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2025-09-30-accounts

emivux.com ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2025

Contents

SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY

Patron

HIS MAJESTY KING CHARLES III

President H F Whitbread, Esq

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2025

SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY

Established in 1878 to promote the Old English Breed of Cart Horse

Governing Document: Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association

3 Board Chairman’s Report 4 Chief Executive’s Report 4 Chair of Council’s Report 5 Notice of 2026 AGM 5 Minutes of 2025 AGM 10 Report of the Trustees 13 Council, Committees and Officials 15 Independent Examiner’s Report 17 Balance Sheet 19 Cash Flow Statement 20 Notes to the Financial Statements

Election of Council Members

30

Shire Horse of the Year Qualifying Shows

37

Advert for the show

39

Company Limited by Guarantee

Registered in England – Certificate of Incorporation 12383

Registered Charity No. 210619

Registered Office:

The Old Dairy, Rockingham Castle & Park, Rockingham, Market Harborough, LE16 8TH

Tel: 01536 771 611

Email: info@shire-horse.org.uk

Chief Executive: Victoria Clayton

Shire Horse Society

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Chair of Board’s Report

A year comes around so quickly these days, and I welcome the opportunity to say a few words on what has been a fairly turbulent time.

This time last year we were planning for our National Show at Stafford. All those there enjoyed the atmosphere, and it went off really well. I was very pleased to see the entries over the three days and felt proud to be associated with the Shire Horse Society. We had a great showing season at the affiliated shows culminating in HOYS being the grand finale for the breed.

During the year we have co-opted two members to our Board, and I

look forward to working with them during the coming year. Our plans for the next three years have been put together, and a lot of thought has been put into this.

Our main focus remains on the breeding of the Shire horse and its preservation. SPARKS continues to gather momentum and working with others we continue to look to find ways to enhance our knowledge on genetics which in turn will be able to guide us in the future.

We are pleased to put on an additional National Show this year at Rockingham which will be during the summer showing season. We feel it

will be good for the breed to have this additional shopwindow which will attract more visitors, breeders and members. Do come and be part of the day.

I would like to thank Victoria and her team, our Committee Chairs and their teams for all the work they do for the Society which makes it all worthwhile; and I wish you all the best for 2026.

Helen Thomas, Chair of Board

Chief Executive’s Report

Welcome to 2026, the Year of the Horse! When sitting down to write this, I sat back and took stock of the last decade, or so. It is very hard to believe that 2026 marks the start of my tenth year with the Society. Time flies when you are enjoying yourself!

Looking at the last ten years, we have seen change and adaption, an office move, new initiatives like the Heavy Horse Camp, a global pandemic, different show venues, a governance restructure, the sad loss of a cumulative number of 135 members/breeders, the introduction of SPARKS, greater levels of support for breeders, fundraising challenges and greater engagement. Above all, I hope everyone in that time has had fun either with the breed or because of it.

Granted; it has not all been just fun – and I do say a heartfelt thank you

to the members and their families who support the breed in whichever way they can. You all play your part in helping to keep the breed alive, prominent and relevant.

January in the office marks “silly season” and no two days are the same. I am hopeful that I will see many of you at the regional open meetings that are scheduled during the first quarter of the year. It is hoped that the meetings are seen as a positive move to meet more of our members regionally at least once a year.

The new format of National Shows starts this year; we are on countdown for the National Spring Show at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre. It reverts to a ‘breed show’ as what many of the members requested; please support the show with your horses and entries. Without the horses present, we have

no show. Increased appearance money is available for all, with stallions attracting £200 per horse and as they say, ‘you’ve got to be in it, to win it!’

The National Summer Show will feature a valuable £1,000 Turnout Championship, a new National Foal Championship and a Supreme Brood Mare Championship, worth £1,000 to the winner!

Following the recent members survey and feedback, the Board have released a Code of Conduct for Council. It is closely aligned with the Board’s own Code of Conduct and whilst effective from January; newly elected/reelected members are asked to sign a copy on election.

In association with this, within this document, as always you will see the CVs of dedicated and passionate

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members who are standing for election/re-election to Council. There are some exceptional candidates, seventeen in total for twelve spaces; and for the first time in a long time, new candidates outnumber those standing for re-election.

Choosing up to twelve will not be easy and will cause some head scratching.

Please read the CVs carefully and use your very valuable votes.

As I always state, the office team of Angela, Sue, Carol, Laura and I are here to help and along with Council members to encourage newcomers and new members to strive to preserve, promote and protect the horse that put the ‘Great’ into Britain.

On behalf of the Shire Horse Society, the Board and Council, a final thank you for your ongoing support and love of the breed.

Victoria Clayton, Chief Executive

Chair of Council’s Report

It is with great pleasure that I compile my first report as Chair of Council. When taking up the role I always knew it would be a challenging position, Council has some very strong personalities who have their opinions on the way forward for the Shire Horse Society. The debate and discussion are passionate and enthusiastic and is the only way to ensure the best decisions are made. I promised that I would represent the Council at Board meetings and this I have ensured has happened.

One question I am repeatedly asked is ‘why can’t the Society do more for the breeders?’ and I have responded by asking for ideas and suggestions. I rarely get any ideas back and I have to say that these suggestions should not be based purely on endless financial support alone. Please do speak to me if you have ideas you wish for me to take forward, or indeed your local Council representative.

The Council is the engine room of the Society, and the three Committees have continued to do some fantastic work in meeting our objectives. I would like to thank the Chairs and their committee members for their hard work and continued support.

2026 sees a change to our annual

show, we have a reduced programme for the Spring Show in March and a spectacular show in August, so all aspects of the original show is included. This decision was necessary because of the rising expenditure of keeping the show at Stafford each Spring which was unsustainable. I think that this new format which is supported by Council and the Show Committee will be a great success, I hope that members and exhibitors alike get behind these shows and fully support them. I know that Victoria and her staff are working tirelessly alongside the Show Committee towards positive outcomes.

The Editing Committee are focusing on our breeding programme SPARKS and the continued longevity of the Shire horse, whilst the Training and Education Committee have recently put on two judges’ seminars which were on the whole received well. At this point I would also like to thank Yvonne Simmons for her work in organising the Heavy Horse Camp which goes from strength to strength.

I will continue to work as a member of the Board and report honestly to Council, it is my opinion that the Board is totally supportive of Council and always receives suggestions made by the respective Chairs in a

positive way. The current Board has a cross section of expertise including breeders, financial experts, charity experts, and legal expertise. This combination of people is, I believe doing great work in supporting our long-term plans for the Society to ensure the breed continues for many decades and hopefully centuries to come.

I ask that during 2026 we all pull together so that through healthy debate and discussion we ensure the Society remains in the strong position that I feel we are currently in.

I wish to express my support for Victoria and her staff in the Rockingham office who I have now had the opportunity to work closely with for some time and witnessed their dedication and hard work, whilst they may some days be stretched, their smiles and ‘can do’ attitude is much appreciated.

Together this Society remains strong, and we must remain focused on the Shire horse.

Paul Bower Chair of Council

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

4

Notice of AGM

Notice is hereby given that the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of the Members of the Shire Horse Society will be held on Friday 20th March 2026 at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, Middlewich Road, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0SR at 4.30pm.

AGENDA:

1. WELCOME ADDRESS.

2. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE.

3. MINUTES OF THE LAST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 7TH MARCH 2025.

4. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES.

5. RECEIVE REPORT OF TRUSTEES & STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS.

6. ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS.

7. ELECTION OF BOARD MEMBERS AND HONORARY TREASURER.

8. INDEPENDENT EXAMINER.

9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS.

By Order of the Council Victoria Clayton, Chief Executive

AGM Minutes

Minutes of the Shire Horse Society’s Annual General Meeting held on Friday 7th March 2025 in The Boden Room, Staffordshire County Showground, Stafford, at 4:30pm.

PRESENT:

Mrs H Thomas (Chair of Board) Mr T J Yates (Chair of Council) Mr D Clarke (Honorary Treasurer)

Mr S J Peacock (Chair of Show Committee)

Mrs Y Simmons (Chair of Training & Education Committee) Mr D Baker CFW (Accountants LLP)

MEMBERS ATTENDING:

Mrs L Allman, Miss E Archer, Mrs D Badger, Mr D Billingsley, Mr P Bower, Mr P R Boyes, Mrs R Boyes, Mrs H Brand, Mr R Brand, Mr R Brewster, Mr P Bundock, Miss R Burgess, Mr M Burks, Mr M Butterworth, Miss A Chetwood, Mr J Clarke, Mr R Clarke, Miss J-A Clubley, Mr C Dawson, Mrs C Fairbairn, Mr J Fairbairn, Mr L M Fountain, Mr J Fryer, Mrs V A Giles, Miss H Gray, Mr R Griffith, Mr I Heleine, Mr J Hick, Mr Chris Horler, Mr Colin Horler, Mrs L

Horler, Mr M Horler, Mrs T Horler, Mr R Huxster, Mr D Iles, Mr C K Kettles, Mr M King, Mr D Lambert, Mr S Ledsham, Mr S Leedham, Mr G Livesey, Mr S Livesey, Mrs E Macey-Bracken, Mr C Malkin, Mrs J Malkin, Mr M J Martin, Mr J W McIntyre, Mrs B Moore, Mrs Jane Muntz Torres, Mr S F Neighbour, Mrs D E Nulty, Mr P Nulty, Mr C Paulsson, Mrs H Preece, Mr G J Rawlins, Mr F M Richardson, Mr S Roper, Mr J Robinson, Mr H Roetgerink, Mr D Sherwood,

Mr P Shipman, Mr P Simmons, Ms A Soroko, Mr J H Stephenson, Miss R Taylor, Miss C M Threlfall, Mr J Verhoeven, Mr C Vetter, Mrs K Vetter, Mrs M Ward, Mr A Wareing, Mr A J Wass, Mrs P L Wass, Mrs J R Wells, Mr A Whetton, Mr C Wilkins, Mr P Willis, Mr B A Winn, Mrs J Wordsworth, Mr D Worthington, Mrs M Worthington, Mr D J Yates, Mrs S Yates and Dr H Ziman.

IN ATTENDANCE:

Miss V L Clayton (Chief Executive)

Mrs S M Fox (Administration)

Miss A Whiteway (Registrations)

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1. WELCOME ADDRESS

In the absence of the President, Mr H Whitbread, the Chair of the Board, Mrs H Thomas welcomed members to the Annual General Meeting and confirmed the meeting was being recorded for the purpose of accurate minutes. Those eligible to vote had been handed a voting paper and were asked to fill this in at the relevant point when advised by the Chair.

The Chair was pleased to confirm that His Royal Highness King Charles III had agreed to become the Society’s Patron. The Royal Family have been connected to the Shire Horse Society for many years, and the Society appreciates their commitment and involvement.

The Chair explained that the Society’s vision is to be the leading global authority in the preservation, promotion, and welfare of Shire horses, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts dedicated to safeguarding this iconic breed for future generations.

The core values are.

Heritage: respect for the rich history and heritage of the Shire horse breed. Integrity: commitment to honesty, transparency, and ethical practices. Excellence: pursuit of excellence in all aspects of breed preservation, promotion, and welfare.

Community: fostering a supportive and inclusive community of Shire horse enthusiasts.

Innovation: embrace innovation and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of the breed.

The Strategic Goals of The Shire Horse Society are:

Breed Preservation and Promotion – to enhance efforts to preserve the genetic diversity and improve the visibility of Shire horses.

Member Engagement and Retention – to strengthen member engagement and retention strategies to cultivate a vibrant community of Shire horse enthusiasts.

Education and Outreach – to expand educational initiatives to raise awareness about the history, characteristics, and care of Shire horses.

Welfare and Well-being – to prioritise the welfare and well-being of Shire horses through advocacy, research, and support services.

Financial Sustainability – to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the Shire Horse Society.

The Society is now working on a threeyear plan so it can further the aims and the objectives of the Society in a planned, resourced way to ensure that we lay good, clear foundations for the future.

2. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Mr N Andrews, Mr H Bedford, Mr W Bedford, Mr Wm Bedford, Mr J Burks, Ms J Domhill, Miss C Eagle, Mr A Franklin, Mrs L Froggatt, Mr T Froggatt, Mr J Goodwin, Miss J Jones, Mrs E Lambert, Mr W J Medhurst, Mr A Peacock, Mr R Pritchett, Mr D Shardlow, Mrs W Toomer-Harlow, Mr T E Whittaker and Mr J Worthington.

3. MINUTES OF THE LAST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 8TH MARCH 2024.

The Minutes had been circulated to all members in the Annual Report and Accounts 2024. Mr D J Yates proposed the Minutes should be signed as a true and correct record. Mr P Bower seconded the proposal. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

4. MATTERS ARISING FROM

THE MINUTES

The Chair asked if there were any matters arising from the Minutes. There were no matters arising from the Minutes.

5. RECEIVE REPORT OF THE COUNCIL AND STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS

The Honorary Treasurer, Mr D Clarke took members through the accounts for the year ending 30th September 2024 as set out in the Annual Report & Accounts.

Mr Clarke talked members through the income and expenditure.

Income: Donations and legacies were reduced from £463,287 in 2023 to £279,081 in 2024. Membership subscriptions remain consistent at £42,186. The amount from the direct charitable surplus rose to £150,725 from £131,790. Other trading activities rose to £17,131 from £7,209 and the investment income rose to £49,817 from £28,636.

Expenditure: Raising funds increased to £80,881 from £67,064

Charitable activities (Shire Horse Show) cost £103,767 and these have risen to £142,382. The stud book fees and sales and service books have risen to £132,867 from £125,266. Membership subscriptions costs are from £36,135 to £38,945. Support costs are £62,068 from £57,062. The direct charitable purpose is £26,521 and this is lower than the previous year. Heavy Horse Camp decreased from £13,555 to £10,641. Total costs £494,305 (2023: £433,579).

Net gains on investments of £955 (2023: £29,056) Total funds carried forward £1,466,613 (2023: £1,421,023)

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

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Balance Sheet

Fixed Assets £708,147 (2023: £704,686)

Current Assets £785,795 (2023: £738,006)

Investments rose and noted that £780,000 was moved to CCLA Investments.

Creditors (£27,329) (2023: (£21,669)) Total assets less current liabilities £1,466,613 (2023: £1,421,023).

The Hon. Treasurer reported that the Society’s investment advisor Mary Foster was unable to attend the AGM but had sent in a description of how the investments were doing. Mr Clarke read this out to the members.

Ms Foster reported that during 2024 it was decided to appoint CCLA, a well-known and respected charity specialist fund manager, to manage the Shire Horse Society portfolio. CCLA is the largest charity specialist fund manager in the UK and looks after funds for churches, charities, and local authorities. It has approximately £14.5bn under its management.

The Society’s investments at CCLA are split between two funds, one a deposit account (just over £500,000) which offers above market rates of interest and the COIF Fund (approximately £670,000) which invests primarily in equities and is intended to provide long term investment returns for the Society.

Over the past twelve months, the COIF Fund has risen just over 5% (approximately 0.8% in the last quarter) while the Deposit Fund has returned a similar amount. The deposit fund is now (as of 25th February 2025) paying 4.41% highly competitive rates offered by the banks.

The Hon. Treasurer read out the

‘Outlook from CCLA.’

“During December, several central banks dialled back their outlook for rate cuts for 2025. That slowing pace of rate cuts disappointed many investors and weighed on share prices but what is more important: in 2024, central banks lowered inflation without causing a recession. That ‘soft landing’ is a reason to look at shares constructively.

The US economy, for example, grew 3.1% (annualised) in the third quarter of 2024, and it is set to benefit from Trump’s promised tax cuts in 2025. Even in case of a trade war, the closed US economy can continue to do well. And US companies’ earnings are already growing faster than those of their G7 peers.

It is true that, as share prices have risen, so has volatility. The principle risk, in our view, is that earnings momentum slows. As the fourth quarter showed, it is even possible for companies to deliver earnings that investors were expecting but see their share prices decline. For that reason, we do not invest ‘blindly’ across the board but continue to be selective.”

The Chair of Board, Mrs H Thomas invited members to ask questions of which there were none. Mr J Hick proposed that the Accounts for the year ending 2024 should be adopted and Dr H Ziman seconded the proposal. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

At this point, Mr R Griffith highlighted an error in the accounts on page 21 relating to the Horserace Betting Levy Board’s grant in 2023. Mr Griffith referred members back to the 2023 accounts where the figure was outlined as £35,000 and not £30,000 as shown in the current accounts. The Hon. Treasurer replied

that this is an error and apologised.

Mr R Griffith also asked what had happened to the semen storage payment for 2024 (page 30) as this is not listed in the accounts. The Chief Executive confirmed the Society still held these in storage and payments are still being made.

6. ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS

Mr D Baker from CFW Accountants LLP who act as the Scrutineers read the names out.

The Candidates duly elected were:

Mr C Horler (149) Mr R Griffith (147) Mr G Rawlins (145) Mr J Worthington (143) Mrs D Badger (142) Mrs S Flintham (135) Mr F M Richardson (133) Mr Wm Bedford (129) Mr S Ledsham (124) Miss C Eagle (115) Mr J Burks (112) Mr M Martin (110)

The Council members were duly elected and congratulated. Grateful thanks were recorded to Mr D Baker and CFW Accountants LLP for their assistance.

The Chair extended the Society’s sincere gratitude to Mr T J Yates who retires at the AGM from both the Council and Board. A round of applause was made to thank Mr Yates for all his work.

Mr Yates replied that he had enjoyed his time on the Council despite there being one or two hiccups along the way but overall, he had enjoyed his time. At this point Mr Yates handed his Chair of Council badge to Mr Paul Bower and wished him all the best.

www.shire-horse.org.uk 7

Mr P Bower thanked Mr Yates and said he had been his understudy for the past 18 months on the Board and he is looking forward to the challenges ahead.

The Chair confirmed that Mr Bower, as Chair of Council now automatically has a seat on the Board of Trustees.

7. ELECTION OF HON. TREASURER AND TRUSTEES

The Chair informed members that Mr Huw Murphy has resigned as a Trustee owing to other commitments and does not have the time and energy to devote to the work of the Board. The Chair thanked Mr Murphy for his time on the Board and wished him every success in the future.

Mr J Robinson has agreed to be ViceChair of the Board of Trustees.

Moving to the elections, Mr David Clarke, Hon. Treasurer has been in the post for two years and during his time with the Society has improved financial reporting and procedures. Mr Clarke is an accountant with over twenty years’ experience working across a full spectrum of organisations. Mr Clarke offers himself for re-election and Mrs H Thomas proposed that Mr D Clarke is re-elected as Hon. Treasurer and Trustee, and this was seconded by Miss E Archer. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

The Chair stated that it is important that a charity has Trustees committed to their task and with skills, knowledge, and experience that the charity needs. Trustees play an essential role in the governance of charities. They bring valuable professional experience to the charity and help ensure that charities are managed and through the appointment of executive staff.

In recruiting new Trustees, existing Trustees must act in the best interest

of the charity. The composition of, and balance of skills on the Board has been considered and addressed and the perceived gaps identified were of a professional nature in areas which have been a concern and or cost to the Society in recent years.

The Chair added to this end the Society has had the pleasure of working with both a Stockbroker and a Solicitor.

The Chair outlined to members that Mary Foster was co-opted to the Board in 2024 and has spent her career in investment banking and now farms with her husband in Suffolk. Mary works as Trustee for various charities, helping devise and manage investment portfolios to ensure and grow funds available. Ms Foster is also a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Farmers and also the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars, where she also chairs the Finance Committee.

The Chair stated that she had enjoyed working with Ms Foster and proposed that she be elected as a Trustee of the Shire Horse Society. Mr P Bower seconded this. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

Mr R Griffith at this point asked why Mr D Clarke is up for re-election after two years as he thought it was a three-year term. The Chair confirmed that the Hon. Treasurer is re-elected every year and the rest of the Board every three years. Mr Griffith asked if Ms M Foster and Ms A Soroko were in attendance at the meeting. Confirmed that Ms Soroko was but Ms Foster was unable to attend.

The Chair outlined to the members that Ms Anna Soroko was co-opted onto the Board in 2024. Ms Soroko is a solicitor and has worked as an energy lawyer internationally for over forty years. Ms Soroko has

been an elected director of the East of England Energy Group for twelve years and a member of the advisory board of the University of East Anglia Business School for several years. Ms Soroko has also had several articles and papers published and spoken at numerous conferences. Ms Soroko has had a lifelong interest in and a love of horses, and has competed at dressage, showjumping, and eventing in both the US and UK and currently owns three eventers.

The Chair proposed that Ms Anna Soroko is elected as a Trustee to the Shire Horse Society. This was seconded by Mr S Ledsham. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

Ms A Soroko was invited to address the meeting and said it was a pleasure to be at the meeting and if elected she will do her best in assisting the Shire Horse Society in achieving its aims in the future and hopefully save the Society some legal fees and expenses. Ms Soroko added that she looks forward to meeting members in the future.

8. APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

Mr M Burks proposed that CFW Accountants LLP should be re-appointed as the Society’s Independent Examiners. Mr P Bower seconded this. Grateful thanks were recorded to CFW Accountants LLP for their work. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

9. ELECTRONIC AGM MAILING FROM 2026

The Chair explained that the proposal to members at the AGM is to decide whether or not the Society, should reduce its costs of printing and postage by sending out the AGM notices and Annual Report and Accounts via email instead of by post.

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

8

Mr D Iles asked if a member did not have a computer/email address would they still receive a copy in the post. The Chair confirmed that they would receive this in the post. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form.

The proxy voting forms were collected by Mr D Baker from CFW Accountants LLP and Miss E Archer who both counted the votes.

10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Proxy Voting

The results of the proxy votes were read out as follows.

For Against Abstain
Receive the AGM Minutes 118 2 5
Receive the Annual Report & Accounts 119 1 5
Re-appoint CFW Accountants 123 1 1
Mary Foster be elected 83 28 13
Anna Soroko be elected 81 28 15
David Clarke be re-elected
as Hon. Treasurer and Trustee 118 6 1
From 1st January 2026 Annual Report &
Accounts be sent electronically 77 37 4

There were no further matters relating to the accounts and the Chair formally closed the Annual General Meeting at 4:55pm. An Open Meeting followed the Annual General Meeting.

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Report of the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements For the year ended 30 September 2025 For Shire Horse Society

CFW Accountants LLP Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers 3 Weekley Wood Close Kettering Northamptonshire NN14 1UQ

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 00012383 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 210619

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

Report of the Trustees

The Board of Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 30 September

  1. The trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” (FRS 102) as applicable to charities in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity, in accordance with the applicable law and the United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice - UK GAAP), including FRS 102; The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES OBJECTIVES AND AIMS

The Society’s principal objective is the improvement and promotion of the English Cart Horse, more particularly, the Shire Horse, and to this end, maintaining a Stud Book in which are entered the names of all registered Shire Horses complying with the conditions for the time being applied by the Society.

To meet the objective the Society has established an expert Judging Panel, introduced a comprehensive system of DNA testing for all Pedigree animals and devised a Stallion inspection scheme in order to ensure that male animals used for breeding meet strict conformation and health criteria and introduced training courses.

The Society is generously assisted in its breeding policies by a grant from the Horserace Betting Levy Board which itself sets strict conditions for grant payment. The grant aided work is regularly reviewed by both parties in order to ensure its effectiveness.

The Charity has due regard during the year to the guidance published by the Charities Commission on public benefit.

NATIONAL SHIRE HORSE SHOW 2025

The National Show once again returned to Bingley Hall, Stafford. Numbers in the showing classes were down on 2024 but quality remained high. In 2026 the National Shows will see a change of format and will be split into a Spring and Summer event. The Spring will host the breeding classes at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, Cheshire and the Summer will host a full range of classes including the ridden and turnout elements, as well as in hand and youth classes.

EXPORTS

accurate export figures.

MERCHANDISING AND MARKETING

The Society attended 30 events and shows, equalling 60 days promotions including the two foals shows and four demonstration events in 2025. There has been significant promotion where possible and use of the website for sales of merchandise.

STALLION PREMIUM SCHEME

The Editing Committee have removed the premium scheme in its entirety. Other funding and grants will be given to breeders from 2023 onwards.

SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY APPROVED CENTRES

The approved centres offer visitor experience and training facilities. The Trustees continue to consider the options available and develop a programme of activities that yield the maximum educational, training and promotional benefits for the Society and supporters.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES NATIONAL SHIRE HORSE TRUST FUND

The financial objective of the Society remains to increase the accumulated fund at a rate not less than inflation for the current year thus ensuring that the purchasing power of the fund is maintained. The financial attitude of the Society remains to pursue a break even position financially, without the historic dependence on donations or legacies. By doing so, any excess income can be utilised in a more beneficial way for the breed generally.

The Trust Fund is used firstly and most importantly to further the Society’s charitable objectives including the promotion of the Shire Horse both at home and overseas and to also meet the Society’s operating costs. In addition, the Society is required to contribute to the Stallion Fund at a level of 20% of the funding received from the Horserace Betting Levy Board. The Society’s contribution is taken from the Trust Fund.

Specific numbers are of horses exported are no longer recorded. Records from Stud Book entries and overseas attendance at the National Show indicate that the demand for quality horses abroad continues to be strong. Society members do not always notify the Society of exports therefore it is difficult to maintain

www.shire-horse.org.uk

FINANCIAL REVIEW

The financial statements show an overall increase in net funds of £28,699 (2024: increase £45,590) as shown on the Statement of Financial Activities.

The Society received legacy income totalling £228,263 (2024: £182,017). This source of revenue remains important to the Society in improving the capital base and investment income. The Board of Trustees has agreed it is not appropriate to rely on legacy income. The Society’s investments at the balance sheet date were reporting unrealised losses of £28,870 (2024: gain of £955).

The market value of the Society’s investments at the end of the year was £671,738 (2024: £688,811).

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT SOCIETY GOVERNANCE

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee as defined by the Companies Act 2006.

The Society’s governing document was reviewed and the adoption of new Articles of Association took place on 14th December 2021. The Charity is governed by Board of Trustees who meet at least four times a year. The Board with the support of the Council has established a committee structure to deal directly with specific aspects of the Society’s affairs.

These Board and committees currently are:

Investment returns saw a decrease in the year at £19,390 (2024: £27,954). Additionally interest received on the investments increased to £25,507 (2024: £21,863).

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Prospects, as ever for 2025 remain increasingly challenging, but with net assets valued at £1,495,312 (2024: £1,466,613) the Society is well placed to continue to assist Shire Breeders and encourage new owners.

RISK MANAGEMENT

The Board of Trustees will continue to review the systems that are in place to mitigate the Society’s exposure to major risks.

RESERVES POLICY

The Society maintains a prudent level of reserves to generate income to help fund the activities that further the Society’s charitable aims and objectives. This income is intended to counter large fluctuations in irregular income such as legacies and help fund the National Show.

The Trustees continue to maintain a greater proportion of reserves in short term cash deposits to protect the Society from the volatile nature of equity and bond markets.

The BOARD OF TRUSTEES dealing with financial matters and the day-to-day operation of the Society along with the CEO.

The EDITING COMMITTEE are responsible for all matters relating to the Stud Book, breeding programme and pedigrees.

The TRAINING AND EDUCATION COMMITTEE are responsible for the education of the public about the Shire horse, running training events and programmes for the membership and the appointment, training and maintenance of an expert and active panel of Judges.

The SHOW COMMITTEE are responsible for all matters relating to the running of the National Show.

The DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE deal with all matters concerning the conduct of Members.

All Council and Committee members are volunteers who receive no payment for their services. The National Show in March, is also run, in part, by Stewards who give their time in a voluntary capacity.

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

The Society is no longer required to undertake a full audit, CFW Accountants LLP have undertaken an independent examiner’s review and their report is enclosed.

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

Council, Committees and Officials

RETIRE 2026

W Bedford, Yorkshire M Bedford, Yorkshire Miss A Chetwood, Cheshire J Fairbairn, Northumberland L M Fountain, Derbyshire J Holder, Gloucestershire S J Peacock, Essex D Shardlow, Cheshire P Shipman, Leicestershire Mrs Y Simmons, Shropshire D Worthington, Cheshire D Yates, Derbyshire

RETIRE 2027

P Bower, Essex M Burks, Lincolnshire R Clarke, Northamptonshire J C Etches, Derbyshire Mrs D E Nulty, Cheshire Mrs H Preece, Cheshire D Roberts, Devon Mrs W Toomer-Harlow, Essex T E Whittaker, Cheshire B A Winn, Lincolnshire

RETIRE 2028

Mrs D Badger, West Midlands Wm Bedford, North Yorkshire J Burks, Lincolnshire Miss C Eagle, Suffolk Mrs S Flintham, Nottinghamshire R Griffith, Gwynedd C Horler, Somerset S Ledsham, Shropshire M Martin, Cumbria G Rawlins, Staffordshire F M Richardson, Yorkshire

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mrs H Thomas (Board Chair), Mrs M Foster, Ms A Soroko, Mr D Clarke, Mr Simon Livesey, Mr J Hick, Mr J E Robinson, Mr P Bower (Council Chair).

C Eagle, Mr R Griffith, Mr M Richardson, Mr M Bingham (co-opt), Miss S Jones (co-opt).

SHOW COMMITTEE

Mr S J Peacock (Chairman), Mr A Peacock (Chief Steward), Miss A Chetwood, Mr C Horler, Mr G Rawlins, Mrs S Flintham, Mr M Fountain, Mr M Martin, Mr T Brown (co-opt), Mr M Rendle (co-opt).

DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE

The President, two Past Presidents or past deputies, two past chairs, a solicitor.

HONORARY TREASURER

Mr D Clarke.

BANKERS

Barclays Bank plc, Church Street, Peterborough.

ACCOUNTANTS AND INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS

CFW Accountants LLP, 3 Weekley Wood Close, Kettering, NN14 1UQ.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Victoria Clayton MRICS FAAV.

STUD BOOK AND REGISTRATIONS

Miss Angela Whiteway.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered Company number: 00012383 (Eng and Wales)

Registered Charity number: 210619

Registered Office: The Old Dairy Rockingham Castle and Park Rockingham Market Harborough LE16 8TH

EDITING COMMITTEE

Ms J Domhill (Chair) Mr B Ryder-Davies (Honorary Veterinary Surgeon), Mr W Bedford, Mr M Burks, Mr J Fairbairn, Mr J Holder, Mr D Roberts, Mr P Shipman, Mr C Malkin, Mr J Worthington.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Mrs Y Simmons (Chair), Mrs D Badger, Mr R Clarke, Miss

www.shire-horse.org.uk

TRUSTEES

T J Yates (resigned 7.3.25) Mrs H Thomas S Livesey J Hick H Murphy (resigned 7.3.25) J Robinson

D Clarke

Mrs M Foster (appointed 7.3.25) Ms A M F Soroko (appointed 7.3.25) P Bower (appointed 7.3.25)

COMPANY SECRETARY

Miss V Clayton

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Independent Examiner David Ian Baker FCCA, CFW Accountants LLP, Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers, 3 Weekley Wood Close, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN14 1UQ

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Approved by order of the Board of Trustees and signed on its behalf by:

Victoria Clayton Secretary 20th January 2026

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

Independent Examiner’s Report

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY (‘THE COMPANY’)

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 30 September 2025.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND BASIS OF REPORT

As the charity’s trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’).

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S STATEMENT

Since your charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, which is one of the listed bodies.

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

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

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

  3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act 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; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

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.

David Ian Baker FCCA CFW Accountants LLP Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers 3 Weekley Wood Close Kettering Northamptonshire NN14 1UQ

www.shire-horse.org.uk

Statement of Financial Activities

Notes
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
2
Charitable activities
5
Membership subscriptions
Direct charitable purpose
Other trading activities
3
Investment income
4
Total
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
6
Charitable activities
7
Shire horse show
Stud book fees, sales and service books
Membership subscriptions
Support costs
Direct charitable purpose
Shire/Heavy horse camp
Total
Net gains on investments
NET INCOME
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD		 Unrestricted
fund
£
280,787
45,918
164,360
23,918
44,897
559,880
92,450
130,182
133,915
41,593
106,805
1,328
16,473
522,746
(28,870)
8,264
1,336,538
1,344,802		 Restricted
funds
£
35,000
-
-
-
-
35,000
-
-
-
-
1,061
13,503
-
14,564
-
20,436
130,075
150,511		 2025
Total funds
£

315,787
45,918
164,360

23,918

44,897

594,880

92,450
130,182

133,915

41,593

107,866

14,831

16,473

537,310

(28,870)

28,700

1,466,613

1,495,313		 2024
Total funds
£
279,081
42,186
150,725
17,131
49,817
538,940
80,881
142,382
132,867
38,945
62,068
26,521
10,641
494,305
955
45,590
1,421,023
1,466,613

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

Balance Sheet

Notes
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
13
Investments
14
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks
15
Debtors
16
Cash at bank and in hand
17
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
18
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
20
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS		 Unrestricted
fund
£
15,939
521,227
537,166
11,521
32,491
802,333
846,345
(38,709)
807,636
1,344,802
1,344,802		 Restricted
funds
£
-
150,511
150,511
-
-
-
-
-
-
150,511
150,511		 2025
Total funds
£

15,939

671,738

687,677

11,521

32,491

802,333

846,345

(38,709)

807,636
1,495,313

1,495,313
1,344,802
150,511
1,495,313		 2024
Total funds
£
19,336
688,811
708,147
10,938
23,718
751,139
785,795
(27,329)
758,466
1,466,613
1,466,613
1,336,538
130,075
1,466,613

www.shire-horse.org.uk

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 30 September 2025.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue and were signed on its behalf by:

H Thomas - Trustee

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

Cash Flow Statement

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Cash generated from operations
22
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of tangible fxed assets
Purchase of fxed asset investments
Sale of fxed asset investments
Interest received
Dividends received
Net cash provided by investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period
Notes		 2025
£
18,094
18,094
-
(11,797)
-
25,507
19,390
33,100
51,194
751,139
802,333		 2024
£
(5,127)
(5,127)
(1,889)
(1,172,147)
1,179,785
21,863
27,954
55,566
50,439
700,700
751,139

www.shire-horse.org.uk

Notes to the Financial Statements

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

GENERAL INFORMATION AND BASIS OF PREPARATION

Shire Horse Society is a private company, limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £5 per member of the charity. The address of the registered office is given in the charity information on page 5 of these financial statements.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity.

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated.

INCOME

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure.

Activities for generated funds include proceeds from commercial trading activities.

Investment income is earned through holding assets for investment purposes such as shares. Dividend income is recognised as the charity’s right to receive payment is established.

Incoming resources from charitable activities include membership subscriptions, proceeds relating to the Shire Horse Show and income from the maintenance of a Shire Horse database.

EXPENDITURE

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, 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 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

Paintings 2% on cost less residual value Motor Vehicles 25% on reducing balance Office equipment 25% on reducing balance

Income is shown within four main categories in the Statement of Financial Activities: Voluntary income Activities for generated funds Investment income Incoming resources from charitable activities

Voluntary income includes bequests and donations, and are accounted for at the time of arising.

Gifts in kind are accounted for by recognising as an incoming resource at a reasonable estimate of their fair value. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity. For example the amount the charity would be willing

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. Cost includes costs directly attributable to making the asset capable of operating as intended.

STOCKS

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.

TAXATION

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

FUND ACCOUNTING

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes, and include the following:

The Farriery Fund is established to promote farriery skills and improve animal welfare.

The Stallion Fund is established to encourage stallion ownership, the purpose of which is appropriate genetic diversity.

GOVERNMENT GRANTS

Government grants are recognised on an accrual basis and are classified as either ‘revenue-based’ grant or a ‘capital-based’ grant.

The grants relating to revenue are recognised in income on a systematic basis over the periods in which the entity recognises the related costs for which the grant is intended to compensate. The grant which becomes receivable as compensation for expenses or losses already incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to the entity with no future related costs is recognised in income in the period that it become receivable.

FOREIGN CURRENCIES

Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rate of exchange ruling at the date of transaction. Exchange differences are taken into account in arriving at the operating result.

PENSION COSTS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company’s pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

DONATED SERVICES

No income or expense is recognised in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP 2019, however further detail is included in the Trustees’ Annual Report.

DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

Debtors receivable / creditors payable within one year are measured at transaction price (less any impairment losses on debtors for bad and doubtful debts). Loans and other financial assets / liabilities are initially measured at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost determined using the effective interest method (less any impairment losses on debtors) for bad and doubtful debts.

INVESTMENTS

Investments are stated at their fair value. Unrealised gains on the revaluation of investments are included on the Statement of Financial Activities.

www.shire-horse.org.uk

2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES

Legacies
Grants
Sponsorships and donations		 228,263
-
52,524
280,787
Unrestricted
fund
£		 -
35,000
-
35,000
Restricted
funds
£
228,263

35,000

52,524

315,787
2025
Total funds
£		 182,017
35,000
62,064
2024
Total funds
£
279,081

In 2025 the income from donations and legacies was £315,787 (2024: £279,081) of which £35,000 (2024 £35,000) was attributable to restricted income funds, with the balance of £280,787 (2024: £244,081) adding to unrestricted funds.

Included in sponsorships and donations is Gift Aid of £738 (2024: £1,366).

Grants received, included in the above, are as follows:

Grants received, included in the above, are as follows:
2025 2024
£ £
Horserace Betting Levy Board Grant 35,000 35,000

3. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES

Unrestricted Restricted 2025 2024
fund funds Total funds Total funds
£ £ £ £
Sale of goods 23,918 - 23,918 17,131
4. INVESTMENT INCOME
Unrestricted Restricted 2025 2024
fund funds Total funds Total funds
£ £ £ £
Listed investments 19,390 - 19,390 27,954
Bank interest received 25,507 - 25,507 21,863
44,897 - 44,897 49,817

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

5. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Shire horse show
Stud book fees, sales and service books
Sundry sales and other income
Stallion fund
Membership subscriptions
Life membership subscriptions
Shire/Heavy horse camp		 Membership
subscriptions
£
-
-
-
-
36,398
9,520
-
45,918		 Direct
charitable
purpose
£
92,467
40,520
9,733
2,000
-
-
19,640
164,360		 2025
Total
activities
£

92,467

40,520

9,733

2,000

36,398

9,520

19,640

210,278		 2024
Total
activities
£
82,453
46,097
7,117
2,000
36,751
5,435
13,058
192,911

6. RAISING FUNDS

Raising donations and legacies
Marketing and merchandise costs
Attendance at shows and events
Support costs		 19,914
27,324
45,212
92,450
Unrestricted
fund
£		 -
-
-
-
Restricted
funds
£
19,914

27,324

45,212

92,450
2025
Total funds
£		 14,711
22,207
43,963
2024
Total funds
£
80,881

7. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS

Shire horse show
Stud book fees, sales and service books
Membership subscriptions
Support costs
Direct charitable purpose
Shire/Heavy horse camp		 Direct
Costs
£
130,182
11,578
7,019
40,814
14,831
16,300
220,724		 Support
costs (see
note 8)
£

-

122,337

34,574

67,052

-

173

224,136		 Totals
£
130,182
133,915
41,593
107,866
14,831
16,473
444,860

In 2025 the expenditure on charitable activities was £444,860 (2024: £413,424) of which £14,564 (2024: £26,521) was expenditure from restricted funds and £430,296 (2024: £386,903) was from unrestricted funds.

www.shire-horse.org.uk

8. SUPPORT COSTS

9. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Administration
charge
£
Raising donations and legacies
41,398
Stud book fees, sales and service books
112,017
Membership subscriptions
31,657
Support costs
61,667
Shire/Heavy horse camp
173
246,912
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation - owned assets		 9. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Administration
charge
£
Raising donations and legacies
41,398
Stud book fees, sales and service books
112,017
Membership subscriptions
31,657
Support costs
61,667
Shire/Heavy horse camp
173
246,912
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation - owned assets		 Professional
Shire horse
fess
of the year
championship
£
£
2,304
1,510
6,235
4,085
1,762
1,155
3,254
2,131
-
-
13,555
8,881		 Professional
Shire horse
fess
of the year
championship
£
£
2,304
1,510
6,235
4,085
1,762
1,155
3,254
2,131
-
-
13,555
8,881		 Totals
£
45,212
122,337
34,574
67,052
173
269,348
2025
£
3,397		 2024
£
4,536

Depreciation - owned assets

10. TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees’ remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 30 September 2025 nor for the year ended 30 September 2024.

Trustees’ expenses

There were no trustees’ expenses paid for the year ended 30 September 2025 nor for the year ended 30 September 2024.

11. STAFF COSTS

11. STAFF COSTS
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
Administrative staff
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.		 2025
£
131,082
6,135
2,971
140,188
2025
5		 2024
£
119,284
4,532
2,446
126,262
2024
5

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

12. INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REMUNERATION

Included in the accounts is a charge of £3,980 (2024: £3,890) in respect of the Independent Examiner’s remuneration.

13. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

COST
At 1 October 2024 and 30 September 2025
DEPRECIATION
At 1 October 2024
Charge for year
At 30 September 2025
NET BOOK VALUE
At 30 September 2025
At 30 September 2024		 Paintings
£
5,765
-
-
-
5,765
5,765		 Motor
Vehicles
£
48,311
38,643
2,420
41,063
7,248
9,668		 Offce
equipment
£

19,528

15,625

977

16,602

2,926

3,903		 Totals
£
73,604
54,268
3,397
57,665
15,939
19,336

14. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS

14. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
Listed investments
£
MARKET VALUE
At 1 October 2024 688,811
Additions 11,797
Revaluations (28,870)
At 30 September 2025 671,738
NET BOOK VALUE
At 30 September 2025 671,738
At 30 September 2024 688,811

All investments are held within the UK and primarily for an investment return.

www.shire-horse.org.uk

15. STOCKS

15. STOCKS
2025 2024
£ £
Goods held for resale 11,521 10,938

16. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

Trade debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 2025
£
13,044
19,447
32,491		 2024
£
4,770
18,948
23,718

17. CASH AT BANK AND IN HAND

Cash at bank and in hand
Short term deposits		 2025
£
74,941
727,392
802,333		 2024
£
252,765
498,375
751,139

18. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

2025 2024
£ £
Trade creditors 20,217 6,421
Social security and other taxes 728 2,612
VAT 2,437 609
Other creditors 1,734 3,205
Accruals and deferred income 13,593 14,482
38,709 27,329

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

19. LEASING AGREEMENTS

Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows:

Within one year
Between one and fve years		 2025
£
17,000
69,375
86,375		 2024
£
9,375
-
9,375

20. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS

Unrestricted funds
National Shire Horse Trust Fund
Restricted funds
Farriery Fund
Stallion Fund
TOTAL FUNDS		 At
1.10.24
£
1,336,538
3,389
126,686
130,075
1,466,613		 Net
movement
in funds
£

8,264

-

20,436

20,436

28,700		 At
30.9.25
£
1,344,802
3,389
147,122
150,511
1,495,313

Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
National Shire Horse Trust Fund
Restricted funds
Stallion Fund
TOTAL FUNDS		 Incoming
resources
£
559,880
35,000
594,880		 Resources
expended
£
(522,746)
(14,564)
(537,310)		 Gains and
losses
£

(28,870)

-

(28,870)		 Movement
in funds
£
8,264
20,436
28,700

www.shire-horse.org.uk

Comparatives for movement in funds

Unrestricted funds
National Shire Horse Trust Fund
Restricted funds
Farriery Fund
Stallion Fund
TOTAL FUNDS		 At
1.10.23
£
1,299,427
3,389
118,207
121,596
1,421,023		 Net
movement
in funds
£

37,111

-
8,479

8,479

45,590		 At
30.9.24
£
1,336,538
3,389
126,686
130,075
1,466,613

Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows

Unrestricted funds
National Shire Horse Trust Fund
Restricted funds
Stallion Fund
TOTAL FUNDS		 Incoming
resources
£
503,940
35,000
538,940		 Resources
expended
£
(467,784)
(26,521)
(494,305)		 Gains and
losses
£

955

-

955		 Movement
in funds
£
37,111
8,479
45,590

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:

Unrestricted funds
National Shire Horse Trust Fund
Restricted funds
Farriery Fund
Stallion Fund
TOTAL FUNDS		 At
1.10.23
£
1,299,427
3,389
118,207
121,596
1,421,023		 Net
movement
in funds
£

45,375

-

28,915

28,915

74,290		 At
30.9.25
£
1,344,802
3,389
147,122
150,511
1,495,313

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
National Shire Horse Trust Fund
Restricted funds
Stallion Fund
TOTAL FUNDS		 Incoming
resources
£
1,063,820
70,000
1,133,820		 Resources
expended
£
(990,530)
(41,085)
(1,031,615)		 Gains and
losses
£

(27,915)

-

(27,915)		 Movement
in funds
£
45,375
28,915
74,290

21. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

There were no related party transactions for the year ended 30 September 2025.

22. RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net income for the reporting period (as per the Statement of Financial Activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
Losses/(gain) on investments
Proft on disposal of fxed assets
Interest received
Dividends received
Increase in stocks
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
Increase in creditors
Net cash provided by operations		 2025
£
28,700
3,397
28,870
-
(25,507)
(19,390)
(583)
(8,773)
11,380
18,094		 2024
£
45,590
4,537
(955)
(12,792)
(21,863)
(27,954)
(2,526)
5,176
5,660
(5,127)

Net cash provided by operations

23. ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET FUNDS

Net cash
Cash at bank and in hand
TOTAL		 At
1.10.24
£
751,139
751,139
751,139		 Cash
fow
£

51,194

51,194

51,194		 At
30.9.25
£
802,333
802,333
802,333

29

Election of Trustees and Honorar Treasurer y

ALAN BARLOW

After a wide ranging 25-year career in business (partner at PwC, Director of a FTSE 100 company, CEO of a multinational chemical engineering group), I decided I wanted a radical change. This resulted in my taking up various trustee positions in the Not for Profit sector (business school

advisory board, energy sector trade association, mediation services, and poverty alleviation in developing countries). I’m now looking forward to a fresh challenge. Drawing on my business and charity sector experience, this is contributing to the continuing success of the Society and

help it in realising its ambition of being the leading global authority in the preservation, promotion and welfare of Shire horses.

JAMES HICK

I am the Chief Executive Officer of the British Horse Society, where our purpose is very clear; we are here for all horses, for all people and for life. It is with this experience and knowledge I put myself forward for re-election as a Trustee to continue to support the Shire Horse Society in becoming even

more sustainable and successful in the future.

Shire Horses have always run through our family, and today I am fortunate enough to have four of my own horses, which I show in hand and ride. I am passionate about securing the future of the Shire horse breed

and promoting participation in all forms.

It would continue to be a privilege to serve as a Trustee of the Shire Horse Society.

SIMON LIVESEY

My brother and myself set up the family business in 1986 after both leaving college.

The business, which grows, packs and distributes Woodland Mushrooms, has become one of the largest in Europe, employing 65 staff. We now supply major retailers across the UK including Morrisons, ASDA, Waitrose, and Sainsbury’s, as well as wholesalers across the country.

We also run a pedigree herd of prizewinning Hereford cattle at our farm in Leicestershire.

I am the Chair of the Derbyshire Shire Horse Association and have been for eight years.

I keep and breed Shire Horses. This is fast becoming a full-time hobby which I am very proud of. Not only am I impressed with this magnificent animal, but also by the

many committed and interesting characters I keep meeting along the way!

I would be very privileged to put myself forward for election to the Society’s Board of Trustees and look forward to the challenges that may lie ahead.

CHRISTOPHER MALKIN

Chris is a retired businessman who has run two successful mobile home parks, a residential park in Telford and holiday park in south Shropshire and is therefore very used to dealing with the public. He started showing and breeding

Shire horses in the early 1990’s. He has served on the Shire Horse Society Council for over ten years, during which time he has done three full terms on the Editing Committee and has also been on the Stallion Inspection Panel several times.

He is on both the Shire Horse Society and Clydesdale Horse Society judging panels and the pinnacle of his judging career was in 2023 when

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30

he had the honour of judging the Shire Horse of the Year Show final. He has also served on the judging assessment panel several times and

is keen to encourage new people to breed Shires.

He runs a successful Shire horse stud and stands several Shire horse

stallions each year and is well known for AI work and semen collection.

DAVID CLARKE – HONORARY TREASURER

companies. I currently work in a manufacturing business overseeing all elements of the business, reporting and risk. I am delighted to have acted as honorary treasurer for the last three years and would value your support in being re-elected to the post.

An accountant, with over 21 years’ experience working in both practice and in-house. I have experience of audit and accounting for a wide range of clients including farmers, landowners, local charities, and trading companies. I have worked across the full spectrum of organisations, from charities, public sector, listed companies and private

I have had connections with horses from a very early age, both in my family farming business and from friends

and colleagues. My fascination with Shire horses started when visiting a Shire breeder as a child. Volunteering my

time to support this charity enables me to ensure the breed continues to fascinate many more generations to come.

Election of Council Members

Council members who retire in 2026 and have confirmed their intention to stand for reelection this year:

Mr M Bedford, Yorkshire Miss A Chetwood, Cheshire Mr J Fairbairn, Northumberland Mr L M Fountain, Derbyshire Mr S J Peacock, Essex Mr P Shipman, Leicestershire Mrs Y Simmons, Staffordshire Mr D Yates, Derbyshire

New members standing for elections: Mr H Bardsley, Greater Manchester Mr D Beardmore, Lancashire Mrs L Brookes, Lancashire Mr O Chaffey, Lincolnshire Mrs S Ford, Cheshire Mr A Franklin, Cheshire Mrs E Green, Lancashire Mr J Kitching, Cheshire Mrs J Malkin, Shropshire

There are 12 spaces within the Council available.

Please find below a brief introduction of existing and new members putting themselves forward for the 2026 Shire Horse Society Council Elections.

Please vote for your preferred candidates on the voting papers enclosed and return to the address shown in advance of the deadline.

For the avoidance of doubt, members can vote for up to twelve candidates. Members do not have to use all twelve votes. A member may only vote for one candidate once.

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EXISTING COUNCIL MEMBERS STANDING FOR RE-ELECTION

Mr M Bedford

Miss A Chetwood

Mr J Fairbairn

Mr L M Fountain

Mr S J Peacock

Mr P Shipman

Mrs Y Simmons

Mr D Yates

MR M BEDFORD

Meetings attended 6 of 9 (3 apologies received)

It has never been more important to have strong people on Council who are ready to address the tough questions ahead. The priority for all Council members must always be our breeders — without them, we are left with only a museum piece. Accountability, transparency, and trust within the Society are essential to ensure members have a clear understanding of its direction. I remain committed to listening, engaging, and representing the interests of members. Our Society was built on passion, dedication, and integrity — values I will continue to uphold.

MISS A CHETWOOD

Meetings attended 9 of 9

I have been a member of the SHS since 1983 during which time I bred, shown inhand and competed in harness classes. In 1997 I was appointed onto the full judges panel and have judged many shows; I have had the honour to judge the National Show on three separate occasions. In 2004 I was elected as Secretary of Northwest and Wales Shire Foal Society. During the last six years I have been on the Shire Horse Society Council and for five years on the Show Committee. I fully support the Society in its endeavors to encourage younger members and to promote and preserve the Shire horse. If re-elected to Council, I will always help and do what I can for any member.

MR J FAIRBAIRN

Meetings attended 7 of 9 (2 apologies received)

I’ve been on the Council for the last three years and wish to stand for re-election. For over 30 years I’ve been a member of the Society along with breeding and showing Shires mainly in turnout classes all over the country, as well as judging both in hand and turnouts. During my time on the Council, I was an active member on the Strategy and Development Committee which supported the Youth Council of which I’m a very strong supporter. More recently I was elected on to the Editing Committee and will continue to serve should I be re-elected.

I remain committed to upholding the values of the Society and ensuring the Shire horse continues to thrive for generations to come.

MR L M FOUNTAIN

Meetings attended 9 of 9

Being a fourth-generation breeder and exhibitor, I count myself very lucky to have such a rich history in our breed. I would like to think I am a proactive team player on the Show Committee, and I have served on this for the last twelve months

and before that the Editing Committee. I have always been a positive forwardthinking guy so when challenges occur, I believe they are just a test to overcome and deal with. There seems to be lots of challenges in one form or another the Society has to deal with but the biggest one for me is getting more foals registered so we custodians of the breed

of the present have a breed to pass on to the next generation.

MR S J PEACOCK

Meetings attended 8 of 9

(1 apology received)

I have been professionally involved with Shire horses all my working life. As well as having served on the SHS Council for forty-one years, I have been an active member of all of the sub-committees, including stallion inspections. For a number of years, I Chaired the Judges Seminars and Judges assessments. As Chairman of the Show Committee, I would ask for your support and your vote to allow me to continue with this work or any other that would benefit the Society and its members.

MR P SHIPMAN

Meetings attended 9 of 9

An active Council member for three terms I currently serve on the Editing Committee and the Breeding Programme Working Party. I also steward at the Spring Show. At home we breed, work and show our Shires which are a continuous line back to 1885. We live in challenging times and the SHS is no exception keeping our offering to members as attractive as possible and supporting the breed is vital. If re-elected I will do my best to help achieve these goals.

MRS Y SIMMONS

Meetings attended 9 of 9

Having been an elected Council member since 2020 it has always been my opinion that the membership of this Society

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should be a priority for every Council member, whether you own one Shire or one hundred. Your opinions and wishes should be heard and always taken into consideration. Everyone counts or nobody counts. This has been and will continue to be one of my many mantras going forward. I am currently serving as Chair for the Training and Education Committee, a role which with an excellent hardworking committee has been my honour to conduct. I have personally worked as hard as I can to try and make the Society’s training fair, transparent and

relevant and above all enjoyable and of value to the members.

My passion for the pure-bred Shire horse is unwavering, but I can only continue to support the Society and serve as the members voice if you afford me the privilege of your vote.

MR D YATES

Meetings attended 6 of 9 (3 apologies received)

As a fourth-generation breeder of Shire horses, I bring a lifelong passion and deep understanding of the breed’s heritage

and future. Alongside my family’s commitment to preserving and promoting Shires, I have developed extensive business and leadership skills through my career, currently acting as chair of Bako Group. This combination of Shire horse experience and proven commercial expertise allows me to balance tradition with innovation. I believe I can contribute effectively to the Council, supporting breeders, strengthening the Society’s profile, and ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the Shire horse both in the UK and internationally.

NEW CANDIDATES STANDING FOR ELECTION

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Mr H Bardsley Mr D Beardmore Mrs L Brookes Mr O Chaffey Mrs S Ford
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Mr A Franklin Mrs E Green Mr J Kitching Mrs J Malkin
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MR H BARDSLEY

I am passionate about preserving and promoting the Shire horse, by combining experience, dedication, and vision to support the Society’s goals. Having achieved success in the show ring myself, I understand the hard work, knowledge, and commitment required to showcase our breed at its best be it in-hand, ridden or driven.

I will be dedicated to ensuring the Society remains progressive while honouring its

proud traditions and values that have been at its core for many years. I will focus on strengthening education within the wider community, youth involvement, and breed promotion to secure a sustainable future for the Shire horse. As a Council member, I will listen, represent members fairly, and help guide the Society with integrity, enthusiasm, and genuine care.

MR D BEARDMORE

I’ve been around Shire horses all of my

life through my father and over 30 years experience as a farrier. We are now actively breeding and showing regularly throughout the year as a family. If I was fortunate enough to be elected to council, I would like to keep the Shire’s traditions going but also keep looking for new ideas to help the breed move forward from strength to strength. Try and help with encouragement of breeding as I believe that is where the future lies to help keep from numbers dwindling even more. Help

www.shire-horse.org.uk 33

encourage new people to the Society and help keep their interest strong.

MRS L BROOKES

Although relatively new to our showing community, the combination of attending camp and my passion for the breed has allowed me to successfully contribute to the Society through demonstrations, learning events and shows. The Shire Horse Society has given me friendships, knowledge and opportunity. I want to support the Society to ensure this accessibility continues, where old and new members are encouraged to showcase the breed under fair rules. With a keen interest in driven and agricultural turnout, I would like to increase attendance and reintroduce classes before the implements and vehicles are forever lost. We must grow our audience and ensure the Shire horse still has a place in modern times.

MR O CHAFFEY

I was welcomed into the Shire Horse community 15 years ago as a young handler and have been lucky enough to experience lots of opportunities over that time. Now as an exhibitor and a Vet my focus is on the preservation and welfare of the breed. With a keen interest in AI and poor fertility I would like to encourage education around breeding to ensure we continue to breed quality healthy foals and allow this breed to thrive. I hope to be a fresh face amongst Council to put ideas forward and carry it on to the next generation.

MRS S FORD

I’m originally from a family of renowned Shire breeders in Hainton, Lincolnshire,

now continuing my father Ernie Cosgrove’s legacy in Cheshire under the prefix Hainton Eardswick. I show in-hand alongside my daughters and have had the privilege of judging across the UK and internationally – Germany, Sweden and Australia.

As a life member, I am particularly passionate about encouraging young people and newcomers to gain confidence with showing. I am committed to supporting breeders and contributing my decades of experience and enthusiasm for the breed to both the public and the Shire Horse Society’s Council for the benefit of all members.

MR A FRANKLIN

Hi my name is Anson Franklin, I’m a fourthgeneration breeder and exhibitor of Bosley Minns Shires established in 1936 by my great grandfather, I have decided to stand for election to the Shire Horse Society Council to try and help to preserve the Shire horse for future generations, breeders, exhibitors and our members. I would appreciate your vote and confidence in myself to help protect and preserve our fantastic Shire horse and all of its attributes.

MRS E GREEN

My time is given willingly to promote the future of the breed and as a Council member I would continue to do so in order to represent the membership as a whole. I do not have a three-generation Shire Horse Breeding ancestry, but what I do have is 40 years’ experience in horses that has given me the knowledge and skills to sit on five other societies’ judging and training panels. I uphold our traditions and values but see there is need to adapt in

order to survive so offer the membership consideration and transparency to make fair and consistent judgements.

MR J KITCHING

My family kept and worked Shire horses, always breeding a few foals each year and showed our best ones under the “Moores Gay” prefix.

I developed a great passion for showing and breeding this magnificent breed using all the knowledge and experience that has been passed down to me from my family. I started to breed and show my own Shires under the “Rosemoore” prefix. I have been on the Society’s judging panel since 2017 and I breed several foals each year. I have a family with two children who also share my passion for the breed. My daughter often competes in the young handlers.

Going forward I wish to be elected to the Council to keep these many traditions I have learned within my years alive for the future generations to come.

MRS J MALKIN

I have been involved with horses all my life and a member of the Shire Horse Society for the last 25 years during which time I have, alongside my husband, established a shire stud at Lockley Wood in Shropshire. I am passionate about the breed and want to see it continue into the future. I like to think that I have a sensible approach to most things and will always listen to other people’s opinions. If I am fortunate to receive your vote, I will work hard to maintain our Shire horse traditions in this ever-changing world.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2025

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www.shire-horse.org.uk

35

Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

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Shire Horse of the Year Qualifying Shows 2026

Knutsford Monte-Carlo owned and bred by Messrs J O & W H Whittaker.

2026 HOYS QUALIFIERS

National Spring Show (Stallion) National Spring Show (Mare) Royal Bath & West Show Rutland County Show Royal Three Counties Show Royal Cheshire County Show Lincolnshire Show Royal Norfolk Show South Wales Shire Horse Society Annual Show Great Eccleston Show Newport Show Nantwich Show Ashbourne Show National Summer Show SESHA Penistone Agricultural Show

Photo credit: 1st Class Images

www.shire-horse.org.uk 37

Notes

38 Shire Horse Society

Annual Report and Accounts 2025

Patron : His Majesty King Charles III

The largest gathering of pedigree Shire horses in the world has a new format for 2026! Join us in showcasing the best of the breed!

National Spring Show In-hand “Best of Breed” Showcase Saturday 21st March

Indoors at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, Middlewich Road, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0SR

Includes

National Summer Show Summer Shire Spectacular Thursday 27th August

Outdoors at Rockingham Castle Estate, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7TH

Includes

Shire Horse Society members gain free entry by scanning their 2026 membership badge. Guided stable tours and VIP hospitality available at an extra cost. Gates open 8am to 6pm. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.shire-horse.org.uk/national-shire-horse-show

The Shire Horse Society is the only charity dedicated to the preservation, protection and promotion of Reg Charity No : 210619 the Shire Horse Photo Credit: Real Time Imaging

Tel: 01536 771 611

/SAVEOURSHIRES

E: info@shire-horse.org.uk

W: www.shire-horse.org.uk /SHIRE_HORSE_SOCIETY

/THESHIREHORSESOCIETY

www.shire-horse.org.uk 39

SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY

(Established in 1878 to promote the Old English Breed of Cart Horse)

Governing Document: Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association

Company Limited by Guarantee

Registered in England – Certificate of Incorporation 12383

Registered Charity No. 210619

Registered Office: The Old Dairy, Rockingham Castle and Park, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 8TH

Tel: 01536 771611

Email: info@shire-horse.org.uk

Web: www.shire-horse.org.uk Facebook: /theshirehorsesociety

X: @saveourshires

Chief Executive: Victoria Clayton