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2021-12-31-accounts

Trustees' Annual Report for theperiod
From Period start date To Period end date
01 01 2021 31 12 2021

Section A Reference and administration details Charity name ASTBURY MERE TRUST Other names charity is known by None Registered charity number (if any) 1007740 Charity's principal address Astbury Mere Country Park Sandy Lane, Congleton, Cheshire Postcode CW12 4AW

Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Trustee name Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
**year **
Name of person (or body) entitled
to appoint trustee (ifany)
Alison Cresswell Chair
Sarah Dean Secretary
Lorraine Mort Treasurer
Caroline Whiting
Gavin Wolfenden
John Whitehead
Jeannie Silk
Richard Mort
Margaret Gartside
Peter Speed
Graham Cresswell
Suzie Akers Smith Appt 09.03.21
PhilipHowell Appt 07.12.21

Names of the trustees for the charity, if any, (for example, any custodian trustees)

Name Dates acted if not for whole year

Section B Structure, governance and management

Description of the charity’s trusts

Memorandum of Association Type of governing document (eg. trust deed, constitution) A company limited by guarantee and not having a share capital How the charity is constituted (eg. trust, association, company) Voting of current Trustees Trustee selection methods

(eg. appointed by, elected by)

Additional governance issues (Optional information)

You may choose to include additional information, where relevant, about:

Section C Objectives and activities

Summary of the objects of the charity set out in its governing document

To provide for the benefit of the inhabitants of Congleton and district a managed and maintained country park at Astbury Mere in perpetuity for recreation or other leisure time occupation with the object of improving life for the said inhabitants.

Summary of the main
activities undertaken for the
public benefit in relation to
these objects (include within
this section the statutory
declaration that trustees have
had regard to the guidance
issued by the Charity
Commission on public
benefit)
The trustees confirm that the main activities undertaken during the
reporting period have been in accordance with the Charity Commission’s
guidance on public benefit.
The main activities undertaken by the trust were land management
operations to maintain and improve the Country Park for the benefit and
enjoyment of the public. The activities were arranged through our
Ranger Service and most involved volunteer work either in full or in part.
The key activities for 2021 were:
The management plan for the park 2017-2022 was completed and this
will be guiding the overall site management works over the next five
years.
Annual grounds maintenance tasks for the year focused upon the
seasonal cutting back of path side vegetation, trimming of the car park
shrub beds and grass cutting within the community orchard. Occasional
storm conditions during the summer meant that additional attention had
to be given to keeping path side drains as clear as possible. Winter tasks
included trimming of the boundary hedge adjacent to the Anglers’ land,
shrub bed trimming and path drainage works. Work was started to re-lay
the boundary hedge between Astbury Street and Banky Fields. The
sucker tree growth that had emerged over recent years in the meadows
was managed through regular seasonal amenity cuts. Both the Spring
and Summer wildflower meadows in the Community Wildlife Area had
their annual cut.
Works were completed to the resurfacing of the main lakeside path plus
adjoining link paths. We also installed a new litter bin and three new
seats in the park, funded by public donations.
Clearance around the trees in the MMW was also completed and pruning
work completed to the apple and fruit trees within the Community
Orchard. Elsewhere we continued to respond to neighbours’ requests to
thin / remove trees adjacent to their property.

Additional details of objectives and activities (Optional information)

We do not have any permanent or semi-permanent volunteers.

You may choose to include further statements, where relevant, about:

Volunteers are sought for particular jobs or projects as needed. Our primary source is from those who have volunteered in the past; volunteers come from many sources including individuals, organised groups such as the Congleton Conservation Volunteers and businesses looking for activities to support their social responsibility programmes.

Section D- Achievements and Performance

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year

The visitor count undertaken through May suggested that annual visitor numbers are now in excess of 255,000, with anecdotal evidence that the park remains busy both during the week and over the cooler winter months. Our regular retirees continued to volunteer throughout the year and we were also supported by Congleton District Conservation Volunteers and a group from Astra Zeneca undertaking a corporate away day organised by Employee Volunteering. Our regular birdwatchers continued to update the wildlife board at the visitor centre and to maintain the popular ‘Astbury Mere Wildlife blog’. The Ranger led a ‘People and Wildlife’ guided walk in September as part of the Congleton Climate Festival, introducing participants to an understanding of the complex history and varied management of the site. Groups utilising the park during the year included Parkrun, Pram Fit, an artisan market, Congleton Green’s Plant Swop and The Dogfather’s dog training classes. Buglawton Beaver Scouts enjoyed an evening pond dipping and bug hunting in the park. We also hosted a number of sponsored charity walks, the judges from the North West in Bloom competition and the park was the venue for the launch of the new Beartown Rickshaw initiative. Users of the Community Room over the year included Congleton Writers Forum and the U3A’s Welsh Improver, Improve Your Spanish and Flower Arranging classes.

Section E Financial review

Brief statement of the charity’s policy on reserves

Details of any funds materially None in deficit

Further financial review details (Optional information)

You may choose to include additional information, where While the income derived from the Trust’s investments only represents relevant about: 25-30% of the total income it is necessary to ensure that the reserves are  the charity’s principal kept as safe as possible whilst generating the best level of return. The investment objective is to generate a return bettering inflation over the sources of funds (including long term, after expenses. This should allow the Trust to at least any fundraising); maintain the value of the investment, whilst the income from that  how expenditure has investment is used to contribute to the running cost of managing and supported the key objectives maintaining the park.

All investments should produce a return in line with the Trust’s stated investment objectives agreed by the Trustees and where practical ensuring that those funds are invested ethically.

Section F Other optional information

Section G Declaration

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signature(s)

Full name(s) Sarah Dean

Position (eg Secretary, Chair,
etc)
Date

Secretary
09.21.22
09.21.22

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 02331405 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1007740

Report of the Trustees and

Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

for

Astbury Mere Trust

Hammond McNulty LLP Bank House Market Square Congleton Cheshire CW12 1ET

Astbury Mere Trust

Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

Page
Report of the Trustees 1 to 2
Independent Examiner's Report 3
Statement of Financial Activities 4
Balance Sheet 5 to 6
Notes to the Financial Statements 7 to 14
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 15 to 16

Astbury Mere Trust

Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st December 2021. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Objectives and aims

The main purpose of the charity is to manage and maintain the country park at Astbury Mere, Congleton.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered Company number

02331405 (England and Wales)

Registered Charity number

1007740

Registered office

Trustee Office, Astbury Mere Country Park Sandy Lane, Congleton Chehsire CW12 4AW

Trustees

Mrs C J Whiting Mrs J Silk (resigned 8/3/2022) G Wolfenden J Whitehead Mrs S Dean A Cresswell G F Cresswell M A F Gartside Cllr L I Mort R B Mort Cllr S M Akers Smith (appointed 9/3/2021) P Speed P Howell (appointed 7/12/2021)

Company Secretary

Mrs S Dean

Independent Examiner

Hammond McNulty LLP Bank House Market Square Congleton Cheshire CW12 1ET

Approved by order of the board of trustees on 23rd September 2022 and signed on its behalf by:

Page 1

Astbury Mere Trust

Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

A Cresswell - Trustee

Page 2

Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Astbury Mere Trust

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Astbury Mere Trust ('the Company')

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31st December 2021.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Amanda Grint Hammond McNulty LLP Bank House Market Square Congleton Cheshire CW12 1ET

23rd September 2022

Page 3

Astbury Mere Trust

Statement of Financial Activities

for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

Unrestricted
fund
Notes
£
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
40,617
Other trading activities
2
50,055
Investment income
3
28,124
Total
118,796
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
4
2,726
Charitable activities
Country park maintenance & management
103,748
Total
106,474
Net gains/(losses) on investments
20,769
NET INCOME
33,091
Transfers between funds
14
460
Net movement in funds
33,551
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
443,578
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
477,129
Restricted
funds
£
6,299
-
-
6,299
460
2,682
3,142
-
3,157
(460)
2,697
10,940
13,637
31/12/21
31/12/20
Total
Total
funds
funds
£
£
46,916
32,074
50,055
37,831
28,124
17,620
125,095
87,525
3,186
2,207
106,430
62,016
109,616
64,223
20,769
(2,490)
36,248
20,812
-
-
36,248
20,812
454,518
433,706
490,766
454,518

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 4

Astbury Mere Trust

Balance Sheet 31st December 2021

Unrestricted
fund
Notes
£
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
9
206,646
Investments
10
236,689
443,335
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks
11
400
Debtors
12
6,207
Cash at bank and in hand
48,692
55,299
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
13
(21,505)
NET CURRENT ASSETS
33,794
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
477,129
NET ASSETS
477,129
FUNDS
14
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
13,637
13,637
-
13,637
13,637
13,637
31/12/21
Total
funds
£
206,646
236,689
443,335
400
6,207
62,329
68,936
(21,505)
47,431
490,766
490,766
477,129
13,637
490,766
31/12/20
Total
funds
£
210,486
215,208
425,694
872
6,286
31,271
38,429
(9,605)
28,824
454,518
454,518
443,578
10,940
454,518

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31st December 2021.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31st December 2021 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 5

continued...

Astbury Mere Trust

Balance Sheet - continued 31st December 2021

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 23rd September 2022 and were signed on its behalf by:

A Cresswell - Trustee

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 6

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of investments which are included at market value.

The trustees have considered the potential impact of COVID-19 on the principal activities of the charity and they believe that they have sufficient resources in place to operate for the foreseeable future.They believe there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue.Thus, they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Tangible fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

Freehold property - 2% on reducing balance and not provided on land Plant and machinery - 10% on reducing balance Fixtures and fittings - 10% on reducing balance Computer equipment - 10% on reducing balance

Stocks

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

Valuation of investments

Investments are included at their market values ruling at 31st December 2021. The valuation is based on the mid-market prices from the appropriate Stock Exchange, market makers or from the relevant fund manager.

continued...

Page 7

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

2. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES

2. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Room Hire 2,690 4,006
Catering Concession 23,953 8,882
Car Parking 23,412 24,943
50,055 37,831
3. INVESTMENT INCOME
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Rents received 22,467 10,750
Listed Investment Income 5,588 6,807
Deposit account interest 69 63
28,124 17,620
4. RAISING FUNDS
Other trading activities
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Opening stock 872 1,030
Purchases 460 -
Closing stock (400) (872)
932 158
Investment management costs
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Portfolio management 2,254 2,049
Aggregate amounts 3,186 2,207
5. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Depreciation - owned assets 3,840 4,227
Deficit on disposal of fixed assets - 3,637

continued...

Page 8

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31st December 2021 nor for the year ended 31st December 2020.

Trustees' expenses

Trustee expenses paid in the year totalled £159 (£349 2020) to two trustees as follows, repairs £60 to one trustee (2020 £47 to one trustee), computer expenses £16 to one trustee (2020 £0), general expenses to one trustee £13 (2020 £13 to one trustee) and Paypal test £70 to one trustee.

7. STAFF COSTS

The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:

31/12/21 31/12/20
Country park maintenance & management 1 1
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Unrestricted Restricted Total
fund funds funds
£ £ £
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies 14,574 17,500 32,074
Other trading activities 37,831 - 37,831
Investment income 17,620 - 17,620
Total 70,025 17,500 87,525
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds 2,207 - 2,207
Charitable activities
Country park maintenance & management 62,016 - 62,016
Total 64,223 - 64,223
Net gains/(losses) on investments (2,490) - (2,490)
NET INCOME 3,312 17,500 20,812
Transfers between funds 42,560 (42,560) -
Net movement in funds 45,872 (25,060) 20,812
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward 397,706 36,000 433,706
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 443,578 10,940 454,518

8. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

continued...

Page 9

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COST
At 1st January 2021 and
31st December 2021
DEPRECIATION
At 1st January 2021
Charge for year
At 31st December 2021
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31st December 2021
At 31st December 2020
Freehold
property
£
210,675
14,330
2,427
16,757
193,918
Plant and
machinery
£
26,259
14,953
1,130
16,083
10,176
Fixtures
and
fittings
£
4,885
3,884
100
3,984
901
Computer
equipment
£
4,879
3,045
183
3,228
1,651
Totals
£
246,698
36,212
3,840
40,052
206,646
196,345 11,306 1,001 1,834 210,486

10. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS

FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
Listed
investments
£
MARKET VALUE
At 1st January 2021 215,208
Additions 34,958
Disposals (34,246)
Net realised gains/(losses) 1,116
Net unrealised gains/(losses) 19,653
At 31st December 2021 236,689
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31st December 2021 236,689
At 31st December 2020 215,208

The investments are analysed as follows:

2021 2020 UK 58% 63% Outside the UK 42% 37%

continued...

Page 10

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

11. STOCKS

Stocks
12.
DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Trade debtors
Other debtors
VAT
Prepayments
13.
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Trade creditors
Social security and other taxes
VAT
Other creditors
Accrued expenses
14.
MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
movement
At 1/1/21
in funds
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
443,578
33,091
Restricted funds
Mrs J Clowes
460
-
Mrs D Dillion
480
-
Medium Term Reserve
10,000
-
Co-op Community Fund
-
1,857
Footpath Resurfacing
-
1,300
10,940
3,157
TOTAL FUNDS
454,518
36,248
31/12/21
£
400
31/12/21
£
69
83
-
6,055
6,207
31/12/21
£
3,470
81
1,055
51
16,848
21,505
Transfers
between
funds
£
460
(460)
-
-
-
-
(460)
-
31/12/20
£
31/12/20
£
31/12/20
£
872
31/12/20
£
-
-
642
5,644
6,286
31/12/20
£
2,931
-
-
-
6,674
9,605
At
31/12/21
£
477,129
-
480
10,000
1,857
1,300
13,637
490,766

continued...

Page 11

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Co-op Community Fund
Footpath Resurfacing
TOTAL FUNDS
Incoming
resources
£
118,796
1,989
4,310
6,299
125,095
Resources
expended
£
(106,474)
(132)
(3,010)
(3,142)
(109,616)
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
20,769
33,091
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
3,157
20,769
36,248
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
20,769
33,091
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
3,157
20,769
36,248
3,157
36,248

Comparatives for movement in funds

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Mrs J Clowes
Mrs D Dillion
Medium Term Reserve
Sailing Centre Phase 3
TOTAL FUNDS
At 1/1/20
£
397,706
460
480
34,000
1,060
36,000
433,706
Net
movement
in funds
£
3,312
-
-
-
17,500
17,500
20,812
Transfers
between
funds
£
42,560
-
-
(24,000)
(18,560)
(42,560)
-
At
31/12/20
£
443,578
460
480
10,000
-
10,940
454,518

Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Gains and Movement
resources expended losses in funds
£ £ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 70,025 (64,223) (2,490) 3,312
Restricted funds
Sailing Centre Phase 3 17,500 - - 17,500
TOTAL FUNDS 87,525 (64,223) (2,490) 20,812

continued...

Page 12

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Mrs J Clowes
Mrs D Dillion
Medium Term Reserve
Sailing Centre Phase 3
Co-op Community Fund
Footpath Resurfacing
TOTAL FUNDS
At 1/1/20
£
397,706
460
480
34,000
1,060
-
-
36,000
433,706
Net
movement
in funds
£
36,403
-
-
-
17,500
1,857
1,300
20,657
57,060
Transfers
between
funds
£
43,020
(460)
-
(24,000)
(18,560)
-
-
(43,020)
-
At
31/12/21
£
477,129
-
480
10,000
-
1,857
1,300
13,637
490,766

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Sailing Centre Phase 3
Co-op Community Fund
Footpath Resurfacing
TOTAL FUNDS
Incoming
resources
£
188,821
17,500
1,989
4,310
23,799
212,620
Resources
expended
£
(170,697)
-
(132)
(3,010)
(3,142)
(173,839)
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
18,279
36,403
-
17,500
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
20,657
18,279
57,060
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
18,279
36,403
-
17,500
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
20,657
18,279
57,060
20,657
57,060

15. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

During the year there were the following related party transactions:

A donation of £500 towards the footpath project was received from Glass & Stainless Ltd. J Whitehead is a director of Glass & Stainless Ltd.

G Wolfenden who is a trustee, processed purchases totalling £70 to test whether the Paypal QR code system was working, the sum of £70 was repaid in full to G Wolfenden during the year.

continued...

Page 13

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

16. COVID-19

During the year, the UK continued to be impacted by the outbreak of COVID-19. In order to manage the spread of the virus the Government has imposed significant restrictions on the movement of people and the ability of businesses to continue to trade. The Trustees acknowledge the increasing risk from COVID-19 and have sought to mitigate their risk by carrying out a thorough review as discussed below:

Government assistance

The charity has taken advantage of the government grants.

Page 14

Astbury Mere Trust

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Donations and legacies
Grants & Donations 7,326 21,488
Gift aid 449 586
Government Grants 8,373 10,000
Pathworks Project Grant & Donations 29,120 -
Tree Works Income 1,648 -
46,916 32,074
Other trading activities
Room Hire 2,690 4,006
Catering Concession 23,953 8,882
Car Parking 23,412 24,943
50,055 37,831
Investment income
Rents received 22,467 10,750
Listed Investment Income 5,588 6,807
Deposit account interest 69 63
28,124 17,620
Total incoming resources 125,095 87,525
EXPENDITURE
Other trading activities
Opening stock 872 1,030
Purchases 460 -
Closing stock (400) (872)
932 158
Investment management costs
Portfolio management 2,254 2,049
Charitable activities
Wages 10,652 7,943
Pensions 115 -
Rates and water 336 1,358
Insurance 5,408 2,328
Light and heat 4,060 2,948
Telephone 310 284
Postage and stationery 359 406
Sundries 1,549 1,873
Carried forward 22,789 17,140

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 15

Astbury Mere Trust

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities
for the Year Ended 31st December 2021
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Charitable activities
Brought forward 22,789 17,140
Repairs 10,776 13,929
Warden Costs 24,833 20,622
Computer costs 734 -
Footpath Project Costs 35,708 -
Tree Works 5,045 -
99,885 51,691
Support costs
Finance
Bank charges 428 337
Paypal fees 121 -
Donations - 50
549 387
Other
Freehold property 2,427 2,476
Plant and machinery 1,131 1,256
Fixtures and fittings 100 111
Computer equipment 183 382
Loss on sale of tangible fixed assets - 3,637
3,841 7,862
Governance costs
Accountancy fees 1,655 1,526
Legal & professional fees 500 550
2,155 2,076
Total resources expended 109,616 64,223
Net income before gains and losses 15,479 23,302
Realised recognised gains and losses
Realised gains/(losses) on fixed asset investments 1,116 (3,552)
Net income 16,595 19,750

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 16

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 02331405 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1007740

Report of the Trustees and

Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

for

Astbury Mere Trust

Hammond McNulty LLP Bank House Market Square Congleton Cheshire CW12 1ET

Astbury Mere Trust

Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

Page
Report of the Trustees 1 to 2
Independent Examiner's Report 3
Statement of Financial Activities 4
Balance Sheet 5 to 6
Notes to the Financial Statements 7 to 14
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 15 to 16

Astbury Mere Trust

Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st December 2021. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Objectives and aims

The main purpose of the charity is to manage and maintain the country park at Astbury Mere, Congleton.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered Company number

02331405 (England and Wales)

Registered Charity number

1007740

Registered office

Trustee Office, Astbury Mere Country Park Sandy Lane, Congleton Chehsire CW12 4AW

Trustees

Mrs C J Whiting Mrs J Silk (resigned 8/3/2022) G Wolfenden J Whitehead Mrs S Dean A Cresswell G F Cresswell M A F Gartside Cllr L I Mort R B Mort Cllr S M Akers Smith (appointed 9/3/2021) P Speed P Howell (appointed 7/12/2021)

Company Secretary

Mrs S Dean

Independent Examiner

Hammond McNulty LLP Bank House Market Square Congleton Cheshire CW12 1ET

Approved by order of the board of trustees on 23rd September 2022 and signed on its behalf by:

Page 1

Astbury Mere Trust

Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

A Cresswell - Trustee

Page 2

Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Astbury Mere Trust

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Astbury Mere Trust ('the Company')

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31st December 2021.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Amanda Grint Hammond McNulty LLP Bank House Market Square Congleton Cheshire CW12 1ET

23rd September 2022

Page 3

Astbury Mere Trust

Statement of Financial Activities

for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

Unrestricted
fund
Notes
£
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
40,617
Other trading activities
2
50,055
Investment income
3
28,124
Total
118,796
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
4
2,726
Charitable activities
Country park maintenance & management
103,748
Total
106,474
Net gains/(losses) on investments
20,769
NET INCOME
33,091
Transfers between funds
14
460
Net movement in funds
33,551
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
443,578
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
477,129
Restricted
funds
£
6,299
-
-
6,299
460
2,682
3,142
-
3,157
(460)
2,697
10,940
13,637
31/12/21
31/12/20
Total
Total
funds
funds
£
£
46,916
32,074
50,055
37,831
28,124
17,620
125,095
87,525
3,186
2,207
106,430
62,016
109,616
64,223
20,769
(2,490)
36,248
20,812
-
-
36,248
20,812
454,518
433,706
490,766
454,518

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 4

Astbury Mere Trust

Balance Sheet 31st December 2021

Unrestricted
fund
Notes
£
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
9
206,646
Investments
10
236,689
443,335
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks
11
400
Debtors
12
6,207
Cash at bank and in hand
48,692
55,299
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
13
(21,505)
NET CURRENT ASSETS
33,794
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
477,129
NET ASSETS
477,129
FUNDS
14
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
13,637
13,637
-
13,637
13,637
13,637
31/12/21
Total
funds
£
206,646
236,689
443,335
400
6,207
62,329
68,936
(21,505)
47,431
490,766
490,766
477,129
13,637
490,766
31/12/20
Total
funds
£
210,486
215,208
425,694
872
6,286
31,271
38,429
(9,605)
28,824
454,518
454,518
443,578
10,940
454,518

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31st December 2021.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31st December 2021 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 5

continued...

Astbury Mere Trust

Balance Sheet - continued 31st December 2021

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 23rd September 2022 and were signed on its behalf by:

A Cresswell - Trustee

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 6

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of investments which are included at market value.

The trustees have considered the potential impact of COVID-19 on the principal activities of the charity and they believe that they have sufficient resources in place to operate for the foreseeable future.They believe there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue.Thus, they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Tangible fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

Freehold property - 2% on reducing balance and not provided on land Plant and machinery - 10% on reducing balance Fixtures and fittings - 10% on reducing balance Computer equipment - 10% on reducing balance

Stocks

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

Valuation of investments

Investments are included at their market values ruling at 31st December 2021. The valuation is based on the mid-market prices from the appropriate Stock Exchange, market makers or from the relevant fund manager.

continued...

Page 7

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

2. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES

2. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Room Hire 2,690 4,006
Catering Concession 23,953 8,882
Car Parking 23,412 24,943
50,055 37,831
3. INVESTMENT INCOME
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Rents received 22,467 10,750
Listed Investment Income 5,588 6,807
Deposit account interest 69 63
28,124 17,620
4. RAISING FUNDS
Other trading activities
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Opening stock 872 1,030
Purchases 460 -
Closing stock (400) (872)
932 158
Investment management costs
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Portfolio management 2,254 2,049
Aggregate amounts 3,186 2,207
5. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Depreciation - owned assets 3,840 4,227
Deficit on disposal of fixed assets - 3,637

continued...

Page 8

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31st December 2021 nor for the year ended 31st December 2020.

Trustees' expenses

Trustee expenses paid in the year totalled £159 (£349 2020) to two trustees as follows, repairs £60 to one trustee (2020 £47 to one trustee), computer expenses £16 to one trustee (2020 £0), general expenses to one trustee £13 (2020 £13 to one trustee) and Paypal test £70 to one trustee.

7. STAFF COSTS

The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:

31/12/21 31/12/20
Country park maintenance & management 1 1
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Unrestricted Restricted Total
fund funds funds
£ £ £
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies 14,574 17,500 32,074
Other trading activities 37,831 - 37,831
Investment income 17,620 - 17,620
Total 70,025 17,500 87,525
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds 2,207 - 2,207
Charitable activities
Country park maintenance & management 62,016 - 62,016
Total 64,223 - 64,223
Net gains/(losses) on investments (2,490) - (2,490)
NET INCOME 3,312 17,500 20,812
Transfers between funds 42,560 (42,560) -
Net movement in funds 45,872 (25,060) 20,812
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward 397,706 36,000 433,706
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 443,578 10,940 454,518

8. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

continued...

Page 9

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COST
At 1st January 2021 and
31st December 2021
DEPRECIATION
At 1st January 2021
Charge for year
At 31st December 2021
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31st December 2021
At 31st December 2020
Freehold
property
£
210,675
14,330
2,427
16,757
193,918
Plant and
machinery
£
26,259
14,953
1,130
16,083
10,176
Fixtures
and
fittings
£
4,885
3,884
100
3,984
901
Computer
equipment
£
4,879
3,045
183
3,228
1,651
Totals
£
246,698
36,212
3,840
40,052
206,646
196,345 11,306 1,001 1,834 210,486

10. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS

FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
Listed
investments
£
MARKET VALUE
At 1st January 2021 215,208
Additions 34,958
Disposals (34,246)
Net realised gains/(losses) 1,116
Net unrealised gains/(losses) 19,653
At 31st December 2021 236,689
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31st December 2021 236,689
At 31st December 2020 215,208

The investments are analysed as follows:

2021 2020 UK 58% 63% Outside the UK 42% 37%

continued...

Page 10

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

11. STOCKS

Stocks
12.
DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Trade debtors
Other debtors
VAT
Prepayments
13.
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Trade creditors
Social security and other taxes
VAT
Other creditors
Accrued expenses
14.
MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
movement
At 1/1/21
in funds
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
443,578
33,091
Restricted funds
Mrs J Clowes
460
-
Mrs D Dillion
480
-
Medium Term Reserve
10,000
-
Co-op Community Fund
-
1,857
Footpath Resurfacing
-
1,300
10,940
3,157
TOTAL FUNDS
454,518
36,248
31/12/21
£
400
31/12/21
£
69
83
-
6,055
6,207
31/12/21
£
3,470
81
1,055
51
16,848
21,505
Transfers
between
funds
£
460
(460)
-
-
-
-
(460)
-
31/12/20
£
31/12/20
£
31/12/20
£
872
31/12/20
£
-
-
642
5,644
6,286
31/12/20
£
2,931
-
-
-
6,674
9,605
At
31/12/21
£
477,129
-
480
10,000
1,857
1,300
13,637
490,766

continued...

Page 11

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Co-op Community Fund
Footpath Resurfacing
TOTAL FUNDS
Incoming
resources
£
118,796
1,989
4,310
6,299
125,095
Resources
expended
£
(106,474)
(132)
(3,010)
(3,142)
(109,616)
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
20,769
33,091
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
3,157
20,769
36,248
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
20,769
33,091
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
3,157
20,769
36,248
3,157
36,248

Comparatives for movement in funds

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Mrs J Clowes
Mrs D Dillion
Medium Term Reserve
Sailing Centre Phase 3
TOTAL FUNDS
At 1/1/20
£
397,706
460
480
34,000
1,060
36,000
433,706
Net
movement
in funds
£
3,312
-
-
-
17,500
17,500
20,812
Transfers
between
funds
£
42,560
-
-
(24,000)
(18,560)
(42,560)
-
At
31/12/20
£
443,578
460
480
10,000
-
10,940
454,518

Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Gains and Movement
resources expended losses in funds
£ £ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 70,025 (64,223) (2,490) 3,312
Restricted funds
Sailing Centre Phase 3 17,500 - - 17,500
TOTAL FUNDS 87,525 (64,223) (2,490) 20,812

continued...

Page 12

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Mrs J Clowes
Mrs D Dillion
Medium Term Reserve
Sailing Centre Phase 3
Co-op Community Fund
Footpath Resurfacing
TOTAL FUNDS
At 1/1/20
£
397,706
460
480
34,000
1,060
-
-
36,000
433,706
Net
movement
in funds
£
36,403
-
-
-
17,500
1,857
1,300
20,657
57,060
Transfers
between
funds
£
43,020
(460)
-
(24,000)
(18,560)
-
-
(43,020)
-
At
31/12/21
£
477,129
-
480
10,000
-
1,857
1,300
13,637
490,766

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Sailing Centre Phase 3
Co-op Community Fund
Footpath Resurfacing
TOTAL FUNDS
Incoming
resources
£
188,821
17,500
1,989
4,310
23,799
212,620
Resources
expended
£
(170,697)
-
(132)
(3,010)
(3,142)
(173,839)
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
18,279
36,403
-
17,500
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
20,657
18,279
57,060
Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
18,279
36,403
-
17,500
-
1,857
-
1,300
-
20,657
18,279
57,060
20,657
57,060

15. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

During the year there were the following related party transactions:

A donation of £500 towards the footpath project was received from Glass & Stainless Ltd. J Whitehead is a director of Glass & Stainless Ltd.

G Wolfenden who is a trustee, processed purchases totalling £70 to test whether the Paypal QR code system was working, the sum of £70 was repaid in full to G Wolfenden during the year.

continued...

Page 13

Astbury Mere Trust

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

16. COVID-19

During the year, the UK continued to be impacted by the outbreak of COVID-19. In order to manage the spread of the virus the Government has imposed significant restrictions on the movement of people and the ability of businesses to continue to trade. The Trustees acknowledge the increasing risk from COVID-19 and have sought to mitigate their risk by carrying out a thorough review as discussed below:

Government assistance

The charity has taken advantage of the government grants.

Page 14

Astbury Mere Trust

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31st December 2021

31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Donations and legacies
Grants & Donations 7,326 21,488
Gift aid 449 586
Government Grants 8,373 10,000
Pathworks Project Grant & Donations 29,120 -
Tree Works Income 1,648 -
46,916 32,074
Other trading activities
Room Hire 2,690 4,006
Catering Concession 23,953 8,882
Car Parking 23,412 24,943
50,055 37,831
Investment income
Rents received 22,467 10,750
Listed Investment Income 5,588 6,807
Deposit account interest 69 63
28,124 17,620
Total incoming resources 125,095 87,525
EXPENDITURE
Other trading activities
Opening stock 872 1,030
Purchases 460 -
Closing stock (400) (872)
932 158
Investment management costs
Portfolio management 2,254 2,049
Charitable activities
Wages 10,652 7,943
Pensions 115 -
Rates and water 336 1,358
Insurance 5,408 2,328
Light and heat 4,060 2,948
Telephone 310 284
Postage and stationery 359 406
Sundries 1,549 1,873
Carried forward 22,789 17,140

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 15

Astbury Mere Trust

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities
for the Year Ended 31st December 2021
31/12/21 31/12/20
£ £
Charitable activities
Brought forward 22,789 17,140
Repairs 10,776 13,929
Warden Costs 24,833 20,622
Computer costs 734 -
Footpath Project Costs 35,708 -
Tree Works 5,045 -
99,885 51,691
Support costs
Finance
Bank charges 428 337
Paypal fees 121 -
Donations - 50
549 387
Other
Freehold property 2,427 2,476
Plant and machinery 1,131 1,256
Fixtures and fittings 100 111
Computer equipment 183 382
Loss on sale of tangible fixed assets - 3,637
3,841 7,862
Governance costs
Accountancy fees 1,655 1,526
Legal & professional fees 500 550
2,155 2,076
Total resources expended 109,616 64,223
Net income before gains and losses 15,479 23,302
Realised recognised gains and losses
Realised gains/(losses) on fixed asset investments 1,116 (3,552)
Net income 16,595 19,750

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 16