Great St Mary's Sawbridgeworth THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 December 2024 Aurora over Great St Mary's, May 2024
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charlty 1132562 Contents Annual Report Introduction from the Churchwardens Alm and purpose Our church community Mlssion and giving Outreach Spellbrook CofE prlmary School Fundraising Plans for future perlods Financlal review Going concern Reserves policy Rlsk management Structure. governance and management Admln15trative information 3-12 12 Independent Examiner's Report Statement of Financial Activities 13 14 Balance Sheet 15 Notes to the Financial Statements 16-23 *}
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Reglstered Charity 1132562 Annual Report for 2024 Introduction from the Churchwardens This report is written at the end of an unexpectedly challenging year at Great St Mary's. Father Simon Vivian announced his resignation in the summer and was licensed at All Saints Hockerill, Bishop's Stortford in September 2024, leaving us without a Vicar since the start of the summer holidays. Despite this, we have managed to hold at least one Eucharist each week, with our Lay Reader, Diana Kitson leading a Service of the Word on the three Sundays when a Eucharist was not possible. We continued our monthly Mustard Seed services until autumn, and held well-attended services on St George's Day, the annual Civic seNice and on Remembrance Sunday. During February and March, Father Simon led a thought-provoking Lent course. The post of Associate Minister (House for Duty) has been vacant since Revd Debbie Hore left in 2023. We are, therefore, delighted to announce that Revd Canon Robert Riley-Braley I will be joining us in the spring of 2025. He is currently Vicar of St Oswald's, Croxley Green. Another successful recruitment story is the appointment of our new Musical Director and Organist, Jonathan Palman, who officially started in the post in January in 2025, but accompanied the choir at rehearsals since November, so is already part of the team. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jane, Bishop of Hertford, Archdeacon Janet and all the visiting clergy who have supported us since Father Simon's departure and officiated at seNices, some traveling great distances. We also thank the freelance organists who have played at our Services and accompanied choir rehearsals since our previous Musical Director left us in Ju ly 2022. The church calendar during 2024 was extremely busy with various events, includ ing the May Day fair featuring a Teddy Bear Zip Wire from the top of the church tower, a Quiz night and a Murder Mystery night (which, due to its popularity, has already been booked for next year at a larger venue). The Flower Festival at the start of the summer holidays, on the theme of children's books, was well attended. We held our usual Patronal lu nch, and we celebrated Diana's 30 years as Lay Reader with a special service presided over by Bishop Jane. During the vacancy, Diana was a consistent presence at services, supporting the visiti ng priests and maintaining the midweek and Sunday 8am congregations with a SeNice of the Word. Simply put, these additional services would not have happened if it were not for Diana's continued commitment and devotion to Great St Mary's, for which everyone is thankful. The Advent and Christmas period was a busy time, with the Festival of Light attracting around 2,000 visitors. All church services saw increased attendance, particu larry the candlelit services of Advent and Christmas Carols. The Advent lunch featured the year's biggest raffle, raising over £700 for The Children's Society. The second annual Christma5 Tree Festival was well attended, with almost 40 trees on .1 display. The winners were the Ukrainian Group with their traditional Ukrainian decorated baubles, Wlth the Red Squirrels of the 1st Sawbridgeworth Scouts and Spellbrook School coming second and third.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 Music has always been important at Great St Mary's. Our small choir was led by Rosemary Harrison, who stepped up following Father Simon's resignation, ably assisted by Jane Johnson in 50rting out the music for services. We extend a huge • thank you to both. We also thank Fred Bone in his first year as Tower Captain and al I the bell ringers who call u5 to worship every su nday and at all major events. And a huge thanks to Angela Kenny, Parish Administrator, who has helped to keep us going during the vacancy. Special thanks go to Shirley Dodgshon, who stepped down as Head Sacristan at the end of the year after an impressive 43 years of service. We were delighted to receive and bless a new glass cruet that Shirley gave to the church as a parting gifL Sandie Abery is now our Head Sacristan. Our thanks go to the entire church community for their ongoing support, particularly those who quietly contribute so much time to keep things goi ng: the flower arrangers, cleaners, churchyard working party. oil lamp fillers, hymn number changers, sacristans, helpers at Sunday Club and Mustard Seed, candle preparers, altar cloth changers, and many more. We deeply appreciate your efforts. A special thanks to those who sit on the PCC and the sub-committees, appointed officials and a I I who give their time to the church in any way at all. Our work on re-imaging the church building and Church House continues, with discussions with ou r architect and the Diocese now well-advanced and shared with the congregation in February 2025. While the vacancy has been challenging, with the Parish profile finalised and the advert going live at the end of 2024, we are praying and looking foward to 2025 with great optimism and hope. iffy Siuire AnAAnfAony KeAr Aim and purpose The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Sawbridgeworth I'the PCC") is registered as a separate charity, number 1132562. The members of the PCC have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benef it. The primary object of the PCC is to promote the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC has the responsibility of co-operati ng with the I ncumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church - pastoral, eva ngelistic, social and ecumenical. It fulfils this responsi bility through periodic meetings and a range of other activities. Our church community As at the end of 2024, there were 114 people entered on the church Electoral Roll, 18 of whom were not resident within the parish. We were pleased to welcome new regular worsh ippers and visitors. We hold in our prayers those who no longer worship with us regularly or who moved away during 2024.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 During 2024 we baptised six children and married one couple. We wish them joy and love on life's journey. We conducted 28 funera Is122 i n the church) and seven interments. Our dearfriends are remembered with love, and we keep their families in our prayers. They include Mick Steward who, with Kathy, led Tiny Tots for many years, Barry Ings, previously hall caretaker and Roy Ward, chorister. A blg thonk you to our Pastoral volunteers and others who support people in times of need. In May 2024, Angela Alder was given the Freedom of Sawbridgeworth, in recognition of the many ways she has represented the town and church, and over many decades. A fitting way of honouring a di l igent and loya I servant. Mission and giving It is PCC policy to give a percentage of regular committed stewardship plus tax recoverable lin 2024, unchanged at 10% - see page 6 for future periods) to other charitable causes, of which 600 is allocated to overseas causes and 409¢+ to U,K. causes. Details of the amounts given in 2024 from 2023 stewardship income are detailed in note 10 to the financial statements. Charities supported in this way were Shiksha Rath, Tools with a Mission and the Holy Trinity Night Shelter Bishop's Stortford. In addition, whenever possible throughout the year, the PCC made collections a nd undertook fundraising for specific causes. Deta ils of payments made are also detailed in note 10. Shik5ho Rath runs o Christian OLJtreoch project in New Delhi to help children from deprived areas Lrccess educolion ¢75 0 roule out of poverty. Outreach As well as our large outreach events, the Friday Email offers thoughts, prayers, information on our week's services. and notices. This, like the Great St Mary'5 Facebook group, is read both by members within our worshipping community and others who live in Sawbridgeworth and beyond. Volunteers continued to do a splendid job organising collections of food to support the Harlow Foodbank, whose existing and new customers needed their services more than ever. These collections were enhanced at harvest time with donations from Spellbrook Primary School our church school who brought their offerings to their own haNest service. We held Christmas services for our three primary schools - Mandeville, Reed ings and Spellbrook - at which the church was packed. Spellbrook CofE Primary School Spellbrook School is ou r volu nta ry-controlled Church of England primary school. It is legally owned by the trustees of its Church of England foundation but is controlled by Hertfordshire Local Education Authority which has full fina ncia I responsibility for its maintenance. The school's mission is to provide the best education for each child withi n the context of a caring Christian community.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charlty 1132562 Great St Mary's Church is represented on its governing body and fosters links between the school, the church and the local community. The Incumbent is, ex officio, a foundation governor and the Diocese, in liaison with the PCC, appoints a second foundation governor. Fay Clark stepped down after 15 years of service, forwhich we to express our considerable thanks. Becky Burton took on the post from March 2025. Of equal importance is the regular connection between the church and the School, with the leading of collective worship in school and classes on religious or ethical topics, attending school events, and writing a pause for thought for the school newsletter. In May 2024, the school received an excellent report from the SIAMS inspectors and capped off the year by taking third place at our Christmas Tree festival. Fundraising Section 162a of the Charities Act 2011 requires charities to make a statement regarding fundraising activities. We confirm that all solicitations are managed internally, without involvement of com mercial participators, professional fundraisers or third parties. The day-to-day management of al l income generation is delegated to the Vicar, Churchwardens and appointed officials (see pages 11 and 12). Although the Charity is not required to be bound by any regulatory scheme, the Charity complies with the relevant codes of practice. We have received no compla ints in relation to f undraising activities12023'. none). Add4t4¢Mal financial support was received. wlth thanks. from Sawbridgeworth E¢cle$4astical Charlty and others. Plans for future periods We look fOard to a positive outcome to our search for a new Incumbent and to welcoming our new Associate Priest. We shall continue to build all aspects of our activities, seeking to provide for all generations and needs. The Outreach Committee has even more ambitious plans for 2025. The Re-imagining 2025 Projett Group will pursue the proposals for work on and around the church's West door, as phase 1 of the project, and improvements to Church House. We will commission a report on the current stste of the church organ and refurbishment options. We will finalise the process of handing over the maintenance of the churchyard to the local authority. In all our activities, we will seek to reduce our carbon emissions and consider other environmentsl impacts, with reference to the "Eco Church framework" The marked shift from ad hoc to planned giving (see page 16), while providing welcome certainty of income, gives rise to a 33*0 increase in the amount of mission giving for 2025. Given continued loss-making (see below), the PCC agreed in February 2025 that the calculation of mission giving in 2026 (from 2025 planned giving) will revert to a previous level of 7.5°kn. The actual amount given will then be in line with the amount given in 2024. Financial Review Rental income from The Lodge net of rental agent and maintenance costs increased our income by over £11,000, and fundraising net of costs yielded over £5,000. Across all four properties, we spent £71,452, £30,000 less than in 2023, of which £7,400 wa5 due to a fall in energy costs.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 There was a loss of £39.339 on day-to-day income and expendlture (excluding investment income} but net (nftow of £72.722 to the restricted fund. The position would have been worse had it not been for the commitment of our church comrnunity and generosity of other donors and grant-making bodies. At the end of the year, our investments with CCLA would have increased in value by £21,704, but £30,000 was redeemed in December to meet the deficit and expected invoices on estate works. Investment income was £24,405, up slightly on the previous year. Overall, therefore, there was a small net in¢rease In our total funds of £Y9.492. The investment policy is considered at regular intervals by the Stewardship & Finance Committee and the PCC. Both investment funds are actively managed, allowing CCLA to anticipate or respond to market developments. Going Concern Looking forward to 2025, predicted work on the estate is expected to be lower than in recent years (ahead of major works planned as part of the Re-imagining 2025 project - see page 111, there has been a fall in regular hall hirers and there will be a loss of rental income from The Lodge. Therefore, regu lar income versus expenditure is predicted to result in a deflclt of about £50.000. Depending on the findings of the report on the church organ, this figure could be substantially higher. The figure excludes any capital gain or loss on investment, noting that when i nvestments are redeemed to help fund expenditure, not only is capital reduced but also income from those investments. The PCC believes it is fi nancially viable for the next 12 months, even if there is significant expenditure on the estate. The general unrestricted reserves balance remains above the appropriate level of reserves and is sufficient for activities to be mai ntained for 12 months. Reserves policy The accounting rules under which the financial statements are prepared require funds to be analysed between those thac on the one hand, are restricted to specific purposes and those that, on the other hand, are unrestricted. Restricted funds corr prise special collections and other fundraisi ng activity for specific causes, together with fundraising and g rants for certain fabric and insurance costs. Unrestricted funds comprise all other funds, which may be designated for various purposes. The PCC has designated three unrestricted fu nds.. a property capital fund, which at all times equals the balance sheet value of the properties a legacy capital fund, being the accumulation of legacies received a general fund containing the balance The PCC considers that the amount of reserves necessary to ensure the work of the church continues at present levels is around £192,000 this amounts to approximately 12 months of recurring expenditure, excluding mission g iving a nd payments to specific causes. As the unrestricted genera I fund stood at £362,824 at 31 December 2024 (see page 15,. £358,966 at the end of 2023), there wa5 an excess ofjust over £170,000, which is held to finance working capital and capital projects. Restricted funds at 31 December 2024 stood at £12,88012022'. £158). Risk Management The PCC recognises that i n areas relating to health and safety, the safeguardi ng of child ren and vulnerable adults, and the security of physical and financial assets, IT systems and data protection, there is always a potential threat. We reviewed a I l our risk management and related policies during 2024.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charlty 1132562 Structure. governance and management The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The PCC met seven times in 2024, all meetings were conducted in person, and average attendance was 72%. In addition to routine business (which included regular Health & Safety, Safeguarding, Estate and Financial reports), major items of business included.. Agreeing recipients of mission giving from 2023 stewardship Receiving the Annual Report and Financial Statements for 2023 Holding a section 11 meeting to begin the process of advertising for a new Incumbent, and approving an updated Parish Profile document Agreeing a phased approach to the re-imagining of the church building and that phase 1 should focus on accessibility and opening of the West door Appointing a new Organist and Director of Music Ensuring the PCC'S commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and to addressing wider environmental impacts was considered across all its activities and through its committees, on an ongoing basis Safvguardlng At the end of 2024, Hazel Mead stood down a5 our Assistant Parish Safeguarding Officer. We are very grateful to Hazel for her many years of seNice, The PCC complied with its duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy D15cipline Measure 2076 to have due regard to the House of Bishops, Guidance on safeguarding chi Idren and vu Inerable adults. During 2024, we reviewed our Safeguarding Policy, Action Plan, Volunteer Code of Conduct, safeguarding information on the chu rch website and use of social media. We reviewed our training and reporting in line with new Church of Eng land National Safeguarding Standards and issued new materia Is to volunteers. Data protection The PCC complied with the requirements of the General Dato Protection Regulation, We undertook a full refresh of our consent forms, and reviewed our Data Protection and Records Management Policy and the Data Privacy Notice on the church website. The PCC 5 responsibilitles The PCC is responsible for preparing the Annual Report and Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and Un ited Ki ngdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. The PCC is required to prepare financial statements for each fina ncial year that give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the PCC and of the financial activitie5 of the PCC for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the PCC members are required to.. Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently ObseNe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP 2019 IFRS 102) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent State whether a ppl icable accounting standards and statements of recom mended practice have been followed, subject to a ny departures disclosed and explained in the fi nancial statements Prepare the financial statements on the going-concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the PCC wil I continue i n operation
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Reglstered Charity 1132562 The PCC is responsible for keeping proper books and accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the fi nancial position of the PCC, and that enable it to ensure the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. It is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the PCC and, hence, for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other i rregu larities. The PCC members confirm that, so far as they are aware, there is no relevant information of which the PCC'S independent examiners are unaware. They have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken as PCC members to make themselves aware of any relevant information and to establish that the PCC'S independent examiners are aware of that information. PCC Commlttees The Standing Committee comprises the Vicar, Churchwardens, Associate Priest, main Committee Chairs and the Treasurer. It has the power to act on behalf of the PCC for issues that need urgent attention between PCC meetings. No such matters arose in 2024. Much of the PCC'S busi ness is achieved by delegating certain responsibilities to the following committees, whose terms of reference were reviewed by the PCC in May 2024. Fabric & Churchyard Committee Chair.. Peter Clark This Committee, in collaboration with the Vicar and Churchwardens, has oversight of the maintenance, repair and improvement of the church building, St Mary's Lodge, the Parish Hall, Church House, and the other church-owned land and bui Idings. It oversees the activitie5 of the monthly Chu rchyard Working Party, which maintai ns the churchyard and associated grounds. It met three time5 in 2024, but its members were in regular contact. Whilst much useful work has been done and the church has been kept in generally good state of repair, 2024 was characterised by the scarcity of skilled staff at the heritage contractors and shortag e of volunteers available. A major achievement at the start of the year was the completion of the conservation of the 1479 Chauncy Brass and its move from the South Aisle to a more appropriate position in the Chancel. This project was supervised by Martin Stuchfield, Hon. President of the Monumental Brass Society and carried out by the UK'S top brasses conservator, Simon Nadin of Ski Ilington Lack. Stemming from an initial report in 2023 by Dr David Carrington, specialist conseNator, the Friends of Great St Mary's decided to fund a full conservation of the George, Viscount Hewytt d.1689 Monument. Work started in January 2025. The lightning conductor on the tower was upgraded to include a second down conductor. This was expertly achieved by specialists Rodells, working with Lodge & Sons electrical eng ineers, to bring us f ully up to the latest safety standards. The new conductor had to be installed on the south of the tower but, remarkably, is barely visible. A winter storm snapped the flagpole at the point where it entered the tower roof. Fortunately, the roof damage seems to be minor, and nobody was hurt. Thi5 will be an insurance claim in 2025.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 After the retirement of our long-serving organ tuner, Peter de Ville, a new tuner, Andrew Stevens was found. He identified cracks and twisting in some of the Oboe and Cornopean pipes which he removed, had rebuilt and replaced in time for the Advent Carol Service. However, in January 2025 our new organist reported that the organ is failing fast (see page 6). The Parish Hall remains in good condition. A structural engineering survey was conducted on the roof beams of Church House and an internal supporting frame built around one of the dormer windows to give added support until such time as the beams are renewed. (See also page 111. The major achievement of the year was undoubtedly obtaining an order from the Court of the Privy Council in October for the closure of Great St. Mary's churchyard for burials. Th is will lead to the Local Authority taking over the maintenance of the ch urchyard, its lawns and the safety of the gravestones, and its walls, paths, gate, hedges and trees. It is expected that the transfer of maintenance will take place in April 2025. The closure means that new burials are not permitted, but interment of ashes into the Memorial Garden or into an immediate relative's plot will not be affected. As part of preparing for this, EHDC contracted a gravestone safety check in May by specialists Memsafe. The survey found only seven out of 704 gravestones needed work to stabilise them. Where possible, families of owner5 were contacted and, where not, the PCC decided to fund making them safe with new bases rather than laying them flat. Some of the work was covered by an insurance claim. A Robinia tree near the South Door developed a severe lean and the tree surgeons concluded that it was danger to life and to the headstones under it, so required urgent felling before the next storm. EHDC Planning, which protects trees in the Sawbridgeworth Conservation Area agreed. On this occasion, retrospective permission was given by the Diocesan Registrar via the DAC, The felled tree will be replaced with a young one of the same species. Another hardwood memorial bench was donated by a family in memory of a loved one and installed in the churchyard duri ng the year. The work on renovating The Lodge was completed in January 2024 and the house was let out for a short-term tena ncy awaiting the appointment of a new Assistant Minister. The long overdue removal of the huge leyla ndii trees to the west side of the plot followed shortly afterwards and then shrub removal near the carpark, which vastly improved the garden. With special thanks to the dedlcated team of volunteers in the Churchyard Working Party ond our hard-working hall caretaker. TIIE 2nd DAY OF OC.TOBER 2024 PRE.SF.NT, TIIE KIN(iS MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY IN COUNLIL Outreach Committee Chair.. Gilly Squire This Committee promotes the engagement of the church with the community at local, diocesan and national levels. It co-ordinate5 a program of outreach and social events. In 2024, the Committee was exceptionally busy, with meetings occurring at least month ly. Highlights included a challenging quiz nig ht hosted by Rev. Simon Vivian, the introduction of a Teddy Bear Zip Wire at the May Day Fair, a Flower Festival, a Murder Mystery Night performed by Quinnessece Theatre Group, and a Festival 10
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 of Lights with a mulled wine a nd hot chocolate stall. We also provided refreshments after the All Souls and Christmas Carol services, held our second Christmas Tree Festival, and organised well-attended Lent and Advent lunches, among many other events. Plans are already underway to build on the successes of 2024 for an even more exciting 2025. Stewardsh(p & Finance Commlttee Chair.. Julie Patterson This Committee has oversig ht of the PCC'S f inances and stewardship activities. To fulf il this responsibility, it monitors both incoming and outgoing resoLtrces, as well as monitoring the deployment of the net assets, including investment policy and performance. It provides advice and support to the Treasurer, who reports regularly to the PCC on the fi na ncia I position, financial controls and all matters impacti ng the PCC'S finances. We were delighted to welcome Paul Bard back to the Committee in September 2024. The Committee met four times via Zoom in 2024. At each meeting, the Committee received a report from the Treasurer on the PCC'S financial position. It also reviewed the draft Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023, monitored actual income and expenditure against the 2024 forecast approved by the PCC in December 2023, reviewed income versus expenditure on the halls, and considered whether and when a significant drawdown from investments was needed, At the end of the year, it considered the provisional outcome for 2024 and a draft forecast for 2025, which were presented to the PCC in December 2024, The Committee reviewed and made recommendations to the PCC on relevant PCC policies, including the Mission Giving Pol icy, and on d iscretionary fees and other rate5 to be applied in 2025. It also finalised a legacy information document. With conslderable thanks to the Treasurer and the Stewardshlp Recorder. Re-lmaglnlng 2025 Project Group Co-Chair5.' Saroh Vickers & Nick He51op The aim of "Re-imagini ng 2025" is to make Great St Mary's fit for purpose for our Lord Jesus Christ's ministry and mission in the 215t Century, across al I worship, nurturing, pastoral, outreach and social activities, ensuring accessibility and inclusion, and providing a Christian strong presence at the heart of the local community. The Group met six times in 2024,. the fourth year of working as a group to 're-imagine' our church and its buildings. During 2024, the Group continued to work with the church architect, Jeremy Lander on further development of plans for two bu i Iding projects.. re-imaging our church building and the potential upgrad ing of Church Hou se, to ensure they are accessible and provide facilities which are fit for pu rpose. A phased approach to the works needed to re-imagine our church building was agreed by the PCC, with work on and around the West door being the starting point. The Diocesan Advisory Council IDACI was provided with revised draft plans, and some DAC members and others visited the church again and provided feedback, which we discussed with the arch itect in January 2025. Work on exploring how to achieve step-free access to Church House and to re-establish an apartment in the upper part of the bu i Id i ng continued. A fire consultant was com missioned to work with the Architect on f ire safety plans. Consultations are now taking place with the EHDC Planning Authority on this Grade 2 Listed building. The Group is actively progressing discussions with the relevant bodies, and will com mission further reports and provide more deta iled plans for DAC approval. The Grou p is determ ined that both projects will come to fruition in the short term.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 Administrative information Addres& The PCC oversees the activities of Great St Mary's church, which is sltuated in Church Street, Sawbridgeworth. It 15 part of the Diocese of St Albans within the Church of England. The correspondence address is The Parish Office, Church House, 1 Vantorts Road, Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire CM219AH. Website.. www. Dota privacy Contact the Parish Office. You can also contact the Information Commissioner's Office on 0303 123 1113 or via bLp&ZLico. ac Incumbentr No one at present, Rev Simon Vivian having moved parish in September 2024. Ministry team.. Diana Kitson, Reader. Office staffr. Angela Kenny, Parish Administrator and PCC Secretary. The members of the PCC who served from 1 January 2024 until the date this report was approved are: Father Simon Vivian Incumbent (Chair) untiljuly 2024 Gilly Squire PCC Choir from September 2024,. Outreoch Committee Choir,. ChurchwGrden Valerie Bright Becky Burton Peter Clark Deborah Cubitt Anthony Heard Jane Johnson Diana Kitson Kofi Otu Julie Patterson Sarah Vickers Until 12 Moy 2024 Health & Safety Officer,. Fabric & Churchyard Committee Chair First Aid Officer Churchwarden Appointed 72 May 2024,. Parish Safeguarding Officer Loy Reader,. Deanery Synod Representotive Treasurer,. Stewardship & Finonce Committee Choir,, Deanery Synod Representative Co-ChGir of Re-imogining 2025 Project Group Among others that contribute considerable time and resources to the work of Great St Mary's, there are officers who are not members of the PCC.. Fay Clark Nick Heslop Huw Lewis Hazel Mead Electoral Roll Officer,. Spellbrook CoESchool Foundation Governor until December2024 Co-chair of Re-imagining 2025 Project Group Stewardship Recorder Assistant Parish Safeguarding Officer until December 2024 Architert/surveyor." Jeremy Lander, 77 North Street, Burwell, Cambridgeshire CB25 OBB Banker& TSB Bank plc, 88-89 High Street, Chelmsford, Essex CM21 1 DX Independent Examiner.. Price Bailey LLP, Causeway House, 1 Dane Street, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 3BT Signed Gillian Squir Churchwarden of Great St Mary's, Sawbridgeworth and PCC Chair Dated 12
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 Independent Examiner's Report to the members of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Sawbridgeworth I report to the member5 of the PCC on my examination of the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2024 which are set out on pages 14 to 23. Responsibllltles and basls of report As the members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 I'the Act,). I report in respect of my examination of the PCC'S accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my exam i nation I have followed all the applicable Directions g iven by the Charity Commission under section 145{5llbl of the Act, Independent examiner'5 statement I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to rny attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect.. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act,. or the accounts do not accord with those records,. or the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accou nts give a 'true and fair view, which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination, 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. Michael Cooper-Davls FCCA ACA For and on behalf of Price Bailey LLP Causeway House 1 Dane Street Bishop's Stortford Hertfordshire CM23 3BT Date: 11 April 2025 13
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES for the year ended 31 December 2024 Unrestricted Regtrictéd Funds Fund5 2024 Total 2023 Total INCOME Note Volunlary income Planned giving Other donabons Collections lor other charities Tax receivedlclaimed Grants Legacies 39,703 8,080 39,703 11,340 4,850 13,043 22,783 2,912 94,631 30,685 21,553 5,245 12,931 24,732 3,260 4,850 1,883 22,783 11,160 2,912 61,855 32,776 95,146 Church actiVitS Fees . weddings & funerals Propety lellings Fundraising & sponsorship Other 12,606 58.761 12,606 58,761 7,720 425 79,512 10,839 39,727 2,162 200 52,928 7,720 425 71,792 7,720 Investment incom8 24,405 24,405 24,113 Total income 158,052 40,496 198,548 172,187 EXPENDITURE Church 8CtivitEs Mission & Charitable giving Ministry Regular church serVIS Fees paid - weddings & funerals Properties Fundraising costs Adminislralion Other 10 11 12 13 14 3,982 72,052 9,717 7,161 51,467 5,408 9,390 72,052 9,717 7,161 71,452 2,381 21,464 9,703 75,363 7,988 6,040 101,731 1,005 21,414 1,507 224,751 19,985 2,381 15 16 21,464 4,821 170,664 27,774 198,438 Governance Independent examination fee 2,322 2,322 2,154 Total expenditure 172 986 27,774 200,760 226,905 Net Incomingl{outgoing1 re8ources before other recognised gains and losses Diveslmenl proceeds Nel gainlllossl on revaluation of investments Fund transfers Net movement In funds Funds brought forward Funds carried fonvard {14,934) 12,722 12,2121 154,7181 30,000 {8,2961 30,000 18,2961 40,000 31,752 18 14&22 6,770 1,391.583 1,398,353 12,722 158 12,880 19,492 1,391,741 1,411,233 17,034 1,374,707 1,391,741 The notes on pages1610 23 form part ol these financial slalemenls 14
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Re9lStered Charity 1132562 BALANCE SHEET at 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Note Fixed assets Tangible Investments 17 18 490,000 865,070 1,355,070 490.000 873.366 1,363,366 Current assets Debtors Short term deposits Cash at bank and in hand 19 20 16,563 6,161 37,908 60,632 15,006 6,256 12,070 33,332 Liabilities Creditors payabl8 Wlthin one year 21 {4,469) 14,957) Net current assets 56,163 28,375 TOTAL NET ASSETS 1,411,233 1,391,741 Funds 22 Unrestricted Propety capital Legacy capitsl General 490,000 545,529 362,824 1,398,353 490,000 542,617 358,966 1,391,583 Restricted 12,880 158 1,411,233 1,391,741 Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 8 April 2025 and signed on its behalf by,, ikLL illian Squire- Churchwarden Sarah Vickers - PCC member The notes on pages 1610 23 form part ol these financial statements 15
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 1. Accounting policies Basis of preparatlon The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statemnt of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 (effective 1 January 20191- (Charities SORP {FRS 10211, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021, the Charities Act 2011 and the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. The PCC constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS102. The financial statements have been prepared to give 'true and fair, view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair view,. This departure has involved following the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: ststement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance wth the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, The financial ststements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except that properties are included at valuation and investments are included at market value, The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the Parcchial Church Council {"PCC") is responsible in law. They do not include the financial staterrenls of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of church members. Golng concern The financial ststements have been prepared on a going concem basis as the PCC members believe that no material uncertainties exist. The PCC members have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. The budgeted income and expenditure deficit is covered with the support of withdrawing funds from th8 investments, as held within unrestricted general funds, and therefore enables the PCC to continue as a going concern. A detsiled commentary on its impact is detailed in the Annual Report on page 7, Funds Unrestricted designated funds Designated funds are UnStrICted funds set aside at the discretion of the PCC for specific purposes. The propety capital fund is represented by the value of property held. The legacy capital fund is the aggregate of legacies received and is represented by assets held for future major capital projects. Unrestricted g8n9ral funds Unrestricted funds are those funds which can be used for the ordinary purposes of the PCC. Restricted fvnds Restricted funds arise where collections are made or fundraising undertaken for specific causes, or where income is subject to specific conditions imposed by donors or grant-making organisations. Incoming resources Stewardship, seNice collections and donations Amounts are cogniSed when received., at which wint income tax recoverable is accounted for. other voluntary income Grants and legacies are recognised once the PCC has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. Church fees Wedding and funeral fees are recognised when the event occurs. 16
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Re9iStered Charity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (continued) Property lettings Rental income from the letting of premises is recognised when due. Investment income, fundraising and sponsorship InGome is recognised when received. Glfts in kind Assets donated to the PCC are included in the financial records at valuation 8t the date of gift. Resources expended Amounts are recognised when payable and include irrecoverable VAT. All costs have been directly allated to the relevant activity and fund. Tanglble flxed assets Consecrated land and buildings 8nd mov8able church fvmishings Consecrated and benefice property is excluded from the financial ststements under the Charities Act 2011. No value is placed on moveable church furnishings that require a faculty for their disposal as they are consldered by the PCC as inalienable propety. other real estate Given the unusual nature and features of the freehold properties, the properties are held at residual value based on valuations by Wright & Co, a local estate agent, in November 2010 {17). Thus, no depreciation has been charged. Fixtures and fittings Items costs'ng up to £10,000 are written off in the per in vthich the assets are acquired. Investments Investments are staled at market value at the balance sheet date. unalISed gains and losses ansing from rVernents in market values during the year are ¢dited or charged to the Stalement of Financial Activities based on the market value at the year end. Stock Stock is valued al the lower of cost and net realisable value. Debtors Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement value before any trade discounts due. Cash at bank Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-temi highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar accounts. Creditors Creditors and provisions are recognised where the Charity has a present obligation resulting frorn a past event that will probabty result in the transfer of funds lo a third party and the amount due lo settle the obligation can be measured or estimaled reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised al the settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts. 17
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (continued) Flnancial Instruments The Charity only has financial assets and liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic finala1 instruments are inits'ally recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their fair value as at the balance sheet dats. All financial instruments of the charity are measured at Gost. Financial assets include the bank balances, trade debtors and other debtors, but exclude prepayments and taxation. Financial liabilities include trade creditors, other creditors, accruals and deferred income, but exclude social security and other taxes due. Key Source of Judgement and Estlmate Uncertalnty No significant judgements, accounting policies or assumptions have been made by the PCC in applying the Charity's accounting policies. Transactlons Involving mombers of the PCC and connected persons Members of the PCC are obllged to declare any interest in any proposed transaction that involves them or connected persons, and to withdraw from any discussions and not participate in any vote taken. Any transactions undertaken by or on behalfofthe PCC and involving members ofthe PCC andlor connected persons are detsiled in notes 11 and 23. 2. Donations, other than planned giving 2024 2023 Donations under Gift Aid (unrestricted) Other donations lunrestrictedl Collections in church services {unrestrictedl Donations towards specified expenditure (unrestricted) Donations towards restricted expenditure 2,267 3,321 2,492 1,710 2,917 2,354 1,537 13,035 21,553 3,260 11,340 There were two large donations towards restricted expenditure, totalling £2,500 including tax recoverable12023: five large donations lotalling £12,750 including tax recoverable). Unrestncted donations totalled £8,080 {2023'. £8,518) and restsicted £3,260 {2023.' £13,035) 3. Collections for other specific causes {restricted) The figure of £4,85012023, £5,245) comprised £1,769 (2023: £736) of giving under Gift Aid and £3,081 (2023.. £4,509} of other giving (See also nate 101. 4. Tax receivedlclaimed Tax recoverable on giving under Gift Aid in 2024 is estimated at £10,941 12023.. £10,279 estimated,. £10,318 received). £2,000 wa5 received under the small donations scheme for the tax year 202312412022123. £2,000), of which £1,937 wa5 recogni5ed as claimable in 2023, and a further £2,000 has been recognised as claimable in 2024. Of total tax reiVed or claimed, £11,160 was in relation to unrestricted funds12023'. £9,377) and £1,883 restricted {2023: £3,554) 18
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (continued) 5, Grants (restricted) 2024 2023 The Sawbridgeworth Ecclesiastical Charity.. Church insurance Church costs Ecclesiastical Insurance The Friends of Great St Mary's Churchcare Francis Coales Charitable Foundation DCMS Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme (VAT claim) The Commonwealth War Graves Commission 5,082 12,390 1,010 4,346 11,528 2,300 2,500 2,000 2,301 2,580 28 24,732 22,783 6. Legacies A legY of£2,912 was received In 2024 from Miss Frances Lane for Spellbrook Church & School charity {2023: nil). 7. Fees . weddlngs and funeral8 {unre8tricted) In accordance with normal church accounting practice, fees receivable exclude amounts due to the clergy. The fees shown comprise amounts eamed by the PCC and amounts payable to the Diocese and to assistants for their participation at weddings and funerals (see also note 13). 8. Property letting8 (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Church House Parish Hall Car park The Lodge 15,080 13,156 11,825 18,700 58,761 18,047 11,593 10,087 39,727 9. Investment income (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Interest on CCLA Deposit Fund Dividends on CCLA Fixed Interest Fund investment Dividends on CCLA Investment Fund investment 394 3,130 20,881 24,405 269 3,282 20,562 24,113 10. Mission & charitable giving 2024 2023 Mission grants to organisations - unrestricted India Touch Trust Ishiksha Rath} - overseas mission giving Tools with a Mission - overseas mission givirRg Bishop's Slortford Night Shelter- UK mission giving The Friends of Sawbridgeworth Neurological Centres- UK mission giving World Vision 1,105 1,105 1,472 1.002 1,002 668 668 300 3,640 300 3,982 19
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Reglstered char.ity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (contlnued) 10. Mission & charitable giving continued 2024 2023 Distribution of collactions for speclflc causes - restricted Women's World Day of Prayer saridgeWorth Scouts and Girl Guides (St George's Day SeNic81 Train-a-Priest Fund (Lent lunches) Christian Aid (collection tins and fundraising} The Sawbridgeworth Mayor's charities (Annual Town Civic Service) The Bishop of St Alban's Harvest Appeal The Royal British Legion - Poppy Appeal (Remembrance Day Setvicel The Children's Society (Advent Lunches, Christingle and Crib Service) Crisis UK (Christmas collections) Hurricane Beryl DEC Middle East Appeal DEC Turkey & Syria Appeal Air Ambulance (funeral services) Brain Tumour Trust {funeral service) Holiday Homes Trust (funeral service} 191 115 98 462 161 470 259 1,124 1,023 158 1,164 212 144 360 523 200 584 382 1,627 991 924 120 63 116 5,408 11. Ministry (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Diocesan parish share Clergy expenses Outreach 69,920 1,596 536 72,052 73,035 1,857 471 75,363 The Vicar and non-stipendiary priest are reimbursed for expenses incurred on PCC buslness. 12. Regular church services (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Organists Other costs 7,085 5,530 2,458 7,988 9,717 13. Fees paid- weddings and funerals (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Diocesan fees Fees paid to service assistants 5,123 2,038 7,161 4,580 1,460 6,040 The PCC retains the difference belween the total of fees received and the total of fees paid. 20
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Re9lStered Charity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (continued) 14. Properties- maintenance, repair and utilities 2024 2023 Church Churchyard Church House Parish Hall The Lodge Car park Utilities Insurances 12,706 9,463 6,859 1,834 7,304 397 25,208 7,681 71,452 25.802 8,560 12,663 5,778 9,899 32,608 6,421 101731 £19,985 was In relation to restricted funds (2023., £40,059) and £51,467 unrestricted (2023., £61,672). Restricted costs comprised £9,11912023'. £23,810) for the church, £2,892 {2023.' £5,980) for the churchyard, £3,16212023: £4,982) for Church House, nil ft)r The Lodge12023.' £9411, and £4,812 {2023.' £4,346) for church insurances. 15. Administration (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Slaff costs Bookkeeping Comrnittee expenses Telephone Equipment Printing offi supplles 16,189 1,699 105 1,422 48 1,121 880 21,464 15,595 2,031 69 1,299 1,267 21,414 The figure for staff costs in 2024 comprises £15,595 for salaries and wages12023, £15,068), £569 for payroll administration (2023.. £4821 and £25 of training costs (2023.. £45). The figure for salaries and wages in 2024 included pension costs of £1,05712023.' £1,013). The average number of employees during the year was one in 2024 (2023.. one). The PCC considers its key managemenl personnel to comprise the Vicar, Churchwardens and appointed officials (see pages 11 and 12). No employees received over £60,000 remuneration during the year (2023.. nill. No PCC members or other offerS were remunerated for their role (2023.. nil). 16. Other expenditure (unrestricted) The figure for other expenditure in 2024 of £4,821 included £1,500 on website re-design12023'. nil}, £432 on IT systems changes12023.' nill, £1,331 on recruitment12023'. nil}, gifts lotalling £20012023, £6301 and net bank charges of nil12023, £881 21
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charity 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (continued) 17. Tangible flxed assets (unrestrlcted) Freehold land & buildings Fixtures & fittings Totsl Valuation I Cost- beginning and end of year Depreciation - beginning and end of y9ar Net book value - beginning and end of year 490,000 7,899 497,899 7,899 490,000 490,000 The amount of freehold land and buildings comprises valuations of St Mary's Lodge £335,0, the Parish Hall £45,Crf)O and Church House £110,000, provided by local estate agent Wright & Co in November 2010 and reflecting current usage. Fixtures and fittings comprise the sound system 18. Investments (unrestricted) 2024 2023 Market value at beginning of year Additionsl(withdrawalsl at cost Gainl{Ioss1 on revaluation Market value at end of year The portfolio consists ofinvesfments in.. CCLA CBF Church of England Fixed Interest SeGurities Fund CCLA CBF Church of England Investment Fund 873,366 130,000) 21,704 865,070 841,614 140,000) 71,752 873,366 124,779 740,291 865,070 121,123 752,243 873,366 19. Debtors (receivable within one year) 2024 2023 Churchcare grant Francis Coales Charitable Foundatron DCMS Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme Tax recoverable lof which £1,820 restricted (2023.. £2,853)- see note 4) Hire fees due (unrestricted) Undertakers lunrestrictedl 2,500 2,000 926 12,941 696 12,216 73 217 15,006 20. Short term deposits (unrestricted) rhese cash deposits are held with The Central Board of Finance Church of England Deposit Fund, which is nanaged by CCLA. 21. Creditors (payable within one year} 2024 2023 Wedding deposits lunrestrictedl Distributions of collections lo specific causes Irestrictedl Nest {pension provider) Independent examination fee (unrestricted) 100 2,618 85 2,154 4,957 2,147 2,322 4,469 22
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAWBRIDGEWORTH Registered Charlty 1132562 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (continued) 22. Funds Balances end-2023 Income in 2024 Expenditure in 2024 Fund transfers Balances end-2024 Unrestricted Propety capital Legacy capital General 490,000 542,617 358,966 1,391,583 490,000 545,529 362,824 1,398,353 2,912 176,844 179,756 172,986 {172,986) Reslricted Monies for specific causes Specific grants & fundraising 38 120 158 5,370 35.126 40,496 {5,408) 12,880 12,880 {27,7741 Total 1,391,741 220,252 200,760 1,411,233 For an explanation of restricted funds, see page 16. See notes 3 and 10 second part for restricted funds comprising monies for specific causes and £519 in reclaimable tsx {2023.' £841) The end-year balance comprises nil for other charities (2023. £38). See notes 2, 5 and 14 for restricted donations, grants and expenditure. In additlDn, there was £1,364 in reclaimable tax12023.' £2,713), restricted fundraising of £7,720 {2023: £2,162) and fundraising costs of £2,38112023.' £1,005). Prlor year lunds Balances end-2022 Income in 2023 Expenditure in 2023 Fund transfers Balances end-2023 Unrestricted Propety capital Legacy capital General 490,000 542,617 342,033 1,374,650 490,000 542,617 358,966 1,391,583 195,211 195,211 179,778 (179,7781 1,500 1,500 Restricted Monies for specific causes Specific grants & fundraising 15 42 57 6,086 42,642 48,728 (6,063) 41,064 {47,127) 38 120 158 {1,5001 Total 1,374,707 243,939 226,905 1,391,741 23. Payments to PCC members and connected persons PCC members were reimbursed £1,08812023.- £1,799) for purchases on behalf of the PCC, of which restricted costs were £81712023.. nill, and paid £1,02012023'. £6601 for verger setvices (unrestricted in both years). No other payments to PCC members and connected persons were made {2023'. nill. 23