Big-hearted Freemasons from Otley have raised £465 for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

The money was raised by Leodiensis Lodge of Freemasons, which meets at Westbourne House, Otley.

They enjoyed an evening’s entertainment with ‘Entertainer of The Year’ Paul Tayler – known on the circuit as Saul – who lost his father to heart disease in 2012.

Paul said: “I have always enjoyed being able to contribute to charity through offering my services as a singer.

“Since the death of my dad, Barry Tayler, I have found great solace and motivation in organising events and functions.

“I am lucky to have many friends in the industry that are happy to give up their time to support me and these causes.

“This is what being a Freemason, to me, is all about, pooling resources in order to help those less fortunate.

“My dad has inspired me in many ways; being a pillar of the community and philanthropy and since his sudden death, supporting the British Heart Foundation is one way in which I can make a difference.”

The vital funds raised will help the BHF in its fight against heart and circulatory disease – the nation’s biggest killer.

Worshipful Master John Robinson said: “We all know someone who’s been affected by heart disease – sadly it touches us all. It’s great to know that our efforts will make a difference in helping to beat heart disease for good.”

Sue Green,of BHF, said: “We’d like to thank the Freemasons of Leodiensis Lodge for supporting the BHF and for presenting us with such a generous donation.

“The BHF can only continue its life-saving and life-changing work thanks to money raised from events like this.

“We urgently need more organisations like the Freemason’s to support us.

“Keep working with us and together we will beat heart disease – for good.”

If you would like to find out more about organising your own fundraising event for the BHF, or are interested in volunteering, call Sue Green on (01274) 548324 or e-mail greens@bhf.org.uk