January 2008 - Contents 'A Common Word between Us and You' Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Services at St Wystan's, Repton Services at St Saviour's, Foremark Services at St Mary's, Newton Solney Readers and Intercessors at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Wystan's Brasses at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Saviour's United Reformed Church Services at the United Reformed Church Coffee Morning, Saturday, 12th January Shell Group (age 7 - 11) Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Frankie James Stilwell Marriages David Ride and Yolanda Louise Butler James Graham White and Lucy Elizabeth Plant Funerals and Burial of Ashes Ellen Appleby Caroline Elizabeth Clarke Alexander Gordon MacDonald Keith Lord John Edward Timmis Samuel Thomas Andrew Hall Obituaries Alexander Gordon MacDonald The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Christmas Tree Festival: Thank you! Lent 2008 St Wystan's News A Brace of Bishops Repton Christmas Tree Festival Repton M.U. Churchyard Mowing St Mary's News Newton Solney Christmas Tree Festival Collective Worship, Newton Solney CofE (Aided) Infant School Newton Solney Christmas Quiz Watoto Children's Choir, Thursday 17th January Thankyou The family of Gordon MacDonald South Derbyshire Recycle your Christmas Tree Community Speedwatch Muscling up for a healthy old age, Volunteers wanted Willington Mercia Marina Repton Village and History From Buckingham Palace to Repton, Watoto Children's Choir 2007 Poppy Appeal Remembrance Day 2007 Repton Primary School Jottings, December 2007 Repton Care Group & unwanted Christmas gifts Repton Care Group Library Repton Neighbourhood Help Repton Casuals Football Club Repton Village Society Repton Village History Group Repton W.I. Live & Local, Saturday 1st March at 7.30 pm Low Cost Housing Needs Survey Repton Parish Council Jottings Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney W.I. Gardening Notes Computer Safety Make a New Year Resolution!

---

'A Common Word between Us and You'

May I wish you all a very happy and peaceful New Year.

In October, 138 Muslim scholars, clerics and intellectuals unanimously came together for the first time since the days of the Prophet to declare, in a letter entitled 'A Common Word between Us and You', the common ground between Christianity and Islam. Every major Muslim country or region of the world was represented in this message, which was addressed to the leaders of the world's Churches, and indeed to all Christians everywhere.

The most fundamental common ground between Islam and Christianity, and the best basis for future dialogue and understanding, is the love of God and the love of our neighbour. Part of the letter says of the Pope:

"As the leader of over a billion Catholics and moral example of many others around the globe, yours is arguably the single most influential voice in continuing to move [our] relationship forward in the direction of mutual understanding. We share your desire for frank and sincere dialogue, and recognize its importance in an increasingly interconnected world. Upon this sincere and frank dialogue we hope to continue to build peaceful and friendly relations based upon mutual respect, justice, and what is common in essence in our shared Abrahamic tradition, particularly 'the two greatest commandments' in Mark 12: 29 - 31, that 'the Lord our God is one Lord and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart' . . . and the second commandment . . . 'Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself'."

Rather than engage in polemic, the signatories have adopted the traditional and mainstream Muslim position of respecting Christian scripture and calling Christians to be more faithful to it, not less.

In response to the letter, Dr. Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, said:

"There is much here to study and to build on. The letter's understanding of the unity of God provides an opportunity for Christians and Muslims to explore together their distinctive understandings, and the ways in which these mould and shape our lives. The call to respect, peace and goodwill should now be taken up by Christians and Muslims at all levels and in all countries, and I shall endeavour, in this country and internationally, to do my part in working for the righteousness which this letter proclaims as our common goal."

There can be no more pressing issue this New Year than dialogue between these two faith communities in the hope of bringing about a lasting peace in the Middle East. Such dialogue must be on a basis of what we hold in common and an honest search for truth in love, which is why I find the Muslim letter so hopeful.

With prayers and best wishes,

---

Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

---

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

---

Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

6th: Wedding.  13th: Helen Jowett.  20th: Anne Yates.  27th: Margaret Bromage.

---

Brasses (contact Pauline Beckett, 500132)

6th & 13th: Pauline Beckett.  20th & 27th: Anne Trimmer.

---

Altar Flowers & Cleaning at St Saviour's (contact Ann Redfern, 01332 862350)

6th: Ann Redfern.  13th: Rosemary Nash.

---

The United Reformed Church

---

Coffee Morning, Saturday, 12th January, 10.30 - 11.30

A New Year, and a new season of coffee mornings, with the usual delicious home-made cakes and marmalade, the Webb Ivory stall with cards and stationery, and the children's game. Come and have coffee and biscuits with friends.

---

Shell Group (age 7 - 11)

The Shell group recommences on Monday 14th January at 6.30 pm. New members are always welcome.

---

Baptisms

Frankie James Stilwell, son of Ben and Rachel of 1 Orchard Close, Willington, was baptised at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on Sunday 25th November.

---

Marriages

David Ride and Yolanda Louise Butler were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 1st December. James Graham White and Lucy Elizabeth Plant were married at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on Saturday 8th December.

---

Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Ellen Appleby of 437 Uttoxeter Road, Derby, died on Thursday 8th November aged 83. A funeral service at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, on 22nd November was followed by committal in the churchyard.

Caroline Elizabeth Clarke of Cedar Court Nursing Home died on Thursday 15th November aged 89. A funeral service was held at Bretby Crematorium on 23rd November and her cremated remains were interred at St Mary's churchyard in Newton Solney on 28th November.

Alexander Gordon MacDonald of 43 Monsom Lane, Repton, died on Thursday 15th November aged 88. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 30th November was followed by cremation at Bretby Crematorium. Wilfred John Pett of 45 Pinfold Close, Repton, died on Friday 16th November aged 83. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 26th November was followed by committal at Bretby Crematorium.

Keith Lord of Loscoe Farm, Red Lane, Repton, died on Wednesday 28th November aged 67. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 10th December was followed by burial at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

John Edward Timmis (known as Jack) of 40 Springfield Road, Repton, died on Friday 30th November aged 85. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 7th December was followed by cremation.

Samuel Thomas Andrew Hall of 5 Meadow Close, Repton, died on Sunday 2nd December aged 18. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church on 12th December was followed by cremation at Bretby Crematorium.

---

Obituaries

Alexander Gordon MacDonald

Born in 1919 in Lanarkshire into a musical family, Gordon MacDonald started the piano at 9, by 16 he was playing the organ at church, and when he left school, music college was a natural choice.

On the outbreak of war in 1939, he enlisted in the Gordon Highlanders, but later applied for flying duties and transferred to the army air corps. Posted to Burnaston Airport (now the site of Toyota) to train on the Miles Magister and then the Hotspur as a glider pilot, he was billeted in Repton, where he met his future wife, Dorothy Adams, to whom he remained married for 64 years, at a village hall dance. At that time he also became actively involved in the Royal British Legion, the hub of his social life throughout the rest of his life.

Training complete, but before embarking for North Africa and the planned airborne landing in Sicily, he was commissioned into the Lincolnshire Regiment and sent to India, where he survived dysentery, heat stroke and malaria. Although he travelled out as an infantry officer, he found himself back in gliders, this time American Wacos.

After six and a half years, he returned to his wife and family, settling in Repton and embarking on a career with British Rail. He was a very practical and inventive man, and had always been interested in railways and steam trains.

Gordon retained his love of music throughout his life. In the 50s and 60s he played the organ at the United Reformed Church, and in retirement, he qualified as a music teacher, enabling him to teach piano and organ to many young people, which gave him particular pleasure.

Gordon will be fondly remembered, particularly by his old comrades in the Legion. We send our sympathy to his widow, Dorothy, and their family.

---

The Memorial Book

The Memorial Book was donated in memory of Henry Chilton as a place where the names of those who have lived in Repton can be recorded in the church.   All former Repton residents are eligible, as well as those buried or interred in St Wystan's churchyard or Monsom Lane cemetery.   There is no charge but a donation towards church funds is greatly appreciated.   Those who died on or after the 1st January 2000 are eligible.   All we need is the full name and the dates of birth and death.

Please contact Rev'd Peter Paine, 703317.

---

Repton Benefice

Christmas Tree Festival: Thank you!

I would like to thank very warmly all those who arranged our two Christmas Tree Festivals at Repton and Newton Solney, the groups in the villages who decorated their tree, and those who provided stewarding and refreshments in the two churches. This was a magnificent effort and has been much appreciated by those who came. Considerable thought, time and effort has gone into mounting these events, and has included many unseen hands who have produced notices, publicity, cakes etc. at home. So thank you all very much. It has been a really memorable weekend.

---

Lent 2008

Lent will be upon us very quickly this year as Easter is early; Ash Wednesday falls on 6th February. During Lent we plan to offer a course on the Christian Ministry of Prayer for Healing. It is produced by the Acorn Christian Healing Foundation and will help us to explore this important ministry in an unthreatening and open way. It lasts five weeks and will run twice during the week, firstly on a Monday evening starting 11th February, and then on Thursday afternoons starting 14th February. Please note the dates in your diaries today.

The venue is yet to be determined; it seems unlikely that we can use the URC church room as the builders are expected early in the New Year. We may run the course in St Wystan's Church as we did in the autumn of 2006.

---

St Wystan's News

A Brace of Bishops

While you have your diaries handy, you may like to note that Bishop Humphrey will be our preacher at the 'Three Hours' service at St Wystan's on Good Friday, 21st March. Bishop Alastair will also join us at the 9.45 am service on 30th March, which will be a Benefice service.

---

Repton Christmas Tree Festival

A very big 'thank you' to all who supported the festival. We would particularly like to mention Byrkley Garden Centre for sourcing the trees, Repton Enabling Fund, Repton School, who supplied and installed the electrics, and St John's Ambulance. But so many of you were involved in so many different ways: erecting and clearing the displays, decorating the trees, supplying cakes and crafts, stewarding or manning the stalls, and last but not least by visiting.

The co-operation and community spirit were great. It would have been nice if more people from the village had braved the weather to see the spectacular display. However, we did have hundreds of visitors, some from far and wide.

The 50 trees filled the church and looked particularly lovely as it grew darker and lights sparkled. The creativity was amazing, and local organisations had decorated them really cleverly to reflect their own character and focus. It was lovely to see children searching out the decorations they had made, and so many people wrote on the Prayer Tree stars that we had to make more.

The festival raised approximately £1,200, which will be divided between the Children's Society, St John's Ambulance, and St Wystan's Church.

Again, a big 'thank you' to everyone involved.

---

Repton M.U.

Members were pleased with the effect of the M.U. Tree, illustrating different aspects of Mothers' Union work in this country and overseas. Once the work of decorating, stewarding and dismantling was over, we were able to relax and enjoy our December meeting with carols, readings and a chat.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 16th January at 2.15 pm in the Fisher Close Room: Service followed by A.G.M., and an opportunity to look back at 2007 and forward to our plans for 2008.

---

Churchyard Mowing

Very many thanks to all the 'volunteer' mowers who have so nobly looked after the churchyard over the past year. In spite of the weather it has looked really smart and is much appreciated by visitors to Repton, and by all of us who worship at St Wystan's. The mower is away being serviced at the moment so that it will be ready for the next onslaught in the spring. In the meantime, when the mower is available, Chris Carpenter has volunteered to keep the area tidy through the winter months. Thank you again to everyone.

---

St Mary's News

Newton Solney Christmas Tree Festival

Many grateful thanks from the committee to everyone who contributed to the success of this village festival, to the sponsors, the publicity team, the electricians, the decorators, the musicians, those who provided or sold crafts and / or refreshments or acted as stewards, and not least the visitors who came through the church doors and shared in the festive spirit. The winner of the Christmas cake in the prize draw was Richard Enion of Yarrow Close, Burton. Moreover we are delighted to be able to send £1,000 to the Rainbows Hospice for Sick Children in Loughborough.

---

Collective Worship, Newton Solney CofE (Aided) Infant School

In term time, parents and local residents are warmly invited to join us on the first Wednesday of each month for our daily Collective Worship. This will take place in the school hall at 9.15 am for about 20 minutes, and will reflect our normal practice rather than a rehearsed 'performance'.

The first date is Wednesday 9th January, to be followed by 6th February, 5th March and 2nd April. We hope some of you will be able to join us.

---

Newton Solney Christmas Quiz

A typing error has been discovered in Section B of the Christmas Quiz, a deliberate mistake (well, perhaps not!) for which the compiler offers sincere apologies. This error will of course be taken into account when the answers are checked. The winner's name will be announced on the Feast of the Epiphany.

---

Watoto Children's Choir Thursday 17th January at 8.30 pm in Pears School Pears School is part of Repton School. (Go through the Arch and up the steps to the right.) You are all welcome, and admission is free. It should be a wonderful evening.

---

Thankyou

Following our sad loss, the family of Gordon MacDonald would like to thank everyone who sent flowers, cards and donations. They were greatly appreciated.

---

South Derbyshire

Recycle your Christmas Tree

Until the 14th January, South Derbyshire District Council will recycle your Christmas Tree. The nearest point is at the Recreation Ground car park on Twyford Road (the road that goes out towards the power station) in Willington.

---

Community Speedwatch

In March, South Derbyshire Police are hoping to re-launch Community Speedwatch to monitor incidents of speeding in villages in South Derbyshire. It will involve volunteers from groups such as parish councils, residents associations and neighbourhood watch. The overall intention is to educate, to promote road safety, and ultimately to reduce casualties.

Police officers will train volunteers to use hand-held 'speed devices', and further training will include health and safety, minor dispute resolution, and safe operating practices.

A pool of 6 volunteers is needed to take responsibility for the scheme, under the guidance of Swadlincote Police. When 'on duty', a minimum of two volunteers are required in order to operate the scheme safely.

If you are interested, please ring 0845 123 3333 to speak to Sgt. Nigel Rogers at Swadlincote Police Station.

---

Muscling up for a healthy old age, Volunteers wanted

In a healthy person, muscle makes up about half the body weight, but as we age - from 45 or so onwards - it shrinks, leading to decreased strength, increased fatigue, a decline in joint stability and ultimately to falls and broken bones.

Muscle is made of protein, and as we get older, our body's ability to respond to eating protein is greatly diminished. However, research has shown that exercise such as lifting weights can significantly increase protein synthesis, muscle mass and strength.

Now a team from the School of Graduate Entry Medicine and Health at Derby City General Hospital, attached to the University of Nottingham, are looking to recruit male volunteers in two different age groups to take this research further. "We know that it is harder for older people to maintain their muscles, and we know that exercise can build muscle. What is not yet known is how much or how little exercise is needed or how best to feed people to maximise the benefit."

The ultimate aim is to help the elderly avoid falls and fractures by discovering the amount of exercise and the kind of nutrition needed to maintain and rebuild muscles.

Wanted - healthy, non-smoking men between 18 and 30, and 65 and 75!

Volunteers, who will receive an honorarium to cover expenses, should be healthy, non-smoking men, aged between 18 and 30 or 65 and 75. Initially, they will undergo health screening and a body scan to measure muscle composition and strength. On two separate occasions, supervised by a doctor and scientists, they will take part in exercise of varying intensity and duration. During these visits, a tagged amino acid will be infused, and blood samples and muscle biopsies taken under local anaesthesia from thigh muscle, so the researchers can measure the body's ability to make muscle in response to exercise and feeding. The research group, led by Michael Rennie, Professor of Clinical Physiology, has over 20 years experience in this type of metabolic study.

The project is just starting. Results should begin to come through by the middle of 2008, and the project aims to finish by the middle of 2009. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Dr. Vinod Kumar on 01332 724632, or by email: vinod.kumar@nottingham.ac.uk. As we all hope to grow old, this is a project that could greatly benefit us all.

---

Willington Mercia Marina

As you may be aware, planning permission was granted in October for a £7m narrow boat marina to be created in Willington, on the site of the trout fishery off Findern Lane. If you have been past in recent weeks you have perhaps seen that work has already begun.

Completion of the first phase is due in early September. It comprises a 585 berth, soft-edged marina with adjacent car parking, amenity buildings for toilets and showers, covered dry docks, a repair and maintenance building and a fuelling quay. Findern Lane is to be realigned and a bridge constructed, under which the narrow boats can enter the new lake via a cut from the Trent and Mersey canal. This will be a huge inland marina, in fact it will be one of the largest in Europe. It will cover some 90,000 square metres and stretch almost to the A50 Toyota Island sliproad.

Phase two is to begin in about a year's time. This phase will involve a gastro-pub on a promontory overlooking the water and 18 holiday log cabins, plus a café and a picnic area. There is also a boat hire facility.

When the whole project is complete it is expected to generate around 40 jobs directly, with many more in the supply chain. There are high hopes that the development will spark an economic regeneration of the area, as spin-off businesses develop to meet increased leisure demands.

Ecology should benefit too as there will be areas of tall grasses, rushes and sedges along the shore line. Native species of trees, large and small, are also to be planted, and in time they will provide nesting and shelter for birds. Even amphibians should be winners, as the existing trout, which have fed on the frog tadpoles, must be removed; they would not survive in canal water.

Of course, there will be a significant increase in local road traffic, much of it at weekends. To help cope with the increase, traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing are to be installed at the junction of Findern Lane and Etwall Road, just over the existing canal bridge on the road to Toyota. Time to practice your hill starts for when the traffic stops on the slope up to the bridge!

This is a major project that should bring a lot of extra tourism to South Derbyshire, and some of it is sure to be attracted to the historic features of Repton.

---

Repton Village & History

From Buckingham Palace to Repton, Thursday 17th January

In January we are very fortunate to have a visit from the Watoto Children's Choir.

'Watoto Children's Homes' were founded through a church in Kampala to help children orphaned by the Aids crisis in Africa. Children live in homes of 8, with a 'mother', in one of the three Watoto villages. These villages also provide schools and medical centres. At present they care for over 1,500 children, but they have a goal of 10,000!

The choir of 18 children, aged from 7 to 13, see themselves as ambassadors for orphans in Africa and aim to raise awareness of the Aids crisis. They dress in native African costumes, dance and sing. They are highly professional and their concerts are quite magical. The Queen recently invited the choir to sing to her at Buckingham Palace!

The concert is at 8.30 pm in Pears School, part of Repton School. (Go through the Arch and up the steps to the right.) You are all welcome, and admission is free. It should be a wonderful evening.

To learn more about Watoto and the Children's Choir, go to their website.

---

Royal British Legion, Repton and District Branch

2007 Poppy Appeal

So far, last November's Poppy Appeal has raised over £7,000. On behalf of all ex-service personnel and their dependants, we would like to thank everyone who contributed or helped to collect this splendid sum. Much comes from the sale of poppies door-to-door in Repton, Foremark, Milton, Newton Solney and Willington. Other contributions come from whist drives, raffles, the RBL Fruit and Flower Show in September, and from donations for wreaths.

Remembrance Day

The Remembrance Day Parade and Service were very well attended; the excellent support from the Brownies, Guides, Beavers and Cubs was particularly appreciated. During the service, Mick Devine of the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service paid tribute to the firemen who had lost their lives during wartime, and more recently, to those who had perished in the warehouse fire at Atherstone-on-Stour. Wreaths were laid by Tom Hyde, John Shortt and Penny Brown on behalf of the Royal British Legion, Repton Parish Council and Repton Primary School.

---

Repton Primary School Jottings, December 2007

As I write, we are coming to the end of the autumn term, and with Christmas in sight, school days are filled with Christmas parties and Nativity performances by our Key Stage 1 children. The latter have been well attended and fairly free from disaster, apart from a few wild camels rampaging across the stage. Children and families thoroughly enjoyed this traditional occasion.

Key Stage 2 children are in the midst of practising for our annual carol concert, to be held at St Wystan's Church. This is always a very special event with carols, musical accompaniment from some of our talented musicians, and readings.

Then, Repton Luncheon Club will be joining us for a Christmas tea and entertainment from our musicians in the school hall. This was a very successful event last year and I hope it will continue for many years to come.

Early in the month, the whole school migrated from Repton to the Assembly Rooms in Derby to attend the pantomime of 'Jack and the Beanstalk'. Everything went smoothly and children and staff thoroughly enjoyed themselves. A big 'thank you' also to the parents who assisted with supervision during the trip, we couldn't have done it without you.

All at Repton Primary School wish everyone a Happy New Year.

---

Repton Care Group & unwanted Christmas gifts

At the end of January, the Care group is planning to get its 2008 fund-raising off to an early start. We shall be holding two separate events to raffle surplus Christmas gifts, one in the surgery - as we do for Children in Need - and a live event in The Bulls Head. If you feel you could donate items, please drop them off at the surgery in Willington. Full details will be on posters nearer the time.

Repton Care Group Library

On a separate note, a library of approaching 200 books has been ordered for patients' use, we will have it up and running early in 2008.

---

Repton Neighbourhood Help

In December, members had a wonderful Christmas luncheon, cooked as ever by Gwen Fearn. Afterwards we all went down to St Wystan's to admire the myriad Christmas trees and enjoy the delicious tea and cakes. This was made possible by the kindness of the car drivers, so thank you very much, and congratulations to all contributors to the festival.

We meet again on Friday 4th January, when, after the usual luncheon, the afternoon will be devoted to New Year festivities. New members are welcome, either for lunch (£3, transport provided) or for the afternoon 'Drop-in'. We need another regular driver for Friday lunchtimes; if you can help at all, do please contact us on either of the numbers below.

---

Repton Casuals Football Club

Ball skills sessions at Broomhills Lane recommence after the Christmas break at 10 o'clock on Saturday 5th January. Newcomers are welcome from the age of 5. Contact Bob Errington on 701183 for further details.

---

Repton Village Society, Meetings 7.30 pm, Repton Village Hall

Sincere apologies to everyone who brought items to the coffee morning to be valued. It was not until 8.30 that morning that the valuer let us know that he wasn't able to come, and by that time it was too late to find a substitute. However the tombola, refreshments and donations raised £170 towards the cost of rebuilding the Hall.

'Beside the Seaside', Thursday 3rd January

Rod Pearson, who has talked to the Society several times before, will explore the relationship between the railways and seaside resorts before car ownership became universal.

---

Repton Village History Group

A well attended meeting in November heard Arthur Roe give an excellent illustrated talk about the history of Burton Flour Mill, from its early days right up to the present, when the buildings have been converted into homes. He told us about the mill owners and their businesses, including a very substantial wool trade, and about the awful working conditions of the employees, some as young as 5 or 6. Having dealt with the history, he then showed us a series of excellent slides depicting the rebuilding of the premises and the interiors of the high quality apartments.

At the beginning of December we enjoyed an excellent coffee morning organised jointly with Repton Village Society. There were splendid photographic and artistic displays in addition to a tombola and seasonal mince pies. The proceeds of the event have been donated to the Village Hall.

As I write this, we are still looking forward to taking part in the Christmas Tree Festival in St Wystan's Church.

'Silk Gloves and Sanitation', Tuesday 15th January

To start our programme for the New Year, Philip Heath will give an illustrated talk contrasting the local towns of Melbourne and Swadlincote during the 19th century. Philip is an excellent speaker, and it promises be an interesting evening. (7.30 pm in the Village Hall)

---

Repton W.I.

In December, members enjoyed a Tudor Christmas with musician, Elizabeth Munday. Dressed in costume she played a variety of period instruments, most of which we had never heard before. We weren't too keen on the primitive bagpipes but everyone loved singing carols to her little harp. The committee then served seasonal refreshments before we exchanged Christmas gifts.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 8th January at 7.15 pm in the Village Hall: Sugarcraft Demonstration by Sugar Art of Tutbury, with Books and Post-Christmas Stall. The membership fee for 2008 (£27) is payable at this meeting.

---

Live & Local, Saturday 1st March at 7.30 pm

Many of you will remember the concert by the Old Rope String Band in Repton Village Hall back in 2004, a hilarious evening with a packed, appreciative audience. In March, Live & Local is back with 'Last Night's Fun', a hugely popular folk band, described as "Irish music at its very, very best."

According to their press release: "Last Night's Fun have an audience pinned to the wall with breathtaking virtuosity and creative arrangements, and falling off their chairs with a loveable line in patter. The fantastic on-stage musical rapport between guitar, vocals, uilleann pipes, concertina and now bodhran enables them to make this traditional music sound really contemporary."

Look for booking details in next month's Parish Magazine.

---

Low Cost Housing Needs Survey

Low cost housing, alternatively known as 'affordable' housing, is intended for people on low incomes. The houses are usually purpose built by a housing association for rental or shared ownership purchase. Twelve such houses were built at the top of Longlands, off Springfield Road, in 2002.

South Derbyshire District Council has decided to undertake a fresh survey of the possible need for more low cost houses in Repton. It will begin shortly, with forms sent to every household in the village, and will focus on the housing needs of people with a strong local connection either by birth or residence.

In order to achieve a low cost, the houses have to be constructed on land that is not currently designated for building purposes. In practice this means green-field land outside the village envelope. As the houses are intended for people who may not be able to afford to run a car, they should be close to a bus route. In this respect, the location of the existing low cost houses in Longlands is far from ideal, being a long way from bus stops and local amenities. Also, further building in that area would bring the boundary of Repton ever closer to Milton, and people in both villages are keen to maintain the separation. The Village Design Statement endorses this wish.

If it should turn out that the survey reveals a demand for more low cost houses to be built in Repton, finding a sustainable site will not be easy.

---

Repton Parish Council Jottings

A monthly newsletter covering issues from the most recent Parish Council meeting in December.

• The Highways Authority has been asked to undertake a survey of the level of lighting in High Street, following a report that in places it appears to be inadequate.
• The Community Bus Service is under threat again, having been reinstated only a few months ago. This time the problem is that Trent Barton Bus Company is seeking an increase in the level of reimbursement it receives for journeys made under the Gold Card scheme. If it succeeds there is likely to be a shortfall in the County Council's assisted travel budget. Some users of the Community Bus are volunteering to contribute to the cost if that will ensure it continues. The service is an important social benefit to older parishioners, particularly those living in outlying areas.
• Severn Trent Water has been asked to look into reports of foul smells often emitted from sewers at the lower end of Burton Road. The matter has arisen during consideration of a planning application by Repton School for a modest extension at New House.
• The new Red Chilli restaurant at the Red Lion pub is offering a takeaway / delivery service, but it does not have planning permission to do so. The advice from SDDC Planning is that a certain percentage of takeaway trade from an approved restaurant is allowable, but it will make further enquiries.
• Following suggestions that the number of antennae on the mobile phone mast off Broomhills Lane is greater than was originally proposed, the responsible Planning Officer at SDDC has confirmed that the additional equipment qualifies as 'permitted development'.
• The Police have replied to a request for a speed survey to be carried out on Main Street by saying they last did one in early 2006. At that time they wrote to DCC advising that the calming measures were inadequate. As no response was forthcoming they see little point in arranging a fresh survey - there is a huge backlog of sites yet to be monitored. We are seeking an explanation of the Highways Officer's failure to act on advice from the police, not to mention repeated requests from the parish council.

The next meeting of Repton Parish Council will be on 14th January at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall. The agenda is published on the website and notice boards the week before the meeting.

---

Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney Women's Institute.

Our final meeting of 2007 was our Christmas Entertainment. During business beforehand, Jo Parfitt thanked members who had helped at the Christmas Tree Festival at the church - those who had made decorations and dressed the W.I. tree, those who had baked and helped with refreshments over the weekend, and those who had acted as stewards. It was a most successful weekend. Also we read the 'Countdown' Poem in 'Derbyshire Link' by Stapenhill W.I. who joined in our trip to the Leeds Studio. Our shopping trip to Meadowhall was successful for the present buying, but not so good for the travel.

Then the evening continued with an American Supper, with a wide choice of dishes, a bran tub and raffle, plus entertainment by 'Three's Company', singers and a keyboard player, who sang show tunes and a Beatles medley for us to join in. It was all thoroughly enjoyable.

Before Christmas we joined in the Mercia Group Carol Service in Willington Church.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 8th January at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall: Bertel Hutchinson will talk on 'Epitaphs'.

In January we also have a trip to the Mellow Dramatics show 'Meet me in St Louis' on the 15th and a business meeting in Findern on the 21st. On Sunday 20th January, the Women's Institute celebrates its 90th birthday with a service in Derby Cathedral at 3 pm.

New members are always most welcome.

---

Gardening Notes

There is no doubt that we are having to cope with climate change, but if it were more consistent, it would be easier to organise our gardening for the coming year. 2006 saw some of the hottest and driest weather of recent times, and 2007 some of the wettest.

But for now, if weather forecasts are correct, we should prepare for cold weather. Turn off the water supply to outside taps and drain them. Alternatively, insulate the pipes and taps to prevent freezing. Tie in any branches of low-growing conifers in case they are damaged or broken by the weight of snow, and check the protection for tender plants left outside for the winter. Remove dead leaves from ponds. If the pond freezes over, hold a pan of boiling water on the surface to create an air-hole. (Cracking the ice can harm any fish.)

Inspect stored fruit, and remove any that are rotting or damaged.

Remove dead flowers from indoor cyclamen by pulling off the whole flower and stem to prevent rot and mould spreading. Water sparingly any plants grown under glass, and remove dead leaves.

Check tree ties; replace those that are broken, and loosen any that are too tight. Provided it is not frosty, prune apple and pear trees (if not already done). Cordons and espaliers should not be pruned now but in late summer. This is also the time to winter-prune wisteria.

Redefine lawn edges using a sharp half-moon. Hollows can be filled by raising an area of turf and filling the hollow with soil, before replacing and firming the turf.

Dig and manure any empty parts of the vegetable plot. Broad beans, early peas, leeks, onions, summer-flowering cauliflower, lettuce, and Brussels sprouts and sprouting broccoli for autumn use can all be sown later in the month, whether in a bed in a greenhouse or frame, or in modules.

Tidy sheds, oil and sharpen garden tools, and send the lawn-mower for service. Compost stored over-winter loses some of its fertility. Check any chemicals you have in store. The use of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides is now very restricted by law, and largely restricted to natural sources. You must not dispose of chemicals that are now illegal down any drain.

I try to use chemicals as little as possible, but I am tempted when, for instance, a sudden build-up of aphids is overwhelming and beyond the scope of ladybirds and hoverflies to deal with before the aphids have irreversibly damaged the plant and perhaps introduced a viral infection. Biological controls can be used under the right conditions, but are often less effective in the open garden. Physical methods can help. Keeping weeds under control and maintaining a healthy soil will strengthen plants and improve their ability to resist pests and diseases. Crop rotation also helps to prevent the build-up of disease. Root collars around brassicas will deter cabbage root fly, and copper discs around plants should keep slugs off. Fleece or environmental mesh over carrots will keep out carrot fly, and can be used over other vegetables, but may also keep out beneficial insects. Growing carrots and onions together can reduce attacks by both carrot and onion fly, by disguising the scent that attracts them. Marigolds and borage help by diverting pests from plants you want to protect.

Encourage birds with a continuous supply of food and water, and they will help by eating aphids and slugs later in the year - though I sometimes wonder if, being so well fed, they feel the need to search further! Put up bird boxes. Some birds start nesting surprisingly early. Robins often do. They and wrens prefer open-fronted boxes placed fairly low down, whereas tits prefer ordinary boxes placed 6 to 8 feet off the ground, ideally facing north-east to avoid prevailing winds. All boxes should be beyond the reach of cats.

---

Computer Safety

Make a New Year Resolution!

The scale of computer fraud is astonishing. Recently we were told of a giant botnet of 50 million computers, used by criminals to send billions of spam emails, all aiming to part you from your money. Victims have lost an average of £875, and yet the majority of UK home computers are still wide open to criminal attack. Now is the time to make a New Year's resolution to protect yours. Here are eight tips.

• Don't rely on the basic Windows firewall. Install something better, and keep it up-to-date. Try ZoneAlarm; the basic firewall is highly recommended and free. www.zonealarm.com.
• Install anti-virus software and update it every day.
• Check regularly for spyware. Ad-Aware SE is recommended and free. www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware.
• Use Microsoft Windows Update routinely to ensure that the latest security patches are installed and working properly.
• Update other software to the latest version. Secunia Software Inspector will search your computer for programmes that are out of date. It's free. secunia.com/software_inspector.
• Ignore all malicious and phishing emails. If you think you've been phished, visit www.consumer.gov/idtheft immediately.
• Above all, subscribe to the Open University advice service. It will keep you on your toes. It too is free. safecomputing.open.ac.uk.