The Treasurer distributed copies of the Financial Statements for the Year to 31st December 2004. These indicated that Incoming Resources exceeded Resources Used by £4,141. as compared to £2,054 in 2002. This resulted from the significant increase in the Gift Aided voluntary Giving, and the increase in the tax recovered, resulting from the Giving to Grow Campaign. The 5% increase in the Parish Share was partly offset by the reduction in cost of Maintenance & Upkeep of the buildings and grounds thanks to all the work undertaken by members of the Resources Group, particularly work arising from the All Saints’ Quinquennial Inspection.

The PCC unanimously approved the appointment of Mrs Alexia Anderson as the Independent Examiner of the Annual Accounts

Further financial support for the Turbary Church Youth Worker. The Rector reported that, to complete the many successful initiatives undertaken over the past three years (PCC report in the December) the cost in 2004 would be £21 - £22,000. Turbary Church, with its very small congregation, is only able to raise £5 - £6,000. and the EDDC is unable to provide support. The Rector and Churchwardens met to discuss the matter and agreed to recommend to the PCC that we fund the greater part of the cost and that a donation of £15,000 be made from the Dearle Charitable Bequest, with the proviso that Turbary Church are to provide a termly report of progress. After discussion, the PCC unanimously approved that a grant of £15,000 be made.

Mr Warner presented the 2004 Budget proposals and explained the reasons for the more important variations from the 2003 budget. The Parish Share has increased by 3.4% to £35,235 for West Parley, which is an interim increase in preparation for the introduction of the Diocesan Fairer Share allocations in 2005. The PCC unanimously approved the 2004 Budget proposals.

The PCC the considered the Twenty 20 Church of England discussion document prepared by the Rural Dean for the Wimborne Deanery Synod. It addresses the current crisis in the C of E created by the continuing decline in numbers of churchgoers and consequent financial shortfall. It presents various alternatives/suggestions as possible solutions and stresses the need for greater active participation by the laity. The PCC will continue discussion at their 10th March meeting.