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2025-12-31-accounts

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1133106

Report of the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 December 2025

for The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Contents of the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025

Page
Report of the Trustees 1
to 8
Independent Examiner's Report 9
Statement of Financial Activities 10
Balance Sheet 11
Notes to the Financial Statements 12
to 20
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 21
to 22

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees

for the year ended 31 December 2025

The trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

At St Boniface, as a parish church for our whole community, we aim to offer a wide variety of worship from traditional BCP Communion and Evensong to more contemporary café-style Brunch services and Forest Church. We are deeply grateful to our ministry team, lay and ordained, as well as our organists, choir and musicians, who enrich our worship so faithfully.

We are also blessed by our dedicated volunteers who support these services through welcoming, refreshments, setting up and cleaning. A big thank you to you all, and to Kay Carson for supporting Tim in drawing these various teams together.

We were delighted to appoint two new Churchwardens this year, Elaine Crotty and Astrid Logan. Tim is very grateful for their love and support, as well as that of the wider PCC. Special mention must go too to Beth Carson, archivist, who during the summer months digitalised our terrier and inventory.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

In 2025, the PCC undertook a cultural review using resources from Sean Augustin and the Diocesan Safeguarding Team. Looking ahead, our intention is to become a more reflective PCC: focusing each meeting on a key area of ministry and mission; a listening church: creating a safe and loving environment where all our congregations and groups can share what we are doing well and where we can grow; and an inclusive community: seeking especially to embrace those on the margins, so that we may share God's love with all. And special thanks to Amber Middlemiss for curating a road map for the coming year to help us to become a more inclusive community.

Tim and the PCC are very grateful to Amber for introducing a new course to St Boniface in 2025: The Bereavement Journey. It has been profoundly moving for all those involved and the feedback from all of our participants has been very positive. Special thanks too to Colin Stanyer for assisting Amber in leading these sessions and to Astrid and Lucy for their wonderful baking and hospitality.

Our Lent series was shaped by Nick Page's engaging and humorous book Badly Behaved Bible.Together, we reflected on the idea that the Bible is not meant to be tamed or made to fit our expectations, but approached as a map for discovery and encounter. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing how much they enjoyed the series.

Our Easter services were very well attended, and special thanks go to the team at Tilly's for welcoming us indoors on Good Friday due to the weather, and to our newly formed Easter choir, led by Sue Marrs of Just Sing, Bunbury's Community Choir. As Easter Day fell on a third Sunday, we were able to showcase our Brunch Service to the wider community, and we were delighted by the level of support.

Our ministry team also curated a Sermon Series on the theme of generosity: with time, with wealth, with attention and with talents. Special thanks to Tom Crotty, Mike Ridley and Stephen Broadbent for their excellent contributions.

There were a number of special services and events throughout the summer and autumn: a wonderful Deanery Songs of Praise at Cholmondeley Chapel, led by Tim as Rural Dean; a special tour of the J W Lees Brewery for the Men's pub crawl group, held in memory of Si Lees Jones, our former Churchwarden; a Celebration Service for the three RCSAT schools (including Bunbury) as they became part of the wider Diocesan CDAT group; and an All Souls' service, with a record number of names remembered-an important continuation of our funeral ministry.

Advent and Christmas were also marked by strong attendances, particularly at our Carol Service-thanks to Tom Crotty, Marcus Williams and John Mason-and at our DIY Nativity. It has been wonderful to see the Nativity grow over the years: from 12 children in 2019, to 30 in 2022, and a record 60 in 2025, all engaging creatively with the Christmas story. Special thanks go to Beth, Rose and Poppy for their dedicated work with our children and young families.

The Church was full for the annual carol service.

Page 1

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 December 2025

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial position

In 2025 there was an overall deficit of around £11k (before taking into account movement in the value of our investments). This is an improvement on the 2024 position of a £14k deficit, but clearly continues to be at variance with our financial goal of matching regular income with day-to-day running costs, in order to free up reserves to be used to invest in future growth.

We are very grateful for the regular giving and related gift aid income that we have seen this financial year. It forms the basis of our ability to continue confidently as a sustainable church. Despite this committed giving, the total of donations and legacies was less in 2025 than it had been in 2024 (£90k cf £128k), although much of the reduction was due to the receipt of a £30k legacy in 2024. The PCC recognises there is a need to work on increasing regular committed giving, and as preparation for this in 2025 we joined the Parish Giving Scheme. When it is rolled out fully to church members we hope to see it boosting giving in a sustainable way.

The intentional efforts to increase income through fund-raising continued, most notably through the launch of the "100 Club" (see above) and the holding of events in the church that reached out to the wider community such as the Quiz organised by the bell-ringers (see above). A "first" in that regard was a Comedy Evening at which Christian comedian Paul Kerensa played to a large audience in an entertaining and wellreceived show. These efforts - added to the customary fete income - largely explain the increase in trading activities income (£34k in 2025 cf £24k in 2024) and the associated increased spending on fund-raising. The increase in charitable activities income is primarily a result of an insurance claim for fabric work following storm damage (for which there is a commensurate increase in expenditure).

The income from investments remained similar in 2025 to that in 2024, but there was a disappointing reduction in the capital value of the CCLA funds that we hold. During a period when global markets were buoyant, there was an overall unrealised loss of over £17k (2024, gain of £11k) on investments valued around £422k. This appears to be because of a conservative stance adopted by CCLA, avoiding tech shares that performed very strongly. The Finance Committee will monitor future performance of these funds carefully.

Overall expenditure was less in 2025 than it had been in 2024 (£190k cf £205k), but some areas such as staff salary costs were higher by about £10k (due to the cost of more clergy cover) whilst others such as church fabric and maintenance were significantly lower, by about £17k overall. A range of smaller differences in other items accounts for the overall reduction of £15k. We continue to seek savings and value for money where possible where it will not impact our overall objectives. The PCC has maintained the policy of 10% of giving being allocated to charitable giving. Support is given to one international charity, one national charity and one local charity on a three-year rolling basis.

As noted in previous years, we continue to review the high level of restricted funds and how they may be utilised to support improvements to the fabric of the building and other matters that will enhance our mission.

The major movements in restricted funds relate to the youth worker, Challinor Fund and Churchyard fund. The fund for the youth worker showed a deficit of £8k during the year (2024 - £8k deficit). The PCC is considering how to address this position; there are sufficient reserves in the short term but action will be needed in the next few years. The Challinor Fund and Churchyard Fund continue to be used to support fabric projects and some parish administration costs.

The accounts for Calveley Chapel are consolidated within these accounts and are treated as a designated fund. There was income of about £5k in the year and expenditure of £3k. The Youth Club finances are also maintained as a designated fund and this made a surplus of £2k. It was agreed by the PCC that some of this surplus might be used to support the costs of the Youth Worker in 2026.

Reserves policy

The reserves policy was last reviewed by the PCC in 2017 when it was agreed that it should remain the same: to have a balance on unrestricted funds (excluding designated funds if possible), which equates to approximately six months' unrestricted payments, to cover emergency situations that may arise from time to time.

At the year-end there was a balance of £150k on unrestricted funds whilst six months' unrestricted payments in a normal year is of the order of £75k. The reserves target has therefore formally been met, but only once designated funds (which account for the vast majority of the unrestricted reserves) have been taken into account.

Although it is valuable to retain designated funds, it is possible that some of the existing fund levels are excessive and can be released to general funds, bringing the position more into line with the existing reserves policy. However, this is only a temporary solution and should not take away from the longer-term need (identified above) of seeking increased income through fund-raising and committed giving.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document

The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2022) and is a registered charity governed in accordance with charity and ecclesiastical law.

Page 2

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 December 2025

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Appointment of PCC Members

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules 2022. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The electoral roll was renewed in 2025. There were 102 people enrolled in that process and numbers have remained close to that for the duration of the reporting period.

The PCC

The PCC met 7 times during the calendar year including a brief meeting after the APCM in May. All the meetings were held "in-person" rather than remotely using zoom. The standing committee and a number of sub-committees met between meetings, and minutes or oral reports of their deliberations were received by the full PCC and discussed where necessary.

Health and Safety

The PCC regards maintaining the Health & Safety of all people who visit, worship in or work at St Boniface to be very important. To this end Health & Safety matters continue to be discussed and reviewed at every PCC meeting. We continue to assess the risks associated with our activities and seek to minimise them. We also undertake regular inspections of the church premises and the churchyard to ensure no obvious hazards are present. Moreover, our Fabric Committee ensures all areas are well maintained. When an accident or incident is reported, we investigate the causes to identify learnings and we discuss the outcomes at the PCC. We ensure learnings are extracted and are incorporated into our working practises.

In September we had an inspection visit from Cheshire Fire & Rescue to refresh their Site-Specific Risk Information (SSRI) for the church building which is done every 3 years. The SSRI records information about the use of the church building, the layout, materials of construction, hazards & risks, operational and environmental considerations to assist them in attending an emergency at St Boniface.

As an accredited Silver-tier EcoChurch, the Environment continues to feature in all our work and activities. At the start of 2023, 500 Eco Churches in the UK had achieved a Silver award. In just 18 months, this figure has doubled - including St Boniface.

We are keen to see the community at St Boniface deepening their engagement with, and caring for creation, as well as embedding it in our church life. As in previous years it is wonderful to see our young people involved in environmental activities. We also saw of rewilded areas of the churchyard becoming established, though some areas struggled during the hot dry period of the Summer. Many thanks to Kay and Jasper Carson, Amber Middlemiss and their willing band of volunteers for maintaining our wild areas.

An informal youth-oriented brunch service takes place on the third Sunday of the month

We continue to scope out our project to install solar panels on the roof of St Bonface. The installation will need to satisfy a number of technical requirements as well as being consistent with our heritage status.

Data Privacy

The PCC is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. The processing of personal data is governed by the General Data Protection Regulation (the "GDPR"). Our systems are GDPR compliant and our Data Privacy Notice is available at https://www.stbonifacebunbury.org/newprivacypolicy

Page 3

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 December 2025

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

The parish church of Bunbury is St Boniface which is situated between Vicarage Lane and Bowes Gate Lane in Bunbury. The daughter church, Calveley Chapel, is situated in Calveley. The parish itself is part of the Diocese of Chester within the Church of England. The correspondence address is The New Vicarage, Vicarage Lane, Bunbury, Tarporley CW6 9PE.

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury ("Bunbury PCC") is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2022) and is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission, number 1133106. It is governed in accordance with charity and ecclesiastical law.

PCC members who served from 1 January 2025 until the date this report was approved by the PCC are:

Incumbent: Tim Hayward Chair
Churchwardens: Sean Augustin-Wood* (until May 2025)
Elaine Crotty (from May 2025) also Vice Chair
Astrid Logan (from May 2025)
Elected Reps on the Deanery Synod: 2 vacancies
Elected PCC members: Gill Arnold
Pat Blackwood
Elaine Crotty Vice-Chair
David Cox
Anne James
Astrid Logan
John Mason** Secretary
Lucy Munro
Mike Ridley
Jeremy Shears Electoral Role Officer
Colin Stanyer
Yvonne Wood Treasurer (to 31 December 2025)
Other ex officio: Amber Middlemiss Licensed Pastoral Worker
Claire Wilson Licensed Assistant Minister
Co-opted Katie Everton***
Elsa Williams***

** Also an ex officio member by virtue of being a member of General Synod.

*** Co-opted initially in November 2024 and co-opted again in May 2025.

Page 4

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 December 2025

SAFEGUARDING

Overview

The PCC has complied with its duty to have due regard to the House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. The approach to our safeguarding is: "The care and protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults involved in Church activities is the responsibility of the whole Church. Everyone who participates in the life of the Church has a role to play in promoting a Safer Church for all".

Using this approach, St Boniface is committed to implementing the Church of England's Safeguarding Policy for children, young people, and adults, "Promoting a Safer Church", and to demonstrating its compliance with that policy. On Sunday 19 November, Rev Tim Hayward led the Safeguarding Sunday service as part of the National Safeguarding Sunday initiative to update the church on the work St Boniface is doing to ensure that those involved in the life of the church are kept safe.

The PCC considers safeguarding at all its meetings. There were no cases or attendance agreements being managed at the end of the reporting period.

There were three safeguarding concerns reported to the PSO during 2025, only one of which as referred to the Diocesan Safeguarding Team (DST). Our team of church officers and volunteers remain grateful for the invaluable and timely support and guidance we receive from the DST.

Parish Safeguarding Officer

Kay Carson is the appointed Parish Safeguarding Officer. The team of safeguarding advocates continue working alongside the PSO to provide feedback on the conduct of church activities and to be available to support vulnerable members of the congregation if they request it. Becky White is the safeguarding advocate for children and young people, Jen Yates is the safeguarding advocate for women, and Colin Stanyer is the safeguarding advocate for adults.

The Diocesan Safeguarding Dashboard as a continuous improvement tool

With the support of the PCC and the team of parish volunteers, the PSO has continued the work of implementing the best practice guidance provided by the Diocesan Safeguarding Dashboard.

Bunbury PCC has dedicated time to reflect on church culture and ways in which our church can be more inclusive, safe, and effective at sharing the love of Christ.

Our church activities are managed following the recruitment and people management advice provided by Diocese to the best of our ability. All church officers and volunteers who are eligible for a DBS check have valid certificates at the level consistent with their roles in the parish.

The PCC recognises and appreciates the special contribution that activity leaders have made to this years' safeguarding improvements: Pat Blackwood, Amber Middlemiss, Jen Yates and, especially, our Youth Worker, Beth Hayward.

The PCC is also very grateful for the support and hard work of every one of the many church volunteers who have supported the PSO as it continued its safeguarding journey throughout the year.

Training

A review of the safeguarding training status of all individuals involved in serving and working for the church has been completed and requests for updates in training, where needed, have been made by the Parish Safeguarding Officer.

Communication

All visual safeguarding communications on the church notice boards have been reviewed and updated. St Boniface's website also carries a copy of the PCC's safeguarding policy and contact details for organisations which offer support for victims and perpetrators of abuse, including the Diocese Safeguarding team.

Social Media

Bunbury PCC follows the Church of England's guidance on social media use for church activities in Section 4 of the Safer Environment and Activities document. Elaine Crotty, churchwarden and PCC member, and Beth Hayward, youth worker, are the only two people authorised to post on social media on behalf of St Boniface church.

ST BONIFACE 100 CLUB

As part of our fund-raising initiative to maintain the fabric of St. Boniface Church and assist its outreach in the community, members of the PCC came up with a number of suggestions. One of those was to form a "100 Club" for members of the congregation, the local community of Bunbury and surrounding area.

Page 5

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees

for the year ended 31 December 2025

Formed as a small society lottery and run by the PCC, the club has 100 tickets and membership involves buying a ticket for an annual subscription of £50. Each of the 100 tickets is placed in a monthly draw for 12 months. On the first Sunday of every month 3 tickets are drawn at random for 3 cash prizes of £100, £50 and £25 respectively. The winners (who must be over 16 and hold a UK bank account) are notified by email and prizes are paid directly into their bank accounts.

Our first year has been a great success. Thanks to the kind support of our community all 100 tickets were sold last year. Our first draw took place on 6th April 2025 and the twelfth will be on 1st March 2026. Over £3000 has been raised!

We will be running the club again this year starting at the beginning of April 2026 and we very much hope everyone will renew their membership subscription, so that we may continue to raise funds for the upkeep of our beautiful St. Boniface Church - the jewel in Bunbury's crown.

YOUTHWORK

Forest Church

Forest Church continues to be a really strong and steady part of church life. We meet whatever the weather, and it's become a place where people can slow down, reflect, and connect with God through nature. This year it's also grown beyond just us. I've been leading Forest Church at Bunbury School each half term, and started running online training for the Diocese, helping other churches set up their own Forest Church.

Living Out Loud

Our youth band continues to grow, both in numbers and confidence. Rehearsals are full of energy, and it's been great to welcome younger members. One of the best things this year has been seeing older young people naturally supporting and encouraging the younger ones, building

a real sense of team and ownership.

The "do-it-yourself" nativity has become another popular service for young families .

Drama for brunch

Drama for Brunch is open to all ages, with young people aged from 5-18 getting involved. There really is a role and a place for everyone. Young people are starting to come up with their own ideas and shape what we do, making it a great stepping stone into wider involvement and leadership.

Pantomime

This year's pantomime, Cinderella, was another huge success with full audiences. It continues to be a great way of connecting with the wider community and building confidence and teamwork in the young people involved.

Youth Club & Young Leaders

Youth Club is still a really popular and welcoming space. This year we introduced a Young Leaders group with clearer roles and regular meet-ups, helping older young people grow in confidence, responsibility, and faith. Our DofE students have been brilliant in supporting younger members.

Nooma Group (16+)

We've started a Nooma discussion group for older youth, bringing together young people of faith and no faith. It's a space to talk honestly about beliefs and how they shape our lives. It has grown from 4 to 10, with thoughtful and open conversations.

A big focus this year has been helping young people move from just attending to getting involved and taking on leadership in their own way. It's been encouraging to see stronger links between school, church, and the Diocese, with what we're doing starting to reach further.

ALIVE

Our group of volunteers has swelled to ten, which means we can keep going into the future. Sadly we have lost some of our older members but we are welcoming many new people all the time. Christmas lunch was attended by over thirty people and after our meal we enjoyed singing Christmas carols

It was decided not to launch another 'warm hub' this winter as the fuel allowance for pensioners had been reinstated.

We enjoyed an outing to Trentham Gardens on a very hot day and had a stroll around the gardens and a ride on the big wheel for some after lunch. A small group has visited Bridgemere garden centre on the GoToo bus, returning with bulging bags.

The Easy exercise class held in Bunbury Medical centre has proved so popular that we now have two classes every Thursday. By popular request we are in the process of launching line dancing classes.

The penpal scheme with the new year six pupils at Bunbury Aldersley school has continued this year. Once again the pupils entertained us to Christmas lunch followed by singing of carols and making Christmas trees out of wrapping paper!

Page 6

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees

for the year ended 31 December 2025

CALVELEY

Having been established as a Chapel over 180 years ago, by the tenant of the now demolished Calveley Hall, Calveley Chapel today provides an opportunity for traditional worship in a beautiful unique rural and historic setting as well as providing an excellent venue throughout the year for baptisms and smaller, more intimate, weddings.

It was wonderful to host 4 baptisms in the spring with the chapel full for each occasion.

Our regular service takes place on the second Sunday of each month at 11.30am with a small faithful congregation and then additional celebratory services with wider community support at Easter, Harvest and Christmas.

It was decided at the end of the year to focus our efforts in 2026 on having 4 special services and resting the monthly services due to smaller attendance. The chapel will still remain available for christenings, weddings and funerals.

Bellringers' Report

The church continues to have an active and enthusiastic band of ringers. We now have 16 bell ringers across a wide range of ages and ringing experience.

We ring for Sunday services whenever we have enough available, which in the past year has again been for over 95% of services. We practice every Thursday evening and provided bells for weddings/blessings, and occasionally for funerals when requested. We also participate in national ringing events and in 2025 rang our bells for the VE and VJ Day 80 pupils Anniversaries. We continue to train new ringers, many of whom have subsequently achieved the skill level to be elected as members of the Chester Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers.

The ALIVE Group act as pen pals with Bunbury School pupils

The ringers are active in other tower-related areas. They are responsible for looking after the church clock and manage the raising of the flag on the tower's flagpole on St George's Day and Remembrance Sunday and other national flag days as requested/approved by the incumbent.

During 2025 the ringers also held a further successful fundraising Quiz towards the required refurbishment of the clockface.

Bells & Ropes > All in good state of repair > Serviced annually by Taylors Bell Engineers Ringers > 16 Regular Ringers (an increase of 1 since 2024) > Includes 2 current learners Governance > The appointed Tower Captain is David Riley > The safe condition of the bells is ensured by an annual service and "MOT check" by a professional bell engineering company. > As preferred by the ringers there are no other officially appointed officers. Instead, in the absence of the Tower Captain a number of other ringers have been trained and have the experience to enable service ringing and practices to be run in the absence of the Tower Captain, and to take any unscheduled actions required to maintain the bells, clock, flag and any social activities. > The tower is in full compliance with all Church of England Safeguarding requirements. > An annual tower AGM is held to review activities, finances, ringing activities and any other matters the ringers wish to raise. Rev Tim also attends. Practices > Regular Thursday practices (7.30pm to 9.00pm) Service Ringing > Regular Sunday service ringing Other Ringing > Weddings - 2024: rang for 12 weddings/blessings - 2025: significant drop-off in weddings at the church so rang for just 5 weddings/blessings - 2026: 6 weddings booked in requesting bells to date > National Ringing - Participated in the national ringing to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of both VE Day and VJ Day. Both events included an outdoor service of remembrance attended by members of the local branch of the Royal British Legion along with Bunbury Scouts and Guides and others from the village.

Page 7

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Report of the Trustees

for the year ended 31 December 2025

Other Events > Annual ringers dinner held January 2026 > New Year's Eve ringing 31 Dec 2025 > Open Tower Day event being considered for 2026

Church Clock > The bellringers are responsible for the day to day maintenance (and arranging repair if needed) of the church clock. This includes periodic adjustments to keep it in time, and for adjusting it for the hour changes twice a year.

To help ensure its reliability the clock is serviced annually by The Cumbria Clock Company, who are specialist turret clock engineers.

Bellringers organised a Quiz Night in the church in December 2025 that raised a further c£2,250 towards the refurbishment of the church clock face. This together with the similar Quiz in 2024 means there was now sufficient funds raised by the generosity of the village to enable the required refurbishing work to be undertaken. This will be in the Spring/Summer of 2026 when there is a better chance of the good weather needed for the clock engineers to work on the clock face, which they access off the tower roof using ropes.

Flags > In addition to the normal flag days of St George's Day (St George's flag) and Remembrance Day (Union flag) the bellringers obtained the special official flags for VE Day 80 and VJ Day 80 so they could be flown off the tower roof for these respective anniversaries. The Bunbury Scouts and Guides, along with Rev Mike Rogers, assisted with the raising of these flags.

CHURCH FABRIC

The Church Fabric Committee oversees the improvements and repairs to the church buildings and facilities. It reports and makes recommendations to the PCC.

The new free-standing oak servery unit was delivered in February 25 and is located outside the current small kitchen. It contains an electrical warming cabinet. The plans for the new enlarged kitchen and second WC have been completed and requests for quotations from the trade issued. A second faculty will be required from the diocese.

The repair work outlined in the September 23 quinquennial report for St Boniface has been completed except for repair to the lantern over the memorial gateway. There was a delay as no commercial business would take on the task. We are grateful that Barry Menzies has volunteered to take down the light and repairs are in hand.

The PCC has accepted a feasibility report advising that installation of solar panels on the South aisle nave roof would be viable. Work has commenced to create detailed drawings required to obtain Diocese of Chester and Cheshire East approval. The panels will not be visible from the ground or any neighbouring properties. Progress is delayed whilst the load-bearing capacity of the roof is determined.

During the December 2024 Storm Darragh the west end pinnacle on the aisle roof came down. Repairs were completed funded by storm damage insurance.

Permission to repair the failing coloured-glass windows at Calveley Chapel is awaiting sign-off from the Diocesan Chancellor, as is permission to relocate the Churton memorial plaque in the Nave.

The high-level and external flood lamp sodium light bulbs have been replaced by energy efficient LED bulbs.

Refurbishment of the external tower clock face is planned in the late spring following Diocesan approval, and funded by quizzes organised by the bell ringers; our thanks go to them.

In July 2025 a section of the East wall fell over into the neighbour's garden (Birchfield). This part of the ancient churchyard is the responsibility of Cheshire East Council. The final survey was completed in February 26 and a plan for clearing and rebuilding the wall is expected soon. We are grateful for our neighbour's patience.

Approved by order of the board of trustees on ...6 May 2026 and signed on its behalf by:

T Hayward

................................................................................... T Hayward - Trustee

Page 8

Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury (the Trust) for the year ended 31 December 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

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

Independent examiner's statement

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

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

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

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

Mrs Sally Scott

Date: ......7 May 2026.......................................

Page 9

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
fund
Notes
£
£
£
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
FROM
Donations and legacies
77,399
12,327
-
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
41,055
-
-
Other trading activities
2
31,569
2,747
-
Investment income
3
7,413
6,729
-
Total
157,436
21,803
-
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
8,728
414
-
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
146,817
29,336
-
Other
4,353
402
-
Total
159,898
30,152
-
Net gains/(losses) on investments
(4,522)
(10,143)
(2,948)
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
(6,984)
(18,492)
(2,948)
Transfers between funds
11
19,585
(19,585)
-
Net movement in funds
12,601
(38,077)
(2,948)
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
138,245
308,062
73,738
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED
FORWARD
150,846
269,985
70,790
2025
Total
funds
£
89,726
41,055
34,316
14,142
179,239
9,142
176,153
4,755
190,050
(17,613)
(28,424)
-
(28,424)
520,045
491,621
2024
Total
funds
£
127,803
26,580
24,291
12,664
191,338
2,731
192,655
9,879
205,265
11,497
(2,430)
-
(2,430)
522,475
520,045

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 10

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Balance Sheet 31 December 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
fund
Notes
£
£
£
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
7
23,526
-
-
Investments
8
108,591
243,571
70,790
132,117
243,571
70,790
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
9
9,591
598
-
Cash at bank
15,168
25,816
-
24,759
26,414
-
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
10
(6,030)
-
-
NET CURRENT ASSETS
18,729
26,414
-
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
150,846
269,985
70,790
NET ASSETS
150,846
269,985
70,790
FUNDS
11
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Endowment funds
TOTAL FUNDS
2025
Total
funds
£
23,526
422,952
446,478
10,189
40,984
51,173
(6,030)
45,143
491,621
491,621
150,846
269,985
70,790
491,621
2024
Total
funds
£
21,614
440,565
462,179
24,397
47,165
71,562
(13,696)
57,866
520,045
520,045
138,245
308,062
73,738
520,045

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on ...6 May 2026................................. and were signed on its behalf by:

T Hayward

............................................. T Hayward - Trustee

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 11

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 December 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the FRS 102 SORP.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets, which are shown at market value. The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible under law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members. Also excluded are transactions where the PCC acts solely as a collection agent for another party (such as collections where it has been determined that all or a specified proportion will be passed on to a named charity).

Incoming resources

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognized when received. Tax refunds are recognized when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when received rather than when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Exceptionally, grants may be recognised earlier when they are deemed certain and relate to expenditure that occured in the financial period. Dividends are accounted for when receivable, and interest is accounted for when received. All other income is recognized when it is receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for gross.

Resources expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. All other expenditure is generally recognized when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts in accordance with s.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 1993. Calveley Chapel is treated as having zero book value reflecting its perceived market value as affected by the restrictive covenants associated with it.

Movable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church’s inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time).

Equipment used within the church premises or for church purposes outside of the building is depreciated on a straight-line basis over four years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less (£500 prior to 2011) are written off when the asset is acquired, although at their discretion the Trustees may reduce this threshold to £500 in the case of items that are clearly of longterm value and capital in nature.

Investments are valued at market value at 31 December.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

Funds

Endowment funds are funds, the capital of which must be maintained; only income arising from investment of the endowment may be used either as restricted or unrestricted funds depending upon the purpose for which the endowment was established.

Restricted funds represent (a) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and (b) donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not usually invest separately each fund. Where there is no separate investment, interest is apportioned to individual funds on an average balance basis.

Unrestricted Funds are general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes. On occasions the PCC may designate part of the unrestricted funds for a particular purpose. Although these designated funds are thereby ear-marked for that purpose they still form a part of the unrestricted funds of the PCC and may still be used for PCC ordinary purposes.

continued...

Page 12

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

2. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES

3.

Fund-raising
Advertising
Lettings
INVESTMENT INCOME
Dividends and interest
Other investment income
Interest from cash on deposit
2025
£
26,929
5,347
2,040
34,316
2025
£
12,240
-
1,902
14,142
2024
£
16,647
5,706
1,938
24,291
2024
£
11,023
250
1,391
12,664

4. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2025 nor for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Trustees' expenses

There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 December 2025 nor for the year ended 31 December 2024.

5. STAFF COSTS

A part-time Administrator was employed during the reporting period. Some of her time was spent supporting the Vicar in his role as Rural Dean. A part-time youth worker was employed throughout the year.

PAYMENTS TO PCC MEMBERS

A small immaterial portion of the expenses paid to the incumbent may have related to services as Chair of the PCC. No other payments or trustee expenses were paid to any other PCC member, persons closely connected to them or related parties.

6. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
fund
£
£
£
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
114,226
13,577
-
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
26,580
-
-
Other trading activities
22,141
2,150
-
Investment income
9,441
3,223
-
Total
172,388
18,950
-
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
2,680
51
-
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
148,466
44,189
-
Other
9,580
299
-
Total
160,726
44,539
-
Total
funds
£
127,803
26,580
24,291
12,664
191,338
2,731
192,655
9,879
205,265

continued...

Page 13

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

6. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES - continued

7.

Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total Total
funds funds fund funds
£ £ £ £
Net gains on investments 3,063 6,784 1,650 11,497
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) 14,725 (18,805) 1,650 (2,430)
Transfers between funds 500 (500) - -
Net movement in funds 15,225 (19,305) 1,650 (2,430)
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward 123,020 327,367 72,088 522,475
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 138,245 308,062 73,738 520,045
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Fixtures
and
fittings
£
COST
At 1 January 2025 30,528
Additions 10,856
At 31 December 2025 41,384
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January 2025 8,914
Charge for year 8,944
At 31 December 2025 17,858
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2025 23,526
At 31 December 2024 21,614

8. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS

The fixed asset investments are generally invested in the CBF Investment Fund. There is one endowment fund held by Chester DBF on behalf of Bunbury PCC Funds.

Market value b/f 1
January
Disposals
Reclassifications
Revaluation
gain/(loss)
Market value at 31
December
Unrestrict
ed Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Designated
Funds
£
114,113
-
(1,000)
(4,522)
108,591
Restricted
Funds
£
252,714
-
1,000
(10,143)
243,571
Endowment
Funds
£
73,738
-
(2,948)
70,790
Total Funds
2025
£
440,565
-
(17,613)
-
2024
£
479,058
(49,992)
-
11,499
440,565

continued...

Page 14

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

2025
£
Trade debtors
2,136
Other debtors
1,246
Tax
6,807
10,189
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
2025
£
Trade creditors
-
Taxation and social security
-
Other creditors
6,030
6,030
MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
Transfers
movement
between
At 1.1.25
in funds
funds
£
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
201
(6,131)
32,619
Church fabric (Fete)
61,345
(984)
(9,456)
Calveley (designated)
73,245
(406)
(2,000)
Curate support (legacy)
1,644
(66)
(1,578)
Youth club (designated)
1,810
603
-
138,245
(6,984)
19,585
Restricted funds
Churchyard
10,596
(2,163)
-
Choir
3,693
220
-
Kitchen
1,471
-
(1,400)
Challinor
223,332
(9,179)
(18,185)
Bells
3,601
2,247
-
Organ
30,632
(801)
-
Youth worker
28,279
(8,112)
-
Alive
5,208
(704)
-
Bunbury community
1,250
-
-
308,062
(18,492)
(19,585)
Endowment funds
Endowment
73,738
(2,948)
-
TOTAL FUNDS
520,045
(28,424)
-
2024
£
103
11,282
13,012
24,397
2024
£
8,572
456
4,668
13,696
At
31.12.25
£
26,689
50,905
70,839
-
2,413
150,846
8,433
3,913
71
195,968
5,848
29,831
20,167
4,504
1,250
269,985
70,790
491,621

10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS

continued...

Page 15

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Gains and Movement
resources expended losses in funds
£ £ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 119,254 (125,385) - (6,131)
Church fabric (Fete) 29,583 (28,450) (2,117) (984)
Calveley (designated) 5,150 (3,269) (2,287) (406)
Curate support (legacy) - - (66) (66)
Youth club (designated)
3,449 (2,794) (52) 603
157,436 (159,898) (4,522) (6,984)
Restricted funds
Churchyard 936 (2,983) (116) (2,163)
Choir 357 (137) - 220
Challinor 3,573 (4,969) (7,783) (9,179)
Bells 2,793 (420) (126) 2,247
Organ 891 (553) (1,139) (801)
Youth worker
12,942 (20,250) (804) (8,112)
Alive 311 (840) (175) (704)
21,803 (30,152) (10,143) (18,492)
Endowment funds
Endowment - - (2,948) (2,948)
TOTAL FUNDS 179,239 (190,050) (17,613) (28,424)

continued...

Page 16

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Comparatives for movement in funds

Net
Transfers
movement
between
At 1.1.24
in funds
funds
£
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
2,720
231
(2,750)
Church fabric (Fete)
82,634
(21,289)
-
Ear-marked for charitable giving
1,469
(1,469)
-
Calveley (designated)
33,832
36,663
2,750
Curate support (legacy)
1,600
44
-
Youth club (designated)
765
545
500
123,020
14,725
500
Restricted funds
Churchyard
15,732
(9,460)
4,324
Choir
3,663
30
-
Kitchen
1,471
-
-
Challinor
228,559
(5,227)
-
Bells
2,466
1,135
-
Organ
29,637
995
-
Flowers
2,710
(2,710)
-
Church steps
4,324
-
(4,324)
Friday at Tillys
4,269
-
(4,269)
Youth worker
32,548
(4,269)
-
Alive
238
701
4,269
Bunbury community
1,250
-
-
Youth Club
500
-
(500)
327,367
(18,805)
(500)
Endowment funds
Endowment
72,088
1,650
-
TOTAL FUNDS
522,475
(2,430)
-
At
31.12.24
£
201
61,345
-
73,245
1,644
1,810
138,245
10,596
3,693
1,471
223,332
3,601
30,632
-
-
-
28,279
5,208
1,250
-
308,062
73,738
520,045

continued...

Page 17

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Gains and Gains and Movement
resources expended losses in funds
£ £ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 119,894 (119,663) - 231
Church fabric (Fete) 10,617 (33,435) 1,529 (21,289)
Ear-marked for charitable giving
- (1,469) - (1,469)
Calveley (designated) 38,081 (2,857) 1,439 36,663
Curate support (legacy) - - 44 44
Youth club (designated)
3,796 (3,302) 51 545
172,388 (160,726) 3,063 14,725
Restricted funds
Churchyard 563 (10,101) 78 (9,460)
Choir 300 (270) - 30
Challinor 893 (11,239) 5,119 (5,227)
Bells 1,941 (890) 84 1,135
Organ 231 (1) 765 995
Flowers
- (2,710) - (2,710)
Youth worker
13,099 (17,989) 621 (4,269)
Alive 1,923 (1,339) 117 701
18,950 (44,539) 6,784 (18,805)
Endowment funds
Endowment - - 1,650 1,650
TOTAL FUNDS 191,338 (205,265) 11,497 (2,430)

continued...

Page 18

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:

Net
Transfers
movement
between
At 1.1.24
in funds
funds
£
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
2,720
(5,900)
29,869
Church fabric (Fete)
82,634
(22,273)
(9,456)
Ear-marked for charitable giving
1,469
(1,469)
-
Calveley (designated)
33,832
36,257
750
Curate support (legacy)
1,600
(22)
(1,578)
Youth club (designated)
765
1,148
500
123,020
7,741
20,085
Restricted funds
Churchyard
15,732
(11,623)
4,324
Choir
3,663
250
-
Kitchen
1,471
-
(1,400)
Challinor
228,559
(14,406)
(18,185)
Bells
2,466
3,382
-
Organ
29,637
194
-
Flowers
2,710
(2,710)
-
Church steps
4,324
-
(4,324)
Friday at Tillys
4,269
-
(4,269)
Youth worker
32,548
(12,381)
-
Alive
238
(3)
4,269
Bunbury community
1,250
-
-
Youth Club
500
-
(500)
327,367
(37,297)
(20,085)
Endowment funds
Endowment
72,088
(1,298)
-
TOTAL FUNDS
522,475
(30,854)
-
At
31.12.25
£
26,689
50,905
-
70,839
-
2,413
150,846
8,433
3,913
71
195,968
5,848
29,831
-
-
-
20,167
4,504
1,250
-
269,985
70,790
491,621

continued...

Page 19

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 December 2025

11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Gains and Movement
resources expended losses in funds
£ £ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 239,148 (245,048) - (5,900)
Church fabric (Fete) 40,200 (61,885) (588) (22,273)
Ear-marked for charitable giving
- (1,469) - (1,469)
Calveley (designated) 43,231 (6,126) (848) 36,257
Curate support (legacy) - - (22) (22)
Youth club (designated)
7,245 (6,096) (1) 1,148
329,824 (320,624) (1,459) 7,741
Restricted funds
Churchyard 1,499 (13,084) (38) (11,623)
Choir 657 (407) - 250
Challinor 4,466 (16,208) (2,664) (14,406)
Bells 4,734 (1,310) (42) 3,382
Organ 1,122 (554) (374) 194
Flowers
- (2,710) - (2,710)
Youth worker
26,041 (38,239) (183) (12,381)
Alive 2,234 (2,179) (58) (3)
40,753 (74,691) (3,359) (37,297)
Endowment funds
Endowment - - (1,298) (1,298)
TOTAL FUNDS 370,577 (395,315) (6,116) (30,854)

The above disclosure for the 2024 comparative figures has been restated to disclose the correct closing balances of funds for the year for Challinor and Youth worker. This has not changed the balances per the balance sheet.

12. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

Beth Hayward, wife of Revd Tim Hayward receives a salary of £19,194 (2024: £17,761) in her role as youth worker.

Page 20

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities

for the year ended 31 December 2025

INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Donations and legacies
Gift aid and donations
Income tax recovered
Other planned giving
Collections
Grants
Donations
Legacies
Other trading activities
Fund-raising
Advertising
Lettings
Investment income
Dividends and interest
Other investment income
Interest from cash on deposit
Charitable activities
Parochial fees
Bellringer and organist fees
Other fees
Recharges
Other income
Total incoming resources
EXPENDITURE
Raising donations and legacies
Costs of generating voluntary
Charitable activities
Assistant staff costs
Salaries, honoraria and fees
Missionary charitable giving
Diocesan parish share
Incumbent working expenses
Vicarage costs
Church running costs
Church maintenance
Upkeep of services
Upkeep of churchyard
Carried forward
2025
£
47,361
11,440
10,954
8,236
5,055
5,480
1,200
89,726
26,929
5,347
2,040
34,316
12,240
-
1,902
14,142
12,029
2,930
5,284
1,133
19,679
41,055
179,239
9,142
34,893
2,575
7,528
58,204
-
11,753
12,363
4,457
1,810
-
133,583
2024
£
47,864
17,293
560
11,629
4,875
15,565
30,017
127,803
16,647
5,706
1,938
24,291
11,023
250
1,391
12,664
13,201
5,640
1,365
966
5,408
26,580
191,338
2,731
30,365
4,325
9,237
56,508
2,203
5,233
18,662
13,430
5,918
4,178
150,059

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 21

The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Bunbury

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities

for the year ended 31 December 2025
Charitable activities
Brought forward
Magazine expenditure
Education and training
Structural repairs
Fixtures and fittings
Other
Other expenditure
Total resources expended
Net expenditure before gains and losses
Realised recognised gains and losses
Revaluation gains/(losses) on fixed asset investments
Net expenditure
2025
£
133,583
6,742
-
26,883
8,945
176,153
4,755
190,050
(10,811)
(17,613)
(28,424)
2024
£
150,059
7,227
3,471
25,152
6,746
192,655
9,879
205,265
(13,927)
11,497
(2,430)

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 22