November 2008 - Contents There is no love without sacrifice 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 Christmas Mini-Market, Saturday lst November, 10.30 am to noon Advent Service, Sunday, 30th November at 6.30 pm Shell (for children aged 7+) WaterAid Harvest Appeal Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages Christopher William Hector and Kathryn Pearson Thomas Stewart Chambers and Clare Elizabeth Harding Funerals and Burial of Ashes Doris Elizabeth (Liz) Fitchett Timothy Henry (Tim) Archer Douglas John (Doug) Rogers The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Services of Remembrance, Sunday 9th November Services of Commemoration, Sunday 2nd November Church Water Rates St Wystan's News Repton Heritage Appeal Repton M.U. Parish Walks St Mary's News Newton Solney Church: Heating and Arrangements for Services Christmas Mini-Market, Saturday 1st November Repton Sale of Work and Fun Day Beetle Drive, Saturday 1st November Children's Nearly New Sale, Saturday 8th November Coffee Morning, Wednesday 12th November Repton Razzle, Th 13th, Fri 14th and Sat 15th November Casino, Canapés and Cabaret Night, Friday 14 November Heritage Appeal Arts Festival, Friday 14th - Sunday 16th November The Derwent Singers, Director, Saturday 15th November Saturday Brunch, 15th November Christmas Charity Market, Saturday 15th November Christmas Fayre, Saturday 22nd November Repton School Concert, Wednesday 26th November Morning Coffee, Friday 28th November Repton Primary School Christmas Fayre, Friday 28th November Repton Quiz Night, Saturday 29th November Mozart's 'Requiem', Sunday 30th November Thankyou Sue Sharratt South Derbyshire St Giles Hospice Neighbourhood Watch Postal Scam Advice on Locks Uninvited Callers Repton Village and History Photography Exhibition, 14th - 16th November Repton Quiz Night, Saturday 29th November Goalkeeper required for Repton Casuals Under 9s Repton W.I. The Care Group closes as times change Repton Village Society Repton School Public Lecture, Friday 28th November Repton Village History Group Repton Community Speedwatch, July-September 2008 Repton Parish Council Jottings Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School Newton Solney Summer Quiz Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Gardening Notes Dominic Farrell in South Africa

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There is no love without sacrifice

In the 1972 film, 'The Poseidon Adventure', two Christian ministers argued about the death of Jesus on the cross. The younger said that all talk of sacrifice was outdated; we should think of the cross as an example of love. The older minster replied that without sacrifice there can be no love and no salvation.

When their ship is hit by a rogue wave and capsizes, the older man is drowned. The younger attempts to lead a group of survivors to safety, but finally has to sacrifice his own life to save them. The old man was right: there is no love without sacrifice.

November is the time of the year when we wear a red poppy in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for us in war. It is a time of remembrance, and in particular, remembrance of the many thousands who died during the two Great World Wars. It is a time when royalty, politicians, generals, old soldiers and many, many others gather round the Cenotaph to remember the love and patriotism of all who gave their lives in military conflicts.

Not far from the Cenotaph there is another war memorial, a statue erected in memory of a nurse in the First World War. Edith Cavell was a young English nurse, working in Belgium when German troops invaded the country in 1915. Although she could have escaped, her sense of Christian duty gave her the will to stay at her post with other English nurses. Eventually some wounded British soldiers came for treatment to the hospital which Edith had founded, and after they had recuperated, she helped them to escape by a secret route through Holland, an action for which she was arrested, tried and shot by firing squad.

The day before her death, when she received Holy Communion in her cell from an English padre, she said: "It is not enough just to be patriotic. I must have no bitterness towards anyone".

By laying down her life for her friends she testified to the fact that there is no love without sacrifice. On Remembrance Sunday we must remember all those who sacrificed their lives in times of war, both those who willingly laid down their lives for their friends, and those who thought it was all a waste, but obediently did their duty. By remembering them, we remind ourselves to live lives that are worthy of their sacrifice. We remind ourselves to work for peace, so that more lives don't need to be sacrificed.

So, remembering that there is no love without sacrifice, let us honour those who gave their lives for the safety of others, and wear our poppies with pride.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

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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Christmas Mini-Market, Saturday lst November, 10.30 am to noon

Get ready for Christmas even earlier this year, with the range of Webb Ivory Christmas cards and wrapping paper to choose from, all at low prices, the Raffle, with a Christmas hamper and a Christmas cake to be won, the Christmas game for the children, a Christmas Surprise stall, as well as the all-year round home-made marmalade and cakes! And delicious mince pies to have with your coffee - can you resist it?

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Advent Service, Sunday, 30th November at 6.30 pm

The South Derby Group of United Reformed Churches heralds Advent with a joint service of Advent carols, and this year it is our turn to host it. Advent is also the beginning of our Year of the Bible in the United Reformed Church, and this will be recognised in the service. Everyone is welcome - mince pies and coffee after the service will add to the festive feeling!

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Shell (age 7 -11)

Our children's group meets on Mondays from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. New members are welcome.

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WaterAid Harvest Appeal

Thanks to everyone who supported our Appeal. The church had a well in the porch, and a beautiful water feature at the front, with blue and white flowers cascading into a blue sheet of water, and our Shell group made felt water-drops, with 'WaterAid' in sequins on one side, to hold our donations. We are expecting donations from the other churches in our group to add to the £325 we collected in our church.

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Marriages

Christopher William Hector and Kathryn Pearson were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 27th September.

Thomas Stewart Chambers and Clare Elizabeth Harding were married in Repton School Chapel on Sunday 19th October. We offer them congratulations and best wishes for their future lives together.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Doris Elizabeth (Liz) Fitchett of 14 Hill View, Repton, died on Sunday 14th September aged 60. A service at Bretby Crematorium on 25th September was followed by cremation.

Timothy Henry (Tim) Archer of The Spinney, Brizlincote Lane, Bretby, died on Tuesday 16th September aged 80. A service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 25th September was followed by burial at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

Douglas John (Doug) Rogers of 9 Burton Road, Repton, died on Friday 19th September aged 84. A service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 29th September was followed by burial at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

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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 died on or after 1st November 2000 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.   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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Repton Benefice

Services of Remembrance, Sunday 9th November

Arrangements at Repton

The Remembrance Day service is jointly arranged by the Royal British Legion, the United Reformed Church and St Wystan's Church. The Parade, including the scout and guide movements, will form up outside the Royal British Legion Club at 10.30 am and process to St Wystan's Church at 10.40.

As last year, the service will take place inside the church, not at the War Memorial. Please come straight into the church; the service will start at 10.45, so that the Act of Remembrance can take place at 11. During the service, wreaths will be laid at the War Memorial on behalf of the Royal British Legion, Repton Parish Council and Repton Primary School. After the service, the parade will process back to the Legion Club.

. . . at Newton Solney

The Act of Remembrance at St Mary's Church begins at 10.45 am. A wreath will be placed at the Village Memorial in the church baptistry.

. . . at Foremark

The Roll of Honour will be read during evening prayer, which starts at 4 pm.

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Services of Commemoration

St Mary's and St Wystan's Churches, Sunday 2nd November at 4 pm

On All Souls' Day, at services in Newton Solney and Repton we recall family members, loved ones, members of the community and friends, particularly those who have died recently. There will be an opportunity to remember them by name and an invitation to light a candle in their memory. The service is relatively short and poignant, with well-known hymns and prayers.

St Wystan's and the URC commemorate together

In Repton, the URC and St Wystan's will join together at St Wystan's Church. It is a new venture for us, but as All Souls' Day falls this year on a Sunday, it seems an appropriate year to start. The service is open to everyone. Do come.

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Church Water Rates

Water companies are proposing a significant change to the way in which churches are assessed for water rates, charging them as businesses according to the area that collects rainwater and discharges into the sewer network. Although St Wystan's, which has no sewer connection, is not currently affected, most churches are. For many it will raise water bills by hundreds of pounds, some by thousands. The worst affected are likely to be city centre churches that can often least afford it.

At http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/ChurchWaterBills, an online petition asks the Prime Minister to instruct water companies to charge churches as charities rather than businesses. Please sign up and put your weight behind this.

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St Wystan's News

Repton Heritage Appeal

The Organ 10th Anniversary Concert in St Wystan's Church was a lovely evening. Many thanks to Peter Williams, the organist, to Terry Bennett, who organised and conducted, and to the Wystan Singers.

More than 130 (mainly) ladies, thoroughly enjoyed the 'Fashion, Colour and Style' evening held in the Pavilion at Branston Golf and Country Club. Thank you to Roger Kerry for offering the venue and champagne; to Sue Hyde for organising and for hosting the evening; to Brigden's for supplying the clothes and a very generous raffle prize; and to the models, who did an excellent job. The quiz was won by Joan Thorpe of Barton-under-Needwood.

Between them, the two events raised over £2100 for the appeal.

Bridge Day, Thursday 18th December in Field House. £20 each including lunch.

For more information or to book places (in pairs), contact Carol Lloyd, 702410.

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Repton M.U.

Andy and Margaret Austen came to the October Meeting smartly dressed in the Service Team uniforms they had worn at the 2007 World Scout Jamboree. Both had worked in the English Tea House, which served thousands of meals to scouts from all over the world. Andy's presentation made clear the immense scale of the event, the variety of activities on offer and the planning which had made it all possible. It was reassuring to know that so many young people are still keen to develop worth-while interests and so many adults are prepared to give their time to help them.

Next meeting: Wednesday 19th November at 2.15 pm in the Fisher Close Room: Mrs. Julia Juneau: 'The Work of a Health Visitor'. Repton M.U. always welcomes visitors who are interested in particular talks. Just come along.

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Parish Walks

In recent years Roger Juneau has organised annual parish walks with a stop for a pub lunch. Now that he has stepped back, we are looking for someone to take his place. If any of our readers would like to take on the responsibility, please speak to Peter Paine or one of the churchwardens.

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St Mary's News

Newton Solney Church: Heating and Arrangements for Services

The replacement of St Mary's heating system is at last in sight, with the engineers hoping to start work in time for us to enjoy a warm church over Christmas.

Meanwhile, both services on 2nd November will be held as usual in the church, as will a short Remembrance Day Service at 10.45 am on 9th November; people attending these services are advised to wrap up warmly. The other November services, on 9th, 16th & 23rd, will be held in Newton Solney Village Hall. (See also page 21.) Where we shall be in early December will depend on how quickly the new heating system can be installed. We will let you know.

Contributions towards the cost of the heating, made payable to the Newton Solney PCC, would be warmly welcomed. If you pay tax, please use Gift Aid.

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Christmas Mini-Market Saturday 1st November, 10.30 am - noon at the URC Coffee and mincepies Webb Ivory Christmas cards and wrapping paper, a Christmas Surprise stall, the children's Christmas game, home-made marmalade and cakes Win a Christmas cake and a Christmas hamper! All proceeds to the United Reformed Church Everyone is welcome - bring your friends!

Repton Village and School Sale of Work and Fun Day Saturday 1st November from 2.15 pm in the grounds and halls of Repton School A large number of Stalls including Cakes, Gifts and Crafts, Bottles, Cards, Toys, Jewellery, Books and Tombola. Fun items for Children of all Ages Gladiators, Bungee Run, Bouncy Castles, Putting, Face Painting, Hair Spray, Play Station, Coconut Shy, Lucky Dip, Apple Bobbing and Ducking Stall. Refreshments Teas, Cakes, Pancakes, Cookies, Hot Dogs, Fajitas, BBQ and Soft Drinks. A Large Number of Excellent Prizes to be won

At the end of half-term, an evening of fun for all the family Beetle Drive Race your team to throw the right numbers & draw a complete beetle Prizes to be won, and a raffle Food included, soft drinks for sale or bring your own drinks and glasses Saturday 1st November, 6.30 - 8.30 pm Repton Village Hall £12 for a group of 4, individual tickets £3.50 Info. & tickets from Ruth Attwood (702804), Mike and Mary Knowles (702217), Sue Parker (702550). All proceeds to the Repton Church Heritage Appeal.

Children's Nearly New Sale Saturday 8th November, 10 am -12 noon at Repton Village Hall Children's Clothes, Books, Toys, Nursery Equipment and Maternity Wear Refreshments on sale Register as a seller by calling Lynda on 07982 781936, or just turn up to buy on the day. Entrance 50p for adults, children free. Repton Primary School P.T.A.

Coffee Morning in aid of Resurgam Wednesday 12th November, 10 am - noon The Hall, Repton School Phoenix Cards: Christmas and greetings cards, advent calendars, gift wrap, accessories & stationery Julia Needham Jewellery: Freshwater pearl and semi-precious stoned jewellery, plus a variety of scarves Home produce for sale (donations very welcome on the day) Raffle.          Entrance £1 to include coffee, tea and biscuits

Repton Razzle Th 13th, Fri 14th and Sat 15th November at 7.30 pm Guy Levesley directs his sixth production of a Tom Stoppard play at Repton School with the dazzling, farcical comedy 'On the Razzle'. You may remember Guy's first, 'The Real Inspector Hound' in the early 1990s, starring Nicholas Burns (currently appearing in the West End in 'Fat Pig') and Tom Chambers (of 'Holby City' and 'Strictly Come Dancing'). At the time, both were boys here in New House. 'On the Razzle' is the tale of two assistants, left in charge of the village shop as the owner wines and dines his intended in the big city. Whilst the cat's away, the mice play - heading off to town to experience their own fun and 'get a past before it's too late' - with the most ridiculous consequences! This is Stoppard at his hilarious best in a production that will certainly have surprises up its sleeve. "Hungary? . . .        . . . Starving!" Repton School Drama Department and The Bull's Head are teaming up to offer you an evening 'on the razzle'! Enjoy a special Viennese pre-show supper at The Bull's Head (704422) from 6 pm, before an evening of non-stop laughter in the 400 Hall! Appropriately European refreshments will be on sale during the interval. Tickets (free of charge), ring 01283 559343.

Casino, Canapé and Cabaret Night Ramada Newton Park Hotel, Newton Solney Friday 14 November at 7.30 pm Join us for a fun packed evening with fabulous prizes! Canapés while you play the tables. Fantastic professional dancers, Glenn and Nikki Badham, and 'Harry the Piano', an amazing young pianist and showman! Tickets only £15 from Val Hackett & Mike Carey 10 Cricket Close, Newton Solney DE15 0RZ. Tel. 701727 Cheques payable to 'The Born Free Foundation'

Repton Church Heritage Appeal Arts Festival Friday 14th - Sunday 16th November St Wystan's Church Friday 14th at 7.30 pm Preview Evening with drinks and music £5.00 15th - 16th, 11 am- 4 pm Photographic Exhibition £2.00 Saturday 15th at 7.30 pm Derwent Singers £10.00 Sunday 16th at 7 pm Words and Music, Grave and Gay £7.50, with wine & canapés Passport for the whole weekend £17.50, children under 16 free Tickets: Morag Hill 702799; Carol Lloyd 702410

The Derwent Singers, Director: Richard Roddis incantation Saturday 15th November at 7.30 pm St Wystan's Church An evening of glorious choral music from the sixteenth century, celebrating the golden age of St Wystan's Church Tickets £10 from Jenny Jones, 704054 The Derby-based Derwent Singers, described as "…simply one of the best chamber choirs around", are making a very welcome return visit to Repton. Their stunning programme will include music by Nicholas Ludford, Robert Carver and Josquin. This is one not to miss!

St Mary's Church Newton Solney Saturday Brunch 15th November, 10.30 am - 1 pm in the Village Hall Bring & Buy and Book Stall In Aid of Funds for the Church Heating

Repton Churches Together Christmas Charity Market Saturday 15th November, 2 - 4 pm in Repton Village Hall Gifts, Cards, Refreshments Music by Repton Primary School Tradecraft - Tearfund - Aid to Russia Christian Aid/Cafod - Amnesty International - Rainbows Hospice in aid of Derby Churches Together Soup Kitchen

Friends of Foremarke Christmas Fayre Saturday 22nd November, 10 am - 2 pm Foremarke Hall Preparatory School Sports Hall A wide variety of Christmas stalls selling beautiful Christmas gifts from traditional wooden toys, books, toiletry gift sets, luxury foods, and hand made jewellery to Lulu Guinness handbags. Children, come and visit Mother Christmas and her elves. We will also be serving wonderful home-made refreshments and we have a pic'n'mix stall for all you sweetie lovers.

Repton School Concerts Society Kenneth Page Foundation Concert Josephine Roberts and Amy Littlewood Wednesday 26th November at 7.45 pm in the Robert Beldam Hall These two young violinists are the winner and runner-up in the Kenneth Page Foundation Competition, and this recital is part of their prize. The programme will include: Prokofiev Sonata no. 2, The Devil's Trill Sonata by Tartini, and sonatas by Mozart and Debussy. Tickets £13 and £10 (concessions). For further information or tickets contact: Sue Parker, 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

Morning Coffee Anne and Robin Yates invite you to coffee at 9 Wystan Court Friday 28th November, 10 am to 12 noon CD and DVD Bring & Buy Stall and Raffle Admission £2 including coffee and cookies

Repton Primary School Christmas Fayre Friday 28th November, 6.30 – 8.30 pm Lots of games and activities Jacket potatoes with various fillings, bar, raffle etc. Further details from the School PTA on 07982 781936

Repton Quiz Night Repton Village Hall Saturday 29th November, 7.15 for 7.30 start – prompt! To book a table contact Carol Lloyd, 702410 £12 per table of four Finger food included but bring your own drinks and glasses

Repton School Music Society Mozart's 'Requiem' Sunday 30th November at 7.45 pm in Pears School, Repton School Tickets £5 from the Bursar's Office, 01283 559200, or Morag Hill, 01283 702799

Thankyou

. . . to all who helped to make my coffee morning a great success. We raised £1,081.50 for MacMillan Cancer Relief. A special 'thank you' to Mary, Gwen, Jan, Di, Ros, Lil and Lesley.

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South Derbyshire

St Giles Hospice

Here, at the edge of its very large catchment area, which stretches from Repton to Sutton Coldfield, from Ashby de la Zouch to Walsall, many may be unaware that St Giles in Whittington - near Lichfield - is our local hospice.

For 25 years, St Giles Hospice has been caring for people with cancer and other serious illnesses. It began life in 1983 at the former vicarage of St Giles Church, when the then vicar, Paul Brothwell, became concerned at the way local hospitals cared for terminally ill patients. From a small in-patient unit and two community nurses, it has grown and now offers a wide range of specialist facilities.

The in-patient unit has 18 beds and hopes to increase that number to 27. A day hospice supports up to 15 patients a day. The community team carries out more than 7,000 visits a year to patients in their own homes and a separate nursing team offers a 'hospice at home' service, enabling patients to spend their final days in their own homes; family support and bereavement services continue this care for those who have lost loved ones. Finally, the lymphoedema service treats between 100 and 125 patients a week, with a children's lymphoedema service at Sutton Coldfield linked to Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital in London.

Care is provided free of charge to everyone who needs it, patients and carers. The government provides some funding, but for over two thirds of the £5.5 million annual cost the charity relies on donations and fundraising, and an army of volunteers.

Light up a Life

At Christmas, you are invited to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones by dedicating a light at services - the nearest at St Modwen's Church in Burton on Sunday 14th December - and by making a donation to help continue and develop the work of St Giles Hospice. Everyone remembered will be included in the Book of Remembrance. For more information contact Anne Smith on 01543 434542.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Postal Scam

Many warnings that do the rounds on the internet are simple scaremongering, but this is backed by the Post Office, the police, and trading standards!

Last year, in the run-up to Christmas, many people fell victim to a simple scam. A card through the door claimed to be from a parcel delivery service, unable to deliver, and asking recipients to contact them on a premium rate number. When they followed instructions, they were charged £15 for the call. So this Christmas be on you guard, and if you are unsure, contact Royal Mail Fraud, 02072 396 655, or ICSTIS, www.icstis.org.uk.

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Advice on Locks

Lock security is a constant battle between lock-makers and burglars. Some locks that were previously thought impregnable are now vulnerable. We recommend that you assess your security and fit British Standard mortice deadlocks. It is also worth taking precautions like fitting an alarm, marking valuables with smartwater, and not leaving them on display.

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Callers

Remember:

• Secure your door chain.
• Make absolutely sure a caller is genuine before you let him in.
• Staff from utility companies carry an identification card. Always ask to see it. If in any doubt, contact their company for verification.
• Don't give them any personal or bank details.
• If they have a vehicle, take down the registration number, make and model.

Always look out for your elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

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Repton Village & History

Photography Exhibition

St Wystan's Church Arts Festival , 14th - 16th November

During St Wystan's Art Festival we are mounting an exhibition of photos of St Wystan's Church. If you intend to exhibit, or are not sure and still thinking about it, I would be grateful if you could contact me now, as I need to plan the layout. Although various people have already spoken to me, I hear on the grapevine that there are others who have yet to do so. We hope that with your support this will be a very interesting and enjoyable weekend. Morag Hill, 702799

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Repton Quiz Night, Saturday 29th November

We do hope you will come and join in Repton's annual quiz night; we will be delighted to see you. It costs £12 for a table of four with a prompt start at 7.30. Between the rounds there will be a break for refreshments and stand-up bingo. Do remember to bring your own drink and glasses. It is a fun evening, with everyone battling hard, and usually a very close finish. Proceeds will go towards St Wystan's Church funds. For information and to book a table, please contact Carol Lloyd on 702410.

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Goalkeeper required for Repton Casuals Under 9s

Training on Tuesday nights, matches on Saturday mornings. A very friendly team. Contact Dave 01283 510006 / 07890719782 or Bill 07808777042.

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Repton W.I.

In October Repton W.I. held its annual general meeting. The secretary's report reflected an action-packed year with theatre trips, visits to snowdrop and lavender gardens and meals out. There had been interesting speakers and demonstrations and an opportunity to try out new crafts, as well as a very special 90th birthday meeting. The officers remain unchanged but two retiring committee members were replaced by Hilary Hazelwood and Jill Cownie. Then members enjoyed tea and cake in unusual silence as they struggled with a fiendish textiles quiz.

Open Meeting: Tuesday 11th November, 7.15 pm in the village hall: Jeff Bates, an illustrated talk: 'Colour in the Winter Garden'. All gardening enthusiasts are welcome. If you don't fancy singing 'Jerusalem', come at 7.30pm!

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The Care Group closes as times change

Over the last 20 years the Care Group has achieved a great deal. Founded in 1984 to fund a portable baby scanner for the community midwife, the group has gone on to fund many items from our first ECG machine to commodes and wheelchairs.

Last year I invited people to join the Care Group committee. I am very grateful to those who came forward and contributed to a wide debate on its role. It has become apparent that, at a time of rapid change, the constitution of the group is too narrow. Communication between a practice and its patients is seen as a very high priority in today's NHS, and we need lay input in the development of our services. 40% of practices already have a patient participation group. So the committee has decided to dissolve and spend its remaining funds on improving the care of chronic respiratory, cardiac and diabetes patients.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who founded the Care Group, including Dr. Ken Robinson and David Guest, and to those who sustained it with tireless fundraising activity. The most successful fundraiser of all was Amy Auckland; in the era of the jumble sale she was queen. Throughout the life of the group, the accounts were kept in order by Ted Weston and audited by Sid Morley. The equipment and patient library provided by the Care Group remain in service; if you have occasion to make use of them, spare a thought for the good and kind souls who made it all possible.

So now we look forward to a very exciting period in the life of the practice. A small committee is working to get the patient participation group off the ground, and early in the New Year it will be looking for new members to consider its constitution, give it a name, and start work.

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Repton Village Society

At our September meeting, Philip Heath, the Heritage Officer for South Derbyshire District Council, talked about South Derbyshire Churches. Not only did he cover the architectural details, illustrated with an excellent presentation, but he also described in a most comprehensive manner many of the interesting facts that led to the buildings we see today.

'The River Trent', Thursday 6th November

This will be a very full evening. First, Richard Stone is going to talk about the River Trent, the subject of one of his many books - and articles - on local topics. Afterwards, complimentary cheese and wine will be available. Ashley Franklin, who wrote about Repton in a recent issue of Derbyshire Life, has agreed to judge the entries and present the prizes to the winners of our photographic competition, and to say a few words about the results. We hope members will bring a friend(s) to this evening. There will be no charge for friends or visitors who will be most welcome.

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Repton School Public Lecture, Friday 28th November at 7.30 pm

Following Dr. Martha Holmes in September, Repton School's public lecture series continues this month with Paul Deegan speaking on 'The Ancient Path to Riches'.

Discover the ancient Himalayan kingdom of Zanskar, an ice-covered river in a gorge deeper than the Grand Canyon, and a Buddhist region frozen in time. Paul's story, which originally appeared in the Sunday Times, climaxes with an astounding twist that will amaze everyone in the audience. The lectures are free and you will be very welcome. Entry is by ticket, available from Repton School Lodge.

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Repton Village History Group

'The History and Development of Burton's Brewery Railways'

On Tuesday 18th November, this talk by Philip Stanbridge will be of particular interest to everyone who remembers the many level crossings in Burton and consequent traffic hold-ups. It will also appeal to all railway enthusiasts. The meeting will start promptly at 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall. Visitors are welcome. Members £1.50, visitors £2.50.

Social Get Together, Thursday 4th December

In December our social 'get together' starts at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall. There will be food, a seasonal raffle, a quiz or two - and no charge. Open to members and friends, it will be a very pleasant opportunity to relax, chat and make new friends. Please put it in your diary and remember it is on a Thursday. If you have any questions please contact Glenys Shakespeare on 01283 544085.

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Repton Community Speedwatch, July-September 2008

We know that speed kills: if a pedestrian is hit at 30 mph there is a 20% chance of being killed, at 35 mph a 50% chance. And yet we all see vehicles speeding through Repton.

So, after training by Derbyshire Police, a team of local residents - motivated to do their bit for the community - operated the Community Speedwatch scheme from July to September in the hope that traffic speeds would be reduced. The volunteers undertook 3 or 4 one-hour sessions each week, about 30 sessions overall. During that time about 300 vehicles were recorded at speeds exceeding 35 mph. Of these, 75 were over 40 mph, and 19 over 45 mph. A motorbike was recorded at 51 mph, and a car at 50 mph, the latter overtaking on the speed-ramp by Zytec! So, on average, 10 cars an hour were found to be travelling in excess of 35 mph. This suggests that, had the Speedwatch team been able to operate 12 hours a day for the full three months, they would have recorded 10,000 cases of speeding - 40,000 vehicles speeding through Repton each year! And this estimate is conservative. The Speedwatch team could only cover one road at a time and did not record vehicles travelling below 35 mph. More importantly, the team wore bright fluorescent jackets and displayed large signs to warn of their presence. The effect of these was almost comical; the volunteers all noticed how their presence resulted in speeds dropping by at least 10 mph.

The worst roads are undoubtedly Main Street and Burton Road, with Milton Road not far behind. Fortunately, cars parked on the High Street slow the traffic there, and the bend on the Willington Road has a similar effect. Coming into Repton on the Burton and Milton roads, it might be expected that traffic speeds will be high as vehicles come down the hill. What is surprising is the number speeding uphill on their way out of the village.

The police had expected that many of those speeding would be from Repton, but this turned out not to be the case; only 10% of transgressors were local. This proves what many Repton residents already knew: most of the vehicles speeding through Repton are from elsewhere.

In the very short term, Community Speedwatch had a clear impact. However, the longer term effect is more doubtful. We hope that Speedwatch has made more people think about their speed through the village. We believe that the vast majority of drivers are responsible and want to be law-abiding, and we want to encourage Repton residents to do their bit; if you lead by example, then others will follow, especially those behind you in the traffic queue!

In most cases drivers only need a gentle reminder that they are in a 30 mph area. Speed-ramps, humps and cushions have a role, but the Speedwatch volunteers concluded that Main Street and Burton Road would benefit from intelligent flashing speed signs similar to those seen in Ticknall - the ones that only light up when drivers exceed the limit - and we hope that the evidence we have gathered will encourage Derbyshire County Council to introduce them. In the meantime, we hope that the police will deploy the mobile speed-camera team in Repton, both to encourage responsible driving and to penalise those who recklessly continue to break the law and endanger life.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

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

• Community Speedwatch: Mr. Bilson, Repton School Bursar, reported that the Community Speedwatch programme is now complete. Over the three month period of 3 to 4 sessions a week, approximately 10 cars per hour were over the speed limit but none of the drivers was prosecuted. He reported also that, contrary to police expectations, less than 10% of offenders were local. It is hoped that the County Council can now be persuaded to introduce further measures to reduce speeding in Main Street, Milton Road and Burton Road. Meanwhile the police will continue to carry out occasional speed checks, and motorists caught speeding will be prosecuted and fined.
• Disabled Parking at St Wystan's Church: Derbyshire County Council has agreed to the Parish Council's request for a disabled parking space at St Wystan's Church, together with lining to designate the parking area outside the Arch. The work will be carried out in the very near future.
• Off Street Parking Places Order 2008: To free up police time, the government has asked local authorities throughout the country to take over responsibility for enforcing highway and off-street parking controls from the police and traffic wardens. The transfer is due to take place on the 23rd November. Information on problem parking can be forwarded to South Derbyshire District Council by parish councils or members of the public. There is no proposal to introduce parking charges in any of the car parks. The only Repton car park under the control of SDDC is that in the Burton Road.
• Burnaston House: A planning application to rebuild Burnaston House on land adjoining Repton Park has been refused. The Parish Council, History Group and Village Society all objected to the proposal, mainly on the grounds that it was on a greenfield site outside the village envelope and that the house had no historic attachment to Repton. In considering the application, the planners determined that the building was not of sufficient architectural or historic merit to justify overturning the housing policy, which seeks to protect the countryside from harmful development. Repton Park is considered to be a significant example of an historic landscape park, and rebuilding Burnaston House on the proposed site would be out of character with the pattern of the surrounding rural landscape.

Next Meeting: Monday 10th November at 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall. Surgery and plans available at 7.15 pm.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School

I have just returned from the visit to India, which was amazing! We went to several schools including our link school, Thomas Memorial High School. The welcome we received was both wonderful and very humbling. Staff and pupils are enthusiastic about finding out about our school and making positive and worthwhile links.

Community Collective Worship on 5th November at 9.15 am will focus on the visit and give an opportunity to share some of my experiences with you. Refreshments afterwards, so time for questions! The next Community Worship will be on Wednesday 3rd December.

A Table Top Sale at school on Saturday 8th November, between 10 am and 1 pm, will support 'New Computers for Newton Solney School'. All welcome.

Our Christmas Fair takes place in school on Saturday 6th December between 2 and 4 pm.

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Newton Solney Summer Quiz

Congratulations to Mrs. Kathleen Wass, whose winning entry was drawn at the Harvest Lunch. Thanks to all who took part, and especially to Hairs and Graces for their support. £127 was raised towards church funds.

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Newton Solney W.I.

At a full meeting in October, with new members and friends, Linda Williams reported on the autumn council meeting in Derby, where the main speakers were Jasvinder Sanghela and Gloria Hunniford. Jasvinder, a Sikh, was estranged from her family after writing 'Shame', a book which drew attention to forced marriages in her community. Then, in the afternoon, Gloria spoke about her life and career in radio and television.

Members were reminded of the autumn group meeting hosted by Milton WI, '100 Years of Fashion' - part of Repton WI's 90th birthday celebrations, two forthcoming theatre outings, and the annual lunch at the Brickmaker's Arms on Wednesday 19th November. Terry Martin was presented with the cup for the tallest sunflower (7ft) and a photograph taken with the winning entry.

Our speaker, on 'Colour and Style', was Susan Hyde of Repton, who showed us how to use colours to complement our personality and lifestyle. Members were very interested to fill in a simple quiz to find their style and personality - involving hair, make-up, jewellery and clothes - certainly a topic for discussion!

Next Meeting: Tuesday 11th November at 7.30 pm in the village hall: AGM and members' evening.

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Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

There is to be a further meeting (no date yet) to receive an update from Peter Leigh, Traffic Management Services, Derbyshire County Council, regarding the safety measures to be adopted on the B5008. Representatives from SDDC, the parish council and others involved in the earlier discussions will attend. The full report on the recent recommendations will be available on the village website shortly.

Regarding the recreational field facilities, the parish council is considering the various possibilities, resolving legal issues and examining sources of funding before putting any proposals for the village to consider.

Next meeting: Friday 14th November, 7.45 pm in Newton Solney village hall. Again an open invitation to all to attend.

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Gardening Notes

Sometimes at the end of November we have seen one of the coldest spells of the winter, so it is important to ensure that vulnerable plants are protected.

Finish planting pots and containers with winter bedding plants, and see that they are raised off the ground to cut the risk of freezing and cracking. Remember that when it is not freezing, they may need watering. Dahlias should be cut down when blackened by frost. To be safe they should be dug up and stored in very slightly damp compost in a frost-free place.

Cut back all herbaceous plants except those that provide winter structure or food for the birds. Otherwise they give shelter to overwintering slugs and garden pests. To deter slugs, a shallow layer of dried coffee grounds about an inch from the stems of susceptible plants is possibly a cheaper alternative to copper rings. Biological control is also available, but for the best results you need the right conditions. Slug pellets containing metaldehyde are very poisonous to dogs and birds, as is cocoa shell mulch. Perhaps we shall go back to the nightly prowl with a hatpin or secateurs to reduce the slug population.

Wind-rock loosens shrub roots, allowing water to penetrate and frost damage to occur. Tall roses and shallow rooted shrubs such as buddleja and lavatera are particularly susceptible. Reduce them by about half, leaving the main pruning until spring. Climbing and rambling roses and wisteria also need tidying up now. Some shrubs such as cotinus may have produced a lot of growth and can be pruned back by about a third to form a more compact bush.

Remove old canes of blackberries and hybrid berries to promote new growth, but to avoid early regrowth, leave autumn-fruiting raspberries till February. Prune blackcurrants, if not done earlier, preserving stems produced this summer. Redcurrants and gooseberries can be pruned now, but may be best left till spring.

Plant bare-root deciduous trees, shrubs and roses.

Lilies and tulips are best planted now. The Rembrandt group of tulips have flowers streaked by the 'tulip breaking' virus. They can be beautiful, but may infect other tulips, causing a loss of vigour. The virus can also be fatal to lilies.

Take root cuttings from the thick roots of oriental poppies, verbascums, phlox and eryngiums. The first week of November is the traditional time to sow broad beans and peas for an earlier spring crop. Sow a few spare beans to fill in the gaps caused by bad weather or fungal attack. Mice and pigeons are the main problem with overwintering peas.

Lawns may need a final mow. Moss can be cleared with selective weedkillers or lawnsand, but it will always return unless the underlying causes - shade, poor drainage, or mowing too close - are remedied. Remove fallen leaves and dead vegetation from ponds, and stop feeding fish. Remove and clean fountains and pumps, storing them in a frost-free place.

If greenhouses are empty now, choose a dry day to clean them. First switch off the electricity supply, and open the doors and windows to give good ventilation. As a disinfectant, Jeyes fluid is ideal. Clean the glass to allow more light, and remove all moss and algae. Insulating with bubble wrap will reduce heat loss. For plants under glass, low humidity is important in winter; water early in the morning and ventilate when possible.

Reports of diseased horse chestnuts have hit the press this year. There are three main problems. Browned leaves in early July are probably caused by a fungus. The leaves have reddish blotches with bright yellow borders. Some species of chestnut are resistant. Browning of the leaves in August is caused by a small moth which lays its eggs on the leaves. Neither of these pose a serious threat to the tree, although they may look unsightly; the advice is simply to sweep up the leaves and burn them. However, the third problem is serious. Bleeding canker causes rusty red, brown or black patches on the bark, from which a sticky liquid oozes, and cracks appear in the bark. Trees can recover, but a serious infection will be fatal. Cut out any affected branches, and hope.

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Dominic Farrell in South Africa

Well I'm finally here!

Three days in Johannesburg together with the other volunteers gave us a chance to settle in and realise that we were actually here! Then we separated and went to our different projects. Most flew, but we travelled by bus to Polokwane. It took about six hours instead of the usual four, as the bus broke down before we even reached halfway! At Polokwane, Edmund and I were met by our host and driven to our project in Botlokwa. It is very different from the urbanised Polokwane, and completely different from home! The words dust, dust and more dust spring to mind. Grass is a rare sight here, as are clouds, and the housing is completely different. We are the only white people in the immediate area, and thus a constant source of amusement when we attempt Sepedi, the local dialect, and are constantly stared at by small children.

The family we are staying with are lovely and have completely taken us under their wing. The house is small and all on one floor, as most houses around this area. It is comfortable, and we soon got used to the way of life, although I have to mention the toilet, a long drop housed in a corrugated iron shack in the yard. Running water is not really a feature here, you fetch water from the pump in the yard. The water is clean, but a little salty, and to wash we heat it on the cooker and pour it into the bath. The family do most of the cooking, although Edmund and I take turns to cook at least once a week, usually an English dish to show what we eat back home. The staple food is pap. Although made from maize, it's like a very thick form of mashed potato, almost as if you combined mashed potato with jelly. It is usually eaten with meat and vegetables, beetroot, spinach and butternut squash. If not pap, then it is rice or mashed potato with the same. The supermarket has food such as chicken feet and sheep's heads, although I have not had the pleasure of either of those yet. The strangest meat we have had at the house so far is chicken liver and gizzards, which are surprisingly tasty. However, last weekend we went to a traditional ceremony for the graduation of a traditional healer. There we saw a goat being slaughtered and dismembered, which we then ate. Goat meat has an interesting flavour, particularly when you find bits of goat hair mixed in, and the intestines had a flavour of their own, never mind the texture!

The school is literally just around the corner. It is quite small, particularly compared to an English secondary school, and is not well equipped, but it does have a room full of computers donated by the Dell Foundation. Edmund teaches computer and physical sciences, a subject where teachers are in great demand, whilst I teach computer, along with history and social sciences. I also seem to have become the school's computer technician, helping the teachers and sorting out problems.

There is a more relaxed attitude to schedules and lessons here, with the security guard cum janitor in control of the siren that denotes when lessons start and finish - which seems to vary each day! The principal often laments having to force teachers to attend all their lessons!

The teachers are very friendly, inviting us to go out with them, as are the students who are always happy to see us, and we have played football and things with them, so we are managing to keep a balance between the two quite well so far. The students are fairly well behaved as we are still a novelty, although we have to speak slowly to each other as we have difficulty with the different accents. It is odd teaching people older than me, as there are students up to the age of 23.

We are taken to church on a Sunday, and it's very different from any other church I have attended. We get there on the back of a large pick-up truck, crammed with people bouncing along the dusty roads. The church looks like a normal hall, the service is about two and a half hours of singing, clapping, dancing and zealous preaching. We're being taken to see a prophet at work soon; even in the regular service people become so involved that they begin to cry, so it could be an interesting experience! To them, it is inconceivable that there are people in England who do not believe in God.

I would love to hear from people by email or letter, although I can't guarantee to respond instantly as my internet time is very limited and quite expensive. Finally, I just want to thank you all for your support, it has been an amazing experience already!