ESSEX Freemasons raised and donated nearly £1.2 million to local and national charities in 2016 according to figures released.

It sets a new record for charitable support, beating the previous top total by more than £150,000.

Some 1,600 separate donations were made to local charities across Essex from the 400 plus Lodges and associated Masonic groups that meet in the County. Further support was also given to a wide and diverse range of national charities and good causes.

Major grants and donations such as £145,000 to the Scout Movement and some £60,000 to local hospices figured high in the list of giving, matched by hundreds of smaller donations to community charities, helping to make a difference across Essex.

Rodney Bass, councillor for Highways and Transportation and Provincial Grand Master for Essex said: “It never ceases to amaze me when I see the generosity of Essex Freemasons.

“It seems that every year, in spite of pressure on finances, Masons continue to donate large sums to good causes.

“I am particularly pleased that we can make a difference in the community where many small charities, which do some wonderful work, are able to continue with the help of our money.”