October 2011 - Contents Healing the Past 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 Coffee morning, Saturday 8th October Shell (for children aged 7+) Evening Services Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages Stuart James Smith and Gemma Galvez Smedley Funerals and Burial of Ashes Samuel Weaver Derrick Arthur Eaton Freda Tyers Ronald (Ron) Monaghan The Memorial Book Repton Benefice The End of Summertime Harvest Collection for the Padley Centre Thank you from Peter and Carol 'Ride & Stride' St Wystan's News Harvest Festival and 'Back to Church' Sunday, 9th October Prayer for Christian Healing, Sunday 23rd October All Saints Sunday, 30th October Service of Commemoration, Sunday 30th October at 4 pm PCC Social Committee, Events in November Church Brasses Repton M.U. St Saviour's News Harvest Festival, Sunday 9th October St Mary's News Newton Solney Harvest Celebrations, Sunday 2nd October Service of Commemoration, Sunday 30th October at 4 pm MacMillan Coffee Morning, Saturday 1st October Newton Solney Pies 'n Puds Lunch, Saturday 1st October First Wednesday Lunch, Wednesday 5th October U3A Creative Writing Group, starting 6th October Morning Coffee, Saturday 8th October St Wystan's Church Harvest Lunch, Sunday 9th October St Mary's Church Harvest Lunch, Sunday 9th October Repton School Concert, Wednesday 12th October Repton Village and School Sale of Work and Fun Day, Saturday 5th November Light Classical Concert, Friday 18th November Thankyou Ronald Monaghan Environment Matters Good things come to those who plant trees You and your Pet Chronic renal failure Neighbourhood Watch Unlicensed Taxis Willington Surgery Seasonal Flu Vaccination Repton Village and History Christian Meditation Repton Village Society Repton Village History Group Repton Beavers Repton Cubs Guides: new night, new time! Christmas Tree Festival Repton Lunch Club ~ Drop-In Village Games Diamond Jubilee Celebrations Mercian Handbells Repton W.I. Repton Village Show 2011 Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney Infants School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council News Further Afield The Big Draw, Saturday 8th October, Willington Village Hall Gardening Notes O&S The European Health Insurance Card

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Healing the Past

This first letter after Peter's retirement will share with you something which, I am sure, has pleased him greatly. In July, the Church of England General Synod voted overwhelmingly to bring the Church into closer unity with the United Reformed Church. Two of our URC ministers, Elizabeth Welch and Graham Maskery, the latter a former Derbyshire farmer who looked after our Repton fellowship a few years ago, spoke to the synod about our close links in the past, about our closeness in doctrine, about successful shared local initiatives, such as Lent courses, pre-school and after-school clubs, shared worship and buildings. Anglican representatives spoke warmly of the work we had done together, and one asked, 'Has not the time come to agree the goal of full, visible unity?' This was endorsed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, who commended the report 'Healing the Past - Building the Present', which was the result of a three-year study group between the URC and the Church of England.

Next year will see the 350th Anniversary of the Great Ejectment, when Anglican vicars were asked to give unqualified assent to the Book of Common Prayer and to the Articles of Faith; those who felt unable to do this were ejected from the Anglican Communion; many of them were to become, after suitable training, ministers of the Congregational and Presbyterian Churches. Graham Maskery reminded the Synod that, though we are a small Church here in Britain, we are members of the 40 million-strong World Communion of Reformed Churches - very close in number to the World-wide Communion of the Church of England.

One of the speakers at the Synod said, forcefully, 'Let's get on with it - get on with it!' and the Synod voted to do just that - voting overwhelmingly in favour of two resolutions: to hold a special service in Westminster Abbey in February next year, and to continue to discuss outstanding issues of doctrine and practice of the two churches. Here in Repton, to echo the speaker at Synod, 'Let's get on with it!'

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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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Coffee morning, Saturday 8th October at 10.30 am

Another chance to stock up with home-made cakes and marmalade, to browse the Webb Ivory range of cards and gifts, and to chat with friends over coffee.

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Shell (age 7+)

. . . meets on Mondays from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. No meeting on 24th October. Activities this month include bingo, cookery, and a Big Game night! New members welcome!

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Evening Services

During the winter months from November to March, evening services will be on the first and fourth Sundays of the month only, on the first at Fisher Close, and on the fourth a service of Holy Communion.

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Marriages

Stuart James Smith and Gemma Galvez Smedley were married at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on Saturday 3rd September.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

On Wednesday 7th September, Samuel Weaver, baby son of Mark and Clare Weaver, was buried in Foremark churchyard following a service in St Saviour's Church.

Derrick Arthur Eaton of Repton died on Thursday 18th August aged 81. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 7th September was followed by cremation.

Freda Tyers, formerly of Burton and Newton Solney, died in the Dales on Saturday 27th August aged 90. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 8th September was followed by cremation. Ronald (Ron) Monaghan of Repton died on Wednesday 31st August aged 91. He was cremated at Bretby on 8th September.

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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 use the website contact page to contact the churchwardens.

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Repton Benefice

The End of Summertime

British Summertime ends on Sunday 30th October. From that date, the regular evening services at Newton Solney and Foremark will be brought forward to 4 pm for the winter months.

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Harvest Collection for the Padley Centre

All the churches are inviting harvest gifts to support the Padley Centre in Derby. Their 'wish list' is on the notice boards at the back of church and in the porch. If in doubt, non-perishable foods such as tinned soup, meat, fish, vegetables and puddings, and packeted tea, sugar, flour and rice are a safe bet, as are personal items such as disposable razors, toothbrushes, paste, shampoo, and similar. Please leave goods in church. They cannot use items that are out of date.

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Thank you from Peter and Carol

Thank you to all our friends at Repton, Newton Solney and Foremark for the beautiful cards and good wishes that we have received, as well as for coming to make our final service at St Wystan's and the presentation lunch in the village hall so wonderful. I was very pleased to receive an excellent fountain pen and lovely flowers, and we will use the generous cheque of £1315 on items for our new home; we have already ordered a garden shed as the old one was very rotten.

We would be pleased to see any of you at Ainsdale if you come in that direction - bring some golf clubs! Our new address will be Beachway House, 27 Stratford Close, Ainsdale, PR8 2RT. Tel. 07722 127791.

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'Ride & Stride'

On a warm if cloudy September morning, the Bishop and his wife arrived early in Repton to launch the event in this area. Having read the Morning Service at St Wystan's and breakfasted at Repton School, they cycled off on their tandem to visit a number of other churches on their route back to Derby.

Three other cyclists also set out on behalf of St Wystan's and St Mary's, between them visiting over thirty churches; sponsorship money was still arriving a fortnight later.

Both churches in Repton, as well as at Foremark and Newton Solney, were open to receive visitors and offer refreshments. Many thanks to all who helped to organise and steward the event, especially those in the URC who offered the extra welcome of a coffee morning, and of course to all of you who sponsored the cyclists.

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St Wystan's News

Harvest Festival and 'Back to Church' Sunday, 9th October

At St Wystan's we are combining Harvest Festival with 'Back to Church' Sunday, a national initiative to invite all people to return to worship at their local church. Do come and join with us at 9.45 am for this Family Service in which we give thanks for the 'Fruits of the Harvest', with well known harvest hymns, readings, prayers, an 'all-age' address, and activities for children. As usual the service will be followed by refreshments. You will be most welcome.

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Prayer for Christian Healing, Sunday 23rd October

Prayer for Christian Healing at St Wystan's Church follows the 9.45 Parish Communion. Everyone is welcome.

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All Saints Sunday, 30th October, Benefice Communion Service at 9.45 am

This service, celebrated since the 4th century, invites us to remember all saints and martyrs throughout Christian history.

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Service of Commemoration, Sunday 30th October at 4 pm

At St Wystan's annual Service of Commemoration, we recall family members, loved ones, members of the community and friends, particularly those who have died recently. There is an opportunity to remember them by name, and an invitation to light a candle in their memory. The service is short and poignant with well known hymns and prayers.

We try to send a written invitation to the next of kin of those who have died most recently, but other family members are most welcome to share in the service, as are members of the congregation and others, whether you have received a personal invitation or not. If your remembered one was not buried or cremated in one of our parishes and you would like their name to be included and read out, please complete the slip of paper on entering the church.

The service will be followed by refreshments. All are welcome.

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PCC Social Committee, Events in November

A variety of events in November and at the beginning of December need tickets or advanced booking, so this is to give you early warning. More detailed information will follow next month.

Saturday 19th November is our annual Quiz Evening, always great fun, and it gets your brain working. 7.15 for 7.30 pm in Repton village hall Contact Jan Gillham, 703340.

On Friday 25th November in St Wystan's Church we have a 'Concert with Soup and Sweet'. The concert at noon by pupils of Foremarke Hall will be followed by lunch. This was a lovely and very successful occasion last year. Contact Frances Wimbush, 703180, or Jan Roberts 702159.

On Tuesday 29th November at 10.30 am, there will be a demonstration of Christmas flower arrangement by Judie Cripps in St Wystan's Church, also followed by a lunch. Contact Carol Lloyd, 702410.

Finally, to raise funds to repair the church spire, plans are being made for a concert in St Wystan's Church by pupils from Foremarke Hall on the evening of Thursday 1st December.

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Church Brasses

The brasses in St Wystan's Church are cared for with the help of a large number of willing volunteers. However, there are some gaps on the rota, including this month. If you could help by doing the brasses (all except the lectern) just twice a year we would be most grateful. Most will be together in the vestry, so it's quite a quick job. Please contact Sue Parker on 702550.

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Repton M.U.

The check-in point at St Wystan's for cyclists and walkers taking part in September's Ride & Stride was organised by members of Repton M.U. The first to sign in were the Bishop of Derby and his wife, starting their ride on a tandem. The cyclists who followed were more local.

The September meeting was an in-house affair with member the Rev'd June Scott describing the path which had led her to ordination.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 19th October at 2.15 pm in the Fisher Close Room: A meditation led by Wendy Longden.

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St Saviour's News

Harvest Festival, Sunday 9th October

At Foremark at 6.30 pm, Harvest Festival is a traditional service with popular hymns. Everyone from all our parishes is welcome to join.

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St Mary's News

Newton Solney Harvest Celebrations, Sunday 2nd October

We shall finish decorating the church for Harvest on the morning of Saturday 1st October, from 9.30 am. The Harvest Festival Service will on the Sunday at 10 am, and during the following week gifts of produce, dry goods and toiletries will be distributed both within the village and, at Derby, to the City Mission and the Padley Centre. St Mary's Harvest Lunch will be a week later, on Sunday 9th October at 1 pm in Newton Solney village hall.

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Service of Commemoration, Sunday 30th October at 4 pm

At the annual Service of Commemoration we recall members of the community, family members and friends who have recently died. Anyone who wishes to light a memorial candle is warmly invited to come and share in this service.

MacMillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning Saturday 1st October, 10 am – noon 9 The Crescent, Repton Stalls, Raffle, Tombola, Books, Bric-a-Brac All Welcome

Newton Solney Women's Institute Pies 'n Puds Lunch (Cottage pies, meat or vegetarian version, plus desserts) Saturday 1st October, 12.30 - 2 pm, in Newton Solney Village Hall Tickets from Rosemary, 703000, or Jean, 702463 : Adults £6.50, children under 11 £4.50 All Welcome        Bring your own drinks!

First Wednesday Lunches Wednesday 5th October 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!

U3A Creative Writing Group First and third Thursday of each month, 1.30 - 3.30 pm, starting 6th October The Den, Mitre Drive, Repton No previous writing experience necessary, just a desire to write For course details, contact Carol Hickebottom on 703991 To learn about the University of the Third Age, see the Burton on Trent Group pages at U3A.org.uk

Morning Coffee Saturday 8th October, 10 am - noon Wendy and Stephen Longden invite you to Morning Coffee and Cake at Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street, Repton Raffle and Plant Stall £2.50 with as many refills as you like        All proceeds to St Wystan's Church

St Wystan's Church Harvest Lunch St Wystan's Church, Sunday 9th October at 12.30 pm £1. Everyone welcome. Bring your own drink & glasses. Everyone who attends contributes to the food by bringing a dish for 6. No tickets, but it does need coordination to make sure we don't end up with only pork pie and profiteroles! So . . . Ring Jan Gillham, 703340, or Carol Lloyd, 702410 for details and to discuss dishes.

St Mary's Church Newton Solney Harvest Lunch Sunday 9th October at 1 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall Please bring your own drinks! Adults £7.50      Children under 12 £5 Tickets from Hazel Ward, 21 Blacksmith's Lane, Newton Solney. Tel. 701244

Repton School Concerts Society Snake Davis Band Wednesday 12th October at 7.45 pm in The 400 Hall Saxman Snake Davis has played and recorded with artists ranging from James Brown to Paul McCartney, The Eurhythmics to Amy Winehouse. His soulful, passionate sound is instantly recognisable. He is on the road in 2011 with his new 4-piece band, lots of new material and a wonderful mix of soul, world funk and jazz. The concert will also feature the haunting Japanese shakuhachi and Irish whistle along with saxophones. There will definitely be something for everybody, young, old or in between, on this special night. Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). Tickets for the whole season of 10 concerts cost £70. For tickets or further information contact Sue Parker, 01283702550, or the Music School, 01283 559319

Repton Village and School Sale of Work and Fun Day Saturday 5th November from 2.15 pm in the grounds and halls of Repton School Stalls, fun items for children of all ages, refreshments. A large number of excellent prizes to be won

A Light Classical Concert Friday 18th November at 7.30 pm The VoiceBox, Foreman Street, Derby, DE1 1JQ With local musicians, Neil and Jane Millensted, Sarah Lloyd and friends Tickets £5 (including refreshments), students and children free, at the door or from Neil and Jane, tel. 703374. All proceeds to The Ear Foundation, www.earfoundation.org.uk a registered charity helping deaf children to hear and communicate

Thankyou

The family of the late Ronald Monaghan wish to pay sincere and grateful thanks to all the friends and neighbours who so graciously offered their help and support throughout Ron's long illness and following his death.

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Environment Matters

Good things come to those who plant trees

The UK is one of the least wooded countries in Europe, with only 4% native woodland cover. We need at least twice as much, and from farmers and communities to schools and companies, we all have a role to play.

Trees, copses, hedgerows and woodland are invaluable features in our villages, towns and cities. They enhance the places where we live, learn, work, rest and play. Trees can transform an area by introducing shade, protective shelter and wildlife, and are a great, green investment for future generations.

The Woodland Trust has a range of free tree packs available to schools, youth groups and communities. If you know of public land that would benefit, please apply.

Apply now to receive a free community tree planting pack to plant this autumn or in spring or autumn 2012. Next year, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, is an ideal occasion for planting commemorative trees. Each pack will contain a royal oak sapling.

Packs come in two sizes: 105 trees, ideal for planting either in small groups or as a hedge of approximately 30 metres, and 420 trees, to create a long hedge or divide up and plant at different sites. If planted as a single block of trees, there are sufficient for approximately an acre.

The trees supplied are young saplings about 20 - 40 cm high. Choose from four different themed mixes: Wildlife - blackthorn, hawthorn, hazel, silver birch, rowan and common oak; Year-round colour - hawthorn, hazel, silver birch, rowan, wild cherry and dogwood; Wood fuel - ash, silver birch, wild cherry, common oak and hornbeam; Wild harvest - hazel, blackthorn, crab apple, elder and dog rose.

For more information, see the Woodland Trust website, www.woodlandtrust.org.uk.

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You and your Pet

Chronic renal failure

. . . is common in older cats, and increasingly so with age; typically one in five cats over 15 has some degree of renal (kidney) failure.

The kidneys have many roles, the most important being to maintain water and salt balance, and to remove toxins from the bloodstream. They are also crucial in electrolyte balance, controlling blood pressure, and stimulating the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.

Chronic renal failure is caused by long-standing, irreversible damage to the kidneys. Typically it develops when two-thirds to three-quarters of functional kidney tissue is lost. This hampers their ability to remove waste from the blood stream, causing a build-up of urea, creatinine and phosphate. Both urea and creatinine cause nausea and, in some cases, halitosis and mouth ulcers.

Clinical signs include picky appetite, weight loss, excessive thirst, dehydration, lethargy and depression. In some instances, excessive thirst can present as excessive appetite, as wet foods contain up to 60% water. With renal failure, nausea can result in vomiting, oral hygiene can lead to a poor, unkempt coat, and muscle weakness can occur.

Renal failure is diagnosed with a blood and urine sample, but its cause often remains undiagnosed, and treatment aims at reducing the rate of further kidney deterioration.

Treatments can include a short spell on intravenous fluids. Cats are prone to become dehydrated, so feeding wet foods from a sachet or tin can be important, as cats get most of their water from their food. You can also improve water intake by using rain water, putting water in ceramic or metal bowls, using pet fountains or giving water flavoured with perhaps chicken or beef. Commercial foods for renal failure tend to have reduced protein and phosphate levels, but they can sometimes be unpalatable, and it is better for the cat to eat some food rather than be forced on a prescription diet.

If you feed a non-prescription diet, phophate binders can be added to food to combat elevated levels of phosphate. Low potassium levels that contribute to weakness can be supplemented. ACE inhibitors are used to reduce the level of protein loss.

If you have any queries please don't hesitate to contact the surgery.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Unlicensed Taxis

Under the heading 'Don't get taken for a ride', a campaign by SDDC aims to root out bogus taxi drivers.

Travelling in an unlicensed taxi puts you at risk of overcharging or even serious physical assault. You can't be confident that the vehicle is safe, that the driver is qualified or that he has public liability insurance. Whether you approach the driver or he approaches you, there is no record of the journey, and you're putting yourself in danger.

When you pre-book a journey, ask for confirmation of the vehicle licence number and the cost of the journey.

All licensed private hire vehicles in the District display a yellow plate on the rear and a smaller internal plate. The driver must also wear an ID badge, issued by the council, which includes his or her photograph. Check them before you get in. And do check that the vehicle is from the company you booked.

Report any suspicions on 01283 595795.

Remember:

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

Always look out for your elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

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Willington Surgery

Seasonal Flu Vaccination

If you are 65 or over, a carer, or pregnant, or if you suffer from immunosuppression, chronic respiratory, heart, kidney, neurological or liver disease, asthma or diabetes, it is highly recommended that you have an annual influenza injection.

Please call in to the surgery or telephone 703318 to book an appointment. Dates available to book include Saturday 8th October.

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Repton Village & History

Christian Meditation

A Christian meditation group meets at 8 pm on Wednesdays at the United Reformed Church in Pinfold Lane, Repton.

Christian Meditation originated with the early Desert Fathers of the 4th century, and during the last century was rediscovered for contemporary men and women by a Benedictine monk, Father John Main. A form of silent, imageless prayer using a mantra or prayer word, it is rooted in the Gospel and the letters of St Paul. Christians of all denominations take part as a complement to more organised religious expressions and forms of prayer. Today there are over 800 Christian meditation groups around the world (see www.wccm.org).

Newcomers are welcomed to the group. The one hour meeting includes a short taped talk on meditation, followed by 25 minutes of practice before we finish with a brief discussion. For further information, ring Stephen Longden on 703259, or 701069.

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Repton Village Society

In September there were hawks, owls and kestrels very 'close and personal' amongst the audience whilst David and Val Chant gave their talk on falconry. A unique evening.

Thursday 6th October

Bruce Ridley describes his high altitude charity trek to Machu Picchu - the Lost City of the Incas. Repton Village Hall, 7.30 pm.

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Repton Village History Group

On Tuesday 18th October, Dr Wendy Freer will give a light-hearted talk on 'The Census Story'. Wendy is an excellent speaker and we can expect an entertaining evening. Village hall, 7.30 pm. Members and visitors are welcome. Members £2, visitors £3, including tea and biscuits.

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Repton Beavers

Beavers have been working towards their Animal Carer badge, which will include a visit to Pets at Home in Burton. We now have 16 boys and girls in Beavers and have had to start a waiting list. Please contact Liz Massey-Beeston on 703314 if you want to know more about Beavers

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Repton Cubs

There has been a big influx of new Cubs after the summer break bringing total numbers up to 16, which is great news. If you saw water bombs flying across Mitre Field last month, that was the Cubs trying out their newly built launchers.

Activities in October include a visit to Swadlincote Ski Centre and preparing for a night hike and sleepover. If your son or daughter would like to try Cubs, please contact Jez Brooks on 07799 882338.

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Guides: new night, new time!

This term Guides moves to a new night and a new time. Meetings are now held at 7.15 - 8.45 pm on Mondays during term time.

Guides offers girls the chance to make new friends, play games, do activities and have fun. If you are aged 10 - 14 and want to do something a bit different, come along and find out what we're all about. For more information, contact Julia Banbury on 702226.

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Christmas Tree Festival
St Wystan's Church, Friday 9th - Monday 12th December

Many organisations and groups in the village will be decorating trees, but we would really like families to be part of the festival as well. The theme this year is 'Toys and Pastimes', which should give plenty of scope for decorations with a difference. We are aiming to raise funds for St Wystan's Church and the Children's Society.

If you would like to take part and would like more information please contact Audrey Morris on 703453 before the end of October. It would be lovely if you could join us.

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Repton Lunch Club ~ Drop-In

We are delighted that Maggie Tennant has volunteered to join Elaine in leading the Drop-In. This is a friendly and informal get-together for seniors, who meet in the Community Room at Fisher Close for a chat, a cup of tea and various activities.

Sessions start again on Friday 7th October at 2 pm, following the Lunch Club. If you would like to know more, please contact Elaine on 702322 or Maggie on 704590.

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Village Games

With the success of the jogging, table tennis and tai chi, Village Games is now looking for volunteers with an interest in helping to set up a project for the young people in Repton.

The group will give Repton youngsters the chance to express their creativity and develop their talents through a variety of activities they enjoy, and give them the opportunity to have a go at new things through sports, the arts and dance.

We are looking for volunteers who can spare a little time each week to come along and help out.

Volunteers come in all ages and have many different skills, which they can use to benefit both themselves and the community. You may be a dab hand on the computer, have a few minutes each week to take a register, have organisation skills, or be able to coach or lead sports; whatever your skills, and availability, you can bet they will be vital if this project is be become a success.

Please contact me if you would like to become involved or have any other ideas you think may be of benefit to the community.

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Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, 2nd - 5th June 2012

We are delighted to report that already Repton School has generously offered the use of Pears School for a suitable village event to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

Public Meeting, Monday 3rd October at 7.30 pm

This month's public meeting in Repton village hall is an opportunity for individuals and organisations in the village to become involved. Please come, both to show your support and to help form a strong steering committee, ensuring that we can make the Jubilee weekend a memorable occasion for the whole community.

For more information, or to offer help, ring John Perks, 702392, or Andy Austen, 702448.

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Mercian Handbells

Sadly we have decided that we can no longer continue. With dwindling numbers our practices have become increasingly disrupted, and in spite of many efforts to recruit new members from schools and the general public, we have had no response. If anyone would like to take over, we will be pleased to help in any way.

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Repton W.I.

After our summer break it was good to meet again for an interesting evening with Anna Doswell on the history of the corset. Anna is self-taught, having previously lectured in law, has a shop at Staunton Harold and specialises in making wedding and evening gowns. She told us how the corset had progressed from being an undergarment in the 15th and 16th centuries, intended to flatten the body rather than create shape, to the corsets today that are outerwear and emphasise the body, especially the waist.

We agreed to enter a Christmas tree in the church Christmas Tree Festival, and made arrangements for a visit to the Brewhouse Theatre; an evening at Pizza Express, learning how to make pizzas, is planned for next spring. Members were asked to sign up for the Group meeting in October at Ticknall village hall, hosted by Milton W.I. Finally we were thanked for our donation towards a new heating system at Denman College.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 11th October at 7.15 pm in the village hall: This will be the Annual Meeting, and members were invited to put their names forward for the committee. Visitors are welcome to join us. There will be refreshments so don't eat too much before you come!

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Repton Village Show 2011

This year's show was another success, with plenty of exhibits for visitors to enjoy. Congratulations to all the individual competitors for the high standard of entries.

Winners of the special prizes and cups:

George Johnson	Boot Trophy	Best vegetable exhibit
Alan Peach	John Crockett Trophy	Most points in the vegetable section
George Johnson	Argyle Trophy	Best fruit exhibit
Joanna Hands	Marjorie Boddice Trophy	5 garden perennials
Janet Dench	McLean Cup	Best rose exhibit
Liz Massey-Beeston	Silver Tray	Best produce exhibit
Ruth Attwood	Photographic Shield
Alan Peach	Cup	Best flower exhibit
Alan Webster	Handicraft Plate
Robert Thompson	Zak's Cup	Most points in the children's section

Thank you to all who came to see the exhibits and who took part in an excellent auction afterwards, with special thanks once again to our auctioneer, Adrian Argyle.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

• Repton School Science Priory: If approved, this three storey building will be situated in a very prominent position above the swimming pool and alongside Jeremiah's Walk. However, the location has been chosen following extensive consultation between representatives of the school and SDDC planning officials. In consequence, Repton Parish Council has confined its comments to expressing concern that the car parking provision may be inadequate, and that exit visibility on to Willington Road is very poor. The target date for determination of the application is 18th October.



• Planning Reform: Repton Parish Council has called on Heather Wheeler MP to oppose inclusion of 'a presumption in favour of sustainable development' within the proposed new National Planning Policy Framework. Whilst recognising the national need for more homes, councillors firmly believe that building new homes and businesses on greenfield land should be considered only as an absolute last resort.



• Repton Brook: Following on from the information last month, we can now advise that, should you be concerned about possible flooding, there is an abundance of flood mitigation products available. Grants may also be available through the Environmental Health Department at South Derbyshire District Council. Further details are available from Tim Summers on 01283 595950.
  
  Other important contacts: Environment Agency Incident Hotline: 0800 807060; Floodline: 0845 9881188; Customer Services: 08708 506506.
  
  Please remember that if you border Repton Brook, it is important that you clear any debris from the side of the riverbank.



• Arboretum: Over the next few weeks the Parish Council will be checking the condition of the trees planted last autumn. Unfortunately a few have not survived; those affected will be replaced. Any new planting will take place over the next couple of months.



• Summer Holiday Activities: The activities organized by the Parish Council have again proved to be a great success. Attendance increased by 17% this year, with a total of 215 local young people enjoying the varied, free sessions on offer. We hope to be able to provide this scheme again next summer.



• Diamond Jubilee Celebrations: The Council welcomed the involvement of Councillors in organising the celebrations in Repton, and nominated Councillor Perks, who is Chairman of Repton Enabling Fund, as its representative to chair the steering committee.

Next meeting: Monday 10th October at 7.30 pm in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton.

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

The magazine deadline comes too early for us this month, but I hope to report next month on Cliff Warner's talk on 'Humour on the Magistrates Bench'.

It's Milton's turn to host the Group meeting on 20th October - 7.30 pm in Ticknall village hall. The theme is 'something wild', and the competition is a 'jungle' hand glove puppet. Mercia Group members should be prepared for a fun and educational evening.

Next Meeting: Wednesday 19th October at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall. AGM. As we do not have a speaker at the AGM, it is a good opportunity for members to mingle and chat, whilst enjoying the delicious refreshments provided by our hostesses.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E (Aided) Infants School

At the start of the autumn term we welcome back pupils and families, as well as our new Reception children joining the school.

Community Collective Worship, Thursday 6th October at 9.15 am

Community Collective Worship will now be on the first Thursday morning of the month at 9.15 in the school hall. The remaining dates for this term are 3rd November and 1st December. You are most welcome to come along.

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Newton Solney W.I.

President Hazel Ward welcomed everyone back after the summer break. Jo Parfitt was thanked for transporting our cakes to St Giles Hospice, Margaret Acford for arranging our visit to the Staffordshire Hoard, and Jean and Doug Burns for hosting our Summer Buffet. Members were reminded about the Pie & Puds lunch on Saturday 1st October, and were asked to sign up to provide a pie or a pud. We are also looking for volunteers to help on the day, along with donations for the Bottle Stall.

The walk organised by Briz Valley W.I. has been cancelled. Mulberry Room lunches started again at the end of September. On Thursday 20th October, a group of us will be attending the Group meeting at Ticknall Village Hall hosted by Milton W.I. Members were asked to volunteer to make our competition entry, a 'jungle' glove puppet. Members were invited to sign up for our Birthday Meal at the Newton Park Hotel on 17th November. Plans for our Christmas meeting were outlined and members invited to volunteer to form part of the entertainment group.

Our speaker for the evening was Terry Williams who presented a series of scenic slides of interesting and unusual places set to music. Terry explained that most of these had been taken whilst he was out cycling.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 11th October: Chris Knight's talk is entitled 'Auntie, the War's over!' Whist Drive: Tuesday 25th October. Both welcome new members; note that the whist drive is open to members and non-members alike. Both are at 7.30 pm in the village hall.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

After St Mary's Ploughman's Lunch and a very informative September business meeting, we heard a light-hearted talk by Doug Burns on how he met his wife, Jean.

Tuesday 4th October, 2.30 pm

A business meeting will be followed by a talk on 'Drug Awareness' by a member of Her Majesty's Prison Service from Sudbury.

Tuesday 11th October

We have organised a scenic coach tour into Derbyshire, leaving the Unicorn Inn at 9.30, and calling for a two course lunch before returning to Newton Solney for 3 pm. The total cost of the tour and lunch is £16. Payment by 4th October please.

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Newton Solney Parish Council News

Recreation Hut: The Recreation Hut is now nearing completion. A big thank you to everyone who has contributed time and effort to make the refurbishment a success.

Low Carbon Village Project: It appears that a large proportion of village residents may not have received any information from EON regarding the grants available for cavity wall insulation. In order to give everyone the opportunity to take advantage of this excellent offer, we will be sending out a letter containing full information about the scheme to all Newton Solney parishioners in the next couple of weeks. The deadline has been extended to the 31st October to allow for further applications.

Next Meeting: Friday 14th October at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

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Further Afield

The Big Draw, Saturday 8th October, Willington Village Hall

Willington Arts Festival is aiming at getting everyone to draw - including all our readers. Do drop in between 10 am and 4.30 pm to 'make your mark'. Don't worry if you don't think you can draw - you might well surprise yourself! There is a corner for the kiddies, graffiti art for the teenagers and a community draw with metres and metres of paper for all, as well as the Big Draw Café. Entrance is free and equipment just waiting to be used!

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Gardening Notes

Perhaps this year we shall have a mild winter, but the only certainty, it seems, is that weather is unpredictable; we will be well advised to prepare for the worst.

Lift dahlias and cannas, and store in a frost-proof place. Where you can, move other tender plants into the greenhouse, adding extra protection to those that cannot be moved. Where suitable, take cuttings as well. Wrap sacking or bubble wrap around containers left outside, and stand clay pots on bricks to lessen the risk of cracking.

Insulate the greenhouse with bubble wrap, and consider partitioning off and heating only the part with tender plants. Check that the heater is in good order. However, even a cold frame provides a fair amount of protection, especially if you cover it with an old blanket or carpet when frost is forecast.

Plant out winter lettuce plants in a cold frame, and sow sweet peas to overwinter there.

Plant up prepared bulbs for Christmas flowering and complete the planting of spring bulbs outdoors, but leave tulips till November to lessen the risk of tulip fire disease. Plant lilies too, if available; they will start to root whilst the soil is still warm. Some lilies root from the base only and need planting to the height of the bulb; others root from the stem as well and should be planted deeper, at three times the height of the bulb.

In the border, cut perennials like phlox, campanulas and delphiniums down to ground level, but leave any that still look attractive or provide food for birds. Don't compost any material affected by powdery mildew, as the spores will persist in the compost. Plant wallflowers.

This is usually a good time of year to apply a thick mulch to the border, but first make sure that the soil underneath is thoroughly moist; it will protect from frost and drought.

Protect winter salad crops with fleece. Tidy up the strawberry bed, removing old foliage and unwanted runners. If tomatoes are slow to ripen, pick them green and put them in a paper bag together with a ripe banana! It releases a gas that encourages ripening.

Finish lifting potatoes. Parsnips can be left in the ground, but beetroot and carrots are also better lifted. Remove yellowing leaves from brassicas. Lift and divide old rhubarb crowns. Plant spring cabbage and protect them from pigeons. Don't add fertiliser now, which might encourage strong, soft growth, but leave till spring, when a high nitrogen fertiliser would be appropriate.

There is still time to plant garlic cloves. It was formerly thought that they only grew well in the south; they can cope with cold, but not with too much damp. Some people leave planting them until November, and you can leave them until spring. Plant three inches deep, six to eight inches apart, and they will be ready next autumn.

Apply grease bands to fruit trees to protect from winter moth. A national campaign is encouraging us to grow more fruit trees to compensate for the huge loss of orchards; apart from espalier or cordon trained fruit trees, there is a wide choice of dwarfing rootstocks, which means that trees can be grown in quite small spaces.

Take hardwood cuttings of roses, dogwoods, willows, cotinus and other similar plants. October is a good time to plant or move conifers and other evergreens.

After such a dry summer, it might be a good idea to apply autumn lawn fertiliser. This is low in nitrogen and higher in phosphates, encouraging root growth rather than leaf.

Thin out underwater plants in the pond, and remove old water lily leaves. This will lessen the accumulation of toxic gases if the pond freezes.

Feed the birds!

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O&S

The European Health Insurance Card

If last month's article on the EHIC prompts you to renew your card online, or to take one out for the first time, be careful which website you use. At the official website, www.ehic.org.uk, it is free; other websites charge up to £14.99. Alternatively, you can apply by calling the automated phone service at 0845 606 2030.