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2021-12-31-accounts

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Year ending 31 December 2021

Charity number 1131636

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

Contents

Parochial Church Council 1
Annual Report 2
Independent Examiner’s Report 5
Statement of Financial Activities 6
Balance Sheet 7
Notes to the financial statements 8

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

Parochial Church Council

Priest-in-charge: In vacancy Revd. Helen Johnson (to 31[st] July 2021) Independent Reporting David Oakensen, Accountants: William Price & Co, Chartered Accountants, Suite 9, Westbury Court, Church Road, Bristol BS9 3EF Bankers: HSBC 11 Canford Lane Westbury-on-Trym Bristol BS9 3DE

1

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

The Parochial Church Council present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2021. The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ ‘true and fair view’ provisions, together with FRS102 (2016) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2016 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP(FRS 102)).

Charitable Status

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a corporate body established by the Church of England under the PCC Powers Measure. The PCC was registered as a charity in 2009, with charity number 1131636, having previously been an excepted charity. The PCC members have complied with the duty in section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission.

Aims and Purposes

The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also maintains the Tithe Barn in accordance with its aims and objectives, making it available for the purposes of St Mary’s and for the use of the inhabitants of all ages with the object of improving the conditions of life for the Inhabitants.

Objectives and Activities

St Mary’s Church, Shirehampton, provides Church of England services and religious activities for all ages, including outreach into the community via work with youth and the elderly. We run a toddler group, youth group, dance classes, a Mothers’ Union branch, a Mental Awareness Group branch and host a ‘Goldies’ singing group. In addition we hold various social activities during the year.

Structure, governance and management

Members of the PCC are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

During the year, the following served as members:

Priest-in-charge: Revd Helen Johnson Resigned 31[st] July 2021 Assistant Curate: Revd Simon Leighton To 15[th] February 2022 Wardens: Anne Ford Richard Powell Deanery Synod Representatives: Pat Davidson Shemma Laws Kathryn Mwakijungu Elected Members: Tim Forder Electoral Roll Officer Philip Fowler Treasurer & Data Protection Officer Colin Godfrey Resigned 9[th] May 2021 Richard Griffiths Health & Safety Officer – Church Diana Hemmings Resigned 25[th] April 2021 Doug Jennings Sarah Parry Reid Secretary Tony Symons Health & Safety Officer – Tithe Barn Safeguarding Officer (not in PCC) Emma Jennings Resigned June 2021 Lucy Swithinbank Resigned 31[st] January 2022

2

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

Standing Committee:

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

Financial Review

Income at £140,382 (2020: £125,025) was lower than expenditure of £155,420 (2020: £135,704) to give net expenditure of £15,038 (2020: £10,679 net expenditure). Conditions continued to be challenging in 2021, though we opened our doors again for services and most of our coffee mornings restarted to the delight of our local community. The continued generosity of our church family and returns on investments have limited the decrease in income. We have continued keeping a careful control over costs.

Giving to missions/charities from general funds totalled £3,300 (2020: £3,750). The amount paid to the Diocese for parish and ministry costs was £59,660 (2020: £59,660).

Restricted expenditure exceeded restricted income by £10,732 (2020: £7,402 expenditure exceeded income), mainly due to planned repairs undertaken in 2021 being funded by income received and restricted in previous years, especially a restricted grant of £10,500 that was received in December 2020 for the repair of vestry windows.

The gain on revaluation of shares held as endowment funds was £92,254 (2020: £48,352).

The Charity Commission approved a scheme allowing us to sell shares to the value of £109,000 to partly fund the purchase of the Tithe Barn, on the condition these shares would be purchased back until the full number of shares were reinstated. At 31 December 2021, the total market value of the amount remaining to be paid was £65,391, after £5,000 of shares were repurchased in 2021. The full amount is to be repaid by 2033.

Reserves Policy

The PCC aim to maintain reserves in unrestricted funds at a level that will allow sufficient funds to be available to pay for charitable activities as they arise and also to ensure that support and governance costs can be met as they fall due. The balance held as unrestricted funds at the year-end was £453,512 (2020: £457,818).

Where possible, we maintain reserves to cover, as a minimum, identifiable repair and maintenance costs relating to the fabric and furnishings of St Mary’s, three months’ parish share payments and 25% of the amounts required from fund raising to cover general expenditure. We have identified net expenditure on fabric and furnishings for 2022 at £3,000, parish contributions to the Diocese for three months total £15,000 and £2,000 is required to cover any shortfall in fundraising.

Investments

The Bristol Diocesan Board of Finance Ltd, as custodial trustees, hold CBF Ltd shares on our behalf in both the Bernard Salmon and Napier Miles Trusts. In addition, 404 CBF shares are held in respect of the Ecclesiastical and nonEcclesiastical Charities.

3

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

PCC Responsibility for the Financial Statements

The law requires the PCC to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Parish and of its income and expenditure for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the PCC is required to:

The PCC members are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Parish and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the relevant legislation. They are also responsible for safeguarding assets of the Parish and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Approved by the PCC on 29[th] April 2022

and signed on their behalf by Richard Powell (Church Warden & PCC Vice-Chair)

4

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

Independent Examiner’s Report to the PCC of the Parish of St Mary, Shirehampton, Bristol.

I report on the accounts of the church for the year ended 31 December 2021 which are set out on pages 6 to 14.

Respective Responsibilities of PCC and Examiner

The PCC is responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The PCC considers 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.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of Independent Examiner’s report

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 matter has come to my attention:

  1. Which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements

  2. a. To keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and

  3. b. To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or

  4. To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

David Oakensen FCA William Price & Co Ltd Westbury Court, Church Road Westbury-on-Trym BS9 3EF

Date: 29[th] April 2022

5

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

Statement of Financial Activities

Unrestricted
Restricted Endowment
Total
funds
funds
funds
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£		 Unrestricted
Restricted Endowment
Total
funds
funds
funds
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£
Notes
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
Income from charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other income
Total income
2
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
Expenditure on charitable activities
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
3
Net (expenditure) /income before gains and
transfer
Gains on investment assets
Net movement in funds
Total funds brought forward at 1 January
2021
Total funds carried forward at 31 December
2021
10		 90,653
4,361
—
95,014
92,296
9,135
—
—
9,135
3,179
6,099
—
—
6,099
1,964
19,697
—
—
19,697
19,030
10,437
—
—
10,437
8,556
136,021
4,361
—
140,382
125,025
9
—
—
9
468
132,821
15,093
—
147,914
127,739
7,497
—
—
7,497
7,497
140,327
15,093
—
155,420
**135,704 **
(4,306)
(10,732)
—
(15,038)
(10,679)
—
—
92,254
92,254
48,352
(4,306)
(10,732)
92,254
77.216
37,673
457,818
24,649
682,268
1,164,735
1,127,062
453,512
13,917
774,522
1,241,951
1,164,735

All incoming resources and resources expended derive from continuing activities.

Notes 1 to 10 form part of these financial statements.

6

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021 Balance sheet

2021
2020
£
£
376,858
384,355
779,522
682,268
1,156,380
1,066,623
7,533
6,505
82,603
98,254
90,136
104,759
(4,565)
(6,647)
85,571
98,112
1,241,951
1,164,735
453,512
457,818
13,917
24,649
774,522
682,268
1,241,951
1,164,735
Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
5
Investments
6
Current assets
Debtors
7
Cash at bank and in hand
Liabilities
Creditors: Amounts falling due in one year
8
Net current assets
Total net assets less liabilities
Represented by
Unrestricted funds
10
Restricted funds
10
Endowment funds
10
Total Funds

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 29[th] April 2022

Richard Powell P Fowler Church Warden & PCC Vice-Chair Treasurer

Notes 1 to 10 form part of these financial statements.

7

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

1 Accounting Policies

Basis of preparation and assessment of going concern

The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ ‘true and fair view’ provisions, together with FRS102 (effective 1 January 2019) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2019 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP(FRS 102)).

The financial statements use the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these financial statements. The valuation of investment assets are shown at market value.

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 main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

The PCC constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

The presentation currency of the financial statements is sterling and all figures are rounded to the nearest pound.

The PCC considers there are no material uncertainties about their ability to continue as a going concern.

Fund accounting policy

Unrestricted funds are general funds that can be used for PCC ordinary purposes in furtherance of the objectives of the charity.

Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for a specific purpose, the use of which is restricted to that area. These funds represent income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of the year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not invest separately for each fund. Where there is no separate investment, interest will in future be appointed to individual funds on an average balance basis.

Endowment funds are funds, the capital of which must be maintained. Only income arising from investment of the endowment may be used either as restricted or unrestricted funds, depending on the purpose for which the endowment was established.

Incoming resources

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Dividends are accounted for when receivable, interest is accrued. All other income is recognised when receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for gross.

Resources expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Volunteer Help

The value of any voluntary help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the Annual Report. All help received is greatly appreciated.

8

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

Fixed Assets Consecrated property and moveable church furnishings

Consecrated and beneficed property is not included in the accounts in accordance with S.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 2011.

Moveable church furnishings held by the Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC, and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church’s inventory which can be inspected (at a reasonable time). For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts. Items acquired since 1 January 2000 with individual value below £1,000 are written off.

Depreciation

Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost, less any residual value, over their expected useful life, as follows:

Tithe Barn 2% of construction and refurbishment cost on a straight line basis

Investments

Investments are valued at market value at 31 December. Investment gains and losses resulting from revaluing investments to market value are reflected in the Statement of Financial Activities.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax as it has no taxable activities. Irrecoverable VAT borne by the charity is included in the cost of the item to which it relates.

Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisitions or opening of the deposit or similar account.

Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount at which the charity is expected to benefit in a future period. Provision is made for any amount that may prove uncollectible.

Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance Sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide. Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation.

Financial instruments

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

9

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

2 Income

Donations and legacies
Gift aided donations
Gift aided donations via envelope
Planned giving
Collections (open plate) at all services
Sundry donations
Donations – appeals, grants etc.
Tax recoverable on gift aided donations
Floodlighting
Legacies received
Donations and legacies total
Income from charitable activities
Fees for weddings and funerals
Tithe Barn lettings – objectives
Other income
Income from charitable activities total
Other trading activities
Fayres
Tithe Barn lettings – other
Other trading activities total
Investments
Interest - dividends
Bernard Salmon Trust income
Napier Miles Trust income
Investments total
Other income
Telecommunications agreement
Other income total
Total income		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
1,992
—
7,042
—
36,017
—
1,746
—
8,325
361
21,548
3,500
10,723
—
260
—
3,000
500		 2021
£
2020
£
1,992
2,521
7,042
6,796
36,017
35,312
1,746
1,268
8,686
7,350
25.048
28,287
10,723
10,492
260
270
3,500
—
90,653
**4,361 **		 95,014
92,296
7,111
—
88
—
1,936
—		 7,111
1,953
88
804
1,936
422
9,135
—		 9,135
3,179
3,673
—
2,426
—		 3,673
1,367
2,426
597
6,099
—		 6,099
**1,964 **
190
—
12,687
—
6,820
—		 190
294
12,687
12,150
6,820
6,586
19,697
—		 19,697
19,030
10,437
—		 10,437
8,556
10,437
—		 10,437
8,556
136,021
**4,361 **		 140,382
125,025

10

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

3 Expenditure

Raising Funds
Costs of fayres and events
Raising funds total
Charitable Activities
Grants and donations – missions:
African Pastors Fellowship
Compassion
Corymeela
In Hope (Crisis Centres Ministries)
Open Doors
Mercy Ships
Water Aid
Youth with a Mission Harpenden
Bristol West Deanery
Youth Programmes
Food and Fellowship
Ministry Parish Share
Charitable activities subtotal
Charitable activities – support costs
Employment costs
Telephone and broadband costs
Parish training and mission
Fees paid for weddings and funerals
Additional organist fees
Verger fees
Church running – insurance
Kitchen consumables and equipment
Church and office equipment
Organ/piano tuning
Church maintenance and replacements
Cleaning & hygiene
Altar requisites
Upkeep of churchyard
Printing and stationery
Sundry expenses
Church running – utilities
Specific expenses
Tithe Barn running – caretaking
Tithe Barn running – rates and utilities
Tithe Barn insurance
Tithe Barn maintenance
Tithe Barn broadband
Governance costs – independent examination
Professional and other fees
Charitable activities – support costs subtotal
Charitable costs total
Other expenditure
Depreciation
Other expenditure total
Total expenditure		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
9
—		 2021
£
2020
£
9
468
9
—		 9
468
500
—
1,200
—
100
—
500
—
500
—
250
—
250
—
—
—
—
—
752
—
—
—
59,660
—		 500
500
1,200
1,200
100
100
500
500
500
500
250
250
250
250
—
100
—
350
752
593
—
13
59,660
59,660
63,712
—		 63,712
64,016
33,497
—
1,167
—
361
—
218
—
400
—
295
—
3,228
—
753
—
363
193
1,632
—
4,922
12,716
602
—
686
346
1,253
—
2,895
—
57
—
7,065
—
1,128
—
—
—
1,384
—
1,383
—
2,583
554
510
—
780
—
1,947
1,284		 33,497
32,243
1,167
993
361
(20)
218
—
400
80
295
330
3,228
3,318
753
370
556
1,006
1,632
903
17,638
4,949
602
639
1,032
182
1,253
1,301
2,895
2,597
57
196
7,065
6,397
1,128
1,539
—
(400)
1,384
1,854
1,383
1,438
3,137
1,988
510
680
780
780
3,231
360
69,109
15,093		 84,202
63,723
132,821
15,093		 147,914
127,739
7,497
—		 7,497
7,497
7,497
—		 7,497
**7,497 **
140,327
15,093		 155,420
**135,704 **

11

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

4 Staff Costs

2021
£
2020
£
The aggregate payroll costs of staff were as follows:
Gross payroll and employer’s national insurance contributions
Employer’s pension contributions
Number of part-time staff		 32,771
31,533
726
710
33,497
32,243
2021
Number
2020
Number
4
4

5 Fixed Assets for use by PCC

Tithe
Barn
£
2021
£
Cost
At 1 January and 31 December 2021
Depreciation
At 1 January 2021
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2021
Net Book Value
At 31 December 2021
At 31 December 2020		 515,000
515,000
515,000
515,000
130,645
130,645
7,497
7,497
138,142
138,142
376,858
376,858
384,355
384,355

12

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

6 Investment Assets – Endowment Funds

Number
of shares		 Church
£
Shire
Charities
£		 2021
£
2020
£
Bernard Salmon Fund
At 1 January 2021
Shares purchased in year
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
At 31 December 2021
Napier Miles Trust
At 1 January 2021
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
At 31 December 2021
CBF Shares Charity Funds
At 1 January 2021
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
At 31 December 2021
Summary
Market value at 1 January 2021
Shares purchased in year
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
Total investment assets at 31
December 2021		 20,976
480
—		 439,979
—
5,000
—
57,506
—		 439,979
407,106
5,000
—
57,506
32,873
21,456 502,485
—		 502,485
439,979
11,475
—		 235,098
—
33,631
—		 235,098
219,971
33,631
15,127
11,475 268,729
—		 268,729
235,098
404
—		 —
7,191
—
1,117		 7,191
6,839
1,117
352
**404 ** —
8,308		 8,308
**7,191 **
675,077
7,191
5,000
—
91,137
1,117		 682,268
633,916
5,000
—
92,254
48,352
771,214
8,308		 779,522
682,268

7 Debtors

2021
£
2020
£
Prepayments
Other debtors		 5,352
4,186
2,181
2,319
7,533
6,505

8 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

2021
£
2020
£
Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income
Taxation and social security
Other creditors		 829
164
3,334
5,677
142
139
260
667
4,565
6,647

13

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2021

9 Analysis of Net Assets by Fund

Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£
Endowment
£
2021
Total
£
Fixed assets for church use
Investment fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities		 376,858
—
—
376,858
—
—
779,522
779,522
81,219
13,917
(5,000)
90,136
(4,565)
—
—
(4,565)
453,512
13,917
774,522
**1,241,951 **

10 Fund movement by type

Opening
£
Incoming
£
Outgoing
£
Transfers
£		 Gains/
(losses)
£
Closing
£
Endowment Funds
Restricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Grand total		 682,268
—
—
—
24,649
4,361
(15,093)
—
457,818
136,021
(140,327)
—		 92,254
774,522
—
13,917
—
453,512
1,164,735
140,382
(155,420)
—		 92,254
**1,241,951 **
Analysis of Restricted Funds 2021
£
2020
£
Audio Visual & Music Equipment Fund
Memorial Garden
Gift Day - Lighting
Security System
Flower Fund
Roof Fund
Vestry Window Repair
Vestments
Total Restricted Funds		 3,112
3,305
1,600
1,600
1,750
1,750
2,800
2,800
488
473
3,667
4,221
—
10,500
500
—
13,917
24,649

14

Space for Notes

Come: as you are Be: renewed Go: share God’s love

www.stmarysshire.org

When you have finished with this document please recycle it or better still pass it on to a friend.

•• ST MARY'S SHIREHAMPTON Ik IFII ui Annual PCC Report April 2021- March 2022

Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report

Background:

St Mary’s PCC has the responsibility of promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

Membership:

Members of the PCC are elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules.

During the year, the following served as members:

Priest-in-Charge: Revd Helen Johnson Resigned 31stJuly 2021
Curate: Revd Simon Leighton To 15thFebruary 2022
Wardens: Anne Ford
Richard Powell Vice-Chair
Representatives on Pat Davidson
The Deanery Synod: Shemma Laws
Kathryn Mwakijungu
Secretary: Sarah Parry Reid
Treasurer: Philip Fowler Also Data Protection Officer
Elected Members: Tim Forder Electoral Roll Officer
Colin Godfrey Resigned 9thMay 2021
Richard Griffiths Health & Safety Officer – Church
Doug Jennings
Tony Symons Health & Safety Officer – Tithe Barn
Safeguarding Emma Jennings (not on PCC): Resigned June 2021
Lucy Swithinbank (not on PCC): Resigned 31stJanuary 2022
Claire Staynings (not on PCC): In training

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Churchwardens Report

Well what a year we have had when the nature of things once again turned the normal patterns of life and worship inside out and upside down! However, we have kept going albeit by telephone, email, hand delivered Links and Zoom, particularly during the third Lockdown of January to March 2021. Up until recent years the verb zoom generally meant ‘to move fast’ or it has been the name of a popular ice-lolly. However, it became an important means to keep meetings happening and for the strategic planning for dealing with all matters of the Church-especially keeping up to date with the ever changing Health and Safety requirements for the Church building and worship.

Many of the traditional services throughout the Church calendar had to be adapted – but we kept going! Prayer has underpinned everything we have had to face and we look to the future and what the Lord will do for each of us, our church, the parish and the world.

Hopefully the outcome of many meetings with the Diocese will be fruitful and lead to a welcome appointment of a new vicar - to replace Helen who is now safely installed in her new home and her role at Trinity College.

During this vacancy we were supported by Simon who served us well and brought many aspects in to our worship. His technical ability also helped us enormously to fine tune aspects of the Sound system and saved the Church much money. During lockdown Simon was instrumental in setting up ways for the parish to access ’Worship from St. Mary’s’ in our homes via various ways - using media links, the telephone and hand delivered newsletters. We wish him and his family well for the future.

Reverends Trevor, Ian and Peter have been able to help keep some of our services covered. The Mission area, mainly from St. Mary’s Stoke Bishop, have also been amazing in covering many of our Sunday Services and occasional offices (weddings, funerals and baptisms). Some Sunday services were covered by Archdeacons Neil and Michael and the Area Dean, Father Charles Sutton. We look forward to welcoming Bishop Lee to the 10.30 service on Sunday 15th May (the APCM directly follows this service). We also welcomed Bishop Viv here last May. We are grateful to each of them for making our worship possible and keeping our Church doors open.

All of the churches in the Mission Area hosted a Lent evening throughout Lent.

There was also a combined service of Communion on Good Friday morning at Shirehampton Baptist Church - some of us from St. Mary’s attended this beautiful service. This was followed by an open invitation to all to come to our church in the afternoon to hear Stainer’s Crucifixion sung by our Area Choir. We thank Tim, Duncan (who played the organ) and the Choir for their many hours of practice. The Church choir have faithfully kept things going and eventually brought music back into our worship when singing was again permitted in Church. We thank Tim and the choir.

January 2021 saw us enter a third Lockdown, meaning our Services could not take place within the Church building. It was wonderful to be able to open our doors again on Easter Sunday, though we were not able to have Holy Communion that day. Despite all the enforced measures during the last year we managed to hold our traditional services: Harvest, Remembrance, Memorial, Advent and the Tree of Light, Christingle, Christmas, Mothering Sunday and Easter, although some of these had to be adapted accordingly. In general, attendance has been affected but hopefully this will recover gradually as the local situation improves.

Our teas and coffee mornings have been reinstated on three weekday mornings and on a Saturday. The Community is delighted at this and come in to enjoy the welcome, the hot drinks and the fellowship. A huge thank you to Jill, Mary and their teams of willing helpers.

Similarly, the community have shown their support at our fayres we managed to hold this past year. It was a welcome glimpse of normality to see so many folk in the Churchyard at our outdoor fayre (and the sun shone which helped lift our spirits). Further fayres have been held in Church and have brought in the community and the much appreciated and needed funds generated have helped finances. In addition to the donations made by many of our church family, we are grateful for all craft donations made by a talented team of crafters who regularly donate items for sale during our events.

It’s a joy to see Rise and Shine in action here every Sunday, ably planned and led by Amy Boucher and her small team of helpers (8.30-9.30am). Amy also leads all the Youth activities at the Barn. We pray that some of these young people and their parents will feel welcome at becoming full members of the Church family. Amy also visits our local schools to lead assemblies. It is a joy to welcome our local schools to services especially at Easter and

Christmas.

Much team work and many meetings form the means for keeping the Church Building sound and a safe environment for all. Various Committees oversee the smooth running of things.

Ultimately, we work together and as Churchwardens, Richard and I take very active roles -this is especially apparent since we have been in Vacancy. The recent Visitation and

Triennial inspection was carried out by Archdeacon Michael and Rachel Stewart recently. The Church Building and the churchyard was inspected along with all the important records we have to keep and items checked against the Property register. Finance documentation was checked and all was found to be in good order.

Richard, assisted by Colin, work hard behind the scenes at Tithe Barn and in the Church or should I say above the Church - they both have a penchant for climbing ladders in order to maintain the guttering and flat roofs. They also help to maintain the fabric in good order of the interior in the Church and at the Barn.

I liaise with both Bristol City Council Parks department and with Canford Cemetery with regard to the main Churchyard. The Parks department is now responsible for the trees, grass-cutting and general upkeep of the monuments.

Recently a large branch fell from one of the tall Fir trees alongside the path. I contacted the appropriate department and between them and two very kind parishioners the problem was solved. I have asked for a full survey of all the trees in the churchyard and work has already begun on removing the ivy and creepers from the trunks of the trees. We are responsible for maintaining the Gardens of Remembrance.

Our vergers, Jill, Chris and Colin do a variety of jobs (usually behind the scenes) and give generously of their time. Shelley keeps the Church and Tithe Barn premises clean and of course, delights us with her flower arrangements throughout the year. Jill and Shelley are always grateful for donations to the flower fund.

Lastly, but not least, both Philip and Eleanor maintain all things financial/clerical in excellent order. We are grateful for their expertise, dedication and hard work.

Richard and I value your support and encouragement. We thank you all for whatever part you play to enhance the worship and fellowship in our Church.

Together as a Church family we look forward to the future together at St. Mary’s and we thank God for His many blessings and that we can come as we are, to be renewed and to share God’s love.

Keep well and Keep safe,

Anne Ford

Churchwardens Report on the Fabric of the Church Building

Urgent Work Highlighted by The Quinquennial Inspection of May 2019.

The most urgent condition that required attention was the expansion of corroding metal window frames in the Choir and Vicars Vestry and the West end windows. Faculty application ref 2021-058599 was approved by the Diocesan Advisory Committee and the refurbishment of the windows has been completed.

Other work highlighted by the Quinquennial Inspection will be addressed when finances allow. This includes the repointing of damaged mortar on external walls.

Church Yard

Maintenance of the church yard is the responsibility of Bristol City Council following formal closure for burials. However, we continue to maintain our memorial gardens

Church Security

The church alarm system continues to work well with remote monitoring and call-out facility of a key holder.

External metal on the building is protected with smartwater applied to all surfaces and the required notices displayed.

All low level drainpipes have been treated with anti-climb paint above 2M from the ground and the required notices displayed.

Routine Maintenance and Certification by Contractors

Annual tests and certification of the following are up to date:

  1. Lightning conductors.

  2. The church heating system and operation of its gas system and supply.

  3. The security alarm system.

  4. Fire Extinguishers.

  5. Radio microphones licences.

  6. The organ humidifier.

  7. Portable electrical appliance testing (PAT).

Routine Maintenance – In-house

A schedule of routine maintenance continues to operate ensuring a regular review of the condition of the building and any actions needed. The schedule includes frequent checks of such items as roofs, gullies, drainpipes, windows, toilets, water heaters, church ladders, timber door thresholds, tea/coffee water heater de-scaling and more.

5 Yearly Inspection of Electrical Circuits

This was carried out by Daley Electrical on 8[th] April 2022 and we are waiting for the report and recommendations required to bring the church up to standard.

Cellnex Telecoms Equipment

A Faculty to remove the telecoms equipment and mast has been approved by the Diocesan Advisory Committee ref 2021-068188. We now wait to hear from Cellnex to understand when work will commence to remove their equipment.

Quinquennial Inspection

The next quinquennial (five yearly) church inspection is due in 2024.

Triennial Inspection

The Archdeacons’ triennial (three yearly) inspection to check church records, processes and property was carried out on 31[st] March 2022.

Finally

Grateful thanks go to:-

Richard Powell

Safeguarding Officer’s Annual Report

Emma Jennings stood down as Safeguarding Officer in June 2021 and this vacancy was difficult to fill, so we were grateful to Lucy Swithinbank of St Mary’s Stoke Bishop for stepping in until January 2022. We thank them both for all they have done to ensure our policies and procedures remained robust in order to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm.

The central church embodies national safeguarding laws into policies and passes them down to each diocese that, in turn, produce their own policies, guidance material and training for parishes. Parishes are required to develop their own policies, procedures, training plans and records for all safeguarding actions/events and have in place named safeguarding officers.

Safeguarding is discussed at every PCC meeting and Leadership Team meeting.

We welcome Claire Staynings as our new Parish Safeguarding Officer for children and adults and she is currently undergoing training.

Claire can be contacted for advice or to report an incident via a dedicated email address, safeguarding@stmarysshire.org. These details can be found on the church noticeboard in the porch or on the church website, www.stmarysshire.org.

Policies

Those in place at St Mary’s are for:

Policies are reviewed appropriately by the PCC and updated as required.

We have displayed safeguarding information near the main church entrance and also in the toilets of both the church and the Tithe Barn. The policies will also be kept available at the church and will be accessible to all when the church is open.

Training

Bristol Diocese provides all types of training at different levels and for specific roles in safeguarding. A rolling programme of training is made available to all workers and volunteers when required.

Thank you to all who have given their time to undertake training and make our church a safer place.

– Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly Criminal Records Bureau CRB)

This is referred to as DBS and is a national service for checking the background of new employees and leaders of children’s and vulnerable adult activities. The system can bar anyone whose record shows them to be unsuitable. We are required to update our DBS checks on volunteers on a rolling basis and another round of checks is in process. We thank all those who have taken time to have theirs completed. DBS checks at St Mary’s are carried out by Eleanor Beddoes.

Records

It is important that any records containing personal details, such as notes written during the investigation of a safeguarding event, are kept confidential and secure. Our safeguarding officer of St Mary’s has access to a document safe and encrypted memory stick used specifically for this purpose.

Finance Report

The Covid-19 pandemic continued to adversely affect St Mary's financial activities, while gradually returning to normal towards the end of the year. The PCC’s objective has been to honour our pledges and mission support as far as possible, and as a result, we have fulfilled our Parish Share to Bristol Diocese in the sum of £59,660 and giving to missions/charities remained broadly unchanged.

Other donations of food for the Harvest Appeal were made by members of the congregation to the North Bristol Foodbank. We also continue to sponsor two children via Compassion UK, partially paid for by the families at the Rise and Shine Service, and we gave to The Children’s Society via collecting boxes and at the Christingle service collection.

Church members and supporters gave £36,017 in 2021 in planned giving.

We purchased £5,000 worth of Bernard Salmon shares during the year, in line with the Charity Commission requirements to repurchase shares as shown in the notes to our financial accounts.

We have introduced new methods of giving in the past year, enabling donations to be made more easily online if that is preferred. We also have a card reader that enables contactless payment and payment by card, which has proven useful at our fairs in particular.

I should like to thank all those who have continued to count the cash, and Chris and Jill Eynon, for undertaking the banking on a weekly basis.

Summary Financial Information:
2021 2020 change
Total income 140,382 125,025 15,357
Total expenditure 155,420 135,704 (19,716)
Net (expenditure)/income (15,038) (10,679) (4,359)
Gains on investment assets 92,254 48,352 43,902
Fixed assets 1,156,380 1,066,623 89,757
Current assets 90,136 104,759 (14,623)
Current liabilities (4,565) (6,647) 2,082
Net current assets 85,571 98,112 (12,541)
Total funds 1,241,951 1,164,735 77,216

Phil Fowler - Treasurer

Health and Safety Report

As we have seen the gradual easing of the lockdown restrictions, we have changed the measures that we endured and now are almost back to pre-pandemic measures. 2

The upholstered chairs are now back in place and the tables set out at the front for Rise and Shine are once again at the back of the church so that families can decide whether to remain in their family “bubble” or share tables with other families.

At this time of writing, the wardens and PCC agreed that Eucharist should continue in the manner we have become accustomed to, with consuming the communion wafer only. The wearing of masks is only for personal preference and we are enjoying singing again, including the sung eucharist. Thanks to Shelley, and all who have also kept the church clean and sanitised.

Safety checks continue to be made throughout the building. Thanks to Richard Powell and Colin for all their help and especially all the jobs needing ladders! The electrical safety checks have been carried out and the necessary audits have been completed to ensure safety for all. Thanks to all of you for the way you have cooperated and responded to the tight measures we had to put in place and for playing your part in keeping yourself and others safe.

Richard Griffiths

Children’s and Youth Report

The past year has seen constant adaptations and changes to adhere to Covid-19 guidelines throughout all of our groups. Despite this, we have engaged with lots of families through the following sessions in a Covid safe way:

STOMP Dance Clubs:

We were able to bring all of our age groups back under new Covid safe rules and regulations. All dancers adapted really well to the various guidelines and took all the restrictions in their stride. We have 45 dancers across the age groups on a regular basis who have been working hard on routines and confidence building. Break time topics have been used to help with team building whist looking at various faith topics. We are looking forward to various performance opportunities that are steadily becoming available again.

Youth @ The Barn:

Our sessions are now fully up and running with 12 regular attendees. The young people love being back (even at periods with masks/ 2m distance etc.) and are looking forward to expanding the range of activities they are able to do. Some of our Young People are approaching the end of schooling and are now keen to help as young leaders which is great to see.

Totstop:

Unfortunately, we have been unable to bring Totstop back in person this year mainly due to a lack of volunteers.

Messy Church:

Messy Church has been able to run on a monthly basis again with the theme of this year being ‘Jesus said...’, where each month we look at a famous quote that Jesus said and how we can apply it to our lives. We regularly see a core group of 10-20 children, but can be as big as 60 children at Easter and Christmas when we invite STOMP to perform- it is great to be able to welcome these families into Church.

GLOW:

We have a core group of 8 Young People who have been attending Glow sessions to ask bigger faith questions. The group has helped to plan what topics they would like covered with ideas such as exploring the ‘love is...’ Bible passage, looking at the Easter story and archaeology of the Bible. The young people particularly enjoyed a cooking session using ingredients and recipes of Biblical times and were pleasantly surprised by their homemade flat bread, vegetable soup and hummus!

Schools Work:

We are able to regularly attend Shire Primary School for monthly assemblies to both KS1 and KS2. We have also been able to hold their Christmas and Easter Assemblies at the Church and welcome in the visiting families to watch too.

Summer Sessions:

In August 2021, we held 4 summer sessions at the Tithe Barn with multiple timeslots to ensure all age groups had a chance to attend. These sessions were attended by adult family members which gave a wonderful opportunity to catch up with the whole family after such a long time of strict Covid guidance. Activities included picnics, quizzes, craft, cake decorating, milkshake making, scavenger hunts, photo challenges and a life size Big Bible Board game. We look forward to running some summer sessions again this year.

Sunday Activities:

Rise and Shine has continued to grow and develop since launching in September 2020. Numbers can range anywhere between 20-60 people depending on the time of year and special occasions, as well as having children from a broad age range of 0-11. It has been lovely to see families from a range of areas come together and engage in creative methods of worship and teaching, catch up over breakfast together and keep fit with the worship action songs!!

/ 2[?] In addition to the Rise and Shine Services, we held a special Glow service at o the end of October to praise Jesus as light of the world and in December we held our annual Christingle and Nativity services.

A huge thank you to all leaders and volunteers for helping on various teams - you have made such a valuable difference to our local children and young

people and we look forward to continuing to do this as we head towards the Summer. A special mention also to our teens, who come along to many of our events/ performances to help oe serve food, run craft, man the sound system and help to set up and clear up- it’s much appreciated!

Amy Boucher Youth Worker

Mothers’ Union

TRANSFORMATION – NOW

As we start a new triennium, and look to the future with fresh vision, this is our theme for 2022. Through a global pandemic, Mothers' Union members have shown amazing resilience, responsiveness and adaptability and this theme gives us the impetus to transform ourselves, our churches and communities and Mothers' Union to be relevant for today.

We have a new Diocesan President, Jacky Fredrickson who will be commissioned at St Mary’s Church, Yate on 15[th] May at 4pm. We also have a new group of trustees who will lead us all during the next 3 years.

Bristol West Deanery News

We hosted the Deanery Festival at St Mary’s which was very successful and we also organised a Deanery Picnic in August for Mary Sumner’s Day (who is our Founder). Everyone brought their own picnic and we supplied the drinks. The collection was sent to Mary Sumner House for the Summer of Hope Appeal. On the 3[rd] Thursday of each month Mothers’ Union are to lead readings and intercessions at Bristol Cathedral. Our Deanery’s turn was on 21[st] October. Four of us went and Anne read the lesson. The AntiSlavery service in the Cathedral was well attended. The chains were carried around the Cathedral and we were given some to put in our own churches. Our own Deanery Advent Service was at St Peter’s Church, Filton where some of us were given long service certificates. Amazingly we started in 2011!

Branch News

Our Wave of Prayer in September was followed by tea and cake, then a hilarious game of Bingo. After lockdown we had a talk about rebuilding hope and confidence which was interesting. We had an extremely good speaker who talked about ‘Stay young and beautiful’ which was also humorous! At the St. Mary’s Christmas Fayre we ran a chocolate tombola and the finale of the year was our superb Christmas lunch at Shirehampton Golf Club.

We have given twiddle muffs to our local care home; Prayer squares to those who wanted them. ( There are some pinned to the MU notice board in church if you would like one ); Cot blankets, toiletries and money were given to Friends for Parents who volunteer at the Children’s Hospital.

Pam Crawford was presented with a bouquet and card in thanks for her work as Treasurer for the last 10 years. She has decided to step down from this role.

I would like to thank the Committee and all of our members for their support and generosity. I would also like to thank Phil Fowler for auditing our yearly accounts.

We have a full and interesting programme for 2022. If you would like to join us just pop along to a meeting which is at Tithe Barn on the 2[nd] Wednesday of each month at 2pm.

Julie Smith

Branch Leader

Coffee Mornings

July 2021 saw the lifting of some of the Covid19 restrictions which meant that we

could once more reintroduce Coffee Mornings in the Church. We called upon folks to volunteer to assist with the Coffee Mornings from 10.00 am until 12.00 noon and sufficient numbers stepped forward which enabled us to open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. A couple of former volunteers decided to retire due to increasing age or mobility problems. To them we offer our grateful thanks for their sterling service. Since the New Year, further volunteers have come forward, meaning we were delighted to announce that Tea and Coffee was once more be available on Saturday mornings. To these additional volunteers, we are again deeply indebted for their services.

We have now reluctantly had to make a charge for Tea & Coffee whereas before we relied on donations in the Donation Box. Tea & Coffee plus a biscuit of your choice will now cost the sum of £1.50, which seems reasonable compared to local establishments. Our Treasurer is pleased to see the Coffee Mornings back as it gives us a boost in paying for our Gas and Electricity Bills which are increasingly expensive. St Mary's is a large church to heat!

Thank you for your support as we enjoy your custom and company. Jill Eynon

Building Co-ordinators Report on the Fabric of the Tithe Barn

This is the fabric report for the Tithe Barn,

prepared by ~~t~~ he churchwardens of St Mary’s Church Shirehampton.

Roofs

We experienced water ingress from the tiled roof (main hall) High Street side. After examination by Hone Construction Ltd it was found that an area of damaged felt needed to be replaced as well as 24 Pan Tiles. This work was completed in November 2021.

The roof of the orangery is in good order.

Walls, Windows and Doors

External walls of both parts of the building are in good order.

All windows are double glazed and have required routine maintenance during the year. They are all in good working order.

There is a small area of peeling paintwork on the pillar to the left of the door leading from the main hall into the extension. This requires attention.

Rain Water Goods

Gutters and downpipes of the original barn and the orangery are working and are routinely cleared of debris.

Interior

The A/V system and TV screen in the orangery are working well. Thanks go to Simon Leighton for his work on the A/V system, keeping it in good working order.

The kitchen and toilets are in good working order.

Exterior

Part of the boundary fence between the Tithe Barn and Tithe Barn Cottage was blown down during the storms in November 2021. Thanks go to Norman England for his work in replacing the missing fence. The garden is maintained by Norman England.

Security

The building is secured with modern dead locks.

External metal is protected with smartwater applied to all surfaces and the required notices displayed.

Gas Boiler

The Gas Boiler has required attention during the year. The Printed Circuit Board was replaced by Sam Smythe and the Thermal Fuse to the Heat Exchanger was replaced by Craig Franklin. The boiler is now back to working order.

5 Yearly Inspection of Electrical Circuits.

This was carried out by Daley Electrical on 11[th] April 2022; we are waiting for the report and recommendations required to bring the Tithe Barn up to standard.

Routine Maintenance and Certification by Contractors

Annual tests and certification of the following are up to date:

  1. The barn heating system and operation of its gas system and supply.

  2. The fire/smoke alarm system. (6 Monthly tests to BS 5839)

  3. Fire Extinguishers.

5. Radio microphones licences.

6. Portable electrical appliance testing (PAT).

Thanks to:-

Philip Fowler and Eleanor Beddoes for managing the lettings and accounts of the Tithe Barn.

Colin Godfrey, Monica and Tony Symons for the opening and closing of the barn, dealing with the routine maintenance and operational actions required including setting up and clearing away after each letting.

Richard Powell

Tithe Barn Report

The Covid-19 pandemic and the resultant lockdowns continued to significantly impact on the activities that usually take place, at the barn, until August when lettings gradually returned to normal.

St Mary's regularly use these facilities for STOMP, Youth Group and GLOW, all of which have been affected by the pandemic, although their meetings gradually returned to normal during the latter part of the year.

Our Mindfulness and Kintsugi Hope Groups did take place when permitted and are now meeting weekly.

Similarly, Mothers' Union monthly meetings have now returned to normal.

All the activities that took place at the barn, including lettings and charity work are controlled directly by the PCC and the roles of caretaker/ manager, building fabric co-ordinator and health and safety officer were undertaken by Colin Godfrey, Richard Powell and Tony Symons. Eleanor Beddoes and Philip Fowler provided administrative support.

Members of the PCC and the church family have supported the work of the barn and their contributions are much appreciated.

Finally, the barn was let for private hire during the latter part of the year in accordance with Government restrictions.

Philip Fowler

Tithe Barn Health and Safety

In addition to the Health & Safety reports and Tithe Barn reports earlier in this document, I report as follows:

All covid procedures are being followed.

Hand sanitisers and antiseptic sprays are placed at the entrance to the main hall and orangery together with paper towel rolls. Notices requesting their use are clearly posted. Covid sprays were available in toilets with instruction notices.

Floor distancing crosses are checked and wall plug sockets are protected. Plastic chairs are regularly checked for damage and loose screws and any broken chairs are discarded.

Bins and recycling boxes are put out/brought in.

Tony Symons

Electoral Roll Report

The current status of St Mary’s Shirehampton Electoral roll at the time of producing this report stood at 108 members. 3 Members have passed away during the last year and one has moved way. There have been no new members added to the roll, this is not surprising in view of the pandemic we have suffered. Out of the 108 members 41 live outside of this parish. Members of the Church will only be permitted to take part in any election of Officers and PCC members if they are on the Electoral Roll. & '

Tim Forder - Electoral Roll Officer

Church Music Report

The church choir has been able to get back to full numbers at services during the last year and they have sung the hymns, provided communion anthems and more recently been able to sing the communion setting at the first service of the month. We have welcomed one new member, Shelley, to the choir and she is capable of singing both a soprano and alto line.

The Shirehampton area choir were able to perform a Christmas concert this year and performed Stainer’s crucifixion on Good Friday this year (2022). Numbers in the choir are down on pre Covid times.

New members to both the Church choir and the Area choir would be welcome, anyone interested should contact me either in person or by E mail at timboford@hotmail.com. Admission to the Church choir would be subject to safeguarding checks being made.

The organ has been used regularly during the last year and is in reasonable order. The instrument has been tuned twice since our last APCM by Harrison & Harrison organ Builders. It is due another tuning at present.

Tim Forder Organist and Director of Music

Social Events Team Update

Well, what can we say about the last two years apart from what a challenge it has been to us all?

Following the enforced lengthy break from all our normal social activities, the original social team felt it was time to retire. We thank Christine Porter, Barbara Hopkins, Alison Harding, Norma Wyllie, Sally Coulstring and Natasha Stokes for all the hard work they have done.

I am grateful to Vicki Bushell, Rebecca Carroll and Emma Jennings who all came forward to form the new team.

Our first event was the Spring Fayre which took place at the end of April 2021 when we were able to meet outdoors wearing masks but still being mindful of social distancing.

A variety of stalls were arranged along the church side of the walkway with borrowed gazebos in place for protection from bad weather. We were however, blessed with a warm, sunny day. Tables and chairs were arranged on the Co-op side of the walkway so that refreshments served from the porch could be enjoyed in the sunshine.

It was a truly splendid day and a pleasure to hear the lovely buzz of a community coming together again, making connections and catching up after so long being apart. The event raised £957.

The Summer Fayre in August was our first indoor event. Forced inside because of the weather we were again mindful of social distancing, mask wearing and hand sanitising. With the help of extended family and friends the fayre was a great success. The event raised £1,006.

The Christmas Fayre was held at the end of November. Once again it was very pleasing to see our church family and wider community come together. There was a joyful, excited hum throughout the church as people participated in the various games and bought goods from a variety of stalls. Income raised at this event totalled £1,485.

We also had the sale of Christmas trees and Santa’s Grotto at the beginning of December. Here we must thank Dave Stephens for standing in as Santa at the very last minute as our usual beloved Santa (aka Colin Godfrey) was taken ill and unable to do it. The event raised income of £224 before cost of Trees.

In January we got together a rota of volunteers (a huge thank you to them all) to serve teas and coffees on Saturday mornings. As the weeks have gone by more and more of our pre-pandemic regulars have returned and the numbers of people popping in is increasing.

In February we held a pancake event and in March served cream teas, sold crafts and helped children make cards for Mother’s Day. Both these events were well attended and raised much needed funds - £137 (pancakes) and £420 (Mother’s Day Cream teas).

We thank everyone for their help whether it was baking a cake, donating items, serving on a stall or coming along and supporting us on the day. Together we’ve been very successful in bring our church family and our wider community together for some well needed fun and togetherness.

We look forward to our Spring Fayre on 7 May 2022 and welcome suggestions for other social events later in the year.

Mary Powell

Deanery Synod Report

A Deanery Synod report has been prepared and is distributed separately for your information.