Background:

The workhouse was a poor law institution. Its purpose was to provide a home and work for the poor local people who had nowhere to live. Gressenhall near Dereham was constructed in 1776 and took one year to open.

In 1894, the British Medical Journal set up a "commission" to investigate conditions in provincial workhouses and their infirmaries. Following a visit to the Gressenhall establishment, the commission's report noted an inconvenient separation of the female and male infirmaries, with conditions in the latter described as "squalid" and "dreary, comfortless, and crowded". There were no proper baths or running water. The sole nurse was untrained and assisted by a pauper "wardsman" who, at night, provided the only form of nursing attendance.

In 1930, the workhouse became Gressenhall Institution. After the Second World War it provided accommodation for the elderly until 1974. The former casual wards were also used to provide emergency accommodation to homeless families. In 1976, the buildings became a rural life museum now known as Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse: Museum of Norfolk Life.

This was a photoshoot organised by the U3A DPG. Both the farm and the Workhouse provided ample photo opportunities, but I was struck by the austerity and contrasts of the workhouse itself.

I hope my pics reflect this . . .

PORTFOLIO develops different themes and ideas - your feedback will be most welcome.

Stories of a devasting fire in Devon, the Wells 'Lifeboat Horse' and a visit to London's 'Winter Wonderland' are the first three. Watch out for more to come . . .

Watch this space for further news . . .