Research at the University of Southampton into new treatments for cancer has been given a boost thanks to a donation from the Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Royal Arch Freemasons.
The donation of £42,000 was made to the Cancer Immunology Fund which supports research at the Centre for Cancer Immunology, the UK’s first centre dedicated to cancer immunology research.
The funds were officially presented at the Royal Arch Province’s Annual Meeting, which was attended by 300 people.
Katherine de Retuerto received the donation on behalf of the University and gave a presentation explaining the work taking place at the Centre.
She said: “The University of Southampton has been the grateful recipient of immense generosity from the Freemasons over the years, and we really do appreciate their wonderful support. We will use 100% of the donations directly to develop better, kinder, more effective cancer treatments to enable people to live longer and live better.”
The funds were raised through the Royal Arch Freemasons Annual Charity Appeal, with one member Gerry Underwood, giving a substantial sum, which helped the fundraising efforts get underway.
Commenting on the funds raised, their Head, Steve Allum, said: “Our members support towards this vital work will have a significant impact.”
Image: Katherine de Retuerto, Associate Director of Development at Southampton University’s Centre for Cancer Immunology pictured with Royal Arch Freemasons (l-r) David Taylor, Steve Allum, Jonathan Stainton-Ellis, Chris Davis, Dave Wood and Jon Whitaker.