TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHESHUNT ST MARY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Cheshunt Churchgate, Cheshunt, Herts EN8 9NB Charity Number 1134781 Contents Agendas for the Annual Parochial Church Meetings Minutes of the Meetings held on 12 May 2024 Trustees Annual Report PCC Report Financial Review Financial Report Independent Examiner's Report Financial Report Notes to the Financial Report Annual Report of the Cheshunt Deanery Synod
Agenda of theAnnual Parochial Church paeeting In St Mary the Virgin. Cheshunt Sunday 11 May 2025 following the 10 am Eucharlst Appointment of Cleik to the meeting. Circulation of lists of attendance and apologies. ANNUAL rEETING OF PARISHIONERS Minutes of theAnnual Meeting of Parishioners hekl on Sunday 12 May 2024. Mattels arising from those minutes. Election of Churchwardens for the coming year. Report on the Cheshunt Chuthardens Charities. Daté of Next Meeting, ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEEnNG Mhiutes of theAPCM held on Sunday 12 May 2024. Matters arising from those minutes. 10. To re1ve from the PCC wlth the opportunty to discuss a) Report on the Electoral Roll. b) TheAnnual report of the PCC including FabTlC. Goods and Ornament, and Safeguarding c) The independently examined financial slatements foF the year ended 31st December 2024. d)A Report on the proceedings of the Cheshunt Deanery Synod. a) Elect up to 3 Parochial representstives of the laty to the PCC. b) Elect 2 people forthe Deanery Synod c} Appoint an Independent Examiner for the ensuing year at a remuneration to be fixed by the PCC. 11. 12. Any Other Business. (Any items proper to the Mting not relating to the above agenda). 13. Clergy Charge 14. Date of Next Meeting. 15. Closing Prayer.
MINUTESOF THE ANNUAL MEETGs OF THE PARISH QF ST..MARY THEVIRG, CHESHUNT HELD IN ST. MARY'S CHURCH ON SUNDAY 12th May 2024 C&airnthll: The Reyd. Eugene Hansbaw Clerk to t&e Meetuig: Helen Palmer Tho meetillg was pEeceded by 10am Eucharist. l. It was iinaniniotvsly can7ed by thi w¢seT)t at the meeting that le PalmeT be appoinled Clerk to the meetin& 2. The 4lltlldAnee 4pologie8 li8lswere cireulaled. In att¢ndance: _ Femi Awotcsu, IÈU BaTkway, Audtey BertLqrd, Maleen Brnce, kndrEw Clarke, WIctoria Clarke, Trevor Coombs, Marian Coombs, Angela Corl¢tL Angela Dronyij, Palrick FIver, Lyr¢ne Flower. Maureen Cedge, Jlle Haynes. TTevoi'.Hector, Pat.Higgiiis, Terry Hoare, Marion Hoare, Jeffrey laws0 Carol Le4 Roy Lco, Carole Parks, Geofftey Parks, l)oris Ridg¢w¢ll, Nornian Rttd, Jill Shaw, EIFzabeth Sugg, Trnndell, Mark Warner, Samantlia WhoTIow Apologi¢s: _ Elspeth Ellli& Ednft Oake ANNUAL MEETING OF PARlSHtONERS 3. Minules of the ADnual MeeliN8 af Parishiovrs beld on 14th May 2023 The D)inuÉ¢s oflhfts meetlDg were agreed and signed as & COTre¢t r¢cord with COEr¢ciions. Ptoposed by Elizabeth Sugg Seconded by JelTrey Lawson. Carri¢d unanitnously 4. Mxtters knysing. None 5. Ele¢tigll of Churehwardens for the Colg Year Fr. Elle tbauLTd Victoria Clarke and ADgela DrOj for theiE help over ihe pbst year. Nominations were received for Victoria Clarke, proposed by Geofftey Parks and Seconded by Patrick Flower aud Angela Dronyij? proposed by.Patricia HiggiDS, seconded by Maureen Bne. There being no furthernominations it was unartiniously agTEd that Victoria Clarke and Ang¢l8 Dronyi be duly elected as chhward¢S 6. Report the Cknghunt Cburekrdes Cha171i¢s Accouots are available to read. Victoria Clarke report¢d thatthere ar¢ funds available for li via the chuhWardclls Chariti¢s and colag¢S the use of tliese. Siibinissions for eth?sideration for grants can be 8iibmitted to the ChuT¢hwardens 7. Dite ofNext Meetiug It was announced Ih&t ihe date of th¢ Rext meeting will be Sunday I l May J125 Ther¢ being no fiirther business the meeting was djared closcd.
ANNUALPAROCHIALCIIURCHMEETING In ai*ndaAce: _ Femi AwfAesw Jill Barkivay. Audr¢y Bern&4 .MaurttA Bruce, ARdrew Clarkg Vidorsu Clark¢, Tor Coomb4 Mayian Coombs, Angela Corlett, Ang¢ta Dronyij.. Patrick Flower: Lynne Flower. M1r¢en Gedg¢, June Haynes, Trevor Hector. Pat Higgins, T¢ny Hoar4 Marion Hoar4 Jthy Lawson. Lee, Roy Lee, Carole Parks, Geoffrey Parks, Doris Ridgewell. Nonw Reed. Shaw, Eltzabeth Sug& Rosawry T¥ulldeIl, Mark Wallr, S190th& Whodow ApolOes. _ Elspeih Elllis, Edna 08ke 8. The of th¢ meetin¥ hehl 14th May 2023 We age41 following ¢oTr¢ctions and signed as a cortcct re¢d. Proposed by Trevorcoombs seconded by Carole Parks. Carrfted nlMoty 9. Mhtters Arising from thoso mifjuteo None I(1. To TEceive from the PCC wilh the opportsnlty to diJ¢u&s Report onth¢ Hedoral Roll Th¢ niimber on the electoral roll rernAsns at 98 although we lost a few names from theroll over th¢ past yeai" th¢y havtt beth YeplaLed by new people If yoii koow anyon¢ who woiild like to trdke a MOK activ¢ rolc in the rhurch and is not already on th¢ mll, please encolage them to fill oirt a forni found at Ihe back of ¢hiwch and hand Jt to me: Yoii need to have your e on the ele¢toYal roll for at least 6 months befo you can become ¢ligible to join the PCC A reminder tbat next year thcr¢ wtll be a fiill revision of th¢ clectoral Toll and everyone will be r¢qiitr¢d Éo fill a new forni if the wish lo remain on the electornl Toll Lynne Flower Electoral Roll Offi¢or Fr. Eugene thank Lyniie Flower, the Electoral Roll for all her work. The Annual report of the PCC Please refer to the document entitled Report of the PCC to the Annual Meetlng 2022 ft>r detall. This Included reports on the Fabylc, Goods and Ornaments of the Church and Safeguarding (given by Vlctoria Clarke Churchwardenl Tthe Independently examlned financial statements for the year ended 31st Oecember 2023. Geoff Parkes Okir Flnantial Officer gave the report of the linances of the church. The'financial positlon of thè church during 2023. rem3iTrs precarious. Pte35e refer to the financial report for full detail. The f1Th3nces of the church remalry on 3 knlfe edge the predicted defKit was much larger than predicted because of multlple restoration project5 in the church anif Portatabin. It was necessary to dip into reserves to cover the cost of the.se It is estimated that we need an addition 20.1 In fundyaislng this year Just to stand still The largest amount of monies that we have received thus far comes from legacies The curates house can be put on the letting market as soon as Rev E5COtt leaves TFI asked about the possiblllty of installing solar panels on the church roof to offset energy costs. This is being looked at by the diocese, however the structural engineers report for this will be significant.
At preserrt the Parish buying scheme Elves u5 the best possible reduction on energy bius. Grateful thanks glven to Geoff for all that he has done and is <loing for the church. For personal reasons he would like to pass the role of finan officeron to someone else. d) A Yeport on Fahrlc goods and ornaments The churchwarden gave the report whlth is complete with the exteptlon of adding the restored AumbrÈy lamp which was forgotten. Thanks to the Parlsh Hollday cornmlttee for providing funds for the restoratlon e) Sateguarding. Safeguarding is an agenda item at every PCC meeting. All PCC members need to be compliant in training for safeguardlng. Thls can be completed vla the Diocese of St. Albans Web sste. F) Che5hunt l)eanery Synod athlngto report g) Our chur¢h Ufe. Iformerty A$pe¢ts of Parlsh Kfe) Fr. Eugene made reference to the dlscrepancy in the funeral figures on Page 11. The drop in numbers In due to a problem wlth one of our local funeral dlrector5 who owe not Jusl SL Marys, butother churches, coThslderable amDfints of money. This mean5 we are nottaking funerals from this particular funeral director. The matter is in the hands of the dloce5an reglstrars. 11. a) Elect up to 3 Parocmal representatlve5 of the lafty to the Parochlal Church Councll PatrFck Flower and Roy Lee were duly elected. All Dther members tontlnue thelr current term of offlce b) Appoint an Independent flnanclal Examiner for the ensuing ¥eaT at a remuneratlon to be set by the PCC. Steve Sell Kra5 duly elected again at a fee of £110 AOB.Non¢. Clergy Ch8r8e. As Father Eugone prepares to fftove i)D he talk¢d about cli4Dg¢ and how patith should embiace the oppottTrllity for this. He thanked Fr. Mark for all that he has broiight to the church and to his own tntnisty Fr. Maik C[ed in prdyer at12.12
TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2024 Our aims and purposes as a. charity The PCC of St Ma¥rfs Cheshunt has the responsibility of c(>-operating w£th the incunthent In promoting the whole mission ofthe Church, pastoral. evangefical, social and ecumenical. The Trustees have had due regard to guidance published by the Chaiity Commission on public benefft. The purpose of our charty is to promote the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and Practi of the Chuich of England. Our aim is to fuffill Ihis purpose by worshipping reverently, inclusively and accessibly, communlcating our message effectively. being available to the community, by managing parish afrairs responsibly and by caring for our historic buiFding. How we fulfilled this aim in 2024 Worshlp 2024 was a year oftwo halves as Rev Eugene left the parish in June In the fifst half of the church our pattem of v40rship continued as it had done previousty. Morning Prayer was available for three weekday mornings. Eucharists were held on Tuesday evenings (BCP), Thw5day momings (Said) and on Sunday momings 8am (Said) and 10am (Sung Eucharist). A non-Eucharist famity servick was hekl on the 4th Sunday of the month. If there was a fifth Sunday in the month a Team servi was held in one of the four churches in the Cheshunt Team (expt in March when it fell on Easter Day) The formal 10am Sunday seyvice usually had a full altar party with Sub-Deacon and the music was provided by the organ. Nunibers at this se1 remned steady. The family service brought in new faS including children. The nave astar was used for most seNices. Children's work continued to be supported by a once-a-month session in the Parish Office where Ihe gospel story was considered and activities enjoyed. The children's activity boxes in church continued to be popular. and now contain the weekly "Redemptoiist" sheet with puzzles etc linked tts Ihe weekly gospel. Plans for a group of older children meeting occasionally in the Wicarage did not flourish.
Spiritual growth was encouraged by the Lent course, shared within the Cheshunt Team, as well as reading suggestions from Rev Matk Escott the Curate. The Cheshunt Team organlzed on-line WoiEhip during Advènt, Followtng thè departure of Rev Eugene in June and Rev Mark in July the number of services was limited to Thursdays at 11am and Sundays at 10am. We were grateful to Rev Teresa the Team Rector who covered for Thursday seNices until her reliremetrt in September and to the visiting cleigy who Covered for Sundays. When no member of the clergy was availabte a se¥vice of Motning Prayer was led by one of our two Lay Leaders of Worship, Andrew Clarke and TeTry Hoare. Information about church services and activities is available through the °Church Near You" web- site, social media and a monthty on-line newsletter. Community With the help of visiting clergy, St Mary's was able to continue to offer funeral services to those wha sought the consolation of a church funeral (16 funerals). A memorial service and a wedding were also lebrated and there were 30 baptisms. Th8 community was welcomed tnto the church for social and fund-raising events including table top sales, concerts and summer and autumn fayres. The weekly coffee morning and the men's Fish and Chip evenings also provided an opportunity for outreach . Particularly popular were the children's event8, "Bunny Fun", a free activity moming for children on the Saturday before Palm Sunday, and "Tea with Santa" a Christmas get-together for 50 children in the church. Residents at local care homes continued to come into church for their regular ROCCS SeN[S, which were run by a member of the con9regation afteT Rev Mart<s departure. The church was also used by schools for curriculum visits as well as Harvest Services and Christmas events. Our statistics show about 1500 people attended school events in the run-up to Christmas. We also welcomed the children from Tiny Toes Nursery for a Harvest Visit. Membets of the congregation visited the Kingfisher Nursing Home to sing crt2rols and chat to fesidents in December. The thurch supported various charities over the year with speu.al events or collections, notably Cl{s, Shelterbox, Ihe Bishop's HatvestAppeal and the Jamalca Hurilcane appeal. Management The financial situation of the church continues to be fragile, as revealed in the finan report. Steps taken to minimlze expenditure included a new photocopier conlract and replacement of the Offi computer. Regular reports in the monthty newsletter allow members of the congregation to be aware of the financial situation. Members of the congregation have been encouraged to donate via the Parish Giving Scheme. It should ba noted that no Stewardship Renewal Campaign has been undertaken for at least 8 years. The PCC met regularly to oversee expenditure and deal with issues arising.
The process for appointing Rev Eugene's replacement began in February when the Church WaTdens mel with Archdeacon Janet explained the procedu. Jane, Bishop of Hertford came to hold the official Va&ancy Meeting. on 30 April. Subsequently, the PCC prepared a Patish Profile which was approved by the Bishop and then an Advert for a new Vicar was posted on the Diocesan Web Site and on Pathways, the national site for clergy vacancies. ]ficky Clathe and Patrick Flower byere appointed as Paiish repTesenlaltves and shortlisting and interviews took place in December. We were all delighted that Rev Elizabeth Fellows had bn appointed but this infomiation was embargoed until January 2025. Fabric Regular servicing and cleaning took pla throughout the year but no major fabrlc projects were undertaken in 2024. The planning for the toilets in the tower continued. A lot of work was done by members of the congregation preparing Ihe curate's house, 4a Goffs Lane, for reletting. folk)wing Rev Mark's departure. This saved the parish a lot of expenditure and the PCC were very grateful. Work was also needed on the portacabin (which contains the Parish oifice and toilet). Aims and Objectives for 2025 The main aim for 2025 is to welcome a new Vicar and to work with her to continue with our purpose of proclaiming the gospel. Structure, governance and management of the charity The PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Mary the Ifirgin Cheshunt is a registered charity No 1134781 Its goveming document in the Parochial Church Counclls (Powers) Measure 1956 During the year the following served as mernber of the Parochtal Church Council Ex OffiGiO Member: Incumbent The Revd Eugene Hanshaw Assistant Curate: The Revd. Mark Escott Church Wardens:_ Victoria Clarke and Angela Dronyi E16¢ted Members Jill Barkway. Angela Corlett, Patrick Flower. Pat Htggins, Marion Howe, Jefftey Lawson. Roy Lee, Helen Palmer, Sam IAlhorlow Geoffrey Parks, Elizabeth Sugg Deanery Synod Appointed Officers Chair of Finance Geoffrey Parks
Electoral Roll Officer Lynne Flower vto[la Clarke Safeguarding Officer PCC Secretary Relieshments OfficEr Helen Palmer Pat Higgins SALARIEDAPPOINTMENT None FEE PAID STAFF Cleaner Fay Metin Caroline Sayer-Thomas, David Boaider Victoria Gibson-musk Oiganists Funeral Verger Membership ofthe PCC is detemiined under the Church Represenlats'on Rules and consists of ex- officio members and up to nine membets of the church who are elected at IheAnnual Parochial Church Meeting. SUB-cOMMIEEs OF THE PCC Temis of reference for the Standing Committee, the Fabric and Premises Committee and the Worship Committee were agreed in September 2023, but there were no meetings duiing 2024. MANAGEMENT OF RISKS The PCC has noted the requirement to identify risks, vthith rf Ignored. may come to bear adversely upon the life of St MarWs. These iisks are not merely financial but include other concems. A risk management report was prepared by ecclesiastical insurers in September 2024 whlch raised no co[erS. The Trustees, to the best of their knowledge and belief, advise Ihal there have been no serious financial Incidents (as deflned by ttr(e Charity Commission) during the year 2024 relating to our charity which have not been brought to the attention of the Chatity Commission. The Trustees, Annual Report was approved by the PCC at the meeting on 14 April And signed on their behalf by vtorIa Clarke (Church Warden and Lay co-chair) Angela Dron i (Church Wdrden)
PCC Report for the year ending 31 December 2024 The PCC metfive times in 2024. IAatters discussed included the debate about °Living in Love and Faith" (the COE thinking on same sex marriage)- After Rev Eugene's departure there was a lot of discussion of the PaTÉsh PI0fe, as well as service afTangements during the vacancy. After Rev Mark's departure the woik necessary on the Curate's house was also dcuSSed. Finan and safeguarding e on Éhe agenda ft>r every meeting. VKky Clarke and Patrick Flower were appointed as Parish Representattves for the purpose of shofllisting and Interviewing (zndidates for the post of Vicar. Other members of the PCC took part during the interviews so that as many as possible had had a chance to meet th8 candidates. Fabric, Goods and Ornaments The Church Vvardens have (fischarged their duties under sections 4 and 5 of the Care of Churches and Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Measure 1991 to maintain all appropiiate records relating to the fabric of the church building and its conterkts and to inspect the fabrtc of the building. During 2024 regular servicing and inspections were caffied out as follows'_ Gas inspection (26.9), Roof alarm (Aug), organ blower motor (25.11), FiTe Extinguishers (10.12). Gutters and gullies are cleaned regularly. In May Ihe Church INardens attended Diocesan Training on Church Maintenance in StAndrew's Hertford. The emphasis was on drains and roofs and subsequently Liz West visited St Mary's to see our situation. At thetr meeting on 22 July, the PCC voted to proceed with the Project of re-ordering the west end of the church (Baptistry) in accordan with the proposals from Hanslip &Co. It was decided that a full lighting survey was needed and steps were taken to arrange this but it was carried over to next year. The Inventory was amended by the addition of the televisiori used forthe ROCCS Servi and the new Easter Candle Stand made by Mich1 Thotpe. Church deaning lakes place regularty on the first Saturday ofthe month. Thanks to Caiole Parks who co-ordinates this and to everyone who tums up to help. Safeguardtng The PCC has complied with the duty under s5 of the Safeguaiding and CleFgy Disclpline Measure 2016 (duty to have due regaid to the House of Bishops, guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).
At the neting on 8th January 2024 Ihe following policies were read and agfeed -_ ' Policy for Responding to Domesttc Abuse 2024, Policy for Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults 2024, Policy ftsr Safeguarding Children 2024. Safeguarding training continued on-line and in the Vtcarage. Vicky (Parish Safeguarding Off. ) attended Safeguarding Leadership training in StAlbans in September. New National Standards guidelines are coming into force and will be discussed over the next years. New training guidelines are also being implemented soon. Safeguarding is a standing ite.m on each PCC Agenda and Vicky reports on any new information in the Diocesan Safeguarding Newsletter (though this now comes in a non-printable format). Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 14th April 2025 And signed on its behall Mrs Victoria Clafke (PCC Lay Co Chair)(Church Warden) Ms Angela Dronyi (Church Warden)
HUNT ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE DEANERY SYNOD- 2024 Rural Dean: Revd. Chris KNgour (St. Thomas a Becket Northaw with SL Andrew Cuffleyi Lay Chalrman: Mrs Glllian Hutchinson (St. Clement, Turnford) Honorary Secretary &.Treasurer' Mss Dorothy Ayre (SL CuthberL Rye Parkl Meetln SYD0. The t*anery Synod met on three occasions during 2023. February via Zoom June at Tumford . October at Br(Ixlx)ume 12 February -The Treasurer gave an up to date report on the Finan, with curtent funds hekl £5,400.44. She reminded us that there was £289.50 still available through Deanery Hub Grants for parishes to claim to assist with outreach events that are focussed on families, children or schools work. Voting would shortly open to appolnt new Dlocesan Synod Representatives. Applications for Su$tantlal1Y reduced prlce tontactless machines were now open to apply for at £50. Each parlsh was asked to give their reflectk)ns on their Advent and Chrlstsnas events and looklng forward ' to Lent and Easter. All parlshes reported an upllft In visitors, and It was felt that people were returning to normal pre-COVID attendance. See reports below. Notlces were glven about 17 February Muslcal Workshop at Hoddesdon Church with Noel Tredlnnick followod by Sunday Morning worship with St. Cuthber¥& l March was World Day of Prayer prepared by people of Palestine at St. Cuthberfs In the mornin9 and St. Laurence In the evening. 25 Aprll was the LinSIng of Revd. Ash at St. Augustlne's. We We advised that Revd. Teresa would be retin'ng from Chrlst Church, Waltham Cross on 29 September. 24 June AGM - Held at Turnford together with Eucharsstic and Social time and refreshment with offi5 from the parlshes. Reports were received from the Treasurer with end of year accounts showlng funds held of £5,131.20 thls included £2,889.50 Deanery Hub Grants awaiting distribution to parlshes for varlous Youth/Children's minlstry- During 2023 £1,250 had been paid out in Grants. Rural Dean's expenses and Administrator Support pald out had been relmbursed by the Diocese. We had to find a new Independent Examiner as Paul Scarl)orough had moved away, and we were able to obtaln the liCeS of Simon Ross, a Chartered Accountant, also the husband of Rev(l. Heather Ross, Curate at st. Cuthberfs. Thè Standinglmlssion and Pastoral Committee had met on Iwo occasion5 to (fiscuss the result of the sutvey about Meeb'ng dates and the format of our meettngs, and Pastoral Aid Grants for 2024. Incumbents and Treasurers met to revlew the Parish Share Factor which they declded to leave the same. Elections to DI0San Synod had taken place for both ClerfJl and Lay Representatives for the next Trlennium. Those elected were Clergy - Chris Kilgour, Helen Bryan and Tom Lilley, Laty - Jeremy Pearce and 3111 Hempleman. We were advised that Revd. Chris Kllgour would be on Sabbatical from l July, Revd. Nick Sharp would be standlng in as Rural Dean, Revd. Eugene Hanshaw had moved on from Cheshunt Parish and Revd. Mark Escott would be leaving Cheshilnt at the end of July and would be LiceSed a5 Vicar of St. Catherine and St. Paul, Hoddesdon in September. Archdeacon's Visitations had been postponed until October 7 Ortober~ We welcomed Jacob and Corrine who offered a presentation on the DIocn Dispute Advisory SeDIFce. Conflct occurs in all areas of life, and the church is not immune, and it can be a Sour of intense disappointment. They offered a number of narIo5 of what conflitt Tnay look like in our churches. One of
Reports from the paris1. Cuffley A good number of people thyough the doors for the mldnlght and Chrfsbitss momlng - c. 80 people all dlfferent. Lent - runnlng The blble o]urse Easter putting details together. st ClemenÈ's Team Advent course - Christmas carols their origins and meafting, well 1Ved, thanks to teafft. Hosted a Fatsi Chrfstsnas Carol seFVitt - was amazing to see how other Christians celebrate Chrlstrlw, by the end there Was dancing In the A151e, thanks to John Griffrths and Paul Davies. We hetd a Blue Chrlsimas selv1 for the first time, it was well attended by the communlty. Team Lent course West Slde Story. Easter - normal patten, details WIP st James Team Advent as above. Held a wreath maklng workstrrfjp for the flrst tlme whlch was lovely, wlll repeat, really gch numbers thKJugh at dlfferent points. Highlights for communty engagement Crib seNice and also every year have 3 tynt selv1 with Methodlst church around the Christmas tree In Goff5 Oak, this year had akx)ut' 150 people around the tree then went to the pub and suftg a few carols. Very posltive and happy Chrlstmas. Jeremy: Numbers good everywherei plenty of klds and people. Hoddesdon In vatancy. port kiFKlly deflvered by John Forrest, LLW Chylstmas was 91, speclal sewke for ¥esldents of local care trntre for people wlth dlfferent chalknge5. 12 resktents wlth thelr carers attended, whlch was greaL A local ery group also asked for a Se1 and.30 peaple came. The Chrtstlngle Serv1 was full and the Carol sevil, It Is a blesslng to have chlldren from school wlth thelr choli., Midnlght with Bishop Jane was excellent, wlld churchi messy church and school servlces also took pla. Lent course wlll be Int wfith St LWiberf5 - Chrlstian Akj Lent cour*'poverty trjda. Vacanry contlnues, Revd. Nick has b helplng. Atfvert fn Church Tlme5 week. St Marfs Very good Chrfstmas, 4 schools came Ini regular services, midnlght and ChYlslThas morning were up about 20 percent, over 100 for both, Carol Serv1 rather than 9 lessons, well attended. Blg hlghllght establlshed Ilnks wlth home for adults wlth leamlng dlfficultles, they came In tw over Christmas slnglng and made cakes. Thls Is golng to contlnue In the new year, atjout 30 people Oll a fothlght. Lent - team! Broxbourne Chrlstrnas was busy and good, between the 2 churches 8 Serv1 were held, thankful for Trevor Scott who led at St Laurence mldnlght setvlce. There was a good number of people for all services. A51 went well especlally those involving candles. Lent Jolnt, Invltlng people to Joln v41th Hoddesdim and Rye ParL Easter - not yet pkinned, Good Friday all age selv1, and an hour at the cross at St. Lauren. Chrfst Church Llke everyone Increased numbers- (andleltt (xmls part(cularly , up 30%, Ash Wednesday, momlng seNke plus Ashes to go In the evenlng outslde between the church and the statton for l •h hours. Team Lent COU and seNlces every day durlng Holy W&k Rye Pad( Speclat Servi Advent Sunday focused on situation In Gaza with prayer statk)ns, Christingle seNke quite well altEftded, disappointed school choir dklnt turn up. Lessons and carols wlth enhanod choir froTn church and communlty Jolned In. John G led Garols in the park- community event followed by hot ch(Kotate. Chr5stmas Eve famlly carol seNlce - well up on last year. Midnight also seems to be well attended from the comFnunity. Christmas moming famlly communion Ser1 joint with St C and St P - so full church. Ash Wednesday Jolnt wlth Methodist and St C and St P Lent LDurse - joint with Hoddes(iOn Gi)od Friday SerVt around clock tower and East Herts Church Choir RSCM Lfft high the Cross programme, from Palm Sunday to Good Frlday wlth lessons, anthems, hymns and prayers In St Cuthbert S 7..30pm, all welcome. Easter Day sunrise selv1 at 6:30am followed by b¥eakfast al then Heather taking the Easter Servi. i¥
the points of the Di¥)ute AthASOry SeNice is help before an escalates. How do we let" people know that this sÈryitr exists? We need to keep talking about 1¢ so It becomes 3n established potential area of support in the life of our churche& It is a seNi=e open to a¥y member of the church in our Diocese. The servi is a safe pla to bring confiicts and problems that we mlght have wrth each other in a church setting. It offers an accessible. voluntary and confidential process.that helps to resolve dlsputss in a broad range of situations and at all levels in the church commurdty, induding mIerS, chUhwayden5, office staff, and congregation member& It is supported by the Dioce* but independent of it: our Stan 15 completely neutral and we nevu report to anyone, even if they have refesTed someone to us. It Is for anyone In a church community, dergy or tay, employed, a volunteer or a congregational member. They might be in conftict with someone else, maybe over roles, responsibilitles, management of charvJe or reorgantsatlon, or over differeftces of belief and worship. There might be issues of [friMination, harMent, abuse or bullying. Talking to us can help you find ways of managing these or other difficult situatlons. How does It work? Wlth the Advisor you will explore the issue that Is causing you conrn and dfscuss how, when and whether to contact the other person In the conflict. There Is a wide range of routes to resolutlon which Include: discussion with appropriate people in the parish or Diocese; the clergy Coun5elling Senike, the Support In your Ministry scheme, Mediation support through the Clergy Discipline process or specific tralnlThgs. on you have consented to a proposed route to seek a solutlon, the Advlser wlll fer your situation to an appropriate person or Senrt and will continue to support you through the process. The process is confidential and every step will be wlth your cornt. We believe that making peace is intrlnsic to the gospel of Jesus Chrlst. The Treasure% Report showed a balance held of £5,407.05, Includlng the Deanery Hub Grants which remain at £2,889.50. Rural. Dean's Expenses continue to be reclaimed from the Diocese. sl ess of Note: a) Finance: Reports are prepared by Miss Dorothy Ayre, Honorary Treasurer. b) The Synod also seeks: To encourage representatlves on Synod to take back to thelr parlthes matters of Impatt for consideratlon In thelr PCC. To brlng back to Synod any consideratlon thelr PCC may have. To invlte members of each congregation to approprlate discussions or to hear speakers coverln9 a wide range of issues. hari ble s of Dean the Charity Commisone. The SY1 has charitsble status and is exempt from registratlon with Full Mlnuts: Full Mlnutes of each Deanery Synod Meetlng are drculated to all Syn(Kl Members. Parlshes requiring a fuller report on any of the Synod's proceedings should ask one of their Deanery Synod Members for more details. Copies of previous Deanery Synod minutes are available to PCC Secretaries on request. Further Informatlon can be obtalned from the Deanery Secretsrytrreasurer or Rural Dean. 2025 Deanery Syn(Kt Meetlng Dales 3 February 7.30 pm on Z(N)m, 23 June AGM, Eucharist and Sodal, SL Catherlne & St. Paul. Hoddesdon. 6 October SL.Auoustine's Br.oxbourr 11 February 2025
FINANCIAL REVIEW Financial Budget The budget set for 2024 predicted an income/expenditure deflcit of £102,941. This figure was based on income of £88,926 and expenditure of £191,867, Building costs of £lOO,000 to reconfigure the Baptistry had been factored into the expenditure. However, no such work took place durlng the year, apart from architect and surveyor costs. Given this, the revised predicted Budget deficit for the year should be considered to be £2,941. Actual income was £87,475 and expenditure £90,286 resulting a deficit of £2,810 for the year. Reserves Policy Reserves Policy was to retain a minimum of £30,000 In the Barclays Business Account to enable the church to meet financial commitments. A fall below thls level would require a review of income/expendlture and potential draw down from reserve funds. Reserve funds are invested ir) accounts with the CCLA Bank of which there are ten. designated or restricted, for specific funding purposes. Additional investments are made by the Diocesan Board of Finance on behalf of the church into three further specific funds. Fundlng Initiatives Online giving was established during 2020 uslng the Sumup 'Give a Little, web portal. There are direct links from the church Facebook page and 'A Church Near You,. A debit/credit card reader is used to make giving to St Mary's easier, as well as enabling easier payment of fees for weddings. A charity donation bucket has been placed at the south porch entrance, to encourage donations from attendees to weddings/funerals/baptisms and events at the church. Planned Giving The church is grateful to all those members of the congregation that have been able to support the church, by contlnuing to make a regular donatlon to the church collection. There are now only a handful of individuals continuing to make contributions by Standing Order Payments. If as many as possible could pay using the Parish Giving Scheme, that would be a great assistance in reducing the workload of the finance team. Having the benefit of regular payments affords the church better financial
planning and management. Giving by these two methods raised £36,137 towards the church finances, compared to the sum of £39,969 in 2023. Stewardship A stewardship campaign dld not take place durlng the year. Parish Share At the outset of the year the PCC had made a commitment to pay the Parish Share in full for 2024. The departure of our Curate, Mark Eascott, meant that the Parish Share increased for the final three months of the year. Despite this the full share was paid. This was possible thanks to the continued financial support of the congregation and fund raising activities, for whlch all associated with St Mary's, can be justifiably proud. The departure of Mark meant that the Curates House at 4a Goff's Lane could be let to a tenant. The Income from thls helped offset the increase in the Parish Share. Properties Church House The property is subject to a 49-year lease with B3 Living Housing Association, providing affordable accommodation to eight local families. The church receive5 an annual ground rent which is subject to review on a 5 yearly cycle. The ground rent was reviewed during 2023 and this Increased from £2000 to £2276, which is made as an annual payment. Estimated market value of the property is £2,200,000. Curates House - 4 Goff's Lane Following the departure of Mark and family the PCC decided to completely redecorate and undertake some refurbishment to the property. The work was undertaken by members of the church over a four-week period. The PCC is immensely grateful to those individuals that made the commitment to undertake this work. New washing machine, fridge freezer and bathroom shaver/light were installed, as well as new main stop cock. Renovation work took place to enhance kitchen units, which in the longer term will need to be replaced. All carpets were cleaned, and gas certification took place. A monthly standing order for £125 is paid into the CCLA bank account for 'Church Property,, to provide funds for any maintenance charges to the property.
A further monthly standlng order of £100.00 paid into the'Perlodic Planned Major Maintenance. account, to provide for the repairs and malntenance to the Church. Church Office Portacabin The property Is in. a reasonable state of repalr for Its age. The unft was only ever Intended to be a temporary structure and in 2023. it was necessary to replace sections of the south facing wall to ensure continued Integrity against water penetration. Further work may now be necessary for the same reason. Gutterlng was also added to improve drainage. It Is intended, when possible, for the portacabin to be replaced with a more permanent structure. Gas and Electricit utillt Bills The rlslng cost of utility bllls presents an ongoing challenge to the church f inancially. Gas and electriclty provlded to the church is purchased through the "Parish Buying Energy Basket." This scheme provides access to cheaper utility rates than would otherwise be available to the church .independently. Current FFnanc•al Position St Mary's continues to find. Itself. in a. challenging flnanclal positlon. as with prevlous years. Legacies recelved over recent years have provlded an important lifeline to the church, which like any other charity, could not continue In its mission, wlthout such support. Legacy money received, together with the financial support of the congregation. has enabled the church to pay It's Parlsh Share In full for a sixth consecutlve year. Members of the congregatlon are encouraged to leave a legacy to the church to help secure its continued future. There a individual Inherltance tax advantages for providing a legacy. The greatest Challenge faced by the church Is the rlse In utility blll costs. These will continue to have a significant Impact on finances for the foreseeable future. In order to manage this, it Is important that 311 future expendlture on church fabrlc, is considered agalnst church reserves held and the abillty of the church to pay the utllity bills. The prevlous replacement of the Portacabin heaters has help to keep costs down. The vlablllty of the church depends entirely on increasing size of the congregation and scope of future fund-raising events. During the year a number of .or.ganlsed f.und-.r.aislng events took place whlch .helped .to support the church finances. The PCC is very grateful to all who organised, Implemented and supported these events.
Outlook for 2025 and beyond The flnanclal outlook for the church in 2025 remains challenging. It Is Intended once again to try to pay the"Parish Share in full for the year. This will be.a huge financial task. given.the continuing decline in church Income. tt Is Important that we endeavour to meet.this commltment.. While the church finances are supported by reserve funds, these are not finite. Once utilised, it WTII be difficult if not impossible to replenish these, requirlng careful conslderation on any future drawdown of funds. Finance Team All aspects of church ftnances have been devolved to the meetlngs of the PCC. Full financlal disclosure and reports were provlded to the members of the PCC by the church treasurer at scheduled meetings. It is intended that a new treasurer will take over from the current treasurer in 2025. A program.of training commenced 2024 and will continue as required.. Gratltude The PCC would like to express its thanks to members of the congregation that have managed to contlnue to contrlbute to the church collectlon, either through cash payments, standlng order payments or the Parlsh Giving Scheme. Thanks also to the 'Frlends of St Mary's, for the flnanclal and other support they provided to the church, throughout the year and Indlvlduals that have made donatlons In support of the church.
Financial Report of the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Cheshunt St Mary For the year ended 31st December 2024
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND ANO WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Section A Independent Examiner's Report Report to the trustees/ member5 of PCC OF 5t Mary Che5hunt On accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 Charity no {if any) 1134781 Set out on pages IVtoXV I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity {"the Trust") for the year ended 3111212024. Responslbillties and basis of report As the charity's trusteesi you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts In accordance with the requSrements of the Charities Act 2011 {"the Act"). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carrled out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and In carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Dlrectlons given by the Charity Commission under section 145{5)(b) of the Act. Independent examiner's statement I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination (other than that disclosed below ) which gives me cause to believe that In, any material respect: the accounting records were not kept in accordance wlth section 130 of the Charities Act; or the accounts did not accord with the accounting records. or the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a'true and fairf view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn In this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. * Please delete the words in the brackets if they do not apply. Signed: Date: 21,1 A -Q .
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE Name: STEPHEN JOHN SELL Relevant professlonal qualification(sl or body (if any): FCCA Address: 16 GARNER DRIVE BROXBOURNE, HERTFORDSHIRE EN106AP Section B Disclosure Only complete if the exaininer needs to highlight material matters of conGerii (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts; directions and guidance for examiners). Glve here brlef details of any Items that the examlner wlshes to dlsclose.
ST MARYTHE VIRGIN CHURCH, CHESHUNT RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 Note Total Unrestrlct'd Restricted MONEY IN Church Cash coSleclions at regular services Cash Collections charity specific Donations Gift Aid envelopes HMRC gift aid reclaimed other Cash CoSlections Planned Giving, Parish Giving Scheme Planned Giving via Standing Order SumuplEasy Fund Raising Wedding & funeral fees income 4,449 4,449 4,961 525 3,043 1.765 33.247 2,890 607 7,881 4.961 525 3,043 1,765 33,247 2,890 607 7,881 Church House Church House Ground Rent 2,276 2,276 Curate's House 4a Goff s Lane rental income 5,964 5,964 General Fund raising Fund raising charity specific Legacies Other receipts 5,651 1,475 5,651 1,475 2,186 2,186 Banking Barclays reward Barclays Saver Account Interest 1411 38 687 38 687 DBF Accounts Interest Church Fabric Fund Church Chancel Fund 442 78 442 78 CCLA Accounts Interest CCLA Accounts Interest 9,310 7071 2,239 Total money In Iv
ST MARY THE VIRGIN CHURCH, CHESHUNT RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 Note Total Unrestrlct'd MONEY OUT Church Church energy & water bills Church maintenancelrepairs Church servicing Organ expense Clergy expenses Cost of organists at regular church services Other costs lo run regular church services Parish Share Payments to Charities Salaries, Wages, Honoraria Wedding & funeral fee payments 8,993 274 3,044 541 3,515 2,350 568 47,654 1135 1,248 4,240 8,993 274 3,044 541 3,515 2.350 568 47,654 1135 1,248 4,240 10 11 12 13 14 Banklng Barclays Commission 460 460 Curates Hous8 Curates House expenses Curates House maintenance 15 16 1,919 1,228 1,919 1.228 Portacabln Port8cabln energy & water bills 1,344 1,344 General Admin & sundries Insurance Other payments Phone and Broadband Photocopler 17 18 19 2,656 5,330 1,647 526 1.614 2,656 5,330 1,647 526 1,614 Total monéy out DEFICIT -2,810 -6,524 3,714
ST MARYTHEVIRGIN CHURCH, CHESHUNT RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 2023 2024 Dltternnce 2023 & 2024 MONEY IN Church PIar¥1 GivirvJ via Stan¢firu Order Planned Giviryd via Pari8h Githry Sen Cash co118clb)ns at reaular servic8 Cash coll8cliDns charity specific Donations Gift hjd envelopes RC gift aid reclaind Olhar cash collections SumUplEo8y FurKI RAislfva tddiry & funeral fees incom9 3.605 38.403 4.487 808 3.130 36.839 4.087 181 12.151 390 2.890 33.247 4,449 -3.470 -181 -7.190 135 3.043 e08 38 -1.887 4.981 525 3,043 1,785 607 7.881 -145% 26% 100% 34% 550 3,962 1,702 2.404 10,720 1.157 569 9.788 -24% Church Hou8e Church Fk>us6 Grourml Rent 2.000 3,052 2276 -776 Curato's House 48 Golf8 Lang rental Im& 5.964 100% General FurKI ralslrYJ Fund roi8iw chority 8p8ciftc Grants Legacles 0th8r receipt8 6.642 374 5,905 257 5.651 1,475 -254 1,218 -4% 83% 115.885 5,942 11,131 2,188 -8.94S 409% Banklng Barclay5 Roward Intoro$t & Dibider 59 1.912 38 687 -16% 25% 512 175 DBF Accounts Interest Church Fabric lurKI 513 442 -71 MONEY OUT Churoh Chur¢h an&rgy & walar bm8 Church malnlork9ncelrep8lr8 ChLKch $8rwioing Organ expon5 Clergy expentsgs Cost of orgaré8tS 8t re9ar clvJrch 8er¥ico8 Olhar c08t8 lo run regdar church seTrices PAriBh Shara Paymonts to Chaiiti98 S&lgTies. Wag&s. Fkjnor VgddlrwJ & fumrol fee paymnts 6.685 8,364 11.465 12.262 27,e02 4,977 8.993 2T4 3,044 541 3.515 2.350 568 47.e54 1.135 1,248 4,240 -3,289 -27,328 -1.933 541 -598 45 -36% -gD74% -64% 100% -17% 4.871 2,230 4.113 100% 12% 34,727 832 1,248 6,359 41,995 407 1.248 5,659 728 -3,B20 -90% Banklng Barclays Gèn & F¢0$ cOn¥n3n 470 448 12 3% Curates House Curat88 Fbu8e exper6 Curates Fk>use malnteMne8 1.301 603 1.919 1,228 1,316 1,228 69% 100% Portacabln Portscabln en8ryy. water & otr cos18 3.323 1,344 55 -71% General Admin & stmdrfos Insurance other payments PIK)ne & BroadbaTr PIKJtocoplBr 892 4.885 1.295 777 1.062 5.116 4,703 511 1A51 2,656 5?30 1.527 528 1,614 1,594 214 4.266 15 183 -214% 3% vi
ST MARY THE VIRGIN CHURCH, CHESHUNT RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 bala9 R8cei Is ments Transfers Cbsl balance Barclays Unrestricted Incomo Funds Gengral WeddlrvJs & Fun8ral Fees Sav8r 1.ODO soo 52,5BO 54,080 69.594 7,884 687 78,165 85,932 4,354 16,337.31 -3,529.87 -15,522.94 -2,715.50 1,000 500 37,744 39,244 Tola18 90,285 CCLA Unr8strictpd Deslgnated Funds General Plan[d MajoT Mainlenance Legacy 10,777 18.325 11)3,381 132,482 572 1.012 5,487 7.071 0.00 1,400.00 0.00 1,400.(X) 11,349 20,737 108,868 140,953 Tolals CCLA R88tricted Income Funds Sl Mary'8 Parl8h Centre Special Funds Youth B811ry Clyjrch Properly Handbo118 Junior Church 26,559 3,497 3,191 3.137 3.227 357 971 40,940 1.440 186 169 176 198 19 52 2,239 1.475.00 0,00 0.00 302,00 -442.00 0.00 0.00 1,335.00 29,474 3,682 3,361 3.615 2,983 378 1,023 44,514 Tol818 TOTAL FUNDS 227 503 224 692 st Alban8 DBF managod valu8llon Pa menls Transfers Closl valuation Rgslrl¢tgd Dgposlt Fund 156 Churchgale Sale Proceèds Tolals 26,322 26,322 325 325 325 325 27,383 27,383 en valuatbn Rece Shares Held Prka ar unltlshare Closl valuallon Endowmènl Funds Church Chancel Fu1 Church Fabrlc Fund 2,803 15,937 18.740 78 442 520 124 705 829 23 23 23 2,867 16,302 19,169 Tol818
5T MARY THE VIRGIN CHURCH, CHESHUNT RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 Church unrestricted funds are the Barclays General, Fee and Saver accounts, which are all used for the general running of the Parish. Church CCLA Designated funds are the deposit used for General Reserves, the Planned Periodic Major Maintenance for major maintenance work and the Legacy Fund for legacies received. Restricted Income funds are the St Marvs Parish Centre fund, the Special fund originally for expenditure mainly on altar front and nave altar, the Youth fund for youth work with children over thirteen years of age, the Junior Church fund for children under thirteen years of age, the Belfry fund for major work on the bells, the Church Property Fund specifically for maintenance and servicing of the Curates House at 4A Goffs Lane, Cheshunt, and the Hand Bell Fund. Most restricted income has already been transferred to the approprlate restrlcted fund durlng 2024. The notes on pages IX to XV form part of these accounts. Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 14 April 2025 And slgned on its behalf by: Mrs Angela Dronyij (Church Warden) Mrs Victoria Clarke (Church Warden) viii
ST MARY THE VIRGIN CHURCH, CHESHUNT RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 Accounting basis and procedures St Mary's 2024 accounts have been produced on a Receipts and Payments basis, which is permitted for charities with an annu31 turnover less than £250,000. It should be noted that this accounting method only records the actual bank transactions in the calendar year and the bank balance at the end of the year. A deficit does not mean an overdraft. Excel spreadsheets have been used to record online bankin8 transactions, which are then reconciled wlth invoices, bank transfers and weekly cash income records. The Data Developments system 'MyGivlng,online' is used to claim gift aid from HMRC. RECEIPTS Income overall was down £10,824 compared with 2023. This loss is obviously of financial concern to the church and not sustalnable in the long term. It is imperative that the church and congregation make every effort to support the church finances through fund raising and other flnancial contributions to ensure the viability of the church into the future. l. Planned Giving Thanks go to all the congregation members, that despite the challenging times, have managed to continue to contribute to the church collection, either through standing order payments or the Parish Giving Scheme. Cash collections at regular services Planned Giving via Parish Giving Scheme Planned Glving via Standing Order £4,449 £33,247 £2,890 Total £40,586 2. Donatlons Edna Oake Ellzabeth Sugg Eugene Collection Frlends of St Marls Friends of St Mary's Mark Collection Charity Bucket £100 £500 £265 £480 El,816 £350 £617 Total £4,128 3. Other Cash Collectlons Baptisms £754 Ix
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE Funerals Candle Stand £665 £346 Total £1,765 4. Fund Ralslng Fund raising activities make an important contribution to church finances and thanks go to those individuals that organised, managed and supported these event5. Auction Autumn Fayre Bunny Fun David Border Choir Concert Edna Coffee Morning Enfield Brass Band Concert Knitted Doll Sale Lottery Bonus Ball Summer Fayre Table Top Sale Xmas Tree Festival Tea with Santa £271 £1,100 £221 £162 £127 £242 £10 £1,285 £1,501 £595 £206 £40 Total £5,651 5, Fund Ralslng Charlty Speclflc The following charities were supported through the fund raising efforts of the church. Crlsis 2023 Crisis 2024 Bishop's Harvest Appeal Hurricane Beryl Shelter Box St Elizabeth's Hospice St Mary's £110 £162 £133 £245 £150 £150 £192 Total £1,475
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE 6. Other recelpts Parlsh Breakfast DBF Grant for TV CCLA Belfry Restricted Acc Miscellaneous Receipts £974 £250 £302 £660 Total £3,041 7. DBF Accounts Interest Including.. Restricted De osit Fund 156 Churchgate Endowment Funds Church Fabric Fund Church Chancel Fund £325 £442 £78 8. CCLA Accounts Interest CCLA Interest £9310 PAYMENTS 9. Church Maintenance/Repalrs Including: Draln Cover Repair Floodlight & Cable Tower Door Paint £200 £26 £48 Total £274 10. Church Servlcing Including: J. Scott & Sons HMDW Archltects RPL Surveyors £594 £1,716 £480 Total £2,790 xi
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE 11. Parlsh share The church paid the Parish Share in full for 2024, totalling £47,654. This is the sixth consecutive year that the Parish Share has been paid in full. Unpaid Parish Share from previous years remains at £89,018. 12. Payments to Charities Payments to charities included: Bishop's Harvest Appeal Crisis 2023 Crlsis 2024 Hurrlc3ne Beryl Shelter Box St Elizabeth's Hospice £134 £110 £162 £245 £150 £150 Total £951 13. Salaries, Wages & Honoraria There were no payments made to PCC members as fees. Any payments made would only be to reimburse costs Incurred by them in the first instance, upon expenses for the running of the church and associated activities. Service on the PCC is voluntary. Paid staff costs are summarised as follows: Fay Metin- Church Cleaner £1,248 14. Weddlng & Funeral Fee Payments Organist, Verger, Bell Ringer Fees Parochial 2023 Fees £1,715 £2,525 Total £4,240 15. Curate's House Expenses EDF Utilities Thames Water R P Gibbs- Elec/gas White Goods Door & fitting5 Other costs £53 £348 £261 £605 £202 £450 Total £1,469 xii
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE 16. Curate's House Maintenance Carpet Cleaning General Repairs Oven Cleaning Refurb Materials £155 £295 £70 £707 Total £1,228 17. Admin & Sundrles Data Developments - Monthly Fees C.C.L.l. Licensing G. Parks- Prlnting Ink Broxbourne Print & Design Beds & Herts Historic Churches Redemptionist RSCM ThirtyOneElght - Fee Pathways Services £180 £692 £140 £913 £40 £305 £270 £12 £75 Total £2,627 18. Insurance The Ecclesiastical Insurance Group provlde all our insurance via a group scheme policy and our policle5 provide the following cover: Church buildings £11,710,000 and contents £140,000 Organ £500,000 Also covered are public and employers, liability for Incumbent, churchwardens, PCC members and many organised church activities. Total Invoices £5,330 19. Other payments Independent Examiner Funeral Organist Adam Omer Audery Carvell Memorial Church Requisites Eugene Leaving Gift Card Vicarage Uti lities £120 £95 £235 £72 £744 £265 £116 Vicarage garden Refreshments Catering/cieaning Supplies Total £1,647
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE MONETARY ASSETS 20. Current accounts The Barclays General Account is used to manage all church receipts and payments other than wedding and funeral fees and payments. The Fees Account with Barclays is used to manage all weddinE and funeral fee5 and payments. Both accounts are automatically linked to the Barclays Saver account to keep a working balance at the end of each day. 21. Saver Account This is a Barclays Account, which receives money automatically transferring from the Barclays General and Fees Accounts to leave a working balance in each account and earns a small amount of interest. 22. CCLA Deposlt Accounts There are 10 deposit accounts held by the Church. The interest received totalled £9,310, whlch Is re invested in those accounts. 23. CBF Church of England Deposlt Funds (CCLA) Standing Orders with Barclays are used to deposit £125 monthly into the Church Property Account to fund potential malntenance and repair costs to the Curate's House. A further £100 is deposited monthly into the Periodic Planned Major Maintenance Account. 24. Endowment Funds The Chancel Fund investrnent represents a Permanent Endowment; thls arose from the Tithe Redemption Commission in the 1940s to enable landowners with a liability for chancel insurance and repair to discharge their liability in a one-off payment. The restricted income is to be used towards tho cost of insuring the chancel or towards the maintenance and repair of the chancel, church and churchyard. It is applied to the repair of the St Mary's church fabric through a restricted fund. In 2024, total dividend income was £78 and was paid into the Barclays General account. The Fabric Fund Investment represents a Permanent Endowment established by deed on 27 April 1932. The designated income is to be applied to the upkeep, repair or maintenance of the fabric of St Mary's church through a designated fund, unless an alternative use Is authorised by the Archdeacon of Hertford. In 2024, total dividend income was £442 and was paid into the Barclays General account. Following the purchase of 4a Goff s Lane the residue money from the Sale of 156 Churchgate wa5 invested by the Diocesan Board of Finance in a CBF Deposit Fund which is restricted. The trusts contained in the original conveyance provide that "until applied {for furthering the religious and xiv
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHESHUNT, HERTFORDSHIRE other charitable work of the Church of England in the parish} they (the net proceeds) shall be invested by the Board and the income thereof shall be applied by the (PCC) for the like purposes. In 2024, total dividend income was £325. OTHER ASSETS 25. Freehold propertles 51 Church ate In 2016 Church House was leased to B3Living for 49 years and redeveloped into eight flats for community use, The first tenants moved into during June 2019 and the flats are now fully occupied. A ground rent is paid annually to the church, and revlewed every five years. This review took place March 2023 and as a consequence the rent has increased frorn £2,000 to £2,276. The current estlmated value of the property is approximately £2,000,000. 4a Goff's Lane In 2018 the previously owned Curate's house was sold and a new more modern property, 4a Goff's Lane, was purchased, The current estimated value of the property is £460,000 approx. Portacabin The Portacabln was purchased in 2015 and is utilised as the church office and is also used by the clergy. The only church toilet is located here. OTHER NOTES 26. Other Charltles Not under the control of the PCC and therefore omitted from the accounts is The Cheshunt Parish Charitles, These charities are traditionally known as "The Churchwardens, Charities" The incumbent and churchwardens are trustees, and their Annual Report and Accounts are available on request. The objects of the charities, some of which are ancient, are to support specific educational causes and those suffering hardship. The Friends of St Mary5 is a separate reglstered charity whlch raises money for the upkeep and improvement of the church building. In the year 2023-2024, St Mary's Box Collectors raised £365.93 in support of the Children's Society. xv
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