THE Freemasons of Malvern are preparing to open their doors to the public.

On Saturday, September 5, the Masonic Hall on Belle Vue Terrace will be open for everyone to have a look and find out about the history of Masonry in Malvern.

The hall, originally the snooker room of the former Belle Vue Hotel, is now the meeting place for five Malvern lodges.

Anthony Duke, the worshipful master of Malvern Hills Lodge, said: "Masonic lodge meetings have been held in Malvern for more than 140 years, and at the present hall for the past 98 years.

"We are very fortunate to have such an historic and architecturally fascinating place to meet, and it is a pleasure to open the doors to the public for them to see the interior of the building and provide information on Freemasonry."

Masons will be on hand to guide people round the building and answer questions. They will also be able to provide help for people wanting to find out if their ancestors were Masons, as their records go back more than 200 years.

The hall is open between 10am and 5pm. Admission is free.