OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator.

2022-12-31-accounts

The Parish Church of St. George, Stockport.

REPORT and ACCOUNTS of the

Parochial Church Council

presented to the

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

23rd April 2023

Annual Report for 2022

Administrative Information

The Parish of Stockport St George is located on Buxton Road, Heaviley, and the daughter church of St Gabriel is located at Clover Avenue, Adswood. The parish is part of the Diocese of Chester within the Church of England.

PCC members who served during 2022, with future retirement dates in brackets after each name, are:

Vicar: Revd Canon Elaine Chegwin Hall Chair
Associate Priest Revd Dr Jenny McKay from October 2022
(Minister in secular employment)
Assistant Curate Revd Dr Janine Arnott to May 2022
Reader Representative: Mrs Rita Waters
Wardens: Dr Andrew Regan
Mrs Hazel Jenkins
Deanery Synod Mr David Foulkes
Mr John Sutcliffe
Mr Peter Hall
Mr Ian Roberts
Elected members: Mr Tommy Bowden (2025)
Mrs Sue Burt (2025)
Mrs Lois Kelly (2025)PCC Secretary
Mr Philip Warner (2025)
Mrs Penny Bisby (2024)
Mrs Janet Neilson (2024)
Mrs Morag Ranson (2024)
Mrs Louise Clark (2023)
Mrs Sue Cordingley (2023)
Deputy Churchwardens
Mr John Hardy _(_2023)
Mr Will Hesson (2024)
Co-opted members Mr Peter Smith
Mr James Hibbert Safeguarding officer

Independent Examiner: Mr Paul Clancy

2

Structure, governance and management

The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a charity, registered with the Charity Commission, number 1134170.

This report covers the activities of the two churches and of St George’s Church Stockport Preservation Trust. The Trust was constituted under a trust deed dated 1st August 1990. While legally a separate charity, the Trust is regarded by the Diocesan Authorities as a connected charity, consequently its transactions and dealings are included in the accounts of the PCC.

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All members of the two churches are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and to stand for election to the PCC.

Objectives and activities

The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. This fulfils our public benefit requirement.

Committees

The PCC operates through a number of committees and project groups, which meet between meetings of the PCC.

The project groups in 2022 were for the 125 anniversary celebrations; the Platinum Jubilee celebration; the Christmas Tree Festival and the Grapevine editorial group.

Standing Committee

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

The Preservation Trust

The objectives of the Preservation Trust include the restoration and repair of the fabric and contents of St George’s church and buildings. The Trustees may also finance other work connected with the voluntary aided school, youth work in the parish, or as agreed by the trustees.

The full PCC met 6 times during 2022 with an average level of attendance of 67%.

3

Achievements and performance

Lois Kelly (PCC Secretary)

Church attendance

The Electoral Roll total for St. George, Stockport PCC was 188 at the end of 2022.

The average weekly attendance, at church, for St. George’s was:

Choral Evensong 27.6
Early Communion 13.8
Parish Communion 78.2
Praise & Play 26.8
Wednesday Communion 15.1
Wednesday MP 6.8

Our online profile (number of views) in 2022 is shown below.

----- Start of picture text -----
400
350
300
250
200 Morning Prayer
Parish Communion
150
100
50
0
107 109 111 113 115 117 119 121 123 125 127 129 131 133 135 137 139 141 143 145
----- End of picture text -----

4

Baptism Assistants Team

We have had a busy year with 2 adults and 34 children (including 4 sets of twins!) being baptised.

We are a group of 11 volunteers who support the clergy and the baptism families during the service.

It is a very rewarding ministry and we have found members of the congregation who were present at a baptism, ask to come back to St George’s for the baptism of their own child because they had such a warm welcome.

Bell Ringers

It has been a relief to have our first full year of ringing without any Covid restrictions. Sunday service ringing and practices have been maintained with very few occasions when cancellation has been necessary owing to lack of numbers. A good standard of ringing as been maintained, and it has been encouraging to learn and ring some additional methods that are new to us. Chris Hopper’s move to rural Staffordshire has sadly depleted the band; his commitment and regular attendance was much appreciated over a significant number of years.

Very importantly, we rang the bells on all the appropriate designated occasions at the time of the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II and the accession of HM King Charles III. Details of the ringing and those taking part has been recorded in our tower log.

There will be another occasion for special ringing at the time of King Charles’s coronation in May, and the necessary arrangements will be made for this.

It was good to be contacted in October by someone wishing to learn to ring, and Andrew Tyler and I spent some time on tuition. Unfortunately, as is increasingly the case, the learner stopped coming after only a few weeks. We couldn’t help but consider that the weight and nature of our bells had something to do with this – they are difficult bells on which both to teach and learn. Nevertheless, I have been alerted to a possible enquiry from further interested parties that will be followed up.

As noted in my previous report, the lack of learners is a problem facing many bands. Covid hasn’t helped, but the future of regular ringing at St George’s could well be in danger in the not too distant future if more ringers, either those we are able to teach, or (as has been the case with a significant number of the present band) move into the area and join us!

5

I continue to be especially grateful for the commitment and support of all the band, for which they have my sincere thanks.

Andrew Mayes – Ringing Master

Choir

It is my firm belief that 2022 was one of the most profoundly important years in the life of St. George’s Church for many years.

We celebrated many great occasions during the 12 month period along with some of the most historic and sombre occasions in recent memory. Music, as has been the tradition at St. George’s, has played a key part in marking the majority of these significant occasions in the life of the Church.

The Choir’s year started in January 2022 with a successful Epiphany Carol Service.

125th Anniversary Service

In February 2022 the Church celebrated its 125th Anniversary in the presence of the Bishop of Chester, with the Choir performing Hubert Parry’s momentous anthem ‘I was glad’ to open the 125th Anniversary Service.

Spring Cathedral Tour 2022

On Saturday 5th March 2022 the choir visited Lichfield Cathedral to sing Choral Evensong for their Spring Tour. Another successful Cathedral Visit!

Platinum Jubilee

Sunday 5th June 2022 saw the whole country come together to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. The choir provided music for both the morning and evening Services that day as we marked such an important occasion in the life of the Monarch.

Elaine’s 25th Anniversary of Ordination

On Sunday 26th June 2022 we celebrated the 25th Anniversary of Elaine’s Ordination at the 10.15am Parish Communion. A good turnout from the choir

helped with the leading of the singing at the service as we sang some of Elaine’s favourite hymns.

Summer Cathedral Tour 2022

August saw the choir visit Sheffield Cathedral for their 2022 Summer Tour. The choir sang for three services over the weekend of Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th August, and received a very warm welcome from the Dean & Chapter of the Cathedral. We have since been invited back on a future date. The Dean was particularly complimentary about our choice of Communion Setting, the Canterbury Service by Steve Barker, a friend of the Director of Music.

The Death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

On Thursday 8th September the death of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was

6

announced, and the country entered a period of National Mourning. Between the Friday morning and Sunday Evening choral and organ music was provided for a total of 5 choral services in 3 days. It’s important to note here, for posterity, that the choir’s adaptability and professionalism was truly impressive, and the period of National Mourning will forever remain in my memory.

This period culminated on Sunday 18th September with the choir being invited to sing at the Civic Service, led by the Bishop of Stockport, at St. Mary’s in the Marketplace on the eve of the State Funeral, and in the presence of The Mayor and Deputy Lord Lieutenant.

Autumn 2022 Recruitment drive

(Junior Choir)

In late September/early October the choir set out on a recruitment drive to increase the number of under 16s in the choir. At that stage we had just one treble.

We contacted local schools and asked them to distribute a flyer with details of a revamped Junior Choir format, and the results were absolutely wonderful. We welcomed an initial intake of 9 new choristers to the choir in early October. By spring 2023 the group had increased to 14 children in the Junior Choir.

John Roff’s 50th Anniversary of Ordination & Welcoming Jenny McKay.

On Sunday 2nd October the choir provided music for the 10:15am Parish Communion Service to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Ordination of our former Vicar, John Roff. The new junior choristers sang with the choir for the first time.

On the evening of the 2nd of October 2022, the choir also sang at the service to welcome Rev Dr Jenny McKay to St. George’s. Members of Jenny’s former congregation remarked how wonderful the music was.

Choir Dinner 2022

On Saturday 15th October the choir held a black-tie dinner for members at The Joshua Bradley in Gee Cross. This used to be an annual event however it had fallen by the wayside over previous years. Thanks must go to Lauren Bird for her excellent organisation of the event. Speeches were made by The Vicar, The Director of Music, and the Hon. Secretary, Eliza Spencer.

RSCM Chester Area Festival 2022

On Saturday 29th October 2022 members of St. George’s Choir attended the Royal School of Church Music Chester Area Festival to sing alongside parish choirs from around the Diocese. It was a real joy to be able to take some of our new junior choristers to sing Choral Evensong at the Cathedral.

7

Toccata and Songs Concert

On Saturday 12th November Roger Briscoe and soloists put together a concert in Church to raise funds for the choir. The concert was extremely well attended, and a great evening of music was presented to the very appreciative audience.

Advent & Christmas 2022

As the festive season approached the choir prepared for a number of important services and events. In addition to the regular pattern of services the choir provided music for carol singing at the Christmas Tree Festival, The Advent Carol Service, the Christmas Carol Service at St. Gabriel’s, Adswood, and the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, in the presence of the Bishop of Stockport on Sunday 18th December 2022. Following the service, we had an official choir photograph taken with the Bishop, Clergy, Readers and the Church Wardens.

The choir term ended with the Junior Choir singing for the three Christingle Services, and the Adults singing for Christmas Eve Midnight Communion and Christmas Day Service.

Music Department

Thanks must go to my friend and colleague Roger Briscoe for his continued work in supporting me with the running and training of the choir. To have a musician with such a wealth of experience assisting me is a real blessing. Roger’s skill as an organist makes my job a lot easier, and his support is very much appreciated. In 2022 Roger celebrated 50 years since the start of his association with St. George’s, and I know he feels at home at St. George’s.

Hannah Whitehouse must also receive an honourable mention. Hannah’s support at Junior Choir rehearsals is very much appreciated. Her experience as a teacher is a huge bonus to the success of the Junior Choir, allowing me to focus on music with the children. I’m extremely grateful to her for her many hours of voluntary support.

Thanks also to David Cavendish for his occasional support in accompanying the choir for anthems throughout the year. David’s skill as an accompanist is clear to see, and I’m grateful to him for playing for the choir on Sunday mornings when required.

In conclusion, 2022 was a very rewarding year for St. George’s Choir. During the year the choir’s membership increased significantly with new members joining the Junior Choir and adults. At the end of 2022 the choir had 38 members on the books, with a number of guests occasionally joining us for bigger services from other local choirs.

James Hibbert Organist & Director of Music

8

Christmas Tree Festival

It was wonderful to return to a full throttle Christmas Tree Festival in 2022. We used lessons learned from our cautious re-opening in 2021 and enjoyed an altered layout with a more generous seating area for the café which also meant less furniture removal when we welcomed visiting choirs and the Karela dancing school.

We had 70 trees filling the church and as ever marvelled at the ingenuity and imagination of those putting up their trees. Trees were from local schools and businesses, church groups (both St. George's and other churches) and charities, art groups and choirs. The variety was fabulous.

A very conscious decision was made to keep the prices at pre-Covid levels as many families were struggling especially as Christmas approached and this proved a sensible decision as we had around 2000 adult visitors and 1000 children. Father Christmas managed to pop in again on the Saturday which delighted all the children, and we were delighted to welcome the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Stockport on the Friday.

Whilst the main aim is to welcome people into the church and ensure that they feel comfortable in the surroundings as well as providing literature in the form of the prayer trail, it was gratifying to finish with a profit of £8300. Much of this was due to the hard work of the raffle donors and ticket sellers and all the people who provided cakes and worked so hard in the café.

Our only request for 2023 is that we need more help on a day-by-day basis to ensure that everything is well staffed without depending on the same people all the time.

Hazel Jenkins

Garden Gnomes

The Gardening Team (aka: ‘Gnomes’) continue in our tasks of maintaining the gardens and the church surrounds in a tidy and attractive condition.

This last year, the weather has been significantly wetter than normal, particularly in autumn and winter, restricting our activities to a degree.

Our work on the North Avenue has continued to be affected by the building project on the former Vicarage site. The area opposite the North Porch, and the roadway, will require significant restoration work by the contractors as completion approaches.

Some of this area could perhaps be used as a wildflower/wilding area.

9

The trees in the South Avenue responded well to the hard pruning carried out in February. Similar work on the North Avenue trees can probably be deferred to autumn 2023, with some low-level work being carried out by the gardening team in the meantime.

As part of the church 125[th] Anniversary celebrations, a garden bed was laid out with a floral ‘125’ display on the area alongside the A6. We felt it provided a welcome splash of colour to the area and we intend to retain it with a variety of suitable plants throughout the coming year.

Planting and tending flowers and pruning shrubbery in the Garden of Remembrance and other flower beds keeps us busy. With regard to the former area, some thought should be given to repairing/replacing the paving, which is showing its age.

We would like to thank all those people who have contributed bulbs, plants or money, to help us maintain a colourful display around our church. Any monetary donations for the new '125' bed would be particularly welcome.

The more mundane, but essential, tasks of collecting up autumn leaves (in large quantities), weeding and removing moss from the pathways ( a 'Forth Bridge type of job), clearing drains and keeping the area free of litter are all part of our regular workload. There is always plenty to do on a Tuesday morning.

We are pleased that Cat Hayden has joined our team, and any other volunteers will also be made very welcome. We meet on Tuesday mornings from 9.30am onwards, up to about 12.30pm, but individual’s times are flexible. We also take a welcome break for tea/coffee and biscuits and time for a chat, at about 11am.

You don’t have to be an experienced gardener to contribute to our activities; just come along and share in the experience of making our church and its surroundings attractive and cared for to all who pass by.

Walter Stead – Novice Gnome

Grapevine

Last year, 2022, was an eventful time in the life of the church magazine, Grapevine. Firstly, it reverted from the full colour, digital version, produced in order to weather the pandemic, to a full colour, paper copy in February 2022. This was not only to the delight of many readers who had not got the technology to access the digital version, but also to our printer, Kevin. Due to the risk of cross infection from handling and delivering paper copy, he had lost a great many customers who had sought other means of communication.

10

Our print run has reduced as several subscribers wish to stay with the digital version, preferring a paperless copy, but also a significant saving for them in postal charges. Judith Swift, Olwen Smith and I hand deliver many paper copies locally, and Judith not only takes delivery of the magazines from the printer each month, but also deals with the posted copies.

Then, our esteemed editor, Richard Parr, announced that he would be retiring from the post and moving to Southwest Wales in the summer, to be near his family. Richard had been assistant editor, supporting Mark Lane, before finally agreeing to be editor, posts he held for eight years. He provided thought provoking editorials every month, nursed the magazine through the pandemic along with the technological skills of Andrew Regan and saw the magazine return to its former smart, full colour paper editions.

Following Richard ‘s departure in June 2022, we held our first face to face team meeting in July, in the Vestry, since February 2020. A cross section of 15 of the congregation was invited to attend, and many turned up! The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss the way forward without an editor, as no-one had volunteered. After a lot of soul searching, Andy Clark nobly stepped up to offer help to Andrew Regan in accepting contributions, provided with a word count, and deciding on layout. Andrew created an email address to which all contributions should now be sent, which will go to both Andrew and Andy – magazine@stgeorgestockport.org.uk

It was decided that the magazine would survive without a regular editor, but that a guest editor would be invited to contribute occasionally. Chris Dawson accepted that proposal and has already contributed. Another suggestion was that there should be something for younger readers and Nicola is providing occasional stories suitable for children.

Of the 24 pages, 12 are taken up with regular features. The Garden Gnomes submit an article every other month, Pamela Ferguson provides a recipe, or two, each month and the rest of the magazine is filled with contributions from our readership, for which we are always grateful, especially if accompanied by colourful photos. Special events such as the 125th Anniversary celebrations and the death of The Queen, Elizabeth II, have been covered extensively in the magazine in 2022.

We can also draw on material from Parish Pump, an organisation to which we subscribe, that provides a monthly selection of graphics, news stories, children’s pages, reviews, jokes, poems and prayers. The ‘Mouse Makes’ page and the puzzle page are from Parish Pump.

11

The magazine is managing to maintain a profit, mostly through advertising revenue and subscriptions. Our 15 advertisers remained loyal to us during the pandemic, paying a retaining fee. In May 2022 advertisers were asked if they would like to appear in the leaflet being produced for the 125th Anniversary celebrations, they readily agreed and paid willingly. We are grateful for their continued support.

But the magazine could not exist without the wizardry of Andrew Regan and his amazing computer skills. He converts our efforts into the sleek, compilation that is produced each month, whilst juggling his other tasks – church warden, Treasurer, full time lecturing job at Manchester University – and he has the patience of Job – except when it comes to late copy, which involves a great deal of extra work, on top of the hours it has already taken him to compile the magazine. Copy dates are printed on the back page and should be adhered to.

Special thanks go to two other unsung persons – our regular proofreader, Angela Foulkes, who spends hours on the phone with Andrew, going through the magazine in minute detail before it is sent to the printer, Kevin, of Frank Aspinall’s. He produces the polished magazine that is the envy of many other churches and considered the best in the Diocese by a former Bishop of Chester. We hope that we are maintaining the standard that both Mark Lane and Richard Parr set, and we hope our readership appreciates the Grapevine team’s efforts.

Rosie Stead

Handbell Ringers

The Handbell ringers have not met in 2022,

Lent Breakfasts

This year's topic was Embracing Our Environment. Once again, we ran a series of five Saturday morning sessions from 5 March to 2 April. This enabled us to consider the challenges that such a subject brings from a number of viewpoints.

Janine Arnott set us off on our journey with the topic, Church and the Environment. As our Curate she had already gathered a group to consider St. George's possible response to the environmental crisis. She talked about ecochurch, which is an umbrella term for an approach to church that recognises and promotes the role of the church in environmental issues. She suggested possible initiatives we could take, including working towards an A Rocha bronze award. We also considered what attitude and action scripture encourages us to take towards our environment.

12

On 12 March Grahame Buss, an Extinction Rebellion activist came to talk to us about Our Climate & Ecological Emergency. He had a unique perspective, having been a Principal Scientist at Shell before becoming a climate activist. Extinction Rebellion (XR) welcomes everyone and anyone who shares their concerns and principles. It's a decentralised organisation with local, autonomous groups and does not believe in apportioning blame, or in using violence.

Andy Clark talked to us on 19 March. As well as being a member of St. George's, Andy is a Lecturer in Environmental Science at Salford University. The title of his session was Tending the Garden – Food Sustainability. As well as galvanising us to understand the pressure on the world's food supply that climate change poses, Andy reminded us of the pressure on the environment that the clothing industry brings. Don't just cut down on your food waste, cut down on new clothes. Wear the ones you've got and buy second hand!

Friends of the Earth is a well-known environmental charity and Pete Abel, from Manchester came to talk about their work on 26 March. FoE has been going for a long time and it was good to hear of their continuing work and agitation on so many issues that arise from our exploiting the earth and its resources.

On Saturday 2 April we ended our Lenten series with what has now become a familiar session: What Have We Discovered? Grahame Buss had asked to return for this session and joined in with group discussions. Andy Clark had a series of questions and co-ordinated the responses. These answers will help in our creating an environmental action plan for St. George's.

A big 'thank you' to all our speakers, to all who attended the talks and especially to Peter Smith and his team for providing breakfast.

Chris Dawson

Linen Guild

The Linen guild continue to upkeep all the linen for the services in church and thank you to all the members of the group.

Pat Rigley

Messy Church Bake Off

Being able to juggle baking (not literally) whilst at the same time talking about Jesus has become a delightful challenge especially when it is live streamed, which is most all of the time. On occasions due to diary clashes, the baking is recorded but the cooking is all done in one take, so all the mistakes are there for everyone to see.

13

The initial idea for this was to offer something for children but it has become increasingly evident that there is a growing adult following (including the Archdeacon of Macclesfield).

The recipes are generally easy to do and don’t need any flash equipment or ingredients. I have learned a lot about preparation, timing and delivery and, occasionally things come together as I expect.

I have covered major festivals, scriptural narratives and general Christian themes whilst making three Kings cake for Epiphany, Bara Brith for St David’s Day, Valentine’s Chocolate heart cake and the Queen’s favourite, chocolate biscuit cake.

A la Blue Peter, I have to make at least one extra cake so I can say, “Here’s one I prepared earlier” to decorate it when it’s cool.

It’s a monthly online service to which everyone is welcome.

Elaine

Mothers’ Union

We have met during the year and had a very varied programme. We started in January with an afternoon tea with a difference, our tea was provided by The Damson Tree and packed into a box for each of us giving a selection of sandwiches, scone with jam and cream and cake. Then we had a very happy afternoon playing Beetle, the drawings were hilarious and not many resembled beetles. We were then serenaded by Gerard accompanied by Glenys. Curate Janine shared with us her experiences on her trip to the Holy Land as a run up to Easter. In June we celebrated the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, most of us remembering the Coronation viewed on a 9-inch black and white TV screen with the rain pouring down. July saw us invade the Deanwater Hotel along with many guests for a lunch which was enjoyed by everyone. In September Vicar Elaine led a communion service and enrolled new members and celebrated 40- and 55-year memberships. Judy Clark told about the Lyme Hall and the Legh family. A very entertaining afternoon was led by our Rosie Stead as she showed how to make our own crackers, we were very poor students and didn't listen to instructions but amid much laughter and frivolity we did all produce 2 crackers! each. The year was concluded by two members leading us in our Advent service.

On a sad note, we have lost 3 members during the year, Gaynor Cartwright, Jean Martin and Margaret Jeffrey and we give thanks for their support over the years.

14

We should also like to put on record thanks for the continued help we receive in the setting up and clearing away so we can continue to meet.

Pat Rigley

Praise And Play

2022 was a year of consolidation for praise and play. Over the year we have greeted several families who have had their children christened at St. George’s. Some have stayed for a few weeks and others have stayed for longer. It is always lovely to be able to welcome these families into the St. George’s family.

For the 125 Anniversary we looked at the 23[rd] Psalm and our display took the theme “He spreads a table for me in the sight of my enemies”. The children were all given a knitted sheep as a souvenir of the festival. At the end of the summer term, we said goodbye to a number of the children who were starting school or nursery. We also said goodbye to Morag Ranson during the summer term. Thank you, Morag, for your support and ministry with us over the years.

In September we discussed moving Praise and Play from the back of church to the Parish Room as the Out of School Club closed over the summer, which meant that it was available on Tuesday mornings. We moved to the Parish Room after the half term break. This is a much more suitable space for Praise and Play. We no longer have to be worried about children falling on the stone floor or climbing on the font, and the toilets are much more accessible. The children have more space to play, and we can have a greater range of activities for them. Parents and carers have more opportunity to chat together.

The team of leaders and helpers at Praise and Play is now down to a dedicated core of four and we desperately need more help. Should any of the current leaders leave for any reason it will be very difficult to continue to staff Praise and Play. Please do consider volunteering your time to welcome the children, their parents and carers into St. George’s family.

Lois Kelly

Prayer Chain

Our team of 9 links in the prayer chain have worked diligently over the past 12 months. We respond to requests (mostly anonymous) for prayers for loved ones.

There have been some sad stories but also some uplifting.

What I realise is that not everyone is 'cured'. In fact, very few but many are healed at some subtle level and that is so reassuring.

15

As the Lord said, 'Wherever 2 or 3 are gathered in My name, there I am also'.

As I believe, never underestimate the power of prayer. Sometimes that's all we have left.

Phoebe MacLeod

Storytime

Storytime with Nicola occurs once a month, at 5pm on the first Sunday of the month. Through the telling of short stories aimed at children aged 4-11, we tackle issues as wide-ranging as depression after the loss of a grandparent to a retelling of The Lost Sheep. Storytime with Nicola attracts upwards of between 100 and 400 views and has three regular writing contributors: Rev Canon Elaine Chegwin Hall, Nicola Pennicott-Hall and Rev Dr Janine Arnott.

Nicola Pennicott-Hall

St Gabriel’s

St Gabriel’s has been used as a festival church throughout the year. We held the week of Prayer for Christian Unity there in January, the Pentecost breakfast in June when we welcomed Revd Mike Newman from St Cuthbert’s in Cheadle. We held a Harvest service in October and a Community Christmas Carol service in December. We invite our friends from the Churches Together and it is a joy to share in worship together.

There isn’t a regular congregation as many have left due to frailty, illness, moving away or they have died so the PCC has been in discussion to discern what might be the best way forward for the shape of ministry and for the building itself. Please do hold the situation in prayer.

Sunday Clubs

During the first part of the year, we continued to offer a basic story and craft session in the children’s corner at the back of church during the Sunday 10:15am service to any young attendee present. The team was planning on resuming holding Sunday Clubs in the Parish Rooms when we had a sudden influx of young people due to the successful recruitment of several new choristers and the wish of the Director of Music for them to take part.

After some experimentation in the coffee area with the older group Sunday Clubs has returned to the larger parish room during term time. The pre-school / infants group leave during the first hymn and use the back of the room with the choristers joining after the Gloria and occupying the front area of the room. The

16

timings mean that we can offer a bible story and discussion or activity to the older group and the younger group can usually also fit in a song or game.

The current arrangement works well with the current staffing levels although with two leaders also being members of the choir, we would welcome anyone else who would be interested in joining the team. We are actively seeking new Assistant Leaders (helpers) as we didn’t have any which meant that staff were on the rota much more frequently in order to cover both roles. So far we have two new Assistants and would ideally like at least two more. The Assistant’s is a straightforward role as an extra adult helping the leader. There’s no preparation needed, just turn up when it's your turn.

Following the closure of the before and after school club we were delighted to have access to a range of craft equipment and materials which the club left behind as a donation to the church. To offer more and different experiences it was agreed that we should obtain a new portable projector with more current connectors and that has recently been purchased. We also have the use of WiFi if required via the Church’s dongle. As the service is live streamed, it is possible for the Leader to keep an eye on the progress of the service via the live stream and return to church at exactly the right time.

The high point of the past year however must be the return of the Sunday Clubs Christmas party. As always, the leaders and helpers were almost more excited than the children, but the Playmobil nativity story was much admired, and the games and goody bags went down a storm.

Telephone Buddies

Whilst the formal structure of the Telephone Buddies has evolved into something a bit more flexible, there are still those who faithfully keep in touch with their nominated link people on a regular basis.

This ensures that the wider congregation continue to feel included in the church family.

17

Associate Minister’s Report

I was very pleased to be licensed to St. George’s, Stockport on 27[th] September 2022 and to attend my Welcome Service on 2[nd] October 2022. I am enjoying the experience immensely of working in your friendly city church, with a wonderful musical tradition, after 20 years in my rural parish church in Great Budworth.

My working agreement is for two Sundays per month with some flexibility in there as we know how busy Christmas and Easter can be! I have led and preached predominantly at the 8.00am and 10.15am services and contribute to the livestreaming of Morning Prayer and have recently submitted one item for Storytime.

I look forward to being involved in further services in the coming year. I am also planning a 5 week “Contentious Christianity” on-line series which will be run on the five Tuesdays before Easter. The equivalent of two weekdays annually, to be in the parish is now available to me and suitable events to attend will be chosen.

I continue to be a Minister in Secular Employment in my IDEXX Laboratory workplace. Social media as The Reverend Vet continues well with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok presence. The main platform is Facebook which currently has 4925 followers. Many followers say they appreciate the daily reflections, poems, animal facts etc, especially where unable to attend church due to physical disability. A large proportion are also exploring faith. It is exciting to reach out to people that the physical church cannot reach.

My Podcast series “Believe it or Not” is expanding and is available on Spotify. I look forward to attracting further followers and exploring ways of interaction with the streaming available at Stockport.

Jenny McKay

18

Report from the Vicar 2022

Our 125[th] anniversary set the scene for many of our activities and services this year. At the outset, can I convey my grateful thanks to all those who worked so hard with the preparation and delivery of all those special occasions which meant so much to our church and wider community.

In January, we were delighted to welcome Rupert Battersby who shared some fascinating insights into the Battersby Family who owned the hat works in Offerton and in the North of France. It was a humorous and insightful evening enjoyed by many.

February marked the 125[th] anniversary of the consecration of St George’s and we were delighted to have Bishop Mark, the Bishop of Chester at this important service. We also buried a time capsule which had been carefully curated to include items relevant to today’s society and included some letters written by St George’s School. February also brought the annual Celebration of Baptism service.

March was taken up with Lenten journeying and a Concert from Stockport Grammar School, leading us to an April Eastertime and a wonderful gathering of people for our Drumroots workshop. The pizza was hot, plentiful and delicious afterwards!

The preparations for the Festival had been going on for some months before the event which took place from 4[th] to 8[th] May. The theme was “The Lord’s my Shepherd” and we were overwhelmed by the many beautiful and creative contributions. The banners, made by St George’s school, set the scene leading to the raising of “Shawn” the sheep into the chancel area. During the week we had visits from “Inspiring Animal Therapy” who brought two of their sheep to our assembly and some smaller animals to our family day on the Saturday where we were joined by the intrepid face painters, budding potters, facilitated by Brooklyn Pottery from Shaw Heath and the amazing Messy Church Team. The Sunday Pet Service brought an extra dimension to our worship and led us to meet Revd Dr Jenny McKay, who was to become our associate minister. The day was rounded off by a wonderful afternoon tea and Songs of Praise.

Later in May, Revd Dr Janine Arnott, our curate left to pastures new to be Rector in Malpas, Threapwood and Bickerton.

In June, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee was commemorated throughout the country and, whilst we couldn’t have our planned “Street” party due to the vagaries of the weather, we did enjoy a great afternoon with music and quizzes and a delicious treat of afternoon tea indoors in church.

19

The saying goes that an army marches on its stomach and we, as Jesus’ army, certainly marched on ours, with the help of a fabulous and varied menu. Thanks to Peter Smith and the team for being nothing short of brilliant in catering for our needs throughout the year.

The Fleet Air Arm and HMS Glory associations made the difficult decision to disband due to the age and infirmity of some if its members. They chose St George’s to lay up their standards in a poignant and moving service, which was my huge privilege to lead.

It was also my privilege to recall my ordination which had been held 25 years earlier at St George’s, which was unusual in itself, as Ordinations as Deacon invariably take place in Chester Cathedral. It was a lovely and heart-warming service, and it was a true delight to have the Venerable Richard Gillings, former Archdeacon and of Macclesfield and my former parish priest from Birkenhead, who came to preach on the day. He, and his family, travelled all the way from the Boat of Garten near Inverness to be there. I was also gifted some lovely things including a spectacular new green stole depicting St George and honouring the 125[th] anniversary with a little sheep motif. Thank you so much.

The second half of the year was just as busy with a celebration of marriage in July, a reflective and more restful August and plans for September for a Heritage Open Day and Battle of Britain service which had to be cancelled due to the sad death of Her Majesty the Queen.

A small team of us had been prepared for such an eventuality, so as soon as the news broke, we were able to move into a planned procedure which involved setting up the church for prayer and reflection, arranging specific services, raising and lowering the Union Flag and the tolling of muffled bells alongside chimes of celebration for the proclamation.

It is important to acknowledge, at this time, all those who had been involved in the earlier preparation, and also those who enacted what was required. Thank you to James Hibbert who spent many long hours with me as we endeavoured to make the many acts of worship appropriate and relevant. Thanks also to the choir who often stepped up at a moment’s notice to proclaim the Good News in song throughout this period of mourning. Thanks to the ministry team who helped to lead and facilitate acts of worship and reflection. Thanks to those who raised and lowered the flag in line with protocol and to the bellringers, under the direction of Andrew Mayes, who made this solemn and sombre occasion, fitting and respectful.

20

We were also asked to support the Civic service at St Mary in the Marketplace on the evening prior to the Queen’s funeral. James gave up his birthday celebrations to sit with me as we put the service together and worked with the choir who accompanied us to the service which was attended by a full congregation, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant, the Mayor and other dignitaries. It was very well received and much appreciated.

Thanks to James for his continued diligence and enthusiasm. In addition, James has encouraged new members to join the choir including a wonderful influx of children who are thoroughly enjoying being part of our music in worship.

Revd Dr Jenny McKay was licensed as Associate Priest on 27[th] September and a service of welcome took place on the following Sunday followed by refreshments.

In October, we held a Harvest Service at St George’s and St Gabriel’s, supported the Stepping Hill Chaplaincy Team at the Baby memorial service and welcomed the Sea Cadets for their Trafalgar Day Service.

On Sunday 2nd October we welcomed back Canon John Roff, former vicar of St George’s, as he celebrated his 50[th] anniversary of ordination. A few days later, I was commissioned as Rural Dean of Stockport

Things started to increase apace again in November. The Craft fair was back in business on 11[th] . This was put on by local crafter, Emma Bullock, with some help and support from those at St George’s.

Also, in November we held our well attended Celebration of Life service, Remembrance Sunday service, Christ the King and Advent Carol services as well as the Christmas Tree Festival. Thanks again to all of those who pulled out the stops to makes this such a splendid time for the church, schools and wider community. The £8K+ financial gain was offset somewhat with the news that our energy prices were rising sharply meaning that the energy bill was around £1.5K for those few days of the Christmas Tree Festival. We know we have a challenge ahead of us in this regard, in common with so many others.

In regard to finance, we have had a number of kind donations, but we have also lost a regular income stream now that the Before and After school have ceased operating in the parish rooms. We need to think carefully and creatively how we might use this space in the future. Praise and Play have taken over the venue on Tuesday mornings and we started Warm Spaces after the Morning Prayer and Communion services on Wednesday which have also been moved to the parish rooms with the permission of the Bishop and Archdeacon. This maximises the use of the building which is already being warmed for another user and we were

21

successful in a bid for funding from the local council for £1K to support the Warm Spaces venture.

December brought the welcome return of many of our regular bookings and services as we moved towards Christmas which was fabulous to see so many people in church again.

It has been a really busy year but, thanks to the effort and support of so many, we have done it! We have celebrated and rejoiced, mourned and cried and have come out stronger in so many ways. Romans 12:4-18

Thank you, is underselling the debt of gratitude that is owed to so many over this year. It has been a joy, a privilege and delight to serve this parish alongside you. With every blessing

Elaine

22

Financial Review for 2022

The PCC recorded a decrease in funds of £1,145 over the year. PCC unrestricted funds grew by £1,861. The Fabric Fund decreased by £936 and St Gabriel’s funds reduced by £1,442. The Choir Legacy fund (established in 2020 from a bequest of £5,000) reduced by £990 to a balance of £4,461. The Preservation Trust funds reduced by £100, and other restricted funds increased during the year by £462.

St George’s unrestricted funds

St George’s unrestricted funds showed a surplus, with income and capital gains exceeding expenditure by £1,861, compared with a surplus of £2,553 last year. This surplus was after transferring an amount of £7,000 from unrestricted funds to the Fabric Fund.

Overall income to unrestricted funds increased by £19,1153 to £149,563. Total voluntary income, excluding legacies and grants, increased by £4,267 to £95,089 as most of our regular giver scheme members continued with their support. Income received from letting the church and Parish Rooms increased by £5,902 to £18,038 as more activities resumed in church. Gross income from fundraising events increased by £8,402 to £16,738, mainly as a result of being able to hold both the 125[th] Anniversary and the Christmas Tree Festivals. Grants totalling £9,619 were received, including £8,080 from the Fearn Trust for roof repairs, and £986 from Chester Diocese towards energy bills.

Overall expenditure increased by £17,045 to £140,702. Parish share costs increased by £2,033 to £69,511. Church running costs increased by £7,618, as usage of the building increased, however church maintenance costs decreased by £1,410. Upkeep of services, including Music and organ costs, increased by £921 to £5,407. This cost of producing the magazine increased by £2,208 as we returned from digital only to printed issues. Expenditure on the Parish Rooms increased by £859 to £4,224. The cost of maintaining the curate’s house decreased by £744 to £2,922, mainly from a reduction in council tax after the property became vacant in May 2022.

A transfer of £7,000 was made from St George’s Unrestricted Funds to the Fabric Fund, this representing most of the net income from the Christmas Tree Festival. It was not necessary to transfer back any funds in order to comply with our financial reserving policy, in contrast to the situation in the last few years.

23

Designated Funds

St Gabriel’s funds

There was a deficit of £1,442 for the year. Income for the year reduced by £796 to £666 including £196 voluntary giving (and associated income tax recoverable) and rental income of £342. Total expenditure reduced by £715 to £2,108, which included £195 contributed to St George’s to cover its share of the Parish Share, clergy expenses, and Parish Office costs.

The reserves available to the church now stand at £8,590.

Fabric Fund

This fund was established in 2017, and received a further grant of £100 from the St George’s Preservation Trust. Interest received on investments was £510, however there was a reduction in the value of the investments of £8,081, compared with a gain of £13,060 in 2021. There was a transfer into the fund from Unrestricted Funds of £7,000. Expenditure for the year was £465, for repairs to the floodlights. The fund currently stands at £125,908, representing an decrease for the year of £936.

Choir Legacy Fund

This fund was established in 2020 with a £5,000 bequest from Frank Gee, a former chorister. After capital losses of £490 and expenditure of £500 to support the choir, the fund stands at £4,461.

St George’s restricted funds

The PCC is grateful for the continuing support of the Fearn Trust, which provided a grant of £20,000 to be used towards the cost of insuring both St George’s and St Gabriel’s churches, and additional grants of £3,496 towards roof repairs and electrical works.

Charitable funds

The collection from the St George’s Day Scouts parade service, amounting to £405, was transferred to Stockport District Scouts, who chose to donate it to the DEC Humanitarian Appeal. A further £308 was transferred directly to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal from collections in church in April.

Donations of £152 from the annual Baby Memorial Service were shared between the Cradle Charity and the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society.

The sum of £726, from collections at the Christingle Services, was donated to the Children’s Society this year, along with a further £150 raised from carol singing.

24

Music Fund

This fund was established to receive grants for musical activities. In 2022 income received was nil, and payments totalling £1,000 were made to support our choral scholars.

Choir Music Fund

This fund may be used to cover the cost of the replacement of choir music, and has a balance of £112.

St George’s Preservation Trust

Full accounts for the Trust are available on application.

Income for the year was nil.

Expenditure this year comprised a grant to the Fabric Fund of £100, which has reduced the balance within the fund to £500. The Trustees have indicated their intention to pass the remaining balance to the Fabric Fund over the next five years.

Reserves and Investment Policies

The PCC reviewed its reserving policy in 2017. It is the policy of St George’s to hold in reserves the equivalent of three months general running costs and an additional three month’s salaries. At least one half of its minimum reserve should be held in Unrestricted Funds. These reserves may be invested in funds which provide some protection against loss of value due to inflation. This may take the form of capital appreciation or income which can be re-invested.

Reserves will continue to be held in the PCC’s accounts with CCLA Investment Managers which is the leading fund manager for the assets of the church, charities and local authorities. It has a policy of engaging only in ethical

investments and is owned by its clients – through the Boards of Finance in the case of the Church of England. The CBF Church of England Investment Fund is used which is highly diversified and balanced across many sectors of investment and is actively managed to achieve long term capital growth and steady income.

As at 31 December 2022 it was not necessary for the PCC to transfer funds from the Fabric Fund to Unrestricted Funds in order to comply with this policy. Transfers may become necessary during 2023 if expenditure exceeds income.

It is also the policy to hold a reserve to cover the work for projects that have been identified as necessary. This reserve, which may be required at short notice, is to be held in secure funds that are not subject to capital risks. An income from these funds while desirable is not essential. The CBF Church of England Deposit Fund is used, which holds only funds with AAA rated organisations and is managed by

25

CCLA. However, excess funds may also be invested in the CBF Church of England Investment Fund.

The PCC has set a target minimum amount to be held in the Fabric Fund. This is calculated as a percentage of the insurance valuation of St George’s Church, and the PCC make transfers from Unrestricted Funds into the Fabric Fund with the aim of reaching the target minimum within five to ten years. The current target minimum level is £142,000

A number of potential projects have been identified by the PCC including:

St George’s Church

Review of the lighting and sound systems in church Repairs to the West Window

Further investigations into the subsidence in the north east corner of the church, and any remedial actions required

Repointing of churchyard wall Maintenance of masonry at roof level Development of kitchen and toilet facilities, with changes to the internal porches

Parish Rooms

Redevelopment of the kitchen

The PCC believes that, at present, there are insufficient reserves available to cover all of these projects. Consequently, individual projects will commence only when adequate finance is available.

The reserves policy for St Gabriel’s church was reviewed in 2016 and was amended to match that of St George’s, i.e. the equivalent of three months general running costs. No major projects are envisaged in the near future, and the reserves are considered to be adequate.

The reserves are held on deposit with the church’s bankers, or with CCLA Investment Managers.

Dr Andrew Regan 5[th] February 2023

Approval

The annual report was approved by the Parochial Church Council by email on 28[th] March 2023 and signed on its behalf by:

26

Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of the Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport for the year ended 31 December 2022.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the Parochial Church Council (“PCC”) 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 PCC’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 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:

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.

Signed Date 14[th] April 2023

Paul Clancy, BA (Hons), ACA, MBA 19 Rosemoor Gardens Appleton Warrington WA4 4RF.

27

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES for the year ended 31 December 2022

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Funds Total Funds
Funds Funds Funds 2022 2021
Note £ £ £ £ £
Income and endowments
Donations and legacies 2.a 106,431 196 24,222 130,849 125,286
Other trading activities 2.b 34,776 342 - 35,118 20,682
Income from investments 2.c 247 638 - 885 43
Income from church activities 2.d 8,109 - - 8,109 9,754
Other income 2.e - - - - -
Total income 149,563 1,176 24,222 174,961 155,765
Expenditure
Expenditure on church activities 3.a 135,242 3,073 23,760 162,075 161,580
Expenditure on raising funds 3.b 5,460 - - 5,460 375
Total expenditure 140,702 3,073 23,760 167,535 161,955
Net income/(expenditure) 8,861 (1,897) 462 7,426 (6,190)
before investment gains/losses
Net gains/(losses) on investments 4.b - (8,571) - (8,571) 13,901
Net income/(expenditure) 8,861 (10,468) 462 (1,145) 7,711
Transfers between funds
Unrestricted Fund to Fabric Fund 7.a (7,000) 7,000 - -
Preservation Trust to Fabric Fund 7.b 100 (100) - -
Fabric Fund to Unrestricted Fund 7.c - - - -
Net movement in funds 8,9 1,861 (3,368) 362 (1,145) 7,711
Total funds brought forward 8,9 75,102 142,327 17,476 234,905 227,007
Total funds carried forward 8,9 76,963 138,959 17,838 233,760 234,718

A-1

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170 BALANCE SHEET at 31 December 2022

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Total
Funds Funds Funds 2022 2021
Note £ £ £ £ £
Fixed Assets
Tangible fixed assets 4.a 35,000 - - 35,000 35,500
Investment assets 4.b - 84,926 - 84,926 93,496
Total fixed assets 35,000 84,926 - 119,926 128,996
Current Assets
Stock - - - - -
Debtors 5 15,261 31 1,340 16,632 15,943
Short term deposits 12,818 47,767 - 60,585 59,799
Cash at bank and in hand 23,189 6,235 17,224 46,648 35,351
Total current assets 51,268 54,033 18,564 123,865 111,093
Liabilities
Creditors 6 (9,305) - (726) (10,031) (5,371)
Internal balances - - - - -
Net Current Assets/(Liabilities) 41,963 54,033 17,838 113,834 105,722
Total assets less current 76,963 138,959 17,838 233,760 234,718
liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due - - - -
after one year
Net Assets 76,963 138,959 17,838 233,760 234,718
Funds
Unrestricted 76,963 - - 76,963 74,915
Designated 8 - 138,959 - 138,959 142,327
Restricted 9 - - 17,838 17,838 17,476
Total Funds 76,963 138,959 17,838 233,760 234,718

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on and signed on its behalf by

…………………………………………………………………………………………… (PCC Chairman)

The notes on pages A-3 to A-9 form part of these accounts

A-2

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170

NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2022

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011, current Church Accounting Regulations and Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 (FRS102) together with the exemptions available to smaller charities under Section 1A. These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the value of investment assets which are shown at market value.

They include all transactions for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include accounts of church groups that owe their affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Funds

Restricted funds represent donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. They are only expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining at the end of each year is carried forward as a balance on that fund.

Unrestricted funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application on the general purposes of the PCC.

Designated Funds are unrestricted funds which the PCC has designated for a particular purpose, but the PCC retains the ability to use some or all of these funds for the general purposes of the PCC.

Income recognition

All income sources are accounted for gross. Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate is recognised. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Dividends are accounted for when due and payable. Interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue. All other income is recognised when it is receivable.

The value of any voluntary help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the annual report.

Expenditure recognition

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. The parish share is accounted for when payable. Any parish share unpaid at 31 December is provided for in these accounts as an operational (though not legal) liability and is shown as a creditor in the Balance Sheet. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted gross.

Governance costs include any costs of the preparation and examination of statutory accounts and of any legal advice to the PCC on governance or constitutional matters.

Assets

Consecrated and beneficed property is excluded from the accounts by s10(2)(a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011. Movable church furnishings held by the Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are accounted as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church's inventories which can be inspected at any reasonable time. For inalienable property acquired prior to 2001 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts. Items acquired since 1 January 2001 have been capitalised and depreciated in the accounts over their anticipated useful economic life on a straight line basis.

All expenditure incurred in the year on consecrated and benefice buildings , or individual items under £1,000 or on the repair of movable church furnishings acquired before 1 January 2001 is written off. Other items of equipment with a purchase price over £1,000 used within church premises are depreciated on a straight line basis over 4 years.

Investments are valued at market value at 31 December.

The Parochial Church Council consider that there are no material uncertainties about the ability of St George's PCC to continue as a going concern.

A-3

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170

NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2022

Rounding
2
2
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
2.a Donations and legacies
Tax efficient planned giving
Other planned giving
Collections at services
Donations, appeals, etc.
Income tax recoverable
Grants
Gifts of quoted securities
Legacies		 Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
2022
2021
£
£
£
£
£
56,731
-
-
56,731
56,555
3,580
-
-
3,580
3,133
10,177
157
-
10,334
9,047
7,533
-
726
8,259
6,451
17,068
39
-
17,107
16,947
9,619
-
23,496
33,115
33,153
-
-
-
-
-
1,723
-
-
1,723
-
106,431
196
24,222
130,849
125,286
Total Funds

Note: Amounts collected from the St Gabriel's congregation, including planned giving, are shown under Collections at services ( Designated Funds) . This is necessary to ensure confidentiallity given the small number of donors in some categories.

2.b Other trading activities
Church lettings
Parish room lettings
Festivals, other fund-raising events
2.c Income from investments
Rent
2.d
Income from church activities
Bookstall
Magazine
Church fees for weddings and funerals
Church events
2.e
Other income
Other income
TOTAL INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Dividends and interest including tax
recoverable		 7,160
342
-
7,502
2,539
10,878
-
-
10,878
9,807
16,738
-
-
16,738
8,336
34,776
342
-
35,118
20,682
238
638
-
876
43
9
-
-
9
-
247
638
-
885
43
21
-
-
21
26
4,355
-
-
4,355
2,687
3,733
-
-
3,733
7,032
-
-
-
-
9
8,109
-
-
8,109
9,754
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
149,563
1,176
24,222
174,961
155,765

A-4

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170

NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

for the year ended 31 December 2022

3
EXPENDITURE
3.a Expenditure on church activities
Missionary and charitable giving:
Overseas Mission Societies
Christian Relief & Development Agencies
Home Mission & Church Societies
Secular Charities
Subtotal
Ministry:
Parish share & deanery expenses
Other ministry costs
Church running expenses
Church maintenance
Upkeep of services
Music and organ
Upkeep of churchyard
Magazine and bookstall
Salaries, wages and honoraria (see note 3.c)
Major repairs/replacements
Support costs
Administration
Professional fees
Bank charges
Governance costs
Cost of Annual Meeting
Total
3.b Expenditure on raising funds
Envelope printing
Fund-raising trading costs
Fetes, bazaars and other fund-raising events
Total
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
Staff costs
3.c Wages and salaries
Tax and National Insurance
Curate's house - repairs, maintenance and
other costs
Parish rooms - repairs, maintenance and
running costs		 Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
2022
2021
£
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
726
726
430
30
-
-
30
-
30
-
726
756
430
69,511
155
-
69,666
68,132
6,595
16
-
6,611
7,022
23,639
399
21,062
45,100
36,794
691
699
921
2,311
3,847
3,077
-
-
3,077
2,042
2,330
500
1,051
3,881
3,835
3,985
1,280
-
5,265
4,803
2,287
-
-
2,287
79
4,224
-
-
4,224
4,001
2,922
5
-
2,927
3,768
11,371
10
-
11,381
11,524
-
-
-
-
11,053
37
-
-
37
166
3,829
9
-
3,838
4,084
714
-
-
714
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,073
23,760
162,075
161,580
211
-
-
211
132
5,249
-
-
5,249
243
5,460
-
-
5,460
375
140,702
3,073
23,760
167,535
161,955
11,368
10
-
11,378
11,512
3
-
-
3
11
11,371
10
-
11,381
11,523
Total Funds
135,242

During the year the PCC employed a Director of Music and a secretary at St George's, both on a part-time basis.

The John Pilling Choral Scholars were funded from the Music Fund, from grants received from the Pilling Trust.

A-5

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170 NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2022

3 EXPENDITURE(cont)

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds Funds 2022 2021 £ £ £ £ £

3.d Payments to PCC members

James Hibbert was a PCC member throughout 2021 and 2022. In 2022 the PCC paid him a salary as the Director of Music (including payment for weddings and funerals) of £6842 (2021: £6,868), and paid £280 (2021: £240) towards his professional development.

4 FIXED ASSETS FOR USE BY THE PCC

----- Start of picture text -----
||||| |---|---|---|---| |Freehold land| |4.a|Tangible fixed assets|and buildings| |£| |Actual/Deemed Cost|At 01/01/22|52,000| |Additions|-| |At|31/12/22|52,000| |Depreciation|At|01/01/22|16,500| |Charge for year|500| |At|31/12/22|17,000| |Net Book Value|At|31/12/22|35,000| |At|31/12/21|35,500|

----- End of picture text -----

The freehold land and buildings comprise the curate's house at 40 Beechfield Road, Stockport. The house was purchased in 1988 at a cost, after refurbishing, of £52,000. The building is being depreciated at £500 per annum from 2003 on the basis of its expected useful life of 50 years.

Those meeting rooms owned by the PCC are integral parts of the school premises and were donated by the Founder in 1901. As such the rooms are deemed to have no value for the purposes of these accounts.

----- Start of picture text -----
4.b Investment assets 2022 2021
Designated Designated Designated All All
Movements in the year: Choir legacy Fabric Fund Total Funds Funds
£ £ £ £ £
Opening market value 5,451 88,046 93,497 93,497 79,595
Purchases at cost, less disposals at carrying (500) 500 - - -
value
Net gains/(losses) on disposals and annual (490) (8,081) (8,571) (8,571) 13,901
revaluation
Closing market value 4,461 80,465 84,926 84,926 93,496
-
No investment assets were held in Unrestricted Funds or in Restricted Funds. -
----- End of picture text -----

Holdings at 31 December in CBF Church of England Investment Fund Accumulation Units:

----- Start of picture text -----
|||| |---|---|---| |2022|2021| |Choir legacy|84.10|93.33| |Fabric Fund|1,516.82|1,507.59| |Total|1,600.92|1,600.92|

----- End of picture text -----

A-6

----- Start of picture text -----
2021
All Funds
12,439 2,212 1,292 15,943 - - 4,525 846 5,371
All Funds
12,215 2,356 2,061 16,632 - - 8,971 1,060 10,031
Total
Restricted - 1,340 - 1,340 - - - 726 726
Trust
Preservation - - - - - - - - -
Restricted funds
PCC
Restricted
- 1,340 - 1,340 - - - 726 726
2022
Total
Designated 31 - 31 - - - - -
St
Gabriel's 31 - - - - - - -
Charity number 1134170
for the year ended 31 December 2022 Designated Funds -
NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Fabric
- - - - 31 - - - - -
Choir Legacy
- - - - - - - - -
PCC
Unrestricted 12,184 1,016 2,061 15,261 - - 8,971 334 9,305
Total Total
DEBTORS Tax recoverable Prepayments and accrued interest Other debtors LIABILITIES: Amounts falling due in one year Accruals and deferred income Creditors for goods and services Other creditors
----- End of picture text -----

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport Charity number 1134170 NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2022

7 TRANSFERS BETWEEN FUNDS

8 DESIGNATED FUNDS

Designated Funds are fund set aside for a particular purpose. However, the PCC may resolve to use such funds for any other purpose.

The St Gabriel's Fund is used for all matters relating to St Gabriel's Church, and the PCC has given the St Gabriel's Committee limited financial authority over these finances.

The Fabric Fund holds monies set aside for the maintenance and repair of church buildings, including the Parish Rooms and the Curate's House. The PCC intend to make regular transfers into this fund from unrestricted income.

The Choir Legacy Fund was established in 2020 with a bequest from Frank Gee, a former choir member. It is intended to be used for the benefit of the choir.

Fund movements
Balance at 01/01/22
Income
Expenditure
Transfers between funds
Investment gains
Change in fund
Balance at 31/12/22
Represented by:
Fixed assets
Investment assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Internal balances
Total		 Choir
Fabric
St
Total
Legacy
Fund
Gabriel's
Designated
5,451
126,844
10,032
142,327
-
-
510
666
1,176
-
(500)
(465)
(2,108)
(3,073)
-
-
7,100
-
7,100
-
(490)
(8,081)
-
(8,571)
-
(990)
(936)
(1,442)
(3,368)
4,461
125,908
8,590
138,959
-
-
-
-
-
4,461
80,464
-
84,925
-
45,444
8,590
54,034
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,461
125,908
8,590
138,959
-
-
-
-

A-8

Parochial Church Council of St George, Stockport

Charity number 1134170 NOTES to the FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2022

9 RESTRICTED FUNDS

St George's Church Preservation Trust was established under a trust deed in 1990. The objects include the restoration and repair of the fabric and contents of St George's church, the parish office, the parish rooms and other PCC property.

In 2022 the trustees made a grant of £100 from the Preservation Trust to the Fabric Fund, and have stated their intention to transfer the remaining amount over the coming years.

The Preservation Trust is considered to be a connected charity, consequently the transactions and balances have been included in these accounts, but are restricted funds.

The PCC Restricted Fund represents donations given and monies raised for specific objectives.

Fund movements
Balance at 01/01/22
Income
Expenditure
Transfers between funds
Investment gains
Change in fund
Balance at 31/12/22
Represented by:
Fixed assets
Investment assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Internal balances
Total
Analysis of PCC Restricted Funds
Charitable Payments
-
Choir Music
163
Grants: Fearn Trust
9,492
Music
7,221
Other
-
Total
16,876
-
Balance at
01/01/22		 PCC
Preservation
Total
Restricted
Trust
16,876
600
17,476
24,222
-
24,222
(23,760)
-
(23,760)
-
(100)
(100)
-
-
-
462
(100)
362
17,338
500
17,838
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
18,064
500
18,564
(726)
-
(726)
-
-
-
17,338
500
17,838
-
-
-
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
726
(726)
-
-
-
-
(51)
-
(51)
112
23,496
(21,983)
-
1,513
11,005
-
(1,000)
-
(1,000)
6,221
-
-
-
-
-
24,222
(23,760)
-
462
17,338
-
Balance at
31/12/22
Change in
fund

An annual grant from the Fearn Trust of £20,000 (2021: £20,000) was received towards the cost of insuring St George's Church and St Gabriel's Church. During 2022 the Fearn Trust also gave additional grants totalling £3,496 (2021: £1,440) towards repairs to the roof of St George's Church and for electrical works.

The Music Fund holds any grant income received in respect of musical activities.

No further grant was received during 2022 (2021: £2,000) from the Pilling Trust to support our Choral Scholars.

A-9