A CHARITY which provides services for people with disabilities has been the recipient of a £5,000 donation.

Gateway Into The Community has used the funding boost from Northumberland Freemasons to purchase a special massage chair.

It will provide therapy and emotional comfort for people who have a range of conditions, including anxiety, autism and physical difficulties.

Julia Ferguson, chief executive of Gateway into the Community, based on St Mary’s Chare, Hexham, said: “This chair will be one of the key features in our new sensory room

“We are very grateful to the Freemasons for their kind and thoughtful donation.”

Ian Craigs, the provincial Grand Master for Northumberland, said: “The donation to Gateway will make many people’s lives easier through the treatment they get and we are more than happy to support them.”