Town feast to mark historic Warwick benefactor

Chairman of the Thomas Oken Charity, Clive Mason, with Dr Ann Thurley and the Rev Vaughan Roberts at St Marys church.

A feast will be held next Friday (January 29) following a service at the town’s St Mary’s church in the yearly tradition.

The trustees of the Thomas Oken charity, which bears the name of the 16th century benefactor, hope for support of the town at the 7pm service.

Charity chairman Clive Mason said: “It’s a wonderful service that is held in accordance with Thomas Oken’s wishes and everyone in the town is invited to come and enjoy the music and hymns.”

The evening will begin with the traditional parade of trustees, dignitaries and townspeople from the Court House to the church, led by Mr Mason and town mayor, Cllr Mandy Littlejohn.

It will end with a feast in the Lord Leycester Hospital, where guests will include MP Chris White and members of Warwick’s Court Leet.

The Charity of Thomas Oken and Nicholas Eyffler was founded in 1571 and today owns 14 alms houses in Castle Hill and Bowling Green Street. It also makes significant grants to those in need.