80 Freemasons, their family and friends gathered at Blackpool Masonic Hall for the inaugural Blackpool Group Charity Night, and all attending were eager to help just one of the many local charities that the Freemasons of Blackpool support.
Alison Gilmore of Blackpool Young Carers gave a heartfelt and educated insight into their work locally. The charity provides specialist support, respite and outings for unpaid carers from the age of five years and their families. By helping them to create friendships, feel less isolated, strengthen their resilience and make happy memories, as they aim to make a better life for the carers. To learn more about Blackpool Young Carers, 
Popular local band Tripwire, which contains two Blackpool Freemasons, Bob Coughtrey of Emblem Lodge No 6727 on the drums and our very own group chairman Steve Jelly on bass guitar, gave their time and talent for free to support the event. Their energetic performances kept everyone entertained and the dance floor packed all night. A hotpot supper was provided by Shaun and his team at Blackpool Masonic Catering to keep the energy levels up and everyone had a rocking good night.
The final total from ticket sales, raffle and additional donations generated the magnificent sum of £1,000 on the night for this local and hardworking charity. Everyone involved, including the band, the organisers and the attendees, should be extremely proud of their efforts.
After the event, Terry Hodkinson from the Blackpool Carers Centre attended Rock Hard Studios to meet the band at one of their rehearsals and to receive a cheque, presented by Blackpool Group Chairman Steve Jelly with Bob, Steve and Will from the band and the Blackpool Group Charity Steward Neil Higgins with Fylde Regional Charity Steward Bob Marsden.
A fantastic result from a superb evening, once again showing the generosity that Blackpool Freemasons have for their community.
