# -_, St Mary with Christ Church 

## Annual report 

## and 

## Financial Statements 

## of the 

Parochial Church Council 

## of the 

## Ecclesiastical Parish of 

St Mary with Christchurch, Wanstead 

## for the 

Year ended 31 December 2022 Registered Charity Number 1127753 

Priest in Charge: The Revd. James Gilder Christchurch, 

Wanstead Place, Wanstead 

## Banks: 

NatWest Bank, High Street, Wanstead HSBC Bank, Electric Parade, George Lane, South Woodford CCLA Investment Management Ltd, Cheapside, London EC2 

Independent Examiner: Lorraine Catherine Purdy FCCA, Clay Raitnage Strevens & Hills 



## Contents 

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|RECONS(ODOMscssisscsasssssscssscacneceacuseesnansaceeascoasevaancnaaaeeyeena<br>tueSOAERATEAGIRAEE co<br>ndanesnraaneerend|
|Church Warden's REDONS scsssisvesessecsvvexseuseccnsssesvexseusveeverexcesesveseeneussesvegsesensveseocneauceeeseo)|
|Lay Leaders REPOST...eceescneeesseeenenenecceceserenecenscnecenscenecsencsenssscacsecnsacsesssacsesensnereP|
|Children and Youth snxusccncnnnmomncannnnunnmunnmnnmannmmnnmnucnamecamumese | ||
|ACTIVITIESONG GrOUPS ..0...<br>eeeeeccsececcesnencceceseseceseserenereateeseseeassssnssaseseessessessseserrereess ED|
|Report of Bectoral Roll OMcerssssccsesmcnascmmmanemmnms LF|
|Belotisiits, WEAGINGSONG FURGIOS<br>scccccssnnnannensnimencnmmmnuncwomnaes 1B|
|The Parish Church Council...<br>cseeccccccccccsceccceceececseseeessscssresecnssnscscsctscerestesstatstesaeeee 1Q|
|LoyVice Ghal's REMONcescsescascereswncermerneverssennmananpesceonnexecensvsaserpeereummcevcsmeonemnenenunas LO|
|COMMIUHEEREPOS............ceeeccccsececsecceeseseecseceseeccssseneecessescecseseesserserestecesescccseceseseesesDI|
|Headteacher's Report, Wanstead Church SCHOOI................cssscecesencreccecesescessseeseee 20|
|FINANCIA<br>REVIEW ...........ccccccceescesesscecereessesccsessesscsencuccestansenacaceserersacuseestsscescsesensesenens LO|
|Independent Examiner's REPOMT...............2cseccececceccecceecececeecescecaeceeceseececcerseerd||



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## introduction 

2022 saw the end of the Covid pandemic, and while Covid continued to affect many people, the introduction of new vaccines meant that the effect was less devastating, with the result that by the end of the year our churches were open for normal services, and all the activities we had previously enjoyed were reinstated. 

In May Revd Chris Taylor, the House for Duty priest, left to return to Cumbria. The Pansh thanks him for all his work and wishes him well in his retirement. The Revd Canon Martyn Hawkes continued to act as Interim Priest in Charge until October, the Parish benefitting greatly from his quiet wisdom and to whom we also give our thanks. in May Revd James Gilder joined the parish to help out our severely overworked minisiry team. Fortunately, he liked the Parish enough to apply for the post of Priest in Charge, and on October 6th he was duly Licensed and Installed. 

Thanks are due to Revd Olive Thursby and Revd Richard Wyber, who work so hard to minister to the needs of the Parish, and to Revd James Gilder as he begins his ministry with us. Hopefully 2023 will see the appointment of a new House for Duty Priest fo join the team 

## Rector's report 

Although i was only licensed some six months ago, my presence in the parish now extends to more than a year and it has been a good experience to see how far we have travelled in this time. 

If one was to think of an appropriate analogy for the Parish of Wanstead, it might be that of a mighty ship that was launched onto the world's oceans many years ago. The crew and passengers have changed many times over those years, and all have made their mark in steering, guiding others and themselves journeying in this vessel, through both calm and rough seas, and the occasional storm. 

In some ways, this has felt like a year where we have been required to take our ship into dry dock in order to make some much-needed repairs, before relaunching it again. There has been a necessary focus on shoring- up those parts which were letting in water; mending the rigging and (sometimes literally) repainting the exterior! The new captain is taking a little time to get fo know his crew rather than seeking to make any vast changes to the schedule at this point, and it feels fo me that we are managing relatively-successfully to put HMS Wanstead back into the sea again, without too many people having fallen overboard, jumped ship or found themselves forcibly marooned. 

It has been good this year to see increased congregations across our services, admittedly still recovering from the low-point of Covid. There has been a flourishing of interest in our Lent groups and this needs now to be a launching pad for other small groups to take into account our younger adult congregations, some of whom were confirmed during the year. Our lay ministry has gone from strength fo strength and the challenge will now be fo encourage people to take this further, possibly by running the Christian Studies Course ourselves. 

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We have re-instigated choral evensong and the choir has now hopefully been set on a secure course, with the challenge now being to develop this service as something that people new to London might like to travel here to attend, given iis increasing scarcity. Jazz Vespers has continued to attract a different crowd to church. Our Reach Out Committee has been extremely active in fundraising and organising community work, and our Friends have been equally busy. Our young people's work has increased in numbers this year, with far-better participation in Junior Church and very steady numbers at youth club and Little Angels. Christmas attendances were good and we were commended in the wider community for our response to the death of HM Queen Elizabeth Il, which drew many people to church. There are now committed teams at both our churches, charged with the responsibility of keeping the church buildings looking loved. The parish magazine has made a comeback, attempting to bring people together and keep the parish informed, and a new website is on its way. 

There have, of course, been difficult times too - and there always will be. We have lost key people who have moved away or sadly died. Not all the hurt that exists from times past has yet been healed. | occasionally feel overwhelmed with the workload. Despite these difficulties, what we must keep in mind is that we have a dual focus: welcoming those who find a home with us whilst nurturing them and their faith, and looking beyond the walls of our buildings to see what God is doing in the world and how we might best join in. | hope that we can also weave into this a healthy dose of fun and friendship, which is what every good parish thrives on. 

Whereas repairing small boats and changing their course is a relatively simple exercise, the task of doing so on a larger vessel is considerably more difficult. Occasionally it can feel like a task that is beyond us. However, we ought to remember that it tended to be small changes that Jesus effected during his ministry, which made the most difference to people's lives. The suggestion to Simon Peter and his brother to cast their nets over fhe other side of the boat was so ridiculously simple as to be laughable, yet it was this small change that, with God's help, yielded their boat's biggest catch. As we sail ever-onwards let us be alive to what God is felling us in the small things as well as the large. 

There are far too many people whom | might well use this space to thank. You make this is a wonderful place. | am hugely grateful to all of you who willingly give up your time to help make our parish what it is. | love being your priest and | regularly pray for you all, often individually by name. tt ts a privilege to do so. 

## Yours, 

Fr James Gilder {i.e. The Cap'n) 

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## Church Warden's Reports 

## St Mary's 

It has been a busy year as we came out of Covid and returned to a version of normality. 

The church has a service each Sunday except for the third Sunday of each month. The first Sunday of each monih is a Eucharist. The following week is a Lay Led service from the book of Common Worship. The fourth Sunday we take our service from the Book of Common Prayer. Each Wednesday evening there is a service of compline at 8pm. 

We have a strong and talented group of Lay Leaders who have enhanced our services on our return fo a type of normal, after the Covid break. The music direction of our services is guided and led by Alison Wells. 

Our Organists are mainly unpaid, so | thank, Martin Wheatly, Michael Tivey, Richard Williams and Alison Wells for their dedication and talent which enhances our services. Thanks also to Joe Waggott who has been a marvellous Director of Music and parish organist. 

It would be a very long list of names if | were to thank everyone individually who is a vital part of the life at St Mary’s as it is practically every member of the congregation. 

The number of people who would say that they are regular attendees is over 80 persons. The average attendance each Sunday is c 40. 

The church is well cared for by a number of volunteers who ensure the church is kept clean and tidy. The Saturday morning groups are referred to as PODs. These are arranged and looked offer by Sue Paterson. We also have an active group of gardeners who ensure the churchyard is kept neat and tidy. We thank Phil Ryan who organises a dedicated group and plans the necessary seasonal works that need to be undertaken. The Sunday Coffee rota is run by Maureen Mediey and is well supported. Margaret Thoresby organises the flower arranging team. 

We are blessed with a rather talented choir which is overseen by Alison Wells and Fr James. 

Our church office is managed by Lorraine Bucknall. Loraine organises the annual servicing of equipment and supports by producing the printed items that we require for our services each week. 

Appreciation and thanks to Jan Andrews who is responsible for arranging our Christenings, Weddings and Funerals. 

We have a large compliment of sides-people, readers, intercessors and sides people who are all marshalled by Sue Paterson. 

Lynetie Baptist is our sacristy minister and oversees the monthly Eucharistic service. 

Christopher Parkinson and co-author Dr Penny Hebgin-Barnes are compiling a catalogue of stained glass up to 1800 in Essex using the original county boundary so as to allow inclusion of much fine glass now in the eastern London Boroughs. This 

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Catalogue is for the Corpus Vitrearum Medii Aevi, a charitable academic group based at York University. They were particularly interested in Francis Eginton's two heraldic panels in the east windows of the North and South aisles dating back to 1790. Once their catalogue is published, | am hoping to have copies available for the parish. 

We have begun to plant trees to replace the diseased Ash trees which had to be felled. 

Easter services were well attended and the walk on Psalm Sunday from Christ Church to St Mary’s was well populated which included a stop outside the George pub for us to sing a few hymns. 

Development of the ‘Poppy Trail’: during the pandemic further research was undertaken in the churchyard, furthering the work of Phil Ryan and others, we were surprised to find that, far from the 17 graves memorialising victims of war that we had previously known about, there are actually over 70 victims of various wars buried or remembered at St Mary’s, including civilians. Thanks to the generosity of a parishioner, we are now marking these graves with a simple red poppy on a steel stem and this has created a poppy trail through the graveyard which will be supplemented, when possible, by a guide to those commemorated. 

During the year, four new benches have been placed in the churchyard donated by parishioners. 

The disabled access by lift has been condemned. A temporary solution is in hand. 

As part of the Queens 70!" Jubilee celebrations, a day of meriment was held in the churchyard to coincide with the RAF fly past. St Mary’s is used as a navigation point on these occasions, so makes for a unique view point of the spectacle. It is estimated that close to a thousand people visited the Churchyard that day. 

Our links with Wanstead High School resumed with several visits of their students to engage with the history of the area and our church. 

The summer of 2022 was one of the hottest on record. With the danger of fire in the churchyard due to the dry grass, much of the foliage along the south wall of the church was removed as a precaution. 

HM the Queen passed away on 8' September 2022. Books of condolence were set up for people to leave tribufes to her late majesty. The bell was tolled for a full hour at the same time as bells were being rung across the country. Following so quickly from the celebrations of her jubilee, there were many visitors who lif candles and left their thoughts in a book of remembrance that was then forwarded to King Charlies. 

Open House and Wanstead Fringe: we again opened the doors of St Mary's for the annual Open House event. During the ‘Fringe’ which lasted two weeks, we opened the crypt to afternoon and evening tours on seven separate days. The tours raised valuable donations toward the improvements planned to the crypt entrance and to install lighting inside. Discussions have started with the parish architect to further this project. 

6 



Lucy Crow and Joe Walter's concert, called ‘Fanfare to the Fringe’, was held on the 9th Sept. The well attended concert started in church and moved outside after the interval with Lucy & Joe performing from the portico steps. The Taco truck and bar were provided by The Duke. All money raised was donated to Haven House Children's Hospice. 

A well-attended, Harvest Supper was held in the driveway of the churchyard to excellent musical accompaniment. 

The Aldersbrook Community Choir laid on a musical event, ‘East London's Lost Palace’ as a narrated concert celebrating the history of Wanstead House. Funds were donated to the continuing repair and upkeep of St Mary's. 

The organ at St Marys has undergone tuning and repairs which should have it in good condition for its 100 birthday in 2023. 

November 2022 saw the reintroduction of Evensong in the parish. 

The electricity board have replaced the regular meter with a ‘Smart Meter’ at St Mary's. 

Working with the community, St Mary's made part of the churchyard available for Christmas Tree sales. Christmas trees were donated to St Mary’s and the Rectory by the sellers, and profits went to a local charity. 

Thanks to the 20 + personnel who helped decorate St Mary's for the Christmas services. A good fun day of hard work, mince pies and hot wine. 

The Nine Lessons and Carols service returned in full this year with well over 300 persons attending. 

An account of the Music at St Mary’s willbe commented on by Alison Wells in another section of this report 

We continue to be thanked for the warm welcome that worshipers receive at the church. 

## Ralph Halli 

## Christ Church 

As normality has returned post-Covid and with the arrival of our new Priest in Charge, Christ Church usually holds 2 services on a Sunday and a one ona Thursday. The 9.00 Family Eucharist is very busy with around 90 adults and 60 children, usually supported by Deputy Church Warden Jenny. The 10.30 Eucharist has around 70 adult worshipers. The Thursday Eucharist is a very important service for older members of the parish. The 10.30 service does vary some Sundays: on the first Sunday of the monih, it is lay led Morning Prayer, the third Sunday sees St Mary’s joining for a joint Euchanist and on the last Sunday of the month, there is a joint Family Eucharist at 9.30 replacing the other two services. Additional services at Easter and Christmas were very busy and the church was used for several Christmas concerts. 

Many thanks to the lay leaders, organists, flower arrangers, money counters, choir, readers, servers, welcomers, coffee makers, bell ringers and intercessors — too many 

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to mention individually, but whose contributions are much valued and without which our services would not be the same. Many thanks also to Joe Waggott for his contribution as Director of Music and parish organist. 

lam delighted that Ann Corne has recently taken up the challenging position of Sacristan, vacant for some fime, and has started to catch up with a backlog of minor maintenance and work so the linens, silverware, etc. are returned to full glory. 

We also have an active group of gardeners who ensure our gardens are kept neat and tidy, a real resource for the community and an extension of the park that surrounds it. Unfortunately, the large cedar tree on the lawn by the south porch died in the hot summer of 2022 and must be felled. 

The Friends were able to run several events in the hall and gardens which not only raised money for the parish, but also brought people into our church. Jazz vespers also returned as part of the Wanstead Festival. The Seventh Day Adventists continue to worship in Christ Church on Saturday morning and their rent is very welcome. Father James and | happened to be in a church meeting at the announcement of the sad death of Her Majesty the Queen in September, so we were able to toll the church bell to mark the sad occasion. 

Many people have found it difficult to source reliable tradespeople for small works in 2022 and Christ Church is no exception, but progress has been made with several essential small works, often kindly undertaken or overseen by Alan Dowers, with support from the Fabric Committee. The tower remains in a precarious condition and will be the subject of a further lottery bid in 2023. The heating system is working on less than half power and has been supplemented with an electric heater in the coldest weather, thank you ito all for your patience and putting on your big overcoats. Huge thanks too to the volunteer group who repainted and mended the South Porch: Gary Owen, John Garlick, Ed Fosbrook, Neil Hepworth, and Phil Carnelley. 

| totally back up Ralph's report and thank yous, and while | hesitate to pick out some special people by name because| will undoubtedly forget someone important {there are just so many of you!) a huge thank you to Ann Cheetham who led our poppy appeal, Sue Fitzgerald for taking on the 10.30 coffee rota (she keeps promising gin but it hasn't materialised yet...), Margaret Adams for organising deep cleans of the church at Lent and Advent etc, Avril Carnelley for the reading and intercessor rota, Lauren Johnson who goes above and beyond including mending the hall floor, Beryl Darling who chairs Reach Out, and Eleanor Taylor for the sidespeople/welcomers rota. 

They say it takes a village to raise a child, and it most definitely takes an entire village to maintain a Victorian building and 1960's hall, as well as a busy programme of services, for which | am deeply grateful. 

## Barbara Hepworth 

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## Lay Leaders Report 

The Lay Led services both in St. Mary's and Christ Church, have continued to be weil received by the congregation, who have been complimentary about both content and delivery. 

The team is growing; we are grateful now to have Jenny Griffiths and Howard and Eleanor Smith joining us which helps to spread the load but we are always keen to encourage anybody who feels called, to join the team and lead services in either or both churches. 

Alison Wells has kindly continued to manage the rota, coordinating with Avril Camelley on the Christ Church side. A positive development has been that more Lay Leaders who predominately worship at one church, are happy fo help lead in both churches, which is a welcome step forward. 

As well as the Sunday services, we have continued to enjoy the office of Compline every week on a Wednesday at 8.00pm at St. Mary’s. Susan Holdham has led this service from the outset and continues to do so, for which we are all very grateful. It offers an oasis of serenity, reflection and the chance to spiritually “reboot” in the middle of the week. 

Besides Compline, the lay leaders (largely) read at our Christmas poetry and music service, building on previous similar services for Christmas, Pentecost and Palm Sunday. 

With the recent addition of monthly Evensong, Lay Leaders now have the opportunity to try their hand at preaching, offering their own thoughts and observations, more fully than the homily/reflection of the regular Sunday Lay Led services. 

In November, the Lay Leaders enjoyed an “Away Day” at the House of Retreat at Pleshey. This was a valuable opportunity for the Lay Leaders to all gather together and worship together. 

We had an introduction from Revd Olive of the parish resources available to the Lay Leaders and discussion about further resources online, followed by a presentation by Fr James, setting our liturgy in history and context. Then followed Compline and a welt-deserved trip to the pub! 

On the Saturday morning, we had a service led by Philip Carnelley with a homily by Fr Richard, then breakfast before the rest of the program. 

=| 




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We enjoyed a session led by Caroline Caroline Harding, Diocesan Lay Ministry Adviser, where she discussed how the diocese diocese valved lay leadership. With her description of the wider diocese, we quickly realised how lucky we we are in Wanstead, to have the number of people willing to volunteer for Lay for Lay Lay Leadership and and Caroline congratulated us on our efforts and success. Other parishes parishes are not so so lucky! 

We also learned about further possibilities possibilities which were were open to those who felt they wanted to undertake courses in ministry and theology. 

The proceedings closed with a session led by a good and longstanding friend to the parish, Revd Chris Mackenna. He both informed, entertained and moved us with stories from his past, whilst discussing how we might attend to our own spiritual nourishment. 

It was a splendid way to wind up the retreat! 

Lay Leadership has over the last couple of years, become an important part of the worship of this parish and as we move forward with a new Rector, we look forward to contributing in whatever way we can, as the demands of the parish change and grow. 

Lay Leadership Team 

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## Children and Youth 

Our work with children and young people across the parish has continued to enjoy a good degree of uptake and interest, albeit with a somewhat lesser degree of commitment from parents to assist or join in. 

The Bridge Youth Club was relaunched in September and | am grateful for the help of Fr Tom Britt and of Clare Reeves, our Children and Families’ Liaison, in making this a success, We will be taking the young people on a summer camp and | propose to scrap the unpopular Youth Eucharist in favour of a new Sunday evening group called ‘Prayer and Pizzas’, which will be held for young people once a month at the Rectory. Junior Church has been moved to the 9am service, and this has meant a far better attendance, as this tends to be the service that younger families attend. This has meant that there is little provision for younger people at the 10:30am CC service — something of a challenge. St Mary's have been discussing how better to provide for younger people at our 11am. 

The clergy team are in the Church School each week, taking assemblies, and | have run two successful handbell clubs this year, as well as teaching some lessons in Years 6 and 2. The challenge is now to reintegrate the school with the parish, to the extent that there are services where the school attends. 

The majority of work with children and young people in this parish has been accomplished by the Red Balloon Fellowship. This brings benefits of experience, flexibility and resources. However, it poses the challenges of management of an external agency and a lack of connection between those leading the groups and the parish as a whole. We ought to recognise that, whilst RBF do a good job, it is a sign of our weakness rather than a sirength that all our work in this regard is essentially contracted-out, because it means we are not currently growing the right leaders in this area from our own congregations. This is a challenge that many churches have, and is one we need to address. 

## Fr James Gilder 

## Little Angels 

Little Angels meet on Wednesday mornings in Christ Church from 10am to 11.15am in term time. We attract up to twenty-five children and twenty-five adults. The session follows the pattern of a bible story, songs and an activity. It is an example of a parish community initiative and has been running for a number of years. We attract young children, parents, grandparents and carers including church families but mostly families from the community of Wanstead and the local area. We have had a very successful year, including a Christmas party and a Teddy Bears Picnic in July in the Church Garden. We continue to build relationships with everyone. We are always looking for volunteers to help with refreshments in this very important outreach work in the parish. 

## Revd Olive 

il 



## ACTIVITIESAND Grours 

## Prayer Group 

Prayer Group continues to meet on Tuesday at 10 am in Christ Church. There is a nucleus of people who attend regularly, and others who drop in from time to time. New members or visitors are always welcome. It was inspired by the much-missed Valerie Gritten; we still follow her basic format and use her set prayers. (We often find it helpful to ask what she would have said or done about some issue.) She wanted it to coniribute through prayer to the life and work of the parish, and to give group members an opportunity to learn more about prayer and develop our prayer life. 

We begin with a brief round-up of our week, focusing on areas where we feel the need of prayer in our lives, or that are affecting our prayer life. A short reading on prayer brought by one of the group members (these are quite diverse — we have had readings by the comedian Frank Skinner and the poet Malcolm Guite among others) is followed by discussion. The set prayers help to centre and ground us; they lead into a period of silent reflection, and then intercessionary prayers (for the local church and community, for the wider world, and for ourselves, our friends and our families), the Lord's Prayer, and a reflection on short bible texts (Lectio Divina), ending with the Grace. We aim to do all this in about an hour and 20 minutes. We vary the approach from time to time; for example, the programme for Lent 2023 focuses on Ignatian Prayer. 

## Lin Taylor 

## The Community Sponsorship Scheme 

The members of the Core Group are Avril Carnelly (The Parish of Wanstead), Paul Godin (Our Lady of Lourdes), Katherine Jacques (The Parish of Wanstead), Sheba Lockley (St Mary's South Woodford}, Fionnuala Manzie (Our Lady of Lourdes}, Diana Middleditch (The Parish of Wanstead), Michaela Mouquet (Our Lady of Lourdes}, Eleanor Taylor (The Parish of Wanstead), Anna Tivey (The Parish of Wanstead}, Deborah Dickinson {The Parish of Wanstead}. 

This ecumenical group continued to work supporting the family with the legal requirements of the scheme, and social inclusion in our community. The main focus during this year has been transition planning to support the family in independent living. The group met fortnightly at the beginning of 2022 moving to monthly meetings during the year. The group continued to: meet Home Office requirements; liaise with RESET; engage with/ attend training courses and advise another church group beginning their sponsorship application. 

## Deborah Dickinson Lead Sponsor 

## Beli Ringers 

Last year ! reported that we had hoped to keep the bells going as much as possible and to prioritise Sunday morning service ringing. Regretfully, | have to report, that this objective has not been properly achieved and the bells for the most part have remained silent. After some earlier progress, it has become difficult to regularly get 

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sufficient numbers of ringers for the Sunday service, other than for the odd occasion. This is largely due to the legacy of Covid, and to several ringers being involved with other church duties. In this respect, again, our thanks must go to Sian Paterson and Jem Green, for combining ringing with their duties at St Mary's. We are also very grateful for the continuing support of Andrew Barham, who is an ace ringer, and has helped us all to progress in the art of change ringing. Andrew has organised, and is continuing to organise, practice sessions for learners at St Marys Woodford on Monday evenings. One of our potential Christ Church ringers, Pat Sharp is currently learning at Woodford. As is the case with many towers, owing to the pandemic, it has been difficult to generate enough numbers fo hold regular practise nights. We have however on occasions welcomed members from other nearby towers to enable ringing of the full eight bells to take place. 

However, it is not all doom and gloom, and there are some positives. Firstly, | believe Fr James has organised a handbell ringing programme for the school children, which it is hoped will lead to more youngsters becoming interested in change ringing. Secondly, we were able to fulfil ringing for all the scheduled weddings last year and will do so again this year. Thirdly, we rang for the Queens jubilee and later for her funeral. Lastly, in September, we successfully hosted a district ringing competition and meeting. In addition, it should be mentioned that we held a very enjoyable Christmas social celebration, with a meal at the Eagle. 

As has been the case for previous years, we all owe a continuing debt of gratitude fo Christine Wyatt for her efforts in keeping the Church Clock fully wound and operational throughout the year. | would also like to thank John Eyre, who although unable to ring at present, continues to take a keen interest and contributes with his very valuable advice regarding ringing matiers. 

Going forward, it is still our aim to keep the bells ringing as much as possible, and to prioritise Sunday morning service ringing. In the short term, we will make a concerted effort to ring on Easter Day, and then have to consider arrangements for the King’s Coronation. In this respect, the national directive, is for bells to be rung at every tower in the couniry. It is however obvious, that to maintain ringing at Christ Church in the fashion that we in the parish have long been accustomed to, we are going to need more ringers and a supporting training plan. | reported last year, that with the closure of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, who had inspected and cared for our bells over many years, we would need to make alternative arrangements. | believe such arrangements have now been made, and an inspection will soon take place. 

Robert Wallis 

## The St. Mary's Gardening Group 

The past year has seen an almost uninterrupted fortnightly Saturday morning churchyard gathering of enthusiastic and energetic members of the above group who have consequently extended their skills profile from gardening to landscaping, tree surgery, restorative stonemasonry and more recenily to carpentry and joinery... 

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Our work is of course entirely voluntary but however many of our 17 members attend, one thing is certain, there will be an immediately visible and rewarding impact on the churchyard! 

The vistas across the site have been opened to the perimeter railings and walls, we've continued the battle against the pernicious brambles and ivy whilst maintaining some undergrowth for the native fauna. Snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils have been planted around the site to add to the Spring glory of the resident flora with further planting to maintain the composted flower beds... 

The beehives have been enclosed by an ‘Alan Dowers' oak fence and most recently a sizeable compost bin built from leftover pallets. The perspective along the southern path behind the church has been transformed by felling the majority of the bay trees which were encroaching on the gallery windows. 

We continue to acknowledge the vital support from Redbridge Council who are responsible for the strimming and mowing of the grass, the heavier arboricultural work and recenily the collection of a significant amount of our excess botanical debris for recycling! Thanks to the generosity of Parishioners, benches and saplings have added fo the attraction of this historical site as a haven for a few minutes of rest and reflection... 

Naturally, we are ever eager to add to our numbers of stalwart volunteers so if you're between Secondary School age and delivery of the King’s telegram and can hold a pair of secateurs, do join us or contact Phil via 01707 876151 or phil.ryan47@gmail.com. All are welcome in the peace, quiet and beauty of our Georgian Gem Churchyard! 

## Christ Church Gardening Club 

The year 2022 presented less challenges for the team than the impacts of the pandemic the previous year but presented new demands on the core team due to the loss of a number of valuable volunteers. The limited numbers meant the team simply focussed upon the essential maintenance and once again resulted in some rougher edges to the gardens. In particular the boundary hedges were unable to be kept under control and lead to a subsequent demand for these to be hard pruned to improve sight lines. 

We are grateful for the continued enthusiasm of the elder members of the team and are blessed with the continued attendance of younger members who also brought friends, and all have enjoyed their experiences and gained valuable skills. 

This year gave us the long hot summer (now a distant memory) but this was not good for the plants and shrubs as the limited water supply killed a number of specimens that, while having been given a chance to recover, will need to be replaced. 

The focus for the gardening club continued to maintain the lawns ensuring availability for all to enjoy. Hedge trimming again avoided the bird nesting season and the secondary areas of the gardens were again allowed to wild to ensure the best environs for wildlife but in fairness these became rather ragged with the hot 

14 



conditions. The wildlife is returning to this area where the buddleias are encouraged to grow tall and provide nectar for the many butterflies. 

Without the compost facility on site the green waste remains a constant problem with one of the team of volunteers kindly carrying the green waste we cannot manage to the local recycling centre. As much grass cutting and other green material remains on site as possible by being chopped and munched by the mowers or shredded where possible. While the plants were mulched the summer was too harsh for this to be effective. This chopping by the mowers is taking its toll upon their performance and replacements are urgently required. 

The mixed hedge along the south path is slowly establishing but has yet to prevent pedestrians walking through gaps and trampling young growth. Adjacent to the south gaie the muddy area where little grew was a blaze of tulip colour in the spring following the bulb planting the previous season. This remains work in progress and our atiention will once again be upon this to improve the appearance. 

The memorial garden suffered damage froma tree that fell across the boundary from the Christchurch green. Rather than awaiting the local authority to arrange the necessary repairs fo the fence the team members undertook this and should be congratulated for returning security to the boundary. The rambler rose Auguste Gervais pianted in memory of a past member suffered from trampling where the tree fell and though sfill small it is hoped this will establish on the repaired fence next year and provide good colour. 

Unfortunately, the magnolia dug into the memorial garden in early 2021 has not survived but is still being given the chance to burst back into life or will be removed in 2023. 

The bug hotel has received many insect visitors and remains an attraction for children of the community. 

The small team of dedicated Volunteers continue to be the very dependable resource and deserve a big thankyou from the Church and wider communities for their efforts. The budget continues to be underspent due to the reduced activity and minimal fuel and consumable expenses and the careful use of the vintage mowers. 

The garden gives pleasure to many, is well used and appreciated by the wider Community but the anti-social behaviour and littering remains a nuisance that spoils this space. It may not be recognised but the first job that is undertaken every session by the gardening club volunteers is fo pick up and dispose of this litter. The time spent doing this obviously reduces time available for the maintenance of the gardens. 

The gardening club members regularly clear the perimeter drains around the church. Without this maintenance the fabric of the church would deteriorate. The front drive is badly affected by poor falls and inadequate drainage but is not a job for the gardening team to undertake and a solution to this annual problem must be sought. 

The Duke of Edinburgh scheme is a good vehicle for children to gain life experiences and their community contribution element can easily be gained by working along with the gardening team and parents are invited to consider promoting this for any 

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children and any parents should they wish to keep an eye. There are many benefits of this volunteering to assist the gardening club including better health and welbeing without the need for particular skills and more are encouraged to join and witness these benefits first hand. The club meets fortnightly Saturday mornings between 09:00 and 12:30 with coffee about 10:30. 

## Steve Davenport 

## Flowers 

## Christchurch 

The flower arrangers at Christ church are now a small team of 5 after we sadly had to say goodbye to Sheila de Beer, who moved away last year. We are grateful to the hard work Sheila put into her arangemenis and the careful attention and personal touch she gave to wedding flowers. Thank you to all our flower arranging team for all the work they do. 

We managed to hold a flower festival last year and we are hoping to do the same this year to coincide with the Wanstead Festival in September. 

We have two pedestals in church, at the high altar and in the Lady Chapel and for weddings it is our intention to have an arrangement in the porch particularly whenever there is a wedding. We do quite often have artificial flowers with fresh foliage at the high altar to try and save money and for the arrangements to be in place for a number of weeks. We as a team have noticed that there has been an increase in the cost of flowers recently so this may have an impact on what flowers we have in church in the future. 

One of the Christmas trees at Christ Church was kindly donated by Jacks DIY, we were very graieful for their generosity. 

We would like to be able to offer flowers in church in memory of a loved one to commemorate perhaps an anniversary in exchange for a donation towards the cost of the flowers. We would need a few more arrangers before we advertised this but it would be lovely to do this at some point in the not too distant future. 

We would welcome anyone who would like to get involved in flower arranging, no previous experience is required! 

## Lorraine Bucknall 

## St Mary's 

It was a pleasure to have the rota of flowers in St Mary's return to normal in 2022. At Christmas in 2021, the church was decked out for the annual carol service and this was repeated and improved in Christmas 2022. It was a joy to see so many people in the church and to hear their compliments and appreciation of the flowers. These were all thanks to the work and effort of the flower arrangers along with the additional help from other members of the congregation as well as the donations of foliage, which are always welcome. 

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At Easter 2022, the church was filled with spring flowers beautifully arranged by the flower arrangers and it was a joy to behold. 

lam immensely grateful to the other three regular flower arrangers for their commitment and energy as well as their beautiful arrangements. We would always welcome newcomers to join the team. No experience is necessary as you can always work with one of the team and learn on the job! 

## Margaret Thoresby 

## After Covid; getting going again. 

## Fr Richard writes 

Although the virus is still with us it has been good to resume some activities which were not possible in 2020 and 2021. 

## Walsingham pilgrimage 

Thus we were able to resume the annual parish summer pilgrimage to Walsingham. It was notable that Rev'd Olive, a regular participant in the pilgrimage for many years, attended for the first time as a priest. The Shrine has not been entirely supportive of women's ministry, so it was good that she was able fo playa fairly full part in her new role. Notable on the return journey was that Fr Richard and his party had to divert from the main road route and that Chris Cummins calmly and expertly navigated us through unfamiliar countryside to Cambridge, whence the M11 and home. 

## Engelskirchen Link 

Another consequence of the virus was that it had not been possible in 2020 and 2021 to exchange hospitality with our link church in Germany, a link shared with Wanstead URC. When the lockdown started it had been our tum to host. Whilst visiting has normally taken place in Easter week, we were keen to get going again, as long pauses are not helpful to such carefully nurtured friendships. So it was that a party from Engelskirchen stayed with us between 1 and 5 October. Among other things we took our guests on a walk through the Royal Parks, touching on places which had been much in the news since the Queen's death, followed by Evensong at St Martin's in the Fields. Now we look forward to a return visit to Engelskirchen at Easter 2023. 

Fr Richard would welcome expressions of interest in both the Walsingham pilgrimage and the Engelskirchen link, especially from younger members of our Parish community. 

## Report of Electoral Roll Officer 

At the end of 2022, the Parish Electoral Roll stood at 392. We had 23 additions during the year and 2 leaving the Electoral rolt who had sadly passed away. 

The Electoral Roll is kept updated anda revised roll submitted for consideration at the APCM. The right to vote at the APCM will be limited to those parishioners who are on the electoral roll on 28! April 2023. 

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Any parishioners wishing to join the Parish Electoral Roll, at any time, are welcome to fill in forms available either in both our churches or obtained from the Parish Office via email to wansteadparishadmin@uwclub.net 

To join the Electoral Roll you need to have been baptised and live in the Parish or if resident outside the Pansh you need to have worshipped with us for at least 6 months. Completed forms should be handed back to the Parish Office. 

## Lorraine Bucknall 

## Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals 

Following the lifting of Covid 19 restrictions, no weddings in 2022 were subject to legal restrictions on the number of attendees. We mamied seven couples at Christ Church, and one at St Mary's (eight couples in total}. 

A total of 22 baptisms were held in 2022, of which 18 were infants, three were children and one was an adult. One baptism was held at St Mary's with the rest being held at Christ Church. 

There were 14 funerals in 2022, of which five were held at Christ Church, three at St Mary's and six elsewhere. Six interments also took place in 2022, of which five were at St Mary's and one was held elsewhere. 

## Jan Andrews 

## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCH 

## Background 

The Charity operates under the Church Representation Rules, 2006 and other regulations of the Church of England. The Parochial Church Council, PCC, has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. it has maintenance responsibilities for the only Grade| listed building in Redbridge, St Mary the Virgin, and for Christ Church, itself a Grade [I* building. The Rector and Churchwardens are trustees of the Church School, which remains the only Aided Church of England School within the borough. 

## Operation of the Charity 

All major decisions are made by the PCC during regular meetings; Standing Committee has the power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council. The Churchwardens, as the leading lay members of the parish, assist the incumbent in the day-to-day administration of church affairs and have authority under canon law. Financial delegation is covered under the Finance Policy, which is displayed in both Churches, is displayed during the Annual Meeting and is generally available on request. 

## Charitable Trustees 

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The Trustees of the Charity are members of the PCC; they are either ex officio, elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, or co- opted in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. Candidates for election are required to complete the Trustee Declaration of Eligibility. Newly elected members are given printed information from the Charity Commission, which explains the responsibilities of trustees. 

Membership of the Parish Church Council 2022 During the year to December 2022 the following served as members of the PCC: Ex-Officio Trustees: 

Priest in Charge: Revd Canon Martyn Hawkes January to October: 

Revd James Gilder October to December 

Associate Priests: Revd Richard Wyber, 

## Churchwardens: 

## Deputy Churchwarden: 

Revd Olive Thursby Mr Ralph Hall, 

Mrs Barbara Hepworth Jones Mrs Jenny Griffiths 

Diocesan Synod Representative: Mr Phillip Carnelley 

## Elected Trustees: (date in brackets is when term ends) 

Ms Equi Ajogbe {2023) 

Mr. Gary Owen (2023) 

Ms Patience Rusinga (2023) 

Ms Djaama Davis, Assistant Treasurer (2024) 

Mrs Sue Oldham, Secretary (2024) 

Ms Lauren Johnson (2025) 

Mr Jem Green (2025) 

Ms Eleanor Taylor, Assistant Secretary (2025) 

## Elecied Trustees by virtue of being representatives on the Deanery Synod: 

three year term of office ends for all in May 2023 

Mrs Margaret Adams 

Mr Joshua Dickinson 

Ms Jenny Griffiths 

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## Mr Neil Hepworth 

Mr James Paterson, Treasurer and Lay Vice Chair 

## Co-opted Member of PCC 

Mr Peter Schaefer, Chair of Friends 

The PCC held six meetings in 2022 with an average attendance of 71% 

## Standing Committee 

This is the only committee required by law. Committee members are The Rector, Lay Vice Chair, Churchwardens, Deputy Churchwarden, Treasurer and Secretary. It has the power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council. 

## Lay Vice Chair's Report 

As | reported last year, we were blessed to have Father Martyn Hawkes appointed interim Priest in Charge to help steer the parish through some challenging times and the interregnum following Father Jack Dunn's departure. We were further blessed in early 2022 to have Father James Gilder join our Ministry Team; James was a welcome support at the time when Dr Chris Taylor was winding down, with his term as Housefor-Duty Priest coming to an end in May 2022. My thanks go to Father Martyn and Dr Chris for their contributions to the parish during these difficult times, which also included the pandemic. 

In the summer, the PCC decided to advertise for a new full-time Priest in Charge (technically, the parish was still in “suspension” by the Bishop, a state required when an interim Priest in Charge is appointed); it was fully contemplated that, as soon as the parish was ready, the suspension would be lifted and the Priest in Charge would be able to become the Rector of the Parish of Wansiead. We were very fortunate that Father James Gilder successfully applied for the position, and James was licensed as Priest in Charge to the Parish of Wanstead on 16" October 2022. It is expected that Father James will become the Rector once formalities are completedto lift the suspension in 2023. 

As we had a Priest in Charge of the parish, the Lay Vice Chair role was much simpler than it would ordinarily have been during an interregnum. With Father James now established in Wanstead, the next chapter of the Parish story has begun! 

James Paterson 

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## COMMITTEE AND OTHER REPORTS 

## Standing Commitiee 

Standing Committee is the only Legally required committee, and consists of the Chair of PCC, the Lay Vice Chair, the two Church Wardens, the deputy Church Warden, the Treasurer, the Secretary, and one observer from the PCC, chosen at the previous PCC meeting. Standing Committee met six times in 2022, usually the month before the full PCC meeting. 

## Redbridge Deanery Synod 

The Redbridge Deanery Synod met four times in 2022. it exists primarily as an information conduit between parishes and the Diocese especially on financial matters. Members elect representatives to the Diocesan Synod. It also shares information regarding charities and acts as a catalyst for other initiatives. 

Topics considered at meetings during the year include the Deanery’s motion to support The Church of England's commitment to environmental change and an introduction to the ‘The New Quinquennium' published by the General Synod in 2022. A highlight of the year was the visit of Bishop Guli, Bishop of Chelmsford in December 2022. 

Wanstead Deanery Synod representatives (who are also ex-officio members of the PCC) were Margaret Adams, Joshua Dickinson, Jenny Griffiths, Neil Hepworth and James Paterson. 

## Mission and Ministry (MMU) Report 

The Mission and Ministry Unit seeks to develop and enhance ministry and mission in our community in partnership with our five local churches. 

The West Roding Mission Partnership committee met three times in 2022. Our Parish was represented by Jenny Griffiths, Joshua Dickinson, Revd Olive Thursby and Fr Martyn Hawkes (January 2022- October 2022) and Fr James Gilder (October 2022 — December 2022) 

Much of the Partnership's work and discussions in 2022 centred on supporting each other and sharing plans for continuing ministry and building communities. 

The parishes in the MMU continue to work together to support the Bereavement Café and Snaresbrook Crown Court Chaplaincy. More volunteers for both these initiatives are always welcome. A four part Pastoral Care basics course took place in January 2022, led by Revd Elizabeth Lowson (St Mary’s Woodford) and Bernard Eaton {St Peter}. A confirmation service was conducted. 

There was a very successful MMU pilgrimage walk/cycle between all four parishes in May, starting in Aldersbrook, and finishing with tea, cake and a short service at St Mary's Woodford. This was a great opportunity for us to get to know our neighbours in a more informal way, and the MMU hopes fo make this an annual event. 

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We remain hopeful that we will see more joint activities and a key focus for 2023 is how we can work together to share worship. 

## Jenny Griffiths and Joshua Dickinson 

## Staffing & Governance Committee 

Did not meet in 2022. The work of this committee has been assumed by Standing Committee during 2022, and this committee will therefore cease to exist in 2023. 

## Parish Music 

The choir at St Mary’s and Christ Church have continued to thrive despite an uncertain 2022 with the departure of our music director. But with the support and direction of Alison Wells and Father James and our team of organists, music has continued to be a sirong, important and much loved part of parish life. 

2022 saw a busy year in musical activities at St Mary’s. Liturgically the music within Sunday services continued to develop. The small choir sing an anthem every week at the lay-led services and at the Communion service. We adopt a flexible approach to repertoire as the numbers aren't always predictable, but the anthem is much appreciated by the congregation. Psalm singing caries on, in Common Worship services we have a responsorial psalm sung by cantors — usually Sian Paterson or Alison Wells, and we have begun to sing the psalm to Anglican Chant in the BCP services, with congregation joining in both these formats. Music at our services is supported by a good band of volunteer organists apart from the 1st Sunday of the month when the Parish organist plays for the Eucharist. Thanks are due to Michael Tivey, Alison Wells, Martin Wheatley, and Richard Williams for generously giving their time and skills. 

Compline is said every Wednesday and accompanied by one of the volunteer organists. A meditative service of Music and Poetry for Christmas with vocal and instrumental music took place on 21st December. In additional to the musical events at Sit Mary’s, the choir has continued to play a huge role at services and events at Christ Church including Father James's licensing and for various services throughout the busy Christmas period. 

The annual Nine Lessons and carol service in December saw a capacity congregation for the first time since Covid. The Parish Choir, led by Fr James Gilder sang a variety of choral items and led the congregation in the carols. 

Apart from music in the services, The Forget-me-not Choir continues to grow. The number of members is now 20, and regular attendance is 15-18, even through the very cold winter we have seen. The FMNs sang a set of songs at the Garden party at Christ Church in May for the older members of the Congregation. They also sang at the Nine lessons and Carols service in December. 

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In July Alison Wells gave a vocal masterclass at St Mary's, working with six lovely singers. A good attendance and drinks were enjoyed outside in the lovely weather. Profits went to parish funds. 

Harvest Supper in September had a good attendance and entertainment was provided by a band featuring Martyn Hawkes, James Gilder, Martin Wheatley and Lee Hayes. 

During the Wanstead Festival in September, star soprano Lucy Crowe, with Joe Walters and friends gave a concert at St Mary's which was very well attended and received. They raised funds for Haven House Hospice 

Aldersbrook Community Choice presented The Lost Palace: The Rise and Fall of Wanstead House 28th September, we had good numbers and donation to parish funds. Other musical events at Christ Church included the flower festival where Sue FitzGerald organised a Sunday of back to back musical performances. This included flute, violin, piano and organ recitals and also performances from a string quartet and a piano duo. 

December saw the return of the East London Chorus at Christ Church who performed a festive concert for all the family. That month Christ Church also hosted Forest School's Christmas services as well as 2 concerts from Redbridge music School. 

A well-attended Jazz Vespers made a welcomed comeback for the new year with hopes for more services in 2023/2024. 

Alison Wells and Sue Fitzgerald 

## Parish Halis Manager 

The Parish halls are becoming more popular since COVID and the numerous lockdowns that were imposed on us. 

The beginning of the year started slowly, we only had 2 or 3 weekend bookings then from March onwards we returned to our pre pandemic busy schedule. 

Our weekly classes have returned and | now have 17 classes that use the halls over a numerous amouni of hours throughout the week. 

From September we had a new club, for both adults and children of all ages, start and they hire fhe halls for 7 hours a week. 

We also now have a regular AA meeting, which, | am told, is a great success for the community. 

The halls are used weekly after the Sunday 9am Family Service, and for coffee following the monthly Parish Eucharist. 

Our regular Parish events gradually returned we hosted six Friends events during the year; 

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We also hosted ‘The Wanstead Fringe’ annual outdoor Kinema event in September. 

We had five Saturdays that were hired out to the ‘Local Makers Market', which is an increase on previous years. 

The halls were closed for 2 weeks in August fo have the parquet flooring sanded and re-varnished. Unfortunately, in November, due to humidity and condensation, some of the blocks started lifting. With help and guidance from Alan Dowers ! was able to make some temporary repairs, which enables us to safely continue hiring out the hall without a loss of income to the Parish. 

| would like to thank Alan for his time and patience. 

Our parish halls remain busy and well used by people of all ages in our community. 

## Lauren Johnson 

## Reach Out! — the Committee covering Mission and Outreach 

The Parish continues to have sirong links with the Refugee Sponsorship Project, Forest Churches Emergency Night Shelter (FCENS), Tin in a Bin and the Corner House Project. Whilst these initiatives are not managed by the Parish, there is a representative of each on this committee is to facilitate communication between US.. 

The Committee met regularly during 2022 to revitalise the outreach activity in the Parish, post pandemic. In accordance with the aim of the committee, events were organised to engage with church members across the parish and the wider community, socially and supportively and to raise funds for charities locally, nationally and internationally. 

The first event held in March was a Lent Lunch, bringing church members together socially for a shared meal and raised £450 for the Afghan Disaster Appeal. 

A Harvest Supper took place in September and raised £568 for Mill Grove. Mill Grove also received Harvest donations of food and other household goods. 

In November the Poppy Appeal raised £152 for the British Legion. 

The parish continues to provide support to Tin in a Bin which is based at St Marys. Parishioners have been generous in bringing donations of food and other household essentials through the year to both churches. These are added to donations from the Tin in a Bin network (consisting of over 50 local sites), collated and redistributed through more than seven local foodbanks throughout the year with additional appeals af Harvest, Christmas and times of crises. 

In December the Toy Sunday and Christmas Gifts appeals through the church and Wanstead Community Hub resulted in generous donations and the redistribution of gifts to Hestia Women's Refuge, Barking & Dagenham Young Carers and other community groups. 

Christmas collections raised £1,800 for the Centre Point charity for young homeless people and Christingle raised £530 for the Children's Society. 

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The Forest Churches Emergency Night Shelter (FCENS) operation accommodated homeless people in a hotel in Ilford. Volunteers from this parish cooked and delivered evening meals and a continental breakfast every Friday from November 2022 and continued through to the end of March 2023. 

To conclude, in the year ahead the Committee aims fo continue and, if possible, to increase, funds raised for local and national charities. The Committee are also discussing ways to engage with people in the church and community who may be lonely or infirm and seeking social interaction. 

The Commitiee proposes to develop an ongoing supportive link in the forthcoming year with an intemational project and to initially discuss this with the PCC. 

## Beryl Darling 

Records, Archives and Data Management Committee Did not meet in 2022. This committee only meets on an ad-hoc basis. 

## The Friends of St Mary with Christ Church Wanstead 

The Friends is a membership group set up as the fundraising arm of the PCC to maintain, repair, restore, improve, and preserve the fabric, monuments, fixtures, fittings, furniture, stained glass, ornaments, and other chattels, of the Churches of St Mary the Virgin and Christ Church Wanstead. 

With Covid a not too distant memory, |! am happy to report that we were able to hold all our planned events in 2022. Our Burns Night, Rock me Baby Disco and Merry Quizmas events all sold out in record time and with glowing reviews we are looking forward to holding them again. We were able to host the Wanstead Village Dog Show in May, the first time in four years; while the event ran smoothly, it was rained off so wasn't as successful as it has been in previous years but will be bigger and better in 2023. We were able to hold an extra event to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in June, with the Fly Past and fantastic weather, the event was a massive success with all our offerings sold out with St. Mary's providing a tremendous back drop. We also held our inaugural Halloween’s Party for under 8's that sold out in five days. 

Friends' Secretary Julia Saul-Watts resigned in September due to work commitments so we thank Jules for all her enthusiasm and hard work over the years. Very happy to report that James Gilder has agreed to become the Friends Secretary so the post is in good hands. At the time of writing, Aimee Johnson has agreed to become Friends Treasurer in 2023, so we welcome Aimee and are thankful to Ed Fosbrook for his service over many years and are very grateful to have Ed’s continuing involvement in the Friends. After seven years of Friends involvement, the last three as Chair, 2023 will be my last full year as Chair due to returning to full time work. Like Ed, however, | shall continue to help out Friends events. 

From only holding two events in 2021 raising £4,000 to holding eight in 2022 raising £8,500, here’s hoping we will be able to hold all of our planned events in 2023 to get back to raising at least £10,000 each year for the general upkeep and maintenance of our beautiful churches. 

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All our events are truly community events that are promoted in the wider community through social media as well as in print in the monthly Wanstead Village Directory, in addition to the usual parish communication channels. 

The Friends would like to thank all those who have supported us in 2022 including alll who gave up their time and energy setting up and packing away events. Noted, it took over 20 volunteers to ensure the successful running of our Wanstead Fayre event, half of whom were current or past parents of WCS. Also to those members of our Parish & Community who supported our events enabling us to raise £8500 for the upkeep of our Churches. It is also right to acknowledge the ongoing support of local businesses Petty, Son & Prestwich, Edwards Duthie Shamash and the Purbani Restaurant who kindly and generously sponsored & supported our events. Last but not least we thank all our Friends members who ensure we can hold reasonably priced events for our Parish and community alike. 

Peter Schaefer, Chair of the Friends 

## Safequarding and Heatth and Safety 

Did not meet in 2022. The parish has a Safeguarding Officer who reports to the PCC and to the Diocese, so this committee will be discontinued going forwards. 

## HEADTEACHER’S REPORT, WANSTEAD CHURCH SCHOOL 

As I've looked back over the past year, it seems unbelievable to think that we started 2022 still in COVID times. 

Our children were still existing in “bubbles” and spent the first part of 2022 having to stay at home whenever they came into contact with someone who had COVID. Thankfully, as the year progressed, things improved and we were able to reinstate much normality for the children at school. 

It was a busy and exciting year in which the teaching staff undertook a huge project to overhaul our curriculum. This was a task that had originally begun in the first lockdown and really came to fruition throughout 2022. By September, the new and improved curriculum was ready to go with lots of exciting and challenging opportunities for the children to enjoy. We have even included Wanstead Church Schookspecific topics, such as a unit on the history of Wanstead Church School within our history curriculum to make the most of our unique and wonderful school. 

Our working party with staff and parents reviewing the diversity, equality and representation within the curriculum continued with some deep and difficult conversations taking place as a matter of course between staff and parents. Longterm commitments were made as a school to ensure this is not just a “project” but a meaningful pledge to ensure all our children are included and represented within their learning experiences. 

As the year progressed, we took great pleasure in enjoying the events that the children had missed for so long. We were able to take the Year 6 children on their residential trip for the first time in two years. This was to a new venue in Danbury. Essex, where the children had four action-packed days of adventure and fun. Trips 

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gradually began to be included in the children’s provision once again, including a wonderful irip for Year 5 to see The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe in the West End. We even had a travelling farm come to visit the children, with a selection of goats, sheep and guinea pigs spending the day in our playground! 

We welcomed audiences back in school for shows and performances, including the Year 6 children’s leavers’ production in the summer and later the full suite of nativities and productions at Christmas. The snow very nearly ruined Christmas for the third year when many schools were forced fo close. Fortunately, Wanstead Church School remained open to the children throughout the terrible weather, with the small change of hosting the junior children's Christmas Tableau in school rather than in Church, where it was rather too cold! 

We have loved reinstating our Sharing Assemblies, where the children have showcased their best work and favourite songs and learning to their families on a Thursday afternoon. Our Open Class sessions have continued to be a huge hit where families are enjoying the children’s work on a regular basis, visiting the classrooms and looking at the books. 

A particular highlight of the year was the revival of the Tom Cury Award, an award that has been given for many years in honour of an ex-Wanstead Church School pupil who died in service in Afghanistan. The first winners were Jessica in Year 5 and David in Year 6, who were considered by staff to uphold the values of the Marines to an excellent standard. 

Wanstead Church School's club offer significantly increased over the course of 2022, including the introduction of our own before and after schoo! clubs, run in school by school staff. Wake Up Wanstead and Wind Down Wanstead have proven very popular with children complaining that they do not want to go home when their parents come to collect them! We've also started working with a new sports provider, Sport-Savvy, who are providing a range of exciting sports clubs. Our new chess club has taken off a storm as has our hand-bells club, run by Father James. 

Improvements to the physical buildings of Wanstead Church School continued throughout 2022, most notably with the erection of a brand-new flat roof, new highlevel windows, new ceilings in the cloakrooms and new flooring downstairs. We were also able, through Diocesan funding, to install lockers for all the children, which has been a brilliant space-saving introduction into our tiny school. 

Another notable event in the year of 2022 had to be the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, where the children enjoyed a whole week of celebration. They took part in a very exciting Royal Variety Talent Show, history lessons about the Queen's life and reign and story writing about the Queen. Parents came into school to make crowns with their children, then after a street party lunch there was the grand crown parade where every child paraded the playground wearing their handmade crowns proudly. Of course, later in the year the Queen's passing also became an event of significance. The children paid their respects graciously and learned to sign the National Anthem as "God save the King”. 

There was much change within the staff team in the summer of 2022 and lots of fresh new faces joined the Wanstead Church School family in September. This included 

27 



the introduction of a new Assistant Headteacher, Miss Grimmer, and a new SENCO, Mrs Jayasuriya. One of the existing Co-Chairs of Governors, Ms Spencer Ellis, became the sole Chair of Governors, and Miss Williams became our new staff governor. Very importantly, we celebrated the appointment of Father James into the role of Rector in the Parish of Wanstead and, by default, onto the goveming body of the Church School. 

Wanstead Church School continues to encourage the children to be Wise, Compassionate and Strong in everything they do and to live by our motto, “We Can Shine!”. 

## Natalie Denchfield, Headteacher 

## FINANCIAL REVIEW 

The principal source of funds for the charity is the regular voluntary giving from our parishioners, which totalled £90,323, up about 2.3% over 2021. There was a reduction in donations received from planned giving, but this was outweighed by a bigger increase in plate collections. The largest portion of donations still come from our planned givers through the Planned Giving Scheme (PGS} and Standing Orders, and the PCC’s thanks go to all of the individuals who support us in this way; without these regular givers, we would have faced a very difficult financial year. We continue to encourage givers to donate using the Planned Giving Scheme as this hugely reduces the administrative time and costs for us and allows us to budget better for the year. 

All the donations that were gift aided enabled the PCC to reclaim £20,837 from HM Revenue & Customs for 2022. We have been aided by the rule which enables us to claim Gift Aid on cash collections up to a maximum of £8,000 for each church in any one financial year. Gift Aid continues to be a critical part of our income, as without recovering these funds, we would not be able to meet our day-to-day running costs. 

Fortunately, 2022 saw the Parish Halls being able to be used without restriction, but the years of uncertainty during the pandemic mean that it has taken time to rebuild bookings. Rental receipts were £62,250, more than double the previous year's number, and nearer to pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019 (£65,447). The running costs were fully met (despite a one-off water bill of £4,000) from hall income, and we have taken steps to reduce the cost of hall cleaning in 2023 which will makea significant difference. 

The net income from the Halls of around £27,000 played an important part in our 2022 financial performance, allowing the parish to return to paying 100% of our parish share, something which looked unlikely in early 2022. 

The Friends were able to host most of their fund-raising activities during 2022 once again and raised a total of £7,187 net towards current and future works required at St Mary’s and Christ Church. The Friends also replaced their barbeque (the last one had faithfully served us 7 years!}. 

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The parish benefited from a grant from the Cottage Trustees, derived from property rental income, which supported the cost of the Parish work with children, young people and families, predominantly using Red Balloon. 

The PCC aims to keep a minimum reserve in liquid funds of £20,000 available at little or no notice for unforeseen contingencies that are not otherwise covered by the insurance policies in place on both our churches and other properties. At the year end the General Fund has reserves of £29,230. 

The PCC holds a number of financial investments arising from past legacies which, instead of being held as cash deposits, are invested with Ceniral Board of Finance unit trusts. All of these funds are Endowment Funds, which means that the PCC benefits from the income but cannot use the principal amount. We continue to be indebted to those faithful panshioners who give a lasting legacy to the parish. Recent legacies 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Received<br>eee eee |<br>[fanHartley[MaryColmer S| 2021] £2,000 ||General_—|_-Unrestricted__<br>John Sunley | 2021S | House£500__—| and MemorialGardenSunley | RestrictedRestricted _<br>pees LL nooo ||<br>[Pauline Walker | 2020 | £2,000 | _—General_|_ Unrestricted_|<br>[Janet LilianMarten | 2020 | £2,000_ ss|_—General_—'|_ Unrestricted __<br>|BarbaratoanGower | 2019 |_~— £1,000 ||_—General__—'|_ Unrestricted_|<br>Joan Brown 2018 & 2019 House and St Mary's Restricted<br>fenton [ee | Mo | | See<br>|BeatriceSmith |= 2018 | £5,000 || St Mary's _—|_—séRestricted _<br>Arthur Worwood 2018 £29,468 Arthur Worwood Designated<br>Aamworwere LA| nse! | Ostet<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


in a typical year, the parish regular income received continues to be very finely balanced with amounts expended on the running of the parish, meaning that any additional costs, particularly for larger projects, will continue to require substantial additional external funding or donations. 

## Parish Share 

As reported in the Financial Review in 2021, the Parish Share for 2022 was set at £116,154 (£114,792 net of fee credit). This is somewhat reduced due to a grant applied by the Diocese. The PCC has budgeted initially to pay £5,000 per month for the first few months and the position was reviewed in August; the monthly amounts paid were increased and a lump sum was also paid to ensure that by the end of December, we had paid the Parish Share in full. Even in a typical year, the planned giving we receive does not cover this expense and we require reclaimed tax {gift aid on giving) and some of the hall income to cover the balance. 

29 



The Parish Share for 2023 has again been reduced, and will be £104,500 after fee credit. However, the PCC will use every endeavour to make additional payments when the parish position is known towards the end of 2023, to make up for amounts not paid prior to 2022. 

## Financial Position at year end: 

The PCC ended the year with seemingly substantial reserves of cash and investments, but these are largely either designated for a particular purpose or formally restricted in use. The uncommitted general funds held are £29,230, a significant decrease from £49,832 in 2021. This indicates the fine balance we face and the reliance we have on the Hall income. Conclusion 

The priority for 2023 continues to be maintaining the effective work of the parish, providing adequate support to enable the ministry team to focus on developing the mission, evangelical, outreach and pastoral work of the church in Wanstead. The current economic situation means that there are more calls on the parish for assistance, at a time when our income may also be constrained, but we must work to increase our regular planned giving through the Parish Giving Scheme and explore ways to diversify our income to enable us to continue to maintain the effective work of the parish. 

## Responsibilities of the Trustees 

Charity law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of its financial activities for that period. In preparing those financial statements the Trustees are required to 

Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently. 

Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable & prudent. 

State whether the policies adopted are in accordance with the SORP, Statement of Recommended Practice, and with applicable accounting standards, subject to any material depariures disclosed and explained in the financial statements. 

Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to assume that the charity will continue. 

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy ai any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the charities act 1993. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud or other irregularities. 

## Signed on behalf of fhe Charity Trustees 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
= UaAHES FATERSON<br>Lay vice CHAIR<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


30 



## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

| report to the PCC on my examination of the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2022 which are set out on the following pages. 

## Responsibilities and basis of report 

As the charity’s trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’). 

| report in respect of my examination of the charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination | have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act. 

## Independent examiner's statement 

Since the charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Act. | confirm that i am qualified to undertake the examination because | am a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants , which is one of the listed bodies. 

| have completed my examination. | confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect: 

1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or 

2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or 

3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. 

| have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

Lorraine Catherine Purdy FCCA Clay Ratnage Strevens & Hills Suite D, The Business Centre Faringdon Avenue Romford Essex RM3 8EN 

## Lon (COMwo Prd 

## Date:: 

> : ve 4 wv AyAl WLS 

31 



## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE 

## ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD 

## REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Unrestricted|Restricted|Endowment|
|Funds|Funds|Funds|Total 2022|Tota!|2021|
|£|£|£|£|£|
|incoming resources|Notes|
|lacoming|resources from generated|funds|
|Voluntary income|129,867|pA|||-|132,220|296,776|
|Activities|for generating funds|62,757|31,250|-|94,007|36,429|
|investment income|2,641|45,243|2,356|$0,240|39,549|
|Incoming|resources from|charitable|activities|16,891|620|-|17,511|11,935|
|Other incoming|resources|:|-|.|-|35|
|Total income|1|212,156|79,466|2,356|293,978|384,724|
|Resources|used|
|Cost of generating funds|
|Cost of generating voluntary income|287|144|-|431|325|
|Fundraising trading cost of goods sold and other|35,575|-|-|35,575|16,176|
|Investment management|costs|=|i|=|-|i|
|Charitable|activities|193,302|55,083|-|248,385|251,536|
|Governance costs|2,520|-|-|2,520|2,010|
|Other resources|used|G|=|I|*|.|
|Total expenditure|2|231,684|55,227|=|286,911|270,047|
|Net income / {expenditure)|resources before transfer|(19,528)|24,239|2,356|7,067|114,677|
|Transfers|
|Gross transfers between funds|- in|-|3,825|-|3,825|45,136|
|Net income / (expenditure)|resources before other|as|
|gains/{losses)|(23,353)|28,064|2,356|7,067|114,677|
|Other recognised gains|/|losses|
|(Losses}/Gains on|investment assets|(3,304)|(30,574)|(11,062)|{44,940}|64,736|
|GS McmeTvRNR|A Tunes|(26,657)|__ (2,510)|(8,706)|(37,873)|179,413|
|Reconciliation offunds|
|Total funds brought forward from 2021|782,839|1,884,316|109,502|2,776,657|2,597,244|
|Total funds carried forward|756,182|1,881,806|100,796|2,738,784|2,776,657|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2022 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
2022 2021<br>FIXED ASSETS<br>Tangible assets 5 1,050,550 1,055,248<br>Investment property 6 1,000,000 1,000,000<br>2,050,550 2,055,248<br>CURRENT ASSETS<br>Debtors 7 2,744 4,361<br>Investments 396,256 441,196<br>Cash at bank and in hand 342,972 339,110<br>741,972 784,667<br>LIABILITIES<br>Creditors: amounts falling due<br>within one year 8 53,738 63,258<br>NET CURRENT ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 688,234 721,409<br>TOTAL NET ASSETS LESS LIABILITIES 2,738,784 2,776,657<br>REPRESENTED BY<br>Unrestricted funds 29,232 49,832<br>Designated funds 726,950 733,007<br>Restricted funds 1,881,806 1,884,316<br>Endowment funds 100,796 109,502<br>TOTAL FUNDS 2,738,784 2,776,657<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>



**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Approved by the PCC on: Abt Apid 20223<br>Name; =<br>Tames Paterson<br>FRRSH TREASURER<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
|||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|1.|Details of incoming|resources|
|Unrestricted|Designated|Restricted|Endowment|Total|Total|
|Funds|Funds|Funds|Funds|2022|2021|
|£|£|£|£|£|£|
|Voluntary|Income|
|Giving|90,322|-|-|-|90,322|88,289|
|Income tax recoverable|20,805|25|6|-|20,836|21,023|
|Donations,|appeals etc.|8,040|-|2,347|-|10,387|18,700|
|Legacies|-|-|-|-|-|65,034|
|Other income|8,925|1,750|-|-|10,675|103,730|
|128,092|1,775|2,353|-|132,220|296,776|
|Activities for generating funds|
|Events|507|-|4,396|-|4,903|725|
|Friends membership|-|-|581|-|581|626|
|Friends fundraising|:|-|26,273|-|26,273|8,631|
|Hall|lettings|62,250|-|-|-|62,250|26,447|
|62,757|-|31,250|-|94,007|36,428|
|Investment|income|
|interest & dividends|1,058|783|993|2,356|5,190|4,622|
|Rental|income|800|-|44,250|-|45,050|34,927|
|1,858|783|45,243|2,356|50,240|39,549|
|incoming|resources from|
|charitable|activities|
|Fees for weddings & funerals|5,735|-|600|-|6,335|3,538|
|Charitable other income|11,156|-|20|-|11,176|8,432|
|16,891|-|620|-|17,511|11,970|
|Total|incoming resources|209,598|2,558|79,466|2,356|293,978|384,724|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

|2<br>Detailsof resourcesused||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||Unrestricted|Designated|Restricted|Total|Total|
||Funds|Funds|Funds|2022|2021|
||£|£|£|£|£|
|Costofgeneratingfunds/fundraising||||||
|tradingcosts||||||
|Church hallcosts|35,294|-|-|35,294|16,176|
|Cost ofgeneratingvoluntaryincome<br>Costoffundraisingevents|287<br>281|-|144<br>-|431<br>281|325<br>-|
||35,862|-|144|36,006|16,501|
|Charitableexpenditure||||||
|Giving|300|-|-|300|12,429|
|Parish share|114,792|-|-|114,792|102,906|
|Ministryteam expenses|4,694|-|-|4,694|2,767|
|Wages|22,991|390|-|23,381|19,849|
|Choirandmusic|746|84|1,200|2,030|984|
|Parish training&mission|870|-|179|1,049|-|
|Education&young people|7,182|-|-|7,182|13,545|
|Upkeepofservices<br>insurance|2,937<br>8,250|-<br>-|7,007<br>-|9,944<br>8,250|342<br>7,157|
|Organexpenses|749|-|-|749|4,106|
|Residential property expenses|3,597|-|12,581|16,178|12,431|
|Worksand maintenance|7,362|-|15,030|22,392|14,743|
|Light, heat& utilities|7,731|-|-|7,731|3,296|
|Officeexpenses|4,572|-|-|4,572|4,812|
|Friendscostoffundraising|-|-|19,086|19,086|4,370|
|Flowers etc.|554|139|-|693|40|
|Sundryexpenses|664|-|-|664|768|
|Depreciation|-|4,698|-|4,698|3,368|
|Project costs|-|-|-|-|43,623|
||187,991|5,311|55,083|248,385|251,536|
|Governance costs||||||
|Accountancyand legalcosts|2,520|-|-|2,520|2,010|
||2,520|-|-|2,520|2,010|
|Totalresourcesexpended|226,373<br>5,311<br>55,227<br>ee<br>—————————<br>eee|||286,911|270,047<br>——=>>>==>_>—>_=|





# THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD 

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 2127753 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

## 3 Accounting policies 

## a Basis of preparation 

The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS102. The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ “true and fair view” provisions, together with FRS102 (2019) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2019 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP(FRS202)). 

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets, which are shown at fair value as agreed by the PCC and investments which are stated at market value. 

## b Funds 

## Unrestricted funds 

These represent the remaining income funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC, including amounts designated by the PCC for fixed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and which are therefore not included in its ‘free reserves’ as disclosed in the trustees’ report. 

## Designated funds 

These are funds that are for specific purposes but not restricted by document or deed to that purpose alone. 

## Restricted funds 

These are income funds that must be spent on restricted purposes and details of the funds held and restrictions provided are shown in the notes to the accounts. 

## Endowment funds 

These are restricted funds that must be retained as trust capital either permanently or subject to a discretionary power to spend capital as income, and where the use of any income or other benefit derived from the capital may be restricted or unrestricted. 

## c Incoming resources 

- Income from planned giving/donations and other voluntary income is recognised when it is received. 

- Gift Aid and other tax claims are included in the Statement of Financial Activities on an accruals basis in relation to the date the donation it relates to was received. 

- ~ Legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of it's legal entitlement and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. 

- - Rental income from the letting of PCC property is recognised when rents are due. 

- The charity receives government grants in respect of the Job Retention Scheme. Income from government and other grants are recognised at fair value when the charity has entitlement after any performance conditions have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred. 



## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE 

## ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

## 3 Accounting policies (continued) 

## c Incoming resources (continued) 

- Investment income from interest on deposits and dividends earned are accounted for when receivable. 

- Investment gains and losses includes any gain or loss on the sale of investments and any gain or loss from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year. 

## d Resources used 

- Costs are recognised when incurred and as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation and settlement of the liability is probable and quantifiable. 

- Include costs of the preparation and examination of statutory accounts and costs of any legal advice to trustees on governance or constitutional matters. 

- Grants payable are recognised in the accounts when a commitment has been made externally and there are no pre-conditions still to meet for the entitlement to the grant which remain within the control of the PCC. 

## e Fixed Assets 

- In so far as consecrated and benefice property of any kind is excluded from the statutory definition of “charity” by Section 10{2) (a) and {c) of the Charities Act 2011 such assets are not capitalised in the financial statements. 

- Tangible fixed assets for use by the PCC 

These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and cost at least £1,000. They are valued at cost or else, for gifts- in-kind, at a reasonable estimate of their open market value on receipt. 

Property used by the PCC in the course of their work is included in the accounts at cost. 

Depreciation is calculated to write off the capitalised cost of fixed assets less their currently anticipated residual fair value over their estimated useful lives as follows: 

* Curates House Nil 

- ° Furniture & Fixtures 10 / 20 years 

e Computers Equipment 5 years 

e Alarm system 10 years 

## - Fixed asset investment property 

These are included at best estimate of market value as determined by the PCC. 

## f investments 

These are stated at market value at the balance sheet date with any gains or losses on revaluation or disposals throughout the year being recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities. 

## g Debtors and creditors; bank and cash 

Debtors are stated at the amount owed to the PCC or prepaid. Creditors are initially recognised at settlement amount after any trade discounts, where normal credit terms apply, or amount advanced to the PCC. Subsequently creditors that are current liabilities are measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid. The liquid funds of bank balances and deposit account balances are shown at realisable values. 



THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD 

## REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

## 4 = Staff costs 

During the year the PCC employed an Organist, Clerical Assistant and a Hall Manager. A further Clerical Assistant carried out work for the PCC on a volunteer basis. Employment costs are included in the respective costs heads. 

During the year, £6,933 was paid to the trustee Lauren Johnson, appointed on 15 May 2022, in relation to services provided in her role as Hall Manager. 

It is PCC policy to offer to reimburse members of the PCC and others involved in the administration of the PCC affairs for expenditure properly incurred in carrying out their duties. With the exception of the details provided above, no member of the PCC was in receipt of any payment for work undertaken on behalf of the PCC, although certain travelling and administration costs were reimbursed where requested, 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|2022|2021|
|£|£|
|Gross Salary|26,322|25,512|
|Employers pension|contribution|1,489|919|
|27,811|26,431|
|Number of employees|in the year|4|3|
|5|Fixed Assets|Furniture|Computer|
|Property|&|Fixtures|Equipment|Total|
|£|£|£|£|
|Gross|book value at 1 January 2022|1,012,959|59,516|1,334|1,073,809|
|Additions|-|-|-|.|
|Disposals|-|-|-|-|
|Revaluations|-|-|-|-|
|Gross book value at 31 December 2022|1,012,959|59,516|1,334|1,073,809|
|Depreciation|at|1 January 2022|-|17,227|1,334|18,561|
|Charge|for the year|-|4,698|-|4,698|
|Depreciation|at 31|December 2022|-|21,925|1,334|23,259|
|Net book value at 31 December 2022|1,012,959|37,591|-|1,050,550|
|Net book value at 31 December 2021|21,012,959|42,289|-|1,055,248|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Investment|
|6|Investments|Property|Total|
|£|£|
|Gross book value|at|1 January 2022|1,000,000|1,000,000|
|Additions|2|-|
|Disposals|-|-|
|Revaluations|-|-|
|Gross book value|at 31 December 2022|1,000,000|1,000,000|
|Net book value at 31 December 2022|1,000,000|1,060,000|
|Net book value at 31 December 2021|1,000,000|1,000,000|
|7|Debtors|2022|2021|
|£|£|
|Amounts|falling due|within one year|
|Accrued|income|1,166|1,167|
|Gift|aid tax claim|1,578|2,105|
|Prepayments|-|1,089|
|Total debtors falling due within one year|2,744|4,361|
|8|Creditors|2022|2021|
|£|£|
|Amounts falling due|within|one year|
|Accruals and|deferred|income|25,590|35,714|
|Funds|received due to be paid|(note|10)|28,148|27,544|
|Total|creditors falling due within|one year|53,738|63,258|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## 9 Related party transactions 

The only related party transactions in the year relate to the payment of wages to a Trustee in their role as Hall Manager, details are provided in note 4. No related party transactions were incurred in 2021. 

10 For information only: Money received and passed on to External Organisations 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|2022|2021|
|£|£|
|Balance brought forward from|last year|27,544|19,204|
|Amounts|Received|-|received for External|Organisations|7,907|22,854|
|Amounts Received|- passed to|External|Organisations|(7,303)|{14,514}|
|Balance|still to be paid|28,148|27,544|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




# THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD 

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

## 11 Church Workers Pension Fund 

The PCC participates in the Pension Builder Scheme section of CWPF for lay staff. The Scheme is administered by the Church of England Pensions Board, which holds the assets of the schemes separately from those of the Employer and the other participating employers. 

The Church Workers Pension Fund has a section known as the Defined Benefits Scheme, a deferred annuity section known as Pension Builder Classic and a cash balance section known as Pension Builder 2014. 

## Pension Builder Scheme 

The Pension Builder Scheme of the Church Workers Pension Fund is made up of two sections, Pension Builder Classic and Pension Builder 2014, both of which are classed as defined benefit schemes. 

Pension Builder 2014 is a cash balance scheme that provides a lump sum which members use to provide benefits at retirement. Pension contributions are recorded in an account for each member. Discretionary bonuses may be added before retirement, depending on investment returns and other factors. The account, plus any bonuses declared is payable, unreduced, from age 65. 

There is no sub-division of assets between employers in each section of the Pension Builder Scheme. 

The scheme is considered to be a multi-employer scheme as described in Section 28 of FRS 102. This is because it is not possible to attribute the Pension Builder Scheme’s assets and liabilities to specific employers and means that contributions are accounted for as if the Scheme were a defined contribution scheme. The pensions costs charged to the SoFA in the year are the contributions payable (2022: £1,489, 2021: £919). 

A valuation of the Pension Builder Scheme is carried out once every three years. The most recent was carried out as at 31 December 2019. The next valuation is due as at 31 December 2022. 

For the Pension Builder Classic section, the valuation revealed a deficit of £4.8m on the ongoing assumptions used. At the most recent annual review, the Board chose to grant a discretionary bonus of 10.1% following improvements in the funding position over 2022. There is no requirement for deficit payments at the current time 

For the Pension Builder 2014 section, the valuation revealed a surplus of £5.5m on the ongoing assumptions used. There is no requirement for deficit payments at the current time. 

The legal structure of the scheme is such that if another employer fails, the PCC could become responsible for paying a share of that employer's pension liabilities. 



## THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
|||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|2022|2021|
|£|£|
|Cash flows from|operating|activities|
|Net|income for the|reporting|period|(as|per the statement of financial|(37,873)|179,413|
|activities)|
|Adjustments for|
|Depreciation|charges|4,698|3,368|
|Loss/(Gains)|on investments|44,940|(64,736)|
|Gains on|revaluation|-|-|
|Dividends,|interest and|rents|received|(50,240)|(39,549)|
|Decrease|in|debtors|1,617|4,403|
|(Decrease)/Increase|in creditors|(9,520)|4,135|
|Net cash|provided|by / (used|in)|operating activities|(46,378)|84,034|
|Cash flows from|investing|activities|
|Dividends,|interest and|rents|received|50,240|39,549|
|Purchase of property,|plant and equipment|-|(31,926)|
|Acquisition|of investments|-|(217,296)|
|Net cash provided by / (used|in)|investing|activities|50,240|(209,673)|
|Change in|cash and cash equivalents|in the|reporting period|3,862|(125,639)|
|Cash and cash|equivalents|at the beginning of the|reporting period|339,110|464,749|
|Cash and cash|equivalents at the end of the reporting|period|342,972|339,110|
|Represented|by:|
|Cash at bank and in hand|342,972|339,110|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST MARY WITH CHRIST CHURCH, WANSTEAD REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1127753 

## FUND MOVEMENT SUMMARY YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022 

|||Resources|Resources|Investment|Transfers||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||01.01.2022|incoming Outgoing||Gain/(Loss)|In/(Qut)|31.12.2022|
||£|£|£|£|£|£|
|Unrestricted Funds|||||||
|General|49,832|209,598|226,373||(3,825)|29,232|
|Designated Funds|||||||
|Flowers|1,412|25|139|-|-|1,298|
|Hall Maintenance|1,797|-|-|-|-|1,797|
|StMaryOpendays|1,433|-||-|-|1,433|
|ArthurWarwood Music|29,317|-|474|-|-|28,843|
|Propertyfund|669,277|1,750|4,698|-|:|666,329|
|Roof2013|3,688|-|-|-|-|3,688|
|Bridge|312|-|-|-|-|312|
|Signpost|835|-|-|-|-|835|
|Property Maintenance|25,336|783||(3,304)|-|22,815|
|Outings|(400)|-|-|-|-|(400)|
||733,007|2,558|5,311|(3,304)|-|726,950|
|Restricted Funds|||||||
|Appealsand collections|1,137|1,462|255|“||2,344|
|Choirand music|2,660|-|-|-|-|2,660|
|Friends|82,987|27,109|33,060|(4,456)||72,580|
|Homeless and support|-|1,626|-|-|-|1,626|
|Memorialgarden|2,528|14|-|-|-|2,542|
|Ministrycandidates|199|3|-|-|-|202|
|JazzVespers|2,339||1,379|-|-|960|
|StMary'sgarden|937|170|-|.|.|1,107|
|ChristChurchJupp bequest.|385,820|8,550|9,687|-|3,825|388,508|
|Wanstead Winter nightshelter|7,363|-|-|:|-|7,363|
|SMWR||3,681|-|"|"|3,681|
|Communitychoir|2,617|-|-|-|-|2,617|
|Distress relief|18,563|551|-|(2,831)|-|16,283|
|St Mary's Brown bequest|589,025|18,960|7,658|-|-|600,327|
|JohnSunleybequest|788,141|17,340|3,188|(23,287)|-|779,006|
||1,884,316|79,466|55,227|(30,574)|3,825|1,881,806|
|EndowmentFunds|||||||
|BishopsJAdamsMemorial|5,319|-|-|-|.|5,319|
|EileenJoliffebequest|81,528|2,188|-|(9,555)|-|74,161|
|STMMemGdnand Corp Begs|12,861|168|-|(1,507)|-|11,522|
|TaylorMemorial 1992|9,794|-|-|-|-|9,794|
||109,502|2,356|-|(11,062)|-|100,796|