TRIBUTES have been paid as a long-standing trustee of a Weymouth charity steps down from the role.

Alan Burt has served with Weymouth Town Charities for more than a decade – but felt it is time to stand aside to let someone else take over.

WTC is now appealing to anyone who may be interested in the voluntary role to get in touch.
Mr Burt served in both parts of the charity, the Sir Samuel Mico Trust and the Sir Henry Edwards Charities.

Chairman of WTC Gary Hepburn said Mr Burt has worked ‘incredibly hard’, helping in ‘all aspects’ of the charity.

“He has been very actively involved over the years. We are very thankful to him and wish him all the best for the future. I hope he will continue to take an active interest from the sidelines.”

The board of trustees manages charitable funds dating back to 1666 when Sir Samuel Mico created the trust by donating £500 to help retired seamen and young people in Weymouth.

The trust now provides scholarships, educational and development grants to around 100 people aged between 16 and 24 each year.

The Sir Henry Edwards charities provides low cost accommodation to elderly people who cannot afford to own or rent a property.

Mr Burt said he had always been ‘very impressed’ by the history of the charities. He got involved when he stepped down from business in 2002.

“I would recommend anyone who has spare time and wants to get involved in a very interesting aspect of the town to get involved.

“When you start there is initially a joining period, to get to know what it’s all about, then you are given responsibilities.

“I worked with both the Sir Samuel Mico Trust and the Sir Henry Edwards charities and got a lot of pleasure out of working with both excellent teams.”

The trustee position is honorary and does not attract any remuneration. Trustees need to reside, or have occupation, or employment in, or other special knowledge of the borough of Weymouth and Portland. For an informal discussion about the charities please call the chairman, Gary Hepburn, on 01305 778169.

To express an interest send a letter stating why you would like to become a trustee together with an up to date CV to: Howard Jones, Clerk to The Trustees, Weymouth Town Charities, 26 St Thomas Street, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8EJ. 

The closing date for expressions of interest is Friday, October 28 2016. Interviews will be undertaken in November.