Devonshire Freemasons in South Molton have been celebrating the extraordinary work of local charities and community groups after hosting the first South Molton Community Support Awards at Freemasons’ Hall on Wednesday 18th March 2026. The event was organised by the town’s three Masonic lodges and brought together volunteers and community representatives whose work is improving lives across North Devon.
While each of the five organisations received a grant of £500, the evening was about much more than financial support. At its heart, it was a chance to recognise the people behind these groups and to shine a light on the practical, often unseen difference they make in their communities every day. That wider spirit of Community Engagement is at the centre of what Devonshire Freemasons seek to do: not simply to donate, but to support local people, celebrate service, and help good work go further.
The awards were presented to a diverse group of organisation, each with its own story to tell. South West Blood Bikes were recognised for the work of its unpaid volunteer motorcyclists, who deliver blood, breast milk, tissue samples, and medicines in support of the NHS across Devon. Brayford Community Playground received support for its efforts to reopen the village playground after its closure following a safety inspection in April 2025. 1st Chulmleigh Girl Guides was acknowledged for its fundraising campaign to replace tents that have served local girls for around 40 years. The Masonic Fishing Charity was recognised for the memorable fishing days it provides for disadvantaged children and their families across Devon, while Mid Devon Messenger was celebrated for its talking newspaper service for people living with blindness or sight impairment.
A particularly valuable part of the evening was hearing directly from those involved. Each organisation spoke about its work and the impact the funding will have on future plans and projects, giving everyone present a clearer sense not just of need, but of the energy, dedication and compassion already at work in local communities. That is exactly the kind of impact Devonshire Freemasons want to celebrate more visibly. The volunteers, organisers, and supporters whose commitment makes life better for others.
Dr Peter Kyle, Administrator of the South Molton Masonic Charity Association, captured the spirit of the evening when he praised the “vital and frankly inspiring work” being carried out by local volunteers and described their passions and dedication as “truly humbling”.
The South Molton Community Support Awards will now be held twice a year, creating further opportunities to recognise local people and organisations whose work strengthens communities. For Devonshire Freemasons, that is the real story. Freemasonry working alongside others, supporting local causes, and celebrating the positive difference that collective community action can make.
For more information on Freemasonry in South Molton see https://moltonmasons.org.uk
For more information on Girl Guides in Devon see: https://devonguides.org.uk/
For more information on South West Blood Bikes see: https://swbb.charity/
For more information on Mid Devon Messenger see https://middevonmessenger.org.uk/
For more information on the Masonic Fishing Charity see https://mtsfc.org.uk/
