A HALSTEAD charity association welcomed a royal visitor to join in with its centenary celebrations.

Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who is Vice Royal Patron of the Almshouse Association, joined the trustees, founder’s family and residents at Courtauld Homes of Rest Almshouses in the town.

Plans had been underway for many months with trustees and residents busy making sure the almshouses and the site were in top condition.

Upon arrival, Prince Richard was introduced by Lord-Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst to deputy lieutenant and clerk to the trustees Adrian Corder-Birch.

He 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 to Nick Phillips, the chief executive of the Almshouse Association.

Many of the Duke's patronages are related to architecture and conservation, both areas in which he remains greatly interested.

During his visit, Prince Richard visited the Reading Room as well as speaking to residents Mr and Mrs Fenner, who have lived on the site for five years.

After afternoon tea with the trustees, residents and other guests, vice chairman of the trustees George Courtauld thanked the Duke for his visit. 

Prince Richard then cut the centenary cake made by Jennifer Smith, before unveiling 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. 

Mr Corder-Birch said: “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.”

Almshouse Association chief exec Nick Phillips added: “We were delighted to be able to support Courtauld Homes of Rest to organise this special royal visit.

“The Duke’s visits to our members' almshouses are always treasured and offer a sense of pride to residents and trustees alike.”