April 2010 - Contents The risen Christ is alive and active Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Services for Holy Week Services at St Wystan's, Repton Services at St Saviour's, Foremark Services at St Mary's, Newton Solney Readers and Intercessors at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Wystan's Brasses at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Saviour's United Reformed Church Services at the United Reformed Church Coffee morning, Saturday 10th April, 10.30 to 11.30 am Shell (for children aged 7+) Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Priya Mary and Naya Mary Munnien Noah James Leyland Funerals and Burial of Ashes June Mary Drake Ernest Albert Lambert Ronald Padmore The Memorial Book Repton Church Heritage Appeal Spring into Fashion St Wystan's News St Wystan's Annual Parochial Church Meeting St Wystan's Church Development, Phase 1b Church 'dos' Repton M.U. St Saviour's News Foremark Church Annual Parochial Church Meeting St Mary's News Decorating St Mary's Church for Easter Easter Exploration, 2nd April from 10 am to noon Barn Dance at Calke, Saturday 17th April St George's Day Musical Spectacular, Friday 23rd April Repton Pre-School 45th Anniversary Party, Saturday 24th April Repton School Concert, Wednesday 28th April Coffee Morning, Wednesday 28th April Environment Matters Help to record the variety of wildlife You and your Pet Neutering is beneficial Pets can give blood too! Neighbourhood Watch Please keep it quiet! Don't suffer in silence! Burglary Online protection 'ICE' South Derbyshire Willington Arts Festival, 1st - 3rd May 2010 Trains at Willington Derbyshire Handy Van Network Safer Homes South Derbyshire Repton Village and History Coffee Morning and Open Garden, Wednesday 28th April 100 and 25 (Scouts and Beavers) Question Time with your Parliamentary Candidates, Tuesday 20th April Repton Village Show, Saturday 4th September RVS Floral Container / Front Garden Competition Repton Village Society Repton W.I. Repton Village History Group Bletchley Park and the Enigma, Monday 26th April 'Wide Open' - Paintings and drawings by Heather Duncan, 22nd April to 26th June Russian Cruise, Moscow to St Petersburg, 13th - 24th May 2011 Repton School 400 Hall Repton Parish Council Jottings The Local Development Framework The Parish Council's Response to the LDF Core Strategy Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club, Tuesday 6th April Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Further Afield Walk to the Wall! Saturday 22nd May Gardening Notes

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The risen Christ is alive and active

Dear Friends,

At last there are signs of hope springing from the cold earth. It has been a long wait. My lawn has never been so yellow or so full of moss. Judging by appearances, it has changed from 90 to 99% moss! Will there be any grass to cut this year? However the purple crocuses at the bottom of the garden are thriving under my grass-cutting regime and have spread so much that what was once a 'patch' could now be called a 'carpet', though I'm not quite sure to what area each term could be applied; perhaps some qualified gardener will tell me.

A bonus of parochial visiting is to see other people's fine gardens. One delightful species spotted this morning was the hardy cyclamen. Of this most delicate, tiny and beautiful flower the Welsh poet R.S. Thomas says:

They are white moths
With wings
Lifted
Over a dark water
In act to fly.                  (Collected Poems 1945 - 1990)

Parish visiting has other benefits too. While the ladies were springing into fashion this evening, I had the privilege of hearing how a man had come to faith. I asked his permission to refer here to his story because it seems to me pertinent to our theme of hope and new life at this season of spring and Easter.

The gentleman in question was not a churchgoer. To please his daughter he had reluctantly gone to her wedding rehearsal in Rolleston church before he did his duty and gave her away at the ceremony the following day. As is customary, the bride's father has very little to say and therefore much time to sit and ponder the scenery in the church as the clergyman speaks to the couple to be.

Behind the altar at Rolleston there is an alabaster relief of the angels at the tomb from which Jesus has been raised. My friend began to consider this scene and it 'spoke' to him in a remarkable way. In fact he was so moved by it that it changed his whole outlook on God, the Church and faith. As he said, he has never looked back.

Not surprisingly, when he has told this story to others he has invariably found one person or another whose experience was similar.

We are always in danger of thinking that the Easter stories of Jesus' rising are just that - stories. It is good to be reminded that God is out there; the risen Christ is alive and active, and he is calling people to himself.

Carol and I wish you all a most joyful, blessed and happy Easter.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

Services for Holy Week

Whether you are a regular worshipper or enquirer, I invite you to join with us for one or more of the services during this wonderful week. The 'Great three Days' - Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Day - constitute, create and initiate our Christian faith. As we celebrate them together and grow into their pattern, so we rediscover every year what it means to be Christian.

Maundy Thursday

Eucharist of the Last Supper, 8 pm

Maundy Thursday is the first of the 'Great Three Days'. A joyful and solemn service of Holy Communion re-enacts the Last Supper that Jesus shared with his friends before his arrest, trial and crucifixion.

Good Friday

Easter Exploration for Children aged 5 - 11, 10 am to 12 noon

Parents are invited to see a presentation of the story at 11.30 am.

Devotional Service at St Wystan's, 1.30 to 3 pm

At this service we pay particular attention to Jesus' great self-sacrifice upon the cross. There will be three addresses, short silences, a shortened Passion reading, and the opportunity to pray at the foot of the cross. This is a shorter service than previously, and we hope that you will stay for its full length. The preacher is the Reverend Neil Broadbent from Sozein - A Chuches' Ministry of Healing Trust.

Devotional Service at Newton Solney, 7 pm

Easter Day

Easter Day is God's great affirmation of victory over the powers of darkness and death which Jesus won through his death and resurrection.

5.30 am: We begin in the church porch with the Lighting of the Easter Fire, from which we light the Paschal (Easter) candle, the symbol of Christ's risen life. We renew our baptismal promises and finish with a simple form of communion.

8 am Holy Communion;

8.15 am Foremark: Easter Communion with Easter Hymns.

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

Note: There will be no service of Matins.

10 am Newton Solney welcomes Rev'd Stanley Morris to preside at Holy Communion with Easter hymns.

6.30 pm Taizé Worship.

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 Sue Parker, 702550)

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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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Coffee morning, Saturday 10th April, 10.30 to 11.30 am

Another coffee morning with an Easter flavour! Home-made cakes and marmalade, Webb Ivory cards and stationery. And the opportunity to meet friends over coffee and biscuits. Don't miss it!

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Shell (age 7+)

. . . meets on Mondays 19th and 26th April from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. New members are always welcome.

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Baptisms

Priya Mary and Naya Mary, twin daughters of Al and Anne Munnien of 27 Springfield Road, Repton, were baptised on Sunday 7th March at St Wystan's Church.

Noah James, son of Paul and Rachel Leyland of 3 Maple Court, Askew Grove, Repton, was baptised on Sunday 7th March at St Wystan's Church.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

June Mary Drake of Brizlincote Lane, Bretby, but latterly of 5 Barton Mews, Barton under Needwood, died on Thursday 25th February aged 78. A funeral service at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, on 8th March was followed by cremation at Bretby.

Ernest Albert Lambert of Ingleby died on Sunday 28th February aged 94. A funeral service at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on 11th March was followed by burial in Foremark churchyard.

Ronald Padmore of Repton died on Wednesday 10th March aged 69. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 24th March was followed by burial 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 Church Heritage Appeal

Spring into Fashion

. . . was great fun and raised over £600 for St Wystan's Church Heritage Appeal. Sue Hyde and Emily Brigden Ladies' Fashions put together an interesting and lively programme making us all aware of the need to 'weed our wardrobes'. The models, Angela, Angie, Fiona and Janice showed off the clothes really well, allowing us to appreciate the cut and colours of some beautiful outfits.

For the venue we are very grateful to Roger Kerry for allowing us to use The Pavilion at Branston Golf and Country Club, and for the champagne which set a convivial atmosphere for the evening. Hoar Cross Hall and Emily Brigden Ladies' Fashions gave us extremely generous raffle prizes, which were much appreciated.

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St Wystan's News

St Wystan's Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Sue Parker, retiring after four years as churchwarden, was thanked for all she had done, as were Martin Wimbush - who had been on the PCC as member and churchwarden for 11 years - Carol Lloyd, Louise Chilton, Mike Knowles and David Bordoli, the retiring members of the PCC. Wendy Longden was elected as churchwarden and David Roberts re-elected. Sue Parker, Denise Johnson and Janet Talbot were elected to the PCC.

Particular thanks were expressed to David Bordoli for his work as project manager on the first part of the church development, including the installation of a kitchen and two toilets; this has required his constant attention for well over two years. We are delighted that he is willing to complete the task with the screening of the storage area in the south-west corner of the church. This will also provide a magazine rack and book stall on one side and notice boards on the other.

It has also been a very busy year for David Roberts, who as churchwarden has overseen the installation of a new heating boiler, and coped manfully with every possible complication, including replacing the gas main, an inadequate flu, burst pipes, asbestos and failed pumps.

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St Wystan's Church Development, Phase 1b

On 16th March the Diocesan Chancellor, John Bullimore Q.C., ruled on the screening around the storage area in the south-west corner of the church, about which the PCC and the Diocesan Advisory Committee had disagreed. The Chancellor strongly upheld the PCC's wish to reduce the height of the screening, and ruled that it should cut away around the pillar to match the screening round the kitchen.

It is very much hoped that this work, together with the new oak and glass inner doors, can now be completed this summer. We just need a final push with the appeal to make this happen.

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Church 'dos'

Our social events have been very different these last three months. We began the New Year with a lunch of soup and sandwiches hosted by Melanie and Richard Finch, then had baked potatoes and pancakes on Shrove Tuesday with Carol and Chris Lloyd, and followed in March with a cheese and wine evening with Margaret and Robert Blackshaw. These were all happy and social occasions, giving everyone a chance to chat, as well as enjoying the food and drink. Thank you to all the hosts for their time and effort in providing such a pleasant and successful time.

Hopefully we are now seeing signs of spring, which should allow us to really enjoy Jan and David Robert's garden when they have their coffee morning later this month - see page 23 for details. Everyone is welcome.

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Repton M.U.

The March meeting began with the hymn 'Come down, O Love Divine', sung to a tune by Ralph Vaughan Williams. This was the choice of the speaker, Roger Juneau, who had chosen to talk about the life and music of this very English composer. Roger's enthusiasm for his subject shone through every minute of his talk, which was illustrated by recordings and piano examples. Vaughan Williams collected folk tunes from all parts of the country and used many of them in his hymn tunes. We recognised most of them and will now know where they came from.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 21st April at 2.15 pm in the Fisher Close Room: Jennifer Haynes: 'Maundy Money'. Non-members are always welcome to come to meetings which interest them.

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St Saviour's News

Foremark Church Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Hall Cottage Meeting Room, Foremarke Hall, Monday 26th April at 7 pm

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting of St Saviour's Church, Foremark, is to be held at Hall Cottage Meeting Room, Foremarke Hall, by kind invitation of the Headmaster. The meeting will be in the extension on the right of Hall Cottage, which is at the end of the cul-de-sac when you turn immediately left by the main classroom block.

All parishioners are welcome to attend the Vestry Meeting for the election of churchwardens, and those on the electoral roll are welcome to attend the APCM afterwards, where there will be elections for PCC members, Electoral Roll Officer and the Independent Examiner.

For an application form to join the electoral roll, please contact Heather Lowe at Foremarke Hall, Repton Preparatory School, Milton, Derbyshire, DE65 6EJ. The new electoral roll will be revised up to the 9th April and displayed thereafter.

A meeting of Foremark PCC will immediately follow the APCM.

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St Mary's News

Decorating St Mary's Church for Easter

In readiness for the service on Easter Day, St Mary's will be decorated the previous, Saturday 3rd April, starting at 9.30 am. Gifts of flowers and foliage would be welcomed, as would help to arrange them that morning.

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For all children aged 5-11 Easter Exploration St Wystan's Church, Good Friday, 2nd April, from 10 am to noon Activities and rehearsal of the Easter story from 10 to 11.30 Parents and younger children are welcome to join us at 11.30 for a dramatic presentation of the Easter Story.

Barn Dance at Calke Abbey Saturday 17th April, 7.30 - 11 pm Dancing to Bonrif - an excellent 5 piece Celidh Band with an expert caller in the Riding School at Calke Abbey Tickets at £10 include free parking and a hot supper from Andy Austen on 01283 702448 or 07977 440992 in aid of the SDDC Chairman's Charities - St Giles Hospice and South Derbyshire Scouts

Repton Church Heritage Appeal St George's Day Spectacular Popular English tunes with a grand finale including Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory, and Rule Britania. Burton Big Band with Burton Town Hall Organ and Pyrotechnic Effects Friday 23rd April, 8 pm at Burton Town Hall Doors and bars open at 7.30. Bangers and Mash Supper Tickets: £18 from Carol Lloyd, 01283 702410

Repton Pre-School Invites You All to Our 45th Anniversary Party! at the Ramada Jarvis Newton Park Hotel, Newton Solney Saturday 24th April at 7 pm Tickets £15 and information from Karen Davies on 01283 221135 If you would like to donate a prize for our auction or raffle please contact above.

Repton School Concerts Society Annual General Meeting (subscribers only) Wednesday 28th April at 6.30 pm in the Snooker Room, Repton Music School ~     ~     ~     followed by     ~     ~     ~ Repton School Music Competition Final at 7.30 pm in the Robert Beldam Hall Subscribers are invited to the AGM to receive a financial update, a review of the present season, and plans for the next season's programme. This will be followed by the Competition Final to decide who will be the 2009/10 Young Musician of the Year. This is open to all, and there is no charge for entry. Do come and support these fine young musicians. Further information from Sue Parker, 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

Coffee Morning Wednesday 28th April from 10 am to noon Jan & David Roberts invite you to Morning Coffee at 37 High Street with an opportunity to explore their beautiful garden. Raffle and Books £2.50 including coffee and cake

Environment Matters

Help to record the variety of wildlife

While we enjoy the wildlife in our gardens, we can help in conservation by getting involved in wildlife surveys.

Ladybirds are valuable allies eating pests such as aphids and scale insects; the seven-spot ladybird can eat 5,000 aphids during its year-long lifespan. There are 46 different species of ladybird in Britain, and the UK Ladybird survey is keen to receive records of them all, including the invasive Harlequin ladybird. The website has lots of information including identification charts. www.ladybird-survey.org.

Keen gardeners may be interested in joining in the soil and earthworm survey on the OPAL (Open Air Laboratories) website at www.opalexplorenature.org. They are also surveying lichens, which are good indicators of air quality. There is a helpful identification chart.

Dragonflies and damselflies are in decline and should certainly be nurtured to fight our summer plagues of midges! Adults feed on flying insects and many consume their prey on the wing, but some damselflies and chasers tend to rest while feeding. They are most visible in high summer, July to September. You can see what species have been recorded and where and add your own records on the very informative Derbyshire Dragonflies website. www.derbyshire-dragonflies.org.uk.

The same website has a section for butterflies, but it hardly seems to have got off the ground. Perhaps you could help move it along. More than 30 species of butterfly have been recorded in Derbyshire, but they are in decline in many areas; records of all species are important, regardless of rarity.

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You and your Pet

What's New Pussycat?

Neutering is beneficial

It alleviates calling in female cats, reduces tom cat fights and cuts unwanted pregnancies.

It is now the start of the cat breeding season and with welfare centres full to the brim with cats to be rehomed, it is a good idea to spay female and castrate male cats. Uncastrated males are prone to roaming and fighting, which can result in abscesses and also feline aids, a condition that is sadly incurable.

Pets can give blood too!

In Loughborough there is a pet blood bank where blood products can be stored and used as required. Blood products can become necessary with sudden blood loss through haemorrhage and certain anaemias. At our Burton branch we are currently setting up a pet blood drive as the blood bank is running short of negative blood supplies. Donors should have a good temperament, be aged between one and eight, weigh more than 25kg, be fit, healthy and up to date with vaccinations.

If you are interested, please get in touch.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Please keep it quiet!

With spring at last round the corner and soon - we hope - warm, sunny days in the garden to look forward to, please be considerate; sound travels a long way in the open air, and your neighbours' taste in music may not be the same as yours! And if your dog is upsetting other people, please make every attempt to rein it in.

Don't suffer in silence!

If you are on the receiving end and disturbed by noise of any kind, whether barking or loud music, you can contact the Anti-Social Behaviour unit on 01283 595 798.

Burglary

The last month has seen a number of burglaries and attempted burglaries from sheds, houses, a school and commercial premises in Repton, Willington and Findern.

The most recent house burglary took place in the early evening when the owners were at home watching tv. The front door was unlocked. All the keys were taken and a car stolen.

These things often go in waves, so please take basic precautions like locking doors and windows at all times. Keep your valuables out of sight away from doors and windows. It may be an idea to invest in a locked unit for car keys and other important items. If your house feels particularly vulnerable, outside gates and security lights are a useful deterrent.

Online protection

1. Never divulge your full PIN.
2. Never give personal security information in reply to an email.
3. Install and maintain up to date anti-virus and spyware protection.
4. Install and activate a Personal Firewall.
5. Keep your internet browser software up-to-date.

'ICE'

This is a reminder about ICE, a way of helping people to contact your relatives and loved ones in an emergency. On your mobile phone, store their contact number under the name 'ICE' (In Case of Emergency). Then, ambulance or hospital staff can easily contact the right person by dialling the number you have stored. If you have more than one contact name, simply enter them as ICE1, ICE2 etc.

To get the best out of ICE, make sure your ICE contacts:

have agreed to help!

know who you would like to be contacted - not forgetting the place where you work.

are themselves generally easy to contact; if they work full time, a home number could be useless in an emergency.

are aware of medical conditions, allergies or current medication that could affect your emergency treatment.

And if you are under 18, make sure your contact is a parent or guardian authorised to make decisions on your behalf if, for example, you need a life or death operation.

It only takes a few seconds to do, and it could easily help save your life. Why not put ICE in your phone now and spread the word to your family and friends?

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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South Derbyshire

Willington Arts Festival, 1st - 3rd May 2010

This year's festival, held over the bank holiday weekend, will feature a wide mix of activities for all ages. The central feature will be the Art Trail with over 20 local artists exhibiting their work. This will be complemented by workshops (Pottery, Fun with Fibres, Canal Art, Circus Skills and Banner Making), concerts (Hot House Youth Jazz Orchestra and the Manchester Reed Trio) and a film night at the village hall, along with live music and competitions.

See www.willingtonartsfestival.co.uk for details.

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Trains at Willington

After the Parish Council meeting, Mark Todd wrote to say that from 24th May Cross Country will increase the number of trains calling at Willington from 8 to 12 on weekdays and Saturdays. Two additional trains will run in each direction.

There have been requests for extra peak time services from people attending Derby College Roundhouse campus adjacent to the railway station, and Mark Todd has also met the company on several occasions.

Towards Derby and Nottingham, trains will leave Willington at 07.56, 08.56*, 10.54*, 12.54, 18.18 and 23.45. They will return leaving Derby at 07.36, 13.06, 15.06*, 17.06*, 18.05 and 21.06, and continue towards Burton and Birmingham. The journey between Willington and Derby takes about 10 minutes.

The new services are asterisked. Initially this will be a trial to gauge customer demand, and Mark Todd urges those of you who travel to Derby, Nottingham and Birmingham to use the service and show that the station can work.

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Derbyshire Handy Van Network

Home Safety and Security Checks and Energy Advice

If you are 60 and over, you can ring the Derbyshire Handy Van Network on 01283 219761 to ask for the van to visit your home and help with fire safety checks, fitting and checking smoke alarms, home security checks and energy efficiency advice.

Each household can access the service twice a year. It is free. The network is funded by the District Council, Adult Social Services, the fire service and the police, who may also refer younger people to it. With your permission, the service may also refer you to these organisations for additional services and support such as telecare installations.

Practical Help

The service also gives practical help such as changing light bulbs, securing carpets and rugs, removing and hanging curtains, checking that stair rails are secure and appropriate, installing key safes, path and door access clearance, and securing tap washers to reduce dripping taps. Note, however that this is not an emergency service for plumbing or electrical problems.

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Safer Homes South Derbyshire

. . . is a free mobile joinery service that sets out to improve security in the homes of elderly (over 60) and vulnerable people in South Derbyshire. The service installs security equipment such as door and window locks, as well as giving advice on crime prevention.

The scheme has been set up by the Safer South Derbyshire Partnership, and is operated by the Council for Voluntary Service. Most referrals will probably be made by organisations such as social services, housing organisations, the primary care trust, the police or citizens' advice. However, you can also refer yourself or someone else, a neighbour or relative perhaps. Contact Amanda Elliott at South Derbyshire CVS on 01283 550163.

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Repton Village & History

Coffee Morning and Open Garden
37 High Street, Wednesday 28th April from 10 am to noon

Jan and David Roberts are not opening their garden this year for the National Gardens Scheme, but instead they invite you this month to a coffee morning. Admission at £2.50 includes coffee, cake and a walk round the garden. There will also be some plants for sale. All proceeds are for St Wystan's Church. The garden will open again in June as part of the village Open Gardens Weekend.

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100 and 25

This month the Repton Beaver Colony is 25 years old. It started on 15th April 1985 with Margaret Brown as the leader and Margaret and Andy Austen as her assistants. What programmes we ran in those early days are lost in the mists of time, but just now they have been very seasonal, making St David's Day daffodils and mounting photographs of themselves for Mother's Day.

The 1st Repton Scout Group is officially 100 years old this year - the first Leader's Warrant we have tracked down was issued to Rev'd L. N. Hodges in December 1910. We suspect that the Scout troop actually pre-dates this by at least a year but without formal recognition.

For further information on Scouting locally, please contact Andy Austen on 01283 702448.

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Question Time with your Parliamentary Candidates
Tuesday 20th April in the Robert Beldam Hall at Repton Music School

Repton School Politics Society is to host a 'Question Time' debate, open to the school and village community. In the run up to the election, parliamentary candidates for the South Derbyshire constituency, a journalist and a political commentator will be answering your questions. Doors open at 6.30 pm and the debate starts at 6.45 pm.

Please apply for free tickets by 13th April; telephone the Lodge on 559200.

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Repton Village Show, Saturday 4th September, Repton Village Hall

This will be the 20th anniversary of the show. There will be classes for vegetables, fruit, flowers, flower arrangements, photographs, preserves, cakes, and handicrafts. And in the afternoon you can visit to see the display, chat with friends - there are always lots of people there - drink tea and eat cake. And after all that you can take part in the final sell-off and raffle.

The show gives everyone a chance to participate. There are classes for vegetables, fruit, flowers, floral art, produce - including a cake - handicrafts and photography.

The children's classes are particularly important, an opportunity for them to show off something they have created during the holidays, photographs they have taken, or a garden they have made on a plate.

There will be a schedule in next month's magazine, and entry forms in August. Don't forget, this is an amateur show; anyone can enter at a cost of only 20p per item. The more entries, the more fun, and the more spectacular the display. So put the date in your diary. We are certain you will find something you can enter.

Repton Village Society Floral Container / Front Garden Competition The following categories will be judged between 1st and 31st July The Best Hanging Basket or Container (Private and Business) The Best Front Garden More information next month!

Repton Village Society

At the March meeting Colin Bagshaw provided a comprehensive overview of the evolution of both the geology and the life of the Galapagos Islands, with detailed coverage of earthquake and volcano mechanisms. The AGM immediately afterwards was followed by cheese and wine.

Thursday 1st April, 'A Day in the Life of a Nightingale Probationer Nurse c.1874'

Pat Smedley's talk follows on from the talk on Florence Nightingale that she gave to the Society in 2008. Florence died 100 years ago this year and commemorative events are planned in Derbyshire.

Thursday 29th April

The coach trip to Cambridge is full.

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Repton W.I.

In March several members went to the spring Council meeting at Chesterfield before rushing back to listen to our speaker, Yvonne Bailey. Yvonne is a 'doula', a new name for someone who helps mothers-to-be and new mums through birth and the early months of settling down as a family.

We made final arrangements for our outing to Crown Derby, for the quiz and for the Group meeting. Then we looked ahead to another Mulberry lunch and to a garden visit -never a dull moment for members of Repton W.I.

The Mystery of the Silver Inkwell

Further to last month's article, we have been reminded that it was Ethel Shearme's husband, John Stewart Shearme, then housemaster of the Cross at Repton School, who in 1923 gave the Mitre Field to the village for the benefit of local young people.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 13th April at 7.15 pm in the village hall: Dr. Wendy Freer: 'Goings on below Stairs'. Dr. Freer is no stranger to Repton. Members of the Village History Group know her as an excellent speaker, so why not come along? Visitors are always welcome.

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Repton Village History Group

Our February meeting heard a talk by Brian Read about 'The Contents of Grandfather's Tool Chest'. This was a fascinating subject covering many trades, and Brian brought along a large selection of the tools he has collected over many years, including many made locally.

On Tuesday 20th April, the popular speaker, Ian Hingley, will tell us about 'The Girls of the Big House'. This promises to be an excellent evening. 7.30 pm in the village hall.

In May our meeting will include a hopefully short AGM. We are always looking for committee members to bring new ideas, so if you feel that you can help yourself or know somebody else who can, please get in touch with us.

We need a volunteer secretary, very part-time. Please call 01283 701130.

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Bletchley Park and the Enigma, Repton School Tithe Barn at 9.05 pm

On Monday 26th April, Hugh Davis, a leading expert on Bletchley Park and the Enigma coding machines used in World War II, will be visiting Repton School to share some of his knowledge with pupils and other interested members of the village community.

In what will surely be a fascinating talk, he will describe the role played by code-breakers, mathematicians, and even classicists, and the effect that their efforts had on the war.

There is no need for tickets - just turn up. To access the Tithe Barn, go through the Arch, turn right immediately after the Lodge (the small building next to the Arch), and immediately right again. Take the door on the right.

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'Wide Open' - Paintings and drawings by Heather Duncan

A major exhibition of work by this local artist will see dramatic and poetic large-scale oils and intricate drawings in ink displayed at the Repton School's New Court Gallery on Burton Road. In addition, some of Heather's recent abstract landscape paintings will be exhibited in the school's Gallery No. 1 by The Cross.

From 22nd April to 26th June, 'Wide Open' can be viewed Monday - Wednesday from 2 to 4 pm, Friday from noon to 3 pm - just drop in. At weekends you need an appointment; call 07808 930141 or ring the artist on 07906 341245.

On Thursday 21st April, the exhibition will be launched with a private view and conversation with the artist. 6.30 - 10 pm. You are all welcome.

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Russian Cruise, Moscow to St Petersburg, 13th - 24th May 2011

Peter and Carol Paine would be pleased to welcome you on this wonderful cruise along the waterways of the Tsars. This is an all-inclusive trip by river boat from Moscow to St Petersburg, visiting religious and cultural sites from the Kremlin to the Hermitage. With our English-speaking Russian guide you will discover cathedrals, monasteries and other places of historical and cultural interest along the way, and have free time to explore both ancient cities.

The cost, which includes flights, full-board accommodation on board the M/S Dr Zhivago, all excursions, gratuities on board, welcome cocktails and farewell dinner, airport and port taxes is £1,630 per person for a private cabin with port holes, and £1,750 for a cabin with a large window. Please contact Peter, 703317, if you would like a brochure with full details and a booking form.

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Repton School 400 Hall

Are you curious about the work taking place on Repton School Precinct, the area ahead of you as you come into Repton from Willington?

The 400 Hall, together with the Kindersley Gate (by the traffic lights), and adjoining chemistry block were all built to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Repton School in 1557. The precinct was opened by HM Queen Elizabeth II on 28th March 1957 and the foundation stone for the 400 Hall laid that July by the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Geoffrey Fisher, a former Headmaster of the school. More recently, in 2003, the actress Patricia Routledge opened a new studio theatre adjoining the 400 Hall.

Now, some 50 years after it was built, the main auditorium of the 400 Hall is being re-developed to give a more flexible space for performance and much improved facilities for the audience. Externally the only change is the addition of a larger foyer, but this too will give the audience more room, particularly during the interval, and will also provide for alternative uses of the theatre complex. Except for some re-alignment of the paths, the precinct will be reinstated at the end of the project with formal lawns and bedding.

The project has been designed by London-based architect, Bryan Avery, who designed the Vanburgh Theatre at RADA, and should be completed next January.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

A monthly newsletter covering issues from Repton Parish Council in March.

• Local Development Framework: This has the potential to alter greatly the character of the village. You are very strongly urged to read the separate article on this below and act now.
• Allotment: An allotment is available at a yearly rent of £27.50, or £15 for pensioners or those on benefits. Anyone interested should contact Celia Bunston; call 01283 701309 or 01332 865226, or email reptoncouncil@btinternet.com.
• Half-Term Activities: It was reported that attendance was extremely low. The Parish Council believe that this was because South Derbyshire District Council charged £5 to take part in the activities. It was felt that it would be better to continue with the summer activities which are very successful.
• Annual Parish Meeting: At the Parish Meeting, the Parish Council was commended by a member of the public for providing seats, trees and the memorial arboretum in the village. He also commended the council on its monthly resumé of Parish Council affairs - the Jottings - in the Parish Magazine. He asked the Council to consider erecting a sign on the public footpath from Tanners Lane to Willington Road showing the name by which it is commonly known, 'Jeremiah's Walk'.
  
  There was a request for the County Council to install a complete footpath on Willington Road, which is regularly used by people walking to Willington, especially to get to the doctors', and can be very dangerous.
  
  There were also questions as to why so few trains stop at Willington Station. County Councillor Ford is trying to get more stops on commuter services in the morning and evening.

Next meeting: Monday 12th April at 7.30 pm in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton. Planning applications will be available beforehand.

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Local Development Framework

Developers and landowners are promoting development in Repton, Milton and the immediate vicinity, a total of 1631 new houses in Repton and 298 in Milton. (To realise what that means, in the 2001 census there were just 963 households in Repton, and 1,658 in the whole of Repton electoral ward.)

The Parish Council is in general not averse to well planned and small-scale development but is very concerned about the scale of the proposals, which would have a dramatic effect on the rural character of Repton, Milton and the surrounding area.

Viewing and commenting on the LDF consultation is easiest by computer. Go to the South Derbyshire District Council website - www.south-derbys.gov.uk. On the left towards the top of the page you will see LDF, and on the right 'Issues and Alternative Options'. Click on this and on the next page there are two important links: towards the top you will find 'View the Issues and Alternative Options document and access the on-line consultation', and towards the bottom under 'Related Documents' the 'Issues and Alternative Options Questionnaire'. Both can be saved to your computer.

The LDF consultation itself is a meaty document, but section 2.2 is particularly relevant. The questionnaire downloads in Word format. Fill in the relevant sections off-line - again, section 2.2 is particularly important; the 4 options allow you to indicate where development should and should not take place. There is also the opportunity to expand your reasoning. If you wish to make other comments on development in local villages, then there is a box on page 10 for 'Any general or other comments'. Email the completed form as an attachment to ldf.options@south-derbys.gov.uk. You can also email general comments.

Those of you without a computer can view the document in Repton Post Office, and you may be able to obtain a form in time by phoning 01283 595983 or 595821. Alternatively you can write to the planning department.

The closing date for consultation is the 31st March 2010, but SDDC is allowing a few days grace. However, if you wish to comment, please do not delay.

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The Parish Council's Response to the Local Development Framework Core Strategy

To accompany the completed questionnaire, Repton Parish Council has sent the following letter:

In general Repton Parish Council is not averse to well planned small scale development in the parish, but it is very concerned about the size of the promoted sites. Building on such a scale would have a dramatic and detrimental effect on the rural character of the locality. Under the consultation process the parish council would like to register the following comments in opposition to the major development that is being considered for Repton and Milton:

• The Repton Strategic Site is a very exposed hillside location, visible for many miles around: it includes an Ordnance Survey triangulation point.
• The Repton Strategic Site is richly productive prime agricultural land.
• The Repton Strategic Site is remote from essential services, village facilities that are centred on the High Street, and also from public transport.
• The narrow streets in Repton are heavily congested already, due to excessive commuter traffic. The streets are incapable of being widened due to the close proximity of historic buildings. The ancient monument at the Cross is vulnerable, with the surrounding paving, kerbs and bollards often damaged by heavy vehicles.
• Large-scale development in the village will result in a loss of character, rendering the area less attractive for tourism. Many visitors come to Repton as the proclaimed Historic Capital of Mercia. It has been described at the 'jewel in the crown' of South Derbyshire.
• Repton has poor access to the trunk road network. The causeway and bridge across the Trent to Willington acts as a bottleneck. Low railway bridges in Willington limit access to the A38 / A50. To reach major centres of employment it is necessary to pass through other villages - Willington, Newton Solney, etc., adding to congestion there.
• Repton Village Design Statement has been adopted by SDDC. The Statement emphasises on the importance of maintaining separation between Repton and Milton, and the need to retain open spaces, green wedges and county views in Repton to preserve the rural character of the village.
• A Housing Needs Survey for Repton which was carried out in 2008 recommended that a mixed development of just 18 affordable dwellings was necessary to alleviate local housing needs.
• The Milton sites are non-strategic. As Milton is not a sustainable village it is assumed the sites will not be developed.

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

At the beginning of March we held our Annual Dinner at The Millwheel in Hartshorne.

At the March meeting, our speaker was Susan Hyde, who gave a fascinating talk about the colours we choose to wear and why.

We meet on the third Wednesday of each month except August at 7.30 p.m. in Milton village hall.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 21st April at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall: A representative from Severn Trent will give a talk about drinking water and sewage. So, if you're interested about what happens after you flush, why not come along to our meeting; you will be made very welcome.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney W.I.

In March our President welcomed new members and visitors to another well attended meeting. Marjorie Gaffney gave a brief report on the Spring Council Meeting at Chesterfield. The mayor had been present, as well as a representative of the British Heart Foundation, who received the unwanted and broken jewellery that had been collected for the charity; it was reported that over £4,000 had been raised for the ACWW Water Project to provide clean water and sanitation facilities in Valikandapuram, India.

The resolution for clearer food labelling went forward as our resolution to be debated later this year. In the afternoon Dulcie Lewis, a social historian and author, gave an excellent and humorous talk.

Sponsors were again requested for Jo Parfitt and Di Tidy, our volunteers for the 'Channel Swim' at Chatsworth, with money going to two charities, Denman College and the ACWW Derbyshire project.

The Produce Cup competition for 2010 will be for a decorated cup cake.

Names are being taken for a trip to the Bluebell Woods at Yoxall Lodge on 5th May, and for a visit on 12th May to the Brewhouse to see 'Just So' by the Mellow Dramatics. The booking for 'Calendar Girls' at Nottingham on 3rd June has been confirmed.

After the business, our speaker, Geoffrey Smith, took us behind the scenes at the Chelsea Flower Show, to see the amazing preparations for the few days of the show, including removing lawns, tennis courts and fences. Slides brought it all to life and the end of show sale was a real eye opener.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 13th April: Mike Kelley will take us 'Behind Closed Doors'! 7.30 in the village hall.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club, Tuesday 6th April at 2.30 pm

Anne Bailey will speak on 'Pixie Hoods and Siren Suits', a humorous reflection on her experiences during the war years.

Tuesday 20th April Our AGM is to be held at Newton Park Hotel commencing at 3.30 pm, followed by afternoon tea for those members who wish to participate. Tickets at £5 each are available from Dennis Ward on 701244.

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Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School

It has been a very busy time since Christmas. We have held a very successful book week, where children and teachers dressed up as their favourite book characters. Then the children organised and ran a Toy Sale to raise funds for new playground equipment including new football goal posts. Finally, all the children took part in a singing concert to raise funds for the Haiti earthquake appeal.

Building work has been going on to improve the school environment; this has included levelling a play area in preparation for a canopy to provide shelter against the sun and rain.

Congratulations to Mrs. Sue Newsham, one of our teaching assistants, who has completed 25 years at the school and will be presented with a long service award in May.

Our Easter Service is in the school hall on Thursday 1st April. Unfortunately there isn't enough room in the hall to invite you to that, but you will be very welcome at our next Community Collective Worship on Wednesday 5th May at 9.15 am; please come along and join in.

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Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

The Clerk: The March meeting was the last for Jacqui Storer, who has resigned as clerk. The Chairman thanked her for all her hard work since 2003. Andy Parker was appointed as the new clerk (t: 01283 702476). SDDC Core Strategy: The Council discussed this and agreed a response. Summer Play: The following dates were noted:

• Sportsmobile, 29th July 2 - 4 pm
• Climbing wall in the hotel grounds, 2nd August 6 - 8 pm
• Sportsmobile, 18th August 2 - 4 pm

Traffic: The vehicle activated sign on the approach from Burton has been erected. (Since the meeting it has been activated.)

Next meeting: Friday 9th April at 7.45 pm in the village hall; all are welcome to attend.

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Further Afield

Walk to the Wall! Saturday 22nd May

This is the National Memorial Arboretum's first ever Walk to the Wall, and two sponsored walks - one linear, one circular - will finish within the imposing structure of the Armed Forces Memorial. The linear walk starts from Rosliston Forestry Centre and covers 6 miles to the NMA; the circular walk is 4 miles, and starts and finishes at the NMA. Start times are between 11 am and noon.

The Armed Forces Memorial commemorates those who have fallen in the service of the country since the end of the Second World War, over 16,000, including those of our Armed Forces recently killed recently in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The walk may not be suitable for wheelchair users or small children in buggies, but otherwise is open to people of all abilities, and you will be joined by local celebrities and service personnel. All money raised will go to support the NMA. The person who raises the most money will be treated to a special helicopter flight over the Arboretum!

To take part you need to register by 7th May. Call 01283 792333 or see the NMA website - thenma.org.uk - for more information.

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Gardening Notes

April is always a busy month in the garden, perhaps busier than usual this year as we catch up after the cold winter, but frost can still occur, so be on the lookout.

Most vegetables can now be sown directly outside, but, unless you can start them under glass, French and runner beans must be left till next month. However, tomatoes, aubergines, marrows, cucumbers and squashes all need a warm place. Sow marrow and similar seeds on edge rather than flat, as this will allow more room for the cotyledons to emerge.

Broad beans sown earlier under glass should be hardened off before planting out. Second early potatoes can be planted out in the first half of the month and maincrop in the second half.

Start regular sowings of lettuce. Cabbages, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, summer cauliflower, parsnip, beetroot, perpetual spinach, Swiss chard, parsley, carrots, peas and broad beans can all be sown during the month. Peas should be sown fairly thickly (even more so when it comes to over-wintering peas); the old saying is 'one for the mouse, one for the crow, one to rot and one to grow'.

Cover emerging carrots with fleece to protect them from carrot fly. Give tomato plants a balanced liquid feed four weeks after sowing, and repeat every two to three weeks until planting out in June.

A start can be made on sowing hardy summer bedding such as lobelia and petunia under glass. Sweet peas can be sown directly outside, and those sown in the autumn and early spring can be set out.

April is the best time to plant grasses. They need a free-draining, sandy soil but will manage in clay with plenty of added grit. They should need no added fertiliser. Keep newly planted trees and shrubs well watered, especially if the spring has been dry. Check tree stakes; after 12 - 18 months, most trees should be stable enough to do without.

Prune forsythia, flowering currant and other spring-flowering shrubs. Tie in climbers such as honeysuckle, clematis and climbing roses as they make rapid growth.

Greenhouses and frames can warm up very quickly in the sun and plants are easily scorched, but light levels are still not high. Apply shading wash only to the south side of greenhouses this month; leave the sides until next. Blinds or fabric which can be rolled up or down as needed provide more versatile control but are expensive and more trouble to install.

Remove the top layer of soil in permanently planted pots and replace with fresh compost.

Bamboos can be divided this month. Many are very invasive, so take care where you plant them. Clump-forming bamboos have often been propagated from a few individual plants at the same source and may all be genetically identical. In this case they may all flower together. Bamboos have the reputation of dying after flowering, although this is not always so. The R.H.S. advises that where only part of the clump is flowering, these shoots should be removed. If the whole clump is flowering and the foliage dying back, cut back all the stems, feed with a high-nitrogen fertiliser and water well.

Begin feeding lawns with a high-nitrogen feed, ideally 2 - 3 weeks before you apply weed- or mosskiller, so that the grass is growing strongly when weedkiller is used. Some weeds will be killed by a single application, others may need repeated use at 4 6 week intervals. Daisies and dandelions are best removed with a handfork. An application of ammonium sulphate will discourage clover and stimulate grass. Remember that weeds spread more quickly in closely mown grass.