July 2010 - Contents On Women Bishops Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Services at St Wystan's, Repton Services at St Saviour's, Foremark Services at St Mary's, Newton Solney Readers and Intercessors at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Wystan's Brasses at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Saviour's United Reformed Church Services at the United Reformed Church Summer Barbecue, 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 10th July at 3 pm Shell (for children aged 7+) Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages James Edward Kerry and Rebecca Kate Joan Bennett The marriage of Roy and Michelle (née O'Sullivan) Varney Gregory James Hanson and Elaine Davis Funerals and Burial of Ashes Winifred Mary Ward Marjorie Ratcliffe The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Christian Aid Collection 2010 Women Bishops St Wystan's News St Wystan's Church Development Service of Prayer for Christian Healing, St Wystan's Church, Tuesday 13th July 'Brick' Banners in St Wystan's Church Repton M.U. Newton Solney Infants School Victorian Summer Fayre, Saturday 3rd July Repton Primary School Summer Fair, Friday 9th July U.R.C. Summer Barbecue, Saturday 10th July Afternoon Tea, Saturday 17th July Environment Matters the great outdoors! You and your Pet The Older Feline Neighbourhood Watch Repton Village and History ngs Open Garden, Sunday 11th July ChildAid to Russia & The Republics Scaling new heights for Rainbows Children's Hospice Summer Play provided by Repton Parish Council Repton Neighbourhood Help Repton W.I. Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society A New Clerk for Repton Parish Council Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton Open Gardens Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Further Afield The Chapel of St Mary on the Bridge Gardening Notes Computer Security

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On Women Bishops

Dear Friends,

There is no doubt God has a sense of humour. A male cleric writing in the latest issue of the Church Times appealed to Scripture to decide the issue of women bishops. His argument was that Paul (in 1 Corinthians 11: 3) and the author of the letter to Timothy (1 Timothy 2: 8 - 11) favour male headship. The General Synod will again debate this issue at its July meeting in York.

The same morning as I perused these letters, the first reading at Morning Prayer was a story from the time when the prophetess Deborah was judge over Israel. She led an army against King Jabin of Canaan and his general, Sisera. The Israelites were victorious and Sisera, fleeing, took refuge in the tent of Jael, a woman of a supposedly neutral tribe. Exhausted from the battle he fell asleep, never to awake, for Jael drove a tent peg through his brain (Judges 4).

This tale from scripture could be taken either way. On the one hand it could be used by those who favour women's episcopacy to say: 'Even in Old Testament times, God favoured women's leadership'. Or it could be used by those opposed to say: 'Look what happens when women get the upper hand'. As we study scripture, we need the Spirit to help us to discern what is of God and what is culturally conditioned.

The New Testament writers were commending Christian belief to a sceptical world in which male headship was dominant in all walks of life, and this was not an issue about which they wished to rock the fragile boat of the emerging Church. Jesus, on the other hand, clearly showed a radical and revolutionary attitude to received tradition, society's attitude to women being part of it.

That women have different gifts and therefore sometimes different roles from men is not an argument to exclude them from leadership. What should decide the matter is not the cultural attitude of a particular age, but God's calling. This seems to be a time when God is calling women to leadership roles in the Church.

That is now generally accepted. The nub of the current debate is how an honoured place can be given within the Anglican Church to those who oppose women's ordination - whether as priests or bishops - and yet to give women full episcopal authority. The Revision Committee responsible for drawing up plans for a way forward have explored every possibility and have found no formula acceptable to everyone. There will inevitably be those who see themselves as losers. We need to pray that a spirit of graciousness will prevail on both sides.

Please pray for a spirit of discernment, charity and grace in all parts of the Church and Synod as it meets in July.

With prayers and best wishes,

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

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Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

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Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

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Brasses (contact 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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Summer Barbecue, 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 10th July at 3 pm

Don't miss this summer treat: Bouncy Castle and children's games, lots of tasty food, and a chance to relax with friends. Tickets £5 and £3 concessions, available from church members, or telephone 701581.

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Shell (age 7+)

. . . meets on Mondays 5th, 12th and 19th July from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. New members are always welcome.

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Marriages

James Edward Kerry and Rebecca Kate Joan Bennett were married on Sunday 9th May at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney.

The marriage of Roy and Michelle (née O'Sullivan) Varney was blessed on Saturday 5th June at St Wystan's Church, Repton.

Gregory James Hanson and Elaine Davis were married on Saturday 12th June at St Saviour's Church, Foremark.

We offer them our congratulations and best wishes
for their future lives together.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Winifred Mary Ward (Win) of Willington died on Friday 21st May aged 83. The funeral service and cremation took place at Bretby on 28th May. All her working life was spent in Repton, first in Taylor's Grocery, now the Jaipur, and then, until her retirement, in the school bookshop when it was situated at the Cross.

Marjorie Ratcliffe (Madge), formerly of 19 High Street, Repton, died on Sunday 6th June aged 92. The funeral service and cremation took place at Bretby on 15th June. Madge was the widow of Jim Ratcliffe, Repton School head groundsman for many years until his retirement in 1978. She herself worked in various houses at the school for 60 years, from 1932 to 1992, starting work for Geoffrey Fisher, then Headmaster and later Archbishop of Canterbury. He was very fond of her and always made a point of seeing her when he came back to Repton. Madge retired to Willington and then spent her last four years in Nether Hall.

We offer our sympathy to their families and friends.

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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

Christian Aid Collection 2010

This year's collection in Repton, Newton Solney and Ingleby raised £1759.20. £1300.43 was collected in Repton and Ingleby, and £458.77 in Newton Solney. The number of envelopes being filled in for Giftaid continues to rise, and added a further £154.70. Many thanks to everyone who contributed so generously in this time of recession.

We would like to thank the dedicated collectors and counters, particularly those who have just joined us, and The Post Office for having the collection box. Special thanks to Chris Ditchburn who is 'retiring' after collecting for eight years. We wish him the best of luck in his university course.

May we remind collectors to contact us if you are unable to collect next year; if you leave it too late we may be unable to cover your area.

You will see that we were unable to collect in Milton and Foremarke this year; we do need collectors there for next! To discuss it, please contact either Jackie Hurrell on 702089, or, for Newton Solney, Jennifer Haynes on 703827.

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Women Bishops

In May, the House of Bishops discussed a report on the draft legislation to enable women to become bishops. At the next meeting of the General Synod in July, all 470 members will have a chance to debate the report, and to consider the proposed measure clause by clause. It will be a key moment in the legislative process.

As previous debates have shown, a majority within the House of Bishops strongly supports the admission of women to the episcopate. At the same time there is a strong commitment to preserve an honoured place within the Church of England for those who don't, although there are different views about how that can be achieved.

The July Synod may be one of the most difficult meetings of the Synod for many years. There are those within the House of Bishops who believe that 'a better outcome is more likely to be achieved in some years' time'. Most members consider, however, that it is crucial to keep faith with the present process, and see no reason to believe that the issues will become significantly easier with the passage of time.

Whatever happens this year at the General Synod, it will be at least another two years before the measure can finally be approved.

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St Wystan's News

St Wystan's Church Development

The Heritage Appeal Gift Day

Thank you to everyone who has given so generously. £11,000 was an ambitious target over such a short period of time. However, Repton people and friends beyond the village have risen to the occasion, and the Gift Day Appeal has so far achieved £8,453. This is a magnificent amount and we are truly grateful. We are also most grateful to those who have guaranteed the balance of £2,547 as a loan so that we can go forward this summer without a further rise in the cost.

Please continue to support the fund-raising events which will be needed to pay back the final loans.

What happens now?

At its meeting in June, the P.C.C. decided it was now in a position to go ahead with Phase 1b of the development - the storage screening in the south-west corner with notice boards and display shelves for magazines and books - as well as the glazed inner south doors. A contract has been agreed with Linford Bridgeman, and they have started work on the joinery in their workshops.

If you are using the church in August, please note!

Construction work on site will take place between Monday 2nd and Friday 27th August. During that period the contractors have responsibility for the site; that means that they will control entry to the whole church, and need to know of everything that is due to happen.

In addition to Sunday services, we are aware of the following:

- Morning Prayer at 8 am on weekdays.

- Weddings on Saturdays 14th and 21st August.

- A History Group meeting at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 17th August.

(During August, Wednesday communion services will be held in the vicarage.)

If there are any other events scheduled to take place in church during August, please let me know as soon as possible.

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Service of Prayer for Christian Healing, St Wystan's Church, Tuesday 13th July at 7.30 pm

This is a short service with well known hymns, a reading, prayers for those in any kind of disease or distress, and a sermon. There is also the opportunity for the ministry of laying on of hands, with prayer for healing and anointing with oil.

The service is an extension of Jesus' ministry in today's church, and is open to everyone.

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'Brick' Banners in St Wystan's Church

The three main banners are now being completed, ready for presentation and blessing by the bishop at a tea party in St Wystan's Church on Saturday 11th September at 3 pm; all participants will be invited.

If you have wondered about having a family brick but not yet acted, there will be an opportunity to include it in future in another banner.

For any queries please telephone Melodie Bordoli on 01283 212652.

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Repton M.U.

Once again Repton M.U. had a lovely sunny day for an extra special meeting. A pleasant country drive took members to Staunton Harold Church, where, by courtesy of the Estate Office, we parked by the lake. The church was new to some, so a short introductory talk set the scene before we looked round a church built in the time of Oliver Cromwell by the Royalist Sir Robert Shirley as an act of defiance. Then we moved to the Craft Centre Courtyard for a cup of tea.

We are very grateful to all the drivers, especially those who are willing to help even though they are not members.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 21st July at 2.15 pm at Fisher Close: The Rev'd Peter Paine: 'A Greek Pilgrimage'.

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Newton Solney Infants School Victorian Summer Fayre celebrating the school's 150th birthday Saturday 3rd July, 2 - 5 pm in the school grounds at Trent Lane, Newton Solney Penny Farthings, Hook-a-Duck, Coconut Shy, Tombola, Raffle, Bouncy Castle and lots more. Come in Victorian costume and get a 'Free Go' ticket!

Repton Primary School Summer Fair Friday 9th July at 6 pm in the school grounds BBQ, Games, Bar, Skittles, Football Competition, Raffle Fun for everyone; everyone welcome!

U.R.C. Summer Barbecue 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 10th July at 3 pm lots of tasty food; a bouncy castle and games for the children a chance for the adults to relax in the sunshine! Tickets £5 for adults, and £3 concessions from U.R.C. church members or t:701581

Afternoon Tea Saturday 17th July from 2.30 to 4.30 pm Anne & Tim Shone invite you to 'Afternoon Tea' at Rose Cottage, Derby Road, Stenson Admission £2.50 including tea & cake

Environment Matters

Enjoy the great outdoors!

The National Forest is one of Britain's largest environmental projects; it covers 200 square miles across parts of Leicestershire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire. In just over ten years, more than seven million trees have been planted and the woodland cover has almost trebled.

The National Forest contains more than 400 new and ancient woodlands; around 90% have public access, welcoming visitors to wander through the woods, explore and enjoy the peace and quiet. Walk among a sea of snowdrops in February, a blanket of bluebells in May or through the forest's fiery displays of reds and golds in autumn.

Each year, hundreds of people from all across the country help by planting a tree or group of trees, part of a forest that is reducing the impact of climate change, and a place for all ages to enjoy.

The National Forest website, www.nationalforest.org, has lots of ideas for a day out. There is information on 17 circular walks, with details of car parking and access by public transport. They are spread over the three counties and include short walks of up to 5 miles, medium walks of 5 to 10 miles, and long walks. In addition, a wide range of events throughout the year includes well dressings, scarecrow festivals, classical concerts, folk festivals, theatrical events, arts and crafts shows, canal festivals and regattas.

The National Forest Wood Fair takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, 30th August, at Beacon Hill Country Park, Woodhouse Eaves. For children there are stories, birds of prey, craft activities, archery and a climbing wall. And among the many things we might expect, there are also chainsaw sculpting, a lumberjack show, and longbow displays.

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You and your Pet

The Older Feline

My own cat, Riko, a Burmese, has now reached the grand age of 20, and has had kidney failure for some time. My other cat, Oliver, a British Shorthair, lived to be 16, but we sadly had to put him to sleep 4 years ago as his kidney failure progressed. Oliver also had an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Both kidney failure and hyperthyroidism are common conditions of older cats that can be managed to improve their lives.

Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid is a common condition in the older cat causing a range of symptoms. The thyroid gland sits in the neck and releases thyroid hormone, which can be detected in a blood sample. The excess thyroid hormone causes increased appetite and thirst, a galloping heart rhythm, a spiky temperament and weight loss.

The condition is most commonly managed with either daily tablets to reduce the thyroid level, or surgery to remove the overactive gland. Oliver was 12 when he had his thyroid gland removed.

Renal Failure

When kidneys fail you start to see an increase in thirst, but unfortunately only after 75% of kidney function has already gone. Regular blood and urine samples can give an early indicator of changes. Cats with renal failure can have a picky appetite, increased thirst, vomiting and diarrhoea, and weight loss.

There is no treatment for renal failure, so the plan is to manage the condition. This can be done with prescription diets with protein and phosphate levels suited to struggling kidneys, paste to bind up excess phosphate levels, and a daily tablet.

If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Burglary seems to be on the increase locally. There have been 8 burglaries in Melbourne very recently, and two in Repton. One of these was particularly despicable. If you have any information, please tell the police.

Meanwhile, ask trusted neighbours and friends to keep an eye on your house when you go on holiday, but don't advertise that you are away, and don't put it on Facebook!

Facebook and Twitter:

Be very cautious when collecting 'friends', and be careful what you tell people, particularly when you tell people that you will be out or away.

Nearly half of all Facebook users accept 'friend' requests from strangers, 90% divulge their full birthday, nearly all post their email address, and almost 40% list data about their family and friends. You wouldn't do that, would you?

Car Theft 1:

Following a break-in in Newton Solney on the owner's drive, police are warning not to leave valuables in cars.

Car Theft 2:

If you are selling your car privately, be on your guard. Two men have stolen cars from private sellers. Having viewed the car and gained trust, they asked for a test drive and then drove off in the car.

Cold Callers:

Roof cleaning has apparently become the fashion among cold callers, with people offering quotes for cleaning and refurbishing roof tiles. Callers may be very good and trustworthy, but always get alternative quotes. Trading Standards advise that any cold caller must:

- Give you a written quote on their business paper listing all the work to be done.

- Give you a 7 day cooling-off period in which you can cancel the contract.

- Leave your premises immediately if you ask them to do so.

If they fail on any of these, Trading Standards would like to know. Call them on 08454 04 05 06. If you are threatened or intimidated, call the police.

Crime Statistics for May

Milton: 1x theft from motor vehicle; 1x burglary - non-dwelling; no ASB calls.
Newton Solney: No crimes; no ASB calls.
Repton: 1x criminal damage; 1x theft; 1x burglary - non-dwelling; 2 ASB calls.

Distraction burglary:

There have been a number of incidents locally. Thieves often call at the homes of elderly or vulnerable residents. One will appear at the door, asking to check the water pressure, or perhaps the gas or electricity. While you are tied up with him, his accomplice will sneak in and steal any valuables or cash he can find.

Remember:

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

Always look out for your elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

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Repton Village & History

ngs Open Garden, Wendy and Stephen Longden, Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street,
Sunday 11th July, 1.30 - 5 pm

Glorious views on a sloping 2½-acre site, developed organically for year-round interest. On lower levels herbaceous borders are arranged informally and connected via lawns, thyme bed, pond and pergolas. Mixed woodland and a grassed labyrinth lead naturally into a fruit, vegetable and herb potager with meadows beyond.

Do come and walk the labyrinth, which is now established, and enjoy the garden, which is especially colourful at this time of year. There are home-made cakes and teas in aid of the 'Quiet Garden' for St Wystan's Church, and plants for sale for the NGS and in the nursery. Admission £2.50, children free.

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ChildAid to Russia & The Republics

Joy McRae, Director of 'Children's Rights' in Khabarovsk, Far East Russia, and hostess for my last year's visit, is currently touring the U.K. during her university summer break, speaking about and fundraising for her Christian and charitable work.

Come and hear this inspirational lady at Willington Baptist Chapel Meeting Room - on Twyford Road at the junction with Oaks Road - on Thursday 8th July at 7 pm. Admission is free; light refreshments are available and, of course, 'Cottage Confections' for sale!

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Scaling new heights for Rainbows Children's Hospice

Tim Jowett and Russell Smith are setting off in August to embark on the ten-day, 100-kilometre climb up Kilamanjaro. In preparation, they have competed in local marathon events and spent a considerable amount of time in the mountains of North Wales. Each is paying his own way, stumping up £3,000 to pay for flights and equipment.

Through their climb, Tim and Russell are raising money for Rainbows Children's Hospice. “We chose Rainbows because we wanted to support a charity where we could see the money we raise make a difference.”

Rainbows provides care and support for children with life-limiting conditions. They help relieve symptoms, improve the quality of life, and provide the best possible environment and care for those at the end of their short lives.

Saturday 17th July, 7 - 9 pm: Fund-raising evening at 22 Pinfold Close, Repton

To raise sponsorship Tim and Russell are holding a cheese and wine evening this month; tickets are available at £7.50 from Helen and Owen Jowett. There will also be a raffle. All proceeds from the evening will go to Rainbows Children's Hospice.

If you are unable to take part, you can still support them through Helen and Owen, t: 701964, or donate through www.justgiving.com/climbingkilimanjaro2010.

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Summer Play provided by Repton Parish Council

Do come along and enjoy the facilities, they are all free of charge. Just turn up on the day. Suitable clothing and footwear should be worn.

• Tuesday 27th July 2 - 4 pm Laser Games
• Thursday 5th August 6 - 8 pm Climbing Wall
• Tuesday 10th August 10 am - noon Sportsmobile
• Tuesday 17th August 6 - 8 pm Climbing Wall
• Tuesday 24th August 2 - 4 pm Sportsmobile

If it rains, activities will continue at the discretion of South Derbyshire District Council.

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Repton Neighbourhood Help

The Luncheon Club and Drop-in will break for the summer after our meeting on Friday 16th July. The summer outing is on Tuesday 17th August, and we will all meet up again on Friday 10th September.

Help Needed!

We are currently short of cooks, helpers and drivers, and also in need of leaders. If you feel able to help in any way, please do get in touch with us. We would be very happy to meet and talk to you informally, or why not visit us on a Friday at the Community Centre in Fisher Close?

We are very grateful for all the help that you give, and for those who have recently joined us. In particular we take this opportunity to thank Biddy and Ted Weston for all that they have done over very many years.

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Repton W.I.

The W.I.'s most recent outing was an interesting visit to the Tara Buddhist Centre at Etwall. After seeing the meditation rooms and strolling round the grounds, members enjoyed a light lunch in the World Peace Café, which is open to all.

At the June meeting, Vivien Taylor from Ticknall W.I. described the National Council meeting at Cardiff. Staying on for the rest of the meeting, she was able to enjoy Anne Bailey's excellent talk on beadwork, illustrated with items from her collection.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 13th July, 7.15 pm in the village hall: A 'have a go evening' when Pauline Ward will be showing us how to use dried flowers to decorate cards and bookmarks. There will also be a 'Swish Stall'; bring unwanted bags, belts and accessories, and exchange them for items which are more your style!

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Repton Village History Group

In May, local historian Richard Stone very kindly stepped in when our scheduled speaker was unfortunately in hospital. In a fascinating, illustrated talk on 'The Way We Shopped', he told us about the development of shops and shopping over hundreds of years, and included many local examples.

On Wednesday 14th July we have a visit to Mount St Bernard's Abbey near Coalville, meeting there at 11am. Members and visitors are welcome. Please contact Alan Thompson on 701130 for further details.

On Tuesday 17th August we will be meeting at St Wystan's Church for a conducted tour to see and hear about the new facilities. We will also visit the WW2 RAF war graves and hear about some of the people buried there. Light refreshments will be served. Members and visitors are welcome. Meet at 7 pm at the Arch.

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Repton Village Society

Despite the change of time, some 30 members visited the Roundhouse in Derby for a guided tour of this remarkable restoration, which cost £46m and is now used very effectively by Derby College, one of the largest Further Education Colleges in the country. Both guides were superb and we saw the old buildings as well as the new structures. The restaurant, staffed by the students, is now open for lunches, as is the beauty salon. Bookings are required for both; call 0800 028 0289.

Thursday 1st July

Richard Morris, a former master at Repton School and our excellent guide on the recent Cambridge visit, will talk on 'The Grand Alliance - Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill'.

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A New Clerk for Repton Parish Council

Our council clerk of ten years standing, Celia Bunston, leaves us at the end of June to spend more time pursuing her personal interests. We wish her well and thank her for all she has done for us over the past ten years.

As Celia's successor we welcome Susan Reilly, who lives in Derby. Susan is well versed in business administration and committee procedures. She can be consulted about any council matters in the parish council office at the Dales each Monday between 1 and 4 pm and on Wednesday between 2.30 and 6.30 pm; just call in or phone 701309. At other times Susan can be contacted at home on 01332 553842.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

• Footpath between Matthews Jitty and Pinfold Lane: The footpath alongside the brook is being eroded and becoming dangerous. The Clerk said that the Environment Agency had been contacted previously, but they had concluded that the damage was due to natural water erosion and they could not do anything to reverse it. It was decided to contact the Environment Agency again.



• Village Maintenance: Due to illness, the contractor who carries out the village maintenance has temporarily had to withdraw his service. The Parish Council will attempt to find a short term replacement so that services are not disrupted.



• Kerbside Textile Collection: South Derbyshire District Council has informed us that textiles left at the kerb side are now supporting a wider range of charities. Until now, bagged materials left out on recycling day were passed on to the Salvation Army. From 21st June, new red bags, bearing the name of I & G Cohen Ltd, are being left for those who make donations. Textiles left in the bags will go to charities such as The National Blind Children's Association and The World Cancer Research Fund. Textile donations made at recycling centres across the district will continue to benefit the Salvation Army.

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

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Open Gardens

Our luck with the weather was bound to run out eventually, and this year, year four, it did! However, the first two hours were fine and sunny and almost 300 people came to Milton to visit our gardens. For many it was their first time, so some of our advertising seems to be working.

Eleven gardens opened, from small courtyards to those with acres, and everything in between. Once again the teenagers looked after a tombola stall, and tea and cakes were available in the village hall from the W.I. Some gardens also sold plants, homemade jams, Mexican pottery and paintings.

Overall our profit was down slightly, although I suspect the W.I. profit was up as many people sheltered in the village hall when the heavens opened! This year our money is going to the Air Ambulance, a worthy cause indeed.

Already, people are talking of next year's event, so let's hope we can keep the gardens opening and making a very enjoyable day. Thank you to everyone who visited us, and to those who helped to make the day a success, whatever their contribution.

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Milton W.I.

During the annual Open Gardens event, Milton W.I. ladies had a lovely afternoon serving refreshments in the village hall.

Then, at our June meeting, President Jane Smith welcomed Adam Watkinson, the Chaplain at Repton School, who gave us a very interesting and entertaining talk; Sue White gave the vote of thanks.

Quite a few of our members are taking part in WI activities over the summer months. As a group we plan to swim at least 5 miles, and we will ride and walk part of the Tissington trail.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 21st July at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall: Val Shelton will speak about Skegness children's home.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School

Victorian Summer Fayre, Saturday 3rd July, 2 - 5 pm

Please join us in the school grounds for our Summer Fayre, which this year has a Victorian theme. Children will sing and dance, and there will be stalls, games and refreshments. Children and staff will be in Victorian costume; if you are also brave enough to come dressed the part you will be rewarded with a free go on a game! We hope to see you there.

Community Collective Worship, Wednesday 7th July at 9.15 am

You are invited to join us in the school hall for the final Community Collective Worship of this school year. All are welcome.

Birthday Party, Friday 16th July at 1.30 pm

This year we celebrate the school's 150th birthday. Hence the Victorian theme of our fair, and also on this occasion! Please come along to school for more singing and dancing to mark this very special occasion. Again, Victorian dress is encouraged but optional!

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Newton Solney W.I.

Our visit to 'Calendar Girls' was most enjoyable, and we now look forward to an outing to Clover Meade Gardens on Wednesday 28th July.

At our meeting in June, members were reminded that we are providing home-made cakes for St Giles Hospice; they will be collected from the village hall at 1.30 pm on Thursday 29th July.

Future plans include a barbecue on Sunday 22nd August at the home of the president, Joan Buchanan, taking part in WI TRI (Triathlon) - a joint activity by members, combining walking, swimming and cycling - and organising refreshments for a Swimathon at Repton in October.

Our speaker was Graeme Walker, whose illustrated talk gave us a history of the Cauldwell family of Derbyshire and their mill at Rowsley. Cauldwell Mill is now a popular tourist attraction and still produces flour of a very high quality.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 13th July: Val Beattie will be speaking on Italian Fashion Houses (Post War). Whist Drive: Tuesday 27th July. Both meetings are at 7.30 in the village hall.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

We all thoroughly enjoyed the talk by our speaker in June, Jennifer Haynes, who relived for us her special day when she received Maundy Money from her Majesty the Queen. A fortnight later, our outing to Amerton Craft Farm and Garden Centre, followed by an excellent lunch at Sudbury Prison, proved to be most successful.

Tuesday 6th July at 2.30 pm

A talk and demonstration by Barbara Ball on 'Cooking for One'.

Tuesday 12th July

Our annual day's outing this year is to Wollaton Hall, Nottingham, followed by an afternoon cruise along the River Trent. To round the day off, we are travelling on to the Appleby Hotel in Leicestershire for an early evening meal. The cost is £16, excluding the cost of the evening meal. Anyone wishing to join us will be made most welcome. Please contact Jane on 01283 564520.

There is no meeting in August, but the church will be holding its usual Ploughman's Lunch at £5.

Date for your diary

On Monday 20th September we are running a trip to Bakewell Market. Again, contact Jane as above if you would like to book a seat.

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Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

Traffic: Derbyshire County Council has confirmed that the road markings and signage at the junction of Blacksmith's Lane and Main Street will be improved.

Housing: The new coalition government has confirmed that the target of 12,000 new houses for South Derbyshire is to be abandoned.

Recreational Field: Negotiations with the trustee continue. In the meantime, the Parish Council, as an act of good faith, has awarded a grass cutting contact to DCC.

Next Meeting: Friday 2nd July at 7.45 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

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Further Afield

The Chapel of St Mary on the Bridge

Within walking distance of Derby Cathedral, the chapel of St Mary on the Bridge, is one of Derby's hidden treasures. One of the very few surviving bridge chapels in England, it is still in use as a place of worship, serving as a chapel of the cathedral, as well as having a regular congregation of its own. Particularly worth seeing, apart from the building itself, are the modern stained glass windows, the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham, the Ronald Pope altar, and the icon of St Michael.

There is mention of a stone bridge over the Derwent in 1230, although this may have replaced a wooden structure dating back to Saxon times. A chapel existed by the end of the 13th century, built by the burgesses of Derby, and in the 14th century a cell was added to house a woman who had withdrawn to live a solitary life.

The present building dates from that period and has enjoyed a chequered history, with alternating periods of disuse and restoration. Before it was restored as a religious building and place of worship during the 1930s, it was used as a Presbyterian meeting room, cottages, a prison and a carpenter's workshop. In days gone by, travellers leaving Derby would call at the chapel to pray before setting out on a hazardous journey into the countryside beyond.

The chapel will normally be open to the public on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 2 - 4 pm until 25th September. As part of English Heritage Open Days, it is also open on Saturday 11th September from 10 am - 4 pm.

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Gardening Notes

In the vegetable garden, July is largely a time of harvest, but where crops have been cleared, there will be space for late season sowings. Growth slows as the days shorten, but a last sowing of lettuce in mid-July should be ready before the first frosts. Lettuce will not germinate if the weather is too hot, so it may be wise to sow in modules now and plant out later. Carrots need at least ten weeks from sowing to harvest; those sown in mid-July should just make it.

Continue to make sowings of radish, French beans, purple-sprouting broccoli, spinach and oriental cabbage. Purple-sprouting broccoli and other brassicas sown in June can be transplanted now, as can leeks and onions sown in the spring.

As marrows and squashes develop, raise the fruits off the ground to reduce the risk of rotting. Spraying potatoes and outdoor tomatoes with Bordeaux mixture will reduce the risk of blight.

Keep all crops well watered. Plants under glass can be very stressed in hot weather; keep them well ventilated and shaded. Damping the greenhouse floor will also help. Summer bedding plants also need watering and feeding. Trees and shrubs planted in the last year must be kept damp at the roots. Established trees shed leaves in hot weather; this is a natural defence to reduce water loss.

Prune philadelphus, deutzia and weigelias after flowering. They flower on wood produced the previous season, so removing old, flowered stems now will give new shoots a chance to emerge and ripen for next year. On large shrubs, remove entirely a few of the stems that have flowered, and prune most of those remaining back to a point where a strong new shoot is forming. On smaller shrubs you can be less severe. The prunings can be used as cuttings.

If necessary, prune cherries, rowans and whitebeams now, whilst in full leaf. Remove the weak and old shoots of old-fashioned shrub roses which only flower once. Make a start on wisteria and fast-growing hedges.

Cut back the side shoots of established gooseberry and red and white currant bushes after picking the fruit. Prune black currants, removing some of the older stems entirely, and cutting some of the other fruited stems back to where a strong new shoot is forming.

Trim unharvested herbs to keep fresh growth coming. The main culinary herbs are mint, sage, thyme, parsley and chives; lovage and sorrel are less commonly used. Lavender, rosemary and camomile are mainly used in cosmetics. Lemon eucalyptus will keep mosquitoes at bay, and artemisias repel moths. Rue can cause serious rashes; don't let it touch your skin. Herbs are easy to grow; a herb garden takes little effort and is a source of pleasure.

Propagate hydrangeas from softwood cuttings taken now. Choose clean shoots, and with a sharp knife cut them to a length of five or six inches, planting immediately. Alternatively, put them in a jar of water, and plant up when roots form. Grow the cuttings on until they reach four nodes, then pinch the top out to encourage them to break from the base.

Dianthus can be propagated by training a stem to the side of the plant, burying it in soil but leaving the tip clear. Hold the buried section down with a stone or pin. Sever from the main plant when the roots have formed. Now is also a good time to take cuttings of dianthus and osteospermums, and intermodal cuttings of clematis.

We are seeing an increasing number of foreign insect pests. Following recent and continuing problems with elms - a rarity now - oaks, chestnuts, lilies and fritillaries, there is now a scale insect attacking wisteria, a beetle attacking rosemary, and another attacking asparagus. They are all difficult to deal with, but less so if caught early.

Top up ponds and water features with rain water, if possible. Remove duckweed, blanket weed, and the dead foliage of aquatic plants.

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Computer Security

Fraud and e-crime are thought to cost the UK economy £30 billion every year, over £460 for every man, woman and child. Little is actually detected, mainly because many of the fraudsters operate from places such as Spain, Hong Kong and even Australia. They may purport to operate from the United Kingdom - to give the impression that their dealings are both honourable and legitimate - but invariably the calls are simply diverted from abroad.

There are literally hundreds of ways in which the fraudsters operate; the list is frightening: phishing and identity theft; cash machine fraud; advance fee, lottery and investment scams; fraudulent money transfers, internet auctions and business. And many of these operate equally well online or by phone. Here are a few current threats.

Facebook: Hacked Facebook accounts are often used to spread malware. It's clear that people don't treat Facebook messages with the same level of suspicion they would if they received an e-mail or an instant message with a suspicious link. Always be very cautious when accepting 'friend' invitations from people you don't know.

Fake Antivirus Software and Windows 7 Compatibility Checkers account for 15% of all malware, with over 11,000 domains involved in their distribution. Fake Antivirus Software frequently offers to remove malware from your computer! One of the most popular scams is to frighten you by warning you that a virus has been detected. You are then directed to a site where you can download software to remove it. If you fall for it, not merely have the scammers got your credit card details, but they have also taken control of your machine.

Spam: Many spam emails arrive via acquaintances whose computers have been hi-jacked. They are usually about impotency, adult dating, and celebrity scandals. They are all bogus, capable of modifying Internet Explorer and Firefox browsers in order to direct you towards compromised websites.

OU Safe Computing: I'm not surprised to learn that many people fail to take basic precautions. Even so, I am astonished that the Open University's 'safe computing' service has only 800 subscribers! To me it is an essential source of advice. In particular, it keeps me up to date with current phishing threats, with viruses, and with updates - and despite manufacturers' claims, some common software doesn't update properly. The service is free, and it is easy to subscribe. Go to safecomputing.open.ac.uk.

And finally: Always update anti-virus systems daily, use a personal firewall and a spyware inhibitor, and check for system updates regularly.