1Accounting Policies

Basis of measurement and preparation of accounts
The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities effective April 2008.

Turnover policy
Turnover comprises the invoiced value of goods and services supplied by the company, net of Value Added Tax and trade discounts.

Tangible assets depreciation policy
Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less depreciation. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of the fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases:
Plant & Machinery 15% Reducing Balance
Motor Vehicles 20% Reducing Balance
Fixtures & Fittings 15% Reducing Balance

Other accounting policies
Leasing and Hire Purchase Contracts
Assets obtained under hire purchase contracts and finance leases are capitalised as tangible fixed assets. Assets acquired under finance leases are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives. Assets acquired under hire purchase contracts are depreciated over their useful lives. Finance leases are those where substantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership are assumed by the company. Obligations under such agreements are included in the creditors net of the finance charge allocated to future periods. The finance element of the rental payment is charged to the profit and loss account so as to produce a constant periodic rate of charge on the net obligation outstanding in each period.
Rentals applicable to operating leases where substantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership remain with the lessor are charged to profit and loss account as incurred.

Stocks and Work in Progress
Stocks and work in progress are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks. Cost includes all direct costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable overheads. Work-in-progress is reflected in the accounts on a contract by contract basis by recording turnover and related costs as contract activity progresses.