The charity has its origins in the will of John Hyrne who died in 1689. He bequeathed the profits of ten acres of land to be used for the benefit of the parish. In due course this became the John Hyrne (Easter) Charity when the money was distributed to the poor.
Other land became available under an Enclosure Award in the 19th century to be used as ‘allotments for the labouring poor’. Another piece of land, granted in the Tithe Awards of 1849, is rented to a local farmer. The income from these plots of land continues to provide the funds from which grants are made to people in need.
Costessey is a large and rapidly developing community, some of whose inhabitants need help. Recipients include the elderly, children, the unemployed, those who are physically or mentally ill or whose family circumstances have brought hardship.
Applicants must live in, work in or have a strong connection with Costessey. All applicants are dealt with promptly, sensitively and in confidence. They can be submitted by groups or organisations on behalf of individuals.
The charity is registered with the Charities Commission (No. 1077070) and is administered through Trustees from education, business, churches and youth in the local community. There are four trustees for the Charity all of whom are unpaid.