A GARDEN party has been held to celebrate the 75th anniversary of a charity that provides housing for older people in Knutsford.

The Marjorie Hurst Trust is part of the Almshouse Association which was founded in 1946.

Four cottages were left in her will on Silkmill Street close to the indoor market.

In 1997, six flats were built under the chairmanship of the late Cllr Bert Grange.

Rick Dallimore, chairman of the Marjorie Hurst Trust, said: "The tea party was attended by 20 residents and friends along with trustees.

"It was a real success with homemade scones and cakes and a good deal of talk over many cups of tea.

"The sun shone and everyone had a good time.

"After such a long time in lockdown it was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to meet in a relaxed and happy way."

The oldest resident aged 98 joined the celebration.

"We have a lot to thank Marjorie Hurst for," said Rick. "She left four cottages to the trust and some money.

"Now thanks to the hard work of Cllr Bert Grange we have six flats as well. He was a very popular man with lots of vision and determination. Many Knutsfordonians will remember him well.

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"Thanks to all the trustees for their hard work over the years and particular thanks to clerk Sarah Baron who looks after everything and everyone so meticulously."

Prince Charles, patron of The Almshouse Association, congratulated the charity on its anniversary.

In a personal letter, he said: "I am always struck by the wonderful sense of community, wellbeing and independence that are the hallmarks of the almshouse movement.

"I think that this stems from the unique bond that is formed between residents and locally recruited trustees, many of who have grown up close to their local almshouses and now wish to give something back to the local community.

"This sets a fine example that enriches the lives of residents, trustees and the almshouse movement as a whole."