ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Of theWALDRON PAROCHIAL

CHURCH COUNCIL

For the Year ended 31st December 2018

Parish of Waldron

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Chichester DioceseChurch of England

Charities Act Annual Report 2018

1.Reference and administrative informationi) Administration address:-The Parish Office at St Bartholomew’s ChurchCross in HandHeathfieldEast SussexTN21 0LT

ii) Charitable Status of the parishThe parish is a charity, but is excepted from registering with the Charity Commission within the terms of the Charities Act,1993 by Exception Order 2007/2655 of 1st October 2007, since it has an income lower than £100k. A dispensation for 2017 was obtained as we were in excess of this level due to unusual circumstances. However, we are advised that we need to apply for our own charitable status in view of income exceeding £100k in 2018 and this is currently in hand.

iii) Name and address of Independent ExaminerNicholas Rayment61 OaklandsWesthamPevenseyEast SussexBN24 5AW (01323 763385)

iv) Name & Address of Primary BankersLloyds Bank plc82 Mount Pleasant RoadTunbridge WellsKentTN1 1RP

2. Structure, governance and managementAdministration is the responsibility of the Priest-in-charge; Rev. George Pitcher (non-stipendiary priest) together with the Churchwardens and Parochial Church Council (PCC) following the relevant legislation and the Canon Law of the Church of England, and working under the authority of the Bishops of the Diocese. The Parish Administrator and Rector’s PA is given responsibility for the day to day administration, good order and diary management of the parish. Canon Lucy Murdoch now provides support as a contact for baptisms, weddings and funerals, but administration for baptisms is passed to the Rector and for Weddings and Funerals to the Pastoral team. The parish is in the diocese of Chichester and the Episcopal Area of Lewes and Hastings.

i) How the PCC is constitutedThe PCC and Churchwardens are elected under the terms of the Church Representation Rules 2006 (Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 as amended by Statutory Instrument 2004 No 1889.)

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The Priest-in-charge serves under licence from the Bishop; Churchwardens and Deanery and Diocesan Synod delegates are the subject of separate elections to their posts. All of these then serve on the PCC ex officio.

Churchwardens are elected annually, and lay members of the Deanery Synod for a three year term. The appropriate number of members of the church are also elected for a three year term with 1/3 standing down each year, but being eligible for re-election. The electorate comprises those persons on the Electoral Roll; all church members are encouraged to register and to consider standing for election to the PCC.

ii) List of members in the year 2018

Ex-officio members;-Revd. George Pitcher (Priest –in -charge and Chairman)Mrs Sarah Mackenzie (Churchwarden)Mr Ian Dixon (Churchwarden) and (Treasurer)Mrs Caroline Thompson (Deanery Synod)

Elected members;-Mrs Anne Brine (Hon. Secretary)Mrs Mary EverettJudith Neame -BottMrs Carollyn StanbridgeMr Timothy Hough (See Reader, also)Mr Richard Maylam (See Reader, also)Mr Martin TunstallMr Roger ClarkMr Tim WilliamsMr David Mattinson

Appointed Members;

Mr Timothy Hough (Reader)Mr Richard Maylam (Reader)

Co-opted Members

Mr Andy Delves was in attendance at the PCC meetings during the year

iii) Committees of the PCCThe PCC’s Standing Committee, which is the only committee required by law, has the power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings subject to any directions given by the Council. This consists of the Priest-in-charge, the Churchwardens, the Secretary, the Treasurer and one member from the PCC. A finance sub-committee monitors the income and expenditure of the PCC. The Priest-in-charge together with the Churchwardens and other members form a 20/20 Vision Group that incorporates a Fabric committee to oversee the stewardship of the church buildings and fabric. Other groups who operate under the authority and directions of the PCC have their activities summarised in the appendices to this document.

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iv) Induction and training of PCC MembersAll members of the PCC have their duties and responsibilities explained to them including their duty of care and the implications of the Charities Act 2006 and SORP 2005. This also includes Safeguarding issues. They are regularly updated on changes to rules, regulations and law.

3. Objectives and activities

i) Primary ObjectiveThe primary objective of the Parish of Waldron is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent, Rev. George Pitcher, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

4. Achievements and performance

i) Church attendance and electoral roll totalsThere are currently 110 entries on the Church Electoral Roll of which 30 relate to people not currently residing within the parish (March 2019 revision) (148 in March 2018)The average Sunday attendance was 73 (67 in 2018)n.b. calculated by adding all of the Sunday only worshippers EXCEPT Easter Sunday and dividing by 51, there being 52 Sundays in 2018 390 came to Church over Christmas , plus 78 children. (426 and 37 in 2017)140 worshippers attended the Easter Sunday Services , plus 8 children (175 and 15 in 2017)

A number of weddings and funerals took place during the year, many of which completely filled our churches.

ii) PCC MeetingsThe PCC met on 6 occasions in 2018 – 11th January, 22nd March, 24th May, 26th July,20th September and 23rd November. Attendance as recorded in the minutes.

iii) Review of ActivitiesDuring the course of the year, the PCC :-

Continued in its efforts to fully integrate the congregations of the two churches

Following on from the completion the project to replace the altar frontals at St. Bartholomew’s church we are proceeding with the next stage of creating kneelers to complement the frontals and work is well under way on this project.

We concluded the new joinery arrangements.at All Saints church providing us with modern kitchen facilities and storage. As a result of a donation from Friends of Waldron Churches, we also provided a Servery to further enhance this area.

We have continued in our efforts to obtain Planning permission for a meeting room, toilet and refreshment facility at St. Bartholomew’s, such that we could look to grow our congregation by appealing to a wider community and integrate better with our C of E school. It is hoped that these plans will reach fruition during 2019

As a result of problems with the All Saints re-ordering, we decided to change our Inspecting Architect and proposed appointing Mr Fred Courtney-Bennett.

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We continued to recognise and appreciate the ongoing support of the Friends under the chairmanship of Tim Williams. The financial support of the Friends is invaluable when we undertake both necessary works to our two churches and as we proceed with the re-ordering of them to further develop our ability to involve the wider community.

Continued to maintain and develop an active working relationship with the local Cof E school where we have a representative as one of the Governors and our Priest in Charge makes regular visits.

iv) Church Groups – see separate reports in the appendix Cross in Hand Church of England Primary School – appendix 1Dallington Deanery Synod – appendix 2Churches Together in Heathfield & District – appendix 3The Choir - see Music report appendix 4Parish Prayer Group – appendix 5Pastoral & Fellowship – appendix 6Friends of Waldron Churches – appendix 7Freewill Offering - appendix 8Family Support Work – appendix 9Caring & Sharing – appendix 10Bell Ringers – appendix 11Parish Pealers – appendix 12Linked Hands – appendix 13“Lost & Found” – appendix 14

5. Rector’s Review 2018

It has been, in very many respects, a heartening year. By that, I mean that the Parish of Waldron with Cross In Hand is in very good heart.

At our parish church of All Saints, we have completed and had Bishop Richard dedicate our catering corner in the north aisle – I think I want to call it our Agape Area – and, as we gather after our services, it seems it’s always been there. We have raised funds and completed the restoration of our fine organ. From a time a couple of years ago when we wondered if we’d have enough to form a team, we now have bell-ringers waiting to take their turn.

At St Bart’s, we’re all impatient to see work start on our new hall and fellowship room, so that among other things we can welcome more children from our school to church activities. We’re tantalisingly close now to breaking ground – and it will have been more than worth the wait. St Bart’s will be fit for 21st-century ministry.

We have re-focused our Christmas market on our parish church – and what a joyous occasion that was, with All Saints full of families enjoying the Christmas spirit (but maybe we won’t try to do everything at the same time next Advent!). And, in our Diocesan Year of Vocations, we have those from among us discerning their callings to serve, whether in leadership or support roles.

Yes, we’re in a good heart. And let’s thank God that we have such a generous heart. Our people give both their time and their money in great measure so that we, as the Church, can serve our community. I am constantly touched by how generously you give, whether at an organ fund auction, to my sponsored pilgrimage for church developments, or simply quietly to our weekly collections or to the funds for our new building project at St Bart’s (which have benefited from some truly wonderful donations). And once again it is a great privilege to thank our Friends of Waldron Churches for all their support.

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That said, we must face the challenge of regular giving if we are to make our church funds sustainable into the future to support once again a stipendiary Rector for our parish.

But, as well as giving, we can take heart from this past year. Anything is possible for God’s people – that’s us. And what the year has shown us is that, if our church buildings are at the heart of our community, then we, the people of God, are the beating heart of that community. Bless your hearts.

George Pitcher, March 2019

6. Churchwardens’ Annual Report – 2018

Looking back on 2018 it is hard to believe that many of the events were only a year ago, whilst some seem as if they were only yesterday. The memory does play tricks!

Sadly, we lost four significant supporters of our Parish in Pam Angel, Gill Temple, Jonathan Clarke and Brenda Brown. We also said farewell to Celine Dexter and Carol Price from amongst our number and their memories live on in the contributions to our Organ Fund and the wonderful Chalice and Ciborium donated by the Price family following from David’s passing only the year before.

On a happier note we welcomed more couples into our churches for weddings and young families at Baptisms, always joyous times!

Our average attendance was slightly higher in 2018 and we were delighted to see full churches at our Easter and Christmas services. In particular, we recorded a congregation of over 200 for the Remembrance Day service which, of course, marked the centenary of the end of the First World War.

We continue in our efforts to integrate congregations from both churches, whilst appreciating some of the logistics for some and, of course, long standing attachments.

It is again our pleasure to thank our priest in charge, George Pitcher, for his ongoing enthusiasm and his commitment to the work of our Parish and his support to our Church of England School, which remains on an unpaid basis. Additionally, thanks are due to Canon Lucy Murdoch who, following retirement, continues to prove a tremendous support to our Ministry team. We are also delighted to have the services of Rev. Simon Hobbs, both as an occasional minister, but also as a superb organist. Simon’s “organ voluntaries” have become an established end to some of our services and are very much enjoyed by all. Richard Maylam, now returned to his role as a Reader, and Tim Hough, who has served as a Reader for 35 years, come 2019, both provide valuable contributions. We also pay tribute to the invaluable work of Carollyn Stanbridge who contributes so much to the Ministry Team and beyond. Our thanks go to them for their input and support. We are delighted to know that Andy Delves has decided to offer himself as a Reader and we wish hm every success in this venture which we are delighted to support.

Whilst on the subject of thanks, we also extend our appreciation to all those who contribute to the work of the church throughout the year. If we mention any specific groups, we are sure to forget someone, so, again, a huge “thank you” to you all. Background work often goes unnoticed; only recently, the ladies who clean the brass at All Saints emerged from the shadows! We thought it was “self cleaning”!!

Our thanks must also go to Mobbs Pitcher, who, quite apart from her support for George, continues to contribute a huge amount behind the scenes; her artistic talents continue to be called upon in support of both the church and Friends of Waldron churches.

The provision of organ and choral contributions at our services is an integral part of our worship and 2018 presented its challenges. Our thanks are due to Judith Clark for her work in keeping our choir

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together following the loss of a Director of Music and, as the year developed, it became appropriate to recognise this more formally, so Judith now fulfils the role of our Music Co-ordinator, ensuring that all things musical are dealt with. At this point, we should also recognise her valuable support to George in her role as Parish Administrator; a challenging task in itself! Pew sheets and eNews do not just happen, you know!

Of course, a significant event on the music front was the restoration of our organ at All Saints. Faced with a projected spend of some £30,000, we embarked in good faith on this work and, remarkably, we had raised sufficient funds to cover the expense within six months. Whilst it is never possible to say that an instrument of this age will not cause further problems, our actions have made a significant difference to its longevity and we thank all those who gave so generously.

We also thank Peter Lawrence for both the loan of his own instrument during the renovations and, of course for his playing on a regular totally voluntary basis.

We are greatly encouraged to see a queue for bell ringing at All Saints; all down to the ongoing commitment and hard work of Captain, Brian Tompsett. Many thanks, Brian for this and all that you do for us.

We again, acknowledge with thanks all those involved with the weekly prayer group, Linked Hands, Pastoral care, the knitting group, our Church school, Family Support Work (FSW) and the Free Will Offering scheme. All of this helps to further expand our involvement in the wider community.

We especially thank Anne Brine for her significant and valued contribution as Secretary of the PCC especially given the challenging health issues she has faced during the year.

Finally, a big thankyou goes to the Friends of Waldron Churches for the immense contribution they bring to our village community through a wide range of activities which, in turn, raise much needed funds to improve and maintain the fabric of our two churches.

Our attention was directed to a number of events during the year, notably, the introduction of GDPR and the Visitation from the Rural Dean. The first seems to have been dealt with adequately and the second was encouraging and supportive. It left us with work to do in some areas which we are addressing and, in particular, the adoption of the Diocesan SQP (Simple Quality Protects) scheme. This addresses areas of potential risks with regard to Safeguarding policies and systems as well as wider areas of potential risk to our churches. Work on this, in conjunction with Roger Clark, our Safeguarding Officer is ongoing.

The year also saw further efforts to raise funds for our church projects, not least being the plans for St Bart’s. In the Autumn, George undertook a Pilgrimage, walking from Chichester to Waldron and, in the process will have raised in excess of £4,000. Congratulations to both him and Dylan, his faithful dog! A September concert using our own talent also raised funds as did an excellent Quiz night organised by Ray and Cathy Cade. All of these events continued to engender a strong community spirit as well as raising essential funds, so we do thank all concerned.

Current and future fabric refurbishment plans for our two churches.

1) All Saints

It is good to report that 2018 saw the completion of our re-ordering project at All Saints with the installation of the new catering and storage facilities. This was augmented by the provision of a matching servery, kindly funded by FoWC, such that we now have a superb area for social activity after church services. Our thanks are due to the new contractors who, we feel, have done an excellent job. We have also installed a Portaloo as an additional convenience, whilst we continue to investigate more permanent toilet facilities.

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The problems encountered in getting to this stage, coupled with additional information provided to us by the Diocese, meant that we dispensed with the services of our Inspecting Architect at the end of the year and are currently in the process of appointing a successor. We continued to argue for a reduction/ cancellation of our outstanding account from Ellis, the main contractors, but, with the threat of legal action and, having reduced the bill to around £1,200, the PCC reluctantly agreed to settle and thus bring this matter to a conclusion.

Some problems with the heating were identified around the turn of the year and are being addressed.

As mentioned, the refurbishment of the organ has been completed.

2) St Bartholomew’s

a) Building work It may appear that, again, nothing happened during 2018 with regard to the building project at St Bart’s but we have, in fact, made some steady progress.

We have been fortunate in being able to call upon the expertise of Ray James who is a retired architect in our congregation and who is familiar with church projects.

Under Ray’s guidance, the small sub-committee worked with the new architect to produce an exciting and practical plan to meet our needs.

An application for Planning permission was submitted to Wealden District Council in August 2018 and this has been the subject of ongoing discussions and meeting since that time, such that, as we go into 2019, a slightly revised plan has been submitted for approval and where we are hopeful that permission will be granted. Once this is obtained, we can approach potential contractors for tenders and the DAC for their approval also. At this stage, we should have a better idea as to what the expense will be. A Portaloo is now in place, pending the completion of our major building project.

b) Parking

Somewhat disappointingly, we failed to obtain approval to use the open space just inside Darch’s Wood for additional parking. The objections from Wealden D.C. meant that we could only have accommodated around six vehicles and this did not justify the potential expense.

On a positive note, the Parish Council have removed the tree stump from the top car park and this creates additional spaces and facilitates parking overall.

c) Roof repairs

The quinquennial inspection towards the end of 2017 revealed that there is work to the roof required before too long. This has been predicted to cost around £6,500 plus VAT, and we have been endeavouring to liaise with the proposed contractor to get the work carried out. Needless to say, this has proved more difficult than expected, but we continue to pursue the matter.

d) Altar frontals/kneelers

Following the successful outcome of the project to have new altar frontals. a dedicated band of “stitchers” are working conscientiously to create new kneelers, using Polly Meynell’s designs. This painstaking task is making steady progress; any more volunteers will no doubt be welcomed!

Ian Dixon Sarah Mackenzie

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7. Financial Review and ongoing plans

Our financial year ended with an excess of income over expenditure of approximately £16,000 due in part to an enhanced and accelerated tax recovery. Our cash collections exceeded the budgeted figure due to a “good” Christmas period! The Free Will Offerings also picked up and exceeded our revised expectations, although falling well short of previous years and our budgeted figure.

I again to urge all those who do not yet use the Parish Giving Scheme to consider doing so as this is so beneficial to our finances and, indeed, should make life easier for “givers”.

Overall, our income was right on our Budget forecast which was something of a relief. It should be noted that, during the year, some £32,000 was raised for the organ restoration work at All Saints which does need to be taken into account when considering overall giving. Additionally, a further £43,000 was received towards our building project at St. Bart’s. Overall, our income was £140,000 and, as we have exceeded £100,000 for a second year, this means that we now have to apply for Charitable Status in our own right, a little earlier than planned. This is now in hand.

Our regular outgoings remained well below forecast, due to a large extent to the delay in roof repairs at St Bart’s. This remains to be scheduled and is built in to our 2019 budget! However, we did well in containing normal ongoing costs, something we plan to continue.

The second phase of the Organ restoration work at All saints remained to be finalised and paid for. (Now done – March 2019) We will reclaim the VAT and “repay” the £5,500 which came from normal funds, taking us back to where we would have expected to be.

Additionally, we have £2,325 in hand from George’s Pilgrimage which is earmarked for our building projects, with the promise of more to come.

The year saw the successful conclusion to the re-ordering work at All Saints, with the completion of the new catering facility and servery. We resorted to a local contractor who, we believe, has served us well and dispensed with the services of Ellis, the main contractor initially. After many months of discussion, and with the threat of legal action, we paid their final bill at a reduced level, in order to conclude matters.

We continue to retain healthy balances and reserves, principally to cover the work on St Bart’s where we hope to see progress during 2019. We have not been immune to the falls in global stock markets and our investments declined in value over the year by around £10,000 (6.5%) which was in line with general stock market falls.

It should be noted that the expense on St Bart’s to date includes the acquisition of the stained glass window which is included in our assets at this stage and was purchased as a result of the generous donation from Mr & Mrs Kay to the St Bart’s project fund..

It is anticipated that 2019 will be quite challenging and, as we go forward, we remain mindful of the fact that our income would need to increase by perhaps £40,000 p.a. on an ongoing basis, were we to have a full time vicar at some stage in the future. This really will be a challenge!

Ian Dixon; Hon. Treasurer

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Statement of Assets and Liabilities

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Unrestricted     Total Total

General Designated Restricted Endowed All Funds All Funds

  Fund Funds Fund/s Fund/s 2018 2017 Notes

£ £ £  £ £ £

Assets:        

Bank current account 31,755        31,755 78,313

Bank account - Organ Fund     8,295    8,295

Bank account - NW & Pilgrimage 2,456    2,325    4,781

Friends of Waldron Churches     26,839    26,839 22,402

CBF Deposit Fund 63,186    156,674    219,860 169,860 11

PCC-owned bank balance 97,396    -  194,133    -  291,529 270,575

Diocesan Assigned Fees received       -    -  - -

Total bank and deposit accounts 97,397 - 194,133 - 291,530 270,575         -

Due from SE Water         - 7

        - -

Debtors - - - - - 7

M&G Charifund investments         60,064 65,902 

Charles Stanley & Co portfolio         89,974  94,619

Investment assets at market value - - - - 150,038 160,521

Parish Silver held at Chichester       24,000  24,000  24,000

Clock Benefaction Fund (Diocese)   -    -    -  3,036  3,036  3,082

Stained Glass window at cost       12,000  12,000 

Investment assets at cost - - - 27,036 39,036 27,082         - - - -        

Total assets 97,396 - 194,133 27,036 480,604 458,185

        Liabilities:        

Telephone rentals arrears     -    -    -    -  14

Gas and electricity due for December   -      -    -  200  227

(estimate)     -    -    -    -           -

Total liabilities - - - - 200 241

Note 11. This includes £30,000 passed to PCC in anticipation of future requirements

Summary of Financial Receipts

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and Payments - 2018

Unrestricted     Total Total

General Designated Restricted Endowed All Funds All Funds Fund Funds Fund/s Fund/s 2018 2017 Notes

£ £ £  £ £ £Income and endowments from:        

Donations and legacies 59,980  75,426    -    -  135,406 97,185

Charitable activities 3,545    -    -    -  3,545 5,256

Other trading activities 570    -    -    -  570 3,097

Investments 790    -    -    -  790 639

Other receipts FoWC   -    -    -    -  4,437 7,914        

Total received 64,885 75,426 - - 144,748 114,091

        Expenditure on:         -

Cost of raising funds   -    -    -    -  - -

Charitable costs 43,811  79,981    -    -  123,792 57,002

Trading costs   -    -    -    -  - -

Other payments   -    -    -    -  - -        

Total paid 43,811 79,981 - - 123,792 57,002

Reconciliation of funds:        

Net income or (net expenditure) 21,074   (4,555)   -    -  20,956 57,089

New asset/ stained glass window   12,000      12,000 

Movement in investments       -    -   (10,530) 16,457

Net movement in funds 21,074 7,445 - - 22,426 73,546

Bank accounts/ assets at 1 Jan.         458,178 384,632

Bank accounts at 31 December 21,074 7,445 - - 480,604 458,178

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Accounting Policies and Notes to the Financial Reports

i) Accounting Policies The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011, using the Receipts & Payments basis. With income below £250,000 this system remains acceptable.

ii) FundsGeneral funds relate to the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any specific restrictions regarding their use and are available for application to the general purposes of the PCC. These can include funds which are designated for a particular purpose by the PCC. The accounts include monetary transactions and assets & liabilities for which the PCC is responsible. Income is credited as and when received and payments out are included as at the date of payment.

iii) Statement of Assets & LiabilitiesThe following assets are acknowledged, but not necessarily valued in the Statement of Assets & Liabilities:

a) Movable church furnishings held by the churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which would require a faculty for disposal

b) Other fixtures and fittings and office equipment where the PCC would be free to dispose of such assets without a faculty and where the original costs exceeded £1,000

The following assets are recognised and a monetary value given as part of the description in the Statement of Assets & Liabilities;

a) Investments held beneficially by the PCC and shown at market valueb) Church silverware (based on the latest valuation)c) Bank balances as at the end of year as shown in the Statement of Assets & Liabilities

iv) Notes to accounts

A professional valuation of the silverware by Sotheby’s in February 2015 provided an estimated value between £24,000 and £35,000. Accordingly, the lower value has been incorporated within the accounts. All other property is reckoned to be items of furniture, service books and other publications with the value written off. The PCC does now own its photocopier, but this was purchased as a revenue item and is not included as an asset in the accounts, in view of the difficulty in establishing a realisable value.

Investments means the value of the M&G Charifund and the portfolio managed by Charles Stanley & Co. Ltd (CS). The clock benefaction holds 188 Central Board of Finance (CBF) Income Units All investments declined in value during the year.

There were no disclosable transactions in respect of PCC members, nor persons closely connected with them, nor other related parties.

A connected charity, Waldron 800 Trust, operates independently. Its purpose is to support ministry within the Parish and a contribution to ministry costs of £1,700 was made in 2018

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Appendices

1) School Governors’ Report

Our Church school at Cross in Hand has had another very busy year and so have the governors. Due to the reduction in classes in September 2017 we now have excellent dedicated separate rooms for art and music, thus reducing the need for setting up and clearing away. As a Church school we are subject to two official, periodic inspections, one by Ofsted and one by the Diocese, who appoint an inspector to determine how we are performing as a Church school. Our Diocesan inspection took place on 22 May 2018 and we were delighted to receive the outcome of Outstanding, maintaining our categorisation from our previous inspection in 2012. We await our Ofsted inspection which could come at any time . Our site-manager has undertaken considerable redecoration of the premises, particularly during the summer break, to ensure we have a bright, cheerful environment suitable for learning. During the summer break old windows and doors across the school were replaced by county contractors.Due to personal commitments I stepped down as Chair of Governors in September. My able successor is Vicky Crouch whom many of you may have met at our Nine Lessons and Carols service in December. As with schools across the country the budget needs constant stretching and the Finance Committee continued to meet monthly. However, late in July we were given the go ahead to increase our 9 classes to 10 and this is working well. Visits to Saint Bartholomew’s have continued enabling children to learn about the building and its history. The Leavers’ Service was again held in July for those leaving the school prior to embarking on their Secondary education. Father George regularly attends collective worship on Monday mornings before starting his secular work for the week.

Carollyn StanbridgeFoundation Governor

2) Dallington Deanery Synod Report

Three Deanery Synod Meetings were held in 2018. At each meeting Bryan Gibson gave a treasurer’s report. On December 4th he reported on the Approval of the Deanery Budget for 2019 and noted that all historical arrears in this Deanery have been settled for 2018. He stressed that parishes should only pledge what they can afford in future. Other key points from each meeting were as follows.

1) 14th March at St Phillip's, Burwash Weald

Main Speaker: Mr Scott Ralph, Diocesan Property Director on the work of his Department.

There is a new maintenance plan for the following 20-years with built in flexibility to allow for changing circumstances.

Three surveyors have been appointed, Mr John Shepherd covering this Deanery. Parishes advised to follow the Hand-book for reporting problems.

Parish Report from Revd Annette Hawkins, Salehurst, Robertsbridge and Hurst Green.Holy Trinity Hurst Green has become quite informal in character with a very lively, growing congregation outreaching in a variety of ways including a weekly Charity Shop. St Mary's Saleshurst is modernising but retains a mixture of traditional and all age services.

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2) 14th June at Christ Church Horam

Main Speaker: The Revd Dr Daniel Inman, The Diocesan Director of Ordinands.

The Church is aiming to increase the number of clergy by the 50%.

Vocation is not restricted to the ordained clergy and ways that the lay community can be encouraged to embrace other ways of serving Christ will be explored throughout the year. The Order of St Richard will be introduced to recognise the importance and value of lay vocation, a service is planned to be held in Chichester Cathedral in the Autumn of 2019 for those selected to receive this honour.

Parish Report from Revd Christian Mitchell, United Benefice of Heathfield.Revd Mitchell explained that the United Benefice was genuinely coming together and not just nominally 'on paper'. Joint social events have proved successful in raising the profile of the United Benefice and the necessary changes to the worship pattern. This has resulted in more combined acts of worship and of a better quality.

3) 4th December at St Mary Magdalene, Wartling

Main Speaker: The Revd Diane Watts, Together in Sussex Development Worker, ‘The Church and the Common Good’.

Diane’s role involves a joint venture between the diocese and the church development fund. She has been in post for 18 months and works across 365 parishes. Her aim is to facilitate the sharing of best practise with regard to establishing links between church and community groups.

Parish Report from Revd Graham Lewis for the parish of St Philips, Burwash Weald.Revd Lewis told how he had inherited a very lively congregation some three years ago and is pleased to report that the parish continues to thrive. He also noted that as a qualified business trainer he is concerned at the very high costs being incurred in training future clergy.

3) Churches together in Heathfield (CTH)

This is now a strong group, uniting churches throughout the district, as far apart as Etchingham, Warbleton, Horam and Holy Cross Priory, as well as churches in Heathfield itself. It includes 2 Church of England United Benefices as well as 4 other Parishes; the local Roman Catholic and Methodist congregations; Union church; Welcome Baptist Church; Horam Chapel and Kings Church.

As well as regular Sunday Evening United Services other regular events include providing refreshments at Le Marche and a Sanctuary Tent at the Heathfield show, where people can have a quiet rest, take care of babies and allow their children some play space. As in previous years, books have been distributed to every child leaving Primary Education in the area; Christmas cards distributed giving details of Christmas events at all the churches; and a 24 Hour Pray vigil kept.

Social events this year have included a supper together, as well as a breakfast. The Café Church, which used to meet in Costa’s has now morphed into Meeting Point, a discussion and social group which has met several times at various venues.

The main activity each year is at Easter. Each Sunday evening throughout Lent courses are held at the Community Centre in Heathfield, attended by 50 or so people. On Good Friday we meet and fill the Union Church before about half the congregation carry the service outside and proceed along the High Street in a Walk of Witness; finishing off back at the Union Church for drinks and Hot Cross Buns!

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CTH is not just interested in church activities, This year has seen several talks and discussions on various social topics, including Debt Management (with Christians Against Poverty); the refugee crisis; and whether Heathfield needs its own food bank (or could we help with transport to the food band in Hailsham). Donations have also been made to Street Pastors and Wealden Works (Previously Heathfield Works)

Should you be interested in any of the future services and events, a leaflet is available in both churches, look for the bright yellow cover! (or see me or Ray Cade)

Margaret Hughes

4) Choir & Music

We remain fortunate to have a choir in our two churches and we appreciate and thank all those who make such a valued contribution each week. In particular, we thank Judith Clark who adopted the mantle of Music Co-ordinator and has done much to maintain standards and ensure that the music in our churches remains both relevant and liturgically correct. We have benefited from additional contributions by way of anthems at an increasing number of services and, of course, our special seasonal services are always delightful occasions, in particular the Nine Lessons and Carols service with a little more audience participation was much appreciated.

New members would always be welcomed, so let Judith know if you feel called to support us in this way.

OrgansBoth organs should now be functioning somewhat better than they ended 2017 with considerable expense having been incurred on the restoration at All Saints, in particular. We remain ever grateful to Peter Lawrence and Simon Hobbs for their ongoing support.

5) Parish Prayer Group

The group met throughout the year on Wednesdays, with the exception of Lent, Advent and a break in August. We continue to vary our meeting venues to strengthen our presence around the parish. Our regular venues are St Bart’s, Martlet House and Culverwood. All are welcome. The Parish Book of Prayer is placed on the altar at all main services. Thank you for all your requests for prayer, and updates about those whom we have been asked to include. Please remember to inform us if you wish your request to remain confidential.Prayer continues whether or not we meet for communal prayer and the use of email ensures that all regular attendees are alerted to those in need.. Please contact Father George if you would like to join us, either on a regular or occasional Wednesday.Please continue to place your prayer requests in the boxes provided at the back of both All Saints and St Bartholomews.

Carollyn Stanbridge

6) Pastoral & Fellowship

Our small and dedicated team of lay people have continued to support parishioners and members of the community alike, throughout all their varied needs during the past 12 months.We have supported individuals and families alike, at time of crisis with visits and follow up telephone calls. We continue to support and be available for as long as we are needed once their lives begin to return to ‘normal.’

Happier things are the arrangement of weddings where the Parish Care Team liaise with prospective Brides and Grooms to deal with the secular requirements, then help with choice of music, flowers,

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bellringers etc. George then has only to deal with the important bits before and on their selected special days!It has been a busy year including sad and happy times but we are proud to provide this supportive and necessary part of parish life.With thanks to everyone in our congregations who are our eyes and ears. Between us all we managed to reach those who needs us.

Sarah and Graeme Mackenzie

7) Friends of Waldron Churches

The Friends’ events in 2018 began in April with an excellent concert by Sussex Harmony in rural dress. Richard Fanshawe’s Photographic Competition was again held in November in All Saints, where Graeme Mackenzie’s exhibition of World War One memorabilia of relatives of Waldron residents could also be viewed. That month there was also a Quiz Night organised by Ray Cade and his wife and supported my members of the Friends, in State Hall. The well-established Christmas Fair (previously between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m) was in December 2018 supplanted by an innovation – a Cracking Christmas Craft Fair, held indoors at All Saints Church between noon and 3 pm . It was a cracking success and we intend to repeat it. During the year FoWC volunteers assisted at a number of other fund raising events, their resources including manpower (in its wider sense), large and small poster display boards and infinite enthusiasm. The Organ Fund was hugely successful, thanks to the initiative of our vicar, his wife, and numerous generous village residents.

FoWC funds remain around £50K (including £1000 towards a toilet at All Saints and £30K held by the PCC on behalf of the FoWC for maximal deposit account return). Happily, the urgency of the Relief Fund was itself relieved by the PCC’s installation of a Portaloo discreetly placed behind each of our two churches. The Friends, having already funded the new northwest tiled flooring in All Saints which opened up that area for socialising, have since paid for the mobile glass-topped servery which is proving very useful at such times, particularly after Sunday services. Having also contributed towards the new liturgical lighting, the Friends would also like to offer help towards installing ‘Performance Lighting’ to widen the secular use of All Saints, and are currently exploring possible grants aimed at encouraging community involvement.

The Friends continue to follow with interest the Parochial Church Council’s plans for improving and maintaining St Bart’s and All Saints’ churches, which they are keen to support even-handedly at both venues.

Angela Hough and Richard Fanshawe have now left The Friends’ committee having made much appreciated contributions. The committee is keen to recruit new blood, and of course volunteers, either for the committee or to help at events, are always welcome.

Tim WilliamsChairman, FoWC

8) Freewill Offering & Gift Aid

This scheme has shrunk somewhat this year due to the commencement of the Parish Giving Scheme, The two schemes are completely separate for Gift Aid purposes. The FWO scheme can also receive variable cash donations, weekly, monthly or occasional. Numbered envelopes are available for regular givers or envelopes on which you can complete your details. Both these methods allow us to claim Gift Aid on your donations,

However it is important that this scheme continues as it qualifies us to claim under the Gift Aid Small Donations scheme (GADS), This means we can claim tax back on up to £8000 of small, anonymous

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cash donations (up to £20) given within each church, as collections etc. There are some restrictions in that there is a minimum number of people who should be present and these must include an official of the Church. The main restriction is that we can only claim equivalent to ten times the giving under our FWO Gift Aid Scheme. Therefore, although we might not claim the full amount each year, to claim the maximum available we must continue to receive £1600 between the two churches under the FWO Scheme..

Please note that, for us to claim gift aid, you must be a UK tax payer and that, if you pay less Income and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed by all charities to whom you give under gift aid (ie if any part of your donations are out of income which had not had tax deducted) in any year, it is legally your responsibility to make up any difference to HM Customs & Revenue. Please therefore inform me if your tax position changes. (If appropriate and so requested, we can claim gift aid on part of your donation only)

We do, however, ask you prayerfully review your giving, at regular intervals.

Because gift aid must be claimed in line with our accounting year, the amount included in the accounts always refers to the previous year. Next year our claim will be increased as it will include donations to the Organ Fund and the planned building work.

If you have any queries, require notice of giving for tax purposes, or would like further information on any of these matters, please see me.

Margaret Hughes (FWO Secretary)

9) Family Support Work (FSW)

The Dallington Deanery committee continue to increase awareness of our Diocesan charity alongside our fundraising and giving activities.One of the Heathfield Benefice Lent lunches raised funds for FSW and the choice of soups did not make a choice easy. Teddy bear picnics were organised to promote and raise funds across Churches in the Deanery. However, this year the Dallington Deanery fundraising in 2018 was focused on providing teas at two NGA Burwash Open Garden events. The event on 28 April was a sunny but chilly day that saw a steady stream of customers seeking refreshments. However, this proved to be quite a quiet day compared to the second event on 23 June when the weather was glorious and the queue for refreshments never seemed to diminish! Special thanks to all providers of cake, scones, biscuits etc. We could not have had such profitable days without your fantastic contributions.We finished the year with our now regular tree at the St Bartholomew’s in Burwash Christmas Tree Festival and benefited from various collections from Church services across the Deanery During the year the regular donations of food, household equipment, goods for the Eastbourne shop and cakes for events have been gratefully received. The extra effort during Lent (including Easter eggs), pre-summer holiday (including games and equipment), at harvest time and gifts for all family members at our Advent services really are appreciated by our families in need.There is a labelled container in each church for you to leave donations of food, toiletries, cleaners etc (if you use it so will the FSW families).Thank you for your continued support.

Carollyn StanbridgeSecretary Dallington Deanery FSW Committee

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10) Caring & Sharing

The Caring and Sharing Scheme is now in its thirty-seventh year having started in Eastbourne in 1982. The scheme has raised over £2.75m – with the Charity currently funding fifteen projects in the developing world. Unfortunately, with declining membership the total amount falls annually.There are currently just four members from our churches and we support, Street Educators Medellin, Columbia, Tanzania School for Deaf and (Save the Children) Fundatia New Life, Romania.

The Scheme is based on a form of sacrificial giving, for members to give up a little of their comparative wealth and the money saved sent to projects in poorer countries to help provide the basic needs of life. This sacrifice is not expected to be a major one as it is in the regularity of the giving that it grows in value.Following the death of David Price – I have endeavoured to collect and forward our giving.If anyone is interested in this worthy cause – there are leaflets at the back of both our churches and we would endeavour to give what information we can.

Anne Brine – February 2019

11) Bellringers Report

The good news is that I now have fifteen in my merry band of ringers. Not having enough to ring for a Sunday service is now, hopefully, a thing of the past.I was very fortunate to recruit and teach two more local people, Jackie and Paul, during this last year. What is really special about them is that they are part of the government led initiative of ‘Ringing Remembers’. This was specifically to recruit at least fourteen hundred new ringers to replace that number of British bell ringers who perished during the First World War. Fortunately, Waldron did not suffer any losses.I understand that this figure was surpassed and at least two and a half thousand took up the challenge and learned the art of bell ringing. I started teaching Jackie and Paul in May with the intention that they would be able to ring our lovely bells, half muffled, for the all-important Remembrance Service in November. This they did and their efforts were rewarded by receiving a very special ‘Ringing Remembers’ badge which is a unique keepsake. Well Done.Last year sixteen bands of bell ringers visited our tower. The experts rang three peals and eight quarter peals. The dangers of bell ringing was highlighted in September with a visiting bank from Seaford. A novice was ringing a bell that was probably too heavy for his ability. The end result was a broken wooden bar and rope guide bracket on the frame above his head. Luckily the end result was a few bruises and grazes but was also a good reminder to my new ringers how things can go wrong very quickly. My thanks to Jeff Burgess of Burgess Engineering in Back Lane who fabricated a new bracket and repaired the broken one as a spare. The bar was replaced by one that was never used in 1987 when our bells were restored.I have completed mu annual cleaning in the belfry and clockroom sucking up the usual spiders and cobwebs, but this year also an abundance of flies and ladybirds.As always my thanks to George, Mobbs, Ian and the PCC for all of your support. My ringers really do appreciate your many favourable comments and we are proud to be part of the church.

Brian Tompsett

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12) Parish Pealers

The Parish Pealers have had another successful and busy year playing at nursing homes in Cross in Hand, Heathfield and Horam.

We began celebrating Epiphany with the nuns at The Monastery of the Visitation at Foxhunt Green. This was followed by St Patrick’s Day at Holy Cross Care Home where we played a selection of Irish folk songs.In April we entertained the Rother Ladies’ Group at Etchingham and in September the Women’s Fellowship at the Union Church in Heathfield.Our last event was the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Bartholomew’s Church where we played the Sussex Carol.From donations received we were able to give £150 each to Crisis at Christmas and The Trussel Trust.New members are always welcome and anyone interested should contact me on 01435 862666.

Maureen Keith

13) Linked Hands

Linked Hands was formed in 2003 in order to give care and support for the elderly in our community.The Group has flourished and provides a social gathering for 40-50 members for those living in TN21. Meetings are once per month on Monday mornings, either in Cross-in-Hand Village Hall or coach trips out in the summer. Much of the success is due to such good support from our Parish. Volunteers are our Committee Members and we have kind offers to provide cakes, lifts and visiting the housebound.Some members have joined a singing group and others swim weekly. In 2018 we had some excellent speakers on a wide range of subjects and a demonstration and tasting of Wiltshire Farm Foods, who are able to deliver complete meals to each house.Outings were very varied including a canal boat trip.We are always pleased to have new members and volunteers to help at our meetings are most welcome.

Marion E Perry – 01435 867271 14) Lost & Found

This is the name of our parish bereavement group. It’s a club that no one would ever wish to qualify for, of course – but it is nevertheless a group of people who find joy and laughter in the company of others who they know share the grief of loss of someone they love, whether they want to talk about it or not. It’s not a church group, in the sense that there is no specific religious commitment in what we do - we’re simply there as a mutually supportive group for anyone who would like to join in.

During 2018, we had our first event in April, after the very cold spring – a cold beef and baked spud lunch at Culverwood. In mid-May we had a Bluebell Walk around Arlington Farm Trail. We then enjoyed a two-course pub lunch at The Star Inn at Waldron in June followed by another in early July at The Runt in Tun pub. As the weather improved we had a very long and full table with delicious summer dishes on the terrace at Culverwood in early August. The Harvest Lunch in early October, following Rev.George’s pilgrimage saw quite a few members from Lost & Found too. Our final event of the year was hosted by the Holy Cross Priory where a dozen of us shared a pre-Christmas lunch together.

If you’d like to join in or simply be kept informed of upcoming Lost & Found events, do please let Mobbs Pitcher know. You’ll always be most welcome.

Mobbs Pitcher

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