# **THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF FORDINGBRIDGE AND HYDE AND BREAMORE AND HALE WITH WOODGREEN** **ALSO KNOWN AS** ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES** ## **AND** ## **UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** **Charity Number: 1201768** ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ||**Page**| |---|---| |**Charity Information**|1| |**Report of the Trustees**|2| |**Independent Examiner's Report**|10| |**Statement of Financial Activities**|11| |**Balance Sheet**|12| |**Notes to the Financial Statements**|13| ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **CHARITY INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **BOARD OF TRUSTEES:** All members of the PCC are trustees of the charity (see page 9 for details) ## **PRINCIPAL ADDRESS:** Avon Valley Churches The Rainbow Centre 39 Salisbury Street Fordingbridge SP6 1AB > **CHARITY NUMBER:** 1201768 > **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER:** Simon Ellingham BA FCA DChA Fawcetts LLP Chartered Accountants Windover House St Ann Street Salisbury SP1 2DR ## **BANKERS:** NatWest Bank plc Lloyds Bank plc 48 Blue Boar Row 25 High Street Salisbury Ringwood SP1 1DF BH24 1BD 1 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** The members of the Parochial Church Council of the Avon Valley Churches present their annual report and accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024. The accounts have been examined independently and the report of the examiner, Simon Ellingham BA FCA DChA of Fawcetts LLP, is set out on page 10. The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in Note 1 to the accounts and comply with the applicable law, the requirements of the Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102), and the Charities Act 2011. ## **AIM AND PURPOSES** The Parish ceased to be in a vacancy on February 28th 2024, when our new rector, the Rev Luke Wickings, was installed. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of the Avon Valley Churches, in cooperation with the Rector of the Avon Valley Churches, has the responsibility of promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the Church Buildings, associated buildings and churchyards of the Parish - St Mary's Fordingbridge and the Church Hall; Holy Ascension Hyde, Church Centre Hyde, churchyard Hyde and the churchyard at Ibsley; St Mary's Breamore; St Mary's Hale; St Boniface Woodgreen; St Aldhelm's Sandleheath (leased to the Sandleheath Village Hall Association on a long fully repairing lease); St Giles' Godshill (not at present used for public worship, but as a retreat and visitors’ centre). ## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES** The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our Churches and to become part of the Church communities of the Parish. The PCC maintains an overview of worship throughout the Parish and makes suggestions on how our Services can involve the many groups that live within our Parish. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. When planning our activities for the year, we have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. In particular, we try to enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through: - l Worship and prayer; learning about the Gospel; and developing their knowledge and trust in Jesus. - l Provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish. - l Missionary and outreach work. To facilitate this work it is important that we maintain the fabric of the churches and halls in the parish. (continued on next page) 2 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE** _"Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done." (Matthew 6v10)_ Our purpose as God’s Church here in the Avon Valley is to build God’s kingdom and to fulfil his purposes, and we have sought to continue to do this over the past year. The following outlines some of the achievements of the past year. ## **PASTORAL CARE** _"Love one another, as I have loved you." (John 13v34)_ Mary Melbourne leads the pastoral care team, and they are such a blessing to us. We are also grateful to each member of our congregation who checks-up on a Christian friend, makes that phone call, or undertakes that home or hospital visit. And, of course, we must also remember those who run regular services in our local care-homes, and those who take Holy Communion to brothers and sisters in their homes, or visiting those who are housebound. It is, of course, beholden on all of us to ‘love one another’, and we have seen this happening so much across our parish. ## **WORSHIP AND PRAYER** _"You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory, honour and power." (Revelation 4v11)_ Our regular worship is a vital part of doing God’s will and building God’s kingdom, and we have, of course, worshipped our Lord across our various churches throughout the year. We are so grateful and indebted to everyone who has made this possible; to priests, curates, lay ministers, licensed preachers and ministers, to wardens, singers, choirs, musicians, servers and directors of music; and of course, to our congregation members. We have so many people in our churches to thank. May God’s blessing be upon us all as we worship and serve God together. ## **ECUMENICAL RELATIONSHIPS** _Jesus prayed: "I pray that they will all be one." (John 17v21)_ The parish is a member of “Fordingbridge Churches Together” and on 19 January we held the service to mark the week of prayer for Christian Unity in St Mary’s Fordingbridge. It was a blessing as we were joined by members of various other churches and worshipped with them, offering together praise and worship to God. The relationships between us and other churches remain good. Indeed, over the past year the rector has met one-to-one with the ministers of the Salvation Army and the URC, and has attended joint prayer breakfasts with brothers and sisters from a number of local churches. On a related note, we have been blessed to have a number of brethren from the now closed URC in Fordingbridge coming to worship with us, and several members of our churches attended their final service. We were saddened by the closure of the URC, but we remain as brothers and sisters, working together in the service of Christ. (continued on next page) 3 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **OUTREACH** : _"Go and make disciples." (Matthew 28v19)_ The Alpha course has been a real blessing to many. At the end of 2024 we ran the course for Church members, and those who attended were blessed and strengthened in their faith. This year we have offered the course to others, both inside and outside the existing church communities. A good number are attending. Some are already strong in faith, but some are enquiring and seeking God. we thank God for them all and, with God’s help, we will see the Church grow as new disciples are drawn into His Kingdom. Please pray for us as we do so. Two other significant outreach events are the showing of The Chosen, and the recent Epiphany play. These have been great opportunities for us to invite friends, relatives and neighbours to hear the goodnews of Jesus Christ in contemporary and engaging ways. May we, Christ’s people in the Avon Valley churches, continue to use all such opportunities to share the good news with our communities. The parish continues to serve the two church schools where members take regular assemblies, and Messy Church continues at Hyde. Holiday activities for children are run in Fordingbridge under the auspices of the AVCM. ## **MINISTERIAL DEVELOPMENT AND SEVICE** : _"To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." (1 Corinthians 12v7)_ Another of the blessings that we have received in the past year is the growth of various church members in ministry. In June, Ruth Crosland and Vicky Semple were ordained and have joined us as curates and deacons in the Parish. In June 2025 Alex Sains will be ordained Deacon and Ruth and Vicky will be priested. Also, Julian Sims began his training as an ordinand and will be ordained in 2026. In addition, both Mary Melbourne and Julie Francis have been licensed as Anna Chaplains, and Julie continues to move forward as she explores God’s calling upon her life, most recently applying for the forthcoming Bishop’s Permission to Preach course. The parish also has a large number of people who have received the Bishop’s Commission to serve in a variety of areas in the parish and others continue to seek to serve God in both new ways and old. Others are also exploring God’s calling upon their lives. And, of course, we join them, working together and offering our own gifts and service to glorify God, to bless and build up his Church and to extend his kingdom, because we are all ministers in Christ’s name. And so, may God continue to lead each of us as we consider God’s calling on our own lives. ## **BUILDINGS AND CHURCHYARDS** : _"And there (Abram) built and altar to the Lord." (Genesis 12v8)_ Our beautiful buildings, the places where we worship, are themselves testimony to the faithfulness of God to his people over the centuries. It is therefore our responsibility to care for and to maintain these lovely churches. Over the past year we have sought to do so. The congregation at Hale and Woodgreen congregation have applied for grants, fundraised, given and worked to see the roof of St Mary’s, Hale repaired. Meanwhile, at Fordingbridge, the beautiful north chapel windows have been repaired and put back in place, the church interior redecorated, and (continued on next page) 4 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **BUILDINGS AND CHURCHYARDS (CONTINUED)** plaques installed, having been transported from the Methodist Church, and much more work is ‘in the pipeline. Thanks to all who have worked to make this possible. The beautiful churchyard at Breamore is open annually for the Snowdrop display, which is celebrated on Snowdrop Sunday. At Hyde we have recently celebrated the 10 year anniversary of the opening of the Church centre. This building has been such a blessing to the Church and to the community, and will continue to be so. The churchyard at Hyde is maintained by regular voluntary groups as well as maintenance of the grass and hedges during the Summer months by a local contractor. We are grateful to all of the congregation members who give generously, who clean, tidy and volunteer for work parties. ## **DEANERY SYNOD** The AVC has four members on the Deanery Synod which is a link between our PCC and the Diocesan Synod. Its role is mainly to look after mission and pastoral matters in the Deanery, help parishes deliver the Diocesan strategic priorities and to monitor and support the allocation of Parish Share across the Deanery to the Common Mission Fund. Christchurch Deanery Synod met three times in 2024, in February, May and October. The year began with a February Zoom meeting when the main speaker was Jordan Shepherd, Creative Communications Officer & Generous Giving Promoter for Winchester diocese. Jordan’s presentation with slides looked at ways churches could increase income beyond regular giving and one off fundraising events. They ranged from simple small additions like introducing a card reader for donations to large enterprises such as creating a music venue or coffee shop. In May at St Mary the Virgin Bransgore, Revd Sam Scott, the Diocesan Environment Officer, gave an informative presentation with slides on Creation Care and what we can do together to respond to God’s call through Discipleship, Mission and Resource Stewardship. June saw the first Deanery Ideas Fair, held at St Mary’s Fordingbridge where churches from across the Deanery offered ideas for other churches to adopt. It was also an opportunity to share information from Mothers Union and Kinkiizi. Sadly, it was the last occasion led by Area Dean Revd Canon Gary Philbrick. The Deanery was shocked and saddened by Gary’s sudden death in July from malaria. The Assistant Area Dean Revd Canon Charles Stewart and the Deanery lay chair Sue Lyonette have stepped up to steer the Deanery through the remainder of the year and thanks must go to them for all they are doing. We are still currently without an Area Dean. (continued on next page) 5 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **DEANERY SWORD (CONTINUED)** The final meeting of 2024 was held in October at Christchurch Priory. We learned more about the major project at the Priory still in its early stages but with ambitious plans to renovate and upgrade various aspects of the buildings. A presentation was also given to highlight the partnership the Deanery has with Kinkiizi Diocese in Uganda. The Deanery overseas link with Kinkiizi continues to operate. The Deanery was asked to help with financing an upgrade to the solar power at the Health Centre in Nyakatare and to support the new obstetrics doctor at the maternity unit. Following a Deanery wide appeal £5531 was raised. The solar upgrade is now complete and gives much needed reliable power for Health Centre activities. Retired clergy were also supported with financial help towards unexpected expenses like medical bills. In 2024 a total of £5881 was sent in support of Kinkiizi Diocese. During 2024 there have been a number of parishes in vacancy, but Deanery officers have worked hard to support churches through the process of their interregnums. Some appointments have been made and new clergy begin to make a difference in those places. Deanery Synod meetings are now all open meetings for anyone to attend should they so wish. (Only if a vote is called are restrictions in place for elected members only to cast such a vote.) I would encourage everyone to consider coming along to hear interesting speakers, have a chance to meet other people from across the Deanery, and to share experiences for mutual support. Gill Tybjerg (Deanery Secretary) ## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** The church office manages all the central funds while each local church area has its own assistant treasurer who manages the funds for that LCA. The parish treasurer has an overview of all the funds and is responsible for checking the central fund and for consolidating all the accounts at the end of the financial year. The PCC aims to have a reserves policy of keeping a balance of at least 3 months in unrestricted funds. The parish has been granted a reduction in the requested CMF and is now in the second year of the proposed “flight plan”. In 2024 the parish was asked to pay the reduced amount of £74,396 and this was achieved. In 2025 we are asked to pay the reduced amount of £81,742 but the response to “generous giving” at St Mary’s Fordingbridge enabled them to pay more than they were asked and in 2025 the parish will pay £84,612. (continued on next page) 6 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** **----- Start of picture text -----**
CMF Request (Flight Actual Request Reduction Granted
Path) (estimate at 2%
increase per annum)
2024 £ 74,394.56 £ 117,394.56 £ 43,000.00
2025 £ 81,742.45 £ 119,742.45 £ 38,000.00
2026 £ 90,137.30 £ 122,137.30 £ 32,000.00
2027 £ 99,580.05 £ 124,580.05 £ 25,000.00
2028 £ 110,071.65 £ 127,071.65 £ 17,000.00
2029 £ 121,613.08 £ 129,613.08 £ 8,000.00
£ 132,205.34 £ 132,205.34 £ -
2030
(indicative) (indicative)
**----- End of picture text -----**
The “Generous Giving” initiative resulted in a very generous response from the congregations. Hale & Woodgreen raised sufficient funds through grants and donations to repair the roof at Hale and do some remedial work at Woodgreen. St Mary’s, Fordingbridge has been able to increase the amount they will pay towards the CMF contribution and have continued with the work on the church. Hyde has been able to maintain its giving at a good level despite the death of several benefactors and Breamore is also showing a healthy end of year budget. The total income in the year was £364,236 compared with £254,110 last year. This was largely due to VAT refunds and one-off grants, (£73,527). Fordingbridge has continued with the program of work – another £15,315 - which has come from the designated fund for that purpose. Hale and Woodgreen has spent £32,411 on essential building work and this has been funded from donations, legacies and grants. This has been a major achievement by a dedicated congregation. The PCC would like to give special thanks to all the local treasurers for their work during the year and, in particular, to the Hyde local treasurer who has done so much towards preparing the final accounts for the year. ## **VOLUNTEERS** We would like to thank all the volunteers who make it possible for the churches to continue to be effective places of worship and outreach. We would also like to thank our wonderful team of retired clergy and the lay ministry team who have worked with the rector to serve all the churches and provide the welcoming ministry in them. The PCC is very grateful to the many volunteers in all of the churches who contribute so much, seen or unseen, and who make the parish the welcoming and vibrant community that it is. (continued on next page) 7 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT** The PCC accepts the House of Bishops' safeguarding guidance, both policies and practice, and it publishes and regularly reviews its Safeguarding Policy; we have a central safeguarding officer and assistants in each local church area. The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules, supplemented by the AVC PCC Handbook; this can only be substantially amended by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. The membership of the single PCC is made up as follows: - l The Rector - l 2 Churchwardens from each Local Area (=8) - l 1 PCC Member from each Local Church Area (=4) - l Any licenced Clergy (including Curates) - l 4 Deanery Representatives (current number) - l 1 Licenced Lay Minister All those who attend our services and all members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The PCC members are trustees of the whole parish and 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. The full PCC met nine times during the year (including the APCM). ## **ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION** The Avon Valley Churches Parish is part of the Christchurch deanery in the Diocese of Winchester within the Church of England. The postal address of the Parish is: The Church Office 16 Glasshouse Studios Fryern Court Road Fordingbridge SP6 1QX Tel: 01425 653163 The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Power Measure 1956, Church Represenation Rules 2006) and a charity registered with the Charity Commission (1201768). 8 AVOM VALLEY CHURCHES REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 ADMINisfRATIVE IP4FORMATION {coKfiNUED) PCC members who have served at any time during 2024 are: Incumbent". Revd Luke Wickings Ifrorn 28 February 2024) Licensed Assistant Priest: Revd Canon Nigel Coates Assistant Curates.. Revd Victoria Semple {from 29 June 2024) Revd Ruth Crosland Ifrom 29 June 20241 Mr Mark Ward (from 8 May 20241 Mr Martin Ing5 Fordingbridge Hyde Mrs Mary Melboume Breamore Mrs Lynda Warne Mrs Janet Butcher Hale with Woodgreen Hyde Mrs Christine Calder (from 8 May 20241 Hale with Woodgreen RePresentst￿es on the Deanery Synod. elerted for 3 year5 2023- 2026.. Mr Mark Ward* (olso Wardenj Mr Julian Sims Mrs Lynette Stsnford Mrs Cjane Cant Warden5: Fordingbridge Hyde Breamore Hale wrth Woodgreen Elected Lay Member5: Mrs Heather Clark fPonsh Treusurerj Mr Nigel Spratt" fPCCSecretoryJ Mr5 Alex Sains (until 8 May 2024) Mrs Alison Stevens (until 8 May 20241 Mrs Janet Spratt. (from 8 May 20241 Mr lan Newman. 1Atsi5tont Wordenj Ms Lyn Dudman (from 8 May 20241 Mr Dennis White (from 8 May 2024) Hyde Fordingbridge Fordingbridge 8reamore Fordingbridge Fordingbridge Hale with Woodgreen Breamore 'The total number of members from Fordingbridge is four as specified in the PCC handbook. Approved by the PCC on 17 March 2025 and signed on their behalf by: Revd. Luke Wlcklngs Chair Nigel Spratt PCC Secretsry INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF FORDINGBRIDGE AND HYDE AND BREAMORE AND HALE WITH WOODGREEN I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accottnts of the charity for tlie year ended 31 Deiember 2024, which corllpri5e the Statement of Financial Activitie5, the B3laiice Sheet, aiid the related notes. Responsibilities and basis of report As the charity's trustees you are responsible lor the prepafation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 20111'the Act'l. I report in respect of my examination of the charity's èccounts cèrried out under Section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commi55ion under Section 1451511bl ol the Act. Independent examiner's statement Since the charity's gross in¢ome exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in Section 145 of the Act. I confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member Of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Er)gland and Wales, which is one of the listed bodles. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no materi31 matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any materi31 respect.. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as reqvired by Section 130 of the Act,. the accounts do not accord with those record5; or the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concernin£ the form and content of accounts set out in the Chariries IAccDiJnt5 and Reporisl Regu13tions 2008 other than any equirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view. which is not a Inatter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concèriis and have come across no other matteys in ttsnnection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts lo be reached, Simon Ellin ham BAFCADChA Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Fawcetts LLP Chartered Accountants Windover House St Ann Street Salisbury SPI 2DR Dated.. io ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** |**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**
**Note**
Donations and legacies
3a
Other trading activities
3b
Investments
3c
Charitable activities
3d
Other income
3e
**TOTAL INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**
**EXPENDITURE ON:**
Raising funds
4a
Charitable activities
4b
Governance costs
4c
**TOTAL EXPENDITURE**
**GAINS / (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS**
Realised gains/(losses)
Unrealised gains/(losses)
**NET GAINS / (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS**
**NET (EXPENDITURE) / INCOME**
Transfers between funds
**NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS:**
**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**
Total funds brought forward|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
195,327
19,510
11,449
18,051
76,180
**320,517**
4,353
213,276
2,100
**219,729**
-
257
**257**
**101,045**
4,955
**106,000**
232,390
**338,390**|**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
41,755
396
1,568
-
-
**43,719**
-
38,441
-
**38,441**
-
2,812
**2,812**
**8,090**
(4,955)
**3,135**
176,372
**179,507**|**Endowment**
**Funds**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
**-**
-
-
-
**-**
-
-
**-**
**-**
-
**-**
-
**-**|**Totals**
**2024**
**£**
237,082
19,906
13,017
18,051
76,180
**364,236**
4,353
251,717
2,100
**258,170**
-
3,069
**3,069**
**109,135**
-
**109,135**
408,762
**517,897**|**Totals**
**2023**
**£**
187,745
12,505
19,156
17,582
17,122
**254,110**
4,437
639,377
2,100
**645,914**
269
9,818
**10,087**
**(381,717)**
-
**(381,717)**
790,479
**408,762**| |---|---|---|---|---|---| The notes form part of these financial statements 11 AVON VALL￿ CHURQIES BALANCE 5HEEr 31 DECEMBER 2024 2023 FIXED ASSETS Investments 132.4C¥) 204,496 CURRE1￿ ASSErs Agency collertion Debtors Prepayments and accrued income Cash at bank and in hand 15,870 312 8,033 371.668 387J50 205,363 213396 CREDITORS. AMoupif5 FAWNG DUEwmiiN ONE YEAR Agency collectlon Accounts payable Accruals 173 2.IC(I 9,100 9,13Q N￿cUlIRENt ASSEtS 385.497 204.266 TOTAL ASSEfs LE55 CURREPU LIABILMES 517A97 408.762 CHARITY FUNDS Un￿strIcted- General funds Unrestricted- Des$8nated funds Restricted fvnds Endowment fuThds 3,025 335.365 179.507 275 232,115 176.372 TOTAL FUNDS 517,897 408.76Z The financial statements were approved aml authorised for issue by the par￿h￿31 Church Council on and were si8ned on its bèhalf bv= Revd. Luke Wl¢kln8s Chair Ni¥tl Spratt PCC Secretsry The notesfomi partof these finarKial statemerrts 12 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **1a. ACCOUNTING POLICIES** The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 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 United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102)) and the Charities Act 2011. The charity does not meet the definition of a larger charity under the Charities SORP and is therefore exempt from the requirement to prepare a cash flow statements. The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis. The financial statements are prepared in Sterling (£) which is the functional currency of the charity. The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated. ## **1b. FUND ACCOUNTING** General (unrestricted) funds of the charity are not subject to any special restrictions regarding their use and are available for application to the general purposes of the charity. Designated (unrestricted) funds comprise monies set aside for a particular purpose by the charity, including funds designated for the benefit of particular local church areas. Restricted and endowment funds comprise (a) income from endowments which are to be expended only on the restricted purposes intended by the donor and (b) revenue donations or grants for a specific charity activity intended by the donor or which have been raised by the charity for a particular purpose. The cost of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. A summary of the purposes of each restricted and endowment fund is available on request. ## **1c. INCOME RECOGNITION** 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. 13 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **1c. INCOME RECOGNITION (continued)** No amount is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102). Fixed asset gifts in kind are recognised when receivable and are included at fair value. They are not deferred over the life of the asset. ## **1d. EXPENDITURE RECOGNITION** 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. The irrecoverable element of VAT is included within the item of expense to which it relates. ## **1e. DEBTORS** Debtors are measured at their recoverable amounts. ## **1f. CREDITORS AND PROVISIONS** Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due. ## **1g. PENSION COSTS** The charity contributes to the individual defined contribution pension schemes of employees. Contributions to this scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities as they become payable. ## **1h. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS** Fixed asset investments are stated at market value at the balance sheet date. Realised and unrealised gains and losses are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities in the year in which they arise. 14 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **2. STAFF COSTS** |Wages and salaries
Social security
Defined contribution pension costs|**2024**
**£**
37,326
-
526
37,851|**2023**
**£**
34,665
-
495
35,160| |---|---|---| The average monthly number of employees during the period was as follows: |Administration
Music
Assistant staff|**2024**
1
2
1
4|**2023**
1
2
1
4| |---|---|---| No employees received total employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) of more than £60,000. The trustees neither received nor waived any remuneration during the period. The charity considers its key management personnel comprise the trustees. Key management personnel are not remunerated. A total of £934 (2023: £146) was paid to five trustees (2023: one trustee) as reimbursed travel expenses. 15 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **3. INCOMING RESOURCES** |**General**
**Designated**
**Funds**
**Funds**
**£**
**£**
**3a. INCOMING RESOURCES FROM DONORS**
Church collections
-
116,367
Special collections
-
941
Wall Safe
-
-
Donations appeals
1,222
10,008
Legacies
-
16,000
Tax Recovered on Gift Aid
128
36,479
Grants received
-
4,575
Breamore Rectory Trust
8,400
-
Other funds generated
-
1,207
9,750
185,577
**3b. ACTIVITIES FOR GENERATING FUNDS**
Fair trade sales
-
2,068
Fundraising
101
17,341
101
19,409
**3c. INCOME FROM INVESTMENTS**
Dividends
-
3,046
Bank interest
-
8,403
-
11,449
**3d. INCOMING RESOURCES FROM**
**CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES**
Fees for weddings and funerals
-
14,210
Parish magazine sales and advertising
-
3,841
-
18,051
**3e. OTHER INCOMING RESOURCES**
VAT refunded
-
66,452
Church hall lettings
-
8,412
Miscellaneous
912
404
912
75,268
**TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES**
**10,763**
**309,754**
**Unrestricted**|**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
13,467
1,833
-
11,121
11,901
333
3,100
-
-
41,755
-
396
396
424
1,144
1,568
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
**43,719**|**Endowment**
**Funds**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
**-**|**Totals**
**2024**
**£**
129,834
2,774
-
22,351
27,901
36,940
7,675
8,400
1,207
237,082
2,068
17,838
19,906
3,470
9,547
13,017
14,210
3,841
18,051
66,452
8,412
1,316
76,180
**364,236**|**Totals**
**2023**
**£**
119,191
2,372
-
15,546
5,500
28,177
3,515
12,600
844
187,745
1,979
10,526
12,505
5,067
14,089
19,156
13,415
4,167
17,582
7,796
8,623
703
17,122
**254,110**| |---|---|---|---|---| 16 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **4. TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED** |**4a. COST OF GENERATING FUNDS**
Fairtrade costs
Magazine expenses
Fundraising
**4b. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES**
Outward giving
Deanery share
Salary of Parish administrator
Director of music and organist
Tax/NI paid on salaries
Pension on salaries
Assistant staff costs
Clergy expenses
Common Mission Fund
Mission and Outreach
Nurture
Insurance
Benefice of the future
Organists' fees
Organ/piano tuning
Church building maintenance
Church building repairs
Routine maintenance
Cleaning
Upkeep of services
Upkeep of churchyard
Administration and printing
Heat, light and water
Office rental
Church hall maintenance
Church hall repairs
Miscellaneous expenses
Office cost contributions from LCCs
Professional fees
**4c. GOVERNANCE COSTS**
Independent examiner's fee
Accountancy
**TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED**|**General**
**Designated**
**Funds**
**Funds**
**£**
**£**
-
1,569
-
2,015
-
769
-
4,353
1,107
716
-
-
17,538
-
-
10,227
-
-
526
-
9,561
-
2,507
47
-
74,396
-
446
1,203
303
-
13,490
-
-
-
1,663
-
887
-
2,698
-
21,833
-
3,827
-
986
-
3,320
-
2,256
2,857
1,002
-
26,322
2,453
-
-
5,798
-
-
1,739
3,568
(33,578)
33,578
-
-
5,913
207,363
2,100
-
-
-
2,100
-
**8,013**
**211,716**
**Unrestricted**|**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
-
-
-
-
2,704
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
290
31,166
-
1,080
-
-
1,503
352
-
-
-
-
1,346
-
-
38,441
-
-
-
**38,441**|**Endowment**
**Funds**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
**-**|**Totals**
**2024**
**£**
1,569
2,015
769
4,353
4,527
-
17,538
10,227
-
526
9,561
2,554
74,396
446
1,506
13,490
-
1,663
1,177
33,864
21,833
4,907
986
3,320
3,759
4,211
26,322
2,453
5,798
-
6,653
-
-
251,717
2,100
-
2,100
**258,170**|**Totals**
**2023**
**£**
2,062
2,124
251
4,437
3,543
-
15,790
9,842
-
495
9,033
2,997
103,536
97
213
13,762
-
1,575
1,026
4,562
403,730
2,844
696
3,202
4,731
8,702
28,869
2,200
2,658
5,684
6,010
-
3,582
639,377
2,100
-
2,100
**645,914**| |---|---|---|---|---|---| 17 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **5. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS** |Market value at 1 January
Additions
Disposals at carrying value
Unrealised (loss) / gain on revaluation
Market value at 31 December|**Totals**
**2024**
**£**
204,496
1,466
(76,631)
3,069
132,400|**Totals**
**2023**
**£**
591,775
-
(397,097)
9,818
204,496| |---|---|---| ## **6. COMMON MISSION FUND** During the year, a contribution to the Common Mission Fund of £74,396 (2023: £103,536) was made. ## **7. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS** There were no related party transactions during the period with the exception of the transactions detailed in Note 2 to the financial statements. 18 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **8. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS** |**Unrestricted funds - general**
General fund
**Unrestricted funds - designated**
Fordingbridge:
General fund
CBF Investment fund
Special projects
Hyde:
General fund
Church and churchyard fund
Church hall repair fund
Fabric repair fund
Link magazine fund
Breamore:
General fund
Toilet fund
Flowers
Hale and Woodgreen:
General fund
Other general designated fund
Hales Angels fund
**Restricted funds**
Fordingbridge:
PCC sale of Church land
Fabric fund
CBF Shakespeare fund
CBF St Aldhelm's Sandleheath
CBF Fuel Trust
CBF Churchyard Trust
CBF Hastings Trust
CBF Heath Trust
Hyde:
Broadband fund
Charitable donations fund
Church improvements fund
Churchyard fund
Churchyard memorial fund
Fabric repair (Hulse) fund
Flower fund
Friends' fund
Ibsley churchyard
Music fund
Breamore:
CBF Breamore Tithe Chancel
CBF C S Hall legacy
CBF Ground rent
CBF Hulse and Rooke charity
CBF PCC Hall legacy
CBF Rawlence Trust
CBF Churchyard fund
CBF Sale of Church land
Fabric fund
Hale and Woodgreen:
Organ
Restoration
Madeleine Boiteux legacy
Margaret Booth-Jones fund
**Total funds**|**Balance at**
**1 Jan 2024**
**£**
275
275
5,823
8,510
95,652
53,701
10,000
2,400
4,536
2,906
14,742
1,753
352
31,326
-
414
232,115
2,086
567
1,685
107
151
922
349
1,280
352
495
19,905
899
211
2,092
151
2,404
-
70
7,728
6,285
3,301
1,559
846
17,248
5,244
67,627
18,721
-
7,229
3,359
3,499
176,373
**408,763**|**Incoming**
**resources**
**£**
10,763
10,763
105,275
-
82,452
55,366
-
688
-
3,841
28,251
-
-
33,806
-
75
309,754
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,326
-
3
-
403
-
-
600
-
346
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8,741
462
30,509
329
-
43,719
**364,236**|**Outgoing**
**resources**
**£**
(8,013)
(8,013)
(91,305)
-
(19,335)
(48,172)
-
(4,336)
-
(2,159)
(24,496)
-
(22)
(21,862)
-
(29)
(211,716)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(352)
(2,704)
(1,346)
(902)
-
(1,776)
-
-
(600)
(70)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(220)
(30,471)
-
-
(38,441)
**(258,170)**|**Investment**
**gains /**
**(losses)**
**£**
-
-
-
257
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
257
63
17
51
3
(34)
59
11
39
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
99
144
76
36
185
395
120
1,548
-
-
-
-
-
2,812
**3,069**|**Transfers**
**£**
-
-
64,000
-
(64,000)
-
-
2,000
-
(2,000)
(2,000)
-
-
6,955
-
-
4,955
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,000
4,000
(7,267)
(3,688)
-
(4,955)
**-**|**Balance at**
**31 December**
**2024**
**£**
3,025
3,025
83,793
8,767
94,769
60,895
10,000
752
4,536
2,588
16,497
1,753
330
50,225
-
460
335,365
2,149
584
1,736
110
117
981
360
1,319
-
117
18,559
-
211
719
151
2,404
-
-
8,173
6,429
3,377
1,595
1,031
17,643
5,364
69,175
29,462
4,242
-
-
3,499
179,507
**517,897**| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| 19 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **8. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (continued)** ## **UNRESTRICTED FUNDS:** ## **General free** These are funds which have been accumulated for the general purposes of the charity. At 31 December 2024 all funds are designated for specific local church areas and the charity holds no undesignated general funds. ## **Designated** These are funds which have been set aside by the charity for use in the future. Project funds are designated for particular projects for administration purposes only. All designated funds remain unrestricted and the charity may move any surplus to other general funds. ## **RESTRICTED AND ENDOWMENT FUNDS:** These funds comprise (a) income from endowments which are to be expended only on the restricted purposes intended by the donor and (b) revenue donations or grants for a specific charity activity intended by the donor. A summary of the purposes of each restricted and endowment fund is available on request. 20 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **9. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - COMPARATIVE BALANCES** |**Unrestricted funds - general**
General fund
**Unrestricted funds - designated**
Fordingbridge:
General fund
CBF Investment fund
Special projects
Hyde:
General fund
Church and churchyard fund
Church hall repair fund
Fabric repair fund
Link magazine fund
Breamore:
General fund
Toilet fund
Flowers
Hale and Woodgreen:
General fund
Other general designated fund
Hales Angels fund
**Restricted funds**
Fordingbridge:
PCC sale of Church land
Fabric fund
CBF Shakespeare fund
CBF St Aldhelm's Sandleheath
CBF Fuel Trust
CBF Churchyard Trust
CBF Hastings Trust
CBF Heath Trust
Hyde:
Broadband fund
Charitable donations fund
Church improvements fund
Churchyard fund
Churchyard memorial fund
Fabric repair (Hulse) fund
Flower fund
Friends' fund
Ibsley churchyard
Music fund
Breamore:
CBF Breamore Tithe Chancel
CBF C S Hall legacy
CBF Ground rent
CBF Hulse and Rooke charity
CBF PCC Hall legacy
CBF Rawlence Trust
CBF Churchyard fund
CBF Sale of Church land
Fabric fund
Hale and Woodgreen:
Organ
Restoration
Madeleine Boiteux legacy
Margaret Booth-Jones fund|**Balance at**
**1 Jan 2023**
**£**
-
-
55,923
8,060
454,023
33,457
10,000
1,770
4,378
7,863
11,361
1,753
352
30,779
3,616
364
623,699
1,976
537
1,596
101
101
903
330
1,212
1,000
248
9,905
1
211
85
151
2,404
340
-
7,164
5,745
3,017
1,425
947
15,765
4,793
61,812
26,484
4,407
18
3,359
3,499
159,537|**Incoming**
**resources**
**£**
12,694
12,694
106,621
-
9,061
55,106
-
815
158
4,167
24,869
-
-
17,683
3,795
50
222,325
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,554
10,000
450
-
52
-
-
-
250
193
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,103
-
4,489
-
-
19,091|**Outgoing**
**resources**
**£**
(12,419)
(12,419)
(127,283)
-
(396,870)
(46,177)
-
(185)
-
(2,124)
(30,354)
-
-
(15,484)
(9,063)
-
(627,540)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(2,307)
-
(1,442)
-
-
-
-
(340)
(180)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(216)
(1,469)
-
-
(5,954)|**Investment**
**gains /**
**(losses)**
**£**
-
-
-
450
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
450
110
30
89
6
50
19
19
68
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
371
540
284
134
(101)
1,483
451
5,815
-
-
-
-
-
9,368|**Transfers**
**£**
-
-
(29,438)
-
29,438
11,315
-
-
-
(7,000)
8,866
-
-
(1,652)
1,652
-
13,181
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(648)
-
-
1,890
-
1,955
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(8,866)
(4,191)
4,191
-
-
(5,669)|**Balance at**
**31 December**
**2023**
**£**
275
275
5,823
8,510
95,652
53,701
10,000
2,400
4,536
2,906
14,742
1,753
352
31,326
-
414
232,115
2,086
567
1,685
107
151
922
349
1,280
352
495
19,905
899
211
2,092
151
2,404
-
70
7,728
6,285
3,301
1,559
846
17,248
5,244
67,627
18,721
-
7,229
3,359
3,499
176,372| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| 21 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **9. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - COMPARATIVE BALANCES (continued)** |**Endowment funds**
Hyde:
Anna Jane Banks endowment
Barwise & Deakin endowment
E J H Banks endowment
M Ellen endowment
**Total funds**|**Balance at**
**1 Jan 2023**
**£**
1,309
1,818
2,236
1,880
7,243
**790,479**|**Incoming**
**resources**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
**254,110**|**Outgoing**
**resources**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
**(645,913)**|**Investment**
**gains /**
**(losses)**
**£**
45
72
77
75
269
**10,087**|**Transfers**
**£**
(1,354)
(1,890)
(2,313)
(1,955)
(7,512)
**-**|**Balance at**
**31 December**
**2023**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
**408,762**| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| ## **10. ALLOCATION OF THE CHARITY NET ASSETS** The net assets are held for the various funds as follows: |Unrestricted funds: general
Unrestricted funds: designated
Restricted funds
Endowment funds
Total
Unrestricted funds: general
Unrestricted funds: designated
Restricted funds
Endowment funds
Total
_Prior period net assets held for the various funds were as follows:_|**Fixed**
**Assets**
**£**
-
8,766
123,634
-
132,400
**Fixed**
**Assets**
**£**
-
75,923
128,573
-
204,496|**Net Current**
**Assets**
**£**
3,025
326,599
55,873
-
385,497
**Net Current**
**Assets**
**£**
275
156,192
47,799
-
204,266|**Long-term**
**Liabilities**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
**Long-term**
**Liabilities**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-|**2024**
**Total**
**£**
**3,025**
**335,365**
**179,507**
**-**
**517,897**
**2023**
**Total**
**£**
**275**
**232,115**
**176,372**
**-**
**408,762**| |---|---|---|---|---| 22 ## **AVON VALLEY CHURCHES** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** ## **11. PRIOR YEAR COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES** |**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**
**Note**
Donations and legacies
3a
Other trading activities
3b
Investments
3c
Charitable activities
3d
Other income
3e
**TOTAL INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**
**EXPENDITURE ON:**
Raising funds
4a
Charitable activities
4b
Governance costs
4c
**TOTAL EXPENDITURE**
**GAINS / (LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS**
Realised gains / (losses)
Unrealised gains / (losses)
**NET GAINS/(LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS**
**NET (EXPENDITURE) / INCOME**
Transfers between funds
**NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS:**
**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**
**at 31 December 2023**
Total funds brought forward at 1 January 2022|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
169,841
12,076
18,398
17,582
17,122
**235,019**
4,437
633,423
2,100
**639,960**
-
450
**450**
**(404,491)**
13,181
**(391,310)**
623,700
**232,390**|**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
17,904
429
758
-
-
**19,091**
-
5,954
-
**5,954**
-
9,368
**9,368**
**22,505**
(5,669)
**16,836**
159,536
**176,372**|**Endowment**
**Funds**
**£**
-
-
-
-
-
**-**
-
-
-
**-**
269
-
**269**
**269**
7,512
-
**(7,243)**
7,243
**-**|**Totals**
**2023**
**£**
187,745
12,505
19,156
17,582
17,122
**254,110**
4,437
639,377
2,100
**645,914**
269
9,818
**10,087**
**(381,717)**
-
**(381,717)**
790,479
**408,762**| |---|---|---|---|---| 23