Several local Community Groups and Charities were recipients of the first ever South Molton Community Support Awards this week, in a ceremony held at Freemasons’ Hall in South Molton, Devon on Wednesday 18th March 2026.
Organised by members of South Molton’s three masonic Lodges, these monetary awards are worth £500 each and recognise the work done by Charities and local Community Groups in making lives better for groups and individuals in the North Devon Community. Five organisations were represented and each gave a short talk on their work and on the effect that these awards would have on future plans and projects.
Recipients were…
South West Blood Bikes: A group of unpaid volunteer Motorcyclists who deliver vital supplies of Blood, Breast Milk, Tissue Samples and Drugs in support of the NHS across the county. The Blood Bikes’ award was received by Malcolm Huxtable their local organiser.
Brayford Community Playground: A group raising money for the reopening of the Children’s Playground in the village of Brayford which was closed in April 2025 following a safety inspection. Suzie Topping explained the importance of safe play spaces for children.
1st Chulmleigh Girl Guides: Mandy Blacker has been involved in Guiding since she was a Brownie herself. Having returned to Chulmleigh some years ago, she is now the organiser of one of the most successful Girl Guide branches in the county who are raising money to replace their 40 year old tents.
The Masonic Fishing Charity: A group of local Fishermen who take disadvantaged children, their parents and supporters on Fishing days out at venues across Devon. Local Secretary Mike Latham gave a moving account of the ways in which disadvantaged youngsters responded to fun days out in the open air.
Mid Devon Messenger: This is a talking Newspaper for the visually impaired based in Tiverton, which brings News, and Local Information to people who are no longer able to read due to blindness or sight impairment. Helen McIntosh gave a brief history of the Charity from its early beginnings to the vitally important service it now provides.
Following the Awards Ceremony, the recipients and their hosts retired to the Masonic Hall’s Dining Room for a few celebratory drinks and a light supper.
Dr. Peter Kyle, the Administrator of the South Molton Masonic Charity Association said…
We are delighted to support and to celebrate the vital and frankly inspiring work being carried out in our local communities by these wonderful volunteers. Their passion and dedication is clear to see, and their willingness to dedicate their time and energy to helping others is truly humbling. These awards will now made twice a year. We invite other groups and individuals to apply for future awards by visiting our website at https://moltonmasons.org.uk/