2024-12-31-accounts

The Parish Church of St Martin-in-Herne with St Peter's Greenhill i'i'ii, The Amiual Parochial Church Meeting Sunday 27th April 2025, at 11.00am, St Peter's Church Greenhill

Contents Page AGENDA Church information APCM Meetin Sunda 21. A ril 2024 Minutes of the APCM (Vestry Report and Annual Meeting) and Lay readerfs 2023 report) Scheme of Representation and resolutlon 12 23 APCM MEETING 2025 Priest in Charge's report for the year 2024 Re orts re uired under the Church Re resentation Rules 2024 Churchwardens report Electoral roll report Annual Report on the proceedings of the PCC during 2024 St Martin's and St Peterfs Financial Report for 2024 (including ReseNes Policy) (See Annexe pages l To 13for the Church Accounts/Financiol Statements) Fabric Report from the Fabrlc Committee and the Churchwardens Deanery Synod Report 24 24 27 27 28 28 29 31 32 Re orts from Church O Introduction August Activity Days Bell ringing report Children and Sunday School Report Choir Report Churchyard malntenance team Community Café Flower arrangers GiftAid Herne Community Fun Day House group bible study Little Fishes Messy Church Pastoral report safeguarding Schools anisations and Committees 33 33 33 33 34 34 35 36 36 36 37 38 38 39 39 40 The St Martin's Church (Institute) Hall: otherwise, Herne Church Hall St Martins Readers and Intercessors St Martin's Servers and Chalice bearers St Martins Tuesday Toddler Group Worship Band Financial Statements and Examined Church Accounts 41 41 42 42 43 Annex page 44 1-13

THE PARISH OF ST MARTIN'S HERNE WITH ST PETER'S GREENHILL Together we seek God Our mission is to share God'5 love and to 8row as God's people THE 2025 ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING To be held in St Peterfs Church Greenhill on Sunday 27 April 2025 at 11.00 am oras soon thereafter AGENDA for 2025 Welcome, opening prayers and apologies for absence. Declarations of proxies if any Parti The Vestry Meeting l. Minutes of the Vestry meeting held on Sunday, 21" April 2024 2, Matters arising from the minutes 3. Election of churchwardens Itwol Part 2 The Annual Meetin l. Apologies and procedures 2. Church Information and activities of the Parish generally (for information) 3, Minutes of the Annual Meeting held on Sunday, 21"April 2024 4. Matters arising from minutes Mandatory reports required under the Church Representation rules 2024 5. Churchwarden's and incumbents report 6. Electoral Roll Report with oral update on the numbers on the roll as at the 2th tApril 2025 7. Annual Report on the Proceedings of the PCC during 2024 8. Churchwarden's report 9. Financial Report forst Martin's ar7d St Peterfs including approval of the 2024 accounts 10. Appointment of auditors or independent examiner for St Martin's and St Peter's Iprop05al is PG Lemon LLPI 11. Report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod 12. Fabric Committee Report Mandatory elections 13. Election of Deborah Waller in her capacity as Lay reader to be an ex officio member of the PCC 14. Election of PCC members. To include a. Appointment of deputy/assistant churchwarden5

b. Election of three PCC members lif nominations received) for 2025 to 2028 (being three retiring) This is calculoted on the assumption that the new Electoral roll will have more than 50 names butfewer than 100 Election of one PCC member to take a casual vacancy not filled in 2024 NB Appointment of Sides people to be dealt with by the PCC at the next following PCC meetin8 so no election required General re orts 15. Reports from church organisations August Activity days b. The Bellringer5 Children's and Sunday School report d. The Choir The Churchyard maintenance team Community Cafe g. The Flower arrangers h. Gift Aid Little Fishes Messy Church k. Pastoral report Safeguarding m. Schools n. St Martin's Church Institute St Martins Readers and Intercessors p. St Martin's server5 and chalice bearers q. St Martin's Tuesday Toddler Group Worship at St Peters Greenhill The Worship Band 16. Date of first meeting of the new PCC: Monday 28 April 2025 7pm at St Martin's Church 17. Any other business 18. The Blessing th

CHURCH INFORMATION 2024 ST MARTIN-IN-HERNE with ST PETER GREENHILL Re istered Charit No 1134604 1st Janua -315t December 2024 St Martin-in-Herne Church Herne Street Herne Herne Bay Kent St Peter's Church Herne Drive Greenhill Herne Bay Kent. INCUMBENT Vacancy until 30th July 2024 and then the appointment of Priest in Charge Revd. Christopher Carnaby Denyer CURATE None BANKERS St Martin-in-Herne Church Lloyds, Herne Bav St Peter'5 Church Santander Account (for receipt of rental monies only) CCLA Investment Management Ltd Senator House, 85 Queen's Street, London, EC4V 4ET INDEPENDENT EXAMINER P.G. Lemon LLP 22 - 26 Bank Street Herne Bay CT6 SEAL BACKGROUND The parish of St Martin-In-Herne with St Peter, Greenhill extends to the railway in Eddington to the North, includes Broomfield, Talmead Estate, Greenhill, Still Water Park, Herne Common and Blean Woods in the South. The population is approximately 16,000 and, in addition, there is new housing in the east of the parish. The Parochial Church Council is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure 1956 as amended. The appointment of the PCC members is governed by and set out in the Church Representation Rules 2024. THE TASK OF THE PCC The Synodical Government Measure 1969 states clearly: It shall be the duty of the incumbent and the Porochial Church Council to consult together on matters of general concern and importance in the parish. It then sets out a number of functions of the PCC, of which perhaps the most important- and certainly the widest- is that the primary objective of the PCC is:

Co-operation with the incumbent in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic and ecumenical The incumbent and the PCC each have their own particular rights and responsibilities in the life of the church, but the important theme here is partnership and co-operation. More Specifically the pcc is responsible for the maintenance of the church buildings and churchyard, and, with the incumbent, for deciding how the church's money is to be spent and overseeing safeguarding. The PCC is formally the employer of the church's paid workers, for example our organist, St Peterf5 caretaker and administrator. The PCC will have on it one or more members of the Deanery Synod, who have an important role in linking the pa rish into the wider structures of the church, and also Churches Together in Herne Bay. MEMBERSHIP Members of the PCC are either (al ex officio lon the PCC because of their role in the parish church) or Ib} co-opted by the PCC in accordance with the Church Representation Rules or Icl elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting IAPCMI From 1st January 2024 and specifically from the APCM on the 21st April 2024 in addition to Revd Chris 14 persons served as members of the PCC and all are also trustees.. (a) Ex-Officio- Revd. Christopher Carnaby- Denyer Priscilla Cox Priest in cha rge Ifrom 30th July 20241 Ch ris Exley Church warden from 21. April 2024 and Deanery Synod Rep John Bennett Church warden from 21, April 2024 Sarah Bingham Deputy Churchwarden from 21" April 2024 Deborah Waller Deputy Churchwarden from 21st April 2024 Licensed Lay Reader from Autumn 2021 and Deanery Synod Rep (b} Co-opted members/invitees Susan Record (choir and organist) Elected bein 8 PCC members Elected 2024.. so, they will retire in 2027 Wendy Ann Dinley Richard Chant One casual vacancy remains Elected 2023: so, they will retire in 2026 Sheila Gough Peter Frost Ann Ackland IsafegLtarding officer)

Elected 2022 term of office explres 2025 (So, there are now three vacancies to be filled) Doug Bubb Andrew Gough Hilary Burnage That means In 2025 there wlll be vacancles for the following positions to be elected: 2 Churchwardens {an annual appointment) 2 Deputy/assistant church wardens (an annual appointment) Election and appointment of Deborah Waller to the PCC in her capacity as lay reader land not as an elected lay member) Elected PCC Members representing the laity- 3 vacancies for office 2025-2028. However, this is predicated on the assumption that the new Electoral roll will have more than So names but fewer than 100 I casual vacancy for office until 2027 Current Officers Revd Chris ecific roles on PCC Sheila Gough Andrew Gough Andrew Gough Ann Ackland Chair Treasurer Gift Aid Secretary PCC Secretary Safeguarding Officer th Deanery Synod Rep each for a three-year appointment on 16 Aprll 2023 so they wlll retire at the APCM In 2026 Priscilla Cox Deborah Waller COMMIThEES 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 direttion by the Council. It consists of the incumbent, churchwardens, treasurer and at least another PCC member, in our case preferably a representative of St Peter's. It acts as another committee and reports back tothe PCC. It can alsodiscuss and setthe next PCC agenda although this can be set by the incumbent alone. th By a resolution of the PCC passed on the 19 October 2020 it has authority to spend up to £250 for equipment or in relation to any other issue brought before it and may commit to an aggregate expenditure of £500 only, subject to the details of the individual and aggregated expenditure being brought to the next PCC meeting following the standing committee. This resolution has not been revoked. Members- Priscilla Cox and Chris Exley (as churchwardens) and Sheila Gough (Treasurer). Deborah Waller {lay reader) both appointed by the PCC. Andrew Gough (secretary) attends to take minutes. The two PCC members should be appointed by the PCC at the first PCC meeting after the APCM

All members of the PCC are expected to sit on a committee. Other Committees in 2024 were: Finance and Stewardship Sheila Gough (Chair) Priscilla Cox Andrew Gough Fabric- St Martin's, Instbtute Hall. St Peterfs and reordering at St Martln's Priscilla Cox Clifford Goble. Doug Bubb John Bennett Steve Jackson Roger Jack50n Social Sarah Bingham (chair) Communications & Publicity Anne Lehane. Sarah Bingham 'Denotes non- members of the PCC In addition.. Mission & Evangelism Team This had met forthe first time on March 19 2019 as a result of Herne Parish becomlng one of the first to be invited to join the Diocesan "Chan ed Lives Chan Lives Conversations" Safeguardlng coordinator: Anne Ackland Gift Aid Secretary: Andrew Gough Electoral Roll Officer: Andrew Gough Health & Safety Rep: Doug Bubb CHURCH ArrENDANCE FOR 2024 [NB: Figures In brackets denote prevlous yearfs fl8ures] Church attendance averaged 55 (55) adults and 6 (6J children across the year on normal Sundays during 2024, with larger numbers at festivals and when schools were involved in services. Being without a vicar for part of the time has affected the numbers of baptisms and weddlngs Attendance for addltlonal events Baptisms Weddings Funerals 20 (28).. 8 (10) infant,12 (15J children," O {3J adults 4{4J 5 (15J.' 4 (IOJ in church, l (5) at crematorium or cemetery

Attendance for services Adults 55 (45) (estimated 39 aged 18-69 years and 16 aged 70 years plus} Children Total 8:00 and 10.00 am Sunday Services Average Attendance 6 {101 61 (55) no breakdown Easter Se￿Ices Total Attendance no breakdown 122193) 917 (740 includes Midnight Eucharist presided over by the Archbishop) Congregation and local community: no breakdown Christmas Total Attendance Special Services during Advent 2021, e.g. nativitie5 and carol services no breakdown 455 (1405). civic and school- specific: 7251558). no breakdown no breokdown Joiners and leavers: 12 (8) adult5 and 2 (2) children and young people joined our worshipping community durin8 2024. 3 adults and O children and youn8 people left our worshippin8 community during 2024. Other mission and ministry to Children & Young Families: {Al We have two thriving toddler groups: one on Tuesdays in Herne Church Hall188 (88 in 2023 too) registered families- 36 (36) regulars,. average 18 adults + 21 children. and one on Fridays at St Peter's Greenhill (both weekly in school term time). (Bl Monthly Messy Church at St Peter's Greenhill averaged 3040 people attending. (C) August Actlvlty Days on 4 Fridays at St Peter s Greenhill averaged 50 children + adults each week. A full copy of the Statistics for Mission return is available on request. Electoral Roll At the APCM on the 21 April 2024 the number of people on the St Martin's Electoral Roll was 92. There were three losses after the APCM so as at the 31st December 2024 the roll is confirmed at 89. The numbers on the roll following the rewriting of the roll in March 2025 will be announced at the APCM st Andrew Gough Electorol Roll Officer

PUBLIC BENEFIT The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD'S favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and 3 8arment of praise Instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendour The vision of our parish is stated within our mission statement: Our mission Is to share God's love and to grow as God's people We are re istered with the Charl Commlsslon the Public Benefit" and are re uir virtue of the fact that we "Advance Rell lon for to state our alrns in their terms as below Encouraglng and facllltating the practlce of Chrlstianlty by existing followers and seekers. Place ot worship. Including: For the practice of Christian faith, the provlsion and maintenance of two buildings, and adjoining hall and meeting rooms used for related activities, e.g. reliBiOUS instruction for children. The conducting of religious ceremonies, e.g. Eucharist, Baptism, Weddings, Blessings and Funerals. The maintenance of two public churchyards with one 8arden of remembrance and war memorial. Provision of Public Worship throughout the year as well as at tlmes of national importance {Remembrancel. Bereavement care, prayers, visits and worship. The provision and maintenance of Christian devotional artefacts and item5 used in religious services. Maintaining a grade one ancient building for the nation. Ralsln£ awareness and understandlng of religious beliets and prartlces, Includlng: Advancing the Christian faith. Providing a Christian resource for the community (information, teaching and library). Promoting and providing the study of Christian teaching, practice and scripture. Supporting schools and other educational establishments, Including three theological training colleges (student placements), which provide education in accordance with the principles and practices of the religion. Support the Diocese in the provision of ministry and Diocesan services through payment of the Diocesan share. Working with {worship, education, pastoral care) and governance of our two church schools in Herne. Encouragement and worship in one Community Primary School and also our Secondary School. 10

Religious devotional acts, Including: Visiting the sick and administering the sacraments to the sick and dying. Missionary and outreach work, Jncluding". The provision of chaplaincy seniices. for example, to Strode Park, Canterbury and District Scouting and Canterbury Cathedral). Hospital visiting. The provision of pastoral care to residential and domiciliary homes. Cultural and community activities provided in the place of worship and in the buildings attached, e.g., community facilities, community care, toddlers, and community Cafe. Work for reconciliation, building community and peace across the parish. Rellgious communication, Includlng: Sermons, talks, meetings and conferences and the provision of religious material via the internet website. Retreat and pilgrimage, including: A place for short and day retreats. Advancing rellglon generally Including: Charitable 8iving to many different peoples in need, both near and far, {e.g., Help for Heroes, Christian Aid, Crisis, Children's Society, Catching Lives, Seafarerfs Mission etc.) Seeking to safeguard creation through moral use of resources and the ways we manage our graveyards. These aims are fulfilled as evidenced in the reports that follow. Signed.. Revd. Chris Carnaby- Denyer and a Church Warden Date; 71k Iw d L.￿S- 11

Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting held on Sunday 21 Aprll 2024 at 11.15am at St Peter's Church. Greenhill. st THE PARISH OF ST MARTIN'S HERNE WITH ST PETER'S GREENHILL Together we seek God Our mission is to share God's love and to grow as God's people THE ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING To be held in St Peterfs Church Greenhill on Sunday 21st April 2024 at 11.00 am or as soon thereafter AGENDA as finall reed at the Annual meetin blu amendments Welcome, openlng prayers and apologies for absence PCC Secretary's Introduction to the adoption of proxy votlng and the Deputy Church Wardens Scheme and why these were considered necessary and why the agenda needed to be amended to take into account these matter The Vest Meetin Partl l. Apologies for absence 2. Adoption of proposal for Proxy votin8 proxy votes received Adoption of the Deputy Church Wardens Scheme Minutes of the Vestry meeting held on Sunday, 16 April 2023 6 Matters arising from the minutes ? Election of churchwardens (two) th Part2 The Annual Meetln 19. Apologies and procedures 20. Church Information and activities of the Parish generally (for information) 21. Minutes of the Annual Meeting held on Sunday, 16 April 2023 22. Matters arising from minutes Toplcs in blue were agreed at the APCM as amendments to the origlnal published agenda 12

Mandatory reports required under the Church Representation rules 2020 23. Lay reader's report in the vacancy 24. Churchwarden's report 25. Electoral Roll Report with oral update on the numbers on the roll a5 at the 21"April 2024 26. Annual Report on the Proceedings of the PCC during 2023 27. Financial Report forst Martin's and St Peterfs including approval of the 2023 accounts 28. Appointment of auditors or independent examiner for St Martin's and St Peter's. Proposing PG Lemon LLP of 22 to 26 Bank street Herne Bay Kent CT6 SEA 29. Fabric Committee Report 30. Report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod Mandatory elections 31. Election of Deborah Waller in her capacity as Lay readerto be an ex officio member of the PCC 32. Election of PCC members. To include Election of 2 Deputy Churchwardens b. Election of three PCC members lif nominations received) for 2024 to 2027 Ibeing two retiring and one vacancy remaining to be filled) NB Appointment of Sides people to be dealt with by the PCC at the next following PCC meeting 50 no election required General reports 33. Reports from church organisations August Activity days b. The Bellringers Children's and sunday School report d. The Choir e. The Churchyard maintenance team The Flower arrangers g. Gift Aid h. Little Fishes Messy Church Pastoral Matters k, Safeguarding Schools St Martin's Church Institute n. St Martins Readers and Intercessors o. St Martin's servers and chalice bearers p. St Martin's Tuesday Toddler Group q. Weddings report The Worship Band th 34. Date of first meeting of the new PCC.. Monday 28 April 2025 35. Any other busine55 36, The Blessing 13

Minutes of the Annual Parochi31 Church Council Meeting held on Sunday 21st April 2024 at 11.00am at St Peterf5 Church Greenhill. enda The meetin actuall commenced at 11.05 enin Pra er Deborah Waller welcomed those present and led those attending in an opening prayer olo Apologies had been received from Anne Ackland, Keith and Susan Record, Sarah Bingham, Sarah White, Tony Millard, Fiona Aneley, Linda Carter, Joan Ball, Philip Dixon and possibly Shirley Frost who might have to leave the meeting. Proxy voting forms had been received from Anne Ackland, Keith and Susan Record, Sarah Bingham, Fiona Aneley and Shirley Frost (who possibly might have to leave the meeting early}. Prelimina Issues resented b the PCC Secreta Andrew Gough as PCC secretary explained that two preliminary matters had to be agreed upon at the commencement of the meeting. This would affect the terms of the agenda which had been published in the APCM booklet. lal The Proposed Adoption of Proxy voting and why Andrew Gough confirmed that in the past proxy votes had been offered at annual meetin8S pa rticularly during the Covid crisis. The PCC had unanimously agreed that proxy votes should be permitted at this meeting but ultimately the final decision WOLrld be that of the members at this annual meeting as they had to agree the procedure and conduct of the meeting pursuant to the Church Representation Rules. Previously no proxy votes had been received but this time there were six proxy forms that had been given to the PCC secretary {as above). If proxyvoting was not permitted then these voters would be disenfranchised. Ib) the second issue that had to be considered was the status of the Deputy Churchwardens. An explanation of the problem that had arisen was given to the member5 present, A synopsis of . the issues is given as u briefing note to these minutes. A formal Deputy Church Wardens scheme had been agreed by the PCC and thi5 was presented to the members present. It was explained that if the scheme was not adopted then the position of the Deputy Churchwardens would be in doubt and effectively, they would only be sides people. This was not what had come to be expected by those holding the role. Theform of the Scheme is attached 14

The PCC secretary briefly went through the principal point5 of the scheme, It was agreed that the agenda would have to be revised to take into account the possible approval of the proxy votes and the deputy churchwarden scheme. Full minute5 and reports (including accounts) were available in hardcopy form if required by those present. The electoral roll was availa ble for inspection at the back of the church. e minutes WOU Id L d,11,'I e signe approve part I Ch31red by Deborah Waller The Vest Meetin Deborah Waller explained that historica Ily the vestry meetin8 would often be held privately but nowaday5 churches hold it in public as part of the full APCM. l. Apologies a5 above 2. Adoption of Proxy Voting Itwasa reed unanimousl that votog should bo I to the vestr mÉotin 2nd tho annual meetin rox @rm itted if r@ uired. This would 3. Proxies had been received Bs above 4. The Adoption of Deputy Church Wardens Scheme (see scheme attéiFied) The scheme wa5 unanimou51 ado ted b those resent. It was signed and dated by the chair of Ihe meeting and Priscilla Cox a5 churchwarden. It would be filed with tho Diocesa n Secretary and the Archbishops Council. 5. The minute5 olthe vestry meetin6 held on IGth April 2023 were agreed as a correct record. ProDoror tsnArpw finiieh. Seconder Sheila GouBh. Thoy wp.ro unanimously approved 6. There were no matters arising Election of Churchwardens (two positions vacantl Andrew Gough confirmed that three candidates had originally put their names forward for the two positions of church warden: Priscilla Cox. Christopher Exley and Wendy Dinley. The Ai¢rii¢<pH thp nnEitinn with Wendv who had put her

AccorOiriBly, two GandidaEég put thÉir names forward as Churchwarden. Priscilla Cox for re election Proposed by Anne Ackland Seconded by Hilary Burnage Robert Christopher Exley (Chris Exley} for re election Proposed by Susan Record Seconded by Richard Chant There being no other candidates and eve elected a5 Churchwardens for the comin one bein in favour both candidates were dul ear. Deborah Wa Iler thanked Priscilla and Chris Exley for their considerable work as Churchwardens during the year and also to John Bennett and Sarah Bingham for being such a willing and able support as Deputies. There being no other business the vestry meeting wa5 concluded. Chrls Exley thanked Andrew Gough for his research and identlfying the problem of the appointment of Deputy Churchwardens and offering a solution. Part 2 Chalred by Deborah Waller The Annual Meetin I, Apologies were given as above. 2. Church information as given in the APCM booklet was taken as read. Also, the general reports were taken as read th 3. Minutes of the annual meeting held on SundBy, 16 April 2023. The minutes were a unanimousl roved 4. There were no matters arising that would not be covered by the agenda. 5. The Lay Readerf5 verbal report was given, Deborah thanked everyone forthe sUPPOrt that she had received during the year. We had all worked well tOEether during the vacanry and dealt with all challenges admirably. We should all congratulate ourselves in our achievement ad we were now looking forward to welcoming our new Vicar Revd Chris Carnaby Denyer on the 30th July at his licensing. Whi15t Deborah wanted to thank everyone who helped and did so much for the church she

Priscila and Chris for their roles as church wardens. It was not easy to find presidents for our services but Priscilla seemed to be able to do this and we had the great excitement of welcoming the Archbishop to our church at the Christmas midnight eucharist. Thanks to them both for leading ordinary seNices on Sundays. Thanks to Sarah and John for the considerable help in running the church and the worship band Thanks to Andrew for his role as PCC secretary and Sheila as treasurer Thanks to all the members of the PCC for their contributions throughout the year Thanks to all who give so much help and time to the church and its activities as evidenced by the reports in the APCM booklet. 6. Andrew Gough In his capacity as electoral roll secretary confirmed that at the APCM in April 2023 there had been 90 members on the electoral roll. Subsequently following land including the latest revision in March 20241 five people had been added to the role but three had been removed. Accordingly, there were now ninety-two (92} members on the electoral roll which meant that there were still nine lay places available on the PCC. Three places were now available for nominations. He confirmed that the full electoral roll wa5 avallable for Inspection at the church during the APCM. There were no questions. He confirmed that after the APCM congregants could join the electoral roll at any time and not merely at the time of any revision before an APCM. However, next year the electoral roll would be completely rewritten (this was done every six years) and everybody would have to reapply. However, full notice of this would be given to the parishioners in good time so that preparation5 could be made. 7. The annual report of the proceedings of the PCC during 2023 was taken as read. There were no questions. Thanks were given to all the PCC members for their dedicated service over the year 8. The Churchwarden's Report was taken as read. Priscilla Cox and Chris Exley had nothing to add. 9. Sheila Gough, as treasurer, introduced the 2023 financial r@ports for St Martin's and St Peterf5 Greenhill. a. A full set of audited accounts is at the back of the APCM Report. b. Again, a challenging year for us. Our voluntary receipts which include our planned giving, collections at services and gift aid donations were all down on the previous year by over £9,500. Gift Aid is still a very useful Source of income for the church but there was a slight decrease in 2023 for various reasons. 17

Sadly, two of our congregation died who were both generous givers," two members left and we have not been able to make up the shortfall in their giving and being able to claim glft aid on those donations. e. Gift aid recovered last year was down by £1,2(X).00. f. There was an increase in fundraising thanks to the Funday Sunday organised by Sarah with the Parish Council. g. There was a reduction in the number of weddings, funerals and baptism5 which meant that our fees for those services were also reduced. h. Our total Income for the year was £129,011. Moving onto expenditure, as usual our biggest expense was the Parish Share to the DSocese. The church has paid this In full but again we had to use reserves of £18,578 plus funds from the Church Hall account. Our direct ministry expenses were down mainly due to the fact that we did not have an incumbent for 8 months of the year. k. Church running expenses includin8 Utilities, insurance and general maintenance increased by over £5,000 but we had to spend money on the church doors and also having one of the trees cut down in late Autumn. In respect of the two Halls, we had to use funds from St Martin's account to pay towards the Parish Share which meant that there was a deficit last year of just over £4,000. m. St Peterfs had a small surplus last year. n. Total expenses last year were £137,217 which meant that we had a deficlt of £8,206 in the general fund. o. All of our outreach projects, Mothers & Toddlers, Little Fishes and Messy Church continue to brin8 in funds although these are not included with the general fund but have their own count. p. Statement of Assets and Llabilities- at the end of the year we had £14,428 in unrestricted funds across our three accounts. q. Unrestricted funds in our CCLA investment account were £73,496 and restricted funds were £58,848 maklng a total of £132,344. Thanks, should be given to Wendy Dinley and Jean Dilnot for contlnulng to administer the rentals for the two halls and thanks also to Andrew Gough for administering the Gift Aid applications As a point of record John Bennett made those present aware of the fact that the rental agreement for the telecommunication mast would come to an end in 2031. This currently provided an income of £9000 per year (this could be indexed). So, we had to prepare ourselves forthe loss of that possible income in seven years, time. The accounts were proposed by Sheila Gough to be approved and seconded by Wendy Dlnley They were unanirnousl roved b those resent. Sheila Gough was specifically thanked for her hard work and diligence 10. Appointment of Auditors for St Martin's and St Peterfs Greenhill 18

Sheila Gough proposed that PG Lemon LLP of 22 to 26 Bank Street Herne Bay Kent CT6 SEA should be re- appointed as independent examinerforthe present financial year. b. This was seconded by Deborah Waller Those resent voted unanimousl for the rea ointment. 11. The Report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod was taken as read and there was nothing to add. Thanks were given to Priscilla Cox and Deborah Waller for their considerable service. 12. The Fabric Committee report was taken as read. There was nothing further to add. Thanks were given to the Committee members fortheir stewardship of the church buildings throughout the year. 13. Deborah Waller as licensed lay readerto the parish can be elected to the PCC in her own right as an ex officio member of the PCC There were no ob-ections to that ointment bein made and this was a reed, 14. Appointment of members of the PCC ElectlDn of Deputy Church wardens Following the adoption of the Deputy Church Warden scheme it was now possible to legitimately appoint two deputy churchwardens. Those nominated were John Bennett proposer Wendy Dinley seconded Sheila Bennett Sarah Bingham proposer John Bennett seconded by Sheila Bennett There being no other candidates for the positions John Bennett and Sarah Bingham were approved unanimously. Deborah Waller gave thanks to John Bennett and Sarah Bingham for being such willing and able supporters as Deputies during 2023. Two candidates had been nominated to take posltlon5 on the PCC. Richard Chant proposed by Philip Dixon seconded by Alan King Wendy Dinlev proposed by Andrew Gough seconded by Sheila Gough 19

There being no other candidates who now wished to put their names forward Richard Chant and Wend Dinle were dul ointed a5 members of the PCC Deborah Waller confirmed that the side5 people would be appointed at the PCC not at the APCM. Thanks were given to those who had been PCC members and to those continuing on the council 15. Deborah Waller then introduced the reports from the Church Organisations and Committees. They demonstrated the diversity of interests a nd responsibilities that people took on within the life of the church. She hoped that reading the reports would encourage people to join Some of the organisations or offer support. All reports were taken as read and there were no questions. Thanks were given to all persons who contributed to the life and administration of the church. We all worked hard as a team. 16. Deborah confirmed that the Parochial Church Council would be commissioned on a date to be agreed. The date of the first PCC meetin8 after the APCM will, however, be Monday 13th May at 7pm in the Ridley Room. 17. Any Other Business. Deborah Waller invited questions from the floor. John Bennett particularly welcomed Jean Dilnot to the annual meeting. She was still unable to get around readily after her accident. However, herability to get in and out of her house had been hugely improved because Peter Frost had built a wooden ramp for her to get to and from front door. Many thanks were given to Peter for his work. Andrew Gough as PCC secretary asked the annual meeting to confirm now if proxy voting would be permitted at the next annual meeting in 2025 if the PCC thought it appropriate. This would mean that proxy votes could be given and each donor of the proxy would know that his or her vote would be counted lif requiredl and they would not have to rely upon the members at that annual meeting agreeing to the proposal. This ro osal was unanimousl roved b those resent Chris Exley thanked Deborah Waller for all the hard work that she had put into her role as lay reader and particular presenting the church services. It was a considerable task and we should all be grateful for Deborah's sklll a nd dedication. 18. There being no further business the meeting was concluded and Deborah Waller led those present in the grace. The meeting concluded at 1150am 20

PCC Secretary's explanation to the annual meeting as to why the deputy Churchwarden scheme was required. Briefing note {not transcript) A question has been put to me by a member on the electoral roll for consideration at the annual meeting. This can be done under the Church Representation Rules 2022. The Question is 'At what point in the APCM are deputy churchwardens elected?" You may appreciate that the APCM falls into two parts. The vestry meeting (effectively a parishioners meeting) where churchwardens are elected and then the annual meeting where members of the PCC and representative5 of the deanery Synod etc are elected. I've looked back at earlier AP Cm's and it is clear that the deputy churchwardens were only ever appointed in the annual meeting and not at the vestry meeting. Revd Carol changed that pattern in 2018 and said that the deputy churchwardens should be elected at the vestry meeting. That seems odd given the difference between the two electoral rolls and that deputies are not holders of the bishop's office. The issue was questioned at the time but she said that this was the correct procedure. l assumed that thi5 was because there was some scheme registered at the Diocesan Registry setting out how and when deputy churchwardens were appointed and any other powers that they might have. That would have covered the point. Now that this question has been put again, I decided to refer the matter to the Diocesan Secretary. He ha5 informed me that there is no scheme registered which formally permits the appointment of deputy churchwardens nor explains what they do. Nor is there a District Church Council Scheme appointing deputy church wardens. This surprised me because, as the Diocesan Secretary says, it means that the appointment of a deputy churchwarden is an informal arrangement only. Moreover, unless the deputy Is also an elected member of the parochial church council {whether as a member of the PCC or elected in some other capacity) the deputy churchwarden does not have any voting rights. Nor is the deputy a member of the PCC by virtue of the position of deputy churchwarden. A deputy is only a member of the PCC if there is a formal scheme or District Church Council scheme in place. Otherwise, a deputy may be a member of the PCC only if he or she holds other elected positions. I have looked back at the minutes of earlierAPCM meetings before and after 2017 and there have been several instances over the years where deputy wardens have been elected but were never voted as members of the PCC nor were they ever co-opted to the PCC. Holders of the position may, at the invitation of the PCC address the PCC or else may have tasks to do but they would not have right to vote. I do not know whether they actual did vote, However, we have apparently been working on a false premise for many years. Clearly thi5 anomaly is unacceptable. It a Iso has to be corrected before Revd Ch ris takes up his ositinn. I pointed out to tho Diocosan Secret3ry that it is possible for the annual meetin8 to agree a scheme under rule M34 which formally provides for "The election or choice of one or two deputy churchwardens ...... deputie5 15 an ex officio member of the PCC." -and that the deputy or each the At this point Jean Dilnot said that when she wa5 appointed a deputy churchwarden, She wa5 told that she had no right to vote at the PCC. However, it is unclear how other holders of the p05t may have actod. Since 2018 deputies have voted at PCC meetings. 21

Such a scheme would bring legitimacy to a practice that has existed for many years. He agreed with me but took legal advice from the Diocesan Registrdr; she is a partner in a major firm of solicitors in Westminster that provides legal advice to the Diocese. She agrees that this is the best way forward and indeed drafted a simple scheme to cover the position. A draft of that scheme has been distributed to the meeting today (see attached), I have amended to cover our particular requiremonts. The terms of the scheme also state when the churchwardens are elected Iputling the voting as part of the annual meeting which I think is correct under rule M34) and grants each deputy PCC membership. So, in order to rectify the position as PCC secretary I propose that this scheme be adopted immediately and to apply at thi5 meeting. This proposal is designed to get us out of a legal and administrative confusion in the simplest way possible and to preserve the status quo. DRAFf SCHEME asa roved and sl ned off at the meetin The Pzrish of Heme in the Diocese of Canterbury Scheme for Deputy Churchwardens Made pursuant to Section B of the Model Rules Church Representation Rules 2020 Whereas,. al There are two or more churches or buildings licensed for public worship in the parish of Herne Ithe Parish) in Ihe benefice of Herne in Ihe Diocese of Canterbury bl The Parochial Church Council of the Parish wishes to make a scheme for the election of representatives of the laity to the PCC in a way that is intended to make duo provision for the representation of the congregation of each church or building cl The Annual Parochial Church Meeting (°the Annual Meeting") of the Parish, therefore in exercise of the powers conferred by Section B (paragraph M34111,1211al, Ibl and Icll of the Model Rule5 contained in the Church Representation Rules 20201"CRR"I, hereby makes the following scheme,. which shall come Into effect imfflediately,, l. The Annual Meeting each year shall elect two deputy churchwardens (°the Deputy Churchwardens'l as representatives of the churches of St Martin's Herne and St Peter Greenhill, 2, A Deputy Churchwarden will, subject to paragraph 6 below, hold office for the annual period that begins with the conclusion of the Annual Meeting at which the person was elected and which ends at the conclusion of the Annual meeting following their election, unless they are re- elected for 2 subsequent term of office. 22

1. The Deputy Churchwardens shall exercise such functions relating to the churches of St Martin's Herne and St Peter Greenhill as the Vicar or Priest in charge of the parish (the Incumbent) and the churchwardens of the Parish may from time to time direct.
2. The Deputy Churchwardens shall be ex officio members of the PCC with voting rights.
3. Only persons who are not disqualified from being chosen for the office of churchwarden under the Churchwardens Measure 2001 may be elected as Deputy ChurchwardeNs. 6, A Deputy Churchwarden who during their term of office becomes disqualified from holding office as a churchwarden under the Churchwardens Measure 2001 ceases to be a Deputy Churchwarden on the date on which such disqualification takes place. 7, In accordance with CRR M34151, a copy of this scheme will be filed in the diocesan registry and sent to the secretary of the Archbishop's Council and standing committee. Signed on behalf of the Parochial Church Council of Herne,, ILSI Deborah Waller.....-...................,.......... Chair Name ILSI Prisci Ila Cox , Churchwarden Name Passed at the Annual Meeting of the Parish For Unanimous Against Dated.. The 2151 day of April 2024 23

THE APCM REPORTS FOR 2024 Priest in Char e's Annual 2024 re ort for St Martin-in-Herne with St Peterfs Greenhill It is such a joy to write my first APCM report as your new Priest-in-charge, It fee15 like the first seven months have whizzed byl Thank you forwelcoming me, a5 well as Sophie and all the family, into the heart of the church community. Needless to say, as we look back on 2024, there is a great chunk of the year that is time "BC" "Before Chris"! I hope that all those who ensured the ministry and mission at St Martin's and St Peterfs continued during the interregnum, and those involved in appointing a new priest for the parish, feel that their hard work and dedication 15 very much appreciated. So, I must begin with a huge thanks especially to the Wardens, Priscilla and Chris, and the Deputy Wardens, John and Sarah, as well as our Reader, Deborah. My thanks go particularly to Chris Exley as he steps down as Church Warden for new adventures ahead. One thing I have learned as I settled into the parish, is that there are so many dedicated volunteers who contribute in a myriad of way5 to the life, ministry and mission of our two churches and the communities we serve: to each one of you, thank you. 15neaked across before we moved to enjoy the Herne Community Fun Day- what 3 fantastic event enjoyed by so many from the community and which spoke (with the church very visible in orange "Church Team" T-5hirtsl of our care and involvement in the place we are called to be and to serve. Well done, and thank you (with a special thanks to Sarah and herteaml. Not long after I was licensed here as Priest-in-charge, it was soon a joyful summer of Spending Fridays at 5t Peter's for the Activity Days: free fun activities for families, whereby I found myself frequently supervising la nd trying out l) the bouncy castle. What a great gift we were able to offer local families again, with thanks to all the team involved, The summer gave way to a new school year, and we were able to welcome over 110 people to join our Back-to-school service, with children (and a headteacherl) receiving a blessing for the year ahead. This set a pattern for our first Sunday service, with a focus on inviting families back to the all- age seNice each month with a special focus for our worship, the next being a joyful Harvest celebration. In December, thi5 first Sunday service featured a Christingle led by Worship Leaders fro m Herne Junior School with the asslstance of Denise Parrett at the school, working alongside Deborah Waller, and attended by 165 people. I was told that Herne marked Remembrance in a big way: what a gathering it was to behold as around 500 people came together in remembering those in the community who gave their live in service, as well a5 to pray for peace in our world today. Many thanks to CllrAlan Marsh for organising the road c105ure and his 5UPPOrt In thls flnal year of hls involvement. After arriving in the summer, it seemed that Christma5 was suddenly upon me. Advent began with a wonderful Christmas Tree Festival that saw St Martin's become a winter wonderland of beautifully decorated trees a5 the community came together to take on the challenge to dress a tree or to come and support the event. It was a great launch of the festive sea50n, with singing, refreshments and even Father Christmas. Many thanks to all involved, particularly Sarah Binsham and Deboreh Waller, and to Vincent Nurseries for the generous donation of the tree5. The start of Advent also saw the annual Memorial Carols, Wlth over 200 people coming together to remember those we miss 24

especially at this time of year, again supported and facilitated by the generous team at Welch'5. The huge tree looked marvellous (thanks to the team who wrestled it into place) and many stars were added to it with the names of loved ones right up to the end of epiphany. Christmas was a wonderful time for me to really feel welcomed into the heart of the community and the church here. Singing carols under the yew tree was a fantastic way to begin to celebrate the season and the message of Christmas, with a warm cup of mulled wine in hand, with thanks to all who made this possible. We had a total Christmas Eve/Day attendance in church of 917 (compared to 740 in 2023). The introduction of a 5:30pm Christmas Eve Carol Service received positive feedback and a huge attendance, along with the popular Nativity (thanks again to all the team involved and our brilliant young attorsl. It made me smile to see that in Herne, Babyjesus gets his own parking Space! ! The increased attendance at events and services may have been a result of all the effort in delivering 5000 Christmas Cards to the communities we serve, with an invitation to join all on offer. Well done and thank you to all the delivers, and to John Bennett masterminding all the rounds. As I mention services, it is of note that our average attendance was up on the year previous year even in a time of interregnum (average attendance of adults was 55 in 2024, compared to 45 in 20231. It is particularly pleasing that attendance had increased over a year that included the vaca ncy, and again much appreciation is given to all who made this happen by leading services, especially our Reader, Deborah. Thanks also to Chris Exley for also sharing the leading of 8am services with Deborah. The service pattern established before the interregnum was reviewed and continued with a weekly 8am BCP Communion, an all-age first Sunday sewice, a 2, and 4th Sunday Communion and the service at St Peter's became "Sausage Sarnie Sunday". There were also special evening services on the first Sunday linked to festiva Is a nd occasions in the ch u rch year, such as 'Sing Harvest" A weekly midweek Communion on Wednesdays at 9.'15am wa5 also Introduced. Having mentioned some of the attendance data, I must also point out that earlier I the year IBCII, Easter SeNices had a total attendance of 122 people, compared to 93 in 2023. Beyond Sundays, Messy Church continued to welcome and offer a different format of church for families each month on a Saturday (thanks to the hard-working team), and our toddlers groups met each week in term-time: on Tuesdays at Herne and Fridays in St Peter's. Now both toddler groups are called 'Little Fishes" we look forward to celebrating 50 years of the toddlergroup in Herne in 2025. At St Peterfs, the weekly Tuesday morning café welcomed the community in for refreshment5 and a chat- as well as the excitement of the raffle. The PCC had an away day in November, which was an opportunity to reflect and pray on what good thing5 were going on in the parish and what we might like to build on. The theme was'looking at the garden with God" and we thought about our ministry and mission through this metaphor: what things were growing well, what might need some nurturing, what may perhaps need pruning, how do we look after the gardener5? This ha5 informed our mission action planning process, where we are contin u ing into 2025 to build a clear vision for the future, a nd we invite you to support that with yOL(r prayers and participation, as well as financial support to enable plans to come to fruition and to grow the church numerically and spiritually. We plan to have a vision for growth that you are invited to buy into ready for later in 2025. 25

Our school's ministry 15 a real strength, with close relationships between St Martin's and the infant and junior schools in Herne. It wa5 good to welcome both schools into the church for special services throughout the year, and to offer the space for the Red Zebra drop-in to give support and advice to parents, Collective Worship has been led by members from the church a5 well as vi51ting clergy in the interregnum, and Since September I have been able to share this with Deborah. After taking up post here, I have been able to establish links with the newly renamed Thornden Wood School in Greenhlll and led assemblies there, as well as having been invited at the end of 2024 to explore a Governor role at Herne Bay High School (which I have taken up in 2025). Alongside a number of dedicated members of our church community, I serve as a Governor of Herne Infant and Herne Junior School. Lots of work has been done in both schools in partnership with the church preparing ready for SIAMS (the inspection framework for Church of England and Methodist schools in England) that took place in 2025. We have seen many celebrations of speclal life events at St Martin's over 2024, with 18 baptisms, 4 weddings and 5 funeral services. Our church family has seen 12 adult5 and 2 children recorded asjoining the worshipping community in 2024 (compared to 8 adults and 2 children in 20231, however we have been pleased to see many familiar and new faces at services in the latter part of the year as people have come back to the church. What a great year in the life of St Martin's and St Pete15, and the communities we serve, and we look forward to so much more to come in 2025. With blessings Revd Chri5 Carnt7by- Denyer March 2025 26

REPORTS REQUIRED UNDER THE CHURCH REPRESENTATION RULES 2024 The Church wardens APCM re ort for 2024 Have you heard? We've got a new Vicarl (Not too much exuberant cheering please, because we still have a job to do.}- Technica Ily his correct title is Priest in Charge of course. Yes, it's true. Our vacancy is over, we have survived pretty well, and now we are beginning to get to know Revd. Chris, to learn his ways and to look forward to his enthusiastic and insightful new ideas. I n referring to the end of the vacancy (back in J uly, in case anyone hadn't noticed), it is importa nt that we pay tribute to all those people who had any part in keeping things going. There are far too many to name, but we acknowledge everyone who helped in any way to maintain 'church' as close to normal as possible. That said however, we must not rest on our laurels. Since Revd. Chris arrived, we have seen increasing numbers of people attending church, which is encouraging land on looking at the church registers around Christmas, there was a period of three days when, including our two Schools, well over 1000 people came through the church doors), but having more people means we can spread the load. I therefore commend Revd. Chris Job Vacancies, leaflet to everyone. It doesn't matter how small the task, your help counts, so offer up a little prayer, and as Isaiah Said, say'Here I am Lord, send melj Since July, when Revd. Chris arrived, we have begun to get to know him, we have seen a few new initiatives- the return of the 8.00 service to Communion every week, the return of the Mld-week Communion on Wednesdays, a re-vitalising of the monthly service at St. Peters (where attendance ha5 also increased), There is more to come, and I repeat my remarks from a few weeks ago, when I referred to the words of the late David Wat50n 'For what has been, thank you, and for what is to come-yes Pleasel Unfortunately, this past year has not been all good news. As can be seen from Sheila Gough's Financial Report, we are not in the best state of health, partly because of the cost of maintaining the ancient buildin8 where we come together each week, the cost of heating and lighting, and the ever- increasing amount we have to pay to the diocese. While many of us perhaps do not understand our financial obligations, we must commend Sheila for her work over a good manyyears. In mentioning the cost of maintenance, I should say something about the Fabric Committee which operates under the guidance of Priscilla Cox. Formally the Churchwardens have the care of the Church's fabric as part of their authority from the Bishop, but the work of this committee should be recognised, as they face a constant battle with repairs to the structure of the buildings, the churchyard. It never fails to surprise me that we achieve as much as we do through'l know a man who can.....1055ist with whatever the task is, often at minimal c05t to the church). There are times when we have to go through the proper authorities, such as recently, when we were required to have our 5-yearly lor Quinquenniall inspection bythe Architect, the results of which could impact our finances from now until the next report 15 due in 2029, as we works through the repairs identified. The Fabric Committee report will tell us more. And so, to conclude the Churchwardens report, I say again, thank you for all you do for St. Martin's and St. Peter's. Please carry on doing it, and try to encourage a few more to join you. As we look forward to Revd. Chris, developing ministry in our busy and growing parish, pray for him, encourage 27

him, and travel the journey of faith with him, remembering some words from the old hymn, 'Loving Shepherd of thy sheep., 'Where thou leadest, I would go. Chris Exley & Priscilla Cox Churchwardens Morch 2025 NB the churchwarden'5 report on the fabric of the church is given by the Fabric Committee and acknowledged as such. ort from the Electoral Roll Secreta as at 31 December 2024 At the APCM in April 2024 there were 92 members on the electoral Roll. As at December 312024 we had 89 member5 on the roll as three had left the parish. No complete revision had taken place. The numbers on the roll following the January 2025 complete re-writing/republication of the roll will be given orally at the APCM and that will determine the number of PCC representatives to be elected. Andrew Gough, Electoral Roll Secretary March 2025 An annual re ort on the roceedin s of the Parochial Church Council durin 2024 Andrew Gough continued to act a5 PCC secretary for the year. There have been seven meetings during the year all bein8 face-to-face meetings. We missed a meeting in March 2024 as this was delayed to April to finalise the arrangements for the APCM due to be held that month. Meetings in July and August were postponed to enable Revd Chris to review PCC meetings during the remainder of the year There Is guidance for the conduct of online and if votes are taken, then those voting must be present at the on line the Meeting itself. On line Zoom meetings are usually recorded with the consent of the participants. The recording 15 expunged once the minutes have been approved at a PCC meeting. Also, emergency business has been conducted online by on line correspondence. This is again permitted pursuant to the Church Representation Rules 2020 (now 20241. The PCC has continued to conduct it5 busine55 efficiently and thanks must go to all PCC Members. They always read the agenda and supporting documents lor so they tell the PCC Secretary) and debate all issue5 Wlth much consideration, politely and with good humour. We prefer face to face meetings as this onables debate to be undertaken fully and we usually have cake at the refreshment break which is much appreciated! All minutes {unless confidentiall are available for inspection from the PCC secretary. The following is a summary of the principal business conducted 28

l. Overseeing the recruitment process for the new incumbent and the interview process and the licensing service 2. Continuing to review and approve the work of the Fabric Committee especially the potholes in the car parking spaces at St Martins and car parking at St Peterfs Church (see separate report}. 3. Arranging the quinquennial survey inspection of St Martin's Church 4. Formally appointing PC Lemon LLP as the independent examiner for the annual accounts 5. Approving the 2023 accounts (the 2024 account5 are approved at a PCC meeting in March 2025 for presentation to the APCM in 20251 6. Considering the arrangements for the APCM in April 2024 (arrangements for the 2025 APCM a re fina lised in February/March 20251 7. Following the October 2019 APCM resolution to give the PCC authority to arrange postal voting at an APCM the PCC resolved not to adopt postal voting at the APCM in 2024 la discretion that was permitted by the APCM resolution). Reviewing, at the May PCC meeting, the minutes of the APCM on 21" April 2024 which were considered to be accurate and confirming thatthese could be submitted to the annual meeting in April 2025 for approva I 9. Agreeing the appointment of all church officers and the appointment of chairpersons to the various committees 10. Pledged Ha rvest co Ilection to the work of Catching Lives (for the homeless in Canterbury) and the local food bank. 11. Arranging a PCC away day to reflect on the role of the PCC and a strategy for the church 12. Agreeing to open St Ma rtin's church to the public at given times if possible 13. Resolving that the collection from the Carol Service around the yew tree would be for Porchlight a nd that from the Christingle Service to go to the Children's Society. All other collections forthe church funds generally 14. Receiving safeguarding reports from Anne Ackland as safeguarding officer. See resolution and further declaration below. 15. Receiving updates on the church schools 16. Approving a revised welcome pack to be given to new residents at the new estates 17. Discussing potential repairs to the Church Organ, costings and alternatives to the pipe organ. Agreeing an immediate repair. 18. Passing the following formal resol utions Accepting the appointment of Anne Ackland as the new safeguarding officer and to apply the a pproved pa rish safeguarding statement (July 20241 b. Approving the appointment of sides person5 to assist at church services c. Appointing Andrew Gough as a Foundation Governor to Herne Church of England Juniorschool The PCC confirms that it has com plied with section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 with regard to its duty to follow the House of Bishops Euidance on safe8uardin8 children and vulnerable adults. The Parish Safeguarding Statement is available for inspection and 15 on the Church website. There is a separate report on safeguarding. Andrew Gough, PCC Secretary February 2025 Financial Review for 2024 These account5 are prepared on a 'Receipts and Payments" basis. 29

Please see the annexe with the detailed Financial Statements. Some points to note.. - l. We received a legacy of £40,000 from the Estate of the late Lydia Quilty. 2. There was an increase in our planned giving of £444. 3. Collections at services saw a slight increase of £19. 4. Gift aid recovered wa5 down on last year, but this figure does not include the Gift Aid received for December 2024. 5, Voluntary receipt5 increased by £9,948 thi5 increase 15 due to an anonymous donation of £10,000. 6. Fund raising events last year Sncluded, Community Funday which made a profit of £2,728 7. Wine & Wisdom made a profit of £847. 8. Christmas Fair made a profit of £706 and the Christmas Tree Festival raised £267 Both St Martin's and St Peterf5 halls continue to pay their way and the income from St Martin's Hall helps us to contribute towards the Parish Share. Wlth regard to expenses, we were able to pay our Parish Share in full but only by using £27,301 from our reserves and a further £16,154 from the hall account, We still have outstanding Parish Share of £43,215 for the years 2017118 and 21. Direct Minlstry expenses increased by £541. Church running expenses saw an increase In our insurance premium but a decrease in our utllities. We paid for the repairs to the church organ and funds of £14,244 came from our reserve account to enable that repair to take place. The net result for the year saw a small surplus of £102 on unrestricted funds. The interest earned on our CCLA investments over the year amounted to £7,023. I would like to thank Andrew Gough for continuing to administerthe Gift Aid emoluments lincluding making the claim for rebate of tax); his help is invaluable to me. Reserves Polic We do not currently have a reserves policy. This means keeping a certain amount of funds in the bank account ring fenced to cover emergency situations for particular projects or future work. We do however have a CCLA Reserves account which currently has a balance of £91,524. It 15 our policy to invest our funds wlth the CBF Church of England Deposit Fund. Sheilo Gough, Tre05urer March 2025 30

Re ort from the Fabric Committee for 2024 on the condition of the church buildin s This forms the Churchwarden's Report on the Fabric of the Church Buildings pursuant to section 50 of the Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction and Care of Churches Measure 2018 The Fabric Committee has continued to meet regularly and plan and discuss concerns with the fabric at St. Martin's, St Peter's and the Herne church hall. Many items are of regular maintenance such as everyday repairs and clearing of gutters. We are extremely fortunate to have a number of members of the congregation who are able to competently carry out many of these tasks and save us from having to engage loca I contractors. A number of projects that we hoped to complete during the year were delayed due to poor weather conditions, and with any large projects we are mindful of the costs, and the shortage of available funds. Tasks that were completed included the easing of outside doors and repairs to some guttering at St Martin's, and also the relaying of some flagstone5 that had been lifted by tree roots. A drone inspection of the roof was carried out and any area5 of concern noted. Some potholes outside the lychgate were repaired to prevent accidents to cars and pedestrians, An excellent handrail was attached to the door on the screen between the Lady Chapel and the chancel. On-going project5 at St, Martlns include the possibility of extending the hearing loop a nd the speaker system to cover the chancel and the back of the nave, improvements to storage, and the security of a garden shed and storage of mowers etc. The current shed has been painted with anti-vandal paint to deter intruders. At St Peter's Steve King, the caretaker, continues to carry out minor repairs and maintain the grounds, and members of the fabric committee helped cut back overgrown trees in the land beside the church. The uneven state of the drive has caused concern and it is hoped that raking the gravel will help ease the problem. The children's slide wa5 dismantled and repaired. Cupboards will be built in the meeting room beside the kitchen to improve storage and to help tidy the vestry. A quinquennial inspection of St. Martin's in the autumn and the architect's reportwill help determine the projects that need to be addressed in the near future. Priscill(J Cox (andfor churchwarden Chris Exley) th 13 March 2025 A Re ort on the 2024 roceedin s of the Deane nod Members of the deanery met in February and firstly considered the function of the deanery and the format of future meetings. Meetings provide an opportunity for members to get to know others better and to share issues of particular concern in their parishes. Some meeting5 will be closed to elected members only while others will offer an open invitation to people to join to listen to speakers or join in d￿ScuSsion and sha re initiatives. In February discussion was still ta king place a bout the appointment of a new incumbent to our parish. Members ofthe Deanery Mission and Ministry Committee IDMMC} were concerned that they had not been included in some discussions. Nearly all churches in the dea nery struggle to pay their parish sha re, which is ca Iculated in part accord ing to 31

the number of paid clergy in the deanery. The DMMC tabled a motion for diocesan synod stating that deaneries need to be consulted before clergy appointments are made in that deanery. At the meeting in June Revd. Lindsey Yates, Generous Giving Adviser for the diocese, shared ideas and advice about encouraging generous giving stressing that giving blesses the donor as well as the recipient, and should be central to everything. In September members of the deanery were Invited to join evensong in the cathedral, and refreshments in the Chapter House after the service provided an opportunity to meet together. Also, in September a deanery roadshow lead by the archdeacon and Blshop Rose vlsited Herne Bay and considered ways of reaching out to people and furthering the mission of the church. The dioceso's target is'Three Bold Outcomes, for every church to show signs of revitalisation, to double the numberof children and young people, and for200 new Christian communities to be established. We were encouraged to do a few things well and to let everyone know our priorities. The meeting in October began with an explanation of the Week of Accompanied Prayer initiative when church members commit to spending time in prayer during a particular week, with spiritual help from visiting mentors. The meeting also included a discussion on our churches, progress with work on the Three Bold Outcomes. At each meeting eco-church has been an item, sharing ideas, and in Octoberwe saw a short film about an eco-church in Norfolk. Safeguarding has also been an important item at meetings with advice on training, and the need for a national audit for which all churches will be checked. Priscilla Cox and Deboroh Woller Deanery representatives March 2025 32

GENERAL REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS There is no report specifically on communications and publicity but during the year much has devolved to communications on line and the third edition of the church directory has proved invaluable. Au ust Activit Da The activity days this year were a great success. Although quieter than usual this year, we welcomed lots of families for all or part of the days and we provided a wide range of activities suitable for a broad ra nge of guests. These days were initia Ily designed to capture and help fatnilies that struggle with the cost of entertaining their young families in an entertaining and safe wayfor 6 weeks over the summer holidays, and to oase the loneliness and parenting pressure for the carers over this break. It was clear that this was still a valid facility that still met these criteria and was enjoyed by These days take a large commitment from our congregation both in planning a5 well as in volunteering for the days to make the facil ity a succes5, a nd I cannot thank you all enough for stepping forward to help with crafts, bouncy castle, refreshments and all of the other jobs that you so wonderfully engaged in to offer such a positive environment for our families over the summer break. You are amazin8, thank youl Sarah Bingham March 2025 Bellrin ers Re ort for 2024 The be115 are rung on Sunday for services, usually starting at 9.30am and for other additional services during the year, including Christmas Midnight Communion. We joined other towers across the country ringing for the D Day anniversary seNi¢e on the 6th June 2024 at 6.30pm and for the Deanery Confirmation service that evening. th We rang for the licensing of the Revd. Chris Carnaby-Denyer to the parish on the 30 July 2024 to welcome him and hi5 family. The ringers were very pleased that he came to visit us at our practice the following evening and for h is subsequent visits (especially his Christmas visit when he brought chocolates, a lovely surprise). The ringers practice on Wednesday evenings, when we ring a variety of methods in addition to rounds and call changes. Visitin8 ringers come to join us while on holiday and we regularly have ringers from other towers in East Kent at practices each week, including a number of ringer5 who live in Herne Bay but ring at other towers on Sundays Itheir Sunday morning service ringing times are the same as ours). Our newest recruit is now ringing regularly for services and weddings, and is learning method ringing, starting with plain hunt. The bells were rung for weddings during the year lin March 2024, June 2024, and Auglsst 202412024 The ringers continue to attend meetings of the Canterbury District of the Kent County Association of Change Ringers which are held on the second Saturday of each month, and District practices, a150 usually held on a Saturday. We hosted a Surprise Major practice on Saturday 19 October 2024, 33

which wa5 well attended and successful. Most of our ringers are members of the KCACR. Another member of our band was elected a5 a memberthis year. Members of our band ring regularly at local towers including Chislet and often join ringers at Sturry and Birchington. A visiting band of ringers from St Margareys, Rochester rang at 5t Martin's on Saturday 26th October 2024 during their ringing outing to towers in the area. Many of the ringers, and non-ringing friends and family who were on the outing with them were interested in the history of the church and bells. All the visiting ringers enjoyed their ring as our bells are a very fine ring of eight bells. Other ringing has included a quarter peal (ringing continuously for 45 minute5 for 1260 different orders of the bells) in August 2024. The ringers welcome anyone who is interested in learning about ringing or who wants to learn to ring to come and visit us in the tower Susan and Keith Record Murch 2025 Chlldren's and Sunda School re ort for 2024 Children have continued to be welcomed at every Sunday service with shared table activitie5 on the first and third Sundays, at St. Martin's and St. Peterfs churches respectively. These have ranged from single poster type of words and pictures (usually displayed on the church d isplay boa rds afterwards) to individua l items such as puppets which may be taken home. All the activities are linked with the lectionary and/or theme for the service by regular communication with those leading the services. Grateful thanks to Shirley Frost and her creativity in organising these activities and providing the resources with support from Anne Post. On the second and fourth Sundays and accasional fifth Sundays during term-time children are welcomed to the Ridley Room where they follow the ROOTS programme of learning which is again linked with the lectionary and service patterns throughout the church year. Anne Post supported by Shirley Frost continue in the leadership of these sessions. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Jamie Wraight for all of his past 5UPPOrt in these session5 and offer prayerful support for him as he takes a break from this role. Each Sunday service has a regular slot before the final hymn or song where the children are invited to come out to the front of the church and share their learningi this may involve explaining what they have learnt to the congregation orjust simply demonstrating their creations after which the youngsters lead the congregation in a short appropriate prayer. On some Sundays, children also join whoever 15 leading worship during the reflection. The children's presence a Iways brings great pleasure and often some very interesting comments are made which provide worshipper5 With a chance for an alternative reflection. We are all very inspired by the families who take part and grateful for their encouragement of the children that they bring along and pleased to see a number of new faces. Deboraki Waller March 2024 The Choir Re ort for 2024 The choir has continued to sing for Sunday morning services, and for additional services. These th included an Evening seNice forcandlemas on Sunday4 February 2024, Holy Communion on Ash Wednesday. Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. 34

The deanery Confirmation service was on Thursday 6 June 2024 and there was an evening service th on Sunday 16 June 2024. th The Licensing service for Revd. Chris Carnaby-Denyer and his family was on Tuesday 30 July 2024. There was an evening Harvest service on Sunday 6 October 2024 again with hymns, anthems and readi ngs. The choir5ang at weddings at St Martin's church during the year {in March, June and August September 2024). The choir also sang at funerals lin February and March 20241. The Remembrance Sunday service in St Martin's church included hymns and an anthem followed by the Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial in the churchyard. The Memorial carol seNice was at the beginning of December 2024, including well known carols {with descants) and the choir sang Christmas anthems whilst stars were placed on the Christmas tree. The choir sang carols, Wlth descants, at the Nine Lessons and Carols service, and anthems which included a new setting of "In the bleak mid-winterf, composed by Chris Exley. Christmas anthems were sung on Christmas Eve during Communion, togetherwith Christmas carols. One of our longstanding choir members moved away to be with herfamily during the year and she is missed. Other choir members have joined lor rejoined) during the year and an additional singer has joined for some services when he can. Any singers, or those who would like to learn are most welcome to come along. Choir practice5 are on Thursday evenings in St Martin's church/ The choir has again put in much time and effort learning new pieces and rehearsing anthems in the repertoire to sing during services, including pieces composed by, or arranged by, our'in house" composer and arranger. Teams includ ing choir members, with frie nds Susan Record March 2025 The Church ard Team re ort for 2024 The Church yard gardening team have been working very hard on malntenance of the Church yard for both nature and all the humans that use it. Our dead hedge at the back of the churchyard is now home to a family of hedgehogs a5 well as thousands of insects and mini beasts. We keep adding to our hedge every time we weed or prune back. We are creating another longer hedge to divide the public right of way footpath and the churchyard as well and this is blending in with its surroundings. We now feel that we are nearly on top of everything and not chasing our tails each time. This coming year we will be looking at clearing the brambles around the grave stones that are near the back of the churchyard and making them more accessible, but this is a huge task and maytake a couple of years to complete, so please bare with us. There 15 always lots to do and at the beginning of the year we spend all ourtime preparing and clearing for when everything blooms in the Spring and Summer. We're getting there and our little team are always looking for more helpers. 35

If you would like to join us please contact Claire at claire.sta mac.com We meet the first Saturday and the 3rd Wednesday of every month (except January because irs just too coldl from 10am-noon. Whatever you can do will be perfect. The extra incentive for coming on Saturday is that we stop for a short while to have a hot drink and cake. Don't forget your thermals, wellybobs, waterproofs (especially during the winter months) and any basic tools like a trowel and fark, whatever you have. No experience necessary. A huge thank you to everyone who helps It's greatly appreciated. Clair Stay, Churchyard teum February 2025 Communi Cafe Community Café has met at St Peterfs every Tuesday morning throughout the year. A loyal group of people enjoy coming together to chat and share their news and views. The Community Warden is a regula r visitor and is ava ilable to hear any local issues that concern people, and there have been occasiona I visits from the local policeman who has special responslbility for Greenhill. Everyone is pleased that Revd. Chris is a Iso able to join us once a fortnight. At Christmas time we all enjoyed having lunch together in The Heron In Station Road. PriscillJ Cox Morch 2025 The Flower Arran ers re ort for 2024 This past year we have managed to have floral displays in church and for the main event5 of Easter, Harvest Festival and Christmas keeping cost5 as low as we can. We were not called upon for any flowers for the weddings that took place. We a re sad ly getting fewer and age a nd illness is catching up with us all. I have a couple of ladies who help out when they can but we could do with some more willing hands. Liz Sellen, Flower arranger February 2025 Gift Aid Matters for 2024 Gift Aid continues to be a very helpful contribution to the church finances. Pay your income tax and the Church can get a 25% bonus on any donations thatyou make. A5 at the 31, December 2024 we still had 41 parties who have each made a Gift Aid declaration and also pledged their payment5. Regrettably this has significantly decreased from 2022 when we had 54 gift aid pledges. If you are a UK tax payer then you can usually qualify and thi5 15 achieved simply by signing a declaration form which either myself or the treasurer can provide. We can claim Gift Aid on standing orders and planned giving. In addition, there are the individua I donations made via the Gift Aid Envelope 36

Scheme which are given at collections taken at our services throughout the year. If you are lucky enough to be a higher rate tax payer in all cases you can even claim an extra rebate in your tax return. Our treasurer records receipts for the month in which the payment is made. For the year ending 31 December 2024, St Martins reclaimed £7,429.00 from all sources, which is lower than last year. This sum includes repayments from the Gift Aid returns for December 2023 (credited in January 20241. The sums from December2024 are credited in January 2025 and will be shown in the 2025 accounts. These sums include payments derived from the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme IGASDS for shortl. General money received in our church collection plates or by the bank card reader can qualify. Also. if you originally pledged your giving using the coloured weekly envelopes but a re not a tax payer then I can count your weekly donation as part of GASDS and get more money that way. There is a GASDS limit of £8,000 which can be claimed in any tax year by any charity. Since June 2023 we have dispensed with the weekly envelopes except for the one-off gift Aid donations. Please rememberthere are tokens that you can put into the church plate as evidence that you are giving. Donations can still be made in the plate. Also, we have a card reader. Regular church goers will know that a decision was made in August 2022 to register the church with the central Parish Giving Scheme. This requires pledged payments to be paid by members of the congregation d irect to the PGS administration la separate charity} rather than our church bank account. It is easy to set up and you can do 50 on line, by telephone or a postal application. If you require help. please speak to me or Sheila Gough. PGS then claims the Gift Aid and pays monthly all payments (that is the donation and the claimed Gift Aid} to our bank account. However, PGS works independently from the Canterbury Diocese. The Diocese withdrew its Gift Aid administration from April 2023 and I continue to make separate Gift Aid claims for those donations paid d irect to our church account. Actually, this has proved less onerous than I had expected and HMRC make payment very quickly. So, having two means of paying pledged sums is not a problem. Individual donations given in the plate, card reader or by separate Gift Aid envelopes (which are still available) are the subject of separate direct claims to HMRC which I make at the same time. As a tax payer, Gift Aid is a bonus to the Church and provided that you do pay the tax there is no downside from your point of view. Remember; if you cease to be a tax payer or move address or change your name, please let me know immediately, I have to inform HMRC or PGS. Andrew Gough, GiftAid Secretary February 2025 Herne Communit Fun Da This event went ahead this year without the parish council as they decided that they did not have the resources to join in this year. Despite it now only being run by the church this was a very successful and engaginE event with everything happening as it had always dono and the volunteers from the church Stepping up on the whole to SUPPOrt the day. 37

We have committed to doing this event again this year as this is a great outreach opportunity as well as funding opportunity forthe church and we need YOU to step forward and help if you can. I could do with some help gathering raffle prizes, securing sponsorship, preparing the Eames, moving furniture, etc. but most importantly running stalls on the dayl The games on each stall will be provided for you, 50 we just need smiley fun faces to meet and engage with our local community to make our church seen in the local community as a people of God that they might like to join! I cannot do this day without you! I So, if you have helped, THANK YOU!! And if you have not so far, PLEASE get involved this year, we NEED youl This yearfs date is Sunday 13th July and we run from 11-4pm Thank you, in advance, foryoursupport. Sorah Bingham March 2025 House Grou ort for 2024 Our house group restarted in 2024 via Zoom after a break of about a year, during which time I was busy with our Ukrainian guests. We continue with the same group of 7 and meet not very regularly, but when time allows, choosing a date that all or at least a majority can attend. We use studies from Faith and Worship, most wrltten byjohn Birch who in addition to hls studies for small groups, has published several books of prayers. We recently studied "Jonah the Reluctant Prophev, and are now working on "The Incredible Journey,, a five-part discipleship study. We are a very cohesive groupj and finish our meeting with prayers forone another. Sheila Bennett March 2025 Little Fishes Re ort for 2024 Friday little Fishes continues to meet regularly every Friday morning during term time, 9.30- 11.30 at St. Peter's Church, Greenhill. We provide a wide range of toys suitable for babies and up to school age. The toy5 are rotated from week to week and include a dolls house, an indoor s1ide/climbing frame, a ball pool and a lovely rocking horse, plus many ride on toys and push or pull along items. Refreshments are provided for adults and children, and the toast with butterj jarn or honey is very popular. We have a low table and small chairs for the children to sit around while they eat, so that they begin to learn how to behave at a table with others for meals. They a150 begin to learn how to ask politely for what they would like with please and thank you. When the weather is fine, we make use of the large gra55y area behind St. Peters with its slide and sand pit. On theso days the children can run in and out as they choose. Anne Post organises a different craft for each Friday, usually designing something the children can take horne. Deborah Wa Iler spends time helping with all aspects of Little Fishes, especially the vital 38

task of packing the toys back into the cupboards afterwards. We have been very fortunate to have the invaluable help of Lauren Heathcote for many months while she was seeking full time employment. We will be very sorry to lose Lauren when she begins her new venture from 18th March. John Bennett helps with many aspects of the morning and is very popularamongthe children who enjoy sitting with him while he reads Stories. The parents/grandparents/childminders and child ren all enthusiastica Ily assist with the clea ring up of toys towards the end of the Session, after which we sit and sing nursery rhymes, then join in a circle for our final Songs including a sung prayer thanking God for ourfamilie5, friends and for our time at Little Fishes. We have many people to thank fortheir help including Rev. Chris who comes whenever his time allows, Steve who kindly gets the hall ready for us, and the members of our congregation who help us out when a stand-in is needed. When Lauren can no longer help us, we would very much like to have an additional volunteerto help on Fridays. It is a fun morning, and if you like to spend time with Small children, l am sure it would be an enjoyable experience. Sheila Bennett March 2025 Mess Church Messy Church continues to thrive although numbers have been down a little over the last few months. We are delighted to welcome families back month after month and have a very regular congregation for this monthly church offering. If you have never been, l urge you to pop along and see the great work that this service offering does for our younger congregants. We are able to offer a delicious two course, home cooked meal every month thanks to all those who so willingly prepare and donate the food. It is wonderful that we have so many volunteers. So, thank you very much to Sally and lan who turn up every month. Thank you also to Dot, Vanessa, Sheila B, Joan, Lisa, Anne, Sheila G, Linda, Hilary, Jenny, Priscilla, Leah, Mary, Pete, Helen, Yamit and Wendy. We really couldn't manage without you all. If anyone else would like tojoin ourteam of cooks please let Carolyn know. You would probably only be asked about three times a year. The food is collected from your door and the clean dish returned at the end so you don't need to turn up. Sarah Bingham March 2025 Pastoral Re ort 2024 Revd. Chris's a rriv31 led to a reviva l of pastoral visiting with Home Communions and visits to the Residential Horne5 in our Parish Herne Place, Broomfield Lodge and High Pines. There have been regular monthly service5 of Communion at Broomfield Lodge and twice-monthly Services at Herne Place. These service5 are greatly enjoyed by all residents and allow good opportunitie5 for 39

conversation and fellowship. Home Communion continue5 to be delivered, particularly by Sheila Gough who also supports Revd. Chris along with Anne Ackland and myself with pastoral dutie5. I would like to record huge thank5 to Liza Seed for her year5 of generous commitment to the Pastoral team now that she has retired to live c105erto her family. Deborah Woller March 2025 Safe uardin ort 2024 At St Martin-in-Herne with St Peter's Greenhill, we are fully committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment to all, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding 15 at the heart of o ur mission, reflecting our Christian values of love, care, a nd respect. We recognize our responsibility to protect those in our care and to create a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and heard. Our 5afeBuarding policies and proced ures are in place to ensure all volunteers understand their role5 in keeping people safe. We follow safeguarding guidelines from the Diocese, conduct appropriate background checks and access training to ensure best prattices are upheld. Safeguarding is not just the responsibility of a few - it is a shared commitment that requires the vigilance of the entire church community. We encourage everyone to speak up if they have concerns all of which would be taken seriously. l am pleased to report that there have been no issue5 of concern during the year. Anne Acklond Sofeguording officerfor Children and Vulnerable Adults March 2025 Schools Re Our ministry to our Herne Church of England Infant and Junior Schools continued to grow and is highly valued. Six members of the congregation are governors to the Junior School and four sit on the board of governors for the Infants School. So, the relationship between Herne Church and Schoo15 becomes ever stron8er. Since Soptember 2024 Revd Chris ha5 led worship at both the Infant5 and the Junlor school, During 2024 Andrew Gough, as governor at the Junior School, has given a full school worship once a terrn at Herne Juniors whilst Deborah Waller, as Lay Reader and governor at the Infant's School, has led whole school worship at both the schools as well as contributing to a joint worship between the two schools. The appointment of a new teacher at Herne Infants who leads worship has led to improved liaison between the two schools and the church with a range of further worships There have been a number of Herne School Services in St Martins, with a total of five services being led and organised by the Juniors and one by the Infants. Both schools attended the Remembrance Sunday service and at that service placed poppies around the War memorial. 40

On three Sundays in 2024, we were joined by Herne Junior school Worship Leaders who helped lead a Morning Worship with Deborah, along with a choir. It is hoped to continue building on this practice and to encourage the children and their parents to attend Sunday worship more regularly. Great credit must be paid to the Senior Leadership teams and all the staff and the governors at the schools who work tirelessly and with great skill and vison to provide such an excellent ed ucation for the child ren. Several of the governor5 are active contributors to the SIAMS curriculum at both schools. In the early part of 2024, there was no ministry provided to Herne Bay High School, It is understood that there has been some involvement by Christ Church Herne Bay even though the school is actually in the Herne parish. Revd Chris is now a governor at the High School and there are planned initiatives to improve mission and pastoral outreach in 2025 Also, no ministry was provided to Briary School (now Thornden Wood School) in the first half of 2024. However, following the appointment of Revd Chri5 he has worked with the head teacher and links have now developed. Both schools have been confirmed a5 Ofsted Outstanding (the inspection for the Junior school being completed in late 2023 Deborah Waller and Andrew Gough as Foundution Governors March 2025 Herne Church Hall also known as the St. Martin's Church Institute hall The hall currently has 16 regular weekly, twice-weekly, and monthly bookings during the week-days. These maintain a regular income for the upkeep of the hall. Weekends are kept for children's parties, Quiz Nights, Wine & Wisdoms and fun raising events for the church and these local groups. The average is 10 parties a month and at least 2 or 3 fund raising events. The main groups are dance and fitness groups. We also have Rubber Biscuit using the hall occasionally for band practice. The Herne Wl Group have relocated to St. Peters Hall in Greenhill and now called Herne Drive Wl. They wanted an afternoon 5essior5 but unfortunately there were no spaces available in the afternoons. We also have ad hoc bookinES for Tuition Classes and Playgroup end of year gatherings before the child ren go to 'big School, The hall is cleaned and maintained bysteve King and we do ask user5 to leave it clean & tidy in the hope the previous Booking has left it as It should be. Wendy Dinley HL711 Booking Secretory February 2025 St. Martin'5 Church Readers & Intercessors Since the arrival of Revd. Chris, I now have regular updates of the ministry Schedule for me to compile the readings, I then add names to the leadings and people to do Intercessions. As an update, in January 2025 the Infants school had a very successful SIAMS inspection 41

I produce the Readers Rota every four months and you get to read two orthree times in that period. I currently have 12 regular Readers and Intercessors and would appreciate more volunteers, so if you have ever wondered when listening to the reader5 every Sunday, how do they get to do that, I'd like to try it then please give you name to Revd. Chris or myself. Wendy Dinleyst. Martin's Readers February 2025 5t. Martin'5 Servers and Chalice bearers 2024 I have been privileged to act as the server at Holy Communion. l am often the chalice bearer although Leah Willey and Sheila Gough act in myabsence. Since January 2023 wine has been offered separately but Revd. Chris has re-introduced the intinction of the wafer. My thanks go to, Leah, Sheila and Deborah Waller who assist in offering the chalice and to the. churchwardens who13V Out the altar table if l am absent. Also, thanks to Roger Jackson who administers the chalice at the Sunday 8am communion service If anybody else would like to come forward and offer to Serve at the altar I would be very grateful to hear from them. Andrew Gough, Sacristan February 2025 Tuesda Toddler Re Ort 2024 Where else other than a toddler group would you find.. a daddy with a fried egg (plastic) on his lap 8randad covered in grass to make him look like a scarecrow, 3 mummy nursing a sick baby doll, ora cross-eyed Easter ch ick I Well, we've had it all at Tuesday Little Fishes; our little ones never cease to amaze us with their creativity and sense of adventure. We had a peaceful first term when we welcomed Margaryta and her baby son Mark from Ukraine. We also had Ellie join us for a few week5, work experience before she went on to secure a job as a classroom assistant in a loca I primary school. Our Spring clothes swap was a success with families swapping or donating mainly babies, a nd toddlers, clothes. Our regular outing in May to The Jungle, Quex Park was once again appreciated by all who attended. in fact, one of the grandads said:"That was¥****marvellous!" 29 families made up of mums, dads, grandparents, and child minders attended. The 34 children who came were treated to 3 buffet lunch laid on by the centre. Our Teddy Bears, Picnic and Sports Day had to be postponed because of wet weather but we did manage to fit it in on one of the rare sunny days in the summer term. Each child went home with a lovely hand knitted teddy, most of which were knitted by Theresa, Our Leavers, special on the last day of term saw 8 children moving on to school or to other settings, Each one received a copy of "My Very First Bible" and a Christian coaster for their family. The parent5 of the children leaving gave us some lovely cards with very encouraging messages which we really appreciated,.. 42

The children loved it and lookedfvrwurd to it each week, it gave us a chance to have a warm cup of tea (and a cheeky biscuit) und speak with like-minded people. You and all the volunteers were alwt7ys so welcoming, kind and helpful. I can't thank you all enough for the support YOU showed us over the past six years, thank you again xxx The staff team reconvened on 3, September to clean the toys and throw some out and we resumed th for the autumn term on 10 September. th After much thought we decided that on this our 50 anniversary year we would change the name of our group from Tuesday Toddlers {which didn't really li nk us to the church) to Tuesday Little Fishes. Th is also lin ks us to Friday Little Fishes. The events of the final term of the year followed our usual pattern, including our Harvest Festival, Grandparents, Special, a particularly popular Toy Swap in November and our two Christmas parties with visits from Father Christmas. Our weekly booking emails which include general church news, currently80 Out to 91 families. Around 30 of these families are regular attendees. It is always 50 important to mention the special people who have helped us so much throughout the year. The regular staff Theresa, Val, Fran and Carolyn would like to thank: Roger Jackson for mowing the lawn so we can make good use of the outside space. Anne Ackland for being our regular'supply, cover. Doug and Peter for sporting big white fluffy beards in December. Grandparents Donna, Geoff, Clare, Jacquie and Mick for helping week by week with packing away the toys, tables and chairs. Corolyn Thomos February 2025 Worshi Band This year has been an amazing development year for the band and I feel that the congregation are really starting to enjoy and engage in the offering that the band bring5 to worship at both of the churches. We were delighted to be joined this year by both Derek who is a fabulous drummer and Michelle who is a great asset to vocals. Both are amazing additions to the sound that we can bring to the services. Paul, Jack and Fiona contin ue with faultless commitment too, to ensu re that as a team we are delivering the best quality sound lead that we can, to ensure that the congregation can learn new material as well as enjoy older favourites and worship in a contemporary way. Thank you to all in the congregation for your enthusiasm and posltivity. Please remember to ask if you have a song that you would like us to try and we will do our best to learn them. St7rah Bingham March 2025 43

ST ANNEXE: THE ACCOUNTS FOR I"JANUARY 2024 TO 31 DECEMBER 2024 Independently examined by P G Lemon LLP 44

Parochial Church Council of St Martin in Heme with St Peter Greenhill Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 GENERAL FUND Unrestricted Funds 2024 Total Funds Notes 2024 2023 ReGeipts and Payments Account RECEIPTS Voluntary Receipts Planned Giving Collection5 at Services Gift Aid and other voluntary receipts Gift Aid Recovered Legacy 33,931 4,800 21,567 7,429 40,000 33.931 4,800 21,567 7,429 40,000 33.487 4,819 11,616 9,487 500 Activits'es for Generating Funds 7,003 7,003 4,968 Church Actlvities - St Martins Income Recelved for St Martins Hall Church Activities - St Peters 8,261 2,154 13,321 8,261 2,154 13,321 11,894 12,109 Funds Transferred from CCLA accounts Funds transferred from Hall Alc 42,938 14,000 42,938 14,000 27,745 12,386 Receipts 195,403 195,403 129,011 TOTAL RECEIPTS 195,403 195,403 129,011 PAYMENTS Church Activities Parish Share Clergy and Staffing Costs Church Running Expenses Occasional Office Expenditure Mission givin9 and donations Fundraising Church Hall - St Martins Church Hall - St Pelers 80,329 7,060 35.902 3,663 1,542 1.322 3,855 11,299 80,329 7,060 35,902 3,663 1,542 1.322 3,855 11,299 74,314 7,601 29,481 7,241 1,998 1.808 2,154 12,098 Transferred to Investment A¢Gounts 50,000 50.000 ViGars Discretionary Trust Bank Charges 25 304 25 304 250 273

Payments 195,301 195,301 137,217 TOTAL PAYMENTS 195,301 195,301 137,217 Su￿r￿S/DefiCIt 102 (8,206) Cash at Bank and in hand 1st January Cash at Bank and in hand 31st December (Lloyds Bank and Santander) 4,299 4,401 12,505 4,299

Parochial Church Council of St Martin in Herne With St Peter Greenhill Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Notes Unrestricted Funds 2024 Total Funds 2024 St Martin's Church Hall 2023 Income Hall Lettings 16,040 16,040 TOTAL RECEIPTS 16,040 16,040 13.285 Payments Utilities Cleaning Materials Caretaker Salary Insuran Maintenance Music Licence Rental Refijnd Miscellaneous (Stampslstationery) Tfer to St Martin's General Alc for Parish Share 511 632 1,584 1,350 307 159 511 632 1,584 1,350 307 159 236 486 1,041 1,249 1,476 338 25 155 12,386 179 16,154 17g 16,154 TOTAL PAYMENTS 20,876 20,876 17.392 SurpluslDeficit {4,836) (4,107) Cash at bank and in hand at 1st January Cash at bank and in hand at 31 st December 8,299 3,464 12,406 8.299 Youth Account Recelpts Activity Days Messy Church Little Fishes Mothers & Toddlers 179 235 418 275 179 235 418 275 111 178 427 527 TOTAL RECEIPTS 1,107 1.107 1.243 Payments ActlVity/Craft materials Messy Church Little Fishes Mothers & Toddlers Caretaker 20 17 81 61 525 180 81 81 525 180 479 135 TOTAL PAYMENTS 873 873 667 SurpluslDeficit 234 576 Cash at bank 1st January Cash at bank 31st December 1,830 2,064 1,254 1,830

Parochial Church Councll of St Martin in Herne with St Peter Greenhill FinanGial Statements for the Year Ended 315t December 2024 ReEtricted Funds Total Funds St Martin-in-Herne Church Restoration Account 2024 2023 Recoipts TOTAL RECEIPTS Payments Transfer to Gen AJC part P2yrnent B W May Inv TOTAL PAYMENTS 3,500 3,500 Cash at bank 1st January Cash at bank 31st Décember 485 485 485 485

Parochial Church Council of St Martin in Heme with St Peter Greenhill Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Statement of Assets and Liabilities for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Notes Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total Funds Cash Funds 2024 2023 Lloyds Bank Current Account Santander Bank Current Account Church Hall Account Youth Account Restoration Account 4,076 325 3,464 2.064 4.076 325 3.464 2,064 485 4.099 200 8.299 1.830 485 485 9.928 485 10,413 14,913 Investment Assets 109.696 36,735 146,430 132,344 109,696 36,735 146.430 132,344 Fixed Assets retained for Church Use s,000 5,000 Liabilities Unpaid 2017 Parish Sha Unpaid 2018 Parish Share Unpaid 2021 Parish Share Funds held on behalf of Mothers & Toddlers 6,742 11,704 24,769 257 6,742 11,704 24.769 198 Funds held on behalf of St Peter's Greenhill Little Fishes Messy Church Activity Days Community Café 1.060 428 318 1,780 753 102 904 47.058 45.172 Approv d by fhe Parochial Church Council on: 7Tkl Pr*p￿ '1<) L5 and signed by.. Rev'd Christopher Carn8by-Denyer Mrs Sheila GoLigh rfreasurer) Bank.. Lloyds 144-146 High Street Herne Bay Kent Independent Examlner: PG Lemon LLP 22-26 Bank Street Herne Bay Kent CT6 SEA CCLA Investment Managerment Ltd One Angel Lane London EC4R 3AB

Parochial Church Council of St Martin in Herne with St Peter Greenhill Financial Statemer7ts for the Year Er]ded 31st December 2024 Notes to the Financial Statements The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance wtth the Church Accounting Regulations using the Receipts and Payments basis 1. General Fund Analysis of Receipts 2024 2023 Voluntary Receipts Planned Giving Weekly Envelopes Planned Giving Scheme 16,011 32,728 759 17.920 33,931 33,487 Collections and other giving 4.800 4,819 Gift Aid Envelopes Donations General Collections for specific purposes TelecoJnmunications Mast Flower Box Candle Tree Wall BoxlAcrylic Box Vicar Leaving Gift 235 11.610 435 8,978 65 75 189 130 1,434 522 8,978 174 86 117 175 11,616 21,567 Income Tax RecOVe￿d Legacy 7,429 40,000 9,487 500 Receipts from activities for generating funds Hospitality￿ea Coffee Mothers & Toddlers Group CalenderslNotelett8 Fundraising Events and Activities 148 691 116 527 7.003 4,g68 Receipts from ChurGh Actlvlties Wedding DepositslBannslCertificate8 PCC Fees for BaptismslWeddingslFunerals Diocese Fees for WeddingslFunerals OrganisUBellslChoir Fees Additional WeddinglFuneral Income Vacancy Fees Refunded Vicarage Grass Cutting 288 2,414 1,868 1,810 1,160 532 189 8,261 320 3,354 3,319 2,315 1,955 531 100 11,894 Receipts recelved on behalf of St Martins Hall (Utility Paymentsllnsurancelcleaning Matèrials) 2,154 St Peter's Greenhill Community Café Rental income Donations S2ntander account 876 12,220 100 125 13.321 904 11,205 12,109 Total of the above 138.465 88.880 Funds Traneferred from CCLA AGGounts

Reserve Account lo pay Parish Share Reserve Account to pay St Peter's Insurance Reserve Account to pay for Organ Repairs Vicars Discretionary Fund Funds transferred from Fabric Fund to pay 3 months 202212023 Parish Share to part pay B W May invoice to pay for tree felling Funds transferred from Restoration Fund to pari pay B W May iT)voice 27,301 1,393 14,244 250 18,578 3.017 2,400 3.500 27,745 42,938 FundB transferred from Hall ajc re Parish Share 14,000 12,386 Total Receipts 495,403 129,011

Parochfal Church Council of St Marts'n in Herne with St Peter Greenhill Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Notes to the Flnancial Statements 2. General Fund Analysis of Payrnents 2Q24 2023 Direct Ministry Expenditure Parish Share 80,329 74,313 Incumbents Vvorking Expenses Vicarage Telephone Curates Working Expenses Curates Telephone Other Clergy Expenses Organlsusecretary Salaries Admininstration 457 271 359 204 4,092 2,243 7,060 553 3,892 2,526 7,601 hurch Running Expenses Utilities Insurance Repairs,MaintenanGe & Supplies Church Security(AlarmlLighting) Upkeep of Churchyard Worship MUSIC Training Costs/Outreach Red Lion Parking Flowers 5,570 8,925 3,506 155 8,226 8,606 7,213 177 2,400 240 1.366 390 15,820 320 720 496 35,902 720 533 29,481 Occasional Office Expenditure WeddingslFuneral Wedding Deposit/Fees refund Parochial Fees (WeddinglFuneral fees to Diocese) VacanGy Fees 2,160 2,415 25 4,243 1,503 558 7,241 3,663 Charitable Givinglmission Royal British Legion Herne Junior School (Leavers Bibles) Mission to Sea Farers Friends of Kent Churches Gifts from Vicar's Discretionary Fund Anglican Renewal Mission Childrens Society Moth8rs & Toddlers Porchlight Catching Lives Subscriptions 366 232 282 200 175 527 275 (30) 166 283 120

Refreshments Salvatiohn Army Cruize Breavement Bishops Justice Appeal Taxi Fares (Herne Infant School) Restorgtion Celebration 160 45 139 139 363 42 1,542 1,998 Fundraislng Funday Sunday Wine & Wisdom Christmas Fair Christmas Tree Festival 568 330 142 282 1,322 1,603 148 57 1,808 St Martins Church Hall Utilities Cleaning Materials Fire Extinguishers 3,569 2,044 109 286 3,855 2,154 St Peter's Greenhill Utilities Cleaning Materials Insurance Caretaker Salary Maintenancelftepairs Activities Booking Refund 5,323 165 1,393 3,744 615 6,963 202 1,366 3,470 92 1,296 60 11,299 12.098 Total of the above 144,972 136,694 Transferred to CCLA Fabrlc Transferred to CCLA Reserves - Donation and Legacy Vicars DiscretAoDary Fund 50,000 25 50,025 250 250 Bank Charges 304 273 Total Payments 195,301 137,217

Parochial Church Gouncil of St Martin in Hernè with St Peter Greenhill Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2.024 Notes to the Fin nG.ial Ststements 3. Analysfs Df Youth Account Recelpts A¢tivity Days Messy Church Little Fishe Mothers & Toddlers 179 111. 418 275 1,107 427 Payments Activity. E¢uipmenUCraft Materials Messy Church - Resource matertallRefreshments Little fisheg - Party Foo.d Molhers & Toddlers - Outings and Christthas prèsents Caretaker 20 17 91 479 135 667 180 873 Cash at bank 1st January Cash at bank 31 st December 1,254 1,830 2,0fj4 10

Parochial Church Council of St Martin in Herne with St Peter GrÈenhill Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Notes to the Financial Statements 4. Analysls of CGLA Investments F'unds Bell Fund for Year Endin 31st December 2024 2024 2023 RECEIPTS Interest 0.56 0.56 0.94 PAYMENTS Balance at 1st January Balance at 31 st December 17.76 18.70 17.20 17.76 Fabric Fund for Year Endin 31st December 2024 2024 2023 RECEIPTS Interest 1182.75 1.182.75 2 708.40 2,708.40 PAYMENTS 202212023 Parish Share Transfertsd to Gen alc tree felling invoici Transferred to ReseTve Accounl 18,578.25 2,400.00 73,495.78 94,474.03 Balance at 1 st January Balance at 31st December 10.000.00 101,765.63 11,182.75 10,000.00 Institute Fund for Year Endln 31st Deeember 2024 2024 2023 RECEIPTS Interest 644.35 644.35 376.98 376.98 PAYMENTS Balance at 1st January Balan￿ at 31st December 12,139.76 12,784.11 11,762.78 12,139.78 Ma Le ac Fund for Year Endin 31st December 2024 Restricted for the use of the Poor and Needy of the Parish 2024 2023 RECEIPTS Interest 1,277.25 1,277.25 751.24 751.24 PAYMENTS ITicarfs Discretionary Fund 394.00 394.00 B212nco at 1st January Balance at 31st December 24,063.53 25,340.78 23,706.29 24,063.53 11

Parochial Church Council of St Iwartin in Hemp with St Petsr Greenhill Financial Ststements forthe Year Ended 31st December 2024 Notes o the Financial Statemènts Analysis of CCIA Investrnents Funds continued an Fu,nd Accoulit foryear Endin 31st December 2024 2024 2023 RECEIPT Int6rest 0.07 0,07 Q.04 0.04 PAYMEKrs Bal8n¢0 at tst January Balano at 31st December 1.41 Diocesan De osit Fund fot Year Fndin 31stDe Reservé Acéountfor st Petorfs and St Martin's 2Q24 RECÉIPTS Transfeffed from Fabric Fund TTan>ferred from Gen Wc- DLIn2￿0￿ TrgllFf¢rre¢ from Gen AIG- Leg4 2Q23 73,495.78 10,000.00 40.000.00 Intsre&t 53,637.39 73.723.38 PAYMENTS Parish Share Organ Rèpajr other general expenses 27,888.00 14,244.00 1806.00 42,938,DO Balance at 1st January B218n.ce at 31&t DeGember 80,824.96 7,10.1.58 91,524.35 BO,824.96 Restoration Fund foryear Endln 31st December2024 2024 2023 RECEIPTS Ihter&st 10.63 87.60 FAYMENTS BWM8y 3,017.20 Balan￿ at 1st Jfjnuary Balan￿ a't 31st De¢¢rrib8r 20b,4& 211.09 3,150.06 2ao.46 Roof Fund for Year Endln 31st Decémber"2024 2024 2023 RECEIPTS Interest 270.51 158.26 PAYMENTS Balance at 1stJanuary Balance at 31st ￿e￿mb8r 5.096.48 5.366.99 4.938.22 5.096.48 12

Independent Examiner's Report to the P¢C of the Parish of St Marttn4n-Herne with St Peter Greenhill This Report on the financial statements of the PCC ftir the year ended 31 De￿mber 2024, which are set out in this annual report, is in respect of an examination carried out under regulation 3(3) of the Church AcGounting Regulations 2006 ( ':the Regulations") and s. 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('Ihe ACVJ. Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the examinar As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts; you conslder that an audit is not required for this year under Regulation 3(3) of the Church Accodnting Regulation5 2006 and section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act). It Is my responslblllty to issue this report on the accounts in accordance with the terms of the Regulations. Basis of independent exarninerfs report My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by th¢ Charty Commission under séction 145(5)(b) of the Act end lo be found in the Church gUsda￿￿ from the CBF. That examination includes a review of the accounting record kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. it also incluqes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The proCedU￿S undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required In an audit. and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts. Independent Examiners statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: which gives me reasonable cause to believe that In any material respect the reqLtirements to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Act; and to prepare accouhts whlch accord with the accounting records and to comply with the requirements of thé Act, as also contained in the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 have not not been met. Signed: nL.A. ￿￿￿_.￿ rLCA PG L.emon LLP 22-26 Bank Street Heme Bay Kent CT6 SEA Dated: ,Y ThAJ-ck 20 13

Independent Examiner's Report to the PCC of the Parish of St Martin-in-Herne with St Poter Greenhill This Report on the financial statements of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out in this annual report, is in respect of an examination carried out under regulation 3{3) of the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 ( "the Regulations") and s. 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ("the Act"). Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the &xaminer As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts., you consider that an audit is not required for this year under Regulation 3(3) of the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and section 144<2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act) It is my responsibility to issue this report on the accounts in accordance with the term5 of the Regulations. Basis of independent examiner's report My examination was carried out in accordance wth the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(51(b) of the Act and to be found in the Church guidance from the CBF. That examination includes a review of the accounting record kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts. Independent Examiner's statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention.. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Act., and to prepare accounts which accord wth the accounting records and to ¢omply with the requirements of the Act, as also contained in the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 have not not been mel. Signed.. PG Lemon LLP 22-28 Bank Street Herne Bay Kent CT6 SEA Dated.. 1¥ 2D&g 13