13th Southampton Sea Scout Group
Southampton City District
Annual General Meeting and accounts for the year ended March 31st 2025
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13th Southampton Sea Scout Group Trustees Board from AGM 2024:
Trustees Appointed:
Trustees Elected:
Amanda Wallace Group Lead Volunteer Arthur Ashton Group President Kerry Budd Group Chairman Rex Budd Group Treasurer Laura Coles Group Assistant Treasurer
Trustees Nominated:
Dave Barclay Jo Williams Vicky Gray Davina Aburrow
Charity Commission registrations covering the Group:
Scout Association 306101 Hampshire County Scout Council 1015788 Southampton City Scout District 1117805 13[th] Southampton Sea Scout Group 1202227
Bankers:
NatWest Current and Business Reserve accounts
Scout Association Group Registration Number: 34582
Group Treasurer: Rex Budd, 25 Windbury Road, Southampton SO16 9NP
The accounts have been drawn up on the receipts and payments basis and were approved by the Trustees Board on 1st July 2025.
The examiners statement has been signed on their behalf by Group Chairman Kerry Budd and Treasurer Rex Budd and is to be placed on the Charity Commission website after the AGM.
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Saturday 12th July 2025
AGENDA
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Chairman opens the meeting.
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Introduction of Guests.
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Apologies.
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Minutes of the last Annual General Meeting.
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Approval and election of nominees to the Group Trustees Board.
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Approval of examined Group accounts for 2024-25.
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District Representative.
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Any Other Business - by the permission of the Chairman.
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Close meeting.
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Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held at the HQ on 19th June 2024.
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13th Southampton Sea Scout Group
AGM MINUTES 19th June 2024
ITEM Agenda Topic Action / Info
1 Opening Kerry as Chairman opened the meeting at 6.05 p.m.
Introductions of The Chairman introduced the guests Veronica Radford (District
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Guests Chairman)
Davina Aburrow, Sarah Groszewski, Rob&Holly Greenaway, Emma
Coomer, Claire Harlow, Lee Stewart, Tony Jackson, Adrian Potas, Ian
3 Apologies
Dempsey, Carmen Sherin, Sam Hollins, Lisa Scott, Kathryn Emery, Kelly
Denton, Vicky Gray, Emma Bowen.
The last AGM minutes were distributed by email as part of the Group
Minutes of the last
4 Annual Report. Proposed by Justin Dalton , seconded by Pete Stone,
AGM
and approved by the meeting.
Rex Budd remains as Treasurer - proposed by Maliana Mackintosh ,
Election of Treasurer
and seconded by Jason Ledwich . Laura Coles becomes Assistant
5 and Assistant
Treasurer - proposed by Pete Stone, and seconded by Justin Dalton .
Treasurer
Both approved by the meeting.
Laura Coles, Dave Barclay, Jo Williams, Vicky Gray, Davina Aburrow and
Arthur Ashton remain as Group Trustees - proposed by Jon Wallace ,
Election of nominees seconded by Naomi Ledwich and all approved by the meeting. Kerry
6 to the Group Trustees explained that changes introduced as part of the Scout Association
Board Transformation mean that the role of Secretary is no longer done by a
trustee. A minute taker for the Trustees Board will shortly be
appointed.
The examined accounts accepted by the Trustees Board on 11th June
were distributed by email as part of the Group Annual Report.
Approval of
Proposed by Justin Dalton, seconded by Pete Stone and approved by
7 examined Group
the meeting . Any comments or queries can be addressed by Rex later.
Accounts for 2023-24
Rex informed the meeting that the examiner Clive Finder is happy to
continue in the role.
GSL Amanda Wallace has distributed the constitution for a Group
Adoption of a new newly defined by the Scout Association as part of it's transformation.
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constitution Proposed by Claire Hayes, seconded by Maliana Mackintosh and
approved by the meeting.
District Chairman - Veronica praised the group for it's progress and development and gave
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Veronica Radford a general update on District business.
10 Any other Business None.
Dates for the 2025 AGM and the next Trustees Board meeting will be
11 Close Meeting
confirmed at a later date. Kerry closed the meeting at 6.30 p.m.
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Group Lead Volunteer’s AGM Report
Over the past 12 months, the 13th has proudly provided vital Scouting opportunities to more than 100 young members. Scouting offers young people a wealth of experiences designed to develop practical skills, build strong character, and foster a sense of community. Through engaging activities, outdoor adventures, and teamwork, our young members grow into confident, responsible individuals.
Our group is entirely run and managed by dedicated volunteers. Without their time, energy, and unwavering commitment, we simply couldn't deliver the incredible programme or maintain the fantastic facilities that we are fortunate to have.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to every one of our volunteers — the section teams, the board of trustees, our maintenance crew, and all the adult helpers who have supported us throughout the year.
Special thanks to:
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Squirrel Team – Nemo, Coral, and Mowgli
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Beaver Team – Angelfish, Pufferfish, Flounder, Dolphin, and Squid
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Cub Team – Akela, Shere Khan, Baloo, Hathi, and Mowgli
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Scout Team – Doc, Wings, Tech, and Torps
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Our Executive Committee – Chair Kerry, Treasurer Rex, Deputy Treasurer Laura
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Board of Trustees – David, Vicky, Jo, Davina, and Arthur
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Maintenance Team – Rex and Tony
You are all amazing, and we cannot thank you enough for your dedication and service.
Group Highlights
• In July 2024, we held a fantastic end-of-term campfire and awards night. During the evening, we celebrated our Squirrel, Beaver, Cub, and Scout of the Year award winners, and proudly presented Chief Scout Acorn, Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards – the highest achievement in each section. Congratulations to all our young people for their hard work and to our volunteers for making it possible.
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In November 2024, our group attended the annual Remembrance Service at St Peter’s Church. It
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was wonderful to see so many of our young members there, looking smart and showing great respect. We were incredibly proud of every one of them.
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At the District Cross Country event in March 2025, all four sections were represented. Every
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Squirrel, Beaver, Cub, and Scout who took part gave it their all – well done! Thank you also to the volunteers and parents who helped marshal on the day.
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We recently installed new benches in our outdoor covered area – a much-needed and safer
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upgrade. Thank you to Tesco for generously funding this improvement along with the Joyce family who donated one in memory of Tony.
• We’ve also secured funding to update some of our essential equipment and were thrilled to receive brand new tents, just in time for the District Camp in May 2025. Thank you to the Richard Kirkman trust for donating the money to purchase.
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These are just a few of the many things our group has achieved over the last year.
We’re always on the lookout for support – whether through fundraising, helping within sections, or assisting with maintenance. If you’re able to lend a hand in any way, please don’t hesitate to speak to me.
We’re incredibly proud of everything the 13th has accomplished, and we’re excited to see what the next 12 months will bring!
YIS – Amanda Wallace – Group Lead Volunteer.
Chairman’s Report
Our Group has now been going for over 65 years and continues to grow and offer ever more opportunities and experiences. This can only happen with the dedication of our Leadership Team and their hard work put in every week. Behind the scenes our Trustees Board oversee the finances and governance of the Group. Our Maintenance Team keep the grass cut and are involved with the upkeep of the site and equipment. At the head of our Group is Starfish, Mandy. Her drive and unlimited energy and enthusiasm continue to make the Group the success it is. I know you will join me in thanking all of our wonderful volunteers for the time they commit to our young people.
The main fundraiser this year, the Christmas Fayre, raised over £2,000 which was absolutely fantastic. We have a small Fundraising Team who as well as helping on the day, also contact local businesses for donation of raffle prizes. We always need extra help to set up the night before and help on stalls on the day. Please note this year’s Christmas Fayre will be on Saturday 22[nd] November, so if you can help, please let me or one of the Leaders know. It’s events like the Christmas Fayre which help pay towards the cost of major projects such as the store roof which had to be replaced this year. The previous one had been in place for over 45 years. This was essential to keep our kit and equipment safe and dry.
Finally, I would just like to thank you all for supporting the Group and look forward to seeing you at future events.
Kerry Budd (Coral)
Group Chairman
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What a Year It’s Been for the Squirrels!
What an incredible year the Squirrels have had—full of adventure, learning, and laughter! From earning badges and going on exciting trips to camping out and creating unforgettable memories, it’s been a year to remember. Here’s a look back at just some of the fun we’ve had.
Growing Together
On 24th April 2024, the Squirrels began their Let’s Grow badge by planting pumpkin seeds—kicking off a project that would span the seasons. By May, the seedlings were re-potted, and by late June, they were strong enough to be planted in the ground. All summer long, the Squirrels tended to their plants, watching them grow until harvest time in October. Each Squirrel proudly took home a pumpkin to carve. Witnessing the full journey from seed to harvest was truly special—and we couldn’t be prouder of their hard work and care.
Farmyard Fun
In June, the Squirrels had a fantastic day out at Longdown Activity Farm. They fed calves, goats, ducks, and even cuddled baby chicks! The bumpy tractor ride and time in the play park were definite highlights. It was a day full of smiles and new experiences.
Campfire Celebrations
July brought our much-loved group campfire night, filled with song, laughter, and celebration. We proudly presented our Squirrel of the Year award and three prestigious Acorn Awards—the highest honour a Squirrel can achieve. Huge congratulations to all our recipients!
District Summer Camp Adventures
In August, the Squirrels joined the Beavers for a fun-packed weekend at the District Summer Camp in Wilverley, New Forest. From archery and axe throwing to bread twists, badge-making, woodland hikes, circus skills, a campfire singalong, and even a silent disco—it was non-stop excitement! So many wonderful memories were made.
Honouring and Giving Back
In November, the Squirrels created a beautiful poppy wreath for Remembrance Day and laid it during the service, looking incredibly smart and respectful. We were so proud of every one of them. They also spread festive cheer by making Christmas cards for a local care home.
Festive Fun
December was full of joy with our Christingle service on the 4th, Christmas crafts, and a special visit from Santa at our Christmas party on the 18th. A magical way to end the year!
A Fresh Start
The new year brought new challenges and achievements. In January and February, the Squirrels worked on their Be Active, Feel Good, and Navigator badges. Activities included learning how to use a map and compass, designing board games, exploring healthy living, exercising, and even building dens! We also said a fond farewell and heartfelt thank you to Turtle, one of our amazing volunteers—we’re so grateful for her support.
Spring Highlights
March was full of action! Several Squirrels took part in the District Cross Country at the local sports centre, doing an incredible job—well done to everyone who took part! We also enjoyed a pizza-making night and a cozy campfire evening.
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Thank You to Our Volunteers
None of this would be possible without our fantastic team of volunteers. A huge thank you to Nemo (Izzy), Mowgli (Clarke), Coral (Kerry), and all the adults who’ve lent a hand. Special thanks to Neptune (Rex), Tech (Harry), and Wings (Jon) for their continued support—you make all the difference.
Can You Help?
We’re looking to grow our Squirrel volunteer team! If you’d like to get involved and be part of this amazing journey, we’d love to hear from you.
Here’s to another fantastic year of fun, learning, and adventure!
Amanda Wallace – Squirrel Lead Volunteer.
Beaver Scouts Annual Round-Up – A Year of Fun, Adventure & Achievement
What an incredible year it’s been for our Beavers! Since April 2024, our young adventurers have taken part in a wide range of exciting activities, all while working hard to earn badges and, for our older Beavers, striving toward their Chief Scout Bronze Awards. We’re so proud of everything they’ve achieved, and it’s all thanks to our fantastic Beaver leadership team who have delivered a fun-filled and diverse programme.
Spring Highlights
In April, we were thrilled to see one of our Beavers, Bradley, perform in this year’s Roverang show, The Imaginarium—a magical journey through a costume shop like no other, full of jungle animals, elves, superheroes, and spooky ghouls. What a fantastic achievement! The rest of the colony also had a great time watching the performance with the other sections.
Learning and Laughter
May saw the Beavers working on their World and Health & Fitness badges. They sampled food from different countries, explored global traditions, and took part in the Great Beaver Biscuit Dunk-Off—a hilarious evening that was enjoyed by all!
In June, we focused on water safety, with an evening dedicated to learning what to wear and how to stay safe near water. While we’re still searching for a permanent home for water-based activities, the Beavers did brilliantly in completing their Personal Challenge Badge.
Summer Adventures
July was all about the outdoors! We made the most of the great weather by spending every meeting outside. Beavers learned how to light fires, set up tents, and developed their campcraft skills. At our group campfire, we proudly awarded seven Chief Scout Bronze Awards and presented Oliver with the Beaver of the Year Award—a huge well done to all our achievers!
Beavers also joined the Squirrels at a fantastic joint District Camp, camping out for two nights. The weekend was packed with fun—den building, soft archery, tomahawk throwing, frisbee golf, bread twist cooking, hiking, and more. It was a wonderful camp full of laughter and new experiences.
Giving Back & Celebrating Community
In October, the Beavers planned a shopping list of essentials to support the local foodbank. The following week, they brought £1 each and headed to Tesco, purchasing items to donate—a fantastic demonstration of kindness and teamwork.
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In November, our Beavers joined the group for the Remembrance Service at St Peter’s Church. They created a wreath in advance and looked incredibly smart on the day. Their respectful behaviour made us all so proud.
Festivities and Fun
December was a busy month! We were honoured to receive the Chairman’s Challenge Cup on December 5th, having raised the most money on our table at the Christmas Fair in November—amazing effort from everyone! We’re already planning how to top it next year.
In January 2025, Beavers enjoyed our annual District Panto Trip at The Point in Eastleigh, Rapunzel was great fun and the cast delighted the crowd.
In March, we wrapped up the winter with our District Cross Country Event. A huge congratulations to all our Beavers who completed the course, and a heartfelt thank you to the parents who volunteered as marshals on the day.
Looking Ahead
We’re already busy planning an exciting programme for the next 12 months, filled with even more adventures, badges, and memories. None of this would be possible without our dedicated leadership team. A massive thank you to Pufferfish (Lisa), Flounder (Kathryn), and our amazing young leaders, Dolphin and Squid . Your time, energy, and passion make all the difference. Here’s to another brilliant year of Beavering ahead!
Yours in Scouting
Angelfish
It has been another great year with the Pack continuing to be around 25 on roster. We have welcomed new Cubs from Beavers and in turn have seen many Cubs continue their journeys moving onto Scouts. The vast majority of Cubs have progressed to Scouts with their Chief Scouts Silver Award.
We have a young pack, and it has been fun getting to know our new cubs.
Our young leader Mateusz ‘Kaa’ left us mid-year but the rest of the team is unchanged. Clarke ‘Mowgli’ continues to be a great young leader working well with cubs and adults while leading on activities and games.
Cubs made poppies for their wreath and attended Remembrance Day parade looking very smart on the day.
Cubs also learnt knots to make key rings raising money for the Group at the 13th Christmas Fete.
The Cubs have been involved in district events attending the carol service at St James Church in Shirley in December, the cross-country event in the Sports Centre, as well as the annual chess competition and cooking competition.
Cubs also attended the Archery Competition winning the event, with Starfish awarding trophies on the following evening.
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Finally, and by no means least, Cubs had a great time at the District Summer Camp at the New Forest Show ground. This was from Friday evening to the afternoon of the Bank Holiday Monday with very kind weather. The Cubs had fun staying in tents and were kept fuelled by the cooking team!
Events included archery, laser tag, petting zoo and movie night, as well as flag break. The cubs had the chance to show their moves at the silent disco! On the Monday morning cubs joined with scouts to take part in the Swaythling Challenge including wellie throwing and egg and spoon races. Cubs had the chance to meet and make friends with other cubs in the district.
Cub leaders continue to attend and represent 13th Cubs at district meetings to meet other leaders and see what events are taking place. Potential upcoming events are a Cub day trip and athletics evening as well as survival camp.
Cubs have been making use of the outdoor seating and covered area including an enjoyable evening using the pizza oven with thanks to Starfish and Neptune!
Cubs have achieved Air Activities level 1, Emergency Aid level 3 thanks to Doc, Gardening and Chef badges. We have also worked on our Book Reader, Communicator, Pioneering, Backwoods Cooking and Astronomer badges. Cubs also enjoyed two evenings of archery in preparation for camp and the competition.
Before the summer break it is hoped we will get on the water and will be doing our Paddle sports badge in preparation.
As always, my personal thanks to the Cub Team for their support and giving up their time so the Pack can enjoy all the fun of Cubs.
Thanks also to other leaders in the Group who have given up their time to support us on evenings and weekends allowing Cubs to attend events and evenings to take place.
Finally, thanks to Starfish who continues to lead the 13th supporting all of us.
We are all looking forward to the coming year and to keep having fun experiences!
Clarke, Justin, Kelly, Mali & Pete.
Mowgli, Akela, Hathi, Baloo & Shere Khan.
~~ Sea Scouts ~~
Since the last report we have had a full and varied programme of activities and challenges.
We ran our first NSRA Youth Proficiency Scheme camp (YPS) at the Scout HQ where 12 Scouts took part in a training weekend to give them more knowledge and experience in Air Rifle Shooting. They learnt lots of new skills and it was a great opportunity for our leaders to spend more time refining the Scouts shooting ability. This is something that Wings is going to lead on with more YPS camps in the future.
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All of the Scouts passed the course and achieved a staged badge at the end of the course which was decided by a Shooting competition at the end of the course. The badge they received was dependant on the score at the end of the competition.
We took a group of Scouts who attended the District Scout section Christmas Camp at Ferny Crofts where they took part in activities and had Christmas Dinner with the other Scouts in the district.
In February we completed our first Expedition Challenge badge Camp. Scouts had to plan and walk a route from Southampton Central Train Station to Ashurst on the train then walk from there to Wilverley. We stayed overnight in the cottage and then walked back to Brokenhurst and then took a train back to Southampton Central.
We had 7 Scouts attend the weekend as well as 2 Scouts from the 9[th] Southampton unit. All 9 completed their expedition challenge badge. This will most likely become a yearly occurrence to help our Scouts achieve this Challenge badge so they can complete their Gold Award.
Doc was also able to achieve his indoor Nights away permit during this weekend and will be completing his Camping permit later in the year.
The summer term saw us again having problems with our afloat nights. The continuing problems at Priory Hard meant we had to use other venues for our afloat nights.
We attended Woodmill as took part in an open canoe session which was lead by our leaders and help from the 25[th] Enterprise Explorer unit.
We also had an afloat night at the 25[th] Enterprise Explorers where we took part in a Pulling session with their two gigs (Large Rowing boats with four 5 metre oars!). The Scouts got to experience rowing a Home Counties Gig and even managed a race from Woolston side of the Itchen bridge back to Cross House Slipway.
Scouts gained time on the water and paddlesport badges for these sessions as well as parts of their pulling badge.
Our Autumn activities included night hikes, indoor pioneering, various badge work and our Christmas Fayre project of wooden reindeers.
Over the year we have worked towards various clauses of the Challenge Badges and proficiency badges for all of the Scouts. Many of the older Scouts only needed a few items ticked off to be able to finish all of their badges, and to then be able to achieve their Chief Scouts Gold award. This is something we continue to work on each term.
We had two of our Scouts take part in Roverang again this year (one was a Cub but is now a Scout). Roverang is the local Scout and Guide Gang show that has taken place in Southampton for over 50 years. This year’s show was based on an idea called “The Acorn” an AI based home helper that connects to everything electronic! The Scout section attended the Saturday show this year and really enjoyed the performance.
Our troop numbers have been up and down over the last year but in the last few months we have had an influx of Cubs increasing the number of Scouts on the books to 25 with more Cubs arriving between now and Christmas and then more next year. We have also been recruiting from the district wating list and have had a few walk in on a Monday night but the majority of our new scouts have come up from our own Cub section.
I would like to thank Wings, Tech, Torps and Starfish for their continued support with the scout section, especially when I have been pulled away due to family or work commitments.
I would also like to thank the Cub leaders and parent helpers for their support over the last year. Without you saying yes, sometimes at short notice to requests for help, our troop would have not been able to run.
I hope that in the coming year we will be able to maintain our good numbers and that we can continue to provide an active and varied programme for them to enjoy. We will continue to work towards giving each Scout the opportunity to learn new skills and to allow them to work towards their challenge, staged and proficiency badges so that they can achieve their Chief Scouts Gold Award.
Michael Coomer (Doc) – Sea Scout Leader
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CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Section A Indgpendent ExamÉner's Report Report lo the tntee81 members of 13th Southampton Sea Scout Group On accounts for the year ended 31" March 2025 Charity no (If any) 1302227 Set out on pages Ito5 l Teport to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity {°the Trust.) for the year ended 311312025. Responslbilitles and As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparab.on basls of report of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 Ilhe Acr). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charrty Commission under section 145{5}{b) of the Act. I have completed my ex8mtnalion. I confimi that no malerial matters have come lo my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause lo believe that in. any material respect.. accounting records were not kept in accordan with section 130 of the Act or the accounts do not accord the accounting reGorts Independent examiner's statement I have no nCernS and have me across no other matters in connection th the examination to which attents.on should be drwn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accotsnts to be reached. Signed: Date: P July 2025 Claire Angela Finder ACMA CGMA (retired) Relevant profossional qualification(s) or body {if any): Associate Chartered Management Accountant (Retired) Global Chartered Management Accountant {RettFedl Address: Pondarosa, Verwood Road Three Legged Cross Wimbome, Dorset BH216RN Section B Dis¢105ure Only comp5ele If the examiner needs to highlight matters of coll[n (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounls. directions and guidance for examinersl- IER October 2018 12
Glve here brief detsils of any items that the examiner wishes to dls¢lose. No Issues to disdose IER October 2018 13
13th Southampton Sea Scout Group {Clwity no. 12D2227) Receipts and paymerts account Porth8 y44r 31103120 Receipts and payments 2024125 2023124 Unreslrictod UrtrI funds Oonattofts I aues artd sin4lar locome iDn S3cli.embPrshlp subpts & athvttigs 15,49S Danaons. es and TAmdar Irwne 300 OEhBr similar itTlX)rr S¢Jb tora¢ Grar 19.r179. 20.736 SLYbtotal 5.150 Fundrajs¢ evsrt exelu oatts cttnsanas F 4WO Eas WsUI the T8st w Intemaknal everrt su stsrancg Rgfvf 319 ast Dditii 130 Sub toial 124 (Xhgr knut HQ Incrylle skn(t use tsf velyc 8252 85 50 In*sthY8nt irTrtty)p 233 409g 38,235 34.og2 rTtyW IFe2> tof3 IER October 2018 14
13th Southampton Sea Scout Group (Charlty no. 120222n Receipts and payments account To 31103nQ25 Receipts and payments 2024125 2023124 Chitabk P N¥tv)nI¢oUTh YoLfth ort andtrainin ness rates EQ ublie5 922 c(GI . Gas. WateT. 8ToadbvJ 150 153 3,630 3A44 475 77 1539 nne lTrstsraTr 3,236 47$ MarirLO. cam ands 4.226 HQ athj 1.339 11.663 Ynent 179 T42 offts 552 188 Jbtcé Ftfn&Fxlsi chMS Fa 3b.693 26,411 400 f33 Sub tatsl 633 37.328 26,811 Totalpayments 37.3 Netofre¢w(paYMtsj ash luN15 ts5t s*arend r7UK#)2 IF4bnoy20241 2of3 IER October 2018 15
13th Southampton Sea Scout Group (Charity no. 12022271 Recelpts and payments account Forth¢ 01104r2024 31103r202S Statement of assets 2nd liabilities at the end of the year 2024125 2023124 PkVllestB3rfOsBro3crJUft 29,36Q Tax1 lnVestrrni Inwe91nNuts Other invetherts- dthl Subf•&l foreha e str1 HQ I£d vthe 1, lFS insUredV Q stor& $L&S ¥3¢ 500 500 19.55t IEd v41 off.site $tst 3.596 257.096 Llbi5¢ti2s SQS ill¢u¢rEd butnoi iMx Loan- Oets gubtotal Total n¢t asEets SQ1.86F b•hal1 by Pmt Ilarne KERRY F. 8UOD IChwrTnaTrl FIEX G. BUDD (Tw8utwl .TIIW? IFthwary2024 3of3 IER October 2018 16