Derelict stables become new almshouses in Melton Mowbray

“It was a pleasure to stand in for CEO Nick Phillips and attend the opening of four new almshouses in the bustling market town of Melton Mowbray.

I was warmly welcomed by the Revd Simon Shouler, Chair of Trustees and Mr John Chatfeild-Roberts, High Sheriff of Leicestershire. Approximately thirty guests assembled in the garden on a bright and chilly December lunchtime and tasty refreshments were served, including slices of the famous Melton Mowbray pork pie!

Guests included the local MP Ed Argar and the town mayor Tim Webster, residents, past and present trustees, councillors and the builders, joiners and glazers who built the almshouses.

The almshouses were built by the Hudson’s and Storer’s Charities in the stable block adjacent to the original almshouses. The stables had been built by Lord Melbourn and run by Harry Beeby who stabled the hunters for the famous local hunts. The stables had been derelict for many years.

The new almshouses create a lovely spacious college style courtyard which can be enjoyed by all the residents. Access is through the carriage arch and gateway which hasn’t changed for centuries.

The original almshouses were built by Robert Hudson in 1640 and named Maison de Dieu but the residents just called it The Bedehouse and the name stuck. The Bedehouse remained virtually unchanged until the 1980s when it was converted into four flats.

The stable conversion was made possible by a generous endowment and fulfils a long held dream of the charity to extend the provision of almsflats and create a college garden.

It is always very special to see new almshouses open up and to chat with trustees and residents. This visit was no exception. Thank you for taking the time to make me so welcome and to show me around.”