Statement of compliance

These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with FRS 102(1A) The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland and the Companies Act 2006.

Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of land and buildings and certain financial instruments measured at fair value in accordance with the accounting policies.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the company.

Turnover comprises the invoiced value of goods and services supplied by the company.

The taxation expense represents the aggregate amount of current and deferred tax recognised in the reporting period. Tax is recognised in the statement of comprehensive income, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in capital and reserves, respectively.
Current tax is recognised on taxable profit for the current and past periods. Current tax is measured at the amounts of tax expected to pay or recover using the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Deferred tax is recognised in respect of all timing differences at the reporting date. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date that are expected to apply to the reversal of the timing difference.

Proposed dividends are only included as liabilities in the balance sheet when their payment has been approved by the shareholders prior to the balance sheet date.

Intangible assets (including purchased goodwill and patents) are amortised at rates calculated to write off the assets on a straight line basis over their estimated useful economic lives. Impairment of intangible assets is only reviewed where circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be fully recoverable.

Tangible fixed assets, other than freehold land, are stated at cost or valuation less depreciation and any provision for impairment. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost or valuation of fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following basis:

Fixed asset investments are stated at cost less provision for any permanent diminution in value.

Provisions are recognised when the company has a present obligation as a result of a past event which it is more probable than not will result in an outflow of economic benefits that can be reasonably estimated.

The company's preference shares are treated as a financial liability since they are subject to mandatory redemption for a fixed or determinable amount at a fixed or determinable time and are thus included in creditors in the balance sheet rather than as part of the company's issued share capital.