2025-12-31-accounts

A Blessing to Cuckfield

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 2025

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

Email: [e-mail] Tel: [phone]

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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 2025

Contents

	Page
Annual Report	2
Statement of Financial Activities	17
Balance Sheet	18
Notes to the Accounts	19
Independent Examiner’s Report	28

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
	CCLA
	Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street
	London EC4V 4ET
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

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Friends of HSBC Bank PLC Holy Trinity Bankers: 37-39 South Road, Haywards Heath West Sussex RH16 4LQ

Metro Bank One Southampton Row London WC1B 5HA

Correspondence: The PCC Secretary ([e-mail]) The Church Office The Old School Church Street, Cuckfield West Sussex RH17 5JZ

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 be ‘A Blessing to Cuckfield’ (AB2C) and so 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:

• i. Demonstrating an inclusive, welcoming and supportive approach to those, within and without the church, with whom we come in touch, or who come into touch with us;

• ii. By respect for freedom of thought, conscience and the religion of others.

• iii. Practical, spiritual support and care for people in the parish, from the youngest to the eldest, irrespective of level of need or ability to pay, respecting the values and objectives of being an inclusive church;

• iv. Financial support for these objectives;

• v. Where possible, financial and practical support for other charitable organisations with compatible objectives.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

3. Supporting Strategies

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.

4. Public Benefit Statement

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 figures below are drawn from the required Diocesan return Statistics for Mission and show good growth in all the key indicators

----- Start of picture text -----
2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015
Attendances:
Christmas Services 1122 882 792 883 313 153 1282 1265 1338 594 1210
Easter Services 267 392 264 229 227 400 414 416 309 332
Average Week (Oct) 191 184 149 154 178 84 257 272 264 254 204
Usual Sunday 145 150 116 109 200 200 210 210 190
Worshipping 143 150 150 220 220 225 230 240 235 225 215
Community
Age 0-17 26 35 30 25 25 25 25 35 65
Age18-69 42 35 50 85 87 91 90 85 70
Age 70+ 75 80 70 110 108 109 115 120 100
Joiners 30 15 7 0 6 1 14 33 32
Leavers 8 27 10 11 12 6 8 5 8
Usual Sunday (Adults) 129 140 109 102 180 175 180 170 165
Usual Sunday 16 10 7 7 20 25 30 40 25
(Children)
Electoral Roll 163 264 255 255 255 255 248 343 339 279 273
Weddings 6 5 7 14 5 4 12 10 15 9 18
Baptisms 7 15 21 22 26 8 22 31 35 43 40
Confirmation 2 5 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 3 0
Candidates
Funerals 17 16 20 31 33 35 28 29 43 26 30
----- End of picture text -----

Over 2025, in parallel to physical attendance, 116 services were live streamed from church (down from 133, reflecting the decision for lack of demand to discontinue streaming the Wednesday Eucharist from Advent). This facilitated 822 virtual attendances over the year (down from 1,000 last year, 1,400 in 2023). 09.45 Sunday services reached an average of 10-12 virtual participants (down from 15 last year and 20 in 2023).

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Public Benefit Performance:

• i. Social Care by the church has again had significant public benefit impact:

• The monthly Lunch’n’Linger continued (provision of a two-course lunch for those whether from the church community or not), catered for by Warden Park Academy’s canteen and offering outreach opportunity for their students;

• The new monthly Bereavement Café is providing a needed service and being promoted via the Doctors’ surgeries and other social services points of contact;

• members of the parish have taken communion to the homebound;

• Practical acts of service have continued through initiatives such as the collection of household items for refugee families, and the homeless, and the weekly food collections for local families in need.

• ii.

Charitable Giving

• The Christmas Tree Festival The popular community event took place over the weekend of 5[th-] 7[th] December, attracting 100’s of visitors each day. This year we were delighted to partner with Sussex Cancer Fund, who work in partnership with the NHS to enhance the lives of cancer patients across Sussex. Their mission is to provide tangible support to patients facing challenging and often stressful times. Over £12,000 was raised, £5,300 of which was donated to our partner charity. Since our first Festival in 2003 this makes a total to partner charities of over £100,0200.

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, 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.

• Outreach Donations charitable donations from the PCC over the year amounted to £7,750, together with wider congregational support for a range of other charities over the year, whether by donations or gifts in kind (e.g., to Chichester Family Support Work, Crawley Open House, Tariro, Samara’s Aid, Refugees Welcome Crawley, Imara Uganda Education Fund, Royal British Legion, Stroke Association and Care in Haywards Heath).

• iii. Beneficial Use of Facilities: the church was again the principal venue for the Cuckfield Music Festival, hosted a day of Cuckfield BookFest events, and additionally, free monthly concerts contributed to the cultural amenities of the village.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

6. Structure, Governance & Management

i. Membership of the PCC during the year 2025

The full PCC between 1[st] January and 31[st] December 2025 was as follows:

Clergy: Lay members of the PCC *: Revd Daniel Valentine Carolyn Ponder (2026) Revd Stephen Caple ( Co-opted ) Dick Whidborne (2026) Licensed Reader: Vacancy (2026) Clive Simmonds Vacancy (2026) Jonathan Berry (2027) Churchwardens: David Thunder (2027) – Lay Vice Chair Jane Coan Hilary Turner-King (2027) Vacant Vacancy (2027) Deanery Synod Representatives *: Jacqui Allcock (2028) Rod Montague (2026) Brian Cutler (2028) Mary Pape (2026) Nick Jones (2028) – from September 2025 Isobel Simmonds (2026) Vacancy (2028) Vacancy (2026) Vacancy (2026)

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

ii. Officers of the PCC 2025

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 number of whom must be at least equal to the number of churchwardens), the Standing Committee and other PCC Statutory Officers were appointed at the short PCC meeting immediately following the May 2025 APCM:

Standing Committee : Revd Daniel Valentine, Jane Coan, Rod Montague, Isobel Simmonds, David Thunder

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

The PCC met five times during 2025. Three e-motions were carried under Rule M29.

iii. Committees of the PCC

Over the year, the PCC adopted organising the responsibilities of the PCC into five Workstreams, each coordinated by a Convenor, with existing committees reporting to the PCC under those Workstream headings for ease of structuring and theming the agenda. In addition to the Standing Committee , the five Streams are as follows (Convenors names in brackets):

• The Enable Workstream ( David Thunder ) strengthens the practical foundations of parish life, ensuring that both the church building and the Old School continue to serve the parish and community well, whether through physical, financial, human, technical, or system resources.

• The Energise Workstream ( Rod Montague ) helps lead and develop worship through music, drama, and visual arts, to create an enriching, inclusive and welcoming atmosphere conducive to spiritual encounters that are prayerful, reverent and welcoming.

• The Encourage Workstream ( Fr Stephen Caple ) fosters fellowship and belonging through pastoral care and outreach, including support, prayer, and practical assistance to individuals and families within the church community during times of need, illness, bereavement, or other life challenges.

• The Equip Workstream (Clive Simmonds) supports discipleship opportunities for learning, through small groups, courses, covering Christian basics and seasonal courses for Lent and Page | 5

Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Advent, and Confirmation and Marriage Preparation.

• The Engage Workstream ( Hilary Turner-King ) helps the parish to be outward looking, serving the community through hospitality, charitable initiatives and partnerships, supporting local social action and global mission efforts through fundraising, awareness-raising campaigns,

The formal Committees of the PCC were:

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee ( reporting to the PCC under the Enable agenda ) 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.

The Roof Group

The role of the Roof Group ( reporting to the PCC under the Enable agenda ) 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 ( reporting under to the PCC under the Enable agenda ) was responsible to the PCC for the routine operation and management of the PCC’s property adjacent to the Church, with a remit to assist the outreach of the church to the local community, through the activities within the Old School.

The activities of the former Pastoral Committee and Outreach Committee have effectively expanded to become the new Encourage and Engage Workstreams.

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.

iv. Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School

During 2024, 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).

As a Church School, the Local Governing Body tries to ensure that there are sufficient Co-opted Foundation governors (currently six) 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.

Members of the Local Governing Body are appointed by the HET Trustees and 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:

Revd Daniel Valentine ( Ex-Officio Foundation) Rebecca Anderson Mark Andrews Toby Dawson Fiona Halsey Zoë Humphrey Norma Leppard ( Co-Chair )

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

v. Parish Personnel

Revd Daniel Valentine is the Vicar of Cuckfield, and the parish has again additionally been served by retired priests with PTO, viz. , Revd Stephen Caple, Revd Caroline Currer, Revd Elaine Dando, Revd Stephen Dando, and Revd Canon David Tickner, supported by Licensed Readers (Clive Simmonds, and Kevin Carey who visits from Holy Trinity Hurstpierpoint). Jonathan Berry continued as a Lay Preacher and Toby Dawson as Church & Community Children’s and Families’ Lay Minister. Gina Parker is Parish Administrator, and David Curtis-Brignell Organist & Choir Master (replacing Charles Humphries from May 2025). Following the departure of Andy Pring, Clive Simmonds deputised as Old School Manager until the arrival of Mandi Lines in her role of Operations Manager (from September 2025), supported by Emily Gibson and Helen Loosley.

vi. Safeguarding

The PCC has complied with its duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure (2016) to have regard to the House of Bishops’ Guidance on safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. The Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) makes a full report to the APCM, reports to every PCC meeting and the Parish Safeguarding Policy (reviewed and approved annually) is on view in the Church Porch and in the foyer of The Old School.

Everyone working with children, young people or vulnerable adults has a current DBS Certificate. In addition to the three Clergy with PTO and our Licensed Reader, along with the Children and Families Minister (Toby Dawson) and Licensed Preacher (Jonathan Berry), there were 50 active DBS Certificates in place for current Volunteers as at 31[st] December 2025, including PCC and Old School Board members. Safeguarding training requirements of these personnel are regularly monitored and updated as needed.

As highlighted at the last APCM, the Diocesan ‘Simple Quality Protects’ scheme has now been replaced by the ‘Parish Dashboard’ (launched in May 2025). This is an online self-management system for the supervision of Safeguarding at Holy Trinity: it is administered by the PSO and accessible by the Vicar and all PCC members. Holy Trinity has now progressed to the top level (3) of the Dashboard.

The current Safeguarding Policies for Holy Trinity, guides, associated documentation, and contact information for third party assistance, are all posted on the Church website. Hard Copies of these papers are also available for inspection in a folder kept in the Church Office with another available in the Church Vestry.

7. Review of the Year

A Year of Growth, Worship and Community: Holy Trinity in 2025

The past year has been a lively and encouraging one in the life of Holy Trinity. It has been marked by worship offered with care and beauty, growing opportunities for fellowship and discipleship, and an ever-deepening engagement with the wider community of Cuckfield and beyond.

Looking back across the year, one clear theme emerges: Holy Trinity continues to grow, not only in attendance, but in confidence, in faith, and in the breadth of people who now feel that this is their spiritual home. We are seeing encouraging signs of a church that is growing younger, growing deeper in discipleship, and growing outward in service. That growth is not simply numerical; it reflects people discovering faith, finding belonging in the life of the church, and becoming more confident in prayer, service and Christian witness.

All of this sits within the vision we have been working towards together: AB2C A Blessing to Cuckfield . This vision continues to guide the life of the parish and expresses our desire to be an inclusive church, rooted in worship and prayer, generous in welcome, intentional in forming disciples, and committed to serving the village and wider community.

Gratitude and Leadership

Before reflecting on the year’s activities, it is important to begin with gratitude and I want particularly to thank Brian Cutler, who retired at the APCM in May after many years as Churchwarden; and Jane Coan, whose commitment, energy and wise judgement have been invaluable throughout the year. The role of churchwarden

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

carries considerable responsibility, and both Brian and Jane have served the parish with remarkable dedication.

I am also deeply grateful to the other Parish Officers, staff team and PCC members, whose work sustains the life of the church. From finance and governance, to safeguarding, administration and buildings oversight, their commitment ensures that Holy Trinity is responsibly managed and able to flourish.

My thanks also go to our clergy colleagues and ministry team, whose faithful ministry of word and sacrament sustains the spiritual life of the parish. Ministry is always a shared endeavour, and it is a privilege to serve alongside colleagues who bring wisdom, prayerfulness and pastoral sensitivity to their work.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I want to thank the many volunteers who give their time and energy to the life of Holy Trinity. The church runs because of countless acts of quiet service offered week by week: welcomers, readers, servers, musicians, flower arrangers, sacristans, pastoral visitors, event organisers, and those who help maintain both the church building and the Old School. Their generosity forms the unseen foundation of parish life.

Together they embody the kind of church Holy Trinity aspires to be: a community in which everyone has a place and a part to play in the life of Christ’s body.

AB2C - A Blessing to Cuckfield

During the year the parish has continued to develop its shared vision through AB2C - A Blessing to Cuckfield , structured around the five work streams of Enable, Energise, Encourage, Equip and Engage. These work streams have helped give clarity and direction to our shared work.

• a) Enable has strengthened the practical foundations of parish life, ensuring that the church building and the Old School can seamlessly serve the parish and community well. In addition to the Roof Group getting that project to RIBA Stage 2 proposals (discussed under Fabric below), engagement through our membership of the Major Churches Network and with the Diocesan fundraising advisors has vitalised the need to develop a wider, community based Vison2030 of ‘being church’ if we are to attract the kinds of serious development funds we need for the whole site, to fund the roof, develop the Kempe archive and the our future as a blessing to Cuckfield. The Stream also developed the process for and scope of Organ and Choral Scholarships, to be named in memory of Joyce Fowles; developed the restructuring of the Old School/Church interface; and scoped a project to renew the web and integrate parish social media and communications.

• b) Energise has encouraged worship that is prayerful, reverent and welcoming, enabling people to encounter God through liturgy and music: a complete review of the Welcome Ministry and its mechanics was enthusiastically taken on board by those concerned. Focus has been on the role of music within the services, to attract interest and to involve children and young people in services and other activity (e.g., Sunday’s Cool, Treble Choir, FUSE Youth); and the acolyte and lay assistants teams have been strengthened. Training for Welcoming and Safeguarding featured throughout the year. Three of the Stream are now taking the Bishop’s Certificate, with four members attending the upcoming Diocesan Vocations Day.

• c) Encourage has fostered fellowship and belonging through pastoral care and outreach, with the aim of tailored pastoral care and practical support for individual needs. Since March 2025, all individuals visiting on behalf of the church have been encouraged to participate in the Encourage Stream to foster a shared purpose, improve communication, and promote mutual support. New initiatives introduced in 2025 include 'Lunch ’n’ Linger,' a monthly fellowship event with gentle pastoral support launched in May 2025 alongside the Engage Stream. The Bereavement Café, a small-group ministry providing a safe space for those grieving, was inaugurated in November 2025, also in partnership with the Engage Stream. The structure and membership of the Pastoral Care Team were clarified in March 2025 to improve accessibility, with a Pastoral Care Coordinator designated as the primary contact. Additional features of pastoral support now include a Suggestion Box, the Vicar’s Surgery, and an annual commissioning of the Pastoral Care Team. It has been a year of good progress.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

• d) Equip has supported discipleship through study groups, courses and opportunities for learning: a Marriage Preparation course was held in March; two different Lent courses were run (Diocese of Chichester ‘I Believe’ and ‘Christ and the Chocolaterie’; confirmation candidates were prepared (adult and young people) with conformation two adults in June at St Wilfred’s Church. Additionally, following a ‘Pilgrim Course’ Taster Session in July, four flourishing groups have been established, inperson and on-line, daytime and evening and plans to run three courses per year to a two-year cycle are in place. A first ‘Turning to Christ’ Course ran in the Autumn 2025 with 32 participants.

• e) Engage has helped us reimagine outreach, serving the community through hospitality, charitable initiatives and partnerships. Local and global charitable partners have been supported (as identified above under Public Benefit), while engagement has been enhanced by the Arts and Crafts Group, meeting twice each month; the Ladies’ Group; the Cuckfield & Bolney Men’s Group; the making of poppies for the Remembrance display; and by the breakfast bap initiative at the Farmers’ market in support of Tariro. Practical acts of service have continued through initiatives such as the collection of household items for refugee families, and the weekly food collections for local families in need, reflecting the parish’s commitment to compassionate action.

Together these strands help ensure that our activities are not simply busy programmes, but fit together and support each other as expressions of our shared calling to be a blessing to the village of Cuckfield.

Worship at the Heart of Parish Life

Worship is at the heart of the life of Holy Trinity, and throughout the year the great festivals and seasons of the Christian calendar have been celebrated with devotion and care.

The year began with a Choral Holy Communion for the Feast of the Epiphany, celebrated according to the Book of Common Prayer and led by the choir, marking the visit of the Magi and the revelation of Christ to the nations.

The season of Lent offered many opportunities for reflection and growth. Alongside the Ash Wednesday Choral Eucharist with Imposition of Ashes, members of the congregation took part in Lent study groups exploring the Nicene Creed, as well as the imaginative Lent course Christ and the Chocolaterie . These gatherings provided space for thoughtful conversation about faith and discipleship.

During Holy Week, the church offered a rich and prayerful programme of worship. The creation of a Garden of Gethsemane in the Lady Chapel provided a quiet place for reflection during the week. Good Friday included both traditional devotions and a Messy Church event, allowing families and children to encounter the story of the cross in creative ways.

Easter Day was celebrated with great joy and energy, with a well-attended Parish Eucharist proclaiming the hope of the resurrection.

Later in the year our first Parish Eucharist reflecting on healing and wholeness offered opportunities for prayer ministry and anointing, reflecting the church’s ministry of prayer and pastoral care.

The year culminated in the celebrations of Advent and Christmas, which once again drew large congregations from the parish and the wider community. The Advent Carol Service marked the beginning of the season with beautiful readings and music. Services such as the Toy Service, the Nine Lessons and Carols, the Crib Services (complete with two Donkeys) on Christmas Eve, and the Midnight Mass filled the church with worshippers of all ages, culminating in the joyful Christmas Day Eucharist.

Music, the Choral Life of the Parish and the Arts

Music continues to be one of the great gifts of Holy Trinity. Our parish choir leads worship week by week with dedication and skill, sustaining the rich choral tradition that has long been part of the parish’s identity. Their ministry enables us to offer services of Choral Eucharist and Choral Evensong with beauty and dignity, enriching the worship of the parish. The scale of their programme of work is illustrated well by the following statistics: 43 choir practices; 37 choir club meetings and practices; 101 services and other choral events; 5 major festival services of readings, hymns and anthems, 3 involving the junior choir for the first time; at least 489 hymns, 72 psalms and canticles, 77 anthems; and 2 organ taster workshops (resulting in two ‘organists-in-training’); 2 choral services at Bolney; 7 lunchtime concerts; 18 adult and 13 junior choir members (6 new juniors joined in 2025); and 11 All worship services with HT Music group. The team as at 31[st] December is: Claire Thomas (junior choir)

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Evie Pinhey (Music Coordinator and Concerts Secretary) - both of whom joined during 2025 in ‘management’ roles which have significantly benefited our music programme; Michele Branscombe (Music Group); and David Curtis-Brignell MBE (Director of Music).

The church also hosted a wide range of musical events throughout the year. The Friday Lunchtime Concert series brought many talented performers to Holy Trinity, including organ recitals and chamber concerts featuring works by composers such as Beethoven, Saint-Saëns, Bach and Boëllmann.

We were delighted to welcome visiting ensembles including Coro Nuovo , whose atmospheric candlelit concert Handel by Candle filled the church with Baroque music, and other groups such as Patcham Silver Band and the New Sussex Singers , which brought enthusiastic audiences to the building. A particular highlight later in the year was the concert by Ensemble Reza , whose performance demonstrated the high calibre of musicians who continue to see Holy Trinity as an inspiring and welcoming venue for chamber music.

Holy Trinity also played its part in the wider cultural life of the village through events associated with the Cuckfield Music Festival, and hosted a day of Cuckfield BookFest events in October, further strengthening the church’s place as both a house of prayer and a centre of artistic life.

Schools, Fellowship and Community Life

Our relationship with our local schools is flourishing. Our partnership with Holy Trinity Primary School remains a central part of the life of the parish. The church continues to host school worship, seasonal services such as Harvest and Christmas, and opportunities for pupils to engage with the church building and the Christian story in creative ways. These regular encounters help ensure that the parish church remains a familiar and welcoming place for children and families in the village, and it is always a joy to see the church filled with pupils, staff and parents as we mark important moments in the school year together.

We have also been delighted to develop closer links with Warden Park Academy, particularly through the Lunch’n’Linger initiative. The lunches have been prepared by the school kitchens, with pupils helping with serving and hospitality, creating a wonderful intergenerational partnership between the parish and the school. This collaboration has enriched the experience for everyone involved: parishioners enjoy excellent food and warm service, while students gain experience of community engagement and hospitality. It is a simple but powerful example of how the church can build meaningful relationships with local institutions and continue to be woven into the fabric of village life.

Other groups continue to flourish. The Arts and Crafts Group, meeting twice each month, offers a relaxed space for creativity and companionship. The Ladies’ Group and the Cuckfield & Bolney Men’s Group have organised a variety of social gatherings throughout the year, strengthening friendships within the parish.

Events such as the Italian Evening and Quiz Night, the Harvest Supper, and the summer Hymns and Pimm’s evening have all contributed to the sense that Holy Trinity is a church community where people genuinely enjoy spending time together.

The Christmas Tree Festival once again proved to be one of the highlights of the parish year, drawing large numbers of visitors from across Cuckfield and the surrounding area into the church during the Advent season. The building was beautifully transformed with dozens of decorated trees created by local schools, community groups, charities and businesses, each bringing its own creativity and story.

Over the course of the weekend the church was filled with families, music, conversation and a wonderful sense of community spirit. The festival was made possible only through the dedication of a remarkable team of volunteers. We owe sincere thanks to all those who helped plan and organise the event, those who decorated trees, those who set up and cleared the church, the stewards who welcomed visitors, and the many people who baked cakes, served refreshments and ensured that everything ran smoothly throughout the weekend. Their generosity of time and energy reflects the best of parish life.

We are also delighted that the festival raised £5,300 for the Sussex Cancer Fund, demonstrating once again how the parish can bring people together in celebration while supporting important charitable causes. The Christmas Tree Festival remains a much-loved tradition and a wonderful expression of Holy Trinity’s calling to open its doors widely, celebrate the season of hope and light, and be a blessing to the whole community of Cuckfield

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Service, Remembrance and the Life of the Village

Holy Trinity continues to play an important role in the wider life of the village.

The Cuckfield Local Market, held monthly in the church and churchyard, has become an established and popular event supporting local producers and drawing many visitors into the church.

The parish also hosted several significant commemorative services. The VE Day 80th Anniversary service, held in partnership with the Royal British Legion, brought the community together for a service of thanksgiving and remembrance compete with wonderful community singing and Fish and Chips. Later in the year the parish marked VJ Day 80 with a deeply moving service reflecting on the end of the war in the Far East, featuring music by Britten and Purcell and concluding with Elgar’s Nimrod .

In November the church again served as the focal point for the village’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations, gathering civic representatives, schools, veterans and local organisations for a solemn act of remembrance.

The season of remembrance also included the All Souls’ Service, a quiet and reflective liturgy in which many people came to remember loved ones who had died. The service was accompanied by the beautiful music of Duruflé’s Requiem , offered by visiting musicians and singers from our choir and beyond, creating a deeply moving evening of prayer and reflection.

Practical acts of service have also continued through initiatives such as the collection of household items for refugee families, and the weekly food collections for local families in need, all reflecting the parish’s commitment to compassionate action.

Fabric

There were no significant repairs or other fabric work undertaken in 2025. However preparatory work continued for the relaying of the Horsham Stone roof. The possibility of installing roof insulation was considered, although not included in the final proposals because of limited benefit and significant potential risk to the fabric from condensation. The resulting RIBA Stage 2 proposal went out for advice from the local authority, the DAC, Historic England and other statutory consultees with helpful feedback. The current project now includes regauging the Horsham stone, replacing the top tiers with locally sourced clay tiles, installing solar panels on the south facing roof of the vestry, and replacing all external lighting with energy efficient alternatives. Our membership of and engagement with the Major Churches network and discussions with the Diocesan fund raising team make it clear that we need to develop a wider, more community-based development project to attract serious mission funding in addition to making the case for the roof repair, if we are to present a competitive bid in the currently tight heritage funding market.

The Reserves in the accounts of over £300,000 are designated primarily for this purpose, and include restricted donations from the former Kempe Trust of £50,000 for the restoration of the roof to help preserve the Kempe ceiling, and a further £10,000 for the creation of a Kempe digital display and interpretation resource. The PCC is acutely aware of the generosity of all donations, including the legacies of approximately £38,000 received this year of which £15,000 was from the estate of the late Joyce Fowles.

The PCC is aware that the altar frontals are in a poor state of repair: the fine Victorian frontal needs restoration, while the others are more likely in need of replacement. We continue to consider alternatives and to gain quotes, but do not yet have a fully costed proposal. Development work also continues where the need for additional choir stalls is concerned; and the Bellringers have come up with a proposal for a ringing simulator to help with training and practice, currently being assessed by the Archdeacon to decide the necessary permissions.

Looking Back with Gratitude

Taken together, the events of the past year reflect a parish that is active, generous and hopeful. Worship has been offered faithfully, music has flourished, friendships have grown, and the church has continued to serve the wider community of Cuckfield.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Holy Trinity aspires to be a church where worship is reverent and welcoming, where newcomers are received with warmth, where children and families belong, and where faith is lived out through prayer, generosity and service. Over the past year we have taken encouraging steps toward becoming that kind of church.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of the many people who give their time, talent and love to the life of this parish. I am deeply grateful to all who contribute to the ministry of Holy Trinity.

As we look ahead to the coming year, we do so with confidence and hope, trusting that God will continue to guide and bless the life of this parish as we seek to be A Blessing to Cuckfield.

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 £299,795, compared to £382,108 for 2024. 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 £237,419 (2024: £268,027) , which was above our budget but below the income for last year due mainly to a significant legacy received during 2024. Our main source of income is regular giving and this has remained broadly consistent with the prior year.

In 2025 we received £4,000 of grants (2024: £1,000) which came from the Mid Sussex District Council Community Fund and were given as a contribution towards the VE and VJ celebrations organised by the church.

Total expenditure for the year is £312,744 compared to £286,465 for 2024. This includes all the funds over which the PCC has control, unrestricted, designated and restricted.

The main operating expenditures of the church are covered by the unrestricted fund and expenditure for this fund was £234,291 (2024: £210,225) . Expenditures in 2025 were higher than 2024 mainly due to higher staff costs and clergy and other people’s expenses, higher Upkeep of Services and Music events costs, and Honorarium costs which include the fees paid to the Director of Music, together with higher utilities costs and general running expenses. The higher expenditure in 2025 versus 2024 was partially offset by much lower church maintenance and repair costs in 2025.

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 has a hall hire agreement with the Aspirations School of Dance, an organisation owned by an individual who became the PCC’s Operations Manager later in the year. The licence agreement was negotiated and approved by the PCC prior to her employment, following a business case and competitive process. The terms of the licence and her employment were set independently, and no trustee or employee benefited personally from the arrangement.

The PCC supports the clergy by paying £7,262 (2024: £5,310) , which includes Council Tax and water rates, for the Vicarage, plus other annual costs towards travel, hospitality, telephone, postage and broadband.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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 2025 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.

Serious (non-Safeguarding) Incident Report

On Friday 28[th] November 2025, the mandate department of HSBC contacted Isobel Simmonds - in her role both as a Trustee of Charity No 1131432 (the PCC) and as the Administrator of the PCCidentified HSBC account under the short name of ‘Friends of Holy Trinity Cuckfield’ – to let her know they had received a change of mandate request unauthorised by the PCC, the terms of which they could not discuss but were minded to question or reject.

At the same time, another current account, with Metro Bank, in the name of ‘The Friends of Holy Trinity Cuckfield’ opened in January 2024 was identified as having been opened for the transfer of £30,000 from the HSBC funds, without specific knowledge, approval or mandate from the PCC; without mentioning the PCC’s name or Charity No. under which the transferred restricted funds were raised; were not referred to in the PCC’s 2024 independently examined accounts by name; were not listed as a banker to the Friends in the 2024 Annual Report; and in respect of which the PCC did not now have a signatory.

As provided for in specific guidelines agreed between the Charity Commission and the Church of England (adopted by PCCs at Diocesan request in June 2022), the PCC is required to delegate investigation of Serious Non-Safeguarding Incidents where a loss of control of charitable assets may be involved to its Chair and Standing Committee, who are required to make report to the Charity Commission, then to the PCC and the Independent Examiner. Following advice from the Bishop, this process was accordingly followed.

The Charity Commission (and the Diocese) both note they cannot adjudicate legal disputes between charities or their associated bodies, it being for the trustees to resolve. The Independent Examiner, agreeing the referral to the Charity Commission was proportionate, has advised treating the Friends’ funds as held on the balance sheet rather than in income and expenditure whilst the dispute is resolved.

The PCC remains committed to resolving this governance issue and discussions are in hand to that end.

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 £49,000 in 2025).

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 £506,552 including an amount of £42,872 designated for use for the management and operation of the Old School Property; and an amount of

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

£314,279 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 £149,401 (£506,552 less £42,872 less £314,279) 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

A significant event in 2025 was the departure of Andy Pring in February, following which the PCC records its deep gratitude to Clive Simmonds who stepped in as temporary and voluntary acting Old School Manager, a task which extended through to September. The PCC envisioned replacing Andy’s role by integrating Church and Old School management, in support of Vision 2030, merging both sites into a seamless hub for the community, in support of the wider approach to the Heritage Lottery Fund (discussed under Fabric above).

The appointment of Mandi Lines as the new one-site Operations Manager in September and the completion on behalf of the PCC by the Enable Workstream of a revised organisation structure means The Old School Board was formally wound up from January 2026 as its responsibilities transitioned to the new structure.

The last significant action of the Old School Board was organising the 30[th] Anniversary of the Opening of the Old School, and on Remembrance Sunday there was an opportunity to see the refurbished Old School Wall Hanging, photos of the original building transformation in 1992, the official opening in 1995, and activities and facilities of the Old School over the years. A new time capsule containing a variety of objects from users and church members was buried in the Old School Garden on Sunday 14[th] December with a plaque placed to mark the occasion and the location.

A long-term 3-year licence was signed for the Victorian Hall with the Aspirations School of Dance in May 2025. Sussex Caterers continued as a seasonal user of the Old School kitchen and renter of storage space, and will end at the end of February 2026. The Old School also saw several changes to the level of activity by regular users and several new Consulting and Counselling users using the converted office space.

Old School income for 2025 year was £45,717 very slightly up from £44,524 in 2024. Expenditures for 2025 were down to £46,798 compared to £48,866 in 2024. The most important activities were the repair of the central heating pump system, replacement of the kitchen freezer and hot water dispenser, and two 2 manhole covers in the Car Park.

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 £8,919 was recorded for the year. The total funds carried forward were £42,872.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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.

2025 was a difficult year for the Friends, as issues regarding governance continued. Honorary & life membership numbers have been consistent, but the number of annual members is down by 20%.

	As at 31.12.24	Additions	Losses	As at 31.12.25
LifeMembers	109	2	3	108
Annual Members	230	2	50	182
Total	339	4	53	290

As there was only one event in 2025, income, expenditure and surplus, are fairly flat. The bar stock has been written off as it has been returned to the donors. In 2025, The Friends paid for some church tower rainwater goods maintenance.

Accounting for donations, legacies and Gift Aid, the net surplus in 2025 was £2,972 (2024: £6,491). Total reserves at 31[st] December 2025 were £78,844 ( 2024: £75,872). In line with the Independent Examiner’s recommendation, Gift Aid for 2026 will not be claimed until governance is resolved.

11. Approval

The Annual Report for the ended Year 31[st ] December 2025 was approved by the PCC and signed on its behalf by Revd Daniel Valentine ( Chair of the PCC ):

Date: 29[th] April 2026

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Holy Trinity Cuckfield

Registered Charity No. 1131432

Trustees’ Responsibilities Statement

The members of the Parochial Church Council (“the trustees” for the purposes of charity law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and with the requirements of the Charities SORP (FRS 102) and the Charities Acts 2011 and 2022 .

Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of its incoming resources and application of resources for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

• select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;

• observe the methods and principles set out in the Charities SORP (FRS 102) ;

• make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

• state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed; and

• prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to do so.

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose, with reasonable accuracy at any time, the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Acts 2011 , 2022, and the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations , and the provisions of the PCC’s constitution.

They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the PCC and for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The trustees are responsible for ensuring that the PCC complies with the requirements of the Church Representation Rules, health and safety regulations, safeguarding legislation and guidance, employment law, data protection legislation, and all other relevant statutory and regulatory obligations.

The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity’s financial information and governance records. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Statement of Disclosure to the Independent Examiner

As trustees, we have taken all the steps that we ought to have taken to make ourselves aware of any relevant matters affecting the charity for the purposes of the independent examination, and to ensure that the independent examiner is aware of any such matters. So far as we are aware, there is no relevant information of which the independent examiner has not been informed.

The Trustees of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Holy Trinity Cuckfield Registered Charity No. 1131432

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Holy Trinity Cuckfield Registered Charity No. 1131432

Statement of Financial Activities

	Unrestricted Fund	Designated Funds	Designated Funds	Restricted Funds	Restricted Funds	Endowed Fund	Total Funds 2025	Total Funds 2024	Notes 2 3 13 12
Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Other trading activities Investments Other receipts	£ 189,151 18,765 16,581 12,922 -	5,951 - 43,088 1,346 -			£ 1,622 - 9,257 1,112 -	£ - - - - -	£ 196,724 18,765 68,926 15,380 -	£ 301,227 4,053 68,357 8,471 -
Total income	237,419	50,385		11,991		-	299,795	382,108
Expenditure on: Raising funds Charitable activities Other trading activities Other expenditure	2,297 231,994 - -	377 46,872 - -		5,831 25,373 - -		- - - -	- 8,505 304,239 - -	6,018 280,447 - -
Total expenditure	234,291	47,249		31,204		-	312,744	286,465
Net gains (or losses) on investments
Net income or (net expenditure)	3,128	3,136		(19,213)		-	(12,949)	95,643
Transfers between funds Other recognised gains/(losses): Gains/(losses) on revaluation of fixed assets Other gains/(losses) Reconciliation of funds:	(10,000)	10,000		-		-	-	-
	(6,872) - -	13,136 - -		(19,213) - -		- - -	(12,949) - -	95,643 - -
Net movement in funds	(6,872)	13,136		(19,213)		-	(12,949)	95,643
Total funds brought forward	153,539	346,749		156,956		375,000	1,032,244	936,601
Total funds carried forward	146,667	359,885		137,743		375,000	1,019,295	1,032,244

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Holy Trinity Cuckfield Registered Charity No. 1131432

----- Start of picture text -----
Heritage assets - -
Endowed investments - -
Total fixed assets 375,000 375,000 8
Stocks - 458
Debtors 9,604 4,519 10
Investments 33,044 34,694
Cash at bank and in hand 622,403 634,979
Total current assets 665,051 674,650
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year (20,756) (17,406) 11
Net current assets or (liabilities) 644,295 657,244
Total assets less current liabilities 1,019,295 1,032,244
Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year - -
Provisions for liabilities - -
Total net assets or (liabilities) 1,019,295 1,032,244 9
The funds of the charity:
Endowment funds 375,000 375,000
Designated funds 359,885 346,749
Restricted income funds 137,743 156,956
Unrestricted funds 146,667 153,539
Total charity funds 1,019,295 1,032,244 12
----- End of picture text -----

This Annual Financial Report, for the year ended 31st December 2025, including the notes following, was Approved by the PCC and signed on its behalf by Revd Daniel Valentine (Chair)

Date 29th April 2026

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the financial report (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
2 Analysis of income and endowments
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Fund Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £ £
- - -
Planned giving 100,431 100,431 105,808
- -
Planned giving (no tax refunds) 6,449 1,475 7,924 3,801
Loose cash collections 10,046 - - - 10,046 5,991
Gift Aid recovered 26,331 711 147 - 27,189 27,788
Other donations 3,502 5,240 - - 8,742 56,842
- - -
Legacies 38,392 38,392 99,997
Grants (see also note below)
- - - -
Mid Sussex District Council Community Fu 4,000 4,000
Listed Places of Worship - - - - - 1,000
Donations and legacies 189,151 5,951 1,622 - 196,724 301,227
- - -
Fees for weddings and funerals 18,765 18,765 4,053
Charitable activities 18,765 - - - 18,765 4,053
Christmas tree festival 12,352 - - - 12,352 12,664
- - -
Other subscriptions 3,813 3,813 3,973
Coffee functions 274 - - - 274 184
Concerts and events 231 - 5,444 - 5,675 7,806
Venue hire 3,724 43,088 - - 46,812 43,730
Other trading activities 16,581 43,088 9,257 - 68,926 68,357
-
Interest on cash deposits 12,922 1,346 1,112 15,380 8,471
Investments 12,922 1,346 1,112 - 15,380 8,471
Total income and endowments on all funds 237,419 50,385 11,991 - 299,795 382,108 13
----- End of picture text -----

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 VE Day and VJ Day celebrations (2024: King's Coronation) .

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the financial report (continued)

3 Analysis of expenditure on:

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Fund Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Christmas tree festival costs 987 - - - 987 2,212
Music events and costs 1,310 377 5,831 - 7,518 3,806
Cost of raising funds 2,297 377 5,831 - 8,505 6,018
Missionary and charitable giving 12,800 250 - - 13,050 12,603 4
- - -
Diocesan parish share 85,000 85,000 88,700
Staff 48,326 14,885 - - 63,211 42,396 5
- - -
Clergy and other people's expenses 18,289 18,289 5,311
Upkeep of services 14,744 414 1,732 - 16,890 9,247
Youth and children's work 1,043 - - - 1,043 653
Honorariums 14,555 - - - 14,555 11,680
- -
Water, gas and electricity 12,615 19,140 31,755 25,549
-
Church maintenance and repair 6,076 8,270 23,159 37,505 63,910
Insurance 4,358 2,897 - - 7,255 7,083
Printing, photocopying and other office costs 9,572 1,016 482 - 11,070 9,971
Accounting software and examiner fees 1,291 - - - 1,291 1,222 7
- - -
Advertising 3,325 3,325 2,122
Cost of charitable activities 231,994 46,872 25,373 - 304,239 280,447
Total expended on all funds 234,291 47,249 31,204 - 312,744 286,465 12
----- End of picture text -----

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the financial report (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
4 Missionary and charitable giving
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Fund Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Overseas:
Samara's Aid 1,250 50 - - 1,300 1,250
Mary's Meals - - - - - 1,250
Tariro 1,250 - - - 1,250 1,250
- - - -
Imara Uganda Mission 1,250 1,250
Domestic:
- - -
Crawley Open House 1,250 1,250 1,250
- - -
Refugees Welcome Crawley 1,250 1,250 1,250
FSW 1,250 - - - 1,250 1,250
HOPE - - - - 4,553
Sussex Cancer Fund 5,300 - - - 5,300 -
Other (all under £250) - 200 - - 200 550
12,800 250 - - 13,050 12,603
5 Staff costs
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Fund Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Remuneration
- -
Wages and salaries 48,326 14,885 63,211 42,396
- - - - - -
Social Security costs (NIC)
48,326 14,885 - - 63,211 42,396
In 2025, the General Fund includes the salaries of 5 members of staff (2024: 7) and the Designated Fund includes 3 members of staff
(2024: 2) .
During the year the PCC approved an ex-Gratia redundancy payment to a member of staff. The payment was authorised in accordance
with the Charities Act 2011. The total cost of redundancy and termination payments is included within staff costs.
----- End of picture text -----

6 Payments to PCC members and transactions with related charities

The PCC supported the clergy by paying £7,262 (2024: £5,310) which includes Council Tax and water rates for the Vicarage plus other annual costs towards travel, hospitality, telephone, postage and broadband.

----- Start of picture text -----
7 Governance
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Independent examination 930 - - - 930 1,104
Software fees 361 - - - 361 118
1,291 - - - 1,291 1,222
----- End of picture text -----

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the financial report (continued)

8 Tangible fixed assets

----- Start of picture text -----
Freehold land Designated Restricted Endowed Total fixed
and buildings Funds Funds Fund assets Notes
£ £ £ £
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2025 375,000 - - - 375,000
Additions - - - - -
Disposals - - - - -
Revaluation -
At 31 December 2025 375,000 - - - 375,000
Charge for impairment
At 1 January 2025 - - - - -
Additions - - - - -
Disposals - - - - -
Revaluation - - - - -
At 31 December 2025 - - - - -
Net book amounts
At 31 December 2025 375,000 - - - 375,000
At 31 December 2024 375,000 - - - 375,000
----- End of picture text -----

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.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the financial report (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
9 Analysis of net assets by fund
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Fixed assets for church use - - - 375,000 375,000 375,000
Current assets (except cash) 8,157 563 884 - 9,604 4,977
Cash at bank and on deposit 155,972 362,219 137,256 - 655,447 669,673
Current liabilities (17,462) (2,897) (397) - (20,756) (17,406)
146,667 359,885 137,743 375,000 1,019,295 1,032,244
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10 Debtors

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Gift Aid 3,017 563 884 - 4,464 2,920
Grants due 2,000 - - - 2,000 -
Prepayments 1,650 - - - 1,650 1,595
Other Donations 1,343 - 1,343 -
Other Debtors 147 - - - 147 4
8,157 563 884 - 9,604 4,519
11 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
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----- Start of picture text -----
11 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowed Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds Fund 2025 2024 Notes
£ £ £ £ £
Mission Giving - - - - - 7,786
Deferred Income 1,200 - 20 - 1,220 426
Governance Costs 930 - - - 930 1,104
Giving to Charities 926 - - - 926 268
Payroll Liabilities 8,100 - - - 8,100 -
Accruals 6,241 2,897 377 - 9,515 7,738
Other 65 - - - 65 84
17,462 2,897 397 - 20,756 17,406
----- End of picture text -----

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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 2025	Income	Expenditure	Transfers, other gains **and losses **	Balances c/fwd 31 Dec 2025
		£	£	£	£	£
	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	75,872 4,267 179 - 789 75,849	9,732 2,259 - - - -	(6,760) (4,765) - - (559) (19,120)	- - - - - -	78,844 1,761 179 - 230 56,729
	Total of all restricted funds	156,956	11,991	(31,204)	-	137,743
	Old School Operating Fund Fabric Repair and Improvement Fund Farmers Market Designated Fund	33,953 311,779 1,017	45,717 2,500 2,168	(46,798) - (451)	10,000 - -	42,872 314,279 2,734
	Total of all designated funds	346,749	50,385	(47,249)	10,000	359,885
	General Fund	153,539	237,419	(234,291)	(10,000)	146,667
	Total of all Unrestricted Funds	153,539	237,419	(234,291)	(10,000)	146,667
	Total funds	1,032,244	299,795	(312,744)	-	1,019,295
**13 **	Transfers between funds A transfer of £10,000_(2024: £10,000)_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.

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the financial report (continued)

14 Prior year statement of financial activities - comparative figures for this year Statement of Financial Activities - 2024

Statement of Financial Activities - 2024
	Unrestricted Fund	Designated Funds		Restricted Funds		Endowed Fund	Total Funds 2024
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 -
Total income	268,027	45,891		68,190		-	382,108
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 - -
Total expenditure	210,225	67,321		8,919		-	286,465
Net gains (or losses) on investments
Net income or (net expenditure)	57,802	(21,430)		59,271		-	95,643
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 - -
Net movement in funds	47,802	(11,430)		59,271		-	95,643
Total funds brought forward	105,737	358,179		97,685		375,000	936,601
Total funds carried forward	153,539	346,749		156,956		375,000	1,032,244

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Holy Trinity Church Cuckfield: Annual Report & Financial Statements 2025

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 2025 which are set out on pages 16-26.

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:

• examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act;

• to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and

• to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

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:

• accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act, or

• the accounts do not accord with the accounting records, or

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

I have 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:

Amy Beecroft FCA 19 Newton Road Lindfield West Sussex RH16 2NB

Date: 6[th] May 2026

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