The Parishes of Repton, Newton Solney and Foremark

The vicar of Repton is also vicar of Newton Solney and Foremark.   Although they make up a single benefice, the parishes are formally independent of each other; each has its own parochial church council and is responsible for its own finances.   The three parishes do however work together on joint activities including frequent services, the Parish Magazine, special events for children, and social activities.

St Mary the Virgin, Newton Solney

St Mary's is some 800 years old.   It is a delightful church with many interesting features.   Among these are the recumbent effigies of members of the de Solney family.   One of these is said to be unique in England, having a 'hood-like camail' shown tied to the shoulders.   There are Norman, Early English, 15th, 17th, and 19th century features.

Thomas Gayfere is buried in the Churchyard.   He and his family were much involved in the restoration of Westminster Abbey in the 18th and 19th centuries.

While many centuries are represented in stone and glass, the church remains a living church at the heart of the village community.   There is a Church of England infant school with a close working relationship.   There are occasional Flower Festivals and the building is used for concerts and other activities.

Directions:   St Mary’s is 1.9 miles from St Wystan's Church – postcode DE15 0SR.   From the Cross at Repton, take the B5008 towards Burton.   In Newton Solney, pass The Unicorn and The Brickmakers Arms.   After the bus stop on the right, turn right into Church Lane; St Mary's is at the very end.

St Saviour's, Foremark

Tucked away up a farm track, St Saviour's is the same age as the Book of Common Prayer, having been consecrated in 1662.   Thought to be of great historical significance, the church has retained box pews, a triple decker pulpit, and a period screen with interesting glass, concealing wall benches around the altar.   It was one of the first churches to be built in England after the Restoration of the Monarchy.  Some believe it may have been the first, after the Protectorate's ban on church-building was lifted.

It was the Estate Church for the Burdett family of nearby Foremarke Hall (now Repton Preparatory School).   Radical politician Sir Francis Burdett was connected with the church.

Directions:   St Saviour's is 2.25 miles from St Wystan's Church – postcode DE65 6EJ.   From The Cross at Repton take the Melbourne road.   As you enter the village of Milton, take the left turn where the main road bends to the right.   After 3/4 mile the track to St Saviour's is on the right; the church is visible across the fields to the right.

Repton Deanery

Repton Deanery was officially disbanded in November 2015.   The majority of parishes have now combined with parts of the former Melbourne Deanery, although Willington and Findern have transferred to Derby City.   Rev'd Graham Rutter of Swadlincote has been appointed Area Dean.   A commissioning service for him, the Deanery Synod and the Deanery Chapter was held on 9th March 2016 at St George's Church, Ticknall.