MEMBERS of Cross Keys Community Fund celebrated their impressive achievement at an event in Thurrock on Saturday.

The Cross Keys Community Fund is the charity wing of the Cross Keys Masonic Lodge and over the last 18 months has raised close to £20,000 for Essex-based charities and community projects.

Over 120 members and guests celebrated the achievement with a lavish three course meal and entertainment at Ye Old Plough House in Bulphan.

Freemasonry is a centuries old fraternal organisation that operates a network of local groups, known as lodges. Members regularly meet to conduct rituals and engage in charitable work.

In a speech on the night, Cross Keys Community Fund chair, Dave Barton, expressed his hope that the success would encourage others to look out for their community.

He said: “We focus on directly assisting the smaller local initiatives that are often overlooked. Together, we are building a stronger community and creating lasting change.

“By embodying the Masonic values of ‘Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service,’ we are encouraging other Masonic Centres across the UK to take similar action. Which in turn, not only enhances the community perception of Freemasonry, but also supports those local causes that truly need it the most”.

The Cross Keys Community Fund is currently supporting over 50 schools, care homes, hospitals, charities and community projects across Essex.