Following the Second World War it was donated by the late Edward Stimpson, on behalf of the Stimpson family, to the people of Reepham, and it is held in trust.
 
The Stimpson’s Piece Trust is a charity that is accountable for ensuring compliance with the trust deed and is itself accountable to the Charity Commission.
 
Although Reepham Town Council is the sole trustee of Stimpson’s Piece, this role is separate from its role as the town council, and separate meetings of the trustees take place, usually after the monthly town council meeting.
 
Many residents may not be aware that there are two distinct parts to the pavilion. The changing room area is the home of Reepham Town Football Club, and the hall, which is effectively a large community area with a kitchen and toilets, is available for hire.
 
The hall is used for a wide range of activities ranging from baby massage to dodgeball. Despite keeping hire charges as low as possible, the trustees are aware that a small number of people cannot understand why the trust cannot allow free or very low cost use of the pavilion. This is due to the pavilion having no source of income that would allow this.
 
Although the town council contributes towards the general upkeep of the open spaces, children’s play areas and safety aspects of the pavilion, the Stimpson’s Piece Trust relies largely on income from grants, Broadland District Council’s Community at Heart Lottery ticket sales, lettings and donations to fund the maintenance and cleaning of the pavilion.
 
The trustees also rely to a large extent on the goodwill and care of users to ensure that Stimpson’s Piece remains a pleasant place to visit.
 
There are designated areas for dog walking and dog bins are provided but, unfortunately, a small number of irresponsible owners allow their dogs to run loose on the sports pitches and children’s play areas and do not clean up after them.
 
Anyone who is caught on the CCTV system or by a vigilant member of the public failing to clean up after their dog will be reported to Broadland District Council Environment Team and may be fined.
 
The Stimpson’s Piece Trust asks all those who use and enjoy Stimpson’s Piece to help care for it by reporting incidents, such as graffiti, fly-tipping and criminal damage, to the clerk of the town council, who is also clerk to the Stimpson’s Piece Charity.
 
If you would like to enquire about hiring the hall, this can be arranged by the clerk, who can be contacted on 01603 873355 or email.
 
Paul Mitchell, Chair, Reepham Town Council