FREEMASONS have given a mental health charity £250,000 to help support its services during lockdown.

Mind says it is experiencing a surge in demand for its services during lockdown but the charity’s income has plummeted because of the closure of its 160 charity shops across England and Wales and the cancellation of fundraising events, including the London Marathon.

The grant will support a range of local and national services to reach as many people in need as possible during the outbreak.

Kathleen Miles, director of fundraising at Mind, said: “We’re so grateful to the Freemasons.

“We’re facing huge demand for our advice and information about staying well and looking after your mental health.”

David Innes, chief executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, said: “I’m very pleased that Freemasons are able to support their hugely important work.”