2024-12-31-accounts

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

,

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

CHARITY REGISTRATION NO. 1130528

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a
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VICAR

The Reverend Michael Print

BANKERS

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The Royal Bank of Scotland plc
Customer Service Centre
Drummond House
1 Redheughs Avenue
Edinburgh
EH12 9JN
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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER The Reverend Alan A. Clements MA, ACIB, FCIE

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

CONTENTS

	Page
Independent examiners’ report	1
Statement offinancial activities	2
Balance sheet	3
Notes to the financial statements	4 to 12
Trustees’report	13to26

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES ON THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Chorley St. George and All Saints (charity number 1130528) for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 2 to 12.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 (2) of the Act and that an independent examination is needed.

I report in respect of my examination of the Trustees’ accounts carried out under s.145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145 (5) (b) of the 2011 Act. I am a ‘Fellow of the Association of Charity Independent Examiners’.

Independent examiners’ statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed the examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in any material respect:

• (1) accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity in accordance with s. 130 of the Charities Act;

• (2) the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or

• (3) the accounts did 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.

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.

tee A Clem en LS Ac'el.

Rev’d. Alan A. Clements MA, ACIB, FCIE 15 Carleton Road GreatChorley Knowley PR6 8TQ

Dated: SULK Havre ( 2026ve

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

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||||||||||| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |Un-| |restricted|Restricted|Total|Total| |Note|funds|Funds|2024|2023| |£|£|£|£| |Income|and|endowments|from:| |Donations and legacies|2(a)|104,901|543|105,444|135,759| |Church|activities|2(b)|21,838|-|21,838|16,318| |Other trading|activities|2(c)|36,725|-|36,725|36,660| |Investments|2(d)|2,140|-|2,140|804| |Other|2(e)|-|.|-|13,150| |Total|income|and|endowments|165,604|543|166,147|202,691| |Expenditure|on:| |Raising|funds|3(a)|189|-|189|139| |Church|activities|3(b)|139,876|16,825|156,701|189,492| |Other|3(c)|3,217|-|3,217|Ee| |Total|expenditure|143,282|16,825|160,107|193,164| |Net|gains/|(losses)|on|investments|7(b)|12,078|-|12,078|26,569| |Net|income/|(expenditure)|34,400|(16,282)|18,118|36,096| |Transfers|between|funds|8|-|-|-|-| |34,400|(16,282)|18,118|36,096| |Other|recognised|gains/|(losses):| |Gains|(losses)|on|revaluation of fixed|assets|-|-|-|-| |Net|movement|in funds|34,400|(16,282)|18,118|36,096| |Reconciliation|of funds:| |Total|funds brought|forward|337,416|45,677|_|383,093|346,997| |Total funds|carried forward|371 816|29,395|401,211|383,093|

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All amounts are derived from continuing activities. There were no incoming resources attributable to geographical markets outside the United Kingdom (2023 none). All gains and losses recognised during the year are included in the Statement of Financial Activities.

The notes on pages 4 to 12 form part of these financial statements.

An analysis of the comparative figures for 2023 is set out in note 4 of the accounts.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

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2024 2023
Note £ C3 £ £
Fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets 7(a) 28,297 25,664
Investment assets 7(b) 311,642 248,124
. 339,939 273,788
Current assets
Debtors 9 20,167 23,454
Cash at bank and in hand 47,017 92,258
67,184 115,712
Liabilities
Creditors: Amounts falling due
within one year 10 5,912 6,407
Net current assets 61,272 109,305
Total net assets 401,211 383,093
Funds 8
Unrestricted funds
General fund 282,061 257,106
Designated funds 89,755 80,310
Total unrestricted funds 371,816 337,416
Restricted income funds 29,395 45,677
Total charity funds 401,211 383,093
The notes on pages 4 to 12 form part of these financial statements.
Approved by the the Parochial Church Council of the the Ecclesiastical Parish
of Chorley Chorley Saint George George and All Saints and signed on its behalf: -
Rev. M. Print M. Print Print Mrs. L. Smith L. Smith Smith LY
HG.Psk
Mr. J. Bradley J. Bradley Bradley Mrs. L. Jolly L. Jolly Jolly bk }ah
Dated: _
es We 2 2 Mrs. S. Starkey S. Starkey Starkey @ 3. Gorn
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Approved by the the Parochial Church Council of the the Ecclesiastical Parish
of Chorley Chorley Saint George George and All Saints and signed on its behalf: -
Rev. M. Print M. Print Print Mrs. L. Smith L. Smith Smith
HG.Psk
Mr. J. Bradley J. Bradley Bradley Mrs. L. Jolly L. Jolly Jolly
Dated: _
es We 2 2 Mrs. S. Starkey S. Starkey Starkey
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Charity Registered Number: 1130528

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1. General information

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Chorley Saint George and All Saints is a corporate body established by the Church of England and is a Registered Charity (charity number 1130528) and a Public Benefit Entity. The parish church of St. George is situated on St. George’s Street, Chorley and the parish church of All Saints is situated on Moor Road, Chorley; they are part of the Diocese of Blackburn within the Church of England. The correspondence address is St. George’s Vicarage, Letchworth Place, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 2HJ.

1. Statement of compliance

These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with the provisions of FRS 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland’.

1. Accounting policies

Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006, 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 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The church meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the entity. The figures in the accounts are rounded to the nearest £.

The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the church’s ability to continue as a going concern. The preparation of the financial statements may require the trustees to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts reported for income and expenditure during the year. However, the nature of estimation means that the actual outcomes could differ from those estimates. The judgement that has had the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements relates to the estimate of the useful economic lives of the various fixed assets in the accounts for the purpose of the depreciation charge. The carrying amounts of the fixed assets are set out in the Balance Sheet and the notes to the accounts.

Funds

Unrestricted income funds comprise accumulated surpluses and deficits on general funds that are available for use at the discretion of the PCC in furtherance of the general objectives of the church and that have not been designated for other purposes by the Wardens or the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the Wardens’, or the PCC are also unrestricted. Restricted income funds are those subject to special conditions imposed by the donor and are not available for purposes other than those specified by the donor.

The accounts include all monetary 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 nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Income

All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

Donations and legacies

Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Planned giving receivable under covenant is recognised only when received.

Income tax recoverable on covenants or gift aid donations is recognised when the income is recognised. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement and the amount due.

Income from church and trading activities

Rental income from the letting of church premises is recognised when the rental is due. Funds raised by the fairs and similar events are accounted for gross.

Income from investments

Dividends and interest are accounted for when receivable.

Gains and losses on investments Realised gains or losses are recognised when investments are sold. Unrealised gains or losses are accounted for on revaluation of investments at 31 December.

Expenditure

Expenditure is included in the Statement of Financial Activities on an accruals basis, inclusive of any VAT which cannot be recovered. Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

All expenditure has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to that category. Donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. The parish share is accounted for when payable. Any amount unpaid at the year end is provided for in the accounts as an operational (though not a legal) liability and is shown as a creditor in the Balance Sheet.

Tangible fixed assets

Consecrated land and buildings and movable church furnishings

Consecrated and beneficed property is excluded from the accounts by s.96 (2) (a) & (c) of the Charities

Act 1993,

No value is placed on movable church furnishings held by the church wardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal since the PCC considers this to be inalienable property. All expenditure incurred during the year on consecrated or benefice buildings and movable church furnishings, whether maintenance or improvement, is written off as expenditure in the SOFA and separately disclosed.

Other fixtures, fittings and office equipment Equipment used within the church premises is stated at cost and is depreciated on a straight-line basis over 5 years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Church hall

The property is stated at cost at 31 December. The PCC are of the opinion that the depreciation charge and accumulated depreciation of the building are immaterial. There is a policy and practice of regular maintenance and repair, which is charged in the accounts of the entity, such that the previously assessed standard of the building is maintained. The building is expected to have a long remaining useful life exceeding fifty years, and its estimated residual value is not expected to be less than its current carrying amount. The building is reviewed for impairment at the end of the accounting period and a depreciation charge is only made if the estimated residual value of the building becomes materially less than the carrying amount of the asset.

Investments

Investments are a form of basic financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction value. The charity does not acquire equity investments, put options, derivatives or other complex financial instruments. Investments are stated at market value at 31 December which is the quoted price for accumulation shares. The Statement of Financial Activities includes the net gains and losses arising on revaluations and disposals during the year. Cash held on deposit with the CBF Church of England Funds is invested for long term purposes and is included within fixed assets.

Current assets

Trade and other debtors owing to the PCC are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. Cash at bank and in hand is held in bank accounts repayable on demand which are classified as short term in nature.

Current liabilities

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

Financial instruments

The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

		Un-
		restricted	Restricted	Total	Total
		funds	funds	2024	2023
		£	£	2	£
2.	Income and endowments from:
	(a)Donationsandlegacies
	Planned giving	62,560	-	62,560	64,302
	Income tax recoverable	15,055	35	15,090	13,662
	Other giving	3,415	-	3,415	3,010
	Collections (otherthanplanned
	giving through envelopes)	13,171	-	13,171	11,987
	Grants	416	-	416	6,642
	Sundry donations	7,478	508	7,986	11,174
	Legacies	2,806	-	2,806	24,982
		104,901	543	105,444	— 135,759
	(b) Church activities
	Fees	16,242	-	16,242	10,418
	Hall rents from church organisations	5,596	-	5,596	5,900
		21,838	-	21,838	16,318
	(c) Othertradingactivities
	Aerial rental	4,000	-	4,000	4,000
	Hall rents	24,820	-	24,820	24,688
	Christmas Fair	4,147	-	4,147	3,434
	Miscellaneous sales	3,758	-	3,758	4,538
		36,725	-	36,725	36,660
	(d) Investments
	Interest onUK investments	2,140	-	2,140	804
		2,140	-	2,140	804
	(e) Other
	Funds transferred by All SaintsPCC	-	-	-	13,150
		-	-	-	13,150
	Totalincomeandendowments	165,604	543	166,147	202,691

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

			Un-
			restricted	Restricted	Total	Total
			funds £	funds £	2024 és	2023 £
3.	Expenditure on:
	(a)Raisingfunds
	Stewardship envelopes		139	-	139	139
	Christmas Fair		50	.	50	-
			189	-	189	139
	(b) Church activities
	Missionaryand charitable giving:
	Church overseas	5	-	-	-	-
	Church activities		-	-	-	-
	Secular charities		-	-	-	-
	Parish share		67,022	-	67,022	74,583
	Working expenses ofincumbent		1,756	-	1,756	2,251
	Parsonage house		3,859	-	3,859	3,508
	Churchrunning expenses		23,804	-	23,804	23,186
	Church maintenance		6,404	4,039	10,443	7,851
	Upkeep ofservices		6,231	-	6,231	5,557
	Training& education		3,680	511	4,191	3,530
	Hall running costs& management		22,719	-	22,719	37,745
	Major repairs:
	Reredos project		-	11,727	11,727	26,471
	Verger& cleaning services		3,582	-	3,582	4,263
	Depreciation		819	548	1,367	567
			139,876	16,825	156,701	189,492
	(c) Other
	Generalprinting& stationery		1,086	-	1,086	771
	Sundry expenses		2,131	-	2.131	2,762
			3,217	-	3,217	3,533
	Totalexpenditure		143,282	16,825	160,107	193,164

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

4. Statement of Financial Activities analysis of comparative figures

	Un-
	restricted	Restricted	Total
	funds	Funds	2023
	£	£	£
.
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies	106,433	29,326	135,759
Church activities	16,318	-	16,318
Othertrading activities	34,783	1,877	36,660
Investments	804	-	804
Other	5,869	7,281	13,150
Total incomeandendowments	164,207	38,484	202,691
Expenditure on:
Raising funds	139	-	139
Church activities	161,127	28,365	189,492
Other	3,533	-	3,533
Total expenditure	164,799	28,365	193,164
Net gains/(losses) oninvestments	26,569	-	26,569
Net income/(expenditure)	25,977	10,119	36,096
Transfers between funds	-	-	-
	25,977	10,119	36,096
Other recognised gains/ (losses):
Gains (losses) on revaluationoffixed assets	-	-	-
Net movement in funds	25,977	10,119	36,096
Reconciliation offunds:
Total funds brought forward	311,439	35,558	346,997
Totalfundscarriedforward	337,416	45,677	383,093

5. Volunteers

The church has benefited from the services of unpaid general volunteers each year, the value of which is not recognised in the accounts. Further information regarding the contribution made by volunteers to the church’s activities, is set out in the Trustees’ Report.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

6. Trustees remuneration and expenses

During the year, the trustee Mr. G. Blackledge received payments in respect of his position as church organist and choirmaster amounting to £2,880. Apart from this no other members of the PCC or any related party received any remuneration, benefits or expenses from the church during the year. Donations were made by members of the PCC to the church during the year in total of £22,072. Apart from this there were no other related party transactions during the year that require disclosure.

			Freehold	Equipment	Equipment	Total
			land &
			buildings
			£	£		£
7.	Fixed assets for useby thePCC
	(a)	Tangible fixed assets
		Cost
		At 01.01.24	22,827	8,378		31,205
		Added inyear	-	4,000		4,000
		Disposals in year	-		-	-
		At 31.12.24	22,827	12,378		35,205
		Depreciation
		At 01.01.24	-	5,541		5,541
		Charge foryear	-	1,367		1,367
		Disposals in year	-		-	-
		At 31.12.24	-	6,908		6,908
		Net book values
		At 31.12.24	22,827	5,470		28,297
		At 31.12.23	22,827	2,837		25,664
		Freehold land and buildings comprises the Church Hall. All tangible fixed assets are			used	for or to
		support charitable purposes.
(b)	Investment fixed assets			2024		2023
				£		3
		CBFChurch ofEngland deposit fund—cost		62,968		11,528
		CBF Church ofEngland investment fund— valuation		248.674		236,596
				311,642		48,124
		CBF Church ofEngland depositfund
		Cost at 01.01.24		11,528		11,170
		Additions		51,440		358
		Disposals		-		-
		Costat31.12.24		62,968		11,528

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

(b)	Investmentfixed assets (continued)	2024	2023
		£	£
	CBFChurch ofEngland investmentfund
	Market value at 01.01.24	236,596	210,027
	Additions	<	-
	Disposals	-	-
	Gains (losses) on disposal	-	-
	Gains (losses) on revaluation	12,078	26,569
	Marketvalueat31.12.24	248.674	236,596

	All ofthe above areU.K.investments held	All ofthe above areU.K.investments held	to provide an	investment return for the	investment return for the	investment return for the	charity and are not
	programme related investments	made primarily as part ofthe church’s charitable activities. The CBF
	Church ofEngland investment fundconsists		ofaccumulation shares		with amarket value at the year-end
	of£248,674 (2023 £236,596).
		Unrestricted		Restricted		Total	Total
			funds	Funds		2024	2023
	,		£	£		£	£
8.	Analysis ofnet assets byfund
	Fixed assets forchurch use		26,105	2,192		28,297	25,664
	Investment fixed assets	311,642			-	311,642	248,124
	Current assets		39,381	27,803		67,184	115,712
	Current liabilities		(5,312)	(600)		(5,912)	(6,407)
	Fund balance	371,816		29,395		401,211	383,093
	Unrestricted funds
		General	All	Fabric		_Restora-	Total
		fund	Saints’	fund		tionfund
			fund
			=			£	£
	At 01.01.24	257,106	10,310	40,000		30,000	337,416
	Income	136,234	28,852	518		-	165,604
	Expenditure	(123,875)	_(19,407)	-		-	(143,282)
		12,359	9,445	518		-	22,322
	Transfers	2,856	-	(1,325)		(1,531)	-
	Profit on sale ofinvestments	-	-	-		-	-
	Surplus (deficit)on revaluation	9,740	-	807		1,531	12,078
	ofinvestments
		9,740	-	807		1,531	12,078
	At31.12.24	282,061	19,755	40,000		30,000	371,816

The unrestricted funds represent the general church fund and designated funds. The designated funds include the balance on the All Saints general fund which has been earmarked for the future use of All Saints church, and the St. George church fabric fund, which has been designated by the Wardens for use for major building projects. The previous balance on the Tom Hilton Legacy Fund was undesignated in 2018 and now forms part of the general fund for the running of the church, apart from £30,000 re-designated as the Restoration fund. The PCC consider that the resources of each fund are held in the appropriate form to meet the fund’s requirements.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Restricted funds

Restricted funds
		Reredos	John	Other St.	Other All	Total
		fund	Lowe	George’s	Saints’
			Legacy	funds	funds
			funds
.
		£	£	£	£	£
At 01.01.24		5,279	25,000	MAB	10,081	45,677
Income		128	-	415	-	543
Expenditure		(5,407)	(3,345)	(4,313)	(3,760)	(16,825)
		(5,279)	(3,345)	(3,898)	(3,760)	(16,282)
Transfers		-	“	«	a	-
At31.12.24		-	21,655	1,419	6,321	29,395

The restricted funds include the Reredos fund which was set up to raise funds for the restoration of the ornamental screen situated behind the church’s main altar, as well as the funds created by the John Lowe legacies to support church maintenance and for church youth development. The other St. George’s funds include the Restoration fund, set up to raise funds by donations and grants to contribute to the ongoing cost of the major renovation work required to the church, with the latest stage leading up to the church’s bi-centenary in 2025 and the Jenny Mercer Legacy fund set up to develop activities for children and young persons. The All Saints funds comprise the Fabric fund for ongoing maintenance, decoration and development work to the church, funded from various trading activities, and the Sound System fund which was funded by donations and other fundraising and was fully used during the year for the purchase of a new sound system for the church. The PCC consider that the resources of each fund are held in the appropriate form to meet the fund’s requirements.

		2024	2023
9.	Debtors	£	£
	Incometax recoverable	15,010	13,604
	Hall rents	1,652	2,765
	Prepayments andaccrued income	3,505	7,085
		20,167	23,454
		2024	2023
10.	Creditors	£	£
	Sundry creditors	928	1,183
	Accruals	4,984	5,224
		5,912	6,407

11. Financial commitments

At the year end, the remaining balance that the church had contracted for expenditure relating to the restoration of the Reredos was an estimated amount of £7,380 which is not provided in the accounts as at 31 December 2023 (2023 £9,000).

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

The Parish of Chorley St George and All Saints’ was created on 1 August 2023, following the approval of a Pastoral Scheme resulting in the former parishes of Chorley St. George and Chorley All Saints' being merged into a single parish with the two churches remaining as individual 'Parish Churches’.

The Parish Church of St. George is situated in the town centre of Chorley and the Parish Church of All Saints’ is situated in the south boundary area of Chorley. The parish is part of the Diocese of Blackburn within the Church of England and is registered as a charity in England and Wales, number 1130528. Its governing documents are the Parochial Church Council’s (Powers) Measures 1956 (as amended), and the Church Representation Rules contained in schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 (as amended). The principal office and correspondence address for the parish is the address of the Vicarage which is St. George’s Vicarage, Letchworth Place, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 2HJ.

St George’s Church is a fine example of a Waterloo Church, built by the Church Commissioner's money and opened for worship in 1825 and holding the heritage status as Grade 2* listed. All Saints’ Church opened in 1959; the foundation stone was laid in 1957 (whose boundaries were originally part of the Parish of St George) and categorised as a sister church to St George's. The church building is not listed and is a more modern style church brick building.

It has an active, enthusiastic and hardworking Parochial Church Council (PCC) which is established as a Charity and constituted as an incorporated association under the Act of Parliament dated 2 January 1957. The appointment of our current incumbent, the Reverend Michael Print, took place in 2019 (at St George’s Church). In September 2022, the Reverend Michael Print was licensed as Priest-in-Charge of All Saints’ Church. Following the Pastoral Scheme approval, the Reverend Michael Print was reconfirmed as the incumbent (Vicar) of the Parish Church of St. George and also confirmed as the incumbent (Vicar) of the Parish Church of All Saint’s.

The PCC wishes to express their sincerest thanks to all those who have been supportive of our churches during the year and have continued to actively promote the mission of our parish churches pastorally, evangelically, socially, and ecumenically. As well as the Parish Church of St George, the PCC has overall responsibility for St. George's Church Hall, Red Bank Mission Hall, along with certain responsibilities for St George’s Vicarage and St. George's Voluntary Aided Primary School. Also, as well as the Parish Church of All Saints’, the PCC has certain responsibilities for All Saints’ Voluntary Aided Primary School and Nursery Unit. It should be noted that the responsibilities for All Saints’ Vicarage transferred to Blackburn Diocese effective 1 August 2023 as part of the Pastoral Scheme.

Prior to the merger, in August 2023, All Saints’ Church was an “excepted” charity and therefore not required to be registered with the Charity Commission. The Charity Commission registration for St George’s Church was amended to reflect the new parish. Post-merger, an action plan was enacted to fully align the operating practices and implement a single operating framework and financial system and banking arrangements. Opportunities were taken to value stream map key processes to ensure effective, efficient and robust good practice operating arrangements were deployed. The post-merger actions were fully completed in 2024 with the exception of the opening of a new HMRC Charities account to allow Gift Aid to reclaim, which is currently underway.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Membership Members of the PCC are either elected by the Annual Parish Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation rules or are co-opted.

The membership of the PCC consists of the Vicar and other members of the clergy, Churchwardens, twelve elected persons, Deanery and Diocesan Synod representatives and those who are co-opted. All who are elected or co-opted are on the electoral roll of the church and all who attend our services and are members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the electoral roll and stand for election to the PCC or Deanery Synod.

The PCC is 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. New members receive initial training into the workings of the PCC and are mentored as they begin their term of office.

PCC members who have served from 1 January 2024 until the date this report was approved are: -

Ex-officio members:

Incumbent: Reverend Michael Print B.A. (Hons), B.Th. (Oxon) Assistant Curate: — Reverend Jordan Bentliff Retired Clergy PTO: Reverend Peter Smith

Wardens: Mr. John Bradley Mr. Stephen Pollard (to May 2024) (& Diocesan Synod) Mrs. Lorraine Smith (from May 2024) (& Deanery Synod) Mrs. Lilian Jolly Mrs. Shirley Starkey

Diocesan Synod Representative

Mr. Stephen Pollard

Deanery Synod Representative (the agreed number remains at 3):

Mr. Brian Allman Mrs. Carole Cox Mrs. Lorraine Smith

Elected Members (the agreed number to serve on the PCC remains at 12):

Mrs. Rachael Anders-Kay Mr. Gordon Blackledge Mr. Alan Gibson

Dr. Victoria Gibson

Mrs. Rachel Gilkes (May 2024 to September 2024) Mr. David Heyworth Mr. Bernard Hilton Mrs. Marjorie Holland (from November 2024) Mrs. Christine Ireland

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Mrs. Jennifer Laidlaw (to May 2024)

Ms. Carol Pearson

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Mrs. Netta Walker Mrs. Elizabeth Wilding Mrs Susan Wilk (to March 2025)

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Officer Roles:
Secretary Mrs. Susan Wilk (to March 2025)
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Treasurer Mr. Stephen Pollard

Electoral Roll Mrs. Sara Shingler

It is considered that all PCC members and any others who could be understood to be ‘managers’ in the activities and affairs of the church — as defined in Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 — have completed declarations confirming they are ‘fit and proper’ persons under the Finance Act 2010.

All PCC members elected for the first time or who have been re-elected to the PCC after a period of absence of some-time are encouraged to meet with the Officers, Chairs of Sub-committees, Churchwardens and Incumbent as required to ensure they have an understanding on the present position in the Parish. Copies of the previous meeting minutes and the last annual report and accounts are available from the PCC Secretary if not already held.

The PCC recognises that in relation to ‘Risk Assessment’, risk is defined as ‘threat of any action or event which will adversely affect an organisation’s ability to achieve its objectives and executes its strategies’. It also accepts that the term ‘risk’ can include any circumstances that may, or do, have an adverse effect, and is wider than financial matters. ‘Risks’ relate not only to the negative consequences of a threat, but also to the impact of not taking advantage of opportunities.

The contents and obligations of the Equality Act 2010 and the 2018 General Data Protection Regulation are known and complied with to the best of the PCC’s ability.

The PCC recognises it requires a practical Health & Safety Policy covering activities for both Parish Churches, their surrounding grounds but also for St George’s Church Hall and Red Bank Mission Hall. This is reviewed on a regular basis. An Accident Book is maintained at each building location. The PCC is aware of its responsibilities in respect of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in its requirements to carry out a fire risk assessment to identify any possible dangers and risks, to take action to minimise the risks and to create a plan to deal with any emergencies, and to write up and keep a record of its findings and to review its assessment annually. The PCC has appointed a Parish Health & Safety Officer to put these things into operation, Mr. John Bradley.

Safeguarding remains at the heart of our Parish, and we are on a continuous journey to protect children, young people and adults — safeguarding is everyone’s business. Our Parish Safeguarding Officer is Dr. Victoria Gibson.

The Safeguarding Sub-Committee of the PCC has a standing item on every PCC agenda and a written safeguarding report is shared. The Parish Safeguarding Policy has been updated and posters from the Diocese have been placed in both Church buildings and Hall to advertise who the Parish Safeguarding Officer is, how they can be contacted, with a photo and key contact details as well as a copy of the Parish Safeguarding Handbook and Safer Church poster. Our Church websites and social media accounts all have Safeguarding contact details and link to policy on their landing pages.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

All the Parish Safeguarding Policies including our safeguarding allegations process are up to date and have been signed off by the PCC; these are all reviewed and refreshed annually. A monthly article in The Messenger, “Spotlight on Safeguarding”, is written on one aspect of Safeguarding — subjects have included Mental Health and Domestic Abuse.

Safeguarding Sunday was marked on 17 November 2024, and a Parish Safeguarding video was shared on our Parish YouTube Channel and sent to the Diocese to be shared. DBS checks, risk assessments and training records are kept up to date and reviewed. Safeguarding leaflets have been produced for the back of Church with key contact information for statutory and charitable services. Parish Dashboards and Hub are regularly updated for the Diocese.

Our Parish Safeguarding Officer also holds the position of Deputy Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel, which is a Bishop’s appointment and support the Diocese in safeguarding.

Committees/Sub-Committees

The PCC operates through a number of committees which meet between full PCC meetings, both regularly and frequently: these are supported by “task” oriented activities led by individuals or small groups within the purview of the committee structure. The Church of England, through the synodical structure and Church Representation Rules, sets out the mandated governance requirements at parochial, diocesan and national Church levels.

During the year 2024, the PCC met on 6 occasions; this was down from 7 occasions in both 2023 and 2022. However, it should be recognised that in the previous 2 years, extra meetings were needed to discuss the Pastoral Scheme arrangements. The average attendance at PCC Meetings was 85%, the same as in 2023. The PCC also met on one additional occasion, specifically to agree the annual accounts. It should also be recognised that numerous PCC Sub-committee Meetings were also held during the year 2024 with particularly good attendance levels noted; these subcommittee meetings complimented and optimised the workings of the PCC, noting the Finance & General Purposes Sub-Committee were tasked with completing the final actions associated with the Pastoral Scheme merger.

Standing Committee

This is the only committee required by law and comprises the Vicar, Churchwardens, Secretary and Treasurer; additionally, Chairs of Sub-committees are invited. It has the power to transact the business of the PCC meetings, subject to any directions given by the PCC. Chaired by the Vicar, The Revd Michael Print. In 2024 the Standing Committee was not required to meet.

Finance and General Purposes Committee

Responsible for financial matters, the day to day running of the Church and the management of its resources. Chaired by Mr. Alan Gibson.

Fabric and Buildings Committee

Responsible for the care, maintenance and repair of Church plant and property, both in the medium and long term. Chaired by Mr. Bernard Hilton.

Mission and Discipleship Committee

Responsible for the spiritual aspects of Church life, both inside, and outside of the Church building. Chaired by Mrs. Elizabeth Wilding.

Safeguarding Committee

To provide leadership, advice and support to the Vicar and PCC on all aspects of safeguarding. To encourage everyone to promote a safer church, to ensure there is a robust system in place to raise safeguarding concerns and undertake safeguarding training. Chaired by Dr. Victoria Gibson.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Liturgy Committee To review our service booklets and the liturgy we use during our services. Chaired by the Vicar. This subcommittee only meets on an as required basis. It was not required to meet in 2024.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Objectives and Activities for the public benefit

Throughout the year, the PCC remained mindful of the Commission’s guidance on public benefit, in particular, the specific guidance to charities for the advancement of religion. St. George’s continued to try to enable ordinary people, to live out their faith as part of the parish community through:

• e the provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish and for those associated with St. George’s who live outside the parish:

• e worship and prayer, learning about the Gospel, and developing their knowledge and trust in Jesus’ missionary and outreach work.

At all times and within all the-changes which took place during the year, the members of the PCC, as Trustees, have been able, to confirm that they have complied with their duties in delivering public benefit in accordance with their aims, and they have had due regard to the guidance on public benefit published by the Charity Commission, in the exercise of their duties.

Vicar’s Review of The Year.

2024 has been a year of new beginnings and of planning to remember old beginnings. 2024 was the year All Saints’ launched its new services and community events, building on the links established with the school and community in previous years and setting a firm foundation from which to move forward in transforming their community in line with Vision 2026 (for more see the Curate’s report below). In many ways for St George’s 2024 was a year of continuing already established groups and events, including our amateur dramatics group (DAMs), Men’s Fellowship, Mothers Union, Sunday Club and Little Steps (baby and toddler group).

Together we sought to reach out to our local community, including with our Mission Weekend, and enjoyed social times together as a Parish, notably our Summer Parish Barbecue at the vicarage and our ‘Pentecost Picnic’ after church to conclude our ‘Mission Weekend’. 2024 has also been a year in which we have spent significant time planning to remember the two-hundredth birthday of St George’s Church building (in 2025). As clergy, our thanks go to everyone who is involved in our parish and has helped to keep established groups going and to organise new endeavours. As we look back over the past two-hundred years, we are reminded that clergy come and go, but it is the parishioners, committed to their local churches, who provide greater continuity and stability.

Curate’s Review of The Year

At All Saints’ church this past year we have seen some significant growth and people going deeper in with their relationship with Christ. This has largely taken place in three or four key ministries: the new Closer service, the parish youth group, the 11am Sunday Eucharist and through more irregular work such as holiday clubs and even funerals. Our church has gone from around 20 regular attendees on a Sunday, up to at least 50, with many others on the periphery of our Church.

The Closer service has fluctuated a lot in terms of numbers but has largely been successful in reaching the target audience of families with primary school aged children. We found that in the first half of the year we increased rapidly, due to the number of invitational events that were held and are hoping to do the same this year too. It is through this service that we have seen several of the key families who have since got involved with our church.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Curate’s Review of The Year (continued)

With regard to the parish youth group, it should be noted that the successes there have been helped by members of both churches in the parish. Whilst it is still in the early stages, it has been great to see that a number of those from the youth group in the All Saints’ end of the parish have begun to regularly attend church on a Sunday.

The 1lam Eucharist has got off to a good start, with numbers up slightly on the past few years. It is still noticeable, however, that a lot of the main jobs in the Sunday morning Eucharist have fallen on the same people and will not currently be sustainable for the long term unless we can enable new people to explore these roles. There has, however, also been a new Sunday school starting on Sunday mornings, which has helped with making this service more accessible to younger people. Several historic members of the All Saints’ congregation have returned with the 11am starting, and several have also found they are no longer able to attend. The growth has mostly been through families attending together, one of whom is hoping to start training for ALM (authorised lay ministry).

The less regular ministries have also been largely successful in church. Whilst the holiday club was run as a parish with some significant suecess due to the hard work of all involved, we have also seen success in reaching some people through the occasional offices of baptisms and funerals. There are now several people who have started to attend church through the offices, and this has been encouraging to see.

Schools’ work has also largely been successful over this past year. We have had our first school Eucharist in All Saints’ Primary School, strengthened ties with school through our fundraising events such as the Christmas fair (the first in several years), and held confirmation classes in school as we had our first confirmation service at All Saints’ church in over a decade. There has also been a large increase in state school visits as the curate has now visited Gillibrand primary school at least four times per term over the last year. These relationships have helped to increase engagement with our community.

Whilst there are many significant issues facing All Saints’ at the moment which will need to be reviewed as we continue to look at our building maintenance, there is also plenty of hope and opportunity in the months ahead. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that has been involved in ministry across the parish and has helped to bring Christ to our community, especially in light of all that lies ahead.

There have been numerous other events, such as trips away with schools and youth groups, seasonal services, fundraising successes, prayer ministries, discipleship series, alpha groups, ministries that were tried for a short time such as the tots and toddlers group. It is right to acknowledge that it has been a busy year for our parish and yet also to remember that it is God’s mission we take part in, not our own. So, as we turn towards 2025, we should put this next year into his hands, remembering to echo the healthy pattern of ministry that he has laid out for us in this year ahead. It will all happen in his time.

Mission and Discipleship

Bible studies/reflections have been held throughout 2024, starting with Bishop Phillip’s Lent course, which was accessed via You Tube, at St George’s Vicarage and also for private study on the new Diocesan App, Fruitful. Rev. Jordan also ran a successful Youth Alpha course in Lent which resulted in some attendees being confirmed in the summer. Copies of the Lent Devotional were distributed in both churches.

Our summer studies involved a Prayer Course run by our ALM Carol Pearson where we followed the 24/7 Pete Greig videos and learnt about various ways to pray. This has led to a Prayer group being established on the third Wednesday of each month, thanks to Carol. We spent the next few weeks continuing our study of the Exodus sermon series. Devotionals were handed out again in Advent and this was also available on the Fruitful App. Another sermon series was held for Advent. Attendance at some of these has been disappointing, despite alternating the evenings and venue which they are held, we look for ways to facilitate others taking part in 2025. Christianity Explored was held again for adults wishing to be Confirmed.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Mission and Discipleship (continued)

For the Deanery Mission event in May we held a Pentecost Picnic after the 9:30 service. Crafts and Games were enjoyed and the event culminated in ex Gladiator, Hunter, giving his testimony on how he became a Christian. It was lovely to see parishioners from All Saints and families from Little Steps at this event.

In August, our first Holiday Club for many years was held at All Saints’ Church. This was well attended by children from both churches and some new faces from All Saints’ school who have since become regular attendees at Closer. Adult helpers from both churches and both schools had lots of fun as well as the children! Thanks go to St Georges DAMS for their input. It was lovely to see several new faces at the Vicarage BBQ in August and we hope to encourage more next time.

October saw Pusey House’s Northern Lights Conference, Rekindling the Fire, coming to St. George’s. This proved a popular event with approximately 90 attending from all over the diocese and beyond. 10 of Those book shop helda stall with a huge variety of literature to help us in our devotions.

Steps to engage with the youth of our parish have met with varying degrees of success. Whilst the Closer service, the Youth Club and Little Steps seem to be going from strength to strength this has not been the case for the Vigil service and Little Saints. The decision was made to suspend these for the time being looking at ways we could change things in the hope of restarting in some format in the future.

A review has also been held on the 3 parade services held during the year. On consultation with Leaders, it has been decided to have 6 per year and apart from Remembrance Sunday these will be more child friendly with children doing the readings, choosing the hymns etc. Rev Mike will still carry out the sermon slot targeting at the children’s level and interest. The organisations will have the opportunity in the notice slot to come out and tell the congregation of their activities.

The Mission and Discipleship Team would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of both congregations for their support of the various appeals held during 2024. The Lent Lunch was very well attended anda grand total of £456 was donated to the Brothers of Charity based locally at Lisieux Hall At Harvest we collected for the Living Waters foodbank as well as supporting the Bishops Appeal. Thanks go to all who have supported the Candle Wax appeal.

This year’s response to International Aid’s Shoebox Appeal was overwhelming with 100 boxes being taken to their warehouse at Tarleton along with £73 towards transport costs. The appeal for warm items and toiletries for Help the Homeless was once more well supported with the many donated items being gratefully received by the charity. The Toy appeal, despite being down on last year, saw several boxes of gifts taken to Homestart. We need to look at the publicity surrounding this for next year and maybe moving it to the final parade service of the year.

The huge undertaking of organising and delivering Easter and Christmas cards across the parish was once more achieved; more volunteers are needed to ease the load. Cards were also given to shoppers during our Carol singing at Asda. Carol singing also took place outside the Heron store on Moor Road.

In conclusion, there is a lot to be positive about from 2024, but we recognise there is still a big challenge ahead for all of our church congregations to find ways of bringing God’s Word to our community and encourage all to pray for the Year of Growth and Renewal in 2025.

Churchwardens’ Report - St. George’s Parish Church

Churchwardens have a legal responsibility to provide a report at the Annual Parochial Meeting: the minimum requirement being to confirm any additions or subtractions to the Terrier and the recording of the goods and chattels in the church building. We can confirm that in the year covered by this report, there have been no additions or deletions and as far as the Wardens are aware, the contents of these are accurate.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Churchwardens’ Report (continued)

We hosted several larger services, including Education Sunday, and the Confirmation Service. The support and flexibility provided by our Sides-persons Teams is exceptional and they are commended for their valued contribution as “welcomers” and assisting with other various duties during and after services.

At the 2024 ACPM Stephen Pollard stood down as Churchwarden to undertake the Treasurer’s role full time and Lorraine Smith was elected as the new warden alongside the existing Warden: John Bradley. Many thanks go out to Stephen for his support and insight.

We would also like to register our sincere thanks to our Verger, Graham Schofield, for all his hard work and dedicated service contributing to the smooth running of all our services. Sadly, Graham had to retire as Verger during the year. His ministry will be greatly missed, as will his wife Pam who ably assisted him on many occasions. Additionally, thanks and appreciation go to the high-quality musical provision, led by our Organist and Choir Director, Gordon Blackledge.

We know our congregation very much appreciates worshiping in a very clean church, so our thanks also go to our cleaner, Gillian Ellison,-for all her continued efforts throughout the year. The church was kept skilfully decorated with regular flower arrangements provided by members of our Flower Guild, and we offer our thanks for this important contribution. We would also like to show our appreciation to Alan Farrington, our Sexton, for overseeing interments and maintaining up to date accurate records.

The Wardens would like to thank the members of the Maintenance Team for ensuring that essential maintenance duties were undertaken. In addition, a significant amount of restoration and redecoration projects were completed. This helped the Church to ensure that all our buildings remained in good condition, and the respective grounds were kept looking neat and tidy.

We would also like to offer our significant thanks to our Vicar, Fr Mike and our Curate Fr Jordan for all the hard work that they and their families have done. It is also important to remember the support we received from retired clergy, in particular Fr Peter Smith, along with the continual support we receive from the diocese.

We are fortunate to have an outstanding primary school. Our thanks go to all the staff for their dedication in providing all pupils with a fantastic education and life skill opportunities in a Christian context, along with regular class visits to church, as well as the whole school attending on some occasions.

As one of the foundation churches served by St. Michael’s High School, we value the important linkage between the school and our church. We recognise the significant contribution St. Michael’s makes to ensuring our young people receive an excellent education in a Christian environment and suitably equipping every one of them for life the 21st Century.

We were very pleased to host full school Christmas productions for both St George’s and St Michael's. Given the importance of supporting our children and young people, it is important to note the numerous successful church uniformed organisations we have. All of them provide great opportunities for our children and young people for which we thank the dedicated leaders.

Finances have continued to remain extremely challenging. We are fortunate for the level of proactive support we have received from our Treasurer, who continually provides sound financial advice and effectively oversees our financial position. Additionally, thanks go to our various volunteers for the successful fundraising activities during the year, without which we would be in an even worse financial position.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Churchwardens’ Report (continued)

Aligned to the Blackburn Diocese Vision 2026 ‘Healthy Churches Transforming Communities’ and promoting church growth we continue to grow as one parish since the combination of All Saints and St George’s in 2023. Both churches have worked together to support each other and to strengthen our bonds, with combined events taking place throughout the year.

In late 2023 a new Saturday night service, The Vigil service was started, although with small numbers at the beginning it steadily grew for a while. Sadly, this service did not achieve its potential and was suspended in August 2024. : Our Church Hall has benefitted from good levels of bookings during the year. Good use has been made of the hall by our church groups and organisations, along with important regular external bookings and those made on a one-off basis. We would like to thank our Hall Manager, Sian Phillipson, for the Hall Management Services provided. ,

There are many people who have not been named in this report but who contribute to the ongoing success of our Church and parish life; to those we offer our sincere thanks. By just reading through this report, it is easy to gain a sense of the many groups and organisations that contribute to our successful and vibrant parish life.

Churchwardens’ Report — All Saints’ Parish Church

The Wardens are delighted with the ongoing transformation taking place at All Saint’s Church. So much has happened in the year. We would like to express our thanks to Fr Mike, our Vicar, for his overall continuing strategic leadership. We would also like to thank him for his decision for Fr Jordan, our Assistant Curate, to be given the day to day responsibility for leading the revival and growth in our church and increase our mission and outreach in the local area. Additionally, we would like to thank Fr Peter Smith for his ministry and support to Fr Jordan and Fr Mike.

We recognise that our church is at the start of a long challenging journey, but we are confident that we will be successful. There is so much to celebrate at All Saints’, and so many firsts to promote.

The introduction of the Closer Service on a Sunday afternoon, initially aimed at families and youth, has proved very successful. The time change of moving our Sunday Eucharist Service from 8:00am to 11:00am has created further opportunities for growth. This service was also changed from a Said Eucharist to a Sung Eucharist which has been popular. We very much appreciate that Gordon Blackledge, the Organist and Musical Director at St George’s Church is able to be our Organist. We also very much appreciate the organ playing by Jennifer Laidlaw as part of our Mid-week Eucharist Service.

It was so pleasing to see a Confirmation Service taking place at our church, the first in over ten years. Social activities and events are increasing, with our very successful Christmas Fair, which was the first for six years. A Baby and Toddler Group was trialed over a number of months; this was not as successful as hoped so it has been discontinued for the time being. Another addition to our 11:00am Sunday Eucharist Service was the start of a Sunday School for children who meet in the Lady Chapel during part of the service.

We also have a number of members of our church family who have made a decision, based on God’s calling, to undertake Lay Ministry Training, to help further spread the good news of Jesus in our local community. It was wonderful that some of our youth members were able to attend the Diocesan Youth Camp at Borwick Hall. A very successful parish youth holiday club was held in our church building during the summer holidays, which will hopefully continue to be repeated.

The relationship with our primary school continues to flourish and it is good that the school is so close to church, making church attendance easier, as well as attending church during term time, including special festivals and school productions. We continue to welcome Gillibrand Primary School to the church and recognise the relationship being developed with them.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Churchwardens’ Report (continued)

Our thanks go to the support received from our Treasurer, Stephen Pollard, on a wide range of financial and church governance related activities. We also thank the Buildings and Maintenance Team led by Bernard Hilton for their work both inside the church building and also for external groundworks. This has made a tremendous improvement. Our sincere thanks go to Christine Ireland for all the work performed as our Verger and Church Cleaner (and other duties). | Our church is always very well decorated with flower arrangements, thanks go to our Flower Guild members.

This year saw an increase in both Baptism Services and Funerals Services being held at All Saints’ Church along with Interments. We would like to thank Alan Farrington for agreeing to undertake Sexton duties at All Saints’ in addition to his duties he performs at St George’s Church.

We were pleased that senior diocesan clergy were able to attend some of our services. These included the Bishop of Blackburn, the Bishop of Lancaster and the Archdeacon of Lancaster. It is important to remember all the support we receive from our diocese of which the extent of the support is not always clearly visible and can often be overlooked. We are fortunate for the help and support we get from within our Deanery. There are too many people to name individually to express our thanks for their help and support.

The decision for All Saints’ to merge with St. George’s was definitely a good one. The partnership and support across the parish is so pleasing to see. All Saints’ Church has once again started to feel ‘centre stage’ in our local community. We have seen a growth in numbers, an early indication of spiritual growth, and our church providing a much needed service to our local community. Whilst the various fundraising activities undertaken throughout the year are to be commended, however, we are very realistic and recognise the challenge we face with increasing our financial giving to support day-to-day operational costs. We will also need to start further fundraising including applying for grants to help with the extensive repairs needed to our church building.

Not forgetting our legal responsibilities as Wardens’, we can confirm there have been no known additions or deletions to record our church assets and goods register.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

The financial activities and position for the Parish as a whole are set out on pages 2 and 3 of the accounts.

St. George’s Parish Church

The continuing general economic and the cost-of-living challenges have had a severe effect on our finances again this year. We have continued to ensure only essential spend to minimise our expenditure, and reprioritise some maintenance activities during the year to protect our financial operating position. Although PCC authority remained in place to sell shares from our reserves, we were able to avoid this by using extraordinary income from legacies to manage our liquidity and ensure the required levels of cash flow. We need to continue to address the need to increase our income. Under normal circumstances a significant annual surplus is vital if we are to remain solvent and have the reserves that we need to meet major capital costs and to continue our Mission and Ministry, recognising we have three church owned buildings to maintain and run under our internally tracked St George’s financial management system accounts. Over the last three financial years, the receipt of generous legacies, albeit some being restricted, in addition to share value increases have acted as our financial survival blanket; we also benefited in 2024 by a lower Parish Share Request.

Planned and committed regular weekly or monthly giving is the main foundation of our church funding; the shift in society and culture has resulted in the younger members of our congregation not always willing to embrace this approach unlike our more senior (in age) members. There is an ongoing need to supplement our income through much needed additional fundraising. During the year, our Stewardship income has in general terms reduced. We need to ensure that we all review our levels of giving on a regular basis; there are known challenges recognising the ongoing cost of living crisis, along with ongoing changes culturally and in society in general. eee

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

St. George’s Parish Church (continued)

The annual income from the Transmitter Contract provides a good regular financial foundation. The income that we receive from HMRC through Gift Aid remains a vital income source. Due to the need to apply for anew HMRC charity account (for the new parish), our Gift Aid re-claim for the 2024 accounting year will be, delayed slightly. We must ensure that we continue to encourage people to use Gift Aid as much as possible, recognising the significant benefit it brings to charity finances.

We have benefited considerably through being locked into a fixed energy tariff for Gas and Electricity for both the Church and Hall which ended in 2024. We secured new fixed term energy tariffs, and whilst much higher than previous tariffs overall we secured favourable new deals. The rental income for the Hall remained generally favourable throughout this year, generating a positive effect financially. This along with the proceeds from the Christmas Fayre has generated a pleasing surplus, with sustained levels of rental incomes being anticipated.

Significant expenditure is still needed on the re-roofing repairs to the south side, which has been paused based on a risk / need based assessment. There is also a general backlog of maintenance and repair / refurbishments needed; therefore, this expenditure needs to be anticipated.

Our General (Unrestricted) expenditure (when excluding exceptional significant repairs to the Church Hall roof) was down compared to 2023 with the biggest item being our Parish Share Request but noting the reduction from 2023, the reduction was principally due to lower Regular Weekly Attendance being recorded. We also recognise the benefit we continue to gain through receipt of the Lowest Income Communities Funding (LICF) Grant which is used to offset (reduce) the level of our Parish Share Request.

As identified previously, maintenance costs were kept low as we sought to cut back on expenditure. Our maintenance costs are normally held at relatively low levels thanks to the hard work of a number of volunteers who carry out much of our routine maintenance. These gifts of Time and Talents are vital to us. Payments totalling almost £2,700 were made to the voluntary Barchester Scheme for our contribution of St. George's School, whilst a requested Parochial Donation of £300 (from St George’s Church) was made to St. Michael's School. Payments amounting to £3,100 were made the Choir Director and Organist, who is a PCC Member, for services provided during the year, which included Locum Organist Fees.

The Notes to the Financial Statements show that the total value of our investment funds as of 31 December 2024 was £248.674 which reflects the stock market levels with a gain over the year of £12,078.

We were notified in March 2022 of an (unrestricted) legacy from the Peter Lancaster estate. The estate administration was a lengthy process with a final distribution payment of £6,113 being received April 2024. In August 2024 we were notified by the Estate Administrators that an insurance policy had become known; this resulted in a final miscellaneous payment of £806 being made in September 2024. In August 2024, we benefitted again from another (unrestricted) legacy of £2,000 from the Derek Moss Estate.

Reserves associated with St. George’s include a Designated Fabric Fund of £40,000 and a Designated Restoration Fund of £30,000, Restricted Funds to support church maintenance and for church youth development totalling £23,074 with the General (Unrestricted) Fund totalling £282,061.

All Saints’ Parish Church

The indications of growth experienced since Fr Mike became Priest-in-Charge of All Saints’ supported by Fr Jordan, before the merger took place, started to have a positive impact on the designated finances at All Saints’. Growth has continued since the merger took place. As part of the support from Diocese within Vision 2026 Strategy of Healthy Churches Transforming Communities; we also continue to benefit from Regular Weekly Attendance figures not being included for new local congregations being developed for a five year period.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

All Saints’ Parish Church (continued)

The most significant costs during 2024 have been insurance and utility bills; due to previous financial pressures, a culture of minimal heating has been previously applied. This has been reversed to provide a more welcoming environment and help dry out a cold and damp church fabric.

Over the years a massive backlog of maintenance and repair has occurred; the challenges are known with the need for a recovery strategy to be developed in 2025 following completion of a Quinquennial Inspection in 2024 with indications of repair costs against a wide range of building related issues. It is recognised that grant funding will be required, and it is the plan to seek advice and support from the Diocesan Buildings Team as to the best route to pursue grant funding.

During 2024, a small financial surplus was generated to support the future financial needs of the church mission and building; the financial surplus increased over the previous year due to increased stewardship giving, donations and a very successful Christmas Fair fundraising event. We also recognised our responsibilities of supporting our schools with a requested Parochial Donation of £300 (from All Saints’ Church) which was made to St. Michael's School.

The hard work, enthusiasm and commitment of the congregation members should be recognised for their very successful efforts of increasing church income including organising regular fundraising events. All Saints’ received indirect support from the diocese in terms of no additional parish share request for the All Saints’ Church Building due to funding formula excluding Curates in the value calculations and also for Curates (including housing costs) being fully funded by Diocese and the National Church.

The income that we receive from HMRC through Gift Aid is used to further offset our low levels of income to support day to day operating costs, especially gas, for heating purposes. Due to the need to apply for a new HMRC charity account (for the new parish), our Gift Aid re-claim for the 2024 accounting year will be delayed slightly.

Reserves associated with All Saints’ include a Restricted Fabric Fund totalling £4,128, and the General (Unrestricted) Fund totalling £19,755. Given the current inherited status of All Saints’ Church finances, prudent and robust financial management is more appropriate in the short to medium term instead of formulating a specific Investment and Reserves Policy which is in place for St George’s designated finances.

Investment and Reserves Policy

Our Reserves currently include a number of Restricted Funds; during the year appropriate costs were allocated to the applicable funds, some which are now exhausted. At the end of the year, the Restoration Fund stands at zero. The Jenny Mercer legacy (restricted to working with children and young people" under the terms of the bequest which stands at £1,419. A further Restricted Fund which was opened in 2023 for the John Lowe Legacy totalled £21,655; this was restricted to church building repairs and youth activities including provision of a portable altar.

The Reredos Fund was launched back in December 2021 with the aim of raising £35,000 to pay for the restoration of the painted panels behind the High Altar. At the end of 2023, this target when taking into consideration the value of the future Gift Aid reclaim in 2023 was slightly exceeded. Further donations were made to the fund in 2024. It is anticipated that the full cost of the Reredos Conservation and Restoration will be paid from the fund when the Gift Aid Reclaim, and grant from a future Listed Places of Worship VAT Reclaim Grant Scheme application for the final stages of work are received. We are pleased to note that this scheme has been further extended for a further year by the Government, which we consider vital in helping maintain our Grade 2* Listed building.

In the light of our continued challenged financial position and concern regarding potential future repair costs, the PCC maintained the Investments and Reserves Policy, set back in 2022, noting that the revised policies agreed are reflected below.

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Investment and Reserves Policy (continued)

The PCC decided to continue to maintain a slightly larger operating Reserve based on potential known significant maintenance requirements within the next five years and an amount equivalent to six months’ general running costs. These can be summarised as: £26,000 - Church boiler replacement (Hydrogen ready gas condensing boilers), £28,000 - Choir Vestry flat roof replacement including an increase of outlet sizes for upper roof drainage, £21,000 - Roofing section repairs and general specialist repairs; along with this £75,000 - six months operating costs. £150,000 was designated for this purpose. It should be noted that this excludes any provision of costs for short term unplanned significant maintenance requirements for the Church Hall or Red Bank.

The PCC has also funds from the Tom Hilton Legacy which was left to us for general church purposes. Additionally, whilst there has been a delay in receipt of the Peter Lancaster (Unrestricted) legacy, originally notified in 2022, the final distribution was paid in April 2024, with an unexpected miscellaneous distribution also paid in September 2024.

We continue to hold an amount required for likely building works identified at the Quinquennial Inspection (the Fabric Fund of £40,000) and also a Discretionary fund for Restoration Phase 3, which stands at £30,000. Any remaining monies are seen as General Reserves for the Parish Church of St. George purposes (including associated church owned buildings) and for ministry and planned mission initiatives. Reserves are held in short term deposits and longer-term investments through the Church of England Board of Finance Deposit and Investment Funds managed by CCLA.

Short term deposits are maintained to ensure that they are readily available to meet the financial requirements of the Church and longer-term investments are held in the Investment Fund of the Church of England Board of Finance to ensure an appropriate and ethical approach to the application of our investments. Allowance needs to be made in our planning for any future adverse stock market movements or trends which might limit our ability to meet our policy objectives.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

The PCC remains very mindful about ensuring continued robust financial planning and management across the whole of the extensive parish. We have significant maintenance and operating costs to consider in relation to St. George's Church, St George's Church Hall, and Red Bank Mission Hall. Medium to longer term projects have been considered without commitment or specific priority. In relation to the church building, whilst the last Quinquennial Inspection undertaken by our Appointed Architect in April 2024 identified that the church building was very well maintained and cared for, a number of short and medium term repair and improvement projects needs were identified. There are also a number of medium to longer term projects for the Church Hall that need to be planned. Red Bank Mission Hall remains an important building for our Uniformed Organisations. Where possible, maintenance and repair activities are undertaken by the in-house volunteer buildings team.

A planned Pastoral Scheme was formally approved, effective from 1 August 2023; this united the parishes of St. George and All Saints’ into a single parish. This has further strengthened the mission and discipleship across an extensive parish boundary. It is recognised that this will be very challenging, noting we now have another church building to maintain which is in need of very significant repair and refurbishment, the full extent identified as part of a new Quinquennial Inspection undertaken by our Appointed Architect in August 2024.

However, we remain confident that it will be successful and achievable and importantly recognising the significant opportunities for mission and helping transform the local area.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHORLEY SAINT GEORGE AND ALL SAINTS

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

We remain extremely fortunate for the support we receive at both deanery and diocese level recognising the importance of Vision 2026’, our very robust diocesan vision and strategy for supporting parishes to grow and work to help transform local communities.

It is also important we continue to monitor Net Zero objectives and implement appropriate recommendations in order to help protect our environment and planet.

Approved by the PCC and signed on its behalf: -

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Rev. M. Print
Mr. J. Bradley
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Mrs. L. Smith LW Mrs. L. Jolly Bs jy Mrs. S. Starkey 4-5 CAG A~]

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