INh- g I 2025 Parish of St. Bartholomew's ' Wickham Bishops with St. Nicholas, Little Braxted ANf4UAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH Sunday 26th April 2026 at 12 noon in St. Bartholomew's Church Hall THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND 36
Welcome to the Annual Report for the year 2025 Page Number Admlnlstrative InformaOn The agenda for the meeting, together with last ye3rf5 minutes are available as separate documents, along with the Accounts and nominations forthe election of PCC members and Churchwardens. PCC Members and offir$ Electoral Roll Vlce Chalrman's Report PCC Report io Ourthanks go to all who have contributed to this report. Clergy cover durlng vacancy li Safeguarding 12-13 Thank5 too to those who have given so generously of their time and slcills in supporting the work of our two churches during a second challenging year of interregnum. Deanery Synod 14-15 Fabrit Report 16-17 Finance 18-19 Worshlp inc. Choir and St. Nlcholas 19-23 There are many unsung heroesto thank, not least our flower ladies, those who clean the church, loolc after our altar linen, make the coffee, manage our numerous rotas and many morel Pastoral Including Drop-in Communltv 24 25 26-27 Additional volunteers are always welcome.. Discipleshlp 28- 29 Fundralslng and Social 30- 31 THANK YOU Edward Bear 32-33 Guardians 34 Contacts 35
services of a paid Benefice Administrator who will take on enquiries for Weddings, Baptisms and Funerals. Geraldine Speannan PCC Secretary Information The Parish of St Bartholomew Wickham Bishops with St Nicholas Little Braxted is situated in the Witham Deanery, part of the Diocese of Chelmsford. It has responsibility for two principal places of wor- ship - St Bartholomew's Church, the Parish Church, which is situated in Church Road, Wickham Bishops and St Nichola5 Little Braxted. St Nicholas is situated in Witham Road, Little Braxted. Informatlon about the churches in Wickham Bishops and ttle Braxted is also available at- www.churchinwickhambisho s.or .uk andalso on A riear Yoil web51te The Parochial Church Councll of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Wickham Bishops with Little Braxted is a Registered Charlty No. 1159874. PCC Members offirS as atjanuary 2026 Priest in Charge.. Vacant Priest with Permisslon to Officiate: Revd, Derek Clark Churchwarden5'. Vacant Position x 2 Elected Representstlves Ta April ?O?.S John Baker Kate Dawson Tp Aprll ?077 Dorothy Kerr Maggie Drewett Barry Cousins Elizabeth Joslin Graham Win8rove Witham Deanery is undergolng a perlod of transition and strategic engagement focused on sustaining ministry and misslon beyond 2026. The restructure has been in process for 2 years and can only come into practice when the Legal process has taken place. The Parish has been in interregnum since Aprll 2024 and with the re- structure we are now moving into a United Benefice of 18 parishes. Within that Benefice we are part of a new 'Clusterf of churches called the Beacon Pari5he5. This comprises, our two churches, Great rotham, Little Totham and Goldhanger. There will be 4 clusters with- in (he 18 parish Benefice, each with a full-time stipendiary priest. Tn Aprll ?028 Graham Speaman Francine Cope (Standing down 20261 Ex.nfficto Geraldine Spearman - PCC Setretary DeaeSyDd Re Christine Bealer John Gilbert {standin8 down 2026} The new priest may reside either in the Wickham Bishops Rectory or the Great Totham Rectory. The post will come under the leadership of a Team Rector who will be based in Tiptree. We will also have the
Other Officer PCC Wice-chair & Treasurer: Graham Spearman This is Year2 of the fully revised Elettoral Roll and requires that all Members are contacted to ascertain whetherthey wish to remain for 2026. No form filling this year. Emailslsome letters were sent out. and some phone calls were made. l arn grateful for the speedy responses. Safeguarding Offir. Brian Joslln Safeguardin8 Trainin8.' Francine Cope Electoral Roll Offir. Mary Brown In total there are 98 people on the 2026 Church Electoral Roll,. of these 74 live in the Parish, and 24 are non-resident. Deputy Churchwarden: Graham Win8rove Pastoral Assistant= Christine Bealer One member requested removal from the Electoral Roll and one mernber has sadly died during the last year. Three ofthe members who did not return their form last year land were rernoved from the 2025 Roll) have asked to be reinstated, and their forms have now been received. Sidesper50ns'. Kath Adkins Nomia Hayward Kate Dawson Lester Firkins Dorothy Kerr Stuart Parish Thank you to everyone foryour co-operation in preparing The Roll for 2026. Wendy Firkins John Kerr John Wratten Francine Cope Denise Yelland Dick Yelland Mary Brown, Elettoral Roll Offir Geraldine Spearman Vivienne Lodge Chri5 Baker Allan Baker If you're interested in becoming a Sidesperson or reading one of the lessons at the seThlces please speok to Dorothy Kerr.
Draft Proposals for creation of the new Benefice to be known as "the Blackwater Benefice." Views on the draft proposal are asked to be forwarded to Canon Nathan Whitehead at the Diocese as soon as possible and not later than midnight on 8 May 2026. If anybody wants to know more please talk to me. I can also advise that the vacancy for Team Rector Designate, to be based at Tiptree, 15 now being advertised. The advesernent for a Team Vicar for our Cluster, to be l<nown as the Beacon Cluster was due to be published in March, We are meeting with the other three Parishes in our Cluster and thanks to Ma88le Drewett who has started a monthly prayer group as well as a Prayer Chain for our awn Parish. Where we are now is only because there are so many people who have contributed a lot of effort so often quietly in the background I am reluctant to name name5 because inevitably I will mlss someone out. You all know who you are 50 thank you. Whilst I must acl<nowledge my bias, we really do need to say a huge thank you to our PCC Secretary, Geraldine. She has worked very hard on all the Parish administration for the past two year5. Hopefullv some of this is going to be taken on by the Administrator of the current Blackwater Group. That said we have some reservations because of the lack of local knowledge which is so often necessary. We do not know what the future holds but I do think that we have a healthy and supporknve congregation as well as bein8 reco8nised in the village community. Whatever happens in the coming months your PCC will do it all it can to sustain our Parish Life. Vice Chairman's Report Whilst l am writing this report I must acknowledge that I have only held this role since November 2025.1 wish to thank my predecessor John Gilbert for all his hard work and contributions during most of 2025. Well here we are 2 years having passed without an I ncumbent. I hope everyone agrees that we have done well in maintaining our pattern of worship which is what the PCC agreed following Reverend Hilary's retirement. This Is largely down to Barry Cousins and an extraordinary amount of effort he puts in to fi'nd clergy to officiate. Please see Barry's report on this topic. I wish to re-iterate his thanks to Reverend Derek who has enabled us to continue with our lucharistic services at St BarthoSomew's. It is great for u5 that Derek has indicated that he is prepared to continue with the same arrangerllents. U nfortunately Barry's lob is gethng increasingly difficult. Two clergv have been lost from the Deanery, Reverend Ann- Marie Renshaw and Revorend Natasha Mcmichael havin8 moved away to new posts in other parts of the country. This will be compounded with Rev Noah Cockett applying for posts now that he Is coming to the end of his Curacy at St Nlcolas Witham. Hence there are fewer clergy to call on. As well as our services we have maintained our Bible Study Groups, Womens Christian Fellowship, Drop In and Edward Bear. We need to recogni5e and thank all those who work so hard to enable these events to happen. The proposed new Benefice of 18 Parishes, 19 Churches, seem5 to be moving very slowly. In early March we received from the Diocese the Graham Spearman Vice-chairman
carried out by myself as PCC Secretary. This will come into place once the funding of the role has been confirmed. The PCC is to be thanked for their increased workload and commitment during this time and thanks again to members for their support and patience throughout 2025, Geraldlne Spearman PCC Secretary PCC Report The PCC members are Charity Trustee5 and have ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the church is solvent and well run. Our Electoral Roll membership in 2025 entitled our Parish to 9 laity PCC member5 plus 2 De3nery Synod Reps. Rev. Derek Clark and Secretary Geraldine are both ex-officio members. The post of Churchwarden remains vacant. The Standing Committee, which decides on the PCC agenda items, is comprised Df the Chair, Secretary, Pastoral Asslstant and Deputy ChurchwardeN. Rev. H ilary retired in April 2024 and the Parish has been in interregnum since this time. We have had our usual PCC meetings six times this year with the addition of extra ones to disCUSS the proposed re-organisation and re-structure of the Benefice. These included attendance f rom Bishop Roger, the Area Dean 8nd Archdeacon5. John Gilbert valiantly stepped in as Vice-chair, in the absence of a Priest in Charge and latterly, Graham Spearman has taken the Vice-chair's role. Safeguarding and Finances are standard agenda items for discussion along with reports from the 4 committee5. The Parish Safeguarding Officer has attended meetings to give regular update5. The re-structure has understandably become the focus of some of our meetings and the changes that are ahead, as we move into the new Beacon Parish cluster of 5 churches and the 18 Parish Benefice. We have tried to maintain 'business as usual, and PCC members have taken on additional responsibilities to ensure that services and other activities could continue without too much disruption to our church PCC member5 have also been invited to attend additional meetings of the Cluster, the Benefice and pre5entation5 of the new structure plans and the Leg31 aspects required. We are hoping to benefit from the services of one of the Benefice Administrators to take on some of the tasks which currently are CLERGY COVER DURING VACANCY Th nk You We approach a third year in Vacancy- it is two years ago that Rev Hilary moved on into retirement I We have been blessed with many and various ordained ministers, both serving and retired who have valiantly stepped up to maintain our regular and occasional services. We are and remain extremely grateful for their services week in and week out. land I'm not sure that many if any, have claimed their fiscal duesl. The list is quite long, and most would not want to see their names in print, but I believe that there are a few stalwarts that deserve to be honoured for their unstinting and regular support. Sparing his blushes we must especially thank Rev Derek for his valiant support dashing from an earlier service at U lting Sunday after Sunday. Very regular support has come from other retired priests, especially Rev John Chandler and Rev Rose Braisby. There are many others currently in service in the Diocese. Archdeaconry and Area Deanery who have provided frequent andlor occasional support in their busy lives- we are grateful for their continuing help and happily polish their halos I Barry Cousins li io
Seek to ensure that Sofer Recruitmentpractice isfollowed, with the support of diocese. Attend diocesan 5a uardin troinin Maintain sofeguardNng records,. Complete national, dioce50n andparish safrguarding seff- 0sse55ments as required,. Contribute to the onnuol review of parish Safeguarding arrangement5,- I regularly report on safe8uarding in the parish. Safeguarding Is a stsnding agenda item at each PCC meeting. l arn also be re5ponsiblefor Being the DBSAdministrotor [within the Diocese of Chelmsford we use the temi Registered Recruiterj Supporting other church offi'cers who work with children or vulnerable odults.. Providing orarranging provision of sofeguording training safeguarding learnin8 and development module5 for parish worker5 (both volunteers and paidstoff, in lioison with Froncine Cope.. Displayed around the Churches in Wickham Bishops and Little Braxted are a variety of safeguarding posters which give contact details for safeguarding concerns. I try to ensure that these are kept up to date, Each of the two churches has a supply lon prominent display) of our Safeguarding Policy and Useful contact details for 5afeguardin8- contacts both within and outside the Church of England. The Diocese of Chelmsford has a Safeguardin8 Dashboard which I regularly access to ensure that the polices and procedures we have in place are regularly reviewed and brought up to date. Brian Joslln Parish Safe8uardln8 Officer Safeguarding ot leost every three yeors,. Nom7a Ht7yward had workedfvr many yeots 05 the Pansh Safrguarding OffirfOrst BartholoMeS Wickham Bishops with St Nichola5 Little Braxted. l om very gratefvl to Nonnafvr the guidonce that she continues to give to me os her5uccessor In thot mle. "I"he Church of En land CofE prioritizes safeguarding a5 an integral part of its mission, aiming to create a safer church for children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Key measures include robust policies, mandatory training, safer recruitment IDBS check51, and collaboration with statutory aLJthorities. The National Safeguarding Team oversees these, with local responsibility held by parishe5. My role as a Parlsh Safrguordlng Officer (PSO) Is to.. Work closely with the incumbent (ond in the absence of an incumbent, the PCC) to advise within the parish on oll 5ofeguurding matters relating to children. young people and vulneroble adults,. Receive, with the incumbent. Jny concerns t7bout children or adults in the porish and make sure thot proper odvice is 50U9ht and prDper referrt71s ore mode,. Report all motters relating to concems and ollegotions of abuse agoinst church officers, in liaison with the incumbent. to the DSA [Dioceson Safeguarding Adviser] who will lit7ise with the stotutory agencies, os required. Concerns obout the incumbent should be raised directly with the DSA,. Ensure that any ex-offenders with offences ogainst children or vulneroble adults known to be in the church community are notified to the D5A and contribute to m(7naging Saftguording Agreements,. PromDte saferpractlces in Gll activities and make any recommendations required taking into occount the porticular arrongements of the parish,. 13 12
During the last year, presentations at our Deanery meetings were as follows: February Ilth 2025 '. Introduction to the Strategic Mission & Ministry Investment Board by Wendy Lidgate. Deanery Plan Restructuring presentation by Rev.A-M Renshaw June 18th 2025: Developing Lay Ministry by Caroline Harding Progress on the new Central Benefice October 22nd 2025: Generosity, Giving & Diocesan Support by Michelle Cottis & Becky Hills. Update on the New Central Benefice Deanery Syno(r- A deanery is part of the governance structure of the Church of England, linking to the Diocesan Synod and to General Synod through elected representstives. Meetings are chaired by the Rural Dean, in our case Rev. Simon Garwood and a Lay Chair, Simon May. Synod meetings are held up to four times a year and regular business includes updates on the Deanerfs Parish Share payments, events and activities in the Parishes and perhaps a session on a matter of interest. A report of the latest meeting of the General Synod can also be circulated. Christine Bealer &John Gilbert The word "Synod" comes from a Greek word meanin8"assemblf or "meeting" A Deanery Synod con515ts of all the clergy licensed to a Benefice/ parish within the Deanery and elected lay members - each parish is allocated a number of lay places on the Deanery Synod based on the size of their electoral roll. Deanery Synod members are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting to serve a three-year terni. What does a Deanery Synod do? The Deanery Synod makes decisions at a deanery level. It acts as an intermediary between the parochial church councils of each parish and the synod of the diocese as a whole. Deaneries also have the power to bring proposals and motions to Diocesan Synod for debate. What do Deanery Synod lay member5 doP Deanery Synod members are invited to attend four Deanery Synod meetings per year. These are held at variou5 locations in the Deanery, and are generally approximately two hours long. The agenda and papers about matters to be discussed are circulated to members in advance. Some decisions are put to the vote. Deanery Synod members are a150 automatically mombors of their parish's Parochial Church Council IPCCI, and so attend those meetings as well. PJTr5hyune Fct De3nerySw Fabric After the extensive redecoration of St Bartholomews completed by Bakerfs last year, activity levels have been quieter. Rick Smith stepped down as Chairman of the Fabric Committee in January. his contributions were deeply valued. In May, the Committee welcomed Allan Baker who assumed the role and has proven to be a great asset. John Popham, a valued member of the Fabric Comrnittee, sadly passed away this year. His kindness and acknve participatian greatly benefited the church and community. 14
vestry went out. The fuse was removed and a temporary LED portable light used instead. The light has been fixed by Sigma with replaced circuitry and reflector. Lighting protection, PAT testing, and fire extinguisher inspections were all completed in 2025. The Community Payback team do a splendid job in keeping the churchyard grounds tidy. Beth Lunn from the Probation Service annually reviews the documentation to ensure a thorough and up to date risk assessment. This year the new agreement form was written in more detail, Beth Lunn forwarded the documents to the Fabric Committee for review. The Memorandum of Understanding and Risk Assessment were reviewed and agreed by the Fabrlc Committee Meetin8 and then forwarded to the PCC for sign off and approval at the October 2025 meeting. The maintenance of the churchyard and graveyard is managed by dedicated volunteers, who are organised on a rota by Dick Yelland. Additionally, two scheduled clean-up efforts In March and November have ensured that the area remains well-kept and presentable. Also undertaken this year wa5 the cutknn8 back of the laurels along the border of the nei8hbourin8 property at the rear of the church. .Fobrlc Report conunued th ST BARTHOLOMEWS - June 8 saw the retum of the superb biennial Wickham Bishops Garden Festival and the Garden Festival Concert held in September. In November proceeds from the festrval funded the porch renovation. The porch along with three doors were stained and treated by Ollies Garden Service5, greatly enhancin8 the entrance's appearance. The li8ht at the front entrance of the porch was also replaced. During last yeads interior refurbishment works the choir stall heat- ers were disconnected. Sigma restored the connection earlier thi5 year and the heaters are working again. The fan heaters in the church hall stopped workin8 because of a faulty 5Wltch, however Slgma repaired the switch and the heaters are back in operation. Draina8e/Foul water- Followln8 Jlggin's annual inspecuon of the pump and chamber a fault in the float stop was located and a tem- porary rig installed, the replacement float was installed in February. Followlng the Open Gardens event in June a routine cleaning of the pump chamber and jetting of pipes was carried out,. however a tan- gled lead was left in the high-level pump chamber causing a false alarm, this was remedied by Jiggins. The cleaning of the gulleys and valleys was deemed necessary as they tended to become blocked and overfiow causing dampness to penetrate the walls. This year it was arranged for DNPS Building Contractors to carry out an inspection and clean the gulleys and valleys twice a year. There had been problems with the pulpit light. When the pulpit light was turned on the lights in the sr NICHOLAS The replacement Corona at St Nicholas was completed last year and a Dedicadon Service held Decernber 2024 at the carol seNice. Quinquennial inspection undertaken by Hilary Brightman. Quotations for works have been received, and Lodge and Sons will be recommended to the PCC. Rainwater hopper/valley and gutter clearing carried out by DNPS lce a year Works to collapsing gravestone have been completed. Thanks go to Jonathan Aldis for keeping the church ground5 in good order. Maggie Grice Committee Secretary 17
Finance ort Furthermore John has Stepped up to deal with the Magazine Adverhsing revenue for this year. John, as my predecessor in this role, has a150 been of great support and guidance a5 a Mentor. To close thank you all for your giving but please keep the amount you contribute under review. If anyone would like to join the Parish Giving Scheme please come and talk to me. Graham Spearman Treasurer For a full report please See the published accounts. There are sorne important points to be reiterated in this report. Once again we did not pay our Parish Share in full. The amount paid was £41,000 down from £46,000 p8id12st year. U nfortunately, due to ill health as well as other changes the Magazine Advertising income was significantly reduced which together with a small reduction in planned giving our overall incorlle to General Funds was lower. The PCC remember that Parish Share is an entirely voluntary contribution. Unfortunately the Diocese are saying that if Parish Share is not met in years to come then the number of clergy will have to be reduced. Another major cost is maintenance of the Fabric. The Quinquennial roport for St Nicholas was undertaken last year and having obtained three quotes, we have instructed Lodge and Sons to undertake the work. When we redecorated St Bartholomew's we were able to reclaim the VAT. That scheme has now been withdrawn by the current Government so we are going to have to pay an additional 20% from the St Nicholas Fabric Fund. Luckily, that fund ha5 benefitted from a generous bequest 50 there are sufficient funds to pay the bill. l am pleased to report that both Restricted funds are in a relatively healthy state. St Bartholomew's fabric fund benefitted significantlv from the Gardens Festival and once again thank you to Stewart Adkins and his committee. l understand that the event will take place again in 2027 under the Chairmanship of Wendy Wallace. Once again I must express my thanks to John Balcer for his continuing work as Gift Aid Secretary which reduces my workload John's efforts have resulted in an additional £10,860. Worship The Service Planning Group consists of a small group of people who have continued to try and work together to take the lead in arranging the service schedule and content for the two churches in our parish, whilst the search for a new team vicar continues. They are,. Choir and Music lead forst Bartholomews Church- Graham Spearman. Morning Praise Lead - Lester Firkins Morning Praise Music Lead - Ben Southgate Acting Deputy Church Warden- Graham Wingrove Authorised Local Preachers - Barry Cousin5, Elizabeth Joslin, John Gi5bert and Christine Bealer Having only met twice during the last year the group have remained united in maintaining the usual consistent pattern of Eucharistic and non Eucharistic services18am and 10.30am at St Bartholomew's Church in Wickham Bishops and 9am on third Sundays at St Nicholas, Church in Little Braxted, previously offered before the interregnum started. 18 19
In order to accomplish this pattern, our 51ncere and grateful thanks go to Barry Cousins, wha continues to devote many hours looking for and chasing down priests to cover our Eucharistic seroices. Special thanks also goes to Rev Derek Clark, who has con5iStently found his way up to St Bartholomew's Church on several Sunday mornings each month, quietly joining us part way through the service to take the Celebrant role for our Eucharistic services. Without his 5UPPOrt, we would have found it very difficult indeed, if not entirely Impossible, to continue our usual pattern of servlces. Graham Spearman, has also, amongst his many other duttes, been tireless in acquirlng organist support- special thanks go to Richard Overill, Gillian Ward-Russell and Stuart Wilks for thelr ongoing support. The chan8es made earlier in the interregnum will continue, as we endeavour to make our Eucharistr'c services more welcoming and accessible to those who are immune-suppressed or otherwise medically vulnerable, or have mobility Issues and find navigating steps difficult. As we continue to bring God's word to the inhabitants of our villa8e, we are mindful to try and welcome the very youn8est newcomers into our church family and look forward very much to the future and/or the new challenges and changes that may bring. Chr15tlne Bealer Chalr- Worshlp Commlttee Choir As a reminder this is how l opened last year's report. "The purpose of the Choir is to lead the congregation Sn Worship. That may be either leading the hymns and Eucharist seth'ngs or performing a piece of muslc to lift the congre8ation," The Chair contrnued to provide leadershlp throughout the year and also sung an Anthem on Easter Sunday a5 well as providing a service of 9 Lessons and Carols at Christma5. This was, as ever, well supported by the villa8e with a congregation of about 120. Thls was only achieved with the help of visitin8 slngers to augment the regular cholr and visiting muslclans to play and conduct. Once agaln I must express our thanks to Steven Rumsey who took numerous practices, particularly for the Christmas and Easter music. I would also like to express my thanks to our visiting Organists, Stuart Wilks, Richard Overill, Gillian Ward-Russell, Jonathan Turner and Brian Fletcher who played for our 9 Lessons and Carols service. I should also say Thank you to Jayne Jennnings who plays at St Nicholas and from time to time at St Bartholomew's. The choir 15 affiliated to the Royal School of Church Music IRSCMI who have sadly disbanded area commlttees and so area event5. However, Emma Gibbins, Director of Music at Chelmsford Cathedral, organise a Diocesan Choral Evensong Festival which a few of u5 attended in 2025. This event is being repeated in May and a few of us will be attending again. I make no apology for repeating what I said last year. Sacred music at Parish level is sadly in decline and l am very pleased that at St Bartholomew's we have, so far, been able to maintain the 20 ?1
tradition which is a major part of our culture. There was a m05t enlightening article by the Precentor of Chester Cathedral on the importance of music in Worship in Parish Churches as well as Cathedrals. If anyone would like to read it please ask me for the article. It is an ongoing challenge to find musicians to play and singers to sing for our regular services a5 well as at major festivals. So, if any one would like to sing or play or knows people in the village who sing and or play please contact me. Graham Spearman - 07721505296 Thanks are due to the many and various 'stsnd-in priests, who preside at our seNices while the parish remains in Vacancy. We are extremely grateful to Jayne Jennings for playing the organ at both regular and special services. Many thanks Jaynel The church is always decked out with fresh flowers, and we must thank Elsie who continues to supply them despite moving to Great Totham and having to rely on taxis or lifts. Elsie and Donald also ensure a Poppy display for Remembrance time and have provided a wonderful array ofstrings of battery lights for the Patronal Festival, the mid-week Carol Service and Christmas Eve Midnight Mass. The church is clearly well known across the globe for its decoration and wall paintings and remains open most day5 of the week. It is evident frorn the Visitor Book that there is a continuous flow of 'pilgrims' from far and wide and especial thanks are due to Trudy aF)d Kit for daily unlocking and locking over so many years. As they move into their new home 'up-the-ro8d' we look forward to Beth and Daniel maintaining the family tradition as they move into the 'Hall' next door. St. Nicholas ST NICHOLAS, LITfLE BRAxfED in the parish of Widtham Bishops with Little Braxted. The Parish continues to maintain this ancient and spectacular church in both structure and for worship. The building is designated as a Chapel of Ease with a licence a5 a wedding venue. During this Interregnum or 'Vacancy , services of Holycommunion using the Prayer Book style of 1662 have been maintained, monthly and, as a 'Fe5tival Church, additional worship and praise has been offered at special times such as Good Friday, Easter Sunday, St Nicholas, Day and at Christmastr'de. For the regular monthly services congregation members come mainly from Gt Totham, some from Wickham Bishops with others from Chelmsford and Witham. It is noticeable that there are no, or hardly ever worshippers from the civic parish of Little Braxted although there may be one or two on the Electoral Roll. Barry Couslns 22
Pastoral Drop-in Sessions The committee supports the pastoral care in the church and local community. This includes visitin8 the sick, lonely and bereaved; Drop In sessions, Welcome Packs, Parish Ma8azine, Edward Bear, Services at Little Oaks and Home Communion. Drop In sessions are on the second Monday of each month and are free. The Parish magazine has details and a contact number. Drop In provides refreshments, friendship and a sympathetic ear if anyone wants to talk in confidence. The Christmas party In December is al- ways popular. There are seasonal snacks, Secret Santa presents, crackers, carols and lots more. Attendance In 2025 was between 9 and 21. There is a dedicated and Small hardworking team who have Safeguarding quallfications Two people lead the session each month. The helpers are Geraldine, Christine. Jayne, Kate, Kath, Maggie and Sue. Sue Clements The Parish magazine has continued to be delivered to every household during the year. We were delighted to welcome Helen and Louis as the new editor5 after Elaine stepped down in readiness for her move. We are so thankful to her for stepping in and taking the magazine forward. We are very grateful to the willing band of helpers who ensure the delivery of the magazine and are always lookin8 Out for new people to join the ranks. Welcome packs have also been delivered to newcomers to the village by our Welcome v151tors. We once again or8anised the delivery of cyclamen plants to the sick and bereaved at Harvest time and these were much appreciated. We also assisted with the plannlng of the Service at All Souls and provided ref reshments. We contr'nue to visit Little Oaks once a month for a short service with Holy Comrnunion and to chat with the residents. Christine, in her role a5 Pastoral Assistant, does a wonderful job in gUlarlY V15itin8 and taking Holy Communion to many in the parish as well as supporting the Edward Bear Club at their weekly meetings. We all, with member5 of our church family, try to lend 5UPPOrt where we can to the bereaved, the elderly and those not so wel5. Jayne Jennln85 Chalr- Pastoral Commlttee 24
COMMUNITY Bowls Club Foodbank the trussell trust Another good year for the St. Bart's Outreach Bowls Club. As members are becoming a little older, the lifting of the mat is often an issue and we are looking at ways to rectify this. The clLJb enables people to meet and socialise, whilst learning to play bowls. There is always a break for tea, cake and chatl All are welcome. Contact Cindy or Gillian if you would like to come along and give it a try. Hopefully we can strll continue in 2026. We continue to support the work of the Trussell Trust Foodbank with a permanent collectr'on box in St. Bartholomew's and also working in conjunction with the village One Stop Shop. The Manager and staff of One Stop are very supporknve, promoting the collections and providin8 additional items at Christmas and Easter frorll their Community Fund. We're very grateful to them. Once again there was 3 splendid Harvest Collection of food delivered to the church and shop by members of the congregation and the wider Parish, The children of Wickham Blshops Nursery made a special visit to the church with their Harvest gifts presented in pretlily hand painted paper bags. They took part in a special prayer and were told how some people needed extra help to provide food for their families. The food is delivered every month to the Trussell Trust Warehouse in Braintree from where it is distributed to the Witham area as well as Halstead and Braintree. People can collect food parcels at the Witham Methodist Church in 4 Guithavon Street. Vouchers are provided by GPS and Social Care providers. Cin(ty Baker Geraldine Spearman COMMUNITY 26 27
Womens Christian Fellowship Bible Study Groups The group has had another good yearwith varled speakers and activities. The membership has stayed around 30 with average attendance about 20. and we have had the pleasure of a few gentlemen at meetings which have interested them. Talks have included a local locksmith. Colchester Zoo and a speaker from The National Garden Scheme Added to this our annual Daffodil Walk at Oliver's Garden Centre, Summer Aftemoon tea and Christmas lunch. Refreshments are always seNed atthe end of the meetings leaving plenty of time for, tea, chat and plenty of company. Our meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month in the Church Hall at 2.30pm and are open to everyone. Denise Yelland Monday afternoon Our Monday afternoon Bible studies continue on the first and third Mondays ofthe month with an attendance of between 10 and 13 regulars. Our topics are varied and we are blessed with the range of conversations and knowledge that we have from those who come along, finishing with group prayer. Over the last year we have studied 'Journeying through Lent, from the New Daylight series of books by BRF; 'Resurrection' by Kristie Berglund,. 'Advent for Everyone, byTom Wright and now looking at'ln and Out of Cave5', a Lent study written by a Methodist Minister from Nassau in the Bahamas. Do come along and join us, we would love to see you. We start at 2pm. Gillian Wingrove and Maggie Drewett Tuesday evening The group meets twice a month and currently 10 people attend. All are welcome and anyone interested in attending should speak to Christine Bakerfor more details. We meet in a different home each time and take it in turns to facilitate the evening, although there is no requirement for anyone to offer to host or lead the group but would still like to attend. We focus on a book of the bible. IThis past year we have studied the Gospel of Mark and are currently studying Paul's Letter to the Romansl. We have very wide ranging discussions relevant to our Christian lives and current events to help us in our daily living. The group is very welcoming, relaxed, friendly and open to hear everyone's views and sharing of experiences of God's goodness and ourdaily walk with Him. Steve Carter Prayer group In November we started a player group, meeting on the first Saturday in the month at different churches across the Beacon grDUP, from 9.30am to 10am Icoffee/tea from 9am). This came out of one ofthe meeting5 that the PCC had with the otherchurches in our new Beacon group of churches, us, and St. Nicholas with the Parish churches in Little and Gt. Totham and Goldhanger. We pray for our communities whilst gettTng to know each other more. We have now launched our email prayer chain.. chLirchin¥vick-kiGmbislio s.orLul. This is for anyone who wants those on the prayer chain to prayer for them or their circurn5tance. An additt.on to the prayer request card5 that are in the church for folk to come in and complete. If you want to join the prayer chain then please let Maggie Drewett know via the email address above. ?•
Garden Festival & Concert In 2025 we were fairly acllve, coordinatr'ng a reasonable nLJmber of fund raising and Social events, as well as making a significant contribution to the extremely successful Garden Festival in June and supporting the Concert in September. Our three fund raisers were the Quiz in Februery1£5361, the Spring Coffee Morning in March laround £8321 and the Christmas Market in November (approximately £1,842). All were enjoyable, well 5UPPOrted occasions as well as fi'nancial successes. One of our purely social events wa5 the Harvest Festival Brlng and Share Lunch in October, which was a pleasant and reasonably well attended occasion with a plentiful and varied selection of food. Next was the decoration of the Christmas Tree by the uniformed groups at the beginnlng of December. This was a successful evening and better 5UPPOrted than the previous year. Our committee provided refreshments for the young people, which were very well received, as were the seasonal ones we provided after the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols later in the month. The Garden Festival, held on lune 8, 2025, was a wonderful celebration of communitv spirit and i@amwork. We welcomed 800 visitors and raised an impresslve £14,600 from the Festival itself and an additional £2559 from the associated concert held on September 20 and attended by 160 people across the two performances. At the heart of our success were rnore than 80 dedlcated voluriteers. Their tireless efforts whether sethng up gardens, runnlng stalls, guiding visitors, making and serving food and drinks, or or8anizing the Scarecrow Trail created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that truly set our festival apart. The camaraderie and joy shared by everyone involved was inspiring, and we are deeply grateful for each volunteer's contrSbution. This year, we introduced a taxi bus service and enjoyed a fantasdc potling demonstration by Perrywood Garden Centre, which brought fresh interest and new faces to the event. Our ever-popular Scarecrow Trail featured over 40 imaginative entrie5, deli8hting families and visitors in the run-up to the festival. The continued support from Sponsors, donors, and local residents much of it Secured before the event was crucial in ensuring both the festival's financial success and its inclusive, welcoming spirit. Under the leadership of incoming Chairperson, Wendy Wallace, a new committee will be formed, comprising some former committee All in all, a good yearl Our committee of eight couldn't achieve what it does without the support of others within the Church family and the wider community, for which we are most grateful. We hope we can count on that continuing throughout 2026 and that it will be an enjoyable and successful year. Kath Adkins Chalr- Fund Ralslng and Soclal Commlttee FPH YOURtsUPg• 30
embers and a few new faces. They will organise the next event in lune 2027. Edward Bear Club is built upon the core Christian values with emphasis on love, respect, and l<indness. Each session is based upon a key theme which is structured around the Christian and wider annual calendar of events,. whereby crali activity and book mirror5 this theme. For @xample, we have celebrated National Roald Dahl day making dream catchers and marvellous potions, Martin Luther King Day in learning to love and respect everyone, story of Nativity and recently learning about the Winter Olympics with our own races and medal presentation, The sessions are built around structure but also open play,. whereby the children thoroughly look forward to EoinE into the church to sing and find the hidden bears. Spending time in the church allows the children to ask questions about who God is, the furnishings, stained glass windows and lay-out of a church. During the Colder months we spend our time in the h811 extension, however when the weather warms, we move to the outside ar- ea where the children continue to learn, ex- plore, play, and value the Christian values. We remain thoroughly grateful to the church for their continuous sup- port for our annual 'Christmas' party and 'School Leavers, party. If you'd like tD join the team or share your suggestions, please contact Wendy Wallace at..I': continue to grow this wonderful tradition and make the 2027 Garden Festival even more Special I Stewart Adkins Chair of the Garden Festlval Commlttee12020-2025) Edward Bear Club is a welcoming, energetic, and thriving group that meets at the chL¢rch every Monday during term-time. Our club consists of children from birth to four years old, who attend with their special grown-up. The Club 15 run by Emma Turner, with help from Stella Scrivener and Christine Bealer providing the backbone of support and lead us in prayer each week. The group has grown in the last 9-months gaining new members and a Ilfeline to their 'special grown-up, for example who is new to the village, a first-time parent, an older carer providing childcare or just in need of a safe space for children to play and them to enjoy company of other5 around them. Emma Turner Edward Bear Lead 32
Guardians of the Village Churches Parish Contacts With the increaslng C05t of repairlng and maintalnlng our historlc churches, The Guardians of the Village Churches was established to address the challenge of ensurlng that these beautiful bulldings are preserved for the next generation - to secure their future as multi-use resources and returnlnB them to the heart of the communities they serve. Prlest In Charge Vacant Acting Vico- Grtihciim %pearmiL n Chairman and Treasurer 07721505296 Rev. fJerel( Clar1( -fhLI I_L.)LlS I=; Permission lo Offlclate 01245 380627 Regrettably, In the absence of an incumbent, the Guardians committee Is cuirently dormant. It Is hoped that when the time is right the commlttee will be reactivated and we will be happy to hear from anyone who wishes to be part of that group to share their ener8y and Ideas to start the ball rolllng once agaln I 07860 235778 CM.12JL Pastoral Asslstsnt 07958 263128 General Enqulrles Churchwarden5 Vacaiil. Graham Spearman .Iii)iJ5.nr14.Iili o/fJ44 973705 PCC Secretary 07870 166008 gspotirmtinprrQOKmcill.r.om Church Hall Booklngs 01621891143 fr kaLI Iryiiddl(Iii.%li /CI!IF,miil1,com Drop In Sue Clomont 01621892032 Guardians Prayer Chaln pray(Ir@cliiirEhliiwlcl<hamblsliops. or8.lik On-une WorshSp Vla l-aCLbook Churches open Dcilly f'rom 9.30am lo 4pm Church web51te www.churchinwlckhambishops.org.uk Parish Magazlne ma azine bisho churchinwickham s.or 34
Wickham Bishops & Little Braxted PCC Registered Charity 1159874
End of Year Financial Statements
Year ending 31[st] December 2025
1
WICKHAM BISHOPS AND LIThLE BRAXTED PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts ofthe above charity {he Trusf) for the year ended 31 Defflber 2025 which are set out on pages 4t09. Responsibilities and basis of rep(xt As the charity trustees of Trust, yw a responsib for the weparation of the accounts in accordan wrth tkE requirements of the Charities Act 2011 {he Ad"). I report in resped of my examination of tTrE Trust's accounts carried OLrt under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carying OLrt my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Chanty Commission urKler section 145{5}(b) of the Act_ Independent examinerfs statement I have completed my examination. I confim that no material matters have ome to my attention in connection with examination which grves me ause to believe that in, any material respecl.. accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or the accounts do not accord with the accounting records or the accounts do not comply with the appliGable requirements conceming the fonn arKI content of accounts set out in Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 otP*r than any requirement that accounts give a Irue and fair view which ts not a matter onsidered as part of an irvjependent examinati. no cOnmS arKI have come across no other matters in connection with xamination lo which attention should be drawn in order to enable r understanding of the accounts to te reached. John Bar Independent Examiner 30 COOM Rise Chelmsford Essex CM17DG 13 April 2026
Treasurer’s Report
In respect of our General Funds, notated as Unrestricted funds, which cover day to day running costs we have experienced a downturn to our financial position. The Diocese continue to request what I consider to be an excessive sum by way of Parish Share particularly when we compare our figure against similar parishes. In 2024 we paid £46,000 to the Diocese in respect of Parish Share against a request for £53,208. This resulted in a reduction to our General Fund of some £9,300. For 2025 we were asked for a contribution of £53,476. The PCC has continued with our agreement to withhold any payment of Parish until the financial year end when we could ascertain what we could afford. Unfortunately, we have seen a reduction to the Planned Giving Scheme together with lower amounts in collections and donations. Furthermore, there was a delay in collecting fees for advertising in the Parish Magazine although this has been energetically rectified by John Baker to whom I am so very grateful. At the PCC meeting in January 2026, it was agreed that a payment of £41,000 be made. So, at the financial year end General Funds were reduced to £42,102 down from ££50,308. Hopefully this will be largely rectified by the 2026-year end as we should see £14,000 advertising revenue included in this year’s income. As Trustees of our own Charity, we are expected to make responsible financial decisions and hold sufficient funds to cover 6 months of expenditure. With annual expenditure approaching £90,000 I am anxious to maintain a reserve of £45,000 to £50,000.
Turning to Restricted funds both fabric funds are in a relatively healthy state. St Bartholomew's fabric fund benefitted significantly from the Gardens Festival and once again thank you to Stewart Adkins and his committee. The St Nicholas Fabric fund is in a healthy position and hopefully we will be able to undertake most of the work required in the quinquennial report.
The scheme for repayment of VAT has been running since 2001. Unfortunately, this scheme is ending at 31[st] March 2026. Whilst a new scheme is being launched which includes churches it is being suggested that we will have to cover VAT on any future works. This is obviously going to be a significant burden as we will have to raise 20% more than we did previously.
While saying thank you, a particular thanks to John Baker for his continuing work as Gift Aid Secretary. John’s efforts have resulted in an additional £10,860 of income. John, as my predecessor in this role, has also been of great support and guidance as a Mentor.
To close thank you all for your giving but please keep the amount you contribute under review. If anyone would like to join the Parish Giving Scheme please come and talk to me.
Graham Spearman 26/01/2026
Statement of Financial Activities
3
| Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total funds Prior year total funds |
|
|---|---|
| Planned giving Collections and other giving Other voluntary receipts Gift Aid recovered Other receipts Youth Club Receipts from church activities Total income Missionary and Charitable Giving Parish Share Clergy and Staffing costs Church Running Expenses Youth Club Hall Running Costs Church Repairs & Maintenance Hall Repairs & Maintenance New Building work Total expenditure Net income / (expenditure) resources before transfer Gross transfers between funds - in Gross transfers between funds - out Gains/losses on investment assets Gains on revaluation, fixed assets, charity's own use Net movement in funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward |
£32,316.89 - £32,316.89 £36,554.84 £1,601.50 - £1,601.50 £3,303.26 £4,393.32 £62.31 £4,455.63 £43,280.90 £10,859.90 - £10,859.90 £23,974.60 £4,814.50 £2,022.46 £6,836.96 £5,981.92 - - - - £12,537.80 £19,162.77 £31,700.57 £14,480.38 |
| £66,523.91 £21,247.54 £87,771.45 £127,575.90 £651.50 £267.50 £919.00 £1,729.88 £41,000.00 - £41,000.00 £46,000.00 £4,028.59 - £4,028.59 £3,558.16 £27,908.04 £2,468.31 £30,376.35 £27,494.82 - - - - £1,981.54 - £1,981.54 £1,916.91 £279.00 £5,761.32 £6,040.32 £100,714.66 - - - - - - - - |
|
| £75,848.67 £8,497.13 £84,345.80 £181,414.43 |
|
(£9,324.76) £12,750.41 £3,425.65 (£53,838.53) £190,956.63 £221,092.12 £412,048.75 £36,816.97 (£181,854.74 ) (£230,194.01 ) (£412,048.75 ) (£36,816.97) (£7,882.84) £7,882.84 - £7,882.84 - - - - |
|
| (£8,105.71) £11,531.36 £3,425.65 (£45,955.69) |
|
| £50,307.64 £44,913.75 £95,221.39 £141,177.08 |
|
| £42,201.93 £56,445.11 £98,647.04 £95,221.39 |
General fund
- £42,201.93 £42,201.93 £42,424.80
4
| Guardians Restricted Funds | - | - | - | - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ukranian Refugee Fund Cash In Hand | - | - | - | |
| Wickham Bishops Deposit CB3022304 | - | - | - | - |
| Bowls Club Restricted Funds | - | £843.14 | £843.14 | £843.14 |
| Guardians Restricted Funds | - | £14,710.46 | £14,710.46 | - |
| Guardians Restricted Funds Cash In Hand |
- | £19.80 | £19.80 | £9,221.20 |
| Little Braxted Fabric Fund CB3022306 | - | £36,139.94 | £36,139.94 | £36,018.96 |
| Ukrainian Refugees Restricted Fund | - | £245.36 | £245.36 | £506.48 |
| Ukranian Refugee Fund Cash In Hand | - | £0.94 | £0.94 | - |
| Wickham Bishops Fabric Fund CB3022305 |
- | £4,485.47 | £4,485.47 | £6,206.81 |
| Total funds | £42,201.93 | £56,445.11 | £98,647.04 | £95,221.39 |
Balance Sheet detailed
| Class and code Description |
As at 31/12/2025 As at 31/12/2024 |
|---|---|
| Current assets 6501 Co-op Bank current account 6502 CAF Cash Account 00022245 6503 CAF Gold Ukranian Refugees 6504 CAF Gold Guardians 6505 CCLA deposit account608143001D 6506 Co-op Bank Ukranian Refugee Fund 6510 CCLA deposit account Church Restoration 6515 CCLA deposit St Nicholas Fabric 6590 Cash in hand 6591 Cash in Hand Guardians Total Current assets Liabilities 6601 Loans received Z04 Accounts Payable |
£1,944.17 - £36.88 £11,753.05 £0.94 £506.48 £14,710.46 £9,221.20 £41,041.38 £39,264.44 £245.36 - £4,485.47 £6,206.81 £36,139.94 £36,018.96 £22.64 £133.29 £19.80 - |
| £98,647.04 £103,104.23 - - - £7,882.84 |
5
| Total Liabilities Net Asset surplus (deficit) Reserves Excess/(deficit) to date Z01 Starting balances Z02 Gains/(losses) on reval of fixed assets Total Reserves Represented by Funds General (Unrestricted) Designated Restricted Total |
- £7,882.84 |
|---|---|
| £98,647.04 £95,221.39 |
|
| £3,425.65 £28,327.96 £95,221.39 £59,010.59 - £7,882.84 |
|
| £98,647.04 £95,221.39 £42,201.93 £50,307.64 - - £56,445.11 £44,913.75 |
|
| £98,647.04 £95,221.39 |
6
Analysis of income and expenditure
Total
| Unrestricted Restricted This year Last year |
|
|---|---|
| RECEIPTS Planned giving 0110 - Envelopes - - - £90.00 0201 - planned giving £32,316.89 - £32,316.89 £36,464.84 Planned giving Totals £32,316.89 - £32,316.89 £36,554.84 Collections and other giving 0301 - collections £1,586.50 - £1,586.50 £3,188.26 0501 - Gift Aid Envelopes £15.00 - £15.00 £115.00 Collections and other giving Totals £1,601.50 - £1,601.50 £3,303.26 Other voluntary receipts 0302 - Charity Collections £616.90 - £616.90 £641.88 0550 - Other Giving £360.00 - £360.00 £360.00 0551 - Donations £3,353.42 - £3,353.42 £3,971.25 0553 - Flower Fund £63.00 - £63.00 - 0554 - Music Fund - - - £81.50 0701 - Legacies/Grants - - - £38,105.11 1000 - Friends of Little Braxted - - - £66.16 1001 - Guardians - £62.31 £62.31 £55.00 Other voluntary receipts Totals £4,393.32 £62.31 £4,455.63 £43,280.90 Gift Aid recovered 0601 - Tax recoverable on Gift Aid £10,515.24 - £10,515.24 £9,876.60 0602 - Tax Refund - Church Restoration Fund WB £344.66 - £344.66 £14,098.00 Gift Aid recovered Totals £10,859.90 - £10,859.90 £23,974.60 |
- - - £90.00 £32,316.89 - £32,316.89 £36,464.84 |
7
| Other receipts | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0901 - Other funds generated | £351.56 | - | £351.56 | £100.00 |
| 0914 - Trading Income | £98.06 | - | £98.06 | £22.30 |
| 1020 - Interest - General Fund | £1,838.13 | - | £1,838.13 | £2,061.31 |
| 1021 - Interest WB Church Restoration Fund |
- | £226.95 | £226.95 | £1,420.04 |
| 1022 - Interest LB Fabric Fund | - | £1,621.02 | £1,621.02 | £1,103.52 |
| 1024 - Interest Ukranian Refugee Fund |
- | £7.32 | £7.32 | £22.06 |
| 1025 - Interest on Guardians Account |
- | £167.17 | £167.17 | £275.50 |
| 1500 - In/Out | £2,526.75 | - | £2,526.75 | £977.19 |
| Other receipts Totals | £4,814.50 | £2,022.46 | £6,836.96 | £5,981.92 |
| Receipts from church activities | ||||
| 0909 - Fund Raising - Open Gardens Flower Festival |
- | £19,162.77 | £19,162.77 | - |
| 0910 - Fund Raising | £3,054.02 | - | £3,054.02 | £4,227.06 |
| 1100 - Fees to Diocese | £1,206.34 | - | £1,206.34 | £428.66 |
| 1101 - Parochial Fees for weddings and funerals |
£3,244.00 | - | £3,244.00 | £1,699.02 |
| 1103 - Memorial Book Income | £60.00 | - | £60.00 | £10.00 |
| 1210 - Greeting Cards sales | £70.60 | - | £70.60 | £68.15 |
| 1240 - Church hall lettings | £3,763.25 | - | £3,763.25 | £4,082.50 |
| 1241 - Tea/Coffee | £309.59 | - | £309.59 | £260.69 |
| 1250 - Magazine income - advertising |
£830.00 | - | £830.00 | £3,675.00 |
| 1337 - Drop In Donations | - | - | - | £29.30 |
| Receipts from church activities Totals |
£12,537.80 | £19,162.77 | £31,700.57 | £14,480.38 |
| Receipts Grand totals | £66,523.91 | £21,247.54 | £87,771.45 | £127,575.90 |
8
PAYMENTS
Missionary and Charitable Giving
| 1801 - Charity Donations | £651.50 | - | £651.50 | £785.88 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2336 - Ukranian Refugee Expenditure |
- | £267.50 | £267.50 | £944.00 |
| Missionary and Charitable Giving Totals |
£651.50 | £267.50 | £919.00 | £1,729.88 |
| Parish Share | ||||
| 1901 - Parish Share | £41,000.00 | - | £41,000.00 | £46,000.00 |
| Parish Share Totals | £41,000.00 | - | £41,000.00 | £46,000.00 |
| Clergy and Staffing costs | ||||
| 1104 - Fees to Diocese | £1,212.00 | - | £1,212.00 | £428.00 |
| 2001 - Other Clergy Expenses | £361.59 | - | £361.59 | £496.63 |
| 2050 - Wages Honoraria & Support |
£2,455.00 | - | £2,455.00 | £2,480.00 |
| 2130 - Rectory expenses | - | - | - | £153.53 |
| Clergy and Staffing costs Totals | £4,028.59 | - | £4,028.59 | £3,558.16 |
| Church Running Expenses | ||||
| 1730 - Costs of Fundraising | - | - | - | £163.10 |
| 1733 - Costs of Fundraising- Open Gardens |
- | £1,184.28 | £1,184.28 | - |
| 2301 - Insurance - Wickham Bishops |
£2,662.84 | - | £2,662.84 | £2,572.27 |
| 2302 - Insurance - Little Braxted | £1,273.69 | - | £1,273.69 | £1,208.84 |
| 2330 - Church maintenance WB | £2,717.63 | £310.00 | £3,027.63 | £4,701.70 |
| 2331 - Church Maintenance - LB | £169.78 | £620.04 | £789.82 | £276.78 |
| 2337 - Pastoral Care | £150.43 | - | £150.43 | £169.88 |
| 2339 - Children & Youth Work | £485.12 | - | £485.12 | £194.00 |
| 2340 - General Costs | £1,815.33 | - | £1,815.33 | £2,227.26 |
| 2341 - Flowers for Church | £692.16 | - | £692.16 | £239.04 |
| 2343 - Music Fund | - | - | - | £108.94 |
| 2350 - Upkeep of churchyard WB | £884.04 | £353.99 | £1,238.03 | £1,750.35 |
| 2351 - Upkeep of Churchyard LB | £680.00 | - | £680.00 | £510.00 |
| 2360 - Administration | £859.45 | - | £859.45 | £639.46 |
| 2401 - Church running - Utilities WB |
£6,254.53 | - | £6,254.53 | £6,300.44 |
9
| 2410 - Church running - Utilities LB |
£286.85 | - | £286.85 | £535.30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2501 - Magazine expenses | £5,940.00 | - | £5,940.00 | £4,864.93 |
| 2510 - Greetings Cards costs | £135.60 | - | £135.60 | £47.20 |
| 2521 - Tea/Coffee Costs | £192.54 | - | £192.54 | £256.33 |
| 2601 - Governance costs examination/audit fee |
£120.00 | - | £120.00 | £120.00 |
| 4000 - In/Out | £2,588.05 | - | £2,588.05 | £609.00 |
| Church Running Expenses Totals |
£27,908.04 | £2,468.31 | £30,376.35 | £27,494.82 |
| Hall Running Costs | ||||
| 2520 - Hall running costs | £1,981.54 | - | £1,981.54 | £1,916.91 |
| Hall Running Costs Totals | £1,981.54 | - | £1,981.54 | £1,916.91 |
| Church Repairs & Maintenance | ||||
| 2701 - Church major repairs - structure |
- | £3,478.03 | £3,478.03 | £2,020.80 |
| 2702 - Church Major Repairs - Structure St Nich |
- | £200.00 | £200.00 | £2,816.28 |
| 2703 - Guardians Costs | - | - | - | £9.59 |
| 2710 - Church major repairs - installation |
- | - | - | £1,852.80 |
| 2711 - Capital Expenditure | £279.00 | - | £279.00 | £499.00 |
| 2720 - Church interior and exterior decorating |
- | £2,083.29 | £2,083.29 | £93,516.19 |
| Church Repairs & Maintenance Totals |
£279.00 | £5,761.32 | £6,040.32 | £100,714.66 |
| Payments Grand totals | £75,848.67 | £8,497.13 | £84,345.80 | £181,414.43 |
WICKHAM BISHOPS & LITTLE BRAXTED P.C.C. ASSETS
10
ASSETS
General Fund :
CAF Bank: £ 36.88 Co-Op Bank: £ 1.101.03 CCLA: £41,041.38 Petty Cash: £ 22.64 Total: £42,201.93
| Restricted Funds | |
|---|---|
| Bowls Club Restricted Fund (held in General Funds) | £ 843.14 |
| Guardians Restricted Funds | £14,730.26 |
| Ukrainian Refugees Restricted Fund | £ 246.30 |
| Wickham Bishops Church Restoration | £ 4,485.47 |
| Little Braxted Fabric Fund | £36,139.94 |
| Total: | £56,445.11 |
Bookstall Stock: £ 600
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Church Hall £500,000 Step Ladder £ 109
Tables & Chairs £ 3,000 Lawnmowers £ 2,000
Kitchen Equipment - Storage £ 1,500 Strimmer £ 150
boxes, Urn, Cutlery, Microwave
etc
Crockery & Glasses £ 500 Hedge Trimmer £ 150
Vacuum Cleeaners £ 200 Shed X 2 £ 1,500
Video, Sound System, Heaters £ 1,600 Piano X 2 £ 2,700
Choir Robes £ 1,500 Projector £ 430
Dishwasher £ 1,500 Floristry equipment £ 2,000
Mevo Camera £ 350 Photocopier £ 2,500
WiFi Router & booster £ 120
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WICKHAM BISHOPS AND LIThLE BRAXTED PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts ofthe above charity {he Trusf) for the year ended 31 Defflber 2025 which are set out on pages 4t09. Responsibilities and basis of rep(xt As the charity trustees of Trust, yw a responsib for the weparation of the accounts in accordan wrth tkE requirements of the Charities Act 2011 {he Ad"). I report in resped of my examination of tTrE Trust's accounts carried OLrt under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carying OLrt my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Chanty Commission urKler section 145{5}(b) of the Act_ Independent examinerfs statement I have completed my examination. I confim that no material matters have ome to my attention in connection with examination which grves me ause to believe that in, any material respecl.. accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or the accounts do not accord with the accounting records or the accounts do not comply with the appliGable requirements conceming the fonn arKI content of accounts set out in Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 otP*r than any requirement that accounts give a Irue and fair view which ts not a matter onsidered as part of an irvjependent examinati. no cOnmS arKI have come across no other matters in connection with xamination lo which attention should be drawn in order to enable r understanding of the accounts to te reached. John Bar Independent Examiner 30 COOM Rise Chelmsford Essex CM17DG 13 April 2026