The donation of a centuries-old historical document could become a ‘key event’ in the 500-year history of a Suffolk landmark.

The Seckford Foundation, based in Woodbridge, was presented with the original manuscript containing details of the trust’s history and some early residents of the town’s 16th century almshouses.

The book, entitled The Statutes and Ordinances for the Government of the Almshouses in Woodbridge, was published in 1792 by Robert Loder.

It lists the occupations and ages of 13 local ‘poor men’ who lived at the Seckford Almshouses a century after the building was opened by founder and benefactor Thomas Seckford.

Local resident and history enthusiast, James Joss, who was given the book by a friend, said: “I am donating it to the Seckford Foundation because I think it is a piece of history that should be enjoyed by everyone.”

The almshouses originally comprised seven two-storey flats but now includes 28 very sheltered flats and residential care bedrooms for 19 people. An expansion is currently underway, with six new residential care bedrooms set to open in June.

Sarah Kopferschmitt, current head of care, said: “It’s a very generous gift from James and we are all so delighted that he has donated this fascinating document to us.

“There have been many key events in the history of the almshouses over the past 500 years and we hope that, 500 years in the future, people will look back at this donation from James as one of those key events.”

Graham Watson, Seckford Foundation director, said the donation would add to the already rich history of the Seckford Almshouses.