June 2011 - Contents A Time for Silence 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 Fathers' Day, Sunday 19th June Coffee morning, Saturday 11th June Open Gardens Afternoon and Gift Day, Saturday 25th June Shell (age 7+) Dates for your Summer Diaries Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Charlotte Dorothy Eastwood Harriet Kate Eastwood Archie David Gamble Amelia Linda White Marriages Richard William Frederick Steele and Holly Louise Joyce Funerals and Burial of Ashes Thomas Reginald Banks Gladys May Astle Cyril Smith Ronald John Smart David Michael Wilson Obituaries Thomas Reginald Banks Cyril Smith The Memorial Book Repton Benefice June Scott's Ordination, Sunday 3rd July St Wystan's News Friday Luncheon Club Leader Repton M.U. Lunch in St Wystan's Church, Wednesday 1st June RBL Juniors Jumble Sale, Saturday 4th June Repton School Concert, Wednesday 8th June The Betjeman Society - Open Meeting, Saturday 18th June Repton School Concert, Sunday 19th June An Evening of Wine and Music, Friday 24th June Edward's Fun Quiz, Friday 24th June Newton Solney School Summer Food Fayre, Saturday 2nd July Thankyou Gladys Astle David Michael Wilson Environment Matters If you've read it, swap it! You and your Pet Monsters inside your Pet Willington Surgery Patient Participation Group Summer Event, Saturday 11th June Patient Participation Group AGM, Thursday 16th June Repton Village and History Car Crash in the High Street The Betjeman Society Open Meeting, Saturday 18th June Tai Chi, Village Games Repton W.I. Repton Village History Group Repton Open Gardens, Friday 24th - Sunday 26th June Repton Beavers Repton Cubs Repton Pre-school The Repton Runners Repton School 400 Hall and Science Priory ngs Open Garden, Sunday 5th June Unwanted Coins Repton Village Party Thank you, Repton! Repton's Royal Wedding Celebrations Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton Open Gardens, Sunday 12th June Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School Newton Close Royal Wedding Street Party Newton Solney Tuesday Club Spring Lunch & Quiz, St Mary's Church Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Gardening Notes

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A Time for Silence

Dear Friends,

In early May I went on a silent retreat for three days at Wirlow Grange near Sheffield. You may well ask, why go away somewhere and not speak to anybody for 48 hours, particularly at meal times? Others asked me whether I could be silent for that long!

In the modern world we are bombarded with images and sounds. I start my car and the radio comes on automatically, there is background music in the supermarket, in the street I can create my own 'space' by playing an iPod. It is as though we are afraid of silence.

Recently, there have been a number of very interesting programmes on television following groups of people going to a religious community and spending several days in silence. The most recent, 'The Big Silence', recorded the experience of five people spending two weeks in silence. There was rebellion, anger, frustration, but in the end a deeper understanding of themselves and of God.

The Abbot of Worth, Fr. Christopher Jameson, who oversaw the people's experience said: "At the centre of the Christian tradition of contemplation is silence. Silence is the gateway to knowing God and to truly knowing ourselves. When we enter regularly into silence, we start to see things with greater clarity. I come in touch with the part of myself which is the deepest part, my soul."

My recent experience has helped me to come to terms with some issues which have been 'rumbling on' for a long time. The stillness helped me to listen to myself and to listen to God. So much of our prayer in the Christian Church is about telling God what we want and not listening to what he wants. I am told that we were given one mouth and two ears, so we should listen twice as much as we speak. It is the same in prayer.

As for the people in 'The Big Silence', the difficulty is to build silence into our daily lives. It is too easy to wake up and think about all the jobs we need to do, rushing from one job to the next without spending time 'centring' ourselves, being still, listening to our inner selves rather than the noises around us.

I pray that you too will begin to make time for silence, and through it find your deepest self and God.

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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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Fathers' Day, Sunday 19th June at 11 am

The Sunday when we celebrate the love of our father - earthly and heavenly. Come and join us in the family worship, when all of the men will receive a gift from the children.

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Coffee morning, Saturday 11th June, 10.30 - 11.30 am

Your last chance to stock up on home-made cakes and marmalade before the summer break! Join old friends for a chat over a cup of coffee, and play the children's game.

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Open Gardens Afternoon and Gift Day, Saturday 25th June, 3 - 5 pm

This year we plan to start work on the refurbishment of the schoolroom, and to put up a glass porch to replace the old corrugated iron structure outside the entrance. This is a major project, and we are applying for grants from various sources, but we need all of our friends in the village to help us raise the money as well. Please bring a gift to help us make the church and schoolroom warmer and more comfortable places; leave it in the church during the afternoon and enjoy a cream tea as well!

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Shell (age 7+)

. . . meets on Mondays from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. New members are very welcome.

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Dates for your Summer Diaries

Saturday 9th July: The Church Family Barbecue will be held at 5 Monsom Lane, with a bouncy castle and games for children and adults too! Tickets from church members soon.

Friday 22nd July: Summer Puddings Evening at Fisher Close;

Sunday 4th September: Church Picnic after a short morning service.

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Baptisms

Harriet Kate Eastwood, daughter of Hugh and Catherine of Vine Cottage, Trent Lane, Newton Solney, was baptised at St Mary's Church on Sunday 1st May.

Charlotte Dorothy Eastwood, daughter of Hugh and Catherine of Vine Cottage, Trent Lane, Newton Solney, was baptised at St Mary's Church on Sunday 1st May.

Amelia Linda White, daughter of Ashley and Victoria of 10 Longlands, Repton, was baptised at St Mary's Church on Sunday 1st May.

Archie David Gamble, son of Paul and Davinia of 17 Kyle Road, Hilton was baptised at St Mary's Church on Sunday 1st May.

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Marriages

Richard William Frederick Steele and Holly Louise Joyce were married at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, on Saturday 30th April.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

The ashes of Thomas Reginald Banks, who died on 3rd April, were interred at Foremark Church on Thursday 12th May.

Gladys May Astle of Repton died on Monday 11th April aged 89. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 18th April was followed by burial at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

Cyril Smith of Repton died on Tuesday 19th April aged 96. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 5th May was followed by cremation at Bretby Crematorium.

Ronald John Smart of Willington died on Friday 22nd April aged 85. A funeral service at St Michael and All Angels, Willington, on Monday 9th May was followed by cremation at Bretby Crematorium.

David Michael Wilson of Repton died on Sunday 1st May aged 63. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 13th May was followed by cremation.

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Obituaries

Reginald Thomas Banks
9th September 1918 - 3rd April 2011

One of six children, Reg was born in Longton. Even though he spent most of his life here in Derbyshire, his heart remained in the Potteries.

Early in the war, as part of his military training, Reg came to Foremarke Hall, before serving with the Royal Artillery in France, where he was wounded. After that he always refused to holiday in France, remarking that the only time he was there, he was shot!

It was during his time at Foremarke that Reg met Barbara Atherley, a local girl from Ingleby. They married in 1940, and together had four children.

Before the war, Reg had trained as a joiner, and afterwards he had a very successful career as a popular, self-employed builder, working on many local buildings. In the early 1950s he acquired a large plot of land at the top of Springfield Road, where he built a pair of semis and a detached house; in 1956 the latter became the new family home. Except for a brief spell in Findern, they were to spend the rest of their lives in Repton.

As the children grew up, both Reg and Barbara both took an active interest in the Repton Royal British Legion, for which Reg worked tirelessly for 28 years, many of them as Club Secretary and then Chairman. After his retirement, they also threw themselves into the Evergreens, where Reg was first Secretary and then President.

Reg and Barbara liked to spend their annual holidays in North Wales in Barmouth, where Reg enjoyed running the bar of their holiday hotel. However, it was within hours of returning home from a holiday there in 1998 that Barbara passed away after 58 years of happy marriage.

In his later years Reg loved gardening and watching sport, particularly horse-racing. For the last two years he was housebound, and following a fall last September, he was admitted to hospital, where he remained until his death.

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Cyril Smith
3rd July 1914 - 19th April 2011

Little is known about Cyril's early life, but one particular glimpse into his childhood sheds light on the man, and the times in which he grew up. From the age of seven, Cyril's regular Sunday routine entailed a 2½ mile walk from his home in Woodville to Blackfordby, where he sang in the church choir, followed by 1½ mile walk to Boothorpe, where he had lunch with his Granny. He then walked back to church for afternoon Sunday School, back to his Granny's for tea, and back to church for Evensong. He then had the 2½ mile walk home.

Cyril attended Ashby Grammar School, where a science teacher wrote: "His kind and cheerful disposition has won him a profound respect from all with whom he came into contact." It was a perceptive judgement that all would echo.

On leaving school, Cyril worked for T. G. Green, initially in the offices, but at 24 he was appointed a company representative. When his career was interrupted by the war, he joined the 7th Leicestershire Regiment. After eighteen months he was transferred to a Royal Army Service Corps transport company, where he served as Company Quartermaster Sergeant for what became known as 39 Beach Group. It was with them that he landed on D-Day on Sword beach at St Leon-sur-Mer in Normandy, losing his hearing during the barrage.

Demobbed in 1946, Cyril returned to T.G. Green for another 6 years before embarking on a new career in social work. Through hard work, qualifications and rapid promotion, he rose from Education Welfare Officer in 1952 to Social Work advisor in 1973, and it was in this capacity that he served until his retirement in 1979. However, this wasn't the end of Cyril's working life, as he then had six happy years as manager of Repton School shop.

In 1960 Cyril met Pamela Tunnedine in Burton New Street General Infirmary, where she was the almoner. Shortly afterwards, Pam was appointed Head Almoner at Crumpsall Hospital in Manchester, and their long distance courtship, sustained by regular walks in Dovedale, continued for three years while Cyril was looking after his parents, both in very poor health. In 1963, however, he and Pam were able to marry and move into Thackers, a cottage near Nether Hall; a move to Burton Road followed in the 1970s.

The year following their marriage was particularly difficult. In the space of just three months, Cyril and Pam lost their first child, a son, aged just two months, and then Cyril's parents both died. But then as Cyril himself expressed it, "our sorrows turned to joy with the birth of Katie in 1967 and again with Jonathan in 1970".

Outside work, Cyril was a very competent pianist and organist, a keen sportsman playing hockey and tennis competitively, a thespian, a compendium of information on local history, and a very knowledgeable gardener.

Throughout his life, Cyril's religion was particularly important to him. At 16 he became the Sunday School registrar and pianist, and later the church organist. From the earliest days of their marriage, Cyril and Pam worshipped at Repton, and for over 50 years they both played a major part in the life of the St Wystan's Church. Cyril was churchwarden from 1969 to 1981, he was a faithful communicant and assisted in services. When Pam later became churchwarden, he supported her, as he did when she set up and for many years ran Repton Neighbourhood Help and the Friday Luncheon Club. But Cyril will be particularly remembered for his reading of the lesson on Remembrance Sunday. It was not simply what the occasion meant to him - the friends that he had lost through war; Cyril read the Bible as he did because he believed the message. For him it wasn't just great literature.

In 2010 Cyril was chosen to represent St Wystan's at the Royal Maundy ceremony at Derby Cathedral. It was a very moving occasion, and one that gave Cyril great pride.

Cyril was devoted to Pam, and throughout the years of her illness, looked after her with loyalty and devotion. After her death three years ago, Cyril maintained his independence right up to the last two weeks of his life, but following a severe heart attack, he was taken to the Royal Derby Hospital where he died.

Although in many ways a private man, Cyril was always very interested in other people and their stories. He was kind, loyal, modest and friendly, the truest gentleman. His life was a model of service to others, and central to that was his Christian discipleship. There was a deep well of faith that sustained him through the horrors of warfare and through tragedies in his personal life. We are grateful to God for all He accomplished through this quietly faithful and truly honourable man.

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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

June Scott's Ordination, Derby Cathedral, Sunday 3rd July at 10.45 am

For the last year, June Scott, one of our Readers, has been preparing for ordination. To encourage as many as possible to attend the service and support her, Newton Solney PCC has agreed to cancel its own morning service on that day.

Stuart Webb, the churchwarden, is arranging a coach. To book a place, please contact him on 01283 563345.

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St Wystan's News

Friday Luncheon Club Leader

We need a new leader for the Friday Luncheon Club and Drop-in Afternoon at Fisher Close Community Room. The Club provides a place to meet and chat, as well as a full cooked meal, for up to 20 elderly but independent people. There is a full rota of helpers and cooks, but we do need someone to front the day and to organise activities and outings.

To reduce the commitment, the job could be shared, as it is at present.

If you would like to know more about this rewarding voluntary work, please telephone Melodie Bordoli on 01283 212652, or Peter Paine, 703317.

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Repton M.U.

At the May meeting the usual short service was followed by a talk about English Parsonages. The speaker explained the historic difference between a rectory and a vicarage, describing how the homes of the clergy had developed from rooms over the church porch to residences suitable for the second sons of gentry, and then to spacious accommodation for a Victorian family with servants.

Then she told us about the two vicarages she had lived in. The first had bells, so that her husband could ring for coffee from the study! The purpose of the bell in the bathroom was less obvious! The second vicarage was more modern, and its central heating was much appreciated.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 15th June. A visit to Alrewas Church, arriving there at 2.30 pm. Bellringers are invited to come along and add the tower to their lists. Lifts are being arranged.

Lunch in St Wystan's Church Wednesday 1st June from 12.30 to 1.30 pm Come and join us on the first Wednesday of every month for lunch and a chat. Homemade soup, bread and cheese followed by coffee. £4. Open to the whole community. Do come!

RBL Juniors Jumble Sale Saturday 4th June, 1.30 - 4.30 pm Repton Village Hall including children's clothes, toys, books, nursery equipment and maternity wear Admission 20p Refreshments on sale. Any jumble donations to Karen 704602 or Nicky 704571

Repton School Concerts Society Peter Stones, trombone, Steve Pepper, trumpet Wednesday 8th June at 7.45 pm in the Robert Beldam Hall The Society is delighted to welcome these two young performers at the start of their careers. They are both involved with jazz and brass chamber groups including the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. Tonight's programme will include works by Schumann, Arban ('Carnival of Venice') and Kenny Baker. For tickets, £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions), or information contact the Secretary (Sue Parker), 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

The Shires Branch The Betjeman Society - Open Meeting Repton Village Hall, Saturday 18th June from 2.30 to 4.30 pm • Horace Liberty will talk on John Betjeman's life and work    and about his visits to Repton School and Foremark • Readings of John Betjeman's poetry • Video footage £3 including tea / coffee and cake, payable at the door from 2.15 pm

Repton School Concerts Society Jeremy Rouse, organ Sunday 19th June at 7.15 pm in Repton School Chapel A Fellow of the Royal College of Organists and previously Assistant Director of Music at Repton, Jeremy Rouse is now Assistant Director of Music and Head of Academic Music at Solihull School. This recital will be a real treat - and an opportunity to hear again the wonderful Harrison & Harrison organ in all its glory. £5 (no concessions) : Note the early start! For further information or tickets contact: The Secretary (Sue Parker), 01283 702550 or Repton Music School, 01283 559319

Repton Open Gardens An Evening of Wine and Music Friday 24th June at 6.30 pm in St Wystan's Church Sparkling wine on arrival, a short concert, and a finger buffet to follow with wine available Music by pupils from Foremarke Hall under Susan Bloor Tickets, including free entry to the gardens, £10, children free, from Tom Hyde, 703662 and Carol Lloyd, 702410

Milton Village Hall Edward's Fun Quiz Friday 24th June at 8 pm Tickets, £5, include a light supper, tea and coffee Bring your own tipple! To book a table, please contact Sue White, 701978, or Polly Faulkner, 703436 in aid of Milton Village Hall

Newton Solney School Summer Food Fayre Saturday 2nd July, noon - 2 pm in the school grounds at Trent Lane BBQ lunch, eating games like Hook-a-Sweet, and Eat 3 Crackers in 1 minute. Raffle, Tombola, Cake Stall, Herb Stall, Toys and Books and lots more. The children will also be singing and dancing. Everyone welcome!

Thankyou

Gladys Astle

The family of Gladys Astle would like to thank all friends and neighbours for your cards and messages of sympathy. They were greatly appreciated. Thank you too for all your donations to the Dales, where Gladys enjoyed such excellent care.

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David Michael Wilson

Following the sudden death of my partner, David Michael Wilson, I would like to thank everyone who sent cards and letters. I have been overwhelmed by good wishes and offers of help. It has been a great help living in the village where so many people knew David, who had been here for nearly 40 years. So far, donations to the Parkinsons' Disease Society stand at £750, which is amazing.

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Environment Matters

If you've read it, swap it!

Have you lots of books you've read and don't know what to do with? ReadItSwapIt is a free service which does what it says, and there are over 360,000 books available with many more added each day.

The principle is simple: you find something you like, and you ask to swap; another ReadItSwapIt member chooses something of yours and you exchange. The only difference is that swaps are done over the internet at www.readitswapit.com.

First you select the book that you would like from the library. The person who owns that book receives an email saying that you want to swap. He (or she) logs onto the site and views your list of books. If he finds one that he likes, he will confirm the swap. Of course, he may turn you down. However, if the swap is confirmed, he will be able to see your postal address. At this stage you receive an email confirming the swap, together with the address to which to post the book. When the books are received, each person logs on to confirm he has received the book - and each rates the other in much the same way as on Amazon.

Of course, you could also give your books to a David Roberts for the Open Gardens!

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You and your Pet

Monsters inside your Pet

Have you wormed your pet recently? Of course you have. But just how recently?

Numerous different parasites are present in both man and pet. Parasites co-exist with their hosts, largely remaining undetected and unproblematic. However they can cause serious health problems including diarrhoea, abortion, and - in the case of lungworm - death.

How often to worm?

The RCVS recommends worming every three months. This works differently from flea treatments as the wormer acts on the day it is given. For a dog on a sheep farm, a family pet in a household with a newborn baby, or a cat with a tendency to hunt, then you really should reworm every three months. However for a senior, indoor cat with no access to young children, then every six months is probably sufficient.

Toxoplasma gondii

20% of the UK human population is infected, often via cat faeces, contaminated soil, poorly cooked meats or unwashed vegetables, although cat owners are unlikely to become infected as most cats feed on cat food rather than scavenging! In humans the symptoms - if there are any - resemble mild flu, but can progress to latent toxoplasmosis, which can be a problem in those with a weakened immune system. In women (and sheep!) pregnant for the first time, it can cause abortion and foetal defects.

Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum)

This parasite used only to be seen in Surrey, South Wales and Cornwall but cases have recently been seen in the Midlands. Although it is very rare, it must be taken seriously. It can be prevented by a specific monthly 'spot on' preparation applied to the back of the neck that treats fleas, mange and roundworms. The parasite is initially ingested by a snail, and it is through contact between certain snails and dogs that the parasite is transmitted. There are many different signs including clotting disorders, coughing, and lethargy, although these can be seen with other diseases too. For more information see www.lungworm.co.uk.

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Willington Surgery

Willington Surgery Patient Participation Group Summer Event
Saturday 11th June, 4 - 6 pm at Willington Village Hall

Join us for tea, and meet Heather Wheeler MP at the start of Carers' Week. Receive information for carers and see the plans for the new surgery. Help to ensure that OUR healthcare provision meets YOUR expectations.

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Willington Surgery Patient Participation Group AGM
Thursday 16th June at 7pm at the Old School, Castleway, Willington

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Repton Village & History

Car Crash in the High Street

If you were caught up in the traffic jams which followed the head-on crash on Repton High Street in mid May, I'm sure you would like to thank those volunteers who spent well over two hours re-directing the traffic; it was very public spirited of them.

You will be pleased to hear that Yvonne McComish, Manager of the Dales, who was badly injured in the crash, is now recovering quietly at home. We wish her well.

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The Betjeman Society
Open Meeting, Saturday 18th June

In 'Who's Who', John Betjeman described himself as 'a poet and hack'. Starting his career as a journalist, he ended it as one of the most popular British Poets Laureate and a much-loved figure on British television. When his 'Collected Poems' first appeared in 1958, they made publishing history and have since sold over two and a quarter million copies. Another best seller was his verse autobiography, 'Summoned by Bells'.

But Betjeman was not only a poet. Through his broadcasting and journalism he opened people's eyes to the value of the buildings and landscape around us, and he became Britain's grand champion of our heritage. A much admired statue at St Pancras station reminds us that he was a founding member of the Victorian Society and a passionate defender of Victorian architecture.

In June, the Shires Branch of the Betjeman Society - which draws its members from Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Northampton, and Rutland - is holding a meeting in Repton at which Betjeman's connection with Repton and Foremark will be remembered. You are very warmly invited. Details above.

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Tai Chi Village Games

Following the success of jogging and table tennis, you can now have a go at Tia Chi. It is an ancient Chinese martial art that 'improves balance and coordination, relaxes the mind and lifts the spirit'.

Classes for those aged 20 and over will take place at The Den, Mitre Field, on Tuesdays from 1 to 2 pm, starting on 7th June. They will be led by an expert instructor, and run initially for six weeks, although we hope to be able to roll them out further. Everyone is invited to come along. Alternatively, there is a session between 10 and 11.30 am on Fridays at Willington Village Hall, starting on 10th June. Admission to each class is £3.

For further information, contact Toni Jantschenko, Village games Co-ordinator, on 07909 442996.

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Repton W.I.

Members were entertained at the May meeting by Joe David, a retired Beefeater, with the history of the Tower of London, including some of the more gory details of punishments and executions. The booming voice of this former sergeant-major meant that, for once, the microphone was not needed.

Then we had to vote on the resolutions for the Annual Meeting, and were given more information about the pros and cons of very large farming practices by a retired farmer. The resolution asks the government to refuse permission for very large factory farms, but we were told that planning permission is the responsibility of local authorities.

Arrangements were made for a visit to Shardlow and a garden outing in June.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 14th June at 7.15 pm in the village hall: Unfortunately the speaker has had to cancel and, as we go to print, the new speaker has not been organised. However we are sure to have an enjoyable evening, and visitors are always welcome.

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Repton Village History Group

Danny Wells was the speaker at our April meeting, telling us about the life and work of Joseph Paxton. The lecture was well illustrated and depicted Paxton's amazingly busy life.

Tuesday 21st June from 7.30 pm, Repton Village Hall

On display will be some of our extensive photographic and documentary archives, including much new material. Members and visitors are invited to bring along anything they too would like to display. This is an informal meeting, and there will be plenty of time to chat and reminisce.

This brings our season of indoor events to an end until September, but we have outings to Calke Abbey Riding School (fully booked), and then, on Wednesday 13th July, to St Giles Roman Catholic Church at Cheadle, Staffordshire, a building designed by Pugin. On 17th August we have a visit to the Great Central Railway at Loughborough. Details of these outdoor meetings can be obtained from Alan Thompson on 701130.

Our indoor meeting programme starts again on Tuesday 20th September, when Fiona Ure will talk to us about 'Best Remedies'.

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A Fresh Start! Repton Open Gardens, Friday 24th - Sunday 26th June

An Evening of Wine and Music: Repton Open Gardens will be launched at 6.30 pm on Friday evening with an Evening of Wine and Music in St Wystan's Church. There will be sparkling wine on arrival, a short concert, and a finger buffet to follow; wine will be available. This the first time that such an event has taken place, and we hope for your support. For tickets at £10 - which includes free entry to the gardens - children free, contact Tom Hyde on 703662 or Carol Lloyd on 702410.

The Gardens: On the Saturday and Sunday, fourteen gardens (including four current 'Yellow Book' gardens), as well as Repton Memorial Arboretum, will be open from 2 6 pm. Do note, however, that two of them will only open on the Sunday. Programmes, which also act as entry tickets, will be on sale in the village beforehand, as well as at the church lychgate and in the gardens on the day; adults £3 each, children free.

St Wystan's Church and Children's Trail: Saturday afternoon will start with bell ringing, the organ will play for some of the time, and a children's trail around the church will help you find out all about this beautiful and historic place of worship. There are clues to find and riddles to solve to help you unravel its story.

Scarecrow Trail and Competition: With lots of interest at the Village Party, and prizes for the most entertaining or inventive scarecrows, there will be plenty to entertain you. Contact Ann Clark, 703438, for an entry form.

Childrens' Teddy Bear Treasure Trail Competition: We hope that children will enjoy searching for and identifying the Teddy Bears to be found in most of the gardens. Be sure to collect a competition entry form together with your Open Gardens programme. When it is completed, take it to the Village Hall and exchange it for a lucky dip prize.

Refreshments: On both afternoons, teas will be served in the village hall from 2.30 to 5.30 pm. The U.R.C. will serve cream teas in the schoolroom from 3 to 5 pm on Saturday only.

Stalls: In gardens and at the village hall, there will be a number of stalls, among them a tombola, a plant stall, a bookstall and home produce stalls. Donations for these will be gratefully received, preferably beforehand. (Plants and tombola, Jan Roberts, 702159; books, David Roberts, 702159; home produce such as jams, biscuits, and sweets, Carol Lloyd, 702410.)

Prize Draw: Tickets for the prize draw will be on sale in the village beforehand and over the weekend; the draw will take place on Saturday 23rd July.

The Open Gardens weekend is a major fund-raising event for St Wystan's Church. The money we raise goes entirely towards the cost of keeping the church open and available to all - more than £60,000 a year. We hope that once again you will all join in to make it a real success.

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Repton Beavers
Boys & Girls from 5¾ to 8

Beavers have been learning about the Countryside Code and Fair Trade. The latter was particularly enjoyed, as it involved eating Fair Trade products such as chocolate. We have a visit from the police coming up, and will also be learning more about healthy eating.

More adult helpers are needed to help us run an interesting and enjoyable programme. If you can commit as little as one hour per week and are enthusiastic working with children or could help with special activity for one evening, please contact Mike Knowles on 702217.

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Repton Cubs
Boys & Girls aged 7½ to 10½

Cubs have been learning how to put up tents and build shelters, and have enjoyed testing how waterproof their shelters were. Many of the Cubs made bread twists at the Village Party, together with all the other visitors to our campfire. Coming up we have an evening of archery at Willington, and are going canoeing at Burton Canoe Club.

If your son or daughter would like to try Cubs, please contact Jez or Aimee Brooks on 07973 866921.

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Repton Pre-school

Repton Pre-school is extremely grateful to Toyota, who have provided us with a grant as part of their initiative to support local charities. We have used it to purchase equipment for the children to explore and interact with nature, and to investigate objects and materials. A timely addition for the summer term!

Pre-school Party, Saturday 9th July

Repton Pre-School is a registered charity and your support for our fundraising events is absolutely vital. The main fundraising event is the pre-school party, which this year will be hosted at Foremarke Hall. Please consider if you or your business would be able to donate a gift for the auction. For more information or to buy tickets, please call 01283 221135 between 1 and 3 pm during term time to speak to Karen, the pre-school manager.

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The Repton Runners

Jogging is a fantastic way to get fit! All you need is a pair of trainers, and in a matter of weeks you will feel fitter, lose weight and be more energised! Having said that, if you are starting from the beginning it can be tough, and in the early stages you may wonder why anyone in their right mind would want to run! But if you follow a programme and get some support, you will soon find it easier. And here in Repton, that support is right on your doorstep with The Repton Runners Club! Part of the Jog Derbyshire Project, we have two qualified and insured Jog Leaders and meet at 7.30 pm every Wednesday outside The Red Lion. And with another group of absolute beginners embarking on the Beginners Jogging Course the club continues to grow. To date 72 people have either run with the club or on the Beginners Courses; if we continue to grow at this rate, perhaps we should be considering a Repton Village 5 or 10k road race and Family Fun Run?

To find out more, contact Jo Taylor, 07949 941931, or on Faceboook at The Repton Runners.

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Repton School 400 Hall and Science Priory

Throughout 2010 and well into this year, you will have seen work going on around the 400 Hall. The theatre there has been completely re-designed to offer much greater flexibility and the most up-to-date facilities including: a stalls floor which can be raised or lowered to suit the production - thrust stage, promenade, or in-the-round; adjustable proscenium flaps in place of the old proscenium arch, so that the stage front can easily be made wider or narrower, allowing producers a variety of entrances; a tension wire grid to enable the quick and safe installation and adjustment of the theatre lighting. Externally the only change is the addition of a larger foyer, but this too will give the audience more room, particularly during the interval, and also provides for alternative uses.

The architect was Bryan Avery who in a long career has designed many influential buildings, including the prestigious and highly regarded Vanburgh Theatre at RADA. He also designed the new foyer, with its 3.5 metre high glazed walls and angular, stainless steel roof.

Repton School Science Priory

Following the completion of this work, the school is now turning to its next major project, the Science Priory, to house all the school's science teaching in one building. This will be the first time that a major new teaching facility has been built at the school for over 50 years.

Subject to formal planning approval, the Science Priory will be built on the land above the sports complex, alongside Jeremiah's Walk.

On Tuesday 13th September at 7.30 pm

. . . a presentation to explain the school's plans will be open to members of the public; as the venue will be the 400 Hall, this will also be an opportunity to see the inside of the fabulous new theatre.

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ngs Open Garden Sunday 5th June, 2 - 5.30 pm
Jan and David Roberts, 37 High Street

We are opening our garden once again in aid of the National Gardens Scheme - the Yellow Book. Adults £2.50, accompanying children free. Teas will be available in aid of Repton Church funds, and there will be a plant sale.

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Unwanted Coins

As part of our fundraising for the Poppy Appeal, The Royal British Legion in Repton is now collecting foreign and obsolete coins. So search through your drawers for old coins, and remember us when you return from holidays abroad. Contact the Poppy Appeal organiser, Mike Wilks, on 702540. To date, in Repton and Newton Solney, we have raised over £150.

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Repton Village Party

How lucky we were. After a very wet morning, the weather turned fine, the children's posters ensured a splendid turnout, and a youthful Pied Piper got the afternoon off to a colourful start, leading a procession of lots of children up from the Arch to the Mitre Field.

There a 'fanfare' of Repton School drums opened proceedings, followed by orchestras from Repton Primary and St Wystan's Schools, supported by parents and friends.

Tents, bunting and hundreds of balloons transformed the Den and Mitre Field into a scene of lively jollity and fun, as many hundreds of visitors enjoyed a traditional village party.

The Punch & Judy proved a magnet; the crocodile, policeman, battered baby, a string of sausages - they were all there and extracted just the same responses as they have always done. The steam train too evoked great interest in both young and old.

Children were everywhere. They decorated biscuits, did willow-weaving, made sheep, knitted, painted, made bracelets, joined the campfire, and had their faces painted. Older children played skittles and joined in the five-a-side football and tug-of-war.

Elsewhere, Anglo-Saxon monks and warriors clad them in armour, talked about food and clothing, demonstrated the art of inscription on vellum, and gave a picture of Repton before the Vikings.

Adults were equally busy. The more sedate examined the displays and took part in the quiz, examined photographs of St Wystan's redevelopment, learnt how to willow-weave, bought raffle tickets, and guessed the weight of a beautiful maypole cake.

A large number of vocal supporters watched the inter-pub tug of war. Led by the 'heavy brigades', it pitted pub against pub, neighbour against neighbour, and mum against child.

As befits a May Bank Holiday weekend, the maypole took pride of place. Children from the primary school, wearing brightly coloured costumes, had been practising for weeks beforehand and brilliantly negotiated a number of dances - even if we weren't always quite sure how!

And during all the activity there were continuous queues for ices at one end of the field, and for teas at the other. The Hog Roast, run by Neil Redshaw, along with the home made tea and cakes supplied by the WI, were as popular as ever, and ensured that no one went home hungry.

All credit to Frances Wimbush for her original idea, and to her and an energetic team for realising it so triumphantly. Thank you too to those village organisations and local businesses which gave their support in so many ways. It was a very happy afternoon with something for everyone, an afternoon that showed that the best fun is still that which you make yourself and enjoy with your friends.

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Thank you, Repton!

As the rain fell, and hardy souls erected tents and gazebos, it was difficult to imagine the Mitre Field alive with party-goers the same afternoon. Amazingly, however, the skies cleared, you all came, and we had a nearly perfect afternoon. The only casualties of the weather were the climbing wall and the slack-line, which had both been brought in following requests at the last Village Party for activities for older children and teenagers; unfortunately, neither can be used in the wet.

When the Village Party first started, the main aim was to bring people together from all parts of the village, and it seems that people really enjoyed this opportunity. Even the planning has brought many different groups together.

The Village Party could not happen without the support of a great many people. I extend a huge vote of thanks to them all, and also to our sponsors: Repton Village Society, Repton Parish Council, Derbyshire Community Foundation, Molson Coors, Awbery Management Centre and biDesign.

Here's to the next Village Party on 4th May 2013!

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Repton's Royal Wedding Celebrations

Thank you to everyone who came along and helped to make our Royal Wedding celebrations a great experience for so many people. Something like 200 took part in the Quiz Trail, and there were over 300 who visited the village hall, including lots of support for Stanley's 'sing along'. The three tiers of the wonderful wedding cake, made by Gwen Fern, were won by Mrs. Haywood, Colin Campbell and Kay Dent.

Thank you too to everyone who organised the day - at short notice, and without treading on the toes of the Village Party: Lisa Egan and Helen Islip from St Wystan's School, Linda Shortt, Carol Hickebottom, Wendy Longden, Alan Webster and the Village Society, Repton Enabling Fund, and John Perks who led it all. Also to those who entertained: Stanley Morris, Arthur Tipper and Rebecca Hardy. Let's not forget either to thank St Wystan's School for providing all those lovely cup cakes. Well done all!

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

• Parish Council Elections: Following the election of Parish Councillors for Repton, the following have been elected for the next 4 years: John Shortt (Chairman), Chris Jerram and Carol Lloyd (joint Vice-Chairmen), Richard Bugg, Peter Court, Auriol Cumming, Barbara McArdle, John McGahan, John Perks, Gary Steel and Ewan Thompson.



• Digital Switchover and Switchover Help Scheme: TV is going digital all over the UK and soon the traditional TV signal will be switched off in our area. If you don't have digital TV by the time of the switchover, your TV screen will go blank. Subject to eligibility, the Help Scheme can arrange for an approved installer to supply and install everything needed to switch one of your TV sets to digital. Further details can be found at www.helpscheme.co.uk or by using a free telephone number: 0800 40 85 900.



• Summer Holiday Activities: Following the success of last year's activities, the Parish Council have again organised five activities over the summer holiday period. They will include the climbing wall, wacky sports mobile and the play mobile. We hope they will be well attended and the weather will be kind! Full details will be published next month.



• Thank you to Repton School: The Chairman, John Shortt, thanked Repton School for its excellent work in keeping the centre of the village clear of litter.

Next meeting: Monday 13th June at 7.30 pm in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton.

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Open Gardens Sunday 12th June, 2 - 6 pm

This year Milton will be opening 12 gardens. They are very varied, from courtyard gardens planted in tubs, to six acres - and everything in between. Three are re-opening after a break, so there are new ones to see!

Tea and cakes will be provided in the Village Hall and, as before, we will have a tombola stall - 50 pence a ticket. Profits are for the Air Ambulance. Free parking as always. Come along and spend your afternoon with us, we would love to see you, only £3 per adult - children free - to see all 12 gardens.

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Milton W.I.

President Jane Smith welcomed members to our Resolutions meeting. Following a short business meeting we discussed, debated and voted on the two resolutions about factory farming and library closures. The committee then served members with a delicious supper of steak pie, new potatoes and mushy peas. We rounded off the evening by making small scarecrows from scraps and straw, to be used to decorate the W.I. marquees at this year's County Shows at Elvaston and Bakewell.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 15th June at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall. Our speaker is a representative from The Body shop. This is an open meeting; if you would like to come along you will be made very welcome.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney W.I.

This month's meeting gave our members the opportunity to vote on two proposed resolutions, the proposed closure of a number of public libraries, and opposition to the possible introduction of mega farms to the UK. Lively discussion took place before members were asked to cast their vote. The results will now be sent on to the Derbyshire Federation offices.

We have a visit to Crown Derby on 8th June to see the Titanic exhibition, where displays of china in the original 1911 pattern and artefacts from the Titanic, together with costumes from the film, are on display. The Mulberry Rooms lunch will be on Wednesday 22nd June.

We have obtained tickets to view the Staffordshire Hoard at Lichfield Cathedral on Monday 15th August; members will need to make their own way there.

A small group of members have signed up for the W.I. 'knit 1 pass it on' campaign. They will visit our local school one afternoon a week to share knitting and craft skills with the children there. On Thursday 21st July we will be welcoming a group of ladies from Chesterfield for afternoon tea; volunteers are required to make cakes and help on the day.

The Produce Cup was won by Carol Checketts for her decorated Fabergé-style and character eggs. The evening was enjoyably rounded off with a glass of wine and a slice of wedding cake provided by one of our members who has recently married.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 14th June: Helen Mickie will talk on Hypnotherapy. We will also be asking members to submit their entries for the Craft Cup. Whist Drive: Tuesday 28th June. Both welcome new members. Both are at 7.30 pm in the village hall.

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Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School

Community Collective Worship, Wednesday 6th July at 9.15 am

Everyone is most welcome to join us. Please come along.

Summer Food Fayre, Saturday 2nd July, noon - 2 pm - note the time!

Do join us for our Summer Fayre in the school grounds. This year's theme is food so come for a BBQ lunch, and then have fun with eating games, raffle, tombola, cake stall, herb stall, toys and books and lots more. The children will also sing and dance.

Royal Wedding

The children had a super time re-enacting the Royal Wedding in St Mary's Church. The service was led by the Archbishop (Dylan, Y2). Afterwards we held a street party at school for both children and parents.

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Newton Close Royal Wedding Street Party

Thank you to everyone who supported us, whether by offers of help, by donating prizes for the raffle, or just by turning up. We had a fantastic day and the weather was kind to us - even though we had to gaffer tape the table cloths to stop them blowing away.

I would especially like to thank Charlotte and George Tidy for their sponsorship of the Pinxton Puppets; the children were transfixed by the shows throughout the afternoon, as were the grown-ups. Also, Portmerion for their kind donation of goods for the raffle, and Redshaws Family Butchers, who donated fillings for the children's sandwiches.

We had a great time, and raised £100 for Save the Children - perfect! Here's to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee or possibly the Olympics next year!

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

Our AGM was once again held at Newton Park Hotel, who provided us with a delicious high tea afterwards. Many thanks to Kate and her staff. The meeting was well attended and the present committee re-elected. A new Chairman was appointed and we look forward to Rachael Freeman holding the reins for the coming year. Thanks were expressed to the retiring Chairman, Doug Burns, who was presented with a token from the members for his dedication to the club over the past two years.

Tuesday 7th June, 2.30 pm

Business Meeting, followed by Alan Partington completing his talk on 'A Middle Eastern Journey'.

Tuesday 21st June

A coach outing to Melton Mowbray, picking up at Newton Road, Dalebrook, at 9.15 am, The Unicorn at Newton Solney at 9.30, Repton and Willington, and returning to Newton Solney for 3 pm. £7. To book a seat please contact Jane on 01283 564520.

Tuesday 19th July

We have planned a full day's outing to Strafford-on-Avon, to include an early evening meal on our return journey. If you would like to join us, again please contact Jane.

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Spring Lunch & Quiz, St Mary's Church

Sincere thanks to all who supported the Spring Lunch, and to those who donated raffle prizes and those tempting desserts! It proved to be a most enjoyable occasion.

We also took the opportunity to launch our annual Summer Quiz. The theme this year is 'Favourite Foods'. Copies are available after our church services, from Hazel at 21 Blacksmith's Lane, Newton Solney, and from Hairs and Graces Salon in Willington. For £1 you may be lucky and win £20, when a draw of all correct answers takes place at the Harvest Lunch in October.

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Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

New Council: At the Parish Council meeting in May, the first following the recent election, Fred Hill was elected Chairman and Debbie Smith Vice-Chairman. Thanks were expressed to the retiring Councillors - David Buchanan, Sue Ellis, and Annie Topliss - for all of the work that they have undertaken over the past years.

PA System: The Parish Council has provided the village hall with a PA system, which was used for the first time at the Parish Council Annual Meeting. It will prove invaluable to all future users of the village hall.

Low-Carbon Village Project: The Low Carbon Village Project is an initiative of South Derbyshire District Council and EON to reduce the carbon footprint of the village by encouraging Newton Solney households to insulate cavity walls and loft space. Households have been circulated with a letter from the Parish Council and application forms to enable parishioners to take advantage of the grant being made available by SDDC. An offer not to be missed, and an opportunity to keep your home warmer! Application forms are to be returned to Ron Parker, Clerk to the Parish Council, by 13th June.

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Gardening Notes

A severely cold winter has been followed by an unusually hot and dry spring, and both have brought challenges. By now we have found most of the winter's casualties, and must guard against the effects of spring's drought. When it does rain, plants in full leaf, particularly trees, soon use it up, and little is left to replenish ground water.

As well as this year's plantings - whether trees, shrubs, herbaceous or bedding plants - last year's too must be kept well watered and closely watched throughout the summer. If the ground remains dry, use the contents of an average sized watering can around the roots of each plant, so that the water penetrates deeply. There are no hard and fast rules, but 4 gallons - 19 litres - per square metre is about right. (An inch of rain is about 25 litres m2.) Overhead watering encourages shallow, surface rooting, which makes the plant more susceptible to drought later in the year. If water restrictions are introduced, it is safe to use bath and washing up water, but not water from the washing machine.

Make successional sowings of salads and carrots. When you sow seeds in the vegetable garden, water the ground first, or they will not germinate.

Runner beans can be planted out, as can French beans, courgettes, marrows, tomatoes, sweet corn and other tender crops. Brussels sprouts and winter cabbages can go out too; protect them from pigeons and cabbage white butterfly caterpillars with insect-proof netting. It is worth feeding greedy vegetable crops, especially maincrop potatoes and brassicas; peas and beans, onions and carrots do not generally need it.

Early potatoes should be ready to harvest this month.

In this early spring, most of the bedding plants will have gone out by now, and it should be safe to plant out dahlias. Stake any plants that may need it, and cut back oriental poppies after flowering. Tie in sweet peas, removing tendrils and side shoots to improve flower quality. Gaps in the border can be filled with annuals such as cosmos and nicotiana.

Continue to remove side shoots from cordon tomatoes; tie them into their support canes and feed regularly. Tender greenhouse plants can stand outside for the summer in a sheltered spot.

Cut back clematis Montana and other spring-flowering clematis if they have grown too large. Prune shrubs such as weigelia, deutzia and philadelphus after flowering. Train and tie in climbing roses regularly.

Do grow lots of plants that attract butterflies. 70% of British butterflies are in decline, mainly due to changes in agricultural practices and loss of agricultural land, but also, to some extent, as a result of climate change, although here there are both winners and losers. A recent discovery concerning the decrease in small tortoiseshell numbers is that a small fly, which has migrated from Europe, parasites the chrysalis stage.

Flowers supply the nectar that is the main food of most butterflies, though some are attracted to rotting fruit, dead animals or dung, and some drink from muddy pools, presumably absorbing nutrients in this way. Single rather than double flowers produce most nectar. In spring, think of dandelions, daisies, sweet rocket, wallflowers and honesty, whilst in summer, buddleja, lavender, marjoram, scabious, red valerian, sedum, thyme and Michaelmas daisies are favourites.

Food for caterpillars is also vital, and has to be available for the butterfly to lay eggs on. If the grass is too long, or the heather or bracken not controlled, or coppicing not done, the butterfly may not be able to reach the plant it needs. The peacock, small tortoiseshell and comma all favour nettles. Others feed on holly, ivy, honesty, wild garlic, buckthorn and rough grass. Where the exact requirements of butterfly and caterpillar are known and can be reproduced, the response is often very favourable.