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2023-08-31-accounts

Charity Registration No. 207478

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Custodian holding trustees Mr D Hearn Mrs J Ryan Ms C Sawyer

Trustees Dr R Amos (Appointed 13 November 2021)
Mrs D Clement (Appointed 14 November 2020)
Mr P Cook (Appointed 14 November 2020,
Resigned 1 March 2023))
Mrs G Devries (Appointed 16 November 2019)
Mr T Freeth (Appointed 13 November 2021)
Professor J W Galloway (Appointed 12 November 2011 - Officer)
Mr D Haselgrove (Appointed 27 April 2019 - Officer)
Mr P Liverman (Appointed 13 November 2021)
Mr D Morris (Appointed 11 November 2017)
Mr M Rogerson (Appointed 12 November 2016 -
Officer)
Mrs C Sawyer (Appointed 16 November 2019,
Resigned 11 November 2022))
Mr B Worsley (Appointed 11 November 2022)
Co-opted Trustee Mr C Bailes (March 2023)
President Mr D Morris
Treasurer Professor J W Galloway
Director Mr A M Bryan (Appointed 20/01/2020)
Charity number 207478
Principal address AGS Centre
Avon Bank
Pershore
Worcestershire
WR10 3JP
Auditor Kendall Wadley LLP
Merevale House
27 Sansome Walk
Worcester
WR1 1NU
Bankers HSBC
PO Box 4
6 Broad Street
Worcester
WR1 2EJ

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 6
Statement of trustees' responsibilities 7
Independent auditor's report 8 - 10
Consolidated statement of financial activities 11 - 12
Consolidated balance sheet 13
Charity statement of financial activities 14 - 15
Charity balance sheet 16
Consolidated statement of cash flows 17
Notes to the accounts 18 - 38

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the Society's Constitution, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)".

Objectives and activities

The objects are set out in Clause 3 of the Constitution, namely to:

Educate the public and its members about the cultivation and conservation of alpine plants. This will include:

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

Activities that provide a Public Benefit

In 2018 the Society awarded a grant of £30,000 for a conservation project concerned with montane flora in the English Lake District. The aim of the project which is still running is to preserve and rejuvenate existing habitat within a specific area as well as re-colonization of the area with native plants. Work has continued throughout this year and the site is producing good results. Society members are actively involved in the propagation and re-planting of native species. Further work will include creation of pathways and information boards for visitors. All such activities are aimed at raising awareness of alpine plants and highlighting the importance of conservation of habitats and threatened plant populations.

The charity hold up to 22 alpine plant shows at venues around the UK and one in Ireland. These shows are open to the public and in addition to a large competitive display of alpine plants some shows also feature practical demonstrations and lectures. The aim is to raise public awareness of alpine garden plants and to provide free information on how to cultivate these plants. A number of other smaller demonstrations and talks were to be given at venues around the UK. During the pandemic the Society experienced a big loss of social engagement between members, however, this year the Society ran 20 National shows which were managed by local groups around the country.

The Society produces a set of 12 'Easy Leaflets' with information on alpine plants and how to grow them. These are freely available at our public events and are also distributed through local groups and some alpine nurseries.

The now updated and improved Society website is a repository for approximately 54,000 plant images and also contains information on plants at shows, as well as a series of gardening diaries/blogs. This information is openly accessible, together with access to the on-line 'Encyclopaedia of Alpines'. The Society’s ‘on-line flower show’ initiative continues to be a popular feature on our website and again is open to public viewing as is our Photographic competition.

AGS Expeditions Limited runs a number of tours to different locations around the world. Each tour is accompanied by an expert botanist to help identify plants. These tours have an educational aspect, and a number of subsidised places/travel grants are made available to those working in horticulture/trainees/ students etc., to help them improve their knowledge of alpine plants and habitats. Our tours are open to the public, but they are required to become a member of the Society before joining a trip. The number of tours operated each year varies depending on demand and destinations offered.

A.G.S. Publications Limited owed the Society £34,752 at 31 August 2023, due to its performance and ongoing running costs the Charity has made a decision to close A.G.S. Publications Limited in January 2024. The Charity will, however, continue to publish books with a partner, and will also continue to retail books through the website and at shows.

Redevelopment of the Society’s garden at Pershore is on-going, in 2022 work was completed on the interior construction and the planting of raised beds. A water collection tank was installed to collect run-off water from the alpine house and adjacent office buildings. This is for the irrigation of the gardens, thereby helping to reduce the demand on water supplies. The new alpine house will enhance the visitor experience by enabling a wider display of different types of alpine plants. The garden offers free access to visitors and is also used as a teaching resource for horticultural students.

The Society runs educational one-day events and conferences that are open to the public. These events include a weekend conference, activity weekend, Snowdrop Day and Bulb Day featuring a variety of guest speakers, both from home and overseas.

The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the Society should undertake and ensuring that it provides benefit to the public.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Achievements and performance

The charity has continued to produce its highly respected quarterly Journal and the Editor is constantly seeking new articles with a broad appeal that will be of interest to all members, both beginners and those with more in-depth plant knowledge. The Board believes that the Journal should aim to be accessible but at the same time retain its reputation as a prestigious publication.

The Society’s seed exchange scheme, one of the largest of its type in the world has continued to distribute seed to a large proportion of the membership. The combination of new EU rules on seed importation, plus uncertainties concerning Brexit added to the difficulties we confronted in trying to run an international seed exchange. These factors led us to the decision that we could only offer a seed exchange to UK members.

The Society website now offers the facility for members to join and renew their membership on-line, make conference bookings and to purchase specialist books. Work has continued on the new website incorporating a total re-design, a new membership database, plus enhanced payment facilities and other new features. The Trustee Board see this as an important step to helping safeguard the future of the Society. The re-design of the site has been informed by appropriate qualitative and quantitative research, both with members and non- members interested in plants and gardening. Work on this project has been funded from the Society’s investments and includes funds to expand and update plant information contained in the on-line Encyclopaedia of Alpines. This major resource is freely available to members and the general public. Expenditure on such developmental projects may be spread across more than one financial year.

The funding of a initiative to support a full-time horticultural training placement at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh continued during the year, this offers someone a unique opportunity to further their knowledge and pursue a horticultural career working with alpine plants.

There are a number of reasons for falling memberships, the increasingly older age profile of the existing membership and the global pandemic greatly impacted on the Society. Redevelopment of the society website is regarded by the Trustee Board as a vital initiative to help attract new members. In this respect the Society has begun to implement a social media strategy and appointed a dedicated Social Media Manager who also has responsibility for developing and re-writing content on our new website. We are now very engaged on all social media channels, we hold virtual lectures for our members, encourage local groups to hold virtual meetings and have dedicated members areas on Facebook. These incentives are proving very helpful in bringing members together and bring new members to the Society.

During the year the Charity has benefited from the work and advice of many volunteers, without whom the Charity could not meet its charitable objectives. The value of the work is unquantifiable and any attempt to estimate the numbers involved can only be an approximation. The Trustee Board wishes to recognise this valuable contribution and expresses their grateful thanks to all the volunteers who have given their time to assist the Charity in its various activities during the previous twelve months.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Financial review

During the year the charitable group had incoming resources totalling £411,493 (2022 £261,734), of which £113,983 (2022 £120,563) was from membership subscriptions.

Total resources expended for the year (including an impiarment of trophy values of £54,258) were £608,870 (2022 £447,143), giving net outgoing (2022 - outgoing) resources (before investment losses (2022 - losses)) of £197,377 (2022 £185,409).

There are realised gains of £1,430 (2021 - losses £2,601) and unrealised losses of £120,836 (2022 – losses £124,332) arising on the investment assets resulting in a decrease in funds of £316,783 (2022 £312,342 decrease), leaving total reserves at £1,990,327.

Of the total funds £191,090 (2022 - £208,177) is restricted in nature, details are provided in the notes to the financial statements, a further £308,810 (2022 - £331,686) has been designated by the trustees for specific purposes, again details are provided in the notes to the financial statements.

This leaves, after allowing for intangible fixed assets and for funds that could only be realised upon the sale of tangible fixed assets £1,228,360 (2022 - £1,427,226) as free reserves for the purpose of undertaking the charitable activities.

It is the policy of the Society that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use (ie general funds) should be maintained at a level equivalent to between six and twelve month’s expenditure. The trustees consider that reserves at this level will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the Society’s current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. This level of reserves has been maintained throughout the year, the excess funds are used to advance the cultivation and conservation of alpine plants as set out in the objectives of the charity.

The committee have power, from time to time, after taking advice from a Member of the London Stock Exchange, to direct the holding trustees concerned to invest the funds of the Society or any part thereof in any way which, in its absolute discretion, thinks fit, in all respects as if it were a sole Beneficial Owner of such funds notwithstanding that such investments may not be investments authorised by law for the investment of funds, and the committee shall have power, from time to time, to direct the holding trustees to vary or transpose such investments.

The holding trustees may also enter into arrangements for the provision of investment management services by stockbrokers, merchant banks and/or suitably qualified investments managers (which may include power for such managers to make specific investment decisions under general policy guidelines laid down from time to time by the committee) to vary or change such arrangements and to pay reasonable charges for such services out of the Society's income.

The investments held by the Charity include UK Government Fixed Interest Bonds, UK Unit Trusts and shares in subsidiary companies.

The market value of the investments decreased this year by £120,836 and is included in (losses)/gains on investment assets.

The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the Society is exposed and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Plans for the future

The charity will continue with its regular activities in pursuit of its Objectives. This will entail organising shows (particularly attempting to seek out venues that will attract new visitors), tours, travel awards and grants, educational exhibits (especially at major national and regional shows), workshops, the seed exchange scheme and publication of its quarterly journal ‘The Alpine Gardener’.

The Trustee Board recognises that the Society must concentrate its efforts on attracting new members as part of its exploration of new initiatives to ensure its long-term future. The appointment of a Social Media Editor was one such important initiative. The Society will continue to publish information on alpine plants across various social media platforms, thereby reaching a wider and, it is hoped, younger audience.

The Society continues to consider how it engages with members and the general public, the shift to a more on-line approach including on-line flower shows, virtual lectures and on-line members groups is proving extremely valuable in keeping members engaged and attracting a younger audience.

Structure, governance and management

The Alpine Garden Society (AGS) was founded in 1929, with the aim of promoting an interest in all aspects of alpine plants, their cultivation in rock gardens and plant conservation in natural habitats. It is a membership organisation, registered with the Charity Commission and is governed by its constitution and rules adopted 4 November 1966, as amended November 2011.

The trustees who currently serve are listed on the Legal and Administrative Information page.

The Charity's present governing body consists of 11 Trustees; 4 of these are Officers who are elected annually, serving for a potential maximum of ten years under the new Constitution adopted at the AGM in November 2011 and later amended in November 2013. Under this Constitution changes were made to the number of trustees elected annually to create a smaller governing body. The aim of this change was to enable the Society to manage its affairs more effectively. Currently there are two trustees elected each year to serve for a period of four years (8 in total), plus a President, Treasurer and up to four other officers who will also be trustees, giving a maximum number of 14 trustees. Trustee vacancies are advertised in the Society’s Newsletter that is circulated to all members, both home and overseas. Nominations are invited and the names of nominated candidates, together with supporting statements, are published in the Society Newsletter. If there are more nominations than vacancies, a vote is taken by secret ballot at the AGM. Casual vacancies that arise may be filled by co-option if it is felt to be necessary. An annual Induction Day is organized for all newly elected Trustees and Officers (they are provided with a list of Trustees’ duties and responsibilities, the Charity Commission ‘Good Trustee Guide’, Declaration of Eligibility, together with the Society’s ‘Code of Conduct’ for Trustees).

The governing body is known as the ‘Trustee Board’ upon which all Trustees (excluding Custodian Trustees) serve. The Board is chaired by the Society's President; policy and strategy are set by the Board. The number of standing committees reporting to the Board has been reduced and the majority of Society business and that of its subsidiary trading companies is now dealt with directly by the Board. This ensures that every Trustee is fully involved in financial, decisions, budget setting and Society activities as a whole. The only remaining committee deals with the operation of the Society’s competitive shows. In addition, the Trustee Board may, from time to time, establish working parties to pursue special initiatives such as marketing, website development, educational conferences, displays and specific plant related projects.

The Society has 43 Affiliated Local Groups spread around the UK. Support is offered to the Groups in the form of insurance cover, stationery, publicity material, programme printing, mail shots and free hosting for their own website area. Grants may be given to assist with the cost of speakers or to help with the purchase of equipment.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Specialist Group - The History of Rock and Alpine gardening Group (HORAG) is open to all members of the Society.

The Charity employs two full-time staff who deal with the administration of the Charity as well as its limited companies. The Society employs a professional Editor who has specific responsibility for publication of the Society journal and other society publications. The Society Editor is an ex-officio member of the Trustee Board and other relevant working parties. The post of web and Social Media Editor also carries ex officio membership. The Society Director also serves as an ex-officio member of the Trustee Board and any other relevant committees or working groups. The Society Director is responsible for the implementation of the policies laid down by the Board. In addition to overseeing the administration of the Charity and its subsidiary companies, he gives guidance, advice and support to Officers and Trustees on governance issues. He is also Company Secretary to the limited companies.

Related parties

The Society conducts the majority of its trading activities through two wholly owned subsidiary companies – A.G.S. Publications Limited and AGS Expeditions Limited. The management of these companies is controlled by directors, namely the President, Treasurer and any relevant officer, together with the three Society Custodian Holding Trustees who hold the shares in trust on behalf of the charity.

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Mr D Morris

President Dated: 21 October 2023

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Society and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the Society for that year.

In preparing these accounts, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Society and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Alpine Garden Society (the ‘Society’) (the parent charity) and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 August 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and the notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the group's and parent charity's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to cease operations of the group or the parent charity, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

Audit response to risks identified

The information obtained through the assessment to risk procedures is reviewed and the following work undertaken:

It should be noted that Auditing standards limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https:// www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Other matters

Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared financial statements 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 UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (as amended) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn.

This has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with current Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Sarah Morley ACA (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Kendall Wadley LLP

21 October 2023

Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor

Merevale House 27 Sansome Walk Worcester WR1 1NU

Kendall Wadley LLP is eligible for appointment as auditor of the Society by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Current financial year

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2023
2023
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Voluntary income
3
118,381
-
Charitable activities
4
238,822
-
Investments
5
48,232
6,058
Total income
405,435
6,058
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
195,950
5,000
Charitable activities
7
403,195
4,725
Total resources expended
599,145
9,725
Net movement before investment (losses)/gains
(193,710)
(3,667)
Net (losses)/gains on investments
13
(105,986)
(13,420)
Net movement in funds
(299,696)
(17,087)
Fund balances at 1 September 2022
2,098,933
208,177
Fund balances at 31 August 2023
1,799,237
191,090		 Total
2023
£
118,381
238,822
54,290
411,493
200,950
407,920
608,870
(197,377)
(119,406)
(316,783)
2,307,110
1,990,327		 Total
2022
£
144,679
65,094
51,961
261,734
54,097
393,046
447,143
(185,409)
(126,933)
(312,342)
2,619,452
2,307,110

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Prior financial year
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2022
2022
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Voluntary income
3
144,679
-
Charitable activities
4
65,094
-
Investments
5
46,389
5,572
Total income
256,162
5,572
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
51,148
2,949
Charitable activities
7
387,756
5,290
Total resources expended
438,904
8,239
Net movement in funds before investment (losses)/gains
(182,742)
(2,667)
Net gains on investments
13
(113,214)
(13,719)
Net movement in funds
(295,956)
(16,386)
Fund balances at 1 September 2021
2,394,889
224,563
Fund balances at 31 August 2022
2,098,933
208,177		 Total
2022
£
144,679
65,094
51,961
261,734
54,097
393,046
447,143
(185,409)
(126,933)
(312,342)
2,619,452
2,307,110

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 AUGUST 2023

Notes
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
14
Tangible assets
15
Investments
16
Current assets
Stocks
18
Debtors
19
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
20
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Income funds
Restricted funds
21
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
22
General unrestricted funds		 2023
£
£
-
270,267
1,627,300
1,897,567
29,497
31,040
68,743
129,280
(36,520)
92,760
1,990,327
191,090
308,810
1,490,427
1,799,237
1,990,327		 2022
£
£
18,949
329,681
1,846,706
2,195,336
36,216
174,477
83,828
294,521
(182,747)
111,774
2,307,110
208,177
331,686
1,767,247
2,098,933
2,307,110		 2022
£
£
18,949
329,681
1,846,706
2,195,336
36,216
174,477
83,828
294,521
(182,747)
111,774
2,307,110
208,177
331,686
1,767,247
2,098,933
2,307,110
2,195,336
111,774
2,307,110
208,177
2,098,933
2,307,110

The accounts were approved by the Trustees on 21 October 2023

Mr D Morris President

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CHARITY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Current financial year
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Voluntary income
3
118,381
-
Charitable activities
4
69,319
-
Investments
5
59,439
6,058
Total income
247,139
6,058
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
63,069
5,000
Charitable activities
7
395,275
4,725
Total resources expended
458,344
9,725
Net movement before investment (losses)/gains
(211,205)
(3,667)
Net (losses)/gains on investments
13
(105,986)
(13,420)
Net movement in funds
(317,191)
(17,087)
Fund balances at 1 September 2022
2,111,429
208,177
Fund balances at 31 August 2023
1,794,238
191,090		 Total
2023
£
118,381
69,319
65,497
253,197
68,069
400,000
468,069
(214,872)
(119,406)
(334,278)
2,319,606
1,985,328		 Total
2022
£
144,679
37,618
51,961
234,258
30,169
387,125
417,294
(183,036)
(126,933)
(309,969)
2,629,575
2,319,606

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CHARITY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Prior financial year
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Voluntary income
3
144,679
-
Charitable activities
4
37,618
-
Investments
5
46,389
5,572
Total income
228,686
5,572
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
27,220
2,949
Charitable activities
7
381,835
5,290
Total resources expended
409,055
8,239
Net movement before investment (losses)/gains
(180,369)
(2,667)
Net gains on investments
13
(113,214)
(13,719)
Net movement in funds
(293,583)
(16,386)
Fund Balances at 1 September 2020
2,405,012
224,563
Fund Balances at 31 August 2021
2,111,429
208,177		 Total
2022
£
144,679
37,618
51,961
234,258
30,169
387,125
417,294
(183,036)
(126,933)
(309,969)
2,629,575
2,319,606

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CHARITY BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 AUGUST 2023

Notes
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
14
Tangible assets
15
Investments
16
Current assets
Stocks
18
Debtors
19
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
20
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Income funds
Restricted funds
21
Designated funds
22
General unrestricted funds		 2023
£
£
-
270,267
1,627,306
1,897,573
4,691
69,288
45,617
119,596
(31,841)
87,755
1,985,328
191,090
308,810
1,485,428
1,985,328		 2022
£
£
18,949
329,681
1,846,712
2,195,342
6,115
89,674
80,782
176,571
(52,307)
124,264
2,319,606
208,177
331,686
1,779,743
2,319,606		 2022
£
£
18,949
329,681
1,846,712
2,195,342
6,115
89,674
80,782
176,571
(52,307)
124,264
2,319,606
208,177
331,686
1,779,743
2,319,606
2,195,342
124,264
2,319,606
208,177
331,686
1,779,743
2,319,606

The accounts were approved by the Trustees on 21 October 2023

Mr D Morris President

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash absorbed by operations
25
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Proceeds on disposal of investments
Interest received
Net cash generated from investing
activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		 2023
£
£
(168,311)
(1,064)
100,000
54,290
153,226
-
(15,085)
83,828
68,743		 2022
£
£
(213,713)
(9,917)
158,252
49,669
198,004
-
(15,709)
99,537
83,828

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

1 Accounting policies

Company information

The Alpine Garden Society (AGS) was founded in 1929, with the aim of promoting an interest in all aspects of alpine plants, their cultivation in rock gardens and plant conservation in natural habitats. It is a membership organisation, registered in England and Wales with the Charity Commission and is governed by its constitution and rules adopted 4 November 1966, as amended November 2011. The registered office is A G S Centre, Avon Bank, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 3JP.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Society's constitution, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)". The Society is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the Society. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include investments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

Basis of consolidation

In the parent charity financial statements, the cost of a business combination is the fair value at the acquisition date of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed, plus costs directly attributable to the business combination.

The consolidated financial statements incorporate those of Alpine Garden Society and all of its subsidiaries (ie entities that the group controls through its power to govern the financial and operating policies so as to obtain economic benefits).

All financial statements are made up to 31 August 2023.

All intra-group transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated on consolidation.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Society has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are those funds representing unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.4 Incoming resources

Income is recognised when the Society is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the Society has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Subscriptions are accounted for net of VAT and are recognised in the accounts on a renewals basis.

Donations are accounted for gross when received.

Investment income is accounted for based on the dividends and interest receivable for the year. Sundry sales are accounted for net of VAT and are recognised at the point of sale.

Advertising income is accounted for net of VAT and is recognised at the date of publications.

Legacies are accounted for when there is reasonable certainty of entitlement to that income and the quantum can be determined with a degree of accuracy.

Tour income is accounted for in the period in which the tour is completed.

1.5 Resources expended

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Costs are allocated between costs of generating funds and charitable expenditure according to the nature of the cost. Where items involve more than one category they are apportioned on the basis of staff time as appropriate.

1.6 Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets represents the cost of the development of the website used by all involved in the Society.

Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Website development

5 years straight line

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.7 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Fixed assets for charity use are capitalised at cost, where acquired or market value as determined by the trustees when donated. They are stated in the accounts at cost or valuation less depreciation.

Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost or valuation of the fixed assets, less their estimated residual value over their expected useful lives on an individual basis.

Leasehold property between 10% and 5% on a straight line basis Trophies and medals At valuation - not depreciated Fixtures & fittings 25% reducing balance Computers Straight line over 5 years Library At valuation - not depreciated Glasshouse 25 years straight line

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.8 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transaction price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.

An associate is an entity, being neither a subsidiary nor a joint venture, in which the Society holds a long-term interest and where the Society has significant influence. The Society considers that it has significant influence where it has the power to participate in the financial and operating decisions of the associate.

1.9 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the Society reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use

If the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in the statement of financial activities for the year.

1.10 Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

1.11 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.12 Financial instruments

The Society has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the Society's balance sheet when the Society becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors are initially recognised at transaction. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the Society’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.13 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

1.14 Retirement benefits

The Society operates a defined contributions pension scheme. Contributions are charged in the accounts as they become payable in accordance with the rules of the scheme.

1.15 Life membership

Subscriptions of life membership are included in the balance sheet as deferred income and released to the Statement of Financial Activities over 15 years.

1.16 Lease costs

Rentals payable under operating leases are charged against income on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the Society’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

3 Voluntary income

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2023 2022
£ £
GROUP AND CHARITY
Donations and gifts 2,488 1,410
Legacies receivable 1,910 22,706
Subscriptions 113,983 120,563
118,381 144,679

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

4 Charitable activities

GROUP
Advertisin
g Income -
Bulletins
£
Charitable income from activities
6,283
Other income
-
Trading Income
-
6,283
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
6,283
6,283
For the year ended 31 August 2022
Unrestricted funds
6,091
6,091		 GROUP
Advertisin
g Income -
Bulletins
£
Charitable income from activities
6,283
Other income
-
Trading Income
-
6,283
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
6,283
6,283
For the year ended 31 August 2022
Unrestricted funds
6,091
6,091
Seed Merchand
ise
Conference
and events
£
£
£
8,950
461
28,709
-
-
-
-
-
-
8,950
461
28,709
8,950
461
28,709
8,950
461
28,709
9,442
915
3,377
9,442
915
3,377		 Major
exhibits
Show
donations
AGS
Expeditions
AGS
Publication
s
£
£
£
£
-
28,631
-
-
684
-
-
-
-
-
150,818
14,286
684
28,631
150,818
14,286
684
28,631
150,818
14,286
684
28,631
150,818
14,286
286
23,209
-
21,774
286
23,209
-
21,774		 Total
2023
£
73,034
684
165,104
238,822
238,822
238,822		 Total
2022
£
43,034
286
21,774
6,283 65,094
6,283
65,094
6,283
6,091
6,091 65,094

The income from charitable activities for the charity is as above excluding the trading income from the subsidiary undertakings net of a provision against the amount due from A.G.S. Publications Limited of £4,399 (2022 - £5,702).

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

5 Investments

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
GROUP
£
£
Investment income
48,232
6,058
For the year ended 31 August 2022
46,389
5,572
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
CHARITY
£
£
Deeds of covenant
12,207
-
Investment income
48,232
6,058
60,439
6,058
For the year ended 31 August 2022
46,389
5,572		 Total
2023
£
54,290
Total
2023
£
12,207
54,290
66,497		 Total
2022
£
51,961
51,961
Total
2022
£
-
51,961
51,961
51,961

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

6 Raising funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
£
£
Direct costs of activities
Seed distribution
1,768
-
Show expenditure
28,747
-
Conferences
32,554
5,000
CHARITY
63,069
5,000
Expenditure of subsidiary companies
AGS Expeditions Limited (excluding wage & governance costs)
119,427
-
AGS Publications Limited (excluding wage & governance costs)
13,454
-
Expenditure of subsidiary companies
132,881
-
GROUP
195,950
5,000		 Total Unrestricted
Restricted
2023
funds
funds
£
£
£
1,768
2,529
28,747
22,979
37,554
1,712
2,949
68,069
27,220
2,949
119,427
4,515
-
13,454
19,413
-
132,881
23,928
-
200,950
51,148
2,949		 Total
2022
£
2,529
22,979
4,661
30,169
4,515
19,413
23,928
54,097

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

7 Charitable activities

GROUP

Staff costs
Depreciation and amortisation
Journal
Newsletter
Awards and prizes
Headquarter garden
Promotion
Advertising
Share of support costs (see note 9)
Share of governance costs (see note 9)
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
For the year ended 31 August 2022
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds		 2023
£
116,814
79,429
44,730
2,209
21,001
8,359
253
8,405
281,200
116,023
10,697
407,920
403,195
4,725
407,920		 2022
£
114,783
25,330
59,382
1,732
35,014
13,993
85
9,735
260,054
121,552
11,440
393,046
387,756
5,290
393,046

Included in Depreciation and amortisation is £54,258 in respect of an impairment to the value of theTrophies held by the Society.

Group governance costs includes payments to the auditors of £7000 (2022- £6,950) for annual audit fees and £1,400 (2022 £1,370) for other non- audit services. For the charity, governance costs includes £3,700 (2022 - £3,600) for annual audit fees. In addition £1,098 (2022 - £1,170) was paid for non-audit services.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

7 Charitable activities

Charitable activities
CHARITY
Staff costs
Depreciation and amortisation
Journal
Newsletter
Awards and prizes
Headquarter garden
Promotion
Advertising
Grant funding of activities
Share of support costs (see note 9)
Share of governance costs (see note 9)
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
For the year ended 31 August 2022
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds		 (Continued)
2023
2022
£
£
114,514
114,783
79,429
25,330
44,730
59,381
2,209
1,732
21,001
35,014
8,359
13,993
253
85
8,405
9,735
278,900
260,053
-
-
115,023
120,252
6,077
6,820
400,000
387,125
342,017
4,725
346,742
381,835
5,290
387,125		 (Continued)
2023
2022
£
£
114,514
114,783
79,429
25,330
44,730
59,381
2,209
1,732
21,001
35,014
8,359
13,993
253
85
8,405
9,735
278,900
260,053
-
-
115,023
120,252
6,077
6,820
400,000
387,125
342,017
4,725
346,742
381,835
5,290
387,125
260,053
-
120,252
6,820
387,125
381,835
5,290
387,125

8 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration during the year, travelling expenses of £580 were reimbursed to 5 trustees (2022- £1,129).

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

9 Support costs

GROUP

Staff costs
Heating, lighting, rates
and water
Insurance
Communications
Printing and stationery
Postage
Computer and IT costs
Accounts
Travelling
Maintenance to property
Miscellaneous expenses
Bank charges
Investment Management
Legal and professional
AGM costs
Auditors Remuneration
Analysed between
Charitable activities		 Support
costs
Governance
costs
£
£
55,109
-
3,163
-
8,778
-
3,805
-
1,863
-
1,327
-
19,325
-
1,098
-
8,237
-
1,409
-
4,537
-
7,372
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,297
-
8,400
116,023
10,697
116,023
10,697		 2023
£
55,109
3,163
8,778
3,805
1,863
1,327
19,325
1,098
8,237
1,409
4,537
7,372
-
-
2,297
8,400
126,720
126,720		 2022 Basis of allocation
£
58,046
All allocated to charitable
activities
3,254
7,913
3,439
2,526
2,086
22,596
1,170
6,632
1,228
6,586
5,905
171
2,000 Governance
1,120 Governance
8,320 Governance
132,992
132,992

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

9 Support costs

(Continued)

CHARITY

Staff costs
Heating, lighting, rates
and water
Insurance
Communications
Printing and stationery
Postage
Computer and IT costs
Accounts
Travelling
Maintenance to property
Miscellaneous expenses
Bank charges
Investment Management
Legal and professional
AGM costs
Auditors Remuneration
Analysed between
Charitable activities		 Support
costs
Governance
costs
£
£
55,109
-
3,163
-
7,778
-
3,805
-
1,863
-
1,327
-
19,325
-
1,098
-
8,237
-
1,409
-
4,537
-
7,372
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,297
-
3,780
115,023
6,077
115,024
6,077		 2023
£
55,109
3,163
7,778
3,805
1,863
1,327
19,325
1,098
8,237
1,409
4,537
7,372
-
-
2,297
3,780
121,100
121,100		 2022 Basis of allocation
£
56,746
All allocated to charitable
activities
3,254
7,913
3,439
2,526
2,086
22,596
1,170
6,632
1,228
6,586
5,905
171
2,000 Governance
1,120 Governance
3,700 Governance
127,072
127,072

10 Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxationof Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

11 Employees

Number of employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Administration
Publications
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 2023
Number
2
3
5
2023
£
152,190
9,673
10,060
171,923		 2022
Number
2
3
5
2022
£
148,986
10,231
9,853
169,070

All employees are considered to be key management personnel.

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more.

12 Retirement benefit schemes

Defined contribution schemes

The Society operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Society in an independently administered fund. In addition the Society contributes to other pension arrangements of certain employees.

The charge to statement of financial activities in respect of such contributions was £10,060 (2022 - £9,853).

13 Net (losses)/gains on investments

Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
funds funds 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Revaluation of investments (107,255) (13,581) (120,836) (124,332)
(Loss)/gain on sale of investments 1,269 161 1,430 (2,601)
(105,986) (13,420) (119,406) (126,933)
For the year ended 31
August 2022 (113,214) (13,719) (126,933)

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

14 Intangible fixed assets
GROUP AND CHARITY
Website development
£
Cost
At 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023 94,741
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 September 2022 75,792
Amortisation charged for the year 18,949
At 31 August 2023 94,741
Carrying amount
At 31 August 2023 -
At 31 August 2022 18,949

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

15 Tangible fixed assets

GROUP AND CHARITY

Leasehold
property
Trophies and
medals
Fixtures &
fittings
Computers
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 September 2022
198,211
79,258
108,856
-
Additions
-
-
-
1,064
Disposals
-
-
(10,175)
-
At 31 August 2023
198,211
79,258
98,681
1,064
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 September 2022
53,239
-
106,932
-
Depreciation charged in the year
2,239
-
890
89
Impairment losses
-
54,258
-
-
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
-
(10,175)
-
At 31 August 2023
55,478
54,258
97,647
89
Carrying amount
At 31 August 2023
142,733
25,000
1,034
975
At 31 August 2022
144,971
79,258
1,924
-		 Library
Glasshouse
£
£
40,470
75,070
-
-
-
-
40,470
75,070
-
12,012
-
3,003
-
-
-
-
-
15,015
40,470
60,055
40,470
63,058		 Total
£
501,865
1,064
(10,175)
492,754
172,183
6,221
54,258
(10,175)
222,487
270,267
329,681

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

15 Tangible fixed assets

(Continued)

The Trophies and Medals were valued in December 2008 at £79,258 by Tower Trophies, an independent valuer for insurance purposes. The Trustees of the Society have considered the valuation and feel that in the current economic climate, that value should be reduced to £25,000.

The Library books were valued in October 2015 by Mike Park Limited, specialists in gardening, botany and natural history books. The trustees believe that this valuation is not materially different to that as at 31 August 2016 under the transitional provisions of FRS 102, these values are considered to be deemed cost.

16 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments
GROUP
UK Unit Trusts
CHARITY
UK Unit Trusts
Shares in Subsidiary Companies		 2023
£
1,627,300
2023
£
1,627,300
6
1,627,306		 2022
£
1,846,706
2022
£
1,846,706
6
1,846,712

The subsidiary undertakings are wholly owned and are A.G.S. Expeditions Limited and A.G.S. Publications Limited, companies incorporated in England and Wales.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

16
Fixed asset investments
Movements in fixed asset investments
GROUP
Cost or valuation
At 31 August 2019
Valuation changes
Disposals
At 31 August 2023
Carrying amount
At 31 August 2023
At 31 August 2022
CHARITY
Cost or valuation
At 31 August 2019
Additions
Valuation changes
Disposals
At 31 August 2023
Carrying amount
At 31 August 2023
At 31 August 2022
17
Financial instruments
Carrying amount of financial assets
Equity instruments measured at market value		 (Continued)
UK Unit
Shares in
Trust
Subsidiary
Companies
Total
£
£
£
1,846,706
-
1,846,706
(119,406)
-
(119,406)
(100,000)
-
(100,000)
1,627,300
-
1,627,300
1,627,300
-
1,627,300
1,846,706
-
1,846,706
UK Unit
Shares in
Trust
Subsidiary
Companies
Total
£
£
£
1,846,706
6
1,846,712
-
-
-
(119,406)
-
(119,406)
(100,000)
-
(100,000)
1,627,300
6
1,627,306
1,627,300
6
1,627,306
1,846,706
6
1,846,712
2023
2022
£
£
1,627,300
1,846,706

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

18
Stocks
GROUP
Goods for resale
CHARITY
Goods for resale
19
Debtors
GROUP
2023
2022
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
735
66,215
Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings
-
-
Other debtors
10,096
10,478
Prepayments and accrued income
20,209
97,784
31,040
174,477
Amounts falling due after one year:
Amounts falling due after more than one year
and included in the debtors above are:
Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings
-
-
-
-
20
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
GROUP
2023
2022
£
£
Other taxation and social security
3,118
3,889
Deferred income
2,920
4,178
Payments received on account
-
125,760
Other creditors
12,930
30,433
Accruals
17,552
18,487
36,520
182,747		 2023
£
29,497
4,691
CHARITY
2023
£
-
40,349
10,190
18,749
69,288
14,649
14,649
CHARITY
2023
£
3,118
2,920
-
12,930
12,873
31,841		 2022
£
36,216
6,115
2022
£
-
38,803
10,508
40,363
89,674
22,545
22,545
2022
£
3,889
4,178
-
30,433
13,807
29,183

Deferred income represents monies received in advance for forthcoming conferences and events, advertising and pre-publication orders, this is released in the subsequent period as the events occur, bulletins are issued or books are dispatched.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

21 Restricted funds

The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:

Balance at
1 September
2021
r
£
E F Hendry Bequest
209,283
Wilsher Fund
6,260
Alpine House
9,020
224,563		 Movement in funds
Incoming
esources
Resources
expended
Investment
gains/losses
Balance at
1 September
2022
r
£
£
£
£
5,416
(7,155)
(13,350)
194,194
156
(674)
(369)
5,373
-
(410)
-
8,610
5,572
(8,239)
(13,719)
208,177		 Movement in funds
Incoming
esources
Resources
expended
Investment
gains/losses
Balance at
31 August
2023
£
£
£
£
5,898
(8,894)
(13,071)
178,127
160
(421)
(349)
4,763
-
(410)
-
8,200
6,058
(9,725)
(13,420)
191,090		 Movement in funds
Incoming
esources
Resources
expended
Investment
gains/losses
Balance at
31 August
2023
£
£
£
£
5,898
(8,894)
(13,071)
178,127
160
(421)
(349)
4,763
-
(410)
-
8,200
6,058
(9,725)
(13,420)
191,090
191,090

E F Hendry Bequest Fund - The monies are to be used to advance and promote the charitable activities of Alpine Garden Society for the benefit of the East Surrey Group.

Wilsher Fund - The monies are to be used to advance and promote the charitable activities of Alpine Garden Society for the benefit of the Bedfordshire Group.

Alpine House - funds received for the construction of the Alpine House in the Society garden.

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

22 Designated funds

The income funds of the charity include the following designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes:

Balance at
1 September
2021
Resources
expended
Revaluations,
gains and
losses
£
£
£
Stirt Piggin
AGS Centre
Memorial
Garden Fund
33,112
(4,409)
(1,936)
Major
Projects Fund
169,547
-
(9,918)
Anthony Pettit
AGS Centre
Fund
154,313
-
(9,023)
356,972
(4,409)
(20,877)
23
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
2023
2023
£
£
Fund balances at 31
August 2023 are
represented by:
Intangible fixed assets
-
-
Tangible assets
262,067
8,200
Investments
1,444,410
182,890
Current assets/(liabilities)
92,760
-
1,799,237
191,090		 Balance at
1 September
2022
Resources
expended
Transfers
£
£
£
26,767
(1,534)
(1,722)
159,629
-
(10,271)
145,290
-
(9,349)
331,686
(1,534)
(21,342)
Total Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
2023
2022
2022
£
£
£
-
18,949
-
270,267
321,071
8,610
1,627,300
1,647,139
199,567
92,760
111,774
-
1,990,327
2,098,933
208,177		 Balance at
31 August
2023
£
23,511
149,358
135,941
308,810
Total
2022
£
18,949
329,681
1,846,706
111,774
2,307,110

ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

24 Related party transactions

A.G.S Publications Limited

During the period Alpine Garden Society advanced funds to A.G.S Publications Limited. At the balance sheet date A.G.S Publications Limited owed the Alpine Garden Society £34,752 (2022 £38,249) against which a provision of £10,101 (2022 - £5,702) has been made.

At the period end there was no profit to covenant from A.G.S Publications Limited to the Alpine Garden Society (2022 £nil).

A recharge of £300 (2022 £300) has been made by the Alpine Garden Society in respect of time spent by staff on the administration of activities for the year and £1,000 (2022 - £1,000) in respect of insurance.

A.G.S Expeditions Limited

During the period, Alpine Garden Society advanced funds to A.G.S Expeditions Limited, the amounts owed by the company at the balance sheet date were £15,701 (2022 £6,259).

A recharge of £2,000 (2022 - £1,000) has been made by the Alpine Garden Society in respect of time spent by staff on the administration of the company, no tours were possible during the year.

At the period end there was £11,207 available to covenant to the Society (2022 £nil was covenanted).

25 Cash generated from operations 2023 2022
£ £
Deficit for the year (316,783) (312,342)
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in the statement of financial activities (54,290) (51,961)
(Gain)/loss on disposal of investments (1,430) 2,350
Fair value gains and losses on investments 120,836 124,584
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment of tangible fixed assets 79,427 25,330
Movements in working capital:
Decrease/(increase) in stocks 6,719 (3,894)
Decrease/(increase) in debtors 143,437 (145,221)
(Decrease)/increase in creditors (146,227) 147,441
Cash absorbed by operations (168,311) (213,713)