2024-12-31-accounts

The Parish of Sprotbrough

Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Parish of Sprotbrough for the year ended 31st December 2024

Incumbent

The Revd A Barraclough The Rectory 42a Spring Lane Sprotbrough Doncaster DN5 7QG

Bankers

Santander Bank 56 High Street Doncaster DN1 1UN

Independent Examiners

Messrs Brearley & Co Accountants 39-43 Bridge Street Swinton Mexborough S64 8AP

Membership

The method of appointment of members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All eligible church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and to stand for election to the PCC.

The following shows the membership of the PCC as at 31[st] December 2024.

Exofficio members
Rector	Revd Amanda Barraclough	2015
Associate Priest	Revd Robert Heaton	2016
Assistant Curate	Revd Christine Herbert	2022
Church Wardens	Janet Scott	2022
	MarilynShersby	2024
**Deanery Synod Representative **
	Lyn Hopson	2023/26
	Rachel Towers & Secretary	2023/26
Reader Emerita
	BettyBrockman	2024
Elected Members
	RobertPaskell(Treasurer)	2022/2025
	AngelaHudson	2021/2024/2027
	JamesInglis	2021/2024/2027
	Therese Paskell	2021/2024(Retired April 2024)
	Andrea Offord	2022/2025
	RogerOfford	2024/2027
	Derek Barraclough	2023/2026
	Carol Palmer	2023/2026

Aims and Organisation

The mission statement of St Mary’s Church states that our purpose is to Worship God and Welcome All. The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline measures 2016 (duty to have due regard to House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).

The PCC operates through the following committees, which meet between full meetings of the PCC.

Standing Committee

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

Vision Committee

This deals with matters relating to the ministry of the local church to the community and the world, including ecumenical links, evangelism and the support of mission and relief agencies.

Church, Building and Grounds Committee

This assists the churchwardens in executing their responsibility for the maintenance of the fabric and plant of St Mary’s Church, and also for the maintenance of both St Mary’s and Cadeby churchyards.

Social Events & Fundraising Team

Team to organise events that reach out into the Community as well as Church. The emphasis is on events that are enjoyable and fundraising is not the stimulus.

Rector’s Report

One of the realities of an annual report, looking back over the previous year, is that it is written early in the following year, with the anticipation of all that is to come on the horizon. That can frequently add new perspective on the past year, and enable it to be seen as purposeful as preparation for what is to come. That feels particularly true for this report.

The year began with Derek Barraclough and Sophia Drake, completing a sponsored abseil to raise money for the Stable Renovation Fund, securing around £1000. The feat involved some (very considerable) heights and a (no less considerable, but carefully managed) drop. It required courage, and took both well beyond their comfort zone. Perhaps a parable of church life in 2024, I find myself thinking. There have been a mixture of highs and lows, and the need for courage, faith and mutual support as folk stepped outside their comfort zone. But all this was preparation for what is to come. In the greater purposes of God, I sense 2024 has been a season of preparation, building foundations for the future, which next year’s report might reflect more fully.

My Sabbatical leave, running from July to September, released me to undertake some research whilst Derek and I were able to enjoy a slower pace of living. Book-ended by retreats at the start and end, the internal difference within my spirit were clear to me as I prepared to return, and I am grateful to those who ensured ministry was sustained in our absence. Robert, Lawrie, Betty and Christine covered Sunday ministry, and did much, along with other PCC members, behind the scenes to develop a sense of belonging and mutual support, sometimes in adverse and unpredictable circumstances. I was heartened by the heightened sense of God’s faithfulness and of shared support articulated on our return. It will stand St. Mary’s in good stead for the future.

The report written last year referred to the Vision Statement which was then new, and is now familiar. My sense is that the three key priorities are moving beyond being just three sets of tasks, (though they remain this) to becoming an embedded culture and a reference point, informing where our energies should lie. In other words, it’s not just about what we do, but who we are becoming. Significant work has been going on to research and prepare for the launch of a new congregation, ‘Families, Faith and Fun’, with a team being recruited and a programme drawn up under the leadership of Andrea Offord, in readiness for a launch in early 2025. It will enable us to move towards all ages to be more visible and valued in the life of St. Mary’s. Good preparation for the next phase! It was encouraging to see children delivering reflective pieces during the Carol Service; these began with a challenge in a school assembly and then took on a life of their own. The Holy Spirit is at work beyond the church – we only have to watch and see God at work!

Meanwhile, within the church we have welcomed 10 new members and shared in the joy of 3 Confirmations. New members are now intentionally invited to annual Cheese and Wine events at the Rectory to build relationships with the Ministry Team and one another – one of the ways we seek to develop a welcome which we’re told by many is good, genuine and warm. The social space which was new at the point last year’s report was written is now enriched by the kitchen facilities which allow for greater togetherness. This is the first phase of the planned redevelopment, and, again, preparation for the next steps in our shared life.

In seeking to be light in the community, welcome packs have been put together ecumenically and have been delivered to the new housing estate, as houses become occupied. Open the Book continues to enjoy rich engagement with the local schools, alongside the regular assemblies. Stretching times have been evident in our financial situation, and 2024 ended with a preparation for a Gift Day early in 2025 to help us resource future ministry. Tough decisions have led to the reduction in the Administrative support we are able to pay for, and the year ended with our thanks to Rachel as she steps aside from her Administrator role, and the appointment of Kaye Wynn to the more defined Bookings Administrator role.

Like an abseil, life in St. Mary’s has involved highs and lows, acts of courage and leaps of faith. But in the midst of it all, God has remained faithful and uses both highs and lows to his good purposes in the future. Revd. Canon Amanda Barraclough

Churchwarden's - Report

At the Annual General Meeting Marilyn Shersby responded to God’s call and was elected as another Churchwarden – thank you Marilyn. However, between us we still have responsibility for other areas that currently no one is dealing with, of which there are quite a few.

The proposed works for our Church are progressing with Phase 1, with the new kitchen completed. Further works are to follow in due course.

We have developed a schedule and are managing the maintenance requirements of all our three buildings.

Going forward, we always need further volunteers for various tasks – you’ll be very welcome. Churchwardens Janet Scott and Marilyn Shersby

Secretary – Report

Another busy year for Trustees over the past twelve months. The Trustees have faced a challenging year regards the financial resources depleting due to an aging congregation and in respect of volunteers to help with fundraising initiatives. At the end of the year a letter explaining the financial constraints St Mary’s was facing was sent to parishioners and this encouraged people to consider their level of giving.

The contentious issues surrounding the costs of maintaining Cadeby Churchyard provided an opportunity for the Trustees to introduce a scheme to re-wild the churchyard. However, this attempt was not overly welcomed or successful and though supported by the Diocese not the local community. Local parishioners were invited to a meeting held at Cadeby Church and made aware of the costs associated and the lack of monies received to help with the maintenance from local households. The future of this churchyard will continue to be an issue until the final available burial plot is taken and the churchyard can be closed and the responsibility of its maintenance passed to the Local Authority.

Our Rector and her husband, Derek, took a three month sabbatical over the summer and this was a learning curve when it came to identifying the gaps in the wider Ministry team’s knowledge but overall a positive team spirit ensured the Church services continued without incident. The Rector and Derek were very much missed in our Parish and Church.

The challenge of the Church re-developments which had been phased into two parts saw the new kitchen being installed over the summer and the second phase for the changes to the front of the Church undergoing various amendments through the Faculty process.

Finally the Parish Administer role was resigned at the end of the year. Financial constraints meant that only the role of Hall and Stable Bookings Administrator was the only part of the role that could actively be recruited. A successful candidate was engaged to take on the role of Bookings Administrator in the New Year but the wider Parish administrative jobs are expected to revert to the Rector or willing volunteers. Some roles as Secretary I will undertake. Rachel Towers

Deanery Synod - Report The Deanery Synod representatives are, as last year Rachel Towers and Lyn Hopson. Dave Berry is Area Dean. Dave had a sabbatical in 2024, so we did not have as many meetings as usual.

At our meetings we receive up-dates on what is happening in neighbouring parishes, sharing good news from each, and are also made aware of Diocesan priorities, clergy appointments and focus areas. The meeting in February, which was discussed in my last annual report focused on mission.

At our last meeting the main speaker was Jane Truman, Asst Director of Vocations. She spoke about her own faith journey and how her life experiences have led her to her current role. This is to provide support and guidance to all those exploring potential vocations. These can be persons seeking ordination, or roles within Lay Ministry, exploring their call, affirming and enabling them to carry on and thrive. Vocations are a complex picture, with many ways to serve, Lay Reader, Focal Ministry, Youth Worker etc, as well as ordination. Jane stressed the need to avoid hierarchy, demonstrating a triangle model which had the various roles written along each side and all integral to the whole. Jane also outlined the new ‘Grid of Qualities’ now used with candidates rather than criteria, i.e. Love of God, Clear sense of call, Love of people, do they show wisdom/fruitfulness, demonstrate potential. She talked through the candidacy process; Stage 1 involves an on-line meet, participation in 3 local panels, and 1 national panel. Stage 2 involves an overnight stay with group discussions, working in group situations, two in-depth interviews with reflections and recommendations from ‘Bishop’s Advisors, before progressing to the Bishop who determines what happens next.

We were also advised on the Deanery Strategy update. The 2018 strategy of ‘Renewed, Released. Rejuvenated’ will be kept as a focus. Another priority will be the ‘Lights for Christ’, encouraging us to walk in the light and reflect the light of Christ.

New jobs, such as Buildings Officer and Associate Archdeacon Transition Enabler (AATE) have been created. Mission Area Support Teams (MAST) will still be in place, these can be accessed for help, such as with potential grant applications. Mission Partnership Development Workers have been pulled, but funding will still be available for Centenary Project Workers.

Hub churches will be identified, any church which has a particular strength or area of expertise could become a Hub Church.

Dave advised that he had had some difficulty in obtaining updates from General Synod, and has undertaken to advise the Deanery once these were available. At the time of writing, no further information has been sent. Lyn Hopson

Safeguarding – Report

We take safeguarding within the Diocese very seriously and St Mary’s is no exception. All roles where a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service check) and training are needed, both requirements are met before an individual is able to take up their role.

We have training records which are maintained and updated as needed.

There are a number of administration tasks required to be undertaken within this role, currently being performed by Andrea Offord – thank you Andrea.

Our current PSO (Parish Safeguarding Officer) is Janet Scott who has indicated that she needs to stand down from this demanding but necessary role after many years. If God is calling you, is this a role you could undertake? Janet Scott

Church, Buildings & Ground Committee – Report

Last year we were awaiting the alterations to St Mary’s to begin. This year I’m pleased to report that phase 1 is complete, and we have a new kitchen and social area which is proving very popular. In addition, work at the east end regarding the coping has been done therefore stopping the water ingress, allowing the wall to dry out. Phase 1 work has allowed us to create dedicated wheelchair user access to the west end of church without the need for the ramp, and that works have been ongoing to consider the needs of the disabled following a disability audit completed by a small group led by Christine Herbert. The remaining reordering will take place in due course.

Work has also been completed in the Stable to improve the electrics which included a new circuit board.

With regard to the work at Cadeby is not to the church, which is not our responsibility but is however to the churchyard. The input of the Diocese has led to extensive work with a tree surgeon, in addition to the usual grass cutting costs. Generally the response for help was unsupportive without a volunteer base, leaving no alternative but to return to the original pattern of regular full cuts.

Current Health and safety policies exist for our buildings, and these are renewed on an annual basis.

As we do not have a specific Health and Safety Officer nor a general maintenance person (any volunteers?) and SMITE can only do so much, the organising of major maintenance, inspections and Health and safety compliance has fallen to the Churchwardens.

We would like to take this opportunity would like to say a huge thank you to Roger Offord and the SMITE (maintenance) team. Who work tirelessly every Wednesday to smarten up the Churchyard and keep on top of maintenance tasks both in the Church and grounds and also at the Hall and Stable. Thank you so much! It is very much appreciated. If anyone would like to volunteer for SMITE duties, please see Roger Offord. Janet Scott and Marilyn Shersby Church Wardens

Vision Committee – Report

Vision Committee meets quarterly, joining with the monthly Ministry Team meeting which feels both efficient and effective, giving continuity to Ministry Team members whilst adding the wider perspective additional voices invariably bring. The agenda brings some variation at differing seasons, but is largely undergirded with a clear focus on the three key priorities embedded in the Vision Statement we have developed.

As a community of Christians called by God to be a lighthouse of Christ’s hope and a refuge for the troubled, we aim to:

• Be a church where all ages are visible and valued.

• Deepen our faith through prayer, study and discipleship.

• Bring the light of Jesus to others in the community.

Mission Action Planning in 2023 highlighted the need for a clear and widely known Vision Statement, and after developing this in late 2023, 2024 has been focused on embedding it

so that it is a familiar part of our shared life. We check progress of each priority and identify possible next steps in implementation, working alongside small PCC working groups, where each PCC member has chosen the priority which most connects with them and their gifts.

The Mission Action Planning tool also highlighted the need for better co-ordination of Pastoral Care and as a result a small team has been working to ensure progress is made. Revd. Canon Amanda Barraclough

Churches Together in Sprotbrough – Report

The formal group ‘Churches Together in Sprotbrough’ no longer exists, though there are still limited funds held in a bank account, with signatories from both churches. This has been utilized to pay for Welcome packs, containing fridge magnet, welcome card and sunflower seeds, which have been delivered to houses on the new estate as they become occupied. Through the pulpit swap during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and a number of joint services over the course of the year, including the World Day of Prayer, and the Ten Days of Prayer, we have sought to sustain ongoing relationships between St. Mary’s Church and Sprotbrough Methodist Church. Occasional meetings of leaders show that we face many of the same challenges in ministry. The Methodist Church have requested that in future all services on Ash Wednesday, and Maundy Thursday, be delivered by St. Mary’s rather than the historic pattern of alternating. The Community Carol Service will also be delivered annually at St. Mary’s.

The ecumenical Bible Study and Open the Book continue to involve members of both churches, as do shared Lent Courses, which are agreed collaboratively. Revd. Canon Amanda Barraclough

Riverside Mission Area - Report

There is little to report, as both churches (St Peter’s Bentley and St. Mary’s) have largely operated independently from one another over the last year. Both parishes have adequate clergy provision (and both have a curate) which means there is little sense of need for closer collaboration. It is increasingly apparent that the cultural context and needs of each parish are quite different, so energies tend to be put in differing priorities. Both clergy are aware that, when either parish becomes vacant, they will not be replaced with a full time role, so planning for future ministry is an important factor in building collaborative partnerships. With a new Associate Archdeacon Transition Enabler now in post, efforts will be made to explore a possible way ahead. Revd. Canon Amanda Barraclough

Families, Faith & Fun

Following a PCC day to explore St Mary’s vision for the future, it was decided that one of our priorities should be “to make all ages visible and valued” with an emphasis on bringing more young families into the life of the church. Messy Church was no longer working and it was time for a refresh.

With this in mind, some research was carried out and a visit arranged to St Francis, Bessacarr, to see their “Integrate” session with young families in operation.

Liz Gibson, their main leader, came to speak to a group from St Mary’s who have been previously involved in children’s activity sessions. She explained how “Integrate” worked and a follow up meeting determined how we could adapt their model so that it worked for us.

A team of eight was formed, themes agreed, and the name of our group decided upon. Families, Faith and Fun was born!

We look forward to St Mary’s future with young families in our community.

(others in the team are Amanda, Adele Shaw, Alison Lumby, Janet Scott, Sue Silverwood, Heather Mears, Irene Heaton). Andrea Offord

Lay Pastoral Workers - Reports

Derek and Irene are the two licensed Lay Pastoral Workers here at St Mary’s, although we both recognise that a large part of pastoral support; visiting and contact is conducted by many in the congregation and often goes unrecognised. We would like to express our grateful thanks and say a massive ‘thank you’ to all who contribute to this role of love, support and care, within St Mary’s and in the wider community.…….

…… For me (Derek), being a Licensed Reader blurs the two roles, but both fit together well, and often what is said and done is usually in the background. We at St Mary’s are grateful for all the love and support in and outside our worshipping community. We continue with a service monthly at Richmond Care Home, though I have decided to prioritise other areas of ministry. One aspect for me is to try to converse with those attending services for the first time, with those exploring baptism - it is important to make them feel included, making them feel at home in a place which can feel like alien territory.

We continue to strive with our three priorities in our Vision statement; my personal area is outward looking, being lights for Christ in the community. Many thanks for your support and may God bless the wider ministry here in Sprotbrough. Derek Barraclough

…… For me (Irene), since the end of 2023 and into 2024, I have continued working closely with Christine and Robert in creating and further developing a Pastoral Care network for St Mary’s – which has now been running since June ’24, with a much wider Pastoral Care Team of 13. This has enabled the pastoral care at St Mary’s to become a much wider, shared ministry with the aim of now encompassing every member of the church family.

I have continued to have a large involvement in the running of one of the Fellowship Groups. Where we generally meet fortnightly and enjoy friendship and fellowship, all within a relaxed and informal atmosphere. By sharing and exploring the Bible together, and through song and prayer we’ve aimed to support and encourage the further growth and development of our Christian faith and our trust in the Lord, as we journey along together! This year some of the studies that we’ve explored, have included, ‘Biblical Women of courage’; ‘Identity’ and parts of the Christmas Account. Surprising discussions and discoveries have come out of these studies! (Please do consider joining one of the Fellowship groups!). P.S. We also share food and faith meals together sometimes too!!

I’m also involved in the Ministry and Vision Team meetings, where I’ve become part of a working group to encourage the deepening of faith and prayer within St Mary’s, linking in with the church’s ‘Vision Statement’ that has been drawn up. By using the creative ideas of this working team of 7, a prayer board has been set up in the prayer chapel, where people have been encouraged to use this quiet space for prayer and reflection, as well as having the opportunity of leaving prayer requests on the board – enabling others from the wider church family to pray for them too. This is proving to be well used, not just by the congregation of St Mary’s, but also by the wider community and visitors as they pop into church throughout the week.

Baptism visiting has also continued to be part of my pastoral work, which is always a great privilege to be involved in. Together with supporting the work that is carried out when Children Activity mornings/sessions are run in the church hall during some school holidays. Once again, thank you so much to all those who share these ministries with us. Irene Heaton

Website/Social Media – Report

Sprotbrough Venues – In 2024 I continue to maintain the website and included a photo gallery to promote the regular users and promoted various events on the front page. This site was temporarily used toward the end of the year to support St Mary’s Church content as the church’s dedicated website crashed. Overall the Venues website see little change. St Mary’s Church – This website became difficult to update throughout the year and eventually around September became impossible to work on. The Trustees were grateful to Mr Brian Bentley, a local resident, who voluntarily designed a new website, at no cost to St Mary’s, that would launch in the new year.

Facebook- The two Facebook pages for the Church and Sprotbrough Venues continue to be well subscribed. The Church Facebook has nearly 600 followers and continues to grow. The content is mostly related to the activities of St Mary’s and its outreach into the community as well as sharing Diocesan/Church of England content. The Venues website is relatively new and though followers are just over 100, the numbers are steadily growing. This page wholly promotes users of the Hall and Stable and associated classes, events etc, it also promotes the venues for private hire. Both pages ‘posts’ are regularly shared across local Facebook groups/hubs for Sprotbrough and Cusworth. Rachel Towers

Children’s Society Support Group - Report

Our small group of volunteers continue to raise funds for the Children’s Society and we are grateful to everyone who supports us. Once again we held Barbara’s quiz, a very successful and enjoyable evening raising funds for the society.

Thank you to everyone who has a Children’s Society box, many giving notes or cheque to support the society instead of loose change.

Thank you to the children, parents and staff of Orchard and Copley schools for their generosity filling their Christingle candles. Every year we enjoy making Christingles with the children from Orchard school and sharing with them their Christingle service.

A total of £1503.01 was raised for the society, so a big thank you to everyone. We couldn’t do it without your support. We are always looking for new volunteers so if you feel you can help in any way please contact me. Friends of the Children’s Society

Mothers’ Union – Report

Our branch of Mothers ‘Union continues to thrive having 19 members, however we will always welcome new members.

We have a varied and interesting programme and in 2024 we celebrated our 30[th] Anniversary with a special service in which our Diocesan president enrolled two new members. We were joined by members of the Deanery enjoying refreshments and fellowship together.

As members of Doncaster Deanery, we support Doncaster Women’s refuge, baby basics as well as Diocesan projects such as AFIA, providing a caravan holiday or days out for families in need.

We are proud to belong to an organisation with over 4 million members in 84 countries supporting families locally and worldwide. Helen Harwood, Branch Co-Ordinator

Sprotbrough Bellringers - Report Our primary purpose is to ring for Sunday Service and we calculate our Performance Indicator whereby 100% would be scored if we rang all 8 bells every Sunday. In 2024 our score fell to 62.6% from 77.1% in 2023. By comparison, Doncaster Minster, exceeded 90%, but that is very much dependent on support of ringers from other towers, enabled by a late service time. Sadly this has resulted in there having been no ringing some Sundays.

We currently have one learner who by the time of the meeting will be ringing on Sundays. However, we urgently need to recruit a lot more learners in order to stem the decline and return to previous levels of ringing. Tim Wheeler, Tower Captain

Event & Fundraising Team – Report

In the spring, a quiz night was held in the hall and, by advertising on social media, it attracted new people from the community. A good time was had by all.

In November, Christmas trees were displayed in church created by Orchard Infant School, Copley Junior School, Richmond Hill Primary Academy and the Levett School which were enjoyed by many people when the village Christmas lights were switched on.

The Christmas Fayre was once again very successful and enjoyed by all who came.

Thank you to all who supported these events in any way.

In total, these events raised £3,270 for church funds which, although a good result, is less than we hoped for. Last year we raised £4,585.

We hoped to organise a large summer event but without more active volunteers, our ideas had to be discarded.

Fundraising is needed now more than ever so please consider playing an active role in this important aspect of St Mary’s. Andrea Offord, Issy Mears, Sue Ekins, Sue Silverwood, Derek Barraclough & James Inglis

Jigsaw Library – Report

The Jigsaw club meets the second Thursday in the month from 10.30 -1.30 pm. Timings of the sessions changed in September 2024.

In June 2024 Reg resigned from running the jigsaw club owing to personal reasons. Thanks to be given for all his work in keeping the club running.

I had been assisting him for 6 months so decided to take over the running of the Club.

Carole Hall who had run the club previously offered to come back and assist me.

The Jigsaw Club has a regular group of people who attend every month borrowing a jigsaw and enjoying social time with everyone over coffee and cake.

In November 2024 we donated £50 to Wish for Will, £50 to Young Minds, £50 to the Children’s Air Ambulance and £50 to Breast Cancer Doncaster.

We have over 200 jigsaws and are hoping to look at specialising in dementia jigsaws in the future. Marilyn Shersby

Forget me Not Cafe - Report

The Forget me Note social event is now run by Angela Hudson and Carol Palmer, as Hilary Downs unfortunately had to stand down due to health issues.

This event has proved very popular and support/attendance has grown significantly during the last year and is consistently enjoyed by all who attend. A big thank you to Angela and Carol, who had many hurdles to overcome to attain the level needed to run this event. Their hard work is evident every month and they have been responsible for keeping this event ongoing. I would like to thank all the volunteers too, without their help this event would not be able to run. Janet Scott

Craft-antics – Report

This regular group has continued to be well supported over the last 12 months. Numbers attending the monthly meeting can fluctuate between 10 and 22. People will either come for the day or drop in for just a few hours, it keeps the group dynamic fresh! We draw people for the wider community not just church family. Though we do not charge any monthly subscription/fee it was decided to make a more encouraged voluntary donation for refreshments and occasional items for sale in view of the financial predicament the Church finds itself in and we raised £232 in 2024.

The group continues to be a positive atmosphere where people enjoy a very varied range of crafts including painting, sewing, crochet, knitting etc and locals across the Parish are encouraged to pop in just for a coffee and chat if they are not crafting inclined. I am very grateful to Carole Hall whom for her unfailing support by providing home baked refreshments and support at every meeting. Rachel Towers

Electoral Role Officer Report

The number of people on the electoral roll is 89. Christopher Davis

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

CHARITY NO:- 1133069

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

INFORMATION

Contact

Miss R Towers

Treasurer

Mr R Paskell

Trustees

Revd A Barraclough Revd R Heaton Revd C Herbert Mr D Barraclough Miss GE Brockman Mrs MA Hopson Mrs A Hudson Mr J Inglis Mrs A Offord Mr R Offord Mrs C Palmer Mr R Paskell Mrs J Scott mrs M Shersby Miss R Towers

Address	The Rectory
	42a Spring Lane
	Sprotbrough,
	Doncaster
	DN5 7QG
Accountants	Brearley& CoAccountants Limited
	Chartered Certified Accountants Ltd
	39/43 Bridge Street
	Swinton
	Mexborough
	S64 8AP
Bankers	Santander Bank
	High Street
	Doncaster
	DN11UN

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

CONTENTS

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, Page
Statement of Trustees' responsibilities 1
Accountants' report 2
Income and expenditure account
Restricted 3
Unrestricted 4
Balance sheet
Restricted 5
Unrestricted 6
Joint 7
Notes 8
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ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

STATEMENT OF THE TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES

The Parochial Church Council requires the Trustees to ensure that financial statements are prepared for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Church and of the surplus or deficit of the Church for that period. In the preparation of those financial statements. the Trustees are required to ensure that:,

• suitable accounting policies are selected and applied consistently:

• judgements and estimates are reasonable and prudent;

• • preparation of the financial statements is on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Church will continue in business.

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time, the financial position of the Church and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Parochial Church Council. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Church and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

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Signed: oe .
[sessucua@] [wens]
Signed: ous (Trustees)
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Date:- 21 May 2025

Page 1

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

| report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above for the year ended 31 December 2024.

As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act’).

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

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

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

2. the accounts did not accord with the accounting records;

| 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.

Brearley & Co Accountants Limited

Chartered Certified Accountants

39/43 Bridge Street Swinton Mexborough South Yorkshire $64 8AP

Date:- 21 May 2025

Page 2

|

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

RESTRICTED		2024		2023
	£		£	£	£
Restricted Funds
Othervoluntary			703		70
Fundraising			3,221		698
Investment			11,600		24,558
Church activities (Stable)			7,000		7,000
Grants			500		935
Gross Income			23,024		33,261
Resources expended
Running expenses	475			281
Utility bills (Winter hotspot)	-			217
Church maintenance	49,235			2,534
Church hall & stable maintenance	7,971			8,965
Other	3,017			1,713
Recategorise funds	-			2,191
			60,698		15,901
Surplus/(Deficit) fortheyear			(37,674)		17,360
Funds balance b/fwd			242,970		225,610
			205,296		242,970

Page 3

||

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

UNRESTRICTED		2024 2023
	£	£ £	£
Unrestricted Funds
Collections		7,246	6,494
Collections - Baptism		621	579
Collections - Funerals		858	1,802
Collections -Weddings		103	101
Planned giving		25,065	26,101
GiftAid and GASDS recovered		8,023	7,039
Church activities		26,800	25,315
Othervoluntary		8,406	3,450
Statutory fees retained by thePCC		4,672	8,803
Investments		1,962	1,764
Legacies		500	2,000
Grants Fundraising		- 3,270	2,150 4,139
Other income		262	60
Donations toothercharities notSDBF		934	242
Recategorise funds		-	2,191
Gross Income		88,722	92,230
Resources expended
Diocesan Parish share	43,000 43,000
Salaries, wages& honoria	10,610 9,410
Clergy and staffexpenses		948 1,742
Mission &evangelism costs		112 560
Church running expenses	25,831 19,419
Church utility bills	9,998 5,617
Charity donations		876 700
Cost of trading	10,712 12,767
Fundraising costs		14 186
Donations to other charities notSDBF		934 242
Other		192 15
	——s«403,227°°—~S~S—~—“—sStS::—S——:C«#		3,5
Surplus/(Deficit) fortheyear		(14,505)	(1,428)
Fund balance broughtforward		69,623	71,051
		55,118	69,623

Page 4

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

==> picture [459 x 441] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Restricted 31.12.24 31.12.23
£ £ £ £
Investments
Investments st 198
- 198
Current assets
Short term investments (CCLA) 165,871 221,132
Debtors (HMRC) 159 “
Bank 39,266 21.640
205,296 242,772
Current liabilities: Amounts falling due within one year
Creditors : -
Net current assets 205,296 ——~—~=« DTD
_ 205,296 actSA2 970
Parish Funds
Restricted 205,296 242.970
_205,296 __242,970
Signed: [oer .. (Treasurer)
Signed: 0/SA OW U2. oo...- (Trustees)
----- End of picture text -----

Date:- 21 May 2024

Page 5

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

==> picture [451 x 427] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted 31.12.24 31 12.23
£ £ £ £
Current assets
Debtors (HMRC) 2,164 3,279
Debtors (GASDS) 1,541 3,890
Bank 53,105 63,794
56,810 70,963
Current liabilities: Amounts falling due within one year
Creditors 1,692 1,340
1,692 1,340
Net current assets 5| |. 69,623
__55,118 _ 69,623
Parish Funds
Unrestricted 55,118 69,623
55,118 _ 69.623.
Signed: QO .. (Treasurer) .
signed: ABQueotten, won wefan va
Signed: YACW US...- (Trustees)
Date:- 21 May 2024
----- End of picture text -----

Page 6

ST. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

==> picture [450 x 459] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
31.12.24 31 12.23
£ £ E: £
Investments
Investments a «198
: 198
Current assets
Short term investments (CCLA) 165,871 221,132
Debtors (HMRC) 2,323 3,279
Debtors (GASDS) 1,541 3,890
Bank 92,371 85,434
262,106 313,735
Current liabilities: Amounts falling due within one year
Creditors 1,692 1.340
1,692 4,340
Net current assets 260,414 _ 312,395
_ 260,414 312,593 [°]
Parish Funds
Total funds 260,414 312,593
260,414 ___312.593
Signed: ole (Treasurer)
signes NBUualoy —
(Trustees)
[2)][ >.] [coeds]
Signed: YA [AOW]
Date:- 21 May 2024
----- End of picture text -----

Page 7

St. MARY'S CHURCH SPROTBROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1. Accounting policies

2. 1.1. Accounting convention The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011, the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the SORP 2019.

3. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. The financial statements include all transactions and assets. They do not include the accounts of Church groups that owe their affiliation to another nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members.

4. 1.2 Funds structures Restricted funds represent donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific project. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent for each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. Unrestricted funds comprise those funds which the PCC is free to use for ordinary purposes, Unrestricted funds include designated funds, where the donor has made known their non binding wishes or where the PCC, at their discretion have created a fund for a specific purpose.

5. 1.3 Incoming resources Collections and planned giving are recognised when received, tax recoverable on gift aid is recognised when the donation is received. All other incoming resources are sufficient reliability. All incoming resources are accounted for gross, recognised once the PCC has entitlement to them, it is virtually certain that they will be received and the monetary value can be measured with certainty.

6. 1.4 Resources expended The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. All other expenditure is recognised when a liability is incurred and is accounted for gross.

7. 1.5 Irrecoverable VAT Irecoverable VAT is charged against the category of resources expended for which it was incurred.

8. 1.6 Fixed assets

Consecrated property and movable Church furnishings

Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the financial statements by s.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 1993. Movable Church furnishings held by the vicar and Church warden on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are accounted for as inalienable property unless they cost below £5,000 or are consecrated. They are listed in the Church's inventory, which can be inspected. For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements. Subsequently no individual item has cost more than £5,000 so all such expenditure has been written off when incurred. All expenditure in the year on consecrated or beneficed buildings, individual items under £5,000 or on the repair of movable Church furnishings acquired before January 2000 is written off.

Fixed asset investments Investments are stated at market value. The Income and Expenditure Account includes the net gains and losses arising on revaluation and disposals throughout the year. The BlackRock investment was sold in October 2024.

• 1.7 Stocks Stocks of saleable items for fund raising are valued at cost and represent the amounts held on 31 December. No items were held on 31 December 2024.

1.8 Realised gains and losses

All gains and losses are taken to the Income and Expenditure Account as they arise. Realised gains and losses on investments are calculated as the difference between sales proceeds and opening market value (purchase date if later). Unrealised gains and losses are calculated as the difference between closing market value and opening market value (or purchase date if later).

1.9 Recategorisation of funds

• A transfer of £2,191 from the restricted funds to unrestricted funds was authorised during 2023. These monies represent the remaining balance on grants towards the winter hotspot which the grantors agreed could be used to support the Church Hall and Stable.

Page 8

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