Legacy

It all started when…

The Clan Trust was established in 1968 by the late Robert Alston of Witton Hall, North Walsham, Norfolk.

With no heirs, but an outstanding sense of community and generosity, Robert decided to make a legacy of all his land, the farming business and his considerable equity portfolio.

To manage the legacy, the assets were split into two sections. To lead by example and indeed fitting with Robert’s intentions to support the young in agriculture, the farming business was given to his then farm manager, William Donald.

The land and equity assets were put into Trust, registered as a charity and a limited company.

Inaugurating the Trust at his 60th birthday, Robert appointed nine trustees to take care of its affairs henceforth. Over time the baton of responsibility has been passed on to carefully selected successors.

His words from the Clan Trust Foundation Book can be viewed here.

Vera Ethel Crane

Vera Ethel Crane lived in the small village of Weybread, near Harleston in Norfolk, and passed away in October 2020 at the age of 94.

Vera was born on Chancel Farm in Weybread, but her family soon moved to the neighbouring Pear Tree Farm, a mixed venture where she bred rabbits and looked after chickens, turkeys and ducks.

Vera always loved farming and left a significant legacy to the Clan Trust to help young farmers across Norfolk.

We are extremely grateful for individuals like Vera who support us - bequeathments like this boost our ability to give back to the rural community.

Read more about Vera’s donation on our news page: