CHARITIES across Gwent received a share of more than £120,000 from the Monmouthshire Freemasons.

As part of celebrations to mark the 300th anniversary of the formation of the first Grand Lodge, the Monmouthshire Freemasons donated an eye-watering £120,000 to various charities last week.

The grant giving ceremony took place at the Newport Masonic Hall in Lower Dock Street, Newport on Friday.

As the Argus previously reported, back in June this year charities - such as Sparkle Appeal, The Newport and Gwent Samaritans and Cyfannol Women’s Aid - would be awarded a share of £50,000.

And in the ceremony last week, The Newport and Gwent Samaritans received £6,000 at the ceremony and the Hospice of the Valleys received £1,000.

Newport Women’s Aid also received £3,000.

Karen Ling, accommodation team leader said: “Newport Women’s Aid will be using this kind donation to update our digital approach to ensure we are reflective and responsive to the needs of victims.

“So those affected by domestic abuse know where to go to for support and the resources available to ensure their safety and wellbeing and provide them with options.

“We want to make sure victims and their family feel in control of their future and that support is there for them.”

Speaking about the ceremony, provincial grandmaster Richard Davies, said he was delighted to have all the groups turn up to receive their cheques.

Mr Davies said: “We were proud and delighted to host so many representatives from our local communities in order to assist the various organisations and charities, as well as help those less fortunate than ourselves.

“This is very much the ethos of Freemasonry.”