HILL
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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
- **3** About Hill Close Gardens
- **4** The Trust & Trustees
- **6** The Hill Close Gardens Team
- **7** The Trust’s Annual Report 2023
- **8** Performance Highlights
- **9** Success in the Gardens
- **10** Operational Achievements
- **12** Educational Engagement
- **13** Our Mission & Vision
- **15** Financial Report for 2023
- **16** Accounts for FY2023
**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:
- maintaining the Gardens to a high standard
- welcoming visitors to the Gardens every weekday, and at weekends in the summer
## **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):
- Chris Begg
- Robert Bleasdale
- Alison Cathcart
- Richard Eddy
- Susan Haughton
- Jenny Lamb
- Chris Wainwright
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.
- running special events highlighting aspects of horticulture and history in the Gardens
- providing training in horticultural techniques,
- running special events to involve children and disadvantaged families
- providing organised tours of the Gardens
- engaging volunteers in the various aspects of the Gardens
- participating in local horticultural events and shows
**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:
- An annual review of the principal governance, compliance and financial risks and uncertainties that the charity faces
## **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
- the establishment of policies, systems, and procedures to mitigate those risks; and
- the implementation of procedures designed to minimise or manage any potential impact on the charity
**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:**
- Gardening and horticultural tasks Administrative duties
- Welcoming visitors and running the café Providing tours of the gardens Hosting education & community events
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;
- a **new compost area**
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**
- A resounding success with a 53% increase in visitors (623) and a 57% revenue boost (£5,296.55).
## **Snowdrop Weekend**
- Achieved a 27% increase in visitors (716) and a 28% rise in revenue, nearing £8k.
## **Theatre Performances**
- Despite weather challenges, the shows were successfully moved indoors, ensuring continuity.
## **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.
- Mailchimp for email marketing. Hallmaster for room hire management.
- Ticket Tailor for event bookings, replacing Eventbrite. Salesforce CRM to manage customer relationships. Asana for project management. Website Improvements at minimal cost, with more planned for 2024.
## **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**
- Drawing workshops launched by volunteers were highly popular and will be expanded in 2024. Bee Day event attracted over 300 visitors, highlighting our diverse and engaging program.
_**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**
- Preserve and maintain Warwick’s restored Victorian pleasure gardens as a charitable trust
- Develop the site as a welcoming, accessible-for-all environmentally responsible, and financially sustainable, visitor attraction
- Inform, engage, and inspire people so they enjoy the Gardens’ horticultural relevance and social history
## our VISION
## **How we are working for a successful future**
- Preserve the integrity of our horticulturally historic site married with eco-friendly advancements
- Succeed by ensuring that Hill Close Gardens is a welcoming and informative green space
- Be powered by people with a passion for the Gardens
**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** :
- Continue to nurture and develop the volunteer-designed gardens as wellmaintained, diverse, and unique, individual plots
- Extending plot variety and developing the gardens’ hard landscaping and structure
- Developing environmentally responsible initiatives, such as energy generation via solar power, composting, and waterharvesting projects
## **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** :
- Be supported by our employees, volunteers, and trustees who share a passion and want to share the Gardens’ story with visitors
- Maintaining and developing an environment of support to enable volunteers to deliver on the Management, Garden, and Children & Families teams’ objectives
## **Strategy** :
- Sustain and enhance existing garden schemes and developing new ones By offering the local community – of all ages – engaging reasons to visit the gardens, from educational activities for pre-schoolers and younger nature lovers, to themed events relevant to our environment
**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.C*XI
6,292
14.406
39.406
6,292
39.2C*J
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
NMovEMENTIN 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 CoMmi10n 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
dIork
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 reallble ¥•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
Volurt*ry In¢om•
Funds Gw*rnt
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 Fur*ds
l J•nuary
Ih¢om5nK R*sour¢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:
- The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476; - The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
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 conrn
(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