charity’s events coordinator, Elaine Ellison said: “We really appreciate the help and support of both Newark and Nottinghamshire Freemasons, especially the friendship shown to us by Bill Ashley and our dear old friend Bernie who’s sadly missed.”

Newark Dementia Carers Group meets several times each week at Balderton Village Centre to provide support, friendship, entertainment, activities, exercise, snacks and meals, for dementia sufferers and their carers.

The charity attended the Senior Citizens Fair at Balderton Village Centre in which mason Bill Asdhley, worshipful master of Newton Lodge was invited to represent the Masonic charity Teddies for Loving Care Nottinghamshire.

Bill raised £78 on the day from donations and the sale of teddies.

He said, “My mum who is 86 is the sole carer for my Dad who is 91, disabled and touched by dementia.

“She takes him to Newark Dementia Carers Group and she appreciates the company, help, and support of other carers which lets her know she’s not alone in supporting someone with dementia.”

The charity, fully run by volunteers, often struggles to raise funds as its members are at elderly age or suffer from different stages of dementia.

It relies on the support of corporations and charities and grants.