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2023-12-31-accounts

HILL CLOSE NS r-*r A YLar iii RLI'ILII, & Aiiiiual RLport

A Year in Review & Annual Report

Managed by a small charitable Trust, Hill Close Gardens relies on the generous support of many individuals, groups and organisations to continue to operate the site for the benefit of its many thousands of annual visitors.

The Victorians who first enjoyed these Gardens wanted pleasure, privacy, and peace. Today, we aim to recreate for our visitors that concept of Victorian Pleasure Gardens.

Whether through visiting, telling others about Hill Close, donating, Membership, volunteering, venue hire, attending our events and much, much more, your support is both vital and very, very much appreciated, thank you.

Contents

Hill Close Gardens Trust

Registered charity 1085278 Registered company 03981067, limited by guarantee Registered & principal office Bread & Meat Close, Warwick, CV34 6HP

2

Hill Close Gardens is a gem in the heart of Warwick

ill Close Gardens is a gem in the heart of Warwick. Our unique attraction boasts a Hcollection of 16 restored Victorian Pleasure gardens , each with its own unique character and charm. Visitors can step back in time and experience the elegance and romance of the Victorian era.

The gardens were originally built in the late 19th century as a recreational retreat for the residents of Warwick. Each garden was designed and tended by its owner, and served as a place for them to relax, entertain guests and grow exotic plants . Over the years, the gardens fell into disrepair and were eventually forgotten. Until around the year 2000…

For almost 25 years, Hill Close Gardens has undergone a stunning restoration . The restoration process involved the careful preservation of the original garden features, such as the summerhouses and greenhouses as well as the introduction of new planting schemes that reflect the original designs.

Visitors to Hill Close Gardens are free to roam around the 16 gardens. The gardens are a peaceful haven of beauty and tranquillity , with colourful blooms, fragrant flowers, and lush greenery.

For those interested in history, Hill Close Gardens offers a wealth of information about the Victorian era and its social customs. Visitors can learn about the

various gardening styles and techniques that were popular during this time, and the importance of gardening as a leisure activity.

In addition to its rich history, Hill Close Gardens also offers a range of activities and events throughout the year. From guided tours and workshops to family activities and picnics, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll through the peaceful gardens or relax with a cup of tea in the tearoom during spring and summer weekends.

Hill Close Gardens is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and fascinating day out in Warwick.

With its beautiful gardens, rich history, and peaceful surroundings, this hidden treasure is sure to captivate visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are a gardener, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Hill Close Gardens has something for everyone .

3

Objective of the Trust

The objective of the Trust is to manage, preserve and maintain Warwick’s restored 16 Victorian pleasure gardens as a charitable trust.

We aim to develop the site as a welcoming, environmentally responsible, and financially sustainable , visitor attraction for all ages and abilities.

We aim to inform, engage, and inspire people so they enjoy the Gardens’ horticultural relevance and social history.

We recognise and support the importance of a visit to the gardens as being important and beneficial to peoples’ health and wellbeing .

Public Benefit

The Trust has provided a public benefit to Warwick townspeople and its visitors by:

Board of Trustees

The Directors of the Trust, as defined in the Companies Act 2006, are also Charity Trustees for the purposes of charity law.

At the date of this report the Trustees are (alphabetically by surname):

In accordance with the Articles of Association Warwick District Council can nominate up to four Trustees, and Plant Heritage one Trustee but both have chosen not to do so.

The Warwick Society, as an organisation that supports the Trust, may also nominate one. This body is represented on the Board by Jenny Lamb. She is the only Trustee with disclosable interests.

4

Structure and governance

Trustees are selected and appointed to bring a balance of skills to the board, including horticultural, legal, and financial skills. Trustees hold office for a period of three years and retire by rotation at the Annual General Meeting. A trustee may be appointed mid-term to fill a casual vacancy but must be elected by the members at the subsequent Annual General Meeting.

The Trustees are responsible for policy and strategic governance, safeguarding of the Charity's assets, provision of adequate funding to maintain the Gardens, fulfilling its legal obligations, and its obligations to stakeholders including the Heritage Lottery Fund, English Heritage, Warwick District Council and Warwick Town Council. The Trust uses a Management and Maintenance plan as the source for all details of its governance.

The Trustees have a risk strategy which comprises of:

Professional advisers

Bankers

CAF Bank Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent, ME19 4TA

Solicitors

Blythe Liggins Edmund House, Rugby Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV32 6EL

Accountants

Duo Accountants 11 Dormer Place, Leamington Spa, CV32 5AA

Independent examiner

Henry Leaver BA (Hons) MAAT 26 Minster Road, Coventry, CV1 3AF

5

The Hill Close Gardens Team

Our Employees

In 2023, we were delighted to promote Matt Nolan , previously our part-time Business Development Officer, to the position of Manager, Hill Close Gardens . Matt’s proactive strategy and exceptional management of our heritage site has been instrumental in the growth and success of Hill Close Gardens in the year.

Our much-valued Head Gardener, Neil Munro , continued his outstanding work in managing all aspects of the gardens. He skilfully supervised and guided both gardening staff and volunteers, with the dedicated assistance of our team members.

We are especially grateful to our Tea Room Supervisor, May Tsai , who took on additional management responsibilities alongside Matt , and committed to increased hours working for the Gardens.

Our diligent Caretakers, Peter Stayt and Richard Holmes , provided invaluable support to the Trust, assisting with out-ofhours visitor centre operations and ensuring the security of the Gardens.

The collaborative efforts of May, Neil, Matt, Peter and Richard si gnificantly benefited the Trust , and we deeply appreciate their hard work and dedication.

Our Volunteers

The beauty and excellence of our gardens are made possible by the tireless efforts of our wonderful volunteers . From plot volunteers to members of the Garden Team, their commitment and passion are invaluable to us.

Each volunteer, especially those dedicated to specific plots and borders, brings a unique touch that honours the historical essence of the gardens.

Our volunteers play a vital role in:

The Board of Trustees recognises the indispensable contributions of our volunteers to the maintenance and smooth running of the Gardens.

We are always eager to welcome new volunteers to join our community and help with various activities and maintenance tasks. Find out more at:

hillclosegardens.com/people/supportus/become-a-volunteer

The Trustees extend heartfelt thanks to all staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to the promotion and operation of the Gardens.

Thank you for making Hill Close Gardens a thriving and beautiful place for everyone to enjoy!

6

Annual Report for the year ending 31st December 2023

HIL e Close » ARDENS!

Performance Highlights

e are delighted to share the W remarkable progress and successes of Hill Close Gardens achieved in 2023.

Our historic gardens welcomed more than 8,500 visitors , an impressive 22% increase from 2022, resulting in a substantial boost in admissions

income of £21,662 from last year's £17,184. Group Visits also surged, contributing £3,008 compared to £1,954 in the previous year.

The weekend Tearoom became a popular spot, with revenue climbing to £18,444 from £13,367, while our on-site shop saw sales grow to £2,301 from £1,816. Additionally, the Lammas Room experienced a notable increase in bookings for private events, generating £32,320 compared to £26,955 in the previous year.

Our collaborations and promotions with the RHS brought in 539 visitors, maintaining a strong interest from the previous year. This partnership continues to be a vital source of new and returning guests.

Despite facing higher costs, including payroll and energy, the Hill Close Gardens Trust has successfully launched several significant projects, such as garden-wide Wi-Fi , water harvesting , and composting systems . These initiatives are expected to streamline our operations and enhance resource management in the future.

We are incredibly proud of our financial and operational achievements in 2023 and i mmensely grateful for the

unwavering support from our visitors , volunteers, members, donors, partners, and – of course – our dedicated staff. Everyone’s contributions have made these successes possible.

It is heartening to see so many people enjoying the Gardens, taking advantage of our facilities, workshops, and plant sales . We were also delighted to welcome new volunteers from our membership, further enriching our community.

The Trust deeply appreciates the continued support from everyone involved . Together, we will keep sharing our passion for these unique and beautiful gardens, ensuring they remain a source of delight for all.

8

Success in the Gardens

he start of 2023 was highlighted by a T very successful Snowdrop weekend in February, where we showcased 76 varieties and made impressive sales, earning £2,340 from plants and £139 from produce.

To address the rising cost of mowing (£480 per month), we made the strategic decision to hire an in-house gardener for hedge trimming and lawn mowing.

Although his tenure was short, we took on the mowing for the rest of the year, which provided valuable insights into our needs.

Excitingly, we are now trialling a Robot Mower , expected to start saving us money from September 2024. We also received funding to

purchase a small, user-friendly mower for volunteers and plan to replace one of the older petrol mowers with a new, efficient model.

We are thrilled to have secured funding for two important projects:

a rainwater collection system for the large greenhouse and;

The collected rainwater will be used to irrigate the Nursery, allowing us to liquid feed the pots efficiently without any risk of backflow into the mains system.

The new windrow system will simplify compost management , enabling more frequent turning of the heaps with help from our dedicated volunteers.

Our n ew shredder will reduce woody and hedge trimmings to compostable size and allow us to use the shredded material directly on the plots, making hedge maintenance more sustainable.

Volunteer numbers in the Gardens

are on the rise , with an average of 12 volunteers on both Wednesdays and Thursdays, and five throughout the rest of the week. Many volunteers have also taken on the responsibility of managing specific garden areas.

Our staff and trainees are integral to our success . Alison Taylor continues to manage the Nursery and oversee the Martinique contract one day per week, while Neil Munroe leads as Head Gardener five days a week. We welcomed Louisa Hart as a WRAGS trainee in September 2023, and Tina McConomy supported us from September 2023 to May 2024.

With the dedication of our team and volunteers, we look forward to continuing our growth and success.

Neil Munroe , Head Gardener Hill Close Gardens

9

Operational Achievements

ur dedicated team has worked O tirelessly to maintain our five day and seven day opening schedules throughout the winter and summer , respectively.

We have faced staffing constraints and are seeking more volunteer support to continue our proactive work.

Revenue Growth

We saw a remarkable 17% increase in gross till sales from £69,959 in 2022 to £81,751 in 2023.

Enhanced Offerings

We have overhauled our Hallmaster system and website hire page, adding regular bookings and updating rates. Increasing room hire remains a key focus for 2024.

Visitor Statistics

Total visitors: 8,518 (+22% vs 2022)

Adults: 4,238 Children: 491 Members: 1,214 RHS Members: 539 Tea Room Only: 497

Visitor Spending

The average spend per visitor slightly decreased to £9.60 from £9.93, impacted by rising operational costs.

Cost Effective Marketing

Despite reducing our marketing budget to £1,136 from £5,695 in 2022, our visitor numbers grew significantly

We will continue focusing on free or low cost marketing channels in 2024, leveraging our outstanding website and social media channels.

Room Hire Success:

Income Boost: Room hire income increased by 18% from 2022, aided by the new booking system which has streamlined our operations.

10

Operational Achievements

Enhanced Offerings

We have overhauled our Hallmaster system and website hire page, adding regular bookings and updating rates. Increasing room hire remains a key focus for 2024.

Visitor Statistics

Total visitors: 8,518 (+22% vs 2022)

Adults: 4,238 Children: 491 Members: 1,214 RHS Members: 539 Tea Room Only: 497

Events:

Apple Day

Snowdrop Weekend

Theatre Performances

Technological Advancements:

In 2023, we implemented several key technologies to enhance our operations, which enables us to engage with our membership and interested parties to the benefit of the Gardens.

Looking Ahead

We are optimistic about the future and committed to overcoming our challenges. With continued community support, volunteer engagement, and strategic enhancements, Hill Close Gardens Trust is poised for a successful and thriving 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication.

New Initiatives

Matt Nolan Manager Hill Close Gardens

11

Educational Engagement

n 2023, we experienced a steady I start, much like in 2022, with a slow beginning for the ‘ Grow and Explore Drop-In ’ sessions. This was partly due to the opening of two new parent and toddler groups in the area, one of which offered free sessions, making it a popular choice.

However, as the year progressed, we saw a significant increase in attendance , thanks to our enhanced social media efforts. We also updated our informational leaflets for parents and carers to include the full year's schedule, making them readily available for visiting families on weekends.

Although the Playworker position remained unfilled, easing financial pressures, we are recruiting for this role in 2024. We are thankful to members from other teams who stepped in to help during larger events, strengthening our collaborative efforts - the spirit of teamwork shone through!

Our school visits were a highlight, with Newburgh School bringing 77 children in June and November, and Westgate School bringing 59 children in March and July.

Our Family Workshops were a hit

Feb: Frost & Feathers: 20 families June: Bugs: 30 families Aug: Bears’ Picnic, 36 families Oct: Hedgehog Day: 25 families

Overall, we welcomed 346 paying children (excluding Apple Day), generating an income of £1,133.50. While a 28% decrease from the previous year, this was due to adverse weather conditions and fewer school bookings. Schools cited reduced budgets and transport costs as the reasons for fewer off-site visits.

We also made significant strides in Safeguarding Training , with 70% of our volunteers and paid staff completing the training, with the remainder pledging to attend training in 2024. This will help us to ensure that Hill Close Gardens is a safe and secure environment at for everyone involved.

We're excited about the progress we've made and look forward to continuing our efforts to engage and support our community.

Chris Wainwright Education Coordinator & Trustee Hill Close Gardens

12

our Mission

What we do every day, and always will

our VISION

How we are working for a successful future

13

Delivering our vision

Our plan for a successful future

Objective 1

Preserve the integrity of our horticulturally historic site married with eco-friendly

advancements, develop innovative and relevant practices & advancements so the Gardens remain a financially sustainable and environmentally responsible attraction for visitors

Strategy :

Objective 2

Succeed by ensuring that Hill Close Gardens is a welcoming and informative green space – for our volunteers, visiting garden enthusiasts, social history lovers, and families

Objective 3

To be powered by people with a passion for

the Gardens , as they first were 100+ years ago when they were a place for people who had a need and passion for having their own green space

Strategy :

Strategy :

14

Financial Report FY2023

2 donations from members and visitors alike who have helped fund much needed023 was a marked improvement in terms of income thanks to the generous work at Hill Close Gardens.

Adjusting for depreciation - an on-paper expense - our realised loss for 2023 was £19,536 which represents an increase in losses of £2,013 compared to 2022, which saw a loss of £17,523. Key contributing factors were the rises in energy prices and staffing costs.

Our energy costs increased by 140% and staffing costs increased by 20% compared to the previous year. While progression is slower than we might like in financial terms, it is nonetheless going in the right direction despite the rising costs across the board.

The first half of 2024 is showing promising results and supports our view that we’re heading in the right direction.

John Gates Honorary Treasurer Duo Accountants

The following accounts were approved by Hill Close Gardens Trust’s Independent Examiner on 8th August 2024. No material matters or concerns were found.

The Annual Report and the Financial Report were both approved by the Board of Trustees at their meeting on 12th September 2024

Signed: RichEddy

Dated: 12/9/24

15

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES For the year ended 31 Decembèr 2023 Note 2023 2022 INCOME Donations and legacies 5.067 8.477 13.544 2.860 Glft In klnd Incomefrom djorituble artwities Grants reteivable 25.CXI 6,292 14.406 39.406 6,292 39.2CJ 6,593 Membership fees Incomefrom trudinq octiwtie5 Fundraising aetivites Merchandisin8 Letting Admlssion fees 8.157 8.157 7.443 32,420 30.030 21,662 32,420 30.030 21,662 26,395 26.955 17,184 Income from bank interest Other income 3,994 3,936 Total Income 132.624 155 507 130.567 Expendlture Cost of generating volvntary income Cost5 018eneratln8 funds Costs ol charitable artivlties 10.548 66,505 104.393 181.446 10.548 66,505 152 893 8.006 52,706 142.282 202.994 Total expendlture 229,946 NET INCOMEIIEXPENOITUREI Transfers between funds Other reco8nised 8ainsllSossesl N￿MovEMENTIN FUNOS 148,8221 125.6171 174,4401 172,4271 148.8221 125.6171 174.4401 172.4271 Funds at l January io 23.651 554.442 578.092 650.519 FUNDSAT 31 DECEMBER 125,1711 528,825 503,652 578,092 16

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 BALANCE SHEET at 31 December 2023 2023 2022 TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS 493.135 542.029 CURRENT ASSETS Stocks 947 Debtor5 3,714 18,593 22.907 1,975 46,790 49,712 Cash at bank and In hand Creditors- f¥llin8 due within l year NET CURRENT ASSETS 10.518 36,065 Creditors- lon8 term TOTAL ASSErs 503,653 578,094 FUNDS Unre5tricied io 125,1711 528.825 33,601 544,492 Restiicted li 503,654 578,094 Excèptlon from audlt For the year ending 310ecember 2023, the company was entitled to exemption Irom audit under sertion 477 01 the Companies Act 2Crf)6 relating to small ¢ompani¢s. The ¢ompany is also exempt from audit under the Charity CoMmi￿10n requirements. Responslbilites of Trustees and Directors.. - The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its Jccounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476.. - The dlrectors acknowledge thelr responslbllities for complyln8 wlth the requlrements of the Act Wtih respect to accountln8 ￿cOldS and the preparation tsl accounts. These accounts have been prepared In accordance with the proylslons applkable to companles. subject to the small companies, reglme and In accordance with FRS 102 SORP. The trustèès approved the attounts on 18th July 2024 Slgned on behalf of the charity's Trustees.. 17

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basls of preparntlon ol the actounts These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities. Statement of Recornmended Practice ISORPI, and in acctydance with the Finan(i31 Rewrtin8 Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021. Golng tontèm No material uncertainties that cast ￿gnifiCant doubt about the atmlity of the company to continue as a 8oin8 concern have been identified by the dI￿￿ork Incomln8 resources All material incomin8 resource5 are accounted ft>r on a receipt5 basis. Re50urse5 expended Thesè havè been analysed using a natural classification. Shared costs have been allocated bth¥eèn Voluntary Incomè. Fund Genèration and Charitable Activities in the ratio 10..45..45. Depreclatlon Depreciation is calculated to write down the cost or valuation, le55 estimated residual value, of all tan8ible fixed assets over their expected useful lives on a straighi-llne basls. Items of plant and tquipment costln8 less than É750 afe expensed when acquired. The rates appl¢¢able are.. Leasehold buildings and Garden Tesloration Plant and èqulpment unexpired peTioLI of the lease for the Gardens Between 3 and 5 years Stocks Go¢d5 available for resale ore valued at the lower of ¢osi and n*1 reall￿ble ¥•lue. Nursery stocks are valued at 20% of their selline price, bein8 the estimated mateilal costs of their culiivation. Unrèstrlrted and Restrott￿ Funds Unrestiicted Funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objecti4￿ at the discretion of the Trustees. Restricied lunds can only be used for the particular restricted purposes within the tharitable obheciives. Restrictlons arlse when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. 18

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 Notes to the accounts l. Grants and donatlons 2023 2022 Warwick Oistrict Council 25,C 29,250 National Heritage Lottery Fund. TVE National Lottery Herits8e Fund- emergency fund WFGA Grant 2,150 Severn Trerht 39,406 39,2CQ Oonated 8oods- Gift in klnd 2. Totsl msour¢es •Mpended Volurtry In¢om• Funds Gwrnt Chlrltsb 2023 2022 Olre¢i costs Merchandising 16,679 Garden Costs Advertislng Staff and Projects Malntenance 1.154 1,1S4 44,848 23,983 35,441 5.695 44,848 23.983 51,404 13,717 Oepreclatlon 35,441 105.426 35,441 106.257 Shoredcosts Mana8ement Depreclatlon 8,602 1.946 38.708 8.758 86,018 60,596 19.463 8.758 10,548 10.548 47,467 66,505 47,467 152.893 105,482 229,946 80,059 202,994 3. Resources expended Include: Governance- Independent examinerfs fee Oepreciation 2023 2022 500 54,904 19

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 Notes to ihe accourt5- continued 4. Staff costs 2023 2022 Salaries 95,750 81,265 The avera8e weekly number of employees ¢akulated on a fvll tlme equivalent basis was: No employee recelved emoluments In excess of £60.(th In the year. S. Trustees, r•muneratk•n Trustees were reimbursed for le8ltimate expenses incurred by thtm on behalf of the irust 6. Tan8lbl¢ Flxed Assets Leasehold Bulldlrys Garden Resloratlon Plant & Equlpment Total Cost l January 2023 Additlons 848.￿7 348,639 163,376 6,010 1.360,922 6.010 Disposals 31 December 2023 848.￿)7 348,639 169 386 1.366,932 Depreciation At l January 2023 Churgefor the year Depreciation on disposol 31 December 2023 1459.4461 135,4411 1199.8301 113,5281 1159,6161 15,9351 1818.8931 154,9041 213 359 165 552 873.797 Net Book Volues 31 Decèmbef 2023 354,020 389.461 135,280 148.808 3,834 3.760 493,135 542,029 l January 2023 20

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 Notes to the attounts- contlnu•d 7. Stotks 2023 2022 Goods for resale 947 Nursery planis 947 . Debto Trade debtors 1.561 1.975 Other debtor5 Prepayments 2.153 3.714 1.975 9. Credltors Trade creditors 8.978 4,290 i.sco 2.380 12,388 5.596 6,237 1.500 315 13,648 Taxation & Social Security Accruals VAT Payable 9a. Credltors- loni t•rm 10. Funds Restrkted Tot•1 l January 2023 Intoming resources for year Resoufces expended Transfer 23,651 132.624 1181,4461 554.442 22.883 578.093 155.507 1229,9461 31 Decèmber 2023 125,1711 528.825 503,653 Represented by Tanglble Ilxed assets Net current a5setS 8.520 10.518 19,038 484,616 493.135 10.518 503,653 484,616 21

Hill Close Gardens Trust - Accounts FY2023 Note5 to the accounts- continued 11. Restrlcted Furds l J•nuary Ih¢om5nK Rsour¢es Trnnsfers JI D¢¢emb¢r Education 12.205 6.903 205,739 116.192 122.834 3,875 9.407 Icx) 12,305 6.903 184,848 110.913 109.306 24,658 8.875 Garden renovatlon Centre buildin4 Garden buildin85 Gardens 120,8911 17.2791 113.5281 Garden artlvitie5 20.783 Gardén shelter 15321 Mike Sheldon 872 872 HLF IBleasedalel NHLF 72,279 4.135 16,2711 66,(M)8 4.135 554,441 22.883 528,824 Fund Educatlon Specilic eductlon costs or initlati¥es Garden renovatlon For continued work to restore the Gardens Centre buildings Garden buildin85 Gardens Capiial fund lor the Centre Building Capital fund lor the summerhouses and other garden buildin85 Capitsl fund l¢r the restoration work in the Gardens For use by Gardens Team for proiects Oonation from the Fox farnily to build a 8arden shelter CknnatTrons towards a new Avritula Theairt Funds for Transforming the Visitor Experience, to enhance visltors, undefStandin8 of the ￿Cial Conte￿ of the development of the Gardens and their historical imp)rtan¢e Garden actlvitles Garden shelter Mikè Sheldon Heritage Lottery Fund ITVEI Naiional Heritage Lottery Fund Funds for the Transfomiin8 Visitors, Experience project IfvEI, to improve visitor welcome ITVE/Bleasdale Room), and enhance undetstanding of the ￿tIal Conte￿ and historical importance of the Garden5 Capltal Commltments Authorised and (ontracttd I 2023 2022 ' Operating Lease The Gèrdens are subject to a 30-year lease Irom WarwSck Dfjstrict Councll expiring on 9 December 2034 at an annual rent of £1. 22

Hill Close Gardens Trust

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

For the year ended 31 December 2023

Donations and legacies
5,067
Gift in kind
Grants receivable
1
25,000
Membership fees
6,292
Fundraising activites
8,157
Merchandising
32,420
Letting
30,030
Admission fees
21,662
Income from bank interest
-
Other income
3,994
132,624
2
Cost of generating voluntary income
10,548
Costs of generating funds
66,505
Note
Unrestricted
INCOME
Total income
Expenditure
Income from charitable activities
Income from trading activities		 Donations and legacies
5,067
Gift in kind
Grants receivable
1
25,000
Membership fees
6,292
Fundraising activites
8,157
Merchandising
32,420
Letting
30,030
Admission fees
21,662
Income from bank interest
-
Other income
3,994
132,624
2
Cost of generating voluntary income
10,548
Costs of generating funds
66,505
Note
Unrestricted
INCOME
Total income
Expenditure
Income from charitable activities
Income from trading activities		 8,477
14,406
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted		 13,544
-
-
39,406
6,292
8,157
32,420
30,030
21,662
-
3,994
2023		 2,860
-
39,200
6,593
7,443
26,395
26,955
17,184
2022
-
3,936
132,624

10,548
66,505		 22,883 155,507
10,548
66,505		 130,567
-
-		 8,006
52,706
Costs of charitable activities
3
Transfers between funds
Other recognised gains/(losses)
Funds at 1 January
10
Total expenditure
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
FUNDS AT 31 DECEMBER		 104,393

181,446
(48,822)
-
-
(48,822)

23,651		 48,500 152,893 142,282
48,500
(25,617)
-
-
(25,617)
554,442		 229,946
(74,440)
-
-
(74,440)
578,092		 202,994
(72,427)
-
-
(72,427)
650,519
(25,171) 528,825 503,652 578,092

Hill Close Gardens Trust

BALANCE SHEET at 31 December 2023

Note
2023
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS
FUNDS
6
493,135
Stocks
7
600
Debtors
8
3,714
Cash at bank and in hand
18,593
22,907
Creditors - falling due within 1 year
9
(12,388)
10,518
Creditors - long term
-
503,653		 Note
2023
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS
FUNDS
6
493,135
Stocks
7
600
Debtors
8
3,714
Cash at bank and in hand
18,593
22,907
Creditors - falling due within 1 year
9
(12,388)
10,518
Creditors - long term
-
503,653		 2022
542,029
947
1,975
46,790
49,712
(13,647)
36,065
-
578,094		 2022
542,029
947
1,975
46,790
49,712
(13,647)
36,065
-
578,094
600

3,714
18,593
22,907

(12,388)
10,518
-
503,653		 947
1,975
46,790
49,712
(13,647)
36,065
-
578,094
Unrestricted
10
Restricted
11		 (25,171)

528,825		 33,601
544,492
503,654
578,094

Exception from audit

For the year ending 31 December 2023, the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. The company is also exempt from audit under the Charity Commission requirements.

Responsibilites of Trustees and Directors:

These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies' subject to the small companies' regime and in accordance with FRS 102 SORP.

The trustees approved the accounts on 18th July 2024

Signed on behalf of the charity's Trustees:

Hill Close Gardens Trust

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparation of the accounts

These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities - Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

Going concern

No material uncertainties that cast significant doubt about the ability of the company to continue as a going concern have been identified by the directors.

Incoming resources

All material incoming resources are accounted for on a receipts basis.

Resourses expended

These have been analysed using a natural classification. Shared costs have been allocated between Voluntary Income, Fund Generation and Charitable Activities in the ratio 10:45:45.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated to write down the cost or valuation, less estimated residual value, of all tangible fixed assets over their expected useful lives on a straight-line basis. Items of plant and equipment costing less than £750 are expensed when acquired.

The rates applicable are:

Leasehold buildings and Garden restoration Over unexpired period of the lease for the Gardens Plant and equipment Between 3 and 5 years

Stocks

Goods available for resale are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Nursery stocks are valued at 20% of their selling price, being the estimated material costs of their cultivation.

Unrestricted and Restricted Funds

Unrestricted Funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the Trustees.

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

Hill Close Gardens Trust

Notes to the accounts

1. Grants and donations

2. Total resources expended
Warwick District Council
National Heritage Lottery Fund
National Lottery Heritage Fund
WFGA Grant
Severn Trent
Donated goods - Gift in kind
Merchandising
Advertising
Staff and Projects
Maintenance
Depreciation
Management
Depreciation
Direct costs
Garden Costs
Shared costs		 - TVE
- emergency fund		 2023
25,000
-
-
4,800
9,606		 2022
29,250
7,800
2,150
-
-
Voluntary Income
-
-
-
-
-
8,602
1,946
10,548
10,548		 Funds Generated
19,039
-
-
-
19,039
38,708
8,758
47,467
66,505		 Charitable
39,406
-
-
1,154
44,848
23,983
35,441
105,426
38,708
8,758
47,467
152,893		 2023
39,200
-
19,039
1,154
44,848
23,983
35,441
105,426
86,018
19,463
105,482
229,946		 2022
16,679
5,695
51,404
13,717
35,441
106,257
60,596
19,463
80,059
202,994
3. Resources expended include: 2023 2022
Governance - Independent examiner's fee 500 500
Depreciation 54,904 54,904

Hill Close Gardens Trust

Notes to the accounts - continued

4. Staff costs 2023 2022
Salaries 95,750 81,265
The average weekly number of employees calculated on a full time equivalent basis was: 3.5 3.5
No employee received emoluments in excess of £60,000 in the year.
5. Trustees' remuneration - -

Trustees were reimbursed for legitimate expenses incurred by them on behalf of the trust

6. Tangible Fixed Assets

Leasehold Buildings Garden Restoration Plant & Equipment Total
Cost
1 January 2023 848,907 348,639 163,376 1,360,922
Additions -
-
6,010		 6,010
Disposals -
-
-
31 December 2023 848,907 348,639 169,386 1,366,932
Depreciation
At 1 January 2023 (459,446) (199,830) (159,616) (818,893)
Charge for the year (35,441) (13,528) (5,935) (54,904)
Depreciation on disposal -
31 December 2023 (494,887) (213,359) (165,552) (873,797)
Net Book Values
31 December 2023 354,020 135,280 3,834 493,135
1 January 2023 389,461 148,808 3,760 542,029

Hill Close Gardens Trust

Notes to the accounts - continued

7. Stocks
8. Debtors
9. Creditors
9a. Creditors - long term
10. Funds
Goods for resale
Nursery plants
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments
Trade creditors
Taxation & Social Security
Accruals
VAT Payable		 2023
600
-		 2022
947
-
Unrestricted Restricted
600
1,561
-
2,153
3,714
8,978
4,290
1,500
(2,380)
12,388
-
-		 947
1,975
-
-
1,975
5,596
6,237
1,500
315
13,648
-
-
Total
1 January 2023
Incoming resources for year
Resources expended
Transfer
31 December 2023
Represented by
Tangible fixed assets
Net current assets		 23,651 554,442 578,093
132,624
(181,446)
-
(25,171)
8,520
10,518
19,038		 22,883
(48,500)
-
528,825
484,616
-
484,616		 155,507
(229,946)
-
503,653
493,135
10,518
503,653

Hill Close Gardens Trust

Notes to the accounts - continued

11. Restricted Funds

11. Restricted Funds
1 January Incoming Resources Resources
d d		 Transfers 31 December
Education 12,205 100 -
12,305
Garden renovation 6,903 -
6,903
Centre building 205,739 (20,891) -
184,848
Garden buildings 116,192 2,000 (7,279) -
110,913
Gardens 122,834 (13,528) -
109,306
Garden activities 3,875 20,783 -
-
24,658
Garden shelter 9,407 (532) -
8,875
Mike Sheldon 872 -
-
872
HLF (Bleasedale) 72,279 (6,271) -
66,008
NHLF 4,135 -
-
4,135
554,441 22,883 (48,500) -
528,824

Fund

Education Garden renovation Centre buildings Garden buildings Gardens Garden activities Garden shelter Mike Sheldon Heritage Lottery Fund (TVE)

Purpose

Specific eduction costs or initiatives

For continued work to restore the Gardens

Capital fund for the Centre Building Capital fund for the summerhouses and other garden buildings Capital fund for the restoration work in the Gardens For use by Gardens Team for projects Donation from the Fox family to build a garden shelter Donations towards a new Auricula Theatre Funds for Transforming the Visitor Experience, to enhance visitors' understanding of the social context of the development of the Gardens and their historical importance

National Heritage Lottery Fund

Funds for the Transforming Visitors' Experience project (TVE), to improve visitor welcome (TVE/Bleasdale Room), and enhance understanding of the social context and historical importance of the Gardens

Capital Commitments Authorised and contracted for

2023 2022
-
-

Operating Lease

The Gardens are subject to a 30-year lease from Warwick District Council expiring on 9 December 2034 at an annual rent of £1.

CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Section A Independent Examiner's Report Report to the tru8tees Charity Natne Hill C(og£ IILJGV Lpd. On accounts for the year ended S Is¥ Oecombii Zois Charity no (If any) Set out on pagos I report to the trustees on my examination of Ihe accounts of the above charity ("the Tiust.) for the year ended Responslbllltles and basls of report As the charitys trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance wfth Ihe requirements of Ihe Charities Acl 2011 (Ihe Act"). I report in respect of my examinalion of the Trust's account8 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 l am qualified to examlner's 8tatement undertake the examination by belng a qualified member of [insert name of applicable listed bcrfly]]. Delete [ ] rf not applicable. I have completed my examinatlon. I confi￿￿ that no materlal 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 respecl: the accounting records were nol kept in accordance wfth section 130 of the Charities Act,. or the accounts did not accord with the accounting ￿cOrdS. or the accounts did not comply with the applicable requlrements conceming 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 fairf view which Is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concems and have come across no olher 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 rfthey do not apply. Slgned: Date: Name: Relevant professional qualillcallon(s) or body IER Oct 2018

(if any).. Address: Section B Disclosure Only complete rf the examiner needs to highlight material matters of con￿rn (see CC32, Independent examination of charty accounts.. directions and guidance for examiners). Glve here brief details of any items that the examiner wlshes to di8GIo8e. IER Oct 2018