Susan Foss, deputy manager of The Old Enfield Charitable Trust, on its role in the community

Market Place in Enfield Town has become the place to be, with another hugely successful season of events.

In April we held our St George’s Day Parade, in May there was the Charter Fayre, and in July there was the Enfield Market Beach event for children and parents alike – this year sponsored by Metaswitch and installed by McLaren Construction. All the above were free community events in the heart of Enfield.

Aside from these special events we host a weekly market open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. New stalls are opening all the time, adding to the appeal of a market that can trace its history back to 1303 – when the first licence for a market in Enfield was granted by Edward I.

For, despite being able to trace its history back hundreds of years, Market Place is as relevant as ever and remains at the heart of the community. This is thanks to the work of The Old Enfield Charitable Trust, the registered charity which owns and runs the site. Profits from the weekly rent collected goes towards the £250,000 awarded in grants each year to needy members who reside within the ancient parish of Enfield.

The trust has been awarding grants since the year 1547. They are awarded under three categories; personal grants for items within the home; education grants for students in further education; and community grants for local charities, groups and organisations benefiting the local community.

We have a board of 15 trustees, who each bring different skills and experience to the organisation. The board sets the guidelines for us to follow, while the trust’s day-to-day work is carried out by a team of dedicated staff.

If you feel you are in need of a grant and you reside within the ancient parish of Enfield, please get in touch. Our staff can advise you of your egibility. If you are interested in local history you can also visit the Old Vestry Office in The Town on Saturday 21st September, 11am-3pm, as part of the Open House London event. The original Royal Charter and seal will be exhibited on the day along with ledger books dating back to the 1600s!

For more information about The Old Enfield Charitable Trust:
Call 020 8367 8941
Visit thetrustenfield.org.uk

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