Charity registration number: 1200996
MANFRED HORSTMANN VULTURE CONSERVATION TRUST TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2025
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Contents
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 |
| Trustees' Report | 2—9 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 10 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 11 |
| Comparative Statement of Financial Activities | 12 |
| Statement of Financial Position | 13 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 14—23 |
| The following pages do not form part of the statutory accounts: | |
| Detailed Statement of Financial Activities | 24—25 |
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Reference and Administrative Details For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
| Trustees | Adam Bloch |
|---|---|
| Neil Homer-Forbes | |
| Emma Waldron (appointed 21/03/2025) | |
| Rhian Gwilliam | |
| Brett Sloman | |
| Elizabeth Cale | |
| Charity Number | 1200996 |
| Principal Address | Bwlch Rhagodfa |
| Cwmdu | |
| Llandeilo | |
| SA19 7NW | |
| Independent Examiner | Dionne A Sherwood FCCA |
| DS Small Business Help Ltd | |
| Chartered Certified Accountants | |
| Cnwc Y Cneuen | |
| Llangeitho | |
| Tregaron | |
| SY25 6SU |
Page 1
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust
Trustees' Report For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
The trustees present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 30 November 2025.
Objectives and Activities
Aims and Objectives
Vision Statement
Our vision is to be a key driver in the global conservation of vultures and other endangered birds of prey, ensuring their survival through robust breeding programmes, habitat restoration, and research-led strategies. By augmenting wild populations through captive breeding and reintroduction, we aim to restore ecological balance and spotlight the essential role vultures play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
As the UK’s only dedicated vulture breeding-for-release organisation, we envision a future where vulture species are thriving in stable populations within their native ranges. Beyond breeding, we remain dedicated to supporting field projects, shaping international conservation policies through evidence-based research, collaboration, and education, and inspiring broader public commitment to biodiversity conservation.
Significant Activities
During this period, the Trust continued to build significant momentum across conservation breeding, scientific research, infrastructure development, and international collaboration. Building on the foundations established in previous years, this period has marked an important transition in the organisation’s development, strengthening our role not only as the UK’s only dedicated vulture breeding-for-release organisation, but increasingly as a recognised centre for conservation science and species recovery.
One of the major developments of the year has been the formal establishment and opening of the Trust’s laboratory facilities. The laboratory was officially opened in September by Vinayagan Dharmarajah, Regional Director for BirdLife International Asia, alongside Jemima Parry-Jones, Chair of SAVE. The launch generated significant interest and positive engagement within the conservation and scientific communities. The facility represents a major step forward in our ability to undertake advanced conservation-focused research onsite.
Further strengthening this research direction, we entered discussions with the University of Bristol regarding a future academic collaboration involving undergraduate placements and a PhD candidate from the 2026 academic year onwards. Proposed research areas include behaviour, genetics, conservation medicine, and microbiome analysis, with the planned PhD focusing specifically on microbiome work associated with avian health and conservation. Encouragingly, the University has already submitted grant applications linked to this emerging partnership.
The Trust also received donations of scientific laboratory equipment through relationships developed with surplus redistribution companies. These donations reflect growing confidence in the Trust’s scientific direction and conservation work.
Among the highlights of the year was our continued collaboration with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and London Zoo, following another successful breeding season and continued support for their vulture conservation programme. Building on the previous year’s success, the Trust again provided specialist support that contributed to the successful rearing of a further vulture chick, reinforcing the value of long-term collaboration between zoological institutions and specialist conservation breeding organisations.
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Page 2
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Significant Activities - continued
As the holder of the largest known captive population of hooded vultures and the second-largest captive population of Egyptian vultures, the Trust continues to play an increasingly important role in safeguarding genetically valuable populations for the future. These populations represent a critical resource for long-term conservation breeding, population management, and future release initiatives internationally.
On the conservation front, preparations are now nearing completion for the transfer of this year’s cohort of juvenile Egyptian vultures to Bulgaria for future release into the wild. The transfer, scheduled for February 2026, will involve transportation via Germany before quarantine at Sofia Zoo and eventual movement to a hack pen prior to release. This programme represents a major milestone in our long-term contribution to international species recovery initiatives.
Partnerships with organisations including the Vulture Conservation Foundation, Conservation Without Borders, and other international conservation bodies continued throughout the year. The Trust also remained involved in providing husbandry, incubation, and management advice to projects internationally, including ongoing discussions connected to conservation work in Saudi Arabia.
Biosecurity also remained a key operational focus during the reporting period following an outbreak of Avian Influenza at a nearby rescue facility in Cross Hands. In response, the Trust strengthened already robust biosecurity protocols through the renewal of BALAI certification, installation of new decontamination infrastructure, improved site security measures, and development of contactless delivery systems to minimise external risk exposure.
Operationally, substantial work has continued across the Trust’s properties and grounds. Following storm damage earlier in the year, considerable effort has gone into repairs, tree clearance, aviary maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades. Additional improvements included upgrades to equipment, repairs to roofing and enclosures, and the beginning of sustainability initiatives including the purchase of solar panels intended to reduce long-term energy costs and environmental impact.
The Trust also continued to strengthen its standing within the wider zoological and conservation community. Holly Cale’s ongoing work connected to the Hooded Vulture EEP (European Endangered Species Programme), including professional development with EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria), reflects the increasing recognition of the Trust’s expertise and leadership within coordinated international breeding programmes.
The Trust also hosted a successful two-day event during May involving conservation partners, philanthropic supporters, corporate guests, and members of the wider conservation community. The event generated valuable engagement and support for the Trust’s long-term vision and provided an important opportunity to showcase the scale and ambition of the work being undertaken onsite. We were especially grateful for the support and attendance of guests including Jennifer Saunders and representatives from a range of partner organisations and businesses.
The reality of running a specialist conservation breeding facility is that progress is often built through constant practical work: repairing storm-damaged enclosures, maintaining ageing infrastructure, managing biosecurity risks, monitoring breeding pairs through difficult weather conditions, and adapting facilities to meet the changing needs of the collection. These operational demands continue alongside the more visible conservation milestones and remain central to the Trust’s day-to-day work.
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Page 3
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Significant Activities - continued
At its heart, the Trust remains driven by a deep belief that vultures matter, not only as extraordinary species in their own right, but as essential components of healthy ecosystems worldwide. Every chick reared, every partnership developed, and every improvement made onsite contributes toward the wider goal of ensuring these species continue to exist in the wild for future generations.
Collectively, these developments represent one of the most significant periods of organisational growth since the Trust’s establishment. We are increasingly positioned not only as a conservation breeding organisation, but as an emerging international centre for research, collaboration, and practical species recovery efforts for vultures and other endangered birds of prey worldwide.
Public Benefit
Mission Statement
We are dedicated to promoting, for the public benefit, the conservation, protection, and management of all species of vultures and other endangered birds of prey, as well as preserving their habitats worldwide.
Our primary focus is on captive breeding programmes and comprehensive research into breeding, habitat, health, and other factors critical to the survival of these species. By advancing this work, we strive to ensure the long-term preservation of vulnerable bird-of-prey populations around the globe.
The trustees confirm that they have complied with the requirements of Section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
Achievements and Performance
Main Achievements
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Operational Growth and Capacity
The rapid expansion of the Trust’s activities across breeding, research, and international collaboration has continued to place increasing demands on infrastructure, staffing capacity, and operational coordination. Managing this growth while maintaining high standards of welfare and conservation practice remains a key priority.
We continue to refine systems, improve long-term planning, and invest strategically in scalable infrastructure and specialist expertise to support sustainable growth.
Biosecurity and Avian Influenza
The outbreak of Avian Influenza at a nearby rescue facility reinforced the importance of maintaining strict preventative biosecurity measures. While the Trust already operated to high standards, further improvements were implemented to minimise future risk exposure.
These measures included:
- Renewal of BALAI certification. Installation of enhanced decontamination facilities. Improved perimeter security and controlled site access. Planned implementation of contactless delivery systems.
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Page 4
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Main Achievements - continued
Infrastructure and Environmental Pressures
The Trust continued to face challenges associated with maintaining and upgrading a growing operational site in the face of severe weather conditions, ageing infrastructure, and increasing operational demand. Storm damage, aviary repairs, drainage issues, and ongoing property maintenance required considerable staff time and financial resources throughout the year.
Water management, enclosure maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades remain ongoing priorities. While often less visible than breeding or research successes, this work forms a critical foundation for the welfare of the collection and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
At the same time, these challenges reinforced the importance of long-term infrastructure planning, preventative maintenance, and investment in sustainable systems capable of supporting future organisational growth.
Veterinary and Welfare Challenges
During the year, the Trust also faced several challenging veterinary situations, including emergency treatment. These incidents required rapid out-of-hours intervention and highlighted the importance of strong teamwork and collaborative veterinary support. We remain extremely grateful to everyone involved for their professionalism, commitment, and willingness to respond.
International Collaboration and Strategic Transition
The ongoing discussions have highlighted both the opportunities and complexities involved in organisational legacy planning, charitable transitions, and long-term conservation stewardship.
The Trust continues to approach these discussions carefully and responsibly, recognising the significance of preserving institutional knowledge, historical continuity, and charitable intent.
Adaptations and Future Plans
To address ongoing challenges and support future growth, we are:
-
Expanding Research Capacity: Developing laboratory capability, microbiome research, and scientific collaborations with academic institutions.
-
Enhancing Biosecurity: Continuing investment in site protection, environmental monitoring, and disease prevention systems.
-
Increasing Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with conservation organisations, release programmes, and scientific institutions across Europe and beyond. Improving Sustainability: Developing renewable energy infrastructure and improving longterm environmental resilience across the site.
-
Refining Internal Systems: Continuing development of internal management software, operational systems, and data management tools to support increasingly complex conservation activities.
-
Supporting Sector Knowledge Transfer: Expanding opportunities for placements, training, and collaboration with zoo professionals, students, and conservation practitioners internationally.
-
Strategic Development: Preparing for potential future organisational partnerships and opportunities that align with the Trust’s long-term mission and conservation goals.
Page 5
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Goals for the Future
Expansion and Growth
Over the coming years, the Trust aims to continue expanding both its breeding and scientific research programmes. The integration of laboratory-based conservation science alongside practical breeding work represents an important next phase in the organisation’s development.
The Trust also aims to further develop its role as a centre for specialist training, placements, and professional collaboration within the international zoo and conservation sector. Building stronger institutional links and knowledge-sharing opportunities will remain an important part of our longterm strategy.
Research and Development
Building on new academic partnerships and infrastructure improvements, we intend to advance research into genetics, microbiomes, incubation science, disease management, and conservation medicine to improve long-term breeding and release success.
- Sustainability and Long Term Impact
The Trust remains committed to building a financially and operationally sustainable organisation capable of delivering meaningful conservation impact over the long term. Through collaboration, innovation, and responsible growth, we aim to strengthen our contribution to global vulture conservation efforts and future species recovery initiatives.
Call to Action
As the UK’s sole dedicated vulture breeding-for-release charity, we continue to occupy a unique and increasingly important role within international conservation efforts.
With continued support, we can: Expand our research and laboratory facilities. Strengthen breeding and reintroduction programmes. Advance conservation science and genomic research. Support international species recovery initiatives. Preserve critical expertise and conservation legacy within the sector.
Support the development of specialist training, scientific research, and conservation knowledgesharing within the sector.
Ways to Get Involved
Direct Donations: Help support the daily care of our birds, infrastructure development, and future release programmes.
Partnerships: Collaborate with us on scientific research, conservation breeding, and long-term species recovery initiatives.
Grants and Research Support: Enable the continued development of innovative conservation science, international partnerships, and practical recovery programmes.
By supporting the Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust, you are directly contributing to the long-term survival of some of the world’s most threatened bird species and the ecosystems that depend upon them.
Together, we can help secure the future of vultures and ensure these vital species continue to play their essential ecological role for generations to come.
We would also like to acknowledge and thank our staff, volunteers, collaborators, trustees, donors, and supporters whose continued dedication and belief in the organisation make this work possible. The progress achieved during this reporting period reflects a collective effort across conservation, science, husbandry, infrastructure, and strategic development.
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Page 6
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Goals for the Future - continued
For any further information or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact us at info@horstmanntrust.org.
Financial Review
Financial Position
The Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust's total income was £75,336 (2024 - £30,029). All income is attributable to Unrestricted funds We are reporting a Surplus for the financial year of £19,040 (2024 – deficit £20,903).
Our expenditure for the year was £56,296 (2024 - £50,932). Of the charity's total expenditure, £51,239 (2024 - £45,653) was devoted to charitable purposes, and £5,057 (2024 - £5,280) administrative support. The Trustees consider that these figures reflect both the efficiency of The Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust's operations, and the significant management and administrative contribution made by trustees and volunteers.
Of the £1,684,375 balance carried forward at 30 November 2025, £1,200,000 was restricted (Endowment) funding and £484,375 was unrestricted. This represents over 9 years unrestricted expenditure and is well in excess of the requirements set out by the Trustees in the reserves policy detailed below. The charity is building its streams of revenue slowly, but this will take time. It is likely that regular expenditure will increase, thus resulting in an anticipated reduction in the time period the reserves will represent.
Reserves Policy
In accordance with guidelines issued by the Charity Commissioners and in the light of the main risks to the organisation, the trustees have adopted a policy regarding reserves, which should ensure that:
-
Excluding those funds represented by fixed assets, general reserves are held at a level equating to three to six months' anticipated planned expenditure.
-
There are adequate funds to ensure that the charity is able to meet all current and known future liabilities.
The level of free reserves exceeded the target range set by the Board of Trustees. The Trustees have reviewed the reserves policy for 2025-2026.
Financial Overview
Funding and Expenditure
• Sources of Funding: Donations and private support continue to form the foundation of the Trust’s financial stability, supplemented by grant applications, collaborative projects, and strategic partnerships.
• Laboratory and Infrastructure Investment: Significant progress has been made in developing the Trust’s scientific infrastructure through donations and continued investment in research capability, biosecurity, and operational resilience.
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Page 7
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Financial Overview - continued
• Infrastructure and Sustainability Investment: Continued investment was made into property maintenance, aviary repairs, laboratory development, equipment upgrades, and renewable energy infrastructure, including the purchase of solar panels for both properties.
- Donations and In-Kind Support: Alongside direct financial donations, the Trust benefited significantly from donations of consumables, volunteer support, and professional expertise, all of which substantially increased operational capability while reducing overall expenditure.
• Events and Fundraising: The Trust hosted a successful two-day event during the year involving conservation partners, philanthropic supporters, and corporate attendees. Additional private donations and in-kind support have also contributed to ongoing operations.
• Long-Term Sustainability: Work continues on diversifying future revenue streams through grants, partnerships, legacy giving, consultancy opportunities, and expanded research collaborations.
Structure, Governance and Management
Governing Document
Constitution, organisational structure and decision making
The Charity is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and is governed by its charitable objectives as outlined in its Constitution dated 14th November 2022.
The Trustees meet formally as a Board five times a year to review financial and operational performance and will call Special General Meetings as and when these are required. If an urgent matter arises, the Trustees will receive information and make decisions via email using a timed voting period.
Trustee Selection Methods
Induction and training of Trustees
New Trustees undergo extensive briefing on the organisation, its aims and objectives and their legal obligations under Charity law. During this time new Trustees will meet other existing Trustees and key members of staff and be appraised of the financial performance of the Charity and its business plan.
Financial Overview
Risk mitigation
The Trustees regularly examine the major strategic, business and operational risks that the charity faces and confirm that systems have been established to mitigate those risks.
Page 8
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Trustees' Report (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities
The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing the financial statements the trustees are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP;
-
make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at anytime the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charity's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
The trustees' report was approved by the board of trustees and signed on its behalf by:
19 Jul 2026
Date
Page 9
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust (the Trust) for the year ended 30 November 2025.
Responsibilities and Basis of Report
As the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed 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:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and contents of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view' which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Dionne A Sherwood FCCA Date 21 July 2026
DS Small Business Help Ltd Cnwc Y Cneuen Llangeitho Tregaron SY25 6SU
Page 10
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Statement of Financial Activities For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
| Notes INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM: Donations and legacies 3 Other trading activities 4 Investments 5 EXPENDITURE ON: Raising funds 7 Charitable activities 7 Other NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS: Total funds brought forward TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 17 |
Unrestricted funds £ 49,770 4,145 21,421 |
Endowment funds £ - - - |
2025 Total funds £ 49,770 4,145 21,421 |
2024 Total funds £ 19,396 2,800 7,833 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75,336 | - | 75,336 | 30,029 | |
| (426 ) (52,482 ) (3,388 ) |
- - - |
(426 ) (52,482 ) (3,388 ) |
- (47,041 ) (3,891 ) |
|
| (56,296 ) | - | (56,296 ) | (50,932 ) | |
| 19,040 | - | 19,040 | (20,903 ) | |
| 19,040 465,335 |
- 1,200,000 |
19,040 1,665,335 |
(20,903 ) 1,686,238 |
|
| 484,375 | 1,200,000 | 1,684,375 | 1,665,335 |
The notes on pages 14 to 23 form part of these financial statements.
Page 11
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Comparative Statement of Financial Activities For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
| Notes INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM: Donations and legacies 3 Other trading activities 4 Investments 5 EXPENDITURE ON: Charitable activities 7 Other NET EXPENDITURE NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS: Total funds brought forward TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 17 |
Unrestricted funds £ 19,396 2,800 7,833 |
Endowment funds £ - - - |
2024 Total funds £ 19,396 2,800 7,833 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30,029 | - | 30,029 | |
| (47,041 ) (3,891 ) |
- - |
(47,041 ) (3,891 ) |
|
| (50,932 ) | - | (50,932 ) | |
| (20,903 ) | - | (20,903 ) | |
| (20,903 ) 486,238 |
- 1,200,000 |
(20,903 ) 1,686,238 |
|
| 465,335 | 1,200,000 | 1,665,335 |
The notes on pages 14 to 23 form part of these financial statements.
Page 12
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Statement of Financial Position As At 30 November 2025
| Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible Assets 12 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 14 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year 15 NET CURRENT ASSETS (LIABILITIES) TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES NET ASSETS FUNDS OF THE CHARITY Endowment Funds Unrestricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS 17 |
Unrestricted funds £ 2,937 |
Endowment funds £ 1,200,000 |
2025 Total funds £ 1,202,937 |
2024 Total funds £ 1,200,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2,937 677 485,071 |
1,200,000 - - |
1,202,937 677 485,071 |
1,200,000 1,158 468,465 |
|
| 485,748 (4,310 ) |
- - |
485,748 (4,310 ) |
469,623 (4,288 ) |
|
| 481,438 | - | 481,438 | 465,335 | |
| 484,375 | 1,200,000 | 1,684,375 | 1,665,335 | |
| 484,375 | 1,200,000 | 1,684,375 | 1,665,335 | |
| 1,200,000 484,375 |
1,200,000 465,335 |
|||
| 1,684,375 | 1,665,335 |
On behalf of the board
19 Jul 2026
Date
The notes on pages 14 to 23 form part of these financial statements.
Page 13
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
1. General Information
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust is a charitable incorporated organisation registered with the Charity Commission, registered charity number 1200996 . The principal address is Bwlch Rhagodfa, Cwmdu, Llandeilo, SA19 7NW.
2. Accounting Policies
2.1. Basis of Preparation of Financial Statements
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)", Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Charities Act 2011.
The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
2.2. Incoming Resources
All incoming resources are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any performance conditions have been met, the amount can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.
For donations to be recognised, the charity will have been notified of the amounts and the settlement date in writing. If there are conditions attached to the donation and this requires a level of performance before entitlement can be obtained, then income is deferred until those conditions are fully met or the fulfilment of those conditions is within the control of the charity and it is probable that they will be fulfilled.
Donated facilities and donated professional services are recognised in income at their fair value when their economic benefit is probable, it can be measured reliably and the charity has control over the item. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity. For example, the amount the charity would be willing to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure.
No amount is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102). Further detail is given in the Trustees’ Annual Report.
For legacies, entitlement is the earlier of the charity being notified of an impending distribution or the legacy being received. At this point income is recognised. On occasion legacies will be notified to the charity however it is not possible to measure the amount expected to be distributed. On these occasions, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed.
Income from trading activities includes income earned from fundraising events and trading activities to raise funds for the charity. Income is received in exchange for supplying goods and services in order to raise funds and is recognised when entitlement has occurred.
Income from government and other grants are recognised at fair value when the charity has entitlement after any performance conditions have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred.
...CONTINUED
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Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
2.2. Incoming Resources - continued
Investment income is earned through holding assets for investment purposes such as shares and property. It may include dividends, interest and rent. Where it is not practicable to identify investment management costs incurred within a scheme with reasonable accuracy the investment income is reported net of these costs. It is included when the amount can be measured reliably. Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method and dividend and rent income is recognised as the charity’s right to receive payment is established.
2.3. Resources Expended
All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. It is categorised under the following headings:
-
Costs of raising funds includes the purchase of merchandise and marketing materials; Expenditure on charitable activities includes staff costs and are directly attributable to certain activities; and
-
Other expenditure represents those items not falling into the categories above. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose.
Support costs are those that assist the work of the charity but do not directly represent charitable activities and include office costs, governance costs, administrative payroll costs. They are incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Where support costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources. Premises and other overheads have been allocated on a similar basis.
Fund-raising costs are those incurred in seeking voluntary contributions and do not include the costs of disseminating information in support of the charitable activities.
2.4. Tangible Fixed Assets and Depreciation
Tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of the fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases:
Freehold No depreciation Plant & Machinery 25% reducing balance
Page 15
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
2.5. Stocks and Work in Progress
Stocks and work in progress are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks.
Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method. Cost includes all direct costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable overheads.
Work in progress is reflected in the accounts on a contract by contract basis by recording turnover and related costs as contract activity progresses.
At the end of each reporting period stocks are assessed for impairment. If an item of stock is impaired, the identified stock is reduced to its selling price less costs to complete and sell and an impairment charge is recognised in the statement of financial activities. Where a reversal of the impairment is required the impairment charge is reversed, up to the original impairment loss, and is recognised as a credit in the statement of financial activities.
The charity held approximately 50 birds of prey at the end of the year, but as there is a worldwide prohibition on the sale and purchase of these birds, the value of the stock is deemed to be nil.
2.6. Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand and deposits held at call with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments that mature in no more than three months from the date of acquisition and are readily convertible to a known amount of cash with insignificant risk of change in value, and bank overdrafts.
2.7. Pensions
The charity operates a defined pension contribution scheme. Contributions are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities as they become payable in accordance with the rules of the scheme.
3. Income from Donations and Legacies
| 3. Income from Donations and Legacies |
||
|---|---|---|
| Donations and gifts Member subscriptions and sponsorships Gift aid Grants |
2025 Unrestricted funds £ 39,277 674 4,819 5,000 |
2024 Unrestricted funds £ 17,406 359 1,631 - |
| 49,770 | 19,396 |
Income from donations and Legacies was £49,770 (2024, £19,396) all of which are attributable to unrestricted funds.
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Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
The following grants are included within the total income from donations and legacies above:
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Unrestricted | |
| funds | funds | |
| £ | £ | |
| Grant for Generator | 5,000 | - |
The generator and installation thereof cost £3,000, but the remaining grant is able to be put into general funds.
4. Income from Other Trading Activities
| Income from other trading activities Consultancy services |
2025 Unrestricted funds £ 1,500 2,645 |
2024 Unrestricted funds £ 2,575 225 |
|---|---|---|
| 4,145 | 2,800 |
- Investment Income
| 5. Investment Income |
||
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| **Unrestricted ** | Unrestricted | |
| funds | funds | |
| £ | £ | |
| Interest on short-term deposits | 21,421 | 7,833 |
All investment income is bank deposit interest, and the full amount received (£21,421 (2024£7,833) is attributable to Unrestricted Funds.
6. Net Income/(Expenditure)
The net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||
| Bad debts | 575 | - | |
| Depreciation of tangible fixed assets - owned | 63 | - |
Page 17
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
7. Analysis of Expenditure
| Raising funds Management of Birds of Prey Governance costs Other costs Management of Birds of Prey Governance costs Other costs |
Activities undertaken directly £ - 38,712 - 846 |
Support costs (see note 8 ) £ 426 5,761 6,340 823 |
2025 Total £ 426 44,473 6,340 1,669 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39,558 | 13,350 | 52,908 | |
| Activities undertaken directly £ 36,637 - 845 |
Support costs (see note 8 ) £ 2,859 6,157 543 |
2024 Total £ 39,496 6,157 1,388 |
|
| 37,482 | 9,559 | 47,041 |
All charitable activity and support cost expenditure totalling £52,908 (2024 - £47,041) was unrestricted expenditure.
Page 18
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
8. Support Costs
| Employee costs: Travel and subsistence expenses Premises expenses: Light and heat General administration: Insurance Postage Advertising and marketing costs Legal fees Bank charges Bad debts written off Depreciation: Depreciation Governance costs: Independent examiner's fees Premises expenses: Light and heat General administration: Insurance Bank charges Governance costs: Independent examiner's fees |
Raising funds £ - - - - 426 - - - - - |
Management of Birds of Prey £ - 5,761 - - - - - - - - |
Governance costs £ - - 4,233 - - 33 - - - 2,074 |
Other costs £ 33 - - 36 - - 116 575 63 - |
2025 Total £ 33 5,761 4,233 36 426 33 116 575 63 2,074 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 426 | 5,761 | 6,340 | 823 | 13,350 | |
| Management of Birds of Prey £ 2,859 - - - |
Governance costs £ - 4,207 - 1,950 |
Other costs £ - - 543 - |
2024 Total £ 2,859 4,207 543 1,950 |
||
| 2,859 | 6,157 | 543 | 9,559 |
Page 19
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
9. Independent Examiner's Remuneration
| Independent examination of the financial statements 10. Staff Costs Staff costs were as follows: Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs |
2025 £ 2,074 2025 £ 25,265 - 571 25,836 |
2024 £ 1,950 2024 £ 25,000 183 563 25,746 |
|---|---|---|
No employees received employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) for the reporting period of more than £60,000.
11. Average Number of Employees
Average number of employees during the year was: 1 (2024: 1)
12. Tangible Assets
| 12. Tangible Assets |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost As at 1 December 2024 Additions As at 30 November 2025 Depreciation As at 1 December 2024 Provided during the period As at 30 November 2025 Net Book Value As at 30 November 2025 As at 1 December 2024 |
Land & Property Freehold £ 1,200,000 - |
Plant & Machinery £ - 3,000 |
Total £ 1,200,000 3,000 |
| 1,200,000 | 3,000 | 1,203,000 | |
| - - |
- 63 |
- 63 |
|
| - | 63 | 63 | |
| 1,200,000 | 2,937 | 1,202,937 | |
| 1,200,000 | - | 1,200,000 |
Page 20
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
14. Debtors
| 14. Debtors |
||
|---|---|---|
| Due within one year Trade debtors Other debtors 15. Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals and deferred income |
2025 £ - 677 677 2025 £ 1,974 112 2,224 4,310 |
2024 £ 575 583 |
| 1,158 | ||
| 2024 £ 2,094 109 2,085 |
||
| 4,288 |
15. Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year
16. Pension Commitments
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.
During the year the charge to the statement of financial activities in respect of defined contribution schemes was £571 (2024: £563).
At the statement of financial position date contributions of £112 (2024: £109) were due to the fund and are included in creditors.
Page 21
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
17. Movement in Funds
| Unrestricted funds General: General unrestricted fund Endowment funds Permanent: Endowment Fund Total funds Unrestricted funds General: General unrestricted fund Endowment funds Permanent: Endowment Fund Total funds |
As at 1 December 2024 £ 465,335 1,200,000 |
Income £ 75,336 - |
Expenditure £ (56,296 ) - |
As at 30 November 2025 £ 484,375 1,200,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,665,335 | 75,336 | (56,296 ) | 1,684,375 | |
| As at 1 December 2023 £ 486,238 1,200,000 |
Income £ 30,029 - |
Expenditure £ (50,932 ) - |
As at 30 November 2024 £ 465,335 1,200,000 |
|
| 1,686,238 | 30,029 | (50,932 ) | 1,665,335 |
The property donated to the charity can only be used for the purposes of the conservation, protection, and management of all species of vulture and other globally endangered birds of prey. The property may not be sold to generate funds.
Page 22
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
18. Transactions with Trustees
The following trustees have been paid remuneration or have received other benefits from the charity or related entity:
| Name of trustee | **Legal authority ** | Remuneration | Pension | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contributions | Total | |||
| £ | £ | £ | ||
| Governing | ||||
| Elizabeth Cale | document | 25,265 | 571 | 25,836 |
| provision |
During the previous year the following trustees have been paid remuneration or have received other benefits from the charity or a related entity:
| Name of trustee | **Legal authority ** | Remuneration | Pension | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contributions | Total | |||
| £ | £ | £ | ||
| Governing | ||||
| Elizabeth Cale | document | 25,183 | 563 | 25,746 |
| provision |
No trustee expenses have been incurred.
19. Related Party Disclosures
Brett Sloman
Trustee
Donations from Trustee totalling £665.
Page 23
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Detailed Statement of Financial Activities For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
| INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM: Donations and legacies Donations and gifts Sponsorships Gift aid Grants Other trading activities Income from other trading activities Sale of Pin badges Investments Interest on short term deposits EXPENDITURE ON: Raising funds Advertising and marketing costs Charitable Activities: Management of Birds of Prey Bird Food Veterinary fees Veterinary consumables Laboratory fees Trustees' salaries Trustees' NI Trustees' pensions - defined contribution schemes Repairs and maintenance of aviaries Light and heat Governance costs Insurance |
2025 Total funds £ 39,277 674 4,819 5,000 |
|---|---|
| 49,770 1,500 2,645 |
|
| 4,145 21,421 |
|
| 21,421 | |
| 75,336 (426) |
|
| (426) (7,528) (2,743) - - (25,265) - (571) (2,605) (5,761) |
Page 24
Manfred Horstmann Vulture Conservation Trust Detailed Statement of Financial Activities (continued) For The Year Ended 30 November 2025
| Legal fees Independent examiner's fees Other costs Waste disposal Travel and subsistence expenses Postage Bank charges Bad debts written off Depreciation Other Bookkeeping costs Subscriptions Other expenses NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) |
(33) (2,074) |
- (1,950) |
|---|---|---|
| (6,340) (846) (33) (36) (116) (575) (63) |
(6,157) (845) - - (543) - - |
|
| (1,669) (1,575) (1,308) (505) |
(1,388) (2,175) (1,333) (383) |
|
| (3,388) | (3,891) | |
| (56,296) | (50,932) | |
| 19,040 | (20,903) |
Page 25