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2022-12-31-accounts

Annual Report and Financial Statement 31[st] December 2022

The Church of St James the Great, Harvington

Mission Statement: To Show Our Love for God and You

Annual Report & Financial Statement 2022

Incumbent Reverend Canon Richard Thorniley

Bank

The Co-operative Bank

COOP (check with David for Associate Minister & address) Pioneer Deacon The Reverend Chris Sheehan

Licensed Lay Minister Pippa Heenan from 17[th] September 2022

Authorised Lay Minister

Churchwardens Sophie Dodds – office expired April Alan Hirst – office expired April Elliot Grainger - Elected April

Verger Members of the PCC

Organist Sally Livingstone

Independent Examiner Mr Andy Tooth

John Liggitt

Eucharist Assistants

David Battin, Susan Bullard, Sophie Dodds, John Liggitt, Janet Stean, Gill Thorniley.

Sides Persons Morning Service: Michael Barbour, David Battin, Sophie Dodds, Annette France, Jill Francis, Jack Hegarty, John Liggitt, Karen O’Neill, Graham Pearson, John Redman, Joy Rawes, Gill Thorniley

Number on Electoral Roll: 48

Average weekly attendance: 27

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Parochial Church Council

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of St James the Great, Harvington, Evesham is a charity excepted from Registration with the Charity Commission. It aims to co-operate with the minister in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the church – pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical [PCC (powers) Measure 1956].

Risk management

The PCC has agreed on a risk management plan and procedures have been designated to manage effectively risks which may arise. The responsible officers for this plan are churchwardens, who may modify it from time to time. A current copy is kept in the church.

PCC members
Incumbent The Reverend Canon Richard Thorniley (Chair)
Curate, Deacon, pioneer Minister The Reverend Chris Sheehan
Licensed Lay Minister Pippa Heenan
Churchwardens Sophie Dodds, Alan Hirst office_expired April_
Elliot Grainger
Deanery Synod Representatives David Battin, Jack Hegarty
Elected members Sally Livingstone resigned, John Liggitt, Annette France, Jill
Francis, Joy Rawes, Graham Pearson, Alan Hirst, Jack Hegarty
(co-opted)
Treasurer John Liggitt
Secretary Pat Stephens
Parish Safeguarding Officer Jill Francis

Standing Committee

Chair: Reverend Canon Richard Thorniley, Elliot Grainger, John Liggitt, Pat Stephens.

PCC Sub-committees 2022

Mission and Worship Did not meet in 2022

Pastoral

Chair: Reverend Canon Richard Thorniley Wendy Monks, Konrad Monks, Sue Bullard, Annette France, Michael Barbour, Kay Barrett, Joy Rawes

PCC members are appointed in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. The Incumbent, Church Wardens and Deanery Synod Representatives are ex-officio members of the PCC. Other members are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) or co-opted during the year.

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Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

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

The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included on the charity’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

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Review of the Year 2022

Sub-committee Reports

Worship and Outreach in 2022

We remained under semi-Covid restrictions through until October when we had our first Family Service which was a Harvest Thanksgiving with a ‘Bring and Share’ lunch to follow. Thereafter we returned to the pre-Covid pattern of services in the morning of Morning Service, Holy Communion, Family Service and Holy Communion. On 5[th] Sundays we travel around for a Benefice Eucharist taking it in turns to host in our Benefice churches.

Up until September we had a growing number of worshippers from our pre-Covid flock and some fresh additions have brought fresh life to the family. There is a lovely feel with families brought in by family services and through links made via the Holiday Club and Baptism.

Her Majesty the Queen brought delight as we celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, the first monarch in English History to have achieved this distinction, at the beginning of June and sorrow her death was announced on Thursday 8[th] September which forced us to cancel the Afternoon Tea Party on Saturday 10[th] September and we then held a solemn service of Holy Communion to mourn her loss on Sunday 11[th] September. The latter service had a large attendance from the community and muffled bells were rung in her honour. A book of condolence was opened for 10 days until the day after her funeral on 19[th] September in Westminster Abbey.

We again enjoyed joint services with Harvington Baptist Chapel (HBC) in August taking turns to host a service each during the holiday month. They also joined us for the Remembrance Service with the Act of Remembrance itself taking place at 11.00 at the War Memorial which was well supported by the village.

In December we had our first Evening Book of Common Prayer Communion Service, we will monitor numbers and see if there remains an appetite into next year. Carols moved indoors as the weather was predicted to be damp – but the warmth of welcome, hot chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies remained – and the church was comfortably full. This was preceded by the School Key Stage 2 Carol Service earlier in the week which was packed and the roof tiles were rattling with the enthusiastic singing of the children.

Our Christmas Eve Family Service was reinstated but without Christingles which made it more manageable – and included lovely sketches and commentaries provided by children and adults in equal measure.

The Reverend Chris Sheehan continued to host daily morning prayer via Zoom at 8.30 am Monday to Saturday. The Reverend Richard Thorniley hosts Evening prayer at 6.00 pm. The Church of England liturgical pattern is followed except on Saturday when it is Northumbrian Prayer. The regulars have found it invaluable in shaping the day when everything else is thrown out of the diary. This spins off from Lockdown remains.

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Holiday Club

We had two Holiday Club which took place in February and July. Numbers were limited to 25 children in February as it is indoors, but rose to 40 in July. The Holiday Clubs included wonderful craft opportunities, walks, games and in the summer the now traditional obstacle course at Ellenden farm. Lively singing of well-known school songs from ISingPop selection at the start of the day along with prayers made these two 3-day clubs a great success.

Outreach

Open the Book took place in school again and the team comprising Pete Ashplant, Jill Francis, Michael Bowen, Gill Thorniley, Toby Sturgess (our new Youth Group Leader) and Richard Thorniley. A series of stories from the Old and New Testament were presented in sketch form to the children’s delight especially when they could provide noises and moves as well as additional personnel.

Sunday Soup

A project to offer hot soup each Sunday continued from last year and restarted in November, initiated and led by Rev Chris Sheehan and operating in Evesham’s All Saints Church, the location of the weekly food banks. Several St James congregations have supported this outdoor soup takeaway by supplying soup and being on the serving rota, which nourishes passers-by including the homeless and lonely. Thanks to all involved.

Acknowledgements

Our sincere thanks go to all those who have led services during this year, including Reverend Richard Thorniley, Reverend Chris Sheehan, Bishop Robert Paterson, and Licensed Lay Minister Pippa Heenan who arrived as an LLM in training at the beginning of the year and then was licensed on 17 September at Worcester Cathedral and Authorised Lay Minister John Liggitt. We offer our grateful thanks to Sally Livingstone, who plays the organ and the keyboard for us at services at St. James’ with additional support from Richard Ball when Sally is away.

Caring Hands

Sophie Dodds writes:

CARING Hands is a blessing for the needy and destitute in our community. A sad indictment how much the country is struggling and some of our citizens have fallen into financial difficulties. Caring Hands in Evesham helps with cooked meals during the week, arranges food parcels for individuals and families. We have supported them again on a monthly basis with donations, which the community brings to the church.

A special collection was organised by Andrew Horton, his Father acted as Father Christmas augment the supply of Christmas goodies. A sledge with dingle bells and Santa’s helpers travelled a week before Christmas through Harvington to collect a multitude of food stuff and other items to provide valuable necessities for people before Christmas.

This event was followed by our annual Carol Service at church where Mulled Wine and Hot Chocolate was served and attended by young in a packed church. We are so blessed to have so many caring individuals who think beyond themselves.

THANK YOU HARVINGTON WHEREVER YOU ARE.

Cameo Teas

Sophie Dodds writes:

It’s our desire to meet up with friends, reach out to those who live on their own and have no Highpoints in their lives or it’s too far to travel. CAMEO Teas is now in its 18[th] year! Things don’t always just happen. That is where our band of helpers comes in. They have given their time; made cakes; did the catering; set-up tables; and are just here for support. A great big THANK YOU for your community spirit!

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In May we had Afternoon Tea at Hillers farm Shop; in June Harvington First School visited us for Afternoon Tea and a Quiz at our church. In July we were invited by the School for Tea and they presented us with their usual show. The children and adult get-together is always an enjoyable occasion and we know that every year the children look forward to meeting us.

A Service of Carol Singing started off the Christmas Spirit at our St James Church, followed by Christmas Lunch at the Kings Court Hotel, Alcester. This is always an enjoyable way to round off the year. We are so blessed to have had so many enthusiastic people in our community for CAMEO TEAS to thrive and be successful.

Pastoral sub-committee

Wendy and Konrad Monks write:

The Harvington Community Support Group was initiated by Sheila Harris, and overseen by the Rector, Rev. Richard Thorniley, and is currently coordinated by Wendy and Konrad Monks who have lived in Harvington for many years.

The purpose of the group is to provide low-key practical and emotional support to residents of the village, or to provide advice about how to access help for more complex needs. The team currently consists of Mike Barbour, Annette France, Kay Barrett and Joy Rawes, as well as the Rector and Wendy and Konrad.

Fortunately, the worst of the pandemic seems to be over and life in the village is returning to normal, but there are still a number of people who are affected by Covid as well as the particularly virulent flu virus which is circulating. Over the course of 2022 the team responded to 39 individual requests for help, as well as having continuing involvement with several people who appreciate some regular contact and support. Most of the people who get in touch with us are elderly, and some are very frail. The kind of help needed is often transport and assistance with attending appointments, but also sometimes getting in shopping, sitting with someone whilst a carer goes out, general ‘friendly visiting’, helping with computer problems, helping with pets, etc.

The “Welcome to Harvington” booklet was updated and circulated to every house in the village during 2022, (mainly thanks to the sterling work of Mike Barbour), and we have a stock of copies which are being delivered to new residents, including the newcomers to the Lioncourt development. Thanks are due to the Parish Council for funding the production of the update

Feedback we have had from residents suggests that the help we provide is appreciated and that people derive a sense of comfort knowing we are there in the background. As co-ordinators, we enjoy our role in this, but we couldn’t do it without the commitment of our always willing volunteers and we very much value their input.

Building and Fabric

Churchwarden Elliot Grainger writes:

It has been a privilege to be appointed Church Warden for the past year. This has only been possible due to a team approach to the Church Warden duties. Therefore, I must thank Alan Hirst, Sophie Dodds and David Battin for their support in keeping the show on the road, sharing duties and being a fount of advice and knowledge and in the kindly reminders for what needs doing when.

As we approach the APCM it is also worth noting that there are two slots for Church Warden, and volunteers to the position to support the work would be gratefully received. Strategic Planning

There remains a pressing need to ensure we continue to build finances to meet the increased demands from the Dioceses for our Parish Share to maintain the provision of a priest in the benefice. We are making good progress, but we need to broaden engagement with us as a body and as a building to maintain what we have, let alone for any future changes.

To assess how we can better support the community, and where there might be space for us to offer more, and engage people better with the Good News, we undertook a series of engagements with the

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village in 2022. This included a Survey and a community “townhall” meeting. To an extent, this engagement was only partly successful as much of the response came from those already engaged with the church in some way. However, there were some good insights, and it is always good to hear from those who are regulars at church and have a love for this place.

From here, in agreement with the Standing Committee and the PCC, a two-year strategy has been developed and will be shared at the APCM. This outlines objectives and actions we can take to meet them as we continue to seek to grow in our mission and ministry.

Fundraising

Fundraising will continue to be a big focus for us in the year ahead as we continue to strive to make up the £10,000 shortfall, we know is looming to cover the true cost of an incumbent. The strategy takes the view that we cannot continue to ask only from those who already give, therefore we need to engage with others in the parish to support what we have, both as custodians of this ancient building, and as a community of people organising and supporting so much activity in the village.

Following the pandemic, fundraising returned in 2022. However, due to the death of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the summer garden party was cancelled in September. However, the December Christmas Fair was held and was a success raising around £1,800. With thanks to all who donated, held stalls, supported the catering, and for all in the village who turned out in support - we had considerable footfall. A review of what went well has been done, to advise on how we can maximise the success of the Christmas event given changing tastes.

Community engagement

The church held an event to mark the Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. This was a free to attend event, with an exhibition exploring the last 70 years in the village and flower displays, as well as several peels from the Tower team over the course of the weekend. A special thanks to Rosemary Hirst and Linda Atwood for leading on the catering, and Jean Spires and the flower guild for the festive presentation in church.

The summer Holiday Club was again a great success and proved popular with children and parents alike. At Christmas we also ran a 1-day craft morning for children under ten, with thanks to Katie Horton for her preparation and invention for the crafting skills.

The church also continued its close relationship with Harvington Singers, who give a generous donation each year after their concerts.

The church also continued its partnership with the Baptist chapel in supporting the Harvington Youth Group - and were pleased to welcome Toby Sturgess to the village in mid-2022.

Tree of Light

The lights were put up by Gareth Pritchard at the end of October in time for the All-Souls Service led by John Liggitt, and were taken down at the end of November. The electrical equipment and decorations are again being stored by Sophie Dodds, with thanks from the Church Warden and the PCC for her support with this.

Christmas Cards

Once again, the response from the village, and wider Benefice to support the Cobalt Unit in Cheltenham was overwhelming, with thanks to the kind volunteers who ensured the car-full of donations were delivered on time. Due to an earlier deadline than normal, some cards were collected at church later. These have been retained and will be re-used and recycled at the next opportunity.

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Building and Fabric New Lights

Following discussions started in 2021, new lights were fitted in the Church in September 2022. These new lights are brighter and crucially more energy efficient, helping to keep running costs under control. Some other smaller electrical repairs were made at the same time.

Rector’s Vestry

Defective plaster has been removed and was replaced with lime plaster in December 2021. Ongoing damp was found to be linked to a leaking pipe from the basin. This has been resolved and the hard work of Mr Rawes and Mr Hirst, have repainted the whole vestry. Replacement carpet and underlay will be laid in 2023 to finish the repairs.

Clock

The annual inspection had revealed remedial work needed, requiring some parts to be taken away and re-machined. In the past a public appeal to cover the estimated cost has resulted in £2740 being donated. This is being held in a separate fund. Following investigations on the process, and the ongoing efforts of Mr Hirst, the faculty for the work on the clock mechanism was secured at the very end of 2022. Work can now go-ahead including the conversion to an electric radio-controlled mechanism as part of our future-proofing efforts. However, this requires an additional circa £2,000 to be raised. The PCC has agreed to again go out to the community for this which will take place in due course.

Cleaning and General Maintenance

I must of course thank all of those who continue to volunteer to clean the church on a regular basis. We have a strong pool of volunteers, but of course, we can always welcome more! In addition, thanks go again to Sophie Dodds for arranging the cleaning of the gutters around Christmas-time, and to Alan Hirst for tackling the moss on the vestry roof. I would also like to thank the gardening team for continuing to keep the churchyard in good order, not least the efforts of Julian Rawes and John Redman for the newly restored path in the churchyard.

Quinquennial Inspection

A project tracker of the Quinquennial report has been created. This is monitoring our progress in delivering the recommendations made. So far we are making 39% completion across all recommendations. However, this rises to 60% on high and medium urgency projects. Many of the lower risk issues are being kept under review by the PCC as they are suggestive, and in some cases considered not in keeping with the current or future use of the building.

Boundary Wall and Dovecote

The boundary wall to the north east of the churchyard is under review for repair. This process is in collaboration with our neighbour Annette France. It is planned for work on the wall to take place in the very near future as soon as relevant permission is obtained.

Ongoing attempts to engage with our neighbour on the state of the Dovecote and a need to make it structurally sound continued.

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Church Activities

Faith Today Group

Sophie Dodds writes:

We are so blessed and can certainly say “we have had a great year”.

New members joined; interesting subjects were tackled and we learnt so much more about the mystery of our universe and our Lord Jesus Christ who keeps us alive.

The following subject inspired us:

The Trinity; Love they Neighbour; I am the Vine; The Body of Christ Part 1 + Part 2; and The Tabernacle; we started the New Year with Martha & Mary.

They have all been very challenging and interesting discussions and we have been able to help and support each other on our pilgrimage through life. The Holy Spirit is alive !

Safeguarding

Safeguarding officer for the Arch Benefice, Jill Francis writes:

The Parochial Church Council has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have due regard to House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).

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Church Bell ringing teams

Tower Captain, Anthony Wheeler writes:

We rang out the Old Year 2021 and rang in the New Year 2022. Bell Practice returned on 24[th] May 2022 for the first time since Covid 19 Restrictions were lifted.

On Thursday 2[nd] June 2022 a special ring took place from the times 19.52 to 20.22 to symbolize Queen Elizabeth 2[nd] Platinum Jubilee. On the following day another ring took place to coincide with the Service at Westminster Abbey at 11.30.

Ringing took place on the 4[th] June at 3pm or the start of The Harvington Flower Festival. Following the death of Queen Elizabeth on Thursday 8[th] September 2022 the tenor was tolled 96 times to celebrate her 96 years of age.

On the 19[th] September again, the tenor was tolled to coincide with the start of her funeral. On the 5[th] November we rang to coincide with the start of COP 27 Climate Change meeting in Egypt. On Sunday 13[th] November half muffled ringing for The Remembrance Service. Lots of Ringing over the Christmas Period.

During 2022 Two Quarter Peals were completed by visiting teams and we rung for one funeral. Many thanks to our ringers for their continued commitment and support.

St James Hand bell ringers report

Keith Hemming writes:

This year was very much like past years as we attended a number of engagements, village ladies’ groups and of course handbell rallies. We also had a visit to the Air Ambulance base at Strensham where we met up with Charley Burke Fundraising Executive who showed us around and we were able to have a chat with the crew, as we were lucky that the Air Ambulance was at base. She expressed that if we let her know where our engagements were and if the crew were about, that they would call in and see, I thought yea ok as if, but Hey Ho! When we were at Tesco’s in Evesham a crew called in as they had been on a call out in Worcester and I was very impressed as it would have been so easy just to go back to base straight down the M5. Christmas this year was much better as all the supermarkets were now back up and running after the covid problems. We visited a care home and our collection for the year was £3367.92. We have 3 new ladies come to join us so we hope they will enjoy hand bells and keep coming. We can always do with more team members because at the end of the day it is availability that counts.

Church Cleaning Rota

Sophie Dodds writes

We are proud that our much-admired church, by visitors from near and far, is always clean and tidy and cared for. It is a delight to worship every Sunday in a clean environment and to pop in any time during the year for quiet reflection.

The Cleaning Team for 2022 were : Christine Adkins; Carol & Michael Barbour; David Battin; Jenny Briffett; Mirren Brodie; Sue Bullard; Sophie Dodds; Mary Dumelow; Gerry Foster; Caroline James; Jean Roberts; Jean Spires.

A big THANK YOU to the dedicated Cleaning Team who have been cleaning week in, week out, this is an unenviable task.

Churchyard Vergers report

Joy and Julian Rawes write:

The gardening group has had another successful year with regular monthly turnout from March to November of around 15 enthusiastic helpers, from near and far. Other jobs have continued in the “closed season” such as tree cutting and pruning with special thanks to Roland and Lynn Merrick and Alan Williams. The rear path has been resurfaced with help from Richard Baugh. We continue to try to improve our eco credibility following suggestions from David Battin and have planted more

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wildflowers as well as creating 4 log piles in the churchyard to encourage wildlife plus two new small native trees. The area behind Candle cottage is being developed as a wildlife walk including plants for bees and butterflies and leaving some nettles! The water butt behind the church has been mended and is now usuable. The group has also become a social get-together group. We had a party in the summer to say thank you to all those who give up their time and are so eager to help. What a fantastic village this is!

Electoral Roll

Annette France writes :

Number on roll is 48. Although we have had a number of new members of the Congregation, three are ordained ministers and cannot be on our roll.

Harvington Youth Project

Peter Ashplant Chairperson of the Harvington Youth Project Steering Group writes:

The last 12 months has seen the re-emergence of the Youth Project following the closures during the Covid epidemic. We said goodbye to our Youth Leader of 8 years’ service, Hannah Owen, in December 2021 and the New Year brought a lengthy recruitment process.

We owe a great deal of thanks to Hannah who brought such wonderful creativity and excitement to the Project, and we wished her well in her new adventure.

The volunteers of the Project pulled together wonderfully well in the intervening months prior to our new appointment of a Youth Worker. Groups opened fully in the Spring of 2022 and it was wonderful to see children and young people coming back through the doors of the Chapel again. On July 4[th ] 2022, our new Youth Worker, Toby Sturgess, arrived to lead us into a new era. The Project had been involved in the village Jubilee celebrations and there was great excitement as we looked ahead. Toby had just finished his Theology and Youth Ministry degree at Malvern College and brought lots of ideas and aspirations to the Project.

He has settled in his flat in Evesham and spent a good deal of the summer school holidays preparing for the Groups in September. We had our biggest rise in the Ignite group (13+ years) for quite some time and Toby has really worked hard to bring this new group together bringing his love of the Christian ministry and fun to the young people.

The Adventurers has taken a little longer to build up again, but the most recent session saw 13 children between 7 and 10 years of age enjoying activities. The Explore group lost some of its members to Ignite but is now building up again.

A very big thank you must go to the Volunteers who have been so committed to supporting Toby in his new leadership. They are such a big part of the success of the Project.

For the future, there are always considerations being explored for fund raising. Huge gratitude goes to St. James Church, the Baptist Chapel, the Parish Council and our very generous friends who give donations to the Project. We have plans for fund raising days in 2023 and it has been a great joy to be chosen by the local Phoenix Group as their charity of the year.

The Project has been asked to take part in the Harvington Arts Festival in July 2023 and we are very excited about that too. Being part of the local community in that way is very important to us. So, the new era has brought new hopes and excitement following the Covid closure years and we enter our 29[th] year with a vision that will surely provide the children and young people of Harvington with new opportunities too

Deanery Synod Report

Representatives: David Battin and Jack Hegarty write:

Jack Hegarty and David Battin are your representatives. Jack Hegarty was appointed to the Deanery Leadership Team to assist with planning to meet the challenges of the new major housing developments in the deanery.

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On 1st February there was a hybrid meeting at All Saints Evesham at which Revd Dick Johnson spoke on ‘Faith at Work in Worcestershire’. He reminded us that God is active at people’s place of work and it is a challenge for local churches to make this a ‘new reality’. The role of the chaplain is to support people of all faiths and none. Issues for the local work economy include justice, fair trade and modernday slavery.

The difficulties in paying the Parish Share were reported. In 2020 churches in the deanery paid 63% of the amount due.

An open deanery meeting was held on 24th May to which about 100 people came (7 or 8 from our Benefice) to discuss various issues about organisation of the church in the future. It was reported that we may have fewer stipendiary priests in the deanery. A wide range of opinions were expressed and attempts were made to capture these for future discussions and planning.

The next synod meeting was at Drakes Broughton on 6th July. Discussion took place about the outcome of the open meeting in May. The top priority actions included:

At the Deanery Synod by Zoom on 25th October Simon Hill, Diocesan Youth Officer explained the challenges of reaching children and young people. We need to seek new and creative ways to reach out as a church. For example, events may not be on Sundays. The Diocese has an aim to reach twice as many young people by 2030. The joint youth project in Harvington was mentioned as one model of approach.

Flower Rota

Jean Spires writes:

Flowers have been placed in Church during the year as necessary. The Church was decorated for Easter, by the team, and as usual looked lovely. The next festival being “Pentecost” and an arrangement depicting tongues of fire was placed in the front of the Altar. The next celebration was for the Queens “Platinum Jubilee” in June when the Church was decorated in red, white and blue by the team to compliment the display of the “Harvington History” on the Saturday when teas were served to many visitors. In September, very sadly Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth passed away and a table was placed in Church with a lovely photograph displayed with candles and a posy arrangement for the people to pay their respects. Also, a book was placed on the Font for people to leave a message of condolence. The next event being Harvest festival when the team decorated the church and as requested provided many donations of produce to Caring Hands which as usual was very much appreciated. At the beginning of November an arrangement of Lilies and a scroll naming the deceased was placed in the prayer corner for the “All Souls Service”. For Remembrance Sunday poppies were arranged in Church for the service. A Christmas tree was dutifully decorated and the windows were decorated very simply with trees, holly, ivy and cones for the Harvington Singers concert. The Crib was placed in the prayer corner for the carol service held the Sunday before Christmas.

Many thanks to you all for all the help given during the year which is very much appreciated.

Arch Messenger

Richard Thorniley writes:

Grateful thanks are offered to Cathy Davies for editing the Arch Messenger our Benefice magazine and Chris Reed for overseeing the advertising which ensures that it can distributed free to all households. The distribution is enabled through the good offices of Kay Barrett who carefully nurtures our hard walking distributors. It is a labour of love that is warmly welcomed by many in the

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community and enables the church to share the Christian message of hope as well as news and events in the community.

Summary

We shrugged COVID off during the year, but have maintained the dipping of wafers into the Communion Wine as a precaution. Numbers have returned and with some new additions it is lovely to report that Sunday attendance is increasing. We look forward to building on this with hopefully Cross Club returning in the New Year.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and then her death were notable events and St James was able to offer a platform for looking back with a wonderful display of village history at the Jubilee, and a solemn service of thanksgiving at her majesty’s death. Both these events were well supported by the village.

4 baptisms took place during the year.

Unusually there were no weddings in 2022 – but 3 and a blessing are in the diary for 2023.

5 funerals took place in the church during the year plus Sheila Wosltenhome’s, an old church family member, Memorial Service.

The churchyard continued to be cared for by a wonderful team headed up by the Rawes and Roland and Lynne Merrick receiving special mention as they played a part in keeping the hedge trimmed.

Most importantly we are working on a new strategy which paves a way forward to enable St James to play a key part in the community life and make the good news of the gospel relevant and affect the people of our beloved parish. As we continue to live out our vision ‘To show our love for God and you

Richard Thorniley.

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Financial Statements for the year ending 31 December 2022

Church of St James the Great Harvington, Parochial Church Council

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Financial Review

Following the improvement in finances in 2021 resulting from the substantial legacy and a slight improvement in the underlying deficit, I am very happy to report that our underlying deficit for 2022 has reduced from £5,044 to £518.

This comprises a deficit in unrestricted funds of £556 and a surplus in restricted funds of £38.

This improvement is very much due to the generosity of the parish family and our community as there have been increases in planned giving, in collections and in fund raising.

Looking at the figures in greater detail shows the following:

Income

Planned Giving – There has been a further increase in the amount received from planned giving from £22,437 in 2021 to £23,280.

Collections – have increased from £2,016 in 2021 to £3,473.

Donations – These have fallen substantially as no material appeals have been in place during the year.

Gift Aid – Receipts from Gift Aid have reduced slightly reflecting the reduction in donations received.

The Parish Giving Scheme is s till the most efficient method of giving and if anyone would like further details please contact either the Treasurer or Rector.

Expenditure

Parish Share – The Parish Share remained at £24,550 for the year. However, as I mentioned in my last report, the share is being increased as the methodology of calculating has changed. This increase is being mitigated by a Ministry Support Grant which we successfully applied for and received in 2022 and an application has been made for further support in 2023. However the increase for 2023 will take our share to £26,839.

The remainder of our expenditure has remained at much the same levels as 2021.

As I stated last year, given the church closures and lack of fund raising activities over the last two years, we have ended the year in a reasonable financial position. However, with increases in our Parish Share and the expected increases in heating and lighting costs, we will need to actively work on our fund raising activities in 2023 and beyond.

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Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of St James' Harvington Parochial Church Council

I report to the members on my examination of the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2022 which are set out on pages 18 to 29.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charities members 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 of the 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

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 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 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

Mr A Tooth Dated 17th March 2023 Blossom View 37 Orchard Place Harvington Worcestershire WR11 8NF

17

St James Harvington PCC

Statement of Financial Activities

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Incoming Resources
Planned Giving
Collections and other giving
Donations
Grants
Legacies
Investment Income
Income from activities to further the work of the Church
Income from activities to generate funds
Income tax (GA) recovered
Debtor Gift Aid to be recovered
Benefice Account
Sundry Income
Transfer from General Fund to Mission, Spire Appeal
and Churchyard Funds
Total Incoming Resources
Resources Expended
Diocesan Parish Share
Local and overseas mission
Activities to generate funds
Church Running Expenses
Utilities
Insurance
Benefice/Clergy Expenses
Repairs
Sundries
Benefice Account
Transfer to Mission and Churchyard Funds from General Fund
Total Resources Expended
Net movement in Funds
Reconciliation of Funds
B/Fwd Balance
Net movement in Funds
C/Fwd Balance		 Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
22,690
590
23,280
2,823
650
3,473
1,002
308
1,310
-
1,000
1,000
887
887
1,076
1,076
4,416
4,416
6,116
2
6,118
191
191
10,317
-
10,317
19
19
1,702
6,724
8,426
52,239
8,274
60,513
24,550
24,550
2,333
2,333
250
250
-
-
2,323
2,323
2,361
2,361
2,620
2,620
1,866
5,903
7,770
81
81
10,317
-
10,317
8,426
8,426
52,795
8,236
61,031
(556)
38
(518)
(2,423)
113,081
110,658
(556)
38
(518)
(2,979)
113,119
110,140
2022		 2021
Total
22,437
2,016
5,431
-
100,000
154
758
3,162
5,259
1,786
11,913
-
15,790
168,706
24,550
2,089
-
355
2,066
2,287
4,609
9,917
175
11,913
15,790
73,751
94,956
15,702
94,956
110,658

18

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Balance Sheet as at 31st December 2022

Current Assets
Current Bank Account
CCLA Church of England Deposit
Bank Deposits
Debtors & Prepayments
Total Current Assets
Current Liabilities
Accruals
Total Current Liabilities
Net Current Assets
Funds
General Fund
Fabric Fund
Clock Appeal
Churchyard Funds
Mission Fund
Education Fund
Harvington Support Fund
Benefice Account		 2022
11,435
3,520
100,000
2,948
117,902
7,762
7,762
110,140
(15,933)
110,281
3,057
11,783
190
53
709
-
110,140		 2021
3,892
13,447
100,000
6,494
123,832
13,174
13,174
110,658
(16,239)
109,691
3,456
12,645
643
53
409
-
110,658

The Revd Canon R Thorniley Chairman of the PCC

Mr John Liggitt Treasurer

Date 17th March 2023

19

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

General Fund (Unrestricted)

Incoming Resources
Incoming Resources from donors
Planned Giving
Collections and other giving
Income tax (GA) recovered
Debtor Gift Aid to be recovered
Other Voluntary incoming resources
Donations
Legacies
Bank & CCLA Interest
Income from activities to further the work of the Church
Fees
Contributions for the use of the Church
Income from operating activities to generate funds
Special Events
Note 2
Sundries
Total Incoming Resources
Resources Expended
Church Activities
Diocesan Parish Share
Church Running Expenses
Utilities
Insurance
Benefice/Clergy Expenses
Organ Expenses
Church Management & Admin
Sundries
Special Events
Total Resources Expended
Transfer to Fabric Fund
Transfer to Mission Fund
Transfer to Churchyard Fund
Surplus/Deficit for year
Opening balance
Closing balance		 22,690
21,892
2,823
1,374
5,951
4,555
191
1,275
31,654
29,096
1,002
350
1,000
-
887
154
2,889
505
76
183
1,000
425
1,076
608
2,458
295
19
-
2,478
295
38,097
30,504
24,550
24,550
-
355
2,323
2,066
2,361
2,287
2,620
4,609
-
-
31,855
33,866
81
175
81
175
250
-
32,185
34,042
4,106
13,247
1,500
1,000
-
1,543
306
(19,328)
(16,239)
3,089
(15,933)
(16,239)
2022
2021		 22,690
21,892
2,823
1,374
5,951
4,555
191
1,275
31,654
29,096
1,002
350
1,000
-
887
154
2,889
505
76
183
1,000
425
1,076
608
2,458
295
19
-
2,478
295
38,097
30,504
24,550
24,550
-
355
2,323
2,066
2,361
2,287
2,620
4,609
-
-
31,855
33,866
81
175
81
175
250
-
32,185
34,042
4,106
13,247
1,500
1,000
-
1,543
306
(19,328)
(16,239)
3,089
(15,933)
(16,239)
2022
2021
1,002
1,000
887
76
1,000
2,458
19
24,550
-
2,323
2,361
2,620
-
30,504
33,866
175
81
-
34,042
13,247
1,000
1,543
(19,328)
3,089
(16,239)

20

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Fabric Fund

Incoming Resources
Planned Giving
Gift Aid
Legacy
Fees
Church Fabric Donations
Total Incoming Resources
Resources Expended
Repairs
Bell Maintenance, Ropes and Stays
Total Resources Expended
Surplus/Deficit for year
Transfer from General Funds
Opening balance
Closing balance		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
-
590
590
165
-
165
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
165
590
755
1,866
2,405
4,271
-
-
-
1,866
2,405
4,271
(1,702)
(1,815)
(3,516)
1,702
2,405
4,106
-
109,691
109,691
-
109,578
110,281
2022		 2021
545
293
100,000
150
100
101,088
6,277
252
6,529
94,559
13,247
1,886
109,691

21

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Clock Appeal (restricted)

Incoming Resources from donors
Donations
Gift Aid
Total Incoming Resources
Resources Expended
Electrical work
Total Resources Expended
Surplus/Deficit for year
Opening balance
Transfer from/(to) General Fund
Closing balance		 -
-
-
-
-
399
399
(399)
3,456
-
3,057
2022		 2,765
691
-
-
3,456
-
-
3,456
-
-
3,456
2021		 2,765
691
-
-
3,456
-
-
3,456
-
-
3,456
2021
399 -
3,456
-
-
3,456

22

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Churchyard Fund

Incoming Resources
PCC Fees
Memorials
Donations
Gift Aid
Total Incoming Resources
Resources Expended
Lawn & Tree Maintenance
General Maintenance
Living Memory
Total Resources Expended
Surplus/Deficit for year
Opening balance
Transfer from Unrestricted
Closing balance		 Unrestricted Restricted
Total
1,958
1,958
-
270
270
-
8
8
-
2
2
1,958
280
2,238
-
1,703
1,703
-
1,195
1,195
-
201
201
-
3,100
3,100
1,958
(2,820)
(862)
12,645
12,645
(2,820)
2,820
-
11,783
-
11,783
2022		 2021
Total
2,867
847
999
231
4,944
2,001
1,388
-
3,389
1,556
9,547
1,543
12,645

23

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Mission Fund (Restricted)

Incoming Resources
Total Incoming Resources
Resources Expended
Harvington Youth Project
Nominated Charities
Total Resources Expended
Surplus/Deficit for year
Transfer from General Fund
Opening balance
Closing balance
Collections from Weddings,
Funerals and Special Services		 2022
380
380
1,500
833
-
-
2,333
(1,953)
1,500
643
190		 2021
643
643
1,207
-
-
-
1,207
(564)
1,000
207
643

24

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Education Fund

2022 2021 Incoming Resources Donations - - Gift Aid - - Total Incoming Resources Resources Expended Peru Mission - - Total Resources Expended Surplus/Deficit for year - - Opening Balance 53 53 Closing Balance 53 53

25

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Harvington Support Fund

Receipts
Donations received
Total Receipts
Payments
Meals & vouchers provided
Other assistance
Total Payments
Surplus/Deficit for year
Opening Balance
Closing Balance		 2022
300
300
-
-
-
300
409
709		 2021
370
370
400
482
882
(512)
921
409

26

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Benefice Account

Receipts
Holiday Club
Arch Messenger
Allocation
Harvington
Others
Total Receipts
Payments
Clergy Expenses
Holiday Club
Arch Messenger
Parish Administrator
Stationery & Photocopying
Pandemic costs ( Handwash & Recorded Services)
Sundries
Total Payments
Surplus/Deficit for year
Opening Balance
Closing Balance		 2022
1,136
3,940
2,620
2,620
10,317
2,862
411
3,590
1,830
1,288
160
175
10,317
-
-
-		 2021
501
2,195
4,609
4,609
11,913
2,652
583
3,403
2,117
1,200
1,714
245
11,913
-
-
-

27

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Notes to the Financial Statements

1 Accounting Policies

Basis of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared under the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS102) ‘Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2015)’ and the Charities Act 2011.

These accounts for the year ended 31 December 2021 are the first accounts for St James' Harvington Parochial Church Council to be prepared in accordance with FRS102. The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The date of transition to FRS 102 was 1 January 2015, the reported financial position and financial performance for the previous period are not affected by FRS102.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for investment assets, which are shown at fair value. 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 their affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Fund accounting

Restricted funds comprise revenue donations or grants for a specific PCC activity intended by the donor. Where these funds have unspent balances, interest on their pooled investment is apportioned to the individual funds on an average balance basis.

Unrestricted funds are income funds which are to be spent on the PCC's general purposes.

Designated funds are general funds set aside by the PCC for use in the future. Project funds are designated for particular projects for administration purposes only. Funds designated as invested in fixed assets for the PCC's own use abated in line with assets' annual depreciation charges in the SOFA. Designated funds remain unrestricted and the PCC will move any surplus to other general funds.

Incoming resources

Planned giving, collections and similar donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognised when the the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is entitled to the use of the resources, their ultimate receipt is considered reasonably certain and the amounts due are reliably quantifiable. Interest as and when accrued by the payer. All incoming resources are accounted for gross.

Resources expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share expected to be paid over is accounted for when due.

All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

28

St James Harvington PCC

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31st December 2022

Notes to the Financial Statements (Continued)

2
Special Events
Summer Fete
Xmas fayre
Tree of Light		 Income
-
2,041
185		 Expenditure
-
250
-		 Net
-
1,791
185		 Net 2021
2,148
1,072
280
Christmas Craft Morning
Jubilee Tea Party
To General Fund		 60
173
2,458		 -
-
250		 60
173
2,209		 (64)
109
3,545

The Summer Fete for 2022 was cancelled due to the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

3 Transfers between Funds

The sum of £1,500 (2021 £1,000) was transferred from the General Fund to the Mission Fund to cover the cost of a £1,500 contribution to Harvington Youth Project.

The sum of £nil (2021: £1,543) was transferred from the General Fund to the Restricted Churchyard Fund to cover ongoing costs of maintaining the Churchyard.

The sum of £4,106 (2021: £13,247) was transferred from the General Fund to the Unrestricted Fabric Fund to cover the cost of repairs and new lighting.

29

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