The Burghope charity was set up in 1723 by the former vicar of Edlesborough, The Revd George Burghope. He gave 10 acres of land behind the church in Edlesborough to fund the charity, now called The Burghope Trust.  The original terms of the charity stipulated that divine service be performed in the parish church on certain days in Lent, and after Burghope’s death, on the anniversary of his funeral (26th May). Additionally, the sum of 6s 8d (33p) was distributed yearly amongst the poor who attend the Lent services and 20s (£1) a year to poor widows who attend the anniversary service and heard the sermon. The parish clerk did very well from it, as he received 3s 4d for tolling the bell on St John’s Day.

The terms of the charity were revised and now no one has to listen to a sermon any longer!

The Charity originally covered Edlesborough, Dagnall and Northall. Eaton Bray was formally included in 2013.

It is a small charity. The funds originate from the sale of a portion of land that was to the northwest of the churchyard in Edlesborough. By the mid 1980’s the churchyard was reaching capacity. As a result, a portion of the land to the north west was sold to the parish council to create an adjacent cemetery. The remaining area approximately 7 acres 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 (COIF).

The objectives of the charity are to use the income

  • In making payment to the PCC for further the work of the Church
  • 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 to organisations that provide services to such persons.

Anyone in the Parish can apply to the charity for assistance. Some of the people and groups we have helped are:

  • Ukrainian Families
  • Help for people with disabilities
  • Grants to assist pupils on school trips
  • Eaton Bray Good Neighbours
  • Friends of the Church on the Hill, Edlesborough, Kitchen and West Window restoration
  • St. Mary's Eaton Bray PCC
  • Under 5 clubs
  • Christmas lunches
  • Edan transport
  • Dagnall defibrillator

We are really trying to increase the awareness of Burghope’s Charity Land. We are fortunate to live in an area where there are low poverty levels. However, if anybody feels that they know of someone or has a group that may benefit from a grant from The Burghope Trust. We would be delighted to hear from them.

The charity can be contacted at [email protected]