A board in the north chapel (now the vestry) of the church in Upper Dean reads as follows: “Joseph Neale of London Esqr son of John Neale of nether Dean Esqr gave between twenty & five & twenty Pounds a year in lands for ye founding of A Charity School in this Parish Aug 27, 1702, where twenty poor Boyes, ten of them of Dean, five of Shelton, five of Swineshead, are to be taught Gratis. He Gave also several Books for ye use of ye Minister of this Place. He died at London Apr 23, 1710”.

The charity continues offering small one off awards annually to further education or contribute to outfits or enter a trade or occupation, provide books for a school library, exhibitions and bursaries. The Minister sadly no longer uses the books provided in 1702!!!