CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL
Trustee's Annual Report & Accounts for the year ending 31st December 2025
TRUSTEES: Ex-Officio Name District Lead Volunteer Mrs S Best TRUSTEES: Appointed District Chair Mr M Wenham District Treasurer Mrs S McConnachie-Kessel Trustee Mr T Best Trustee Mr C Hennessy Trustee Mr M Cardwell TRUSTEES: Co-Opted
BANKERS:
Barclays Bank PLC, Huntingdon Business Centre,The Pavement, St Ives Branch, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE27 4AQ Redwood Bank Ltd, Suite 101, The Nexus Building, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City,Hertfordshire, SG6 3TA
CUSTODIAN TRUSTEES : The Scout Association Trust Corporation in respect of District Campsite and Headquarters.
District Registration Number with the Scout Association : 10713
Charity Registration Number: 1030974
Contact: Mr Michael Wenham, 34, Ashton Close, Needingworth, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE27 4UA
Page 1
Cromwell District Scout Council Trustees Annual Report and Annual statement of Accounts For the year ending 31st December 2025
The Trustee Board is a team of volunteers who work together, as charity trustees, to make sure Scouts is run safely and legally. At the heart of their role is a focus on strategy, performance and assurance. The District Board is in touch with Group Boards to assist them in achieving these aims.
Despite the District Minibus requiring some large repair bills at the start of the season the minibus fund ended the year with a small surplus due to good usage (25 hirings) with the bus travelling 6,000 miles. The hire rate remains very competative against commercial minibus companies.
2025 was a successful year for the District Badge Secretary with over 8,317 badges sold. 763 for Squirrels, 1,361 for Beavers, 1,324 for Cubs & 665 for Scouts. In addition 1,981 staged badges and 391 joining in were sold.The most popular staged activity badge was Time on Water level 1, Explore Outdoors & let it grow for the Squirrels, Builder for the Beavers, Artist for the Cubs & Communicator for the Scouts. The most popular challenge badges were All Around Us for the Squirrells, My Adventure for the Beavers, Our Skills for the Cubs & Personal for the Scouts.The Cost of badges was regularised in April 2025 to make challenge and activity badges the same price. The District receives a discount on the cost by buying wholesale, which we pass on to groups, making badges cheaper than if ordered via the retail website
Fund raising through renting out Copley Scouting during 2025 saw over 3,000 using the site either with sleepovers, camping or weekend activities.The surplus for the year was just under £12,000. During 2025 the District spent £12,159 on Planned Maintenance items. The main expenditure being on tree surgery work that cost £6,700 that now concludes all work identified on the tree survey. Other planned maintenance work completed included the purchase of a new picnic table, 12 new camp fire seats, 2 new electric showers and the puchase of 5 mature Alders to replentish those that had been lost and two new hand mowers.
The overall reserve still stands at £32,000, being £12,000 contingency and £20,000 for the Property Refurbishment
In April we received just over £3,000 in interest from monies held on deposit with the Redwood Bank. Currently we have accrued interest of £1,800 from April to December that will be paid in April 2026.
Page 2
Report from Lead Volunteer Cromwell District - Sue Best
2025 has been another strong year of growth for Cromwell District. By the end of the year, we recorded just under 850 young people actively involved in Scouting supported by 270 adult volunteers. This brings our total engaged membership to 1,120 people across the District. I am very grateful for the commitment of our volunteers, no matter what their role, to make this happen. They make a difference
Despite this growth, demand continues to outspace our capacity. We have 437 young people on waiting lists hoping to join Scouting in Cromwell. To offer places to all of them, we would need to open approximately 20 new sections across the full age range!
In 2025 our young people embraced an extraordinary range of activities. They've kipped on ships and in climbing centres, slept under canvas, and settled into bunk rooms across the county- from Bedfordshire and Derbyshire to Essex, Gwynedd, Kent, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Suffolk and Surrey - not to mention countless nights spent at Copley, which continues to feel like a second home for many
This year also saw groups coming together to sizzle sausages and compete in a lively water carnival. Along the way they've cooked, hiked, sailed, navigated, whittled, and pushed themselves to try new things. They've challenged their limits, grown in confidence, and gained the kind of skills that stay with them for life. It's been genuinely encouraging to see sections supporting one another, pooling their strengths, and creating opportunities that every young person can share in. We have also been fortunate enough to have five young people and one adult volunteer selected to go on an adventure of a lifetime as part of the Cambridgeshire contingent at the 26th WSJ in Poland. With a year like that, its no surprise that another 400 young people are eager to join us on ou adventures.
There have been some notable changes across the District in 2025. The 1st Ramsey Scout Group reopened in September after a three-year absence, launching with a Beaver Colony and a Scout Group. Meanwhile Gateway and 5th St Ives strengthened their partnership by combining to reopen the 1st St Ives in December-developments made possible through the leadership and commitment of Hayley Aubrey and Jono Harwood respectively. Both groups are now well-placed to flourish in the years ahead.
I would like to make particular mention of Colin and Jackie Daniels, who were awarded the Silver Wolfin may- the unrestricted gift of the Chief Scout and a distinction reserved only for service of the most exceptional nature. Their dedication and unwavering commitment to Scouting has made a profound impact across our District.
Page 2A
Our annual St George's Day event in April continues to be a real highlight for me. With the dedication of our leadership teams, we bring the whole District together to paradethrough St Ives, renew our promises, and welcome families to join us on the District Campsite for a wide range of fun and engaging activities. St Ives Town Mayor, Julie Kerr who joined us for the event was escorted around the site and said, It was a very special afternoon, absolutely brilliant, Alice, Milo and Grace showed me round. It was heartwarming to meet such wonderfull young people who are full of passion and commitment, who understand the values of the community It's moments like this, each year when our community spirit shines, and reminds me why Scouting in Cromwell is so special
The District is a Trust established under its rules that are common to all Districts, and the Trustees are appointed in accordance with Policy, Organisation & Rules of the Scout Assoiation and the Accounts have been drawn up on the receipts and payment basis that is consistant with the previous year and approved by the Trustees on the 23rd February 2026 and signed by the District Chair.
Page 2B
CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ANNUAL ACCOUNT SUMMARY FOR THE YEAR END 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| Total Receipts for the Year Total Payments for the Year Net Surplus / Deficit for the year Cash, Bank and similar funds brought forward Cash, Bank and similar funds carried forward |
This Year Total £ 119,073.40 127,364.02 -8,290.62 133,882.88 125,592.26 |
Previous Year Total £ 67,483.63 57,764.09 |
|---|---|---|
| 9,719.54 124,163.34 |
||
| 125,592.26 | 133,882.88 |
The above accounts and accompanying statement(s) of assets and liabilities were approved
by Trustees on 23rd February 2026 and signed on their behalf by M wenham Mike Wenham
Independent Examiners Statement
I have independently examined the records and the accounts as set out on pages 3 to 8 and in my opinion the accounts are in accordance with the records produced to me.
Name Graeme Huttley
Signed Graeme Huttley G Huttley
Date:-
NOTE Figures for all 3 Explorer Units, Network, CMC, Badge Secretary are separate activities but are included in the general fund for audit purposes.
Page 3
CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL RECEIPTS FOR THE YEAR END 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONS Less paid to HQ\County\Rebates INVESTMENT INCOME RECEIVED Redwood Bank Interest DONATIONS/GRANTS/ LEGACY Donations Legacy (John Hancox) ACTIVITIES Copley Scouting Centre Squirrels Beavers Cubs Scouts Young Leaders Minibus International Trips Needingworth Scout Group (Sum Up) Midas, D1 Train, Insurance Excess Cygnet Cromwell Explorer Scout Unit & Network Nulli Secundi Explorer Sea Scout Unit Cromwell Mountain Club ASU Ramsey Scout group FUND RAISING District St Georges Day OTHER INCOME Gift Aid Rebate Rates Refund HDC - Covid SUNDRY RECEIPTS Phone BT refund Badges TOTAL RECEIPTS FOR THE YEAR |
This Year Total £ 47,328.00 0.00 47,328.00 3,005.18 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00 18,005.24 280.00 40.00 735.00 0.00 421.84 3,943.41 223.88 0.00 680.00 780.00 16,768.50 6,188.54 6,350.57 4,701.68 59,118.66 0.00 150.00 150.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 970.32 7,501.24 8,471.56 119,073.40 |
Previous Year Total £ 42,552.00 35,854.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 6,698.00 | ||
| 690.06 | ||
| 500.00 1,935.89 |
||
| 2,435.89 | ||
| 13,065.68 0.00 50.00 650.18 0.00 0.00 3,439.00 520.00 1,108.17 430.00 2,470.00 14,142.77 4,211.59 10,660.55 2,748.68 |
||
| 53,496.62 | ||
| 0.00 0.00 |
||
| 0.00 | ||
| 0.00 0.00 |
||
| 0.00 | ||
| 0.00 4,163.06 |
||
| 4,163.06 | ||
| 119,073.40 | 67,483.63 |
Page 4
CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR END 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| PREMISES New Equipment / Repairs Cleaning Rates Water & Septic Tank Electricity - Light and Heat Insurance BT - Phone & Internet Fire Extinguishers & Fire Alarm Service DONATIONS/GRANTS Donations ACTIVITIES Copley Scouting Centre Planned Maintenance Squirrels Beavers Cubs Scouts Young Leaders Needingworth Scout Group (Sum up) International Trips Transformation Costs Midas, D1 Training, Insur excess Cygnet Minibus Cromwell Explorer Scout Unit & Network Nulli Secundi Explorer Sea Scout Unit Cromwell Mountain Club ASU Ramsey Scout Group FUND RAISING EXPENSES District District Domains ADMIN/ESTAB EXPENSES TRUSTEE / DISTRICT EXPENSES OTHER EXPENSES AGM St Georges Day Membership to TSA & County PURCHASE OF BADGES SUNDRY PAYMENTS TOTAL PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR |
This Year Total £ 0.00 3,288.54 239.52 661.23 1,836.10 1,709.40 1,051.80 559.23 9,345.82 0.00 0.00 1,022.99 12,158.83 485.00 119.39 495.38 0.00 634.20 0.00 250.00 0.00 0.00 1,163.40 4,901.91 18,204.74 5,946.85 7,600.92 16,964.15 69,947.76 0.00 338.81 338.81 161.65 16.30 481.45 40,293.00 40,790.75 6,779.23 0.00 127,364.02 |
Previous Year Total £ 0.00 2,562.44 99.42 561.46 1,862.55 1,711.43 1,363.16 672.02 |
|---|---|---|
| 8,832.48 | ||
| 500.00 | ||
| 500.00 | ||
| 1,629.68 11,332.57 0.00 80.89 1,068.70 0.00 161.00 1,108.17 0.00 266.75 120.00 1,846.72 2,028.98 11,652.05 1,625.51 8,387.00 1,913.72 |
||
| 43,221.74 | ||
| 0.00 0.00 |
||
| 0.00 | ||
| 437.90 | ||
| 22.00 441.53 |
||
| 463.53 | ||
| 4,308.44 | ||
| 0.00 | ||
| 127,364.02 | 57,764.09 |
Page 5
CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES AT 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| MONETARY ASSETS Cash Bank and similar funds Bank Current Account ( s ) Bank Deposit Account ( s ) Building Society Account ( s ) Cash in hand NON-MONETARY ASSETS Assets for Charities own use Badge Secretary's stock Land and Buildings Scouting Equipment, Furniture etc Minibus Accrued Interest Redwood Bank |
This Year Total £ 43,001.25 82,591.01 0.00 0.00 125,592.26 3,958 3,958 547,817 645 5,030 1,800 |
Previous Year Total £ 64,410.75 69,472.13 0.00 0.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 133,882.88 | ||
| 3,394 | ||
| 3,394 | ||
| 526,748 759 5,917 |
Page 6
CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL - OPENING BALANCES
| £ | £ | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Opening | Closing | ||
| Balance | Balance | ||
| 01.01.2025 | 31.12.2025 | ||
| 1 | District | 92,183.98 | 85,616.25 * see below |
| 2 | CESU | 15,990.85 | 14,554.61 |
| 3 | Nulli Secundi Explorers | 8,172.36 | 8,414.05 |
| 4 | CMC Active Support | 14,294.98 | 13,044.63 |
| 5 | Badge Secretary | 3,240.71 | 3,962.72 |
| Allocation of District Funds Property & Contingency Reserve Pat Tylers Legacy District Camp Planned Maintenance D1 Train, Midas,insur excess Beavers Cubs Scouts Young Leaders CDASU International Trip Support Cygnet Ramsey Scout Group Minibus Squirrels WSJ Poland District 50th Celebration Non Allocated Funds |
133,882.88 |
|---|---|
| 92,183.98 |
85,616.25
Page 7
CROMWELL DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL - CLOSING BALANCES
| 1 District 2 CESU & Network 3 Nulli Secundi Explorers 4 CMC ASU 5 Badge Secretary |
£ Bank Current Account 31-Dec-25 15,707.15 14,554.61 6,347.45 2,954.06 3,437.98 43,001.25 |
£ Bank Deposit Account 31-Dec-25 69,909.10 0.00 2,066.60 10,090.57 524.74 82,591.01 |
£ Building Society Account 31-Dec-25 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 |
£ Cash in Hand 31-Dec-25 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 |
£ Total 31-Dec-25 85,616.25 14,554.61 8,414.05 13,044.63 3,962.72 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43,001.25 | 82,591.01 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 125,592.26 |
Page 8
CROMWELL EXPLORER, RAMWELL NETWORK SCOUT UNIT ACCOUNTS FOR PERIOD 1ST JANUARY TO 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| 1 Subscriptions 2 Membership 3 Insurance 4 Rent 5 Gift Aid 6 Activities 7 Trips Totals 8 Misc 9 Equipment 10 Ramwell 11 Network Total Opening Balance 01.01.2025 Receipts Payments Closing Balance 31.12.2025 |
Receipts 3,329.00 1,447.00 9,101.00 1,175.00 146.50 1,570.00 16,768.50 15,990.85 16,768.50 -18,204.74 14,554.61 |
Payments 93.28 1,740.00 267.58 744.00 1,561.25 9,242.25 1,757.66 1,195.30 420.98 1,182.44 |
|---|---|---|
| 18,204.74 | ||
| 14,554.61 |
Page 9
NULLI SECUNDI EXPLORER SEA SCOUT UNIT ACCOUNTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| 1.0 Subscriptions 2.0 Membership 3.0 Hall Hire 4.0 Donations 5.0 Fundraising 6.0 Activities 7.0 Camps 8.0 Uniform/Clothing/Badges 9.0 Insurance / Registration 10.0 Equipment 11.0 Misc 12.0 Interest (Deposit Account) Opening Balance 01.01.2025 Receipts Payments Closing Balance 31.12.2025 Current account Deposit Account Overall Balances |
Receipts 2,797.34 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 708.56 2,486.33 180.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 16.31 6,188.54 8,172.36 6,188.54 -5,946.85 8,414.05 01.01.25 Open Balance 6,122.07 2,050.29 8,172.36 |
Payments 0.00 1,026.00 914.16 0.00 0.00 850.52 2,559.82 594.85 0.00 0.00 1.50 0.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 5,946.85 | ||
| 31.12.25 Close Balance 6,347.45 2,066.60 |
||
| 8,172.36 | 8,414.05 |
Page 10
CMC ACCOUNTS FOR PERIOD 1ST JANUARY TO 31ST JANUARY 2025
| 1.0 Trips & Expeditions 1.1 North Norfolk 1.2 Big Rock 2025 1.3 Beddgelert 2025 1.4 Gradbach 2025 1.5 Iikley 2025 1.5 Trip Refunds account 2025 1.6 Ivinghoe Beacon Day 2025 1.7 WSC 2026 Site Deposit 1.8 Drum Hill 2026 Deposit 1.9 Park House 2026 Deposit Kit 1.10 Trip Kit incl maps 1.11 Clothing incl shirts & neckers 1.12 Miscellaneous Training 1.13 Training 1.14 Interest Opening Balance 01.01.2025 Receipts Payments Closing Balance 31.12.2025 Current Account Barclays Deposit Account |
Receipts 90.00 14.00 1,725.00 1,740.00 2,100.00 391.00 160.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 40.00 0.00 0.00 90.57 6,350.57 14,294.98 14,294.98 6,350.57 -7,600.92 13,044.63 2,954.06 10,090.57 13,044.63 |
Payments 514.13 793.27 1,770.88 1,357.98 1,481.77 20.00 0.00 100.00 400.00 100.00 406.12 325.00 51.77 280.00 0.00 |
|---|---|---|
| 7,600.92 | ||
| 13,044.63 |
Page 11
BADGE SECRETARY ACCOUNTS 1ST JANUARY TO 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| Closing Balance 31st Dec 2024 Bank Deposit Bank Current Cash in hand Open Balance 1st Jan 2025 Receipts: Badge Sales Cash Badge Sales Cheques Badge Sales Direct Payments Premium Account Interest Total Payments Closing Balance 31st Dec 2025 Bank Deposit Bank Current Cash in hand Total Debtors C/F at 31/12/2025 Badge Stock |
517.92 2,722.79 0.00 |
|---|---|
| 3,240.71 | |
| 3,240.71 0.00 0.00 7,494.42 6.82 |
|
| 10,741.95 -6,779.23 |
|
| 3,962.72 | |
| 524.74 3,437.98 0.00 |
|
| 3,962.72 | |
| 204.05 | |
| 3,958.28 |
Page 12