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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Cuckfield

2024-12-31-accounts

Joyfully Serving Jesus

The Parochial Church Council of the

Ecclesiastical Parish of Holy Trinity Cuckfield UK Registered Charity No. 1131432

ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[ST] DECEMBER 2024

Holy Trinity Church The Church Office The Old School Church Street Cuckfield West Sussex RH17 5JZ

Email: office@holytrinitycuckfield.org

Tel: 01444-456461

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Benefice of Cuckfield & Bolney The Parochial Church Council Holy Trinity Cuckfield

UK Registered Charity No. 1131432

ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[ST] DECEMBER 2024

Contents

Page
Annual Report 2
Statement of Financial Activities 14
Balance Sheet 15
Notes to the Accounts 16
Independent Examiner’s Report 24
Incumbent: The Revd Daniel Valentine
The Vicarage
5 Barrowfield, Cuckfield
West Sussex RG17 5ER
Independent Examiner: Amy Beecroft FCA
19 Newton Road
Lindfield
West Sussex RH16 2NB
PCC Bankers: Santander UK PLC
BBAM, Bridle Road, Bootle
Merseyside GIR 0AA
Barclays Bank PLC
South Road, Haywards Heath
West Sussex RH16 4ND
Old School Board CCLA
Bankers: Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street
London EC4V 4ET
HSBC Bank PLC
37-39 South Road, Haywards Heath
West Sussex RH16 4LQ
Friends of HSBC Bank PLC
Holy Trinity Bankers: 37-39 South Road, Haywards Heath
West Sussex RH16 4LQ
Correspondence: The PCC Secretary (pccsecretary@holytrinitycuckfield.org)
The Church Office
The Old School
Church Street, Cuckfield
West Sussex RH17 5JZ

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Annual Report

1. Status

The Parochial Church Council ( PCC ) is a Registered Charity (No. 1131432) under the formal description of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cuckfield . Two alternative short-form names are registered with the Charity Commission: Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield and Holy Trinity Cuckfield PCC .

The PCC is responsible for the assets and statutory duties of The Old School , adjacent to the Church, and the accounts for that activity are incorporated within this report. The PCC has appointed an Old School Board to assist it in the fulfilment of its obligations and effective management of the building.

The Friends of Holy Trinity is a PCC subsidiary organisation, conceived to assist in raising funds for the upkeep of the fabric of the Church, whose accounts are incorporated within those of the PCC. To maximize its effectiveness, the Friends have their own Board, and operate within terms of reference set by the PCC.

This Annual Report is prepared in accordance with the Church Representation Rules as revised which require the PCC to provide the Annual Meeting with the following: (a) a report on the changes to the roll since the last annual meeting; (b) an annual report on the proceedings of the PCC and the activities of the parish generally; (c) the financial statements of the PCC for the year ending 31[st] December preceding the meeting; (d) the annual fabric report under section 50 of the Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction and Care of Churches Measure 2018 ; and (e) a report of the proceedings of the Deanery Synod.

2. Purpose & Objectives

The primary objective of the PCC is the promotion of the Gospel of Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. In pursuit of this purpose, the PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the parish priest in the promotion within the parish of the whole mission of the church, pastoral, social, evangelistic and ecumenical.

The PCC’s aim in doing this is to make Christ better known, and to make a difference to the lives of those with whom we come in touch – whether or not members of the Church of England – in the form of:

3. Supporting Strategies

The strategy by which the objectives are currently achieved is joyfully serving Jesus in all we do, by which we mean:

We do this by enabling as many people as possible to worship at church; to become part of our parish community through the teaching, baptising and nurturing of new and existing believers; by considering how services can involve the many groups that live within the parish. We put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament, and provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish. These strategies are informed by and consistent with The Bishop’s Charge to the clergy of the Diocese in the form of the Diocese’s current strategy which is based on three strands: (i) growing in depth, holiness, then numbers; (ii) re-imagining the forms of ministry needed going forward; and (iii) engaging with local communities in pursuit of the Common Good.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

4. Public Benefit

While English Law historically recognised the provision of religion as charitable work, that presumption no longer holds. Under the latest Charities Acts, the PCC is aware that the provision of religion, education or relief of poverty must pass the public benefit test , and is not solely for the private benefit of its members or adherents . In reviewing activities over the year, the incumbent and PCC have taken account of the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit and of the more specific guidance for the advancement of religion ( Reg. 40 2.c.iii ). While Section (7) sets out a more general Review of the Year , Section (5) below focuses on the performance and achievements which most impact our delivered public benefit and make a tangible difference to our beneficiaries; conversely, the PCC is not aware of any activities that have caused detriment, harm or private benefit from their carrying out.

5. Performance & Achievements Review

Performance Review: the statistics in the table below are drawn from the required Diocesan return of attendance, and show good recovery in all the key indicators from the vacancy and COVID years. The additional numbers for those participating in services via Zoom streaming ( following the chart below ) show that peak Zoom is well over, but continues to be of value for those at home.

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Attendances:
Christmas Services 882 792 883 313 153 1282 1265 1338 594 1210
Easter Services 392 264 229 227 400 414 416 309 332
Average Week (Oct) 184 149 154 178 84 257 272 264 254 204
Usual Sunday 150 116 109 200 200 210 210 190
Worshipping
Community		 150 150 220 220 225 230 240 235 225 215
Age 0-17 35 30 25 25 25 25 35 65
Age18-69 35
50
85
87
91
90
85		 70
Age 70+
80
70
110
108
109
115
120
100
Joiners 15 7 0 6 1 14 33 32
Leavers 27 10 11 12 6 8 5 8
Usual Sunday (Adults) 140 109 102 180 175 180 170 165
Usual Sunday
(Children)		 10 7 7 20 25 30 40 25
Electoral Roll 264 255 255 255 255 248 343 339 279 273
Weddings 5 7 14 5 4 12 10 15 9 18
Baptisms 15 21 22 26 8 22 31 35 43 40
Confirmation
Candidates		 5 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 3 0
Funerals 16 20 31 33 35 28 29 43 26 30

Over 2024, in parallel to physical attendance, 133 services were live streamed from church. This facilitated nearly 1,000 virtual attendances over the year (down from 1,400 in 2023, and half those of 2022), an average of 7 virtual attendees at each (down from 11 in 2023 and half those of 2022). Looking at 09.45 Sunday services shows that the 49 Sunday services available via Zoom each reached an average of 15 virtual participants (down from 20 in 2023, and 26 in 2022), but again concealed a further decline from the 20 every Sunday at the start of the year to 10-15 by the year end (last year 30 every Sunday at the start of the year to 15-20 by year end).

Public Benefit:

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

ii. Charitable Giving

The 70 beautifully decorated and illuminated Christmas trees, representing local businesses, clubs and community groups, along with a full programme of live music, made for a memorable weekend. The festival café, chocolate tombola, children’s craft activities, a lively concert by the Rock Choir and a packed Sunday evening service around the trees, all added to the enjoyment.

With huge thanks to the Planning Group and all the volunteers who contributed so much to the success of the weekend. A special thanks to Paul Goldfinch who has been involved with the festival since its inception, and has now stepped down as Chair of the committee.

6. Structure, Governance & Management

i. Membership of the PCC during the year 2024

The full PCC between 1[st] January and 31[st] December 2024 was as follows:

Clergy: Lay members of the PCC *:
Revd Daniel Valentine Kate Berry (2027)
Revd Stephen Caple (Co-opted) Jonathan Berry (2027)
Licensed Reader: David Thunder (2027)
Vicky Peattie (retired June 2024) Hilary Turner-King (2027)
Clive Simmonds Roger Edmonston (2026)
Churchwardens: Paul Johnson (retired November 2024)
Jane Coan Carolyn Ponder (2026)
Brian Cutler_(Lay Vice Chairman of the PCC)_ Dick Whidborne (2026)
Deanery Synod Representatives *: Jacqui Allcock (2025)
Jill Brotherton (2026) Terry Bevan (2025)
Rod Montague (2026) Janice Brinley Codd (2025)
Mary Pape (2026) Margaret Somers (2025)
Isobel Simmonds (2026) Vacancy(2026)
Vacancy(2026)

*** elected until the APCM of the year in brackets**

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

ii. Officers of the PCC 2024

The PCC is required by its constitution to appoint a Standing Committee with the power to transact business between PCC meetings, subject to any directions given it by the PCC. Comprising the Incumbent, Churchwardens and at least two others, the Standing Committee and other PCC Statutory Officers were appointed at the short PCC meeting immediately following the May 2024 APCM:

Standing Committee : Revd Daniel Valentine, Jane Coan, Brian Cutler, Isobel Simmonds, David Thunder

PCC Officers: David Thunder ( Honorary PCC Secretary ), Isobel Simmonds ( Honorary PCC Treasurer ), Rod Montague ( Parish Safeguarding Coordinator ), David Thunder ( Electoral Roll Officer )

The PCC met four times during 2024, and in addition two further days were devoted to an Away Day and follow up, revising and taking forward Mission Action Planning. Only one e-motion was carried using Rule M29.

iii. Committees of the PCC

The PCC is supported by and considers reports and recommendations from its committees whose roles are described below. The committees may only transact business set out in their individual terms of reference from the PCC and as contained in a PCC Handbook.

In addition to the Standing Committee , there were over 2024:

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is responsible for advising the PCC on all matters relating to its financial responsibilities, for ensuring that proper financial procedures and controls exist, and for maintaining and producing accounts in accordance with the prescribed regulations. The Committee is responsible for the routine management of the financial affairs of the PCC.

Pastoral Committee

The Pastoral Committee is responsible to the PCC for focusing on both the community of the Church and all who come into contact with it. Its role is to develop and maintain ways of welcoming, encouraging, nurturing and caring for people so that the parish can fulfil both its pastoral mission and public benefit.

Outreach Committee

The PCC’s Outreach Committee is responsible for preparing and submitting for PCC approval recommendations regarding the allocation of funds to missions and charities, for maintaining links with those recipients, and for keeping the congregation informed of its activities.

The Roof Group

The role of the Roof Group is to deliver the conservation of the church roof and other outstanding major fabric projects in association with the wardens and PCC; to deliver related specific funding initiatives (e.g., National Lottery Heritage Fund) in support of these objectives; and to deliver the required associated public benefit, community engagement, and heritage development objectives.

The Old School Board

The Old School Board is responsible to the PCC for the routine operation and management of the PCC’s property adjacent to the Church, within the remit to provide the means to assist the outreach of the church to the local community, through the activities within the Old School.

The Friends of Holy Trinity

A PCC subsidiary organisation, conceived to assist in raising funds for the upkeep of the fabric of the Church, whose accounts are incorporated within those of the PCC. To maximize its effectiveness, the Friends have their own Board, and operate within terms of reference set by the PCC.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

iv. Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School

During the year, Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School academised and joined the Hurst Education Trust (HET), a multi-academy trust set up in collaboration between the Diocese of Chichester and Hurstpierpoint College (HET Trustees include the Bishop of Horsham and the Archdeacon of Horsham).

The traditional relationship between the PCC and its recommendation of ‘Foundation Governors’ to the Diocesan Board of Education for them to appoint is ended by this change. Under the new Charter, members of the Local Governing Body are appointed by the HET Trustees and will normally serve a 4-year term of office, after which they choose to stand for re-election or re-appointment. The Headteacher of Holy Trinty School and the Vicar of Holy Trinity Church are not bound by a term of office, and, once appointed serve until such time that they chose to resign.

For background, the Local Governing Body of Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School now has fourteen members, comprising The Headteacher, The Vicar, two Parent members ( elected by the parents and carers of pupils at the school ), one Staff member ( elected by the staff ), three Co-opted members ( from the community, recommended by the LGB and based on their skills and experience ), and six Co-opted Foundation members, appointed by the HET Board based on recommendations from the Local Governing Body.

As a Church School, the Local Governing Body tries to ensure that there are sufficient governors with links to our church worshipping community or with a Christian focus, to ensure the Church school’s ethos and Christian distinctiveness are reflected in all aspects of school life. They otherwise share the same duties and responsibilities as the other members of the Local Governing Body.

On academisation, the existing ‘Foundation Governors’ were converted to Co-opted Foundation Members and appointed by the HET to continue to serve as follows ( dates of retirement or re-appointment in brackets ):

Revd Daniel Valentine ( Ex-Officio Foundation) Fiona Halsey (2024) Mark Andrews (2025) Rebecca Anderson (2026) Zoë Humphrey (2026) Norma Leppard (2028)

Charlotte Tayler attended one meeting in 2024 and will be replaced from 2025 by Toby Dawson.

v.

Parish Personnel

Revd Daniel Valentine is the Vicar of Cuckfield, and the parish has again additionally been served by retired priests with PTO, Revd Stephen Caple, Revd Dr Caroline Currer, and Revd Canon David Tickner, supported by Licensed Readers (Vicky Peattie, who retired June 2024, Clive Simmonds, and Kevin Carey who visits from Holy Trinity Hurstpierpoint). Jonathan Berry continued as a Lay Preacher and Charlotte Tayler as Children’s and Families’ Lay Minister (until completion of her contracted placement in May 2024). EmmaJane Adamson served as Parish Administrator until March 2024 when Gina Parker replaced her. David Curtis-Brignell, Ken Sagar and our Organ Scholar, Fearghus Beauchamp, together kept church music going until the arrival of our new Director of Music, Charles Humphries in September 2024, when Fearghus left for university. From June 2024 we had the services of Sam Lawrence as Verger. Andy Pring was Old School Manager until the end of the year, when he announced his retirement to pursue his writing career.

vi. Safeguarding

The PCC has complied with its duty under Section 5, The Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure (2016) to have regard to the House of Bishops’ Guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. The Safeguarding Coordinator makes a full report to the APCM and reports to every PCC meeting. The parish Safeguarding Policy (reviewed and approved annually) can be seen in the Church Porch and on the Church website; a further copy is lodged with the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer.

Everyone working with children or vulnerable adults through Holy Trinity has a current DBS Certificate. In addition to the three Clergy with PTO and our two Licensed Readers, along with the Children’s and Families

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Minister Charlotte Tayler (until May 2024, being replaced by Toby Dawson in 2025), and Jonathan Berry, Licensed Preacher, there are some 68 active DBS Certificates in place for current Volunteers (some having been checked through the Update Service); this includes all PCC and Old School Board members. The Diocesan Safeguarding training requirements of these personnel are regularly monitored and updated as need be.

The Parish committed itself to the Diocesan Simple Quality Protects (SQP) safeguarding programme on its launch and achieved Level 1 in April 2018. The Compliance Certificate issued by the Diocese is displayed in the Church and the Porch. Maintenance of the standards of the scheme are kept under regular review. The SQP scheme is now being replaced by the Parish Dashboard , a new online tool, use of which is currently being evaluated. The current Safeguarding Policies, Guides, associated documentation and contact information for third party assistance are posted on the church website. Hard copies of these papers are also available for inspection in a folder kept in the Church Office and another placed in the Church Vestry.

7. Review of the Year

Worship and the Church Year

In March, the PCC welcomed the Vicar’s outline of a refreshed pattern of Sunday worship which was introduced after Easter: the first, third, and fourth Sundays of each month continued as the 'Parish Eucharist', while the fifth Sunday became a 'Choral Eucharist', to highlight our musical talents. Opportunity was taken to make the second Sunday of the month a 'Worship for All', offering a more contemporary service of Holy Communion. Simultaneously, Sunday’s Cool relaunched on selected Sundays each month, allowing children to gather in the Old School during part of the service before returning for Communion. We also retained the monthly ‘Family Praise’, thus ensuring that everyone has multiple ways to engage with worship each month.

We held a joyful “Sing Gloria!” evening in church in March as an opportunity for anyone wanting to learn and practise the service music introduced after Easter, along with a few other communion settings, led by the choir and interim Director of Music, David Curtis-Brignell.

The weekly service pattern continued as normal: Wednesday 10:30 am Holy Communion (followed by Coffee and Cake), Thursday 9:00 am Celtic Communion, and Friday 11:00 am BCP Communion and together they continued to provide spiritual nourishment for all who attended. The online Prayer Group enabled our practice of sharing lists of those in need, inviting any updates on individuals we uphold in prayer. This open, shared concern for one another remains a vital aspect of our parish’s ministry.

The appeal in March to fund a Home Communion Set, ensuring we could bring Holy Communion to those unable to attend church in person, closed a few weeks later, having raised enough for the purchase, an example of the parish’s generosity. Blessed early in 2025, the communion set is now in regular use.

Following the Lent courses across the Benefice, on Saturday 16th March many turned out for the annual Church Spring Clean, so the building looked pristine in time for the Easter season. A Garden of Repose replicating the Garden of Gethsemane was created in the Lady Chapel for Maundy Thursday, and resulted from the collecting of portable pot plants of all sorts with which to form a beautiful, prayerful space. We entered Holy Week with a moving Palm Sunday service, followed at 6.00 pm that evening by “The Way of the Cross”, a reflective journey through the Passion in music and readings. From Monday through Wednesday of Holy Week each night at 9.00 pm we gathered in quiet, candlelit prayer, marking the close of day by turning our hearts toward repentance and preparing for the profound solemnities to come. On Maundy Thursday, we commemorated Christ’s Institution of the Eucharist at the Service of the Last Supper, following which many kept silent night vigil until midnight in the Garden of Repose in the Lady Chapel. Good Friday began at noon with reflections on Jesus’ final words from the cross, accompanied by Haydn’s Seven Last Words on piano, and a thought-provoking sermon by Kevin Carey, while children engaged in creative crafts at the Old School. At 2.00 pm the Good Friday Liturgy presented a solemn account of Christ’s Passion, emphasising the depth of His love and sacrifice. Simultaneously, a Family Praise service offered an all-age reflection, completed by the hot cross buns shared afterward.

Holy Saturday’s Easter Vigil started at eight in the evening, around a brazier in the churchyard. We then moved indoors for a shortened vigil, rehearsing salvation’s story and renewing our baptismal vows. Come Easter Sunday, we began quietly at 8.00 am with Holy Communion. Later, at 9.45 am, we joyfully proclaimed the Risen Christ in the First Eucharist of Easter, singing hymns of victory, sharing cake and fizz in the festive celebration.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Ascension Day was marked with a sung Eucharist at 8.00 pm before preparing for Pentecost Sunday with red vestments and a parish photograph. On Trinity Sunday, our Patronal Festival, after a celebratory morning Eucharist, we held our APCM (Annual Parochial Church Meeting) at 11:30 am and rounded off the day with a festal Evensong, complete with special choir music.

The Faithful Departed were commemorated on 3rd November with an evening service of music and readings, featuring our choir alongside guest singers and instrumentalists, under the direction of our new Director of Music, Charles Humphries. This solemn but hope-filled act of remembrance drew a large congregation, grateful for the chance to honour loved ones who have passed on.

Remembrance Sunday saw the parish gathered at 10.45 am by the War Memorial for the act of remembrance, including a two-minute silence at 11.00 am and a Church Parade Service, followed by refreshments in the hall. The solemnity concluded with “For the Fallen”, an evening of music, poetry, readings, and prayers for peace, led by our parish choir.

The Advent Carol Service provided an opportunity for a candlelit service, with fine contributions from the augmented choir. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, also candlelit, again saw the choir excel in leading carols, and a spirit of joyful anticipation pervaded.

Christmas Eve’s two Crib Services (2.30 pm and 4.00 pm) filled the church with families: children dressed as angels, shepherds, and wise men, hearing again the story of Jesus’ birth. Then at 11.15 pm Midnight Mass celebrated the welcome to Christmas Day with solemnity and wonder. Christmas Day morning proclaimed “Joy to the World” at the All Age Christmas Worship.

Music Mission

Music plays a key role in Holy Trinity’s life. In March, we were treated to a Friends Concert highlighting musical talent within our community, which helped raise funds for the upkeep of the building. The Cuckfield Music Festival in June brought recitals to Holy Trinity (organ, guitar, jazz vocals, etc.). The choir has gone from strength to strength, with the welcome addition of the Junior Choir at some services. The ‘free’ monthly Friday concert series again helped raise funds for our church’s music mission.

Engaging with our Community

After a successful reopening on 13th April, the Cuckfield Local Monthly Market has quickly become a highlight of our parish calendar, running on the second Saturday of each month in Holy Trinity. Bringing together local artisans, producers, and visitors, the market offers an array of sustainable goods and homemade treats, fostering a sense of community spirit and environmental stewardship. Volunteers from the church have played a vital role in serving refreshments and hosting, ensuring each event remains both welcoming and worthwhile. This market continues to draw people from near and far, strengthening ties within our church family and beyond. We also had smaller events like quiz nights, fish and chip suppers, and Friends concerts, continuing to raise funds for various outreach projects

The Christmas Tree Festival (6th-8th December), one of the community’s favourite events, over three days, again filled the church with glittering, decorated trees, music, and visitors from the entire community. The Rock Choir performed once again on the Saturday evening.

Children & Families

Throughout June and July, six children completed a short course to be admitted to Communion, culminating in a Sunday celebration during the 9.45 am service, while the Deanery Confirmation at St Giles, Horsted Keynes, saw five candidates confirmed by the Bishop.

We held our Family Praise Pet Blessing service outdoors, celebrating our animal companions and praying for all of God’s creatures. Refreshments afterward all helped to provide for owners and especially the children a real highlight.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Choir Club and Choir Practice on Friday evenings have maintained the standard of our worship music and offered improved opportunities for young talents. Children’s ministry continued steadily with church trails, film club, other seasonal events, and work in the schools.

Our primary school, Holy Trinity Cuckfield, academised in September when it joined the , Hurstpierpoint Trust. With governor appointments now made by on recommendation from various stakeholders, including the PCC, but without guaranteed numbers of ‘foundation governors’, beyond the needing to maintain the distinctively Christian ethos and majority, it now falls to the PCC and church community to actively engage in the school to ensure the church’s profile and a stream of appropriate governor appointments results.

Outreach

Ongoing gratitude goes to the volunteers who run the weekly food collection for families in need. Monthly visits to Goldbridge Nursing Home offer Holy Communion to the residents. Harvest Festival saw non-perishable items collected for Family Support Work. At the Toy Service in December Sunday, families brought new or gently used toys for children in need. The monthly Solos Lunches continued to provide companionship for the lonely. These tangible expressions of Christ’s love are in addition to the charitable giving reviewed in more detail in the earlier section of this report.

Stewardship

We launched our annual Stewardship Week on 20th October, reflecting on how best to use our gifts of time, talent, and money. The week included a fellowship meal, volunteer fair, and prayerful reflection, and culminated in Stewardship Sunday (27th October), when many reviewed their giving and commitments to help our parish in the coming year.

Organising for Growth

During March, the Standing Committee began reviewing communication practices, and how best to organise for growth: ChurchSuite, a widely used integrated church management database for improving church administration and communication, had been on trial with the agreement of Standing Committee in both Cuckfield and Bolney. The PCC decided formally to adopt ChurchSuite, with the much appreciated help of Ian Walden; and, though changes will deliberately be gradual with its full benefits to be realised, it is now ensuring consistent, datacompliant storage, and immense help with rotas, service planning, and communication. At the same time, we have strengthened our social media presence and promotion.

At an Away Day in July at Worth Abbey, followed up in September and in work streams since, the PCC engaged with the challenges of growth and mission action. Resulting in five strands of initiative, these works streams have now developed to the point where in 2025 they shape the PCC’s agenda, help reduce silo working, increase collaboration and connection and avoid duplication. In summary the work streams are:

ENABLE - Support stream

Unites communications, financial management, and environmental stewardship to enable the church's mission: the team aims to amplify the church's presence, secure its financial stability, and provide the supporting processes, resources and technology to ensure the parish’s viability.

ENERGISE - Worship and welcome stream

Responsible for leading welcome and helping organise worship, to create an enriching, inclusive and welcoming atmosphere conducive to spiritual encounters.

ENCOURAGE - Wellbeing stream

Provides support, prayer, and practical assistance to individuals and families within the church community during times of need, such as illness, bereavement, or other life challenges.

EQUIP - Wholeness & discipleship team

Focuses on spiritual growth and Christian discipleship through small groups, courses, and mentoring to deepen faith and personal development, Christian basics and seasonal courses.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

ENGAGE - witness team

Engages with the local community through outreach events, service projects, and partnerships with local organisations, demonstrating God's love in practical ways and sharing the gospel message by local social action and global mission efforts.

Fabric

Work began during the year to narrow down approaches to the roof restoration and ceiling conservation: a commissioned environmental assessment showed that roof insulation if done very carefully could save money and might help prevent condensation to the benefit of the ceiling. A submission was made to the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) on the architect’s advice to seek some direct preliminary feedback to help shape the roof project: would the DAC support the delicate introduction of a layer of insulation to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint; given the scarcity of replacement Horsham stone, would the DAC support the regrading of the existing stone for the lower tiers of the roof and the replacement of the upper part of the roof with red clay tiles; and in principle, would they support those red clay tiles being photovoltaic, together with considering the sighting and battery storage to enable the resulting electricity storage.

DAC feedback was sufficiently encouraging for the appointment of a Quantity Surveyor to prepare a Stage 2 Report covering and costing these ideas to enable an outline case to be made in pre-faculty consultation with English Heritage, The Victorian Society, the Local Authority, and the DAC, to seek support and to identify opposition. This work is in hand.

Following heavy rains, the guttering and roof were inspected by our architect, Jonathan Cerowski, who advised improvements to the rainwater goods to enable excess water to flow away more easily, improving the flow into the downpipe in the corner between the vestry and the body of the church, which was duly carried out under List B consent.

The Quinquennial Inspection during the year delivered a generally encouraging report, while noting the continued ‘at risk heritage’ of the roof. The Reserves in the accounts of over £300,000 are designated primarily for this purpose. Additionally, a £50,000 donation gratefully received in the year from the Kempe Trust is also restricted for the restoration of the roof to help preserve the Kempe ceiling, and joins their donation of £10,000 (2023) for the creation of a Kempe digital display and interpretation resource.

The PCC is acutely aware of the generosity of these donations and the legacies received last year, together with the very significant legacy this year of £99,800 from the estate of the late Jill Rockey. As the year closed, the PCC were additionally delighted to hear of two further legacies the proceeds of which are expected in 2025.

Conclusion

We ended 2024 with hearts full of thanksgiving for the many gifts the parish has enjoyed: growth in our children’s and families’ ministry; the flourishing choir and musical life, under Charles Humphries and the start of a wider music mission; the support for one another through funerals, pastoral care, and prayer lists; the vibrant markets, fundraising events, and strong links to the community; and the deepening fellowship in home groups, Sunday’s Cool, and the many social activities that brought us closer together.

As Vicar of Holy Trinity, I extend my deepest thanks to everyone who contributed to the life and witness of this parish throughout the year: assistant priests, lay ministers, churchwardens, the PCC, musicians, volunteers, coffee makers, welcomers, cleaners, pastoral visitors, home group leaders, flower arrangers, bell ringers and countless more. Your faithfulness allows our community to shine as a beacon of hope, hospitality, and worship in Cuckfield. May God bless us all as we step into a new year, trusting in His grace to guide us onward.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

8. Financial Review

Introduction

The preparation of this year’s accounts has been done with the guidance of our Independent Examiner. We have built on the changes introduced last year, and continue to ensure that we are working to the latest advice on standards and good practice.

Incoming and outgoing resources

Total income for the year is £382,108, compared to £591,115 for 2023. This includes all the funds over which the PCC has control, unrestricted, designated and restricted.

The main activity of the church is covered by the unrestricted fund, and the income for this fund was £268,027 (2023: £243,512) , which encouragingly was both above our budget and the income for last year due mainly to a significant legacy received during 2024. Our main source of income is regular giving, and we have been encouraged during 2024 that this has continued to remain broadly consistent with the prior year.

In 2024, we received £1,000 of grants (2023: £500) which came from the Listed Places of Worship.

Total expenditure for the year is £286,465 compared to £251,496 for 2023. This includes all the funds over which the PCC has control, unrestricted, designated and restricted. Expenditures in 2024 were higher than 2023 mainly due to the cost of refurbishing the Old School toilet facilities, together with general inflationary pressures.

The main operating expenditures of the church are covered by the unrestricted fund and expenditure for this fund was £210,225 (2023: £190,306) . Spend was higher than last year due to continued inflation, but broadly consistent with budget given the expected contribution from the unrestricted fund towards the Old School toilet facility refurbishment. Whilst the PCC has worked hard to control costs, we continue to see rising costs in most areas, especially with respect to utilities.

Further details of the breakdown of this year’s income and expenditure are provided in the notes to the accounts.

Related Parties

There were no payments to PCC members, persons closely connected to them, or to the related parties allowed under the Charities Act 2011. The PCC supports the clergy by paying £5,310 (2023: £1,280) , which includes Council Tax and water rates, for the Vicarage, plus other annual costs towards travel, hospitality, telephone, postage and broadband.

Parish Share

The Diocesan Parish Contribution is the allocation set by our Deanery as this parish’s contribution to the wider church’s activities and costs of the Diocese and is accounted for on an annual basis. While any parish contribution unpaid on 31[st] December in a given year would be an operational (though not legal) liability, Holy Trinity Cuckfield paid its parish contribution for 2024 in full.

Staff costs

The PCC pays for the Parish Administrator, Church Accountant, the Children’s and Families’ Lay Minister and contributes to The Old School’s staff costs through its overall contribution to the running of that building. Further details are provided in the notes to the accounts.

Page | 11

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Reserves Policy

It is PCC policy to seek to maintain a balance on unrestricted funds of approximately three months’ worth of unrestricted general fund payments as a contingency against unforeseen situations (approximately £55,000 in 2024).

The PCC is also mindful of major continuing expenditures in relation to the roof following the 2019 Church Architect’s Quinquennial Inspection of the building, and has accordingly decided to hold an additional approximately £100,000 in reserves.

The total of the funds at the discretion of the PCC to utilise at the year-end was £500,288 including an amount of £33,953 designated for use for the management and operation of the Old School Property; and an amount of £311,779 designated for fabric improvements, primarily for relaying the Horsham Stone Roof, the objectives and timing of which continue under close review and development by the PCC. The remaining amount £154,556 (£500,288 less £33,953 less £311,779) broadly meets the Reserves Policy

The PCC have also committed to allocate any further funds required in the future for these long-term fabric improvement projects.

It is PCC policy to invest funds balances with the CBF Church of England Investment Fund, the CBF Church of England Fixed Interest Securities Fund and the CBF Church of England Deposit Fund.

9. The Old School Board

Income for 2024 year was £54,524 (including a contribution of £10,000 (2023: £9,500) from the General Fund), up slightly compared to £51,516 in 2023. The Old School saw a number of changes to the level of activity by regular users, due to changing circumstances. Janet Beales, a long-time supporter and board member of the Old School, retired at the end of July 2024 and The Next Steps Nursery sadly closed. A replacement user for the Victorian Hall has been identified, and they are due to start after Easter 2025. A number of new users were welcomed, including Sussex Caterers, who are a seasonal user of the Old School Kitchen and a long term renter of storage space, following the clearing of a great deal of Nursery Equipment from the Old School. The appointment of the new Music Director has resulted in the provision of additional office space in the Parish Hub and changes to use of the Committee Room.

Expenditures for 2024 were £66,701 compared to £50,980 in 2023. The most important activity this year was the refurbishment of the West End toilet facilities. The Board used the £2,500 bequest from the late Guy Berkeley as requested, and The Old School and the General Fund contributed 50 % each (£17,941).

Due to problems with the gutter between the Old School and adjacent properties, water had caused damp in the kitchen and problems with the electrics. The Board agreed to get this roofing work done over the summer especially as the Toilet Project costs were significantly lower than planned. In view of the work done on the West End Toilets and the higher energy costs, the Old School Board has increased its hire fees by 7% from the beginning of 2025.

A transfer of £10,000 was made during the year from the General Fund to the Old School Designated Fund as a contribution towards the running and maintenance costs of The Old School.

A net surplus of £5,658 was recorded for the year excluding the Strategic Refurbishment costs of £17,941 which came from Old School reserves. The total funds carried forward were £33,953.

Page | 12

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

10. The Friends of Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield

The Friends exists to raise funds for the church building and its principal artefacts by engaging with all in the Cuckfield community. Its funds arise from subscriptions, donations (including legacies) and event activities.

2024 was a difficult year for the Friends, as all but one of the committee members were new. The number of members remained stable, with a few additions and some losses due to the sad passing or infirmity of members, and those moving away.

As at 31.12.23
Additions
Losses
As at 31.12.24
LifeMembers
106
3
0
109
Annual Members
232
2
4
230
Total
338
5
4
339
~~—————~~		 As at 31.12.23
Additions
Losses
As at 31.12.24
LifeMembers
106
3
0
109
Annual Members
232
2
4
230
Total
338
5
4
339
~~—————~~		 As at 31.12.23
Additions
Losses
As at 31.12.24
LifeMembers
106
3
0
109
Annual Members
232
2
4
230
Total
338
5
4
339
~~—————~~
Just four events were mounted for the Friends in 2024, back down to the level prior to the record number of
events in 2023, and the corresponding income was therefore reduced. The concert in March was very successful,
filling the Church; there were two events at Cuckfield Park, one in July and one in December; and the Christmas
Tree Festival Preview was a pleasant evening.

Accounting also for donations, legacies and Gift Aid, the net surplus/(deficit) in 2024 was £6,496 (2023: £16,212). Total reserves at the 31[st] December 2024 were £75,872 ( 2023: £69,381). The Friends membership is kept aware that the Friends’ primary ambition is to support the Church by contributing to its major conservation and restoration projects, particularly the Horsham stone roof. This is involving building reserves year-on-year. However, in 2024 the Friends did fund the purchase of a pair of Processional Candlesticks.

11. Approval

The Annual Report for the ended Year 31[st ] December 2024 was approved by the PCC and signed on its behalf by Revd Daniel Valentine ( Chair of the PCC ):

Date: 30[th] April 2025

Page | 13

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Statement of Financial Activities

Unrestricted
Fund		 Designated
Funds		 Restricted
Funds		 Endowed
Fund		 Total Funds
2024		 Total Funds
2023		 Notes
2
3
14
13
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other receipts		 £
242,807
4,053
14,711
6,456
-		 2,009
-
41,867
2,015
-		 £
56,411
-
11,779
-
-		 £
-
-
-
-
-		 £
301,227
4,053
68,357
8,471
-		 £
498,689
6,701
84,085
1,640
-
Total income 268,027 45,891 68,190 - 382,108 591,115
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Other expenditure		 2,212
208,013
-
-		 417
66,904
-
-		 3,389
5,530
-
-		 -
-
-
-		 -
6,018
280,447
-
-		 8,549
242,947
-
-
Total expenditure 210,225 67,321 8,919 - 286,465 251,496
Net gains (or losses) on investments
Net income or (net expenditure) 57,802 (21,430) 59,271 - 95,643 339,619
Transfers between funds
Other recognised gains/(losses):
Gains/(losses) on revaluation of fixed assets
Other gains/(losses)
Reconciliation of funds:		 (10,000) 10,000 - - - -
47,802
-
-		 (11,430)
-
-		 59,271
-
-		 -
-
-		 95,643
-
-		 339,619
-
-
Net movement in funds 47,802 (11,430) 59,271 - 95,643 339,619
Total funds brought forward 105,737 358,179 97,685 375,000 936,601 596,982
Total funds carried forward 153,539 346,749 156,956 375,000 1,032,244 936,601

Page | 14

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Balance Sheet

Balance Sheet
Total Funds
2024
~~cf~~		 Total Funds
2023
~~cf~~
Intangible assets
Tangible assets
Heritage assets
Endowed investments		 £
-
375,000
-
-
~~cf~~		 £
-
375,000
-
-
~~cf~~
Total fixed assets 375,000
~~a~~		 375,000
~~a~~
Stocks
Debtors
Investments
Cash at bank and in hand		 458
4,519
34,694
634,979
~~a~~		 -
4,954
44,001
534,073
~~a~~
Total current assets 674,650
~~ia~~
 583,028
~~ia~~
~~
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year (17,406)
~~		 ~~
Net current assets or (liabilities) 657,244

~~a~~		 561,370
~~
Total assets less current liabilities
Provisions for liabilities
Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year		 1,032,244
-
-
~~a~~		 936,370
-
-
~~a~~
Total net assets or (liabilities) 1,032,244
Cy		 936,370
Cy
The funds of the charity:
Endowment funds
Designated funds
Restricted income funds
Unrestricted funds		 375,000
346,749
156,956
153,539
Cy		 375,000
358,179
97,685
105,737
Cy
Total charity funds 1,032,244
~~a~~		 936,601
~~a~~

This Annual Financial Report, for the year ended 31st December 2024, including the notes following, was Approved by the PCC and signed on its behalf by Revd Daniel Valentine (Chair of PCC)

Date 30th April 2024

Page | 15

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report

1 Accounting policies

a Basis of Preparation

The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS102. The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and the Church Accounting Regulations 2006, in accordance with applicable accounting standards and the current (2016) Statement Of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities, (SORP (FRS 102)). The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the inclusion of investments at market value and the revaluation of fixed assets. The financial statements 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 affiliation to another body, nor those which are informal gatherings of church members.

b Funds accounting

Funds held by the PCC are:

Unrestricted funds - general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes.

Designated funds - monies set aside by the PCC out of unrestricted funds for specific future purposes or projects. This reflects the accounts for the Old School.

Restricted funds - a) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest; b) donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaing unspent at the end of the year is carried forward as a balance on that fund.

Endowment funds - funds for which the capital must be maintained; only income arising from the investment of the endowment may be used, either as restricted or unrestricted funds, depending on the purpose set out in the terms of the original endowment.

c Income and endowments

All income and endowments, accounted for without deduction for any costs of receivability, are recognised when there is evidence of entitlement, receipt is probable, and the amount can be measured reliably.

Donations and legacies

Collections are recognised when received. Planned giving receivable is recognised when there is evidence of entitlement, receipt is probable, and the amount accords with the Gift Aid declaration or other record of intention to donate.

Gift aid recovered is recognised when the income to which it is attached is recognised. Grants and legacies are recognised when the formal offer in writing of the funding, is received by the PCC. Charitable activities

Sales of magazines are recognised when received. Rents from property are recognised in accordance with the rental agreements, when receipt is probable. Fees for weddings and funerals are accounted for on an event basis.

Other trading activities

Trading activities are where income is receivable in return for selling goods or providing services. Income from trading is recognised either: a - when received, or b - in the case of concerts: for the year in question, irrespective of date of receipt. Advance bookings are included in creditors until the concert has taken place. Investment income

Dividends are accounted for when due and payable. Interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue.

Page | 16

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

All other income

All other income is recognised in accordance with the above overall policy.

Gains and losses on investments

Realised gains are recognised when the investments are sold.

Unrealised gains and losses are accounted for on revaluation at 31 December.

d Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised when there is evidence of entitlement, payment is probable and the amount can be measured reliably.

Grants

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded where the award creates a binding obligation on the PCC.

Church Activities

The diocesan parish contribution is accounted for on an annual basis, reflecting the allocation set by our Deanery. Any parish contribution unpaid at 31 December is provided for in these accounts as an operational (though not a legal) liability and is shown as a creditor in the balance sheet.

e Fixed Assets

Tangible fixed assets

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

Other land and buildings held on behalf of the PCC for its own purpose is valued at market value. No depreciation is charged but any expenditure on maintenance or improvement is written-off as incurred.

The market value of The Old School was estimated in 1997 at £375,000 by Weber Brown Estate Agents. It is not considered to be economic to revalue the building, since the PCC has no plans for its disposal.

Depreciation

From 2011, expenditure on equipment used within the church premises and The Old School will be writtenoff as incurred.

No depreciation is provided on freehold property as it is the PCC's policy to maintain these assets in a continual state of sound repair. The useful economic life of these assets is so long and residual values so high that any depreciation would not be material. These assets will be subject to annual impairment reviews. Provision will be made if there has been any permanent diminution in value.

Investments

Investments are stated at market value at the balance sheet date.

f Current Assets

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rents or other income are shown as debtors less provision for amounts that may prove uncollectible.

Short-term deposits include cash held on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds, or at the bank.

Page | 17

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

2 Analysis of income and endowments

2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments		 2
Analysis of income and endowments
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds
Total Funds
Fund Funds Funds Fund 2024 2023 Notes
Planned giving
Planned giving (no tax refunds)
Loose cash collections
Gift Aid recovered
Other donations
Legacies		 £
105,808
2,552
5,966
27,271
1,213
99,997		 £
-
-
-
130
1,879
-		 £
-
1,249
25
387
53,750
-		 £
-
-
-
-
-
-		 £
105,808
3,801
5,991
27,788
56,842
99,997
£
111,227
15,289
4,683
28,444
10,480
328,066
Grants (see also note below)
Mid Sussex District Council Community Fu
Listed Places of Worship
-
-		 -
-		 -
1,000		 -
-		 -
1,000		 500
-
Donations and legacies 242,807 2,009 56,411 - 301,227 498,689
Fees for weddings and funerals 4,053 - - - 4,053 6,701
Charitable activities 4,053 - - - 4,053 6,701
Christmas tree festival
Other subscriptions
Coffee functions
Concerts and events
Venue hire		 12,664
-
184
-
1,863		 -
-
-
-
41,867		 -
3,973
-
7,806
-		 -
-
-
-
-		 12,664
3,973
184
7,806
43,730		 13,889
5,370
482
15,649
48,695
Other trading activities 14,711 41,867 11,779 - 68,357 84,085
Interest on cash deposits 6,456 2,015 - - 8,471 1,640
Investments 6,456 2,015 - - 8,471 1,640
Total income and endowments on all funds 268,027 45,891 68,190 - 382,108 591,115 13

The grants from the Listed Places of Worship Grant scheme was given as a contribution to the cost of stonework improvements. The grant from Mid Sussex District Council Community Fund was given as contribution to the church following the King's Coronation.

Page | 18

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
3 Analysis of expenditure on:
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Fund Funds Funds Fund 2024 2023 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Christmas tree festival costs 2,212 - - - 2,212 1,574
Music events and costs - 417 3,389 - 3,806 6,975
Cost of raising funds 2,212 417 3,389 - 6,018 8,549
Missionary and charitable giving 12,253 350 - - 12,603 17,258 4
- - -
Diocesan parish share 88,700 88,700 85,400
Staff 25,737 16,659 - - 42,396 52,204 5
- - -
Clergy and other people's expenses 5,311 5,311 3,066
Upkeep of services 7,745 502 1,000 - 9,247 9,029
Youth and children's work 653 - - - 653 2,891
Honorariums 11,680 - - - 11,680 9,367
- -
Water, gas and electricity 9,996 15,553 25,549 20,329
-
Church maintenance and repair 29,860 29,656 4,394 63,910 25,017
Insurance 4,250 2,833 - - 7,083 7,035
Printing, photocopying and other office costs 8,591 1,244 136 - 9,971 7,865
Accounting software and examiner fees 1,222 - - - 1,222 1,296 7
Advertising 2,015 107 - - 2,122 2,190
Cost of charitable activities 208,013 66,904 5,530 - 280,447 242,947
Total expended on all funds 210,225 67,321 8,919 - 286,465 251,496 12
----- End of picture text -----

Page | 19

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

4 Missionary and charitable giving

4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving 4 Missionary and charitablegiving
Unrestricted
Fund		 Designated
Funds		 Restricted
Funds		 Endowed
Fund		 Total Funds
2024		 Total Funds
2023		 Notes
Overseas:
Samara's Aid
Mary's Meals
Tariro
Domestic:
Crawley Open House
Refugees Welcome Crawley
FSW
HOPE
Stroke Association
Warm Welcome
Holy Trinity CofE School, Cuckfield
Other (all under £250)		 £
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
4,553
-
-
-
200		 -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
350		 £
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 £
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 £
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
4,553
-
-
-
550		 £
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
-
6,125
2,133
1,500
-
12,253 350 - - 12,603 17,258
5 Staff costs 5 Staff costs 5 Staff costs 5 Staff costs 5 Staff costs 5 Staff costs
Unrestricted
Fund		 Designated
Funds		 Restricted
Funds		 Endowed
Fund		 Total Funds
2024		 Total Funds
2023		 Notes
Remuneration
Wages and salaries
Social Security costs (NIC)		 £
25,737
-		 16,659
-		 £
-
-		 £
-
-		 £
42,396
-		 £
52,204
-
25,737 16,659 - - 42,396 52,204
In 2024, the General Fund includes the salaries of 7 members of staff_(2023: 3)and the Designated Fund includes 2 members of staff
(2023: 2)_.

6 Payments to PCC members and transactions with related charities

The PCC supported the clergy by paying £5,310 (2023: £1,280) which includes Council Tax and water rates for the Vicarage plus other annual costs towards travel, hospitality, telephone, postage and broadband.

7 Governance 7 Governance 7 Governance 7 Governance 7 Governance 7 Governance 7 Governance 7 Governance
Unrestricted
Funds		 Designated
Funds		 Restricted
Funds		 Endowed
Fund		 Total Funds
2024		 Total Funds
2023		 Notes
Independent examination £
1,104		 - £
-		 £
-		 £
1,104		 £
1,080
Software fees 118 - - - 118 216
1,222 - - - 1,222 1,296

Page | 20

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

8 Tangible fixed assets

**8 ** Tangible fixed assets
Freehold land Designated Restricted Endowed Total fixed
and buildings Funds Funds Fund assets Notes
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
Additions
Disposals
Revaluation		 £
375,000
-
-		 -
-
-		 £
-
-
-		 £
-
-
-		 £
375,000
-
-
-
At 31 December 2024 375,000 - - - 375,000
Charge for impairment
At 1 January 2024
Additions
Disposals
Revaluation		 -
-
-
-		 -
-
-
-		 -
-
-
-		 -
-
-
-		 -
-
-
-
At 31 December 2024 - - - - -
Net book amounts
At 31 December 2024		 375,000 - - - 375,000
At 31 December 2023 375,000 - - - 375,000

The Freehold Land and Building comprises the Old School building. The market value was estimated in 1997 at £375,000 by Weber Brown, Estate Agents. It is not considered to be economic to revalue the building, since the PCC has no plans for its disposal.

Page | 21

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

9 Analysis of net assets by fund

**9 ** Analysis of net assets by fund
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2024 2023 Notes
Fixed assets for church use
Current assets (except cash)		 £
-
3,438		 -
63		 £
-
1,476		 £
375,000
-		 £
375,000
4,977		 £
375,000
5,185
Cash at bank and on deposit 162,161 351,562 155,950 - 669,673 578,074
Current liabilities (12,060) (4,876) (470) - (17,406) (21,658)
153,539 346,749 156,956 375,000 1,032,244 936,601

10 Debtors

**10 ** Debtors
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2024 2023 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Gift Aid 1,838 63 1,019 - 2,920 3,414
Prepayments 1,595 - - - 1,595 1,485
Other Debtors 4 - - - 4 55
3,437 63 1,019 - 4,519 4,954
**11 ** Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
**11 ** Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2024 2023 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Mission Giving 7,786 - - - 7,786 9,469
Deferred Income 56 350 20 - 426 384
Governance Costs 1,104 - - - 1,104 1,080
Giving to Charities 268 - - - 268 7,778
Accruals 2,762 4,526 450 - 7,738 1,756
Other 84 - - - 84 1,191
12,060 4,876 470 - 17,406 21,658

Page | 22

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

Notes to the financial report (continued)

12 Statement of funds

Explanation of funds

Endowed funds are required by the donors to be invested and the income spent on specific objectives The endowed fund comprises the land and buildings.

Restricted funds are not invested permanently but are to be spent within reasonable timescales The Friends of Holy Trinity Fund holds funds raised by members of the Friends of Holy Trinity who hold fundraising events during the year.

The Music Fund holds funds donated to further the music ministry of the Church. The Warm Welcome Fund holds funds to support Syrian refugee families. The Aumbry Fund holds funds donated to purchase an Aumbry. The Roof Fund holds funds donated to repair and restore the Church fabric.

The Gifts Fund holds holds funds donated specifically for the repair and maintenance of small items.

Designated funds comprise the Old School Designated Fund which manages and operates the Old School property, the Fabric Repair and Improvement Fund, which is used for fabric improvements that are not covered by specific donations or restricted funds, and Farmers Market Designated Fund, which is used for income and expenses associated with the Farmers Market. Unrestricted funds comprise the General Fund.

Both the Designated and Unrestricted funds are not subject to any donor restrictions and can be spent as the PCC decides.

Summary of all funds

Fund income and expenditure and final balances are as follows:

Balances
b/fwd
1 Jan 2024		 Income Expenditure Transfers,
other gains
**and losses **		 Balances
c/fwd
31 Dec 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Land & Buildings 375,000 - - - 375,000
Total of allendowed funds 375,000 - - - 375,000
Friends of Holy Trinity Fund
Music Fund
Warm Welcome Fund
Aumbry Fund
Gifts Fund
Roof Fund		 69,381
2,577
179
59
-
25,489		 10,003
3,457
-
(59)
789
54,000		 (3,512)
(1,767)
-
-
-
(3,640)		 -
-
-
-
-
-		 75,872
4,267
179
-
789
75,849
Total of all restricted funds 97,685 68,190 (8,919) - 156,956
Old School Operating Fund
Fabric Repair and Improvement Fund
Farmers Market Designated Fund		 46,130
312,049
-		 44,524
-
1,367		 (66,701)
(270)
(350)		 10,000
-
-		 33,953
311,779
1,017
Total of all designated funds 358,179 45,891 (67,321) 10,000 346,749
General Fund 105,737 268,027 (210,225) (10,000) 153,539
Total of all Unrestricted Funds 105,737 268,027 (210,225) (10,000) 153,539
Total funds 936,601 382,108 (286,465) - 1,032,244
**13 ** Transfers between funds
A transfer of £10,000_(2023: £9,500)was made during the year from the General Fund to the Old School Designated Fund
as a contribution towards the running costs of The Old School. A transfer of £nil(2023: £53,000)_was made during 2023
from the General Fund to the Fabric Repair and Improvement Fund to set aside part of a recent legacy for future works and
improvements.

Page | 23

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2024

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF HOLY TRINITY CUCKFIELD [Registered Charity No.1131432]

I report on the accounts of Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield for the year ended 31[st] December 2023 which are set out on pages 11-21.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The church's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The church's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’) and that an independent examination is needed. Having satisfied myself that the church is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner's 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

In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which give me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

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

Signed by: ) f / L(pyiout Amy Beecroft FCA 19 Newton Road Lindfield West Sussex RHI6 2NB

Date: 4[th] April 2025

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