## The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St. Mary’s Portchester Charity Registration Number 1130090 ## 2025 Reports and Accounts **The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St. Mary’s Portchester** Charity Registration Number 1130090 ## **2025 REPORT AND ACCOUNTS** ## **Meeting for the election of Churchwardens and Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM)** ## **Tuesday 26[th] May 2026, 7.00pm** ## **Agenda** _Those residents in the parish or on the Electoral Roll of the church may attend part A of the meeting. Only those on the Electoral Roll may attend part B._ 1. Opening Prayer 2. Welcome and Apologies 3. Presentation of Clerk and Tellers ## **PART A - ANNUAL MEETING OF THE PARISH** - Minutes of the Vestry meeting of 2025 - Matters arising - Election of Churchwardens: _2 vacancies: Nominated: Denise Simmons & Ian Parker_ 1. Portchester Parish Hall Accounts 2. Any other business ## **PART B - ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING (APCM)** - Minutes of the 2025 Annual Parochial Church Meeting - Matters arising - Presentation of the Electoral Roll - Election of members to the Parochial Church Council: _PCC Members 7 vacancies: Nominations: Ray Norman, Chris Hayes, Elaine Johnson, Mark Wood, Ashley Cowan & Scott Brodrick_ 1. Election of members to the Deanery Synod: _Nominated: Steve Oliver, Gerry Anderson & Peter Bradley_ 2. Appointment of External Auditor 3. Financial Accounts 4. Reports **2 |** P a g e (a) Vicar’s general church report (b) PCC (c) Diocesan Synod (d) Deanery Synod (e) Safeguarding (f) Fabric (g) Sound and Technical Team (h) Children, Youth & Families Ministry (i) Seniors’ Ministry (j) Outreach (k) Tea Room (l) Churchyard (m) Men’s Breakfasts (n) Men’s Dinners (o) Friday Friends (p) Choir & LMS Music Group (q) Café Church (r) Altar Servers & Welcomers (s) Tea & Company (t) Concerts, Events & Social Team 5. Any other business (to be presented to the Chairman prior to the meeting) 6. Vote of thanks 7. Conclusion **3 |** P a g e ## **ANNUAL REPORT – 2025 PORTCHESTER PARISH HALL REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 249672** ## **AIM** The purpose of the charitable trust is to provide a well-maintained building for use by the people of Portchester for religious purposes and use by the community in accordance with the trust deed dated 1907 and the sub-joined deed dated 1915. The assets of the trust are vested in the Trustees, for the time being, of the charitable trust. ## **GOVERNANCE** The trust is governed by the Trustees for the time being in accordance with the purposes of the trust set out in the trust deed. The trustees are an autonomous body whose prime duty is to fulfil the purpose of the trust deed. The current Trustees can seek advice where necessary from the Charity Commission to ensure their actions are in accord with the current charity law and the trust deed. ## **TRUSTEES** The Trustees for 2025 were as follows: - Revd Ian Meredith Vicar Mrs Denise Simmons Church Warden Mr Ian Parker Church Warden Karen Fryatt Fareham Borough Council Paul Woodman Fareham Borough Council Mr Nick Walker Co-optee Mrs Elaine Emery Co-optee Mrs Sue Walker Co-optee ## **HOW THE TRUSTEES OPERATE** The Trustees have an annual obligation to present the accounts at the Vestry meeting of St Mary’s church. The Vestry meeting was discontinued by the Church of England in 1927, but St Mary’s Annual Parochial Church Meeting is structured in two parts. The first part allows the Parish Hall accounts to be presented as required by the trust deed. ## **REVIEW OF THE YEAR** 2025 has again a busy year for the hall. There has been the introduction of a variety of new regular groups to the building and irregular bookings are steady. We are booked 365 days of the year. Works this year include complete redecoration inside, and the outside railings and noticeboard overhauled and painted. Bench in the open space area had new wooden slates and painted. Disabled toilet upgraded to new standard requirements i.e. addition of colour support handles etc and new floor laid. Main hall floor sanded and reoiled. Stage curtains dry cleaned. New plate warmer installed in the kitchen. **4 |** P a g e ## **OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE** The Trustees will continue to maintain the Hall to a high standard and have a programme of improvements for 2026/7. All monies that have been placed in the COIF are ring fenced for use for repairs and renewals for the Hall, as required. ## **POLICIES ON RISK** Trustees have continued to fully insure the building and hold public liability insurance and comply with all health and safety requirements. ## **STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS FOR THE PORTCHESTER PARISH HALL for 2025** **5 |** P a g e **Minutes of APCM meetings held in St. Mary’s Church Portchester on Tuesday 20[th] May 2025** ## **1. OPENING PRAYER AND WORSHIP** Rev Dr Ian Meredith welcomed everyone to the meetings of the Parish and the Congregation of St Mary’s Portchester. He thanked so many people for making the effort to attend the church’s annual business meeting. Rev Ian then opened the meeting with prayer. ## **2.APOLOGIES** Jackie Mitchell stated that the following had submitted apologies. Sir Michael Moore Lady Penny Moore Dawn Traer Steve Traer Tony Gillam Liz Gillam Liz Nice Richard Nice Rachel Standen Pauline Gennings John Stringer Ian Chandler Elaine Dekany Mollie Sambeth Maggie Hiscock Carol Gay Bridget Cowan Daniel Cowan Barbara Howe Sue Oliver Bob Rouse Neil Young Sally Young Shirley Lloyd ## **3.PRESENTATION OF CLERK AND TELLERS** Clerk – Rev Ian Meredith introduced Jackie as clerk. Tellers were not required as there were no elections tonight . **6 |** P a g e ## **ANNUAL PARISH MEETING** The first part of the meeting was open to any resident of the village of Portchester; the second part of the meeting is only for those listed on the church Electoral Roll. ## **4.MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING OF 2024** – tabled Portchester Parish Hall accounts were presented; no questions were forthcoming regarding these. The minutes from APCM held Tuesday 21st May 2024 were presented and accepted. Proposed Neil Sherry Seconded Terry Gautrey As there were no objections, the minutes were accepted. ## **5.MATTERS ARISING** – none were raised. ## **6.ELECTION OF CHURCH WARDENS** Rev Ian explained that 2 Churchwardens are allowed for each parish, who are elected on an annual basis. We have received 2 nominations, both proposed and seconded: Denise Simmons (proposed by Sylvia Hunns, seconded by Richard Clark) and Ian Parker (proposed by Ray Norman and seconded by Keith Phillips). As there were no other nominations, Rev Ian declared Denise and Ian elected as Churchwardens for the Parish of Portchester for the next year and thanked them for their service. Rev Ian also thanked Eric Standen for his service as Churchwarden over the past couple of years. A round of applause followed. ## **7.PORTCHESTER PARISH HALL ACCOUNTS** – tabled The annual report and accounts of Portchester Parish Hall were presented as required by the 1907 Trust Deed. They are shown on pages 4 and 5 of the booklet and were noted and adopted as correct. No questions were raised. This meeting is held, and the parish are presented with the Parish Hall accounts. It is held historically as the annual meeting was held in the Parish Hall, but we are no longer the majority trustees of the Parish Hall. Rev Ian thanked Sue Walker, Booking Clerk, for attending, and for her work in running and maintaining the Parish Hall. ## **8.AOB FOR THE PARISH OF PORTCHESTER** – none. At this point, anyone not on the church Electoral Roll was invited to leave. (Anyone on the Electoral Roll is the nearest we have to church membership and gives you the ability to vote at the meeting.) The meeting was then closed. **7 |** P a g e _NOTE: These minutes have been scrutinised by the PCC. The minutes are believed to be a true record of the meeting and are commended to the APCM 2026 for their acceptance._ ## **B. ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING** ## **MINUTES OF THE 2024 ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING** The minutes were accepted as a true record of the meeting held on. Proposed: Ray Norman Seconded: Barbara Andrews ## **MATTERS ARISING** - none ## **PRESENTATION OF ELECTORAL ROLL** Denise Simmons, Electoral Officer, stated that last year there were 300 on the Electoral Roll. Every 6 years, the Electoral Roll must be completely renewed, and she was pleased to report that we have 238 people confirmed on the list this year, which is actually a more realistic figure, truly reflecting the numbers in our congregation (as several names on the old list were no longer attending or had moved away, etc). And we will continue to grow! She added that 67 people (28% of the Electoral Roll) live outside of the parish, so are voting with their feet to come to us. ## **ELECTION OF MEMBERS TO PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** Denise stated that there were 5 vacancies and 4 nominations for the PCC: Matthew Crosby (proposed by Steve Oliver, seconded by Valerie Agar); Jennifer Olding (proposed by Eric Standen, seconded by Holly Brodrick); Eric Standen (proposed by Chris Hayes, seconded by Steve Oliver); and Steve Traer (proposed by Steve Oliver, seconded by Chris Hayes). Matthew and Jennifer had attended the last PCC meeting as observers, and Rev Ian is delighted that they will be joining the PCC as representatives of the 11.30am service which has been under-represented until now. He also stated the importance of having younger voices on the PCC. Regarding the remaining vacancy, Rev Ian invited anyone with an interest in the PCC to let him know. They could then be co-opted to the PCC for a year, to see what it is all about – and then maybe stand for election in their own right. ## **ELECTION OF MEMBERS TO DEANERY SYNOD** Rev Ian stated that Steve Oliver, Gerry Anderson and Peter Bradley will continue as our Deanery Synod representatives, as there were no other nominations. **8 |** P a g e ## **APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINER** Steve Oliver, Treasurer, advised that he recommends we continue with KSL Accountants, Spur Road, Cosham, as our independent examiner. There were no other nominations, so KSL Accountants were proposed and accepted. Proposed: Neil Sherry Seconded: Ian Parker ## **FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS** The Financial Accounts and a detailed report by the Treasurer, Steve Oliver, were included in the APCM Report and Accounts which had been previously circulated to those on the Electoral Roll via email, with printed copies also available. Steve explained that he had included 3 years of accounts for better comparison of trends in income/expenditure and any anomalies. He explained that last year’s deficit of £30k was partly due to the west wall works and platform/ crossover build, but these represent investment in the future. He hopes we will break even this year – partly by not replacing our Youth Worker, selling items which are surplus to requirements, and applying for grants. Rev Ian also advised that a couple of generous legacies are in the pipeline and then invited any questions to the Treasurer from the audience (none had been submitted prior to the meeting). - **Susan Wilson** questioned the cost of Christmas trees. Steve explained that the trees are high quality and reusable. Both were purchased at half price in the January sales, and one parishioner then donated the cost of one of them. She also queried the cost of the new sit-on lawnmower. Steve explained that this was needed for the paddock, and Ray Norman (Fabric team) stated that this is a very large area to maintain. The previous mower had been repaired (with the cost covered by a parishioner) but was now beyond further repair and a new one was needed. Another member of the congregation now maintains the paddock on a voluntary basis, but he needs a good mower to do it, and this represents an investment for the future. - **Neil Sherry** then raised the issue of giving (at church services in particular), stating that those who use the church should be prepared to pay for it. He suggested that Churchwardens could remind the congregation at the start of each service about the need for giving and the ease of using the Parish Giving Scheme and/or about the Donation Station. He also requested that the Accounts are right-hand justified, as per accounting convention, in future. - **David Cordner** requested clarification ref the 10% Fund (Charitable Giving). Rev Ian explained that this represents 10% of our offerings taken up at services. - **Judith Williams** asked that the organist fees reflect the fact that some costs (e.g. playing the organ at weddings and funerals) are covered by families who book the services, i.e. she is not paid over £7k directly out of church parish funds **9 |** P a g e because the families pay the parish, and then the church pays her. Steve and Judith to discuss. - **Will Yates** questioned the income from weddings which has halved since 2022 – was this due to fewer weddings or a reduction in wedding fees? Steve explained that fees are set by the Church of England and have not reduced, but the high number of weddings in 2022 was due to the backlog which built up during Covid. There are 22 weddings booked for this year, which is a more accurate number. However, there is also a general trend of people using other venues for weddings and funerals (e.g. weddings in hotels, and funerals at crematoriums), so the Deanery is looking at a campaign to help reverse this. - **Amy Yates** asked about adding a gift-aid facility on the Donation Station. Peter Bradley said the software had not allowed this, but he would pursue with the supplier whether it was now an option. Steve reiterated that the Parish Giving Scheme is the best way to give to the church, but Amy stated that there was not an option to change the payment date and this did not work for them. Chris Hayes pointed out that it is possible to sign up via My Church Suite and this has an option to change the date. - **Joe Snowden** mentioned about claiming Gift Aid. Rev Ian explained that we received 10k via Gift Aid last year – Steve claims this manually, once a quarter. Denise reminded everyone that the Parish Giving Scheme is very efficient for Gift Aid (it happens automatically, so the Treasurer doesn’t have to claim) and generated £13k last year. _NOTE: These minutes have been scrutinised by the PCC. The minutes are believed to be a true record of the meeting and are commended to the APCM 2026 for their acceptance._ ## **Vicar’s Annual Report for 2025** The Parochial Church Council (PCC) presents its report for the year ended 31st December 2025 Dear Members and Friends, you hold in your hands or are reading on your screen the report of our activities for 2025. This format marks a change, as to save paper (and do our bit for the environment) as well as using technology, the report is being sent out by e-mail. You can either read it on screen, print it out in its entirely, or print only the balance sheet, or whatever interests you. We will of course be making a few paper copies for those who still require this. The report is in readiness for our APCM (Annual Parochial Church Meeting) which is the AGM of the church, on Tuesday 26th May 2026, which I hope as many as possible will attend. **10 |** P a g e This is part of our stewardship and accountability, firstly to God – have we used the gifts and talents he has given us, to the best of our ability? Have we been prudent and wise with the finances, as well as being generous and equipping a well-resourced church? Secondly, our accountability to you as a congregation, or rather to each other, as it’s not a case of ‘us and them’ but all of us together. Of greatest interest is usually the financial accounts, which have been well kept by Steve Oliver. Our budget is massive, probably getting near to a middle-sized company (we now pay VAT on the Tea Room), and this is also reflected in the number of staff we now employ. We on the PCC appreciate the simpler form the accounts are now presented in, which makes it easier for us non-accountants to understand. I am pleased to say that financially in 2025 our income covered our expenditure with a ‘profit’ of £14,575. This was in many ways thanks to the Churchland’s Charity who gave us over £30,000 towards building repairs. Without this we would have been in great deficit again. We are as ever reliant on the Tea Room for all the extra things we provide, as well as staff wages. We, along with all the other churches of Fareham Deanery have been able to pay our parish share to the full (the largest expenditure). The main spiritual health of the church, however, is reflected in the regular giving from our members. I’m pleased that it has exceeded last year’s figure, but (I have no idea how much anyone gives) the Treasurer has hinted that most of the giving comes from a small amount of people, while most give little. With building projects nearing their fruition, we are going to have to use our funds soon as well as do some fund-raising, but we need the giving to be generous to sustain all that we do week by week. If you have any questions about the finances, you are welcome to bring them up at the meeting, but like PM’s Question Time, you are more likely to get an accurate explanation if you can let our Treasurer know in advance, as he might need to do some digging to get that answer for you. At the APCM, two Churchwardens are elected every year. Although they may serve for longer, their actual election must be an annual vote. If only two candidates are proposed, in most cases they stand elected without a vote. There are two exceptions: the Vicar may exercise a veto and say that he is unable to work with one of them. Secondly, a new rule has been introduced to allow a vote anyway, if requested by any member. This is to stop any ‘unsuitable’ people simply walking into the role just because there are not enough candidates. The candidate would require over 50% in favour. There are other ministries – probably the most important aspects – worship services, outreach and house groups which are not reported on. Worship has to be experienced, the fruits of outreach have to be seen, and we are working on revising our house group and teaching programme. If anyone or group feels left out, please send us a report. In thankfulness for all that has gone on before, and in anticipation of what is to come, I wish you all a successful and harmonious APCM. **11 |** P a g e ## **Vicar’s General Church Report for 2025** ## **January** A new initiative started this month by Sue Oliver with the start of the Ladies Breakfast. This continued to be held on the first Saturday of the month with a variety of speakers. This month we also held our first course at the Hub on “The Celtic Way” an exploration of Christianity in ancient Britain. Inspired by this course, a number of members have organised a pilgrimage holiday to the northeast of England in 2026. We began a good relationship with the Sisters of Bethany at Southsea where our clergy take services on the first and second Saturdays of the month. The sisters attend our evening services and others. ## **February** Musical concerts began this month with the Hampshire Recorder Symphonia. The February course at the Hub was “The Drama of Scripture: Finding our place in the biblical story.” ## **March** The Salvation Army Solent Fellowship Band gave us a concert. The Lent Quiet Day was held at Hayling Island and Lent evening services were based on “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by CS Lewis which began by the showing of the film. A very successful International Food Evening was held with over 18 nations represented. A families event was held at the Parish Hall, organised by Jenny Olding and which drew together several church families. Repair work was completed on the west wall. The Good News Fellowship closed their services, and most of the remaining members joined us at St Mary’s. ## **April** Tanya Simpson stepped down as Youth and Children’s Worker, and Amy Sparks was appointed as our new Children’s Worker. The post of Youth Worker has been held in abeyance. Holy Week and Easter services were held and several members were confirmed at the cathedral on Easter eve. ## **May** This month we held a course at the Hub: “Christian worship through the ages” led by Eric Standen. The D-Day anniversary service was held which seems to be becoming an annual event, although given the ages of the veterans, this may not be for much longer. A Tea Party was held on the Monday organised by Richard and Margaret Andrews. The APCM saw the election of Ian Parker as a Churchwarden and Jennie Olding and Matt Crosby as new members of the PCC. This year was the “revision of the roll” which saw around 50 members removed from the roll – some by death, others by moving away but most through not renewing their membership. A few men went on pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral. Christine Bennett gave a concert at the church and the Rogationtide prayer walk went around the southern border. **12 |** P a g e ## **June** We hosted members of Fareham Deanery for a “Prayer & Pizza” event at the church. “Churches Together in Portchester” changed its name to “Christians Together in Portchester”. Jonathan Pragg a classical guitarist put on a concert. After having served one year as Deacon, our Curate, Rev Elizabeth was ordained as a Priest at the cathedral. Amy Yates was appointed as the new youth leader. A Youth Alpha was started. A line dance was held in the parish hall. ## **July** High Tide the combined youth groups in the diocese, held their July event at St Mary’s. Angelina Kopyrina, a Russian pianist held a concert. In July we hosted a concert for the local Community Choir, but the lack of toilets for such large numbers has precluded them from coming back. ## **August** A special service was held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ-Day. The church was full with the Mayor and local dignitaries in attendance. An art exhibition and auction of the late Linda Clifford’s work was held to raise money for the church. ## **September** New courses started this month including the Alpha Course, and a Marriage Course. This month I was installed as an Honorary Canon of Portsmouth Cathedral, a great honour for myself and the church. The harvest celebrations were well attended. Leigh Williams was appointed as PCC Secretary. ## **October** Our speaker at the All Together Service at the school was Canon Andrew White, “The Vicar of Baghdad.” ## **November** A “Big Quiz” was held to raise money for Tearfund, and also the annual fireworks display to raise money to pay for our young people to attend the High Tide summer camp. The Christmas Fayre raised £3,000 similar to last year. Two members were confirmed at the cathedral. Steve Oliver, our Treasurer was appointed Lay Chair of Fareham Deanery Synod. ## **December** The theme of our Christmas carol services was “The Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens with special readings from John McClaverty. A new book entitled “An Incredible Belief” was launched which was a collection of sermons and talks on the Nicene Creed. The numbers attending the Christmas was the largest for the past few years, helped by the number of new services with schools and WI friends holding their services at St Mary’s. 17 hampers were given out. **The Church magazine** , “St Mary’s News” was printed most months. We send around 400 by e-mail, which of course saves a lot of money on paper and postage. However, we still print 100 of these mainly for visitors or those not on e-mail. **13 |** P a g e **Died.** This year we continue to lose approximately one member each month from death: Mervyn Harfield, Margaret Ayling, Doug Crane, Janet Osler, Felicity Mellows, Dorothy Whittingham, Rev James Hair, Helen Featherstone, Ellis Wheatley and Janet Lynn. Some of these were active in the church just up to weeks before their death. **Numbers.** Numbers attending the services are fairly static. We continue to be blessed by new people turning up. Some disappear again after a few weeks or months, and we are sad that we could not help them to find what they were looking for. The total attending all our weekly services still makes us one of the larger congregations in the diocese. **Staff and volunteers** . We continue to be served by an excellent team. It is due to them that we are able to put on so many services and activities. We continue to give away 10% of our offerings, and I believe that the Lord will supply all our own needs. 2025 was my 12[th] year among you, and I continue to be very blessed, loved and supported. ## **Diocesan Synod Report** Diocesan Synod met three times this year. One of our Deanery Reps Gerry Anderson is a Deanery Elected representative to the Diocesan Synod so St. Mary’s are very grateful that we have Gerry serving God & the people of St. Mary’s on the PCC, the Deanery & the Diocesan Synod Detail Diocesan Synod meeting reports can be located on the Diocesan website. The topics discussed at the three Synods in 2025 included 1. The appointment of the Suffragan Bishop 2. The Diocese Net Zero Conference 3. The Diocese external safeguarding audit 4. The outcomes from the General Synod Conference and looking towards the 2026 General Synod 5. The ongoing discussions surrounding Living in Love & Faith 6. The City of Portsmouth being identified as a Sanctuary City 7. The 2026 budget and Parish Share contributions 8. The preparations for the 100[th] anniversary of the Portsmouth Diocese in 2027 ## **Deanery Synod Report** The Fareham Deanery synod representatives for St Mary’s in 2025 were Peter Bradley, Gerry Anderson and Steve Oliver There were 2 formal meetings of the Deanery Synod, 13th February at Holy Trinity Church Fareham and 13[th] November at St John the Evangelist in Fareham- all chaired by Revd Richard England (Area Dean). **14 |** P a g e The other usual June Deanery Synod was replaced by a Deanery walk of prayer on 3[rd] June 2025 that concluded at St. Mary’s Church with an evening of Prayer & Pizza. A similar event is planned for 2026 The main theme for agenda items throughout the year included the Deanery Plan and the review of the Parish Share. The Strategic Review plan was discussed along with how the churches in the Deanery can impact the local communities they each represent. In November 2025 Steve Oliver our Church Treasurer and Deanery Rep was elected as the Deanery Lay Chair along with Rev. Amy Adeniran who was installed by the Archdeacon as Assistant Area Dean. ## **Safeguarding** Steve Oliver the Church Operations Manager continues to do the PSO role as he continues to recognise the importance of safeguarding with regard to the overall compliance of the church which he is responsible (health and safety etc). Steve Oliver is supported by a Deputy PSO and a Safeguarding Administrator. The importance of safeguarding within the parish continues to be recognised by the PCC and continues to be an item on the agenda to be discussed at PCC meetings. ## **Fabric** We on the fabric team consider it to be a great honour to oversee the day-to-day maintenance of our beautiful historic building; I would at this time like to thank all the members of the team and volunteers for all their hard work this year. Over the past year we have continued with all of the normal annual maintenance issues as an example, - Inspection of lightning conductor - P.A.T. Testing - Repair and maintenance of our lighting system - Repairs of the wall surrounding our churchyard - Cleaning and maintenance of drains both surface and waste - Carry out any work identified after the recent Quinquennial Inspection And many other routine day-to-day maintenance issues. I'm pleased to say the fruit trees which we planted 2 years ago in the Paddock in the main are doing well, all but one have survived and we look forward to harvesting fruit in the next year or so. During the winter of 2025 a large bay Laurel tree was blown down in the Paddock, last summer we cut up the tree and use the tree and branches in the ongoing construction of our natural fencing along the northern border of the Paddock. **15 |** P a g e As I'm sure you are all aware a large amount of plaster came down at the west wall of the church which meant we had to have scaffolding erected so repairs could be undertaken, and it was complete just in time for the weddings last year. Unfortunately, later last year similar action had to be taken at the east end of the naive, I am pleased to say that work was completed successfully in the autumn. Last year Ellis Electrical were engaged to carry out our 5 yearly electrical inspection and as a result they carried out any upgrades or repairs as necessary. Ellis Electrical also agreed to undertake our annual P.A.T. Testing. Over the past year we have continued to engage with new technology such as drone surveys of the church building. There are many unseen maintenance issues throughout the year, and we are pleased to carry them out both for our Lord and for you. ## **Sound and Technical Team** Over the past year we have endeavoured to continue to improve both sound and visual aids within the church, week to week we find more uses for our new screen which we installed in 2023 as well as regular worship we also use it for movie nights, social events and visual reflections for funerals. We have purchased a new mixing desk to be used for community events and outdoor services, such as the Portchester Remembers service in the precinct etc, thanks to a grant from Roger Price our Hampshire County Councillor. We continue to film many different types of Church services throughout the year enabling those people who are unable to get to church through ill health or away on holiday to still enjoy and take part in our services. In 2026 we are hoping to improve our capabilities to be able to live stream Services from the church, this is not currently possible as our internet connection is too slow to stream services. We continue to look for new improved software to aid our weekly worship such as presenter a program that we have used in the presentation for the 11.30 service; we will also be looking into a new workstation for the ever-growing equipment required for filming & presenting of services etc If you feel you may be able to contribute to our technical team, please speak to one of the team and we will be very pleased to tell you all about the work we do week to week and we are always looking for new members. **16 |** P a g e ## **Children & Families Ministry** ## **Junior Church** Running 11.30 every week with various themes, crafts, activities and media. 9.30 junior church running from September for the first two Sundays of the month. Outcomes: children learn about Jesus, Christian values, the bible and how they can know Jesus through prayer, worship and His word. Children make things, play together and build relationships. ## **St Mary's Lambs** Runs Wednesday morning in church each week during term time. We start with singing and then a story with a different theme each week, followed by playtime and more singing to finish. We often have crafts or activities for the children to take part in which we link to our story or theme if we can. We gave out advent calendars at Christmas and nativity story books. During the summer we met outside each Wednesday morning informally. Outcomes: Babies, toddlers and carers (parents, grandparents, childminders, family) enjoy their time together at St Mary's, children learn the routine of the group and can develop other motor skills such as mark making, drawing, cutting, glueing and sticking. We intentionally speak with each grown-up every week in order to build and develop relationships and to provide a space for us to listen to them and hear about their week and any challenges they may be having. ## **Cafe Church** Held on the third Sunday of the month in 2025 though we have now stopped and are trialling the third Sunday special. We started each session with a talk followed by craft activities, games and a meal. Outcomes: family fellowship, learning about Jesus, children building relationships. ## **Holiday Clubs** We run this at the Scout hut at Easter and in Summer over 2 or 3 afternoons. We have a themed programme each time using Bible stories or a DVD. The children play outside with sports equipment and play team games. Inside we have a rotation of craft activities and games. We provide squash, biscuits and fruit for the children. At Easter the children go home with an Easter egg from the Real Easter Egg co which includes an Easter story booklet. Outcomes: children learning about Jesus and having time to play and take part in things they might not normally get a chance to. Children experience a lot of positive encouragement from the team and we join in with their games and sports. This runs at no cost to families so we get a bit more engagement with people that we might not normally see. ## **Light Party** Event on 31st October with music, lights, tables of activities, games, and food. Outcomes: This gives us the chance to talk about Jesus as the light of the world, to church families but also to the wider community. Building fun church memories for **17 |** P a g e children. Again, there is no cost so there is more engagement from the wider community. ## **Schools Work** Attending local primary schools to deliver assemblies 4 x per year. Themes are set by Christmas, Easter, Lent and Harvest. Schools also attended at St Mary's for different shows and services. Outcomes: Teaching children Christian beliefs as part of, and to enhance school's collective worship policies. Children and their families attending St Mary's build familiarity with the local church. ## **Alpha** There have been two Alpha courses over the past year: one in the Autumn term and one which ran from January until Easter. We were blessed in both by great teams who hosted groups and guests, and excellent meals were provided too. Thank you also to those involved in cooking, preparing and clearing up and doing the administration. In the autumn there were 10 people who signed up, including some from other churches, and the more recent course started with 12 people. Those concerned have grown in their faith, and a number have made commitments to follow Jesus – one was recently baptised. We pray that all will continue to be touched by the Holy Spirit and will continue to grow in knowing the Lord. Some have now joined house-groups and some from the earlier course helped in the running of the second one. We look forward to running another Alpha course in the autumn. Carol Gay, Eric Standen, Jeff & Pauline Gennings ## **Seniors Ministry** Our Seniors Ministry Pastoral Team led by Sue Oliver who is also an Anna Chaplain, visit those in our congregation who live alone or are residents in the various care homes in the Parish and the wider community. The team is made up with around eight dedicated volunteers in the Pastoral Team to enable people in need within our parish to be visited or even just to receive a phone call or greetings card. Events like The Different Day and the annual summer afternoon tea ensure that the seniors in our church enjoy a time together. The Pastoral team also distributed 17 hampers at Christmas to those in our parish who would otherwise spend Christmas alone. **18 |** P a g e ## **Tearoom** Since the 1980s St. Mary’s has had an active tearoom that sells teas, coffees, cakes, pies & snacks to the congregation & the wider community 7 days a week 52 weeks a year. All profits from sales are used to support St. Mary’s Church. The Tearoom has a full time Catering Manager (Ron Prior) ably assisted by Dillon Simpson and over 20 volunteers who give up their spare time to support this valuable Christian resource and vital financial support for the church. The tearoom which was set up as a limited company in 2023 is managed by two Directors namely Ian Parker & Steve Oliver who report monthly to the PCC with financial and operational matters. ## **Churchyard** The churchyard is maintained by the Sexton; Ian Parker with assistance from Steve and Dawn Traer who have taken on responsibility for the Rose Garden located behind the Labyrinth, Fareham Borough Council who are responsible for cutting the grass. A couple of local people who don’t attend the church continue to maintain the churchyard gardens and the Church is very grateful to these two very kind people for making these gardens look so nice, colourful and weed free! Steve and Dawn continue to ensure the rose garden is kept well maintained and will plant any roses requested to be planted in memory of loved ones. This often involves obtaining an engraved plaque and wooden stake. A number of families also requested that their loved ones’ ashes be buried in the church graveyard during the year ## **Men’s Breakfasts** Around twenty men meet each month for 10 months of the year on the second Saturday of the month for breakfast and fellowship followed by a range of speakers and topics with a Christian or religious theme. ## **Ladies Breakfasts** A new venture was launched by Sue Oliver and her team of helpers to provide a monthly breakfast meeting on the first Saturday of the month which is held in the Parish Hall. Around twenty ladies attend and like the men have had a variety of speakers from within the church and the wider community. ## **Men’s Dinners** Launched at the Eat Out to Help Out campaign during August 2020 at the end of the first lockdown Bryan Jerrard has continued to arrange monthly “Men’s Dinners” at the Delme Arms for eight months of the year which helps encourage the men of the church **19 |** P a g e to meet to get to know each other from all four Sunday services and other services held during the week ## **Friday Friends** A weekly group of mostly ladies who meet every Friday in the church for fellowship and support and who help at Christmas time to assemble and wrap the Christmas Hampers ## **LMS Music Group** The LMS Music Group led by Pauline Gennings is the music group & singers who provide the 11.30am Sunday morning service live worship for two to three Sundays per month. Since the latter part of the 2025 the Later Morning Service worship team has been joined by Kathy Snowden who helps provide the live worship one Sunday a month and we are very grateful for Kathy’s support. St. Mary’s are always needing additional musicians or indeed a worship leader to further enhance the LMS worship team so if any member of St. Mary’s knows of anybody who would like to offer to play and sing at a LMS service even just once a month please speak to the Vicar or Pauline ## **Café Church** A monthly afternoon service & gathering starting at 4pm aimed at families with children which met in St. Mary’s Church on the third Sunday of the month (term time) and provided a cooked evening meal followed by games and a bible story. Café Church provided an opportunity for families who don’t want to attend a traditional church service to attend a service that is very family orientated and to enable them meet other parents and guardians for friendship and fellowship. ## **Altar Servers & Welcomers** St. Mary’s is fortunate to have a dedicated team of Readers, Servers and Communion Assistants who help support the Clergy at the 8am & 9.30am at communion services. St. Mary’s Welcomers welcome the congregation and visitors to the three Sunday morning services and for the 11.30am service also serve the teas & coffees at the end of the service. ## **Tea & Company** Tea and Company is an opportunity to meet monthly at the Parish Hall on a Sunday afternoon for tea/coffee, plenty of delicious homemade cake and plenty of talking. Initially started to encourage those who have recently been bereaved to come and meet people in a similar position it has grown into a regular monthly meet for anyone who is in need of a few hours of different company. Rachel Standen, who is the main co-ordinator is regularly joined by other volunteers during the afternoon. It is always on the first Sunday of the month - unless it falls on Christmas or Easter. Numbers vary each month but there is always a core number who come along and we welcome more. There is a friendly atmosphere and importantly there is no charge. Just come along. We usually have a Christmas party with carols and **20 |** P a g e a ’sing-along’ and always tea and cake and good company. A big thank you to all who volunteer to make this a really lovely afternoon and those who bake the cakes (you know who you are). ## **Concerts, Christmas Fayre & Social Events** Throughout the year St. Mary’s are blessed with an array of concerts and social events. These events include the annual skittles evening held in the church, the annual Harvest Supper held on the last Saturday in September, special concerts/events to raise money for the building fund including a visit of a choir from St. James’ Church in London held in the summer. The church also held a series of lunchtime concerts that included sessions by classical guitarist Jonathan Pragg & classical violinist Fumi Otsuki. The church hosted the annual Christmas Fayre at the end of November 2025 and is major fund raiser for the building or for urgent building repair bills (such as the West Wall repair). The tearoom also participates in the annual Portchester Summer Gala by providing the best BBQ of the day. ## **Other groups who regularly meet in & around St. Mary’s Church include:** ## **Jennifer’s House Group** A house group of over 15 people meeting & attending each Tuesday in the North Chancel. ## **Contemplative Prayer Group** A silent prayer group who meets every Thursday morning in the Chancel who pray for the various events of the day. ## **Morning Prayer Group** A said prayer and reflection time that meets each week on a Wednesday & Friday morning at 9am ## **Women’s Bible Study** A bible study & fellowship for ladies of all ages that meets each Thursday at 1pm in The Hub in Portchester Precinct ## **Connect & Momentum** Childrens & Youth groups that meet every Friday in the Parish Hall Portchester. Connect meet at 6.15pm – 7.45pm & Momentum 7.45pm to 9pm ## **Castle Hand Bells** Hand bells group that meets every Monday at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s New Room (Tearoom) **21 |** P a g e ## **Aim and Purposes of the PCC** The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent. The Reverend Canon Dr. Ian Meredith in promoting the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also responsible for the maintenance of the church building and its fabric and 24 Jute Close Portchester. ## **Objectives and Activities** The primary objective of the PCC is the formation of a community of people who are seeking to grow in faith, to live out that faith, and to share the good news of Jesus Christ through our service of, and engagement with those who live in the Parish of Portchester. The PCC does this in accordance with the teaching and practices of the Church of England. ## **Public Benefit** The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the public benefit guidance issued by the Charity Commission. The Trustees have taken account of such guidance when reviewing the charity’s aims and objectives, and in planning activities. ## **Achievement and Performance** In 2025 there were 253 parishioners on the electoral roll of whom 20% live outside the parish Boundary. The average weekly attendance counted in October 2025 was 158 of whom 13 were children. ## **Safeguarding** St. Mary’s recognise the importance of a safe Church and place where the congregation & visitors will know that their children and the vulnerable will be protected. St. Mary’s safeguarding is led by Steve Oliver the Parish Safeguarding Officer assisted by Linda Johnson the Deputy Parish Safeguarding Officer and Sue Oliver the Parish Safeguarding administrator. All PCC members, those in leadership roles, those who are responsible for children’s and young people’s groups & those who are involved in pastoral and other roles in the church have all had safeguarding training and those in appropriate roles have DBS Enhanced checks. **22 |** P a g e ## **Parochial Church Council of St. Mary’s Portchester** Ex- Officio Members Incumbent: The Reverend Canon Dr. Ian Meredith Curate: The Reverend Elizabeth Pearn Readers: Mrs. Carol Gay Churchwardens: Mrs. Denise Simmons (30[th] October 2021 – present) Mr. Ian Parker (21st May 2025 - present) Elected Members: Diocesan Synod Representatives: Mr. Gerald Anderson (June 2018 – present) Deanery Synod Representatives: Mr. Peter Bradley (April 2019 – present) Mr. Stephen Oliver (February 2024 – present) Laity Representatives: Mr. Eric Standen (16[th] May 2023 – present) Mr. Ray Norman (2[nd] April 2017 – present) Mrs. Dawn Traer (15[th] April 2018 – present) Mr. Stephen Traer (15[th] April 2018 – present) Mr. Chris Hayes (25[th] October 2020 – present) Mrs Tanya Simpson (23[rd] May 2023 – 20[th] May 2025) Mr. Michael Crate (30[th] October 2021– present) Ms. Elaine Johnson (21[st] May 2024 – present) Mr. Mark Woods (21[st] May 2024 – present) Mr. Jeff Gennings (30[th] October 2021 – present) Mrs. Jenny Olding (20[th] May 2025 – present) Mr. Matt Crosby (20[th] May 2025 – present) PCC Secretary: Mr. Leigh Williams (1[st] September 2025– present) PCC Treasurer: Mr. Stephen Oliver (1[st] September 2022 – present) **23 |** P a g e ## **Trustees** Chair: The Reverend Canon Dr. Ian Meredith (16[th] June 2013 – present) Others: Mr. Ian Parker (1[st] April 2019 – present) Mrs. Denise Simmons (30[th] October 2021 – present) Mr. Eric Standen (16[th] May 2023 – present) Mr. Ray Norman (2[nd] April 2017 – present) Mrs. Dawn Traer (15[th] April 2018 – 25[th] May 2026) Mr. Stephen Traer (15[th] April 2018 -25[th] May 2026) Mr. Chris Hayes (25[th] October 2020 – present) Mrs Tanya Simpson (23[rd] May 2023 – 20[th] May 2025) Mr. Michael Crate (30[th] October 2021– present) Ms. Elaine Johnson (21[st] May 2024 – present) Mr. Mark Woods (21[st] May 2024 – present) Mr. Jeff Gennings (30[th] October 2021 – present) Mrs. Jenny Olding (20[th] May 2025 – present) Mr. Matt Crosby (20[th] May 2025 – present) Standing Committee: Chair: The Reverend Canon Dr. Ian Meredith (16[th] June 2013 – present) Members The Reverend Elizabeth Pearn (September 2024 – present) Mr. Ian Parker (1[st] April 2019 – present) Mrs. Dawn Traer (15[th] April 2018 – May 2025) Mr. Peter Bradley (April 2019 – present) Mr. Stephen Oliver (1[st] September 2022 – present) Mrs. Denise Simmons (30[th] October – present) Mr. Eric Standen (16[th] May 2023 - present) Mr. Chris Hayes (26[th] May 2025 – present) **24 |** P a g e ## **Treasurer’s Report** ## **Income** St. Mary’s annual income in 2025 had a surplus of around £14.5k mainly due to a grant received from Churchlands towards the repairs of the West Wall and also a reduction in staff costs due to Tanya Simpson leaving her post as Youth Leader and another staff member voluntarily electing to step down as paid member of staff. The PCC wish to encourage the many new members of our church who may not contribute regularly to the church finances to either donate to the church through the Parish Giving Scheme or by monthly standing order direct to the church. The PCC also recognises in this increasingly cashless society when the baskets go around the church many people do not carry cash with them and so we have increased the methods of which to pay by card or phone by introducing QR payment codes in the weekly notices and on posters around the church. If any member wishes to donate a one-off donation in addition to their regular giving, please arrange to pay into the church bank account or see the Church Treasurer. Thank you for your continued financial support. We received a few legacies in 2025 plus we held an auction of artwork on behalf of the late Linda Clifford. We are expecting a significant legacy in 2026 from the solicitors acting on behalf of the late Derek Holland. If any Church member wishes to leave a legacy to the church they should speak to their solicitor, family, financial advisor or speak in private to The Vicar. Sales of books are detailed in Publishing of Books in the income section of this report. We are grateful to both Rev. Ian & Bryan Jerrard for their book sales which have helped with the income. We are also indebted to St. Mary’s Tearoom Ltd for their donations in 2025 amounting to £61.5k which has contributed to St. Mary’s income and has allowed the church to maintain its annual Parish Share commitment of £109k pa. ## **Expenditure** During 2025 the major building expenditure was the repair of the West Wall. We are grateful to the support of the Parishioners and others in the community who helped support financially the vital building works plus the donation of £30k from Churchlands and some small grants and the Listed Building VAT reclaim scheme which closed at the end of March 2026 As is known St. Mary’s is looking to build a £1.5million Heritage Centre and the long road of planning & grant applications have started in earnest which inevitably leads to professional Architect fees being incurred. Some alternative designs were considered but it is felt that a rebuild of the South Chancel is the most attractive proposition to attract grants from such organisations like the Heritage Lottery Fund. **25 |** P a g e As reported earlier there were some reductions in paid staff in 2025. Most paid staff saw their wages increase in line with the April 2025 rise in National Living Wages. To support those in need financially there was the usual discretionary donations given by the Vicar as indicated in the Farmer & Ruel expenditure column. Spend on outreach, mission & discipleship has increased due to the church recognising Jesus call on the Church to spread the Gospel to the world (Mark 16: 15) St. Mary’s have started to do more outreach and mission in the community which has led to many new people joining St. Marys Church. These new people are often completely new and unchurched Christians. The Parish Share continues to be our single biggest monthly expenditure, and the Parish Share increased in 2025 by 5% pa . A further 5% increase was added in 2026 with further similar increases planned for the 2027 Parish Share. As a reminder the Parish Share is used to pay our Vicar, support the Diocese and help other churches in the Diocese who are not as fortunate as St. Mary’s to have income from the church members, attenders and visitors and of course the Tearoom meaning many churches simply cannot pay afford to pay all or even some of their Parish Share. From this year the annual accounts for St. Mary’s Tearoom Ltd are included in the APCM. The Tearoom accounts were prepared in accordance with the requirements of Limited Companies. As the tearoom is structured to financially support St. Mary’s Church the tearoom has only made a small trading profit in 2025 for which the appropriate level of Corporation tax will become due in September 2025. The tearoom continues to employ Ron Prior & Dillon Simpson with an additional paid staff member added in the latter end of the 2025. As the management of the tearoom is practically a full time job Steve Oliver is paid a small monthly remuneration to provide the monthly accounts, pay & manage the suppliers, pay & manage the staff payroll, manage the quarterly VAT returns , manage & pay the monthly PAYE, manage & pay the NEST pensions, report to the Pensions Authorities etc and to sign off the limited company accounts in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 **26 |** P a g e Inde ndent Examlnerfs R ChurtleS Ivlth wo55 extYrthpwJ £25.￿￿￿￿￿1 btewiymgébyo i￿4 Istedlft tljeorrovntsdo rnir Lir(wdthth th05ere(rt" ¢Y Ila The G Stubts" P014 2JG Datrd 22 Aw"1 ZOZ6 271Page ## **St. Mary’s Church** ## **Portchester** ## **Church Annual Accounts December 31[st] 2025** ## **Income** |**Title**|**Description**|**2025£**|**2024 £**|**2023 £**| |---|---|---|---|---| |PGS|Parish GivingScheme|58259|56808|54098| |PGS Gift Aid|PGS Gift Aid|13171|13196|13406| |Regular giving|Standing Orders &
Envelopes|41851|40866|39359| |Gift Aid|Regular giving not under
PGS|11856|10889|13406| |Collections|Plate/Basket Offerings|14096|16104|17981| |**Sub Total**||**139233**|**137883**|**138250**| |Interest|Bank & investments|2388|2740|1622| |Bells Fund|Weddings & New bells|0|0|0| |Building Fund|Monthly Giving, Off
Donations Blue small
collection boxes|34228|3388|2967| |Collection Boxes
(Cash)|Pillar safe, candles,|3793|4440|5640| |Contactless Sum
Up,Just Giving|Church Card Machine|3753|5004|4599| |Donations|Alpha Course, Specific
Purpose, Big Quiz, Tear
Fund, Kneelers, West
Wall,FridayFriends|7758|2884|6100| |Farmer & Ruel Fund|One Off Donations|100|500|0| |Funerals &
Churchyard|Funeral Fees Includes
Roses,Labyrinth,|18501|21714|30228| |Weddings|WeddingFees|14566|20996|21188| |Fundraising &
Social events
(general)|Events, Concerts, Gala,
Christmas Fayre,
BBQ, Harvest Supper, Int
Food Fest|6228|6478|6286| |Grants & Insurance
Claims|Beneficial Trust, VAT
Reclaims|7966|1306|1699| |Legacies|Bequests not for specific
purposes,Art Auction|15929|0|5000| |Jute Close|Jute Close Rental
Income|10286|12982|11523| |Church & New
Room|Church & New Room
Hire Fees Including
Spinnaker Brass,AA|2280|1888|1585| **28 |** P a g e |Refunds &
Recycling|Ink recycling, Refunds|207|534|1672| |---|---|---|---|---| |Sales of books &
merchandise|Bryan Jerrard & Rev. Ian
books & postcards etc,
sale ofpews|2762|2696|2802| |St Mary’s Lambs|WeeklyDonations/Subs|283|255|452| |Misc|Monday Market, Diff Day
Hampers, Men’s &
Ladies Breakfasts etc|1511|1188|927| |Tea Room|Tea Room Transfers|61571|62203|72316| |Youth|Connect & Momentum,
High Tide & Fireworks &
Panto|2217|2609|2621| |**Sub Total**||**196337**|**158365**|**179227**| |||||| |**GRAND TOTAL**||**£335570**|**£296248**|**£317477**| ## **St. Mary’s Church Annual Accounts** ## **December 31[st] 2025 Expenditure** |**Title**|**Description**|**2025£**|**2024 £**|**2023 £**| |---|---|---|---|---| |Altar & Sanctuary &
BaptisteryPurchase|Communion, oil, books,
Cloths,|1869|3199|1961| |Artists Memorials|Repair & restoration of
artistsgraves|0|1185|4125| |Bank charges|Bank & Card Payment
Machines|1754|1091|1700| |Bells|Bell Tower Survey & H&S
Report, Noise Assessment,
Structural Survey|4366|0|350| |Existing Church
Building Projects|TV, AV & Church Lighting
Improvements, West Wall
Repairs|38704|6541|37862| |New Building Project|Architects, QS fees, New
Platform construction costs|4792|32561|14397| |Charity Giving (10%
Fund)|Charity Support|13597|3263|5962| |Churchyard
maintenance|Faculty for Exhumation,
Rose Garden|69|352|286| |Church Cleaning|Cleaner Fees & Materials|62|57|90| |ClergyFees|Weddings & Funerals|4371|4077|5218| |Concerts & events|Calvary Church, Lunchtime
and EveningConcerts|560|1267|404| **29 |** P a g e |Diocese Parish fees|For weddings & funerals.|7777|9317|12943| |---|---|---|---|---| |Employees tax & NI &
NEST Pension|Statutory Deductions &
Pensionpayments|5711|21023|15198| |Fabric & Building
maintenance|Cess pit cleaning, Boiler
Maintenance, Toilet Door
Repair & Janitorial, West
Wall Repairs,Jute Close|11526|13788|4739| |Farmer & Ruel|Vicar’s DiscretionaryFund|1100|900|2750| |Fees|Legal, accountants|2220|1753|5218| |Flowers|Church Flowers|877|628|664| |Hospitality & Social
events|Biscuits after services
Receptions, meals &
accommodation.|2789|2665|4214| |High Tide(Youth)|Summer Residential costs|1225|2100|681| |Insurance & licenses|CCLI, Ecclesiastical, ICO,
Churchsuite, Presenter,
MS365 Software|5439|4042|3952| |Organist|Organists Fees (Church
Services)|2750|2150|2800| |Organist|Organists Fees (Weddings &
Funerals)|2245|3880|3830| |Organ maintenance|Including piano tuning|0|40|0| |Outreach, mission and
discipleship|Alpha, leaflets, house group,
teaching material, Wedding
Fayres,Glorious Dinner|728|899|1,811| |Paddock|Clearance of Paddock Area,
Purchase & Erection of
sheds|0|2,432|6,633| |Parish Hall hire|Evening & Day services &
church events|2605|2270|1610| |Other hall rent|St Andrews, Hayling Is. The
Hub|3372|1454|200| |Parish Office rent etc|Office Admin Office|2058|1300|1925| |Printing & Publishing
of books|Bryan Jerrard’s & Ian
Meredith, Post Cards,
Posters,Xmas Cards etc|2351|5445|5097| |Office expenses|Phone, IT, photocopier,
postage|4568|5123|8659| |Parish Share|Diocese|109272|103893|99108| |Refunds|Weddings,bells,etc.|0|150|730| |Salaries & Wages|Admin & Ops staff.|31068|26353|29810| |Seasonal Expenses|Xmas Trees, Mulled Wine
etc|1521|2089|420| |Thanksgiving for
ministry|Including donations to
visitingspeakers|462|563|688| **30 |** P a g e |H&S, Training &
Workwear|PCC Away days, staff
training,First Aid,|102|1019|423| |---|---|---|---|---| |Utilities|Gas, Electric, Water,
Broadband|18141|14427|11581| |Vicarage|Vicarage Gardener & Utilities|3654|4708|2050| |Vicar’s & Curates
expenses,|Mainly travel; training,
retreats,|3786|2181|1056| |WeddingExps.|WeddingFayres|0|677|320| |WorshipResources|(Hymn & Prayer Books etc)|125|450|310| |Youth & Children|Youth, Cadets,
Schools, monastic, & Youth
Worker salary|9535|20503|19262| |St Marys Lambs|Lamb’s resources & Wages|9419|284|849| |Seniors Ministry|Anna Chaplain Wages,
Expenses & Training|5391|10464|9830| |**TOTAL**||**£320995**|**£327231**|**£333932**| **Total Income 2025: £335570 Total Expenditure 2025: £320995 Income over expenditure: £14575** **Bank Balances (Year End 31/12/2025):** ## **Current Account: £6814** **Charity Account (formerly known as the Treasurers Account): £700 Deposit Account: £205050** **31 |** P a g e ## **St. Mary’s Church Portchester** ## **List of Investments 31[st] December 2025** |**Name**|**Description**|**Total £**| |---|---|---| |Jute Close|Curate’s house|400,000| |Dore Avenue|Former Curate’s house & church room.|24474| |Ascension Church|Former church in White Hart Lane|7755| |North Boarhunt|Land sold in 1901|993| ## **List of Designated Funds 31[st] December 2025** |**Name**|**Description**|**Total £**| |---|---|---| |10% Charity|10% of collections & regular giving|13788| |Bells|Repair and purchase of new bells|75000| |Building|New Build (including Architect Fees)|54795| |Farmer & Ruel|Vicar’s discretionary hardship fund|3365| |Organ Replacement|Purchase of next organ|4,374| |**TOTAL**|**DESIGNATED FUNDS**|**151322**| **32 |** P a g e ## **St. Mary’s Church Portchester** ## **Charities Supported In 2025** |**Name**|**Description of Funds Used for Gift**|**Total £**| |---|---|---| |The Children’s Society|Christingle/Xmas 2024 Collections|500| |Emma Kolina|YWAM Outreach Support|1500| |Elizabeth Pearn|Africa Nurse Support|500| |Faith & Football|Faith & Football Outreach|800| |Bible Society|Bibles for Overseas|400| |Soteria Trust|Andy Econ Evangelistic Work|300| |Rowans Hospice|Roger Millard Remembrance|500| |The Elizabeth Foundation|Education Support for Deaf Children|500| |UCB|DailyReadingBooks|£300| |Sisters of Bethany|Xmas Cards|£150| |Creatful|Support for Women’s Wellbeing in
Waterlooville|£100| |P. Owen|Kenya Trip|£200| |Tearfund|Overseas Support|£500| |TS Tenacity|Cadet Support|£250| |TS Alamein|Cadet Support|£250| |Armenian Church|Humanitarian & Evangelistic Support|£500| |Prison Bible Society|Bibles for Prisoners|£300| |Urban Saints|Youth Work|£230| |Simon Says|Sepsis research support|£200| |Soteria Trust|Nigeria Christian School extension|£1000| |Mission Guatemala|Support missionaries in Guatemala|£2000| |St. Monicas School|Support St. Monicas Mission School in SA|£2000| |Farmer & Ruel|Vicar’s DiscretionaryFund|£1000| **33 |** P a g e St. Mary's Tearoom Ltd Detailed Income Statement Year ended 31 December 2025 TUFlhVIER 171287 168 171267 166.964 Purts* 48.059 47.314 2.712 51.e63 STAFF COSTS 60.C61 T¢Mal sutKtmlracted statt Toial •mpbrn Nl 1.712 64ffi1 I￿17 341Page