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COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 06959661
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 1146726
The Witham Hall Ltd
Unaudited Financial Statements
For the Year Ending
31 December 2024
The Witham Hall Ltd
Financial Statements
Year Ended 31 December 2024
Page
Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report)
1
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees
8
Statement of Financial Activities (Including Income and Expenditure Account)
9
Statement of Financial Position
10
Statement of Cash Flows
11
Notes to the Financial Statements
12
The Witham Hall Ltd
Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report)
Year Ended 31 December 2024
The trustees, who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024 .
Chair's report
This has been my first year as Chair of the Witham. So far, the role has been both a challenge and an honour. The Witham is a wonderful place and unique in its offer and its place in our community, but the reality of financial insecurity is present, both historically and today, impacting on all that we do, and all the things that we aspire to do. Therefore we have worked hard as a board and as a team to build a strategy that will enable the Witham to grow and develop income streams that will make us sustainable over time, and enrich the communities that we serve. We are very conscious of the need to manage the risks associated with running an arts and creative hub within a Listed Building that never ceases to need maintenance, repairs and capital works. To that end we ensure that there is a review of our Risk Register at every meeting of the Board.
The best news that I can report on for 2024 is the simply terrific growth trajectory that the Witham has seen in its core activity and in its levels of engagement with our community in Barnard Castle, and beyond, During 2024 income generated by events increased by almost £41,500. The number of shows grew from 91 during 2023 to 126 in 2024. In addition, the change in the programme brought larger audiences into the building, spending more as they came. Our Funny Way To Be partner has arranged a further 33 shows, eight more than the previous year. The average spend on ticket price has increased from £13.54 to £16.89; bigger and 'better' shows can command a higher price.
The number of attendances this year has grown by 7000 to 32,000, of which 21,000 came to live performances, screenings and films; a further 11,000 attendees enjoyed participating in classes and community activities. Our café and bar sales increased by £31,000 - a 16% increase on the previous year - reflecting the increase in volume and price which were necessary to reflect the cost rises in relation to food ingredients and higher wages for our excellent staff.
All of this data shows the effort of the small, highly professional team that not only keeps the Witham running, but is constantly reviewing practice and coming up with bright new ideas to broaden our appeal.
The Board membership has changed during the year, with the loss of some highly valued and longstanding Trustees. During 2025 we will bring new Trustees on board to bring fresh perspectives and challenge to our thinking. We will also spend time in 2025 reviewing the role that our Members can play. We are testing everything that we do against what value it adds to our community, how we can broaden our appeal to new groups, and how we can be sure that everyone feels welcome when they visit the Witham, and that they have a sense of ownership. We are confident that this is the right approach, evidenced by the upsurge to our ticketed sales and attendances mentioned above, and we have basked in the warmth of the community reaction to our wanting to play a greater role. There are lots of examples of our increased visibility and impact in the report that follows, and I hope that you enjoy reading it.
My foreword cannot end without reference to the previous Chair, Shelagh Avery, and the years of commitment that she put into making the Witham the place it is in 2024. My thanks go to Shelagh for the warm handover she gave to me, and her excellent induction into the way the Witham works, and the journey it has travelled. She has now resigned from the Board, but remains a good friend to the Witham, continuing to attend events, and being a willing and able volunteer - thank you Shelagh, you are missed, and always welcome!
Objectives and Activities
The objects of The Witham Hall Limited are:
To promote the benefit of the inhabitants of the area of benefit without distinctions of sex, political, religious or other opinions, by associating with local authorities, voluntary organizations and the inhabitants in a common effort to advance education, promote science, art, literature and the spread of knowledge and to provide facilities for meetings, lecture and classes and other forms of recreation and leisure time occupation with the object of improving the conditions of life for the inhabitants.
The above charitable objects are identical to those of the Barnard Castle Mechanics' Institute and Witham Hall Community Association which owns the land and the buildings occupied by the Witham Hall Ltd.
In setting the objectives and planning the activities of the Trust, the Trustees have carefully considered the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit. Everything that we do is governed by our Vision that the Witham is recognised as a valued, accessible community asset that enables meaningful social change through its thriving Arts Centre in the heart of Barnard Castle and this is reflected in the many activities which are listed below.
Achievements and Performance
2024 has seen a step change in the pace and scope of the activities happening at, in and outside the Witham. Our extended offer has reflected our charitable objectives and mission as we have made a concerted effort to be more community focused and engaged with the people, stakeholders, and other organisations in the town as well as with our loyal customer and volunteer base.
Our Centre Director and her small team have taken the business forward with enthusiasm, commitment and sheer hard work. During 2024 we appointed a new Operations Manager to work closely with our volunteers, a new Catering Supervisor to build up the café offer, and a Social Media Co-ordinator and Content Creator, who has developed our ability to engage with new audiences, communicating swiftly and with huge impact.
Since our Social Media Coordinator started on 10th June 2024, our social media presence has improved on many different platforms, as clearly demonstrated by our analytics for Facebook during the period of this review when our Facebook views reached over 1 million. Our content is reaching a significant audience via their individual accounts, and shows how we are addressing out strategic theme of 'Reach'. Our content engagement too has increased with people talking more about The Witham on social media. Instagram has seen an increase in all analytics, including reaching 29.3k unique accounts. This shows consistent audience growth, including 333 new followers on Instagram and 733 new followers on Facebook.
Our LinkedIn account and follower activity remains modest, although the number of LinkedIn members has now reached 3591. We have also started to use TikTok, posting 222 times and receiving 12k likes.
It is very clear to see that there has been impressive growth across all our social media metrics, particularly on Facebook and Instagram - reach, engagement, and clicks have increased substantially, with numbers from Google Analytics showing an upward trend of people visiting our website. People are engaging more with posts across all platforms, which is helping us build stronger brand awareness and always contributing to our reach.
The role of social media co-ordinator was created with some caution as to cost and potential return. The metrics explained above show the activity being generated by the role holder. However, the real impact of this social media activity in terms of reaching new audiences, taking feedback from our visitors, and advertising all our activities has been proved by a significantly improved footfall. We are delighted that after just a few months the post has proved itself to have real impact, demonstrating a quantifiable return on the investment, and maybe more importantly opened our virtual doors a little wider. We were extremely grateful for the grant from Point North to support this activity in 2025.
The café has continued to be a hub for our regular customers and provides space for pre- and post-event hospitality. This space has its challenges though and as we have seen footfall increase with the enhanced programme of events it has become clear that the servery is no longer fit for purpose with long queues, spaces that are too small for serving, and limited space for customers enjoying refreshments. The imperative to make a new and better space has become much more real with plans for a new Dispensary area at the front of the Witham Hall. We remain indebted to Teesdale Action Partnership for their support.
The refurbishment of Teesdale Leisure Centre gave us the opportunity to offer space for their exercise classes across multiple rooms. This enabled us to open our doors to new customers as well as supporting Teesdale Leisure Centre. This has had a short term but significant impact on our income for 2024. In 2025, we are hoping to have further contributions to income by providing services and facilities needed by the town, such as a Banking Hub, as we consolidate our position on the main street, working in partnership, as an actively good neighbour.
During 2024, the Board has worked on its Strategy towards 2030 incorporating seven themes into the
plan, with a clear mission and vision in line with our charitable objects, with progress against the strategic plan to be measured by KPIs. We have also developed a marketing strategy building on previous recommendations to ensure that we maximise the opportunities available to grow the business and develop our brand across and beyond our local geography. Whilst the strategy is underpinned by our Mission and Vision, the themes running throughout build on our ability to be financially viable, sustainable and confident of success, as well as putting the different communities we serve at the heart of all we do. Financial success is key to our being able to look after the wonderful building which houses our increasingly diverse offer. Relevance to our visitors, and to new audiences will ensure that ticketed programmes continue to bring revenue in at the levels our business model demands. However, the strategy also articulates the reality that the Witham needs to generate income streams from appropriate funding bodies and benefactors who will bridge the gap between commercial income and ever rising costs, particularly with respect to our estate. We recognise the need to spend time and energy in pursuing both small and large scale grant funding, as well as encouraging donations and legacy giving from our friends and supporters.
We have enjoyed much entertainment at the Witham during 2024 and 2025, with highlights including live music and theatre, conversations with artists and performers, films and national theatre streamings. Our comedy offer has been wide and varied with an array of comedians filling the house, along with a number of very well-received tribute acts. We are very proud to host both the Castle Players and the Barnard Castle Brass Band who remain popular and generous supporters of the Witham.
Building on the success of previous years, the Summer Festival of 2024 has been the most successful to date. We acted on lessons learned to change the offer on Saturday mornings to focus on family activities. We were delighted to host some 800 visitors to our gardens and indoor spaces (when the weather turned against us), attracted by Wetheriggs Animal Farm, Archery and the amazing Samba Band.
We hosted a Mini Brass Bash as part of Durham Brass's activity, bringing some 200 people into our garden to see three amazingly different brass bands perform. The Crepe van that was also present also played a part in attracting people to the garden!
We are delighted that our relationship with the Influence Church, the University of the Third Age, the Womens Insitute and with Barney Wellbeings continue to be strong, with a regular presence in the Hall from all of these local groups. Our other partnerships, additional to those already mentioned include Barnard Castle School, the Barnard Castle Band, the Teesdale Operatic Society, the Castle Players, Barnard Castle Christmas Lights, and the Royal Northern Sinfonia.
During Pride week we hosted a programme of activities to boost attendance from the LGBTQIA+ audiences, including entertainment from Baga Chipz.
We also attracted family audiences with family film & family friendly shows including science, magic and comedy - and wrestling! The newly named Witham Youth Theatre continued to be very popular and of course the Pantomime concluded the year in its usual engaging fashion - oh yes it did!
Our physical position in the Town meant that our building was used as a central meeting and leaving point for The Christmas Lights switch on night parade organised by TCR Hub. We were able to collaborate with stakeholders and fellow businesses to bring an amazing community event.
Grants, Funding and our Estate
As already stated, fundraising in all its forms remains a key activity for the Centre Director. During 2024 contributions were received from Durham County Council (DCC), Durham Community Action, the Arts Council (for capital works), Teesdale Action Partnership (TAP) and Point North. All these contributions were vital support for our ongoing operation. Trustees recognize that fundraising and income generation continues to be a priority and this is an important part of our strategy as it helps assure our financial sustainability and enables us to feed the voracious appetite of a listed building and all its needs.
Examples of works required during 2024 to keep the Witham Hall safe and in good order include repairing of the lift, repairs to the boiler, roofing repair works. However, we have to run to stand still in relation to our buildings maintenance and to this end, in 2025, we will introduce an optional charge (a 'Buildings Levy') on ticket sales to generate ring-fenced maintenance funds.
Donations
All donations are hugely appreciated and vital as the Witham receives 100% of any donations received. These include contributions made in donation boxes, rounding up by ticket purchases, funds from book sales and the contributions made by individuals through Just Giving. Regular contributions such as standing orders have been especially helpful because these are predictable and can help us to prove to funding bodies that we have local support. No contribution is too small but of course, larger amounts were greatly appreciated. Donations - like so many of our activities - rose from almost £12,000 in 2023 to more than £21,500 in 2024. This was the total of all donations, plus Gift Aid, and fund-raising events. We are deeply grateful for every penny received, and we hope that we will be able to count on our donors to keep up their active - and vital - financial support for the Witham.
We were kindly donated enough books to hold a book sale, which resulted in additional income of more than £1000. We also received a one-off donation of £300 simply given by a very generous customer who wanted to show us their support. Special thanks must go to Chris Foote-Wood and the Barnard Castle Band who so generously held fund raising events, donating all the income to the Witham.
Financial Review
The financial statements show what the Trustees consider to be a satisfactory performance for the year.
Total income generated was £525.7k (up £95.4k) and expenditure for the year was £542.0k (up £87.9k), a net deficit on all funds of £16.4k which was a reduction of £7.5k on the previous year. Income from our charitable activities increased by £93k but related costs such as café and bar stock, and wages and salaries, increased by £78.6k. Our establishment increased with the appointment of the social media co-ordinator.
The Trustees set an annual budget and monitor variances closely. Our aim is to eliminate the deficit through a combination of ticket sales and refreshments, classes and room hire, donations and fundraising. Our policy is to seek to ensure sufficient reserves for our operation and the continued care of the heritage building.
Reserves Policy
The company has a formal reserves policy which required the company to hold reserves equivalent to three months operating costs excluding depreciation. This is currently estimated at approximately £65,000 based on an assessment by trustees. The trustees have decided to hold designated funds of £100,782 as detailed in note 21. Therefore, excluding these designated funds, the company had free reserves amounting to £91,467 as at 31 December 2024.
Plans for Future Periods
As well as building on the many successes we have seen during 2024, we must increase the number and range of skills and experience offered to the Witham by our Board. We will also review the role of the Members to ensure that we are properly focussed on our communities. We must continue to seek funding creatively and bravely, to ensure that our future is secure. We must concentrate on ensuring that our hard working team is supported, rewarded and enabled to continue to do their work ensuring that the Witham prospers and grows.
The focus and energy of the team will continue to not only meet the challenges of boosting income, bidding for funding and expanding the programme, but also to explore more commercial avenues that will enable us to balance the budget and meet unexpected costs, without detriment to the offer to all of our diverse customers and communities.
Structure, Governance and Management
The Witham Hall Limited is an incorporated charity, registered with Companies' House on 11 July 2009 and as a charity with the Charity Commission on 30 March 2012.
The Articles of Association of WHL require a minimum of three Directors with no maximum number specified. New Directors may be appointed by the existing Directors at any General Meeting, or may be proposed to the Directors by any Member. The Membership of WHL comprises all of the Directors and all those whose former membership of the Barnard Castle Mechanics' Institute and Witham Hall Community Association was transferred to WHL at 1 January 2013. In March 2022 the widening of the membership scheme was approved to include membership through payment of subscription, and by invitation through contribution of expertise or donations, including donating time as volunteers.
The Management Committee of WHL comprises of all Directors and the Executive Director of the organisation. Organisation and governance Trustees are appointed at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) for a fixed period of three years by nomination by a voting member or recommendation by the existing Trustees, followed by a vote of agreement by a majority. Trustees may serve a further term, if duly appointed at the AGM.
At the AGM 2024, Liz Bromley was appointed as Chair, and Mr Chris Armstrong and Mr Kenny Walker were appointed as new trustees in early 2025. Hazel Spencer resigned in late 2024 after many years of generous service to the Witham and to the Youth Theatre. She will be greatly missed. Our Chair for a number of years, and very longstanding supporter, Shelagh Avery, resigned in December, leaving an impressive legacy of strong management of the Witham, and ongoing leadership following the appointment of the Director.
Barnard Castle Mechanics' Institute (BCMI)
In April 2022, under a scheme approved by the Charity Commission, the Witham Hall Ltd was appointed a sole trustee of the Barnard Castle Mechanics Institute(BCMI). The BCMI is now a special trust of the registered charity the Witham Hall Ltd ( 1146726 ). For all purposes WHL is the trustee of BCMI. WHL will manage and administer BCMI as a separate charity with its objects and assets, and report on it separately within the WHL accounts and formal reports. All the land and buildings form the permanent endowment for the BMCI, managed by the Witham Hall Ltd as the sole trustee.
The BCMI had no financial transactions during the year. The Witham Hall Ltd , as sole trustee, managed the land and buildings which form the permanent endowment of the BCMI . All costs associated with the land and buildings are included in the accounts of the Witham Hall Ltd.
Reference and Administrative Details
Registered charity name
The Witham Hall Ltd
Charity registration number
1146726
Company registration number
06959661
Principal office and registered
3 Horsemarket
office
Barnard Castle
County Durham
DL12 8LY
The Trustees
Mrs N M Grace
Ms H E Spencer
(Resigned 1 November 2024)
Ms S Avery
(Resigned 20 January 2025)
Mr N P Hodges
Mr G A Duffy-McGhie
Mr I W Smith
Mrs J M Turnbull
Mr C E Armstrong
(Appointed 27 January 2025)
Ms A E Bromley
(Appointed 22 April 2024)
Mr K Walker
(Appointed 27 January 2025)
Independent Examiner
Jane Ascroft FCA MA (Cantab)
Enterprise House
Harmire Enterprise Park
Barnard Castle
County Durham
DL12 8XP
Small Company Provisions
This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the small companies exemption.
The trustees' annual report was approved on 28 April 2025 and signed on behalf of the board of trustees by:
Ms A E Bromley
Trustee
The Witham Hall Ltd
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of The Witham Hall Ltd
Year Ended 31 December 2024
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of The Witham Hall Ltd ('the charity') for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Responsibilities and Basis of Report
As the trustees of the company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act’).
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act. Independent Examiner's Statement
Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
2. the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
3. the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
4. the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Jane Ascroft FCA MA (Cantab) Independent Examiner
Enterprise House Harmire Enterprise Park Barnard Castle County Durham DL12 8XP
28 April 2025
The Witham Hall Ltd
Statement of Financial Activities
(including income and expenditure account)
Year Ended 31 December 2024
2024
2023
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Total funds
Total funds
Note
£
£
£
£
Income and endowments
Donations and legacies
5
54,934
39,778
94,712
99,306
Charitable activities
6
423,117
423,117
329,776
Investment income
7
7,822
7,822
1,171
---------
--------
---------
---------
Total income
485,873
39,778
525,651
430,253
---------
--------
---------
---------
Expenditure
Expenditure on charitable activities
8,9
528,508
13,548
542,056
454,115
---------
--------
---------
---------
Total expenditure
528,508
13,548
542,056
454,115
---------
--------
---------
---------
---------
--------
---------
---------
Net expenditure
( 42,635)
26,230
( 16,405)
( 23,862)
---------
--------
---------
---------
Transfers between funds
20,089
(20,089)
---------
--------
---------
---------
Net movement in funds
( 22,546)
6,141
( 16,405)
( 23,862)
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
251,592
32,119
283,711
307,573
---------
--------
---------
---------
Total funds carried forward
229,046
38,260
267,306
283,711
---------
--------
---------
---------
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The Witham Hall Ltd
Statement of Financial Position
31 December 2024
2024
2023
Note
£
£
Fixed Assets
Tangible fixed assets
16
36,797
39,100
Current Assets
Stocks
17
7,236
6,622
Debtors
18
34,362
12,725
Cash at bank and in hand
304,369
352,161
---------
---------
345,967
371,508
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
19
115,458
126,897
---------
---------
Net Current Assets
230,509
244,611
---------
---------
Total Assets Less Current Liabilities
267,306
283,711
---------
---------
Net Assets
267,306
283,711
---------
---------
Funds of the Charity
Restricted funds
38,260
32,119
Unrestricted funds
229,046
251,592
---------
---------
Total charity funds
21
267,306
283,711
---------
---------
For the year ending 31 December 2024 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors' responsibilities:
- The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476 ;
- The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements .
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime.
These financial statements were approved by the board of trustees and authorised for issue on 28 April 2025 , and are signed on behalf of the board by:
Mrs N M Grace
Trustee
The Witham Hall Ltd
Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended 31 December 2024
2024
2023
£
£
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net expenditure
(16,405)
(23,862)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
12,769
13,964
Other interest receivable and similar income
( 7,822)
( 1,171)
Loss on disposal of heritage assets
602
Accrued (income)/expenses
( 6,167)
8,517
Changes in:
Stocks
( 614)
( 2,656)
Trade and other debtors
( 21,637)
23,242
Trade and other creditors
( 5,272)
48,530
--------
--------
Cash generated from operations
( 45,148)
67,166
Interest received
7,822
1,171
--------
--------
Net cash (used in)/from operating activities
( 37,326)
68,337
--------
--------
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Purchase of tangible assets
( 10,466)
( 44,604)
Proceeds from sale of tangible assets
602
Proceeds from sale of heritage assets
(602)
--------
--------
Net cash used in investing activities
( 10,466)
( 44,604)
--------
--------
Net (Decrease)/Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
( 47,792)
23,733
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year
352,161
328,428
---------
---------
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year
304,369
352,161
---------
---------
The Witham Hall Ltd
Notes to the Financial Statements
Year Ended 31 December 2024
1. General Information
The charity is a public benefit entity and a private company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales and a registered charity in England and Wales. The address of the registered office is 3 Horsemarket, Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8LY.
2. Statement of Compliance
These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with FRS 102, 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic 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.
3. 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.
Going Concern
There are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue.
Judgements and Key Sources of Estimation 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 continually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The trustees consider that there are no significant estimates or judgements affecting these financial statements.
Fund Accounting
Unrestricted funds comprise those funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Restricted funds are funds that can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Income
All income is included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income, any performance related conditions attached have been met or are fully within the control of the charity, the income is considered probable and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income: Donations and legacy income is received by way of donations, legacies, grants and gifts and is included in full in the Statement of Financial Activities when receivable. Where legacies have been notified to the charity but the criteria for income recognition have not been met, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed if material. Grants, where entitlement is not conditional on the delivery of a specific performance by the charity, are recognised when the charity becomes unconditionally entitled to the grant. Donated services and facilities are included at the value to the charity, being the amount the charity would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market. Investment income is included when receivable. Income from charitable trading activity is accounted for when earned. Income from grants, where related to performance and specific deliverables, are accounted for as the charity earns the right to consideration by its performance.
Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates:
Costs of raising funds comprise the costs associated with attracting donations, grants and legacies and the costs of trading for fundraising purposes.
Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them.
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 between the expenditure categories of the SOFA on a basis designed to reflect the use of the resource. Costs relating to a particular activity are allocated directly, others are apportioned on an appropriate basis, as set out in the notes to the accounts.
Tangible Assets
Tangible assets are initially recorded at cost, and subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Any tangible 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.
Depreciation
Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost or valuation of an asset, less its residual value, over the useful economic life of that asset as follows:
Website
-
20% straight line
Fixtures and fittings
-
20% reducing balance
Floodlights
-
20% reducing balance
Equipment
-
25% reducing balance & 33% straight line
Kitchen and catering equipment
-
20% reducing balance
Historical Interest Assets are not depreciated as their value is not considered to be impaired with the passing of time.
Impairment of Fixed Assets
A review for indicators of impairment 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.
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
The charity only has financial assets and liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.
Defined Contribution Plans
Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an expense in the period in which the related service 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.
Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
Accrued income and tax recoverable is included at the best estimate of the amounts receivable at the balance sheet date.
Cash at Bank and in Hand
Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
Creditors
Creditors are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
Taxation
The company is considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the company is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purposes.
4. Limited by Guarantee
The company is limited by guarantee. At 31 December 2024 there were seven (2023 - seven) directors, each of whom had undertaken to contribute an amount not exceeding £1 in the event of a winding up.
5. Donations and Legacies
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Total Funds 2024
£
£
£
Donations
Donations
19,859
2,296
22,155
Grants
Durham Community ACB Energy Efficiency Grant
5,000
5,000
Durham Community Action Community Buildings Grant Scheme
9,253
9,253
Teesdale Action Partnership
1,000
1,000
National Lottery Heritage Fund
Durham County Council
30,000
2,008
32,008
County Durham Community Foundation (Point North)
9,360
9,360
Arts Council England Capital project
10,861
10,861
Other grants
Subscriptions
Turret Subscriptions
5,075
5,075
--------
--------
--------
54,934
39,778
94,712
--------
--------
--------
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Total Funds 2023
£
£
£
Donations
Donations
11,123
1,364
12,487
Grants
Durham Community ACB Energy Efficiency Grant
Durham Community Action Community Buildings Grant Scheme
Teesdale Action Partnership
36,000
36,000
National Lottery Heritage Fund
10,000
10,000
Durham County Council
30,000
30,000
County Durham Community Foundation (Point North)
Arts Council England Capital project
Other grants
520
1,500
2,020
Subscriptions
Turret Subscriptions
8,799
8,799
--------
--------
--------
50,442
48,864
99,306
--------
--------
--------
6. Charitable Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds 2024
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds 2023
£
£
£
£
Events income
95,750
95,750
54,309
54,309
Income from gallery and artists
1,611
1,611
837
837
Cafe and bar sales
227,189
227,189
196,228
196,228
Room hire and studio rental
68,733
68,733
55,579
55,579
Visitor information and shop income
14,028
14,028
13,595
13,595
Other charitable income
15,806
15,806
9,228
9,228
---------
---------
---------
---------
423,117
423,117
329,776
329,776
---------
---------
---------
---------
7. Investment Income
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds 2024
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds 2023
£
£
£
£
Bank interest receivable
7,822
7,822
1,171
1,171
-------
-------
-------
-------
8. Expenditure on Charitable Activities by Fund Type
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Total Funds 2024
£
£
£
Educational, Cultural & Entertainment Activities
233,301
3,900
237,201
Support costs
295,207
9,648
304,855
---------
--------
---------
528,508
13,548
542,056
---------
--------
---------
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Total Funds 2023
£
£
£
Educational, Cultural & Entertainment Activities
192,708
4,172
196,880
Support costs
244,526
12,709
257,235
---------
--------
---------
437,234
16,881
454,115
---------
--------
---------
9. Expenditure on Charitable Activities by Activity Type
Activities undertaken directly
Support costs
Total funds 2024
Total fund 2023
£
£
£
£
Educational, Cultural & Entertainment Activities
237,201
303,655
540,856
452,915
Governance costs
1,200
1,200
1,200
---------
---------
---------
---------
237,201
304,855
542,056
454,115
---------
---------
---------
---------
10. Analysis of Support Costs
Analysis of support costs activity 1
Total 2024
Total 2023
£
£
£
Staff costs
155,021
155,021
116,751
Premises
60,416
60,416
50,857
General office
10,449
10,449
10,260
Governance costs
1,200
1,200
1,200
Other costs
65,000
65,000
63,003
Depreciation
12,769
12,769
13,964
---------
---------
---------
304,855
304,855
256,035
---------
---------
---------
11. Net Expenditure
Net expenditure is stated after charging/(crediting):
2024
2023
£
£
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
12,769
13,964
Loss on disposal of heritage assets
602
--------
--------
12. Independent Examination Fees
2024
2023
£
£
Fees payable to the independent examiner for:
Independent examination of the financial statements
1,200
1,200
-------
-------
13. Staff Costs
The total staff costs and employee benefits for the reporting period are analysed as follows:
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
238,167
183,917
Social security costs
10,274
6,391
Employer contributions to pension plans
3,394
2,461
---------
---------
251,835
192,769
---------
---------
The average head count of employees during the year was 27 (2023: 20 ). The average number of full-time equivalent employees during the year is analysed as follows:
2024
2023
No.
No.
Leadership team
2
2
Events, business support & cafe
7
6
----
----
9
8
----
----
No employee received employee benefits of more than £60,000 during the year (2023: Nil).
14. Trustee Remuneration and Expenses
The trustees received neither remuneration nor expenses during the current or previous year.
15. Transfers Between Funds
During the year £20,089 was transferred from restricted to unrestricted funds. This comprised:
2024
£
Restricted grants used to fund capital costs
10,466
Turrets grant used to fund Turrets' costs
4,000
Contribution to overheads by projects
5,623
--------
20,089
--------
16. Tangible Fixed Assets
Website
Fixtures and fittings
Floodlights
Equipment
New kitchen and catering equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 Jan 2024
10,060
16,837
17,320
41,974
13,223
99,414
Additions
740
9,726
10,466
Disposals
( 500)
( 2,815)
( 3,315)
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
---------
At 31 Dec 2024
10,060
17,077
17,320
48,885
13,223
106,565
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
---------
Depreciation
At 1 Jan 2024
8,886
6,184
3,464
39,135
2,645
60,314
Charge for the year
1,174
2,484
2,771
4,224
2,116
12,769
Disposals
( 500)
( 2,815)
( 3,315)
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
---------
At 31 Dec 2024
10,060
8,168
6,235
40,544
4,761
69,768
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
---------
Carrying amount
At 31 Dec 2024
8,909
11,085
8,341
8,462
36,797
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
---------
At 31 Dec 2023
1,174
10,653
13,856
2,839
10,578
39,100
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
---------
17. Stocks
2024
2023
£
£
Café, bar and shop stock
7,236
6,622
-------
-------
18. Debtors
2024
2023
£
£
Trade debtors
12,088
7,877
Accrued income
22,274
2,886
Other debtors
1,962
--------
--------
34,362
12,725
--------
--------
19. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
£
£
Trade creditors
22,862
33,761
Accruals and deferred income
6,752
12,919
Social security and other taxes
24,204
14,248
Deferred income
59,851
64,016
Credit card creditor
442
1,953
Other creditors
1,347
---------
---------
115,458
126,897
---------
---------
20. Pensions and Other Post Retirement Benefits
Defined contribution plans
The amount recognised in income or expenditure as an expense in relation to defined contribution plans was £ 3,394 (2023: £ 2,461 ).
21. Analysis of Charitable Funds
Unrestricted funds
At 1 January 2024
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
At 31 December 2024
£
£
£
£
£
General funds
105,731
485,873
(511,260)
11,123
91,467
Cyclical Building Works
44,000
44,000
Stainthorpe Fund
12,261
(4,479)
7,782
Cultural Programme
5,500
(1,500)
4,000
Capital Funds
39,100
(12,769)
10,466
36,797
Centre Manager fund
45,000
45,000
---------
---------
---------
--------
---------
251,592
485,873
(528,508)
20,089
229,046
---------
---------
---------
--------
---------
At 1 January 2023
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
At 31 December 2023
£
£
£
£
£
General funds
97,443
381,389
(423,270)
50,169
105,731
Cyclical Building Works
44,000
44,000
Stainthorpe Fund
14,814
(2,553)
12,261
Cultural Programme
8,000
(2,500)
5,500
Capital Funds
9,062
(13,964)
44,002
39,100
Centre Manager fund
45,000
45,000
---------
---------
---------
--------
---------
218,319
381,389
(437,234)
89,118
251,592
---------
---------
---------
--------
---------
Purpose of designated funds
Cyclical Building Works - To cover the future required expenditure for cyclical building works;
Stainthorpe Fund - To support live theatre and drama;
Cultural Programme - To support emerging artists in the local area.
Restricted funds
At 1 January 2024
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
At 31 December 2024
£
£
£
£
£
DCC Witham Capital Funding
663
(663)
ACE Capital Building Up the Witham
10,861
(395)
(10,466)
DCC Energy Efficiency
5,000
5,000
DCC Fun and Food
2,008
(2,008)
TAP Best Foot Forward
3,296
(3,900)
604
Point North Social Media support
9,360
9,360
Other
TAP Best Foot Forward
Durham Community Action Community Buildings Grant Scheme
9,253
(9,253)
DCC Capital Works
441
(441)
DCC Resilience
Community Activities Fund
3,115
(3,115)
DCC Community Building Sustainability
Covid Recovery Sustainability
18,200
18,200
Cultural Programme
5,000
5,000
TAP Turrets
4,000
(4,000)
TAP Capital improvements
TAP Enhance the Appeal
NLHF Project
700
700
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
32,119
39,778
(13,548)
(20,089)
38,260
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
At 1 January 2023
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
At 31 December 2023
£
£
£
£
£
DCC Witham Capital Funding
1,363
(700)
663
ACE Capital Building Up the Witham
DCC Energy Efficiency
DCC Fun and Food
TAP Best Foot Forward
Point North Social Media support
Other
500
970
(1,470)
TAP Best Foot Forward
900
1,894
(3,700)
906
Durham Community Action Community Buildings Grant Scheme
DCC Capital Works
441
441
DCC Resilience
37,500
(37,500)
Community Activities Fund
7,600
(4,485)
3,115
DCC Community Building Sustainability
5,000
(5,000)
Covid Recovery Sustainability
30,950
(12,750)
18,200
Cultural Programme
5,000
5,000
TAP Turrets
6,000
(2,000)
4,000
TAP Capital improvements
10,000
(10,000)
TAP Enhance the Appeal
20,000
(3,181)
(16,819)
NLHF Project
10,000
(9,300)
700
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
89,254
48,864
(16,881)
(89,118)
32,119
--------
--------
--------
--------
--------
Details of restricted funds
DCC Witham Capital Funding - To fund remedial and maintenance work;
Arts Council Capital Building Up the Witham - Capital projects to improve sustainability;
DCC Energy Efficiency grant - To fund LED lights;
DCC Fun & Food - To fund out of school activities in holidays;
TAP Best Foot Forward - to support dance & movement classes for the over 65s;
Point North - to fund support for social media activities in 2025;
Durham Community Action Community Buildings Grant Scheme - To fund remedial works to the fabric of the building;
DCC Capital Works - To fund remedial and maintenance work 2019-2021;
DCC Resilience - To support cultural and wellbeing activities;
Community Activities Fund - To support community engagement;
DCC Community Building Sustainability - To fund building improvements;
Covid Recovery Sustainability- to support sustainability post Covid 19;
Cultural programme - to support the delivery of the programme;
Other - To fund other smaller projects.
TAP Turrets - To support Turrets' workshops;
TAP Capital Improvements - To fund kitchen improvements and acoustic curtains;
TAP Enhance the Appeal - To fund floodlighting and Witham room improvements;
NLHF Project - To fund business consultancy on future sustainability.
22. Analysis of Net Assets Between Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Total Funds 2024
£
£
£
Tangible fixed assets
36,797
36,797
Current assets
307,707
38,260
345,967
Creditors less than 1 year
(115,458)
(115,458)
---------
--------
---------
Net assets
229,046
38,260
267,306
---------
--------
---------
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted Funds
Total Funds 2023
£
£
£
Tangible fixed assets
39,100
39,100
Current assets
339,389
32,119
371,508
Creditors less than 1 year
(126,897)
(126,897)
---------
--------
---------
Net assets
251,592
32,119
283,711
---------
--------
---------
23. Barnard Castle Mechanics' Institute (Bcmi)
The BCMI had no financial transactions during the year. The Witham Hall Ltd , as sole trustee, managed the land and buildings which form the permanent endowment of the BCMI . All costs associated with the land and buildings are included in the accounts of the Witham Hall Ltd.
24. Analysis of Changes in Net Debt
At 1 Jan 2024
Cash flows
At 31 Dec 2024
£
£
£
Cash at bank and in hand
352,161
(47,792)
304,369
---------
--------
---------