A 383-year-old charitable promise. Now facing its most important test.

In 1642, Henry Robinson bequeathed land in Thanet to fund scholarships and fellowships for those born in the area. St John’s College, Cambridge was appointed as trustee to oversee this legacy.

Over 383 years later, serious questions have arisen.

What We Have Found

Based on public records and Freedom of Information requests:

• No documentation has been identified evidencing the award of scholarships or fellowships under the 1642 will

• No documentation has been identified showing that the trust was formally varied or brought to an end.

Why This Matters Now

In December 2025, outline planning permission was granted for up to 1,600 homes on land in Birchington forming part of the trust land.

Legal proceedings are now underway in the High Court in relation to this issue.

Our Mission

The Thanet Trust Association was established to represent the intended beneficiaries of this bequest.

We seek transparency in the administration of the trust and accountability in decisions affecting the land — including the planning process through which it is being developed.

Why We Need Your Help

We have commenced judicial review proceedings and are pursuing related legal challenges to ensure proper consideration of the trust’s charitable purpose.

This work involves:

• Court fees and filing costs

• Legal advice and representation

• Ongoing investigation and evidence gathering

Your support makes this work possible.

How You Can Help

This is a community-led effort to ensure a historic charitable legacy is properly understood and upheld.

Every contribution — no matter how big or small — helps ensure that this 383-year-old legacy is properly understood and accounted for.

If you are unable to donate, sharing this page is equally valuable.

Thank You!