1 ## _**The Priory Church of St Mary and St Michael, Cartmel**_ ## _**A Place of Discovery, Celebration and Challenge**_ ## **2025 Report and Accounts of the Parochial Church Council** ## **Aims and Purposes** The Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility to work with the incumbent Reverend Nick Devenish, in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelical, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also responsible for the financial affairs of the church, the maintenance of the church fabric and its contents and the immediate surrounding area. The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to become part of our parish community at Cartmel. The PCC maintains an overview of worship and makes suggestions on how our services can involve all members of the local community and the many visitors to the area. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, meditation (Silence), sacrament and music. The nightly on-line service of Compline continues to offer support to, and is appreciated by, a widely scattered Priory community. ## **Objectives and Activities** We try to enable people to live out their faith as part of the local and wider community through: _**worship and prayer**_ ; learning more about the Gospel and increasing their faith, provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish and members of the Priory community who live further afield _**missionary and outreach work**_ – both within the village and in respect of our numerous visitors. Facebook and Instagram form part of our outreach as does our newly ‘refurbished’ web site. Here we are able to give witness to our faith through services (e.g. night prayer) teaching and offering open invitations to services and wider community events. Members of the Priory community share the information further afield. _**Weddings and baptisms**_ are also a welcome opportunity for outreach as prospective couples share our worship on several occasions prior to marriage and frequently return afterwards. To facilitate this work, it is important that we continue our maintenance of the fabric of the Priory Church, improving and developing when and where necessary. The demands on both people and finances are enormous, but such a vital part of our mission and service. 2 ## **Wardens’ Reports** ## _**John Iveson writes on behalf of the Wardens:**_ As another year rolls by and we approach our Annual General Meeting, the Wardens are pleased to report that the life and ministry of Cartmel Priory are in a very healthy state, as a glance through the pages of this Annual Report will testify. The Priory continues to offer its ministry of spirituality and hospitality, not only to our regular worshippers but also to the thousands of people who come through the doors each year, whether as tourists, worshippers, or to attend our increasing programme of concerts and performances. There are, however, two items from the year of this report which merit particular note. Following the retirement of Adrian Self after 34 years as organist and choirmaster, we were thrilled to be able to appoint Mr David Pipe as his successor as Director of Music. David is a very highly regarded organist and musician and brings a wealth of experience and expertise particularly in the field of liturgical music. We welcome David wholeheartedly, and we can be confident that the Priory’s musical and choral tradition is in safe hands. David has some exciting musical plans, and his appointment is already bearing aural fruit. Adrian has accepted the position of Organist Emeritus and will work together with David in maintaining the highest musical standards, week by week. The second item of note concerns the Priory lighting – finally we can see again! After years of rather gloomy internal lighting, we have replaced the existing light fittings with modern LED units, and the results are nothing short of miraculous. Not only are we able to read our hymn books with ease, but the magnificent stone-work and internal architecture of our magnificent Priory has been revealed in all its glory and with such clarity for the first time in many years. This of course only serves to emphasise what a jewel of a building we are charged with caring for. We have plans for development in the pipeline, but of necessity, bringing them to fruition in a Grade 1 listed building takes time and, of course money. But we can still plan! As Wardens of this very special and sacred place, we are always conscious of the responsibility we hold, and we will continually strive to uphold the trust placed in us. _(An enormous ‘thank you’ to our Wardens, Tessa and John, who work well above the call of duty – MI)_ ## **The Priory Church Building and Fabric** ## _**Tessa Pemberton (Warden) writes:**_ 1. In February new blue aluminium inserts were put in the notice boards with up-to-date information 2. Also in February, the yew trees by the main gate and a tree by the north door were pruned back after permission received from the council 3. The clock on the tower was serviced in March 3 4. The boilers have been serviced. A quote has been received for replacing the sub vestry boiler which is very old and temperamental. Further information needs to be obtained before other companies are contacted to provide additional quotes. 5. In June, lights on the altar were converted to LED because the old type bulbs were frequently having to be replaced and were difficult to obtain 6. Also in June, the north and south doors and the cast iron lamp-post were painted. We now await the painting of the north and south gates 7. All the lights in the Priory were converted to LED during the summer period with the work being completed in September. Also, the desk lamps over the choir stalls have been removed and replaced with bespoke copper downlights. 8. Fogarty’s carried out high level cleaning in April, and the following tasks were completed: - Internal and external high level clean - Install bare copper tape above northwest Piper choir side aisle - Replace tile on Town choir roof - Remove regrown clumps of moss on roof from Piper choir roof - Flagpole taken down from the tower 9. Fire extinguishers were serviced at the end of October 10. In November a specialist arborist carried out a survey of the trees in the churchyard and the cemetery. All the trees have been numbered and catalogued for future reference. The survey resulted in the large copper beech by the north gate having to have the cable bracing replaced to make it safe 11. PAT testing completed in November 12. A key safe has been sited in the cupboard with the electrical boards to improve security and the safety of keys 13. The dry-stone wall which was damaged when the ash tree fell into Priory Meadow has been repaired 14. A faculty for the siting of a disabled toilet in the Narthex was submitted and was discussed at a DAC meeting on Dec 11th. Permission to proceed was only given in 2026 15. A faculty was also submitted for the permanent removal of the Victorian children’s choir benches. We are waiting for this to be signed off by the Chancellor. _(Taking care of a Grade 1 listed building is an enormous responsibility and we are grateful to Tessa and her small team for all their work. MI)_ ## **Worship and Prayer** The PCC continues to support the Vicar in a range of services in the Priory, as well as looking to new initiatives. The time of Silence every Friday evening provides a reflective environment for devotion, whilst the monthly Family Service offers a more outgoing style of worship. The monthly soup and sandwich lunches have been much appreciated by those attending and although the numbers have dwindled in the cooler months, there are frequently 15 or 16 worshippers plus helpers. Regrettably the **monthly, informal BCP communion service** in the Town Choir, has been scaled down during the year. The coldness of by Unknown Author is licensed under 4 the Priory and, the lack of people able and willing to help has meant that only on one or two occasions has the lunch taken place. We did, however, have a particularly memorable lunch on Thursday 8th May. We were joined for communion by the older primary school children, members of the congregation and visitors, to remember with thanks VE Day. The whole primary school joined us for lunch when, in addition to the usual sandwiches and cakes, they were given red, white and blue ice cream! Thank you to everyone who helped on this special occasion as the whole church family gave thanks together. ## **Loss** Sadly, we have lost several members of the Priory community this year, many of whom were dear friends and regular members of the congregation. We give thanks for their faithful service, but at the same time, we thank God for the new faces and friends we have made during the year, some of whom now play an integral role in the Priory’s outreach. The monthly **Family Service** encourages many ‘new to church’ to become involved, and it is a particular joy to be joined by recently baptised children and their parents (and grandparents) on a regular basis. Our Christingle Service continues as a ‘highlight’ of the year and is always a moving occasion. All the necessary items for the Christingle Service - satsumas, ribbon, foil, candles, cocktail sticks and sweets - are gathered and portioned out in advance. As the service progresses by Unknown Author is the meaning of each item is clarified and finally the chance to ‘make’ licensed under the Christingle arrives. The lights are dimmed and the Christingle hymn is sung – is there a dry eye amongst the adults? I doubt it. This year we were joined by the archdeacon who made a ‘surprise’ visit to the Priory. The Vicar continues to offer a service **‘Night Prayers’** which began during lockdown, supporting an online congregation (from both the UK and abroad) who share this spiritual connection. A lady from the north-east of the country visited us for a service of Evensong – she had appreciated the Vicar’s night prayers since the early days of COVID and wanted to meet him. The intimate and moving **Ash Wednesday** service with the imposition of ashes took its usual format. It is a particularly poignant service as we begin our journey through Lent towards the sadness of Good Friday and on to the joy of Easter Day. How sad that so few join us in the congregation. **Mothering Sunday** took a slightly different format as the ladies in the congregation were given a pot of primulas. The one or two left over, were placed as a welcome on the desk, with an invitation to visitors to help themselves. We were able to break our Lenten fast by eating the most delicious home-made cakes! We are grateful to John Shippen for leading the services of **Compline** during Holy Week, culminating in the always moving service for Maundy Thursday. On Good Friday the Priory 5 kept the Observance of the Hours, giving time and space to reflect on the events of the crucifixion. The Saturday evening **Easter Vigil** celebrates the ‘Light of Christ’, the arrival of Easter, and the lighting of a new Paschal Candle. Easter Day was celebrated with joy, quickly followed by an Easter Egg Hunt around the church and grounds, organised by Gemma and Matt Bacon. **August Bank Holiday** heralds Steeplechase Sunday when we welcome crowds of race goers together with a horse and jockey from our local stable – an important event in our calendar. Once again we were joined by many visitors and racecourse personnel as we celebrated the beauty of the horse. We were joined on **Remembrance Sunday** by Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Adam Naylor, who laid a wreath on behalf of King Charles. The large congregation was able to remember with thanks the fallen of two world wars and our Cartmel Martyrs, put to death in 1557 following their trial for treason at Lancaster Assizes. Their sacrifice is symbolised by our beautiful Josefina de Vasconcellos sculpture, The Young Martyr. Remembrance was followed by our first **Come and Sing Evensong** led by our new Director of Music, David Pipe. Sixty plus people arrived to sing with us, many of whom had not sung the service before and were joined by as many, if not more, in the congregation. It has been a joy to everyone to see (and hear) how our choir has blossomed once more with at least ten singers from our November venture joining us permanently. Do come along at 3.30pm on a Sunday afternoon and enjoy this centuries old rite. **Saturday 13[th] December** will remain a vivid memory in the life of the Cartmel Priory community, and those from further afield, as we welcomed **His Eminence Archbishop Angaelos** , Coptic Orthodox Archbishop of London, and Papal Legate to the UK. A large congregation greeted the Archbishop when his visit was celebrated with a special service of Morning Prayer at which the Archbishop preached and gave his blessing. A joyous occasion and a great privilege. The **Christmas** services of 2025 were very busy with the Priory filled to capacity (and beyond!) for the Crib Service. It was a pleasure to celebrate the lives of friends and loved ones in the **Light up a Life** service. It was good to have local young singer Emily-Kate Unsworth as soloist, remembering how she had joined us as a primary school pupil in one of Sue Batchelor’s extravaganzas! 6 The Priory Choir, under the direction of David Pipe, was on top form as Christmas approached, and the **Service of Nine Lessons and Carols** produced a rich variety of music appreciated by a large congregation. The **milestones** of our journeys through life were observed. Through baptism we thank God for the gift of life, and the families of those being baptised are always given a baptism candle and certificate. They also receive a card and a ‘Cross in a Pocket’ (made by Kate Thorburn and complete with its own poem) from the Priory Family in recognition of the special occasion. by Unknown Author is In marriage, public vows are exchanged with God’s blessing. Through funeral licensed under and memorial services family and friends are able to express their grief and give thanks for the life which is now complete in this world and to commend the person into God’s keeping. We give thanks for all those who considered the Priory a central part of these rights of passage and remember them in love and prayer. ## _**Mary Iveson (PCC Secretary)**_ ## **Reader's Report** During the year I have supported the Vicar in the weekly 10.30am Eucharist and also taken services in his absence. I have continued to visit the sick and elderly in the parish along with other members of the PCC. Tessa Pemberton and I are accredited DBS recruiters, and we are happy to continue in this role; DBS clearance has been obtained for all PCC members. In the wider scope of the Priory within the local community, during the year I have supported events and fund raising by assisting in the running of the bar along with other volunteers. ## _**Dianne Maguire, Licensed Reader**_ ## **Lay Chaplaincy** This has been my second year as lay chaplain in the Priory. Whilst I continue to try to provide a regular presence, this has been somewhat thwarted by ill-health and by transport problems (whoever it was that said if one is going to buy a Land Rover, have enough money to buy two, so the repair bill can be covered, was quite correct). I continue to be profoundly moved by the number of visitors who come for a glance around the Priory, but who stay, take a seat and remain, with their thoughts or prayers. For me, this is what we mean when we describe the Priory as a sacred space, a place that speaks of God in its own, unique way. Whilst I tend to choose to be present on days during school holidays, when there will be more visitors than usual, it has been noticeable this year that many of the personal conversations I have had have been on occasions when the Priory is less busy. 7 Please remember that I am available, not only for those visiting us, but for members of the church and village community. Whilst I often meet my daily steps goal by walking around the church, I would always prefer to be talking to people. ## _**Bill Rea, Lay Chaplain**_ ## **Safeguarding Report** Copies of the parish Safeguarding Policy are held, for reference, in the vestry filing cabinet the Priory Shop. There have been three safeguarding concerns during the year which were dealt with in accordance with our Safeguarding Policy and Diocesan Guidelines. There are no current concerns with regard to safeguarding issues. Within the filing cabinet, referenced above, there is a whole section dedicated to Safeguarding with referral forms and guidance as to what needs to be done should a safeguarding incident be referred to us and to whom it should be passed. In addition, the Responding Well to Domestic Violence and Safer Environment and Activities policies are always at hand should they be required. At both entry points to the Priory (the north and south doors) the Safer Church posters are displayed contact details of the Safeguarding Officer for the parish and the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer. Posters have been placed at various points in the building to provide necessary information to vulnerable people in case of need. The majority of the PCC has completed the Basic and Foundation courses and also the Responding Well to Domestic Abuse course. In the year 2026-2027 members of the PCC will need to refresh their training, and several DBS certificates require renewal in 2026. ## _**Dianne Maguire - Safeguarding Officer until September 2025…….**_ ## _**…..and from our new Safeguarding Officer, Bill Rea**_ I took over as Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) in September 2025, following Dianne Maguire, who had been PSO for several years. Doing so was always going to be a hard act to follow, as she had worked tirelessly to ensure that our standards of safeguarding were the very highest. It is thanks to Dianne that what could have been a very steep learning curve was considerably flatter. My first few months were largely occupied with completing my own training and getting used to the record-keeping and reporting requirements. The existence of a software system known as the Parish Dashboard (an innovation for which Dianne was responsible) made this 8 latter element relatively straightforward. It acts as a reminder of training and reporting tasks that need to be undertaken, not just by me, but by other church officers. The Dashboard system is now being enhanced by a system known as Hubs, which streamlines the process of recording safeguarding training and reminds people when they are due to revisit their training, usually every three years. One thing that has been a constant theme during my training has been the emphasis on safeguarding as the responsibility of every member of the church community. Whenever there is a concern about any of our sisters and brothers, it should be mentioned, as soon as possible, to Nick or me. If the concern is serious, then the referral should be made with all speed, so that any necessary action can swiftly be taken. The formal safeguarding policies cover the need to protect children and vulnerable adults, but anyone can become vulnerable at any time, and it is always important to ensure that your concerns are made known. Safeguarding should be an essential part of the culture of every church. During the next year, I hope to be able to arrange for the basic level of safeguarding training to be made available to all of the church community. It is predominantly delivered online, which may not be the ideal channel for all of us. I am discussing the possibility of having a face-to-face training session in the early autumn, to which everyone will be invited. safeguarding_cartmel_priory@proton.me 07807 937055 ## **Priory Care** by Unknown Author is licensed under Those individuals involved in pastoral work have a very special role to play. Modern methods of communication can be helpful in making contact ‘from a distance’ when a phone call or personal visit may not be appropriate. Such ‘distant contact’ also allows an individual to respond as he or she feels best for them. Personal visits, a trip out for coffee or shopping, or simply a quiet word after church are all part of our care for each other, by each other. And, of course, it goes without saying that our Vicar and Reader are always happy to take communion to those who make this request. ## **Our Vision for the Next 800 Years** 9 ## _**Our Vision is to reach out to all, as the Priory continues in its mission as a beacon of Christian Spirituality.**_ Helping those in need is a demonstration of our faith. Regular Barrow Food Bank appeals have taken place during the year, and these have been well resourced by members of the congregation and village. Annabel Hunt continues to email weekly service sheets which keep as many people as possible informed of the important matters affecting our church and of up-coming events. The Priory Shop continues to be part of our Outreach Programme and a focal point for visitors to the church. A warm welcome is given and the literature and goods on sale remain a powerful witness to our faith and outreach. As one welcomer says: _“It is a joy to experience the reaction, particularly of first-time visitors, as they ‘sense’ the hundreds of years of prayer and worship in which the Priory is steeped”._ If you feel you could offer a couple of hours each week to this outreach work please contact Annabel Hunt who will happily offer appropriate support. **Santa in the Priory** brought hundreds of people to the Priory. Parents and their children were happily queuing to see Santa as well having the opportunity to browse the Primary and Priory school stalls. It was so good to see so many students from both our schools offering their time to help serve on the stalls. It was a truly special community time in the Priory. Thank you to all those who helped to organise and to run this community event. ## **CARTMEL SCHOOLS** ## _**Cartmel C of E Primary School**_ As Spring is around the corner, I cannot believe another year has passed. Cartmel Primary School has had a wonderful, busy and exciting time since our last report. Always keeping our ‘Mission Statement’ and Christian Values at the centre of all we do, the learning continues to be enriched, reflecting on experiences and looking outwards towards the local community in so many ways. Continuing the strong Christian leadership from Mrs Battersby our Headteacher, supported by Revd. Nick, the whole school community, creates the safe nurturing environment required for successful learning, resulting in a glowing OFSTED report in February 2025. A strength of our school is the inclusive, supportive environment, meeting the needs of all learners with its strong caring relationships. Our ‘Artsmark’ journey is continuing to enrich the curriculum through the creative arts; music, dance, drama and art. Church has continued to play a large role in our school life with visits to Cartmel Priory Church for a Communion Service, followed by a Community lunch and Class 1 taking a special trip to church for a Baptism ceremony session led by Rev Nick. The Priory was also a magnificent setting for the school Nativity, enhanced by ethereal lighting and the atmosphere created by the beautiful performance in such a place of history. 10 An inaugural ‘Pride of Cartmel Award Ceremony’ was a fantastic showcase, with the children showing everyone how they care and truly value, the tremendous, far-reaching support the community offers to their school. The completion of phase 1 of our wonderful ‘Cartmel Primary Goes Wild’ project,’ is fully enhancing learning around environmental matters, both at school and afterwards at the ‘Gardening Club.’ Forest School work continues in the local woods to develop confidence, team building, learning of life skills and empowering spiritual awareness of the beauty of the natural world, making vibrant leaf rainbow creations, amongst other activities. Using apples from our trees, Harvest held a special place for the ‘crumble makers’. The ‘Community Craft’ afternoon sessions generate a shared love for creative activities, engaging minds and channelling focus and concentration, to which we invite other members of the community to be involved. Visits to museums, residential trips, theatre experiences, taking part in the Junior Citizen event at Grange Fire Station, participating in workshops to explore online dangers, road safety interactive drama workshops and engaging with sustainability projects alongside the enjoyment of reading demonstrate the broad and balanced curriculum our primary school offers. Everything we do encourages us to live out our shared vision, and to be proud of our Church School status. ## _**Dorothy Milner Chair of Governors and Foundation Governor**_ **Guided Tours** are now carried out only by advanced booking. ## **Mothers’ Union** Last year I reported that we had been invited to share in meetings with the Milnthorpe and Heversham branch and this we decided to do on a permanent basis, although the Cartmel branch has not been officially ‘retired’. We now join their 25+ members on a regular basis enjoying a variety of speakers and social activities. We experienced afternoon tea at St John’s Hospice café in Lancaster and also shared a wonderful by Unknown Christmas lunch, prepared locally and served, in their newly refurbished Author is licensed under meeting room. The Christmas lunch was followed by an afternoon of ‘home grown’ entertainment in which we participated fully. Thank you Marion, and all your members for such a warm welcome. Looking ahead, as we celebrate 150 years since the founding of MU, we at Cartmel are hoping to host a special Evensong service for the archdeaconry on 9[th] August, in honour of Mary Sumner Day the founder of MU. It will, of course, be open for all – another occasion when you can hear the glorious music of our weekly Choral Evensong – perhaps with an extra special ingredient! 11 As I remarked last year, we give thanks for our forebears who led our Mothers’ Union branch with such enthusiasm and loyalty, and we continue to pray for MU members across the globe as each branch faces issues of its own, giving thanks for all that has been – and will be. ## _**Mary Iveson**_ ## **Music in the Priory - Adrian writes:** Cartmel Priory has been part of my life since January 1st 1990 and, although I officially retired as Priory organist on August 2nd 2025, I am now enjoying singing with the Priory choir. I am so grateful to my wonderful successor, David Pipe, for agreeing that Pam and I can sing in the choir under his expert guidance. David has worked wonders with the choir since he took over in September, and it is so uplifting to be part of such a happy and vibrant group of deeply committed singers. My years at Cartmel have been the happiest of my life and I feel privileged and richly blessed to have been able to join the everexpanding ranks of basses. Looking back through last year’s diary it’s been quite a surprise to realise just how much music was going on. In April Cartmel Choral Society presented a programme of Passiontide music by Bach, Mendelssohn, Somervell, Rheinberger and Haydn and I gave the customary Easter Bank Holiday lunchtime organ concert. May saw ‘Sensational Sondheim’ and a concert as part of the Ulverston Music Festival. In June our good friends from Flookburgh Band entertained us and there was also a presentation of organ music by women composers. In July we had a fine concert by Pro Nobis under their conductor Clive Walkley and at the beginning of August we welcomed members of the Cumbrian Society of Organists who presented their annual organ marathon. A week later, the Priory hosted two concerts as part of the Lake District Summer Music Festival. At the start of the year the Priory organ took it upon itself to misbehave with a serious problem with the low-voltage electrics which effectively put the piston system out of action for several weeks. Fortunately, thanks to Anthony Kitchen from Carlisle, the fault was eventually traced to a failed capacitor in the organ’s computer by Unknown (despite having played the instrument for more than thirty-five years I Author is licensed had no idea that it had a computer - it is well buried underneath the under organ console). It was a great relief to have such an obscure fault cured and a very pleasant surprise to receive his extremely reasonable bill, considering how long it took him to isolate the faulty component. An enormous debt of gratitude is owed to the devoted members of the Priory Choir. Postpandemic things have not always been easy and we are fortunate that not only has the choir kept going through some dispiriting times which have witnessed the demise of so many church choirs, but have actually flourished and, as things stand now, are in as healthy a state 12 as they have been for many years. Here it seems appropriate to say a big ‘thank you’ to our vicar, Nick, who has always been absolutely supportive and encouraging. For me personally, there have been two particular highlights of my last months as Priory organist. For me personally, there have been two particular highlights of my last months as Priory organist. On June 22nd we had a lovely choir meal at the Grange Hotel and although I know that a number of people were involved in organising this, I would like to say a particular ‘thank you’ to Sue Batchelor who did so much to make it very special. Fortunately, Sue has the organisational ability which I lack. The other event which I will never forget was the Steam Experience on the Embsay Railway in October - a ‘retirement gift’ which could not be bettered. Despite pretty dreadful weather it was unforgettable and it was particularly lovely that Pam could be involved too. It won’t happen again because health and safety frowns on old codgers fiddling around on locomotive footplates (!) and I thought that I would probably be considered too old, so thank you to everyone who contributed to this splendid gift which probably came just in time! There’s only one more thing even better than driving a steam engine - singing bass in ‘All in the April Evening’. Maybe that’s just around the corner . . . _(Thank you, Adrian for your dedication over the years – your sense of humour and patience MI)_ ## **……and our ‘new’ Director of Music, David, writes:** I was delighted to take over from Adrian Self as Director of Music in September and was thrilled that Adrian was appointed Organist Emeritus in November. The Priory community has made me feel very welcome, and the Choir have impressed me with their commitment! We held a 'Come & Sing' Evensong in November, which attracted over 70 singers from the local area; this had a very positive effect on our recruitment, and we now have over 20 regular singers on the books. My aim is to make this event an annual feature. By the time you read this we will have held a Service of Music and Readings for Passiontide and there are plans to join forces with the Choir of Kendal Parish Church for a joint Evensong in the summer. ( _David has omitted to mention the very beautiful Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. MI)_ ## _**Professor Wendy Flavell, a newly recruited chorister contributes the following:**_ I was initially attracted to sing in the Priory Choir through an advertisement in that well-known organ ‘Grange Now’ – which contained an invitation to all to Come and Sing Evensong. I haven’t sung Evensong regularly for 45 years (since I was a student), and I was fascinated by the idea that it might be possible to just rock up and sing quite a complex service that demands some level of skill. I thought that perhaps a handful of people might reply. Imagine my surprise when I arrived to discover 55 people had registered, and even more arrived on the day – and pretty much everyone knew their 13 way around a psalter! David and his team had obviously mined into the untapped yearning of legions of ex-choristers from all around the region! The service itself was a very uplifting experience, and I decided to say ‘Yes’ to David’s subsequent invitation to join the choir. Immediately I found I had been allocated a cassock on a hanger with my name on it, a shelf for my music and the absolutely essential fingerless gloves, in a shade of vermillion to match the cassock (knitted by a friend of the choir who is obviously familiar with the typical temperature in the Priory!) Since then I’ve experienced the absolute joy of revisiting lots of music I haven’t sung for decades, and of learning some very beautiful new music. As I quietly admire the Norman arches each week, I reflect on what a privilege it is to sing in a stunning building with such superb resonant (and forgiving!) acoustics. I’ve certainly been ‘winging it’ so far, with lots of quiet panic sessions with YouTube – and it’s been quite a learning curve after such a long period of abstinence. All of this has been made much easier by the support, good humour and very warm welcome of the established choir members, which have made the last few months a thoroughly enjoyable experience. ## **Volunteers** We would like to thank all the volunteers who work so hard to make our church the community is. Mention should be made particularly of the Wardens, John Iveson and Tessa Pemberton and Treasurer, Dr Fiona Smith who work tirelessly on our behalf, together with our Reader Dianne Maguire, Lay Chaplain Bill Rea and Annabel Hunt, PA to the Vicar. it We want our church to be open as often as possible for private prayer and for visitors. Although our rota of welcomers is now severely reduced, we are still open every day, although sadly, we can no longer guarantee a personal greeting throughout the day, seven days a week. However, it is encouraging that new people **are** coming forward and their faithful service is greatly appreciated by the PCC. A special welcome to a new, young and enthusiastic helper. ## _**Oliver writes:**_ My name is Oliver Pearson and I am currently studying for my A Levels at Lancaster Royal Grammar School. I am very enthusiastic about History and Politics, hoping to read both at Cambridge from next Autumn. Combining my love of history and the need to complete my School Award for Volunteering, I decided to apply to volunteer at the Priory Shop in the charming Cartmel Priory Church. Since May I have been coming along every Saturday afternoon and now find it difficult to stay away! My favourite things about my Saturday afternoons are the people, of course - both those I work alongside and the visitors. The fact that I can share the history of the church with visitors, and learn more about it myself in the process, makes it very special 14 indeed. You meet some very interesting people and never know who might walk through the door! _(Oliver fails to mention the persuasive powers of tea and home-made cakes brought for him on a regular basis! MI)_ ## **Welcomers** The Wardens are grateful to a very small number of the congregation prepared to act as welcomers for services during 2025. It is good to know, also, that there are new faces around and new voices reading the Epistle at the 10.30 service and the lessons at Evensong when required. Thanks, too, to Catherine Bottomley, Elizabeth Walker and Bill Rea who have faithfully acted as Altar Servers and Chalice Administrators alongside Dianne Maguire. ## _**Service Welcomers who served during 2025**_ 8.00am - Matthew Booth, David Bushell, Barrow Gaskarth, David Huggett and Kate Raftry 10.30am – Chris Bevis, Jef Bradburn, Bridget Chaplin, John Chaplin, Pat Foulerton, Tiffany Hunt and Valerie Richardson. Barry Dean, Judith Johnson and Lesley Seaton joined the team mid-year and will be elected at the APCM along with other welcomers. 3.30pm – John Iveson and Nel Hanson _**Refreshments**_ served after the 10.30 service give the opportunity to meet together socially. Thanks are due to Jill and Kay who have set new (and very high) standards in catering after Sunday morning services. Cakes of all designs and types for birthdays and special celebrations are offered with unfailing cheerfulness in spite of the difficult circumstances under which they have been working. Thank you both and your occasional family helpers very much indeed. ## _**Barrow the Bell Ringer writes:**_ Even though I’ve been bell ringing over many years I have never had the time or real interest to delve into serious bell ringing methods. Sunday ringing and some summer practices have been my goal. Serious ringers are bunches of dedicated campanologists who dedicate their life to this hobby! by Unknown Author is licensed under Bell ringing is a good healthy hobby. At Cartmel you have to climb the 90 steps to reach the bell ringing chamber. At the start of each session, you start by ringing the six bells UP hopefully without too much clashing. Practice makes perfect. Team Captain, Bob Somerset, directs operations and we then ring for 3 sessions of 9 minutes before ringing down leaving the bells in a safe, stable position. Over the years the ringers at Cartmel and Flookburgh towers have join together to ensure that there is a full complement of ringers for Sunday services, weddings and other special occasions. Currently the combined number of ringers is a healthy eleven which includes a new ringer who is now a competent ringer after 12 months of training. Weekly practices are 15 held on Wednesday evenings alternating the practice venues of Cartmel and Flookburgh. Sadly in 2024 we lost Sandie Mills, our previous team Captain. Sandie was a very experienced ringer having started her ringing journey at a very young age. The Tower welcomes visiting bell ringers as many experienced groups tour the county at weekends and enjoy the experience of ringing at the Priory. _(The ringers were part of our VE Day celebrations, thus re-playing their role of 1945. MI)_ ## _**Intercessions**_ The leading of intercessions by members of the congregation continues to take place on the first Sunday of each month, or occasionally on others if it is more appropriate for the vicar to lead when festivals fall on the first Sunday. I am grateful to Mary Iveson and Bill Rea for their thoughtful and much appreciated contributions. Further volunteers would be very welcome and I hope other members of the 10.30 congregation will consider coming forward. ## _**Paul Chamberlain**_ _(Thank you, Paul for your contribution, too. MI)_ ## _**Weekly Lesson Readers**_ Thank you to all those who offer their services as readers of the Epistle at the service of Choral Eucharist and those who also fulfil the task when, in the Vicar’s absence, Evensong has been led by John Iveson. There are eighteen volunteers in total and over the liturgical year there is a seasonal rhythm to the readings in the Lectionary, with corresponding colours of the vestments. As John Shippen used to say, the readings provide a ‘slow-moving clock of our physical, mental and social being, as significant as the first snowdrops or the last conkers’. ## _**Mary Iveson**_ ## **Electoral Roll** Mary Iveson, acting Electoral Roll Officer, reports the following information: Total number on roll: 114 of which 77 are non-resident members and 37 are resident in the parish. This number entitles the PCC to two representatives on the Deanery Synod and twelve PCC members should we wish. Sadly, we lost both David Wallace and Fiona Haslam from the Priory community this year, and we remember with thanks the contribution they both made over many years, both 16 served on the PCC and contributed in numerous other ways. We welcome back Dorothy Baxter and offer a warm welcome to our new Director of Music David Pipe and Michael Carroll from the choir. We hope to welcome other new choir members to the roll, but not, I’m afraid until they have served their six months’ notice! ## **Structure, Governance and Management** The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. At the Priory Church the membership of the PCC consists of the Incumbent, Churchwardens, Reader and members elected by those on the Electoral Roll of the Priory. All those who attend our services are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish, including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The full PCC met seven times during 2025 and the Standing Committee twice. All full PCC (and the APCM) meetings took place in the Priory School, and we are grateful to the Priory School and Gemma and Matt Bacon for facilitating this. Whenever possible, the PCC Secretary places articles into monthly ‘Grange Now’ magazine in order to keep the Priory Church in the public eye locally. PPC members who have served at any time during 2025 until the date this report is approved are: ## : **Ex Officio members** **Incumbent** : The Reverend Nick Devenish (Chairman) **Reader** : Mrs Dianne Maguire, representative on Deanery Synod (until April 2026) **Wardens** : Mr John Iveson (Vice chairman) Mrs Tessa Pemberton Dr Fiona Smith (Treasurer) ## **Elected members** : Mr Matthew Bacon (until April 2027) Mr Chris Bevis (until April 2028) Mrs Jill Bertlin (until April 2028) Mrs Pat Foulerton (until April 2026) Mr David Huggett (until April 2028) Mrs Mary Iveson (until April 2028) Mr William (Bill) Rea (until April 2027) 17 ## : **In attendance** Ms Annabel Hunt PA to the Vicar Mrs Jill Bertlin, Mr Chris Bevis and Mrs Mary Iveson (previously ex officio PCC secretary) were welcomed as newly elected members of the PCC, whose differing skills have added to the expertise of the Council. ## **Deanery Synod** There are two elected members to the Deanery Synod in post until 2026: Dianne Maguire and Valerie Richardson. There have been three meetings during the year usually alternating between Allithwaite and Windermere. Valerie resigned the position in the Summer of 2024; Dianne has been ‘holding the fort’ since then. If you are interested in supporting Dianne and the PCC in this role as a Deanery Synod member I am sure Dianne would be happy to give you more details. _**Mary Iveson (PCC Secretary) March 2026**_ The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cartmel Registration number: 1130275 Annual Report and Financial Statements 31 December 2025 dOdd&co The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Contents Reference and Administrative Details Trustees. report Trustees. responsibiliti85 Independent examiner's report Statement of financial activities Balance sheet Notes to the financial statements The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Reference and Administrative Details Charity name The Parochial Church Counal of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cartmel Charlty reglstratlon number 1130275 Prlnclpal office The Vicarage Priest Lane C8rtmel GRANGE OVER SANDS LA11 6PU Règistèrod offic* The Vicarage Priest Lane Cartmel GRANGE OVER SANDS LA11 6PU Trust•ès N Devenish, Chairman D Hugget J Iveson J Johnson Iresigned 25 March 20251 P Foulerton D Maguire T Pemberton F Smith ARea M Bacon J Beruin lappointed 23 April 20251 C Bevis lappoinled 23 April 20251 M Iveson lappointed 23 April 20251 Accountant Dodd & Co Limited FIFTEEN Rosehill Monlgomery Way Rosehill Estate CARLISLE CA1 2RW Page 1 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Trustees. Report for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 The financial slalements have been prepared in accordan￿ with the accounting policies sel out in the notes lo the accounts and comply with the charity's goveming document, the Charities Acl 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practi￿ applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Objectives To promot8 th8 whole rnission of th8 Church serving both the parish 8nd the rn8ny thousands of visitors who corne through The Priory doors. We seek to be a welcoming Christian cornmunity serving the people of Carttnel, its surrounds and beyond, as we offer an invitation for all to diswver 8 personal relationship with Jesus. The PCC has the responsibility of supporting the Vicar. Reverend Nick Devenish, in promoting within the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church. In developing our ohurch's aims and objectives The PCC have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit and particularly the specific guidan￿ given to charities for the advancement of religion. Safe9uardin9 This remains a key priority. We are grateful to Dianne Maguire for her work and for handing over to Bill Rea. Ongoing training through Parish Dashboard is available. The PCC places an emphasis that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. Key Actlvltles In 2025 Worship & Prayer.. Weekly Sung Eucharist, Monthly Family Services, Weekly Choral Evensong, Night Prayer online, seasonal liturgies, and Quiet reflection. Pastoral Care.. Home and hospital visits when asked ft)r. Outreach: Social media presence., Priory Shop ministry,. school links,. celebrating major festivals and events. Life Moments.. Weddings, baptisms and funerals. Fabric.. The replacement of sodium lighting with LED bulbs has transformed the internal space. Malor Hlghllghts Slow but steady growth in the Sunday congregations as we continue io recover from the global pandemic that changed behavior. The appointment of the new Director of Music, David Pipe. A Come & Sing Evensong with over 70 singers. Archbishop Angaelos's visit and special service of Moming Prayer. Major community events including Christingle, Steeplechase Sunday, Light up a Life, and Santa in the Priory. A full and rich programme of concerts, VlSiting choirs, theatre productions and the support of Lake District based music festiv81s. Coniinued strength of online Night Prayer ministry. Fabric of the building This is a major role and is overseen by a srnall and dedicated tearn as The PCC is committed to handing over the Priory Church in the best possible condition. Thi5 work is supported by our appointed architect. Dominic Roberts. The Fabric comrnittee is involved in beginning the process for the repl8￿ment of the Chancel roof and in finding a solution to th8 water ingr8SS to the bell tOW8r. Page 2 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Trustees. Report for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 Cornrnunity Strong partnership wth Cartmel CE Primary and Cartmel Priory Academy. Food 88nk appeals supported throughout the year. Priory Shop continues as a centre of welcome for visitors. The PCC is grateful to all volunteers". choir members, welcomers, servers, readers, shop team, pastoral visitors, and event helpers. Electoral role Total.. 113 members. 75 non-resident. 38 resident in parish 2 Deanery Synod representatives, vacancies. Vision The Priory continues to live out the vision of its founder, William Marshal, as a beacon of Christian splfltuality and a place of belonging. Financial Revièw The net assets of the PCC have decreased by £4,881 this year. At the year end, the Charity had free reseNes of £112,398. This is considered to be an appropriate level of reserves. The free reserves figure includes an inler-company loan which exists be￿een Cartmel Priory Churth Shop Ltd and the PCC of Cartmel Priory, which currently stands at £27,062. Immediately available reserves of the PCC are therefore £85,336 at the year end. Future profits generated by Cartmel Priory Church Shop Ltd will enable further repayments to be made with the anticipation that the balance will be cleared whin a 5 year timeframe. Reserves Policy The reserves policy agreed by the PGC refleds its responsibility for the financial security of the organisation and aims to.. -accumulate an adequate level of funds to finance short-term reductions in income caused by unexpected events. This currently stands at 4 months operating expenditure. -generate annual operating surpluses tc) build up further reseNes to be utilised over ihe next 3-5 years to fund the progiamme of maintenance and repairs identified in the recent Quinquennial Inspection Review. -invest our free rgserves to eam interest which can be used to offsetfuture operating and capital gxpenditure. Investment Policy The PCC'S investment policy pursues a balance between risk and reward. All our investment assets are in CBF Investment Unil Trusts, managed by CCLA Investment Management who pursue a socially responsible investment pc>licy, which aims to restrict or prevent investment in companies whose main business interests are in landmines, cluster bombs and nuclear weapons, gambling, tobacco, alcohol, pornography, energy coal extraction or high interest credit. Structure, Governance and Management The Parochial Church Council of Cartmel is a corporate body established by The Church of England. It is part of the Diocese of Carlisle. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Powers Measure and is a charity registered with the Charity Commission. Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. The church encourages each attendee to register on the Electoral Roll and sland for election to the PCC. The Priory Trust CIO is independent trust which relates to the PCC. Cartrnel Priory Shop is a limited company and trading subsidi8ry of the PCC of Cartmel. Page 3 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Trustees. Responsibilities in relation to the Financial Statements The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees. Report and the finanaal statements in accordan￿ with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards. The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the truslees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs ol the charity and of the incoming resourtss and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistenuy,. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP., make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any m8teri81 departures disclosed and gxpl8ined in the fin8ncial statements,. and prepare the financial ststemenls on the going concem basis unless il is inappropriate lo presume that the charity will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position ol the charity and enable them lo ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022, the Charity IAccounts and Reports) Regulations and the provisions of the trust deed. They are responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hen￿ for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Page 5 Independent Examlner's Report to the Trustees of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cartmel I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. which are set out on pages 7 to 20. Your attention is to drawn lo the fact that the Charity has prepared ihe financial statements in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement ol Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has since been withdrawn. We understand that this has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordan￿ with the Generally A¢￿pted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019. Respective responsibilities of trustees and 8xamin8r The Charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144121 of the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022 (the Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to.. examine the accounts under section 145 of the Act., follow the protsdures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissic)n under section 145151 Ibl of the Act,. and state whether particu18r matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examinerfs report My ex8min8tion w85 carried out in accord8nce with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination inoludes 8 review of the acwunting records kgpt by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented wth those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees Con￿rning any such Matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide 811 the eviden￿ that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to wh8ther the accounts present a'tru8 and fair view and the report is limited to those matt8rs s8t out in th8 5tatern8nt below. Independent examinerfs ststement In connection with tny examination. no mattgr h85 wmg to Tny attention.. 111 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements.. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022., and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records, comply with the accounting requirernents of th8 Act have not been met., or 121 tc) which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. FIFTEEN Rosehill Montgomery Way Rosehill Estste CARLISLE CA1 2RW Joanne Thornlinson FCA Dodd & Co Limited Chartered Accountants 22 April 2026 Page 6 The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cartmel Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 Unrestrl¢ted Re$trl¢ted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Fund5 2025 2024 Note Income Don8tions and lega¢ies Investments 112.574 3,397 465 72.029 184.603 3,397 465 159,170 3,291 983 Charitable actiMt18S Other inwme 29,022 145.458 1,174 73.203 30,196 218,661 12,929 176.373 Total incom8 Expeniliture Raising funds Charitable actimties 205 149,637 149.842 205 410 167,734 168.144 73,212 73.212 222,849 223,054 Total 8xp8nditur8 Gross transfers betW88n funds 11,123 111,1231 Gain511105sesl on investment as5et5 12061 12821 14881 273 Net inwmellexpenditurel 6,533 111,4141 14,8811 8,502 Re¢on¢iliation of fund$ Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 117,223 123,756 51,344 39,930 168,567 160,065 168,567 163,686 The notes on pages 9 to 20 form an integral part ol these financial statements. Page 7 IB.I2 1Q111 123 i?.QlJJ 145E¥ 1tt493 IBll.5sr 1¥17 IBBYT The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 Accounting policies Statement of compllance The accounts (financial statementsl have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notelsl to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the second edition of the Charities Statement of Recornrnended Practice issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdorn and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022. The acoounls Ifin8nci81 staternentsl have been prepared to give a 'lrue and fair, view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide 8 'true and fair vi8w'. This departur8 ha5 invoIv8d following Accounting and Reporting by Chariti8s pr8paring their accounts in accordance with the Financi81 Reporting Stsnd8rd applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 rather than thg Accounting and Reporting by Charities'.St8ternent of Recommended Practice effedive frorn 1 April 2005 which has Sin￿ bgen withdrawn. Basis of Preparation The charity mgets the definition of a public b8n8fit 8ntity under FRS 102. Assets and li8bilitl8s arg initially recogni5ed at historical c05t or transaction value unless otherwis8 Stated in the r8levant accounting policy notes. Going ¢on¢ern These financial statements have been prepared on 8 going concern basis. Fund accounting policy Unrestricted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees, discretion in fvrtherance of the objectives of the Charity. Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose. Designated funds are unrestricted funds set aside at the discretion of the trustees lor specific purposes. Further detsils of each fund are disclosed in note 16. Income and endowments Income including donations, legacies and grants that provide core funding or are of a general nature is recognised where there is entitlement, probabilty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient Income from Govemrnent and other grants, whether'capital, grants or'revenue, grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the incorne will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred. Inctsming resources from tax reclaims are included in the statement of financial activities at the same time as the gift to which they relate. Inv85trn8nt incom8 is recognis8d on a r8C8ivabl8 bas1S. Income from charitable activities includes income recognised as earned las the relaied goods or serviTrs are provided) under contract. Page 9 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Expendlture Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity lo the expenditure. All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Costs of iaising funds are the costs of trading for fundraising purposes. Ch8rit8ble expenditure cornprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and Sgrvic85 for its ben8fici8ries. It inoludes both costs that can be allocated dir8ctly to such gctivitl8s and those costs of an indirect nature n8cessary to support th8m. Support Costs Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis nsistent with the use of resources, for example, allo¢8ting propety oosts by floor areas, or per ¢8pita, staff sts by the time spent and other Costs by th8ir usage. Fixed assets Individu81 fixed assets wsting £1000 or more are initially recorded at cost. Depreciation Depreoi8tion is provided on tsngible fixed assets so as to write off th8 Cost or valuation, less any estirnated residu81 value, over their exp8Ctgd useful economio lifg as follows.. Fixtures, liltings and equipment 4 years straight line basis Cash and Cash Equivalent$ Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-tetm highly liquid investrnents that are readily oonv8rtible to 8 known 8rnOLJnt of cash and are subject to insignificant risk of chang8 in value. Investm8nts Fixed assgt investrnents gre inGludgd at tngrket valug at the balance shget date. Realised gains and losses (>n investments are calculated as the difference between sales proceeds and their atket value at the start of the year, or their subsequent C05t, and are charged or cred(ted to the statetnent of the financial activities in the period of disp05al. Unrealised gains and losses represent the movement in market values during the year and are credited or charged to the statement (>f financial activities based on the market value at the year end. 0￿ratIng lèasès Rentals payable under operating leases are charged in the statement of financial activities on a stiaight line basis over the lease term. Page 10 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Donatlons and legacles Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Donatlons and legacles Legaci85 and b8qU8Sts Donations Donations from Church shop Donorpoint giving Planned giving Qollections Gift aid envelopes Gift Aid tax r8claimed Boxes Misc income 2,921 30,882 6,359 2,921 31,948 6,359 13,634 16,219 1,06fj 276 21.743 4,015 6,643 10,594 21,055 40 94,219 20.189 6,592 6,376 12,490 16,940 20.189 6,592 6,376 12,490 16,940 102,749 1,066 103,815 Grants Q8rtmel Priory Trust cio Listed place of worship Carbon net zero 67,963 67,963 9,825 3.000 80,788 61,551 3,400 9,825 3.000 70,963 9,825 64,951 112,574 72,029 184,603 159,170 Of the donations and legacies income in 2024, £90,587 related tts unrestricted funds and £68,583 related to 185tricted funds. Investments Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Interest on cash depr)sits 3,397 3,397 3,291 All of the investrnent in¢oTne in 2024 related to unrestrided funds. Page11 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Charltable actlvltles Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Church actlvltles Coffeelsocial activities Guided tours 200 265 465 200 265 465 300 683 983 All ol the income from charitable activiiies in 2024 related to unrestricted funds. Other income Unr85trict8d Restricted Total Funds Total Fund5 Funds Funds 2025 2024 other income Fees Qoncerts Misc income 6.059 22,963 6,059 22,963 1,174 30.196 6,550 3,458 2,921 12.929 1,174 1.174 29.022 Of the other income in 2024, £11,727 related to unrestricted funds and £1,202 related to restricted funds. Page 12 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Expendlture Fundralslng Church activitles Total 2025 Total 2024 Direct cost5 Donorpoint I Surnup Secular local charities Diocesan Parish offering Other ministry costs Team clergy and secretarial Church running and routine maintenance Non-routine maintenance Churchyard upkeep Education & training Concerts Restricted fund costs Organ costs Organist fees 205 205 250 69,894 2,137 11,715 16,562 48,231 5,289 183 11,359 2,406 225 7,153 175,609 410 200 67,839 1,299 12,083 18,162 18.802 3,031 250 69,894 2,137 11,715 16,562 48.231 5,289 183 11,359 2,40fj 225 7,153 175,404 180 2,441 1.044 5,000 130,491 205 Support costs Bank charges Printing, postage and stationery Advertising Accountancy fees Independent examiner's lee Consult8noy fees Depreaation ol fixtures and liltings HeaUlighVwat8r costs Insurance Sundry costs 385 2,667 1.510 3,981 550 12,000 3,156 12,467 9,253 1.476 47,445 385 2,667 1,510 3,981 550 12,000 3,156 12,467 9,253 1,476 47,445 320 1,978 319 3,782 500 4,500 2,321 12,140 9,026 2.767 37,653 205 222,849 223,054 168,144 Of the expenditure in 2024, £108,302 related to unrestricted funds and £59,842 related to restricted funds. Page 13 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Governance costs 2025 2024 Accountancy fees Independent examinerfs fee 3,981 550 4.531 3,782 500 4.282 Trustees. remuneratlon and expenses Expenses of £2,27912024.. £2,570) in relation to Clergy expenses were paid to 2 12024 - 21 trustees in the year. Thgrg arg no other payrngnts to any PCC mernb8r, persons oonn8Ct8d to thgm or relat8d parti85. Taxation The registered charity is exempt from taxation on income and gains. 10 Tangibla fixad ass•ts Flxtures, fittlngs and equlpment Cost As at 1 January 2025 Additions As al 31 December 2025 52,687 5,662 58,349 Depreclatlon As at 1 January 2025 Charge for the year As at 31 Decetnber 2025 48,763 3,156 51,919 Net book value As at 31 De￿mber 2025 As at 31 De￿mber 2024 6,430 3,924 Page 14 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued 11 Investments held as flxed assets Investments in group and associated undertakings Unllsted investh)ents Total Market value As at 1 January 2025 Revaluation As at 31 Decetnber 2025 12,186 14881 11.698 12,187 14881 11,699 Net book Value As at 31 De￿mber 2025 As at 31 De￿mber 2024 11,698 12,186 11.699 12,187 All investment assets were held in the UK. The charity holds more than 20°/0 ol the share capital of the following company.. Country of incorporation Prlnclpal actlvlty Class Subsidiary undertakings Cartmel Priory Church Shop Lirnited United Kingdom Priory shop Ordinary 100 Capital & reserves Profivllossl for the period Subsldlary undertaklngs Cartmel Priory Church Shop Limited 6.719 12 Dèbtors 2025 2024 Trade debtors Amounts from subsidiary and associated undertakings 2.873 27,062 29,935 3.835 37,018 40,853 Page 15 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued 13 Credltors: Amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2025 2024 Trade creditors A¢cru8ls and deferrgd income 7,808 4.100 11.908 8,113 3.900 12,013 14 Operatlng lease commltments As at 31 December 2025 the charity had tot81 future minimum lease payrnents under non-c8ncellable operating leases 85 follows.. Other 2025 2024 Within one year Within two and five years 1,064 1,330 2.394 1,064 2,393 3.457 The amount of nOn-Can￿lIable operating lease payments recognised as an expense during ihe year was £1,06412024 - £1,064). 15 Related parties Controlling èntity The charity is controlled by the trustees. Related party transactions During the year a donation of £6,655 12024.. nill was received from Cartmel Priory Church Shop Ltd and recharges totalling £13,15812024.' £17,385) were made to the company from the charity. Page 16 o)woo ia rD o) ill. I ¢71 O(n LQ o>cN oin Tr (n (9J r£(fS>Li>LSO*£tfOlicy, which aims to restrict or prevent investment in companies whose main business interests are in landmines, cluster bombs and nuclear weapons, gambling, tobacco, alcohol, pornography, energy coal extraction or high interest credit. Structure, Governance and Management The Parochial Church Council of Cartmel is a corporate body established by The Church of England. It is part of the Diocese of Carlisle. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Powers Measure and is a charity registered with the Charity Commission. Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. The church encourages each attendee to register on the Electoral Roll and sland for election to the PCC. The Priory Trust CIO is independent trust which relates to the PCC. Cartrnel Priory Shop is a limited company and trading subsidi8ry of the PCC of Cartmel. Page 3 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Trustees. Responsibilities in relation to the Financial Statements The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees. Report and the finanaal statements in accordan￿ with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards. The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the truslees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs ol the charity and of the incoming resourtss and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistenuy,. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP., make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any m8teri81 departures disclosed and gxpl8ined in the fin8ncial statements,. and prepare the financial ststemenls on the going concem basis unless il is inappropriate lo presume that the charity will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position ol the charity and enable them lo ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022, the Charity IAccounts and Reports) Regulations and the provisions of the trust deed. They are responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hen￿ for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Page 5 Independent Examlner's Report to the Trustees of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cartmel I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. which are set out on pages 7 to 20. Your attention is to drawn lo the fact that the Charity has prepared ihe financial statements in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement ol Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has since been withdrawn. We understand that this has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordan￿ with the Generally A¢￿pted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019. Respective responsibilities of trustees and 8xamin8r The Charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144121 of the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022 (the Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to.. examine the accounts under section 145 of the Act., follow the protsdures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissic)n under section 145151 Ibl of the Act,. and state whether particu18r matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examinerfs report My ex8min8tion w85 carried out in accord8nce with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination inoludes 8 review of the acwunting records kgpt by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented wth those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees Con￿rning any such Matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide 811 the eviden￿ that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to wh8ther the accounts present a'tru8 and fair view and the report is limited to those matt8rs s8t out in th8 5tatern8nt below. Independent examinerfs ststement In connection with tny examination. no mattgr h85 wmg to Tny attention.. 111 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements.. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022., and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records, comply with the accounting requirernents of th8 Act have not been met., or 121 tc) which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. FIFTEEN Rosehill Montgomery Way Rosehill Estste CARLISLE CA1 2RW Joanne Thornlinson FCA Dodd & Co Limited Chartered Accountants 22 April 2026 Page 6 The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cartmel Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 Unrestrl¢ted Re$trl¢ted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Fund5 2025 2024 Note Income Don8tions and lega¢ies Investments 112.574 3,397 465 72.029 184.603 3,397 465 159,170 3,291 983 Charitable actiMt18S Other inwme 29,022 145.458 1,174 73.203 30,196 218,661 12,929 176.373 Total incom8 Expeniliture Raising funds Charitable actimties 205 149,637 149.842 205 410 167,734 168.144 73,212 73.212 222,849 223,054 Total 8xp8nditur8 Gross transfers betW88n funds 11,123 111,1231 Gain511105sesl on investment as5et5 12061 12821 14881 273 Net inwmellexpenditurel 6,533 111,4141 14,8811 8,502 Re¢on¢iliation of fund$ Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 117,223 123,756 51,344 39,930 168,567 160,065 168,567 163,686 The notes on pages 9 to 20 form an integral part ol these financial statements. Page 7 IB.I2 1Q111 123 i?.QlJJ 145E¥ 1tt493 IBll.5sr 1¥17 IBBYT The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 Accounting policies Statement of compllance The accounts (financial statementsl have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notelsl to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the second edition of the Charities Statement of Recornrnended Practice issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdorn and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022. The acoounls Ifin8nci81 staternentsl have been prepared to give a 'lrue and fair, view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide 8 'true and fair vi8w'. This departur8 ha5 invoIv8d following Accounting and Reporting by Chariti8s pr8paring their accounts in accordance with the Financi81 Reporting Stsnd8rd applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 rather than thg Accounting and Reporting by Charities'.St8ternent of Recommended Practice effedive frorn 1 April 2005 which has Sin￿ bgen withdrawn. Basis of Preparation The charity mgets the definition of a public b8n8fit 8ntity under FRS 102. Assets and li8bilitl8s arg initially recogni5ed at historical c05t or transaction value unless otherwis8 Stated in the r8levant accounting policy notes. Going ¢on¢ern These financial statements have been prepared on 8 going concern basis. Fund accounting policy Unrestricted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees, discretion in fvrtherance of the objectives of the Charity. Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose. Designated funds are unrestricted funds set aside at the discretion of the trustees lor specific purposes. Further detsils of each fund are disclosed in note 16. Income and endowments Income including donations, legacies and grants that provide core funding or are of a general nature is recognised where there is entitlement, probabilty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient Income from Govemrnent and other grants, whether'capital, grants or'revenue, grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the incorne will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred. Inctsming resources from tax reclaims are included in the statement of financial activities at the same time as the gift to which they relate. Inv85trn8nt incom8 is recognis8d on a r8C8ivabl8 bas1S. Income from charitable activities includes income recognised as earned las the relaied goods or serviTrs are provided) under contract. Page 9 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Expendlture Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity lo the expenditure. All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Costs of iaising funds are the costs of trading for fundraising purposes. Ch8rit8ble expenditure cornprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and Sgrvic85 for its ben8fici8ries. It inoludes both costs that can be allocated dir8ctly to such gctivitl8s and those costs of an indirect nature n8cessary to support th8m. Support Costs Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis nsistent with the use of resources, for example, allo¢8ting propety oosts by floor areas, or per ¢8pita, staff sts by the time spent and other Costs by th8ir usage. Fixed assets Individu81 fixed assets wsting £1000 or more are initially recorded at cost. Depreciation Depreoi8tion is provided on tsngible fixed assets so as to write off th8 Cost or valuation, less any estirnated residu81 value, over their exp8Ctgd useful economio lifg as follows.. Fixtures, liltings and equipment 4 years straight line basis Cash and Cash Equivalent$ Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-tetm highly liquid investrnents that are readily oonv8rtible to 8 known 8rnOLJnt of cash and are subject to insignificant risk of chang8 in value. Investm8nts Fixed assgt investrnents gre inGludgd at tngrket valug at the balance shget date. Realised gains and losses (>n investments are calculated as the difference between sales proceeds and their atket value at the start of the year, or their subsequent C05t, and are charged or cred(ted to the statetnent of the financial activities in the period of disp05al. Unrealised gains and losses represent the movement in market values during the year and are credited or charged to the statement (>f financial activities based on the market value at the year end. 0￿ratIng lèasès Rentals payable under operating leases are charged in the statement of financial activities on a stiaight line basis over the lease term. Page 10 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Donatlons and legacles Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Donatlons and legacles Legaci85 and b8qU8Sts Donations Donations from Church shop Donorpoint giving Planned giving Qollections Gift aid envelopes Gift Aid tax r8claimed Boxes Misc income 2,921 30,882 6,359 2,921 31,948 6,359 13,634 16,219 1,06fj 276 21.743 4,015 6,643 10,594 21,055 40 94,219 20.189 6,592 6,376 12,490 16,940 20.189 6,592 6,376 12,490 16,940 102,749 1,066 103,815 Grants Q8rtmel Priory Trust cio Listed place of worship Carbon net zero 67,963 67,963 9,825 3.000 80,788 61,551 3,400 9,825 3.000 70,963 9,825 64,951 112,574 72,029 184,603 159,170 Of the donations and legacies income in 2024, £90,587 related tts unrestricted funds and £68,583 related to 185tricted funds. Investments Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Interest on cash depr)sits 3,397 3,397 3,291 All of the investrnent in¢oTne in 2024 related to unrestrided funds. Page11 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Charltable actlvltles Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Church actlvltles Coffeelsocial activities Guided tours 200 265 465 200 265 465 300 683 983 All ol the income from charitable activiiies in 2024 related to unrestricted funds. Other income Unr85trict8d Restricted Total Funds Total Fund5 Funds Funds 2025 2024 other income Fees Qoncerts Misc income 6.059 22,963 6,059 22,963 1,174 30.196 6,550 3,458 2,921 12.929 1,174 1.174 29.022 Of the other income in 2024, £11,727 related to unrestricted funds and £1,202 related to restricted funds. Page 12 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Expendlture Fundralslng Church activitles Total 2025 Total 2024 Direct cost5 Donorpoint I Surnup Secular local charities Diocesan Parish offering Other ministry costs Team clergy and secretarial Church running and routine maintenance Non-routine maintenance Churchyard upkeep Education & training Concerts Restricted fund costs Organ costs Organist fees 205 205 250 69,894 2,137 11,715 16,562 48,231 5,289 183 11,359 2,406 225 7,153 175,609 410 200 67,839 1,299 12,083 18,162 18.802 3,031 250 69,894 2,137 11,715 16,562 48.231 5,289 183 11,359 2,40fj 225 7,153 175,404 180 2,441 1.044 5,000 130,491 205 Support costs Bank charges Printing, postage and stationery Advertising Accountancy fees Independent examiner's lee Consult8noy fees Depreaation ol fixtures and liltings HeaUlighVwat8r costs Insurance Sundry costs 385 2,667 1.510 3,981 550 12,000 3,156 12,467 9,253 1.476 47,445 385 2,667 1,510 3,981 550 12,000 3,156 12,467 9,253 1,476 47,445 320 1,978 319 3,782 500 4,500 2,321 12,140 9,026 2.767 37,653 205 222,849 223,054 168,144 Of the expenditure in 2024, £108,302 related to unrestricted funds and £59,842 related to restricted funds. Page 13 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued Governance costs 2025 2024 Accountancy fees Independent examinerfs fee 3,981 550 4.531 3,782 500 4.282 Trustees. remuneratlon and expenses Expenses of £2,27912024.. £2,570) in relation to Clergy expenses were paid to 2 12024 - 21 trustees in the year. Thgrg arg no other payrngnts to any PCC mernb8r, persons oonn8Ct8d to thgm or relat8d parti85. Taxation The registered charity is exempt from taxation on income and gains. 10 Tangibla fixad ass•ts Flxtures, fittlngs and equlpment Cost As at 1 January 2025 Additions As al 31 December 2025 52,687 5,662 58,349 Depreclatlon As at 1 January 2025 Charge for the year As at 31 Decetnber 2025 48,763 3,156 51,919 Net book value As at 31 De￿mber 2025 As at 31 De￿mber 2024 6,430 3,924 Page 14 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued 11 Investments held as flxed assets Investments in group and associated undertakings Unllsted investh)ents Total Market value As at 1 January 2025 Revaluation As at 31 Decetnber 2025 12,186 14881 11.698 12,187 14881 11,699 Net book Value As at 31 De￿mber 2025 As at 31 De￿mber 2024 11,698 12,186 11.699 12,187 All investment assets were held in the UK. The charity holds more than 20°/0 ol the share capital of the following company.. Country of incorporation Prlnclpal actlvlty Class Subsidiary undertakings Cartmel Priory Church Shop Lirnited United Kingdom Priory shop Ordinary 100 Capital & reserves Profivllossl for the period Subsldlary undertaklngs Cartmel Priory Church Shop Limited 6.719 12 Dèbtors 2025 2024 Trade debtors Amounts from subsidiary and associated undertakings 2.873 27,062 29,935 3.835 37,018 40,853 Page 15 The Parochlal Church Councll of the Eccleslastlcal Parlsh of Cartmel Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025 . continued 13 Credltors: Amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2025 2024 Trade creditors A¢cru8ls and deferrgd income 7,808 4.100 11.908 8,113 3.900 12,013 14 Operatlng lease commltments As at 31 December 2025 the charity had tot81 future minimum lease payrnents under non-c8ncellable operating leases 85 follows.. Other 2025 2024 Within one year Within two and five years 1,064 1,330 2.394 1,064 2,393 3.457 The amount of nOn-Can￿lIable operating lease payments recognised as an expense during ihe year was £1,06412024 - £1,064). 15 Related parties Controlling èntity The charity is controlled by the trustees. Related party transactions During the year a donation of £6,655 12024.. nill was received from Cartmel Priory Church Shop Ltd and recharges totalling £13,15812024.' £17,385) were made to the company from the charity. Page 16 o)woo ia rD o) ill. I ¢71 O(n LQ o>cN oin Tr (n (9J r£(fS>Li>LSO*£tfO