LOCAL man, John Crook, is celebrating his 20th anniversary as a trustee of Melksham Almshouses Charities.
The charity manages five 19th-century almshouses in Bath Road, which they rent to local people, and also. provide financial support to local organisations via their grants.
To mark his anniversary, Melksham News caught up with John to find out more about the charity, why he got involved, and the current vacancy they have at the almshouses in Bath Road.
How does it feel to be celebrating 20 years with Melksham Almshouses Charities?
“It’s unbelievable! I can’t believe that it has been 20 years already!”
What do you enjoy about your work with the charity?
“It keeps my mind occupied! I’ve been involved with the charity before I retired as town clerk for Melksham Town Council, but I always said that once I retired I wanted to give back to the town.
“I’m not any good at doing anything practical with my hands – so this suits me better. I’m also involved with local organisations like Link and Hope Debt.
“It’s nice to be involved and I am proud of all the local organisations that we have been able to help through the Melksham Almshouses Charities.”
Tell us more about the work of Melksham Almshouses Charities.
“The charity also has investments tied up in stocks and bonds – and the income of this enables us to give grants to local organisations – local schools and Young Melksham have benefited from our support.
“And we also manage five properties left to the charity by Quaker and philanthropist Rachel Fowler. Originally they were meant for spinsters and widows – mainly ladies over the age of 50. But as the years have gone by, we have widened the scope – by permission of the Charity Commission – to allow men as well.
“They are suitable for single people, the rent is very reasonably at £103 a week, and although I say it myself, the charity is a wonderful landlord. They get their white goods provided, they have a communal garden that we maintain, and the properties were completely modernised a few years ago – we spent a lot of money on them. We have one vacancy available now – and we hope to find someone to move in soon.”
The accommodation available, comprising of a lounge, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and ensuite toilet, is available for a single person, who will be responsible for a weekly payment, currently £103 and the payment of council tax, electricity and contents insurance. Potential tenants must have an association with Melksham, or the Melksham Without area – they might already live in the area, or work in the area.
Applications should be made to the secretary, Russell Lewis, by Tuesday 15th September on 01380 830372 or email Russell.lewis7@btinternet.com
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