.,Charity Trustees, Annual Report NOrthn +fer1d Re Chari Charl ort Details Name: dre Comber Non-subscrlblng Presbyterian Church [CNSPC] 15 Windmill Hill, Comber, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 5WH NIC100413 01 January 2023 31 December 2023 Structure Governance & Administration Details Trustees: Position Name Dates of Offlce Ifn f rfull olnt ear Trustee Mr. S. H. Semple Mr. W, A. Carson The Non-Sub5cribing Presbyterian Church of Ireland Trustee Company Congregatlon Congregation Congregation Trustee Trustee (Company) arer Position Name Dates of Offlce , If not for full ear ointed Minister Session Clerk Synod Representatlve Presbytery Representative Hon. Secretary Rev. l. Gilpin, B.A., B.D. Mrs. A. Anderson Presbytery Session Congregation Congregation Congregation Vacant Vacant To April 2023 From April 2023 Mrs. J. Newell Mr. P. Whyte Honorary Treasurer Mr. G. Campbell Sunday School Superintendent Mrs. E. Lynch Free-will Offering Administrator(s) Mr. R. Grace i Building Fund Administrator Mr. R. Brown Child Protection Designated Mrs. J. Dempster Person{s} {Designated) l Mrs. E. Lynch (Deputy) Rev. l. Gilpin Mrs. A. Anderson Mrs. J. Newell Mrs. J. Newell Mr. H. Russell Congregation Session Congregation Congregation Congregation Organist Cleaner ! Honorary Health / Fire Safety Officer To April 2023 To April 2023 Committee Committee Congregation Page l of 14
.,Charity Trustees, Annual Report lor Nthe[n IielarKI Position Dates of Office If not for full ear ointed Session & Committee Committee Committee Session & Committee Committee Session & Committee Committee Committee Session & Committee Committee Committee Committee Session & Committee Commlttee Session & Commlttee Sesslon & Committee Session & Committee Session & Committee Session & Committee Session & Commlttee Session & Committee CommSttee Committee Mrs. A. Anderson Mr. R. Brown Mrs. M. Burnside Mrs. N. Burrows Mr. G. Campbell Mr. W. A. Carson Mr. A. Charles Mrs. J. Dempster Mr. R. Ferguson Mr. R. Grace Miss. L. Low Mr. A. McKenzie Mrs. E. Marshall Mr, H. Miller Mrs. J. Miskelly Mr. J. Montgomery Mrs. J. Newell Mrs. S. E. Newell Mr. R. A. Robinson Mr. S. H. Semple Mrs. G. A. Spratt Mr. N. Walker Mr. P. Whyte Congregation Sub Committee Members: Flnance & Internal Auditors Mr, G. Campbell Mr. R. Grace Mr. R. Brown I Congregation Type of Governing Document: Trustee Selection Method: Nominated External Examiner: Constitution Congregation (at A.G.M or E.G.M) Mr. D. Bennett Aim and ur oses The CNSPC, in co-operation through the directly employed incumbent (the Reverend lan Gilpin), provide our aims and purposes in promoting the inalienable right of every Chrlstian to search the records of Divine Truth (The Scriptures of the Old and New Testament) for their own instruction and guidance, to form their own opinions with regard to what they teach, and to worship God in sincerity, agreeably to the dictates of their own conscience, without privation, penalty, or inconvenience inflicted by their fellow-men. Page 2 of 14
Charity Trustees, Annual Report Noflhein Ife+and The CNSPC is also speciflcally responsible for the provision and maintenance of the Church complex at Windmill Hill, Comber, where persons can feel welcome and safe for the purposes of worship, ceremony, or community activities. Ob'ertives and Activities The CNSPC is committed to enabling as many people.as posslble to worshlp at our meetlng house (Church) and to become part of our community in Comber and the surrounding area. The CNSPC maintains an overvlew of worship throughout the local area and makes suggestions on how our services can involve the many groups that live withln our local area. Our services and worshlp put falth into practlce through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. When plannlng our activities for the year, the incumbent, the CNSPC Commlttee and the CNSPC Trustees have consldered the Charity Commission's guldance on public beneflt and the specific guidance on charlties for the advancement of religion. In particular, we try to enable all persons to Ilve out thelr selected falth as part of our local area communlty by: l. Providing weekly religious meetlngs and a children's Sunday school where teachlngs and guidance are provlded through the Scrlptures of the Old and New Testament. 2. Provldin8 financial support through freewlll offerlngs and collections for a number of charities. 3. Providin8 meaning to Ilfe & spiritual well-being, development of spirltuality as well as providing a moral and ethlcal framework to Ilve by. This provides comfort, solace and a sense of purpose and a150 benefits the wlder society. Increasing congre8atlon numbers as well as long founded member numbers help support our servlces to the society. 4. Providing a means, through rellgious teachings and support, where persons can flnd purpose In life and Increase mental and physical health whlch assists in recovery from illness. 5. Provlding a rneeting house (Church) where persons can feel welcome and safe for the purposes of worshlp or ceremony. Sacred spaces are also provided for burial and mernorial purposes. 6. Providlng a Church Hall for the purposes of individuals, groups, and entertainment events. 7. Providing support through a dedicated Minister, friends, and spiritual teachings to ald the resolve of grief and find further meaning to life. 8. Providing services for rituals and ceremonies such as Baptism and Marriage. 9. Providin8 financial as well as education opportunities for Students and Ministers. Flnancial support through an Auxiliary Fund and the provlsion of a meeting house and associated buildings for the furtherance of the Students or Mlnisters education. This includes the invitation of other religious charities to conduct services within the meeting house. Achievements and Performance Owing to the splritual nature of the church's objectives It Is sometirnes difficult to quantify achievements; however we have in the past year undertaken the following activtties: Page 3 of 14
.,Charity Trustees, Annual Report lof INoilhefn lielond Kirk Session Re 0rt- 2023 2023 saw the return to a new normal, Church attendance continues to grow averaging 33+ approx . The Sunday School has also shown an increase, both of whlch is an encouraging sign as members grow in confidence following Covid Guidelines and Restrictions. Visiting Clergy Our thanks to the following visiting ministers who covered or were invited to take our mornlng service in the absence of Rev Gilpin: Rev Dr Linda Ballard, Rev Chris Wilson and Rev Brlan Cockcroft. Ministerial Duties Alongside his duties as Minister of Comber Congregation our Minister is Minister -In-Char8e of the small rural congregation of 8allyhemlln. Our thanks to both congregatlons on the support shown to each other for Special Services. The Mlnister contlnue5 hls other dutles: Transferor Governor on the Board of Governors at Comber Primary and Andrews Memorlal Primary Schools Active member of the Comber Clergy Fellowship Conducts occaslonal Servlces, with some Choir Members in local Nurslng Homes Officiates at the Annual Titanic Memorial Servlce, hosted Jolntly by Belfast Tltanic Soclety and Belfast City Council Organist Our thanks and gratitude to Mrs Jennifer Newell who stepped down as Organist after 29 years and her commltment on the varlous roles she played in the life of our Church. However, we are delighted she wlll contlnue to play the organ on the last Sunday of each month. The remalnin8 Sunday servlces wlll be accompanied by Rev Noel Willlamson, Mr Csaba Szabo of Moneyreagh and when not available a CD will be played and monltored by Mr Keith Burnside. Our thanks and gratitude to all for their support. Elders Elect The process for election of Elders is time consuming however, a notice for the nomination of Church Elders was issued in February resulting in 6 acceptances and 6 who declined with possibility of future acceptance. The Ordination and Installation of the Elders Elect will take place in January 2024. Communion Sacrament of Communion continues to be held twice annually (May and October). In May the Minister was assisted by Mrs Audrey Anderson (Reserve: Mrs Nan Burrows) and Mrs Sheila Newell assisted in October. Page 4 of 14
Charity Trustees, Annual Report loi ther0 keland Full Attendance Full Attendance Sunday was a joint celebration with the Coronation of King Charles111. The service was very well attended by friends and families and the PSNI Male Voice Choir who performed a nurnber of special pleces of music. A retiring collection for the PSNI Benevolent Fund totalled £IOOO.00. Our thanks to the Guild and au volunteers who decorated the Church, the Hall and providing a feast 'fit for a Kin¢. Harvest The morning Haest Seniice was led by the Rev Brian Cockcroft who deputised for hls wife, Rt Rev. Lena Cockcroft, Moderator of the General Synod due to illness. The evening service was conducted by our Minister, Rev lan Gilpin and Comber Lily of the Valley Accordian Band provided the muslc. December Calendar Friday 08.12.23 Sunday School Party in the Church Hall Sunday 10.12.23 12.00 noon Sunday School Natlvity in the Church Hall 7:30pm Service of Carols/Lessons, music from Comber Music Club and refreshments afterwards In the Church Hall Service of Carols/Lessons taken by Elders Elect 12:00 noon servlce wlth soloist Cormac Thompson (grandson of Mr and Mrs Robert Morrison) 11.30 Servlce 12 noon Service Sunday 17.12.23 Sunday 24.12.23 Chrlstmas Day Sunday 31.12,23 Sunday School The Sunday School continues to flourish under the guidance of Mrs Emma Lynch (Superintendent) and Mrs Nadine Dorrlan. Numbers, as experted fluctuate however we are still one of the most successful Sunday Schools With 29 youn8 people (down 6 from January) on our Roll. The impact of Covid has resulted in slow return to full capacity of many Sunday Schools In the Denomination and as such, the Denornlnational Sunday School Conference In June had to be cancelled. We are hopeful that glven tlme the decision will be reversed. The young people contlnue to show enthusiasm in their Sunday School work and particlpate in their Prize Giving Day in June and the Nativity Service in December with lessons, prayers and muslc. They have also played an important role in Mothering Sunday (includlng distribution of flowers to all Ladies In the congregation) and our Family Service, October. General Synod / Presbytery The Annual General Synod Meetlng took place In Coleralne and was attended by our Mlnister, Rev lan Gilpin. Representative Elder for Presbytery of Bangor and General Synod is being sought. Our appreciation to Mrs Audrey Anderson who previously held the position. Page 5 of 14
. Charity Trustees, Annual Report Ic¥ INoithwn Iieland Mrs Anderson récently resigned from her position as Clerk of Session however has confirmed she wlll continue her position as Clerk. Mlss Lynda Low, Elder Elect attended the Quarterly Presbytery Meeting in November as an Observer. Charitable Contributions Comber congregation continues to support the follov¥iing Charitable bodies: 8Iy(hswood Annual Shoe Box Appeal (97 boxes this year) Dean of St Anne's Appeal {£700.001 Annual Poppy Appeal And the following Denominatlonal Charitable bodles: 8enevolent Fund The Orphan Soclety Ministers Widows Fund Students and Ministers Fund Bodel-mackenzle & Porter Benevolent Funds (Widows and Spinsters) Births and Marriages The Moderator offlciated at 8 Sacrament of Baptlsm's and offlclated at 3 marrlages. As a con8regatlon, we extend God's blessln8 on all new members of our ¢on8regation and our best wlshes to the young couples In their future Ilfe together. Deaths Our Minlster offlciated at 2 funerals in respect of our Ballyhemlin Con8regatlon and I funeral at our Mountpottinger Congregation. He was also approached by a further 6 famllles to officiate at loved one's funerals. In true Chrlstlan spirit we respond sympathetlcally to all those who look to our Church In tlme5 of need and who may not have a formal Church connection. An acknowledgement of the high esteem in which our Congregation is held by the wider Community. It is also with great sadness we report that the Moderator officiated at the funerals of 13 members of our congregation. We extend our condolences and prayers to those affected by the passlng of loved ones who we remember with fondness and love: Mr Eric McKibbln Mrs Francis McRoberts (nee McGrath) Mrs Jean Smyth (nee Martin) Mrs Jean Smyth (nee Mcmurray) Mrs Agnes Burgess (nee Carser) Mr William Rainey Mr David Mcmillan Page 6 of 14
Charity Trustees, Annual Report t N¢>lhein Ifeland Mrs Christine Cleland (nee Hiles) Mr John Robinson Mr Francis Lindsay Osborne Mr William lan Brady Mrs Edna Harris (nee Flnlay) Mrs Phyllis Wllson (nee Bennett) On reflection, the past few years have been stressful for many stru8glln8 With Covid and the restrictions placed upon us. It was therefore a joy to celebrate the Coronatlon of Kin8 Charles111 with such outpourlng of love, Joy and hope for the future and the growth of our Church and Sunday School. We look forward to startin8 the new year with the Ordination and Installation of new Elders and offer our gratitude to them In their acceptance of same as we continue to assist the Mlnister in the spiritual needs of the con8regatlon. With God's blessings may we continue our Journey together in faith and love. The year has also seen our Minister undergo some health Issues that has caused stress and concerns for him and his family. As would be expected, he has adopted to minor changes and continues to lead our Church, On behalf of Kirk Session and Committee we extend the hand of friendship and offer assistance to him with assurance we are on thls journey together. In concluslon we offer our support, continued good health and God's blessings to Rev lan Gilpln and hls family. Clerk of Sesslon- Mrs Audrey Anderson Committee Re ort 2023 The Church Committee met on flve occasions throughout te year, instead of the 10 scheduled meetings, due to a combination of unavailability and illness. However, these five meetings ensure the overall life of the Church continues to move forward. The Finance, and Property & Grounds sub-committees undertake a huge amount of unseen work to ensure that our finances and buildings remain stable and the grounds look well for the congregation and the many people who visit the church or walk through the grounds. A significant progression this year was the amalgamation of the Ladies Guild Account (although small) into the main Church bank account which will allow all sections within the Church to enjoy the benefits of charity registration and gift aid. Another important annual task is the work undertaken by Harry Russell and Alan Charles to ensure the Entertainment's Licence for the Church is granted. Page 7 of 14
. Charity Trustees, Annual Report lot Noithein Iieland The Church Hall'continues to be used regularly by the following groups: Windmill Country Music Club Comber Flower Club Sunday School Ladies Guild We hope to see the return of Silver Wings Country Music Club and usage by an Ulster Scots group going forward. As a Commlttee, we are grateful for the work of our Minster and Mrs. Lynda Low plus many other volunteers who prepare the Church Hall for these events and ensure the hall is cleaned regularly. As well as our usual denomlnational charlty provislon, we also held retiring collections for our sister church In Cork that has suffered a significant fire. Our regular services continued throughout the year, and we had a special service and tea party to celebrate the Coronation of Klng Charles111. In attendance where the RUC Male Voice Choir who entertained a full Church, before everyone enjoyed a tea party In glorious weather. Overall, this year has seen the Church return to normality after the Covld years, which is to be welcomed by all. This return to normal requires ongoing work by a dedicated bunch of volunteers, led by our Minister who ensure the Church life continues moving forward. I would like to take this opportunlty to thank all Committee members for their patience and advice as I have taken on the role of Honorary Secretary. Lastly, I would pay tribute to my predecessor, Jennifer Newel. Only by undertaking the role that Jennifer performed for many years do l understand the work that is involved. In addition to this, Jennifer was also the Church Organist and Cleaner. Being a male l am unable to rnulti-task to the level Jennifer did but we should all be grateful for the many years of volunteering undertaken by Jennifer. Hon Secretary- Mr Peter Whyte Sunda School 2022 & 2023 Sunday School 2022 Following the suspension of Sunday School on account of Covid restrictions, then their removal and finally return to normal, we resumed on Sunday May 8th It had been just over 2 years since we, In accordance with Government rules, suspended our meetings. We were delighted to welcome 24 children on the first day, not only returnees but also several new faces. Before the end of term, our Sunday School Roll would increase to 36 young people. A credit to them and to their families. Page 8 of 14
. Charity Trustees, Annual Report loi Nor1hn lie+an Mrs. Nadine Dorrian returned as a teacher, to be joined by Mrs. Emma Lynch. Making up the corps was Rev. Gllpin assisted on certain Sundays by Mrs. Sandra Gilpin. By consensus, Mrs. Lynch became Superintendent with Mrs. Dorrian as Assistant. The new term went In very quickly wlth a regime of refreshments on arrival, some limberlng up activities, and then the lessons themselves. Very much hands-on wlth some innovative approaches. All-too-soon- we had the end of tern Seniice on June 19th in which the children excelled themselves In music (both coral and Instrumental), wrltten, and spoken pleces. It was a 8reat Service and It all fely very 'normal' I The actual Prize glvlng consisted of 21 children recelvlng their prlzes for 201912020 (curtailed by Covid) and 36 children receiving theirs for 202112022. Quite a marathon but richly deservedl A blg thankyou to Cecil Kittel and Staff at Comber Post Office for the very generous discounts recelved on the books etc., purchased for the day. Thls was also the opportunity to pay trlbute to Mrs. Beth Marshall (former Superintendent and Teacher), Mrs. Shelia Newell (former Teacher), and Mr, Sidney Semple (former Sunday School Treasurer) who had stepped down (at various stages) from their respective posltlons after many years distingulshed servlce. The Sunday School would mark these noteworthy accomplishments with suitable presentatlons. Following the Summer break, we resumed in early Septernber with 35 young people on the Roll. It was good to see everyone back and eager to get 8olng agaln. The successful format of the previous term was bullt upon and in October we had our Family Service, again the young people excelled themselves and all present really appreciated the Service. With the chlldren being off school for Halloween, a very successful trlp to the cinema In Newtownards was or8anlzed and enjoyed by all, Irrespective of age. Following a short break for the Autumn half term it was back to work, Themes covered included Communion, Harvest, remembrance, Advent and Christmas preparations. This year, the children's Nativity Service took place in the Church Hall, making good use of the stage. Thanks to: Mrs. Lynch and Mrs, Dorrian for constructing the Service in such a way as to include all the children; Mr. Keith Burnside for work on lighting and sound; Mrs. Jennifer Newell for music and tuition; and all others that helped. Another well received innovation at the end of Service was a very lavish buffet style lunch. All the young ones received a selection box. Thankyou to Raymond Barr, Manager of Supenialu, for the very generous discount received. Also, a big thankyou to Mr. James Montgomery for hls personal generosity towards all the young people of the Sunday School. Mr. Montgomery has been exceptionally kind to all the young one at Christmas, Easter and many other times in the year. Although following Covid, our own Sunday School in Comber resumed, this was not generally the case elsewhere. In the wider Denomination, many Sunday Schools had either not yet reconvened or, in number of cases, sadly had closed. Accordinglyj there were no Denominational Sunday School activities urin8 the year. This meant that the Annual Sundayschool Conference (n June drd nat happen. Page 9 of 14
,, Charity Trustees, Annual Report Northwn Ife+ond I would conclude by placing on record my appreciation to Mrs. Emma Lynch and Mrs. Nadine Dorrian for their professionalisrn, dedication, and enthusiasm throughout the year. It has been a pleasure to work alongside them. I would also thank our Congregation and friends for the support and encouragement they have given both to the Teachers and Children. It means a great deall We can all say 'it's good to be back, and that 'normal-service has been resumed'l Rev. lan Gllpln Sunday School 2023 Following the break for Christmas, the children returned In January, refreshed from their holidays.. very quickly everyone got back into a good routine with refreshments, warm up activlties and lessons and craft actlvltles on Biblical themes. In February we marked the 150th annlversary of the blrth in 1873 of Thomas Andrews tiunior), Thls enabled the children to understand that once upon a time, Thomas Andrews Junior was a little baby, then toddler, then a chlld. I was a very successful day. th The children and parents were actively Involved with the Mothering Sunday Servlce on March 19 , whlch saw and excellent turnout of members and friends. In addltion to readings and prayers there were also a number of Musical pieces, sung and instrumental. As traditional, all ladies present (and some who weren't) received a beautlful arrangement of sprlng daffodils, which really added to the atmosphere. Sadly, glven that the number of Sunday Schools stlll elther hadn't reconvened following Covid or had ceased functioning, the Denominational Sunday School Committee reluctantly took the decision to cancel the Annual Spring event in Lisburn where tradltionally the children particlpated In a variety of activities, It was disappolnting that it couldn't 80 ahead. On a more positlve note, the Chlldren recelved pretty substantial Easter eggs Just prlor to the Easter break. A big thankyou to Tesco (Newtownards) for their generosity. Also, to Mr. James Montgomery for his generosity towards all the children with an additional supply of Easter eggs, something he has been doing now for over twenty yearsl To celebrate the Coronation of hi5 Majesty, King Charles111, we had a special afternoon service in the Meeting House on Sunday May 7th with nearly 300 adults and children in attendancel The weather was absolutely perfect and as they arrived, all children received a Coronatlon Goody Bag. The day was a resounding success and the Hall, Marquee, Gazebo and beautiful lawns were filled to overflowing of folk who really relished the Celebrations. Regrettably the Denominational Sunday School Committee felt that an Annual Conference in June couldn't be organizedowing to a number of Sunday Schoofs that had not yet restarted following Covid. However, Page 10 of 14
The Charity Trustees, Annual Report NlAli kelarKI the Children of Our Sunday School followed items on the Syllabus and completed a number of questions. On a positive note, it was hoped that an event might take place in the Autum. Preparations were in hand for the Sunday School Prlze Day in Comber on June Ilth and much of the Children's work was on display in the Meeting House for the Service. Everything looked really well. The Children had put in a great deal of preparatlon for the Service with readings, prayers, songs, and a variety of musical instrument pieces. We were delighted when Mrs. Irene Kirk (nee 8rady) agreed to present the young people with their prlzes, all 35 of theml This marked what by all accounts had been a very successful Sunday School year. Thanks must go to Cecil Kittel and staff at Comber Post Office and also Clyde of Hardys for their generous support with the purchases of prlzes etc. Also, Ards Evangelical Bookshop for the generous discount in respect of the books which were bought. Sunday School resumed on September 10th after a well-deserved summer break for the children and teachers alike. By the end of the term, we would have 29 Children on the roll wlth a good regular attendance throughout. The successful format of refreshments on arrlval, followed by warm up activities then Sunday School work wa5 continued and Is well received by everyone. Preparations were qulckly underway for Famlly Sunday October 1st which was very successful. The chlldren undertaking readlngs, prayers, and a varlety of musical pieces prepared in advance. The service was very well supported by family and friends alike. The months of October and November were occupled with work focuslng on the themes of Harvest, Communion and Remembrance. It wasn't all hard work as the chlldren enjoyed a trip to the Ice Bowl followed by refreshments at the nearby McDonalds. This was a half term treat. All-too-soon the children were busily engaged with all the work in preparation for the Natlvlty Play which th was very successfully presented in the Church Hall, on December 10 making excellent use of the stage. The children excelled themselves and were well supported by family and friends. A really nice initiative was to provide a lavish buffet style lunch in the Hall at the conclusion of the Servlce, which everyone really enjoyed. Another hlghly commendable initiative from the Comber Sunday School was to organize a very successful th Christmas Party in the Church Hall on Friday December 8 to which all the Sunday Schools in the Denomination were invited. We were pleased that both the Moderator, the Rt. Rev. Lena Cockroft, and the Sunday School Convenor, the Rev. Stephen Reain-Adair were also able to attend. 2023 was a very successful year for our Sunday School and I pay tribute to our Superintendent, Mrs. Emma Lynch, and Assistant, Mrs. Nadine Dorrian, for their dedlcation and commitment without which we sirnply Page 11 of 14
- Charity Trustees, Annual Report loi Northetn Ifeland would hot have'the successful Sunday School we have. It is a privilege to work alongside them and glve them support and assistance. Rev. lan Gllpln Church Finances Note: See also se arate accounts breakdown A customary 'thankyou' to all members & visitors for their continued trust, generoslty & support throughout the year. 2023 was another relatively tOU8h year for us financially. We are all glad the Covid impact Is nearly at an end but the recent impact of the Ukraine war on costs again keeps us watching the pennles. Income & Expenditure: Our Income for the year totalled £65,197 which, although is an increase of around 9% compared to last year, our expenditure reached £80,706. Increase5 in expenditure malnly extended from property maintenance. Our main sources of funding are from dlrect glvin8 by members wlth over 70% of our Income derlved frorn Freewlll Offerings, Property Maintenance Contrlbutlons, Stlpends and Sunday Collections - all demonstratlng the contlnued 8eneroslty of our Church members. Our Investments performed well again wlth dlvldend income of £8,769 (approx. 6% return). Our total Investment value, which had recovered well from 2020's slump, dropped only slightly from £152,691 to £149,150. The Influence of Wars around the world have had, and will have, Ilkely continued influence on our Investments going forward. Our congregatlon numbers remain statlc wlth donations growlng slightly with the upturn of online banklng and monthly standing orders. Fuel costs have increased by around 10% from last year. Unfortunately, Gift Aid was not claimed in 2023 (including 2022 and 2021) but will be reflectlve In 2024's accounts to a figure circa £20k (already claimed at time of drafting). Glft Ald has immense value to our Charity no extra cost to our congregation or visitors. By simply registering with us for Gift Aid, your donations automatically grow by 25% (as long as you are still paying income tax) Donations remain lower than pre-covid due to our Church Hall not back to full utilisation (yet). Donations totalled around £6,100 and I would like to make special note of the following donations received throughout the year: £I,000- K Watson £690- Windmill Country Music Club £500- J Andrews & Co £2000- Family of Late Geor8e & Edna Grace (Legacy Donation) Page 12 of 14
.,Charity Trustees, Annual Report lof N<Nthern liek7nd The generous support we receive from clubs and indlviduals greatly helps us in maintaining the Church and Hall for the local community. Our maln Item of expendlture thls year was for property repairs (including our trees and lands) and accounted of our 41% of our annual expenditure with second notable expendlture being our Ministry which accounted for another 41%. Fund Raising & Charity Donations Our Christmas Craft Fair finally returned for 2023 and raised a wonderful £1,260. There was no annual BBQ again in 2023. We have always been known as a generous congregation & that generosity contlnued wlth an amazing £7,494 going to good causes as we continued to support local, national and denominational charities. Legacies As mentioned above, there was a very generous Legacy Donation (and was Gift Aided) from the family of and in remembrance of George and Edna Grace. Prevlous rnatured and donated legacles from post 2023 are stlll to be relnvested with M&G Charlfunds. Close The 2023 accounts still reflect the increased costs which remaln from outside influences. They do however reflect well on the stability of our Churches finances, even in tlme of uncertainty. Our investments continue to dellver well, and your contributions remain Steady, whlch makes it easier to meet the financial demands placed upon us and helps us plan with more certainly when fundSn8 future projects to keep the church properties & grounds in the fabulous state they are currently in. None of this could be dellvered without your continued support. The Congregatlon's and vssitorfs generosity continues to amaze me each year, especially in comparison to other larger congregations. I finish by thanking everyone, on behalf of the Finance Committee, for the generoslty, trust & support in us and hopefully we have repaid that by maintainin8 our Churches finances to withln acceptable limits. Hon. Treasurer- Graharn Campbell Reserves Polic Our reserves policy has been agreed for the retention of at least l yearfs average expenditure (£70k rounded to the nearest £IOk) within our bank accounts. This is to be held in our Santander Deposit Account, when possible, taking account of our current outgoings. Any yearly surplus is expected to be split between charity donations and re-investments. Page 13 of 14
,, Charity Trustees, Annual Report loi Norlhein Ife+ond Declaration The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees, report above. Signed on behalf of the charitvs trustees (At least one trustee to Si8n) Signature r frtlS i4/14¥N Io/uh* of 7&5-tsS Date Full name I dh4J LAI L Page 14 of 14