Thatcham Memorial Foundation appeals for new trustees

Thatcham Memorial Foundation is appealing for new volunteers to come forward as trustees, writes Richard Maynard.

Nominations to become a trustee are now open, and applications will be accepted up to 9am on Wednesday, September 24.

Thatcham Memorial Foundation is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) that serves the people of Thatcham and surrounding areas from its own 7.5-acre site in central Thatcham.

The foundation has been on the same site for more than 70 years and aims to provide facilities for Thatcham, including a village hall and playing fields for recreation, organised sport and leisure time activities.

The charity directly operates Thatcham Memorial Hall and the Memorial Playing Fields as hireable amenity space. Parts of the site are leased to other organisations such as Thatcham Bowling Club and 2nd Thatcham Scout Group.

The two tennis courts on the site are owned by the foundation but operated on a day-to-day basis by the National Tennis Association. It is hoped these courts will re-open on Friday, September 26 after a closure to allow flood alleviation works.

The chairman of Thatcham Memorial Foundation, Nathan Gregory, said: “Becoming a trustee can be the start of an exciting journey but it isn’t just about meetings or policies. It’s about influence. It’s about service. It’s about standing up for values that matter and guiding an organisation to fulfil its mission ensuring that its objectives are upheld for all beneficiaries.

“This isn’t about having all the answers. No trustee ever starts out knowing everything. What matters is your willingness to learn, and to ask questions.”

The Board of Trustees is the governing body responsible for ensuring that the charity is run effectively, legally, and in line with its stated mission. The foundation is regulated by the Charity Commission and must follow its guidance for trusteeship. The board comprises up to 12 Trustees.

Completed nomination forms should be returned to enquiries@thatchammemorial.org.uk

An information pack is available from the foundation, outlining what the role involves and who is eligible to become a trustee.

For more information, contact the Thatcham Memorial Foundation via the email address above or telephone (01635) 868244. You can also visit the foundation’s website at thatchammemorial.org.uk/