December 2008 - Contents Is darkness always black? Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Christmas Services 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 Services WaterAid Harvest Appeal January Coffee Morning Shell (age 7 - 11) Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Funerals Beatrice Mildred (Betty) Grenham Michael Henry Bates Obituaries Michael Bates The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Church Water Rates - Online Petition The Light of Christ Partners in World Development St Saviour's News Foremark Organ Appeal St Mary's News Church Heating and Services at St Mary's Newton Solney Saturday Brunch Repton Village Society Coffee Morning Newton Solney Infant School Christmas Fair Christmas Coffee Morning and Lunch Santa & his Sleigh Land in Repton, Friday 12th December URC Christmas Nativity Services Bridge Day, Thursday 18th December St Mary's Saturday Brunch, 17th January Environment Matters South Derbyshire Rainbow Guides 'Stamp & Deliver' Willington Trains: New Timetables from 14th December Neighbourhood Watch Repton Village and History Repton Church Heritage Appeal Arts Festival Repton Neighbourhood Help, Luncheon Club Repton W.I. Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society Repton Parish Council Jottings Repton Park Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Gardening Notes Dominic in Africa

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Is darkness always black?

Sometimes I've wondered whether Christmas would be the same in Australia. How can it be the same without fir trees and log fires? No doubt you will remind me that Christmas isn't about trees and fires but about Jesus, and so it doesn't matter in what climate we celebrate his birth. That is true, but it is not the reason why I have reassessed my appreciation of the winter Christmas.

Christmas is the time when the days very gradually begin to lighten, and in our homes and our churches we make much of the theme of light. We celebrate the coming of Jesus who said of himself: "I am the light of the world." John wrote of him that the light of his life shone in the darkness of the world which has not overcome it.

But what about the darkness? Is darkness always black? Of course, there are all too many instances of terrible black darkness, and there are many people and places in the world today suffering such darkness. We remember the displaced and abused people of the Congo and other war zones. From a BBC documentary we learn that 500,000 women are trafficked in Europe every year. This is a terrible indictment of so-called western civilization. (Have you read 'Two Caravans' by Marina Lewycka yet?) It is well known that Christmas and New Year is a time when suicides, family quarrels, depression and drunkenness reach a peak.

Darkness, however, as every gardener knows, is not only negative. A time of gestation is necessary for growth. The seed is planted in the dark earth, and it is there that it breaks open and grows before coming to the light. The human foetus in the dark womb of its mother grows for nine months before emerging into the light of birth. Darkness and winter have their own positive and creative elements. There is a sense in which darkness and winter are to be cherished as valuable in their own right. After all, God made darkness and light, winter and summer. The Psalmist knew that to God, "even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you." (139:12)

So the darkness that we experience from time to time in our lives, whether through doubt or bereavement or loss of a limb or simply aging, may also have a positive value. The baby of Bethlehem, whose birth we celebrate this month, knew the darkness of an unlit stable As a man he knew the darkness of being utterly forsaken. He is here with us in the darkness where growth, faith, hope and love are taking root in an unseen way.

I wish all our readers a very happy, joyful and blessed Christmas.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

Christmas Services

Advent Carol Service: Sunday 30th November at 6 pm

This year's Advent Carol Service will be half an hour earlier than usual because of the MusSoc production of Handel's Messiah later in the evening. This year we will be welcoming people from around the MMA parishes, and we hope that many of our regulars will come to make our guests welcome. The church starts in darkness and gradually grows lighter as we celebrate the coming of Christ as light to the world. The music will be led by the Wystan Singers, whom we are very pleased to welcome once more.

Gift Service: Sunday 7th December at 9.45 am

The Gift Service is a week earlier this year and combines with the Family Service on the first Sunday of the month. You are invited to bring gifts for the charity, Home-Start, to distribute to disadvantaged children and families in South Derbyshire. If you wrap your gift please attach a note to say what it is, so that it can be given to a boy or girl of the appropriate age. Gifts of money are also welcome.

Carols by Candlelight: Sunday 7th and 21st December

Foremark, 7th at 4 pm; Newton Solney, 21st at 4 pm; Repton, 21st at 6.30 pm

These popular services will take a traditional format of carols and readings in the beauty of our candlelit churches. At Foremark, the service of Carols by Candlelight is a week earlier this year so that we can be joined by Foremarke School. We will also welcome members of the Women's Institute to the service and the seasonal refreshments afterwards, which - by kind permission of Mr. and Mrs. P. Watson - will be held in the hall of Foremarke School. As St Mary's may still not be heated, look out for notices in Newton Solney to confirm whether the service there is in church or in the village hall.

Christingle Services: 4 pm - Sunday 14th December at St Wystan's, 11th January at St Mary's

This is one of the most popular children's services. It was introduced to this country by the Children's Society, and so we make a collection for their work among disadvantaged children through the collecting 'flames' which are provided in the Primary School, Newton Solney Infant School and by St Wystan's and St Mary's Churches. When these are presented at the Christingle service the children receive a Christingle light. The church lights are dimmed and we sing 'Away in a Manger' by the light of our Christingles. This is a short and moving service, both for children and adults, and numbers have increased significantly during the two years that we have held it. As St Mary's is waiting for the installation of the new heating system, the service there will be held early in the New Year.

Crib Service: St Wystan's, Christmas Eve at 4 pm

At the Crib Service the children are invited to bring the different figures to the crib scene as the story unfolds. During December, children from the Primary School introduce them to their homes as a way of welcoming the infant Jesus and preparing for Christmas. As the idea was introduced from Mexico by the Church Army, during the service we have a special collection for them.

Christmas Eve Midnight Communion: St Wystan's and St Mary's at 11.30 pm

This is the first Communion of Christmas. The crib is blessed and popular carols are sung. Look out for notices in Newton Solney to confirm whether the service there is in church or in the village hall.

Christmas Day Services: St Wystan's at 8 and 10.30 am; Foremark at 9.15 am; St Mary's at 10 am

At 10.30 am at St Wystan's, children are invited to dress-up and take part in a life-size tableau as the Christmas story is told with short readings and carols. Newton Solney will welcome the Reverend Adam Watkinson to take the service, which will be either in the church or the village hall. At Foremark the service will be accompanied by carols.

New Year's Eve Watch-night Service: St Wystan's at 11.30 pm

Our service to welcome the New Year will be followed by bell-ringing, fireworks and refreshments.

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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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Junior Church Nativity Services, Sunday 14th December at 11 am and 6.30 pm

The children and young people will present the Christmas musical, 'The Star Over Bethlehem', which tells the shepherds' story in a delightful new way. Come and share the children's enthusiasm!

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Christingle Service, Sunday 21st December at 11 am

A chance for all the congregation to help each other make their own Christingle.

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Candlelight Carols, Sunday 21st December at 6.30 pm

The ever-popular service of readings and carols in the warm glow of the candles.

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Christmas Morning Service at 10.30 am

Everyone can find twenty minutes or so to worship on Christmas morning. Bring along a gift to show to the congregation!

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WaterAid Harvest Appeal

The Harvest Appeal was supported by the U.R.C. in Repton, which raised £325, and by the United Reformed Churches in South Derbyshire which raised a further £350. Repton Primary School raised £320, and the Parish Church raised (please add a figure here - Jan, 702159). . Well done, everyone who supported WaterAid!

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January Coffee Morning

. . . Saturday 10th January.

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Shell (age 7 - 11)

. . . recommences on Monday 12th January at 6.30 pm.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Beatrice Mildred (Betty) Grenham of 39 Monsom Lane, Repton, died on 24th August aged 83 at Branston Nursing Home. A service at Bretby Crematorium on 3rd September was followed by cremation.

Michael Henry Bates of Trent Cottage, Trent Lane, Newton Solney, died on Monday 20th October aged 76. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 28th October was followed by burial at Newton Solney churchyard.

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Obituaries

Michael Bates
29th December 1931 - 20th October 2008

The younger of two sons, Michael was born in Shobnall, where his father was Chief Electrician at Marston's Brewery. On leaving Burton Grammar School he did national service with the North Staffords and then, after a couple of years in the civil service, decided to teach. He trained at the College of St Mark and St John in Chelsea before returning to Burton, where he taught first at Joseph Clarke primary school and then Dovecliffe Grammar School. Here Michael stayed calm while the educational world revolved around him, the school becoming in turn the Technical High School, then Wulfric, then de Ferrers. In 1982, by then Head of Music, he took early retirement to concentrate on choral work, private teaching and singing - and looking after his aged parents.

Michael was a keen golfer and horseman, but throughout his life, his first love was music. He was a talented pianist and organist, but it was as a choral singer and soloist that he excelled. He was always singing somewhere and his knowledge of choral music was huge. From humble beginnings as a small boy in St Aidan's Church choir, Michael rose to sing with and direct numerous choirs, operatic and choral societies. His particular genius lay in his ability to encourage and enthuse others. For him, persuading youngsters to sing was important - often hard work, but it had its rewards. In the late 60s he helped to establish Burton Youth Choir, which toured widely in the United States and Europe, and when the BBC 'Songs of Praise' came to Burton, Michael was chosen to direct the music.

In retirement he founded the Mercian Chorale, which in 1989 won the competition for International Chamber Choir of the Year at the International Eisteddfod in Llangollen and were twice semi-finalists in the Sainsbury's Choir of the Year competition. They performed in Paris, Chartres Cathedral, and twice in St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle. Michael was very proud that one of his pupils and former member of the Mercian Chorale founded the Chorus Amici, which in 2000 was Sainsbury's Choir of the Year.

Despite a romantic side to his character and many female admirers, Michael stayed a bachelor and seemed destined to remain so, until in his late 60s he met Sheila, whose first husband had died tragically in 1994. They married in 2003 in a ceremony at St Wystan's shared with the whole congregation, and Michael joined Sheila in Newton Solney. He had never been happier.

In Michael we shall remember a man who gave great pleasure to so many. He was good-natured, honest and open-hearted. He had numerous acquaintances and more than his share of close friends. We shall miss his company, his vitality and his friendliness. And all who sang under him will remember that moment, when at the end of Elijah perhaps, or the Messiah, as the applause echoed around, his face would light up with a beam of satisfaction.

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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 December 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

Church Water Rates: Please sign online petition by 6th December

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 by 6th December and put your weight behind this.

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The Light of Christ

Advent is one of the most important seasons in the Christian year, as we wait with expectation for the light of Christ to shine amongst us. It is a time of preparation, reflection and joy to each of us in our faith. To bring different insights into this most momentous of seasons, on each day during Advent, short reflections - each by a different author - will be uploaded to the diocesan website. The following, for the 30th November, is a taster. To read the series, go to www.derby.anglican.org.

'Really Handsome!' by David Garnett, Archdeacon of Chesterfield

Henry Scott Holland humorously said: "The more you believe in the Incarnation, the more you care about drains". The heart of an archdeacon's work is incarnational. Last Sunday I went to preach and to dedicate new facilities in a church in Chesterfield. As part of the ceremony I flushed one of the new loos!

A few years before I had sat in that same building with the churchwardens. The roofs were leaking and the place was damp and cold and there was an air of defeat. We prayed and pondered. A while later I found some seed corn funding. And from that unpromising beginning has sprung a community church with state of the art facilities, warm, welcoming and user-friendly. It is now well used by the community it serves. Bread is broken on the Altar on a Sunday, and bread is broken with the community during the week.

Yesterday, I visited a parishioner in the maternity unit in Darley Dale. There were complications and the birth was by caesarean. The baby is really handsome and weighs 9 lb 10 oz. No wonder they named him Hugo! I prayed with the family and blessed him. I experienced a joy both out of this world and in this world. And I thought of how our Lord in the manger draws down our love upon him. Heaven upon earth. Peace and goodwill for all humanity.

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Partners in World Development

The website at www.wdanetwork.org.uk gives information on the Church of England's efforts in world development work - tackling the causes of global poverty, promoting trade justice and debt relief, showing the connection between climate change and poverty, and combating the scourges of AIDS, malaria, and similar diseases. Visit it for new ideas that could be taken forward locally.

The power of the Church in all these fields lies in the commitment of parishes throughout the country, as well as the support it receives from partner organisations.

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St Saviour's News

Foremark Organ Appeal

The Diocesan Advisory Committee raised a number of concerns over the plan to install a pipe organ at Foremark, pointing out among other things that the church had never had a pipe organ in the past, and wondering whether even a small one would not look intrusive among its simple furnishings. They requested that we sought the opinion of English Heritage, the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings and the local planning office. Giving careful consideration to these concerns, the P.C.C. was also doubtful whether an instrument of one manual and only four octaves could produce a satisfactory range and volume when it would be most needed, for weddings and funerals, and questioned our ability to maintain such an instrument.

Because of the contentious nature of its introduction and in the light of these considerations, the P.C.C. decided to decline the offer of a pipe organ and is now looking for a suitable digital mini-grand piano with organ settings, which would be less expensive and more flexible. This has been made possible by the fact that we have had such a positive response to the appeal. Digital instruments are used in many churches today, especially in smaller country churches which have difficulty maintaining a pipe organ. Do please continue to support the appeal. As soon as further information is available, we will let you know.

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St Mary's News

Church Heating and Services at St Mary's

Due to an unforeseen delay in starting work on the heating system, services on the first three Sundays in December will be held in the village hall, and it is not yet clear whether St Mary's will be 'habitable' for the end of the month. Please watch out for notices on the venue for Christmas services, or ask any member of the PCC for information.

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Newton Solney Saturday Brunch

Judging by the number of requests for a repeat performance, the first Saturday Brunch on 15th November - in aid of the church heating - was a great success. Special thanks are due to everyone involved in preparing, cooking and serving the meal, as well as to those who ran the stalls. The net profit for the morning - including 'tips' - amounted to over £250. Satisfied customers will be glad to know that another Brunch will be served in Newton Solney village hall on Saturday 17th January.

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Repton Village Society Coffee Morning Saturday 6th December, 10 am - 12.30 pm. Repton Village Hall Carols with Repton Primary School. Art Displays. Photo Quiz. Christmas Cards. Coffee and Mince Pies. Free admission. In aid of the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School Christmas Fair Saturday 6th December, 2 to 4 pm Everyone is welcome to come along to enjoy games, stalls, gifts, refreshments, and of course, to meet Santa!

Christmas Coffee Morning and Lunch Melodie and David Bordoli invite you to coffee at Laurel Cottage, 3 Stanhope Green, Bretby opposite the Stanhope Arms (Able-bodied please park in the Stanhope overflow car-park.) Wednesday 10th December, 10.30 am to 12.30 pm Home-made Mince Pies for sale, Raffle and Christmas Quiz. Admission £2.50 including coffee, mince pies and sherry. To follow, you are also invited for a £5 fork lunch (Wine and drinks extra)

Santa & his Sleigh Land in Repton Friday 12th December, starting at about 6.30 pm from Main Street, sleighing into High Street, Askew Grove, Springfield Road, Longlands, Meadow Close, Hill View, Pinfold Close, Pinfold Lane. Please allow time for Santa to arrive in your area All proceeds go to charity. Thank you for your support. Swadlincote Round Table

Repton United Reformed Church Christmas Nativity Services the Star over Bethlehem a Christmas musical presented by the children and young people Sunday 14th December, 11 am and 6.30 pm

Bridge Day A friendly competition at Field House, Tanner's Lane Thursday 18th December Contact Carol Lloyd, 01283 702410 in aid of St Wystan's Church Appeal

St Mary's Church Newton Solney Saturday Brunch 17th January, 10.30 am - 1 pm in the Village Hall Cake and Book Stalls In Aid of Funds for the Church Heating

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Environment Matters

Christmas Trees

Are you thinking about buying a new Christmas tree but worried about its environmental impact? The production of artificial trees is resource and energy intensive, and they are not easy to recycle.

Try to find a locally pot-grown tree with roots, one that you can plant outside or keep in its pot for next year. If you have difficulty finding one, try Rosliston Forestry Centre or visit www.bctga.co.uk, the British Tree Growers Association website. Alternatively you could make your own tree with hazel or willow twigs. Finally, after Christmas, do recycle your tree through the district council.

Give a gift of time Those of us who are older often have more than enough stuff. So rather than searching for a Christmas present we may never use, could you give your time to help with decorating, gardening, babysitting, shopping, cooking, or transport?

Stuck for ethical gift ideas?

In Africa, malaria kills a child every 30 seconds. So instead of giving a present, why not donate a mosquito net - £26 from Christian Aid. For this and other ideas, see www.presentaid.org. Other charities such as Oxfam and the World Wildlife Fund run similar schemes.

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South Derbyshire

Rainbow Guides

. . . is the first step on the Guiding ladder, the group for girls aged 5 - 7; at a later stage, we are very fortunate in Repton to have both Brownies and Guides.

I am pleased to say that First Repton Rainbow Guides will have some places for new girls in January. If you would like to know more, please contact me (Tigger - Carol Hickebottom, Rainbow Guider) on 703991. We can also take girls from Willington, Bretby, Newton Solney and Egginton.

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'Stamp & Deliver'

. . . run by Derby & District Scouts has been delivering your Christmas cards since 1982. For details of the delivery area, look out for the leaflet through your letter box, but in general it includes the whole of Derby, its suburbs and surroundings extending to Breaston in the East, Belper to the North, Hatton and Hilton to the West and Ticknall and Melbourne to the South. Lists of the locations covered are available at each of the sales points. Please don't include cards for outside the delivery area; they have to be redirected - at a loss - through the Royal Mail. The first collection will be on Wednesday 3rd December, and the final collection at 3 pm on Wednesday 17th December, when all sales points will be closed. Cards will be delivered by Christmas Eve. Please remember to use the postcode.

You can buy stamps and post cards in the distinctive yellow posting boxes at:

Repton: Brook Farm Tea Rooms; the Dales; Mulberry Beauty Salon; Perry's Farm Shop; Redshaws Family Butchers; Royal British Legion; Samaras; the Spar Shop; Austens, 43 High Street; Vicky Taylor, 154 Main Street.

Milton: the Swan Inn.

Newton Solney: the Brickmakers Arms; Cranberries, the Village Shop; Jim Ward, 11 Blacksmith's Lane.

We are indebted to them all for the time and effort they willingly give each year.

The postal service is run entirely by volunteers, and all profits from the sale of stamps go to local Scout and Guide Groups and local charities. This year's nominated charity is the Derby and District Branch of the National Autistic Society.

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Willington Trains: New Timetables from 14th December

In November last year, the old Midland Mainline franchise was taken over by East Midlands Trains, and the Central Trains and Virgin Cross Country franchises amalgamated to form Cross Country Trains.

So far the timetable has continued much as before, but when draft timetables were published for 2009, there was great concern locally at the effect on local trains services. Now that definitive timetables are at last available, that concern has proved to be fully justified.

All East Midlands Trains services - the through trains between Willington and London - are discontinued. And during the week there were formerly nine or ten trains in each direction between Birmingham and Nottingham; there are now only four. On Saturdays there were six or seven; there are now just three or four.

For all journeys after 13th December, check train times.

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Neighbourhood Watch

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

Repton Church Heritage Appeal Arts Festival

What an amazing display of photographic talent was on display during the Arts Festival. The exhibition of both familiar and unusual pictures of the church and its artefacts was of a very high quality and beautifully displayed by Morag Hill, who had master-minded the weekend. We owe her a very big 'thank you' for the many hours she has put into collecting and cajoling photographers, selecting pictures and displaying them so artistically. Thank you too to those who arranged the satellite events: Jane and Neil Millensted for their lovely singing and playing at Preview Evening; the Derwent Singers' for their 'Incantations'; and Roger Juneau for an amusing and informative selection of readings, and for organising and leading 'Words and Music, Grave and Gay'. Thank you too to all who supported them so ably, whether by reading or playing. And not least, thank you to those who worked 'backstage', those involved with the craft stall, all who stewarded, all who provided refreshments, and all of you who came to give your support.

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Repton Neighbourhood Help, Luncheon Club

We have had a busy but most enjoyable autumn at Fisher Close, meeting at Friday lunch time and continuing into the afternoon for the drop-in session and tea.

On 3rd October Lucine McLean brought her collection of lace work and gave a fascinating talk on needlecraft. St Wystan's School held their harvest festival on the10th, and a group of children and staff came along in the afternoon to distribute very generous harvest gifts and sing to our members. We really enjoyed meeting the children, and hearing their hopes and plans for the future.

The following week saw us on a mid-term outing, this time to Marsh Farm, near Abbots Bromley, where we had a real farmhouse feast.

On 7th November the tiny tots from St Wystan's Nursery arrived to give every member a pot, planted with a hyacinth bulb, which they had planted and decorated themselves. They went on to entertain us with some of their favourite nursery rhymes. Thank you so much for cheering us all up on a damp day.

The next Friday, Stanley Morris played the piano for us to sing along to musicals of the fifties and sixties, tunes which brought back many happy memories.

The beginning of December will see us at Repton Primary School, when the pupils will entertain us prior to a Christmas tea. All those who so kindly help us week by week in one way or another are invited to join us there.

Our Christmas Lunch will be at Fisher Close at 12.30 pm on 12th December. We hope all our members will be able to attend.

Our first meeting of 2009 will be on the 9th January.

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Repton W.I.

Both the audience and the presenter voted Repton W.I.'s 'Historic Fashion Show' a great success. Notty Hornblower was most impressed with facilities in the 400 Hall, which enabled her to stage a comprehensive display from her huge costume collection. The audience loved the costumes and marvelled at her ability to remember how she acquired every item.

Gloomy November was brightened for members and visitors by Jeff Bates' talk on 'Colour in the Winter Garden'. His slides reminded us that our gardens can have both flowers and scent if we choose our plants and shrubs carefully.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 9th December, 7.15 pm in the village hall: 'An old-fashioned Christmas', followed by entertainment by the A Capella Singers. Don't forget your gift for the Gift Exchange.

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Repton Village History Group

Social Get Together: Thursday, 4th December

Our December 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, but remember it's on a Thursday. If you have any questions, please contact Glenys Shakespeare on 544085.

Tuesday, 20th January: 'Below Stairs, the life of a Victorian Servant'

At our first meeting of the new year, our speaker is Dr. Wendy Freer. 7.30 pm in the village hall. Visitors are always welcome.

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Repton Village Society

Coffee Morning, Saturday 6th December

The charity to benefit from this year's coffee morning (Repton Village Hall, 10 am - 12.30 pm) will be the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre, and there will Christmas Cards and suchlike for sale to support them. Repton Primary School pupils are going to perform carols and there is to be a display of their paintings. Repton School Art Department will also be mounting a display. Photographs of local objects taken from unusual angles will make an interesting quiz, and coffee and mince pies will be available. All proceeds including those from the raffle will go to the charity as usual. Free admission.

Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre

. . . was founded as a charity in 1891 to provide disadvantaged Derbyshire children with holidays at Skegness, and today accommodates 450 children a year. The children come from various backgrounds. For most, financial circumstances offer no prospect of a holiday with their family, for some, special circumstances such as bereavement create difficulties at home, and for others a break provides respite for both children and parents or carers. A holiday together, away from stressful surroundings, provides endless opportunity for the children to develop personally and socially, boosting their confidence, and making it clear to them that they are accepted as individuals. The development of their self-esteem, attitudes and behaviour can be significant, remaining with them throughout their lives.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

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

• Parish Precept: Following a detailed review of current income and expenditure it has been decided to set the Parish Precept at £13,700 for the year commencing 5th April 2009. This is an increase of £350; at 2.5% it is less than half the present rate of inflation.
• Planning Applications: Among planning applications this month, there was one to create a taxi rank at The Old Mitre. The Parish Council objected because of the hazards for motorists and pedestrians on a very dangerous part of Burton Road. It also called for the applicants to consider other more suitable sites that are available in Repton, and requested a site visit by members of the Development Control Committee so they might fully appreciate the traffic hazards in the area.
• Village Party: The May Day Committee asked for and was granted permission to use Mitre Field on 2nd May for a village May Day party. The parish council has also agreed to contribute £500 towards the event. The last May Day party - in 2007 - was very well supported and greatly enjoyed.
• Willington Bridge: Not for the first time councillors' attention has been drawn to the fact that the kerbing on Willington Bridge is so shallow that it is barely higher than the carriageway. Many people use the bridge to walk to the doctors and shops in Willington, and say that walking along the pavement there does not feel at all safe. Previously the County Council has advised that to raise the kerbs and pavement would make the parapet dangerously low. County Councillor Ford is to report the matter to DCC to see if the level of the tarmac on the road could be reduced.
• Broomhills Pavilion: A new fire alarm system is to be installed. A recent Health and Safety report compiled by SDDC highlighted the need for this and other Health and Safety improvements that are now being implemented as a matter of priority.
• Roadside Trees: It is planned to plant more trees on the roadsides around Repton and Milton. Over the last couple of years lime trees have been planted on Burton Road; now the programme is to be extended to other areas. Potential sites on Milton Road, Main Street and Pinfold Close are amongst the locations being considered for a variety of species.
• 'Trusted Traders': We know that finding the right trader can be a big worry. We've all heard stories about cowboy buildings, dodgy workmen and rip-off merchants. Derbyshire County Council has compiled a list of 'trusted traders' that have all been checked by their trading standards team. The list includes plumbers, builders, roofers and decorators amongst many more. To access the list ring 08456 058 058 or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/trustedtrader

Next Meeting: Monday 9th December at 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall. Surgery and plans available at 7.15 pm.

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Repton Park

The proposal to rebuild Burnaston House has drawn attention to Repton Park. What is its history, and what happened to the original house?

The tale of Repton Park Lodge, a secondary seat of the Harpurs of Calke, is unusual. Built originally for occasional use, it was rented in the early 19th century by a younger branch of the family as their permanent home. The house dated from the early 17th century, and to judge from the fragments that remain, the stonework was as good as anything at Calke, if not superior.

The later appearance of Repton Park Lodge, from 1812 until its demolition, was due Sir Henry Crewe of Calke, 7th Bart (1763 - 1819) and his architect Samuel Browne of Derby. Browne, was also a builder, dealer and chapman, and - by the start of 1811 - bankrupt.

The scope of Browne's work at Repton Park Lodge is a matter for debate. A drawing in the Harpur Crewe archives suggests that he added the octagonal towers at all four corners, and the whole of the top floor. Perhaps the additions were built in brick, as in 1812 the entire exterior was stuccoed with Roman cement. The same year, new approach roads were levelled and made up, and in March and April 1813, six men were employed planting trees in the park. The large pond in the park already existed and was possibly created in 1705. It appears to have been very prone to silting, which was a constant problem to Sir Henry.

Sir Henry's work at Repton Park Lodge is typical of his fondness for estate buildings. In Calke Park he built four lodges on new drives, two ornamental bridges and one or two grottoes. Outposts on the estate included not only Repton Park but also a fishing lodge or 'casina' at Swarkestone.

Sir Henry Crewe died unexpectedly in 1819, of a fall from his carriage. Soon afterwards, Repton Park became the home of his younger son Edmund Lewis Crewe. His instalment there, possibly upon his marriage in 1832, might be the reason behind plans to extend the house with a new wing, containing a kitchen, scullery, main staircase and new bedrooms. Sir George Crewe, Edmund's brother and heir to the estate, seems to have had a distaste for unnecessary buildings. On this occasion Repton Park was spared, but the casina at Swarkestone, on which Sir Henry lavished so much care and attention, was demolished in 1821, only 13 years after it was built.

Nevertheless, Repton Park also met a premature end. The story goes that Sir Vauncey Harpur Crewe of Calke appeared on the lawns one day in the 1890s with a butterfly net, presumably intenting to add a few specimens to his vast collection of stuffed and cased animals and insects. His cousin at Repton Park took exception to Sir Vauncey's arrival without notice, and a heated argument ensued. Sir Vauncey left his cousin in no doubt about who had the upper hand. The cousin was evicted, and in March 1896 the Calke building team pulled the house down. Some trees in the grounds were felled at the same time, no doubt for their timber.

Thereafter, the grassy glades around the house disappeared under undergrowth, and the site was left to nature. Over a century on, it remains a very picturesque and evocative spot. The pools, trees and lime avenue leave no doubt that there was once a substantial house here, and closer investigation reveals the impressive remains of the 17th century stables, collapsed cellarage, the handsome early 19th century weir with triple arches over it on the main pool, and the Lawn Bridge.

Adapted from South Derbyshire Heritage News, a fascinating and liberally illustrated source of local history. Read it through South Derbyshire website at www.south-derbys.gov.uk/LeisureCulture, or alternatively, you can receive it by email by contacting philip.heath@south-derbys.gov.uk.

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

At our November meeting, Helen Chambers described 'A Tudor Christmas'. She arrived dressed as a typical Tudor lady and entertained us with music played on instruments of the Tudor period. For the finale, Helen played carols on a tiny harp and invited members to sing along.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 17th December at 7.30 pm: Following our usual business meeting, members will be served with a festive hot meal, a delicious pudding and mince pies. Don't forget to bring your bran tub present and a seasonal candle to enter in the monthly competition.

Wednesday 21st January at 7.30 pm

Our speaker in January is fellow member, Bunty, who will entertain us with her box of nostalgia. The competition is 'an old annual'.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School

Community Collective Worship will be held in the school hall on Wednesdays 3rd December and 7th January at 9.15 am. We hope you can join us.

The Christmas Fair takes place in school on Saturday afternoon, 6th December from 2 to 4 pm. Everyone is very welcome to come along.

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Newton Solney W.I.

At the A.G.M and members' evening we welcomed Shirley Aiton as our guest. Joan Buchanan was elected as our new President and the committee was re-elected. Following a review of our finances and activities over the past year, Jo Parfitt, our retiring President, thanked the committee and all those who had made the year so busy and interesting. We expressed our thanks to Milton WI for hosting the Group Meeting. Their theme was 'Dogs' and included a most interesting speaker on 'Hearing Dogs for the Deaf'. An excellent buffet was provided, and to end the evening we were entertained by 'A Capella', a group of lady singers. Members were reminded of an outing to the Mellow Dramatics 'Return to the Forbidden Planet' on Wednesday 14th January. And then our meeting concluded with wine and refreshments, and a chance to mingle and chat.

December Events: The Mercia Group carol service is at Foremark Church on Sunday 7th December at 4 pm. Our meeting on the 9th is a 'Christmas Workshop', followed by a social evening with an American Supper and a bran tub. There is no whist drive in December.

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Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

Safety measures on the B5008: There has been a further meeting with Derbyshire County Council. It was decided to request an informal meeting with the police regarding the possible extension of the 30 mph zone along the Newton Park section. Additional improvements are to be implemented, including - at the relevant times - a 20 mph area near the school.

The 'Affordable Housing' project is not proceeding. The housing association was unable to identify a suitable site, so there is no immediate prospect of going ahead.

Next meeting: Friday 12th December, 7.45 pm in Newton Solney village hall.

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Gardening Notes

Persistent rain and lack of sunshine created many problems this summer, but the best autumn colours for many years have provided some compensation.

Whatever the calendar says, the gardening year never ends, and there are still jobs to do in December. Take time to walk round the garden and decide what is not giving good value, what needs replacing or moving or help, as well as what has done well.

Roses can be pruned now, or left till March if they only need pruning lightly. Deciduous trees and shrubs can be pruned whilst they are dormant, but not those which flower in spring or early summer and have their flower buds already formed. Apple and pear trees grown as standards will probably need pruning, and would benefit from an organic winter wash to avoid overwintering pests. Grapes grown in the greenhouse or outside need careful pruning; do it sometime before Christmas, while the vine is fully dormant, to minimise bleeding. Grapes form on one year old wood, and are mostly grown on the rod and spur or cordon principle, a permanent vertical framework with horizontal lateral branches.

Check tree stakes after strong winds. Recently planted trees and shrubs should also be checked after a hard frost, as this too may loosen them.

Bare-root roses, currants, gooseberries and summer-fruiting raspberries can all be planted now. It is also a good time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs, both bare-root and container grown, so long as the soil is not waterlogged or frozen. Dig a hole at least twice the width of the rootball, but do not plant it any deeper than it had been planted before. Remember how big the plants can grow and allow enough space. Smaller trees will establish and initially grow faster than larger ones. With container grown plants, traditional advice is that the roots should be teased out, but recent research suggests that it may be better to prune the fine roots lightly all round - by about 10 mm.

Plan next year's vegetable plot and order seeds.

Dig the vegetable plot when possible, but if the ground is very wet, walk on boards to avoid compacting the soil. Shallots can be planted now but will rot in waterlogged soil, so plant them on a ridge. Garlic can be planted until February, but needs at least a month at less than 10°C if it is to form cloves rather than one big bulb. Check all house plants regularly and remove all dead or mouldy leaves. Most house plants prefer a steady temperature, not too cold at night or too hot by day. Centrally heated rooms can be very dry, but avoid overwatering; standing plants in a tray of damp gravel will often help, but avoid wetting the flowers or - with plants such as African violets - the hairy foliage. Cyclamen need a cool and light spot, and are best watered by standing them in a saucer of water to avoid wetting the corm.

Check stored fruit, vegetables, dahlias and cannas. Bring autumn-planted pots of bulbs into a cool, light place for a few weeks before bringing them indoors.

The R.H.S. has had many reports of vegetables, especially potatoes, tomatoes and legumes, damaged by farmyard manure. Ornamental plants such as delphinium, phlox and roses may also be susceptible. It seems that gardeners have bought the manure from farms where aminopyralid, a hormone-type weedkiller, has been used. This has passed through the cattle and horses that have fed on treated pastures and into the manure. Farmers have not read the instructions on the packet! The Pesticide Safety Directory and Food Standards Agency have given assurances that produce from affected land is safe to eat, but crops have been lost or yields greatly reduced. Now that everyone is aware of the situation, the problem will hopefully not recur. However, gardeners would be wise to be cautious, and should seek assurances from suppliers that the bedding or forage used in the manure has not been treated with hormone-type weed killers.

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Dominic in Africa

Life is becoming very busy as the end of year exams loom alarmingly close. The new timetable also means that I am teaching both of my grade 9 classes at the same time, a grand total of 112 pupils. The lessons can get a little hectic, as I teach one class, give them a task, then run to the next and do the same, then back to the first and so on. So far, it appears to be working, as apart from the start of the lesson, both classes are always busy - or at least, they should be! Of course, there are always exceptions, and in my case it is a boy called Jacob. Although Jacob is in grade 9, he is actually 20 years old and almost constantly in the staffroom. It is an achievement just to have him in class, sitting quietly, with a pen in his hand.

My history class in grade 11 is doing quite well, and the majority now give answers that are actually relevant! At first I would often receive answers about a different topic completely. However, after writing countless model answers myself and going through their work with them individually, I am starting to see a real improvement. Considering that English is their second language, their ability to write and speak it is amazing.

In grade 12, Edmund and I are currently teaching computer technology. The exams are surprisingly complex given that the level of computer literacy here is low, and access to computers is very limited.

I am starting a musical group with the children at Puledi Primary School, singing English children's songs to my guitar. Maybe they will teach me some African ones in return. I am hoping to start a football team next year at Fedile, as there are some very skilled students who just need to be organised! One of the teachers has been wanting to do a drama production for some time, but hasn't as there is no school hall. However, we may have persuaded him that it is possible to present a play outside, especially in this country where for the majority of the year the weather isn't an issue!

Family Life

The family we are staying with is great. Two of the daughters, Portia and Daphne, have returned to university in Pretoria, and Pearl is doing her final matriculation exams. Makosha, Mrs. Mahloko's niece, has got used to us and has become much livelier. She finds it very amusing to mimic whatever we are doing. Even when I am sitting down making a card or my scrapbook, Makosha comes to sit with me and do her colouring book! On the food front not much has changed, except that we have eaten chicken feet and intestines fairly regularly, and have had chicken neck once. I am helping to cook most days, so hopefully I will be able to make pap on my own soon - it is surprisingly difficult to make it correctly!

A very different church

We were taken to the Zion Christian Church by a teaching colleague, Mr. Madidamalo. The ZCC combines traditional customs with Christianity. An all male choir, the Mokuko, sing in a traditional style, and use traditional dance, with stamping and jumping. They move in a circular motion around a central leader, who holds a staff and whip to keep them in time. It is quite hypnotic. They are also very dedicated, as is the all-female choir. They arrive on a Saturday evening at 11 pm and dance until 5 am. Then they return at 11 am to dance until the start of the service at 2 pm, and quite often dance after it as well! Throughout the service members of the congregation were contacted by the spirits. When someone has been contacted, they beckon the person that the message is intended for to follow them outside to a place where the messages are delivered. This may be a continuation of the tradition of contacting the ancestors, even though traditional religion is regarded as heathen. However, the culture here is still very strong. A male is not considered a man until he is circumcised, which for many means a three month ordeal out in the bush with a traditional healer. The traditional healer is of course very well paid!

And another!

We also went to a gathering of Baptist churches in Makopane, which meant getting up at half past four in the morning to go and wait for a bus that was, typically, over an hour and a half late. The day consisted of much singing and dancing, preaching and praying, but also baptisms and healing. Baptisms meant being fully submerged in a small pool, and many had to be restrained afterwards as the evil spirits left them. There were also healings, where people controlled by evil spirits writhed, wailed, shouted, drooled and struggled on the floor, with various pastors and prophets shouting at the evil spirits to be gone. Strangely, I have only seen women consumed by the spirits. It was a very long day, as we were there for over 12 hours, but we made some good friends and saw many interesting - and sometimes amusing - things.

The news of Barrack Obama's victory has been very well received here, as he is seen as African, and someone who is going to benefit Africa greatly.

Please keep sending emails and letters, it's great to hear what other people are doing and it is strangely exciting to receive post! I wish you all a merry Christmas!