July 2011 - Contents Refreshment Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Services at St Wystan's, Repton Services at St Saviour's, Foremark Services at St Mary's, Newton Solney Readers and Intercessors at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Wystan's Brasses at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Saviour's United Reformed Church Services at the United Reformed Church Summer Barbecue, Saturday 9th July Thanks for your support Shell (for children aged 7+) Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Phoebe Grace Wilkinson Harry James Swift Marriages Philip Anthony Barker and Jayne Elizabeth Redfern Funerals and Burial of Ashes Michael John Ernest Appleby Obituaries David Michael Wilson Norman Ellis The Memorial Book Derby Diocese Diocesan Summer School Repton Benefice Churches to consult the community Christian Aid Collection 2011 St Wystan's News Repton M.U. St Wystan's Church 'dos' Summer Food Fayre, Saturday 2nd July First Wednesday Lunch, Wednesday 6th July The King James Bible revealed, Friday 8th July Summer Barbecue, Saturday 10th July Strawberry Tea, Saturday 13th August Thankyou Dorothy Adams Margaret Shepherd Mary Vincent Environment Matters Jubilee Woods You and your Pet Cosmo and the Pet Blood Bank Neighbourhood Watch Digital Switchover Repton Village and History Celebrating the Royal British Legion ngs Open Garden, Sunday 17th July Repton W.I. Summer Play Social Car Drivers Needed Repton Beavers Repton Cubs Repton Village Party Repton Village Society Repton Village History Group The Repton Runners A New Local Plan for South Derbyshire Let's acknowledge excellence! Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Milton Open Gardens Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School St Mary's Summer Quiz Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Parish Council Notes Gardening Notes

---

Refreshment

Dear Friends,

Five weeks ago I led a group of twenty-five to Moscow and St Petersburg via the Volga and related rivers and canals. It was a fascinating taste of Russia.

Russia we read is a mixture of East and West. There were problems which stemmed from this division but considerable compensations. The greatest of these was the group of on-board musicians, Balalaika players from the Urals, who were doing a cruise for the first time. They were all professionals and gave us three concerts in the course of our voyage. Many of us bought their CD, and playing it now, I can mentally drift along the Volga with its broad waters and forests of silver birch trees. They also played for our attempts to sing Russian songs and learn a simple folk dance in preparation for a 'talent contest'. Our guide was determined that we should sing four songs in Russian. We did our best and certainly entered into the spirit of the songs even if the words were unrecognizable to any Russian. It was good enough, however, to give a much more entertaining performance than the other group on board. As a number of our group had professional musical qualifications, it was not surprising that we also trounced them in a music competition. The food was excellent and the staff friendly and helpful - as far as they could be without any English.

The highlights for me were the magnificence of Stalin's lock gates along the canals - nineteen of them, the ecclesiastical singers at Uglich, a view of Yaroslavl from the river in early morning sunshine, arctic terns in the locks as we entered lake Onega, the wooden churches of Kizhi, the Hermitage at St Peterburg, the Cossack dancers, the scale and magnificence of St Catherine's Palace, the beauty of the fountains and gardens at the Peterhof Palace, and, of course, Rembrandt's picture of the Return of the Prodigal Son.

The Cossack dancers were remarkable contortionists. One could hold his left foot with his right hand and 'jump' with his right foot through the loop - not to be recommended at home! Sadly there was too little time and too many people to do justice to the magnificence of Rembrandt's painting, which stood eight feet high and six feet wide. Readings from Henri Nouwen's book of the same title played a significant role in our group meetings on board.

We travelled 1700 kilometres by boat and reached a latitude of 65° north - level with the Faroes. We were blessed with four wonderful days of sunshine at St Petersburg and only had one really wet morning during the whole trip. I would thoroughly recommend the experience.

Some of you will begin your holidays this month; I hope that you too will have a time of great refreshment and inspiration.

With prayers and best wishes,

---

Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

---

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

---

Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

---

Brasses (contact Sue Parker, 702550)

---

Altar Flowers & Cleaning at St Saviour's (contact Ann Redfern, 01332 862350)

---

The United Reformed Church

---

Summer Barbecue: Saturday 9th July, 3 pm at 5 Monsom Lane

Lots of good food, a bouncy castle and children's games, or just the chance to relax in the sunshine, make this an unmissable event. Tickets at £5 - concessions £3 - are available from church members, or telephone 701581.

---

Thanks

. . . to everyone who supported our recent fund raising events, especially our Gift Day last month, in aid of our schoolroom refurbishment. To view online go to www.reptonurc.blogspot.com.

---

Shell (age 7+)

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

---

Baptisms

Phoebe Grace, daughter of Louise and George Wilkinson of Stretton, was baptised on Sunday 5th June at the United Reformed Church.

Harry James, son of Joanne and Richard Swift of Stretton, was baptised on Sunday 5th June at the United Reformed Church.

---

Marriages

Philip Anthony Barker and Jayne Elizabeth Redfern were married at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on Friday 3rd June.

---

Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Michael John Ernest Appleby of Derby died on Saturday 21st May aged 73. A funeral service on 15th June at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, was followed by burial in the churchyard, alongside his wife.

---

Obituaries

David Michael Wilson
9th June 1947 - 1st May 2011

David was born in Brighton into a large extended family. Educated at Brighton Grammar School, he went on to study maths and physics at the University of East Anglia, developing along the way a taste for Guinness and the Rolling Stones, before coming to Rolls Royce in Derby.

In 1969 he transferred to Rolls Royce and Associates (RR&A), the nuclear arm of RR, and as a graduate engineer entered the still new and challenging world of nuclear submarines. In Ticknall he shared a house at the Smithy with other young graduate trainees, and the Staff of Life was for all of them their second home. It was a happy time for such a sociable young man who greatly enjoyed the active life, rock-climbing, pot-holing, gliding, flying, running, skiing and sailing.

However, his friends gradually married and left, and in 1975 David, still a contented bachelor, moved to Repton, where in 1981 he bought his own house in the centre, close to the Boot! This comfortable arrangement lasted until he got together with Janet, who also worked at RR&A, and in 1990 they moved to Burdett Way, a house he loved because of the huge loft, which he filled with the stuff of his electronics.

However, David, only 42, was already beginning to suffer from Parkinsons. Although his working week reduced, he managed to continue for another 10 years. During this time, he and Janet travelled all over the world, and even after retirement, they managed many trips away, where his sociable nature easily overcame any embarrassment. Eventually, however, his balance went, walking became too difficult and reluctantly he had to use a wheelchair. Even at this stage he remained a familiar figure in the village, as Janet made sure that he continued to enjoy as full a life as possible.

His death brought to a sadly early end a life that, in health and in sickness, was well lived. We offer our sympathy to Janet, who has supported him throughout with such devotion.

---

Norman Ellis
15th April 1924 - 7th May 2011

Norman was born in Derby and educated at Bemrose School. As soon as he was 18, he enlisted in the Fleet Air Arm, spending most of his war years on the plains of Southern India, maintaining and monitoring radar equipment on planes. He said that while he was there in all that heat and with little food he lost an inch in height and that his feet shrank a shoe size.

Demobbed in August 1946, he joined Desboroughs in Derby, an agricultural engineering firm owned by his mother's partner. At a local amateur dramatic society, he met Val, and they were involved in many productions together. They married in 1954, and Norman joined his father-in-law's company, Sharp Brothers & Knight, timber merchants in Burton.

Norman's creative flair came to the fore when in 1956, shortly after the birth of the first of their three children, Val and he bought land in Newton Solney, where he designed and built Primavera, the house that was to become their permanent home. Way ahead of its time, the house featured in Ideal Home magazine as one of the first to be powered solely by electricity, having underfloor heating, then a new invention. The garden that they planned and planted around it gave him great pleasure throughout his life.

Norman had a strong artistic talent, expressed in his love of art and pottery, and leaving Sharp Brothers & Knight, he and Val started their own business, Interiors, with retail shops in Burton-on-Trent and Derby. Among other things, Interiors sold curtain fabric, which led to the development of Aurora Fabrics, a wholesaling curtain fabric company. Together with a Swedish mill they produced modern, colourful designs, and also developed a flameproof fabric, the first of its kind in the UK. Aurora was the only supplier of such fabrics, and they had contracts with hospitals and schools throughout the country, as new legislation required all public buildings to use flameproof material.

In the mid 60s, Norman and Val had bought a cottage in Bibury as a weekend retreat. Over the years they made good friends and planned to retire there, but before they could realise their dreams, in 1984 Val died. After losing her, Norman spent six months travelling the world and spending time with his children in Australia.

In 1988, following his return to Newton Solney, Norman married Sue, whom he had met on a Derbyshire Wildlife Trust walk, but his love of travel was not diminished; for many years he spent the English winters with his family, now in New Zealand and Thailand, but he always looked forward to returning to Primavera and village life in Newton Solney, where he hosted church fetes, grew and exhibited produce at the village show, and acted as reeve at the midsummer festival, heading the banqueting table. He loved the village community, his garden, the English countryside, and the birdsong; on the evening he died he had spent a wonderful couple of hours sitting with a dear friend on the patio and listening to the birdsong, which gave him great pleasure.

Norman was a true entrepreneur, adventurous, amusing, innovative and creative, but equally a warm and generous man, welcoming and well liked. We offer our sympathy to Susan and his family on their loss.

Thankyou

The family of Norman Ellis would like to thank friends and neighbours for the many cards and letters of sympathy we received at this sad time. They were deeply appreciated.

---

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.

---

Derby Diocese

Diocesan Summer School

From the 25th to the 29th July, the Diocese of Derby will hold its annual Spirituality Summer School, exploring approaches to prayer and ways of growing in spiritual insight and practice. Each day will include bible study and an introduction to some spiritual guides. Sessions will also tackle contemplation, prayer and Holy Communion, intercession and special moments.

As well as the Bishop, Dr Alastair Redfern, those leading the week include the Dean of Derby, Dr John Davies, and the Archdeacon of Chesterfield, Christine Wilson.

For further information, registration, and details of available grants, contact Amy Rees on 01332 388670.

---

Repton Benefice

Churches to consult the community

In response to a diocesan initiative, our Parochial Church Councils in Repton and Newton Solney are about to develop Mission Action Plans. The process will begin this month and last until September. Although it may take a different course in each village, the process will primarily involve consulting both the congregations and local residents, looking at what is happening in our parishes, and as a church community considering the direction that we think our churches should be taking.

Apart from its more general value in forward-planning, this will be particularly useful at the present time as the churches try to discern what they want from their new vicar. In the longer term it is envisaged that mission action planning will become a way of life for all of us in the Diocese, part of our annual cycle of renewal.

---

Christian Aid Collection 2011

This year's collection in Repton, Newton Solney and Ingleby raised £1895.56, nearly £140 up on last year. £1431.10 was collected in Repton and Ingleby, and £464.46 in Newton Solney. Many thanks to everyone who contributed so generously. The number of envelopes being filled in for Giftaid was well up - and well worthwhile; it added a further £257.86 to the total above.

We would like to thank all the dedicated collectors and the counters who helped to co ordinate the collection, and The Post Office for hosting the collection box.

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

Christian Aid does tremendous work, and I'm sure that many in Milton and Foremarke would want to support it too, but for next year we do need collectors there. Please consider it - it needn't be a long-term commitment. To discuss it, please contact either Jackie Hurrell on 702089, or, for Newton Solney, Jennifer Haynes on 703827.

---

St Wystan's News

Repton M.U.

In June, twenty M.U. members and friends had a most enjoyable visit to Alrewas Church. After a short service, the Repton ringers disappeared into the belfry with some of the Alrewas ringers, and soon Grandsire Doubles were ringing out across the Trent and Mersey canal. The rest of the party heard a short talk on the history of the church before taking a closer look at its architecture and furnishings. Refreshments were provided and served by three generations of Alrewas ringers.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 20th July at 2.15 pm in the Fisher Close Room: Sylvia Fox will be telling us about 'David and John Charles'.

---

St Wystan's Church 'dos'

In the first six months of this year we have enjoyed a busy and varied social programme. We began with a coffee morning hosted by Carol and Peter Paine at the Vicarage. In February, a Bring & Share supper was followed by pictures of Cambodia, Vietnam and the Mecong Delta taken by Jan and David Roberts. March was particularly busy with the APCM, Potatoes and Pancakes with Carol and Chris Lloyd, and finally a ceilidh organised by Frances and Martin Wimbush with live music by Bonnyrigg. A really fun evening, even for those who 'don't dance'.

In May we had our first Bring & Share lunch in church, when it was really nice to be able to make use of our new facilities, and a coffee morning with Anne and Tim Shone, when we were able to enjoy their lovely garden.

A big 'thank you' to everyone who gave time and effort in organising and hosting these events and making them so enjoyable; what you do is really appreciated.

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!

First Wednesday Lunches Wednesday 6th July from 12.30 to 1.30 pm in St Wystan's Church 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!

'By Royal Command' The King James Bible revealed Friday 8th July at 7.30 pm in St Wystan's Church Celebrating the 400th anniversary of this timeless masterpiece, with a collection of short readings from Genesis to Revelation, and musical interludes sung by the Wystan Singers. Tickets £2.50 to include a glass of wine or soft drink and nibbles, from Rev'd Peter Paine, 703317, David Roberts, 702159 , and Wendy Longden, 703259

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

Strawberry Tea Saturday 13th August, 3 - 5 pm Janet and John Talbot invite you to a 'Strawberry Tea' at 24 Monsom Lane, Repton Raffle and Bring & Buy Stall £4 including afternoon tea          All proceeds to St Wystan's Church

Thankyou

. . . to all my friends and neighbours for your kind wishes and cards sent during my recent long stay in hospital. They were really appreciated. . . . to all at St Wystan's Church - the churchwardens, PCC, sidespeople, bellringers, magazine folders, congregation, and Peter, our vicar. I was really overwhelmed by your lovely presents. We are very sorry to be leaving Repton after so many years, but will have the happiest memories to take with us. . . . to the kind people who have been transporting me to the hospital. It was a great help not having to look for a parking space every day. I am most grateful to you all.

---

Environment Matters

Jubilee Woods

To mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, the Jubilee Woods project, with the Princess Royal as Patron, is set to create hundreds of new woods. It is hoped that communities, schools, companies and landowners will plant a total of 6 million trees, creating hundreds of Jubilee Woods and copses. This is a celebration for everyone, whether you have the acreage to create a large wood on your own land, a smaller one in your local community, or simply want to plant a single tree in your back garden.

Just 60 Diamond Woods, each of at least 60 acres, will be planted to represent the 60 years of Her Majesty's reign. If you haven't got that sort of space, then from an acre upwards, you can plant your own Jubilee Wood. In addition there will be free Jubilee packs of 105 or 420 trees for communities, and of 60 trees for schools, each including a 'Royal Sapling', grown from tree seeds collected on the royal estates. Finally, it is hoped that friends, neighbours and families will also come together to plant thousands of individual trees in gardens or backyards.

The Woodland Trust can offer landowners help and advice at every stage. See their website, or contact the woodland creation team on 0845 293 5689.

---

You and your Pet

Cosmo and the Pet Blood Bank

Cosmo was a dog I knew already as he was being treated for idiopathic epilepsy. (Idiopathic just means we don't know the underlying cause.) Epilepsy can vary from very mild seizures with vacancy and muscle twitching, all the way through to the classic seizures that are very distressing for the animal and for the owner. However, Cosmo had been stable for a month before he became unwell again, but this time not due to seizures.

It was a Sunday morning and Cosmo's owner, Lianne, recognised that something was not right. His skin had a yellow tinge and he was dribbling urine. We were very concerned, as the yellow tinge on a blood sample revealed that he was jaundiced. The number of his red bloods was also very low, which meant that he was anaemic, and there were other cells that suggested that it was immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA). This is a condition where the immune system, instead of protecting against bacterial, parasitic and viral invaders, starts to destroy the body's own red blood cells. We were able to start medication to suppress this immune response, but it really was touch and go whether Cosma would survive. However, Lianne was also able to collect some packed red blood cells from the Pet Blood Bank. The Pet Blood Bank is a charity that does 'blood donation' sessions, and stores blood products ready for little characters like Cosmo. As a practice we are involved in blood donation sessions at our Burton branch, and have had three sessions in the past 12 months.

Fortunately, with the medication and the packed red cells, Cosmo has recovered well. He is still on medication to manage his epilepsy, and now his owners know what to look out for should his IMHA return.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ring any of our branches.

---

Neighbourhood Watch

Digital Switchover: In Derbyshire, the switchover begins on 17th August. You may want to change your tv, but you don't have to. To receive tv programmes on an analogue tv, connect it through a digital box; they can cost less than £20. However, if you want to watch one programme while you record another, you will need a digital recorder.

For free channels, most of us don't need a new aerial or satellite dish. If you get a good analogue picture now, your existing aerial should be fine. If you do need a new aerial, look for a Registered Digital Installer. For help, see page 284 on analogue Teletext.

The Digital Switchover Help Scheme can support anyone who is 75 or over, or is severely disabled (Disability Living Allowance, Mobility Supplement or Attendance Allowance), or is registered blind or partially sighted, or has been living in a care home for six months or more. It can supply a digital box, aerial installation, and user support. Note that no-one from Digital UK or the Switchover Help Scheme will come to your house unless you have asked them for help. Don't agree to have work done by anyone who calls without an appointment, or anyone who fails to show identification.

If you suspect you have been a victim of crime in connection with the switchover, or that there is a rogue trader in your area, call Derbyshire Constabulary on 0345 123 3333 or Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

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.

---

Repton Village & History

Celebrating the Royal British Legion

To commemorate the 90th Anniversary of The Royal British Legion, there will be a service of celebration at St Wystan's Church at 9.45 am on Sunday 10th July. The Church Parade will form up at Repton School Arch at 9.30 am, before processing into the church. It is hoped that the Scout and Guide movements will join us. Later there will be a buffet in the Legion Club for those who have attended the service.

The Royal British Legion, 1921 - 2011

From its foundation in 1921, the British Legion has grown to become a national institution, campaigning for and supporting the Armed Forces community. It was founded in the aftermath of the Great War as a merger of four organisations: the Comrades of the Great War, the National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers, the National Federation of Discharged and Demobilized Sailors and Soldiers and the Officers' Association. Earl Haig, commander of the Battle of the Somme and Passchendaele, was one of its founders, and President until his death in 1928. It was granted a Royal Charter - which gives it the privileged prefix, 'Royal' - to mark its fiftieth anniversary in 1971.

Apart from its role as the national custodian of Remembrance, the Legion now spends more than £1.2 million a week on health and welfare work, relying for most of its income on huge public support for the Poppy Appeal, which generates more than £75 million a year. In addition, political campaigns such as 'Honour the Covenant' have brought about changes in legislation.

The Royal British Legion in Repton

The Repton Branch was founded in 1935, originally in the old village hall, but not long afterwards it moved into the present building, which is rented from Repton School. The founders, who included the parents of Nat Warner, our current president, initiated the Wednesday whist drives which continue to this day. During the Second World War, the Legion's Friday night 'Bob (one shilling) Hops' and Saturday night dances in the old village hall were particularly popular with the servicemen and land girls billeted nearby.

Having started life as a federation of local self-help groups within communities, the Legion's presence in the community today remains a great source of strength.

---

ngs Open Garden Sunday 17th July, 1.30 - 6 pm
Wendy and Stephen Longden, Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street

Do come and walk our grassed labyrinth, or just sit and enjoy the garden and its glorious views. There are home-made teas in aid of the 'Quiet Garden' at St Wystan's Church, and plants for sale for the NGS and in the nursery. Admission £2.50, children free.

---

Repton W.I.

At the June meeting, members and guests enjoyed an evening of card-making under the guidance of Rossella Cottrell and friends, while catching up on news over tea and biscuits. We are grateful to Rossella, who stepped in at almost the last minute when the booked speaker was unable to come.

We heard that the W.I. had made over £350 serving refreshments at the Village Party, and thanks were given to all who had worked so hard to provide tea and cakes on such a successful occasion.

We have planned a session to make our scarecrow for the Open Gardens weekend, organised another walk for the energetic, and arranged a garden visit on 30th June. The August garden meeting will be at 37 High Street, the home of Jan Roberts, at 2.30 pm on Tuesday 9th August.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 12th July at 7.15 pm in the village hall: Michael Lakin will talk on 'Botanical Illustration'. Visitors are always welcome.

---

Summer Play provided by Repton Parish Council

These activities will take place at Mitre Field, Mitre Drive. Please help to publicise them to all local young people and encourage them to come along and enjoy the facilities; they are all free of charge. Just turn up on the day. Suitable clothing and footwear should be worn.

			Age Range
Tuesday 26th July	10 am - noon	Wacky Sports Mobile	8 - 14
Monday 1st August	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall	8+
Tuesday 9th August	2 - 4 pm	Play & Sports Mobile	8 - 14
Tuesday 16th August	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall	8+
Tuesday 23rd August	2 - 4 pm	Sports Mobile	8 - 14

Children under 8 should be accompanied by an adult. If it rains, activities will continue at the discretion of South Derbyshire District Council. We hope to see as many young people there as possible!

---

Social Car Drivers Needed

The Social Car scheme uses volunteer drivers and their vehicles to provide transport for people in South Derbyshire who can't access public transport. New drivers are always needed, and currently there is a desperate shortage in our area.

Drivers take people to medical appointments, to see relatives or friends or to go shopping. They provide a lifeline to people who might otherwise find themselves isolated and lonely.

Social Car is non profit-making, but clients pay 40p a mile which is passed on to the driver to cover out-of-pocket expenses.

If you are interested in volunteering as a driver, please contact Chris Wagstaff, CVS Office Manager on 01283 550163 or Alyson Key, CVS Social Car Scheme Organiser on 01283 551766.

---

Repton Beavers, Boys & Girls from 5¾ to 8

This month, our Beavers are going to join other Beavers from across the county in an activity day - over 40 different activities - at Drum Hill campsite. The bases to be visited by the Beavers are packed full of exciting (as well as some quieter) things to do, including archery, adventure courses, air cannons, a dragon ride, hands-on experiments, grass sledging, mazes, a rope bridge, mud hut building, story-telling, dancing and lots more!

If your son or daughter would like to try Beavers and join in our fun, please contact Liz Massey-Beeston on 703314.

---

Repton Cubs, Boys & Girls aged 7½ to 10½

Cubs have had a busy few weeks, enjoying an evening canoeing at Burton Canoe Club and practising their archery at Willington. Five of them have just returned from their first Cub Camp with other Cubs from the District in Sherwood Forest. At camp the activities included caving, a visit to the Major Oak in Sherwood Forest, and tackling the assault course.

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

---

Repton Village Party

Thank you to everyone who completed the questionnaire at the Village Party. The information you provided is really helpful in planning future events and activities, including the next Party! When the draw for the bottle of champagne was held at the May meeting of the Village Society, the winner was Mr. Gee of Main Street. Congratulations!

---

Repton Village Society

In mid-June, a tour of the Palace of Westminster was well worth the early start and the delays in reaching London. It was arranged by Heather Wheeler MP and lasted just over an hour, during which time we visited both Houses, Westminster Hall, and much else besides, seeing many interesting people. Some in the party took the opportunity to visit the Jewel Tower opposite, before we all took afternoon tea on the House of Commons terrace, overlooking the Thames, where we were joined by Heather and her assistant, Linda Coxon, as well as briefly by Andrew Griffiths, MP for Burton. On a busy day for her, Heather spent an hour with us, describing the work of Parliament and answering many questions. Our thanks to both Heather and Linda for a splendid occasion.

Thursday 7th July

Rod Pearson will be talking about the Manchester Ship Canal. Then, on Saturday 9th, he will be the guide on a land cruise along the canal, ending at Salford Quays. The coach leaves the Arch at 8 am, and there are still 3 seats vacant. £16.

---

Repton Village History Group

Shirley Horton's excellent talk in May was called 'Derbyshire Born'. She told us about well-known and famous people born in Derbyshire, most of whom had had to move to other parts to obtain the recognition they deserved. In early June a party of members enjoyed a very informative private tour through the storage and conservation rooms on the first floor of the stable block at Calke Abbey. Our host, John Parkinson, gave a detailed insight into the conservation and storage requirements of artefacts stored there.

Wednesday 13th July, Visit to St Giles Roman Catholic Church

This church at Cheadle in Staffordshire is considered to be one of the finest of all those designed by the celebrated Victorian architect, Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin. For further details, contact Alan Thompson on 701130.

Wednesday 17th August, Visit to the Great Central Railway at Loughborough

At the time of writing, there are still a few vacancies. Contact Alan Thompson as above.

---

The Repton Runners

This has been a good month for The Repton Runners with fourteen members taking part in a 5k race organised by Jog Derbyshire at Rosliston Forestry Centre. The majority of our team had only been running for a few months, and for many it was their first official race event. It was a lovely sunny day and we were all proud to make it round in very respectable times. We have also been doing some speed training on the playing fields which was great fun; now we are planning some hill training - we can't put it off forever!

Corrected contact number!

Apologies if you wanted to know more and were unable to get through on the phone number given last month. The correct number is 07949 941031. You can also contact me at jo-taylor-fitness@live.co.uk or on Faceboook at The Repton Runners.

---

A New Local Plan for South Derbyshire

Following consultation with communities in February and March, South Derbyshire District Council is drawing up its new Local Plan, and has arranged a series of public 'drop-in' events to talk about the future of Repton and the surrounding areas. The plan will help to shape the location of new homes, jobs and community facilities. Area profiles have been drawn up to highlight what you would like to protect and your hopes for change.

Now a further round of drop-in events is to take place, so that you can comment on options for the amount of new housing you think will be needed over the next 15 years or so, and where it should be located. Across the District, thirteen events have been organised including:

Tuesday 12th July, 3.30 - 7.30 pm, at Findern Village Hall
Thursday 14th July, 2.30 - 7 pm, at Repton Village Hall
Tuesday 19th July, 3 - 7.30 pm, at Bill Shone Leisure Centre, High Street, Melbourne

For a full list with further details, see www.south-derbys.gov.uk/LDF, or ring 595749.

Everyone is invited to attend. It is your chance to have your say.

---

Let's acknowledge excellence!

South Derbyshire Annual Sports Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the sporting achievements of local people. You are invited to nominate competitors, coaches and volunteers who have excelled, as well as those who go above and beyond, week in, week out. Categories include Junior Sportsperson of the Year, Disabled Sportsperson of the Year, Team of the Year, Club of the Year and Service to Sport. Winners will be also entered into the Derbyshire Sports Awards in November. Nomination forms are available at www.south-derbys.gov.uk/sportsawards.

Full eligibility criteria are also on the website, but three are worth noting: these awards apply to the year from September 2010 to August 2011; they are for amateurs; previous nominees may be nominated again. Nominations close on Friday 19th August.

---

Repton Parish Council Jottings

• Part-Night Street Lighting: Derbyshire County Council has asked the Parish Council for its views on turning off certain street lights between the hours of midnight and 5.30 am. Permanently switching off some lights which do not provide a community benefit would help save money and also cut carbon. If you would like us to reflect your views, please contact the Parish Council before the 8th July.
• Parking in the High Street: Councillors expressed considerable concern, and have been in touch with the police, who agree that the High Street is sometimes 'dangerously crowded'. The problem is particularly acute after 6 pm, not least because of the number of successful 'eateries' there. The Parish Council decided that more research is needed, as well as further meetings with the police, before it decides on its next move.
• 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 used. See the separate article above.

Next meeting: Monday 11th July at 7.30 pm in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton.

---

Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

Members and guests were welcomed to our June open meeting by President Jane Smith before Laura, a representative from The Body Shop, gave a brief resumé about The Body Shop and the products they sell. Members and guests sampled some of the many lotions and potions, and four lucky ladies won a goody bag each in the raffle game.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 20th July at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall. Bill Allen's talk is entitled 'Slow, slow, quick, quick, slow', so bring your dancing shoes just in case!

---

Milton Open Gardens

Well, for weeks we gardeners have been hoping for rain, but not on the day of our Open Gardens - yet that is exactly when it arrived! The day before and the day after were beautiful, but on our day it rained, all the time.

Usually we attract about 350 people; this time only 125 hardy gardeners came. The catering was done by us for the first time - rather than by the W.I. - and the 125 who came must have eaten cakes and drunk tea until it came out of their ears, and bought dozens of tombola tickets, because all in all we raised £680 for the Air Ambulance!

Nevertheless, the 12 gardens which were open looked at their best, and everyone seemed to have enjoyed the day and the BBQ in the Village Hall afterwards.

Thank you to everyone who braved the elements and either opened their garden, helped out in other ways or visited us; let's hope for better weather on the next occasion.

---

Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School

Community Collective Worship, Wednesday 6th July at 9.15 am

You are invited to join us once again in the school hall at 9.15 on Wednesday 6th July.

Summer Food Fayre, Saturday 2nd July, noon - 2 pm

Do join us for our Summer Fayre in the school grounds. Everyone is most welcome.

---

St Mary's Summer Quiz

The latest quiz, this time on 'Favourite Foods', can be obtained from St Mary's Church after Sunday services, from 'Hairs & Graces' in Willington, or from Hazel Ward, 21 Blacksmith's Lane, Newton Solney, 701244. The cost is £1 - for a prize of £20. Completed entries should be returned to Hazel Ward by 30th September; the winner will be drawn from among the correct entries at St Mary's Harvest Lunch on 9th October.

---

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

Tuesday 5th July, 2.30 pm

A business meeting followed by an informal social.

Tuesday 19th July, our annual full day's outing to Strafford-on-Avon

The coach will leave from the Unicorn, Newton Solney, at 9.30 am, calling at Repton and Willington. En route we will stop for morning coffee. The cost including the coffee break is £12. On our return journey we are calling at the Appleby Hotel for an early evening meal. To book a seat and for further information, please contact Jane on 564520, or Dennis on 701244 for the evening menu.

There is no meeting in August, but Hazel and the team will still be providing the Ploughman's Lunches as usual, at 1 pm in the village hall.

---

Newton Solney W.I.

This month's meeting saw Helen Mickie give an enlightening talk on hypnotherapy. Helen explained how different techniques can bring about therapeutic changes to those suffering from anxieties and phobias due to stress or lack of confidence.

Entries for the Craft Cup were of an exceptionally high standard, which made judging difficult. The winner was Carol Checketts with her beautifully crafted doll.

In early June, nine members visited Crown Derby to view the Titanic exhibition. Our next visit will be on Monday 15th August to see the Staffordshire Hoard at Lichfield Cathedral. On 20th August Jean Burns will be hosting a Summer Buffet for members and their partners.

Members were reminded that cakes for St Giles would be accepted on 14th July, and that we would be providing tea for the ladies from Chesterfield on 21st July. We still need someone to represent us at the village hall meetings on the first Tuesday of the month. If you think you may be interested, please speak to Hazel Ward or any of the committee members.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 12th July: George Hook's talk is entitled 'Mother of Pearl'. Whist Drive: Tuesday 26th July. Both welcome new members. Both are at 7.30 pm in the village hall.

---

Newton Solney Parish Council Notes

Councillors: Names of Parish Councillors and contact details are to be displayed on the two notice boards in the village.

Low-Carbon Village Project: The Low Carbon Village Project is proceeding; grants of up to £99 for cavity wall insulation and up to £199 for loft insulation are available. In order to ensure that all parishioners have time to apply, the closing date has been extended to 6th July 2011. If you have not yet received an application form, please contact the Clerk, Ron Parker, on 07863 359129. He will provide one for you. This opportunity should not be missed; all parishioners are urged to take advantage.

Part night street lighting: The Parish Council has received a letter from Derbyshire County Council with reference to a proposal to save energy costs and reduce the carbon impact associated with street lighting. They are considering 'part night street lighting', which involves turning off identified street lights each day between midnight and 5.30 am. We are asked to ascertain the views of parishioners, and invite you to make your comments to the Clerk, Ron Parker, on 07863 359129, or to come to the next Parish Council meeting.

Next meeting: Friday 8th July at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

---

Gardening Notes

After such a dry spring, we will have to prioritise watering, paying especial attention to seed beds, containers, crops about to be harvested, and new plantings, including any shrubs and trees planted in the last year. Runner beans in flower also need water; the flowers will not set if the plant is too dry. To minimise evaporation, water early in the morning or in the evening.

When mowing lawns in dry weather, raise the height of the cut, and leave the mowings on the lawn. Apply a summer feed if the lawn lacks vigour, but only if the soil is damp and rain is forecast.

Sow purple-sprouting broccoli and calabrese for next spring. Also sow spinach, spring cabbage and parsley. Fennel and kohlrabi sown directly (i.e. where they are to grow till harvest) will suffer less root disturbance and be less likely to bolt. Continue to sow lettuce to ensure a supply till autumn, but lettuce sown after the end of July may not mature before the cold weather comes.

Harvest courgettes when they are about 15 cm long, so that the supply continues.

If necessary, divide bearded irises after flowering; discard the old, central rhizome, retaining the outer, younger ones. Shorten the leaves by about half, and replant the rhizomes on the surface, ensuring that the roots are covered with soil. Water well.

Stake sunflowers and autumn perennials such as Michaelmas daisies.

After flowering, cut back the new growth of brooms and rockroses to keep them in shape. Prune box hedging and topiary at the end of the month. Keep hawthorn, lonicera, laurel and Leylandii hedges trimmed. Pruning Leylandii later in the year may be one of the causes of the dead, brown patches often seen.

Take heel cuttings of herbs such as hyssop, rosemary, lavender and sage. The last two are not long-lived. Take non-flowering side shoots that are soft at the tip and woody at the base; pull them off gently with a heel of wood, and trim off the excess bark before dipping in root-forming hormone and planting in suitable compost.

Thin over-crowded apples, pears and plums to leave fewer but larger and better fruit.

In warm, damp weather, when it is more likely to occur, watch out for the first signs of blight - dark patches on the edges of leaves - on potatoes and tomatoes. Spraying immediately with a copper fungicide will help. Dry weather, on the other hand, creates the perfect conditions for powdery mildew. Some roses, perennial phlox and Michaelmas daisies are especially susceptible, but it also affects honeysuckle and clematis. Spray with a fungicide.

Keep brassicas covered with a fine mesh. To prevent cabbage white butterflies laying their eggs, the mesh should not touch the plants at all.

Holes in the leaves of dahlias and fuchsias, among others, are the work of the capsid bug. Earwigs will damage dahlia and chrysanthemum flowers. Mottled foliage on leaves in the greenhouse is probably due to red spider mites, which spread very rapidly, weakening the plant. Use a biological control or spray with bifenthrin.

Watch out for and squash red lily beetles. Vine weevils will be laying their eggs now; plants in containers to overwinter need protection with a biological control or Bio Provado Vine Weevil Killer.

Thin out pond weeds. A fountain will increase oxygenation and help fish to thrive.

If you are worried about the soundness of a tree, acoustic tomography can now be used to test it. The apparatus measures the speed of sound passing through the trunk; rotten wood is denser and slows the sound. The idea is not new. Ultrasound has been used for some time in medicine in echocardiography, and by midwives for visualising the infant.