Charity number: 1132389
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL
PARISH OF
WADHURST
Wodhyi 5t
Tldobrook5tonegate
TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT
INCLUDING PAYMENT AND RECEIPTS ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR
ENDED
31 DECEMBER
2023

CONTENTS
CHURCH ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
PCC MEMBERSHIP
OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE IN 2022
BENEFITTO THE WIDER COMMUNITY
FINANCIAL REVIEW
14
SIGNATURE
14
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
15
RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT
16
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
17
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
18

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTS forthe year ended 31 DECEMBER2023
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Thechurch ofst Peter and St Paul:
Church Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6AA
The parish is part of the United BenefSce of Wadhurst, Tidebrook and Stonegate. The benefice is part
of the Diocese of Chichester within the Church of England.
Incumbent:
Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff
Correspondence address:
Carillon Cottage
High Street
Wadhurst
TN5 6AA
East Sussex
Charltsble status:
Wa(Ihurst PCC is an unincorporated charity registered with
the Charity Commission lcharity number 11323891 and is
governed by the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure
119561 as amended and Church Representation Rules, as
amended in 2020.
The Porochiul Church Council (PCC) presents its report, together wlth thefinancial statementsfor the
yeur ended 31 December2023.
The financlal statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting
Regulations 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER 2023
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
The Parochlal Church Council IPCCI
Members of the Parochial Church Council IPCCI are the trustees of the Charity. The PCC consists of
the Vicar, the ex officlo members, plus those elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting IAPCMI,
co-opted or otherwise appointed in accordance with the Church Representation Rules.
All members of the electoral roll are encouraged to consider standing for election to the PCC. Patrons
of the benefice may attend PCC meetings as obseNers.
The PCC is responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the
parish including decidin8 on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent.
PCC Members
During the year January to December 2023 the following served as members of the Wadhurst PCC..
Ex-offlcio members
Incumbent ond Chuir
Revd Dr Paul Ratcllff
Ruth Dunnett
Vanessa Sharman
Chris Bithell
Heather Ratcliff
Penny Dobson
Peter Thompson
Michael Hardcastle
Anne BriBnell
Vicar
Churchwarden
Churchwarden
Deanery Synod Rep
Deanery Synod Rep
Deanery Synod Rep and Lead Recruiter
Reader (retired May 20231
Chair of Carillon Cottage (retired September20231
Deputy Warden
Chair of Carillon Cottage from October 2023
Elected members
Lesley Wardrop
Miquela Walsh
Martin Lindsay
Anthony Dunnett
Mary Burstow
Paul Burstow
Paul Stephens
Lynda Wight
Safeguarding Officer Iretired May 20231
Member Iretired May 20231
Member (retired May 20231
Fabric ChaSr
Member
Member
Honorary Treasurer
Secretary
Revd Andrew Goyi Associate Vicar, is also entitled to attend Wadhurst PCC meetings.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTS forthe year ended 31 DECEMBER2023
Executive Committee
riees trh.e Ilic*r, +he
Churchwardens, the Honorary Treasurer, the PCC Secretary and one other representative of the PCC.
In 2023 this was Chris Bithell. This committee sets the agenda for PCC meetings and has the pov.'-- to
transact business ot) behalf of the PCC between its meetings, subject to d;,
Flnance Commlttee
The Finance Committee, whith includes the PCC Chair, the Honorary Treasurer, Church Wardenlsl and
two other members. reviews the forecasts, ongoing financial data and upcoming annual budget. In
2023, Peter Thomp50n and Anthony Dunnett Se￿ed as the 'other members, on this committee. The
PCC Secretary is in attendance.
Patrons
Michael Hardcastle Ichair of the Patronage Board)
Caroline Reid
John Bateup
Patrons may attend PCC meetings as observers If they wish.
PCC Meetlngs
In the year January to December 2023 six PCC meetings were held (January* February, March, July,
September, November) with an average attendance of 84%.
In addition, PCC members considered supporting information and voled on sE'-
on six occaslons.
Tho orr Ya<￿￿1￿￿11}iI1lII fnr tha f¢lY*ryill(5 gf rerF.ain ?cperts of Parish life to committees, which
report to the PCC and provide written summaries of their activities to each PCC meeting for discussion
and oversight. These groups include the Pastoral team, the Fellowship Committee, Carillon Cottage
and the Fabric Committee. The PCC a150 receives a report fiom the Pastoral A$515tant at each meetlng.
EMPLOYEES
The PCC employed Jean Sermon as Church Administratorto April 2023, when she retired after 16 years
of loyal service. Following a recruitment and interview process, Jemma Alderson was appointed Church
Administrator from April 2023.
The PCC employs Kat Fisher as the Pastoral Assistant for Families and Children, School Pastors
Coordinator and Youth Worker.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023
Robert Fuller is the church Organist and Choir Directorfor Sunday seNices. In November 2023, Phlllppa
Kirby was appointed Choral Director for special Services.
On 15 May 2023 Andrew Goywas licensed asAssociate Vicar forthe benefice, employed by the Diocese
of Chichester.
In 2023 Hollie Butler completed her curacy training as part of the Wadhurst church ministryteam, with
special responsibilities for supporting the Pastoral team, and left the parish in June 2023.
ELECTORAL ROLL
The church Electoral Roll, as at the annual meeting in May 2023, stood at 187 members. Four names
were added, two left the area and sadly five members had died since the previous electoral roll.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEMBER2023
OBJEcfivES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The PCC works with the Vicar to promote the whole mission of the church - pastoral, evangelical,
social, and ecumenical- in the ecclesiastical parish of Wadhurst.
M15sion Statement
Using the gifts God gives us, we..
bring others to Christ
deepen ourfoith in Him
develop the life of the churchfumity
serve each other ond the wider community
andso express our worship to God in every port of life
In furtherance of this mission. the PCC:
maintains the fabric of the parish church
is the beneficial owner of, and responsible for the activities conducted from, Carillon
Cottage, the church community centre in Wadhurst High Street
is the beneficial owner and managing trustee of St George's Hall in Sparrows Green
has oversight of the publication of Focus- the parish and community magazine
is the employer of the Parish Administrator
is the employer of a Pastoral Assistant for Families and Children and has oversight of the
ministry undertaken by the person in that role
is the employer of a School Pastor5 Coordinator and Youth Worker
In setting objectives and planning for activlties, the PCC has given due consideration to general
guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to 'public benefit,.
The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguardin8 and Clergy Discipline Measure
2016, fully recognising its duty to have due regard to the House of Bishops guidance on safeguarding
children and vulnerable adults.
The PCC has due regard for its Health and Safety responsibilities and for its responsibilities under the
GDPR.
The PCC has approved a suite of policies to contribute to good governance and these are reviewed on
an annual basis, and most are made available on the church website.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTS fortheyear ended 31 DECEMBER 2023
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE IN 2023
Mission and Evangelism
Mission Action Plan
The PCC has a Mission Action Plan which outlines its priorities for activities in the areas of Prayer and
Worship, Discipleship, Pastoral Care and Evangelism. An element of the MAP is highlighted and
discussed at each PCC meeting. These areas are underpSnned by Finance, Fabric and Communications
which are reviewed at every meeting and discussed as necessary as kre matters of governance such a5
Health and Safety and Safeguarding.
The MAP 15 reviewed by the PCC annually to set objectives for the year ahead.
Study t7nd Homegroups
The church ha5 a network of homegroups which meet weekly, through which the gospel is proclaimed,
and collective prayer and study are promoted. Two groups for men meet monthly.
A successful Alphu course was held on 12 Wednesday evenings and one Saturday in 2023 with 32
regular attendees, who enjoyed fellowship, teaching and mutual support.
Children (Jnd Young People
The church provides teaching for children in the church family aged 3-10 years at Sunday J Club and
for older children at a Sunday Youth club (known as Why). In addition, provision for chlldren across the
community is supplied through activities at Jellybeans Babies and Toddlers group and the weekday
after-school '1 Club,.
The Vicar makes regular visits to the local Church of England Prlmary school. The Vicar and his wife
lead weekly assemblies. The Youth Worker delivers'moving Up, talks to year 6 children.
In 2023, young people in the church in yeais 5 and above participated in youth events in the local area
and across the diocese. such as Maycamp and Youth for Christ events in Tunbridge Wells.
The church has a team of School Pastors who have continued their regular attendance at Uplands
Academy during the year.
Regulur Worship
The PCC aims to offer different styles of service each Sunday to enable as many people as possible
from the local community to experience accessible worship that is spiritually fulfilling for them. In
2023, these services have included a traditional Prayer Book Communion at 8am each Sunday, and an
All-Age servlce on the first Sunday of the month. The appointment of the Associate Vicar has allowed
Wadhurst Church to offer two Parish Holy Communion seNices each month. There is a150 a monthly
mid-week communion service. Evensong seNices were presented for significant occasSons such as
Harvest.
All-Age seNices and seNites of Morning Worship are led by members of the worship leadership team.
The Wadhurst congregation joins together wlth those in Tidebrook and Stonegate from time to time
for'3 as I, Se￿ices.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfortheyear ended 31 DECEMBER 2023
During the year attendances have increased overall. Whilst attendance at the 8am service fell by 50h,
at the mid-morning service attendance of adults on a normal Sunday rose by 20% and of children rose
by 13%.
Speciolservices
During the year ten baptism5, and five wedding5 and marriage blessing5 were celebrated, and 12
funerals and memorial seNices were held in the church. In addition, there were eight bLsrials of ashes
in the churchyard.
Special services were offered at major festiva15 (Christmas, Easterl and national events Isuch as
Remembrance) and these attracted attendance from across the villaBe.
The church also jolned with the local Roman Catholic Church for Churches Together in Wadhurst
services, including the Service of Christian Unity, the Good Friday Walk of Witrbess and an Advent Carol
Service.
The local primary school held Se￿ice$ in the church for Easter, for its School Leavers in July, at Harvest
and at Christmas.
The church has an active and growing team which is responsible for the arrangement of flowers in
church through the year and decorations for festivals and special services.
Proyer
Confidential prayer ministry continued to be offered after all the morning services.
Beneflce-wide Saturday morning prayer meetings were held in Carillon Cottage or at Tidebrook
Church. There 15 also a church Prayer for Healing group.
Fellowship
The congregation joined together in special fellowship events during 2023, including refreshments at
the licensing of Andrew Goy, a bring-and-share picnic to say farewell to Hollie Butler and her family, a
cake decorating session and a HaNest lunch. The group has also ensured that refreshments were
available after the 10.30am services and at special services throughout the year.
Pastoral Care
The Vicar continued to maintain contart with all pari5hior)ers through weekly email and regular
telephone calls and visits.
The volunteer activity co-ordinated by Carillon Cottage supports the church famlly and the local
community with shopping, drives to hospital visits and a range of other se￿iCe5.
A Pastoral Group oversees pastoral care given across the community. Voltjnteers visit those in need
and the housebound to deliver Holy Communion. A partlcular relationship has been established with
Wadhurst Manor Care Home. The training materials developed by Wadhurst church for this initiative
are being used by other churches in the Deanery who wish to set up similar teams.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANGIALSTATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023
Deanery Synod
The church has four places on the Rotherfield Deanery Synod. This provides the PCC with an important
link between the parish and the wider structures of the church.
Fabri¢ and churchyard
Maintenance of the church fabric continued in line with the recommendations of the QuSnquennSal
report. Attention has been paid over the year to ensure an ethical green ener8V Supply.
Plans for the churchyard have evolved in 2023, with proposals to create a garden space with views
over Bewl Water and rebuild the main path through the churchyard with a border for burials of ashes
and new trees. The whole churchyard will also be managed in an ecologically friendly way.
The PCC is also considering options for the replacement of the aBillB gas-fired heating system with an
air source heat pump solution in line with a commitment to achieving Carbon Zero ICOI by 2030.
Envlronmental Issues
The ECO-CO Working Group consists of
representatives of the three churches in the
benefice plus Carillon Cottage. In 2023
Wadhurst church was awarded a Silver ECO
Award from A Rocha.
The group has met with the local Catholic church to share ideas and best practice.
Communications
There has been active and regular use of the Facebook page to publicise services and event5. These
posts have attracted a lot of attention from the local communitvi playing a significant role in attracting
people to Christmas and other special seNices, such as the 'Remembering Loved Ones, service.
The PCC has had an increased presence on A Church Neor You website during this year.
Flnances
The PCC has continued to have prudent management of the church's finances.
A special PCC meeting was held in February to discuss a programme of cost containment and ways to
increase income. The PCC has activety sought donatlons and grants from a variety of Sources to help
support its objectives.
Members of the congregation were kept informed of the financial position through presentations and
leaflets and a successful stewardship campaign was held in the autumn.
The church has been able to turn a projected £45k deficit into a £31k surplus and so has been able to
meet its commitments and continue with charitable giving and support to members of the local
community.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL. WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER2023
8ENEFITTOTHE WIDER COMMUNITY
Wadhurst church aspires to be at the heart of the local community and to manifest loving service to
that comfflunity in numerous ways.
Church building und churchyord
The PCC maintains St Peter and St Paul's
churchyard in good order for the benefit of the
wider community. The churchyard is a popular
place for dog walkers and for people to Slt away
from the bustle of the High Street. The PCC has
worked with local nature and environmental
groups to develop 'wild' area5, to encourage
the swift population and to open up views from
the churchyard towards Bewl Water, for the
greater enjoyment of visitors.
In 2023, the church took part in the annual'Ride and Stride, event In Sussex. This is a national initiative
which encourages participants to get sponsorship to walk or ride Ibike, horse, car, electric buggyl to
churches across their county. Funds raised are shared between Sussex Historic Churches Trust and the
local church. Both our Youth Group and residents of Crittles Court contributed to the event and a rota
of members of the congregation welcomed visitors to the church.
The church building is open daily for quiet reflection and prayer, which is welcomed by visitors from
the local community, from across the UK, and as far afield as the United States and New Zealand..
'Mu¢h needed iiiomenl lo hreaihe, Ihankyoii M, Wadhursl
A JAKJLiuli3luce ofpcaLe. Gi-cjul l(?.iee involvemenl ihe community, RD, Bucks
'Thapikyou.foi' voiii- )Ipelcopiie' A&N, Brussels
'Li)}pL'ly Icy hLJ (Ihle In cniiie inlo Gc)d ,%' hiyii,se lo find.ftreiiRih cind ef)n.%olalion' AM, w￿￿1111r.￿l
The 'Food Shelves, in the church, freely accessible during dayliBht hours to those in need in the local
community, saw increased use in 2023. The church and Carillon Cottage are also locations for Nourish
foodbank collections.
The church building hosts 'Dads on Saturdays, monthly - an opportunity for male carers and their
children to meet up in an informal way. It also hosts Jellybeans babies and toddler5, group weekly,
and the J Club after-school club weekly during term time.
The church is also available for local arts initiatives and concerts by local choirs, the Wadhurst Brass
Band and other musicians. It has also been used by local groups such as '8rownies' for their regular
meetings.
The church and village benefit from an active team of bellringers who practlse weekly in church. They
ring for several Sunday seNlces each month and for special occasions. They train new recruits and
offer hospitality to other bellringing groups who visit.

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER 2023
Curlllon Cottuqe
For over 20 years the Wadhurst PCC has had responsibility for the activities run from this location on
Wadhurst High Street.
The volunteers in the Cottage coordinate a driving service for healthcare appointments acro55 Kent
and Sussex and offer a monthly hearing aid clinic. The Cottage team issues a Welcome Pack to
newcomers to the area, has a directory of tourist and local information seNices and sells ticket5 for
local events run by community groups such as Wodhurst Warriors and local choirs.
Meeting rooms and the garden at the Cottage are available for local groups to hire and have seen
increased use during 2023, for groups as diverse as U3A interest groups, training sessions, the Cygnet5
to Swons drama group, and committee meetings of local charities including The Rose Trust and Mullins
Memorial Fund.
An open Welcome Space is made available at the Cottage for anyone to attend during the winter
months, for company and light refreshment5.
Conversation classes for refugees from Ukraine have continued in 2023 and seNe an additional useful
purpose in bringing members of this community together sociallv.
The annual Open Gardens weekend took place in 2023 and is a highlight of the village calendar, with
gardens acros5 the parish open to all, and teas served in the church building. It raised over £7.000 to
support the maintenance and running costs of the Cottage.
Chlldren's work
Jellybeons, a babies and toddlers, group regularly attract5 UP to 60 people every week. They valtje the
provision of a safe space, with a listeningi caring ear and games, stories and activities for the youngest.
It is supported by a team of volunteers across the age range.
J-club is a weekly after-school club hosted by the church during term time, attracting families that do
not attend church. Volunteers supervise a 'walking bus, service from school to church, where activitie5
and healthy snacks are provided.
Special events are also arranged for children in the community, including opportunities to be part of a
Nativity event. A 'Light Party, in October had 'lighthouses' as its theme and attracted around 90
attendees from the local Community- as well as the Bishop of Muyinga lin Burundi) who was visiting
at the time.
Young people
During the year excursions to events foryoung people have been arranged and have been open to any
young person in our community.
A team of School Pastors is in place, supported by a Prayer Pastors group. They attend Uplands
Academy in break times to be a non-judgemental listening ear for pupils land staff members).
io

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfoitheyear ended 31 DECEMBER 2023
Schools
The church activety supports the church-affiliated local primary school. Wadhurst CE Primary School
governing body has three foundation governors from the church. The church also helps to run
Christian lunch club called Starguzers. Leavers are presented with Bibles in the summer.
The Vicar runs Religious Education coaching sessions for the staff, covering the subjects in the RE
syllabus.
Each child at both schools in the village (primary and secondary) in receipt of free sch¢)ol meals was
given a £10 supermarket voucher for Easter. This was entirely funded by donations from church
members.
Older people
Come And Meet Each Other, or CAMEO, Is a weekly club for the elderly, with a hot meal followed by
games, activities, or a guest speaker. The sessions include 'armchair exercises, for the attendees,
musical entertainment, or crafting sessions. CAMEO is run by a team of volunteers and welcomes up
to 25 members each week. Volunteer drivers collect the guests and take them home.
In addition, Afternoon Fellowship meets monthly for worship* fellowship and refreshments. A guest
speaker is invited to talk on topics of interest to the group, which is mainly older frople, althouBh
anyone in the community is invited to attend.
A'senior Lunch, is held twice a year for around 50-60 attendees.
Pustorttl cure
The Pastoral Care tean) makes regular visits to
those in the village who feel lonely and isolated,
to deliver Holy Communion or simply to talk.
Monthly Sunday services are held at Wadhurst
Manor Care Home and residents are also visited
in their room for prayer or just conversation.
Community mogozlne
Focus, the Wadhurst parish magazine, is distributed by a team of volunteers throughout the village. It
offers a directory of Se￿iceS and support. an events diary and a means for local authorities (such as
the Parish Covncill, the local MP, local clubs and societies, the two Wadhurst schools and Stonegate
Primary School to communicate with the wider community.
Community engagement
The church and Carillon Cottage had a presence at the village Coronation celebrations, providing
information and a C￿Che for yotjnger children.
Copies of Crowned King book were made available to the church family and anyone visiting the church
premises at the time of the Coronation, as a memento of the occasion.
li

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER 2023
To mark the King's Coronation, the church
organised a Barn
Dance in the local
Commemoratlon Hall for everyone in the local
community to attend, which was a great
success.
Carillon Cottage partitipated in the Wadhurst traders, Christmas Late Night Opening event, distributing
information, welcoming visitors and participating in the children's trail and colouring competitions.
The young people from the church made and sold tree decorations and bracelets in support of a 'toilet
twinning, initiative with toilets in Nepal and South Sudan.
Charitable support
The church and PCC seek to contribute in financial terms to the Mission of God locally, nationa15y and
globally. In 2023, the PCC gave a total of £15,752 to a range of local, national and international
charities.
Special collections were also made at many 5eNices to supporl charities, including The Children s
Society at Christingle and Crisis at the Carol SeNice.
Due to a long-standing relationship between Wadhurst church and Burundi, the church family
responded generotjsly to a plea for donations to help repair the roof of the church in Burundi, sending
£2,000 to pay for roofing materials.
In addition to financial gifts, the church supports charities in many other ways.
A collection of toys, gifts and money was made for Diocesan Family Support Work to support needv
families in the wider community over the Chrlstmas period.
Hurvest Festival parcels were distributed to the needy across the village.
In addition. vouchers were distributed to local families in need, and there is a 'Vicarfs Discretlonary
Fund, to allow rapid response to crises.
Carillon Cottage co-ordinated a collection of candle stubs from the local community which were taken
to the 'Roy of Hope, charity for making into trench candles for Ukralne.
The Cottage is also a centre for collection of other items which are recycled in aid of various charlties,
such as ink cartridges and plastic bottle tops.
12

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIALSTATEMENTS forthe yeaw ended 31 DECEMBER 2023
St George's Ht711
This Church-owned community hall in the Sparrows Green area of the village has been a resource for
the community since 1927. The property has been designated an 'Asset of Community Value, by the
local council.
The Hall was closed during the Covid pandemic in 2020, and due to deterioration in its condition the
decision was made to extend the closure, pending a decision on the most suitable way forward. During
2023 the PCC held discussions with Wadhurst Parish Council IWPCI on the terms by which WPC could
purchase the property and use it as a facility for the people of Wadhurst. These negotiations are
expected to conclude in 2024.
13

Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX
ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEM8ER 2023
FINANCIAL REVIEW
The financial statement5 are presented using the Receipts and Payments basis, in accordance with the
Church Accounting Regulations 2006.
Total income from unrestricted general funds were £184,12112022: £163,122).
Expenditure on unrestrirted artivities was £161,57112022'. £159,521). This includes the contribution
to the (liocesan parish share of £61,44012022: £56,038).
The year showed a surplus of £22,550 on unrestricted activities12022: surplus of £3,601).
With the exception of the School Pastors & Youth Worker role, all Restrlcted funds were self-financing.
RESERVES POLICY
At 31 December 2023 the unrestricted free cash reserves stood at £81,32512022.' £58,775).
The PCC aims to retain three months of annual general unrestricted funds expenditure in free reseNes.
DECLARATION
The PCC trustees declare that they have approved the PCC annual report above.
SIGNED ON BEHALF OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL:
Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff
Chair of Wadhurst PCC
Vicar of Wadhurst, Tidebrook and Stonegate
14

Charity Number 1132389 

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX 

## **ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023** 

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Wadhurst (‘the Charity’) for the year ended 31 December 2023. 

## **Responsibilities and basis of report** 

As the Charity’s trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’). 

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act. 

## **Independent examiner’s statement** 

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect: 

1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or 

2. the accounts do not accord with those records. 

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 


……………………………………….. 

## **Amy Healey FCA CTA DChA** 

**Lindeyer Francis Ferguson Limited** Chartered Accountants North House, 198 High Street Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BE 

Date: 8 May 2024 

15 



PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
2023
2023
Total
Funds
2023
Total
Funds
2022
Note
Receipts from:
Donations and legacies
Church Activities
Investments
161,371
19,698
3,052
11,516
172,887
19,698
3,052
6,552
1.680
24,062
5.660
4,778
3,050
241,419
157,374
13,946
2,421
16,854
1,223
18,161
6,520
4,215
17,075
237,789
Grants
Families and Children's Worker
Carillon Cottage income
Burundi donations
Cameo income
School Pastors and Youth Worker
Gros5 incorne
6,552
1,680
24,062
5,660
4,778
3,050
57,298
184,121
Asset and investment sales;
Insurance claims- capital
19,461
Total Income
184,121
57,298
241,419
257,250
Payments on:
Church Activities
Asset and investment purchases (purchase of sound
system)
Total payments
161,571
48,780
210,351
259,076
10,236
161,571
48,780
210,351
269,312
Surplus / Ideflcitl for the year
22,550
8,518
31,068
12,062
Cash balances brought forward
58,775
31,148
89,923
101,985
Cash balances carrled forward
io
81.325
39,666
120.991
89.923
16

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
ASAT 31 DECEMBER 2023
Unrestrlcted Restrlcted
Funds
Funds
2023
2023
Total
Funds
2023
Total
Funds
2022
Note
Bank current accounts
Deposit accounts
Less monies held as agent
Cash funds
44,239
37,277
11911
81,325
39,666
83,905
37,277
11911
120,991
55,121
35,100
12981
89.923
39,666
Other Monetary assets
5,570
5,570
3,711
Investment assets
71,934
71,934
66.686
Assets retained for church use
347,729
20,000
367,729
367,729
Liabilities
11,3091
11,3091
12,1551
The receipts and payments account and statement of assets and liabilities were approved by the
members onQ.S.M .&LWnd signed on their behalf by..
Rev'd Dr Paul
at¢liff
Paul Stephens- H
norary Treasurer
Vl¢ar and Chair of the Wadhurst pcc
Member of the Commlttee
17

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
I Preparatlon of accounts
The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting
Regulatlons 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis. The accounts are presented in pound sterllng
and rounded to the nearest £1.
2 Donations
2023
2022
Collections
Plarkned givlng and parish giving
Donations
Legacles
Income tax recovered
20,658
82,234
47,245
10,000
12,750
172,887
5,623
82,959
43,345
15,000
10,447
157,374
Unrestrlcted Restrlcted
fund5
funds
2023
2023
Total
funds
2023
Total
funds
2022
3 Payments
CharStable glving & vouchers (note 41
Diocesan parlsh contrSbutSon
Other clergy costs
Church running expenses
Church maintenance & repairs
Vicarage
Upkeep of churchyard
Upkeep of services
Training and education
Outreach
Focu5 Magazine expenditure
Salaries
St. George's Hall
Carillon Cottage
Burundi fund charltable giving Inote 41
Cameo
School Pastor and Youth Worker's expenses
Governance cost5.' Independent examiner's fee
15,752
61,440
3,490
24,685
2,138
4,775
1,760
14,180
717
694
15,752 ,
61,440
3.490
26,266
2,690
4.775
7,760
14,180
717
14,083
56,038
3,008
14,316
53,247
3,848
6,736
10,062
7,135
3,887
620
40,313
6,855
23,879
7,000
3,895
794
3,360
1,581
552
6,000
694
29,600
8,693
38,293
19,306
5,400
7,248
19,306
5,400
7,248
2,340
2,340
Total
ments
161,571
48,780
210,351
259,076
18

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
4 Charitable Giving
The followSng donations to missions and charities were made in the year
2023
2022
Locul Chorities
Tunbrldge Wells Youth for Christ
Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors
Nourish Community Foodbank
UK Chorities
Diocesan Family Support Work
The Children's Society
Church Army
Church Pastoral Aid Society
Bible Society
Ride & Stride
Overseos Charities
Burundi
Church Misslon Society
Cr0$51ink5
Tearfund
Release International
850
850
625
850
850
625
1,200
850
1,800
1,200
700
1,064
1,200
850
1,800
1,200
700
879
1,200
1,500
800
800
14,318
844
590
15,752
1,200
1,500
800
800
12,375
988
720
School Leavers, Blbles
ChrSstmas vouchers
14,083
In addStlon, donations were made from Restricted funds to Burundi of £5,4tX)12022- £7,000).
19

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
5 Monies held as agent
These include fees collected on behalf of the Di0￿Se by St Peter and St Paul, Stonegate and Tidebrook
churches at weddings and funerals, and special collection5.
6 Other monetary assets
2023
2022
Gift aid recoverable
Other debtors
5,276
294
5,570
3,711
3,711
7 Investment$
2023
Market value at l January 2023
Revaluation
Market value at 31 December 2023
66,686
5,248
71,934
All investments are held in CBF Church of England Funds and are stated at market value. Trust funds are
invested through the Diocesan Board of Finance and include the Watson-smyth Trust and Parish General
Fund. They also include the Laufens/Watson-Smyth Churchyard Fund. The capital represented by these
holdings is freely available to the PCC and is therefore unrestricted.
Other funds (not included in accountsl
Chancel Trusts.. The Diocese maintain5, as a permanent trust for the Parish under the Tithe Act, a holding
of 196.74 CBF Investment Fund - Income Shares (value at 31 December 2023, £4,44712022.. £4,06511
accumulated income from which may be used to defray the cost of repairs to the fabric of the chancel
and the Church. The Diocese has conflrmed that the accumulaled income Is held by CBF as custodian
trustee and 15 freely available to the PCC.
8 Assets retalned for church use
Assets retained for church use include the freehold property at Carillon Cottage purchased in 1999 and
St. George's Hall at cost.
9 Llabllltles
2023
2022
Taxation and social 5ecurlty
1,309
2,155
20

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
10 Statement of cash funds held
Brought
forwanl
Corry
forward
Income
Expendlture
Tronsler
Unrestricted cash funds
Designated cash funds..
Fabric fund
Unrestricted cash funds
27,366
31,409
58,775
14,0001
1157,5711
1161,5711
23,366
57,959
81,325
184,121
184,121
Restricted cash funds:
Carillon Cottage
Burundi fund
CommunScations fund
Cameo
School Pastors and Youth Worker
Fabric Fund
Families and Children's worker
Upkeep of church yard grant
Energy grant
Listed places of worship grant
Choir Fund
17,950
1,686
255
5,713
3.963
24,062
5,660
119,3061
15,4001
22,706
1,946
255
3,243
4,778
3,050
io,(x)o
1,680
6,000
17,2481
17,0131
10,000
11,6801
16,0001
11,5811
15521
1,581
552
1,516
57,298
1,516
39,666
31,148
148,7801
89,923
241,419
210 351
120,991
Designated Funds:
Fobricfund..
This fund is for the QL¢inquennlal, five-year cyclical maintenance of the church premises.
Restricted fund5:
Corillon Cottoge..
The Carillon Cottage fund represents the income and expenditure account for the activities run from
Carillon Cottage. Thls property was purchased by the church in 1999 and in addition to the church
administration office and meeting rooms, provides the base for a range of support servlces for the local
community. Income is derived from fund-raising activitie5 and donations made by users of the services.
Burundi fund..
The Burundi fund includes donations received for the speclflc purpose of furtherlng the alms of the
Wadhurst-Burundi link.
Communicotionsfund.-
The communications fund include5 donations towards Improvements to church communications and
marketing.
21

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WAOHURST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
10 Statement of cash funds held Icontlnuedl
C(7meo.'
The PCC took over the responsibility for this fund from the Wadhurst Methodist Church Council In Mav
2015, following the closure of Wadhurst Methodlst Church. The Cameo fund provldes the finances for
weekly lunches and other Social actlvities for senior citizens at the Commemoration Hall, Hlgh Street,
Wadhurst.
School Pastors and Youth Worker..
This fund was set up to provide for the appointment of a School Pastor and Youth Worker, who leads
team of volunteer school pastors who visits the local Community College. The p051tion was part funded
by a Diocesan Mission @rant received in the previous two years. Thi5 grant has now been fully expensed.
Fubric Fund
These relate to specific donations and legacies towards the repair and malntenance of the church. These
are fully covered by expenditure in the year.
Families ond Children's Worker
A number of donations were received to fund the role of the Families and Children's Worker. Thls income
ha5 been fully expensed on salarie5 for the year.
Upkeep of church yard grant
A grant was received from Wadhurst Parish Council in the year towards the upkeep of the churchyard.
This was fully expensed.
Energy grunt
During the previous year a grant was provided to assist with heat and light costs within the church. This
was fully spent in the year.
Listed Ploce of Worship gront
A grant was received in the year towards the VAT paid on repairs to the Church whlch was fully spent in
the year.
Choir Fund
Durin8 the year p8yments to choir members who sang for weddings and funerals were collected and
donated to the PCC to be used for much needed storage for the choir music archive.
22