LEDBURY Freemasons chose the tercentenary celebrations of the Grand Lodge to create a special awards day to present funds to10 local charities.

The Freemasons in Ledbury opened its doors to members of the public by providing a fascinating insight into the history of Freemasonry with all its symbolism, regalia and of course debunking the myths and fiction.

Freemasonry has kept itself to itself for many years and this resulted in unease, mistrust and suspicion with people imagining dubious reasons as to why the organisation was secret.

As part of its 300th anniversary celebrations, Grand Lodge is encouraging all Lodges to 'come out' again, and open its doors to the world.

Freemasons like to refer to ancient times, especially the building of Solomon's Temple, but their modern origins trace back to the Middle Ages, when itinerant free-men with stonemasons' skills travelled the country to construct the next great edifice, usually a castle or cathedral.

Their specialist skills in geometry and construction enabled them to design and build in heavy stone that didn't fall down at a time when most people still lived in simple wattle and daub houses; so, ironically Mason's skills were seen by many as akin to witchcraft, and there was a real danger that they would be attacked and killed.

As a result, stonemasons usually 'lodged' together for mutual protection and support.

Roger Parker who organised the day said, "It was very gratifying to know that people found the presentation so interesting giving them a whole new perspective on the society changing their long held views that Freemasonry was like something out of a Dan Brown novel". Ledbury Mayor Elaine Fieldhouse remarked that she was "amazed to hear about the huge sums of money given to charity annually".

Deputy Provincial Grand Master Mike Roff, made presentations to representatives from Marie Curie; Hereford Haven; Salters Hill; Rugby Club; Maritime Cadets; Evergreens; Wye Valley; Robocap (prostate cancer); John Masefield High School, and the Mayor's charity and all the recipients of awards said were delighted to have been selected.

Many of the people who attended said they enjoyed the presentations and found it very interesting to learn that Freemasonry is in fact an honourable society that through it's ritual sets out to 'make a good person better' and to support local charities."

After lunch, Masons in full regalia processed through Ledbury High Street to the Burgage Hall where a special commemoration service was held to conclude this exciting and revealing day.