FREEMASONS this week showed their support for the Gazette’s Ease The Pain appeal by handing over £750 to help pay for a new scanner at Malvern Community Hospital.

The money was handed over to Maureen Williams of the hospital’s friends during an open day at the historic Masonic Hall in the town centre.

The Royds Lodge donated £500 and the Malvern Hills Lodge gave £250. Both lodges meet at the hall on Belle Vue Terrace.

The appeal, launched earlier this year, aims to raise £60,000 to buy the scanner for the hospital’s pain clinic.

The scanner is used to help staff make very precise injections of painkilling drugs.

Mrs Williams said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Masons have made these donations.

“Having a scanner at our own hospital will mean that local people won’t have to travel far afield to get absolutely vital pain treatments.”

This week, the total raised by the appeal stands at £36,400.

During the open day, held as part of Malvern Civic Week, the Malvern Hills Lodge also gave £250 to Malvern Sea Cadets, £250 to Mercia Inshore Rescue, and £250 to Malvern Scouts Association, while the Royds Lodge gave £500 Penny Ha’Penny Horse and Pony Rescue.

MP Harriett Baldwin attended to make some of the presentations.

The next fund-raising event for the appeal is a shopping experience at Malvern Community Hospital on Saturday, August 17.

Are you organising anything for the appeal? Call Robert Hale on 01905 742283 or e-mail rh@malverngazette.co.uk.