Company Registration Number - 08931493
The Charity Registration Number is :- 1157924
Airfield Research Group Ltd Report and Accounts 31 December 2023
Haden Chartered Accountants Rookery Nook Chapel Lane Osmington Dorset DT3 6ET
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Report and accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
Contents
| Page | ||
|---|---|---|
| from | To | |
| Trustees' Annual Report | 1 - | 8 |
| Accountants' report | 9 - | 9 |
| Funds Statements:- | ||
| Statement of Financial Activities(SOFA) | 10 - | 10 |
| Statement of Financial Activities - Prior Year statement | 11 - | 11 |
| Movements in funds | 12 - | 12 |
| Summary of funds | 12 - | 12 |
| Income and Expenditure account | 13 - | 13 |
| Balance sheet | 14 - | 14 |
| Notes to the accounts | 15 - | 25 |
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Company Registration Number - 08931493
Trustees' Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023
The Trustees present their Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023, which also comprises the Directors' Report required by the the Companies Act 2006.
Reference and administrative details
The charity name.
The legal name of the charity is:- Airfield Research Group Ltd
The charity is also known by its operating name, N/A
The charity's areas operation and UK charitable registration.
The charity is registered in England & Wales with the Charity Commission in England & Wales (CCEW) with charity number 1157924
Legal structure of the charity
The governing document of the charity is the Memorandum and Articles of Association establishing the company under company legislation.
By operation of law, all trustees are directors under the Companies Act 2006 and all directors are trustees under Charities legislation and have responsibilities, as such, under both company and charity legislation.
The principal operating address, email and web addresses of the charity are:-
Building 1008 Alconbury Weald Alconbury, Huntingdon PE28 4WX
Email Address corporate@airfieldresearchgroup.org.uk Web address www.airfieldresearchgroup.org.uk
The registered office of the charity for Companies Act purposes is the same as the operating address shown above
The Trustees in office on the date the report was approved were:-
Paul Francis (Chairman) Norman R Brice (Finance Director) Peter J Howarth (Company Secretary) Jeffrey A Hawley (Vice Chairman) Sarah J Botfield Jayne Wright John C Gilby
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The following persons served as Trustees during the year ended 31 December 2023 :-
The trustees who served as a trustee in the reporting period, and, if applicable, their dates of appointment or resignation during the year were:-.
Name Appointed Resigned/Retired Paul Francis Norman R Brice Peter J Howarth Paul G Bellamy 15/01/24 Jeffrey A Hawley Sarah J Botfield Jayne Wright John C Gilby
Name
At the Annual General Meeting Sarah Jayne Botfield, Paul Francis and Peter Howarth retire as Trustees in rotation. All three, being eligible, offer themselves for election.
All the trustees are also directors and members of the charity.
Objects and activities of the charity
The purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document.
The objects of the charity are to advance the education of the general public by carrying out research into, and maintaining records of, military and civilian airfields and related infrastructure, both current and historic, anywhere in the world.
The Trustees consider that the charity's objectives are for the public benefit and its activities, achievements and performance are consistent with its objectives having had regard to Charity Commission guidance.
In furtherance of the charity's objectives, the Trustees may:
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acquire and display exhibits and artefacts, and make the same available for research to interested parties;
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carry out research in relation to such airfields and related infrastructure for the purpose of education of the public by dissemination of the useful results of the research;
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provide educational facilities and assistance to young people by establishing contacts with educational institutions, youth clubs, societies etc.; and
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cause to be written and printed or otherwise reproduce and circulate, gratuitously or otherwise, such papers, periodicals, pamphlets or other documents or films or recorded tapes (whether audio or visual or both) and to store and make available such materials to the public.
The main activities undertaken in relation to those purposes during the year.
The charity has a number of broad categories of activity: pure research; applied research; education/outreach; and promoting the charity. It achieves these by the quarterly publication of the magazine Airfield Review; maintenance and expansion of the Archive; maintenance of the internet web site; visits to airfield-related locations; stands at major aviation-related venues; and public displays and talks. The website sets out the full range of our activities and dispalys examples of the research documents available.
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The main activities undertaken during the year to further the charity's purpose for the public benefit.
The Trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in managing the activities of the charity.
The main achievements and performance of the charity during the year.
Airfield Research Group have completed two commissioned detailed reports on the area forming the north side of the runway at Alconbury Weald. We have also provided two further reports in connection with the former flight-line buildings of RAF Alconbury. One containing advice on two Grade 2 listed aircraft hangars and two unlisted hangars for the developer Urban & Civic plc, the other report is a comprehensive list of heritage assets (fixtures and fittings) that were recommended to be recovered prior to the demolition phase of the redevelopment project.
Modest progress has been made on the physical archive, At the end of the financial year the main catalogue had 8,000 entries. The county series maps archive has catalogued 2,400 maps (less than half of the collection).
We continue to support other heritage organisations with free research and advice in connection with buildings, planning and recording.
Similar to previous years, ARG ran a programme of member visits throughout the year to locations of interest, including active and disused airfields (RAF Cranwell, Barton Aerodrome, Hooton Park, RAF Raydon) and other related sites such as military hospitals and underground aircraft factories (Shorts’ Tunnels, Nocton Hall Hospital). All visits were generally well attended and a benefit to ARG membership. Visits also provide the opportunity for members from all over the UK to meet up and socialise whilst viewing locations of common interest.
ARG held its third Annual Members Day on 24 September 2023 at the extensive Bentwaters Cold War Museum in Suffolk. This day is offered free of charge to full ARG members and forms one of many member benefits. Twenty five members and quests attended the day which consisted of two informative presentations, the company AGM, refreshments, then an extended minibus tour around the former Cold War airfield to view many of the extant buildings, including the museum’s hangar of restored aircraft.
In October, ARG supported the second Cold War Network (CWN) Meeting at Alconbury Weald, sharing our experiences of developing the ARG and exploring ways to support the Network. ARG are are now founding members of the CWN Steering Group, which is chaired by Dr Peter Robinson from Leeds Beckett University. Peter is also our ARG Education and Outreach officer. This has provided opportunity for the charity to develop mutually beneficial outcomes for CWN and ARG around education and to share our work with the wider network.
The difference the charity's performance during the year has made to the beneficiaries of the charity.
Airfield Research Group does not specify classes of people to qualify as “beneficiaries”. We are open to provide information to anybody who asks and a description of our benefit to wider society (which is the same as “beneficiaries”) follows below.
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The degree to which the achievements and performance during the year have benefited wider society.
ARG integrates closely into both the local community and like-minded charities and similar bodies.
ARG is a founding member of the Alconbury Weald Heritage Committee based at Alconbury Weald, which is in partnership with Cambridge County Council, Huntingdon District Council and developer Urban & Civic plc. to advise on the 20th century military architecture and history of the former airbase and to assist with decisions for the future use of the property, which will enhance the knowledge of both residents of the new development and the surrounding community. Also an active member of the Alconbury Weald Business Group.
ARG is a member of Aviation Heritage UK, Association of Independent Museums and East Anglian Aviation Heritage Network.
ARG has given advice on buildings to bodies ranging from major national organisations to Parish Councils and private individuals
The Group continues to receive enquiries from the internet or previous contacts, each of which is answered by a volunteer. The range of enquirers and subjects remains extremely broad, including: museums and special interest groups, mainly in the UK but also including in the USA, given RAF Alconbury's long association with the United States Air Force; planning authorities and applicants; also, increasingly, members of the public researching their relatives' military service. The Group offers to give presentations and displays to schools and local societies. Answers are drawn from documents, photographs, plans etc. in the Archive and from the extensive knowledge of volunteers. The website forum generates significant levels of traffic and is a source of new material and knowledge.
ARG Trustees and members give tours and presentations, including to schools and youth groups, on aviation heritage.
Three Road Shows were presented to broaden public awareness of ARG, recruit new members and raise funds through the sale of donated books.
4
Structure, governance and management of the charity
The methods used to recruit and appoint new charity trustees.
The appointment of Trustees is as set out in the Articles of Association. At the first Annual General Meeting, all the Trustees retired from office and were re-elected. At each subsequent annual general meeting one-third of the Trustees (or the nearest number thereto) must retire from office. A retiring Trustee is eligible for re-election by the members.
The policies and procedures for the induction and training of trustees.
New Trustees are briefed informally on their legal obligations under charity and company law, the content of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, decision making processes, and recent financial performance of the charity.
The charity's organisational structure.
Airfield Research Group Ltd is a company limited by guarantee governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. It is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission. Anyone can become a member of the company. At the end of 2023 there were 266 members who each undertake to contribute an amount not exceeding £10 in the event of a winding up or a dissolution of the charity. A Board of Trustees of not fewer than 3 administers the charity, supported by Officers who undertake specific roles, such as Archive, Road Shows, Membership and Editor of Airfield Review.
Your Trustees continue to be concerned at the falling membership and paucity of volunteers to assist in the management and running of the charity, a problem common to many volunteer groups. As older members leave, either through natural causes or economic hardship, they are not being replaced by younger generations. There seems nowadays to be an excessive dependence upon the internet and an expectation that these have no costs.
Accountants
Haden Chartered Accountants, Rookery Nook, Chapel Lane, Osmington, Dorset DT3 6ET
5
Financial review
The charity's financial position at the end of the year ended 31 December 2023
The financial position of the charity at 31 December 2023 and comparatives for the prior period, as more fully detailed in the accounts, can be summarised as follows:-
| Total Funds Unrestricted Revenue Funds available for the general purposes of the charity Net income/(expenditure) |
2023 £ 4,819 36,761 36,761 |
2022 £ (1,304) 31,942 31,942 |
|---|---|---|
Financial review of the position at the reporting date, 31 December 2023 .
The income and expenditure account shows a surplus of £4,819. Cash balances increased by £7,603 to £32,259. Stock of books went down from 354 at the end of 2022 to 251 valued at cost at £2,079. Balance Sheet also includes accrued costs relating to 2023 but paid for in 2024 of £2,810.
Total funds at year end were £36,761 (prior year £31,942).
Overall, the Trustees consider the financial performance by the charity during the year to have been adequate. However, for as long as the charity is overwhelmingly dependent for income upon membership subscriptions, the outcome of surplus/loss will remain finely balanced.
For 2024, your Trustees are anticipating a balance on day-to-day running costs. Additionally we aim to spend some of the donations received in this and previous years on charitable activities, which will naturally deplete reserves.
With the additional costs incurred in maintaining Building 1008, the Trustees recognise that this is a precarious existence which is not sustainable in the longer-term. Accordingly, the Board is actively seeking to increase membership and is seeking additional sources of income, not excluding grants, as well as remunerated consultancy work for commercial organisations, drawing upon extensive knowledge held by Trustees personally and the vast archives of often unique archival material.
Recent events
Development work by our landlords across the whole airfield site has resulted in the temporary disconnection of essential utilities to building 1008, requiring ARG to close it to the public. However, members are able to continue vital work in cataloguing archival material.
Policies on reserves.
The Trustees have reviewed the reserves of the charity. The review considered the nature of the charity's anticipated income and expenditure streams and the need to match variable income with any fixed commitments.
The unrestricted reserves of the Charity at the 31st of December 2023 amounted to £36,761 and are considered sufficient to meet the charity's ongoing unrestricted charitable expenditure as well as the longer term financing needs of the charity.
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Availability and adequacy of assets of each of the funds
The Board of Trustees is satisfied that the charity's assets are available and adequate to fulfil its obligations.
Statement of the Directors Trustees's Responsibilities
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the terms of the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Notwithstanding the explicit requirement in the extant statutory regulations,the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the SORP 2005, in view of the fact that the SORP 2005 has been withdrawn, the Trustees determined to interpret this responsibility as requiring them to follow current best practice and prepare the accounts according to the FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) 2015 (as amended by the Bulletin issued in February 2016) .
In particular, the Companies Act 2006 and charity law require the Board of Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity as at the end of the financial year and of the surplus or deficit of the charity. In preparing those financial statements the Board is required to :-
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to prepare the accounts in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law).
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select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business;
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state whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
The law requires that the trustees must not approve the accounts unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the surplus or deficit of the charity for the year.
The Trustees are also responsible for maintaining adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and which are sufficient to show and explain the charity's transactions and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006 and comply with regulations made under the Charities Act. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The Trustees are also responsible for the contents of the Trustees' report, and the statutory responsibility of the Reporting Accountant in relation to the Trustees' report is limited to examining the report and ensuring that , on the face of the report, there are no material inconsistencies with the figures disclosed in the financial statements.
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Method of preparation of accounts - Small company provisions
The financial statements are set out on pages 10 to 25. The financial statements have been prepared implementing the FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) 2015 (as amended by the Bulletin issued in October 2019) and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102, (effective 1st January 2019)
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006. applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on
29 July 2024
paul francis
30 Jul 2024
Paul Francis Director and Trustee
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Airfield Research Group Ltd
Report of the Independent Accountant to the Trustees of the charitable company on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
We report on the financial statements of Airfield Research Group Ltd for the year ended 31 December 2023, as set out on pages 11 to 26, which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Income and Expenditure Account, the Balance Sheet and the related notes. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and the Financial Reporting Standard 102, and the accounts have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) published by the Charity Commission in England & Wales (CCEW) , effective January 2019, (The SORP), under the historical cost convention, and in accordance with the accounting policies set out on page 16, which framework constitutes the applicable United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and the accountant
As described on page 7, the charitable company's Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts.
The Trustees consider that the audit requirement of Section 144(1) of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act) does not apply, and that there is no requirement in the memorandum and articles of the charity for the conducting of an audit, and that the accounts do not require an audit in accordance with Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and that no member or members have requested an audit pursuant to Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
As the Charity’s annual income was over £25,000, the Trustees must also arrange for an independent person to carry out either an audit or an independent examination of the accounts. The Trustees elected to have an independent examination instead of an audit.
Our responsibility is to prepare accounts upon the basis of the information supplied to us, without conducting any formal scrutiny.
Dorota Haden of Haden Chartered Accountants has been appointed by the Trustees to carry out an Independent Examination in accordance with Charity Commission's Directions and Guidance. Independent Examination is subject to a separate report by the Examiner.
Haden Chartered Accountants
Rookery Nook Chapel Lane Osmington Dorset DT3 6ET
This report was signed on
30 July 2024
9
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
Statement of Financial Activities (including the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 December 2023, as required by the Companies Act 2006)
| Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ Income & Endowments from: Donations & Legacies A1 10,817 Charitable activities A2 22,796 Investments A4 384 Total income A 33,997 Expenditure on: Charitable activities B2 28,928 Total expenditure B 29,178 Net income/(expenditure) for the year 4,819 Net income after transfers A-B-C 4,819 4,819 Reconciliation of funds:- E Total funds brought forward 31,942 Total funds carried forward 36,761 Net movement in funds SORP Ref |
Current year Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - - - - - - - - - - |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 10,817 22,796 384 33,997 28,928 29,178 4,819 4,819 4,819 31,942 36,761 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 10,514 7,000 86 17,600 18,904 18,904 (1,304) (1,304) (1,304) 33,246 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|
The 'SORP Ref' indicated above is the classification of income set out in the formal SORP documents. As required by paragraph 4.60 of the SORP, the brought forward and carried forward funds above have been agreed to the Balance Sheet.
A separate Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses is not required as this statement includes all recognised gains and losses.
All the prior year transactions were unrestricted items, and no further analysis is required
All activities derive from continuing operations
10
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
| Income & Endowments from: Donations & Legacies A1 Charitable activities A2 Other trading activities A3 Investments A4 Other A5 Total income A Expenditure on: Raising funds B1 Charitable activities B2 Other B3 Tax on surplus on ordinary activit B3 Total expenditure B B4 Net expenditure for the year Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward Net gains on investments SORP Ref |
Prior Year Unrestricted Funds 2022 £ 10,514 7,000 - 86 - 17,600 - 18,904 - - 18,904 - (1,304) 33,246 31,942 |
Prior Year Restricted Funds 2022 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 10,514 7,000 - 86 - 17,600 - 18,904 - - 18,904 - (1,304) 33,246 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|
All activities derive from continuing operations
11
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Resources applied in the year ended 31 December 2023 towards fixed assets for Charity use:-
| Funds generated in the year as detailed in the SOFA Resources applied on Heritage assets Net resources available to fund charitable activities |
2023 £ 4,819 - 4,819 |
2022 £ (1,304) (2,491) (3,795) |
|---|---|---|
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
Movements in revenue and capital funds for the year ended 31 December 2023
Revenue accumulated funds
| Accumulated funds brought forward Closing revenue funds Summary of funds Revenue accumulated funds Recognised gains and losses before transfers |
Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ 31,942 4,819 36,761 36,761 Unrestricted and Designated funds 2023 £ 36,761 |
Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - - - Restricted Funds 2023 £ - |
Total Funds 2023 £ 31,942 4,819 36,761 36,761 Total Funds 2023 £ 36,761 |
Last year Total Funds 2022 £ 33,246 (1,304) 31,942 31,942 Last Year Total Funds 2022 £ 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
12
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the Companies Act 2006
| Income Income from operations Interest receivable Gross income in the year before exceptional items Gross income in the year Expenditure Charitable expenditure, excluding depreciation and amortisation Governance costs Realised losses on disposals of social investments which are programme related Total expenditure in the year Tax on surplus on ordinary activities Retained surplus for the financial year Investment income Net income after tax in the financial year Net income before tax in the financial year |
2023 £ 33,613 384 33,997 33,997 28,072 856 - 29,178 4,819 - 4,819 4,819 |
2022 £ 17,514 86 17,600 17,600 18,246 658 - 18,904 (1,304) - (1,304) (1,304) |
|---|---|---|
All activities derive from continuing operations
In accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006, the headings and subheadings used in the Income and Expenditure account have been adapted to reflect the special nature of the charity's activities.
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
13
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2023
| SORP | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | Ref | 2023 | 2022 | |||
| £ | £ | |||||
| Fixed assets | A | |||||
| Heritage assets | 7 | A3 | 5,233 | 5,233 | ||
| Current assets | B | |||||
| Debtors | 8 | B2 | - | 46 | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | B4 | 32,259 | 24,656 | |||
| Total current assets | 34,338 | 27,634 | ||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due within | ||||||
| one year | 9 | C1 | (2,810) | (925) | ||
| Net current assets | 31,528 | 26,709 | ||||
| The total net assets of the charity | 36,761 | 31,942 | ||||
| The total net assets of the charity are | funded | by the | funds of the charity, as follows:- |
| Restricted funds Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Revenue Funds 14 D3 Designated Funds Total charity funds |
36,761 36,761 |
31,942 31,942 |
|---|---|---|
The 'SORP Ref' indicated above is the classification of Balance Sheet items as set out in the formal SORP documents. As required by paragraph 4.60 of the SORP, the brought forward and carried forward funds above have been agreed to the SOFA.
The directors are satisfied that the company is entitled to exemption from the requirement to obtain an audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Act.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006. applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
paul francis
30 Jul 2024
Paul Francis
Trustee Approved by the board of trustees on 29 July 2024 Approved by the board of trustees on 29 July 2024
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
14
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
1 Accounting policies
Policies relating to the production of the accounts.
Basis of preparation and accounting convention
The accounts have been prepared on the accruals basis, under the historical cost convention, and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 and FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) published by the Charity Commission in England & Wales (CCEW), effective January 2019, (The SORP), and in accordance with all applicable law in the charity's jurisdiction of registration.
Risks and future assumptions
Given the charity's small size, it does not have a formal risk policy, though the Trustees are mindful of the strategic business and operational risks to which the charity might be exposed. The charity is a public benefit entity.
Policies relating to categories of income and income recognition.
Nature of income
Gross income represents the value, net of value added tax and discounts, of goods provided to customers and work carried out in respect of services provided to customers.
Categories of Income
Income is categorised as income from exchange transactions (contract income) and income from non-exchange transactions (gifts), investment income and other income.
Income from exchange transactions is received by the charity for goods or services supplied under contract or where entitlement is subject to fulfilling performance related conditions. The income the charity receives is approximately equal in value to the goods or services supplied by the charity to the purchaser.
Income from a non-exchange transaction is where the charity receives value from the donor without providing equal value in exchange, and includes donations of money, goods and services freely given without giving equal value in exchange.
Income recognition
Income, whether from exchange or non exchange transactions, is recognised in the statement of financial activities (SOFA) on a receivable basis, when a transaction or other event results in an increase in the charity’s assets or a reduction in its liabilities and only when the charity has legal entitlement, the income is probable and can be measured reliably.
Income subject to terms and conditions which must be met before the charity is entitled to the resources is not recognised until the conditions have been met.
All income is accounted for gross, before deducting any related fees or costs.
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Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
Accounting for deferred income and income received in advance
Where terms and conditions relating to income have not been met or uncertainty exists as to whether the charity can meet any terms or conditions otherwise within its control, income is not recognised but is deferred as a liability until it is probable that the terms or conditions imposed can be met.
Any grant that is subject to performance-related conditions received in advance of delivering the goods and services required by that condition, or is subject to unmet conditions wholly outside the control of the recipient charity, is accounted for as a liability and shown on the balance sheet as deferred income. Deferred income is released to income in the reporting period in which the performance-related or other conditions that limit recognition are met.
When income from a grant or donation has not been recognised due to the conditions applying to the gift not being wholly within the control of the recipient charity, it is disclosed as a contingent asset if receipt of the grant or donation is probable once those conditions are met.
Where time related conditions are imposed or implied by a funder, then the income is apportioned to the time periods concerned, and, where applicable, is accounted for as a liability and shown on the balance sheet as deferred income. When grants are received in advance of the expenditure on the activity funded by them, but there are no specific time related conditions, then the income is not deferred.
Any condition that allows for the recovery by the donor of any unexpended part of a grant does not prevent recognition of the income concerned, but a liability to any repayment is recognised when repayment becomes probable.
Income from legacies
Income from legacies is recognised when the charity has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them, that where required, probate has been granted, the executor is satisfied that the property in question will not be required to satisfy claims in the estate, that it is probable that the amount will be received by the charity, and the amount to be received can be estimated with sufficient accuracy, and that any conditions attached to the legacy are either within the control of the charity or have been met.
Where a payment is received from an estate or is notified as receivable by the executors after the reporting date and before the accounts are authorised for issue but it is clear that the payment had been agreed by the executors prior to the end of the reporting period, then the amount concerned is treated as an adjusting event and accrued as income in the accounting period if receipt is probable.
Where the charity has established entitlement to a legacy but there is uncertainty as to the amount of the payment, details of the legacy are disclosed as a contingent asset until the criteria for income recognition are met. Where a legacy is subject to the interest of a life tenant, the legacy is not recognised as income until the death of the life tenant.
If it is doubtful that full settlement of a legacy debtor will be received, then an adjustment is made to reduce the amount of the legacy debtor and legacy income rather than charging the adjustment as expenditure in the Statement of Financial Activities
Donated goods, facilities and services
Donated fixed assets are recognised at the current fair value. All such donations are recognised as donation income, and debited to fixed assets. However, see exception discussed under heading "Heritage Assets" below.
Donated goods that are not fixed assets are accounted for at a fair value, unless it is impractical to reliably measure the value of the donated items.
In the absence of any direct evidence of fair value of donated goods, then a value is derived from the cost of the item to the donor or, in the case of goods that are expected to be sold, the estimated resale value after deducting any anticipated costs of sales.
If it is impracticable to measure the fair value of goods donated for resale, or the costs of valuation outweigh the benefits, the donated goods are recognised as income when sold, with an equivalent amount being recognised as an expense.
The costs of goods donated for distribution to beneficiaries is deemed to be the fair value of those goods upon receipt. When the goods are distributed freely or for a nominal consideration, then the carrying amount is adjusted at the time of sale, to the value at the point of distribution and the adjustment is shown as a cost of donations made.
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Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
The carrying amount of any stock held for distribution is assessed for impairment at the reporting date. All donated goods are recognised as donation income, and debited to trading stock. When trading stock is subsequently sold, or appropriated to meet an expense, then the carrying value of the stock is recognised as an expense. In accordance with the SORP, goods donated for distribution to beneficiaries, or for consumption by the charity are included in 'legacies and donations '. Goods donated for resale are included in 'Income from other trading activities'
The cost of any stock of goods donated for distribution to beneficiaries is deemed to be the fair value of those gifts at the time of their receipt. If the goods held are to be distributed freely or for a nominal consideration, then the carrying amount is subsequently adjusted to reflect the lower of deemed cost adjusted for any loss of service potential and replacement cost. Replacement cost is the economic cost incurred if the charity was to replace the service potential of the donated goods at its own expense in the most economic manner.
Donated services and facilities (including seconded staff and use of property) are included in the accounts on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity.
All donated services and facilities are recognised as donation income when received,(provided the value of the gift can be measured reliably) and recognised as an expense with an equivalent value.
Membership subscriptions
The income and any associated Gift Aid or other tax refund from a membership subscription received by the charity in the nature of a gift, is accounted for on the same basis as a donation.
The income from a membership subscription received by the charity where the subscription purchases the right to services or benefits is recognised as income from charitable activities.
Policies relating to expenditure on goods and services provided to the charity.
Recognition of liabilities and expenditure
A liability, and the related expenditure, is recognised when a legal or constructive obligation exists as a result of a past event, and when it is more likely than not that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and when the amount of the obligation can be measured or reliably estimated..
Liabilities arising from future funding commitments and constructive obligations, including performance related grants, where the timing or the amount of the future expenditure required to settle the obligation are uncertain, give rise to a provision in the accounts, which is reviewed at the accounting year end. The provision is increased to reflect any increases in liabilities, and is decreased by the utilisation of any provision within the period, and reversed if any provision is no longer required. These movements are charged or credited to the respective funds and activities to which the provision relates.
17
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
Allocating costs to activities
Direct costs that are specifically related to an activity are allocated to that activity. Shared direct costs and support costs are apportioned between activities only if material. General administration expenses are not apportioned to activities.
Policies relating to assets, liabilities and provisions and other matters.
Heritage assets
Since its recognition as a charitable company, the charity has held an archive of books and other research material. The vast majority of items in the archive were donated to the predecessor organisations over many years. The collection in existence at the date of its transfer to the charity is not recognised in the Balance Sheet as cost information is not readily available, but the Trustees intend to obtain valuations for these items once they have been catalogued. The Charity's management policy in this respect is summarised in note 9. Individual heritage assets acquired post 21 July 2014 costing £50 or greater will be capitalised but not depreciated in view of the nature of the archive.
The two predecessor bodies transferred the archive materials referred to in the Trustees' Report to Airfield Research Group Limited at the point it was registered as a charity. No value is however recognised in respect of the collection in existence at the date of transfer to the charity, as explained above. This collection is administered by the Trustees and is kept at Alconbury Weald, located on part of the former RAF Alconbury.
It is the Trustees' expectation that funding for further acquisitions will come principally from membership subscriptions and donations. The charity will continue to dispose of donated goods (principally surplus books) to help fund its operations.
Debtors
Debtors are measured at their recoverable amounts at the balance sheet date.
Creditors and provisions
Liabilities are recognised on the accruals basis in accordance with normal accounting policies, modified where necessary in accordance with the guidance given in the SORP.
2 Liability to taxation
The Trustees consider that the charity satisfies the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the Charity is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by chapter 3 part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively on the specific charitable objects of the charity and for no other purpose. Value Added Tax is not recoverable by the charity, and is therefore included in the relevant costs in the Statement of Financial Activities.
3 Winding up or dissolution of the charity
If upon winding up or dissolution of the charity there remain any assets, after the satisfaction of all debts and liabilities, the assets represented by the accumulated fund shall be transferred to some other charitable body or bodies having similar objects to the charity.
18
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
4 The contribution of volunteers
Airfield Research Group Ltd is an exclusively volunteer organisation, with no employed staff. It is therefore crucially dependent upon the dedication, hard work and goodwill of a limited number of volunteers to deliver its objectives and activities. Also, the content of the flagship Airfield Review comes entirely from contributions by volunteer members of the Group. More volunteers would enable ARG to carry out more pro-active presentational work and accelerate cataloguing of the Archive.
No employees received emoluments (excluding pension costs) in excess of £60,000 per annum.
5 Defined contribution pension schemes
The Charity does not operate a pension scheme.
6 Remuneration and payments to Trustees and persons connected with them
| 2023 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Paul Bellamy - reimbursement of expenses | 298 | |
| Paul Francis - consultancy fee incurred directly in support of generation of consultancy | ||
| income by the Charity | 11658 | |
| Paul Francis - Commissions paid from sales of "Works & Bricks" - cost incurred directly in | ||
| generation of sale of goods in accordance with the charity's objects | 1061 | 2366 |
| Jeffrey Hawley - consultancy fee incurred directly in support of generation of consultancy | ||
| income by the Charity | 3886 | |
| Jeffrey Hawley - reimbursed expenses | 232 | |
| John Gilby - reimbursed expenses | 713 | 603 |
| Peter Howarth- reimbursed expenses | 53 | 53 |
| Jayne Wrights - reimbursed expenses | 65 | 24 |
7 Heritage assets included in the accounts
| Cost At 1 January 2023 Additions Disposals At 31 December 2023 Depreciation At 31 December 2023 Net book value |
At cost 2023 5,233 - - 5,233 - 5,233 |
At valuation 2023 - - - - - - |
Total of valuation and cost 2023 5,233 - - 5,233 - 5,233 |
Total of valuation and cost 2022 2,742 2,491 - 5,233 - 5,233 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The value represents historical host of heritage assets acquired post 21 July 2014 costing at least £50. Heritage assets are not depreciated in view of the nature of the archive.
19
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
The two predecessor bodies transferred the archive materials referred to in the Trustees' Report to Airfield Research Group Limited at the point it was registered as a charity. No value is however recognised in respect of the collection in existence at the date of transfer to the charity, as explained above. This collection is administered by the Trustees and is kept at Alconbury Weald, located on part of the former RAF Alconbury.
It is the Trustees' expectation that funding for further acquisitions will come principally from
membership subscriptions and donations. The charity will continue to dispose of donated goods (principally surplus books) to help fund its operations.
8 Debtors
| Other debtors 9 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Accruals |
2023 £ - 2023 £ 2,810 |
2022 £ 46 2022 £ 892 |
|---|---|---|
10 Loans to trustees included in debtors
None
11 Guarantees made by the charity on behalf of trustees
None
| 12 Income and Expenditure account summary At 1 January 2023 Surplus/(loss) after tax for the year At 31 December 2023 |
2023 £ 31,942 4,819 36,761 |
2022 £ 33,246 (1,304) 31,942 |
|---|---|---|
13 Particulars of how particular funds are represented by assets and liabilities
| At 31 December 2023 Heritage Assets Investments at valuation:- Current Assets Current Liabilities At 1 January 2023 Heritage Assets Investments at valuation:- Current Assets Current Liabilities |
Unrestricted funds £ 5,233 34,338 (2,810) 36,761 Unrestricted funds £ 5,233 27,634 (925) 31,942 |
Designated funds £ - - - - Designated funds £ - - - - |
Restricted funds £ - - - - Restricted funds £ - - - - |
Total Funds £ 5,233 34,338 (2,810) 36,761 Total Funds £ 5,233 27,634 (925) 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
20
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
14 Change in total funds over the year as shown in Note 13 , analysed by individual funds
| Unrestricted and designated funds:- Unrestricted Revenue Funds Total unrestricted and designated funds Total charity funds |
£ 31,942 31,942 31,942 Funds brought forward from 2022 |
See Note 15 £ 4,819 4,819 4,819 Movement in funds in 2023 |
See Note 0 £ - - - Transfers between funds in 2023 |
£ 36,761 36,761 36,761 Funds carried forward to 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
15 Analysis of movements in funds over the year as shown in Note 14
| Unrestricted and designated funds:- Unrestricted Revenue Funds |
Income 2023 £ 33,997 33,997 |
Expenditure 2023 £ (29,178) (29,178) |
Other Gains & Losses 2023 £ - - |
Movement in funds 2023 £ 4,819 4,819 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
16 The purposes for which the funds as detailed in note 14 are held by the charity are:-
Unrestricted and designated funds:-
Unrestricted Revenue Funds
Unrestricted Revaluation Reserve
These funds are held for the meeting the objectives of the charity, and to provide reserves for future activities, and , subject to charity legislation, are free from all restrictions on their use.
This fund represents the unrestricted surplus arising on the revaluation of the charity's assets.
N/A
Designated Revenue Funds
Designated Fixed Asset Funds
N/A
Restricted funds:-
Restricted Fixed Asset Funds Restricted Revaluation Reserve
The purpose of these funds is described under the accounting policy 'Accounting for capital grants and fixed asset funds'. This fund represents the restricted surplus arising on the revaluation of the charity's assets.
17 Ultimate controlling party
The charity is under the control of its legal members.
Every member of the charity is obliged to contribute such amount as may be required not exceeding £10 to the assets of the company in the event of its being wound up while he or she is a member, or within one year after he or she ceases to be a member.
21
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
This analysis is classsified by conventional nominal descriptions and not by activity.
18 Donations and Legacies
| Current year Current year Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2023 2023 £ £ Donations and gifts from individuals 1,272 - - - 1,272 - 9,545 - Total Donations and Legacies A1 10,817 - Income from charitable activities - Trading Activities Current year Current year Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2023 2023 £ £ Primary purpose and ancillary trading 2,725 - 19,430 - 641 - - - 22,796 - Members visits Total Primary purpose and ancillary trading Ancillary trading in support of charitable objects Sale of goods and services in accordance with the charity's objects Small donations individually less than £1000 Total donations and gifts from individuals Donation Membership subscriptions as donations Website advertising income |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 1,272 - 1,272 9,545 10,817 Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 2,725 19,430 641 - 22,796 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 1,305 - 1,305 9,209 10,514 Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 5,534 80 1,386 - 7,000 |
|---|---|---|
19 Income from charitable activities - Trading Activities
20 Total Income from charitable activities
| Total income from charitable trading Total from charitable activities A2 |
Current year Unrestricted Funds £ 2023 22,796 22,796 |
Current year Restricted Funds £ 2023 - - |
Current year Total Funds £ 2023 22,796 22,796 |
Prior Year Total Funds £ 2022 7,000 7,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
22
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
21 Investment income
| Bank Interest Receivable Total investment income A4 |
Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ 384 384 |
Current year Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 384 384 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 86 86 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
22 Expenditure on charitable activities - Direct spending
| Total direct spending B2a Consultancy fees Members visits Members' costs |
Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ 130 15,620 - 16,811 |
Current year Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - - - |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 130 15,620 - 16,811 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 895 - 1,095 4,356 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
23 Expenditure on charitable activities - Charitable trading
| Reallocated from support costs Total charitable trading costs B2b Books for web sales Cost of goods for primary purpose trading Publishing costs - books Website costs Archive costs Publishing costs - Airfield review |
Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ - - 6,281 - 781 885 - 8,800 |
Current year Current year Prior Year Restricted Funds Total Funds Total Funds 2023 2023 2022 £ £ £ - - - - - - - 6,281 5,467 - - 4,142 - 781 647 - 885 992 - - - - 8,800 8,508 |
|---|---|---|
23
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
24 Support costs for charitable activities
| 24 Support costs for charitable activiti |
es | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current year | Current year | Current year | Prior Year | |
| Unrestricted | Restricted Funds | Total Funds | Total Funds | |
| Funds | ||||
| 2023 | 2023 | 2023 | 2022 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Premises Expenses | ||||
| Rates and water charges | 1,560 | - | 1,560 | 1,485 |
| Administrative overheads | ||||
| Postage | 276 | - | 276 | 488 |
| Membership subscriptions | 121 | - | 121 | 218 |
| Software licences and expenses | - | - | - | - |
| Liabilty and contents insurance | (318) | - | (318) | 2,252 |
| Professional fees paid to the Auditor or Independent Examiner in addition to audit | and | |||
| examination fees | ||||
| As detailed in Note 25 | - | - | - | - |
| Accountancy fees other than examination or audit fees |
450 | - | 450 | 524 |
| Tax advice | - | - | - | - |
| Legal fees | - | - | - | - |
| Financial costs | ||||
| Bank charges | 61 | - | 61 | 96 |
| PayPal charges | 171 | - | 171 | 249 |
| Support costs before reallocation | 2,461 | - | 2,461 | 5,382 |
| Less support costs reallocated to specific activities | ||||
| To charitable trading costs | - | - | - | - |
| Total support costs | 2,461 | - | 2,461 | 5,382 |
| The basis of allocation of costs between activities is described | under accounting | policies |
24
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
25 Other Expenditure - Governance costs
| Current year Current year |
Current year Prior Year |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted Restricted Funds |
Total Funds Total Funds |
|||
| Funds | ||||
| 2023 2023 |
2023 2022 |
|||
| £ £ |
£ £ |
|||
| AGM costs | 436 - |
436 658 |
||
| Total Governance costs | 856 - |
856 658 |
||
| Professional fees paid to the Auditor | or Independent Examiner in addition to audit and | |||
| examination fees | ||||
| Assurance -Non audit or examination | - - |
2023 2022 £ £ - - |
||
| Total additional fees included in | ||||
| support costs at Note 24 | - - |
- - |
||
| **26 ** | Total Charitable expenditure | |||
| Total direct spending | B2a | Current year Current year Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2023 2023 £ £ 16,811 - |
Current year Prior Year Total Funds Total Funds 2023 2022 £ £ 16,811 4,356 |
|
| Total charitable trading costs | B2b | 8,800 - |
8,800 8,508 |
|
| Total support costs | B2d | 2,461 - |
2,461 5,382 |
|
| Total Governance costs | B2e | 856 - |
856 658 |
|
| Total charitable expenditure | B2 | 28,928 - |
28,928 18,904 |
25
Issuer
Issuer Haden Chartered Accountants Document generated Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:37 BST Document fingerprint 4a3d089dfd6c73053752c706430229ef
Parties involved with this document
Document processed Party + Fingerprint Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Mr Paul Francis - Signer (bd94ce62b06fec6a732be27712c8016e) Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Mr Peter James Howarth - Copied In (adef7bf1f6a4e154fd9a55963373c7d4) Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST Mr Norman Richard Brice - Copied In (cf910d8e094964070c384343f45ee9d1)
Audit history log
Date Action Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:37 BST Envelope generated with fingerprint 4508daa72ea7b7b0cafe5da0d86f041618.133.63.166 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Document generated with fingerprint 4a3d089dfd6c73053752c706430229ef.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Document generated with fingerprint c9c28d0feaca5f147955b3784fc52c2a.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Envelope generated.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Mr Paul Francis has been assigned to this envelope.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Mr Peter James Howarth has been assigned to this envelope.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Mr Norman Richard Brice has been assigned to this envelope.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Envelope has been set to automatically remind the active signer every 7 day(s).3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Envelope has been set to automatically expire after 182 day(s).3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Sent the envelope to Mr Paul Francis for signing.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:49 BST Document emailed to party email13.41.194.27 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:27:25 BST Mr Paul Francis viewed the envelope82.6.73.101 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Mr Paul Francis signed the envelope82.6.73.101
Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:49 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:27:25 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST
Sent the envelope to Mr Peter James Howarth for signing82.6.73.101 Sent the envelope to Mr Norman Richard Brice for signing82.6.73.101
Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST
This envelope has been signed by all parties82.6.73.101 Mr Paul Francis viewed the envelope82.6.73.101 Document emailed to party email18.133.28.202 Document emailed to party email13.41.157.131
Company Registration Number - 08931493
The Charity Registration Number is :- 1157924
Airfield Research Group Ltd Report and Accounts 31 December 2023
Haden Chartered Accountants Rookery Nook Chapel Lane Osmington Dorset DT3 6ET
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Report and accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
Contents
| Page | ||
|---|---|---|
| from | To | |
| Trustees' Annual Report | 1 - | 8 |
| Accountants' report | 9 - | 9 |
| Funds Statements:- | ||
| Statement of Financial Activities(SOFA) | 10 - | 10 |
| Statement of Financial Activities - Prior Year statement | 11 - | 11 |
| Movements in funds | 12 - | 12 |
| Summary of funds | 12 - | 12 |
| Income and Expenditure account | 13 - | 13 |
| Balance sheet | 14 - | 14 |
| Notes to the accounts | 15 - | 25 |
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Company Registration Number - 08931493
Trustees' Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023
The Trustees present their Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023, which also comprises the Directors' Report required by the the Companies Act 2006.
Reference and administrative details
The charity name.
The legal name of the charity is:- Airfield Research Group Ltd
The charity is also known by its operating name, N/A
The charity's areas operation and UK charitable registration.
The charity is registered in England & Wales with the Charity Commission in England & Wales (CCEW) with charity number 1157924
Legal structure of the charity
The governing document of the charity is the Memorandum and Articles of Association establishing the company under company legislation.
By operation of law, all trustees are directors under the Companies Act 2006 and all directors are trustees under Charities legislation and have responsibilities, as such, under both company and charity legislation.
The principal operating address, email and web addresses of the charity are:-
Building 1008 Alconbury Weald Alconbury, Huntingdon PE28 4WX
Email Address corporate@airfieldresearchgroup.org.uk Web address www.airfieldresearchgroup.org.uk
The registered office of the charity for Companies Act purposes is the same as the operating address shown above
The Trustees in office on the date the report was approved were:-
Paul Francis (Chairman) Norman R Brice (Finance Director) Peter J Howarth (Company Secretary) Jeffrey A Hawley (Vice Chairman) Sarah J Botfield Jayne Wright John C Gilby
1
The following persons served as Trustees during the year ended 31 December 2023 :-
The trustees who served as a trustee in the reporting period, and, if applicable, their dates of appointment or resignation during the year were:-.
Name Appointed Resigned/Retired Paul Francis Norman R Brice Peter J Howarth Paul G Bellamy 15/01/24 Jeffrey A Hawley Sarah J Botfield Jayne Wright John C Gilby
Name
At the Annual General Meeting Sarah Jayne Botfield, Paul Francis and Peter Howarth retire as Trustees in rotation. All three, being eligible, offer themselves for election.
All the trustees are also directors and members of the charity.
Objects and activities of the charity
The purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document.
The objects of the charity are to advance the education of the general public by carrying out research into, and maintaining records of, military and civilian airfields and related infrastructure, both current and historic, anywhere in the world.
The Trustees consider that the charity's objectives are for the public benefit and its activities, achievements and performance are consistent with its objectives having had regard to Charity Commission guidance.
In furtherance of the charity's objectives, the Trustees may:
-
acquire and display exhibits and artefacts, and make the same available for research to interested parties;
-
carry out research in relation to such airfields and related infrastructure for the purpose of education of the public by dissemination of the useful results of the research;
-
provide educational facilities and assistance to young people by establishing contacts with educational institutions, youth clubs, societies etc.; and
-
cause to be written and printed or otherwise reproduce and circulate, gratuitously or otherwise, such papers, periodicals, pamphlets or other documents or films or recorded tapes (whether audio or visual or both) and to store and make available such materials to the public.
The main activities undertaken in relation to those purposes during the year.
The charity has a number of broad categories of activity: pure research; applied research; education/outreach; and promoting the charity. It achieves these by the quarterly publication of the magazine Airfield Review; maintenance and expansion of the Archive; maintenance of the internet web site; visits to airfield-related locations; stands at major aviation-related venues; and public displays and talks. The website sets out the full range of our activities and dispalys examples of the research documents available.
2
The main activities undertaken during the year to further the charity's purpose for the public benefit.
The Trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in managing the activities of the charity.
The main achievements and performance of the charity during the year.
Airfield Research Group have completed two commissioned detailed reports on the area forming the north side of the runway at Alconbury Weald. We have also provided two further reports in connection with the former flight-line buildings of RAF Alconbury. One containing advice on two Grade 2 listed aircraft hangars and two unlisted hangars for the developer Urban & Civic plc, the other report is a comprehensive list of heritage assets (fixtures and fittings) that were recommended to be recovered prior to the demolition phase of the redevelopment project.
Modest progress has been made on the physical archive, At the end of the financial year the main catalogue had 8,000 entries. The county series maps archive has catalogued 2,400 maps (less than half of the collection).
We continue to support other heritage organisations with free research and advice in connection with buildings, planning and recording.
Similar to previous years, ARG ran a programme of member visits throughout the year to locations of interest, including active and disused airfields (RAF Cranwell, Barton Aerodrome, Hooton Park, RAF Raydon) and other related sites such as military hospitals and underground aircraft factories (Shorts’ Tunnels, Nocton Hall Hospital). All visits were generally well attended and a benefit to ARG membership. Visits also provide the opportunity for members from all over the UK to meet up and socialise whilst viewing locations of common interest.
ARG held its third Annual Members Day on 24 September 2023 at the extensive Bentwaters Cold War Museum in Suffolk. This day is offered free of charge to full ARG members and forms one of many member benefits. Twenty five members and quests attended the day which consisted of two informative presentations, the company AGM, refreshments, then an extended minibus tour around the former Cold War airfield to view many of the extant buildings, including the museum’s hangar of restored aircraft.
In October, ARG supported the second Cold War Network (CWN) Meeting at Alconbury Weald, sharing our experiences of developing the ARG and exploring ways to support the Network. ARG are are now founding members of the CWN Steering Group, which is chaired by Dr Peter Robinson from Leeds Beckett University. Peter is also our ARG Education and Outreach officer. This has provided opportunity for the charity to develop mutually beneficial outcomes for CWN and ARG around education and to share our work with the wider network.
The difference the charity's performance during the year has made to the beneficiaries of the charity.
Airfield Research Group does not specify classes of people to qualify as “beneficiaries”. We are open to provide information to anybody who asks and a description of our benefit to wider society (which is the same as “beneficiaries”) follows below.
3
The degree to which the achievements and performance during the year have benefited wider society.
ARG integrates closely into both the local community and like-minded charities and similar bodies.
ARG is a founding member of the Alconbury Weald Heritage Committee based at Alconbury Weald, which is in partnership with Cambridge County Council, Huntingdon District Council and developer Urban & Civic plc. to advise on the 20th century military architecture and history of the former airbase and to assist with decisions for the future use of the property, which will enhance the knowledge of both residents of the new development and the surrounding community. Also an active member of the Alconbury Weald Business Group.
ARG is a member of Aviation Heritage UK, Association of Independent Museums and East Anglian Aviation Heritage Network.
ARG has given advice on buildings to bodies ranging from major national organisations to Parish Councils and private individuals
The Group continues to receive enquiries from the internet or previous contacts, each of which is answered by a volunteer. The range of enquirers and subjects remains extremely broad, including: museums and special interest groups, mainly in the UK but also including in the USA, given RAF Alconbury's long association with the United States Air Force; planning authorities and applicants; also, increasingly, members of the public researching their relatives' military service. The Group offers to give presentations and displays to schools and local societies. Answers are drawn from documents, photographs, plans etc. in the Archive and from the extensive knowledge of volunteers. The website forum generates significant levels of traffic and is a source of new material and knowledge.
ARG Trustees and members give tours and presentations, including to schools and youth groups, on aviation heritage.
Three Road Shows were presented to broaden public awareness of ARG, recruit new members and raise funds through the sale of donated books.
4
Structure, governance and management of the charity
The methods used to recruit and appoint new charity trustees.
The appointment of Trustees is as set out in the Articles of Association. At the first Annual General Meeting, all the Trustees retired from office and were re-elected. At each subsequent annual general meeting one-third of the Trustees (or the nearest number thereto) must retire from office. A retiring Trustee is eligible for re-election by the members.
The policies and procedures for the induction and training of trustees.
New Trustees are briefed informally on their legal obligations under charity and company law, the content of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, decision making processes, and recent financial performance of the charity.
The charity's organisational structure.
Airfield Research Group Ltd is a company limited by guarantee governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. It is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission. Anyone can become a member of the company. At the end of 2023 there were 266 members who each undertake to contribute an amount not exceeding £10 in the event of a winding up or a dissolution of the charity. A Board of Trustees of not fewer than 3 administers the charity, supported by Officers who undertake specific roles, such as Archive, Road Shows, Membership and Editor of Airfield Review.
Your Trustees continue to be concerned at the falling membership and paucity of volunteers to assist in the management and running of the charity, a problem common to many volunteer groups. As older members leave, either through natural causes or economic hardship, they are not being replaced by younger generations. There seems nowadays to be an excessive dependence upon the internet and an expectation that these have no costs.
Accountants
Haden Chartered Accountants, Rookery Nook, Chapel Lane, Osmington, Dorset DT3 6ET
5
Financial review
The charity's financial position at the end of the year ended 31 December 2023
The financial position of the charity at 31 December 2023 and comparatives for the prior period, as more fully detailed in the accounts, can be summarised as follows:-
| Total Funds Unrestricted Revenue Funds available for the general purposes of the charity Net income/(expenditure) |
2023 £ 4,819 36,761 36,761 |
2022 £ (1,304) 31,942 31,942 |
|---|---|---|
Financial review of the position at the reporting date, 31 December 2023 .
The income and expenditure account shows a surplus of £4,819. Cash balances increased by £7,603 to £32,259. Stock of books went down from 354 at the end of 2022 to 251 valued at cost at £2,079. Balance Sheet also includes accrued costs relating to 2023 but paid for in 2024 of £2,810.
Total funds at year end were £36,761 (prior year £31,942).
Overall, the Trustees consider the financial performance by the charity during the year to have been adequate. However, for as long as the charity is overwhelmingly dependent for income upon membership subscriptions, the outcome of surplus/loss will remain finely balanced.
For 2024, your Trustees are anticipating a balance on day-to-day running costs. Additionally we aim to spend some of the donations received in this and previous years on charitable activities, which will naturally deplete reserves.
With the additional costs incurred in maintaining Building 1008, the Trustees recognise that this is a precarious existence which is not sustainable in the longer-term. Accordingly, the Board is actively seeking to increase membership and is seeking additional sources of income, not excluding grants, as well as remunerated consultancy work for commercial organisations, drawing upon extensive knowledge held by Trustees personally and the vast archives of often unique archival material.
Recent events
Development work by our landlords across the whole airfield site has resulted in the temporary disconnection of essential utilities to building 1008, requiring ARG to close it to the public. However, members are able to continue vital work in cataloguing archival material.
Policies on reserves.
The Trustees have reviewed the reserves of the charity. The review considered the nature of the charity's anticipated income and expenditure streams and the need to match variable income with any fixed commitments.
The unrestricted reserves of the Charity at the 31st of December 2023 amounted to £36,761 and are considered sufficient to meet the charity's ongoing unrestricted charitable expenditure as well as the longer term financing needs of the charity.
6
Availability and adequacy of assets of each of the funds
The Board of Trustees is satisfied that the charity's assets are available and adequate to fulfil its obligations.
Statement of the Directors Trustees's Responsibilities
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the terms of the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Notwithstanding the explicit requirement in the extant statutory regulations,the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the SORP 2005, in view of the fact that the SORP 2005 has been withdrawn, the Trustees determined to interpret this responsibility as requiring them to follow current best practice and prepare the accounts according to the FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) 2015 (as amended by the Bulletin issued in February 2016) .
In particular, the Companies Act 2006 and charity law require the Board of Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity as at the end of the financial year and of the surplus or deficit of the charity. In preparing those financial statements the Board is required to :-
-
to prepare the accounts in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law).
-
select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
-
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business;
-
state whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
The law requires that the trustees must not approve the accounts unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the surplus or deficit of the charity for the year.
The Trustees are also responsible for maintaining adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and which are sufficient to show and explain the charity's transactions and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006 and comply with regulations made under the Charities Act. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The Trustees are also responsible for the contents of the Trustees' report, and the statutory responsibility of the Reporting Accountant in relation to the Trustees' report is limited to examining the report and ensuring that , on the face of the report, there are no material inconsistencies with the figures disclosed in the financial statements.
7
Method of preparation of accounts - Small company provisions
The financial statements are set out on pages 10 to 25. The financial statements have been prepared implementing the FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) 2015 (as amended by the Bulletin issued in October 2019) and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102, (effective 1st January 2019)
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006. applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on
29 July 2024
paul francis
30 Jul 2024
Paul Francis Director and Trustee
8
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Report of the Independent Accountant to the Trustees of the charitable company on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
We report on the financial statements of Airfield Research Group Ltd for the year ended 31 December 2023, as set out on pages 11 to 26, which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Income and Expenditure Account, the Balance Sheet and the related notes. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and the Financial Reporting Standard 102, and the accounts have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) published by the Charity Commission in England & Wales (CCEW) , effective January 2019, (The SORP), under the historical cost convention, and in accordance with the accounting policies set out on page 16, which framework constitutes the applicable United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and the accountant
As described on page 7, the charitable company's Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts.
The Trustees consider that the audit requirement of Section 144(1) of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act) does not apply, and that there is no requirement in the memorandum and articles of the charity for the conducting of an audit, and that the accounts do not require an audit in accordance with Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and that no member or members have requested an audit pursuant to Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
As the Charity’s annual income was over £25,000, the Trustees must also arrange for an independent person to carry out either an audit or an independent examination of the accounts. The Trustees elected to have an independent examination instead of an audit.
Our responsibility is to prepare accounts upon the basis of the information supplied to us, without conducting any formal scrutiny.
Dorota Haden of Haden Chartered Accountants has been appointed by the Trustees to carry out an Independent Examination in accordance with Charity Commission's Directions and Guidance. Independent Examination is subject to a separate report by the Examiner.
Haden Chartered Accountants
Rookery Nook Chapel Lane Osmington Dorset DT3 6ET
This report was signed on
30 July 2024
9
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
Statement of Financial Activities (including the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 December 2023, as required by the Companies Act 2006)
| Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ Income & Endowments from: Donations & Legacies A1 10,817 Charitable activities A2 22,796 Investments A4 384 Total income A 33,997 Expenditure on: Charitable activities B2 28,928 Total expenditure B 29,178 Net income/(expenditure) for the year 4,819 Net income after transfers A-B-C 4,819 4,819 Reconciliation of funds:- E Total funds brought forward 31,942 Total funds carried forward 36,761 Net movement in funds SORP Ref |
Current year Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - - - - - - - - - - |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 10,817 22,796 384 33,997 28,928 29,178 4,819 4,819 4,819 31,942 36,761 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 10,514 7,000 86 17,600 18,904 18,904 (1,304) (1,304) (1,304) 33,246 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|
The 'SORP Ref' indicated above is the classification of income set out in the formal SORP documents. As required by paragraph 4.60 of the SORP, the brought forward and carried forward funds above have been agreed to the Balance Sheet.
A separate Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses is not required as this statement includes all recognised gains and losses.
All the prior year transactions were unrestricted items, and no further analysis is required
All activities derive from continuing operations
10
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
| Income & Endowments from: Donations & Legacies A1 Charitable activities A2 Other trading activities A3 Investments A4 Other A5 Total income A Expenditure on: Raising funds B1 Charitable activities B2 Other B3 Tax on surplus on ordinary activit B3 Total expenditure B B4 Net expenditure for the year Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward Net gains on investments SORP Ref |
Prior Year Unrestricted Funds 2022 £ 10,514 7,000 - 86 - 17,600 - 18,904 - - 18,904 - (1,304) 33,246 31,942 |
Prior Year Restricted Funds 2022 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 10,514 7,000 - 86 - 17,600 - 18,904 - - 18,904 - (1,304) 33,246 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|
All activities derive from continuing operations
11
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Resources applied in the year ended 31 December 2023 towards fixed assets for Charity use:-
| Funds generated in the year as detailed in the SOFA Resources applied on Heritage assets Net resources available to fund charitable activities |
2023 £ 4,819 - 4,819 |
2022 £ (1,304) (2,491) (3,795) |
|---|---|---|
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
Movements in revenue and capital funds for the year ended 31 December 2023
Revenue accumulated funds
| Accumulated funds brought forward Closing revenue funds Summary of funds Revenue accumulated funds Recognised gains and losses before transfers |
Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ 31,942 4,819 36,761 36,761 Unrestricted and Designated funds 2023 £ 36,761 |
Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - - - Restricted Funds 2023 £ - |
Total Funds 2023 £ 31,942 4,819 36,761 36,761 Total Funds 2023 £ 36,761 |
Last year Total Funds 2022 £ 33,246 (1,304) 31,942 31,942 Last Year Total Funds 2022 £ 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
12
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the Companies Act 2006
| Income Income from operations Interest receivable Gross income in the year before exceptional items Gross income in the year Expenditure Charitable expenditure, excluding depreciation and amortisation Governance costs Realised losses on disposals of social investments which are programme related Total expenditure in the year Tax on surplus on ordinary activities Retained surplus for the financial year Investment income Net income after tax in the financial year Net income before tax in the financial year |
2023 £ 33,613 384 33,997 33,997 28,072 856 - 29,178 4,819 - 4,819 4,819 |
2022 £ 17,514 86 17,600 17,600 18,246 658 - 18,904 (1,304) - (1,304) (1,304) |
|---|---|---|
All activities derive from continuing operations
In accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006, the headings and subheadings used in the Income and Expenditure account have been adapted to reflect the special nature of the charity's activities.
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
13
Airfield Research Group Ltd - Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2023
| SORP | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | Ref | 2023 | 2022 | |||
| £ | £ | |||||
| Fixed assets | A | |||||
| Heritage assets | 7 | A3 | 5,233 | 5,233 | ||
| Current assets | B | |||||
| Debtors | 8 | B2 | - | 46 | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | B4 | 32,259 | 24,656 | |||
| Total current assets | 34,338 | 27,634 | ||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due within | ||||||
| one year | 9 | C1 | (2,810) | (925) | ||
| Net current assets | 31,528 | 26,709 | ||||
| The total net assets of the charity | 36,761 | 31,942 | ||||
| The total net assets of the charity are | funded | by the | funds of the charity, as follows:- |
| Restricted funds Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Revenue Funds 14 D3 Designated Funds Total charity funds |
36,761 36,761 |
31,942 31,942 |
|---|---|---|
The 'SORP Ref' indicated above is the classification of Balance Sheet items as set out in the formal SORP documents. As required by paragraph 4.60 of the SORP, the brought forward and carried forward funds above have been agreed to the SOFA.
The directors are satisfied that the company is entitled to exemption from the requirement to obtain an audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Act.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006. applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
paul francis
30 Jul 2024
Paul Francis
Trustee Approved by the board of trustees on 29 July 2024 Approved by the board of trustees on 29 July 2024
The notes attached on pages 15 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
14
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
1 Accounting policies
Policies relating to the production of the accounts.
Basis of preparation and accounting convention
The accounts have been prepared on the accruals basis, under the historical cost convention, and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 and FRS 102 SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities) published by the Charity Commission in England & Wales (CCEW), effective January 2019, (The SORP), and in accordance with all applicable law in the charity's jurisdiction of registration.
Risks and future assumptions
Given the charity's small size, it does not have a formal risk policy, though the Trustees are mindful of the strategic business and operational risks to which the charity might be exposed. The charity is a public benefit entity.
Policies relating to categories of income and income recognition.
Nature of income
Gross income represents the value, net of value added tax and discounts, of goods provided to customers and work carried out in respect of services provided to customers.
Categories of Income
Income is categorised as income from exchange transactions (contract income) and income from non-exchange transactions (gifts), investment income and other income.
Income from exchange transactions is received by the charity for goods or services supplied under contract or where entitlement is subject to fulfilling performance related conditions. The income the charity receives is approximately equal in value to the goods or services supplied by the charity to the purchaser.
Income from a non-exchange transaction is where the charity receives value from the donor without providing equal value in exchange, and includes donations of money, goods and services freely given without giving equal value in exchange.
Income recognition
Income, whether from exchange or non exchange transactions, is recognised in the statement of financial activities (SOFA) on a receivable basis, when a transaction or other event results in an increase in the charity’s assets or a reduction in its liabilities and only when the charity has legal entitlement, the income is probable and can be measured reliably.
Income subject to terms and conditions which must be met before the charity is entitled to the resources is not recognised until the conditions have been met.
All income is accounted for gross, before deducting any related fees or costs.
15
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
Accounting for deferred income and income received in advance
Where terms and conditions relating to income have not been met or uncertainty exists as to whether the charity can meet any terms or conditions otherwise within its control, income is not recognised but is deferred as a liability until it is probable that the terms or conditions imposed can be met.
Any grant that is subject to performance-related conditions received in advance of delivering the goods and services required by that condition, or is subject to unmet conditions wholly outside the control of the recipient charity, is accounted for as a liability and shown on the balance sheet as deferred income. Deferred income is released to income in the reporting period in which the performance-related or other conditions that limit recognition are met.
When income from a grant or donation has not been recognised due to the conditions applying to the gift not being wholly within the control of the recipient charity, it is disclosed as a contingent asset if receipt of the grant or donation is probable once those conditions are met.
Where time related conditions are imposed or implied by a funder, then the income is apportioned to the time periods concerned, and, where applicable, is accounted for as a liability and shown on the balance sheet as deferred income. When grants are received in advance of the expenditure on the activity funded by them, but there are no specific time related conditions, then the income is not deferred.
Any condition that allows for the recovery by the donor of any unexpended part of a grant does not prevent recognition of the income concerned, but a liability to any repayment is recognised when repayment becomes probable.
Income from legacies
Income from legacies is recognised when the charity has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them, that where required, probate has been granted, the executor is satisfied that the property in question will not be required to satisfy claims in the estate, that it is probable that the amount will be received by the charity, and the amount to be received can be estimated with sufficient accuracy, and that any conditions attached to the legacy are either within the control of the charity or have been met.
Where a payment is received from an estate or is notified as receivable by the executors after the reporting date and before the accounts are authorised for issue but it is clear that the payment had been agreed by the executors prior to the end of the reporting period, then the amount concerned is treated as an adjusting event and accrued as income in the accounting period if receipt is probable.
Where the charity has established entitlement to a legacy but there is uncertainty as to the amount of the payment, details of the legacy are disclosed as a contingent asset until the criteria for income recognition are met. Where a legacy is subject to the interest of a life tenant, the legacy is not recognised as income until the death of the life tenant.
If it is doubtful that full settlement of a legacy debtor will be received, then an adjustment is made to reduce the amount of the legacy debtor and legacy income rather than charging the adjustment as expenditure in the Statement of Financial Activities
Donated goods, facilities and services
Donated fixed assets are recognised at the current fair value. All such donations are recognised as donation income, and debited to fixed assets. However, see exception discussed under heading "Heritage Assets" below.
Donated goods that are not fixed assets are accounted for at a fair value, unless it is impractical to reliably measure the value of the donated items.
In the absence of any direct evidence of fair value of donated goods, then a value is derived from the cost of the item to the donor or, in the case of goods that are expected to be sold, the estimated resale value after deducting any anticipated costs of sales.
If it is impracticable to measure the fair value of goods donated for resale, or the costs of valuation outweigh the benefits, the donated goods are recognised as income when sold, with an equivalent amount being recognised as an expense.
The costs of goods donated for distribution to beneficiaries is deemed to be the fair value of those goods upon receipt. When the goods are distributed freely or for a nominal consideration, then the carrying amount is adjusted at the time of sale, to the value at the point of distribution and the adjustment is shown as a cost of donations made.
16
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
The carrying amount of any stock held for distribution is assessed for impairment at the reporting date. All donated goods are recognised as donation income, and debited to trading stock. When trading stock is subsequently sold, or appropriated to meet an expense, then the carrying value of the stock is recognised as an expense. In accordance with the SORP, goods donated for distribution to beneficiaries, or for consumption by the charity are included in 'legacies and donations '. Goods donated for resale are included in 'Income from other trading activities'
The cost of any stock of goods donated for distribution to beneficiaries is deemed to be the fair value of those gifts at the time of their receipt. If the goods held are to be distributed freely or for a nominal consideration, then the carrying amount is subsequently adjusted to reflect the lower of deemed cost adjusted for any loss of service potential and replacement cost. Replacement cost is the economic cost incurred if the charity was to replace the service potential of the donated goods at its own expense in the most economic manner.
Donated services and facilities (including seconded staff and use of property) are included in the accounts on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity.
All donated services and facilities are recognised as donation income when received,(provided the value of the gift can be measured reliably) and recognised as an expense with an equivalent value.
Membership subscriptions
The income and any associated Gift Aid or other tax refund from a membership subscription received by the charity in the nature of a gift, is accounted for on the same basis as a donation.
The income from a membership subscription received by the charity where the subscription purchases the right to services or benefits is recognised as income from charitable activities.
Policies relating to expenditure on goods and services provided to the charity.
Recognition of liabilities and expenditure
A liability, and the related expenditure, is recognised when a legal or constructive obligation exists as a result of a past event, and when it is more likely than not that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and when the amount of the obligation can be measured or reliably estimated..
Liabilities arising from future funding commitments and constructive obligations, including performance related grants, where the timing or the amount of the future expenditure required to settle the obligation are uncertain, give rise to a provision in the accounts, which is reviewed at the accounting year end. The provision is increased to reflect any increases in liabilities, and is decreased by the utilisation of any provision within the period, and reversed if any provision is no longer required. These movements are charged or credited to the respective funds and activities to which the provision relates.
17
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
Allocating costs to activities
Direct costs that are specifically related to an activity are allocated to that activity. Shared direct costs and support costs are apportioned between activities only if material. General administration expenses are not apportioned to activities.
Policies relating to assets, liabilities and provisions and other matters.
Heritage assets
Since its recognition as a charitable company, the charity has held an archive of books and other research material. The vast majority of items in the archive were donated to the predecessor organisations over many years. The collection in existence at the date of its transfer to the charity is not recognised in the Balance Sheet as cost information is not readily available, but the Trustees intend to obtain valuations for these items once they have been catalogued. The Charity's management policy in this respect is summarised in note 9. Individual heritage assets acquired post 21 July 2014 costing £50 or greater will be capitalised but not depreciated in view of the nature of the archive.
The two predecessor bodies transferred the archive materials referred to in the Trustees' Report to Airfield Research Group Limited at the point it was registered as a charity. No value is however recognised in respect of the collection in existence at the date of transfer to the charity, as explained above. This collection is administered by the Trustees and is kept at Alconbury Weald, located on part of the former RAF Alconbury.
It is the Trustees' expectation that funding for further acquisitions will come principally from membership subscriptions and donations. The charity will continue to dispose of donated goods (principally surplus books) to help fund its operations.
Debtors
Debtors are measured at their recoverable amounts at the balance sheet date.
Creditors and provisions
Liabilities are recognised on the accruals basis in accordance with normal accounting policies, modified where necessary in accordance with the guidance given in the SORP.
2 Liability to taxation
The Trustees consider that the charity satisfies the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the Charity is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by chapter 3 part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively on the specific charitable objects of the charity and for no other purpose. Value Added Tax is not recoverable by the charity, and is therefore included in the relevant costs in the Statement of Financial Activities.
3 Winding up or dissolution of the charity
If upon winding up or dissolution of the charity there remain any assets, after the satisfaction of all debts and liabilities, the assets represented by the accumulated fund shall be transferred to some other charitable body or bodies having similar objects to the charity.
18
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
4 The contribution of volunteers
Airfield Research Group Ltd is an exclusively volunteer organisation, with no employed staff. It is therefore crucially dependent upon the dedication, hard work and goodwill of a limited number of volunteers to deliver its objectives and activities. Also, the content of the flagship Airfield Review comes entirely from contributions by volunteer members of the Group. More volunteers would enable ARG to carry out more pro-active presentational work and accelerate cataloguing of the Archive.
No employees received emoluments (excluding pension costs) in excess of £60,000 per annum.
5 Defined contribution pension schemes
The Charity does not operate a pension scheme.
6 Remuneration and payments to Trustees and persons connected with them
| 2023 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Paul Bellamy - reimbursement of expenses | 298 | |
| Paul Francis - consultancy fee incurred directly in support of generation of consultancy | ||
| income by the Charity | 11658 | |
| Paul Francis - Commissions paid from sales of "Works & Bricks" - cost incurred directly in | ||
| generation of sale of goods in accordance with the charity's objects | 1061 | 2366 |
| Jeffrey Hawley - consultancy fee incurred directly in support of generation of consultancy | ||
| income by the Charity | 3886 | |
| Jeffrey Hawley - reimbursed expenses | 232 | |
| John Gilby - reimbursed expenses | 713 | 603 |
| Peter Howarth- reimbursed expenses | 53 | 53 |
| Jayne Wrights - reimbursed expenses | 65 | 24 |
7 Heritage assets included in the accounts
| Cost At 1 January 2023 Additions Disposals At 31 December 2023 Depreciation At 31 December 2023 Net book value |
At cost 2023 5,233 - - 5,233 - 5,233 |
At valuation 2023 - - - - - - |
Total of valuation and cost 2023 5,233 - - 5,233 - 5,233 |
Total of valuation and cost 2022 2,742 2,491 - 5,233 - 5,233 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The value represents historical host of heritage assets acquired post 21 July 2014 costing at least £50. Heritage assets are not depreciated in view of the nature of the archive.
19
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
The two predecessor bodies transferred the archive materials referred to in the Trustees' Report to Airfield Research Group Limited at the point it was registered as a charity. No value is however recognised in respect of the collection in existence at the date of transfer to the charity, as explained above. This collection is administered by the Trustees and is kept at Alconbury Weald, located on part of the former RAF Alconbury.
It is the Trustees' expectation that funding for further acquisitions will come principally from
membership subscriptions and donations. The charity will continue to dispose of donated goods (principally surplus books) to help fund its operations.
8 Debtors
| Other debtors 9 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Accruals |
2023 £ - 2023 £ 2,810 |
2022 £ 46 2022 £ 892 |
|---|---|---|
10 Loans to trustees included in debtors
None
11 Guarantees made by the charity on behalf of trustees
None
| 12 Income and Expenditure account summary At 1 January 2023 Surplus/(loss) after tax for the year At 31 December 2023 |
2023 £ 31,942 4,819 36,761 |
2022 £ 33,246 (1,304) 31,942 |
|---|---|---|
13 Particulars of how particular funds are represented by assets and liabilities
| At 31 December 2023 Heritage Assets Investments at valuation:- Current Assets Current Liabilities At 1 January 2023 Heritage Assets Investments at valuation:- Current Assets Current Liabilities |
Unrestricted funds £ 5,233 34,338 (2,810) 36,761 Unrestricted funds £ 5,233 27,634 (925) 31,942 |
Designated funds £ - - - - Designated funds £ - - - - |
Restricted funds £ - - - - Restricted funds £ - - - - |
Total Funds £ 5,233 34,338 (2,810) 36,761 Total Funds £ 5,233 27,634 (925) 31,942 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
20
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023
14 Change in total funds over the year as shown in Note 13 , analysed by individual funds
| Unrestricted and designated funds:- Unrestricted Revenue Funds Total unrestricted and designated funds Total charity funds |
£ 31,942 31,942 31,942 Funds brought forward from 2022 |
See Note 15 £ 4,819 4,819 4,819 Movement in funds in 2023 |
See Note 0 £ - - - Transfers between funds in 2023 |
£ 36,761 36,761 36,761 Funds carried forward to 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
15 Analysis of movements in funds over the year as shown in Note 14
| Unrestricted and designated funds:- Unrestricted Revenue Funds |
Income 2023 £ 33,997 33,997 |
Expenditure 2023 £ (29,178) (29,178) |
Other Gains & Losses 2023 £ - - |
Movement in funds 2023 £ 4,819 4,819 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
16 The purposes for which the funds as detailed in note 14 are held by the charity are:-
Unrestricted and designated funds:-
Unrestricted Revenue Funds
Unrestricted Revaluation Reserve
These funds are held for the meeting the objectives of the charity, and to provide reserves for future activities, and , subject to charity legislation, are free from all restrictions on their use.
This fund represents the unrestricted surplus arising on the revaluation of the charity's assets.
N/A
Designated Revenue Funds
Designated Fixed Asset Funds
N/A
Restricted funds:-
Restricted Fixed Asset Funds Restricted Revaluation Reserve
The purpose of these funds is described under the accounting policy 'Accounting for capital grants and fixed asset funds'. This fund represents the restricted surplus arising on the revaluation of the charity's assets.
17 Ultimate controlling party
The charity is under the control of its legal members.
Every member of the charity is obliged to contribute such amount as may be required not exceeding £10 to the assets of the company in the event of its being wound up while he or she is a member, or within one year after he or she ceases to be a member.
21
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
This analysis is classsified by conventional nominal descriptions and not by activity.
18 Donations and Legacies
| Current year Current year Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2023 2023 £ £ Donations and gifts from individuals 1,272 - - - 1,272 - 9,545 - Total Donations and Legacies A1 10,817 - Income from charitable activities - Trading Activities Current year Current year Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2023 2023 £ £ Primary purpose and ancillary trading 2,725 - 19,430 - 641 - - - 22,796 - Members visits Total Primary purpose and ancillary trading Ancillary trading in support of charitable objects Sale of goods and services in accordance with the charity's objects Small donations individually less than £1000 Total donations and gifts from individuals Donation Membership subscriptions as donations Website advertising income |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 1,272 - 1,272 9,545 10,817 Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 2,725 19,430 641 - 22,796 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 1,305 - 1,305 9,209 10,514 Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 5,534 80 1,386 - 7,000 |
|---|---|---|
19 Income from charitable activities - Trading Activities
20 Total Income from charitable activities
| Total income from charitable trading Total from charitable activities A2 |
Current year Unrestricted Funds £ 2023 22,796 22,796 |
Current year Restricted Funds £ 2023 - - |
Current year Total Funds £ 2023 22,796 22,796 |
Prior Year Total Funds £ 2022 7,000 7,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
22
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
21 Investment income
| Bank Interest Receivable Total investment income A4 |
Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ 384 384 |
Current year Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 384 384 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 86 86 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
22 Expenditure on charitable activities - Direct spending
| Total direct spending B2a Consultancy fees Members visits Members' costs |
Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ 130 15,620 - 16,811 |
Current year Restricted Funds 2023 £ - - - - |
Current year Total Funds 2023 £ 130 15,620 - 16,811 |
Prior Year Total Funds 2022 £ 895 - 1,095 4,356 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
23 Expenditure on charitable activities - Charitable trading
| Reallocated from support costs Total charitable trading costs B2b Books for web sales Cost of goods for primary purpose trading Publishing costs - books Website costs Archive costs Publishing costs - Airfield review |
Current year Unrestricted Funds 2023 £ - - 6,281 - 781 885 - 8,800 |
Current year Current year Prior Year Restricted Funds Total Funds Total Funds 2023 2023 2022 £ £ £ - - - - - - - 6,281 5,467 - - 4,142 - 781 647 - 885 992 - - - - 8,800 8,508 |
|---|---|---|
23
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
24 Support costs for charitable activities
| 24 Support costs for charitable activiti |
es | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current year | Current year | Current year | Prior Year | |
| Unrestricted | Restricted Funds | Total Funds | Total Funds | |
| Funds | ||||
| 2023 | 2023 | 2023 | 2022 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Premises Expenses | ||||
| Rates and water charges | 1,560 | - | 1,560 | 1,485 |
| Administrative overheads | ||||
| Postage | 276 | - | 276 | 488 |
| Membership subscriptions | 121 | - | 121 | 218 |
| Software licences and expenses | - | - | - | - |
| Liabilty and contents insurance | (318) | - | (318) | 2,252 |
| Professional fees paid to the Auditor or Independent Examiner in addition to audit | and | |||
| examination fees | ||||
| As detailed in Note 25 | - | - | - | - |
| Accountancy fees other than examination or audit fees |
450 | - | 450 | 524 |
| Tax advice | - | - | - | - |
| Legal fees | - | - | - | - |
| Financial costs | ||||
| Bank charges | 61 | - | 61 | 96 |
| PayPal charges | 171 | - | 171 | 249 |
| Support costs before reallocation | 2,461 | - | 2,461 | 5,382 |
| Less support costs reallocated to specific activities | ||||
| To charitable trading costs | - | - | - | - |
| Total support costs | 2,461 | - | 2,461 | 5,382 |
| The basis of allocation of costs between activities is described | under accounting | policies |
24
Airfield Research Group Ltd
Detailed analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2023 as required by the SORP 2015
25 Other Expenditure - Governance costs
| Current year Current year |
Current year Prior Year |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted Restricted Funds |
Total Funds Total Funds |
|||
| Funds | ||||
| 2023 2023 |
2023 2022 |
|||
| £ £ |
£ £ |
|||
| AGM costs | 436 - |
436 658 |
||
| Total Governance costs | 856 - |
856 658 |
||
| Professional fees paid to the Auditor | or Independent Examiner in addition to audit and | |||
| examination fees | ||||
| Assurance -Non audit or examination | - - |
2023 2022 £ £ - - |
||
| Total additional fees included in | ||||
| support costs at Note 24 | - - |
- - |
||
| **26 ** | Total Charitable expenditure | |||
| Total direct spending | B2a | Current year Current year Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2023 2023 £ £ 16,811 - |
Current year Prior Year Total Funds Total Funds 2023 2022 £ £ 16,811 4,356 |
|
| Total charitable trading costs | B2b | 8,800 - |
8,800 8,508 |
|
| Total support costs | B2d | 2,461 - |
2,461 5,382 |
|
| Total Governance costs | B2e | 856 - |
856 658 |
|
| Total charitable expenditure | B2 | 28,928 - |
28,928 18,904 |
25
Issuer
Issuer Haden Chartered Accountants Document generated Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:37 BST Document fingerprint 4a3d089dfd6c73053752c706430229ef
Parties involved with this document
Document processed Party + Fingerprint Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Mr Paul Francis - Signer (bd94ce62b06fec6a732be27712c8016e) Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Mr Peter James Howarth - Copied In (adef7bf1f6a4e154fd9a55963373c7d4) Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST Mr Norman Richard Brice - Copied In (cf910d8e094964070c384343f45ee9d1)
Audit history log
Date Action Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:37 BST Envelope generated with fingerprint 4508daa72ea7b7b0cafe5da0d86f041618.133.63.166 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Document generated with fingerprint 4a3d089dfd6c73053752c706430229ef.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Document generated with fingerprint c9c28d0feaca5f147955b3784fc52c2a.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Envelope generated.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Mr Paul Francis has been assigned to this envelope.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Mr Peter James Howarth has been assigned to this envelope.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Mr Norman Richard Brice has been assigned to this envelope.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Envelope has been set to automatically remind the active signer every 7 day(s).3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Envelope has been set to automatically expire after 182 day(s).3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Sent the envelope to Mr Paul Francis for signing.3.8.99.126 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:49 BST Document emailed to party email13.41.194.27 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:27:25 BST Mr Paul Francis viewed the envelope82.6.73.101 Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Mr Paul Francis signed the envelope82.6.73.101
Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:39 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:04:49 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:27:25 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:31 BST Tue, 30th Jul 2024 10:30:32 BST
Sent the envelope to Mr Peter James Howarth for signing82.6.73.101 Sent the envelope to Mr Norman Richard Brice for signing82.6.73.101
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This envelope has been signed by all parties82.6.73.101 Mr Paul Francis viewed the envelope82.6.73.101 Document emailed to party email18.133.28.202 Document emailed to party email13.41.157.131
Independent examiner's report on the accounts
Section A Independent Examiner’s Report
Report to the trustees/ Charity Name AIRFIELD RESEARCH GROUP LTD members of On accounts for the year 31 December 2023 Charity no 1157924 ended (if any) Set out on pages 1 (remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets)
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31 December 2023.
- Responsibilities and As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation basis of report of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed 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 confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or
-
the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Date: 23[rd] August 2024 Signed: Name: Dorota M Haden FCA Relevant professional ICAEW qualification(s) or body (if any): Address: Rookery Nook, Chapel Lane Osmington, Weymouth DT3 6ET
1
October 2018
IER