Charity registration number 215409 (England and Wales)
Company registration number 00334296
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Committee Members
Mr P Brunning
Mr S Burton
Mr D Cooke
Mr D Fielding
Mr M Fisher
Mr D Gayton
Dr O Jack
Mr E Mellor
Charity number
215409
Company number
00334296
Registered office
5 Briar Close
Banbury
Oxfordshire
England
OX16 9DS
Independent examiner
Oliver Read FCCA ACA
James Todd & Co Limited
Drayton House
Drayton Lane
Drayton
Chichester
West Sussex
PO20 2EW
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
CONTENTS
Page
Committee Members' report
1 - 3
Independent examiner's report
4
Statement of financial activities
5
Balance sheet
6
Statement of cash flows
7
Notes to the financial statements
8 - 21
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
COMMITTEE MEMBERS' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 1 -

The committee members present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: 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)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

The Mission is an interdenominational evangelical Christian organisation whole primary objectives are twofold:

 

The principal activity of the Mission workers is to go into outdoor public places, such as the following: pedestrianized shopping areas, markets, agricultural shows, carnivals, fairgrounds and race-courses in order to share the Christian message with those who might not have the opportunity to hear it by any other means. This is done through preaching, literature distribution, personal conversation, and, in the summer time, at two venues where Beach Missions are held. Many thousands of school children are also given the same opportunity, through the Mission's three Bible Exhibitions and Pilgrim's Progress Exhibition.

Public benefit

The Mission Committee (Trustees) have continued to pay due regard to the Public Benefit guidance issued by the Charity Commission when considering the activities of the charity. The primary objective of the Mission is to communicate the Christian message to those who know little or nothing about it. During 2024, countless people heard something of the message through open-air preaching undertaken by our evangelists and associate workers. As a result of the preaching, numerous personal conversations take place with individuals and helpful literature has been offered from a free literature table. Often, we can recommend such enquirers to local churches where they can receive further spiritual and pastoral support.

Activities

Often our workers are the only people who provide a listening ear to hurting people met on the streets. Some workers have been able to meet practical needs such as directing those with alcohol or drug problems to organisations that can help them, homeless people to local shelters and others with specific issues to appropriate charities with expertise in that field.

 

Following impediments from the Coronavirus situation, our school’s resources have been used more by churches around the UK. These Bible Exhibitions have been well received by pupils and staff of schools attending these sessions.

Achievements and performance

During 2024 we were able to appoint two new evangelists: a full-time worker operating in Southern England and a part-time worker to further strengthen the work of the Mission in London. The Open-Air Mission began in Whitechapel, and for the first century of its existence had a strong presence in London. However, in recent years OAM has had a very limited presence in London, so the addition of a new worker here is a cause for thanksgiving. The Trainee Evangelist Scheme (volunteer role) was filled until the end of August, where a young man from Derbyshire gained practical experience in evangelism, benefitting from working alongside several different staff evangelists and joining several team events.

All planned team events and beach missions went ahead as normal, maximising gospel opportunities in these locations whilst also developing links with local supporters and supporting churches.

We have been encouraged by over 2,000 open-air meetings that took place during the year in around 170 different locations. Around 250 ‘Enquirers’ Packs’ were sent out to those requesting further information. As a direct result of our workers being out on the streets sharing the good news of the Christian message, many interested people have attended local churches and, encouragingly, some have come to put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
COMMITTEE MEMBERS' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 2 -
Financial review

Income from donations and gifts has increased to £433,582 from £356,064 in the prior year. Meanwhile legacy income had decreased to £127,777 from £130,141 in the previous year. Total income from all sources increased to £628,727 compared with £550,898 in 2023.

 

Overall, there was a deficit of in the year of £203,613 compared with £221,256 in 2023.

 

The Mission's investments have been affected by fluctuations of the stock market and, as a result, the investments have increased by £48,058 in the year, taking the net incoming resources figure to a deficit of £155,555 (2023: Deficit of £198,033).

 

We are very thankful to all of our supporters for their prayerful and practical support of the work of the Mission through another year. We look to the Lord for the continued resources that we need as we seek to reach out with the Gospel to those around us.

Reserves policy

The reserves policy is of prime importance in enabling the Mission to fulfil its main objectives. The Committee deem it to be prudent to maintain the Charity reserves at a level representing 18 months of expenditure to achieve its objectives for the under mentioned reasons:

Investment policy

In accordance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Committee has the power to invest surplus resources as they see fit.

 

The present portfolio is yielding a reasonable return, particularly in prevailing market conditions and a very low Bank of England base rate. To be able to maintain returns in excess of cost of living indices remains a problem.

 

The committee will continue its policy of safe, prudent and conservative investment. Our ethical criteria require exclusion from the portfolio of companies majoring in gambling, alcohol or tobacco.

Plans for future periods

Several projects are in progress to help further the work of the Mission and strengthen our supporter base.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a company limited by guarantee, having no share capital. It is also a registered charity. It is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. The flysheet to the accounts lists the registration details of the charity and other pertinent information.

The committee members, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:

Mr P Brunning
Mr S Burton
Mr D Cooke
Mr D Fielding
Mr M Fisher
Mr D Gayton
Dr O Jack
Mr E Mellor
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
COMMITTEE MEMBERS' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 3 -
Recruitment and appointment of trustees

None of the committee members has any beneficial interest in the company. All of the committee members are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.

Training of the Trustees is regularly reviewed, but is not something that can be done in isolation from the Mission. All Committee decisions are taken by majority voting and therefore new members / trustees are trained by the experience of corporate discussion and decision-making.

The committee members' report was approved by the Board of Committee Members.

Mr D Fielding
Trustee
28 May 2025
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS OF THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
- 4 -

I report to the committee members on my examination of the financial statements of The Open-Air Mission (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the committee members of the charity (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.

Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act 2011.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000, the independent examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants and an Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, 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 that in any material respect:

1

accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the Companies Act 2006.

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 Companies Act 2006 other than any requirement that the financial statements 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 financial statements 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 financial statements to be reached.

Oliver Read FCCA ACA
James Todd & Co Limited
Drayton House
Drayton Lane
Drayton
Chichester
West Sussex
PO20 2EW
Dated: 28 May 2025
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 5 -
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Total
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
general
designated
general
designated
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
3
561,359
-
561,359
486,205
-
486,205
Charitable activities
4
20,692
-
20,692
20,598
-
20,598
Investments
5
45,800
-
45,800
44,094
-
44,094
Other income
6
877
-
877
-
-
-
Total income
628,728
-
628,728
550,897
-
550,897
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
77,597
-
77,597
66,605
-
66,605
Charitable activities
8
751,006
3,738
754,744
697,834
6,012
703,846
Other expenditure
13
-
-
-
1,702
-
1,702
Total expenditure
828,603
3,738
832,341
766,141
6,012
772,153
Net gains/(losses) on investments
14
-
48,058
48,058
-
23,223
23,223
Net income/(expenditure)
(199,875)
44,320
(155,555)
(215,244)
17,211
(198,033)
Transfers between funds
278,835
(278,835)
-
(216,409)
216,409
-
Net movement in funds
10
78,960
(234,515)
(155,555)
(431,653)
233,620
(198,033)
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 January 2024
248,805
1,696,750
1,945,555
680,458
1,463,130
2,143,588
Fund balances at 31 December 2024
327,765
1,462,235
1,790,000
248,805
1,696,750
1,945,555

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 6 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
16
10,506
16,617
Investments
17
1,451,729
1,680,133
1,462,235
1,696,750
Current assets
Stocks
18
10,723
21,125
Debtors
19
56,684
80,915
Cash at bank and in hand
268,131
154,128
335,538
256,168
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
20
(7,773)
(7,363)
Net current assets
327,765
248,805
Total assets less current liabilities
1,790,000
1,945,555
Net assets
1,790,000
1,945,555
The funds of the charity
Unrestricted funds - general
327,765
248,805
Unrestricted funds - designated
23
1,462,235
1,696,750
1,790,000
1,945,555

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 December 2024.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

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.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the committee members on 28 May 2025
Mr D Cooke
Mr D  Fielding
Trustee
Trustee
Company registration number 00334296 (England and Wales)
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 7 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash absorbed by operations
27
(211,509)
(9,874)
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
-
(14,500)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed assets
3,250
701
Proceeds from Investment
176,462
(203,528)
Proceeds from disposal of other investments
100,000
(782)
Investment income received
45,800
44,094
Net cash generated from/(used in) investing activities
325,512
(174,015)
Net cash generated from financing activities
-
-
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
114,003
(183,889)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
154,128
338,017
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
268,131
154,128
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 8 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

The Open-Air Mission is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 5 Briar Close, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 9DS, England.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: 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)" (effective 1 January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2
Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the committee members have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the committee members continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3
Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the committee members in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Funds have been designated to the value of the tangible fixed assets and investments held. This is to reflect that the monies invested in these assets are not freely available to spend without realising the assets which would restrict the generation of future income for the charity.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.4
Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is reasonably certain.

Income from trading activities relate to the sale of literature, and is recognised when goods are sold.

Amounts received in relation to the supporters' conference are recognised in the accounting period in which the conference takes place. Amounts received in advance are carried as deferred income.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 9 -

Investment income is included on the accruals basis.

1.5
Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

 

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

 

The committee has charged all evangelists' costs, distributed literature and supporting services to charitable activities, including the pensions of past employees. Deputation speaker's costs under cost of generating gifts and donations represents 5% of evangelists' salaries to take account of the deputation work they undertake in Churches and school assemblies. The Field Operation Manager's salary has been allocated as 75% direct charitable activities and 25% administration to recognise the time spent carrying out evangelistic work and preaching.

 

Administrative salaries and costs associated with the Mission headquarters have been shown as support costs under charitable activities. The costs of complying with the Mission's statutory obligations have been treated as governance.

 

The Mission is not registered for VAT and is therefore unable to reclaim VAT on expenditure; all amounts of VAT are recorded with the sums to which they are charged. Expenditure is charged to the accounts on the accruals basis.

 

1.6
Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Fixtures and fittings
Straight line over 5 years
Computers
Straight line over 5 years
Motor vehicles
25% reducing balance

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

Small items costing less than £1,000 are not capitalised but treated as expenses in the year of purchase through the statement of Financial Activities.

1.7
Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transaction price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Cash held on deposit that does not meet the SORP definition of current asset investments are recorded within fixed asset investments at their carrying value. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 10 -
1.8
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.9
Stocks

Inventories of tracts, booklets and CD's are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, based on an average estimated cost. Many of the items of inventory are given away freely leading to a net realisable value of £Nil, whilst other are sold. A stock provision is calculated for freely distributed items, based on the proportion given away during the financial year.

 

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price, less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

1.10
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.11
Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

 

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

 

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

 

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 11 -
Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.12
Taxation

As a registered charity, the Mission has no liability to United Kingdom corporation tax.

1.13
Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

 

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.14
Retirement benefits

The pension costs charged in the accounts represent the contributions payable by the Mission during the year in accordance with FRS17. Staff are being provided through a discretionary defined contribution pension scheme with the assets held separately from those of the Mission in a fund administered by Friends Life.

2
Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the committee members are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

3
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Donations and gifts
433,582
356,064
Legacies
127,777
130,141
561,359
486,205
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 12 -
4
Income from charitable activities
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Activities in furtherance of the charity's objects
Sale of leaflet, booklets, CDs and event income
20,692
20,598
5
Income from investments
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Income from listed investments
36,841
35,479
Interest received from listed investments
8,959
8,615
45,800
44,094
6
Other income
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Net gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
877
-
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 13 -
7
Expenditure on raising funds
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Fundraising and publicity
Advertising
438
-
Other fundraising costs
13,035
17,210
Staff costs
27,447
24,846
40,920
42,056
Trading costs
Other trading activities
36,677
24,549
Total costs
77,597
66,605
8
Expenditure on charitable activities
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
2024
2023
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
560,562
507,905
Depreciation and impairment
3,738
6,012
Direct costs
22,855
24,068
Insurance
11,234
12,987
Motor expenses
49,826
46,257
Sundry
4,458
6,784
Beach mission
7,224
3,386
Bible Exhibition expenses
1,392
3,782
661,289
611,181
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support
85,253
86,156
Governance
8,202
6,509
754,744
703,846
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
751,006
697,834
Unrestricted funds - designated
3,738
6,012
754,744
703,846
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 14 -
9
Support costs allocated to activities
2024
2023
£
£
Staff costs
59,064
63,738
Rent and rates
7,698
1,762
Light and heat
-
(249)
Telephone
1,187
894
Printing, Postage, stationary and computer costs
17,304
20,011
Governance costs
8,202
6,509
93,455
92,665
Analysed between:
Charitable activities
93,455
92,665
2024
2023
Governance costs comprise:
£
£
Audit fees
2,100
2,000
Accountancy
3,210
2,678
Legal and professional
1,630
1,088
Share of support costs
1,262
743
8,202
6,509
10
Net movement in funds
2024
2023
£
£
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial statements
2,100
2,000
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
3,738
6,012
(Profit)/loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(877)
1,702
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 15 -
11
Committee Members

None of the Committee members (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration during the year. During the year, two trustees were reimbursed a total of £1,262 (2023: two trustees reimbursed a total of £743) for travel expenses and other direct costs.

 

Total donations received from the trustees and their related parties during the year was £5,823 (2023: £3,546). Total sales received from the trustees and their related parties during the year was £39 (2023: £Nil).

 

A relative of one trustee was employed by the charity during the year and received a gross salary of £4,798 (2023: £6,606).

 

During the year, £881 (2023: £912) was spent on Trustee and Professional Indemnity Insurance. The purpose of this insurance is to cover both the Committee members and the Mission.

 

There were no other disclosable related party transactions during the year.

12
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024
2023
Number
Number
Evangelists
16
15
Office and support staff
4
4
Total
20
19
Employment costs
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
561,197
517,603
Social security costs
46,819
43,057
Other pension costs
39,057
35,829
647,073
596,489
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
Remuneration of key management personnel

The remuneration of key management personnel was as follows:

2024
2023
£
£
Aggregate remuneration
84,554
83,399
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 16 -
13
Other expenditure
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Net loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
-
1,702
14
Gains and losses on investments
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
designated
designated
2024
2023
Gains/(losses) arising on:
£
£
Revaluation of investments
48,058
23,223
15
Taxation

The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.

16
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024
13,003
2,416
45,650
61,069
Disposals
-
-
(10,000)
(10,000)
At 31 December 2024
13,003
2,416
35,650
51,069
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
13,003
1,190
30,259
44,452
Depreciation charged in the year
-
483
3,255
3,738
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
-
(7,627)
(7,627)
At 31 December 2024
13,003
1,673
25,887
40,563
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
-
743
9,763
10,506
At 31 December 2023
-
1,227
15,390
16,617
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 17 -
17
Fixed asset investments
Listed investments
Other investments
Total
£
£
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
1,306,605
373,528
1,680,133
Valuation changes
48,058
-
48,058
Disposals
(100,000)
(176,462)
(276,462)
At 31 December 2024
1,254,663
197,066
1,451,729
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
1,254,663
197,066
1,451,729
At 31 December 2023
1,306,605
373,528
1,680,133
2024
2023
Other investments comprise:
Notes
£
£
Non-current cash investments
197,066
373,528
2024
2023

Listed investments included above:

£
£
Listed investments carrying amount
1,258,364
1,306,605
Fixed asset investments revalued

Investments have been revalued to their open market value at the year end. Listed investments are valued with reference to the London Stock Exchange. All remaining investments are long-term cash investments and are therefore included at their redeemable value.

18
Stocks
2024
2023
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
10,723
21,125

As outlined in the accounting policies, a provision is made each year to impair the closing inventory valuation, thus recognising the proportion of stock that is given away (free of charge) as part of the Mission's charitable activities. An impairment of £10,723 (2023: £7,042) has been reflected in the Statement of Financial Activities.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 18 -
19
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
93
58
Other debtors
46,741
69,284
Prepayments and accrued income
9,850
11,573
56,684
80,915

Included within Other debtors above are £40,700 (2023: £59,200) of legacies debtors which the Mission has been notified of, and which can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. There remain other legacies of which the Mission has been notified, which are as yet not able to be quantified, and hence these have not been included in the accounts.

 

20
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
£
£
Trade creditors
2,463
2,293
Accruals and deferred income
5,310
5,070
7,773
7,363
21
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
39,057
35,829

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

22
Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

The Bible Fund represents monies given for the purchase of new Bibles.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 19 -
23
Unrestricted funds - designated

The income funds of the Mission include the following designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the Committee Members for the generation of future income.

At 1 January 2024
Resources expended
Transfers
Gains and losses
At 31 December 2024
£
£
£
£
£
Tangible fixed assets
4,519
(3,738)
9,725
-
10,506
Investments
1,692,231
-
(288,560)
48,058
1,451,729
1,696,750
(3,738)
(278,835)
48,058
1,462,235
Previous year:
At 1 January 2023
Resources expended
Transfers
Gains and losses
At 31 December 2023
£
£
£
£
£
Tangible fixed assets
10,531
(6,012)
-
-
4,519
Investments
1,452,599
-
216,409
23,223
1,692,231
1,463,130
(6,012)
216,409
23,223
1,696,750

Funds equal to the net book value of tangible fixed assets and market value of investments (including the revaluation reserve) are designated to reflect the restrictions that the assets impose upon the availability of reserves; the money tied up in property and investments is not free to be spent as these assets are essential to the ongoing operations of the Mission. Premises are required to operate from and the investments generate much needed income to supplement supporters' donations. Movements on these funds represent additions and disposals to these categories of assets, as well as depreciation and value adjustments as appropriate.

24
Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 January 2024
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
At 31 December 2024
£
£
£
£
£
General funds
248,805
628,728
(828,603)
278,835
327,765
Previous year:
At 1 January 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
At 31 December 2023
£
£
£
£
£
General funds
680,458
550,897
(766,141)
(216,409)
248,805
THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 20 -
25
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Total
funds
funds
general
designated
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
At 31 December 2024:
Tangible assets
-
10,506
10,506
Investments
-
1,451,729
1,451,729
Current assets/(liabilities)
327,765
-
327,765
327,765
1,462,235
1,790,000
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Total
funds
funds
general
designated
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
At 31 December 2023:
Tangible assets
-
16,617
16,617
Investments
-
1,680,133
1,680,133
Current assets/(liabilities)
248,805
-
248,805
248,805
1,696,750
1,945,555
26
Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2023 - none), other than the transactions disclosed under note 11 Committee Members.

THE OPEN-AIR MISSION
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 21 -
27
Cash absorbed by operations
2024
2023
£
£
Deficit for the year
(155,555)
(198,036)
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities
(45,800)
(44,094)
(Gain)/loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(877)
1,702
Fair value gains and losses on investments
(48,058)
(23,223)
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
3,738
6,012
Movements in working capital:
Decrease/(increase) in stocks
10,402
(8,468)
Decrease in debtors
24,231
256,805
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
410
(572)
Cash absorbed by operations
(211,509)
(9,874)
28
Analysis of changes in net funds

The charity had no material debt during the year.

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