May - Woodlands House of Prayer Trust

Brunel Manor is held in trust by the Woodlands House of Prayer Trust, founded by two ladies, Margaret Barbour and Vera Hawkins, 70 years ago this July, when they purchased two houses in London for ‘the establishment of a home for the purpose of affording the means of physical and spiritual help to those in need’. The trust then moved to Eastbourne before buying Watcombe Manor, Torquay (now Brunel Manor) in January 1963 for £28,500. The house and grounds were intended to be Brunel’s retirement home but he died before the house was built.

The Trust now operates from three buildings, the Manor, the Court and the Lodge, as a Christian Holiday and Conference Centre. Many church groups meet for weekends throughout the year and feedback from guests shows how much the peaceful atmosphere, the extensive facilities, as well as the good food and warm hospitality means to them. Themed breaks, often with a visiting speaker, are also popular and guests regularly express their appreciation of the ministry which is provided.

The Court, originally the stables to the Manor, has recently been refurbished to provide accommodation for schools, youth groups and university Christian Unions.

A very important aspect of the charity’s work is the support it can provide for individuals or families at difficult times in their lives. Recently, they were privileged to be able to work with another local charity to provide free accommodation for a family with a very sick family member. The charity has a hospitality fund which is used to subsidise or pay for such provision.

Friends of Brunel Manor receive regular updates on the work at the Manor and are very faithful prayer warriors! Many contribute regularly financially and some pay frequent visits. One Friend stayed at the Manor ten times in 2011!

The motto of the Trust is ‘Given to Hospitality’ and, as the tricky path of Health and Safety compliance in a Grade II listed building is negotiated, the Trustees are daily aware of their reliance on God’s strength and guidance, as they seek to continue to give Him glory through ministry and service for the next 70 years!

For more information visit http://www.brunelmanor.com