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2025-12-31-accounts

Charity Registration No: 1200922

ST. HELEN’S CHURCH ASHBY-DE-LA-ZOUCH

Annual Report and Financial Statements

For the year ended

31 December 2025

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch INDEX TO THE ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Page
PCC Reference and Administrative Details 3
PCC Annual Report 4 - 23
Independent Examiners Report 24
Receipts and Payments Account 25
Statement of Assets and Liabilities 26
Notes to the Accounts 27 – 28
Detailed Income & Expenditure Accounts 29 - 30
Restricted Funds Analysis 31 - 32

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of PCC Name: Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch

Charity Registration No: 1200922 Address: St Helen’s Church 3 Lower Church Street Ashby-de-la-Zouch Leicester LE65 1AA Parochial Church Council Members: Ex-officio member – Team Rector Rev’d Susan Field Ex-officio member – Churchwarden Judith Lewis Resigned 1 April 2025 Ex-officio member - Churchwarden Vacant Ex- officio member / Reader – also Elizabeth Smith Safeguarding Coordinator Deanery Synod Rep Maureen Clark Appointed 1 April 2025 Elected members: Vice Chair Lynda Price Standing Committee member Shân Dyer Treasurer Catalina Yuen Ling Chan Sam Blatherwick Resigned 1 April 2025 Caroline Millward Resigned 1 April 2025 Emily Darlington Peter Rose Also Electoral Roll Officer Eileen Coombs Malcolm Salter Resigned 18 April 2025 Laura Tucker John Steward Appointed 1 April 2025 Mar@n Vaughan Co opted by PCC October 2025

All the PCC are also Trustees of the charity.

The Parish Administrator has been operating as PCC Secretary but is not a member of PCC.

Independent Examiner: Simon Latham Gelsmoor Rempstone Road Coleorton, Leicestershire LE67 8HQ Bankers: CAF Bank 25 Kings Hill Avenue Kings Hill West Malling Kent MR19 4TA

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The PCC is pleased to present their report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charity Commission’s Receipts and Payments basis.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC registered with the Charity Commission on 7 November 2022. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 (as amended) and the Church Representation Rules (contained in Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 as amended). The members of the PCC are the charity’s trustees under charity law.

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

PCC Membership

Appointment of PCC members are governed by the Church Representation Rules. The Team Rector, other clergy licensed to serve in the Parish, the churchwardens and the Deanery Synod members are automatically members. Other members are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting by church members who are on the Electoral Roll of the Parish. We encourage everyone (aged 16 and over) who attends church regularly to register on the Electoral Roll.

Churchwardens are elected each year at the Annual Meeting of Parishioners, which is open to all residents of the Parish. They serve from the date they are subsequently admitted to office by the Bishop and continue in office until their successor is admitted by the Bishop following election.

Elected members of the PCC serve for a term of 3 years from the date of election. They may stand to be re-elected for a further 3-year term.

Under the Church Representation Rules, the PCC has the power to co-opt additional members to fill casual vacancies. Co-opted members serve until the next Annual Parochial Church Meeting when they may stand for election.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The PCC has the responsibility of promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelical, social and ecumenical. The PCC undertakes their mission through prayer, worship, learning and action. It also has responsibility for the maintenance of the church building and the Community Heritage Centre and its associated grounds.

When planning our activities, the PCC has considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, including the guidance 'public benefit: running a Charity (PB2)'. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. We try to enable people to live out their faith as part of our community.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES (continued)

Our objectives are to:

To facilitate this work, it is vital that we maintain the fabric of the Church, the Churchyard, and the Heritage Centre and its associated grounds.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

PCC Secretary Report

The PCC met 9 @mes during 2025 beginning with an Away Day held on a Saturday at the Congrega@onal Church with members of the Ministry Team. During that day, we did some work on our vision statement for St Helen’s and revised our strapline to ‘Faith, Love and Community’. We also did some brainstorming about what we wanted from our church building and looked at the new Safeguarding Standards.

At the APCM, Sam Blatherwick and Caroline Millward stepped down with our thanks for their @me on the PCC. Mo Clark was elected to Deanery Synod (so also became a PCC member) and John Steward was elected on to the PCC. Shortly aNer the APCM, Malcolm Salter stepped down but shortly aNerwards Mar@n Vaughan was co opted on to the PCC.

During the year, we con@nued to keep a sharp eye on our finances, and have had regular reports on some of the ac@vi@es and new ini@a@ves in the church. We also gave dona@ons to Ashby Youth for Christ, Hoveraid, Open Doors and Loughborough Town of Sanctuary and some smaller dona@ons to Ashby Foodbank and the Phoenix founda@on.

Tim James

Team Rector’s Report

I want to begin by thanking all who have contributed to this report booklet which shows how many people are involved and how much is going on in our church, both in the building itself but also more widely in the community. I am hugely grateful to all of you and to many others who help with all sorts of ac@vi@es in and around the church. It is great to be working with you and to have the privilege of leading and being part of such a fantas@c team of people.

The observant amongst you will no@ce that, this year, there is no churchwardens’ report and that is because for the past year we have had no churchwarden! Judith Lewis stepped down at the APCM having fulfilled the role and seen through the vacancy very conscien@ously and for a couple of years was the sole Warden. Since then, I have been blessed with the support and assistance of the three Assistant Wardens – Lyn Price (also Vice Chair of the PCC), Eileen Coombs and Martin Vaughan. I am

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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Team Rector’s Report (continued)

grateful to many others who fulfil parts of what could be a Warden’s role but it would be great to have one and ideally two Churchwardens as their absence has made my role considerably harder.

The Ministry Team of our Licensed Readers and Choral Director has continued to meet every two months to support and encourage one another and to plan services and other events. I am grateful for their ministry not just at St Helen’s but across the Flagstaff Team. During the year, Rev. Preb. John Allan was given his Permission to Officiate and he has helped us both at St Helen’s and across other churches in the Flagstaff Team. I am very grateful to him and Rev. Canon Richard Andrews for their support and for covering me whilst I am on holiday or required elsewhere.

Our worship has continued in 2025 as in 2024 but, having discussed it with the Ministry Team and with PCC, we decided to ‘rest’ the All Age Service on a Sunday afternoon as it was not reaching young families and instead to focus on inviting young families to specific services and events. At the same time, Messy Church, in a new format and at a new time, has really flourished as has Little Fishes. With limited resources, it felt best to focus our energies on those activities which are bearing fruit. The numbers at other services remained constant but our numbers at Christmas increased substantially.

During Lent, we had Sunday evening services following John Mark Comer’s book, ‘Practicing the Way’ and moved round the Flagstaff churches. We have also continued with having Team services on a fifth Sunday but both these and the Lent services have not been particularly well attended and it does seem that there is a general reluctance to attend a church other than the one people mainly worship at. This is with the exception of a small group of people who are prepared to travel and support other churches in the team.

We continue though, to function as a Flagstaff Team and during 2025 we had regular meetings of representatives of each of the churches over a meal. This used to be the Wardens’ meeting but with the absence of Wardens in 4 of the parishes, this has become a reps meeting. We also had meetings of Treasurers and Parish Safeguarding Coordinators across the Team to look at various aspects of the role and to share wisdom.

During the year, Eileen Barradell stepped down as Sacristan and Head Server after many years of service but I am delighted that she is still willing to step in when we need her and that she still serves for us. Alison Andrews has stepped into those roles seamlessly and I am very grateful to her for being willing to step up. We continue to value our paid staff – the musicians, Pete Hyland as Verger, Tim James as Administrator and Communications Officer and Elaine Shaw, our bookings officer. All of these go above and beyond what we pay them to do.

The Pastoral Care team has continued to flourish during the year, offering care and support to those who are in need or to newcomers on a Sunday. One of them is always located by the font to welcome those who are new to church and we arrange visits to those who are housebound or who need support. We meet every couple of months. At the end of October, we started offering prayer ministry after communion and we now do that on the fourth Sunday of the month. A member of the Pastoral Team works with a member of the clergy to offer prayer and anointing for those who would like it.

St Helen’s has an important civic presence in the town. Remembrance Sunday continues to be a significant occasion and I also officiated at a Commonwealth Day service and an Armistice Day service in the town centre.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Team Rector’s Report (continued)

Personally, I completed a Professional Diploma in Pastoral Supervision during the year and now offer Pastoral Supervision to three clergy in the Diocese. I also became Vice Chair of the Diocesan Advisory Committee which does give me some inside knowledge useful for our building! Although both of these roles involve me in things outside of our parishes, I hope there will be some benefit to my ministry here.

We face a considerable period of change in the not too distant future. The Minster Community process stalled for various reasons in 2025 but we will be encouraged to move towards becoming part of a Minster Community in 2026. Please pray for wisdom and discernment for those of us involved in this as we will have to make important decisions.

Rev. Canon Sue Field, Team Rector

Safeguarding

‘Safeguarding’ means the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture in all our churches. St Helen’s has a commitment to ensuring high standards in the safeguarding and care of children, young people and adults. For St Helen’s church in 2025 there were no concerns reported.

As the DBS administrator I continue to complete new checks and renew checks for the Flagstaff family of churches. DBS certificates must be renewed every 3 years.

Training and keeping knowledge and understanding alive is key to a safer environment for all. Online Safeguarding training continues to be available, but this is not always accessible for all, and there is still a need to provide some opportunities for other methods of accessing training. Training is required to be updated every 3 years.

As from July 2025 the Church of England’s Parish Safeguarding Handbook was officially phased out and replaced by the online Safeguarding e-manual which provides all policies and practice guidance. It will be regularly updated and is not yet complete. This e-manual is designed to support the day-today work of safeguarding and those that have a role with children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable.

St Helen’s follows the Safer recruitment process set out by the Church of England for all new volunteers and employees.

Information about Safeguarding and reporting concerns /seeking help and advice is displayed in the church and the St Helen’s Community Heritage Centre.

St Helen’s is working within the Church of England National Safeguarding Standards. The standards reflect and identify all aspects of safeguarding within the church and its community. The PCC has adopted these standards and is working within them.

St Helen’s church is registered with the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard which enables up to date information to be received and provides a plan of any actions required. This dashboard is to be updated in line with national changes in safeguarding in January 2026

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Safeguarding (continued)

“The Diocese of Leicester views safeguarding as a core, proactive responsibility rather than just a policy, focusing on fostering a safe, welcoming environment where all people are valued as made in God's image. They are committed to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults, with a "whole church" approach that prioritizes immediate, transparent responses to concerns.”

For us as a church family we must strive to follow the guidance of the Leicester Diocese. Safeguarding us all, children, young people and adults at St Helen’s must be a thread alive in everything we do. We must create a healthy church culture in which people feel confident to share concerns and where all people feel safe in every respect

The safety of children, young people and all adults is “Everyone’s business “

Elizabeth Smith, Parish Safeguarding Coordinator

Fabric Report

Here’s the report on the state of the fabric of the church and the work that has been carried out during 2025. We strive to be good custodians of our Grade 1 listed church and so a huge thank you to the Buildings Team and all those who help to maintain, clean, repair, and generally care for the church and also the Heritage Centre, the churchyard borders, and the Heritage Centre garden.

All routine testing of the security alarm, roof alarm, fire extinguishers, lightening conductors, our portable electrical equipment, and the emergency lighting and fire alarm in the Heritage Centre, have been carried out so that we are fully compliant. In August our conservation architect did the quinquennial inspection a few months early to provide the most up to date condition to inform our project work.

Many of you are aware that the church is in need of some major repairs, especially to the tower, and that the church is now on the Historic England Heritage at Risk Register. A plan for this work and how it can be funded, forms part of the brief for the St Helen’s for the Future committee, and so the buildings team are currently focusing on smaller projects. However, we are monitoring the building carefully especially the water ingress during some of the winter storms.

Work to rewire the lighting in the Chancel was completed in February and March so we have now removed all the old cabling from the church, and repairs have been carried out to the concrete base at the High Altar.

In the summer we had a problem with pigeon infestations in the tower which had to be dealt with by pest control over a number of visits. Wire mesh panels have now been installed inside the tower louvres by heritage builders, and repairs carried out to worn doorways, to prevent access by birds in the future.

Damp remains an issue in the church and this year, as part of a major clean, we removed all the salting from pillars and external walls to prevent it being reabsorbed back into the stonework. We have also cleared weeds and leaves from the surface gullies on the south side of the church to enable rainwater to flow away from the building – this job will need doing regularly.

As mentioned, a team of people helped to spring clean the church and Heritage Centre, to declutter the vestry, and to deep clean the kitchen. We have also sorted and identified all the various church keys and created an up-to-date key register.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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Fabric Report (continued)

Our Community Heritage Centre is no longer a new building and this year the lobby lights, office window shutter, and dishwasher have all needed to be repaired. We do as much preventative maintenance as we can but over time more repairs will be needed.

As ever if you do notice any problems with our buildings, please let us know.

Helen Smith, Chair of the Buildings Group

St Helen’s for the future

This group of 10 members of St Helen’s has continued to meet during 2025 to formulate and discuss major repairs and developments to our church building. Early in the year we visited the parish church at Barrow on Trent – a church which has undergone a major reordering in order to be of use to the community. This was a useful visit to hear what they had done and to get some advice.

Having got some rough ideas and consulted the PCC, we held two congregational and community events to try to engage others in these discussions. Despite many emails or letters being sent, only a few from the community came but the feeling was positive. We had a further discussion after the Annual Meeting which was also positive.

We have been grateful for support from two Diocesan Officers – Gill Elliott whose focus is on Building Development and Atarah Adams whose focus is on churches that are on the Heritage at Risk Register. We also had a site visit from members of the Diocesan Advisory Committee to get some early advice in how to proceed.

At the end of 2025, we were preparing to send a Project Enquiry Form to the National Heritage Lottery Fund.

Sue Field, Chair of the St Helen’s for the Future group.

Report from the Parish Office

As a (part-time) employee but not a member of the church I perhaps am bringing a different perspective on the church year. Whether alone or with people present in the office and building, the work is non-stop, which emphasises what an active church community this is. All the church people I have regular contact with are fabulously friendly and supportive, and the office facilities would be envied by many church administrators, making working here a positive experience.

This year we have had the replacement of the printer/photocopier with a similar but updated version as the previous contract had completed. A mobile phone has been purchased to facilitate everything from two-factor authentication to checking on Facebook posts while out-and-about. The office has registered for free access to a “professional” Canva account, which is used extensively for producing posters etc, and two church members have also taken up the opportunity to benefit from this for their church related design work.

Besides the obvious times of Easter and Christmas, the other busy times have been during the preparation of volunteer rotas in January, May and September, and surprisingly in the summer with the fantastic range of activities which take place over the holiday period.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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Report from the Parish Office (continued)

The time in the office is just about sufficient for the support of existing church activities. The challenge going forward is to develop new approaches or introduce new systems, which would make office activities more efficient and compliant with the increasing complexity and legal responsibilities of the modern world.

Tim James

Servers

The Serving Team have continued to be present at our regular 10.30am Sunday Eucharist services, as well as supporting services at Festival Times.

One of the Team has been in attendance at the midweek communion.

Eileen Barradell stood down during 2025 as Head Server and Sacristan after many years of very loyal service. Thankfully, she remained in the serving team, sharing her wisdom and knowledge.

Thank you so much Eileen for all that you have done and given to St. Helen's over the years. May you continue to wrestle with the acolyte candle for many years to come!

Alison Andrews, Head Server/Sacristan

Willesley School visits

It continues to be an enormous privilege and source of joy to be able to welcome children from Willesley Primary School to our church and to our church family.

It enables the opportunity to work with the children and their adults, within the school R E curriculum providing experiences and activities that can explore the beliefs and teaching, practices and way of life of our Christian community. One of the key aspects of the time that the children spend in church, is opening up the building for them to explore, showing that it is a place of worship to be respected, but ensuring that we show the warmth of welcome for all.

Celebrating Harvest: The roof of the church was once again raised with the singing of Key Stage 2 children and their families at their harvest celebration held in St Helen’s in October. Reverend Sue Field and I attended Key stage 2 Christmas nativity productions for Willesley and also Woodcote primary.

From September 2025 significant changes have been introduced to the primary RE curriculum which has had an impact on planning and arranging dates for the year groups to come to our church. We will, however, be welcoming and sharing time with Years 3,4 and 5 in the spring and summer terms of 2026.

It is a privilege provided by God to welcome and include children to our church. They are our tomorrow, so, let us welcome them today.

Elizabeth Smith

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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Messy Church and children’s workshops

St Helens and VB Coleorton Messy church

It has been a very exciting year for Messy Church. During the year it was decided that it was time to review messy church. In the summer a consultation was launched to find out the views and ideas of children and families. A picnic took place in the Heritage Centre giving time and space for people to think and share their thoughts and ideas. These were collected on a large piece of paper with people adding their ideas on post-its.

One definite thing that emerged from this process was to change the time of Messy Church from a Sunday afternoon. A new time was introduced for the autumn: 4.15pm-5.30pm on the first Friday of every month. It was also agreed by St Helen’s PCC that Messy Church would be under St Helen’s PCC but retain the partnership with St Mary’s Coleorton.

The review coincided with BRF Ministries Messy Momentum project funded by the Church of England, launched in 2025. The project is to boost engagement with young people in Messy Churches across the UK.

The project has six pilot approaches aiming to help deepen the faith of children as they grow older and continue their faith journey.

Our Messy church is signed up for the Messy Momentum pilot “Intentionally Intergern (aye-aye)”

The journey is for 2 years.

As part of this –

I am attending a Youth Escape essentials course.

We will submit regular data which will be collected from all pilots over the 2 years.

Complete an annual survey (December 2025 has been submitted)

The PCC of St Helens also receives £250 to be used in resources for messy church.

This is an exciting time for Messy Church and it is hoped that more growth will occurring next year and links made with other outreach groups that are part of the St Helen’s community e.g. PRG, Little Fishes, We’re in Stitches.

Elizabeth Smith

Choir and Music

Choral Director’s Report

Full Choir

During 2025, the regular core choir consisted of four sopranos, five altos, three tenors and, with Will’s voice settling, two basses. Two of our former trebles, Emily and Aimie, headed off to university in the autumn but it was wonderful to have them back at Christmas together with our other regular ‘extras’. It has been great to have Jenny return to the fold as well to sing whenever she is able.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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Choir and Music (Continued)

Special Services

We were delighted to be joined by Christopher Ouvry-Johns and members of the Leicester Cathedral Choir for our Candlemass Evensong. It was wonderful to join our voices together in rich and vibrant praise with pieces that required the boosted number of singers.

Sunday Soirées continued to be very successful during 2025. We were treated to performances by Hannah Matthews (trumpet), The Capriccio Ensemble, Andrew Chapman (organ), Caroline Essex & Caroline Summers (vocal duet), Sue Field & Jeremy Kimber (Two pianos) and Loca Wind Quintet. The highlight was very definitely Music for Two Pianos not only in a musical sense but with a packed church who were generous in their donations.

In June we took part in a special service to commemorate the anniversary of VE Day and in December we were pleased to sing for the Carol Service at Staunton Harold and the Ashby Strings Christmas Concert as well as our usual Advent and Christmas Carol Services.

Music

We purchased two new pieces of music for the choir during the year and introduced nine other new pieces either from currently held stock or borrowed from other choirs.

The new hymn books came into use in 2025 having been purchased through generous donations from the congregation, topped up from the Music Fund. These, together with our printed booklet of songs, have enabled us to keep enriching our worship with the introduction of new hymns.

I would like to express my thanks to Anna and Andrew for their continued support during the year and to the choir, including our lovely ‘extras’, for their hard work and dedication which is what keeps the choral tradition at St Helen’s going strong.

Caroline Essex, Choral Director

Choral Assistant’s Report

Junior Choir

Whilst I enjoyed my last few weeks of maternity leave, Junior Choir began the year in the expert hands of Caroline Essex. They sang 2 songs on Mothering Sunday including Rutter’s anthem “For the Beauty of the Earth” with the main St Helen’s Choir. We also welcomed new member, Alice.

Over the summer several Junior Choir members said their goodbyes: Delilah, Jessica and Ruth (who is now a probationer chorister at Derby Cathedral). Everyone at St Helen’s wishes them all the best as they continue their musical journeys.

One of first jobs back after maternity leave was to aim to increase the number of Junior Choir members. As part of the Little Fishes Summer Holiday sessions with the help of Caroline (and Sam in his pushchair!) I ran a Junior Choir ‘taster’ session. This was attended by 3 children, including Riley, who sang with us at Harvest and Christingle along with Grace, who often comes to services at St Helens. During my October Half Term I visited Viscount Beaumont C of E to run another taster session for the whole school. This was very well received by both the pupils and staff. These sessions combined with advertising Christingle rehearsals increased Junior Choir numbers to 11 for the 2 November rehearsals.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Choir and Music (Continued)

4 members of Junior Choir performed 3 songs at the Harvest All-Age service and 9 members sang at the Christingle service. These numbers were slightly less than expected due to illness.

Anna Haines

Organist’s Report

Music Group / Duet

Organ & Pianos

I wish to acknowledge the support of Howard Marriott, Laurence Rodgers and Jeremy Kimber who have played the organ on occasions when I have been on leave.

Andrew Chapman, Organist

Connections

In 2025, we held two special day-long “Connections” sessions. These days were designed to help us spend time in God’s presence and to grow deeper in our discipleship. We focused on connecting with God, with ourselves, with others, and with creation.

The first session took place during the inspiring weekend, Crying in the Silicon Wilderness, led by Rev Dr Romola Parish. Romola’s ministry centres on using creative arts to help people explore faith and experience God more deeply. She shared her beautiful, embroidered artworks, each paired with a meditation on themes of brokenness and restoration. She also led us in a day of quiet reflection and creative expression, which many found deeply rewarding.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

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Connections (continued)

Later in the year, in October, we welcomed Revd Dr Rhona Knight. As the clocks went back and the evenings grew darker, she reminded us that this season can be a good time to slow down and reflect. She introduced us to a simple prayer practice called the Examen, shaped by the teaching of Ignatius of Loyola. Rhona encouraged us to “Pause to Breathe” and showed us how even five minutes of prayerful reflection can bring surprising depth and insight.

We plan to continue our Connections sessions in 2026. We will begin with a Lent Course, followed by two or three further gatherings during the year.

These will be simple opportunities to come together, be still, and remember the words of Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.”

Grace and Peace

Andy Smith

Events and Activities Team (EAT)

The Events and Activities team met twice during 2025 with the purpose of overseeing the various events that happen at St Helen’s so that we can work together and also to avoid any clashes or near misses with dates!

Those who attend the meeting represent Heritage, We’re in Stitches, Young people’s workshops, Social Committee and concerts. During the year we have hosted a few external concerts including those by LUMOS, a national company which Is a commercial organisation, and two concerts by Ashby Strings. Because of the Soirées and these concerts, the church now has a Performing Rights Society licence.

On the weekend of the early May Bank Holiday, we were able to host an exhibition by the embroidery artist and priest, Romola Parish. The church was open from Saturday to Monday with a preview event on the Friday evening. Members of the public visited throughout the weekend and refreshments were served on two of the days. Romola led a workshop on the Saturday and the event concluded on the Monday with a piano duet lunchtime concert.

The other areas covered by EAT have their own reports in this booklet.

Sue Field

Social Committee

SOCIAL COMMITTEE (Alison Andrews, Shan Dyer, Eileen Coombs, Adrienne Sedgeman)

We are a small but perfectly formed committee! Our first full year in operation has been busy and sometimes challenging as we find our way. The church held a Bring and Share Lunch when we were visited by Hoveraid, the lunch co-ordinated by us. We were able to support the Embroidery Exhibition in May which was organised by Helen Smith, by providing refreshments from the Ringing Chamber. In July we hosted a barbecue at the Heritage Centre, making the most of the lovely summer weather. We held our second Christmas Cracker evening in December and it was lovely to see increasing

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Social Committee (continued)

attendees at that occasion. The Social Committee Also provided the refreshments served at the Soirées. We would like to say a big Thank You to everyone who has supported our social events and for volunteering when we need help. We have already discussed what events we will be planning for 2026 so keep a look out!

Alison Andrews

St Helen’s Bellringers

In 2025, the bells were rung for 4 weddings thanks to the continued support of ringers from neighbouring churches and the local ringers.

We welcomed 3 groups of visiting ringers in May, June and December.

We sadly said goodbye to two ringers during the year, Michael Davidson passed away on 21st September 2025, he was the Tower Captain at St. Helen’s for 25 years. A quarter peal of Grandsire Triples was rung on 10th October immediately after the service to celebrate his life. On 11th October a peal of Bristol Royal was also rung for him. He was very well respected by all the ringers at St Helen’s and all the local towers he rang at and a long-term friend to many. Peggy Adams passed away on 10th October 2025, Peggy had been a keen ringer for many years at St. Helen’s.

During the year, we have managed to ring for the majority of Sunday Services with the support of ringers from other towers, and again with outside help, we rang on Christmas morning. I would like to express my thanks to all the ringers for keeping St. Helen’s bells ringing.

In November, Taylor’s Bell Foundry carried out an inspection on the bells. This is a free service they offer on an annual basis. I am pleased report there was very little work required, a couple of headstock bolts needed tightening, and the tenor rope needed replacing. Thanks to Dave Gammon and Sarah Hale from Packington for helping me to replace the rope, however, when we changed the rope, it was raining heavily and the rain was pouring through the roof, and as a result of this we now need to ring down the treble, 2nd and 3rd bells to stop the rain getting into them. Once the roof has been fixed, we will arrange for Taylor’s to do a full inspection which will incur a cost and which could highlight any issues due to prolonged water damage.

Unfortunately, the ringers are no longer able to put up and take down the flags due to other family commitments and health issues, with the help of local ringers any minor repairs to the bells can be undertaken by ourselves.

Catherine Baker, Acting Tower Captain

Heritage Centre

The Community Heritage Centre continues to give us an opportunity to engage with our wider community and is a valuable resource for the church. Outreach activities hosted by St Helen’s in the Heritage Centre include Little Fishes, Messy Church, Street Pastors, Heritage Talk series, Warm Hearted Space and We’re In Stitches. Activities are well attended and through them we are able to extend our hospitality to people who don’t normally attend church and to get to know them.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Heritage Centre (continued)

Room hire helps to cover the running cost of the Heritage Centre, as do contributions from many of the activities mentioned above. The centre is popular with local fitness, wellbeing, and language tutors as well as being the venue for Ashby Strings and The Civic Society. One off bookings are for parties, workshops, and bookings associated with events in church such as baptisms, funerals, and concerts.

The Community Heritage Centre is also well used for church activities throughout the year and provides the base for our staff. Apart from the weekly refreshments after Sunday services the centre is booked for meetings of the PCC, Ministry Team, St Helen’s for the Future, We’re In Stitches planning meetings, Buildings Group, study groups and marriage preparation. PRG love having the opportunity to cook and eat together and the Social Committee makes full use of the catering facilities for social gatherings.

So, although the Centre is well used there are still a lot of people in Ashby who don’t know what a great facility we have behind that wooden gate. In 2025 we received a grant from The Ferrers and Ivanhoe Lodge to help us promote the facility and to increase the use by hirers and community groups.

Helen Smith

Community Heritage Garden

Volunteers:

Regulars - Peter Maunder, Martin Vaughan, Simon Starkey, Rob & Caroline Millward,

Activities:

Mainly trimming, pruning, cutting back, grass mowing & strimming, watering, repairing/removing worn posts alongside the central path, WEEDING, & planting in the gaps!

The roofing felt from one of the sheds still needs replacing. The central pathway and area at the top of the garden is very hard to keep weed free, and could really do with improving/replacing.

I have not been very much involved during 2025, and most of the regular maintenance has been carried out by Rob & Caroline.

Andrew Chapman

Heritage Events

We are privileged to use the Heritage Centre to showcase the fascinating heritage of our site, with a regular winter programme of talks plus an additional heritage talk during the July Festival of Archaeology. Our talks have an average audience of around 40 people and up to 60 on occasion. From January to March 2025, we hosted three speakers: Claire Strachan talked about ‘Small things forgotten: Churches & the little stories of parish life in post-medieval England; Peter Liddle spoke on ‘Roman Villas & peasant farms’ and Lesley Rowe talked about a seventeenth century vicar, ‘Samuel Shaw (1635-1698): Little man with a big impact’. In July we welcomed John Thomas from the University of Leicester Archaeological Services to talk about Burrough Hill Iron Age Hill Fort.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Heritage Events (continued)

Anne Heaton and I delivered two successful tours in July as part of the Festival of Archaeology, one of the church and one on the churchyard. The churchyard tour continues to be very popular.

For ‘Hello Heritage’ in September, we designed an A2 board for the churchyard gates, this year on the archaeology beneath our feet. On Saturday 13th September we held an Open Day for both church and heritage centre, alongside the annual ‘ride & stride’ event. We offered mini-tours of the church, information about our archaeology and archaeology explore boxes for children.

At the end of September, our winter series of 6 heritage talks began. Gay Evans returned to talk about Albert Isaiah Coffin, a 19th century doctor or – possibly – a quack; in late October Susan Kilby gave a fascinating talk on place names in Charnwood Forest and in Moira Ackers spoke on Henry Grey’s monument at Bradgate.

Research into the history of St Helen’s Church and its people is ongoing. Our current active research strand is into the history of the churchyard and the people who rest there.

Julie Starkey

Prior Park Ministry

Attendance at Tea Time over the last year has continued to fall as some had passed away, others moved to care/nursing homes and some too frail to come down to the hall. The few who came enjoyed the delicious homemade cakes and the companionship of others.

On the second Wednesday of each month, we have a communion service in the small community hall and the attendance has been very encouraging over the last year, averaging 14-18 each time. After each service, tea/ coffee and biscuits are always served for further fellowship.

A Christmas Carol service was held in the big Community Centre led by Revd. Sue Field, followed by refreshments.

Eileen Coombs

Welcome and Hospitality

The church is open every day during daylight hours, welcoming everyone who wishes to come in, sit quietly, pray or merely to enjoy the tranquillity of our beautiful historic building. For centuries, people from all walks of life have come and worship, give thanks, pray and be blessed. This tradition is very important to us and we want to keep it going.

Flower arrangements adorn various areas of the church, lovely to be admired and an aid to worship. Colourful notice boards displaying posters and notices keep the congregation and visitors updated of services and upcoming events in church and in the wider community.

Tea lights are always available by St Michael’s Chapel to remember loved ones. There are also vases by the Book of Remembrance area to put flowers in to remember loved ones on birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions.

Eileen Coombs, Assistant Warden

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Parish Magazine

The Parish Magazine continues to be well received, with 80 copies printed and sold each month and a digital pdf being made available on the website. Readers are from the church congregation as well as the wider community. The magazine advertises upcoming church events, as well as featuring articles on topics of interest. Over the last year, we have included more overtly faith-based articles than previously and regular slots, such as the ‘Gardening Tips’ column, have continued to be very well received too. Wendy Freer should be thanked and commended for her many years contributing articles relating to local history. Articles about each of the charities we support prayerfully and financially have also been included in the magazine. New suggestions for articles are always welcome.

Emily Darlington (Editor)

Flower Arranging

Throughout the year, flower arrangements adorned the High Altar and the Choir Vase. At Christmas, Easter and Remembrance, there were flower pedestals or arrangements at the entrance, St Michael’s Chapel, Lady Chapel, the High Altar, by the Choir Stalls and on the windowsills.

Margaret has continued to do the Advent wreath and Pastoral Candle for us and we are truly grateful.

A big Thank you to all the faithful and willing flower arrangers who, week by week, creatively and lovingly, put their skill and talent into creating works of art to adorn the church, making it warm, beautiful and welcoming to visitors.

Eileen Coombs (Flower Co-ordinator)

St Helen’s Sound Team

Over the past 12 months the sound team have attempted to provide an operator for all the major services in the church. We believe this is an essential part of the church life ensuring the services can be clearly heard by all listeners. We have lost one member of the team.

We are still keen to get others involved in this part of the churches work. It’s not difficult; training and support will be given. For more information, please contact Simon (simon.starkey@gmail.com) or any member of the sound team. Any feedback about the quality of the service is gratefully received.

We have done some system maintenance but are pausing any upgrade plans till the reordering project.

Simon Starkey

Priest Room Gang (PRG)

Hospitality and supporting and serving others.

There are 10 young people who are members of the PRG. The young people meet on Thursday evenings 5.00-6.30pm every fortnight in term time and more often by arrangement, in the Community Heritage Centre. It is a time for the young people to come together sharing food and friendship and importantly for them to have time to step back from their busy lives and school.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Priest Room Gang (PRG) (continued)

Some time is always spent at each meeting reflecting and recognising the pattern of the church’s year from Advent through to harvest.

During the year one member and two former members of PRG had their 18th birthdays. There was no time to celebrate due to exams (GCSE and A level) so in July we had a celebration event with drinks and canapes. A time of celebration and recognition of the all the hard work had been done and look forward to new steps in the next academic year.

In the autumn the group welcomed several members of the St Helen’s family who came and shared their work and life experiences and also, their faith journey and their part in the community of St Helen’s church.

In September the group visited Ashby Castle (free!) The visit included exploring the castle and the grounds and finding out more about the Hastings family and the connection to St Helen’s.

The sun shone!

The plan for November was to host another meal “a time of thanks and gratitude” inviting family and those who support the group to a shared meal. After a great deal of planning and re-planning it proved impossible to find a date and time that would suit everyone, so it was agreed to postpone it until early 2026.

In 2026 it is hoped that there will be opportunists to build fellowship and partnership with other young people from the town and church communities and link in with the Messy Church pilot project “Intentionally Intergen.”

My thanks go to everyone who support young people and especially to Emily Darlington.

Elizabeth Smith

Eco Group

The free supply of 2 extra ‘green’ bins has been withdrawn by NWLDC: Ashby Town Council offered to provide a 1100 litre wheeled skip - an impractical replacement. Therefore, a church member offered to fund the 2 extra ‘green’ bins (cost £57/yr). We will now have to apply for these 2 permits each year. Work has been ongoing throughout the year, cutting back and tidying the churchyard circular beds and borders, and the Heritage Centre garden, and weeding around the Heritage and church buildings and churchyard walls and paths. Supported by church members, garden working parties were held on 12/4/25, 5/7/25 & 2/8/25. A member of the congregation donated 200 Spring flowering bulbs which were planted in the Heritage Centre garden in October. A request was sent to Ashby Town Council asking for action/support in improving the planted area at east end of the churchyard; in June, a church member and I met Ashby Chief Groundsman for suggestions of how to tidy this border along Upper Church Street wall. His plan is to gradually cut down the weeds, level the ground and return the whole area to grass, then to be strimmed and mowed.

On 19/9/25, a meeting was held to discuss the group’s next steps and actions: we decided to share weekly ‘eco tips’ in the pew sheets in the lead-up to Christmas. An article was published in December’s Parish Magazine with a summary of our suggestions of ways to promote a ‘greener’ Christmas. Checks have been made to ensure that cleaning materials used on-site are eco-friendly, and a receptacle has been placed in the Heritage Centre kitchen for soft plastic/film recycling.

Caroline Millward

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Friends Fellowship and Faith Group

The group met twice a month throughout 2025 at my home. Numbers attending were between 6–8 each session. We continued to get to know one another in a relaxed and informal way always with the added bonus of tea and cake!

Jenny Hedges

Pause for Paws

Pause for Paws has now been running for over a year since its launch in October 2024. It runs on the first Saturday of each month, offering an open door to the church building and a warm welcome for dogs and people.

There is a small team of volunteers and usually a team of 3 for each session.

It is going well with a positive response to those that pass by both with and without dogs.

During the year the time of opening was changed from 10.15-12.15pm to 9.30-11.30am as it seemed that people generally walk their dogs earlier.

The use of the west door is a great advantage and people with and without dogs are more inclined to stop and wonder/ have a chat and then come in and look. People are now taking time in church. For one person it has been a place for her to come for quiet reflection and friendship following the passing away of her dog.

Each session begins with a time of prayer at 9.25am and there is a notebook for reflections by volunteers from each session.

We are planning a pet service in June 2026. We are looking forward to spreading the welcome message further in 2026.

Elizabeth Smith

We’re in Stitches

We’re in Stitches is an outreach group to our local community. It is a friendly, supportive place where ladies meet and stitch (in its many forms,) with expert help on hand, by a team who kindly share their talents. We now meet twice a month on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday afternoons. We regularly get between 12 and 20 attending. We have also had 2 separate full day workshops when all the sewing machines have been available, and again, expert advice/ help shared.

Last summer we were pleased to offer 4 evening talks on textile related subjects, in the Heritage centre, which were appreciated by the folks who attended.

Mo Clark

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Little Fishes

Little Fishes continued to thrive during 2025. Although numbers attending do fluctuate throughout the year, we continued to average around 20 children each week.

As in 2024, attendance dipped during the autumn term and, noticeably, so did donations; we generally receive around £1 per adult but on several occasions, this was closer to 50p per adult. This meant that on a number of weeks we did not cover our costs (providing a healthy snack and giving a donation to PCC for use of the hall). However, we do not want to compromise on what we offer and, as we have a healthy buffer in the Little Fishes fund, we have no plans to alter anything at present, though we will keep an eye on our income vs expenditure during 2026.

In June we organised a social evening for parents/grandparents; Helen Smith very kindly organised a flower arranging activity and we then provided a meal. The evening was much appreciated and we hope to hold a similar event early in 2026.

It was sad to say goodbye to some long-standing members of Little Fishes in July. As is our custom, we marked the occasion with gifts for the children and were delighted to receive cards and gifts of appreciation in return.

During the summer holiday we held two sessions which, again, were very well received. We also took the opportunity to promote Junior Choir with Anna Haines leading a singing session in church for older siblings who attended.

As part of our mission to try and encourage our Little Fishes families to become more involved in our church services, we linked craft activities to some of our special services (Harvest, Christingle etc) and invited families to come to the services where the results were displayed.

As ever, we are grateful to all the volunteers who generously give their time each week to make Little Fishes happen.

Caroline Essex

“Pilgrim Group”

“Pilgrim” – Learning together to be disciples.

The Pilgrim group has continued to meet most Monday evenings and, as in previous years, have studied a range of topics. We began the year with a look at Women of the Old Testament and then moved on to the videos which accompany the book which the church studied during Lent – Practicing the Way, which I think challenged us all about how seriously we take our discipleship. We went on to look at The Nicene Creed, given that 2025 is its 1700th anniversary. We concluded the year with an Advent course which reflected on the Journey of the Magi. It’s fair to say that one doesn’t always know how well any material will work until we try it! But overall, we have been encouraged and challenged in our discipleship, both by the various materials and by one another. Between each set of studies, we usually set aside an evening to relax over a shared meal. Although we now have 11 members [one has moved away], not everyone is able to come every week and we would warmly welcome additions to the group – please talk to Judith Lewis if you would like to know more.

Judith Lewis

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Warm Hearted Space

This initiative has been going for 2 years now and every Friday afternoon sees some regulars and some new visitors. The Heritage Centre provides a warm, safe and welcoming space for anyone to drop in, enjoy cups of tea/coffee, catch up with friends, and make new friends. It is adult and child friendly. There is no charge and it is an excellent way to meet people and socialise in a safe and warm environment.

The last session of the year was an Intergenerational one as Messy Church was held after this event and many stayed behind to observe or help.

Do come to the Heritage Centre, bring a friend or two, EVERY Friday from 2-4pm and enjoy the warm and hospitality.

Eileen Coombs & Elizabeth Smith

St Helen’s Website & Facebook

There have been very few changes to the website over the past year. Tim James and Julie Starkey continue as website administrators. Between us, we keep the ‘What’s On’ pages up to date, add a list of services each month, upload the Parish Magazine and add short reports of previous activities.

The Heritage pages continue to develop, with new research articles added from time to time, creating an online resource for visitors and researchers.

Julie Starkey & Tim James

Deanery Synod

The deanery synod has met 4 times over the last year. Mostly what has been discussed has been about the Minster communities, and also about keeping updated on safeguarding. There have been a few laity group meetings arranged, for folks to ask questions about the proposed minister communities. In May there was a Deanery day event where there were workshops, and shared meals, and a time of outdoor worship and time for prayer.

Over the year we said goodbye to our Area Dean and chair, the Revd Canon Gill Pinnington and wished her well in her retirement. In December we welcomed our new Area Dean and chair, Revd Darren Walker.

Mo Clark

Treasurer’s Report – Financial Year 2025

2025 has been a challenging year financially. As of 31 December 2025, St. Helen's funds totalled £119,343, with a deficit of £17,884 for the financial year.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

Treasurer’s Report – Financial Year 2025 ( continued)

St. Helen’s current finances remain fine. The church has more than £34,313 in its general funds, and the PCC policy is to keep £14,000 of it “in reserve” in case of an unexpected event or set of circumstances. There is also £70,421 in the Legacy Fund, which will be used for major building works. When planning for 2026, the PCC continues to allocate resources carefully to meet our needs and achieve our mission. This includes:

Assuming we do not increase our planned giving and donations, this budget estimates a £21,000 deficit. To establish a healthy financial situation, we must increase our income through personal giving and activities that generate funds. Let us pray and reflect on whether we can increase our contributions.

Catalina Chan

Heritage Centre

Under the provisions of the PCC (Powers) Measure 1956, the PCC does not own property in their own right. The Heritage Centre is vested in the Leicester Diocesan Board of Finance (LDBF). LDBF acts as the custodian trustee for the Heritage Centre while the PCC retains operational control.

The Heritage Centre is therefore not included as an asset in the accounts.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch PCC ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

(continued)

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The members of the PCC, who are also trustees of the charity, are responsible for preparing the trustees’ report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The trustees are required to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the PCC and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the PCC during the year.

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

The PCC is responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time, the financial position of the PCC and to enable the PCC to ensure that the financial statements comply with the requirements referred to above. The PCC is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the Church Representation Rules and applicable UK Accounting Standards

Approved by the PCC on 17[th] March 2026 and signed on its behalf by:

Sue Field (Mar 30, 2026 12:23:13 GMT+1)

Rev’d Canon Sue Field PCC Chair

Page 23

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Helen, Ashby-de-la-Zouch INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS’ REPORT TO THE PCC/TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

I report to the PCC on my examination of the Receipts & Payments Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025 which are set out on pages 25 to 32.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts as required under section 145 of the 2011 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 Trust as required by section 130 of the Act; or

(2) that accounts do not accord with those records; or

(3) that 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 the requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

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

Simon Latham (Mar 30, 2026 13:01:29 GMT+1)

Simon Latham Gelsmoor Rempstone Road Coleorton Leicestershire LE67 8 HQ

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ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Receipts & Payments Account for the year ended 31 December 2025

Receipts & Payments Account
for the year ended
31 December 2025		 Receipts & Payments Account
for the year ended
31 December 2025
RECEIPTS
Note Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
Donations & Legacies
Planned Giving
60,747
-
60,747
Loose Plate Collections
& Donations
5,602
-
5,602
Legacies
-
-
-
Other giving
5
3,219
2,029
5,248
Gift aid
15,973
1,046
17,019
Total Donations & legacies
85,541
3,075
88,616
Grants
6
-
598
598
Other income
Activities for generating funds
7
19,703
1,253
20,956
Fees - Weddings & Funerals
12,549
-
12,549
Bank interest
2,349
-
2,349
Collections funds
-
968
968
Sundry income
60
-
60
Total receipts
120,202
5,894
126,096
PAYMENTS
Charitable Activities
Parish Contribution
49,130
-
49,130
Charitable Donations
4,050
-
4,050
Employment Costs
24,022
-
24,022
Running Costs
37,032
1,695
38,727
Fees - Weddings & Funerals
6,723
-
6,723
Building Maintenance &
Development
4,734
15,738
20,472
Collections funds
-
856
856
Total payments
125,691
18,289
143,980
Net receipts/ (payments)
(5,489)
(12,395)
(17,884)
Transfers
between funds
(5,900)
5,900
-
Cash funds
@ 31.12.2024
51,405
85,822
137,227
Cash funds
@ 31.12.2025
40,016
79,327
119,343
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2024
60,747
-
60,747
5,602
-
5,602
-
-
-
3,219
2,029
5,248
15,973
1,046
17,019		 58,569
-
58,569
4,040
-
4,040
-
-
-
2,008
20,750
22,758
14,522
-
14,522
85,541
3,075
88,616		 79,139
20,750
99,889
-
598
598
19,703
1,253
20,956
12,549
-
12,549
2,349
-
2,349
-
968
968
60
-
60		 -
6,693
6,693
33,982
1,640
35,622
10,724
30
10,754
3,152
-
3,152
-
1,843
1,843
231
-
231
120,202
5,894
126,096		 127,228
30,956
158,184
49,130
-
49,130
4,050
-
4,050
24,022
-
24,022
37,032
1,695
38,727
6,723
-
6,723
4,734
15,738
20,472
-
856
856		 44,660
-
44,660
6,050
433
6,483
19,412
-
19,412
31,679
4,120
35,799
5,846
140
5,986
816
27,444
28,260
-
2,080
2,080
125,691
18,289
143,980		 108,463
34,217
142,680
(5,489)
(12,395)
(17,884)
(5,900)
5,900
-
51,405
85,822
137,227		 18,765
(3,261)
15,504
(5,195)
5,195
-
37,835
83,888
121,723
40,016
79,327
119,343		 51,405
85,822
137,227

Page 25

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Statement of Assets and Liabilities as at 31 December 2025

CASH FUNDS
Note Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total funds
Bank Current Account
12,191
112
12,303
Bank Deposit Account
27,825
79,215
107,040
Total cash funds
40,016
79,327
119,343
INCOME NOT YET BANKED
Cash
3
3,860
-
3,860
3,860
-
3,860
LIABILITIES
Suppliers
4
2,216
112
2,328
2,216
112
2,328
REPRESENTED BY
Funds
13/14
40,016
79,327
119,343
40,016
79,327
119,343
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total funds
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total funds
2024
12,191
112
12,303
27,825
79,215
107,040		 9,510
-
9,510
41,895
85,822
127,717
40,016
79,327
119,343		 51,405
85,822
137,227
4,711
1,000
5,711
3,860
-
3,860		 4,711
1,000
5,711
2,216
112
2,328		 4,202
5,501
9,703
2,216
112
2,328		 4,202
5,501
9,703
40,016
79,327
119,343		 51,405
85,822
137,227
40,016
79,327
119,343		 51,405
85,822
137,227

The receipts & payments accounts were approved by the PCC on 17 March 2026 and were signed on their behalf by:

Sue Field (Mar 30, 2026 12:23:13 GMT+1)

Rev'd Canon Sue Field PCC Chair

Page 26

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025

1 Basis of preparation

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

2 Third Party Fundraising

All funds passing through the PCC accounts are shown as income and expenditure, including specific "Collections Funds" that are collected on behalf of, and then forwarded on to, third parties.

3 Income invoiced/received not yet banked

At the end of the financial year the following income had been invoiced or received but not yet banked:

Wall safe & Loose plate collections
Contribution towards Rectors expenses
Sum Up - CollectTin church donations
Gift aid
Events income
Refreshment income
Parish Magazine advertisments
Room Hire - Heritage Centre		 2025
2024
-
915
580
645
185
132
1,203
1,906
30
30
10
-
480
-
1,372
2,083
3,860
5,711

4 Expenditure not yet paid

At the end of the financial year the following expenditure related to 2025 but was paid in 2026:

Payroll Services
Telephone
Gas
Electric
Expenses
Building repairs
Conservation work - Selina Memorial
Occasional Office Disbursements
Collections to be paid (restricted)		 2025
2024
75
150
55
56
196
345
511
509
1,228
2,317
-
851
-
4,650
151
825
112
-
2,328
9,703
5
Other Giving
General Fund
Building Fund
Bell Fund
Mothers Union
Organ Fund
Choir fund
Hymn Books
Little Fishes
PRG Trip
Flower Fund		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2024
2,092
-
2,092
-
700
700
-
694
694
-
-
-
-
635
635
142
-
142
780
-
780
85
-
85
-
-
-
120
-
120		 1,978
-
1,978
-
14,000
14,000
-
4,861
4,861
-
611
611
-
60
60
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,218
1,218
30
-
30
3,219
2,029
5,248		 2,008
20,750
22,758

Page 27

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025

Grants
Listed Place of Worship
scheme
Ash Education Fund
Archbishops Council -
Churchcare Grant
LPW Grant		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2024
-
598
598
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 -
2,943
2,943
-
1,376
1,376
-
1,800
1,800
-
574
574
-
598
598		 -
6,693
6,693

6 Grants

7 Activities for Generating Funds


Funds
Events and Activities
Room Hire
Magazine
Clergy Expenses Income
Refreshments		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2024
3,922
1,253
5,175
14,478
-
14,478
227
-
227
645
-
645
431
-
431		 3,429
1,640
5,069
29,901
-
29,901
370
-
370
-
-
-
282
-
282
19,703
1,253
20,956		 33,982
1,640
35,622

8 Building Maintenance and Development

Building Maintenance refers to maintenance or repair works carried out on a planned or emergency basis to maintain or repair the buildings to allow the ongoing use of the buildings.

Building Development refers to (mainly) larger projects which improve and enhance the buildings or enable such improvements.

9 Building Fund

Given the historic nature of the church buildings, and a general lack of investment in recent times, it is important that funds are regularly transferred to the Buildings Fund to enable repairs and improvements to continue and keep the buildings in use.

10 Legacy Fund

The legacy fund is where significant sums given to the church are held. The PCC policy is for such funds to be used solely for the development of the buildings and grounds of St Helen's i.e. not for building maintenance or for day to day operating costs (unless specified by the donor).

Page 28

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Receipts & Payments Account - Church for the year ended 31 December 2025

11
RECEIPTS
Planned giving
Loose Plate collection / CollectTin
Donations
Gift Aid
Other income
Occasional Offices
Charity Collections
Grants
Events
PRG Trip
Clergy Expenses Income
Refreshment
Parish Magazine
Room Hire
Bank interest
Other income
Total receipts
PAYMENTS
Parish Contribution
Services
Choir/Music
Bell Expenditure
Salaries
Occasional Offices
Events & Trips
Refreshments
Expenses
Donations Given
Charity Collections
Utilities
Office
Insurance
Building - Cleaning
Building - planned
Building - repairs
Total payments
Gross receipts/(payments)
Transfers
Net receipts/(payments)		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2024
60,747
-
60,747
5,602
-
5,602
3,169
2,029
5,198
15,973
1,046
17,019		 58,569
-
58,569
4,090
-
4,090
1,958
20,750
22,708
14,522
-
14,522
85,491
3,075
88,566
12,549
-
12,549
-
968
968
-
598
598
1,570
1,253
2,823
-
-
-
645
-
645
431
-
431
227
-
227
50
-
50
2,349
-
2,349
60
-
60		 79,139
20,750
99,889
10,724
30
10,754
-
1,843
1,843
-
6,693
6,693
2,080
411
2,491
-
1,229
1,229
-
-
-
282
-
282
370
-
370
-
-
-
3,152
-
3,152
231
-
231
103,372
5,894
109,266		 95,978
30,956
126,934
49,130
-
49,130
1,945
-
1,945
3,860
48
3,908
-
1,058
1,058
17,470
-
17,470
6,723
-
6,723
875
389
1,264
273
-
273
3,334
196
3,530
4,050
-
4,050
-
856
856
3,754
-
3,754
9,915
4
9,919
6,855
-
6,855
116
2,394
2,510
1,641
984
2,625
-
10,115
10,115		 44,660
-
44,660
1,493
342
1,835
1,574
-
1,574
-
-
-
13,172
-
13,172
5,846
140
5,986
292
3,778
4,070
444
-
444
2,235
-
2,235
6,050
433
6,483
-
2,080
2,080
4,882
-
4,882
8,376
-
8,376
6,227
-
6,227
3
96
99
786
845
1,631
-
23,432
23,432
109,941
16,044
125,985		 96,040
31,146
127,186
(6,569)
(10,150)
(16,719)		 (62)
(190)
(252)
(5,900)
5,900
-		 (5,195)
5,195
-
(12,469)
(4,250)
(16,719)		 (5,257)
5,005
(252)

Page 29

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Receipts & Payments Account - Heritage Centre for the year ended 31 December 2025

12
RECEIPTS
Donations
Events
Room Hire
Other income
Grants
Total receipts
PAYMENTS
Salaries
Events
General Expenses
Utilities
Office
Insurance
Building - cleaning
Building - maintenance
Building - Repairs
Total payments
Gross receipts/(payments)
Transfers
Net receipts/(payments)		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2025		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Total
2024
50
-
50
2,352
-
2,352
14,428
-
14,428
-
-
-
-
-
-		 -
-
-
1,349
-
1,349
29,901
-
29,901
-
-
-
-
-
-
16,830
-
16,830		 31,250
-
31,250
6,552
-
6,552
573
-
573
392
-
392
3,516
-
3,516
336
-
336
1,404
-
1,404
2,951
25
2,976
-
1,400
1,400
26
820
846		 6,240
-
6,240
247
-
247
170
-
170
4,181
-
4,181
283
-
283
1,275
-
1,275
27
-
27
-
955
955
-
2,116
2,116
15,750
2,245
17,995		 12,423
3,071
15,494
1,080
(2,245)
(1,165)		 18,827
(3,071)
15,756
-
-
-		 -
-
-
1,080
(2,245)
(1,165)		 18,827
(3,071)
15,756

Page 30

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Restricted Funds Analysis for the year ended 31 December 2025

13
Restricted Funds
Building Fund
Mothers Union
Bell Fund
Legacy Fund
Garden Fund
Organ Fund
COLLECTIONS
Collections
Motor Neurone Disease Charity
Children's Society
Christian Aid
Mayors Collection
Designated Funds (unrestricted)
Choir
PCC Charity Donations
Little Fishes
Hymn Books
Children & Young persons Ministry
Flower fund
General Funds
Free reserves
Total Funds 31.12.2025		 Balance @
1.1.2025
Receipts
Payments
Transfers
Balance @
31.12.2025
9,656
2,298
15,737
5,000
1,217
269
-
-
-
269
4,692
694
1,254
900
5,032
70,421
-
-
-
70,421
314
-
-
-
314
470
1,934
442
-
1,962
-
-
-
318
318
-
-
187
187
-
112
-
-
112
-
186
186
-
-
-
165
165
-
-
85,822
5,894
18,289
5,900
79,327
4,486
773
2,119
2,020
5,160
800
-
4,000
3,200
-
678
85
87
(220)
456
-
780
1,182
402
-
45
-
19
-
26
23
220
182
-
61
6,032
1,858
7,589
5,402
5,703
45,373
118,344
118,102
(11,302)
34,313
137,227
126,096
143,980
-
119,343

Page 31

ST HELEN'S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Restricted Funds Analysis for the year ended 31 December 2024

14
Restricted Funds
Building Fund
Mothers Union
Bell Fund
Legacy Fund
Garden Fund
Team
PRG Trip 2024
Organ Fund
COLLECTIONS
Phoenix Children's Charity
Children's Society
Christian Aid
Gifts
Fair Trade
Mayors Collection
Ripple Effect Charity
Designated Funds (unrestricted)
Choir
PCC Charity Donations
Little Fishes
Children & Young persons Ministry
Flower fund
General Funds
Free reserves
Total Funds 31.12.2024		 Balance @
1.1.2024
Receipts
Payments
Transfers
Balance @
31.12.2024
12,483
19,317
27,144
5,000
9,656
-
611
342
-
269
-
4,892
440
240
4,692
70,421
-
-
-
70,421
314
-
-
-
314
433
-
433
-
-
-
3,823
3,778
(45)
-
-
470
-
-
470
124
55
179
-
-
113
108
221
-
-
-
407
407
-
-
-
879
879
-
-
-
94
94
-
-
-
205
205
-
-
-
95
95
-
-
83,888
30,956
34,217
5,195
85,822
2,221
1,444
817
1,638
4,486
800
-
6,000
6,000
800
868
-
-
(190)
678
-
-
-
45
45
-
30
7
-
23
3,889
1,474
6,824
7,493
6,032
33,946
125,754
101,639
(12,688)
45,373
121,723
158,184
142,680
-
137,227

Page 32