March 2008 - Contents Was Rowan right? Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Changes for British Summertime Services for Holy Week 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 Women's World Day of Prayer Service, Friday 7th March Coffee Morning, Saturday 8th March, 10.30 to 11.30 am Shell (for children aged 7+) Lent Course Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Funerals and Burial of Ashes Gladys Lily Leadbeater Catherine Frances Bamford Edna Hill Gertrude Mary Rogers Obituaries Catherine Frances Bamford Edna Hill The Memorial Book St Wystan's News Repton Church Heritage Appeal Floodlighting St Wystan's Church Easter Lilies at St Wystan's Repton M.U. Will you help to support St Wystan's Church? St Mary's News Lent and Easter Services Newton Solney Annual Parochial Church Meeting Race To Malawi, Friday 7th March Children's Nearly New Sale, Saturday 8th March Repton School Lent Charity Cabaret Repton Pre-school Wild West Charity Evening, Saturday 29th March St Wystan's Church Bring and Share Lunch, Sunday 30th March BB Swing Jazz Evening, Saturday 12th April Thankyou Mrs Q. Procter South Derbyshire Social Car Drivers Needed Repton Village and History Coffee Morning, Thursday 13th March Repton Neighbourhood Help Can you find us a garden? Repton W.I. Repton Sale of Work and Fun Day benefits the Village Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society Repton Enabling Fund AGM Repton Pre-school St Wystan's School Link to India Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Gardening Notes

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Was Rowan right?

Dear Friends,

I have set myself a herculean task - to distil Rowan William's talk of over 6000 words into a few hundred, and then to comment on it!

The Archbishop starts by noting that other religious communities have legal systems different from the law of the land; the problems this raises are not peculiar to Islam. Islamic Sharia law evokes deeply negative images in the Western mind. It is not, however, a 'ready-made system' but expresses universal principles of Islam and has to be actualized in every culture.

Then, a long section on social identity is key to his thesis. He argues that our social identities are not made up of one exclusive set of relations. As citizens we are under the law of the land; as Christians or Muslims we also have codes of behaviour and conduct consistent with the commitments of our faith.

He goes on to explore three difficulties when the law of the land is required to protect religious sensitivities: vexatious appeals to religious scruple; that the recognition of 'supplementary jurisdiction' in some areas, especially family law, could have the effect of reinforcing in minority communities some of their most repressive elements, with particularly serious consequences for the role and liberties of women; the possibility of supplementary jurisdictions being a threat to the great advances of the Western legal system.

He identifies the inadequacies of a single legal system in a plural society where people have overlapping identities. The role of law, he claims, is the creation of space in which to affirm a commitment to human dignity as such, independent of membership of any particular tradition.

Having specified the complexities of setting up supplementary jurisdictions, he argues finally that individuals 'retain the liberty to choose the jurisdiction under which they will seek to resolve certain carefully specified matters' such as marital law, financial transactions and conflict resolution. Religious groups would have to be careful not to alienate their people by over-restrictive application of traditional law; and a universal legal system would have to avoid disenfranchising a minority at the cost of social cohesion.

Many of his critics seem not to have read his carefully balanced arguments. The Archbishop was not trying to speak for the Church as a whole but opening up a debate to a legally trained audience; therefore to disagree with him does not undermine his moral authority. I think he has tipped the balance too much on the side of accommodating a religious tradition significantly different from the Jewish / Christian tradition; that is where the debate lies.

As we approach the great festival of Easter we rejoice that Jesus has taken upon himself the consequences of our faults and failings. His victory over death gives us a new freedom from slavery to sin to the freedom of allegiance to Christ.

May I wish you a very happy and joyful Easter.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

British Summertime

. . . when the clocks go forward one hour, begins on Sunday 30th March, the date of the special Benefice Service at Repton. From this date the evening services at Foremark and Newton Solney move for the summer to the later time of 6.30 pm.

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Services for Holy Week

The Benefice is enjoying an Episcopal Holy Week this year with a bishop present on Good Friday at Repton, Easter Day at Newton Solney, and on the final Sunday for a Benefice Service at Repton. But these are not the only special services.

Palm Sunday, 16th March

Holy Week begins with the re-enactment of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, when the crowd greeted him with palm branches and shouts of Hosanna! Our Palm Procession at 9.45 am is a tame affair in comparison. (One year I hope to persuade the churchwardens to borrow a donkey!) This is a service of movement and drama, the Palm Procession being followed by a dramatised reading of the Passion Story from Matthew's gospel. The service ends with Holy Communion.

Monday of Holy Week: Stations of the Cross, 7.30 pm

On Monday 17th we remember Jesus' trial before Pilate, his scourging and walk through the streets of Jerusalem carrying his cross to Calvary. In the 12th century, Franciscans in Jerusalem re-enacted this walk with pilgrims who came to the city for Easter. At key points along the route they stopped, sang and prayed. Pilgrims were so moved by this experience that they brought the practice home, and in many parish churches you can see the pictures of the Stations of the Cross. Here we use a set of fourteen Stations, painted for me by my sister, the Rev'd Mary Lewis, from meditations which I first produced as a curate. However the abstract pictures stand in their own right and speak for themselves. At the service we move around the church, praying at each station.

Wednesday of Holy Week: Compline, 7.30 pm

Compline is the evening service for monastic communities. It is very beautiful and a good way to end the day.

Maundy Thursday: Last Supper, 8 pm

Maundy Thursday is the beginning of the 'Great Three Days' of which the other two are Good Friday and Easter Day. A joyful and solemn service of Holy Communion re-enacts the Last Supper that Jesus had with his friends before he was arrested. The disciples' feet are washed by the president reminding us that leadership in the Church is a role of service, and that those who wish to be followers must first allow Jesus to serve them. Most importantly, Jesus instituted the Holy Communion at this supper when he took the bread and the wine. Having given thanks over them he identified the bread with his body and the wine with his life-blood (the Jews understood the life of an animal to be in its blood). He told his followers to repeat this action 'as a memorial' of him. The Greek word (anamnesis), that we translate as 'memorial', is rich in meaning. Jesus meant that when we do this he will be present to us in a special way. The service ends with a procession to the Gethsemane Garden where we pray in silence, remembering Jesus' prayer vigil and the intense struggle he had as he wrestled with his vocation to undergo such excruciating suffering.

Good Friday: Children's Service, 10 am; Devotion, noon to 3 pm : Devotional Service at Newton Solney, 7.30 pm

For the Three Hour Devotion, his first in the diocese, we are most privileged to have our new Bishop of Repton with us. Bishop Humphrey has said that there will be four hymns during the first two hours, suggesting that people may slip in or out roughly on the half hour. The Three Hour address has traditionally focused on Jesus' final words from the cross.

Easter Day

. . . is the great affirmation of the victory over the powers of darkness and death which Jesus won on the cross. That was what converted Paul on the Damascus road. He met the risen Christ in an unmistakable way, and it changed his life. We begin the festival by lighting the Easter Fire in the porch at St Wystan's at 5.30 am. From it we light the Paschal (Easter) candle, the symbol of Christ's risen life. We renew our baptismal promises and finish with a simple form of Communion.

The main celebration at Repton is at 9.45 am, when we will again light our individual candles from the Easter Candle, renew our baptismal promises and receive Holy Communion.

Newton Solney will be welcoming Bishop Humphrey to preside and preach at their service at 10 am. At Foremark, the Easter service of Holy Communion is at 8.30 am.


These are the days which constitute, create and initiate our Christian faith. Jesus came to establish a new kingdom; the events of these days are what inaugurated it. Jesus wrote no book. He left us a life and he promised us the Spirit to guide and lead us 'into all truth.' These days set out the pattern of the Christian life. As we celebrate these days together and grow into their pattern, so we rediscover every year what it means to be Christian. Whether you are a regular worshipper or an enquirer, I invite you to join with us for one or more of these services during this wonderful week.

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St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

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Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

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Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

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Brasses (contact Pauline Beckett, 500132)

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

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The United Reformed Church

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Women's World Day of Prayer Service, Friday 7th March

Christian women of Guyana have put this year's service together. Guyana is a land of immense diversity and vast landscapes, where jaguar roam the forests, and the world's largest fish swim in its rivers. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries it was colonised by the Dutch and the British, and as the Caribbean gateway to South America, it became a centre of the slave trade. The London Missionary Society worked hard to alleviate the lot of the emancipated slaves, to help them establish their own villages and become independent. The country has a fascinating mix of people from Africa, India, China, Portugal, South America and Europe, and this diversity is reflected in this year's service. Everyone is welcome.

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Coffee Morning, Saturday 8th March, 10.30 to 11.30

Home-made cakes and marmalade, the range of Webb Ivory stationery and cards, the children's game, and a chance to relax over coffee and biscuits: our coffee mornings are now more popular than ever!

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Shell Group (age 7+)

Shell Group meets on Mondays, from 6.30 to 7.30 pm, except on Easter Monday. New members are welcome.

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Lent Course

The course continues on Tuesdays 4th and 11th March from 7.30 to 8.30 pm.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Gladys Lily Leadbeater of Fisher Close, Repton, died on Thursday 3rd January at the Queen's Hospital, Burton on Trent.

Catherine Frances Bamford of 18 Fisher Close, Repton, died on Monday 28th January aged 88. A service at St Wystan's Church on 11th February was followed by burial in the churchyard.

Edna Hill of 26 Monsom Lane, Repton, died on Monday 4th February aged 99. A service at St Wystan's Church on 13th February was followed by cremation at Bretby Crematorium.

Gertrude Mary Rogers of 9 Burton Road, Repton, died on Saturday 9th February aged 90. A service at St Wystan's Church on 18th February was followed by burial at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

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Obituaries

Catherine Frances Bamford,

26th November 1919 - 28th January 2008

With her diminutive size and pronounced spinal curvature, Frances was an instantly recognised and much loved figure in Repton.

She was born, an only child, at Laburnum Terrace in Pinfold Lane. Her mother, Emily, like her parents and grandparents before her, had been in service, and her father, William, worked as a carpenter for Repton School, where he also taught carpentry skills to pupils. When William died in 1947, Geoffrey Fisher, formerly headmaster of Repton but by then Archbishop of Canterbury, wrote describing him as a 'trustworthy worker . . a great craftsman . . and a faithful Christian' - a tribute of which Frances was justifiably very proud.

From the village primary school, Frances was offered a place at Burton High School, but did not take it up, perhaps because of her spine. However, she showed indomitable spirit in mastering her disability, a resolute independence that persisted throughout her life. Even when she was no longer able to care for herself, she stubbornly resisted anyone who tried to order her about, although a twinkle was never far from her eye.

Alongside her mother, she led a life of service to the community. They helped at the vicarage and worked for various Repton School staff. After her father died, Frances and her mother also used their house in Milton Road to lodge staff, and parents too on occasions such as Speech Day.

Frances' quiet Christian belief was very important to her. She was a faithful member of the Mothers' Union, a regular at Evensong until she could no longer get there, and thereafter she appreciated receiving Communion in her home. She had a strong sense of moral values, and showed kindness, understanding and encouragement to any child who needed it. She enjoyed company and had a real interest in other people. For years afterwards, by letter and by telephone, she kept up links with families she had lodged, families she had worked for and their children, boys and girls who had gardened for her or simply visited, and even customers at Brook Farm tea rooms, where she was a regular for lunch. Here, as also at the Luncheon Club, she showed her amazing memory and remarkable knowledge of local history, both of the school and the village.

And so, without travelling far herself, the world came to her. She was a remarkable woman who inspired great affection and loyalty. By modern standards her life might be regarded as rather narrow, but in this community, which she loved so much, she found fulfilment. Repton has lost a real character and one of its greatest fans.

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Edna Hill

20th November 1908 - 4th February 2008

Edna was born in Warrington, one of five children. Leaving school at fourteen, she went to work in the millinery department of a local store and then as a nanny companion for three girls. In 1936 she married Redvers and went to live near Market Drayton, the first of numerous moves in the Midlands, generally as a result of her husband's work. Even in retirement the moving bug was still with her before, aged 92, she finally settled here in Repton in 2001.

With all of these moves Edna became an expert homemaker, just as she was a caring mother, housewife and hostess. She conducted herself with great dignity and always took a pride in her appearance. Her numerous interests included antiques, travel, cricket and ballroom dancing, but her greatest love was her large family, including her six great-grandchildren, and there was nothing she liked better than a family party, where she could catch up with all their news.

Edna had a deep faith. She joined the Mothers Union in 1949 and remained actively involved until she became too ill. In Repton she enjoyed the Luncheon Club too, and was proud of being its oldest member.

In a long life, full of happy memories, she saw great changes, but never lost her appetite for the new. Our thoughts are with all her family, particularly Angela and Fred, and their children and grandchildren.

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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 March 2000 are eligible.   All we need is the full name and the dates of birth and death.

Please contact Rev'd Peter Paine, 703317.

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St Wystan's News

Repton Church Heritage Appeal

The launch will take place on Tuesday 15th April at 12 noon in St Wystan's Church. Details will be published in the April magazine, but do keep the date free.

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Floodlighting St Wystan's Church

Floodlighting was installed in 1977 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Derby Diocese, which happily coincided with the Queen's Silver Jubilee.

At the recent PCC meeting, it was decided that the church floodlighting should only be switched on for two days, Thursday and Sunday, between 7 and 9.30 pm, rather than the current four days for four hours. (Timings will be altered to suit the time of year.) The decision was taken partly on economic, partly on ecological grounds.

However, if you would like to floodlight the spire in memory of someone you love, or perhaps to celebrate a special occasion or anniversary, the PCC would be very happy to do this at a charge of £7.50 per evening. Contact Martin Wimbush on 703180.

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Easter Lilies at St Wystan's

At Easter, St Wystan's Church, which for the previous week - Holy Week - has been stripped of all decoration, will be filled with flowers to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and his promise of everlasting life. And the traditional flower, with its delicacy of form and its snow-white colour, is the Easter Lily.

We invite you to join in and make a donation towards the Easter lilies, whether in memory of a loved one or to give thanks to God for special times over the past twelve months. And then, as a sponsor we hope that you will be able to join us at our Easter services.

For more details, please contact Frances Wimbush, 703180.

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Repton M.U.

In February Repton M.U. mourned the loss of two members, Frances Bamford and Edna Hill. In recent years Frances had not been well enough to attend meetings, but she remained a loyal supporter of M.U. work. Edna had been a member since her move to Repton in 2001 and we had enjoyed seeing her at our monthly meetings. We will miss them both. May they rest in peace.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 19th March at 2.15 pm in the Fisher Close Community Room: Holy Week Service with the Rev'd S.J. Morris. All welcome.

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Will you help to support St Wystan's Church?

Most of us in Repton are conscious and very proud of the village in which we live. A recorded history of over 1350 years has had a profound impact on our environment and on our culture. And St Wystan's Church is at the centre of that, both historically, dating its origins to the early years of the eighth century, and visually, its gracefully slender, 212 foot spire visible from far around. Even for those who do not attend services regularly, it is there for us at Remembrance, Easter and Christmas, and it marks important stages of our lives, at Christenings, weddings and funerals

However, like all good things, it has to be paid for. By and large, the congregation does a splendid job in keeping the church, not merely alive, but vibrant. However, financially we are struggling a bit at the moment, and we would welcome your help.

Our current financial position

In 2007 we had a current account deficit of £1,728. The position will be worse in 2008, for we know that many expenses are going to increase, electricity and gas, insurance, and the parish share. In addition, with the reduction in the standard rate of income tax from April, the amount we receive back from the taxman in respect of Gift Aid donations will fall by 10%.

If we are to meet our commitments in 2008, our income needs to increase significantly.

Where does our money come from?

We are entirely reliant on voluntary giving by parishioners, the congregation, visitors, and legacies. We have no other significant income. In 2007 we received:

• £29,825 from regular gifts by the congregation;
• £7,800 from income tax refunded on Gift Aid donations;
• £2,484 from cash collections in church;
• £10,645 from donations, special events, and boxes in church;
• £1,960 from other sources including fees paid at weddings and funerals;
• £3,522 from legacies;

a total of just over £56,200.

Where does our money go?

In 2007 we spent £57,965 on ordinary running expenses.

• £36,096 was paid as Repton's contribution to clergy salaries, pensions, training, housing, and other central church costs.
• £10,290 was spent on minor repairs, heating, lighting and insurance.
• £6,367 went on expenses such as cleaning, the organist and Sunday School.
• £3,084 to Christian charities, mostly supporting missionary work.
• £2,128 was paid to the vicar and visiting clergy to cover their expenses.

How did we cover the deficit?

There is a small general reserve built up from previous years. This has almost all been spent.

Do we have any other reserves?

There are reserve funds for specific purposes such as major building repairs. These cannot be used to subsidise general running expenses. During 2007 they paid for building repairs, everyday architect's fees, boiler repairs, and work on the churchyard.

What about the planned church development?

The development is financially quite separate from our ordinary accounts.

We will raise money for toilets and other improvements through an appeal. Our Development Fund, accumulated from legacies, has paid for architect's fees and other expenses incurred so far, and it will provide a good start to fundraising.

Can you help us?

We urgently need to increase our regular annual income in order to ensure that we can pay our way and rebuild a modest reserve. We are appealing separately to members of our congregation, but we hope that you will recognise the importance of the church to our village, and want to help. Regular giving is particularly valuable, as it helps us to plan our budget.

How can you give?

• by standing order direct to the church bank account. You can arrange to give monthly, quarterly or annually.
• through an envelope scheme.
• by one-off gifts. We are always grateful for donations, whether for general funds or towards a specific project.
• via the Charities Aid Foundation.
• through payroll giving

What about Gift Aid?

If you sign a very simple declaration, we can recover under Gift Aid the basic income tax that you have already paid on the money you give. From April, that means that for every £1 you give, 25p can be recovered. In addition, higher rate taxpayers can recover from the HMRC the difference between the higher and standard rate tax.

To donate or to discuss any of the matters above, please contact Richard Finch, 01283 701245, or Jan Roberts, 01283 702159.

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St Mary's News

Lent and Easter

Families of all ages are especially welcome at the Mothering Sunday service at 10 am on 2nd March. On Easter Day the Bishop of Repton has accepted our invitation to preside at the 10 am Parish Communion, when again, all are welcome. You can find details of all services for Mothering Sunday, Holy Week and Easter above.

We will be decorating the church for Easter during the morning of Holy Saturday, 22nd March, starting at 9.30am. Contributions of flowers or foliage would be much appreciated, as would help on the morning.

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Newton Solney Annual Parochial Church Meeting

The Annual Meeting will be held in St Mary's Church on Monday 21st April at 7.30 pm. Church officers will report on the past year and elections will be held for churchwardens and the Parochial Church Council. Light refreshments will be available at the end of the meeting for those present, and parishioners are warmly invited to attend.

Nomination slips for candidates for the elections can be found at the back of the church during the weeks before the meeting; if possible, these should be returned to the Secretary by Sunday 14th April. Only those whose names have been on the church electoral roll for at least fifteen days are eligible to stand for election to the PCC, to nominate candidates or to vote. However, anyone resident in the parish has the right to elect the churchwardens. If you wish to be entered on the electoral roll, please ask one of the present churchwardens for an application form and return it before Easter.

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Race To Malawi Friday 7th March at 7.30 pm Evershed Hall, Abbot Beyne School, Mill Hill Lane, Winshill DE15 0BA (Park in the school grounds.) Race night, raffle, games, and a great chance to socialise! No bar; please bring your own drink! Adults £4, children £2, including a complimentary glass of wine, coffee and cake. For tickets or enquiries, please ring Dominic Farrell, 01283 701069 All money raised goes to the charity Project Trust

Repton Primary School PTA Children's Nearly New Sale Saturday 8th March, 10 am - noon Repton Village Hall, Askew Grove, Repton Admission 40p, Children free To register as a seller or for further details, call 07982 781936

Repton School Lent Charity Cabaret 13th - 15th March at 7.30 pm in the 400 Hall A sparkling and stylish evening of comedy, dance, drama and music. Thursday, 13th March Reserved Table Seat with Waiter Service: £10 (Concs. £8) Unreserved Gallery Seat: £5 (No concessions) Friday and Saturday, 14th and 15th March Reserved Table Seats sold out Unreserved Gallery Seat: £7 (a few remain; no concessions) Phone 01283 559343 to discuss your personal requirements or email theatres@repton.org.uk.

Repton Pre-school Wild West Charity Evening Saturday 29th March at Pears School, Repton with a champagne reception, hog roast dinner, bar, disco, auction, money tree and fancy dress - for those who dare. Everyone is welcome! Tickets £25 from Lucy Peers, 01283 704491

St Wystan's Church Bring and Share Lunch Repton Village Hall. Sunday 30th March at 12.30 pm £1. Everyone welcome. Bring your own drink. Ring Jan Gillham, 703340, or Carol Lloyd, 702410, for details and to discuss dishes.

Repton Village Society BB Swing Saturday 12th April, 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall Bring your own food, drink and glasses, and listen to an evening of Gypsy Swing with BB Swing (leader Bill Smith), featuring the remarkable jazz violinist, Ben Holder. All welcome! Tickets £6 from Alan Webster 01283 701838 or Hazel Blackhall 01283 702552

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Thankyou

. . . to all my friends for their messages of sympathy following the death of my sister, Gladys Lily Leadbeater.

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South Derbyshire

Social Car Drivers Needed

The Social Car scheme is a volunteer transport service for people living in the South Derbyshire area who can't access public transport.

The scheme uses volunteer drivers and their vehicles to take people to medical appointments, to see relatives or friends or to go shopping. It provides a lifeline to people who without it might find themselves isolated and lonely. Social car is non profit making, but there is a charge to clients of 40p a mile which is then paid to the driver to cover out of pocket expenses.

If you are interested in becoming a driver please contact Richard House, CVS Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 01283 219761, or Alyson Key, CVS Social Car Organiser, on 01283 551766.

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Repton Village & History

Coffee Morning

Jan and David Roberts are holding a Coffee Morning at 37 High Street on Thursday 13th March from 10.30 am. Admission £1 to include coffee and cake. There will be a raffle and book stall, and you can look round the garden. All proceeds to St Wystan's Church.

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Repton Neighbourhood Help

We are very grateful to all who responded to our appeal to transport members to and from the Luncheon Club. If you would like to join us for lunch on any Friday, we would be delighted to welcome you. The cost is £3 and we gather at 12.15 pm in the Community Centre in Fisher Close. You will be sure of a warm welcome. Just telephone us to chat and make arrangements.

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Can you find us a garden?
Repton Open Gardens, Saturday 21st Sunday 22nd June

The best gardens are always private and personal. For a community to open their garden gates for visitors to enjoy and to raise money combines the best of horticulture, hospitality and charity.      Monty Don

At least twelve gardens will open again this year, including the three Repton Yellow Book gardens, but we are always on the lookout for new blood. Could you help by opening your garden?

Not good enough? That's a common reaction. Almost everyone who opens his garden for the first time needs his arm twisting. But remember: unlike show gardens, our gardens have to earn their keep throughout the year; many things are not at their best in mid-summer. And our visitors know that. They go to the great public gardens to see the dream; they come to us to see real gardens.

Worried about admitting the public? That concern couldn't be further from the truth. People who enjoy gardens are very special. Our gardeners unfailingly comment on the friendliness of the visitors and the pleasure of showing them around.

So please think it over seriously and discuss it with us. And please consider too whether you know anyone else who might like to be involved and whom we should approach.

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Repton W.I.

Members and friends recently enjoyed an outing by mini-coach to Hopton Hall to see the snowdrops. The day was exceptionally warm for February, just right for strolling in the woodland and even for sitting in the walled garden. There was time for a cup of tea at a garden centre on the way back, and a good time was had by all.

The speaker at the February Meeting was Roger Hosking of 'Happy Hens', Etwall. He gave a fascinating talk about his work helping young offenders and youngsters excluded from school through his Farm Project. The farm is open for visits, and children - including children's parties - are particularly welcomed. There is a farm shop which sells free range eggs, vegetables, meat and garden items. More information is available on www.highfieldshappyhens.co.uk

Next Meeting: Tuesday 11th March at 7.15 pm in the Village Hall: Morag Hill: an illustrated talk, 'A River Journey'.

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Repton Sale of Work and Fun Day benefits the Village

Repton Primary School will have new music stands, St Wystan's Church help to buy a new mower for the churchyard, and the Village Hall a boost to its funds, all thanks to Repton Village and School Sale of Work and Fun Day, which took place at the beginning of November.

Overall the event raised nearly £26,000, a large amount on the day, and lots more by Repton School events such as 'Wear What You Dare', House Dinners and Auctions.

The organisations to benefit from the Sale of Work are chosen by a committee of Repton School pupils, staff, and representatives of the village. Many of the charities selected are important to members of the school or village, while others have been traditionally supported.

Repton and Newton Solney groups and organisations which will benefit this year are: St Wystan's Church; Repton Primary School; Repton Village Hall; The Den, Mitre Drive; Repton Neighbourhood Help Scheme; Newton Solney Pre-School; Repton Pre-School; Newton Solney School; Repton Evergreens; Newton Solney Activity Club.

As well as these and other deserving local causes, donations are being made to national and international charities and organisations including Childline, the National Memorial Arboretum, the Cot Death Society and Amnesty International. We all feel very proud to have raised such a grand total. We, and I am sure, the many causes that will benefit, thank everyone involved for their hard work and generosity.

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Repton Village History Group

A very well attended January meeting welcomed Philip Heath, who spoke on 'Silk Gloves and Sanitation'. This explored the development of the local towns of Melbourne and Swadlincote in the 19th century. As usual Philip, gave us an excellent evening's entertainment, supported with interesting slides, which was appreciated by all. 'The History of Bretby Hall', Tuesday 18th March

At our next meeting, Tony Henry will examine the story of Bretby Hall, the estate and the hospital. This should be an interesting evening as so many of us have personal memories of the Hall. Visitors are very welcome. (Repton Village Hall, 7.30 pm)

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Repton Village Society

Nobody slept during Andrew Fielders' description of the various elements that go into producing a firework spectacular such as those staged by his company, Dragonfire Ltd., at Tatton Park, Warwick Castle, Arley Hall, and many more. The effects produced were stunning and the shots of the firing station in action frightening. 'The History, Flora and Fauna of the Falklands', Thursday 6th March

David Mountford has visited the islands several times, and has put together a most comprehensive talk, which will be followed by the Annual General Meeting.

Jazz Concert, Saturday 12th April

BB Swing is a well known local group featuring 18 year old jazz violinist Ben Holder, a remarkable talent. Non-members and friends are all welcome, so come along for an exciting (but not too noisy) evening. For details, see the advert above.

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Repton Enabling Fund AGM

The annual general meeting of Repton Enabling Fund takes place on 5th March at 7.30 pm in The Den. All village organisations are entitled to send a representative.

The fund makes interest free loans to help set up or partially underwrite events. Examples are the Repton Spoon, the Christmas Tree Festival, the Village Party and the fireworks.

For more information, contact Andy Austen on 01283 702448.

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Repton Pre-school

The children have been enjoying noodles, spring rolls, fortune cookies and prawn crackers whilst learning about the Chinese New Year. To support this term's theme of 'living things', we have also had a visit from Zoolab, who bought frogs, toads, guinea pigs and rabbits for the children to touch, and a tarantula spider for them to look at. Later this term we are having a trip to Birmingham Sea Life Centre and a special celebration for Mothers Day. Wild West Charity Evening, Saturday 29th March

The plans for our annual fund-raising night are well underway. The Wild West themed evening will take place at Pears School, Repton, with revellers enjoying a champagne reception, hog roast dinner, bar, disco, auction, money tree and fancy dress - for those who dare. Everyone is welcome, so round up your friends and family, shine your spurs, and secure your tickets by contacting Lucy Peers on 01283 704491. Tickets are £25 per head.

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St Wystan's School Link to India

In the city of Nasik, life for slum children can be very hard indeed. Education is the only escape from crippling poverty, yet poverty means there is no money for decent schooling, a vicious circle. There is a chronic lack of modern educational facilities even for children who are born healthy. Slum schools lack basic amenities and are in a poor state of repair. And if things are hard for the healthy, what hope is there for children born with a handicap.

But now, thanks to a generous donation by Extec - one of whose directors is a parent at St Wystan's School - for some of these most disadvantaged children there is hope in the form of the Hope and Faith School for the deaf. Sue Warner, Head of Nursery at St Wystan's, visited recently to forge links between the two schools and was present at the official opening, seeing for herself the hope that the Hope and Faith School brings after all the hardships that these pupils have endured.

At present there are 60 children in the school, all from the slum areas. Some walk a very long distance to get there, others are rickshawed in. Their ages range from 3 to 17, and to avoid others taking advantage of this free education, they all need confirmation from three experts that they really are deaf.

Pupils receive a proper education in a healthy working environment. No longer do they sit in serried rows on the concrete floor, but have large rooms and tables designed specifically for their needs. As well as the academic work, the school aims to teach health and hygiene. Pupils receive a free health check, a luxury many in the area cannot imagine, and are given the opportunity to bathe and wash their hair, an essential part of the day and one which the children particularly enjoy, especially the girls! The next project is to set up a training 'college' or industrial units, where they can learn a practical skill for the future.

This is an initiative whose benefits are far-reaching, not just for these pupils but for the community at large, and through its link to St Wystan's School, children in Repton are also benefiting, gaining a new perspective on the wider world.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School

On Ash Wednesday we were very pleased to welcome 19 visitors of all ages to join us in school for Collective Worship. We very much hope to see you again, with maybe some newcomers, on 5th March and 2nd April at 9.15 am.

During Lent, pupils are being encouraged to think and act positively in terms of 'giving up' something but also bringing some of their pocket money to support families in the developing world. Older pupils excitedly count the contributions each day, and to date we have enough to buy a tree or play equipment and toys.

Easter Celebration Service, Tuesday 25th March at 2.30 pm

As Easter approaches, we will be gathering plants and flowers ready to assemble an Easter garden in St Mary's Church, prior to our Easter Celebration Service there, led by Rev'd Peter Paine. You are all most welcome.

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Newton Solney W.I.

There was a good attendance in February to hear Richard Matkin tell us about his bees. With pictures, frames with wax and honeycombs, plus his bee-keeper's veil, he gave us an informative and amusing insight into the year of a bee-keeper - including swarming, finding and marking the queen, and finally producing the honey.

Jo Parfitt reported on the W.I. 90th birthday Celebration Service in Derby Cathedral and reminded members of the Roadshow to be held at Ticknall on 28th February. The Mulberry Room lunches continue on Wednesday 27th February, and Hazel Ward invited members and their partners to the Ploughman's Lunches to be held in the Village Hall at 1 pm on the first Tuesday of each month, beginning in March and in aid of church funds.

There is an invitation from Newton Solney School to join in their morning assembly on the first Wednesday of each month at 9.15 am.

The Spring Group Meeting will be held on Thursday 10th April at Findern Village Hall; the competition is to design a card for the 90th W.I. Birthday Celebrations. The next whist drive is on 25th March at 7.30 in the Village Hall.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 11th March at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall: a talk on 'Brain Injury and the work of Headway, Derby'.

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Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

The road surface throughout the village continues to deteriorate. Derbyshire County Council knows that this is a real problem and advises that resurfacing is being considered for the next financial year. Martyn Ford, our local councillor, is pressing hard that this should be done. DCC is also looking at measures to combat speed problems. The recent spate of accidents on the hill indicates how urgent this is; hopefully measures can be implemented in conjunction with resurfacing.

The 'brown bin' scheme will be in Newton Solney by the end of May. SDDC will advise of the details in due course. The Parish Council has been advised that needles and syringes have been found at the far side of the recreation field. The police have been informed; please be aware and vigilant, and report any further problems.

Tools were taken from a vehicle in the village recently; please keep a look-out for any suspicious activity.

The Parish Council received a letter of thanks for its support for the Christmas Tree Festival, and would like to congratulate all those who made it such a successful and vibrant event, bringing together many different organisations and individuals in the parish.

The next meeting is on Friday 14th March at 7.45 pm in the Village Hall.

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Gardening Notes

In March the gardener's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of summer. Or perhaps not so lightly, for March sees the beginning of a busy sowing season, apart from other pressing tasks.

Make the first sowing of those summer bedding plants that are slow to germinate; these include impatiens, petunias, salvias, nicotianas and pelargoniums. They will all germinate better at 21°C, perhaps in a heated propagator. Do not sow more than the frame or greenhouse can hold, remembering that until the end of May they will need protection from frost.

You can start most vegetables - including first carrots, summer cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, leeks, radish and spring onions - in a cold frame or directly outside, but celery does better with a little heat. Parsnips and early peas can start outside; covering the peas with cloches will bring them on quicker and also protect them from pigeons. Sow lettuce in a cold frame or in modules for planting out later. Sowing broad beans in modules in a cold frame is more reliable than sowing directly outside. Parsley, thyme and coriander are amongst the herbs that can be sown in March.

First early potatoes can be planted outside at the end of the month, as can onion sets. Shallots are best started in pots.

Sow tomatoes for planting outside in late May, and hope that the tomato blight that was so severe in the wet weather last year does not recur. You can also sow chillies and peppers for harvesting under glass. They will need a minimum temperature of 12°C, but not above 30°C. Aubergines are normally grown in the greenhouse too, but some success is being reported in growing them outside; if you want to try, start them in a heated propagator in late March, pot on in late May and plant them outside in late June.

Apply a general fertiliser to borders.

To propagate delphiniums, lupins and other herbaceous perennials, take cuttings just below soil level.

Cover strawberry plants with cloches to promote earlier flowering and fruiting, but leave the cloches off during the day to let in pollinating insects.

Prune roses and dogwoods, white willow and white-stemmed bramble grown for the colour of their stems. Prune winter-flowering heathers after flowering; use shears, but do not cut into old wood.

Keep on top of weeding. Weeds begin to grow as soon as the soil starts to warm up, and they can soon take over. Then, when the soil is moist, cover the soil with a good layer of mulch to suppress further weeds. Avoid smothering emerging plants, and leave a gap around trees and shrubs. Wool shoddy, a by-product of the textile industry, was once used as a nitrogenous fertiliser, and a Cumbrian farmer is now producing a mulch of bracken, farm manure and undipped fleeces. I believe wool is available in combination in pellets, which slowly release the nitrogen.

When frost is forecast, protect fruit trees by covering with fleece, and remember to ventilate the greenhouse and frames whenever possible.