Charity registration number: 1128976 ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 **ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH** **For the year ended 31 December 2023** |**Contents**|| |---|---| |Legal and Administrative Information|1| |Trustees Report|2 -18| |lndependent Examiner's Report|`19`| |Statement of Financial Activities|20| |Balance Sheet|`21`| |Notes to the Financial Statements|22-34| **ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH** **For the year ended 31 December 2023** ## **Legal and Administrative Information** |Registered charity name|The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical| |---|---| ||Parish of St Mary-Le-Tower, Ipswich| |Charity number|1128976| |Principal address|St Mary-le-Tower Vicarage| ||18 Kingsfield Avenue| ||Ipswich| ||Suffolk| ||IPl 3TA| |Church location|Tower Street| ||Ipswich| ||Suffolk| ||IPl 3BE| |Main correspondenceaddress|Parish Office| ||Church House| ||Oak Lane| ||Ipswich| ||Suffolk| ||IPl 3BN| |lndependent examiner|Moore Green Chartered Accountants| ||22 Friars Street| ||Sudbury| ||Suffolk| ||C010 2AA| |Trustees|The Revd Tom Mumford (Chairman and lncumbent)| ||The Rev Jo Gunn (Vice Chair and Assistant Curate)| ||Mr David Matthews (Churchwarden and Donations Administrator)| ||Mrs Bridget Hanley (Churchwarden)| ||Miss Rosemary Caudle (Hon. PCC Secretary)| ||Mr Andrew Gosden (PCC Treasurer)| ||Mrs Sue Adair| ||Mrs Mary Baldry (Health and Safety Officer)| ||Mr Richard Hanley| ||Mrs Joanna Jones| ||Mrs Hilary Norman| ||Mrs Sarah Purbrook (Parish Safeguarding Officer)| ||Mr Will Harrison| ||Mr Jonathan de Bernhardt Wood| 1 **ST MARV-LE-TOWER IPSWICH** **For the year ended 31 December 2023** ## **Trustees’ Annual Report** The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2023. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's [governing document], the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of lreland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019). ## **Aims and Purposes** The primary object of St Mary-le-Tower Ipswich PCC is the promotion of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC (Powers) Measure 1956 states that to do this, the PCC is to co-operate with the minister in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the Church of St Mary-le-Tower Ipswich and the adjacent Church House and Tower House buildings. The PCC mission statement is as follows: "St Mary le Tower seeks to be a welcoming, inclusive and open church, offering peace and sanctuary in the heart of Ipswich, flourishing through prayer, faith, and positive action" ## **Objectives and Activities** At the beginning of 2022, the PCC engaged in a vision and strategic plan for the next five years. This vision and strategic plan continues to be our guide. As part of this plan, the PCC identified five areas of work that will help it achieve its vision. These are: welcome, worship, faith, act, and sustain. The plan, including its strategic objectives and activities are summarised below: ## **Welcome** We will provide a peaceful sanctuary for all through: - An open church 6 days a week; - A welcoming, accessible, and safe space for all; - Hosting events and organisations for culture, learning and fun ## **Worship** We will enable all to experience the love and presence of God through exceptional worship - Offering daily prayer for the people and town of Ipswich; - Developing and sustaining choral excellence, with a particular focus on future generations; - Creating a monthly service tailored to and led by young people ## **Faith** We will be a place where people can encounter, deepen, and grow in faith. - Providing multiple opportunities for people to explore and enquire about Christianity; - Holding regular events promoting the discussion of the Christian faith in contemporary life and the public square; - Nourishing and deepening people's existing faith, across all ages. 2 ## **Objectives and Activities continued...** ## **Act** We will discern and respond to local need using pilot projects in the areas of: - Health - Loneliness ## - Poverty ## **Sustain** We will secure a financially, environmentally and socially sustainable future through: - A coherent and ambitious giving and fundraising project to fund our plans; - Working towards attaining the highest possible Eco Church status; - Adopting an intergenerational approach to mission and ministry, seeking partnership with local organisations, and - developing the next generation of church leaders. ## **Achievements and Performance** 2023 was a year of real optimism and realisation. We continued to build on the substantial groundwork laid in 2022 and a sustainable future of the church feels even more realisable. The congregation has continued to grow, finances have continued to show positive signs of recovery, long-standing challenges facing buildings such as Tower House have as good as resolved (CAB now installed as anchor tenant), and civic relationships are as strong as they have been (demonstrated through the Ipswich Minster petition). The church feels well and truly at the heart of the life of the town. Though of course there is still more to do in ail areas (it will ever be so), there is certainly much hope and optimism for the future of lpswich's civic church, as well as a continued determination to meet the challenges it faces. St Mary le Tower is a growing and faithful church with incredible potential, huge talent, and a dedicated and loving community. Examples of this follow in the sections below. ## **First, THANK VOU!** Before talking about 'achievements and performance' as required by the charity commission for this annual report, it is important to say, as I have sought to at regular intervals during my incumbency, THANK VOU. The mission and ministry of St Mary le Tower would not be possible without the ministry of so many members of the church community. Ministry is something that is done by the whole Body of Christ and so the PCC thanks ail those who offer their time, gifts, and services to God in this place. Those individuals who volunteer their time, whether through the Top-Up Shop, music, pastoral care, worship leading, church and churchyard care, administrative support, fundraising, flowers, bell ringing and many other ways, are too many to name, but to all of you the PCC wishes to offer you it's sincere thanks and continues to thank God for you ! ## **Worship, Pastoral Care and Discipleship** During 2023 the regular Sunday worship pattern included 4 services: a Book of Common Prayer Communion service, Choral Matins, Sung Eucharist, and Choral Evensong. There are sermons delivered at both the 8am BCP Service and the 10:30 Sung Eucharist. The latter of which is the best attended and has seen continued growth in 2023. ln 2023 it averaged a weekly attendance of between 80 and a 100, but regularly saw more than 110-20 attenders for special services and feasts. Across a Sunday, by the end of 2023, the average church attendance was around 180 people. The 10:30 Sung Eucharist is also live-streamed every week and attracts a small number of regular worshippers who value the opportunity to share in worship with others. A real highlight of the last worshipping year was being selected to lead the Church of England's national online service for Midnight on Christmas Eve. This was a Sung Eucharist. ln particular, the choir and music staff deserve enormous thanks and credit. 3 ## **Worship, Pastoral Care and Discipleship continued...** 2023 saw the Coronation of a new monarch, King Charles Ill. The church held the town's commemorative service for the occasion. lt saw a full church following a procession from the Town Hall, and included civic dignitaries including the High Sheriff of Suffolk who read a lesson. Other contributors to the service were young people from voluntary organisations with a royal patronage across the town. Other civic service highlights included the Centenary Service for the Rotary, the Wolsey 550 Evensong with a preacher from Christ Church Oxford, the annual mayor's service, and the Suffolk Windrush 75th Anniversary service, as well as others. The addition of the Daily Offices, instituted by the Vicar when he arrived, continues to be a real gift to the church and the town. Morning Prayer continues to be well attended and was said in church Monday to Friday (being sung on a Sunday). A particular thanks to Jim Robinson, the Verger and Cathy Moss, who have led these prayers when the lncumbent has been absent. 2023 also saw the instution of Evening Prayer five days a week, including towards the end of the year a service of Choral Evensong on a Friday. At 10.30am on Wednesdays there is a Book of Common Prayer service of Holy Communion. This is the primary service of worship, and experience of church, for a small community of faithful people. Congregants at this service ranged from between 8 and 15 people. Though this congregation has lost some attenders through ill health, it has added to its number and remained strong. Following the service tea, coffee, and biscuits are always shared enabling regular fellowship. This community of worshippers have a strong bond and are always open to newcomers. They even have their own Christmas meal to which the Vicar is invited and attends. Pastoral care and visiting have been a high priority for the Vicar. The Vicar and others regularly visit housebound members of the church family, as well as visiting those in hospital or in care when required. The Vicar's civic ministry has also led him into the lives of those outside the worshipping congregation and this has included much pastoral care. Funerals and memorial services both at the Tower and outside have resulted from this. To ensure effective pastoral care, members of the congregation are encouraged to let the Vicar know if they or anybody they know would value a visit from him or any of the pastoral visiting team. The Vicar also encourages any within the church family to consider whether pastoral visiting couId be a calling of theirs. During 2023 there were a number of discipleship opportunities that sought to deepen people's faith. There was a sermon and seminar series on Sunday mornings in Lent on the Lord's Prayer with a series of guest preachers. There was also a quiet morning with talks from an external speaker, as well as two weekly Lent study groups. Tower Talks continued for a second year in 2023, this year following the town-wide theme celebrating Thomas Wolsey. This year's talks took the particular focus of the relationship between Church and the public realm. lt included speakers from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, as well as a former convenor of the Lord's Spiritual. Pub Theology continued to be a well-attended fixture in the church calendar as a place to discuss God, faith, and life, in a more informal setting. _The Reverend Tom Mumford_ _Vicar_ 4 ## **Choral Tradition and Music** 2023 proved to be a very busy and successful year for the choir. Following the busyness of Christmas, the year's first musical highlight was the Choral Scholar Recital at the end of January. The choral scholars acquitted themselves very well under their new teacher Megan. The Director of Music, Vicar and Churchwarden also appointed a Music Department Administrator who started soon thereafter. Aside from the choir's weekly Sunday schedule, the Spring Term's focus was directed towards a performance of Bach's St John Passion, which took place on 1 April 2023 in Clare, West Suffolk. The concert was held here to prevent a clash with two other local performances of the same work, whilst also seizing on the opportunity to tackle this great work, with the choristers and members of the choir singing the solos. The beginning of April also heralded Holy Week and Easter, with the choir also taking part in the procession from the Town Hall on Palm Sunday. May brought with it the start of the Lunchtime Concert season. There was an excellent range of concerts and artists. We are grateful to those companies and individuals who sponsored concerts. We can report a loyal audience which fluctuates in number depending on the concert but also seems to be growing gradually. The choir took part in the Civic Coronation Service on Friday 5 May. At the end of the month the choir toured to York Minster for the feast of Pentecost. The choir sang 4 services at the Minster: Evensong on the Saturday, Matins, Eucharist and Evensong on the Sunday and the choristers sang an upper voices Evensong at St Olaf's on the Monday. The tour was a great success musically and in every respect. The remainder of the summer term included the Deanery Confirmation Service and Eucharist and Procession for Corpus Christi. We said goodbye to some excellent singers at the end of the year. During the summer holidays, the Music Department hosted the first of several Key Stage 2 Singing Workshops. The first was run by Claire Gower and Owen Butcher. The workshop was fully booked, and the feedback was excellent. A second workshop took place in October. The beginning of the autumn term began with the reintroduction of weekday evensong on Fridays. Unlike before, the boys and girls join each Friday to sing an upper voices' service. Unlike Sundays, the music is simpler, and the service is geared towards the development of the younger voices. lt is pleasing that there is regular congregation at these services. At the end of September, the Tower Chamber Choir performed a concert of Britten's Rejoice in the Lamb and Bernstein's Chichester Psalms. Despite very uncertain attendance at the rehearsals, the concert was the most musically accomplished of my tenure. Many of the solos were undertaken by Matthew Jones a year 7 treble in our choir. He stole the show. The choir and church as a whole celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Girls Choir at Harvest Festival at the beginning of October. Since their founding, they have proved to be an essential cornerstone of the church's life. Here's to many more years to corne! October brought with it the Civic Service and a joint evensong service with Ipswich School to celebrate the 550th Anniversary of Cardinal Wolsey. Continuing with the Wolsey celebrations, the boy choristers and adults sang Evensong at the Chapel Royal Hampton Court Palace. The boys made such a good impression that the Chapel Royal are planning a return visit in 2024. The choir sang Victoria's Requiem for 6 voices for Ali Souls' Service. Later in November the Girls and adults recorded Midnight Mass for Christmas Eve for the Church of England's YouTube Channel. This was released on 24th December 2023 and had over 4,000 views. After months of discussions, it was confirmed that a partnership would exist between Framlingham College and St Maryle-Tower. As part of this, the Director of Music was employed full-time, and the school and church were given Choir School Association status. 5 ## **Choral Tradition and Music continued...** The Winter Lunchtime Concert Series began at the end of November with a range of concerts complementing the festive feel in the church brought about by the Christmas Tree Festival. The Choir celebrated two Advent Vigil services this year. The girls and adults sang the first in our church on Advent 1. The following weekend the whole choir travelled to St Michael's Church Framlingham, where we joined their church choir as well as the choir of Framlingham College and Sing Praise! The latter service was due to be an RSCM service, however the local RSCM hubs were closed in the autumn of 2023. Future diocesan events will need to be hosted by the likes of St Mary-le-Tower or St Edmundsbury Cathedra!, or a church with the resources to carry something off. lnstead of Handel's Messiah, the choir performed a festive programme of Suffolk based composers. This included Britten's Ceremony of Carols and St Nicolas Cantata. Other works included were by Matthew Heyburn and Alex Campkin. At the annuai Crib Service, which was held on Advent Ill, we celebrated and thanked Lis Rollinson for her 23 years as a Choir Assistant, as she had decided to retire from the role. The year concluded with the best attended Choir Christmas Concert in many years, as well as the busiest and musically successful Nine Lessons and Carols service. 1 would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Vicar, Churchwardens, PCC and congregation for their support of the Music Department over the past year. 1 would also like to thank my colleagues, William, Matthew, Lis, Owen and Megan for their tireless work. And finally, a thank you to all the choir members: choristers; parents; choral scholars; adults for their hard work and excellent attitude. ## _Christopher Borrett_ ## _Director of Music_ ## **St Mary-le-Tower Ringing Masters Report** Firstly, we bid adieu to David Potts who stepped down as Ringing Master earlier last year. He has handed the reigns to Colin Salter whose leadership has seen us maintain a fantastically high standard of ringing both across Suffolk and the whole of East Anglia. St Mary-le-Tower came first in the Suffolk Guild 6 Bell competition, adding the Mitson Shield to our cabinet. This was followed with good efforts in the South East District 6 Bell, the Guild 8 bell, and the George W Pipe 12 Bell competition coming third in all three despite fierce competition. lt's a credit to our strength in numbers that we are able to field not one, but two competitive teams at most of these events. The highlight of our year was our performance for the Coronation of HM King Charles Ill on 6th May 2023. The bells sang out across Ipswich for almost three and a half hours in a fantastic performance that ended up with the band sharing a drink together and reflecting on the difficulty of this achievement. Even when the ringing became tricky, people became tired, or the bells started feeling heavier than usual, we rallied together and determinedly brought it home with a flourish. SMLT has been at the forefront of some of the most exciting performances in the history of bell ringing, but no activity couId be more adventurous than stepping into the belfry for the first time and having a go. Our Training Bell project to create a state-of-the-art ringing centre is advancing nicely! lt will be perfect for introducing new people to the tower, to the bells, and to the rest of the band. We expect it to be fully operational this time next year, and we look forward to showing you around. From a maintenance perspective, our bell ropes have begun expressing sympathy for our ringers in that they're both showing signs of ageing. We're hoping to remedy the yellowing, stiffness, and frayed edges with a series of ongoing replacements and repairs ail around the ringing circle. Digitally, our new webmaster has rejuvenated our website to give you a clear history and understanding of everything ringing related at SMLT. Our thanks to George Heath-Collins for his excellent web development skills. 6 ## **St Mary-le-Tower Ringing Masters Report continued...** Finally, although we're used to our band ringing the changes, it's tricky when changes happen within our band. The way we've adapted to our challenges and persevered with difficult ringing has been exceptional. Thank you to ail the ringers at SMLT for supporting the tower, the surrounding area, and above all each other. ## _Hal Meakin_ _St Mary le Tower, Ipswich_ _SE District Ringing Master_ & _Treasurer of SMLT Society of Change Ringers_ ## **Care of the Churchyard** The South Churchyard has continued to be managed by June Molloy and a number of other volunteers. lt is well used, especially in fine weather, by members of the wider community. A silver birch sapling was planted to contribute to Her late Majesty's green canopy. Spending the funds, provided by Suffolk County Council, to develop a Covid Memorial garden in the North Churchyard will be deferred to 2024 due to the difficulty in obtaining a Faculty. The Verger has continued to oversee the use of the churchyard to reduce its use for undesirable activity. ## _David Matthews_ ## _Churchwarden_ The gardening team has continued its work in maintaining the churchyard during the last 12 months. The team now consists of five of us; 1 am hugely indebted to Tony James, Mike and Penny Bloss and Catherine Beresford, whose contributions to the upkeep of the churchyard make so much difference to its overall appearance. My grateful thanks are also directed to Paul Whinney, who did sterling leaf clearance work in the autumn, when, due to family circumstances, I was unable to work in the churchyard for a number of weeks. Many members of the public as well as members of the church's congregation seem to appreciate the efforts that go towards making the churchyard "a green oasis" in the heart of Ipswich. There is always much to do to keep up with the sheer volume of work needed, so we are always grateful for volunteers to offer help. Gardening is known for its therapeutic qualities, so why not give it a try? You will always be welcome! _June Mollay_ ## _Gardener_ ## **Care of the Church** ## **The Verger** Jim Robinson was appointed verger in January. During the year, the post has undergone a number of changes as we discover what is the most effective range of tasks to be completed across any week. Having a verger who lives on site has meant that the church has been accessible to the general public most days for at least eight hours. The post will continue to be refined during 2024. A Music Administrator has been appointed for 5 hours a week, funded by a three-year grant from Cathedra! Music Trust. The post-holder, Owen Butcher, has been crucial to the delivery of the first two Music Outreach activities. David Matthews line-manages Jim Robinson and informally mentors Matt Heyburn and Owen Butcher. ## _D. Matthews_ ## _Churchwarden_ 7 ## **Sanctuary Guild** During the past year the Sanctuary GuiId has continued to be responsible for the care of Altar Frontals and the Priests regalia and laundering of the Altar linen. Sue Adair continues to lead and encourage our team of Flower Arrangers. We thank them for their lovely flower arrangements throughout the year: especially for the major festivals; most recently at Easter. We welcome more folk to join the group and share the task. Funds are available to offset the cost of flowers. _Hilary Norman_ ## **Flower Arranging** The Flower Rota has run smoothly over the past year. Sadly we have lost two people and we are gaining one. Hopefully we will gain a few more in 2024. We had a good response for donations for Easter li lies. Easter is always an expensive time of year for flowers so these donations are always gratefully received. A few of the children and some adults prepared the Mothering Sunday posies. _Sue Adair_ ## **Church Fabric Report** As a result of Storm Babet in October there was water ingress into the belfry. The architect, Ashley Courtney, inspected the area and confirmed that ail was safe and looked again at the chancel step which is a concern as it is subsiding and causing a trip hazard. lt was decided to put the carpet back until the area couId be checked and a specification for work decided upon and the work completed. Specialist felt underlay was purchased to protect the brasses in the meantime and also some specialist wax to be applied to them every 3 or 4 months. Quotes were obtained to repair two rainwater pipes and work will take place after Easter 2024. Work was done to clear the gulleys and gutters as per the architect's specification in December 2023. lan Molloy has continued to do an excellent job throughout the year on the fabric, including cleaning the woodwork in the chancel, for which we are most grateful. This painstaking work makes a huge difference. A children's altar was donated for use with school visits and in the children's area. A glass washer was installed in one of the kitchen cupboards at the back of Church in time for Trees @ The Tower and proved to be extremely useful. lt is also used after coffee on a Sunday. The donations box was broken into in November and has been taken away to be repaired and made more secure. Two candlesticks and a wafer box were stolen in September. The CCTV was very useful in helping the Police investigate the thefts. Four lovely new wooden candlesticks were made by Edward Faull, a former chorister of this Church and dedicated at a service in December. We were also delighted to receive a new icon of the Angel Gabriel by Tracy de Bernhard Wood, intended for use with the children, which was also dedicated in December. _Bridget Hanley_ _Churchwarden_ 8 ## **Works carried out by lan Molloy** - **Clark for Minor Works** The elaborate carved wooden screen between the (high) altar rail and the outer vestry was in great need of being cleaned. 1 decided to take on restoring in it on ail features; clean, repair (where required); polish from top to bottom and remove the prodigious quantities of dust from all nooks and crannies. The processes involved starting from the top and ended at floor level, as follows:- The tracery at the top of the screen faced outwards from both sides at a height of about 11 feet. The inner sides of this tracery couId not be seen easily from ground level. The removal of (probably) over 150 years' accumulated dust was achieved using a small industrial vacuum cleaner, dustpan and brush and wet towels. I was working up a triangular ladder and most of this tracery could not be seen from ground level. lt was a very slow process, but it made it possible to clean the top of the screen and introduced me to some dodgy electrical cables. (Quite a shock!). About 50% of the total cables were older than me and had not been used since Adam was a lad. I thought that it would be a good idea to remove redundant cables, one of which had been stripped to expose about a finger's length offine copper cable at its end. I am deaf and was wearing hearing aids. I was unaware of the rainstorm which was rumbling above but the blinding flash from the stripped cable, less than half a metre from my head, drew it to my attention. I disconnected the cables and detached ail of the old / unused cables. Then I washed the dirty wood and tidied the newer cables. On each side of the upper sections of this screen are Biblical quotations, carved in Oak about 160 years ago. ln order to make the script clear, the letters had to be washed four times until the background to the script was cleared, making it easier to read the carved script along each side of the screen's length. Sorne letters needed to be repaired or replaced and they were all French Polished (at least twice) sufficiently to make them legible from ground level. Below the Biblically-carved scripts are some larger screens, the upper parts of which are elaborately carved. Such carvings, when they had been French Polished, became much clearer and brighter. Again, these carvings needed to be washed and dried before the French Polish couId be dried. The mouldings around these panels have also been similarly treated. The flatter, lower panels, particularly those near water-filled radiators, have had wax polish applied, where necessary, and the cast iron radiator has been washed. ## **The French Polishing of the Organ Loft** - **work in progress** The work in the organ loft (Where the organists work) started during the summer. 1 washed down the wooden panels, inclusive of removing wooden panels, so that I couId gain access to the "below-floor" level. Sorne of this panelling has been washed and French Polished. This gives a bright polish, even in an organ loft. The other panels - those which have a light-brown stain, will be given a pale French Polish in order to improve the appearance of the organ loft at the back of the choir pews. I will then start to polish the well-made carvings above the level of the Cantoris basses and above the organists. This may need some further provision of a suitable ladder. ## **Damage to carvings and other furniture** I am greatly concerned about the damage that has been caused by mistreatment to the priest's chair on Cantoris which is broken into numerous parts. lt took me about 40 or 50 hours to repair and it is now in a much better condition. I believe that this chair originated from the same period as the similar chair used by the Vicar. ## **The carved sea horse (ca. 1862)** This was damaged about a month ago. ln my view, the four carved sea horses should be left at the front of the nave where they have been for many a long year. Although I spent much of early January repairing the sea horse and replacing its parts, I still have further work to do on it. I feel that care should be taken not to expose it to unnecessary damage. _/an Mollay_ _Clark for Minor Works_ 9 ## **Tower House** Tower House is on track to be converted into a viable asset. This is achieved by installing an anchor tenant, Ipswich Citizens Advice Bureau, (CAB) and having all utility bills and management costs covered by the tenants through a Tenants Committee. Costs for the necessary renovation are covered by a restricted fund. Sufficient sums will be kept back for any future capital expenditure on the building. Work on the South Wing has included the renovation of Room F1, previously affected by dry rot and the eradication of damp in Room G1. This has been completed to enable CAB to occupy the whole of South Wing, apart from two attic rooms. Work on the North Wing has reconfigured the space to provide appropriate accommodation for the Song School with two practice rooms, a library, lavatories and an office. Decoration and some minor snagging tasks will be completed in January. CAB has been paying rent from May 2023. lt has contributed to the necessary upgrading of fire and security systems. CAB pays for the Wi-Fi across all the building. CAB is responsible for 62% of operating costs, including utility bills. The Song School is responsible for 22%. The short fall will be made up by the PCC until the remaining area has a tenant, following departure of Oyster Press and the need to address the damp affecting the ground floor rooms. The car park of Tower House is now managed Monday to Friday by CAB. During this time, SMLT has four parking spaces although members of the church who have been issued permits may park, with permission from CAB, during office hours. lt is expected that Tower House will break even financially by the end of 2024, after which time it will be a net contributor to church funds. The relationship between SMLT and CAB is cordial and will allow for Tower Street to be rebranded as a place where citizens of Ipswich can find support and peace. ## _David Matthews_ _Churchwarden_ ## **Projects, Liaison and Administration** The Sanctuary Centre for Asylum Seekers was established in May and ran until the autumn, closing two weeks before the Novotel Hotel was closed as accomodaation for asylum seekers. The project was funded by a range of donors and was managed with extraordinary efficiency and warmth by Molly Leeson, supported by a number of volunteers. This was a worthwhile project demonstrating the churche’s compassion for those seeking refuge. It provided a welcoming environment where the men could socialize, learn English and begin to understand the British culture. Plans have begun to consider inaugurating a festival to commemorate the 825th anniversary of the granting of lpswich's Charter by King John. David Mathews has represented St Mary le Tower at events run by Ipswich Town Pastors, Ipswich Social Mobility Alliance, Greener Ipswich. Jo Jones attended Top Up Shop meetings on behalf of SMLT. The Senior Team held regular meetings and there were also handovers for the incoming Churchwarden. _D. Matthews_ ## _Churchwarden_ ## **Social Events** Throughout the year there were several social gatherings which primarily featured food and drink! Pancakes were provided on Shrove Tuesday and enjoyed by all from the whole church community. The now traditional cooked breakfast was enjoyed after the Sunrise service on Easter Day and a bring and share lunch was organised before the APCM in May. ln September Diana Pipe opened her garden and hosted a wonderful afternoon tea on a sunny Saturday. The usual bring and share lunch marked Harvest Festival and celebratory cake and fizz were served after Tom's collation as incumbent of St Mary le Tower in September. _Richard Hanley_ 10 ## **Pins and Needles** The craft group, Pins and Needles, continues to meet in Church House on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month from 122pm. We are a small band of crafting individuals who enjoy taking a two-hour break from routine to sit, craft, nibble, drink and natter about anything and everything. We've put the world to rights more than once! Our membership is drawn from the Tower community and beyond, and we would always welcome anyone who would like to join us. The level of any craft practised does not matter, the individual member does. We pay £1 per session with this money contributing to church funds. If you fancy a chance to take a breather in life's busy routine do come and join us. _June Mollay_ ## **Top Up Shop** The SMLT Top Up Shop offering on Wednesday morning is an integral part of the Ipswich group of Top Up Shops (TUS) offered by the Anglican Church community. We receive food from FareShare, a charity that takes excess food from supermarkets and re distributes it to various local charities such as Ipswich TUS. Food is received on Tuesday morning and stock control and setting up takes place on Tuesday afternoons in readiness for Wednesday. Toiletries, nappies and household cleaning products are very popular among customers and these come from donations of cash or goods to the SMLT TUS or from other organisations linked to the Ipswich TUS organisation. These are unreliable in terms of regular supply, so donations in kind are always very welcome. Thanks to financial donations from individuals and Ipswich East Rotary Club, we are able to purchase much needed non-food items from time to time from various sources. On Wednesday morning, after setting up the café, most volunteers say Morning Prayer at 08.30. Some Customers choose to join us on occasion. The TUS opens at 09.00 and stays open for an hour. Some customers are queueing in Tower Street from 7.15 am whatever the weather. £2 per bag is charged per customer. A clothing rail is also available to customers to take anything that they need. We try to ensure that all customers have equal access to all products on offer. Alongside the TUS a pop up cafe operates every week, offering hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and other cold light foods e.g. sausage rolls, quiche, cake, biscuits, either donated by volunteers or accepted from the local Sainsbury in Northgate Street. There is an arrangement with Sainsbury that a volunteer visits on Tuesday to collect anything that they feel we can use; this may be bread, cakes, flowers and very occasionally vegetables. The café clients stay until around 10.20 am and some stay for the 10.30 Holy Communion Service. The Ipswich TUS group have regular Zoom meetings to discuss issues and successes and procedural and supplier topics. The SMLT volunteers communicate via a WhatsApp account and have occasional meetings to share information, thoughts and ideas. Safeguarding and Food Hygiene training is underway for volunteers. Many thanks to the Tuesday and Wednesday volunteers, who arrive weekly to help those struggling with food poverty in Ipswich. ## _JoJones_ ## **Trees @ the Tower' - Chirstmas Tree Festival** The planning group debriefs and learns from each T@TT offering early in the year. The main focus for 2024 is to recruit people with enthusiasm for refreshing the T@TT offering to the town of Ipswich. The Planning Group is currently comprised of a small group which would benefit from some new thoughts and ideas for 2024. Do get in touch if you feel you have something to offer T@TT 2024! We welcomed over 550 visitors in 2023, slightly less than 2022. On Friday 2nd December, BBC Radio Suffolk were exhorting people "not to travel to Ipswich" as the Orwell Bridge closure caused gridlock within the town. There was also a short cold snap too. We lost a significant number of visitors during that time compared to previous years. However, those who did brave these issues enjoyed the T@TT experience; the trees, the café and the children's activities were ail highly praised and appreciated. Highlights were the Children's' Concert involving St Margarets, St Matthews and St Johns schools on Friday 2nd December and the Christingle Service on Monday 5th December. Both were very weil attended and greatly enjoyed by all. Financially T@TT was also a success, bringing in around just over f6,000 to SMLT after expenses and donations to our chosen charities, Inspire Suffolk and Bright Futures, which have both appreciated the additional donations to their work. _Jo Jones_ 11 ## **Deanery Synod Report** Ali churches within the deanery, including St Mary le Tower, are now part of a WhatsApp group, sent to all churchwardens. This allows for a rapid exchange of ideas or concerns, as well as a forum for questions to support the effective running of all churches. Recent meetings, including the Deanery Conference, have provided those attending with opportunities to break into smaller groups to sample different activities or experiences which our own churches might want to consider offering. Representatives from SMLT have sampled Messy Church, 'Wiggle Worship', lgnatian meditation, Cursilio {lgnatian spirituality), and the Guild of Our Lady. The synod has been addressed by the Diocesan Mission Adviser asking the question, 'Are we ready to use what God has provided?' ln June we heard from the Archdeacon for Mission & Regeneration from Christchurch New Zealand Mark Chamberlain. He talked about his experiences and raised the question of Maintenance vs Mission and suggested we should have 2 or 3 mission priorities. He also spoke about the need for a digital mission, for example weekly e mails and social media. We also thought more widely about God's creation and about giving and talents within our Churches - Do we know people well enough to identify their talents and do we really listen when they offer them? The Rural Dean has spoken on matters covering finance, fund-raising, new appointments, the diocesan Net Zero target, administration and working together across the deanery so that Christians can find a church which offers a style of worship that suits them. Many of us feel that we would welcome more opportunities to chat and share experiences and forge opportunities to work together, like our Corpus Christi procession with St Mary Elms. _David Matthews and Bridget Hanley_ _Churchwardens_ ## **Diocesan Synod Report** Diocesan Synod was held at the Cathedra! on the Feast of St John the Baptist. The presidential address was given by Bishop Martin on the subject of Climate Change. He spoke about sustaining the Creation and how we should all be committed to safeguarding all Creation. He mentioned how important it was to work with young children about this subject and to possibly change our lifestyles. It seems that schools have 47% of carbon emissions and churches 28%. The aim is to reduce these by 40% within the diocese. More than a 1/4 of churches within the diocese have completed their carbon footprint. A bid has been made within the eastern region for a net zero carbon officer. We then heard from the principle of Kagera Theological College about the effect of climate change on the Diocese of Kagera. They are now making great efforts to educate the community and making sure that every church can plant seeds and trees. The planting of avocados is helping the community to fight poverty. There has been so much deforestation that they are trying to control the use of firewood. All institutions should have a place to plant trees. The College has planted over 6 acres of trees. Each diocese in this country has been given £15,000 towards net carbon emissions. Many churches have signed up for ECO church. We then split into discussion groups to discuss different aspects of climate change and Net Zero Carbon. We had an update on Cathedra! matters and on Diocesan Finance. Jane Sheat presented her annual report for the Board of Education. There was a presentation by Archdeacon Sally Gaze on the work of the Rural Mission project and another on Clergy Wellbeing which will be a major discussion item at Octobers Synod. Synod closed with a blessing by Bishop Martin. 12 ## **October Synod 2023** Diocesan Synod was held on zoom on Saturday 14th October. After opening prayers the Bishop thanked those who were retiring and welcomed newcomers. He especially welcomed Gary Peverley as the new Diocesan Secretary. He then spoke about Clergy Wellbeing. The key focus of Synod was on Clergy Care and Wellbeing. Following discussion in small groups, the synod voted to adopt the Church of England' covenant for clergy wellbeing. Some key points were: The church recognises that God calls some to serve as deacons, priests and bishops to build up and equip the whole people of God. Conscious that such a calling is both a privilege and a demand recommit together to promote the welfare of our clergy and their households. We undertake to work together to coordinate and improve our approach to clergy care and wellbeing so that the whole church may flourish in the service of the mission of the God. Karen Galloway, the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer then gave her report and spoke about her work on a day to day basis. She pointed out that safeguarding is making sure that places of worship are safe places. Other topics included the budget for 2024 which was passed by Synod. A report from the DAC and a report on Net Zero Carbon. The Synod concluded with a prayer. _Sue Adair_ _Diocesan Synod Representative_ ## **Safeguarding Report** The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in Church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of the Church. As a Church we are committed to promoting a safer environment and culture, safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children and vulnerable adults, responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation, caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse or other affected persons, caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns/allegations of abuse and other affected persons and responding to those that may pose a present risk. The PCC, the church wardens, the music team, and many of the choir, the bell ringers and those with roles of responsibility have completed or renewed safeguarding training. There is the opportunity for all congregation members to complete Basic and Foundation level training. Throughout the year we have completed DBS checks as necessary and assessed safeguarding training needs for those involved in church roles and our community initiatives. We have had a small number of safeguarding questions and concerns in the fast year, these have been dealt with appropriately in a prompt and efficient manner, often with the guidance of Karen Galloway, Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser. Myself and Rev Jo Gunn are meeting regularly to ensure Safeguarding at St Mary le Tower remains a priority and is kept up to date. Our latest Safeguarding Policy is displayed on the website for everyone to access along with the CofE Safeguarding Policy and the 'Promoting a Safer Church' Poster, which now includes photos of myself and Rev Jo Gunn. _Sarah Purbrook_ ## _Parish Safeguarding Officer_ 13 ## **Financial Review** ## **Overview** 2023 has seen improved performance over 2022. Although we are still running an operational deficit. Our general operations - general fund and music ministry showed a deficit of £29,500 {£41,400 in 2022) before transfers and returns on our CCLA investments. lncluding investment growth the operational deficit was only f17,600. lnvestment growth can't be relied on however and growth in one year can be wiped out the next, as we saw in 2021 to 2022. We have seen increased giving and more people giving which is very encouraging. The operation of Tower House made a loss of £5,100 in the year {£18,800 in 2022). We expect Tower House to make an operational surplus in 2024 now that the CAB has moved in as the anchor tenant. Over £205,000 was spent on making Tower House ready for the CAB and also for the Song School, this included repairs, decoration and the installation of a completely new fire and security system at a cost of £45,000. Only £5,200 was spent on church and Church House fabric during the year, but a generous legacy from the estate of Jill Ganzoni of over £l0,000, plus an ongoing annual grant of £12,500 from the Belstead Ganzoni Charitable Trust means that the fabric fund at the end of 2023 sits at over £25,000, which is an improvement but does not even begin to address the needs identified from the quinquennial review. lnvestment performance this year was healthy, with a return on our CCLA investments of 9.5%. Despite good progress continued focus is needed and it is essential that we see: - lncreased monthly giving through our giving campaign, both for general fund and for music. Music is of immense value for the life and ministry of our church but is also understandably expensive to maintain - Additional grants and giving urgently identified, especially to fund fabric and music. - Tower House returning a surplus in 2024, with the new agreement with the CAB we are on course to achieve this. We continue to be confident that as we do God's work at St Mary-le-Tower, and pray, give, and work for His Kingdom to come, God will provide all that we need. One of my favourite quotations is from the great 19th Century missionary to China, Hudson Taylor, who said (and proved in his own life and work) "God's work, done in God's way will never lack God's supply" I have seen this in the lives of so many, and in so many Churches and other Christian missions and charities over the years that I am convinced it's true. And we can trust God that it will be true for St Mary-le-Tower as well. ## **DETAILED COMMENTARV** ## **lncome** Regular planned donations as of end 2023 were £5,675 per month from 70 donors/families an increase of 15%, with 25 of those donors making use of the newly launched Parish Giving Scheme which eases administration, and helps by encouraging yearly evaluation of the amount given. Plate collections increased by 21% to £10,632 {£8,793 in 2022), although box donations were down by £2,000impacted by money stolen from the box during the year - it has now been repaired and strengthened. Contactless donations were roughly static - despite the new contactless terminal. General fund Gift aid income was up by £4,000 to over £25,000 and once again we are very grateful to Sonia Docherty for her continued work on this. We received £3,800 in one off donations to the general fund, plus a donation of £3,500 for the 2024 CD recording, and over £l,000 for the top-up shop. Concert income from sponsorship, tickets etc. was £ll,728 against expenditure of £12,529, but the overall concert funds are still in surplus by £4,191. Trees at the Tower income was at least £ll,600 (there was probably also some contactless donations that could be attributed to the increased footfall) and costs of £6,346 - a similar position to 2022. 14 ## **Financial Review continued...** I am very aware that it is impossible to list all the acts of financial generosity which we have seen through the year, with many one-off donations for specific projects, choir trips, concerts, music and so on. We are immensely grateful for each and every one of these. We also funded several new projects through the year. The Training bells project received £ 18,145 in donations not including Gift Aid, and £ 2,500 in interest free loans, allowing the project to be progressed. The Sanctuary day centre project was funded by grants from the Pickwell Foundation ( £ 1,500), and Annie Tranmer Trust ( £ l,000) the Mrs L D Rope Trust ( £ ll,674), Ipswich Borough Council ( £ 3,800) and the Church Urban Fund ( £ 5,000). A further grant of £ 5,000 from the St Lawrence Parish Hall Trust was not spent and is being repaid. We also received £ 2,055 from the winding up of the Suffolk Theology Forum for the church to fund further lecture series. Other larger grants received during the year for which we are very grateful were: - Belstead Ganzoni Charitable Trust - £12,500 towards fabric costs - Choral Foundation - £3,375 to fund occasional additional paid singers for Sunday services where volunteers are - unavailable - Choral Foundation - £l,112 for music ministry - Elizabeth Walters Trust - £2,000 to help pay for a memorable choir tour to sing weekend services at York Minister at Pentecost - Diocesan Board of Finance - £2,000 to help defray additional heating costs - Ipswich Top-up Shops - £719 to help purchase additional tables We are now also in receipt of £ l,250 each month from Framlingham College towards music ministry salary costs, as part of our ongoing partnership. ## **Expenditure** Outside one-off expenditure for Tower House development (see above), the Sanctuary Day Centre and Training Bells project etc. expenditure was flat year on year which is a good result. Utility costs for the Church and Church House increased by 28%, but the increase was covered by the very welcome Diocesan grant of £ 2,000. We have renewed a number of utility contracts in 2023 and unfortunately this will lead to increased costs in 2024 as we see the expiry of some of the excellent fixed price contracts which had been secured. Like for like music staff costs increased by 6% due to increased staff hours towards the end of the year, more than covered by the Framlingham College grant referred to above. ## _Andrew Gosden_ _Treasurer_ 15 ## **Structure, Governance and Management** PCC members who have served at any time between 1st January 2023 and 19th May 2024 are: ## Ex-officio members: lncumbent: The Reverend Tom Mumford (Chairman) The Rev’d Jo Gunn (Assistant Curate) Churchwardens: David Matthews Bridget Hanley Elected members: Mrs Sue Adair Mrs Mary Baldry Mr Jonathan de Bernhardt Wood Miss Rosemary Caudle Mr Andrew Gosden Mr Richard Hanley Mr William Harrison Mrs Joanna Jones Mrs Hilary Norman Mrs Sarah Purbrook ## **2023 Report on Proceedings of the PCC** As at 14th March 2023, the PCC will have met seven times since the last APCM which was on 11th May 2023. The PCC were led throughout the year by the Rev’d. Tom Mumford who chaired ail of the meetings with the exception of one chaired by Rev’d. Jo Gunn - Vice chair. All PCC meetings have been in person in Church House. The present PCC currently comprises of thirteen members, including the Vicar and Assistant Curate, with three of the members being Deanery and Diocesan Synod representatives. There has been good representation at the meetings from the PCC members and the meetings have been supported with regular reports and updates. There have been specific papers relating to a number of initiatives and policies. These have enabled detailed discussion and the approval of reports as well as the PCC's approval for work on Church Fabric. During the year the PCC has had to consider some very important proposals in relation to the continued Mission of SMLT, both from a financial point of view and to enable the aims of the Mission Statement to be delivered. Many of the decisions needed courage and considerable prayer to be led into the right path to take. Below is just a sample of some of the decisions that were discussed and voted on. Minutes of the PCC meetings can be found in a folder at the back of Church near the South Door. -The PCC accepted the motion that Jo Gunn would be appointed as Curate at SMLT after her ordination in July 2023. - The drawing up of a 25 year lease for Tower House was approved which would allow the Citizen's Advice Bureau to take up tenancy. This will be a valuable arrangement securing the future of Tower House, not least from a financially viable perspective. - Proposals were passed for work to start on the long awaited Song School which, with thanks to the Glory of God, has finally come to fruition. Works have commenced on the conversion of Tower House North Wing which will accommodate the choir, providing them with improved practice rooms and other essential facilities. - ln September the PCC welcomed Archdeacon Rhianna to the meeting with the aim of discerning the possibility of SMLT becoming 'Ipswich Minster'. ``` 16 ``` ## **2023 Report on Proceedings of the PCC continued...** - A partnership with Hollesley Bay was proposed by David Matthew and approved by the PCC, for men on Day Release from the Prison Horticulture team to be permitted to work on Tower Street and Tower House gardens and for the men on probation to work on the North Church Yard garden. The Tower Street Garden Project will link with the other Green Space initiatives in Ipswich Town. The following changes to members serving on the PCC have taken place since the last APCM as follows:- - Will Harrison and Jonathan de Bernhardt Wood were co-opted onto the PCC as well as Jo Gunn as an ex - officio member from July 2023 (following ordination). She will also be PCC Vice Chair. The PCC also welcomed Bridget Hanley as a member in May 2023. Bridget joined David Matthew as a church warden. - Richard Thompson stood down from office in December and we extend our thanks to him for all that he contributed during his time in office. He continues to give time to the invaluable live streaming of services. - By the time of this APCM two members of the PCC will have completed their term in office - Hilary Norman and Mary Baldry. Hilary- also an Eider of SMLT- has been a long standing, loyal member of the PCC and we will miss the wisdom that she has brought to meetings and are indebted to her for her service. Mary has also served for many years and worked tirelessly as Health and Safety Officer ensuring that all aspects were in place for all events and activities at SMLT. Her enthusiasm as well as her dry sense of humour and quality of always looking on the bright side, brought an invaluable dynamic to the PCC meetings. Both Hilary and Mary will be standing down from Office after the APCM and we thank them both for all that they have contributed to the Mission and Ministry at SMLT. ln addition to these places there are a maximum of three other vacancies on the PCC for new members. The PCC looks forward to continuing to work on behalf of the St Mary le Tower community in the year ahead, serving God and ensuring St Mary le Tower is a church for the community in Ipswich. _Rosemary Caudle_ - _March 2024_ _Hon. Secretary SMLT PCC_ ## **Electoral Roll Report** There have been a few changes during the year. Although there has been an increase of one to the Roll, there has also been a loss of one due to sadly passing away and one who has moved out of the area. We remember and pray Rest ln Peace and Rise in Glory for Barbara Norman who was on the electoral roll and, Mary Gurney and Janet Firmin, who, whilst not on the electoral roll, were members of the congregation. We also remember Junior Lawrence, Ida James, and others that we know, who have gone before us since the last annual meeting. 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Thefte erendTom W5 dÈptHanky 18 ST MARY-LE.TOWER IPSWICH Forihe yearended 31 December 2023 Inde endent Examiner's Re ortto the Trustees of St Ma -le-Tower I swlth l ￿portt0 the trustees on my examlnation of the financial 5tsetrnents of St Mary-le-Tower Ipswlch (the charity) forthe year ended 31 December 2023. Re5 onsibilities and basis of re ort the charlty's trustees you are responsible for the preparatlon of the accounts in accordance wf(h the requirements of the Charities Act 20111'the Att'l. I report In respert of myexamination of the charity's financial statements carried out under5ection 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examin8tion, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Chaiity CoMmi￿10n under section 14515llbl of the Art. Inde ndent examiner's statement Since the ch3rSty's gross income exceeded £250,000, your emamlner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Act. l confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of ICAEW. which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. I ctsnfirm that no m3terial Matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any rnateri61 re5P2Ct'. l. aciounting record5 wer& not kept In respett of the charity a required by 5ectlon 130 of the Att.- 2. the accounts do not •ccord with those records.. 3. the accounts do not comply wtth the applicable requirernents concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charitie5 IAi¢ounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 otherthan any requirementthat the accounts give a'true and fairview, whlch not a matter conSide￿d as part of an independent examin8t￿n. I have no concerns and have corne acros5 no other matter5 in connection with the e¥arnination to whKh attention should be drawn in thi5 report in order to enable a proper understanding of the 3ccountS to be reached. Slgned.. Nichola5 Farr Inilependent E¥arniner ICAEW 22 Friars Street Sudbury Suffolk COIO 2AA Dated:...................... 19 rJi 1111111111113 ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH BALANCE SHEET ASAf31 DECEMBER 2023 Notes Unrestricted Restrirted Endowmetst Ttstal 2023 Prloryear ZO72 2023 2023 2023 NoTrCurrent Assets Fixed A55ets Investrnents 13 14 553,832 105.943 553.832 474,796 1.028.628 553,832 632.905 1,186,737 270,229 98.624 98,624 659.775 270.229 CurrentA55ets Accounts Receivable Short terffl Deposits Ilnvestrnentsl Cash Prepayments 16 17 19,285 7,260 8.027 3,797 36,787 59,873 23.082 44,048 67,900 20,450 26,564 51,611 34.573 100,457 135.029 98,625 Current Llabllltles Accounts Payable Deferretl Incorne 15.343 17.139 32,481 3,400 Net Current Assets 19.230 83,318 102,548 95.22S Total Assets less current Slabllltles 679,￿5 353,547 98,624 1,131.176 1,281,962 Non-currert Liabilitles LongTerm Loan } Mort8age 2,500 2.500 Net A$5ets 679,005 351,047 98,624 1,128.676 1,281,962 Capltal Funds Endowment Funds General 98,624 98,624 90,075 Income Funds Restritted Funds LIn￿St￿tted Funds 21 351.047 351,047 679,005 1.128.676 519.837 672.050 679.005 679,005 351,047 98.624 1,281,962 Thefinancial 5taternents wete approved bythe Trustees on.... 0910412024 Trustee 21 ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH Forthe year ended 31 December 2023 Notes to the Financial Statements l. Accounting Policies Charity information St Mary-le-Tower Ipswich is a public benefit entity and a re8lStered charity in England and Wales and is unincorporated. The address of the principal office is Tower Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IPI 3BE. 1.1 Accountlng conventlon The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting 5tsndard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. I'FRS 102") and the second edition of the Charities SORP 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparin8 their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021" issued in October 2019. The charity is Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows. The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. The departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn. The financial statements are prepared in sterllng, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The financial statements have been prepared under the histroical cost convention, modified to include the revalutions of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 22 1.2 Going concern At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existance for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the goln8 conern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. 1.3 Charitable funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherence of their charitable onjectives. Restricted funds are subject to specific condition5 by donor5 a5 to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements. Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity. 1.4 Income Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amount5 can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received. Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donation5 are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation. Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known. and receipt is expected. If the amounts is not known. the legacy is treated as a contingent asset. Income from donated goods is measured at fair value of the goods unless this is impractical to measure reliably, in which case the value is derived from the cost to the donor or the estimated resale value. Donated facilities and services are recognised in the accounts when received if the value can be reliably measured. No amounts are included for the contribution of general volunteers. Income from contracts for the supply of servlces Is recognised with the delivery of the contracted service. This is classifed as unrestricted funds unless there is a contractual requirement for it to be spent of a particular purpose and returned if unspent, in which case it may be regarded as restricted. 23 1.5 Expenditure Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obli8ation can be measured reliably. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered and is classified under headings of the statement of financial activities to which rt relates. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated dlrectly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a ba515 conslstent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset's use. Expenditure on generating funds includes the cost of all fundraising activitles, events, non-charitable trading activities and the sale of donated goods. Expenditure on charitable activities inclused all costs incurred by a charity in undertaking activities that further its charitable aims for the benefit of its beneficiaries, includin8 those support costs and costs relating to the governance of the charity apportioned to charitiable activities. Other expenditure includes all expenditure that is neither related to raising funds for the charity nor part of its expenditure on charitable activities. All costs are allocated to expenditure categories reflecting the use of the resource. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs are apportioned between the artivities they contribute to on a reasonable, justifiable and consistent basis. 24 1.6 Tangible flxed assets Tangible fixed a55ets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuatlon, net of depreciation and any impariment10sses. Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following basis: Freehold land and buildings Not depreciated The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities. 1.7 Fixed asset Investments Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transactions price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/lexpenditurel for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred. 1.8 Impairment of fixed assets At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss lif anyl. 1.9 Financial instruments The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instruments, and Section 12 '0ther Financlal Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset. with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 25 1.9 Financial instruments continued... Basic financial assets Basic financial assets. which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are Initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitues a financing transartion, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Finanical assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised. Basic financial liabilities Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised c05t using the effective interest method. Derecognltion of financial liabilities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. 1.10 Employees benefits The costs of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's services are received. Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. 26 St MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH NOTESTOTHE FINANCIALSTATEMENTS FOR THEYEARENDED3J DECEMBERZ023 2 TlortatiDrvJ and Lellacles Unre$tritted Fund$ 2013 Restr¢rted Fund5 2023 TOTAI Llnrestrfcted Restrkted Fyhds Fynd$ 2022 2022 TOTAL 2023 2022 Donations and gifts Grants Receivab 132,609 2.486 135.095 d5.068 61,513 106.581 177,677 63,998 24L676 113.953 250 21,590 35,453 57,043 135,543 35.703 171.246 114.203 3 Cha¥itableActl¥ltles Llnrestricted F¥nds 2023 Restrlcted Fund$ 2023 CharÉtable In¢ome 20Z3 Unre$trKted Restri¢ted Funds Fvnds 2022 20ZZ Charitable Income 2022 Choir TripsandTours Conctrt Income Fee5 forWeddln8s and Funerals FundraisinÈ- Other Income-other Hlre of Church Rental Income- Tower House Tower House Tenants Commrt¢ee Payments Saleof CDS Trees atthe Tower IncomE Rental kncome- Church House 8,490 9,178 2,750 1,050 2,550 9,540 11.728 2,750 20 3.669 1.530 18,638 &454 203 11,643 250 11180 7.736 19,916 3,669 1,530 18.638 8,454 203 11,643 2,338 29,174 2,338 29,174 960 IL.&4 960 IL654 64,804 3,8 56.306 7.736 64,Q42 4 Investments ljnrestricted Funds Restrthd Funds 2021 TOTAL Iltyre5trirted Re5trthd Funds Fund5 20ZZ 2022 TOTAI 2023 20Z3 20Z2 Incfftfrom listed investment5 Rental Ineome Church House 3,615 14.443 18,057 Z,299 3,446 276 17,692 19,991 3,446 276 687 4,302 14,929 19,231 6,021 17,S92 23,713 S Other Income Llnrestrieted Funds Z023 Restricted Funds 2023 TOTAL Un￿$￿¢ted Restri¢ied Funds Funds 2022 Z02Z TOTAL 2023 2022 orher Income Car Pèrk Fees Insurance Refundlcialm L950 541 967 1917 $41 56 56 6.745 6,801 6,745 6,801 2.491 967 3,458 27 STMARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH NOTESTQTHE FINANCIALSTATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED31 DECEMBER2023 6 CharitsbleA¢ii*Jltles Unrestrrtted Funds 2023 Restri¢ted Fund5 2025 TOTAL TOTAL 2023 2011 Children's Mlnistry Church BuildingWork5 Church House- buildingworks Church House- Insurante Church House- Maintenance Church House- MaInt￿aN¢e ClÈaninE Church House- Utilit￿5 371 371 704 14,260 L138 13,121 304 651 3,247 2,053 28,040 13,099 936 419 55,757 61,441 203 9,600 4.265 2,710 651 3,247 2,053 9,829 8,977 374 3626 2749 Church Music Expense5 Concert Expenses Fundiai5ffj8Costs 18,211 4,122 562 419 38,276 31630 2884 78230 58243 Music Ststtcosts Parish Share P?rish Trainlngand Mission Sanctuary Daycentre Rentsi Costs Top-up Shop Tower House- General Expenses Tower House- Insuranc* Tower House- Maintenance and Cleanin8 Tower House- rates Tower House- utylities TowerHou5e- Tenant5 Committee Payments Tower House Development- professional Fees Tower House Inrerbr and exterlor decorafjon Tower House major repairs TreesattheTower 17,480 61,441 173 2,119 480 4,335 3,068 2,14S 2,230 3834 33dl 2S4 3.322 16,343 8,023 16.343 8,023 13.602 17,720 171,840 6.346 439,589 18231 13.60Z 17.720 171.840 16455 6,346 146,2a8 5199 225062 293,351 7 Ra151w Funds Fundr6Isln8Costs 838 838 838 8a8 S,813 5.813 Support Costs 7,597 9,433 2.144 1205 Lg08 7.597 20.104 2,304 1788 L908 4S44 10893 5719 Church repairsand maintenance Cler6yand Staff Expenses Equipment Finance Charges Govern3nce Costs Insurance Other Church EKpEnses Printin£, Stationery and Posta6e staff Costs 10,671 160 $83 105 9.745 5,286 3,846 18.589 60,7411 9,745 13.652 3.878 28.203 90.180 93SYJ 1219 3119 10148 45.Z37 8,366 42 9,614 Z9.436 Bb Gowemart¢e Costs Governance aad Payroll Costs 1538 1538 12612 28 STMARV-iE-TOWER IPSWICH NOTESTOTHE FINANCIALSTATEMENTS FOR THE YEARENDED31 DECEMBER2023 9 Trustees None of the trustees lor any personsconnected wfth them) receNed any renumerntK)n or bènefits from the charity during the year 10 EmplJyee$ The avera8e rnonthwnumber ofemployees dvrin8theyear was 2023 Number 2022 flumber EmploymentC05ts 2023 £ 2022£ Wages and SaLiries 79,727 93.957 Therewere no employees whose annual renumeration was whjrethan £60,000 11 other CD Production Costs 29 ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH NOTESTOTHE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 13 Tangible Fixed Assets Freohold Land and Building5 C05t at l January 2023 553,832 At 31 December 2023 553,832 CarryingAmount At 31 December 2023 553,832 At 31 December 2022 553.832 14 Flxed asset Investments LSsted Investment5 Cost or valuation At l January 2023 Additions Valuatlon Changes Disposals 632,905 41,061 See Note 12 1199,1701 At 31 December 2023 474.796 Carrylng Amount At 31 December 2023 474,796 At 31 December 2022 632,905 Unrestricted Restricted Endowment 105,943 270.229 98.624 474.796 15 Flnanclal Instruments 2023 2022 carryi￿ amount ¢>f financFal assets Instruments measured at fair value through profft or loss 518.844 659 469 16 Debtors Amounts falling due wlthin oneyear.. 1023 2022 Trade Debtors Other Debtor5 14.036 9,046 23,082 19,565 885 20,450 31 ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER2023 17 Current a55et investments 2023 2022 S￿)rt-terM deposlts 44,048 26,564 18 Creditors: arnount$fallinE due wSthln one year 2023 2022 Trade creditors Accruals and deferred incoirne 30,285 2.196 32,481 1.002 2,398 3.400 19 Retirement benefrt schemes The charity operates a deflned contribution pension scheme for all quallfylng ern￿O¥ee5. The assets of the scheme are held Separate￿frOM those of the charlty in an independentfyadministe￿d fund. 20 Endowmènt Funds Endowment funds represent assets which rnust be held permanently by the charity. Income arising on the endowment funds can be used in accordance with the objerts of the charity and is included as Un￿strICted Sncome. Anycapital gains or losses arising on the a55ets fomi part of the fund. Balance at l Jan 2022 Revaluatlon gains and losses Revaluatlon Eains and losses Balan¢¢ at 31 De¢ Z023 Balance at l Jan 2023 Harriet Bacon Trust Endowment Choir Mernorial Endowtnent Priory Memorial (Church House) Trust Endowment 50,950 7,976 43,943 102,869 16,3371 19921 15,4651 112,7941 44.613 6,984 38,478 90.075 4,234 663 3.652 8.549 48.847 7.647 42.130 98.624 32 l O r4 r4 ?E2 ST MARY-LE-TOWER IPSWICH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR 7HE YEARENDED 310ECEM8ER2023 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Fund5 Funds Funds 2023 2023 2023 Total Total 2023 2022 Fund balances at 31 December 2023 are represented by Tangible assets Investments CUr￿nt assetsllLiabilities1 553,832 105.943 19,230 679.￿5 553,832 474,796 100,048 1,128,676 553,832 632,905 95.225 1.281,962 270.229 80,818 351,047 98,624 98,624