A CHARITABLE trust set up in memory of the late Wisbech fruit merchant Samuel Wallace Smedley has funded more homes for “deserving old and needy people”.

Grandson Michael Smedley said he was proud to open four new residential apartments in Cannon Street, Wisbech to help those elderly people most in need of housing assistance in the area.

The first Smedley Homes flats were built in 1966, primarily to help former farm workers who could not afford to buy a home once they retired.

More than 40 years on, Mr Smedley said the need for accommodation for the elderly was just as important with a shortage of housing and rising costs of living.

He added: “People living out in the countryside have found that their Post Office and shops have closed when they probably don’t drive any more.

“They want to come into the town to be nearer to the shops, doctors, supermarkets and churches.”

Mr Smedley said the need for affordable homes was such that The Smedley Charitable Trust would find no problem filling the homes.

The first has gone to 72-year-old Janet Whiting, who moved in yesterday (Thursday, October 17), and said her new home was “lovely”.

“I am sure I will be very comfortable,” she said.

The apartments, designed by architect Richard Waite of Kings Lynn, have energy-efficient air source heat pumps to provide heating and hot water as well as strong floor, wall and roof insulation to keep the heat in.

The Automist fire protection system, which sprays water from the kitchen taps in the event of a fire, has also been installed along with high-efficiency double-glazing.

Mr Smedley said: “We are delighted to be able to bring new high-quality accommodation to the area at a time of economic need.

“The apartments have been designed to be economic to live in for the new residents.

“We hope they will be happy and enjoy joining in activities with the other residents,”

CONTACT: Debbie Biggs, Smedley Homes warden, on 01945 583947 or dbiggs4@aol.com to find out about the waiting list for accommodation.