## St. Paul’s Hooton Parish Annual Report 2025
Chester Road, Little Sutton, CH66 1QF Registered Charity No. 1134654 Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025 Prepared by the Parochial Church Council
For the year ended 31 December 2025
For the year ended 31 December 2025
For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **ADMINSTRATIVE INFORMATION**
St. Paul’s is situated on Chester Road in Little Sutton, a village eight miles from Chester. The ecclesiastical parish is made up of three communities of Hooton, Childer Thornton and Little Sutton. The correspondence address for the parish is Hooton Vicarage, Chester Road, Little Sutton, CH66 1QF. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a body of corporate (POCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2022) and a charity registered with the Charity Commission. Registered Charity no. 1134654
## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT**
Our ACM was held in April following Church and Government guidelines. Two nominations were received for the two positions of Churchwarden and they were elected unanimously to continue as Churchwardens for another year.
PCC members are appointed in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. Membership consists of ex-officio members (as listed above) and members elected by those names are on the Electoral Roll or live in the Parish. All those who attend our services – and are members of the congregation – are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.
There were two vacancies on the PCC at the time of the ACM following the resignation of Jan Barnett and Kath Hitchmough and both do not wish to be re-elected to the PCC. The Churchwardens and the PCC wish to thank Jan and Kath for all their hard work over the last year. We received two new nominations for election to the PCC from Beryl Tidbury and Joy Edge. Jo Byrne was re-elected to the PCC at the PCC meeting held on 12 May 2025. All three were duly elected to the PCC.
We have three Deanery Synod Representatives and at the time of the AGM, two well established representatives, Sarah and Richard and Sheena has applied for election to Deanery Synod as a representative of St. Paul’s and was accepted unanimously.
PCC members are responsible for discussing and making decisions on all matters of concern and importance to the Parish which includes finance, maintenance of the fabric of the church and grounds, and social activities held by the church.
This year the PCC continued to be split into working groups with the following names and remit: **Estates** – to identify as much maintenance of the fabric needed on the church estate and complete. To develop the assisting buildings and modernise the church hall.
**Events** – to plan social events throughout the year with the aim to develop community participation and increase income. **Finance** – to review our financial situation. Seeking to wisely minimise outgoings and increase income, whilst remaining missional. Looking at budgets for mission, buildings, charitable giving, like any family that feels the pinch, we have needed to look at our spending and budget fairly to achieve our aims. Applying for and achieving grants to continue our mission work within the community.
**Worship** - to ensure that the current worship at St. Paul’s is practically within our skill set, working at its best to develop community and how the community worships Almighty God. This group work on the liturgy in church, what our diet of worship looks like, ensuring we are creative at Easter, Christmas, Ascension, Pentecost, Epiphany, Lent and Advent. This group have worked hard to create, develop and lead family and café church services over the last year.
## **PCC SECRETARY REPORT**
The PCC met ten times in the year. The average attendance was 82%. The first PCC meeting held in 2025 was chaired by the Parish priest, Father Mark. Following Father Mark’s short illness and sad passing, the Vice-Chair Churchwarden Alex Duffey chaired all remaining meetings in 2025, apart from the November PCC meeting which was chaired by Churchwarden Mark Holmes.
## For the year ended 31 December 2025
The Standing Committee met five times in 2025 (under Church Representatives Rules 2011 M31/6). In addition, there was one Extraordinary PCC Meeting held in March 2025 following the sad passing of Father Mark.
## **AIMS AND OBJECTIVES**
The PCC works with the vicar to promote the mission of the church in the local context. This work is pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical in nature. We endeavour to communicate our faith and values through words and action, in the creation of a caring Christian community that is outward thinking. As well as providing services to our community in a variety of situations, we provide the church hall for various social needs and aspirations.
## **ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE**
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our Church, and to become part of our parish family. When planning our activities, certain members of the PCC have considered the Charity’s Commission’s guidance on public benefit, and particularly the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. We try to enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish family, through
- Worship and prayer; learning about the Gospel and developing their knowledge and trust in Jesus.
- Provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish.
- Mission and outreach work.
To facilitate this work, it is vital that we continue to maintain the fabric of the building and develop/modernise the church hall.
At St. Paul’s we are a community of many layers that come together to worship God and serve those around us. We aim to welcome everyone and have developed and continue to extend our sense of inclusivity. We hear God calling those in the margins locally, to be the centre of His church. We hear God calling back whose who have once left church behind,and church has left them behind.
The statistics show that St Paul’s Electoral Roll is 147 people in 2025. There were 32 baptisms and 7 weddings Our Christmas and Easter services were very well attended.
40 funerals were held in church, 14 at crematorium and there was a total of 26 committals only or burial of ashes. Memorial services to remember those who have died were held in December, continuing our fantastic relationship with our Funeral Directors to conduct memorial services for their clients. Williams Bell’s service was held at St. Paul’s, led by Rev. Gillian and the worship team. Anderson Funeral Directors held theirs at St Thomas’ for last year with members of our worship team conducting elements of the service.
## **Ministry highlights for 2025:**
- The church was closed during the day for a large proportion of the year, due to falling masonry, but following the installation of a temporary net it is now once again open during the week between the hours of 08:00 and 16:00 for prayer, quiet time and reflection. Due to its continued popularity, church is also open at the weekends.
- Oratory Chapel in the Parish Hall continues to be used regularly for Wednesday Communion services, prayer group meetings and spiritual wellbeing. This chapel has given St. Paul’s and the community another spiritual place for prayer, reflection and time with God.
- Holy Week activities and food in the Church Hall saw the community come together in a meaningful and joyful way. From simple gatherings over food to engaging in reflective events leading up to Easter, the atmosphere was one of connection, hospitality and faith.
- Bible study continues to be a valuable time for learning, reflection and community. Gathering regularly, we explore Scripture together in an open and welcoming environment, asking questions, sharing insights and growing in faith. Whether you are new to the bible or have been reading it for years, there’s always something new to discover – always room at the table.
For the year ended 31 December 2025
- The monthly prayer meeting at St. Pauls’ is a peaceful and grounding time where we come together to lift up our church, community and world in prayer. It’s a simple but powerful gathering – open to all – where we share prayers, listen for god’s guidance and support one another in faith. Whether you come with specific intentions or just a quiet heart, it’s a space to connect with God and with each other.
- At St. Paul’s we are committed to encouraging and supporting lay readers and preachers as they share their gifts with the wider community. Whether reading scripture, leading prayers, or offering a sermon, lay involvement brings fresh voices and perspectives to our worship. We are grateful for those who step forward in faith to serve in this way and continue to offer training, guidance and encouragement from Rev Gillian and the rest of the PCC to help them grow in confidence and deepen their calling.
- Two members of our congregation, Sarah and Clare have completed the OWLS (Occasional Worship Leaders course). This is a 4 week course for those who find themselves leading worship on an occasional basis and do not feel called to be licensed or ordained.
- One member of our congregation has become a reader licensed to our parish, Sheena, who leads and preaches on the first Sunday of the month at both services.
- We have held our annual memorial service that offered the community a space to remember, and honour loved ones who have passed. Held by Williams and Bell funeral directors; bringing together families and friends for a reflective evening of remembrance and fosters a sense of community and shared grief.
- Rev. Gillain and Rev. Paul and Rev. Jo are a constant, visible presence at St. Paul’s, actively engaging with both the parish and the wider community. Through their pastoral care, visiting care homes and schools, regular participation in local events, and personal connections, they provide support, guidance, and a sense of unity, helping to nurture spiritual growth and strengthen the bonds within the community.
- St. Paul’s Church maintains strong, ongoing links with the local council, councillors, and the mayor and deputy mayor, fostering a collaborative relationship that benefits the parish and the wider community. Through regular communication and shared initiatives, they work together on community projects, ensuring that St. Paul’s remains an integral part of local civic life and continues to serve as a place of support, outreach, and partnership. In recent months the Parish has started to host the monthly Artisan Market which has seen community links strengthen even further
- St. Paul’s Church has developed enduring and strong links with veterans and the Royal British Legion, providing a place of solace and support for those who have served. Through regular services, commemorations, and joint events, the church honours their sacrifices and fosters a deep sense of community and respect, ensuring that the legacy of veterans is always remembered and celebrated.
- St. Paul’s Church continues to offer the Lego Church project, offering a fun and interactive way for young and old alike to engage with faith and community. To support this initiative, training for volunteers is provided, equipping them with the skills to guide participants and create an inclusive environment where creativity and spirituality come together. This initiative helps build connections within the parish while offering a unique approach to learning and fellowship.
- The continued development of St. Paul’s website is vibrant, easy to navigate, and packed with helpful resources, making it the perfect place to stay connected, discover upcoming events, and engage with the heart of our community—visit today and be part of the journey! https://www.stpaulshooton.org.uk/ . A group of parishioners have now taken on the task of keeping it up to date.
- The significant increase in St. Paul’s presence on Facebook has not only brought more people to the church but also significantly boosted our profile within the local community, Chester Diocese, and beyond. Thanks to our avid re posters, we’ve been able to share our message far and wide, and we continue to encourage more people to get involved and help spread the word. By sharing events, stories, and messages of hope, we are reaching a wider audience, fostering greater connection and engagement with both current and new members of our faith community.
## For the year ended 31 December 2025
- Baptism services have continued throughout the closure of the centre of the church and been well attended. Rev Gillain has been meeting with families once a month in the church hall to discuss and welcome families into the church, Rev. Jo will be continuing these meetings from May.
- St. Paul’s holds a monthly Men’s Breakfast, offering a friendly and relaxed space for men of all ages to come together for a meal, fellowship, and engaging conversation. These gatherings provide a chance for spiritual growth, mutual support, and the building of stronger connections within the church community. Whether through thought-provoking discussions, guest speakers, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the Men’s Breakfast is a cherished and meaningful part of life at St. Paul’s.
- A key achievement for 2025 is the temporary repair to our dome and the church’s reopening in full.
- The Warm Hub/Public Living Room in the church hall launched last year and continues to flourish. Led by a dedicated team of volunteers the Hub continues to grow, with the volunteers offering a range of activities. Food continues to be a focus for the group
- The votive stand continues to direct people to prayer and candles at lit for loved ones on a daily basis.
## **WORSHIP**
Over the last year we have continued with what our diet of worship looks like and their collective range. We continue to assess our services on a regular basis; our like and dislikes, strengths and areas for development. I think you’ll agree our refreshed diet of worship is refreshing and spiritually engaging here at St. Paul’s. Services are:
- **1[st] Eucharist with Sunday Club** – Sunday Eucharist service with Sunday club in Church Hall
- **2[nd] Family Eucharist** – Family service including Sunday club in church led by the children, including carrying the processional cross, candles, reading and leading intercessions and assisting to distribute the communion elements. Talks are given by a variety of people, lay and ordained. A more informal service.
- **3[rd] Eucharist with Sunday Club** - Sunday Eucharist service with Sunday club in Church Hall
- **4[th] Café Church with Sunday Club** – non-eucharistic service replacing the Service of the Word. Takes place in the large hall in the church centre with tea, coffee, croissants, muffins etc. It’s a form of parish breakfast. We have hymns, readings, a talk, prayers and some open discussion on tables.
- **5[th] Eucharist with prayers for healing** – Sunday Eucharist service with Sunday Club in Church Hall. This service offers people prayers of healing.
As well as these monthly services, we continue to hold an annual Dawn Service on Easter day, Holy week evening activities, reflections and services.
## **CHURCHWARDENS REPORT**
This year has been a tough year and brought many challenges to Mark and I. The tragic death of our vicar Father Mark at the start of February, threw the parish into another interregnum. We have also faced the challenge of falling masonry from the dome in the church and the temporary closure of the centre section of the church for six months. However, through the power of prayer and dedication of the parish we have seen a temporary net installed, until we have secured the money needed to complete the repair. As Father Mark would say there have been many moments over the past year that have brought the parish joy and gratitude. The support from the diocese in the temporary appointment of Rev. Gillain has certainly eased the pain that so many have felt at the loss of Father Mark. Rev. Gillain and Rev. Paul have brought stability to the parish.
The embedding of our worship group to lead family and cafe services has been wonderful to see and a particular source of joy. They now plan and run these services, involving children and families as much as possible and linking to our new messy church which runs once a month on a Saturday.
For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **CHURCH HALL USAGE**
The Church Hall continues to be well used throughout the week and during the weekend. We currently have a Friday free but have to turn bookings away regularly due to being full. The Church Hall is available for hire for private functions on request.
## **WORKS, MAINTAINENCE AND HEALTH AND SAFETY**
The Monday lads have kept up with general maintenance, changing bulbs and lights to LED where possible. Annual safety inspections have been carried out, i.e. PAT testing, Fire Extinguishers, First Aid Kits. Central heating in the church and hall has been serviced. Defibrillator and stab pack installed. A team of local volunteers and pay back team have kept the graveyard well maintained. Paths and walkways have been kept clean and clear of moss, topple test carried out on gravestones and any dangerous ones were made safe. Dangerous trees by the hut and stream have been removed safely. Kitchen oven serviced and cleaned. Big thank you to all the volunteers you continue to give up their spare time to keep the church and grounds in good condition.
## **INITIATION AND NURTURE**
Seven candidates were prepared and five candidates were presented by the Vicar for Confirmation by the Bishop Sam. All are regular communicants at St Pauls post confirmation.
## **MAGAZINE**
Over the past year we have continued to produce, edit and write for the Parish Magazine. In 2025 we released 9 editions, including a special edition in November honouring the memory of our much-missed Father Mark. In 2026 we will continue to produce nine issues, with joint editions in January/February, July/August and October/November.
The magazine is a mix of devotional articles, history, photographs and information on a whole range of Church activities, together with a wide variety of pieces contributed by a small but devoted group of parishioners. We have also continued to advertise a small number of local businesses.
In the summer of 2025, we agreed to take on the task of producing the weekly Sunday Link newsletter, reducing the size from A4 to A5 to save on printing costs. It continues to inform parishioners on upcoming Church events and services.
## **BIBLE STUDY**
A Bible Study was requested when Rev. Gillian arrived and has met on about five occasions. It was well received and attended.
## **PRAYER GROUP**
The prayer group is open to everyone and meets fortnightly in the living room on a Wednesday evening at 7pm lasting about an hour. This usually follows the choir practice.
It is led by Occasional Worship Leader, David McCormick and is based around the liturgy of compline. It includes a devotional scripture reading and a time of open prayers of intercession for God's family here and the world.
## **BAPTISM TALK**
Regular talks take place every second Tuesday of the month this will be taken forward by Rev Jo. A family service with Baptism is ready to be used but will need to be printed by the office.
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PAUL’S, HOOTON ANNUAL REPORT (continued) For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **OCCASIONAL WORSHIP LEADER (OWL)**
Occasional Worship Leaders are recruited and authorised by, and accountable to, the incumbent and PCC of the parish in which they will lead worship.
Training for this ministry is resourced centrally by the Diocese, through a four-week Leading Public Worship course. This covers the elements, shape and liturgy of worship including the use of music, image and prayer in all types of services.
Currently we are fortunate to have 3 “OWLS” at St Pauls. They are David McCormick, Sarah Turner and Claire Dilworth.
Together with, at present Rev Gillian Rossiter, Rev Jo Pemberton and Lay reader Sheena Wilson this makes up the basis of our worship team together with Jo Byrne, Choir Lead Gill Dutton and celebrant servers Beryl Tidbury and James Turner.
This is humbling, but also both a privilege and a joy, to lead the lovely members of God's family at St Pauls in worship.
Thank you for your support.
## **SCHOOL CONNECTIONS**
Rev. Gillian reports that during my time at St Paul's I have been into four local schools. At the Little Sutton Primary School (church school), we have assisted at the presentation evening and visited them on one other occasion also Rev Paul spent the day with them at Christmas (Father Christmas). The school came to visit the church on 30[th] March 2025 and were welcomed by Rev Jo. I have been into Rossmore twice to take assembly and meet some of the children. We have visited Childer Thornton School to talk to them about Christmas and also about baptism. We visited Parklands School at Easter to take a service and talk about Palm Sunday.
## **CHOIR**
The church choir is an integral part of the 10.30am Sunday service, leading the congregation in the singing of the hymns and sung prayers. During communion, the choir sing two or more hymns as required.
The choir consists of six/seven full time members plus additional members from Sunday club and the congregation. We practice on a regular basis, to learn new pieces for worship in song and run through the hymns for the forthcoming month.
I, as choir leader, choose the hymns for each month and for important dates such as Christmas and Easter. The choir also supports the clergy in the smooth running of the service. The choir leads the singing at the Cenotaph on the yearly Remembrance Day service.
At Christmas time the choir play an important role during the celebrations, particularly at the Nine Lessons and Carols service by leading the congregation and singing four choir items during the service. At this time, and also for the Easter time services, we have additional members to swell our choir numbers to 14/15.
## **SUNDAY CLUB**
Sunday club meets at 10.30am on Sunday morning in the Church Hall. It is led by Gwen and a dedicated team of helpers on a rota basis. We have an average of 6-9 children throughout the year, every week
We generally follow the Lectionary, as we are finding that as we don’t have the same children every week. This is working very well. We do have ‘Click’, ‘On the Way’ and ‘In Sight’ to use alongside the Lectionary. Ther series takes s through the Old and New Testaments covering all aspects of our Christian faith. All teaching material involves the children having fun with crafts and activities whilst learning.
In November, we introduced ‘Lego Church’ on a Sunday morning once a month, which has become very popular.
Child Protection and Health and Safety protocols are in full operation and checked on at regular intervals. We all have had DBS checks and have completed Safeguarding Training.
For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **SOCIAL EVENTS**
The social committee is a sub group of the PCC and meet once a month to discuss upcoming events, we plan what we are going to do at each event and seek volunteers to run these events. They are a mix of fundraising events and social events to gather people together from both the church and the wider community. We have again had an emphasis on involving more children and families in our events this year. We have also aimed to try and host one fundraising event a month. Our events took a slow turn with the loss of our Father Mark.
January is a quiet month when we did very little – in order to get over Christmas!!!
February we held a tabletop sale, which was well attended and then cancelled everything else, due to the death of Father Mark.
March was a busy month with posy making for Mother’s Day, a creative crafts afternoon for children and families and a treasure hunt in the church and the agape supper, we combined our hot cross bun morning with a tabletop sale this month.
April this year we hosted a film and BBQ evening- although the weather was terrible and we ended up having pizza in the church hall, the film night was very successful and well attended by a mix of people.
May brought our first Car Boot sale which we are still refining the details of this was an excellent event with refreshments supplied by the church- bacon butties and a table in the hall with church stuff on. This was also the month of the 2[nd] boat canal trip organised by Les Dean, this was highly successful although the weather was not as warm as last year. We also hosted a VE Day afternoon Tea which brought in lots of the local community.
June saw the 2[nd] car boot sale, which was again a successful event.
July brought our summer fair and some fairly decent weather.
This event is one of our main fund-raising events along with the Christmas Fair. This year we had a variety of activities for both children and adults. Cadets marching band provided excellent entertainment, the local fire brigade brought their fire engine, and the owl man attracted many locals to the event. Rossmore school performed two sets of music. The bouncy castle provided lots of fun. We also had a dog show this year which brought many different people to the Church. The BBQ sold out of burgers and ice cream was well received and a little melted! This event needs volunteers to run and this largely depends on when people are on holiday, it also takes a lot of time to organise and prepare. Little Sutton Primary and Childer Thornton schools provided the decoration in church.
August is a quiet month as the schools are off and lots of the congregation are away on holiday.
September was the month that we hosted our first Artisan Market. This was a massive success, bring many of the community together with the congregation. Kath and the team sold refreshments and St Paul’s had a raffle and bits and bobs stall.
In October we hosted our harvest meal on a Sunday in the Church Hall after the service. This was well attended and a good church community event. Again, we hosted an Artisan Market.
November saw the ramp up to Christmas begin, with the Family Film Night at the end of the month. This was a very successful event and well attended. It really did put everyone in the Christmas spirit. We also held our annual Forum housing gift service sending over 100 bags of gifts the association, with speakers coming to Café Church. This year we combined our Christmas Fair with the Artisan Market. This was hugely successful. We ran a blind tombola, raffle and refreshments and raised a large amount of money for our church, the Christmas spirt was flowing!
Sarah T, assisted by Alex D hosted our second Christmas wreath making workshop which was a sell out. This was a great event to bring in local people that don’t necessarily attend the church and promote our upcoming December services.
December - singing in the pubs was well received again this year with the card machine working this year!
We look forward to another round next year!
For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **PARISH WALKING GROUP**
2025 had St Pauls Parish Walk Group visit a number of beauty spots, usually once a month. Leaders have been Mark Holmes (Chairman), Nicholas Revill (Parish Walk Subgroup Secretary) and Les Dean (Committee Member). We usually meet the 3rd Saturday of the month and sometimes 4th Saturday. It is a popular event, and attendance can be upwards of 15 to 20 members of St Pauls Church. Our visits are usually no more than 25 miles away from St Paul’s.
Here are some examples of places where we have visited in 2025:-
1.Hillbrae Island in the R. Dee Estuary.
2.Nercwys Forest and Hill near Mold in Wales.
3.Walk from Boat Inn Irbestock along the R. Dee Valley
4.Halkyn Mountain in North Wales with stunning views of Clwyd Mountains and over R. Dee Estuary
5.Near Chirck castle and walk along the Llangollen canal North Wales.
6.Daresbury near Warrington, Alice in Wonderland Trail.
7 Festive Xmas walk around Chester's city walls and Meal in the Ship Inn in Handbridge
Distance varies of up to 6 miles, depending on terrain and location.
The bottom line of all these walks (more could be listed) encourages our parishioners to go out and enjoy the countryside with healthy exercise. It also encourages greater fellowship within St Pauls. On a number of walks around least 3 walkers come along who we don’t normally see in Church. Mark Holmes had been very successful with walkers leadership and Nick Revill and Les Dean have been continuing the work of providing an excellent day out for our walkers group.
## **GOOD TO TALK**
‘It’s Good to Talk’ is led by Gwen and a team of helpers. We have been running for around 10 years on the last Thursday of every month at 1pm. Our numbers average 25-30 people at the sessions. In September we had afternoon tea in the Church Hall, which they all enjoyed and in December we had our special Christmas ‘It’s Good to Talk’ where we joined by the Women’s Fellowship.
We would like to thank all our helpers as without them we would not be able to carry on. We now look forward to the next twelve months
## **PUBLIC LIVING ROOM**
## **Monday Hub**
The number of people coming on a Monday on a regular basis has risen to an average of 15. They have taken ownership in many ways, bringing donations of food – sausage rolls, pasties, cakes, biscuits etc. and offering suggestions for activities. Along with donations from Asda, Morrisons and some purchases from Gwen and I, everyone is well fed. Last year we held quizzes, poetry, Bingo and birthday parties and enjoyed visiting singers. Quizzes and Bingo give rise to much hilarity, particularly as we cannot always find all the numbered balls and on one occasion the incorrect answers to the quiz had been photocopied. Chocolate is a popular prize!
One of our regular ladies whose birthday was on a Monday, was asked by her husband what she would like to do. She replied “to the hub of course” and then commented that it was the best birthday she had had. A young gentleman who has since moved away, was very shy initially, sitting to one side when a quiz was in progress. He slowly began to join in, would turn up first and then assist the ladies with seats etc.
A special mention should be made of Les Dean who helps to clear the chairs and tables and vacuums the carpet.
Gwen and I consider it a joy and a privilege to be able to carry on Father Marks vision.
For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **Wednesday Hub**
The Wednesday morning hub has always been a very unstructured meeting. It has catered for people to sit, chat and have a cuppa and cake, in a safe warm environment. People attending include those who have been to the communion prayer meeting held in the Lady Chapel, the Church Book Club members and at the beginning of the year, a number of ladies and their carers. On average we have 12 /14 people each week and the buzz of laughter and talk is a pleasure to be a part of.
## **SCHOOL CONNECTIONS**
We have a strong working relationship with Little Sutton CofE Primary School. September saw a new Headteacher at the school who is very enthusiastic about the close relationship with St. Paul’s.
Gwen has spent a lot of time over the last year working closely with reading and other activities. Little Sutton CofE Primary attend the Church building regularly for major Christian Festivals. Children from the School have assisted with our Family Eucharist Service.
In October 2024, Fr. Mark and Gwen Wale started a ‘Lego Church’ at lunchtime which in 2025 has become popular with years 1-4. This year there have been new children joining the group.
In 2025, firmer links have been made with Childer Thornton Primary, Rossmore Primary and Parklands Primary, who have all allowed Rev. Gillian Rossiter to attend regularly for assemblies and Collective Acts of Worship.
## **WORLD DAY OF PRAYER**
In March 2025, St Mary of the Angels was the host church for World Day of Prayer, Catherine Jones St Mary of the Angels Hooton with Hazel White from Little Sutton Methodist and Gwen from St. Paul’s. Each participant in the service with readings, prayers and hymns. Host for 2026 will be Little Sutton Methodist.
## **DEANERY SYNOD**
There were 3 meetings held in 2025 in different parishes within the deanery, The first meeting was in memory of Father Mark and included an evensong. The second and third covered various topics, such as diversity and modern slavery. There are currently three members Richard Soper, Sheena Wilson and Sarah Wood.
## **SAFEGUARDING**
The Parish reviewed and updated its safeguarding policy in 2025. The policy is in line with the Diocesan/National Church guidelines.
All members of the PCC have completed DBS checks and have completed a program of Safeguarding Training.
Gwen continues to act as Safeguarding coordinator for the parish assisted by Beryl. All noticeboards have been updated with the new logo **Speak Out, Stay Safe**
## **DUKE OF EDINBURGH VOLUNTEERS**
This year we continued to encourage young people to volunteer at our church.
We had four volunteers, two completing their bronze award helping with the refreshments, one volunteering for a year with the cleaning of the hall and one volunteering as server in Church for communion. This has enabled them to make connections with older people and improve communication skills. We would like to thank them for all their hard work.
For the year ended 31 December 2025
## **FINANCIAL REPORT 2025**
As we continued to engage in a new way of thinking and living here at St. Pauls’, it gives me great pleasure to reflect on the amazing faithfulness and sacrificial generosity of the people of St Paul’s. The PCC would like to thank each and every one of you for the wonderful financial support you have given to the church in 2025. We have felt empowered, affirmed and have shown that together, as believers, we are stronger. We are slowly seeing the financial impact of what this vibrant parish is offering, we have all given generously with our money, time and fundraising efforts. Your generosity has again enabled the church to grow in so many ways, to pay most of our bills, salaries, and commitments, as well as supporting our mission partners. We have engaged in various fundraising activities including hosting a car boot sale, film night, quiz nights, Messy Church and the introduction of the monthly Artisan Markets beginning in September. The events have been welcomed by our parishioner’s and the wider community, we still believe that our vision is achievable.
A copy of the full financial report is attached, the main highlights are, total expenditure for 2025 amounted to £110,801, total income for 2025 amounted to £137,610. A net surplus of £26,808. Our Parish Share for 2025 was £6467.06 per month. Due to insufficient funds available, payment of the full Parish Share was not sustainable, the PCC asked the Diocese if it was possible to reduce to £1,000 per month, as we wanted to be able to keep the church open and functioning, the Diocese agreed to a reduced monthly fee. From January to May a £1,000 per month was paid, June to September we increased the monthly amount to £3233.53, due to a healthier position the amount was increased in October back to the full amount of £6467.06, we agreed a review of this monthly. As the church is now accessible again with the temporary repair of the Dome we are looking toward to a more stabilised future, being able to offer services for Weddings, Baptisms and Funerals generating more income.
We must also say thanks to our parish administrators, Sarah Wood and Tommy Tempest, who have kept the treasurer informed of income and expenditure and have managed the daily accounting/office tasks required competently. Sarah Wood is also our parish planned giving officer. Sarah Wood has now become familiar with the new My Fund Accounting system and is inputting the monthly transactions which are then reconciled by the treasurer. This separation of duties is good financial practice.
We have not applied for any grants over the past year but have been successful in securing a refund on the VAT for the Dome repair. It is the intention of the PCC to become more proactive in applying for grants over the next year.
We have also been successful in securing 2 small insurance claims, one for the initial survey of cleaning of the Dome at the start of the year and the second for the repair to our St Paul Statue.
Over this last year we have achieved a lot of valuable improvements to St Paul’s which has only been possible due to the church hall being hired every day together with your incredible fundraising and generosity with our church events.
The list is just a flavour of what we have achieved:
- Dead Wooding Trees in the Church Yard
- Dome Repair (temporary)
- Replacement of Security Lights Outside of church
- Refurbishment of the Church Hall Floor
- Recovered the noticeboards throughout the Church Hall
- Renegotiated the gas and electricity contracts to make savings
- Renegotiated the telephone contracts and installed new broadband in the Church hall
- Painted the Church Hall porch
- We have supported a number of charities again this year, including:
- Macmillan Cancer Support, Ellesmere Port Food Bank, Children’s Society Christmas Boxes (Christingle)
As we grow in numbers as well as in service, may I make an appeal to those who enjoy our church, who may not be doing so already, to please consider making a commitment to regular giving by way of a standing order, direct debit, internet banking, or other means. If you are a UK taxpayer, please consider completing a Gift Aid form, which enables the church to claim back an extra 25% from HMRC. Forms are available at the back of the church, and it only takes a couple of minutes to complete or alternatively speak with our planned giving officer Sarah Wood.
For the year ended 31 December 2025
**PCC Members** who served from 1[st] January 2025 to 31[st] December 2025 are:
Ex-Officio Members **Incumbent:** Rev Mark RJ Turner (January and February) Reverend Canon Gillian Rossiter, Associate Minister (from June) **Curate:** Reverend Jo Pemberton **Church Wardens** : Alex Duffey, Mark Holmes **Deanery Synod Reps** : Sheena Wilson (from April), Sarah Wood, Richard Soper **Elected Members** : Lynne Bergin – Secretary Sarah-Jane Turner – Treasurer (Jan – Oct) Joy Edge (from April and Treasurer from Oct) Sarah-Jane Turner Jo Byrne Beryl Tidbury (from April) Nicholas John Revill Wendy Holmes Jane Sheehy David McCormick Gwendoline Wale Jeanette Cain Kath Hitchmough (Jan – April) Jan Barnett (Jan – Feb)
**St Paul**
## **Analysis of Receipts and Payments Selected period: 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025**
||**Total**
**General**
**Designated**
**Restricted**
**Endowment**
**This year**
**Last year**|
|---|---|
|**Receipts**
**Donations and legacies**
0101 - Gift Aid - Bank
0110 - Gift Aid - Envelopes
0201 - Other planned giving
0301 - Loose plate collections
0302 - Loose Plate Baptism
0410 - Giving through church boxes
0501 - One-off Gift Aid gifts
0550 - Donations appeals etc
0601 - Tax recoverable on Gift Aid
0701 - Legacies
0801 - Recurring grants
08A1 - Non-recurring one-off grants
0901 - Other funds generated
0902 - Open Church Donations
0903 - Car Boot
0904 - Church Yard Giving
0911 - Events - Community ( eg fairs )
**Donations and legacies Totals**
**Income from charitable activities**
0910 - Events - Social
1101 - Fees for weddings and funerals
1102 - Wedding & Funeral Mileage
1103 - Wedding & Funerals - Verger
1104 - Weddings & Funerals - Organist
1105 - Wedding & Funeral - Heating
1106 - Wedding & Funeral - CD Copyright
1107 - Wedding & Funerals Stonemason
1108 - Fallon nameplate
1109 - FUNERAL GRAVE DIG
1110 - WEDDING & FUNERALS VIDEO
1111 - Wedding & Funerals Bells
1230 - Church hall lettings - objectives
**Income from charitable activities Totals**
**Other trading activities**
1240 - Church hall lettings - fund raising
1250 - Magazine income - advertising
1260 - Parish magazine sales
1270 - 100 Club
**Other trading activities Totals**|19,827.12
-
500.00
-
20,327.12
20,274.50
14,285.69
-
-
-
14,285.69
11,757.01
442.73
-
225.00
-
667.73
2,469.26
7,705.04
-
-
-
7,705.04
8,120.33
-
-
-
-
-
1,032.00
893.12
-
-
-
893.12
823.46
1,230.00
-
2,000.00
-
3,230.00
964.00
2,761.66
-
2,088.00
-
4,849.66
7,562.35
10,030.72
-
-
-
10,030.72
9,622.69
1,000.00
-
435.00
-
1,435.00
300.00
2,552.55
-
4,978.15
-
7,530.70
11,055.40
-
-
2,000.00
-
2,000.00
1,464.02
5,322.19
-
335.00
-
5,657.19
12,652.38
18.00
-
-
-
18.00
639.00
-
-
-
-
-
472.00
-
-
150.00
-
150.00
605.00
618.00
-
-
-
618.00
2,060.70|
||**66,686.82**
**-**
**12,711.15**
**-**
**79,397.97**
**91,874.10**
159.99
-
-
-
159.99
241.75
14,513.92
-
-
-
14,513.92
11,432.00
895.00
-
-
-
895.00
310.67
1,480.00
-
-
-
1,480.00
790.00
2,813.00
-
-
-
2,813.00
1,320.00
1,729.00
-
-
-
1,729.00
525.00
775.00
-
-
-
775.00
500.00
712.00
-
-
-
712.00
933.00
1,380.68
-
-
-
1,380.68
468.00
-
-
-
-
-
65.00
50.00
-
-
-
50.00
100.00
-
-
-
-
-
40.00
-
-
-
-
-
1,021.00|
||**24,508.59**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**24,508.59**
**17,746.42**
27,318.06
-
-
-
27,318.06
13,456.62
97.00
-
-
-
97.00
-
604.39
-
-
-
604.39
970.64
4,245.03
-
-
-
4,245.03
2,465.72|
||**32,264.48**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**32,264.48**
**16,892.98**|
(6 May 2026 11:47 am) Page 1 of 3
||**Total**
**General**
**Designated**
**Restricted**
**Endowment**
**This year**
**Last year**|
|---|---|
|**Investments**
1001 - Dividends
1020 - Bank and building society interest
**Investments Totals**
**Other income**
1310 - Insurance claims
**Other income Totals**
**Receipts Grand Totals**|-
929.92
-
-
929.92
-
219.66
-
-
-
219.66
1,291.35|
||**219.66**
**929.92**
**-**
**-**
**1,149.58**
**1,291.35**
289.90
-
-
-
289.90
-|
||**289.90**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**289.90**
**-**|
||**123,969.45**
**929.92**
**12,711.15**
**- 137,610.52**
**127,804.85**|
|**Payments**
**Raising funds**
1701 - Fees paid to fund raisers
1720 - Costs of stewardship campaign
1725 - Cost of Digital Giving
1730 - Costs of fetes & other events
**Raising funds Totals**
**Expenditure on charitable activities**
1850 - Home mission
1870 - Secular charities
1910 - Ministry parish share etc
2001 - Assistant staff costs
2050 - Salary of parish administrator
2051 - Salary - Incumbent PA
2052 - Salary - Verger
2053 - Salary - Grave Digger
2060 - NI Costs parish administrator
2061 - NI - Incumbent PA
2063 - NI - Grave Digger
2101 - Working expenses of incumbent
2120 - Council tax
2130 - Parsonage house expenses
2140 - Water rates - vicarage
2170 - Education
2201 - Parish training and mission
2202 - Fallon nameplate
2310 - Church office - telephone
2320 - Organ / piano tuning
2330 - Church maintenance
2331 - Cleaning
2340 - Upkeep of services
2341 - UPKEEP OF WARM HUB
2350 - Upkeep of churchyard
2360 - Administration
2370 - Visiting speakers / locums
2401 - Church running - electric
2410 - Church running - gas|242.00
-
-
-
242.00
204.94
456.01
-
-
-
456.01
232.98
-
-
-
-
-
44.46
96.86
-
-
-
96.86
-|
||**794.87**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**794.87**
**482.38**
-
-
-
-
-
80.00
504.55
-
-
-
504.55
-
39,568.83
-
-
-
39,568.83
32,423.50
-
-
-
-
-
40.00
6,157.07
-
-
-
6,157.07
6,019.35
9,188.39
-
-
-
9,188.39
10,923.66
120.00
-
-
-
120.00
350.00
-
-
-
-
-
2,552.00
-
-
-
-
-
231.68
700.41
-
-
-
700.41
436.80
-
-
-
-
-
198.16
1,081.86
-
-
-
1,081.86
2,484.10
2,058.61
-
-
-
2,058.61
2,727.54
2,607.81
-
-
-
2,607.81
747.73
870.65
-
-
-
870.65
1,659.45
-
-
-
-
-
34.32
210.39
-
-
-
210.39
-
926.41
-
-
-
926.41
163.12
1,328.19
-
-
-
1,328.19
1,307.97
60.00
-
-
-
60.00
150.00
3,728.96
-
-
-
3,728.96
3,335.62
-
-
-
-
-
2,364.90
5,835.10
-
-
-
5,835.10
14,810.04
1,039.00
-
-
-
1,039.00
500.00
888.00
-
-
-
888.00
788.05
5,095.09
-
-
-
5,095.09
2,649.53
1,409.83
-
-
-
1,409.83
1,058.40
901.42
-
-
-
901.42
(365.98)
13,219.40
-
-
-
13,219.40
12,734.90|
(6 May 2026 11:47 am) Page 2 of 3
||**Total**
**General**
**Designated**
**Restricted**
**Endowment**
**This year**
**Last year**|
|---|---|
|2420 - Church running - water
2440 - Church running - heating and lighting
2530 - Hall running - electricity
2540 - Hall running - gas
2560 - Hall running - maintenance
2580 - Hall running - water
2590 - Hall running - heating and lighting
2601 - Governance costs examination/audit fee
2701 - Church major repairs - structure
2720 - Church interior and exterior decorating
2830 - Hall + interior and exterior decorating
2840 - Other PCC property upkeep
**Expenditure on charitable activities Totals**
**Other expenditure**
1750 - 100 Club
9999 - Corrections
**Other expenditure Totals**
**Payments Grand Totals**|923.01
-
-
-
923.01
753.02
-
-
-
-
-
633.00
576.36
-
-
-
576.36
-
517.91
-
-
-
517.91
1,515.16
1,055.14
-
-
-
1,055.14
145.24
163.54
-
-
-
163.54
-
853.20
-
-
-
853.20
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,872.80
4,946.40
-
-
-
4,946.40
-
-
-
-
-
-
200.00
3,342.00
-
-
-
3,342.00
-
241.80
-
-
-
241.80
2,192.72|
||**110,119.33**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**110,119.33**
**107,716.78**
208.00
-
-
-
208.00
245.00
(320.25)
-
-
-
(320.25)
-|
||**(112.25)**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**(112.25)**
**245.00**|
||**110,801.95**
**-**
**-**
**- 110,801.95**
**108,444.16**|
(6 May 2026 11:47 am) Page 3 of 3
Independent Examlner's report
Accounts for the year ended 31•t December 2025
Respectlve re8ponslbllities of the Trustees and the examiner
The charity's tfustees are responsible forthe preparation ofthe accounts and they considerthat an audit
is not required for the year under section 144121 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an
independent examination is needed. It is my responsibilityto:
Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act
to followthe procedures laid down in the general directions given bythe Charity Commission (under
section 145{5llb) ofthe Charities Act. 8nd
to state whether particular matters have come to myattention.
Basls of the Independent Examiner'$ statement
My examination was carried out in accordancewith the general directions gfven by the Charity
Commission. An examination include5 a review ofthe accounting records kept bythe charityand a
comparison ofthe accounts presented with these records. It also includes consideration of any unusual
items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning such
mattgrs. The procedures undertaken do not provide allthe evidence thatwould be required foran audit,
and consequently no opinion is given as to whetherthe accounts present a'true and fair, view and the
report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent examiner's statement
In connection with my ex8mlnation, no material matter has come to my attention which gives mg cause
to believe that in, any material respect:
I have come across no pmatters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn
in order to enable a proper und8rstanéingofthe accounts to be reached.
Date: 3rd May 2026
Signed:
£ r+,"
Sharon Taylor-Booth