Hexham Juniors Rowing Club has received £7,500 in donations from Northumberland Freemasons.

The donations, which include an initial £3,000, £500 from Hextoldsham Lodge, and additional contributions of £2,000 each to young athletes Jacob Lloyd and Emma Nicholson, are aimed at supporting the club's young talent and promoting community involvement.

The club provides opportunities for young athletes aged 12 to 18 to 'build confidence, learn teamwork, and refine their skills.'

The club's success at events like the National Schools Regatta, where the J16 Coxless Quad team recently won a silver medal, reflects the hard work put in by its athletes and coaches.

The Freemasons' contributions come at a 'pivotal time', as Hexham Juniors faces the rising costs of competitive rowing.

The donations will help ease the financial burden on athletes and coaches, who often cover their own travel, accommodation, and equipment expenses.

Jacob Lloyd, a member of Hexham Juniors, has been offered a place in the British Rowing Diploma in Sporting Excellence programme, which he will pursue alongside his A-Level studies.

The £2,000 donation from Northumberland Freemasons will help Jacob meet the costs associated with the programme, including a boat, equipment, and travel.

Emma Nicholson, another member of Hexham Juniors, has also received £2,000 to support her rowing journey.

This funding will cover essential costs, allowing Emma to continue representing the club in both local and national competitions.

Head of Northumberland Freemasons, Ian Craigs, said: "We look forward to seeing both Jacob and Emma thrive as they work toward their dreams, and we are honoured to play a role in their journeys.

"Significantly, the British Rowing Diploma in Sporting Excellence programme comprises only 20 male and 20 female athletes and to have two from Hexham is a wonderful achievement.

"The Freemasons remain dedicated to supporting local youth and empowering them to represent our community with pride and resilience."

The Provincial Grand Lodge of Northumberland, through the Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund, donates approximately £160,000 each year to local charities and good causes, supporting a range of initiatives from food banks to youth development projects throughout Northumberland, Newcastle, and North Tyneside.