November 2009 - Contents Bravery knows no distinction Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Services of Remembrance, Sunday 8th November Advent Carol Service, Sunday 29th November at 6 pm in St Wystan's Church Services of Commemoration, St Mary's and St Wystan's 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 14th November, 10.30 to noon Shell (for children aged 7+) Dates for your diary Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Gemma Gibson Marriages Lee Thomas Alesbrook and Karen Louise Swan Funerals and Burial of Ashes Bernard Keith Workman James Robert Whirledge The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Stir-up Sunday St Wystan's News Repton Church Heritage Development St Mary's News Bell Ringing at Newton Solney Roll-top desk for sale Newton Solney Church Fund-raising Soup & Sandwiches, Wednesday 4th November Repton School Concert, Wednesday 4th November Children's Nearly New Sale, Saturday 7th November Sale of Work and Fun Day, Saturday 7th November Charity Coffee Morning, Tuesday 10th November Christmas Mini-Market, Saturday 14th November Repton Quiz Night, Saturday 14th November The Repton School Play, 19th - 21st November Christmas Charity Market, Saturday 21st November Salsa Night, Saturday 21st November Good Food Show, Wednesday 25th November MusSoc: Handel's 'Messiah', Sunday 29th November New Year's Eve Party, Thursday 31st December Thankyou Joan Taylor Sue Sharratt Environment Matters Go with the grain! Knit some Love. . . You and your Pet Join the Great Pee Test! Neighbourhood Watch Damage to cars Safer Neighbourhoods Scamwatch Willington Surgery Carers' Event - follow-up Repton Village and History Repton Quiz Night Repton Arts Festival Repton Christmas Tree Festival New Cubs and hardworking Beavers Repton Neighbourhood Help Repton School Public Lectures Repton Pre-school St Wystan's School Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society Repton W.I. Children's Hospices and the Christmas Charity Market Fireworks Repton Parish Council Jottings Repton Memorial Arboretum Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Further Afield Armistice Day at The National Memorial Arboretum Funding Fair, 4th November Gardening Notes Dominic Farrell: My wonderful year in Africa!

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Bravery knows no distinction

Remembrance Sunday falls this year on 8th November, and as we gather in our churches to remember those who fought for our freedom, especially those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, a name to remember is that of Walter Tull, the first black officer in the British Army.

When war was declared in 1914 Walter was playing football for Northampton Town. During his military training he was promoted to Lance Sergeant, and was sent to the Front Line at Les Ciseaux in France. He fought under appalling conditions until May 1915, when he was hospitalised with what was then known as acute mania but would nowadays be called post-traumatic stress. He returned to the front line in September 1916 and fought in the Battle of the Somme, where 420,000 British troops died in the space of four months. His courage and dedication to his fellow soldiers led to his being recommended for officer training, which he undertook in Gailes, Scotland. In spite of the fact that it was illegal for anyone of black descent to achieve officer status, Walter passed out and was sent to the Italian Front. There he twice led his white fellow soldiers into fierce fighting on the banks of the River Piave, and they did not suffer a single casualty. He was mentioned in dispatches for his 'gallantry and coolness under fire' and was recommended for the Military Cross, although he did not live to receive it.

In March 1918, Walter's battalion was sent from Italy to the terrible Somme Valley in France, to the trenches that faced the last advance by the enemy. He was killed in no-man's land on 25th March 1918; several of his men died trying to rescue his body, and their brave actions are a testimony to his Christian character and leadership qualities. His body, like that of thousands of others, was never found.

Before the ban was lifted in 1939, Walter was the only black officer in the British Army. In 1999 a memorial was erected outside Northampton football club, and the road to the stadium was renamed Walter Tull Way.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

Services of Remembrance, Sunday 8th 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 10.40 am and process to St Wystan's Church at 10.45.

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 10.50, so that the Act of Remembrance can take place at 11.

After the service, wreaths will be laid at the War Memorial by the President of the Royal British Legion, the Chairman of Repton Parish Council and children from Repton Primary School. After the ceremony, the parade will process back to the Legion Club.

. . . at Newton Solney

The Service 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 evensong, which starts at 4 pm.

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Advent Carol Service, Sunday 29th November at 6 pm in St Wystan's Church

This is a beautiful evening service of candle-light and soft illuminations at the start of the Advent season, with well-known Advent carols sung by the congregation, together with Advent motets and anthems sung by the Wystan Singers. There are readings for Advent, looking ahead to the Christmas story.

This is a lovely way to begin our Christmas preparations, so I hope you will join us if you possibly can. Do note the early start, which will allow you to go on to the MusSoc production of Handel's Messiah later in the evening.

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Services of Commemoration, St Mary's and St Wystan's Churches
Sunday 1st November at 4 pm

On the Sunday nearest to All Souls' Day, in Newton Solney and Repton, there will be an opportunity to remember your loved ones by name and an invitation to light a candle in their memory.

We try to send a written invitation to the next of kin of those who have died during the year, but other family members are most welcome as are the members of the congregations and others, whether you have received a personal invitation or not. If your loved one was not buried or cremated in one of our parishes and you would like their name to be included and read out, please complete the slip of paper on entering the church.

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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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Christmas Mini-Market, Saturday 14th November, 10.30 to noon

All the fun of the Christmas Fair: raffle (first prize, a Christmas hamper), Christmas tombola, cards and wrapping paper on the Webb Ivory stall, coffee and mincepies, Christmas game, red and gold stall, £1 stall - come and enjoy yourself!

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Shell (age 7+)

Shell meets on Mondays from 6.30 to 7pm - new members welcome!

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For your diary

Christmas Nativity Services: Sunday 13th December at 11am and 6.30 pm

Christingle Service: Sunday 20th December at 11 am

Candlelight Carols: Sunday 20th December at 6.30 pm

Christmas Day short Family Service: 10.30 am

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Baptisms

Gemma Gibson was baptised and confirmed by the Bishop of Repton at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Sunday 22nd September.

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Marriages

Lee Thomas Alesbrook and Karen Louise Swan were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Friday 16th October.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Bernard Keith Workman of 6 Mill Close, Newton Solney, and from 1971 - 1986 Housemaster of The Cross, Repton School, died on Friday 18th September. A service at Bretby Crematorium on 2nd October was followed by cremation.

James Robert Whirledge of 38 Main Street, Repton, died on Saturday 10th October aged 18. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church on 21st October was followed by interment at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

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The Memorial Book

Repton has a fine memorial book permanently on display in St Catherine's Chapel in the north aisle of St Wystan's Church.   It was donated in memory of Henry Chilton as a place to commemorate former residents of Repton.   All are eligible and welcome, 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

Stir-up Sunday

The last Sunday of the church year, properly the Sunday next before Advent or Christ the King, is more commonly known as 'Stir-up Sunday'. The name comes from the opening words of the collect for the day in the Book of Common Prayer, although now we use it as our Post-Communion prayer:

"Stir up, O Lord, the wills of your faithful people; that they, plenteously bringing forth the fruit of good works, may by you be plenteously rewarded."

The cooks at least were listening, for the day soon became the traditional day to stir the Christmas pudding.

A proper Christmas pudding is made with 13 ingredients to represent Christ and His disciples, and is stirred from east to west in honour of the three wise men. And whilst we stir, everyone in the family makes a wish. A coin is cooked in the pudding to bring wealth to whoever finds it on Christmas Day. Traditionally this was an old silver sixpence or threepenny bit. Other additions to the pudding have included a ring, to foretell a marriage, and a thimble for a lucky life.

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St Wystan's News

Repton Church Heritage Development

In a service which also included a baptism and confirmation, the new development was formally dedicated by the Rt Rev'd Humphrey Southern, the Bishop of Repton on Sunday 27th September. He gave thanks for the architects, the builders, and those who raised and gave the money to fund it.

Many people were involved, all of them indispensible and all deserving our gratitude, but one who merits special mention is David Bordoli. David's untiring efforts have kept the development on track as he negotiated the many problems raised by the Diocesan Advisory Committee, English Heritage, mediaeval skeletons and asbestos.

Whilst there is still some way to go before the last part of the development is funded and complete, the goal is now in sight, and the work that has so far been done has already transformed the church when it comes to occasions such as the Champion's Challenge, the Arts Festival and the Sitwell Singers' concert.

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St Mary's News

Bell Ringing at Newton Solney

Our new bellringer from Newton Solney is making very good progress learning to ring at Repton. However, we still need two more to make up a full ring at Newton Solney. If anyone from Newton Solney would be willing to 'give it a try' please contact Peter Paine at the Vicarage, 703317, or David Roberts, the Bell Captain, on 702159.

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Roll-top desk for sale

In St Mary's Church, an Edwardian roll-top desk, valued at over £250, has perforce given place to the new central-heating boiler and is available for sale. Anyone interested in making an offer for the desk before it is sent for auction should contact Graham Plowman on 702532.

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Newton Solney Church Fund-raising

A very big 'thank you' to everyone who helped to organise or who has supported recent church events, in particular the Harvest Lunch and St Mary's Concert celebrating local talent. Congratulations also to the participants in the concert (compère, musicians and readers) and to Sue Elson on the success of her first venture into production. The audience overflowed the pews and the evening was enjoyed by all.

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Soup & Sandwiches Melodie and David Bordoli invite you to lunch at Laurel Cottage, 3 Stanhope Green, Bretby opposite the Stanhope Arms (N.B. Able-bodied please park in the Stanhope overflow car-park.) Wednesday 4th November, 12 noon to 2.30 pm £3, including home-made soup and sandwiches

Repton School Concerts Society Graham Oppenheimer with Leading International Artists Wednesday 4th November at 7.45 pm in the Robert Beldam Hall Graham Oppenheimer, Repton School's Head of Strings, will be performing at this concert with several of his outstanding international colleagues.   He will be joined by South Korean violinist Mi-Kyung Lee, Italian cellist Antonio Lysy, clarinettist James Campbell, horn player Alex Edmondson, and pianist Martin Roscoe in an exciting programme which will include works by Mozart, Kodaly and Dohnanyi. Tickets for this concert are available at £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). Tickets for the whole season of 10 concerts cost £60. For further information or tickets contact: The Secretary (Sue Parker), 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

Repton Primary School PTA Children's Nearly New Sale Repton Village Hall, Saturday 7th November, 10 am - 12 noon Admission 50p, Children free To register as a seller or for further details, call 07982 781936 or just turn up on the day

Repton Village and School Sale of Work and Fun Day Saturday 7th 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, Paint Balling, Coconut Shy, Lucky Dip, Apple Bobbing and Ducking Stall. Refreshments Teas, Cakes, Pancakes, Candy Floss, Cookies, Hot Dogs, Toffee Apples, BBQ and Soft Drinks. A Large Number of Excellent Prizes to be won

Charity Coffee Morning in aid of Resurgam Tuesday 10th 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 (chutney, jam, fudge, marmalade, mincemeat) Entrance £1 to include coffee, tea and biscuits

Christmas Mini-Market Saturday 14th November, 10.30 am - noon at the URC Coffee and mincepies Webb Ivory Christmas cards and wrapping paper, Christmas Tombola, Christmas game, red and gold stall, £1 stall Win a Christmas hamper! Come and enjoy yourself - everyone is welcome - bring your friends!

Repton Quiz Night Repton Village Hall Saturday 14th 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

The Repton School Play The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht A servant girl, a stolen baby and an epic journey through one of the 20th Century's greatest plays. Thursday 19th, Friday 20th and Saturday 21st November at 7.30 pm in The 400 Hall Tickets (free) from theatres@repton.org.uk or by telephone: 01283 559343

Repton Churches Together Christmas Charity Market Saturday 21st 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 This year's event is in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice

Salsa Night Saturday, 21st November, 8 - 10 pm Newton Solney Village Hall Come and learn to dance Salsa at our Salsa night, a fun evening suitable for absolute beginners. Tickets £10 to include nibbles, refreshments and raffle ticket. And do bring your own wine. For further information, contact Sue Elson, 703604. Tickets on sale in church, or from Sue Elson, Hazel Ward 701244 and Jennifer Haynes 703827.

Good Food Show Wednesday 25th November Pick up in Repton at 8.45 am, to return for 3.30 pm. Tickets at £22.00 include admission, coach fare to the N.E.C. and show guide. Contact Roz Baker on 702759

Repton School Music Society Handel's 'Messiah' with Nicki Kennedy, Robin Tyson, Joseph Cornwell and Simon Kirkbride Sunday 29th November at 7.45 pm in Pears School, Repton School Tickets £7 from the Lodge (by the Arch) or Morag Hill, 702799

Newton Solney Village Hall New Year's Eve Party Thursday 31st December 2009, 8 pm until late Featuring the live versatile band of Jason Kester, superior buffet by Peter and Paul, a bar, and a luxury liner to the hall to create that party atmosphere. See the New Year in to the Chimes of Big Ben and some Scottish Dancing Tickets £25 with reductions for children Tickets from Karen Makin-Wall, 703077, David Tidy, 703833 David Parfitt, 702580, and David Haines, 701491

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Thankyou

. . . to my friends in Repton and Willington for their kind thoughts and cards of sympathy following the sudden death of my friend, John Banks.

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. . . to all who helped to make my coffee morning a great success. We raised £1,016.60 for MacMillan Cancer Relief. A special 'thank you' to Mary, Gwen, Di, Jan, JanB, Lil, Ros and Rebecca.

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Environment Matters

Go with the grain!

In a two-minute online videocast for Advent, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, speaks of 'the effects of climate change, the effects of pollution, and the long-term anxiety about whether we as human beings actually have a future on this earth'.

He continues: 'The answer to this is, in large measure, in our hands. It's about our lifestyle; it's about the ways we are prepared to go with the grain of God's creation, rather than fighting against it and trying all the time to overcome it.'

The Archbishop suggests that people must try to respect the environment. To do so 'is simply our human response to God's hope for us'.

The Children's Society: Knit some Love. . .

When The Children's Society published the findings of The Good Childhood Inquiry, its principal conclusion was that children need to be loved.

Fundraising ideas include 'The Big Stitch', knitting little hearts to be made into key rings or badges and sold to friends or family to help The Children's Society in its work with children facing abuse, neglect and poverty - building the foundations of a good childhood for thousands of children and their families.

For this and more fundraising ideas, see www.childrenssociety.org.uk.

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You and your Pet

Join the Great Pee Test!

Diabetes is being seen more frequently in cats and dogs, as well as humans and November 2009 is Pet Diabetes Month.

Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas to help regulate blood sugar, and a diabetic animal may lack insulin, or tissue cells may be less able to recognise it. As a result the body is unable to make use of the glucose in the bloodstream and feels as though it is starving. Body tissue is broken down, and your pet can become very poorly. The kidneys can only hold a certain level of glucose. Above this point, it spills into the urine, drawing water with it, and this makes the animal drink and pee more.

As with people, the condition can be managed with injectable insulin. In humans you will have heard diabetes described as type 1 (no insulin is produced at all) and type 2 (where some insulin is produced but not enough). Virtually all dogs will be insulin dependent whereas some cats have a type of diabetes that can resolve itself.

If your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, life-long insulin is required, usually twice daily. It is possible to monitor urine and even blood glucose at home. Sometimes your pet spends the day with us so we can monitor its blood glucose over the day.

If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to get in touch for your free urine glucose test (limited availability).

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Neighbourhood Watch

Damage to cars: A number of cars in Pinfold Close, Pinfold Lane and Springfield Road have suffered malicious damage. You are advised to be vigilant.

Safer Neighbourhoods: There will be local surgeries for you to meet and bring your concerns to members of the local police team at the Tea Rooms at Mercia Marina. The next two are on the 2nd November and the 2nd December, both from 10 am to 2 pm.

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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Scamwatch

Popular browsers compromised

Don't use Internet Explorer, Chrome or Safari to pay bills through PayPal. A vulnerability means that a malicious website may be shown as valid, complete with the SSL 'padlock'. Firefox is cuurently unaffected.

Browsers are free. It's worth having at least two on your computer. Most people already have 'explorer'. To find and download another, search for 'firefox', 'chrome', safari' or 'opera'.

Another phone scam

The following comes direct from our local police and was also described on the television news.

"A 'representative' of BT, phoned to say that he was disconnecting me because of an unpaid bill. He demanded immediate payment of £31, or it would be £118 to re-connect at a later date. He wasn't even fazed when I told him I was with Virgin Media: allegedly VM pay BT a percentage for line rental!

"When I obviously didn't believe him, he offered to prove that he was from BT: he told me to hang up and try phoning someone else; he would disconnect my phone to prevent it. And he did - or so it appeared! My phone was dead - until he phoned me again. Very pleased with himself, he asked if that was proof enough.

"I asked how the payment was to be made and he said credit card, there and then. I didn't pay and he hung up. I have not been cut off."

The police say: This has nothing to do with BT. Do not give credit card details over the phone. For further information, contact 0345 123 3333.

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Willington Surgery

Willington Medical Practice PPG Carers' Event

Our Carers' Event in September was very successful. Representatives from the Patient Participation Group, Derbyshire Carers' Association, the CVS, Welfare Rights, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue, RADAR and the Alzheimer's Society were all present and able to give advice and support to a number of carers and their families.

If you have not received the help or information requested or promised, or if you missed the event and would like some more information, please contact Sally Lovatt at Willington Pharmacy, 702242.

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Repton Village & History

Repton Quiz Night, Saturday 14th November at 7.30 pm prompt, Repton Village Hall

Do come and join in our annual quiz night; we will be delighted to see you. It costs just £12 for a table of four. Do remember to bring your own drink and glasses.

The village hall is usually pretty full, but we can always find space for more. It is a fun evening; everyone battles hard, and there is often a very close finish. Between the rounds there will be a break for refreshments and stand-up bingo.

Proceeds will go towards St Wystan's Church Fabric Fund; as has been reported previously, we are facing very large bills for repairs to the spire. For information and to book a table please contact Carol Lloyd on 702410.

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Repton Arts Festival

Many thanks to Morag Hill for all the thought, time and effort she put into organising such a successful festival at the end of September. The programme was creative and varied, and the exhibition proved once again how much skill and talent there is in the village. It was a delight to wander around the church and admire the crafts on show.

The Friday evening concert was organised and arranged by Neil Millensted. If you missed it, you missed a real treat that showed once again how fortunate we are to have such gifted musicians on our doorstep.

In 'Action Replay', admirably chosen and introduced by Roger Juneau, Saturday evening provided a humorous and varied look at sport. A heartfelt thank you to both Neil, Roger, and to all the performers, who gave us entertainment of the highest standard. And then on Sunday evening a Gospel Choir from the Birmingham Academy had us singing along to the music.

The new facilities certainly made a difference, and will enable the church to be used for many more social activities in the future.

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Repton Christmas Tree Festival, Help Needed, Friday 4th - Monday 7th December

Preparations for the Festival continue apace, and publicity now extends well beyond the village. We have had very generous offers of help, but more will be needed to ensure a successful weekend. Stewards are required to help with the stalls and to welcome visitors, and contributions to the craft and refreshments will be very gratefully received. If you can help in any way, could you please contact either Jan Gillham, 703340, Karen Perks, 702392, or Carol Lloyd, 702410.

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New Cubs and hardworking Beavers

Seven new Cub Scouts made their promises and were invested into the Cub Pack last week. Some were new to scouting, but it was also a pleasure to welcome Beavers who were moving up to join them. Some are joining other Cubs from the district on a visit to the West Midland Safari Park. More good news is that we have been joined by Sam as an assistant leader, and Liz is also taking out a warrant now that Linda has taken on the treasurer's role.

The Beavers have been busy working towards Challenge Awards and Activity badges. They took part in a cycle relay as part of their Fitness Challenge and practised putting up tents as part of the Outdoor Challenge, and as a craft activity they are starting to make seasonal mobiles. Although some parents have offered to help Ian and Vicky run things, another leader would be very welcome. Beavers are girls and boys aged 6 and 7.

For further information on scouting locally, please contact Andy Austen on 702448.

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Repton Neighbourhood Help

At the end of September, members of the Drop-In centre enjoyed a visit to the magnificent Repton Arts Festival. The Drop-In afternoon follows the Luncheon Club every Friday from 2 pm; members enjoy a social time, various activities and speakers, a cup of tea and a chat. We shall soon be making our own decorations for the Christmas Tree Festival.

Last Friday the senior class from St Wystan's School brought Harvest gifts and sang Harvest songs to Luncheon Club and Drop-in members - it was a thoroughly enjoyable time.

If you know anyone who would benefit from coming to such a get-together each Friday, do let us know; we can supply transport if needed.

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Repton School Public Lectures

November sees two further lectures in the series.

Benedict Allen, Friday 6th November at 7.15 pm

Explorer Benedict Allen will share his experiences, depicted in his BBC TV series, in some of the harshest environments on the planet - whether with reluctant camels in the Gobi desert or travelling with dogs through Siberia in the worst winter for centuries, when, despite frostbite and a diet of raw walrus, he won sufficient trust from his furry colleagues to risk travelling alone with them through the Arctic.

Dr Martha Holmes, 'Life'. Friday 20th November at 7.15 pm

Dr Martha Holmes has worked on many award-winning series, including the much acclaimed 'Life in the Freezer' and 'Wildlife Special: Polar Bear'. More recently, she was one of the producers on the celebrated 'Blue Planet' series, and presented the environmental show to accompany the series. In this lecture, Martha will describe her experiences as a series producer on the BBC series 'Life', currently being screened.

Both lectures will be in The Beldam Hall, which is in the Music School. A limited number of free tickets are available from the Lodge, next to the Arch.

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Repton Pre-school, the start of a new year

At Repton Pre-school, we are well into the autumn term and the new children who started with us in September have settled well and are already making progress. We pride ourselves on providing them with a warm, fun and educational environment where children can thrive and enjoy learning at their own pace.

Repton Pre-school is a charity, and relies on fundraising to provide the equipment and resources we need. Most of our income comes from our children's families and the committee, but if anyone in our village community feels able to support us, we would love to hear from you. It would be fantastic if local people were able to help, whether through sponsorship, a charitable donation, or supplies such as paper, pencils, craft materials, fruit for snack time, and books. We already work with the team at the Red Lion and are extremely grateful for their support. If you are able to help us in any way, please contact me on 701766.

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St Wystan's School

Over the summer break, the nursery was refurbished. The new children have settled in well and are enjoying learning through play and the many activities on offer.

Our annual Macmillan Coffee morning was very well attended and raised £121 for Cancer Research. In addition, the pupils have raised a staggering £1800 for the NSPCC through a spellathon for the Uppers and an art activity for the Lowers.

At the Harvest Festival each form performed a harvest song, poem or reading, and Rachel Ortiz, the Youth and Children's worker at St Mary's Church, Stretton, gave an inspirational talk. In the afternoon, older pupils delivered boxes of produce around the village, before dropping in to the Luncheon Club at Fisher Close to sing and to present the boxes to the guests there.

During Book Week we had great fun, with pupils (and staff!) dressing up as their favourite book characters. We also had a visit from Steve Smallman, an author and illustrator, who talked to each class and judged our 'My Hero' Book Cover competition. And to end this half-term we are having a Crazy Hair Day. No reason, just for fun.

With all this alongside our wide array of sporting and other extra-curricular activities, it has certainly kept us occupied. For details of our Open Morning this month, phone Lisa Egan on 703258.

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Repton Village History Group

Our speaker in September told us about the National Memorial Arboretum and how it has developed. It has seen many changes and will continue to do so. If you have not been there, do go. It is very worthwhile.

The Gardens at Calke Abbey, Tuesday 17th November

Our November meeting is again of local interest. Steve Biggins, the Head Gardener at Calke Abbey, will be giving an illustrated talk. The gardens there are very attractive and well looked after by the staff and volunteers, so the talk should be well worth hearing. Repton Village Hall at 7.30 pm. Admission for members £1.50, £2.50 for visitors, who are very welcome.

Our December meeting on the 15th will be our Christmas Social. More details next month.

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Repton Village Society

During his talk in October, Colin Hobday looked at Derbyshire landscapes, history and customs, all illustrated with superb, atmospheric slides.

Next Meeting: Thursday 5th November: Nicholas Smith, formerly managing director of John Smith Clocks, will speak on 'Tower Clocks through the Ages'.

Ashley Franklin has very kindly agreed to judge the entries in the annual photographic competition again this year, and after the talk he will reveal the winners and comment on the entries. The photos can then be studied at leisure, accompanied by cheese and wine.

The Society has planted 56 lbs of daffodil bulbs in the grass verge in Pinfold Lane adjacent to Wystan Court.

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Repton W.I.

In October Repton hosted the Mercia Group Meeting when 80 members were entertained (and baffled) by magicians from the Derby Magic Circle. The competition was to design a Magic Circle, and the winning entry featured a rabbit emerging from a top hat.

At the AGM, the retiring President, Karen Perks, the officers and committee members were thanked for their hard work, and Audrey Morris was welcomed as President for the coming year. Then we heard about the Autumn Council and two members told us about their course at Denman, the W.I.'s own college.

Next Month: Tuesday 10th November at 7.15 pm in Repton Village Hall: Anita Staley: 'Life in a 5 star Hotel.'

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Children's Hospices and the Christmas Charity Market

This year's Christmas Market, organised by Churches Together in Repton, supports Acorns Chidren's Hospice.

Repton sits more or less at the point where the catchment for four children's hospices meet, Acorns Children's Hospice in Birmingham, Treetops in Sandiacre, Rainbows in Loughborough, and Donna Louise in Stoke, all of which offer respite care for children who are very seriously ill. Babysitters can't deliver the special nursing care that such children need, and it's hugely important for families to have the chance of a little time to themselves. The buildings are light and colourful and the atmosphere is welcoming and friendly. Children have their own rooms, decorated with their own things, and choose their own furnishings. Family members and friends can usually stay close by in family flats or in rooms adjacent to the children.

Hospices have playrooms, lounges, and activity areas. Music and lights help to create different atmospheres and the special equipment ensures that the children with the most severe disabilities can still use the pool or jacuzzi. The multi-sensory room is much loved by the children and families, offering relaxation and the experience of noises, lights and touch.

Children range in age from tiny babies to late teenagers, and giving the latter their own space, independence and challenging activities is particularly important.

Hospices also provide the best possible environment and care for those at the end of their short lives, caring not only for the children, but helping their families too to come to terms with their loss, and there is also a Memorial Garden where families can spend time reflecting and remembering a child they have lost.

Children's hospices always struggle with funding. Typically it costs £2.5 million a year to run a hospice and its ancillary services, but whereas adult hospices receive approximately 38% of their running costs from the government, children's hospices receive 20% at most. And whereas legacies from patients provide adult hospices with a regular income, that doesn't work for children's hospices services, which are mainly funded by donations from the public.

So if you feel that the short life of terminally ill children should be made as happy as possible, please support them.

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Fireworks

Last month in the Parish Magazine, Helen Redfern described how to prepare dogs to cope with the firework season. But it's not just dogs and other small pets that are frightened; a farmer from a neighbouring village was telling me that his cows can be terrified. And parents of young children know how upset they can be.

If it were just bonfire night, then it would be easier to cope, but the season has now spread over a good week, or even a fortnight. And today's fireworks have a huge footprint; they can be heard over the whole of the village. So when you buy fireworks and arrange a display, think of the noise, think of your neighbours, and try to keep to the accepted days and times.

As we are on the approach path to East Midlands Airport, your fireworks must conform to BS7114, and any larger display must be notified in advance to the CAA.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

The October meeting of the Parish Council was postponed until the 19th, after the magazine copy date for November.

Repton Memorial Arboretum

The memorial arboretum is now almost ready for the first trees to be planted. The scrappy, rubble-filled hedge has been tidied and a new fence erected with access through a kissing gate. Disabled access will be via Wystan Court.

Anyone who wishes to plant a tree in memory of a friend or relative should contact the Parish Council clerk, Celia Bunston, on 701309, or David Roberts on 702159.

The Parish Council will purchase the trees, which will be long-lived varieties such as oak, beech, lime, sweet chestnut, hornbeam or silver birch, to ensure that there is a mix of planting. We may also plant some flowering cherries and rowans, but these tend to be shorter lived and more susceptible to disease. A stake and a bag of peat-free compost will be provided for each tree. A short post with a brass plaque for a suitable dedication will be placed next to each tree, the plaque to be provided by the donor.

It is planned to hold a planting ceremony once a year. This year, weather permitting, we hope that this will be in December or January. The trees will be planted 4 metres apart, the positioning and type of tree being decided by the Parish Council. It is hoped that each tree will be planted by the person donating it, or their representative.

The cost has not been finalised, but it is likely to be about £60 per tree to include the cost of the plot, tree, stake and tie, planting compost and the post for the memorial plaque. The brass plaque and its wording will be the responsibility of the donor.

Next meeting: Monday 14th December at 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall. Planning applications will be available beforehand.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infant School

Community Collective Worship: You are invited to join us in the school hall on Wednesday 4th November at 9.15 am and again on Wednesday 2nd December.

Our Christmas Fair will be held in school on Saturday 5th December between 2 and 4 pm. Everyone is welcome to join us.

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Newton Solney W.I.

Deputising as President, Jean Burns thanked Repton W.I. for a successful Group Meeting; thirteen members attended an evening of magic with members of Derby Magic Circle in Repton Village Hall, and enjoyed a tasty buffet supper. Our 'Magic Circle' entry was devised by Carolyn Steele.

Marjorie Gaffney reported on the Autumn Council Meeting in Derby, where the speakers, Martin Holland, who writes in W.I. 'Life' magazine, and Rachel Heyhoe Flint, the former England Ladies' Cricket Captain, both kept the audience entertained with wit and humour. From the meeting we have bags to collect unwanted jewellery on behalf of Cancer Research.

At the end of October we are invited to a quiz and buffet supper organised by Bretby W.I. The Mulberry Room lunches continue and on 9th November several members are visiting a Hindu Temple in Derby. Members are asked to sign up for our Birthday Lunch, to be held this year on 24th November at the Newton Park Hotel.

Willington W.I. has twinned with Whittington W.I., with a view to exchanging visits and ideas, and members were asked if they would be interested in doing something similar.

After the business, our speaker, Patsie Jarman, gave an illustrated talk show on 'Advertisements of Bygone Times'. This evoked many pleasant memories, bringing back thoughts of products such as Bird's Custard, Oxo, Guinness and lots of washing powders. We all agreed that past advertisements were bold, colourful and eye-catching - unlike so many adverts today!

Next Meeting: Tuesday 10th November: AGM, followed by a pâté, cheese and wine social evening. Whist Drive: Tuesday 24th November. Both at 7.30 in the Village Hall.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

Our speaker in October, Sally Hibbert, of the Lavender Patch, Hilton, gave an interesting and informative talk on all aspects of her lavender business. It was surprising how much we learnt; expect the lavender in Newton Solney gardens to be of a very high standard next year! The vote of thanks was given by the Chairman, Doug Burns.

November Programme

On the 10th, David Bidder's talk is entitled 'Down My Memory Lane'.

For the 17th, an outing has been arranged to Trentham Garden Centre and Shopping Mall, a good chance to do some Christmas shopping! The coach leaves the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 am, picking up at the usual points, and returning to Newton at 3 pm. If you wish to join us please contact the secretary, Jane Bagshaw, on 564520.

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Further Afield

Armistice Day at The National Memorial Arboretum

If you are hoping to attend the Armistice Day commemoration at the Armed Forces Memorial on Wednesday 11th November, note that entry to the service itself will be by ticket only.

For non-ticket holders, the Armed Forces Memorial will be closed until 12.30 pm, but a screen will relay the proceedings to the Leonard Cheshire Amphitheatre. You are most welcome to attend, but seating will not be provided.

A park and ride scheme will operate from Barton Marina and costs £2 per vehicle. There will be no parking on the roadside anywhere near the Arboretum.

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Money! Money? Money! Funding Fair, 4th November, 3 - 7 pm

South Derbyshire CVS has organised a Funding Fair at Swadlincote Town Hall.

Thirteen funding organisations representing a range of interests will be present to discuss funding opportunities with local voluntary sector organisations. They include: Awards for All / Big Lottery Fund; Derbyshire Community Foundation; Lloyds TSB Foundation; Loughborough Building Society Community Awards; South Derbyshire CVS Self Help Fund; South Derbyshire District Council Partnership and Community Safety Fund; Derbyshire Environmental Trust; and Unity Trust. Funding is available from £250 to many thousands.

Young people

This year there is also an emphasis on funding for young people, both as individuals and groups, who may have project ideas that they want to develop. Funders specifically targeting young people will be: UnLtd; Change It; DCC Youth Opportunities Fund; and (from 4pm) Youth Music.

Don't miss this possibly very rewarding and free event!

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Gardening Notes

Autumn may be ending, but there is still plenty to do in the garden to prepare for winter, and for next year.

Protect any tender or doubtfully hardy plants against winter weather. Fleece, bracken or a thick layer of mulch will do for most, but some will need more careful protection if they can't be moved to shelter. Newly planted evergreens are very susceptible to cold winds and frost. If you leave dahlias in the ground over winter, cover them with thick mulch.

Wind-rock loosens the roots of tall, shallow-rooted shrubs such as tall roses, buddleja and lavatera, and it is best to reduce their height. Prune both climbing and rambling roses along with other climbers to prevent damage. Aim to remove all damaged or diseased growth, whilst allowing old wood to be replaced. Tying the stems in as horizontally as possible will result in more flowers next year.

Black- and hybrid berries should also be pruned now. Remove old canes that have borne fruit and tie in the new. Fruited canes of summer raspberries can also be removed now.

Finish planting winter containers. Don't add fertiliser, as little is needed for winter and it may lead to overvigorous leaf growth. Containers may need watering during the winter. Look out for vine weevil grubs, and consider watering with a vine weevil killer.

Continue to divide herbaceous plants, but not grasses, knophofias or tender plants such as penstemons, which should be left till spring.

If the border is badly infested with pernicious weeds, you may prefer to take drastic action: remove all the plants, clear the weeds and dig the ground over, removing as much weed root as possible before covering with a sheet of black polythene for a year or more to finish the weeds off by depriving them of light. Alternatively, when the plants have been removed - and provided the weeds are actively growing - you can kill them with a systemic herbicide such as glyphosphate.

If you plant tulips in November, they are much less likely to suffer from tulip fire. Daffodils should already have been planted. Check to see that pots of indoor bulbs are moist enough. Those showing shoots of more than one inch should be moved to a cool room or greenhouse, except for paper-white narcissi, which should be moved into the warm.

Deciduous hedges can be planted from leaf fall to late winter, so long as it is not dry, frosty or waterlogged. The plants usually come with bare roots. Prepare the ground with well rotted compost and water after planting.

Give the lawn its last mow with the blades set high. Then send the mower for service, or clean and oil it before you put it into storage.

Check stored fruit and vegetables, and remove any showing signs of rot.

Clean out your nest boxes. Remove all the old nesting materials and wash out with boiling water. It is only legal to remove unhatched eggs between November and January. I think our birds have had a fairly good year, with young goldfinches, nuthatches, great spotted woodpeckers and many tits. Now it is really important to keep feeding them through the winter, and to make sure that water is always available.

It has been a surprisingly good year for butterflies too, with a greater variety and greater numbers than we have seen for several years. One day we had ten peacock butterflies on the buddleja at once. An unusually wet winter in Morocco seems to have been responsible for a successful crop of painted ladies, resulting in considerable numbers migrating to England.

We have also had the first hedgehog we have seen for some years, accompanied by two young.

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My wonderful year in Africa!

So now I have arrived back on the shores of the U.K. and had time to settle in, it is time to round off my letters from South Africa.

The year I spent there was a fantastic experience, and it certainly opened my eyes. It is hard to think back to when I first arrived, and how I felt as it became a second home to me, and the things that at first seemed alien and strange became something that was special and charming. I do remember passing a number of iron shacks and huts on the way into Botlokwa, and the sudden sinking feeling as I wondered where on earth I would be living for the next 12 months. Those fears were certainly unfounded; not only do your expectations change very quickly when living in a completely different community, but also because we found out that we were staying with a wonderful family.

Looking back at the time spent in South Africa, living with a family was one of the most positive aspects as well as being very educational. Without them, we would not have had such a stepping stone into the community or have learnt how they lived their day to day life. They were also a fantastic source of support and I will always keep in contact with my surrogate South African family. I was thrilled to learn last week that their eldest daughter has now given birth and that her baby boy has been called Dominic! He is also sleeping in my old bed apparently . . .

Working at the school was challenging but rewarding. Being thrust into high school teaching just after you have left school yourself is like being pushed in at the deep end after just one swimming lesson, but again, it is amazing how quickly one adjusts to new situations. The relationships that I formed with students and teachers alike were the best part, along with seeing students that were struggling finally understand and improve. Throwing myself into activities like the school sports meant that I was constantly busy and also gave me the chance to meet lots more people.

Being involved with the youth group and doing the mural painting at the school made me feel that I was giving back to a community that had given so much to me. The youth group made sure that I came into contact with large sections of the community and many young people from other schools. It was lovely to see their enthusiasm and genuine talent. The community as a whole was very welcoming and friendly to us and I miss being able to walk down a street and talk to many different people. Even if you weren't going to have a conversation with them, everyone would greet you and simple things like this really made me feel accepted. However, I don't think I will miss standing out everywhere I go; it can be very disconcerting to be stared at or shouted at everywhere, although none of it was malicious.

It was very sad to leave our project as we had become very attached to our family and friends, and I was caught between wanting to come home and wanting to stay in South Africa. However, it is good to be back, even though the thought of rigorous academic study is daunting!

It may be a bit of a cliché, but I really think that I learnt many skills during my year 'out'. Having to deal with 'Africa time' and an unorganised approach to life, I can definitely say that I have infinitely more patience and take life with a much more relaxed attitude. It has also given me a different perspective on life and made me realise how lucky I am to be living here with a good education and job prospects.

Thank you to everyone who helped and took an interest in my gap year. I could never have done it without all your support.