Melksham Church Annual Report 2025 melksham.church
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Contents PCC Secretsry Rectors Introduction Churchwarden's Report Electoral Roll Treasurerfs Report St Barnabas st Michael's Fabric Safeguarding 10 12 13 Priority l- Evangelism 15 16 17 18 Alpha Christmas Services The Messenger Cricket Priority 2 - Discipleship 20 21 22 24 SundayTeaching Home Groups Serving Teams Women's Ministry Eco Church Priority 3 - Worship 26 27 28 29 Music at St Michael's New Wine Verger Team Building To Serve Priority 4 - Pastoral Care 31 Pastoral Team Care Home Visits Anna Chaplaincy Coffee &Conversation Crafty Cafe 32 Priority 5 - Next Generation 34 35 36 37 Sunday Club Youth Forest & Sandridge The Manor 39 40 Bradford Deanery Independent Examiner's Report
The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Melksham, Salisbury Annual Report & Financial Ststements for year ended 31st December 2024 Charlty number 1138038 Prlnclple Addre. The Rectory, Canon Sq, Melksham, SN12 6LX Structure, Governance and Management The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representstion Rules 2006) and a registered charity which has the responslbility of worklng with the incumbent in promoting in the community the whole mission of the Church of England. pastoral, evangelistic and social. The PCC also has the rnaintenance responsibilities for the fabric of our three churches and thelr respective church room& When planning our activities for the year. the Rector and PCC have considered the guidance of the Charity Commission on public benefit and. In particular, the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. The church's activities are designed to further our vlsion through our five priorlties of evangelism, discipleship, pastoral care, worship. and reaching the next generation. Members of the PCC are each Trustees of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Melksham Charity (1138038). The clergy are appointed by the Bishop of Salisbury. All other elections take place at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, where the members vote for thelr representatives, Churchwardens, Secretsry, Treasurer and representstlves to serve on Bradford Deanery Syno Those who served on the PCC in 2024 were: Rev Charles Thomson Chair Peter Maslen Julian Parr Treasurer until May 24 Until May 24 Until May 24 Until May '24 Until May 24 Treasurer from May 24 From May 24 From May 24 Churchwarden Theo Bossom Gwen Mclean Churchwarden Rev Francis Moloney Team Vicar Phlllp Mcmullen Secretary (EO) Stsnford Cole Assistant Warden Richard Hucknall Stephen Fivash Timothy Just Davld Flower Christof Masheder Hannah Thomson Matthew Verrell Barbara Hewltt Josephine Paterson Karen Scull Hongxia Shl Jennifer Allen Jeremy Hartley Deanery Synod Reps: Deborah Couzens Gillian Blackham From May 24
The PCC has met five times since the APCM held in May 2024, in May, July and November 2024, and in January and April 2025. The PCC has reviewed the church s overall finances on a regular basis and received reports from the Local Church Commlttees. The Treasurerfs formal accounts were received and agreed at the APCM in May. 2024. The major risks to which the PCC is exposed have been assessed and appropriate policies and procedures have been put in place to mitigate exposure to those risks. The PCC has sought to undenNrite some of these risks through a policy with Ecclesiastical Insurance Ltd. It is the policy of the PCC that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be malntalned at a 5evel equivalent to between three- and six-month's expenditure. The Council Members consider that reserves at this level will ensure thaL in the event of a signrficant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the council's current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. In addition to the work of the PCC, a large number of volUntrS contribute their time, skills, and energy to the lrfe of the church. Volunteers support a wide range of activities. including children's and youth work, niusic and worship. hospitslity, verging. pastoral visiting, administration, church maintenance, and community outreach. Their generous and faithful service is vital to the church's mission, and we are deeply grateful for all that they do. The PCC also has a designated Safeguarding Officer who issues regular reports and maintains updated policies to that effect. Reporting serious safeguarding incidents is now the responsibility of the Diocesan Secretary supported by the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser (DSAI. The Secretary continues to work closely with both the Diocese and the Charity Commission on an ongoing basis. Phlllp Mcmullen PCC Secretary
Rector's Introduction - Amazing Grace Reading the contributions to this years Annual Report is both humbling and inspirin¥, each section representing hours and hours of hard work and the collectlve passion of so many dlfferent people, all pulling togetherto'make Jesus Known. in Melksham. Last yearfs theme was a call to mobilise every member of the church to serve, slnce'the harvest is plentiful. but the workers are few. (Matthew 9.38). Well what an extraordinary response there has been to that calll The pages below detsil new ministries started, new teams launched. new people drawn into serving in new ways so I want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who has served so wholeheartedly over the past 12 months. However. Its all too easy for church to become all about what we do, rather than who we are. For our relationship with God to be performance-based. To focus so much on what we're doing that we forget what Jesus has already done. To forget grace. In the story of the Prodigal Son, the older brother complained to the Father "all these years I've been slaving for you." Those who are committed to serying in church mlght flnd St all too easy to sympathlsel But he had become so caught up in his work that he had forgotten hls very identrty. After John Wesley's heart was 'strangely warmed., he said that It wasn't the moment of his conversion - he had always been a Christian. However in that moment that he went from being a servant of God to a son of God. That didn't mean he was any less comrnitted to serving! But his motivation for ministry and mission was totally transformed by God s Amazing Grace. So this year, my prayer is that our church would be underpinned and infused with the gra of God. that we take a year to remind ourselves that Jesus. invitstion is "come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I wlll refresh you"_ not the other way aroundl Charfle Thomson Team Rector
Team Churchwardens Your "Team" Churchwardens are pleased to report to the 2025 APCM. 202412025 has been busy year, Charlie, our Team Rector and Francis our Team Vicar have been working together and ensuring our congregations flourish and grow. To this end, they have been masterminding Alpha courses re-introducing House Groups and mass baptismslconfirmationsl Well done, especially for the very meaningful full immersion baptisms. An ongoing highlight Is our 'Building to Serve" inltiative relating to No 11 Canon Square for use as a Church Centre and phase11 which will be the reordering of St Michaels Church building. After a change of builders late in 2024, and contract signing around 30th January our chosen main contractor. Prior & Co (a Melksham based company) have been working continuously. Read elsewhere for more details. but we eagerly await completion and successful renting out of the two flats. Our children's work at St Ms has flourished {heSped by the moving to two Sunday morning services from January 2024>. We have an increasing average 30 to 35 or so each week which is fantsstic so we eagerly await being able to return into using Noll again. We are two years on with the progress of closure of St Andrews Church. The last Sunday Service was Easter Sunday 2023 and thereafter only occasional weddings and funerals have been held. Currently, under the Mission and Pastoral Measure 20ll, the Diocesan Committee are polsed, awaiting final comments by 15th May 2025, to recommend to the Blshop that St Andrews will be "closed for regular worship". After this has occurred. the Church will be vested wlth The Diocesan Board of Finance for care and maintenance pending a decision on its future. Any such declsion will be subject of a second scheme, a "pastoral church buildings disposal scheme" which will be prepared and published by the Church Commissioners. Meanwhile. as some of you will know, St Andrews churchyard can not currently be closed and we as a parish are responsible for its ongoing maintenance. st Barnabas continues to be a thriving , friendly fellowship. We have a regular pattern of services with Communlon led by either Francis or Charlie once a month. A very successful Apha course took place with three members of our congregation being confirmed by Bishop Andrew recently. We have paid our share in full and finances remaining healthy. This has been helped by Corsham Cricket club hiring the church field during the summer season and Table Tennls teams hiring the School Room during the wlnter season. I would like to thank Stsnford Cole for all the hard work (very often unseen) for keeping the church in good order.
Gwen: .1 would like to thank Petsr for all his work, advice and guidance he brings to his role as Team warden. His knowledge of St Michaels past and present has been invaluable to the development of 11 Canon Square into a Church Centre. Agaln most of Peters work goes unseen but is greatlyappreciated.. Peter. 'Gwen is standing down as a Team Warden thls time around, so I would like to thank her for all her hard work overseveralyears. Petermaslen & Gwen Mclean Churchwardens Electoral Roll In accordance with the Synodical Government Measure 1969 we are requlred to prepare a completely new Electoral Roll every 6 years and 2025 was a sixth year. We were requlred to destroy the existing roll and to seek every church member to complete an entirely new form for inclusion. This has been completed and the Parish Electoral Roll now stands at 148. Officlal Certificates. with the new roll figure will be forwarded to the Deanery and Diocesan Secretaries after the Parish Roll has been formally adopted at the APCM. N•tty Hucknall ParlshAdmlnlstrator Average St Mlchael's Sunday Attendance (excluding festlvalslbaptisms) Under 16s Adults 150 100 50 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Treasurer's report 2024 2023 2022 Receipts £394,916 £275,681 £161,550 Payments Net receiptsl payments Cash at year end £228,901 £234.395 £145,077 £166,015 £41,286 £16,473 £326,733 £160,718 £119,432 See Appendix for detailed financial report In-year activity saw the charity generate a net surplus of £ 169,927 of income over expenditure. The charities total funds as of 31 December 2024 were £866,02112023: £696,094), which were split between funds as follows: Unrestricted: £56,323, Restrlcted: £809.698. Thanks to many church members raising their regular giving over the year, and to some new regular givers, we were pleased to be able to pay our Dlocesan Share of £86k for 2024, and all of the necessary expenditure of running the churches. 2024 accounts show a small excess £444 of income over expenditure in general funds. Praise to the Lord as it says in Philippians 4:19 'my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of hls glory in Christ Jesus.. On Building To Serve project, we have managed to raise over £200k in 2024 which enabled the renovation work at ll Canon Square. A huge thank to all who have worked tirelessly in the past two years. The other slgnrficant financial activity was the Bell project. Funds have been raised by the bell ringers and associated grant making bodies and it is hoped that the work will be completed by the end of May. Hopefully we will have our new bells finished before the lOOth Anniversary of First Peal on the 1924 Bells. which was on June the 9th 1925, and the ringers hope to attempt a peal on thatanniversary. A prevailing sense of growth and renewal is felt across the parish as we bring the word of God and the love of Jesus Christ to an ever larger part of the community. Susan Shl Treasurer
St Barnabas We continue to thrive at St Barnabas, wlth a small but happy and welcoming fellowship. Sadly one of our much loved members died last month and will be sadly missed by all. We have welcomed five new members to our congregation who are now attending regularly. Two of these have recently completed an Alpha Course at St Barnabas, ably led by Francis. Ruth Fivash and Barry ScarletL It was an amazing and Spirit filled course resulting in three members of our congregation being confirmed 2nd in one case belng baptised - with full immersion. Thankfully the water was warml It was so encouraging for all of us to see our friends develop and grow in faith. We hope that this trend will continue next year. We have maintained the regime of a service every Sunday. The pattem is Cafe Church on the first Sunday, Second Sunday Communion led by either Charlie or Francis: Morning Worship on the thlrd and fourth Sundays led by Davld Flower and Sara Bank& Our thanks go to all of them for their encouragement and teaching. This year they will be joined by Gillian Blackham. Celia Shill and Ant Rose. As you can see, we have a lot to offer- a variety of teaching, prayer, hospitality and fellowship. Please come and join us and see for yourself! Thanks must also go to Jocelyn Scarlett, Sue Phillips and Mark Cheesman for their music, and to David and Marilyn Flower who continue to host 'T@stB's' on the first Thursday of every month. It is open to all and is a time for cake, a cup of tea. chats and fun - we even have dogs attending {wlth their ownersl). Special thanks must go to Stanford Cole who has been instrumental in organising the Church's new sign (situated outward looking in the lay by), repairs to the Church roof, the Ceiling in the Nave. repairs to the WC roots and decorating the WC'S, Kitchen, Vestry and the lower part of the Nave walls. If a job needs doing, Stanford's your manl We must also thank lan McLean for keeping the Church grounds in pristine condition, whlch visitors frequently comment on, and Ruth Cole for her work with the Church flowers. St Bamabas VE Day lebratIonS - May 25 10
It is a pleasure to note that we have paid our Parish Share in full and have funded all the jobs that needed doing in 2024. The Quinquennlal took place In the mlddle of 2024: there were no major Issues or surprises and the recommendations have been discussed by the LCC and will take place in priority order. Thanks must go to our Treasurer, Dale Har8er, for keeping our books and funds in first class order. We are continually trying to engage with the local community. We now have a banner 'Making Jesus Known in Beanacre. on the lay by wall. Thanks to David Flower for arranglng this. Corsham Crlcket Club are again uslng the cricket field each week in the cricket season. We have five tsble tennis teams using the Schoolroom throughout their winter season. Mark and Alison Cheesman have also organised Boules games on the court on Wednesday afternoons during the wamier weather- hopefully more people will join us this year. Sara Banks continues to organise a Beanacre netball team who play at the Oak School, more ladies would be very welcome! Finally. we held a VE Day extravaganza on Thursday 8th May which included a meal based on 1945 menus (not just Spam, honestll a qui4 sing song. entertainment and village memories. We have had a very encouraglng and successful year and hope for more of the same next year. Gwen McLean Churchwarden 11
St Michael's Fabric Churchyard The Churchyard continues to be maintained by Town Council. We recently started a "Facilities Team" co-ordinated via a WhatsApp group. Over the year we have met on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings tackling things that the council don't do such as clearing brambles and undergrowth, pruning some tree saplings. Recently, we have been tackling the area inside the churchyard wall by the Canon Square gates. Anyone please feel free to.have a go". Bulldlngs Our Architect, George Chedburn continues to oversee maintenance on our Church buildlng. We are fortunate that the building has not required much maintenance although we await a quotation for a full electrical check and certlficate whlch is overduel Our heating has been working well over the winter, but with only the nave radiators connected because of old blocked pipes etc, we are Investigatlng enhancing the heating in line with the reordering plans. Tower Clock and Bells Our tower clock face has been restored over the winter and we await Simon Gilcrist's restoration of the internal mechanism. We hope eventually to return the clock to striking the daytime hours on one of the bells. but that will need some additional funds to be raised. The bellringers project. "Augmentation of St Michaels bells from 8 to 10 bells", can now report that two new bells complete with King Charles cipher cast on them have now been cast and instsllation can be carried out later this year. Reorderfng Our "Building to Serve" funding has now almost fully covered the renovation of No 11 Canon Square and further funds will be directed towards the reordering of St Michaels church bullding. Patrick Wintour has stepped up to chair the group who are pushing forwards towards the next step (after heating issues are planned) which Is Faculty applicatlon. It's been over a year since the plans were displayed and comments received, but No 11 has taken first place In the queuel Petermaslen Churchwarden Keep up to date wlth progress at melksham.church/build 12
Safeguarding This has been an excitlng year in terms of church life and growth. With the amazing growth of both congregatlons, 9 O'clock and 10.30 and the number of young families with young children, the need for Youth Team helpers and Children's Team helpers has increased. Safeguarding is always at the heart of everything we do in tenns of ensuring we remain a Safer Church. So all new members of the team have successfully applied for and received their DBS certlflcates most have completed the mandatory We have continued worklng through the Salisbury Diocese Safeguarding Dashboard system. This enables churches to work through the three levels of Safeguarding requirements. We have successfully completed level one and have almost completed level two. Tempus fugit'_ renewing the clock face in Dec 24 An action plan for the completlon of level two and starting level three is being devised and will be presented to the PCC for discussion at the next PCC meeting. All Safeguarding Policies for A Safer Church. Domestic Abuse and Safer Recruitment have been reviewed and adopted this year.. Gwèn McLean Parlsh Safeguardlng Rep If you would like to raise any safeguarding concernsi please contact safeguarding@melksham.church, or safeguarding@salisbury.anglican.org
l- Evangelism Alpha This year for the first time we hosted two Alpha courses kicking off simultaneously in the last week of January - Tuesday Evening Alpha at the Kings Arms, and Wednesday Moming Alpha at St Bamabas - giving the opportunlty to explore faith for those who are working during the day as well as those who prefer not to come out in the evenings. There's something powerful about coming together as a group. taking steps of faith and learning to pray and worship in community. The course is 10 weeks and open to everyone regardless of where you are on your joumey of faith - no question is off limits! Each week began with a cuppa and a slice of cake (thank you to our wonderful bakersl), before watching a thought provoking film and then getting into our groups to ask such questions as 'why did Jesus die., 'how can I have faith,, and 'how does God guide us.. There was a real sense of buzz and excitement as friendship and community formed, with two daytlme groups and two evening groups, making a total of 35 in attendance across both courses. We all came together for an Away Day up at the Griffin gathering space on Bowden Hill, which was a great time of fellowship and encountering the Holy Spirit together. Some of the group decided to do the course as preparation for baptism or confirmation, while others felt prompted to formally mark their commFtment as the course progressed - in the end there were 8 guests who got baptised or confirmed in April - God is goodl Charlle Thomson Alpha
Christmas Services There was record attendance across Christmas seNices in 2024 with two 'sold out, Nativity services, over 150 at Midnight Mass, and standing room only at Nine Lessons and Carolsl We're so conscious that Christmas is often the one time of the year when people might come to church, so huge thanks to everyone who helped out servlng copious quantities of mince pies and mulled wine, hauling around straw bales and shepherding farm anlmalsl Special thanks In particular to Charlie Adams and all who sung in the scratch choir for leading such beautiful music at the carol service. Charme Thomson 2021 2022 2023 2024 500 400 300 200 100 Carols by Candlelight Nativity Midnight Mass Christmas day 16
The Messenger JENGE4 INES The Spring 2025 issue will be the last Messenger in its present format It wlll also sadly end my time as editor of the magazine. As editor I would particularly Ilke to thank both Ed Saunders and Rebecca Trueman. They have been Important contrlbutors In the production of the Messenger. Thank you also to a loyal group who have been regular supporters undertaking the many tasks required to complete the cycle of the Messenger. If anyone would like to offer to contribute to the future of the Messenger, please email Charlie. Above is the plcture of the Messenger produced in 2012 in the old format. The cover illustrated by the then Rector, Rev Frank Fisher. It marked the beginning of my time as editor. Edltor TOTAL OVERS I TO WIN Cricket lastsummer 17
Cricket What a great year it's been for our Church Crlcket Teaml As we reflect on the season, it's impossible not to see the hand of God at work In every match, every practice, and every moment of fellowship. We give thanks for the chance to come together and enjoy a sport that's as much about character as it is about cricketing skills. Whether on the field or off, God's love has been evident in every match. We've had moments where we found strength in our faith-especially when the ball seems to head straight for our shins rather than the bat. We've seen players supporting one another, praying before games, and remembering to thank God for the wins land for the moments when ourtrousers miraculously stay up duringa dive to catch the ball). We have so much to be thankful for this season. Our players have grown, not just as cricketers, but as teammates and friends. But what stsnds out the most is the sense of community we've built. From the hlghs of thrilling victories to the lows of °next time, we'll definitely win thls,". We've shared prayer, laughter, and the occasional pint (who knew crlcket could bring out that much passionl, but through It all, we've grown together in faith and friendshlp. As we look ahead to the next season, we do so with hope. excitement, and a little bit of optimism aix)ut the weather (please, no more rainouts!). We trust that God will continue to guide us whether it's with an unexpected burst of energy during the last over, or simply the strength to laugh when things don't go as planned. Our goal is to continue growing as a team, developing our skills, and using our platform to demonstrate what it means to play with heart. passion. and humility. Jonny Trueman Captsln 2024 Results 2025 Flxtures May 19th- friendly (good time had by allll June 16th- vs Corsham CC select Xl (LOST) July 10th- vs Emmanuel Chippenham (WON) July 21st - vs St James Trowbridge (WON) Aug 18th - vs Captain's Xl (recollections vary) Sep 8th- vs Corsham Baptist Church (rained off!) May 25th- vs Corsham Baptist Church Jun 15th- vs St James Church, Trowbridge Jun 22nd- vs St Nic's. Bristol Jul 6th- Family & Friendsfriendly Jul 20th- vs Corsham Cricket Club 18
2- Discipleship Sunday Teaching We believe that °the Word of God is living and active" (Hebrews 4.12) - that the Bible isn't just a dusty collection of interesting historical anecdotes, but the pr5mary way that God speaks to us todayl So every Sunday we make a priority of opening the Bible together, expectsnt that we'll hear the authoritative voice of the Holy Splrit to challenge, encourage, inspire and strengthen us as we live for Jesus. This year whilst we've had some teaching series that have addressed particular subjects - a series on the Creed helped Irelestablish the building blocks of our faith - most Sunday preaching has aimed to focus on a specific Biblical book. We spent 8 weeks working through the life of David in I & 2 Samuel; 9 weeks listening to various 3-word sayings of Jesus in Matthew, Advent digging into the messianic prophecies of l$alth' and Lent learning to pray Ilke the early church in the book of Acts. Some of the Home Groups have followed along midweek to discuss and apply them to daily life. It's also been great to welcome a number of inspiring guest speakers - Major Richard Gordon spoke movingly on Remembrance Sunday, apologist Andy Moore got us thinking about the future, and Simon Guillebaud brought some amazlng testimonles of his experience as a missionary in Burundi. Let's pray in the year to come that we d have open Bibles and open hearts as we're shaped by God's living and active wordl Ch8rlle Thomson 20
Home Groups Last autumn, Jane and I began leading a new home group. meeting at the home of Tim and Vicky Just We invited people who were not currently in a home group, but who had indicated that they'd like to be. We've always found it vital to belong to a small informal gathering of church members. since it's not possible to forge close links with everyone at church. Over the years we've seen people built up in the faith through the support of a more Intimate group, and it's exciting to belong to one once again. We meet one evening each week, spendlng some time in giving thanks to God for various things, helped by listening to some worship music. We then study the Bible together. So far we've looked at the Names of Jesus and the Psalms. breaking off from the latter to do the St Michael's Lent study. The evening is usually rounded off with bringing any needs we may have or know of to the Lord in prayer. All this is In the context of coffee, cake and general friendly chat. 'Home group is great. There's no pressure. We learn in a relaxed way from each other., 'We may not have it all together but together we have it all At present we have ll members, not counting Bentley the dogl We understand that people can't always make it to the group. Nevertheless. we're growing in our support of each other. sharing our needs and joys lincluding durlng the week through a WhatsApp group), and gaining more confldence in praying in the gatherings and sharing ideas during the study tlmes. It's our hope that we'll all continue to strengthen one another In the faith. Anthony Ros• Home Group Leader Leader Where? When? Members Ant & Jane Rose The Spa Mondays at 19:30 Celia Shill Place Road Fridays at 10:30 Francis Moloney Thyme Road Altemate Wednesdays at 19:30 Gillian Blackham Bream Close Mondays at 19:15 Kate Ocock Woodrow Road Tuesdays at 19:30 21
Serving Teams A clergy friend described to me what it felt like as their church had grown from a few dozen members to several hundred: 'It was like going from a kick-around in the park to playing in an 11-a-side league although it s still the samegame of football. another degree of organisation was required" Just like jumpers for goalposts. in the park, a small church relies on a close network of informal relationships. with a small number of people covering several different positions. But as things grow, the team must be arranged deliberately and an increasingly formal structure is required to facilitste activity. To that end, we recently Invited all those involved in leadership to the Grlffin Gathering Space on Bowden Hill, for a day away to think about how the leadership of our serving teams might become more organised and transparent, with the goal of making it easier for new church members to get involved in serving, without anyone becoming overwhelmed. The chart below is an attempted snapshot of the different teams at church: who leads them. and how they're currently doing. Our hope is that everyone in church would have the opportunity to serve - which team might you join? °Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God s grace in its various forms.- - I Peter 4:10 22
Team Admln Status Commilmènt Charti8 Phll Mcmullen, Wdl established 5 evenlng me8ting8 and 1 away-day per year 9am Sor¥lng T•am (sIdwrn. rnaders, Intercess, Sacristan) Chadio {would be happy to hand ovwl) Chuychsuite {Charlse) Wdl 8Stablish•J Sunday moming bimt)nthly garn Challce A881stsnts Ruth Fivash Churchsuite Well established Sunday morning bimonthty gam Tea a Coff•• Mary Soaman & Le8l&y Wind8bank Churchsuite {Charfle) Weil established Sunday morning monthty 11>AI T•a & Coff•• Jane Brown WhatsApp Newly establIshl Sunday momlng monthly 10a) Wolcome Jane Rose Newly establIshl Sunday moming monthty Alpha Toam Charlie Chadie Establish1 Tues evenings, Jan - Apr 10A1 ProJ•ctlon Andy Cbse Getting thern - need moro t8am Sunday mornlng monthly 11k80 Wornhlp Team Dave Scott / What&4pp Getting there - ne8d rn8 musicians Sunday momSng twlce a rnonth Francis Franc18 NwJ8 rnore team Sunday momlng twlce a month Bwkffing To Serve Hannah phase 11 P Wintour phase 2 Kld8 T•am Hannah Hannah Needs morn leadarn Sunday momlng monthly Pastoral Team Francis Wha18App Newl8 mor8 monl Voryr T•arn Dave Martin Has leadw8hlp, ne&ls more team Sunday mornings: ad-hoc funeralWaddln8choo19 1(kW snd Tearn Andy Close WhalsApp Needs mor8 team Sunday mornlng monthly Facllftl88 Team Whatwp group Has toam membw8. needs lèadernhlp Saturdays morrthlylad-hocl monthly cleanlng Church Watch Allstalr Bank8 Ali8tair Banks Need mo volunlews Wèaldy mldwe8k owng•r Barry Scwlett Bary to hand Ecorfhur¢h Team Gllllan Blackham Soon to bè establlshed Ev•nts Taam7 Prayer Ministry T•am7 23
Women's Ministry I have been blessed to be part of our women's minlstry, and so far we have had two exciting days togetherl Firstly, we reflected on the book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3 during the coffee morning at St Bamabas where the Crafty Cafe kindly set us up activities such as deslgning notebooks and prints. We spoke about and reflected on what season of life we were currently in, and some of our wonderful, God-fearing women of the congregation opened up and shared their stories of faith, loss and growth with the Lord. On the first of February this year, about 10 of us convoyed up to Cheltenham together to Trinity Church for the New Wine event Reset where thousands of women across the country, 400 in CheenhaM alone. gathered together to Worshi pray, reflec( discuss and heal together in the Lord's presence. The pastries, biscuits and coffee were good. but what was better was hearing the moving testimonies of women of all different backgrounds coming together and bravely sharing how the Lord had worked through them. The next Reset event is on 7th February 2026, so please get that date in the calendar and we would love to see you therel Korah Casey Eco Church In January, the PCC indlcated that we're keen to be more deliberate aboLrt our environmentsl responsibility. The Eco Church program from A Rocha gives a framework to local churches to take practlcal action to care for Gods creation through five areas of church lrfe: Worship and Teaching, Buildings and Energy, Land and Nature. Community and Global Engagement, and Lrfestyle. By surveying these areas and making the necessary improvements, churches can progress towards a Bronze, Silver or Gold Eco ChLArch award. Eco*cHURCH So we're starting our journey towards becoming a Bronze Eco Church - a WhatsApp group has been created, and a date for a kickoff meeting is in the diary - a good startl If you d like to find out more. or would be willing to be part of the Eco Church group, pleasejoin us in the Church R¢x)m at 7:30pm on 4th July. Gllllan Blackham Deanerysynodrepresentatlve and Eco Church Lead 24
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3- Renewing Worship Music at St Michael's Our church music has been wel5 supported duringthe year. Our organ bullder and maintainer Gary Cook plays 3 times a month, supported by Elveen Martin when Gary's duties at Seend Church do not fit in with Melksham's 9am service. Many thanks to you both. Our worshlp band does a wonderful job at the 10.30am Sunday service and we are pleased to have had an upgrade to our sound system, thanks to Andy and Mikey. We have introduced WiFi into the building and we await plans and prices for addition of an upgraded AV desk together with Video Cameras and extended WiFi to include No 11 and the Church Room. Petermaslen kl Installing the new sound desk in March .25 26
New Wine New Wine is absolutely amazlng. Seeing thousands of Christians come together in one place to learn, pray and worship was spectacular. I really loved my time there. Here's two big reasons why: The sheer number of young people. I was 13 when I went which meant that I was part of a teenager group called Luminosity. It was perfect for people of my age range, with a big tent for events Ilke silent discos in the late evening and another, even larger tent that had worship-based concerts every night accompanied by a talk about subjects relevant to teenage life and what it means to be a Christian. During one of those concerts, I was part of something unexpected. While a worship song played. people began to form a circle, holding hands and praising God together. That is something that proved to my slightly waning faith that God was there, with us. in that massive tenL The second thing l enjoyed was just spending time in the camping area dedicated to our church. Through meals and the sense of 2lmost Ilving together for that short period of time. friendships 2nd bonds were formed and the people who went grew closer as a whole. It was lovely to experience that sense of community and connection in both our group and the rest of New Wine. In short. I very much recommend going to New Wine. It is a wonderful festival for people and families of all age groups. with talks groups and seminars dedicated to all kinds of issues. questions and situations. Oscar Laba Youth Group Member Pauls famous pizza oven at New Wine 24 A group from Melksham are heading back to New Wine this summer- why don't you join? Book now at www.new-wine.org 27
Verger Team In August last year, Alistair Banks retlred from his appointment as Verger after many years of devoted service to the Church. We are very grateful to Alistair who patiently mentored and guided two Church members to asslst him and, ultimately, to take over the Verger duties and responsibllities. We were saddened by the passlng of Tony Brinkworth in the latter part of last year. Tony was one of Alistairs"trainee' vergers and we are very thankful to the Lord for his wife, Margarec who has stepped In to take on Tony's verger commitments in addition to her Sacristan responsibilitles. In answer to our prayers, another willing volunteer has joined our small team which now comprises Margaret Brinkworth, Margaret Inchley and myself. Grateful thanks must also go to Terry Inchley and Paul Timbrell who have willingly helped out on occasions where extra palrs of hands have been required on a Sunday morning. Throughout the past year, the Verger team have prepared the Church for the Sunday services, weekly prayer meetings and our monthly mid-week communion services. Weddlngs funerals and the termly SeICe$ for the Forest and Sandridge, Manor and Aloeric schools in Melksham have added a further 27 services throughout the past year which have involved Verger actlvity. These school serrflces are always very well supported by parents and it is a joy for them to hear and experience the Christlan messages contained In these wonderful school events. Our monthly Church cleanlng sessions have taken on a new life with the formation of Charlle's "Saturday Club" the first event having been held on 29 March. Thls provided a much needed spring clean of the many nooks and crannies in the building and some long overdue gardening around the Church yard. A growing list of external DIY projects have been identified for attention when the weather warms up in a month or so. Thls first session was well supported by a dozen or so people who were able to spend some time helping out These sessions will be held on thethird Saturday of each month throughout the year and everyone is very welcome to Join in for as long as they are able to - there is always something to dol Tea, coffee and some tasty nibbles provide a welcome break as and when reouired. Dave Martln Verger 28
Building To Serve- Phase I,'Church House, Thls past year has been an incredible journey as we've watched the long-held vision of restoring the derelict Canon Square building come to life-breathing new purpose into its walls for church growth and community blessing. What began as a dream has become a powerful story of encouragement and God's provision-often showing up in unexpected and creative ways. Throughout 2024. our focus was firmly on fundraising. From local community events and generous gifts from our congregation to successful grant applications, the response has been overwhelming. We've been amazed by the support from a wide range of funders-including local councils. charitsble trust and local businesses-who have caught the vision for what Church House will make possible. Thanks to this generosity, we raised over £200.000 and began building Work with energy and expectation in January 2025. That said, the journey hasn't been without its challenges. As with any building over 250 years old. we've faced our fair share of surprises-structural issues, planning delays, a change of building partner, and other frustrations typical of a project of this scale. Yet, through it all. God has remained faithful, and an incredible team of volunteers has stayed joyful and committed. We're now just slx weeks away from opening the doors (on time and in budget), and it truly feels like a collective victory. Whether you've donated time, treasure. or talent-whether through cheerleading, painting. praying, or applying for grants-thank you.your contribution has helped shape something lasting, and we can't wait to see how God will use this space. Hannah Thomson Project lead, Building To Serve Phase I 29
4- Pastoral Care Pastoral Team Pastoral care is one of our five priorities, offered by both clergy and our Lay Pastoral Team. Through home visits, hospital and care home support, and simply being present to listen and pray, the team continues to share the love of Christ with those in need. Regular services of Holy Communion and Praise & Prayer have tsken place in several local care homes, offering moments of worship, comfort. and connection. We give thanks for all who offer their time. compassion. and presen in this quiet but deeply important ministry. Francls Moloney Care Home Visits Visits to Care Homes and Independent Livlng units have been a part of Melksham Church's pastoral visiting for many years. Regular services are held at Crown House, Brookside and Alpine Villa. We will extend this to other settings rf invited. Pastoral visits to individual residents are made as requested. Anna Chaplaincy Marilyn Flower, licensed Anna Chaplain, works within the Pastoral Team alongside clergy and LPAS. She has continued to develop Older Persons ministry, particularly for those in care settings. Thls can include those with Dementia, family members and staff. Regular support and training is given via the Anna Chaplaincy network with seminars and workshops linking chaplains from around the diocese and at national level. Marilyn hopes to attend the national gathering in October. 31
Coffee & Conversation Various groups continue to offer friendship and fellowship to our own regular Church members, those from other churches and those yet to find faith. In all these varlous pastoral settings we strive to reflect God's love to all through friendship, service and hospitslity. StB- meets on the 1st Thursday of each month, 2pm at St 8arnabas Coffee in the Park- 4th Tuesday each month at 10am. Evie's Kitchen in King George V Park Maiityn Flower LPA & Anna Chaplaln Crafty Cafè This last year Crafty Cafe has continued to have a regular eighteen to twenty people each week Friendships have strengthened and they demonstrate much kindness towards each other by sharing skills, resources and looking out for each other when people aren't well. For those who have yet to discover a faith In Jesus we have demonstrated byjoining with other church events, including the Women's Brunch which brought together women to share their stories of understanding and their faith joumeys in a creative way to help make Jesus known. We made common place books and showed howtodecoratethem with the recording of favourite passages frorn books. quotes and sayings. shad recipes, prayers etc revealing to the reader maybe a deeper sense of self. We have also recently made paper flowers together as a group to embrace 'World Prayer Day,, enabling our creative skills to focus on the larger world around us and why prayer matters. Heather Mcmullen & K8ren Attfleld Crafty Cafe 32
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5- Reaching the Next Generation Sunday Club There's nothing quite like watching our toddlers beat their tambourines with joy and abandon on Sunday mornings-glving Alex on the drums a true run for his moneyl These small moments remind us of the big work God is doing In the lives of our youngest church family members. Over the past year, our Kids and Families Minlstry has continued to grow in depth and reach. We are blessed with 32 dedicated team members serving across kids and youth, pouring out time. love, and creativity week after week. Our Sunday groups have been steadily growing, with 62 kids and youth who are part of our regular community and a recent record Sunday seeing 47 engaged in groups exploring the life and miracles of Jesus. It's been a privilege to witness the wonder on their faces and the spark of fawth tsking root as they learn more about who He is. At Christmas. 460 famllies and children joined us for our Christmas Eve services, many hearing the good news of Jesus for the first time-what a joyful and humbling moment in our shared story. Though our mid-week toddler group and other weekday provSsions remaln on pause, we continue to pray in a full-time kids worker-and await with bated breath the outcome of our recent appllcation to the Church of England for a fully funded post In the meantlme, parents have found connection in new home group formats. newborn meal rotas have blessed many, babysitting swaps fly around and groups of mums and dads gather informally for coffee fuelled play date& We long to see more of this in the year ahead as we walk with one another in the wild journey of parenting. We thank God for what He's done-and what's still to come-in this vibrant. growing ministry. As we look ahead to this coming year. we are excited to move Sunday Kids groups out of the Rectory and into the soon to open Canon Square space. As a team, we have set our alarms daily for 10:14am, inspired by these verse5 in Romans to share the good news with the next generation - join usl Hannah Thomson Chlldren & Famllles l•ad 34
I'IJ, .?, Youth Weekend Away at Viney Hill in June '24 Youth We've continued to build on our Sunday moming youth provision during the 10:30 service. and it's been a joy to see young people engaging seriously with the bible and with one another. Our newly launched midweek youth group has added another point of connection, giving space for friendship, fun, and faith to grow in a more relaxed setting. We also ran a Youth Alpha course this year, creating room for open conversations about life and faith. The residential weekend at Viney Hill was a real highlighL deepening relationships and providing powerful moments of encounter with God. A significant milestone was seeing several of our young people confinned, including one renewing their baptism. alongslde members of the youth team. We're also beginning to see some of our older young people choosing to stay in church and Join the adults for listening to the sermons- a sign of their maturing in faith that's deeply encouraging. Our youth team continues to grow, and theÈr dedication and heart for young people are a huge gift to the lrfe of our church. We're excited for all that's ahead, including another youth weekend away at Viney Hill in 2025 and moving back into Canon Square, as we continue to support our young people in following Jesus. Francls Moloney Youth Lead 35
Forest & Sandridge C of E Primary School Over the past year. our relationship with Forest & Sandridge School has continued to flourish. I have had the privilege of leading collective worship regularly in school, as well as welcoming the children to St Michael s for services throughout the year. These opportunities to share the love of Jesus and explore the Christian faith together have been a real joy. In addition to leading worship, I have now joined the school's Local Governing Body. This has deepened our partnership and allowed for greater inslght into the life of the school and the dedicated work of the staff team. A particular highlight this year was celebrating with the school community as they reiVed an Outstanding grade in their recent Ofsted inspection. This is a significant achievement and a testament to the commitment, creativity, and care shown by all the staff. On behalf of the church, l offer heartfelt congratulations. We look forward to continuing to grow this relationship in the year ahead, and to supporting the school in its vision Frdncls Moloney 36 Confirmation service in April 25
The Manor C of E Primary School This year The Manor has seen lots of positlve changes. welcoming Fiona Prendergast as the new Deputy Headteacher as well as several new experienced teachers, forming a dedicated close-knit team. There have also been significant changes to the Local Governing Commlttee, saying goodbye to our previous Chair, Toni Mills, and welcomlng new co-opted and parent governors. Work has contlnued on improving the children's behaviour and attendance, with visitors commentlng on the calm atmosphere with children ready and eager to leam. The school is ralslng the aspirations of the children with their "Il by Il. programme - a list of 11 trlps and experiences that all chlldren will have had access to by the time they turn ll years old, ranging from fossil-huntlng on the Jurassic coast, to visiting the Houses of Parliament to see democracy in action in Year 6. In February, the school launched its new Christian vision based on Matthew 5.15: 'Let your Light Shine". supported by the new school values of wisdom, aspiration. community. love and joy. Charlie Thomson talked to the children about the Bible passage around this, and Marl( Cheeseman has been teachlng them some new worship songs around the theme of light as well. We eagerly anticipate a visit from Ofsted very soon, which we trust will reflect the huge effort that has gone into the transformation of the school by the staff since the last inspection in 2022. Vlcky Just Chalrof Governors We're keen to contlnue to strengthen links with our schools and would love to hear from you if you're interested in helping - whether as a governor, or by listening to the children read for an hour a week - please let Vicky, Francls or Charlle knowl 37
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Bradford Deanery It has been a privilege to serve as Rural Dean of Bradford Deanery slnce October, and l am grateful for the warm welcome and support I have received. Thls past year has seen slgnlflcant transitions in clergy roles across the deanery. important discussions on mission and finance, and a continued commitment to sharing thé gospel in our parlshes and beyond. As Rural Dean. my priorities are to support clergy and their families. facilitate meaningful conversations about how we can make Jesus known in practical ways, and walk alongside parishes in vacancy. The work of the deanery is a shared endeavour. and l am especially grateful to the deanery standing committee for their dedication and wisdom. A number of clergy changes took place during 2024. Rev Alastair Wood, moved from St John's Upper Studley to Peterborough Diocese. also Rev Canon Joanna Abecassis retired from Holy Trinity Bradford on Avon. We said farewell to Rev Allan Coutts, Vlcar of St Thomas and St John's West Ashton who has retired to Yorkshire, also Rev Jane Palmer, Vicar of Shaw, Atworth and Whitley and our Rural Dean has moved to Hanworth in West London. Both Jane and Allan were given a bottle by Rev Jake Eggertsen as a token of the Deanery's appreciation. We welcomed Rev Chris Hunter as Rector of Canalside benefice and Rev Jenny Nelson to Holy Trlnlty Bradford on Avon. Rev Katie Jackson was appointed Rector of North Bradford and Villages, she was formerly curate at St Katherine's Holt. Synod Meetings in 2024: 5th Feb - St Mary Magdalen. Hilperton -"Making Jesus Known" 4th June - Christ Church, Shaw - Rob Jackson on "The Bridge Youth Project" 31st Oct- St John's. Upper Studley- Anthony hAacrow-Wood,"Intro to the New Share System" As we look ahead, I pray that we wlll continue to encourage one another in faith and mission. seeking fresh opportunlties to serve our communities with the love of Christ. Rev. Jak¢ Eggertsen Rural Dearn and WKar of Stjames Trowbridge. with StLeonard* Keevll 39
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL MEMBERS OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM. SALISBURY I report to the Council Members on my examination of the financial staiements of Thg Parochial Chur¢h Council of Ihe Melksham Parish of the Ecdesiaslical Parish of M8lksh8m. Salisbury Itha charityl for the year end&d 31 December 2024. R•spoMlbllltle• and basis of r•port As the Council Members of the charity you are responsibl$ for the preparation of the financial statsments in aceordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011. I report In respect of my examination of the charlty's financlal statements carried out under sedon 145 of the Charilie$ Act 2011. In carying out my examination I have followed the Dirnction5 given by the Charity Commi$$ion under 8e¢tion 14515llbl of the Charities Act 2011. Independent axamingrfs statomgnt Since the charity's gross Income ex¢eodod £250.000. the independent examiner must be a member of a body listed in sedion 145 of the Charities Act 2011. 1 confimi that l am qUalifd lo undertake the examination because l am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. whi¢h is one of th• listed bodies. Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared the financial statements in 8ccordance Wbth the relevant v•rsion of the Statement of Recommended Practi applicable lo charities preparing Iheir financial statements in 8ccordan¢e wilh the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 1021 in prefence lo the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred lo in the extsnt regulations but has now been withdrawn. l understand that this has been done in order for the financial 8talem8nts to provide a true and fair vrew in accordance with UK Generally Aecepted Accounting Practi. I have completed my examination. I confimi that no matters have come to my altsnlion in connedion vthh the èxamination giving me causg to believ8 that in any malerial rospect.. accounting r•¢ords wor• not kopl in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Charitie$ Act 2011. the financial statements do not 8ccord with those re¢ord$,' or the financial statements do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the forn and conlent of financial 8lalemenl$ set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requiremgnl that the financial ststements give a true and fair vi, which is not a mstter considered as part of an indopendenl examination. I have no con¢ems and have come across no other matters in conne¢tion with tho examination to whi¢h attention shoubj be drawn in this rnport in order lo enable a propgr understanding of the finan¢ial statements to be r8ached. Julian Pocock FCA CTA 17 The Market Place Devizes ltshire SN10 1BA Li olr
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Unr•striclod Rostrl¢ted nds funds 2024 2024 Total Unrnstri¢tsd Restrlcted fund8 funds 2023 2023 Total 2024 2023 Notss Income from: Donations and legacies Charitab18 activities other trading activities Invesknents 140,424 23.651 2.095 3,513 231.741 372.165 23,651 7,081 4.802 148,509 16.460 3.195 9,933 32.265 180,774 16.460 3,195 10,047 4.988 1.289 114 Total incomo 169,683 238,016 407,699 178.097 32.379 210.476 Expenditurn on: Raising funds Charitable activities 271 159.496 10,346 70.184 10.617 229.680 85 191.173 34.763 225.936 Totsl gxponditur• 159.767 80,530 240.297 191,258 34.763 226.021 N8t gainslllosses) on investments 13 2.525 2.525 (8.987) {8,987) Net incomo1{oxpenditure) 9,916 160,011 169,927 (13,1611 111,371) (24,5321 Transfers behve•n funds 18.290} 8,290 13,502} 3,502 Net movèment In nds 1,628 168.301 169,927 (16,663) 17,869) (24.532) Reconciliation of fund8: Fund balances at 1 January 2024 54,697 641.397 696,094 71,360 649,266 720,828 Fund balanus at 31 December 2024 56,323 809.698 866.021 54.697 641.397 696,094 The statement of financial activiti•s includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All in¢ome and expenditure derive from continuing activities. -41
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY BALANCE SHEET ASAT310ECEMBER 2024 2024 2023 Notss Fix•d a¥•ets Tangible assets Investrnents 16 416,317 119.622 420.120 117,098 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank end in hand 535,939 537.218 18 12,783 326,733 160,718 339,516 Croditorn: amounts falllng du• withln ono year 160,718 17 (9,4341 (1,842) Net ¢urrnnt assets 330,082 158,876 Total usets l&s$ current Ilabilitiès 866,021 696.094 The lunds of th• charlty Restrictad income funds Unrestri¢t•d funds 809.698 56,323 641.397 54.697 19 866.021 696,094 The financi818tstomtnts wore approved by tho Council Members on 18 May 2025 Miss H ia Shi Councll M8mb•r Reverend Charlie Thomson Councll Membor -42-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM. SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Accounting policios Charity infomiation The Parochial Church Council of the Melksham Parish of the E¢¢lesiastical Parish of Melksham. Salisbury is a boty corporate (PCC Powers M8asure 1956. Church Representation Rules 2006) and is a gIStered charity. 1.1 Accounting convention The financial statements have been prepared in accnrdance with the charity's goveming document, the Charities Act 2011. FRS 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK 8nd Republic of Ireland" and the Charilies SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Ststement of Recommended Praclic8 applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 1021" The tharity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in thg SORP for ¢harities not to prepare a statement of cash flows. The finanaal statements have departed from the Charities {A¢¢ounts and Reports} Regulations 2008 only lo the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Pradi¢e for ¢haritie$ apptying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Pradiee which is referred to in th& Regulati¢)ns but which has since been withdrawn. Th• financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Mongtary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The financial statements have been ppared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 1.2 Going con¢orn At the time of approving the financial statements. the Council Members have a rBasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the fOseeable future. Thus the Council Members continue to adopt the going concern basi$ of accounting in preparing the financial statements. 1.3 Charitable funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discxetion of the Council Members in furtherance of their charitable objectives. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donots or grantors as to how they may be used. The pu0$eS and uses of the restn.cted funds are set out in the notes to the financial ststements. 1A In¢om8 Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions havo b8&n m•L the amounts can be measured reliably. and it is probabl8 that income will be received. Cash donations a Cognised on receipt. other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless perfomiance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of Govenant is recognised at the time of the donalion. Legacies are recogni$ed on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution. the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known. the legacy is treated as a ¢ontingenl assel. -43-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 A¢¢ountlng policies {ContiThued) 1.6 Expgnditure Expenditure is recogni5ed once IheTe is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third paty, il 1$ probable that a transfer of economi¢ benefits will be required in setMemen( and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is dassified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the totsl of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributsble to a singl& activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activty and support costs which are not attributable to a single actwity are apportioned beknen those activities on a basis onsislent wth the use of resources. Central staff costs a allocated on the basis of time spent and depreciation charges are allociled on thé portion of the assevs use. Expenditur8 is recognised on an accruals ba$is as a liability when incurred. Charitable expenditure ¢omprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activibgs and servico for it$ ben8ficiarie8. 11 indudes both costs that can be allocated dire¢Uy to such a¢lvitl88 and Ihose c$1$ of an indirect nature ne¢e$$ary lo support Ihem. Goveman¢e costs include those costs associated with meeting the con$litulional and statutory requirements of the charrty. All costs are allocated be¢•n the expenditure categories of the SOFA on a basis designed to refiect the u$e of the resource. Costs relating lo a partfcular a¢tivity are allocated diredly, wherea8 others a apportioned on an appropriate basis. 1.6 Tangible fixed a88•ts Tangible fixed assets a initially measured at cost and subsequently measured al ¢osl or valuation. nel of depreciation and any impainnent losses. Assets costing £1,000 or more are capitalisèd as tsngible fixed assets and am carried at cost, net of depre¢ialion and any provision for impairynent Depre¢ialion is provided at rates Calculated to WTite off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset over its expeeted usgful life, as follows= Land and buildings Fixtures. fittings & equipment No depreciation charged 20% straight line The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference beeen the sale proceeds and the carying value of the asset. and is renised in the ststemenl of financial acliviliey. 1.7 Fixgd asset inv8stsnents Investrnenls are a form of basic financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction value and subseqLJendy meaSUd al their fair value as at the balan¢e sheet date using the closing quoted market price. The stslement of financial activiti8$ indudes the net gains and losses arising on revaluation and disposals throughout the year. The ¢harity does not aquire put options, derivatives or other compl8x finanal instruments. The main form of financial risk facgd by the charity 1$ that of volatility in equity markets and investment markets due lo wider economic conditions. the attitude of investors lo inveslmgnl risk and changes in sentimenl concerning equiligs and wilhirb particular sectors or sub Sectors.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Accounting policies {Continu•d) Cash and ca$h oquNalènts Cash and cash equivalents indude cash in hand, deposits held al (211 with banks, other short-temi liquid investrnents wilh original maturilres of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafis are shown within borrowings in lnt liabilities. 1.9 Flnancial instrumanis The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Seclion 11 'Baslc Flnanclal Instruments. and Section 12 'other Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of its financial instswments. Financial instruments are re¢ognised in the Charity's balanc8 Sheet when the charity becomes paty lo th8 ¢ontractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset with the net amounts pRsented in the financial stat8ments, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts arkd there 1$ an intention to settle on a not ba$1$ or to realise tho asset and settle the liability simultan•ousty. 1.10 Employee bon•ffts The cost of any unused hollday entlllement is recognlsed In the period in which the employee's sebvS¢es are rec£ived. Temination b8nefit$ are rewnised immediately as an 8xp8n$e vthen the company ts demonstrably eommitted to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide tem)inats'on benefits. Critical a¢¢ounting egtlmateg and Judgemènts In the application of the charity's a¢counllng polcles. the Coundl Members are required to make judgements, estimates and assumpts'ons about the carying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and asso¢iated assumplions are based on historical experien and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from thgsg estimates. The estimates and underfying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates a recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period. or in the period of the revision and luture periods where the revision affects both curn1 and future penods. Incom• from donallons and lggacigs Unreslrlcted Restricted fund* funds 2024 2024 Total Unrestricted Restricted fund8 funds 2023 2023 Totsl 2024 2023 Donations and gifts Grants 140.424 107,441 124.300 247,865 124,300 148.509 32,265 180,774 140.424 231,741 372,165 148,509 32,265 180,774 -45-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 In¢ome from charltsble actlvlti•¥ Unre8tricted lundg 2024 Unre8tr1cted fund¥ 2023 Wedding, lunèral and other fees 23,651 16.460 Incorne from othertrading a¢tiviti88 Unrestrl¢tod Rostrlct funds funds 2024 2024 Total Unrestrictsd Ro8trl¢tsd fundg fundg 2023 2023 Totsl 2024 2023 Fundraising events Parish maga2ine sales and advertising 4.986 4,986 2.095 2.095 3.195 3.195 Other trading activities 2.095 4.986 7,081 3,195 3,195 Incom• from investmonts Unr•8tri¢tgd Restrl¢t•d nds funds 2024 2024 Total Unrn$tricted Re•tricted funds funds 2023 2023 Totsl 2024 2023 Income from listed investments 3,513 1,289 4.802 9,933 114 10,047 Exp8nditur• on ralging fund• Unrestri¢led Re8tri¢tsd fund8 nds 2024 2024 Total Unrestrict•d Restricted nds nds 2023 2023 Total 2024 2023 Fundral•lng and publiclty Staging fundrai$ing events Fundraising agents 271 8,556 3.790 6.827 3.790 85 85 271 10,346 10.617 85
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ICONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Expènditure on charltable acthiltles support Governance 2024 2024 Total 2024 Support Goveman¢e 2023 2023 Total 2023 Direct costs Grant funding of activities {see note 9) 2.599 2.599 1,749 1.749 Shar• of •upport and governance ¢ts Isoe nots 10 Support 223,481 Govemance 223,481 3.600 222,345 222,345 1,842 3.600 1,842 226,080 3,600 229,680 224.094 1.842 225,936 Anaty818 by fund Unrestricted funds Restricted fvnds 155,896 70,184 3.600 159,496 70.184 189.331 34,763 1,842 191,173 34,763 226.080 3,600 229,680 224,094 1,842 225.936 Grnnts payable 2024 2023 Grants to institutions= Church charities Secular charities 882 1,717 1,011 738 2,599 1,749 -47-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 10 Support costs Support Governanco costs osts 2024 2023 Ba¥18 of allocallon Staff costs Depreciation Clergy expenses Insurance 6,750 3,804 10,183 12,148 11,509 6,750 3.804 10,183 12.148 11,509 8,682 6.143 21.237 11.905 12,034 Repaiv5 and maintenan( Upkeep of seNi¢e$ Deanery Sharg Subscriptions Other ordinary expenditur8 Magazine and newslettgrs Fees 74,681 896 86,347 1.497 74.681 896 86,347 1.497 86.524 1,676 80,515 1,907 1.907 4.954 1.476 7.199 11,115 11,115 Audit foes AKountancy 1.040 2,560 1,040 2,560 960 Govemance 882 Govemance 223.481 3,600 227,081 224,187 Analysed been Charitable activities 223,481 3,600 227,081 224.187 Governan costs includes payments to tha accountants of £1,0401202> £960) for independent examination fees. 11 Council Membors None of the Council Members reIVed any remuneration for seTving as a Trustee. During thg year 2024, 1 ministers12023". 21 received £3,247 {2022'. £2.479 and £79} for re1Mbuernent of Ministerial fees. travel and other expenses. Statutory fees and expenses were paid to the following Council Members.. S Cole £1,10412023.. £3601 for Verger's fees and other axpenses reimbursed. R Hucknall £22012023, nil) for Vergerfs fees. H Thomson £1,021 12023-. £3,972) for providing childcare and for reimbursement of other expenses. P Maslen £14812023., £263) for Vergers fees and other expenses reimbursed. G McLean £217 {2023." £2801 for other expenses reimbursed J Parr £nil12023.' £491 for other expgnses r•imbur$8d. Mrs A Hucknall. the wife of a council memb•r, teceived £6.750 (2023.. £6.0001 for her role as tho Parish CIgTk and £64612023.. £5721 for V8rgerfs fe95 and oth8r expenses reimbursed. Mrs P Fivash, the wife of * ¢ouncil member. received £73 (2023.. £56) for roimbursgrnent of expenses. Mrs M Flower, the wife of a council member. re¢8ived £012023.. £391 for reimbursement of expenses. l McL6an, the husband of a ¢ouncil m8mber. ceiVed £5012023.. £1071 for othor expenses reimbursed.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEmErs (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 12 Employev4 The average monthly number of employees during the year was.. 2024 Numb•r 2023 Number Employm•nt costs 2024 2023 Wages and salar 6.750 8.682 There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60.000. 13 Galns and losses on investments Re¥tri¢tsd fvnds 2024 Restrl¢t¢d funds 2023 Gainsl{lossesl arising on.. Revaluation of inveslments Sale of investments 2,525 {9,668) 681 2,525 18,987) 14 Taxatlon The charity is exempl from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL sTATEmEs {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 15 Tanglble flx•d •ugts Land and •IklIng6 Hxti ffttlngs & equlpm•nt Tot*1 Cost At 1 January 2024 388,636 93,559 482,195 At 31 December 2024 388.636 93,559 482.195 Deprn¢iation and irnpalrnwnt Al 1 January 2024 Depreciation charged in thè year 62,074 3,804 62.074 3,804 At 31 December 2024 65,878 65,878 Carrying amount At 31 December 2024 388.636 27,681 416.317 At 31 December 2023 388,636 31,484 420.120 Th• carrying value of land includod in land and buildings comprises.. 2024 2023 Freehold 388,636 388,636 16 Dobtorn Amounts falling duo wlthin one yoar: 2024 2023 Other debtors 12.783 17 Croditor8: amounts falling du• withln one y•ar 2024 2023 Trade creditors Accruals and deferred income 4,974 4,480 1.842 9.434 1,842 -50-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMEMfs (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 18 Reslrlcted fvnds The restricted fvnds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how Ihey may be used. At 1 January In¢oming Resources Transfers Gains and At31 2024 resources expended losses December 2024 Team Rgstricted Funds B¢)ok of prayers Rectorfs fund Church Clock B2S stA'$ investment Portman Terrace Bell Project 8t Ml¢hael's Restrlcled Fund• Church Fabric Church roof Church Rgordering Vestments Or9an fund StAndrew's Re8trlcted Funds Building fund St Barnabas Restricted Funds Other restricted Men'$ Ministy Vlsion for growth Building to s•rv• Restricted investments Everett investrnent Stewart investment INatson inveslment Old Cottage H05Pital investment Smith4(een investrnent St Michael's Hall investment St Barnaba8 Field8 11a Canon Square Other equipment 1.414 2.954 4.600 1,172 3,409 10,644 1.414 2,654 718 (300) {3.882) 6,080 17,2521 {3,4091 (10,6441 37.509 (18,887) 18,622 12.965 602 17,294 132 776 {2,8801 10.085 {6021 (79} 120.818> 5,033 1.430 132 776 17,857 155 {4.813> 13,199 40 128 {40> 1128> 308 55,688 308 224,421 30,191 189,239 (50.697) 4,356 32,823 1.289 155> 751 30 4,301 33.574 1.319 47,765 10.285 1.093 235 48.858 10.520 20.580 39.500 349,136 31.485 471 21,051 39,500 349.136 27.680 13.805) 641.397 238.016 (80,530) 8.290 2,525 809,698 51
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 18 R•stricted funds (Contlnu•d Previous year: At 1 January Incoming Resources Transfern Gains and At31 2023 mour¢es expended 10ssg5 De¢embor 2023 Team Restricted Fund8 Book of prayers Rectorfs fund Church Clo¢k 82S StA's investment Portman Terrace St Michael's R•stricted Funds Chur¢h Fabric Chur¢h roof Church R•ord•ring Childn,$ ministy Vostments Organ fund StAndr•w'• Re•tri¢tsd Fund• Building fund St Barnabas Restrl¢t•d Funds Other restricted Men's Mini$ty Vlsion for growth Bulldlng to servo R•strieted Invoslments Everett investsnent Stewart investment Watson investment Old Cotta9e Hospital inve$trn&nt Porknan Terrace investsnent Smith-Keen investment St Michael's Hall inv&$tment Melksham Church Hall stAndw,$ invesknent Brampton Court invesknent st Barnabas Fi•lds 11a Canon Squaro othgr equipment 1.414 2.954 1.414 2,954 4,600 1,172 3,409 10,644 4.600 1,172 3,409 10,644 6,419 602 15.596 22.171 115,625) 12.965 602 17,294 1.698 {3,926) 3,123 132 776 132 776 17,744 113 17.857 566 128 40 1,822 12,7671 379 128 40 30.191 {6,302} 36,493 4,350 29,689 1,165 4,356 32,823 1.289 3.134 124 43.204 4,561 47,765 10.407 10.641 110,644) 237 1356) 10,285 18,810 100,616 3,333 1,770 {3.915) 75 20,580 196,701) {3,408} 303,552 39.500 (288,929) {14,6231 39,500 349,136 31.485 349,136 37,628 {6,143) 649,266 32,379 (34,763} 3,502 (8.987) 641.397 -52-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEmErs {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 18 R•stri¢ted funds (Continuedl Details of restrictions on Melksham investments are as follows" B¢)ok of Prayers-A donation from Pamela Muller for children's ministry. Rector's Fund- These are monies donated to promote Christian Mission within the Melksham Parish. chUh Clock- to repaiT and stOre the church dock in St. Michael 82S- Building to SeNe project is to invest in SL Michael's facilities to meet the growing needs of our church and community. Bell Project - To augment the bells al Melksham from eight to ten. It was anbcipated to have the new bejjs finished in time to cdebrate their ¢entenary in June 2025. Church Fabric- To maintain St. Michael churth buildings and ¢hur¢hyard. Church Roof- To maintain SL Michael church roof. Church Reordering- To adapt the St. Mlchael church building to better $8rv8 Iho ¢ongrogatlon's need and the wKler community. Thi$ ha$ n¢)w merged into B2S project. Children's ministry - To provide Sunday dubs for young children a$ well as provisions for teenagers al St. Michael church. This have now merged into general fund. Vestrnenls- To provide for dorgios lilurgical gamients at Sl. Michael SL Michaels Organ Fund - These are monies donated and raised specifically for the purpose of maintaining and upgradin9 St. Michaefs pipe organ StAndre$ Bulldlng Fund-To fund for any building work al SL Andrew Olh•r R8stri¢ted-Any other specifi¢ $triCted funds. Men's minislry- To provide for spiritual and social need$ of men in St. Bamabas IAsion for Growth - A fund raised for r*ordering of the Sl Bamabas church i.e. re-wiring. new hèating, replaca pews with chairs, install full disabled access, install a new kitchen. install the grass concrete in the car part et stewart- funds to be used for fabriclchurch repairs. Walson - fijnds to be used for roof repairs. Old Cottage Hospitsl - funds to be used for churchyard upkeep. st Michaels Hall - The fund is to be applied to maintaining St. Mithael's thurch. Portsnan Terrace - proceeds of sale of curate's house £100 to Church commissione if ¢apital expended. SmtthlKeen - funds to be used for churchyard upkeep. SLMichael's Hall Inve5tment- The fund is to be applied to maintsining St. Michael's church. Melksham Church Hall The capitsl could be wound up and applied to an ecclesiastical capital project with in the parish. stAndrews investment- funds to be used for church maintenance. Brampton Court- funds for use on capital projects. 11a Canon Square A property purchased in 2023 for us? a$ a Churth C6ntre to serve the community. st Bamabas Fiel(i - This area of land adjoining Sl Bamabas Church was bgqueathed to St Barnabas Church for the its use. -53-
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE MELKSHAM PARISH OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF MELKSHAM, SALISBURY NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMEKfs (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 19 unrestrict funds The unrestrict¢d fvnds of the tharity ¢omprtse the unexpended balan¢os ofdonations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may b8 used. These indude designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestrtcted funds by the trustees for Spècific purposes. At 1 January 2024 Incoming Resourcos re80ur¢•t expended Transf•rs At31 Dé¢ember 2024 General funds 54,697 169,683 1159,767) {8.290> 56,323 Previou$ yoar: At 1 January 2023 Incoming Resourc rgsour¢•$ exp•nd•d Tran8f•rn At31 Dec•mbor 2023 General funds 71,360 178,097 1191,2581 (3,5021 54.697 20 Analy81* of nol asset• b•tWn lund8 Unrnstricted fvnd¥ 2024 Re8tri¢ted lunds 2024 Total 2024 At 31 D•cember 2024: Tangible assets Investments Current assetsl(liabilitiesl 416,317 119,622 273.759 416.317 119.622 330,082 56,323 56,323 809,698 866,021 Unrestricted lund$ 2023 Re8trl¢tsd funds 2023 Totsl 2023 At 31 Dgcgmber 2023: Tangibl8 assets Investments Currenl assetsl{liabilities) 420.120 117.098 104.179 420.120 117,098 158.876 54,697 54.697 641,397 696.094