OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator.

2025-08-31-accounts

Trustees’ Annual Report

and Accounts for the year ended 31[st] August 2025

1

Introduction

The Trustees of the Wharfedale & Aireborough Circuit of the Methodist Church are pleased to present their Report for the year ended 31[st] August 2025.

Review of the Year

The full Circuit Meeting (Trustee Body) was held on 4 occasions during the year (3 times in person and once via Zoom), with an additional one item meeting by Zoom in July; the full Circuit Leadership Team met on 8 occasions (7 times in person and one via Zoom), with an additional meeting at the Superintendent Minister’s Manse in October 2024. The main focus throughout the year has continued to be the “Planning for Growth” document; this has resulted in further conversations to determine the most appropriate way forward for the Circuit and the church congregations and has led to the setting up of two new multi-site churches (Ilkley Moor and Chevin) from 1[st] September 2025, with the Local Ecumenical Partnership (LEP) at Christchurch, Ilkley retaining its independence whilst working in partnership with the new Ilkley Moor multi-site church. The emphasis has been on 3 key themes of being Transformational, Missional & Sustainable, which recognise the scarcity of resources – financial and human – and the need to ensure the number of Trustee Bodies and buildings is relevant to the present age. The Chevin church is taking on the charity registration of the former Otley Church and the Ilkley Moor church is being registered as a new charity; Christchurch, Ilkley retains its existing registration.

The annual statistics of church membership has shown a continuing decline and this will have implications for future ministerial staffing levels. The setting up of multi-site churches allows a more collaborative approach to ministerial cover. There has also been a further reduction in the number of Local Preachers, resulting in a greater number of “Local Arrangement” services. We are grateful to both our Local Preachers and our active supernumerary ministers for their continuing faithful service to the circuit. Whilst the majority of meetings are face to face we still take advantage of Zoom, particularly during the winter months, to reduce the need to travel. The Circuit ministerial team comprised 4.7 ministers throughout the reporting period, with a part time minister being employed from January through to August to help the investigation of a New Places for New People (NPNP) project in Otley. There were 5 Circuit Lay roles, with a full time Circuit Manager and part time Communications Officer, CAP Debt Centre Manager, and two support workers. There are currently 3 Circuit Stewards, one acting as Circuit Treasurer and another taking the lead on property issues, but the lack of volunteers to take on these – and other key – roles is an ongoing cause of great concern.

Throughout the reporting period Hawksworth was a class of the church at Burley in Wharfedale and the congregation at Norwood a class of Otley; both will become members of the new Chevin multi-site church. The building at Norwood also acts as a Retreat Centre in an attractive part of the Circuit; this has its own management team, with the finances currently being under circuit control.

2

The number of young people attending regular church services is generally low, but the lay workers at three of our churches work together to provide opportunities for young people to meet together and test their faith. The church at Burley in Wharfedale has purchased a mobile catering unit which is being used as a pizza outlet to provide a meeting place for youngsters; this is proving to be a facility with a much greater reach. Other less traditional offerings are Forest Church and Breathe, which are attracting people from across the circuit. During the year, usually coinciding with festival times, zoom study groups have been on offer and well received; there have also been retreats at Norwood.

The Methodist Church is committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030 and a number of churches have obtained bronze or silver Eco Awards from AROCHA. It is the intention to seek an appropriate Eco award for the Circuit. We have fitted solar panels, with batteries and charging points, at 4 of our manses and the benefits are now being felt in reduced electricity consumption for the occupants and export tariff payments to the Circuit. With a change of occupant at Ilkley the opportunity has been taken to purchase a new manse with a much-improved energy rating; it is planned to fit solar panels to this property also.

The Methodist Church is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of its life and ministry. Safeguarding is about the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture. This means we will:

Those people across the Circuit whose roles require it must undertake Safeguarding Training at Foundation and / or Advanced level. It is also mandatory that, where required, EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) Training is undertaken.

The purchase of the new Ilkley Manse was completed in July at a cost of £845,000. We were able to reclaim some levies from past sales which enabled us to make a cash purchase without recourse to a bridging loan; however, our Circuit Model Trust Fund (CMTF) balance was much depleted as at 31[st] August 2025. The former manse will be marketed as early as possible and its sale will boost the CMTF, albeit after the deduction of the Connexional Priority Fund levy. We anticipate a market value of £775k which, after the deduction of sales costs and the Connexional Priority Fund (CPF) Levy would add around £470k to the Circuit Model Trust Fund. After a protracted process, the sale of the former church premises at Otley was completed to the Community Group shortly after the year end. The sales proceeds (£296k after the deduction of the CPF levy) have been paid into the CMTF and the loans received by the Otley Church from the Circuit to cover pre-sales costs have been

3

repaid. The church premises at Addingham have also being marketed for sale, with the requirement to offer them for community use before they can go onto the open market; a purchase offer has now been accepted with completion expected during the 2025-2026 financial year.

Since September 2024 our Superintendent Minister, Rev Tim Perkins, has filled the same role for the Skipton & Grassington Circuit, spending 70% of his time in the Wharfedale & Aireborough Circuit, where he continued to have pastoral charge of the church at Burley in Wharfedale, and 30% in the Skipton & Grassington Circuit. Rev Dr Roberta Topham and Rev Roger Smith left the Circuit in 2025 with a new minister joining us from America from September 2025; the former Methodist minister at Christchurch, Ilkley is due to be replaced by a URC minister, but this position has yet to be filled (an appointment has been made that should start in August 2026).

The Circuit’s Funds:

The Circuit operates 4 unrestricted and 3 restricted separate, open funds within its Accounts; three restricted funds have been closed during the year with their small balances being used for the purposes intended. The purpose of each remaining Fund is summarised below:

The General Fund deals with all the day-to-day expenditure of the Circuit; primarily it meets the cost of the presbyters and employees of the Circuit, contributes to District and Connexion costs and meets the cost of running and maintaining the manses; to pay for these costs the Circuit raises Assessments on each Church in the Circuit with the intention to raise just sufficient income to cover the budgeted expenditure.

The Circuit Model Trust Fund exists to meet the need for major expenditure on Circuit property or to meet Circuit or church projects, all of which require the ultimate approval of the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (“TMCP”). We received refunds of levies on past sales totalling £295,724 which were used to meet the costs of purchasing a new manse in Ilkley (£845,000 plus fees). Two very small trusts held in the name of Rawdon Methodist Church were transferred to the Circuit following the Methodist withdrawal from the Rawdon Trinity Local Ecumenical Partnership (LEP), a further two require Charity Commission agreement to change their terms of use and have been the subject of resolutions to the September 2025 District Synod. As at 31[st] August 2025 the cash balance of the CMTF was £20,697. The annual levy to the Yorkshire West District (taken on 1[st] September) was £517, with the annual administration charge of £58 and when future commitments are taken into account the available funds show a shortfall of £252. However, the sale of the Otley Church premises has replenished the fund with the receipt of £296,452, after the deduction of the Connexional Priority Fund Levy; this will enable immediate commitments to be met until the manse at 48 Bolling Road, Ilkley is sold, but an equivalent sum will be earmarked for missional work in with the Otley Community. In addition to the manse purchase, grants of £28,250 were made to churches for lay employment and property projects, and £35,000 was transferred to the General Fund to cover the costs of two part-time lay employees.

4

With the full depletion of three Restricted Funds , three remain and with the forthcoming changes to the organisation of churches across the Circuit it is possible the Small Buildings’ Fund will be re-allocated to the appropriate multi-site church.

The CAP Debt Centre Fund created in 2019 has been defined as restricted as monies donated for this purpose are ring fenced to be used to pay for the operation of a Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Debt Centre. Following a period of inactivity whilst a new Debt Centre Manager was appointed this vital service is again meeting the needs of local people who are experiencing financial challenges. Grants & donations of £15.6k were received with expenditure of £19.5k, made up of the costs of employing a part-time Debt Centre Manager and the monthly fee payable to CAP. The Circuit has been awarded a grant from the Yorkshire West District to cover 40% of the anticipated cost of this project over the next 3 years and, whilst any shortfall will be underwritten by the Circuit, it is hoped other funds can be raised to meet the remaining 60%.

The Fund for the Norwood Chapel and Retreat Centre was created in 2014 when the funds of the Norwood Church were transferred to the Circuit and the congregation became a class of Otley Church. A decision was made at the Circuit Meeting in February 2018 to continue worship at Norwood and maintain a meeting facility. To support the upkeep of the building and running costs, Norwood cottage is let at a commercial rent under an Assured Short-Term Tenancy and further income is generated from organisations hiring the Retreat Centre. The fund reduced by almost £1.3k during the year to £21k. As part of the multi-site church structure being implemented during 2025-2026 Norwood will become part of the Chevin Church and the funds will be transferred to that body.

The value of all of the Restricted Funds as at 31[st] August 2025 was £28.3k, a reduction of £6.6k.

In addition to the Circuit Model Trust Fund , there are 2 more unrestricted funds which are treated as Designated Funds and recorded separately. These are:

The Property Fund was established in 2011 and exists to deal with the uneven incidence of maintenance and repair costs at the Circuit’s manses. This is currently being maintained at £12,500 - £2,500 per manse. The Circuit currently has two manses in Ilkley, having taken the opportunity to purchase a more eco-friendly property with a change of minister. An offer to purchase the former manse at 48 Bolling Road has been accepted with completion due in early summer 2026; the new property at 87 King’s Road awaits the appointment of a new minister to serve the Christchurch LEP.

The Beamsley Fund was created in 2010 when the surplus funds of the Beamsley Chapel were transferred to the Circuit following the closure of the chapel. Since that time the Fund has been augmented by rents received from the tenants at the chapel. The fund increased by almost £10k during the year to £40.2k. It has been traditional to take £4,000 a year from this fund to cover General Fund expenditure, but this has not been

5

the case in the past two years and it is planned to take £12k in 2025-2026. The next rent review is due to take place in 2026 and will be based on the movement of the Consumer Prices’ Index (CPI) since the previous review in 2024.

In Aggregate the Circuit’s total Funds as at 31[st] August 2025, including the value of 6 manses, a burial ground and the Beamsley Centre, stood at £3,334k, an increase of £254k over the year; this reflects the purchase of the additional manse in Ilkley.

Plans for 2025-2026

At the time the Budget for 2025-2026 was prepared it was envisaged that there would be 2 full time ministers, a part-time minister for 0.7fte, a part-time minister for 0.3fte and 0.7fte of the Superintendent Minister’s time, with the remaining 0.3fte of the Superintendent’s time being spent in the Skipton & Grassington Circuit; the vacant position at the Christchurch LEP should be covered by a minister from the United Reformed Church, with the costs being covered by the LEP. In anticipation of the implementation of the new multi-site church structure two former church employed lay workers have moved on to the Circuit payroll, although their costs continue to be covered by their respective churches; two other Circuit lay employees have had their hours temporarily increased by 5 per week with these additional costs being covered by the local church. In total there are 7 lay employees on the Circuit payroll supporting administration (37 hours per week), communications (10 hours per week), CAP Debt Centre (16 hours per week), an Activities Organiser (20 hours a week), a Children’s/Family Worker (20 hours a week), a Youth/Family Worker (35 hours a week) and a Discipleship & Outreach Worker (20 hours a week) - the equivalent of 4.5 full time employees. Account was taken of known stipend and salary increases for 2025/26 (ensuring pay rates remain above the Real Living Wage) and the known change in District and Connexion costs; sensible estimates were made about all other Circuit costs. It was agreed the cost of 15 hours per week for both the Activities Organiser and Children’s/Family Worker should continue to be covered from the Circuit Model Trust Fund.

The assessment calculation using our previously agreed format for the offering to be made by each church had become unsustainable following past restrictions during and after the Covid pandemic which had caused calculated requirements to be significantly different from current giving in a number of cases. The situation has been further complicated by the anticipated stationing of a URC Minister at Christchurch, Ilkley and the changes in funding by that church to the Methodists and URC; this resulted in a call to churches to make freewill offerings for 2025-2026 based on the needs of the Circuit and their ability to pay. Although this resulted in a shortfall of £6.3k before depreciation costs are taken into account, it is felt to be manageable with any shortfall able to be covered from the Circuit Model Trust Fund.

6

The significant tasks being faced for 2025-2026 are all guided by a desire to see a growth in our influence and community involvement across the circuit, based on sound Christian principles:

There are ongoing concerns about the number of Local Preachers, Circuit Stewards and volunteers for other key roles in the running of the Circuit. The Circuit will continue to provide support through provision of both resources and training for local churches to be able to offer appropriate services of worship when preachers are not available, working with the newly formed multi-site churches to ensure there are appropriate worshipping opportunities each week. We will continue to seek suitable volunteers for other roles or look for alternative means of

7

ensuring we meet all of our legal and regulatory obligations. We continue to be grateful to a number of active supernumerary ministers who take a significant number of services each quarter.

The church employed Youth & Family Workers have formed an effective team and by working together across the Circuit they are making an impact in our engagement with young people at times other than normal Sunday services. A significant contributor to this work is the Slice of Life Project at Burley in Wharfedale where a mobile Pizza trailer offers a place for young people to meet and eat; the project is attracting attention from the wider community both within and outside the Methodist Church. It is our aim to establish a Circuit Youth & Children’s Team to improve collaboration and support for youth and children across the circuit.

We will continue to investigate how best to manage the Greenhills Burial Ground in a way that minimises the ongoing cost for the circuit and causes the least amount of nuisance to neighbouring properties; the ideal outcome will be disposal of the site.

Basis of preparation and legal framework

The Charity’s annual report and accounts for the year ended 31[st] August 2025 have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Ireland (FRS 102) (effective from 1 January 2019) – (Charities SORP (FRS (102)).

Full name of Charity The Wharfedale & Aireborough Methodist Circuit
Registered Charity Number 1132357
Date of registration 2011
Main communication address Circuit Office
39 Main Street, Menston, ILKLEY, LS29 6NB.

Circuit Ministers and Officers

Active Circuit Ministers

Rev. Shannon DeLaureal (Full time until 31[st] August 2025 & 0.67 from 1[st] September 2025) Rev. Timothy Perkins (Superintendent Minister – 0.7; shared with the Skipton & Grassington Circuit) Rev Cameron Stirk

Rev. Roger Smith (until 31[st] August 2025) Rev. Dr. Roberta Topham (until 31[st] August 2025)

8

Rev. Annie Baker-Streevy (from 1[st] September 2025)

Rev. Wendy Walker (0.33 from 1[st] September 2025)

As Superintendent Minister, the Reverend Timothy Perkins acted as chair of the Circuit Meeting.

Circuit Employees

During the year, the Circuit employed Mrs Juliana Caukwell as a full time Circuit Administrator, Mr Michael Fawcett as a part-time Circuit Communications Officer, Mrs Hester Ayling as a part-time Children’s Worker, Ms Jean Snaith as a part time Activities Organiser and Mr Michael Dodd as the part-time CAP Debt Centre Manager. From 1[st] September 2025 Ms Jo Dixon, Discipleship & Outreach Worker, and Ms Fiona Thomson, Youth & Children’s Worker have become Circuit employees, although their pay costs continue to be covered by their respective churches.

Circuit Stewards

The Circuit Stewards in office in the year ended 31[st] August 2025 were as follows:

Mrs Hilary Murden Mr Richard Lowe Mr Alan Sheath

The Members of the Wharfedale & Aireborough Methodist Circuit meeting are the Charity Trustees, membership being made up of Circuit office holders, ministers and representatives appointed by local churches.

Trustees:

Superintendent Minister / Chair of Trustee Body

Rev Timothy M Perkins Mr Joost Aarste Tuyn Until 31[st] August 2025 Rev Rita Armitage Mr George Auterson Rev Annie Baker-Streevy From 1[st] September 2025 Mrs Patsy Bastow From 1[st] September 2025 Mr Peter Bastow Until 31[st] August 2025 Mrs Joan Bosomworth Until 31[st] August 2025

9

Mr David Brown Mr Ken Brown Mr John Burland Mrs Juliana Caukwell Deacon Elizabeth Day Rev Shannon DeLaureal Mr Lionel Derry Mrs Judith Ellis Miss Marjorie Emsley Mr Michael Fawcett Ms Margaret Fielding Mr David Gouldesbrough Mrs Sue Gray Mrs Penny Gwilt Rev David Halstead Mrs Elizabeth Hoyle Mrs Lindsey Hurst Mrs Jalna Jenkins Mr Steve Jennings Mrs Val Lamond Ms Kate Ling Mr Richard Lowe Mrs Gillian MacIntosh Mr Chris MacIntosh-Dixon Mrs Debbie Mashiter Mr Neil Mofoot Mrs Sarah Morrish Mr Thomas Morrish Mrs Hilary Murden Mr Bernard Neville Mrs Heather Newell Mrs Carol Newton Mr Michael Noble

Until 31[st] August 2025 Until 31[st] August 2025

From 1[st] September 2025 From 1[st] September 2025 Until 31[st] August 2025 From 1[st] September 2024 Until 31[st] August 2025 From 1[st] September 2025 From 1[st] September 2025 From 1[st] September 2025 Until 31[st] August 2025 From 1[st] September 2025 Deceased 12[th] May 2025 Until 31[st] August 2025 From 1[st] September 2025 From 1[st] September 2025

10

Mrs Judith Nordby Mrs Angela Pearson Until 31[st] August 2025 Mrs Vivien Pitts Mr Alan Pratt Until 31[st] August 2025 Rev Keith Reed From 1[st] September 2025 Mrs Marion Rider Until 31[st] August 2025 Mr Alan Sheath Mrs Pam Smith Rev Roger Smith Until 31[st] August 2025 Ms Jean Snaith From 1[st] September 2025 Mr Chris Solomon Until 31[st] August 2025 Rev M Cameron Stirk Mr Norman Sykes Mrs Pauline Tate Until 31[st] August 2025 Mr John Tattersall Mrs Janet Thompson Rev Roberta Topham Mr Jon Walker Rev Wendy Walker From 22[nd] November 2024 Ms Susan Ward Until 31[st] August 2025

The Auditor is Xeinadin Audit Ltd, 5 Robin Hood Lane, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 2SW.

The Circuit’s Investment Bankers are the Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church and Trustees for Methodist Church purposes.

The Circuit’s bank account is held at CAF Bank Ltd.

Aims and Organisation

The Charity’s objective is to act as a resource provider for the Methodist Church within an area north west of Leeds between Guiseley to the south, Pool-in-Wharfedale to the east, Norwood to the north, and Ilkley and Addingham to the west.

The purposes of the Methodist Church are and shall be deemed to have been since the Date of Union the advancement of: a. The Christian faith in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of the Methodist Church;

11

Public benefit

We confirm the Trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit

Structure, governance and Management

The governing document for the Circuit is the Deed of Union (1932) and Methodist Church Act (1976). Detailed governance arrangements are outlined within the Constitutional Practice and Discipline of the Methodist Church by order of the annual conference (CPD). The Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP) are the custodian trustees of the Circuit Properties.

Day to day management of the Circuit is undertaken by the Circuit Leadership Team, as follows:

Rev. Timothy Perkins Rev. Annie Baker-Streevy Rev. Shannon DeLaureal Rev. Cameron Stirk Rev. Wendy Walker Mrs Juliana Caukwell Mr Mike Fawcett

12

Mrs Hilary Murden Mr Richard Lowe

Mr Alan Sheath

Mrs Carol Newton

Trustee Training

A range of guidance produced by the Methodist Connexion to support the effective running of the Circuit specifically the leaflet “The Five Golden Rules of being a Trustee” has been given to all Circuit Meeting members.

Related Parties

The Circuit is part of the Yorkshire West District and is also accountable to the Methodist Conference.

The following Methodist Churches are linked to the Circuit. From 1[st] September 2025 they are being formed into Multi-site Churches.

ILKLEY MOOR METHODIST CHURCH (with congregations at):

Addingham Methodist Church Ben Rhydding Methodist Church Burley-in-Wharfedale Methodist Church

CHEVIN METHODIST CHURCH (with congregations at):

Bramhope Methodist Church Guiseley Methodist Church Hawksworth Methodist Church Menston Methodist Church Norwood Chapel and Day Retreat Centre Otley Methodist Church Pool-in-Wharfedale Methodist Church Yeadon Methodist Church

13

CHRISTCHURCH, ILKLEY LEP

Christchurch, Ilkley operates as part of a Local Ecumenical Partnership (“LEP”), involving Methodists and the United Reformed Church.

Risk Management

The major risks have been identified and recorded by the Circuit Finance and Property Committees with professional advice taken as required. There is a regular annual review process undertaken and recorded. Income and expenditure are being monitored in total and compared with the approved annual Budget on a quarterly basis to detect trends as part of the risk management process to avoid unforeseen calls on reserves. The Circuit also monitors the finances of local churches to ensure their ability to pay the Circuit Assessment. The Circuit Model Trust fund (CMTF) enables agreed spend on missional and property projects across the Circuit that cannot be covered from other financial resources; whilst this fund has been depleted with the purchase of the new manse in Ilkley the balance will increase with the completion of the sale of the Otley Church premises, the Addingham Church premises and the old manse in Ilkley.

Safeguarding

Every person has a value and dignity which comes directly from the creation of male and female in God’s own image and likeness. Christians see this potential as fulfilled by God’s recreation of us in Christ. Among other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of God and therefore to protect them from harm

Methodist Connexional practice outlines commitment to the following principles:

the care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and adults the safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and adults when they are vulnerable

the establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse

14

The Wharfedale & Aireborough Circuit commits itself to ensuring the implementation of Connexional Safeguarding Policy, Government legislation, guidance and safe practice in the Circuit and in the Churches. Additionally, it commits itself to the provision of support, advice and training for lay and ordained people that will ensure people are clear and confident about their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults who may be vulnerable

Circuit Reserves & Policy

As at 31[st] August 2025 Debtors & Prepayments were £16,449 and, additionally, the Circuit has made loans of £19,457 which were repaid after the year end following the sale of the Church buildings at Otley. Creditors, including future commitments, at 31[st] August 2025 were £121.5k.

The bulk of the income coming to the Circuit is from the Assessment placed on churches, which is agreed annually with Church Treasurers. This ensures a high degree of certainty going forward as it takes account of each church’s ability to pay. However, the Circuit considers it prudent to hold sufficient reserves to enable it to overcome any short notice financial crisis.

Our main source of back up is the Circuit Model Trust Fund (CMTF); at 31[st] August 2025 there was a balance of £20.7k following the purchase of the new manse in Ilkley, which was insufficient to cover the agreed future commitments of £21k. However, the proceeds from the sale of the Otley Church premises (less fees and the Connexional Priority Fund Levy) have been paid into the CMTF adding £296,452; the former manse at Ilkley is being marketed for sale and the proceeds (after costs and the Connexional Priority Fund Levy) will also go into the CMTF. (There may also be additional funds from the sale of the church building at Addingham and following our withdrawal from the Local Ecumenical Partnership at Rawdon). This Fund is managed on behalf of the Circuit by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP), but is readily available subject to the recorded agreement of the Trustees (Circuit Meeting) for appropriate purposes. The Trustees seek to ensure there is sufficient money (or firm plans for deposits, as previously outlined) in the CMTF to meet all known future grant and Circuit funding commitments.

The value of the 3 Restricted Funds is £28.4k, the largest being the Fund for the Norwood Chapel and Retreat Centre at £21k; these receive their funding from external sources. The Norwood Chapel and Retreat Centre will become part of the Chevin Church during 2025-2026.

15

In addition to the CMTF the Circuit has cash holdings with the CAF Bank (current account) and Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church (deposit account). There is a separate Manses’ Reserve Fund of £12,500 as at 31[st] August 2025 and the Circuit considers it suitably prudent to maintain sufficient Funds within its General Fund to pay 25% of the succeeding year's budgeted expenditure. The Circuit will hold cash reserves in its current account or deposit account at Central Finance Board (CFB) equivalent to 3 months' General Fund expenditure plus the fund balance of total Restricted Funds. Regular monitoring is required to ensure adherence to policy and if necessary, to put into place a plan to augment the Circuit’s funds.

Reserves Test as at 31st August 2025
Required:
25% of General Fund Expenditure Budget 2025/2026
Total Restricted Funds Value
Total Cash at Bank & CFB 31/8/2025
Surplus
£
102,682
27,541
130,223
153,124
22,901

Responsibilities of trustees under charity law

The trustees are responsible for preparing the trustees' annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of the affairs of the charity as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, for the financial year. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

  1. select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;

  2. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;

  3. make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

16

state whether the applicable accounting standards have been followed. subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial Statements: and 5. prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Declaratlons and Scrutlny I confirm that these accruals-based accounts for the year to 31 August 2025 have been prepared from the records of the Circuit and that they include all funds under the control of the Circuit meeting. Slgnature of treasurer Date.. 1st May 2026 Name and address of treasurer Rlchard F Lowe 3 The Roblns. Budey-in-wharfedale, ILKLEY Post CcMJe...LS29 7PR 17

Presentation to the Circuit meoting I confirm that the annual report and accounts for the year ended 31 August 2025 were presented to the Circuit meeting held on 81h June 2026 Signature of the Chair of the meeting Name of the Chair of the meeting Rev Tlmothy M PerkSns Date 8th June 2026 18

Independent auditor’s report to the trustees of Wharfedale & Aireborough Methodist Church Circuit

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Wharfedale & Aireborough Methodist Church Circuit (the “Charity”) for the year ended 31 August 2025 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102: The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion, the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least 12 months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, including the trustees’ report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

19

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees’ report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of the trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

20

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Based on our understanding of the charity, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to employment and financial reporting legislation and we considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Charities Act 2011.

We assessed the susceptibility of the charity's financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by making enquiries of management, considering the internal controls in place and discussion amongst the engagement team.

We determined that the principal risks were related to management bias in accounting estimates, presentation of separately disclosed items, disclosure of related party transactions and management override of controls.

In response to the risks identified we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to reviewing trustees minutes, challenging significant accounting estimates, evaluating the internal controls, agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation, reviewing related party information and identifying and testing journal entries.

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Other matter

The charity’s income was below the threshold where an audit was required in the prior year therefore the comparative figures are not audited.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the Charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Xeinadin Audit Limited Statutory Auditor 5 Robin Hood Lane Chartered Accountants Sutton Surrey SM1 2SW

9 June 2026 Dated: .................

21

WHARFEDALE & AIREBOROUGH METHODIST CHURCH CIRCUIT

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:
Donations and legacies
3
Charitable activities
4
Investments
5
Other Trading Activities
6
Other income
7
Total income and endowments
EXPENDITURE ON:
Charitable activities
8
Total expenditure
Net gains on investments
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
17
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
17		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
1,200
705,015
31,807
9,312
-
747,334
490,549
490,549
185
256,970
3,800
260,770
3,044,967
3,305,737		 Restricted
Funds
£
18,489
-
840
11,925
-
31,254
34,069
34,069
-
(2,815)
(3,800)
(6,615)
34,997
28,381		 Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
19,689
19,354
705,015
403,726
32,647
27,782
21,237
19,574
-
261,006
778,588
731,441
524,618
700,469
524,618
700,469
185
108
254,155
31,080
-
-
254,155
31,080
3,079,963
3,048,883
3,334,118
3,079,963

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing operations.

The notes on page 27-48 form part of these accounts.

22

WHARFEDALE & AIREBOROUGH METHODIST CHURCH CIRCUIT

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 AUGUST 2025

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
11
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
12
Investments
13
Cash at bank and in hand
14
CREDITORS: Amounts falling
due within one year
15
Net current assets
TOTAL NET ASSETS		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
3,245,876
3,245,876
35,056
20,697
125,562
181,315
(121,454)
59,861
3,305,737		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
850
-
27,562
28,412
(31)
28,381
28,381		 Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
3,245,876
2,400,911
3,245,876
2,400,911
35,906
39,124
20,697
648,969
153,124
170,087
209,727
858,180
(121,485)
(179,128)
88,242
679,052
3,334,118
3,079,963

23

WHARFEDILE & PJRE80ROUGH ￿ErHo(￿ CHURCH CIRcurr BALWICE SH￿ ICONTINUEDI AT 31 AUGUST 2025 Lthth'cled P*stric FurKIs Funts 2025 F￿d$ 2024 FUND BALANCES Unrestricted F￿d5 General funds Deygnated fuThls 17 3,253,261 52.476 3.305.737 3.253.261 52.476 3.305,737 2.415,671 629,295 3.044, Restrictsd F￿d$ 28.381 28,381 34,997 3.305 737 28.381 3 334.118 3.079.￿3 The fironcial statenEnts W¢)￿￿ by the 8cArd ol TrLrntees arKI rts bthy ty.. PEIIKI￿s Date. Ch￿ty rwts. 1132357 The rths rffl pèJes 27 bj 48 ILrm part CA Ihese xcrArt%. 24

WHARFEDALE & AIREBOROUGH METHODIST CHURCH CIRCUIT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

CASH FLOW STATEMENT

Note
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities
a
Cash flows from investing activities:
Dividends, interest and rents from investments
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Net cash provided by/(used in) investing activities
b
b
Cash and equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
Change in cash and equivalents in the reporting period		 2025
2024
£
£
152,197
(257,695)
53,884
47,356
-
511,006
(851,315)
(50,800)
(797,431)
507,562
(645,234)
249,867
819,056
569,189
173,822
819,056

Analysis of changes in net debt:

Cash and cash equivalents
Total net funds / (debt)		 At start of
year
£
819,056
819,056		 At end of
Cash-flows
year
£
£
(645,234)
173,822
(645,234)
173,822

25

WHARFEDALE & AIREBOROUGH METHODIST CHURCH CIRCUIT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT

Note a: Reconciliation of net income/(expenditure) to net cash flow from operating activities

Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges and provisions for impairment
Dividends, interest and rents from investments
Loss/(profit) on the sale of fixed assets
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
Net income/(expenditure) for the reporting period (as per the statement of financial
activities)		 2025
£
254,155
6,350
(53,884)
-
3,218
(57,642)
152,197		 2024
£
31,080
6,350
(47,356)
(261,006)
(1,024)
14,260
(257,695)

Note b: Analysis of cash and cash equivalents

Cash at bank with immediate access
Notice deposits (with a term of three months or less)
Current asset investments
Total cash and cash equivalents		 2025
£
3,574
149,551
20,697
173,822		 2024
£
4,456
165,631
648,969
819,056

26

WHARFEDALE & AIREBOROUGH METHODIST CHURCH CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

1 Statutory Information

The charity is trust registered with the Charity Commission in England & Wales. The charity's registered number is 1132357 and its principal address is 39 Main Street, Menston, ILKLEY, LS29 6NB.

2 Accounting Policies

These financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis, under the historical cost convention. The financial statements are presented in pounds sterling, rounded to the nearest pound.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the "Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) ("the Charities SORP 2019"), with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland ("FRS 102") and with the Charities Act 2011. The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity as set out in FRS 102.

The Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 (the '2008 Regulations') requires charities to prepare their accounts in accordance with 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005' but this accounting standard has since been withdrawn and has been replaced by the Charities SORP mentioned in the preceding paragraph. The charity has prepared these financial statements in accordance with the new Charities SORP; this departure from the 2008 Regulations is believed to be necessary for these financial statements to give a 'true and fair view'.

The principles adopted in the preparation of the financial statements are set out below.

27

2 Accounting Policies (continued)

a) Going concern

The trustees have assessed whether the use of the going concern basis is appropriate and have considered possible events or conditions that might cast significant doubt on the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern. The trustees have made this assessment for a period of at least one year from the date of approval of the financial statements. In particular the trustees have considered the charity's forecasts and projections and the possible implications should projected income and / or expenditure vary unexpectedly. The trustees have concluded that there is a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue to operate for the foreseeable future. The charity therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its financial statements.

b) Income

Income including investment income is recognised in the period in which the charity becomes entitled to receipt, the amount receivable can be measured with reasonable certainty, and receipt is probable. For the most part, income is generally recognised when it is received. Income is only deferred when the charity has to fulfil conditions before becoming entitled to it or where the donor has specified that the income is to be expended in a future period.

Income from charitable activities represents income receivable from goods, services and facilities supplied in furtherance of the charity's charitable objects. It includes income from Circuit Assessments on churches and other incidental activities.

Investment income represents income generated by the charity's assets and includes income from letting the charity's property and bank interest.

Other income comprises gains arising from the disposal of tangible fixed assets.

The charity has taken the view that it has only one charitable activity, namely the advancement of the Christian faith, and all income from donations, legacies and charitable activities is in respect of this one activity.

28

2 Accounting Policies (continued)

Expenditure, including irrecoverable VAT, is recognised when it is incurred or, if earlier, when a legal or constructive obligation for a payment arises provided that it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

The charity makes grants to other institutions and individuals to further its charitable objectives. Grants payable are recognised as constructive obligations arise, which is generally when the charity expresses a commitment to the recipient that can be measured reliably and then only to the extent that any conditions associated with the grant are outside of the control of the charity.

The cost of raising funds is not significant and has not been separately disclosed.

The Charities SORP requires charities with income over £500,000 to allocate costs to the various activities undertaken by the charity. The nature of the work of the charity is considered to be so integrated that the core charitable activity costs are considered to be for the one activity.

Governance costs, which are included in expenditure on charitable activities but are identified separately in the notes to the accounts, includes costs associated with the independent examination of the financial statements, compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements and any other expenditure incurred on the strategic management of the charity.

29

2 Accounting Policies (continued)

d) Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity. Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. Restricted funds are donations which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors; they include donations received from appeals for specific activities or projects. Endowment funds are donations that are retained as capital in accordance with the donor's wishes. The nature of the restriction determines whether the endowments represent permanent endowments or expendable endowments.

e) Tangible fixed assets

Items purchased or donated for the charity's own use are capitalised when the cost of purchased items, or the fair value of donated items, is more than £1,000 and the item is expected to benefit the charity over more than one accounting period. Depreciation is charged on a straight line basis so as to write down the value of each asset to its estimated residual value (if any) over its expected useful economic life. To achieve this objective the following rates of depreciation are charged:

Freehold land Is not depreciated (because it is not consumed by use) Freehold buildings Over 50 years after taking account of the building's residual value Property improvements Over 5 to 25 years after taking account of the improvement's residual value Leasehold improvements Over the lease term or, if shorter, expected useful life Equipment Over 3 to 7 years

The carrying values of tangible fixed assets are reviewed for impairment in periods when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

30

2 Accounting Policies (continued)

The freehold property is shown in the accounts at 2019 deemed values, values were determined by reference to local estate agents in 2014, except where a later purchase was made, then purchase price is used. First time adoption of FRS 102 allows for values to be deemed as the values held 1 Sep 2015. No depreciation is provided on the building because the trustees consider the current residual fair value of the manse buildings (on the assumption that it had reached the end of its useful economic life by the year-end) to be not less than its current value. The property has been reviewed for impairment.

f) Investments

Fixed asset investments are held to generate income and / or for their investment potential. Current asset investments are investments that are held specifically for sale or are investments that the charity expects to sell by the next balance sheet date. Investments, other than social investments (see below), are valued as follows:

Impairment losses and losses arising on the disposal of social investments are included in the Statement of Financial Activities under the heading 'Expenditure on charitable activities'. Gains arising on the disposal of social investments are included in the Statement of Financial Activities under the heading 'Other income'. All other gains and losses on investment assets are included in the Statement of Financial Activities under the heading 'Net gains / (losses) on investments'.

g) Pension scheme arrangements

The Charity makes payments to the Methodist Ministers' Pension Scheme '(MMPS)' which is a defined benefit scheme operated by The Methodist Church. The Circuit accounts for contributions paid for by the ministers and the circuit as a defined contribution as no liability for past service sits with the circuit. A defined contribution pension scheme operates for the lay staff. All circuit contributions to the scheme are charged to the income and expenditure account in the period to which they relate.

31

2 Accounting Policies (continued)

h) Taxation

j) Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement

3 Donations and legacies

Donations of cash and similar
Grants		 2025
2024
£
£
8,118
5,538
11,571
13,816
19,689
19,354

32

4 Income from charitable activities
Assessments on Churches
Model trust levy refunded
Other income
4 Income from charitable activities
2025 2024
£ £
Assessments on Churches 399,665 394,224
Model trust levy refunded 295,724 -
Other income 9,626 9,502
705,015 403,726
5 Investment income
2025 2024
£ £
Interest and dividends 32,647 27,782
32,647 27,782
6 Other Trading Activities
2025 2024
£ £
Property letting 21,237 19,574
21,237 19,574
7 Other income
2025 2024
£ £
Gains on disposal of:
tangible fixed assets - 261,006
- 261,006

33

8 Charitable expenditure

a
Costs incurred directly on specific activities
Salaries, Employer's national insurance and pension contributions of presbyters and deacons
Telephone, utilities, travel and expenses of presbyters and deacons
Salaries, Employer's national insurance and pension contributions of lay workers
Expenses of lay workers
Mission and ministry
Property maintenance
Other property costs
District assessment
Connexional costs
Model trust levy
District advance fund
CAP project costs
Grants payable (note 8c)		 2025
2024
£
£
202,620
202,535
16,343
15,421
85,343
67,963
1,347
2,280
2,380
3,120
30,760
32,975
36,543
35,071
16,220
15,434
72,580
69,054
-
179,562
517
39,923
6,093
4,386
470,746
667,723
25,475
10,150
496,221
677,873

34

8 Charitable expenditure (continued)

b
Costs incurred on support & administration
Governance costs
Audit / Independent examiner's fees
Other
Subscriptions and professional fees
Other administration expenses
Insurance
Miscellaneous expenses
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Total expenditure		 9,000
3,420
2,400
-
11,400
3,420
60
60
5,076
7,249
4,529
4,358
982
1,159
6,350
6,350
28,397
22,596
524,618
700,469

The fee payable to the auditor was £9,000 (2024: £3,420 for examination and accounts preparation).

35

8 Charitable expenditure (continued)

c Grants payable

Grants for UK and overseas mission
The comparatives for the previous year are as follows:
Grants for UK and overseas mission
The charity's principal grants to institutions comprised:
Burley-in-Wharfedale Methodist Church
Christchurch Ilkley LEP
Acts 435		 Institutions
£
25,475
25,475
Institutions
£
10,150
10,150		 Individuals
2025
£
£
-
25,475
-
25,475
Individuals
2024
£
£
-
10,150
-
10,150
2025
2024
£
£
5,000
-
20,475
9,750
-
400
25,475
10,150

36

9 Analysis of staff costs, the cost of key management personnel and trustee remuneration

Gross wages and salaries
Social security
Pension costs		 2025
2024
£
£
231,067
210,203
22,944
18,939
33,952
41,356
287,963
270,497

The average monthly number of employees during the year was 11 (2024: 9). Most of the charity's activities are carried out by volunteers.

No staff received salaries at a rate of more than £60,000 per annum.

The charity's key management comprise the trustees and the key staff named on the Charity Information page. Total employment benefits payable to key management for the year were as follows:

Employer's
Employer's
Wages &
National
Pension
salaries
Insurance
Contributions
Trustees:
Rev Roger Smith (Presbyter)
31,020
3,346
6,204
Rev Timothy Perkins (Superintendent & Presbyter)
23,885
2,651
4,343
Rev Roberta Topham (Presbyter)
31,020
3,346
6,204
Rev Shannon DeLaureal (Presbyter)
31,020
3,447
6,204
Rev Cameron Stirk (Presbyter)
31,020
3,346
6,204
Rev Wendy Walker (Presbyter)
6,724
377
1,379
Juliana Caukwell (Circuit Administrator)
33,768
3,761
2,015
Michael Fawcett (Circuit Communications Officer)
7,523
165
-		 2025
£
40,570
30,879
40,570
40,671
40,570
8,480
39,544
7,688
248,972

37

9 Analysis of staff costs, the cost of key management personnel and trustee remuneration (continued)

The following amounts were payable in the previous year:

Employer's
Employer's
Wages &
National
Pension
salaries
Insurance
Contributions
Trustees:
Rev Roger Smith (Presbyter)
29,040
2,779
7,812
Rev Timothy Perkins (Superintendent & Presbyter)
31,944
3,263
7,812
Rev Roberta Topham (Presbyter)
29,040
2,779
7,812
Rev Shannon DeLaureal (Presbyter)
29,040
2,979
7,812
Rev Cameron Stirk (Presbyter)
29,040
2,779
7,812
Juliana Caukwell (Circuit Administrator)
31,561
3,075
1,883
Michael Fawcett (Circuit Communications Officer)
7,030
-
-		 2024
£
39,631
43,018
39,631
39,831
39,631
36,519
7,030
245,291

All of the above named individuals received the above payments for serving in the stated capacities, not for serving as trustees; these payments are permitted by the charity's governing document.

In addition the charity incurred expenditure totalling £47,011 (2024: £48,963) in respect of the customary provision of accommodation to Presbyters and Deacons, so that they could better perform their duties.

10 Acting as agent

On occasion the charity receives money on behalf of other charities, which it banks and then pays out to these charities. This income is received as agent for these other charities and the income, and the related payments, are excluded from the Statement of Financial Activities; any money that has not been distributed by the year end is recognised as a creditor.

During the year the charity acted as agent for related Methodist charities and, in that capacity:

38

11 Tangible fixed assets

Cost or valuation
At 1 September 2024
Additions
At 31 August 2025
Accumulated depreciation
At 1 September 2024
Charge for the year
At 31 August 2025
Net book value
At 31 August 2025
At 31 August 2024		 Freehold
Property
£
2,356,461
851,315
3,207,776
-
-
-
3,207,776
2,356,461		 Property
Total
Improvements
2025
£
£
50,800
2,407,261
-
851,315
50,800
3,258,576
6,350
6,350
6,350
6,350
12,700
12,700
38,100
3,245,876
44,450
2,400,911

At the beginning of the financial year, the Circuit owned 5 manses. All the manses then held were informally valued by reference to local estate agents as at 31st August 2014. The new Manses at Far Mead Croft and at St Oswald's Walk, Turner Lane Addingham and East Busk Lane acquired in 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2022 respectively are included at cost. A new manse at King's Road, Ilkley, was acquired in 2025 and is also included at cost. The old manse in Ilkley is expected to be sold in the year ending 31 August 2026.

The freehold on residential property is shown at deemed historical cost representing each property's gross carrying value at 1 September 2015 per the transitioning relief allowed under first time adoption of FRS102.

The Beamsley Church has been included at a value reflecting its current use; its income is limited to a market agreed rent charged to the Beamsley Project charity. For insurance purposes it has a replacement cost value of £2,496,000.

The Greenhill Cemetary site is owned by the Circuit, it is insured and maintained at the Circuit's expense.

39

12 Debtors

Falling due within one year:
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
Loans
Total debtors
13
Current asset investments
TMCP Holdings
14
Cash at Bank and in Hand
Cash at bank with immediate access
Central Finance Board Deposits
15
Creditors: liabilities falling due within one year
Trade creditors
Accruals
Deferred income
Grant obligations		 2025
2024
£
£
911
-
15,538
20,612
19,457
18,512
35,906
39,124
2025
2024
£
£
20,697
648,969
20,697
648,969
2025
2024
£
£
3,573
4,456
149,551
165,631
153,124
170,087
2025
2024
£
£
714
1,429
18,906
54,533
81,390
99,916
20,475
23,250
121,485
179,128

40

16 Pension commitments

Summary of pension contributions payable for year:

The charity's pension contributions were as follows

to the Methodist Ministers' Pension scheme (defined benefit)
to defined contribution pension schemes		 2025
2024
£
£
30,537
39,059
3,415
2,297
33,952
41,356

Summary of pension liabilities at the year end:

The charity's pension liabilities at the end of the year were as follows:

in respect of defined benefit pension arrangements
in respect of defined contribution pension arrangements		 2025
2024
£
£
-
-
-
-
-
-

41

17 Funds

During the year the movements in the charity's funds were as follows:

Designated Funds
The Circuit Model Trust Fund
The Property Fund
The Beamsley Fund
General Unrestricted Funds
Total Unrestricted Funds		 Opening
balance
2025
£
586,499
12,500
30,296
629,295
2,415,671
3,044,967		 Income
2025
£
323,275
-
14,795
338,069
409,265
747,334		 Expenditure
2025
£
(26,050)
-
(4,863)
(30,913)
(459,636)
(490,549)		 Transfers
in the year
2025
£
(884,160)
-
-
(884,160)
887,960
3,800		 Gains and
Closing
losses
balance
2025
2025
£
£
185
(252)
-
12,500
-
40,228
185
52,476
-
3,253,261
185
3,305,737

The Circuit Model Trust Fund (CMTF) is held with the Trustees For Methodist Church purposes (TMCP) as a Trust Account. It receives funding from Property Sales which can be used for the general purposes of the charity - with agreement.

The Property Fund is a Reserve, held in case of unexpected significant expenditure on Manses.

The Beamsley Fund receives the quarterly rental from the Beamsley Project, to whom the premises at Beamsley are let. There is little financial responsibilityon the Circuit and surplus funds can be used for General Fund activity, by reducing the impact of the assessment on individual churches / congregations.

42

17 Funds (continued)

Restricted Funds

CAP Fund
The Norwood Chapel and Retreat Centre Fund
Other small restricted funds
Aggregate of funds		 8,812
22,268
3,916
34,997
3,079,963		 15,619
15,635
-
31,254
778,588		 (19,529)
(13,124)
(1,416)
(34,069)
(524,618)		 -
(3,800)
-
(3,800)
-		 -
4,902
-
20,979
-
2,500
-
28,381
185
3,334,118

The CAP Fund is the Circuit's support for a Debt Centre Manager working on behalf of Christians Against Poverty. The Manager''s salary and expenses and a monthly payment to CAP are covered by the Circuit.

The Norwood Chapel & Retreat Centre is a Circuit project and there is a small worshipping congregation. The finances currently form part of the Circuit accounts, but will move to the Chevin Multi-site church during 2025-2026.

As at 31st August 2025 the only "Other small Restricted Fund" was an historic one for support of small churches. With the demise of such need the Trustees have agreed this Fund should be closed and made available for General Purposes within the the Circuit.

The transfers referred to above were made for the following reasons:

43

17 Funds (continued)

Analysis of net assets by fund

The assets and liabilities of the various funds were as follows:

Tangible fixed assets
Debtors
Investments held as current assets
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors falling due within one year		 General
Designated
funds
funds
£
£
3,245,876
-
34,955
101
-
20,697
72,833
52,728
(100,403)
(21,050)
3,253,261
52,476
Unrestricted Funds		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
£
-
3,245,876
850
35,906
-
20,697
27,563
153,124
(31)
(121,485)
28,381
3,334,118

44

17 Funds (continued)

In the previous year the movements in the charity's funds were as follows:

Designated Funds
The Circuit Model Trust Fund
The Property Fund
The Beamsley Fund
General Unrestricted Funds
Total Unrestricted Funds		 Opening
balance
2024
£
372,020
12,500
24,636
409,156
2,615,258
3,024,415		 Incoming
resources
2024
£
22,689
-
12,853
35,542
673,265
708,807		 Outgoing
resources
2024
£
(51,782)
-
(7,193)
(58,975)
(632,193)
(691,167)		 Transfers
in the year
2024
£
243,464
-
-
243,464
(240,660)
2,804		 Gains and
Closing
losses
balance
2024
2024
£
£
108
586,499
-
12,500
-
30,296
108
629,295
-
2,415,671
108
3,044,967

45

17 Funds (continued)

Restricted Funds

CAP Fund
The Norwood Chapel and Retreat Centre Fund
Other small restricted funds
Aggregate of funds		 2,185
17,893
4,390
24,468
3,048,883		 16,427
15,201
-
31,628
740,435		 (9,800)
(8,022)
(473)
(18,296)
(709,463)		 -
(2,804)
-
(2,804)
-		 -
8,812
-
22,268
-
3,916
-
34,997
108
3,079,963

Analysis of net assets by fund

In the previous year, the assets and liabilities of the various funds were as follows:

Unrestricted Funds

Tangible fixed assets
Debtors
Investments held as current assets
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors falling due within one year		 General
funds
£
2,400,911
35,642
62,470
94,575
(177,927)
2,415,671		 Designated
funds
£
-
2,812
586,499
40,344
(360)
629,295		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
£
-
2,400,911
670
39,124
-
648,969
35,168
170,087
(841)
(179,128)
34,997
3,079,963

46

18 Transactions with related parties

During the year the charity:

Except as disclosed in note 8 'Analysis of staff costs', there have been no other transactions with related parties during the year.

47

WHARFEDALE & AIREBOROUGH METHODIST CHURCH CIRCUIT

DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES WITH COMPARATIVES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:
Donations and legacies
3
Charitable activities
4
Investments
5
Other Trading Activities
6
Other income
7
Total income and endowments
EXPENDITURE ON:
Charitable activities:
8
Total Expenditure
Net gains/(losses) on investments
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
17
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
17		 General
Designated
2025
2025
£
£
1,200
-
404,969
300,046
3,096
28,711
9,312
-
-
409,265
338,069
459,636
30,913
459,636
30,913
-
185
(50,371)
307,341
887,960
(884,160)
837,589
(576,819)
2,396,097
629,295
3,233,687
52,476
Unrestricted funds		 Restricted
2025
£
18,489
-
840
11,925
-
31,254
34,069
34,069
(2,815)
(3,800)
(6,615)
34,997
28,381		 Total
2025
£
19,689
705,015
32,647
21,237
-
778,588
524,618
524,618
185
254,155
-
254,155
3,060,389
3,314,544		 General
Designated
2024
2024
£
£
1,140
-
399,033
4,693
(16,481)
30,849
261,006
-
644,697
35,542
623,199
58,975
623,199
58,975
-
108
21,499
(23,325)
(240,660)
243,464
(219,161)
220,139
2,615,258
409,156
2,396,097
629,295
Unrestricted funds		 Restricted
Total
2024
2024
£
£
18,214
19,354
-
403,726
13,414
27,782
-
261,006
31,628
711,867
18,296
700,469
18,296
700,469
108
13,333
11,506
(2,804)
-
10,529
11,506
24,468
3,048,883
34,997
3,060,389

48