The Eversholt Parochial Charity
Charity Commission Number 200693
History
The roots of our village charity are almost buried by time. The scheme was formally registered with the Charity Commissioners in 1882, but its antecedents are known to date back for at least 250 years. Various parcels of local land were acquired by the Trustees who used the income from the land to fund the local school and assist those in need. The scheme has been revised from time to time, but always within the broad principles which were established in the original deed.
Sources of income
The Charity’s income comes from the rents received from its properties which include The Green Man Public House, Town Farm, Town Farmhouse, four cottages and various parcels of land in the village.
After the costs for managing and maintaining the properties are met, the annual net income is distributed for the benefit of the villagers and village. This income is divided into three equal shares, known as “The Thirds”.
Who administers the Charity?
There are 12 trustees who ae appointed in accordance with the rules of the Charity. Some are nominated by local bodies such as the Parish Council and the Parochial Church Council. The Rector is always one of the Trustees and others are chosen by reference to their local knowledge and experience.
The Thirds
The Church Third
This is for the upkeep and maintenance of the village church of St John the Baptist and is paid directly to the church.
The Wellbeing Third
Previously known as “The Poor’s Third”, this Third is for the promotion and enhancement of the wellbeing of Eversholt residents. The Third supports:
- Annual financial awards to enable residents to meet their wellbeing needs.
- The Village Agent (Lizzie Barnicoat) who supports village residents with confidential and practical solutions and advice
- Monthly Lizzie Lunches at the village hall
- Quarterly village newsletter – Eversholt News (together with The Village and Educational Third)
The Village and Educational Third
This is for the general benefit of the inhabitants of Eversholt. Historically it was used exclusively to fund individual educational needs, including those of all school aged children. Currently it provides financial support (‘awards’) to residents who are in further/higher education or vocational training. The receive the award an individual application needs to be made to the Charity Clerk before the end of August each year.
Over recent years, a discretionary award has been made to the village school, to help in the perpetuation of this valued village institution.
Contact
The Clerk to the Trustees of the Eversholt Parochial Charity, 8 Bloomsbury Close, Woburn, Beds MK17 9QS.
By email: eversholtcharity@gmail.com
Village Agent
Lizzie Barnicoat – lizziebarnicoat@gmail.com