Northumberland Freemasons and Northumberland Mark Master Masons have announced a donation of more than £150,000 to the Children's Heart Unit Fund (CHUF) at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital.

Richard Henry Holmes Charity donated £50,000 whilst £103,035 came from the Mark Benevolent Fund.

The donation is made in memory of Gordon Craigs, a member of the Northumberland Freemasons, who passed away suddenly in July.

Along with their Hexham property, Northumberland Freemasons buildings can be found in Alnwick, Amble, Ashington, Bedlington, Bellingham, Berwick, Blyth, Byker, Cramlington, Haltwhistle, Mickley, Morpeth, Newbiggin, Jesmond, Newcastle, North Shields, Seahouses, Seaton Delaval, Shiremoor, Throckley, Wallsend, Whitley Bay, and Wylam.

A presentation and dinner were held at Blyth Masonic Hall to commemorate the gift.

CHUF was significant to Mr Craigs and his wife Barbara, as the unit supported their first grandson.

The donation, which will enable the purchase of echocardiogram equipment, recognises Mr Craigs commitment to Freemasonry and acknowledges CHUF’s life-saving work.

The event was attended by representatives from CHUF, including Charlotte Campbell and Alicia Clovis-Mothalib, as well as Ian Clark, deputy president of the Mark Benevolent Fund (MBF), who attended on behalf of the MBF.

Mr Craigs dedicated 45 years to Freemasonry, starting his journey with Lodge Palatine No. 5345 in 1979.

Over the decades, he held several key roles, including the role of lodge secretary and treasurer.

Ian Craigs, head of Northumberland Freemasons, and Raymond Arthur Walton, head of Northumberland Mark Master Masons, expressed deep gratitude for Craig’s legacy, hoping it will inspire others to follow in his footsteps.

Ian Craigs said: "Gordon’s unwavering dedication, his service, and his love for Freemasonry have left an indelible mark on our community."

Raymond Walton added: "We are honoured to make this donation in his memory, knowing it will bring hope and healing to young lives at CHUF."

Charlotte Campbell, director of operations and fundraising at CHUF, said: "When we were approached by the Northumberland Freemasons about them putting in an application in support of Chuf’s Seven Appeal to the Mark Benevolent Fund, we had no idea that it would result in such a hugely generous amount.

"We simply cannot thank you all enough."