THE Grand Master for Essex Freemasonry has called on the county to support an emergency appeal following the Manchester bombing.

Rodney Bass, Provincial Grand Master is providing assistance for the bereaved families. A national appeal has already been launched by Freemasons in Manchester, raising £30,000 in 24 hours.

Essex Freemasons has made a payment of £10,000 to help those affected by the attack, which took place during American singer Ariana Grande’s concert at Manchester Arena on Monday night.

Suicide bomber Salman Abedi detonated an improvised explosive device killing 22 people and injuring 64.

A minute’s silence was held yesterday at 11am in remembrance of those who lost their lives or were affected by the attack.

Mr Bass said: “Our hearts must go out to all those families now suffering as a result of this mindless act of terrorism.

“In the days to come many of those families will need financial assistance, which is why I am pleased to support this initiative in Manchester.

“Essex Masons have always provided support in such times of need and I am calling on all of our members to get behind this appeal to do what we can for these families hit by this tragic incident.

“I will also be in touch with the Provincial Grand Master in East Lancashire to inform him that we will be making an immediate payment of £10,000 from our central funds.”

Visit www.eastlancsmasons.org.uk to donate.