A CENTURIES old Stratford tradition is being revived.
The Municipal Charities of Stratford-Upon-Avon is bringing back the Richard Smith for Bread donation of bread to almspeople.
Stratford mayor Kevin Taylor will be giving out the bread which was last undertaken in the 1950s.
Coun Taylor said: “Municipal Charities do a fantastic job of providing accommodation for 47 residents in their almshouses and it’s great to revive this ancient tradition of giving out bread from the Richard Smith charity for Bread.”
Each year the charity receives £30 from the governors of King Edward VI Grammar School for distribution of bread to the almspeople.
Richard Smith left money in his will of June 1695 for the distribution of bread to 18 poor people.
This has subsequently become a donation of £30 a year for bread for the almspeople.
Municipal Charities chief officer William Clemmey said: “We are grateful to Hathaways Tea Rooms and Bakery for providing the bread for the revival of this tradition.
“We offer our residents housing as well as grants at Christmas and Easter together with a range of outings throughout the year. If you know anyone who would like to become a resident then do get in touch”
Anyone wishing to become a resident should get in touch with the charity at the Guild Cottages address or by email to [email protected] or via their website www.municipal-charities.org.uk/
