VILLAGERS gathered recently to thank and celebrate long standing trustees of a centuries-old charitable trust which owns two public buildings in Upper Wharfedale.

One of the trustees of the Craven School Foundation, Jeremy Daggett, revealed at the celebration that he had in fact been a trustee for 49 years instead of the 'around 25' it had been believed.

The event, which also marked the long service of Angela Townend, honorary treasurer of the trust for 14 years, was organised by the current trustees, and was attended by representatives of Hebden and Hartlington parishes, both of which nominate trustees to sit on the Craven School Foundation.

The trust, founded by Sir William Craven in 1602, is the main owner of Burnsall VA Primary School, and more recently the former Burnsall Methodist Chapel.

Trustee and honorary secretary, John Townend welcomed everyone, including two new trustees, Dr Spencer Bentley representing Hartlington and Hebden Parishes, and Jo Snee representing Thorpe.

He explained the duties and aims of the trust, and how trustees are appointed, including the appointment of federation governors. The trust lets the former Methodist chapel building to the formerly named Hebden Lodge Nursery, which provides nursery provision in the area, and acts as a feeder to the school.

Peter Weatherhead, chair of trustees, thanked Jeremy for his many years’ service as a trustee, including his time as a school governor, and recalled significant events regarding the school during his time with the trust.

Mr Daggett's period as a trustee was thought to be about 25 years, but Jeremy surprised the guests by saying that he became a trustee in 1979 - a period of 45 years.

Angela was thanked for her 14 years service as honorary treasurer. She had started in 2010, a busy time for the trust, which at the time was in the process of buying the Methodist chapel, heard those at the event. She has also been responsible for administering the trust's bank accounts, and investments; duties which have now been passed on to the new honorary treasurer, Emma Fox.

Both Jeremy and Angela were each presented with a framed drawing of Burnsall School by Sir Edward Brentwood Maufe, architect of Guildford Cathedral, who it is believed must have visited Burnsall at some time and been inspired to make a drawing of the school.

The trust's function is to ensure that Burnsall Primary School is continued and remains true to the vision of its founder Sir William Craven. It maintains the school premises and supports capital projects.