WHITAKER_AND_LEACH_LIMITE - Accounts


Company registration number 6508830 (England and Wales)
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
R H Leach
J S Wood
Secretary
R H Leach
Company number
6508830
Registered office
Florence House
Chaseway
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD5 8HW
Auditor
Firth Parish
1 Airport West
Lancaster Way
Yeadon
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS19 7ZA
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1
Directors' report
2
Directors' responsibilities statement
3
Independent auditor's report
4 - 6
Statement of comprehensive income
7
Balance sheet
8
Statement of changes in equity
9
Notes to the financial statements
10 - 22
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 1 -

The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 31 March 2023.

Review of the business

The results for the year and the financial position have exceeded initial expectations. We have continued to be awarded the larger projects with our regular clients as well as picking up some new ones.

These larger projects required a significant input by specialist subcontractors which has contributed to the increase in turnover. We have continued to use our back-to-basics hands on approach to help with the process, we have expanded our internal office staff and brought some additional contract managers on board, to help ensure that these are monitored and run correctly.

Principal risks and uncertainties

We have observed a significant change in the current markets. As the reaction to those changes, we have noticed that some of our clients have reduced the volume of projects originally planned which we assume is due to the foreseeable economic climate. We believe that this could be due to the increased interest rates and the ongoing increase in the material and labour costs.

With that in mind we strongly believe that these factors are going to create challenges within our industry with more contractors pursuing the same works. Therefore, we are expecting that the margins on projects are going to be impacted due to the factors mention above.

Following the introduction of the Clean Air Zone in Bradford we have been trying to look at ways to mitigate the additional expense, and whilst we have managed to remove some of the vehicles from the fleet, we are struggling to order new vehicles. However, we are hoping that within the new year we can remove all the non-compliant vehicles from our fleet.

Over the last year we have successfully completed a number of projects with new clients whom we have managed to impress with our high standard of work. This has opened up a number of different tendering opportunities.

To summarise the directors are confident that with the company’s existing positive working relationships with local authorities, architects, and current contracts together with the expansion of the office personnel that we have the sufficient resources available at our disposal to deal with any project or situation that may arise in the future.

On behalf of the board

R H Leach
Director
5 December 2023
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 2 -

The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023.

Principal activities
The principal activity of the company continued to be that of general contractors in the construction industry.
Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 7.

Ordinary dividends were paid amounting to £2,046,050. The directors do not recommend payment of a final dividend.

Directors

The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:

R H Leach
J S Wood
Statement of disclosure to auditor

So far as each person who was a director at the date of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the company’s auditor is unaware. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the company’s auditor is aware of that information.

On behalf of the board
R H Leach
Director
5 December 2023
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 3 -

The directors are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

 

Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the profit or loss of the company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:

 

  •     select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

  •     make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

  •     prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.

 

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
- 4 -
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Whitaker and Leach Limited (the 'company') for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the statement of comprehensive income, the balance sheet, the statement of changes in equity and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

  •     give a true and fair view of the state of the company's affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of its profit for the year then ended;

  •     have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and

  •     have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

 

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

 

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

  • the information given in the strategic report and the directors' report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

  • the strategic report and the directors' report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
- 5 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report.

 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

  •     adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or

  •     the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

  •     certain disclosures of remuneration specified by law are not made; or

  •     we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of directors

As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that material misstatements in the financial statements may not be detected, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with the ISAs (UK). The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

 

Identifying and assessing potential risks related to irregularities
  • We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the Company, and the industry in which it operates. We determined that FRS 102 and the Companies Act 2006 were the most significant laws and regulations applicable. In addition we concluded that there are certain laws and regulations that may have effect on the determination of the amount and disclosures in the financial statements and those laws and regulations to primarily relate to health and safety.

 

  • We understood how the Company is complying with those legal and regulatory frameworks by making inquiries of management and corroborating those enquiries.

 

  • We enquired of management whether there were any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations or whether they had any knowledge of actual or suspected fraud. We corroborated the results of our enquiries to supporting documentation where relevant. From the procedures performed we did not identify any material matters relating to non-compliance with laws and regulation or matters in relation to fraud.

 

  • To assess the potential risks of material misstatement, we obtained an understanding of the Company's operations, including the source of its income, expected financial statements disclosures and business risks that may result in a risk of material misstatement. We also considered the Company's control environment including the adequacy of procedures for authorisation of transactions.

 

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
- 6 -
Audit response to risks identified
  • We assessed the susceptibility of the Company's financial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur. Audit procedures performed by the engagement team included:

    • Evaluating the processes and controls established to address the risks related to irregularities and fraud;

    • Testing journal entries, in particular journal entries relating to management estimates, those related to yearend financial reporting and journals entries deemed to relate to unusual transactions;

    • Challenging assumptions and judgement made by management in its significant accounting estimates; and

    • Identifying and testing related party transactions.

       

  • Audit engagement team communications in respect of potential non-compliance with laws and regulations and fraud included the potential for fraud in revenue recognition.

 

  • We assessed the appropriateness of the collective competence and capabilities of the engagement team, including consideration of the engagement team's knowledge and understanding of the industry in which the client operates in, and its practical experience through training and participation with audit engagements of a similar nature.

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Susan Hudson
Senior Statutory Auditor
For and on behalf of Firth Parish
5 December 2023
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
1 Airport West
Lancaster Way
Yeadon
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS19 7ZA
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 7 -
2023
2022
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
18,976,247
16,782,423
Cost of sales
(16,283,880)
(14,874,188)
Gross profit
2,692,367
1,908,235
Administrative expenses
(1,657,912)
(1,052,014)
Other operating income
18,000
1,713
Operating profit
4
1,052,455
857,934
Interest receivable and similar income
7
9,271
-
0
Profit before taxation
1,061,726
857,934
Tax on profit
8
(200,798)
(174,719)
Profit for the financial year
860,928
683,215

The profit and loss account has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 MARCH 2023
31 March 2023
- 8 -
2023
2022
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
10
2,321
5,101
Tangible assets
11
372,397
1,170,706
374,718
1,175,807
Current assets
Stocks
13
684,729
134,751
Debtors
14
5,172,401
3,783,992
Cash at bank and in hand
1,658,109
2,572,132
7,515,239
6,490,875
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
15
(5,609,122)
(4,222,387)
Net current assets
1,906,117
2,268,488
Total assets less current liabilities
2,280,835
3,444,295
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
16
66,010
44,348
(66,010)
(44,348)
Net assets
2,214,825
3,399,947
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
18
1,000
1,000
Profit and loss reserves
2,213,825
3,398,947
Total equity
2,214,825
3,399,947
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 5 December 2023 and are signed on its behalf by:
R H Leach
Director
Company Registration No. 6508830
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 9 -
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
Balance at 1 April 2021
1,000
2,815,732
2,816,732
Year ended 31 March 2022:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
683,215
683,215
Dividends
9
-
(100,000)
(100,000)
Balance at 31 March 2022
1,000
3,398,947
3,399,947
Year ended 31 March 2023:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
860,928
860,928
Dividends
9
-
(2,046,050)
(2,046,050)
Balance at 31 March 2023
1,000
2,213,825
2,214,825
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 10 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information

Whitaker and Leach Limited is a private company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Florence House, Chaseway, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD5 8HW.

1.1
Accounting convention

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

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

This company is a qualifying entity for the purposes of FRS 102, being a member of a group where the parent of that group prepares publicly available consolidated financial statements, including this company, which are intended to give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the group. The company has therefore taken advantage of exemptions from the following disclosure requirements:

 

  • Section 7 ‘Statement of Cash Flows’: Presentation of a statement of cash flow and related notes and disclosures;

  • Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instrument Issues: Interest income/expense and net gains/losses for financial instruments not measured at fair value; basis of determining fair values; details of collateral, loan defaults or breaches, details of hedges, hedging fair value changes recognised in profit or loss and in other comprehensive income;

  • Section 26 ‘Share based Payment’: Share-based payment expense charged to profit or loss, reconciliation of opening and closing number and weighted average exercise price of share options, how the fair value of options granted was measured, measurement and carrying amount of liabilities for cash-settled share-based payments, explanation of modifications to arrangements;

  • Section 33 ‘Related Party Disclosures’: Compensation for key management personnel.

 

The financial statements of the company are consolidated in the financial statements of Whitaker and Leach Holdings Limited. These consolidated financial statements are available from its registered office.

1.2
Going concern

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

1.3
Turnover

Turnover is recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for goods and services provided in the normal course of business, and is shown net of VAT and other sales related taxes. The fair value of consideration takes into account trade discounts, settlement discounts and volume rebates.

 

When cash inflows are deferred and represent a financing arrangement, the fair value of the consideration is the present value of the future receipts. The difference between the fair value of the consideration and the nominal amount received is recognised as interest income.

1.4
Intangible fixed assets - goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquisition of unincorporated businesses over the fair value of net assets acquired. It is initially recognised as an asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is considered to have a finite useful life and is amortised on a systematic basis over its expected life, which is ten years.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 11 -
1.5
Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

 

Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably; the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights; and the intangible asset is separable from the entity.

Intangible assets comprise of licence fees paid in advance for the use of software. Such assets are defined as having finite useful lives and the costs are amortised on a straight line basis over their estimated useful lives of 5 years. Intangible assets are stated at cost less amortisation and are reviewed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the carrying value may be impaired.

Amortisation 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:

Software
20% straight line
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:

Freehold land and buildings
Buildings - 2% on cost, Land - not depreciated
Plant and machinery
20% reducing balance
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
15% reducing balance
Computer equipment
33 1/3% straight line
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 credited or charged to profit or loss.

1.7
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible 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). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.

 

If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation decrease.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 12 -

Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.

1.8
Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition.

At each reporting date, an assessment is made for impairment. Any excess of the carrying amount of stocks over its estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell is recognised as an impairment loss in profit or loss. Reversals of impairment losses are also recognised in profit or loss.

1.9
Construction contracts

Where the outcome of a construction contract can be estimated reliably, revenue and costs are recognised by reference to the stage of completion of the contract activity at the reporting end date. Variations in contract work, claims and incentive payments are included to the extent that the amount can be measured reliably and its receipt is considered probable.

 

When it is probable that total contract costs will exceed total contract turnover, the expected loss is recognised as an expense immediately.

 

Where the outcome of a construction contract cannot be estimated reliably, contract revenue is recognised to the extent of contract costs incurred where it is probable that they will be recoverable. Contract costs are recognised as expenses in the period in which they are incurred. When costs incurred in securing a contract are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred, they are not included in contract costs if the contract is obtained in a subsequent period.

The “percentage of completion method” is used to determine the appropriate amount to recognise in a given period. The stage of completion is measured by the proportion of contract costs incurred for work performed to date compared to the estimated total contract costs. Costs incurred in the year in connection with future activity on a contract are excluded from contract costs in determining the stage of completion. These costs are presented as stocks, prepayments or other assets depending on their nature, and provided it is probable they will be recovered.

1.10
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and 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 company 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 company's balance sheet when the company 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.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 13 -
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.

Other financial assets

Other financial assets, including investments in equity instruments which are not subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures, are initially measured at fair value, which is normally the transaction price. Such assets are subsequently carried at fair value and the changes in fair value are recognised in profit or loss, except that investments in equity instruments that are not publicly traded and whose fair values cannot be measured reliably are measured at cost less impairment.

Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets, other than those held at fair value through profit and loss, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting end date.

 

Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows have been affected. If an asset is impaired, the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss.

 

If there is a decrease in the impairment loss arising from an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the impairment is reversed. The reversal is such that the current carrying amount does not exceed what the carrying amount would have been, had the impairment not previously been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in profit or loss.

Derecognition of financial assets

Financial assets are derecognised only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or when the company transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity, or if some significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred to another party that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.

Classification of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors, bank loans, loans from fellow group companies and preference shares that are classified as debt, 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 business 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.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
Other financial liabilities

Derivatives, including interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts, are not basic financial instruments. Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at their fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognised in profit or loss in finance costs or finance income as appropriate, unless hedge accounting is applied and the hedge is a cash flow hedge.

 

Debt instruments that do not meet the conditions in FRS 102 paragraph 11.9 are subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. Debt instruments may be designated as being measured at fair value through profit or loss to eliminate or reduce an accounting mismatch or if the instruments are measured and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

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

1.12
Equity instruments

Equity instruments issued by the company are recorded at the proceeds received, net of transaction costs. Dividends payable on equity instruments are recognised as liabilities once they are no longer at the discretion of the company.

1.13
Taxation

The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

Current tax

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the profit and loss account because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The company’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all timing differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the timing difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the tax profit nor the accounting profit.

 

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting end date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered. Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the profit and loss account, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when the company has a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority.

1.14
Employee benefits

The costs of short-term employee benefits are recognised as a liability and an expense, unless those costs are required to be recognised as part of the cost of stock or fixed assets.

 

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 company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
1.15
Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

1.16
Leases

Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease except where another more systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leases asset are consumed.

1.17
Government grants

Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received.

 

A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is recognised as a liability.

2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the company’s accounting policies, the directors 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.

Critical judgements

The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.

Work in progress

Work in progress is valued at the lower cost and net realisable value. Net realisable value includes, where necessary, provisions for anticipated losses. Calculation of these provisions requires judgements to be made.

3
Turnover and other revenue
2023
2022
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Construction contract revenue
18,976,247
16,782,423
2023
2022
£
£
Other significant revenue
Interest income
9,271
-
Grants received
18,000
1,713
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 16 -
4
Operating profit
2023
2022
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
£
£
Government grants
(18,000)
(1,713)
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
6,385
4,675
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
83,518
67,786
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
4,134
2,716
Amortisation of intangible assets
2,780
2,780
Operating lease charges
18,645
21,733
5
Employees

The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the company during the year was:

2023
2022
Number
Number
Office staff
19
13
Direct labour
32
33
Total
51
46

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

2023
2022
£
£
Wages and salaries
2,077,108
1,565,960
Social security costs
210,789
142,930
Pension costs
114,713
113,044
2,402,610
1,821,934
6
Directors' remuneration
2023
2022
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
303,394
110,338
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
80,000
85,000
383,394
195,338

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 2 (2022 - 2).

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
6
Directors' remuneration
(Continued)
- 17 -
Remuneration disclosed above include the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2023
2022
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
152,154
-
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
40,000
-
7
Interest receivable and similar income
2023
2022
£
£
Interest income
Interest on bank deposits
9,271
-
0
2023
2022
Investment income includes the following:
£
£
Interest on financial assets not measured at fair value through profit or loss
9,271
-
0
8
Taxation
2023
2022
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
179,136
163,318
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
21,662
11,401
Total tax charge
200,798
174,719
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
8
Taxation
(Continued)
- 18 -

The actual charge for the year can be reconciled to the expected charge for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:

2023
2022
£
£
Profit before taxation
1,061,726
857,934
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19.00% (2022: 19.00%)
201,728
163,007
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
896
577
Remeasurement of deferred tax for changes in tax rate
5,199
10,644
Fixed asset differences
(7,025)
491
Taxation charge for the year
200,798
174,719
9
Dividends
2023
2022
£
£
Interim paid
2,046,050
100,000
10
Intangible fixed assets
Goodwill
Software
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2022 and 31 March 2023
450,000
13,904
463,904
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 April 2022
450,000
8,803
458,803
Amortisation charged for the year
-
0
2,780
2,780
At 31 March 2023
450,000
11,583
461,583
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2023
-
0
2,321
2,321
At 31 March 2022
-
0
5,101
5,101
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 19 -
11
Tangible fixed assets
Freehold land and buildings
Plant and machinery
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
Computer equipment
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2022
1,100,050
114,355
6,775
14,012
525,111
1,760,303
Additions
-
0
5,862
-
0
16,598
214,999
237,459
Disposals
(1,100,050)
-
0
-
0
-
0
(73,007)
(1,173,057)
At 31 March 2023
-
0
120,217
6,775
30,610
667,103
824,705
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2022
154,000
79,307
5,860
13,131
337,299
589,597
Depreciation charged in the year
-
0
7,302
138
5,829
70,249
83,518
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(154,000)
-
0
-
0
-
0
(66,807)
(220,807)
At 31 March 2023
-
0
86,609
5,998
18,960
340,741
452,308
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2023
-
0
33,608
777
11,650
326,362
372,397
At 31 March 2022
946,050
35,048
915
881
187,812
1,170,706
12
Financial instruments
2023
2022
£
£
Carrying amount of financial assets
Debt instruments measured at amortised cost
5,108,789
3,731,594
Carrying amount of financial liabilities
Measured at amortised cost
4,432,859
3,025,737
13
Stocks
2023
2022
£
£
Raw materials and consumables
5,500
5,500
Work in progress
679,229
129,251
684,729
134,751
WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 20 -
14
Debtors
2023
2022
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
4,948,098
3,731,509
Other debtors
160,691
85
Prepayments and accrued income
63,612
52,398
5,172,401
3,783,992
15
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023
2022
£
£
Payments received on account
548,533
948,192
Trade creditors
2,723,618
1,879,682
Amounts owed to group undertakings
1,000,000
-
0
Corporation tax
179,136
163,307
Other taxation and social security
997,127
1,033,343
Other creditors
70,571
108,770
Accruals and deferred income
90,137
89,093
5,609,122
4,222,387
16
Deferred taxation

The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the company and movements thereon:

Liabilities
Liabilities
2023
2022
Balances:
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
66,010
44,517
Short term timing differences
-
(169)
66,010
44,348
2023
Movements in the year:
£
Liability at 1 April 2022
44,348
Charge to profit or loss
21,662
Liability at 31 March 2023
66,010

£21,500 of the deferred tax liability set out above is expected to reverse within 12 months and relates to accelerated capital allowances that are expected to mature within the same period.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 21 -
17
Retirement benefit schemes
2023
2022
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
114,713
113,044

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

18
Share capital
2023
2022
2023
2022
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of £1 each
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
19
Operating lease commitments
Lessee

At the reporting end date the company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

2023
2022
£
£
Within one year
9,826
18,934
Between two and five years
-
0
9,826
9,826
28,760
20
Events after the reporting date

A dividend of £201,250 was paid on 10 April 2023.

21
Related party transactions

The following amounts were outstanding at the reporting end date:

2023
2022
Amounts due to related parties
£
£
Key management personnel
54,284
93,998
22
Directors' transactions

Dividends totalling £100,000 (2022 - £100,000) were paid in the year in respect of shares held by the company's directors.

WHITAKER AND LEACH LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
22
Directors' transactions
(Continued)
- 22 -

Interest free loans have been granted by the company to its directors as follows:

Description
% Rate
Opening balance
Amounts advanced
Closing balance
£
£
£
Loan
-
-
160,356
160,356
-
160,356
160,356
23
Ultimate controlling party

The parent company of Whitaker and Leach Limited is Whitaker and Leach Holdings Limited, a company incorporated in England and Wales. Its registered office is Florence House, Chaseway, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD5 8HW.

The ultimate controlling party is R H Leach, director, by virtue of his shareholding in the parent company, Whitaker and Leach Holdings Limited.

Whitaker and Leach Limited is consolidated into the financial statements of Whitaker and Leach Holdings Limited and these financial statements may be obtained from Companies House, Crown Way, Cardiff, CF14 3UZ.

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