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2025-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026

Parish of Lydgate St. Anne in the Benefice of Saddleworth

Deanery of Oldham and Ashton

Diocese of Manchester

Sunday 26th April 2026 in the Parish Hall immediately after the 11.00am service

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

For the year ending 31[st] December 2025

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ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026

PA
GE
CONTENTS 2
AGENDAS
2026 Annual Vestry Meeting and minutes of 2025 3
Item 3 Approval of the Minutes of the Vestry Meeting 2025 3
2026 Annual Parochial Church Meeting 3
Item 3 Approval of the APCM Minutes of 2025
REPORTS AS REQUIRED BY CHURCH REPRESENTATION
RULES
Item3Approvalof theAPCM Minutes of 2025 4
Item 4 Electoral RollOfcer 7
Item 5 Report of the proceedings of the Parochial Church Council in 7
2025/6
Item6 Statementofaccounts yearending 31 December 2025 10
Item 7Church Warden'sReporton Fabric and Other Matters 10
Item8Reportof theDeanery Synod 13
Item9 Safeguarding OfcersReport 14
TEAM VICAR'S REPORT 14
OTHER ANNUAL REPORTS
Worship Committee 16
PastoralCareTeam 17
JuniorChurch 18
Report from the Sexton 18
Eco Group 19
Team Flower Team 20
HospitalityTeam 20
CardDistribution 21
Girlguiding- Rangers, Guides,Brownies andRainbows 21
Lydgate CommunityAssociation 22
STATUTORYSAFEGUARDING POLICY ANDSTATEMENTS 24
The policy and statements will be read out at the APCM by our
Safeguarding Ofcer MrsKatieLockey
GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION 26

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ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026

ANNUAL VESTRY MEETING 2026 AGENDA

  1. Welcome

  2. Apologies for absence

  3. Approval of Minutes of the Vestry Meeting April 2025 - see below

  4. Election of the Church Wardens for the year 2026/2027

Item 3 2025 MINUTES - FOR APPROVAL

Present:

Rev Sachin Awale (SA) in the Chair, Liz Brocklehurst (EB), Julie Whitehead(JW), Jennifer Greenwood (JG) , John Hodgson (JRH), Simon Edge (SE), Gordon Whitehead (GW), Frank Boocock (FB), Al Gillian (AG), Rachel Damianou (RD), Molly Ellis (ME), Vicky Stott (VS), Katie Lockey (KL), Sue Fleming (SF), Paul Roberts (PR), Barbara Hodgson (BH).

  1. SA opened the Vestry Meeting, welcomed everyone and offered prayers and thanks.. (BH volunteered to take the minutes)

  2. Apologies for absence: Danos Damianou, Jo Coxon, Lesley Greenwood

  3. Minutes of 2024 See main Report

  4. SA was in possession of the correct paperwork two nominations Barbara Hodgson and Paul Roberts. SA asked if there were any other nominations. There were none. With the agreement of all present Barbara Hodgson and Paul Roberts were duly elected to serve as Churchwardens for the coming year2025-2026. All present in agreement.

SA offered support to the two Churchwardens in the coming year

There being no other business the Vestry meeting was formally closed at 12.50.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026 (APCM) Agenda

  1. Opening Prayers

  2. Apologies for Absence

  3. Approval of minutes of the APCM held April 2025 - see below

  4. Electoral Roll Officer's Report

  5. Report on the proceedings of the PCC for 2025/2026 - PCC Secretary

  6. Treasurer’s Financial Report for year ending 31st December 2025

  7. Churchwarden's Report on Fabric and Other Matters

  8. Report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod for 2025 - Deanery Synod Rep

  9. Child Protection Report - Safeguarding Officer

  10. Elections, appointments and charities

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ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026

i Assistant Churchwardens ii PCC Members - two members for three years

Date of next PCC meeting: Thursday May 14th 2026 Commencing at 19.00 in the Vestry

ITEM 3 2025 APCM MINUTES - FOR APPROVAL

1. SA formally opened the meeting

2. Apologies Danos Damianou, Jo Coxon, Lesley Greenwood

Presentation of the Annual Report. The report had been circulated prior to the meeting and hard copies were also made available. SA thanked BH for compiling the Annual Report. BH reported an error on the very last page of the Annual Report regarding service statistics. There were 42 midweek family services not 35 which gave a total of 158 services at St Anne in 2024.

3. Approval of the minutes of the Vestry and APCM held on

Sunday 26th March 2023. No matters arising. No amendments had been requested. Proposed by EB and seconded by JRH. By a show of hands the minutes were formally accepted as an accurate account of the meeting.

4. Electoral Roll Report RD reported that this year 2025 the Electoral Report had to be compiled anew. At the cut off point prior to the APCM the roll stood at 70. 52 resident and 18 non-resident. BH added that there were two additional forms handed in after the deadline. RD was thanked for all the work that she had put in updating and producing the new roll.

5. PCC Secretary's Report on the proceedings of the PCC

2024/2025 As in the Annual Report - BH added that following each PCC the draft minutes are posted on the notice board by the entrance door should anyone wish to read them.

6. Treasurers Financial Report In addition to his written report - i. AG hoped everyone had read the statement especially the notes on page 3 and 4 which highlighted the important items of expenditure and income. ii. The Giving Campaign had a positive impact in both unrestricted income and expenditure. We started the year with £2703 and ended with £2358

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ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026

with all bills paid. PCC's designated funds ie for specific projects (but otherwise unrestricted) had increased from £2448 to £4784 and can be used elsewhere if needed. iii . Only £4003 of the main restricted funds had been used despite spending £9738 on the Parish Hall roof the Church Tower repairs. iv. At the end of the year we ended in a strong financial position however, AG made reference to not just the finance side of his report but to the offering of time, talents and skills as giving to God's Kingdom. AG proposed and RD seconded that the report be accepted. A show of hands showed approval. AG was thanked by SA and all present for the huge amount of work that had gone into the Annual Statement of Accounts.

7. Churchwardens Report on Fabric and Other Matters. PR stated the fabric element was all in the report. BH reiterated both the Churchwarden's thanks to everyone who has contributed in any way to the life of the Church in Lydgate. EB proposed and JRH seconded that the report be accepted. By a show of hands the report was accepted. EB thanked the Churchwardens for all their work.

8. Report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod for 2024. Report as in the Annual Report. SA thanked EB for being an amazing representative for Lydgate St Anne and also stated it wasn't an easy job as it involves reporting back to the parish on matters discussed.

9. Safeguarding Report Written report as in the Annual Report. However it is a requirement that the Safeguarding Policy and Statements for the Parish are read at the APCM and then signed by the Chair and a Churchwarden and displayed on the Safeguarding Notice Board in Church. SA stated that KL was doing an amazing job as Safeguarding Officer especially with all the work on the Diocesan Dashboard. KL to attend the next PCC , May 15, to request completion of some work on the dashboard which is down to PCC members and not the Safeguarding Officer.

VS and KL left the meeting at 13.15.

Team Vicar's Report In addition to his written report SA thanked everyone at St Anne for their contribution to the services and also to the governance required by the Church of England.

11. Other Reports from the Parish - taken out of order

Worship Committee - As in the Annual Report

Pastoral Care Team - As in the Annual Report

Junior Church - JG added that it is a joy to see Junior Church in the congregation each Sunday. SE stated that there is a good team of people

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with at least three each week. BH added that the Diocesan Training Day was very informative and that Hannah Barratt had attended from Junior Church. SA added there will be two other training days in the year.

Report of the Sexton As in the written report.

ECO AG asked if anyone should feel able to join the Eco Group they would be welcomed. Coming up is a Churches Count of Nature involving a survey of the Church Yard to explore what the churchyard has in the way of flower species, insects, animals etc.

Flower Team As in the Annual Report GW added that the floral arrangements in church were always fantastic.

Hospitality Team - RD reminded us all that any money given after the service for tea/coffee was accounted for in May and divided between the three Church Charities. This year a little over £800 was raised for Saddleworth Street Pastors, Crisis and The Smile Train. In addition to the £800 the refreshments at the Art Trail raised an additional £331.98 for the three charities.

Card Distribution Team As in the written report

Girl Guiding As in the written report

Lydgate Community Association JG added that there were currently 10 Trustees who all work very hard for the LCA. That the relationship between the LCA is very good and also continues to grow.

Following the presentation of all the additional reports SA thanked everyone who had produced a report on their group or organisation.

10. Elections This item taken following all the other reports printed in the Annual Report

i. Assistant Churchwardens Three names had been proposed and seconded. Jennifer Greenwood John Pearson and Anne Smith. They were duly elected to serve As Assistant Wardens for the coming year 20252026.

ii. PCC Members Rachel Damianou had been proposed and seconded and was thanked for standing. Rachel accepted by all present to serve on the PCC for the three year period 2025 to 2028.

iii. Deanery Synod Reps One vacancy for one year. No candidates proposed. Liz Brocklehurst is in post until 2026.

iv. Charities It is the norm to select three charities each year. One local, one national and one international. The following were proposed. 1. Street Pastors (L), 2. NW Ambulance Service (L), 3. Tameside Breast

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Care Unit 4. Dementia UK (National) and 5. CRIBS (International). Following a brief discussion 3, 4 and 5 selected.

v. Examiner of Accounts AG stated that Mike Royal was happy to continue. AG proposed and SE seconded that Mike be accepted as our Independent Examiner for the 2025. By a show of hands Mike was accepted as the Independent Examiner of the church accounts for 2025.

AOB

None

SA thanked Churchwardens, Assistant Churchwardens PCC Treasurer, Sidespeople and all others for their support to the parish in the provision of services and also the necessary Governance.

First meeting of the new PCC will be held in the Vestry May 15th at 7.00pm.

There being no other business and following he Grace being said the 2024 APCM closed 13.35

2026 REPORTS AS REQUIRED BY THE CHURCH REPRESENTATION RULES 2025

ITEM 4

ELECTORAL ROLL OFFICER'S REPORT

Our Electoral Roll is a list of our members and a point of contact details for all those connected and involved in our church. Every six years it is a legal requirement to completely revise our Electoral Roll .Everyone then needs to fill in an application to the Roll form again and this happened last year. It usually results in a trimmed down roll initially. We now have 71

members , 52 members are resident and 19 are non-resident in the Parish. Our new Roll is displayed at the back of church.

Anyone who is 16 or over and baptized and regularly attends worship here or who lives in the Parish is eligible. It is a good record of our church members.

It would be good to see new members joining the Roll as they get involved with our church family.

If anyone wishes to take certain roles in the church, they should ideally be a member of the Roll, so it is important that as many people as possible are encouraged to join the Electoral Roll. After the AGM and throughout the year anyone not on the Roll is welcome to join at any point.

Rachel Damianou - Electoral Roll Officer

ITEM 5

PCC Secretary's Report on the Parochial Church Council May 2025 to March 26

The Parochial Church Council meets bi-monthly and the PCC year starts after the APCM normally the first meeting is in early May. 2025/2026 all

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meetings were chaired by the Vice Chair. Attendance by members attendance was six meetings - three members, five meetings - five members, four meetings - one member, one meeting - one member and no meetings - one member . Should anyone be interested in shadowing our current PCC Secretary for continuity purposes please contact Barbara Hodgson.

Below is a very brief resume of discussions and any decisions made at the meetings. I would like to remind everyone that following each meeting the draft minutes are posted on the notice board at the back of church. So further detailed information is always available.

May 15th 2025 Discussions

SumUp machine, Appointment of Officers, Safeguarding statements were read out by our Safeguarding Officer, Finance - income , expenditure and budget, Stewardship, ECO, Fabric - Christmas Lights (LCA), Parish Hall - unsound brickworks, Worship - Service for Peter Bowles, Liturgy and Worship training - Elizabeth Brocklehurst, MAP - Open Church Decisions

Approval given for the creation of a Recycling Area at the back of church. APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS

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Toni Richards, Rachel and Danos Damianou, Molly Ellis, Frank Boocock, Janet Brierley, Pat Thompson, Eileen Roebuck, Steph Cosgrove, Gwen Morton, Dorothy Clarke and Lesley Heyes.

July 10th 2025

Discussions

Fabric - Parish Hall - Parapet walls, Christmas Lights - Faculty required, Worship - Distribution of Communion from the chancel step, Diocesan lay courses, Finance - safety of gravestones, Archdeacon's Visitation - Terrier, Health and Safety, QI, ECO - pond, MAP - Count on nature Certificate r4eceived, Christmas Fair

Decisions

To give the distribution of communion further thought. Health and Safety policy approved. Agreed that the costs contained in the QI needed to be further discussed.

September 11th 2025 Discussions

Fabric - quotes for several pieces of work, East window, Audio Visual Equipment, Social events, Finance - Renewal campaign, SumUp machine, ECO - churchyard management plan and pond, Safeguarding - all records up to date no issues reported, MAP, Team Rector Update, Weekly Sheet Printing

Decisions

Approved spend on 1.Parish Hall parapet walls. 2. Work to unsafe steps in graveyard. 3. Remedial works to church electrical wiring. 4. Remedial works to church lightning conductor 5. Securing unsafe gravestones. Approval given to distribute communion from the chancel step. Approval of new cleaning contract

November 6th 2025

Discussions

Fabric - lychgate, east window, Parish Hall - water Butt, old Marquee, Worship - Rev Pat downscaling her work, ALM courses, Christmas fair, Tapas evening, ECO - how to engage with uniformed organisations, MAP, Team Rector Update, Christmas Appeal Decisions

Agreed to offer the Old Marquee to school if in decent condition. Agreed to set up extraordinary meeting to discuss QI spend. Approval given to source Audio Visual Equipment. Cash Handling Process approved. Approval given for a flier to be distributed with the Christmas Card re a Christmas Appeal

January 8th 2026 Discussions

Fabric - water ingress into church porch. lychgate, windows in extension. Christmas Appeal update doing well, Finance, ECO - Chart to go up at back

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of church, Safeguarding - Dashboard, DBS and Training required for Open Church, MAP - lots of actions completed, Visitation date confirmed for January 21st, Primary School Foundation Governor situation, Whit Friday

Decisions

Extra spend regarding solving the water ingress in the porch. Primary School Nick Jones to be moved into a Foundation Governor post. Works to stabilise unsafe gravestones approved. Trinitas Insurance Policy renewal approved. Standing Committee given approval to fund any urgent work up to the value of £3000. PCC approved all the Policies that are held with renewal due in 2027.

March 5th 2026

Discussions

Visitation, Draft annual accounts, Eucharistic Assistants require licensing, School Governor update, Rachel Damianou training application, Parish Hall Agreement, Fabric parish hall - gutters, slates, fascias, Soup lunch, Whit Friday, ECO, Safeguarding - wardens to undertake additional training, Wednesday service issue, thank you flier for Christmas appeal, Audio Visual equipment.

Decisions

Approval given for the extra spend on the issue pf water ingress into porch. Draft annual accounts approved. Eucharistic Assistants names approved, Training for Rachel Damianou approved. Approval for advertisement for Foundation Governors approved. Approved Thank you flier to go out with Easter Card.

MAP UPDATE

During this year we have continued to develop ideas based on ideas gathered from our congregations. The pastoral care group continues to meet to pray for those who need our prayers and provide practical help through visiting. Open Church is continuing as it has proved a successful venture for people to visit the church, to run special events and to care for our church, both inside and out. We have updated our websites and improved our social media presence, although more help with this would be appreciated. We have run successful soup lunches and are looking to continue running these once a quarter. We have held fundraising events at The Roebuck and with the Christmas Fair. More events with The Roebuck are being planned. We have purchased the Audio Visual Screen which is being regularly used at our Wednesday services and is providing a useful resource at weddings, baptisms, funerals and other services. Junior Church are considering reinstating our May Queen and ways to engage our ‘Tweens’. As the weather improves, we will turn our attentions to our eco plans for the church yard. A big thanks to all who have helped to make all these ideas realities. We are always grateful for more support and help. Please step forward if you feel you have skills or knowledge that will help us to do this.

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Thanks are given to Liz Brocklehurst for keeping the MAP updated and for engaging with the congregations.

Barbara Hodgson Hon PCC Secretary

ITEM 6

STATEMENT OF ANNUAL ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024 - The statement of accounts can be found in a separate document.

ITEM 7

CHURCHWARDENS REPORT ON FABRIC AND OTHER MATTERS

Three years ago Paul and I didn't know each other. My early

remembrance of him was hearing a beautiful singing voice and being told it was Paul. Since then we have got to know each other very well and both feel we make a good team. Paul can usually be found up a ladder looking for holes in the roof, where I am usually found sitting in front of my PC (since becoming Secretary even more so). The serene swan you see on Sundays is the result of the many who beneath the water paddle away. So Paul and I wish to thank everyone who in whatever capacity volunteer to help. The list is long and we wouldn't like to miss anyone so for whatever you do to enable the Anglican church here at Lydgate St Anne to continue we give you our thanks. I think special thanks need to be given to the clergy and lay ministers who commit themselves to serve here and across the Benefice. In a time of interregnum the pressure is great. Thanks are given to Rev Sachin, Rev Pat, Al Gillian, Rachel Damianou and Liz Brocklehurst for their ministry. Also to Louise and Liz who share their musical gifts with us each Sunday. More recently to Liz for her use of the audio visual equipment which provides a different element in our services. A huge thank you to Rachel Damianou who last year had to completely renew the Electoral Roll which is a huge task.

My time this year has been taken up mainly on the administrative side of parish work which no-one really sees. Form filling, data submission, statistics, etc. A considerable amount of time was spent on preparing for the Archdeacon's Visitation which we were informed about last July. The Inventory/ Terrier had not been updated or completed since 2012 and is still a work in progress. The logbook the second of the mandatory records is being created as from the start of 2023 when Paul and I became wardens as an old logbook has not been found.

Now to the Fabric part of our report.

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The following issues have been addressed during the period 18[th] April 2025 to 8[th] April 2026.

(1) Parish Hall. (a) Completed work.

During the period Oct/Nov 2025 Peter Grennan (general builder) accomplished a general renovation/rebuild of the old boiler house parapet walls, and extensive renewal of render on the lower walls on the south side of the hall. Additionally he resecured the metal entrance gate and wall which was badly cracked. The fee for this was £2315 as approved by the PCC. Additionally he had to clear out the drains in the area, resecured a problematic opening window, and resealed around one of the UPVC window installations to stop the potential ingress of water. This cost a further £275 above the initial agreed costs but needed to be done in order to complete the job effectively. He also removed iron support girders on the flat roof free of charge.

Our roofing contractor 2Js are currently in the process of renewing a broken roof tile on the south facing elevation, resecuring some slipped tiles in the same vicinity, resecuring a downspout between two flat roof areas at the rear of the hall, and renewing the guttering on the north face above the kitchen area in order to resolve some dampness problems. The cost of this will be £1200 as approved by the PCC.

Pending issues.

(2) Church.

(a) Quinquennial inspection.

Following the Quinquennial inspection on 17[th] Jan 2025 a report was received of the findings in June 2025, and subsequently Barbara, Paul, Al and Nick (vice chair) met on 4/12/25 to address the issues that had been highlighted. Further consideration of the QI report conclusions will take place in due course, but some issues have already been addressed and remedial work completed.

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(b) Archdeacons visitation.

This took place on 21[st] Jan 2026 with Sachin Awale, Daniel Ramble (Area Dean) and Liz Dent (Deanery synod chair) in attendance. It went well and they were satisfied that the church records complied with the proscribed working practices. Prior to the visitation Max Electrical accomplished remedial work on the wiring costing £1,536, which enabled them to issue the required Electrical Safety Certificate which lasts for three years. In addition Delta accomplished remedial work to the lightning conductor costing £780, which enabled them to provide the required compliance certificate. Liz Dent was very complementary regarding the records that were held, and commended the preparatory work which enabled her to complete the visitation forms with ease.

(c) Completed work.

June 2025 . 2Js roofing replaced several tiles and replaced the whole of the guttering on the Lychgate which cost £2,000 as approved by the PCC.

June 2025. 2Js roofing replaced numerous poorly repaired roof tiles above the vestry entrance area at a cost of £1,325 as approved by the PCC.

January 2026. 2Js roofing replaced numerous large roof tiles adjacent to the tower, and reseated the adjacent guttering to stop water ingress into the main entrance porch area which was regularly flooding. This cost £3,000 as approved by the PCC.

October 2025. Pendle Glass replaced approximately 9 small broken diamond shaped panes of glass on the South side of church. This cost £906 and was approved by the PCC.

August 2025. Danny Parker accomplished several small jobs around church including resealing coping stones on the vestry flat roof parapet wall (as suggested in the QI report), repairing dangerous steps to the upper grave yard at the North West corner of church, repointing the wall above the steps to the cellar, and resealing around the doorframe at the church main entrance. He kindly only charged for one days labour at a cost of £328 as approved by the PCC.

July 2025. PAT testing accomplished.

Sept 2025. Al and Mick Harrington secured dangerously loose headstones in the church yard at an approximate cost of £660 as approved by the PCC.

August 2025. The clock was serviced for a fee of £390. March 2026. Philip Clarke repaired the church notice board which had been broken over the Christmas period.

(d) Pending issues.

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General comments.

As you will see this has been a rather busy but productive year. This report highlights what work has been done in the main by contractors, but we must also give thanks for the many willing volunteers who have offered their services free of charge to both maintain and improve the fabric of church and its grounds. We are aware however that we are to some degree limited in what we can achieve due to financial constraints, and with that in mind we will be looking to obtaining grants when we are tackling more costly jobs such as the East windows project.

Barbara Hodgson and Paul Roberts Churchwardens.

ITEM 8 REPORT ON THE DEANERY SYNOD PROCEEDINGS 2025

There have been three meetings of the Deanery Synod during the year. They provide a useful opportunity to link between the Manchester Diocese, the Ashton and Oldham Deanery and local parishes. We have had presentations on the Diocese’s vision for the future, analysis of young people’s spirituality and the ways in which the church can help to provide appropriate support, and clergy and lay leaders well-being. We also have regular updates on finance and eco news. Newsletters have been distributed via the church WhatsApp groups. We have space for another Deanery Synod rep, so if this sounds like something that would interest you, please speak to me.

Liz Brocklehurst - Deanery Synod Rep

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ITEM 9 SAFEGUARDING OFFICERS REPORT Safeguarding Statements

Our Safeguarding Policy, Promoting a Safer Church, is in line with guidance from the Diocese and is available for viewing on the notice board at the back of church along with the Referral Flow Chart stating what to do if there is a case of suspected child abuse.

The Parish Safeguarding Handbook is now an online document and is available on the website along with a safeguarding statement. Safer Spaces posters have been put up in the toilets within Church and in the Parish Hall.

Parish Dashboard

Dashboard compliance currently stands at 94%. There are outstanding actions around risk assessments and role descriptions which are in the process of being completed.

Arrangements are now in place for all regular hirers of the Parish Hall to sign an agreement to abide by the Church’s safeguarding policy. This change has been made with the assistance of LCA and will be implemented for all longstanding and any new regular bookings.

Volunteer Details

A completed application form, two references and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate are held for each volunteer. All DBS certificates are renewed every 3 years, and our current volunteers have completed online Basic and Foundation Safeguarding Training. Information on our volunteers is kept in a locked safe.

PCC members

It is a requirement that all PCC members have a DBS check completed every three years. As they are trustees of a charity overseeing work with children and adults at risk, they have safeguarding responsibilities. All existing PCC members have a valid DBS check.

PCC members are required to complete two online learning courses about safeguarding and are encouraged to complete an additional module about domestic abuse which need to be renewed every three years.

Katie Lockey Parish Safeguarding Officer April 2026

TEAM VICAR'S REPORT

As we reflect on the year 2025, we give thanks for God’s guidance and the many ways our benefice has grown in faith, service and community. This year has been one of collaboration, creativity and continuity, as we build upon our ministry and look forward to the next chapter during our ongoing vacancy.

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Our Sunday morning and midweek services have continued to flourish. Maintaining common themes across all services has created continuity and has been extended into our Sunday schools, helping children connect with scripture and deepening understanding across all ages. It is encouraging to see positive growth in families and children attending our services, a sign of God’s blessing on our shared ministry.

Midweek services remain an important focus. The dedication of service leaders, coordinators and volunteers has helped create welcoming, spiritually enriching spaces for worship and reflection.

Our all-age approach continues to strengthen intergenerational connections, bringing people of different ages together in prayer, fellowship, and service. Our clergy team, Revs. Hilary Edgerton, Barbara Christopher, Philip Williamson, Pat Gillian, Michael Donmall, Richard Lambert, Chris Ford, Ian Brocklehurst, John Faraday, Philip Brierley, Miles Howarth, Philip Miller and Graham McGuffie, have been a true blessing to our benefice this year. Their faithful leadership, pastoral care and willingness to step in wherever needed have ensured that every service, every pastoral visit and every ministry initiative continues smoothly. We have seen their generosity of spirit, their patience, and their joy in serving God and the community and we are deeply grateful for their dedication. Their teamwork and encouragement have strengthened the body of Christ among us, reminding us that ministry is not a solo journey but a shared calling.

We are also profoundly thankful for the support of The Right Reverend Prof. David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, The Right Reverend Mark Davis, Bishop of Middleton, Archdeacon Karen Smeeton and Area Dean Daniel Ramble. Their wisdom, guidance, and presence in leading services have been invaluable during this period of transition, helping to maintain continuity, inspire confidence, and nurture the mission of our churches. Governance and training have been a priority.

We are grateful to our PCCs and parish governors for completing necessary training, strengthening safeguarding and parish leadership. Regular clergy and sequestrator meetings have enhanced collaboration, shared learning and good practice across our churches.

2025 also saw the establishment of our Team ALM gathering, providing a platform for our lay ministers to share ideas, support one another and develop new initiatives. It is heartening to see new members beginning ALM training and Yvonne Carson from Christ Church Friezland has started her Readers’ training, please keep her and others in your prayers.

Our commitment to environmental stewardship has grown this year. Our eco-church initiatives continue to raise awareness of care for God’s

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creation and encourage practical actions across our parishes. These efforts help us live out our faith in ways that honour both God and the world around us.

Our ecumenical work has strengthened further, with Advent and Lent courses successfully bringing together local churches in study and fellowship. These initiatives have enriched spiritual life across the community and fostered strong relationships between churches in the area. Our work with local schools continues to grow and strengthen. Weekly common worship services have become an important part of the spiritual life of our schools, helping children and staff experience consistent and meaningful worship. Occasional visits by schools to our churches for services, learning and reflection have enriched both pupils and our congregations. We are deeply thankful to the clergy, volunteers and lay leaders who give their time and energy to support these initiatives, creating welcoming spaces for young people to explore faith, ask questions, and connect with God. Their commitment has been vital in building relationships between our churches and schools, nurturing the next generation in the life of Christ.

Our ministry would not be possible without the tireless support of Churchwardens, Deputy Churchwardens, ALMs, Sidespersons, Parish Administrator Jane Ratcliff and our volunteers. Their dedication in worship, pastoral care, administration and community engagement is a true blessing, and we thank God for each one of them.

The writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone when they fall” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). This captures the spirit of 2025, a year of teamwork, mutual support and growth as the body of Christ.

As we look forward to 2026 and the appointment of a new Team Rector, we do so with hope and confidence, trusting God to guide us. Together, as clergy, lay leaders and congregations, we will continue to serve faithfully, nurture discipleship and grow in our mission, always looking to Christ as our guide and strength.

With gratitude and blessings, Revd. Sachin S. Awale Team Vicar of Saddleworth

ITEM 11 OTHER ANNUAL REPORTS

WORSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT

The Worship Committee is a sub-committee of the PCC and discusses mainly but not solely items relating to service provision. Membership of

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the sub-committee is open for anyone not just PCC members. it only meets every two months so isn't particularly onerous. Whilst sub committees do not have the power to make decisions they bring proposals to the PCC meetings where a decision is made.

Discussion items have included

We are always looking for additional people to lead intercessions or to read the lessons. Should this be something you feel you could help with please contact John Pearson, one of our Assistant Wardens, who prepares the rota. The more people we have on the rota helps with the regularity for all individuals concerned.

Should you have an interest in joining us please speak to Al Gillian, Liz Brocklehurst, Rachel Damianou or Barbara Hodgson.

Barbara Hodgson

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PASTORAL CARE TEAM

At St Anne’s we are very fortunate to have a good congregation who look out for each other. We now also have a team of 6 who regularly meet to see how best we can help those who are brought to our attention as in particular need and to pray for them.

Pastoral care may take the form of a regular visit for companionship, a visit after an illness, a bunch of flowers, a text or email to reach out, a listening ear or delivering one of our “ thinking of you” cards. Care can be in an individual’s home or at school or a visit to hospital, a care home or Old Mill House. Home communion is also possible. We have also helped with the delivery of flowers in the community on St Anne’s day and Mothering Sunday and invited those recently bereaved to our Harvest and All Souls services. With help from others in the congregation we have also started “Soup Sundays” when soup in served after the Sunday service offering a sociable time for chatting and companionship over a light lunch. More such events are planned for the coming year.

If anyone sees someone is suddenly missing from church for a few weeks or feels someone would welcome some pastoral care for whatever reason, please speak to Rachel, Liz or Pat. Also, if anyone feels they would like to help with the ministry of Pastoral Care, please speak to Rachel, Liz or Pat.

Rachel Damianou

JUNIOR CHURCH

Junior Church continues to thrive and there are plenty of new faces. The leaders continue delivering their lessons using the Sunday Lectionary, usually focusing on the Gospel reading. Their skills at being creative we see when the children are asked to tell us what they have learned, holding high their pieces of work. At the first Sunday service the children quote regularly are asked to participate which they do willingly. The box of percussion instruments sometimes appears and the children join in for the final hymn. Sometimes rather enthusiastically, especially the boys, who always appear to choose a drum. Thanks are given to the leaders who give freely of their time to prepare and teach our young people.

Barbara Hodgson

REPORT OF THE SEXTON

Our work in the churchyard continues to be focussed on creating a place of peace where people can spend time remembering their loved ones; it needs to be well-kept to ensure the safety of visitors; it needs to provide a place where we can provide a biodiverse facility which recognises the

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need to reverse the damaging impact of the Climate Crisis. As one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world we owe it to those that come after us to do what we can to help nature in this valuable green space in our Parish. I will cover this in more detail in my ECO Report in this document.

Thank you to all those that helped with our working parties during the year and as we move into spring in 2026, we will match the Working Party dates with those Saturdays scheduled for Open Church. In 2025 the evening sessions were poorly attended and, although people are welcome to undertake work in the churchyard during the lighter evenings, there will not be any formal working parties.

St Anne’s Churchyard is an important working churchyard and is visited by many every day. In 2025 we recorded: 4 Burials, 3 Interments of Ashes and 7 Memorials, plaques or additional inscriptions were added.

Al Gillian

ECO GROUP

Our three aims for the churchyard remain to provide a (1) A Place of Peace (2) A Safe Ground (3) A Biodiverse Facility. Equally important, we must incorporate our work with the church and hall buildings to obtain our Gold A Rocha ECO Award.

Why is this important? The answer is that it is an indication that we recognise the damage that humans have done to our planet and it’s the only one we have. How are we leaving it for future generations? Will there be a habitable planet? It’s never too late to step back from the brink and we pray that everyone will play their part to:

Reduce our Carbon Footprint with the aim of reaching Net Zero by 2030.

Provide a haven for wildlife to flourish (Britain is one of the most

nature-depleted countries

in the world – what a reputation to have). Make our gardens places where wildlife can flourish

Change our lifestyles to recognise that we are part of the problem but need to become part of the solution. If we take responsibility God will help us, but if we need any evidence of the Climate Crisis, look at the wildfires, the melting Polar ice, the storms, and the many other ways in which an over-heated planet is reacting. And closer to home we are feeling the effects. If you want to help with these aims, please contact Al.

In seeking our Gold A Rocha Church Award here is what we need to do: Worship and Teaching – We are still rated as ‘Gold’ according to our assessment in January 2025, but there is more we can do. Watch out for and take note of the ECO Tips on the weekly sheet and, more importantly, try to put some into practice.

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Buildings – We are still currently at ‘Silver’ but, because of the need to heat church and hall both with gas boilers, we get a low score. We may need to look at whether we can move to greener tariffs, but that might come at an increased cost. We have already taken steps to reduce consumption by better time and temperature management. We have converted all remaining lights to LED. We have improved our collective recycling.

Land – We are ‘Silver’ and made some further work on improving biodiversity. There are certain areas of the churchyard that are encouraged to stay wild, although invasive plants, such as ivy, brambles and holly, must be reined in. Further new habitats have been added and bird feeders and boxes bolstered; another hedgehog house built and there are other plans. There are 4 new ‘flower/plant’ beds in the semi-circular garden, and we are trying to grow nature-friendly flowers and plants. Have you any that you could donate?

Community and Global – We need to make some greater progress on this section which, although ‘Silver’ is our weakest section. The section could be better supported and is a challenge again for 2026 along with a more robust support for environmental organisations and engagement with local leaders on environmental issues. These are all elements discussed in our weekly ECO Tips.

Lifestyle – This is ‘Silver’ but remains the section which we could improve the most – if everyone in our community works together and seeks to tread more lightly on God’ Earth. We have used the ECO Tips section on the Weekly Sheet to offer suggestions that we can all follow, have you implemented any?

Plans for 2026 – Although this is a look back at 2025 let’s see what we can do in 2026. We have created a Churchyard Management Plan and will be featuring elements in our working parties with our 3 aims in mind (see above). We will be posting a chart at the rear of church “Do something at home to Help Nature” and will be encouraging families to take an interest and note what they have done (perhaps also adding a photo). Please Support Us! Many thanks.

Al Gillian

FLOWER TEAM

The Flower Team has again had another busy year and we hope everyone has enjoyed the floral tributes created for church. We would like to thank those members of the congregation who continue to sponsor the flowers at the altar to commemorate an anniversary or act of remembrance and those members who donate money to the open plate for the larger arrangements at Christmas, Easter and Harvest. Your support is much appreciated as are the positive comments we have received – thank you.

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There is just one of us on the Flower Team as I write this although Hannah Manifold has been persuaded to help out on a couple of occasions during the year to produce lovely displays.

I would be very grateful if anyone would like to join the team or to help out at Christmas, Easter or Harvest. Just a love of flowers needed! Get in touch and I can gladly talk you through what is involved.

There are a few weeks when we don’t have a sponsor, so please get in touch if you would like to remember an event, date or person in your life by sponsoring a flower arrangement at the altar. Flowers are initially arranged to be displayed by the altar and as flowers generally last at least 2 weeks, they are then moved to be displayed by the curate’s chair or to the memorial table in the porch.

Tracey Manifold

HOSPITALITY TEAM

Coffee and tea are usually served after every 11 am Sunday service thanks to our dedicated team of volunteers. This calendar year, ending December 2025,we have raised £732.00 for our 3 charities, Tameside Breast Care Unit, Dementia UK and CRIBS ( an international charity helping women and children fleeing conflict).

Coffee is served in the Parish Hall in the back room and more and more folk do seem to be enjoying a sit down and natter after the service. The hall is now also regularly used for parties which is a great source of income towards running and continuing to renovate the hall. It does however mean that coffee needs to be served at the back of church if the hall is in use. Some people find this more convenient for a quick coffee after the service, some find it too crowded. It remains a moot point as to where is best but hopefully the combination goes some way to accommodate everyone.

Thank you to everyone who has, brewed up, cleaned up, donated biscuits, collected and counted our donations, shared a cuppa and donated!

Rachel Damianou

CARD DISTRIBUTION TEAM

An estimated 2778 cards were distributed at both Easter and Christmas by the team of 40 volunteers. Once again distributions included St Anne’s

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school in Lydgate, and the Care Homes / elderly accommodations at The Old Mill House, Hood Square and Lido House, all in Grotton.

With regards to the volunteers who deliver the cards, we will have one vacancy available at Christmas 2026 with David Bond moving to Derby to be near his family.

Special thanks to Charlotte (aged 9) for her superb card designs and of course to all the children who contributed their efforts.

Once again both the Easter and Christmas cards were received in good time and a BIG thankyou to the Production Team for their efforts. Continued thanks to Chris at Colormania for the excellent service he provides in printing the cards in a timely manner.

As well as the cards delivered at Christmas we sent a flier to every home in the parish for our Christmas Appeal which brought in over £3200. So thank you.

A reminder that we do have a list for deliveries to people living outside the Parish and any new contacts will always be welcomed.

Richard Buckley 07805 970799 Richard.buckley17@btinternet.com

GIRLGUIDING - RANGERS, GUIDES, BROWNIES AND RAINBOWS

We have four Girl Guide Association units at Lydgate, covering all age ranges: Rainbows (5-7 years old) which is run by Honey Marland with two unit helpers (Jess and Claire), Brownies (7-10 years old), run by Vicky Adam and Taylor Joseph, Guides (10-14 years old) which is run by Lisa Carter and Fran Curley and Rangers (14-18 years old), run by Sue Rooke and Honey Marland. We currently have three Young Leaders in training and one volunteering as part of her DofE Service.

We have approximately 65 girls attending regularly, enjoying learning new skills, doing badges (of course!), playing games and taking part in a wide range of activities. In 2025, we had Brownie Pack Holiday at Springfield Park, a Guide Camp and an activity day at Dog Hill. Trips out included the cinema, Summit Up, Oldham and Cockfields farm. We celebrated International Women’s Day and once again got involved in National Parliament Week.

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Our numbers are always growing and we always need new volunteers to help us run the units, so if you or someone you know have a couple of hours a week to spare, come and join us!

We all meet on Thursday nights at the Parish Hall:

Rainbows 6-7pm

Brownies 6.30 – 8pm Guides 7 – 8.30pm

Rangers 7.30 -9pm

Lisa Carter - Guide Leader (lisa.carter70.lc@gmail.com)

LYDGATE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

In 2025 the aims of the LCA remained the same:-

Although the broad objectives of the LCA are to improve the experience of living in our locality educationally, socially and environmentally, the responsibility of maintaining and running the Parish Hall, still took precedence. However, the wide variety of activities on offer at the hall have a positive impact for residents. In any one week there are 20 sessions with on average 300 people aged from 5 to 91 accessing them. We also welcomed 40 one-off users for parties and fund raising activities.

The safety and comfort of users is of paramount importance to us. The high standards of cleanliness and décor are often commented on and a definite selling point when people are looking to hold parties and other celebrations. We appointed a new team of cleaners who share our commitment and who do an excellent job.

Keeping the hall warm is not just for the comfort of users, indeed many of the very physical activity groups request that it is not put on. We do keep the hall at an ambient temperature however to minimise damp and condensation, which is a problem in such an old building. The Utility bills are our biggest expenditure, and we installed a HIVE system so that it can be monitored and if needs be adjusted remotely.

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In 2025 £2,420 was spent on maintenance mostly electrical work and decoration, although £960 of that covered costs that would normally have been paid for by the PCC. Both organisations are committed to making the best of the hall and future proofing it both as a financial asset for the church and a community hub for local residents. We have an excellent working relationship with Church Warden Paul Roberts who has ensured that when funds are available, works are carried out on the outside structure and fabric of the building. Similarly, when funds allow the LCA in discussion with Paul agree to cover costs on structural repairs to the building. In Octobe, three LCA Trustees met with the Church wardens for their annual meeting as set out in the Management Agreement. Throughout the year the LCA Trustees on the PCC, Al, Rachel and Simon kept to PCC up to date with any developments.

The tragedy in Southport stunned everyone and made us think very seriously about the safety of people using the building. Health and Safety had always been top of our responsibilities. All necessary tests and checks were completed and policies and risk assessments updated and circulated. However, this threat to people’s safety was beyond our imagining and made us look very differently at safety and accessibility. A bell was fitted to both doors and guidance given to all users. In the longer term we are pursuing a grant for cameras and maglocks.

Safeguarding remained at the top of our agenda. All Trustees have basic training even though they are not delivering activities. The policies are circulated to all users and are available on the LCA website.

The ten Trustees continued to make a huge contribution in 2025. I am extremely grateful for their commitment and hard work.

During the year our regular team of local volunteers continued to give support. We have approximately 16 who completed a wide variety of tasks. Not only does this help get works done without expenditure but also increases the feeling of shared responsibility and ownership.

2025 also saw continued support from the community financially. Our Membership scheme brought in £450 and Fund-raising activities, including the very successful VE Day brought in £1,200. The Love Lydgate Monthly Talks, a key fundraiser for the hall and a great community get-together brought in £872.68. We have continued to be supported by Love Lydgate, who provided a stand-alone heater and paid for a timer on the Christmas Lights connection as well as plants for the hanging baskets and planters

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at the front of the hall. The objectives of Love Lydgate and the LCA are the same, the LCA just having the added responsibility of creating and maintaining a community hub. We recognised that there is a great deal of overlap and 2025 saw the beginning of the process to combine the two organisations.

Jennifer V M Greenwood Chair of LCA.

SAFEGUARDING POLICY AND STATEMENTS

The following policy was agreed at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting held on 8th January 2026.

In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding Policy our church is committed to:

Promoting a safer environment and culture. Safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children, young people and vulnerable adults within the church. Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation. Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons.

Caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons.

Responding to those that may pose a present risk to others.

The Parish will:

Create a safe and caring place for all. Have a named Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) to work with the incumbent and the PCC to implement policy and procedures. Safely recruit, train and support all those with any responsibility for children, young people and adults to have the confidence and skills to recognise and respond to abuse.

Ensure that there is appropriate insurance cover for all activities involving children and adults undertaken in the name of the parish. Display in church premises and on the Parish website the details of who to contact if there are safeguarding concerns or support needs. Listen to and take seriously all those who disclose abuse. Take steps to protect children and adults when a safeguarding concern of any kind arises, following House of Bishops guidance, including notifying the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser (DSA) and statutory agencies immediately.

Offer support to victims/survivors of abuse regardless of the type of abuse, when or where it occurred.

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Care for and monitor any member of the church community who may pose a risk to children and adults whilst maintaining appropriate confidentiality and the safety of all parties.

Ensure that health and safety policy, procedures and risk assessments are in place and that these are reviewed annually.

Review the implementation of the Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Practices at least annually.

Each person who works within this church community will agree to abide by this policy and the guidelines established by this church.

Review date: January 2027

POLICY STATEMENT ON CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND THE CHURCH - This statement must be read out to at least one PCC meeting each year, where progress in implementing it will be monitored.

As members of this Church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection and safekeeping of all, especially children and young people. It is the responsibility of each one of us to prevent physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children and young people and to report any abuse discovered or suspected.

Our Church is committed to following the Safeguarding Children and Adults at Risk Manchester Diocese Handbook of Policy and Procedures. Each worker with children and young people must have a clear Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate, undertake diocesan Safeguarding training, know the guidelines and undertake to follow them. Each shall be given a copy of the Parish’s agreed procedures and good practice guidelines. They shall also have an interview with the Church Wardens before commencing their role.

Our Church is committed to supporting and training those who work with children and young people and to providing supervision.

As part of our commitment to children and young people the PCC has appointed Mrs Katie Lockey to be the Parish Safeguarding Officer. The parish’s agreed procedures and good practice guidelines can be viewed by asking the Churchwardens or the Parish Safeguarding Officer. Children and young people are an important part of our Church today. They have much to give as well as to receive. We will listen to them as we nurture them in worship, learning and in community life. We will respect the wishes and feelings of children and young people.

Review date: January 2027

POLICY STATEMENT ON SAFEGUARDING OF ADULTS - This statement must be read out to at least one PCC meeting each year, where progress in implementing it will be monitored.

We recognize that everyone has different levels of vulnerability and that each of us may be regarded as vulnerable at some time in our lives.

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As members of this parish we commit ourselves to respectful pastoral care for all adults to whom we minister.

We commit ourselves to the safeguarding of people who may be vulnerable, ensuring their well-being in the life of this church. We commit ourselves to promoting safe practice by those in positions of trust.

The parish commits itself to promoting the inclusion and empowerment of people who may be vulnerable.

It is the responsibility of each of us to prevent the physical, emotional, sexual, financial and spiritual abuse of vulnerable people and to report any such abuse that we discover or suspect.

We undertake to exercise proper care in the appointment and selection of those who will work with people who may be vulnerable.

The parish is committed to supporting, resourcing, training and regularly reviewing those who undertake work amongst people who may be vulnerable.

The parish adopts the guidelines of the Church of England and the Diocese.

Each person who works with vulnerable people will agree to abide by these recommendations and the guidelines established by this church.

Review date: January 2027

GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

STANDING COMMITTEE

This is the only committee required by law. It has powers to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings subject to any directions given to it by the Council.

Its members are: Team Rector, Churchwardens, PCC Vice-Chair, PCC Secretary, Treasurer, and one other PCC member.

FABRIC AND BUILDINGS COMMITTEE

To maintain the fabric and grounds of the church buildings within the finance available.

To consider and recommend improvements to the economic use of the buildings and grounds.

To consider and recommend how the buildings and grounds might be altered to the benefit of the various uses of them.

To organise any repairs, improvements or alterations when agreed by the PCC.

To arrange the use of the Parish Hall to the mutual benefit and enjoyment of all the users.

WORSHIP COMMITTEE

To explore the nature of our worship, the service we hold and the liturgy and music they contain.

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To consult the congregation on matters of worship and discuss findings with the Team Rector.

To discuss changes were appropriate.

SOCIAL AND FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE

To organise social activities within the life of the Church.

To organise fundraising activities for the benefit of the Church and Parish Hall.

TASK GROUPS

These are set up for specific purposes and then disbanded.

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL - OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The primary object of St Anne's Parochial Church Council is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. It also has responsibility for cooperation with the Team Rector in promoting throughout the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

PCC MEMBERSHIP SINCE APCM 2024 :

Rev Sachin Awale (Team Vicar Chair from September 2024) Mrs Elizabeth Brocklehurst

Mrs Joanne Coxon Mr Simon Edge Mr Al Gillian (Treasurer) Mrs Lesley Greenwood Mrs B Hodgson (Ex officio Churchwarden and PCC Secretary) Mr Nick Jones (Vice Chair) Mrs Laura Parker Mr Paul Roberts (Ex officio Churchwarden) Mrs Vicky Stott

CHURCH SERVICES

The following services were held in St Anne's Church during the year from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025:

2025 2024
Comparis
on
Sunday Services Eucharist 38 38
Service of the Word 12 12
Weekday Family 46 46
Service
Other Weekday 10 9
Services
Baptism Services 33 41
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ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2026

Marriage Services Including a renewal of vows 11 6
Burial & Funeral 16 5
Services
Internment of Ashes 3 5
Total of all 169 151
Services

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Parish of St Anne, Lydgate Charity Registration Number." 1132948 Financial Ststements for the Year ended 31 December 2025

Parish of St Anne, Lydgate INDEX Page A3 Financial Report Page A5 Independent Examinerfs Report Page A6 Statement of Financial ActNities Page A7 Statement of Financial Activities 2024 Page A8 Balance Sheet Page A9 Notes to the Financial Statements Page A10 Incoming ReSoUr￿S Page A11 Incoming Resources (Continued) Page A11 Resources Expended Page A12 Resources Expended (Continued) Page A13 Net Position. Transfers, Revaluations & Total Balan￿S Analysis of Funds Page A14 Analysis of Fixed Assets Current Assets & Liabilities Page A15 to Page A18 Funds Statements

Parish of St Ann4 Lydgate Treasurer's Report 2025 has been something of a steadying year, as we have tried to ￿abIll$e our Gener￿ Fund {everyday) income and expenditure. The ?024 Stewardship Campaign had limited impact and volunthry. income did not increase sutyiciently to balance ihe relentless increase in costs. despite our best effons to control them. In late 2025 we took the decision to have a Christmas Appeal for funds and this raised a creditsble £3,137 enabling the General Fund to end the year with a tx)sitive balance- J￿5t having been £2:020 greater at the end of ?024. Our Finances ill 2025 - In ihes¢ pages vou will find all you need to know about income, expenditure, our reserves and much more, so do take time to I￿k through the numlkrs. On this and the next page I have tried to draw out in words, the most imrM)rtant aspects, but ihere will be much I havenl mentione& so do please look for yourselves. a) Our incorne for the year totslled £72.647.22 and we spent £83,42?.82, so a deficit of £10.775.60 which includes £9,779.89 taken from restricied reseTres to coN'er building repai[3 (church and hall) and the purchase of the Smart TV and its siand. With the volatile sI￿k market during the year our reduced investments have shrLmk slightly. Our reserves {excluding the nominal va]ue of the Parish Hall) remain significant al ££95,113.13. The dIstrib￿lOn of those reserves across the various Unrestricted Designated and Restrieted Funds ¢an be seen at Pages A8 and Al 5 to Al7. a) On pages AIO & Al l there is a ￿11 breakdown of our income: (i) Standing Orders are up by 3.60/0 or £945 for the Thhole l'ear. (ii) Ther¢ has also been an incfrrase of £392 in giving through the blue Free Will Envelopes. (iii) Gift Aid ￿ recovered is the same as 2024, bar a few pence. (iv) Other Planned Giving has reduced for £2.680 to £1.540 after 2024's increase. {v) Pl3Te cash has remained virtually the same. but Bayism collections are down b￿Yse we did fewer services in 2025, although the number is on the increase again in 2026. (vi) Card giving is up sharply again at £1,750.81 compared £617 tn 2024. The nvo machines now have 4 payment options on screen- £3, £5. £10 & £20 for people to choose from wilh the option to revert to the keypad screen lo choose another aMOL￿t. It would be go(Ml if the Sunday sidespeople ￿0k the machines around the congregation everv week during the collection h)Inn. Ai Wednesday seryices the older children are very proficient and successfi]l at offering this oplion. (vii J i ne Lnnstmas trajre prorii was up over 14 /• at * i.yoy.ts I In 2vi) DUL overaii: rnn¢Jraising ieii oy 2J/• despile a very bou)'ant 200 Club, iihich gener￿ed a net £1:49J for church ￿nds. We need to have a more active Social & Fundraising Team with more frequeni events thai help us d¢i'elop fellowship whilst raising fiinA (Yiii) Fee income is. of course. unpredictable, bui did pmvide a welcome increase in 2025 with an increase in weddings. 2026 is lookitkg even more positive with ￿eddIng I￿kIngS in double figures. However, whilst there will be other services such as fi￿eral5 inierments of ashes t￿. this cannot be planned income. b) iA)oking now at expenditure (see pages Al l & Al 2): {1) The cosi of generating funds remained sthbles. (li) Our eharitable giving improved significantly to £1,016 (2024: £642) and the 3 charities to benefit were Crisis, Saddleworth Street Pastors and Smile Train UK. Although this does not take ac£ount of other charitsble giving, SLEch as FwdbanL The Children's Society. Lent and Advent appeals, which have all been very successful again. (iii) For year 2 of our Parish Share Agreemenl our targel of £38,110 was met in full. In 2026 our target is £40,023 and later this year we will be discussing a further 3-year Agreement. (iv) Team costs are spread over WoTking Expenses, Housing Costs, Assistant Stsff. Pasioral Care, Team Administrator Salary and Team Administrdtion and were up slightly at £8.561. Continued on page A4

Continued from page A3 (v) Our Mission & Evangelism is important and Bibles were given to all Year 6 children along with pictLtre Bibles for the Reception Class children at St Anne's School covered by maiching donaiions. Our sh are of Whit Friday costs remained at £800. (vi) Following the mid-terni review within our gas contract the cosi of gas reduced from £7,247 in 2024 to ££5,833. although still a substantial amount. {vii) Electricity Costs, insurance,and water are largel} the Same, but cleanin& and costs of services (Upkeep of Services have all been a bit dearer in 20?5. (viii) Renewals and routine maintenance are up sharply after a quiet year in 2024. There has been significant monev on what we would describe as Major Works for which the cost has been covered from Restricted Reserv¢s: (a) Repairs to the Parish Hall exterior stonework and asso¢iated issues - £2,590 (b) Re-seating the secondar), glazing on the 4 w"esilevation church ￿7ndOwS -£760 {c} Replacemeni £utterin& downnpipes and roof repairs on the Lychgate-£l:000 (d) Replacement of karl0￿5 paties of gl&ss in church -£906 (e) Remedial work to Ihe lighning conductor on the church tower-£780 (fj Purchase of a Smart TV and &ssociated stand (mones, donated for just such a purchase)- £1.418.89. a) Where are our Reserves (pages Al 5 to A17): (i) Our resiricted fi￿d$ have reduced to £90.148 following the above works. buf the Quinnquennial Inspection eonducted in 2024 has highlighted the need for subSt￿tial further repaTrs recommended by the Church Architect to be undertaken, he suggests. by2029. En iothl the costs are estimated ai c. £330,000 and clearly not within our immediate grasp. However, w'e can apply for grdnts to cover such cost. If successful grant funding will help us repair 2nd renovate the E8St ￿,]ndOW (c £35,000). replace the remaining strap pointing I￿1th the recommended Lim¢ mortar (c. £120,000)" renew the roof (c £1 iO.000) and warious other remedial works. (li) The largest restricted fimd is Bequest & Donations with £83.693 the rettkaining funds from the Muriel Wills Bequest restricted to the partsh, and there is a further £4.253 in the associated Des1￿M￿d Fund. (iii) The purpose of other restricted funds will be obvious from the fund names. UsiDg our resour¢es in 2026 attd the Y￿r$ lo come: a) Our ability to complete the w￿S recommended by the A￿hItect will call for considerdble help from our whole church family., either in monelary terms or help to obthin extemal finance through grants. There are grant-making bodies that specialise in stsined glass or heritage asseLS (Church is a Grade Il listed building and thai will help). The Parish Hall is not lisied. bul is ￿lihing a Conservation A further option will be an approa¢h to the whole Parish using our Distribution NetworL will require a detailed Finacial Plan if it is to generate ihe sort of sums needed, so should not be rushed. c) As part of the Church of England we are tasked with working I0￿.ardS Net Zero bv 2030 and that's in less than 5 years. What are we going to do to reduce our Carbon Footpriniry Thts will probablj. require replacement of our heating sbstem with a CarL)n-neulral aliemative. The ¢apital cost will be significanL but there would be real benefits in helping protect God's gifi - the world. our plaTJeiary" home, btrt could also help by ￿ducutn8 our running costs. d) The climate crisis seems very real to me. tknes it feel real to you ￿1th the storms, flooding, wildfires and other unnatural man-made dis&5ters. We should remember that we have 2 buildings and the Parish Hall may well need the same upgrdde &8 the church to meet the Net Zero target. Al Gillian, Parish Treasurer A4

Independent Examiner's Report to The Parochial Church Council of St Anne's Church, Lydgate I report on the financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2025, which are set out in the accompanying pages. Respe¢tii'e reswn5ibilities of trustees and e￿Miner As PCC members you are responsible for the p￿paratIon of the financial statements. The PCC members consider that an audit IS lloi required for this %ear (under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 A¢t)) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility lo- examine the accounts (under sectÉon 145(l Ka) of the 2011 Act); to follow the procedures laid dow]J in the GeneTa] Directions given by the Charity Commission (under s¢¢tion 145{SXb} of the 2011 Art)- to state whether particular matters have come io my attention Basis of indepeDdeDt esamiller's rep)rt My examination was carried out in accordance with the Genet71 Directions given bv the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the a¢counting tEcords kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes considerdtion of an>, unusu items or disclosures in the accounts, and seekin? explanaiions from you as trustees concerning atty such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all ihe evidence that would be required in an audiL and consequently I do not express an audil opinion on the view given by the a¢¢ounts. IDdepeDdent e￿miner'S ststement In connection with my examination. no matter h&s come to my attention: (l ) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 A¢t' and to PTepare accounts which accord with th¢ accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Aa. have not been met; or (2) to which. in my opinion. allention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understsnding of the accounts to be reached. Mr Michael Rovle BA FCA Chartered Accoutitant 15 Burne(Ige Fold Road Grass¢roft Oldham OL4 4EE 26th April 2026 A5

4 0 QQ p4 • p4 < i r- < A6

Parish of St Anne, Lydgate BglaDce Sheet as at 31 Deeember 2025 2025 2024 Notes Fired ll￿ets 5A Tangibl¢ assets 5B Investments 90.000 97.272 85.494 Total fixed assets 175,494 187.272 Currenl assets Debtors 7 Cash at bank and in hand 3.011 7,826 3.635 8,862 Totsl current assets 10,837 12.497 Curreni liabilities 8 Amounts falling due within one year Ivet Current 9.619 9.895 Toial ￿Sets 185,113 197.167 4 Funds 9 Unrestricted Funds 9 Designated Funds 9 Restricted Funds 9 Endowment Funds 359 4.607 180.148 2.358 4.785 190,024 Tolal Funds 185.113 197.167 Approved by ihe Parc*hial Church Coun¢tl on 26th April 2020 and signed on its behalf b).: Revd Sachit) Awale Mr Paul Rokrts Mr Alastsir Gilltan The notes on pages A9 to A18 forni part of these accounts

Parish of St Anne, Lydgate Notes to the finaDcial 5ftemewts forthe ytr tndtd 31 Dece￿ber 2025 I ACCOUNTING POLICIES a) Basi5 of a￿oUntIng The fin8n¢i&l staiemcnts h&ve the histori￿ LM￿1 C￿)￿"ertli0rt Is mcmlifted bi" the revaluation of cenain fixed assets and aecon1ance i%ith the Ch￿reh A￿￿Oll￿tIng Reglllaiions 2(K>6 together iith applicable a¢¢ouniin8 standarts and the FRS102. The financial statements include all tran5action assets and liabilities for i¥hich the PCC is resFrf)nsible in lau". The￿ £k) rKrt include the accounts of chyreh gfOUPS th othe their main affiliation Èo anothff nor those that are informal gatherings of such MeM￿rS. bl FuDds EpTdOH'me￿fj{Th4S are fimds. the capital of ￿"bIth mLk# be maintained. onltr in¢om¢ grisiog fiDm investment of the end0￿Meftt may be used eiiher &s rcstri¢ted or ￿nrestriCt￿l funds dyrtdirtg the purp)se for whi¢h the eAth)￿Ment M'as established. Resiri¢tedfyFkb r¢pr¢seni lal incryne fr(xn trustsor en(kninents Mthith maj b¢ ext¢nd¢d only on th03¢ resiri¢ted tsbjects provid¢d in the rms ofihe tnjsi or EwuesL and (bl Iknations or gr4nts receii'ed for a specific object or InTri￿ b% th¢ PCC for * S￿lf1¢ objed. Th¢ fvn or les5 are ￿Titten off the assei is acquiroj. li is the Trusitts w>lic)' not to undertake a form￿ rn'ajuation of land and ￿lIding$ and no deprecsation is proNided in their respect a5 the currenti%" e5tima*d residual value {ths¢ount&d for rnoneiary inflation sinee capitalisattonl is t￿l Icss than the can)"tng i'alue and the remaining use￿1 life of th5s asset CUTrenil} exceeds 50 >trdr& so (hat ani. depreciation charge would be itnTr¥ttial. If: in the future. the ¢arrving Nalve of the building should l(KTrk 8reer than the current value 4)n this bBSÈS att impal￿¢nt review Mill be c8rrie41 (wt artd any resultant loss included in exrKnditure for )'e4r. Investments Ini"estme•ts are kaiued * markel value FAsed rnid-rnarkd tKices & 31 DeccmFKr.

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4*1r. 2X A12

Parish of St Anne, Lydgate Notes to the flluDciil 5tatemetsts for the yur ended 31 Decembtr 2025 5 ANALYSIS OFFIXED ASSETS FurnÉtsre & Equipm¢nt.:: 5A Tngible A￿ts Freehold L•nd & Bgildings lovestments Tfjtst 2025 Totsl 2024 Cost or Vxlutio On 1st January AdditiOn￿RevaIUdtt0n GainlLnss) Disposals On 31st December 97272 11.2781 10.500 187.272 592.097 10.500 175 94 9,850 187 72 Deprecigtioo: On 1st January Charge for the Year Deduct for di5rK>sals On 31st December Net Book Value: On 1st lanuaTr' On 31st December 97272 8S494 187,272 175,494 192,097 187372 The freehold land & building is the Parssh Hail. which is owned by Manchester Dio¢esan Board of Finance and held in tNst for the Parish. li was lasi valued in 1999. bui the PCC is of the opinion th the￿ is no benefit in incurring th¢ ¢osi of revaluation at this time, although the value is likel) io be ¢onsiderably in excess of the figure quoted. Equally there is not deemed ￿ be any need to rn8ke a provision for d¢precialion Istt dethiled on page A9). The church buildin8 Is a consecrated property and 15 excluded from the finan¢ial swemenLS by virtue of section 1012lla) of the Clwitie5 Act 2011. The church buildings and wn1¢[￿ were insured for 2024 bi" Trinitss Church Insurance Services for £6.876.289 [buildingl and £175,333 Ic4)ntentsl. The Parish Hall insurdnce trnnsferred io Triniths Church Inwro￿¢t Setvices from renewal on 24th June 2020 and is insured for £1.086,196 {buildingsl and £21.726 {conientsl. The cost of indemnity insurdnce forthe Tntsiees of Lyd8ate Comtnunity Associ81ion CIO (LCAI is now being paid for by the LCA. SB IDve5¢ffj¢o¢ Ayets 21125 CBF Church tsf Englat)d Investment Fund Income Shares CBF Church of Eng]and Investment Fund A¢¢umulaon Shares 1.798 83,696 85.494 1.873 95.399 97.272 6 Debtors 2024 Debtors 3.011 3,635 3,635 7 C•sh at B*Dk and i# H•nd 2025 2024 Cash Flokner Fund Cash HSBC CuTrent Aceount CBF Lkposit Account Natw'est 200 Club 71 48 7.172 402 133 23 103 8,038 335 363 7026 8.862 8 Crnditors 21)25 21)24 Amounts falling due within l y Age￿Y ¢oll¢¢ttons 1.071 147 1.720 883 l J18 2.603 A14

A15

A16

c< r< A17

A18

Independent Examiner's Report to The Parochial Church Council of St Anne's Church, Lydgate I report on the finan¢ial ststements of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. which are set out in the aecompanying pages. Respective responsibilities ofirustees and e￿￿lDer As PCC members you are r¢s￿nSIble for the p￿paratIOn of the financial statements. The PCC members corksider thai an audit is not required for this )'ear (under Section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act)) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibÈlil)' to.. examine the aceounis (under section 145(1 Xa) of the 2011 Act)- to follow the procedures laid dowm in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissio (under section 145(5Xb) of the 2011 A¢t)- to state whether particular matters have come to Tny attention Basis of indepeDdent examiner's rewtyrt My examination was carried oui in accordance with the Generdl DiTection5 given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kepl b). the chariti, and a comparison of the accounts present¢d with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts. and seeking explanations frotn l.ou as trustees con¢crnÉng any Sllch matteT3. Th¢ procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audiL and consequently I do not expres5 an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts. IDdepeDdeDt t￿miner'S $tstemeJkt In connection with my examination. no matter has come to my attention: {] ) which gives me reasonable cause io ￿lieve that in any material respeci the requirements to keep accounting records rn a¢¢ordance w.ith section 130 of the ?01 l Ac to prepare a¢¢ounts w.hich accord with the accounting records and comply with the ac¢ounting requirements of the 2011 Act- have not been met- or (2) to which, in mv opinion. attention should be drnwn in order io enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Mr Michael Royle BA FCA Chartered Accountsni 15 Burnedge Fold Road Grasscroft Oldham OL4 4EE 26th April 2026