A WHEELCHAIR friendly mini-bus named in memory of much respected Craven volunteer the late Jean McHale has been added to the fleet of charity Skipton Step into Action.

Purchase of the charity's latest vehicle was made possible thanks to a £5,000 grant on behalf of the Craven Lodge of the West Riding Masonic Charities.

The money was raised by lodges including Craven Lodge through member donations, raffles, fundraising nights and other initiatives.

Phil Smith Lodge Almoner at Craven Lodge said: “Charity plays a huge role in what we do as Freemasons.We welcome applications from local organisations and clubs for grants, in the past we have donated money to countless local organisations such as SELFA and Skipton Juniors.”

The mini-bus has been named 'Jean' in memory of Jean McHale, who died last year. Jean was a member of Craven Voluntary Action which wound up in 2009. Of its two projects, she ran Daybreak, a social group that met twice a week at Broughton Road community centre.

Initially, 'Jean' will be available to help people get to and from health appointments.

And, in the very near future, Skipton Step into Action hopes to use Jean to offer weekly shopping trips and social activities in the Skipton and South Craven community - filling the gap led by the collapse at the end of last year of Skipton and Craven Action for Disabilities (SCAD).

Mr Smith, added: “We’re delighted to help. Skipton Step into Action are an incredible organisation who do wonderful things for individuals and communities. If you see Jean on her important travels, give her a wave."

Skipton Step into Action was set up three years ago by Charlotte McKeown and Sarah Wilson during the coronavirus pandemic by volunteers to help people during the lockdowns including with their shopping and getting prescriptions. Its volunteers also helped as vaccinators with the administering and delivery of Covid vaccinations.

Since the pandemic, it has grown and recently forged a partnership with the Rotary Club of Skipton Craven. The charity's volunteers have helped with Rotary tea parties for the vulnerable, at the The Great Skipton Santa Fun Run and the Santa Sleigh collections.

Anyone interested in using the service provided by ‘Jean’, or for more information about SSIA call 01756 802 098.

For more information about Freemasonry, such as apply for a grant or joining Craven Lodge email: craven810.membership@gmail.com