Sunshine and celebration filled the air last week as His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester visited Great Shelford Village Charity’s new almshouse development at More’s Meadow. It was a day of warmth, community spirit and wonderful memories for all.

His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester, was warmly welcomed by residents and trustees before embarking on a tour of the beautiful new almshouses, taking time to meet those who now call More’s Meadow home.

A particularly joyful moment came as the children of Great Shelford and More’s Meadow gathered to help His Royal Highness plant a young apple tree, a lasting symbol of a fruitful community and hope. The children were delighted and very well aware of the honour and privilege it was to share the experience with a senior member of The Royal Family.

The day concluded in perfect English tradition, with tea, homemade cake and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by His Royal Highness, ensuring the memory of this special visit will be preserved for generations to come.

It was, without doubt, a day of shared celebration – one shared by the entire almshouse community and all in the village of Great Shelford.

CEO of The Almshouse Association, Nick Phillips, commented, “It was a distinct honour to welcome His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester, Royal Vice Patron of The Almshouse Association, to one of the UK’s leading almshouse charities. The visit highlighted the trustees’ bold and imaginative intergenerational community project that provides warm, supportive housing for residents ranging in age from six months to over seventy years.”