## **GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PCC ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025** 

**Charity registration number 1207849** 



## **The Parish of Guarlford & Madresfield with Newland** 

## **Annual Report 2025** 

## **A. Aims & Purposes** 

The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with The Reverend Gary Crellin, the Rector of the Parish of Guarlford and Madresfield with Newland, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church - pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. 

It also has the responsibility of fostering an appropriate relationship with our Church-aided schools in the parish – Madresfield Church of England Primary School. This Church School is part of the Diocese of Worcester Multi Academy Trust. The PCC has responsibility to nominate Foundation Governors for each school to ensure they reflect the Christian values and ethos. 

The Parish, through the PCC, is responsible for the church buildings at Madresfield and Guarlford - with the churchyards at both churches and additionally at Newland Village on the site of St Leonard’s Church/The Beauchamp Community. 

## **B. The Vicar’s Annual Report** 

“I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1.6). 

Portraits of church life across our Parish are varied, personal and faithful. We may be small in number, but consider the parable of the mustard seed. Yet a spirit needs a body, and fellowship needs places in which to gather. In Guarlford, and Madresfield with Newland, we know that every act of worship, every moment of care, and every expression of community depends - quietly and faithfully - on the stewardship of buildings, finances, and people. Every activity has, often unseen, a balance sheet; every church has its fabric, its history, and its ongoing needs. 

We are, if we are honest, quite fragile. The future shape, sustainability, and configuration of our churches is not fully assured. That is the reality we face. But it is not a reason for despair - it is a call. A call to change, to deepen our trust in God, and to work more intentionally together. 

If we are to flourish, we will need to do so not as two largely separate churches, but as one Parish, learning to share more, plan more, and support one another more deeply. This will require courage, generosity, and imagination. It may also require us to let go of some familiar ways of being, in order to receive what God is now giving. The invitation before us is not simply to preserve what we have, but to discern together what we are becoming. And yet despite this air of anxiety – we are still here, still worshipping, still serving, still listening. That in itself is a sign of grace. 

In this Annual Report, we give thanks for those who sustain the life of our churches through their attention to these essential foundations. Behind every figure is a story of ministry; behind every repair is a moment of worship, welcome, or service that has been made possible. This, too, is part of the ministry of Christ’s Body across the Parish. 



Thank you to everyone who contributes to the generous welcome that characterises our churches. Across the Parish, people are received not as strangers, but as fellow pilgrims - and that spirit matters deeply to me. 

We give thanks for all who share in leadership across our churches - lay and ordained - offering time, wisdom, and prayer in ways that often go unseen but are deeply felt. We especially give thanks for our Lay Ministers- Julia, Kay and Meg - and for the retired clergy who help sustain our worshipping life: Chris Sterry, Eric Knowles and Bill Rumball. Their continued ministry is a real gift to us. 

I would like to thank on everyone’s behalf the work and commitment given by our Churchwardens - they carry the churches forward, and supporting me with all my baggage and highs and lows, tirelessly and voluntarily. I am so grateful for all the time, effort and advice and guidance you so freely give - so a big thank you to Christopher, Elizabeth and David. In the same paragraph, I would like to thank Margaret, Di and Judith for the teamwork that opens up and closes down Guarlford so very well. 

We are also deeply grateful for the support given by Sally as our PCC Treasurer and Ginny as our PCC Secretary, and for all who serve on our PCC. We value too those who represent us within the Malvern and Upton Deanery - it is a real encouragement to have “home team” support me as the Area Dean in that wider setting. 

In response to wider responsibilities, I have also taken on oversight of Christ Church, Malvern. It has been good to see how that church can work alongside the Old Hills Malvern churches, particularly during Advent and Christmas, and this offers a glimpse of what deeper collaboration across our area might look like in the future. 

Jesus said: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Apart from me, you can do nothing.” (John 15.5). Worship remains the heart of our life together. Across our churches, we gather in different buildings and styles, yet with one purpose: to meet Christ in word and sacrament. We give thanks for all who enable this - those who play the organ or provide music, those who ring the bells, those who clean and decorate our churches, and those who quietly ensure that safeguarding is rightly upheld among us. We are also grateful for those who lead our Open the Book work in schools, faithfully sharing the story of faith with younger generations. 

It is always a particular joy to see our churches full when the schools join us. For many children and families, this is their church- their experience of worship and belonging. That is both a privilege and a responsibility, and something for which we should be deeply thankful. 

We also recognise with gratitude the care given to our buildings. We give thanks for the steady progress of works at Guarlford and Madresfield. These places continue to hold the prayers, memories, and hopes of our communities. 

We give heartfelt thanks to the families who have entrusted us with the most significant moments of their lives - funerals and memorials, weddings and baptisms. It is a privilege to walk alongside people at such times, and a reminder of the deep connection between our churches and the communities we serve. 

Fellowship is the oxygen of our community life, and service remains our calling. Even in our fragility, we continue to offer what we can, trusting that God will use it. 



And so we give thanks that we are still here – still “above ground,” still listening for God’s patient voice, and still, however imperfectly, joining in. The question before us is not simply how we survive, but how we will respond – together – to that voice. 

Brother Roger of Taizé reminds us: “What God asks of us, he gives.” As we look ahead, we do so as one Parish - distinct in character, yet called more deeply into shared life - trusting that the good work begun among us will indeed be brought to completion in Christ. With my good wishes and grateful thanks. 

_Rev Gary Crellin – Vicar of the Old Hills Malvern Benefice_ 

## **C. Parish Structure and Governance** 

The PCC is committed to enable as far as it can as many people as possible to engage with worship within our churches. The Vicar, working with the Ministers and Church Council maintains an overview of the worship provided across the Parish. It is the hope and ambition that our services put worship of God at the centre and likewise enables each person to put faith into practice through the developed liturgy, preaching, ambience of the church setting and décor, music, and of course through prayer. 

The PCC met on 5 gathered occasions during the year - either online as a Zoom meeting or in person - with good attendance achieved. Additionally, matters requiring action have been discharged by Correspondence (CRR M29) and then duly noted by the PCC thereafter. As at the end of the year, the Parishes of Powick, and Guarldford and Madresfield with Newland have collectively paid for 50% of the Ministry share requested. The parishes decided not to pursue the Ministerial Support Grant to cover the deficit. 

Members of the PCC are either ex-officio or elected at the Annual Parochial Church meeting in accordance with the current iteration of the Church Representation Rules. All those who attend our services/ members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC (only those on the relevant electoral roll can vote). A New electoral Roll was complied in 2025 (see Electoral Roll Reports). 

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The Parish is also registered with the Charity Commission and the first set of accounts were lodged in 2025. 

During 2025, the following served as members of the PCC: 

**Incumbent:** Revd. Gary Crellin (Chairman) 

## **Churchwardens** 

Madresfield - Christopher Bennett & Elizabeth Palmer Guarlford - David Fellows 

**Deanery Synod Representatives** - Alice Bennett & David Fellows **Treasurer** – Sally Colborne $ **PCC Secretary** - Ginny Pavey * **Members (6 places)** - Chris Lester, Wendy Lee, Marguerite Barnwell (3 vacances) 



**Note** - Guarlford has been supported by a group of volunteers, paired up to open/set up/close the church each Sunday that worship is planned. Grateful thanks to Margaret & Alan Tummy who oversee this rota. 

Licensed Lay Ministers/Reader: Julia Davis can serve on PCC as ex officio member. 

*$ Ginny Pavey & Sally Colborne are paid by the parish for their services. 

## **External Links** 

The benefice is a member of Churches Together in Malvern ecumenical partnership. See the CTiM report for details. We remain a committed supporter of the World Day of Prayer across the district. See report below: 

## **D. Church Attendance** 

Average Sunday Attendance (based on the October 2024 Census and Mission Statistics – 2025 data showed for comparison) 

|Church|2024|2025|
|---|---|---|
|Guarlford|7|7|
|Madresfield|10|8|



## **E. Electoral Roll Report** 

As at the 31[st] December 2025. There were 32 people on the Electoral Roll, of whom 8 were non-resident in the parish. The Roll was subject to rolling review this year. 

_Margaret Tummy (Electoral Roll Officer)_ 

## **F. Safeguarding Provisions** 

The PCC has complied with the requirements imposed by the Church Representation Rules under section 5A of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016. The Parish Dashboard is up to date. Due to the APCS Data breach in 2025, it has not been possible to complete all DBSs, however, a new provider has been engaged (31:8). Once I have completed the necessary training, I will be contacting the eight outstanding DBSs applicants to process their applications, this should all be completed by the end of July. 

All requests for training have been completed. A revised list of who is required to complete training, at an appropriate level, has been issued by the Diocese. 

This statement confirms that GMN PCC has complied with the requirements as set out under Section 5A of the Safeguarding and Clergy Disciplinary Measure 2016 (this is the legal duty imposed on the clergy, readers, lay workers, churchwardens and PCC to have due regard to the guidance issued by the House of Bishops on matters relating to the Safeguarding of Children and vulnerable adults). 

## **G. Worship** 

Both churches are following a fortnightly pattern of worship - predominantly Common Worship based “Living Communion” with the Book of Common Prayer services featuring too 



at Guarlford. Café Church or the possibility of joining with Christ Church Malvern was established for 5th Sundays towards the end of 2025. 

Special services for Remembrance Sunday and All Souls Sunday are a feature of our community engagement and continue to be very well supported. 

Madresfield school attends church for seasonal and termly services to mark Christmas, Easter, Harvest and the end of the school year, in particular. Our main contact with schools are with these church services are via our ALMs and Open the Book teams - see their reports for more detail. 

Sadly, yet again, no one has come forward to be confirmed. 

## **H. Occasional Offices 2025** 

Baptism - 3 Wedding - 4 Funeral* - 8 

*including burial of ashes and services at crematoria (Worcester City and The Vale, Fladbury, mainly). Note funeral ministry has been affected by the expansion of Direct Cremation options. Also, the refurbishment of Worcester City Crematorium has impacted by delays in providing funeral ministry in a more timely and pastoral manner. 

The church is supported by a small number of sessional organists that support our worship on Sundays, and play for Funerals and Weddings as required. We are grateful for the services of Sally Linsey, Mary Robertson, Lyndall Brown. In 2025, we bade farewell to Charles Hinds and Carleton Tarr from our organist rota. Their service to our churches was both gracious and helpful. 

## **I. Communication** 

We all have a responsibility of sharing God’s word and what are doing locally, too. The parish features regularly in The Grapevine for villages (online only). An online presence continues with our website (www.oldhillsmalvern.co.uk) and Facebook. The Old Hills Malvern Headlines fortnightly newssheet continues to be the mainstay of our communication. The website did not migrate to the Hubb webmaster (as recommended by the Diocese) due to a lack of capacity to review and implement this charge, therefore the benefice is still paying for its web presence. 

## **J. Churchwardens Reports** 

## **Madresfield** 

Only essential works have been undertaken in the last year, where some tiles have been replaced. Some minor tree works have also been undertaken and a replacement tree was planted to compensated for a diseased tree’s removal. The church has received a small Design work continues in the internal option for a kitchenette/WC facility with Herlig Architects leading the work now. The church is outstanding its quinquennial inspection but the PCC did approve the appointment of Osbornes architects to undertake this necessary inspection, at St Mary’s Guarlford. 



The church provided support to the family of a young man who sadly died after a farming accident. The church was full with over 350 people and featured as part of the cortege formed by many tractors. 

The church benefits from two Holy Communion services each month, one presided by Fr Chris 

Sterry. The church also received prearranged visits both from Madresfield Cof E Primary School and the MEYC Nursery - a pre-schooler’s service is still a lovely part of our ministry to the village’s children and grateful thanks are made to Rosemary McCulloch who designs and takes this service each month. 

## _Christopher Bennett - Churchwarden_ 

## **Guarlford** 

The church maintains its faithful presence in the village and although celebrations for its 180th year anniversary were somewhat muted, we did indeed mark the celebration with when a new bell was purchased from a local antique shop that was cast in the same year of the consecration of the church. Albeit mounted on a ringing frame, it was rung out to mark Christmas! 

The church continues to worship with two services of Holy Communion each month - one taking the form of a BCP Communion with hymns and this is presided by Rev Canon Eric Knowles. We also bade farewell to our organists Charles Hines & Carlton Tarr for differing reasons and have welcomed Dr David Cooper and a number of visiting organists to support our worship. 

The church finally reached a without prejudice settlement of the tree claim arising from alleged subsidence to a property adjacent to the church. The cedar tree and its impact on the retaining wall remains a considerable risk and further work to resubmit a further planning application (after the year of council liability ends) to the local planning authority. 

Boiler and some roofing issue were attended to and the quinquennial inspection will be progressed in 2026. Our Offer for Glebe land was accepted by Diocese. Solicitors have been instructed but matters relating are on hold awaiting an Appeal Decision on prospective development on land next to Rectory Lane which forms part of the land parcel being considered by the GMN PCC. 

The Christmas season brought this reporting year to a close with a further excellent display of Nativities (with thanks to Judith Knott, Rosemary McCulloch, Di Smith and the Barnwells for making the display a “must see” for so many people. We also had a wonderful evening of Carols with Brass, accompanied by the Chase Brass Band with our “new” bell sounding for the first time, which was very well received. Although we did not visit “The Guarlford Lights, nor used the hall for refreshments, refreshments were served in the church which were well received. 

_David Fellows - Churchwarden_ 



## **K. Children, Youth and Families 2025** 

With a reduction in ALMs to support this ministry, activities continue to deliver support to our school via dedicated ISingPop based PopBox assemblies and in school activities as requested. Madresfield school visits its church at least termly with Rev Gary attending as required or as invited. 

## **L. Churches Together in Malvern** 

Reps from the Malvern churches regularly meet to discuss joint events, showing our love and 

fellowship, support and concern for the people in our churches and in the wider community. Joint services have included Carol Singing in Church Street by the Priory in December; a vigil to mark Hiroshima Day at the Friends Meeting House; a Good Friday Walk of Witness where churches meet at the Priory; a Sunrise service on the Malvern Hills on Easter Sunday; in March a World Day of Prayer held in a different church each year (plus our own service at St James’, Callow End). This year Christian Unity Week’s joint service was held at Holy Trinity with a “pop up” choir, and a speaker from the Methodist Circuit. In the summer a picnic and a chance to swim was held at Elim College, West Malvern, courtesy of CTM Chair Geoff Richardson. 

Lyttelton Well has been refurbished with a giant info board facing Church Street; the book shop and cafe reopened; and counselling and debt advice are available. On Shrove Tuesday a Pancake Party was held at Lyttelton Well; in the Autumn a Hot Dog supper and town quiz for families was held too. 

CTM continues to provide volunteers from across the churches for Lifepath held in the Priory in June, a week of activities and worship for primary aged children. There are teams across the Malvern churches that take Open the Book into primary schools, including our own parishes. The Food Bank, still needed in Malvern, draws volunteers from across Malvern and beyond. Distribution points are at the warehouse in Spring Lane, the Lyttelton Well and Sunshine Centre. The supermarkets, churches and schools donate food on a regular basis. 

A monthly newsletter of events is produced by CTM and is on view in the churches. 

## **M. Charitable Giving** 

Our link with the Malvern Hills Foodbank continues but donations are much lower than in previous years. In-Church collections have all but stopped for the Foodbank as most congregational members donate via their weekly shop instead. A small number of donors still drop food parcels into the Vicarage which are then taken to the Foodbank or Pickersleigh Community Larder Scheme. The Christmas Shoebox Collection for Teams4U (www.teams4u.com) collected 91 filled shoeboxes which journeyed with 14,000 others into The Ukraine and Central Europe. 

## **N. Our Deanery and Diocese** 

We are a constituent of the Upton and Malvern Deanery with four places on Synod Rev Gary remains as the Area Dean. Our deanery synod representatives are Alice Bennett and David Fellows. A new three-year term commencing in July 2026 so new representatives, or re-elections od existing will be required. 



_The following is a report on the work of the Deanery & Diocesan Synods was kindly drafted for each PCC by Robin La Fontaine (Deanery Synod Representative from Great Malvern Priory)._ 

## **Malvern & Upton Deanery Synod** 

There has been only Two meetings this past year but Deanery activities were supplemented with a focus day for Children Youth and Families and a Deanery Social/Prayer walk. In February 2025, an online meeting considered the Anna Chaplaincy movement with a speaker from the Bible Reader Fellowship that provides Anna Chaplaincy training and parish support to care homes and older members. From this, the Deanery has developed a modest support programme for care home across Malvern with each church having responsibility for liaison and support. With one Anna Chaplain in post with another in training and supported ably by some volunteers, we are beginning a long journey to resource this ministry, but at least we made a start. 

In April, a gathering of Children, Youth and Family (CYF) workers was convened in the Upton Church Rooms. The event was chaired by the Area Dean and after an inspiring introductory talk from the Diocesan CYF Lead, Simon Hill, CYF workers (resourced or voluntary) were tasked to understand what works well in this ministry ad what can be shared. After a Prayer Walk and shared Picnic, hosted by Rev Canon Julie James and the Welland PCC at Welland’s community orchard in June 2025, the next Synod was held in November 2025 at St Mary’s Church Hanley Castle, who have recently achieved their Eco Gold award. It was a cold day, 

the church was cold but the new infrared heaters in the chapel area were surprisingly effective. We had a Q&A session about the Eco Gold award. Rev’d Sue Adeney described her journey to ordination, shaped by gradual “nudges” and a growing awareness of social responsibility in faith. She also highlighted the importance of Deanery Synod, particularly in electing representatives to General Synod this coming year. 

Looking ahead to 2026, proposals aim to strengthen mission and support across the Deanery. These include funding a school chaplaincy post, sharing ministry resources between churches, and creating central administrative roles to support clergy and communication. Environmental responsibility was another focus, with encouragement for all churches to achieve at least a Bronze Eco-Church Award by 2027, stressing culture change over box-ticking. Finally, updates were given on synod membership reviews and upcoming leadership changes, including the need to appoint a new Lay Chair and Secretary. 

## **O. Financial Review** 

Unrestricted incoming resources for the year amounted to £ 28,118 (2024: £ 55,576) and unrestricted outgoing resources amounted to £41,697 (2024: £ 41,137), this includes the contribution to ministry share of £8,000. 

Restricted incoming resources for the year amounted to £19 (2024: £108). 

The main sources of funding are from contributions from member of the two churches in the parish, through regular giving and cash collections at services. The current annual income 

does not cover the expenditure which means that reserves are being reduced each year. 



The PCC’s strategy is to maintain an unrestricted reserve equivalent to approximately 6 months’ expenditure. The PCC’s general reserves, excluding investments, were £176,507 at 31 December 2025 (2024: £161,016), of which £30,853 (2023: £29,070) were designated for specific purposes. The current reserves balance exceeds the reserves policy, but the PCC are currently reviewing the state of the churches in the parish and look to designate funds towards the maintenance and development of the churches at both Guarlford and Madresfield. 

Restricted reserves were £5,826 at 31 December 2025 (2024: £5,947), bringing total reserves to £182,333 (2024: £196,032). 

## **P. ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION** 

The Churches at Madresfield and Guarlford are located centrally in each village. The Newland Churchyard sits adjacent to the Beauchamp Community, an extra parochial place. The benefice is part of the Malvern and Upton Deanery in the Diocese of Worcester, within the Church of England. 

The correspondence address is: The Vicarage, 31 The Greenway, Powick, Worcester WR2 4RZ. 

The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2024). GMN is registered with the Charities Commission. The PCC bank with branches of Lloyds Bank Plc in Malvern. 

The PCC has met online or in person four times in the year in question. All meetings, despite the number of vacancies, remained quorate to permit business to be executed. On occasions, questions or issues where covered via Meetings via correspondence provisions – in such cases, business was then onward recorded at the next formal PCC. 

## **Q. Approval Process** 

This annual report was approved by the PCC in the spring meeting held in April 2026 and signed on their behalf by Revd. Gary Crellin (PCC Chairman) on onward tabling at the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting) 


………………………………………………………. 

The Reverend Gary Crellin 

Incumbent and PCC Chair of the Parish of Powick and The Parish of Guarlford and Madresfield with Newland 

29[th] April 2026 



## **GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[ST] DECEMBER 2025 



## **GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2025** 

|**Income and endowments from:**<br>Donations and legacies<br>Income from charitable activities<br>Other trading activities<br>Investments<br>**Total income**<br>**Expenditure on:**<br>Raising funds<br>Expenditure on charitable activities<br>**Total expenditure**<br>**Net income / (expenditure) resources**<br>**before transfer**<br>**Transfers**<br>Gross transfers between funds - in<br>Gross transfers between funds - out<br>**Other recognized gains / losses**<br>Gains / losses on investment assets<br>**Net movement in funds**<br>**Total funds brought forward**<br>**Total funds carried forward**<br>**Represented by**<br>**Unrestricted**<br>General fund<br>**Designated**<br>School House<br>Newland Churchyard<br>**Restricted**<br>Eric Jones Legacy<br>Miss A L Wethered Legacy<br>**Total Funds**|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**Designated**<br>**funds**<br>**Restricted**<br>**funds**<br>**Total Funds**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>13,380<br>-<br>-          13,380<br>6,391<br>4,921<br>-          11,312<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>2,611              815                19           3,445<br>**22,382**<br>**5,736**<br>**19**<br>**28,137**<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>37,744           3,953<br>-           41,697<br>**37,744**<br>**3,953**<br>**-          41,697**<br>**-       15,362           1,783                19 -       13,560**<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-                   -   -            140 -            140<br>**-       15,362**<br>**1,783 -            121 -       13,700**<br>**161,016**<br>**29,070**<br>**5,947**<br>**196,033**<br>**£   145,654  £     30,853  £       5,826  £   182,333**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>145,654<br>145,654<br>28,084<br>28,084<br>2,769<br>2,769<br>2,451<br>2,451<br>3,375<br>3,375<br>-<br>**145,654**<br>**£**<br>**30,853**<br>**£**<br>**5,826**<br>**£**<br>**182,333**<br>**£**|**31/12/2024**<br>**Prior year**<br>**Total Funds**<br>**£**<br>36,979<br>13,007<br>-<br>5,620<br>**55,606**<br>-<br>41,137<br>**41,137**<br>**14,469**<br>-<br>-<br>**-**<br>79<br>**14,548**<br>**181,485**<br>**£ 196,033**<br>**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br>161,016<br>24,278<br>4,792<br>2,432<br>3,515<br>-<br>**196,033**<br>**£**|
|---|---|---|
||||



Page 1 



## **GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **Balance sheet as at 31[st] December 2025** 

|**Fixed assets**<br>Investments (Note 5)<br>**Current assets**<br>Debtors (Note 6)<br>Cash at bank and in hand<br>**Liabilities**<br>Creditors: Amounts falling due in one year (Note 7)<br>**Net current assets less current liabilities**<br>**Total assets less current liabilities**<br>**Total net assets less liabilities**<br>**Represented by (Note 6)**<br>**Unrestricted**<br>General fund<br>**Designated**<br>School House<br>Newland Churchyard<br>**Restricted**<br>Eric Jones Legacy<br>Miss E L Wethered Legacy<br>**Funds of the church**|**£**<br>**£**<br>3,375<br>3,375<br>2,372<br>183,846<br>186,218<br>7,260<br>7,260<br>178,958<br>182,333<br>£<br>**182,333**<br>**£**<br>145,654<br>28,084<br>2,769<br>2,451<br>3,375<br>**182,333**<br>**£**<br>**Total funds**<br>**31/12/2025**|**£**<br>**£**<br>3,515<br>3,515<br>2,950<br>196,553<br>199,503<br>6,985<br>6,985<br>192,518<br>196,033<br>£<br>**196,033**<br>**£**<br>161,016<br>24,278<br>4,792<br>2,432<br>3,515<br>**Prior year funds**<br>**31/12/2024**|**£**<br>**£**<br>3,515<br>3,515<br>2,950<br>196,553<br>199,503<br>6,985<br>6,985<br>192,518<br>196,033<br>£<br>**196,033**<br>**£**<br>161,016<br>24,278<br>4,792<br>2,432<br>3,515<br>**Prior year funds**<br>**31/12/2024**|
|---|---|---|---|
||||**196,033**<br>**£**|
|||||



Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 29th April 2026 and signed on its behalf by: 

.........................................................................(Chairman) .........................................................................(Member) .......................................................................... Sally Colbourne, Treasurer 

## **The notes on pages 5 to 11 form part of these Financial Statements.** 

Page 2 



## **GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT For the year ended 31 December 2025** 

## **1. Accounting Policies** 

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and applicable accounting standards in the United Kingdom, including Financial Reporting Standards 102(FRS102) and the Statement of Recommended Practice:Accounting and Reporting by Charities (Charities SORP (FRS 102) The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets which are measured at fair value. The financial statements are prepared on the accruals basis. 

## **Funds** 

General funds represent the funds of the PCC which are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application to the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted. 

The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body nor those which are informal gatherings of church members. 

## **Incoming Resources** 

## Voluntary income and capital sources. 

Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognised only when received. Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the income to which it relates is received. 

Outright grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement and the amount due. Conditional grants are accounted for as soon as the condition is fulfilled. 

Funds raised by fetes and similar events are accounted for gross. 

Income from investments 

Dividends and interest are accounted for when received. 

## Gains and losses on investments 

Realised gains and losses are recognised when investments are sold. Unrealised gains or losses are accounted for on revaluation of investments at 31 December. 

## Reserves 

The PCC’s reserves policy for unrestricted funds is to hold usable reserves of £11,000 to cover 3 months running costs together with “working capital” to be able to make necessary payments each month and for the repair or replacement of items of essential equipment.  The usable reserves at 31.12.2025 are £176,507 (2024 £190,086). 

## **Resources Used** 

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. 

The Ministry Share is normally accounted for when payable. Since 2000 the PCC has been unable to pay in full the share.The sum allocated to the Old Hills Benefice for 2025 is £78,319 (2024 £77,946). Powick has paid £27,924 on this and Guarlford and Madresfield with Newland PCC £8,000 which means that only 46% of the sum requested will be paid. 

## **Fixed Assets** 

## Consecrated land and buildings and movable church furnishings. 

Consecrated and beneficed property is excluded from the accounts by s.10(2) (a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011. Moveable church furnishings held by the churchwardens on special trust for the PCC which require a faculty for disposal, are considered to be inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church’s Inventory. Insufficient cost information is available for such property and therefore it is not capitalised in the accounts. 

## Other fixtures, fittings and office equipment. 

Equipment used within the church premises with a purchase price of £1000 or more is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the likely working life of the asset. Individual items which cost less than £1000 are written off at the time of acquisition. 

Page 3 



**GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT For the year ended 31 December 2025** 

## **1. Accounting Policies (cont.)** 

## Investments 

The investments in funds held by the Diocese as custodian trustee on behalf of the PCC are included in the PCC’s Financial Statement. 

## Current Assets 

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rents or other income are shown as debtors less provision for amounts that may prove uncollectable. Short term deposits are fixed term deposits at the bank. Cash at bank is either with the bank or in CBF Church of England Funds. 

## **2. Analysis of income and expenditure** 

## **Donations and legacies** 

|Loose plate collections<br>Planned giving<br>Gift Aid Tax Recovered<br>Donations appeals etc.<br>Legacies<br>Other funds generated<br>Total<br>**Income from charitable activities**<br>Fees for weddings and funerals<br>Fundraising<br>Property Income<br>Total<br>**Other trading activities**<br>Income<br>**Investments**<br>Dividends and interest<br>Revaluations<br>Total<br>**INCOME TOTAL**|**Unrestricted**<br>**Designated**<br>**Restricted**<br>**This Year**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>1,724<br>-<br>-           1,724<br>8,089<br>-<br>-           8,089<br>2,717<br>-<br>-           2,717<br>850<br>-<br>-              850<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>£    13,380<br>£           -    £           -    £    13,380<br>**Unrestricted**<br>**Designated**<br>**Restricted**<br>**This Year**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>2,571<br>-<br>-           2,571<br>3,820<br>-<br>-           3,820<br>-           4,921<br>-           4,921<br>£6,391<br>£4,921<br>£           -    £    11,312<br>**Unrestricted**<br>**Designated**<br>**Restricted**<br>**This Year**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>£           -    £           -    £           -    £           -<br>**Unrestricted**<br>**Designated**<br>**Restricted**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>2,611            815              19         3,445<br>-<br>-   -          140 -          140<br>£2,611<br>£815<br>-£121<br>£3,305<br>£22,382<br>£5,736<br>-£121<br>£27,997|**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br>2,550<br>7,893<br>2,305<br>330<br> <br>23,901<br> <br>-<br>£    36,979<br>**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br>5,138<br>3,333<br>4,536<br>13,007<br>**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br> <br>-<br> <br>-<br>**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br>5,620<br>79<br>£5,699<br>£55,685|
|---|---|---|



Page 4 



**GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT For the year ended 31 December 2025** 

## **2. Analysis of income and expenditure (Cont.)** 

|**Expenditure on charitable activities**<br>Fees payable to WDBF<br>Secular charities<br>Ministry parish share etc.<br>Wages salaries and honoraria<br>Working expenses of incumbent<br>Church running - insurance<br>Church maintenance<br>Upkeep of services<br>Upkeep of churchyard<br>Administration<br>Governance<br>Madresfield project costs<br>Guarlford bell<br>Miscellaneous<br>Church running - heating and lighting<br>Property Maintenance<br>Total<br>**EXPENDITURE TOTAL**|**Unrestricted**<br>**Designated**<br>**Restricted**<br>**This Year**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>8,000<br>-<br>-<br>8,000<br>761<br>-<br>-<br>761<br>1,446<br>-<br>-<br>1,446<br>11,301<br>-<br>-<br>11,301<br>4,236<br>-<br>-<br>4,236<br>87<br>-<br>-<br>87<br>2,445<br>2,600<br>5,045<br>2,666<br>-<br>-<br>2,666<br>570<br>-<br>-<br>570<br>2,124<br>-<br>-<br>2,124<br>750<br>-<br>-<br>750<br>428<br>-<br>-<br>428<br>2,930<br>-<br>-<br>2,930<br>-<br>1,353<br>-<br>1,353<br>£    37,744  £      3,953<br>£            -    £    41,697<br>£    37,744  £      3,953<br>£            -    £    41,697|**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br>-<br>-<br>10,500<br>788<br>1,946<br>10,910<br>3,935<br>765<br>3,603<br>1,404<br>1,300<br>-<br>-<br>338<br>4,666<br>982<br>£    41,137<br>£    41,137|
|---|---|---|
||||



## **3a) Employee Costs** 

The PCC had no employees. Organ playing has been undertaken by a number of locum organists during the 2025 and 2024 financial years. 

## **3(b) Payments to Trustees** 

In 2025, the following sums were paid to PCC members. £1,446 (2024 £1,946) was paid to Rev Gary Crellin in respect of ministry expenses for the benefice.  Other PCC members received re-imbursement of routine expenses incurred on behalf of the PCC. 

## **4 Revaluation of investments** 

|**valuation of investments**<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Gain on investment<br>Loss on investment|**2025**<br>**£**<br>-<br>£<br>140<br>-£<br>-£         140|**2024**<br>**£**<br>79<br>-<br>£<br>£           79|
|---|---|---|



Page 5 



**GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT For the year ended 31 December 2025** 

## **5. Fixed Assets Investments** 

|Cost of valuation<br>At 1 January 2025<br>Valuation changes<br>**At 31 December 2025**<br>Carrying amount<br>At 31 December 2025<br>At 31 December 2024|£<br>3,515<br>-140<br>**3,375**<br>3,375<br>3,515|
|---|---|




Miss EL Wethered legacy Shares in CBF's investment Fund: Value at 31st December 2025 £3,375 (2024 £3,515) 

## **6. Debtors:amounts falling due within one year** 

|**btors:amounts falling due within one year**<br>Trade debtors<br>**editors:amounts falling due within one year**<br>Trade creditors<br>Accruals and deferred income|**2025**<br>**£**<br>2,372<br>**2025**<br>**£**<br>6,718<br>542<br>7,260|**2024**<br>**£**<br>2,950<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>5,756<br>1,229<br>6,985|
|---|---|---|



## **7. Creditors:amounts falling due within one year** 

## **8. Designated Funds** 

These are funds which have been designated for specfic purposes 

|School House<br>Newlands Churchyard<br>School House<br>Newlands Churchyard|At 01.01.25<br>Incoming<br>resources<br>Resources<br>expended<br>At 31.12.25<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>24,278<br>5,160<br>-1,353<br>28,085<br>4,792<br>576<br>-2,600<br>2,768<br>29,070<br>5,736<br>-3,953<br>30,853<br>At 01.01.24<br>Incoming<br>resources<br>Resources<br>expended<br>At 31.12.24<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>20,043<br>5,217<br>-982<br>24,278<br>4,129<br>663<br>-<br>4,792<br>24,172<br>5,880<br>-982<br>29,070|
|---|---|



School House -these funds have been designated for the purpose of maintenance of the Old School House in order to maintain living standards for the occupant and to refurbish the property when it comes to the end of its tennancy period. 

Newlands Churchyard - these funds have been designated for the ongoing maintenance of the Newland Church Yard. 

Page 6 



**GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT For the year ended 31 December 2025** 

## **9. Restricted funds** 

The restricted finds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and gains held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
At 01.01.25 Incoming  Resources  At 31.12.25<br>resources expended<br>£ £ £ £<br>Eric Jones legacy 2,432 19               -    2,451<br>Miss EL Wethered Legacy 3,515 -140               -    3,375<br>5,947 -121                -    5,826<br>At 01.01.24 Incoming  Resources  At 31.12.24<br>resources expended<br>£ £ £ £<br>Eric Jones legacy 2,403 29               -    2,432<br>Miss EL Wethered Legacy 3,436               -    79 3,515<br>5,839 29 79 5,947<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Eric Jones Legacy -the legacy is restricted and can only be applied towards the upkeep of Guarlford Churchyard. The fund are retained in a separate bank account 

Wethered Legacy - comprise of a legacy from A L Wethered and is restricted to be applied for the maintenance of the Newland Churchyard.  The investments representing these funds are held by the Diocese as custodian trustee on behalf of the PCC and the income is paid to the PCC but may only be used for the purposes indicated. 

|**10. Analysis of net assets between funds**<br>Fund balances at 31 December 2025 are<br>represented by:<br>Investments<br>Net current assets|**Unrestricted**<br>**Designated**<br>**Restricted**<br>**This Year**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>-                 -<br>3,374<br>3,374<br>145,654<br>30,853<br>2,452<br>178,959<br>145,654<br>30,853<br>5,826<br>182,333|**31/12/2024**<br>**£**<br>3,515<br>192,518<br>196,033|
|---|---|---|



Page 7 




## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF GUARLFORD AND MADRESFIELD WITH NEWLAND PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025** 

I report to the charity Trustees (the ‘PCC Members’) on my examination of the Statement of Financial Activities, Balance Sheet and Trustees’ Report, together referred to as ‘the accounts’, of the charity (the ‘PCC’) for the year ended 31 December 2025. 

## **Respective Responsibilities of PCC Members and Examiner** 

The PCC Members of Guarlford and Madresfield with Newland Parochial Church Council are responsible for the preparation of the accounts for the period ended 31 December 2025 in accordance with the Charities Act 2022. 

As the PCC Members have opted to prepare receipts and payments accounts, I have been appointed as an independent examiner to review these accounts under the terms of Charities Act 2022. My responsibility is to: 

- Examine the accounts and consider whether they are consistent with the records kept by the PCC. 

- Review whether the accounts comply with the applicable regulations. 

- Assess whether any matters have come to my attention that require further explanation or clarification. 

## **Basis of Independent Examiner’s Statement** 

I have carried out my examination in accordance with the guidance provided by the Charity Commission for England and Wales. My examination included a review of the accounting records maintained by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also involved considering any unusual items or disclosures within the accounts. 

The nature of an independent examination is substantially less detailed than a full audit. Consequently, I do not express an audit opinion on whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ but instead provide an independent report on whether any material issues have come to my attention. 

## **Independent Examiner’s Statement** 

In the course of my examination, no matters have come to my attention that give me cause to believe that: 

1. Proper accounting records have not been kept in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2022. 

2. The accounts do not agree with the underlying records. 

3. There are material concerns that should be drawn to the attention of the PCC Members or the Charity Commission. 

I confirm that, in my opinion, the accounts have been prepared in accordance with the applicable requirements and provide an accurate reflection of the receipts and payments made during the period. 





**Shaun Mooney** FCCA, DChA, BA(Hons) 

For and on behalf of **The M & C Partnership Limited** 

10 Wilson Gardens Malvern Worcestershire WR14 3FE 

**Date:** 8[th] April 2026