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2024-12-31-accounts

PARISH OF BENGEO Annual Report for 2024

General Information

This report covers the period 1 January to 31 December 2024.

Bengeo is in the Diocese of St Albans and is situated mainly within the town of Hertford, but the parish also includes the rural areas of Chapmore End and Tonwell. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of maintaining two churches in the parish, Holy Trinity Church and St Leonard’s Church. Holy Trinity Church, a Grade II listed building, is the main parish church and is situated in New Road, Bengeo. St Leonard’s Church is a Grade I listed building dating from approximately 1120 and is situated in St Leonard’s Road, Bengeo.

The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure and appointments are made under the Church Representation Rules.

During the past year the following served as members of the PCC:

Team Vicar: The Reverend Robert Thompson Associate Priest: The Reverend David Pepper Lay Readers: Mr Bob Kelly & Mrs Anne Sentance Churchwardens: Mrs Diana Howarth and Mr Graham Squires

Representatives on the Deanery Synod: Vacant

Elected members:

Until APCM 2025 Mrs Joanne King Mr David Greely Mr Peter Shillito Until APCM 2026 Mr David Cramphorn Mrs Bridget Hersant Mrs Anne Sentance Until APCM 2027 Mrs Pam Thain Mr James Dutton

Internal - Official - Sensitive

Aim and purposes

The primary objective of the PCC is to support Robert in the promotion in the parish of the gospel of Lord Jesus Christ. The actions the PCC continued to focus on in 2024 to support this objective were:

Regular Worship

The arrangement of 9am and 10am Sunday modern language services with service booklets for each season continues to be well received. The 10am services continue to provide a range of musical offerings including regular appearances by the choir and the informal singing group, services featuring the worship band, as well as wonderful support by the two church organists. The 10am service continues to be live-streamed providing valuable access for those unable to attend in person. This is regularly viewed by 20 to 30+ worshipers.

In 2024 Holy Trinity introduced an initiative whereby a team led by Bob Kelly, Anne Sentance, Bridget Hersant and Moira Flindall provided a non-Eucharist 10am service from time to time. These services have been very well received adding to the rich variety of worship opportunities offered at Holy Trinity.

Services of Holy Communion in the traditional language from the Book of Common Prayer also provide a valued alternative weekly worship offering.

Quiet Time, the weekly prayer group, continued to provide a space for reflection and meditation, thanks to the dedication and stewardship of David Cramphorn and Moira Flindall. The Advent and Lent Bible discussion courses were again well received this year.

The average attendance each Sunday during October 2024 was 48 - compared with an average attendance of 52 for each Sunday in October 2023.

Electoral Roll - there were 95 people on the 2024 Electoral Roll. A complete renewal of the Electoral Roll was required for 2025 which Stella Saggers kindly undertook. The 2025 Electoral Roll for Holy Trinity totalling 81 people -

Internal - Official - Sensitive

has been published for fourteen days continuously in advance of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting.

Church Buildings and Environs

Holy Trinity Church

Thanks to the generosity of Peter and Libby Shillito the Reredos and font have been cleaned and restored, in memory of their son, Tim. The transformation has been remarkable, bringing to life the wonderful carving.

The redecoration of the outer doors was completed in Spring 2024.

Work was undertaken in summer 2024 to repair and re-lead the church roof.

Plans have been put in place for the re-decoration of the inside of the church this summer when St Leonard’s will be used for services. A contractor has been sourced to carry out the work and advice taken to ensure that the best and most appropriate paint and materials are used.

Rosie Freeland has kindly taken on the organisation of the volunteers who maintain the Memorial Garden. This work is now supplemented by professional help from Paul Cramphorn who has been contracted to mow and maintain the lawn and beds.

A second bench is being installed in the churchyard of Holy Trinity in memory of Roger Martin.

St Leonard’s

A survey of the wall paintings at St Leonards has been undertaken. This found that there had been very little deterioration over the last 20 years since the last survey, but some conservation work is required to stabilise the flaking paint. This will be paid for by the Friends of St Leonard’s with grant assistance and will take place in 2025.

Work to erect railings in St Leonard’s churchyard to safeguard against a trip hazard will also be undertaken in 2025.

Church Hall

A defibrillator has now been installed.

Special thanks are extended to Wendy Celia and Heidi Dutton concerning their work in managing the bookings and taking care of the hall.

Internal - Official - Sensitive

Community Activities

Holy Trinity church continues to play an active role in the local community delivering a rich and varied programme of mission activity in 2024. This included:

Internal - Official - Sensitive

Once again, the PCC would like to thank the indefatigable efforts of the volunteers who support the services and events at Holy Trinity and St Leonards including the coffee team, cleaning team and flower arrangers, as well as everyone involved in raising funds for the church and for the charities the church supports.

Safeguarding

The Parish is committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults and to supporting those who have been victims of abuse, as well as providing a safe environment from those who may present a risk to others, The PCC continues to comply with their duty to have due regard to the House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy and Practice Guidance. DBS checks are renewed every three years for these individuals as well as all members of the PCC. All appropriate safeguarding training has also been undertaken within the last 3 years.

The PCC adopted a revised Photography and Live Stream Policy in January 2025. This policy together with the Safeguarding Children’s Policy, the Safeguarding Policy for Adults and the Domestic Abuse Policy are being tabled for approval at the 2025 APCM.

If you wish to obtain advice or raise concerns, please contact Anne Sentance, the Parish Safeguarding Officer, or any member of the PCC. There were no issues of safeguarding concern reported during 2024.

Hertford Team Ministry

The Diocese has issued proposals which return arrangements for Hertford churches to the same system as before the Team Ministry model was initiated. On a day-to-day basis these changes would not impact the Parish – with a collaborative ministry between all Hertford churches being put in place. The proposals would mean the Robert would be officially titled as ‘Rector’ and Ralph Abel Smith would return as the patron of the parish. The PCC voted to adopt these proposals in November.

Deanery Synod

Deanery Synod met three times during 2024.

March – The Deanery of the Future Synod looked at some of the realities of the life of our deanery and began to consider possible futures. It was noted

Internal - Official - Sensitive

that only two of the benefices contribute (through their Parish Share) the full cost of placing a priest in post, and these effectively subsidise the rest of the parishes (whose full share request falls short of the total cost of ministry). It was observed that some parishes are paying their share by dipping into reserves and that many were being funded by donations from generous ageing congregations. If current trends were to continue, it would not be long before the diocese would need to consider further amalgamations. The challenge for the deanery was how to be ready with suitable answers to any such proposals. The following questions were discussed in groups: What would your reaction be to the suggestion that your parish be united with [a parish adjacent to yours] when the next minister resigns (yours or theirs)? What would be gained? What would be lost? What don’t you know that you think you need to know? The increase in the governance burden on churches and the simultaneous volunteer-crisis were also discussed. Much important ministry is carried out by lay people, but it is getting harder to fill the posts of warden, treasurer, secretary and PSO. Members were asked: What do you think could be done about filling this need? What is your own parish situation with regard to filling vacancies for posts like churchwarden and treasurer? Synod will return to these matters later.

July – Social Function and Elections to Diocesan Synod. All five vacancies in the House of Clergy were filled without election. Our representatives are Ysmena Pentelow, John Hookway, Alan Stewart, Sarah Forrest and Mark Dunstan. Five of the six vacancies in the house of laity were filled without election. Our representatives are Liz Horner (St Mary the Virgin, Ware), Tim Crowther (St Mary the Virgin, Ware), Janet Bird (All Saints, Hertford), Colin Bird (All Saints, Hertford) and Bob Barker (Christ Church, Ware). This Synod was followed by a relaxed and enjoyable BBQ, giving members an opportunity to deepen friendships and share ideas, issues and best practices. www.hertfordandwaredeanery.org.uk

November - Generous Giving The Diocesan Giving Officer, Kate Ford, has been in post for about two years. Her role is sponsored by funds from the National Church. She is helping parishes to grow generous giving by advising on giving mechanisms and communications and through running giving campaigns. She gave a thorough and encouraging presentation. Questions and comments from the floor related to a wide range of topics including: legacies; the benefits, costs and use of card readers; the positives of using the National Parish Giving Scheme and Gift Aid. After the plenary, Synod members were given the opportunity to look at template documentation resources and two card readers. The vacancy in the House of Laity for Diocesan Synod was filled by Shirley Taylor from Hertford, St Andrew’s (unopposed). All the meetings also included other reports from Diocesan Synod. Deanery Collaboration

Internal - Official - Sensitive

Financial Review ( to be read in conjunction with the Honorary Treasurer’s Report in the 2024 Annual Accounts)

The 2024 Annual Accounts for Holy Trinity show that our annual expenditure (£136,322) exceeded our income (£123,106). Overall, the accounts show a deficit on unrestricted funds of £9,283. This is compared with a deficit of £7,235 in 2023. These annual deficits are sustainable because of the value of unrestricted funds held by the PCC.

Investment values increased in the year with an unrealised gain of £19,714 compared with a gain of £74,660 in 2023. The value of investments held at 31 December 2024 was £881,057 compared to £861,342 at the end of 2023. Income from these investments in 2024 totalled £23,910.

Whilst the deficits of recent years are small in comparison to the funds held by the PCC they are resulting in a gradual deterioration the values of the funds as they are used to offset the deficits. Reducing the annual General Fund deficit is a key area of financial focus during 2025.

End of year cash holdings for 2024 were £95,068 (2023: £101,616).

Unrestricted funds now stand at £822,924

Restricted funds now stand at £46,940

Endowment funds now stand at £127,475

Meaning total funds now stand at £997,333 (2023: £990,841).

Reserves Policy

The PCC aims to hold, in current assets, unrestricted fund balances equivalent of between six and nine months’ of unrestricted expenditure. This ensures there are funds immediately accessible to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The target is between £64,000 and £95,000. The year-end unrestricted fund balance held in current assets was £69,342.

D Greely Hon Secretary Holy Trinity Church Bengeo

Internal - Official - Sensitive

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF HOLY TRINITY WITH CHRIST CHURCH AND ST. LEONARD, BENGEO

(Registered charity no. 1137534)

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Contents: Honorary Treasurer’s Report page 2 Independent Examiner's report page 3 Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024 page 4 Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 page 5 Notes to the accounts page 6

The notes on pages 6 to 11 are an integral parts of the accounts

1

Honorary Treasurer’s Report

This report should be read in conjunction with other Annual Reports produced for circulation at the Annual General Meeting which summarise the main activities of the parish during 2024.

The format of the accounts is the same as last year, as required by the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. The Statement of Financial Activities on page 4 summarises the income and expenditure for the year (separately detailed in Notes 2 and 3 respectively). The balance sheet on page 5 shows the assets and liabilities of the PCC and these apportion between various funds.

Key points to note:

Reserves Policy

The PCC aims to hold, in current assets, unrestricted fund balances equivalent of between six and nine months’ of unrestricted expenditure. This ensures there are funds immediately accessible to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The target is between £64,000 and £95,000. The year-end unrestricted fund balance held in current assets was £69,342.

Nick Sharman, FCA

2

Independent Examiner’s report to the Trustees of the Parochial Church Council of Holy Trinity with Christ Church and St. Leonard, Bengeo

I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 4 to 11.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the 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 examination, no matter has come to my attention:

(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

have not been met; or

(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Curtis Juman, FCPFA

111 Riddlesdown Road, Surrey CR81DH

15 April 2025

3

Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024

Note
INCOMING RESOURCES
Resources from donors
2a
Other voluntary income
2b
Trading income
2c
Investment income
2d
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
RESOURCES USED
Grants - Charitable giving
3a
Work of the Church
3b
Fundraising costs
3c
Management & Admin
3d
TOTAL RESOURCES USED
NET (RESOURCES USED) /
INCOMING RESOURCES
UNREALISED GAINS/(LOSSES) ON
INVESTMENTS
10
NET MOVEMENT OF FUNDS
BALANCES 1 JANUARY
BALANCES 31 DECEMBER

Unrestricted Restricted Endowment
Total
Total
Funds
funds
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
73,531
1,010
-
74,541
64,173
4,405
900
-
5,305
4,942
1,387
-
-
1,387
2,473
38,573
3,300
-
41,873
41,706
117,896
5,210
-
123,106
113,294
5,095
-
-
5,095
3,636
116,555
2,284
-
118,839
102,368
3,143
394
-
3,537
2,899
2,386
6,465
-
8,851
9,146
127,179
9,143
-
136,322
118,049
(9,283)
(3,933)
-
(13,216)
(4,755)
16,862 -
2,852
19,714
74,660
7,579
(3,933)
2,852
6,498
69,905
815,345
50,873
124,623
990,841
920,936
822,924
46,940
127,475
997,339
990,841

When planning activities, the PCC has considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, in particular the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion.

4

Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
5
Investments
6
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
7
Deposits (at Central Board of Finance)
Cash and bank balances
LIABILITIES: amounts falling due within one
year
8
NET CURRENT ASSETS
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
Unrestricted - General
- Designated
- Total
10a
Restricted
10b
Endowment
10c
£
17,036
881,057

2024
£


898,093



101,620
(2,374)
99,246
997,339
765,966
56,958
822,924
46,940
127,475
997,339
2023
£
23,501
861.342

6,552
57,231
37,837
884,843
5,248
52,657
48,959

106,864

(866)

105,998

990,841

764,163

51,182

815,345

50,873

124,623

990,841

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 27 March 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

The Reverend Robert Thompson (Chairman)

The notes on pages 5 to 11 form part of these accounts.

5

Notes to the accounts

1) Accounting policies

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations as amended by the Church Accounting (Amendment) Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the Charities SORP.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of fixed asset investments, which are shown at market value.

General funds represent the funds of the Parochial Church Council (“PCC”) that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for the general purposes of the PCC.

The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body or those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognised only when received. Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the income is recognised. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement, the amount due is quantifiable and its ultimate receipt by the PCC is reasonably certain. Funds raised by fête, garden party and similar events are accounted for gross.

The diocesan parish share is accounted for when paid.

Rental income from the letting of church premises is recognised when the rental is due.

Interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue.

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC.

Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by s.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 2011.

Movable church furnishings held by the Team Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC, and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted for as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church's Inventory which can be inspected by arrangement with the Churchwardens. For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts. Items costing more than £500 acquired since 1 January 2000 are capitalised and depreciated in the accounts over their anticipated useful economic life. The cost of the organ and other items are depreciated over ten years.

All expenditure incurred in the year on consecrated or beneficed buildings, individual items under £500 or on the repair of movable church furnishings acquired before 1 January 2000 is written off. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of less than £500 are written off when the asset is acquired.

Amounts owing to the PCC as at 31 December in respect of tax reclaimable under Gift Aid, rents or other income are shown as debtors less provision for amounts that may prove uncollectable.

Short-term deposits include cash held on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds or with the Diocese.

Investments are valued at market value as at 31 December.

Realised gains or losses are recognised when investments are sold. Unrealised gains or losses are accounted for on revaluation of investments as at 31 December.

6

Notes to the accounts continued

2) Incoming resources

2a Resources from donos:
Planned giving (BACS and
envelope scheme)
Collections
Donations (including
occasional envelopes)
Tax reclaimed
2bOther voluntary income:
Fundraising
Legacies
Other
2cTrading income:
Fees
2dInvestment income:
Dividends and interest
Rent from Church Hall
Total incoming resources
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
31,204
-
31,204
-
31,204
30,891
11,993
-
11,993
-
11,993
10,260
18,653
-
18,653
1,010
19,663
13,871
11,681
-
11,681
-
11,681
9,151
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
31,204
-
31,204
-
31,204
30,891
11,993
-
11,993
-
11,993
10,260
18,653
-
18,653
1,010
19,663
13,871
11,681
-
11,681
-
11,681
9,151
73,531
-
73,531
1,010
74,541
64,173
4,059
-
4,059
-
-
-
346
-
346
900
4,959
4,942
-
-
-
-
346
-
4,405
-
4,405
900
5,305
4,942
1,387
-
1,387
-
1,387
2,473
1,387
-
1,387
-
1,387
2,473
22,133
6
22,139
-
16,434
16,434
3,300
25,439
25,828
-
16,434
15,878
22,133
16,439
38,573
3,300
41,873
41,706
101,456
16,440
117,896
5,210
123,106
113,294

Dividends earned by the repair fund (£3,300) are restricted for use in maintaining and running the church and are therefore included in restricted funds above.

The PCC has a policy that legacies, unless otherwise restricted by the testator, are held in a designated fund and used for significant projects. No legacies were received in the year (2023: nil).

7

Notes to the accounts continued

3) Resources used

Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
3a
Charitable giving
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
3b
Work of the church:
Parish Share
69,332
- 69,332
-
69,332
70,047
Clergy and training expenses
2,522
-
2,522
-
2,522
1,986
Church running expenses
(including minor repairs)
27,269
- 27,269
-
27,269
11,679
Upkeep of services
1,166
-
1,166
1,024
2,190
3,832
Churchyard and Memorial
Garden
-
-
-
1,260
1,260
130
Church Hall running costs
-
10,664 10,664
-
10,664
9,829
Website & publicity
338
-
338
-
338
816
Salaries and fees
5,264
-
5,264
-
5,264
4,049
105,891
10,664 116,555
2,284
118,839
102,368
3c
Fundraising and trading costs:
Fundraising
3,143
-
3,143
394
3,537
2,899
Magazine
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,143
-
3,143
394
3,537
2,899
3d
Management and Administration:
Admin costs
2,386
-
2,386
-
2,386
2,532
Depreciation
-
-
-
6,465
6,465
6,614
2,386
-
2,386
6,465
8,851
9,146
Total outgoing resources
116,515
10,664 127,179
9,143
136,322
118,049*
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
69,332
- 69,332
2,522
-
2,522
27,269
- 27,269
1,166
-
1,166
-
-
-
-
10,664 10,664
338
-
338
5,264
-
5,264
-
69,332
70,047
-
2,522
1,986
-
27,269
11,679
1,024
2,190
3,832
1,260
1,260
130
-
10,664
9,829
-
338
816
-
5,264
4,049
105,891
10,664 116,555
2,284
118,839
102,368

3,143
-
3,143
-
-
-
394
3,537
2,899
-
-
-
3,143
-
3,143
394
3,537
2,899
-
2,386
2,532
6,465
6,465
6,614
2,386
-
2,386
6,465
8,851
9,146
116,515
10,664 127,179
9,143
136,322
118,049

8

Notes to the accounts continued

4) Staff costs and members' interests

During 2024, the PCC employed Mr W Sarjeant as organist who was paid £2,560 for services (£2,260 in 2023). There were no payments in respect of National Insurance or pensions.

Any payments to Trustees (members of the PCC) were for the reimbursement of expenses only, supported by receipts.

5) Tangible fixed assets

Cost b/f
Additions
Cost c/f
Depreciation b/f
Charge for the year
Depreciation c/f
NBV 1 January 2023
NBV 31 December 2024
Lighting
System
Organ &
furniture
Hall furniture
& equipment
Audio-visual
equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
30,287
83,474
5,176
10,499
129,436
-
-
-
-
-
30,287
83,474
5,176
10,499
129,436
(15,145)
(82,137)
(5,176)
(3,477)
(105,935)
(3,028)
(1,337)
-
(2,100)
(6,465)
(18,173)
(83,474)
(5,176)
(5,577)
(112,400)
15,142
1,337
-
7,022
23,501
12,114
-
-
4,922
17,036

The organ was bought with a grant from The Friends of St Leonards in 2003 and is held in a restricted fund. Various items of furniture have been bought since with money donated specifically for the purpose. Depreciation, which represents 10% of the cost of each item, is charged against this fund. Audio-visual equipment is depreciated over 5 years.

6) Investments

Units
Endowment funds:
Holy Trinity with Christ Church Repair Fund
3,929
Expendable endowment funds:
Bengeo Holy Trinity Church Hall
1,584
Unrestricted funds:
PCC account
1,962
Proceeds from sale of Cowper Crescent
30,628.54
Market
Value 2024
Market
Value 2023
£
£
90,849
88,816
36,626
35,807
127,475
124,623
45,367
44,352
708,215
692,367
753,582
736,719
881,057
861,342

9

The investments are part of the CBF Church of England Investment Fund. This Fund aims to provide a longterm total return comprising growth in capital and income. The Fund is an actively managed, diversified portfolio of assets designed to help protect both present and future beneficiaries from the effects of inflation. It has an emphasis on equities but also includes property, bonds and other asset classes. The Fund is managed in accordance with the policies of the Church of England’s Ethical Investment Advisory Group.

In 2024, the Fund has provided an investment income of £23,910 (2023: £23,544). Market values of these investment has been volatile over recent years. In 2024 there was an investment gain of £19,714. This compares with a gain of £74,660 in 2023, a loss of £106,746 in 2022 and a gain of £114,830 in 2021. The PCC continually reviews its investment portfolio recognising that there will be market fluctuations. The investments are held for the long term.

7) Debtors

Gift Aid amounts due from HMRC
Deferred income
2024
2023
£
£
4,630
3,860
1,922
1,388
6,552
5,248

8) Liabilities: amounts falling due within one year

Creditors 2024
2023
£
£
2,374
866
2,374
866

9) Analysis of assets and liabilities by fund

Fixed assets:
Investments (note 6)
Tangible fixed assets (note 5)
Current assets:
Debtors (note 7)
CBF deposits
Cash and bank
Creditors (note 8)
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Endowment
funds
Total
Funds
Total
Funds
General
£
Hall
£
Legacy
£
£
£
2024
£
2023
£
753,582
-
-
-
127,475
881,057
861,342

-
-
-
17,036
-
17,036
23,501
6,552
-
-
-
-
6,552
5,248
33,319
5,610
117
18,185
-
57,231
52,657
(25,113)
19,996
31,235
11,719
-
37,837
48,959
(2,374)
-
-
-
-
(2,374)
(866)
765,966
25,606
31,352
46,940
127,475
997,339
990,841

10

Notes to the accounts continued

10) Fund details

a) Unrestricted funds:
General fund
Designated:
Legacy fund
Hall fund
b) Restricted funds:
Lighting system fixed assets fund
Organ & furniture fixed assets fund
Audio-visual fixed assets fund
Bereavement café
Roof & fabric fund
Holy Trinity with Christ Church Repair
Memorial Garden
Flower fund
c) Endowment funds:
CBF units (note 6)
Brought
forward
£
Net increase /
(decrease)
before
unrealised
gains/(losses)
£
Unrealised
gains /
(losses)
£
Transfers
£
Carried
forward
£
764,163
(15,059)
16,862
-
765,966
31,346
6
-
-
31,352
19,836
5,770
-
-
25,606
815,345
(9,283)
16,862
-
822,924
15,142
(3,028)
-
-
12,114
1,337
(1,337)
-
-
-
7,022
(2,100)
-
-
4,922
423
506
-
929
3,061
-
-
-
3,061
15,096
3,300
-
-
18,396
7,926
(1,010)
-
-
6,916
866
(264)
-
-
602
50,873
(3,933)
-
-
46,940
124,623
-
2,852
-
127,475
990,841
(13,216)
19,714
-
997,333

11) Related party transactions

There were no related party transactions during the year (2023: none).

11

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF HOLY TRINITY WITH CHRIST CHURCH AND ST. LEONARD, BENGEO

(Registered charity no. 1137534)

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Contents: Honorary Treasurer’s Report page 2 Independent Examiner's report page 3 Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024 page 4 Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 page 5 Notes to the accounts page 6

The notes on pages 6 to 11 are an integral parts of the accounts

1

Honorary Treasurer’s Report

This report should be read in conjunction with other Annual Reports produced for circulation at the Annual General Meeting which summarise the main activities of the parish during 2024.

The format of the accounts is the same as last year, as required by the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. The Statement of Financial Activities on page 4 summarises the income and expenditure for the year (separately detailed in Notes 2 and 3 respectively). The balance sheet on page 5 shows the assets and liabilities of the PCC and these apportion between various funds.

Key points to note:

Reserves Policy

The PCC aims to hold, in current assets, unrestricted fund balances equivalent of between six and nine months’ of unrestricted expenditure. This ensures there are funds immediately accessible to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The target is between £64,000 and £95,000. The year-end unrestricted fund balance held in current assets was £69,342.

Nick Sharman, FCA

2

Independent Examiner’s report to the Trustees of the Parochial Church Council of Holy Trinity with Christ Church and St. Leonard, Bengeo

I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 4 to 11.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the 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 examination, no matter has come to my attention:

(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

have not been met; or

(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Curtis Juman, FCPFA

111 Riddlesdown Road, Surrey CR81DH

15 April 2025

3

Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024

Note
INCOMING RESOURCES
Resources from donors
2a
Other voluntary income
2b
Trading income
2c
Investment income
2d
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
RESOURCES USED
Grants - Charitable giving
3a
Work of the Church
3b
Fundraising costs
3c
Management & Admin
3d
TOTAL RESOURCES USED
NET (RESOURCES USED) /
INCOMING RESOURCES
UNREALISED GAINS/(LOSSES) ON
INVESTMENTS
10
NET MOVEMENT OF FUNDS
BALANCES 1 JANUARY
BALANCES 31 DECEMBER

Unrestricted Restricted Endowment
Total
Total
Funds
funds
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
73,531
1,010
-
74,541
64,173
4,405
900
-
5,305
4,942
1,387
-
-
1,387
2,473
38,573
3,300
-
41,873
41,706
117,896
5,210
-
123,106
113,294
5,095
-
-
5,095
3,636
116,555
2,284
-
118,839
102,368
3,143
394
-
3,537
2,899
2,386
6,465
-
8,851
9,146
127,179
9,143
-
136,322
118,049
(9,283)
(3,933)
-
(13,216)
(4,755)
16,862 -
2,852
19,714
74,660
7,579
(3,933)
2,852
6,498
69,905
815,345
50,873
124,623
990,841
920,936
822,924
46,940
127,475
997,339
990,841

When planning activities, the PCC has considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, in particular the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion.

4

Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
5
Investments
6
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
7
Deposits (at Central Board of Finance)
Cash and bank balances
LIABILITIES: amounts falling due within one
year
8
NET CURRENT ASSETS
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
Unrestricted - General
- Designated
- Total
10a
Restricted
10b
Endowment
10c
£
17,036
881,057

2024
£


898,093



101,620
(2,374)
99,246
997,339
765,966
56,958
822,924
46,940
127,475
997,339
2023
£
23,501
861.342

6,552
57,231
37,837
884,843
5,248
52,657
48,959

106,864

(866)

105,998

990,841

764,163

51,182

815,345

50,873

124,623

990,841

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 27 March 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

The Reverend Robert Thompson (Chairman)

The notes on pages 5 to 11 form part of these accounts.

5

Notes to the accounts

1) Accounting policies

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations as amended by the Church Accounting (Amendment) Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the Charities SORP.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of fixed asset investments, which are shown at market value.

General funds represent the funds of the Parochial Church Council (“PCC”) that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for the general purposes of the PCC.

The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body or those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognised only when received. Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the income is recognised. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement, the amount due is quantifiable and its ultimate receipt by the PCC is reasonably certain. Funds raised by fête, garden party and similar events are accounted for gross.

The diocesan parish share is accounted for when paid.

Rental income from the letting of church premises is recognised when the rental is due.

Interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue.

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC.

Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by s.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 2011.

Movable church furnishings held by the Team Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC, and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted for as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church's Inventory which can be inspected by arrangement with the Churchwardens. For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts. Items costing more than £500 acquired since 1 January 2000 are capitalised and depreciated in the accounts over their anticipated useful economic life. The cost of the organ and other items are depreciated over ten years.

All expenditure incurred in the year on consecrated or beneficed buildings, individual items under £500 or on the repair of movable church furnishings acquired before 1 January 2000 is written off. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of less than £500 are written off when the asset is acquired.

Amounts owing to the PCC as at 31 December in respect of tax reclaimable under Gift Aid, rents or other income are shown as debtors less provision for amounts that may prove uncollectable.

Short-term deposits include cash held on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds or with the Diocese.

Investments are valued at market value as at 31 December.

Realised gains or losses are recognised when investments are sold. Unrealised gains or losses are accounted for on revaluation of investments as at 31 December.

6

Notes to the accounts continued

2) Incoming resources

2a Resources from donos:
Planned giving (BACS and
envelope scheme)
Collections
Donations (including
occasional envelopes)
Tax reclaimed
2bOther voluntary income:
Fundraising
Legacies
Other
2cTrading income:
Fees
2dInvestment income:
Dividends and interest
Rent from Church Hall
Total incoming resources
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
31,204
-
31,204
-
31,204
30,891
11,993
-
11,993
-
11,993
10,260
18,653
-
18,653
1,010
19,663
13,871
11,681
-
11,681
-
11,681
9,151
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
31,204
-
31,204
-
31,204
30,891
11,993
-
11,993
-
11,993
10,260
18,653
-
18,653
1,010
19,663
13,871
11,681
-
11,681
-
11,681
9,151
73,531
-
73,531
1,010
74,541
64,173
4,059
-
4,059
-
-
-
346
-
346
900
4,959
4,942
-
-
-
-
346
-
4,405
-
4,405
900
5,305
4,942
1,387
-
1,387
-
1,387
2,473
1,387
-
1,387
-
1,387
2,473
22,133
6
22,139
-
16,434
16,434
3,300
25,439
25,828
-
16,434
15,878
22,133
16,439
38,573
3,300
41,873
41,706
101,456
16,440
117,896
5,210
123,106
113,294

Dividends earned by the repair fund (£3,300) are restricted for use in maintaining and running the church and are therefore included in restricted funds above.

The PCC has a policy that legacies, unless otherwise restricted by the testator, are held in a designated fund and used for significant projects. No legacies were received in the year (2023: nil).

7

Notes to the accounts continued

3) Resources used

Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
3a
Charitable giving
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
3b
Work of the church:
Parish Share
69,332
- 69,332
-
69,332
70,047
Clergy and training expenses
2,522
-
2,522
-
2,522
1,986
Church running expenses
(including minor repairs)
27,269
- 27,269
-
27,269
11,679
Upkeep of services
1,166
-
1,166
1,024
2,190
3,832
Churchyard and Memorial
Garden
-
-
-
1,260
1,260
130
Church Hall running costs
-
10,664 10,664
-
10,664
9,829
Website & publicity
338
-
338
-
338
816
Salaries and fees
5,264
-
5,264
-
5,264
4,049
105,891
10,664 116,555
2,284
118,839
102,368
3c
Fundraising and trading costs:
Fundraising
3,143
-
3,143
394
3,537
2,899
Magazine
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,143
-
3,143
394
3,537
2,899
3d
Management and Administration:
Admin costs
2,386
-
2,386
-
2,386
2,532
Depreciation
-
-
-
6,465
6,465
6,614
2,386
-
2,386
6,465
8,851
9,146
Total outgoing resources
116,515
10,664 127,179
9,143
136,322
118,049*
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
funds
Total
funds
General Designated
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
5,095
-
5,095
-
5,095
3,636
69,332
- 69,332
2,522
-
2,522
27,269
- 27,269
1,166
-
1,166
-
-
-
-
10,664 10,664
338
-
338
5,264
-
5,264
-
69,332
70,047
-
2,522
1,986
-
27,269
11,679
1,024
2,190
3,832
1,260
1,260
130
-
10,664
9,829
-
338
816
-
5,264
4,049
105,891
10,664 116,555
2,284
118,839
102,368

3,143
-
3,143
-
-
-
394
3,537
2,899
-
-
-
3,143
-
3,143
394
3,537
2,899
-
2,386
2,532
6,465
6,465
6,614
2,386
-
2,386
6,465
8,851
9,146
116,515
10,664 127,179
9,143
136,322
118,049

8

Notes to the accounts continued

4) Staff costs and members' interests

During 2024, the PCC employed Mr W Sarjeant as organist who was paid £2,560 for services (£2,260 in 2023). There were no payments in respect of National Insurance or pensions.

Any payments to Trustees (members of the PCC) were for the reimbursement of expenses only, supported by receipts.

5) Tangible fixed assets

Cost b/f
Additions
Cost c/f
Depreciation b/f
Charge for the year
Depreciation c/f
NBV 1 January 2023
NBV 31 December 2024
Lighting
System
Organ &
furniture
Hall furniture
& equipment
Audio-visual
equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
30,287
83,474
5,176
10,499
129,436
-
-
-
-
-
30,287
83,474
5,176
10,499
129,436
(15,145)
(82,137)
(5,176)
(3,477)
(105,935)
(3,028)
(1,337)
-
(2,100)
(6,465)
(18,173)
(83,474)
(5,176)
(5,577)
(112,400)
15,142
1,337
-
7,022
23,501
12,114
-
-
4,922
17,036

The organ was bought with a grant from The Friends of St Leonards in 2003 and is held in a restricted fund. Various items of furniture have been bought since with money donated specifically for the purpose. Depreciation, which represents 10% of the cost of each item, is charged against this fund. Audio-visual equipment is depreciated over 5 years.

6) Investments

Units
Endowment funds:
Holy Trinity with Christ Church Repair Fund
3,929
Expendable endowment funds:
Bengeo Holy Trinity Church Hall
1,584
Unrestricted funds:
PCC account
1,962
Proceeds from sale of Cowper Crescent
30,628.54
Market
Value 2024
Market
Value 2023
£
£
90,849
88,816
36,626
35,807
127,475
124,623
45,367
44,352
708,215
692,367
753,582
736,719
881,057
861,342

9

The investments are part of the CBF Church of England Investment Fund. This Fund aims to provide a longterm total return comprising growth in capital and income. The Fund is an actively managed, diversified portfolio of assets designed to help protect both present and future beneficiaries from the effects of inflation. It has an emphasis on equities but also includes property, bonds and other asset classes. The Fund is managed in accordance with the policies of the Church of England’s Ethical Investment Advisory Group.

In 2024, the Fund has provided an investment income of £23,910 (2023: £23,544). Market values of these investment has been volatile over recent years. In 2024 there was an investment gain of £19,714. This compares with a gain of £74,660 in 2023, a loss of £106,746 in 2022 and a gain of £114,830 in 2021. The PCC continually reviews its investment portfolio recognising that there will be market fluctuations. The investments are held for the long term.

7) Debtors

Gift Aid amounts due from HMRC
Deferred income
2024
2023
£
£
4,630
3,860
1,922
1,388
6,552
5,248

8) Liabilities: amounts falling due within one year

Creditors 2024
2023
£
£
2,374
866
2,374
866

9) Analysis of assets and liabilities by fund

Fixed assets:
Investments (note 6)
Tangible fixed assets (note 5)
Current assets:
Debtors (note 7)
CBF deposits
Cash and bank
Creditors (note 8)
Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Endowment
funds
Total
Funds
Total
Funds
General
£
Hall
£
Legacy
£
£
£
2024
£
2023
£
753,582
-
-
-
127,475
881,057
861,342

-
-
-
17,036
-
17,036
23,501
6,552
-
-
-
-
6,552
5,248
33,319
5,610
117
18,185
-
57,231
52,657
(25,113)
19,996
31,235
11,719
-
37,837
48,959
(2,374)
-
-
-
-
(2,374)
(866)
765,966
25,606
31,352
46,940
127,475
997,339
990,841

10

Notes to the accounts continued

10) Fund details

a) Unrestricted funds:
General fund
Designated:
Legacy fund
Hall fund
b) Restricted funds:
Lighting system fixed assets fund
Organ & furniture fixed assets fund
Audio-visual fixed assets fund
Bereavement café
Roof & fabric fund
Holy Trinity with Christ Church Repair
Memorial Garden
Flower fund
c) Endowment funds:
CBF units (note 6)
Brought
forward
£
Net increase /
(decrease)
before
unrealised
gains/(losses)
£
Unrealised
gains /
(losses)
£
Transfers
£
Carried
forward
£
764,163
(15,059)
16,862
-
765,966
31,346
6
-
-
31,352
19,836
5,770
-
-
25,606
815,345
(9,283)
16,862
-
822,924
15,142
(3,028)
-
-
12,114
1,337
(1,337)
-
-
-
7,022
(2,100)
-
-
4,922
423
506
-
929
3,061
-
-
-
3,061
15,096
3,300
-
-
18,396
7,926
(1,010)
-
-
6,916
866
(264)
-
-
602
50,873
(3,933)
-
-
46,940
124,623
-
2,852
-
127,475
990,841
(13,216)
19,714
-
997,333

11) Related party transactions

There were no related party transactions during the year (2023: none).

11