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2025-12-31-accounts

Parish of GREAT BURSTEAD with RAMSDEN CRAYS

Sunday 31st May 2026 at Great Burstead Church after the 9.30am service.

AGENDA ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS

Opening prayer

  1. Welcome and apologies for absence.

  2. Approval of Minutes of previous meeting held on 27[th] May 2025.(see page 2)

  3. Election of Churchwardens

  4. Closure of Annual Meeting of Parishioners

___________

CONTINUATION OF ADJOURNED ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING of 19th MAY 2024

  1. To receive the Audited Financial Accounts and Statements for year ended 31.12.23. 2. Closure of meeting.

CONTINUATION OF ADJOURNED ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING of 27th MAY 2025

1. To receive the Audited Financial Accounts and Statements for year ended 31.12.24. 2. Closure of meeting.

_________________

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING (31.05.26)

....................................... continued..........................

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Closing Prayer ____________

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (AMP) held on Tuesday 27[th] May 2025 at 19.30 hours.

Present: Fr. Michael Hall (Chair) and 15 other parishioners.

Action
1 Welcomeand opening prayer from Fr. Michael Hall.
2 Apologies for absenceNigel & Caroline Blore, Pat Davis, Emma Glackin,
Martyn & Kathy Heald, Alison Ingleby, Jeanne Wiggins and Joy Woods.
3 Approval of Minutes of previous meeting held on 19th May 2024.
These Minutes had been previously circulated and were proposed as a true
record by Carol Simons and seconded by Colin Heywood and agreed by
those present.
4 Election of Churchwardens
Only two nominations had been received prior to the start of this meeting:-
Fola Olukoya –Proposed by Peter Furness /Seconded by Colin Heywood.
Nigel Blore –Proposed by Mary Edwards / Seconded by Mary Latham.
There being no other nominations, Fola and Nigel were duly appointed as
our Churchwardens for the forthcoming year. Fr. Michael thanked Fola for
his past work and said that he was pleased that both Nigel and Fola had
decided to serve a further term as Churchwardens.

The meeting closed at 19.35 hours.

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Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) held on Tuesday 27[th] May 2025 at 19.35 hours.

Present: Fr. Michael Hall (chair) and 15 other parishioners.

Action
1 Welcome –Those present were welcomed to this meeting by Fr. Michael.
Apologies for absence were received from Nigel & Caroline Blore, Pat Davis,
Emma Glackin, Martyn & Kathy Heald, Alison Ingleby, Jeanne Wiggins and
Joy Woods.
2 Notification of any items to be included under AOB –none
3 Approval of Minutes for previous APCM held on 19th May 2024.These
were proposed by Mary Latham and seconded by Dean Glackin and
accepted by those in attendance.
4 Matters arising from the Minutes of the previous APCM-none
5 Appointment of Tellers –Norman Maxwell and Mary Edwards volunteered
in case of need.
6 Churchwardens’ Report– This was circulated prior to the meeting. Fola
introduced the report and spoke of the many issues that arose in 2024 and of
the challenges that were continuing to be addressed this year. He also spoke
on behalf of Nigel in saying how grateful they were in receiving support from
the PCC and from the congregation in general. Fr. Michael expressed his
thanks for all that the Churchwardens had achieved..
7 Annual Report of the PCC– Again, this report was circulated prior to the
meeting and there were no queries or requests for clarification from the floor.
Peter Furness was thanked for his work in compiling the report.
8 Electoral Roll Officer’s report– Fola Olukoya advised that the newly
constructed Roll had a total of 40 names (66 in 2024) of which 14 (35%)
were resident in the Parish and 26 (65%) were non-resident. Because the
total had fallen below 50, this reduced our entitlement of elected lay
representation on the PCC from 9 to 6. Fola pointed out that the Roll had
not closed and that further names can be added after this meeting. Those
from the last Roll and who had not registered for the new Roll will be
contacted and invited to join. Fr. Michael thanked Fola for his work.
9 Election of Parochial Church Council (PCC) members.Although this
meeting started on the presumption that no additions to the PCC could be
accepted (see item 8 above) Mary Lazarus graciously stepped down to allow
someone more able as her eyesight was currently troublesome. Dean
Glackin also stepped down as his eligibility was now questionable as he
failed to register on the new Electoral Roll. This now created two vacancies
and the only two nominations from the floor were accepted – namely:-
Carol Simons –proposed by Jo Hall / Seconded by Brenda Munns.
Carole Heywood-proposed by Fola Olukoya / Seconded by Mary Edwards.
10 Election of Churches Together in Billericay Deputy Representatives.
Both Margaret Flack and Mary Lazarus offered to continue to represent our
interests as and when needed and they were accepted by all present.
.................continued...............

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11 Treasurer’s Report and Accounts
Mary Edwards reported with regret that she had again not managed to
provide audited accounts due to technical issues relating to her computers.
She mentioned that the value of our investments had suffered in 2023 due to
usual market volatility, but had fully recovered in 2024. We had received
several legacies in 2024 and two more had been received this year. Mary
mentioned that the finances were now in a reasonable state because of a
significant reduction in our Parish Share due to this cost now being shared
with Laindon Parish, but potential liabilities remain, not least because of the
liability of an Oak Tree in Ramsden Crays’ Burial Ground that is damaging
the foundations of the old church building that had been sold off. Mary was
not able to quantify her remarks with any reference to sums involved. Mary
stated that after 21 years as Treasurer that she was resigning, but would
continue to end of next month to help with a handover. Fr. Michael paid a
warm tribute to Mary for her extraordinary length of duty as Treasurer and in
service to our Church and Parish. This was spontaneously acknowledged by
applause from all present.
12 Appointment of Independent Examiner
As our Independent Examiner has not yet been contacted, this item will
remain unresolved for the time being.
13 Basildon Deanery Synod Report
This was circulated before the meeting and its content noted. There were no
questions and Peter Furness was thanked for his report.
14 Reports of Church and community activitieswere all circulated prior to
the meeting and after a pause to allow for further reading, there were no
immediate comments raised from the floor.
15 AOB– no items were submitted.
16 Vicar’s report– Fr Michael referred to his written report that had been
circulated prior to the meeting and wished to emphasise his thanks to all who
had contributed to the work of our Church and for their prayers and support
to him during the last year which had seen a huge change in his working
routine in having the extra responsibility for the Parish of St. Nicholas,
Laindon. However, he thought that the new arrangement was working well
and he thanked Revd. Karen White for her great support in the provision of
this shared ministry.
Fr. Michael adjourned the meeting with a prayer and the saying of The Grace
at 19.55 hours.

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Churchwardens’ Report for year ended 31st December 2025

The following is a brief summary of the principal events of 2025:

The lack of financial accounts for 2023 and 2024 has prevented us from applying for grants or being able to gauge an accurate financial position, so there has been no progress on the repairs to the tower and spire. Hopefully, once the accounts are available, we can start to move this forward.

Cracks have again appeared in the north east buttress, probably due to the exceptionally dry summer in 2025. These will require attention if they do not shrink after the winter.

The oak tree at St Mary's Ramsden Crays was pruned in December 2025 at the request of the insurers of the building and after extended discussions with appropriate experts, it is expected that insurers will now handle any claim from the purchaser for damage to the building that was proven to have been caused by roots from the tree. The tree is likely to require periodic pruning to prevent any recurrence of the alleged damage by its roots to the church building.

A new rope has been attached to the bell, which allows it to be rung for services and during communion.

The chairs at the back of the church have been reupholstered thanks to a generous donation.

Cushions have been placed in the pews and choir stalls, again thanks to generous donations.

Derek Oakley has handed over primary responsibility for maintaining the church grounds to Paul Butterworth after many years. He will continue to support Paul when he can. We thank them both for keeping the grounds in such lovely condition.

The quinquennial inspection of the fabric of the church is due in 2026.

Fola Olukoya and Nigel Blore Churchwardens.

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Annual Report of the Great Burstead with Ramsden Crays PCC for the year ending 31 December 2025

The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the Incumbent, Fr Michael Hall, in providing for this parish the whole mission of the Church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. We are grateful for all that Fr Michael has given to the life and ministry of the parish, and we have also valued the willing and able assistance of the Revd. Karen White in the shared ministry with St Nicholas’, Laindon. The Revd. Peter Clark, a retired priest whose involvement with our services was very much appreciated, has unfortunately been unable to participate this year due to ill health.

The PCC also has maintenance responsibilities for the church and church hall at Great Burstead, as well as the burial ground at Ramsden Crays where interments continue. The churchyard at Great Burstead is closed for burials and its upkeep and maintenance are the responsibility of the local authority, although volunteers continue to care for the grounds immediately surrounding the church. We remain deeply grateful to this small team who keep the area in excellent order. Derek Oakley, who ably managed this team for many years, has now stepped down from this leadership role. We are most thankful for his dedicated service and for the continued efforts of all the volunteers, which are much appreciated by residents and visitors alike.

Safeguarding; the protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults, continues to be given high priority. Our policy and its implementation are reviewed at every PCC meeting. Dean Glackin has served as our Parish Safeguarding Officer since 2023. He has undertaken the required training and brings valued commitment and diligence to this role. The PCC is grateful for his continued service.

In early July a Community Fete was held in partnership with the Great Burstead and South Green Village Council, who generously funded the entertainment costs. It was a successful event and raised over £2,500 for the Church. Our thanks are due to Alison Ingleby for liaising with the Village Council and for organising and overseeing the activities on the day. Alison has provided a more detailed report which is circulated with this and other reports.

In last year’s report reference was made to the diocesan restructuring which brought this parish and St Nicholas, Laindon under the care of Fr Michael from 1 October 2024. This shared arrangement has continued to work smoothly, with little visible impact on congregational life. However, the breadth of ministry across two parishes is significant. During the coming year the PCC will reflect on how pastoral care and mission can best be supported through increased lay involvement, training and shared responsibility.

Following the APCM in May, the PCC welcomed Brenda Munns as our new Treasurer and is grateful for her considerable efforts in taking on this demanding role, particularly in light of the handover difficulties caused by the ill health of her predecessor. It has been a matter of concern that the accounts for 2023 and 2024 were not finalised in time for independent examination and submission within the prescribed timescales. The PCC is thankful for the support being provided by the Diocese in bringing these accounts up to date.

The PCC was also grateful to Jo Hall for offering to serve as Church Hall Administrator. In a relatively short period of time, Jo has worked hard to ensure that the Hall is safe, compliant and welcoming for the children who are cared for there, before and after school.

.......................... continued........................... The PCC

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Members of the PCC are either ex-officio, elected, or co-opted, in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. The PCC usually meets six times a year. A list of its members for 2025 appears below.

Ex-officio Members

Revd Michael Hall – Vicar and Chair of the PCC Revd Karen White – Associate Priest (from 01.10.24) Nigel Blore – Vice-Chair of PCC, Churchwarden and member of Deanery Synod Fola Olukoya – Churchwarden and Electoral Roll Officer Mary Edwards – Member of Diocesan Synod Peter Furness – PCC Secretary and member of Deanery Synod Elected Members of the PCC during 2025

Caroline Blore Dean Glackin (up to 27.05.25) and Parish Safeguarding Officer. Emma Glackin Carole Heywood Colin Heywood Mary Lazarus (up to 27.05.25) Brenda Munns – Treasurer (from 27.05.25) Carol Simons

Committees

The PCC is supported by a number of sub-committees which meet as required between full meetings of the PCC.

Standing Committee

This is the only committee required by law. It has power to transact business on behalf of the PCC and is subject to any specific directions given by the Council. It is composed of the Incumbent, Churchwardens, Treasurer, Secretary and appointed members from the PCC, with a maximum membership of seven. Church Hall Committee

Attends to matters relating to the Hall including lettings, maintenance, repairs and financial records. Communications Committee

Temporarily disbanded due to a shortage of members. Social and Events Committee

Plans, organises and advertises church social occasions and events.

Ground Maintenance Team

A small team working throughout the year to maintain the beauty of, and care for, our church grounds and glebe land.

Finance Group

Usually meets annually in November, chaired by the Treasurer. It recommends to the PCC the fees and honoraria to be paid for the following year and considers any donations to be made from church funds to missions and charities. This group includes the Vicar, Churchwardens and appointed PCC members.

The love of Christ continues to be the foundation and motivation for all that we seek to do. We encourage others to join us in the many practical and faithful tasks that support our worship, witness and service to the parish and to the many visitors who share in our church life. Our ministry is a shared calling, and a warm welcome awaits all who would like to offer their time and gifts.

Peter Furness PCC Secretary January 2026

BASILDON DEANERY REPORT for 2025

Revd. Jonathan Evens (JE), Rector of Wickford Team Ministry, continues to be our Area Dean and our meetings were either chaired by him or Christine Coe, our Deanery Lay Chair. Other

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officers of note are the Secretary - Marion Marshall and the Treasurer – our own Mary Edwards. One of the Assistant Area Deans is our own Fr. Michael Hall. Nigel Blore and Peter Furness continued as our elected representatives during this year. (Mary Edwards also attends as an exofficio member due to her being elected to Diocesan Synod)

Apart from the normal business at each meeting which regularly involves a financial commentary on contributions to the Parish Share and the exchanging of news and experiences from all the parishes, each meeting usually has at least one main theme which is supported by an invited speaker. There are normally four meetings each year.

The meeting on 18[th] February was held at St. Andrew’s, Wickford and centred upon the feedback received from Parishes in response to outside consultants employed in an effort to improve internal activity links and to improve mission opportunities. This initiative was funded through the Mission Opportunities Fund (MOF) which is a pot of money released by the Church Commissioners and controlled by Diocese for projects designed to help or improve the work of mission in the Diocese. All funding requests have to be submitted to Diocese for vetting prior to any grants being awarded. In this instance, the application was made by our Deanery for the general benefit of all the parishes that comprise the Deanery.

The second meeting of the year was held on 21[st] May at St. Nicholas, Laindon, to which our newly appointed Archdeacon (The Venerable Dr. Sue Lucas) was invited to attend. It was really a ‘get to know Sue’ session who outlined her personal background and touched on Diocesan matters very generally and without giving away any detailed future planned strategies or policies.

The next meeting was held on 18[th] September at Holy Cross, Basildon, and to which Maxine Paul, who is the Diocesan President of the Mothers’ Union (MU), was invited to speak. She said that the MU was a world-wide organisation with 4 million members spread across 84 countries. Its fund-raising supports families across the globe as well as their work in supporting issues that seek to end violence, poverty and injustice. One of their current objectives is to support the work of preventing domestic abuse through the RISE UP ( R espond, I nform, S upport, E mpower, U nite and P ray) campaign. Next year (in 2026) the MU will celebrate 150 years since it was founded by Mary Sumner as a young vicar’s wife in a small parish near Alresford in Hampshire.

The final meeting of the year was held on 20[th] November at Christ Church, Billericay, which had recently celebrated its 60[th ] anniversary. The meeting was entertained by two speakers, namely Revd. Alan Moss and Tim Hayward, both of whom are separately involved with growing Churches where none previously existed. Alan facilitates mission in areas of depravation and where there are low income communities and new estates, by encouraging involvement by nearby Churches and Deanery structures. Tim lives on a new estate in Colchester and 95% of his regular contacts have no Church affiliation. He patiently gets alongside them and builds trustful relationships as a foundation before inviting them to place their trust in Christ and his Kingship.

Peter Furness – An elected Parish Representative.

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Associate Priest Report for APCM 2026

It has been a great joy and pleasure to serve at both St. Nicholas and St. Mary Magdalene as Associate Priest this year and to see the congregations grow. Both congregations have expressed such love and warmth towards me, often affirming my calling and offering much praise and encouragement which is greatly appreciated - we all need to be encouraged in our roles from time to time.

Part of my role has involved taking funerals and baptisms in both parishes. It is always very humbling and such an honour to preside at funerals and memorial services and to meet and talk to grieving families, but there is no greater honour or feeling than when you stand over the font baptising an adult or child - both ends of the spectrum, birth and death, but equally important. I would like to express my gratitude to those who have helped at these services. You all have a valuable role to play in preparing the church, welcoming people or playing music and you are greatly appreciated.

At both churches it has been lovely to be involved in social events, as well as serve sacramentally. I particularly enjoyed the Summer Fayre at Great Burstead and the joint barbeque at the Vicarage, as well as the Harvest Supper, Agape Meal and Christmas Fayre at Laindon and hope to continue to support, encourage and plan more social and fundraising events during the coming year in each church.

None of this of course can be undertaken in our own strength but only in the strength of our awesome God and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, so I pray that He will lead us forward in the coming year to serve our communities in new and exciting ways, unite our churches, and further grow our congregations.

With every Blessing,

Revd. Karen White.

Diocesan Synod Report – 2025

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What is a Diocesan Synod?

The Diocesan Synod brings together an elected selection of clergy and lay people from across the diocese to discuss matters relating to the life of the diocese and sometimes the national church. It is a broad gathering of people in the diocese and supports the bishops, senior staff and diocesan team in shaping policy and understanding views from across Church. Diocesan synods usually meet about three times a year (March, June and September) on a Saturday and mainly in the cathedral.

Who can be on Diocesan Synod?

Any priest who is a member of a deanery synod in the diocese, and any lay person (someone who is not ordained) who is on an electoral roll of a parish in the diocese. Laity do not have to be on a deanery synod or even their PCC; you only have to be on the electoral roll to stand for election. Laity worshipping at a cathedral or in a mission initiative may also be able to stand. Those elected serve for a term of three years. Next election is August 2027.

Why does it matter?

If you want to see the Church of England embrace more inclusive policies this will only happen by engaging with its governance structures. Diocesan synods matter because they:

The agenda and minutes plus any backing papers can be found on the diocesan website

Mary Edwards Elected lay member of Chelmsford Diocesan Synod.

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Readers and Intercessors - 2025

Readers

Listed below are those who were available and able to read scriptural passages for our Sunday services during 2025

8.00am 9.30am
Bert French Caroline Blore
Kathy Heald Nigel Blore
Martyn Heald Margaret Flack
Colin Heywood Jo Hall
Anne Rudkins Carole Heywood
Colin Heywood
Mary Latham
Carol Simons
John Ward
Jeanne Wiggins
Joy Woods

Intercessors

Listed below are those who volunteered in leading prayers for our 9.30am services during 2025 Margaret Flack Jo Hall Carole Heywood Joy Woods

I wish to thank all those who have continued their commitment to read and/or to lead in prayer for our corporate worship, including the members of the Mothers’ Union on the first Sunday monthly. The monthly contribution to readings and prayers by Carole and Colin is also greatly appreciated and we welcome Bert French, Carol Simons and Joy Woods as great additions to our team as from 2025. We are always willing to welcome new readers and especially any who feel able to lead in prayer to provide a greater variety in the composition and delivery of prayer.

If anyone would like to read or to lead in prayer, he or she will be warmly welcomed and advice and guidance will always be readily available if needed. Anyone wishing to help in this way should speak with either Fr. Michael or me.

Peter Furness March 2026

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Annual Choir Report for 2025

The choir enjoys singing every Sunday and on other special occasions throughout the year, most notably the annual Carol Service. Last year’s service was especially beautiful and a true highlight in the church calendar. The choir worked extremely hard in preparation, and their dedication was clearly evident in the quality of the music and the atmosphere of worship on the night.

A special thank you goes to Ethan for his solo, Once in Royal David’s City , which he sang with great confidence and skill. He did an excellent job.

I would like to thank all members of the choir for their continued hard work, commitment, and dedication throughout the year. Through their music, they greatly enhance our worship and play an important role in the life of the church.

The choir continues to meet regularly after the 9.30am service each week to rehearse music for the following Sunday. These rehearsals are an important part of our preparation and new members are always very welcome to join us.

Emma Griffin – Olukoya Director of Music.

Church Flowers - Report for 2025

Brenda and I have enjoyed another successful year arranging the flowers within church.

We were able to purchase a few new artificial flowers this year thanks to the Standing Committee temporarily allowing us some extra funds until we can draw down from the designated Flower Fund once our financial accounts are up-to-date and audited. We will then be able to purchase a few more flowers to replace those that are looking a little sad!

We would like to thank the Mothers’ Union for their continued support. This year hundreds of poppies were knitted by members as well as by friends and family helping. The poppies made a wonderful display in church for Remembrance Sunday.

I would also like to include a big thank you to all who helped to decorate the church windowsills for harvest.

Carol Simons March 2026

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Activity Day and Fete on Saturday 5 July 2025

There was a break from tradition this year when the church PCC agreed to hold a joint event with Great Burstead and South Green Village Council. In the past each of our events were separate and this year there was just one event. Income from the event was £2544.

As a result, we were able to offer a broad range of entertainment and activity as the council was able to fund the performers requiring a fee. Roles were shared between the two organisations.

Entertainment included: 2 Bouncy Castles, Face Painting, Funfair attractions, Imperial Birds of Prey, Mayflower Morris Men, Punch and Judy, Tilbury Brass Band.

Other traditional stalls: 5th Burstead Brownies, Bric-a-Brac, Grand Draw, Mother’s Union, Smash a Plate, Tombola, Young Ones After School Club.

Also a display of classic cars, a steam engine, wood turners and an ice cream van.

Food and drink offered was a generous ploughman’s lunch, a range of cakes and refreshments.

The event was promoted with posters, flyers and social media.

The Grand Draw prizes were donated by local businesses from the South Green area, neighbours and the church community.

Volunteers on the organising committee were from the council and church. Parishioner volunteers, friends and relatives played a crucial part in the putting on an excellent event.

Alison Ingleby

Church Cleaning Report

The pattern of weekly cleaning continued throughout 2025. During the year, our volunteers on the rota, most working in pairs, dropped from 12 to 11. Additional volunteers are always welcome to join the team! I would like to thank everyone who has helped with the church cleaning during the year.

Jo Hall - Coordinator

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Church Hall report

During 2025, The Young Ones Childcare Services were the main hall hirer, using the hall Monday to Friday in term time. Outside of these times, there was occasional usage by the Church or Church members only.

In May 2025, Thom Simons stood down as the Hall Manager and Jo Hall was appointed as the new Hall Administrator on a voluntary basis reporting to the Hall Committee, which in turn reports to the PCC.

The main project for the year was to install reliable heating. The boiler running the warm air heating system was unreliable and due to the age of the system, we found that no suitable replacement is available. After consideration of various options, electric LST radiators were installed in the main hall area. An additional radiator is needed for the lobby and this will be installed in 2026.

Aside from some minor repairs and routine maintenance and pest control, other building improvements included the upgrade of the electric consumer unit and the installation of a new hot water heater that serves the hand basins in both the ladies and gents toilets.

Unfortunately, in the cold weather at the start of January 2026, a water pipe burst in the loft causing some water damage. The repairs required as a result of this have been the main focus going into 2026. Fortunately, most of the costs will be covered under an insurance claim.

Jo Hall Church Hall Administrator

Sacristan’s Report – 2025

I would like to thank Anne Rudkins and Peter Furness who serve at our 8.00am services as well as Jo Hall and Peter Furness who serve with me at our 9.30am services. Also to Peter for serving at our midweek Wednesday services.

I would also like to include my thanks to Mary Edwards who has ordered supplies and helps change the altar frontals and sets up for services. We are a very small team and would welcome others to join us.

Margaret Flack Sacristan.

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Ground Maintenance Team Report for 2025

This report is compiled by Paul Butterworth who took over as Team Leader in October 2025 from Derek Oakley to whom my thanks are due for all his guidance, supervision and long service to the Church of Great Burstead.

The Ground Maintenance Team currently comprise the following:- Paul Butterworth, Derek Oakley, Roy Rudland, Colleen & Eddie Spooner and Margaret Flack. Please continue to pray for Colleen’s recovery from cancer and I thank everyone for their dedication and time in keeping the grounds neat and tidy.

In March 2025 I constructed a permanent concrete ramp that allowed safe access to the Team’s shed. Contractors fixed the leaking roof by installing a new Bitumen cover and new batteries have given renewed life to the shed’s alarm. Our equipment include a ride on mower, push mower, leaf blower and trimmer which are all operational. The ride on mower is serviced annually by Altons of Wickford.

The Winter clearance of leaves and branch fall went to schedule and was cleared to the rear of the Church Hall shed. Priority is always given to clearances around the church’s main entrance for Funerals & Services. We are always happy to hear of the many compliments received from Church members and the general public upon the pleasing state of the grounds. The grass is in good condition and recovers well after it dies back during the dry season. The trees are healthy with several dropping large branches which are removed after storms. Footpaths are cleared of leaves and soil, with the local Council conducting repairs during 2025. I regularly inspect the ancient Yew tree by the south porch which continues to grow with the help of some extra water during the dry season.

Headstones are in good overall condition with no damage reported. Footpath bins are emptied by volunteers and I have noticed dog walkers placing dog poo bags in West bin which does overflow on occasions.

Mayflower Apple Tree: In March 2025 a replacement apple tree was planted by the Billericay Tree Wardens. It is an American Mothers variety which was discovered in Massachusetts in 1844 and originally bred by the Pilgrims from England in the 17th century.

The Glebe Field: Overall condition is good with grass cuttings heaped in SW & SE corners. During 2025 I repaired the fence that that had broken in the NE corner and adjusted the main gate so that it could continue to be closed and secured.

Church Maintenance: During 2025 the South and North Porch gutters and downpipes were cleared of fallen leaves and twigs and the moss that had grown. I also temporarily removed the exterior grill to the SE Chancel window to clean the exterior window glass after removing the ivy that had grown up the window.

Paul Butterworth – Team Leader.

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’ – Great Burstead Mothers Union 2025 Report

Mothers’ Union is a women-led, international Christian movement dedicated to ending poverty, violence and social injustice in communities in the UK and around the world.

Our Great Burstead branch started the year with 13 members and meets once a month on a Thursday afternoon. At our meetings during the year, we enjoyed the following activities: - we made Easter gardens for the church porch and knitted and crocheted poppies to decorate the church for Remembrance Sunday; held our AGM; watched a recorded interview with The Rt. Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the Bishop of Dover; enjoyed a Strawberry Tea in Mary Nightingale’s garden and a Summer of Hope Garden Party in the vicarage garden; held a Harvest service in church collecting produce for the Billericay food bank and at our Carols and Readings service we were entertained by Doreen Potter. All of our meetings start with prayer, have a fund raising raffle and end with tea and cake.

During 2025, we engaged with the Mothers’ Union RISE UP campaign, which aims to raise awareness about domestic abuse across Britain and Ireland. The Chelmsford Diocesan MU Secretary gave a presentation at one of our meetings, an awareness raising poster with helpline numbers has been placed in the church toilet and we donated cleaning products to a local domestic abuse charity, Changing Pathways.

At other branch meetings Rev. Margaret Fowler spoke to us about their link parish of Ciamanda, Embu County, Kenya; Jeff Henry gave a talk on being a dementia friend; and Rev Karen White shared a moving personal story relating to disability. Several members attended the Deanery MU service held at St Catherine’s church, Wickford in June, where we paraded our branch banner.

Donations were made to the following Mothers’ Union appeals: - Make a Mother’s Day (£121), Summer of Hope (£300), the Christmas appeal (£100), English for Women (£30), AFIA (£20) and Diocesan MU fund (£20). In addition, £155.72 was raised for The Children’s Society at the Carols and Readings and £81 was donated to the Ciamanda school in Kenya.

I would like to thank the committee for their support. In particular, Margaret Flack our Treasurer, Carol Simons our Secretary, Sheena Cope for organising the raffles, Mary Nightingale for sending out birthday cards and hosting the Strawberry Tea and Mary Lazarus for organising our social lunches that take place between meetings.

In 2026, we will be celebrating 150 years of Mothers’ Union with the invite to ‘Join us, join in’. New members are always welcome and, if you’d like to find out more, please speak to one of our members or come along to a meeting.

Jo Hall Branch Leader

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Churches Together in Billericay (CTIB) Report – 2025

Churches Together in Billericay continues to provide an important framework for cooperation, prayer, and shared witness among the Churches of our town. During 2025, CTIB has supported a wide range of activities and ministries and has also been engaged in a period of reflection about its structure, purpose, and future direction.

CTIB brings together Churches from across the Christian traditions in Billericay, and it remains a visible sign of our shared commitment to the Gospel and to serving our local community together.

Shared Worship and Public Witness

Over the past year, CTIB has continued to support and coordinate a number of key public events.

The Remembrance Sunday service in the High Street once again brought Churches, civic leaders, the British Legion, and members of the public together in an act of shared remembrance and prayer. The organisation of this service requires a significant amount of preparation, and thanks are due to all those involved in planning, printing, stewarding, music, readings, and refreshments.

CTIB also played a central role in the Christmas Market and carol singing in the High Street , with St Mary Magdalene providing hospitality through refreshments and a warm welcome. Donations raised through this event were shared between Billericay Foodbank and St Mary’s in the High Street, reflecting CTIB’s commitment both to social need and to the costs involved in enabling this ministry.

The Christmas Day Lunch , organised under the CTIB umbrella, once again provided a place of welcome, companionship, and care for those who might otherwise have been alone. This continues to be a powerful expression of Christian service in our town, supported by volunteers from churches and beyond.

Ongoing Ministries Supported by CTIB

CTIB continues to support a number of long-standing and valued ministries.

Schools Ministry Billericay (SMB) remains active across local schools through assemblies, lessons, lunchtime clubs, and special projects such as the Life Expo. The work continues to be much appreciated by schools and pupils alike, though it is facing financial pressures which are being carefully reviewed.

Billericay Foodbank continues to support around 100 households each week. Alongside meeting immediate need, work is under way to explore longer-term approaches to addressing food poverty. Churches across the town remain vital partners in this work through donations, volunteering, and prayer.

Community Pastors , following the transition from Street Pastors, continue to build relationships in the town, supported by a growing volunteer base and a newly gifted vehicle which enables greater flexibility in outreach. Despite ongoing challenges following the Hub fire, the ministry continues to develop positively. ............................... continued......................

17

Forging Men , Football Pastors , and other CTIB-linked initiatives have continued to offer spaces for fellowship, evangelism, and pastoral presence in settings that reach beyond traditional Church life.

Church Leaders and CTIB

Church Leaders’ During 2025 there has also been reflection on how CTIB and the Meeting relate to one another, particularly in a time of leadership change within the Anglican Team Ministry. These conversations have not always been straightforward, but they have been undertaken with a desire for clarity, healing, and a healthier shared future.

Church leaders have been intentionally spending more time in prayer together, asking not simply what we are doing, but what God may be calling us to become as Churches in Billericay. A proposed manifesto, reflecting on the image of “new wine and new wineskins”, has helped frame this discernment and has invited Churches to think creatively about the next season of shared mission.

Finance and Governance

CTIB’s finances remain carefully managed, with an agreed budget for 2025–26 covering insurance, public events, printing, and support for shared initiatives. Church subscriptions remain unchanged, and designated funds are held responsibly for specific ministries such as the Christmas Day Lunch and Foodbank-related work.

Thanks are due to those who serve CTIB through administration and financial oversight, often in roles that are largely unseen but essential.

Looking Ahead

As CTIB looks ahead, there is a clear desire to deepen relationships between Churches, to prioritise prayer, and to focus energy on shared witness and service rather than simply maintaining structures.

CTIB remains a gift to our town: imperfect, sometimes stretched, but rooted in a shared commitment to Christ and to the people of Billericay. It continues to remind us that we are not called to work alone, but together.

Please continue to hold the work of Churches Together in Billericay, and all those involved in it, in your prayers.

Fr. Michael Hall – Member of the Shared Leadership Team. Margaret Flack and Mary Lazarus – Appointed Deputies.

18

Licenced Lay Assistants at Communion - 2025

The following members of the team were available to assist at our communion services in 2025 and we were very grateful for their availability during the year.

Margaret Flack Jo Hall

Anne Rudkins

We are very grateful to Anne for her continuing and willing support at our 8.00am services and to Jo for her involvement whenever she is available. We are also grateful to Margaret, our Sacristan, for her regular duty and help at our 9.30am services where she often has to manage on her own.

We are now operating on the minimum number of required assistants and any unexpected absences could cause a problem in maintaining the current smooth flow of communicants at our services. The additional assistance of one or two extra helpers will therefore greatly improve the current difficulties. Anyone who feels able to fulfil this ministry and before needing to make an informed decision, is invited to have a chat with Fr. Michael. If happy to proceed, there will be full training and support for the role.

Peter Furness March 2026.

Social and Events Committee Report - 2025

A Men’s and Women’s lunch meet up is held on the last Friday of each month at the Blue Boar, Billericay. Our thanks go to Mark and Mary Lazarus for organising this. It is a great opportunity for fellowship and everyone is welcome. Please look out for details on the Pew-sheet.

Once again, a barbecue was held in the Vicarage garden at the end of August. This was well attended by Church members from St. Mary Magdalene, Great Burstead and St Nicholas, Laindon. Fortunately the rain held off for most of the afternoon.

An open church afternoon was held on a Saturday in August and our thanks go to Carole and Colin Heywood for their very interesting talk on the history of the church. In the Autumn, a Saturday morning coffee morning was held in the church. Our thanks also go to those who made cakes and helped with the refreshments at both of these events.

If anyone has suggestions for future events, please let me or another member of the committee know.

Jo Hall

Member of the Social and Events Committee

19

Vicar’s Report for the 2026 APCM

I would like to begin by offering my sincere thanks to many people for their support, commitment, and faithfulness over the past year.

First, my thanks go to our Churchwardens, Fola and Nigel. I am very grateful for their steady leadership, their time, and their care. They have supported both the practical and pastoral life of the church in ways that are often unseen but deeply important.

I also want to thank Brenda, our Treasurer, for all the work she has done this year. Her role has not been an easy one. It has required patience, accuracy, and perseverance, often in difficult circumstances. I am deeply thankful for her commitment and the care she has shown in carrying this responsibility.

I am particularly grateful to Emma, our organist, for her faithful and valued ministry. Her contribution continues to enrich our worship and support the spiritual life of the church.

I would also like to express my sincere thanks to the Revd Karen White, our Associate Priest. I am grateful for her ministry, her support, and her collegiality, and for the way she has shared in leading worship and pastoral care over the past year. My thanks also go to the members of the PCC for their time, their thoughtfulness, and their willingness to carry responsibility for the life of the parish.

I am thankful to our servers, readers, and intercessors, and to all those who clean and care for our buildings, arrange flowers, prepare refreshments, and maintain the churchyard. I am also grateful to everyone who has supported fundraising events and social occasions, and to those who have offered practical help when it has been needed.

Above all, I want to thank every member of the congregation for their prayers, encouragement, and patience. Ministry is never carried alone, and your support truly matters.

Reflections on the Year

2025 has been a year of change and adjustment. The reality of serving within a plurality is now established, and much of the year has been spent learning how to hold that responsibility in a way that is sustainable and pastoral.

Regular worship has continued throughout the year, including Sunday and weekday services and the major festivals of the Church’s year. Alongside this, there have been baptisms, weddings, funerals, home communions, hospital visits, and many quieter pastoral conversations. These moments, often unseen, remain at the heart of parish life and priestly ministry.

20

Pastoral work continues to place real demands on time and emotional energy, but it remains one of the most important and meaningful parts of ministry. I am grateful for the trust people place in the Church at moments of joy, grief, and uncertainty.

Parish Life and Organisation

Alongside worship and pastoral care, there has been a great deal of work around safeguarding, finance, buildings, and governance. These areas are not always visible or exciting, but they are essential to the healthy life of the church, and I am grateful to those who take them seriously.

During 2025, it has become clear that administration is an area we need to look at carefully in the future. The volume and complexity of administrative work has increased, particularly in the context of the plurality. Addressing this will help ensure good governance and allow clergy time to be used appropriately for worship, pastoral care, and mission.

Where possible, I have continued to be present in the wider community through informal meetings and social occasions. While not everything I hoped to do has been possible this year, the foundations remain in place for future development.

Looking Ahead

As we look to 2026, there will continue to be challenges, particularly around workload and capacity. But there are also opportunities to reflect on how we organise ourselves and how we support one another better.

I remain committed to serving this parish faithfully and prayerfully. I am deeply thankful for the trust you place in me, and I am confident that, with honesty, cooperation, and God’s guidance, we can continue to move forward together.

Thank you once again for your prayers, encouragement, and support.

Fr Michael February 2026

21

The Parish Church

of

St. Mary Magdalene Great Burstead with Ramsden Crays

Registered Charity :- 1132012

Reports for 2025

Incumbent: Father Michael Hall The vicarage Church Street Great Burstead Billericay Essex CM11 2TR

Bank: Barclays Bank

Independent Examiner Ian Rudkins FCA 14 Upland Road Billericay Essex CM12 0JP

St MARY MAGDALENE GREAT BURSTEAD with Ramsden Crays P.C.C.

Accounts for the year ending 31 December 2025

Independent examiner's report to the PCC of St Mary Magdalene Gt Burstead with Ramsden Crays P.C.C

I report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2025, which are set out on pages 1 to 5.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is need.

It is my responsibility to:

Examine the accounts under Section 145 of the 2011 Act;

Follow procedures laid down in general directions given by the Charity Commissioners in Section 145 (5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and

State whether particular matters have come to my attention

Basis of independent examiners' report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. 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 of explanations from the management committee concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in a full audit and, consequently, I do not express an opinion on the accounts.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

To keep accounting records in accordance with S130 of the 2011 Act; or

To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records have not been met; or

Ian Rudkins FCA 14 Upland Road Billericay Essex CM12 0JP

Date 14 May 2026

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC Receipts and Payments Account For the period from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment Total Prior year
funds funds funds funds funds total funds
Receipts
Donations and legacies
Income from charitable activities
Other voluntary income
Investments
Other income		 38,173
7,236
10,000
17,575
0		 21,589
5		 350
0
0
4,466		 0 38,523
28,825
10,000
22,046
0		 41,942
22,196
39,340
27,997
0
Payments
Raising funds
Expenditure on charitable activities
Other expenditure
Total Receipts		 72,984
783
62,936		 21,594
0
17,488		 4,816
0		 0 99,394
783
80,424		 131,475
276
149,821
Total Payments 63,719 17,488 0 0 81,207 150,097
Excess of receipts over payments before transfer 9,265 4,106 4,816 0 18,187 (18,622)
Transfers:
Gross transfers between funds - in
Gross transfers between funds - out
Excess of receipts over payments before other gains
Net movement in funds
Gains/losses on investment assets		 8,127
9,265
17,392		 (77)
26,149
4,106
30,178		 (8,050)
15,671
4,816
12,437		 (715)
0
(715)		 8,127
(8,127)
41,105
18,187
59,292		 19,395
(19,395)
15,995
(18,622)
(2,627)
Cash at bank and in hand at 1 January
Cash at bank and in hand at 31 December
Reconciliation of funds		 (688)
16,704		 125,612
155,790		 545,277
557,714		 26,202
25,487		 696,403
755,695		 699,029
696,403
Represented by
Unrestricted
General fund 16,704 16,704 (688)
Designated
Children's Fund 1,206 1,206 1,206
Flower Fund 2,443 2,443 2,482
Mission Activities - Messy Church 1,604 1,604 1,604
Hall Fund 15,639 15,639 11,576
New Church Hall Fund 124 124 119
James Heman Legacy 132,476 132,476 106,327
Organ Fund 2,298 2,298 2,298
Restricted
Church Spire Fund 12,857 12,857 12,160
Church Furnishings Fund 23,055 23,055 22,237
Capital Fund 438,283 438,283 430,441
Churchyard Fund 995 995 793
Church Music Fund 565 565 565
Church Building Trust Fund 81,959 81,959 79,081
Endowment
Tithe Chancel 11,968 11,968 12,120
Henry Ward 13,519 13,519 14,082
Fund Totals 16,704 155,790 557,714 25,487 755,695 696,403

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC

Statement of Assets and Liabilities As at: 31 December 2025

Class and nominal code General
(Unrestricted)		 Designated Restricted Endowment Total Last
year
CBF Investment Fund - Tithe Chancel Fund
CBF Investment Fund - Henry War Fund
M&G Investments
M&G Investments - James Henman Legacy
CCLA Investments
CCLA Investments accumulation
Current Account
Deposit account
Fixed Asset - Investments
Total
Current Asset - Cash At Bank And In Hand
Total
Net total assets		 0
8,995
7,709
16,704
16,704		 132,475
132,475
23,191
124
23,315
155,790		 180,335
257,948
18,724
457,007
2,334
98,373
100,707
557,714		 11,968
13,519
25,487
25,487		 11,968
13,519
180,335
132,475
257,948
18,724
614,969
34,520
106,206
140,726
755,695		 12,120
14,082
153,702
106,327
268,689
18,945
573,865
28,513
94,025
122,538
696,403
Represented by
General (Unrestricted) 16,704 16,704 (688)
Children's Fund - Designated 1,206 1,206 1,206
Flower Fund - Designated 2,443 2,443 2,482
Mission Activities - Messy Church - Designated 1,604 1,604 1,604
Hall Fund - Designated 15,639 15,639 11,576
New Church Hall Fund - Designated 124 124 119
James Heman Legacy 132,476 132,476 106,327
Organ Fund - Designated 2,298 2,298 2,298
Church Spire Fund - Restricted 12,857 12,857 12,160
Church Furnishings Fund - Restricted 23,055 23,055 22,237
Capital Fund - Restricted 438,283 438,283 430,441
Churchyard Fund - Restricted 995 995 793
Church Music Fund - Restricted 565 565 565
Church Building Trust Fund - Restricted 81,959 81,959 79,081
Tithe Chancel - Endowment 11,968 11,968 12,120
Henry Ward - Endowment 13,519 13,519 14,082
Total 16,704 155,790 557,714 25,487 755,695 696,403

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC

Analysis of Receipts and Payments Selected period: 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

----- Start of picture text -----
Total
This Last
General Designated Restricted Endowment
year year
Receipts
Incoming resources from donors
Planned Giving 26,600 50 26,650 23,243
Tax recoverable on Gift Aid 2,165 2,165 2,186
Other Giving and Donations 9,408 300 9,708 16,513
Incoming resources from donors Total 38,173 0 350 0 38,523 41,942
Other voluntary incoming resources
Grants 0 0
Contribution towards mission 0 0
Legacies 10000 10,000 39,340
Other voluntary incoming resources Total 10,000 0 0 0 10,000 39,340
Incoming resources from charitable activities
Fundraising 228 228 1,041
Hall rents received 143 21,589 21,732 13,275
Parochial fees 6,865 6,865 7,880
Incoming resources from charitable
activities Totals 7,236 21,589 0 0 28,825 22,196
Income from investments
Dividends and interest 17,575 5 4,466 22,046 27,997
Income from investments Totals 17,575 5 4,466 0 22,046 27,997
Other incoming resources
Insurance claims 0 0
Other receipts 0 0
Other incoming resources Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0
Receipts Grand Totals 72,984 21,594 4,816 0 99,394 131,475
Payments
Cost of generating funds
Fundraising costs 783 783 276
Cost of generating funds Totals 783 0 0 0 783 276
Charitable activities
Outreach and mission 0 0
Diocesan Parish purse 37,924 37,924 48,475
Ministry expenses 5,288 5,288 4,111
Church expenses 16,760 350 17,110 17,600
Church hall costs 1,345 17,138 18,483 79,170
Ramsden Crays Graveyard 1,494 1,494 340
Churches together in Billericay 125 125 125
Charitable activities Totals 62,936 17,488 0 0 80,424 149,821
Payments Grand Totals 63,719 17,488 0 0 81,207 150,097
----- End of picture text -----

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC Fund movement summary Selected period: 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

----- Start of picture text -----
Fund Gains Fund
Incoming Outgoing
balances and balances
Fund Transfers
brought Carried
Resources Resources Losses
forward forward
Unrestricted
General - General fund (688) 72,984 63,719 8,127 16,704
Sub-totals (688) 72,984 63,719 8,127 0 16,704
Designated
Children's Fund - Designated 1,206 1,206
Flower Fund - Designated 2,482 39 2,443
Mission Activities - Messy Church - Designated 1,604 1,604
Hall Fund - Designated 11,576 21,589 17,449 (77) 15,639
New Church Hall Fund - Designated 119 5 124
James Heman Legacy 106,327 26,149 132,476
Organ Fund - Designated 2,298 2,298
Sub-totals 125,612 21,594 17,488 (77) 26,149 155,790
Restricted
Church Spire Fund - Restricted 12,160 697 12,857
Church Furnishings Fund - Restricted 22,237 854 (36) 23,055
Capital Fund - Restricted 430,441 (8,050) 15,892 438,283
Churchyard Fund - Restricted 793 202 995
Church Music Fund - Restricted 565 565
Church Building Trust Fund - Restricted 79,081 3,063 (185) 81,959
Sub-totals 545,277 4,816 0 (8,050) 15,671 557,714
Endowment
Tithe Chancel - Endowment 12,120 (152) 11,968
Henry Ward - Endowment 14,082 (563) 13,519
Sub-totals 26,202 0 0 0 (715) 25,487
Totals 696,403 99,394 81,207 0 41,105 755,695
----- End of picture text -----

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC Note to the Accounts

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a) Basis of accounting

The accounts are prepared on the receipts and payments basis.

2 Funds

Unrestricted Funds

General Fund

General funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted.

The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body of those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Designated Funds

The PCC may set aside money for a specific purpose. The PCC cannot restrict previously unrestricted money. The designated funds can be transferred back to the general fund if required.

Restricted Funds

These funds have been donated or granted to the PCC for a specific purpose. The money can only be spent on the purpose specified by the donor or identified in a fund-raising event. This money cannot be added to unrestricted funds without the consent of the donor or the Charity Commission.

Endowment Funds

These funds have been left to the PCC with the specific instruction that only the interest generated by the capital can be spent on either a specific purpose or on general ecclesiastical purposes.

3 Fund Purposes

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

General Fund - unrestricted funds for the general running of the church and PCC

DESIGNATED UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

Children & Youth Fund - A designated fund intended to cover work for the youth of the parish. It was set up from the Catterway fund for youth Flower Fund - A designated fund intended to provide money to assist in the purchase of flowers etc for the church throughout the year. Receipts have come from payments for wedding flowers.

Mission Activities/Messy Church - a designated fund set up for the purpose of supporting mission activities.

Hall Fund - A designated fund to show the income and expenditure of the hall. Income from hirers pays for the maintenance.

New Church Hall Fund - This was set up with the aim of building a new hall starting with the profit from the Festival at Burstead 2005 but has been put on hold. James Heman Legacy - an unrestricted legacy designated by the PCC for church or hall maintenance as required.

Organ Fund - a designated fund set up to maintain the organ with income originally from wedding and funeral fees.

RESTRICTED FUNDS

Church Spire Fund - a restricted fund for the repair of the church spire damaged in 2021.

Church Furnishings Fund - a restricted fund set up for any project/furnishings in the church rather than maintenance.

Capital Fund - a restricted fund from the sale of All Saints church Ramsden Crays. Income is for general purposes but capital is restricted to new PCC-owned land or buildings, or improvements to existing.

Churchyard Fund - Receives income from Henry Ward Trust for the Church and Churchyard maintenance, including the Ward family graves. Church Music Fund - This restricted fund was set up with the money left in Joyce Norris bequest especially for Choir music. Church Building Trust Fund - a restricted fund set up to improve and maintain the church.

ENDOWMENT FUNDS

Tithe Chancel Fund - an endowment from the Tithe Act 1936 to keep the Chancel and Screen in good and substantive repair. Does not include ornament or decoration unless for preservation. The income may be used to pay a proportion of the insurance costs in relation to the Chancel area up to one third of the total premium.

Henry Ward Fund - an endowment providing an income for the Church and Churchyard maintenance, including the Ward family graves.

The Parish Church

of

St. Mary Magdalene Great Burstead with Ramsden Crays

Registered Charity :- 1132012

Reports for 2025

Incumbent: Father Michael Hall The vicarage Church Street Great Burstead Billericay Essex CM11 2TR

Bank: Barclays Bank

Independent Examiner Ian Rudkins FCA 14 Upland Road Billericay Essex CM12 0JP

St MARY MAGDALENE GREAT BURSTEAD with Ramsden Crays P.C.C.

Accounts for the year ending 31 December 2025

Independent examiner's report to the PCC of St Mary Magdalene Gt Burstead with Ramsden Crays P.C.C

I report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2025, which are set out on pages 1 to 5.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is need.

It is my responsibility to:

Examine the accounts under Section 145 of the 2011 Act;

Follow procedures laid down in general directions given by the Charity Commissioners in Section 145 (5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and

State whether particular matters have come to my attention

Basis of independent examiners' report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. 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 of explanations from the management committee concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in a full audit and, consequently, I do not express an opinion on the accounts.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

To keep accounting records in accordance with S130 of the 2011 Act; or

To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records have not been met; or

Ian Rudkins FCA 14 Upland Road Billericay Essex CM12 0JP

Date 14 May 2026

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC Receipts and Payments Account For the period from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment Total Prior year
funds funds funds funds funds total funds
Receipts
Donations and legacies
Income from charitable activities
Other voluntary income
Investments
Other income		 38,173
7,236
10,000
17,575
0		 21,589
5		 350
0
0
4,466		 0 38,523
28,825
10,000
22,046
0		 41,942
22,196
39,340
27,997
0
Payments
Raising funds
Expenditure on charitable activities
Other expenditure
Total Receipts		 72,984
783
62,936		 21,594
0
17,488		 4,816
0		 0 99,394
783
80,424		 131,475
276
149,821
Total Payments 63,719 17,488 0 0 81,207 150,097
Excess of receipts over payments before transfer 9,265 4,106 4,816 0 18,187 (18,622)
Transfers:
Gross transfers between funds - in
Gross transfers between funds - out
Excess of receipts over payments before other gains
Net movement in funds
Gains/losses on investment assets		 8,127
9,265
17,392		 (77)
26,149
4,106
30,178		 (8,050)
15,671
4,816
12,437		 (715)
0
(715)		 8,127
(8,127)
41,105
18,187
59,292		 19,395
(19,395)
15,995
(18,622)
(2,627)
Cash at bank and in hand at 1 January
Cash at bank and in hand at 31 December
Reconciliation of funds		 (688)
16,704		 125,612
155,790		 545,277
557,714		 26,202
25,487		 696,403
755,695		 699,029
696,403
Represented by
Unrestricted
General fund 16,704 16,704 (688)
Designated
Children's Fund 1,206 1,206 1,206
Flower Fund 2,443 2,443 2,482
Mission Activities - Messy Church 1,604 1,604 1,604
Hall Fund 15,639 15,639 11,576
New Church Hall Fund 124 124 119
James Heman Legacy 132,476 132,476 106,327
Organ Fund 2,298 2,298 2,298
Restricted
Church Spire Fund 12,857 12,857 12,160
Church Furnishings Fund 23,055 23,055 22,237
Capital Fund 438,283 438,283 430,441
Churchyard Fund 995 995 793
Church Music Fund 565 565 565
Church Building Trust Fund 81,959 81,959 79,081
Endowment
Tithe Chancel 11,968 11,968 12,120
Henry Ward 13,519 13,519 14,082
Fund Totals 16,704 155,790 557,714 25,487 755,695 696,403

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC

Statement of Assets and Liabilities As at: 31 December 2025

Class and nominal code General
(Unrestricted)		 Designated Restricted Endowment Total Last
year
CBF Investment Fund - Tithe Chancel Fund
CBF Investment Fund - Henry War Fund
M&G Investments
M&G Investments - James Henman Legacy
CCLA Investments
CCLA Investments accumulation
Current Account
Deposit account
Fixed Asset - Investments
Total
Current Asset - Cash At Bank And In Hand
Total
Net total assets		 0
8,995
7,709
16,704
16,704		 132,475
132,475
23,191
124
23,315
155,790		 180,335
257,948
18,724
457,007
2,334
98,373
100,707
557,714		 11,968
13,519
25,487
25,487		 11,968
13,519
180,335
132,475
257,948
18,724
614,969
34,520
106,206
140,726
755,695		 12,120
14,082
153,702
106,327
268,689
18,945
573,865
28,513
94,025
122,538
696,403
Represented by
General (Unrestricted) 16,704 16,704 (688)
Children's Fund - Designated 1,206 1,206 1,206
Flower Fund - Designated 2,443 2,443 2,482
Mission Activities - Messy Church - Designated 1,604 1,604 1,604
Hall Fund - Designated 15,639 15,639 11,576
New Church Hall Fund - Designated 124 124 119
James Heman Legacy 132,476 132,476 106,327
Organ Fund - Designated 2,298 2,298 2,298
Church Spire Fund - Restricted 12,857 12,857 12,160
Church Furnishings Fund - Restricted 23,055 23,055 22,237
Capital Fund - Restricted 438,283 438,283 430,441
Churchyard Fund - Restricted 995 995 793
Church Music Fund - Restricted 565 565 565
Church Building Trust Fund - Restricted 81,959 81,959 79,081
Tithe Chancel - Endowment 11,968 11,968 12,120
Henry Ward - Endowment 13,519 13,519 14,082
Total 16,704 155,790 557,714 25,487 755,695 696,403

St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC

Analysis of Receipts and Payments Selected period: 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

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Total
This Last
General Designated Restricted Endowment
year year
Receipts
Incoming resources from donors
Planned Giving 26,600 50 26,650 23,243
Tax recoverable on Gift Aid 2,165 2,165 2,186
Other Giving and Donations 9,408 300 9,708 16,513
Incoming resources from donors Total 38,173 0 350 0 38,523 41,942
Other voluntary incoming resources
Grants 0 0
Contribution towards mission 0 0
Legacies 10000 10,000 39,340
Other voluntary incoming resources Total 10,000 0 0 0 10,000 39,340
Incoming resources from charitable activities
Fundraising 228 228 1,041
Hall rents received 143 21,589 21,732 13,275
Parochial fees 6,865 6,865 7,880
Incoming resources from charitable
activities Totals 7,236 21,589 0 0 28,825 22,196
Income from investments
Dividends and interest 17,575 5 4,466 22,046 27,997
Income from investments Totals 17,575 5 4,466 0 22,046 27,997
Other incoming resources
Insurance claims 0 0
Other receipts 0 0
Other incoming resources Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0
Receipts Grand Totals 72,984 21,594 4,816 0 99,394 131,475
Payments
Cost of generating funds
Fundraising costs 783 783 276
Cost of generating funds Totals 783 0 0 0 783 276
Charitable activities
Outreach and mission 0 0
Diocesan Parish purse 37,924 37,924 48,475
Ministry expenses 5,288 5,288 4,111
Church expenses 16,760 350 17,110 17,600
Church hall costs 1,345 17,138 18,483 79,170
Ramsden Crays Graveyard 1,494 1,494 340
Churches together in Billericay 125 125 125
Charitable activities Totals 62,936 17,488 0 0 80,424 149,821
Payments Grand Totals 63,719 17,488 0 0 81,207 150,097
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St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC Fund movement summary Selected period: 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

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Fund Gains Fund
Incoming Outgoing
balances and balances
Fund Transfers
brought Carried
Resources Resources Losses
forward forward
Unrestricted
General - General fund (688) 72,984 63,719 8,127 16,704
Sub-totals (688) 72,984 63,719 8,127 0 16,704
Designated
Children's Fund - Designated 1,206 1,206
Flower Fund - Designated 2,482 39 2,443
Mission Activities - Messy Church - Designated 1,604 1,604
Hall Fund - Designated 11,576 21,589 17,449 (77) 15,639
New Church Hall Fund - Designated 119 5 124
James Heman Legacy 106,327 26,149 132,476
Organ Fund - Designated 2,298 2,298
Sub-totals 125,612 21,594 17,488 (77) 26,149 155,790
Restricted
Church Spire Fund - Restricted 12,160 697 12,857
Church Furnishings Fund - Restricted 22,237 854 (36) 23,055
Capital Fund - Restricted 430,441 (8,050) 15,892 438,283
Churchyard Fund - Restricted 793 202 995
Church Music Fund - Restricted 565 565
Church Building Trust Fund - Restricted 79,081 3,063 (185) 81,959
Sub-totals 545,277 4,816 0 (8,050) 15,671 557,714
Endowment
Tithe Chancel - Endowment 12,120 (152) 11,968
Henry Ward - Endowment 14,082 (563) 13,519
Sub-totals 26,202 0 0 0 (715) 25,487
Totals 696,403 99,394 81,207 0 41,105 755,695
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St Mary Magdalene Great Burstead PCC Note to the Accounts

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a) Basis of accounting

The accounts are prepared on the receipts and payments basis.

2 Funds

Unrestricted Funds

General Fund

General funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted.

The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body of those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Designated Funds

The PCC may set aside money for a specific purpose. The PCC cannot restrict previously unrestricted money. The designated funds can be transferred back to the general fund if required.

Restricted Funds

These funds have been donated or granted to the PCC for a specific purpose. The money can only be spent on the purpose specified by the donor or identified in a fund-raising event. This money cannot be added to unrestricted funds without the consent of the donor or the Charity Commission.

Endowment Funds

These funds have been left to the PCC with the specific instruction that only the interest generated by the capital can be spent on either a specific purpose or on general ecclesiastical purposes.

3 Fund Purposes

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

General Fund - unrestricted funds for the general running of the church and PCC

DESIGNATED UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

Children & Youth Fund - A designated fund intended to cover work for the youth of the parish. It was set up from the Catterway fund for youth Flower Fund - A designated fund intended to provide money to assist in the purchase of flowers etc for the church throughout the year. Receipts have come from payments for wedding flowers.

Mission Activities/Messy Church - a designated fund set up for the purpose of supporting mission activities.

Hall Fund - A designated fund to show the income and expenditure of the hall. Income from hirers pays for the maintenance.

New Church Hall Fund - This was set up with the aim of building a new hall starting with the profit from the Festival at Burstead 2005 but has been put on hold. James Heman Legacy - an unrestricted legacy designated by the PCC for church or hall maintenance as required.

Organ Fund - a designated fund set up to maintain the organ with income originally from wedding and funeral fees.

RESTRICTED FUNDS

Church Spire Fund - a restricted fund for the repair of the church spire damaged in 2021.

Church Furnishings Fund - a restricted fund set up for any project/furnishings in the church rather than maintenance.

Capital Fund - a restricted fund from the sale of All Saints church Ramsden Crays. Income is for general purposes but capital is restricted to new PCC-owned land or buildings, or improvements to existing.

Churchyard Fund - Receives income from Henry Ward Trust for the Church and Churchyard maintenance, including the Ward family graves. Church Music Fund - This restricted fund was set up with the money left in Joyce Norris bequest especially for Choir music. Church Building Trust Fund - a restricted fund set up to improve and maintain the church.

ENDOWMENT FUNDS

Tithe Chancel Fund - an endowment from the Tithe Act 1936 to keep the Chancel and Screen in good and substantive repair. Does not include ornament or decoration unless for preservation. The income may be used to pay a proportion of the insurance costs in relation to the Chancel area up to one third of the total premium.

Henry Ward Fund - an endowment providing an income for the Church and Churchyard maintenance, including the Ward family graves.