Freemasons raised an amazing £4,000 for Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter by staging a Valentine’s Masquerade Ball at the Grand Hotel, Gosforth Park.
The event, organised by The Gavel Lodge No. 8928, continued a long-standing relationship with the Dog & Cat Shelter. The Lodge has previously supported the charity with events, and The Northumberland Freemasons also donated funds to build animal cages in its van last year, which is used for vet visits and for collecting supermarket donations.
It currently costs more than £1.25 million to keep the shelter’s doors open; a sum that weighs heavily without statutory government funding, so the organisation is reliant on community support. “The support of the Freemasons has been a lifeline to us,” said Chris Bray, chief executive of the Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter. “To raise £4,000 is a fantastic achievement and will go a long way to making a difference,” He added: “We’re grateful for the partnership with The Gavel Lodge and for everyone who contributed to making the Valentine’s Masquerade Ball a success. The funds raised are essential for our ongoing efforts to provide care and shelter for animals in need.”
Event organiser, Collin Bowman, who is The Gavel Lodge Worshipful Master, emphasised the importance of assisting animal welfare: “Supporting the community and giving back, especially to animals who are often our closest companions, is crucial. We are pleased with the event’s success and the difference it will make in the lives of many animals. This shows the impact of community efforts towards a common goal.”
The event featured a red-carpet arrival, drinks reception, four-course meal and live entertainment, with fundraising including a pre-event raffle, golden ticket cash box, live auction, and a shelter merchandise and raffle stall.
