www.stpancrasalmshouses.org

8th July 2009

On Wednesday 8 July 2009 the St Pancras Almshouses were delighted to receive a visit from His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to mark the 150th anniversary of the Almshouses on their present site. 

Prince Charles was given a tour of the Almshouses, including the new vegetable garden, and was shown the historical exhibition and the plans for the comprehensive redevelopment of the accommodation that the Alsmhouses provide. His Royal Highness visited two of the flats and then talked to all residents and distinguished guests who wanted to meet him over a cup of tea and sandwiches on the lawn.

Finally Chairman Richard Lindley made a short speech of thanks to Prince Charles in which he said that while the horrors of the old Victorian workhouse had gone the almshouses which had come into being as a humane alternative still provided a home and a haven today for those who needed it. What almshouses and the monarchy had in common, he suggested, was continuity. 

Residents and visitors joined together in drinking a champagne toast to His Royal Highness - who, if appearances are anything to go by, had much enjoyed his visit. A plaque unveiled by Prince Charles now records this splendid occasion, the high point of the St Pancras Almshouses 150th anniversary celebrations.

HRH met as many of the almshouse residents as was possible.

The event received coverage in the local press: Hampstead and Highgate Express, Camden New Journal. Further coverage and photographs are available at the Prince of Wales' own website, Getty Images and Zimbio.

Following Prince Charles' departure the residents contrinued their celebration by performing a specially commissioned play, Dr Fraser's Dream.