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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of The Upper Wreake

2023-12-31-accounts

The Parish of The Upper Wreake Annual Report for 2023

The Parish of The Upper Wreake Parish consists of the churches of :- BROOKSBY St. Michael & All Angels; FRISBY on the WREAKE St.Thomas of Canterbury; HOBY, All Saints; KIRBY BELLARS St.Peter; RAGDALE All Saints; ROTHERBY All Saints.

Introduc<on:

This annual report has been produced in order to comply with the requirements of the Chari2es Act 1993, and the Church Accounts Regula2ons 1997. The inten2on is to provide a fuller picture of the life of the Church during the year than could be obtained from the accounts alone.

Objec<ves of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and District Church Councils (DCC):

The PCC of the Parish meets at least four 2mes a year to deal with any ma8ers which concern the mission, development and administra2on of the Church, and is responsible for audi2ng decisions of the DCCs.

The DCCs func2on with delegated authority from the PCC in the care of the church buildings (held jointly by the local Churchwardens and the Incumbent), <nance and the local mission of the Church.

Electoral Roll (as at Easter 2023)

Brooksby Frisby Hoby Kirby Ragdale Rotherby Total
2024 6 23 39 15 10 15 108
2023 6 21 40 17 11 15 110

PCC Members

PCC Members
Chair: The Revd David Harkne8
Vice-Chair: Vacant
Secretary: Rev’d David
Treasurer: Rev’d David
Pioneer Curate: The Revd Crystal McAllister_un'l end Jan 2023_
Elected Members:
Frisby-on-the- Wreake: Pru Smith (CW), Simon Blake (CW)
Hoby: Vic Allsop (CW), Nicola Wheeler (CW), June Allsop
Kirby Bellars: David Davies_(observer Rep)_
Ragdale: Jane Burgess (CW), Penny Coates_(observer Rep)_
Rotherby: Sue Smith (CW_),_Lesley Po8er (CW),
Brooksby: Malcolm Bri8on (CW), Jeanne Knowles (CW) un'l March 2023
Co-opted Members: Janet Norburn (SWF Safeguarding OCcer)

CW = Churchwarden

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Rev'd David

1.0 Priest in Charge’s Report

“Four words that St.Paul uses for prayer…

supplica/on : open up your need to God

commitment : a promise, a pledge to God … “I’m here for you” intercession : a mark of the love that rises out of that commitment thanksgiving : for the good things God has done AND absorbing his goodness When all these things come together we are on =re with the Holy Spirit.”

Rowan Williams

I’m a cradle Chris2an, growing from birth with the liturgical calendar – candles, choir and all. The seasons of the church year formed and shaped me, taking me on a never-ending journey. First, the Story of Jesus or … Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Pentecost (six months December to May). Second, the Story of the People of God or ... ‘Ordinary Time’ (six months from June through November). What a beau2ful, divine marriage of heaven and earth; “thy kingdom come”.

Yet, as I look back on 2023, it is the spectre of Minster Communi2es (MCs) which looms large, rather than either of the above stories. Glance down to the Deanery Synod Report (p22), and at the end you’ll see a list of 7 diKerent aspects of the Shaped by God Together process. I may have missed some, and there were certainly more conversa2ons & email exchanges. Resul2ng in feedback from the Upper Wreake such as, “exhaus2on … mistrust”.

My sadness is that while MCs dominated the thoughts and energies of many Churchwardens, who give generously already, the whole process is hardly on the radar of many congregants, and certainly not of the wider community. Sad, because the thrust of it all is God’s kingdom coming, through the life of the local church, described by some as, “the hope of the world”. Thankfully despite the adversity generated by the MC process, that “hope” is obvious in this Annual Report. As Ma8hew (@CrowsFault) tweeted; “People speak of hope as if it is this delicate, ephemeral thing made of whispers and spider's webs. It's not. Hope has dirt on her face, blood on her knuckles, the grit of the cobblestones in her hair, and just spat out a tooth as she rises for another go.”

Hope… that the rhythm of nature can instruct us and bless us, even as we care for it. Hope… in the face of protracted illness and death of an SWF clergy colleague. Hope… that the 2reless dedica2on of a few does sustain places of prayer & spaces for worship. Hope… in the face of a hiatus in local, ecumenical rela2onships and togetherness. Hope… that ordinary, faltering outreach will touch & transform neighbours’ lives. Hope… in the face of constant tempta2on to allow <nance & fabric to be God-less. Hope… that supplica2on, commitment, intercession, thanksgiving really can set us on <re.

Without the Spirit of Holiness (the spirit of the living, loving, re-crea2ng, resurrec2ng God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ), we are individually and corporately moribund; nonMammable. The gospel remains good news for all in the Upper Wreake, as we con2nue to open ourselves up to God; promise to be here for Him; commit to love God and neighbour; absorbed in his goodness.

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1.1 ‘Faith in Nature’

Rev'd Crystal (Ordained Pioneer Minster & Assistant Diocesan Director of Ordinands)

When I <rst came to Upper Wreake in 2019 as an ordinand, I spent that <rst year listening and praying, using my 2me to see evidence of where God was at work—connec2ng with people, looking for ‘people of peace’ who were open to my thoughts and who shared perhaps not a faith but a willingness to join in with something for the greater good. My curacy started in 2020, and I had 12 hours in Upper Wreake to learn the ropes of a parish priest, alongside trying to discern what God was calling me to be. It became evident that a giO I had obtained was to be able to hold ‘spaces’. This raised the ques2ons of ‘where’ and ‘how.’

‘ Faith in Nature’ was born out of a natural response to people, and evidence of seeing the Spirit at work. Using four values – Missional: engaging with people outside the church. Contextual: Love others and Christ in a way that <ts people's situa2ons. Forma2onal: encouraging people, to be open to Christ as part of a fuller life, and Ecclesial: helping people coming to faith to form a Chris2an community.

How do we measure what is good? George Lings iden2<ed seven characteris2c elements in Chris2an communi2es through the ages, which enable a richer expression of discipleship, mission and community when held in balance.

‘ Seven Sacred Spaces’ allows an opportunity to ponder on this. It is not a strategy but a tool to see how healthy a community is.

Cell/ prayer – a private space to be alone with God:

How can we grow in prayer individually… daily s2llness, weekly rhythm?

Evidence – Church is open to people, engaging their senses using relevant & accessible resources. Prayer resources, welcoming church signs, accessible, informa2ve material, using 2mes & seasons.

Chapel / worship – a space for devo2on/prayer with others:

How can we grow in leading and par2cipa2ng in communal worship?

Evidence – Inten2onal, structured worship intended to educate & ‘discover’. Rhythm, regularity & familiarity that uses the ‘everyday’, the lec2onary, other scripture (Pentecost, Mud, Lammas, Equinox).

Chapter / mee2ng – a space of discussion and exchanging views:

How can we model community life through choosing to forgive, sharing hope, humbly making peace? Evidence – The DCC is a place where discussion, debate & disagreement aid decision – wrapped in prayer & scripture. The DCC has grown in number & discovery of giOs – a community that laughs & cries together.

Cloister /mission– a space connec2ng church and the world:

How do we respond in compassionate ac2on to the needs of neighbours, the voiceless, the poor? Evidence – Though challenging, the giving away of money, 2me & physical items has become normal. normality. Connec2ng with others : WI, The Art Group, large frogs(!) and recognised Chari2es.

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Garden / work – a space of labour and produc2vity:

How do we follow Christ in our work, serving God through integra2ng values of faith where we dwell? Evidence – Toilet & servery, school & family events; bats, birds, rewilding, bug hotels, Eco Church Bronze; concerts, music recitals, cleaning days. All tending the world that God created. Work as prayer.

Refectory / sharing meals – a space for ea2ng and hospitality:

How can we prac2se hospitality by welcoming the stranger, the isolated & lonely – sharing food? Evidence - Ea2ng together breeds oneness & belonging. Hoby All Saints is a place of work and rest connec2ng people through church, village hall & home – such as CoKee mornings; alterna2ve Halloween.

Scriptorium Library/study – a space of learning to grow in knowledge:

How can we develop biblical and personal reMec2on, reading and study?

Evidence – ThoughUul, spiritual learning transforms the heart – we become Christ-like. Online groups; Rotherby New-Life Group… spirituality that makes sense of life, with vigorous yet achievable demands.

‘ Faith in Nature’ has enabled Hoby All Saints to recover rhythms. A pa8ern of enabling & encouraging. A space to follow Jesus and the painful but libera2ng process of being transformed by him, in community. My hope and my prayer are that the con2nua2on of connec2ng Church, Community and Home grows. By using this tool, other ‘spaces’ are not forgo8en about. I would encourage you to ask the ‘why’ before the ‘doing’, to stop burnout, exhaus2on and resentment which was felt across churches much as we emerged out of lockdown and people re-evaluated priori2es.

Hoby DCC know that essen2al repairs need to be completed if funds allow it. Accessibility is key, as entrances can stop the movement of people, so although the church is always open, repairs to the entrance pillars and a new path accessible for all people of abili2es are high on the list. A plan for a more structured rewilding of the churchyard is in place. A con2nua2on of accessible and relevant worship that builds community is key. A DCC that con2nues to grow and shape together the future of Hoby All Saints – serving and loving the community, growing deeper in their spirituality and faith. Please do pray for them.

My Deanery role exits un2l June 2025 – unless it is shortened. In the framework of Minster Communi2es, every church will have a named person, ‘minster’, a point of contact. I will keep in contact in this capacity, with Vic and Nicola as churchwardens, equipping and enabling churches with mission and ministry and the development of pioneers and Fresh Expressions of Church, connec2ng schools, Churches and communi2es. There is learning from ‘ Faith in Nature’ that other churches, schools, and communi2es would value. Thank you, June, Ann, Sue, Richard, Jo for being open to change, your willingness to listen, for your con2nued kindness and love to my family, the encouragement in uncertainty and for the commitment and care of Vic and Nicola as your churchwardens.

Peace and love in His name, always.

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2.0 South West Framland Group Council

Canon Vic Allsop (Chair)

I remember thinking that when we were living through the pandemic that there wouldn’t be anything as challenging for us as churches again. I was wrong! Although we are s2ll only now perhaps coming to terms with the longer-term impact of the pandemic on our society, and for us as churches, 2023 brought new challenges all of their own. Should I have been surprised? No, but it s2ll caught me out somewhat.

The sadness for the Stothers family and for SWF con2nued in to 2023. Revd Neil’s long-term absence con2nued and his deteriora2ng health meant that the likelihood of him returning to du2es in his parishes wasn’t going to happen. During the summer it was announced that Revd Neil would be re2ring on the grounds of his ill health with eKect from 1st November 2023. Very regre8ably as we all now know Revd Neil didn’t make it to his re2rement date, and he sadly died on October 13th aged 63. Thankfully the family and friends had been able to facilitate his move to Southport just the week before, so all the family were close to one another to provide support for each other when it was needed most. Revd Neil’s funeral took place on October 31st at Southport and it was pleasing that a number of people from SWF were able to make that journey and give support to the family that day. May he rest in peace, and rise in glory.

The Rectory at South Croxton aOer it was vacated on October 19th then became a project which lasted for almost two months, before it was handed over to the Diocese on 15th December for them to start the process of looking to let the property. The house was s2ll fully furnished as Eileen and Chloe were downsizing signi<cantly aOer their move to Southport. Thanks are due here to Jo Charles, Liz Norton and Linda Shaw for their hard work in helping to sell some items for the family, and arranging with the Bri2sh Heart Founda2on and Air Ambulance to collect furniture, with a <nal trip to the Charity Shop to hand on remaining items the family no longer needed or had room for. This has been no small task and we thank them all sincerely for a job well done in clearing the house as well as the con2nued support for the family given during this 2me.

EKec2vely both the South Croxton Group and Burrough Hill Parishes are now in vacancy (interregnum), and a vacancy mee2ng took place at Burrough on the Hill Parish Church on 26th October. We are more than delighted that we have the ministry of Revd Jane Walker in the Burrough Parishes and she has become a great support in SWF. During the year she been taking services in the South Croxton (SC) Group and has also taken weddings, bap2sms and funerals. She has also taken weddings in the Upper Wreake.

It is also appropriate at this 2me to recall how valuable the re2red clergy have been to us during the 2me of Revd Neil’s illness, and now in vacancy. We are grateful to them all. We men2on one name though, and that is Revd Canon Philip Norwood who has supported the mid-week services at Gaddesby and is taking Sunday services for us as well now that we are in vacancy. We thank Canon Philip for his signi<cant contribu2on to the life of the church in our villages.

In the Upper Wreake (UW) we have con2nued with Revd David Harkne8’s ministry among us and

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that of Revd Crystal McAllister. Changes to Revd Crystal’s curacy arrangements meant that her par2cular associa2on with Hoby and Brooksby in the Upper Wreake came to an end and later she was licensed at Waltham on the Wolds to all of the Deanery. Now Revd Crystal actually ‘belongs’ to us all! We have also been fortunate that Revd Crystal along with other s2pendiary colleagues have been able to support the SC Group over the last year, namely the Area Dean – Revd John Barr, Revd David Cowie, Revd David Harkne8 and Archdeacon Richard. We must also thank Canon Malcolm who has given great service to SWF and he demonstrates very well the giOs lay ministry can bring to our worship. Thank you to you all.

The good thing for us all to see is that despite the diCcul2es that have been faced by Clergy illness and long-term cover for that and now vacancy, we have seen an increase in the number of Churchwardens and increased membership and new energy from the PCC’s. We have small but dedicated groups of people who serve their parish church and the wider community. This is indeed very welcome news.

At Somerby which was struggling with its <nances and was anxious for the future they have started to see an about turn. The founding of the Friends of All Saints and posi2ve thoughts about how to tackle the issues that face the church are very encouraging. This is certainly something to celebrate. Then there are the Roof Resurrectors at Kirby Bellars, a parish church which s2ll has a temporary roof covering aOer all the copper roo<ng was stolen many years ago now. The challenge to replace the roof is a daun2ng and expensive one, but a dedicated group of people work hard to make what may appear to many to be impossible actually become a reality. Working and responding as these two communi2es have has given me and I hope many others the ability to respond to the adversity that we face ourselves in our own communi2es, day by day.

This brings to mind Minster Communi2es (MC), which have been a constant in the life of our churches for most of this year. I intend to say very li8le about MC (I could say an awful lot more). I am though thankful that we have a MC pause un2l early 2024 and that we can focus upon what ma8ers. The life of the church in these villages con2nues regardless of whether we are part of a Bene<ce, SWF, a Deanery or for that ma8er a MC. It is what happens locally that counts as without the local engagement there will be no church. I hope the MC process doesn’t lose sight of that important ingredient.

2023 also saw the corona2on of King Charles III with celebra2ons across the country and the <rst corona2on many of us will have seen. A really posi2ve outcome locally has been the ‘Ring for the King’ ini2a2ve, which was to recruit and teach as many as possible to ring our church bells for the corona2on. The response has been amazing. The UW band has re-formed with 15 new bell ringers, and I know that elsewhere in SWF there are new bell ringers to con2nue this ancient and historic part of our Chris2an heritage. Long may our Church bells con2nue to ring and call us all to worship the King of Kings. We have much good news in SWF let the bells ring out that good news in 2024 loudly and clearly for all to hear. Amen.

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3.0 School

Rev'd David

Winter Term : Charmaine Ainge con2nued shaping the school as its Head and (as a CofE primary) its spiritual Head. The Educa2on & Schools Funding Agency (ESFA) con2nued to work with the Head & Governors on <nancial ma8ers, while the Head & Chair of Governors pursued the decision to join Rise Mul2-Academy Trust.

Rev’d David & Janet Norburn con2nued to serve as Governors, David leading Collec2ve Worship on a regular basis, along with half-termly school Services in Frisby St.Thomas. Thanks to Pru & Simon for their dedica2on to this link with staK & pupils, including serving Refreshments to one Class plus parents aOer each church service.

Spring/Summer Term : St.Thomas hosted the Year 6 pupils “moving-up” transi2on, as school life ended with joy, tears & prayers.

Autumn Term : New staK were appointed, both male, with one full-2me and the other part-2me. Both Adam and James have been appreciated for the immediate diKerence they have made to the culture & ethos of the school.

Rev’d David supported Mrs Ainge in redesigning Collec2ve Worship around a Pupil News resource. The school have also signed up to the Archbishop of York’s :Na2onal Younger Leadership Groups”, an exci2ng opportunity for young people to; “develop in pupil leadership, grow in faith and have their voices heard on key topics and issues that are important to them and their communi2es”.

A Christmas giO consis2ng of a card, chocolate and Advent booklet was given to all StaK thanks to the church Mission & Ministry Fund.

As ever, individual priestly contact with the Head and school is easy, but it remains diCcult to nurture school-church contact across the parish. The geography of the school being in just 1 of the 6 villages and the bisec2ng railway line, as well as the busy-ness of all reading this, explains some of the challenge. At the same 2me, the Church of England’s vision and strategy, led by Archbishop Stephen Co8rell, has a focus on ‘growing younger’, which makes consulta2on and engagement with children and young people integral to the work of the church. How can we build on the long-term, warm rela2onships that we enjoy with Frisby Primary, for mutual bene<t & growth?

4.0 Rotherby House Group

Lesley Po&er

Rotherby hosts a weekly house group on a Wednesday aOernoon in church or if it is cold in someone’s home all denomina2ons are welcome as well as people who wish to explore the bible more and their faith.

We have been studying books by Dave Tomlinson called the bad Chris2ans manifesto and being a Chris2an, they have led us to explore our faith with really good conversa2ons within the group. We have had one new lady join us recently Geraldine and she seems really knowledgeable and is a great asset to the group.

We celebrated Sharon birthday in June with a meal at my house, and a meal at Sue’s earlier in the year we enjoy sharing 2me together and have become good friends, but this is not a closed group and everyone is made welcome, please come and give us a try.

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5.0 LiBle BuBerDies (Carers and Toddlers’ Group)

Jenny Hurst

Li8le Bu8erMies, a weekly mee2ng for preschool children and carers is overseen & run by Jan Pascoe & Janet Norburn. It provides a support group, especially bene<cial for those new to the area and parenthood.

5.1 Methodist Local Lay Pastor

Janet Norburn

~ The Hot Potato Group

These s2ll a8ract a strong regular a8endance, much appreciated by those who usually lunch alone.

~ The Tea and Cakes Group

The ecumenical monthly event run by Pru Smith and Jenny Hurst. We have a loyal group of people who come regularly and some who come when they can. We are also beginning to a8ract some newcomers to the village who enjoy the friendship and conversa2on as well as the home made cake. Dog walkers and owners are also coming. All dogs do however have to be on a lead!

~ DVD Ministry

The produc2on, and weekly deliveries, of DVDs enable housebound people to be part of our worshipping community.

~ Circuit Superintendent

All the Methodist & ecumenical ac2vi2es outlined here have con2nued, despite the extra workload taken on by the Circuit Leadership Team caused by Ruth’s absence due to ill health.

Rev. Ruth remains on sick leave and her hip opera2on has been rescheduled. She is s2ll our named superintendent although Helen Cameron is our ac2ng superintendent whilst Ruth is on leave.

6.0 Safeguarding Janet Norburn (SWF Safeguarding Co-ordinator)

awai'ng

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7.0 St Michael & All Angels Church, Brooksby Malcolm Bri&on (Treasurer)

Mission, Worship and Events

During the year we had 9 Holy Communion Services, 2 bap2sms (one incorporated into a 10.30 morning worship service) and 6 weddings, fewer than in previous years. Because of the fewer people a8ending the 8.30am services, it was agreed to discon2nue these at Brooksby and transfer them to other churches in the parish.

The freemasons held their usual service on Palm Sunday and on Good Friday a foot of the cross medita2ve service was held. The lambing service at Hall Farm was held in April later than previously when the preacher was Bishop Saju. The Remembrance Sunday service is a regular feature. Christmas was celebrated with the RatcliKe Chorale concert and the QHSA carol service. The First Communion of Christmas was celebrated in Brooksby Church.

We also rang the bells for the Corona2on. The church was open as usual for Ride and Stride in September. We were represented again at the Brooksby Hall Wedding Fairs.

Fabric and related topics

Part of the aisle Moor collapsed and this was repaired together with replacing displaced slates on the roof in 2024.

Derek Over<eld con2nued to mow and maintain the churchyard and Candice and Garry Barker have overseen the various bird nest boxes. One of the small cavity boxes around the back was successfully occupied by blue 2ts, the large tawny owl box was occupied by jackdaws, and one of the starling boxes was occupied by jackdaws who gained entry aOer the hole had been made larger by woodpeckers.

The safety of the gravestones was checked and the <re ex2nguishers were serviced.

Fund-raising

A well supported quiz at The Stute, Asfordby, 6 talks to other organisa2ons and the sale of the remaining tea towels raised £1073.

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8.0 St Thomas of Canterbury, Frisby on the Wreake Simon Blake & Pru Smith (CWs)

Mission

Our pa8ern of midweek services has se8led into the following : 1st we now have an organist in the form of Neville. This is Holy Communion. taken by Rev David Harkne8. The 2nd is morning prayer led by Malcolm Bri8on. The 3rd Wholeness & Healing is again led by David. The 4th Wednesday is now led by the Churchwardens and is <rmly embedded in the service pa8ern. The occasional 5th midweek service is Holy communion with David. The congrega2on ranges from 5 – 15 in number and from 2024 will be held at 9.30a.m. (instead of the previous 9.15a.m.).

St Thomas church has also bene<8ed by having a Sunday “Worship” service every 3rd Sunday this year during winter months. Having 5 services per month means it is the most used church in the Upper Wreake parish. Pru Smith (CW) has to be congratulated on the number of cakes she produces not only for the 1st & 3rd midweek services but also pastries for the Sunday service.

CoCoCo : As part of our drive to look more closely at gaps in the pastoral care in the community David & Simon have set up a men’s group currently calling itself “CoKee, Cob & Conversa2on” which is taking place on the <rst Saturdays of each month at the Methodist chapel in Frisby. It is a place where men can meet just to converse and, if they choose, to open up to each other. Originally it was aimed at single men who have lost their spouses or are divorced but not exclusively and any one can join as long as he is a male! Currently upwards of 6 men meet together and appear to enjoy it greatly.

Spiritual renewal : Simon undertook a Cursillo course between 23-26th Nov. Cursillo is Spanish for “li8le course” but although’ li8le in name it was big in God’s presence. He experienced a great deal and came away very enthused & ready for ac2on. One of the things it has led him to is Open Hands, a charity in Leicester which helps those without food, clothing and furniture where he now works on a Thurs morning.

We hosted a record 5 school services in 2023 at Lent, Easter, Leavers’ service, Harvest Fes2val and at Christmas. We think it was the Harvest Fes2val service which topped the record number of children /adults present : 185. The usual Chris2ngle service was well a8ended as well with 106 parents/children/adults present. There were 4 funerals in 2023: Mar2n Coleman, Dick Ha8on, Graham Aylo8 (who ran the Old Post OCce in Frisby for many years before moving to Asfordby) and Carol Sim.

Maintenance/plans for the future

In December we saw the installa2on of the new Sound System. The Sound System has been an unexpectedly enormous asset to the Church. We (including parents) can now hear the children’s

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voices clearly when school services occur. The system has 6 mics : 2 sta2c at pulpit and lecturn, 2 lapel mics and 2 hand held mics. It will play music through a memory s2ck and allow musical instruments, iPhones and computers to connect into it easily. However it has taken the CWs and Vicar some while to master properly: Simon is on his 5th itera2on of simple instruc2ons!

Renewal of the Infrared heaters. This has been looked at in some detail and quotes obtained but has been on hold as the Sound System has taken precedence. We are s2ll wondering if new heaters can in fact make the church a warmer place or not because the heat vanishes upwards into an uninsulated roof space as with all old churches. David also received advice that Infrared heaters should not be installed in churches.

Future plans include major repairs for St Thomas church - see hyperlink below. The Quinquennial report of April 2023 highlighted areas of work which need urgent a8en2on within the next 2 years or before and Simon is addressing this by contac2ng Jamie Mayers (Architect) in order that he produce speci<ca2ons and get contractors to quote. This procedure alone is liable to take approx. 2 mths. He is also aiming to obtain facul2es to cover all 6 items fairly soon. We expect the works to cost in the region £30K. Finally we are approaching the Parish Council for part funding along with applying to the Na2onal Heritage Lo8ery Fund and the Na2onal Churches Trust. The “work up” to a fully Medged bid with all parts in place may take about 6 mths.

The hyperlink below summarises the proposed work. Please click on “Design” when open :

Major repair work to be carried out at St Thomas of Canterbury Church, Frisby on the Wreake (cloud.microsoO)

Problems with damp s2ll persist in the servery/vestry area and John Billings has been doing further work to quan2fy it. The damp appears in the cupboards and on the wooden boards of the servery above the kitchen surface. It can be wiped oK and bleached but reappears aOer a few weeks. We are hoping that the drainage work proposed above will go some way to allevia2ng this con2nuous problem.

Finally we have not done much, if any, fund raising this year through concerts and exhibi2ons largely because a lot of energy has been focussed on the development of Minster Communi2es in the Diocese. It is expected that this might be the case in 2024 as well as we se8le into our new area.

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Nicola Wheeler and Vic Allsop (Churchwardens)

9.0 All Saints Hoby

In 2023 we con2nued to enjoy having Revd Crystal McAllister as our Pioneer Curate. However early on in the year changes took place to Crystal’s curacy which not only ended her direct connec2on with Hoby, but also the Upper Wreake. She was licensed on June 4th at Waltham on the Wolds to a wider role across the Framland Deanery. So, we s2ll have a connec2on with Revd Crystal, but share her with the rest of the Deanery. We were pleased though that she con2nued her Faith in Nature services with us and con2nued as a member of our DCC during the year. Her work to introduce new ways of thinking to our worship con2nued in 2023 and this has been enjoyed across the parish.

We also thank Revd David Harkne8 who has resumed his connec2on with Hoby and Canon Malcolm for their support in 2023.

The close rela2onship with the Methodist Church we have enjoyed for many years, has been impacted by ministerial issues in 2023 which we hope will be addressed in 2024. It has meant that joint worship in Hoby (and the Upper Wreake) ended in September 2023. Services happening at Hoby Parish Church and Hoby Methodist Church on the same day and 2me are indeed regre8able. We pray that we can be reconciled in 2024 and be together again.

Members of the District Church Council (DCC). In 2023 Canon Malcolm Bri8on re2red from the DCC as did Sheila Warner. Three new members joined the DCC and these were Ann Kell, Richard Perry and Jo Perry. These people join the remaining DCC members of Revd David Harkne8, Revd Crystal McAllister, Nicola Wheeler, Canon Vic Allsop, Sue CroO and June Allsop.

Happenings in 2023 – Events, news, fund raising and charity events etc.

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Projects and maintenance work at church during 2023.

Plans to repair the gates and pillars and the church path and introduce disabled access have restarted with faculty applica2ons to be sent in at the beginning of 2024

Projects and maintenance work completed and on hold or requiring some preparatory work.

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completed in December to the sa2sfac2on of our insurers.

Finance of the Parish Church.

In 2023 fund raising from the Open Gardens monies arrived from the Friends of Hoby Church. The <nances of the church will again require close a8en2on in 2024 as the running costs of the church con2nue to exceed the income we receive, and this does not include <nance required for repairs and maintenance etc. Energy costs have gone up signi<cantly in 2023. A le8er to the village encouraging regular giving to the church has had modest success in 2023 and needs further a8en2on. At present reserves can cover the shorUall, but we need to address the imbalance we have. This is a priority for the DCC in 2024

Nicola and Vic thank the villagers again for the support the community gives the church. As we con2nue to work to provide a welcome to all in our community, in 2024 we will con2nue to press on to provide the church with the disabled access that it needs and the new burial ground it requires.

14

10.0 St. Peter’s, Kirby Bellars

10.1 Kirby Roof Resurrectors

’Friends Of’ equivalent

extracts from most recent Minutes (Feb 2024)

Applica2ons for Bird/Bat Boxes ongoing, as is Recording of Oral History. A plan of the Bell Tower for a Ven<la<on Faculty is ongoing, following the liquida2on of Peter Rogan’s <rm of Architects, and Organ Disposal is in the same category. Safeguarding training was completed by a number of the Resurrectors. Church Key has been located to a safe box in the church porch, and sensor ligh2ng is to be installed in the porch and entrance to the church. Funds raised by the Resurrectors amounts to an incredible +£7,000, dedicated to roof replacement. All but the 100 Club funds will be moved to the Fabric Fund, leaving approximately £2,000 for running costs. The Museum have been asked for the return of the Quern Stone for display here, but this awaits a descrip2on by them, which will take a few months. Hedge/Shrub Trimming was led by Derek & Marilyn Over<eld, with Resurrectors & other villagers. The Christmas Eve Service proved very popular once again and the collec2on raised £287.86. Alan McPherson joined the group, bringing a business plan and further informa2on regarding the refurbishment and reordering of Great Bowden Church.

Heritage Lincolnshire have come alongside in the form of Hannah Mayhew, who met with the DCC & RR mid December. Very encouraging and posi2ve, Hannah had draOed an ‘Expression of Interest’ applica2on with informa2on forwarded to her. This was well received by the Heritage Lo8ery Fund in early 2024, and the green light given for a full Funding applica2on.

Liaison with the Village Hall is a key priority for 2024, to promote one another’s work & facili2es.

15

11.0 All Saints, Ragdale

Jane Burgess, Churchwarden

Mission and Ministry

Contemporary Communion Services con2nued to be held on the 2nd Sunday of each month during the year. On Easter Day a breakfast was shared in the church before the Communion Service at 10.30 the service culminated with everyone dressing the Easter Cross with Mowers as they carried their thoughts and prayers to the Cross. There was further celebra2on, aOer the service, as we wished Maurice a very happy 80th birthday with Mark’s homemade hot cross buns.

The Harvest Service was held in September and giOs collected were donated to Storehouse in Melton Mowbray. The service was followed by a simple ploughman’s lunch open to everyone.

The Carol Service was held on 15th December, and we were all delighted to welcome Derek our Christmas organist, who this year s2rred us to join in with percussion instruments to The Calypso Carol, this caused much merriment and warmed everyone up. We were entertained by the three children who a8ended the service as they admirably supported Rev. David throughout the evening. £120 was raised for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. Refreshments of mulled wine, sausage rolls and mince pies followed with most people staying and enjoying the evening.

In July the funeral of Helen Harvey was held at All Saints’ Church, Helen had lived for many years in Ragdale, at Hillside Farm, running a stable and working with horses, Helen was s2ll known to some Ragdale residents. The funeral of Peter Hull was held at All Saints’ Church in November and was interred in the Churchyard alongside the grave of his late wife. Peter, originally a farmer in Ragdale realised that he needed to diversify the business to survive and began a recycling company which has grown to be an important business and employer and is now in the safe hands of his family. Peter and family have always supported the church and con2nue to do so.

There were no weddings or bap2sms held in Ragdale during the year.

At the ADCM mee2ng in March there were no changes to the members of the DCC.

Special Events

There were no special services held at All Saints Ragdale during 2023

Fabric of Church Building

There has been no major maintenance to the church building during 2023. The work to maintain the churchyard con2nues to be giOed by a member of the Church and is very gratefully received. The large Scots Pine tree, which had been leaning and causing damaged to the churchyard wall has now been removed. The Quinquennial Inspec2on had been arranged to take place in September, unfortunately the <rm of architects appointed ceased trading days before inspec2on was to take place. This has delayed the process, and we are looking to appoint an architect very soon. The lack of

16

an architect has also delayed the process of obtaining tenders for necessary renova2on work to the East window.

Fundraising/Social Ac<vi<es

The corona2on of King Charles III was celebrated in Ragdale with a wonderful street party, most of the village came and celebrated, bringing, and sharing food. There was lots of fun with games and races for the children and The Best Crown compe22on admirably judged by Rev. David. The sun shone as we toasted His Majesty in style. The following day many people turned out in the rain to watch the children plant an Oak tree in Ragdale to commemorate the corona2on. This event was followed by coKee and cakes in the church. We have con2nued with the coKee mornings during the year which raise approximately £50 each 2me, although the reason we hold them is to bring people together for two hours, to enjoy coKee, cake and conversa2on.

17

12.0 All Saints, Rotherby

Sue Smith & Lesley Po&er (Churchwardens)

When l started to put this report together l didn’t think there would be much to report as l feel l have not given my all to my du2es this year as Church Warden, but looking through l think it has been another busy year.

This year we have started oKering breakfast before our 10-30 service on the <rst Sunday of the month, this has been fun to take part in we started with bacon cobs but now just serve croissants and toast. This will con2nue while there is an interest from the congrega2on. David Parr has been helping at Services leading us in Medita2on this has been well accepted by everyone he has a real giO for this and calms us all down to start the service.

Several mee2ngs have been held through the year in the Upper Wreake regarding Minster Communi2es which Sue and Lesley have a8ended this is slow moving but looks like we are joining in with Syston and surrounding Churches, possibly Sharing services, giOs of knowledge and Clergy.

Serena Sue and Lesley visited IKEA at No]ngham to purchase items for our new servery we were granted £2000- last year from ‘The Royal Warrant Holders Associa2on’, new crockery, cutlery, utensils have all been stacked away in lovely clean cupboards ready to be shared with the village.

Cream tea’s were held every Sunday in August again, another success. It was good to have our servery in use with hot water also to use the new tables that were purchased, this fundraiser seems to get be8er each year, and we are so grateful to all who help.

We held a pet service in October again, another success. Eve came with her chickens and gave us a short talk of how she looks aOer them also several dogs joined us.

The DCC decorated the Church for our Carol Service, a tree was donated by Jane from Barkby Hall, a friend of Serena’s which stood outside the Church with lights. Mulled wine and mince pies were served before the service, Richard Knox sang a solo for us and this was a8ended by approximately 35 villagers slightly under other years.

The book club seems to have come to an end they used to meet in Church every few weeks, the house group con2nue to meet each week when the weather is not to cold.

The Annual Church walk was cancelled because of wet weather but we received dona2ons.

Fireworks and a bon<re were held again in Gary’s <eld and barn this was well supported and the display was yet again amazing, food was served and although it rained heavy at 2mes it didn’t spoil the spirits of those present.

The Winter warmer due to be held in November was postponed un2l January TwelOh night as it seemed to close to the bon<re.

A concert was held in Church by ‘The Acous2c Duo’ a local group this was a really fun night and enjoyed by all and something we will do again. We were really grateful to them coming as the leader had not been well.

David Seaman visited our Church in the summer along with members of his family, they are descendant of the Seaman family men2oned in our Church and who owned Rotherby Manor

18

adjacent to the Church in around 1720, he has searched the history of the family and wri8en a book. Sue was able to meet up with them and they took photos around the Church and gave us a dona2on of £50- towards Church funds.

Easter cards were sent to all our regular givers to say thank you for their con2nued support.

Our Quinquennial took place this year and men2ons work s2ll needing our a8en2on. Sue and Gary have a copy if anyone would like to look through it.

l just wish we could use the Church facili2es more for the bene<t of socializing in the villagers but it’s always down to the same few people, we really do need some new blood but I’m afraid it’s the same in all the villages.

The church building and graveyard has survived another year with li8le major issue but the following to report:

We had the Quinquennial Inspec2on in early June which was undertaken by John Dodson who is new to our church and replaced Hannah Crawford who has completed the inspec2on for the last three occasions. Unfortunately John made note of us not having an asbestos report or a tree survey in place (neither of which had ever been raised before) and this created some fuss with Rupert Allen at Diocese level. AOer it was pointed out to Rupert that the churchyard does not contain any mature trees under our ownership and that no asbestos is present in the building as de<ned by building works completed over the last 25 years the issue disappeared. The QI inspec2on found a fair amount of woodworm ac2vity to pews and the reardos and it is intended to spray apply a woodworm killer to all internal wooden surfaces shortly.

External stonework decay was also recorded and this really is our next project to tackle, it can be done in stages however we do need to start a campaign of fund raising / grant applica2ons as some parts are looking quite poor now.

The servery extension piece was made and delivered but it is unfortunately too large and is impassible when it is in place. James Troop has stated that he will cut it down however we need to transport it to his workshop.

Three of the Cherry trees have died, most likely as a result of the drought in 2022. We have applied to Melton Borough Council and been granted permission to remove these trees and this will be done over the summer months.

Unfortunately we have a problem with the clock, aOer many years of con2nual service it has decided to stop. Gary has exhausted his knowledge and has contacted Smiths of Derby who are arranging for an engineer to a8end. The cost of a service and inspec2on is £650 and we hope that there is nothing too serious gone wrong.

19

13.0 Bellringers

Mar/n Paling, Tower Captain

In January, spurred on by a wish to 'Ring for the King', to mark the Corona2on of King Charles III on 6 May, 13 people from various local villages asked to learn to ring Church bells. Over several weeks, Mar2n Paling taught each person, using

'The Associa2on of Ringing Teachers' 'Learning the Ropes' programme, to ring full circle, with training sessions at Hoby, Kirby Bellars and Saxelbye. Three of the learners withdrew aOer three lessons each, deciding that Tower bell ringing was not for them, but two of them stayed to join the Handbells Team. In November, another recruit started learning to ring both the Tower bells and Handbells.

By March, the majority of learners were able to handle a bell and rope on their own, so a weekly prac2ce night was re-started, aOer a break of <ve years. This enabled the learners to develop as a band and enhance their new skills to ring bells, which led on to ringing regularly for Church services and other special occasions.

At Hoby on 5 May, all <ve bells were rung prior to the funeral service for Eric Harvey. The bells were rung 'open' (without mu^es), as Eric was a former bellringer at Hoby.

The Corona2on of King Charles III on 6 May was celebrated by ringing at Hoby on the evening of 5 May, when 14 local ringers, including all of the remaining 10 learners, rang Rounds and Changes. Five ringers travelled to Saxelbye on 6 May, to mark the Corona2on. The occasion was marked with similar ringing on all six bells at Kirby on the aOernoon of 7 May, to coincide with the village's Community Lunch event. Several villagers also visited the Tower to chime a bell.

14 May was designated as 'Bell Sunday', to celebrate the Patronal Fes2val of St Dunstan, the Patron Saint of Bellringers. The local band rang the bells at Hoby, Kirby and Saxelbye to mark the occasion.

All <ve bells at Hoby were rung on 25 September, prior to the funeral of Mick Franklin.

The Hoby bells were also rung late on New Year's Eve and again on the following morning, to mark the arrival of 2024; the <rst 2me for many years that the bells have been rung to welcome the New Year.

Belfry cleaning and condi2on of the bell installa2ons:

The Belfry and stairs at Kirby were given a thorough brush down and sweep up of the airborne debris in July by Mar2n Paling and Jonathan Chapman.

Mar2n and Jo Perry brushed and swept the Belfry and stairs at Hoby in August.

The wooden stay to the Treble bell at Kirby has been replaced twice this year and once at Hoby, following breakages, caused mainly by the stay being bumped regularly by several of the new ringers. The stay is a safety measure and is intended to break … we just hope that it doesn't happen too oOen and all ringers know to try to hold the bell, so it stays short of the stay when in mo2on and to rest the bell gently against it when the bell is at rest.

In October, the rope of the Tenor bell at Hoby was found to be badly frayed (possibly due to having been chewed by an animal?). The rope was removed and replaced by a spare rope loaned from Ab

20

Ke8leby Tower, pending repair by splicing in another sec2on of rope.

Ian Stonehouse has taken on the role of Steeple keeper at Hoby.

Taylor's Bellfounders visited Hoby and Kirby Towers in December to inspect the installa2ons. The Engineer has stated that all of the bells in each Tower are safe to be rung, but has pointed out that, at Kirby, some minor repairs may become necessary to the Treble and No.3 bells due to wear and tear. The Headstock of No.5 bell and the Tenor (No.6) bell pulley box show signs of woodworm (likely inac2ve). This will need to be monitored regularly and replaced as necessary in due course. The engineer indicates a likely need to replace the No.5 Headstock with a metal one when the current wooden one causes the bell to become loose. The problem is not urgent and replacement could well be several years away. The current likely cost of such work would be approx. £2,500.

Ven<la<on in the Ringing Room at Kirby Bellars

Installa2on of two opening windows into the Ringing Room at Kirby, to provide ven2la2on with a free Mow of fresh air direct from an external source, has not yet taken place.

An applica2on for a Faculty to do the work has been delayed, awai2ng a recommenda2on and guidance from the Church's Architect. However, the previous Architect's business went into liquida2on before we could obtain the necessary input. We await the appointment of another Architect, in order to sa2sfy the requirements of the Faculty applica2on.

In the mean2me, most ringers con2nue to wear a face mask while in the Ringing Room, although this is leO to personal choice.

Handbells

The Handbell ringers con2nued to ring regularly during the year, playing old favourite tunes and also building on the repertoire. On 23 February, they provided background entertainment during a CoKee Morning at Kirby Church, held to mark the <rst Anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and to raise funds for the Disasters Emergency Commi8ee to provide help to the displaced people of Ukraine.

Leanne Chidlow joined the Band in February and Judy Marsh in March. The Team marked the King's Corona2on in May by ringing 'The Na2onal Anthem' and 'Rule Britannia', together with other tunes from the Handbells repertoire.

The Handbells from Hoby and Kirby were made available when The MADCOWS (Melton and District Company of Women) visited Kirby in June, to have a go at ringing a range of tunes. The Group also enjoyed the opportunity to chime the Tower bells.

Graham Porter kindly gave Handbells from Hoby a thorough overhaul to make them strike more freely, as the clappers had become s2K to move, probably due to lack of regular use.

The Ringers also performed for Melton Ladies Rotary Club in November and in December at the Carol Services for the WI at Burton Lazars and on Christmas Eve at Kirby Bellars.

21

14.0 Deanery Synod

Five gatherings took place, open to anyone who wanted to a8end, along with a pre-Advent Retreat. Refreshments served typically at 7pm, business concluding by 9pm. All mee2ngs were in person.

Thursday 2[nd] March (Melton St.Mary’s) Finance Focus Jonathan Kerry, David Palmer, Simon Wilson Sat 4[th] & Sun 5[th] March (various Parishes) Lent Prayer Pilgrimage Bishop Martyn Wednesday 24[th] May (Asfordby All Saints) Deanery Welcome Bishop Saju Thursday 28[th] June (Gaddesby St.Luke’s, w. Greater Chapter) Wellbeing in Ministry Claire Wood, Archdeacon of Loughborough Thursday 31[st] August (Bo8esford St.Mary’s, w. Greater Chapter) Youth Engagement Ma< Long, Intergenera'onal Communi'es Enabler Wednesday 29[th] November (Launde Abbey) Pre-Advent Quiet Day led by Launde Chaplain

- - - - -

Shaped by God Together : Minster Communi<es

This ini2a2ve, which began in 2019, launched in Framland and part-Goscote Deaneries in April 2023. The journey so far has, in essence, more than doubled the number of Deanery Mee2ngs, crea2ng on the whole uncertainty and mistrust. Gatherings occurred in the following way, approximately :-

22

Financial Report 2023

The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts The Parish of the Upper Wreake Consolidated Accounts
Receipts and Payments for the Year ended 31 December 2023
and the Statement of Assets at 31 December 2023
DCC
Brooksby Frisby Hoby Kirby Ragdale Rotherby DCC 2022
RECEIPTS 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 Total
Fund Raising
Wedding and Funeral Fees
Donations
Collections
Sundry
Grants
VAT
Interest
Planned (Regular) Giving
Income Tax Recovered (Gift Aid)
Donated Collections
CCLA Transfer		 819.00
1983.00
781.46
1550.47
676.53
570.00
61.62
655.00
4277.11		 536.71
4538.46
859.62
1871.33
7297.71
8815.00		 11086.97
855.00
2277.45
487.20
253.86
350.00
1044.14
7760.00
2360.98
1157.00		 4845.67
330.00
1720.00
917.30
4200.00
2247.96		 338.00
920.00
1630.10
445.30
70.86
3485.00
433.30		 2001.56
943.00
1593.01
302.80
150.00
1593.02
3448.63
3660.00
1286.90
337.50		 19,627.91
9,569.46
8,861.64
5,574.40
5,280.39
2,513.02
3,448.63
1,176.62
25,105.67
7,924.99
1,927.80
8,815.00		 15,737.67
8,953.83
12,886.99
7,540.98
24,023.16
29,238.35
0.00
149.33
26,782.67
9,173.56
120.50
0.00
Total Receipts 11,374.19 23,918.83 27,632.60 14,260.93 7,322.56 15,316.42 99,825.53 134,607.04
PAYMENTS
Parish Contribution (Diocese)
Cluster Levy (SWF)
Organ Tuning and Repairs
Power, Rates etc
Fees paid
Donations etc
Church Insurance Premium
Maintenance Church yard
Sundry
Maintenance
Building Repairs/Alarms
Major Building Works
Professional Fees		 1752.00
144.00
308.27
555.00
977.50
2176.08
114.00
349.44
3420.00		 6825.00
1509.00
218.43
624.11
235.40
339.00
2490.79
3724.94
168.00
12155.08		 2300.00
888.00
545.85
329.00
1157.00
3846.99
730.00
1692.55
4876.48		 700.00
1100.00
882.45
25.00
3678.98
710.00
1828.10
4592.09		 1560.00
361.00
1707.07
111.18
488.20
1315.54
1440.00
60.00
821.40		 2376.00
432.00
341.52
561.00
2744.60
1555.18
1590.80
720.00
5379.07		 15,513.00
4,434.00
218.43
4,409.27
1,255.58
3,522.70
16,252.98
4,435.18
9,010.39
10,706.01
821.40
20,954.15
0.00		 16,127.00
6,145.00
1,692.00
2,739.36
1,230.56
4,605.92
15,010.77
1,795.00
13,961.80
38,430.83
703.20
92,010.97
0.00
CCLA Transfer 0.00 0.00
Total Payments 9796.29 28289.75 16365.87 13516.62 7864.39 15700.17 91,533.09 194,452.41
Movement in Funds CURRENT 1,577.90 -4,370.92 11,266.73 744.31 -541.83 -383.75 8,292.44 -59,845.37
Movement in ADDITIONAL Funds/ Accounts -4,461.14 773.18 192.21
e.g. Deposit/ Fabric/ Bell/ CCLA
Balance at start of year 6,166.06 55,392.61 49,295.93 28,095.14 15,345.76 13,158.64 167,454.14 227,107.30
Statement of Assets at 31 Dec'r 2023 7,743.96 46,560.55 60,562.66 29,612.63 14,803.93 12,774.89 175,746.58 167,454.14
Balance carried forward; all held in High Street
Bank Current or Deposit Accounts

david harknett

Rev'd David HARKNETT

Priest in Charge and Trustee

Independent Examiner’s Report

  1. The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts, as presented above. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) or the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and that an independent examination is needed.

  2. It is my responsibility to:

  3. 2.1. examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,

  4. 2.2. to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under sec. 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act, and

  5. 2.3. to state whether particular matters have come to my attention

  6. My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

  7. In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention

  8. 4.1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect, the requirements:

  9. 4.1.1. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; and

  10. 4.1.2. To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act have not been met;

  11. 4.2 or to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed Date

16[th] April 2024

Tom Barkley