A LONG-standing trustee of a social housing charity has retired after 36 years of service.
Sue Ashworth spent decades at the helm of the Highweek Charities which runs eight flats for the elderly in need at Gilberd’s House Almshouse.
She was presented with gifts from her fellow trustees in recognition of her work.
Sue explained that when she was asked to become involved she agreed because she considered it a worthwhile casue.
She said: ‘We are executing the wills of people who left money generations ago to provide for the elderly in need.
‘The charity will go from strength to strength, it’s working well and the flats are full of happy people.
‘It is different from other forms of social housing because as trustees, we have a personal responsibility for the tenants to manage and maintain the almshouses as well as having a wider interest.
‘I thought it was time to step down as the charity needs new blood and forward thinking but there is a national lack of people volunteering.
‘But I am leaving it in excellent shape.’
Trustee Richard Jenks is taking over as chairman.
The charity, which dates back hundreds of years, is run by a board of voluntary trustees and managed day to day by a clerk.
It manages unfurnished homes designed for older people with the principle that residents should enjoy independence while living in secure accommodation.
The aim is that residents should enjoy independence and the freedom to come and go as they please while living in comfortable and secure accommodation.
Residents should feel confident in the knowledge that support will always be available, whether from the charity itself or from outside agencies.’