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Eldonian Community Trust Limited is pleased to confirm that an application made by Shaun Smith Enterprises Limited to reinstate a claim in the sum of £25,500 against the charity has today been dismissed in full by District Judge Metcalf. This decision brings the matter to a close. The current Board of Trustees, appointed in 2025, has approached this matter with a clear and consistent focus: to protect the interests of the charity and the community it serves, while ensuring that all issues are addressed properly and transparently. The Court’s decision provides certainty and allows the Trust to continue its work without the distraction of ongoing proceedings. The Trustees wish to place firmly on record their sincere thanks to Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens and Paul Currie of Liverpool Legal Limited for their professionalism, diligence, and support throughout. Reflecting on today’s outcome, Maureen Price, Vice Chair said: “I’m really pleased to see this resolved—it gives us the space to move forward and focus on what truly matters: our community. My sincere thanks go to Daniel Crowley and Paul Curry for their commitment and support throughout. There’s a renewed sense of positivity, and I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together next.” Trustee, Frances Sibert added: “This is very welcome news and an important step forward for us all. It allows us to put our full energy back into supporting the community and continuing the positive progress we’ve been making. I would also like to thank Daniel Crowley and Paul Curry for their professionalism and support throughout. I’m proud of how the charity has come together and I’m optimistic about the future.” This outcome marks a positive moment for the charity as it continues its programme of renewal, governance reform, and community-focused activity. The Trust remains committed to transparency, accountability, and delivering meaningful opportunities and support for residents across the Eldonian community. See the Liverpool Echo Article on this here. Ends

Dear Reader, Following our residents meeting held on 16 April 2026, the Board of Trustees have formally logged our objection to the above planning application which refers to the site of the former Our Lady of Reconciliation Primary School. For the purpose of transparency, the Board of Trustees wish to make public our letter of objection from our Secretary on behalf of the Eldonian Community Trust. We will continue to represent the voice of our community for the interest of our residents and future generations. Kind Regards, The Board of Trustees Eldonian Community Trust Limited

Photo: Kris D’Août The Eldonian Community Trust Limited wishes to address recent coverage by the Liverpool Echo concerning the former Trinity Primary School site at Eldon Place. We are grateful to the Liverpool Echo for reporting on this important matter. Issues relating to the use and disposal of community assets are of significant public interest, particularly where they concern land originally intended to benefit local residents. Responsible reporting plays an important role in ensuring transparency and accountability. As outlined in that coverage, a serious concern has been raised in relation to a 2017 transfer of the site. At a residents’ meeting held on 16 April 2026, a former trustee stated that a signature appearing on a transfer document—relating to the disposal of the land for a stated consideration of £1—was not hers. This is a matter which, if substantiated, may have significant legal implications. The current Board of Trustees was appointed in March 2025 and was not in office at the time of the events in question. However, the Trustees have a clear duty to review historic matters and to safeguard the assets of the charity. The Board is therefore actively reviewing the circumstances surrounding this transfer, alongside other historic disposals of land. We have contacted the individual concerned and have offered appropriate support, including facilitating access to independent legal advice should she wish to formalise her position. It is appropriate that any such allegation is considered by the relevant authorities, including the Charity Commission for England and Wales, which is currently conducting a statutory inquiry into the charity. Photo: Kris D’Août In light of the seriousness of these matters, the Trust has maintained its position that it would be inappropriate for any planning determination to be made in respect of the site until the inquiry has concluded and the relevant facts have been properly established. Set out below is a formal statement on behalf of the Chair of the charity: Statement on behalf of Lord Chris Rennard, Chair of Eldonian Community Trust Limited “The allegations reported in relation to the 2017 transfer of the former Trinity Primary School site are extremely serious. Any suggestion that a signature on a legal document may not be genuine goes to the heart of the integrity of that transaction and, if proven, could have significant legal consequences. The current Board of Trustees, appointed in 2025, was not in office at the time of these events. However, we have a clear duty to investigate past matters thoroughly, to support any individual raising concerns, and to ensure that the interests of the charity and the community it serves are properly protected. We have reached out to Ms Harrison and have offered the charity’s full support, including facilitating independent legal assistance should she wish to provide a formal affidavit. It is right that any such allegation is considered by the appropriate authorities, including the Charity Commission, so that the facts can be properly established. More broadly, the Trustees are actively reviewing historic disposals of charity land, including the circumstances surrounding the 2017 transfer. We will pursue all appropriate legal avenues where there is evidence that charitable assets may have been improperly transferred or dealt with. Given the seriousness of these issues, and the ongoing statutory inquiry by the Charity Commission, we maintain our position that no planning determination should be made in respect of this site until these matters have been fully investigated and resolved. Our priority remains the protection of community assets and the restoration of the founding principles of the Eldonian Village for the benefit of local residents, both now and for future generations.” The Trustees remain committed to acting in accordance with their legal duties, to transparency and accountability, and to ensuring that community assets are protected for the benefit of the Eldonian community. Further updates will be provided as appropriate.” See the article here

Rhys Jones in today's Liv Post Article Today, The Post published a feature exploring the history of the Eldonian Village and the events of recent years. The story highlights the strength and determination shown by members of the local community, including our secretary and trainee priest, Rhys Jones, who became involved after supporting residents who wished to better understand governance matters affecting the village. What has emerged over time is a powerful example of community engagement, residents asking questions, seeking clarity, and working constructively to ensure that the future of the village reflects its founding values. Following concerns raised within the community, the Charity Commission for England and Wales opened a statutory inquiry. A new board of trustees was subsequently appointed to strengthen governance and ensure the organisation operates transparently and in accordance with its charitable objectives. Today, the Eldonian Community Trust is focused entirely on its mission: serving the residents of the Eldonian Village and delivering meaningful community activities that support children, families, and older residents alike. Lord Chris Rennard MBE, Chair of the Eldonian Community Trust, said: “Rhys Jones has shown extraordinary determination, persistence, and courage in bringing these issues into the open. His integrity has shone out every step of the way as he has been revealing the facts that others wanted to keep quiet. Only through his efforts are we now ensuring that the concerns of residents are being heard properly. A community has been deprived of the assets given to it by the Archdiocese and by public bodies. We want to restore hope. The Eldonian Village has a long and proud history as a community built by its residents. The priority now for the trustees is to ensure that the charity moves forward with strong governance and a renewed focus on serving the people of the village.” Rhys Jones, Secretary to the Board of Trustees said: “This story was never about me. It began because people in the Eldonian Village — many of whom I have known all my life — were worried about their community and wanted answers. I simply tried to help find those answers. People like Maureen Price showed enormous courage in speaking up, and there were many others who supported the effort quietly behind the scenes and have remained in the shadows. Their determination to protect the community they built is what really made the difference. What matters now is that the Eldonian Community Trust can move forward and focus again on supporting the residents it was created to serve.” Trustees Brian Jones, William Little and Maureen Price with a Resident Read Today's Article Here!

A fantastic week of football, partnership and community pride. Photo: Kris D’Août This half term, the Eldonian Community Trust was proud to host a vibrant and energetic football tournament that brought young people together from across the estate. The pitches were alive with excitement from the very first game, with players showing determination, skill and a genuine love for the sport. The tournament was professionally facilitated by Forward Thinking Coaching, whose coaches delivered high-quality sessions throughout the week. Their structure, enthusiasm and commitment ensured that every child was supported, challenged and encouraged to give their best. The standard of coaching was clear to see in the confidence and development of the players as the week progressed. We were also delighted to work alongside the Scotland Road & Junior District Football League, whose continued support of grassroots football plays a vital role in creating opportunities for young people locally. Their involvement helped make the tournament both competitive and inclusive, reflecting the best of community football. Photo: Kris D’Août Special thanks must also go to Custy's FC and No 9 FC for their participation and encouragement, and to Liverpool City Council for their support in helping make the event possible. Partnerships like these demonstrate what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared commitment to young people. Beyond the goals and results, what stood out most was the atmosphere. Players encouraged one another, celebrated together and showed real respect on and off the pitch. For many of the children, this was more than just a tournament — it was a chance to build confidence, form new friendships and be part of something positive during the school break. At the Eldonian Community Trust, we believe that investing in youth sport strengthens the whole community. This half term tournament is just one example of how collaboration, structure and opportunity can make a lasting difference. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to create safe, inspiring spaces for our young people to thrive. Photo: Kris D’Août

Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian) The Board of Trustees today announces that His Honour Judge Mark Halliwell has issued a judgment in response to Anthony McGann’s application for permission to appeal an earlier decision of the High Court, in which the winding-up petition he presented against the Charity was dismissed. Judge Halliwell ruled: “Permission to appeal is refused on the basis that an appeal would have no real prospect of success and there is no other reason, compelling or otherwise, as to why such an appeal should be heard.” The issue of costs was also addressed. The Charity, through its barrister, Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, made submissions as to why Mr McGann should be ordered to pay the Charity’s legal costs. Judge Halliwell ruled: “Mr McGann must pay the Company’s costs summarily assessed on the indemnity basis in the sum of £7,852 plus VAT if the Company is unregistered for VAT. He must also pay the Charity Commission’s costs summarily assessed on the indemnity basis in the sum of £1,586.25. He must make a payment to the Foundation in the sum of £20,325. Subject to any immediate submissions to the contrary, payment must be made within 14 days.” The Trustees wish to thank all those who have supported the Charity since their appointment in March 2025. The Charity has now successfully defended itself in the High Court, and the Trustees are turning their attention to the future, focused on protecting and advancing the interests of those for whom the Charity exists. The Charity can also provide an update on a separate claim brought by Shaun Smith Enterprises Ltd in the County Court at Liverpool. The Company issued a claim alleging that the Charity had agreed to a consultancy arrangement, which purportedly resulted in a debt of £25,500. Following directions from the County Court, the Charity submitted a witness statement setting out its position in relation to the alleged debt. Shortly thereafter, Shaun Smith Enterprises Ltd contacted the Charity, and the claim was subsequently discontinued. As a result, the Charity has no outstanding claims to defend and has successfully concluded its High Court proceedings. Maureen Price, Vice Chair of the Charity, said: “This is a real achievement for a Charity which, in March 2025, had just £42 in a frozen bank account. Without the steadfast support of those who stood by us, the Charity may no longer exist. We wish to place particular emphasis on, and express our sincere thanks to, Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, who represented the Charity with exceptional skill, commitment, and courage.” Lord Christopher Rennard MBE, Chair of the Charity, added: “This judgment reflects the determination and hard work of everyone involved in securing the Charity’s future. Our focus now turns to growth and renewal. We are excited about what lies ahead and confident in what we can achieve.”

Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian) The Eldonian Community Trust acknowledges the recent announcement by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) that it has closed its Regulatory Compliance case into the Eldonian Community Based Housing Association (ECBHA). While we respect the Regulator’s role, the Charity does not support the decision to close the case at this time. For several years, residents of Eldonian Village have raised serious concerns about governance, accountability, and the absence of an effective, independent board structure to oversee decisions affecting their homes and community. These concerns remain unresolved, and many residents feel they have not yet been given the transparency and reassurance they deserve. As the community’s charitable body, we believe that Eldonian residents should have clear routes to challenge decisions, seek explanations, and have confidence that proper oversight is being applied to organisations operating in their name. Lord Chris Rennard MBE, Chair of the Eldonian Community Trust, has therefore raised parliamentary questions to the Government regarding resident protections and the mechanisms available to challenge regulatory decisions. He said: “Residents must be able to trust the governance of the organisations that serve them. When long-standing concerns remain unaddressed, it is vital that people feel they have the right and the means to challenge decisions that affect their lives. Confidence in oversight matters. That is why I have asked the Government to reflect on whether the current system gives residents the protections they need.” Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian) The Eldonian Community Trust will continue to stand with local residents in seeking transparency, robust governance, and accountable leadership in all organisations operating in Eldonian Village. We remain committed to supporting residents and ensuring their voices are central in any process that affects their community. If you are an Eldonian resident seeking advice or support, please contact us directly through our website or at our regular community drop-ins.

This month marked an important milestone for our community. The Guardian  has today published a feature exploring the story of how the Eldonian Community Trust emerged from a difficult period and secured its future. The piece follows the journey from uncertainty to renewed purpose, and highlights the people who helped guide the charity through a critical moment. Trustees Maureen Price, Brian Jones and William Little being photographed in Eldonian Village as part of The Guardian’s coverage of the Trust. When a winding-up petition was brought before the High Court earlier this year, the Trust faced the real possibility of closure. With limited resources and a frozen bank account, the odds were not in our favour. Yet, with the support of our community, volunteers, and expert advisers working pro bono, the Trust was able to defend itself — and continue its work for Eldonian Village and Vauxhall. The Guardian article captures more than a legal outcome. It reflects the resilience of a neighbourhood determined not to see its hard-won institutions disappear; and the belief that public-spirited organisations, under proper stewardship, can still prosper. “Tremendous admiration is due to everyone who has shown bravery, skill and persistence in revealing the serious wrongdoing done to this Liverpool community. A page was turned this year, and the new Trustees are all grateful to those who have researched the facts to show what has been going on. The wrong community was chosen if it was thought that it would lie down and accept having been unfairly stripped of its assets. The investigative journalism involved shows how the media can be at its best in serving the public, and others should follow this example. I fear this may not be an isolated example concerning charity assets. Well done to the Liverpool Post and to The Guardian.” Lord Christopher Rennard MBE, Chair of Trustees Today, the Eldonian Community Trust is rebuilding. A new Board is in place; governance has been strengthened; and plans are being developed to restore services and re-establish activities for residents of all ages. The Trust is working constructively with regulators, partners, and donors as it looks to the future. We are grateful to everyone who has supported us, from those who quietly offered a message of encouragement, to the volunteers who gave their time, to the advisers who stepped in when we needed them most. We pay particular thanks to Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens who represented the Charity pro bono . Without his unwavering commitment to our future, there was a real possibility that the Charity would not be here today. The Guardian article tells part of this story. The next chapter is ours to write — together. 🔗 Read The Guardian article here

Trustees: Brian Jones, Maureen Price and Susan Peters pictured in an Article by The Post. Photo: Kris D’Août The Eldonian Community Trust notes today’s article published by The Liverpool Post  regarding recent developments within the Charity and the wider Eldonian community. We appreciate the public interest in understanding the progress made since the appointment of a wholly new Board of Trustees earlier this year. Our Chair, Lord Chris Rennard, has issued the following statement: “Great credit is due to the bravery and determination of this community to fight back and turn a new page in its history. A wholly new team of Trustees was elected at an AGM in March that was organised by the Charity Commission. We are determined to restore hope and look to the future.” Trustees walk together under umbrellas on a rainy day, as featured in The Post article. Photo: Kris D’Août Since the AGM in March 2025—held under the oversight of the Charity Commission—the new Trustees have focused on stabilising governance, strengthening transparency, and rebuilding the Charity’s internal structures. This has included sustained engagement with regulators and legal advisers, renewed efforts to safeguard community assets, the re-establishment of proper financial and governance systems, and meaningful outreach to residents through meetings and community events. These steps form part of a wider programme designed to restore confidence, ensure accountability, and reinforce the Charity’s long-standing place at the heart of the Eldonian community. The Trust welcomes fair and accurate reporting about its work. Public dialogue and accountability play an important role in the renewal of any charity, particularly one with such a deep historical connection to its community. For ongoing updates about our programmes, governance reforms, and community initiatives, please continue to follow the Eldonian Community Trust through our official channels. A Link to today's article can be accessed here:

Wednesday, 12 November 2025 Dear Residents, We are aware that the Eldonian Community Based Housing Association (ECBHA) has stated its intention to obtain vacant possession of the Eldonian Village Hall on 15 November 2025 from Eldonian Leisure Ltd, which was formerly a wholly owned subsidiary of the Charity. The Eldonian Community Trust is in active communication with the Regulator of Social Housing, the Charity Commission, and Liverpool City Council regarding this matter. We are seeking to ensure that the position is fully understood and that the community’s charitable interests are properly protected. If you have any concerns or information you wish to share, please feel free to contact one of the Trustees directly, or email us at secretary@eldonian.org . Any concerns raised can be treated in confidence if requested. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Eldonian Community Trust Limited

Sunday 2nd November 2025 This is an important update on the Winding-Up Petition brought against the Charity by Mr Anthony Edward McGann.   The Trustees are pleased to report that on Friday (31 October 2025), the petition to wind up the charity was dismissed by His Honour Judge Halliwell. The judgement was delivered in open court.  It follows the hearing held in the High Court of Justice (Manchester Business and Property Court) last month on 14th October.   The petition has now been formally dismissed. The Trustees have been advised that the Charity is entitled to seek recovery of its legal costs in relation to this. Until now, the winding up petition has restricted the day to day functioning of the Charity.  The petition seeking to wind up the charity was filed in December 2024.   The Trustees are grateful for the support and patience shown by residents during this difficult period and will now focus on the continued renewal of community services and facilities. The new Trustees for the Charity were appointed in March this year following the intervention of the Charity Commission which had appointed Interim Managers to convene an AGM and elect them.   Since then, the new Trustees have been in very active discussion with the Charity Commission. The Commission had launched a “Statutory Inquiry” into the affairs of the Eldonian Community Trust Limited on 21st August 2024.  This Statutory Investigation is continuing. Accounts have now also been filed with Companies House.   As we look again to the future, and what can now be done, the Trustees are holding an information evening for residents. If you are able to attend, please do. 📅  Date:  Friday, 14 November 2025 🕖  Time:  7:00 p.m. 📍  Venue:  Our Lady of Reconciliation de la Salette Church, Eldon Street Kind Regards, The Board of Trustees Eldonian Community Trust Limited

Friday, 3 October 2025 Eldonian Community Trust Limited (the “Charity”) is presently the subject of winding-up proceedings in the High Court of Justice, Manchester Business and Property Court. The matter has been listed for hearing on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, at 10:00 a.m. At that hearing, the Charity will be represented in person by Mr Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, London. For the avoidance of doubt, no determination has yet been made by the Court. The Trustees will convene a residents’ update meeting following judgment to provide accurate information as to the outcome. The case details are as follows: High Court of Justice of England and Wales Business and Property Courts Manchester District Registry Case Title: Anthony Edward McGann v Eldonian Community Trust Limited Date and Time: Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 10:00 a.m. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Eldonian Community Trust Limited Disclaimer: This notice is provided strictly for general information purposes. It does not constitute, and must not be relied upon as, legal, professional, or financial advice. No responsibility or liability is accepted by the Charity or its Trustees for any reliance placed upon this notice by any third party. For the avoidance of doubt, nothing in this notice shall be taken as a waiver of, or prejudice to, any rights or remedies available to the Charity or its Trustees, all of which are expressly reserved.