A Keighley organisation has received a massive boost in its bid to buy special IT equipment for the blind and partially sighted. Keighley and District Association for the Blind was presented with a cheque for £750 from a local Masonic group this week.

The cash will go towards a £16,000 project to upgrade and extend the IT facilities used by members in its Scott Street building. The donation from the Yorkshire and West Riding branch of the Mason's has been organised through the Chapter of Judea No 265, in Bradford.

First principal of the Chapter of Judea, Peter Shields, says: "One of my former colleagues at Bradford and Bingley, John McKenzie, told me about the great work done by the association and its IT project.

"The money is collected by freemasons throughout West Yorkshire which goes into the Grand Master's fund and is then donated to non-Masonic charities like this."

John McKenzie, who originally hails from Oakworth but now lives in Manchester, adds: "My father Lewis went blind two years ago and the creative writing he had done for the last ten to 20 years seemed to come to an end."

Since then he has spent time with John, who has taught him the windows package and how to touch type, and it has made a huge difference.

"I think they do a remarkable job here and I am glad they are receiving this kind of support."

Fundraising appeals manager Carole Godley says: "This donation takes us on to £10,000 so it is a tremendous boost to our funds and very welcome."

Specialist computer software and equipment, including a £8,500 braille link keyboard, will be bought with funds, which will also pay for IT instructor John Holt on a full time basis.

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