On Tuesday 3 October, His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester, Vice Royal Patron of The Almshouse Association, joined the trustees, founder’s family and residents at Courtauld Homes of Rest almshouses to join in their centenary celebrations

There was a buzz of excitement as guests gathered in the marquee to await His Royal Highness’s arrival. Plans had been underway for many months with trustees and residents busy making sure their almshouses and the site were in tip-top condition to receive their Royal visitor.

Upon arrival, His Royal Highness was presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, Jennifer Tolhurst to Adrian Corder-Birch, a Deputy Lieutenant and Clerk to the Trustees, who then introduced The Duke to the Mayor of Halstead, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Courtauld Homes of Rest, Anthony Shelton and Nick Phillips, the Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association.

“It was a great honour to meet His Royal Highness and to introduce the Mayor, our trustees and members of the Courtauld family to him.  As I accompanied The Duke around our almshouses, he asked questions about the history, architecture, and gardens in which he was clearly very impressed.  He was particularly interested in our residents and spoke to all of them.”

Adrian-Corder Birch, Deputy Lieutenant and Clerk to the Trustees

Many of the Duke’s Patronages are linked to architecture and conservation, areas the Duke holds great interested in so the Reading Room at Courtauld Homes of Rest were a much appreciated part of his visit. He quickly spotted the pictures and architect’s plan which adorned the walls along with the history of the Courtauld family.

Mr. and Mrs. Fenner were honoured to have the unique privilege of meeting His Royal Highness in their almshouse. They enjoyed a delightful conversation with The Duke, commenting that his visit will be a cherished memory that they will hold dear for years to come.

“My wife Sandra and I were pleased to welcome The Duke into our home, where we have lived for five happy years.  The Duke was interested in the internal layout and learning about our occupations prior to retirement.”

Mr Fenner, resident

After afternoon tea with the trustees, residents and other guests, George Courtauld, Vice Chairman of the Trustees thanked The Duke for his visit.  The Duke gave a warm and informed speech about the almshouse model and its value to the community which delighted all who attended. He then cut the splendid centenary cake made by Jennifer Smith and unveiled two blue plaques to commemorate distinguished members of the Courtauld family and a third plaque recording his visit. 

George Courtauld then presented The Duke with a book about the history of the Homes of Rest and other almshouses, written by Adrian Corder-Birch, especially for the centenary. 

Nick Phillips, CEO, The Almshouse Association commented, “It was a great privilege and honour to receive our Royal Vice Patron, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, at one of our member almshouse charities. The Duke spoke knowledgably and enthusiastically about the almshouse movement and his visit and interest really gave a terrific boost the charity trustees and residents. It was a lovely day that all will remember warmly.

“The Courtauld Homes of Rest has been a member of The Almshouse Association for several decades and to receive a visit from its Royal Vice Patron in recognition of our centenary was a great privilege.”                                   

Chairman, Mr Tony Shelton
HRH visit makes the front page of the Halstead Gazette

posted 12 October 2023