Glastonbury Town Council is pleased to publish its Annual Governance and Accountability Return and Internal Audit Report for the 2025/26 financial year, both of which have confirmed that the Council continues to operate with robust financial controls, sound governance arrangements, and a strong commitment to transparency.
The independent audit, carried out by Parish & Town Auditing Services, reviewed the Council’s financial management, internal controls, risk management procedures, budgeting processes, income collection, payroll arrangements, asset management, bank reconciliations, transparency requirements, data protection measures and legal compliance.
The auditor concluded that Glastonbury Town Council met all applicable control objectives assessed during the audit process, with no significant issues identified. The Annual Internal Audit Report records positive assurances across all areas reviewed, confirming that appropriate accounting records were maintained, expenditure was properly authorised, risks were effectively managed and financial reporting procedures were operating as expected throughout the year.
The report highlights a number of strong practices already in place, including:
- Monthly budget monitoring and financial reporting to Full Council.
- Regular bank reconciliations and financial oversight.
- Publication of financial information and transparency documents on the Council website.
- Effective management of assets valued at more than £4.25 million.
- Appropriate insurance cover and risk management procedures.
- Strong digital governance, accessibility and data protection arrangements.
- Robust processes for managing income, expenditure and payroll.
The audit also recognised the Council’s commitment to openness, transparency, and strong governance.
Town Clerk Conor Ogilvie-Davidson said:
“The audit provides independent assurance that the Council’s financial systems and governance arrangements are operating effectively. We welcome the findings and remain committed to maintaining high standards whilst continually improving our processes to ensure accountability, transparency and effective stewardship of public funds on behalf of Glastonbury residents.”
The publication of these documents forms part of the Council’s statutory requirements and ongoing commitment to openness and accountability, ensuring residents have access to information about how public money is managed and safeguarded.
