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2025-12-31-accounts

St Mary the Virgin, East Bergholt Annual Report for 2025

Annual Meeting held on Sunday, 12[th] April 2026 immediately after Morning Service

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St Mary the Virgin, East Bergholt

Incumbent:

Rev Chris Willis The Rectory, Rectory Lane, Brantham, CO11 1PZ revchris@constablebenefice.org / 07566 871270

Bank:

Barclays Bank 1 Princes Street Ipswich IP1 1PN

Register of Charities with the Registered Charity Number 1190273

Independent Examiner Mrs B Evans Rookery Cottage Gaston Street East Bergholt Colchester CO7 6SF

Website: Home | Constable Country Churches Or via A Church near You: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/2067/ Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/stmaryseastbergholt

St Mary’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stmaryseastbergholt2137

THE DATA PROTECTION LEGISLATION PRIVACY NOTICE

The information we hold about you in our Church records is only disclosed to those who need to see it for Church purposes. We will send you information related to the Benefice, the Church, the ministry and activities. If you wish to unsubscribe from all or any communications, please let the Benefice Administrator know at michelle@constablebenefice.org

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Contents

St Mary the Virgin - East Bergholt PCC 2025-2026 ................................................................................................. 4 Rector’s Report ................................................................................................................................................ 5 Electoral Roll .................................................................................................................................................... 8 Proceedings of the East Bergholt PCC .............................................................................................................. 8 Take a Break coffee mornings (‘knit and knatter’) ........................................................................................... 9 Treasurer’s Report for the Year ended 31st December 2025 .......................................................................... 9 Safeguarding .................................................................................................................................................. 12 Samford Deanery Synod & Group Council ..................................................................................................... 12 Churchwardens .............................................................................................................................................. 13 Mothers’ Union .............................................................................................................................................. 14 Bell Ringers ..................................................................................................................................................... 15 Flower Arrangers ............................................................................................................................................ 16 Foundation Governors ................................................................................................................................... 16 East Bergholt Parish Magazine ....................................................................................................................... 17 Open the Book ............................................................................................................................................... 17 Toddlers Group .............................................................................................................................................. 18 Family@church .............................................................................................................................................. 19 Statement of Responsibilities of the Members of the Parochial Church Council .......................................... 20 St Marys East Bergholt 2025 Accounts and Examiners Report ...................................................................... 21

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St Mary the Virgin - East Bergholt PCC 2025-2026 St Mary the Virgin - East Bergholt PCC 2025-2026 St Mary the Virgin - East Bergholt PCC 2025-2026
EX-OFFICIO Rev Chris Willis Rector
Fiona Trott Churchwarden
Jackie Reeves Churchwarden
Sarah Southgate DeanerySynod Rep
Chris Jacob DeanerySynod Rep
KoshyJacob DeanerySynod Rep

ELECTED

ELECTED
TO SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2026 TO SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2027 TO SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2028
LesleyCherry Howard Holdsworth Glen Rowson
Reuben Rushen Marian Godwin Geoff Potter
Victoria Rothwell Vacancy Ewan Darby
Vacancy Vacancy Lisa Darby
PCC Chair Fiona Trott
PCC Vice Chair Jackie Reeves
Minutes Secretary Vacant
PCC Secretary Michelle Jowers
Hon Treasurer LesleyCherry
Deputy Churchwardens LesleyCherry
Chris Jacob
Sarah Southgate
Reuben Rushen
Geoff Potter
Howard Holdsworth
Electoral Roll Officer Fiona Trott
Parish SafeguardingOfficer Howard Holdsworth
StandingCommittee(Chair) Rev Chris Willis
StandingCommittee(Minute Sec) Vacant
StandingCommittee(Treasurer) LesleyCherry
Standing Committee (Wardens) Fiona Trott
Jackie Reeves
StandingCommittee Reuben Rushen
Health and Safety Sarah Southgate
Lettice Dykes Simon Rothwell
Reuben Rushen
Gill Rattray
Preservation Society Fiona Trott
Sarah Southgate
Foundation Governor Simon Rothwell
Magazine Committee John Gamlin
Geoff Potter
LesleyCherry
Ecumenical Committee DorothyBrundell
Chris Jacob
Captain of Bells TerryEagle

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Rector’s Report

The Scope and purpose of this Rectors report:

To provide an overview of the key areas of developmental activity in the Rector’s ministry over the last year and to provide an indication of areas of ministry, which may be the focus of the following year.

This report does not cover occasional offices, services, ongoing pastoral provision or other areas of ministry which are already routinely embedded in the life of the church and responsibilities of the Rector, unless there is a new developmental aspect.

The backdrop of the report keeps the Diocesan missional initiative called ‘Growing in God ’ in mind. Growing in God has four main objectives – that we as a church should be:

Introduction:

I write this report as we finally become Constable Country Benefice, which came into being on Sunday, 1[st] March this year, and I feel very privileged to be the first Rector of this new Benefice.

I am mindful, with the likelihood that this will be my first and only incumbency, that being the first Rector of the new Benefice places me in a time of transition and adjustment for all, with a particular responsibility to help prepare us for the future and looking beyond my time as Rector.

Therefore, it is my hope and very much my ongoing prayer that my time serving you will be marked by a sense of our preparedness for the future, with the longing to see each parish thrive in its own right, whilst embracing all the benefits of working together as a Benefice; pooling our resources and giftings as appropriate, and blessing each other with the unique giftings which each parish has to offer to the other three.

This report does not mention by name the many who in all four parishes serve selflessly and with incredible generosity of time, enthusiasm and commitment. They are indeed many, and I am deeply grateful to all who contribute so much in so many varying ways. Indeed, for me the highlights of this last year have been the continued commitment to working in unity between the four parishes, the collegiality of the Wardens and wider Ministry Team, including Lay Elders, Clergy and Readers, and the many others who give so much of their time, some seen, and some who silently serve faithfully behind the scenes.

I have said before and think it worth repeating, that the ‘Profile’ I read during the previous vacancy which invited applications to become Rector, the post to which I was appointed, was true to itself in every way. This really is a Benefice which is committed to unity and working in partnership, which has been a massive blessing to both Rachel and I as we have grown in relationship with you all, and something I thank God for, praying for its continuation.

So, this report concludes with a look to the future. But I begin with a reflection on our corporate worship.

Worship:

Having reached this two-year milestone (since joining you), I think it may be a timely moment to assure you all of my continued commitment to see each Parish thrive. I believe that aspiration is best realised by having a span of worship styles, varying between the Book of Common Prayer, to liturgical services with sung liturgy, through to more contemporary worship, and the growing imperative to make church accessible to children, youth and families.

I genuinely believe that it is vital that whatever we do, whether it be robed liturgical services, contemporary worship, more traditional organ accompanied chorally led worship, or a music group with guitars and drums; what really matters is that Jesus is the very centre and focus.

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I have so appreciated the commitment of so many to meeting together as a Benefice. Firstly, at our monthly Connect Services, and more recently at out fifth Sunday Benefice Communion services. The first being a mix of liturgical and contemporary, and the other traditional. I praise God that we can do both and warmly encourage everyone to join for both forms of worship. What is key, is that we are in unity – and loving each other even when the style may not be our personal preference.

But there have been two primary developments in the last year where I have felt led to focus additional time. Firstly, the ongoing development of the twice monthly ‘Gathering’ – a contemporary evening service, which although begun just prior to the previous APCM, has been largely developed in the last year. This service offers the opportunity to worship using a more relaxed musical feel, with modern worship songs and traditional hymns delivered by a music group, vocally led, with solid bible teaching, prayer and fellowship in an informal setting. The Gathering has proven to be very popular with many.

At the other end of the worship spectrum, I am delighted that we have begun and continue to slowly develop the ‘fifth Sunday’ Benefice Communion services, being a more traditional liturgical and robed service. I hope this shall become chorally led, as the new Benefice Choir , which I am so pleased we now have, hopefully leads our sung worship. I am also very much looking forward to the introduction of some beautiful sung liturgy from David Thornes’ ‘The Mass of St. Thomas’ in these services.

Pastoral care:

With four parishes and one Rector, it is inevitably a challenge to provide a good level of pastoral care to all without having a clear plan of action in place.

Historically, it is not so long ago that there were four full-time clergy - one for each parish. Just three years ago, Brantham and East Bergholt had one Rector between them. Now with four Parishes, there is a need to adapt and find new ways of doing things, and the provision of pastoral care is very much one of those areas.

I continue to provide pastoral care and visits, including to hospital, but it is honest to acknowledge that with four parishes it is not possible to be ‘the one person’ who provides all visits - as much as I would love to be able to achieve that. But my ongoing determination is that all in the church family, in whichever parish, will remain loved and cared for in our changing circumstances.

I am immensely grateful therefore to all those who provide care and love and support for the church family in so many ways. Indeed, such love is not, nor should be the exclusive domain of the minister. But I am particularly grateful to others who, being part of the ongoing development of a ‘pastoral care team’, are offering organised home visits, home communion and care to those who either cannot any longer attend church services, or who may benefit from assistance to do so. This is very much an ongoing and developing team, and I think vital to ensuring all in our church family are loved and supported.

Schools:

I have the wonderful privilege of being able to spend time in every school in the Benefice. Three of our primary schools – Bentley, Tattingstone and East Bergholt – are Church of England Voluntary Controlled schools and I have the joy of leading faith assemblies in each at least once a month, using what I call a ‘tell it - show it - sing it’ model. Normally this means telling a Bible story, using pictures on a screen as I tell the narrative, or an illustration to help children grasp the key point. Then we sing a song, either using a video or normally me playing the guitar. These are wonderful occasions and the enthusiasm and engagement from the children is such a joy to experience.

We also have a good relationship with Brooklands School, Brantham and I am able to lead an assembly or church service several time a year for the school – both are such a privilege.

And then there is the East Bergholt High School. It was incredible to be invited, for the second year, to take a week of assemblies for the school before Christmas – helping the pupils and staff think about Christmas through the eyes of Mary – the mother of Jesus. Again, I used a ‘tell it, show it, sing it’, approach. Yes , you read right! I sang with the guitar to each assembly to teenagers! wonderfully aided by Len Smith, who had put together a storyboard of projected images to reflect the lyrics of the song. The response from staff and pupils was highly positive, and again what a massive privilege that was.

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Youth:

Continuing in the theme of young people – the small but committed group of half a dozen teenagers – ‘Connect Youth Group’ - continue to meet weekly at the Rectory, now led by Rachel and myself, releasing Len & Izzy Smith to focus their attention on the forming of a new group for 10–12-year-olds – called the ‘Moving up Club’ . At this time, seven young people are in that group, and it is my heart that we shall develop this work further providing continuous age focused youth provision from age 10-18 years – and student support beyond that. This is very much a work in progress and a key element of focus for the future of the Benefice.

Alpha:

Alpha is in my view a brilliantly compiled course, using high quality videos, with real human stories grappling with real human questions of life, death, suffering, faith and whether there is a God, and if so, what is God like?

In the last year we have concluded three Alpha Courses, with 17 people completing the course to date. It is hoped to run another course over the summer.

Month of Prayer:

In January we had a month of Prayer – with opportunities to meet for prayer with others, Monday to Saturday for four weeks – with Wednesday nights taking the form of a prayer workshop – looking at different methods and aspects of prayer, encouraging us to be a prayerful people, believing that without such prayer our mission to reach those whom do not have a Christian faith with the good news of Jesus will be restricted. We hope to repeat this month of prayer – but following review and reflection it is likely to be in May rather than January next year.

Safeguarding:

Safeguarding is and shall remain a top priority for us as Benefice. Caring for and protecting each other, especially the young and vulnerable, shall always be a priority, and a direct demonstration of Christlike love for one another.

The devastation that abuse can create in lives, can be so catastrophic for those abused and those close to them, that the response to those previously hurt is to ensure they are loved and can find a place of safety and healing. The prevention of such hurt to others needs to be, and must always remain, central in our culture and church life.

To support this, each Parish has a Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO), who take the lead at a parish level in ensuring our training is up to date for key people; providing a first point of confidential contact for any safeguarding concerns and the responsibility for ensuring any safeguarding concern is appropriately referred where appropriate. They also act as a watchdog – to ensure all we do at a parish level has safeguarding at the core.

As Rector, ultimately responsible for safeguarding in the Benefice, I have in the last year begun a termly meeting with the PSO’s and we have together begun to streamline the processes for managing the administration of safeguarding training needs, allowing the PSO’s to be more focused on prevention, rather than administration.

Future :

Recently the Wardens from all four parishes and I met at a ‘half day away’ and prayerfully considered a ‘Growing in God’ five-year plan , seeking to identify ‘three main priorities’ which we as a Benefice can focus upon.

The next year will be key to begin to develop a detailed plan around each of these broad ‘Priorities’. They were agreed as:

  1. To make our services welcoming and inviting to all – but particularly young families – recognising the need to grow younger and provide a way into the church for a significant group in our communities.

  2. Develop a quality Benefice Website – conscious that many will access a website before walking through the church door – and wanting that website to also be a resource for the church family and beyond.

  3. Increase our service leadership – in order that we are ready for the changing future, and mindful that none of us are getting any younger!

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Whilst these are the ‘Main Themes’, there will be more specific strands of action developed in the coming months, a process which I fully hope every church member, Wardens, PCC’s, and all regular worshippers shall have an opportunity to contribute towards.

May I leave you with a prayer which certainly reflects my heart as Rector, and I invite you to make this your prayer too.

Prayer for the future:

‘Lord, guide us all to spend our time and energy on the things which are important to you. Deliver us from our own good ideas and instead show us your plans. Give us the wisdom to know the difference, and the grace to walk in them’. Amen

God bless you all

Rev. Chris Willis Rector, Constable Country Benefice

Electoral Roll

Precise details of numbers on this year’s Electoral Roll were shared at the APCM.

Fiona Trott Electoral Roll Officer

Proceedings of the East Bergholt PCC

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) met six times in 2025. Topics covered during the meetings included service planning and feedback, patterns of worship and sorting the problems with servicing the boiler. The fabric of the church was addressed by organising repairs to the Lady Chapel and north Chancel roof, and of course the Lottery building project dominated a lot of the proceedings. Special workshops were held with the Lottery Interpretation and Activity Planner and two Lottery PCC subgroups were formed – Buildings and Activities. Emma Browne, the Project Coordinator, attended several meetings to update members on progress. Broadband access to the church was upgraded to assure stable internet connection within St Mary’s.

There are still vacancies for a Minutes Secretary and three members/trustees on the PCC (two for one year, and one for three). It is important to try and fill all these vacancies so that PCC can operate fully and there are enough members to support the work of the church, the wardens and Rev Chris. Please pray that these spaces can be filled in the coming year and if you feel called to serve, speak to a warden.

Jackie Reeves and Fiona Trott

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Take a Break coffee mornings (‘knit and knatter’)

Take a Break Coffee Mornings (also known as Knit and Knatter) continues to run on the first Wednesday of the month, apart from August, supported by a small team of volunteers.

People attending the communion service prior to the coffee morning tend to come along afterwards for a coffee and chat with a few members of the community also coming, as well as passers by who see the ‘coffee morning’ signs outside the church.

Next year we hope to increase the footfall and encourage more visitors by regular publicity and offering board games and puzzles. Please help us spread the word amongst your friends and neighbours.

Sue Basted

Treasurer’s Report for the Year ended 31st December 2025

Overall Financial Position

The PCC recorded total incoming resources of £361,913 during the year (2024: £109,862), with total expenditure of £227,377 (2024: £105,047), resulting in a net surplus of £134,536 (2024: £4,815).

This significant increase in income reflects major grant funding and donations received in relation to the church’s building projects, particularly our roof project works. Expenditure has also increased correspondingly as project activity progressed during the year.

Due to the impact of these increases in income, we are no longer permitted to prepare our accounts on a receipts and payments basis as our income exceeds the £250,000 threshold. This year the accounts are prepared on an accruals basis as required by the Statement of Recommended Practice (FRS102) and a reconciliation note for the translation of previous year’s figures to this basis is included within the notes to the accounts.

At 31 December 2025, the PCC held total funds of £467,887 (2024: £333,351), comprising of restricted funds £153,360 (2024: £18,500), endowment funds £267,480 (2024: £272,649) and unrestricted funds £47,047 (2024: £42,202). Of these unrestricted funds, £5,022 (2024: 9,716) are held as general funds available for use by the charity for its general purposes.

Income

Total income increased substantially by £252,051 to £361,913, driven primarily by significant grant funding for the both the repairs works needed to the building during the year including being awarded a grant for our Securing the Future of St Marys: Roof Project by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

We were successful in our application for a £199,460 grant to fund the development stage of our roof repair and re-ordering project. This phase will occur throughout 2025 – 2027 and we are grateful to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting us throughout this developmental work. We received the first instalment of £99,730 at the start of the project in early 2025 and the balance is recognised as accrued income in accordance with SORP requirements. We are extremely grateful to Lisa Darby for taking responsibility for recording and the financial reporting of this fund. Whilst the money is still administered by me, Lisa has control of the budget, cashflow and payroll.

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St Marys Preservation Society donated funds towards the major repair work to the Lady Chapel and Chancel roof, which was completed in 2025. This support continues to be invaluable to keep out beautiful grade 1 listed church in good repair. The PCC is extremely grateful for this support. This is a separate charity and is not connected to or run by East Bergholt PCC.

East Bergholt Parish Council donated a sum of money towards supporting families in the village suffering hardship in the current economic climate. The new Hardship fund is given out in the form of Co-op vouchers, as that is the local shop, and administered by the Head of the primary school, who can see firsthand who needs support in this way. This also protects the privacy of the families concerned.

The church also received congregational donations during the year to specifically fund repairs to the boiler and to resource the equipment in use in our regular services.

Expenditure

Total expenditure rose by £122,331 to £227,377, reflecting the significant project expenditure of on the Roof Fund Development phase and on the Chancel Roof and boiler repair. The parish share continues to be our largest single regular operational outgoing, which was reduced this year as a result of the timing of the urgent boiler repair costs which impacted last few months of 2025.

Magazine

Within the income and expenditure figures are the operational turnover and costs of the Parish Magazine which is managed through a designated fund with a separate bank account. The magazine has turned a profit once again this year which resulted in a total of £2,000 being transferred to the General Fund. The PCC is extremely grateful for all the hard work undertaken by the Magazine Committee. The year-end balance of just under £2,000 was slightly down on 2024, mainly due to timings on receipts for advertising costs. The number of copies circulated has been increased due to the new housing in the village which has resulted in slightly increased printing costs. The committee is facing issues over finding new people willing to deliver the magazines and are looking to recruit, especially from the new houses, so the expanding village can be accommodated by deliveries of the parish magazine. No monies are transferred to the General Fund without consulting the Magazine Committee.

Fund Movements

Unrestricted Funds

Unrestricted funds increased from £42,202 to £47,047. However, general (free) reserves reduced to £5,022 (2024: £9,716), reflecting transfers to designated funds and support for project activity.

Restricted Funds

Restricted funds increased significantly from £18,500 to £153,360, largely due to:

Endowment Funds

Endowment funds decreased slightly from £272,649 to £267,480, reflecting market value reductions. These funds remain invested and are held as capital in accordance with donor intentions.

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Assets and Liabilities

Net assets increased to £467,887, comprising:

The increase in debtors reflects SORP-compliant recognition of grant income earned but not yet received.

Reserves Policy

The PCC aims to maintain sufficient unrestricted reserves to ensure continuity of ministry and to manage unforeseen expenditure. The PCC reserve policy is to keep £5,000 in the account at all times free from restrictions. This year we ended the year slightly over this figure despite the costs on the Chancel Roof repair and Boiler so close to the year end. After considering all designated and restricted funds, the monies that are free for use in the general fund stand at £5,022 (2024: £5,700).

Going Concern

The PCC has considered its financial position for at least twelve months from the date of approval of the accounts.

The PCC is satisfied that:

Accordingly, the accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis.

Financial Outlook

The financial results for 2025 reflect a year of significant transition, with the PCC managing substantial grantfunded capital projects and urgent repair works, alongside ongoing ministry.

Key considerations for the forthcoming year include:

Conclusion

Once again, this year as treasurer, has not been without its challenges. I would like to offer my sincere and grateful thanks to Fiona Trott and Jackie Reeves, who have been unfailing in their help and support. Also, to the PCC, who have taken difficult decisions during another problematic year for church finances.

Lesley Cherry

Hon Treasurer

East Bergholt Parochial Church Council

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Safeguarding

There have been no instances of Safeguarding issues reported in the last 12 months at St. Mary’s. Sadly, a Basic Awareness course scheduled for September at St. Mary’s had to be cancelled due to a lack of numbers. This was disappointing. On the positive side a large number of folk have enhanced their standing by taking advanced courses, including 4 people taking the Domestic Abuse course, which, although quite harrowing, has been beneficial. 7 people have become fully compliant by retaking different levels online and an additional 6 people have had their DBS updated. I have to offer my sincere thanks to Fiona here for aiding me by helping folk to complete some of these as I was unavailable.

Although Safeguarding should be at the forefront of our thinking in anything that we do, it was pleasing to have the opportunity to share some thoughts and prayers on the National Safeguarding Sunday in November.

In September 2026, no fewer than 19 folk will have to retake their Foundation course as you only remain compliant for three years. Following the resignation of Rick Peat, one of the pair of Suffolk training leaders in October, no candidates have come forward to replace him. The result of this is that the number of face-to-face courses has been drastically reduced and the Diocese is only able to show plans for a three-month period rather than having a structure in place for the ensuing twelve months. The likelihood of us having the chance to host a Foundation course for invited churches and us is therefore somewhat remote. Although this is not insurmountable, it will cause many headaches later in the year.

I shall close by saying that Rev Chris has asked for the 4 Benefice Safeguarding Officers to assist in collating their information so that we have a single Benefice spreadsheet for easier reference. It is hoped that this will be completed by the end of April.

Howard Holdsworth

Parish Safeguarding Officer

Samford Deanery Synod & Group Council

St Michael's is represented by Julie Fermor and Gill Forsyth.

Jenny Seggar is our Rural Dean and Sally Letman Assistant Rural Dean. Jeanette Appleton is the Deanery's Lay representative on General Synod and provides in person or written reports of relevant General Synod gatherings as appropriate.

13[th] March 2025, All Saints Church, Holbrook - The speaker at this evening's meeting was Sally Letman, telling us of her recent trip to India to see the work of New Dawn India, a charity established by trustees in Capel St Mary. New Dawn supplies fund for Vidiyal (Tamil for ‘a New Dawn’) which works with street and slum children and their families. The charity operates a child sponsorship programme which has wider benefits for the sponsored child's family and community. Sally was able to meet her sponsored child and her family. More information about the charity is at www.newdawnindia.org.

The business part of the meeting included an update from Jenny Seggar, Rural Dean, on the need to update the deanery plan. This was important as it would feed into discussions should there be any future archdeaconry reorganisation, to spread the workload more evenly between Hadleigh, Ipswich and Samford deaneries. The annual wedding preparation event was held on Saturday 1[st] February and, as ever, was well received and appreciated by the couples attending.

18[th] June 2025 at St Mary’s, Capel St Mary - The Speakers at this evening’s meeting were Katie de Bourcier, Diocesan Mission Enabler and Revd Natalie West, Suffolk Archdeaconry Mission Enabler.

Natalie sees her role within the deanery as including:

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Archdeacon’s Visitation - This service took place on 23 June at Holbrook Church including Revd Sally Letman’s licensing as Assistant Rural Dean.

7[th] October 2025 at St Michael’s, Woolverstone - At this meeting we heard updates from around the Deanery. It was encouraging and informative to hear of the challenges and opportunities within each benefice. Rev Chris gave the update on behalf of Constable Country Benefice.

Gill Forsyth and Julie Fermor - St Michael’s Brantham Deanery reps

Churchwardens

Another year full of action, drama and plate spinning! Not many dull moments as regular church activities were juggled with keeping the Lottery project on track.

2025 was the year for celebrating 500 years since building the church tower stopped. Tower 500 was launched in April and involved the school walking the inaugural sponsored walk 500 times around the churchyard after their Easter service. In June, the churchyard was transformed into a Fayre with Tudor visitors and historical dancers; our bellringers embraced the spirit by ringing 500 rounds over two sessions. Inside, the church was richly decorated with floral tributes to our Tudor ancestors. On the Friday evening East Bergholt Dramatic Society entertained us with a Tudor drama. 500-piece jigsaws were available to borrow, and the Primary School pupils had a drawing competition to imagine what the church tower would look like finished. In December we held the inaugural Towering Tree Festival and had a church stall at the village Christmas market. Lots of individuals and organisations imaginatively decorated Christmas trees on display in church and there were plenty of activities for visitors to engage with.

Fellowship is always best served with food – and this year has been no exception. The men’s breakfasts every other month have attracted a steady number of people who have been entertained by a variety of great speakers. Soup was served during Lent at weekly lunches with seasonal reflections. Cake has also featured heavily after services, at house groups and at Lottery meetings – we have gained quite a reputation!

In addition to Tower 500 events, St Mary’s has also hosted the Orwell Singers and Joanna Eden jazz quartet during the year. Both evenings were well attended and very much enjoyed.

In terms of our own church music, after 10 years as Director of Music, we said goodbye to Martin Huggett in November. Martin led our church choir and played the organ at countless Sunday services; he conducted regular special services at Christmas and Easter and latterly he played Music for Reflection. He also supported the church by giving several fundraising concerts and we were very grateful to him for his musical contribution to the life of the church. Whilst we take time to reflect on what the future of choral musical tradition of St Mary’s looks like, we are extremely grateful to those organists who have stepped in to play at our Sunday services and in particular Julian Merson who led the choir at the Carol Service in December.

2025 has also been a significant year in the major roof repair and internal reordering project. Having been successful in obtaining a preliminary Heritage Fund grant, at the end of 2024, we started the year employing specialist consultants as required by the Lottery. Our first appointment was the all-important and vital post of Project Coordinator. Emma Browne has worked diligently all year on our behalf. Her attention to detail and tenacity to get things done has been incredible and we could not have managed to achieve what we have done this year without her. Michael Garber, our church architect, has also been appointed as the project architect and he has assembled a design team of mechanical and structural engineers, quantity surveyors and conservation experts. We have also been blessed with a very enthusiastic activity consultant, Alix Slater, who has been into both village schools, with Emma, and spoken to many residents and local organisations. These

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posts have all been funded by the initial Lottery grant. We have had to produce copious documents and budgets for the Lottery and also the Diocese, who must approve our plans too. A public consultation was held in September and in October we met with all the public consultees, like the Churches Building Council, Victorian Society and Historic England. There will be two crucial meetings in February 2026 when we hope to have given the Diocese enough information for them to approve the required Faculty permission for the work to be done, and we also meet with the Lottery investment managers who will hopefully approve our plans and invite us to bid in May for the big delivery phase grant during which time the actual building work will be undertaken. There are no guarantees, so please pray that all the hard work plays off. God has definitely had a hand in this project, guiding the right people to come forward at the appropriate time – we feel very blessed.

Outside of the Lottery scope, during the year, we have also applied for a minor building grant from the National Church to repair the north Chancel roof, and we have been very grateful to St Mary’s East Bergholt Preservation Society for providing financial support for repairs to the Lady Chapel. As you are all aware the saga of the boiler has rumbled on, and at the year end, it is still not functioning entirely properly but is a lot healthier than at the start. Hopefully it will be fully fixed before the spring. In the meantime, space heaters, lovingly known as the Dragons, have been used to boost the temperature ahead of services and events.

Whilst legally still not a benefice of four parishes, we have continued to work extremely well with our fellow churchwardens in the other churches. We support one another and collaborate well as a team to support Chris in his ministry. Church life is always about teamwork, and the support from the dedicated deputy churchwardens and plenty of others behind the scenes during the year has made the church run as best as it can and we are truly grateful!

Jackie Reeves and Fiona Trott Churchwardens.

Mothers’ Union

Mothers’ Union is about supporting marriage and family life and being part of a worldwide fellowship of over 4 million members. In 2025 we welcomed three new MU branch Friends and two new MU branch Members. Our branch has now grown to 30 people. This is a great achievement as the branch had only 18 members just eight years ago.

Through a range of activities and outreach programmes members of our branch have reached out and made a positive difference in the lives of over 902 people, here in our parishes as well as across the diocese. Whether it was by the various craft activities we undertook, including the very successful Christmas card workshop making Christmas cards for prisoners in HMP Highpoint; or the items we donated to the Women’s refuge in Ipswich, Hadleigh care home, Ipswich hospital and the Seafarer’s mission.

We had ten monthly meetings in 2025 when we enjoyed fellowship, worship and learnt much from those who came to speak to us. We also had fund raising events including our Lent Lunch and Afternoon tea, which enabled us to send funds to support overseas projects such as the Literacy project.

Mothers’ Union members are also people of prayer and joined with members across the diocese on Lady Day for a service in St Edmunds cathedral. We join our worldwide members during our daily midday prayers and in the month of July for our Wave of Prayer.

2026 will be the 150th anniversary of the founding of Mothers’ Union, a time to celebrate all that has been achieved so far and to look forward to another 150 years of providing Christian care to families.

Janet Bull, Jenny Chapman, Chris Jacobs, Wendy Withers Grace Wallis East Bergholt and Brantham Mothers’ Union

14

Bell Ringers

This report covers 12 months from January to December 2025. It contains the information as specified in the Ringers’ handbook.

Named ringers

Named ringers
Ringer Attendances Ringer Attendances
TerryEagle(Captain) 80 Martin Digby 40
Julia Smith(Vice Captain) 82 George Harris 33
Thomas Bryant 31 Rachel Lewis 73
Neil Culham 68 Steve Feeney 66
Alison Ruffell 10*

*Noted that this is below the minimum number of rings per year for insurance purposes. Alison has been reminded that she needs to attend at least 12 times per year.

Approved Learners

Approved Learners
Ringer Attendances Notes
Keith Durrant 14 Left in June 2025
Kate Stannett 59

Ringing has been consistent through the year with the majority of ringers having a number of years’ experience now. The new ringer, Keith Durrant left in June 2025 due to health reasons but Kate Stannett is a new learner and is progressing well. She managed to get to ring with the full set of bells before practice finished and now rings in between the two main rings on a Sunday to keep in practice. Sadly, our youngest but one of the more experienced ringers, Thomas Bryant, has moved away but will still be covered for ringing next year when he comes back to visit.

There were no changes to the handbook in this year.

We have a regular band of eight ringers so have managed to complete the majority of rings this year with all five bells, which we are very pleased about. We also started teaching the newer ringers to do ‘1 round’ and hope to progress to a ‘2 round’ in 2026. We have space for another new learner or two.

During the current year, we have rung for two weddings; two demonstrations for the village Tower 500 event where we did two sets of 250 rounds; the 80[th] anniversary of VE-Day; a half-muffled ring for Remembrance and the usual rings at Christmas and New Year.

Issues dealt with in 2025

  1. Pigeons nested inside the roof again. Nests were removed. This requires ongoing monitoring.

  2. Tiles on the roof were replaced as some broken ones have fallen off

  3. Door lock sometimes stiff in wet weather – this is ongoing

Issues outstanding

  1. Bulb to be replaced in the spotlight above no 3 bell.

  2. Gutters to be cleared, especially at the back of the cage bordering the allotments

  3. Louvre to be repaired.

  4. Lock to be removed, cleaned and repositioned.

  5. General clean and tidy of the bell cage.

Terry Eagle

15

Captain of Bells

Flower Arrangers

2025 started out with planning for the Tower 500 festival in June which was to be the focus of the year for the flower arrangers. Considerable time and effort were expended in preparation for the Tudor themed flower festival in June. There were a wide variety of displays produced representing various aspects of life in Tudor times including jousting, Tudor costume, food and drink and the textile industry. In spite of extremely hot weather the flowers held up well and were enjoyed by many visitors both during the festival and on subsequent days. The Patronal day followed closely at the beginning of July; arrangements for this were minimal given that the ladies had spent so much time on the Tudor 500 celebrations, but the entire Church was decorated for Easter, Harvest, Remembrance and Christmas as is usual. Once again, the ladies made wreaths to take home when we decorated for Advent.

The Tudor 500 festival was a bit early in the year for the allotment to have produced usable flowers, but we were able to source some locally grown blooms from Ardleigh and will continue to use this grower for future festivals. The allotment plot is partly shaded which is not ideal for flower production; we are on the waiting list for a plot with better aspect which will enable us to grow more/wider range of flowers. The shrubs that we planted on our existing plot are maturing well and provide foliage to supplement what the arrangers can gather from their gardens.

We have been interested in the Sustainable Church Flowers movement www.suschurchflowers.com which was boosted, in February 2026, by the General Synod encouraging Churches and Cathedrals to explore ways of arranging flowers that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible. Whilst we have made good progress towards this, we can do more and will continue to encourage the use of traditional mechanics instead of floral foam. Locally produced/garden flowers are encouraged in preference to supermarket flowers (grown not flown) and we continue to make good use of our stock of artificial flowers which can be very effective. Further improvement for 2026 can be achieved by developing the allotment and facilitating the composting of our degradable flower waste

The main focus of 2026 will be the Constable 250 celebrations, and we propose to mark his birthday in June by decorating the church using garden/hedgerow flowers and sustainable mechanics. There will also be ‘Constable’ artwork produced by a variety of East Bergholt organisations representing the entire village from the youngest to the oldest!

Finally, 2025 was the year that one of our longest standing flower arrangers decided to step down. We miss Jean who was very adept and produced fantastic arrangements – the parish chest will also miss her!

Rachael Lewis

On behalf of the Flower arrangers

Foundation Governors

‘I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.’ John 10:10

East Bergholt CEVC Primary School continues to live out its Christian vision of enabling every child to flourish and ‘live life in all its fullness.’ The vision is not simply a statement, but the driving force behind decision-making, relationships and curriculum development across the school.

Our strong partnership with St Mary the Virgin Church remains central to our identity as a Church of England school. Reverend Chris plays an important role in the spiritual life of the school, leading worship in church and in school, and supporting key services including Harvest, Remembrance and Christmas. Ruth Bull and Nick Pavitt also contribute regularly to collective worship, strengthening the relationship between church and school.

16

Ruth brings in a dedicated Open the Book team who lead engaging, interactive assemblies. Through storytelling and drama, pupils encounter Bible narratives in accessible and memorable ways. These sessions support pupils’ growing understanding of Christian teachings and help them reflect on how biblical values such as compassion, forgiveness and justice shape daily life. Collective worship continues to provide invitational opportunities for prayer, reflection and spiritual development.

The school’s Christian vision underpins its inclusive culture. Leaders are intentional in ensuring that every child is known, valued and treated with dignity. Through values-led learning and programmes such as No Outsiders, pupils are supported to understand difference, challenge injustice and develop respect for all. This reflects the school’s commitment to enabling pupils to become thoughtful, courageous and compassionate members of society.

A broad and enriching curriculum further supports pupils’ flourishing. Opportunities in sport, music, leadership and community events develop confidence, responsibility and joy in learning. Governors continue to monitor how effectively the vision shapes policy, provision and outcomes, ensuring that Christian distinctiveness remains at the heart of school improvement.

We give thanks for the dedication of staff, the support of families and the partnership with the church community as the school continues to grow as a nurturing and aspirational Church school.

Report compiled by Clare Sampson (Headteacher)

East Bergholt Parish Magazine

The monthly parish magazine continues to provide a wide picture of East Bergholt life for all residents - longestablished or new, churchgoers or not. As well as news from St. Mary’s and other local churches, and a calendar of benefice services for the month, it includes updates from local sporting, cultural, community and government organisations, and local information listings. During 2025 we welcomed several new contributors, some regular and some one-off; we also increased our use of pictures. We will be looking at further enhancements to the magazine’s content during 2026.

Production is funded by advertising; printing is by far the biggest cost. Both costs and revenues remain essentially stable, and we were able to transfer £2,000 to St. Mary’s general funds in 2025.

Also during 2025, there were important changes in magazine distribution. Jilly Girdwood joined us as our new distribution manager, taking over from Marion Ralph the vital task of coordinating the many volunteers who deliver the magazine to letterboxes. Our thanks to Marion for her years of service in this demanding role. We also increased the total number of copies distributed each month by about 100 to a new total of around 1,400. This reflects the growth in village households because of the new developments, and the number is likely to increase further.

Barnaby Page – Editor

Open the Book

The Open the Book team took a number of stories into the Primary School in East Bergholt this year where we were welcomed by Clare Sampson and her staff.

The team currently comprises 9 regulars with the current churchwardens standing in the wings if needed, making a total of 11.

17

We know this is a popular assembly with the children who seem to get a lot of enjoyment from our acting skills and our (amazing) costumes. The children also really enjoy joining in when the story lends itself to them acting in it as well. We start with the Open the Book song which is played through the audio system. Children join in with this as they enter the hall. The story is read directly out of the book and acted with as much vim and vigour as we can manage. At the end of the story there is a scripted reflection and prayer which the pupils are invited to make their own by saying ‘Amen’ at the end.

During 2025, we told the stories of:

Tabernacle and Spies (story 19) – Joshua and Caleb suss out the land of milk and honey Arrest and trial (story 76) – Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane Jonah – (story 38) Esther (story 45) Pentecost (story 82) The Widow’s mite (story 73) David and Goliath – (story 29)

Rebellion – (Story 2) – Adam and Eve eat from the tree of the knowledge of Good and Evil – pictured here! If you are good at making props or handy with a sewing machine and would like to be involved with costumes etc – please let us know!

Ruth Bull (Team leader), Dianne Willett, Wendy Withers, Richard Appleton, Chris Jacob, Susan Shepherd, Rev Roy Seden, Rev Chris Willis, Angela Edwards

Toddlers Group

We have enjoyed another successful year with the group being regularly offered on a weekly basis. We have welcomed many new families to the group and some of these families have found the group a great way to make new friends, especially if they have been new to the area. We are very grateful to the East Bergholt Parish Council for their continued financial support, which has been used to help with heating and running costs, and to help with the cost of our 3 annual events, the Easter Egg hunt, the Teddy Bear’s picnic, and the Christmas Party.

This year our Teddy Bear’s picnic was on location in the Rectory Garden. We had a beautifully sunny day, and it was very well attended. We are grateful to Chris and Rachel for allowing us to use their garden. The children enjoyed a treasure hunt, a picnic and we finished with songs accompanied by Rev Chris and his guitar. The Christmas party was also well attended, and we are grateful to all those who helped with the delicious party food and of course to Mother Christmas (aka Chris Jacob) who handed out small gifts to the children at the end of the party.

This year we welcomed 2 new helpers Angela and John Edwards. Gill, Gina and myself are still regular helpers, and Sarah Southgate has stepped in to help when needed. Rev Chris has regularly attended the group, and the children have enjoyed singing and dancing to the songs Chris has played on his guitar. The music has been a great addition to our group, and we are grateful to Chris for supporting us in this way.

I would like to thank all helpers at the Group. We try to have 3 helpers at each session, but this has sometimes not been possible. Gina has kindly offered her services each week and Gill and I alternate weeks with Angela and John joining a few of our sessions too, initially to learn the ropes. We hope they will be helping at a few more sessions in 2026. We are a great team, and I am very grateful for all the support that has been given and look forward to working with everyone in 2026.

As our village grows, the baby and toddler group will hopefully grow with it and will continue to offer a safe and friendly environment for children to play, and carers to meet. We all feel this is a very important part of our

18

Church ministry, and hope that anyone who visits the group will leave feeling the love of God, and they are very much a part of our church life.

Liz Digby - Leader

Family@church

The continuing growth and development of this important mission is a great blessing. However it still needs to be prayed about, to ensure that we are offering appropriate ways for families to worship – both in terms of format and time – and to welcome those moving into the village on the new housing developments.

Our numbers have remained fairly constant. We have made more use of the West End meeting room this year, and now meet each month and enjoyed the flexible seating of being able to sit in a round. We have welcomed new families moving into the village but have ‘lost’ some of the families who have regularly been coming for a number of years but whose children are now older. We are pleased that the Moving Up club is starting in the new year and hope that we will become a feeder group for them. We are very grateful for the core families who come regularly – despite the increasing calls on family time at the weekend. We encourage the children to write their own or read a prayer, and there are a core of children who like to do this regularly. There have been the usual blend of singing, activities, stories and prayers, which includes our family@church sorry song. Each service we finish with a scrummy tea.

None of these services would be possible without a lot of support from a wonderful team of helpers. We are very grateful to everyone who has lent a hand this year: Gill, Gina and Karen who have given invaluable help setting up for services, welcoming our families and helping with activities and storytelling. We have continued to give the children booklets at Easter and Christmas, together with the eggs and advent calendars and we are grateful to Rev Chris for playing his guitar and teaching us new songs! Thank you!

Liz Digby and Fiona Trott

In planning the activities the PCC have applied the guidance on public benefit issued by the Charity Commission.

19

Statement of Responsibilities of the Members of the Parochial Church Council

Charity law requires the PCC to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of the affairs of the charity as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources for the financial year. In preparing these financial statements, the PCC are required to:

  1. select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;

  2. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;

  3. make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

  4. state whether the applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and

  5. prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.

The PCC is responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Approval

This report was approved by the PCC and signed on their behalf by:

Fiona Trott

Fiona Trott (Chair)

Date: 24[th] March 2026

20

Appendix

St Marys East Bergholt 2025 Accounts and Examiners Report

21

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

----- Start of picture text -----
Report and Accounts
----- End of picture text -----

year ended 31st December 2025

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

('the Charity')

I report to themembers ofthePCC (who arealso thecharity's trustees) on my examination ofthe accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2025 on thefollowing pages, which havebeen prepared on thebasis of the accounting policies set out in the notes section.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 ofthe Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

Since the Charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians, which is one of the listed bodies.

I havecompleted my examination. I confirm that no matters havecome to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity 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 applicablerequirements 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.

Britt Evans

Mrs B Evans (AAT) Assocation of Accounting Technicians Rookery Cottage Gaston Street ast Bergholt Colchester CO7 6SF

Date: 20th March 2026

Page 1

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:
Donations and legacies
3
Charitable activities
4
Other trading activities
5
Investments
6
Other income
0
Total income and endowments
EXPENDITURE ON:
Charitable activities
7
Total expenditure
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
12
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
12		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
61,691
14,590
18,416
4,703
-
99,400
(89,335)
-
(89,335)
10,065
(5,220)
4,845
42,202
47,047		 Restricted
Funds
£
255,053
7,460
-
-
-
262,513
(132,873)
-
(132,873)
129,640
5,220
134,860
18,500
153,360		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
(5,169)
-
(5,169)
(5,169)
-
(5,169)
272,649
267,480		 Total
Funds
2025
£
316,744
22,050
18,416
4,703
-
361,913
(227,377)
-
(227,377)
134,536
-
134,536
333,351
467,887		 Total
Funds
2024
£
60,129
12,350
22,324
15,059
-
109,862
(105,047)
-
(105,047)
4,815
-
4,815
328,536
333,351

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing operation

Rounding differences of £1 may appear in these accounts.

The notes on the following pages form part of these accounts.

Page 2

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Fixed Asset Investments
9
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
10
Cash at bank and in hand
11
TOTAL NET ASSETS
FUND BALANCES
12
Unrestricted Funds
General funds
Designated funds
Restricted Funds
Endowment Funds		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
29,406
29,406
-
17,641
17,641
47,047
5,022
42,025
47,047
-
-
47,047		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
99,730
53,630
153,360
153,360
-
-
-
153,360
-
153,360		 Endowment
Funds
£
267,480
267,480
-
-
-
267,480
-
-
-
-
267,480
267,480		 Total
Funds
2025
£
296,886
296,886
99,730
71,271
171,001
467,887
5,022
42,025
47,047
153,360
267,480
467,887		 Total
Funds
2024
£
300,093
300,093
-
33,258
33,258
333,351
9,716
32,486
42,202
18,500
272,649
333,351

Rounding differences of £1 may appear in these accounts.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and were signed on its behalf by:

Fiona Trott 24th March 2026 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Fiona Trott (Chair of Trustees) Date

Charity number: 1190273

The notes on the following pages form part of these accounts.

Page 3

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

1 Statutory Information

The East Bergholt Parochial Church Council is a charity registered with the Charity Commission in England & Wales. Thecharity's registered number and principal address can be found on the Charity Information page.

2 Accounting Policies

These financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis, under thehistorical cost convention. Thefinancial statements include all activities for which the PCC is legally responsible; the activities of informal gatherings of church members and groups that owe their main affiliation to another body and are excluded.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with The Church Accounting Regulations 2006, the 'Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)'("the Charities SORP"), with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in theUnited Kingdom and Republic ofIreland ("FRS 102") and with theCharities Act 2011. Thecharity meets the definition of a public benefit entity as set out in FRS 102.

The Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 (the '2008 Regulations') requires charities to prepare their accounts in accordance with 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effectivefrom 1 April 2005'but this accounting standard has sincebeen withdrawn and has been replaced by theCharities SORP mentioned in thepreceding paragraph. Thecharity has prepared these financial statements in accordance with the new Charities SORP; this departure from the 2008 Regulations is believed to be necessary for these financial statements to give a 'true and fair view'.

In theprevious year thecharity prepared its accounts using thereceipts and payments basis; in thecurrent year thecharity's income exceeded £250,000 and so it is now obliged to usetheaccruals basis for thepreparation ofits accounts. The comparatives presented in these accounts have been re-stated using the accruals basis and a reconciliation with the reserves and results reported in note 14.

The principles adopted in the preparation of the financial statements are set out below.

a) Going concern

ThePCC haveassessed whether theuseofthegoing concern basis is appropriateand haveconsidered possibleevents or conditions that might cast significant doubt on theability ofthe charity to continueas a going concern. The PCC have madethis assessment for a period ofat least one year from thedate ofapproval ofthe financial statements. In particular thePCC haveconsidered thecharity's forecasts and projections and the possible implications should projected income and / or expenditure vary unexpectedly. The PCC have concluded that there is a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue to operate for the foreseeable future. The charity therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its financial statements.

b) Income

Income (which includes planned giving, grants, collections and other donations) is recognised in the period in which the charity becomes entitled to receipt, the amount receivable can bemeasured with reasonable certainty, and receipt is probable. For themost part income is generally recognised when it is received by, or on behalf of, the PCC. Income is only deferred when thecharity has to fulfil conditions before becoming entitled to it or where the donor has specified that the income is to be expended in a future period.

Incomefrom donations and legacies includes recoverablegift aid, which is recognised when therelated donation is received. Gift aid that has not been recovered by the balance sheet date is included as a debtor.

Thecharity relies on volunteers to carry out many of its activities. However, in accordancewith theSORP, thevalue ofthese services has not been included in these financial statements as they cannot be reliably measured.

Income from charitable activities represents income receivable from goods, services and facilities supplied in furtherance of the charity's charitable objects.

2 Accounting Policies continued

Income from other trading activities represents income receivable from activities undertaken to generate funds for the charity.

Investment income represents income generated by the charity's assets such as dividends as well as increases in market vale. It also includes income from bank interest.

Page 4

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

2 Accounting Policies continued

The charity has taken the view that it has only one charitable activity, namely the advancement of the Christian faith, and all income from donations, legacies and charitable activities is in respect of this one activity.

c) Expenditure

Expenditure, including irrecoverableVAT, is recognised when it is incurred or, ifearlier, when a legal or constructiveobligation for a payment arises provided that it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Contributions in respect of the diocesan parish share are included in the Statement of Financial Activities for all amounts agreed to being payable for the financial year.

The cost of raising funds is not significant and has not been separately disclosed.

Governance costs, which are included in expenditure on charitable activities but are identified separately in the notes to the accounts, includes costs associated with the independent examination of the financial statements, compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements and any other expenditure incurred on the strategic management of the charity.

d) Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the PCC in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity. Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the PCC for particular purposes. Restricted funds are donations which areto beused in accordancewith specific restrictions imposed by donors; they include donations received from appeals for specific activities or projects. Endowment funds aredonations that areretained as capital in accordancewith thedonor's wishes. The nature of the restriction determines whether the endowments represent permanent endowments or expendable endowments.

e) Tangible fixed assets

Consecrated and beneficed property is not included in these financial statements by virtue of s.10(2) of the Charities Act 2011. All expenditure on consecrated or beneficed buildings is written off in the year in which it is incurred.

Movable church furnishings held by theincumbent and Churchwardens on special trust for thePCC and which requirea faculty for disposal are capitalised in accordance with the policy set out below. These items are regarded as inalienable property and are listed in the church's inventory which can be inspected at any reasonable time. Inalienable property acquired prior to 2023 has not been capitalised as there is insufficient cost information available and estimated current net book value would be immaterial to these accounts.

Items purchased or donated for the charity's own use are capitalised when the cost of the individual purchased items, or the fair value of donated items, is more than £2,000 and the item is expected to benefit the charity over morethan oneaccounting period. Depreciation is charged on a straight line basis so as to write down the value of each asset to its estimated residual value (if any) over its expected useful economic life. To achieve this objective the following rates of depreciation are charged:

Equipment Over 3 to 7 years

Thecarrying values oftangiblefixed assets arereviewed for impairment in periods when events or changes in circumstances indicatethat the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Page 5

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

2 Accounting Policies continued

f) Investments

Fixed asset investments areheld to generateincomeand / or for their investment potential. They arevalued in theseaccounts at Market Value at the balance sheet date, with any improvement or reduction in value being recognised as income or expenditure in the Statement of Financial Activities.

g) Stocks

Stocks held at the year end of either goods purchased for re-saleon our bookstall or donated items held for distribution to beneficiaries via our Pantry in the Porch project are not considered material to these accounts and have not been included.

h) Pension scheme arrangements

The charity operates defined contribution pension schemes for its employee (NEST). Obligations for contributions to these schemes are recognised as an expensewhen the liability arises. Theassets ofthese schemes are held separately from those ofthe charity in independently administered funds.

i) Taxation

The charity has taken advantage of the various reliefs from taxation available to charities and no tax is payable on the charity's income.

j) Exemption from preparing a cashflow statement

The charity has taken advantage of an exemption conferred by the Charities SORP and has not prepared a cash flow statement.

k) Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement

Themembers ofthePCC do not consider that thereareany material sources ofestimation or uncertainty at the balancesheet datethat could result in a material adjustment to the carrying values of assets and liabilities in the next reporting period.

3 Donations and legacies

tions and legacies
Unrestricted
Restricted
2025
2025
£
£
Grants and Donations relating to the New Roof Fund
Church Donations and Grants
Income tax recoverable		 2025
£
214,850
90,855
11,039
316,744		 2024
£
1,414
49,897
8,818
60,129

Page 6

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

4 Income from charitable activities

Church Operations and activities
Roof Fundraising Activities
5
Income from other trading activities
Unrestricted
Restricted
2025
2025
Magazine
Bookstall/Calendars
6
Investment income
Increase in Market Value of Investments (see note 9)
Interest Income		 2025
£
14,591
7,460
22,050
2025
£
16,945
1,471
18,416
2025
£
1,962
2,741
4,703		 2024
£
12,350
-
12,350
2024
£
19,349
2,975
22,324
2024
£
12,278
2,781
15,059

Page 7

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

7 Charitable expenditure

a

2020
2020
£
£
Church Activities
Parish share
Music Expenses (including Organist Fees)
Church Utilities
Church Repairs and Maintenance (including cleaning)
Insurance
Fundraising activities
Diocesan Fees
Equipment Purchased
Miscellaneous expenses
Decrease in Market Value of Investments (see note 9)
Magazine Trading costs
Bookstall Trading costs
Roof Fund Project Expenditure (including salaries)
Chancel Roof repair		 Total
2025
£		 Total
2024
£
24,150
5,540
6,699
6,758
4,898
1,867
1,689
8,900
5,251
5,169
18,032
3,296
87,999
34,272
214,521		 31,300
5,965
7,602
9,517
4,788
579
1,516
-
5,781
-
18,536
1,993
5,768
-
93,343

b Costs incurred on support & administration

incurred on support & administration
Governance costs
Parish office costs (including administrator fee)
-
-
expenditure
-		 -
12,857
12,857
227,377		 -
11,703
11,703
105,047

Total expenditure

Page 8

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

8 Analysis of staff costs

ysis of staff costs
Gross wages and salaries
Social security
Pension costs		 2025
£
17,738
-
113
17,851		 2024
£
-
-
-
-

The average monthly number of employees during the year was 1 (2024:0). Most of the charity's activities are carried out by volunteers.

No staff received salaries at a rate of more than £60,000 per annum.

No members of the PCC received employment benefits in either the current or preceding year.

9
Fixed Asset Investments
Market Value of Investment Bfwd
Disposals during the year
Increase in Market Value of Investment (note 6)
Decrease in Market value of Investment (note 7)
Market Value at end of the Year		 Endowment
Malschinger
Investment
249,295
(4,273)
245,022		 Endowment
CCLA
Investment
23,354
(896)
22,458		 Designated
BlackRock
Investment
27,444
1,962
29,406		 2025
£
300,093
-
1,962
(5,169)
296,886		 2024
£
297,815
(10,000)
-
12,278
300,093

During 2024, £10,000 was transferred from the Malschinger Investment Fund to the new Roof Fund.

10 Debtors

Falling due within one year:
Accrued grant income		 2025
£
99,730
99,730		 2024
£
-
-

During the year the National Lottery Heritage Fund awarded a Development Stage grant of £199,460 for the Securing the Future of St Marys Project. An initial instalment of £99,730 was made in February 2025 as the project commenced, and the remainder is being claimed during 2026 as the funds are spent on approved purposes in line with the grants terms. The full grant of income of £199,460 is recognised in this years accounts in line with SORP, with the remaining instalments recognised as an accrued income asse which is due within one year.

11 Cash at Bank and in Hand

Cash at bank (including deposits with no notice period) 2025
£
71,271
71,271		 2024
£
33,258
33,258

Page 9

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

12 Funds

During the year the movements in the charity's funds were as follows:

Designated Funds
Magazine
Boiler Repair Fund
Bookstall Fund
Unknown Receipt
BlackRock Fund
General Unrestricted Funds
Total Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Flower Fund
Roof Fund - New
Chancel Roof Fund
Restricted Appeals Fund
Hardship Fund
Benefice PA
Pantry in the Porch
Sum Up Fund
Foodbank fund
Mission Hall Fund
Endowment Fund
Malschinger Fund
Paskell Fund
Total Endowment Fund
Aggregate of funds		 Opening
balance
2025
£
5,042
-
-
-
27,444
32,486
9,716
42,202
1,003
16,997
-
500
18,500
249,295
23,354
272,649
333,351		 Incoming
resources
2025
£
16,945
-
-
4,133
1,962
23,040
76,361
99,401
-
222,310
27,802
9,441
1500
900
410
80
70
-
262,513
-
-
-
361,914		 Outgoing
resources
2025
£
(18,032)
-
-
-
-
(18,032)
(71,303)
(89,335)
-
(87,999)
(34,272)
(9,441)
(550)
(382)
(229)
-
-
-
(132,873)
(4,273)
(896)
(5,169)
(227,378)		 Transfers
in the year
2025
£
(2,000)
5,332
1,200
-
-
4,532
(9,752)
(5,220)
-
(1,250)
6,470
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
5,220
-
-
-
-		 Closing
balance
2025
£
1,954
5,332
1,200
4,133
29,406
42,025
5,022
47,047
1,003
150,058
0
-
950
518
181
80
70
500
153,360
245,022
22,458
267,480
467,887

Page 10

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

The transfers referred to above were made for the following reasons:

12 Funds continued

Purposes of the various funds:

Restricted Funds

Endowment Funds

Page 11

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

12 Funds continued

Analysis of net assets by fund

The assets and liabilities of the various funds were as follows:

Unrestricted Funds
General Designated Restricted Endowment
funds funds funds funds 2025
£ £ £ £ £
Fixed Asset Investment - 29,406 - 267,480 296,886
Debtors - - 99,730 - 99,730
Cash at bank and in hand 5,022 12,619 53,630 - 71,271
Creditors falling due within one year - - - - -
5,022 42,025 153,360 267,480 467,887
In the previous year the movements in the charity's funds were as follows:
Opening Incoming Outgoing Transfers Closing
balance resources resources in the year balance
2024 2024 2024 2024 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Designated Funds
Altar Fund 10,000 - - (10,000) -
Magazine 6,229 19,349 (18,536) (2,000) 5,042
BlackRock Fund 26,698 746 - - 27,444
42,927 20,095 (18,536) (12,000) 32,486
General Unrestricted Funds 6,496 72,027 (70,807) 2,000 9,716
Total Unrestricted Funds 49,423 92,122 (89,343) (10,000) 42,202
Restricted Funds
Flower Fund 1,163 - (160) - 1,003
Roof Fund - Old 6,803 2,587 (8,039) (1,351) -
Roof Fund - New - 1,414 (5,768) 21,351 16,997
Restricted Appeals Fund - 1,707 (1,707) - -
Mission Hall Fund - 500 - - 500
Toddlers Fund 30 - (30) - -
7,996 6,208 (15,704) 20,000 18,500
Endowment Fund
Malschinger Fund 248,286 11,009 - (10,000) 249,295
Paskell Fund 22,831 523 - - 23,354
Total Endowment Fund 271,117 11,532 - (10,000) 272,649
Aggregate of funds 328,536 109,862 (105,047) - 333,351

Page 12

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

12 Funds continued

Analysis of net assets by fund

In the previous year, the assets and liabilities of the various funds were as follows:

Fixed Asset Investments
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors falling due within one year		 General
Designated
funds
funds
£
£
-
27,444
9,716
5,042
-
-
9,716
32,486
Unrestricted Funds		 Restricted
funds
£
-
18,500
-
18,500		 Endowment
funds
£
272,649
-
-
272,649		 2024
£
300,093
33,258
-
General
funds
£
-
9,716
-
9,716
333,351

13 Transactions with related parties

During the year the charity:

a) received donations (excluding Gift aid) totalling £26,130 (2024: £14,599) from related parties which includes members of thePCC and anyone closely connected to them.

Except for thereimbursement ofexpenses incurred when acting as agent for thecharity, or incurred when serving as clergy or as employees, no expenses with a profit element were paid to (or for) the members of the PCC.

The East Bergholt Mission Hall Trust is a separately registered charity (Reg No: 254538) of which the East Bergholt Parochial Church Council is the sole trustee. The assets of the trust are held by the St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocesan Board of Finance as Custodian Trustee and total £2,079 at the year end (2024: £2,166). During the previous year, a donation was received from the Trust for £500 towards children's work which was recorded as Mission Hall Trust Restricted income in that year. No donations have nee received during 2025.

14 Reconciliation with previously reported funds

In theprevious year thecharity prepared its accounts using thereceipts and payments basis; in thecurrent year thecharity's income exceeded £250,000 and so it is now obliged to usetheaccruals basis for thepreparation ofits accounts. The comparatives presented in these accounts have been re-stated using the accruals basis and a reconciliation with the reserves and results reported previously follows:

Reconciliation of reserves

Previously reported reserves, at 31 December
Adjustments arising from use of accruals basis:
Inclusion of Investments at Market Value
Inclusion of previously excluded fixed assets
Inclusion of previously excluded debtors
Inclusion of previously excluded creditors
Re-stated reserves, at 31 December		 2024
£
141,527
191,824
-
-
-
333,351		 2023
£
138,991
189,545
-
-
-
328,536

The accounts have been adjusted for any material debtors or creditors in existence at the year end. (2024: NIL/2023:NIL)

Page 13

EAST BERGHOLT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES WITH COMPARATIVES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2025

Restricted
2025
£
255,053
7,460
-
-
262,513
(132,873)
(132,873)
129,640
5,220
134,860
18,500
153,360		 Endowment
2025
£
-
-
-
-
-
(5,169)
(5,169)
(5,169)
-
(5,169)
272,649
267,480		 Total
2025
£
316,744
22,050
18,416
4,703
361,913
(227,377)
(227,377)
134,536
-
134,536
333,351
467,887		 General
Designated
2024
2024
£
£
Unrestricted funds		 General
Designated
2024
2024
£
£
Unrestricted funds		 Restricted
2024
£		 Endowment
2024
£		 Total
2024
£
60,129
12,350
22,324
15,059
109,862
(105,047)
(105,047)
53,921
12,350
2,975
2,781
72,027		 -
-
19,349
746
20,095		 6,208
-
-
-
6,208		 -
-
-
11,532
11,532
(70,807) (18,536) (15,704) -
(70,807) (18,536) (15,704) -
1,220 1,559 (9,496) 11,532 4,815
-
2,000 (12,000) 20,000 (10,000)
3,220 (10,441) 10,504 1,532 4,815
328,536
333,351
6,496 42,927 7,996 271,117
9,716 32,486 18,500 272,649

Rounding differences of £1 may occur

Page 14