All Saints, Lydd with St Peter’s , Greatstone Annual Report and Statement of Accounts of the Parochial Church Council
For the Year ending 31[st] December 2025
Notice is given that the Annual vestry Meeting and the Annual Parochial Church Meeting and PCC meeting will take place on 10[th] May 2026 after Morning service at Ast. Peter’s Chuch, Greatstone
AGENDA
1. Opening Worship
-
Annual Vestry Meeting – Election of Church Wardens
-
Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting
-
Apologies
-
Minutes of the 2025 Vestry and Parochial Council Meeting
-
Matters arising from those minutes
-
Receipt of Electoral Roll
-
Election of Deputy Church Wardens
-
Election of Deanery synod Representative
-
Election of PCC members
-
Election of Readers to the PCC
-
Election of Auditor
-
Election of Sidespersons
-
Treasurer’s report and Presentation of Accounts
15. Presentation of Annual Report
-
Deanery Synod Report
-
Any Other Business
-
Date of next APCM
-
Closing Prayer
20. PCC meeting
- Appointment of PCC Secretary
22. Election of Treasurer
-
Appointment of Standing Committee members
-
Future PCC dates
The parish of All Saints, Lydd with St. Peter’s, Greatstone serves the communities of Lydd, Greatstone, Lydd on Sea and Dungeness. It is part of the Romney Marsh Benefice, located in the Marsh Deanery, and part of the Anglican Diocese of Canterbury.
The correspondence address is: The Vicarage, North Street, New Romney, TN28 8DR The parish website is www.western-marsh-churches.co.uk
The Parochial Church Council is a charity registered with the Charities Commission (reg. No.1146683) CCL licence 87558 (All Saints) and 655313 (St Peter’s)
PCC Members who have served for the year covered by this report:
Revd Chris Hodgkins Rector Revd Jack Greenhalf Team Minister Les Carter Reader June Noakes Reader Mike Botten PCC Secretary Pat Carter Church Warden + Safeguarding Officer Chris Aubrey Church Warden (until Jan 2026) + Electoral Roll Officer Colin Fowle Deputy Warden (From April 14[th] ) Joe Butterworth PCC Treasurer + Gift Aid Secretary Sandra Ellis ALM + Deanery Synod Representative Des Ellis ALM
Elected Members (6 are permitted)
Margaret Mace Jean Moon Ian Shoebridge
Bank Account: Lloyds New Romney. Sort Code: 30-90-28, Account no. 01406745
independent Examiner
Structure, Governance and Management
The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. Members may serve for 3 years and retire in rotation. At least one third of elected PCC members are required to be regular worshippers at All Saints and one third at St Peter’s. All church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.
Objectives
The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the wardens and the Vicar, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastorally, evangelistically, socially and ecumenically. It also has the responsibility for the maintenance of churches and church hall buildings at Lydd and Greatstone.
The Church of England in Lydd, Greatstone and Dungeness worships God revealed to us in Jesus Christ. We welcome all who seek God regardless of race, age, gender or sexual orientation. We affirm that the Church’s mission, in obedience to Holy Scripture, is to proclaim the unfailing love of God in every generation. We are two churches in a team of fourteen churches in the Romney Marsh Benefice serving our community through prayer and friendship.
Standing Committee
Vicar, Wardens and deputy wardens and treasurer. This is the only committee required by law. It has the power to transact business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the church Council.
All Saints Lydd with St. Peter’s Greatsone
APCM 11[th] May 2025
Present: as above.
Apologies: as above.
Minutes: the minutes of the 2024 APCM were accepted and a copy signed by the chairman.
Matters Arising: there were no matters arising from the minute, but Revd. Jack thanked those present for their prayers in the weeks prior to his arrival in the parish.
Receipt of Electoral Roll: the electoral roll was renewed this year . The number of people on the roll is 48, down from last year, which was 86. It’s likely, despite our best efforts, that some people have been missed and that the numbers will recover slightly during the coming year.
Election of Deputy churchwardens. Colin Fowle was elected unanimously as deputy churchwarden and Jean Moon has offered to share the burden as and when necessary.
Election of Deanery Synod representative: Sandra Ellis is currently on the deanery synod and continues to serve as our representative. There is a vacancy for another representative if anyone feels they would like to fulfil that role.
Election of PCC Members: there are six places available. Mike Botten, Margaret Mace, Ian Shoebridge and Jean Moon were elected. Others can be co-opted in due course if necessary.
Election of Readers to the PCC: June Noakes and Les Carter were elected.
Election of Auditor: Charlotte Watkinson was proposed by Les Carter, seconded by Revd. Jack and elected.
Election of Sidespersons: Barbara Woodward, Pat Carter, Sheila Rabbett, Vicki Dawson, Chris Aubrey, Yvonne Shoebridge, and David Newgrosh (All Saints) and Carol Comber, Val Blanchard and Margaret Mace (St. Peter’s) were elected.
Treasurers report and presentation of Accounts: Joe produced a report and the accounts and pointed out that the bedrock of our income was from our own giving, and that we all need to constantly review the amounts we are able to give. We were close to breaking even overall, but ended the year with a small deficit.
Mike Botten proposed a vote of thanks to Joe for all his efforts once again (carried) and reminded the meeting that we need to urgently seek a replacement for Joe, as he is keen to retire from the treasurer role.
Deanery Synod Report: Sandra produced a comprehensive report which focussed on the bold outcome for the current year, which is ‘planning for revitalisation’.
Any Other Business: Ian thanked Revd. Jack for his regular presence at foodbank.
Date of next APCM: 10[th] May 2026, at St. Peter’s, following a joint service.
All Saints Lydd with St Peter’s Greatstone
Report for 2025
Electoral Roll: stands at 48
PCC Report
In addition to the APCM the Parochial Church Council met on 5 occasions, in June, September, November, February and April. Membership: Incumbent, Wardens and deputy wardens, Treasurer, Readers and ALM’s, 2 members of St Peter’s congregation, 2 members of All Saints congregation, Deanery Synod Rep, Secretary.
Each meeting starts with a Bible reading and prayer, Minutes of the previous meeting are examined and matters arising from them are dealt with. The Ministry report is usually given by the incumbent and helps see a Marsh-wide perspective of church activity. David has worked hard yet again this year, as administrator as well as Web master and additional priest. Rev. Jack Greenhalf joined the Benefice in April and is working really well in the local community and beyond.
Wardens and Deputies reported on their buildings and activities. Both churches had various issues, with minor vandalism, clock problems electrical work and occasional leaks.
The committee examines past events and reports on what has worked and what could be done differently. All Saints concerts, Christingle and remembrance services remain popular. St Peter’s breakfasts and All Saints lunches are also very popular and the Sunday congregations remain steady.
Health and Safety are examined at each meeting, as is Safeguarding, with meetings and training courses being delivered in a variety of ways.
There is room for more members from each congregation to join the PCC.
Auditor: Charlotte Watkinson examined and approved the accounts.
Sidesmen:
St Peter’s: Carole Comber, Val Blanchard, Margaret Mace, Yvonne Duke
Ministry Report
APCM Rector’s Report 2026
Looking back through 2025 we can see how God is at work within our individual churches, the benefice as a whole and the communities in which we serve. The decision was made to discontinue our 5[th] Sunday Benefice services but to leave the 3[rd] Sunday Benefice service as it is. This is due to not having enough ministers to cover all the services on the rota but more excitingly the attendance and feel of our benefice services. We have had some excellent services over the last year with good speakers coming to talk about various topics and projects that have inspired many of our church members. Although most churches attend these services there are still some who only attend when benefice services are held in their church.
Our treasurers, Church Wardens and Ministry Leadership Team meetings continued to be held throughout the year and continue to be both useful and encouraging. The aim of these meetings is to bring various groups together to share news of what is happening across the benefice and to provide space for listening as well as speaking. Our Anna Chaplaincy, led by Helen Sanderson, has grown and we have a new Anna Chaplain Gaynor Cobb as well as Anna Friends. Ministry in our Care Homes has continues to be fruitful and there is now a hope to train more Anna Friends as the small team grows. My thanks to Helen for this vital ministry and to those who have joined her in this vital pastoral work.
Reverend David Parrott continues to put the rota together we talk regularly meetings and reflect on where the benefice is growing God’s Kingdom. He is a great help to many of us and provides me and Reverend Jack with much needed support and prayer.
The Holy Spirit continues to work in our Schools and with our young people in the benefice with more churches engaging with young people in their parishes. All of our Primary Schools receive regular visits from the church, and our annual Confirmation service for Str Nicholas Primary Academy was held early in the New Year. Sandra Ellis has taken more responsibility for Youth Work in the benefice as our Youth Minister.
Romney Marsh Youth Space is now held at New Romney Community Church with Yrs 5-7 and is currently oversubscribed, an amazing ‘problem’ to have. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Community Church and our small team of volunteers who work with Sandra and I with our young people.
As ever, this is just a flavour of how God is working across the benefice, and I know there are many more local examples of how our churches are engaging with the communities they serve.
Reverend Jack’s ministry is increasing in Lydd with many projects involving those who live on the margins and often in extreme need withing that community.
It was a joy to journey with Penny Lowe as she discerned a call to ordained ministry and then to attend her ordination as Deacon at Canterbury Cathedral. Penny is now the Focal Minister at All Saints, St Mary’s Bay where she has begun Café Church and a Wednesday group looking at various topics around spirituality, prayer and wider biblical studies. The church has a thirst to know more about their faith and Penny is patiently guiding them along a discipleship journey. I look forward to seeing what develops during Penny’s curacy and beyond.
As ever my thanks go to our Church Wardens for their patience and willingness, our PCC’s who manage our churches and keep us all going, our choirs and organists, bell ringers, flower arrangers, cleaners and all who quietly volunteer in whatever capacity in our churches, I couldn’t do my job without you all.
Thank you for all that you continue to do in the life of your churches and the wider benefice.
Chris Hodgkins.
Parochlal Church Councll of All Salnts. Church. Lydd and Sl. Peterfs Church, Greatstone Flnanclal Ststernents fortha Y•¥ Ended 31 Docemb•r 2025 Receipts and Payments kcount TOTAL FUNDS Funds Funds Fund6 2025 2D24 RECEIPTS Vtsluntary F¢ot£ipts'. P18nnd Glvlng Collections al semcès ants lor projects All other voluntwy reIpts 13ift Aid recovered 19,998 11,913 17.983 8.492 7.561 65.947 120 20,118 11,913 17.983 8,492 7,561 86,067 22,22D 10,788 381 7,794 7,845 49,028 120 A¢tivib8s for generating funds 4.855 4,856 5.598 Investment & rent81 Incx)m8 629 90 719 466 Church Actiwties 16.193 2.46B 18,661 17,150 Other Inc*)me'. insurance claim 2,419 2,419 Increax In value of Investment Funds 91 109 Totsl Receipts 91 72 PAYMENTS Church Aclivities Partsh Sh8re Clérgy and staffing casts Church running èxp8nses all running costs MissiC giving Bnd donation5 Church vnajor repaits 33,852 1.583 21.978 10,020 2.663 22.477 92,574 30.249 2.208 24.847 9,17S 4.174 4,474 75.128 53CI 1,se3 21,978 10,020 4.6g8 22.477 94,609 1.790 2,035 2,035 Cost5 of generating funds Total Payments Excoss of Recalpts ov•r Paym•nts Transfer bgtwepn luvds 14,320) 91 1&6861 13,207) 14,3201 643 91 13.5861 13.2071 Cash al bank and in hand at 1 J8nuary 25,731 13.955 3,704 43.39Q 46.597 Cash M bank )nd In haNI 8131 Dee 21,411
Paroehial Churth Councll of All Silnts, Church, Lydd and St. PÈt•es Churth, Gr•atston• Financlal Statemènts for the Year ended 31 Decembèr 2025 Balanc¢ Sheet. notes and flnanclal pollele8 for the Y•Br Ended 31 Dgeèmbgr 202S owm• 025 2D24 urrent Assets Lloyds- Current wnunt Cash on han(1 CBF G ¢1 E Deposit Fund Fixed Interest shares Net Curreni As¥•ts 16.133 370 4,908 11.558 27,691 370 7,948 3,795 39.804 31.698 370 7,618 3,704 43,390 3,040 3,795 3.795 8nin IDSI 13.723 875 14,598 R88triBtsd Funds Jissw)n givirwj and fe86 du8 Tots 13,513 442 13.955 210 2,468 2,03S Notey 1) The 8ndowment rixed intsr88t sharo8 are held as follows:. Anscome general purpose 171 shares Balyour Trust restorallui fund 270 shares Vidler general purpDse 151 shares H J Blacklock organ & choir fund 470 shares E M Gil-Ball¥d general purpose 470 shar8S A Finn organ & choir fund 789 shares Dung8neBg 88nctU8ry 163 sh8r83 281.24 412.48 230.68 718.02 718.02 1.205.36 249.02 £3.794.82 2) (Xher than nsecrated and beneficod property the PCC ¢)wns two church halls, St Péters H811 8nd Hardy Hall with 8 combined value of £780.000 at the last survey undert8ken in 2020 by EcclesiaslicAI Insuranc£ Office plc {ElOI Policia The financi815tatp.ments h2vp. been prepared in aCcdanCe with the 'ACCnting and Reportlng by Charities, Statemont of Recommended Practlce . ResaNes The PCC does not have 8 fomi81 policy cn reserves but currentty holds 8boul six times the average monthly expènditure related to the work of the church in 2025 (oxcluding major repairs). Approved by th8 Parochial Church Council IAGM) 2026 and signed on its behalf by.. Rev. C HoYgllln$ Chairman and Team Rector Mr J Butterworth Hon Treasurer
Treasurer’s Report
Our churches and halls ended 2025 with a deficit of £3,586 on a turnover of £96,000. We were not far from breaking even, but doing so becomes more difficult as costs rise and our income struggles to keep up. Our Parish Share is up this year (2026) by only 1.25%, but this follows a total increase of 29% over the previous two years. I am a member of a working party looking ways of improving the Parish Share system in Canterbury Diocese.
As Treasurer I am grateful for all the time, effort and enthusiasm that goes into our various fund-raising efforts, but the bedrock of our income is the amounts we give to our church, week by week, month by month. Please review, and keep reviewing, those amounts, remember why we’re here and who we’re serving, and our church will not just survive but flourish.
Due to a diary clash I won’t be with you at the APCM on 10 May, but if you have any queries on the accounts or anything to do with church finances, especially if you have time to help or even replace me as Treasurer, do please get in touch with me on 07470 196460, or joebutterworth448@gmail.com
Wardens’ Report for All Saints’ 2025
The opt for a card reader, which was offered at a discount as part of a Diocesan scheme has been in use in All Saints' and continues to produce an income for the church mainly from visitors.
Minor vandalism is still happening occasionally within All Saints', but the incidences are fewer and not too serious. We have taken no action so far, but the footage from the CCTV will greatly assist us to pursue a case against an individual, should we decide to. We are keen to engage with the local youngsters in a positive way, hoping that they will appreciate the building and what it represents, and possibly even take some responsibility for ensuring its future as a community asset. Many youngsters do regularly use the church, either just as a meeting point, or to play games in the children's area now created in the South Chapel area.
We did suffer one serious vandal incident at All Saints' during the year when a large rock was thrown through a window on the south side, and damage to the tiling on the south side of the chancel. Also thought to be caused by stones being thrown. This damage did result in financial loss although partly covered by an insurance claim. This incident was outside the coverage of our CCTV.
The clock once again failed towards the end of the year, and actions are in hand to try and find finance for a repair.
As reported last year, Mike has taken on the role of Musical Director and along with the choir, and Liz as our organist, All Saints' is well blessed with music for our Sunday Worship.
Fr. Jack and Chrissy have established themselves in the community and Chrissy has established a toddler group in the Hardy Hall, which seems to be very popular and is a great help following the closure of the Children's Centre. Fr. Jack has supported the introduction of two groups meeting regularly in the Hardy Hall. One group MILK is a place where parents with children with high demands can meet in a relaxed atmosphere and just talk with others dealing with similar issues. The second group is ROAR which supports recovering addicts.
The local school at Lydd is using the church for its celebration services (Easter, Christmas, end of term etc.) and such services are well attended. We have noted that the attendance of parents at these events has been on the increase.
Special events for the local children, organised by the church, at Christmas and Easter have been well attended.
There have been many events this year – Harvest Supper, May Day, Marsh Choir concerts, Christmas Fayre, Gurkhas and privileged to have a JAM event with The Kings Singers. The building is being used for community events and the reordering of the interior has been an added benefit to making such events easier to manage. As part of the changes the Pulpit was moved back to area adjacent to the Chancel.
There have been special services at Christmas, the civic service, remembrance along with the weddings and funerals that happen throughout the year. The Ukraine soldiers left Lydd earlier in the year, but before leaving they used the church, with their ministers, to worship the Lord. We wish them all the very best for the future. Fr. Jack is both the Chaplain and a crew member for the Dungeness lifeboat service.
The Food Pantry (often known as Food Bank) has now relocated to All Saints’ church every Monday morning, and the church has proved popular as it facilitates social mixing plus room for specialist advisors.
During School Holiday a volunteer from Lydd school collects donated items from New Romney Co-op and brings them into All Saints' every weekday as a support of local families. This service is normally provided at the school during term time and is well used.
There is much work going on, much of it unseen, some with the general upkeep of the buildings and some with our ministry to the people of the parish. There are lots of people involved in the life of our parish and they are far too many to thank individually, but please know that your work is valuable and recognised. Thank you for anything you do, no matter how big or small, in our parish and to the glory of God.
Pat Carter
Deputy Warden Report for St Peter’s, Greatstone.
1. Introduction . The St Peter’s Committee met regularly throughout 2025 to oversee the life, ministry, buildings, and community activities of the church and hall. Meetings were opened with prayer and Scripture, reflecting the committee’s commitment to grounding all decisions in Christian fellowship and service.
2. Worship , Ministry and Pastoral Care . Worship continued steadily, supported by Revd David and the ministry team. A new initiative of member-led services received strong support, with several members willing to participate from August 2025 onwards.
Pastoral concerns were a recurring focus.
Safeguarding policies were reviewed periodically, with some members updating training. No ongoing safeguarding concerns were reported.
3. Buildings and Maintenance. Significant maintenance needs were identified and addressed across the year.
Church.
-
Water ingress was found in the tower under the louvres and across the porch roof; work is ongoing to prevent further damage.
-
Woodworm was detected in the tower.
-
Public internet access in the building remained unreliable and requires follow-up.
Hall
-
Tall blinds repeatedly came loose; the plan is to remove the lower sections and replace them with roller blinds.
-
The hall door handle was unreliable and is being repaired.
-
Carpet tiles are required for the hall/church entrance.
-
The disabled toilet fan failed and they have all been replaced.
-
A handrail for the ladies’ toilet has been fitted.
Grounds
-
The garden continues to be maintained, though weather often limits work.
-
Disabled parking bays needed clearer marking; stencils and paint have been used to mark the bays.
4. Hall Use and Community Groups. Hall bookings remained strong and consistent. The Craft Fair expanded to use both the hall and the church, prompting concerns about chancel use and seasonal decorations.
The Drop-In group experienced very low attendance, possibly due to increased nursery provision for young children.
5. Events and Activities.
Regular Events:
-
Big Breakfasts continued to be a major feature of St Peter’s community outreach, although numbers and income have been dropping lately.
-
Cream Teas in June 2025 were successful and well supported.
Seasonal and Special Events:
-
APCM Lunch was well attended, though delays were noted..
-
Harvest Lunch 2025 was well organised with shared catering responsibilities.
-
Christmas Lunch at The Jolly Fisherman was arranged for mid-December and was enjoyed by all.
Future and Proposed Events:
-
Café Church and an Alpha Course were proposed for PCC consideration.
-
A Carol Service for Christmas 2025 remained undecided.
6. New Ideas and Initiatives.
-
A new year-long Prayer Diary format was proposed, including weekly updates on individuals and local/global issues.
-
Encouraging volunteers from the wider community to support breakfasts, due to the limited ablebodied congregation.
-
A donation box for the defibrillator was suggested
7. Conclusion.
Despite financial pressures and fluctuating attendance at some events, St Peter’s has continued to serve its congregation and community with dedication. The committee has worked diligently to maintain the buildings, support pastoral needs, and sustain a programme of events that reflects the church’s mission of hospitality and care.
The year has shown resilience, creativity, and a strong spirit of service. With ongoing maintenance, new ministry initiatives, and continued community engagement, St Peter’s remains a valued and active presence in Greatstone.
Colin Fowle
Safeguarding
As Safeguarding Officer and Disclosures Officer for the Parish (not including Licensed Ministers), I have kept up to date with the requirements as specified via the Diocese Safeguarding Section and I am pleased to report that where appropriate, people have positively responded to undertaking the necessary training and any necessary disclosure checks. I am confident that we, as a Parish, are compliant with the requirements. However, this is an ongoing task as all training needs to be repeated on a 3-yearly cycle, and also as people undertake new tasks the correct procedures must be followed. Safeguarding Officers at the Diocese remain on hand for any queries. The need for continuous vigilance cannot be understated. The training and clearance checks for Licensed Ministers is the direct responsibility of the Diocese. I regularly take part in on-line meetings as requested by the Diocese.
During the year there was a Data breach at one of the Sub Contractors that deal with disclosure checks. The contact for such work was changed to a different contractor by the Diocese and actions were put in place to limit any damage. No individual problems have been reported to me concerning this incident.
Pat Carter
All Saints' Lunches
The church has been providing lunches once a month since October 2006 to provide people living on their own with a good lunch in company at a reasonable cost. Lunches are provided at both Lydd and Greatstone. These lunches are well-received by many in the community.
At All Saints’, where the lunches take place in the Hardy Hall, we are fortunate to have various helpers from the community who both help with the workload and provide good interactions with those attending. Every lunch starts with a prayer giving thanks to God.
April 2026 Lydd bell ringers annual report for the PCC
Terry Family and ringing:
A bell-shaped plaque has been ordered in recognition of the ringing contribution of Lydia Terry and the Terry family and will be placed on a wall in the ringing room.
Benefice website:
The benefice Lydd ringers page was updated with current information and contacts and matches the current leaflets that we have.
Weddings and funerals:
The Tower Captain met with Rev Hodgkinson and it was agreed that the wedding fees would be £250. This allows eight ringers to be paid £25 each and leaves £50 to be divided between Lydd ringers funds and the KCACR bell restoration fund.
Payments for weddings now go direct into the Lydd bell ringers account.
Lydd has decided not to charge for funeral ringing but will accept a donation for our rope fund.
Publicity:
Posters, Facebook posts and articles in Looker and parish magazine were produced to promote our ringing and tower open days.
Lydd Club Day/Encouraging People into tower:
For Lydd Club Day two tower open days were held, leaflets and posters were distributed and a history of the bells and tower was written. Risk assessments and briefing notes were drawn up for these tower open days and any future ones. A model bell from Brookland was made presentable and was positioned outside the church, though unfortunately it was too fragile to take part in the procession.
CCTV/Videos/Belfry camera:
The church CCTV system was installed and ringers can now see what is happening in the church on the monitor in the ringing room.
Treasurers report:
The Parish treasurer audited the 2024/2025 full year accounts in April 2025, reporting that all was OK.
For 2025/26 a donation of £50 was made to Lydd PCC for the heating. And a donation of half the wedding fees, after ringers have been paid, was made to the KCACR Bell Restoration Fund – with six weddings in 2025/26 this amounted to £132.50.
The Parish treasurer is kindly making an application for us to reclaim the VAT on our bell ropes purchase - potentially £308.
Total income Apr 2025 to end Jan 2026 is £1698.10
Total expenditure Apr 2025 to end Jan 2026 is £2851.22
Full 2025/26 accounts have yet to be completed.
- Steeple keepers report:
There was some damage to the number 5 bell, which was the Sanctus bell, due to chiming from the church lobby. The rope to ring number 5 bell from the lobby was therefore removed. At the
same time the tinkle bell from the lobby to the ringing room was removed as the CCTV can now be used to see what is happening in the church.
New bell ropes were ordered from Ellis Ropes.
Nothing untoward was found at the March 2025 bell check.
In early June a camera was fitted in the Belfry and the cables dropped down so that the bells can be seen on the screen in the ringing room.
At the end of June there was an “emergency call out” as No. 5 bell was making a strange knocking noise. This turned out to be a loose gudgeon cap which was sliding side to side as the bell swung. The two large bolts were tightened up and all seems to be OK. It may partly have been caused by the long dry period of weather and the frame / wood shrinking as several of the bolts on the frame were also found to be loose. - a more recent check has shown it had all tightened up again as everything was now nice and damp!
Early in August a temporary repair was made to no.6 rope. A new tail was spliced on.
At the end of August the stay on No 3. broke. So was replaced. Having had a conversation with Taylor Bells and studying the stays that they manufacture and fit, the replacement stay has been made slimmer than the old one, it also tapers towards the top. The theory is that it will allow more flex, or give, in the stay if it is bumped against the slider, so hopefully will be more resilient - time will tell.
In September a new tail was spliced on no. 5 bell, again a temporary measure whilst we awaited new ropes.
Late October and the stay on No. 2 broke. Again, it was replaced with a slimmer, tapered stay.
Finally in January No.5 Rope decided it had had enough and the sally started to disintegrate, fortunately this was the same week as the new ropes arrived so it was quickly replaced.
Due to personal commitments the scheduled bell check due in September/October was not completed, but during visits to the belfry for other minor issues things were checked over. Whilst replacing the stay on no. 2, it was noticed that the clapper had been brushing against the old defunct hammer. It was temporarily moved clear and removed all together in February 2026.
The new ropes and were installed on 9[th] Feb 2026, bar number 5 bell which was installed earlier. The ropes may need some adjustment as we matched the length/height of the sally/tails to the existing ropes. but as they were very damp the length may need to change. Once everyone is happy the “rough” end of the tails will be finished
Finally, whilst fitting the new ropes in February 2026 the long over-due bell check was completed. Nothing of consequence to report other than a crack just above the sound bow on No. 2. It looks old and looking closely appears to be a casting fault that has not been noticed before. It will be monitored.
Tower Captains report:
During 2025 we rang for all Lydd Sunday Services, with 6 bells minimum throughout the year, and for Brookland monthly evensongs. We rang for 6 weddings, (one of which was at Fairfield) and tolled for 2 funerals. We also rang for The Heron Tower Opening, Lydd Club Day, The Teddy Bear Event as well as Remembrance Sunday, Christingle, Christmas Carols for both Lydd and Fairfield, and rang in the New Year. We submitted our own bear, Bob Minimus wearing a knitted cape and bell, at the Teddy Event.
In September we had an impromptu Open Tower in support of the RMHCT as well as the New Romney band joining forces for a Monday practice. We also had six visiting ringing bands and one visiting ringing family during the year. We hosted the October 2025 KCACR monthly meeting providing refreshments .
Due to our successful Lydd Club Day event and the following Saturday Tower Opening in June a Thursday learners evening practice was introduced. Our Monday night practices have concentrated on call changes and places methods, such as ‘A small cure for the melancholy’…. Or Go Mel, Plain Hunt, All Saints Place Doubles…in preparation for the celebration of our bells centenary, Single Court Minimus and Bob Minimus.
In summary during 2025 :
-
⚫ We have gained four new ringing members. One is now ringing for Sunday services and the others are at the start of their ringing journey.
-
⚫ We have increased the awareness of bell ringing in Lydd and the surrounding areas by holding five Open Tower Events compared to our usual annual Heron Tower Opening.
-
⚫ A camera has been placed in the Belfry allowing the movement of the bells to be seen in the ringing room for visitor interest and teaching.
-
⚫ We have a ringing computer presentation at ground level.
-
⚫ We have a working exhibition bell model that can be used for future promotion events.
-
⚫ We have new ropes for Lydd and new ropes will be arriving for Brookland .
Report on the use of the Hardy Hall, Lydd, 2025-2026
The Hardy Hall continues to be well used by the residents of Lydd from the smallest who attend the ‘Little Marshians’ sessions on a Monday morning to those who attend CARM on a Thursday morning (monthly invoice sent) and the monthly lunches prepared by Pat Carter and her team. Other groups who are new to the Hardy Hall this year are ROAR (Reach Out and Recover Kent) who run support and dance sessions and also a support group (Need Milk) on Monday afternoons for parents of neurodivergent children.
The Marsh Choir became so successful that the Hardy Hall could not accommodate the numbers so (unfortunately for the Hardy Hall) they took the decision to move to larger premises. This was a regular booking, so their funds are missed.
Other regular paying users continuing to use the hall are Technique Soccer School (toddler football – termly invoice sent) on a Wednesday morning in the Autumn and Spring school terms and Emma Lou Dance Troup (cash payment) on a Wednesday afternoon.
The 6Cs craft group are a regular fixture on a Tuesday morning and have increased their donation to the hall heating fund.
There are other ad hoc users of the hall; most often childrens’ birthday parties but also (next week) a ‘Sound Bath’.
St. Peter’s Drop-in Group
The Drop-in group meet on Wednesday mornings in the church hall during school term time from 8.30 – 10.30. It was set up for parents and carers with pre-school children and babies to meet with others in a similar situation. Some still continue to attend after their young ones have started school. Toys, puzzles and books are always available which we try to vary with crafts, colouring and food based activities. No charge is made for attending, most give a small donation that helps cover the cost of refreshments. The group has always has continued to be a friendly, supportive, vital part of outreach to the younger generation in our community
At the start of 2025 we had fairly good attendance with an average for most weeks of 6-8 adults and a similar number of babies and toddlers, always enjoying watching the little ones play with supportive chats over refreshments, crafts and sometimes outside, riding bikes around the garden. We also ended our sessions with rhyme time, singing well known nursery rhymes and songs with actions. The year closed with us learning a new song “We’re on our way to Bethlehem” which we sang at the Christingle service.
Thanks go for the dedication and hard work to Jean Moon and Margaret Mace, with Help from Maggie Smart and Alison Brown who step in to cover holidays and sickness.
After note: The group closed in April 2026 because of low attendance.
St. Peter’s Sunday lunches
The Monthly Sunday lunches for our more elderly and infirm church goers and members of the Pebbles Memory café that meet in our hall, has continued throughout 2025 on the 4th Sunday of each month. The price has remained at £5 each, for this we provide a two course meal with fruit juice, followed by tea and coffee. Two people, Alison Brown and Margaret Mace have alternated responsibility for cooking each month with Rita Butterworth and others providing the desserts. Jean and John Moon and Jack Mace Provide the back-up team, this year joined by Sue Stuart, helping to serve meals and clearing up after.
In December we enjoyed a Christmas Carvery at the Jolly Fisherman, Greatstone. Yet again our thanks go to Mimi, Leigh and their crew, for an excellent meal and their warm welcome.
St. Peter’s garden and grounds
Little has changed in the enclosed area behind the church hall during 2025 it has been kept tidy by Margaret Mace, Jean Moon and some of the Drop-in mums throughout the year. An application for a grant to purchase a storage shed was made to Lydd Town Council, but was unsuccessful, this project has not been pursued. Also the proposed Mosaic of St Peter planned to hang in the garden did not progress at all, hopefully it will not be forgotten.
The area to the left of the church entrance is kept tidy with a regular cut by local gardener.
Chaplain’s Report (Dungeness ‘B’ Chaplaincy)
Les has continued to make regular visits to Dungeness B Power Station as their Chaplain. His visits are generally 2 or 3 times a month. During his visits, Les talks to staff about any issue they wish. The purpose of the Chaplaincy is to provide a visible and available Christian presence in the work environment. Les is well received, and although most of the time is about a presence, trivial discussions and building relationships, various deeper discussions have taken place, and Les judges that a continued presence is valuable and worthwhile. The ‘B’ Station is in a phase of defueling, and some staff are considering how this affects their medium to long-term future.
All Saints Choir
The choir is very excited as it has found a new organist – Liz! Liz really is a Godsend, living in Lydd and a very accomplished musician. Liz hadn’t played regularly in church for some time and is now gaining in confidence every week, having moved from the piano to the organ and become acquainted with its rather unique controls.
We have recruited a new Crucifer, James, and although not a member of the choir, is helpful to us because it means that Mike is free to play the processional/recessional hymns when necessary. James is a very welcome addition to our church family. Holly has taken on an additional role as thurifer when necessary (as well as unwittingly being supervisor to a couple of youngsters occasionally!) and both June and Mike are able to serve and administer the chalice when required. We are constantly striving to improve our musical contribution, introducing new songs and expanding our repertoire not only as a choir, but as a church too.
Mike is playing more confidently on the guitar and the ukulele now, and we are pleased that alongside Liz, who plays the majority of the hymns, we are able to invite Sarah Hazelgrove to play for some special occasions, such as our community carol service. Holly also plays ukulele and we therefore hope to see her play more often.
Our numbers remain steady, with members turning up to practice sessions and services as and when their work or personal situations allow. Having held our practice sessions at Helen’s house in order to accommodate her caring responsibilities, we are pleased now, to be able to practice at Liz’s house. We look forward to the day when Helen is able to re-join our choir – she is missed. The church is simply too cold in the winter months for effective choir practice and so we are grateful that we can be accommodated elsewhere.
Mike writes the hymn lists, by and large, using established resources to match the hymns to the lectionary, and tries hard to include both the older and much loved traditional hymns alongside more modern worship songs. There is a good deal of thought and planning involved in creating the hymn lists – it’s not as simple or random as it may sometimes seem!
We are currently in the process of trying to find funding for new robes and to continue to try to lead and inspire our congregation in their musical worship of Jesus Christ. Musical hiccups remain an irregular feature of our worship and have done for some considerable time, and, whilst we try not to screw things up, we still do - occasionally. The wonderful thing is that the general opinion is that it’s part of our ‘normal’ at Lydd and such occasions usually raise a wry smile!
New musicians and singers are always welcome!
Romney Deanery Synod Meetings Annual Report 2025-2026
1. Key Appointments & Leadership Changes
New Lay Chair: Phil Bowman (St Mary’s Bay) was elected as the new Lay Chair on 26 November 2025. Vacancies: As of the end of 2025, a Treasurer is still required to assist with funding issues related to Parish and Deanery Plans.
Ordination: Penny Lowe (former Lay Chair) was ordained on 28 June 2025 at Canterbury Cathedral.
2. Strategic Framework: Rural Mission and Ministry (2025–2030)
Neville Emslie presented the draft strategy "Changed Lives – Changing Lives," focusing on the unique context of rural East and Mid Kent.
Core Objectives:
Leadership: Transitioning from lone clergy to local ministry teams (ordained, lay, focal, and pioneer ministers).
Connecting Hubs: Establishing physical and digital "Rural Connecting Hubs" to share resources and celebrate "Good News" stories.
Community Engagement: Reaching out to "New Rural" residents (incomers), GTR (Gypsy, Traveller, Roma) communities, and seasonal workers.
Environmental Stewardship: Encouraging churches to achieve Eco Church status and utilize churchyards for biodiversity.
Youth & Schools: Strengthening church-school links and exploring worship within schools.
3. Communications & Digital Engagement
Charlie Gurr (Diocesan Senior Communications Officer) provided training on modernising church outreach:
Social Media: Advice on using Facebook (public pages), Instagram (visuals), and TikTok (short "hook" videos for under-34s).
Tools: Recommendations for using Canva (free for non-profits) for posters and Mailchimp for newsletters.
A Church Near You: Emphasis on keeping church pages current, as this is a primary gateway for the public.
AI & Admin: Mention of using CoPilot and AI to streamline administrative tasks like minute-taking and email management.
4. Financial Updates
Parish Share: Revd Chris Hodgkins advised that the Parish Share would rise by 1.25% and remain stable for the year.
Deanery Plans: All Parish Plans and "Bishop’s 3 Things" must be submitted to Colin Evans at Diocesan House by 31 December 2025.
5. Future Opportunities & Events
Leading Your Church into Growth (LYCiG): Next courses are scheduled for 15 & 16 June 2026. Teams (ideally including the incumbent) are encouraged to join the waiting list via Sarah Lucas (SLucas@diocant.org).
Workshops: Charlie Gurr offered tailored drop-in workshops for digital training (laptops/tablets).
Grants: A future Synod session was suggested to focus specifically on grant applications.
| Receipts and PaymentsAccount | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTALFUNDS | |||||
| Unre3trictedRcstrictd FundsFunds €e |
Endowment Funds € |
2025 e€ |
2024 | ||
| RECEIPTS | |||||
| Voluntary Receipts: | |||||
| Plannedciving | 19,998 | 120 | 20,118 | ||
| Collectionsatservices | 11,913 | 1 1,913 | 10,788 | ||
| Grantsforproiects | '17,983 | 17,983 | 381 | ||
| All other voluntary receipts | 4,492 | 8,492 | 7,794 | ||
| Gift Aid recovered | 7,561 | 7,561 | 7,845 | ||
| 65,947 | 120 | 0 | 66,067 | 49,O28 | |
| Activities for generating funds | 4,856 | 4,856 | 5,698 | ||
| lnvestment & rental income | 629 | 90 | 719 | 466 | |
| ChurchActivities | 16,193 | 2,468 | 18,661 | 17,',t50 | |
| Otherlncome:insurance claim | 2,419 | 2,419 | 0 | ||
| lncrease in valueof lnvestmentFunds | 91 | ol | 109 | ||
| Total Receipts | 90,044 | 2,678 | 91 | 92,813 | 72,451 |
| PAYMENTS | |||||
| ChurchActivities | |||||
| Parish Share | 33,852 | 33,852 | 30,249 | ||
| Clergy and staffing costs | 'I,583 | 1,583 | 2,208 | ||
| Church running expenses | 21,978 | 21,578 | 24,847 | ||
| Hall running costs | 10,020 | 10,020 | 9,176 | ||
| Mission giving and donations | 2,663 | 2,O35 | 4,698 | 4,174 | |
| Church maior repairs | 22,477 | 22,477 | 4,474 | ||
| 92,574 | 2,035 | 0 | 94,609 | 75,128 | |
| Costsofgenerating funds | 790 | 1,790 | 530 | ||
| TotalPayments | 94,364 | 2,035 | 0 | 96,399 | 75,658 |
| Excessof Receipls overPayments | (4,320) | 643 | 91 | (3,586) | (3,2o71 |
| Transfer betweenfunds | 0 | 0 | |||
| (4,320) | 643 | (3,586) | (3.207) | ||
| Cashatbank and in handat1January | 25,731 | 13,955 | 3,704 | 43,390 | 46,597 |
| Cash at bank andinhand at31Dec | 21,411 | 't4,598 | 3,795 | 39,804 | 43,390 |
| MonetarvFunds | General | Restricted | Restricted | Endowment | 2025 | ?44 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | I | e | e | f | |||
| Current Assets | |||||||
| Lloyds - Currentaccount | 16,133 | '11,558 | 27,691 | 31,698 | |||
| Cashonhand | 370 | 370 | 370 | ||||
| CBF CofEDeposit Fund | 4,908 | 3,040 | 7,948 | 7,618 | |||
| Fixed interest shares Net CurrentAssets |
2't,411 | 14E88 | 3,795 3,795 |
3,795 39,804 |
3,704 43,390 |
||
| Restricted Funds | |||||||
| Openino | Recsived | Paid | Closino | ||||
| Restrict6d Funds | 13,5'13 | 210 | 0 | ||||
| Mission giving and feesdue | 442 | 2,468 | 2,035 | 875 | |||
| Total | 13,955 | 2,678 | 2,035 | 14,598 |
| Notes | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1)The endowmentlixedinterest sharas are hold asfollowsi | ||
| Anscome general purpose 171 shares | 261.24 | |
| Balfour Trust restoration fund 270 shares | 412.48 | |
| Vidlergeneral purpose 151 shares | 230.68 | |
| HJ Blacklock organ & choir fund470shares | 7't8.02 | |
| EMGill-Ballard general purpose 470shares | 718.02 | |
| A Finn organ & choir fund 789 shares | 1,205.36 | |
| Dungenesssanctuary'l63 shares | 249.02 | ---___*f%E |
| Receipts and PaymentsAccount | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTALFUNDS | |||||
| Unre3trictedRcstrictd FundsFunds €e |
Endowment Funds € |
2025 e€ |
2024 | ||
| RECEIPTS | |||||
| Voluntary Receipts: | |||||
| Plannedciving | 19,998 | 120 | 20,118 | ||
| Collectionsatservices | 11,913 | 1 1,913 | 10,788 | ||
| Grantsforproiects | '17,983 | 17,983 | 381 | ||
| All other voluntary receipts | 4,492 | 8,492 | 7,794 | ||
| Gift Aid recovered | 7,561 | 7,561 | 7,845 | ||
| 65,947 | 120 | 0 | 66,067 | 49,O28 | |
| Activities for generating funds | 4,856 | 4,856 | 5,698 | ||
| lnvestment & rental income | 629 | 90 | 719 | 466 | |
| ChurchActivities | 16,193 | 2,468 | 18,661 | 17,',t50 | |
| Otherlncome:insurance claim | 2,419 | 2,419 | 0 | ||
| lncrease in valueof lnvestmentFunds | 91 | ol | 109 | ||
| Total Receipts | 90,044 | 2,678 | 91 | 92,813 | 72,451 |
| PAYMENTS | |||||
| ChurchActivities | |||||
| Parish Share | 33,852 | 33,852 | 30,249 | ||
| Clergy and staffing costs | 'I,583 | 1,583 | 2,208 | ||
| Church running expenses | 21,978 | 21,578 | 24,847 | ||
| Hall running costs | 10,020 | 10,020 | 9,176 | ||
| Mission giving and donations | 2,663 | 2,O35 | 4,698 | 4,174 | |
| Church maior repairs | 22,477 | 22,477 | 4,474 | ||
| 92,574 | 2,035 | 0 | 94,609 | 75,128 | |
| Costsofgenerating funds | 790 | 1,790 | 530 | ||
| TotalPayments | 94,364 | 2,035 | 0 | 96,399 | 75,658 |
| Excessof Receipls overPayments | (4,320) | 643 | 91 | (3,586) | (3,2o71 |
| Transfer betweenfunds | 0 | 0 | |||
| (4,320) | 643 | (3,586) | (3.207) | ||
| Cashatbank and in handat1January | 25,731 | 13,955 | 3,704 | 43,390 | 46,597 |
| Cash at bank andinhand at31Dec | 21,411 | 't4,598 | 3,795 | 39,804 | 43,390 |
| MonetarvFunds | General | Restricted | Restricted | Endowment | 2025 | ?44 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | I | e | e | f | |||
| Current Assets | |||||||
| Lloyds - Currentaccount | 16,133 | '11,558 | 27,691 | 31,698 | |||
| Cashonhand | 370 | 370 | 370 | ||||
| CBF CofEDeposit Fund | 4,908 | 3,040 | 7,948 | 7,618 | |||
| Fixed interest shares Net CurrentAssets |
2't,411 | 14E88 | 3,795 3,795 |
3,795 39,804 |
3,704 43,390 |
||
| Restricted Funds | |||||||
| Openino | Recsived | Paid | Closino | ||||
| Restrict6d Funds | 13,5'13 | 210 | 0 | ||||
| Mission giving and feesdue | 442 | 2,468 | 2,035 | 875 | |||
| Total | 13,955 | 2,678 | 2,035 | 14,598 |
| Notes | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1)The endowmentlixedinterest sharas are hold asfollowsi | ||
| Anscome general purpose 171 shares | 261.24 | |
| Balfour Trust restoration fund 270 shares | 412.48 | |
| Vidlergeneral purpose 151 shares | 230.68 | |
| HJ Blacklock organ & choir fund470shares | 7't8.02 | |
| EMGill-Ballard general purpose 470shares | 718.02 | |
| A Finn organ & choir fund 789 shares | 1,205.36 | |
| Dungenesssanctuary'l63 shares | 249.02 | ---___*f%E |