Annual Reports for the year ended 31[st] March 2025 and Financial Statements for the year ended 31[st] December 2024 of the Parochial Church Council.
Incumbent: Revd Tasha Anderson
Bank: HSBC
Independent Examiner: Hope Jones, Chartered Accountants
Church Office Church Hall, Greenbanks Close, Milford on Sea SO41 0SQ
Mrs Rebecca Webb Miss Elizabeth Whatmore
Milford PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure and is a registered charity. It has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish of Milford (which includes Everton, Keyhaven and Lymore) the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has legal responsibility for both churches and both church halls.
Membership Members of both Milford PCC and St Mary’s DCC are either ex-officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) or the Annual District Meeting (ADM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During 2024/25 the following have served:
Milford Parochial Church Council (PCC) PCC Secretary: Mrs Beverley Smith Members of the PCC: Incumbent: Revd Natasha Anderson Curate: Revd Sam Dinsmore (from Sept 2024) Vice Chair: Mr Eddie Donaldson Licensed Lay: Mr Douglas Marcuse Minister: Churchwardens: Mr Eddie Donaldson Mrs Val Hanson Deputy Warden: Mrs Annabel Taylor Treasurer: Mr Bill Darley Deanery Synod: Mrs Rosemary Marcuse Mrs Margaret Renouf Mrs Annabel Taylor Elected Members: Mr Bill Darley Mrs Sue Dighe Mrs Myra Kirby Mr Dave Kirby Mrs Rosemary Marcuse Mr John Miller Mrs Vera Peters Mr Simon Pinnell Mrs Beverley Smith Mrs Annabel Taylor
St Mary’s District Church Council (DCC) was set up for that part of the Parish of Milford in which the daughter church of St Mary’s Everton is situated in accordance with a scheme approved by the Diocesan Pastoral Committee and brought into effect on 19[th] March 1976.
Members of the DCC:
Incumbent: Rev Natasha Anderson Curate: Rev Sam Dinsmore (from Sept 2024) Vice Chair: Mr Eddie Donaldson (as Vice Chair of PCC) Deputy Mrs Myra Kirby Churchwardens: Mrs Vera Peters Treasurer: Mr David Kirby DCC Secretary: Mrs Katie Durrant Elected Members: Mrs Linda Bettle Mrs Renee Edwards (until July 2024) Mrs Patricia Ellis Mrs Debbie Hogg Mrs Margaret Renouf Mrs Carol Rook
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| Section | A: Statutory Reports: | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Church Attendance……………………………………………………….……………… | 4 |
| 2. | Vicar’s Report ………………………………………………………………………………. | 4 |
| 3. | Electoral Roll Officer…………….……………………………….……………………… | 4 |
| 4. | Safeguarding Officer…………………….………………………….……….………….. | 4 |
| 5. | PCC ………………………………………………………………………………………………. | 5 |
| 6. | Churchwardens…………..………………………………………………………………… | 6 |
| 7. | Buildings and Fabric…………………..………………………………..……………….. | 6 |
| 8. | St Mary’s………………………………………………………………………………………. | 7 |
| 9. | Treasurer ……………………………………………………………….…………………….. | 8 |
| Section B: Families and Mothers’ Union: | ||
| 10. | Families and School (All Saints’ and St Mary’s)………………………………. | 10 |
| 11. | Youth and Alpha……………………………………………………………………………… | 11 |
| 12. | Mother’s Union………………………………………………………………………………. | 12 |
| Section C: Our Worshipping Life Together: | ||
| 13. | Bell Ringing and Tower Report ……………………………………………………… | 13 |
| 14. | Flower Guild…………………………………………………………………………………… | 13 |
| 15. | Eco Church…………………………………………………………………………………….. | 13 |
| 16. | Home Groups ………………………………………………………………………………. | 13 |
| 17. | Prayer and Pastoral Support Team ……………………………………………… | 14 |
| 18. | Music in Worship and Festival Choir …………………………………………… | 15 |
| Section D: Community and the Wider World: | ||
| 19. | Parish Website……………………………………………………………………………….. | 16 |
| 20. | Tech Team………………………………………………………………………………………. | 16 |
| 21. | Christians Together…………………………………………………………………………. | 16 |
| 22. | MenMeet………………………………………………………………………………………… | 17 |
| 23. | Mission Support ……………………………………………………………………………. | 18 |
| 24. | Pop In Cafe ……………………………………………………………………………………… | 18 |
| 25. | New Forest Basics Bank…………………………………………………………………… | 19 |
| 26. | Parish Magazine………………………………………………………………………………… | 19 |
| Section E: Deanery Synod Report: | ||
| 27. | Ministry and Mission……………………………………………………………………… | 20 |
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1. CHURCH ATTENDANCE
All Saints’ Church Attendance:
Average Sunday attendance: 9am - 52; 10.30am - 80 and 5 children; 6pm Prayer and Praise once a month - 23
St Mary’s Church Attendance:
The average attendance at 10am is 37 plus 1 under 16.
2. VICAR’S REPORT
Each year I look back and am humbled by what God has done among us. The reports within this booklet tell some of that story. As you read them, I hope they inspire and encourage you as we give thanks for another year of the ‘favour of the Lord’. He continues to build HIS church here and what a joy it is to join that exciting, overwhelming, unexpected, abundantly more, wonderful journey with Him.
Tom Wright speaks of looking back to see what God has done and looking forward to see what He will do. As we look back, we have the joy of seeing God’s faithfulness to us and as we look forward, we are called to respond in gratitude with faithfulness to Him.
It’s an individual responsibility for each one of us to play our part. Our Gift Days have been a part of that and we are so thankful for all everyone has given, in prayer, practically and financially. The deep commitment and faithfulness from so many throughout this past year is what makes us church. St Mary’s and All Saints’ are the Saints that sit next to us in the pew; serve coffee; mow the grass in our churchyard; join the tech, maintenance or children’s teams; hand out the hymn books; join the PCC; help with the finances; clean the church buildings, and much, much more. I am unable to mention every part each person plays to enable us to be church, but I give thanks for each and every one of you.
‘I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvellous things you have done’ (Psalm 9:1) Tasha
3. Electoral Roll Officers Report
The preparation of a new Electoral Roll took place between 5th February 2024 and March 19th 2025. At the APCM last year there were 267 names on the Electoral roll. (During the year 4 more were added and 10 removed, 9 of whom died) . All names were removed on 4th February because every 6th year a new roll must be prepared. By the 19th March the Electoral Roll stands at 201.
Olivia Doull–Electoral Roll Officer
4. Safeguarding Report 2025
Over the last few months safeguarding in the Church of England has come to the fore in a major way and the national church has been shaken again by tragic and upsetting revelations. The outcome of this is yet to be worked out, so like all other parishes we await the recommendations.
In the meantime however, we continue to focus on safeguarding at a local level in the parish and implementing policy from the national church, in conjunction with Winchester Diocese.
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In practical terms this involves equipping volunteers with safeguarding knowledge to carry out their roles. As the parish now has around 100 volunteers there is understandably a lot to do.
Last July the parish hosted a training event in the church which was led by the diocesan safeguarding advisor and the training manager and this was well-received by those attending.
Through the work of safeguarding the church aims to be a ‘safe place’ for all, focusing particularly on children and vulnerable adults.
I would invite anyone who has a safeguarding concern to contact myself, Rev Tasha Anderson or the Wardens and key contact details are listed below. There is also literature available at the back of the church or via myself giving details of what a safeguarding concern could be.
Non-emergency parish safeguarding helpline ( checked once a day ): 0751 4471 545 Safeguarding email address: safe@allsaintsmilford.org.uk Diocesan Safeguarding Manager: 01962 737317 Out-of-hours: 0300 555 1373 (Hampshire County Council hub)
Annabelle Short Parish Safeguarding Officer
5. PCC Report
Val Hanson, Eddie Donaldson and Annabel Taylor were re-elected as Churchwardens and Assistant Churchwarden and six new PCC members were elected at the Annual Meeting. Together with our Curate, Sam Dinsmore and existing members, Deanery Synod representatives and the St Mary’s wardens, the PCC totalled 16 people. Our meetings always start with a time of prayer and sometimes a worship song.
Our first Away Day in May gave the opportunity for the new PCC members to get to know others when we meet off-site and have the opportunity to share, discuss and pray together. Discussions included the PCC and the Church, the Growing Younger Vision and the Talking Jesus Report. Subsequently a Talking Jesus course was run for the congregation during March and April. Coffee breaks and lunch are valued times for conversing.
Our second Away Day was held in November when we thought about reaching out to the 97%, and Building for the Future – a sustainable church. On that occasion, we took the opportunity after lunch to have a walk with again much chatting time!
The PCC meets bi-monthly with the Standing Committee (comprising the Vicar, wardens, treasurer and secretary) also meeting bi-monthly when the agenda for the PCC is set. Since the Buildings and Fabric team, the Office and Finance team and Ministry team are now in place, the need for the PCC to be as involved in the daily running of the church has lessened. Proposals from the teams need to be approved by the PCC as well as expenditure. All minutes of the teams’ meetings and St Mary’s DCC and Deanery Synod are circulated to the PCC so that we are fully informed.
The refurbishment of Carrington Lane was completed and is now let commercially on short term lets until it may be required by All Saints’ for an Associate Minister. Meanwhile the rental income is much appreciated.
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After much prayer and several advertisements for an Associate Minister we were delighted to offer the post to Tim. However after only a few months in post, he resigned for personal reasons. Once again we will be seeking God’s way forward in the future. One thing we have learnt over the past two years is to be patient, wait upon the Lord and be grounded in prayer.
Since January we have been able to run Youth Alpha and Alpha courses led by our Curate, Sam.
Safeguarding and how we handle any issues is an agenda item at each meeting.
Beverley Smith – PCC Secretary
6. Churchwardens’ Report 2025
This year has been another year of continued growth in overall numbers at the 9am and 10.30am services along with engagement in many of the church activities throughout the week. We welcome all those who are engaging with us, some well-established in their faith, others exploring. Sadly the past year has also seen the loss of dear faithful longstanding members of our congregation who will be much missed.
One of the privileges of our role as Wardens is to see the large number of those who give of their time and talents to the mission of the church, as indicated by the range of reports contained in this document. We are so grateful to all those who contribute in so many different areas of activity, some seen, some not seen but all of which are greatly valued.
It is a great encouragement to see the church facilities being utilised by many of the groups in the village community, along with the development of teams (eg maintenance and mowing teams) integrating those we see for Sunday worship together with the wider village population. This along with the involvement of the congregation in many of the societies and village initiatives brings a sense of sharing in community.
We are so grateful for all that God is doing here, building and growing our church at All Saints’ and St. Mary’s. We especially thank Tasha, for her leadership, many gifts, commitment, openness to the Holy Spirit, inspiration and encouragement
Val Hanson Eddie Donaldson Annabel Taylor
7. Buildings and Fabric Report 2025
Over the past year much work has gone on to maintain and improve our church buildings and grounds, and we continue to be hugely grateful to all the volunteers who assist with this. Particular thanks are due to the Tuesday Maintenance Team, who cover many regular checks and maintenance jobs as well as ad hoc tasks; the volunteers who maintain equipment and mow large sections of the churchyard; and the small Tech Team who look after the audio/visual equipment. Without all their help many things would add to the church’s expenditure, be delayed or left undone. During the year, thanks to the Eco team’s efforts, All Saints’ Church was awarded the A Rocha Eco Church silver award.
Work has continued on making progress towards the replacement of the defective render on the outside of the church tower and associated works. Ryan Bunce was formally appointed to write the specification for the work and put it out to tender, and a Faculty Application was prepared and submitted. At the time of writing, we are hopeful we will soon receive the Faculty (permission), and then fund-raising, and grant
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applications can commence in earnest.
Inside the church a TMRO (Temporary Minor Reordering Licence) was granted, for 24 months, to remove two pews at the back of the North Aisle which allowed the relocation of the Children’s area to this space and more room to spread out during coffee.
In the Bell Tower a mis-aligned clock hammer was denting one of the bells so the chiming mechanism had to be switched off for several months until this could be repaired.
In April a burst pipe in the hall kitchen caused a flood in the kitchen, hall lobby and main hall before it was discovered. It was some time before the building was dried out enough for repairs and redecoration to be carried out, fortunately covered by our insurers.
To make sure everything was up to date Fire Risk Assessments were commissioned and carried out in the hall and the church. We have been working through their recommendations getting any necessary work done. An energy audit was also carried out in the hall resulting in advice regarding improvements that could be made to make the building more energy efficient. Something to consider for the future.
A dead Sycamore tree in the churchyard near the Lychgate was removed in the Spring. Our paid contractor continued to mow large areas of the grounds in 2024, but has now retired, and the hunt is on to find a replacement for 2025. Our wonderful team of volunteers will continue to mow their own patches but there are not enough of them to do the rest.
Val Hanson
8. St Mary’s Review 2025
Our last AGM marked the end of an era as Gillian retired – Easter 2024. The Easter Day service was extremely special as Gillian had dispensation to conduct the Communion service, incredibly moving for those of us who have known, worked and worshipped with her for so long. A new era has dawned as we tread in her footsteps.
No one person could fill Gillian’s shoes but it is wonderful how God works. Others have stepped forward to take on responsibilities and people who previously felt they couldn’t or didn’t know how to now find they can and they do. As a result St. Mary’s has continued to flourish and although this year has been a learning curve for many we have confidence that we are continuing to build on the foundations that were firmly in place.
There has been much to thank God for and although some things have come to an end there is opportunity for others to grow. Breakfast church was introduced as an intergenerational form of worship, hoping to attract new families to an informal introduction to the Christian faith. We do thank Rebecca for her commitment to this but sadly, as can happen, it has not taken root as hoped and we have to recognise that Rebecca’s gifts may be better used in other ways.
Also ending is Family Tea as our children grow older and take other directions. I was always taught that when God closes a door He opens a window somewhere. We just need time now to discover where this window is and where it might lead.
Our whole Church Nativity was a highlight, everyone felt involved and it was remarked that it was a very special and moving start to Christmas time.
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Village carols was another highlight, attracting well over 100 people many of whom may not normally come to church.
Cafe church continues to be well received, following a series on Hymns We love. The traditional hymns much loved by St Mary’s and the informal setting has encouraged us all to openly discuss and contribute as different aspects of faith are explored together.
We look ahead to the challenges now before us with enthusiasm as we strive to keep St Mary’s the open , welcoming and caring church it has always been. A successful wine challenge at the beginning of this year marked the first of a number of informal events we anticipate holding , as well as some new ways of worship so that St Mary’s and all it represents remains a focal point within our village.
Myra Kirby and Vera Peters
9. Treasurer’s Report
I am delighted to present my report on the Parish’s financial year to 31 December 2024. We continue to be wonderfully blessed by God in this Parish and by you, our faithful congregations, from whom almost 80% of our churches’ income comes. Without this we simply could not deliver our mission to our community. By God’s grace, our finances are currently in a strong position even though we have a substantial repair project to do on the Tower which is explained in Val’s Buildings report. Judged by our financials, ours is certainly a story of growth. This is a summary of our financials over the last 6 years:
| INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR | INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR | ALL SAINTS' AND ST MARY'S | ALL SAINTS' AND ST MARY'S | ALL SAINTS' AND ST MARY'S | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £'OOOs | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023* | 2024 |
| Parish Income | 266 | 204 | 274 | 301 | 350 | 371 |
| Parish Expenditure | 290 | 218 | 221 | 248 | 341 | 319 |
| Surplus/(Deficit) | (24) | (14) | 53 | 53 | 9 | 52 |
- 2023 excludes transactions relating to Carrington Lane refurbishment but includes the £62,000 All Saints' LED lighting project.
As I mentioned in last year’s report, following the successful formation in 2022 and 2023 of teams for “Ministry”, “Buildings and Fabric” and “Office and Finance”, we set 2024 budgets for the whole of All Saints’ at the end of 2023. The PCC formally delegated those budgets to the Teams responsible for spending, thus simultaneously being more intentional in our spending and passing responsibility down from the PCC to free it up to be more visionary and strategic. During 2024 the PCC received periodic reports on the progress of the teams against their budgets. This has helped inform the budget setting process for 2025 and also resulted in a more effective set of financial controls to facilitate delegation. As you will see from the Parish’s Accounts for 2024, our total funds have risen from £256,000 at the end of 2023 to £308,000 at the end of 2024. Restricted reserves have fallen by £11,000 as explained in detail in Note 10 and Unrestricted Funds have risen by £63,000 due to the operational surplus for the year for the 2 churches. The only large non-recurring cost we incurred this year was £5,000 to replace the projector in All Saints’ which had failed and was not immediately repairable. We are, as always, immensely grateful to those who make restricted donations to enable specific projects.
In November we decided it was prudent to “designate” what we then understood to be 50% of the Tower Project costs to separate them from free Unrestricted Reserves. So £80,000 was transferred to “Designated Reserves” as explained in Note 9 to recognise part of the liability we have to repair the Tower. Following receipt of tenders for the work on the Tower and associated work, we now understand the works are likely to cost around £250,000. So, the PCC will consider increasing the Designated Funds in
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2025 to £125,000, but this decision has not yet been made. Remaining funding will be sought from grantgiving bodies and from our village community.
Excluding grants, our donations and collections income was the same in 2024 as it was in 2023 at £280,000. From Note 2(b) you will see that our income from hall hire is significantly up on both halls, materially improving the net contribution from our halls to our mission work, for which we thank Olivia. Also, following the refurbishment of 43 Carrington Lane in 2023, the house was rented out for the whole year bringing in nearly £18,000, significantly more than before the refurb. Fees for weddings and funerals were also slightly up.
Aside from non-recurring capital work, our continuing operational cost base changed little between 2023 and 2024, apart from our decision to meet in full the Diocese’s request for Common Mission Fund of £116,000. The PCC is delighted to again be in a position where we can make a full contribution as we used to in the past. In 2025 we have again committed to pay the CMF in full, a rise to £131,000, which will cover our 2 stipendiary clergy and leave a little over for other parishes.
Thank you for your response to our Giving Day at the beginning of February ’25 which has again been immensely encouraging. £50,000 per annum of pledges have been renewed through to 2027, standing orders are being increased by nearly £9,000 per annum and one-off donations of £12,000 have been promised or received. All of which excludes Gift Aid. With Gift Aid, these amount to promises for over £180,000 over the 3 years to 2027, which really reflects how grateful we all are to God for what He is doing in our lives and our community.
I would be very happy to talk to anyone who felt moved to add a legacy to their Will as this historically significant source of income for the church has dried up over recent years, despite the fact that it is now a more tax-effective form of giving than any other.
I would like to put on record my thanks to Dave Kirby, our excellent treasurer at St Mary’s for his immaculate record-keeping that has made the year-end process so straightforward for me and our Independent Examiner. I would also like to thank the Office and Finance Team of Tasha, Val Hanson, Elizabeth Whatmore, Olivia Doull, Dave Kirby and Eddie Donaldson without whose support and wisdom my job would be much harder.
And finally, a big thank you to all of you who continue to faithfully give of your treasure and your prayers to support our churches. May we all seek joyfully to continue to do God’s will here.
Bill Darley - Treasurer
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SECTION B: Families and Mothers’ Union
10. Families and School (All Saints’ Church and St Mary’s Church)
As fulltime Families and Schools Leader I have oversight of all our parish work with families, children and young people in Milford and Everton, including in Milford on Sea Primary School. We are blessed with a variety of volunteers, without which we would be unable to provide all that we do, so we thank them all for all that they so generously give in supporting this ministry.
Tea, Toast and Toys (Milford and Everton)
Over the last year there has been an increase in the number of families connecting with Tea, Toast and Toys in Everton and a decrease in those connecting in Milford. In both villages the average number of families attending is currently around ten, though there are more siblings (as well as a couple of childminders each bringing 2/3 children) attending in Everton. Regular families attending in Milford number nine (two parents and two grandparents from the parish) with 17 in Everton (six living in the parish). The range of imaginative, physical and sensory play, plus craft, Bible stories, prayer and singing, and the provision of toast with toppings and fruit, proper coffee, tea and squash is well received. With the increase in funded childcare places from an earlier age we are seeking to encourage more bumps and babies to come along, and have enlisted the help of the local social prescribers to help with advertising. We would love to grow our teams, especially welcoming more volunteers from the Everton community, and those willing to take more of a lead role.
All Saints’ Messy Church
During March 2024-2025 Messy Church took place six times (including Messy Easter and Messy Christingle). We have enjoyed exploring Old and New Testament stories from Exodus, Peter and Luke. Although the number of families attending has decreased, we have found a benefit in being able to build closer relationships with families. A temporary move from the third Thursday to the first Wednesday of the month has impacted some regular families, though others are now able to take part. Our team of volunteers continues to grow, and grow younger, as adults from the wider church and non-church community have begun to get involved. Team members' confidence is also growing as some take greater responsibility for planning and prepping their own activities.
St Mary’s Family Tea
Family Tea continued through 2024 under the leadership of Myra and Debbie. As the children of the families attending continue to grow older and their attendance more sporadic the decision was made to end Family Tea following St Mary’s Nativity at the beginning of December.
smAll Saints
This Sunday morning provision for primary aged children was introduced in September 2024 and takes place in All Saints’ Choir Vestry during the 10.30am service on alternate Sundays. A team of two provide a Bible story and activities/discussion linked to the Sunday reading. At present numbers continue to remain low.
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Milford on Sea Primary School
Links with the school have continued to strengthen during 2024-2025. Opportunities to develop school/church links include being a weekly presence in school delivering singing worship (from September 2024) and Y3/4 Chatting Faith lunchtime story club in school (Spring Term 2025); as well as training and leading the pupil Worship Leaders, supporting with aspects of the RE curriculum and serving as a Foundation Governor.
In addition to delivering a whole school Christmas Carol Service in All Saints’ for staff and pupils we have also welcomed pupils, staff and parents to All Saints’ for a variety of services and workshops (Easter Experience, Count on Nature, ‘God is Holy’).
Rebecca Webb
Families and Schools Worker
11. Youth and Alpha
Youth
We are so excited about the last year that we have had with Youth in All Saints. At either end of the summer, we began to meet for catch ups at Melleford and gather as Youth to see how we could up our discipleship for our young people. Out of that, we started a Youth Alpha course in the Autumn term. Through this, we explored our faith, experiences of church, what God means for the rest of our lives and how to find patterns of prayer and reading the Bible. It was amazing to see our young people engage with this course and some of the friendships building over our time together.
In the spring term, we began meeting for breakfast at 9am before the 10.30 service. To be honest, from my experience of being a teenager, I was uncertain they would make it in so early but they have, and it has been a joy to have this space to hang out with them to share bacon and life with each other. The plan going forward is to use this time to explore the Bible together, home group style, but for our first few breakfasts we planned the Youth led service together. We were blown away by how they took that service and the gentle but confident way they led us as a church, and we’re eager to look for more opportunities for them to be involved.
We’d love you to keep praying for our young people as they live out the Gospel here, in their schools and homes.
Sam Dinsmore – Curate
Alpha
This year we have launched two Alpha courses and we’re already planning the third! Alpha is a series of sessions focused on making space for people curious about God to explore faith, ask deep questions and learn about what we believe. In the Autumn term, we hosted a Youth Alpha on Sunday afternoons where we saw 7 young people get together and discuss faith over pizza and cake. Following that, we launched a regular Alpha course on Sunday evenings for the whole church to invite people from outside to explore together.
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It has been so encouraging to see the level of engagement right from the first week as our groups have got stuck into the content, asking questions and really wrestling with what it means to believe in God.
Putting on Alpha has required a committed and passionate team who have been such a blessing to everyone who has come. They have worked late nights and caught up with participants in the week and really worked to make this possible. It is their heart for seeing God move in the lives of their tables that has enabled the whole thing to work. We have also been held in prayer by the most fantastic team and are aware that God is working through this course.
Sam Dinsmore - Curate
12. Mothers’ Union 2025
We have had a rich variety of monthly meetings on Wednesday afternoons in the Church Hall, ranging from a talk on Restorative Justice to a demonstration of Resuscitation Skills.
We have joined with the Brockenhurst and Hythe branches for our Lady Day Service, our Carol Service and our annual Communion Service (when three new members joined).
Members keep in contact with those who are unable to come to meetings and we regularly welcome eighteen people to the meetings in the hall. Cards are sent on the anniversary of those who have been married or baptised here.
Members have generously given to the work of Mothers’ Union around the world, supporting work to improve family life through access to literacy, medical resources and action against domestic abuse. Locally we support the work of the Women’s Refuge and with family contact centres.
Our thanks to Tasha and friends who support us. We continue as a committee-led branch and extend a warm welcome to all.
Val Butterworth
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SECTION C: Our Worshipping Life Together
13. Bell Ringing and Tower Report 2025
At All Saints’ Milford we endeavour to get all bells ringing on Sundays, having 10 ringers and 2 learners in the band. At most Monday evening practices we have visiting ringers from the surrounding area, this helps to improve our range of skills. Once a month, on the last Wednesday, we attempt a Quarter Peal, which is 45 minutes of continuous ringing. Again, this helps with the skills of ringing.
Every 3 months, we have a joint practise with Christchurch Priory. Additionally, some ringers from Hordle, Brockenhurst and Lymington join us. There have been a few other visiting ringers from other parts of the country.
The clock hammers are now fully functional, having been repaired. It is good to have the Church clock chiming again. Other maintenance has included new ropes on the 7[th] and Tenor bells. The Treble and 2[nd] ropes will need to be changed later in the year.
Last year there were 6 weddings where the bells were requested to be rung.
I would like to thank all the ringers for their continued support and commitment to the ringing. Also, thanks go to Tasha and the Church community for their support, it is most appreciated.
Margaret Morton – Tower Captain
14. Flower Guild 2025
Our dwindling team are manfully keeping a flower presence in the church.
We are trying to be echo friendly by reusing oasis and having artificial flowers when homegrown flowers are not available.
The team thank the congregation for their support throughout the year.
Andrea and Jackie - the Flower Guild
15. Eco Church 2025
Having received a Silver Award towards the end of 2023, we are now working towards Gold. Colin Fry has worked hard to highlight those areas where we face particular challenges. As far as our buildings are concerned, the new church lighting has significantly reduced our energy consumption. Our large churchyard attracts an interesting variety of wildlife, and we seek to make our wildflower meadow and other areas as nature-friendly as possible. The involvement of Milford School has also been most encouraging. In June, we marked Climate Sunday with special services, and the talks by Martin and Margot Hodson were challenging and extremely well informed. Our Eco Church committee normally meets three times a year to review our progress and make future plans. We are very pleased to have Clive and Rachel Foster as members with their horticultural expertise and enthusiasm.
Douglas Marcuse
16. Home Groups
I am delighted to say that Homegroup membership is still very much at the heart of our 2 churches with 12 groups meeting across our villages with members of all ages and stages not just from our 2 churches but
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from others in the parish. We meet in each other’s homes and some join in virtually. Groups meet fortnightly either during the day or evenings for Bible study and to pray for each other, the community and world issues. We support and care for one another, sharing our struggles and encouraging each other on our Christian journey. We also make time for fun and regularly share meals and social time.
The Homegroup leaders meet twice a year with Tasha to review studies, to share encouragement and agree the study material. Since the last APCM groups have studied together 3 series which followed the Sunday sermon teaching, Character of God April – June 2024, Life Together Bonhoeffer – Mid June – July 2024, then 1 Peter September - October 2024.
Some groups individually choose a theme or book of the Bible, and many followed different studies during Advent and Lent. Some take it in turns to lead using prepared studies which helps everyone to grow in knowledge and confidence. Since January 2025 we have been looking at the book of Luke together on Sundays and in our groups.
We still need more Homegroup leaders and hosts. We have a list of people waiting to join and would like to be able to encourage all church members to be part of a small group. It is where we grow in our faith through studying the Bible together and also applying the teaching in our walk with God, putting our faith into action.
https://www.allsaintsmilford.org.uk/contact-us
Kate Pinnell
7. Prayer and Pastoral Support Teams
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
As a church we would hope to provide comfort to those in need and facing challenging times. Maybe this would be in the form of encouragement, a listening ear, signposting to other services and especially prayer. I am privileged to lead the combined Pastoral and Prayer team.
Pastoral Team
There have been a number of changes to the team over the past year. Our current members are Gillian Peard, Rebecca Webb, John Miller and myself Annabel Taylor along with Tasha our vicar and Sam our curate. We meet every 2 months. We are a small team and the pastoral needs of our church are considerable. Our church family does a wonderful job of caring for one another, in particular the Home Group network.
Prayer Team
There are 8 of us on the prayer chain. In confidence we pray for those who have made requests. We love getting feedback and the overwhelming response is the sense of comfort knowing that a situation or person is covered in prayer.
Other prayer activities in addition to services are Parish prayers and prayer walks.
Annabel Taylor
14
18. Music in Worship Report
All Saints Worship Band
Our worship band continues to thrive and grow. We have Tony and Helen leading us on a regular basis and we also welcomed Andy and Barbara who bring guitar, mandolin, keyboards and vocals. You will also have seen Jeremy up front in the last twelve months, and he brings violin and vocals.
So, we now have variety in the band each week while also giving our musicians and singers time in the congregation too.
Last year we introduced Jesus and Music (or JaM night): that's a contemporary worship centred evening service. We hope to make this a regular feature with a chance to introduce new songs in an informal setting. Watch this space, give it a try...
As usual we presented Beach services in August, braving wind and tide, and we partnered with an Open Choir for carols in the carpark. We've assembled a portable sound system with the AV team that makes these outdoor events possible and successful.
Thanks for all your support in the past year. As always, if you have musical skills you would like to contribute, come and talk to us.
Pete Hanson
The Festival Choir 2025
In 2024 the members of the Festival Choir were joined by extra volunteers from Choralia Milford at the Reflective Service on Good Friday, thus making us a very community- based choir. By Christmas, choir numbers had increased from 12 to 16 for the Carol Service as we led the
congregational carols and sang three further carols for choir only. Three choir members sang ‘Mary did you know’. With other singers from All Saints’, we sang at Carols in the Car Park where we were joined by children from the Primary School. Carol singing at St George’s, we began in the Lounge with a short service and then sang carols around the first floor for those residents unable to join everyone downstairs. During the past year, some choir members have sung at weddings and funerals. We will be singing at the Reflective Service on Good Friday again this year.
Valerie Kidd
15
SECTION D – The Community and the Wider World
19. Parish Website Report
The site is accessed at either of the two addresses: allsaintsmilford.org.uk or stmaryseverton.org.uk . It acts as a portal to life at both Churches, advice on Life Events, easy connection to All Saints’ YouTube channel for streamed services, a live list of Events and Sunday Services across both Churches, and current copies of the Parish Magazine.
Olivia Doull – Operations Manager
20. AV Tech Team
The year since April 2024 has been a productive year for the tech team, with technical support for virtually every service in church and in the community, including weddings, funerals, school services, even theatrical productions. The streaming of the second Sunday morning service to YouTube has allowed many beyond the church building to participate every Sunday, with an average of 12+ each week during service time and 50-80 views over the following days.
A number of technical improvements to the system have been made, including a new and better central projector, necessitated by the failure of the original, and improved sound quality by a re-arrangement of the main speakers and better use of the sound mixing software. We are currently working to provide more flexible monitor arrangements for service leaders as well as to improve the quality of sound and vision for all those participating in worship in church, at home and in our open-air services.
All of this is dependent, of course, on the quality of teamwork at all levels by our regular team of 11 members, of which Jeremy Bennett (sound) and John Richards (visuals) have recently joined us. We are grateful for additional help by Derek Battersby, as duty verger at funerals and weddings, and John Miller assisting Val Hanson at 9am Sunday services. In addition, Olivia Doull has now joined the small team of three preparing the screen schedule each week. We would very much welcome newcomers of any age to join the team. Training and supervision are always available. A third team member at the 10.30 service would ease the pressure on the stream production as would regular assistance at the 9am service.
Colin Fry
21. Christians Together in Milford
Christians Together is a gathering of representatives of all the churches in the village – Church of England, Roman Catholics, Methodists and Baptists. We meet monthly and together host a number of events. Our representatives are Ruth Bufton, Joyce Rhoden and Annabel Taylor.
Good Friday on the Green is a service lead by all the churches. Sadly due to poor weather it had to be held in All Saints Church in 2024. The church was however full and as per usual we finished off with Hot Cross Buns donated by the Co-op.
Songs of Praise is an outdoor service held at Keyhaven. Thanks to Elizabeth Whatmore who is the organiser and the Salvation Army from Boscombe, whose band do a wonderful job. United Day of Prayer
World Day of Prayer
16
Mission Aviation Fellowship presence on the Green (with a plane) Journey of the Magi was performed at All Saints Church at the end of November to kick off the Christmas season. This was a production from the Springs Dance Company. We were delighted to have a packed church and on the following day the dance company led a workshop at the school. Carols on the Green was delivered together with Magical Milford and incorporated turning on the Christmas lights. This service delivered the Christmas message to the community and involved the school. It attracts about 2000 to Milford on Sea Green and we were able to hand out over 1000 gingerbread biscuits with the John 3:16 verse attached.
We are busy discussing this years events. In addition there will be a Newcomers’ Tea and hopefully an opportunity to be involved with the summer music festival.
Annabel Taylor
22. MenMeet
Much about the three regular MenMeet activities and its three key objectives continues as reported last year.
In the main, attendance at the monthly evenings at The Beach House has been encouraging, especially when the speaker and topic attract a number of ‘irregulars’, as in February -
a well-known football celebrity on that occasion, when a powerful and challenging message held rapt attention.
A key element of MM from its inception fifteen years ago has been that our events should not be held in – or associated with – any particular church or churches, although that has twice not been possible for MenMeet Plus recently – normally home-based.
MenMeet Plus also keeps with its format of following a brief talk by an ‘interflow’ of discussion. Our key objective remains that of exploring contemporary issues from a distinctively Christian standpoint, such as ‘The consequences of how Britain is progressively discarding the Christian Consensus which has underpinned society and the family for generations’
Out of doors activities were not as well attended last summer.
Quarterly breakfasts, now usually Continental and held in the Baptist Church Hall – with a speaker - and occasionally with a Full English option at The Beach House, attract between a dozen and twenty men
Although, unfortunately, all the present team are from the same church, this does not seem to be unduly evident, but it would be better if one or more of the other local churches were to be represented. Among others, Peter Rawson and Mike Warren, whose vision led to the launch of MenMeet in 2009, are much missed.
Clearly, what MenMeet offers appeals to ‘church guys’ and church non-attenders (including not-yetChristians) alike, so attractive publicity and personal ‘advertising’ are essential, seeking to attract an influx of older and ‘not-yet-as-elderly’ (?) men.
Dudley Andrews
17
23. Mission Support Team
Mission Report for May 2024- March 2025
The Mission Team was able to donate, from £20,000 of our Mission budget ( a tenth of All Saints’ committed income) to the following of our Mission partners:
£2,900 to The Bible Society, The Leprosy Mission, Hope Now (Ukraine), Word for Life Trust (NE India) and NCF (Uganda) in 2 instalments June & December.
Plus one off gifts of £2,000 to Christian Aid in Gaza in 2 instalments,
£500 to XLP (Youth work in Inner London) , to Honeypot ( Young Carers), to Christians against Poverty and to The Salvation Army (Boscombe)
£250 to New Forest Basics Bank and to Lyndhurst Deanery Synod.
Plus £32 per month and £60 in extra gifts to Compassion (Rwanda)
In June 2024 a Missions Sunday took place in All Saints’ with multimedia presentations from the Mission Team Representatives about the work of our 6 Missions including prayer stations around the church.
This month I have retired from the leadership of the Team. It has been a privilege to serve God in this way. Elizabeth Whatmore, Jill Neill and Rosemary Marcuse, together with John Miller, now the Leader, remain on the Team. I thank them all for their support and former Treasurer, Alan Chapple, and now Bill Darley, whose guidance was invaluable.
Libby Gillespie- Smith
24. Pop in Café
‘Pop In’ coffee has been very popular this last year. Our numbers of customers average about 12 and many more if we do something special like Easter and the Harvest service (thank you Gillian). Pop In and the library being open at the same time works very well. The dedicated team of coffee makers are amazing. We have had a few extra volunteers of late which has greatly helped to keep ‘Pop In’ running smoothly.
We have made a profit with the donations this year which resulted in donations to Naomi House and The Honeypot which are both local charities. We were also able to donate towards the production of the Journey of the Magi which the Churches Together organised at Christmas.
We have also paid our rent. This was delayed somewhat as the Village Hall needs urgent work on the roof and walls which was due to take place in about June last year. However, it is now delayed until the end of May this year.
Ruth Bufton
18
25. Basics Bank Report 2024-2025
A huge, sincere thank you to all who continue to give regularly, both in non-perishable goods and money donations. Demand however is still high, but non-perishable goods collected from All Saints has reduced. The New Forest Basics Bank (NFBB), from the outside is a relatively simple organisation but keeping the organisation running requires 100% commitment by volunteers – from maintaining the delivery van to monitoring stock levels and incoming supplies. Volunteers have included young people working towards their Duke of Edinburgh award.
Approximately £1,000 is spent every day open, mainly at Aldi, Morrisons and Tesco. Faire Share larders are going from strength to strength, sometimes helping 131 households in a week and 103 from NFBB. Fare Share larders are now at local hubs in New Milton, Pennington and Ashley, once a week. A very small contribution is requested in return for fresh produce which is considered a positive response to maintain peoples’ self worth.
There are many reasons why people may find themselves needing the support of a Food Bank. The main earner may lose their job, a medical condition, rising cost of living. All parcels are a stop gap to support clients through these difficult times. Referrals are made by Citizens Advice, Christians Against Poverty, Social and Health workers, Doctors’ surgeries and other organisations.
The response at Harvest Thanksgiving for non perishable goods was encouraging. During 2024 a total amount of £834.11 has been donated from All Saints’ which sadly is considerably less than in the previous year. If anyone has further ideas of how we can promote our giving or volunteering then please speak to Terry Bufton or myself.
Sue Forward
26. Magazine Report
The Magazine Editors offer our sincere thanks to our many contributors, magazine distributors, valued advertisers and all who buy the magazine, whether by subscription or individually. We continue to receive wonderful positive feedback on content and appearance, particularly the cover images. In 2024, we held the price at £1.50 (subscriptions £15) and, after a brief reduction in print run to 250 copies, reverted to the previous level of 275 to ensure there were no shortages. Subscriptions and sales as at the end of February 2025 indicate that we will need to reduce the print run to approximately 230-250 copies.
Mark and his staff at Village News have continued to oversee the collection of magazines by the distributors each month. The magazine is still available online with an additional front page encouraging the readers to make an online donation. The Editors have renewed their membership of The Association for Church Editors, and continue to make good use of the Parish Pump website for resources.
We are so grateful to Bill Darley for taking on the invoicing of advertisers, and to Bill, Liz Hines and Olivia Doull for helping with contactless subscription renewals in December. However, the two editors are otherwise responsible for all areas – we produce the magazine each month, co-ordinate advertising with the Treasurer, manage the collection of subscriptions at renewal time and throughout the year, and coordinate the magazine distribution team. In summer 2024, we placed appeals for help in the magazines and the weekly news-sheet over several weeks, to no avail. We will continue through 2025 to offer our wonderful magazine but our team needs to expand to ensure its on-going viability in its present form.
Valerie Kidd and Jackie Parker (Editors)
19
SECTION E
27. Deanery Synod Report
The Deanery Synod representatives are: from St Marys - Margaret Renouf, and from All Saints’ - Annabel Taylor and Rosemary Marcuse.
There are 3 meetings throughout the year with the purpose of sharing diocesan news and focussing on topics common to all parishes.
At the spring meeting the focus was on Eco Church with a presentation by the diocesan Environment Minister. There was encouragement for small parishes to apply for audit grants which could help defray the cost of projects such as pew heating and the parish buying scheme for office supplies.
The summer meeting was hosted by our parish and the volunteers who offered hospitality were thanked for their welcome. The presentation on Stewardship emphasised that Christian giving includes giving of time and talents as well as financial gifts. The following discussion concerned different ways that parishes can use Gift Days to raise the profile of stewardship.
The autumn meeting gave Archdeacon Jean the opportunity to speak of the many challenges Bishop Philip and his diocesan team face as they work within the current restrictive financial and strategic planning to meet the needs of aging congregations. Following the “Growing Faith” initiative, the presentation about Bubble Church gave an example of a successful model for engaging young children and families to feel welcome. There was a reminder that 74% of parents of children under five have contact with church through children’s activities.
The summer mission focus was the Church Tent at the New Forest Show. This had engaged 70 volunteers and provided one of the most popular settings for the public to visit. As always it offered a welcome with tea and cold drinks, while for children there was the ever-popular face painting.
The links with Rwanda had strengthened through a visit by members of Dibden Purlieu Church. Following a fire in the refugee camp in Kigemi £4000 had been donated from churches throughout the diocese to fund destroyed businesses, along with musical instruments distributed by 3 young people who were part of the trip.
Rosemary Marcuse
20
A C C 31ST DZCE14BER 2024 HOPE J014ES SUXTE 114. LYMINQTON TOWN HALL LYMINQTON HAMPSHIRE
Znde endent Examxner's Re ort to the Parochial Chuteh Council ¢£ MAlf¢td on Sea We report on the accounts of the Parochial Churth Covne&l fot the year ended 31$t D•cwthb•t 2024. whxeh are set out on pages 2 to 10. Res ectiv• r•s nsthilities 0£ the Trn$t•o$ of the PCC and Exanuner A$ the Tru¥teeJ of the Parochial Chuteh Council you are r85ponsxble for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the reqUirentS of the Charities Act 2011 Ithg 2011 Act). You consider that an audle Is not requred for this year undet section 144 121 of the 2011 Aet and that an Independent Exarninatlon Is toquit•d. A8 IndepeThdont Examxner it is out responslbAlty to: Examxne the accounts und&r s•etion 145 of the 2011 Act. TO follow the proce(lures lud down in the General Direetxons given by the Charity CcfflsSIOnerS {undor s•etion L45{51 Ibl of the 2011 and To state whether parti1#r Jpatters have come to our att•ntAon. Basis of Indè dent Examknez's Re ort Our exarnination was catri•d out In accordance with the General Directions given by the Chatity CollussIOn. kn exarnination Inelud•s a revl¢w of thè accounting records kept by the Parochial church Cowicil and a ecotparison of the accounts presented with those records It also includes consderation of any unusual ite018 or 5clOsUre8 in the accounts and seeking •xplanatxons frorn you as trust•89 eoncerning any such matters. The proceduzes undertaken dts not provxde all the •vidence that would be reqr0d xn an aut. and consequently no opini¢rt given as to whether the a¢counts present a true and f#xr view and the teport Ix•Jxt•d to those Tratter8 8•t out in the ¥tatetsnt belov. Inde ndent ExaTroner' 8 Statewent In ttonnectiort wxth ouz eXaMaton attention: no matt•t has come to our (11 vhich gxves us reasonable eaus¢ to b•lx•ve that in any rnaterlal t•$pert the reqrDentS a) to keep accI)tIng records In accordatsee wlth $•etxon 130 Of the 2011 Act, b) to prepare accounts which aceotd Ivith the acco)unting zecords and cornply with th• accountg requlremettts of th• 2011 Act have not been D; ot {21 to which. in our opinion attent&oJ should be drawn in order to enable a proper wNlerstazKlq of the aecoutyts to be reached. HOPE JOHES li Marcb 2025 Suite 114. Lyrnington T)wn Hall. Avenue Rc*ad, L¥MINGTON, Hants S041 9ZG
31ST DECEMBER 2024 2024 2023 FID ASSETS Note Iyjvestments Deposlt Accounts 269,861 227, 163 Debt¢r8 and prepantS Cash at Bank ALI Saint5 st. Maty's 15.608 11, 918 34.599 7,673 23.055 .413 42,272 27.468 Cash xn Hand Acts2 Fund 200 58.080 39,386 LIABfLITIES: AHOUW5 FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 19.555 10.580 NET CURR ASSETS 38.525 28.806 NET ASSETS £308, 386 £255, 969 Unre5trxcted All Saxnts st. Maty, 162.376 26.204 183. 436 21.792 188,580 205, 228 Designated Tow•t Fund 80.000 268. 580 205,228 R•strxeted io 39.806 50,741 TOTAL FLINDS £308. 386 £255.969 Approved by the Parochial Chiitdl Councxl on Iq March 2025 and sxgned on its behal£ by: Viear Honorary Treasurer
STATDIEwf OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR TBE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024 Unzestricted Restricted Funds Total Fut]ds 2024 2023 INCOHING RESOURCES Income and endowTrJnents from Donations and legaexes Charitable activities other trading activities Investmonts 21a) 21b) 21c) 2{d) 256.888 56. 636 1.592 30. 643 25.247 282.135 56. 636 1.592 30.643 336,905 47,627 1,975 13.062 £345. 759 £25.247 £371.006 £399,569 RESOURCES EXPENDED ntllre on Raxsing funds Chatitable activities Othez costs 31al 31bl 31cl 8.335 272. 172 1,900 8.335 308. 354 1. 900 52.394 337, 507 1,638 36. 182 TOTAL EXPEfiDITtJFE £282.407 £36, L82 £318. 569 £391, 539 NET INCOME/ IEXP£NDlTUREI 63.352 110. 9351 52,417 8.030 Fund balances at 1st January 2024 205.228 50,741 255. 969 247, 939 FUND BALANCES AT 31ST DECFJSBER 2024 £268.580 £39. 806 £308.386 £255,969
NOTES TO THE STATE14ENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEIIBER 2024 ACCOTJNTING POLICIES {al Accountln COnneOrtS The Financial Statewwsts have beers prepared in accerdance with the Church Accounting Re¢rylations 2006 together with accounting standards and the Chazities SORP (FRS102) . applxeable The Financial Statements have been ptepazed uttder historical cost conveAti¢n. Ibl Fixed Assets Consecrated and beneficed property is excluded £rom th• Fin#nexal state¥AentJ by s.10121 lal of the Charxtie8 Act 2011. and no value is placed on Ttsovabla ehuteh £Urttislngs. All expenditure incurred during the year on consectated or benefxeed buildings and movable church Eurnishiogs. whether muntenance or improvorent, 1$ writt•n of f as expendkture the Statewnt of Financial Aeeivities. In addition. equlFnt th• Church is liot depreciated but wzxtten off when the asset is aequited. (cl C arative Fi res Following f roan change the categorl8atlon OE xtieome and experItre £rcffi 43 Carrxnglon Lane and Car Park to incom• £tortL Investments and eXpenture ftorn RaiSg Funds respectively in accordance witb the Chariti•s so {FRS102). the CC¥LFarative figure$ have been re¥tated to accord vith that change categorisation.
HOTES TO THE STATFalKNT OF FIi4ANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024 Unrestrirted Restricted Total Funds 2024 2023 21al Donations and Legacie• Plannèd Gxving: GiEt donations Non Gift Collections Incom• Tax Recovezies Donations ALI Saint8: Pledges Received other St Mary, Other IssIOn Legaeie¥ Gtants- Penshurst Trust Listed Places of Worshxp Grant ScheAe HaPShIZe County Couneil Dioees• New Forest District Councxl 111.461 14.471 12.030 47,943 3.400 111, 861 14.471 12.251 52,793 114,744 15,774 13,295 49.227 221 4. 850 51.000 18.178 16, 000 67,000 18.178 62.000 20,879 606 350 426 956 426 1,893 1,541 500 4S,000 11,102 800 799 400 799 400 150 £256. 888 £25, 247 £282. 135 £336, 905 2 Ibl Charitable Aetlviti•s Fees 11 Saints Hall Hire St. Mary, 8 Hall Hire Lunch Club and Co££&• M•tnxtigs Parish Magazine 12.320 21,721 11,969 2.614 8,012 12.320 21.721 11. 969 2. 614 8.012 11,220 15.599 9, 967 2,590 8,251 £56, 636 £56. 636 £47, 627 2 Icl Qiher Trading Actxvities Fete, Concerts attd Other Fund Raising Ev•nts Sundty lrteome 1,592 1.592 1,753 222 £1.592 £1,592 £1. 975 2 (dl Investments Deposit A¢¢oUlit Interest Rent - 43 Carrlngton Lane and Caz Park 13. 003 17.640 13,003 17, 640 10.573 2.489 £30. 643 £30. 643 £13,062 TOTAL INCOMING BESOURCES £345,759 £25,247 £371.006 £399,569
NlEs TO THE STATEM OF FINANCIAL AcfIvITIES FOR THE YEAR 31ST DECEMBER 2024 3. EXPENDXTUB£ ON Untestrieted Restrirted Fund5 Total Fund¥ 20241 2023 3 la} Raisirtg Furtd¥ Fund Raising Expenses Znvèstlllent bYanaqeTThent Cost8 43 Carrinon Lane Expenses 43 Carrlngton Lane Refurbishllnt 255 255 503 6. 227 1.853 6.227 1.853 1,889 50, 626 8.335 8.335 53, 018 3 Ib} Charitable Actxvities Mission and Charitablè Giving Hinistry Diocesan Par&sh S Vicar, s Expenses Assoclato Minister Accoffmodatlon Worship and Sersrieg Expenses 11or5hxp Hospitallty Organist Salaries. Pensions and Expen8e8 Fam>ly Norker Schools Mxnistry Pastoral Support atsd Other Outreach Traxning Costs Church Running Expenses Energy Insurane• Maintenanee and Repairs Churchyard E¥p•nses Other Running Cost5 Chtsreh Hall Expenses All Saints St. Mary. Lunch Club ¢)peratxtsns Manager Of f ice AdnIStrator Parish Admini¥ttation Parish Magazine Zxpeiises Hospitality C08ts other 14inistry Costs 24.857 318 25,175 25,175 116. 485 2,189 2.099 4.297 856 1.280 116, 485 4,569 2,099 4,297 856 1.280 108, 000 3,772 2,380 3,698 772 315 28.698 3.620 28,698 4,412 1.719 2,756 25,266 1,137 1,127 1,979 792 1.719 2.756 9.969 3.793 4.057 9.266 2.833 9, 969 3,793 4, 057 9,266 2,833 9, 925 3,616 4,121 3,457 1,518 13.977 7. 977 1.438 19.971 11.610 7.366 7.042 1.130 2.062 13.977 7,977 1,438 19. 971 11, 610 7, 866 7, 042 1. 130 2,062 15, 165 7,071 1,183 18.182 11,805 9,892 7,366 517 2.376 500 Non-recurrlng It•mg All Saints Chyrch Hall Zworovewnts Pro jector Imptovernents LxvestreaTh Pro ject Upgrade Web$lte South Window Re£tsrbish]DRnt LED Llghtlng Pro ject 1. 156 5.285 5,910 1.156 5,285 6.576 666 1.781 603 5,035 62,029 £272, 172 £36. 182 £308, 354 £336. 883 3 {cl Oehet Cost5 Govarnance Costs Trustees Liability Insurance Independent Exarnlttation Fees 580 1.320 580 1.320 438 1,200 £1.900 £1. 900 £1, 638 tOTAL EXPENDITURE £282.407 £36, L82 £318. 589 £391. 539
NOTES TO STATEMEwf OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DZCEIIBER 2024 enditure staff Costs The PCC employs a partlle i)perations Manager and a part-tirne Adminxstratxve Assx3tant who run the Parish Office and the Church Ralls, £ull-ttstte Family attd Sehools ader wh heads up our ThiStry for young families. None of the above earned more than £60. 000. Examlnation Fee8 Fees payable fot the Ind0Pd(Int ExamLnat&ott arK)Unt to £1,320 {2023 £1.200) ecxal Collections The Church Aeeoutttittg Rules tÈquire that whgn collortigns arg Trade for rrission societies and other chatltles. and the nature 0£ the collection is that there is no dxscretxon for the Parochial Church Council to do anytlung other tIw1 8end the UK>ney dxrectly to the charxtyN these collections are not funds of the Parochial Church Councll and should not be included XA the P&roeal Church coun1. qross incorne or total expenditure. Th• total amount of such collections excluded fzcffj the accounts under thi¥ reqpJirer*nt a•wAnted to £2. 936 12023: £1. 306) . 6. De osit Accounts 2024 2023 All Saints Central Board 0£ Flnanee st Nary,. Central Board of Fxnatiee 250. 000 210.215 19.861 16. 948 £269.861 1227.163 Debtors and Pt ts 2024 2023 Inc Tax Recoverabl¢ other Debt¢r8 9,266 6. 342 7,888 4,030 £15. 608 £11, 918 8. kn¢unt$ falli du• withxn one 2024 2023 Deferred Inccoe Accrnals other Credltots 5,810 4.595 9.150 4,819 2,134 3, 627 £19.555 £10, 580
IIOTES TO THE STATFIqKIiI OF FINANCIAL ACTIVZTIXS 9. Unre5trxcted Funds The Quinquenn&al R•port of 2021 identl£l•d 819fICaTht problerLS wlth the bell tower's celltatioS Cladng whicb vas added in 1922. Th• cladding has crackèd and is not only allowing water into the stonework. but it is ttot allowxng it out again and thi$ As causing potentxally serious damage to the stonework of this anexent tower. The PCC undorstood that the rort&ficatxon cost of a projoct to correct this was arow)d £165.000 and 80 It was decided in Novembet 2024 to designate around 50% (£80, 0001 of our Unrestricted Funds to a Tower Fvnd. As a result. Unre8ttieted Funds at the beginning 0£ th• year stood at £205,228. there was an operatlonal suzplus for the year of £63. 352 and after transferring the £80. 000 to the Tover Fund, tha undasignated Unrestrlct•d Fuod8 Stand at £188.580 a8 at 31tst December Deeewber 2024. In Decewber 2024. tenders were sought for this rectificatlon v¢rk and for other anclllary work such as repa&rs needed for the east window. The PCC now expÈets tILis whole project to cost itt the region of £250, 000. Conslderation vzll given in 2025 to deszgnating further Eunds £rpw¢ the Unrestiieted Funds to a5SlSt with £llnng thosè eostS. In adtIOn, pteparations are hand to suL¥t grant applieation5 and to seek convthunlty support to fund the Tower r•paArs and ancillary pro jeets. The PCC'8 policy is to maintain 3-6 Months of operational expendltut• unrestricted r•s•rns to allow £or unexpected costs terruptions to antiepated income. 10. Restrieted Funds 1.1.2024 ntr0 31. 12.2024 ALI Saxnts Famlly Minxstry Church Repairs and Ityprovements Lxvestream Pro ject Vieatage Cloaning Choir Ve$try Fund Acts2 Fund Computer EqUxpWt st Mary's 27. 615 17.401 479 2,801 20.296 500 32,318 666 15.593 17,235 479 421 2.550 625 2,380 2.550 625 500 776 500 318 2,445 2. 903 £50. 741 £25. 247 £36, L82 £39, 806 A¥¥ets relatxng to the Restzieted Funds arg as follows: 2024 2023 Invo8ement8 £39. 806 £50.741
IIOTES TO STATEMiNT OF FINANCIAL AcfEvITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEblBER 2024 11. Penshurst Trust The Patish is the b¢ne£iciazy of the Penshurst Trnst whose xnvestments are held by the Diocese of Wxnchester. Subject Èo condxtions laid dow by the Charity cour$$10n•ts th• £uAds may usad for thè purchase of land and builcknnq8 to be 8ettled uptsn trpJst for the use 0£ the Parish. Th• ineomè ar15g from the investments may be used in furtherinq the telxgious and charitable work of the Parish. assets of the Trust as at 31st December 2024 comprised the freehold 0£ 43 GlInglon Lan• and an lnve3tllt in the CCLA Church of Enqland Deposit FuAd. The house provicknng a rgntal xncoTTr8 for any years until 2023 when the PCC decided that tbe house 8hould be rg£urbished and returned to its original puzpose of providlng houslng Eot art Associate tniSter. At present. we have not yet been 8ueee88ful in Proving that rol•, so In th• thoantxwe it has been returned to tenanted rental at a £ull •wrket rent. The romaln&ng balaAe• wxth CBF was valued at £4. 586 at 31st December 2024.
NOTES TO STATEMENT OT FINANCIAL ACIIVITIES FOR THE YEAR Ei4DED 31ST DECFJIBER 2024 12. statnent of Financial Artlvlt&•s fot the ear to 31st December 2023 Unrestrirted Re8er*cted Fund5 Total INCING RESOURCES lrteoth• and endowments ero Donations and legacies Charitable activltles othet trang activities Investment$ 254. 678 47. 627 1. 975 13.062 82.227 336, 905 47,627 1,975 13,062 £317.342 £82.227 £399, 569 BESOURCES EXPENDED Raising £unds Charitable activities other costs 52.934 250, 835 1.638 52,934 336, 967 1,638 86.132 £305, 407 £86.132 £391,539 NET INccl 11,935 (3,905) 8. 030 Fund balances at 1st January 2023 193.293 54.646 247,939 FiTND BALANCES AT 3L5T DECFMBER 2023 £205.228 £50. 741 £255, 969 io
Inde ndgnt Exawnor, s ort to the Parochxal Chuteh Coun¢il of Mxlford ¢>n S•a Wtt tepoEt on the account¥ of th• Parocknal ehurcb Councxl £oz tho year endod 31st D•cartybat 20241 whleh arè tsèt out on pages 2 to 10. Res eCtva t•8 sthilitles oe th• ?mi¥tee8 ¢£ the PCC and Examn•t Aty th• Truotees of the Paro¢hial Cowkcll you ar• tospon8abl• for thg preparatlon of thè aecount¥ aceordan¢e with the zeqDirements of the Charities 2011 Itha 2011 Act). You cons&doz thot an audit not zequired for t8 yaar VAdor 8ection 14412) 0£ the 2011 Act and that an lfjd•pazMlènt Xxamnatl)n Is tequlrgd. As Independor4t Examxner xt 1$ our x•spDn¥lb£lty to: thè aeeotsttts w)der secÈlon 1415 of the 2011 Act: To £ollow tho procedures ld down an GÈnÈral Directlons given by the Clwrty CcNrnissLl3At¥s {undez 58rt£on 145(5) Ib} C£ the 20LI To 8tat• wh•ther particular mate•r4 havè cane to our aet•ntlon. Ba818 of Ind Out •Jtarnination was cazrlad o)Jt In accordanc• w&th the General Di£ection¥ glv•n by the Charxty ConuRiss)n. rev&o of tha aeeounting records kopt by the Paro¢hial CILurch Cowidl and a ¢oThparis¢ 0£ thè aCCOUAt• presented wlth thosè recozds It al#0 Includgs consd•zatXOA of any unu3ual Item# Dr scIOsUreS In the accounts and seeking •xplanation8 £rom you a5 truseeas concètning any such mattet8. The pzocedures w)derÈakèn do fttst provxde all the ÈvldeThce that would bo rwxr•d xn an audit, and consequently no oplnlort LB giveu aa to wh¢thtr the accounts pre3nt • true and faLr vièw and the report lmzt•d to those Tratt•t$ $ee out the stat•m•nt below. In ndont Examner' 8 Statement In connection w&th our examx))atxgn, Thatt•r ha# come to our attention: (11 wbxch glvo8 us reasonable cause to b•lièvÈ that in any matar&al t•8pect tha EqlM@tA a} to ke•p aeeountlng zecor¢ts a¢cozdance with sec¢i¢)n 130 0£ thè 2011 Aet. b) to pr•pare accourts whlch aeeozd th the account&ng tecords and coNgly w&th the aeeounting roquit•m•nts of th• 2011 Act have not bg•n ty•t: oz (21 to whlch, In yJr opinion. 4ttent&on sknuld be drawn In ordor to enable a proper undezstaodkng 0£ th• accounts to be reaoh•d. HOPS JOIIES 21 Harch 2025 Sult• 114, LyrnAtsgLon Town Hall. venu• Road. LYMZNGTQN, Hants S041 9ZG