OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator. This document is also available as Markdown.

← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St Dunstan, Monks Risborough

2024-12-31-accounts

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST DUNSTAN, MONKS RISBOROUGH

Annual Report of the Parochial Church Council for the year ended 31[st] December 2024

Registered charity number: 1153849

Annual Report for APCM 2025 to be received by the PCC and Independent Examiner

Aim and purposes

The PCC has the responsibility to promote, both in the parish and throughout the Risborough Team, the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England, and to co-operate with the minister in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It has responsibility for the maintenance of St Dunstan's

Church, the church hall and churchyard, and the Chapel of Ease of St Peter at Owlswick. It must also ensure that appropriate safeguarding and health and safety procedures are in place. The Team Vicar is commissioned to minister both within the parish, and throughout the Risborough Team.

Objectives and Activities

Throughout 2024, we offered worship, ran community groups, and held events which continued to strengthen the life of the church in the midst of the community that we serve.

The Eucharist is our central act of worship, with full use made of the seasonal range of liturgical material for Holy Communion from Common Worship (CW) produced by The Church of England. Services of Holy Communion and Evensong according to the Book of Common Prayer (BCP) also form a core part of the life of the worshipping community.

The pattern of services typically follows this pattern (all services are at St Dunstan’s unless specified):

First Sunday of the month: 8am BCP Holy Communion 10am CW All-Age Holy Communion 3pm (Winter) / 6pm (Summer) BCP Evensong Second Sunday of the month: 9am BCP Holy Communion (St Peter’s Owlswick) 10am CW Holy Communion 3pm (Winter) / 6pm (Summer) BCP Evensong Third & Fifth Sunday of the month: 10am CW Holy Communion 3pm (Winter) / 6pm (Summer) BCP Evensong Fourth Sunday of the month: 10am CW Holy Communion 3pm (Winter) / 6pm (Summer) BCP Evensong (St Peter’s Owlswick)

Additional services are held for the major feasts of the Church year.

Activities such as the Fellowship Group, Friendship Group, and the Lunch Club enable the church to provide a pastoral presence for the local community.

The PCC aims to donate ten percent of its income to charitable causes. The financial viability of this is discussed in the context of the PCC’s finances towards the end of the year, and then a proposal is made and voted on regarding how much and to whom the PCC should donate.

Achievements and Performance

Attendance at both Sunday and midweek services was encouraging throughout the year. The month of October – commonly taken to be a good barometer for church attendance – saw an average of attendance of 78 adults and 8 children across the various Sunday services, with nine people on average attending the midweek Eucharist.

We welcomed both regular and occasional worshippers to services at our major festivals. In March, 132 people attended either the Easter Vigil or one of the Easter Day services at St Dunstan’s, with 115 people receiving Holy Communion. At Christmas, 484 people attended worship across our five services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with 95 people receiving Holy Communion. A particular highlight was the Village Carols service, which saw 205 people attend, most of whom are

not regular worshippers at St Dunstan’s. A further 88 people attended Nine Lessons and Carols at St Dunstan’s on the fourth Sunday of Advent, and St Peter’s Chapel welcomed much of the Owlswick community for the carol service there earlier on the same day.

During the year seven children were baptized; we held three marriages; we held seven funerals in St Dunstan’s Church (one of which was followed immediately by a burial in the churchyard) and our ministers conducted a further eleven at crematoria; there were a further twelve burial or intermentonly services in the churchyard, and five memorial services were held in St Dunstan’s (three of which followed services conducted by our ministers at a crematorium, and one of which included one of the interments referred to above).

Groups such as the 10 O’clock Club (Sunday School) and the Lunch Club continued their activities, bringing in both junior and senior members of the community. St Dunstan’s church was successfully used as a venue for Bucks Art Week, as it has done for many years, and was the setting for a number of concerts which were well-received.

The season of Advent brought with it the Advent Craft Fair and the Chinnor Silver Band Concert, two events that bring a significant number of people into St Dunstan’s who would not normally be there.

Financial Review

The church’s total income this year was £122,310, whilst our total expenditure was £109,516 such that we recorded a net surplus for the year of £12,794. The income and expenditure for this year show, and for 2023 have been restated to show, only those fees due to the church and not those passed on to third parties (see note 1). Our income was lower than last year’s by £2,168 and our expenditure lower by £9,978 when last year’s figures are restated on this basis.

As in previous years, the largest single element of our income came from parishioners’ donations, much of which was gift aided. Reflecting in part the 9% drop in electoral roll, our overall income from regular donations was nevertheless some 5% lower than last year’s. Furthermore, this year we returned to the normal state of receiving gift aid on one year’s donations such that the total gift aid received was over £12,000 less than in 2023. The net effect was for recurring income to be £15,800 lower than last year. We received two legacies, one restricted to repair and maintenance of St Peter’s chapel and the other following discussion with the family of the donor has been designated to the church’s work with young people. Together with a generous donation to the organ fund these contributed £10,000 in total, reducing the drop in voluntary income to less than £5,700.

This drop in income was offset by increases in funds raised through church activities, interest income and other cash receipts.

The church’s various fund-raising activities again made a significant contribution to our income, raising £22,200 in total, over £2,000 more than last year, for which thanks go to all involved whether organising or participating in these events.

This year we again paid our full parish share contribution to the Diocese. The church gave 10% of its net free income which equated to £11,200 to 7 charities.

Repair and maintenance costs were some £6,000 less than last year, representing much of the fall in expenditure from last year to this. The long-anticipated repairs to St Peter’s chapel were close to completion at the year end and their cost, around £9,000, will be met in 2025. The heating and

lighting costs were down for the year as we received a rebate for the incorrect charging of the climate change levy and full rate VAT which had been made for some of this year and last year.

It would be prudent not to expect to receive legacies or one-off donations in 2025 equivalent to those received in 2024. Together with the cost of the work at St Peter’s, this raises the potential of a small deficit in 2025, which the PCC will be working to find ways to reverse.

Simon Merchant retired from the PCC during this year. Many thanks go to Simon for the help he gave both the former treasurer and me with the preparation of annual accounts and financial reviews.

Reserves Policy

The Reserves Policy is that the church should maintain sufficient net free reserves, that is neither restricted nor designated funds, to cover at least 3 months’ expenditure on normal running costs as well as any forecast expenditure on committed capital projects.

At the end of 2024, free reserves stood at £38,769. Three months’ normal running costs amount to around £28,000. The bulk of the cost of repairs to St Peter’s chapel will be met from funds restricted to repair and maintenance of the chapel’s fabric, with the balance coming from our designated fabric fund. Other essential repair and maintenance work foreseen in 2025, consisting of safety related work on trees in the churchyard and replacement of a church hall window, is estimated to cost less than £1,200. On that basis, I am happy to report that our reserves remain compliant with the Reserves Policy.

Organ Fund

Investigations continue into the best way forward with the organ at St Dunstan’s. The costs of all options identified to date are estimated to exceed the level we could reasonably meet from reserves and from funds restricted or designated to the organ. A significant fund-raising campaign therefore looks likely.

David Curry

Plans for the Future

A glimpse of plans for 2025 include:

Structure, Governance and Management

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a corporate body established by the Church of England and operating under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a charity registered under the full title of THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST DUNSTAN, MONKS RISBOROUGH (No 1153869). Members of the PCC are the trustees of the charity. The PCC met for seven full meetings during the year.

The method and appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. The Team Vicar, Assistant Curate and Churchwardens are ex officio members of the PCC.

Meetings are occasionally preceded by a Standing Committee meeting, with the Standing Committee having the power to transact the business of the PCC between PCC meetings, subject to any directions given by the PCC, and to undergo preparatory work on behalf of the PCC ahead of full Council meetings. The Standing Committee comprises the Team Vicar, Assistant Curate, Churchwardens, Treasurer, and PCC Secretary.

Composition

During 2024, the following served as members of the PCC:

Team Vicar: Peter Godden (Chairman)
Assistant Curate: Sally Prendergast
Churchwardens: Sue Ingram (Vice-chairman)
Paul Woodward-Court
Elected Members: David Curry (Treasurer)
Jane Curry (Deanery Synod representative)
Charlie Fairall
Ted Kent (Deanery Synod Representative) (from March APCM)
Anne-Marie Longshaw
Alison Maycock
Simon Merchant (until March APCM)
Debbie Norie
Lucy Nott (PCC Secretary)
Jane Rogers
Christopher Trower (from March APCM)
Angeline Vere

The number of parishioners on the church electoral roll for 2024 was 139 (compared with 149 in 2023).

The Incumbent and Churchwardens are also trustees of Hody’s Charity: a small charity established by a previous incumbent of the parish, and which offers young people from the parish support with education.

Administrative Information

The parish of Monks Risborough with Owlswick centres around two places of worship: St. Dunstan’s Church, in the village of Monks Risborough; and St. Peter’s Chapel in the hamlet of Owlswick. The parish forms part of the Risborough Team Ministry, in the Buckingham area of the Diocese of Oxford, within the Church of England.

St. Dunstan’s Church is situated on Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JF. St. Peter’s Chapel is situated at Owlswick, Princes Risborough, HP27 9RH. The correspondence address for both is: The Rectory, Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JE. The parish website is www.stdunstanschurch.com. The PCC is registered charity number 1153869.

Parish Bankers

Barclays Bank, Aylesbury

Independent Examiner

Ann Preston

Vicar’s Annual Report

2024 was a year when I became particularly aware of our role as a parish church. Much of what I do in my ministry, and that we as a church community offer, is in service of those who are not members of our congregation, but to those from throughout our parish, and in some cases beyond. This reflects what we are called to be: the Church of England is arranged into parishes, and ordered with statutes, that enable its local churches to serve the people beyond the walls of its buildings. Whether it is with our funeral ministry, the Lunch Club, or standing at the school gate to support

new parents on the first day of the academic year, we endeavour as best we can to share Christ’s light and love throughout our local community.

At the heart of our common life of course is our worship of Jesus Christ, and one of the most important times of the year is the seasons of Lent and Easter. Easter fell very early in 2024, so Lent was quickly upon us. Our Lent groups were well-attended, and Holy Week was once again a profound journey for all who took part. Beyond Easter, Ascension Day was a particularly joyful occasion, with many who came to worship remarking on how uplifting and hopeful the liturgy was.

In contrast with 2022 and 2023, there were fewer national events – such as the previous year’s Coronation – to provide focal points during the year, but our parish life continued to have its own high points, not least with our Patronal Festival in May. We were once again blessed with splendid weather and food, and a great time of fellowship.

As a church, we are called to journey together as a family – just as Jesus encourages His own mother and John to do, even as He hangs upon the cross. As with any family, we have celebrated joys and marked sorrows through the year. Amongst our many baptisms, a number of them were administered to children within our congregation, which is a source of thanksgiving and encouragement. We have also had the pleasure of seeing three couples all with strong connections to St Dunstan’s get married here during the year, which have likewise been occasions for great rejoicing. But we have also commended into God’s care many members of our congregation past and present; we both mourn their loss, and give thanks for all that they brought to our lives.

Turning to Advent and Christmas, we once again offered the service of Blue Christmas for those who might find the festive season painful for any reason, and it has become clear that this is a very important part of our ministry to offer at that time. The Village Carol Service felt particularly special this year: there was a genuine buzz and feeling of warmth before, during, and after the service. Especially memorable was the moment during the bidding prayer when, as I read the words ‘God Himself, born among us and laid in a manger,’ a small baby in the congregation gently cried out, bringing to mind delightfully for us the wonder of the incarnation.

As always, I would like to express my deep gratitude to everyone who gives of their time, effort, and gifts to ensure that we as a church continue to thrive. So thank you to: our clergy; those who served as churchwardens, financial officers, secretary, and on the PCC during the year; the events team and those who supported them; organists and choir members; 10 O’clock Club and Play Day leaders; Lunch Club and coffee rota volunteers; sidespeople and the sacristan & linen team; flower arrangers and cleaners; churchyard workers and the newsletter team; and many, many more of you who do tasks both regular and occasional, too numerous to mention. Thank you for all that you do to serve Christ and contribute to building His kingdom in this parish.

The Rev’d Peter Godden

Churchwarden Report including Fabric Report

Church Boiler

For a substantial part of the reporting period the church boiler frequently failed to ignite when the thermostat called for heat. Uniheat of Oxford attended on multiple occasions, but were unable to offer a definitive reason for the problem. Their suggested course of action was to replace parts thought likely to be the root cause. In pursuit of this aim the leads connecting the circuit board to

the pilot light igniter was replaced. When this proved ineffective the leads were separated and resheathed. This too failed to resolve the issue. The next suggestion was to start replacing circuit boards, but this approach was resisted and a second opinion sought. This resulted in the suggestion to replace the pilot light gas supply tube. The replacement tube appeared to be identical in all aspects to the one being removed, but thankfully, since this work was undertaken in October, the boiler has worked faultlessly.

One fact to emerge from this close look at the boiler is we can confirm that the boiler was installed on 5[th] October 2015, and should have at least 5 years more life left in it. It is also clear that Diocese are forbidding like for like replacement of church gas boilers that require replacement until an environmental assessment has either identified greener alternatives to burning hydrocarbons, or proved that such an approach is unavailable or unsuitable.

Roof Alarm

Despite there being indications 4 years ago that the current alarm was reaching the end of its life, it has continued to work satisfactorily. A recent annual inspection revealed that one component of the alarm needs to be replaced in the next few months. The PCC will be advised that there appears to be the following choice:

  1. Pay £708 for a replacement part for an alarm that is clearly nearing the end of its life, and continuing with £960 p.a. ongoing charges.

  2. Install a new alarm for £4194 with £724 p.a. ongoing charges which has the additional advantage that St Dunstan’s and its users may benefit from a stable, unlimited 5G Wi-Fi service.

Storm damage

Storms this winter resulted in minor damage to one of the churchyard yew trees, and some flood water entering the church via the south door. Prompt intervention by a resident of the road by the church hall meant that only a limited quantity of water entered that church and no damage was caused. Sandbags have been acquired and placed beside the porch to facilitate intervention should there be another torrential downpour.

Fire

The annual fire risk assessment has been undertaken. Confirmation that evacuation through the main 3 portals (Chancel, South and North doors) can be achieved in an appropriate timeframe for the following typical attendance maxima, even when the majority of attendees are unfamiliar with the layout of the church: 170 (Weddings), 210 (Funerals), 300 (Major festivals such as Christmas).

There was a debate about performing a trial evacuation, but this was not undertaken as there would be little additional knowledge gained with a typical Eucharist attendance of 75, and some members of the congregation might find the exercise stressful.

Several items identified in the inspection remain outstanding.

Archdeacon’s Visitation Inspection

Almost all points raised either needed no action, or have been addressed. A few items remain outstanding.

Quinquennial Inspection (QI)

The recommendations made in the QI have mostly been completed, or are about to be completed. See the Fabric Report below for details.

Fabric Report

There were a couple of occasions early in 2024 when small pieces of wood fell from the church ceiling in the nave. The church architect visited with his drone to videograph the offending areas and he informed us that whilst this might seem alarming there was no real cause for concern as it did not mean that the ceiling was structurally unsound. A hypothesised combination of heating, storms and age contributed to two wedges shrinking leading to them heading south to the nave floor. Our insurers, Ecclesiastical, were informed of the issue and advised us to follow the advice of our architect. Following a subsequent visit and conversation with the architect, two pews were removed from use until the work was completed. The timing was not great as this occurred just before Advent but we were fortunate to find a contractor who was able to do the necessary work in good time. His report stated that the ceiling was in good repair and that there were no areas of concern, so all the pews were back in use for the Silver Band Concert in mid-December and all the Christmas services.

There are some items of electrical work due to be completed, for which we are talking to a local electrician who we are hoping will be able to carry out the work soon. The next inspection is due in 2026.

The broken external light adjacent to the boiler room door which is supposed to illuminate the path leading up from Mill Lane has been replaced and we hope to get the electrician to connect that at the same time.

The annual PAT testing is due and a contractor has been identified so we hope to have this completed very soon.

The Diocese has offered all churches a free Energy Audit Check to help with moving towards net zero carbon. We took advantage of this and the audit was carried out in early November. The resulting report details a number of things we could do to reduce our carbon footprint whilst also saving on heating and lighting costs and these will be investigated throughout 2025. The audit was offered with the added benefit of up to £3000 from the Diocese towards any changes recommended in the report that we choose to adopt. However, as the report identified a spend of nearly £100k, we will need to plan carefully and choose wisely those alterations suggested. Under pew heating and low energy light bulbs were two of the changes that we will be considering, although we are already using suitable light bulbs in the church.

Reports from the Life of the Church and the Parish

Bell Ringers

We continued to serve our main purpose during the year and rang before almost every Sunday morning 10.00am service. This and our weekly practices were well supported by ringers from Stoke Mandeville, Great Kimble and especially Ellesborough, without whom it would be difficult to continue.

During the year we hosted one of the monthly Oxford Diocesan Guild Branch Practices and a visiting group from Oxford and its surroundings as well as several visitors who turned up at our practice sessions. We also had requests from parishioners to see over the bell tower, one with family from Australia and one from Sweden.

During the year appeals were made to the congregation for new ringers, both by the vicar and in the church magazine. Sadly, these only brought forward one volunteer, who turned out to have already been a ringer in his younger years. Unfortunately, he did nothing to reduce our average age which is now comfortably over 70.

Financially we have run at a loss for several years, due mainly to the almost total loss of our main source of income, weddings. This, of course, disappeared during Covid and now very few couples get married in church, something that has been noticed by groups from other parishes. Our once healthy bank balance has been reduced by the cost of rope replacements, guild subscriptions etc. to a point when we may soon replace our bank account with a cash box! Luckily, we have at least one spare new rope and a stock of ash should any bell stays get broken.

We continue to carry out three monthly safety inspections of the bells and apart from tightening a few bolts, no attention has been required.

Brian Highe

Bethany House Group

The Bethany Group continues to thrive. This year we recruited two new members, so we are up to full capacity. We have taken a year to study the whole of Luke's Gospel. "But not necessarily in the right order" to quote Eric Morecambe. In Lent we studied the last weeks of Jesus life up to and including the crucifixion narrative and in Advent went back to the first chapters. All other parts we fitted round these seasons. Our future plan is to look at parts of the Old Testament with which we are unfamiliar. We are most grateful to Su Viney for hosting our meetings and for her warm hospitality.

Rose Williams

Charity Commissions

All accounts and accompanying documents have been submitted as required within the requisite timeframe, and new PCC members have been duly registered.

Jane Curry

Church Music

The music at St Dunstan’s is an important part of the life of the church, and our organists are at the forefront. We are fortunate that we have not one but five regular organist who cover the majority of services/events throughout the year. Their music sets the mood before and after services as well as leading the singing.

Their contribution to the life of the choir is invaluable, both at practice and services, even occasionally becoming honorary choir members.

A very big thank you to all our players and l hope they continue to help lead our worship. The choir has had, in many respects, a quieter year in 2024, but has consolidated their increasing confidence, even when their numbers were depleted. We have learnt new music for some of the major festivals as well as renewing acquaintance with old favourites. We sang at weddings and funerals when requested.

Easter and Christmas where for the most part covered by a good number of members at each service, though the Christmas period was very depleted at times due to illness mostly. The two services on Christmas Eve were a prime example. At the 6pm service we were down to seven and the midnight service was probably going to be 3. Our visiting organist, Tom Brockington, and his sister Charlotte, (both former members of the choir) sang with us, which was a great help. Though depleted in number the choir sang with commitment, which was very commendable.

As usual practice night is a lively affair, sometimes nearly over running into bell ringing practice. The warm ups and other vocal exercises sometimes finish in controlled chaos and laughter which can’t be bad.

It only remains for me to thank everyone involved in the music at St Dunstan’s for their work, commitment and expertise, which greatly enhances the life and worship of our church.

Margaret Pitman

Churches Together in Risborough

‘Working together in unity to serve the community in God’s love and for God’s glory’

This group meets approximately every 3 months and comprises the Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Elim and Methodist Churches in Princes Risborough plus Bledlow, Little Kimble, Lacey Green and Speen churches. Whilst each church pursues its own work within the community there are several areas where we can and do work together or provide background support for each other.

We began the year with the service for the Week of Prayer for Christian unity, at the Free Church, Little Kimble. The Lent and Easter events all took place, with an act of witness, in the Market Square, on Good Friday, and culminating in the Easter Sunrise service on Whiteleaf Cross. Thanks to Charlotte and David Steele for providing a selection of hot savouries and cakes, following the service, and St Dunstan’s for the tea/coffee etc. It was much appreciated. Lighthouse took place at the end of July, on the Top School field. The week was very successful with approximately 400 children and helpers taking part. More volunteers are always welcome, particularly on the management of the site. CTR also work with the Wycombe Youth for Christ team who have a regular presence in the town, building relationships with the young people.

Another initiative is the giving of ‘It’s your move’ booklets to all the school leavers from the local primary schools.

.

CTR had a presence at the Town Christmas Light Switch on, joining with the Ellesborough Band in leading carol singing in the middle of the High Street, which went down very well. Our joint Advent Service was held at St John’s Lacey Green followed by refreshments.

CTR’s website www.risboroughchurches.org.uk acts as shop window for our activities and provides a link to all the member churches as well as further afield. Any areas where you think CTR should have a presence please advise Peter or me.

It would be very helpful to have another regular from St Dunstan’s on the Committee.

Margaret Pitman

Churchyard

Arboreal

Patrick Stileman undertook a periodic tree assessment on 28th November 2023 of the 32 main trees in the churchyard. Recommendations were made for remedial work to be undertaken with 3 levels of priority: within 1, 3, and 12 months. Stages 1 and 2 have been completed and Stage 3 will be completed by Complete Tree Services on Friday 7th February. Regulations concerning protecting nesting birds meant that there was a prolonged period when routine work was not allowed.

Landscape

We welcomed four new people onto the mowing team, three from outside of the congregation, all of whom have been delighted to play a part in helping to tend the churchyard. The whole team have worked very hard to maintain the churchyard, for which we are very grateful.

A section of the churchyard extension, at the churchyard’s south end, is now being cut regularly, in readiness for receiving burials there; the intention is for the rest of that area to continue to be allowed to grow wild, as in previous years.

Shed

In mid-November the shed where our grounds maintenance equipment is stored was broken into by forcing the sliding front doors. Fortunately, nothing was stolen, and the damage was repairable.

The maintenance equipment has been taken off site for safe storage, and plans have been formulated to improve security within the shed before they are replaced for the growing season.

See also boundary security.

Boundary Security

In late April Peter, Sally, Sue and Paul spent an afternoon replacing perimeter fence posts that had become rotten. This was a maintenance task which restored areas of weakness where people might be tempted to climb over the otherwise poorly supported split hazel fence. At this juncture nothing was done to close a gap in the centre of the back fence that had become an unofficial passageway between the churchyard and the park in the area of corner of Dunsmore Avenue.

Following the shed break in, it was felt that the perpetrators may well have used this route to access the shed. To deter a recurrence, the unofficial passageway was closed off by inserting more fence posts and Heavy Duty 50mm Weld Mesh fencing to reinforce the existing split hazel.

Lighting

Several people had observed that navigating the churchyard after dark, especially when leaving the church after a function when their eyes had not become night adjusted, was difficult. This problem has been addressed by replacing the LED floodlight on the exterior of the north wall, and purchasing some solar powered battery-operated PIR mini flood lights that are deployed along all three main paths whenever there are evening functions that commence or finish after dark.

Churchwardens

Events

A lovely quote from a parishioner to start this report! “An incredible year, not only providing entertainment and joy to the parish but also raising a great amount of funds for the church”

2024 was another busy year with a variety of events, hopefully a little of something of interest for everyone. A sum in excess of £7,000 was raised overall. So many people support events at St Dunstan’s, thank you all. However, special thanks must go to our small Events Team who always approach the planning and delivery of our calendar with dedication and humour.

Pop up Cinema

We show four films each year, two in the spring and two in the winter; when the early sunset provides the right light conditions for a 6pm start. Films chosen this year were: The Great Escaper, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, Downton - A New Era and Gifted. Thanks to Charlie Fairall, Paul Woodward Court and Peter who assisted with the technical setup. Joining the mailing list to find out which films we show is straightforward via comms@stdunstanschurch.com . Feel free to let us know if you have a particular favourite you would like us to consider showing.

Patronal Festival BBQ

Jim from Orchard View Farm provided the fabulous barbeque, with pulled pork, sausages and a vegetarian option. So many salads and desserts were donated by members of the congregation that there was plenty for seconds, if not thirds for some! The weather was so glorious that people sat to chat and relax well into the afternoon.

Jazz Concert

A popular new addition to our calendar of events was to hear our very own Rev Peter Godden perform with his super talented friend Tim Boniface. In a packed church we were treated to a range of different jazz styles and even led on a journey using the familiar tune ‘Oh When The Saints Come Marching In.’ The musicians have a packed schedule but we can’t wait to book them again, so if you missed it last year…..

Bucks Art Cream Teas

A favourite event for the team as we get to meet so many different people, many who travel to visit our church from quite far away. All are complimentary about the variety of home made cakes and scones which they tell us we serve at a very reasonable price - it means they come back time and time again.

Coach Trip to Southwark Cathedral

This was our first experiment into a cathedral trip post COVID, and whilst it wasn’t as well attended as on previous occasions we had positive feedback and it will hopefully become a regular feature again. The focus was on the Threads Through Creation exhibition, a spectacular sequence of twelve huge textile panels retelling the creation story in the book of Genesis. Many attended the Eucharist service and there was time to enjoy the surrounding area for refreshments.

Chandos Ensemble Concert

We welcomed back The Ensemble for A September Serenade, a programme of beautiful music by Mozart, Marcello and Barber. A friendly group of talented musicians who love to play together and are very generous in performing for us for no fee.

Harvest Lunch

Building on positive comments last year we offered a ploughman’s lunch in the church building again. People were able to sit at tables or in pews and enjoy a traditional harvest lunch with plenty of time to chat and socialise.

Advent Craft Fair

With an extended opening time until 3pm this time, the church was bustling with visitors. Lots of our stallholders return every year which is positive and every space was filled with crafts, plants, produce, gifts, raffle and refreshments.

Chinnor Silver Band Concert

The church always looks fabulous for this event which was a sell-out yet again. In candlelight the band performed a popular selection of Christmas music and the audience joined the singing of carols with gusto. There was even an impromptu rendition of ‘We Three Kings’ involving some of the audience! Mulled wine and mince pies added to the festive ambience.

Events team (Cathy Farquhar, Penny Hollings, Sue Ingram, Alison Maycock, Gwen Miles, Ann Myers, Johanna Powell, Rachel Ungi, Jo Wade, Anne White)

Fellowship

We have met monthly in the Church Hall on the second Thursday morning apart from in August when we had our Saturday Garden Party. We had three speakers. One was from a High Wycombe charity called Contact, which supervises visits for children whose parents are separated , to meet with the parent with whom they don't live. In July, Rev Peter kindly stepped in when Covid meant we had to change our plans, and he told us about his passion for The Beatles. In the autumn the founder of a local charity called My Cancer My Choices spoke about complementary therapies supporting cancer treatments.

In October we had a wonderful embroidery workshop from Rev Sally where we learned about gold work. For our DIY mornings , we brought along a favourite piece of music, and a book recommendation and in January we had our annual pop up café.

In December we were delighted to listen to our handbell team again, while sipping mulled wine. Our Christian Aid Souper Soup brunch is taking place in February.

Our finances are in the safe hands of our church treasurer who keeps a note of our transactions within the church account.

We are responsible for cleaning the church brass.

We are always looking for new folk to come along. You can find out about our next events in the Newsletter or the e-News or by contacting me. Why not give us a try? You will be assured of a warm welcome.

Rosemary Woodward-Court

Flowers

2023-2024 saw a return to a “normal” rota with a team of 24 arrangers and 3 new recruits, Sally Spurway, Isabel Taylor & Helen White. The St Dunstan Flower Arrangers continue to provide flowers for the porch, Wilberforce Chapel niche and the High Altar on a fortnightly basis with the flowers being mainly provided by the team. On average the members of the team feature on the rota three times a year with festivals & weddings as extras.

Some churches have abandoned the use of oasis on environmental grounds as it does not break down easily. We have reduced our usage to 25% of our pre covid usage with reuse of blocks and vases where appropriate. However, oasis does burn . In Buckinghamshire, over 50% of the waste we produce is re-used, recycled or composted, but we still need to dispose of what is left. Waste that cannot be recycled is no longer sent to landfill, it now goes to Greatmoor Energy from Waste Facility, in the north of the county. It burns the waste to generate electricity, enough for 40,000 homes and will save local taxpayers at least £150million over the next 30 years. Non-recyclable waste is collected from homes across the County and at the nine household recycling centres. https://www.recycleforbuckinghamshire.co.uk/what-happens-toyour-waste/non-recyclable-waste/ For those interested this site runs great visits!

The yearly pattern starts with Mothering Sunday, followed by Easter. As part of Easter, we continue to ask for contributions towards the lilies in memory of loved ones. We also arrange spring flowers for the “Altar of Repose”. May saw the church decorated with displays chosen and designed by the arrangers for the Coronation celebrations. There were 20 arrangements covering different aspects of King Charles & Queen Camilla’s interests and patronages ranging from organic farming, to the Queen’s Reading Room – a mini–Flower Festival. This was followed by the Bucks Art Week, a wedding, Harvest Festival and Remembrance Sunday. As there were so many local events taking place on the weekend of the first Advent it was decided that the two-day Christmas Tree Festival would not take place.

Christmas is extremely busy and starts at the end of November, when the Christmas tree is installed with purple Advent decoration, and goes through to January which is a challenge for the watering and refresh team. The Christmas decorations are put up in three stages with flowers and a change of colour to the Advent tree being undertaken just before Christmas day. The packing away and storage of the “angels” is always rather a chore but about 10 of the team not succumbing to ‘flu and other viruses put away the decorations in January.

This year is already proving to be busy with Easter, two weddings, Bucks Art Week on the agenda. We are hoping to organise at least one workshop as they are very popular but squeezing it into the calendar is a challenge and discussing a possible wedding themed collaboration with the Events Team for the future.

Gwen Miles & Jenny Masterton Smith Hody’s Charity

The capital continues to provide a good return for the charity, which is more than enough to cover grants for applications that come in. Two applications were received in 2024 from young people in the parish which is double the number received in the previous year. The trustees will look at how

to increase applications for 2025. Applications are welcomed from young people between the ages of 16 and 21 years who are either in full time education or apprenticeship.

Churchwardens

Lunch Club

The Lunch Club continues to meet on the first Friday of each month. We have nearly 30 members and on average 25 come each time for lunch and chat. The cost of the lunch remains at £5.00. We are able to cover the cost of the lunch, rent of the hall and any extra proceeds are donated back to the church. We are indebted to our drivers and helpers who make this enjoyable event happen.

Anne Baker

Monks Risborough School

For several years the very old swimming pool in the school grounds had remained out of use due to it being no longer compliant with health and safety legislation. The cost of rendering it fully compliant was found to be considerable, so, while the future of the pool was being assessed, classes walked with staff to the Princes Risborough Leisure Centre for their swimming lessons. This trial proved successful and was much more cost effective than updating and maintaining the old pool. The pool building was therefore removed and an inspirational new wildlife and outdoor learning space was created in its place.

In the academic sphere, the school obtained excellent results in the national Phonics tests taken in Key Stage 1 (Reception to Year 2). Good, improved results, above national averages, were obtained in the standardised tests for Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6).

Recruitment for a new position of Inclusion Assistant was successful. This role was created to support pupil wellbeing and mental health.

The school governing body added 4 to its number at the beginning of 2024: Janine James and Rui Pestana as parent governors; Angie Lench as a co-opted governor and Bev Webb as the local authority governor. Colin Platt, who had served as Chair of Governors for 5 years, stepped down at the end of the summer term. Jane Curry, Vice-Chair of Governors for the same period, was elected to the role of Chair and Angie took over as Vice-Chair. Ted Kent, who had served for 4 years as a Foundation Governor, also stepped down at that time, but at the end of 2024, no church member had yet been found to replace Ted.

During 2024, the school expanded its links with the community. By the end of the year there were more members of the community volunteering with reading help, working in the school library and accompanying staff and pupils on school trips. New links were arranged with Icknield Care Home, where monthly visits by a class of pupils have begun. Pupils sang on various occasions outside the school, including this year at the Methodist Church for the Evergreen Lunch Club.

The Rev. Peter Godden and the Rev. Sally Prendergast continued to lead worship at assemblies in the school on Tuesdays, this role being shared with the Rev. Vanessa Rae from the Baptist Church until Vanessa moved to a new position out of the area. School services were held in St. Dunstan’s Church as usual to celebrate Easter, School Leavers, Harvest Thanksgiving and Christmas. In addition, this year the school choir sang at the regular Sunday family service celebrating Christingle.

Jane Curry

Newsletter

The editorial team has remained unchanged this year, so many thanks to John McKay, who continues to handle the production of the magazine, as well as managing the Website and the weekly on-line e- News and creating posters for church events. His contribution is really outstanding. We also thank Penny Hollings for organising the distribution, Janette Bacon for the advertising and Jane Curry for the proof-reading. All give their time and commitment to ensure the Newsletter continues to be a reliable and, we hope, entertaining magazine for the whole parish.

As well as keeping everyone in touch with all the St Dunstan’s services and societies, we also like to provide general interest articles for the community. Susanne Carr continues to entertain us through the year with her art tickles, which are followed and appreciated by many readers, but in the autumn issue, we said farewell to another regular contributor, David Keysell, as he finally reached the end of his pilgrimage to Santiago del Compostela. It has been wonderful to accompany David on his journey and we hope that he may find another adventure to share with us soon.

We thank everyone who provided copy this year, but a special mention should go to Brian and Jackie Highe. Brian gave us entertaining pieces on bees and beekeeping, bell-ringing and gardening, while Jackie shared some of the creative pieces written by children at Monks Risborough school as part of her literacy project with year 6. Other highlights were an article on the history of our local railway line by Francis Gomme and a lively World of Work interview with our PCC secretary Lucy Nott.

Finally, we thank our printers South Bucks Business Products, who have again given us excellent service, and our stalwart team of distributors who ensure every house in the parish receives a copy. Each year as I write this report I am reminded of what a team effort it truly is and how lucky we are to live in a community where that are so many willing volunteers.

Morna Hinch

Open House Group

Open House is a Home group where we have discussions on a variety of issues to do with the Christian faith. The subjects for discussion come from members of the group and we try to tackle some of the more challenging aspects of living as a Christian in today’s society. It is an opportunity to study areas of scripture and the nature of God in a safe environment.

The previous year (2023) had started with a study of the book of Joshua and this continued into 2024. It was based on a question of the violence of war in the Old Testament. After we had started a topic the incursion into Israel and the taking of hostages prompted the Gaza War. This brought home the grim realities of war. The nation of Israel as recorded in the book of Joshua, had to learn several lessons when things went wrong just as we do today.

A new topic began in the Summer about ‘How did Christianity Spread. ‘

New members are welcome to join us for our monthly meetings.

Ted and Mary Kent

Organ

Last year we reported on investigations into the history and condition of the organ. The difficulties encountered in playing the instrument, and its limited capabilities, led clearly to the conclusion that we should look seriously at renovation or replacement.

This year we sought further expert advice, and have looked in some detail at the options. A discussion with the PCC in August helped to narrow down our investigation. The working group is now looking and listening to examples of the type of instrument that we may recommend, aiming to present findings to the PCC later this year.

Working group members (Jane Curry, Sarah Fairall, Peter Godden, Sue Ingram, David Keysell, Sue Merchant, John Precious and Simon Gray) welcome any observations and suggestions from church members, and can provide more details.

Simon Gray

Parish Prayers and Pastoral Care

Parish Prayers are held each month and provide the vital underpinning of prayer, not only for those who are in need but also of all aspects of Parish life. Facilitated by Jill Iredale, there are currently eight people, including the Vicar, who meet quietly each month in the Church Hall to bring before God, not only those in need or for whom we have been asked to pray, but also with thanks for events taken place, prayer for events still to come and also for each of the Groups that are run across the Parish. Again, it is important to stress that this time of prayer is confidential so that anyone who wishes to be prayed for can ask in the safety of knowing that their concerns and needs will not be discussed elsewhere. Lastly, it is hoped that people will not be shy in asking, for no-one need worry or suffer alone: there is help beyond Sunday Worship which may alleviate any worries or concerns and - very importantly that no-one ever feels that they are ’not good enough’ for prayer.

Pastoral Care is a vital asset of all parishes and Monks Risborough is no exception. The care provided in this Parish is under the auspices of the Vicar, Peter Godden, led by Angeline Vere and with the assistance of Jill Iredale - all of whom are safeguarded. In addition there are a few members of the congregation who help with the discernment of those in need and information is given in The Newsletter for all who wish to have the care and attention which this service provides. Pastoral help is for all ages, and does not cover just illness, loneliness or bereavement, but also many of the difficulties that life can bring: a personal visit, telephone call or other help is always on offer. It is also important to include all those who may now no longer be able to come to church but still appreciate visits whether still in their homes or in Nursing Homes. Some may be suffering from dementia in their latter years and to this end Angeline has undertaken specific Dementia training in order to be of more effective help and understanding. Confidentiality is key to all of this and there are those for whom the Vicar will provide assistance and visiting - and with his complete discretion as a priest.

Angeline Vere and Jill Iredale

Planned giving and stewardship

The report covers the claim year April 2023 -2024

The total amount of tax claimed from HMRC amounted to £8940.19

This amount is made up from the 39 regular Gift Aid Donations £23004.00, Total Tax Reclaimed £5751.00

128 Blue Envelope Donors (3 of these donors are also regular gift Aid Donors) £6648.80, Total Tax Reclaim £1662.24.

There were 164 different donors during the year.

From the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme (GASDS), this covers the donations which are usually cash donations during the services at St Dunstans’ and St Peter & St Paul at Owlswick. This year we were able to claim a tax refund of £1506.87, which is included in the above total amount claimed of £8940.19.

In addition, we received £20.08 of interest from HMRC as the repayment was not made until September.

We still receive a number of donations in Blue Envelopes, which do not qualify for a reclaim as they are incorrectly completed or totally ineligible. These are usually from people attending weddings or funerals who would not be known to us. Our Tax Re-claim is probably reduced by about £50.00 per year because of this. Where I know or recognise the donor of an incorrectly completed blue envelope, I do complete these myself and include them in the claim.

Nick Tyler

Risborough Team

The Risborough Team, of which we are a part, has seen a great deal of change this year. In September, the parishes of Bledlow, Saunderton and Horsenden welcomed the Rev’d John Walton to minister amongst them. John joined from the Benefice of Long Crendon, and is still serving his curacy. I have therefore taken on the role of being John’s training incumbent, albeit from afar, and so meet with John weekly, as well as offering other support and guidance throughout the week.

Then on Christmas Day, our Team Rector David Williams bade farewell to us all as he departed St Mary’s Princes Risborough for a new role in Wales. He will deeply missed throughout the Risborough area for his verve and dedication to ministry. It is hoped that a new Team Rector can be appointed during 2025.

Amidst these changes, the team continues to work together in various ways. Our weekly services of morning prayer, together with monthly meetings, keep the ministers united in prayer and fellowship. I continue to particularly enjoy contributing to the life of the team by leading Collective Worship at St John’s Primary School in Lacey Green, and Speen Infant School, which is a real privilege. The knitted Bible figures which I take with me – a gift from a parishioner where I served my own curacy – continue to be very popular.

Rev’d Peter Godden

Safeguarding

The PCC has complied with the requirements imposed by the code under section 5A of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016.

Safer Recruitment

6 DBS applications were completed.

Safeguarding Training

PSO undertook an online training session on the Safeguarding Hub on 2 July 2024 (see below)

Parish Safeguarding Dashboard

The Safeguarding Dashboard brings together and streamlines safeguarding policy and practice. It is intended to support parishes in understanding the Church of England safeguarding requirements, and to track progress in meeting these requirements.

The dashboard consists of questions about safeguarding practice in the parish and rates the answer to each as green (completed), amber (work to do) or red (urgent action required). As information is added to the dashboard, it generates an action plan detailing which areas of safeguarding are still to be progressed. The Dashboard was 94-100% complete over the time period.

Safeguarding Hub

On 2 July 2024 I undertook an online training session on the Safeguarding Hub. The Hub is separate to the Safeguarding Parish Dashboard.

It is not compulsory to use The Hub, but it is particularly useful for churches employing many staff and volunteers. It is in three sections: Role Creator, People Manager and Recruitment Tracker. We are not using The Hub because I keep my own records for volunteer training and APCS notifies me of DBSs that need renewing.

Angeline Vere

Sidespeople

We have a fantastic team of sides persons who do such a wonderful job of welcoming and assisting the congregation and helping the smooth running of all our services. Tt is so wonderful to hear from people visiting our church for the first time how welcoming our church is, so you should all be proud of the service you provide. Also, a big thank you to the team of people who prepare and read the intercessions at our Sunday services. I would also like to take this opportunity of welcoming Clive and Barbara Hobbs, Jill Iredale and Sally Merrison to our team. Thank you everyone for the support and help you all give me it is so much appreciated and certainly makes producing the rota so much easier.

Mick Quigley

St Peter’s Owlswick

Since last year the new development on the site of the former Shoulder of Mutton Pub has been completed and most of the houses are sold, unfortunately the developers have not yet transferred ownership of the Green to Longwick cum Ilmer Parish Council, but we live in hope.

A quiz to help fund the repairs to the chapel was held in March and raised £808. Social evenings were held in the chapel during April, May and June, the subjects ranging from gardening and the environment from Bucksum Farm Shop, John Hampden by Dr Beth Rogers and local resident Philip Pope on his life in music and comedy.

In July we celebrated our patronal festival with drinks and nibbles after evensong and in August we celebrated the 100[th] birthday of a regular member of the congregation.

In September we celebrated Harvest Thanksgiving with a donation of goods to the Whitechapel Mission.

The long-awaited repairs to the chapel started in December, or at least the scaffolding appeared, unfortunately due to staff illness the builder was not able to complete the work, and due to the proximity of Christmas and the Carol Service the work was stopped and at the time of writing we await his return to finish the job.

The Carol Service had a very good attendance and it was lovely to have two younger readers join us, sherry and nibbles were supplied by local people and we all enjoyed an opportunity to chat after the service.

Thanks are due to everyone from St. Dunstan’s who has supported the chapel throughout the year and particularly Stuart who plays the organ for Evensong.

Jane Rogers

Youth

The 10 o’clock club has around 10 children on the Sunday school register, ranging from ages 4 to 10, some occasionally, some more regularly. We continue to use the Roots resource, which works well with adaptation according to ages, as it gives flexibility. Thank you to volunteers for stepping in when I am away, but I need to find more leaders to share the role. Lighthouse songs are sung as part of our worship, and the children are becoming experts at the actions! Hopefully they will attend Lighthouse this summer.

The children, and some keen gardening members of our congregation, built a beautiful Easter Garden for all to admire, outside the porch, which I know had many lovely comments from parishioners. Thank you to all those who helped and supplied plants.

The children continue to help at the family service each month, when one of their families is able to attend church. We want to encourage more child participation in our services.

Lighthouse was a great success again this year, celebrating the Nativity story in July! Still smaller than previous years, but we had a good supply of volunteers, but talked about how we could encourage the teenagers to stay all week, as their help fluctuated. We are always looking for new supporters of Lighthouse, so if you can help in any way, during the week or beforehand behind the scenes, please get in touch.

Remembrance saw greater numbers of uniformed children attending from 2nd Monks Risborough Rainbows, Brownies and 1st Monks Risborough Guides, which was encouraging.

Our half term play days continue to be very popular and well attended, with lots of fun craft, games, singing and activities.

We ended the year with our Christmas party, making Advent mobiles from our Roots resource, and telling the Christmas story in fancy dress! Our Crib service was very well attended this year with many children in Nativity dress.

Debbie Norie

Flnanclal Revlew The church's total income this year was £122,310, whilst our total expenditure was £109,516 such that we recorded a net surplus for the year of £12,794. The income and expenditure for this year show, and for 2023 have been restated to show, only those fees due to the church and not those passed on to third parties {see note 11. Our income was lower than last year's by £2,168 and our expenditure lower by £9,978 when last yearfs figures are restated on this basis. As in previous years, the largest single element of our income came from parishioners, donations, rnuch of which was gift aided. Reflecting in part the 9Yo drop in electoral roll, our overall Income from regular donations was nevertheless some 5% lower than last yearfs. Furthermore, thls year we returned to the normal state of receiving gift aid on one year's donations such that the total gift aid received was over £12,000 less than in 2023. The net effect was for recurrlng Income to be £15,800 lower than last year. We received legacies, one restrlcted to repalr and malntenance of St Peterfs chapel and the other followin8 discussion wlth the family of the donor has been designated to the church's work with young people. Together wlth a generous donatlon to the organ fund these contributed £10,000 In total, reducing the drop In voluntary Income to less than £5,700. Thls drop In Income was offset by Increases In funds raised through church activities, interest income and other cash recelpts. The church's varlous fund-ralsing activltles again made a slgnlficant contrlbutlon to our Ineome, ralslng £22,200 in total, over £2,000 more than last year, for which thanks 80 to all involved whether organising or participating in these events. This year we again paid our full parish share contribution to the Diocese. The church gave IO% of its net free income which equated to £11,200 to 7 charities. Repair and maintenance costs were some £6,000 less than last year, representing much of the fall in expenditure from last year to this, The long-anticipated repairs to St Peter's chapel were c105e to completlon at the year end and their cost, around £9,000, wlll be met In 2025. The heatin8 and lighting costs were down for the year as we received a rebate for the incorrect charglng of the clirnate change levy and full rate VAT which had been made for some of this year and last year. It would be prudent not to expect to receive legacles or one-off donations in 2025 equivalent to those received In 2024. Together with the cost of the work at St Peterfs, this raises the potentlal of a small deficlt In 2025, which the PCC will be working to flnd ways to reverse. Slrnon Merchant retired from the PCC during this year. Many thanks go to Simon for the help he gave both the former treasurer and me with the preparation of annual accounts and financial reviews. Reserves Pollcy The Reserves Policy is that the church should maintain sufficient net free reserves, that is neither restricted nor designated funds, to cover at least 3 months, expenditure on normal running costs as well as any forecast expenditure on committed capital projects.

At the end of 2024, free reserves stood at £38,769. Three months, normal running costs amount to around £28,000. The bulk of the cost of repair5 to St Petef s chapel will be met from funds restricted to repair and maintenance of the chapel's fabric, with the balance coming from our designated fabric fund. Other essential repalr and maintenance work foreseen in 2025, consisting of safety related work on trees in the churchyard and replacernent of a church hall window, is estimated to cost less than £1,200. On that basis, l am happy to report that our reserves remain compliant with the Reserves Policy. Organ Fund Investigations continue Into the best way forward wlth the organ at St Dunstan's. The costs of all options identified to date are estimated to exceed the level we could reasonably meet from reserves and from funds restricted or designated to the organ. A slgnificant fund-raisin8 campaign therefore looks likely. David Curry March 2025

St Dunstan's Church Monks Risborough Parochial Church Council Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 Receipts and Payments account 2023 (Reslaled) Noles Unr85trfcled lund8 Restricted funds Designaled funds Total RECEIPTS Recelpt8 from generated lund4: Voluntary income ActSvitles for gen8ratSng lund8 Inv8Stmenl Incom8 97,906 20.136 1,096 119,138 80,898 21,019 10,340 1,180 1,000 92,238 22,199 1,920 116.357 1,336 2,336 102,501 11,520 5,340 Oth•r caih r•c•lpts 3,812 2,141 5.953 124,478 Totsl rn¢•lpts 100,313 13,681 2,338 122,310 PAYMENTS P•ym•nt• for g•ner•tlng fund•: Cost of generaiing voluntary Income Fundr81sing costs Inveyimant manllgemenl co818 455 5,281 294 5,338 294 6,133 795 5,738 5,632 795 6,427 99,573 Church octlvltl•• 89,115 2,191 58 91,364 12,800 Charltsble don•Uon• 10 11,200 11,200 67 Church manmg•rn•nt & •dmlnl•trollor 11 80 80 1,318 Oth•r ca•h p*ym•nt• 12 445 445 119.494 Tolal p•yin•nt• 108,027 3,431 58 109,518 4,984 NET RECEIPTS I (PAYMENTS) 288 10,230 2,278 12,794 TranJl•r• b•tw••n fund• 4,984 NET RECEIPTS I {PAYMENTSI after tr•n8fen 288 10,230 2,278 12,794 60.392 Cash balances at start of year 38,483 1,728 25.165 65,376 65,376 Cash balances at Bnd of year 38,789 11.958 27,443 78,170 The notes on th8 followlng p8ges form part of these accounts. Pa8e I

St DunBtan's Church Monk5 Risborough Parochial Church Councll Accounts for the year ended 31 Decembar 2024 Statement of A8sets & Llabllltles 2023 (Reststèdl Unrostrldod funds Rgstrldod lunds Da81gnated funds Total Monotsry a•sots Cash Bank current eccounl Bank Sub8cdpllon account CBF Deposit account CBF Organ Fund CBF Fabri¢ Fund 9,022 31,189 3,651 2,141 19,373 65,376 5,391 33.378 1,728 10,230 8,062 43,608 3,844 2,255 20,4a1 78,170 3,844 2,255 20,401 27,443 38,789 11,968 Oth•r rnon•tsry ••••ts In¥••tm•nts ••••ts A•••t• u••d lor th• chirlty'• own u Th•ro wore r+0 conllnB•nl Iliblllti•i. Th• nol•i on th• followlng p49•• fom part Of Ih•i• account•. The88 fln8nclal 8lalemenl8 wero opprov•d by the Parochlal Church Coundl on Ilbw Chaiman Tru81ge Page 2

St Dunstan's Church, Monks Risborough Parochlal Church Councll Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 Notes to the flnanclal statements 1 Accountlng pollcle8 Th8 financlal statements have been prepared in accordance ￿1h SgCt6on 42131 of th8 cha￿￿e8 Act 1993 uslng the receipts and payments basis and In accordance wllh the Church Accounung Regulations 1997 to 2001. The fees received by th8 church have been reslaled lo show those fees due lo the church and does not indude those amounts passed on to IhSrd partles eg the Dioce88. Accordlngly th8 receipts and expenéiture have b88n reduc8d by th8 same amount In 2023 and the 2024 accounts have been prepared on thls basls. 2023 IR•it•t•dl Unr•slYicl8d Roslrlctèd Fund6 De8ign8led Funds Total Funds 2 Valuntary Incom• R•currlng Incom•'. Tax . efficionl planned glvlng lexd. tsxl Collecllon8 of10088 cash al sèNI¢88 Olher planned 9lvlng Ib8nk8r8 ordar and paymlll Tax recoverod 50,194 5,724 10,325 30,485 95,728 47,563 6.072 9,027 18.236 0,898 47,583 6,072 9,027 18,236 Non4•¢urrfng Incom•: Legacles Special app•#16 lowl81￿Ck 8uildlng Fund) SlowJrd$hlp Camp8ign Don8lion8 wlh GIA Olher Stewardship CAmpolgn DDnallnn8 Other Gronl8 R•colv•d Insur8n¢• Clalm DDnatlons lo Fobrlc Fund F4brfc GranlJ 5,000 1,277 1,000 6,000 1,277 1,093 60 50 50 36 Doriallons lo General & OrgAn Fund 4.013 10.340 4,013 92,238 97.906 80,898 I,OOD 3 Church •v•nts In¢ludlnq ftJndr•l•lng Summer FelelAdvent Fayro ConcertglFSlm NlghlslPan'3h Oullng$ Fees relaln¥d by PCC Church m8g•zln8lBookstall 8u&8 Art8 Wgek Church Coffvelcoffae MDmlngslCrgam Tea8 Carol Singlng Parlsh 8ar4-QIHarvo61 Lun Special coll&￿1￿n8 Acuon Ajd 1,151 3.779 8,D85 2,642 3,572 462 1,398 8,635 5,555 1,319 4,263 443 1,398 6,635 5.555 2.114 4.263 443 795 927 1,210 1,210 165 1,138 181 165 220 220 196 199 Church Nolelelslchurch Booklets FIo%•+erlChrf8lm48 Tro0 Festlval 196 2Ct.136 21.019 1,180 21,199 P•g• 3

St Dunstan'5 Church, Monks Risborough Parochlal Church Counc51 Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 Notes to the flnanclal statements 2023 (Restated) Unro8tricted Fund8 Restricted Fund6 Deslgnalod Funds Total 4 Inv••tm•nt Incomo C8F deposll occounts Bank intfjreit 781 315 1.336 1.336 1,D96 $84 1,330 1,920 5 Othw ¢a•h r•¢•lpt• Councll Grants 1,500 1,500 1,500 Deanery Grant lor MIs61on Sundry Incorna Church Hall lundb r8celvod DonallonG for Flower6 Rèfunded VAT 56 120 120 2,154 385 957 2,665 2,685 641 868 288 F?IIow5hip Group 159 J.812 159 5,&53 5,340 2,141 6 Coil of g•n•rntlng voluntary Incom• Glft anvelopab 455 294 204 7 Fundrol•Snll ¢o•ts SL5mmer FetelAdv8nl Fayre Church magazlne Church Coffe8lCr¢8m T?a8 Concert8lFllrn NlghtslPBrlsh OullngB Parish BAr-b.qlHarvgs1 Lunch FlowerlChrlstm38 Trm Fesllv81 Church NoteletBIChurch 80okl¢ls 210 199 2.318 114 199 3,111 114 3,354 68 795 942 2,261 448 2,261 448 829 90 S,281 6.338 795 6.1 JJ InvMtm*nl manAg•m•nt ro•t• Inv881munl 8dvlc• g Chur¢h icllvltl•i Padsh Shgre Church runnlng costs.. HeatlnglLlghtinglW8lerlCle8nlng Church HBII expèn8e8 Repalr¥ Insur8nce Flmrs 59.931 59,597 59,597 10,395 2,047 9,836 6,707 1,065 504 7,070 1,649 3,669 6,926 623 7,070 1,649 3,869 6,926 1,264 398 641 Organ Mainlenynco Exl8Ung Churchyard & Grounds Church Equlpmènl Clergy Expenses Cost of S8rvico8 10 O'clDck Clublyoung Paople's Mlnl$lry Deanery fees Fellowshlp GTQUP NÈW Churchyard Use of Deanery Grant Sundry Padsh Expenses 396 2,572 114 2,376 1,550 4,122 114 1.131 3,074 1,446 320 219 1,404 3.586 671 1,404 3,586 729 320 90 320 90 522 428 89,115 Pag• 4 428 99,572 2,191 58 91,364

St Dunstan's Church, Monks Risborough Parochial Church Councll Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 Notes to the flnanclal statements 2023 IRe61•tedl UnrB8trlcted Funds Reslrict8d Funds Designated FundB Total 10 Ch•rftabl• don•iton$ 12,800 12,800 11,200 11.200 11,200 11,200 11 Chur¢h mJn8g•m•nt and idmlnl•tr•tlon Computer costs P￿nts'n9 & 8t81ion8ry 67 80 80 80 67 80 12 (Xh•r P•yTll•nt• 1,318 Speclal Payrnanl8 Extraordlnory paym8nl8 445 445 1,318 445 445 13 Fund mov•m•nts R•c•lpt• P•ym•nts Ai 31112124 ,074 G•n•rnl Fund• 108,313 106,027 286 3,871 Reitrlct•d lund• 13,881 3,431 10,230 781 D•¥lgnit•d Fund 2.336 58 2,278 4,984 T¢)tal lund mov•m•nt• 121,310 109,616 12,794 Pag• 5

Independent examiners report to the trustees of St Dunstan's Church, Monks Risborough I report to the Tn￿teeS on my examination of the accounts of St Dunstan's, Monks Risborough (St Dunstan's) for the year ended 31 December 2024 set out on pages I to 5. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner The church's trustees. the PCC, are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act). I report in respect of my examination of St Dunstan's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 201 l Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Act). Independent examiner's statement I have completed my examination. I confinn that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with my examination givin8 me cause to believe that in, any material respect: accounting records were not kept in respect of St Dunstan's as required by section 130 of the Act. the accounts do not accord with those records; or the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the fonn and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations ?008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair, view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Signed: Ann Preston Professional qualification FCA Date: 13th March 2025