The Freemasons have announced that their ’Masons in the Park’ event will become an annual affair.

It follows the successful inaugural event held by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Freemasons this year.

The open to all, free to enter event held in Mooragh Park, Ramsey, last month, attracted a mixture of around 200 Masons and members of the general public.

Peter Quinn, chairman of the organising committee, said:’Mooragh Park was a superb venue for the event’ and praised the Ramsey Commissioners for their cooperation and assistance.

He added: ’The weather was great, the park [was] stunning, we displayed a few vintage cars, [had] a little light refreshment and live music in a happy and relaxed atmosphere.’

Entertainment was provided by country and western singer ’Johnny’ Quinn - Peter’s brother who had travelled especially to the island to perform and together with Peter provided live entertainment for the whole of the afternoon.

The event raised money for two schemes.

Firstly, the Teddy Loving Care scheme (TLC), which supplies teddy bears free to hospitals and other health centres around the island for medical practicitioners to give to children for comfort and support.

Secondly, the charity Forget Me Not, which is supports people with dementia.

After match funding by the Masonic Charitable Foundation, each charity will receive a cheque for £1,200.

Next year’s event is in the planning stage and has already attracted sponsors.

It is provisionally booked for August 7, 2022, and organisers hope it will be bigger, better and more extravagant than this year’s.