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2025-12-31-accounts

Including the churches of All Saints, Hanley; Christ Church, Fenton; St Paul's, Mount Pleasant and Stoke Minster (St Peter ad Vincula)

Annual Report and Financial Statements

of the

Parochial Church Council of

Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton For the year ended 31[st] December 2025

Charity registration number: 1193760

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The Parochial Church Council of Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton

Trustees’ Annual Report for the year ended 31[st] December 2025

Charity registration number: 1193760

Objectives and Activities

Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the Incumbent [currently in vacancy], in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The parish comprises of four districts, each with its own place of worship and associated district church council (DCC) that is responsible for the maintenance of the district’s church building. The Reverend Geoffrey Eze takes responsibility for the district of All Saints, Hanley, where the DCC is also responsible for the maintenance of All Saints Church Hall, adjacent to the church. The district of Christ Church, Fenton, St Paul’s, Mount Pleasant and the Minster Church of St Peter ad Vincula rest directly under the responsibility of the Rector.

The PCC is committed to supporting each district church, welcome as many people as possible to worship and enabling them to become part of the Christian community. The PCC coordinates the activity of district church councils as they promote worship locally. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. Also, through nonsacramental activities of hospitality and fellowship we aim to serve people in the local community more broadly.

Public Benefit

The trustees of the PCC are aware of the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit – specifically for the Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit. The trustees have had regard to this guidance in their administration of the Charity. The trustees believe that, by promoting the work of the Church of England in the Ecclesiastical Parish of Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton it helps to promote the whole mission of the Church (pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical) more effectively, within the Ecclesiastical Parish, and that in doing so it provides a benefit to the public by:

To facilitate this work it is important that we maintain the fabric of the four district churches and All Saints Church Hall.

Achievements and Performance

The Team

The Revd Geoff Eze (Team Vicar and Acting Rector) The Revd Alison Thomas (Interim Minister, Stoke Minster, from March 2025) The Revd Alan Gault (Team Vicar, All Saints, from July 2025) The Revd Bill Durose (PtO Associate Minister) The Revd Gloria Harrison (PtO Associate Minister) Paul Adams, parish warden Fiona Fowler, PCC secretary Mark Goodhew, parish treasurer Other PCC members: Don Titley Mark Walmsley PCC members and Parish Safeguarding Officers Diane Dudley and Katrina Rule (undertook their training during 2025 and were formally appointed in February 2026).

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Parish Warden's Report from Paul Adams

It has been a year of unexpected blessing and steady growth for our parish. Despite being in an interregnum, the whole team has pulled together with energy, creativity and commitment. We have not merely maintained what we inherited; we have built on it, grown in numbers and deepened our life together as a worshipping and serving community.

Leadership and Ministry

Revd Alison Thomas, our new interim minister, has brought pastoral warmth, clarity of vision and tireless dedication. Under her leadership we have seen congregational numbers increase, a renewed emphasis on discipleship and the establishment of a regular, growing Bible study group. Alison has also strengthened our links with the Minster School and with local community groups, including scouting, helping the Minster to be a visible and trusted presence in the neighbourhood.

Community, Arts and Music

Thanks to successful grant funding, we welcomed Simon Drakeford as our Community and Arts Manager. Simon has opened up a wide range of new opportunities: community engagement projects, exhibitions, creative investments and a significant expansion in activity that brings new people into the building.

Our music life has flourished under the leadership of Ashley Mellor (Director of Music), Mark Goodhew (Organist) and Laura Goodhew (Events Manager). Concerts and musical support for services have grown impressively, the choir has expanded, and plans are underway for a junior choir—an exciting development for our future worship and outreach.

Governance and Finance

We have seen encouraging progress in governance and safeguarding. Fiona Fowler, our Parish Secretary, has provided trusted administrative support; our new safeguarding officers, Trina Rule and Diane Dudley, have strengthened our safeguarding arrangements; and there has been a welcome increase in people volunteering for the PCC.

Financially we are in a strong position. Mark Goodhew, our new Parish Treasurer, has managed our finances with care and clarity. Through prudent management and new investment coming in, we expect no historic arrears in the common fund and the full payment of our obligations. We are grateful to Kim Benton at the diocese for her guidance and support throughout the year.

Fabric and Operation

Significant work has been undertaken to improve and future-proof our building. Highlights include a brand-new heating system, upgraded lighting, and the re-ordering of furniture to enable larger and more flexible projects and events. These improvements, built on the foundations laid by previous teams, leave us with a solid and adaptable building for worship and community use.

Our day-to-day life is sustained by many faithful volunteers. The cleaning team, led by Andrea Badland, and Andrea’s wider work as verger, have been indispensable. Andrea Jones continues to give outstanding support to the Sunday School, ensuring that Christmas and Easter events are well attended and warmly run. The team of servers, led by Sammy and assisted by Mark, Don, Paul and our new junior recruit Stephen, have offered dedicated support across our services.

Other Parish Churches

All Saints, Joiner Square

I’m pleased that All Saints, Joiner Square is progressing towards a new church plant in partnership with the HTB network. This initiative offers a real opportunity to reach young adults and families, and I look forward to working closely with Revd Alan Gault to support its development and help it flourish in our wider parish life.

Saint Paul’s, Mount Pleasant

Revd Bill Durose continues to serve Saint Paul’s with steadfast dedication. I’m grateful for the practical care shown by Ashley Mellor and his team in maintaining the building to a high standard, which enables worship and community activity to continue unhindered.

Christchurch, Fenton

Revd Geoff has concentrated his ministry on Christchurch, Fenton, bringing focused pastoral attention and leadership to that congregation and its local mission.

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Stoke Minster Report from Revd Alison Thomas

2025 has been a year of growth and new opportunities at Stoke Minster, thanks to the hard work and team spirit of our DCC members and the numerous volunteers from our congregation and surrounding community who support services and church events.

We have identified missional opportunities from community and civic events. The Centenary of the City of Stoke-on-Trent was marked with a special service, and the Minster also welcomed more than 250 guests as part of a giant centenary tea party across the city. The 80[th] anniversaries of VE and VJ Day were marked with civic services. All these were well attended by local people in addition to the dignitaries and, for example, brought together local families of former Japanese prisoners of war to honour their sacrifices.

The national touring Longest Yarn 2 exhibition, celebrating the home front in the Second World War, brought thousands of visitors to the Minster throughout October. We set up a prayer station on a knitting theme, produced prayer cards for people to take away with, and held a special Longest Yarn communion service on the final Sunday of the exhibition. A team of volunteers came together to knit Remembrance poppies for the exhibition and our own Remembrance events. Thanks to social media publicity we received donations of poppies from around the UK and as far afield as Canada.

The knitting group has continued, with a new name of Stoke Minster Crafts & Chat, and meets every Thursday lunchtime, as part of our Place of Welcome/Open at Lunchtime initiative to welcome visitors into church, which launched in 2025.

We marked Baby Loss Awareness month in October 2025 by welcoming the local Wave of Light bereaved parents’ group into church for a quiet and reflective remembrance event. This was well received and they have asked to come back in 2026 for a larger-scale service.

We have welcomed Beaver and Cub groups to the Minster to explore the church and find out about faith, and have strengthened our links with Stoke Minster Primary Academy with a fortnightly assembly at the school, led by Revd Alison, and by welcoming year groups into church to explore faith and history, in addition to the termly services held at the Minster. Children’s work is also supported during the main Sunday service with a group for young children, held in the entrance lobby and which attracts between 3-9 children, plus parents/carers.

We launched a Bible Group in April 2025, which meets on a Thursday afternoon and has explored some of the Pilgrim courses, plus the Church of England’s Advent and Lent materials, and regularly has around 12 attendees.

Part of the congregation at Stoke Minster is ‘passing through’ due to its location as a city centre church. This proportion includes tourists, students, asylum seekers and people on time-limited work visas. We are delighted to welcome them all to our diverse congregation, whose regular members include people from Ukraine, Africa and the Caribbean, Europe, India and South-East Asia. The weekday Eucharist (10 to 18 congregation) and 8am Sunday Eucharist (4-6 congregation) remain steady in number, while we have seen growth in the 10.30am Sunday Eucharist with regular attendance of 50-plus adults (compared with 40-plus the previous year), plus some children.

There were 10 baptisms at the Minster in 2025, plus three weddings, 15 funerals and three memorial services.

Christ Church, Fenton report from Revd Geoff Eze

Christ Church Fenton continues to serve faithfully at the heart of the parish, offering worship, pastoral care, and a place of welcome for the wider community. This report reflects the life of the church during 2025.

Worship and Services

Regular worship has remained at the centre of parish life.

Attendance has remained steady, with a core congregation sustaining the rhythm of worship and supporting one another through fellowship.

Community Engagement

Christ Church has continued to deepen its relationship with the local community through a range of creative and accessible initiatives. These have included:

• Light-themed community events, which have drawn in new participants and strengthened existing relationships. These activities have helped the church remain a place of hospitality, imagination, and gentle outreach, widening the circle of belonging and fostering ongoing connections.

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Fabric, Buildings, and Grants

A significant development this year has been the successful application for the MR&I (2025). The grant has been awarded with additional funding to ensure that any shortfalls are covered. Although this grant does not relate to the previous year’s report, it marks an important milestone for the parish. Work on the church building is scheduled to begin in March 2026, representing a major investment in the future of Christ Church and its role within the community.

Christ Church Fenton remains steady and outward-looking. The faithful commitment of the congregation has ensured that worship has continued unhindered and that community engagement has flourished.

St Paul’s, Mount Pleasant report from Revd Bill Durose

In April this year the church will be celebrating 20 years since the first service in the new building. There have been high and lows during that time and many different clergy conducting the services. For the past three years Revd Bill has conducted nearly all the services, and this has been greatly appreciated by the small but dedicated congregation. We have a full Eucharist service every Sunday at 9am, with two hymns and sermon.

Over the past three years we have lost a number of parishioners who have passed away, including two who passed away this last year. The electoral role now stands at four, with two attending every week. The building has a long-term letting with Ashley Mellor, the Minster organist, who is in the building during the week. He pays a very good rent which enables us to pay our parish share in full every year. Ashley also keeps the building in excellent condition for us, and he maintains the small lawn at the back as well as plants for the edges of the car park.

Thanks to Paul Adams we now get paid for the use of the car park on match days, which brings in some very welcome revenue. We may be small in number, but we are big in heart and if one Sunday you want to go to an early service, then come along where you will be sure of a warm welcome.

All Saints Report from Revd Alan Gault

It was wonderful to be licensed to the Parish in July 2025, and I am grateful to all who attended to support and have welcomed me since. It is exciting to have the opportunity to reopen All Saints Church, and much work has been occurring to make this possible. Again, I am grateful to Paul, Alison, Geoff, Mark and many others who continue to support this transition. The rest of 2025 was spent building connections in the area and beginning partnerships with the education institutions within what would become our new parish, namely, Staffordshire University, Stoke on Trent 6[th] Form College and St Peter’s Academy. It has also been wonderful to build relationships as a volunteer Chaplain with both the YMCA and the Stoke Sea Cadets.

We have begun building a “planting team” through our 4pm Sunday gatherings. These are developing and growing in momentum as people gather to pray for the city and for this church plant which is really brilliant and encouraging as we look towards formally reopening. In February 2026 renovation work on the church hall was able to begin and we are excited to have that space to serve the city of Stoke on Trent.

All Saints is being re-planted in partnership with the HTB Network, becoming a separate ‘parish within a parish’ and setting up its own PCC.

Treasurer’s additional comments on parish finances from Mark Goodhew

All Saints

All outstanding debts are being passed to the new PCC. Charges for energy and water have been supported by the 2025 parish structure due to no income. Outstanding debts from residents in the hall are now finalised and we wish the new parish and the PCC, yet to meet, all the best for the future.

St Paul’s

Income across donations and space hire has reduced year over year, but the costs have roughly remained the same. But the gap between income and receipts is still very good for the size of the congregation.

Christ Church

Donations, net of legacies, have reduced from 2024 by more than 50%, most were attributed to regular giving and this then impacted the ability to claim Gift Aid. A sizable legacy supported the full year accounts alongside dividends from the CCLA investments. The church share has been paid in full, the same as all churches in the Parish. The building works taking place in 2026 will be covered by grants as internal funding is not available.

Stoke Minster

There are continued good levels of activity. Grants funding of many large projects including electrical, benches etc around the grounds, plus supporting staff costs have increased the use of foyer and main church spaces. Activities such as the Longest Yarn 2 have supported donations in the year again. Without this, the church would find it difficult to continue the work. There is further work to be done on managing general costs and finding new ventures to increase congregation levels to support the building and the mission into the future.

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Minster Community and Arts Report from Simon Drakeford

2025 has been a year of great celebration and continued growth in community engagement and the developing role of the Minster supporting the artistic life of the parish and wider city.

City Centenary Celebrations

The Minster played a key role in the city’s centenary celebrations, hosting a variety of events, including a civic service which was well attended by civic guests and the wider community. Events included hosting visitors to the city, a commemorative book launch and the launch of the city council’s Living Heritage app.

A highlight of the centenary was hosting one of the city’s world record breaking tea parties. I was also a member of the steering group that organised the city-wide event. The Minster laid 200 place-settings for afternoon tea, supported by Duchess China, who lent all the fine bone china, and supported by volunteers from YMCA, Voluntary Action Stoke on Trent and the Fenton Doers. The city broke the World Record for the largest number of people in multiple venues taking afternoon tea at the same time and the Minster has the Guiness World Record Breakers certificate to prove it!

The Longest Yarn

The Minster hosted ‘The Longest Yarn 2 – Britain at War’. The exhibition ran for a month, which placed logistical challenges on staffing and the daily rhythm and routine of the Minster. The Minster team and volunteers were amazing and 11,000 visitors were welcomed from the city and across the UK. The arrival of so many visitors to the Minster had a significant positive impact on the local economy with some hospitality businesses opening extra days due to the demand.

This year I had the idea of the Minster creating its own poppy drape. I am grateful to Heather Whieldon for coordinating the work, which received great media coverage. This resulted in poppies being sent in from all over the city and indeed the world! A group of crafters came together every Thursday to produce more poppies and manage the thousands sent in. The Minster now has two beautiful poppy drapes, that tell a story of community and remembrance. The legacy of hosting the Longest Yarn is not entirely quantifiable, but certainly long lasting.

Craft and Chat

An unexpected legacy of hosting the Longest Yarn is Craft and Chat, a group that meets on a Thursday between 12pm and 2pm and is open to all, no experience needed. In addition to the poppies, knitted angels were given out at Christingle and school Christmas services.

Open At Lunch

Every Thursday lunchtime is also Open at Lunch when the Minster is open for people to come in and enjoy the space. Whether this is as someone wanting a place to eat their lunch, take a few moments of quiet, explore the Minster as a tourist or have a chat, all are welcome. As this project grows, different elements have been added: a local Police drop-in; Trading Standards offering advice on keeping safe and warm and other support groups. The Minster is now part of the Place of Welcome and Welcome Space networks.

Christmas Tree and Community Light Switch On

Approximately 350 people came to sing carols with Penkhull Brass Band and Staffordshire Choirs, make willow stars alongside B- Arts, and browse the Christmas market stalls. We welcomed the Lord Mayor of Stoke on Trent and Kelvin The Kiln to perform the light switch on. This event is now firmly in everyone’s Christmas diary and we are seeking funding to secure this event for the next three years.

Community Collaboration

The Minster is used throughout the week by a variety of community groups, which appreciate the central location and the affordability of hiring the space. The Minster also gains greatly by the different groups bringing new people into the church. Festival Stoke bring a great joy to the Minster with their Nature Connects events, which take place in the grounds in all weathers. Attendance has grown from 10 to 15 attendees to around 45 and each event enables local young people and their families to engage with nature and to use the grounds in a positive and respectful manner.

The Minster also works closely with B-Arts and 2025 saw the annual Lantern Parade finish at the church.

At Easter the Minster supported the Star Bikers Egg Run – a phenomenal spectacle which enables the distribution of Easter eggs across the city to those of most need.

The Minster will continue to work with the wider community and develop the use of the Minster, ensuring the Minster continues to be central to the life of the local and wider community.

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Capital and Grant Funded Projects

Working alongside Paul Adams and Revd Alison Thomas, I have also managed the capital grant funded projects. The lighting on the north and south porches and stairs has been replaced and upgraded. All the external doors now have lights and the west path is now lit. All the new lighting is energy efficient and costs considerably less to run, as well as making the Minster look stunning at night.

We are exploring new funding streams to help improve and maintain the Minster as it approaches its bicentennial. Work has also been taking place on a new, grant-funded website, which will launch in 2026 and improve communications as a central, accessible source of information.

Going Forward

We want to do more, which will require additional people. I have applied to Voluntary Action Stoke on Trent for volunteer status, which gives us access to a pool of volunteers, and ensure we meet certain standards. This will be a great opportunity to launch a volunteer recruitment campaign.

To expand our work, I am currently going through the process of getting the Food Hygiene Certificate, which will enable us to sell / serve food throughout the year, and broaden the activities we can offer. This does not affect the food sold at church events. More community events and activities are planned. We hope to reintroduce the community cinema and a variety of art and craft workshops.

The commercial letting of the Minster has been done very gently over the past year, with meetings, MP drop-in sessions and conferences. It is planned to expand this and generate additional income.

The Minter is a busy and passionate community, serving the people of the parish and the wider city. At the core of this busyness is its function as a parish and civic church, which remains at the heart of all we do. I am thankful to have the support of the Revd Alison Thomas and Paul Adams, as well as the congregation, who support me in my work and allow me to try out my ideas - enabling us all to have the doors open and welcome people into the Minster whatever the occasion.

Minster Events Report from Laura Goodhew

The past 12 months have seen a real increase in the number of concerts and events we are running at Stoke Minster, which of course is bringing in much needed revenue for the work of the church, but also encouraging people to enter and use the church building.

In April 2025, we welcomed Social Connective with their Lamplight Concert which was well-attended with around 250 people in the audience. Further local groups used the space throughout the summer with Ceramics City Choir, Newcastle Music Centre, and All Woman Choir, all of which have returned or are returning to use the venue again. The winter period saw an increase in use with the return of Fever as the nights got darker, Medieval Babes returning for another year and Matt Glossop.

During December we also welcomed G4 to Stoke Minster, a group Paul has been trying to get for years! It was our biggest event to date with an audience of 400+ which required our largest team of volunteers yet. Logistically coordinating the bar, toilets, entry and exit from the building and general health and safety felt like a tall order. However, the whole event went smoothly with G4 saying we were one of the friendliest and most accommodating venues they had been to.

Although things have slowed down slightly into the new year, we consistently see events from Fever until the lighter nights alongside a new company called Red Events who have booked six future concerts with us. The ‘Flamenco from Spain’ evening was particularly successful with many positive comments continuing to follow within the community and they are currently in the process of rebooking for 2027. There are also a range of diverse groups enquiring about dates and costings for our wonderful space.

Still to come in 2026 are the Illuminated Orchestra, another new company using the Minster, Newcastle Music Centre, All Woman Choir, Medieval Babes, further events with Red Events and the return of G4. We also have an evening with Carrie Hope Fletcher in October who is a superstar in the world of musical theatre.

A huge thank you must go to all the volunteers who support the events through front of house and refreshments. Without their support and time, we could not run such a successful and continually growing events programme and welcome so many people into our beautiful space.

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Minster Director of Music’s Report from Ashley Mellor

This report covers the period since the last APCM.

Music continues to play an important role in the life of the Minster, with one sung service each week. These services are supported by the Minster Choir, with organ duties shared between Ashley Mellor and Mark Goodhew, and rehearsals taking place twice monthly ahead of services.

Highlights over the past year have included the Civic Carol Service, which was a particularly well-attended and impactful occasion, and a number of valued collaborations with the Staffordshire Choirs Association, helping to strengthen links between the Minster and the wider musical community.

The Minster Choir currently consists of approximately eight regular singers each week. While this remains a committed and capable group, work has begun to strengthen and grow the choir through new outreach initiatives. In particular, we have launched a developing relationship with Stoke Minster Primary School, with the aim of involving more young people in the musical life of the church over time.

Musically, the choir has continued to make good progress, learning a range of new repertoire across the year. Current preparation is focused on the upcoming Easter services and the Priesting Service in June 2026, both of which will be significant moments in the Minster’s calendar.

The organ has received important maintenance work over the past year, including the replacement of trunks and general tuning, helping to ensure its continued reliability and quality. We are also grateful to be able to draw upon the Staffordshire Choirs Association library, which enables us to access a wide range of music while keeping costs to the Minster at a manageable level.

Finally, I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to Paul and Alison for their continued support of music and events within the Minster. Their encouragement and assistance are greatly valued. Looking ahead, priorities will include continuing to build choir numbers, particularly among younger singers, developing the school partnership, and maintaining a high standard of music within services and key events.

Electoral Roll report from Andrea Badland

I am pleased to present the Electoral Roll Officer’s report for the year 2025. This report is the second time I have been called upon to complete this task, after taking the role on in July 2024. This is a summary of the current status of the electoral roll: As of 31 December 2025, the total number of names collectively on the electoral roll stands at 130.

All Saints Church is now run independently from our parish by Revd Alan Gault who celebrated his licensing Service on 29 July 2025. The numbers of parishioners at St Paul's currently stands at 5 following the death of Mary Finch during this year. Christ Church is continuing to increase its congregation. I'm pleased to say that Heather Perry who is unable to get to Stoke Minster now attends Christ Church and their total is 31.

Stoke Minster’s numbers from 2024 have changed as follows Loraine Barnes, Naijy George, Heather Perry and Joel Thomas left our church for various reasons. Deaths during this year include Dorothy Boulton, Winifred Grocott and Brenda Heekes. Following the loss of the above 7 members the congregation now stands at 94.

I confirm that the electoral roll which was prepared anew in full compliance with the Church Representation Rules last year, is continuing to adhere to all Compliance.

I would like to extend my thanks to Rev Bill Durose and Dilys Jobber for their help and support in this important task.

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Minster Tower Captain’s Report from Ray Daw

Like so many churches in these modern times, we are suffering from a lack of good ringers! The standard of our ringing is now unfortunately well below what it used to be 10 or 20 years ago

Our attendance on a Sunday morning used to be 8 or 10, it is now down to 5 or 6. We can just manage to ring Call Changes or Plain Hunt or Bob Doubles. Nevertheless, we are grateful to all those who come to ring and try their best. At least our bells are still being rung for the main Sunday service - unlike many local churches where the bells are silent on a Sunday. We do better for numbers at our Tuesday night practice, when we often get 12 or more ringers present, thanks to the support of ringers from other local towers. We are pleased to see that Geoff Burton (now aged 94) is still ringing, he comes most Tuesday evenings – thanks to Rob Barcroft for providing a door-to door-taxi service.

In accordance with Diocesan Safeguarding Recommendations, I keep a record of the attendance at all our ringing sessions – Sundays, Tuesdays, Saturdays and for Quarter Peals.

Sadly, the number of ringers attending the Ringing School sessions at 10am on Saturday mornings has also fallen. We have been helping ringers from several local towers to make some progress. It's rewarding when we get enough to ring methods other than Plain Bob and Grandsire. We have rung Little Bob, St Clements and occasionally Cambridge Surprise. Most of the Saturday ringing is done on the front 6 but when we have enough to do so, we ring the back 8, to Call Changes, Plain Hunt or Bob Triples. We have a good opportunity to recruit some new ringers coming up; with the next Heritage Open Day in September 2026. The Belfry will be open that day for visitors to come upstairs to watch demonstrations of bell ringing and have a go (under supervision) on the Dumb-Bell. We must make the best of this and any other opportunity to find people (young and old) who can be persuaded to take up bell ringing!!

Thanks to Wayne Thompson for looking after the flag on the tower flagpole and for fitting the muffles or a new stay when required. with some help from Rob Barcroft.

Taylors of Loughborough installed the new grid flooring across the top of the lower bell frame during week beginning 24 March 2025. This has considerably improved safety for those who have to go up the tower to raise the flag, fit a new stay, fit the muffles, service the roof alarm, service the clock, inspect the electrics or clean the gutters. We are grateful to The Friends of Stoke Minster who paid for the work to be done

Quarter Peals: 15 Qtrs were rung at Stoke Minster during 2025: 2 on10 bells; 10 on 8 and 3 on 6.

As is now the tradition, our bells were rung for the new Lord Mayor on Thurs 22 May. We also rang for the City Centenary Celebrations in June. During the year, we welcomed several groups of visiting ringers.

Minster Cleaning Team Report from Andrea Badland

Firstly, I would like to thank all our team members, who are now a highly motivated and skilful team who come into church on the appointed Friday, generally the last Friday in each month. All crack on with their own specific job, which is usually completed within the hour, after which we have coffee and a catch-up. All dates for 2026 have now been agreed and are up on the notices in front of the kitchen.

Following a discussion on our last working Friday we all agreed that due to the encouraging circumstances of the extensive increase we are experiencing in footfall into the Minster that the toilets are not fit for purpose. At the time of this report both the ladies and gentlemen’s toilets have leaking taps, the disabled toilet has experienced a leak in the pipes, the toilet cisterns are too big and carry far more water than is necessary for a short flush and should be replaced with more modern toilets with small cisterns and a dual flush, which will also cut down on the amount of water we use and be healthier for the environment. The tiles need a thorough steam clean for health and safety purposes, all ceilings need to be emulsioned, woodwork painted and the toilet roll holders and waste bins need to be of better quality.

The renovation of the kitchen and toilets that was completed several years ago was adequate for the congregation at that time but because of the quality of the entertainment that is now on offer the toilets need to show the same quality and need upgrading in the very near future.

The South wall is very badly in need of repair. Great care has to be taken when cleaning alongside it because the plaster falls off nearly as quickly as it can be cleaned up. Urgent discussions need to be held to put forward a plan before things get any worse. Finally, the team celebrated all their good work with a Christmas Lunch in December held at The Rabbit Hole and enjoyed by everyone.

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Friends of Stoke Minster report from Peter Chell, chairman

Over the past year the Friends have held several events including open days, coffee mornings, raffles, and tours of the church and churchyard. These were help partly for recreation but primarily to raise funds for church repairs etc.

Our numbers have been generally static but further numbers are required. As chairman, I must thank the members for their hard work and support over the year. We still need greater numbers to support and help the present members so that we can do more for the church. Therefore |I appeal for further members and, as part of our efforts it has been decided to scrap our annual fees and replace them with voluntary donations.

If anyone feels that they could help, please contact the existing members.

Financial Review

Net Total Assets: £605,962_2025 [£567,513_2024] Excess: £57,006_2025 – Unrestricted excess: £22,650 Restricted excess: £34,356 [Excess: £73,115 2024]

The accounts for the parish are consolidated from the accounts of the respective district church councils.

Fenton Christ Church:

Net Total Assets: £365,767_2025 [£388,101_2024] Excess: £2,134_2025 – Unrestricted excess: £334 Restricted excess: £1,800 [Excess: £1,890_2024]

Hanley All Saints:

Net Total Assets: (£23,260)_2025 [(£40,654) 2024] Excess: £17,393_2025 – Unrestricted Excess: £1,334 Restricted Excess: £16,059 [Excess: £2,866 2024]

All Saints Hall – Kinetic Heights Lease

Kinetic Heights are currently leasing All Saints Hall and have been given nine months' notice to vacate the premises in accordance with the terms of the lease, with a scheduled vacation date of January 2026.

Expenditure of £3,138.96 incurred during 2024 to bring the building up to an acceptable standard has been recorded under code Z04 Accounts Payable (Creditor) and nominal code 2560 Hall Running Maintenance. Kinetic Heights have also been invoiced for their use of the building, with the corresponding entries posted to Z04 Accounts Payable and 1230 Church and Church Hall Income, totalling £4,091.

As a result of the 2024 improvement expenditure, Kinetic Heights initially appeared as a creditor in the accounts. Each invoice issued for use of the Hall progressively reduced the amount owed. Once the creditor balance had been fully offset by these invoices, any remaining invoiced amounts were posted to Z05 as a debtor. At the end of 2025, the total amount outstanding from Kinetic Heights stood at £842.

All Saints Hanley – Utility Bills and Inter-Account Transfers

Throughout 2025, Stoke Minster has been meeting utility bill payments on behalf of All Saints Hanley, or transferring funds directly to the 43853012 Hall Account and 90261297 Church Account. These transactions were recorded in Stoke Minster's management accounts under an Agency account designated "All Saints," and carried as debtor balances totalling £4,662.08.

In All Saints' management accounts, the corresponding income was posted to an Agency account designated "Stoke Minster." At year end, the balance of £4,662.08 was transferred to Z04 Accounts Payable, with the offsetting entry posted to the appropriate nominal code. This treatment ensures that the income and expenditure position is correctly reflected in the accounts.

Mount Pleasant St Paul:

Net Total Assets: £7,743_2025 [£5,041 2024] Excess: £2,701_2025 – Unrestricted Excess: £2,701 [Excess: £5,025 2024]

Stoke Minster:

Net Total Assets: £244,645_2025 [£215,025 2024] Excess: £35,020_2025 – Unrestricted Excess: £16,638 Restricted Excess: £18,381 [Excess: £64,532 2024]

Page 10

Each of the district churches is responsible for meeting the local costs of ministry and mission. In addition, each district church council makes contributions towards central costs for the parish in administration.

Common Fund (formerly Parish Share) is the contribution made by each church to the costs of ministry and mission across the Diocese of Lichfield. Each Church pays their share of the Common fund into the account of Stoke Minster and the Diocese debit the full amount of the request each month.

The Common fund request for 2025 was paid in full and the Parish received a total write-off package of £27,055 reducing the liability to £27,055_2025 [£54,110_2024].

Common Fund arrears do not themselves constitute a legally enforceable debt. Were they such, the PCC would be required to take consideration of arrears in reaching a judgement as to whether it continues to be a ‘going concern.’ The PCC would clearly wish to meet its responsibilities in full. Whilst the PCC has been able to accomplish this over the last year, it continues to review its activities in the light of financial reporting.

Reserves Policy

It is PCC policy to try to maintain a balance on free reserves (net current assets) which equates to at least three months unrestricted payments. This is equivalent to £34,411_2025 [£36,690 2024]. It is held to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The balance of the free reserves at the year-end was £55,363_2025 [£33,188 2024] which is higher than this target. In the current uncertain economic climate, the trustees believe that maintaining a healthy reserve provides a strong foundation for the future — enabling the charity to pursue new outreach opportunities as they arise, while ensuring sufficient funds are available to meet any unforeseen circumstances.

Investment Policy

The district churches of Christ Church, Fenton and Stoke Minster both have investments administered by CCLA (and in the latter case also a deposit fund).

The charity is granted power to invest in suitable investments under the PCC Powers Measure 1956 and the Trustees Act 2000. As a charity, the Trustees have a duty of care to take such advice as is appropriate before investments are undertaken. This advice is sought from the Central Board of Finance (CCLA) in London.

The charity’s investment policies are based on two key principles: -

Investment policy for long-term funds is aimed primarily at generating a sustainable income, with due regard to the need for the preservation of capital value, and the possible need to realise investments to meet operational needs. The charity does not have a policy of generating income at excessive or high risk – known as “purchasing income”, where high returns are guaranteed at the expense of capital.

In summary, the charity has an overall policy to maximise income while preserving the real value of its funds. Due to the nature of the charity, an ethical investment policy is taken into consideration when investments are made:

The charity follows the Ethical Investment Advisory policy as recommended by the Lichfield Diocese which includes the following: “We aim to invest in companies that:

Planned giving, collections and donations are the main sources of fund raising along with tax recoverable.

The CBF Investment Fund is managed by CCLA whose statement on investment policy is outlined at www.ccla.co.uk/aboutus/policies-and-reports/policies/climate-change-and-investment-policy – the PCC also notes the Church of England’s General Synod motion on Climate Change approved in February 2020 (see www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/news/general-synodsets-2030-net-zero-carbon-target).

Page 11

Safeguarding

The Parochial Church Council believes that it has fulfilled its 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). A new Parish Safeguarding Officer, Justin Ntambineza, has been recruited but subsequently moved away from Stoke. Two replacements, Diane Dubley and Trina Rule, have been recruited. The Parish Safeguarding Policy is reviewed annually and is available to view at www.safeguarding.stokeminster.org. A copy is also available on display on the noticeboard of district churches.

Reporting Serious Incidents

A Serious Incident is an adverse event, whether actual or alleged, which results in or risks significant harm to the charity’s beneficiaries, employees, office holders, volunteers or to others who come into contact with the charity through its work, loss of the charity’s money or assets, damage to the charity’s property or harm to the charity’s work or reputation.

The trustees have given consideration of potential Serious Incidents and concluded that the threshold for reporting to the Charity Commission was not met in the last year.

Fundraising

The PCC reports on the fundraising activities of the respective district churches in the parish. The PCC is very grateful to all donors – whether regular or occasional – for their support of the church and church events. All money raised is either by donations, fundraising events, special appeals or legacies for which the PCC are most grateful. Neither the PCC or its respective district church councils has used commercial organisations or professional fundraisers.

Volunteers

The members of the PCC would like to thank all the volunteers who work across our district churches in the parish to ensure that we are the welcoming, attractive and inclusive communities that the Church is called to be. Without the support of volunteers, including from those who would not consider themselves necessarily a part of the worshipping community, our churches could not serve their communities as they do.

Risk Management

The Church Wardens carry out regular Health and Safety Reviews and regularly inspect premises for potential hazards. We have safeguarding policies in place for child protection and work with vulnerable adults, including rigorous DBS checking of staff and volunteers. Our insurances are reviewed annually to ensure adequate cover. An informal review of any new risks which may impact the work of the Church in the Parish is ongoing.

Structure, Governance and Management

The PCC is a Body Corporate established by the Church of England (PCC Powers Measure 1956, and the Church Representation Rules 2006) and is a Registered Charity (No. 1193760) . The PCC is governed by the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure (1956) as amended that came into effect on 2nd January 1957, and the Church Representation Rules (CRR). A Scheme for the parish was made under CRR Rule 18 of 1 February 2018. This explains how district church councils are constituted as well as their delegated powers.

A District Church Council is formally a sub-committee of the Parochial Church Council. The PCC has authority to revoke any and all of the automatically delegated powers of a District Church Council (as specified in the Scheme for the Parish of Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton and effective from 1 March 2018) whilst such District Church Council is in abeyance and not otherwise constituted (as agreed at a Special Parochial Church Meeting (09/11/2022).

The method of appointment of the PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. The Council comprises the Incumbent, the Churchwardens, those elected to the Deanery Synod, and other members who are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, by those on the Electoral Roll as well as those elected to serve on the PCC by respective annual meetings of the four district churches. The PCC members receive training from courses run by the Diocese. Members of the congregation are always urged to join the Electoral Roll, and to stand for election to the PCC as well as their respective DCC. The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance in the parish, and for all financial matters. The PCC met 4 times during the year.

Page 12

PCC Membership

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) usually meets in May each year to elect members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) for the following year. With the exception of those elected to the Deanery Synod on a three-year term of membership, all members of the PCC are elected on a one year term in accordance with the Scheme for the parish (see above).

PCC Standing Committee

In view of the small size of the Council, no Standing Committee of the Council was constituted, all business, in effect, being conducted by the full Council as necessary.

Related Parties

Trustees’ Remuneration & Expenses

No trustees received remuneration from the PCC in association with their role on the trustee body.

1 trustee has been paid £1,361_2025 [£1,992_2024] for travel and subsistence during the year.

Related Parties

No other expenses were paid to any other PCC member, persons closely connected to them, or related parties.

Donations from 2 related parties (PCC members) totalled £740 2024 [£2,240 2024].

Page 13

Reference and Administrative Details

Charity Name: The Parochial Church Council of The Parish of Stoke and Fenton

Other names the charity is known by: N/A Registered Charity Number : 1193760

Charity’s principal address: Stoke Rectory,172 Smithpool Road Stoke-on-Trent ST4 4PP. Correspondence address: Stoke Rectory,172 Smithpool Road Stoke-on-Trent ST4 4PP. Website address: www.achurchnearyou.com

PCC Members: Who Served from 1 January 2025 to the date this report was approved

Trustee name Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
period
Ex-Officio
Paul Adams Parish and District Warden [Stoke Minster] - Chairperson
Rev Geoff Eze Team Vicar
Rev Alison Thomas Interim Minister From 18.05.25
The Revd Bill Durose Associate Minister
The Revd Gloria Harrison Associate Minister
Sam Rushton Deanery Synod [Christ Church] Resigned 18.05.25
Helen Fiona Fowler Lay Representative [Stoke Minster]
Elected Members
Mark Goodhew Treasurer
Ashley Mellor Director of Music From 18.05.25
Mark Walmsley From 18.05.25
Donald Titley From 18.05.25
Pauline Clayton Lay Representative [Stoke Minster] Resigned 18.05.25

Page 14

Bank Barclays Bank Plc, Birmingham Kings Heath, Leicester Leicestershire LE87 2BB

Investment CCLA Managers 1 Angel Ln London EC4R 3AB Independent Examiner Lichfield Diocesan Board of Finance St Mary’s House, The Close, Lichfield. WS13 7LD

Approved by the PCC on 19.04.25and signed on its behalf by:

Page 15

Independent Examiner’s report to the trustees/members of the PCC of Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton

Registered charity number: 1193760

I report on the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2025 which are set out on the following pages.

Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and Independent Examiner

The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under Section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility

Basis of Independent Examiner's Statement

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

Independent Examiner's Statement

In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention (other than that disclosed below *) which gives me cause to believe that in any material respect:

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

Signed Date:

Lichfield Diocesan Board of Finance

St Marys House, The Close, Lichfield. WS13 7LD

Page 16

The Parish of Stoke and Fenton Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31[st] December 2025

Accounting Policies

The Financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis.

There may be minor discrepancies in the totals as the pence are not being shown.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notes to these accounts. 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 main affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members.

Cashflow Statement

The Charity has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS102 from the requirement to produce a cashflow statement on the grounds that the income does not exceed £500,000.

Going Concern

There are no material uncertainties that relate to events or conditions that cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Accounting Estimates and Prior Year Errors

No changes to accounting estimates have occurred in the reporting period. No material prior year errors have been identified in the reporting period.

Description of Funds

Unrestricted funds are income funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC, including amounts designated by the PCC for fixed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and which are therefore not included in its "free reserves" as disclosed in the trustees' annual report.

An explanation of purpose of each Designated fund is as follows:

Fenton Christ Church

Hanley All Saints

Stoke Minster

Page 17

Restricted funds comprise of two elements :-

An explanation of purpose of each Restricted fund is as follows:

Fenton Christ Church

Hanley All Saints

Stoke Minster

Endowment funds are restricted funds that must be retained as trust capital either permanently or subject to a discretionary power to spend capital as income, and where the use of any income or other benefit derived from the capital may be restricted or unrestricted. Full details of all their restrictions are shown in the notes to the accounts.

An explanation of purpose of each Endowment fund are as follows:

Fenton Christ Church

Incoming Resources

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received or when the PCC becomes entitled to the resource and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and Legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due, and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Dividends are accounted for when receivable, interest is accrued. All other income is recognised when it is receivable. 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 is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Governance and Support Costs

Support costs should be allocated between governance costs and other support. Governance costs comprise all costs involving public accountability of the PCC and its compliance with regulation and good practice.

Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources eg by allocating staff costs by time spent and other costs by their usage.

Page 18

Fixed Assets

Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts by s.10(2)(a)&(C) of the Charities Act 2011. Moveable church furnishings held by the Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the Church’s inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements.

No depreciation is provided on buildings as the currently estimated residual value of the properties is not less than their carrying value and the remaining useful life of these assets exceeds 50 years, so that any depreciation charges would be immaterial. Other tangible fixed assets are valued at cost. The depreciation rates and methods used are 50% per annum.

Investments

Investments in quoted shares, traded bonds and similar investments are valued initially at cost and subsequently at market value at the year end. Investments held for re-sale are treated as current asset investments.

Debtors

Debtors are measured on initial recognition at settlement amount. Subsequently they are measured as cash expected to be received.

Creditors and Accruals

Creditors are measured at settlement amounts less any trade discounts. Accruals are measured on best estimate of the amount required to settle the obligation at the reporting date.

Page 19

Parochial Church Council of Stoke-upon-Trent & Fenton Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31[st] December 2024

Receipts and Payments Account 2025

Unrestricted
funds
Designated
funds
Restricted
funds
Endowment
funds
2025
2024
Receipts
Donations and legacies
Income from charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other income
Total income
Payments
Raising funds
Expenditure on charitable activities
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
Net income / (expenditure) resources before transfer
Transfers
Gross transfers between funds - in
Gross transfers between funds - out
Other recognised gains / losses
Gains/losses on investment assets
Gains on revaluation, fixed assets, charity's own use
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
122,828
-
76,875
-
199,703 223,052
19,376
-
-
-
19,376
16,393
5,298
-
-
-
5,298
5,661
16,020
829
1,573
-
18,424
12,678
-
-
-
-
-
-
163,524
829
78,449
-
242,803 257,785
27,403
-
3,112
-
30,516
19,128
110,243
4,055
40,980
-
155,279 165,541
-
-
-
-
-
-
137,647
4,055
44,093
-
185,796 184,669
25,877
(3,227)
34,356
-
57,006
73,115
10,314
13,045
972
-
24,331
85,996
(14,018)
(9,705)
(610)
-
(24,332) (85,997)
-
-
(3,358)
(16,543)
(19,901) 11,138
-
-
1,342
-
1,342
-
22,174
114
32,703
(16,543)
38,449
84,254
33,188
4,082
116,441
413,800
567,513 483,259
55,363
4,196
149,145
397,257
605,962 567,513

Page 20

Statement of assets and liabilities 2025

Class and nominal code General **Designated ** **Restricted ** Endowment 2025 2024
Fixed Asset - Investments
CB3008427: CCLA Lichfield Diocesan TN 1256: Fenton St
Michael
- - - 165,170 165,170 172,049
CB3008621 : CCLA Lichfield Diocesan TN 861 - Fenton - - 80,624 - 80,624 83,981
CB3028276: CCLA: Fenton Christ Church PCC - Church Wardens
A/C
- - - 102,422 102,422 106,688
CB3033133: CBF Inv Fund - Minster - - - 129,663 129,663 135,063
Total - - 80,624 397,257 **477,881 ** 497,782
Current Asset - Cash At Bank And In Hand
05222745: NatWest Current Account - St Paul 4,174 - - - 4,174 4,785
06015549: NatWest Current Account - Christ Church 4,447 - 932 - 5,379 11,256
15562654: NatWest Restoration Account - Christ Church 2,737 10,000 - - 12,737 2,677
15596419: NatWest Reserve Account - Christ Church - 3,792 - - 3,792 3,750
30075833: Barclays Current - Minster 28,100 4,858 47,025 - 79,984 77,738
38842947: NatWest Fees Account - Christ Church 6,380 - - - 6,380 8,302
43355668: NatWest Savings Account - St Paul 3,568 - - - 3,568 3,529
43853012: Barclays Hall - All Saints 998 (439) (550) - 10 295
6591: Cash for Banking - SM 31 - - - 31 44
90261297: Barclays Current - All Saints 3,650 (10,950) 7,300 - 0 537
CB3028459: CCLA - Stoke Minster 29,081 - 13,402 - 42,484 34,305
IDFENT012: IDS Decoration Account - - 1,257 - 1,257 -
ZZ6590: Cash in hand - All Saints - - - - - 29
ZZ6590: Petty Cash - Minster - - - - - 69
Total 83,170 7,263 69,368 - **159,802 ** 147,321
Current Asset - Debtors
Z05: Accounts Receivable 842 - - - 842 -
Total 842 - - - 842 -
Liability - Agency Accounts
6699: Agency collections - - 846 - 846 7,421
Total - - 846 - 846 7,421
Liability - Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year
DLHANL012 > 1 Year: Diocesan Loan - All Saints (> 1 yr) - - - - - 16,059
Total - - - - - 16,059
Liability - Creditors: Amounts Falling Due In One Year
PSSTOK01 - AllSaints: LDBF Common Fund Arrears 14,974 - - - 14,974 20,659
PSSTOK01 S Minster: LDBF Common Fund Arrears 12,080 - - - 12,080 30,176
PSSTOK01 St Paul: LDBF Common Fund Arrears - - - - - 3,273
Z04: Accounts Payable 1,594 3,067 - - 4,662 -
Total 28,649 3,067 - - 31,717 54,110
Net total assets 55,363 4,196 149,145 397,257 **605,962 ** 567,513

Approved by the PCC on 19.04.25 and signed on its behalf by:

Page 21

Statement of assets and liabilities 2024
Class and nominal code General **Designated ** **Restricted ** Endowment 2024 2023
Fixed Asset - Investments
CB3008427: CCLA Lichfield Diocesan TN 1256: Fenton St
Michael
- - - 172,049 172,049 168,199
CB3008621: CBF Inv Fund - LDT Stoke Fenton - moved to Fenton
licence

-
- - - - 82,102
CB3008621 : CCLA Lichfield Diocesan TN 861 - Fenton - - 83,981 - 83,981 -
CB3028276: CCLA: Fenton Christ Church PCC - Church Wardens
A/C
- - - 106,688 106,688 104,300
CB3033133: CBF Inv Fund - Minster - - - 135,063 135,063 132,041
Total - - 83,981 413,800 **497,782 ** 486,643
Current Asset - Cash At Bank And In Hand
05222745: NatWest Current Account - St Paul 4,785 - - - 4,785 4,168
06015549: NatWest Current Account - Christ Church 1,256 10,000 - - 11,256 15,302
15562654: NatWest Restoration Account - Christ Church 2,677 - - - 2,677 2,638
15596419: NatWest Reserve Account - Christ Church - 3,750 - - 3,750 3,697
30075833: Barclays Current - Minster 50,122 (8,187) 35,802 - 77,738 37,457
38842947: NatWest Fees Account - Christ Church 7,698 - 604 - 8,302 4,883
43355668: NatWest Savings Account - St Paul 3,529 - - - 3,529 3,336
43853012: Barclays Hall - All Saints 929 (84) (550) - 295 698
6590: Petty Cash - Minster 69 - - - 69 139
6591: Cash for Banking - SM (398) - 442 - 44 971
90261297: Barclays Current - All Saints 3,232 (10,316) 7,620 - 537 307
CB3028459: CCLA - Stoke Minster 13,366 8,916 12,021 - 34,305 31,639
138412064: National Savings - All Saints - - - - - 1,952
6590: Cash in hand - All Saints 29 - - - 29 29
Total 87,298 4,082 55,940 - **147,321 ** 107,222
Liability - Agency Accounts
6699: Agency collections - - 7,421 - 7,421 13,382
Total - - 7,421 - 7,421 13,382
Liability - Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year
DLHANL012 > 1 Year: Diocesan Loan - All Saints (> 1 yr) - - 16,059 - 16,059 16,059
Total - - 16,059 - 16,059 16,059
Liability - Creditors: Amounts Falling Due In One Year
PSSTOK01 - AllSaints: LDBF Common Fund Arrears 20,659 - - - 20,659 26,070
PSSTOK01 S Minster: LDBF Common Fund Arrears 30,176 - - - 30,176 47,762
PSSTOK01 St Paul: LDBF Common Fund Arrears 3,273 - - - 3,273 7,331
Total 54,110 - - - 54,110 81,165
Net total assets 33,188 4,082 116,441 413,800 **567,513 ** 483,259

Page 22

Analysis of income and expenditure 2025

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment 2025
2024
RECEIPTS
Donations and legacies
0101 - Regular Giving (Gift Aid)
0201 - Regular Giving (Non Gift Aid)
0301 - Loose Plate Collections
0302 - Collections Weddings/Funerals/Baptism
0303 - Contactless
0550 - Donations
0601 - Tax Recoverable on Gift Aid
0701 - Legacies
08A1 - Non-recurring One-off Grants
0901 - Other Funds generated
Donations and legacies Totals
Income from charitable activities
0410 - Votive Candles/Wall Safe
0902 - Heating Weddings&Funerals
1101 - Statutory Fees for Weddings and Funerals
1230 - Church Bookings Income
Income from charitable activities Totals
Other trading activities
1225 - Income from Car Parking
1230 - Church & Church Hall Income
Other trading activities Totals
Investments
1001 - Dividends
1020 - Bank and Building Society Interest
Investments Totals
Receipts Grand totals
PAYMENTS
Raising funds
1720 - Costs of stewardship campaign
1730 - Costs of Fundraising
1740 - Bank Charges
Raising funds Totals
Expenditure on charitable activities
1720 - Stewardship
1801 - Mission Giving and Donations
1910 - Diocesan Common Fund
1915 - Common Fund 2024
2001 - Salaries and Wages
2060 - Organist Fees
2101 - Clergy & Staff Expenses
2150 - Vicar's telephone
2201 - Parish Mission & Training
13,069
-
-
-
13,069
17,578
4,781
-
-
-
4,781
4,817
8,409
-
-
-
8,409
6,363
2,032
-
-
-
2,032
2,211
20,022
-
-
-
20,022
12,293
14,512
-
4,625
-
19,137
52,927
6,893
-
-
-
6,893
11,397
17,735
-
-
-
17,735
38,704
27,055
-
72,250
-
99,305
72,955
8,316
-
-
-
8,316
3,804
122,828
-
76,875
-
199,703 223,052
915
-
-
-
915
1,058
638
-
-
-
638
2,004
5,738
-
-
-
5,738
8,748
12,084
-
-
-
12,084
4,582
19,376
-
-
-
19,376
16,393
3,378
-
-
-
3,378
3,101
1,920
-
-
-
1,920
2,560
5,298
-
-
-
5,298
5,661
13,831
-
-
-
13,831
11,668
2,189
829
1,573
-
4,592
1,010
16,020
829
1,573
-
18,424
12,678
163,524
829
78,449
-
242,803 257,785
-
-
-
-
-
165
27,374
-
3,112
-
30,487
18,962
29
-
-
-
29
0
27,403
-
3,112
-
30,516
19,128
-
-
-
-
-
171
525
-
-
-
525
525
45,000
-
-
-
45,000
45,000
1,900
-
-
-
1,900
-
990
-
-
-
990
-
6,840
-
-
-
6,840
4,666
1,394
-
-
-
1,394
1,992
40
-
-
-
40
155
2,001
-
10,044
-
12,045
2,294

Page 23

2301 - Church Insurance
2310 - Church - Telephone
2320 - Organ / Piano Tuning
2330 - Church Maintenance
2331 - Cleaning
2340 - Upkeep of Services
2350 - Photocopier Costs
2360 - Administration
2370 - Visiting speakers / locums
2420 - Church running - water
2440 - Church running - heating and lighting
2560 - Hall running - maintenance
2580 - Church Hall - Water
2590 - Church Hall - Heating & Lighting
2701 - Church Major Repairs
Expenditure on charitable activities Totals
Payments Grand totals
9,474
-
-
-
9,474
10,507
425
-
-
-
425
412
-
-
5,616
-
5,616
149
9,583
-
4,215
-
13,798
10,436
47
-
-
-
47
213
1,351
-
3,555
-
4,907
1,153
-
-
-
-
-
195
12,289
-
7,410
-
19,699
7,587
-
-
-
-
-
10
630
-
-
-
630
754
14,520
-
-
-
14,520
16,881
3,138
132
-
-
3,271
-
89
300
-
-
389
329
-
3,623
-
-
3,623
1,502
-
-
10,140
-
10,140
60,604
110,243
4,055
40,980
-
155,279 165,541
137,647
4,055
44,093
-
185,796 184,669

Page 24

Fund movement by type – 2025

Fund Opening
Incoming
Outgoing
Transfers
Gains/Losses
Journals
Closing
Benches
Restricted
Sub-totals
Charity - Minster
Restricted
Sub-totals
Choir - Minster
Restricted
Sub-totals
Christ Church Fenton
Restricted
Endowment
Sub-totals
Decoration
Restricted
Sub-totals
Endowment - Minster
Endowment
Sub-totals
Fabric - CC
Designated
Sub-totals
Hall - All Saints
Designated
Sub-totals
Heating - All S
Restricted
Sub-totals
History Project
Restricted
Sub-totals
Lighting
Restricted
Sub-totals
Organ - Minster
Restricted
Sub-totals
Quinquennial
Restricted
-
12,549
12,549
-
-
-
-
-
12,549
12,549
-
-
-
-
392
-
-
-
-
-
392
392
-
-
-
-
-
392
149
-
-
-
-
-
149
149
-
-
-
-
-
149
83,981
-
-
-
(3,358)
-
80,624
278,737
-
-
-
(11,144)
-
267,593
362,718
-
-
-
(14,501)
-
348,218
-
25
-
-
-
1,232
1,257
-
25
-
-
-
1,232
1,257
135,063
-
-
-
(5,400)
-
129,663
135,063
-
-
-
(5,400)
-
129,663
10,000
-
-
-
-
-
10,000
10,000
-
-
-
-
-
10,000
(10,400)
-
4,055
-
-
-
(14,456)
(10,400)
-
4,055
-
-
-
(14,456)
825
-
-
-
-
-
825
825
-
-
-
-
-
825
-
1,300
-
-
-
-
1,300
-
1,300
-
-
-
-
1,300
30,090
35,062
15,405
-
-
-
49,746
30,090
35,062
15,405
-
-
-
49,746
12,502
6,173
5,616
342
-
-
13,402
12,502
6,173
5,616
342
-
-
13,402
-
-
110
-
-
110
-

Page 25

Sub-totals
-
-
110
-
-
110
-
Reserve - CC
Designated
3,750
42
-
-
-
-
3,792
Sub-totals
3,750
42
-
-
-
-
3,792
Restoration - All S
Restricted
(14,612)
16,059
-
-
-
-
1,448
Sub-totals
(14,612)
16,059
-
-
-
-
1,448
Team - Minster
Designated
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
4,858
Sub-totals
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
4,858
ZZChristmas
Restricted
2,493
-
2,493
-
-
-
-
Sub-totals
2,493
-
2,493
-
-
-
-
ZZCommunity Champion
Restricted
619
7,280
7,919
20
-
-
-
Sub-totals
619
7,280
7,919
20
-
-
-
ZZFabric - Minster
Designated
(4,129)
787
-
3,340
-
-
-
Sub-totals
(4,129)
787
-
3,340
-
-
-
General
Unrestricted
33,188
163,524
137,647
(3,703)
-
-
55,363
Sub-totals
33,188
163,524
137,647
(3,703)
-
-
55,363
-
-
110
-
-
110
-
3,750
42
-
-
-
-
3,792
3,750
42
-
-
-
-
3,792
(14,612)
16,059
-
-
-
-
1,448
(14,612)
16,059
-
-
-
-
1,448
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
4,858
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
4,858
2,493
-
2,493
-
-
-
-
619
7,280
7,919
20
-
-
-
(4,129)
787
-
3,340
-
-
-
(4,129)
787
-
3,340
-
-
-
33,188
163,524
137,647
(3,703)
-
-
55,363
33,188
163,524
137,647
(3,703)
-
-
55,363
Totals 567,513
242,803
185,796
-
(19,901)
1,342
605,962

Page 26

Fund movement by type – 2024

Fund Opening
Incoming
Outgoing
Transfers
Gains/Losses
Journals
Closing
Charity - Minster
Restricted
Sub-totals
Choir - Minster
Restricted
Sub-totals
Christ Church Fenton
Restricted
Endowment
Sub-totals
Christmas
Restricted
Sub-totals
CIF
Restricted
Sub-totals
Comm
Designated
Sub-totals
Community Champion
Restricted
Sub-totals
Endowment - Minster
Endowment
Sub-totals
Fabric - CC
Designated
Sub-totals
Fabric - Minster
Designated
Sub-totals
Hall - All Saints
Designated
Sub-totals
Heating - All S
Restricted
Sub-totals
Lighting
Restricted
392
-
-
-
-
-
392
392
-
-
-
-
-
392
149
-
-
-
-
-
149
149
-
-
-
-
-
149
-
-
-
82,102
1,879
-
83,981
272,500
-
-
(82,103)
6,237
82,102
278,737
272,500
-
-
-
8,116
82,102
362,718
-
8,780
6,286
-
-
-
2,493
-
8,780
6,286
-
-
-
2,493
17
-
-
(17)
-
-
-
17
-
-
(17)
-
-
-
174
-
-
(175)
-
-
-
174
-
-
(175)
-
-
-
-
7,280
6,660
-
-
-
619
-
7,280
6,660
-
-
-
619
214,143
-
-
-
3,022
(82,103)
135,063
214,143
-
-
-
3,022
(82,103)
135,063
10,000
-
-
-
-
-
10,000
10,000
-
-
-
-
-
10,000
6,937
-
11,065
-
-
-
(4,129)
6,937
-
11,065
-
-
-
(4,129)
(8,568)
-
1,831
-
-
-
(10,400)
(8,568)
-
1,831
-
-
-
(10,400)
825
-
-
-
-
-
825
825
-
-
-
-
-
825
-
30,090
-
-
-
-
30,090

Page 27

Sub-totals
Organ - Minster
Restricted
Sub-totals
Reserve - CC
Designated
Sub-totals
Restoration - All S
Restricted
Sub-totals
Team - Minster
Designated
Sub-totals
General
Unrestricted
Sub-totals
-
30,090
-
-
-
-
30,090
11,907
655
60
-
-
-
12,502
11,907
655
60
-
-
-
12,502
-
53
-
3,697
-
-
3,750
-
53
-
3,697
-
-
3,750
(14,982)
370
-
-
-
-
(14,612)
(14,982)
370
-
-
-
-
(14,612)
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
4,858
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
4,858
(15,098)
210,556
158,764
(3,507)
-
-
33,188
(15,098)
210,556
158,764
(3,507)
-
-
33,188
Totals 483,259
257,785
184,669
-
11,138
-
567,513

Staff Costs

The PCC did not have any employees in the previous or current year

There were no employee benefits to key management personnel in the previous or current year.

Trustees’ Remuneration & Expenses

No trustees received remuneration from the PCC in association with their role on the trustee body.

1 trustee has been paid £1,361_2025 [£1,992_2024] for travel and subsistence during the year.

Related Parties

No other expenses were paid to any other PCC member, persons closely connected to them, or related parties.

Donations from 2 related parties (PCC members) totalled £740_2025 [£2,240_2024]

Other Parties

BAMMEKE AND HABERFELNER WORLDWIDE LIMITED Company Number 14253854 holds its registered office at All Saints Church Hall. The company is financially independent of the PCC and as such its affairs do not feature in the PCC’s accounts. The company was dissolved on 9 July 2024

Page 28

Fees for the examination of the accounts

2025
£
2024
£
Independent Examiner’s
fees
245 300
Other fees (eg accountancy
services) paid to the
Independent Examiner
3,066 2,940
Total 3,311 3,240

Page 29

Analysis of Transfer between Funds 2025

----- Start of picture text -----
Debit Credit Description Fund Fund Type
Tfr from General to Community Champion to bring to nil
- 1,205.99 and close General Unr
Tfr from General to Community Champion to bring to nil
1,205.99 - and close ZZCommunity Champion Res
Tfr from General to Community Champion to bring to nil
- -1,205.99 and close General Unr
Tfr from General to Community Champion to bring to nil
-1,205.99 - and close ZZCommunity Champion Res
Tfr from General to Fabric to bring to nil #5833 contra
- 13,045.03 £9,704.32 in #8459 General Unr
Tfr from General to Fabric to bring to nil #5833 contra
13,045.03 - £9,704.32 in #8459 ZZFabric - Minster Des
Tfr from Organ to General 6590_Contra Tfr from General
- 392.03 to Organ 30075833 General Unr
Tfr from Organ to General 6590_Contra Tfr from General
392.03 - to Organ 30075833 Organ - Minster Res
Tfr from Charity to General 6590_Contra Tfr from
- 392.03 General to Charity 30075833 General Unr
Tfr from Charity to General 6590_Contra Tfr from
392.03 - General to Charity 30075833 Charity - Minster Res
- 20 Tfr from General to Community to bring to nil General Unr
20 - Tfr from General to Community to bring to nil ZZCommunity Champion Res
Tfr from General to Organ in 30075833_Contra posted
- 167.97 in CB3028459 General Unr
Tfr from General to Organ in 30075833_Contra posted
167.97 - in CB3028459 Organ - Minster Res
Tfr from Charity to General 6590_Contra Tfr from
- 392.03 General to Charity 30075833 Charity - Minster Res
Tfr from Charity to General 6590_Contra Tfr from
392.03 - General to Charity 30075833 General Unr
Tfr from Organ to General 6590_Contra Tfr from General
- 50 to Organ 30075833 Organ - Minster Res
Tfr from Organ to General 6590_Contra Tfr from General
50 - to Organ 30075833 General Unr
Tfr from General to Fabric to bring to nil #5833 contra
- 9,704.32 £9,704.32 in #8459 ZZFabric - Minster Des
Tfr from General to Fabric to bring to nil #5833 contra
9,704.32 - £9,704.32 in #8459 General Unr
Tfr from General to Organ in 30075833_Contra posted
- 167.97 in CB3028459 Organ - Minster Res
Tfr from General to Organ in 30075833_Contra posted
167.97 - in CB3028459 General Unr
----- End of picture text -----

Page 30

Analysis of Transfer between Funds 2024

----- Start of picture text -----
Debit Credit Description Fund Fund Type
Tfr from General to reserve as not shown in the
accounts in 2023 and this is the balance of the
- 3,378.03 reserve account General Unr
Tfr from General to reserve as not shown in the
accounts in 2023 and this is the balance of the
3,378.03 - reserve account Reserve - CC Des
Tfr from General to Reserve Des interest posted
- 319.27 incorrectly in previous years General Unr
Tfr from General to Reserve Des interest posted
319.27 - incorrectly in previous years Reserve - CC Des
Tfr from Endowment to Restricted see email JH
82,105.45 - 02.09.24 Christ Church Fenton Res
Tfr from Endowment to Restricted see email JH
- 82,105.45 02.09.24 Christ Church Fenton End
3 - Tfr from restricted to endowment to clear Christ Church Fenton End
- 3 Tfr from restricted to endowment to clear Christ Church Fenton Res
----- End of picture text -----

Fixed Assets 2025

a) Tangible fixed assets

The PCC of Stoke and Fenton do not hold any tangible fixed assets

b) Fixed asset investments

Fixed Asset Investments
At 1st Jan
£

Additions
£

Disposals
£

Transfers
£

Change in
Market
Value £
At 31st Dec
£
Endowment funds
Christ Church Fenton 278,737 - - - (11,143) 267,594
Minster Church of St Peter 135,063 - - - (5,400) 129,663
Restricted Funds
Christ Church Fenton 83,981 - - - (3,357) 80,624
Total 497,782 - - - (19,901) 477,881

CCLA Lichfield Diocesan Trust TN1256 – Fenton CB3008427: £165,170_2025 [£172,049_2024] CCLA Lichfield Diocesan Trust TN861 – Fenton CB3008621: £80,624_2025 [£83,981_2024] CCLA Fenton Christ Church CB3028276: £102,422_2025 [£106,688_2024] CCLA Stoke Minster CB3033133: £129,663_2025 [£135,063_2024]

Page 31

Liabilities

2025
£
2024
£
Agency 5,509 7,421
LDBF Loan > 1year - 16,059
LDBF Common Fund arrears 27,055 54,110
Z04: Accountspayable 4,662 -
Total 37,226 77,590

Debtors

2025
£
2024
£
Z05: Kinetic Heights 842 -
Agency: All Saints 4,662 -
Total 5,504 -

*Agency £5,509 - £4,662 shown as net_£842

Page 32

Summary of Assets by Fund 2025

Restricted - Charity - Minster
Restricted - Choir - Minster
Endowment - Christ Church Fenton
Restricted - Christ Church Fenton
Restricted - Decoration
Endowment - Endowment - Minster
Designated - Fabric - CC
Unrestricted - General
Designated - Hall - All Saints
Restricted - Heating - All S
Restricted - History Project
Restricted - Lighting
Restricted - Organ - Minster
Designated - Reserve - CC
Restricted - Restoration - All S
Designated - Team - Minster
Restricted - ZZChristmas
Restricted - ZZCommunity Champion
Designated - ZZFabric - Minster
Total
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Endowment
2025
2024
-
-
392
-
392
392
-
-
149
-
149
149
-
-
-
267,593
267,593
278,737
-
-
80,624
-
80,624
83,981
-
-
1,257
-
1,257
-
-
-
-
129,663
129,663
135,063
-
10,000
-
-
10,000
10,000
55,363
-
-
-
55,363
33,188
-
(14,456)
-
-
(14,456)
(10,400)
-
-
825
-
825
825
-
-
1,300
-
1,300
-
-
-
49,746
-
49,746
30,090
-
-
13,402
-
13,402
12,502
-
3,792
-
-
3,792
3,750
-
-
1,448
-
1,448
(14,612)
-
4,858
-
-
4,858
4,858
-
-
-
-
-
2,493
-
-
-
-
-
619
-
-
-
-
-
(4,129)
55,363
4,196
149,145
397,257
605,962
567,513

Summary of Assets by Fund 2024

Restricted - Charity - Minster
Restricted - Choir - Minster
Endowment - Christ Church Fenton
Restricted - Christ Church Fenton
Restricted - Christmas
Restricted - CIF
Designated - Comm
Restricted - Community Champion
Endowment - Endowment - Minster
Designated - Fabric - CC
Designated - Fabric - Minster
Unrestricted - General
Designated - Hall - All Saints
Restricted - Heating - All S
Restricted - Lighting
Restricted - Organ - Minster
Designated - Reserve - CC
Restricted - Restoration - All S
Designated - Team - Minster
Total
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Endowment
2024
2023
-
-
392
-
392
392
-
-
149
-
149
149
-
-
-
278,737
278,737
272,500
-
-
83,981
-
83,981
-
-
-
2,493
-
2,493
-
-
-
-
-
-
17
-
-
-
-
-
174
-
-
619
-
619
-
-
-
-
135,063
135,063
214,143
-
10,000
-
-
10,000
10,000
-
(4,129)
-
-
(4,129)
6,937
33,188
-
-
-
33,188
(15,098)
-
(10,400)
-
-
(10,400)
(8,568)
-
-
825
-
825
825
-
-
30,090
-
30,090
-
-
-
12,502
-
12,502
11,907
-
3,750
-
-
3,750
-
-
-
(14,612)
-
(14,612)
(14,982)
-
4,858
-
-
4,858
4,858
33,188
4,082
116,441
413,800
567,513
483,259

Page 33

Receipts & Payments Comparatives

Previous Year 2024

Receipts and Payments Account 2024

Unrestricted
funds
Designated
funds
Restricted
funds
Endowment
funds
2024
2023
Receipts
Donations and legacies
Income from charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other income
Total income
Payments
Raising funds
Expenditure on charitable activities
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
Net income / (expenditure) resources before transfer
Transfers
Gross transfers between funds - in
Gross transfers between funds - out
Other recognised gains / losses
Gains/losses on investment assets
Gains on revaluation, fixed assets, charity's own use
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
175,877
-
47,175
-
223,052 108,913
16,393
-
-
-
16,393
21,600
5,661
-
-
-
5,661
6,785
12,625
53
-
-
12,678
14,341
-
-
-
-
-
1,596
210,556
53
47,175
-
257,785 153,237
8,266
-
10,861
-
19,128
159
150,497
12,897
2,145
-
165,541 111,282
-
-
-
-
-
1,156
158,764
12,897
13,007
-
184,669 112,599
51,792
(12,844)
34,167
-
73,115
40,637
191
3,697
82,105
3
85,996
55,573
(3,698)
(175)
(20)
(82,106)
(85,997) (55,574)
-
-
1,879
9,259
11,138
41,848
-
-
-
-
-
479
48,285
(9,321)
118,132
(72,844)
84,254
82,965
(15,098)
13,402
(1,691)
486,643
483,259 400,294
33,188
4,082
116,441
413,800
567,513 483,259

Page 34