## **The Muncaster Microbus Limited (A company limited by guarantee)** **Report and financial statements for the year ended 31[st] March 2025** **Charity Number 1097959 Company Number 4529248** Page 1 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |**Contents**|**Page**| |---|---| |Reference and Administrative Information|3| |Report of the Management Committee|4| |_Structure, Governance and Management_|4| |_Objectives and Activities_|5| |_Achievements and Performance_|6| |_Financial Review_|8| |_Plans for future periods_|9| |_Responsibilities of the Management_|10| |_Committee_|| |_Auditors_|11| |Statement of Financial Activities|13| |Balance Sheet|14| |Notes forming part of the financial statements|15| Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 2 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## **Report of the Management Committee for the year ended 31[st] March 2025** The Management Committee submit its report and financial statements for the period 1[st] April 2024 to 31[st] March 2025. ## **Reference and Administrative Information** |Company and Charity Name:|The Muncaster Microbus Ltd.| |---|---| |Company registration number:|4529248| |Charity registration number:|1097959| |Registered Office:|Cross| ||Hall Waberthwaite| ||Millom| ||Cumbria| ||LA19 5YW| |Directors, Trustees and Management|Mrs E A Clegg| |Committee members:|Mr D R Marsden| ||Mrs G Howe| ||Mr J Amos| |Chairman:|Mr D R Marsden (Acting Chairman)| |Secretary:|Mrs E A Clegg| |Treasurer:|Mr D R Marsden| |Bankers:|HSBC| ||104, Duke Street,| ||Barrow-in-Furness,| ||Cumbria.| ||LA14 1LR| Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 3 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## **Structure, Governance and Management** ## Governing Document The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 9[th] September 2002. Trading commenced on 1[st] December 2002, when the Muncaster Microbus Group was wound up and its assets were transferred to The Muncaster Microbus Limited. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1. It is a requirement of the Articles of Association that the company is a member of the Community Transport Association (charity registration number 1002222) and this requirement has been met over the last year. The company was registered as a charity on 11[th] June 2003. The accounting year end for the company is the 31[st] March. Note that this was previously 20[th] February but was changed to 31[st] March for the year ending 31[st] March 2015. ## Recruitment and Appointment of Management Committee The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law and under the company’s Articles are known as members of the Management Committee. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association the members of the Management Committee hold office until the next Annual General Meeting following their election or co-option. Members of the Management Committee may however be re-elected at each Annual General Meeting without limit. ## Trustee Induction and Training All our trustees are already familiar with the practical work of the charity. All the trustees have been drivers of the Muncaster Microbus vehicle or regular passengers. Trustees are encouraged to participate in local community transport events and forums and information on courses available for members of voluntary sector organisations for example NCVO is routinely circulated at Management Committee meetings. In addition to management and other relevant information circulated at Management Committee meetings all trustees have been provided with: - A copy of the Charity Commissions guide “the Essential Trustee” - The company Memorandum and Articles - The latest financial statements Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 4 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## Risk Management The Management Committee has conducted a review of the major risks to which the charity is exposed. A risk register has been established and the Management Committee is implementing procedures to mitigate against events having a high overall risk. This risk register was reviewed and revised by the committee during the last financial year to ensure that current risks are monitored by the committee. ## Organisational structure The Muncaster Microbus has a Management Committee of a minimum of 3 members. At present there are 4 members from a variety of backgrounds. The organisation is small with less than 12 persons involved in its management and operations and all those involved are volunteers. There is no requirement for a formal organisational structure below the Management Committee with each Management Committee member taking direct responsibility for one of the tasks or roles required to manage the day to day running of the organisation. For example one Management Committee member has responsibility for ensuring that the vehicle we operate remains roadworthy and remains legal to use for our operations. For significant projects, such as the procurement of a new vehicle, the Management Committee nominate a sub-committee to manage the project and progress is reported at each Management Committee meeting. ## Related parties The Muncaster Microbus is member of the Community Transport Association; however this body provides advice and support rather than setting of policy which is the remit of the Management Committee. In as far as it is complimentary to the charity’s objects the Management Committee cooperate with both local and regional government and other local organisations to support the development of community transport. Previously the “Rural Transport Partnership”, Cumbria County Council and Cumbria Rural Infrastructure Support Programme (CRISP) have provided financial grants to assist the Muncaster Microbus help achieve their community transport objectives in our rural area, in particular assisting with the provision of new vehicles. Cumbria County Council has previously provided grant support to the company in relation to the operation of the Whitehaven Registered Route, however no current support is provided. The Department of Transport (DoT) provided the company with a 100% grant for the purchase of the current microbus (Mercedes Sprinter) which was purchased in Feb 2017 and also for the purchase of the second smaller 8 seat (Mercedes Vito) vehicle which was purchased in July 2017. The contract with the DoT required that these vehicles are used for a minimum of 3 years as specified in the grant application form. Both vehicles have been used for over 3 years so this requirement is fulfilled. The Mercedes Vito was sold during the 2024/25 FY. The company has also been successful in obtaining grants from Mid Copeland GDF, South Copeland GDF and South Cumberland Community Investment Fund to cover a significant proportion of funding for a new Mercedes Sprinter minibus which will replace the existing vehicle. ## **Objectives and Activities** The principle activity of the Company is to provide a community transport service to the inhabitants of the mid Copeland area and its neighbourhood who are in need of such a service because of age, sickness or disability (mental or physical), or poverty or because of a lack of availability of adequate and safe public passenger services. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 5 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED Note that in the context of the Muncaster Microbus the “Mid Copeland area” is defined as from Bootle to Calder Bridge and from the coast East to Boot village. The main objectives and activities for the year continued to focus on the effective delivery of community transport within our area of benefit using our Mercedes minibus operating under “Section 19” and “Section 22” bus permits. ## **Achievements and Performance** ## Community transport operations 2024/25 continued the improving trend seen each year since the Covid lockdowns. The table below demonstrates this: **Table 1: Muncaster Microbus – Breakdown of Fare Income** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2025 2024 2023
£ % £ %
Breakdown of Fare Change Change
Income From From £
2024 2023
Day Trip (Sat) 1517 109 1390 312 446
Day Trip (Mid-Week) 85 89 95 186 51
Private Hire (SPRINTER) 1671 133 1258 257 489
Private Hire (VITO) 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
Whitehaven (Tues and 4440 117 3798 162 2350
Thurs)
Afternoon Tea Trips 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
Theatre Trip 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
Other 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
TOTALS 7713 118 6542 196 3336
Miles travelled (Sprinter) 11137 108 10355 163 6347
Miles travelled (Vito) 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
**----- End of picture text -----**
As can be seen from Table 1, although there was a significant increase in trips and income, it is still below the best pre-pandemic income year of 2019. For example in 2019 fare income was £8477, about 10% greater and this does not take into account fare increases since that time. The main reason for this was that in 2019 Private Hire income was £2642, or 58% greater than in 2025 and we also had income from Afternoon Tea trips of £786 and £1802 from day trips. Table 2 below compares information for 2020 (pre Covid) and both the 2024 and 2025 accounting year: Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 6 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **Table 2: Trend for Whitehaven and Day Trips** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2025 2024 2020**
Whitehaven: Trips 103 103 100
Miles travelled 6277 6238 5597
Total Passengers 905 759 736
Average Passengers 8.8 7.4 7.4
Total Income £4440 £3798 £3148
Income / Trip £43.10 £36.87 £31.48
Day Trips (Sat): Trips 19 19 21
Miles travelled 2525 2539 2295
Total Passengers 144 136 157
Average Passengers 7.6 7.2 7.5
Total Income £1517 £1390 £1370
Income / Trip £79.84 £73.16 £65.24
**----- End of picture text -----**
** = 11 months data used as March 2020 excluded due to first Covid-19 lockdown In summary some key targets for 2026 are therefore: - a) To increase passenger numbers on day trips, which will then increase income / trip. For Whitehaven trips the current trend is very encouraging. - b) To look for other options for Private Hire bookings for the vehicle, actively pursuing these. - c) To look for another source of income for the vehicle, such as Afternoon tea trips or similar. There are over 200 days in the year when the vehicle is not used at all. Increasing publicity for the Muncaster Microbus and its services, by leafleting all the properties in our collection area and hopefully also increasing driver numbers by the same means is seen as an effective way to pursue these aims. ## Vehicle provision The Mercedes Sprinter vehicle (DK66 CGX) has carried out all operations over the last year. The Mercedes Vito was not used at all during the year and the vehicle was sold in July 2024. The Sprinter was used on 149 passenger carrying journeys over the year, of which 103 were to Whitehaven, covering a distance of 11137 miles in total. At 31[st] March 2025 it had a total of 72,018 miles on the odometer. Previous experience is that maintenance costs significantly increase from 5 years onwards and the Sprinter was 8 years old in Feb 2025. The committee has been successful in obtaining a grant to cover replacing the sprinter in 2026. Table 3 shows a comparison of maintenance costs with previous years. There has been an expected increase in costs in 2025, and some significant issues such as problems with the automatic door, which caused considerable driver frustration. **Table 3: Vehicle Servicing, Inspection, MOT and Repair Costs** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Year Bus – Servicing and Repair
Costs EXCLUDING VAT (£)
2024/25 2041
2023/24 1281
2022/23 2341
2021/22 986
**----- End of picture text -----**
Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 7 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **----- Start of picture text -----**
Year Bus – Servicing and Repair
Costs EXCLUDING VAT (£)
2020/21 0 (Covid-19 Pandemic)
2019/20 1093
2018/19 307
2017/18 390 (New Sprinter bus)
2016/17 2686
2015/16 1271
2014/15 3438
2013/14 1238
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Financial Review** Financially the Muncaster Microbus Ltd has cash in hand, having current assets of £112,848 and increase from £39,186 in 2024. This increase is due to the sale of the Vito vehicle and the fact that grant funding of £50,943 is held by the company, which will be spent early in the new financial year as a payment for the new Mercedes Sprinter minibus. The Balance Sheet of the company shows an increase to £119,173, an increase from £52,255. Current trading just covers the running costs of the Sprinter vehicle, but not the depreciation of the vehicle. Ignoring depreciation charges of £2,401 there was a net gain of £376, compared to a net loss of £729 in 2024, which is a much improved position. Expenditure was well controlled in all areas, however the new phone contract has increased costs. There may also be future increases in servicing costs as the Mercedes Sprinter is now over 8 years old and the new vehicle is not expected until 2026. Service and repair costs doubled from 2024 values, but 2024 was an exceptionally good year given the age of the vehicle. Fuel costs were £2684, equivalent to 24p / mile, with the rate / mile unchanged from 2024. There are currently 8 volunteer drivers, (8 in 2024) routinely driving for the Microbus, with a further driver carrying out some private hire trips. This is still not a long term sustainable number and leaves the operation of the Microbus very vulnerable to the loss or one or more key drivers. Recruitment of additional drivers remains a priority for the committee. Increasing the utilisation of the vehicles is still essential if the company is to make an improved contribution to cover depreciation costs and to cover expected increases in servicing costs. There are two necessary actions to achieve this: - a) Increasing the number of passengers / trip, through improved publicity - b) Increasing the number of day trips and private hires for the vehicle, through increased drivers and publicity. A positive step has been made in that agreement has been reached with Cumberland Council to give the Muncaster Microbus a return of 70% from 1[st] April 2025 on NoW card fares used on our registered Whitehaven route. This is an increase from 58% previously At the end of the year accumulated funds were £18,220 a decrease of £6535 from £24,755 in the 2024 accounts. This change was however because the Vehicle Replacement reserve was increased by £15,000 to £30,000 and the Contingency reserve from £12,500 to £20,000. ## Principal Funding Sources Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 8 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED The principal funding source for the charity over the last year has been fare income which was £7713. There was also a contribution of £1614 from interest from our savings accounts. This is likely to decrease in 2026 due to falling interest rates. ## Investment Policy The charity has maintained a conservative position with respect to investment of funds. With the exception of the current account all funds are invested in savings accounts with Aldermore Bank. This position is reviewed annually and as far as practical current accounts funds are transferred into the savings account. ## Reserves Policy ## _Designated funds:_ ## a) Vehicle Replacement reserve: ## Reason for fund: The primary need of the Muncaster Microbus Limited is to operate community transport vehicles. Although the purchase of these may be supported by grant income there is a need to demonstrate to grant providers that the company is making a contribution. Basis for transfer into the fund: Each year the Management Committee will consider what proportion of reserves can be allocated to the fund. At the start of the year the fund stood at £15,000. Following the sale of the Vito vehicle the proceeds have been used to increase this reserve to £30,000. ## b) Contingency reserve: ## Reason for fund: The Muncaster Microbus Limited has previously relied on grant support for a proportion of revenue funding and for the majority of capital towards new vehicles. Revenue funding can be difficult to obtain, and is usually associated with a specific new project rather than on ongoing business. Although the company is currently able to operate day to day activities without revenue grant funding there is increasing uncertainty related to both future revenue and capital funding and for central support for operations such as the Whitehaven registered route, where there are always risks that other services are instigated. This fund is therefore available if contingency funding is required for any reason, the Covid 19 shutdowns being a clear example. There are also risks that the vehicle could be off the road for a lengthy period, as has occurred previously, incurring the company in significant hire costs. Basis for transfer into the fund: The objective is to hold a minimum of 18 months outgoing resources in the fund. Including depreciation the outgoing resources for 2025 FY were £11,452. The Management Committee have therefore decided to increase this fund to £20,000, from £12,500 previously. ## c) Vehicle Grants reserve: Reason for Fund: This fund allows the accounts to clearly show any grant or funds which were given to the company for specific purposes, but have not yet been used. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 9 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED Basis for transfer into the fund: All grant payments in support of a new vehicle or to provide revenue for specific purposes are allocated to this fund. ## **Plans for future periods** For the 2024/2025 financial year it can be concluded that those services being run have all achieved good levels of passenger utilisation. Going forward there are several key actions the Management Committee need to take: - a) Improve publicity for the Microbus, the community benefit and the excellent service we provide for passengers. Again a new web site has been set up, but the organization still needs to reach out to potential customers. - b) Recruiting new drivers and committee members remains critical if the existing operation is to survive and hopefully improved publicity will reach assist in this area. - c) Obtain and commence operations with the new Mercedes Sprinter minibus and sell on the existing sprinter vehicle. ## **Responsibilities of the Management Committee** Company law requires the Management Committee to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, for the financial year. In preparing those financial statements, the management committee should follow best practice and: - select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently - make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and - prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to assume that the company will continue on that basis. The Management Committee is responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and the Committee must ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Management Committee is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention of fraud and other irregularities. ## Members of the Management Committee Members of the Management Committee, who are directors for the purpose of company law and trustees for the purposes of charity law, who served during the year and up to the date of this report are set out on page 3. In accordance with company law, as the company’s directors, we certify that: - so far as we are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which we are unaware; and - as the directors of the company we have taken all the steps that we ought to have taken in order to make ourselves aware of any relevant audit information and to ensure that it is contained within this report Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 10 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## **Auditors** The Management Committee have agreed not to require an audit of the accounts on the following basis: - The company qualifies as a “small company” under the Companies Act 2006 section 382 - no notice has been received from members requesting an audit - The company Articles of Association do not require audit of the accounts As such the Management Committee have not appointed auditors for the current financial year. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 11 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED By order of the Management Committee, Mr D R Marsden Acting Chairman / Treasurer Date: 19[th] December 2025 Mrs E A Clegg Secretary Date: 19[th] December 2025 Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 12 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **----- Start of picture text -----**
Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Financial Activities for period ended 31st March 2025
INCOME 2025 2025 2025 2024
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total Notes
Funds Funds Funds Funds
Activities in furtherance of the charity's
objectives:
Vehicle Charges and Brokerage £ 7,713 £ - £ 7,713 £ 6,542
Operating Grants and Donations £ 100 £ 55,120 £ 55,220 £ 80 3
£ - £ 7
Sundries £ - £ -
Investment income:
Interest received £ 1,614 £ - £ 1,614 £ 1,111
Total Income £ 9,427 £ 55,120 £ 64,547 £ 7,740
EXPENDITURE
Charitable expenditure:
Costs of Activities in furtherance of
charitable objectives:
Vehicle costs £ 8,790 £ - £ 8,790 £ 10,819 4
Establishment costs £ 1,392 £ - £ 1,392 £ 1,141 5
Management and Administration Expenses £ 1,270 £ - £ 1,270 £ 866 6
Total Expenditure £ 11,452 £ - £ 11,452 £ 12,826
Net Income (£ 2,025) £ 55,120 £ 53,095 (£ 5,086 )
Gains and Losses on revaluations of fixed
assets: £ 13,823 £ - £ 13,823 £ -
Net Income/(expenditure) before
Transfers £ 11,798 £ 55,120 £ 66,918 (£ 5,086)
Transfer between funds £ 4,167 (£ 4,167) £ - £ -
Net Income/(expenditure) for the year £ 15,965 £ 50,953 £ 66,918 (£ 5,086)
Total funds brought forward £ 52,255 £ - £ 52,255 £ 57,341
Total funds carried forward £ 68,220 £ 50,953 £ 119,173 £ 52,255
**----- End of picture text -----**
Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 13 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **----- Start of picture text -----**
Balance Sheet as at 31st March 2025
2025 2025 2024
£ £ £ Notes
Tangible Fixed Assets
Motor Vehicles £ 6,325 £ 13,070 9
Other equipment £ - £ - 9
Current Assets
Debtors and Prepayments £ 5,325 £ 694 10
Savings Accounts £ 55,480 £ 37,610
Cash at Bank and in hand £ 52,043 £ 1,177
£ 112,848 £ 39,481
Creditors - Amounts falling due within 1 £
year - £ 296 11
Net Current Assets £ 112,848 £ 39,186
£ 119,173 £ 52,255
Financed by:
Unrestricted Funds
Contingency Reserve £ 20,000 £ 12,500 14
Vehicle Replacement Reserve £ 30,000 £ 15,000 13
Accumulated Funds £ 18,220 £ 24,755
Restricted Funds
Vehicle Grants Reserve £ 50,953 £ - 12
£ 119,173 £ 52,255
**----- End of picture text -----**
## Audit and Accounts For the year ended 31[st] March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. Directors’ responsibilities; - 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. Approved by: (Director: The Muncaster Microbus Ltd) (David R Marsden) (Date: 19[th] December 2025) Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 14 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED Notes forming part of the Financial Statements for the year ended 31[st] March 2024. ## 1. Trading period The 2025 Accounts cover the period 1[st] April 2024 to 31[st] March 2025 and the 2024 Accounts cover the period 1[st] April 2023 to 31[st] March 2024. ## 2. Accounting Policies - a) The accounts are prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) FRS 102, “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” effective October 2019, the Companies Act 2006, and applicable accounting standards. ## b) Incoming Resources All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income: - All Grants and Donations are included in the accounts upon receipt. Those relating to vehicles bought during the period are included in the Balance Sheet under Vehicles Grants Reserve with a release to Income and Expenditure Account as the grant is used to pay for the vehicle. General Grants received and applied are credited to Income and Expenditure Account. Non vehicle related grants received but not applied at the Year End are carried forward under Creditors (Grants Received and not yet used). - Donated services and facilities are included at the value to the charity where this can be quantified. The value of services provided by volunteers has not been included in these accounts - Investment income is included when receivable - Incoming resources from charitable trading activity are accounted for when earned - c) Resources Expended Expenditure is recognised on an accrual basis as a liability is incurred. The company voluntarily become VAT registered from 1[st] February 2008. As a result VAT is not shown as an income or expenditure unless it is irrecoverable. Costs in furtherance of the Charities objects include the direct running costs of the vehicles. Expenditure is broken down as follows: - Vehicle costs include all expenditure associated with keeping a vehicle on the road, including insurance, repairs and servicing and fuel and depreciation of the vehicle - Establishment costs include expenditure associated with the office such as postage, stationary and literature and office equipment. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 15 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED - Management and administration costs relate to the organisation’s central running costs such as public liability insurance and trustee insurance, driver licences and expenses incurred by volunteers carrying out their work - d) Fund Accounting - Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity. - Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the Management Committee for particular purposes. - Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor or through the terms of an appeal - e) Fixed assets Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. The costs of minor additions or those costing below £500 are not capitalised. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of each asset over its expected useful life. On Motor Vehicles depreciation is calculated on the basis of a percentage reduction in the residual value each year. Other equipment is depreciated as shown below. The rates in force being: - a. New Vehicles 25% b. Second-Hand Vehicles 50% - c. Office equipment, excluding computer hardware, is written off on purchase - d. Computer hardware is written off on a straight line basis over 3 years Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 16 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## 3. Operating Grants and Donations |Unrestricted funds
Gifts / Donations received
Fundraising income
Other Grants
Restricted funds
Gifts / Donations received
Fundraising income
Other Grants|2025
£
100
-
-
100
2025
£
-
-
55,120
55,120|2024
£
80
-
-
80
2024
£
-
-
-
-| |---|---|---| |||| ## 4. Vehicle costs |Petrol, Oil and fluids
Vehicle equipment
Vehicle insurance
Vehicle tax, MOT and operating licences
Repairs and maintenance
Vehicle hire
Sundry Operating Costs
Route Costs
Depreciation – (Vehicle)
Establishment Costs
Postage, Stationary and Literature
Web site
Telephone|2025
£
2741
-
959
425
2041
-
191
32
2401
8,790
2025
£
-
168
1224|2024
£
2544
-
1870
562
1281
-
170
36
4356
10,819
2024
£
-
-
1141| |---|---|---| ## 5. Establishment Costs Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 17 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |6.|Office equipment
Depreciation – (Computer)
Management and Administration Expenses
Volunteers expenses
Training
Conference fees and subscriptions
Publicity
Accountancy fees
Bank Charges
Sundries
Driver Licence and Medical fees
Public Liability and Trustee insurance
Charitable gifts made
Bad Debts written off|1392
2025
£
56
-
46
247
18
90
768
45
1270|-
-
1141
2024
£
-
-
21
-
18
83
-
-
744
-
-
866|-
-
1141| |---|---|---|---|---| ## 7. Taxation As a charity, The Muncaster Microbus Ltd is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or S256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. No tax charges have arisen in the Charity. ## 8. Employees The Company has no full-time or part time employees. All driving duties and administrative duties are supplied by volunteers. ## 9. Tangible Fixed Assets |Cost as at 1st April 2024
Additions at Cost
LessEliminated on Disposal
Cost as at 1st April 2025
Depreciation as at 1st April 2024
Charge for year to 31st March 2025
LessEliminated on Disposal
Depreciation as at 31st March 2025|Motor Vehicles
£
96,568
-
31,747
64,821
83,498
2401
(27,403)
58,496|Motor Vehicles
£
96,568
-
31,747
64,821
83,498
2401
(27,403)
58,496|Motor Vehicles
£
96,568
-
31,747
64,821
83,498
2401
(27,403)
58,496| |---|---|---|---| ||||| ||||58,496| Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 18 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |10.
11.|Net Book Value as at 31st March 2024
Net Book Value as at 1st April 2025
No other Depreciation
Debtors and Prepayments
Debtors
- Vehicle Charges
- Insurance Claim
Prepayments – New Vehicle Deposit
VAT – Not yet repaid by HMRC
Less – Bad Debts written off
Creditors– Amounts falling due within one year
Operating Grants Received and not yet used
Sundry Trade Creditors
Other Creditors
Accrued Expenses|13,070
6,325
Other
£
-
2025
£
976
-
4167
182
5,325
-
5,325
2025
£
-
-
-
-
-|2024
£
445
-
-
249
694
-
694
2024
£
-
296
-
-
296| |---|---|---|---| ## 12. Vehicle Grants Reserve The Grants received in 2024 / 2025 were received solely as initial payments for the purchase of a new Sprinter Minibus and have therefore been shown as a restricted fund. These grants are planned to be spent in 2025//26 FY when the vehicle purchase in complete Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 19 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## Restricted Funds |Restricted Funds||| |---|---|---| |Balance brought forward
GDF Grant for Mercedes Sprinter
Mid Copeland GDF Grant for Mercedes
Sprinter
South Copeland GDF Grant for Mercedes
Sprinter
South Cumberland Community Fund
LessRelease to Income and Expenditure
Account
Balance carried forward|2025
£
0
5,000
34,062
14,597
1,461
4,167
50,953|2024
£
0
-
-
0
0| |||| ## 13. Vehicle Replacement Reserve This reserve is to provide funds to allow future purchases of replacement vehicles by the company. The Management Committee previously allocated £15,000 to this reserve in support of the plans to purchase a new vehicle in the future. It has also been agreed that £15,000 from the sale of the Vito vehicle should be added to this account. It is expected that other reserves can be used to complete the purchase of the new Mercedes sprinter expected in 2026 so as things stand this reserve is expected to be available for the purchase of future vehicles beyond this. |Balance brought forward
Transfer of funds from Accumulated Funds
Account
LessRelease to Income and Expenditure
Account
Balance carried forward|2025
£
15,000
15,000
-
30,000|2024
£
15,000
-
-
15,000| |---|---|---| |||| ## 14. Contingency Reserve This reserve is allocated by the Management Committee on an annual basis. The reserve is established to reduce risk against loss of grant income or other event which severely impacts on income. The Management Committee have agreed to increase this to £20,000, due to inflation and increased expenses incurred. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 20 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |Bad|Balance brought forward
Transfer of funds from Accumulated Funds
Account

LessRelease to Income and Expenditure
Account
Balance carried forward
Debts
Unable to find VAT Invoice so VAT not
claimed
Missing Vito Float|2025
£
12,500
7,500
-
20,000
2025
£
33
15
48|2024
£
12,500
-
-
12,500
2024
£
-| |---|---|---|---| ||||| ## 15. Bad Debts ## 16. Exceptional items None ## 17. Trustee Remuneration and Related Party Transactions No members of the Management Committee received any remuneration during the year. Travel expenses of £22.50 were paid to one Trustee. Trustees purchased receipted items to the value of £760 on behalf of the company and were subsequently repaid by the company. No trustee or other person related to the charity had any personal interest in any contract or transaction entered into by the charity during the year. ## 18. Contingencies and Commitments None ## 19. Status The Company is a Private Company limited by guarantee without a share capital and is a registered charity. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 21 of 21 ## **The Muncaster Microbus Limited (A company limited by guarantee)** **Report and financial statements for the year ended 31[st] March 2025** **Charity Number 1097959 Company Number 4529248** Page 1 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |**Contents**|**Page**| |---|---| |Reference and Administrative Information|3| |Report of the Management Committee|4| |_Structure, Governance and Management_|4| |_Objectives and Activities_|5| |_Achievements and Performance_|6| |_Financial Review_|8| |_Plans for future periods_|9| |_Responsibilities of the Management_|10| |_Committee_|| |_Auditors_|11| |Statement of Financial Activities|13| |Balance Sheet|14| |Notes forming part of the financial statements|15| Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 2 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## **Report of the Management Committee for the year ended 31[st] March 2025** The Management Committee submit its report and financial statements for the period 1[st] April 2024 to 31[st] March 2025. ## **Reference and Administrative Information** |Company and Charity Name:|The Muncaster Microbus Ltd.| |---|---| |Company registration number:|4529248| |Charity registration number:|1097959| |Registered Office:|Cross| ||Hall Waberthwaite| ||Millom| ||Cumbria| ||LA19 5YW| |Directors, Trustees and Management|Mrs E A Clegg| |Committee members:|Mr D R Marsden| ||Mrs G Howe| ||Mr J Amos| |Chairman:|Mr D R Marsden (Acting Chairman)| |Secretary:|Mrs E A Clegg| |Treasurer:|Mr D R Marsden| |Bankers:|HSBC| ||104, Duke Street,| ||Barrow-in-Furness,| ||Cumbria.| ||LA14 1LR| Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 3 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## **Structure, Governance and Management** ## Governing Document The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 9[th] September 2002. Trading commenced on 1[st] December 2002, when the Muncaster Microbus Group was wound up and its assets were transferred to The Muncaster Microbus Limited. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1. It is a requirement of the Articles of Association that the company is a member of the Community Transport Association (charity registration number 1002222) and this requirement has been met over the last year. The company was registered as a charity on 11[th] June 2003. The accounting year end for the company is the 31[st] March. Note that this was previously 20[th] February but was changed to 31[st] March for the year ending 31[st] March 2015. ## Recruitment and Appointment of Management Committee The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law and under the company’s Articles are known as members of the Management Committee. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association the members of the Management Committee hold office until the next Annual General Meeting following their election or co-option. Members of the Management Committee may however be re-elected at each Annual General Meeting without limit. ## Trustee Induction and Training All our trustees are already familiar with the practical work of the charity. All the trustees have been drivers of the Muncaster Microbus vehicle or regular passengers. Trustees are encouraged to participate in local community transport events and forums and information on courses available for members of voluntary sector organisations for example NCVO is routinely circulated at Management Committee meetings. In addition to management and other relevant information circulated at Management Committee meetings all trustees have been provided with: - A copy of the Charity Commissions guide “the Essential Trustee” - The company Memorandum and Articles - The latest financial statements Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 4 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## Risk Management The Management Committee has conducted a review of the major risks to which the charity is exposed. A risk register has been established and the Management Committee is implementing procedures to mitigate against events having a high overall risk. This risk register was reviewed and revised by the committee during the last financial year to ensure that current risks are monitored by the committee. ## Organisational structure The Muncaster Microbus has a Management Committee of a minimum of 3 members. At present there are 4 members from a variety of backgrounds. The organisation is small with less than 12 persons involved in its management and operations and all those involved are volunteers. There is no requirement for a formal organisational structure below the Management Committee with each Management Committee member taking direct responsibility for one of the tasks or roles required to manage the day to day running of the organisation. For example one Management Committee member has responsibility for ensuring that the vehicle we operate remains roadworthy and remains legal to use for our operations. For significant projects, such as the procurement of a new vehicle, the Management Committee nominate a sub-committee to manage the project and progress is reported at each Management Committee meeting. ## Related parties The Muncaster Microbus is member of the Community Transport Association; however this body provides advice and support rather than setting of policy which is the remit of the Management Committee. In as far as it is complimentary to the charity’s objects the Management Committee cooperate with both local and regional government and other local organisations to support the development of community transport. Previously the “Rural Transport Partnership”, Cumbria County Council and Cumbria Rural Infrastructure Support Programme (CRISP) have provided financial grants to assist the Muncaster Microbus help achieve their community transport objectives in our rural area, in particular assisting with the provision of new vehicles. Cumbria County Council has previously provided grant support to the company in relation to the operation of the Whitehaven Registered Route, however no current support is provided. The Department of Transport (DoT) provided the company with a 100% grant for the purchase of the current microbus (Mercedes Sprinter) which was purchased in Feb 2017 and also for the purchase of the second smaller 8 seat (Mercedes Vito) vehicle which was purchased in July 2017. The contract with the DoT required that these vehicles are used for a minimum of 3 years as specified in the grant application form. Both vehicles have been used for over 3 years so this requirement is fulfilled. The Mercedes Vito was sold during the 2024/25 FY. The company has also been successful in obtaining grants from Mid Copeland GDF, South Copeland GDF and South Cumberland Community Investment Fund to cover a significant proportion of funding for a new Mercedes Sprinter minibus which will replace the existing vehicle. ## **Objectives and Activities** The principle activity of the Company is to provide a community transport service to the inhabitants of the mid Copeland area and its neighbourhood who are in need of such a service because of age, sickness or disability (mental or physical), or poverty or because of a lack of availability of adequate and safe public passenger services. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 5 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED Note that in the context of the Muncaster Microbus the “Mid Copeland area” is defined as from Bootle to Calder Bridge and from the coast East to Boot village. The main objectives and activities for the year continued to focus on the effective delivery of community transport within our area of benefit using our Mercedes minibus operating under “Section 19” and “Section 22” bus permits. ## **Achievements and Performance** ## Community transport operations 2024/25 continued the improving trend seen each year since the Covid lockdowns. The table below demonstrates this: **Table 1: Muncaster Microbus – Breakdown of Fare Income** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2025 2024 2023
£ % £ %
Breakdown of Fare Change Change
Income From From £
2024 2023
Day Trip (Sat) 1517 109 1390 312 446
Day Trip (Mid-Week) 85 89 95 186 51
Private Hire (SPRINTER) 1671 133 1258 257 489
Private Hire (VITO) 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
Whitehaven (Tues and 4440 117 3798 162 2350
Thurs)
Afternoon Tea Trips 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
Theatre Trip 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
Other 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
TOTALS 7713 118 6542 196 3336
Miles travelled (Sprinter) 11137 108 10355 163 6347
Miles travelled (Vito) 0 n/a 0 n/a 0
**----- End of picture text -----**
As can be seen from Table 1, although there was a significant increase in trips and income, it is still below the best pre-pandemic income year of 2019. For example in 2019 fare income was £8477, about 10% greater and this does not take into account fare increases since that time. The main reason for this was that in 2019 Private Hire income was £2642, or 58% greater than in 2025 and we also had income from Afternoon Tea trips of £786 and £1802 from day trips. Table 2 below compares information for 2020 (pre Covid) and both the 2024 and 2025 accounting year: Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 6 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **Table 2: Trend for Whitehaven and Day Trips** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2025 2024 2020**
Whitehaven: Trips 103 103 100
Miles travelled 6277 6238 5597
Total Passengers 905 759 736
Average Passengers 8.8 7.4 7.4
Total Income £4440 £3798 £3148
Income / Trip £43.10 £36.87 £31.48
Day Trips (Sat): Trips 19 19 21
Miles travelled 2525 2539 2295
Total Passengers 144 136 157
Average Passengers 7.6 7.2 7.5
Total Income £1517 £1390 £1370
Income / Trip £79.84 £73.16 £65.24
**----- End of picture text -----**
** = 11 months data used as March 2020 excluded due to first Covid-19 lockdown In summary some key targets for 2026 are therefore: - a) To increase passenger numbers on day trips, which will then increase income / trip. For Whitehaven trips the current trend is very encouraging. - b) To look for other options for Private Hire bookings for the vehicle, actively pursuing these. - c) To look for another source of income for the vehicle, such as Afternoon tea trips or similar. There are over 200 days in the year when the vehicle is not used at all. Increasing publicity for the Muncaster Microbus and its services, by leafleting all the properties in our collection area and hopefully also increasing driver numbers by the same means is seen as an effective way to pursue these aims. ## Vehicle provision The Mercedes Sprinter vehicle (DK66 CGX) has carried out all operations over the last year. The Mercedes Vito was not used at all during the year and the vehicle was sold in July 2024. The Sprinter was used on 149 passenger carrying journeys over the year, of which 103 were to Whitehaven, covering a distance of 11137 miles in total. At 31[st] March 2025 it had a total of 72,018 miles on the odometer. Previous experience is that maintenance costs significantly increase from 5 years onwards and the Sprinter was 8 years old in Feb 2025. The committee has been successful in obtaining a grant to cover replacing the sprinter in 2026. Table 3 shows a comparison of maintenance costs with previous years. There has been an expected increase in costs in 2025, and some significant issues such as problems with the automatic door, which caused considerable driver frustration. **Table 3: Vehicle Servicing, Inspection, MOT and Repair Costs** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Year Bus – Servicing and Repair
Costs EXCLUDING VAT (£)
2024/25 2041
2023/24 1281
2022/23 2341
2021/22 986
**----- End of picture text -----**
Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 7 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **----- Start of picture text -----**
Year Bus – Servicing and Repair
Costs EXCLUDING VAT (£)
2020/21 0 (Covid-19 Pandemic)
2019/20 1093
2018/19 307
2017/18 390 (New Sprinter bus)
2016/17 2686
2015/16 1271
2014/15 3438
2013/14 1238
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Financial Review** Financially the Muncaster Microbus Ltd has cash in hand, having current assets of £112,848 and increase from £39,186 in 2024. This increase is due to the sale of the Vito vehicle and the fact that grant funding of £50,943 is held by the company, which will be spent early in the new financial year as a payment for the new Mercedes Sprinter minibus. The Balance Sheet of the company shows an increase to £119,173, an increase from £52,255. Current trading just covers the running costs of the Sprinter vehicle, but not the depreciation of the vehicle. Ignoring depreciation charges of £2,401 there was a net gain of £376, compared to a net loss of £729 in 2024, which is a much improved position. Expenditure was well controlled in all areas, however the new phone contract has increased costs. There may also be future increases in servicing costs as the Mercedes Sprinter is now over 8 years old and the new vehicle is not expected until 2026. Service and repair costs doubled from 2024 values, but 2024 was an exceptionally good year given the age of the vehicle. Fuel costs were £2684, equivalent to 24p / mile, with the rate / mile unchanged from 2024. There are currently 8 volunteer drivers, (8 in 2024) routinely driving for the Microbus, with a further driver carrying out some private hire trips. This is still not a long term sustainable number and leaves the operation of the Microbus very vulnerable to the loss or one or more key drivers. Recruitment of additional drivers remains a priority for the committee. Increasing the utilisation of the vehicles is still essential if the company is to make an improved contribution to cover depreciation costs and to cover expected increases in servicing costs. There are two necessary actions to achieve this: - a) Increasing the number of passengers / trip, through improved publicity - b) Increasing the number of day trips and private hires for the vehicle, through increased drivers and publicity. A positive step has been made in that agreement has been reached with Cumberland Council to give the Muncaster Microbus a return of 70% from 1[st] April 2025 on NoW card fares used on our registered Whitehaven route. This is an increase from 58% previously At the end of the year accumulated funds were £18,220 a decrease of £6535 from £24,755 in the 2024 accounts. This change was however because the Vehicle Replacement reserve was increased by £15,000 to £30,000 and the Contingency reserve from £12,500 to £20,000. ## Principal Funding Sources Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 8 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED The principal funding source for the charity over the last year has been fare income which was £7713. There was also a contribution of £1614 from interest from our savings accounts. This is likely to decrease in 2026 due to falling interest rates. ## Investment Policy The charity has maintained a conservative position with respect to investment of funds. With the exception of the current account all funds are invested in savings accounts with Aldermore Bank. This position is reviewed annually and as far as practical current accounts funds are transferred into the savings account. ## Reserves Policy ## _Designated funds:_ ## a) Vehicle Replacement reserve: ## Reason for fund: The primary need of the Muncaster Microbus Limited is to operate community transport vehicles. Although the purchase of these may be supported by grant income there is a need to demonstrate to grant providers that the company is making a contribution. Basis for transfer into the fund: Each year the Management Committee will consider what proportion of reserves can be allocated to the fund. At the start of the year the fund stood at £15,000. Following the sale of the Vito vehicle the proceeds have been used to increase this reserve to £30,000. ## b) Contingency reserve: ## Reason for fund: The Muncaster Microbus Limited has previously relied on grant support for a proportion of revenue funding and for the majority of capital towards new vehicles. Revenue funding can be difficult to obtain, and is usually associated with a specific new project rather than on ongoing business. Although the company is currently able to operate day to day activities without revenue grant funding there is increasing uncertainty related to both future revenue and capital funding and for central support for operations such as the Whitehaven registered route, where there are always risks that other services are instigated. This fund is therefore available if contingency funding is required for any reason, the Covid 19 shutdowns being a clear example. There are also risks that the vehicle could be off the road for a lengthy period, as has occurred previously, incurring the company in significant hire costs. Basis for transfer into the fund: The objective is to hold a minimum of 18 months outgoing resources in the fund. Including depreciation the outgoing resources for 2025 FY were £11,452. The Management Committee have therefore decided to increase this fund to £20,000, from £12,500 previously. ## c) Vehicle Grants reserve: Reason for Fund: This fund allows the accounts to clearly show any grant or funds which were given to the company for specific purposes, but have not yet been used. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 9 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED Basis for transfer into the fund: All grant payments in support of a new vehicle or to provide revenue for specific purposes are allocated to this fund. ## **Plans for future periods** For the 2024/2025 financial year it can be concluded that those services being run have all achieved good levels of passenger utilisation. Going forward there are several key actions the Management Committee need to take: - a) Improve publicity for the Microbus, the community benefit and the excellent service we provide for passengers. Again a new web site has been set up, but the organization still needs to reach out to potential customers. - b) Recruiting new drivers and committee members remains critical if the existing operation is to survive and hopefully improved publicity will reach assist in this area. - c) Obtain and commence operations with the new Mercedes Sprinter minibus and sell on the existing sprinter vehicle. ## **Responsibilities of the Management Committee** Company law requires the Management Committee to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, for the financial year. In preparing those financial statements, the management committee should follow best practice and: - select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently - make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and - prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to assume that the company will continue on that basis. The Management Committee is responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and the Committee must ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Management Committee is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention of fraud and other irregularities. ## Members of the Management Committee Members of the Management Committee, who are directors for the purpose of company law and trustees for the purposes of charity law, who served during the year and up to the date of this report are set out on page 3. In accordance with company law, as the company’s directors, we certify that: - so far as we are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which we are unaware; and - as the directors of the company we have taken all the steps that we ought to have taken in order to make ourselves aware of any relevant audit information and to ensure that it is contained within this report Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 10 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## **Auditors** The Management Committee have agreed not to require an audit of the accounts on the following basis: - The company qualifies as a “small company” under the Companies Act 2006 section 382 - no notice has been received from members requesting an audit - The company Articles of Association do not require audit of the accounts As such the Management Committee have not appointed auditors for the current financial year. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 11 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED By order of the Management Committee, Mr D R Marsden Acting Chairman / Treasurer Date: 19[th] December 2025 Mrs E A Clegg Secretary Date: 19[th] December 2025 Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 12 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **----- Start of picture text -----**
Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Financial Activities for period ended 31st March 2025
INCOME 2025 2025 2025 2024
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total Notes
Funds Funds Funds Funds
Activities in furtherance of the charity's
objectives:
Vehicle Charges and Brokerage £ 7,713 £ - £ 7,713 £ 6,542
Operating Grants and Donations £ 100 £ 55,120 £ 55,220 £ 80 3
£ - £ 7
Sundries £ - £ -
Investment income:
Interest received £ 1,614 £ - £ 1,614 £ 1,111
Total Income £ 9,427 £ 55,120 £ 64,547 £ 7,740
EXPENDITURE
Charitable expenditure:
Costs of Activities in furtherance of
charitable objectives:
Vehicle costs £ 8,790 £ - £ 8,790 £ 10,819 4
Establishment costs £ 1,392 £ - £ 1,392 £ 1,141 5
Management and Administration Expenses £ 1,270 £ - £ 1,270 £ 866 6
Total Expenditure £ 11,452 £ - £ 11,452 £ 12,826
Net Income (£ 2,025) £ 55,120 £ 53,095 (£ 5,086 )
Gains and Losses on revaluations of fixed
assets: £ 13,823 £ - £ 13,823 £ -
Net Income/(expenditure) before
Transfers £ 11,798 £ 55,120 £ 66,918 (£ 5,086)
Transfer between funds £ 4,167 (£ 4,167) £ - £ -
Net Income/(expenditure) for the year £ 15,965 £ 50,953 £ 66,918 (£ 5,086)
Total funds brought forward £ 52,255 £ - £ 52,255 £ 57,341
Total funds carried forward £ 68,220 £ 50,953 £ 119,173 £ 52,255
**----- End of picture text -----**
Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 13 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED **----- Start of picture text -----**
Balance Sheet as at 31st March 2025
2025 2025 2024
£ £ £ Notes
Tangible Fixed Assets
Motor Vehicles £ 6,325 £ 13,070 9
Other equipment £ - £ - 9
Current Assets
Debtors and Prepayments £ 5,325 £ 694 10
Savings Accounts £ 55,480 £ 37,610
Cash at Bank and in hand £ 52,043 £ 1,177
£ 112,848 £ 39,481
Creditors - Amounts falling due within 1 £
year - £ 296 11
Net Current Assets £ 112,848 £ 39,186
£ 119,173 £ 52,255
Financed by:
Unrestricted Funds
Contingency Reserve £ 20,000 £ 12,500 14
Vehicle Replacement Reserve £ 30,000 £ 15,000 13
Accumulated Funds £ 18,220 £ 24,755
Restricted Funds
Vehicle Grants Reserve £ 50,953 £ - 12
£ 119,173 £ 52,255
**----- End of picture text -----**
## Audit and Accounts For the year ended 31[st] March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. Directors’ responsibilities; - 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. Approved by: (Director: The Muncaster Microbus Ltd) (David R Marsden) (Date: 19[th] December 2025) Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 14 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED Notes forming part of the Financial Statements for the year ended 31[st] March 2024. ## 1. Trading period The 2025 Accounts cover the period 1[st] April 2024 to 31[st] March 2025 and the 2024 Accounts cover the period 1[st] April 2023 to 31[st] March 2024. ## 2. Accounting Policies - a) The accounts are prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) FRS 102, “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” effective October 2019, the Companies Act 2006, and applicable accounting standards. ## b) Incoming Resources All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income: - All Grants and Donations are included in the accounts upon receipt. Those relating to vehicles bought during the period are included in the Balance Sheet under Vehicles Grants Reserve with a release to Income and Expenditure Account as the grant is used to pay for the vehicle. General Grants received and applied are credited to Income and Expenditure Account. Non vehicle related grants received but not applied at the Year End are carried forward under Creditors (Grants Received and not yet used). - Donated services and facilities are included at the value to the charity where this can be quantified. The value of services provided by volunteers has not been included in these accounts - Investment income is included when receivable - Incoming resources from charitable trading activity are accounted for when earned - c) Resources Expended Expenditure is recognised on an accrual basis as a liability is incurred. The company voluntarily become VAT registered from 1[st] February 2008. As a result VAT is not shown as an income or expenditure unless it is irrecoverable. Costs in furtherance of the Charities objects include the direct running costs of the vehicles. Expenditure is broken down as follows: - Vehicle costs include all expenditure associated with keeping a vehicle on the road, including insurance, repairs and servicing and fuel and depreciation of the vehicle - Establishment costs include expenditure associated with the office such as postage, stationary and literature and office equipment. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 15 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED - Management and administration costs relate to the organisation’s central running costs such as public liability insurance and trustee insurance, driver licences and expenses incurred by volunteers carrying out their work - d) Fund Accounting - Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity. - Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the Management Committee for particular purposes. - Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor or through the terms of an appeal - e) Fixed assets Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. The costs of minor additions or those costing below £500 are not capitalised. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of each asset over its expected useful life. On Motor Vehicles depreciation is calculated on the basis of a percentage reduction in the residual value each year. Other equipment is depreciated as shown below. The rates in force being: - a. New Vehicles 25% b. Second-Hand Vehicles 50% - c. Office equipment, excluding computer hardware, is written off on purchase - d. Computer hardware is written off on a straight line basis over 3 years Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 16 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## 3. Operating Grants and Donations |Unrestricted funds
Gifts / Donations received
Fundraising income
Other Grants
Restricted funds
Gifts / Donations received
Fundraising income
Other Grants|2025
£
100
-
-
100
2025
£
-
-
55,120
55,120|2024
£
80
-
-
80
2024
£
-
-
-
-| |---|---|---| |||| ## 4. Vehicle costs |Petrol, Oil and fluids
Vehicle equipment
Vehicle insurance
Vehicle tax, MOT and operating licences
Repairs and maintenance
Vehicle hire
Sundry Operating Costs
Route Costs
Depreciation – (Vehicle)
Establishment Costs
Postage, Stationary and Literature
Web site
Telephone|2025
£
2741
-
959
425
2041
-
191
32
2401
8,790
2025
£
-
168
1224|2024
£
2544
-
1870
562
1281
-
170
36
4356
10,819
2024
£
-
-
1141| |---|---|---| ## 5. Establishment Costs Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 17 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |6.|Office equipment
Depreciation – (Computer)
Management and Administration Expenses
Volunteers expenses
Training
Conference fees and subscriptions
Publicity
Accountancy fees
Bank Charges
Sundries
Driver Licence and Medical fees
Public Liability and Trustee insurance
Charitable gifts made
Bad Debts written off|1392
2025
£
56
-
46
247
18
90
768
45
1270|-
-
1141
2024
£
-
-
21
-
18
83
-
-
744
-
-
866|-
-
1141| |---|---|---|---|---| ## 7. Taxation As a charity, The Muncaster Microbus Ltd is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or S256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. No tax charges have arisen in the Charity. ## 8. Employees The Company has no full-time or part time employees. All driving duties and administrative duties are supplied by volunteers. ## 9. Tangible Fixed Assets |Cost as at 1st April 2024
Additions at Cost
LessEliminated on Disposal
Cost as at 1st April 2025
Depreciation as at 1st April 2024
Charge for year to 31st March 2025
LessEliminated on Disposal
Depreciation as at 31st March 2025|Motor Vehicles
£
96,568
-
31,747
64,821
83,498
2401
(27,403)
58,496|Motor Vehicles
£
96,568
-
31,747
64,821
83,498
2401
(27,403)
58,496|Motor Vehicles
£
96,568
-
31,747
64,821
83,498
2401
(27,403)
58,496| |---|---|---|---| ||||| ||||58,496| Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 18 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |10.
11.|Net Book Value as at 31st March 2024
Net Book Value as at 1st April 2025
No other Depreciation
Debtors and Prepayments
Debtors
- Vehicle Charges
- Insurance Claim
Prepayments – New Vehicle Deposit
VAT – Not yet repaid by HMRC
Less – Bad Debts written off
Creditors– Amounts falling due within one year
Operating Grants Received and not yet used
Sundry Trade Creditors
Other Creditors
Accrued Expenses|13,070
6,325
Other
£
-
2025
£
976
-
4167
182
5,325
-
5,325
2025
£
-
-
-
-
-|2024
£
445
-
-
249
694
-
694
2024
£
-
296
-
-
296| |---|---|---|---| ## 12. Vehicle Grants Reserve The Grants received in 2024 / 2025 were received solely as initial payments for the purchase of a new Sprinter Minibus and have therefore been shown as a restricted fund. These grants are planned to be spent in 2025//26 FY when the vehicle purchase in complete Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 19 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED ## Restricted Funds |Restricted Funds||| |---|---|---| |Balance brought forward
GDF Grant for Mercedes Sprinter
Mid Copeland GDF Grant for Mercedes
Sprinter
South Copeland GDF Grant for Mercedes
Sprinter
South Cumberland Community Fund
LessRelease to Income and Expenditure
Account
Balance carried forward|2025
£
0
5,000
34,062
14,597
1,461
4,167
50,953|2024
£
0
-
-
0
0| |||| ## 13. Vehicle Replacement Reserve This reserve is to provide funds to allow future purchases of replacement vehicles by the company. The Management Committee previously allocated £15,000 to this reserve in support of the plans to purchase a new vehicle in the future. It has also been agreed that £15,000 from the sale of the Vito vehicle should be added to this account. It is expected that other reserves can be used to complete the purchase of the new Mercedes sprinter expected in 2026 so as things stand this reserve is expected to be available for the purchase of future vehicles beyond this. |Balance brought forward
Transfer of funds from Accumulated Funds
Account
LessRelease to Income and Expenditure
Account
Balance carried forward|2025
£
15,000
15,000
-
30,000|2024
£
15,000
-
-
15,000| |---|---|---| |||| ## 14. Contingency Reserve This reserve is allocated by the Management Committee on an annual basis. The reserve is established to reduce risk against loss of grant income or other event which severely impacts on income. The Management Committee have agreed to increase this to £20,000, due to inflation and increased expenses incurred. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 20 of 21 THE MUNCASTER MICROBUS LIMITED |Bad|Balance brought forward
Transfer of funds from Accumulated Funds
Account

LessRelease to Income and Expenditure
Account
Balance carried forward
Debts
Unable to find VAT Invoice so VAT not
claimed
Missing Vito Float|2025
£
12,500
7,500
-
20,000
2025
£
33
15
48|2024
£
12,500
-
-
12,500
2024
£
-| |---|---|---|---| ||||| ## 15. Bad Debts ## 16. Exceptional items None ## 17. Trustee Remuneration and Related Party Transactions No members of the Management Committee received any remuneration during the year. Travel expenses of £22.50 were paid to one Trustee. Trustees purchased receipted items to the value of £760 on behalf of the company and were subsequently repaid by the company. No trustee or other person related to the charity had any personal interest in any contract or transaction entered into by the charity during the year. ## 18. Contingencies and Commitments None ## 19. Status The Company is a Private Company limited by guarantee without a share capital and is a registered charity. Company No: 4529248 Registered Charity No: 1097959 Page 21 of 21 The Muncastsr Mlcfobus Llmltod Independent examinerfs report to The Muncaster Microbus Limited I report on the accounts for Thè MurKa$lw MiNo1x￿ Limited for the year e￿jed 31 Maith 2025 8el oul on page8 131021. Rtsp•¢tive responsibilities of trustees and Independent examlner The charities trnstees (who are also Ihe diieclow5 of the wrrpany trjr the purFX)se of company lawl afe iesponsiiAe lor the preparation of Ihe accounts. The tnjslees o)nsider that an audit is not required for Ihis year under section 144 01 the Charities Act 2011 (the Charitbes Act), and Ihat an inde￿ndent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to examine the acctyjnts under sectim 145 of Ihe Charities Ad, to follow th• procadurès laid down in the General Directions given by thè Charty Commi55ion urkyer section 145{51{bl ofthe Act. and to stste whelhgr particular matters have come to my attention. Ba818 of independènt examiner's slatoment My examination was carried out in *cord#n¢e ￿th the Gerwal Directio￿ 9Nen by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of thtr a¢xountiThJ record5 kepl by the charity and a Comparison of the accounts presentad with those records. It also indudes consideration of any unusval items or disc105ures in the accounts. and seeking explanations from you as trustees concèming any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all th& ￿Idence that would bè required in an au(lii and c￿Sequentty no opinion is given as to whéthèr the accounts present a'true and fair view and the feport is limi18d to thosè matters set OLrt in the statemenl below. Independ•nt •xaffliner's Stat•ment In ctsnn￿ with my examinats"on, no matter has come to my altenlion: whid) gives me reasonable cause to believe that any rnater1￿ in re5F*(l of Ihe roquir&ments." to keep proper ￿Unting reLords in aCCor￿ce with Sectic￿ 386 of the Companies Act 2(K)6; and lo prepare accourts which aCcC￿d Vhlh the accountirwJ rlwrds compty wrth the a¢￿u￿b"n9 requirements ol section 3* of the Companies Act 20C6 aThJ with the meth¢)Js and principles of the Statement of R8￿mmerK1ed PrxtKe'. Accwntsng and Reporb"ng by Charities have not been mel.. or have not been ￿￿1.. or to whith, in my opirwn. attentK)n should be drawn in wder to *rob￿ a proper understanding of the Emma Woodend BA(HONS) BFP FCA Assoclate roblnson+¢o, Charter¢d A¢¢ountsnts The Old Forge Beck Place Gosforth CA20 1AT 17th December 2025