## **Saltburn Parochial Church Council** **Emmanuel Church Annual Report 2025** ## **Introduction – Rev Adam Reed (Vicar)** Welcome to the Annual Report for 2025, where you will find encouraging reports on the life of Emmanuel Church. There are updates on the Church Shop, the Thursday morning Drop-In Breakfasts, the Arts Space, the Foodbank & Warm Hub, the Man Cave, and the ministry of Open the Book & Tiny Tots among others. As you read through the reports, please pause to pray for the ministry or group you have read about. ## **BAPTISM & CONFIRMATION** A particular highlight of 2025 was the Service of Baptism and Confirmation in November with Barry the Bishop of Whitby. It was a very real blessing for everyone present, and especially to the 14 candidates. In the years ahead I pray we will see many more people coming to a living faith in Christ and making public commitments through Baptism and Confirmation. ## **THE BOOK TABLE** A new addition to Emmanuel in 2025 was the book table with its distinctive table cover based on the book 'Have You Ever Wondered?' It was launched in January, and as well as being based in the hall in ECHO, it was set up in the town centre, in the Victoria pub during the Men's Breakfast and at the Methodist Church for the Food Festival. 100’s of books have been given or taken away, including many of the recently added Bibles. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the purchase of the books, and for those who have been courageous in sharing them with others. ## **GROWING TOGETHER IN FAITH AND UNDERSTANDING** 2025 provided ample opportunities for fellowship and learning together. It is one of the many blessings of Emmanuel to provide a rich diet of study courses, sermon series and teaching. It's worth highlighting the Lent Course on ‘Praying the Psalms’, and the following sermon series... - ‘According to the Prophets, Jesus is…’ - ‘According to the Prophets, the Holy Spirit is…’ - ‘The Signs in John’s Gospel’ - ‘Revelation 1-3’ The recorded sermons for these and other series are available on my SoundCloud page. https://soundcloud.com/adam-reed-995398402 ## **A QUIET REVIVAL?** The 2025 Quiet Revival report published by the Bible Society has unfortunately had to be withdrawn due to errors by YouGov. Whilst some social commentators have interpreted this as meaning there is no revival in the Christian faith in the UK, the numbers of church leaders sharing news of increasing attendance of young people would say otherwise. Whatever the numbers are, it is true that Emmanuel is seeing a steady stream of younger men and women coming into the church seeking and searching for God. I am so pleased to say that there is a young women’s group and a young men’s group that meet on a Friday and a Monday evening respectively. Please pray for these groups and for an ever-increasing number of young men and women to find the love of God in Christ here at Emmanuel. ## **321 COURSE** In June 2025 we held the second 321 Course where another 12-14 people explored the basic beliefs of the Christian Faith together over a meal. It is so uplifting to journey with people exploring the claims of Jesus. Some go on to decide to trust in Jesus and commit their lives to him. There are few things that bring such joy than accompanying people on this journey and seeing Jesus come alive to them. Please pray for this year’s 321 Course. ## **THANKSGIVING** Thank you to everyone who played a part, large or small, in the life of Emmanuel in 2025. I need to particularly thank George Brignall who stepped down as the church treasurer after many dedicated years of service. But the church finances have not moved far, as Margaret Brignall has kindly taken on this ministry from George. Thank you to Linda and Ann for their service this year as churchwardens, to Christine our parish administrator, and the members of the PCC. I want to pass on my thanks to all who maintain the worshipping life of the church, including the musicians, welcomers, intercessors, eucharistic ministers; and especially the retired clergy. And thank you to everyone who volunteers in the Church Shop week by week. I would like to close with a word of personal thanks for your kindness, prayers and understanding towards Estelle and me due to Estelle's health challenges. We are both very grateful. Rev Adam ## **LEADERSHIP:** The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of Emmanuel Church has the responsibility of cooperating with the vicar in promoting, in the parish of Saltburn by the Sea, the whole Mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical, and striving to ensure that all the Church’s activities and energies promote the aims of the Church’s agreed Mission statement ‘ _To grow in the love of God, and to share it with others’._ The PCC also has maintenance responsibilities for the fabric of the Church building on Windsor Road, and for the adjacent Church Hall and grounds. ## **SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:** ‘Saltburn PCC has complied with the duty under Section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have regard to House of Bishop’s guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults)’. ## **MEMBERSHIP OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (PCC):** Members of the PCC are either ex-officio or elected for a three-year period by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting except for the Treasurer and Secretary who are elected for an annual term of office, in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During the year 2025, the following served as members of the PCC: **Incumbent:** Revd Adam Reed (From June 2011) **Churchwardens** : Mrs Linda Johnson (elected June 2019) Mrs Anne Pallister (elected 2025) **Representatives on the Deanery Synod** : (from APCM 2023) Mrs Christine Pollard (PCC Secretary), Mr Norman Pictor (also on Diocesan Synod), Anne Findlay (resigned 2025) **Elected Members** : Mrs Margaret Brignall (Treasurer) **Elected APCM 2022** : (Until APCM 2025) Ms Maureen Payne, Mrs Jayne Holland (1 year only) **Elected APCM 2023:** (Until APCM 2026) Mr Joe Murphy, Mrs Sue Wheatley (appointed Parish Safeguarding Officer), Miss Veronica Govenlock (resigned December 2024), Mrs Caroline Scales, Mrs Ann Brignall (2 year vacancy) **Elected APCM 2024:** (Until APCM 2027) Mrs Angela Smelt (resigned November 2024), Mr Richard McElheran, Mrs Margaret Brignall (co-opted) **Elected APCM 2025** : (Until APCM 2028) Ms Tracy Duncan, Mrs Drisc Wardle, Mrs Djenane Watkins ## **LEADERSHIP COMMITTEES:** ## **Leadership Review of the Year:** The full PCC met six times during the year. At the meetings there were regular briefings on the financial state of the church as well as reports from our Deanery and Diocesan synod representative. ## **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 direction given by the Council. The Standing Committee is responsible for drafting the Annual Budget for approval by the PCC. It comprises the Vicar, the Churchwardens, the PCC Treasurer and one PCC Member ## **Churches Together in Saltburn:** Three parishioners represent Emmanuel Church on the ‘Churches Together in Saltburn’ Committee. ## **CHURCH ATTENDANCE:** The Church Electoral Roll renewed in 2025 and stands at 97 members. The average adult attendance on a Sunday was 76 and 3 children and Tuesday saw an average of 16 adults. The Church employs an invaluable part-time Administrator Christine Pollard. The Verger is Peter Jones, ably assisted by Betty Jones. Sue Scope is employed part time as Caretaker/Cleaner for ECHO. ## **COMMUNITY GROUPS, COMINGS AND GOINGS…** The social gatherings, breakfasts, PCC, the church shop, morning prayer, evening prayer, Bible Studies, Lent Course, 321 Course, Movie Nights, Spanish Night, Silent Auction, coffee mornings and Home Groups are where we build **community** and grow in **discipleship** . Heather Ainsley organised a coach trip away for a small group in November. Christine Pollard led the Ladies Retreat to Lindisfarne in June staying at Marygate House; a time of creativity, exploring the island, prayer and reflection. Rev Adam led the Men’s Weekend Away to Lindisfarne in July once again staying at Marygate House; a good time of fellowship, learning and prayer. **Thirst 4 Thought** discussion group began again meeting in The Marine on the first Sunday of the month. Visitors continue to respond to invitations to join events and services publicised on our website: www.emmanuelsaltburn.co.uk and Facebook page. **Brownies & Guides** comprising approximately 60 children, made use of the Church Hall on Wednesday evenings. A **Seated Exercise Class** led by **Harry Simpson** met each Tuesday morning attended by a mixed age group as well as **Estelle** with **Zumba Gold** on a Monday evening and **G&J Fitness** on a Wednesday morning. The **U3A** continues to hire ECHO regularly for meetings and classes including poetry, play reading, creative writing; French, singing for pleasure, music appreciation, paper and card crafts, Spanish, craft and sewing, Latin, earth studies, Russian and a discussion group. Other community groups such as Saltburn Allotment Association, Friday Friends, Befrienders, individual small groups and businesses use ECHO for various meetings and training sessions throughout the year. Our **ArtSpace exhibition area** was used for several exhibitions (please see separate report). The exhibitions always attract many visitors to the church enabling us to express our journey of faith to the wider community. **Open Church** opened many Saturday afternoons and some Sunday afternoons to coincide with the exhibitions in the Artspace. Visitors always express how grateful they are to be able to spend time in the church. Members of the church continue to be involved in the work of **Doorways** along with members of other Churches in the town. Doorways employs Neil Harris and a part time worker Michelle Fewsdale. Please see separate report. Our **Spirit Matters** page in Talk of the Town which we publish quarterly reached every home in the town and across the world via their website. We held our **Christingle** service which encouraged families attending the local primary school to support the **Children’s Society** . The **Week of Prayer for Christian Unity** is always well supported across the town with Churches Together gathering at the Methodist Church and Emmanuel Church in 2025. ## **REPORTS** ## **Artspace@Emmanuel:** At Emmanuel, we believe that Art in all its many forms is a gift from God, who is himself an artist and creator. During the year we have provided opportunities for exploring technique, creating artworks and exhibiting the work of our community. Each exhibition has sought to celebrate both the handiwork of the artists and the heart of our creator God and has also provided an opportunity to welcome visitors into the church. With the help of volunteers, we started the year with a good clean and repaint of the Artspace. Their hard work was much appreciated as it is a constant challenge to keep the space clean and free of debris due to the condition of the brickwork. The five exhibitions held during the year displayed great diversity and the ability of contributors to take a theme and run with it in unexpected directions, was greatly admired by visitors. **‘In the Moment’** (21[st] February – 29[th] March) – A solo exhibition celebrating the work of local artist, David Mattches. Each painting capturing a moment in time which invited the viewer to stop and wonder. As a published author, the exhibition also featured text, and we held a writing workshop in line with the theme of the exhibition. Over 90 people came to visit our first exhibition of the year. **‘Cross Roads’** (12[th] April – 24[th] May) – An open exhibition where artists were invited to explore the theme, a choice of path, a change of direction, or a reflection on the season of Easter. The exhibition featured artwork that reflected the wonderful walking heritage of the North Yorkshire Moors. Thank you to Barbara Murphy for arranging a contribution from Tiny Tots. **‘All Creatures...’** (18[th] July – 7[th] September) – An eclectic exhibition exploring and celebrating life in all its forms; from the natural world to the imagination. **‘At the Door’** (26[th] September – 27[th] October) – An exhibition exploring the most common or fantastical and everything in between. Standing on the threshold, either looking out or looking in. As part of this exhibition a Wine and Cheese tasting evening was hosted within the Artspace to raise funds for the Doorways Youth Project. **‘Let There Be Light’** (22[nd] November – 4[th] January 2026) - An exhibition celebrating the coming of light into the world. Over 50 different artists contributed to the four open exhibitions, some for the first time. There were between 20 and 45 people at each of the exhibition launch events and open church attracted many visitors over the 36 sessions. These can only take place through the dedication of volunteer stewards and church wardens who ensured the church was open and welcoming for visitors. Their support is much appreciated. The Art Club which meets on the second Sunday of every month is well established with some new people joining during the year as well as regular attendees. The group have enjoyed learning and the challenge of creating items for the exhibitions. January - Celtic Design and Interwoven shapes on paper February - Celtic Design and Interwoven shapes in clay March - An image is more than a picture – depicting emotional events with a particular focus on the crucifixion April – Textured Surface – creating abstract landscapes in collage and paint May – Fur and Feather, techniques depicting texture in paint and clay June – Small birds in Papier-Mâché – thank you to Margaret Bennett for running this workshop July – Science Fiction – Creatures of the Imagination – a drawing workshop August – Portals in Paint – acrylics on large canvas September – The Stumble – creating cartoons in pen and ink October – Starburst – acrylic paint on canvas November – Light and Shadow – Pencil drawing still life December – Pointillism in Miniature – the creation of pictures using tiny dots. The aims for 2026 are: • to increase the scope of publicity for Open Church and the exhibitions, - to continue to build relationships with the artistic community in Saltburn and the surrounding area, and - to explore the development of art experiences as part of the church’s outreach to families and children. I am grateful to all those who support the Artspace, all the volunteers, contributors, hosts and encouragers, but a special thank you to Mike Sivewright who patiently hangs all the artworks and to Christine Pollard for her administrative support. ## _Pat Sivewright_ ## **Buildings Fabric Report:** Across 2024 and 2025 the PCC discussed and decided to install solar panels on the roof of the ECHO building, along with battery storage. This was installed and came online in the autumn of 2025, and the initial figures over the darker winter months has been very encouraging. In 2025 our new church architect Kynan Simmons undertook the QI. The PCC is awaiting the full report before deciding what work needs to be prioritised on the church building. On the ECHO building new LED lighting was installed in the Jubilee room, external lighting and minor repairs and maintenance carried out through the year. The cleaning and tidying of the church, ECHO and the grounds is carried out by different people, but in particular I would like to thank Andy Pollard for his time and commitment to looking after the fabric of both buildings, and Jo Davy for keeping the church grounds looking so well. _Rev Adam on behalf of the Standing Committee_ ## **Children & Young People: Treasure Seekers** Emmanuel's children's ministry on a Sunday morning, has faced a few challenges for some years now. Regular attendance by children with their families has been infrequent and unpredictable, which has hampered a core group forming and growing together. The leaders of TS have faithfully given their time to prepare and lead sessions. Numbers may have been small, but the love and care shown by the leaders will have been a blessing to the children attending. Please pray for our ministry to children and young people, and especially for our provision on a Sunday morning. _Rev Adam on behalf of the Children’s Ministry Team_ ## **Church Charity Shop:** Throughout 2025 opening times have remained at four days a week. Monday mornings have been busy accepting donations, changing window displays and restocking rails and shelves. We have received a lot of top quality and generous donations which have generated a lot of interest and income. We have had many compliments on the window displays and the appearance of the shop. We have a group of twenty-four volunteers who support the shop in various ways. We were pleased to welcome a new volunteer and also to provide the opportunity for a Huntcliff student to volunteer for her Duke of Edinburgh Award. We were deeply saddened by the death of Cynthia Hall who had been a faithful volunteer on Tuesday mornings for many years. In March we staged a fashion show, a well-attended and enjoyable fashion social event with many bargains to purchase. We continued to support the Great North Air Ambulance and appreciate the help of Mike and Helen who collect and store the bags for collection by the Air Ambulance team. We donated to Saltburn in Bloom and the town Christmas Lights. The net income of £55870 a small increase on 2024 and supports the mission and outreach of Emmanuel including donations to charities. _Margaret Brignall on behalf of the Shop Team_ ## **Drop in Breakfast:** The church community breakfast continues to go from strength to strength. The diversity of those coming for breakfast continues to show what a blessing it is for many groups. For some it is a chance to meet up with friends, for others it's a safe space to chat and share their lives. We are grateful to those from church who sit and listen to the strangers we welcome. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Matthew 25v35. We cater for 120 and usually run out of supplies. Although it's free, we often get donations with one person from the parish currently paying for all the bread rolls each month. Our wonderful team has welcomed new helpers and despite it seeming like an enormous task, it all runs like clockwork, from the posters being put up, to the shopping and set up and the cooking and clearing away. We are always grateful for those 'breakfast eaters' who stay after a busy morning, to help tidy the tables and chairs and leave the hall clean and ready for Man Cave. We very much appreciate your prayers and the support of the church and give thanks to God for this ministry. _Sharon Gerrard on behalf of the Breakfast Team_ ## **DoorWays:** 2025 was a positive year for Doorways. Our ECHO based drop in developed as some of our older ones moved on, but keep in touch with adhoc meet ups in the year. We are glad that our new cohort of year 7 and 8s joined the group and bring their own personalities along. Thanks for Mary Lucas who serves as our regular faithful volunteer. Our work in Huntcliff, Freebrough and Laurence Jackson and our faith witness there has continued in strength. Once again Adam and I were able to host the school at Emmanuel for their annual Christmas carol service. I had positive feedback from both staff and students on the talk we gave. Thanks to the many fundraisers Emmanuel and others did in 2025 which, we as the missional arm of the Saltburn Churches have been blessed by and truly do impact our out of school work. 2026 is our final year funded by the current Lottery bid so we value your prayers as we apply to them and others to further our work. _Rev Neil Harris DoorWays_ ## **Finance:** At the end of 2025 the balances had decreased by £11,000 which included £6000 from the reserves. Voluntary income increased by £24,000 due mainly to generous one-off donations which were used towards the cost of solar panels on the hall roof. Income from the church shop showed slight increase of £224. General expenses increased by £29,000 this year. The large expenses on the church building, the cost of solar panels and new lighting in the Jubilee Room have contributed to the increase in general expenditure. To maintain and administer the church during 2025 cost approximately £3787 a week. The total weekly income was approximately £3511 so there was a weekly shortfall of £216. Charitable donations included Doorways £2680, Foodbank £1000, Barnabas Fund £1000, Joshua Community Care £1000, Speak Life UK £500, Water Aid £1000, OMF (Adam Young) £2000, Children’s Society £100, other charities £1647. _Margaret Brignall (Treasurer)_ ## **Foodbank/WarmHub:** Foodbank continued throughout 2025, every Tuesday from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, with volunteers from Emmanuel, Our Lady of Lourdes and from Footprints, and is now in its fifth year. It continues to serve a wide range of people from across East Cleveland, especially many families. Demand continues and so will Foodbank. Numbers of people fed now exceed 500 in each year. Food comes from the Footprints central warehouse in Dormanstown, where we also have Church volunteers working, and from Church donations, Emmanuel and Our Lady of Lourdes. Numbers did drop in the first half of 2025 but have significantly picked up. Again, a result of a donation from Sue Welburn’s Homegroup Xmas coffee morning, and some individual donations, we were able to provide Gosnay’s Vouchers to help families with Christmas. Additionally, there have been some individual donations to be used to purchase items which are in short supply usually cleaning products and washing powder. Each week have a representative from Citizens Advice Bureau which can be of great assistance to clients. Additionally, during the colder months Foodbank works in conjunction with the WarmHub. It operates alongside Foodbank and offers a warm welcome, in a warm place, with warm soup and a roll, plus tea and coffee, cakes and biscuits (and Mince Pies and Hot Cross Buns depending on the season). It serves both Foodbank clients and many others who drop in, or join from Church activities. In a relaxed and friendly environment, it proves very popular and needed. Sometimes just having something to eat, and a gentle chat, can be very therapeutic for both young and old, and we have some regular customers. We are blessed with many volunteers who give their time freely. _Richard Smelt on behalf of the Foodbank Team_ ## **Guisborough Deanery Synod:** The Deanery Synod is one of the levels of the Church of England’s (C of E) Synodical structure which comprises: The General Synod; Diocesan Synods; Deanery Synods; PCCs. The first meeting was in February. There was information about the work that had been done by Bishop Barry. There was a Deanery Day in June with guest speaker Steve Osmond. The next meeting was in July. There was a presentation and discussion with Phil McBride and Jan Grey from the Diocesan Generous Giving Team. There was news from General Synod and Diocesan Synod. There was feedback from the Deanery Morning in June and an update on the Upleatham Trust and the next round of grant allocations. In the October Synod there was news from General Synod and Diocesan Synod. There was also an update about the process for the next round of grant applications from the Upleatham School Trust. During the year the Area Dean updated the Synod on various matters including pastoral reorganisations, vacancies, appointments, etc. There was also news from the churches in the Deanery. Throughout the year the Deanery Financial Adviser provided updates on the parish financial contributions to the Diocese and the Deanery Treasurer gave updates on the Deanery finances. There were safeguarding updates at each meeting. _Norman Pictor, Deanery & Diocesan Synod Representative_ ## **Home Groups and Small Groups:** Emmanuel hosts five regular Home Groups, as well as the Young Men’s Group run by Geoff Bland and the Young Women’s Group run by Amy Dobson. It's encouraging that 50+ people meet weekly or fortnightly for prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, with many groups joining together to study during Lent. Please join me in thanking the leaders and coordinators of these groups, and for the time and energy they give to nurturing them. Some groups make the time to visit places such as Wydale Hall for day retreats and fellowship. I would encourage all church members to consider being part of a small group or home group. If there isn't an existing group that suits you, then please do consider starting one. I would be happy to help. _Rev Adam_ ## **Men’s Breakfast:** The Men’s Breakfast met on the first Saturday of each month in 2025. There were regularly about a dozen men attending. Many were from the local churches with occasional visitors and some on the fringes of Christian faith. The venue changed but has become established at Saltburn House. Each gathering provides space to talk and share news before closing with a time of prayer for each other and the wider community. _Rev Adam on behalf of the Men’s Breakfast_ ## **Music:** Musicians are not in plentiful supply for the 9am services, but Caroline and Elizabeth manage to do most Sundays between them. On the rare occasions when neither can play, the use of technology has been very helpful. **The 9am Choir** has continued to support the singing at that service, throughout the year, as well as joint 10am services. I am pleased that we now have 6 singers - 3 ladies and 3 men. More singers are always welcome. We practice fortnightly on Mondays at 7pm, during term time. See Caroline if you are interested. cscalesmusic@gmail.com **The Pop-Up Choir** has sung at special services during Holy Week and at Christmas. These services, written by Djenane Watkins, have proved very popular. The choir has worked very hard on each occasion, and they have really added to the special atmosphere of these evenings with their beautiful singing. _Caroline Scales on behalf of the 9am Musicians_ ## **Music for the 10:45 service** A small team of musicians brought musical worship to the 10.45 service, backed up by prerecorded music. Many new songs have been introduced across the year especially from CityAlight. Using the laptop and projector at the service allows for a greater breadth of musical choices including songs not in the hymn book or new song book which is used at the 9am service. Terry Dickinson and Elizabeth Lester have played at the Tuesday communion service which is much appreciated by the congregation. ## **Open the Book:** Open the Book is a programme which comes within the Bible Society. It enables stories from the bible to be presented in primary schools by teams of volunteers from local churches. There are many teams across the UK. We take assembly at Saltburn Primary School. One person introduces the story, which is then presented by members of the team taking roles, with a narrator doing most of the storytelling. The story concludes with a practical application, and the session finishes with a song. Most weeks a few children are required to be part of the cast or to assist with props. There is always an abundance of willing volunteers. We attend fortnightly on Wednesday morning to take assembly, and we meet the Wednesday that we are not in school for preparation. It is disappointing that during the year there has been a further reduction in the classes attending assembly. Since the start of the 25/26 school year only years 1 and 2 are present. In 2024 year 3 also attended. The team finished the year with six members. Christina and Robert Dring having moved out of Saltburn and Maureen Payne also felt the time had come to leave the group. They gave several years of enthusiastic service for which we are grateful. Six is a sufficient number if everyone is available but illnesses and other demands arise and it is often the case that there are fewer than six of us present. If one or two others were interested in joining, they would be welcome. The team also participated in the school’s Easter, harvest and Christmas services held in Emmanuel. Several members of the Emmanuel participate in an Open the Book team at Skelton Primary School linked with Skelton Methodist Church. _Mike Sivewright on behalf of the OTB Team_ ## **Pastoral Ministry:** We are a small team, and current members include myself, Julie Scott, Susan Wheatley, Alison Hullah, Heather Taylor and Pauline Wright. Our dear sister in Christ, Liz Buckle, played a huge role in our team and since she passed away, we have struggled with our own grief and sadness Liz ministered to us all so selflessly and so beautifully. Her heart was full of grace, kindness, compassion and love. She taught us so much about serving those who are in great need. She was simply wonderful and her faith shone through in everything she did. Her heart to serve the Lord in this area of ministry was truly a blessing to many and certainly a blessing to the team. We remember her with love and thanks, and she will never be forgotten. The team continue to keep connected via WhatsApp and face to face meetings. Adam oversees our ministry and I meet with him regularly to update or share any specific concerns. We are supported by our Parish Safeguarding Officer, Susan Wheatley. Sue ensures our statutory training and police checks are up to date and in line with Diocese policy. Sue’s support is invaluable. What does Pastoral support look like in Emmanuel? It could be an actual home visit, a text or telephone call. It could be dropping off a bunch of flowers or a card. It could be supporting those who find it difficult to attend appointments. It could be a meet up for a coffee and a chat. It could be taking home communion to those who find it difficult to get to church. It could simply be a smile and a listening ear. Really it depends entirely on the needs of individuals and whatever we can help them with. Some people may find it easy to ask for help, with others this may not be the case. We seek the support of the whole Body of Christ and rely on you to bring to our attention anyone who may need a visit or who may be struggling. Visits vary depending on circumstances. They could be in the home, hospital, care homes, respite centres. We are very familiar with Meadowgate Rehabilitation Centre and many of the care homes in our local area. We have a very good relationship with the Anchor Residential Care home in Skelton. We visited our dear Ann Dewing regularly until she died recently. The staff were always lovely, and we always got such a warm welcome. Terry, Angela and Heather consistently visit Clayton House to share communion with a lovely group of residents. They look forward every month to a wonderful time of worship and fellowship. This is such beautiful outreach. Our dear Marjorie continues her visits with home communion and continues to do an amazing job of looking after our communion boxes. Her dedication ensures all the boxes are ready to go. So much support goes unseen and we give thanks to all those who serve the Lord tirelessly and so faithfully. Thanking God for them. As a church family we have suffered great loss this year. Many amazing Saints have died and are now in our Lord’s eternal arms. Even though we know they are rejoicing in God’s Kingdom it is still very hard. Support with bereavement has been crucial and is still ongoing. We remember the families who are trying to come to terms with such grief and loss. Please be with them Lord. We thank God for the privilege and honour to serve him in this ministry and thank him for the blessing of grace, love, humility compassion and kindness. In Christ Jesus we have our greatest role model. _Love and prayers, Sue Welburn on behalf of the Pastoral Team_ ## **Prayer Chain:** The prayer chain continues to be an integral part of our church ministry and a constant lifeline not only for our church family but for our loved ones, friends and the wider community. It has been an extremely challenging year and my heart aches for those we have loved and lost. Many of our long-standing prayer warriors have passed away, and we miss them very much. We remember with love and thanks: Liz Buckle Cynthia Hall Ann Dewing They were dedicated and faithful members of our prayer chain and believed passionately in the power of prayer. We remember their families in our prayers as they journey through grief and loss. The chain has had a complete refresh at the beginning of 2026. Some members have left whilst new members have joined. Lots of different branches make up the complete chain and everyone has a role to play. I feel confident members know who they receive from and who they send to. It runs smoothly and without complications, and if I receive a prayer request, very quickly over 30 members will be contacted, and will start praying immediately. God is good. I met a lovely lady recently who lives in another part of our country. Her sister asked the prayer chain to pray for her many years ago when she was first diagnosed with cancer. Over the years she has had many treatments, and we have continued to pray. Her sister has sent me regular updates. Meeting her was a real privilege and such a blessing to know she is currently in remission. What an amazing answer to prayer. She was overwhelmed to hear we had been praying for her for years and so very thankful. What an awesome Saviour we have. Thanking God for the many answered prayers and thanking him for hearing the earnest prayers of our hearts. A huge thank you to everyone who is part of this vital ministry. Thank you for your support, care, compassion and perseverance in prayer and petition on behalf of so many. You are amazing prayer warriors _Sue Welburn_ ## **Prayer Ministry:** Prayer ministry has not been available at Sunday services. If you need prayer for physical or inner healing, or anything else that concerns you, please text or phone Ian Guy on 07472 700 750. ## **Psalms & Stretches:** 2025 began with a successful and very moving Psalms & Stretches retreat day in January. Estelle was supported by Pat Sivewright and Steve Weatherill in a day of movement, worship music, interactive reflection, prayers and fellowship based on the words of Psalm 5.1-3. Unfortunately, due to Estelle's ill health, Psalms & Stretches only took place on a couple of occasions in 2025. But there is hope that it will begin again at some point in 2026. _Rev Adam on behalf of Estelle Reed_ ## **The Man Cave:** The purpose of the Man Cave is to have a meeting place for a social and activity group for men in Saltburn and surrounding areas. We want to build a community through ongoing fellowship, support and just putting the world to right! The group meets weekly at ECHO in the main hall with the emphasis on fun and friendship. Activities include table games, table tennis, snooker, cards, scrabble and quizzes. Tea, coffee and biscuits supplied. There are also occasional outings. When anyone new comes they are welcomed straightaway and offered the chance to participate in any activities that are available. All this is achieved without being too in your face. If you need space, you will get it. Here is a place where you’re valued as a person, where your opinions count, you feel more than just someone who is isolated or lonely. The vision for The Man Cave group is to make friends, feel safe and listened to and have fun and maybe try something new. Myself and Bob Hartley are representatives that run the administration. Bob, whose background is in health and safety, has taken the responsibility of running this area for the Man Cave. Like last year, our members have taken up the ownership of the Drop In, and all are taking part in setting up, making coffee and any chores that need doing. Our attendance is very fluid with about 6 to 15 men a week, but we have 24 men on the books. Leaflets have been printed for a recruitment drive around Saltburn and surrounding areas in the coming weeks. Hopefully this coming year we will get a banner to advertise Man Cave to the passing public. The outreach of the Man Cave has already had effects in the community. Thanks to councillor Philip Thomson we were nominated for The Mayors Community Achievement Award to which we successfully achieved, we received a certificate in a presentation at the Civic Centre. Mark who runs the Building Bridges project which supports men with social difficulties regularly brings in 2 to 4 of his clients to play pool, dominoes and table tennis. Unfortunately for us Mark has decided to retire and close the centre. The good thing is he is still going to support us and the lads are staying. Another success of the outreach is that four or five men regularly attending the church’s men’s breakfast mornings at Saltburn House and engaging with the prayer time. Thanks to Julie Martin for leaving us the milk from Tiny Tots, Christine for keeping the supplies of tea and coffee going and the occasional assistance with technical things (coffee machine). All these deeds are truly appreciated by the lads. We have taken a longer look at activities end now offer Scrabble (at your own peril, very competitive) and darts. Others such as movies, Holey Moley’s and tenpin bowling are on the agenda for the year ahead. The group meets weekly each Thursday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm and there are wheelchair access and accessible toilet. _For All Our Men …. come as you are and just be yourselves, drop in any time between the opening times._ _Joe Murphy on behalf of the Man Cave Team_ ## **Tiny Tots Family Drop-In** : Tiny Tots family drop in, is a parent and carer toddler group, for children aged 0 to 4 years. We meet weekly on a Wednesday 1pm to 3pm, term time only. Tiny Tots is about bringing families together, especially those new to the area for friendship, meeting other cares and relaxing over a hot cup of tea or coffee, while their children play in a clean and safe environment. Tiny Tots has been a great opportunity for church volunteers to build relationships with families in the community, where they can feel safe to share and open about any problems that may have. This has been evident, where there has been those who have wanted prayer, and helps with food parcels, and material items for those in need. We have also had the privilege to invite the families into the church building, where they have been able to walk, look around and visit the art space, where the children have exhibited their art, to the delight of the children and their carers. On the back of this, several families have attended church at Christmas, as well as the Light Party. It's been good to see more dads and grandads present at Tiny Tots more recently. Occasionally Adam pops in for a coffee, and it has been great to see him engaging in conversation with the parents. Our Christmas Party was a great success, Adam gave the children the nativity story using his woollen puppets, much to the enjoyment of everyone. Nativity books for the children with their individual names written on them were also handed out. Books of Hope at the Light Party as well as the Easter Story will be gifted to the children again this year. Most importantly are the prayers we lift to the Lord led by Julie Martin before we open, and we pray for God's presence, his peace and love to be poured out amongst us. Many of our 3- to 4-year-olds now to go to part time or full-time nursery due to the government increasing the amount of support up to 30 hours a week. At our usual summer party we gave our leavers mortar boards to wear, a certificate with the receiver’s name on and a book on starting school was presented by Adam. In September we still had a few of our 2- to 3-year-olds but more baby’s this time are attending with their mummies and carers who have come into the area and making new friends. We are averaging between 12 and 17 children a week. Finally, a big thank you to all the volunteers and great appreciation for all their help and support at Tiny Tots, Julie Martin, Chris Bland, Alison Donelly, Jackie Franks, Angela Smelt and Ruth McElheran, and we also recently welcomed Jayne Robinson. _Barbara Murphy on behalf of the Family Drop In Team_ ## **The Party@ECHO:** The Party continued throughout 2025, with seven sessions held on the third Sunday of the month from 4pm to 5pm. We continued with the same format of games, a message from the Open the Book Team and party food. Sadly, despite additional advertising and opening the sessions to children from Skelton Primary School, the numbers attending declined throughout the year and is was agreed to finish with the November session. We had a great team who were passionate about seeing the children and their parents welcomed into the church and being introduced to the gospel. Grateful thanks to all the volunteers who made the party happen: Sharon, Chris, Abi, Laina, Rob, Ali, Mike, Pat, Richard, Angela, Caroline, Maureen. Every month families were welcomed, and a bible story was shared, through drama and puppets. It was encouraging to know that the stories were taken to heart. On one occasion, after the story of the widow’s mite, a young girl came up to me (I played the part of the widow) and offered me the money she had won in a game because she was sorry, I was poor and wanted to help me. Please pray for all the families who attended that, although The Party is finished, the truth and teaching of the stories will remain in their hearts. _Pat Sivewright on behalf of The Party Team_ ## **Waiting Room:** The Waiting Room is now in its third year. It is held on alternate Thursday mornings, 10am-12noon, at The Orangery, Victoria Terrace, and regularly attracts 10 plus participants. The aim is to offer a quiet space to enable reflection, reading, personal prayer, listening to Taizé style and other reflective music, and for a moment just being, rather than doing. Whether people sit in the orangery, work on reflective crafts in the dining room or sit in the summerhouse and marvel at God's creation, it offers an opportunity to be still in God's presence. It ran throughout 2025 and continues in 2026 and attracts a wide range of people including both church members and non-church members, some travel from Eaglescliffe and Guisborough. _Angela Smelt on behalf of The Waiting Room Team_ ## **Website Report:** This short report gives information about our website and the traffic it generates which I thought might be of interest to Church Members. For a small church website in the UK, there is no single ‘right’ number of website visits; however, according to Google, a reasonable, healthy goal for a small, active community church is to aim for roughly 100 to 300 visitors per month. This equates to 1,200 to 3,600 visitors per year. Emmanuel Church website statistics are as follows: - 2021–2022 2,800 visitors for the year 2023–2024 3,800 visitors for the year 2025–2026 4,500 visitors for the year Most visitors came from the UK. Almost three times as many were using mobiles, rather than a desktop. There is no single ‘correct’ amount of time someone should be on a webpage, but the average time spent on a page, again according to Google, is roughly 54 seconds. The more engaging the content then the longer someone will spend on a page. Our Home Page was, of course, the most popular and visitors stayed on average for one minute 12 seconds. The next most visited page was What’s On where they stayed for one minute 32 seconds. Interestingly, visitors to our Christmas page last year stayed on average for two minutes 54 seconds. Drisc Wardle ## **Women’s Fellowship Breakfast:** For about 2 years Women's Breakfast took place at the Spa Hotel, where 6 - 10 of us had a good social time, but sadly not much more than that. However, we felt we needed a change of venue, so in February we met at Saltburn House for the first time, where we really enjoyed a wonderful welcome. The ambience is beautiful; the food is always excellent and the prices very reasonable. We have a time of prayer, which makes the occasion even more special. Probably 10 - 14 of us gather at Saltburn House each month. ## _Margaret McElheran_ ## **Word Search:** Quite simply this is an opportunity to search God's word. It is held on alternate Mondays from 2pm to 3.30pm at The Orangery, Victoria Terrace. The recent focus has been on the questions Jesus asked eg - who do you think I am? -A wide range of participants, both young and old, attend and it is open to anyone= church members or non-church members. _Angela Smelt on behalf of The Waiting Room Team_ _May 2026 Charity No: 1131197 On behalf of the PCC Church Office 01287 622251 emmanuelchurchsaltburn@gmail.com www.emmanuelchurch.co.uk_ PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF EMMANUEL, SALTBURN STATEMENT OF FINANCAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECÉMBER 2025 Unre$tricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Funds Note General (Blank 2025 2024 INCOMING RESOURCES Voluntary iTrcome Income from donors Other voluntary inrome Total 89,188 1.101 90,289 89,188 64,T81 1,030 65,811 2b 90,289 Activites for generating funds Income from ¢hur¢h activities Income from trading activitie8 Total 2¢ 2d 2,117 92.204 94,321 2.117 92.204 94,321 2,331 92,834 95, 165 other non-re¢urring receipts Inter&8t on bank deposits 2e 1,138 1,138 Totsl Incoming resources 185,748 186.748 162.421 RESOURCES USED Charitsble activities Activitie5 relating directly to the work ol the Church Gr8nts Church trtanagernent and adtnin. Tot81 137.672 10,927 26,877 175,476 137,672 10,927 26.877 175.476 110.523 9,770 26,259 146,552 3b 3¢ Fundraising trading Costs of generating voluntary incorne Depreciation of fixed assets 3d 3e 13,827 80 13,827 80 7,554 13,727 Total resources used 196,937 196,937 167.910 Net Incomlnglloutgolngl resourc88 111,189 111,1891 15,4891 Balan￿$ brought forward 8t 1 January 2024 337,812 337,812 343,301 BalanGes carrled fonvard at 310ecember 2024 328,623 326,623 337,812 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF EMMANUEL. SALTBURN BALANCE SHEET AT 31 DECEMBER 202b 2025 2024 Note Flxed Assets 271928 279.482 Current A$5ets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Totsl current a55ets 9,772 46,278 9.842 50,006 59.848 Liabrlites payable In I to 5 years -1,355 -1.518 NET ASSETS 326,623 337,812 Funds Unmstricted General 326,623 337,812 R85fryct8d TOTAL FUNDS 326,623 337 812 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF EMMANUEL, SALTBURN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE PCC FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Note 1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES The financial statements have been prepared, on the accruals basis, in accordan￿ with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the latest Charities SORP. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. Funds 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 which have initially been given to the PCC for a particular purpose. For these accounts, the Millennium Fund has been reclassified as unrestricted because the PCC is able to choose the purpose for which it is to be used. Endowment funds arise when money is given with the specific instruction that only the income may be spent, the initial capital sum remaining intact. There are no endowment funds recognised in these accounts. These 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 nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members. Incoming Resources Voluntary income and capital sources. Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Planned giving re￿1vable under covenant is recognised only when re￿ived. Income tax recoverable on covenants or gift aid donations is recognised when the donation 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. Funds raised by the Church shop, antique fairs and similar events are accounted for gross. Sales of books and magazines from the church bookstall are accounted for gross. other ordinary income. Rental income from the letting of church premises is recognised when the rental is due. Income from investments. Interest is accounted for when reGeivable. All interest is received gross, without deduction of Income Tax. PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF EMMANUEL, SALTBURN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE PCC FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Note 1 (continued) Resources Used Grants Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. Activities directly relating to the wod( of the Church. The diocesan freewill offering is accounted for when paid. Fixed Assets Consecrated land and buildings and movable church furnishings. Consecrated and benefiGed property is excluded from the accounts by sections 10{2)(a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011. No value is plaGed on movable church furnishings held by the churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal since the PCC Gonsiders this to be inalienable propety. All expenditure incurred during the year on consecrated or benefice buildings and movable church furnishings, whether Maintenan￿ or improvement, is written off as expenditure in the SOFA and separately disclosed. Other land and buildings Extensions and refurbishment of the church hall are included in these accounts as a fixed asset at cost less a depreciation charge of 20A per annum, intended to write off the value of the works over their estimated useful lrfe (see note 5). Other fixtures, r￿IngS and office equipment Equipment used within the Ghurch premises is depreciated on a straight line basis over 4 years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £2,000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. Current assets and liabilities Debtors include amounts owing to the PCC at the balance sheet date in respeGt of fees, rents or other income, less provision for amounts that may prove uncolleGtable. Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation and settlement is probable and quantifiable. PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF EMMANUEL. SALTBURN Unre5tri¢ttrd Fund8 Restrlcted Funds Total Funds INCOMING RESOURCES Blank Gonoral ￿ Town Clock 2025 2024 2a Income from donor5 Planned gnilng GfftAid bankers orders GfftAid &nv8lop8S Income lax recovered Non Gift Aid envelopes Other pl8nned glving Cash collections Gr8n15llegÈc Sum Up Sundry donations Total 24,870 6.121 12.140 3.478 7.828 6,405 1,000 3,181 24,165 24,870 6,121 12,140 3,478 7,628 6,405 1,000 3,181 24,165 27.066 6,085 9,998 3,859 7.480 6,059 1,500 1.155 1.579 64.781 2b Othervoluntsry Incomo So&al events Total 1.101 1,101 1,101 1.030 2¢ Income from ChyT£h adlvitla8 Church fees Totsl 2,117 2.117 2.331 Z331 2.117 2d Income from trdding actfjvttles foT ralsing lund8 Church shop sal8S 69.697 69,697 89,373 Church hall Photocopying Totsl 22,000 507 92,204 22,000 507 23,095 366 26 Non-reGurrtng receipts Insurance claims VAT recovèred ank loyalty bDnus Total RESOURCES USED 3a Activstiès dlre¢Uy ralating to the work of the Church Ministry.. Diocesan fre8wII ofFerfng Parsonage cost Upkeep of setViC88 Chur¢h heat, light, insurance, rates Church repairs, main18nance and equipmént (ground81 Ground5 Parfsh working exp8n5e$ Chlldren and youth work Training Choirand music Ml88ion Resources Refreshm&nts Chur¢h hall heat. light. insurgnrx, rates Church hall repairs. maintenance and equipm8nt Prof8ssional fe88 forchurch buldings Totsl 62,500 694 664 12,616 12,774 2,500 694 664 12,616 12,774 62,5QO 583 580 12,208 1,9n 1,828 598 1.828 598 1.935 714 90 996 2,364 1,371 2,349 399 473 8,903 32.503 1.371 2,349 399 473 8.903 32,503 433 8,936 14,207 2.598 110.523 137 672 137.672 3b Gr8nts Church ov&rs8a5 Mlssionary soclell88 Relief 2nd devèlopment ag8ncies Home rnisslons and Dlhar Chur¢h socielles Other ¢*8rit8ble societies Total 3,000 2,000 3,360 3,000 2,ODO 3.360 2,567 4,000 2,000 1,401 2.369 9,770 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF EMMANUEL. SALTBURN Unre5trtcted Funds Rèstrfcted Funds Total Ftsnds Note RESOURCES USED G8nèral Blank Town Clock 2025 2024 3¢ Church tnanagem8ntand admlnlstration Office equipment Postage, slalionery. telephone bank ch8rges Stsff costs Total 2,168 2.468 22.241 26,87Y 2,168 2,466 22,241 26,877 3.039 2.188 21.052 3d Fundralslng tr8dlng Church shop The net profil from the shop's activiiie5 for the yearwas £ 13,B27 13,827 q3.727 55,B70 20241556461 3e Costs of generatlng voluntsry Incorne Stewardshlp env8lop8S 80 80 77 4 Remuneratlon and b8neflts Gross Pay Nalional Insuran Pension o)ntributions 30.771 28.862 1.460 32,522 The 8verdge numberof employees duriny th& yearwas 2 (2024-25). One (2025) employe8 was a￿0 a member ofthe PCC 2nd recaiv8d a lolal of £22342.6812024 £20947 041 in iemuneralion from the Council1581ary £20592, p8nsion contributions £1750.68). 5 Fixed A55ets Fr86hold land and buildinys Cost at 1st January 2025 Additionslldi5PD5als1 Cost at 31st De￿rnber2025 377,683 37T,683 377.683 377.683 D8pr8aation at 31st Dpcemb8r 2024 Depreriation charge forthe year DepreualioD at 315t D8cember2025 98,201 7,554 05,755 98,201 7,554 105,7S5 Nel book value st 151 January 2025 Nel bookvalue at 31st DgGemb8r2025 279.482 271928 279.482 271928 6 Debtots Funeral Fee Income Tax r&covergble on Gift Aid Total 158 9.772 9,772 9.772 9,842 7 Cash at bonk and In hand General fund at bank Cash in hand Genèral fund al CBF 22.535 100 23,643 22.535 100 23.643 20,401 700 29,505 Totsl 46.276 50.006 8 Analy518 of net a5%ts byfund Fixed A55els 271928 271.928 279,482 Debtors ¢8sh al bank and in hand Total currènt asset8 9,712 46.278 56.050 9,772 46.278 56.OSO 9,842 50.006 Liabllltles payable In 1-5 yeajs Energy a￿rU21 .1.355 .1.355 Total net a¥sBts 326.623 326 623 337.812 Parochial Church Council, Emmanuel Church, Saltburn by the Sea I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity for the year ended 31 De￿rnber 2025 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 Act"). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under section 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 Act. I have completed my 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 rnaterial respect the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act. 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. Michael Sivewright ACIB 15 Cormorant Drive, Redcar Parochial Church Council, Emmanuel Church, Saltburn by the Sea I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity for st the year ended 31 De￿rnber 2025 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 Act.). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under section 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 Act. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection wth the examination which gives me cause to believe that, in any material respect the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act. I have no COn￿rnS and have come across no other matters in connection wth the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be ￿8¢hed. Michael Sivewright ACIB 15 Cormorant Drive, Redcar