## The Parish of Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Parochial Church Council (Registered Charity 1155524) for the year ended 31st December 2023 Vicar  - Rev Jackie Fountain (from 28th November 2023) 

**==> picture [539 x 75] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [539 x 75] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [539 x 75] intentionally omitted <==**

## Bank 

Nat West Reading Oracle Unit L11, The Oracle Shopping Centre, Reading, RG1 2AG Independent Examiner Mr David Marett  FCA CTA 5 Jennets Close, Tutts Clump, RG7 6JZ 

## And minutes 

Of the meeting of Parishioners held on 23rd April 2023 Of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 23rd April 2023 



**==> picture [520 x 193] intentionally omitted <==**

**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Contents<br>Pages 3-5  Annual report<br>Page 6-8  Treasurer’s financial review<br>Pages 9-13  Financial statements<br>Page 14-15  Budget for 2024<br>Page 16   Independent Examiner Report<br>Page 17   Minutes of the Meeting of Parishioners on 23rd April 2023<br>Page 18-19  Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 23rd April 2023<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus ANNUAL REPORT 2023 

## AIMS AND PURPOSE 

Our parish purpose is ‘To worship God and show Jesus' love makes a difference in reaching, serving and caring.’ 

The PCC is responsible, together with the appointed vicar, for the vision and mission of our church, To do this we seek God’s will, ensure we operate within a legal framework and take responsibility for the financial stability of the church, all under God’s authority. 

## BACKGROUND 

During 2023, the parish was for the most part in vacancy following the retirement of the previous incumbent, Gill Rowell, on 30th November 2022.  A significant activity, with the support of the diocese, was therefore the process to appoint a new vicar, including a listening exercise to discern what church members and the community were looking for, reassessing our vision, producing the parish profile, and advertising and interviewing.  The parish were thrilled to welcome Jackie Fountain as the new vicar on November 28th 2023. 

Thanks to the dedication and hard work of church members, together with the support of local clergy, the worship and activities at St Catherine’s continued during the vacancy.  Indeed many church members grew in their faith and  stepped up to take on additional responsibilities. 

## WORSHIP 

The PCC, whilst recognising that the service structure might benefit from a review, determined to continue with the existing pattern of Holy Communion, All Age Worship (followed by short spoken Communion), Family Communion and Word and Worship (followed by short spoken Communion) through the four Sundays in the month, with the opportunity to do something different on any fifth Sunday in the month.  Any review of the service structure was left until after the appointment of the new vicar.  Additionally, a weekly Wednesday Holy Communion service was held. 

In 2023 the services largely followed the lectionary.  This was all possible thanks to the tremendous support provided not only by our own leadership team but also by local clergy and musicians.  Church members benefitted from a rich variety of teaching provided by the different clergy and lay preachers. Attendance at these services remained similar to 2022, with a small increase in numbers, and services continued to be live streamed for the benefit of those unable to attend in person. 

During July and August, the Sunday services as in recent years were held outdoors under the Oak Tree. The theme of Kings was adopted, studying selected Kings from both the Old and New Testament.  The disappointing weather rendered the holding of outdoor services a significant challenge, and many had to be held indoors. 

The Easter Services included both a Good Friday family activity service and a meditation service. 

Christmas was a busy time with not only a 10am Christmas Eve and Christmas Day service, but also a Christingle, community Carols under the Oak Tree attended by well over a hundred,  9 Lessons and Carols and a Nativity Service.  Special services included a Shoebox Appeal, a Coronation service including a scouts parade, a Leprosy Mission service, a Harvest festival and a service based on Thy Kingdom Come material. 

Friday Tots Praise has continued during term time thanks to our faithful volunteers. 

## RITES OF PASSAGE 

Two funerals were held in church, including that of Beryl Nunn, a much-loved member of the congregation.  No crematorium only services were held. 

One marriage service of two church members took place in October. 

Three baptisms took place. 

(Continued on page 4) 

Page 3 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

(Continued from page 3) 

## PRAYER 

Prayer has continued to be a key activity as we seek to discern and follow God’s direction.  The following specific prayer activities have taken place, in addition to the inclusion of prayer in our services and meetings: 

The prayer ministry team continued to offer prayer to individuals after the Sunday service 

Weekly community prayer meetings take place every Thursday 

A monthly early morning prayer meeting, started in 2022, continued to be held every 3rd Sunday in the month, each meeting focussing on two selected church activities, one of the four missions supported, and one UK/global topic 

The monthly Calcot prayer walk and litter pick has been ongoing despite limited attendance as we continue to seek God’s direction on our Calcot activities. 

## THE CENTRE 

The centre, including the café and church hall are a great blessing and an amazing place to share God’s love and hospitality both in and outside the worshipping community.  They offer a place of safety and for friendships to thrive as well as a space for holding community events - all made possible by our hard working café manager, centre manager and volunteers.  During the year, we were sad to see our café manager leave, resulting in a reduced café menu for a few months and more work for our hard-pressed volunteers!  A new café manager was welcomed in September. 

Church hall bookings remained steady and have in part mitigated the loss of income from the demise of the pre-school in December 2022. 

## LIFEGROUPS 

The seven Lifegroups, coordinated by the Lifegroup co-ordinator and attended by some 50 people, have continued to meet regularly, either weekly or fortnightly, offering fellowship, mutual support and the opportunity to grow in faith.  The weekly sermon notes produced by the Sunday preacher provides common discussion material for all groups. These groups have also provided a mechanism to provide pastoral care for those church members who do not attend a Lifegroup.  We would love to see more people join these Lifegroups. 

## ACTIVITIES 

The church fellowship organise a wide range of activities, much appreciated by those who attend – space does not allow them all to be listed.  Tuesday Get Together and Friday Friends provides friendship for the older age group, whilst Toddlers 0-5s is for the younger age range.  There are many other specific groups such as Book Club, Crafty Space, and Bowls, whilst the gardening and building maintenance teams do wonders in providing a well-kept welcoming space for us all.  Sadly Pick N Mix closed in the autumn as some moved on, leaving too few for the viability of the group. 

## HAVING FUN 

There was plenty of opportunity for the church membership and the community to have fun – with funds for the church raised at some events.  The events included a celebration of the coronation in sunny weather with a wide range of fun activities such as consuming delicious homemade cakes, children’s crafts and activities, quizzes, a treasure hunt, country dancing, selfie opportunities with a lifesize King and Queen look alike as well as the unveiling of a crafted wooden throne complete with Stone of Scone! Other opportunities included a sell-out Quiz night, as well as the ever popular Spring and Autumn fairs. 

(Continued on page 5) 

Page 4 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

(Continued from page 4) 

## INTO THE FUTURE 

As we look back on 2023, a year (less 2 days!) of vacancy, we are encouraged not only by the way God moulded us all into a team to work together to his glory, blessed by the support of some seventeen visiting clergy, and  a church community that stepped up and worked together in love to keep the church not only going but moving forward but also by His bringing of our new vicar to us.  And so we look forward in anticipation and excitement to see what God has in store for us in 2024 with Jackie Fountain, our new vicar, steering us as we go forward.  We are hopeful that we will all grow in our faith and our outreach, and that God will continue to direct us as we reach out to our community with a focus on youth. 

Lynn Stevens and Caroline Heron (Churchwardens) February 2024 

## PCC Members 

The names of the members of the Council who have served since the commencement of the 2023 financial year and until the date this report was approved are: 

## Ex officio members 

Incumbent Rev Jackie Fountain (as from 28th November 2023) LLM’s Mr Tony Bartlett (also elected as PCC secretary) Mr Mike Heather 

Deanery Synod rep. Mr Richard Canning 

Churchwardens Ms Caroline Heron Mrs Lynn Stevens (also Deanery Synod rep) 

## Elected Members 

Mrs Heather Addison (from 2023 APCM) Mrs Jean Almond (from 2023 APCM) 

Mrs Ella Robles Canning (also Deanery Synod rep) Mrs Emma Deacon 

Mrs Joanne Freeman (appointed as Treasurer by PCC) Mrs Sonia Ludford (also Centre Manager) Mr Stuart Poore (also Parish Administrator) Mrs Stephanie Walklate Mrs Katrina Yates (until APCM 2023) Mr Richard Yates (resigned 1st November 2023) 

## Minute taker to the PCC 

Mr Tony Bartlett 

## Bankers 

Nat West Reading Oracle Branch, Unit L11, The Oracle Shopping Centre, Reading, RG1 2AG 

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 8] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 9] intentionally omitted <==**

**==> picture [500 x 8] intentionally omitted <==**

Page 5 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

## The Financial Report for 2023 

## Receipts 

In 2023 our planned giving was similar to that received in 2022. In Lent we had a special Lenten appeal for funds towards St Catherine’s which raised £3,126, so thank you to everyone who so generously donated. However, it would be nice if we did not have to resort to special annual appeals for funds, so please can you all consider the amount of your regular giving to St Catherine’s. We also received some generous one-off donations during the year, those that were put in the plate are recorded in the Collections at services, those that were online donations are included in All other giving voluntary receipts. The All other giving … also includes the Lenten appeal funds. 

In 2023 we held two fetes; Summer (£1,444) and Christmas (£1,540)   – so £984 more than the budgeted amount.  We also held two special events – an Italian evening (£868) and a quiz night (£801). These events not only provided some much-needed additional income but they were all very enjoyable and attracted people from outside the church community. 

Unfortunately, in December 2022 St Catherine’s Preschool had to close. The loss of this regular rent left a gap in our income. Despite the hard work that was put into getting new users of the centre during the day, the Centre lettings were £7,500 less in 2023 than they had been in 2022. 

The miscellaneous refund of £1,018 related to insurance claims being made to repair both accessible toilets. 

## Payments 

In 2023 the Diocese of Oxford introduced a 10% discount on the Parish Share for parishes in vacancy. This resulted in a total saving of £5,554 over the year. 

We also had 7 weeks between our Café Managers which resulted in a saving of £1,000 in wages. 

As expected, the cost for both electricity and gas were more than last year; in both cases by around £1,000. 

Last year the maintenance costs were allocated to the church; this year it was decided that when the maintenance service affected both the church and the hall, such as work on the boiler, the cost would be split 50:50 between the church and the hall. Hence the increase in hall running costs. 

During the first eleven months of 2023 we were in a vacancy. We were blessed with many visiting clergy over this period. Clergy with Permission to Officiate who took services were entitled to be paid £43 per service taken. The PCC pay this money straight after these services and then reclaim the money back from the Diocese monthly. All visiting clergy are entitled to claim travelling expenses which is paid by the PCC. There were also some costs associated with seeking a new vicar. 

During the year the PCC decided to open two more bank accounts. 

An Instant Access Business Reserve account with Nat West. This will enable the PCC to get interest on money not currently needed to pay the regular bills. The current balance is £5,000. 

A 180 day investment account with United Trust Bank to hold money that will only be needed in an emergency. The current balance is £10,000. 

## End of year thoughts 

The good news is that there was a surplus of £7,447 at the end of the year. But it must be remembered that without the Parish Share 10% discount from the Diocese of £5,554, the Parish Share rebate of £1,777, a saving of £1,000 in Café Manager wages and no Quinquennial costs we would have made a loss. 

(Continued on page 7) 

Page 6 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

(Continued from page 6) 

Pages 14 and 15 show the actual totals at 31[st] December 2023 alongside their budgeted totals. On the far-right hand side you will see the budget that has in faith been set for 2024. Please note the final two lines on page 14 in the section headed RECEIPTS   - namely:-  ‘Fund Raising / Stewardship’ (£3,000) and Reserves/Donations(£6,900).  So, once again it is hoped that we will be able to have extra fund-raising events to help fill a predicted shortfall. However, after thoughtful consideration it was decided that asking for more than £3,000 in this way was not feasible and so felt the need to show that the only way we may be able to achieve a balance was to use our reserves. As a community we have either to increase our income or reduce our spend or use a combination of both, because if we do not our reserves will continually be depleted. 

Of particular note requiring each of us to consider carefully if we need to take action is the Planned Giving figure at the top of page 9 which remains similar to that in 2022. This consists of a combination of giving using the Parish Giving scheme and by Standing Orders.  Please, please can we all prayerfully consider what our monthly contribution to St Catherine’s should be. This does of course include volunteering around the church thus saving us from needing to employ someone say to mow the lawns or tend the flowers or sort out any issues inside the buildings. 

There are also plans for various fund raisers – please join in and help, if you have any ideas of any other fundraising ideas, please speak to one of the church wardens. 

Finally, as this is my last APCM as Treasurer I would like to thank everyone who has helped me over the past 13 years with counting, banking, sorting out the Gift Aid claims, invoicing our hirers and generally being very supportive.  I am sure that you will now support and help Sean East who has now taken over from me as Treasurer. 

## Reserves policy 

Oxford Diocesan Board of Finance (ODBF) recommend that the PCC’s reserves should be an amount equal to three months average spend. For us this would equate to £26,000. The current figure held is £15,000 – which equates to about one and three-quarter months cover. 

If you have any questions on this report please get in touch with the Treasurer, preferably a couple of days before the APCM. 

## The following will help you understand Pages 9 to 15 

Unrestricted funds contain money that the PCC can use for its general purposes. 

Designated funds contain money from unrestricted funds that the PCC has chosen to put aside for a particular purpose. The PCC can also decide to return any or all of this money to unrestricted funds. 

Restricted funds contain money that is received for a specific use such as donations to named charities. 

Endowment funds contain money that is a special form of restricted funds; in our case it refers to the money the PCC received after St Birinus was sold and is expendable and can be used to fund activities relating to mission in Calcot such as the weekly taxi service to and from the 10.00 am service at St Catherine’s when required. 

The totals from the 2022 report are there for comparison purposes. The figures in the report are required to be shown to the nearest pound. Pages 9 & 10 are a legal requirement, all the other pages are provided to give more details. 

(Continued on page 8) 

Page 7 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

(Continued from page 7) 

## Page 9 – Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023 

This page lists the receipts and payments for the year under categories that are required in the annual report to the Church of England. The fees for wedding and funerals, though they are not reported in this annual return do go through the PCC’s bank account, hence the need for a separate line on this page so that the bank balances at the start and the end of the year balance correctly. 

## Page 10– Statements of Assets and Liabilities 

Cash funds shows how the total funds of the PCC were held in our three Nat West bank accounts. 

Other monetary assets are money due to the PCC from activities in 2023 but not received / banked until 2024. 

Liabilities this is money in the PCC bank account for either, services they received in 2023 (such as gas) but will not pay for until 2024 or, money they received for other organisations such as charities, that will not be paid out until 2024. 

Note 2 shows the movements in the Designated Maintenance Reserves and the various categories of restricted funds during the year. 

## Page 11 – Note 3 Further Analysis of Receipts and Payments Accounts 

## Payments – note 3 d) 

Church & Centre utility bills comprise of Electricity, Gas, Waste disposal and network costs. 

Mission and evangelism consist of Tots Praise, DBS checks, 0 – 5 Toddlers, Training and Outreach. 

## Page 13 

## Mission Giving – note 3 f) 

The PCC has agreed to support our four named charities by giving a regular monthly amount with any underpayment of the 6% commitment being paid out at the start of the following year. 

Joanne Freeman Treasurer to the PCC 6[th] February 2024 

Page 8 



## **Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus** 

## Financial Statements for the Period Ended 31 December 2023 Receipts and Payment Accounts 

|Receipts and Payment Accounts|Receipts and Payment Accounts|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Unrestricted<br>Note<br>funds<br>£<br>RECEIPTS<br>Voluntary receipts:<br>Planned giving<br>39,766<br> Collections at services<br>4,179<br> All other giving/voluntary receipts3 a)<br>8,149<br> Gift Aid recovered<br>9,551<br> <br>61,645<br>Activities for generating funds           3 b)<br>4,970<br>Investment income<br>26<br>Church activities<br>3 c)<br>44,818<br> Total receipts<br>111,459<br>PAYMENTS<br>Church activities<br>Diocesan parish share<br>54,428<br>Clergy and staffing costs<br>2,596<br>Church running expenses<br> 3 d)<br>20,127<br>Hall  running costs<br>11,097<br>Café running costs<br>12,577<br>Mission giving and donations<br> 3 f)<br>3,026<br>Costs of generating funds<br>161<br> Totalpayments<br>104,012<br>Cash at bank and in hand at 1 January<br>16,314<br>Funds transfers<br>2<br>Excess of receipts over payments<br>7,447<br>as above<br>Cash at bank and in hand<br>at 31 December<br>24,067<br>Fees - funerals and locums<br>surplus / deficit see Note 3 e)||Restricted<br>funds<br>£<br>1,150<br>1,150<br>217<br>1,018<br>2,385|Endowment<br>funds<br>£<br>0<br>0<br>0<br>|TOTAL<br>2023<br>£<br>39,766<br>4,179<br>9,299<br>9,551<br>62,795<br>5,187<br>26<br>45,836<br>113,844|TOTAL<br>2022<br>£<br>39,069<br>2,564<br>12,025<br>8,736|
||||||62,394<br>4,622<br>0<br>51,399|
||||||118,415|
||54,428<br>2,596<br> <br>20,127<br>11,097<br>12,577<br> <br>3,026<br>161<br>104,012|38<br>261<br>1,018<br>122<br>1,119<br>216<br>2,774|523<br>523<br>|54,428<br>2,634<br>20,911<br>12,115<br>12,699<br>4,145<br>377<br>107,309|58,826<br>2,625<br>25,687<br>8,489<br>14,249<br>5,338<br>158|
||||||115,372|
||16,314<br>7,447<br>24,067|5,481<br>-306<br>-389<br>242<br>5,028|2,598<br>-523<br>2,075|24,393<br>6,535<br>242<br>31,170|21,852<br>3,043<br>-502|
||||||24,393|



Page 9 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus Statements of Assets and Liabilities 

|Note<br>Assets<br>Cash Funds<br>Nat West Bank Accounts<br>Investments<br>Other monetary assets<br>Parish Share rebate for previous year<br>Cost of Locums during  vacancy<br>Gift Aid recoverable for previous year<br>Hall rent due for previous year<br>Liabilities<br>Electricity and Gas<br>Optimal-test of fire alarm system<br>Select Waste Disposal<br>0 - 5s rent<br>Coffee money<br>Mission giving due for previous year<br>Ripple Effect|Unrestricted<br> <br>funds<br>£<br>17,267<br>6,800<br>24,067<br>1,515<br>0<br>304<br>3,523<br>5,342<br>1,476<br>156<br>330<br>304<br>2,266|Restricted<br>funds<br>£<br>2,928<br>2,100<br>5,028<br>0<br>414<br>414|Endowment<br>funds<br>£<br>975<br>1,100<br>2,075<br>0<br>0|TOTAL<br>2023<br>£<br>21,170<br>10,000<br>31,170<br>1,515<br>0<br>304<br>3,523<br>5,342<br>1,476<br>0<br>156<br>330<br>0<br>304<br>414<br>2,680|TOTAL<br>2022<br>£<br>24,393<br>0|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||24,393|
||||||1,777<br>166<br>324<br>2,419|
||||||4,686|
||||||929<br>312<br>146<br>129<br>306<br>64<br>755|
||||||2,641|



## Notes 

- 1 The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis 

- 2 The movements in designated and restricted funds during the year were:- 

|Designated<br>Maintenance Reserves<br>Restricted<br>Maintenance Reserves<br>Café<br>Cornwell 0 to 5 s<br>Donations to charities<br>Specials<br>Totals without ODBF funds<br>ODBF balancing figureNote 3 e)|Bal b/fwd<br>01/01/2023<br>11,215<br>1,800<br>58<br>1,265<br>1,125<br>1,399<br>5,647<br>-166<br>5,481|Receipts<br>1,777<br>300<br>10<br>786<br>1,289<br>2,385<br>2,634<br>5,019|Payments<br> <br>68<br>196<br>1,119<br>1,392<br>2,775<br>2,392<br>5,167|Transfers<br>-306<br>-306<br>-306|Bal c/fwd<br>31/12/2023<br>12,992<br>2,100<br>0<br>1,069<br>486<br>1,296|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||4,951|
||||||76|
||||||5,027|



ODBF - Oxford Diocesan Board of Finance 

The donations to charities and specials funds are the result of donations given to specific appeals 

Page 10 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

## Note 3 Further Analysis of Receipts and Payments Accounts 

|Unrestricted<br>funds<br>£<br>Receipts<br>a)<br>All other giving/voluntary receipts<br>Donations<br>8,149<br>8,149<br>b)<br>Activities for generating funds<br>Parish magazine - advertising<br>317<br>Summer and Christmas fetes<br>2,984<br>Special events<br>1,669<br>4,970<br>c)<br>Church activities<br>Fees for weddings and funerals<br>460<br>Parish magazine - sales<br>620<br>Centre lettings<br>20,408<br>Café income<br>16,297<br>Tuesday Get Together<br>740<br>Friday Friends<br>1,140<br>Cornwell 0 - 5 s<br>3,376<br>Parish Share rebate<br>1,777<br>Misc refunds<br>44,818<br>Payments<br>d)<br>Church running expenses<br>Centre utility bills<br>8,523<br>Insurance<br>1,849<br>Hospitality<br>24<br>Equipment<br>0<br>Magazine<br>1,352<br>Stationery<br>1,242<br>Centre maintenance<br>2,821<br>Upkeep of church grounds<br>0<br>Upkeep of services<br>1,351<br>Mission and evangelism costs<br>2,486<br>Administration<br>359<br>Independent Examiner<br>120<br>20,127|Restricted<br>funds<br>£<br>1,150<br>1,150<br>217<br>217<br>1,018<br>1,018<br>65<br>196<br>261|Endowment<br>funds<br>£<br>0<br>0<br>0<br>0<br>523<br>523|TOTAL<br>2023<br>£<br>9,299<br>9,299<br>317<br>3,201<br>1,669<br>5,187<br>460<br>620<br>20,408<br>16,297<br>740<br>1,140<br>3,376<br>1,777<br>1,018<br>45,836<br>8,523<br>1,849<br>24<br>65<br>1,352<br>1,242<br>2,821<br>0<br>1,351<br>3,205<br>359<br>120<br>20,911|TOTAL<br>2022<br>£<br>12,025|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||12,025|
|||||73<br>3,735<br>814|
|||||4,622|
|||||66<br>586<br>27,975<br>15,756<br>502<br>1,312<br>2,800<br>1,783<br>619|
|||||51,399|
|||||6,431<br>1,691<br>95<br>1,190<br>1,339<br>1,162<br>5,099<br>3,462<br>1,180<br>3,598<br>320<br>120|
|||||25,687|



Page 11 



Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

Further Analysis of Receipts and Payments Accounts 

## Note 3 

|Further Analysis of Receipts and Payments Accounts<br>Note 3||
|---|---|
|2023<br>£<br>e)<br>Oxford Diocesan Board of Finance (ODBF) fee workings<br>Receipts<br>Funeral fees received by PCC due to others<br>404<br>Locum service fees reimbursed by ODBF<br>2,230<br>2,634<br>Payments<br>funeral fees paid to ODBF<br>49<br>funeral expenses<br>126<br>wedding expenses<br>153<br>service fees paid to locums in vacancy<br>2,064<br>2,392<br>surplus/deficit<br>242|2022<br>£<br>1,699<br>0|
||1,699<br>1,836<br>199<br>0<br>166|
||2,201<br>-502|



Page 12 



Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

## Further Analysis of Receipts and Payments Accounts 

## Note 3 

|f)<br>Mission Giving<br>2023<br>2023<br>planned<br>extra<br>£<br>£<br>Overseas Mission Societies<br>Leprosy Mission<br>750.00<br>Novi Most<br>750.00<br>1,500.00<br>0.00<br>Relief & Development Agencies<br>Ukraine Relief Fund<br>Pakistan Flood Relief<br>Ripple Effect<br>1.00<br>755.00<br>Tear Fund<br>320.00<br>1.00<br>1,075.00<br>Home Missions<br>Berkshire Churches Trust<br>25.00<br>CCA<br>750.00<br>Childrens Society<br>750.00<br>43.93<br>Faith<br>1,525.00<br>43.93<br>Secular Charities<br>0.00<br>0.00<br>TOTAL<br>3,026.00<br>1,118.93|2022<br>2022<br>planned<br>extra<br>£<br>£<br>762.50<br>213.00<br>762.50<br>23.50|
|---|---|
||1,525.00<br>236.50|
||588.60<br>390.50<br>16.50<br>683.50<br>240.00|
||16.50<br>1,902.60|
||25.00<br>762.50<br>23.50<br>762.50<br>23.50<br>60.00|
||1,550.00<br>107.00|
|||
||0.00<br>0.00|
||3,091.50<br>2,246.10|



NB 2022 Planned mission giving includes the £170 owed for 6% planned mission giving for 2021 

2023 Planned mission giving includes the £120 owed for 6% planned mission giving for 2022 

I have chosen to leave this page of the report showing the pence figures rather than rounding to the nearest pound.  This is because most of the figures in 2022 end in 50p and rounding to the nearest pound makes nonsense of the figures. 

Page 13 



## Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

## BUDGET AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 - 52 WEEKS 

|RECEIPTS<br>Voluntary receipts<br>Parish Giving scheme GA<br>Parish Giving scheme NGA<br>Standing Orders Gift Aided<br>Standing Orders  Non Gift Aided<br>Tax Rebate - PGS<br>Tax Rebate - non PGS<br>Plate<br>General Donations<br>Coffee Money<br>Donations - SumUp<br>Café donation box<br>Total<br>Other receipts<br>Magazine Advertising<br>Fetes<br>Special events<br>Net Fees<br>Interest<br>0-5 s Toddlers<br>Tuesday Get Together<br>Friday Friends<br>Magazine Sales<br>Centre Lettings<br>Café Sales<br>Parish Share Rebate<br>Fund raising / Stewardship<br>Reserves / Donations<br>TOTAL RECEIPTS<br>Excess of receipts over payments<br>Church activities<br>Other activities<br>All activities<br>Hall<br>Café<br>01/01/2023<br>balance of reserves<br>end of period plus profit/less deficit<br>Total|RECEIPTS<br>Voluntary receipts<br>Parish Giving scheme GA<br>Parish Giving scheme NGA<br>Standing Orders Gift Aided<br>Standing Orders  Non Gift Aided<br>Tax Rebate - PGS<br>Tax Rebate - non PGS<br>Plate<br>General Donations<br>Coffee Money<br>Donations - SumUp<br>Café donation box<br>Total<br>Other receipts<br>Magazine Advertising<br>Fetes<br>Special events<br>Net Fees<br>Interest<br>0-5 s Toddlers<br>Tuesday Get Together<br>Friday Friends<br>Magazine Sales<br>Centre Lettings<br>Café Sales<br>Parish Share Rebate<br>Fund raising / Stewardship<br>Reserves / Donations<br>TOTAL RECEIPTS<br>Excess of receipts over payments<br>Church activities<br>Other activities<br>All activities<br>Hall<br>Café<br>01/01/2023<br>balance of reserves<br>end of period plus profit/less deficit<br>Total|ACTUALS<br>BUDGET<br>VARIANCE<br>2023<br>2023<br>2023<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>31,182<br>31,500<br>-318<br>3,855<br>4,000<br>-145<br>2,880<br>3,060<br>-180<br>1,850<br>2,040<br>-190<br>7,795<br>7,930<br>-135<br>1,755<br>770<br>985<br>4,179<br>2,000<br>2,179<br>4,009<br>2,650<br>1,359<br>484<br>0<br>484<br>251<br>0<br>251<br>278<br>0<br>278|BUDGET<br>2024<br>£<br>33,600<br>3,600<br>3,000<br>2,000<br>8,400<br>1,500<br>2,500<br>1,500<br>500<br>0<br>400|
|---|---|---|---|
|||58,518<br>53,950<br>4,568|57,000|
|||||
|||317<br>400<br>-83<br>2,984<br>2,000<br>984<br>1,669<br>1,000<br>669<br>460<br>100<br>360<br>26<br>0<br>26<br>3,376<br>2,800<br>576<br>740<br>700<br>40<br>1,140<br>1,000<br>140<br>620<br>800<br>-180<br>20,408<br>26,000<br>-5,592<br>16,297<br>16,000<br>297<br>1,777<br>0<br>1,777<br>3,127<br>3,320<br>-193|400<br>3,000<br>2,000<br>100<br>0<br>3,200<br>700<br>1,000<br>800<br>20,000<br>17,000<br>0<br>3,000<br>6,900|
|||52,941<br>54,120<br>-1,179|58,100|
|||111,459<br>108,070<br>3,389|115,100|
|||||
||Excess of receipts over payments<br>Church activities<br>Other activities<br>All activities<br>Hall<br>Café|-17,985<br>-28,610<br>10,625<br>25,432<br>28,610<br>-3,178<br>7,447<br>0<br>7,447<br>9,311<br>18,000<br>-8,689<br>3,720<br>2,000<br>1,720|-31,000<br>31,000<br>0<br>12,000<br>2,000|
||01/01/2023<br>balance of reserves<br>end of period plus profit/less deficit|16,314<br>24,067||



Page 14 



Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus 

## BUDGET AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 - 52 WEEKS 

|PAYMENTS<br>Missions-missionary<br>Missions-relief<br>Missions-home<br>Missions-secular<br>Parish Share<br>Minister expenses<br>Visiting Clergy<br>Cost of New Vicar<br>LLM expenses<br>Honoraria<br>Training Outreach<br>Insurance<br>Church maintenance<br>Equipment<br>Upkeep of services<br>Church flowers<br>Hospitality<br>Upkeep of church grounds<br>Stationery<br>Administration<br>cost of fetes<br>Independent Examination<br>Electricity<br>Gas<br>Waste Disposal<br>Wifi<br>Total<br>Other costs<br>0 - 5 Toddlers<br>Youth Group<br>DBS checks<br>Magazine<br>Hall running costs<br>Café running costs<br>Total<br>TOTAL PAYMENTS<br>Church running expenses|ACTUALS<br>BUDGET<br>VARIANCE<br>2023<br>2023<br>2023<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>1,500<br>1,590<br>-90<br>1<br>0<br>1<br>1,525<br>1,620<br>-95<br>0<br>0<br>0<br>54,428<br>56,000<br>-1,572<br>286<br>550<br>-264<br>206<br>0<br>206<br>904<br>0<br>904<br>0<br>150<br>-150<br>1,200<br>1,200<br>0<br>3<br>100<br>-97<br>1,849<br>1,740<br>109<br>2,821<br>2,260<br>561<br>0<br>100<br>-100<br>1,301<br>900<br>401<br>50<br>50<br>0<br>24<br>100<br>-76<br>0<br>100<br>-100<br>1,242<br>1,200<br>42<br>359<br>200<br>159<br>161<br>60<br>101<br>120<br>120<br>0<br>3,691<br>4,600<br>-909<br>3,458<br>8,700<br>-5,242<br>858<br>720<br>138<br>516<br>500<br>16|BUDGET<br>2024<br>£<br>1,600<br>0<br>1,630<br>0<br>62,000<br>600<br>0<br>0<br>150<br>1,200<br>100<br>2,050<br>2,000<br>100<br>900<br>50<br>100<br>100<br>1,500<br>400<br>200<br>120<br>6,000<br>6,000<br>800<br>400|
|---|---|---|
||76,503<br>82,560<br>-6,057|88,000|
||||
||2,435<br>2,200<br>235<br>12<br>50<br>-38<br>36<br>60<br>-24<br>1,352<br>1,200<br>152<br>11,097<br>8,000<br>3,097<br>12,577<br>14,000<br>-1,423|2,500<br>50<br>50<br>1,500<br>8,000<br>15,000|
||27,509<br>25,510<br>1,999|27,100|
||||
||104,012<br>108,070<br>-4,058|115,100|



Page 15 



Independent Examinerfs Report to the Trustees of Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Blrlnus
Church, filehurst, Parochial Church Council
I report on the accounts for the year ended 31, December 2023 which are set out on pages 9 to 13
Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and Independent Emarniner
The church's trustees consider that an audit 15 not required for this year under section 144121 of the
Charities ALI 2011lthe 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to
examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act-
follow the procedures laid down in the General Dirertions given by the Charity
Commissioners Section 14515llbl of the 2011 Act: and
state whether particular matters have corne to my attention.
Basis of Independent Examlnerfs Statement
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions gNen by the Charity
Commission.
An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of
the account5 presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or
disclosures in the accounts. and seeking explanations from the management committee concerning
any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be
required in a full audit, and consequently I do not express on audit opinion on the accounts.
Independent Examinerfs Ststement
In connection with my examination, no matter5 have come to my attention
which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
to keep accounting records in accordance with s. 130 of the 2011 Act. or
to prepare accounts which accord with these accounting records have not been met;
or
2. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper
understanding of the accounts to be reached
David Marett, FCA CTA
5 Jennets Close.
Tutts Clump.
RG7 6JZ
th
4 April 2024
Page 16

Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus Minutes of Meeting of Parishioners – 23rd April 2023 

The meeting was held in St Catherine’s Church at 11.30am 

Present 29 parishioners 

1. Caroline Heron welcomed everyone and opening the meeting in prayer.  She explained that as we are in an interregnum and without a vicar, she is chairing the meeting. 

2. Apologies for absence had been received from: Rita Barrett, Ella Canning, Mary Hudson, Chris Jones, Sonia Ludford, Maureen Norman, Beryl Nunn, Stuart & Val Poore, David Stevens. 

3. The minutes of the Parish Meeting on 8th May 2022 were approved, proposed Richard Canning, seconded Mike Heather.  There were no matters arising. 

4. Election of Churchwardens. Lynn Stevens outlined her experiences of her first year as Churchwarden.  After Rev Gill retired, everyone had pulled together and played their part, it is love that draws us here.  2022 had been designated as a year of Prayer and we had endeavored bring prayer into all our activities.  We have tried to reach out more to our local community with the amazing Jubilee Jamboree and this year’s Coronation Celebrations to come.  It has been a challenging year with the Parish Profile now put together but with ongoing challenges to find cover for weekly services. 

With two nominations, both being willing to stand, and no last-minute nominations, Caroline Heron (proposed by Hilary Smee and Seconded by Chris Addison) and Lynn Stevens (proposed by Chris Addison and seconded by Evelyn Bartlett) were duly elected to serve as Churchwardens. Approved by all with applause. 

5. There was no other business and Richard Yates closed the meeting with prayer. 

The meeting concluded at 11.41am and we moved on to the Annual Parochial Church meeting 



Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting – 23rd April 2023 

The meeting was held in St Catherine’s Church immediately after the meeting for Parishioners Present 29 Parishioners 

## 1. Welcome & Prayer 

By Lynn Stevens 

## 2. Apologies for absence had been received from 

Rita Barrett, Ella Canning, Mary Hudson, Chris Jones, Sonia Ludford, Maureen Norman, Beryl Nunn, Stuart & Val Poore, David Stevens. 

## 3. Minutes of the APCM held on 8th May 2022 

Were approved, proposed Richard Canning, seconded Sue Burston. 

## 4. Matters arising 

None. 

## 5. Presentation of Annual Report and Financial Statements. 

Joanne Freeman went thought the report which had been previously distributed. 

Pages 5, 6 & 7 were written to explain where the various figures came from, there were no questions.  Joanne then went through the following pages: 

Page 8; statement by David Marrett the independent examiner 

Pages 9 & 10; these are a legal requirement with categories agree by the Church of England and the Charity Commission.  ‘Assets’ were monies due in 2022 but received in 2023 and ‘Liabilities’ were Gas and Electricity used but not yet paid for.  There were no questions. 

Page 11; breaks down income and expenditure into more detail.  There were no questions 

Page 12; sets out payment received in respect of fees due to the Oxford Diocesan Board of Finance for funerals etc.  It was questioned why the figures do not balance; this was due to timing issues. Page 13; missions giving, no questions. 

Pages 14 & 15; the budget for 2023.  This had been set at the end of November based on knowledge at that time and Joanne went through the various figures explaining the rationale. Closure of the St Catherine’s pre-school will result in a substantial loss of income and in addition to funding new hirers for the Church Hall, several fundraising events will be held in 2023. 

Fixed price contracts for Gas and Electricity will come to an end, repairs to the Boilers are needed. We do however, get a discount of £500 on the £62K Parish Share for every month we are without a vicar.  The Lent appeal raised £3k and it is hoped that we can balance income and expenditure in 2023.  Caroline Heron thanked Joanne on behalf of the Parish. 

## 6. Presentation of the Annual Report by the PCC 

Pages 1-4 of the booklet is a review of the year and Caroline highlighted a few things. 

The monthly pattern of services had been retained, thanks to the Leaders & Preachers team and visiting clergy.  Outreach services (outdoors in July & August weather permitting) and Carols Under the Oak Tree had been put on and attracted a large crowd.  2022 was a year of prayer and activities including Thursday Prayer meeting, MU Prayer chain, Prayer Ministry team, continued.  There was a 24hour chain of prayer in September and a night vigil. 

A ‘Third Saturday of the Month’ prayer meeting has been introduced, supported by a few people; more would be good.  Also, the Calcot Prayer walk & Litter pick.  Nurturing our faith; re-invigorating 

(Continued on page 19) 

**Page 1** 7 8 



Parochial Church Council Tilehurst St Catherine and Calcot St Birinus Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting – 23rd April 2023 

(Continued from page 18) 

and expanding the Lifegroups with Emma Deacon coordinating to give everyone the opportunity of joining one with all the benefits of sharing one’s faith and encouraging one another.  Outreach; café & Centre a central part of this, need to expand and reach out. 

Caroline thanked everyone for what they do and pointed out the small green booklet detailing the activities.  She highlighted two reports by Richard Canning; Deanery Synod and Buildings.  In respect of the latter a huge debt of thanks is due to Richard and Chris Addison for all the work they do.  The Quinquennial report suggested that insulating the Sanctuary would reduce heat loss.  Caroline also thanked Peter Broomfield in respect of electrical work and advice.  Hazel And the team who maintain the grounds. 

## 7. Vicar’s address, by Caroline Heron 

2022 a year of huge change; Gill’s departure the big event with an emotional service.  She left us with a commission at that service from Philippians 4:8-9 which was ‘Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.’ 

Last year Caroline described the role of the Churchwarden as like oil in a machine and 2022 was the same.  She outlined progress in appointed a new vicar; at the ‘Section 11’ meeting she and Lynn Stevens were appointed as reps for the PCC at an interview, the Parish Profile had been written after a listening exercise among the congregation and a copy had gone to the Diocese for review. The ‘section 12’meeting on 9th May is to review and approve it, the advertisement can then go out with interviews hoped for in mid-July, assuming a successful candidate has to give 3 months’ notice we could be looking at a new incumbent October/November at the earliest. 

8. Electoral roll 

Stuart Poore, the Electoral Roll Officer, had reported in the reports booklet but was able to give updated figures.  As at the date of the meeting there were 119 names on the role.  Since last year 2 had died and 14 were added. 

9. Election of PCC members. 

Stuart Poore, Richard & Katrina Yates have completed their 3-year term but for continuity Stuart and Richard had agreed to stay on for another term.  There were nominations for three new PCC members; Heather Addison, Jean Almond, and Ella Canning.  All present were in favour. 

## 10. Election of Deanery Synod members. 

Lynn Stevens, Richard & Ella Canning will continue. 

## 11. Appointment of Independent examiner 

David Marett is willing to continue; Proposed that he be appointed by Chris Addison, seconded Sue Burston, all in favour. 

## 12. Any other business. 

None 

The meeting closed at 12.22pm with closing Prayer by Mike Heather