September 2010 - Contents Come and See! Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches 'Back to Church Sunday' and Harvest Festival, Sunday 26th September Other Services Groups Service of Prayer for Christian Healing, Wednesday 15th September 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 Service to inaugurate the new Derby District, Saturday 4th September Picnic at Rosliston Forestry Centre, Sunday 5th September Coffee Morning and Rural Churches Ride & Stride, Saturday 11th September Harvest Festival Services, Sunday 26th September Shell (for children aged 7+) Derbyshire Police Constabulary Choir, Friday 19th November Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages Jon Michael Stewart Deeley and Charlotte Emily May Christopher Leslie Gawn and Antonia Alice Wimbush Richard Andrew Jones and Jane Emily Campbell Funerals and Burial of Ashes John Raymond Prince The Memorial Book Derby Diocese The Dean of Derby A Royal Souvenir Repton Benefice Sponsored 'Ride & Stride', Saturday 11th September St Wystan's News Brick Banner Tea Party, Saturday 11th September St Wystan's Church 'Quiet Garden' Repton M.U. St Wystan's History It started with a Marriage St Saviour's News Foremark Church needs your Help: Gift Day, Sunday 10th October St Mary's News Newton Solney Harvest Celebrations Zero to Hero! Repton Village Show, Saturday 4th September Newton Solney Show, Saturday 4th September Brick Banner Tea Party, Saturday 11th September Repton School Concert: The Carducci Quartet, Wednesday 15th September Coffee Morning, Thursday 16th September Repton School Concert: Paul Hale, Sunday 19th September MacMillan Coffee Morning, Saturday 25th September St Wystan's Church Harvest Supper, Saturday 25th September Global Wining Evening, Saturday 9th October St Mary's Church Harvest Lunch, Sunday 10th October Thankyou Raymond Prince Charities Macmillan Cancer Support Environment Matters Rhubarb Farm You and your Pet The dog that will eat anything! Neighbourhood Watch Repton Village and History Repton Casuals, Ball Skills Cubs Reborn Repton Neighbourhood Help Scottish Dancing Another Evening with Mervyn Stutter, Saturday 6th November MusSoc: 'Elijah', Sunday 28th November Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society Repton W.I. Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney W.I. Gardening Notes Sam Beeton: Letter from Madagascar

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Come and See!

Dear Friends,

Writing in the introduction of his Pilgrim Guide to Tewksbury Abbey, Michael Tavinor says: "Pilgrimage is an important part of the Christian faith, putting us in touch with our roots."

By the time you read this, 50 of us will be on our way to Oberammergau in a party that I am leading. Some may see themselves as pilgrims, others may not; pilgrimage has its antagonists as well as its protagonists. The great Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, for instance, saw pilgrimage as an excuse for 'gadding about'.

St Barnard and others like him, according to Tavinor, saw the benefits of pilgrimage not necessarily in making a long journey, but in being open to the spiritual on one's doorstep. Tavinor's guide book is about finding God in the building, about making connections between what can be seen in stone and one's faith in Christ.

St Wystan's is not as much visited as Tewkesbury Abbey but it is nevertheless well visited and a pilgrim's guide is probably long overdue.

The present visitor will see that the building itself is also on a journey. Work on Phase 1 of the development will be complete by the end of August. Richard Jones and Jane Campbell were the first couple to be married through the new glazed inner porch doors. The waxed oak woodwork blends in so well with the stonework that many commented on Sunday morning that the new doors with their view into and out of the church appear as if they had always been there.

You would be most welcome to look round at any time. You would be especially welcome to the Brick Banner Tea Party on 11th September, when our patron, Bishop Humphrey, will dedicate the banner and officially 'open' Phase 1 of the development.

No doubt there will be mixed opinions for, as Michael Tavinor reminds his readers, "the claims of conservation and the importance of the past must be balanced carefully with the flexibility and change needed in a living church. It is never an easy balance to achieve." When the P.C.C. applied for the present faculty, they believed that this balance would be achieved.

This is a vision for the ongoing growth and development of this fine church, which belongs not to any one of us but to God. I trust that it will continue to be a powerhouse of prayer, and serve its community in the future as well as it has in the past.

With prayers and best wishes,

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

'Back to Church Sunday' and Harvest Festival, St Wystan's Church, Sunday 26th September

If you used to worship - perhaps many years ago - but have rather lost the habit, we are inviting you to come, join us and 'test the water again' on so-called 'Back to Church Sunday', which we are arranging at St Wystan's to coincide with our Harvest Festival service.

The service is at 9.45am and will last no more than an hour. It will include well-known harvest hymns, readings, prayers and an 'all-age' address; children will be thoroughly involved. We hope you will find it attractive and, of course, will stay on for (free) refreshments afterwards and meet members of the church.

Other Services

On 1st September, the Wednesday morning service of Holy Communion will be at St Mary's, Newton Solney; St Wystan's will be taken over that day by the Children's Holiday Club, Zero to Hero.

At St Wystan's there will be no service of Matins on the 5th September. The next Service of Prayer for Christian Healing will be on the 15th September.

Groups

The 'Prayer for Healing and Intercession' Group meets at the vicarage on Monday 13th September.

The 'Living the Word' Group meets on Thursday 30th September at the vicarage.

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Service of Prayer for Christian Healing
St Wystan's Church, Wednesday 15th September at 7.30 pm

This short service of well-known hymns, prayers, reading and an address includes a time of ministry with laying-on of hands and anointing with oil and is followed by refreshments in the church.

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St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

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Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

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Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

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Brasses (contact 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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Service to inaugurate the new Derby District of the United Reformed Church
Saturday 4th September at 11 am at Carlton Road U.R.C., Derby

Everyone is welcome at this service, when the two U.R.C. ministers will be inducted to lead a team ministry in Derby. Brian Norris will be in charge of Repton, Mackworth, Carlton Road and Alvaston Churches; David Downing will be in charge of Central, Chaddesden, and will join the University Chaplaincy team. The service will be followed by refreshments.

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Picnic at Rosliston Forestry Centre, Sunday 5th September

Bring your picnic and dress for the outdoors! After the picnic, go for a walk, play games, or bask in the sun!

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Coffee Morning and Rural Churches Ride & Stride
Saturday 11th September at 10.30 am

The new season of coffee mornings begins with a bang, when we welcome walkers and riders who will be sponsored to raise money for the Rural Churches Preservation Fund. All the usual delights will be on sale - home-made cakes and marmalade, Webb Ivory cards and stationery, and the children's game - and jacket potato lunches will be served between noon and 1 pm. Don't miss it!

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Harvest Festival Services, Sunday 26th September

Come and celebrate with us the bounty of the harvest. In the morning at 11am, the children will bring their harvest baskets and take part in the service, and the evening will feature all your favourite harvest hymns.

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Shell (age 7+)

. . . recommences on Monday 13th September at 6.30 pm. New members are welcome.

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Derbyshire Police Constabulary Choir

. . . will give a concert in the U.R.C. on Friday 19th November at 7.30 pm. Book the date; tickets will be on sale soon.

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Marriages

Jon Michael Stewart Deeley and Charlotte Emily May were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 24th July.

Christopher Leslie Gawn and Antonia Alice Wimbush were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 31st July.

Richard Andrew Jones and Jane Emily Campbell were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 14th August.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

John Raymond Prince of Askew Grove, Repton, died on Saturday 17th July aged 78. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 28th July was followed by cremation.

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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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Derby Diocese

The Dean of Derby

The Rev'd Canon Dr. John Davies, whose appointment as Dean of Derby was described in last month's Parish Magazine, will be inducted at a service in Derby Cathedral on Saturday 9th October.

Many of you will have come across Dr. Davies in his previous role as a popular vicar of Melbourne, and you are encouraged to attend the service to welcome and support him in taking on his new and challenging position. The service starts at 4 pm. You don't need a ticket.

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A Royal Souvenir

Derby Cathedral has produced a commemorative booklet to commemorate the Queen's Maundy Thursday visit to the city and diocese. It also celebrates in words and pictures the 800th anniversary of the distribution of Maundy monies.

At the same time the Cathedral has produced a CD of the music used in the service. Called 'Derby Cathedral Sings Maundy', the CD features all the great works performed at the service.

The glossy, professionally produced souvenir booklet costs £5 and the CD £10, but the Cathedral is offering both for just £10. Copies are available from Derby Cathedral Centre, 18-19 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3GP; to order by post, call 01332 341201.

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Repton Benefice

Sponsored 'Ride & Stride', Saturday 11th September

Ride & Stride supports the Derbyshire Churches and Chapels Preservation Trust, and benefits us too. All our local churches will be open from 10 am, the URC until 2 pm, the others until 6. For more information please contact Linda Pettitt for the URC, 701223, Pamela Clifford for St Wystan's, 702471, Ann Redfern for St Saviour's, 01332 862350, or Jennifer Haynes for St Mary's, 703827.

In 2009 our churches between them contributed £368 towards the total sponsorship money of £1722.50 earned in the Repton Area. Half of this came back to us for our own churches.

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St Wystan's News

Brick Banner Tea Party, Saturday 11th September
Assemble in church at 3 pm, the unveiling ceremony at 3.15 pm

We are delighted to welcome Bishop Humphrey, the Patron of our Heritage Appeal, to St Wystan's Church for a double celebration and a significant moment in our history, the completion of the Phase 1 Development and the unveiling of the 'Brick Banner'.

We are extremely grateful to everyone who has responded so generously to the appeal, by donations, by attending events, and also by taking part in the 'Brick Banner'. For the latter, the P.C.C. is particularly grateful to Melodie Bordoli, whose idea this was, and who has worked tirelessly on its execution.

Following the ceremony, the Tea Party - tea and cakes - will also be an opportunity for us to thank everyone who has been involved with the appeal, those on the appeal committee, many in the village and many beyond, who have responded so generously over the 18 months that the appeal has been running. We hope that you, together with others of our friends and well-wishers, will be able to join us. If you can, we would be grateful if you could let Karen Perks know, 702392.

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St Wystan's Church 'Quiet Garden'

In 2008, plans for a 'Quiet Garden' opposite the west door of the church were agreed by the Parochial Church Council, but the project was put on hold whilst development was undertaken inside the church.

Our hope is that this small garden, which has been designed to reflect Christ's life on earth, will offer a quiet place for visitors to sit, rest and be refreshed. Volunteers from our community in Repton have offered their services to build the garden, and as the project gets underway more help may be needed.

There are two headstones in the area, one for Flora May Marriott (died 10th January 1922) and John William Marriott (3rd February 1918), and one for Thomas Peach (22nd September 1916). We would very much like to discuss our plans with their families, so if you can point us in their direction, please call me on 703259.

Fundraising has already begun through the sales of teas and cakes at Woodend Cottage Open Gardens for the National Garden Scheme and we are very grateful to all who have supported us in raising £335. In due course, there will be the opportunity to make donations and purchase materials and plants in memory of loved ones. Wendy Longden, Churchwarden, 703259

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Repton M.U.

At the July meeting, members enjoyed a journey in the steps of St Paul. Thanks go to the vicar, and to Andy Austen who provided the illustrations.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 15th September at 2.15 pm at Fisher Close: Sylvia Fox will be giving a talk on David (that's the Biblical David rather than the political one) entitled 'A Quart in a Pint Pot'. Sylvia's Bible Studies are always informative and interesting. Non-members would be welcome - just come along.

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St Wystan's Church

It started with a marriage

Every summer, millions of visitors pour into the county - so much so that the Bishop of Derby has just published a video to welcome them - and a high percentage of them visit our churches. St Wystan's Church visitors' book records visitors in July from Canada, France, Cyprus, Egypt, the Netherlands and Russia, as well as many from all over the United Kingdom. So why do they come here?

There had been humans in Repton long before the birth of Christ; the first traces of human activity date from the mesolithic period, say 4,000 BC, at a time when the River Trent ran close by, and there is evidence of a settlement in Roman times - not very exciting evidence, mainly midden deposits.

However, in 653, Paeda, the son of King Penda of Mercia married Elfleda, the daughter of Oswy, King of Northumbria, an event recorded by Bede that marks the beginning of Repton's recorded history.

From the 7th to the 9th centuries - and possibly as early as the 5th - Repton was the principal residence of the royal family of Mercia. Although the name has survived, few people today have any clear idea of where Mercia was, or how far it extended. There were seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, Mercia, Northumbia, Wessex, East Anglia, Essex, Sussex and Kent. Mercia and Northumbria were the largest. At its height Mercia stretched from Somerset to the Humber, from the Ribble to the Thames, from the fenland to the Welsh mountains. The balance of power fluctuated, but until the Viking invasion, Mercia - alongside Northumbria and Wessex - was always one of the most powerful.

And it seems that the marriage was political, as most royal marriages throughout history. But King Edwin of Northumbria had converted to Christianity in 627, and 25 years later, King Oswy would only allow the marriage of his daughter to Paeda if he were first baptised and received Christian teaching. So Elfleda brought with her four monks from Lindisfarne, introducing Christianity to the midlands. One of the monks was Diuma. In 656, we think, he became the first bishop of Mercia.

If the intention of the marriage was to cement an alliance, it failed. Within 3 years both Penda and Paeda were dead. Sensing a weakness in the Northumbrian kingdom, Penda invaded in 655, but he was defeated, dying in battle. Thereafter Oswy briefly ruled Mercia north of the Trent, appointing Paeda (after whom Peterborough is named) to rule in the south. But Paeda himself is thought to have been murdered by his wife shortly afterwards, at Easter 656.

However, at Repton, Christianity survived.

The origins of the church

There must have been a church here from the start, almost certainly built of wood, and in about 660, Repton Abbey was founded. It was a double monastery - for men and women - with an abbess, who was certainly noble and probably royal.

The earliest part of our present church is the crypt, one of the oldest Anglo-Saxon buildings to survive intact. Pevsner calls it 'one of the most precious survivals of late Saxon architecture in England.' It was constructed in the first half of the 8th century, perhaps as a baptistery. It is sunk into the ground over a spring and drained to the east by a deep stone-built channel. Later it was certainly used as a mausoleum.

We are not sure how many kings were buried in Repton. It is possible that Merewahl, king of the Magonsætan, said to be a son of Penda was buried here in the late 7th century, before the crypt was built. Of the Mercian kings, we know of Ethelbald, who died in 757, and Wiglaf, who died in 840. And, then there was Wystan.

Florence of Worcester relates that, following his murder, Wystan was buried 'in the famous monastery of Repton in the mausoleum of his grandfather Wiglaf'. Miracles took place at his tomb and the church became a place of pilgrimage. Soon Wystan came to be regarded as a saint. By this time the buildings had been considerably developed with multi-coloured window glass, stucco ornamentation, and exceptional stone sculpture in standing crosses and grave covers.

The Vikings

However, in the autumn of 873, after more than two centuries of high status as a royal and religious centre, the life of the community was shattered with the arrival of the Danish Great Army. Led by four 'kings', the four marauding Viking armies not only took over the buildings, but they also destroyed Mercian royal authority. Mercia as an independent kingdom came to an end; the royal family, which had ruled for almost exactly four centuries, fled. The remains of St Wystan were taken away by escaping monks; they were returned to Repton when the Viking menace disappeared, but later, King Cnut (Canute), who reigned from 1016 to 1035, had them removed to Evesham Abbey.

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St Saviour's News

Foremark Church needs your Help
Gift Day, Sunday 10th October

Last year, on the advice of our architect, the P.C.C. took its courage in both hands, applying for and receiving grant aid for essential re-pointing work to the tower battlements, re-laying and replacing the lead roof, some of which is very old and leaking, repairing a crack in the west face of the tower, and other more minor items.

The total cost has been estimated at £52,183. English Heritage has offered a grant of £32,000, but we need to make up the difference. We have applied to several grant-awarding bodies already, but some of them require evidence that local fund-raising has made a contribution. All was going reasonably well until the end of last year when the church suffered two lead thefts within a very short time, only days before a new security system was due to be installed on the roof.

The P.C.C. have therefore had to spend money securing the roof and are currently in negotiation over an alternative to lead. Some might think we should drop the tower work and concentrate on the roof. There are, however, several good reasons not to do so: the grant money cannot be transferred from one project to another; if we lose the grant from English Heritage, it is very unlikely that we would be successful with another application in the present financial climate; if we can complete the work by the spring, we will be eligible for VAT re-imbursement under a scheme which, as a result of government cut-backs, will cease in April 2011.

The P.C.C. have therefore decided to make this local appeal, and will be holding a Gift Day on Sunday 10th October, the day of our Harvest Festival. Envelopes will be going out with this magazine to the villages of Milton, Foremark and Ingleby. Most envelopes will be collected, but if yours hasn't been collected, please bring it to the church for the Gift Day Harvest Festival service at 6.30 pm.

We know that Foremark church has many good friends in all our communities, and would greatly value your support at this time; a gift now will be significantly more valuable than it might be later.

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St Mary's News

Newton Solney Harvest Celebrations

St Mary's Harvest Festival will be celebrated on Sunday 3rd October at 10 am, following Harvest services for Pre-school and Infant School on Friday 1st October at 11.30 am and 2.30 pm respectively.

Decorating the church will begin during the afternoon of Thursday 30th September, from 2.30 pm, and resume on the morning of Saturday 2nd October from 9.30 am. Gifts of produce, flowers and foliage would be welcomed, as would help with the decorating on either day. The produce, dry goods and toiletries will be delivered during the following week to the Padley Centre and the Derby City Mission.

The Harvest Lunch will be on Sunday 10th October. For details, see below.

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Zero to Hero! Tuesday 31st August - Friday 4th September, 10 am - noon in St Wystan's Church and the Vicarage garden Children aged 5-11 Bible discovery, drama, craft, music, games, refreshments and lots of fun! £5 for all four mornings More information from Karen Perks, 702392, or Ruth Attwood, 702804

Repton Village Show Saturday 4th September in Repton Village Hall Staging from 10 to 11.45 am Show opens at 2.30 pm Schedules & entry forms at the Post Office, or the Show on the day

Newton Solney Show Saturday 4th September in Newton Solney Village Hall Hall open from 9 am Exhibits to be entered by 11.45 am and staged by noon Show open to the public from 3 pm. Schedules & entry forms from Chris Freestone, 701147

Brick Banner Tea Party You are warmly invited to the dedication of your Brick Banner by Bishop Humphrey St Wystan's Church, Saturday 11th September at 3 pm Dedication at 3.15 pm followed by tea and cakes RSVP to Karen Perks, 702392

Repton School Concerts Society The Carducci Quartet Wednesday 15th September at 7.45 pm in the Robert Beldam Hall The Carducci Quartet is one of today's most exciting young string quartets, and Repton School is delighted that they have agreed to be the new resident string quartet for this academic year. Their debut performance includes works by Haydn, Shostakovich and Schubert. Tickets for this concert are available at £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). Tickets for the whole season of 12 concerts cost £70. For further information or tickets contact: The Secretary (Sue Parker), 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

Frances & Martin Wimbush invite you to a Coffee Morning Thursday 16th September from 10 am to noon at 27 Chestnut Way, Repton Recipe Swap: please bring 3 or 4 copies of a favourite recipe you are happy to share and swap it with others for 50p a go. £2 including tea/coffee, biscuits, flap-jack, shortbread, etc.

Repton School Concerts Society Paul Hale, organ Sunday 19th September at 7.15 pm in Repton School Chapel Paul Hale is Organist and Rector Chori at Southwell Minster, and has performed in most of the major venues in England as well as appearing on television and radio. He played a vital role in the refurbishment of Repton School's beautiful organ. Tickets for this concert are priced at £5 (no concessions) Tickets for the whole season of 12 concerts cost £70. For further information or tickets contact: The Secretary (Sue Parker), 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

Coffee Morning in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support Saturday 25th September, 10 am – noon 9 The Crescent, Repton Stalls, Bric-a-Brac, Raffle Donations or prizes would be greatly appreciated. Phone Sue Sharratt, 701619, or leave them at the above address.

St Wystan's Church 'Bring & Share' Harvest Supper Repton Village Hall. Saturday 25th September at 7 pm £1. Everyone welcome. Bring your own drink. If you haven't previously been to a Bring & Share, the idea is to bring a dish for 6 for everyone who attends. No tickets, but it does need coordination to make sure we don't end up eating pork pie or chocolate pudding for all three courses! So . . . Ring Carol Lloyd, 702410 for details and to discuss dishes.

Repton Church Heritage Appeal Global Wining Evening Savour wines and food from round the world Saturday 9th October at 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall Wine Quiz and Tasting followed by Supper Bottles of wine for sale Tickets: £12.50 from Carol Lloyd, 01283 702410

St Mary's Church Newton Solney Harvest Lunch Sunday 10th October at 1 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall Adults £7.50             Children under 12 £4.50 Bring your own wine! Tickets from Hazel Ward, 21 Blacksmith's Lane, Newton Solney. t: 701244

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Thankyou

Raymond Prince

Betty, Mary and Terry would like to thank everyone for their kind words and cards following the death of a much loved husband and father. Ray never recovered from the death of Tony late last year, and suffered very ill health over the last months. He has left a big hole in our hearts, but we know he is at peace. Thank you also to those who attended the service on 28 July. Ray will be sadly missed by many in the village.

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Charities

Macmillan Cancer Support

We are all affected by cancer, 822 new cases are diagnosed every day, one in three of us will suffer from it. As treatments improve, more and more people are living with it, currently about 2 million, a figure which is expected to double over the next 30 years.

And they need more than medical help, they also need practical, emotional and financial support. That is where Macmillan comes in, helping with all the things that people affected by cancer want and need.

Macmillan Cancer Support is one of three major charities working with cancer. Cancer Research UK funds and carries out research into new treatments and cures. Marie Curie provides nursing care for the terminally ill in their own homes. Macmillan supports those who are living with cancer in their daily lives, as well as their carers, families and communities.

Macmillan does fund nurses and other health care professionals, and it builds cancer care centres, but its remit extends well beyond. It gives practical support at home, something simple like a handrail perhaps, a lift to hospital, time off for a carer; sometimes a support group will be set up so that people can continue to live in their own home. It gives emotional support, advice, information, and help to negotiate the benefits system. And it can give financial help to cope with the extra costs that cancer often brings, anything from heating bills to travel costs.

At a wider level, Macmillan is a force for change. In April 2009, prescription charges for cancer patients were abolished following a campaign led by Macmillan. It is currently campaigning on fuel poverty, discriminatory insurance policies, and the cost of hospital parking.

All this costs money, over £120 million a year, and almost all of that, 97%, comes from voluntary giving. Of that, a third comes from legacies and some from direct marketing, but nearly half comes from fundraising.

The World's Biggest Coffee Morning

. . . is Macmillan Cancer Support's single biggest fundraiser. It started in 1990, and has generated more than £60 million with simultaneous events all over the country.

In Repton, Sue Sharratt has been running a coffee morning at 9 The Crescent since 1998, raising over £8,300, with more than £1,000 in each of the last two years. This year's event is on Saturday 25th September from 10 am till noon; Sue would greatly welcome your support for this hugely worthwhile cause. In addition, donations or prizes would be much appreciated.

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Environment Matters

Rhubarb Farm

A new initiative in Langwith village on the Notts / Derbyshire border will provide work placements to a wide range of people: the unemployed, ex-offenders, those who suffer from mental ill health or learning difficulties, who have health problems such as obesity or diabetes, or who have been recently discharged from the Forces, particularly those with post traumatic stress disorder.

Growing fresh vegetables and fruit on an 8-acre site, Rhubarb Farm will be the largest producer of organic fruit and vegetables within the area, helping people to realise their potential, building confidence, and preparing them for work. It will also promote the cause of environmental sustainability, running courses on organic horticulture, sustainable structures, and food preparation.

The farm is supported by various bodies including DCC, the local district council, the NFU, and local Rotary clubs, as well as Faith in Action, part of the diocesan Mission and Ministry Team.

Can YOU help?

Aiming to be operational in the autumn, Rhubarb Farm is looking to make its funds go further by scrounging tools such as garden spades and forks - especially the smaller 'border' forks - wellies of all sizes, watering cans, and large water butts. If you can give any of these items, or have other things you think may be useful for growing and sowing, please contact Jennie Street, 0114 236 2302.

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You and your Pet

The dog that will eat anything!

'Bertie' Makin-Wall is a three-year old fox terrier, and a character we have come to know well at our Burton branch.

It was in January that Bertie came to the surgery suffering from sickness, and his owners reported a tendency to scavenge. Despite injections and fluids, his sickness continued and we took Bertie to surgery.

When we opened up his abdomen, we found the problem lay in his small intestine. Lodged there and obstructing all gut flow, was a peach stone that his intestine was trying to pass; the last time there had been any peaches at his home was at a barbeque the previous summer! Bertie recovered and went home the following day, eating well.

It was four months later during a Thursday afternoon surgery that I saw a poorly looking Bertie, a worried Mrs Makin-Wall, and a missing lipstick lid! He was being sick again. On this occasion, knowing his love for all things edible and inedible (in this case a lipstick lid cover), we opened him up again and removed the offending item. Bertie recovered very well again, and everyone is now very careful about leaving things within his reach!

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Neighbourhood Watch

'Safer Neighbourhoods'

A Police Community Support Officer will be out with the mobile library on Tuesday 7th September. On the same day, there is a 'Safer Neighbourhood' meeting in Newton Solney village hall at 6.30 pm.

Vehicle Crime

Over the last five years has fallen steadily in Derby. Recently, however, there has been a sharp rise in the suburbs, and it seems to be spreading out towards the villages.

The common theme is that offenders are walking or cycling through neighbourhoods in the early hours looking for cars that contain valuables. The most common items taken are sat-navs, mobile phones, ipods, power tools, laptops and fishing tackle.

From January to July this year the average monthly value of goods stolen from vehicles was £15,906. Apart from the cost of replacing these items, there is a significant impact on car insurance premiums. There is also a cost to the police - approximately £1,000 per incident. In many neighbourhoods, police are tackling thefts from motor vehicles as a local priority, but they would like our help:

• Lock your car, even if you are only leaving it for a few minutes and can still see it; it only takes a few seconds for someone to reach in and take something.
• Take personal items with you, even if they are worthless - a thief may think you are hiding something more valuable. If you can't take them with you, put them out of sight before you reach your destination.
• Park in busy, well-lit areas.
• Use a garage if you have one.

These steps take little time but they will make it harder for a thief to target you.

Crime Statistics for July

Milton: no report.
Newton Solney: No crimes and no reports of anti-social behaviour.
Repton: 1x theft; 1x criminal damage.

Mobility Aids

A number of companies have been using high pressure sales techniques to sell mobility products to elderly people. Often they have given the impression they are from social or health care agencies, and do not inform buyers properly about their consumer rights.

Unless social or health services have told you they are coming, you are advised to treat them as any other cold callers: use your door chain, check identification, and do not buy unless you are certain that you know who you are dealing with.

If you are suspicious about any doorstep sellers please report them to the police on 0845 123 33 33 or Derbyshire Trading Standards on 0845 404 0506.

Mature Ladies Beware!

Elderly ladies in car parks are being targeted for debit card theft. In all the reported cases they were mature and alone, and had returned to their cars after shopping. Before driving off they were approached by a man carrying a map who needed help to find his destination, and got out of their cars to help him. A few days later they found that their debit cards were missing, as was money from their bank accounts. (Presumably their pin had been obtained previously.) There have been several instances locally, one involving a friend of the editor.

Anti-social Behaviour

In Repton there have been several reports of groups of youths (apparently not local) knocking on doors and throwing stones and bricks at houses late at night. If you experience such behaviour, do not confront them but contact the police immediately.

Remember:

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

Always look out for your elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

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Repton Village & History

Repton Casuals, Ball Skills

. . . restart at Broomhills Lane on Saturday 18th September at 10 am. All children from school year one upwards are welcome. Basic skills are taught with small-sided games in a safe and friendly environment. Refreshments are available, there are toilets and plenty of space to park. For further information, please phone Bob Errington, 701183, or Dave Jacobs, 701361.

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Cubs Reborn

The 1st Repton Cub Pack will be starting up again on Wednesday 3rd November, and we will be meeting during term-time from 6.15 - 7.45 pm at The Den, Mitre Drive. Boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 10½ are welcome. Every week there will be loads of fun activities such as canoeing, cooking, orienteering, camping, and games. There is a small fee of £2.50 per week payable termly in advance.

For all enquiries please contact Aimee Brooks, 07973 866921.

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Repton Neighbourhood Help

In August, members enjoyed our summer outing to the Peak Village Outlet.

In September our regular lunches begin again in the Community Centre, starting on Friday 10th September at 12.30 pm. New members are always welcome.

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Scottish Dancing

We will be starting again after the summer on Monday 27th September. Do come and join us! We are a small friendly group who enjoy the challenge of dancing some of the more familiar Scottish reels. It is good fun, good exercise, and all you need is a pair of soft shoes (not trainers) and a sense of humour.

We meet at 7.15 pm on the last Monday of each month in Repton village hall. Cost £2 per person.

For further information, please contact Frances Wimbush, 703180.

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Another Evening with Mervyn Stutter
Repton Village Hall, Saturday 6th November

Armed with a guitar, a fast wit and silly humour, the star of the Radio 4 comedy 'Getting Nowhere Fast' was a huge success on his last appearance in Repton in February 2009. He is a warm and funny performer, totally at home with an audience keen for a bit of participation, and we confidently expect another wonderful evening.

Book the date in your diary now. Tickets will be on sale in October. In support of Repton village hall.

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MusSoc: 'Elijah', Sunday 28th November

Repton School Music Society (MusSoc) will re-form this term to rehearse Mendelssohn's 'Elijah' for a performance in Pears School in November under the direction of John Bowley, Director of Music at Repton School. Following last year's excellent 'Messiah', we hope that even more members of the village and their friends will get involved.

Mendelssohn was one of the 19th century's greatest composers, and 'Elijah' has been described as 'the most dramatic oratorio ever written'.

Rehearsals for the choir will be on Thursdays from 6.30 to 7.30 pm in Pears School, and for the orchestra on Wednesday evenings from 6.20 to 7.20 pm in the Music School. Anyone who is interested in singing in the choir or playing in the orchestra should contact Morag Hill, 702799.

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Repton Village History Group

In August we met at Mount St Bernard's Abbey, near Coalville. In an excellent talk the Abbot explained the history of the Abbey and why it is on this site. He also gave us an insight into the life and work of the monks. We had an opportunity to look round the grounds and to visit their extensively stocked shop.

Tuesday 21st September: 'The Napoleonic Prisoners of War at Ashby'

Our winter meeting programme commences with an illustrated talk by Ken Hillier. Visitors are welcome; members £2, visitors £3.

Another date for your diaries is Tuesday 19th October when Mike Tong will give an illustrated talk about the history of Elvaston Castle.

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Repton Village Society

During the alterations to the road layout at Robin's Cross, the daffodil bulbs planted by the Society were dug up. We have contacted Derbyshire County Council and are pleased to report that they have agreed to replace them this autumn.

Thursday 2nd September: 'Bats'

Kevin Reynolds, a long standing member of the Staffordshire Bat Group, will be talking about these fascinating mammals. The group monitors roosts, looks after sick and injured bats, and offers advice on care and protection.

Saturday 11th September: Coach Trip to Liverpool

Non members welcome. Some seats at £14 are still available from Alan Webster.

The coach leaves Repton at 8am for the Albert Dock at Liverpool where, after coffee, a Blue Badge guide will be on board for a two hour tour of the city, stopping at appropriate points before returning to the dock by lunchtime. The afternoon is free, perhaps to take a trip on the Mersey Ferry or to explore the city further; maps will be provided and all major places of interest are within walking distance.

Alternatively you may prefer to visit the attractions at the dock, which is surrounded by very well restored warehouses - the largest collection of grade 1 listed buildings in the UK, housing Tate Liverpool, Merseyside Maritime Museum, the International Museum of Slavery, the Beatles Story, and many shops, coffee shops and restaurants.

The coach leaves Liverpool at 4.30 pm.

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Repton W.I.

The August Garden Meeting took place in lovely sunshine. We were able to enjoy the flower borders with the garden owner before settling down for tea, cake and a chat in a beautiful setting.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 14th September, 7.15 pm in the village hall: Captain Jolyon Maclaine on 'The Ups and Downs of a Helicopter Pilot'. There will be a harvest and produce stall.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

A monthly newsletter covering issues from Repton Parish Council.

• Meeting: Being August there has been no meeting of the Parish Council.
• Well Lane Footpath: Forms for the designation of Well Lane as a pedestrian right of way have now been completed and forwarded to Derbyshire County Council. They will ensure that the correct legal process is followed and all landowners contacted. The process is likely to take a number of months.
• Vehicle Activated Sign: The sign in Burton Road is currently out of operation for the second time in two months. Derbyshire County Council is asking the installers to rectify the problem. Hopefully they will sort it out soon.
• Japanese Knotweed has been reported growing on derelict land in Repton. Japanese knotweed is the most invasive non-native plant in Britain and can cause major structural damage. It can be spread very easily: a fragment as small as a fingernail can start a new plant; also it is difficult to eradicate. Advice from the Environment Agency is that Japanese knotweed is not a 'notifiable weed'. In view of the damage it can do, this is perhaps surprising, but it means that the Agency is not responsible for controlling its growth on private land, and has no power to require landowners to remove it. Allowing Japanese knotweed to spread onto other people's property may be regarded as a private nuisance under common law. If and when the affected land is redeveloped, good site management will be essential to ensure that all traces are disposed of in accordance with the Environment Agency code of practice. Details of how to identify and deal with Japanese knotweed can be found by using the search facility on www.environment-agency.gov.uk.

Next meeting: Monday 13th September at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall, preceded by the September Parish Meeting at 7 pm. Planning applications will be available beforehand.

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

At our July meeting, Val Shelton gave a very informative talk about her work with the Derbyshire Children's Home in Skegness. Vivien Taylor from Ticknall W.I. also came along to tell members about her visit to the National Council meeting at Cardiff.

Many of our members took part in the W.I. Triathlon during June and July. Between us we walked many miles, swam many lengths, and just a few of us did the cycling part of the W.I. TRI along the Tissington trail.

On a warm day in mid-August, 18 Milton W.I. members and guests had a lovely visit to Repton School, where Paul Stevens, the school librarian, took us behind the scenes. After that we headed off to the Swan in Milton for a delicious buffet lunch.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 15th September at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall: Ann Bailey will speak on 'Pixie Hoods and Siren Suits'.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

We are looking forward to the start of the autumn season after our summer break. New members are always welcome.

Tuesday 7th September at 2.30 pm

Social meeting. Rick Vine will give a talk and demonstration by a government sniffer dog.

Monday 20th September

A trip to Bakewell market. The coach will leave the Unicorn at 9.30 am. Contact Jane on 01283 564520 if you would like to join us; cost £6.

Jane is also taking bookings for our 2011 holiday to Bournemouth on 11th - 15th April. We shall be staying at the Cumberland Hotel. There are a few vacancies still.

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Newton Solney W.I.

With no meeting in August, we like to arrange some social activities for members. Our garden visit to 'Clovermead' at Findern was well attended, even though the weather was unsettled. The garden was composed of a number of interlinking 'rooms', plus ponds, and the borders were well filled with a variety of plants and shrubs, an extremely colourful display. There were vegetables also, and we were able to buy some of these as well as potted plants. Our visit ended with tea and cakes, well out of the rain!

At the end of July, Jo Parfit took an excellent selection of cakes to St Giles Hospice.

Members are looking forward to a barbecue at the president's home on Sunday 22nd August; arrangements are well in hand for a range of food and cooks!

Monthly visits to the Mulberry Rooms begin again on Wednesday 29th September.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 14th September: A gift-wrapping demonstration by Tina Fairweather. Whist Drive: Tuesday 28th September. Both meetings are at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All welcome.

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Gardening Notes

Hardly have we had time to appreciate summer than it is time once again to prepare for winter. Later in the month, make a start on the borders. Once blooms have faded and foliage has turned brown, cut down herbaceous plants, but leave those whose seed or foliage could be beneficial to wildlife. The aim is to keep individual plants in proportion, not allowing overcrowding. Most herbaceous plants need dividing every three to five years.

Finish taking cuttings of tender perennials and other susceptible plants. It is still not too late to take cuttings of pinks.

The main difference between pinks and carnations is size, but many modern varieties seem to be halfway between the two. Pinks share with lilies - and perhaps with roses too - the distinction of having been cultivated for a very long time. The Greeks used them at religious festivals, and the Romans used them in medicines and perfumes. They were grown in the Middle Ages in both monastery and Islamist gardens. By the end of the 17th century there were at least 400 varieties in cultivation.

Clear beds and containers of summer bedding, breaking up and cultivating compacted ground. Add a general fertiliser, and replant with hardy spring plants whilst the soil is still warm.

Lift dahlias and cannas after frost has blackened the foliage, and store them in a fairly dry, frost-free place. When bringing tender plants indoors for the winter, look out for and deal with any pests or diseases. Check chrysanthemums for white rust.

With the exception of Christmas cacti, stop watering cacti and succulents until next spring.

Vine weevil grubs hatch in September and begin eating plant roots. Apply nematode biological control to containers indoors and out.

Plant daffodils by mid-September to ensure a good show next spring. Plant prepared hyacinth bulbs in pots or bowls for display at Christmas.

Sow sweet peas in a cold frame or greenhouse.

Keep camellias and rhododendrons well watered to ensure good bud formation. Trim young lavenders hard to encourage bushiness. Older lavenders will not regrow from old wood, so trim them lightly. Hedges may need a final cut.

Lift onions if they were not ready in August, and - if possible - leave to dry in the sun. Cut back and pot up a few herbs such as parsley, mint and basil to keep on a sunny windowsill or in a warm greenhouse for use during the winter.

Cut down asparagus foliage and mulch the bed with organic matter. Sow broad beans, turnips, oriental vegetables and salads, and overwintering onions. Winter lettuce will do better in a cold frame. Plant garlic cloves and spring cabbage.

Thin out oxygenating plants in ponds, and remove dead waterlily leaves. Cover the pond with a net to stop leaves falling in.

September is a good time to sow new lawns and patch old ones. Established lawns may need thoroughly raking with a spring tined rake to remove thatch, the dense layer of moss and grass clippings that has accumulated over the year. This will allow water and nutrients to reach the grass roots. Spiking with a garden fork or aerator may also be necessary if drainage is poor. Then brush in a top dressing. You can buy it ready made up or make it yourself; mix six parts of sharp sand, three of sieved soil and one of garden compost, to which you could apply autumn lawn feed, and you will be ready for the Open Gardens next year!

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Sam Beeton

At Evensong following the Benefice picnic at the end of August, the preacher was Sam Beeton on a welcome visit from Madagascar.

At the end of the year, Sam and his wife, Violette, come to the end of their placement as USPG Mission Companions in Madagascar, where Sam is a tutor at St Paul's theological college in the capital, Antananarivo, training much-needed clergy. At present, four students from across Madagascar are studying for MA degrees with help from USPG. However, the college has limited resources, so for 20 years now the college has had a working relationship with a local catholic seminary.

Ecumenism is central to the approach of the Anglican Church in Madagascar, a member of the Malagasy Council of Churches, which encourages Churches to work together for peace and reconciliation, and Anglicans are also working alongside the Reformed Churches.

Christianity is an influential factor in Malagasy culture, and it is hoped that, through training new clergy and lay leaders, St Paul's is helping to encourage a deeper knowledge of God and the Church.

Violette, meanwhile, manages a community centre, and has been introducing new services including agricultural training, bee keeping, and training in sewing and tailoring - services which will help communities to boost harvests or income. The centre also provides a base for church meetings and post-ordination training workshops.

All of this is taking place against a background of political turmoil. Following a coup in March 2009, a new interim government has been diplomatically isolated by world governments, with the significant exception of France. Now it looks as if international sanctions are beginning to have an impact: the African Union has already imposed sanctions, the European Union looks set to follow, and the Americans have withdrawn tax free status on Malagasy exports, so many factories have had to shut down. The government was running out of money, but has been thrown a lifeline by the Chinese, who paid $500 million dollars to buy an iron ore mine in Soalala.

St Wystan's Church supports Sam, who teaches at St Paul's Theological College in Antananarivo, the key training centre for the church of Madagascar. To support him, or the work of the USPG generally, visit www.uspg.org.uk, email enquiries@uspg.org.uk, or ring 020 7803 3422.