PCC Meeting Minutes – 21st January 2026
Summary of Key Discussions and Decisions
The meeting of the Parochial Church Council was held on Monday 23rd February 2026.
Present: WRM, VS, PG, CG, LC, SM, SH, AF, CD, DR, SA, JH
Apologies for Absence: SJ, JF, SB
Opening Prayer
The meeting was opened with prayer, led by Revd CD, who invited members to reflect on the work and mission of the parish and the matters to be discussed during the meeting.
Conflicts of Interest
Members were invited to declare any conflicts of interest relating to the agenda items. No conflicts of interest were declared.
Approval of Previous Minutes
The minutes of the previous PCC meeting were reviewed and formally agreed as an accurate record. SA will ensure the approved minutes are displayed on the church notice boards and uploaded to the parish website.
Matters Arising
CD reported that work on the Scout hut lease has not progressed since the last meeting due to timing constraints and the absence of Peter Fairweather. The matter remains ongoing. CD advised that a solicitor has been engaged to assist with progressing a new lease at an estimated cost of £2,000.
Members were informed that the new railings have now been fully installed. DR and WRM will arrange for appropriate notices to be added to advise all users.
Ministry and Mission Update
Christmas Services: Thanks, were formally recorded to the clergy for their work over the Christmas period. The Nine Lessons and Carols service was particularly well received. Christingle and Nativity services were well attended, and positive feedback was noted regarding the decorative lighting.
Eco Church: The parish has successfully achieved the Bronze Eco Church Award. Discussion took place regarding next steps including a bug hotel, bike rack, and possible beehives, with initial steps outlined towards the Silver Award.
Lent: There will be no pancake party this year due to the timing of the half-term holiday. An Ash Wednesday service is planned. Bishop Adam will lead a Lent course on three Mondays in March.
Confirmation: A confirmation service will take place at St John’s on Sunday 22nd February at 3.00 pm. Volunteers will assist with refreshments.
Staff Update: TD is due to undergo surgery and will be absent for approximately six to ten weeks. DRead is currently unwell and has reduced duties.
100 Days of Prayer: Financial challenges were acknowledged; however, the parish continues to be reported as thriving despite cost pressures.
Safeguarding
No safeguarding issues were reported at this meeting.
Finance
The PCC was advised that the preparation of the accounts has been delayed due to issues with the bookkeeper. A new auditor has now been appointed.
The January Parish Share payment remains outstanding, with the intention to bring payments up to date by including February’s contribution.
A legacy from Christine Stephens was received, and approval was given for £28,000 to be transferred to the CCLA fund.
The following expenses were approved: Verger £50, winter surcharge £75, and flat expenses £20.
Fabric, Buildings and Churchyard
The lighting installation is scheduled to be at an agreed cost of £10,000.
Clock repairs are ongoing, and an invoice of £1,000 was approved for payment.
Quotations for garden maintenance work are currently being sought.
Church, Social and Community Events
A Race Night is planned for May. The annual parish picnic will take place on Sunday 28th June following the service. Spring cleaning is planned for May. A disco in October and the Christmas Fayre are also planned, with dates to be confirmed.
Any Other Business
Ongoing issues relating to car park management were noted. Guttering issues will be addressed by SM and JH.
Upcoming Meetings
Upcoming PCC Meetings
Wednesday 18 March 2026
End of April (date to be confirmed)
• Discussion of audited accounts
• Thank you to all current PCC members
APCM – Sunday 10 May 2026
• Reports
Wednesday 27 May 2026
• Introduction of new members
• Appointment / confirmation of officers
• Financial overview
Wednesday 1 July 2026
• Parish operations remuneration
Wednesday 16 September 2026
• Safeguarding review
Wednesday 18 November 2026
• Health and safety review
