## **ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS CHURCH WATFORD** 

## **Mildred Avenue, Watford WD18 7DY** 

Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Parochial Church Council for the year ended 31st December 2025 

Incumbent Vacant since 1[st] October 2024 

Bank: Barclays Bank High Street Watford WD17 2BE 

Independent Examiner: Karen Pryse 18 Frankland Road Croxley Green WD3 3AU 

St Michael and All Angels PCC is a Registered Charity No 1132010 



## _**Contents**_ 

|WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION|1|
|---|---|
|CHURCH ACTIVITIES|3|
|OUR CORE PURPOSES|5|
|PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL|6|
|PCC COMMITTEES|7|
|COMMITTEE REPORTS|8|
|OTHER ACTIVITIES|10|
|MISSION ACTION PLAN|12|
|ELECTORAL ROLL|13|
|ACCOUNTING POLICIES|14|
|TREASURER'S REPORT|15|
|BALANCE SHEET|16|
|FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES|17|
|FINANCIAL NOTES|18|
|INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT|22|





## **St Michael and All Angels Church, Annual Report for the Year January to December 2025** 

## **FROM THE CHURCHWARDENS** 

Welcome to this edition of our Annual Report, which I trust you will find interesting, informative and a good reminder of many of the things that we achieved in 2025. 

Thank you to everyone for all your help and support throughout the year and to those of you who have contributed to this document. 

We give thanks to God for the many blessings we have received throughout 2025. It has been another busy and fruitful year for our church community. 

## **Appointment of a New Vicar** 

The most significant focus of the year was the preparation of the Parish Profile and the work required to begin the search for a new vicar. A dedicated small team collaborated to produce the profile, and thanks to Elizabeth Talbot’s creativity and commitment, it was beautifully and uniquely designed. It was subsequently published in the Church Times, enabling prospective candidates to apply. 

Throughout this process, we received invaluable support from Bishop Jane, Archdeacon Charles, Rural Dean Peter, and members of the Diocesan staff. 

After three rounds of interviews, we joyfully appointed Fr Kudzayi Bverkerwa on 17 October. We later learned that his installation would take place in February 2026; we very much look forward to welcoming him. 

Meanwhile, we were in the extraordinary position of having two priests, Fr Stephen Mepham and Fr Robert Fletcher, taking most of our Sunday Services. Many thanks to both of them for their kindness and consideration. There were other visitors – the Bishop, the Archdeacon and the Rural Dean all took a turn plus Carol Walker (USPG) and Stephen Davidson, a Lay Reader who came to our rescue. Our Jacobite friends continue to worship on two Sundays each month and are generous with help cleaning the church. 

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the many times you have guided us and kept us safe. 

## _Elizabeth Watkin and Valerie Blacklock_ 

## **WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION FROM THE VICARAGE** 

I thank God for enabling my family and me to join St Michael and All Angels. We are grateful for the warm welcome we have received and for the strong sense of community we have already experienced. My journey here began with the interview on 11 October 2025, which was a significant and affirming step in discerning God’s call to this parish. That journey was beautifully marked by my licensing, installation, and induction on 11 February 2026 truly a special and memorable occasion in the life of both my family and the church. 

Although APCM reports are usually annual, I wanted to share some reflections from these first few months since arriving in February. It has been a joy to become part of such a diverse and committed church family. I am especially thankful to Rev Stephen and Rev Robert for helping me understand the rhythms and traditions of the church during this early period. 

Page 1 



I have been greatly encouraged by the sense of belonging among members and the willingness of so many to serve. From PCC members, to children’s ministry coordinators, food bank volunteers, coffee morning teams, and those involved in home communion, there is a clear and active commitment to the life and mission of the church. 

It has also been inspiring to learn about those who have served as churchwardens over the years, faithfully taking on this important and sometimes demanding role. I would like to thank Elizabeth as she steps down for her dedicated leadership, and Mark for his support and sacrifice. We are truly grateful for all you have both given to the life of this church. Mark, thank you again for faithfully supporting Elizabeth behind the scenes we recognise that, as a church, we may have borrowed more of your shared time than expected. So today we gladly release her back to you, though perhaps only temporarily. 

Our engagement with the wider community is another great encouragement. The Monday Toddlers group continues to flourish, drawing positive feedback and even families traveling significant distances to attend. 

Our connection with St Anthony's Care Home remains a meaningful and valued ministry. The monthly communion service is warmly received by residents and staff, and it is a privilege to share in that fellowship. 

As we continue together, I pray that we may be strengthened and equipped for all that God is calling us to do: 

"Now may the God of peace equip you with everything good for doing his will… through Jesus Christ." (Hebrews 13:20– 21) 

## _Kudzayi Bvekerwa_ 

_Vicar: St Michael and All Angels, Watford_ 

Page 2 



**CHURCH ACTIVITIES** 

## **Children & Young Families Network** 

Little Micks meets on Monday mornings during term times with between 25 and 35 toddlers plus parents, grandparents and carers. 

This is a multi -ethnic activity with other faiths represented. We aim to offer hospitality and support to young families through play and craft activities. This includes some time in the Lady Chapel for a prayer followed by singing - always well supported. We are very dependent on the faithful support of St Michael's members who contribute to a fun time and happy atmosphere. Their Party Day was a riot of colour and smiles and foods. 

Third Sunday Church is for a small group of children who meet in the choir vestry during the Sung Eucharist for ageappropriate discussion and activity. This requires two adults who have completed the required levels of safeguarding - not always easy to arrange. 

On other Sundays there is an activity table at the back of the church, supervised by a parent or other church member. 

Pizza & Chips takes place in the choir vestry on the last Saturday of the month when the children help prepare and rehearse the prayers and readings for All Age Worship the next day. This includes Bible-based games and opportunities for friendship. 

The Brownies did their bit very well at both the Lent Lunch, waiting on the tables and at the Christmas Fair, selling their jars of sweeties and spending their own money at many of the stalls. 

We welcomed visits from Chater Infants, Laurence Haines and Ascot Road schools at Harvest, Christmas and Lent and we appreciate their interest, involvement and good behaviour. 

## _Gillian Heath_ 

## **Safeguarding** 

Safeguarding has evolved significantly in recent years and will continue to do so. This is driven mainly by new risks arising from the widespread use of the internet and social media—threats that did not exist two decades ago—and by the potential impact of artificial intelligence. At the same time, cultural shifts have led the Church of England to acknowledge past failures and show a growing commitment to learning from them. (safeguardingdashboards.org.uk) 

Safeguarding Sunday, held on November 16th 2025, focused on taking practical steps to create safer church communities, using resources from the Christian charity Thirtyone:eight. We prayed for those affected by abuse and emphasised that safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Father Stephen delivered a powerful address drawn from personal experience, which was deeply appreciated by all in attendance. 

We have currently achieved 94% compliance with mandatory requirements, as shown on the Watford, St Michael and All Angels (LEP) Safeguarding Dashboard – Level 3. This is a positive position, recognising that the dashboard is dynamic and designed to support continuous improvement. We are currently awaiting updated safeguarding documentation following changes in the tenancy arrangements for St Michael’s hall. 

The PCC has fulfilled its duty under Section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 by complying with the House of Bishops’ safeguarding guidance for children and vulnerable adults. Key documents—including “Protecting All God’s Children”, and “Policy for Safeguarding Adults in the Church of England”, are available to anyone on request. 

DBS checks have been completed for those required, and the ongoing Church of England online safeguarding training continues. Please see our Church Safeguarding display board for contact numbers, policies and risk assessments. 

Our aim for 2026/2027 is to strengthen our focus on safeguarding, with ongoing support and guidance from the Diocesan Safeguarding Team, and to keep it a consistent priority. We will continue to meet all mandatory safeguarding requirements and uphold our strong safer recruitment practices for volunteers. 

## _Jane Talbot_ 

## _Parish Safeguarding Officer_ 

Page 3 



## **Music** 

Our two Organists, Tim Hooper and Dave Deegan, display their different styles of playing as they join us on alternate weeks. The choir manages to find a suitable (and easy) anthem most weeks and welcomed Rebecca who joined the sopranos. 

It would be a great pleasure to have more pianists to come in and play, just for pleasure, as it is such a joy to hear. 

The organ is hanging on by a couple of threads but one day we shall have to think about overhaul, repair, and restoration. The last quotation for work to be done, was £40K. No doubt, the next one will be much higher. 

## **Events and Community Life and Special Occasions** 

The Audentior Orchestra performed two concerts for us this year and were well attended. 

We were delighted to once again welcome the Australian groups of actors and singers. Their energy, enthusiasm, and joyful performances were greatly appreciated by all the adults, young people and children who attended. 

## **Gifts and Improvements** 

We were blessed to receive two very special gifts this year. First, a new altar, which was installed in the Lady Chapel and subsequently blessed. Second, a generous donation toward new church lighting, which will be carried out in the New Year. 

## **Good Fun Fund Raisers** 

Our summer fundraiser - the annual quiz - was thoroughly enjoyed and highly successful. 

Likewise, the Christmas Fair, our winter fundraiser, was wonderfully attended by many neighbours, including numerous families whose children participate in Little Micks on Mondays. It was heartening to see the church so full and vibrant. 

In the Autumn we supported the Herts and Beds Historic Churches charity by walking to visit as many as possible churches (19) to raise £500. 

## **Christmas Fair** 

Our annual Christmas Fair was a tremendous success. Thanks to the hard work of all involved, it was a joyful occasion that brought together members of the congregation and the wider community. The fair was filled with festive spirit, and its proceeds go towards supporting our church. We are grateful for the support of everyone who participated, donated, and volunteered. We are especially indebted to Warner Brothers Studio Tours, The Grove, Metropolitan Bushey, Morrisons, Hollywood Bowl and individuals who every year support us by giving raffle prizes. 

## **Carol and Crib Services** 

What a fabulous time of year with the many candles and the children dressing up for their part in the Crib Service! (People had to wait until after all the hustle and bustle of Christmas for the Christingle service.) 

## **Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church** 

The church continues to be used by the St. Gregorios congregation on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. Sharing our church space with the JSOC has been a rewarding experience. We value the friendship between our communities and the work they undertake in church, often unseen. 

## **Special Visitors** 

During the Vacancy we were really lucky to have Bishop Jane Mainwaring, Archdeacon Charles Hudson and Rural Dean Peter Wadell take three of our Sunday morning services which meant that they could see what our congregation is like and how we conduct our service. It also meant that we could see the people who were in charge of the appointment. We also welcomed Catherine Miller who gave us an amazing insight into her role within USPG and also as a priest. 

We had another visit from Wesley College Drama group who presented two fantastically lively plays in church. The first was a presentation to children from St Anthony’s School which was based on the story of Snow White. The second was ‘The Artful’ to which our friends and neighbours were invited and who were very appreciative of the standard and abilities of the players and singers of this group of students. With both plays the costumes and props were minimal but the energy was outstanding. 

Page 4 



**OUR CORE PURPOSES** 

## **Aims and Purposes** 

St Michael and All Angels PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the clergy in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral evangelical, social and ecumenical. It also has responsibilities for oversight of the leases given to the properties owned by the church, together with the Diocese of St Albans, namely 57 Whippendell Road, Littlebury Hall and St. Michael’s Hall. 

## **Objectives and activities** 

The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our Church and become part of our parish community at St Michael's. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. Activities for the year have been undertaken in the light of the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. 

We seek to enable members of the community to engage with the Christian faith through: 

Worship, prayer and study, Provision of pastoral care, Missionary and outreach work, Support of local organisations. 

The Church building at St Michael's and the ancillary buildings are the essential resources for this work to take place, although the ability to livestream services and use the internet in various ways has been very important in 2025. 

## **Annual Parish Meeting and Wardenship** 

For the first time, our Parish Meeting and APCM were held after the Sunday service. Valerie Blacklock announced that she would not stand again for Churchwarden and was warmly thanked for her unwavering commitment and dedicated service to St Michael’s. Elizabeth Watkin also shared that this would be her final year. After the formal proceedings, it was a pleasure to enjoy a meal together. 

## **Safeguarding** 

Safeguarding remains of utmost importance in all that we do. We are especially fortunate to have Jane Talbot as our Safeguarding Officer. She ensures we all remain up-to-date, informed and compliant with our responsibilities. 

## **Streaming Services** 

In response to the ongoing needs of our congregation and community, we have continued to stream our church services. This digital platform has allowed us to stay connected with those unable to attend in person, especially during times when mobility or health concerns prevent physical attendance. We are pleased that technology has allowed us to maintain a spiritual presence in the lives of many. 

Page 5 



**PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **Membership** 

Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During the year the following served as members of the PCC: 

## **Ex-officio members** 

Incumbent Vacancy Assistant Priest The Revd Stephen Mepham (Associate Priest) Churchwardens Mrs Elizabeth Watkin Mrs Valerie Blacklock (until May 2025) Deanery Synod Representatives Mrs Valerie Blacklock Mr Mark Simon (until May 2025) Mr Philip Gough (from May 2025) 

## **Elected Members** 

To serve to 2026 Mrs Sylvia Moring (retired), Mr Andrew Kiddle(Co-opted), Mrs Jane Talbot, Mrs Gillian Heath, Mrs Julie Bye 

To serve to 2027 Mr Paul Chandler, Mr Duncan Turton, Mr Steve Birch To serve to 2028 Mr Simon Fowle, Cllr Mark Watkin 

## **Non-trustee officers appointed by PCC** 

Honorary Treasurer Mr Duncan Turton Electoral Roll Officer Mr Simon Fowle Safeguarding Officer Mrs Jane Talbot Data Controller Vacant PCC Secretary Mr Simon Fowle Annual Report Compilation Mrs Julie Bye and Mr Stephen Bye 

## **Non-trustee advisors appointed by PCC** 

Insurance Advisor Mr Duncan Turton 

Page 6 



**PCC COMMITTEES** 

## **Committees** 

The PCC operates through a number of committees, which meet between full meetings of the PCC. The committees have continued to function during 2025 

## **Standing Committee:** 

This is the only committee required by law. It has the power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council. The Wardens, the Secretary and the Treasurer constitute the Standing Committee. 

## **Finance Committee (up to June 4[th] 2025):** 

Oversees the financial dimension of the work of St. Michael and All Angels by monitoring income and expenditure, budgeting, and initiating and authorising fundraising activities. 

(A fuller set of terms of reference for the Finance Committee is available on request.) 

## **Estates Committee (up to June 4[th] 2025):** 

Attends to matters relating to the fabric of the church, halls, grounds and 57 Whippendell Road and oversees the management of Littlebury Hall, 57 Whippendell Road and St Michael's Hall. 

## **Finance and Estates Committee (from June 4[th] 2025):** 

At the PCC meeting on 4[th] June 2025 it was noted that the membership and agendas of the Finance and Estates Committees overlapped to such an extent that it would seem more practical to merge the two committees together. 

## **Mission Committee:** 

Supports the life and mission of the worldwide Church through prayer, publicity, events and visiting speakers. It also makes recommendations to the PCC for the annual allocation of mission & charitable giving. 

## **Social Committee:** 

The committee organises events to engage with our local community and organisations associated with St. Michael and All Angels. It manages the catering for parish functions and supports other activities where appropriate. 

## **Children and Young Families Network:** 

Promotes the understanding of our Christian faith among young people in the age group 0 – 18 years. 

Page 7 



**COMMITTEE REPORTS** 

## **Estates Committee** 

When we have rain 'from the wrong direction' it is not unusual to have water dripping inside the church; the difficulty is finding where the water got in. A new downpipe at the south-eastern corner was put in place and this stopped the water ingress which was seeping into the Vicar's vestry. We have used two Roofers who have helped by finding loose slates but, unfortunately both of them have retired. 

We engaged a company to check the three lightning conductors. The two on the church were passed but the one on St Michaels Hall was not. A quotation for repair, plus scaffolding, was in excess of £40K. A new quotation is being sought. 

The Quinquennial Inspection is due in 2026 but we have not made a decision about who should be the surveyor. 

The reduction of the crown of the oak tree on Mildred Avenue has been scheduled for Spring 2026. 

The heating system was reviewed at the end of the year and it was agreed that we should not invest in any additional, and expensive, heating at this time. 

At the end of the year there was the first instalment of new lighting thanks to a donation for this work. 

During the Vacancy we looked after the Vicarage and took the opportunity to have the gardens trimmed and the hedge cut back. We were instructed by the Diocesan Office that they would allow a company to operate short-term tenants to occupy the Vicarage over winter. They would act as caretakers thus keeping the building warm and trespassers out. This worked well. 

## **Property Matters** 

We were saddened by the departure of our excellent tenants at No. 57, but were grateful that the property manager agreed to take over the lettings directly. This transition was handled smoothly and has provided us with a positive commercial rate of income. Toward the end of the year, we were informed of further potential changes to the premises, which we will address in the coming year. 

As the lease for the MCCC over St Michael's Hall had expired we sought guidance from our solicitors with the intention of improving the terms of the lease for the benefit of the church or to seek alternative lessees. There have been issues and holdups and expenses that have required a very considerable amount of time and attention. Our hope is that we will receive a higher income and have more groups from the wider community using this building. We are deeply grateful to Valerie Blacklock for her patience and perseverance in taking this forward; thank you so much. 

## **Finance and Estates Committee** 

At the PCC meeting on 4[th] June 2025 it was noted that the membership and agendas of the Finance and Estates Committees overlapped to such an extent that it would seem more practical to merge the two committees together. 

The first joint meeting was held on 18[th] June 2025 and subsequent meetings were two-monthly, usually a week before the corresponding PCC meeting. 

The activity and discussions of the finance element of the committee are reflected in the Treasurer's report. 

## **Mission Committee** 

Our focus at St Michael’s this year has been largely on nurturing our outreach ministries of service and hospitality, notably through the Wednesday Food Bank and Little Micks Toddlers’ Church on Monday mornings. 

We have maintained our support under Mission & Charitable Giving of the following agencies 

The Trussell Trust 

Watford Town Centre Chaplaincy Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Society Mission Aviation Fellowship Alzheimer’s Society United Society Partners in the Gospel 

(details of our financial support appear elsewhere in the Annual Report) 

Page 8 



Apart from supporting these agencies financially we have tried to maintain up to date publicity, often with prayer material, and each has been regularly prayed for in the Sunday intercessions. 

In September we were pleased to welcome a speaker from USPG and we hope to invite speakers on a regular basis. 

The PCC has agreed that the Committee’s terms of reference should be revised and this is on the Committee’s agenda. 

## _Gillian Heath_ 

## **Social Committee** 

The social committee is charged with providing entertainment and fundraising for the church family. We are a small group who welcome suggestions from members of the congregation for events. 

During the year our fundraising events were Lent Lunch, a Quiz and The Christmas Fair. 

The Lent Lunch as usual was a platform for some of The Brownies to work towards their Take Action badge that demonstrates their commitment to Charity, Lending a Hand and Doing a Good Turn. They are a delight to have with us. Their leaders support them and are not averse to helping where necessary for which we are most grateful. All proceeds from this event go to charitable giving. We raised £285 when combined with Norna’s sale and raffle that was donated to Watford Women’s Centre. 

The Quiz raised £840 for church funds. We are indebted to Chris and June Jones who ran the quiz again this year and the companies and individuals who donated raffle prizes. A very enjoyable evening was had by all. 

The Christmas Fair exceeded all expectation this year raising £2124. We received raffle prizes from Warner Bros, The Grove, Wetherspoons, Watford Football Club, Beckenscot Village and Hollywood Bowl. Many thanks to the members of the congregation who donated so generously so we could stock the various sideshows and serve delicious lunches. 

We are most grateful for all the help freely given by members of the congregation to make these events successful and enjoyable. 

## _Valerie Blacklock_ 

Page 9 



**OTHER ACTIVITIES** 

## **Faith Share** 

Faith Share is a group, currently of up to eight members, who meet fortnightly in each other’s homes - to share their faith. 

It began as a Lent Group in 2025 and has continued to meet regularly. Biblically-rooted and non-academic, its aim is to provide a safe space where we can share our faith openly and honestly, with its ups and downs, learning from and affirming each other. 

Definitely user-friendly and new members always welcome! Meetings last for not more than an hour, followed by tea and cake. 

## _Martin Heath_ 

## **Wednesday Morning Coffee** 

Our Wednesday coffee mornings continue to attract a good number of people who enjoy chatting about a myriad of different topics from the sublime to the ridiculous. If you are intrigued do join us. Sometimes we have people wanting to have a look inside our beautiful church, other times we have people in need of comfort or advice. Whatever their reason for entering everyone is given a warm welcome and despite no Pastoral Team member being present since October appropriate help is offered. 

## **Food Bank** 

This service is a vital lifeline for many people within our community. We operate a distribution centre for Watford Foodbank, The Trussell Trust, and it is not unusual to have 10 or so people on a busy day. We are so pleased that Ed joined the team and is the administrator ably supported by Ruth, Valerie, and Francoise. More helpers would be very welcome, especially at the opening time as a safeguarding measure for our clients and for us. As an additional service we are able to give out toiletries, e.g. detergent, toilet rolls and sanitary products that have generously been given by members of the congregation; a big thank you to everyone who has contributed, especially when a last minute plea has gone out. 

## **Deanery Synod** 

Over the past year, the Deanery Synod has continued to play an important role in supporting the mission and ministry of parishes within the Church of England at a local level. We have attended meetings and contributed to discussions on a range of issues affecting both our deanery and the wider Church. 

Synod meetings have included updates from the Diocese and General Synod, helping parishes stay informed about developments across the Church of England. Key areas of focus this year at the meetings we have been able to attend included: 

**Parish Finance and Parish Share:** Addressing ongoing financial pressures and promoting stewardship and generosity. There was an update on Diocesan finances before a presentation to explain the mechanism of calculation of Parish Share followed by a lively debate. Our Parish Share remains as before albeit with a small reduction during the vacancy. 

**Listening and responding:** This exercise was used to find out the different priorities that participants see within their local community, church and their own faith. 

The Deanery Synod continues to provide a valuable forum for collaboration, enabling parishes to share experiences, resources, and encouragement. Joint services, training opportunities, and mission initiatives have helped to strengthen relationships across the deanery. 

Anyone wishing to see the minutes of the meetings please contact Valerie although they do tend to be sparse! 

Please continue to pray for the work of the Deanery Synod, for our clergy and lay leaders, and for the ongoing mission of the Church of England in our communities. 

2026 sees the start of a new 3-year cycle for representatives so if anyone wishes to become a rep please speak to Simon for a nomination form. There are 4 meetings each year in various locations around the deanery. PCC membership is automatic for each representative. _Valerie Blacklock and Phil Gough, Deanery Synod Representatives._ 

Page 10 



**MISSION ACTION PLAN** 

## **1. Introduction** 

Our Diocese of St Albans encourages us in mission through Living God's Love, attending to the three areas of: Going Deeper into God 

- Making New Disciples 

Transforming Communities 

The practical method we are encouraged to use is Mission Action Planning, in which practical and achievable goals are set out. The proposals are, in the main, moving forward with work we already do, and aiming to involve more people in it. The plan is one which can involve a wide range of members of the congregation. Members of St Michael's are encouraged to think and pray deeply about the plan, and how they can give their support. 

## **2. The Mission Action Plan** 

2.1 To encourage younger members and families in their faith journeys through First Sunday Worship, Children’s Church, Little Mick’s, and liaison with local schools. 

## 2.2 To work towards becoming a “Dementia Friendly Church”. 

2.3 To work towards Eco Church status and become more environmentally conscious in our decision making. 

2.4 to encourage Church members to realise their own ministries. 

2.5 To work towards a wider and more inclusive involvement by church members in the life of St Michaels – in worship, ministry, the PCC and its committees. 

2.6 To provide new opportunities for growth in Christian understanding and spirituality by finding and developing opportunities for study and nurture groups. 

2.7 To extend our commitment to community and neighbourhood relations. 

2.8 To engage with the wider Christian community in Watford. 

2.9 To encourage greater support for local mission. 

2.10 To encourage deeper knowledge and engagement with the world beyond itself. 

2.11 To develop our use of livestreaming to enable worship for people unable to come to Church. 

2.12 To develop our website and social media presence as means of reaching out to people living in our Parish but in areas far away from the Church. 

This plan continued through 2025 and is referred to as a guide for work-in-progress. 

Page 11 



**ELECTORAL ROLL** 

After the complete revision of the Electoral Roll in May 2025 there were 68 on the Roll, as certified to the Diocese. The 68 comprised 45 Residents and 23 non-Residents. 

During the year we gained one new member but we also lost six so, as at 31[st] December 2025, the Roll had reduced to 63, of which 46 were Resident and 17 non-Resident. 

The Roll will be open for new applications and revision from 12[th] April 2026, closing on 3[rd] May 2026. It will then re-open after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 17[th] May 2026. 

_Simon Fowle Parish Electoral Roll Officer_ 

Page 12 



**ACCOUNTING POLICIES** 

Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels, Watford (Charity Commission Registration Number 1132010). 

## **Introduction** 

The Parochial Church Council presents the Report and accounts of St Michael and All angels, Watford for the year ended 31 December 2025. 

## **Notes to the Accounts** 

1. Accounting Policies 

## (a) Basis of Accounting 

These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with applicable Accounting Standards and in Accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) for Accounting by charities. 

## (b) Planned Giving and Tax Recoverable 

These have been treated as Income when actually received. 

## (c) Depreciation 

Equipment, fixture and fittings are depreciated at between 15% and 25% per annum on a straight line basis. From 1 January 2013, assets have been capitalised only when the initial cost exceeds £3,000. 

Page 13 



**TREASURER'S REPORT** 

Our overall funds have increased during 2025 to £88,890 from £86,172 in 2024. Total incoming funds were £93,003. That is a slight decrease on the 2024 figure of £94,882. 

Our main sources of regular income were: 

1. Rental income (St Michael’s Hall, Littlebury Hall, and the Curate’s House) - £51,755 (2024: £50,734). This is now more than half our total income. 

2. Giving by Church Members and supporters (including Tax Repaid under Gift Aid) £32,278 – (2024: £34,526). This accounts for just over a third of income. 

Our total expenditure (“Resources used”), was £89,752 (2024: £98,176). The main reason for this fall was that our Parish Share was reduced whilst the church was in vacancy. The 2026 Parish Share payment will revert to normal levels. Our biggest item of expenditure remains the Parish Share which was slightly over 50% of outgoings. 

We had bank and deposit balances of £55,798 at 31st December 2025 

## **The Future** 

For some years I have said that 2026 will be the time I step down as Treasurer. Well, I’m afraid you are stuck with me for a bit longer! 

It is well-known that we have made strenuous and indeed expensive efforts to maximise our resources. After many years of hard work on the part of many, that work should now come to completion. We are in a position to say that we really do anticipate market rates on our buildings. Perhaps it has not always been clear why we have done so. The fact is that were PCC ever to ask the Diocese for money the first thing they would have said in reply would be that we need to maximise our own resources. We are now doing so - not in the interest simply of PCC but in the interests of the strength of the church as a whole. 

So what now? I am reminded of my own favourite passage in the Bible – 2Kings5. It’s not one of the better-known passages of the Bible. It should be. In about a page and a half it has everything – captured slave girls, acts of tremendous faith, miracles and a shock twist ending. 

It tells the story of Naaman’s healing by Elisha and the bad faith of Geheze. After healing Naaman’s leprosy Elisha refuses the offer of money and gifts instead asking Naaman to return to Syria, keep worshipping God and find more members for the church. Well, I assume that Elisha would have had to pay his bills somehow. But I think that a really understated part of 2Kings5 is that Elisha sees value in the bigger church beyond his own wealth. Likewise PCC is not about money for the sake of it, it is about a stronger church in Watford and also the wider area now and for those who follow us. 

Any church evolves – for example for some time now our work with children has meant that more people are now in our Church on a Monday than a Sunday. The best thing now for our money is to grow our church. 

_Duncan Turton Treasurer_ 

Page 14 



**BALANCE SHEET** 

||**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||
||||2025|2024|
||**Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2025**|Note|£|£|
||||||
||**Fixed Assets**||||
||||||
||Tangible Fixed Assets||||
||Equipment,fixtures and fittings|3d and 8|0|0|
||Functional freeholdproperty- Curate's House||||
||57 Whippendell Road Watford(at cost)|4a|12,575|12,575|
||LittleburyHall,Mildred Avenue,Watford(at cost)|4a|5,065|5,065|
||St Michael's Hall,Durban Road,Watford(cost not known)||||
||||||
||Investment Assets|4c|14,818|15,351|
||||**32,458**|**32,991**|
||||||
||**Current Assets**||||
||Debtors and Prepayments||634|927|
||Short Term Deposits||42,158|40,333|
||Cash at Bank and at Hand||13,640|11,921|
||||**56,432**|**53,181**|
||||||
||SundryCreditors and Accruals||0|0|
||**Liabilities Sundry Creditors and Accruals**||**0**|**0**|
||||||
||**Net Current Assets**||56,432|53,181|
||||||
||**Net Assets**|11|**88,890**|**86,172**|
||||||
||**Funds**||||
||**Unrestricted**||||
||General Funds||83,060|79,794|
||Major Works Fund||1,087|1,651|
||Flower Fund||361|361|
||Vicar/Churchwarden's EmergencyFund||916|916|
||Organ Fund||245|245|
||||**85,669**|**82,968**|
||||||
||**Restricted**||||
||Major Works Fund||642|642|
||General Fund||2,579|2,562|
||||**3,221**|**3,204**|
||||||
||||**88.890**|**86,172**|
||||||
||Approved bythe Parochial Church Council on__ _____2026||||
||||||
||Signed||||
||||||
||||||
||Mrs E Watkin,Churchwarden||||



Page 15 



**FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES** 

## **Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford** 

## **Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2025** 

|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||||
|**Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2025**||||||||
|||||||||
|||Note|Unrestricted|||2025|2024|
||||General<br>Funds|Designated<br>Funds|Restricted<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|
|||||||||
||**Incoming Resources**|||||||
|||||||||
||IncomingResources from Donors|2a|32,278|0|0|32,278|34,526|
||Other Voluntary Incoming<br>Resources|2b|4,866|0|0|4,866|4,371|
||Income from charitable and<br>ancillarytrading|2c|53,435|0|0|53,435|53,253|
||Other ordinaryincomingresources|2d|0|0|0|0|0|
||Income from investments|2e|2,424|0|0|2,424|2,732|
||Vicar and Churchwardens fund|2e|0|0|0|0|0|
||**Total Incoming Resources**||**93,003**|**0**|**0**|**93,003**|**94,882**|
|||||||||
||**Resources Used**|||||||
|||||||||
||Grants|3a|2,660|0|0|2,660|0|
||Activities Directly relating to the<br>work of the church|3b|74,078|0|0|74,078|85,208|
||GeneratingFunds and Publicity|3c|1,099|0|0|1,099|0|
||Church Management and<br>administration|3d|11,915|0|0|11,915|12,968|
||**Total Resources Used**||**89,752**|**0**|**0**|**89,752**|**98,176**|
|||||||||
||Net IncomingResources||**3,251**|**0**|**0**|**3,251**|**(3,294)**|
|||||||||
||Unrealised Gains/(losses) on<br>investments||14|(564)|17|(533)|352|
||Net Movements in Investments||**14**|**(564)**|**17**|**(533)**|**352**|
|||||||||
||Net Movements in Funds||3,265|(564)|17|2,718|(2,942)|
|||||||||
||Balances Carried Forward at<br>31/12/24||79,794|3,174|3,204|86,173|89,115|
|||||||||
||**Balances Carried Forward at**<br>**31/12/25**||**83,060**|**2,610**|**3,221**|**88,891**|**86,173**|



Page 16 



**FINANCIAL NOTES** 

## **Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford** 

## **Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025** 

|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||||||
|**Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025**|||||||||
||||||||||
||||Note|Unrestricted|Unrestricted||2025|2024|
|||||General<br>Funds|Designated<br>Funds|Restricted<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|
|||**Incoming Resources**|||||||
|2a||**Incoming Resources from**<br>**donors**|||||||
|||Planned Giving and collections at<br>services||19,923|||19,923|25,694|
|||Tax Recovered(Gift Aid)||5,253|||5,253|6,756|
|||Missions/charitablegiving||0|||0|0|
|||Grants towards Quinquennial<br>repair costs||0|||0|0|
|||Grant towards War Memorial<br>refurbishment||0|||0|0|
|||Donations - General||7,102||0|7,102|2,076|
|||Donations – Flower Fund||0|0||0|0|
|||||**32,278**|**0**|**0**|**32,278**|**34,526**|
||||||||||
|2b||**Other Voluntary incoming**<br>**Resources**|||||||
|||Legacies|6|1,000|||1,000|502|
|||Fair, Market and other fund<br>raising||3,866|||3,866|3,869|
|||||**4,866**|**0**|**0**|**4,866**|**4,371**|
||||||||||
|2c||**Income from Charitable and**<br>**ancillary trading**|||||||
|||Sword Magazine||0|||0|0|
|||Rental Income from Curate's<br>House|7|23,546|||23,546|24,023|
|||Funeral and WeddingFees||523|||523|2,439|
|||Church Hire Fees||4,804|||4,804|4,141|
|||LittleburyHall – Lettings||12,872|||12,872|12,070|
|||St Michael's Rent||10,500|||10,500|10,500|
|||Other income – sale of assets||1,190|||1,190|80|
|||||**53,435**|**0**|**0**|**53,435**|**53,253**|
||||||||||
|2d||**Other Ordinary Incoming**<br>**Resources**|||||||
|||Insurance Claims||0|||0|0|
|||Recoverable VAT||0|||0|0|
|||||**0**|**0**|**0**|**0**|**0**|
||||||||||
|2e||**Income from investments**|||||||
|||Church||2,424||0|2,424|2,732|
|||Vicar/Churchwardens Fund||0|||0|0|
|||||**2,424**|**0**|**0**|**2,424**|**2,732**|
||||||||||
|||**Total Incoming Resources**||**93,003**|**0**|**0**|**93,003**|**94,882**|



Page 17 



## **Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford** 

## **Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025 (Continued)** 

|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||||||
|**Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025 (Continued)**|||||||||
||||||||||
|||**Resources Used**|Note|Unrestricted|Unrestricted||2025|2024|
|||||General<br>Funds|Designated<br>Funds|Restricted<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|
||||||||||
|3a||**Grants**|||||||
|||Missions at home and abroad and<br>charitablegiving||2,660|||2,660|0|
|||||**2,660**|**0**|**0**|**2,660**|**0**|
||||||||||
|3b||**Activities directly relating to the**<br>**work of the church:**|||||||
|||MinistryDiocesanQuota||45,572|||45,572|51,022|
|||MinistryClergyExpenses||1,018|||1,018|1,027|
|||Curate house expenses||1,116|||1,116|852|
|||Church Running Expenses inc<br>Cleaning||12,785|||12,785|14,447|
|||Insurance – Church||6,120|||6,120|5,545|
|||Repairs and Maintenance||1,509|||1,509|1,655|
|||Music||3,001|||3,001|2,744|
|||SanctuaryExpenses||412|||412|1,275|
|||Children's Church and Youth work||269|||269|299|
|||Purchase of flowers||0|0||0|0|
|||LittleburyHall expenses||583|||583|2,832|
|||Sword Magazine, Messenger and<br>See Round||0|||0|0|
|||Organ repairs||503|||503|487|
|||Major Church Repairs:<br>Quinquennial||0|||0|420|
|||Costs of War Memorial||0|||0|0|
|||Church GardeningExpenses||1,190|||1,190|1,410|
|||Parochial Fees Payable to DBF||0|||0|1,193|
|||||**74,078**|**0**|**0**||**85,208**|
||||||||||
|3c||**Generating Funds and Publicity**||1,099|||1,099|0|
|||||**1,099**|**0**|**0**|**1,099**|**0**|
||||||||||
|3d||**Church management and admin**|||||||
|||Printing, copying and stationery<br>inc. maintenance of copier||179|||179|2,198|
|||General expenses||11,736|||11,736|10,770|
|||Depreciation||0||0|0|0|
|||||**11,915**|**0**|**0**|**11,915**|**12,968**|
||||||||||
|||**Total Resources Used**||**89,752**|**0**|**0**|**89,752**|**98,176**|
||||||||||



Page 18 



**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford** 

|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|**Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Watford**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||||||
||**Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025 (Continued)**||||||||
|||||Unrestricted|Unrestricted||2025|2024|
|||||General Funds|Designated Funds|Restricted Funds|Total<br>Funds|Total<br>Funds|
||||||||||
||4|Fixed Assets for use by<br>the PCC|||||||
||||||||||
||4a|Tangible Assets|||||||
|||Tangible Fixed Assets<br>at Cost||17,640|||17,640|17,640|
|||Functional freehold<br>properties|||||||
|||It is not considered<br>appropriate to make a<br>provision for these<br>assets|||||||
||||||||||
||4b|Equipment, Fixtures<br>and fittings||0|||0|0|
|||See note 8||**17,640**|**0**|**0**|**17,640**|**17,640**|
||||||||||
||4c|The investments<br>comprise the following:||375 CBF Fixed<br>Interest Securities<br>Fund – Income<br>shares|610 CBF<br>Investment Fund<br>Income Shares|461 CBF Fixed<br>Interest Securities<br>Fund – Income<br>Shares|||
||||||||||
|||||General|Designated|Restricted|Total|Total|
|||Investments (value at<br>31/12/25)||573|13,541|704|14,818|15,351|
||||||||||



Page 19 



|5||**Remuneration and Expenses**||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||**Members of the Church Council/Connected Persons:**||||
|||Zeropayment in 2025.||||
|||||||
|6||**Legacies pending**||||
|||No legaciespending.||||
|||||||
|7||**57 Whippendell Road**||||
|||The property has been, since February 2022, let out at a commercial rate. There<br>are no arrears as atyear end 2025.||||
|||||||
|8||**Equipment Fixtures and Fittings**||||
|||Net Balance 1/1/2025||0||
|||Additions||0||
|||Depreciation||-||
|||Net Balance 31/12/2025||0||
|||||||
|9||**Contingent Liability**||||
|||There are no contingent liabilities||||
|||||||
|10||**Insurance**||||
|||Properties are insured on a replacement basis for the sums indicated – the sums<br>relate to the 2025 insurancepolicies:||||
|||St Michael's Church,Mildred Avenue/Durban Road,Watford|||£21,210,000.00|
|||LittleburyHall,Mildred Avenue,Watford|||£479,099.00|
|||57 Whippendell Road,Watford|||£454,099.00|
|||St Michael's Hall,Durban Road|||£635,993.00|
|||||||
|11||**Analysis of Net Assets**||||
|||Fixed Assets||||
|||Properties||17,640||
|||Investments||14,818||
|||Equipment,fixtures and fittings||0||
|||Current Assets||56,432||
|||||88,890||
|||Less||||
|||Current Liabilities||-||
|||Net Assets||88.890||
|||||||



Page 20 



## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT** 

The report of the Independent Examiner to the Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels, Watford (Charity Number 1132010). 

I report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2025, which are set out on the following pages. 

## **Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the examiner** 

The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed. 

It is my responsibility to: 

   - examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act, 

- to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 

- 145(5)(b)) of the Charities Act, and 

to state whether particular matters have come to my attention. 

## **Basis of this report** 

My examination was carried out in accordance with 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 the 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 gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements 

   - a. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Act; and 

- b. to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the requirements of the 

- Act and the Regulations have not been met; or 

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

Ms Karen Pryse Croxley, Herts. March 2026 

Page 21