Burghope Charity Land

Burghopes Charity Land (written by Brian Peevor (Treasurer) in about 1998)

George Burghope, vicar of Edlesborough 1667-1691, gave land to the Duke of Bridgewater and required that the proceeds be given to the Churchwardens to distribute to the poor. Originally certain sermons had to be preached by the vicar but eventually because of poor attendance this was reduced to one on the anniversary of Burghope’s death, to be attended by the poor widows and other poor of the parish, the monies from the Charity being distributed afterwards. It can be seen from the vestry record that even in 1865 “It was found impossible to distribute the money according to the special terms of the will.”

The terms of the charity were revised and updated in 1987. Fortunately no one has to attend a sermon! The land was originally 8.91 acres to the north and west of the churchyard. When the churchyard was almost full and room for burials was very limited that portion to the north was sold to the Parish Council as an extension to the churchyard. A small portion adjacent to the house in Leighton Road was sold to the then owner with strict rules as to its use (for instance no building can take place on it).  the remaining area is let to a local farmer who pays rent to the charity. The money from the sale of the land is invested in the Charities Official Investment Fund.

The objects of the charity are to use the income 1) in making payments to the Parochial Church Council for furthering the work of the church and 2) for relief in need of individuals or local charitable organisations.

Payment is by one-off grants to relieve hardship need or distress of individuals or organisations that provide services to such persons.