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2023-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT 2023

www.pontefractcivicsociety.org.uk

Chair’s Review of 2023 4 Patron’s Address 7 President’s Address 7 Citizenship Group Report 8 Decoration Squad Report 9 Futures Group Report 9 Highways Group Report 10 Rail Group Report 10 Talks & Tours Group Report 11 Planning Group Report 12 Heritage Group Report 12 Heritage Open Days 13 Design Awards 2023 14 Our Trustees & Working Groups 18 Vice Chair’s Report 19 Treasurer’s Report 20 2023 Annual Accounts 21 2023 Calendar of Events 23

CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Venue provision: Town Hall, Library and Castle (WMDC), The Old Grocers, Tracked Spider Solutions, King’s Croft Hotel, Central Methodist Church, The Magistrates Market, The Court Cafe, Cromwells and The Red Lion Heritage Open Days: All venues, exhibitors, speakers, workshop hosts, and tour guides, too many to mention Ticket/book: The Old Grocers, Michelle’s Flowers, House of Ales, Pomfret Gallery and Magistrates Market

Decoration collection points: Library, Yorkshire Building Society, and Michelle’s Flowers

Photography courtesy of: Christine & Paul Cartwright, Peter Ferrari, Medlock Photography, Dan Barber Photography, Prince of Wales Hospice, Phil Cook, design award winners and agents

Window Decorations Judges: Pontefract Academies Trust schools and St Giles CofE Academy

Decoration Squad: Both civic society members, other volunteers including schools and Magistrates Court

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CHAIR’S REVIEW OF 2023

I am pleased that our membership has continued to grow once more, and in every category, which shows our message is getting through, as our position as the premier community group in Pontefract.

Moreover, I am pleased to report that three of our working groups are now in a stronger position following my personal invention, though others could do with more active members.

I always say, with more volunteers, we can do more, and that is a proven fact. Some members may feel if we don’t get volunteers, we’ll just scale back our activities, and prioritise, though that makes me even more determined to lead an active Civic Society by encouraging members to get involved, and to work hard recruiting new members. As I said this time a year ago, I shouldn’t have to attend every working group to ensure an annual plan of work is prepared, signed off, and then delivered.

WORKING FOR PONTEFRACT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WAKEFIELD MDC

Throughout the year, I’ve had in person and online meetings with officers and elected members at all levels and across various departments, and Phil Cook has equally contributed to most of these meetings. Examples are:

• Teams such as Markets, Festivals Events & Tourism, Highways, Armed Forces Day Steering Group, the cross-team Pontefract Delivery Group, and Arts Heritage & Culture supported by Heritage Lincolnshire

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OTHER LOCAL GROUPS

BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT

MEMBERSHIP BY TYPE

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STAKEHOLDER WORKING AT NATIONAL AND REGIONAL LEVEL

PUBLIC RELATIONS

GOVERNANCE, ADMINISTRATION & LOGISTICS

NOW FOR 2024

To repeat what I said a year ago, more of the same from 2024, with the things that will make the Civic Society be effective - more delegation, more new members, and more active members.

In leading Pontefract Civic Society’s board of trustees for another two years (if re-elected), my role will ensure that the promises made 12 months ago continue to be delivered and strengthened, my objectives being:

Paul Cartwright - Chair, Board of Trustees

PATRON’S ADDRESS

A highlight of the PCS year for me was being able to attend the Away Day Plan on 21st July 2023.

It is always a good thing to involve members in looking at the full range of activities provided and having ideas on how they can be improved and developed. It was so encouraging to see at first-hand how enthusiastic were the members in coming up with ideas and potential plans for the future. Khalid Rasool was an excellent facilitator. I hope I am not giving away state secrets but there were five important highlights coming out of the day. These being:

  1. The need to constantly increase community awareness and engagement with the Society

  2. The need to review and enhance the online presence of the Society

  3. Organise diverse events and initiatives

  4. To develop and strengthen corporate relationships and fund raising

  5. Undertake a regular evaluation exercise on all that is being provided by the Society and adapt when necessary

A classic example of number 3 was the very successful WheelFest event which saw many visitors who surely would have boosted the local economy that day. Congratulations to Phil Cook and his team in not only organising and promoting this event but also showed an innovative approach to the use of the town centre.

I am so impressed with the range of activities of the Society and the role played by its many volunteers that I encouraged the Chairman in 2023 to look at the possibility of seeking a nomination for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This award, if achieved, is personally signed by the King and has MBE status. The Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire presents the award. I understand a nomination has been made and wish the Society every success.

Michael Sayles Fox DL - Hon Patron

PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS

Although the memory of the Covid 19 pandemic for many people is fast receding as we readjust to normal life, the effects of it are still very much with us and have badly affected many organisations, slowing down recovery in many ways.

But over the last year or two, in spite of challenging trading conditions, we have seen several new businesses opening up in Pontefract; though few have been shops in the traditional sense, most are in the hospitality or service sectors. Ropergate in particular has been radically changed with several new cafe bars opening over the period and this process is not yet complete.

I’m delighted to report that the Society has been very closely associated with these developments and has worked hard to

recognise and reward good work when it has been done to a high standard and this has been publicly recognised in our Annual Awards event. In particular, the Civic Society has worked hard to support businesses by being sponsors and supporters of many events throughout the summer months, designed to bring visitors into the town in their thousands. In addition to the traditional Liquorice Festival and the events associated with the Castle, Park and Valley Gardens, the Civic Society hosted a highly successful WheelFest in the town centre, which promises to be bigger and better this coming summer. In addition to this a 1940s themed weekend is planned to add to an already impressive series of events. All this we hope will lead to a perception of Pontefract as a vibrant and interesting place to visit, with a warm welcome to all.

All this requires much hard work to put in place and I must thank members of the Civic Society for all their efforts in bringing these events to fruition. I must also thank Wakefield Council, with whom we have a good working relationship, for their help in what we seek to do.

Notwithstanding these highly visible public events, the Society has also hosted a successful series of monthly public talks, while behind the scenes, our various committees work continually to improve different aspects of the town’s life and these are reported on elsewhere in this report.

Finally, I would like to emphasise that we are not an inward-looking closed clique of people who simply wish to complain and bewail our situation. We are open to new ideas and we welcome into the Civic Society all those, both as workers or supporters, who love Pontefract and want to see it prosper. Why not come and join us? It only remains for me to extend my customary thanks to our Chairman and the Executive Committee for all they have done over the past year and for their astonishing work ethic.

Peter Cookson - President

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CITIZENSHIP ACHIEVEMENTS 2023

CITIZENSHIP REPORT

We had hoped that in 2023 we would be able to reform our Citizenship Group and become more active than in previous years.

Unfortunately, due to personal issues at the start of the year, this was not to be. Despite this set back, the Community Showcase returned to the town hall in March and by mid-year, the group was back in full flow although low in members. This engagement was helped by partnering with KLH Events for WheelFest23 and Liquorice Shoots, and also engaging more with schools and developing our partnership between local educational providers, town centre businesses, and community groups, such as Pontefract Art Club.

WheelFest23 was a new event and was built on the back of the successful Jubilee market in 2022 which included a small vehicle show in Beastfair; this idea was expanded to create WhelFest23. 2023 saw its own event with 80 vehicles of all ages and categories being displayed in most areas of the precinct, with a full day’s programme of entertainment. This included a character parade of mascots and other costumed characters from various local organisations and sports teams – we even had Stig and Mini Mouse. The day was a massive success, not only for the civic society, but the town, our local businesses, and those charities which attended raising around £4000. From data supplied by Wakefield Council, we can say that the day attracted 10,000 people in addition to the day’s normal footfall. The feedback was brilliant from the exhibitors and the public, ensuring that this event will be run again in 2024, with a difference; the addition of a one-day 1940’s event in Ropergate. There will be a road closure allowing for street decorations harking back to WWII, with displays and exhibits, local history information, entertainment and dancing, allowing businesses to join in the theme, taking advantage of increased footfall. Shortly after the success of WheelFest23 followed Liquorice Shoots. This was brought about from the Council review of the 2022 two-day Liquorice Festival, which was less successful than envisaged, and we were informed that 2023’s Liquorice Festival would revert to a one day event. This was seen as an opportunity for the civic society to create a Saturday warm-up event prior to the annual Liquorice Festival.

Our initiative was welcomed and fully supported by council colleagues. The civic society was fully determined to make sure that a weekend of events would work. Working with KLH Events, we looked for businesses to join in and create a new event called Liquorice Shoots. The key emphasis was that this was a community event, not on the same scale as the Liquorice Festival. Our event was a great success despite being held on one of the wettest days of the year!

Through Michelle Grainger’s contacts, we staged a Fun Dog Show in support of The Prince of Wales Hospice, as well as a character parade, live music, and over 40 craft stalls across the

town complementing the regular Saturday market. WheelFest and Liquorice Shoots were only achievable by working closely with the Wakefield Council events team, and with support of local councillors and businesses. Moving forward, these two events will see sponsorship opportunities for businesses to join in and promote themselves. Both events were fully reviewed afterwards which gave us the confidence to expand further in 2024, expanding WheelFest24 into Ropergate with a 1940’s day, and the potential for additional entertainment zones.

Later in 2023, we re-established our partnership with 13 local schools, including St. Giles Academy, and Pontefract Academies Trust, and this partnership is still growing. At the end of the year, we had meetings with most school heads or deputies to scope out joint opportunities for 2024. It is safe to say that we are very excited with how this will develop in 2024, though as always, we needed new members for the Citizenship Group.

To this end, a successful meeting was held in November, attended by 13 invited people, all of whom are involved in community projects, activities or organisations. The purpose was to strengthen the group’s delivery, and look at further opportunities to promote our town and its community. I also announced that we wished to change the name of the Citizenship Group to reflect what the group actually does; to date, we have not been able to agree a suitable name to match breadth of activities and responsibilities which includes youth, business, promotion, membership, and more. We would welcome any ideas for names that you may have.

I am delighted at the way the whole team has taken this group forward, whilst adapting to changing circumstances and the support given to myself during my recovery, making it possibly, one of the busiest and active years we have ever had.

DECORATION SQUAD REPORT

Over the years, the Decoration Squad has accumulated numerous display which are in storage; these were reviewed and checked for damage and refurbishment. It was decided that the Liquorice display needed to be fully refurbished, and further displays were introduced for Liquorice Shoots, namely life-size Bertie and Betty Bassett, who we understand for 2024 will be expecting a new arrival.

The team also created a union flag for display on the town hall along with the King’s cypher to mark the Coronation, and Remembrance Day decorations were refurbished. A new light display was made for the Magistrates Market, unfortunately it did not deliver the impact we had hoped for, and this will be repurposed for 2024. The north of the town centre is an area of concern which lacks Christmas decorations.

As always we are grateful for public support through the donations of recycled bottle bottoms for our displays, and long may that continue. ma

DECORATION SQUAD ACHIEVEMENTS 2023

Phil Cook - Citizenship Group Coordinator

FUTURES GROUP REPORT

We have embarked on a comprehensive strategy for the civic society to enhance vitality by increasing membership, fostering stronger business and community ties, and boosting fund-raising initiatives.

A key component of this strategy involves the promotion of cross-generational engagement, aiming to create a more unified community that values the contributions of all age groups. In pursuit of this goal, we have placed significant emphasis on evolving the society’s digital footprint to better connect with the community and showcase its activities. Integral to the development of these strategic initiatives was a collaborative session where the Futures Group met in July with the board, working group coordinators, and key members. This half day board ‘away day’ was crucial for fleshing out individual strategies, ensuring a cohesive and unified approach to achieving the society’s objectives.

By organizing inclusive events and enhancing online engagement in 2024 and beyond, the Futures Group is dedicated to solidifying Pontefract Civic Society’s presence as a pivotal part of the community, driving forward into a promising and interconnected future.

Khalid Rasool - Futures Group Coordinator

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HIGHWAYS GROUP

The Highways Group met twice in 2023, in advance of meetings with Wakefield MDC Transportation officers.

At these meetings we were able to gain more information on the following current highway issues, which the group will continue to review in 2024:

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Our Group will continue to meet regularly in 2024, and we are always pleased to welcome new members to the Group.

Anthony Dee - Highways Group Coordinator

RAIL REPORT

The Rail Group met eight times, about every six weeks in 2023.

Group members have maintained contact with Northern Rail and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority discussing the changes to the timetables in May and December. Trans Pennine Express have now introduced a Manchester – York service replacing the former Northern Huddersfield – Castleford service. We welcome the news that Grand Central have acquired additional trains to improve their reliability.

As members of Railfuture, group members attend and contribute to their regular Yorkshire Branch meetings, their on-line webinars and articles in ‘The Yorkshire Rail Campaigner’.

All three Pontefract stations are now part of Community Rail Partnerships and Northern Rail Station Adoption schemes. These will give us various chances to access training, opportunities to network with other station groups and financial grants to improve our stations. In 2024 we are planning to involve the local community, local schools and New College in the provision of posters at Tanshelf station.

In November 2023 a planning application was submitted to Wakefield Council for the replacement of the footbridge at Monkhill Station with a new footbridge including lifts. It is anticipated that the construction will be completed during 2024 and we aim to be involved in the opening of the new bridge.

Baghill Station Building – We found that protection of the fabric of the station building and the search for new tenants proved difficult because The Arch Company, who are responsible for the building, have been slow in responding to our efforts.

We will continue to promote the need to extend rail services beyond the West Yorkshire boundary at Knottingley to Doncaster and Goole as part of our ‘Connectivity Agenda’. We will continue to support the Friends of Askern Station in their efforts to reopen their station as this would offer the potential for a regular Pontefract – Doncaster service.

Our meetings will continue throughout 2024 and anyone interested in rail services locally is always very welcome to join our Group.

Dave Hogg - Rail Group Coordinator Complied by Anthony Dee – Rail Administrator

TALKS & TOURS REPORT

Last year, saw a full programme of 10 talks, two special events, but no tours; the latter were postponed due to low numbers.

We are not sure how to manage this in 2024, and we are seeking your feedback for the way forward.

The talks season began in

January with our own Peter Cookson showing various vintage railway shots around Pontefract from Peter’s vast photographic archive, alongside a matching current image of the same view. This event was particularly well attended and had the audience spellbound by what we have lost.

February’s talk also had local interest with the history of Pontefract Statutes Fair up to 1945. It was incredible to learn of live ammunition being used to shoot at actual glass bottles in the rifle range! Part 2 of this talk will be in April, 2024.

A late problem in March caused us to change the advertised subject to the History of the Post Office, when former Post Office worker John Lyte stepped in to give us the complete history of the Royal Mail. John started with the Mail Coaches and ended with the mass closure of local Post Offices, of which we are all too familiar. John also bought along some of his historic stamp collection for us to view.

In April we decided to try something totally new. Local magician, Ray Roberts thrilled the audience with a series of mind-boggling tricks and details of how he entered the world of Magic. This was a great success and Ray will be returning in October, 2024.

Actor Chris Cade returned in May, this time as Isambard Kingdom Brunel, sporting the famous stove pipe hat which was Brunel’s trademark. Chris astounded the audience with his usual flair and historical accuracy. Chris will be performing for us again in November, 2024.

Former prison Governess Veronica Bird returned in June to give us her life story entitled ‘From Prison to Palace’. Starting with her troubled childhood, going in to how she advanced her career, adding in details of some very notorious prisoners.

In July, we welcomed Dewsbury historian, Stuart Hartley told us about famous Yorkshire folk in his talk ‘What made Yorkshire Great’. This was followed in September by a rare insight into the many

Circuses in Leeds city centre around the Victorian era. We heard tales of strange acts and eccentric showmen. Also in September, the fabulous Haley Sisters returned to the Town Hall for our first extra event of the year. They gave an awesome performance and their father’s high-speed yodelling was the highlight of the show for many.

In October, local Civil War expert Dave Cooke finished off his series of talks on the sieges of Pontefract Castle. It was incredible to think that some of the events he described only happened a few yards away from where we were sat!

The last talk of the year was given by myself in November, entitled ‘A Day in the Life of a Yorkshire Coal Miner’. I described the methods of modern coal mining and what life was actually like working underground.

Also at the end of November, we held our second Christmas Double Bill event. The format was the same as the previous year, with actor Chris Cade performing his rendition of Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’. As Chris does not use a script there were subtle differences from his previous performance, including a lot of audience participation who had been furnished with suitable hats! A large chain clanking on the floor added further intrigue to the Ghost of Christmas Future scene.

After a mince pie and coffee at the interval, it was the turn of local professional musician who performs as ‘Underdrive Johnny’ to entertain us. He started with the Beatles and then played classics from most decades, doing a few requests on the way. A moody rendition of Chris Isaak’s Wicked Game was my own personal favourite. The evening ended with Slade’s Merry Christmas Everybody, and a good time was had by all.

I must end with a big thank-you to all members of the team who make these events possible. Also an extra thank-you to our new team members, who have made such a difference this year.

Dave Hogg - Talks & Tours Group Co-ordinator

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PLANNING GROUP REPORT

The Planning Group meets on a monthly basis at changing locations in the town centre, focussing, in the main, on planning applications submitted to the Council. These applications are for properties, mainly in the town centre, with some in the surrounds and the documentation can be accessed via the Council’s planning portal.

In our meetings we discuss the relevant proposals, sometimes following a visit to view the property and on occasions meeting with the applicant in order to discuss their application, giving our views/experience and perhaps gaining an insight into the rationale of the property changes. In many cases, after consideration, we make comments on the portal, with a summary of ‘support’, ‘object’ or ‘neutral’.

We also ‘walk around town’, both individually and as a group, in order to view and appreciate the changes in our town. Over the past year, Pontefract’s night-time economy has received a significant boost with developments along Ropergate and there has been an increase in the number of applications regarding town centre apartments, which is viewed as a positive.

Viewing the town centre as a whole, the retail sector is doing well in terms of the relatively low number of vacant retail units, especially compared to other towns/cities in the vicinity. However, one worrying feature is the number of vacant large units in the Salter Row and Woolmarket area.

Our ‘town walks’ highlight another worrying aspect, especially when looking above street level at the properties. Some of the buildings, occupied by both local and national retailers, are in desperate need of some TLC, which would enhance their visual attractiveness and assist the preservation of the buildings themselves (wins all round).

The Planning Group’s other main focus culminates in the annual Design Awards, which takes place in January, having assessed projects completed over at least a 12 month period to around the end of October, or slightly later. Awards are presented to property owners and tenants who have made changes to their property (including new builds), recognising and celebrating their hard work and investment in the town, whilst matching the criteria of our seven award categories.

Our assessment builds upon our review of the planning applications, which is the theoretical aspect of the process for what is intended. This is followed by the applicant undertaking the work and developing the property into the finished project.

Our group reviews planning applications, as outlined above, then ‘watch’ the physical development and finally the end result, all the while considering the changes. Group meetings create a ‘long list’ of potential contenders is drawn up. Further discussions and some consultation visits will reduce the number of contenders, from this a ‘short list’ is drawn up for final evaluation, the end result being the nominees and winners in each category.

The Planning Group would like to take this opportunity to thank all ‘contenders’ for their hard work and investing in Pontefract and to say that the recipients of awards were worthy ‘winners’.

We have also reviewed the council’s Local Plan 2036, and contributed to meetings of the Prince of Wales Liaison Group coordinated by the Harworth Group.

OUR 2024 ACTION PLAN:

Philip Henfrey - Deputy Planning Group Coordinator

HERITAGE GROUP REPORT

The day Harrogate U3A came to town - On Wednesday 29 March, we had the pleasure of hosting 45 visitors from Harrogate U3A, who arrived by coach at 9:45am, and departed at 3:30pm, having had a fantastic heritage day with our volunteers and Wakefield Council teams.

I planned the day in conjunction with the Harrogate organiser, Heather Law, who said afterwards, “I want to say thank you to you and all of your team. Everybody thoroughly enjoyed it and the feedback was really good. I heard comments such as ‘a really good, full day out’, ‘we learnt a lot’, ‘Pontefract was impressive’, and ‘we’d no idea there was so much history there’. Thank you to Paul, an excellent guide”.

It was a real pleasure to start in the Town Hall and Assembly Room, then walking around the town centre, visiting the museum, and after lunch onto the castle.

We had the assistance of Rosemary Barnes, Yorkshire Blue Badge Guide, who’s a Civic Society member, plus there were four other members in support, one of which was the purple-clad town crier, John Turner, who equally impressed the visiting party.

All the King’s horses and all the King’s men - During April, group members created three presentations which were published on our social channels ahead of the coronation of King Charles III. Our thanks go to Linda Benson-Henfrey and Derek Norfolk for curating these video slideshows, which are still available on Facebook:

• A look back at how Pontefract celebrated the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II

When military came to town - On Saturday 17 June, Wakefield Armed Forces Day in Pontefract Park coincided with our national umbrella organisation’s ‘Civic Day’; whilst this is community event, it does have heritage content, and is therefore worth including here. Considering that a week earlier we’d staged WheelFest23, the biggest community event in our 50+ year history, then we did not plan an additional event specifically for Civic Day. Both WheelFest23 and our support for Armed Forces Day were in effect our contributions showing ‘pride in place’ and connecting with our community.

Our PR stall was there to raise awareness, to sell books and merchandise, as well as to engage with very young people with our Tesco-funded heritage croquet game, containing local photographs and historic information. The kids were polite and everyone really enjoyed the time to play and learn about the town’s history. We managed to get eight members to volunteer at different times, helping to set up, and cover the day in shifts, with Derek Norfolk being the guide for a walk around Pontefract Park focused on its military connections across time. We just needed to pack away until our stall was out again for Liquorice Shoots Saturday 8 July, and the Liquorice Festival on Sunday 9 July in Friarwood Valley Gardens.

As a member of the AFD Steering Group, I promoted all that was going on at AFD before, during and after the event using our social

channels. Unfortunately, the Battle of Britain Flight was curtailed for operational reasons, though the Lancaster bomber did fly over the local area after the event, around 7:40pm.

Town Crier joins our family - John Turner has been a member for a few years, though his services were managed elsewhere, and we had the pleasure of a healthy partnership. During 2023, we officially brought the role under our wing, and we have some exciting things planned, led by John, for 2024.

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS

Festival records best ever success! - With over 60 in person and online events in 10 days, we stretched our geographical reach to Hemsworth, Womersley, Kellington and Pollington, whilst not forgetting our core of Pontefract town centre and its four conservation areas.

26 events were brand new, and we engaged with many partner organisations and places which were new to the festival. Examples include Archbishop Holgate Almshouses, RAF Snaith Museum, Pomfret Gallery, eight of the new bars in Pontefract staged entertainment, churches in Kellington and Womersley, and Pontefract Choral Society; this was a remarkable collective achievement.

Regular attractions included the town hall, the racecourse, masonic hall, Darrington farming walk, the Rosse Observatory, Pontefract Castle and the library.

The number of attendees topped 1,200 and could easily be more with some unreported numbers. Top of the leader board was RAF Snaith Museum, followed by All Saints Church and St Botolph’s Church. We were really pleased with the positive response from all of our partners and the general public who were both enthusiastic and really interested in Pontefract’s rich heritage. All of our 800 comprehensive booklets went, which were funded by a culture grant from Wakefield Council. Visitors from across Wakefield district and far beyond really enjoyed the variety in our extensive programme, and I was pleased to see some faces at multiple events, which must suggest that we’ve got it right; some new members joined in the weeks that followed.

Paul Cartwright - Interim Heritage Coordinator Supported by Phil Henfrey - HOD Coordinator

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DESIGN AWARDS 2023

On Tues 30 Jan, Pontefract Civic Society hosted its Design Awards for 2023, in the Georgian Nelson Room of Pontefract Town Hall in front of a gathering of business and property owners, architects, contactors, representatives from Wakefield Council, and civic society members.

Civic Society Chair, Paul Cartwright said “this is an evening to celebrate regeneration projects which enhance the historic streetscape and open spaces of Pontefract as a place for residents and visitors to shop, relax, and enjoy.” The civic society presented the Countess of Rosse Façade of the Year award Headhunters, a two year project, based on the façade’s bold and distinctive colour scheme and signage over all three floors of this potentially 16th century jettied timbered framed building. Headhunters were nominated in three categories and they walked away with two justifiable awards.

Jenine Hunter, owner, said, “I’m absolutely blown away to be entered into so many categories, and to have won two of them, makes all the hard work worthwhile. I can’t thank everyone that voted for me enough, and for all their kind words about my project”.

Other awards presented on the night were:

Civic/Commercial: Indoor Market Hall Special Commendations: Pontefract Park Play Area Regeneration Award: No. 23/Erubi Residential Award: WDH Newport House Heritage Award: Red Lion Improvement Award: Headhunters

Philip Henfrey, civic society planning group deputy coordinator, said “Our assessments start with the planning applications, followed by walking around the town checking the changes as they take place, and then suitable nominees are visited to discuss the work with owners; it’s a year-long activity for us” .

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Façade of the Year 2023 - Headhunters, 35 Market Place

Regeneration Award - Erubi, 23 Ropergate

Special Commendation - Wakefield Council Play Area, Pontefract Park

Residential Award - WDH Newport House Stuart Road, Pontefract

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2023 AWARD WINNERS

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Improvement Award - Headhunters, 35 Market Place
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Commercial/Civic Award - Wakefield Council
Pontefract Indoor Market, Market Place
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TRUSTEES

Role Name Role Name
Chair Paul Cartwright Planning Coordinator Peter Taylor
Vice Chair Phil Cook Highways Coordinator Anthony Dee*
Secretary Vacant non-trustee
Treasurer Ian Wood Talks & Tours Coordinator Dave Hogg
Citizenship Coordinator
Rail Coordinator
Interim Heritage Coordinator		 Phil Cook
Dave Hogg
Paul Cartwright		 Futures Coordinator
Co-opted
Co-opted
Co-opted_(from Aug)_		 Khalid Rasool
Dr Colin White
Peter Ferrari
Karen Pullin

OUR WORKING GROUPS

Heritage Award - The Red Lion, 12 Market Place

Citizenship Rail Heritage Planning Phil Cook (C) Dave Hogg (C) Paul Cartwright (Interim C) Philip Henfrey (D) Vacant (D) Philip Henfrey (D) Vacant (D) Vacant (C) ~~a ee~~ Vacant (A) Anthony Dee (A) Vacant (A) Vacant (A) Paul Cartwright Ian Wood Philip Henfrey (HOD Coordinator) Christine Cartwright Christine Cartwright Peter Cookson Phil Cook Paul Cartwright Carol Trueman Rosemary Barnes John Turner Evelyn Westwood (C to Sept) Rhona Crichton (from Nov) Paul Cartwright Linda Benson Henfrey Mike Farrell (from Oct) Charles Atkin (from Nov) Chris Hyomes Derek Norfolk Peter Taylor Sonia Atkin (from Nov) Tony Hames Diane Atkinson (from Jan) Richard Hirst (from Nov) Keith Shenton (from Dec) John Turner (from Nov) Karen Haddock (from Nov) Lynne Hartley (from Nov) Joanne Browning (from Nov) ) Highways Talks & Tours Futures Business Anthony Dee (C & A) Dave Hogg (C) Khalid Rasool (C) Paul Cartwright Vacant (D) Colin White (D) Vacant (D) Phil Cook Derek Vaux Diane Atkinson (A from March) Vacant (A) David Hogg Paul Cartwright Paul Cartwright Peter Cookson Mollie Garbett Phil Cook Paul Cartwright George Gott (from March) Peter Ferrari Tony Hames Tracy Gott from March) Derek Norfolk Chris Walker (from March) Ian Wood (from March) Phil Henfrey (from March)

C – Coordinator - D – Deputy Coordinator - A – Administrator

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REPORT OF TRUSTEES FOR THE PERIOD ENDING 31ST DECEMBER, 2023

The Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the period ended 31st December, 2023.

PUBLIC BENEFIT

In furtherance of the said purposes, but not otherwise, the Society through its Executive Committee shall have the following powers:

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the SORP accounting policies set out by our Treasurer.

  1. To promote civic pride in the area of benefit.

  2. To promote research into subjects directly connected with the objects of the Society and to publish the results of any such research.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Pontefract Civic Society is a registered charity governed by constitution. The organisation is viable by self-generated income from subscriptions and events. Project funding is developed through grant opportunities. There are no plans to recruit an Executive Director, and we intend that the trustees will continue to manage the charity on a voluntary basis. In the long term, paid roles may be considered, should new income or grants sustain a different business model.

  1. To act as a co-ordinating body and to co-operate with the local authorities, planning committees and all other statutory authorities, voluntary organisations, charities and persons having aims similar to those of the Society.

  2. To promote or assist in promoting activities of a charitable nature throughout the area of benefit.

  3. To publish papers, reports and other literature.

  4. To make surveys and prepare maps and plans and collect information in relation to any place, erection or building of beauty or historic interest within the area of benefit.

RECRUITMENT AND APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES

As set out in the Constitution, the Chair of Trustees is nominated by the membership. The trustees are set out in this report and are those in place at AGM. The Board of Trustees has the power to coopt trustees, as necessary.

  1. To hold meetings, lectures and exhibitions.

  2. To educate public opinion and to give advice and information.

  3. To raise funds and to invite and receive contributions from any person or persons whatsoever by way of subscription, donation and otherwise; provided that the Society shall not undertake any permanent trading activities in raising funds for its primary purpose. To acquire, by purchase, gift or otherwise, property, whether subject to any special trust or not

TRUSTEE INDUCTION AND TRAINING

The Trustees maintain a good working knowledge of charity, charity law and best practice, supported by attendance at charity training courses, as deemed applicable. This whole area is always under review in order for us to take advantage of opportunities as they arise; we should never stop learning.

  1. Subject to such consents as may be required by law, to sell, let, mortgage, dispose of or turn to account all or any of the property or funds of the Society as shall be necessary.

  2. Subject to such consents as may be required by law, to borrow or raise money for the purposes of the Society on such terms and on such security as the Executive Committee shall think fit, but so that the liability of individual members of the Society shall in no case extend beyond the amount of their respective annual subscriptions.

ORGANISATION

The Charity is controlled by a Board of Trustees. The day to day running of the charity is led by the Chair and Vice Chair with other trustees in specific roles, as required.

CHARITABLE OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

  1. To do all such other lawful things as are necessary for the attainment of the said purposes.

The Society is established for the public benefit for the following purposes in the area comprising Pontefract and District, which area shall hereinafter be referred to as “the area of benefit”:

We do this by organising membership events and reaching out to non-members to attend public talks and meetings in accessible locations and venues.

A number of free public meetings are organised and publicised, which ensures the Society remains accessible, financially viable and sustainable.

The total spend on public benefit was £9,571.

We have supported a number of organisations and events: St Giles with St Mary’s Pantomime Society (£135), Pontefract in Bloom (£564), Friends of Friarwood Valley Gardens (£218), The Prince of

Wales Hospice (£360), The Royal British Legion (£27), WheelFest23 (£1,322), Liquorice Shoots (£1,631), Liquorice Shoots Schools Art Trail (£780), Heritage Open Days (£1,415), Decoration Squad (£320), Talks (£762), Christmas (£126), Marketing (£1,911)

RISK MANAGEMENT

The trustees have a risk management strategy which comprises:

  1. An annual review of the risks.

  2. The establishment of systems and procedures to mitigate risk.

  3. Implementation of the procedures designed to minimise any potential impact should those risks materialise.

ROLE AND CONTRIBUTION OF VOLUNTEERS

Pontefract Civic Society celebrates its commitment to a diverse and skilled volunteer team, and whilst some members have worked hard, it has been patchy, though with some successes recently. There remains much more to do, and volunteers of all backgrounds and experiences are openly welcomed especially transferable skills from professional or community organisations which can benefit the civic society, thus ultimately, the town.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

The Statement of Financial Activities showed a surplus of £6,050.

RESERVES POLICY

In accordance with the advice of the Charity Commission, the charity aims to hold unrestricted reserves at levels of approximately 12 months of budgeted unrestricted expenditure, to meet unforeseen costs and statutory obligations.

FUTURE PLANS AND DEVELOPMENTS

The main priority continues to be to create a blend of experience and ‘younger blood’, supplemented by relevant governance controls and trustee training, to deliver operational plans:

Paul Cartwright - Chair

VICE CHAIR’S REPORT

As most will be aware, 2023 started with a personal challenge for myself after having a serious stroke in late December, 2022.

I would like to thank all for the support I received poststroke during this difficult time; also, my thanks to those who had confidence to re-elect me while still adapting to the changes. I am pleased to say that whilst I had stepped down from a lot of meetings, I am now back at full capacity. During my recouperation, it allowed me time to focus on developing some new ventures for the civic society benefitting residents and businesses alike. By April, I had recovered enough to carry on with most of the role of Vice Chair. So, on reflection, I believe that 2023 has enabled the civic society to become more integrated in the town’s future. This includes the promotion and development of the tourist and visitor experience, with the civic society being seen as the first point of contact by Wakefield Council when looking at events for the town, and being involved in the major developments in the town’s infrastructure.

At our 2023 AGM, we announced the long-awaited Community Group Award, which had been on hold due to COVID and other reasons. The 2023 winner will be announced at our 2024 AGM.

During 2023, Wakefield District Housing restructured their neighbourhood panel meetings which I attend representing the civic society as an independent member. Whilst the full effects of the restructure are yet to be determined, it has given a further insight into the work done, further allowing the civic society to have a voice at WDH.

I was pleased to support the Friarwood Festival as safety advisor once more, and to give input to event management, both roles I will continue in 2024.

In July, our trustees away day was hosted at the Red Lion Hotel.

As an advocate for the town and its community, I was also pleased to represent the civic society at various meetings with local Councillors and officers, examples being the Events team and Markets team, where we were able to have direct input into the town’s events and the indoor and

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VICE CHAIR’S REPORT CONT....

outdoor market changes. In short, 2023 has been a year of ups and downs, but it definitely ended on a high note when I was able to reflect on all the success we’ve had in the year. So 2024 is now here, and plans are already in place for WheelFest24 incorporating a 1940’s Day, then Liquorice Shoots, and much more. We will need support on these event days to ensure they’re a success, so if you feel you can volunteer, please come forward.

VICE CHAIR HIGHLIGHTS 2023

TREASURER’S REPORT

I am pleased to present the Treasurer’s report for 2023. I can confirm that all expenditure has been correctly dual authorised, prior to processing payments promptly, when due, and properly allocated/ accounted for. I would once again like to thank Christopher Hyomes for an effective independent examination of our 2023 Annual Accounts. '

2023 has been another year of considerable activity, a far cry from the earlier years during which restrictions were imposed on the Society as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The summer saw several successful community events organised and run by the Society including WheelFest and Liquorice Shoots. Once again various events centred around the Christmas period were also held.

Our income in 2023 (£21,626) was broadly in line with that of 2022 (£22,508).

2023 income is made up principally of grants amounting to £6,922 the majority of which came from Wakefield Council, annual subscriptions of £4,794 and revenue from events of £4,896.

Annual subscription rates were increased in 2023 and this combined with an increase in memberships particularly in the community group category yielded an overall increase in income of 12%.

A substantial donation of £3,185 was received from The Crescent Project which has been ring-fenced for future community projects, in line with that group’s constitution.

Our net costs in 2023 after adjusting for the transfer of funds between accounts amounted to £15,576 which was considerably lower than in 2022 (£32,905). This difference can be put down almost entirely to a significant reduction in grant funded expenditure from £20,981 in 2022 to £5,516 in 2023. The most significant costs incurred in the year were grant funded expenditure (£5,516), events and meeting costs (£3,547), and PR materials (£2,325). In keeping with previous years the Civic Society has made donations to various local organisations amounting to £1,229, the principal benefactors being Pontefract in Bloom and The Prince of Wales Hospice. Other aspects of the Society’s expenditure are either broadly in line with or below that of the previous year.

The accounts reflect a net cash inflow in the year of £6,050 (2022 outflow of £10,397). Cash reserves as at 31st December 2023 stood at £20,387, 75% of which (15,232) has been ring-fenced for future projects.

Ian Wood -Treasurer

DONATIONS & BEQUESTS

Have you thought of making a donation to Pontefract Civic Society during your lifetime, or leaving us some money in your will?

Pontefract Voice and our Annual Reports show the tremendous work the civic society does to make Pontefract a better place; new projects always need support. The civic society is both independent and non-political.

We would be absolutely delighted if you would make a donation or a bequest. Both the Chair and Vice Chair are available if you wish to discuss this in more detail.

ANNUAL ACCOUNTS 31 DECEMBER 2023

INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

INCOME 2023 2022
Annual subscriptions received £4.794 £4,295
Gift aid £- £776
Blue plaques £- £-
Grants £6.922 £11,913
Donations £3,565 £522
Events revenue £4,896 £3,065
Book, calendar, mug, pen and badge sales £1,269 £1,826
Recharge cost of design award plaques £180 £111
Legacies £- £-
SUB-TOTAL £21,626 £22,508
INCOME FROM MONETARY ASSETS
Transfers between accounts £3,598 £3,390
Loan £- £-
Bank interest £- £-
TOTAL INCOME £25,224 £25,988
EXPENDITURE 2023 2022
DIRECT CHARITABLE EXPENDITURE:
Civic Voice £251 £176
YHACS £50 £50
Railfuture £25 £25
Community Rail Network £90 £0
Events & meetings £3,547 £2,607
Donations £1,229 £633
SUB-TOTAL £5,192 £3,491
OTHER EXPENDITURE INCURRED:
Membership refunds £- £-
Insurance £1,208 £730
Printing & Postage £317 £254
Loan to Civic Voice £- £500
Grants expenditure £5,516 £20,981
Transfers between accounts £3,598 £3,390
Book Printing £- £-
Calendar Printing & Envelopes £- £1,055
Mugs & Boxes £- £150
Pens £- £160
Business support costs £168 £97
PR Materials £2,325 £3,074
Website & Other Software Costs £60 £115
Travel costs £11 £-
IT Equipment £- £1,563
Membership related costs £779 £735
SUB-TOTAL £13,982 £32,804
TOTAL EXPENDITURE INCURRED £19,174 £36,295
OVERALL EXCESS/DEFICIT OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE £6,050 -£10,397
STATEMENT OF ASSETS OF LIABILITIES AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 2023 2022
MONETARY ASSETS
Barclays Community A/c (current) £20,387 £14.337
Paypal A/c £- £-
Totals £20,387 £14,337
RECONCILIATION OF CASH MOVEMENTS TO BANK BALANCES
Opening bank balances
Total cash receipts
LESS: EXPENDITURE		 £14,337
£25,224
£19,174
~~_~~		 £24,734
£25,898
£36,295
TOTAL CASH INFLOW £6,050 -£10.397
CLOSING BANK BALANCES £20,387 £14,337

Treasurer: I Wood (2023) I have examined the Receipts and Payments for the Year 2023 and found them to be in accordance with the records and vouchers produced. Christopher Hyomes - Independent Examine r - Date: 31 Jan, 2024

P Cartwright - Chairman - Date: 3 Feb, 2024

www.pontefractcivicsociety.org.uk

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Friends of Friarwood Valley Gardens • Friends of Pontefract Park • Liquorice Singers • Pontefract Art Club • Pontefract Collieries FC Pontefract Heritage Partnership • Pontefract in Bloom • Pontefract Choral Society • Castleford & Pontefract Lions Club Pontefract Rugby Union Football Club • St Giles Centre • Pontefract Rotary Club • Carleton Running Community Featherstone Male Voice Choir • St Giles with St Mary’s Pantomime Society • Prince of Wales Residents Association The Urbane Commune • Pontefract Calligraphers

For more information, contact us by email: info@pontefractcivicsociety.org.uk or visit us on social media: ‘ @PontefractCivic

With thanks to Five Towns Print and Design, for the design and print of the Pontefract Civic Society Annual Report 2023

www.pontefractcivicsociety.org.uk