The Ashcombe Estate has a proud and longstanding tradition of charitable work. Brigadier Sir Ralph Rayner and Lady Elizabeth Rayner established many of the village’s early fundraising events and were instrumental in creating the Village
Hall—still the heart of community life and charitable activity today. This spirit of giving has been carried forward by each successive generation.
At the centre of this effort is the Village Club, run entirely by a dedicated committee of local volunteers. Despite its small membership, the Club has raised and distributed over £100,000 in the past decade—an extraordinary achievement
that reflects the strength and generosity of the community.
The estate has also hosted a number of larger fundraising initiatives over the years. The much-loved Ashcombe Scuffle, a 4x4 off-road charity event, ran for many years and raised approximately £35,000 towards the repair and preservation
of the Grade I listed Ashcombe Parish Church, helping to secure its future for generations to come.
Charity Fun Rides remain a popular occasional event, attracting hundreds of riders and horses to enjoy a scenic route across the estate’s fields, tracks, and woodland.
Today, the Estate and Village Club continue to support a range of local causes, as well as national organisations such as The Addington Fund, the farmers’ charity. One of the highlights of the calendar is the annual Farmhouse Breakfast
each March—an opportunity to come together, support a good cause, and celebrate rural life.
