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2024-03-31-accounts

Registered number: 01279056 Charity number: 272307

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

CONTENTS

Page
Reference and administrative details of the company, its Trustees and advisers 1
Trustees' report 2 - 8
Independent auditors' report on the financial statements 9 - 12
Consolidated statement of financial activities 13
Consolidated balance sheet 14
Company balance sheet 15
Consolidated statement of cash flows 16
Notes to the financial statements 17 - 38

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE COMPANY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Trustees D W Cates
T J Fitzpatrick
J Green
C H W Holloway
B J Newton (appointed 28 July 2023)
T-A Preston (appointed 28 July 2023)
K L Purdy
C E Self (resigned 5 May 2023)
A P Waling
A N Wells (resigned 5 May 2023)
Company registered
number
01279056
Charity registered
number
272307
Registered office
Laurel Farm
Thursford
Fakenham
Norfolk
NR21 0AS
Chief executive officer
J R Cushing
Independent auditors
Larking Gowen LLP
Chartered Accountants
1st Floor, Prospect House
Rouen Road
Norwich
NR1 1RE

Page 1

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee)

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The Trustees present their annual report together with the audited financial statements of the company for the year 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. The Annual report serves the purposes of both a Trustees' report and a directors' report under company law. The Trustees confirm that the Annual report and financial statements of the charitable company comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the charitable company's governing document and the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

a. Policies and objectives

The Thursford Collection’s charitable objective is:

Thursford Collection operates a steam engine and organ museum, and conducts a Christmas Spectacular show in Thursford, Norfolk. These activities are charitable and are funded from museum admission fees, show ticket sales, the staging of summer concerts and the receipt of income from its trading subsidiary. Souvenir shops, catering facilities, Holly Lodge Boutique B&B, weddings and events, Fantasy Land, Santa’s Magical Journey and the Enchanted Journey of Light are run by its subsidiary company, Thursford Enterprises, which pays a licence fee and makes Gift Aid payments to Thursford Collection.

The Thursford Collection is a museum of educational benefit and interest to all visitors, as well as advancing the arts.

Its policy is to inform, educate and provide an insight into the history of steam engines and organs. All exhibits and their surroundings are maintained to the highest standards. All people can benefit from the charity’s work and there are no restrictions on who can attend.

The policy is also to advance the arts, in particular the arts of music and dance by the Christmas Spectacular show which may incorporate the display of parts of the Collection and thereby increase the awareness of the Collection.

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit: running a charity (PB2)'.

Page 2

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Objectives and activities (continued)

b. Strategies for achieving objectives

The Thursford Collection is continually striving to improve the quality and extent of its exhibits available for display and to advance the arts for the benefit of the public by continuing to conduct the Christmas Spectacular show.

The Thursford Collection continues to benefit from income generated by its subsidiary company which is responsible for weddings and events, Holly Lodge Boutique B&B, Fantasy Land, Santa’s Magical Journey, the Enchanted Journey of Light and running the shops and catering facilities at the Collection. Following its successful introduction in 2020, Thursford Enterprises continues with the enhancement to its previous Christmas activities, with the Enchanted Journey of Light now permanently running alongside the Christmas Spectacular and Santa’s Magical Journey. Turnover from third parties generated by the subsidiary was £2,362,802 (2023: £2,297,364). The company donates any taxable profits to Thursford Collection as a Gift Aid payment.

Strategic report

Achievements and performance

a. Review of activities

Despite many external challenges continuing to affect a lot of industries, and in particular the arts, leisure, tourism and hospitality, and not just the Thursford Collection, including but not limited to attendance, changing habits, a changing generation, income and cost pressures, local availability of affordable accommodation, group friendly accommodation, supply chains, personnel, increasing competition, environmental and sustainability, and inclusivity.

The Thursford Collection group income pre-theatre tax relief increased from £7,876,894 in 2023 to £8,108,021 in 2024.

In addition, the group generated theatre tax credits of £487,677 (2023: £1,171,390), increasing the overall group income for 2024 to £8,595,698 (2023: 9,048,284). The prior period amount was high due to historic claims of £702,722.

Income from the museum was £55,620 (2023: £54,700), and Christmas Spectacular £5,296,330 (2023: £5,320,427).

Attendance at the shows was 108,870 (79 shows), compared to 112,466 (82 shows) last year, and the record of 114,546 (82 shows) in 2019.

The Christmas Spectacular was once again very well received.

The number of unique visitors to Santa’s Magical Journey and the Enchanted Journey of Light was 35,387, compared to 37,364 last year, and 39,472 in 2022.

The total number of visitors during Christmas was 144,257 (2023: 149,830) out of a total number of visitors of 152,029 (2023: 157,719). Christmas therefore accounted for 94.9% (2023: 95.0%) of all visitors.

The number of room nights booked at Holly Lodge Boutique B&B was 1,721, compared to 1,749 last year, and 1,574 in 2022.

Page 3

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Strategic report (continued)

Achievements and performance (continued)

The group's surplus for the year is £1,348,585 (2023: £2,176,900), including the theatre tax credits of £487,677 (2023: £1,171,390).

Following the difficult years of 2021 and 2022, and in light of the ongoing business challenges, the trustees are delighted with the recovery seen in 2023 and 2024.

Key projects completed during the year included the restoration of the Burrell Special Scenic Showman’s Engine ‘Victory’ back into steam, which later made its first public appearance in steam for almost 40 years at the Royal Norfolk Show, and the Thursford Gala Day. The installation of a new state-of-the-art sound system in the auditorium, and the purchase of an additional 11 acres of land to support the plans for future periods.

b. Fundraising activities and income generation

It is not the policy of the trustees to undertake direct fundraising activities. We do not engage any persons or organisations to undertake fundraising or subscribe to any fundraising regulations.

As a consequence, the public at large, whether vulnerable or otherwise, has not been approached in any way to contribute funds to the charity and no complaints have been received by the charity in relation to fundraising activities.

Financial review

a. Going concern

After making appropriate enquiries, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

Page 4

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee)

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

b. Reserves policy

At the period end the Thursford Collection group had total funds of £15.3m (2023: £13.9m), all of which was unrestricted. Of this, £10.63m (2023: £9.43m) is invested in fixed assets, leaving £4.7m (2023: £4.5m) of free reserves.

A target level of free reserves is set by the Trustees annually. This is based on a risk identification approach which identifies key short, medium and longer-term risks to which the charity is and will be exposed in the normal course of its business, including but not limited to:

The target level of reserves also takes into account the need for future investment in the operations of the Charity.

Based upon their assessment the trustees consider the long-term target level of free reserves is £2 million. The current level of free reserves is £4.7m which, whilst above target, the trustees consider appropriate taking into account the continuing challenging economic circumstances, the charity’s long-term plans to re-establish itself as an all-year-round family friendly visitor attraction of choice, and the development projects set out in the ‘plans for future periods’ section of this report.

c. Material investments

Thursford Collection has investment in property of £375,000 (2023: £385,000).

d. Principal risks and uncertainties

The trustees acknowledge the Charity Commission’s requirement for them to undertake a review of the major risks to which the charitable company is exposed and to establish systems to mitigate these risks. This review has been made and is continually monitored and updated. The principal risks relate to the maintenance of visitor numbers, which is key to financial viability, and operating attractions that are open to the general public.

The charity, together with its trading subsidiary, continually strives to better its offerings, improve facilities, maintain high levels of customer, supplier and employee satisfaction, drive operational efficiencies, all whilst maintaining its heritage and values at its core. The charity employs a base of permanent skilled and professional staff, as well external advisors in key areas of finance, health & safety, HR, insurance, energy procurement, PR, maintenance, first aid, security, traffic management, and the production of its Christmas events.

e. Principal funding

The principal funding comes from admission to the Thursford Collection Steam Museum, Christmas Spectacular ticket sales and the trading subsidiary’s trading activities.

Page 5

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee)

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Structure, governance and management

a. Constitution

The Thursford Collection is registered as a charitable company limited by guarantee and was set up in 1976. The company last revised its Articles of Association in 2020. The trustees are the members. There are currently eight members, each of whom agrees to contribute £1 in the event of the charity winding up.

b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees

As set out in the Articles of Association trustees shall be appointed by resolution of the trustees and shall hold office for a term of three years from the date of his or her appointment, upon expiry of which he or she shall be eligible for re appointment for a further term of three years. Potential new trustees are vetted by a subcommittee of trustees and management, this committee’s brief is to ensure that potential new trustees have the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure the objectives of the charitable company are adhered to.

c. Organisational structure and decision-making policies

The board of trustees, which can have up to 12 members, administers the charity. The board normally meets quarterly. A Chief Executive is appointed by the trustees to manage the day to day operations of the charity. To facilitate effective operations, the Chief Executive has delegated authority, within terms of delegation approved by the trustees, for operational matters including finance, employment and artistic performance related activity.

d. Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees

New trustees undergo an orientation session to brief them on their legal obligations under charity law, the content of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the committee and decision making policies, access to governance documents, recent financial performance of the charitable company and an insight into the operations of the business.

e. Pay policy for key management personnel

The pay of senior staff is reviewed annually. Salaries are benchmarked against pay levels in similar organisations taking into account market conditions and responsibilities. Key management personnel is considered to be:

f. Related party relationships

Details of related party transactions are set out in note 29.

Page 6

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Plans for future periods

The long-term aim remains to secure the charity's financial base so that it can continue to operate as a unique museum and deliver the Christmas Spectacular show. To help achieve this, the charity is working towards a strategy including:

Statement of Trustees' responsibilities

The Trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report including the Strategic report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial . Under company law, the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and the company and of their incoming resources and application of resources, including their income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Group and the company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group and the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group and the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Disclosure of information to auditors

Each of the persons who are Trustees at the time when this Trustees' report is approved has confirmed that:

Page 7

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee)

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Auditors

The auditors, Larking Gowen LLP, have indicated their willingness to continue in office. The designated Trustees will propose a motion reappointing the auditors at a meeting of the Trustees.

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

T J Fitzpatrick Chair of Trustees Date: 1 November 2024

Page 8

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of The Thursford Collection (the 'parent charitable company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the Consolidated statement of financial activities, the Consolidated balance sheet, the Company balance sheet, the Consolidated statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

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

Conclusions relating to going concern

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

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

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

Page 9

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (CONTINUED)

Other information

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

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of our knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Trustees' report including the Strategic report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Page 10

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (CONTINUED)

Responsibilities of trustees

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

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

Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

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

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Due to the field in which the Group operates, we identified the areas most likely to have a direct material impact on the financial statements as compliance with UK tax legislation, UK accounting standards, UK charity law and the Companies Act 2006. In addition, we considered the provisions of other laws and regulations which whilst not having a direct impact on the financial statements, are fundamental to the Group’s ability to operate including health and safety; employment law, and compliance with various other regulations relevant to the conduct of the Group’s operations.

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risk of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, included the following:

Page 11

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (CONTINUED)

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and its members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Giles Kerkham FCA (Senior statutory auditor)

for and on behalf of Larking Gowen LLP

Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditors

Norwich

6 November 2024

Page 12

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Note
Income from:
Donations and legacies
4
Charitable activities
5
Other trading activities
6
Investments
7
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
8
Charitable activities
Total expenditure
Net income before net (losses)/gains on
investments
Net (losses)/gains on investments
14
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried forward		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
69,532
6,030,792
2,362,802
132,572
8,595,698
1,841,418
5,395,695
7,237,113
1,358,585
(10,000)
1,348,585
13,949,492
1,348,585
15,298,077		 Total
funds
2024
£
69,532
6,030,792
2,362,802
132,572
8,595,698
1,841,418
5,395,695
7,237,113
1,358,585
(10,000)
1,348,585
13,949,492
1,348,585
15,298,077		 Total
funds
2023
£
-
6,715,249
2,297,364
35,671
9,048,284
1,720,834
5,155,550
6,876,384
2,171,900
5,000
2,176,900
11,772,592
2,176,900
13,949,492

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

Page 13

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 01279056

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
13
Heritage assets
15
Investments
16
Investment property
14
Current assets
Stocks
17
Debtors
18
Investments
19
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
20
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due after more
than one year
21
Total net assets
Charity funds
Unrestricted funds
22
Total funds		 180,297
1,161,142
3,000,000
2,814,061
7,155,500
(2,459,841)		 2024
£
8,595,901
1,659,968
20
375,000
10,630,889
4,695,659
15,326,548
(28,471)
15,298,077
15,298,077
15,298,077		 208,305
908,793
-
5,888,206
7,005,304
(2,458,475)		 2023
£
7,384,277
1,659,968
20
385,000
9,429,265
4,546,829
13,976,094
(26,602)
13,949,492
13,949,492
13,949,492

The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and preparation of financial statements.

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

T J Fitzpatrick (Chair of Trustees) Date: 1 November 2024

Page 14

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 01279056

COMPANY BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
13
Heritage assets
15
Investments
16
Investment property
14
Current assets
Debtors
18
Current Asset Investments
19
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
20
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Total net assets
Charity funds
Unrestricted funds
22
Total funds		 373,683
3,000,000
1,474,911
4,848,594
(2,290,382)		 2024
£
7,997,789
1,659,968
300,020
375,000
10,332,777
2,558,212
12,890,989
12,890,989
12,890,989
12,890,989		 232,498
-
5,151,990
5,384,488
(2,226,214)		 2023
£
6,793,921
1,659,968
300,020
385,000
9,138,909
3,158,274
12,297,183
12,297,183
12,297,183
12,297,183

The company's net movement in funds for the year was £ 593,806 (2023 - £1,079,031) .

The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and preparation of financial statements.

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

T J Fitzpatrick (Chair of Trustees) Date: 1 November 2024

Page 15

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Investment income
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Net cash provided by financing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents and treasury deposits at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents and treasury deposits at the end of the year		 2024
£
1,800,455
132,572
(2,007,172)
(1,874,600)
-
(74,145)
5,888,206
5,814,061		 2023
£
2,321,745
35,671
(1,164,989)
(1,129,318)
-
1,192,427
4,695,779
5,888,206

The notes on pages 17 to 38 form part of these financial statements

Page 16

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1. General information

The Thursford Collection is a private company limited by guarantee, incorporated in England and Wales, registration number 01279056. The registered office is Laurel Farm, Thursford, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0AS. The company is registered as a charity with Charity Commission, registration number 272307.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

The Thursford Collection meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

The Consolidated statement of financial activities (SOFA) and Consolidated balance sheet consolidate the financial statements of the company and its subsidiary undertaking. The results of the subsidiary are consolidated on a line by line basis.

The company has taken advantage of the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not presented its own Statement of financial activities in these financial statements.

2.2 Company status

The company is the company limited by guarantee. The members of the company are the trustees named on page 1. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the company.

2.3 Going concern

The trustees have considered the group's and charity’s position at the time of signing the financial statements, and in particular future trading expectations and working capital facilities.

Based on this, the trustees have concluded that they have a reasonable expectation that the group and charity will have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future, and at least twelve months from the date of signing these financial statements. They therefore continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing these financial statements.

2.4 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Group and which have not been designated for other purposes. Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

Page 17

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.5 Income

All income is recognised once Group has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

The recognition of income from legacies is dependent on establishing entitlement, the probability of receipt and the ability to estimate with sufficient accuracy the amount receivable. Evidence of entitlement to a legacy exists when the company has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them (through knowledge of the existence of a valid will and the death of the benefactor) and the executor is satisfied that the property in question will not be required to satisfy claims in the estate. Receipt of a legacy must be recognised when it is probable that it will be received and the fair value of the amount receivable, which will generally be the expected cash amount to be distributed to the company, can be reliably measured.

Income from the Christmas Spectacular, museum entrance fees and commercial trading activities are recognised as the related goods or services are provided.

Other income is recognised in the period in which it is receivable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on completion of the service.

2.6 Expenditure

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

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. All expenses including support costs and governance costs are allocated to the applicable expenditure headings.

Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity. Governance costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the charity and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Charitable activities and Governance costs are costs incurred on the charity's operations, including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the charity apportioned to charitable activities.

Expenditure on raising funds includes all expenditure incurred by the Group to raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charitable trading.

Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Group's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.

2.7 Basis of consolidation

The financial statements consolidate the accounts of The Thursford Collection and all of its subsidiary undertakings ('subsidiaries').

Page 18

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.8 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Heritage assets represent the museum exhibits held by the charity. The museum is open to the general public. These include a unique collection of steam engines, fairground rides and organs. Heritage assets owned by the charity are carried at cost which is the purchase price or valuation on the date of receipt if donated. It is believed the assets will have an unlimited life given the regular maintenance they receive and hence they are not depreciated.

There are no plans to dispose of heritage assets and currently no plans to make further acquisitions, but opportunities will be considered if they arise. A schedule of heritage assets is maintained.

Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition are included in the measurement of cost.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives.

Depreciation is provided on the following bases:

Land and buildings - 50 years straight line
Motor vehicles - 5 years straight line
Fixtures and fittings - Straight line over the life of the asset - 5 to 30
years
Costumes - 40% first year then reducing balance basis
25% thereafter
Fantasy land equipment - Straight line and reducing balance over the life
of the asset - 3 to 30 years
Investment property fixtures - 25% reducing balance basis

2.9 Investments

Fixed asset investments are a form of basic financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction value and subsequently measured at cost less provision for impairment, as a reliable measure of their fair value cannot be made.

Investments in subsidiaries are valued at cost less provision for impairment.

2.10 Investment property

Investment property is included in the balance sheet at fair value, determined annually by the trustees and derived from current market rents, professional advice and investment property yields, adjusted if necessary for any difference in the nature, location or condition of the specific asset. No depreciation is charged on investment property.

Page 19

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.11 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Group; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.

2.12 Operating leases

Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Consolidated statement of financial activities on a straight line basis over the lease term.

2.13 Stocks

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks. Cost is based on a first in first out basis and includes all direct costs.

2.14 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

2.15 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

2.16 Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the company anticipated it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.

Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present obligation of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Consolidated statement of financial activities as a finance cost.

2.17 Financial instruments

The Group only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Page 20

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.18 Pensions

The Group operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the company to the fund in respect of the year.

3. Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgment

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions:

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates and assumptions will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

Useful economic lives of tangible assets and heritage assets - the annual depreciation for tangible assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are reassessed annually. The carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and heritage assets are described in notes 13 and 15, and the useful economic lives for each class of asset are described in accounting policy 2.8.

4. Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Total Total
funds funds funds
2024 2024 2023
£ £ £
Legacies 69,532 69,532 -

Page 21

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

5. Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Museum entrance fees
55,620
Christmas Spectacular
5,296,330
Theatre tax relief claim
487,677
Other
191,165
6,030,792		 Total
funds
2024
£
55,620
5,296,330
487,677
191,165
6,030,792		 Total
funds
2023
£
54,700
5,320,427
1,171,390
168,732
6,715,249

In August 2022 the subsidiary company, Thursford Enterprises Limited was successful at the First-tier Tribunal in a challenge to HM Revenue & Customs' decision to disallow prior years' Theatre Tax Relief claims. The theatre tax credit in the prior period of £1,171,390 included historic claims.

6. Income from trading activities

Income from non charitable trading activities

Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Enchanted Journey of Light and Santa's Magical Journey
943,685
Catering sales and marquee
937,757
Souvenirs
290,039
Holly lodge
187,428
Other - subsidiary
3,893
2,362,802		 Total
funds
2024
£
943,685
937,757
290,039
187,428
3,893
2,362,802		 Total
funds
2023
£
888,137
958,317
290,782
152,606
7,522
2,297,364

Page 22

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

7. Investment income

Unrestricted Total Total
funds funds funds
2024 2024 2023
£ £ £
Investment income 132,572 132,572 35,671

8. Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Cost of sales
883,377
Administrative expenses
83,945
Wages and salaries
648,863
Social security costs
41,744
Depreciation
163,865
1,821,794
Other trading expenses
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Cost of sales
109
Administration expenses
1,179
Administration staff costs
18,336
19,624		 Total
funds
2024
£
883,377
83,945
648,863
41,744
163,865
1,821,794
Total
funds
2024
£
109
1,179
18,336
19,624		 Total
funds
2023
£
825,480
71,712
620,439
40,326
144,416
1,702,373
Total
funds
2023
£
-
-
18,461
18,461

Page 23

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Operation of museum
Christmas spectacular
Operation of museum
Christmas Spectacular		 Activities
undertaken
directly
2024
£
355,974
3,202,768
3,558,742
Activities
undertaken
directly
2023
£
345,703
3,040,737
3,386,440		 Support
costs
2024
£
26,866
1,810,087
1,836,953
Support
costs
2023
£
22,490
1,746,620
1,769,110		 Total
funds
2024
£
382,840
5,012,855
5,395,695
Total
funds
2023
£
368,193
4,787,357
5,155,550

Page 24

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of direct costs

Depreciation
Exhibit maintenance and restoration
Repairs to equipment
Other
Choir fees, musicians, organist and cast
Electrical, lighting and sound
Costumes, decorations and special effects
Advertising, programmes and special effects
Cassettes, records and videos
Accommodation and travel
Hire of equipment and facilities
First aid		 Operation
of museum
2024
£
6,317
57,368
56,634
235,655
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
355,974		 Christmas
Spectacular
2024
£
625,366
-
-
-
1,574,528
205,235
168,584
347,550
29,800
136,433
100,481
14,791
3,202,768		 Total
funds
2024
£
631,683
57,368
56,634
235,655
1,574,528
205,235
168,584
347,550
29,800
136,433
100,481
14,791
3,558,742

Page 25

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of direct costs (continued)

Depreciation
Exhibit maintenance and restoration
Repairs to equipment
Other
Choir fees, musicians, organist and cast
Electrical, lighting and sound
Costumes, decorations and special effects
Advertising, programmes and special effects
Cassettes, records and videos
Accommodation and travel
Hire of equipment and facilities
First aid
Analysis of support costs
Staff costs
Property expenses
Advertising
General office administration
Bank charges
Governance costs		 Operation of
museum
2023
£
5,712
36,222
59,099
244,670
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
345,703		 Christmas
Spectacular
2023
£
565,498
-
-
-
1,576,030
200,550
178,200
272,273
31,934
107,630
95,241
13,381
3,040,737
Total
funds
2024
£
1,088,262
464,928
30,358
150,568
75,971
26,866
1,836,953		 Total
funds
2023
£
571,210
36,222
59,099
244,670
1,576,030
200,550
178,200
272,273
31,934
107,630
95,241
13,381
3,386,440
Total
funds
2023
£
979,508
479,491
60,478
145,455
81,688
22,490
1,769,110

Page 26

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

10. Auditors' remuneration

2024 2023
£ £
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's and
subsidiary's annual accounts 21,950 20,900
Fees payable to the company's auditor in respect of:
All taxation advisory services 6,915 6,270
Other 210 -

11. Staff costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Contribution to defined contribution pension
schemes		 Group
2024
£
1,606,111
123,026
68,068
1,797,205		 Group
2023
£
1,477,920
118,518
62,296
1,658,734		 Company
2024
£
895,085
89,488
49,732
1,034,305		 Company
2023
£
796,560
86,366
43,835
926,761

The average number of persons employed by the company during the year was as follows:

Group Group Company Company
2024 2023 2024 2023
No. No. No. No.
80 75 35 32

The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:

Group Group
2024 2023
No. No.
In the band £60,001 - £70,000 1 1
In the band £200,001 - £210,000
1 1

Remuneration paid to key management personnel, including employer's national insurance, and pension contributions totalled £419,540 (2023: £433,060).

Page 27

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

12. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2023 - £NIL) .

During the year ended 31 March 2024, expenses totalling £ 2,693 were reimbursed or paid directly to 4 trustees (2023: £1,446 paid to 3 trustees).

13. Tangible fixed assets

Group

Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2023
Additions
At 31 March 2024
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023
Charge for the year
At 31 March 2024
Net book value
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023		 Freehold
property
£
6,628,204
495,342
7,123,546
1,002,182
144,436
1,146,618
5,976,928
5,626,022		 Motor
vehicles
£
11,395
-
11,395
9,117
2,278
11,395
-
2,278		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
5,834,787
1,139,061
6,973,848
4,954,026
341,425
5,295,451
1,678,397
880,761		 Other fixed
assets
(Including
costumes)
£
3,646,299
372,769
4,019,068
2,771,083
307,409
3,078,492
940,576
875,216		 Total
£
16,120,685
2,007,172
18,127,857
8,736,408
795,548
9,531,956
8,595,901
7,384,277

Page 28

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

13. Tangible fixed assets (continued)

Company

Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2023
Additions
At 31 March 2024
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023
Charge for the year
At 31 March 2024
Net book value
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023		 Freehold
property
£
6,474,002
495,342
6,969,344
1,002,182
144,436
1,146,618
5,822,726
5,471,820		 Motor
vehicles
£
11,395
-
11,395
9,117
2,278
11,395
-
2,278		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
5,994,547
1,139,061
7,133,608
4,927,066
341,425
5,268,491
1,865,117
1,067,481		 Costumes
£
1,059,271
201,148
1,260,419
806,929
143,544
950,473
309,946
252,342		 Total
£
13,539,215
1,835,551
15,374,766
6,745,294
631,683
7,376,977
7,997,789
6,793,921

Page 29

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

14. Investment property

Group and company

Valuation
At 1 April 2023
Surplus on revaluation
At 31 March 2024		 Freehold
investment
property
£
385,000
(10,000)
375,000

A valuation was undertaken by the trustees at 31 March 2024.

Historic cost
Accumulated revaluation		 Group
2024
£
206,590
168,410
375,000		 Group
2023
£
206,590
178,410
385,000		 Company
2024
£
206,590
168,410
375,000		 Company
2023
£
206,590
178,410
385,000

Page 30

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

15. Heritage assets

Group and Company

Assets recognised at cost

Carrying value at 1 April 2023
Carrying value at 31 March 2024		 Museum
exhibits
2024
£
1,659,968
1,659,968		 Total
2024
£
1,659,968
1,659,968

The heritage assets are the museum exhibits, a unique collection of steam engines, fairground rides and organs. Given their regular maintenance, the assets are considered to have an indefinite life.

Analysis of heritage asset transactions

Group and Company

Cost brought forward
Additions
Cost carried forward		 2024
£
1,658,968
-
1,658,968		 2023
£
1,658,968
-
1,658,968		 2022
£
1,658,468
1,500
1,659,968		 2021
£
1,658,468
-
1,658,468		 2020
£
1,658,468
-
1,658,468

Page 31

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

16. Fixed asset investments

Group
Cost
At 1 April 2023
At 31 March 2024
Company
Cost
At 1 April 2023
At 31 March 2024		 Investments
in
subsidiary
companies
£
300,000
300,000		 Unlisted
investments
£
20
20		 Unlisted
investments
£
20
20
Total
£
300,020
300,020

Principal subsidiaries

The following was a subsidiary undertaking of the company:

Name Company Registered office or principal Class of Holding
number place of business shares
Thursford Enterprises Limited 01321878 Laurel Farm, Thursford, Ordinary 100%
Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0AS

Included in consolidation

Yes

The financial results of the subsidiary for the year were:

Name Income Expenditure Profit for Net assets
£ £ the year £
£
Thursford Enterprises Limited 5,317,393 (4,562,614) 754,779 2,552,886

Page 32

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

17. Stocks

Group Group
2024 2023
£ £
Goods for resale 180,297 208,305

18. Debtors

Due within one year
Trade debtors
Amounts owed by group undertakings
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
Current asset investments
Treasury deposits		 Group
2024
£
15,270
-
1,033,978
111,894
1,161,142
Group
2024
£
3,000,000		 Group
2023
£
70,108
-
754,481
84,204
908,793
Group
2023
£
-		 Company
2024
£
1,363
191,355
77,633
103,332
373,683
Company
2024
£
3,000,000		 Company
2023
£
-
73,154
84,709
74,635
232,498
Company
2023
£
-

19. Current asset investments

Treasury deposits are cash deposits with a maturity of more than three months.

Page 33

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

20. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Trade creditors
Other taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income
Deferred income at 1 April 2023
Resources deferred during the year
Amounts released from previous periods
Deferred income at 31 March 2024		 Group
2024
£
143,200
52,741
91,069
2,172,831
2,459,841
Group
2024
£
2,103,741
2,137,516
(2,075,270)
2,165,987		 Group
2023
£
199,366
38,431
79,579
2,141,099
2,458,475
Group
2023
£
1,980,972
2,084,772
(1,962,003)
2,103,741		 Company
2024
£
114,259
30,517
84,850
2,060,756
2,290,382
Company
2024
£
1,920,759
2,048,586
(1,920,759)
2,048,586		 Company
2023
£
165,825
31,187
70,719
1,958,483
2,226,214
Company
2023
£
1,843,769
1,920,759
(1,843,769)
1,920,759

Deferred income principally relates to Christmas Spectacular tickets sold in advance, and advanced payments for weddings, which makes up deferred income due in more than one year.

21. Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

Group Group
2024 2023
£ £
Accruals and deferred income 28,471 26,602

Page 34

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

22. Statement of funds Statement of funds - current year

Balance at
Balance at 1 Gains/ 31 March
April 2023 Income Expenditure (Losses) 2024
£ £ £ £ £
General Funds 13,949,492 8,595,698 (7,237,113) (10,000) 15,298,077

The surplus of the Thursford Collection before consolidation and investment gains was £603,806 (2023: £1,074,031) for the year ended 31 March 2024. Included in reserves at 31 March 2024 are unrealised revaluation gains of £168,410 (2023: £178,410).

Statement of funds - prior year

Balance at
Balance at Gains/ 31 March
1 April 2022 Income Expenditure (Losses) 2023
£ £ £ £ £
General Funds 11,772,592 9,048,284 (6,876,384) 5,000 13,949,492

Page 35

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

23. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities

Net income for the period (as per Statement of
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
Revaluation loss/(gain) on investment property
Interest from investments
Decrease in stocks
Increase in debtors
Increase in creditors
Net cash provided by operating activities
24.
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
Cash in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents
25.
Analysis of changes in net debt
Cash at bank and in hand
Treasury deposits		 Financial Activities)
At 1 April
2023
Cash flows
£
£
5,888,206
(74,145)
-
-
5,888,206
(74,145)		 Group
2024
£
1,348,585
795,548
10,000
(132,572)
28,008
(252,349)
3,235
1,800,455
Group
2024
£
5,814,061
5,814,061
Treasury
deposits
£
(3,000,000)
3,000,000
-		 Group
2023
£
2,176,900
715,626
(5,000)
(35,671)
29,829
(716,652)
156,713
2,321,745
Group
2023
£
5,888,206
5,888,206
At 31 March
2024
£
2,814,061
3,000,000
5,814,061

Page 36

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

26. Capital commitments

Group Group Company Company
2024 2023 2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Contracted for but not provided in these
financial statements
Acquisition of tangible fixed assets - 999,420 - 999,420

27. Pension commitments

The group operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The pension charge represents contributions payable by the group in the period. Total amounts of £68,068 (2023: £62,296) were paid in the period. The contributions included in creditors at the 31 March 2024 were £5,991 (2023: £4,828).

28. Operating lease commitments

At 31 March 2024 the Group and the company had commitments to make future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:

Not later than 1 year
Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years		 Group
2024
£
23,320
12,788
36,108		 Group
2023
£
42,487
36,108
78,595		 Company
2024
£
23,320
12,788
36,108		 Company
2023
£
37,237
36,108
73,345

Page 37

THE THURSFORD COLLECTION (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

29. Related party transactions

The charitable company paid costs for hire of equipment and expenses of £2,860 (2023: £3,638) to J R Cushing, a director of Thursford Enterprises Limited, and chief executive of the charity. The charity and subsidiary company also made sales of £9,355 (2023: £18,012) to J R Cushing. A net balance of £574 was owed by J R Cushing at the period end (2023: £573 owed to).

The charity and subsidiary company paid a rental and made other purchases of £14,400 (2023: £26,657) from, close family members of J R Cushing. The group also made sales of £2,964 (2023: £10,087) to these individuals. At 31 March 2024 £1,414 (2023: £Nil) was owed by the close family members, and £nil (2023 - £Nil) was due to them.

The charitable company paid £625 (2023: £325) for a haulage service to A P Waling, a Trustee.

The charitable company paid total costs of £16,414 (2023: £16,614) to R Wolfe (Wolfe Productions) for his services as an organist who is a close family member of a Trustee, D W Cates.

During the period to 31 March 2024, Thursford Enterprises Limited, the charity's wholly owned subsidiary, paid a licence fee of £225,000 (2023: £190,000) to the charity for the right to occupy and use certain areas of the charity's property.

The charity also engaged Thursford Enterprises Limited to produce the Christmas Spectacular. The charge for the period was £2,451,233 (2023: £2,363,575). During the period the charity provided production services to Thursford Enterprises Limited. The charge for the period was £2,451,233 (2023: £2,363,575).

During the period, Thursford Enterprises Limited paid £nil (2023: £416,739) to the charitable company by way of Gift Aid.

At 31 March 2024 £191,355 (2023: £73,154) was due to the charity from Thursford Enterprises Limited. The amount is secured by a fixed and floating charge over all property and assets present and future of Thursford Enterprises Limited.

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