Each year the Master of the Old Saint Edward’s Lodge selects his personal charity.For the year 2001/2 W.Bro. Christopher Norton-Welsh P.G.J.W. (Austria), P.Pr.G.S.D.,L.G.R. chose Sight Savers International to benefit from his Master’s List.

In keeping with the spirit of 'FreeMasonry in the Community' his successor with the full agreement of the members of the Lodge decided that a personal presentation of the cheque should be as open as possible. Accordingly at the October meeting, after which the Lodge has its Ladies Dinner, the Lodge called a break in the proceedings to invite all the wives, girlfriends, partners, and other non masonic guests into the temple to see the presentation to the representative of Sight Savers.

W.Bro. Eric Balmer the Lodge Charity Steward welcomed all into the body of the Lodge. He gave a brief introduction illustrating the sums of money raised for charity by Masons and examples of those organisations throughout the community, many of which have no masonic connections, who have benefited in the past.

Tonight however, he was delighted to welcome Simon Wakeling from Sight savers International and present a cheque for £1000, much of would qualify to be increased under the Gift Aid scheme.

In reply Simon outlined the work of Sight Savers in which many eye surgeons and specialists gave freely of their time to help. A cataract operation costs £3, thus tonight’s donation would save some 300 people and more from blindness and help them to work or look after their families. On behalf of all those who would benefit, Simon gave heartfelt thanks, every penny helped.

Judging from the comments at the Ladies Dinner there is no doubt that the Lodge will present next years Master’s List next October in like style, hopefully Sister Frances from Douglas House will be able to join us.