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2024-12-31-accounts

PARISH OF KINGSKERSWELL WITH COFFINSWELL

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING REPORT

2024

29[th] April 2025

at 7pm

Held in St Mary’s Church Kingskerswell

Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting on Tuesday, 29[th] April 2025

AGENDA

Annual Meeting of Parishioners at 7pm

To elect 4 Churchwardens (to serve for 1 year)

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Opening Prayers

COMMITTEES

Parochial Church Council (PCC)

There were nine meetings of the PCC between the APCM of April 2024 until April 2025 and one Extraordinary Meeting.

In addition to matters concerning the everyday running of the Church which are covered at each meeting, the following matters are of special importance ….

1. Safeguarding

This subject is on the Agenda for every PCC meeting. Any Parishioner who is aware of such an issue should discuss it with the Parish Safeguarding Officer, Erica Dunn.

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2. Finances

3. Charitable Giving

4. Mission Outreach

5. Fees Kingskerswell PCC paid £36,000 towards the 2024 Parochial Fees. Coffinswell PCC paid £9141 towards the 2024 Parochial Fees.

Social Committee

The Kingskerswell Social Committee, chaired by our Vicar Rev’d Michael Wilkie, has the responsibility of organizing the Parish Church’s social activities which the PCC have approved.

The Committee members comprise of;

Liz Atkinson, Helen Howells, Kaye Hurford, Lyn Kelly, Patricia Rodriguez, Wendy Shillabeer and Sylvia Wightman, with support from Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal also.

PARISH OF KINGSKERSWELL WITH COFFINSWELL – ANNUAL REPORT

Background

The Vicar, along with the St Mary’s Parochial Church Council (the PCC), is responsible for the promotion within the Ecclesiastical Parish, the Mission Action Plan, covering all aspects of the Church’s Mission – Pastoral, Ecumenical and Social.

The PCC also has the responsibility for the maintenance of all buildings – the Church, the Parish Centre, the Coffee Room and Parish Office.

PCC Membership

The members of the PCC are either ex-officio, co-opted, or elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representative Rules.

The following served as members of the PCC IN 2024:

PCC Chairman: Rev Michael Wilkie Ex-Officio Members: Peter Thompson Treasurer (Co-opted 2004) Erica Dunn Deanery Representative Proposed and elected at the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (AMP) 30[th] April 2024 Trevor Heal Churchwarden Sandra Dunford Churchwarden Continuing to serve as PCC members: Dr Stephen Hoskins (Secretary) John Dunn Helen Rowswell Mike Bundy Stuart Devlin Elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) 30[th] April 2024 Helen Howells Proposed and elected at the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (AMP) 9[th] May 2024 Gordon Bower Churchwarden Michele Berry Churchwarden Continuing to serve as PCC members: Sue Bowers (Treasurer) Sarah Barr (Secretary) David Colwill Debbie Blatchford John Lewis

MINUTES FROM 2024 AMP AND APCM

Kingskerswell Parish Church Minutes

Annual Meeting of Parishioners

And

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

30[th] April 2024 at 7pm in Kingskerswell Parish Church

Present: Rev. Michael Wilkie – Chairman

Jacky Biggs, Mike Bundy, Eileen Davies, Eveline Davies, Mike Davies, Stuart Devlin, Geoff Dunford, Sandra Dunford, Erica Dunn, John Dunn, Val Gage, Peter Gage, Trevor Heal, Bernard Hill, Stephen Hoskins (PCC Secretary taking minutes), Helen Howells, Lyn Kelly, Susie Lawrence, David Moate, Sue Rider, Patricia Rodriguez, Helen Rowswell, Mark Rowswell, Wendy Shillabeer, Phil Stevens, Peter Thompson, Rachel Valentine.

Opening Prayers were led by Rev. Michael Wilkie

Annual Meeting of Parishioners

The Vicar, as Chairman, opened the meeting thanking those attending and said copies of the Annual Parochial Church Report 2023 had been circulated by e-mail and “hard copies” left in the church porch. An objection was raised that insufficient copies had been made leaving some in attendance without one. The Vicar apologised and said this would not recur. The Vicar gave a reminder that the purpose of the meeting was to agree the past year activities, any outstanding and new issues should be discussed at future PCC Meetings

Churchwardens: Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal had been nominated and there being no other candidates were duly elected as Churchwardens for the coming year.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

1.Apologies for absence : Vernon Jefferies, Elaine Moate, Anita Osman, Jan Stainer, Jean Strong, Melanie Thorne, Gwen Whittle.

2.To receive the Electoral Roll: Helen Rowswell reported that there were now 83 active members down from 86 the previous year. A copy would be made available in the church porch.

3. Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 25[th] April 2023

Passed unanimously as accurate.

4.The following reports were received:

a) Vicar’s Report g) Churchwarden’s Report / Fabric Report
b) Health and Safety Report
h) Churchyard Report
c) Social Commitee Report
i) Tower Captain’s Report
d) Choir Report
j) Deanery Synod Report
e) Diocese Synod Report
k) Mother’s Union Report
f) Safeguarding Report
l) Flower Report

The Vicar thanked all those for their reports presented and assistance during the past year. Only the following reports generated questions or comments:

5. Treasurer’s Report & Accounts for the year ended 31[st] December 2023

The Treasurer made the following 7 points:

6. To appoint Independent Examiners for the Annual Accounts 2024

David Moate was elected.

7. Election of Officers

Helen Howells was elected to the PCC.

Helen Rowswell was elected as Electoral Roll Officer for the coming year.

8. Election of Parish Clerk

Helen Rowswell was elected unopposed for another year and was thanked by the Vicar on behalf of all those present for her outstanding work taking into account it includes cover for the 3 Wells Community.

9. AOB

The Electoral Roll Officer would need to establish a new roll for next year. The Chair thanked Helen Rowswell for her work.

10. Date of next monthly PCC Meeting

28[th] May 2024 at 7pm

11. The Meeting closed at 8.10 with prayers by John Dunn

CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW COFFINSWELL

MINUTES OF ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

9[TH] MAY 2024

Present: Michael Wilkie (Chair), Michele Berry, Gordon Bower, David Colwill, Sue Bowers, Debbie Blatchford , John Lewis, Sarah Barr (Secretary).

Three Parishioners were present: Jenny Bower, Rob Grainger, Roger Wills

The meeting opened at 7pm with a prayer

  1. The Minutes of the APC held on 23 May 2023 were approved

2. Churchwarden report

Gordon and Michele confirmed that they would stay on until the Merger. It was agreed to seek guidance from the Arch Deacon but Michael thought that as long as maintenance was being monitored then an Assistant Warden would suffice.

The meeting agreed unanimously that Gordon and Michele would remain in post until the merger and there was a vote of thanks to both of them for their sterling service over so many years.

3. Report from Vicar

Michael reconfirmed that as a Chapel of Ease there would be no visible differences to the pattern of services and that the finances would continue to be held and reported separately. He reported that Mervyn was now a resident in Sundial Lodge and it was agreed that gift and photograph of the Church should be presented to him at a suitable time in the future. With help from Michael and Jenny services are being covered and a said Eucharist is always possible. Michael confirmed that Erica Dunn is the Lead for Health and Safety and Safeguarding and it was agreed to adopt the Kingskerswell Safeguarding Policy.

4. Treasurer’s Report

2023 receipts were 68% up due to Parish Giving which is £745 per month/£922 with Gift Aid The Votive had raised £622 in 11 months.

In the absence of Any Other Business the meeting closed with a Prayer at 19:25.

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(a) VICAR’S REPORT Kingskerswell 2024

The church has made encouraging progress this past year. The monthly pattern of services can still usually be managed by the pastoral team - the vicar, our two lay ministers (Ian and John) and our retired clergy (Ruth). We are still seeking new ways of making our services more inclusive and accessible as we address the challenge of connecting to a much wider section of the local community. I would again like to thank John, Ian, and Ruth for their continued willingness to give so much of themselves to their ministries here.

Our links with the school continue to be very strong. I continue as a foundation governor and offer help with the development of monitoring and developing spirituality in the school. I lead weekly assemblies as well as taking part in other school activities.

Sandra Dunford and Heather Cooper have been very active with their “Open the Book” ministry in the classrooms this year. They are always enthusiastically welcomed and appreciated by the children.

The school’s own services at Christmas, Easter and School Leavers continue to be highlights of the year. They pack out the church and are, by far, the most well attended services of the year. There is still a vacant foundation governor role for anyone interested from the church community.

I would also like to thank Heather for all she does for the worship in our church and the choir’s dedication which continues to be greatly appreciated. As a congregation we are very grateful for all the hard work they put in, especially during the Easter and Christmas seasons. Church wouldn’t be the same without them.

We are also greatly indebted to the Bell Ringers. They raise our church’s presence in the village, not just in calling all to Sunday worship, but also for important family events such as weddings, funerals and important national events. Philip’s whole team are an important part of our church and we are very grateful for their special contribution to our ministry.

The Social Committee is a relatively small but very dedicated and hard-working group that do such a magnificent job of organising all our social events. These include all the traditional regulars such as the Harvest Lunch and all the Christmas season celebrations. As a church we are all grateful for the huge efforts behind the success of the two big annual events, the Craft Fair before Christmas and the Springtime Plant Sale. The Light Lunches with a different guest speaker each time, continue to give extra chances to share meals together.

These events are not just social, they have also raised some important funds for the church. After all their hard work, the Social Committee were in a position to pay for an expensive new circuit-board and new floor-tiles in the church, and a large donation for the new kitchen hob in the Parish Centre kitchen.

The House Group continues to meet fortnightly at the vicarage. It offers an informal and friendly space where all are welcome to share stories, ask questions, study the Bible and pray together. We also have shared some good biscuits and other goodies, both home-made and luxury shop-bought – the aim being that at the end of each evening together we can go home feeling fed bother physically and spiritually.

The most challenging aspect of the church’s life is the continuing crisis with the church’s finances. We are indebted to the dedication of a number of people, especially our treasurer Peter, who have enabled us to make steady progress towards being financially stable.

However, it must be clearly highlighted and recognised that even though we are now some three years after the financial crisis provoked by the Covid epidemic, we still have not reached our most basic target of being able to fully pay our monthly “Share” to the Diocese. To ensure the long-term continuity of our church life here, the wardens and PCC are trying to identify further ways to increase and stabilize our regular monthly income. We will not be able to rely on the charity of the Diocese for very much longer.

We have been able to make good savings in the day-to-day running of the church. The solar panels on the roof of the Parish Centre have greatly reduced the costs of the Parish Centre,

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Coffee Room and Office. The installation of under-pew heaters and new lights in the church have greatly reduced the amount of electricity used. These changes have not just saved us money but have helped towards the longer-term Church of England goal to be carbon-neutral by 2030.

In all the work done on the church a special mention must again be given to Geoff Dunford (and his trusty assistant Trevor!) for his enormous generosity of time and energy in his tireless work and dedication to the church fabric. We are all extremely grateful. None of the progress made would have been achievable without him.

I would also like to express my deepest thanks and appreciation to Sandra and Trevor for their tireless dedication and work as Church Wardens this year.

Yet again they have been behind all that has been achieved this year. I would also like to thank all the members of the PCC for all their dedication and support of our church community. The ongoing life of our church could not happen without them.

We also all owe a huge debt of gratitude for the indispensable work of the Church Office. The hard work and dedication shown by Helen and Mercy is absolutely invaluable as it allows the church's’ ministry and activities to continue and to grow. With all that they do and the people they come into contact with, the work of the office is most certainly an important ministry. Thanks and appreciation is also due to those many people who quietly, and often behind the scenes, do so much of the hard work needed to keep our church running. From the hard work of cleaning and producing beautiful flower arrangements, to keeping the grass cut and the churchyard tidy – we could not get by without them.

Together as a church family may we work together to keep our Church as a living, active expression of God’s love and compassion within the wider community of Kingskerswell.

Coffinswell 2024

We have managed to maintain the rota of services the same pattern of 9am every Sunday morning. Although the congregation has remained modest, it remains a viable and encouraging. This is the year when St Bartholomew’s finally became a Chapel of Ease and the single parish became Kingskerswell with Coffinswell. This change was made after a number of years careful consideration. It’s aim is to simplify the practical running of the church and give St Bartholomew’s the potential to continue on as a quiet, sacred space that offers Christian public worship to Coffinswell and surrounding areas.

Sadly this year also saw the loss of long-serving St Bartholomew’s organist Mervyn Gwinnell. Mervyn played at all kinds of services for over 40 years and even composed some of the music for the liturgy. A talented artist, Mervyn’s designs are still being used for the covers of the “Well, Well, Well” magazine.

I would particularly like to express my sincere thanks to Gordon and Michele for being willing to stay on a little longer as wardens, and for Sue Bower for continuing as treasurer. The appeal to Coffinswell village has greatly eased the financial side of keeping St Bartholomew’s open and it’s ministry alive, as well as the discovery that, due to it’s historic nature, the Church Commissioners are responsible for a great deal of the upkeep of the church fabric. There does still remain the very real challenge of identifying people willing to help with practical side of running the church.

Both Kingskerswell and Coffinswell churches face the challenge of fully engaging with a village community that has largely demonstrated little inclination to attend church with any regularity. As churches we aim not to merely to serve the community as a useful resource, but also to preach the gospel by who we are and what we do.

Revd. Michael Wilkie

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(b) CHURCHWARDEN’S REPORTS (INCLUDING FABRIC REPORT) St Mary’s Church, Kingskerswell

“In co-operation with the Vicar-in-Charge, Churchwardens are responsible for the day to day functioning of the Parish Church. These responsibilities include various aspects of administration, building operation and personnel. Their work is not just the maintenance of the church building but helping the smooth running of the church.” (Taken from Exeter Diocese information).

At the Annual Archdeacon’s Visitation held at All Saints’ Church, Torquay. the Ven. Douglas James Dettmer, Archdeacon of Totnes, we were again reminded of our duties including connecting to our local school and community by way of making the most of our building and church grounds. To this, we continue to hope to be seen as making strides this past year in making the most of our facilities.

Activities include the regular “open book” sessions at our local Primary school. We again included the school in the various services prior to the Easter. The church held the school’s Leavers Service in July at which gifts from the Church were presented. Other services included the Christingle and the Annual Christmas Carol service after which we opened the Parish Hall for refreshments.

The Social Committee have been active in organising regular “after service” lunches to promote community inclusion. In addition, the Church has taken part in external events such as the South West Awake in the early Summer and the Devon Historic Churches Day held on the 14[th] September. There has also been a number of visiting bellringers during the year.

In October, we met with the Teignbridge “Green Spaces” contract Manager, responsible for the “closed” churchyard, to highlight areas needing attention. With volunteers from the congregation in the Autumn we began clearing parts of the far end of the church meadow which it is hoped to create a “wet land” environment once the dense over grown vegetation is further cleared, so this will be an ongoing project.

On 3[rd] April 2024 we had the Quinquennial (5 year) Inspection by LePage Architects, the purpose of the review being to ensure all Health & Safety records are being maintained and identify state of repairs requiring attention. Whilst it accepted, at the time of the inspection, electrical works was ongoing (namely replacement of church lighting and heating to meet our Church commitment to Net Zero carbon usage) the report gave recommendations to the buildings’ fabric. The report lists works of repair in Order of Priority over next five years. Anyone wishing to see a copy of the full 36-page report please contact either of the Churchwardens. With the ongoing works on the church identified we arranged in October an “open” meeting with the Trustees of the “Friends of Kingskerswell Church” if funds could be released to help towards completion of works resulting from Phase 1.

During the year we have been able to replace the old lighting and heaters with new LED lights and the move to “under” pew heating units. Alongside this was new electrical circuit boards and switch panel. Replacement of the radiators and upgrading of the gas boiler and pipework. Towards the end of the year work commenced of making good the pipe trench and the covering with matching tiles.

Cost savings to the church of moving to the more energy efficient lighting and heaters is shown by the following figures:

Prior to 2023 Electricity used in church was 19,800 kwh per year

2023 - 8149 kwh used, compared to 2024 – 7567 kwh used 2023 cost was £2724 without the changes it would have cost £5963 2024 cost was £2119 without the changes it would have cost £5046 In the two years cost saving from £11,027 down to £4,843

We are extremely grateful to Geoff Dunford for the time and effort he has taken in the undertaking of these alterations, works which were carried out under the full supervision of a qualified electrician at each stage and duly signed off by that same electrician.

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In November, water damage to the South Transept roof required a roofing contractor to be employed to make good the external rendering and slates. The cost of £2688 was met by funds from the Social Committee, which we pass on our grateful thanks. A summary of the works carried in church during 2024 is as follows;

A summary of the works carried in church during 2024 is as follows;
11/01/24 Temporary heater installed by vestry/choir
15/01/24 Motor in organ failed, Electrician called
21/01/24 Organ failed to start
06/02/24 Electrician repaired organ
19/02/24 G Dunford had installed half of new heaters
22/02/24 Electrician – south aisle heaters connected
24/02/24 Fixing of heaters to north side
11/03/24 Fixing of heaters to side pews
15/03/24 Completon of works in electric box
29/04/24
21/05/24		 Meetng with Diocese (Head of Building) to discuss and agree cable trunking
G Dunford started work on foor pathway for cables to pews
23/05/24 Organ failed; H Cooper managed to re-start
28/05/24 Cables to pews complete, Electrician connected
21/07/24 - 26/07/24 New LED lights in place
07/08/24 Electrician puts in new light switches
19/08/24 – 20/08/24 Electrician - installaton of new circuit board
21/08/24
G Dunford re-laid missing foor tles over cable ducts in aisles
31/08/24 G Dunford replaced slipped slate over porch roof
13/10/24 First Choir heater installed
23/10/24
29/10/24		 Church toilet out of acton, required replacement of new pipework.
Roofng contractor completes external repairs to South Transept roof
04/11/24 Re-alignment of new gas central heatng radiators
07/11/24 Gas plumber working to 7pm
14/11/24 Gas plumber contnues install of new radiators
27/11/24 Work by gas plumber completed install to radiators and pipework
18/12/24 G Dunford cutng slabs for covering pipe trench
21/12/24 G Dunford completed install of choir heaters
We would like to take the opportunity in this report to express our thanks to everyone for all
their tme and support to help us towards the running of our church .. it is very much
appreciated.

Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal – Kingskerswell Churchwardens

ST Bartholomew’s Church (now Chapel of Ease) Coffinswell.

The Churchwardens can report that having completed our Annual Audit of the contents, valuables and fabrics, we are satisfied that everything is in good order. A new purchase of a microwave for the Vestry, has been made to replace the old heating oven.

St Bartholomew’s is now officially a chapel of ease, the dissolution from the status of Parish church having been completed in August 2024. As a PCC we are now amalgamated with the Kingskerswell PCC and have been attending joint PCC meetings. All our services at St Bartholomew’s continue as before, and all our finances are ring fenced. The Parish Share is also calculated separately from that of Kingskerswell. We hope to pay in full, the Coffinswell portion (£8640) of the joint Coffinswell/ Kingskerswell Parish Share. We are now in a more satisfactory financial position due to the Parish Giving Scheme and to the contactless giving in the church, which continue to work well, with also, the significant and generous monthly donations made with the votive candle holder situated by the Font. We are extremely grateful for these contributions and hope that there will be more parishioners joining the Parish Giving Scheme. The smallest donations in the church help towards the ever present need of maintenance of our beautiful building.

The work required to complete the 37 recommendations of the 2024 Quinquennial, has started with the main requirement of repairs to the roof which have now been completed. We are grateful to the Church

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Commissioners who have contributed significantly to the cost of the roof repairs in the Chancel area, our funds contributing £1860. We now have to work through the other recommendations in order of priority.

A significant cost (£900) to our funds was incurred in the felling of the Oak tree in the churchyard, which was fatally damaged in one of our many recent gales. We still have a pile of logs from the felling, which are available for a contribution to the church fabric fund.

Since our last report, our organist, Mervyn, who had retired last year due to ill health, has sadly died. A plaque in remembrance of his great service to the church has been affixed to the organ. Jenny Bower continues to play the organ regularly for us as does Michael Roberts, to whom and for which we are so appreciative in the enhancement of our weekly services.

Our congregation remains small although it fluctuates. We so value the valiant small group of volunteers, who continue to clean, and to decorate the church beautifully with graceful and delicate displays, so appropriate to our simple, small 12[th] century church.

We are always grateful to Helen and Mercy in the office for their valued support.

For our regular services, we are grateful to our Parish priest, Michael Wilkie, also to the Reverend Canon Ruth Oates, John Dunn and Ian Firth, who volunteer their time when possible. Michèle Berry and Gordon Bower, Churchwardens.

(c) HEALTH AND SAFETY REPORT

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is responsible and accountable for the Health and Safety for St.Mary’s Church Kingskerswell. We have a H&S strategy which is underpinned with a regularly reviewed H&S Policy with it being included in monthly PCC meetings for any issues arising. We continue not having a duly elected Health & Safety Advisor, whilst the Vicar and Churchwardens are responsible for the day-to-day management and review of H&S and will continue to monitor and Health & Safety related matters along with the PCC. Irrespective of any delegation, the PCC remains accountable for Health and Safety. Emergency and First Aid procedures are documented and equipment subject to regular checks during the year. All service records of equipment (PAT tests) checks made during the year are available for inspection in the Parish Office together with all Public Liability insurance policies. Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal - Churchwardens

(d) SAFEGUARDING REPORT

In May 2024 parishes within Exeter Diocese participated in an independent external safeguarding audit. The purpose of the audit was to ensure dioceses and cathedrals are doing all they can to create environments where everyone feels safe, valued and respected and was completed nationally. Following publication of the Makin report in November 2024 the Church of England lead bishop for safeguarding described the requirements for a Safer Church.

On Sunday 17 November we again supported Safeguarding Sunday this is a yearly event held every November to raise awareness of safeguarding.

The safeguarding dashboard has been updated to a safeguarding hub and includes a detailed action plan to ensure we all meet our safeguarding responsibilities. This includes policies, raising awareness, training, safer recruitment, risk assessments and appropriate DBS checks for those involved in work with vulnerable adults and children.

The diocese has a very supportive Safeguarding team and our PCC’s are committed, through our church community, to the support, nurture and safeguarding of all, especially the young and vulnerable and will

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Erica Dunn Parish Safeguarding Representative

continue the focus on updating the safeguarding hub, further training and DBS checks over the next 12 months.

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(e) CHURCHYARD REPORT

For the year 2024 the Churchyard Maintenance Account income was £2,489.96 and the expenditure was £3,116.36 which gave an overall loss for the year of £586.40.

The income from donations for 2024 amounted to £2330 and our sincere thanks go to all of you who regularly and generously donate to the churchyard fund. Without these donations, we would really struggle to maintain a healthy credit balance. The Service for All Soul’s Day raised £159.95. The expenditure for 2024 amounted to £3,116.36. Unfortunately, a dead sycamore tree had to be removed and this cost £1080. The remaining expenditure included the cost of lawn mowing, hedge trimming, fuel for the mower, the annual charge for the green recycling bin and for generally keeping the churchyards tidy. A self-set holly tree was removed from the old churchyard and this was carried out by Teignbridge District Council at no cost.

In March 2024 it was decided to start using the Churchyard Extension for Cremation plots. This was due to the fact that in the Old Churchyard it was becoming very wet underfoot due to the grass not thriving under the trees and the New Churchyard Cremation Plot area was becoming rather full. The low cost of maintenance in the New Churchyard and Churchyard Extension is due to Geoffrey Dunford. Mike Howard maintains the Old Churchyard and has always looked after the Memorial Garden which is situated between the churchyard and the stream. As always my sincere thanks go to Geoffrey and Mike for giving freely of their time to keep the churchyards looking neat and tidy. As always the sole purpose of a Churchyard Maintenance Fund is to provide a tidy and well-cared for Churchyard where people are able to come and sit peacefully in beautiful surroundings to reflect their memories of those they have loved and lost.

If anyone would like more information regarding the running of the churchyard or wish to make a contribution towards its upkeep, either by cash, cheque or Banker’s Order please contact the Parish Church Office (01803) 873006 for further details.

Wendy Hinchcliffe, Churchyard Treasurer

(f) TOWER CAPTAIN’S REPORT

We rang for all the main services at both Kingskerswell and Coffinswell, the only exception being one of the Christmas carol services as both were at the same time. Practices were normally at Kingskerswell, but two were at Coffinswell, We rang for 4 weddings at Kingskerswell and 5 funerals. This included Mervyn Gwinnell, organist at Coffinswell, Mike Davies, who was a keen supporter of the ringers, and Barbara Elliot. The highest attendance at practices was 16 on 3 occasions. Progress is being made with method ringing, but so often we are unable to do more than plain hunting. James, Mia and Alesha can plain hunt, with Alesha doing particularly well. We rang in the New Year at Kingskerswell as usual, and gathered at Philip and Mo’s house beforehand.

Sue Hinds has been unable to return on a regular basis, but we have regularly kept in touch during the year. Malcolm continues to come to practices, and at the beginning of the year was joined by Kate Marsh, also from Berry Pomeroy, and she is progressing well. Steve and Sue Robinson very enthusiastically started to learn in June, but had to give up after a month when Sue found that ringing was affecting her health. They would love to return, but that would seem to be unlikely at the moment.

6[th] of June was the 80[th] anniversary of D Day and we rang out for peace at Kingskerswell at 6.30pm as part of the national commemoration. We had our half day outing and annual dinner on 23[rd] March. We rang at Buckland in the Moor, Holne and Kingsteignton. Our dinner was at the Ten Tors in Kingsteignton. This year we were able to hire the Kingscare minibus for our annual outing on 14[th] September. We had a very successful day going to Somerset, and ringing at Langford Budville, Nynehead, Hillfarrance, Bishop’s Hull and West Buckland.

We had another tower open day in September as part of the Devon Historic Churches Day. We demonstrated ringing and took people to the top of the tower. All had the opportunity to have a go, but we were unsuccessful in recruiting any ringers. We also welcomed the Heart of the West Oddfellows at Kingskerswell in November and several people had a go at ringing and ascended to the top of the tower.

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We had 5 visiting bands (2 were at Coffinswell) and we hosted a Mid Devon Branch ‘Meet the Branch Day’ in April at Kingskerswell and Coffinswell. 4 peals and 2 quarter peals were rung at Kingskerswell. The peal in April was rung to celebrate Mo and Pauline’s 80[th] birthdays and also Philip’s birthday, all on the same day.

I thank everyone for their support during the year and also to Mike Mears for his continued support at Coffinswell.

Although we have 21 members on our books, and generally have enough for our service ringing and practices at the moment, I am very aware that we have an aging band (13 of us are over 70, including 4 over 80), and it is so difficult to recruit new ringers. It can take a considerable time for learners to become proficient ringers and I am concerned that unless we can attract new people soon, there is an increasing danger that our band will become very depleted. With this in mind, I have started to publicise the need for new ringers in the magazine, the weekly sheet, and on Facebook, but so far, no response.

Philip Stevens, Tower Captain

(g) CHOIR REPORT

We are opening this years report by paying tribute to our much beloved Doreen (Perryman) who passed away on the 12[th] of June last year. She is missed very much by the choir and congregation. Doreen was a loyal and caring member of St. Mary's church and played a very active role in all church activities during her life.

It is with much gratitude to our inspirational organist, Heather, that we have maintained a full and enjoyable program of music for all aspects of worship. We also would like to thank Sandra for her excellent choice of hymns for our services.

The ‘Big Sing’ in January proved to be very popular and enjoyed by all who participated. We continue to maintain a strong spiritual fellowship within our choir and find our weekly practice on Thursday evening to be very uplifting. Unfortunately, due to long-term health problems, Wendy Wilson has had to step down from the choir. We wish her well and thank her for a contribution to me to our services.

We would like to thank reverent, Michael, the lay readers church wardens and congregation for their continuing support.

We are looking forward to the coming year with much enthusiasm under Heathers excellent direction and leadership.

Helen Howells, Choir Representative

(h) DEANERY REPORT

In the last 12 months there have been three deanery meetings which were held in June, October and February in Churches across the deanery including here at St Marys Kingskerswell. The meetings are chaired by the Rural Dean Andrew Down and begin with a presentation. The presentations included;

The presentations encouraged discussion and support with ideas for Church growth and increased giving. Brigit offered to attend Church services/PCC meetings to support discussion and understanding around generosity and giving. I have suggested to the PCC this is an offer we should accept.

Finance reports are presented, in October the report indicated that our Deanery in the Totnes Archdeaconry had paid 84% of the common fund to date. There was no finance report presented in February.

A report from the February General Synod meeting was provided. Safeguarding, Church governance and clergy discipline were discussed at synod. There was agreement to move to an independent safeguarding scrutiny body.

16

Limited time was given to moving forward with living in love and faith proposals. The next deanery meeting will be held on 10 June 2025. Erica Dunn Deanery Representative

(i) MOTHERS’ UNION REPORT

The few members of the Mothers Union continue to meet on the second Monday of each month throughout the year the Coffee Room, Parish Centre at 2:00 PM. We held our AGM in January enjoyed a chat discussing an outline of meetings for the following year. February was taken up with the many updates from Mary Sumner House head office in London, and ended with tea and biscuits and knitting patterns for MU projects for babies.

We had two birthday parties, one in April and one in October, and in July and August we were invited to the home and garden of Liz who lives in Ogwell, for afternoon tea. We prayed for Ursula, our former Hospitality Correspondent, who was in hospital and unable to be present. Our speakers included Reverend Michael Wilke who described the early years of his ministry in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He showed us interesting slides of his place of worship, the Anglican Cathedral dedicated to St John the Baptist, and the area where he lived. He ministered there for 15 years before coming to Kingskerswell in 2020. Our member Margaret gave us a talk about her journey to becoming a vet’s wife, and in September James, another member, continued his life story after he left the Royal Navy to becoming a Rank Xerox photocopier engineer and expert. In November we had a talk by Audrey’s daughter Deborah as she described her 10 days visit to Nigeria, meeting the local people and visiting the Amucha Maternity Hospital in the dioceses of Orla. Deborah had some very interesting slides and we enjoyed her talk very much. We are very grateful to all our speakers and hosts and we thank them very much for their time and talks.

At Christmas we went once again to the Livermead House Hotel, Torquay, for our Christmas lunch together with members of the church congregation, and in all 18 sat down to lunch. This had been arranged by Jean, but because of her illness, sadly she was unable to join us. The Mothers Union is a worldwide organisation which raises funds to help families and communities in both Britain and across the world, especially in Africa where the lives of women and girls in particular are improved by education with help from the Mother’s Union. If you would like to know what work the MU does at home and overseas, please come along to a meeting for a chat, tea or coffee, cake or biscuits, and fellowship. All are welcome, including gentlemen and those who are not mothers. Come and discover what this huge worldwide charity does in 84 countries across the world. For more information, please contact me on 01803 404779 or email gandsdunford@outlook.com

Sandra Dunford, Branch Leader

(j) FLOWER REPORT

Flowers were provided and arranged in the Parish Church throughout 2024, apart from during Lent, greenery was used during advent.

Additional arrangements were provided for the major religious festivals i.e. Christmas and Easter. Several members of the regular congregation made donations for flowers dedicated to the memories of loved ones.

In April, the Church Social Committee elected to support the flower fund by donating 25% of the profit for their events which has proven to be invaluable and without which I would be unable to provide flora decorations throughout the year in our beautiful 13[th] century (almost!) church.

Thank you Social Committee!

Jenny Benney, Church Florist

17

(l) SOCIAL COMMITTEE REPORT

It is my pleasure to report on the activities of the Social Committee for 2024. We continued to meet in the Parish Rooms, although during the year the meeting time was changed to 1700. We meet monthly and this year we did not have a break.

Rev. Michael Wilkie continued to chair the meeting, the Treasurer is Helen Rowsell to whom monies collected are paid and Peter Thomson includes Social Committee finances in his Annual Report. There is no need for a secretary as Helen Rowsell deals with correspondence. Patricia Rodriguez continues to take and distribute notes of the meetings and distribute copies of the agenda at each meeting.

During the year Jackie Mellor joined the Social Committee and our churchwardens, Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal continued to attend meeting. After the outdoor Carol Service in 2023 a donation was made to the Scouts for the loan of their Gazebo. The Social Committee finances were seen to be in a healthy state and at our March meeting it was agreed to give 25% of the profits from the events organised by the Social Committee to the Flower Fund. This has continued to the present time. We have also contributed funds to the work carried out in the Church, for both the Circuit Board and repairs to the South Transept Roof. One of our Committee members, Sylvia Wightman, made 11 lovely tablecloths for use at the different meals. We expressed our thanks to Sylvia. Committee members have been involved in organising and also providing catering/refreshments for the following events:

Easter services

Plant Sale 6[th] April 2024 Light Lunch 26[th] April 2024 Harvest Lunch 29th September 2024 Parish Light Lunch 20[th] October 2024 2[nd] November 2024 Craft Fair Christmas Lunch 15[th] December 2024 Inside Carol Concert 22[nd] December 2024 Additionally in January 2024 we began hosting and arranging a light lunch after church on a Sunday, every two months, with a break during the summer months. There is also a speaker on each of these occasions. Each member of the committee is valued for their individuality and contribution to the success of the events in which we have either helped or organised. We would welcome new members to the Social Committee, currently we meet on the 1[st] Tuesday of each month at 1700 (5pm) in the coffee rooms. We would like to thank all those who have supported us over the past year, including church members, volunteers and the wider community. We look forward to a successful 2025. Patricia Rodriguez, Committee member.

Treasurer’s Reports on separate attachment

18

Parish of St Mary'5 Kingskerswell Year ended 31 December 2024 Contents Page IndepeTtdent Exgminers Reportto the Parochial Church Council Siatetnent of the responsibilities of the members of the Parochial Church Councal Balance Sheel Statement of financial arttvitte5- incoming re50urce5 Resources used Accounting policies Notes to the accounts 9-16

Parish ofst Mary's Kingsker5w¢II Indtptndent Examiner'5 Repori to the Parochial Church Couneil of St Mary's Kingsktrswell 5 report on Ehe accoun15 of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2024 which are set out on pages 3 to 16. Respectiv¢ responsibilities of the tritstees ind ex8rniuers As the tnembers of the PCC you are responsible foi Ihe preparation (Trf the accounis.. you considerthat the audit requiremeni of the Chariiies Act 2(M)6 {the Acil does not apply. It is my responsibility to state, on the basis of procedures specified in the Generdl Directions given by the Charity Commissioners under the Charities Aci 2006, whetherparticularmatt¢r% have come io my attention. Bxsilof independent examiner'5 report My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Direction5 given by the Charity Commi55ioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the Parochial Church Council and a omparison of ihe accounts wilh th05e Tecords. It also includes ¢onsidering any unusual items or di5e105ures in the accounts and seekingexplanations from you as trustee5 conceming any such tnatters. The procedures undertaken do noi PT(Trvide all the evidence that would be Teqyired in art audii, and consequentty I do noi express an audit ¢)pinion on the view given by the accowjts. Independent examin¢r's stxtement In ¢(Trnnection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention.. Which gives me reasonable eause to believe that in any tnaterial respect the requirements io keep ac¢ounling record5 in accordance with th¢ Charities Act," and to prepare accounts which accord wilh ihe accounting records and comply with the regulations, as also contained in the Church Accounting Regulations have noi been mel,. 01 to which. in my opinion, allention should be drawn in order to ¢nable a properundeTStanding of the accountsto be reached. IDdependeDt examiner's recomtndation I recomend that none of the charities bank accounts b¢ held in individual nam¢5 and that they all be registerecd in the name of the charity. Signed (DJ Moatel tht¢ 12 March 2025 Addres5 26 Boundary Close Kingsker5well TQ12 5BP

Statement oftht Re5ponsibilitles of the Members of the p8r￿￿1&1 Church Council The members are required 10 prepare finanLial 5tatem¢nts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the council and of th¢ surplus ordeficit of the council for that period. In pr¢pAringthose fmanti￿ Statements. the m¢mbeTS are requird to.. Select suitsbl¢ accounting policie5 and apply them ¢ons]si￿r1Y Make judgements and es(imates that are reasonable and Prudent The members are responsible for keeping propeT accountingr¢¢ordswhich disclosewith reasonabl¢ accurdcy at any time the fmaneial position of the council. They are also responsible for safeguaTding the assets of the council and hencetaking reasonable Steps for the preveniion and deieclion of fraud and other irre8ulaTities.

P8rish of St Mary's King5kerswell Bal?Dce Sheet as gt 31112n024 Un- restricied R¢strici¢d 2024 2023 Note5 Fixed A55ets Tangible fixed &8sets invesffiient5 143.012 143.012 146.059 21,550 21.550 21,068 21.550 164.562 167.127 143.012 CurreDt assets Debtor5 Stock Cash ai bank and in hand 1.759 1.759 30,744 32,SOi 9.100 9.100 39.843 66,921 41,602 66,921 Li#biliti¢5: Amounts falling due within one year 14.510 -91 -14,601 15.661 Net ¢urr¢nt assets (liabilities) 17.993 9,009 27,002 51.260 Net assets 161,005 30559 191.564 218.389 Funds 161.005 30,559 191.f 64 218.389 Approved by the Parochial Church Council and signed on its behalf.. Rev. M Wilkie Vicar S Dunford Churchwgrd¢n S P Thompson - Treasurer Dxte 25 Febnwy 2025

Parish of St Mary's Kingskerswell Ststement of Financlal Activities Ytxr ended 31 Decernber 2024 Uttre51ricted Restricted Notes 2024 2023 INCOMIJYG RESOURCES Planned Giving - Covenanted and non covenanted Tax recoverable General collection Special collectlQD 32.502 6.970 3.676 32.502 30,740 6,970 7,505 3.676 43.148 43,148 44,358 Voluntgry income Other voluntary ittcome DoRations- Special gift - Other 7,894 6,418 7.894 6,418 10.000 7.915 375 Lega¢i¢5 Other volutary income 14,312 14.312 18,290 Gr055 income frorn events find activiti Income from Churchyard Income from SocEal Committee 21.609 3.506 2.698 24,307 21,900 3.506 3.293 12 Income from Parish Centre 27.444 27,444 24.580 Sal¢ of goods Incorne from Church Magazine Listed Places of Worship GTani Scheme- VAT refund Hou%¢ Communion 10 1.661 1,661 1.348 Bell-Ringers Fund Income Hire of Parish Church 1.506 1.506 641 914 Sunday Kidz Account Flower AltaT Fund income 1.735 58,100 1.735 60,799 54.287 960 2,698 Otber income Income Irom ittve5tment Total incoming resourees clfwd 13 6)8 638 464 116.199 2,698 118.897 117.400

Parish of St Mary's K&Dgskerswell Statement of Financial Activities {continu¢d) Year ended JI December 2024 Total Tot¥1 21123 Unrestricted Rt5trieted 2024 Notes Total in¢omiNg resouTC¢$ wfwd 116.199 2,698 118.897 117.400 Total resources used (Pige 6) 143,094 -26,895 3,116 146,210 69.749 418 -27,)13 47.651 Net iD¢oming resource5 Gains and losses on inve5tments.' realised -unTealised Movemenl in funds 482 71 1,826 -26.824 49,477 -26.895 Balance5 broughi forwwd ai l January 2024 Transfer 187,900 30,488 218,388 168.909 B8lan¢e$ carried forward at 31 Decernber 2024 161.005 30.559 191,564 218.i89

Plrlsh of st Mary's Kingsk¢r5WtII Resource5 Used Year ended 31 December 21124 Total 2024 Tot41 2023 Unrestrict¢d Restricted Notes Gr4nts Charitable Donations 894 894 1,157 Directly relating to the work of the church Clergy. Parochial share 36,000 2.653 36,000 2.653 11.148 7.536 ,355 Vi¢ar's otTice ex￿n5¢S Chtsrch Clerk 15 Fees 7,101 7,101 3.820 2.197 ChuTchyard expenses Light. heat and water Repairs- general Insurance 3.116 3,116 5.439 31.782 3,913 273 5.439 6,628 2,173 7.371 31,782 3,913 273 Aliar goods DepTeciaiion Organist and choir Flower Altar Fund expendiiure Sunday Kidz Account Bell-Ring¢rs Fund expenses (hher Parochial ¢xpen5es Parish Centre Isite expen5¢S Magazin¢ costs 508 3.048 3,048 1.698 3,048 1.698 1.095 1827 1,891 1,891 1,066 1.066 1396 27.093 828 27.093 15,891 828 133.933 3.116 137,049 66,559 F￿nd rBising and publi£ity Social commillee cost￿dOnatIOAS Church rnanagement administr*tlo Printing, stationel). photocopying, p)stage. Examiners fees 12 5.814 5.814 349 2,403 50 2.453 2.403 50 2,453 1,634 50 1.684 Tot81 elpendit￿re (transferTed to page 51 143,094 3.116 146.210 69,749

Accounting Policies Year Ended 31 December 2024 The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Churth Accounting Regulations together with opplicable accounting standards and the Charitie5 SORP. The financial statements hove been prepared under the historical cost convention (except for the revaluation of investmenetsl. Funds General funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for opplicotion on the general purposes of the PCC. These include funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC. The purpose of any restricted funds is noted in the accounts. The accounts include transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC can be heSd responsible. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe an affiliation to another body nor those that are infonnal gatherings of church members. Incoming Resources Volentary income and capital resources Amounts receivable under covenant are recognised only when honoured by the convenontor. Income tax recoverable on covenanted or gift aid donations is recognised when cloimable. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for os soons as the PCC is notified of its entitlement and the likely amount due. Funds raised by the fetei garden party and similar events are accounted for net. Sales of books and magazines from the thurch bookstoll are accounted for net. Other ordinary income Rental income f rom the letting of church premises is accounted for when receivable. Parochial fees due to the Parochial Church Council for weddings, funerals etc. are accounted for one an event by event basis.

Income from inveslment Dividends and interest are accounted for when received. Tox recoverable on suth income is occrued for on the same basis. Application of Resources Grants Gronts and donations are accounted for when paid. The Parochial shore is accounted when payable and any quota unpaid at 31 December is shown as a creditor in the Balance Sheet. Fixed Assets Consecrated and beneficed property is excluded from the accounts by 5.9612){c) of the Charities Act 1993. No value is placed on movable church furnishings held by the Churchwordens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal since the PCC considers this to be an inalienable property. All expenditure incurred during the year in consecrated or benef iced buildings and moveable church furnishings, whether maintenance or improvement, is written off. Other land and buildings Other land and bvildings held on behalf of the PCC for its own purposes is shown at cost. No depreciation is charged against such properties but any expenditure on maintenance or improvement is written off os incurred. Other fixtures, fillings and office equipment Equipment used is written off at the rate of l O % per annum using the reduced balancing method. Investmenls Investments are valued at market value. Current assets Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rents or other income are shown as debtors less any provision for the amounts that may prove uncollectible. Short term deposits include cash on deposit with the Central Board of Finance at the bank.

Parish of St Mary's Kingskerswell Ntstes on the A¢¢ounts Ye#r ended 31 December 2024 Fixed Assets Pari$h ImproveTr Fixtures Centre Parish Centrt Total Cost at l January 2024 Addiliorts in Year At 31 D¢¢ernber 2024 63.313 85.794 46.521 195,629 63,313 85,794 46.521 195.629 Depreciation At l January 2024 Charge for year 3,048 3,048 46,521 49,569 3.048 At 31 December 2024 6.096 46,521 52.617 Nei book *mountS At 31 Deeember 2024 63.313 79.698 143,012 At 31 December 2023 63,313 82.745 146.059

Parish of St Mxry'5 Kingskerswell Notes on the Aecount5 Year ended 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Investrnentj At rnarket value 932 Shares Central Board of Finance 21,550 21,550 21,068 21,068 At cost 932 Shares Central Board of Finance 244 244 244 244 3. Cash at b#nk and in h4nd 2024 2023 National Westminster Bank 2 Reserve accounl 29 28 Cash at National wes￿￿]nster Bank 7.116 30.820 Cash at National WestsninsteT Bank- (kgan Fund ChuTch Fund Cash at CCLA Account 895 850 Cash a¢ National W¢sltninster Bank- Chutchyard maintenance 4,031 4,646 Churchyard Maintenance Cash at CCLA Account Cash hand {FloweT Altar fund) Cash at Naiional Westminster Bank- 4.392 4.223 657 535 club,￿S0¢1ety reserve No l account Cash at National Westminsier Bat]k- 559 551 Sunday and Wednesday Coffe¢ Mornings- Cash Social account 4.834 7,140 Bell-Rin8ers Sunday Kidz Accounrs Kingskerswell Relief tn Sickness Charity (r]rst included 2012) Parish Centre Cash at CCLA Account 2.319 1.880 677 665 8,791 3,607 Parish Centre Fund 5.543 11,976 66,921 39.84J Re5tridiYe Funds

Parilh ofst Mary's Kingskerswell Notes on the Aeeounts Year tnded 31 December 2024 2024 2023 4. Debtors Gift Aid Claim 1.759 1,759 S. Current Lilbilities Church electriciry bill ouiistsnding Parish Centre Solar Panel Loan Churchyard Mainienan¢e (hher- Sunday Kidz 700 13,810 91 15.310 241 14,601 15.661 6. Funds The income fvnds of the charity include re5tTlCt¢d funds held on trust for sp¢¢ific purposes as follow5 Balance Incorning Unrealised Outgoing Balance l Januar resources gain resources 31st Dec 2024 2024 Investments for Churchyard mainienance 21.068 482 21,550 Churchyard maintenance 8,751 2.698 -3,116 8,333 fimd Parish site Kingskerswell Relief in Sickness Charity (first included 20121 670 677 30.489 2.705 482 -3.116 30.559

Parish of St Mary's Kingskerswell Notes on the Accounts Ye8r ended 31 Dteember 2024 6. Funds {eontinued) The transfer between fvnds relaies to.. The restricted fijnds cornprise.. (a} The Organ Fund is for the maintenance of the organ and choir expenses. (b) The Churchyard Investmenl and Maintenance Funds aTe for the tnaint¢nance of the churchyard and graveyard. (¢1 Parish Site Fund which 15 income specifL¢alty raised to finance the new parish site. (d) Tower FurEd is income receiv¢d for the repair of the church lower. (e) s￿claI gifts are donations received for 5p¢cial events. 12

Parish of St Mary's Kingsker5well Notes on the Accounts Year eDd¢d 31 De¢emb¢r 2024 7. Oiher Parochi41 Expenses 2024 21123 Transfer to Churchyard Maintenance Fund Other 13

2024 2023 8. Churchyard Account P#ri5h of St Mary's King$kerswell Yexr ended 31 Decernb¢r 2024 Fees, Weddings and funerals Deduct fees Surpl 19,205 -7,101 12.104 15,400 -3,820 11.580 Churchyard ineome Monument ftts 2.404 169 2,530 5.102 1.799 174 CCLA Interest Donations 4.527 6.500 Dedu¢t expenses.. Generat Surplu5 -3.116 1.986 -2.197 4,303 Totol Surplus 14.090 15183 14

P8ri%h of St Mary's KiDg5kerswell Notts on the Accounts Yegr ellded 31 December 2024 2,024 2023 9. Parish Centre Account Rents received Donations CCLA Investhient interest 24.408 24,471 2.851 184 110 27.444 24,580 Deduct expenses Mainienance 9.794 4,819 1,638 172 1,083 2.499 4.707 3,747 306 Cleaning costs El¢ctricity. ga5, telephone Repairs Other 70 InsuraDC¢ Water 1,262 3325 1,362 3200 AdmsnisiTation Donation to Chur¢h Toial expendiiure Surplusl (10s51 5000 27,093 j51 15,891 8.689 10. Good5 for resale Poreh sales Tradecraft Sal¢s Surplus I I. PArish News Sales l Advertising 1,661 1.348 1,661 1,348 Deduct expenses Priniing and Station¢ry Surplus -828 833 1.348 12. Social Committet Account tncome 3,506 3.506 3,293 3,293 Le55 Cost￿DOnatIOn Surplus 5.814 -2.309 349 2.944 Note-. tk)nation includes donaiion for Church repairs £4700

P4ri$h of St M8ry'5 Kingsktrswell Notes on th¢ Accounts Year ended 31 tkcember 2024 2024 2023 IJ. Income (rotD investmeNt Bank interesi 638 464 Dividends 638 464 14. Other voluntary income 15. Staff cost5 Council expense5 Other than ieitnbursement of costs, Church Clerks 11.712 16. Donations from Trustee5 (PCC members) during the Year During 2024 ST Mary's PCC received £7,374.88 donation5 from trustees IPCC members) and th¢ir close relatives. The donors did not attach any conditions to their gifts which required the ¢harity {PCCI to significantly alter the nature of its existing aciiyiiies. The £7.374.88 15 included in on Page 4- Incoming Resources- Planned Giving- CovenaTtted and non covenated £32,502. 16

PARISH OF KINGSKERSWELL WITH COFFINSWELL

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING REPORT

2024

29[th] April 2025

at 7pm

Held in St Mary’s Church Kingskerswell

Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting on Tuesday, 29[th] April 2025

AGENDA

Annual Meeting of Parishioners at 7pm

To elect 4 Churchwardens (to serve for 1 year)

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Opening Prayers

COMMITTEES

Parochial Church Council (PCC)

There were nine meetings of the PCC between the APCM of April 2024 until April 2025 and one Extraordinary Meeting.

In addition to matters concerning the everyday running of the Church which are covered at each meeting, the following matters are of special importance ….

1. Safeguarding

This subject is on the Agenda for every PCC meeting. Any Parishioner who is aware of such an issue should discuss it with the Parish Safeguarding Officer, Erica Dunn.

.

2. Finances

3. Charitable Giving

4. Mission Outreach

5. Fees Kingskerswell PCC paid £36,000 towards the 2024 Parochial Fees. Coffinswell PCC paid £9141 towards the 2024 Parochial Fees.

Social Committee

The Kingskerswell Social Committee, chaired by our Vicar Rev’d Michael Wilkie, has the responsibility of organizing the Parish Church’s social activities which the PCC have approved.

The Committee members comprise of;

Liz Atkinson, Helen Howells, Kaye Hurford, Lyn Kelly, Patricia Rodriguez, Wendy Shillabeer and Sylvia Wightman, with support from Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal also.

PARISH OF KINGSKERSWELL WITH COFFINSWELL – ANNUAL REPORT

Background

The Vicar, along with the St Mary’s Parochial Church Council (the PCC), is responsible for the promotion within the Ecclesiastical Parish, the Mission Action Plan, covering all aspects of the Church’s Mission – Pastoral, Ecumenical and Social.

The PCC also has the responsibility for the maintenance of all buildings – the Church, the Parish Centre, the Coffee Room and Parish Office.

PCC Membership

The members of the PCC are either ex-officio, co-opted, or elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representative Rules.

The following served as members of the PCC IN 2024:

PCC Chairman: Rev Michael Wilkie Ex-Officio Members: Peter Thompson Treasurer (Co-opted 2004) Erica Dunn Deanery Representative Proposed and elected at the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (AMP) 30[th] April 2024 Trevor Heal Churchwarden Sandra Dunford Churchwarden Continuing to serve as PCC members: Dr Stephen Hoskins (Secretary) John Dunn Helen Rowswell Mike Bundy Stuart Devlin Elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) 30[th] April 2024 Helen Howells Proposed and elected at the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (AMP) 9[th] May 2024 Gordon Bower Churchwarden Michele Berry Churchwarden Continuing to serve as PCC members: Sue Bowers (Treasurer) Sarah Barr (Secretary) David Colwill Debbie Blatchford John Lewis

MINUTES FROM 2024 AMP AND APCM

Kingskerswell Parish Church Minutes

Annual Meeting of Parishioners

And

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

30[th] April 2024 at 7pm in Kingskerswell Parish Church

Present: Rev. Michael Wilkie – Chairman

Jacky Biggs, Mike Bundy, Eileen Davies, Eveline Davies, Mike Davies, Stuart Devlin, Geoff Dunford, Sandra Dunford, Erica Dunn, John Dunn, Val Gage, Peter Gage, Trevor Heal, Bernard Hill, Stephen Hoskins (PCC Secretary taking minutes), Helen Howells, Lyn Kelly, Susie Lawrence, David Moate, Sue Rider, Patricia Rodriguez, Helen Rowswell, Mark Rowswell, Wendy Shillabeer, Phil Stevens, Peter Thompson, Rachel Valentine.

Opening Prayers were led by Rev. Michael Wilkie

Annual Meeting of Parishioners

The Vicar, as Chairman, opened the meeting thanking those attending and said copies of the Annual Parochial Church Report 2023 had been circulated by e-mail and “hard copies” left in the church porch. An objection was raised that insufficient copies had been made leaving some in attendance without one. The Vicar apologised and said this would not recur. The Vicar gave a reminder that the purpose of the meeting was to agree the past year activities, any outstanding and new issues should be discussed at future PCC Meetings

Churchwardens: Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal had been nominated and there being no other candidates were duly elected as Churchwardens for the coming year.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

1.Apologies for absence : Vernon Jefferies, Elaine Moate, Anita Osman, Jan Stainer, Jean Strong, Melanie Thorne, Gwen Whittle.

2.To receive the Electoral Roll: Helen Rowswell reported that there were now 83 active members down from 86 the previous year. A copy would be made available in the church porch.

3. Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 25[th] April 2023

Passed unanimously as accurate.

4.The following reports were received:

a) Vicar’s Report g) Churchwarden’s Report / Fabric Report
b) Health and Safety Report
h) Churchyard Report
c) Social Commitee Report
i) Tower Captain’s Report
d) Choir Report
j) Deanery Synod Report
e) Diocese Synod Report
k) Mother’s Union Report
f) Safeguarding Report
l) Flower Report

The Vicar thanked all those for their reports presented and assistance during the past year. Only the following reports generated questions or comments:

5. Treasurer’s Report & Accounts for the year ended 31[st] December 2023

The Treasurer made the following 7 points:

6. To appoint Independent Examiners for the Annual Accounts 2024

David Moate was elected.

7. Election of Officers

Helen Howells was elected to the PCC.

Helen Rowswell was elected as Electoral Roll Officer for the coming year.

8. Election of Parish Clerk

Helen Rowswell was elected unopposed for another year and was thanked by the Vicar on behalf of all those present for her outstanding work taking into account it includes cover for the 3 Wells Community.

9. AOB

The Electoral Roll Officer would need to establish a new roll for next year. The Chair thanked Helen Rowswell for her work.

10. Date of next monthly PCC Meeting

28[th] May 2024 at 7pm

11. The Meeting closed at 8.10 with prayers by John Dunn

CHURCH OF ST BARTHOLOMEW COFFINSWELL

MINUTES OF ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

9[TH] MAY 2024

Present: Michael Wilkie (Chair), Michele Berry, Gordon Bower, David Colwill, Sue Bowers, Debbie Blatchford , John Lewis, Sarah Barr (Secretary).

Three Parishioners were present: Jenny Bower, Rob Grainger, Roger Wills

The meeting opened at 7pm with a prayer

  1. The Minutes of the APC held on 23 May 2023 were approved

2. Churchwarden report

Gordon and Michele confirmed that they would stay on until the Merger. It was agreed to seek guidance from the Arch Deacon but Michael thought that as long as maintenance was being monitored then an Assistant Warden would suffice.

The meeting agreed unanimously that Gordon and Michele would remain in post until the merger and there was a vote of thanks to both of them for their sterling service over so many years.

3. Report from Vicar

Michael reconfirmed that as a Chapel of Ease there would be no visible differences to the pattern of services and that the finances would continue to be held and reported separately. He reported that Mervyn was now a resident in Sundial Lodge and it was agreed that gift and photograph of the Church should be presented to him at a suitable time in the future. With help from Michael and Jenny services are being covered and a said Eucharist is always possible. Michael confirmed that Erica Dunn is the Lead for Health and Safety and Safeguarding and it was agreed to adopt the Kingskerswell Safeguarding Policy.

4. Treasurer’s Report

2023 receipts were 68% up due to Parish Giving which is £745 per month/£922 with Gift Aid The Votive had raised £622 in 11 months.

In the absence of Any Other Business the meeting closed with a Prayer at 19:25.

8

(a) VICAR’S REPORT Kingskerswell 2024

The church has made encouraging progress this past year. The monthly pattern of services can still usually be managed by the pastoral team - the vicar, our two lay ministers (Ian and John) and our retired clergy (Ruth). We are still seeking new ways of making our services more inclusive and accessible as we address the challenge of connecting to a much wider section of the local community. I would again like to thank John, Ian, and Ruth for their continued willingness to give so much of themselves to their ministries here.

Our links with the school continue to be very strong. I continue as a foundation governor and offer help with the development of monitoring and developing spirituality in the school. I lead weekly assemblies as well as taking part in other school activities.

Sandra Dunford and Heather Cooper have been very active with their “Open the Book” ministry in the classrooms this year. They are always enthusiastically welcomed and appreciated by the children.

The school’s own services at Christmas, Easter and School Leavers continue to be highlights of the year. They pack out the church and are, by far, the most well attended services of the year. There is still a vacant foundation governor role for anyone interested from the church community.

I would also like to thank Heather for all she does for the worship in our church and the choir’s dedication which continues to be greatly appreciated. As a congregation we are very grateful for all the hard work they put in, especially during the Easter and Christmas seasons. Church wouldn’t be the same without them.

We are also greatly indebted to the Bell Ringers. They raise our church’s presence in the village, not just in calling all to Sunday worship, but also for important family events such as weddings, funerals and important national events. Philip’s whole team are an important part of our church and we are very grateful for their special contribution to our ministry.

The Social Committee is a relatively small but very dedicated and hard-working group that do such a magnificent job of organising all our social events. These include all the traditional regulars such as the Harvest Lunch and all the Christmas season celebrations. As a church we are all grateful for the huge efforts behind the success of the two big annual events, the Craft Fair before Christmas and the Springtime Plant Sale. The Light Lunches with a different guest speaker each time, continue to give extra chances to share meals together.

These events are not just social, they have also raised some important funds for the church. After all their hard work, the Social Committee were in a position to pay for an expensive new circuit-board and new floor-tiles in the church, and a large donation for the new kitchen hob in the Parish Centre kitchen.

The House Group continues to meet fortnightly at the vicarage. It offers an informal and friendly space where all are welcome to share stories, ask questions, study the Bible and pray together. We also have shared some good biscuits and other goodies, both home-made and luxury shop-bought – the aim being that at the end of each evening together we can go home feeling fed bother physically and spiritually.

The most challenging aspect of the church’s life is the continuing crisis with the church’s finances. We are indebted to the dedication of a number of people, especially our treasurer Peter, who have enabled us to make steady progress towards being financially stable.

However, it must be clearly highlighted and recognised that even though we are now some three years after the financial crisis provoked by the Covid epidemic, we still have not reached our most basic target of being able to fully pay our monthly “Share” to the Diocese. To ensure the long-term continuity of our church life here, the wardens and PCC are trying to identify further ways to increase and stabilize our regular monthly income. We will not be able to rely on the charity of the Diocese for very much longer.

We have been able to make good savings in the day-to-day running of the church. The solar panels on the roof of the Parish Centre have greatly reduced the costs of the Parish Centre,

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Coffee Room and Office. The installation of under-pew heaters and new lights in the church have greatly reduced the amount of electricity used. These changes have not just saved us money but have helped towards the longer-term Church of England goal to be carbon-neutral by 2030.

In all the work done on the church a special mention must again be given to Geoff Dunford (and his trusty assistant Trevor!) for his enormous generosity of time and energy in his tireless work and dedication to the church fabric. We are all extremely grateful. None of the progress made would have been achievable without him.

I would also like to express my deepest thanks and appreciation to Sandra and Trevor for their tireless dedication and work as Church Wardens this year.

Yet again they have been behind all that has been achieved this year. I would also like to thank all the members of the PCC for all their dedication and support of our church community. The ongoing life of our church could not happen without them.

We also all owe a huge debt of gratitude for the indispensable work of the Church Office. The hard work and dedication shown by Helen and Mercy is absolutely invaluable as it allows the church's’ ministry and activities to continue and to grow. With all that they do and the people they come into contact with, the work of the office is most certainly an important ministry. Thanks and appreciation is also due to those many people who quietly, and often behind the scenes, do so much of the hard work needed to keep our church running. From the hard work of cleaning and producing beautiful flower arrangements, to keeping the grass cut and the churchyard tidy – we could not get by without them.

Together as a church family may we work together to keep our Church as a living, active expression of God’s love and compassion within the wider community of Kingskerswell.

Coffinswell 2024

We have managed to maintain the rota of services the same pattern of 9am every Sunday morning. Although the congregation has remained modest, it remains a viable and encouraging. This is the year when St Bartholomew’s finally became a Chapel of Ease and the single parish became Kingskerswell with Coffinswell. This change was made after a number of years careful consideration. It’s aim is to simplify the practical running of the church and give St Bartholomew’s the potential to continue on as a quiet, sacred space that offers Christian public worship to Coffinswell and surrounding areas.

Sadly this year also saw the loss of long-serving St Bartholomew’s organist Mervyn Gwinnell. Mervyn played at all kinds of services for over 40 years and even composed some of the music for the liturgy. A talented artist, Mervyn’s designs are still being used for the covers of the “Well, Well, Well” magazine.

I would particularly like to express my sincere thanks to Gordon and Michele for being willing to stay on a little longer as wardens, and for Sue Bower for continuing as treasurer. The appeal to Coffinswell village has greatly eased the financial side of keeping St Bartholomew’s open and it’s ministry alive, as well as the discovery that, due to it’s historic nature, the Church Commissioners are responsible for a great deal of the upkeep of the church fabric. There does still remain the very real challenge of identifying people willing to help with practical side of running the church.

Both Kingskerswell and Coffinswell churches face the challenge of fully engaging with a village community that has largely demonstrated little inclination to attend church with any regularity. As churches we aim not to merely to serve the community as a useful resource, but also to preach the gospel by who we are and what we do.

Revd. Michael Wilkie

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(b) CHURCHWARDEN’S REPORTS (INCLUDING FABRIC REPORT) St Mary’s Church, Kingskerswell

“In co-operation with the Vicar-in-Charge, Churchwardens are responsible for the day to day functioning of the Parish Church. These responsibilities include various aspects of administration, building operation and personnel. Their work is not just the maintenance of the church building but helping the smooth running of the church.” (Taken from Exeter Diocese information).

At the Annual Archdeacon’s Visitation held at All Saints’ Church, Torquay. the Ven. Douglas James Dettmer, Archdeacon of Totnes, we were again reminded of our duties including connecting to our local school and community by way of making the most of our building and church grounds. To this, we continue to hope to be seen as making strides this past year in making the most of our facilities.

Activities include the regular “open book” sessions at our local Primary school. We again included the school in the various services prior to the Easter. The church held the school’s Leavers Service in July at which gifts from the Church were presented. Other services included the Christingle and the Annual Christmas Carol service after which we opened the Parish Hall for refreshments.

The Social Committee have been active in organising regular “after service” lunches to promote community inclusion. In addition, the Church has taken part in external events such as the South West Awake in the early Summer and the Devon Historic Churches Day held on the 14[th] September. There has also been a number of visiting bellringers during the year.

In October, we met with the Teignbridge “Green Spaces” contract Manager, responsible for the “closed” churchyard, to highlight areas needing attention. With volunteers from the congregation in the Autumn we began clearing parts of the far end of the church meadow which it is hoped to create a “wet land” environment once the dense over grown vegetation is further cleared, so this will be an ongoing project.

On 3[rd] April 2024 we had the Quinquennial (5 year) Inspection by LePage Architects, the purpose of the review being to ensure all Health & Safety records are being maintained and identify state of repairs requiring attention. Whilst it accepted, at the time of the inspection, electrical works was ongoing (namely replacement of church lighting and heating to meet our Church commitment to Net Zero carbon usage) the report gave recommendations to the buildings’ fabric. The report lists works of repair in Order of Priority over next five years. Anyone wishing to see a copy of the full 36-page report please contact either of the Churchwardens. With the ongoing works on the church identified we arranged in October an “open” meeting with the Trustees of the “Friends of Kingskerswell Church” if funds could be released to help towards completion of works resulting from Phase 1.

During the year we have been able to replace the old lighting and heaters with new LED lights and the move to “under” pew heating units. Alongside this was new electrical circuit boards and switch panel. Replacement of the radiators and upgrading of the gas boiler and pipework. Towards the end of the year work commenced of making good the pipe trench and the covering with matching tiles.

Cost savings to the church of moving to the more energy efficient lighting and heaters is shown by the following figures:

Prior to 2023 Electricity used in church was 19,800 kwh per year

2023 - 8149 kwh used, compared to 2024 – 7567 kwh used 2023 cost was £2724 without the changes it would have cost £5963 2024 cost was £2119 without the changes it would have cost £5046 In the two years cost saving from £11,027 down to £4,843

We are extremely grateful to Geoff Dunford for the time and effort he has taken in the undertaking of these alterations, works which were carried out under the full supervision of a qualified electrician at each stage and duly signed off by that same electrician.

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In November, water damage to the South Transept roof required a roofing contractor to be employed to make good the external rendering and slates. The cost of £2688 was met by funds from the Social Committee, which we pass on our grateful thanks. A summary of the works carried in church during 2024 is as follows;

A summary of the works carried in church during 2024 is as follows;
11/01/24 Temporary heater installed by vestry/choir
15/01/24 Motor in organ failed, Electrician called
21/01/24 Organ failed to start
06/02/24 Electrician repaired organ
19/02/24 G Dunford had installed half of new heaters
22/02/24 Electrician – south aisle heaters connected
24/02/24 Fixing of heaters to north side
11/03/24 Fixing of heaters to side pews
15/03/24 Completon of works in electric box
29/04/24
21/05/24		 Meetng with Diocese (Head of Building) to discuss and agree cable trunking
G Dunford started work on foor pathway for cables to pews
23/05/24 Organ failed; H Cooper managed to re-start
28/05/24 Cables to pews complete, Electrician connected
21/07/24 - 26/07/24 New LED lights in place
07/08/24 Electrician puts in new light switches
19/08/24 – 20/08/24 Electrician - installaton of new circuit board
21/08/24
G Dunford re-laid missing foor tles over cable ducts in aisles
31/08/24 G Dunford replaced slipped slate over porch roof
13/10/24 First Choir heater installed
23/10/24
29/10/24		 Church toilet out of acton, required replacement of new pipework.
Roofng contractor completes external repairs to South Transept roof
04/11/24 Re-alignment of new gas central heatng radiators
07/11/24 Gas plumber working to 7pm
14/11/24 Gas plumber contnues install of new radiators
27/11/24 Work by gas plumber completed install to radiators and pipework
18/12/24 G Dunford cutng slabs for covering pipe trench
21/12/24 G Dunford completed install of choir heaters
We would like to take the opportunity in this report to express our thanks to everyone for all
their tme and support to help us towards the running of our church .. it is very much
appreciated.

Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal – Kingskerswell Churchwardens

ST Bartholomew’s Church (now Chapel of Ease) Coffinswell.

The Churchwardens can report that having completed our Annual Audit of the contents, valuables and fabrics, we are satisfied that everything is in good order. A new purchase of a microwave for the Vestry, has been made to replace the old heating oven.

St Bartholomew’s is now officially a chapel of ease, the dissolution from the status of Parish church having been completed in August 2024. As a PCC we are now amalgamated with the Kingskerswell PCC and have been attending joint PCC meetings. All our services at St Bartholomew’s continue as before, and all our finances are ring fenced. The Parish Share is also calculated separately from that of Kingskerswell. We hope to pay in full, the Coffinswell portion (£8640) of the joint Coffinswell/ Kingskerswell Parish Share. We are now in a more satisfactory financial position due to the Parish Giving Scheme and to the contactless giving in the church, which continue to work well, with also, the significant and generous monthly donations made with the votive candle holder situated by the Font. We are extremely grateful for these contributions and hope that there will be more parishioners joining the Parish Giving Scheme. The smallest donations in the church help towards the ever present need of maintenance of our beautiful building.

The work required to complete the 37 recommendations of the 2024 Quinquennial, has started with the main requirement of repairs to the roof which have now been completed. We are grateful to the Church

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Commissioners who have contributed significantly to the cost of the roof repairs in the Chancel area, our funds contributing £1860. We now have to work through the other recommendations in order of priority.

A significant cost (£900) to our funds was incurred in the felling of the Oak tree in the churchyard, which was fatally damaged in one of our many recent gales. We still have a pile of logs from the felling, which are available for a contribution to the church fabric fund.

Since our last report, our organist, Mervyn, who had retired last year due to ill health, has sadly died. A plaque in remembrance of his great service to the church has been affixed to the organ. Jenny Bower continues to play the organ regularly for us as does Michael Roberts, to whom and for which we are so appreciative in the enhancement of our weekly services.

Our congregation remains small although it fluctuates. We so value the valiant small group of volunteers, who continue to clean, and to decorate the church beautifully with graceful and delicate displays, so appropriate to our simple, small 12[th] century church.

We are always grateful to Helen and Mercy in the office for their valued support.

For our regular services, we are grateful to our Parish priest, Michael Wilkie, also to the Reverend Canon Ruth Oates, John Dunn and Ian Firth, who volunteer their time when possible. Michèle Berry and Gordon Bower, Churchwardens.

(c) HEALTH AND SAFETY REPORT

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is responsible and accountable for the Health and Safety for St.Mary’s Church Kingskerswell. We have a H&S strategy which is underpinned with a regularly reviewed H&S Policy with it being included in monthly PCC meetings for any issues arising. We continue not having a duly elected Health & Safety Advisor, whilst the Vicar and Churchwardens are responsible for the day-to-day management and review of H&S and will continue to monitor and Health & Safety related matters along with the PCC. Irrespective of any delegation, the PCC remains accountable for Health and Safety. Emergency and First Aid procedures are documented and equipment subject to regular checks during the year. All service records of equipment (PAT tests) checks made during the year are available for inspection in the Parish Office together with all Public Liability insurance policies. Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal - Churchwardens

(d) SAFEGUARDING REPORT

In May 2024 parishes within Exeter Diocese participated in an independent external safeguarding audit. The purpose of the audit was to ensure dioceses and cathedrals are doing all they can to create environments where everyone feels safe, valued and respected and was completed nationally. Following publication of the Makin report in November 2024 the Church of England lead bishop for safeguarding described the requirements for a Safer Church.

On Sunday 17 November we again supported Safeguarding Sunday this is a yearly event held every November to raise awareness of safeguarding.

The safeguarding dashboard has been updated to a safeguarding hub and includes a detailed action plan to ensure we all meet our safeguarding responsibilities. This includes policies, raising awareness, training, safer recruitment, risk assessments and appropriate DBS checks for those involved in work with vulnerable adults and children.

The diocese has a very supportive Safeguarding team and our PCC’s are committed, through our church community, to the support, nurture and safeguarding of all, especially the young and vulnerable and will

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Erica Dunn Parish Safeguarding Representative

continue the focus on updating the safeguarding hub, further training and DBS checks over the next 12 months.

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(e) CHURCHYARD REPORT

For the year 2024 the Churchyard Maintenance Account income was £2,489.96 and the expenditure was £3,116.36 which gave an overall loss for the year of £586.40.

The income from donations for 2024 amounted to £2330 and our sincere thanks go to all of you who regularly and generously donate to the churchyard fund. Without these donations, we would really struggle to maintain a healthy credit balance. The Service for All Soul’s Day raised £159.95. The expenditure for 2024 amounted to £3,116.36. Unfortunately, a dead sycamore tree had to be removed and this cost £1080. The remaining expenditure included the cost of lawn mowing, hedge trimming, fuel for the mower, the annual charge for the green recycling bin and for generally keeping the churchyards tidy. A self-set holly tree was removed from the old churchyard and this was carried out by Teignbridge District Council at no cost.

In March 2024 it was decided to start using the Churchyard Extension for Cremation plots. This was due to the fact that in the Old Churchyard it was becoming very wet underfoot due to the grass not thriving under the trees and the New Churchyard Cremation Plot area was becoming rather full. The low cost of maintenance in the New Churchyard and Churchyard Extension is due to Geoffrey Dunford. Mike Howard maintains the Old Churchyard and has always looked after the Memorial Garden which is situated between the churchyard and the stream. As always my sincere thanks go to Geoffrey and Mike for giving freely of their time to keep the churchyards looking neat and tidy. As always the sole purpose of a Churchyard Maintenance Fund is to provide a tidy and well-cared for Churchyard where people are able to come and sit peacefully in beautiful surroundings to reflect their memories of those they have loved and lost.

If anyone would like more information regarding the running of the churchyard or wish to make a contribution towards its upkeep, either by cash, cheque or Banker’s Order please contact the Parish Church Office (01803) 873006 for further details.

Wendy Hinchcliffe, Churchyard Treasurer

(f) TOWER CAPTAIN’S REPORT

We rang for all the main services at both Kingskerswell and Coffinswell, the only exception being one of the Christmas carol services as both were at the same time. Practices were normally at Kingskerswell, but two were at Coffinswell, We rang for 4 weddings at Kingskerswell and 5 funerals. This included Mervyn Gwinnell, organist at Coffinswell, Mike Davies, who was a keen supporter of the ringers, and Barbara Elliot. The highest attendance at practices was 16 on 3 occasions. Progress is being made with method ringing, but so often we are unable to do more than plain hunting. James, Mia and Alesha can plain hunt, with Alesha doing particularly well. We rang in the New Year at Kingskerswell as usual, and gathered at Philip and Mo’s house beforehand.

Sue Hinds has been unable to return on a regular basis, but we have regularly kept in touch during the year. Malcolm continues to come to practices, and at the beginning of the year was joined by Kate Marsh, also from Berry Pomeroy, and she is progressing well. Steve and Sue Robinson very enthusiastically started to learn in June, but had to give up after a month when Sue found that ringing was affecting her health. They would love to return, but that would seem to be unlikely at the moment.

6[th] of June was the 80[th] anniversary of D Day and we rang out for peace at Kingskerswell at 6.30pm as part of the national commemoration. We had our half day outing and annual dinner on 23[rd] March. We rang at Buckland in the Moor, Holne and Kingsteignton. Our dinner was at the Ten Tors in Kingsteignton. This year we were able to hire the Kingscare minibus for our annual outing on 14[th] September. We had a very successful day going to Somerset, and ringing at Langford Budville, Nynehead, Hillfarrance, Bishop’s Hull and West Buckland.

We had another tower open day in September as part of the Devon Historic Churches Day. We demonstrated ringing and took people to the top of the tower. All had the opportunity to have a go, but we were unsuccessful in recruiting any ringers. We also welcomed the Heart of the West Oddfellows at Kingskerswell in November and several people had a go at ringing and ascended to the top of the tower.

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We had 5 visiting bands (2 were at Coffinswell) and we hosted a Mid Devon Branch ‘Meet the Branch Day’ in April at Kingskerswell and Coffinswell. 4 peals and 2 quarter peals were rung at Kingskerswell. The peal in April was rung to celebrate Mo and Pauline’s 80[th] birthdays and also Philip’s birthday, all on the same day.

I thank everyone for their support during the year and also to Mike Mears for his continued support at Coffinswell.

Although we have 21 members on our books, and generally have enough for our service ringing and practices at the moment, I am very aware that we have an aging band (13 of us are over 70, including 4 over 80), and it is so difficult to recruit new ringers. It can take a considerable time for learners to become proficient ringers and I am concerned that unless we can attract new people soon, there is an increasing danger that our band will become very depleted. With this in mind, I have started to publicise the need for new ringers in the magazine, the weekly sheet, and on Facebook, but so far, no response.

Philip Stevens, Tower Captain

(g) CHOIR REPORT

We are opening this years report by paying tribute to our much beloved Doreen (Perryman) who passed away on the 12[th] of June last year. She is missed very much by the choir and congregation. Doreen was a loyal and caring member of St. Mary's church and played a very active role in all church activities during her life.

It is with much gratitude to our inspirational organist, Heather, that we have maintained a full and enjoyable program of music for all aspects of worship. We also would like to thank Sandra for her excellent choice of hymns for our services.

The ‘Big Sing’ in January proved to be very popular and enjoyed by all who participated. We continue to maintain a strong spiritual fellowship within our choir and find our weekly practice on Thursday evening to be very uplifting. Unfortunately, due to long-term health problems, Wendy Wilson has had to step down from the choir. We wish her well and thank her for a contribution to me to our services.

We would like to thank reverent, Michael, the lay readers church wardens and congregation for their continuing support.

We are looking forward to the coming year with much enthusiasm under Heathers excellent direction and leadership.

Helen Howells, Choir Representative

(h) DEANERY REPORT

In the last 12 months there have been three deanery meetings which were held in June, October and February in Churches across the deanery including here at St Marys Kingskerswell. The meetings are chaired by the Rural Dean Andrew Down and begin with a presentation. The presentations included;

The presentations encouraged discussion and support with ideas for Church growth and increased giving. Brigit offered to attend Church services/PCC meetings to support discussion and understanding around generosity and giving. I have suggested to the PCC this is an offer we should accept.

Finance reports are presented, in October the report indicated that our Deanery in the Totnes Archdeaconry had paid 84% of the common fund to date. There was no finance report presented in February.

A report from the February General Synod meeting was provided. Safeguarding, Church governance and clergy discipline were discussed at synod. There was agreement to move to an independent safeguarding scrutiny body.

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Limited time was given to moving forward with living in love and faith proposals. The next deanery meeting will be held on 10 June 2025. Erica Dunn Deanery Representative

(i) MOTHERS’ UNION REPORT

The few members of the Mothers Union continue to meet on the second Monday of each month throughout the year the Coffee Room, Parish Centre at 2:00 PM. We held our AGM in January enjoyed a chat discussing an outline of meetings for the following year. February was taken up with the many updates from Mary Sumner House head office in London, and ended with tea and biscuits and knitting patterns for MU projects for babies.

We had two birthday parties, one in April and one in October, and in July and August we were invited to the home and garden of Liz who lives in Ogwell, for afternoon tea. We prayed for Ursula, our former Hospitality Correspondent, who was in hospital and unable to be present. Our speakers included Reverend Michael Wilke who described the early years of his ministry in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He showed us interesting slides of his place of worship, the Anglican Cathedral dedicated to St John the Baptist, and the area where he lived. He ministered there for 15 years before coming to Kingskerswell in 2020. Our member Margaret gave us a talk about her journey to becoming a vet’s wife, and in September James, another member, continued his life story after he left the Royal Navy to becoming a Rank Xerox photocopier engineer and expert. In November we had a talk by Audrey’s daughter Deborah as she described her 10 days visit to Nigeria, meeting the local people and visiting the Amucha Maternity Hospital in the dioceses of Orla. Deborah had some very interesting slides and we enjoyed her talk very much. We are very grateful to all our speakers and hosts and we thank them very much for their time and talks.

At Christmas we went once again to the Livermead House Hotel, Torquay, for our Christmas lunch together with members of the church congregation, and in all 18 sat down to lunch. This had been arranged by Jean, but because of her illness, sadly she was unable to join us. The Mothers Union is a worldwide organisation which raises funds to help families and communities in both Britain and across the world, especially in Africa where the lives of women and girls in particular are improved by education with help from the Mother’s Union. If you would like to know what work the MU does at home and overseas, please come along to a meeting for a chat, tea or coffee, cake or biscuits, and fellowship. All are welcome, including gentlemen and those who are not mothers. Come and discover what this huge worldwide charity does in 84 countries across the world. For more information, please contact me on 01803 404779 or email gandsdunford@outlook.com

Sandra Dunford, Branch Leader

(j) FLOWER REPORT

Flowers were provided and arranged in the Parish Church throughout 2024, apart from during Lent, greenery was used during advent.

Additional arrangements were provided for the major religious festivals i.e. Christmas and Easter. Several members of the regular congregation made donations for flowers dedicated to the memories of loved ones.

In April, the Church Social Committee elected to support the flower fund by donating 25% of the profit for their events which has proven to be invaluable and without which I would be unable to provide flora decorations throughout the year in our beautiful 13[th] century (almost!) church.

Thank you Social Committee!

Jenny Benney, Church Florist

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(l) SOCIAL COMMITTEE REPORT

It is my pleasure to report on the activities of the Social Committee for 2024. We continued to meet in the Parish Rooms, although during the year the meeting time was changed to 1700. We meet monthly and this year we did not have a break.

Rev. Michael Wilkie continued to chair the meeting, the Treasurer is Helen Rowsell to whom monies collected are paid and Peter Thomson includes Social Committee finances in his Annual Report. There is no need for a secretary as Helen Rowsell deals with correspondence. Patricia Rodriguez continues to take and distribute notes of the meetings and distribute copies of the agenda at each meeting.

During the year Jackie Mellor joined the Social Committee and our churchwardens, Sandra Dunford and Trevor Heal continued to attend meeting. After the outdoor Carol Service in 2023 a donation was made to the Scouts for the loan of their Gazebo. The Social Committee finances were seen to be in a healthy state and at our March meeting it was agreed to give 25% of the profits from the events organised by the Social Committee to the Flower Fund. This has continued to the present time. We have also contributed funds to the work carried out in the Church, for both the Circuit Board and repairs to the South Transept Roof. One of our Committee members, Sylvia Wightman, made 11 lovely tablecloths for use at the different meals. We expressed our thanks to Sylvia. Committee members have been involved in organising and also providing catering/refreshments for the following events:

Easter services

Plant Sale 6[th] April 2024 Light Lunch 26[th] April 2024 Harvest Lunch 29th September 2024 Parish Light Lunch 20[th] October 2024 2[nd] November 2024 Craft Fair Christmas Lunch 15[th] December 2024 Inside Carol Concert 22[nd] December 2024 Additionally in January 2024 we began hosting and arranging a light lunch after church on a Sunday, every two months, with a break during the summer months. There is also a speaker on each of these occasions. Each member of the committee is valued for their individuality and contribution to the success of the events in which we have either helped or organised. We would welcome new members to the Social Committee, currently we meet on the 1[st] Tuesday of each month at 1700 (5pm) in the coffee rooms. We would like to thank all those who have supported us over the past year, including church members, volunteers and the wider community. We look forward to a successful 2025. Patricia Rodriguez, Committee member.

Treasurer’s Reports on separate attachment

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