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← PCC of Birstall Parish Church in the Diocese of Leeds

2024-12-31-accounts

St Peter’s Church, Birstall

APCM Booklet 2025

Prepared by Rev’d Jess Davis

Parish of St Peter’s Birstall Annual Report 2024 for the Annual Meetings 2025 to be held in the church on Sunday 18[th] May 2025 at 10.15am

Agendas:

Annual Meeting of Parishioners

  1. Apologies

  2. Minutes of the last meeting (28[th] April 2024)

  3. Minutes of the special meeting (22[nd] September 2024)

  4. Election of Churchwardens

  5. Closing of Meeting

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

  1. Apologies

  2. Minutes of the last meeting (28[th] April 2024)

  3. To receive and consider the Electoral Roll

  4. To receive a report on the proceedings of the PCC

  5. To receive a report on the financial affairs of the parish including:

  6. a. the independently examined statement of accounts of the PCC for the year ending 31st December 2024.

  7. b. to appoint an independent examiner;

  8. c. to receive a report on the financial affairs of the Governors of St Peter's School.

  9. To receive a report on the fabric, goods and ornaments of the church.

  10. To receive a report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod.

  11. To receive a report on Health and Safety.

  12. To receive a report on Safeguarding

  13. To receive an APCM Report 2024

  14. To receive any other reports of parochial or church interest.

  15. To appoint one representative to the Deanery Synod

  16. To elect up to three members of the laity to the PCC to serve for three years and one member of the laity to the PCC to serve for two years.

  17. Any other business.

  18. Closing Prayers.

PCC Membership

Ex-officio:

  1. Rev’d Jess Davis (Priest-in-Charge)

  2. Wendy Harper (Reader / LLM)

  3. Philip Walls (Reader / LLM)

  4. Churchwarden (to be elected 2025)

  5. Churchwarden (to be elected 2025)

Deanery Synod (Retire 2026)

  1. Raymond Gallagher

  2. Kathleen O’Shea

  3. Vacant

PCC (Retire 2025)

  1. Alison Sowden

  2. Janice Mitchell

  3. Solly Wilson

PCC (Retire 2026)

  1. Alan Graves

  2. Chris Taylor

  3. Jonathan Keer

PCC (Retire 2027)

  1. Martin Price

  2. Rosie Price

  3. Vacant

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Parishioners held on 28[th] April,2024

Present: Thirty-six attended the meeting and they were:

Rev’d Jess Davis, Denise Gosling, Stephen Lister, Kathleen O’Shea, Rebecca Lau, Margaret Bell, Jean & John Frankland, Chris & Kathryn Taylor,, Alan & Margaret Graves, David & Pat Chapman, Ian & Jayne Cromack, David & Alison Sowden, Carol Lynch, Martin & Rosie Price, Joanna Earnshaw, Andy & Linda Rhodes ,Philip Walls, Jack Leeson, David Barker, Trish Wynn, Pauling Cowan, Stuart Spencer, Eva Lockett, Judith Hartley, Solly Wilson, Elaine Jackson , Sue Charlton & Wendy Harper. The meeting commenced at 12 noon and Rev’d Jess welcomed all to the meeting.

  1. Apologies for absence were received from Andy Kennedy, Karen Robinson, Ann Walls, Miles & Sue Lawson, Susan Ghosh, Emma Nicholson, Sarah and Hilary Whitfield.

  2. Minutes of the meeting held on 23[rd] April 2023 were read and passed. Proposed by Wendy Harper and seconded Raymond Gallagher. Unanimous

  3. Election of Churchwarden

Rev’d Jess informed the meeting that Miles Lawson was not standing. There was only one candidate who was Andy Rhodes who was proposed by Chris Taylor and seconded by Stephen Lister. There being no further candidates Andy was elected.

Minutes of the Special Parishioners Meeting held at St Peter’s Church in the Parish of Birstall on Sunday 22[nd] September 2024 at 10am

Present: Twenty-nine parishioners attended the meeting.

Rev’d Jess Davis, Denise Gosling, Margaret Bell, Sue Charlton, John & Jean Frankland, Anne & Philip Walls, Alan & Margaret Graves, Stuart Spencer, Judith Hartley, Eva Lockett, Joanna Earnshaw, Trish Wynne, Elaine Jackson, Solly Wilson, Pat Caunt, Raymond & Dorothy Gallagher, Chris & Katharine Taylor, Miles Lawson, Jane Cromack, Rebecca Lou, Hilary and Sarah Whitfield, Emma Nicholson & David Gill.

Jess welcomed everyone to the meeting. She informed the meeting that Andy Rhodes on the advice of the diocese had stepped down as Churchwarden. Andy is in training to be a licensed lay minister. Jess offered a tremendous thank you for all the work Andy has done whilst being Churchwarden.

1. Election of Churchwarden .

Denise Gosling was proposed by Raymond Gallagher and seconded by John Frankland. There being no further candidates Denise Gosling was elected.

There being no further business the meeting was closed.

Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 28[th] April 2024

Present: Thirty-Six members attended the meeting (listed on the meeting of parishioners 28[th] April 2024)

  1. Apologies for absence (listed on the meeting of parishioners 28[th] April 2024)

  2. Minutes of the meeting held on 23[rd] April 2023 were read and passed. Proposed Joanna Earnshaw and seconded by Dorothy Gallagher Unanimous

3. To receive and consider the Electoral Roll.

Dorothy Gallagher’s report was included with the agenda. There are 97 names on the Electoral Roll. It was proposed by Margaret Bell and seconded by David Barker to accept the report. Unanimous

Jess offered a vote of thanks to Dorothy who would be retiring this year as Electoral Roll Officer.

4. To receive a report on the proceedings of the PCC.

Denise Gosling report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to Denise. It was proposed by Andy Rhodes and seconded by pat Chapman to accept the report. Unanimous.

  1. To receive a report on the financial affairs of the parish.

  2. a) The Annual Accounts and Treasurers Reports for year ending 31[st] December 2023 were included with the agenda. It was proposed by David Chapman and seconded by Andy Rhodes to accept the reports. Unanimous. Jess commented we need to raise more money from our giving and fund raising.

  3. b) To appoint an Independent Examiner. A vote of thanks was offered to Stephen Lister. It was proposed by John Frankland and seconded by Jack Leeson to appoint Stephen as Independent Examiner. Unanimous.

  4. c) To receive a report on the financial affairs of the Governors of St. Peter’s School. Alison Sowden’s Report was included with the agenda. It was proposed by Elaine Jackson and seconded by Wendy Harper to accept the report. Unanimous. A vote of thanks was offered by Jess to Alison and the governors. Judith Hartley asked if a tour of the old school could be organised before it was demolished. Jess would speak to the school.

6. To receive a report on the fabric and ornaments of the church

Miles Lawson and Andy Rhodes report was circulated with the agenda. It was proposed by Jack Leeson and seconded by Raymond Gallagher to accept the report. Unanimous

Andy commented the biggest job in the near future is the repair to the boundary wall between the old graveyard and Kirklees property. Jess offered a huge thank you to Miles and Andy.

7. To receive a report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod

Kathleen O’Shea’s report was included with the agenda. It was proposed by Jack Leeson and seconded by Dorothy Gallagher to accept the report. Unanimous. Jess reported David Barker had resigned from the Deanery Synod. Kathleen O’Shea and Raymond Gallagher are still our representatives at the Deanery Synod.

8. Management of health and Safety

Pat Caunt’s report was included with the agenda. It was proposed by John Frankland and seconded by Elaine Jackson to accept the report. Unanimous

Jess commented the church had a lot of policies but someone using them may not know the procedures,

9. To receive an APCM report 2023 from Rev’d Jess which was circulated with the agenda.

It was proposed by Dorothy Gallagher and seconded by John Frankland to accept the report. Unanimous. Denise Gosling asked if after 3 years Jess would become vicar of St Peters as promised by the bishop. Jess replied eventually yes but the plan for her to be accepted as priest in charge at St Saviours is yet to be finalised. When she is settled as priest in charge at St Saviour’s then she will become vicar of St Peter’s and St Saviour’s.

  1. To receive any other reports of parochial or church interest.

  2. a) Tower Captain . Miles’s report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to Miles and his team.

  3. b) Safeguarding . Janice Mitchell’s report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to Janice

  4. c) Children’s Ministry. Sue Lawson’s report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to all volunteers at Junior Church.

  5. d) Church Wood. Andy Rhodes report was included with the agenda. He commented the church was working with Liam Plumber of Woodlands Trust to restore the wood back to ancient woodland. Jess offered a vote of thanks to Andy and his team.

  6. e) Verger’s Report. Solly Wilson’s report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to Solly and asked how many spaces are left in the graveyard. Solly informed the meeting there are approximately 20 grave spaces and 16 spaces for ashes.

  7. f) St Peters Playtime. The Playtime Team report was included with the agenda. Jess thanked the team, and commented playtime had a good standing in the community.

  8. g) Audio/Visual. Chris Taylor and Martin price report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to all the people who helps with Audio/Visual, but we need more helper especially at the 9am service. Full training will be given.

  9. h) Eco Church. Martin and Rosie Price report was included with the agenda. Jess offered a vote of thanks to Martin and Rosie

and commented we had been awarded a Bronze Eco Church in December 2023, and we are working towards a silver award.

It was proposed by Wendy Harper and seconded by David Barker to accept the reports 10(1) to 10(10). Unanimous

  1. To appoint one representative to the Deanery Synod There were no candidates, but Jess informed the meeting that if anyone wanted to be a Deanery Rep they could be appointed by the PCC

  2. To elect up to three members of the laity to the PCC to

serve for three years. Martin Price, Rosie Price and David Barker were nominated and they each had a proposer and seconded who were members of the elector roll. They were elected to serve for three years.

13. Any other business

Raymond Gallagher offered a vote of thanks to Jess for doing an excellent job.

There being no further business the meeting was closed.

To receive and consider the Electoral Roll.

A verbal report to be given at the meeting.

To receive a report on the proceedings of the PCC

We have had six meetings this year. There are fourteen members on the PCC, and they have achieved 78% attendance

Denise Gosling PCC Secretary

Treasurer’s Report for the year ended 31 December 2024

Firstly, I would like to give my sincere thanks to all those who donate towards the running of the church, and those who give of their time, skills and gifts to support us and to all who attend our church.

The Financial Accounts for the year ended December 2024 are detailed in Appendix 1. These have been independently examined by Stephen Lister and agreed by members of the PCC at a meeting on 11[th] March 2025. May I thank Stephen for his time.

Page 1 gives brief details of the Receipts and Payments for 2024. Our overall Receipts of £73,966 for 2024 are down considerably compared to 2023, whilst the Expenses totalling £79,723 have risen slightly. The result is that our expenses have exceeded income by £5,757. Without a reduction in our Parish share as referred to below, our annual loss for the year would have been £15,379.

Our main source of income is regular voluntary contributions received from church members. The income we receive enables us to carry out our Mission, to Worship and to maintain our church building and grounds. We are a registered charity and like any other charity, we rely heavily upon donations. I claim tax back on donations made from taxpayers and on other small donations, which is represented by the ‘Gift Aid Recovered’ figure. If you do pay tax and have not yet completed a Gift Aid Declaration, please let me or any other member of the ministry team know. This will enable me to claim tax back at the rate of 25p in the £1 without any additional cost to you. Similarly, I need to know if, at any point you will no longer be eligible to pay tax.

There are numerous ways available for you to give, if you wish, including by standing order, by the envelope scheme, by contactless/chip and pin, payroll giving, cash on the offertory plate, the QR Code, through PayPal, or via the donate button on our web page.

Our other main sources of income are itemised on Page 2:

a) Fundraising and community events of various kinds.

b) Statutory fees due to the church for performing weddings, funerals and burials.

c) Investment income which relates mainly to dividends received on Endowment Funds. A breakdown of these investments and income received is given on Page 4.

d) Grants were obtained totalling £2,430.

You will see under Payments that our biggest expense is the Parish Share, which represents our share of the total cost of clergy within our diocese including their stipend, housing costs, national insurance and pension contributions. This figure is £10,000 less that in 2023, as a direct result of our now sharing Reverend Jess with St Saviours. Nevertheless, our share was still £37,837.

Our other main expenses are itemised on Page 3: a) Church running costs totalling £19,750. A full breakdown is given. b) £5,400 represents donations, as listed below, which we have made in support of other registered charities as part of our Christian Mission. c) our utility bills i.e. gas, electric and water.

d) Major expenses being graveyard wall repairs and boiler repairs.

As you will see, the income and expenses are subdivided into Unrestricted, Restricted and Endowment Funds. Unrestricted Funds means money which is available to fund the ongoing running of the church, some of which is put aside (Designated) by the PCC towards future expected expenses. Restricted funds are made up of money which donors have specified is only to be used for a specific purpose, for example the Tower/ Bells Fund. The other type are Endowments where funds have been given in the past usually by Will and the donors have specified that their donation should be retained and only the income is to be used for a named purpose. A full breakdown of these funds is given on Page 4.

Below is a schedule of the charities to whom the Church has made mission donations of £400 each, on your behalf.

A Rocha UK Batley Food Bank Bible Society (The) Kirkwood Hospice Martin House Hospice Doctors without Borders (MFS) North Kirklees Women’s Save The Children St Georges Crypt Refuge Tear Fund Woodlands Trust Zephaniah Trust

In addition, we donated £200 to the Gaza Humanitarian Appeal which included funds donated from the congregation.

If you have any queries, please let me know.

F. Alan Graves, Treasurer to the PCC

To receive a report on the financial affairs of the Governors of St Peter’s School.

The governors of your school continue to work hard to ensure that our children, staff and all who visit our school are safe and have a comfortable place to study and work, as well as learning to care for each other, the communities where they live and the wider world as they learn about God and begin to understand Christian values, feeling cared for and accepted, with a staff team who really do go the extra mile for all children. Work has continued the building of the new school, which is fully DFE funded, hopefully the building will be complete by October. We will keep you informed. There will be events planned for when the time comes to say goodbye to our current school as we know many people at church helped raise vital funds to build and equip it almost 57yrs ago as well as contributing to governors for ongoing projects.

Presently there is no money being spent on the current building, so there have been no new expenses for the governing body, hopefully with the new build there will be nothing for a few years.

We are still repaying steadily around £4,000 to school which has helped with the governors 10%, we continue to be thankful for the small donations we receive from individual church members.

Finally, have you ever considered becoming a governor, please ask one of us what it entails (Jan, Alison, Jess, Karen)

Thank you A Sowden

To receive a report on the fabric, goods, and ornaments of the Church

I have checked and identified all items in the Church’s Inventory and can confirm that all were present in the church and signed off accordingly.

Churchwarden’s Report:

The services to the twin boilers, clock, entry alarm, and fire extinguishers have been carried out.

On the 1[st] November 2024 Innova Electrical upgraded the electric box in the vestry. Spot lights were fitted to highlight the Frampton Mural.6ft LED strip lights were fitted in the kitchen and choir stalls.

An outside security light was fitted at the corner of the south and east outside wall.

The Quinquennial Inspection was completed by our architect and urgent works were highlighted.

The report brought extra challenges with it.

Roof- Chancel north and south slope- architect budget is £2000-£9,999 The Lychgate desperately needs repair work and for Health and Safety reasons we have had to close it. We need £6500 to repair the Lychgate and the PCC are trying to raise the funds.

The down pipes are free flowing, and the soak ways are regularly cleaned. I became churchwarden on 22[nd] September 2024, and I am extremely grateful for all the help that I have received.

Denise Gosling Churchwarden

To receive a report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod.

The Deanery Synod has met twice this year. In June we were at St. Micheal and All Angels. Thornhill. The speaker was Keith White whose subject was ‘Christians in Politics’. Mr. White spoke eloquently on promoting Christian values in our political decisions whatever party we support.

In October, at St. John’s Carlinghow, the Archdeacon talked about his visit to Taize. The Taize style of worship has become world famous and at Taize large numbers of, mostly younger, people gather to explore their faith in discussion groups and worship.

At each meeting we receive reports from General Synod and Diocesan Synod. Issues relating to the deanery are discussed and officers elected. One of our representatives died during this year. David Barker was a loyal member of the Deanery Synod and will be sadly missed.

Kathleen O’Shea

To receive a report on Health and Safety.

This Report covers the period March 2024 to March 2025.

1.VISIT BY TONY DOWLING OF AVIVA INSURANCE ON 19 JULY 2024

1.1 Background

I joined Alan Graves (AG) (PCC Treasurer) for an Inspection of the Church Building and grounds, by Tony Dowling (TD) of Aviva Insurance. The following matters were discussed:

1.2 Church Yard

AG explained that the church yard is used by the public, especially dog walkers; and that Kirklees MDC have responsibility for grass cutting, tree trimming and keeping pathways clear and safe for use. However, due to tightening budgets, the level of care has reduced over the last few years. Recent work includes trimming of tree branches and replacing paving slabs near the North entrance.

TD noted that:

(a) The Church roof has an anti-vandal protection system. AG explained this was installed following the theft of lead, which left the roof badly damaged. CCTV surveillance and roof alarms were also installed, which, if activated, alert the Police.

(b) Security alarms are provided on the three external doors ie the North Porch, South Porch and the Vestry Door. In addition, there are padlocked gates at the North Porch, South Porch and the stairway to the cellar. (c) Rubbish bins are kept within the locked gate of the North Porch, so access by mischief makers is prevented.

1.3 Burial Ground

AG explained that the PCC is responsible for care and maintenance of the Burial Ground whilst it is still in use, but once full, responsibility will pass to Kirklees MDC. To manage the work load, a distinction has been made between the old (Victorian) part; and the new (in use) part. In the former, only main pathways are kept clear, hence the area is untidy and overgrown, whilst in the latter, the grass is mown and the area kept tidy. Checks are also made here for loose head stones; and if one is found, it is deliberately toppled to lie flat on the grave.

An Arboriculturist carried out a survey of the trees in 2016 and again in 2021. In each case, the immediate recommendations were acted upon.

1.4 Church Woods

AG pointed out the public right of way which runs through the Burial Ground and into Church Woods, which is a five-acre site, in frequent use, especially by dog walkers. Andy Rhodes, PCC Member, takes responsibility for the Woods; and periodically organises a “working party”; to carry out maintenance work. TD said he did not need to go into the Woods.

1.5 The Church Building

1.5.1 Fellowship Area

TD was shown the Fellowship Area, including the Kitchen, Toilet, Tower Room and Children’s Room. We explained that the kitchen is used to prepare snacks such as sandwiches and salads. The gas rings may be used to heat up soup; and if hot food is required, eg pies and pastries, these are prepared off site, then brought to the kitchen to be heated up in the oven.

We informed TD that the Church Member who takes responsibility for the kitchen is professionally trained; with Qualifications in Catering. Other

Church Members who help to prepare and serve food are trained to Level 2 of the Food Safety and Hygiene Vocational Qualification. (Certificates on display in the Kitchen.) We also informed him that after the last two inspections from Kirklees Environmental Health, we were awarded the highest rating of 5 (“Very Good”) under the Food Standards Agency Inspection Scheme.

We pointed out that cleaning products used are of a domestic standard, with the exception of the dish washer fluid. This is a commercial product, supplied in 5 litre carboys, stored beneath the dish washer. When required for use, the top is removed; and a vacuum line attached, which draws fluid directly into the machine.

The only adverse comment TD made was that the microwave should be plugged directly into a wall socket, rather than into an extension lead. I explained the difficulty in installing wall sockets, due to the stone walls and the fact the Church is a Grade II Listed building. I said the risk of an electrical incident is judged negligible, because the extension lead is in a protected position; and the plug is never removed, so there is no wear or tear. TD agreed the risk is very low, but he was drawing it to our attention as a matter of “good practice”.

TD was shown the main gas inlet pipe and the shut off valve, which are in a cupboard near the kitchen sink. He used a thermal imaging camera and explained that any gas leakage is shown as a colour change on the image. A change of up to 20 “units” is allowed before there is any concern. Our image showed a change of only 5 “units”.

TD had no further comment about the Fellowship Area, Toilet, Tower Room or Children’s Room.

1.5.2 Church Tower

TD said he didn’t need to go into the Tower.

1.5.3 The Central Heating Boilers

One boiler is in a cupboard, accessed from the North Porch. TD’s thermal imaging camera showed the colour change as being well below the 20 ‘units’. However, he was concerned about items being stored in the cupboard, as these created a fire risk.

The second boiler is in the same location, but on the other side of the partition wall, so is accessed from the back of the North Aisle of the Church. This also passed the test with the thermal imaging camera, but again drew negative comments; because of items being stored in the cupboard.

ACTION: As soon as TD finished his visit, wooden brooms and cardboard boxes were removed from the Boiler Cupboards. Jess Davis (Priest-inCharge), who was on site, was informed; and she said she would discuss it with Andy Rhodes, PCC Member (who was Church Warden at that time). She said a sign would be made for each cupboard, stating that items should not be stored inside.

1.5.4 Vestry

TD asked to see where we stored valuable items such as cash and silverware. He was satisfied when he saw these were kept in locked safes in the Vestry.

1.5.5 Cellar

AG collected the keys from the organ cupboard, then unlocked (a) the padlock on the gate at the top of the outdoor stairway, which leads to the Cellar; and (b) the Cellar door. TD wanted to see where the main electrical supply enters the building, so he could check the installation with his thermal imaging camera. Again, the screen image showed a colour change well within acceptable limits. TD acknowledged the cellar houses the air blower for the organ; and that nothing else is stored in there.

He advised a hand rail should be provided on the cellar stairway. I said the risk arising from a slip, trip or fall is judged very low, since this area is accessed only very infrequently. TD agreed that this is not a priority matter.

1.6 Documentation

TD examined the Health and Safety Folder which contained our: Summary of Essential Health and Safety Information Checklist for a Health and Safety Inspection Policy on Safe Use of Ladders Fire Risk Assessment

Risk Assessment for Safety in the Kitchen Document for Managing Asbestos Intruder Policy and

Risk Assessment for Safety during Worship and Other Public Events We also had these documents available for him to see: Electrical Engineer’s Inspection Report (2024) Annual Check of the Roof Security System (2024) Arboricultural Report (2021) and

The latest Insurance Report.

TD advised that the Church was under-insured. He recommended revaluation every 5 years.

ACTION: To arrange for a valuation of the Church, then reconsider the insurance cover.

1.7 Conclusion: TD had no further comments. A written Report was sent, which I have not seen.

2. QUINQUENNIAL INSPECTION BY ULRIKE KNOX OF KNOX MCCONNELL ARCHITECTS IN OCTOBER 2024

2.1 Background

The Church of England Diocese imposes a requirement for the fabric of the Church to be inspected by a professionally qualified person, once every five years, to ensure the PCC is aware of what is needed to keep the building in good repair. An inspection was due; and this was carried out in October 2024.

I was not involved in the Inspection; and although I briefly saw the written Report, I was not asked to look at it in detail. As I understand it, the work recommended for immediate and urgent attention involves a cost in excess of £6K. This is disturbing because finances are not robust enough to support this expenditure.

I have since asked to see a copy of the Quinquennial Report, so I could include some comments in this Report.

2.2 Items for immediate attention

2.2.1 Chancel Roof, both North and South slopes (a) Ridge needs repointing and (b) lead cover flashings on abutments need replacing.’ 2.2.2 On the North side of the building: downpipes, gullies and soakaways must be maintained so rainwater is carried away. (A blocked fall pipe is believed to have led to damaged stonework on the north elevation of the North Inner Aisle.)

2.2.3 The Lychgate: (a) roof needs repair due to decaying timber, (b) stonework needs repairing and repointing due to cracks, flaking and open joints and (c) gates need to be rehung with non-ferrous fixings.

2.3 Items for urgent attention, within 12 months

2.3.1 Roofs: (a) North Porch Roof – the flashing and the ridge need repointing and (b) South Porch Roof – vegetation must be removed from the gutters and the joints repointed.

2.3.2 Exterior Walls: Chancel, North Aisle, North side – (a) open joints around the East Window need repointing and (b) sill and mullion bases of the West Window needs attention due to flaking stonework.

2.3.3 Interior Walls: Work required In the Nave (a) South Wall – open joint in centre arch needs attention; and repointing needed around the clerestory windows and (b) South and North Walls – salt damage to stonework needs to be addressed.

2.3.4 Tower: (a) To prevent water ingress, the leak at the base of the flagpole must be attended to, and the arrangement for rainwater drainage must be maintained (b) Repair the wire mesh used to keep birds out (c) Repair the damaged belfry louvres (d) Holes in the floor of the belfry must be repaired (e) A qualified structural engineer should check the stability of the corner pinnacles and (f) The timbers in the ceiling of the Tower Room should be checked for decay.

2.3.5 Pedestrian access to the Church from Westgate: (a) At the East Access, stability of the wall coping stones needs assessing and (b) At the North Porch Access, neither the handrail nor the ramp meets current standards for public access.

3. ELECTRICAL INSPECTION BY J W ELECTRICAL ON 11 MARCH 2024.

An Inspection was carried out by J. Woffenden of J W Electrical, Woolley Grange, Barnsley. He identified “danger” and required immediate action be taken, because there was no residual circuit protection; and no switch to isolate lighting circuits to The Lady Chapel, South Chancel, North Chancel, Roof Light, the Reredos and the Clock Timer. He advised the consumer unit be replaced with one which incorporates these protections. This work was promptly carried out.

This Report was produced by Pat Caunt, Church Member with responsibility for Health and Safety; and is dated Monday 24 March 2025.

To receive a report on Safeguarding

Safeguarding continues to be a priority and a strong focus for the Church of England and St Peter’s Church. We want to make sure that we have a safe, caring environment for everyone who attends by ensuring that we have strong procedures in place to protect everyone.

We have adopted the Diocesan Safeguarding Policy which is reviewed annually by the PCC. The Policy and contact details of the Diocesan Safeguarding Team are on display on the noticeboard in the fellowship area. We have strong links with our Diocesan Safeguarding Officers who are always available for help and advice.

Safeguarding training is compulsory for many roles in church including Junior Church, Healing Ministry, PCC members and anyone in leadership roles. Leeds Diocese provides these training courses online. Although these courses are compulsory for some people, they are very useful for anyone to take, and they offer very helpful advice. If anyone wants further information on any of these courses, please see me or Jess.

Not everyone has access to the Internet or feels confident to do this training online, Jess arranged face to face training in April, which was done jointly with St Saviour’s and was very successful and well attended.

DBS checks and Confidential Self Disclosures are up to date. I have recently renewed my Pathway Leadership qualification, which was very interesting and informative.

It is up to each and every one of us to play our part in keeping our church a safe place for all, by adhering to the guidance, and being vigilant.

If you have any concerns, please contact either myself or Jess, or in an emergency or if we are not available, use the contact details for the Leeds Diocesan Team on the notice board in the fellowship area.

Report prepared by Jan Mitchell Parish Safeguarding Officer May 2025

To receive an APCM report 2024

“Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6.10-12

This past year has felt like a bit of a spiritual battle. Alongside so many things to be thankful for, we have faced a barrage of hardships. Many of our number have been facing extreme challenges with health and with personal circumstances. We have lost some dear ones. The deaths of David Barker, June Williams and Christine Ainsworth have hit us particularly hard as a congregation alongside those of you who have personally lost loved ones. It often feels like we are living under a cloud of grief and carrying many burdens that are weighing heavily upon us. And yet, God is still good, he is still present, and he walks with us through the dark valleys.

As we go through these dark times, it has been encouraging to see the ways that the church has pressed into prayer, worship, and care for one another and our wider community. We now have a regular fortnightly prayer meeting on a Monday evening called Ignite, Welcome Space on a Wednesday lunchtime continues to support many in our congregation and wider community with a warm welcome, food, and friendship. The pastoral team continue to contact and visit people who need a bit of extra support and take communion to those who can’t make it to our services in person.

2024 in Review

2024 was mainly about me preparing to take on a second church and learning the best way to juggle them; I think that we’re slowly getting there as we make a few adjustments along the way.

Here are just a few of the good things that happened in 2024:

  1. A media team has been established who began working on improving our media presence in the community and our church communications (including a new logo).

  2. Welcome Space was established and has been going from strength to strength.

  3. At fortnightly prayer meeting, Ignite, has been established and is well attended.

  4. We managed to run a successful Alpha course.

  5. Andy Rhodes has come on board as a LLM (Licenced Lay Minister) in training.

  6. Despite me being shared, seasonal services were all able to go ahead with a minimal amount of disruption to the usual pattern and

worship on Sundays and Wednesdays has been able to continue with minimal disruption.

  1. A curate has been secured, Vicky Angel, to start in June 2025 and will be living in St Saviour’s Vicarage.

  2. A six-monthly joint PCC meeting has been established with St Saviour’s to discuss issues and plans affecting both churches.

Plans for 2025

2025 is all about getting organised and sorting out some of our processes so that things run a bit more smoothly. These are a few of the things that I am hoping to achieve.

  1. To look at “in-house” communications between team members to ensure that we are all on the same page and that processes happen smoothly.

  2. To introduce a new way of sharing communion to ensure that it is fully inclusive of those who are unable to share the common cup.

  3. To re-establish Messy Church.

  4. To establish an Open the Book team going into St Peter’s School

  5. To run a Bereavement Journey Course by the end of the year.

  6. To identify sources of funding and to commence repair work on the church as detailed in the quinquennial report.

  7. To establish a regular pattern of accessible safeguarding training to ensure that this continues to be a high priority.

  8. To continue to work towards our Net Zero goals.

Overall, our focus needs to be on mission. Whilst we appear to be in a

relatively healthy position compared to some of the other churches in the area, we are at risk of steep decline in the next few years if we do not prioritise mission and numerical growth.

To enable us to do this, it takes all of us playing our part. We need to share and support our events, we need to be bold in inviting others along, and we need to be welcoming to new people and visitors, chatting to them and helping them to belong.

We can do this if we all work together.

Rev’d Jess Davis (Priest-in-Charge)

To receive any other reports of parochial or church interest.

a) Tower Captains Report:

planned with the Churchwarden and Revd. Jess overseeing the work reporting back to the PCC.

b) Eco Church Report

Through the A Rocha UK Eco Church award structure we have been guided and encouraged to think about and become more aware of the importance of caring for God’s creation. https://ecochurch.arocha.org.uk/ Achievements since the Eco Church group was formed:-

We will now continue to work together as a church towards the next award. The A Rocha scheme provides a road map towards a more sustainable future as a church. It involves everything from our heating to our land management to our detergent use to our banking. Plans for 2025

There’s lots of work to do! Eco Church is a whole congregation effort. If you would like to know more and get involved speak to Martin & Rosie Price, St Peter’s Environmental officers, or Rev. Jess.

c) Media Team Report

The media team was set up in early 2024

The aim is to enhance our internal and external communications for the improvement of St Peters.

Pooling our talents to collaboratively invigorate and streamline information

Achievements since the Media Team was formed:

There’s lots of work to do! If you would like to know more and get involved speak to Chris, Emma, Alex, Martin, Rosie or Rev. Jess.

d) Church Woods Report

Very little has been done in church wood over last year. Progress seems to have gone ahead a pace with controlling the Himalayan Balsom, the bike track which was demolished last year has just about returned to the natural state. We have let the brambles grow as they are a natural deterrent to unwanted activity such as building BMX tracks.

Andy Rhodes

e) Junior Church Report

This year has seen us grow if only in small steps. We have a core attendance of regulars which are frequently added to with five other children who attend on a less regular basis. Our age ranges very from 3 to 13 years who are all catered for with the aid of our helpers.

This year we have studied many of the biblical topics which in church have been based. If not in that current week, then a short while later. The lessons follow a format of a Bible reading about the topic with all of the children taking it in turns to read. This is followed by a discussion about the topic (relating it to our lives). This can be quite wide ranging and very

interesting to hear the children’s views. Afterwards we have a mixture of arts and crafts linked to the topic or a game or a quiz that related to it. After which we allow time for prayers relating to the topic and any other prayers that children have thought of on their own.

During the course of the year, Junior Church has supported the Summer and Christmas fairs by running the games stall and providing craft activities.

Penny and Rachel

f) Ignite Report

The St Peter’s Ignite Prayer meeting has been running since September 2024. It meets every other Monday evening at 7pm. The focus of the group is to pray for our church family as a whole, our services & activities. We pray together to ask God to help us build unity among our church family & to give us guidance as we seek to grow as a church & welcome new people in. We share our prayers with each other, and in doing so learn from each other & support each other.

We usually start our sessions with some informal worship and ask the Holy Spirit to fill us and guide us during our time together. We sometimes pray together as a whole group, if we are not many in number, but the flexibility is there for everyone to pray in a way that works for them – be it alone or in a small group.

The numbers attending the meeting vary between 6 and 13. Anyone is most welcome to join us.

J PETER'S Registered Charity No. 1133854 THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS ANNUAL STATEMENT OF THE FINANCIAL AFFAIRS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2024 PREPARED BY: F. ALAN GRAVES TREASURER TO THE P.C.C EXAMINED BY: STEPHEN LISTER INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2024 RECEIPTS ANO PAYMENTS ACCOUNT Note Unrestricted Restricted Endowment TOTAL Fund* Funds FurMI# 2024 TOTAL 2023 RECEIPTS Voluntary Receipls: Regular Giving Misc. collecb.ons al ServKes a} All olher giwng Gift Recovered Grants Recer¥ed 42,825 2,138 1,917 10,414 42,825 2,138 2.097 10.414 2,430 59,904 43,744 2,024 3,613 9,856 495 59,732 b) 2.430 2.610 57,294 Fundraising Activities.. Inveslment Income Statutory Fees Income from lettings: Sundrbes TOTAL RECEIPTS d> 5,790 742 4.716 5.7 3,056 4,716 7,488 2,823 7,468 270 372 78,153 39 2,275 410 69,042 410 73.966 2.649 2,275 PAYMENTS Costs of Fund rasing ActM"ties: h) Church Acbvibes.. Mission GiwnglCh)nab'ons DN)cesan parish Share Clergy & Staffing CA)sts Church Expenses: Mission & evangelism costs j) Church Running Exp8nses k} Church ub.lity bills Major Capital Expenses: Other Expenses - tree felling TOTAL PAYMENTS S35 S35 1,505 5,4fJ) 37,837 5,4(X) 37.837 356 5,081 47,815 415 389 19,475 7,767 6,174 45 275 434 19,7SO 7,767 6,174 1.470 79,723 167 14,497 7,548 2,499 1,470 1.7 77,933 79,527 Excess of Receipts over Payments Transfers bett￿en funds 18.891) 2,275 16.616 20.871 14.255 859 2,275 2,275 15.7571 11,374) 859 12.199 13.058 15.7S71 33,070 27.313 11,3741 Cash at Bank as at 1 January 2024 Cash at Bank as at 31 December 2024 33,070 STATEMENT OF ASSETS Assets Unrestrlcted Restrlcted Endowment TOTAL Fun(ts Funds Funds 2024 TOTAL 2023 Cash Funds Bank current account CBF De[￿$1¢ Fund 4,379 14.250 18.629 8.684 13,063" 14.250 27.313 18,820 14.250 33.070 8.684 Investment Assets Diocese- Chancel Fund Depx)srt C of E Investrnent Fund share5 93 83,679 83,772 93 91,495 91,588 93 88,447 88,540 7.816 7.816 TOTAL ASSETS - $99 Fund Analy$l$ Cash Fund5 as above Inveslment Assets as above 18,629 8.684 7.816 16.500 27,313 83,772 91.588 83,772 118,￿1 33,070 88.540 121.610 18.629 . Note:_ Bank balance as at 3111212024 = £12,797 add funts awarted of £1.210 ￿sS outstanding cheques to be p￿sented of £944 - £13.063 Pa9e I

BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS FURTHER ANALYSIS OF RECEIPTS Endawm•rt TOTAL Fund• 2024 TOTAL 2023 FundB Funth RECEIPTS al Collectlons at S•rvle•s: Cash received Sunthy cc41gXions 1,424 278 2.138 278 2,138 2.024 bl All oth•r Gmnglvofuntary R•c•Spts: Sundry Donations- Gift ￿￿ed Sundry Donat￿S- Not GIA C>Jnats"ons to T¢Mr FuThJ St Patrick's Church HSBC- donab Ql'sastef Emergency Ecdesiasb"cal Insu￿¢ 255 1,627 1,627 1(K) 375 130 130 1.917 2,097 3.613 cl Grnl# R•c•lv•d: W(MILands Trust Btsw D&vd4¥Thnt FLmd Listed Flaces ol Wofshp 1,470 1,470 495 495 2.430 2,430 dl Fund Rl#kng Acllvltl•s: Sjmmer Féte Summer Fair SFKmsorsh¥>s Christmas Fair Aftemcojn c￿arn Teas Spor￿ed haw dye Brass BaThJ conwt Swing Band Murder Mystery Play Group Tea & coffee Pele's Prcxluc PA)ok sales Greèting card salès 1.362 405 1.431 372 522 1,362 405 1,431 372 1.670 1.529 1.223 478 311 33 33 123 7.488 5.7 5.7 al Inv•stm•nt Incom•: Ints)me on CBF Dewsit Ino)me cm CBF Investments 742 742 2,314 3,056 $45 2.278 2.823 39 2,275 2,275 742 Sundrles: Cheque not pre5enled Remnd on br¢￿barkI SSE g(KMknII paymènt Miscd1￿ÉCrt 32 1fK) 40 372 10 410 10 410 Pa9e 2

BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS FURTHER ANALYSIS OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS - NOTES Unrestricted Restricted Endowment TOTAL Funds Funds Funds 2024 OTAL 2023 PAYMENTS NOTE h) Costs of Fund ralslng acllvltle8: Summer Fete Christsnas Craft Fair Brass Band concert Murder Mystery Artem￿￿ Tea% Miscelaneous 415 415 80 76 650 373 40 20 1.043 535 535 i) Mlsslon Glvlng and Donatlons: Tithe Payments lo Charities Disaster Emèrgency Appèals 5,2 200 5.400 4.706 375 5.081 200 5.400 j) Mlsslon & Evangellsm costs: Flyers and bO0￿ets Yorkshire Ass. of change ringers Yorkshire Hisloric Churches Trust Churches Together in Birslall Alpha Course Krtchen Equikynent 219 10 40 219 10 40 10 40 20 120 120 45 434 45 45 389 167 kl Church Runnlng Expenses: Church Building running expenses Costs of ServKes Office Expenses 17,06S 1.809 601 19,475 17.065 2.084 601 19.7SO 10.358 2.916 1,223 14.497 275 27S l) Major Capltal Expenses: Alarm system replacernent Graveyard wall repairs Healing maintenance and ￿paff 9(N) 4740 1.434 6.174 4740 1.434 6.174 1,539 2,499 ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS OF PAYMENTS: Church Building Running Expenses (see k) at￿). Building Insurance Organ repairslServ￿e FI￿ Extinguisher serv Grass cutting Kttchen and bOi￿r seThice Archilecls Fees- quiwuenial report Electrical report and repairs Telephon8linl8mel Cbock Servicing three year contract Cleaner cnsts and malerials Electronic cabling Defibrillator pad replacements Alarm system seNcing Miscelaneous 5909 358 222 3162 296 1560 3061 277 5749 167 288 3167 450 25 254 811 274 87 84 124 17065 258 10358 Paje 3

BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS FUND ANALYSIS R•f•rnne• No. ol 2024 2024 Shar•s Valuatlons Dl¥ldÈnd&l Interest 2023 aluatlons Endownxnt Investment h•ld by the DkceM: ChancA Fabric Fund 301698&￿1 Choir Fund 301698frCKJ1 Church Cotlages Furhj 3017016-CK11 Curate Fund 3016984-CQ1 SLmday Sd￿4 Piizes 301701X)1 834 19284 523 18,853 3.029 40.396 7.415 1787 328 110 41.320 69 2.CMJ3 73.829 93 73.922 72.179 93 72.272 ChancA Fabric- Dèwsbt 3017011-LX11 EndowThnt In￿sI￿nI Fwmls h•ld by the PCC: Curacy FuThJ 64(KKJ2￿3s LorNJboitcxm BeqL￿31 64CK(J2￿ls Total of Endowment Funds 128 2.893 5.736 80.￿1 187 2275 83.T12 R•sblct•d Inv•stm•nt Funds h•ld by th• PCC: tar ￿n&n Fund 64(XK)2(X)4S Bitstal SthrKAs BuikliNJ Furl" 641Km)2￿2s 62 276 1,434 6.382 7.816 39 1,401 6.239 7.640 39 Restrlcted Cash Funds h•ld by th• PCC: Communsty Fund DIsa￿antage￿ fanlies at scl "tchen RenovatK)n Fund R&orderitWMaintenance FLThI Sunday SCI￿￿ Prize Fund Toww R(KrfnlBdls FuThJ 4,035 40 2,057 3,115 40 2.057 662 1.182 1.CK12 7.789 Total of Restrlcted Funds 16. 15.429 Unrestrlcted Deslgnat8d Cash Funds by th• PCC: tar. knnen. carafe & organ refurtx"shment Fund Audio Visual Fund Energy ReseThe Furtt Environment￿ Fund ower Festival FUNI Graveyard Fund Parish Trainiro FuThY Sl Peier's Pkybme Furml Tithè Furk1 11.9)01 1801 11.9391 2,215 2,215 189 11.625 1.940 6.070 1.940 1.363 18,391 6.8 25.281 12,319 6.310 18.629 G•n•ral Fund held by th• PCC: Total of Unrestricted Funds Total Assets: Endovm)enl Funds Restricled Funds Deswa1e(Vunresirk￿ FuThJs 83.T72 16.9 18.629 118.9)1 2.275 39 549 2.863 80.￿1 15.429 25.281 121.611 Not•s: 1 . Divid￿dS on the Birstsll Sclth>)fs 8LMlthrvJ Fund a￿ pabj dwedy to Ihe SLthl 2 Bas￿ on thè thsi)g ptic ol Ihe sharès hèk1 in Ihè CBF Churd) ol England Invèstmènt Fu￿1 incomè unils the price per share as at 31 December 2024 was 2,31227p and al 1 JaMAry 2024 was 2,260.53p P¥Jè 4

BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS MOVEMENT OF FUNDS HELD UNDER THE CONTROL OF THE P.C.C Balance Incomel Expensesl Balance 01101124 Donations Transfers 31112124 MOVEMENT ON RESTRICTED FUNDS HELD BY THE P.C.C Church Wood Movement 1470 1470 Communlty Fund Mov8menl 3,115 990 70 4,035 Dlsadvantaged Famllles at St Peter's School Mov8menl 40 Kltchen Renovallon Fund Movement 2,057 2,057 Re-orderlng and Malntenance Fund Movemenl Sunday School Prize Fund Movemenl 867 69 274 662 Tower Room and Bells Fund Movement 1,002 7.789 180 2,709 1,182 8.684 1,814 MOVEMENT ON DESIGNATED FUNDS HELD BY THE P.C.C Altar Linen. Carafes & Organ Refurbishment Fund Movement (1,9391 39 (1.900) Audlo Vlsual Fund Movement 195 275 (80) Energy Reserve Fund Movement 2.5(M) Environmental Fund Movement 2,215 2.215 Flower Festival Fund Movement 189 189 Graveyard Fund Movement 11,625 2,346 7,9)1 6,070 Parish Training Fund Movement 1,940 St Peters Playtime Fund Movement Tithe Fund Movement 1,363 18,391 4,524 7,104 887 12.319 13.176 MOVEMENT ON GENERAL FUND- GENERAL CHURCH INCOME ANO EXPENSES Mov8menl 6,889 65,477 66,056 6,310 Page 5

BIRSTALL PARISH CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF LEEDS Notss lo the Accounts: These Finan(A Ststennts pwred ¢)n behaN of aTrJ ajieed by Ihe PCC. are in acur(lance the Church AccoJnb"ng Regulab)ns 2(K6. as al￿￿￿ by Ihe Charth5 Act 2011. tho'RKeipts and Payments, basts and are in xccKdance wrth tr'Retum ol P￿Sh Fir￿￿.. direded by the donor. R8slTthJ FuThJs c•pl31 * lo be hekl for the pU￿0$e ywhKh rt was gvan unks¥ that purpw no kwr extsts in ¥&thiL case PCC ￿ dir&a the nKrty * to be us&J. al Inc£rn frc)) fvr#J ratsng a5 detsknj d) to PA?)￿nts is gross will¥)ul c) Fees whth ha been r8caveAI SFeafL on behall ofthe verger. organrt PIA oFernlor, grave dwer. dl Funds raiswj thr￿jgh cofaons on behall ofolher Chariti8S KI p•J to those d￿ritIeS have teen exclwhj. tr exampb? the Rwal Brilish Legkm. SignEd ai- F. Alan Graves Treasurer. &'rslal Patsh CIMKth ol Sl Per P*Je 6

CHARttY COMMISSION Independent examinerfs report on the accounts Sertion A Indepertrdent Examiner s Report 3111 D￿rnber 2024 Chaflty no (K •ny) 1133854 ttorty fft Trrf) year 31112r2024. Respon$iblllll•¥ and bas18 of report accwnts in XCOrdan￿ the rewiremetts oftt Charit￿ ￿ 2011 I report fft respoc of my examinabon d the Trust's ¥Aawnts carried oul under $8dN)n 145 ofthe 2011 A& arKI in caffyiTrJ out my examinatv)n, I r se(M 145(5Xb) of the Af of the Clwiti8s Art or ccrfKemir¥J ts ft)rm and c4)ntent of actwnts set (Krt in the CharitKrys (AC￿1[￿3 aThJ Rer¥xts) 2CX)8 Lthr than any requirement Ihat the a¢¢ounts w a and fairf view not a matter with tr examinatKxi to vknK*t attention Shou￿ te drawn in this report in 9th March 2025 Styn•d: •ny)- IER Oct 2018

Add 12. Wwbeck Ro1 &'fStai | Vff17 Section B Disclosure Onty ajmpbete rfthe ne8(ts to h￿hlv￿ht malenal matters Ot cAy)wn (see CC32. examinaton of charty acrAunts: threcons and Glve hara Ixlef dots118 f any Item8 that th• •xamln•r wl•h•B to dlsclo¥•. IER Oct 2018