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2026-02-28-accounts

Company Registration Number 10599285 Registered Charity Number 1180001

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

REPORT AND ACCOUNTS For the year ending 28 February 2026

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT For the year ended 28 February 2026

The Trustees, who are also Directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 28 February 2026.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered charity name Fertile Ground Dance Limited Charity registration number 1180001 Company registration number 10599285 Registered office 2nd Floor, Dance City, Temple Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4BR

Trustees

For the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, the Board of Trustees is the Board of Directors of the charitable company and is referred to as “the Trustees” throughout this report.

The Trustees of Fertile Ground Dance Limited during the year and to the date of signing this report are as follows:

Niamh Cunningham Resigned 11 March 2026 Camille De Groote Resigned 23 June 2025 Jennifer Gabbitus Elizabeth Highmore Resigned 11 March 2026 Pagan Hunt Appointed 20 April 2026 Sue Hurrell Ann Schofield Resigned 23 June 2025 Lisa-Marie Tonelli Resigned 23 June 2025 Bankers Barclays Bank plc, 49-51 Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7AF Independent Examiner Pete O’Hara FCA, Chartered Accountant, 26 La Sagesse, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 3AF

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing Documents

The Company is a Company Limited by Guarantee and was incorporated on 3 February 2017 and registered with the Charity Commission on 20 September 2018.

The charitable company is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association, as registered with Companies House on 3 February 2017 and as amended by special resolution registered at Companies House on 25 June 2018. The Directors of the company are also Trustees of the charity.

Eligibility for membership of the charity and membership of the Board of Trustees is governed by the Memorandum and Articles of Association. There are no restrictions in the governing document on the operation of the charity other than those imposed by general charity law.

Governance

Fertile Ground (FG) currently has three Trustees.

The charity regularly reviews the Board’s skillset in order to strengthen its governance, approaching individuals and advertising the opportunity through the company website and social media channels (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram), alongside voluntary sector, business, and arts and culture channels when skills gaps are identified.

Current Board members bring a broad range of expertise in choreography and performance, dance education, inclusive practice, producing, project management, strategic development, and stakeholder engagement. Their collective experience spans work with young people, disabled artists, and professional performers, and includes a former Fertile Ground alumnus, bringing valuable insight into the organisation's artistic journey and impact.

A new Trustee with senior leadership experience in the further education sector is due to join the Board shortly, further strengthening its breadth of expertise. Together, the Board provides a strong and diverse skill set to support the charity's governance and strategic development. The Board continues to review its composition regularly and is committed to recruiting new members where additional skills or perspectives would strengthen the organisation.

The Board meets a minimum of four times per year and conducts an AGM. The quorum is at least three Trustees and meetings may be held in person or remotely via video call.

At Trustees’ meetings, held at least quarterly, the Trustees agree on the broad strategy and areas of activity for the charity, including but not limited to the consideration of artistic activity and engagement, projects, fundraising, governance, reserves, risk management, policies, performance, and business planning.

Detailed written reports and an agenda are prepared by senior staff and these are circulated in advance of Board meetings in accordance with the notice periods defined in the charity’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

Appointment and Induction of Trustees

The appointment of Trustees is carried out at regular Trustee meetings and is by unanimous agreement of the existing Trustees. Trustees are appointed for a three-year term and are eligible for re-election at the end of that term.

The Memorandum and Articles of Association determine that the Board is made up of no less than three Trustee Directors.

Trustees are nominated by invitation given that they have the necessary skills and expertise to contribute to the charity’s activities and to be able to discharge their obligations as Trustees. The skills and composition of the Board is reviewed on a regular basis, taking into consideration succession planning, representation and experience, empathy and knowledge of the charity.

Management and Organisational Structure

Day-to-day management is delegated to Artistic Director Renaud Wiser, who is responsible for most of the key activities of the charity including the content of the artistic and engagement programme, recruiting and appointing FG artistic and administrative freelance staff, tour booking, working with fundraising consultants and learning and participation manager and, jointly with the Finance Manager, for regulatory compliance.

Across the year, fundraising activities have been supported by Sam Hobrough, a freelance arts sector fundraising consultant who works predominantly in the North East with a range of arts and charity organisations. Since December 2024, engagement activities have been supported by freelance learning and participation manager consultant Giulia Cotti Zelati, who is a Fertile Ground Alumni with good experience in the dance engagement sector.

Key Management Personnel

The Trustees consider the Board of Trustees and the Artistic Director as comprising the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and controlling the charity and running and operating the charity on a day-to-day basis.

All Trustees give their time freely. No Trustee remuneration was paid in the year. Details of Trustee expenses and related party transactions are disclosed in the Notes to the Financial Statements.

Trustees are required to disclose all relevant interests and register them with the Chair, and in accordance with the charity’s Conflict of Interests policy, withdraw from decisions where any such conflict of interest arises.

Grant-making

The charity does not currently engage in grant-making activity.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

Policies on Reserves

The Trustees have reviewed the charity's needs for reserves in line with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission.

The Trustees aim to hold a level of Unrestricted Reserves which enables the charity to have sufficient financial resources to meet various liabilities which would crystallise if FG Dance Limited were unable to continue operating, together with an allowance to enable the charity to respond flexibly to issues or appropriate initiatives which might be identified outside of its annual budgeting process.

At present, the Trustees estimate that the Unrestricted Reserves required to cover all known liabilities amount to approximately £2,500. In addition, the Trustees consider that a contingency of at least £10,000 is prudent, resulting in an optimum level of Unrestricted Reserves in the region of £12,500.

Fertile Ground Dance Limited currently holds Unrestricted Reserves of £27,170 at 28 February 2026 (2025: £20,641). Free reserves, defined as non-designated Unrestricted Reserves, minus the value of Tangible Fixed Assets, are £27,170 (2025: £20,641) which provides a small additional level of contingency.

The Trustees believe that Unrestricted Reserves should, wherever possible, be maintained at least at this level to ensure the charity can run efficiently and meet the needs of the beneficiaries. FG will continue to use reserves, where necessary, to support the annual programme, but the objective is to achieve 100% funding for each programme.

This policy will be reviewed by the Trustees on an annual basis as part of the charity’s budgeting processes.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Fertile Ground Dance Limited aims to advance the arts for the public benefit by the promotion, in particular, but not exclusively, of the art of dance.

Fertile Ground (FG) is the North East’s only contemporary touring dance company which specialises in creating opportunities for young professional dancers to develop their early careers.

FG offers performances and workshops across the North East region and beyond, showcasing great talent performing in theatres, galleries and outdoor spaces.

The vision that shapes our annual activities remains working with emerging dance artists, creating and touring contemporary dance across the North East and removing barriers for children and young people to access high quality contemporary dance.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)

Aims & Objectives

Our organisational objectives remain to:

Public Benefit

The Trustees understand and have discussed the implications of the provisions of the Charities Act 2006, which state that all charities must demonstrate that they are established for public benefit, and have had due regard to the public benefit guidance issued by the Charity Commission. The Trustees believe that the charity meets both of the key principles.

Principle 1 - There must be an identifiable benefit, or benefits Principle 2 - Benefit must be to the public, or a section of the public

The charity’s principal public benefits are:

The main beneficiaries are:

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)

Impact and Value

FG remains dedicated to creating a lasting impact and providing significant value through its focus on talent development and the empowerment of young dancers in the North East.

For each artistic programme, we make it a priority to select a minimum of four promising emerging young dancers who have strong connections to our region, either through their birthplace, training, or current residency. These talented individuals are given a remarkable opportunity to join our company as members for a 12 to 18 months intensive program. Throughout this transformative experience, they collaborate closely with experienced and acclaimed dance artists, honing their skills.

Our young dancers not only gain invaluable artistic growth, but they also have the chance to showcase their talent on a regional or national tour, bringing their innovative performances to audiences across the country. Moreover, they actively contribute to our educational initiatives by assisting in the delivery of workshops and educational programs. As believers in the value of ethical employment practices, we ensure that our dancers receive professional fees.

In our ongoing efforts to break down barriers and make high-quality dance accessible to all, we offer a range of free educational activities in local schools, community centres, and in collaboration with our partners. These initiatives aim to eliminate obstacles that may prevent young people from accessing the transformative power of dance. By engaging directly with professional dancers, our programs inspire young individuals, promote their overall well-being, and nurture their creativity.

Recognising the challenges that newly trained dancers aged 18-25 often face when trying to establish themselves in the industry, we have established the '360 professional development program.' This unique initiative is specifically designed to provide support to young dancers including those who may struggle to secure their first professional job due to a variety of socio-economic factors. By offering comprehensive assistance and mentorship, we equip these individuals with the resilience and essential skills needed to navigate the early stages of their careers successfully.

Through our unwavering commitment to talent development and the provision of inclusive opportunities, we create a profound impact on the lives of young dancers in our community. By investing in their growth, we not only foster the next generation of exceptional dancers but also contribute to their personal and professional development, ultimately enriching the cultural landscape of the North East.

The work of FG is rooted in its artistic programme. The Artistic Director collaborates with diverse international guests each year to curate a fresh repertoire, delving into various cross-genre art forms such as film, theatre, digital media, and live music. These guest artists actively participate in our engagement initiatives, infusing their specialised expertise into workshops and school residencies.

Our ultimate goal is to produce exceptionally high-quality work that is both captivating and unpredictable. We aspire to present dance that pioneers unexplored territories, captivating audiences through a multitude of formats and venues, and challenging their preconceptions of contemporary dance.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)

Testimonials

"It was a joy to work intensively throughout the whole process amongst wonderfully generous and inspiring artists. Exploring the different dynamic states was very interesting and has definitely influenced my practice from here on." FG company member 2025/26

"Dance activities have personally been vital in my recovery from the trauma of a bereavement. The supportive and non-judgemental ethos means I am free to express myself. It has given me the confidence to do things I didn't think I was capable of doing such as performing. It has given me essential social contact and the opportunity to develop new friendships." Over 50 participant 2025

"I adore working in the North East. I feel so strongly about representing the North and contributing back to my home. More opportunities like this are key for keeping artists up North and working" FG company member 2025/26

"Thank you for giving me the opportunity to take part in the performance and all the sessions that led up to it. I loved every minute and feel very privileged to have been a part of it." Participant of The Harvest engagement programme 2025

Wider Operating Context

In 2025, the UK dance and wider performing arts sector continued to operate within a challenging and uncertain environment. Financial pressures remained significant, with many organisations still managing the long-term effects of reduced public funding, inflation, and rising operational costs. Freelance artists and small-scale independent companies continued to face instability, with limited project funding and increasing competition for opportunities.

Audience behaviour showed signs of gradual recovery, though attendance patterns remained inconsistent across the sector. While large-scale commercial productions generally sustained stronger ticket sales, contemporary and experimental dance organisations continued to work hard to rebuild and diversify audiences. There was growing interest in participatory, community-based, and socially relevant work, particularly projects that prioritised accessibility, local engagement, and underrepresented voices.

At the same time, the sector increasingly focused on environmental sustainability, equitable working practices, and artist wellbeing. Organisations were expected to balance ambitious artistic programmes with responsible and resilient business models, often with limited resources. Partnerships, co-creation models, and cross-sector collaborations became increasingly important as companies sought new ways to share costs, expand reach, and strengthen impact.

In this evolving context, Fertile Ground continued to deliver artistic and engagement activity, developing local partnerships, creating new work, and investing in future sustainability. Through a combination of creative programming, community engagement, and strategic planning, the organisation remained committed to supporting artists and connecting with audiences in meaningful and accessible ways.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)

Risk Management

The Trustees regularly review the major governance, operational, and financial risks facing the charity as part of the annual business planning process and are satisfied that appropriate systems and procedures are in place to mitigate these risks where possible.

The charity’s risk management strategy includes:

The Trustees are satisfied that appropriate financial controls, governance procedures, and employment policies are in place and are regularly reviewed.

The key risks currently facing the charity are considered to be:

Financial sustainability – The organisation continues to operate within a challenging funding environment across the arts and cultural sector. While the charity has maintained a stable programme of artistic and engagement activity, there remains a need to maintain existing income streams and seek growth in revenue in order to support long-term organisational resilience and future activity.

Increased competition for funding – Demand for public and charitable funding continues to exceed available resources, resulting in highly competitive application processes and reduced success rates across many funding programmes.

Capacity and resource pressures – As a small organisation operating with a lean staffing model, there is an ongoing risk of pressure on organisational capacity, particularly in relation to fundraising, project delivery, and strategic development activity.

The Trustees have sought to mitigate these risks by ensuring that:

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT For the year ended 28 February 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE YEAR

Artistic Achievements

For the 2025–2026 season, Fertile Ground took a new direction, developing for the first time a yearlong programme built around a takeover of Dance City in Newcastle on 7 September 2025. The rationale behind this project, titled The Harvest, was to channel our activities into a culminating day of events that would bring together young people, professionals, current members and alumni of the company, community groups, and the general public in a shared celebration of dance.

Engagement

Throughout the year - in the build-up of the event, during the festival and via a legacy programme with schools - we delivered a total of 92 sessions of activities.

Our sessions were aimed for children aged 6 to 18, young dancers in training or in search of employment aged 18 to 25, young emerging artists, older adults and young people with learning disabilities. Throughout our engagement activities, we reached 525 CYP and 99 adults and older adults in person and 400 people via online activities. 41 of our sessions took place in Newcastle, 7 in Alnwick, 35 in Gateshead, 6 in Sunderland and 3 outside the North East. The sessions offered a range of activities including dance classes, professional development training sessions, performances and performance opportunities, creative sessions, meet the artists sessions and panel discussions.

Stage Performance

As part of The Harvest, Fertile Ground presented a new live artistic programme comprising a world premiere by Artistic Director Renaud Wiser alongside performances by guest artists and Fertile Ground alumni Lila Naruse (in collaboration with Rosie Macari), and Pelican Theatre (Pagan Hunt and Ellie Throw).

The pieces part of the programme were:

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT For the year ended 28 February 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE YEAR (CONTINUED)

The works were performed on the Dance City stage on Sunday September 7.

Emerging Artists Professional Development

During the year, Fertile Ground auditioned and employed a new cohort of 4 young professional dancers to create our new performance programme. While working with the company, the young artists furthered their professional development through intensive daily training, the creation of a new dance work and the opportunity to perform it live to an audience during the Dance City takeover.

In parallel, three of our 360 professional development programme participants started their placement with the company. The programme includes taking part in company class, watching rehearsals and performances, getting a first-hand knowledge of a professional creative process and supporting the company during the Harvest.

Our impact

Our project involved local cultural & educational organisations as additional partners with strong track records developing the cultural offer in NE, experience in engaging with audiences & knowledge of local communities. They took an active part in supporting the design of the festival and in informing the type of activities we offered to our audiences by participating in planning discussions, sharing their perspective & local knowledge on planned activities. Most are long term partners involved to develop with us programmes to support mental & physical wellbeing, facilitate the transition from education to a career in dance & provide wide access to dance activities. Our collaboration with these partners participate in our ambition to offer a range of opportunities to engage with dance at different ages in a person's life. They include Dance City, Meta4 Dance Company, Gateway Studio, Liberdade, Newcastle College, Sunderland College, Benfield School, Heworth Grange School and The Place.

We engaged participants across the following locations:

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE YEAR (CONTINUED)

Our measurement approaches to assess the impact of our activities include feedback forms shared with all artists and participants in our engagement activities as well as direct feedback gathered from our partners in schools, colleges and partner organisations.

Our evaluation from our recent activities as well, as from previous years of evidence gathering, points that the main impact our activities have on the groups we engage with are:

For emerging artists:

Over the years we have contributed to over 25 local dance artists starting their career in dance in the North East. Over 80% of them have stayed or maintained activities in the region following their engagement with Fertile Ground.

For open classes, workshops & community participants:

“ By fully engaging mind and body you can block out and reduce anxieties. Dancing in a group provides opportunities for sharing and social interaction and give a sense of belonging ." Intergenerational project participant 2025

" Joints and muscles always feel better after dance sessions. It is easy to adapt dance to make it accessible to a range of ages and abilities. Participants can often adapt movements themselves so it is a very inclusive activity. Anything that keeps me moving is good ." Over 50 participant 2025

For children participants:

" Dance can help you get over kind of stressful things in life " Creative workshop participant 2025

The direct feedback gathered from participants show a satisfaction rate from our engagement project above 90%, with a vast majority rating it as very good. Our conversations with our partners in education confirms that our programme demonstrates a powerful commitment to artistic excellence, collaboration, and inclusive practice.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE YEAR (CONTINUED)

The feedback received points to Fertile Ground’s ability to foster meaningful connections across different groups, particularly by creating inclusive spaces where young people—including those with learning disabilities—can collaborate with peers and professional dancers. These shared experiences not only build confidence and inspiration but also expand participants’ sense of belonging within the wider dance ecology.

Fundraising

Working with freelance fundraising consultant Samantha Hobrough, we submitted 21 funding applications to trusts and foundations to support Fertile Ground’s charitable activities and secured £40,074 from successful outcomes. These funds were generously contributed by the Percy Hedley 1990 Charitable Trust (£1,000), Arts Council England (£13,574), Newcastle Community Investment Fund (£12,000), the Joicey Trust (£1,000), The Garrick Charitable Trust (£2,000), The Barbour Foundation (£5,000), The Shears Foundation (£4,500), and the Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust (£1,000) supporting the company’s core structure, organisational stability, and delivery of The Harvest Festival programme.

Fertile Ground is deeply grateful for the support from all these organisations.

Financial Review

The financial out-turn for the year is an unrestricted surplus of £6,529 (2025: Unrestricted surplus of £4,865), leaving a balance on Unrestricted Funds of £27,170 at 28 February 2026 (2025: £20,641).

The Trustees consider the financial performance of the charity to be satisfactory.

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

Following the success of this programme, we have decided to build on this model for our next performance project in 2027. Subject to funding, this will include the commissioning of two new works by local dance makers, further embedding our commitment to supporting regional talent while continuing to develop a more connected and inclusive programme.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

For the year ended 28 February 2026

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRUSTEES

The Trustees (who are also the Directors of Fertile Ground Dance Limited for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial period which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Signed by order of the Trustees

Jennifer Gabbitus Chair of Trustees Company Registration Number 10599285

15 July 2026

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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS ON THE UNAUDITED ACCOUNTS OF FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

I hereby report to the Trustees of Fertile Ground Dance Limited (Charity Registration Number 1180001) on my examination of the accounts for the year ended 28 February 2026 set out on pages 16 to 25.

Responsibilities and Basis of Report

As the charity’s Trustees (and also its directors for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’).

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent Examiner’s Statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods or principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102)).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Pete O’Hara, FCA, Chartered Accountant

Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales

26 La Sagesse, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 3AF

15 July 2026

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

Note
Income
Income from Investments
3
Income from Donations & Legacies
4
Income from Charitable Activities
5
Other Income
6
Expenditure
Expenditure on Raising Funds
7
Expenditure on Charitable Activities
8
Net Income/(Expenditure)
Balance brought forward
Balance carried forward
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
2026
Total
2025
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9,871
33,574
43,445
51,112
8,700
-
8,700
6,555
18,571
33,574
52,145
57,667
-
550
550
4,400
12,042
36,487
48,529
41,787
12,042
37,037
49,079
46,187
6,529
(3,463)
3,066
11,480
20,641
8,615
29,256
17,776
£27,170
£5,152
£32,322
£29,256

The notes on pages 18 to 25 form part of the financial statements.

All of the activities of the company are classed as continuing.

The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses in the year and therefore a statement of total recognised gains and losses has not been prepared.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION/BALANCE SHEET AS AT 28 FEBRUARY 2026

ERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED
A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION/BALANCE SHEET
S AT 28 FEBRUARY 2026
Notes
Fixed Assets
Tangible Fixed Assets
11
Current Assets
Debtors
12
Cash At Bank & In Hand
Creditors – Amounts Falling Due Within 1 Year
13
Net Current Assets/(Liabilities)
Total Net Assets
14
Represented by:
Unrestricted Reserves
15
Restricted Reserves
15
2026
2025
£
£
-
-
22,891
8,074
16,286
27,455
39,177
35,529
(6,855)
(6,273)
32,322
29,256
£32,322
£29,256
27,170
20,641
5,152
8,615
£32,322
£29,256

The notes on pages 18 to 25 form part of the financial statements.

The Trustees are satisfied that for the year ended 28 February 2026 the charity was entitled to exemption under section 477(2) of the Companies Act 2006.

The Trustees also confirm that the Members have not required the charity to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006

The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for:

(i) ensuring that the charity keeps adequate accounting records which comply with section 386 of the Act, and

(ii) preparing financial statements 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 its profit or loss for the financial year in accordance with the requirements of section 393, and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Act relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charity.

These financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 15 July 2026 and signed on their behalf:

Jennifer Gabbitus Chair of Trustees Company Registration Number 10599285

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

1. Accounting Policies

Basis of Accounting

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with applicable United Kingdom accounting standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 – 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland' ('FRS 102'), and with the Companies Act 2006 and the Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP FRS 102) "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" and the Charities Act 2011.

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, modified to include certain financial instruments at fair value.

Advantage has been taken of the provisions in the SORP for Charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a statement of cashflows.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity.

Taxation Status

Fertile Ground Dance Limited is a Charity registered under the 1960 Charities Act and is accorded exemption from liability to taxation on its income under S505 Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988.

Going Concern

There are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue.

Income

All income is included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income, any performance related conditions attached have been met or are fully within the control of the charity, the income is considered probable and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy.

The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income:

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

1. Accounting Policies (Continued)

Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates:

Tangible Fixed Assets and Depreciation

Capital items costing over £250 are capitalised and included in fixed assets.

Depreciation is provided on any fixed assets at rates calculated to write off the assets over their remaining useful lives as follows:

IT Equipment – 3 years

Impairment of Fixed Assets

A review for indicators of impairment is carried out at each reporting date, with the recoverable amount being estimated where such indicators exist. Where the carrying value exceeds the recoverable amount, the asset is impaired accordingly. Prior impairments are also reviewed for possible reversal at each reporting date.

Financial Instruments

A financial asset or a financial liability is recognised only when the charity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at the amount receivable or payable including any related transaction costs.

Current assets and current liabilities are subsequently measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid or received and not discounted.

Debt instruments are subsequently measured at amortised cost where there is a material adjustment.

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FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

1. Accounting Policies (Continued)

Fund Accounting

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the purposes of the charity.

Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for specific purposes.

Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor.

Judgements and Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty

The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. These estimates and judgements are continually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

There are no significant judgements or estimation uncertainty included within the financial statements.

2. Legal Status

The charity is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. The liability of each member in the event of winding up is limited to £1.

3. Income from Investments

Bank Interest Receivable Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
2026
£
2025
£
-
-
-
-
£-
£-
£-
£-

4. Income from Donations & Legacies

Donations - General Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
2026
£
2025
£
-
-
-
-
£-
£-
£-
£-

20

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

5. Income from Charitable Activities

Grant Income
Arts Council England – Play Pause
Repeat
Arts Council England – The Harvest /
Fertile Ground Festival
Catherine Cookson Trust – Festival of
Dance
Garrick Charitable Trust – The Harvest
Joicey Trust – The Harvest
Backstage Trust
Barbour Foundation – Core Costs
Shears Foundation – Core Costs
Percy Hedley 1990 Charitable Trust -
The Harvest
Community Foundation – Newcastle
Cultural Investment Fund
Sir James Knott Trust – Core Costs
Earned Income
Performance Fees/Commissions
Ticket Sales
Workshop/Residency Fees
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
2026
£
2025
£
-
-
-
19,635
-
13,574
13,574
-
-
1,000
1,000
-
-
2,000
2,000
-
-
1,000
1,000
-
-
10,000
5,000
-
5,000
-
4,500
-
4,500
-
-
1,000
1,000
-
-
12,000
12,000
10,000
-
3,000
3,000
3,000
9,500
33,574
43,074
42,635
-
-
-
2,050
371
-
371
1,427
-
-
-
5,000
371
-
371
8,477
£9,871
£33,574
£43,445
£51,112

The 2025 total of £51,112 comprises £8,477 relating to Unrestricted Funds and £42,635 relating to Restricted Funds.

6. Other Income

Theatre Tax Relief Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
2026
£
2025
£
8,700
-
8,700
6,555
£8,700
£-
£8,700
£6,555

The 2025 total of £6,555 relates wholly to Unrestricted Funds.

21

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

7. Expenditure on Raising Funds

Fundraising Consultancy
The 2025 total of £4,400 relates wholly
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
2026
£
2025
£
-
550
550
4,400
£-
£550
£550
£4,400
to Restricted Funds.

8. Expenditure on Charitable Activities

Unrestricted Restricted 2026 2025
Funds Funds
£ £ £ £
Production & Activity Costs
Bursaries/360 Programme - 750 750 750
Freelance Fees 1,991 21,840 23,831 20,546
Advertising, Marketing & PR 1,300 1,465 2,765 3,963
Travel & Subsistence Costs - 1,955 1,955 2,718
Other Direct Costs 2,542 10,235 12,777 9,047
Support Costs
Premises Costs 2,229 - 2,229 2,000
Office Costs/Other Overheads 1,044 242 1,286 580
Depreciation - - - 126
Governance Costs
Accountancy & Book-keeping Fees 2,640 - 2,640 1,440
Consultancy Fees - - - 500
Trustee Meeting Costs 296 - 296 117
£12,042 £36,487 £48,529 £41,787

The 2025 total of £41,787 comprises £10,167 relating to Unrestricted Funds and £31,620 relating to Restricted Funds.

9. Net Movement in Funds

et Movement in Funds
2026 2025
£ £
The net movement in Funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation of Owned Fixed Assets - 126
Independent Examiner’s Fees – Independent Examination 1,080 1,080
Independent Examiner’s Fees – Other Services 360 360

22

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

10. Staff Costs & Directors’ Remuneration

The charity employed no staff in the year (2025: None)

No remuneration was paid to or waived by Trustees/Directors in the year (2025: £Nil) and no costs (2025: £Nil) were reimbursed to Trustees in respect of their attendance at meetings of the charity.

11. Tangible Fixed Assets

Cost
At 1 March 2025
Additions
At 28 February 2026
Depreciation
At 1 March 2025
Charge for year
At 28 February 2026
Net Book Value
At 28 February 2026
At 1 March 2025
12.
Debtors
Trade Debtors
Accrued Income
Theatre Tax Relief
Prepayments
All sums are due within 1 year.
Office &
ICT
Equipment
Total
Fixed
Assets
£
£
1,447
1,447
-
-
1,447
1,447
1,447
1,447
-
-
1,447
1,447
£-
£-
£-
£-
2026
£
2025
£
13,825
-
-
1,250
8,700
6,555
366
269
£22,891
£8,074

23

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

13. Creditors – Amounts Falling Due Within 1 Year

2026
£
2025
£
Trade Creditors
540
4,523
Accruals
6,315
1,750
£6,855
£6,273
14.
Analysis of Net Assets between Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
2026
Total
2025
£
£
£
£
Fixed Assets
-
-
-
-
Debtors
9,317
13,574
22,891
8,074
Cash at Bank and In Hand
24,658
(8,372)
16,286
27,455
Creditors – Due Within 1 Year
(6,805)
(50)
(6,855)
(6,273)
£27,170
£5,152
£32,322
£29,256
15.
Analysis of Charitable Funds
At 1
March
2025
£
Income
in Year
£
Expenditure
in Year
£
At 28
February
2026
£
Unrestricted Funds
20,641
18,571
(12,042)
27,170
Restricted Funds
Arts Council England – The Harvest /
Fertile Ground Festival
-
13,574
(13,574)
-
Backstage Trust
3,615
(3,615)
-
Catherine Cookson Trust – Festival of
Dance
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Community Foundation – Newcastle
Cultural Investment Fund
2,000
12,000
(11,848)
2,152
Garrick Charitable Trust – The Harvest
-
2,000
(2,000)
-
Joicey Trust – The Harvest
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Percy Hedley 1990 Charitable Trust -
The Harvest
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Sir James Knott Trust
3,000
3,000
(3,000)
3,000
Total Restricted Funds
8,615
33,574
(37,037)
5,152
Total Funds
£29,256
£52,145
£(49,079)
£32,322
2026
£
2025
£
Trade Creditors
540
4,523
Accruals
6,315
1,750
£6,855
£6,273
14.
Analysis of Net Assets between Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
2026
Total
2025
£
£
£
£
Fixed Assets
-
-
-
-
Debtors
9,317
13,574
22,891
8,074
Cash at Bank and In Hand
24,658
(8,372)
16,286
27,455
Creditors – Due Within 1 Year
(6,805)
(50)
(6,855)
(6,273)
£27,170
£5,152
£32,322
£29,256
15.
Analysis of Charitable Funds
At 1
March
2025
£
Income
in Year
£
Expenditure
in Year
£
At 28
February
2026
£
Unrestricted Funds
20,641
18,571
(12,042)
27,170
Restricted Funds
Arts Council England – The Harvest /
Fertile Ground Festival
-
13,574
(13,574)
-
Backstage Trust
3,615
(3,615)
-
Catherine Cookson Trust – Festival of
Dance
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Community Foundation – Newcastle
Cultural Investment Fund
2,000
12,000
(11,848)
2,152
Garrick Charitable Trust – The Harvest
-
2,000
(2,000)
-
Joicey Trust – The Harvest
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Percy Hedley 1990 Charitable Trust -
The Harvest
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Sir James Knott Trust
3,000
3,000
(3,000)
3,000
Total Restricted Funds
8,615
33,574
(37,037)
5,152
Total Funds
£29,256
£52,145
£(49,079)
£32,322
2026
£
2025
£
Trade Creditors
540
4,523
Accruals
6,315
1,750
£6,855
£6,273
14.
Analysis of Net Assets between Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
2026
Total
2025
£
£
£
£
Fixed Assets
-
-
-
-
Debtors
9,317
13,574
22,891
8,074
Cash at Bank and In Hand
24,658
(8,372)
16,286
27,455
Creditors – Due Within 1 Year
(6,805)
(50)
(6,855)
(6,273)
£27,170
£5,152
£32,322
£29,256
15.
Analysis of Charitable Funds
At 1
March
2025
£
Income
in Year
£
Expenditure
in Year
£
At 28
February
2026
£
Unrestricted Funds
20,641
18,571
(12,042)
27,170
Restricted Funds
Arts Council England – The Harvest /
Fertile Ground Festival
-
13,574
(13,574)
-
Backstage Trust
3,615
(3,615)
-
Catherine Cookson Trust – Festival of
Dance
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Community Foundation – Newcastle
Cultural Investment Fund
2,000
12,000
(11,848)
2,152
Garrick Charitable Trust – The Harvest
-
2,000
(2,000)
-
Joicey Trust – The Harvest
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Percy Hedley 1990 Charitable Trust -
The Harvest
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
Sir James Knott Trust
3,000
3,000
(3,000)
3,000
Total Restricted Funds
8,615
33,574
(37,037)
5,152
Total Funds
£29,256
£52,145
£(49,079)
£32,322
2026
£
2025
£
540
4,523
6,315
1,750
£6,855
£6,273
Total
2026
Total
2025
£
£
-
-
22,891
8,074
16,286
27,455
(6,855)
(6,273)
£27,170
£5,152
£32,322
£29,256
At 1
March
2025
£
Income
in Year
£
Expenditure
in Year
£
At 28
February
2026
£
20,641
18,571
(12,042)
27,170
-
13,574
(13,574)
-
3,615
(3,615)
-
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
2,000
12,000
(11,848)
2,152
-
2,000
(2,000)
-
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
-
1,000
(1,000)
-
3,000
3,000
(3,000)
3,000
8,615
33,574
(37,037)
5,152
£29,256
£52,145
£(49,079)
£32,322

24

FERTILE GROUND DANCE LIMITED (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

15. Analysis of Charitable Funds (Cont.)

Name of Restricted Fund Description, Nature & Purpose of the Fund Arts Council England – The Harvest / Towards the cost of Fertile Ground’s festival, Fertile Ground Festival ‘The Harvest’ Backstage Trust Towards organisational development - engagement work, fundraising and the costs of the Artistic Director

Catherine Cookson Trust – Festival of Towards the cost of a Fertile Ground festival Dance

Community Foundation – Newcastle Towards the costs of engagement and schools Cultural Investment Fund work and a contribution to the post of Artistic Director Garrick Charitable Trust – The Harvest Towards the cost of ‘The Harvest’ Joicey Trust – The Harvest Towards the cost of ‘The Harvest’ Percy Hedley 1990 Charitable Trust - Towards the cost of ‘The Harvest’ The Harvest Sir James Knott Trust Towards the costs of young dancer development

16. Related Party Transactions

There were no transactions in the year with related parties, such as are required to be disclosed (2025: Nil).

17. Financial Commitments

No material financial commitments have been made in respect of future financial periods.

18. Company Limited by Guarantee

The company was under the control of its Trustees in the current and previous financial years.

The charity is incorporated under the Companies Act 1985 and is limited by guarantee, each member having undertaken to contribute such amounts not exceeding £1 as may be required in the event of the company being wound up whilst he or she is still a member or within one year thereafter.

There are currently 7 members of the company (2025: 7).

25