Goodbye to proctor and former chairman, Richard Papworth

Newbury Almshouse Trust has changed significantly over the last twenty-five years but one constant element has been proctor, trustee and former chair Richard Papworth. In May, Richard said goodbye to trustees and residents after deciding to step down from his role.

Richard was invited to join the Trust in 2000 after a chance meeting at a Cancer Care AGM. They were looking for young blood to join and were keen to get Richard involved. At the time, the Trust was led by chairman Bill Blake. The Blake family had a long history with the Trust as Robin, Bill’s son, was chair after his father, and Robin’s wife Mary Blake took up the role of Clerk. Richard had an interview with both Bill and Robin prior to taking up a position, and became both a proctor and a trustee. Proctors perform an essential role for the running of the almshouses, providing a vital link between the Trust and residents in the 42 properties.

During Richard’s five years as chair, from 2015 to 2020, he was able to help the Trust build up their funds, which was a great help for the major refurbishments needed for the almshouses over the last five years. He also oversaw changes at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, with the front garden changed from gravel to more aesthetically pleasing grass. A long-term responsibility was the historic clock at St Bart’s, which Richard wound every other day for many years, until he handed over the task to a resident in 2024.

Richard’s role as proctor has been one of the most fulfilling during his time with the Trust. Richard said, “I have always enjoyed spending time with our almshouse residents. We’ve created a great community, and I look forward to seeing it grow in future years.”

Current chairman, John Craig, said, “Richard has been an invaluable member of our team, creating strong relationships with residents and making sure that their needs are represented. His history with the Trust and his twenty-five years’ experience will be sorely missed, but we wish him all the best for his future free time.”

Richard will continue to take an interest in the almshouses. He said, “It’s an exciting time for the Trust, with many new trustees taking on different roles and important decisions to be made.”

The Trust has recently appointed a new proctor, Steve Marwick, to join current proctors Roz Morris and Jane Kelly.