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2025-12-31-accounts

Annual Report and Financial Statements of the

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

for the year ended 31 December 2025

Team Rector:

The Reverend Dr David Munchin The Rectory 2 Ottway Walk Welwyn Herts AL6 9AS

Bank:

Barclays Bank plc The Welwyn Group 12/12A The Howard Centre Welwyn Garden City Herts AL8 6ER

Independent Examiner:

Julian Hobbs & Co Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisors 2 The Quadrangle Welwyn Garden City Herts AL8 6SG

Registered Charity no. 1130415

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2025

Aim and purposes

The PCC of the parish has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent, the Rev’d Canon Dr David Munchin, in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, including its pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical vision. It also has the maintenance responsibilities for St Mary the Virgin, Welwyn, St Michael and All Angels, Woolmer Green, 14 White Cross Drive, Woolmer Green, and Church House.

Objectives and Activities

The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship in our two churches and to become part of our parish community. The PCC maintains an overview of worship throughout the parish and makes suggestions on how our services can involve the many groups that live within our parish. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer, scripture, music and sacrament.

When planning our activities for the year, the incumbent and the PCC considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the specific guidance for charities on the advancement of religion. Primarily, we try to enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through:

To facilitate this work, it is important that we maintain the fabric of our two churches, 14 White Cross Drive and Church House.

Plans for the future

Our new Mission Action Plan from 2023 has highlighted three areas that need attention over the next 3-5 years. Firstly, financial stability, particularly after the high rise in costs in the first half of 2023. A stewardship appeal made good inroads into a projected deficit. It has been decided that an annual ‘giving weekend’ that focusses on stewardship would be a good way to maintain momentum, this happened with good results in May 2024 and in 2025. Secondly was a revitalising of our work with children. Junior church is now on a more stable footing with regular volunteers and material, there are also a very good increase in numbers in this. There are also the continuing Choral Scholarships for older children. Our third aim was to look at starting a more informal service on the fourth Sunday morning.This was begun in the autumn of 2024 and has so far proved successful and popular.

Achievements and Performance

Worship and Prayer

All are welcome to attend our regular services. At present, there are 256 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll.

The PCC is keen to offer a range of services during the week that our community finds both beneficial and spiritually fulfilling. Quiet spoken Eucharist services are held on weekdays and on Sunday mornings. Sung Eucharist services are held every Sunday morning and on major festivals. On the fourth Sunday this has now become a well-established Café style service. Evensong services are held in St Mary’s on the second, fourth and fifth Sundays of each month, with this generally being choral on the second Sunday. Services especially aimed at families and young children are held on a regular basis, usually in the more informal setting of Church House, such as the bi-monthly 40-minute pram service. Monthly services are held at various care homes and day centres for the elderly throughout the parish.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2025 (continued)

Achievements and Performance (continued)

Special preparation classes are run for those who wish to get married in the churches and for those wishing to have their children baptised. Baptisms take place during normal Sunday morning services, enabling families to be welcomed by the church community. This is usually on the fourth Sunday of the month.

We have a notable choral tradition, which enhances worship. We have a large and able choir, complete with children and young people, offering an outstanding musical contribution to our worship. Over the past year this has seen further development, not least in the offering of an organ scholarship.

Pastoral Care

There is a trained team within the congregation to provide Baptism preparation and a team to welcome newcomers and visitors. Pastoral care is largely provided by the clergy, and informally by members of the congregation on an ad hoc basis.

A Memorial service is held annually in November at St Mary’s for those who have been bereaved during past years. This is followed by refreshments and a time for fellowship and support.

Mission and Outreach

The PCC has a policy of making donations to local, national and international charities, mostly through the fundraising work of church members, equivalent to at least 15% of the annual voluntary donations received by St Mary’s. This target was met in 2025 – see Note 4 for further details.

Each year the parish produces 10 issues of the Welwyn Magazine with Woolmer Green, which contains both church and local information. It is sold widely throughout the parish.

The Welwyn Community Café, set up in November 2009 in conjunction with the Welwyn Parish Action Plan Group and in line with the Welwyn Parish Plan, has continued to be successful. The café runs most Tuesday mornings, from 10am until noon, in Church House. Church House also provides a venue for other community groups, such as a twice-weekly sewing and knitting group, a bridge club and a monthly community lunch.

There are many opportunities for Bible Study and other forms of Christian education; the website and the weekly pew bulletin give extensive details of these.

We take a key role as participant and venue in Welwyn Week. In addition, the parish runs a walking group, two book groups, a theatre group, and Saturday Breakfast events, which are open to church and non-church members. We produced a successful pantomime in 2025, which was well attended, entertaining and raised money for a charity. Further details of activities and up to date information can be found on our website.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2025 (continued)

Financial Review

Income

Total income was £250,678 (2024: £241,024 ). This increase was mainly due to the interest of £9,670 received on the remaining balance following the sale of St Michael’s House, London Road, Woolmer Green in 2024 and the purchase of 14 White Cross Drive, Woolmer Green, in March 2025.

There was a very small increase in regular giving to £121,311 (2024: £120,637), one off donations increased to £4,355 (2024: £3,571) and “open plate” collections to £7,875 (2024: £6,243). However, there was a decrease in income tax recoverable to £31,189 (2024: £33,598). The popular monthly Saturday recitals at St Mary’s raised £6,501.99 (2024: £5,558) after deduction of expenses. The PCC received legacies of £1,000 (2024: £5,254 ) and grants of £500 (2024: £250) .

Income from charitable activities decreased to £20,134 (2024: £22,992) however income from other trading activities greatly increased to £34,570 (2024: £27,199) , thanks to healthy increases in lettings income from both Church House and St Michael’s Church, at just under £7,000 each.

We are very grateful for all those in the church community who generously donate their money, time and talents – all of which enable the running costs of the buildings to be met and the church’s mission in the two communities of Welwyn and Woolmer Green to continue.

Expenditure

Total expenditure was £244,609 (2024: £245,755 ). Utility costs were less at £21,217 (2024: £24,060), as were costs for the upkeep of services at £3,428 (2024: £4,857) . However, other areas saw an increase in costs, the largest component being church maintenance at £16,025 (2024: £9,837), indicating the increasing task of maintaining the two church buildings. As mentioned above, 14 White Cross Drive, Woolmer Green was purchased in March 2025 to house a curate. This four-bedroom semi-detached property was purchased at a price of £542,529 using the funds held following the sale of St Michael’s House, London Road, Woolmer Green in 2024.

Summary

Overall, the charity recorded a surplus of £5,846 (2024: deficit of £4,606 ). There was capital expenditure of £1,270 (2024: £6,020 ). The cash balances (in bank and deposit accounts) fell to £262,111 (2024: £799,698), with the majority of the reduction due to the purchase of 14 White Cross Drive, Woolmer Green.

Reserves

The charity’s total funds rose to £895,295 (2024: £889,413) of which restricted and endowment funds are £7,907 (2024: £8,169) . Designated unrestricted funds for emergency expenditure and capital for church groups and activities rose to £56,751 (2024: £49,639) . General unrestricted funds dropped to £192,845 (2024: £203,369) .

Unrestricted cash reserves (i.e. undesignated money freely available to spend on the charity’s purposes) are £107,447 (2024: £119,250) . The PCC’s reserves policy is to hold sufficient unrestricted cash reserves to cover at least four months' operating expenses, which the trustees believe will provide stability for the charity, and they are satisfied with its current position.

Risk Assessment Policy

The PCC is actively involved in the day-to-day running of the charity. Its members have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and have satisfied themselves that systems have been established, or that other appropriate measures have been taken, to mitigate those risks, insofar as is reasonably practicable, but it is recognised that systems cannot give absolute assurance that risks have been eliminated. Training of trustees and volunteers has been provided to mitigate the safeguarding risks associated with young people.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2025 (continued)

The PCC is aware of its duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have regard to House of Bishops guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults). It has appointed Safeguarding Officers for each church and approved the House of Bishops’ Model Policies for safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults (this is done annually and the policies are displayed in the churches, with additional information). In addition, at each meeting a report is given on any safeguarding incidents. No safeguarding incidents occurred in 2025.

Matters associated with financial losses have been identified as a risk too. Because regular monthly expenditure exceeds regular monthly giving income, there is a reliance on one-off donations, legacies and appeals to raise sufficient funds to break even. Please see the above section on ‘Plans for the future’ and Mission Action Planning for information on how we are attending to this.

Volunteers

The PCC appreciates and thanks all the volunteers, at both St Mary’s and St Michael’s, who give their time and effort so willingly.

Structure, governance and management

Members of the PCC are either ex-officio or elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. 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. Given its wide responsibilities, the PCC operates through a number of action groups and committees, most of which meet on a regular basis.

Standing Committee

This is the only committee required by law. It has power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

Fabric Action Group

This group deals with the maintenance, repair and development of the church buildings, 14 White Cross Drive and Church House.

Giving Action Group

GAG deals with the allocation of donations to chosen charities, both at home and abroad, and is responsible for encouraging parishioners to commit to regular giving, both of time and money, to ensure the well-being of the church and its functions.

Church House Management Action Group

This group is responsible for the management, maintenance and usage of Church House.

St Michael’s Meeting

This acts like an Action Group and deals with all matters relevant to St Michael’s Church.

As the PCC has ultimate responsibility for a wide range of matters affecting the parish, it is important that the PCC adopts appropriate training procedures. Training courses arranged by the diocese are attended by a PCC representative who reports back to the PCC as a body, with any relevant reading matter being distributed.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2025 (continued)

Administrative information

The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2006). The Charities Act 2006 removed ‘excepted status’ from charities with incomes over £100,000 and therefore, during 2010, the PCC was required to register as a charity with the Charity Commission; its registration number is 1130415. The PCC’s administrative office is located at St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Welwyn, AL6 9LX.

During 2025, the following served as members of the PCC:

Incumbent: Rev’d David Munchin (Chairman)
Clergy: Rev’d Will Ellis_(appointed May 2025)_
Rev’d Christie Gillfeather_(resigned January 2025)_
Readers: Mr John Burnapp
Mr Colin Hull (Deanery Synod Rep.)
Mrs Usha Hull
Church Wardens: Mrs Nita Gowans – St Michael’s, Woolmer Green_(appointed May 2025)_
Mrs Diane Jenkin – St Mary’s, Welwyn
Mr Stuart Westley – St Mary’s, Welwyn
Mrs Rachel Wadey – St Michael’s, Woolmer Green_(appointed May 2025)_
Deanery Synod Reps: Mrs Vernonne Allan
Mrs Mavis Francis
Elected Members: Mrs Christine Allday_(resigned March 2025)_
Mrs Georgina Beck
Mrs Jacqueline Davis
Mrs Elizabeth Hesketh
Mr Stuart Jenkin
Dr Glynis Johnston_(appointed May 2025)_
Ms Crystal Lam
Mrs Helen McKay
Mrs Joan Shelley
Mrs Margaret Varco_(resigned May 2025)_

Secretary (not a PCC member): Mrs Louise Hughes

Signed on behalf of the PCC by

………………………………………….. The Rev'd Dr David Munchin (Chairman)

……………………….. Date

Independent Examiner’s Report to the members/trustees of the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

I report to the charity’s trustees on my examination of the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent Examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust, as required by section 130 of the 2011 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Julian Hobbs & Co Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisors 2 The Quadrangle Welwyn Garden City Herts AL8 6SG

………………………………………….. Julian Hobbs & Co

……………………….. Date

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Statement of Financial Activities

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Unrestricted Restricted Endowment 2025
 2024
Funds Funds Funds TOTAL TOTAL
Note £ £ £ £ £
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:
Donations and legacies 2a 179,458 1,160 - 180,618 185,130
Charitable activities 2b 19,934 - - 19,934 22,992
Other trading activities 2c 34,570 - - 34,570 27,199
Investments 2d 15,401 - 155 15,556 4,718
Insurance claim 2e - - - - 985
TOTAL INCOME 249,363 1,160 155 250,678 241,024
EXPENDITURE ON:
Raising funds 3a 3,967 - - 3,967 4,921
Charitable activities 3b 239,288
1,199		 155 240,642 239,632
Other costs – loss on disposal of fixed assets 3c - - - **- ** 1,202
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 243,255 1,199 155 244,609 245,755
NET INCOME 6,108 (39) - 6,069 (4,731).
NET GAINS ON INVESTMENTS 7 - - (223) (223) 125
TRANSFERS BETWEEN FUNDS - - - - -
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 6,108 (39) (223) 5,846 (4,606)
BALANCES BROUGHT FORWARD
AT 1 JANUARY 2025 881,244 2,574 5,595 889,413 894,019
BALANCES CARRIED FORWARD
AT 31 DECEMBER 2025 887,352 2,535 5,372 895,259 889,413

The notes on the pages following the balance sheet form part of these accounts

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Balance Sheet at 31 December 2025

Balance Sheet at 31 December 2025 Balance Sheet at 31 December 2025
Note
2025
£
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
6

Fixed asset investments
7


CURRENT ASSETS
Stock
0
Debtors
8
16,684
Short term deposits
222,576
Cash at bank and in hand
39
,535
278,795
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING
DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
9
(9
,813)
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL NET ASSETS
FUNDS OF THE CHARITY
Expendable endowment funds
11c
Restricted funds
11c
Unrestricted funds
11c
Revaluation reserve
11c

TOTAL CHARITY FUNDS		 2024
£
£
620,905

5
,372
626,277
0
7,878
744,434
55
,264
807,576
(8
,404)
268
,982
895
,259
5,372
2,535
344,823
542
,529
895
,259		 £
84,646
5
,595
90,241
799
,172
889
,413
5,595
2,574
881,244
0
889
,413

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on ……………………………. and signed on its behalf by:

…………………………………………… The Rev’d Dr David Munchin (Chairman)

The notes on the pages following the balance sheet form part of these accounts

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, together with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) (‘the SORP’). The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of the Charities SORP (FRS 102).

The financial statements have been prepared under the historic cost convention, modified by the revaluation of investments and land and buildings, which are shown at fair value.

The presentation currency of the financial statements is the Pound Sterling (£).

Going concern

The Trustees believe that the charity’s financial resources and contingency planning is sufficient to ensure the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future, being at least twelve months from the date of approval of these financial statements and therefore have prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis.

Funds

General unrestricted funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted.

Restricted funds are those funds that must be spent for restricted purposes and details of the funds held and restrictions are provided in Note 11. Endowment funds, where the capital must be retained, are also explained in Note 11.

The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body, or those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Income and Endowments

The following gives details of how and when income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities

Donations and legacies

Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC.

Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognised when received.

Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the income is recognised.

Grants, legacies and endowment income are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement, the amount due is quantifiable and its ultimate receipt is reasonably certain.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Donations and legacies (continued)

Donated services are included in income (and at the same time in resources expended) at the estimated value to the PCC of the service received.

Charitable and other trading activities

Rental income from letting church premises is recognised when the rent becomes due. Funds raised by social events are accounted for gross, after the event has taken place. Sales of books and magazines from the church bookstall are accounted for gross, when received.

Income from investments

Dividends are accounted for when due and payable. Interest is accounted for when received.

Gains and losses on investments

Realised gains and losses are recognised when investments are sold. Unrealised gains and losses are accounted for on the revaluation of investments at 31 December each year.

Expenditure

The financial statements have been prepared under the accruals basis, inclusive of any irrecoverable VAT. Expenditure and any related liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation and settlement is probable and quantifiable.

Donations

Donations are recognised when a commitment has been made externally.

Other costs

Governance costs include the cost of the independent examination of these accounts, the costs of trustee meetings and any legal advice to trustees on governance or constitutional matters.

Pensions

The charity contributes to a defined contribution pension scheme for its staff members. Contributions payable to the scheme are charged to the SOFA as incurred.

Fixed assets

Consecrated property and movable church furnishings

Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by section 10(2)(a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011.

Movable church furnishings held by the Rector and Church Wardens on special trust for the PCC, and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted for as inalienable property, unless consecrated. They are listed in the church’s inventory, which can be inspected at any reasonable time. For inalienable property acquired prior to 2001, there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Fixed assets - Consecrated property and movable church furnishings (continued)

Items acquired since 1 January 2001 have been capitalised and depreciated in the financial statements over their currently anticipated useful economic life on a straight-line basis. All expenditure incurred in the year on consecrated or beneficed buildings, or individual items costing less than £1,000, or on the repair of movable church furnishings acquired before 1 January 2001, is written off when incurred.

Freehold land and buildings

Freehold land and buildings owned by the PCC are carried at cost. Depreciation is not charged on freehold land, as land has an indefinite useful economic life. Depreciation is not charged on the freehold buildings element where the trustees have assessed that the residual value of the asset is not materially less than its carrying amount.

In respect of 14 White Cross Drive, Woolmer Green, the trustees have assessed the residual value of the property as at least equal to its carrying value of £542,529. This assessment reflects the fact that the property is a residential freehold in good condition, purchased at open market value in March 2025, situated in a location where residential property values are stable. On this basis the depreciation charge for the year is nil.

Other fixtures, fittings and office equipment

Equipment used within the church premises is depreciated on a straight-line basis over five years for office equipment and ten years for Church House and church equipment. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £250 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset and is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities. An impairment review is carried out at each year-end and any resultant loss identified and included in expenditure for the year.

Investments

Listed investments are included at market value at the Balance Sheet date.

Net gains/losses arising on the revaluation and disposal of investments are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities. Income deriving from these investments is accounted for on a receivable basis and is recognised through the Statement of Financial Activities.

Current assets

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rents or other income are shown as debtors, less a provision for amounts that may prove uncollectable. Stock is stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand and deposits held at call with banks. Short term deposits consist of cash held on deposit with the CBF Church of England Funds or other PCC-approved institutions.

Financial instruments

The PCC has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Accounting for financial assets and financial liabilities’ of the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 2019 to all its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors, are initially measured at transaction price, including transaction costs, and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, when the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Government grant income

Grants from government bodies and other sources are received for specific purposes and are recognised in accordance with their individual terms and conditions. Income is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, which is when any performance conditions attached are met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be reliably measured. Grant income will be deferred if received in advance of meeting performance conditions or if the funder specifically states that the income must be spent in a future accounting period.

Operating leases

Costs in respect of operating leases are charged on a straight line basis over the lease term.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

2
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
2a Donations and Legacies
Regular giving
One off donations
Online and card reader donations
“Open plate” collections at services
Sundry donations
Income tax recoverable
Grants received
Legacies
2b_Charitable Activities_
Fees for Weddings, Funerals etc
Choir
Coffee
Church groups and activities:
Arpeggios
Bell Ringers
Fellowship
Flowers
Parish Magazine Sales
2c Other trading activities
Church and Church House lettings
Fetes, bazaars and other fund-raising events
Church groups and activities:
Bookstall
Parish Magazine Advertisements
2d_Investments_
Dividends and interest
_2e_Insurance claim
TOTAL INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
TOTALTOTAL
Funds
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
£
121,311
-
121,311
120,637
3,195
1,160
-
4,355
3,571
9,287
-
-
9,287
11,010
7,875
-
-
7,875
6,243
4,901
-
-
4,901
4,567
31,189
-
-
31,189
33,598
500
-
-
500
250
1,000
-
-
1,000
5,254
179,258
1,160
-
180,418
185,130
10,931
-
-
10,931
10,662
-
-
-
-
-
1,790
-
-
1,790
1,580
200
-
-
200
-
571
-
-
571
836
304
-
-
304
465
1,105
-
-
1,105
4,115
5,233
-
-
5,233
5,334
20,134
-
-
20,134
22,992
13,905
-
-
13,905
10,282
10,352
-
-
10,352
8,120
83
-
-
83
218
10,230
-
-
10,230
8,579
34,570
-
-
34,570
27,199
15,401
-
155
15,556
4,718
-
-
-
-
985
249,363
1,160
155
250,678
241,024

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

3
EXPENDITURE
3_a Raising funds_
Fetes, bazaars, other fund-raising events
3b Charitable activities
Mission giving and donations
Ministry:
Diocesan parish share
Clergy expenses
Church running expenses:
Salaries
Insurance
Utilities
Other running costs
Upkeep of services
Subcontract costs – verger and organists
Church maintenance
Upkeep of churchyard
Major repairs/replacements
Church House costs
St Michael’s House, London Road
Training and Mission
Youth costs
Choir expenditure
Depreciation of New Church House equipment
Depreciation of Church equipment
Depreciation of St. Michael’s House equipment
Bank charges
Independent examination fee
Church groups and activities costs:
Arpeggios
Bell Ringers
Bookstall
Fellowship
Flowers
Parish Magazine
3c Other costs – loss on disposal of fixed assets
TOTAL EXPENDITURE		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
TOTALTOTAL
Funds
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
£
3,968
-
-
3,968
4,921
10,473
-
-
10,473
8,620
128,088
-
-
128,088
126,699
2,011
-
-
2,011
2,294
15,864
-
-
15,864
14,630
6,735
-
-
6,735
5,887
21,217
-
-
21,217
24,060
4,664
-
-
4,664
4,248
6,078
-
-
6,078
7,704
9,779
-
-
9,779
9,020
15,378
647
-
16,025
9,837
2,599
-
155
2,754
2,754
-
-
-
-
-
2,186
552
-
2,738
3,191
123 - -123
257
-
-
-
-
-
392
-
-
392
386
1,661
-
-
1,661
2,518
689
-
-
689
389
6,851
-
-
6,851
9,260
-
-
-
-
-
285
-
-
285
389
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
254
-
-
254
576
-
-
-
-
376
-
-
-
-
-
858
-
-
858
3,035
3,102
-
-
3,102
3,502
239,287
1,199
155
240,641
239,632
-
-
-
-
1,202
243,255
1,199
155
244,609
245,755		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
TOTALTOTAL
Funds
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
£
3,968
-
-
3,968
4,921
10,473
-
-
10,473
8,620
128,088
-
-
128,088
126,699
2,011
-
-
2,011
2,294
15,864
-
-
15,864
14,630
6,735
-
-
6,735
5,887
21,217
-
-
21,217
24,060
4,664
-
-
4,664
4,248
6,078
-
-
6,078
7,704
9,779
-
-
9,779
9,020
15,378
647
-
16,025
9,837
2,599
-
155
2,754
2,754
-
-
-
-
-
2,186
552
-
2,738
3,191
123 - -123
257
-
-
-
-
-
392
-
-
392
386
1,661
-
-
1,661
2,518
689
-
-
689
389
6,851
-
-
6,851
9,260
-
-
-
-
-
285
-
-
285
389
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
254
-
-
254
576
-
-
-
-
376
-
-
-
-
-
858
-
-
858
3,035
3,102
-
-
3,102
3,502
239,287
1,199
155
240,641
239,632
-
-
-
-
1,202
243,255
1,199
155
244,609
245,755
243,255
1,199
155
244,609
245,755

During the year, two clergy ( 2024: two ) were reimbursed expenses totalling £2,011 ( 2024: £2,294 ), relating mainly to travel and other costs incurred on behalf of church ministry.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

4 MISSIONARY AND CHARITABLE GIVING

The two churches donated £10,473 directly to a variety of charities in the UK and abroad (see table below). In addition, £6,538 ( 2024: £6,386 ) was raised for charities as a result of fundraising activities organised by the churches.

Support of disadvantaged people - UK
Support of disadvantaged people - Overseas
Natural disaster appeals - Overseas
Total donations to Institutions		 Donations
No. of
institutions/
individuals
2025
2024
2025
2024
£
£
3,150
3,244
7
12
7,173
5,376
5
9
150
-
1
-
10,473
8,620
13
21
5
STAFF COSTS
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 2025
£
15,436
-
428
15,864		 2024
£
14,200
-
430
14,630

A voluntary Director of Music was in post and the PCC contracted for the services of a verger and relief organists, who are paid on a contractor basis on presentation of their invoices. No-one on the payroll, nor the verger or relief organists, earned £60,000 pa or more. The average number of employees during the year was 3 ( 2024 : 3).

The church operates a defined contribution pension scheme which is available for all staff to join.

There were no other disclosable transactions in respect of PCC members, persons closely connected with them or other related parties.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

6 TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

St. Mary’s &
St Michael’s Churches
Freehold Church and St. Michael’s
land and Office House House
buildings equipment equipment equipment TOTAL
£ £ £ £
 £
ACTUAL COST OR VALUATION
At 1 January 2025 0 6,985 38,421 207,598
253,004
Additions/disposals 542,529 1,270 543,799
Disposals - - - -
 -
At 31 December 2025 542
,529		 6
,985		 38
,421		 208
,868
796,803
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January 2025 - 6,727 34,784 126,846
168,357
Charge for the year - 69 689 6,782
7,540
Disposals - - -
 -
 -
At 31 December 2025
-		 6
,796		 35
,473		 133
,628
175,897
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2024 0 258 3
,637		 80
,751
84,646
At 31 December 2025 542
,529		 189 2
,948		 75
,240
620,905

The proceeds of the sale (2024) of St Michael’s House, London Road, Woolmer Green, were held in a CCLA CBF Deposit fund account by the diocese, were used to purchase 14 White Cross Drive, Woolmer Green in March 2025.

7
INVESTMENTS
Quoted Investments:
Investments at 1 January 2025
Unrealised gains – increase in market value
Balance at 31 December 2025
Historic cost		 2025
£
5,595
(
223
)
5
,372
300		 2024
£
5,470
125
5
,595
300

Represented by 242 (2024: 242) shares in the CBF Church of England Investment Fund.

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

8
DEBTORS
2025
£
Income tax recoverable
8,192
Other debtors
1,936

Prepayments and accrued income
6,556

16,684
9
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
2025
£
Deferred income
-
Trade creditors
3,191
Accruals
4,782
Other creditors
1,840
9,813		 2024
£
5,222
1,729
927
7,878
2024
£
350
387
4,378
3,289
8,404

10 FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS

The future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, in respect of other equipment, is as follows:

Payable within 1 year
Payable between 1 and 5 years		 2025
£
1,015
-
1,015		 2024
£
1,015
875
1,890

11 FUND DETAILS

11a Analysis of net assets by fund category at 31 December 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
Fixed Assets for Church use
620,905
-
-
Investment Fixed Assets
-
-
5,372
Current Assets
276,260
2,535
-
Current Liabilities
(9,813)
-
-
Fund Balances
887,352
2,535
5,372		 Total
£
620,905
5,372
278,795
(9,813)
895,259

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Welwyn and Woolmer Green

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

11 FUND DETAILS (continued)

11b Description of funds

Endowment fund

The St Michael’s Churchyard Endowment fund is a permanent endowment that requires income to be spent on the grave of Stanley Victor Sales.

Restricted funds

Restricted funds
Fund Purpose of fund– to pay for: Movements during the year
St. Mary’s Memorial
Garden		 New tools and gardening
equipment		 £98 was spent on flowers.
St Mary’s Organ Repair costs £141 was spent on repairs
St Mary’s Fabric Fabric expenditure A donation of £960 was given to repair
the path light (£408) and purchase two
coffee machines (£552).
St Michael’s Fabric Fabric expenditure A donation of £200 was given towards
the new sound system (to be installed in
2026).

Designated funds

Designated funds

Fund		 Purpose of fund– to pay for: Movements during the year
St Mary’s Reserve Fabric expenditure and emergency
works		 £689 was received from the Community
lunches was spent on maintaining the
fabric of the church.
Curate’s House
(formerly St Michael’s
House)		 Fabric expenditure and emergency
works		 £123 was spent on a boiler service.
Curate’s House
purchase		 For purchase of new property 14 White Cross Drive was purchased in
March 2025 at £542,529. £9,670 of
interest was also received.
St Mary’s commission
for altar frontals and
vestments		 Commission using the John
Sainsbury legacy		 No income or expenditure.
Youth Youth work £393 was spent on the Urban Saints
programme, Play & Praise and St Mary’s
Summer club.
St Mary’s Music Music and choir expenses £6,501 was received from Saturday
recitals. £1,305 was spent on new hymn
books and choral scholars.
The remaining
designated funds		 To provide working capital for
various church groups and
activities		 See 11c Funds balances and movements
for the year.

11 FUND DETAILS (continued)

11c Funds balances and movements for the year

Fund Name Opening Balance
1/1/25		 Movements during the year Movements during the year Movements during the year Movements during the year Closing balance
31/12/25
In Out Transfers Investment
gains
REVALUATION RESERVE
Property 14 White Cross Drive (Curate's House) 0 0 0 542,529 0 542,529
ENDOWMENT FUND
St Michaels Church Yard (Sales Grave Trust) 5,595 155 (155) 0 (223) 5,372
RESTRICTED FUNDS
St. Mary's Memorial Garden
St. Mary's Organ
St Mary's Fabric
St Michael's Fabric		 492
2,082
0
0		 0
0
960
200		 (98)
(141)
(960)
0		 0
0
0
0		 394
1,941
0
200
TOTAL RESTRICTED FUNDS 2,574 1,160 (1,199) 0 0 2,535
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Designated:
St. Mary's Reserve
St Michael's fabric
Curate's House (formerly St. Michael's House)
Commission for altar frontals and vestments at St.
Mary's
Youth
St Mary's Music (formerly Choir)
Curate's House Purchase
Designated for church groups and activities:
Arpeggios Hand Bell Ringers
St. Mary's Bell Ringers
St. Mary's Flowers
Parish Magazine
Total designated
**General unrestricted ***		 18,350
0
8,761
3,600
1,179
9,173
628,236
245
4,563
348
3,419
677,874
203,369		 689
0
0
0
0
6,501
9,670
200
571
1,105
15,162
33,898
215,465		 (689)
(123)
0
(383)
(1,305)
0
0
(254)
(859)
(3,102)
(6,715)
(236,540)		 (542,529)
0
0
(400)
(10,000)
(552,929)
10,400		 0
0
0		 18,350
0
8,638
3,600
796
14,369
95,377
445
4,880
194
5,479
152,128
192,694
TOTAL UNRESTRICTED FUNDS 881,244 249,363 (243,255) (542,529) 0 344,823
CHARITY'S TOTAL FUNDS 889,413 250,678 (244,609) 0 (223) 895,259

*** General unrestricted fund breakdown**

Opening Balance
1/1/25		 Closing
Balance
31/12/25
Cash 119,250 107,447
Fixed assets (netbook value) 84,646 78,376
Debtors 7,878 16,684
Liabilities (8,405) (9,813)
TOTAL 203,369 192,694