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2024-12-31-accounts

LOVE - SERVE - FOLLOW

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Diocese of London

Charity Registration No. 1186310

Reports & Financial Statements 31 December 2024

Tandem Accounting Limited Chartered Accountants 17 Heathville Road London N19 3AL

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report and Financial Statements 2024 Contents

Page
Legal & administrative information 2
Report of the Parochial Church Council 4
Independent Examiner's report to the Parochial Church Council 15
Statement of financial activities 16
Balance sheet 17
Notes to the financial statements 18

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Legal & Administrative Information For the year ended 31 December 2024

Charity Name The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Mark, Tollington Park.

Charity Registration The Parochial Church Council (PCC) was registered with the Charity Commission on 13 November 2019 (charity number 1186310). Principal Address The correspondence address is St Mark Parish Office, 1a Moray Road, London N4 3LD. The Governing Parochial Church Council Powers Measure (1956) as amended and Church Representation Document Rules. Objectives The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It is also responsible for the maintenance of the church building complex at St Mark’s Moray Road.

The overall vision in 2024 was to transform Tollington through our love for God and one another by serving the community in which God has placed us and by following Jesus and calling others to follow Him. By engaging in worship, outreach, and discipleship, we hope to cultivate a Christcentred community that beautifully reflects God’s Kingdom right here in Finsbury Park.

Members of the PCC The members of the PCC who served during the twelve months to 31 December 2024 or who were serving at the time of the approval of this report were:

Incumbent Rev Trevor Golding (Chair, until June 2024) vacancy Church Wardens Andrew Down (Reappointed April 2024) Omofunmilayo Sulaiman (Reappointed April 2024) Treasurer Thomas Waters (Resigned April 2024) Lucilla Ting (Appointed May 2024) Representatives on Stewart Mason the Deanery Synod Anita Mason (Appointed May 2024) Elected PCC Inge Diamond Members Aurore Down Chloe McDonald (Resigned July 2024) Barbara Nyamah (Resigned May 2024) Henriett Hadler (Resigned May 2024) Rachel D'Souza Jeremy Porter (Departed St Mark’s September 2024) Laura Porter (Departed St Mark’s September 2024) Tyler Overton (Appointed April 2024) Clement Adebayo (Appointed April 2024) Bea Fenton (Appointed May 2024) Chung Ting (Appointed May 2024) Thomas Waters (Transitioned from Treasurer role May 2024)

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Legal & Administrative Information For the year ended 31 December 2024

Key Management Those in charge of directing, controlling, running and operating the Charity on a day-to-day basis
Personnel are the members of the Standing Committee: -
Revd Trevor Golding (Vicar, until June 2024)
Andrew Down (Warden)
Omofunmilayo Sulaiman (Warden)
Rachel D’Souza (Chair from July 2024)
Thomas Waters (Treasurer)
Lucilla Ting (Treasurer)
Bankers HSBC
Holborn
Holborn Circus
London EC1N 2HR
CAF Bank Ltd
25 Kings Hill Avenue
Kings Hill
West Malling
Kent
ME19 4JQ
Independent John Helm ACA
Examiner Tandem Accounting Limited
17 Heathville Road
London N19 3AL

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Mark, Tollington Park (“PCC”) submits its report and the financial statements of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2024. The financial statements have been prepared in the format prescribed by the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP2019 (FRS102)). The legal and administrative information set out earlier in this document forms part of this report.

In the period covered by this report has been marked by significant developments as there have been considerable changes in ministry throughout the year.

Throughout this time, St Mark’s has strived to know Christ and see His Kingdom extended in this diverse area of London, through worship and presence, through evangelism, acts of service and the witness of Christian lives lived out with integrity in families, schools, the local neighbourhood and the workplace.

A constant theme for our ministry is Love, Serve and Follow, which continues, and we also want to develop and use the gifts of the Spirit in all of this, expecting the unexpected.

1. Structure, Governance & Management

1.1 Trustees

The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation rules. All church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and to stand for election to the PCC.

Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parish Meetings in accordance with the Church Representation Rules and are trained at the first meeting on how to participate.

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. At St. Mark’s the membership of the PCC consists of the incumbent (our vicar), churchwardens, and members elected by those members of the congregation who are on the electoral roll of the church. All those who attend our services / members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent.

The full PCC met six times during the period. The Standing committee consisting of the Vicar, Churchwardens, Chair and treasurer met on several occasions to discuss important urgent issues and help set the agenda for PCC meetings and giving feedback and offer proposals on specific matters refereed from previous PCC meetings to the Standing committee.

1.2 Electoral Roll

At the APCM in 2024 there were 126 names on the Electoral Roll. As of 31st December 2024, there were 120 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll as 6 were removed because they moved away from the parish.

1.3 Risk Management

The PCC has a risk management strategy which comprises:

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

2. Activities & Strategies

The PCC has given due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit. The PCC believes that by promoting the Christian faith it provides a benefit to the public by:

The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to become part of our parish community at St. Mark’s. The PCC maintains an overview of worship within the parish and seeks ways in which our services and activities can involve the many groups that live within our parish. Our services and worship aim to help people put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament.

When planning our activities for the period, we have considered the Commission’s guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. In particular, we try to enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through:

To facilitate this work, it is important that we maintain the fabric of the Church of St. Mark and the adjoined Church Hall and facilities.

3. PCC

3.1 PCC

The PCC has 10 elected member positions, 2 Deanery Synod member positions and 2 churchwardens. The Clergy (when St Mark’s not in vacancy) also attend the PCC as ex-officio members.

The PCC met six times during the period with good attendance. Minutes and attendance are recorded at each PCC meeting.

The PCC complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy discipline measure 2018 in relation to having due regard to the House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and adults.

3.2 Standing Committee

The Standing Committee plans the agenda for the PCC and presents to the PCC various matters which need its attention.

4. Parish life and Ministry

4.1 Worship and Prayer

It has been an interesting time during 2024, as we have seen a lot of change in ministry over the course of the year. Our much beloved Vicar Trevor Golding and his wife Lois sadly left us in June 2024 to take up a semi-retirement post at St Elizabeth’s Becontree. We would like to pay tribute to the huge contribution Trevor and Lois made to the ministry at St Marks over the last few years, joining us just before Covid hit. Before he could find his feet, Trevor was forced to take on the role of TV Evangelist, broadcasting from an empty church during those early dark days of Covid. He had exactly the right technical and presentational skills to make this a real success. His teaching was always powerful and relevant, and his organisational skills to steer a course through the church of England administrational processes have been sorely missed.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

WE SAID GOODBYE TO REV TREV AND LOIS IN JUNE

We do have to say thank you to Archdeacon Peter who came to our rescue and arranged for an interim minister Matt Tinsley to join us for 3 months from July onwards whilst we found our feet. We really enjoyed having Matt, his wife Laura and the twins as part of our community, where he seemed to settle in and know everyone almost instantly. We thank Matt for his leadership during this time, and for setting up systems to encourage members of the leadership team to lead services. Despite our best efforts to encourage him to stay, he was well down the path of interviewing for the post of Vicar at St John’s Holloway, and we had to graciously let him go.

WE SAID HELLO AND GOODBYE TO MATT AND LAURA

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

Since the departure of Matt in October we have been on our own regarding the leadership of the church. However, nothing feels further from the truth in this statement. We have felt the power of the Holy Spirit moving, bringing new people into the church and equipping many within the congregation to lead services and preach. The church wardens would like to thank all those who have stepped up in so many different areas, to allow the church to flourish during the interregnum.

We look forward to appointing a new vicar in 2025 and pray God will lead the correct leader to our door.

This year we have had a number of fellowship lunches, although often as a result of celebrating those who have been leaving.

The Ark Stay & Play which were such a success under Laura, our children’s workers’ tenure, have been able to keep open thanks to the selfless dedication of church members, particularly, Inge who has taken on this particular mid-week ministry.

Anita has reinvigorated Craft Circle, which meets on Thursday morning and is open to anyone. It is based on the following - that we pass on our handicraft skills to others. It has become a place of support, encouragement and friendship. Craft Circle started making quilt hugs for a charity called Q4CL which gave the rugs away to Care Leavers throughout the country, starting at Christmas Lunches and now throughout the year.

We thank Tyler for giving Life Groups a relaunch, with five life groups meeting regularly to explore the bible and encourage one another in our faith. Life groups are led by: Tyler and Sarah, Patience, Georgina, Margaret and Laurie, and Heather

The average weekly attendance, counted during October 2024, was 87 adults and 19 children under 16. We no longer count those who attend online as it is not possible with the YouTube platform.

As well as our regular services, we have been privileged to undertake occasional offices, and this year have conducted 1 funeral and baptised 2 children and 1 adult and had 2 renewals of baptismal vows. There were no weddings in 2024.

At the end of July, approximately 50 from St Mark’s, half of whom were under 18, joined with other HTB network churches for Focus. Around 8000 people attended the event held at the Newark Showground for 4 days of worship, teaching, fellowship, and fun.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

St Mark’s continues to run occasional services at local care homes, St Anne’s and Lennox House. These have been greatly appreciated by local residents, and it has been a fantastic opportunity to both serve our local community and further our evangelistic reach as a church.

There have been a number of Alpha, courses run during the year from people’s homes, and we are encouraged at the interest people have shown in learning about the Chirstian faith in a relaxed setting, with the added bonus of food. We would like to thank all the Alpha leaders for their service. Trevor and Lois, Margaret and Lawrie, Rachel and JD.

4.2 Worship + Production Team Report

We said goodbye to our part time staff worship leader Surj who has been such a blessing to us over the last few years. He has moved onto a multi-site church in Exeter where he looks after a team of worship leaders, so this has been a progressive move for him. We do miss all he has been doing for the church, with preaching, graphics and generally been fully involved with the life of the St Marks.

WE SAID GOODBYE TO SURJ

Surj kindly came back for a few weeks whilst we were looking for new worship leaders and also provided us with prerecorded music we used on a couple of occasions.

4.3 Children’s Ministry Report

Laura our children’s ministry worker left St Marks in October 2024. We were grateful for what Laura achieved during her time with St Marks. She headed up the children’s family fun day where she organised various acts such as bouncy castles, animal petting zoo with animals such as small reptiles, parrots, rabbits, for the children to see touch and learn about, candy floss making, climbing frames and soft play. It brought together families from the area and beyond enabling, St Marks to reach out to the community.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

Laura left us with a catalogue of lessons, and as the bible does not change her planned lessons have been a canvass we have used to produce fresh material for the children.

Aurore is heading up the children’s work now, and the original team of volunteers has increased slightly, and are the backbone to the children's work, working with great delight and enthusiasm. Attendance is good with the number of children growing. The use of video, presently Saddleback kids have allowed the children to engage very well. We have discussed the stories within the group to allow the children to relate to the bible teaching to everyday life. We have continued to cover topics such as the Heros in the Old Testament, miracles of Jesus the parables and so forth. Our discussion allows the children to ask questions about faith, which can be very insightful. Teaching in groups is flexibly depending on the age range attending, we have also encouraged the older children to help the younger children, this allowed bonds of friendships to be formed.

We still have a designated Creche area in the vestibule.

Despite not having a children support worker, with thanks to Inge Diamond a member of the PCC, the Ark which is still a strong cornerstone in the community takes place once a week. With Inge's direction, it is a delight to see members of the congregation pitching in after service on Sundays to prepare the hall for Ark, this has helped foster a bond between the adults and the children as they help.

4.4 Youth Ministry

Throughout 2024 our Young Youth group for 11–14-year-olds has met most Sundays within school term times, during the morning service. At the start of the year this was led by Jake, our Youth worker, with approximately 4 volunteers helping alongside him. Unfortunately, the Youth Worker post was discontinued mid 2024 due to financial pressures, which included the loss of a valuable grant. However, we have been able with volunteers to continue with this group, having approximately 6 young people per session (and 9 on the register) by the end of the year. We have enjoyed looking at Who is God, followed by reviewing the Jesus said I am statements, and how this relates to our lives today.

We had a great Christingle service at Christmas in which 6 of the young people enjoyed being involved, either reading from the bible, praying, or helping with the lighting of candles.

The Evening Youth group meetings on Sunday evenings were stopped in January as no young people attended. This group was happily reestablished, again by volunteers, at the end of 2024, with a small group of approximately 4-6 aged 16-25yrs. Whilst still in post Jake continued to help at the weekly youth group on the Andover Estate, providing young people with activities and a warm meal. Unfortunately, we have not had the capacity to continue involvement in this great outreach opportunity but hope to do so in the future.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

The HTB Focus camp in July was again a highlight for some of our young people - of the 55 people going to Focus over half were under 18!

We have always been encouraged by how much our young people are involved in wider ministries in the church and beyond. They have continued to volunteer as part of the worship team, reading and intercessions and other ministries.

A few of our young people attended the newly established North Islington Youth Gatherings, starting from September. Plus, two of the girls have enjoyed the monthly after school get-togethers for girls at a Costa coffee shop in Archway.

We would love to secure funding to be able again to appoint a part-time youth worker, to help us build relationships with the local schools.

4.5 Staff

This was the year we lost all our staff, so it has been challenging for the church wardens and PCC to arrange for all the roles previously taken by staff to be taken over by PCC members and volunteers. There have been substantial financial pressures on the church with a fall in income and increase in costs, which has made it necessary for the church to operate for a season without any staff. However, we are hopeful that next year we may be able to appoint a party time children’s worker and youth worker. The one part time volunteer we have who has morphed into a 10 hour a week staff member is Shilton, who has proved most valuable in dealing with some of the routine operational matters around sending out the weekly e- mail, preparing the projection slides and order of service, as well as his ongoing work with social media. Surj has been working remotely to tutor Shilton into this role, for which we are very grateful.

We wished fond farewells to Jake, our full-time youth and children’s worker, Laura our part-time children and part-time operations manager, and Surj our part-time worship leader. We wish them all well in their new jobs working with different churches around the country.

WE SAID GOODBYE TO JAKE, AND TO LAURA AND JEREMY

4.6 Volunteers

We are grateful to all the volunteers that do so much to make St Mark’s church function, particularly those that have stepped up whilst we have been in Interregnum, and with no paid church staff.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

We particularly appreciate our two churchwardens, Andy Down and Funmi Sulaiman, who have brought their experience and wisdom with tireless enthusiasm, hard work and a never-ending commitment to serving God and his people with such humility. We would like to thank all those who serve on the PCC, especially our Treasurers Lucilla and Chung Ting (from April 24) and Tom Waters prior to this, and Anita Mason who does so much behind-the-scenes admin.

We thank the many others who serve at our service, both seen and unseen, making St Mark’s the welcoming community that it is: - those who help with children and youth, the welcome and stewarding team, the worship and production team, those who serve refreshments, Chris Charie who provides the wonderful floral displays, cleaning etc. We thank those who preach, lead prayers, read and assist at communion, and lead life groups.

We also are grateful to all who provide regular services in our local Elderly Care Homes, and others who visit those in hospital and are confined at home. It is not possible to mention all the volunteers and all the areas they serve, partly in fear of missing someone or an aspect of church life from the list, but we want to say we are deeply grateful for every contribution made in volunteering for ministry and service in the church.

4.7 Deanery Synod

In the Church of England, a deanery synod is a synod convened by the Area Dean and/or the Joint Lay Chair of the Deanery Synod, who is elected by the elected lay members. It consists of all clergy licensed to a benefice within the deanery, plus elected lay members. It acts as an intermediary between the Parochial Church Councils of each parish in its deanery and the synod of the diocese as a whole. Thank you to Anita and Stewart Mason, our Deanery Synod Reps.

4.8 Church Complex

The Church and hall complex continue to be let out through the Sharesy web site for occasional, such as children’s parties mainly. Both upper and lower halls are used on Sundays for children and youth work. During the week, the lower hall is also used for life groups during the evening and on a Tuesday, for The Ark Stay & Play, and on Thursday mornings for Craft Circle. Narcotics Anonymous continue to use the vestibule on a Friday evening.

4.9 Pastoral care

Pastoral care has been mainly through life groups and individuals doing home visits. We continue to operate a prayer chain for those who request prayer support. With no full time Vicar, the PCC have split the various roles within the church and Funmi his heading up our Pastoral care outreach.

4.10 Mission & Outreach

Soul in The City relaunched this year, with an amazing day of celebration in the Andover community in July, working alongside the Andover community centre staff and the council. Many volunteers from St Mark’s church rocked up to provide a massive BBQ. And St Mark’s church stall was well received, providing bibles and tracts, and the opportunity to pray with people. St Mark's also provided children's crafts and facepainting.

We also hosted a Family Funday in the summer, which was well attended by many families from the local community.

A New Year’s Eve family party was also a great success with many from outside the congregation attending.

We continued where it is possible to supply vouchers, food, clothing, hot meals and drinks to the homeless or those in need who come to the vicarage doorstep, although the vicarage was largely empty from September. Thank you to those who have generously contributed both financially and in supplies of clothing and toiletries.

We regularly make collections for the Hive Food Bank, and we have made referrals for people who live in our parish to the food bank. Thank you to those who have donated food to the food bank, such as during our Harvest service in October.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

4.11 St Marks Church of England Primary School

Our strong and valuable relationship with St Mark’s School has continued, although we have not been able to provide regular Assemblies or the weekly lunchtime club since Rev Trev (as the children knew him) and our youth worker moved on. The school has held several services in church. Marlon Dixon became a foundation governor in June. We hope to appoint a second foundation governor once a place becomes available, having agreed on a temporary basis for Cathryn Sheehan to take the second foundation governor place enabling her to take up place of chair.

4.12 Safeguarding

The PCC complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy discipline measure 2018 in relation to having due regard to the House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and adults. The parish Safeguarding Officer is Rachel D’Souza.

We continue to work to ensure all members of the church have, as relevant to their role, valid DBS certificates and are up to date with their safeguarding training.

4.13 Fabric and Buildings

St Mark’s last had its quinquennial (5-Yearly) inspection in August 2022, and it highlighted a significant number of repairs to stonework, general repairs and possible major works on the tower and spire. We are grateful to the Richard Cloudesley trust for grants towards our ongoing building repairs and Paul Travis, our QI, for all his advice and input in maintaining our buildings. We continue to work through our quinquennial report (2022), addressing the issues raised.

Cloudesley have also supported us with a number of grants which are ongoing.

MISSING LEADWORK

Sadly, at the start of the year some unfriendly parties took it upon themselves to remove the lead flashing to the front vestry area which resulted in leaks into the kitchen and vestry below. We had to install new lead work.

EMERGENCY GRANT FOR REPAIRS

We had various leaks coming into the gallery area, and at a high level above the altar, and around the glass roof over the main staircase leading to the upper hall. All were the result of roof problems with missing lead or dislodging or broken slates. We applied and were granted an emergency grant to make these good, and the work has now been carried out. Redecoration work still needs to be done now everything has dried out.

WORK TO ELECTRICAL UPGRADE TO USE SOLAR PANELS

The ongoing saga of effectively connecting the solar panels to the electric meter so we can make use of the feedback tariff continues. Trevor (who was an electrical engineer in a former life) got the process started but it seems a horribly complicated process involving UK power networks, Octopus, our power providers and our own electrician who all need input. We have engaged a consultant to try and work through the issues so we can make use of the Cloudesley grant available and be able to drastically reduce our electricity consumption.

STONEWORK REPAIRS TO CHUCH HALL ENTRANCE

There is a Cloudesley grant available for around £29,000 to repair the broken lintel above the church hall doors and make repairs to the stonework. We are trying to engage the specialist stonemasons for this work to take place this summer.

FACULTY FOR INCLUSION OF NEW INNER GLASS DOORS TO CHURCH HALL

We were given a £10,000 grant from Cloudesley to fit a new frameless glass door inside the existing double doors to the church hall. This has now been approved in principle by the diocese, and we are making the formal faculty application. This would allow the outer timber double doors to be left open when the hall is in use, with the glass door providing easier access and visibility for all visitors including those who are wheelchair users.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

5. Financial Review

The PCC’s main sources of funding were the free will offerings of church members and grants from third parties. The PCC is very grateful to the Richard Cloudesley Charity, the Porters Trust, Islington Borough Council, and specific gifts from private individuals for their support.

5.1 Financial Activity and Financial Position

The Statement of Financial Activities and Balance Sheet can be found on pages 16 and 17. The PCC’s reserves decreased by £2,564 during the year (2023: decreased by £59,378). The balance sheet shows total net assets of £108,004 (2023: £110,568).

Included in total funds are amounts totalling £24,857 (2023: £21,203) which are restricted. These monies have either been raised for, and their use restricted to, specific purposes or they comprise donations subject to donor-imposed conditions. Full details of these restricted funds can be found in note 9 to the accounts together with an analysis of movements in the year.

Total receipts on unrestricted funds were £197,861 of which £149,159 was unrestricted voluntary donations and £25,171 from Gift Aid. Income derived from the flats at Besant Walk and Moray Road amounted to £21,548. Restricted donations and grants of £18,025 were also received, including for children and youth work, and children and families’ work. Grantors included Islington Borough Council, the Richard Cloudesley Charity and the Porters Trust. We are very grateful to each of these organisations for the support that has enabled us to continue ministry and maintenance of our church buildings in these particularly unusual circumstances.

A total of £45,250 was contributed toward the diocesan parish share, which provides the stipends and housing for the clergy. The sum that the churches in the deanery have to find is shared between the churches according to a formula that is based mainly on a cost of ministry in each parish. We are fully committed to increasing our Common Fund contribution and hope to be paying the full share within 5 years from the formation of the new parish.

5.2 Reserves Policy

The PCC has adopted a policy whereby the equivalent of 3 months’ worth of non-discretionary committed expenditure is to be reserved.

These reserves enable St Mark’s to deal with the following contingencies: -

This policy is reviewed annually when the PCC sets the budget for the following financial year. At 31 December 2024 the PCC had net free reserves of £76,421 (2023: £76,983) as follows:

Total reserves
Less: unrestricted fixed assets
Less: restricted funds
Free reserves
Free reserves requirement		 2024 2023
£
110,568
(12,382)
(21,203)


£
108,004
(6,726)
(24,857)
76,983
76,421
40,000
40,000

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31 December 2024

5.3 Investment Policy

Spare funds are placed on bank deposit.

5.4 Grants Policy

The PCC aims to give 10% of its unrestricted donations, basing the amount on the total from the previous year (excluding grants and donations intended for particular projects). This annual giving is used to support missionary endeavours both in the UK and abroad and a discretionary fund for the Vicar which is used to help people in need. The missionary societies regularly supported include Interserve and The Caleb Initiative. For details of grants made, see note 4b.

6. Plans for Future Periods

In 2025, we hope to conclude the process of appointing a new vicar who will be able to lead St Mark’s, to carry out our vision, and to continue developing holy habits. Expanding upon the holy habits of 2024, we would like to do further outreach in perhaps, running Alpha courses, and also further fellowship and discipleship, in strengthening the range and depth of our life groups. Following the appointment of the vicar, we hope to be able to reappoint staff to further support the vision.

The St Mark’s Parish Profile that was created to support the appointment process contains more detail around our exciting church plans.

7. Responsibilities of Trustees for the Financial Statements

The PCC is responsible for preparing the Annual Report and financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accepted Accounting Practice.

Charity law requires the PCC to prepare a statement of financial activities and balance sheet for each financial year, which gives a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the PCC and of its financial activities for that year and adequately distinguishes any material special trust or another restricted fund of the PCC.

In preparing those financial statements, the PCC is required to:

The PCC is responsible for keeping adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enables them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. The PCC is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The PCC is responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included in the charity’s website.

8. Approval

The report of the PCC was approved by PCC on 15 May 2025 and signed on their behalf by:

Andrew Down Church Warden

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Report of the Independent Examiner to the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Mark, Tollington Park

I report on the accounts of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Mark, Tollington Park for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 16 to 26.

Respective responsibilities of PCC and examiner

The PCC is responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The treasurers of the new parishes consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. The charity’s gross income exceeds £250,000, and I am qualified to undertake the examination by being a qualified member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. It is my responsibility to:

The basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently, no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner’s statement

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

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the PCC as required by section 130 of the Act; or

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

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

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

John Helm ACA

Tandem Accounting 17 Heathville Road London N19 3AL 15 May 2025

15

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Statement of Financial Activities For the year ended 31 December 2024

Note
Income from:
2
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Total Income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
3
Charitable activities
4
Total Expenditure
Net gains/(losses) on
investments
Net Income

Transfers between funds
Other recognised gains/(losses)

Net movement in funds
Total funds brought forward

Total funds carried forward
 Unrestricted
Funds
2024
£

174,330
1,847
21,548
136		 Restricted
Funds
2024
£
18,025
-
-
-
18,025
-
14,371
14,371
-
3,654
-
3,654
21,203
24,857		 Unrestricted Restricted
Total Funds Funds Total
2024 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £
192,355 162,784 65,227 228,011
1,847 1,306 70 1,376
21,548 22,682 - 22,682
136 214 - 214
197,861
215,886 186,986 65,297 252,283
15,626
188,453
204,079
-
(6,218)
-
(6,218)
89,365
83,147
15,626 14,014 - 14,014
202,824 223,114 74,533 297,647
218,450 237,128 74,533 311,661
- - - -
(2,564) (50,142) (9,236) (59,378)
- 1,999 (1,999) -
- - - -
(2,564) (48,143) (11,235) (59,378)
110,568 137,508 32,438 169,946
108,004 89,365 21,203 110,568

16

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Balance Sheet As at 31 December 2024

Note

Fixed Assets
Tangible Assets
5
Current Assets
Debtors
6
Cash At Bank And In Hand
Creditors - Amounts Falling Due Within One Year
7
Net Current Assets
Creditors - Amounts Falling Due After More than
One Year
8
Net Assets
Represented By:
Restricted Income Funds
9
Unrestricted Income Funds
Total Funds		 Unrestricted
Funds
2024
£
6,726
6,726
18,187
63,499
81,686
5,265
76,421
-
83,147
-
83,147
83,147		 Restricted
Funds
2024
£
-
0
-
32,077
32,077
4,560
27,517
2,660
24,857
24,857
-
24,857
Total Total
2024 2023
£ £
6,726 12,382
6,726 12,382
18,187 53,024
95,576 80,106
113,763 133,130
9,825 27,724
103,938 105,406
2,660 7,220
108,004 110,568
24,857 21,203
83,147 89,365
108,004 110,568

The financial statements were approved by PCC on 15 May 2025 and signed on their behalf by:

Lucilla Ting Treasurer

17

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

1. Accounting Policies

The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:

Basis of accounting

The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and by the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP (FRS 102)). The financial statements are drawn up on the historical cost basis.

The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe an affiliation to another body or those that are informal gatherings of church members.

The PCC meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102.

Going Concern

There are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, and accordingly, the accounts have been drawn up on a going concern basis.

Income recognition

Voluntary income and donations (including legacies) are accounted for once the Charity has an entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount of income receivable can be reliably measured. Income from the recovery of tax on gift aided donations is accounted for in the period to which the relevant donation is received. Grant income is recognised on a receivable basis.

The income from trading activities includes rental income from the letting of church premises which is accounted for when earned. It is shown gross, with the associated costs included in fundraising costs.

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable, and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank.

Expenditure recognition

Expenditure is accrued as soon as a liability is considered probable, and the amount of obligation can be measured reliably. Longer term liabilities are discounted to present value. The PCC is not registered for VAT, and accordingly, expenditure includes VAT where appropriate.

Charitable expenditure includes those costs in fulfilling the PCC’s principal objects, as outlined in the Report of the PCC. These include grants payable and governance costs:

Rentals under operating leases are charged as incurred over the term of the lease.

18

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the period ended 31 December 2024

1. Accounting Policies (continued)

Tangible Fixed Assets

Consecrated Property and Moveable Church Furnishings

Consecrated land and benefice property such as the church building and vicarage is excluded in the accounts in accordance with s10 of the Charities Act 2011. Moveable church contents are held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and require a faculty for disposal are accounted as inalienable property unless consecrated. All expenditure incurred on consecrated or benefice buildings and moveable church furnishings, whether maintenance or improvement, is expensed within the Statement of Financial Activities.

Freehold Land & Buildings

The freehold land and building, comprising St Saviour’s church hall, is currently stated at nominal value pending redevelopment of the site. The freehold land and building are not depreciated as depreciation would be immaterial.

Other Fixtures, Fittings & Office Equipment

The cost of other furniture, fittings and equipment, less any expected residual value, is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the effective, useful life of the asset, which has been estimated as five years. Only the assets that cost at least £1,000 are capitalised.

Debtors

Debtors are included in the settlement amount due. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid.

Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of opening of the deposit.

Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation arising from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are recognised at their settlement amount.

Fund accounting

The funds held by the charity are either:

19

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

2. Income

Donations & legacies
Offerings and donations
Income tax reclaimed
Grants
Charitable activities
Fee income (net)
Course, events, and outings
Other trading activities
Lettings income
Other
Investment income
Interest		 Unrestricted
Funds
2024
£
Restricted
Funds
2024
£
149,159
3,600
25,171
375
-
14,050
174,330
18,025
1,287
-
560
-
1,847
0
21,548
-
-
-
21,548
0
136
-
197,861
18,025
Total Total
2024 2023
£ £
152,759 141,734
25,546 31,752
14,050 54,526
192,355 228,012
1,287 1,306
560 70
1,847 1,376
21,548 22,332
- 350
21,548 22,682
136 -
215,886 252,070

Grants include £3,750 (2023: £18,750) from Islington VCS, a local government funded scheme. £3,500 from The Porters Trust.

£6,800 from Cloudsley, a grant for stonework repair.

3. Expenditure – Raising Funds

Unrestricted
Funds
2024
£
Rent (Flat 1A, Moray Road)
13,348
Council tax
1,412
Repairs and maintenance
379
Collecting agent fees
487
15,626		 Restricted
Funds
2024
£
-
-
-
-
0		 Total
2024
£		 Total
2023
£
11,139
2,539
-
336
14,014
13,348
1,412
379
487
15,626

20

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

4. Expenditure – Charitable Activities

Provision of Clergy
Common Fund
Clergy expenses/pastoral costs
Staff costs
Gross salaries
Employer NI
Employment allowance
Pension contributions
Staff hospitality
Church Life & Outreach
Children/Youth/Families work
Ministry & Mission Outreach
Service costs
Worship
Gifts and grants (see note 4b below)
Provision of Buildings & Facilities
Heat, light & water
Insurance
Repairs, maintenance, equipment & cleaning
Health & safety
Besant Walk
Depreciation
Provision of Office & Support
Freelance Operations Manager
Bank Fees
Subscriptions
Printing, stationery, postage & telephone
IT Costs
Legal & professional
Bookkeeping & accountancy
Other
Governance
Independent examination
PCC meeting expenses		 Unrestricted
Funds
2024
£
Restricted
Funds
2024
£
45,250
-
639
-
45,889
0
49,351
3,639
4,316
-
(4,234)
-
973
111
279
-
50,685
3,750
778
-
6,022
8,213
2,725
-
2,755
-
5,571
17,851
8,213
15,760
-
6,845
-
14,331
2,408
1,768
-
6,479
-
5,656
-
50,839
2,408
1,052
-
158
-
1,805
-
6,934
-
2,558
-
118
-
6,930
-
1,904
-
21,459
0
1,620
-
110
-
1,730
0
188,453
14,371		 Total
2023
£
75,000
2,804







)
Total
2024
£
45,250
639
77,804
60,549
4,347
(3,465
1,140
483
45,889
52,990
4,316
(4,234)
1,084
279
63,054
1,707
13,301
4,575
3,304
19,335
54,435
778
14,235
2,725
2,755
5,571
42,222
12,671
5,595
44,305
1,261
3,768
11,378
26,064
15,760
6,845
16,739
1,768
6,479
5,656
78,978
5,440
140
2,152
5,212
3,654
5,141
7,500
4,790
53,247
1,052
158
1,805
6,934
2,558
118
6,930
1,904
34,029
1,560
-
21,459
1,620
110
1,560
1,730
297,647
202,824

21

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

4. Expenditure – Charitable Activities (continued)

4a Charitable expenditure – staff costs

In addition to the many volunteers who give their time to the church, there were 3 employees whose costs are included within the cost categories of “Expenditure – Charitable Activities” above. These figures exclude the amounts paid to the Diocese for the incumbent who is funded through the Common Fund. No employee received emoluments in excess of £60,000 during the year.

4b Charitable expenditure - gifts and grants

To organisations:
A’ Rocha
DEC Ukraine
Caleb Initiative
Church Pastoral Aid Society
St Mark’s
Apple
Interserve
Open Doors
To individuals:		 Unrestricted
Funds
2024
£
-
-
2,400
-
-
-
3,000
-
5,400
171
5,571		 Restricted
Funds
2024
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0		 Total
2024
£		 Total
2023
£
3,209
60
2,400
6,419
100
500
3,000
3,209
-
-
2,400
-
-
-
3,000
-
18,897
438
5,400
171
19,335
5,571

22

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

5. Tangible Fixed Assets

Fixtures,
fittings &
equipment
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024 49,590
Additions -
Disposals -
At 31 December 2024 49,590
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024 37,208
Charge for Year 5,656
Disposals -
At 31 December 2024 42,864
Net Book Value
At 31 December 2024 6,726
At 31 December 2023 12,382

All of the fixed assets are used for charitable purposes.

The PCC had use of the following properties.

Property Property type Ownership
St Mark’s Church, Corner of Moray Road & Tollington Park, N4 3LD Church building Diocese of London
St Mark’s Vicarage, 1 Moray Road, N4 3LD Vicarage Diocese of London
St Mark’s Vicarage Flat, 1A Moray Road, N4 3LD Residential Diocese of London
16 Besant Walk, Andover Estate, London N7 7RG Residential Porters Trust

6. Debtors

Prepayments
Lettings receivable
Gift Aid receivable
Tollington Team Parish
Other		 2024 2023
£
2,943
3,715
3,034
43,202
130
53,024
£
-
-
8,488
9,699
-
18,187

23

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

7. Creditors - Amounts Falling Due Within One Year

7. Creditors - Amounts Falling Due Within One Year
Accruals
Rental deposits
Loan
Trade creditors
Other creditors including taxation and social security		 2024 2023
£ £
1,734 2,248
- 500
4,560 2,280
3,287 21,442
244 1,254
9,825 27,724

The loan is with the Diocese of London. The loan of £9,500, drawn down in 2023, is repayable over 25 months with repayment commencing one year after draw-down. The loan is interest free.

8. Creditors - Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year

Loan 2024 2023
£ £
2,660 7,220

See note on the loan in note 7 above.

9. Restricted Income Funds

9a Current Year
Islington VCS
Children & Youth
Richard Cloudesley Charity:
Live streaming
Church Clock
Building works
South Transept Porch Stonework
West End Repairs
Youth Fun
Focus
Love Your Neighbour
Leadership conference
Porters Trust – Electrical Works
Porters Trust – Falcon Camps
DEC Ukraine		 At 1
January
2024
£
0
0
68
0
250
4,152
0
400
0
100
0
7,594
8,619
20
21,203		 Income
£
Expenditure
£
Tr
3,750
(3,750)
-
-
2,000
(2,000)
-
(153)
6,800
(255)
100
-
3,500
(3,500)
-
-
1,875
(1,367)
-
-
-
(3,346)
-
-
18,025
(14,371)		 Income
£
Expenditure
£
Tr
3,750
(3,750)
-
-
2,000
(2,000)
-
(153)
6,800
(255)
100
-
3,500
(3,500)
-
-
1,875
(1,367)
-
-
-
(3,346)
-
-
18,025
(14,371)		 ansfers
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 At 31
December
2024
£
0
0
68
0
97
10,697
0
500
0
100
508
7,594
5,273
20
0
24,857

24

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

9. Restricted Income Funds (continued)

9b Prior Year
Islington VCS
Richard Cloudesley Charity:
Live streaming
Church Clock
Building works
South Transept Porch Stonework
West End Repairs
Youth Fun
Children & Families
Focus
Love Your Neighbour
Porters Trust - Salaries
Porters Trust – Electrical Works
Porters Trust – Falcon Camps
DEC Ukraine		 At 1
January
2023
£
4,958
68
470
0
0
4,241
0
1,624
0
100
3,082
10,000
7,875
20
32,438		 Income
£
Expenditure
£
Tr
11,250
(16,208)
5,530
(3,531)
-
(470)
250
-
9,500
(5,348)
7,613
(11,854)
400
-
250
(1,874)
5,861
(5,861)
-
-
22,000
(25,082)
-
(2,406)
2,583
(1,839)
60
(60)
65,297
(74,533)		 Income
£
Expenditure
£
Tr
11,250
(16,208)
5,530
(3,531)
-
(470)
250
-
9,500
(5,348)
7,613
(11,854)
400
-
250
(1,874)
5,861
(5,861)
-
-
22,000
(25,082)
-
(2,406)
2,583
(1,839)
60
(60)
65,297
(74,533)		 ansfers
£
-
(1,999)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 At 31
December
2023
£
0
68
0
250
4,152
0
400
0
0
100
0
7,594
8,619
20
(1,999)
21,203

The transfer between restricted and unrestricted funds was to recognise the purchase of capitalised equipment during the year in fulfilment of the restricted funding obligation.

Descriptions of the main restricted funds are as follows:

Islington VCS – represents funds received specifically to fund the position of a Somali youth worker (commenced in 2016). During the year the nature of the grant was changed by Islington VCS Funding to cover the costs of a general youth worker.

Richard Cloudesley Charity – represents various grants to the churches for various projects including maintenance, insurance, computer purchases, building project etc.

Youth Fun – Restricted to youth work games, equipment and refreshments.

Children & Families – represents funds applied for with relation to the support of the staff employed to work with children and families.

Focus – Restricted to provision of communal provision and bursaries for the HTB Network annual gathering.

Love your neighbour – funds received for the purpose of projects responding to local needs and non-proselytising social transformation.

Porters Trust – Salaries – funding restricted to electrical works.

Porters Trust – Electrical – funding restricted to the cost of Operations Manager, Youth Worker, and Worship Pastor. Porters Trust – Falcon Camps – funding restricted to the cost of Falcon Camps

25

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF SAINT MARK, TOLLINGTON PARK

Notes to the Financial Statements For the period ended 31 December 2024

10. Operating Lease Commitments

The total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are payable:

Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than five years		 2024 2023
£ £
422 1,690
- 422
422 2,112

11. Related Party Transactions

The members of the PCC gave a total of £37,455 (2023: £32,422) in unrestricted offerings and donations during the period. Rev Trevor Golding, Vicar until June 2024, was paid £114 as a leaving gift. Amounts totalling £1,784, collected by the PCC on his behalf, were also passed on.

There were no other related party transactions.

26