## **ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025** 

## **GOSPEL STANDARD AID AND POOR RELIEF SOCIETY** 

## INCORPORATING 

The Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society The Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund The Gospel Standard Magazine Fund **Registered Charity No. 209373** 

______ 

**NOTICE is hereby given that if the Lord will the Annual General Meeting of the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society will be held at** 

**CLIFTON CHAPEL, BROAD STREET, CLIFTON, SHEFFORD, BEDFORDSHIRE, SG17 5RJ** 

**On FRIDAY,  10 APRIL 2026, at 2.00 p.m.** 

**______** 

**PRAYER MEETING at 11.00 a.m.** 

______ 

**EVENING SERVICE to commence at 5.30 p.m. Mr. G. D. BUSS is expected to preach** 

_____ Please bring this Report with you to the meeting_ 

## **2.00pm Meeting for Children** 

A meeting for children (5-15) will take place in the school lunch hall.  This is to enable and encourage families to attend the whole day. Children under 5 are welcome but need parent with them. 

Further details may be obtained from Mr D Sayers (07913 167253) and Mr G Cottingham (07763 159276) 



## **Legal and Adminis** _**trative Information**_ 

## _**Name of the Charity**_ 

The Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society 

## _**Registered Charity Number**_ 

209373 

## _**Trustees**_ 

The members of the Committee of the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society are the Trustees of the Charity. 

Those serving during the financial year and since the year end: 

G. D. Buss, (Chairman) “Bethany,” 7 Laines Head, Chippenham, Wilts., SN15 1PH 

A. J. Collins, 26 Gimble Way, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4BX 

J. H. Cottington, (Vice-Chairman) 6 Lansdowne Crescent, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1LN 

M. Cottington, 19 Newman Street, Burton Latimer, Kettering, Northants, NN15 5SH 

G. E. Hadley, 22 Woolston Avenue, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 2ED 

J. B. Hart, 4 Coombe End, Crowborough, East Sussex, TN6 1NH 

M. J. Hyde, 98 The Brow, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 6LN 

G. W. Hyde, 5 Hawthorn Cottages, Appledore, Ashford, Kent, TN26 2AH 

B. P. Mercer, “Manor Acre,” Little London Road, Horam, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 0BL 

T. J. Parish, 1710 Richmond Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, United States of America 

T. H. W. Scott, 6 Orchard Avenue, Harpenden, Herts., AL5 2DP (retired 11 April 2025) 

D. F. Stevens, 8 Percy Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 9PA 

A. F. Wilderspin, 101 Byng Drive, Potters Bar, Herts., EN6 1UJ 

## _**Fund Trustees**_ 

G. D. Buss       J. H. Cottington G. W. Hyde     T. H. W. Scott 

## _**Editor of**_ **“** _**The Gospel Standard**_ **”** 

M. J. Hyde, Ettrick, 98 The Brow, Brighton, BN2 6LN 

## _**Editor of “The Friendly Companion”**_ 

G. L. TenBroeke, 1725 Plainwood Drive, Sheboygan, Wisconsin 53081, USA 

## _**Editor of “Perception”**_ 

- T. J. Parish, 1710 Richmond Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 United States of America 

2 



## _**Secretary**_ 

D. J. Christian, 5 Roundwood Gardens, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 3AJ 

## _**Treasurer**_ 

B. P. Mercer, “Manor Acre,” Little London Road, Horam, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 0BL 

## _**Address of principal office of the Charity**_ 

5 Roundwood Gardens, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 3AJ Tel: 01582 762717 

## _**Linked Charity**_ 

The Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund – charity number _**209373-1**_ 

## _**Bankers**_ 

NatWest Bank Plc, 30 High Street, Chippenham, Wilts., SN15 3HB 

## _**Solicitors**_ 

Broadfield, One Bartholomew Close, London EC1A 7BL 

3 



## **ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING** 

## **10 April 2026 at 2.00 p.m.** 

## **Agenda** 

1. Reading and prayer. 

2. Chairman’s remarks. 

3. To approve the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 11 April 2025. 

4. To introduce the Annual Report and Accounts of the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society for the year ended 31 December 2025. 

5. 

To announce the result of the secret ballot to re-elect three members of the Committee of the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society, Mr. G. D. Buss, Mr. J. B. Hart, and Mr. T. J. Parish. 

6. 

To announce the result of the secret ballot to confirm the appointment of Mr. P. S. Cottingham to serve on the Committee of the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society for three years. 

- 7.. 

To appoint a Fund Trustee to replace Mr. T. H. W. Scott 

4 



**GOSPEL STANDARD AID AND POOR RELIEF SOCIETY** 

## **Annual Report 2025** 

We are reminded, as another year passes, of the various expressions used in the Word of God to emphasise the shortness of our lives here on earth. “For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4 v14). Job uses several examples “My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle.” (Job 7 v 6) “Now my days … are passed away as the swift ships: as the eagle that hasteth to the prey.” (Job 9 v 25,26) Several times our lives are compared with grass or flowers. The Psalmist writes “As for man, his days are as grass: as the flower of the field, so he flouisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.” (Psalm 103 v15,16) 

Isaac Watts wrote: 

Time! What an empty vapour ‘tis? And days how swift they are! Swift as an Indian arrow flies, Or like a shooting star. 

The present moments just appear, Then slide away in haste, That we can never say, “They’re here,” But only say “They’re past.” 

Our life is ever on the wing, And death is ever nigh; The moment when our lives begin, We all begin to die. 

How important then that we all take heed to the words of the Psalmist: “So teach us to number our days, that we may a apply _our_ hearts unto wisdom.” (Psalm 90 v12) 

The December issue of the Gospel Standard marked the end of the editorship our esteemed editor, Mr. Gerald Buss, after just over five years. He took over at short notice and always felt he was the interim editor but was very helped and we believe his labours have been blessed to the readers. We give thanks to Lord for all His help over this period and we wish him the Lord’s blessing for the future.  The committee prayerfully considered his replacement and, as announced at the Annual General Meeting in April, at the March committee meeting Mr. Matthew Hyde, pastor of Jireh Chapel, Lewes, had been chosen as editor to commence in January 2026. We wish him the Lord’s help and blessing. We also acknowledge the Lord’s goodness to Mr. Gary Tenbroeke, editor of the Friendly Companion and Mr. Timothy Parish, editor of Perception. May they still know the Lord’s help as they prepare the magazines. 

5 



Turning to financial matters there was an overall surplus of £7,240 for the year. Income at £265,386 was considerably lower than in 2024 but the surplus is accounted for from the proceeds of the sales of Horsham and Bristol chapels which amounted to £652,205 in 2024. Total expenses amounted to £258,010 an increase of £9,741 or 3.9%. 

The individual funds showed a surplus of £20,863 in the Aid and Poor Relief Fund and deficits of £8,180 in the Magazine Fund and £5,443 in the Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund. 

The postage costs remain very high and, to try to save costs, towards the end of the year the magazines for the United States of America were sent in bulk to Grand Rapids and then posted from there. We appreciate the help of friends who voluntarily prepare the labels and envelopes each month and those who assist with proof-reading and work on the wrapper. 

The deficit in the Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund was reduced by the closure of the Providence Chapel Poor Fund and the decision of the Trustees to pass the remaining funds of £20,895 to the Gadsby Fund. 

Grants to individuals from the Aid and Poor Relief Fund were lower as fewer car grants were made in 2025. However, grants to chapels for the payment of ministers were higher, which is a sad reflection on the low numbers in many of our churches. May the Lord have mercy on us and grant an outpouring of the Holy Spirit that we know a reviving amongst us and the sending forth of more labourers into the vineyard. 

The committee have been deeply concerned that few ministers have been added to the list of Gospel Standard ministers although there are several who preach acceptably in our chapels. In April, a consultation document was sent to ministers, correspondents, and subscribers. A number of replies were received with wide ranging views. A sub-committee was formed and have carefully considered all the replies and the committee hope to come to a conclusion shortly. The committee would still be pleased to receive recommendations for ministers to be added to the list under the present arrangements which are printed in the wrapper of the January Gospel Standard Magazine. The late Mr. Leonard Broome said the primary purpose of the list was to be a help to the churches. 

A Prayer Meeting for the Nation was held in November at Jireh Chapel, Lewes instead of the usual venue of Clifton. An encouraging number were present, and it was felt to be a good day. A Prayer Meeting will be held, if the Lord will, at Clifton on Friday 27th November, to which all are welcome. 

The Committee would like to encourage those who attend our chapels to consider becoming subscribers to the Aid and Poor Relief Society. A number of our elderly friends have passed away during the year, and we would appeal to our younger readers to become subscribers.  Forms  can  be  obtained  from  the  Secretary. There  is  a  minimum  annual subscription of £5.00, and this gives voting rights and a copy of our Annual Report. In addition, subscribers can inform the Secretary of persons who may be in need so that the appropriate enquiries can be made. 

6 



We remember our churches in Australia, Canada, and the United States of America. We are pleased that Mr. Timothy Parish was finally able to take up his pastorate at Grand Rapids in May. During the year Mr. G. W. Hyde and Mr. G. E. Hadley visited the churches in Australia. Several ministers preach online to the churches there. 

We record our gratitude to the Lord for all His goodness to us through another year and seek that He will continue to grant His blessing. Above all may we be found “looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” 

“Brethren pray for us.” 

7 



## **GOSPEL STANDARD AID AND POOR RELIEF SOCIETY (Charity number 209373)** 

## **Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 December 2025** 

The Trustees have pleasure in submitting their report and the financial statements of the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society for the year ended 31 December 2025. 

## **Trustees** 

The names of the Trustees are listed on page 2. 

## **Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities** 

The responsibilities of the Trustees under the Charities Act 2011 are as follows: 

- (a) To prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of the affairs of the Society’s funds and of the surplus or deficit for that  period  in  accordance  with  the  Charities  Act  2011  and  the  Statement  of Recommended Practice – Accounting and Reporting by Charities. The SORP 2019 (FRS 102) has been adopted at the transition date of 1 January 2019. 

In preparing these financial statements the Trustees will: 

   - select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; 

   - make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

- comply with applicable accounting standards subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and 

- prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in operation. 

- (b) To keep proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Society. 

- (c) To safeguard the assets of the Society and to take reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

- (d) To apply the resources of the Society with complete fairness to meet their charitable objectives. 

8 



## **Structure Governance and Management** 

The Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society is a merger of the activities of the Gospel Standard Aid Society founded in 1875, The Gospel Standard Poor Relief Society founded  in  1878  and  the  Gospel  Standard  Convalescent  Fund.  It  is  governed  by  a Committee who are the Trustees of the Society and by the provisions of the Charity Commission scheme dated 15 October 2007. 

The Gospel Standard Magazine Fund is a designated fund within the merged charity and was created when an indenture dated 27 June 1879 assigned the copyrights and all interests in the magazine and periodicals to the Aid Society and the Poor Relief Society. 

The Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund is a linked charity (charity number 209373-1), was founded in 1894 and is governed by the Declaration of Trust dates 5 November 1908. It is separately administered and shares the same trustees as the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society. Under the authority of a uniting direction of the Charity Commission, it is accounted for with the Gospel Standard aid and Poor Relief Society as if it were the same charity. 

The Gospel Standard Aid Society is still registered as a linked charity (charity number 209373-2) but has been inactive since the merger of its activities with the Poor Relief Society and has no net assets or reserves. 

## **How our activities deliver public benefit** 

The Trustees are conversant with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit and seek at all times to fulfil their obligations.  The Society is an organisation that seeks to advance the Protestant Christian religion in a way that reflects the doctrines and beliefs of Gospel Standard Baptists, and it also encourages adherents to conduct themselves in a socially responsible way in the wider community. The values held and expressed by Gospel Standard Baptists are put into practice in a socially responsible way and the Trustees seek that the practices they observe lead to the improvement of the moral and spiritual welfare of society. 

One of the prime charitable activities of the Society is to provide financial assistance to needy persons who qualify under the rules of the Charity Commission scheme dated 15 October 2007 or under the provisions of the Trust Deed of the Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund. Financial assistance is also given to chapels for the support of the ministry in those chapels and it is hoped that this will be for the benefit of whoever comes to the services that are held. The Trustees’ objectives are that there might be spiritual benefit in addition to the financial support that is given to those in need. 

Another prime objective of the Trustees is the publication of monthly magazines which are subscribed for by readers in all parts of the British Isles and overseas and it is hoped that the material in the magazines is beneficial to the readers. 

9 



The activities of the Society are undertaken to promote our charitable purposes for the public benefit within the areas in which the Charity operates. 

## **Management** 

The method for recruitment and appointment of new Trustees is by nomination of these Trustees and appointment of them by the Committee, subject to the approval of that appointment  at  the  next  Annual  General  Meeting.   New  Trustees  are  given  a  brief introduction to the work and responsibilities of the Committee.  On appointment the responsibilities of being a Trustee are discussed and, if they are not clearly in possession of a copy of the Charity Commission Scheme of 15 October 2007, one is provided.  The governance of the Charity is explained as the Trustees deal with various issues at their regular quarterly meeting and the Chairman or Secretary are always available to give advice and guidance.  The Trustees realise the requirements of the Charity law to provide an induction program and to ensure that the Trustees are aware of the changes in the Charity Sector.  More attention will be given to this in future. 

Under the scheme dated 15 October 2007 Trustees are elected to serve for a period of three years, and one third of the Committee will retire each year on a revolving basis and seek re-election. 

Decisions are taken by a simple majority except in matters of particular significance when a 75% majority of the Trustees is required.  The Secretary has delegated powers, but the authority of the Committee is obtained in respect of all financial matters and actions in pursuit of the objectives of the Charity. 

The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the Charity is exposed and are satisfied that sufficient safeguards are in place to manage those risks.  Detailed financial statements are provided to the Trustees at each quarterly meeting. 

The remuneration paid to key management personnel is decided by the Trustees and is reviewed periodically taking into account inflation and minimum wage legislation. 

## **Objectives and Activities** 

- a) The objectives of the Charity are to provide financial assistance to needy cases who qualify under the rules of the trust deeds. 

- b) To publish monthly the Gospel Standard magazine and the Friendly Companion magazine and quarterly the Perception magazine. 

Subscribers to the Society pay annual subscriptions, and donations are received from individuals and from chapels.  In addition, a number of chapels take collections for the support of the work of the Society. 

10 



Any subscriber may recommend to the Trustees that financial assistance is considered for any needy case of which they are aware. A number of recipients receive quarterly grants which are subject to regular review and a number receive annual payments which are made at the discretion of the Trustees.  Any grant awarded is given in accordance with the formula agreed by the Trustees.  Before making a grant the Trustees assess the financial needs of cases that are brought to their attention. 

## **Achievements and Performance** 

The normal income arising is not sufficient to meet the outgoings at present, although the increase in interest rates has been beneficial, but the Society is able to draw on its reserves. 

The Trustees acknowledge their responsibility to fulfil the objects of the Charity: 

- by distributing the income arising, if necessary supplemented by reserves, to all eligible needy cases.  To help achieve this objective any subscriber may bring to the notice  of the  Trustees  the  need  of  any  person  or  chapel.  That  need  is  then determined, and an appropriate grant is made. 

- by ensuring that the Gospel Standard magazine and the Friendly Companion magazine  are  published  monthly  and  the  Perception  magazine  quarterly  and distributed to all who have subscribed to it.  In cases of need the magazines may be sent free of charge. 

The Trustees review the attainment of these objectives at their regular quarterly meetings and enquire into the circumstances of any need that is brought to their attention. 

## **Investment Policy** 

The Society’s investments are included in the financial statements at market value at the balance sheet date (see note 12).  The change in value over the year is included in the financial statements.  The Trustees review from time to time the policy for investment and are aware of their responsibility to take advice.  The Trustees acknowledge the requirement of the Charity Commission to maximise income by investment in a range of securities.  The policy of the Trustees is not to invest in quoted companies owing to the difficulty in identifying companies whose ethical and moral standards accord with the principles of the Society. The security of invested capital is of prime importance, and the Trustees have therefore used cash deposits to achieve the security which is their objective.  This policy has proved  beneficial  in  the  current  financial  climate  and  interest  rates  have  increased considerably in the latter part of the year. 

**Financial Review** 

11 



The financial statements on pages 14 to 26 set out the excess of income over expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2025.  The Trustees consider the state of the Society’s funds to be satisfactory.  As will be seen from the financial statements the Society is heavily dependent upon all its sources of income, as well as its reserves, to meet the payment of grants and operating expenses.  The voluntary contributions received are comparatively small and the Trustees therefore consider that maintaining the income stream from invested funds is material to the fulfilment of the objectives of the Charity. 

The Society reserves of £3,415,649 are invested to provide the greater part of the income from which grants are paid.  One of the responsibilities of the Trustees is to make effective use of these funds and they examine ways whereby this can be done. 

The Trustees consider it prudent to hold reserves at the existing level to ensure sufficient resources to meet outgoings and also to provide a safeguard should interest rates decline and income therefore be reduced. 

## **Plans for future period** 

At the present time the Trustees have no plans to alter the way in which the Charity operates because the aims and key objectives are fulfilled.  They will however continually review this policy and adapt to any changes which occur. 

On behalf of the Trustees 

## **G. D. Buss 11[th] March 2026** 

12 



## **GOSPEL STANDARD AID AND POOR RELIEF SOCIETY Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees** 

## **for the year ended 31 December 2025** 

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2025 which are set out on pages 14 to 28. 

## **Responsibilities and basis of report** 

As  the  charity's  trustees  you  are  responsible  for  the  preparation  of  the  accounts  in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act'). 

I report in respect of my examination of the trustees' accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commissioner under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act. 

## **Independent examiner's statement** 

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect: 

1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of the Act; or 

2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or 

3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view' which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. 

I  have  no  concerns  and  have  come  across  no  other  matters  in  connection  with  the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

## **Daniel Valentine ACA** 

## **12 March 2026** 

Begbies Unit 14, Park Barn 

13 



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16

**Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025** 

## **Note 1 - Accounting Policies** 

## **1.1 Introduction** 

The financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the valuation of investments at market value.  In preparing the financial statements the Charity follows best practice as set out in the **Charities** Act 2011 and the Statement of Recommended Practice for Charities (SORP 2015) (Second edition, effective 1 January 2019) applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), and UK Generally Accepted Practice. 

The Charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under the Charities Act 2011. The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The Trustees assess whether  the  use  of  going  concern  is  appropriate  and  have  identified  no  material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern. The Trustees make this assessment in respect of a period of 12 months from the date of the approval of the financial statements. 

## **1.2 Fund accounting** 

The financial statements include the income, expenditure and net assets of linked charities under the authority of a uniting direction from the Charity Commission. These funds are presented as restricted. 

## **1.3 Fixed Asset Investments** 

Investments held as fixed assets are re-valued at market value at the balance sheet date and the gain or loss is taken to the Statement of Financial Activities. 

## **1.4 Income tax recoverable** 

The Society is a registered Charity and is exempt from income tax under section 505 of the Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988.  The Society is not registered for VAT.  Income tax to be reclaimed from HM Revenue & Customs on subscriptions and donations made under gift aid and income tax deducted from income received net of tax has been brought into these financial statements as a debtor. 

## **1.5 Income** 

All income is included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. 

A legacy is recognised when it is probable that it will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably. Receipt is normally probable when there has been grant of probate, the executors have established that there are sufficient assets in the estate, after settling any liabilities; and any conditions attached to the legacy are either within the control of the charity or have been met. 

## **1.6 Stock** 

The value of stocks of books, stamps, envelopes and labels and the basis of valuation are referred to in Note 13 to the Financial statements. 

**1.7 Expenditure** 

17 



All expenditure other than grants (see below) is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to that category. 

## **1.8 Grants** 

Grants payable are dealt with on a cash basis when paid and there are no long-term commitments entered into. 

Grants are given at the discretion of the Trustees in the case of proven need to ministers and adherents who qualify under the Society’s rules and also to chapels for the support of the ministry of the gospel. The Trustees enquire from time to time about the circumstances of recipients and review payment of grants on the basis of information received. 

## **1.9 Charitable Activities** 

Costs of charitable activities include grants made as well as costs related to the publishing of magazines, and an apportionment of support costs as shown in Note 6.  These costs, where not wholly attributable, are apportioned between the categories of charitable expenditure in addition to the grants made and other direct costs. 

## **1.10 Governance Costs** 

Governance costs comprise all costs involving the public accountability of the Charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice.  These costs include costs related to statutory audit and legal fees together with an apportionment of overhead and support costs. 

## **1.11 Related Party Transactions** 

The Trustees complete details of other Trusteeships and declare their interest if grants are proposed for any chapels affected. Trustees declare any related party transactions and any transactions are disclosed in note 19 to the accounts. 

## **1.12     Other Financial Instruments** 

All other financial assets and financial liabilities are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. 

18 



## **Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025** 

|**Note 2 Donations and legacies**<br>Collections and donations from chapels<br>Personal donations<br>Personal donations made under gift aid<br>Subscriptions<br>Estate of Mr E Palmer<br>Closure of Croydon Poor Fund<br>Estate of Mrs M Pont<br>Estate of Mr F Hayden<br>Donations following the closure and sale of chapels<br>Bristol Chapel<br>Horsham Chapel<br>**Note 3 Charitable Activities**<br>Sale of magazines<br>Sale of books<br>Postage collected<br>Advertisements<br>**Note 4 - Investment income**<br>Interest received on cash deposits<br>Interest received on National Savings Bond Investment<br>Dividends on COIF Charities Investment Fund Shares|2025<br>£<br>12,601<br>2,655<br>2,035<br>7,093<br>25,106<br>20,895<br>£70,385<br>2025<br>£<br>20,046<br>706<br>19,408<br>5,059<br>£45,219<br>2025<br>£<br>147,782<br>1,918<br>82<br>£149,782|2024<br>£<br>11,976<br>6,941<br>1,756<br>6,137<br>1,500<br>250<br>260,000<br>392,205|
|---|---|---|
|||£680,765|
|||2024<br>£<br>21,053<br>736<br>18,118<br>5,027|
|||£44,934|
|||2024<br>£<br>146,452<br>2,639<br>77|
|||£149,168|



19 



|**Note 5 - Raising Funds**<br>Grants<br>£<br>**Cost of raising funds**<br>Fund raising<br>-<br>**Note 6 - Expenditure**<br>Grants<br>(see note 8)<br>£<br>**Charitable activities**<br>Grant making<br>164,271<br>Cost of publishing magazines -<br>£164,271|Direct<br>Costs<br>£<br>-<br>Direct<br>Costs<br>£<br>-<br>35,982<br>£35,982|Support<br>Costs<br>(see note 7)<br>£<br>£8,012<br>Support<br>Costs<br>(see note 7)<br>£<br>16,026<br>33,720<br>£49,746|Total Costs<br>2025<br>£<br>£8,012<br>Total Costs<br>2025<br>£<br>180,297<br>69,702<br>£249,999|
|---|---|---|---|



20 



## **Note 7 - Support Costs** 

|Staff<br>Other<br>Governance<br>Costs<br>Costs<br>Costs<br>(see note 10) (see below(see note 9)<br>£ £<br>£<br>Costs of raising funds<br>Fundraising<br>5,156<br>907<br>1,949<br>Charitable activities<br>Grant making<br>10,314<br>1,813<br>3,899<br>Cost of publishing magazines<br>27,100<br>2,721<br>3,899<br>£42,570<br>£5,441<br>£9,747<br>Other costs comprise<br>2025<br>£<br>Postage<br>500<br>Stationery<br>420<br>Telephone<br>179<br>Honoraria<br>1,250<br>Cost of books sold<br>1,068<br>Calendars<br>157<br>Computer costs<br>1,321<br>Travelling expenses<br>153<br>Bank charges<br>393<br>£5,441|Total<br>Costs<br>2025<br>£<br>8,012<br>16,026<br>33,720<br>£57,758|Total<br>Costs<br>2024<br>£<br>9,920<br>13,098<br>32,068|
|---|---|---|
|||£55,086|
|||2024<br>£<br>590<br>620<br>242<br>1,394<br>1,160<br>155<br>299<br>426|
|||£4,886|



21 



## **Note 10 - Staff Costs and Trustees Remuneration** 

No trustee received any remuneration for his services as trustee.  Eight members of the Committee o the Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society were reimbursed expenses incurred in travelling amouning to £1,999 (2024 - £1138) 

Salaries were paid to the editors of the Gospel Standard, Friendly Companion, and Perception as follows: 

|||2025|2024|
|---|---|---|---|
|||£|£|
||G D Buss|6,710|6,600|
||M J Hyde|1,650||
||G TenBroeke|3,595|3,929|
||T J Parish|2,400|2,400|
|Staff Costs||||



Salaries were paid to 2 (2024 - 2) part-time staff in addition to the editors 

|Total salaries<br>Social security costs<br>Split as follows:<br>Cost of generating funds<br>Fundraising<br>Charitable activities<br>Grant making<br>Cost of publishing magazines<br>Governance|£<br>42,570<br>£42,570<br>£<br>4,688<br>2,344<br>21,474<br>14,064<br>£42,570|£<br>40,241|
|---|---|---|
|||£40,241|
|||£<br>4,490<br>2,245<br>19,829<br>13,677|
|||£40,241|



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## **Note 12 - Investments** 

|**Note 12 - Investments**<br>Balance as at 1 January 2025<br>Acquisitions during the year<br>Disposals during the year<br>Unrealised  profit/ loss during the year<br>Balance at 31 December 2025<br>**Investments at Cost**<br>COIF Charities Investment Fund Shares<br>COIF Charity Deposits<br>Cambridge & Counties Bank<br>Close Brothers<br>National Savings Income Bonds<br>Redwood Bank<br>United Trust Bank|2025<br>£<br>2,975,986<br>1,837,649<br>-1,598,466<br>-136<br>£3,215,033<br>2025<br>£<br>1,011<br>23,309<br>942,843<br>932,550<br>70,000<br>272,326<br>971,296<br>£3,213,335|2024<br>£<br>2,537,035<br>1,593,519<br>-1,154,631<br>63|
|---|---|---|
|||£2,975,986|
|||2024<br>£<br>1,011<br>767,495<br>915,714<br>260,102<br>1,029,833|
|||£2,974,155|



The investment in COIF Charities Investment Fund is managed by an independent body of trustees w experience in investing on behalf of charities and is readily realisable. 

Investments in Cambridge & Counties Bank, Close Brothers, Redwood bank and 

United Trust Bank mature in 2026 

## **Note 13 - Stocks** 

The society no longer purchases a supply of paper but Orphans Press Limited purchase the paper and charge an inclusive price for the magazines. 

Envelopes and labels used to despatch the magazines are purchased in bulk and a stock remains on hand at the end of the year.  This is valued at cost. 

|2025|2024|
|---|---|
|£|£|



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|Stock of envelopes and labels<br>Stock of stamps<br>**Note 14 - Debtors**<br>Income tax repayable<br>Interest receivable<br>Prepayment<br>**Note 15 - Short Term Deposits**<br>National Savings Income Bonds<br>COIF Charities Deposit<br>Nationwide Building Society<br>**Note 16 - Creditors: amounts falling due within**<br>**one year**<br>Accrued expenses<br>Magazine subscriptions for 2026<br>Income received in advance|2025<br>£<br>305<br>276<br>£581<br>2025<br>£<br>1,767<br>67,625<br>1,200<br>£70,592<br>2025<br>£<br>32,515<br>£32,515<br>2025<br>£<br>10,264<br>22,934<br>370|2024<br>£<br>200<br>116|
|---|---|---|
|||£316|
|||2024<br>£<br>845<br>57,632<br>2,412|
|||£60,889|
|||2024<br>£<br>70,000<br>22,216<br>31,830|
|||£124,046|
|||2024<br>£<br>11,238<br>22,557<br>1,075|



24 



£32,515 

£124,046 

|**Note 16 - Creditors: amounts falling due within**<br>**one year**<br>Accrued expenses<br>Magazine subscriptions for 2026<br>Income received in advance<br>**Deferred Income - Magazine subscriptions  2026**<br>Balance brought forward at 1 January 2025<br>Amounts released during the year|2025<br>£<br>10,264<br>22,934<br>370<br>£33,568<br>2025<br>£<br>22,257<br>-22,257|2024<br>£<br>11,238<br>22,557<br>1,075|
|---|---|---|
|||£34,870|
|||2024<br>£<br>22,690<br>-22,690|



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## **Note - 17 Movement in Funds** 

|General Fund<br>Designated Fund<br>Gospel Standard Magazine<br>Fund<br>Restricted Fund<br>Gadsby Memorial Christmas<br>Fund|Balance at<br>01.01.2025<br>£<br>3,252,018<br>67,060<br>89,331|Incoming<br>Resources<br>£<br>233,879<br>31,507<br>265,386|Resources<br>Expended<br>£<br>-221,060<br>-36,950<br>-258,010|Unrealised<br>loss<br>£<br>-136<br>-136|Transf<br>8,<br>-8,|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||3,408,409|||||



## **Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society General Fund** 

The purpose of this fund which is an amalgamation of The Gospel Standard Aid Society, The Gospel Standard Poor Relief Society and The Gospel Standard Convalescent Fund is the relief in need, whether occasioned by financial hardship, sickness, infirmity, disability or old age of Strict Baptist Ministers, their widows and dependents; and or members of Strict Baptist Churches; and or persons who have regularly attended religious worship for at least three years at Strict Baptist Chapels. And also the augmentation of the working funds of needy Strict Baptist Churches in futherance of their religious and other charitable purposes. 

## **Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund** 

The Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund is a linked charity with charity number 209373-1 The purpose of this fund is to: 

- a) Provide extra comforts at Christmas for needy friends of any age who are members of or regular attenders at Gospel Standard Strict Baptist places of worship, and 

- b) Give financial assistance in cases of need which are not eligible for benefit from The Gospel Standard Aid and Poor Relief Society. 

## **Gospel Standard Magazine Fund** 

The fund is responsible for the publication of the Gospel Standard magazine, the Friendly Companion magazine and Perception magazine. 

26 



|Investments<br>£<br>General Fund<br>3,079,937<br>Gospel Standard Magazine Fund<br>69,713<br>Gadsby Memorial Christmas Fund<br>65,383<br>£3,215,033|Current<br>Assets<br>£<br>197,480<br>17,299<br>19,405<br>£234,184|Current<br>Liabilities<br>£<br>4,536<br>28,132<br>900<br>£33,568|2025<br>£<br>3,272,881<br>58,880<br>83,888<br>£3,415,649|2024<br>£<br>3,252,019<br>67,060<br>89,330|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||£3,408,409|



## **Note 19 - Related Party transactions** 

There are two common  Trustees between the Society and the Gospel Standard Trust. The Trust assi with despatch of publications.During the yesar the Society reimbursed the Trust with despatch costs totalling £18,988. 

In furthering the objectives of the charity, the following grants were paid in 2025 to the following individu who are also trustees of the Society: 

M J Hyde: one grant of £500 

T J Parish: one grant of £400 

Grants totalling £600 were paid to Jireh Chapel Tenterden towards the remuneration of the Pastor of the Chapel, G W Hyde, who is also a Trustee of the Society. 

Grants totalling £1,450 were paid to J Woodhams who is married to the granddaughter of J H Cottingto 

27