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← Stoke Sub Hamdon Sports And Recreation Trust

2024-12-31-accounts

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST

CHARITY NUMBER 1063874

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FY 2024

ISSUE 1

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 2 2. ORGANISATION 2 3. ADMINISTRATION 3 4. ACHIEVEMENTS AND SUCCESSES IN 2024 4 4.1 Progress Against Five Year Strategy 2023-28 and Adopted Projects Plan FY 2024 5 4.2 Recreation Ground Management 6 4.3 Charity Shop and Events Committee Fund Raising 7 4.4 Stoke Performing Arts Group (SPAG) 8 4.5 Volunteers 8 5. OBJECTIVES AND CHALLENGES FOR 2025 9 5.1 Five Year Strategy Update 9 5.2 Future Project Plans FY 2025 9 5.3 Maintenance and Upkeep of the Recreation Ground FY 2025 10 5.4 Communication 10 5.5 Key Events for 2025 10 6. FINANCIAL SUMMARY FY 2025 10 7. CONCLUSION 11

APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1 – TREASURER’S REPORT APPENDIX 2 - CHARITY SHOP REPORT

APPENDIX 3 - EVENTS COMMITTEE REPORT APPENDIX 4 - STOKE PERFORMING ARTS GROUP REPORT APPENDIX 5 - STOKE YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB REPORT APPENDIX 6 - STOKE SUB HAMDON FOOTBALL CLUB REPORT

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CHAIR’S REPORT

1. INTRODUCTION

The Sports and Recreation Trust is an unincorporated charitable association. It was established in 1997 to provide sports and recreation facilities for the Stoke sub Hamdon area.

The Sports and Recreation Trust consists of the following member organisations:

There are also a number of individuals who are members of the Trust. These Trustees are governed by the charity’s constitution and form the Executive Committee, which not only manages the day-to-day operations and activities of the Trust but also carries out the stated objects in the constitution. All Trustees are registered with the Charity Commission in the Annual Report.

Three Honorary Officers, the Chair, the Treasurer, and the Secretary, are elected from amongst the Executive Committee by the Trustees at the Annual General Meeting and hold their posts for one year.

The following were Trustees and formed the Executive Committee during 2024:

Chair: John Allan
Treasurer: Rebecca Merrick
Secretary: Peter Hulett
Individual Members: Denise Burton
Jane Baker
Paul Jeffrey
Jeanie Augarde
Rick Draper
Colin Roberts (joined October 2024)
Parish Council: Moira Hulett (stepped down November 2024)
Castle Street School: Jo Knobbs
Senior Football Club: Neil Raison
Youth Football Club: Tim Brookes (stepped down March 2024)
Kim Campbell/Adam Maher (from April 2024)
Honorary Member: Sylvia Seale

2. ORGANISATION

The Trust has organised itself into five sub committees, which, with the exception of Future Projects, are allocated annual budgets by the Executive Committee under the Annual Budget Plan. The sub committees have budgetary authority and responsibility within their designated budget and can revert to the Executive Committee if additional funding is required.

The sub committees are represented on the Trust Executive Committee and can recruit non-Trust members to meet their annual commitments. The sub committees and representatives are as follows:

Facilities Management Committee – is responsible for managing and maintaining the existing facilities at the Recreation Ground, West Street. This work is carried out by agreement between the Trust and the Parish Council, who are the leaseholders of the land. All of the work undertaken by the Trust at the Recreation Ground is

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effectively done on behalf of the Parish Council, who own all of the facilities. The sub-committee is chaired by Peter Hulett.

Future Projects Committee - is responsible for scoping new projects for the approval of the Trust. The subcommittee is chaired by Peter Hulett, supported by John Allan.

Sports and Recreation Trust Events Committee –The objective of the Committee is to raise funds to support the objectives of the Trust through organising social, educational, and recreational events in Stoke sub Hamdon, including the annual May Fayre. The sub-committee is chaired by Denise Burton and supported by individuals who are interested in being involved in meeting the objectives of the Committee.

Charity Shop Committee – is responsible for managing the Charity Shop, which raises funds for the Trust and other projects in the community. The sub-committee representative on the Executive Committee was Jane Baker. Denise Burton chairs the Charity Shop Committee and also sits on the Executive Committee as a Trustee.

Stoke Performing Arts Group (SPAG) – is a village group that was established in 2016 and became a subcommittee within the Trust for financial management, fund raising and other administrative requirements. The SPAG representative on the Executive Committee is Jeanie Augarde.

3. ADMINISTRATION

The Trust regularly reviews and updates, where necessary, its constitution, operating systems, policies, forms, and documents.

The Trust has in place the following administrative system:

A major review of the Operating Manual Part 3 – Operating Procedures was initiated in 2024 with the aim of rationalising the content of the manual with the policies and the Terms of Reference in the Operating Manual Part 2 – Governance. This review is expected to complete in the first quarter of 2025.

The following policies are adopted:

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The following policies were added in 2024:

The full record of all policies is kept in the Operating Manual Part 4 – Policies. All policies will be reviewed in September 2025.

4. ACHIEVEMENTS AND SUCCESSES IN 2024

During the past year grass cutting, hedge trimming and general grounds maintenance continued on the Recreation Ground, keeping it as an attractive open space for the community to enjoy, as well as routine maintenance and repairs to the play equipment along with routine annual servicing of facilities and equipment. The Youth and Senior football clubs have continued to be principal beneficiaries from our upkeep of the playing pitches, training area, storage facilities and pavilion, with charges for the use of these facilities deliberately kept as low as reasonably possible, but under constant review.

All the hard work raising funds, securing the necessary planning approvals, and negotiating contracts in 2023 for The Skateboard Park Upgrade project paid off when the project got underway in April 2024 with completion and handover to the Parish Council in June. Between January and August, the Trust paid from its accrued funds a total £200,339.59 to the skateboard park project.

We saw the May Fayre return to Stanchester Academy grounds for a second year.

SPAG put on two productions during the year in February and November and launched a project to instal fixed stage lighting in the Memorial Hall.

In December we updated and approved our Five-Year Strategy, issuing our Five-Year Strategy 2025-2030 to the Parish Council for their approval; its aim always to provide a way ahead for the provision of education, sports, and recreation facilities for the community. Key future projects were identified for completion in 2025.

In 2024 the Trust itself provided grant support to the Memorial Hall Committee totalling £2,196.00 for stage lighting and curtains. SPAG contributed a further £1984.80 towards the stage lighting project.

The Charity Shop committee provided grant support of £5,329 to community projects in 2024. The benefactors were 4 students from Stanchester Academy who will be taking part in an overseas World Challenge trip and who earnt their grant money by volunteering 30hrs in the Charity Shop, the Memorial Hall for a new oven as part of its kitchen refit, Stoke sub Hamdon Brownies towards their County Camp, the village artists group for display kits, and the Lighthouse for a new grill. The Events Committee donated a further £414.81 to the Stanchester World Challenge Fund from May Fayre takings.

The closing bank balance for FY2024 is an extremely healthy £106,802.75, with £65,231.05 of financial commitments, amounting to over 50% of our reserves, as follows:

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• 2024 Charity Shop Grants – World Challenge £ 2,000.00
• 2024 May Fayre Committed Grants – SWMC £ 500.00
• SLL Grounds Maintenance contract- 1 April 24 to 31 Mar 25 £ 1,500.00
• Play Inspections - Full Year Service for 2024 x 3 plus 1 annual £ 555.00
• APA Phase 2 Skateboard Park @ Maverick Retainment £ 4,225.00
• Skateboard Park (2024 S106 commuted funds for 5x years maint.) £11,223.34
• Safety Netting £22,887.41
• Adventure Play Area (APA) Phase 3 - Improved Security £ 5,400.00
• APA Phase 4 - Improved Access - 5 Bar Gate off Matts Lane £ 2,800.00
• APA Phase 4 - Improved Access Parking Facility £ 3,000.00
• APA Phase 4 - Improved access Matts Lane Pedestrian Gates £ 6,000.00
• Stoke Performing Arts Group £ 5,140.30

In addition, we have a separate bank account for S&RT Reserves totalling £14,136.92 as of 31 December 2024. This leaves an unallocated amount of £36,843.46 to cover operating costs for FY2025. A full breakdown of funds allocated or ring-fenced is in the Treasurer’s report at Appendix 1.

4.1 Progress Against Five-Year Strategy 2023-28 and Adopted Projects Plan FY 2024

The Trust produces a Five-Year Strategy which identifies future projects for the improvement of the sports and recreation facilities on the Recreation Ground, West Street. This is updated every two years on a rolling basis.

As projects identified in the strategy mature, they can become Adopted Projects and the Trust produces the Adopted Projects Plan for projects that planned for completion over the next two years.

Both documents are presented to the Parish Council for their approval.

The Five-Year Strategy 2023-28, dated March 2023, identified the following projects:

Project Status
Adventure Play Area Improvement – Phase 2 – Skateboard Park
Upgrade		 Transferred to Adopted Project Plan
-Complete
Adventure Play Area Improvement – Phase 3 – BMX Track
Improvement		 Rolled Over to Five Year Strategy
2025-2030
Adventure Play Area Improvement – Phase 4 – Improved Access Minor project for FY 2025 with
funding allocated.
Floodlit Training Area Improvement – Phase 3 – Safety Netting Minor project for FY 2025 with
funding allocated.

The main achievement in 2024 against the Adopted Projects Plan FY 2023 was the completion of the Skateboard Park Upgrade Project. This was launched as an adopted project in 2023 when Phase 1 – Project Definition, Phase 2 - Selection of Potential Suppliers, Phase 3 – Bid Process and Phase 4 – Planning Approval and Fund Raising - of the project were completed.

On 12th January 2024, Phase 5 - Contract Award – was completed with the contract being signed between Maverick Industries Ltd and the Trust and a project start date was agreed.

Phase 6 – Project Execution started in April 2024 and the handover from contractor to the Parish Council took place in June 2025. The handover started Phase 7 – Acceptance and Opening Ceremony of the project, which completed in August with a very successful Skateboard Jam.

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4.2 Recreation Ground Management

The Trust carries out the maintenance and upkeep of the Recreation Ground, West Street, under the Recreation Ground Management and Maintenance Agreement (the Agreement) between the Parish Council. The Trust produces a Facilities Maintenance Plan for the financial year in accordance with the Agreement and this is presented to the Parish Council for approval and, once approved, the Trust carries out the maintenance of the Recreation Ground in accordance with that plan and budget. Also, in accordance with the Agreement, the Trust provides four quarterly reports to the Parish Council detailing progress against the Facilities Management Plan and these reports provide spend against budget, actions completed and outstanding actions and issues.

Achievements in FY 2024

The Trust met all its maintenance and upkeep obligations for the Recreation Ground and its facilities in accordance with the Facilities Maintenance Plan for FY2024. Over and above the planned maintenance requirements, 47 actions were raised during FY2024, of which only 9 are carried over to FY2025 of which 3 have been identified as minor projects for FY2025 and funding has been allocated.

Overview Performance against Budget

The FY 2024 budget for the maintenance of the Recreation Ground and its facilities was £20,225.000 and the planned income was £5,490.00. The shortfall of £14,765.00 would be made up by funds generated from the activities of the Charity Shop and the SRT Events Committee and from any grant funding sources accessible by the Trust.

The actual expenditure was £20,544.81, which was £289.81 over budget. The actual income was £6,121.00, which was £631.00 better than budget. This came from the better than planned use of the facilities by the football clubs.

The final figures for the year end mean that the Charity Shop and the SRT Events Committee provided £14,423.81 towards the maintenance of the Recreation Ground and all its facilities.

Analysis of Actual Expenditure and Income

The budget was overspent in the following key areas:

There was underspend in the following key areas:

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Summary of Expenditure Profile

The summary of actual expenditure for the maintenance of the Recreation Ground and all its facilities for the previous five years up to 2024 is as follows:

Year 2019
(£k)		 2020
(£k)		 2021
(£k)		 2022
(£k)		 2023
(£k)		 2024
(£k)		 Total
(£k)
Actual Expenditure 19.5 19.0 24.0 21.2 27.1 20.5 131.3
Grants and User Fees
Income		 13.2¹ 17.82 17.33 6.2 8.04 5.5 68.0
Balance provided by the
Trust		 6.3 1.2 6.7 15.0 19.1 15.0 63.3

1 Includes SSDC and other COVID support grants of £6,506.00.

2 Includes SSDC COVID Business Support Grants of £12,334.00

3 Includes SSDC COVID Business Support Grants of £11,540.00

4 Includes £2,000.00 from S106 commuted sums grants.

Since 2012, the cost of maintaining the Recreation Ground and all its facilities has been £238.4k, of which the Trust has provided £127.5k.

Inspections

The Trust carried out visual inspections of the facilities and equipment and provided the Parish Council with monthly reports.

An external inspection company was contracted with and they provided three Operational and one Annual Inspection reports for the play equipment, the outdoor gym equipment, the BMX track, and the skateboard park which were also provided to the Parish Council.

The following inspections were carried out in 2024:

4.3 Charity Shop and Events Committee Fund Raising

In 2024 the Trust had two main planned means of fund raising, the Charity Shop and the May Fayre. The Charity Shop and Events Committees can nominate projects for grant support from their profits up to 50% for the Charity

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Shop and 25% for the Events Committee. The Charity Shop report is attached at Appendix 2. The Events Committee report is attached at Appendix 3. 2024 was another exceptional year for both committees.

The Charity Shop has now been open for over 13 years. In 2024 it achieved unbelievable results. Easily surpassing last years takings by over £4,000, with a grand total income of £43,888.82 against a forecast income of £26,400 and with operating costs managed carefully to come in below budget. The shop continues to go from strength to strength, year on year. The upward trajectory of the annual sales figures post-Covid is phenomenal. Its huge success is thanks to all the hard work of the Charity Shop Committee, the dedicated band of volunteers, and the fantastic support that it receives from the community. There is always a lot of successful and innovative thought, ideas, and actions by the Charity Shop team, brought about to maximise income and to control costs. Very well done to all concerned.

The May Fayre also had an exceptional year. It was a delight to see the event return to Stanchester Academy for its second year after its previous enforced four-year absence. Grateful thanks to the Academy for hosting and huge thanks to the staff and students of Stanchester who helped on the day, and the fantastic efforts of the Events Committee and the band of volunteers who worked so hard in preparing for the event, on the day itself, and clearing away afterwards. An amazing profit of over £7,000 was achieved. This was a fantastic result despite the dreadful weather and is testament to the efforts of all and the brilliant community support. Once again, very well done to all involved with the organisation and execution.

4.4 Stoke Performing Arts Group (SPAG)

A full report from SPAG, including information on some future planned events, is attached at Appendix 4. Last year SPAG continued to build upon the successes of previous years, undertaking two major productions, each event making a financial profit with a combined total of over £2,000.

The work of SPAG is incredibly impressive. The individual performances are unique and varied; embracing new ideas, encouraging new recruits, unearthing local talents in a whole host of fields, and fostering relations with other local organisations. The productions are always well received and wholeheartedly supported by the community.

Their collaboration with the Memorial Hall committee to help provide and fund permanent stage lighting at the venue is a shining example of village groups coming together and working for the benefit of all.

Everyone involved with SPAG should be incredibly proud of their achievements and amazing creative talents. The hard work, motivation and commitment of the cast, the directors, producers, prop makers, costume designers, lighting and technical teams, administrators, and all others involved with much, much more, is greatly appreciated and should be loudly applauded by all.

4.5 Volunteers

The major strength of the Trust is its hardworking, motivated, and innovative group of volunteers. This cannot be emphasised enough. Everyone who makes all this happen is a volunteer and without them we would not be able to do any of the things we currently undertake and seek to achieve for the community. People volunteer for many different reasons and are able and/or willing to commit at different levels. The contribution of each and every volunteer is highly valued, however big or small.

During 2024 the Trust had a settled core number of 12 volunteers. These form the Trust and its Executive Committee and include people from member organisations who are also fully engaged in their primary activities with the football clubs, Parish Council and Castle School.

There is a pool of 43 amazing volunteers keeping the Charity Shop open and thriving. Keeping it operating as a full-time business is no small task for the Shop’s Committee members, who approach their roles in an impressively committed and professional manner, both individually and as a collective.

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The Events committee comprises a diligent small core team of volunteers during the year, but which always expands significantly with an ‘all hands-on deck’ approach on the day of any event.

Likewise, there is a very dedicated core team of volunteers forming the SPAG committee. The number of volunteers always increases significantly for any given production; carrying out tasks ranging from the cast, wardrobe, technical, props and scenery, and safety.

Our sincere thanks go to each and every person who has given up some of their time to be involved in some way or other.

We would always welcome the membership of other village and community organisations that have similar objectives for improving education, sport, and recreation facilities. Anyone wishing to join the Trust, should contact one of the Trustees.

Being a volunteer is hard work, makes demands on your time, but comes with enormous rewards. The only limit is your imagination – what we have achieved over the years, and our ambitions for the future, is proof of that.

5. OBJECTIVES AND CHALLENGES FOR 2025

5.1 Five-Year Strategy Update

The Five-Year Strategy for 2025-2030 was agreed by the Trust and distributed to the Parish Council for approval in December 2024. The following projects were identified as part of the Adventure Play Area Improvement Programme in the new strategy:

5.2 Future Project Plans FY 2025

The following projects for the improvement and upkeep of the facilities on the Recreation Ground West Street have been identified and funding allocated for completion in FY 2025:

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A Minor Maintenance Project is planned for 2025, with the replacement of the existing floor in the pavilion building during the off-season period April-August 2024. This project will have to go through a tender and selection process to enable the Trust to access S106 Changing Rooms grant funding of £11,432.42.

Plans are being developed to improve the grass quality and drainage on the new pitch. Once the project is better specified, the Trust will liaise with the Football Foundation to identify potential suppliers and funding sources.

5.3 Maintenance and Upkeep of the Recreation Ground FY 2025

A major task for the Trust is the maintenance and upkeep of the Recreation Ground – keeping this large area and its facilities fit for use by not only the football clubs, but also other members of the community. The Trust provided the Parish Council with the Facilities Maintenance Plan FY 2025, which provides a detailed breakdown of the planned budget as follows:

It can be seen from above that there are significant costs in grounds maintenance, however it should be borne in mind that a large area of grass is kept trim and in good condition for all to use – it is a lot more than just football pitches.

As the facilities on the Recreation Ground increase and the existing installations age, so the operating /maintenance costs increase and meeting these increased costs and commitments will be a major target for the Trust in the future.

5.4 Communication

The Trust aims to always improve upon its communication with the community, including through the village Newsletter, the Trust’s website, and Facebook. We can, and should, do more to publicise and celebrate our achievements.

The website is now up-to-date and is a useful tool providing news about the Trust, its projects, and events, and access to reports such as the Five-Year Strategy, Adopted Projects Plan, the Trust Annual Report, Facilities Maintenance Plans, Accounts, meeting’s minutes, etc.

5.5 Key Events for 2025

In February SPAG will be performing its ‘SPAGtacular’ variety show.

The May Fayre will return again at Stanchester Academy.

The second annual Skate Jam will take place in August.

6. FINANCIAL SUMMARY FY 2025

The budget plan for 2025 is as follows:

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Area Income
(£)		 Expenditure
(£)
Charity Shop 33,600.00 13,390.00
Events Committee 11,100.00 7,495.00
Facilities Maintenance 8,000.00¹ 22,687.00
S&RT Accounts 2,000.00 4,850.00
Grant Support (from Charity Shop²/Events Committee³profit) 0 11,006.25

¹User fees + PC grant + S106 Commuted Fund ²£10,105@ 50% ³£901.25@25%

The opening bank balance in January 2025 means that for the Trust to meet all its obligations within the planned budgets we would finish the year with a negative balance of £4,728.25. However, due to the healthy credit of £106,802.75 retained in our bank account at the end of 2024, this is something the Trust is able to endorse with confidence during 2025. For detailed information on planned income and expenditure, please refer to Appendix 1.

7. CONCLUSION

2024 was a hugely memorable and satisfying year for the Trust.

The very significant and long planned project for replacement of the skateboard park at the Recreation Ground was completed. Upgrade of the original metal constructed skate park was first identified as a project as far back as 2013. By 2021 the project was upgraded to a full replacement due to corrosion of the existing facility, despite all efforts to keep it maintained. In 2023 Maverick Industries Ltd. were chosen as the supplier. During 2023 and early 2024, the Trust worked at fund raising, securing the required £169,000.00 (Ex-VAT). The contract was signed in early 2024 and construction started in July, with completion, independent inspection, and handover to the Parish Council on 14th August 2024. Formal launch took place with a celebratory Skate Jam in August that was hugely successful and extremely well attended by young and old. For a small community to complete a project of this scale in under two years is a major achievement, and one we should be extremely proud of. Huge thanks go to all the organisations who provided grant funding and to the team at Maverick Industries Ltd for their support and professionalism. The new skateboard park, together with the existing facilities at the Recreation Ground, provides a fantastic opportunity for young people in our community to play in a safe and community friendly environment.

The May Fayre triumphed again, despite the best efforts of the weather, and both the Charity Shop and SPAG continue to go from strength to strength, which is fantastic.

In April, we reported that since 2011 the Trust had provided a total of £75,027.71 in direct grants to individuals and organisations in the village for their projects and that the Trust had raised, (through our own efforts and through grant funding) over £323,167.25 for projects on the Recreation Ground. Those figures have since been topped up further through the second part of last year.

It is always encouraging to hear how the football clubs are flourishing. We pride ourselves in maintaining the Recreation Ground for local community sports participation and must always be open to receive and encourage more inclusive and diverse use of the facilities.

Since 2011, the Trust has funded the upkeep of the Recreation Ground to a total of £127.5k Between the start of 2012 and up to the end of 2024, the Trust has raised, by one means or another, and redistributed towards community facilities, projects, organisations, and individuals in the village a total of £543,637.55. This sum of well over half a million pounds is an enormous achievement for a small community organisation run entirely by volunteers and should be loudly applauded and celebrated.

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With this in mind, it is always a sobering thought to remember how heavily the Trust depends on two principal funding sources, i.e. The Charity Shop and the Events Committee. The extreme hard work that is put in by the volunteers must never be taken for granted.

With increasing investment to improve the sport and recreation facilities within the community comes ever increasing and mounting maintenance costs. The cost of facilities maintenance at the Recreation Ground has risen from around £6,600 in 2011 to a budget estimate of £22,687 for 2025. Each year the challenge to fund the work of the Trust, and the benefits that flow to the community from it, becomes harder and harder. As the dayto-day costs of materials and labour charges continues to rise, the operating costs of the Trust inevitably follows suit. Whilst we are currently financially sound, a significant proportion of our funds is already ringfenced for identified projects. It is essential that we do not take our current financial position for granted.

Past experiences with the adventure play area and skateboard park projects have clearly shown that funding for large projects only usually flows when something like 50% of the costs are already secured. We have benefitted in the past, as have other organisations in the village, from S106 monies secured from development projects in the area. These have provided significant amounts of money but as a resource, these funds are becoming increasingly harder to come by. When taken with the Trust’s own fundraising, and grants from other sources, including from the Parish Council, they have in the past formed a critical bedrock for specific projects from which then has it been possible to start seeking and sourcing further funding. It is important to understand and stress that any future plans to bring forward further improvements to the facilities at the Recreation Ground can only ever happen with the full support and commitment of Somerset Council, particularly when they are seeking to secure future S106 funds for community led projects from local new developments, as well as from the Parish Council.

In September, it was with great pride that the Trust received an award from Somerset Council for Services to the Community. The certificate and plaque are proudly displayed in the Charity Shop and serves as a reminder to all why we do what we do. Thanks go to the Parish Council for our nomination.

Finally, but not least, sincere thanks go to the dedicated band of volunteers in the Charity Shop, the Events Committee, SPAG, all those who help with village events, the Football Clubs, and the Executive Committee. All these people commit their time, hard work, and excellent ideas to help to make Stoke sub Hamdon a better community for everyone. Volunteering is not always easy but it is rewarding. Peoples’ time and effort, however big or small, should always be appreciated and never taken for granted. Without them, none of what is reported here would be possible. I would also like to thank the community, the Parish Council, and the Somerset Council for their full support to the Trust and its aims. Despite everything achieved in 2024, there are always new challenges and opportunities ahead as we continue to look forward.

John Allan Chair - Stoke sub Hamdon Sports and Recreation Trust

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STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

Statement by Trustee Treasurer

The Sports & Recreation Trust employs a qualified Independent Accountant, to examine the books for the past year from January 1[st] to December 31[st] 2024.

The Trust started the year with an opening bank balance of £65,815.07 and the closing bank balance as of December, once reconciled with outstanding credits and debits, was £106,802.75. The budget income and expenditure for 2025 reduces this balance to £102,074.50.

This total incorporates the following grants and monies that are committed expenditure:

2024 Charity Shop Grants – World Challenge £2,000.00
2024 May Fayre Committed Grants – SWMC £500.00
SLL Grounds Maintenance contract- 1 April 24 to 31 Mar 25 – PO
SRT/2024/002 (Estimated budget to complete).		 £1,500.00
Play Inspections - Full Year Service for 2024 x 3 plus 1 annual – PO
SRT/2024/003		 £555.00
APA Phase 2 Skateboard Park @ Maverick £4,225 Retainment £4,225.00
Skateboard Park (2024 S106 commuted funds for 5x years maint.) £11,223.34
Safety Netting £22,887.41
APA Phase 3 - Improved Security £5,400.00
APA Phase 4 - Improved Access - 5 Bar Gate off Matts Lane £2,800.00
APA Phase 4 - Improved Access Parking Facility £3,000.00
APA Phase 4 - Improved access Matts Lane Pedestrian Gates £6,000.00
Stoke Performing Arts Group £5,140.30
Total £65,231.05

In addition, we have a separate bank account for S&RT Reserves totalling £14,136.92 as of 31 December 2024.

With the above excluded, the Trust has a total of £36,843.46 available for 2025.

A breakdown of all financial transactions is shown on the following pages.

Rebecca Merrick Treasurer, SSH Sports & Recreation Trust February 2025

Stoke sub Hamdon Sports & Recreation Trust

Charity Number 1063874

VAT Number 780 8830 01

2024 Treasurer's Statement

S&RT Bank Balance as of End December 2023
1) 2024 Projected Income
Facilities
SSH Parish Council Grant for Recreation maintenance
SSDC S106 Grants (Playing Pitches)
SSDC S106 Grants (Equipped Play)
Charity Shop
Events Committee
Skateboard Park Project
Stoke Performing Arts Group
S&RT (VAT/Misc Donations income)
2) 2024 Operating Costs
Facilities Maintenance
Charity Shop
Events Committee
Stoke Performing Arts Group
S&RT
Skateboard Park Project
3) 2024 Community Sports/Education/Recreation Grants:
Charity Shop
Events Committee
Trust
2024 Balance plus 2024 Income minus Expenditure		 Forecast
Expenditure
£42,308.96
£20,255.00
£12,208.96
£7,895.00
£1,950.00
£8,171.77
£7,095.52
£1,076.25		 Forecast
Expenditure
£42,308.96
£20,255.00
£12,208.96
£7,895.00
£1,950.00
£8,171.77
£7,095.52
£1,076.25		 Forecast
Expenditure
£42,308.96
£20,255.00
£12,208.96
£7,895.00
£1,950.00
£8,171.77
£7,095.52
£1,076.25		 Forecast
Expenditure
£42,308.96
£20,255.00
£12,208.96
£7,895.00
£1,950.00
£8,171.77
£7,095.52
£1,076.25		 Actual Actual Actual Actual Forecast
Income
£46,090.00		 Actual









Forecast
Balance
£65,815.07		 Actual Notes:
1
2
3
£65,815.07
£306,479.05
£1,490.00
£4,000.00
£0.00
£0.00
£26,400.00
£12,200.00
£0.00
£2,000.00		 £2,121.00
£4,000.00
£0.00
£0.00
£44,230.71
£14,564.82
£198,628.81
£5,697.00
£37,236.71
£259,451.56
£20,255.00
£12,208.96
£7,895.00
£1,950.00
£8,171.77		 £20,554.81
£10,673.56
£6,883.20
£4,739.70
£16,260.70
£200,339.59
£6,039.81
£7,095.52
£1,076.25		 £3,329.00
£414.81
£2,296.00
£61,424.34 £106,802.75
2024 RING FENCED MONIES:-
4)
2024 Committed Expenditure:
2024 Charity Shop Grants to be allocated
2024 Events Grants to be allocated		 2024
£12,887.41
£10,285.08
£12,887.41
£0.00		 £9,785.08
£500.00
5)
2024 S&RT Projects identified to date		 £897.56 £533.24
PO SRT/2SLL - 1st April to 31 Mar 24 Grounds Maintenance Limit of Liability
PO SRT/2Play Inspection Company 1 x Annual, 3 x Op Inspection
PO SRT/2Phil Jeffery - Painting Gates to back of Pavilion
PO SRT/2SLL - Herbicide behind pavilion
PO SRT/2Stable Design Ltd - Website amendment
PO SRT/2SLL - 1st April to 31 Mar 25 Grounds Maintenance Limit of Liability
PO SRT/2Play Inspection Company 1 x Annual, 3 x Op Inspection		 -£457.44
£525.00
£235.00
£95.00
£500.00		 £0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
-£21.76
£555.00
6)
2024 5-Year Plan- Future Projects:		 £2,353.50 £38,335.75
APA Phase 2 Skateboard Park Upgrade @ £165K (Maverick)
Skateboard Park (2024 S106 commuted funds for 5x years maint.)
Safety Netting		 £2,353.50 £4,225.00
£11,223.34
£22,887.41
7)
2024 Proposed Adopted Projects		 £1,500.00 £0.00
Tree Planting - Feb 2022 On Hold
£1,500.00
8)
Stoke Performing Arts Group (SPAG)
£4,183.00
9)
Reserves = 2024 Budget expenses 12/4 months
£14,102.99
Total
£35,924.46
Projected S&RT Balance for 2024/2025
PLUS:- 32 Day Notice Account: 2024 Reserves (Budget expenses) 12/4 months £14,102.90 plus inte		 £1,500.00 £0.00
£4,183.00 £5,140.30
£14,102.99 £0.00
£35,924.46
£25,499.89 £52,508.39
r est

Notes:-

1 Based on Budget Plan Income identified

2 Based on Budget Plan Operating Costs identified

3 Grants as allocated during 2024 - separate detail available.
For Information only:-
Charity Shop Profit
Events Committee Profit		 Forecast
Actual
£14,191.04
£33,557.15
£4,305.00
£7,681.62
£18,496.04
£41,238.77

Stoke sub Hamdon Sports & Recreation Trust

Charity Number 1063874 VAT Number 780 8830 01

2025 Treasurer's Statement V1

S&RT Bank Balance as of End December 2024
1) 2025 Projected Income
Hire of Pitches - Facilities Use
Donations & Grants - Parish Council Grant
Donations & Grants - S106 Commuted Fund
Charity Shop
Events Committee
S&RT (VAT)
2) 2025 Operating Costs
Facilities Maintenance
Charity Shop
Events Committee
S&RT including Skate Jam
3) 2025 Community Sports/Education/Recreation Grants:
Charity Shop
Events Committee
2024 Balance plus 2025 Income minus Expenditure		 Expenditure
£48,422.00
£22,687.00
£13,390.00
£7,495.00
£4,850.00
£11,006.25
£10,105.00
£901.25		 Expenditure
£48,422.00
£22,687.00
£13,390.00
£7,495.00
£4,850.00
£11,006.25
£10,105.00
£901.25		 Expenditure
£48,422.00
£22,687.00
£13,390.00
£7,495.00
£4,850.00
£11,006.25
£10,105.00
£901.25		 Income
£54,700.00		 Balance
£106,802.75		 Notes:
1
2
3
4
£1,750.00
£4,000.00
£2,250.00
£33,600.00
£11,100.00
£2,000.00
£22,687.00
£13,390.00
£7,495.00
£4,850.00
£11,006.25
£10,105.00
£901.25
£102,074.50
2025 RING FENCED MONIES:-
4)
2025 Committed Expenditure:
2024 Charity Shop Committed Grants - World Challenge
2024 May Fayre Committed Grants - SWMC
PO SRT/2024/002
SLL - 1st April to 31 Mar 25 Grounds Maintenance Limit of Liability £6
PO SRT/2024/003
Play Inspection Company 1 x Annual, 3 x Op Inspection		 £4,555.00
£2,000.00
£500.00
£1,500.00
£555.00
5)
2025 S&RT Projects identified to date		 £38,335.75
APA Phase 2 Skateboard Park @ Maverick £4,225 Retainment
Skateboard Park (2024 S106 commuted funds for 5x years maint.)
Safety Netting		 £4,225.00
£11,223.34
£22,887.41
6)
2025 5-Year Plan- Future Projects:		 £17,200.00
Phase 3 - Improved Security
Phase 4 - Improved Access - 5 Bar Gate off Matts Lane
Phase 4 - Improved Access Parking Facility
Phase 4 - Improved access Matts Lane Pedestrian Gates
8)
Stoke Performing Arts Group (SPAG)
Total
Projected S&RT Balance for End 2025
£5,140.30
£36,843.46
32 Day Notice Account (Expenses 12M/4) plus interest @ 2.6% gross pa. 31/12/2024
Notes:-
1
Based on Budget Plan Income identified
2
Based on Budget Plan Operating Costs identified
3
50% of Projected Profit
4
25% of Projected Profit
5
2024 Committed Grants - Charity Shop - World Challenge, Events - SWMC.
6
PO Overspend during 2024, projected balance to complete for 2025.
7
Based on Five Year Strategy		 Charity Shop Profit
Events Committee Profit		 Forecast
£20,210.00
£3,605.00
£23,815.00

Company Internal

COMMUNITY GRANTS IN SUPPORT OF SPORTS, RECREATION AND LEISURE

_Jun-24 _ Village Artists Group, Panel and Pole Display Kit £720.00
_Jun-24 _ Bridgewater College - Stanchester World Challenge (May Fayre) £414.81
_Jul-24 _ SSH Memorial Hall, Stage Side and Back Curtains plus tracking £1,000.00
_Sep-24 _ SSH Memorial Hall - Rangemaster Oven £2,220.00
_Oct-24 _ Lighthouse Coffee Shop - George Foreman Grill £39.00
_Dec-24 _ SSH Memorial Hall - Stage Lighting Project £3,180.80
Jan-Aug 24 Skateboard Park Project £200,339.59
£207,914.20
2012 - 2024 TOTAL GRANTS: £543,637.55

village organisations APPENDIX 2 fora brighter future STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

Stoke Charity Shop Annual Report 2024

1. Introduction

The Stoke Charity Shop has now been open for just over 13 years and continues to prove very successful. That success is due to all of our supporters, both the lovely people who live within our community and kindly donate or buy our pre-loved, and also our fabulous volunteers. We aim to keep our prices reasonable as well as helping the local community whenever we can, from providing grants that meet the values of the Sports and Recreation Trust relating to sports, education or recreation to re-donating items that we have been unable to sell, an example being small-sized baby clothes and other items to Baby Basics – a charity with a branch near Ilminster that supports new mothers who are unable to afford the basic essentials and equipment necessary to look after their newborns.

We are also trying to increase our sales by using Facebook and Marketplace; this is helping us to reach a wider audience as well as bringing new customers to the shop.

2. Volunteers

At the end of December 2024, we were very lucky to have 43 lovely volunteers working with us in the charity shop and/or in our storage unit at the North Street Workshops: this number included our seven Committee members: Denise, Lisa, Jane, Val, Anne, Sue and Helen. Jane stood down as our Treasurer at the end of December and we would like to thank her for the valuable contribution she has made as treasurer and member of the Committee for several years.

Of the 30 shifts available each week, 24 of our volunteers have been working one or more on a regular basis with the remainder making themselves available to fill in as and when needed. Two of our volunteers, Cliff Wenborn and Allan Edwards, kindly undertake the PAT testing of any donated electrical items.

Very sadly Louise Mortimer, one of our active volunteers, passed away very suddenly in 2024 and we would also like to remember Sue Drury, who passed away in December 2024. Sue was a very valued volunteer who was with us for several years, from the first day that the Charity Shop opened until Covid arrived. Another of our volunteers left during the year due to family circumstances

Although we did successfully recruit four new volunteers during 2024, we continue to advertise for additional help to allow us some additional flexibility.

Our volunteers continue to work really well with the World Challenge students that we have from Stanchester Academy, fully supporting and guiding them throughout their shifts in the shop. Two of the students have used their volunteering in the shop towards their Duke of Edinburgh Awards and one student has so enjoyed working with us that she continues to work once a week after completing her requisite thirty hours.

3. Stock and Storage

At the Charity Shop’s AGM in September 2024, it was agreed to introduce an additional position on the Committee – that of Stock Co-ordinator, to help with the management and coordination of the donations we receive thereby maximising the shop’s potential. Val Stidson was co-opted to this role.

The shop needed to find alternative storage facilities during the year for its donations and was extremely fortunate to be able to secure space at Unit 7 in the North Street workshops. This arrangement is working really well.

4. Events

1

village organisations APPENDIX 2 fora brighter future STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

We held a training session for volunteers in February 2024, which had reasonable attendance. We are planning to hold two further training sessions during 2025, one in the afternoon and one in the evening, to provide more flexibility for our volunteers to attend. The volunteers’ summer buffet lunch and Christmas meal, both held at the Prince of Wales, were enjoyed by all. Those volunteers who were unable to attend the Christmas meal were given vouchers from the Community Shop, an amount equivalent to the subsidy granted to those who enjoyed the meal.

Our Christmas decorations and gift sale held in early November raised a total of £550.31 (Sale: £352.91, toy raffle £28.40 and hamper raffle £169). The two raffles continued in the shop during the following week. In addition to the two training and two social events planned for 2025, we will be organising a Fashion Show to take place in September; this will be a fundraiser for the shop.

5. Health and Safety

Health and Safety procedures for volunteers are reviewed on an annual basis. These include Fire Safety; Manual Handling; Accidents and Incidents, and Security.

This year’s review was in the form of an information sheet (sent by email to volunteers/or handed out at the AGM) to be read, signed and returned to the Health and Safety Officer. These are retained electronically or in a designated folder in the Charity Shop. Of the existing volunteers, 31 completed the review form and four volunteers have yet to respond. This is being followed up to ensure full compliance.

New volunteers have evidence of Health and Safety training recorded as part of their orientation.

6. First Aid Kit, Accident, and Incident Books

The shop’s first aid kit is regularly reviewed by the Health and Safety Officer and its contents replaced as and when required.

Review of our Accident Book for 2024 reveals one reported accident involving a volunteer who sustained a minor injury.

A verbal altercation which took place in the shop in December between two customers was recorded in the Incident Book. One of the volunteers on duty was thankfully able to de-escalate the confrontation; however, there was apparently a further verbal exchange between the two customers after they left the shop which involved one of them calling the police. A statement was taken from the said volunteer and as far as we are aware, no further action was taken. The incident was reported to the Chair of the Charity Shop Committee and to the Sports and Recreation Trust.

7. Fire Extinguishers and Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are tested monthly by the Health and Safety Officer with an entry made in the shop diary. Fire Extinguishers are examined annually; these were replaced in December 2023 and checked again in November 2024.

8. Health and Safety for Volunteers working within the storage facility (North Street Workshops)

A review of health and safety within our storage facility has been completed and procedures have been put in place to ensure the safety of volunteers working in this area. An accident book and first aid kit have been ordered for the storage facility.

2

APPENDIX 2 future STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

9. Finances

As seen in the table below, the total amount taken by the Stoke Charity Shop in 2024 was £39,832.79. Included in this total is £706.32 as payments received for recycling; £39.98 obtained from scrap metal, £282.76 from donations, £890.24 from sending books, DVDs and CDs to Ziffit; £1,637.50 from eBay sales; £550.31 from our annual Christmas decoration and gift sale in The Lighthouse, including two raffles; £307.00 from Lawrence’s auction sales and £342.10 from selling Lion’s Rotary Club draw tickets - in all a grand total of £43,882.82.

9.1 Charity Shop monthly takings for 2024 by category

January February March April May June July
Shop takings £3,523.52 £3,498.72 £2,926.82 £2,852.16 £3,515.74 £3,228.77 £3,414.77
Recycling (inc. in
Shop Takings)		 £ 131.63 £ 75.20 £ 53.41 £ 77.51 £ 52.42 £ 40.36 £ 45.71
EBay £ 207.66 £ 177.52 £ 190.59 £ 284.01 £ 214.15 £ 59.66
Ziffit £ 214.67 £ 74.03 £ 28.85 £ 101.53 £ 29.55 £ 91.62 £ 56.58
Donations £ 20.45 £ 24.07 £ 18.93 £ 16.62 £ 89.96 £ 14.08
Lawrences £ 227.00 £ 55.00
Rotary draw £ 342.10
Scrap metal £ 39.98
Sales/events
TOTAL £4,172.85 £4,152.80 £3,170.33 £3,256.63 £3,776.06 £3,465.35 £3,545.09
August September October November December TOTALS
Shop takings £3,212.52 £2,602.65 £3,730.14 £3,857.34 £3,469.64 £39,832.79
Recycling (inc. in
Shop Takings)		 £ 33.50 £ 56.67 £ 62.46 £ 52.85 £ 24.60 £ 706.15
EBay £ 18.37 £ 59.13 £ 200.20 £ 125.00 £ 101.21 £ 1,637.50
Ziffit £ 17.88 £ 88.31 £ 80.14 £ 46.95 £ 60.13 £ 810.10
Donations £ 19.60 £ 23.68 £ 9.98 £ 29.44 £ 15.95 £ 272.78
Lawrences £ 25.00 £ 307.00
Rotary draw £ 342.10
Scrap metal £ 39.98
Sales/events £352.91 Xmas
£197.40 draw		 £ 550.31
TOTAL £3,268.37 £2,798.77 £4,020.46 £4,609.04 £3,646.93 £43,882.68

The incredible progress achieved by our small shop over the past seven years can be seen in the Annual Sales Figures table.

3

APPENDIX 2 future STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

9.2 Annual Sales Figures 2018-2024

2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
January £2677.67 £2855.15 £2307.09 N/A £2176.09 £3259.11 £4172.85
February £2177.62 £2187.72 £2125.73 N/A £2624.03 £3160.82 £4152.80
March £1980.80 £2515.34 £1228.07 £2096.00 £2529.92 £3434.30 £3170.77
April £2462.38 £2062.62 £ 196.10 £2797.41 £2466.26 £2791.90 £3256.77
May £2786.65 £2798.09 £ 167.00 £2403.60 £2764.61 £3136.05 £3776.06
June £2683.55 £2043.14 £ 178.67 £2384.31 £2023.31 £3152.62 £3465.35
July £2374.92 £1979.26 £2414.19 £2547.75 £2771.61 £3103.32 £3545.09
August £2073.82 £2048.65 £2776.15 £2599.71 £2729.67 £3117.09 £3268.37
September £3302.09 £2068.93 £2334.31 £2692.84 £2641.38 £3364.00 £2798.77
October £2706.26 £2746.36 £2519.00 £2750.28 £2804.14 £3163.79 £4020.46
November £2638.51 £2661.67 £ 589.41 £3766.25 £3350.63 £3660.24 £4609.04
December £1933.37 £1598.87 £2657.65 £2229.25 £2456.28 £3712.93 £3646.93
TOTAL £29797.64 £27565.80 £19493.37 £26267.40 £31337.9 £39055.36 £43882.82

The table below shows expenditure for the shop during the year and we are delighted to be able to report a profit of over £33,000.

9.3 Charity Shop Annual Expenditure

Staff
Events
(£1300)		 Shop
Maint.
(£1100)		 Petty
Cash
(£900)		 Training
Events
(£200)		 External
Sales
(Shows
etc)		 Rent &
Utilities		 Insurance
licences
etc
January £ 27.37 £ 75 £ 645.32 £225.00
February £ 44.17 £ 75 £ 11.93 £ 721.85
March £ 65.46 £ 75 £ 511.58
April £ 17.98 £ 75 £ 588.97
May £ 77.73 £ 517.20
June £ 75 £ 491.29
July £ 350.57 £ 56.60 £ 494.88
August £ 43.21 £ 75 £188.00 £ 492.55
September £ 46.00 £ 75 £ 497.92 £ 14.64
October £430.10 £ 75 £ 511.10 £437.35
November £ 26.93 £ 75 £65.25 £ 531.51
December £ 912.65 £ 22.33 £ 600.66 £259.24
TOTAL £1263.22 £857.88 £675 £199.93 £65.25 £6604.83 £936.23

We have made a steady stream of grants to various organisations and individuals. Four of our young people within the community each received grants of £500 as a contribution towards their forthcoming

4

village organisations APPENDIX 2 fora brighter future STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

world challenge experiences after completing 30 hours of voluntary work in the shop. The Stoke sub Hamdon Brownies received £350 towards their Somerset County Camp; the Village Artists Group £720 for some panel and pole display kits; the Memorial Hall £2,220.00 for a Rangemaster oven as part of their kitchen renovations, and The Lighthouse £39.00 for a new George Foreman Grill for use when they are open for refreshments on Monday mornings. Overall, a total of £5,329 to help our community.

Therefore, another excellent year and we are very much looking forward to seeing what we can achieve in 2025.

5

APPENDIX 3 STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST EVENTS COMMITTEE

The Sports and Recreation Trust was extremely pleased to be able to return to Stanchester Academy in 2024 to hold its May Fayre as the venue has proved to be an ideal location with plenty of room for parking plus the added advantage of the school’s amazingly helpful and efficient facilities team.

Unfortunately, we were not so lucky with the weather in 2024 with heavy rainfall leading up to the event and also several episodes on the day. Indeed, we seriously thought on the evening prior to the May Fayre that we would need to cancel it. Despite the weather, attendance was good but proceedings did come to an abrupt halt at around 4 pm due to a very heavy downfall. I’d like to particularly mention Castle Primary School’s maypole dancers and the South Petherton majorettes as they so very bravely carried on dancing in the pouring rain whilst absolutely soaked.

We managed to book 93 stalls and the indoor stall holders were the ones smiling in 2024 as the Sports Hall was packed with members of the public sheltering from the rain! As always, we welcomed back our regular stallholders as well as many new additions, which was great.

We had a good variety of entertainment throughout the day. As well as the children from Castle Primary School and the South Petherton Majorettes, we welcomed Stoke Band, the Organic Rhythm Drummers, Enigma Border Morris Dancers, Krazy Kev and Dinky Dino, Paul Wheeler’s Punch and Judy show, Infinity Marshall Arts, a falconry display and also our very popular dog show generously sponsored by Isle Valley Vets.

Despite the dreadful weather, we achieved a profit of just over £7,000 which was a great result and plans are already well underway for 2025’s May Fayre.

I would like to thank all our great volunteers and supporters of the May Fayre as without all these great people behind us, this event would not be possible.

Denise Burton

Stoke sub Hamdon Sports and Recreation Trust’s Events Committee

APPENDIX 4 STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

Stoke Performing Arts Group

Stoke sub Hamdon Sports and Recreation Trust

Annual Report 2024

In 2024 , Stoke Performing Arts Group has continued to build on its successes of previous years, undertaking two major productions during this time.

Our first production for this year, performed in Feb 24, was a pantomime, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk ‘so a real departure from our previous ones and a very new challenge! The pantomime script was penned by a Stoke resident, Jon Newman, who also took on the role of Artistic Director for this production. Being written by a village resident, meant that there were plenty of local references and humour to be included and it had a huge appeal to a wide range of ages from the very young to the group that came along from a local care home for older people.

The ambitious set required to accompany the show meant that the scenery and props were very demanding and the team who took on this behind-the-scenes role, did a fantastic job and worked incredibly hard to produce a memorable experience. A new backdrop canvas was purchased and 2 ‘periaktoi ‘triple sided sets of stage flats were built and painted to reflect the different scenes, as well as a growing beanstalk and a castle in the sky! Whilst the expenditure for this production was well above our previous ones, at nearly £2000.00, the sets and scenic canvas are both good investments for the future and will definitely be utilised again.

We were also fortunate to recruit two young people from Stanchester School to help us with our lighting and sound and an excellent keyboard player to provide us with musical accompaniment. As with all productions it goes without saying, that the huge effort on everyone’s behalf both on the stage and behind the scenes must be acknowledged and appreciated.

The production was a huge success – with good ticket sales on the Thursday and Friday performances and a sell out on the Saturday matinee and evening, bringing in an overall profit of £1510.00.

As the panto was largely aimed at families, at each of the performances FOCS were given the opportunity to sell ‘magic’ bracelets and wands to raise much needed funds for Castle Primary School.

Our second production was a Murder Mystery Dinner ‘Death Before Dessert ‘, penned and directed by Helen Frances and Angela Hodges. Held over two evenings in November, dinner guests were invited to sit down to a wonderful three course meal, interact with the characters taking part, whilst the murder mystery plot unfolded, literally in front of their eyes. Suspects were interviewed by the police and the audience were invited to guess the murderer, before all the answers were revealed at the end of the evening.

It cannot be stressed enough, that this memorable event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of head chef, Ian Barnett, his wife Brenda and the group of kitchen helpers who worked so hard to produce and serve a fantastic three course meal to approximately 70 people each night .

Both evenings were a complete sell out and despite the considerable outgoings for ingredients etc , SPAG was still able to make a profit of £768.01 . These outgoings were reduced significantly by the very kind donations of beef and potatoes from Castle Farm, Stoke, which provided the basis for the main course.

APPENDIX 4 STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

Our thanks must also go to Paul Goulder who stepped into role at the very last moment and ‘save the show’, when one of the actors with a significant role, was too ill to perform.

As the first performance coincided with the ‘Children in Need ‘fundraising day , the decision was made to share the proceeds of the evening’s raffle to this charity and the Hamdon Youth and Family Centre . With a total of £87.00 donated to these causes.

During the year, SPAG have held two social events for its members, families and friends. At the first, following the pantomime, the video footage, taken of the show ,by Corinna Churchill was enjoyed by the group , along with a hot supper . We also invited John Allan, Chair of SS&RT , to speak about how SPAG fits into the wider Trust and the benefits that brings to our group .

A second, was held at Stoke Club in September, where members enjoyed a Sunday skittles afternoon and a ploughmen’s buffet.

During 2024, SPAG has worked in partnership with Stoke Memorial Hall committee to bid for a Section 106 grant of £4000.00 to enable the installation of a permanent stage lighting facility at the hall. This has included writing a specification, going out to tender, identifying a preferred supplier and making an application to Somerset Council for the funding. The application was successful, and the work will proceed in February 2025, with an additional funding contribution of £1984.00 from SPAG towards the overall cost.

We are now excitedly looking forward to utilising these new facilities in February 2025, when SPAG and friends will be producing our first ever ‘SPAGtacular’ variety show. The aim of this event will be to showcase the many talented performers in our community, involve other groups from the village and encourage the recruitment of some new members!

Over the past year Stoke Performing Arts Group has provided two very successful productions which have appealed to a wide range of audiences from our community. This would not be possible without the continued support it receives from local businesses, groups, and individuals in the village and particularly from the Stoke -sub-Hamdon Sports & Recreation Trust, which is greatly appreciated.

Jeanie Augarde

On Behalf of Stoke Performing Arts Group.

organisations APPENDIX 5 brighter Sifuture STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024

STOKE YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB

The 2024-2025 season started by sadly losing Tim Brookes as our Chair and biggest cheerleader, we celebrated at an end of season presentation with a cup known as The Brookes Volunteer cup which will then be passed to a volunteer each season. We thank Tim for his many years of service for Stoke Youth.

Adam Maher has taken on the Chair mantle, with Alex Brookes continuing as Treasurer, Tammy Cooney as Secretary and Kim Campbell as Welfare Officer. We currently have

Minis – run by Dan Garrod and Aaron Clements – they have done their own fundraising, and this has ensured that they have continued winter training at Stanchester rather than having to stop in October. Aaron has been a great addition to the club as he works for Somerset FA in authorising grants. His knowledge has been extremely useful. Thanks to Dan, Aaron & Becca.

U10’s run by Mark Ryan and 2 volunteer parents – mixed season with wins and losses. Monday night training

U12’s - Adam Maher and James Bennett. At the end of 23/24 season we saw Rob move on, and this meant we had a pure u12’s team. Again, mixed fortunes so far but a good number of players signed on, ready to recruit for next season when they go to 11v11. Thursday night training. Adam did a week of training/fun in the summer which was really well attended.

U13’s - Joe Marriott & young volunteer. Joe this year has a pure u13’s team after running a mixed age group last season. This team has managed to get a couple of wins under their belt which is brilliant for a virtually new team. Friday night training.

U14's – Lee Uhlyk & Drew Harrison. Purely under 14’s team from September. Lee and Drew ran a summer camp in August to raise funds to provide training jackets. Started off the year with just about enough players but now up to 18 drawing in from Yeovil schools. Friday night training.

U15’s - Shaun Edwards. Amazing start to the season for Shaun after he took over from Dexter Ballam. As this is written the u15’s have not lost any games this season! Amazing achievement!

Plans for the future include starting an u14’s girls team so look out for SM posts and watch this space!

Stoke Youth would like to thank the Trust for their continued support. We are proud to say that due to the financial support we have not increased the sign on fees now for a few years. This has ensured that Stoke Youth’s ethos of a friendly, welcoming environment, to children of all abilities, has continued. We want players to play regardless of score, as evidenced by the 100 players signed on.

Looking forward to a continued positive reciprocal relationship for 2025.

APPENDIX 6 STOKE SUB HAMDON FOOTBALL CLUB ANNUAL REPORT

STOKE SUB HAMDON MEN’S FOOTBALL ANNUAL REPORT

Firstly, I would like to say a big thank you the Rec Trust Committee for another year of supporting us in lots of ways.

As a club we are now in our 122nd year, so obviously a lot has changed over the years but I think one thing that has not changed is it gives the local community a chance to train on a Tuesday evening and play a competitive game on a Saturday.

We play in the Yeovil and District league. We run two teams with FA trained coaches and trained first aiders for both teams.

We have over 70 players ranging from 50-16 years old signed on which for a club the size of Stoke is fantastic.

We try and interact with the youth teams to try and get the 16 year olds to come and play men’s football when they’re too old for the youth teams, which has been very successful over the years.

At the time of writing this, the 1st Team are 4th in the league and still in three cup competitions. The Reserves are 6th in the league and still in the Divisional Cup, so have all to play for.

The last two years we’ve run a race nights at the Stoke Working Men’s Club which have been very successful social and fund raising events for the club going forward, which were very well attended and supported by the community.

This concludes the football club’s annual report.

Steve Deane Chairman

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS AND RECREATION TRUST

ACCOUNTS

FOR

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 2024

CONTENTS

Item Page
Trust Information 2
Treasurers Statement 3
Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31stDecember 2023 4
Balance Sheet 5
Notes of Financial Statements 6
Statement by Independent Examiner 8

Page 1 of 9

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

Trust Information for the Year Ended 31 December 2024

The Sports and Recreation Trust is an unincorporated charitable association. It was established in 1997 to provide sports and recreation facilities for the Stoke sub Hamdon area, with the following objects:

To advance education and provide facilities in the interests of social welfare without distinction of religion, sex or politics or other opinions for recreation and leisure time occupation with the object of improving the conditions of life for the inhabitants of the area of benefit.

Three Honorary Officers, the Chairman, the Treasurer and the Secretary, are elected annually from amongst the Trustees:

Officers:

Mr John Allan Chairman Mrs Rebecca Merrick Treasurer Mr Peter Hulett Secretary

Registered Charity Number: 1063874 VAT Number: 780 8830 01 Bankers: Lloyds Bank PLC 9 High St Yeovil Somerset BA20 1RN

Trustee Signature:

QC > - ………………………. we \ ees>SN= Peter Hulett Secretary For and on behalf of the Stoke sub Hamdon Sports and Recreation Trust

Page 2 of 9

CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

Statement by Trustee Treasurer

The Sports & Recreation Trust employs a qualified Independent Accountant, to examine the books for the past year from January 1[st] to December 31[st] 2024.

The Trust started the year with an opening bank balance of £65,815.07 and the closing bank balance as of December, once reconciled with outstanding credits and debits, was £106,802.75. The budget income and expenditure for 2025 reduces this balance to £102,074.50.

This total incorporates the following grants and monies that are committed expenditure:

2024 Charity Shop Grants–World Challenge £2,000.00
2024 May Fayre Committed Grants–SWMC £500.00
SLL Grounds Maintenance contract- 1 April 24 to 31 Mar 25–PO
SRT/2024/002 (Estimated budget to complete).		 £1,500.00
Play Inspections - Full Year Service for 2024 x 3 plus 1 annual–PO
SRT/2024/003		 £555.00
APA Phase 2 Skateboard Park @ Maverick £4,225 Retainment £4,225.00
Skateboard Park (2024 S106 commuted funds for 5x years maint.) £11,223.34
Safety Netting £22,887.41
APA Phase 3 - Improved Security £5,400.00
APA Phase 4 - Improved Access - 5 Bar Gate off Matts Lane £2,800.00
APA Phase 4 - Improved Access Parking Facility £3,000.00
APA Phase 4 - Improved access Matts Lane Pedestrian Gates £6,000.00
Stoke Performing Arts Group £5,140.30
Total £65,231.05

In addition, we have a separate bank account for S&RT Reserves totalling £14,136.92 as of 31 December 2024.

With the above excluded, the Trust has a total of £36,843.46 available for 2025.

A breakdown of all financial transactions is shown on the following pages.

Rebecca Merrick Treasurer, SSH Sports & Recreation Trust February 2025

Page 3 of 9

CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024

INCOME & EXPENDITURE

Restricted Unrestricted
INCOME Notes Funds Funds Total 2023
Donations & Grants 6 130,340 4,429 134,769 24,000
Fundraising Activities 7 20,262 20,262 23,199
Misc Income - - 22,870
Hire of Pitches 2,121 2,121 2,020
Charity Shop 44,231 44,231 39,764
Vat Refund 36,885 36,885 3,830
Gift Aid 0 0 505
Bank Interest Received 653 653 704
130,340 108,581 238,921 116,892
DIRECT CHARITABLE EXPENDITURE
Charity Shop - Rent & Rates 5,955 5,955 6,080
Charity Shop - Electricity & Water 714 714 992
Charity Shop - Maintenance 976 976 1,006
Charity Shop - Volunteer Training 246 246 40
Projects 200,340 6,040 206,380 6,224
Insurance 859 859 718
Facilities Management - Property Maintenance Facilities Management - Property Maintenance 4,049 4,049 4,053
Facilities Management - Equipment Maintenance 5,400 5,400 11,887
Facilities Management - Ground Maintenance 11,674 11,674 10,761
Depreciation 21 21 25
200,340 35,934 236,273 41,786
OTHER EXPENDITURE
Miscellaneous Expenses 3,026 3,026 3,041
Fundraising Costs 11,688 11,688 13,462
Professional Fees 280 280 280
0 14,994 14,994 16,783
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 200,340 50,928 251,267 91,762
Net (deficit)/surplus of income
over expenditure for the year (70,000) 57,653 (12,347) 58,324
Fund Balances brought forward 22,117 112,519 134,636 76,312
Fund Balances carried forward (47,883) 170,172 122,289 134,636

Page 4 of 9

VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

CHARITY NO 1063874

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

----- Start of picture text -----
Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024
Notes 2024 2023
FIXED ASSETS £ £ £ £
Tangible Assets 2 120 141
120 141
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors 3 1,360 1,282
Balance at Bank 121,090 133,493
Cash in Hand - -
122,450 134,775
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Sundry Creditors
Accruals 4 280 280
280 280
NET CURRENT ASSETS 122,170 134,495
NET ASSETS 122,289 134,636
REPRESENTED BY
Unrestricted Income Fund
General Purpose Fund 170,172 112,519
- -
Designated Fund
170,172 112,519
RESTRICTED INCOME FUND
Skate Park (47,883) 22,117
122,289 134,636
----- End of picture text -----

Page 5 of 9

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024

1 Accounting Policies

Accounting Convention

The accounts have been prepared on the historical cost convention and are in accordance with the applicable accounting standards, the Charities SORP 2005 (Accounting and Reporting by Charities) and comply with the Charities (Accounts & Reposts) Regulations 2005 issued under the Charities Act 1993

Depreciation

Depreciation is provided on fixed assets at the following rates, based on the estimated useful life of these assets, and their anticipated residual value

Equipment - 15% Reducing Balance

2 Fixed Assets - used by the Charity

----- Start of picture text -----
Equipment
Cost £
At 1 January 2024 3,801
Additions
At 31 December 2024 3,801
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024 3,660
Charge for Year 21
At 31 December 2024 3,681
Net Book Value
At 31 December 2024 120
At 31 December 2023 141
3 Debtors 2024 2023
£ £
- -
Sundry Debtors
Vat Debtor 1,282 536
1,282 536
4 Creditors
Creditors & Accruals 280 280
280 280
----- End of picture text -----

Page 6 of 9

CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024

**5 ** Summary of Net Assets by Funds
Fixed Assets Net Current
Assets		 Net Assets
Unrestricted Funds £ £ £
General Purpose 120 170,052 170,172
Restricted Income Fund
Ringfenced Projects (Skate Park) (47,883) (47,883)
120 122,169 122,289
**6 ** Donations & Grants 2024 2023
Unrestricted Grants £ £
Stoke sub Hamdon Parish Council 4,000 4,000
Donations 429
4,429 4,000
Restricted Grants
Clark Foundation 10,000
Bernard Sunley Foundation 10,000
Parish Council 10,000
Somerset Council 100,340
Somerset Community Association - 5,000
Garfield Weston - 15,000
130,340 20,000
134,769 24,000
2024
Fundraising Activities Organisers Proceeds Net
7 May Fayre 6,948 14,565 7,617
Stoke Performing Arts Group 4,740 5,697 957
11,688 20,262 8,574

Page 7 of 9

CHARITY NO 1063874 VAT NO 780 8830 01

STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST

----- Start of picture text -----
by CHARITY COMMISSION Independent examiner's report on the
FOR ENGLAND AND WALES accounts
Section A Independent Examiner’s Report
Report to the trustees/ Charity Name
members of STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST
On accounts for the year 31/12/2024 Charity no 1063874
ended (if any)
Set out on pages 1-4
(remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets)
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above
charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31/12/2023
Responsibilities and As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the
basis of report accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011
(“the Act”) .
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out
under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I
have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission
under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent [ The charity ’ s gross income exceeded £250,000 and I am qualified to
examiner's statement undertake the examination by being a qualified member of [insert name of
applicable listed body]]. Delete [ ] if not applicable.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have
come to my attention in connection with the examination ( other than that
disclosed below ) which gives me cause to believe that in, any material
respect:
• the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130
of the Charities Act; or
• the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or
• the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements
concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 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.
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.
 Please delete the words in the brackets if they do not apply.
Date: 08/09/2025
Signed:
Name: OLIVIA ADAMS
IER 1 Oct 2018
----- End of picture text -----

Page 8 of 9

----- Start of picture text -----
STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST
CHARITY NO 1063874
VAT NO 780 8830 01
Relevant professional FMAAT
qualification(s) or body
(if any):
Address: Hope Farm, Sticklynch, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8NA
Section B Disclosure
Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern
(see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and
guidance for examiners).
Give here brief details of
any items that the
examiner wishes to
disclose .
IER 2 Oct 2018
----- End of picture text -----

Page 9 of 9

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report

Report to the trustees/ Charity Name STOKE SUB HAMDON SPORTS & RECREATION TRUST members of On accounts for the year 31/12/2024 Charity no 1063874 ended (if any) Set out on pages 1-4 (remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets) I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31/12/2023 Responsibilities and As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the basis of report accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination ( ~~other than that disclosed below *)~~ which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

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.

Date: 08/09/2025

Signed: Name: OLIVIA ADAMS

1

Oct 2018

IER

Relevant professional FMAAT qualification(s) or body (if any):

Address: Hope Farm, Sticklynch, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8NA

Section B Disclosure

Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners).

Give here brief details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose .

2

Oct 2018

IER