23rd February 2012

DORCHESTER: Masons raise £1,000 for military charity

By Trevor Bevins

Masons in Dorchester have raised £1,000 for the armed services Care for Causalities appeal.

The group presented a cheque for the amount at the Keep Military Museum.

During his year as Master of the Dorchester based Durnovarian Lodge, Malcolm Webb chose to support “Care for Casualties” as one of his many charitable targets during his year in office. He was prompted to support this charity given its close historical connections with Dorset and “the Keep” and following a conversation with an Army Medic neighbour of his who had recently returned from a tour in Afghanistan.

Members of the Durnovarian Lodge raised the sum of £1,000 from various collections, raffles and social events during Malcolm’s year as Master.

This was formerly handed over to Lt Col (rtd.) Geoff Nicholls, the Secretary of “Care for Casualties” who travelled from Exeter to receive the cheque and personally thank Malcolm and members of the Lodge.

Since its formation in 2007, after the amalgamation of the Dorset and Devonshire Regiment (formerly “The Dorsets”) with other Infantry regiments, The Rifles have seen almost continuous action in Iraq & Afghanistan. This commitment has come at a cost.

Fifty nine Riflemen were killed in action and more than 300 have suffered serious injuries, including 29 who have lost limbs. Most have been caused by IEDs which cause complex multiple trauma. Some injuries are not yet obvious; evidence shows that psychological problems manifest themselves sometimes years after the end of service and the need for help will continue for many years to come.

“Care for Casualties” is an appeal that gives the severely wounded, their families and the families of fallen Riflemen the support, the inspiration and the means to rebuild their lives and make the best of their futures.

“Having a far wider charitable ‘brief’ than other well-known charities, such as “Help for Heroes”.

“Care for Casualties” is able to provide funding for personal rehabilitation, holidays, specialised equipment in the home and the like, not only supporting severely injured or fallen servicemen but also their families.

PICTURE: Members of the Durnovarian Lodge, including Master Malcolm Webb, present their £1,000 cheque to Care for Casualties secretary Lt Col (rtd.) Geoff Nicholls

DORCHESTER: Masons raise £1,000 for military charity

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