The purpose of a Trust arrangement can best be illustrated by a brief look at the history behind the concept. The origin of Trusts stretches back to the Middle Ages when English crusading noblemen would leave their possessions in the hands of 'Trustees' - trusted friends or senior members of the church that they felt able to rely on to protect their worldly goods. In the unfortunate event that the crusading knight failed to return, their assets would be dealt with by their 'Trustee' in accordance with their stated wishes.