Annual Report & Financial Statements of the Parochial Church Council of the Parish of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch, Torquay st for the year ending 31 December 2024 Team Rector and Prebendary of Exeter Cathedral: Fr Nick Debney B.A. SSC Parish Church: St Mary the Virgin St Marychurch Fore Street Torquay TQI 4PZ Bank: HSBC Bank 7 Palace Avenue Paignton TQ3 3ED SJP Independent Examiner: Mr lan Barrett FCA FCIE Barrett's Chartered Accountants 22 Union Street i rtL'JrA r, nmniiilp. Newton Abbot TQ12 2JS Registered Charity Number: 1128269
The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch, Torquay, TQI 4PZ Annual Report for 2024 presented at Annual Parochial Church Meeting th Sunday 18 May 2025 in the Church after the Parish Mass Contents Agerbda for Annual Parochial Church Meeting Page 2 Trustees of the Charity Page 3 Administration Page 4-5 Review-'Highlights' of 2024 Page 6-7 The Team Rectorf5 Annual Report for 2024 Page 8 The Churchwarden5 Annual Report for 2024 Page 9 Revised Electoral Roll for 2024 Page 10 Honorary Secretarfs Report for 2024 Page 11 Honorary Treasurerfs Report for 2024 Pa8e 12 Examined Accounts for2024 Page 13-19 General Report5- Deanery Synod Highlights Bell Tower Report FOnard in Faith and the Society of St Wilfrid and St Hilda Page 20-21 Structure, Governance and Management Page 22 The Notes of the 2024 Annual Parochial ChLÉrch Meeting Page 23-24 Puge I
The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch, Torquayi TQI 4PZ Annual Report for 2024 presented at Annual Parochial Church Meeting th Sunday 18 May 2025 in the Church after the Parish Mass Agenda The Meeting of the Parishioners l. Opening Prayer 2. Apologies for absence 3. The notes of the 2024 Annual Parochial Church Meeting 4. The Priest in Charge's Report 5. The Churchwarden's Report 6. The Election of two Church Warden5 The Meeting of those on the Electoral Roll l. Presentation of the Revised Electoral Roll 2. The HonorarysecretsrS Report 3. The Honorary Treasurerfs Report and presentstion of the Independent Examined Accounts for 2024 4. General Reports (taken as read) 4.1. Deanery SynDd Report 4.2. Forward in Faith and the Society of St Wilfrid and St Hilda Elections 5.1. The Parochial Church Councll112 posts} 5.2. Independent Examiner 5.3. Electoral Roll Officer 5.4. Deanery Synod Repre5entatives12 posts) 6. Safeguarding 7. Letter5 of Thanks as the meeting requires 8. Dates of Future Meetings 8.1. New Parochial Church Council Meeting-to be confimied following APCM 8.2. Archdeacon's Visitation- 28, July 2025 at 7pm at St Matthebrf5 Chelston 8.3. Annual Parochial Church Meeting Sunday 17, May 2026 9. Close of meeting by Chair. Poge 2
The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch, Torquay, TQI 4PZ Annual Report and Financial Statement For Year ending 31" December 2023 Trustees of the Chari Parochial Church Council members are automatically Trustees and are either elerted, ex officlo or co-opted. During the year 2023, the following people Seed as Parochial Church Council member5'. Parish Prie5t'. Ass1Stant Curate.. Ordinand: Fr Nick Debney Fr Kenny Wickens Toby Humphreys Chair Ex-officio Ex-officio Ex-officio Church Wardens: Christine Hinchliffe philippe Giorgetti Ex-officio Ex-OfFIcio Until APCM Until APCM L)eanery Synod Rep: Nicola Holl Christine Hinchliffe Ex-officio Ex-officio Until 2026 Until 2026 Secretary= Sorcha Fenlon Ex-officio Until APCM Treasurer: Peter Gaston Ex-officio Until APCM Electoral Roll Officer.. Margaret Roper Ex-officio Until APCM Parish SafeEuardlnE Rep.. Valerie Oswin Co-opted Until APCM Elected Members: Hayden Beazley David Clark Jan Condict Peter Gaston Nicola Hall Janet Morgan Les Northway-Reux Valerie 05Win Alistair Purser Margaret Roper Tui Shirley Jason Watkins Sarah Williams Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Until 2025 Deanery Synod Representatives are elected every three years. upon election they become Ex-officio members of the PCC for the term. Nèxt election in 2026. Standing Commitiee consists of the Parish Priest, Assistant Curate. Church Wardens, PCC Secretary. PCC Treasurer and Parish Safeguarding Representative. Poge 3
Administration The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin. St Marychurch is located in the North of Torquay serving a large and varied parish. The Parish sit5 Within the Mission Community of Our Lady and All the Sainvs which comprises of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch, All Sainys Babbacombe, and st Martin of Tours, Barton. From the 1st July the three churches became a legal benefice served by the North Torquay Team Ministry. Aim and Pur oses St Mary's Parochial Church Council's IPCCI primary aim is the promotion of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrine5 and practices of the Church of England. The Parochial Church Council hos the responsibility of cOperating with the Team Rector, Fr Nick Debney (Team Recor from the l July 20241, in promotinE in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The Parochial Church Council is also specifically responsible for the Church buildin& the church hall and the grounds within the boundary. St Marf5 PCC have passed a resolution under the House of Bishop'5 Declaration on the Ministry of Bishops and Priests in the Church of England. Following their petition, the Bishop of Exeter has requested Sacramental and Pastoral Eplscopal Oversight from the Bishop of Oswestry, the Right Reverend Paul Thomas. Our mission is to be a growin& joy-filled, Christian presence at the heart of our community. We welcome both local residents and visitors of all ages to all of our services and events. By witnessing inside and outside of our church buildings, we endeavor to walk the journey of faith together, fed and nurtured by God's word and sacraments. Worship is our first duty, and we seek to make the worship at St Mary's both reverent and accessible, but above all filled with joy. We are a farnily friendly Eucharistic community that use our buildings to the glory of God as we seek to grow in faith and out-reach to the community we seek to serve. Everyone is very welcome to join us wherever they may be on their journey of faith. Our mission statement is 'Serving the people of North Torquay with joy, Ob"ective and Actions Our 2024 objective in pursuit of our aim and purposes is to offer public worship, a place for private prayer, community events, opportunitie5 to go on pilgrimage and supporting attivities aligned with our aim and purpose. both locally and further afield. We have considered the Charities Commission's guidance on public benefit and believe our actions have many benefits to the public and the people IFving in our parish as we intend to offer the following actions for 2024: Sung Parish Mass on Sunday5 in the parish church. Tea and Coffee are served after Mass in the PrecSnct Centre to encourage fellowship and community. everyone iswelcome. Said Masses take place on Wednesday morning at 10am and Friday morning at loam, as well as a sung School Mass on a Tuesday morning at 9am in the Parish Church. Refreshments are available in the Precintt Centre after Mass on Wednesday and Friday mornings. Additional seNices throughout the year including Lent, Easter, Festivals and Saint Days, Patronal Festival and Christmas. These Services times vary and with details being available in the new5 sheet. Bring and share lunches or 'nibbles' follow selected services to continue the celebration and give opportunity for fellowship. There is not currently a Sunday School running within the Parish. however weekly resources reflecting the readings for the day and the season are provided in a children's area and are well used. Upkeep and maintenance of the Church, Church Hall and grounds. To ensure they are safe and suitable for the purposes they are being used far. The Church Hall is hired out to Ljsers for many sessions of the week and is available for the community to hire for their personal and community events. The hall is used for Church events e.g. Lent Lunches and rÈception5/events throughDUt the year as the Church Hall has a high quality kttchen and toilet facilities. Page 4
Historically the parish have been on Pilgrimage to Glastonbury for the South-We5t Pilgrimage in July each year and have fund a new trèdition in being part of the Diocesan society Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our La(ty of Walsingham in North-East Norfolk. These activities are principally funded by voluntsry donations through the Parish Giving Scheme, Standing Orders, envelopes, collections and the lettings of the hall. These funds are primarily used for the common fund, heating, lighting, insurance, licences, day to day maintenance and repair of church buildings and grounds. Purchase of resources for seyvices le.g. carbdles and printer costs), supporting mission activities le.g. donations to charity and projects). The parish is blessed to have the Comerstone Charity Shop to SUPPOrt the life and witness of the parish. While it is an independent trading company, they make generous grants to the church for fabric and other work. Committees During 2024 the P.C.C. operated with just one fomal committee which met between full meetings: this was the standing Committee, elected by the P.C.C. from its own membership. Standin Committee This is the only committee recognized by law. It has power to transact the business of the P.C.C. between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council. This committee meets when need arises to make recommendations to the full P.C.C. or to proceed wwth any work requiring immediate attention. The Standing Committee is made up of the Priest in Charge, Churchwarden5, Secretary. Treasurer and Parish Safeguarding Representative. Church Attendance There are fifty-nine names on the Church Electoral Roll. The Roll this year has been subject to a full Revision, with a new electoral roll prepared for the annual meeting. The number of names on the Roll - 59- this is a reduction from previous years due to the number of people who have moved away and no longer worship at St Marls or who did not return to church after the Covid Pandemic which have been updated through the full revision thi5 year. There were twenty new additions with a further 12 regular attenders who frdiled to fill in their form - on timel Sunday attendance has now recovered and increased from the pr&pandemic numbers with average Communicants of between 60 and 65. There are usually between 15 and 20 who attend our weekday Masses. A small number of children and non<onfirmed adults attend Sunday services. Safe uardln The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 Iduty to comply with the House of Bishops, guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults). The Parochial Church Council adopted in 2024 an updated Safeguarding Policy, Safer Recruitment Policy and Employment of Offenders Policy, and that it has due regard to the House of Bishop's guidance on the Safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults. Through a rigorous review of our Safeguarding practice using the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard. relevant individuals, a5 well as the Parochial Church Council as a body, are fully appraised of the requirements which go both with the offices they hold and also with their qualifitation to be nominated for such offices. The Parish Safeguarding Officer is automatically co-opted as a member of the Parochial Church Council. Safeguarding is an integral agenda item of every P.C.C. meetin& even if only to report that there are no current Issues and that our policie5 and procedures are current and up to date. All members of the parish comrnunity. whose DBS Certificate5 expired in 2024 have had these certifications renewed. A review is underway regarding Safeguarding Training to ensure and provide evidence that training is in place and where not, to make sure it is in the future. Page5
Review 'Hi hts, of 2024 The Parish continues to be well supported by our retired clergy, Fr Tony Oswin, Fr Antony Lane, Fr Trevor Smyth and Fr John Lee who have supported us throughout the year. Rob Atkin ha5 continued a5 Dur Organist and Director of Music and we have been served faithfully by our choir members. The serving team led by our head server, Jason Watkins, have grown in number and expertise and greatly enhance our worship on Sundays and for our Occasional Offi¢e5. Social events have continued to recover post-lockdown The Autumn Craft Fayre wa5 held once more raising much needed funds for the parish and thanks to Graham Ward and the team for all their hard work. Through our fundraising efforts as well as through the generosity of our planned giving, St Marfs has been able to fulfill all Its financial Commitments in 2024. There have been three opportunities to gather as a Mission CDmmunity our brothers and sisters in Christ at All Saints. Babbacombe and St Martin of Tours, Barton. In Marth 2024 we welcomed Toby Humphrey5 to the benefice as an ordinand in training for ordination at st Mellitus Theological College in Plymouth. It has been a great joy to have Toby with us and he has made a great contribution to the life of all the churches. In May 2024, the current phase of work being undert6aken by Michael Farley Organ Builders was completed on the organ which means that all the organ Iwith the exception of the choir organ) is now working and reliable and the console has finally been completed after 20 years of work. In June 2024 Family Fes1 took place at the River Dart Country Park. Family Fest is a family camping weekend run by Anglo-catholic parishes in the Diocese of Exeter. It was lovely to be able to welcome families. young and old, to Family Fest with 3(X) people enjoying time together in worship and fun. For the first time in many, many years there was a priestly ordination in the life of St Marfs. Our Assistant Curate, Fr Kenny Wicken5 was ordained to the Sacred Priesthood by Bishop Paul Thomas in St Mary's and just a few days later, he celebrated his first Mass at St Martin5, Barton. The church was full, and we celebrated together afterwards. Fr Kenny attended the Centenary Glastonbury Pilgrimage, and it was lovely that a group were able to travel once again from St Marfs to attend the Pilgrimage. Over the course of 2024. we have had another significant number of funerals both at St Marf5 and a much smaller number at Torquay Crematorium which demonstrates how we are reaching back out into our community- There has been another increase both in Baptlsms and Wedding5 at St Marfs this year. Fr Nick Debney has continued as the Chaplain to the Royal British Legion in Torquay and has led services for the D- Day embarkment, the Home Guard service on Corbyn Head, and seTvices on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday. In August we took delivery of four window'cartoons, the original design drawing of four parts of the replacement East Window when the church was rebuilt after the bombing in 1943. There was a great fundraising project and through very generous donation the cartoons were secured and are now on display in church. In September we took delivery of projertion screens in church. These large flal-screen televisions enable the screening of orders of service for School Masses and to be used for other catechetical purposes. The screens were funded by a very Eerberous grant from the Confraterntty of the Blessed Sacrament, and a legacy from the Long 5i5ter5. The screens have greatly enhanced our school worship and flexibility of use. Also, In September we held our first Tower Tours,, where we held a day of outreach into the community. We were expecting maybe 100 people with 50-60 wanting to ascend the 185 steps up the tower. In the end we welcomed over 600 people into church with over 220 going up the tower. In addition to views form the tower, we oanIsed church tours, there was an organ recital, refreshments and bell ringing demonstrations. Poge 6
There was again, a larger than usual gatherlng this year at the St Marychurch War Memorial on the Il, November where our Ordinand, Toby Humphreys preached an incredible homily on sacrifice. The Act of Remembrance was supported by the Royal British Legion. October also saw the redecoration of the church hall to remove the royal blue paintwork and pink walls to a much fresher cream and white. It is hoped in 2025 to market the hall to increase use and revenue. Fr Kenny Wickens has continued a programme of Safeguarding review at St Marfs. It has been a really fruitful piece of work which has given the opportunity to review our Safeguarding policies and Procedures, to adopt the newer policies and make sure our training and Disclosure and Barring checks are up to date and for the parish to fully adopt the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard which we are now working to complete level 2 moving into level 3 in 2025. In July, followlng the retirement of Fr Paul Jones at All Saints Babbacombe and a period of consultation, the North Torquay Team Ministry was fomed. The scheme provides for the Team Rertor (Fr Nick Debneyl and a Team Vicar Ito be appointed in 20251 as well as a curate. The Mission Community name will remain the same (Our Lady and All the Saints, North Torquayl, but it provides a formal relationship between the three parishes and the provision of ministry acr055 the three churches. Leading up to Christmas there were many Carol Services and celebrations from across the community. It was a great joy to welcome so many people back to St Marvs. many of whom had not Vistred since before the lockdown. Our hall bookings have continued to Erow from strength to strength under the watchful eye land lots of workl of Alistair Purser following the retirement of Angela Lee in April. Christmas was celebrated well with the largest attendances for many years at St Marfs this year with good congregations and lots of happyi Smiley faces- Fr Nick wheeled out his snow machine again which brought lots of smiles to the children's faces as we welcome hundreds of shepherds into church wearing their instant shepherd kits given out as part of the Crib service. Our work with schools has continued to grow this year. The weekly School Mass has continued for years 3-6. We had the May Day proces5iori and Crowning of the May Queen and ihe Image of Our Lady in May with a longer procession through the precinct to music culminating in Maypole Dancing in the precintt for the year 6 children. We have welcomed Coombe Pafford School back into Church this Christmas and have had visits from St Margarets School, Homelands, Abbey School as part of the RE Program and syllabus. Resources are provided every wèek for our younger church member5 and a huge thank you is given to Sally Debney who spenLIs many hours each week putting these resources together for our junior church land supporting Fr Nick in so many ways). We Bre so very blessed with our flower team at St Marls led by Jenny Purver. The quality and drama of our displays are exceptional ènd we are so very lucky to have such talent within the parish. A masstve thank you to everyone who is involved in our flower team and for your creatNity and drive. There have a been a steady flow of new people coming along to St Marfs and it is a joy to welcome them and everyone to our Mass on a Sunday morning- how heartening that 20 new people have applied to go on the Electoral Roll this year. St Marfs continues to witness faithfulfy to the Gospel and as a parish we are in good heart indeed. Po9e 7
Team Rectorfs Annual Re ort for 2024 Dear Frlenés, I would like to begin my first report as Team Rettor by saying a massive thank you to you all for your continued care and concern for each other and for me, Salty and Adam. 2024 has been another busy year, it is not until you look through photographs and refer to the annual review on Page 6 that we can begin to See all the things that are happening here at St Mary's. Some things we would like to move at a faster pace, but we are all bound by time and capacity- I would also like to thank our retired clergy ft)r supporting the life of the parish in thi5 last year. We have had a number of significant and one-off events this year with a number of Mission Community events most notably the ordination of Fr Kenny Wickens to the Sacred Priesthood. His Ordination took place here at st Marfs and he celebrated the Mass for the first time at St Martin's a few days later. As usual, Yeam St Marfs, came up trumps and the whole day was wonderhjl. We obseNed our usual celebration of our patrDnal festival and have continued in the St Marfs way of observing the festivals of the wodd-wide church. The Holy Week and the Triduum were celebrated across St Martins and St Marfs forthe first time this year. Ail services were really well attended meaning combined choir, server5, clergy and people made for a more worthy celebration of these most sacred liturgies. Last year I reflected how I felt things were settled acr055 the two churches. Life was changed again in 2024 with the formalion of the new Team Ministry. It ha5 been challenging taking on a third church and congregation and I would like to thank you for your generosity to me and each other in these changes. I would like to publicly thank Fr Kenny who, very quickly after his prlestly ordination, has had to 'fly solo, to celebrate Masses across all three churche5, meaning we are not together on a Sunday in the same way aswe were a year ago. We expettto appoint a Team Vicar and a part-time administrator to complete the team in 2025. I would like to thank the PCC for all their hard work this year and pay tribute to our faithful churchwardens Christine Hinchliffe and Philippe Giorgetti. They undertake many tasks behind the scenes. A51 have mentioned earlier, we have undertaken a significant amount of WDrk around safeguarding and I would like to thank Val 05win who has continue in the role of our Parish Safeguarding Representative. I would also like to give thank5 to Peter Gaston and all involved in finan who have worked 50 hard to bring good financial governance to the parish. Our current position is challenging las it is for so many people personally at this timel and if people can review their gNing to the parish. it would be greatly appreciated. I would like to end by emphasising my tinal paragraph in last yearfs report.. It continues to be an incredibly exciting time in the life of St Marfs, we are be8inning to see more and more things happening in the parish, by God'5 grace, and as we look forward. my prayer is thot we remain faithful, joyful and focussed on growing God's Kingdom in this part of Torquay- for if we are faithful, with God nothing is imp055iblel Fr Nick Debney Team Rector and Prebendary of Exeter Cathedrdl Poge 8
The Churchwarden's Re ort for 2024 The Church of England's quinquennial inspettion provides for the inspection of church buildings every five years by an architett or chartered building suryeyor. The quinquennial report is one of the key documents which assists the parochial Church Council IPCCI in the care and repair of a church buildin& for which it is legally responsible. It gives snapshot of the repair needs of the buildin& and lists the repairs needed according to their priority. Our next five yearly inspection will be undertaken in March 205. and the report will be presented to the new PCC after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 18th May. This all comes at a cost, and we would encourage you all to consider increasing your weekly givin& as without your support there will come a time when we cannot continue with the upkeep of the building. As a parish we have done really-well in undertaking work identified in our last Quinquennial Inspèction including previously reported decoratin8 and work in the Holy Innocents Chapel and South Isle. In 2024 further work on the Church organ was completed. We owe a great debt of thank5 to the Cornerstone Charity Shop for their contlThuing support of the parish and donations to Church Funds. As always, they are looking for volunteers who might be able to give a few hours to support this vital work. We are expecting a focu5 on work to the bell tower in the next report to make sure it remains in good order. The Church Hall has had much needed decoration along with conversion of ceiling lights to LED which has helped to contain the significant increase in our energy costs this year. Hall Booking5 were taken over by Alistair. A big thank you to Angela Lee for all the work she has done over the years. Further projects to be completed, Repair to the tarmac in the car park near to the Blower house. Ongoing management of the damp in the Holy Innocents Chapel. Repair and upgrade to the tDwer lightening conductor which ha5 failed its annual test due to degeneration of metal rods to take the charge- they have been in the ground for many decades. Re-decoration of the office, vestries, corridors and toilets. Remedlal plumbing work in the church hall to manage historic damp and leaks. This Christmas we had a wonderful 25-feet fresh Christmas Tree donated by Haydon and Jen Beazley and their family. In 2024 a new area has been allocated for refreshments and meetings. This is already proving to be very successful and in time we hope will be a great asset to the Church. Over 2024 we have developed a successful and valued welcoming team which has grown in numbers and are supporting the Churchwardells for Sunday Services and wedding5 and funera15. More Volunteers are always welcome. If you have any skills which you feel would help our church community. please let Fr Nick, Phil or myself know. A thank you to all our Volunteers who work so hard to maintain and bolsterthe flourishing life of the Church. Chrls Hinchliffe and Philippe Giorgetti Churchwardens. Poge 9
Revised Electoral Roll 2024 This year a full revision has taken place. Hayden Beazley Ann Berrow Alexandra Blellock Dawn Brown Simone Bygraves David Clark Mirian Clark Jan Condict Fiona Cook Robert Cook Dianne Dann Ken Davies Elaine Davies Sally Debnèy Jennifer Elliot Sorcha Fenlon Cora Grant Peter Gaston Philippe Giorgetti Judwth Giorgetti Amanda Gough Jeremy Gough Margaret Harris Christine Hinchliffe Meg Joliffe Jennie Kay Michael Kay Kathryn Kelly Jane Lane Naomi Lawrence Angela Lee Jacueline Lewis Shannon Lewi5 Florence Mitchelmore Julia Montages Janet Morgan Leslie Northway-Reux Ruth Northway-Reux Val Oswin Alma Pearson Wendy Piddlesden Alistsir Purser Jenny Purver Mike Roper Margaret Roper Margaret Rosser Victoria Segebarth Tui Shirley Clifford Spence Libby Spence Barrington Stevens Jill Steven5 Grahamward Nora Whelan Denise Williams Sarah Williams Leonard Windsor Victoria Windsor Sharon Winter Summa This roll contains 59 names, and include5 the following summary- Additions: Twenty new people have joined St Marfs electoral roll in 2024 Moved away: Two No longerattend: Ten Worship elsewhere: Two Worship elsewhere in team.. Three Deceased.. Five Regular attender but new form not completed: Twelve Pttge 10
Honorary Secretarfs Report for 2024 The PCC met seven times on the following dates in 2024, 1 January, 24 March, 3 June, 24, July, i September, 25 November and an extra-ordinary meeting on the 9 December. January5 Meeting The PCC began a safeguarding controls assurance pro55. Fr Paul Jone5 had announced his retirement leaving at Easter and the PCC discussed the implications of this, the PCC agreed to share the Easter Triduum with St Martin'5, an electronic calendar for the church was created and a new hall committee was due to meet on the 27, January. March Meetlng The PCC agreed to a fundraising project to purchase the window cartoons used by John Hardman and Co. to make the new East window in the 1950's and the success of this years Lent Lunch and Stations of the Cross was shared. June Meetlng There was a safeguarding focus at this meeting and a work plan agreed, following a successful grant application the PCC agreed for the introdurtion of screen into church to assist with the school masses, we began the formal consultation on the proposed North Torquay Team Ministry, we discussed Fr KennS forthcoming ordination and the transfer of candles from wax to oil. The PCC also approved the redecoration of the hall. July Meeting We approved new and updated safeguarding policies and launched the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard. The PCC approved the work to begin the recruitment of a parish administrator, the Bible Course has been running very successfully and a new License to Occupy for the Pre-school was agreed. September rneeting The PCC approved the appointment of a new Hall Cleaner using safer recruitment processes, there was a discussion and review of cash handling processes. the new branding was approved forthe new North Torquay Team Ministry and the UPCDming Tower Tours were discussed. November meeting The safeguarding work has continued looking at Parish and non-parish actwities, we reviewed hall letting cost5 and looked at ways of marketing the hall now it has been redecorated. The PCC received a restricted legacy for the organ and after discussion decided to pause on a decision on the work at this time. December Meetlng Extra-ordinary PCC Meeting to discuss the ooan project in the light of risk around the Listed Places of Worship Grant and the reclaiming of VAT of circa £3,0(X). The PCC discussed a briefing paper produced by Fr Nick and decided to progress with the project to secure 2024 materials price and to be able to reclaim the VAT. Sorcha Fenlon Honorary Secretary to the Parochial Church COU11 Poge 11
Honorary Treasurers Report for 2024 l again would like to start by thanking those without whose help I would not have been able to fulfil this role. I would èspecially thank the Churchwardens Christine Hinchliffe and Phillipe Giorgetti for their tireless work throughout the year and janet Morgan and her helpers for counting the Sunday and other collettions, Valerie Oswln for bringing them to me when I have not been at church a5 well for her lifts to PCC Meetings and Graham Ward for the hard work with the Craft Fair and generally throughout the year. I would also thank Angela Lee for éealing with Hall Bookings for many years and welcome and thank Alistair Purser for tsking this on. The fillancial position alas continues to be challenging. An increasingly vigorous and lively parish life brings with it a concomitant growth in expenditure. We must also live with a massively higher level of utility prices. A deliberately cold church would be a false economy and detrimental to our ministry as well as being inhospitable and unwelcoming. The increased activity and rising attendance are not however reflected in our income, which shows a fall in giving, especially regular planned giving which is the bedrock of our finances. This is due to the loss of a number of very generous donors as they have moved away or been promoted to glory. Although we have received some generous legacies, we cannot rely upon ihe dead to finan our ministry to the living. We received two legacies. one of £30,Cth fvom David Woodman and £IO,OW from Robert Stone. The latter is restricted and being used to fund the penultimate stage of the Organ project. The balance of Miss LOnS legacy wa5 used to partly pay for portable screens to make the church more user-fviendly for school SeiCe5 and other activities. There has been continuing regular work on maintaining the fabric of the Church and Hall and we a very grateful to the Cornerstone shop for their generou5 donations. We thank Comerstone for allowing us to use their donation to meet the balance of the costs of the screens. The Quinquennial Inspection due this year will undoubtedly show where onEoing work is needed on the fabric, and we must also plan for the futu for significant expenditure for example the church boilers- while they are working week currently, they will not last forever. The Hall broke even this year, and with the investment in the repair and improvements to the Hall should make it more attractive and enable the char8es to be raised leading to a significant rise in income. A51 prepare to lay down my abacus and retire from the role of Treasurer, I see a Parish in good heart and growin& but for thi5 continue we do need an increase in regular giving and fundraising in order for us to meet our financial obligations consistentty in the future. Peter Gaston Parochial Church Councll Honornry Treasurer Poge 12
PARISH OF ST MARYCHURCH RECEiwfs AN D PAYIVIENTS ACCOUNT YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2024 2024 2023 GENERAL FUND CHURCH (UNREsfRicfED) RECEIPTS PLANNED GIVING PLATE PARISH GIVING SCHEME CARO MACHINE DONATIONS GIFT AID ENVELOPES GIFT AID TAX REFUND INTEREST AND DIVIDENDS CHURCH HIRE SPECIAL COLLEcfioNS UTILITY CREDIT OPEN DAY CRAFf FAIR GI$ HosprrALITY GRAMr FEES 9,013 6,178 12,102 1,386 1,118 787 10,710 7,126 13,817 2,725 2,198 100 650 598 645 909 I,ooi 200 9,763 iii 6,093 TOTAL 46,880 44,431 PAYMENTS GIV114G DIOCESAN SHARE 258 14,446 14,456 9,316 -1,593 3,561 2,345 2,912 1,133 288 820 14,044 9,623 8,831 -1,510 3,805 2,859 2,346 1,321 loo 8,641 372 42 UTILITIES INSURANCE RECHARGE TO HALL ADMIN CLERGY EXPENSES UPKEEP OF SERVICES ROUMNE MAINTENANCE GIFrs FEES HOSPITALITY TRANSFER TO ORGAN AND MUSIC FUND 9,475 1,539 TOTAL 58,171 51,293 SURPLUSIIDEFICITI -11,291 -6,862 Poge 13
HALL RECEIPTS HIRE FEE5 DONATION FOR NEW LIGHTS/ COOKER ELEcfRICITY REFUND 9,680 ii,iii 400 3,161 TOTAL 9,680 14,672 PAYMENTS UTILITIES CLEANER INSURANCE DEPOSITS REFUNDED ROUTINE MAINTENANCE BaiLER NEW LIGHTSICOOKER 2,337 3,455 1,593 824 1,519 5,323 3,352 1,510 640 2,271 445 TOTAL 9,728 13,541 SURPLUSIIDEFICIT COMBINED SURPLUS {DEFICIT) -11,339 -5,731 LEGACIES FUND MISS LONG LEGACY18ALANCE LFSS CHURCHYARD & TOWER UGHTING PART COST OF SCREENS BALANCE CARRIED FORWARD 2,436 8.084.SO -3,648.73 2,436 2,435.57 WOODMAN LEGACY 29,953 STONE LEGACY TRANSFER TO ORGAN AND MUSIC FUND BALANCE CARRIED FORWARD 10,000 -io,Doo BASIC GENERAL FUND BALANCE 1ST JANUARY CHURCH SURPLUSIDEFICIT HALLSURPLUSIDEFICIT UNPRESENTED CHEQUES WRIThEN 8ACKIADJUSTMENT 15,003 -11,291 48 366 2D,241. -6,862 1,131 491 BALANCE 4,030 15,003 Poge 14
BAREWELL FUND 8ALANCE BROUGHT FORWARD PAYMgNT5 88,634 89,099 ORGAN PROJECT SOVND 5Y5TEM io. -465 BALANCE 78,634 88,634 COMMON FUNDACCOUNT BALANCE BRDUGHT FORVIARD FROM GENERALACCOUNT 13.758 12.925 27,802 14,044 PAYMENT PARISH SHARE 26,683 28,088 BALANCE 13,758 WINDOW C4RTOONS RESTRICTED DONATIONS COST 2,000 -2,000 YAiANCE FABRIC FUND BAlAN 111 RECEIPTS CORNERSfoNE DQYATION DONATIONS INSURANCE CIAIM DONATION FOR UGHTS TOTAL .582 23,212 16.000 2o,ofKJ 355 3,672 1,000 25,037 IE,000 PAYfvIEN7 CHURCH FABRIC FLOORING WATER SUPPLYIHQLY INNOCENTS CHURCH BQIIER qVINqUENNIALWORK LOWER HOUSE DOORS ELEcfRIc4L & LIfjHTIN SCREENS 3,9?.2 .515 1,697 21J84 114 1,181 531 3.987 CHURCH TOTAL 7.896 17,399 HALL FABRIC WORK HALL LIGHTS HALL BOILER HALL PORCH 2Y4 2,113 1,064 1,810 HALL TOTAL TOTAL 10,995 22,657 BAiANCE 80,587 25,582 Puge 15
MUSICAND ORGAN FUND BALANCE 111 RECEIPTS QRGAN PIPE & OTHER DONATIONS ORGAN STOPS PROJECT FROM BAREWELL FUND STONE LEGACY VAT REFUND 33 696 1,325 10,000 10,000 4,728 3aQ IOTAL 26,086 996 PAYMENTS PIANO TUNING ORGANTUNING ORGAN REPAIRS ORGAN PROJECT 69 138 900 14,969 TOTAL TRANSFER FROM GENERAL FUND 15,518 1,038 42 BALANCE 10,568 CHILDREN'SSOCIFrY BOXES 105 PAID TO SOCIETY -105 BALANCE PageJ6
PARISH OF ST MARYCHURCH STATEMENT OF FUNDS AT 31ST DECEMBER2024 BASIC GENERAL FUND IUNRESTRICTEDI 4,030 15,003 LEGACY FUND {DESIGNATED) 29,953 2,436 BAREWELL FUND {DESIGNATED 78,550 88,634 COMMQN FUND ACCOUNT {DESIGNATED} 13,758 FABRIC FUND (REsfRicfED) 30,587 25,582 ORGAN AND MUSIC FUND (RESTRICTED) 10,568 CHILDRENS, SOCIETY (RESTRicfED) TOTAL FUNDS 153,688 145,413 REPRESENTED BY CURRENT ACCOUNT UNBANKED INCOME CBF DEPOSIT ACCOUNT CBF INVESTMENT FUND UNPRESENTED CHEQUES 32,600 1,728 loo,000 20,000 -640 148,663 94tp (COST) -4,189 TOTAL FUNDS 153,688 145,413 The Market Value of the CBF Investment Fund UnFts at 31st December 2024 was £19,989. Poge17
The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch. Torquay. TQI 4PZ Notes to the Financial Statement for Year ending 31 December 2024 l. Accounting Policies Basis or Pre arl the Financial Statements The accounts are produced on a Receipt5 and Payments basis. As a small charity, it 15 not obliged to follow the Charities SORP IFRS 1021. Taxation The Charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities. 2. Fund Accounting Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objertives at the discretion of the Trustees. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when fund5 are raised for particular purposes. 3. Trustees, Remuneration and Benefits The Trustees received no remuneration of other beneffts for the year ended 31 December 2024. There were no Trustees. expenses paid for the year ended 31° December 2024. 4. Staff Costs One cleanerlcaretaker was employed during the year. 5. Debtors and Creditors All Debtors and Creditors are due within one year. Poge 18
The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Marychurch, Torquay, TQI 4PZ Independent Examiner Report to the Trustees of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parlsh of St Mary the Wirgin. St Marychurch, Torquay Charity Number: 1128269 I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Mary The Virgin, St Marychurch, Torquay for the year ended 31" December 2024. Responslbllltles ond basis of report As the charity trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 20111"the Act"). I report in respett of my examination of the Charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Comtni55ion under section 14515llbl of the Act. Independent examinerfs statement I have completed my examination. I 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.. (l) Accounting records were not kept in respett of the Chartty as required by settion 130 of the Act- or (2) The accoLJnts do not accord with those records. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connertion 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. lan Barrett FCA FCIE Barretts Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers 22 Union Street Newton Abbot TQ12 21S th Dated: 16 May 2025 Puge 19
General Re orts for 2024 Deane S od 'HI hli hts, for 2024 Christine and I have been St Mary's Deanery Synod representattves for the last three years, we will serve until the Annual Meeting in 2026. Three meetings were held in 2024: 7th March 2024, 17th July 2024, and 27th November 2024. Each session Commences with opening worship. Our role is to be prepared to contribute to the meetlng, bringing views, experience, and expertise from our parish to debate and discuss at Synod. 7th March 2024 In small groups everyone shared three areas of blessings. challenges, and opportunitie5. Archdeacon t)ougla5 reminded everyone that historically the parish system was the heart of the Church and that the twofold purpose of the church is mission and ministry. He stated that everyone was part of the church historically but now we are ministers in communities that are detached from the church. The archdeacon charged us to live the life of the deanery synod.. one that Is living and vibrant, encouragin& inspiring, resourcing and supporting. He expressed how the Parish Giving Scheme allows people to increase their gNing annually but 90% do. He stated that we should be asking ourselves 'could I give more? Has my giving gone up with inflation7' The secretary gave a summary of the October meeting of Diocesan Synod. Parishes were strongly encouraged to seek out new member5, either through the PCC or at Annual Meetings. The Lay Chair reminded us that we were still in need of a Deanery Treasurer. but James Devonport kindly ased to keep things 'ticking overf. 17th Jul 2024 There was a Presentation by Jeremy Putnam. Diocesan Mission Enabler, and a group discussion. Jeremy spoke of his 14 years in full-time mi55ion, firstly in a church plant in Portishead, a church that labelled itself ecumenical rather than denominational. then in a resourcing church in Truro. His role as a Mission Enabler wa5 to see what was already going on and then seek io resource. He quoted Antoine de Saint-Exupery, °If you want to build 0 ship. don't drum up people to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long forthe endless immen51ty of the sea., We were asked to consider two main questions- What is mission? and What is already going on in the diocese? Were children and young people in the forefront of our thinking? An explanation was provided of the Growing Faith movement that exists to put children. young people, and farnilies instinctivety at the heart of all the mission and ministry of the Church by changing the culture of the Church of England. Jeremy went on to explain that Mission Communities were not tiustl multi-parish benefices, but included churches. schools and households. Research showed that 95% of pupils in Y6 prayed and worshipped weekly but far fewer did by Y8. 50% said that they believed in God,. if they were all in our churches we would need a massive increase in capacity: our church leaders are already working at capacity. Statlstics were given from the Talking Jesus Report which shows the state of far(h in the UK, how people come to faith in jesus and how we, as the church, can talk about Jesus more effectwely with our friends and in our community. 48% identify as Christians but only 6% are prartising. 60% of the 48% know someone who is a practising Christian. The Secretary gave a brief report on the proceedings of the June meetin8 of Diocesan Synod. We were still looking for someone with the skillslgifts to serve as Deanery Treasurer. Thanks were expressed to our previous treasurer. Page20
27th November 2024 Claire Reynolds, curate at St Matthias. and Disability and Additional Needs Advisor for the Diocese of Exeter asked how we could make our churches more welcoming to people with additional needs and plans to offer training day5 around the diocese. Claire introduced a video prodUd by Urban Saints called Invited to Selong which has been developed by Youthscape and Urban Saints; iys a 5ix-part journey to consider, alongside those we work with, how we might invite young people with additional needs to find a pla of belonging within our community, youth group and church. A group discussion was then held, and we were asked to think of some of the barriers people may encounter Coming into our churche5, and in what way5 can we make them more-accessible places? What were the challenges, and what one thing Could we change? A5 this was the first synod meetin8 following the publicity about John Smythe, and the subsequent resignation of Archbishop Welby, Rev Samantha Stayte spoke on safeguarding. She explained independent Safeguarding Reports were being published, including one on Exeter Diocese. Deanery Synod wished to minute our appreciation of all those in our parishes who take on this role and explained tt was important that all PCC5 were compliant with DBS, Safer Recrnitment and ongoing training. Feedback from Diocesan Synod and General Synod were given and an update on Common Fund to include dlscus5i0n on Diocesan decisions on budget and stipendiary clergy. Thanks were expressed to all parishes that have paid their Common Fund contributions. The Rural Dean gave a takeaway away question of how do we care for one arkother? Nicola Hall and Christine Hinchliffe Deanery Synod Representatives Bell Tower Re ort for 2024 We have an enthusiastic team of rinEers. Three leamers are progressing well and are now competent to ring for Sunday Services. All our ringers are keen supporters of the Mid Devon Branch of the Guild of Devonshire Ringers who celebrated their 150th anniversary during 2024. Our tower Captain has just retired after 37 years as Branch Ringing Master- we are pleased to report that the branch 15 thriving and regularly holds practices and training events to help ringers in the area to progress and meet ringers from other churches. Martin continues to seyve on the Branch Committee and regularly produces a newsletter know as YowerTalV'. We are grateful that several ringers from the area regularly support our Tuesday practices which is a great benefit to our ringers. We desperately need new recruits and are alway5 ready to show potential ringers what is involved. We are in a very good position to teach the basics as several of our ringers have taken part in training organised by ART Ithe Association of Rlnglng Teocher51. Our ringers regularly support other churches, in particular Ibut not exclusive5yl Berry Pomeroy and Stokeinteignhead. Martin Mansley Towercaptaln Forward in Faith and Socie of St Wilfrid and St Hilda Re ort for 2023 Forward in Faith is the oanisation which funds the work of the Society of St Wilfrid and St Hilda, the Society. It is important that as a church affiliated to the society those member5 of our congregation are also member5 of the Society,. and should they wish to be, they are also encouraged to be members of Forward in Faith. This year saw Fr Nick and to hand the baton on to Fr Ben Rabjohn's, Team Rector of St Michael and All Angels, Heavitree. Mr5 Sue Way will continue as Lay Chair and localty Fr Peter March is a member of the council and the clerical representative forour Archdeaconry. Fr Nick Debney- Oiitgoing Clerical Chaimian of Forward In Faith Poge 21
Structure Governance and Mana ement Thi5 parish is a constituent member of the Torbay Deanery. The parish is within the Totne5 Archdeaconry In the Diocese of Exeter of the Church of England. This parish receive5 episcopal oversight from the Bishop of oswestry and has passed a resolution under the House of Bishop declaration on the ministry of Bishops and Priest5. This parish is affiliated with The Society under the Patronage of Saint Wilfrid and Saint Hilda and remains a member of Forward in Faith. Our services are of the Anglo-catholic tradition with our worship is enhanced by the use of incense, candles. music, altar servers, and vestments. This parish is registered with the Charity Commission- Charity Number 11282569. The Parochial Church Council is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The Parochial Church Council operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measu. Members that make up the Parochial Church Council are either elected, ex-officio or co-opted and are all iru5tees. Locally the parish is gDverned by the Parochial Church Council IPCCI which reFK>rts its attivities to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting IAPCMI of all laypersons who names are entered into the elertoral roll of the parish and all those clerics licensed to the parish or who have the Diocesan Bishops Penni5sion to Officiate. The APCM meets once a year and has a report on the work of the Parochial Church Council, reports from officers and leads on activities and an update on the fabric of church buildings and their use. At this meeting the elections of the Church Wardens and members ot the Parochial Church Council are held. Church Wardens are ex-officio member5 of the Parochial Church Council. Two Church Wardens are elected by the annual meeting of the parishioners Iduring the APCMI. This consists of members of the parish by local govemment electoral roll by reason of them residing in the parish and by those on the parish electoral roll. Licensed Clergy are Exffici0 members of the Parochial Church Council, the Team Rector is the Chair of the Parochial Church Council. Retired Clergy or Readers Wlth the Bishop's Pemiission to officiate do not have places within the Parochial Church Council. At the first Parochial Church Council meeting after the APCM the Officers of the PCC are elected Ivice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer). Co-opting of members can be undertaken at any Parochial Church Council meeting. Poge 22
The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin St Marychurch, Torquay. TQI 4PZ Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting th Held on Sunday 19 May 2024 in the Church after the Parish Mass The Meetin of The Parishioners There were 47 adults and 4 children in attendance. Fr Nick opened the rneeting in prayer. ies for Absence Apologies were received from Peter Gaston ITreasurerl, Margaret Harris. Minutes of the 2023 Annual Parochial Church Meetin Fr Nick asked all to turn to the rrbinutes of the 2023 Annual Parochial Church Meeting. The notes were correct as proposed by Meg Joliffe and seconded by Les Northway-Reux. Priest in Cha e's Re ort Fr Nick said had been an absolute joy to be here he offered a massrve thank you to everyone who ha5 played a part in the life of the church this year. We have had a number of high-profile events this year with concert5, performances. Most notably the commemoration of the 80 Anniversary of the bombing of the church with a wonderful display in the churchyard by the Yarn Fairies, an incredible and moving dance and music perfonllance in the Vigil Service and the Requiem Mass. We also welcomed the Archbishop of Canterbury to St Mary's for the 'Come and See, weekend of Mission. We have completed a large amount of physical work identified in the Quinquennial Inspection and Fr Nick paid tribute and offered thanks to all who volunteer and run Comerstone and for their very generous donations towards the upkeep of the fabric of the church. A significant project was also undertaken to address the issues with the Drgan, and he thanked everyone who sponsored a stop head to complete the project. It has been 3 joy to welcome Fr Kenny Wickens as out Assistsnt Curate to the parish. Fr Nick also thanked Chris Hinchliffe and Philippe Giorgetti for their 5UPPOrt for him and all they do for the parish. Last year saw the re-e5tablishment and growth of servers and choir and Fr Nick thanks them and all who undertake a ministry in the church to enhance our life and worship. Fr Nick asked if there were any questions of concerns which people wished to raise from the floor. There were none. Churchwardens Re ort Philippe Giorgetti presented the Churchwardens. Report. Philippe highlighted the need for more volunteers to join the Welcome Team. Fr N ick thanked him for his report. Election of churchwardens Christine Hinchliffe and Phillipe Giorgetti had been nominated as Churchwarden's Given there were no further nominations both were duly elected. Meetin Margaret Roper presented the revised Electoral Roll. There were eight additions, one has moved away and four have gone to Glory. The net electoral roll has increased to75. Fr Nick thanked Margaret Roperfor all her hard work with this. of Those on the Electoral Roll Page 23
Fr Nick presented the Secretary's Report. Angela intends to step down as PCC Secretary and Fr Nick invited volunteers to speak to him and to apply for this important role. Fr Nick presented the Treasurer's Report on behalf of Peter Gaston. The drop in income was highlighted due to one-off grants received in 2022, and submissions sought for fundraising ideas and support. Expenditure is increased from 2023, but this is expected, and in line with an increase in missional activity. We are continuing to support the payment of the Common Fund from the Barewell fund Ifrom the sale of the Curatos house in 20211. We are meeting all financial commitments but need to undertake some work surrounding our investment income, the claiming of Gift Aid and more budgeting and financial planning in the future. We need to keep a close eye on utilities in the hall and the church 88 we face an increase in our costs. Fr Nick said expressed sincere thanks to Cornerstone shop which makes a huge difference to the way we manage our finances and look after our beautiful building. Any questions, there were none. Thanks were expressed to Peter Gaston in his absence for his hard work throghout the year. Fle¢tions.of.thel_ar.o.cJ)iaLQIw The following people were elected to serve on the PCC for the ensuing year.. Jan Condict, Tui Shirley. Hayden Beazley, Janet Morgan, Les Northway-Reux, Valerie Oswin, Margaret Roper, Sarah Williams, Peter Gaston. Alistair Purser, David Clark, Jason Watkins Appointment of_A.n_Independ_e. The meeting appointed lan Barrett as independent examiner. Margaret Roper has agreed to continue as the Electoral Roll Officer. Parish Safeguarding Representativ.e Valerie Oswin has asked to step down as the Parish Safeguarding Representative. Fr Nick thanked Val for her (Jiligence and hard work, he highlighted the importance of this role and invited potential volunteers to contact him. Next_PCC_Me.eting The new PCC will meet for the first time on Wednesday 22nd lune at 7pm in Church. Tho APCM will take place after Mass on Sun(Jay 18th f4ay 2025 in Church after Mass Signed........ Fr Nick Debney, Team Rector Date.. 18th May 2025 Page 24