FREEMASONS from Cornish lodges have hit a major milestone in their fundraising for Cornwall Air Ambulance, having raised enough to fund over 250 hours of fuel for the lifesaving charity.

The latest donation - this year totalling £4,000 - means The Freemasons of Cornwall have now raised over £50,000 for the Cornish rescue charity since 2007.

The annual donation is made by The Freemason’s Grand Charity, which supports air ambulance services across the UK and has donated more than £1.5 million to 22 rescue services since 2007.

Representatives from The Freemasons of Cornwall visited the charity’s Newquay airbase for a tour to meet the aircrew and see the helicopter.

Provincial grand master Peter George said: “The Freemasons of Cornwall are proud and delighted to once again support the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust.

“This is the longest established air ambulance service in the country and plays a vital role within our rural and often difficult to reach communities.

“Helping to support local charities and good causes is very important for the Freemasons of Cornwall, which these donations go to prove.

“We look forward to continuing our support for Cornwall Air Ambulance in the future.”

Air ambulances are the busiest voluntary emergency services in the UK.

Cornwall Air Ambulance flies around 800 rescue missions every year and receives no government funding, so relies on public donations to stay in the air.

Fundraising manager Susie Smith said: “The Freemasons of Cornwall are truly dedicated supporters of Cornwall Air Ambulance, and we want to thank them for another incredibly generous donation.

“Ongoing support such as this really does make a great difference to the local community in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”