Freemasons donate £1,387 to Bovey Tracey Youth Groups

"When the country went in to ‘lock-down’ early in 2021, schools recognised they needed to structure lessons for online learning but there was a huge dilemma in that many pupils did not have a suitable online capability – they did not have access to computers or iPads at home.  A national appeal was made on behalf of schools for donations of appropriate equipment.

The Freemasons of Bovey Tracey Lodge rose to the challenge, donating funds £1,137 which enabled Bovey Primary School to buy three laptops; Mrs Gant, the Computing Lead, said hopefully more were to follow from the wider community for which they were so grateful.  Because of the continuing issues caused by the virus, it has only just been possible to have this formal ‘presentation’.   In the picture are L-R: Mrs Gant with two pupils clutching both cheque and laptops and John McDowell, Master of the Lodge.  Headteacher, Mrs Prywata is keeping a watchful eye at the back."

The second youth group to benefit with a donation from the Freemasons of £250, were the Colts section of Bovey Cricket Club at their end of season awards evening.  Mark Pitman, the Colts Manager, receiving the cheque from John McDowell said the Colts membership increased to 180 this year (124 boys and 56 girls) against just 72 two years ago.  Much more equipment was required and it was only through donations like this that they were able to welcome extra youngsters who play, mainly, in the South Devon Cricket League.  Both boys and the girls had a successful season and nearly 300 children attended Cricket Camps."