COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: N1024103
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: NIC105286
The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Financial Statements
31 March 2023
AUBREY CAMPBELL & COMPANY
Chartered accountants & statutory auditor
631 Lisburn Road
Belfast
BT9 7GT

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Financial Statements
Year ended 31 March 2023
Page
Trustees, annual report (incorporating the director's report)
Independent auditor's report to the members
Statement of financial activities (including income and
expenditure account)
Statement of financial position
Statement of cash flows
Notes to the financial statements
The following pages do not form part of the financial statements
Detailed statement of financial activities
Notes to the detailed statement of financial activities
15
16
17
18
34
36

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report)
Year ended 31 March 2023
The trustees. who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the
financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2023.
Reference and administrative details
Registered chartty name
The Somme Association
Charity registration number
NIC105286
Company registration number N1024103
Principal office and registered 233 Bangor Road
office
Newtownards
Co. Down
BT23 7PH
The trustees
Mr A McFarland
Mr E Holmes
Mr J Monteith
Mr L Cree
Mr L Logan
Mr V Deshpande
Mrs E Hoy
(Resigned 3 August 2022)
Auditor
Aubrey Campbell & Company
Chartered accountants & statutory auditor
631 Lisburn Road
Belfast
BT9 7GT

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) f¢ontinuedJ
Year ended 31 March 2023
Structure. governance and management
Governing Document
The Somme Association is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporaled on 26 January
1990. The companywas established under a Memorandum ofAssociation which established the objects
and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles ofAssociation. In the event of
the company being wound up, members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £10 to the
Charity's assets if it should be wound up while he or she is a member or within one year after he or she
ceases to be a member for payment of the ¢harity's debts and liabilities contracted before he or she
ceases to be a member and of the costs, charges and expenses of winding up and for the adjustment
of the rights of the contributors among themselves.
Recruitment and Appointment of Trustees
The Directors of the Company are also charity Trustees for the purpose of charity law and under the
company's Articles are members ofthe SommeAssociation. Under the requirement of the Memorandum
and Arti¢les of Association, the Trustees of the Somme Association Board are elected to setve for a
period of three years after which they must be re-elected at the next Annual General Meeting. All
members of the Board give their time voluntarily and receive no benefit from the charty. Any expenses
reclaimed from the charity are set out in the accounts.
Organisational Structure
The Somme Association has a Board of Trustees of 6 members who, meet quarterly or more frequently,
if required. The Board is responsible for the strategic direction and poli¢y of the Charity.
The Director of the Somme Association, attends meetings of the Board, but has no voting rights.
Day to day responsibility for the management of the charity is delegated to the Director, who is
responsible for ensuring that the charity delivers the services in accordance with tts objectives set out
in the Memorandum of Understanding, and that key performance indicators are met. The Director has
responsibility for the day to day operational management of the staff at the Somme Museum and at the
Ulster Memorial Tower, and for ensuring staff members continue to develop their skills and working
practices in line with good practice.
History
The Somme Association was fomied in 1990 with the aim of educating the public and commemorating,
on a cross-community basis, the role played by Irish men and women in the First World War. It
administers the Ulster Memorial Tower in France, and in 2004 purchased Thiepval Wood through a
grant from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure. It has over the last few years carried out
archaeological excavations of the trenches in Thiepval Wood, from where the Ulster Division made its
historic charge on the 1st July 1916. The Wood was opened for guided tours in July 2006 and work
Gontinues on the original First World War trenches. The Association also owns Craigavon House in
East Belfast, former home of Sir James Craig, Northern Ireland's first Prime Minister and Central figure
in the Home Rule Crisis.
The Somme Heritage Centre opened in 1994 and became a fully accredited museum in 2002 under
Museums, Libraries and Archives (MLAUK). The Trustees of the Somme Association decided to change
the Museum's name to Somme Museum in 2014 and this was approved by Museums, Libraries and
Archives in the same year. The Somme Museum (SM) operates as an educational facility, independent
museum and as a tourist attraction.
The Museum examines Ireland's role in the First World War with special reference to local cross-
communty involvement in the three volunteer Divisions raised in Ireland.. the 10th and 16th

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
{Irish} Divisions, and the 36th (Ulster) Division. It provides public access to educational material that
references the significant local historical, political, cultural and heritage context of the years 1910-22
and specifically in relation to the Battle of the Somme.
The Museum conducts outreach work with schools., providing learning materials and links with the
school curriculum. The Museum has also established relationships with a number of community and
voluntary sector organisations which it aims to develop particularly within the women's sector. Since
2000, the Museum has expanded into the Second World War and other modern international conflicts.
The key aims of the Museum include strengthening cross-community understanding and knowledge of
shared heritage, improving cross-border relationships, promoting reconciliation and building on
educationl outreach facilities and programmes - particularly towards youth and women. This supports
the Exe¢utive's statement that events will be organised under the principles of..
educational focus.,
reflection.,
inclusivity-,
tolerance..
respect-
responsibilty,. and,
interdependence.
The SM has an extensive collection of material from the First World War period and in the last number
of years a growing collection from World War Two.
In 1998, a'management Committee, was formed forthe SM, which in¢orporated members ofthe Somme
Association, Ards Borough Council. North Down Borough Council, and interested individuals with
educational, business and community relations backgrounds.
With the re-organisation of local
government, the structure of the Committee has changed and now includes three Councillors from Ards
and North Down Borough Coun¢il.

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (confinuodj
Year ended 31 March 2023
Objecttves and activities
Vision
To assist in bringing the people of the island of Ireland to a mutual understanding through the
commemoration and interpretation of the experiences of the men and women who lived, served, fought
and died in modern international ¢onfli¢ts.
Mission
To improve community relations through commemoration and education on the important role played
by Irish Soldiers in defence of freedom in the modern era in a balanced, accurate and entertaining
manner - through the provision of museum displays and experiences at the Somme Museum, and
through the visitor experience at the Ulster Memorial Tower and Thiepval Wood in France.
Values
The Somme Association occupies a unique posttion, in which it has the respect and support of the full
range of organisations and political parties representing communities from across the island of Ireland.
As a result, it is able to make a significant contribution towards building a united and shared community
in line with Northern Ireland Executive aims and priorities. The Association achieves this through
promoting a factual and balanced analysis of the events surrounding the First World War, in order to
educate all sections of our community in our shared history - a history which cannot be ¢laimed by any
one group to the exclusion of others.
The whole community of Northern Ireland will benefit through the development of a common
understanding of the commitment and sacrifices made by peoples from a Nationalist and Unionist
background as they stood and fought together on the Western Front during the First World War.
Although the story of the First World War is often told through the military and regimental museums in
Ireland, the Somme Museum provides a shared space where people from various backgrounds can
come to learn more about family members and the wider history of the war including the social and
political conditions that prevailed at home.
Through its professional approach in researching the history of the First World War, the Somme
Association is committed to addressing the need fora shared community set out by the Northern Ireland
Executive and works closely with and supports the education $e¢tor in developing material to support
the schools, curriculum requirements.
Our Key Aims
Our key aims are as follows..
- To strengthen our cross-communty standing, and knowledge of our shared heritage;
To improve Cross-border relationships.,
To build on our educationloutreach facilities and programmes particularly towards youth.,
To develop our exhibition areas to provide greater public access to material held by the Museum.
and,
To improve our collections and Collections management procedures.
Public Beneflt Statement
The Somme Association is satisfied that it adheres to the public benefit test set out by the Charities
Commission for Northern Ireland due to the objectives and activities it provides.

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees, Annual Report {Incorporating the Director's Report) (¢ontinued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Strategic report
The following sections for achievements and performance and financial review form the strategiG report
of the charity.
Achievements and performance
Somme Association.. Mr John Monteith resigned from the Board of Trustees in July 2022. On behalf of
the Board, the Chairman thanks him for his outstanding support for the Association over recent years.
Ulster Memorial Tower.. The Ulster Memorial Tower at Thiepval, France, was closed in March 2020 and
the couple staffing the site were ¢loseted in the stone tower throughout the Covid pandemic. France
eventually eased its restrictions and the site opened again in May 2021. However, continuing restrictions
in the UK continued to reduce visitor numbers. Under Ihe annual cycle, the Tower is closed to visitors
during December, January and February.
On 31st January 2023. unexpected resignation letters were received from the Tower staff, making
several pages of allegations against the Association and its staff. They also abandoned the Tower
accommodation. This caused serious difficulties over staffing and having to send a specialist team to
sort out the chaos at the Tower, and to prepare for public opening on 1st March.
A Trustee was tasked to investigate the allegations. It has taken some time to extract from the couple
written evidence to back up the claims made and the veracity of the accusations. A report to the Board
of Trustees will be made in due course. The Director was able to sort out the confusion and to find staff
to take over in France. The Board thank her and the other key volunteers who stepped in to stabilise
the situation.
Crai
avon House.. Craigavon House featured by name in the political agreement 'New Decade New
Approach,. However, the collapse ofthe Stormont institutions has prevented a solution being found. The
Association has continued to insure and look after the site and it is to be hoped that a solution to its
refurbishment and reuse may be found in due course. The Chairman and Director have continued to
meet with parties interested in developing a settled future for the House, including the Somme Nursing
Home.
Somme Museum.. With reductions in income and financial support, the Somme Museum was obliged to
reassess its methods of operation. Initially, it opened to walk-in visitors each Wednesday and on one
Saturday a month. These timings evolved into each Wednesday and Saturday. However, the Museum
has introduced a booking system for group visits and this has proved successful. The system for school
visits has returned to normal and this continues to be our main business. The Museum has operated a
very successful 'Christmas in the Trenches, experience in December 2022.
The Association has continued to work with the Heritage Lottery Fund over a grant application to fund
a management consultancy study into future possibilities for the museum, including where it should be
sited, and how it can be sustainably funded in order to secure its future.
Museum at Whites
ols.. The Chairman and Director have a series of meetings with Ards & North Down
Borough Council, throughout the year, regarding the development of Whitespots Country Park and
POS5ible development of a new gateway centre for the site.

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) fconflnuéd)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Financial review
The Somme Association has continued to operate in very difficult financial circumstances. The
Department for Communities has continued to fund Commemoration activities and exhibitions. The
Department of Finance has continued core funding for the Ulster Memorial Tower. The Association has
been successful in applications to support outreach activities. Discussions with the French tsx
authorities, with regard to the Association's liability to VAT, are ongoing.
The Association has continued in its efft)rts to transfer Craigavon House into suitable hands and there
are encouraging signs that a solution may emerge.
Plans for future periods
The Somme Association is encouraged to believe that funding for a study into the future of the Somme
Museum may be available shortly. The Association has continued to be in discussion with the
Department of Finance regarding potential refurbishment and enhancement of the Ulster Memorial
Tower Visitor Centre at Thiepval. The Association is seeking to ensure a secure future for the Somme
Museum, which provides such a unique educational and cultural experience. Discussions continue with
Ards and North Down Borough Council, and other partners. to construct a plan for the development of
the Museum. in parallel with the development of Whitespots Country Park
Trustees, responsibilities statement
The trustees. who are also directors forthe purposes of company law, are responsible for preparing the
trustees. 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 charity trustees to prepare financial statements for each year which give a
true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and the incoming resources and
application of resources, including the income and expendlture, for that period.
In preparing these financial statements. the trustees are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.,
obseNe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP;
make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material
departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume
that the Charity will continue in business.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate a¢¢ounting records that are sufficient to show and
explain the charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial
position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements Gomply with the
Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence
for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Auditor
Each of the persons who is a trustee at the date of approval of this report confirms that:
so far as they are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the charity's auditor is
unaware; and
they have taken all steps that they ought to have taken as a trustee to make themselves aware of
any relevant audit information and to establish that the charity's auditor is aware of that information.
The trustees, annual report and the strategic report were approved on 21 March 2024 and signed on
behalf of the board of trustees by..
Mr A McFarland
Trustee
Mr L Cree
Trustee

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Somme Association
Year ended 31 March 2023
Qualified opinion
We have audited the financial statements of The Somme Association (the 'charity') for the year ended
31 March 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure
account), statement of financial position, 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 FRS 102 The
Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {United Kingdom Generally
Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion, except for the effects of the matter described in the basis for qualified opinion section of
our report, the financial statements..
give a true and fair view ofthe state ofthe charity's affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of its incoming
resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting
Practice.,
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Somme Association
(continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Basis for qualified opinion
The Association has historically regarded trade at the Ulster Tower visitols centre, situated at Thiepval
(France). as exempt from 'Taxe sur la ValeurAjoutée' or TVA (French VAT}.
TheAssociation approached Triplet & Associés I'Triplet'), a firm ofattorneys based in Lille. in an attempt
to get assurance on the issue. The firm responded by email on 5th March 2020, detailing a number of
relevant advices and ¢onclusions. which appear to be contrary to this treatment, as follows-
(1) Revenue generated by the sale of hot and cold drinks, snacks, postcards, souvenirs and memorabilia
is subject to French VAT at the appropriate rale- and
(2) Unless exemption from filing is achieved (subject to a number of strict conditions, including
authorisation by the taxing authorities), French VAT must be accounted for on sales. and returns filed
from the month the threshold is breached.
Applying these guideline5 to recent trade at the Ulster Tower, the correspondence from the fim states
that..
despite the fact that taxable turnover is less than the upper threshold of É91,000 in 2017, they could
not conclude that an exemption was applicable to 2017 without turnover information for 2016.
in respect of 2018, the taxable turnover during the year exceeds the upper limit of £91,000.
Accordingly, even if an exemption can be applied to 2017, French VAT returns would need to be filed
at some point during that year.
in respect of 2019, given that in 2018 the threshold had been brea¢hed, French VAT returns would
need to be filed every month.
They continue by stating as the VAT threshold of E94.300 of sales was not breached for the 2020 or
2021 year, VAT returns would therefore not normally be required for those periods.
Triplet's correspondence to the Association alludes to the fact that the French tax authorities remain
completely unaware of vatable activity at the Ulster Tower, and it is therefore at risk of refusal to the
French VAT exemption regime which would have applied up to 2018 (and subsequently through to
2023}. They Gontinue by stating that theAssociation needs to apply to the French tax authorities for VAT
registration, providing an explanation of the 51tuation and, if relevant, applying for VAT exemptions
where possible {whilst providing appropriate draft French VAT returns).
In response, the Association engaged Triplet to file the necessary VAT returns for 2017 to 2019 this
was completed, by email, on 24th March 2020. As per discussions with the client they are yet to receive
a response from the French government departments of their submission. Accordingly, the Association
remains unable to demonstrably confirm their level of exemption from VAT (between 2016 and 2023
inclusive), and to accurately quantify the amount of VATwhich will become due (note that, to any liability
calculated, a penalty of 10 % will be applied plus late interest).
We ¢onducted our audÈt in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAS (UK)) and
applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are furthèr described in the auditols
responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the
charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial
statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Slandard, and we have fulfilled our other elhi¢al
responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audil evidence we have
obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our qualified opinion.

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditorfs Report to the Members of The Somme Association
(continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Material uncertainty related to going concern
In foming our qualified opinion, we have considered the adequacy of the disclosure made in note 3 of
the financial statements concerning The Somme Association's ability to continue as a going ¢oncern.
The statement of financial activity (SOFA) shows that the Association suffered a financial loss in the
year ended 31 March 2023 of £35,54712022: £65,865).
We acknowledge the Board's attempt to perform a financial review of the year ended 31st March 2024.
given the limited resources available, and in light of inherently uncertain times, both generally and for
the tourism and not for profit sectors.
Cash flow projections were not available, and the information presented was not substantively auditable.
Historically, although income in the fomi of government grants the backbone of the Association's
viability - has ultimately been received, the precise timing of any substantial sums has been sporadic.
Accordingly, we agree with the Board that an underlying material uncertainty exists which may cast
significant doubt with regard to the Association's ability to continue as a going concem, given:
the sporadic timing and quantum of government grants to cover core funding- and,
the indefinite nature of voluntary donations, sizeable or Othe￿iSe.
It is also noteworthy that long standing issues which may affect the viability of the Association in the
short to medium term, such as the sale of Craigavon House, sums owed to HM Revenue and Customs
in respect of PAYE and National Insurance Contributions arrears and the VAT status ofthe Ulster Tower
in France also linger.
Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial
statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information. 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 a5suran¢e conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other infomiation
and, in doing $0, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial
statements or our knowledge obtained in 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 there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material
misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there
is a material misstatement of Ihis other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
10

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Somme Association
fcontinuedj
Year ended 31 March 2023
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit..
the infomiation given in the trustees, report for the financial year for which the financial statements
are prepared is consistent with the financial statements., and
the trustees, report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and ils environment obtained during the
course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees, annual report
(incorporating the directors, report).
Ex¢ept for the matter described in the basis for qualified opinion section of our report as described
above, solely of the limitation on our work..
relating specifically to the tax status of the Ulsler Memorial Tower visitor centre in France, we have not
obtained all the inforrnation and explanations that we considered necessary for the purpose ofour audit-
and
relating specifically to the tax status of the Ulster Memorial Tower visitor centre in France, we were
unable to determine whether adequate accounting records had been kept.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies A¢t 2006 requires
us to report to you if. in our opinion..
returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us,. or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and the returns- or
certain disclosures of directors remuneration specified by law are not made; and
the directors were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small
¢ompanies regime and take advantage of the small companies exemption in preparing the directors
reports and take advantage of the small companies exemption from the requirement to prepare a
strategic report.
Responsibilities of trustees
As explained more fully in the trustees, responsibilities statement. the trustees (who are also the
directors forthe purposes of company law) are responsible forthe preparation ofthe financial statements
and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Irustees
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 ¢harity's ability to
continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable. matters related to going conGern and using the
going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either inlend to liquidate the charily or to cease
operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
11

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Somme Association
(continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Auditorfs 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 auditor's 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 non40mpliance 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:
Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities,
including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows..
the engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the appropriate
competence. capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-compliance with applicable laws and
regulations.
we identified the laws and regulations applicable to the charity through discussions with trustees and
other management; owe assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified
above through making enquiries of management and inspecting legal correspondence. and
identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly and the team
remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit.
We assessed the susceptibility of the charity's financial statements to material misstatement, including
obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by..
making enquiries of management as to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud, their
knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud,. and
considering the internal Controls in place to mitigate risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and
regulations.
To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we..
performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships;
tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions-, and
assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in determining the accounting estimates set
out in note 3 were indicative of potential bias.
In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with law5 and regulations, we designed
procedures which included, but were not limited to:
agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation.
reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance., and
12

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Somme Association
(continuedj
Year ended 31 March 2023
enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims.
There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws
and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is thal we would become aware of non-
compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with
laws and regulations to enquiry of the trustees and other management and the inspection of regulatory
and legal correspondence, if any.
Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error
as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.
As part of an audit in accordance with ISAS (UK), we exercise professional judgment and maintain
professional scepticism throughout the audrl. We also-.
Identify and assess the risks of material misslatement of the financial statements, whether due to
fraud or error, design and perfom audit procedures responsive to those risks, and oblain audit
evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not
detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error,
as fraud may involve collusion. forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override
of internal control.
Obtain an understanding of internal Control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures
that are appropriate in the circumstances. but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the internal control.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting
estimates and related disclosures made by the trustees.
Conclude on the appropriateness of the trustees, use of the going concern basis of accounting
and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events
or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern.
If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's
report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or. if such disclosures are inadequate
to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of
our auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may cause the charity to cease to
continue as a going concern.
Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the
disclosures, and whetherthe financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events
in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
13

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Somme Association
(continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned
scope and timing of the audit and significant audÈt findings, including any significant deficiencies in
internal control that we identify during our audit.
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charity's members. as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16
ofthe Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's
members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditorfs 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 charity and the Gharity's members as a body. for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions
we have fomied.
John M
nior Statutory Auditor)
For and on
alf of
Aubrey Campbell & Company
Chartered accountants & statutory auditor
631 Lisburn Road
Belfast
BT9 7GT
21 March 2024
14

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Statement of Financial Activities
{including income and expenditure account)
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
Restricted
funds Total funds
2022
Unrestricted
funds
Total funds
Note
Income and endowments
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Other income
39.158
107,000
13,343
146,158
13,343
61,364
1,500
208.881
6,880
14,378
1,500
61,364
1,500
Total income
100,522
121.843
222,365
231,639
Expenditure
Expenditure on raising funds..
Costs of other trading activities
Expenditure on charitable activities
Total expenditure
29.838
64,252
29,839
228,073
8,288
289,216
10,11
163,822
94,090
163,822
257,912
297,504
Net expenditure and net movement in
funds
6,432
{41.979)
(35,547)
{65,865)
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought foward
Total funds carried forward
(302,435}
(296,0031
888,479
586,044
651,909
846,500
550,497
586,044
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The notes on pages 18 to 32 form part of these financial statements.
15

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Statement of Financial Position
31 March 2023
2023
2022
Note
Fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets
17
858,619
894,974
Current assets
stocks
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand
18
19
7,246
13,149
12,569
7,969
35,898
9,936
32,964
53,803
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Net current liabilities
21
341,086
362,733
308,122
308.930
Total assets less current liabilities
550,497
586,044
Net assets
550,497
586,044
Funds of the charity
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds
846,500
888,479
{296.003) (302,435)
550,497
586,044
Total charity funds
23
These financial statements were approved by the board of truptees and authorised for issue on 21 March
2024, and are signed on behalf of the board by..
Mr A McFarland
Trustee
MrL Cree
Trustee
The notes on pages 18 to 32 fo￿ part of these flnanclal statements.
16

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Statement of Cash Flows
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
2022
Note
Cash flows from operating activities
Net expenditure
(35,547)
(65,865)
Adjustments for
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Accrued (income)lexpenses
36,830
(1,482)
37,223
257
Changes in..
Stocks
Trade and other debtors
Trade and other creditors
723
22,749
1,876
222
7,139
12,867
Cash generated from operations
Net cash froml(used in) operating activities
25,149
25,149
(8,157}
18,157)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of tangible assets
Net cash used in investing activities
(475)
{475)
Net increasel{decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
24,674
(12,105)
12.569
(8,157)
(3,948)
{12,105)
20
The notes on pages 18 to 32 form part of these financial statements.
17

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements
Year ended 31 March 2023
General information
The charity is a public benefit entity and a private company limited by guarantee, registered in
Northern Ireland and a registered Charity in Northern Ireland. The address of the registered office
is 233 Bangor Road, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 7PH.
Statement of compliance
These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with FRS 102, 'The Financial
Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republi¢ of Ireland,, the 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) (Charities
SORP (FRS 102)) and the Companies Act 2006.
Accounting policies
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis. as modified by the
revaluation of certain financial assets and liabilities and investment properties measured at fair
value through income or expenditure.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity.
18

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Accounting policies (continuedj
Going concern
In preparing the financial statements, the trustees have considered Ihe continued support of
funding organisations, financiers and creditors.
During the year ended 31 March 2023, the Association realised a net deficit of £35,54712022:
£65,865 deficit).
The Ulster Towerwas open to visitors for the full season in 2023 and the museum in Newtownards
has reopened to visitors on a part time basis and for prebooked group bookings. Profits generated
in Thiepval have been particularly important in years gone by and the return of tourist footfall to
the Ulster Tower and its environs is welcomed. And although the timing of grant income remains
an issue in terms of cash flow management, such income has been forthcoming, albeit to a lesser
extent than in previous years.
Although the Association remains committed to selling a property of significant local historical
interesl which has the potential to generate a considerable sum for the Association, sums owed to
HM Revenue and Customs have increased and, although confident that any potential VAT liability
will be manageable, the Association's status with regard to the Ulster Tower in France remains
unconfirmed.
The Directors are acutely aware of their obligation to monitor the going concern stalus. via
management's continued focus on current and anticipated income and expenditure. The return to
normality at Thiepval is tempered by the continued restricted opening hours at the Newtownards
facility, and reduced levels of pledged government grant funding into the 2023124 financial year .
Liabilities accruing with HM Revenue and Customs continue to accrue, and the VAT situation at
the Ulster Tower remains inconclusive. In this climate, the Board and management acknowledge
their responsibility to find solutions to such issues. whilst making sound strategic decisions
regarding the viability of the operation at home and abroad.
The Association rely on, and are grateful for, the support of the bank and other third parties to
whom they remain indebled. As at the date of approval of the financial statements, the Board is
not aware of any conditions that exist which may result in the withdrawal of support in the next 12
months by any known creditor, however they acknowledge that Ihe current economic trading
conditions and resultant lack of certainty regarding cash inflows suggest that a material uncertainty
exists which casts significant doubt upon the Association's ability to continue as a going Goncern.
On consideration of the uncertainties described above, the trustees have a reasonable expectation
that the Somme Association has adequate resources and support to continue in operational
existence for the foreseeable future. For these reasons, they consider that the preparation of the
financial statements on a going concern basis is appropriate. Accordingly, the financial statements
do not contain any adjustments that would result rf bank or credit facilities were withdrawn or fulure
funding or finance becarne unavailable.
19

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (contlnu
Year ended 31 March 2023
Accounting policles (contlnued)
Judgements and key sources of estimatlon uncertainty
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates
and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. These estimates and judgements are
Gontinually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of
future events that are believed to be reasonable under the Circumstances. Consequently, actual
results may differ from these estimates.
The key judgements and estimates that management has made in the process of applying the
entity's accounting policies and that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in
the financial statements are as follows..
Depreciation
The company's statement of financial position reflects a tangible fixed asset class which is subject
to depreciation. Depreciation rates are based upon the expected economic lives of the related
tangible fixed assets. Any variation in the useful economic lives of the asset class will have an
impact on the balance sheet and financial position of the company. The useful economic lives of
tangible fixed assets are uncertain and, therefore. the actual economic life of an asset may be
shorter or longer than expected. There have been no significant revisions to the estimated lives
during the current financial year.
Foreign currencies
Foreign currency transactions are initially recorded in the functional currency, by applying the spot
exchange rate as at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in
foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate ruling at the reporting date, with any gains
or losses being taken to the statement of financial activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees to further any of the
charity's purposes.
Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for particular future project or
commitment.
Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure declared by the donor or through
the terms of an appeal, and fall into one of sub-classes: restricted income funds or endowment
funds.
20

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continu&dJ
Year ended 31 March 2023
Accounting policies (contlnued)
Incoming resources
All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities when entitlement has
passed to Ihe charity.. it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will
ftow to the charity and the amount can be reliably measured. The following spectfi¢ policies are
applied to particular categories of income..
income from donations or grants is recognised when there is evidence of entitlement to the
gift, receipt is probable and its amount can be measured reliably.
legacy income is recognised when receipt is probable and entitlement is established.
income from donated goods is measured at the fair value of the goods unless this is
impractical lo measure reliably, in which case the value is derived from the tost to the donor
or the estimaled resale value. Donated facilities and services are recognised in the accounts
when received if the value ¢an be reliably measured. No amounts are included for the
ontribution of general volunteers.
income from contracts for the supply of services is recognised with the delivery of the
contracted service. This is classified as unrestricted funds unless there is a contractual
requirement for it to be spent on a parti¢ular purpose and returned if unspent, in which case
it may be regarded as restricted.
Resources expended
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any
VAT which ¢annot be fully recovered, and is ¢lassified under headings of the statement of financial
activities to which it relates=
expenditure on raising funds includes the costs of all fundraising activities, events, non-
charitable trading activities, and the sale of donated goods.
expenditure on charitable activities includes all costs incurred by a charity in undertaking
activities that further its charitable aims for the benefit of its beneficiaries, including those
support costs and costs relating to the governance of the Gharity apportioned to charitable
activities.
other expenditure includes all expenditure that is neither related to raising funds for the charity
nor part of its expenditure on charitable activities.
All costs are allocated to expenditure categories reflecting the use of the resource. Direct costs
attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs are apportioned
be￿een the activities they contribute to on a reasonable, justifiable and consistent basis.
21

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Accounting policies (¢ontlnuéd)
Intanglble assets
Intangible assets are initially recorded at cost, and are subsequently staled at cost less any
accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. Any intangible assets carried at revalued
amounts, are recorded at the fair value at the date of revaluation, as determined by reference to
an active market, less any subsequent accumulated amortisation and subsequent a¢¢umulated
impairment losses.
Intangible assets acquired as part of a business combination are only recognised separately from
goodwill when they arise from contractual or other legal rights, are separable, the expected future
economic benefits are probable and the cost or value can be measured reliably.
Amortisation
Amortisation is calculated so as to write off the cost of an asset, less its estimated residual value,
over the useful life of that asset as follows:
Copyright
100/0 Straight line
If there is an indication that there has been a significant change in amortisation rate, useful lrfe or
residual value of an intangible asset. the amortisation is revised prospectively to reflect the new
estimates.
Tangible assets
Tangible assets are initialEy recorded at cost, and subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated
depreciation and impairment losses. Anytangible assets carried at revalued amounts are recorded
at the fair value at the date of revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and
subsequent accumulated impairment losses.
An increase in the carrying amount of an asset as a result of a revaluation, is recognised in other
recognised gains and losses, unless it reverses a charge for impairment that has previously been
recognised as expenditure within the statement of financial activities. A decrease in the carrying
amount of an asset as a result of revaluation, is recognised in other recognised gains and losses,
except to which it offsets any previous revaluation gain, in which case the loss is shown within
other recognised gains and losses on the statement of financial activities.
Heritage assets measured under the cost model are re¢ognised initially recorded at acquisition
cost, and subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.
Heritage assets measured under the revalualion model are recorded at fair value less any
accumulated impairment losses.
Where infomiation on the cost or value of an asset is not available and cannot be obtained at a
cost which is ¢ommensurate with the benefits to users of the financial statements, the asset shall
not be recognised in the statement of financial position.
22

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (contlnuedj
Year ended 31 March 2023
A¢counting policies f¢ontinued)
Depreciation
Depreciation is calculated so as lo write off the cost or valuation of an asset, less its residual value,
over the useful economic life of that asset as follows..
Land and buildings
Baxter Hut
Fixtures and fittings
Motor vehicles
Thiepval Wood
20/0 Straight line
3 % straight line
20 % slraight line
20 % straight line
20/0 Straight line
Impairment of fixed assets
A review for indi¢ators of impaimient is carried out at each reporting date, with the recoverable
amount being estimated where such indicators exist. Where the carrying value exceeds the
recoverable amount, the asset is impaired accordingly. Prior impairments are also reviewed for
possible reversal at each reporting date.
For the purposes of impairment testing, when it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount
of an individual asset, an estimate is made of the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unil
to which the asset belongs. The cash-generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets
that includes the asset and generates cash inflows that largely independent of the cash inflows
from other assets or groups of assets.
For impairment testing of goodwill, the goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the
acquisition date, allocated to each of the cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from
the synergies of the combination, irrespective of whether other assets or liabilities of the charity
are assigned to those units.
Stocks
Stocks are measured at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less Costs to Complete and
sell. Cost includes all costs of purchase, costs of conversion and other costs incurred in bringing
the stock to its present location and condition.
Financial instruments
A financial asset or a financial liability is recognised only when the charity becomes a party to the
contractual provisions of the instrument.
Basic financial instruments are initially re¢ognised at the amount receivable or payable including
any related transaction costs.
Current assets and current liabilities are subsequently measured at the cash or other consideration
expected to be paid or received and not discounted.
Debt instruments are subsequently measured at amortised ¢0st.
23

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Accounting pollcies fcontlnued)
Financial instruments (continued)
Where investments in shares are publicly traded or their fair value can otherwise be measured
reliably, the investment is subsequently measured at fair value with changes in fair value
recognised in income and expenditure. All other such investments are subsequently measured at
Cost less impairment.
Other financial instruments, including derivatives, are initially recognised at fair value, unless
payment for an asset is deferred beyond normal business tenns or financed at a rate of interest
that is not a market rate, in which case the asset is measured at the present value of the future
payments discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument.
otherfinancial instruments are subsequently measured atfair value, with any changes recognised
in the statement of financial activities, with the exception of hedging instruments in a designated
hedging relationship.
Financial assets that are measured at cost or amortised cost are reviewed for objective evidence
of impaimient at the end of each reporting date. If there is objective evidence of impairment, an
impaimient loss is recognised under the appropriate heading in the statement of financial activities
in which the initial gain was recognised.
For all equity instruments regardless of significance, and other financial assets that are individualSy
significant, these are assessed individually for impaimient. other financial assets are either
assessed individually or grouped on the basis of similar credit risk characteristics.
Any reversals of impairment are recognised immediately, to the extent that the reversal does not
result in a carrying amount of the financial asset that exceeds what the carrying amount would
have been had the impainnent not previously been recognised.
Defined contribution plans
Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an expense in the period in which
the related seNice is provided. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that
the prepayment will lead to a reduction in future payments or a cash refund.
When contributions are not expected to be settled wholly within 12 months of the end of the
reporting date in which the employees render the related service, the liability is measured on a
discounted present value basis. The unwinding of the discount is recognised as an expense in the
period in which it arises.
Llmlted by guarantee
The charity is a company limited by guarantee, not having a share Capital and is registered in
Northern Ireland. The liability of member5 is limited to £10.
24

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Donations
Membership subscriptions
Donations
14,784
14,374
14,784
14,374
Grants
Dpt for Communities grants
TBUC grants
DFP grants
Ards and NDBC grants
NIMC grant
HMRC JRS grant
National Lottery Heritage Fund
29,000
29,000
47,000
47,000
10,000
10,000
31,000
31,000
39,158
107,000
146,158
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2022
Donations
Membership subscriptions
Donations
14,258
18,581
14,258
18,581
Grants
Dpt for Communities grants
TBUC grants
DFP grants
Ards and NDBC grants
NIMC grant
HMRC JRS grant
National Lottery Heritage Fund
29,000
41,566
87,000
29,000
41,566
87,000
10,000
2,000
6,476
10.000
2,000
6,476
42,839
166,042
208,881
Charitable activities
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2022
Sale of goodslservices as part of
direct charitable activities
13,343
13,343
6,880
6,880
25

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (¢onflnued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
Other tradlng activities
Unrestricted Total Funds Unrestricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Funds
2022
Shop sales
Cafe sales
Hunt income
Thiepval Wood sales
Event Income
20,402
30,613
3,081
7,018
250
20,402
30,613
3,081
7.018
250
3.644
3,915
2,948
3,721
150
3,644
3,915
2,948
3,721
150
61,364
61,364
14,378
14,378
Other income
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2022
GOLI income
1,500
1,500
1,500
1.500
Costs of other trading activities
Unrestricted Total Funds Unrestricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Funds
2022
Costs of other trading activities - Shop
and cafe costs
29,838
29,839
8,288
8,288
10. Expenditure on charitable activities by fund type
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Headquarters
Ulster Tower
Somme Museum
Support costs
10,278
13,333
46,517
(5,876)
64,252
275
55,748
71,998
35,801
10,552
69.081
118,515
29,925
163,822
228,073
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted Totsl Funds
Funds
2022
Headquarters
Ulster Tower
Somme Museum
Support costs
10,762
27,637
46,689
10,130
4,909
73,988
79,300
35,801
15,670
101,625
125,990
45,931
95,218
193,998
289,216
26

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (conllnued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
11. Expenditure on charitable activities by activity type
Activities
undertaken
directly
Support Total funds
costs
2023
Total fund
2022
Headquarters
Ulster Tower
Somme Museum
Governance costs
10,552
69,081
118,515
10.552
69.081
118,515
29,925
15,670
101,625
125,990
45,931
29,925
198,148
29,925
228,073
289,216
12. Net expenditure
Net expendilure is stated after chargingl(crediting):
2023
2022
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Foreign exchange differences
36,830
946
37,223
42
13. Auditors remuneration
2023
2022
Fees payable for the audit of the financial statements
6,623
6,250
Fees payable to the charity's auditor and its associates for other services..
Olher non-audit services
2,208
2,083
14. Staff costs
The total staff costs and employee benefits for the reporting period are analysed as follows..
2023
2022
Wages and salaries
Employer contribution5 to pension plans
other employee benefits
119,068
2,454
119,334
2,640
1.123
121,522
123,097
The average head count of employees during the year was 5 (2022.. 6). The average number of
full-time equivalent employees during the year is analysed as follows..
2023
2022
Somme Museum
Ulster Tower
27

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements f¢ontlnued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
14. Staff costs f¢ontlnue
No employee received employee benefits of more than £60,000 during the year (2022- Nil).
15. Trustee remuneration and expenses
No remuneration or other benefits from employment with the charity or a related entty were
received by the trustees during the year.
16. Intangible assets
Copyright
Cost
At 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023
Amortisation
At 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2023
10.394
10,394
At 31 March 2022
17. Tangible fixed assets
Land and
buildings Baxter Hut
Fixtures and
fittings
Motor
vehicles
Thiepval
Wood
Total
Cost
At 1 Apr 2022
Additions
1,292.120
49.268
472.029
475
18,798
415,840 2,248,055
475
At 31 Mar 2023
1.292,120
49.268
472.504
18,798
415,840 2,248,530
Depreciation
At 1 Apr 2022
Charge for the
year
708,727
13.137
469,231
18,798
143,188 1,353,081
25,842
1,642
1,029
8,317
36,830
At 31 Mar 2023
734.569
14,779
470.260
18,798
151,505 1,389,911
Carrying amount
At 31 Mar 2023
557,551
34,489
2,244
264,335
858,619
At 31 Mar 2022
583,393
36,131
2,798
272,652
894,974
28

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements f¢ontinu•dJ
Year ended 31 March 2023
17. Tangible fixed assets {contlnued)
The Somme Museum is located near the training ground of the 36th (Ulster) Division, near
Newtownards, the museum examines Ireland's role in the Great War, hosts schools, conferences.
educational seminars, and exhibitions on more recent conflicts. The museum has increasingly
focused upon the community relations potential of our shared history as a vehicle to developing
mutual understanding and reconciliation. The museum was opened in 1994.
The Ulster Tower visitovs centre is located at the site of the Ulster Tower, Thiepval, France. The
centre comprises an exhibition area, AV room, cafelshop with adjoining seating area and customer
toilets and is a focus for thousands of visitors each year who come to visit the Ulster Tower and
Thiepval Wood.
Craigavon House and Thiepval Wood are regarded as being heritage assets. Further details can
be found in note 3 of the financial statements.
During the year ended March 2013 the charity was gifted Baxter Huts by the Ministry of
Defence. The huts were used variously throughout the 20th century as soldier's billets and for
housing internees. The huts are a unique part of local history and were without market value.
Due to the poor state of repair of the huts and the damage involved in the taking down of the huts,
one hut was constructed from the two. The trustees are, therefore, of the opinion that the costs
of obtaining a valuation for the original huts would be disproportionate in terms of the benefit
derived. The costs incurred in the conslruction of the hut have been capitalised and are being
depreciated.
The trustees thank the Heritage Lottery Fund for their financial support of this project.
In 2004 the Somme Association received a grant from the Department of Arts, Culture and Leisure
towards the purchase of Thiepval Wood.
18. Stocks
2023
2022
Raw materials and consumables
7,246
7,969
19. Debtors
2023
2022
Trade debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
Other debtors
295
6.445
6,409
4,723
31,175
13,149
35,898
29

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
20. Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise the following:
2023
2022
Cash at bank and in hand
Bank overdrafts
12,569
9,936
(22,041)
{12,105)
12,569
21. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023
2022
Bank loans
Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income
Social security and other taxes
Other creditors
22,041
10,265
24,741
87,531
218,155
2,290
23,259
102,896
212,641
341,086
362,733
Bank loans as detailed above includes bank loans and overdrafts.
The bank overdrafts of £nil (2022.. £22.041) disclosed under creditors falling due within one year
are secured by the company.
First Trust Bank holds a legal mortgagelcharge over Craigavon House as security against
borrowings.
22. Penslons and other post retirement benefits
Defined contribution plans
The amount recognised in in¢ome or expenditure as an expense in relation to defined contribution
plans was £2,454 {2022.' £2,640).
30

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements {continuodJ
Year ended 31 March 2023
23. Analysis of charitable funds
Unrestricted funds
At
31 March 20
23
At
1 April 2022
Income Expenditure
General funds
{302,435)
100,522
(94,090)
1296,003}
At
31 March 20
22
At
1 April 2021
Income Expenditure
General funds
(256,146)
57,217
(103,506) 1302,435}
Restricted funds
At
31 March 20
23
At
1 April 2022
Income Expenditure
Somme Association Restricted Fund
888,479
121,843
(163,8221
846,500
At
31 March 20
22
At
1 April 2021
Income Expenditure
Somme Association Restri¢ted Fund
908,055
174,422
(193,9981
888,479
24. Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2023
Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
Creditors less than 1 year
Net assets
2,244
856,375
858,619
{107.161)
140,125
32,964
{191,086) (150,000} {341,086)
1296,003)
846,500
550,497
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted Total Funds
Funds
2022
Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
Creditors less than 1 year
Net assets
2,798
892,176
894.974
(92,500)
146,303
53,803
(212,733) (150,000) 1362,733)
(302,435)
888,479
586,044
31

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
25. Analysis of changes in net debt
At
At 1 Apr 2022 Cash flows 31 Mar 2023
Cash at bank and in hand
Bank overdrafts
9,936
(22,041}
(12,105)
2,633
22,041
12,569
24,674
12,569
26. Contingencies
A Contingent liability exists in respect of professional seNices provided to the charity by Alastair
Coey architects. To date, professional fees have not been delivered to the Association for
payment, although the trustees believe that the value of the engagement can be reasonably
estimated to be in the region of £85,000 (the exact quantum has not been agreed). The trustees
do not expect payment of any amount to be considered until agreement has been reached on the
validity of the work performed and the associated costs, in addition to receipt of funds from the
sale of Craigavon House.
27. Limitation of auditors liability
The company has entered into a liability limitation agreement with its auditor. Aubrey Campbell
and Company on the following basis..
{a} the maximum aggregate amount of the auditorfs liability to the company shall not exceed the
sum of seven times the fees payable (excluding expenses and value added tax) under the
engagement letter agreed for the finan¢ial period, or £30,000, whichever is the lesser amount.
(b) the agreement was passed by a resolution of the company's members on 12th March 2024.
28. Related parties
The Association has a close relationship with Ards and North Down Borough Council, which
nominates 3 members of the Somme Museum Management Committee and provides funding to
enable the Museum to carry out ils charitable objects. The Somme Museum received £10,000
{2022= £10,000) in grant support and £1,625 {2022: £1,150) membership subscriptions, Musuem
ticket sales and event income from Ards and North Down Borough Council in the year. At the
balance sheet date £nil (2022- £nil) remained due to the Somme Museum.
32

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Management Information
Year ended 31 March 2023
The following pages do not form part of the financial statements.
33

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
2022
Income and endowments
Donations and legacies
Membership subscriptions
Donations
Dpt for Communities grants
TBUC grants
DFP grants
Ards and NDBC grants
NIMC grant
HMRC JRS grant
National Lottery Heritage Fund
14,784
14,374
29,000
14,258
18,581
29,000
41,566
87,000
10,000
2,000
6,476
47,000
10,000
31,000
146,158
208,881
Charitable activities
Sale of goodslservices as part of direct charitable activities
13,343
6,880
Other trading activities
Shop sales
Cafe sales
Hunt income
Thiepval Wood sales
Event Income
20,402
30.613
3.081
7.018
250
3,644
3,915
2.948
3.721
150
61,364
14,378
Other income
GOLI in¢ome
1,500
1,500
Total income
222,365
231,639
34

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities (continuedj
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
2022
Expenditure
Costs of other trading activities
Opening stock
Purchases
Closing stock
7,969
29,116
7,246
8,191
8,066
7,969
29,839
8,288
Expenditure on charitable activities
Wages and salaries
Pension costs
Other posl-retirement benefits
Light and heat
Repairs and maintenance
Insurance
Other motorltravel costs
Legal and professional fees
Telephone
Other office costs
Depreciation
Foreign exchange gainlloss
Write off VAT account
Sundry expenses
Bank charges
Exhibition and event costs
119,068
2,454
119,334
2,640
1,123
7.055
11,551
22,416
19,035
8,708
3,834
5,714
37,223
42
8,373
6,603
22,121
25,995
9,724
4,639
3,299
36.830
946
(16,629)
568
2,952
1,130
1,218
2,662
46,661
228,073
289,216
Total expenditure
257,912
297,504
Net expenditure
135,547)
165,865)
35

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Detailed Statement of Financial Activities
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
2022
Costs of other trading actlvitles
Costs of other trading activities - Shop and cafe costs
Shop and cafe costs - opening stock
Shop and cafe costs - purchases
Shop and cafe costs - closing sto¢k
7,969
29,116
(7,246)
29,839
8,191
8,066
{7,969)
8,288
Costs of other trading activities
29,839
8,288
36

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Detailed Statement of Financial Activities (eonlinued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
2022
Expenditure on charitable activities
Headquarters
Activities undertaken directly
Headquarters - pension costs
Headquarters- repairs & maintenance
Headquarters - insurance
Headquarters - other motorltravel costs
Headquarters - telephone
Headquarters - other office costs
Headquarters - sundry expenses
Headquarters - Bank charges
Headquarters - Exhibition and event cosls
1,800
326
1,800
438
926
5,805
199
1,504
1,093
597
3,308
5,355
846
1,625
326
274
10,552
15,670
Ulster Tower
Activities undertaken directly
Ulster Tower- wageslsalaries
Ulster Tower
light & heat
Ulster Tower
repairs & maintenance
Ulster Tower
insurance
Ulster Tower
other motorAravel costs
Ulsler Tower
telephone
Ulster Tower
other office costs
Ulster Tower- foreign exchange gainlloss
Ulster Tower
sundry expenses
Ulster Tower
bank charges
Ulster Tower- Exhibition and event costs
35,656
2,042
4,879
3,757
18,657
1,557
233
946
120
341
893
36,108
2,828
5,790
3,638
13,219
1,432
248
42
425
37,880
101,625
69,081
Somme Museum
Activities undertaken directly
Somme Museum - wageslsalaries
Somme Museum - pension costs
Somme Museum - RedundanGy
Somme Museum - light & heat
Somme Museum - repairs & maintenance
Somme Museum - insurance
Somme Museum - other motorltravel costs
Somme Museum - telephone
Somme Museum - other office costs
Somme Museum - sundry expenses
Somme Museum - bank charges
Somme Museum - Exhibition and event costs
83,412
654
83,226
840
1,123
4,227
5,323
17,852
8,331
1,398
18,364
1,983
2,236
1,441
448
2,285
137)
2,203
3,962
110
1,640
5,473
Carried forward
118,515
125,990
37

The Somme Association
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the Detailed Statement of Financial Activities (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2023
2023
2022
Brought fO￿ard
118,515
125,990
118,515
125,990
Governance costs
Governance costs - accountancy fees
Governance costs - audit fees
Governance costs - legal and other professional fees
Governance costs - depreciation
Governance costs - write off
2,208
6.623
893
36,830
{16,629}
29,925
2,083
6,250
375
37,223
45,931
Expenditure on charitable activities
228,073
289,218
38