The National Civic Trust is an independent charity founded by Lord Duncan Sandys in 1957. Its patron is H.R.H. The Prince of Wales. The Malmesbury Civic Trust was formed in 1963 and is affiliated to the national body which gives it access to information and advice relevant to Heritage, Conservation and Planning concerns. The Trust actively promotes high standards of design and planning as well as the conservation of building of historical interest. It holds a watching brief, in the monitoring and voicing of local concerns to the relevant statutory bodies. It is also interested in environmental conservation and encourages research and publications as well as organising lectures and visits both for its members and for visiting historical or archaeological groups.