December 2012 - Contents Share love this Christmas and you share in God Himself Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Benefice Christmas Services 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 Christmas at the URC Shell (for children aged 7+) Coffee Morning Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages Laura Cross and Malcolm Lee Alice McCartney and Stuart Robinson Obituaries Dorothy MacDonald The Memorial Book Derby Diocese and the wider Church Who are the Church Commissioners? Repton Benefice Remembrance Day St Wystan's News Group Meetings Mapping the Future St Saviour's News Foremark Church Roof Local Diary Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 5th December Santa & his Sleigh Land in Repton, Friday 7th December Rainbows Christmas Concert, Friday 7th December URC Children's Christmas Nativity Services: Baboushka! Sunday 16th Christingle @ Messy Church, Sunday 16th December RBL Children's Christmas Party, Saturday 22nd December Environment Matters Flooding Ash Dieback You and your Pet Is it just old age? Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome Neighbourhood Watch South Derbyshire Stamp & Deliver Home-Start What's On in South Derbyshire Repton Village and History Repton Rags Repton Beavers Repton Cubs Sponsor a Stone and Save Our Spire! Calling all Road Cyclists Harvest at St Wystan's School SD Sports Awards Repton W.I. Stocking Fillers Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E Infant School Children's Society Box Collection Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council News Gardening Notes

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Share love this Christmas and you share in God Himself

A great Christmas tradition of mine is to watch 'The Muppet Christmas Carol'. If you have not seen it, then do watch out for it. It stars Michael Caine as Scrooge and, well, the Muppets play the rest! Nowadays my children delight in watching it as much as I. While we sing along to all the songs, they are still amazed that I know it so well I anticipate what is about to be said. It will not be long before they too will know the whole film by heart. The three ghosts - Christmas past, present and future - are wonderfully portrayed. My favourite is the Ghost of Christmas Present. He is a big, bigger, huge and yet tiny Santa Claus type figure (you have to watch it to know what I mean) whose catch phrase is 'Know me better, man!'

With the approach of Christmas, even in the midst of all the busy-ness, we often find ourselves looking at where we are in life. It can be one of those times of reflection. We can think of past Christmases; of people we shared them with who are no longer alive; of where we were and how we celebrated. We can look at the present Christmas and try to make it the best yet by doing something different, or simply by sticking to what has served us well in the past. And we can even find ourselves anticipating next Christmas by making up our mind that 'Next year is going to be very different!'

Of course at the heart of my Christmas is not the Muppets but Christ. It saddens me that so many forget this. Like sitting down to a Christmas feast (apologies to vegetarians) with all the trimmings but no turkey, celebrating Christmas without Christ is missing out on what could be so much more special. With families gathering together, with those who are homeless being cared and catered for, with a season of goodwill and bright lights and holiday and the sparkle in young children's eyes, Christmas can be a special time. But so often it falls short. Why? Could it be that, in too many people's lives and much of our society, Christ has been left out of Christmas?

Whenever I hear the Ghost of Christmas Present say 'Know me better, man', I imagine Jesus saying 'Know me better' into the ear of everyone. It is why we have Christmas after all - celebrating and giving thanks that God came to us in human form so that we might get to know him better! But if getting to know Jesus is a step too far for you to take this Christmas, don't worry, there is still much to celebrate and make it extra-special. In a song that the Ghost sings to Scrooge, there are the lines: "In all the places you find love, it feels like Christmas" and "It's all the ways that we show love that feels like Christmas". It is so true. Love is at the heart of our being. Love is why God created us; why we have Christmas; what makes us human; is the Spirit of God that is the essence of life itself. Share love this Christmas and you share in God Himself.

I hope and pray you have a good and blessed Christmas but leave the last word to the Muppets who sing in the same song: "It is the season of the Spirit, the message if you hear it, is 'make it last all year'."

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

Christmas Services

Christingle Service at St Mary's: Sunday 2nd December at 10 am This will form part of the Family Service. Everyone will be most welcome to join in this Celebration of the Light of Christ.

Advent Carol Service at St Wystan's: Sunday 2nd December at 6 pm

This service of candlelight and soft illuminations is a lovely way to celebrate the start of the Advent season. The service will include well known Advent carols and hymns sung by the congregation, together with Advent motets and anthems sung by the Wystan Singers. Readings for Advent anticipate the coming of Christ and the Christmas story. Do note the early start, which will allow you to go on afterwards to the MusSoc Concert in Pears School.

Parish Communion and Gift Service at St Wystan's: Sunday 9th December at 9.45 am

With the change that took place last year, we no longer send wrapped presents for the children of families supported by Home-Start South Derbyshire, but our gift to them is to support the work of Home-Start itself. In these challenging times for all organisations that rely on charitable giving, what we can give will be a great help to them, and they are enormously grateful for it. If you would like to contribute, please bring cash or a cheque payable to 'Home-Start South Derbyshire'. Your gifts will be received during the service as usual, and a representative from Home Start will be at the service to tell us more about their work. See also page 12.

MESSY Christingle at St Wystan's: Sunday 16th December at 4 pm

We have got used to the traditional Christingle services, raising money for the work of the Children's Society, with the vicar explaining the meaning of the Christingle and telling the story of how it came about. But this year we look forward to a MESSY Christingle! How will it be celebrated? How will the story be told? Will we worship in the dark with only the light of the Christingles to dispel the gloom? Come and find out!

Christmas Carols by Candlelight: Sundays 9th and 23rd December

The churches will be candlelit for these popular services.

9th: St Saviour's at 6.30 pm

At Foremark we welcome the boarders from Foremarke School, and the Chamber Choir will sing anthems. Afterwards, by the kind invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Merriman, there will be coffee and mince pies in the assembly hall.

23rd: St Mary's at 4 pm The warm cosy atmosphere of St Mary's lends itself to a candlelit service. With traditional readings and well known carols this service will warm the hearts of everyone who comes.

23rd: St Wystan's at 6.30 pm

Re-introduced this year is the traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols, similar to that which will be broadcast from King's Chapel on Christmas Eve. Hearing the Christmas story as well as listening to and joining in some wonderful carols will remind our hearts and minds of what Christmas really means.

Crib Service at St Wystan's: Christmas Eve, 4 pm

Children bring a figure from the crib scene up to the front, and we build up the tableau as the Christmas story is told. Pupils from Repton Primary School will have received one of the crib figures to take home for a night during Advent as a way of welcoming Jesus into their home and preparing for Christmas. When they return to school the next day, they are encouraged to say what they have done with the figure. Several of them will come to the service and hear the story of the first Christmas. The Church Army introduced this way of preparing for Christmas and so we make a retiring collection for their work in disadvantaged urban communities in our country.

Midnight Communion: Christmas Eve, 11.30 pm

This is the first Communion of Christmas, and at this hour during the night when Christ was born a very special service indeed. Come, sing popular carols and share together on this most blessed of nights.

Christmas Day Services

Repton at 8 am, Foremarke at 9.15 am, and Newton Solney at 10 am

Christmas Communion.

St Wystan's, Family Carol Service at 10.30 am

With its focus on children and traditional carols, the Family Carol Service is always one of the most popular Christmas services. Come along, join in, and share the true spirit of Christmas.

Benefice Communion, Sunday 30th December, St Wystan's at 9.45 am

A 'Chance to Pause in God's Presence' in the midst of this period between Christmas and the New Year. Take a break from the sales and come to worship!

New Year's Eve Watch-night Service

The Watch-night Service at 11.30 pm welcomes in the New Year and will be followed by bell-ringing, refreshments and, hopefully, fireworks as well.

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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Christmas at the URC

Sunday 16 December

The children will be presenting the Christmas musical, 'Baboushka!' at both services. The evening service will be followed by coffee and mince pies.

Sunday 23 December

In the morning, a chance to make your own Christingle to take home, and in the evening, Candlelight Carols will be followed by coffee and mince pies.

Christmas Day

A short family celebration on Christmas morning! Remember to bring one of your presents with you!

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Shell Group

. . . for children and young people aged 7 and over, meets at 6.30 pm on Monday 3rd December for a Christmas Quiz and on 10th December to rehearse the Nativity Play. New members are always welcome.

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Coffee Morning

The next Coffee Morning will be on Saturday 12th January from 10.30 - 11.30 am.

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Marriages

Laura Cross and Malcolm Lee were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 27th October.

Alice McCartney, formerly of Repton, and Stuart Robinson of Melbourne were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 17th November.

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Obituaries

Dorothy MacDonald
27th August 1922 - 9th October 2012

Born Dorothy Adams at Gordon Villa on Repton High Street, Dorothy was the youngest of three children. Her family was firmly rooted in the village and she was related to many of the older village families; her great, great grandfather was the Rev'd John Pattinson, vicar of Repton from 1804 to 1843, and her grandmother, Stella Pattinson, owned the post office; a postcard showing the old frontage with Stella in the doorway is still available today.

When Dorothy was only three, her father passed away and it was left to her mother and father's sister to bring the children up. Her mother also worked in the post office as the telegraph operator.

Educated at the village school and then at Burton High School for Girls, Dorothy passed all the exams needed for a career in nursing. She had been offered a position at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, her uniform had been purchased, and she was ready to go when the Second World War broke out. Her elder sister, Rosamund, joined the A.T.S., and her brother, Reginald, the R.A.F., but with her mother working in the post office, it was decided that Dorothy would remain at home and help to look after evacuees, one of whom was present at her funeral.

The war brought a number of eligible young men to the village; at a dance in Repton village hall in 1942 Dorothy met and very soon afterwards married Gordon MacDonald, a sergeant in the Army Air Corps (Glider Pilot Regiment), stationed at Burnaston Airport. By the time Gordon passed away in 2007, they had been married for over 64 years, and brought up two daughters.

When, after the war, Gordon embarked on a career with British Rail, Dorothy took on the role of housewife and carer, looking after her mother and the two children. Gordon's employment took them for a while to Reading, but on retirement in 1974 they returned to Repton living first in the High Street and then in Monsom Lane.

With one of their daughters now living in New Zealand, retirement was also an opportunity to travel widely, but Dorothy's life was Repton. For many years she and Gordon were active members of the British Legion. She helped out at the Christmas parties and was always to be found selling poppies before Remembrance. In her younger days she had been a member of the W.I., and later in life she enjoyed being part of the U.R.C. sewing circle; they produced some excellent cross-stitch as well as taking the opportunity for a good gossip.

With six grand-children, two great grand-children and many friends, Dorothy's 90th birthday was a joyous occasion. She will be fondly remembered.

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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 vicar.

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Derby Diocese

Who are the Church Commissioners?

If we know anything at all about the Church Commissioners, it is probably that not long ago, they owned most of the land round Repton that didn't belong to the Calke Estate or the school. Oh, and that twenty years ago, the growing cost of clergy pensions led them to over-invest in commercial property; a sharp decline in the early 1990s led to considerable losses and an agonised reappraisal of what could be afforded.

When the Church Commissioners were set up in 1948, they inherited the historic property assets of the Church of England, including Queen Anne's Bounty, a fund dating from 1704 for the relief of poor clergy, and of the Ecclesiastical Commissioners. The latter had been created by Parliament in 1836 to reorganize dioceses, abolish surplus posts in cathedrals and take over both the responsibility for funding bishops and some cathedral costs. They had a major role in financing churches for the new population centres that grew up during the Industrial Revolution.

There are 33 Commissioners, including the two Archbishops, four bishops, and six ex-officio members: the Prime Minister, the Lord President of the Council, the Home Secretary, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, and the Speakers of both Houses of Parliament.

Currently they manage £5.2 bn of investments, and contribute around 17% of the Church's total running costs - in 2011 that was more than £190 million. Almost all the rest comes from parishes and dioceses, largely from what we give.

At £114.6 million in 2011, clergy pensions are still their greatest expense; although the Commissioners remain responsible for pension entitlements earned before 1998, from then on the costs were transferred to the parishes. Bishops' stipends, working costs and - for diocesan bishops - their houses cost £30.8m, and cathedrals receive £8.4m, targeted at those most in need, to pay for the work of cathedral deans and two stipendiary canons. In addition, £37.7m supports ministry in the neediest dioceses; this is of particular value to Derby, which, as a result, is a substantial net beneficiary of national Church funding.

Apart from their financial responsibilities, the Commissioners also oversee pastoral reorganisation, their consent being required for establishing or dissolving team and group ministries, uniting, creating or dissolving benefices and parishes, and for closing consecrated church buildings and graveyards.

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Repton Benefice

Remembrance Day

Blest with glorious weather, the procession from the Royal British Legion Club to St Wystan's marched along a dry road with standards flying. By the time that those in the procession had taken their seats the church was comfortably full. I do apologise if you were left without an Order of Service; numbers in the congregation were even greater than last year, and we had not printed enough.

It was wonderful once again to see such good support from the local Scout and Guide movements. However, the numbers of young children exceeded our expectations, and we will have to plan more generously next year.

The standard bearers play an important role in the service and did us proud. We thank Sam Auterson (Beavers), Dan Horsey (Cubs), Ellie Palmer (Guides), Charlotte Robinson (Brownies) and Jo Noble (Repton British Legion).

As well as leading our prayers, Gerald Gibbs read this reflection issued by the United Reformed Churches:

There will be peace

After the service the sunshine enticed almost everyone to gather around the War Memorial for the laying of the wreaths. These were laid by Roger Chapman, Deputy Lieutenant of Derbyshire, on behalf of the Queen, by Nat Warner, the President of the Repton Royal British Legion, Chris Jerram on behalf of Repton Parish Council, Peter Smith for SDDC and Martin Ford for DCC, Camilla Ceccon and Lucy d'Angibau, and Izac Dring-Myatt and Abigail Soutar on behalf of Repton Primary and St Wystan's Schools respectively. With the Deputy Lieutenant taking the salute at The Cross the procession made its way back to the Legion where refreshment was to hand.

Newton Solney

At the Service of Remembrance at St Mary's, members of all the armed forces who have given their lives in conflicts over the past century were remembered. Fred Hill, the Chairman of the Parish Council, read the lesson from Micah (4:1-5) and laid a wreath of poppies at the War Memorial in the Church, and our most senior church member, Don Sherwin, who served with the RAF during the Second World War, read the familiar words of Laurence Binyon and the Kohima Epitaph.

Foremark

St Saviour's held a Service of Remembrance in the evening. With Foremarke School Choir and representatives of the school helping to lead the worship, all those who came - parents, local people and myself - appreciated the contributions made by the young people. It was wonderful to hear the Last Post and Reveille played by four trumpeters, and my left ear - only a yard away - has just about recovered! As in St Wystan's, I was privileged to read the names of those who went from our communities to fight in the various wars but did not return. We truly have so much to be thankful to them for.

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St Wystan's News

Groups

Intercessory Prayer for Healing

. . . next meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 3rd December.

Living the Word

There is no meeting during December.

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Mapping the Future

As part of our 'Mission Action' Planning, twenty-five members of St Wystan's Church congregation met in October to think about future priorities and how we can best serve the local community. We were joined by representatives from the URC, Repton School, and village organisations.

After considering our current strengths and weaknesses and future opportunities and threats, we looked at a vision statement and began thinking how to put our ideas into effect.

A summary of the points raised is available from the vicar. A task group is now looking at them, identifying ideas that can be taken forward as part of our existing work, and highlighting up to three priorities for new initiatives. These will be taken to the Parochial Church Council's meeting early in the New Year. In the meantime, the PCC has agreed a mission statement based on our discussions.

Mission Statement

We believe that God calls us in Christ to be a loving community;
guided by the Bible, tradition, and the Holy Spirit;
grounded in worship and prayer;
expressing our Christian faith in all that we do.

Vision

In five years' time we will be:
people sharing Christian love, joy and hope;
a welcoming, all-age church community;
offering worship appropriate to the needs of our family and the local community;
a focus for Christian growth, nurture, encouragement and support for everyone;
involved throughout the community, serving others by meeting local needs;
engaged with other Christian communities in mission and ministry.

A display at the back of the church gives more information. If you have questions or ideas, please talk to a member of the task group, the vicar, churchwardens, Ruth Attwood, Richard Finch, George Johnson and Stephen Longden.

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St Saviour's News

Foremark Church Roof

I am delighted to say that, thanks to the great generosity of an anonymous donor, a felt roof has been laid to protect St Saviour's Church. Now we can turn our attention to fundraising for the stainless steel covering that is needed following the repeated attention of lead thieves.

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 5th December from 12.30 to 1.30 pm in St Wystan's Church £4.   Homemade soup, bread and cheese followed by coffee.   And a chat! Everyone welcome. Do come!

Santa & his Sleigh Land in Repton Friday 7th December, starting at about 6.30 pm from Main Street, sleighing into High Street, Askew Grove, Springfield Road, Longlands, Meadow Close, Hill View, Pinfold Close, Pinfold Lane. Please allow time for Santa to arrive in your area All proceeds go to charity. Thank you for your support. Swadlincote Round Table

Rainbows Christmas Concert An Evening of Festive Music with Derbyshire Constabulary Male Voice Choir Your chance to sing along to festive favourites! St Wystan's Church, Friday 7th December at 7.30 pm Mulled Wine &Mince Pies Available For Tickets, £5, call Rainbows on 01509 638 009 or www.rainbows.co.uk/christmas In aid of Rainbows Children's Hospice

URC Children's Christmas Nativity Services Baboushka! Our children and young people present the traditional story with new songs Sunday 16th December, 11 am and 6.30 pm

Christingle @ Messy Church Come and make your own Christingle, share in a short service and stay for tea A collection will be taken for the work of The Children's Society for all the family St Wystan's Church, Sunday 16th December, 4 to 5.30 pm To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or .

Repton Royal British Legion Children's Christmas Party Sat 22nd December, 2 - 4 pm Surprise Guest Appearance! Members' Children Only: Tickets from RBL

Environment Matters

Flooding

Flooding is a serious issue, and increasingly heavy rainfall over the past few years suggests that the risk of flooding could be growing.

Derbyshire County Council has received new powers to help prevent, protect against, and prepare for the effects of flooding in the future, and is currently preparing a 'Local Flood Risk Management Strategy'.

Larger rivers such as the Derwent, Dove and Trent are still the responsibility of the Environment Agency and will be covered in a separate plan. DCC is looking specifically at the risk of flooding from: surface water caused by extreme rainfall; small 'ordinary' watercourses such as ditches, streams and brooks; ground water and water flowing from underground springs; drainage on roads.

There are things that residents and communities can do too:

• If your property is at all vulnerable, keep up to date. Sign up to receive flood warnings from the Environment Agency by email, phone or text. Register your details with the Environment Agency; search for 'floodline' online, or call 0845 988 1188. You can also visit the Met Office website, metoffice.gov.uk, for up-to-date weather information.
• Blocked streams, brooks, ditches, drains and culverts can often contribute to flooding. If you spot a blockage, report it: online at derbyshire.gov.uk/reportit or phone 08456 058 058.
• Protect your property. There are many products available from sandbags to water resistant barriers and doors, and valves for your drains to stop water getting into your property through the sewerage system. The National Flood Forum can advise you about suitable products and insurance. Search for 'National Flood Forum'.
• Residents and businesses at risk of flooding can order a free pack of empty sandbags to help with property protection. Ring 08456 058 058. DCC is also keen to work with parish councils and local flood groups willing to stockpile sandbags close to vulnerable areas, ready to distribute when needed.

Serious Flooding in Repton

. . . has mostly been caused by blockages to the Brook. As reported last month, the Parish Council has persuaded the Environment Agency to do its bit and remove 25 tons of silt. However, riparian landowners also have a major part to play, as debris from gardens has been a significant cause of blockages. Please don't throw garden rubbish into the Brook, and don't leave by the brook anything that may be swept into it by high water. If fallen trees or branches threaten to block the Brook, please clear them yourself, or report them as above.

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Ash Dieback

This is a serious disease of ash trees caused by the fungus, Chalara fraxinea. It causes leaf loss and crown dieback, and usually leads to the tree dying.

Since 1992, ash trees suffering with the infection have been found widely across Europe, in forests, urban areas such as parks and gardens, and also in tree nurseries.

In February 2012 the disease was found in trees sent from a nursery in the Netherlands to a nursery in Buckinghamshire. Since then it has been found in a many locations in Britain. All had received stocks of young ash plants from nurseries within the past five years. However, in October, a small number of cases were confirmed at sites in East Anglia which appear to have no association with recently supplied nursery stock. Similar finds were later confirmed in Kent, Essex and other counties.

C. fraxinea is being treated as a quarantine pest under national emergency measures, and it is important that suspected cases of the disease are reported.

The disease could have a devastating impact on our native ash trees, so hundreds of staff from government agencies were out in early November checking ash trees across the UK. Plant health experts also undertook an urgent survey of about a thousand sites which have received saplings (young trees) from nurseries where Chalara dieback has been found.

Further information is available on the Forestry Commission website. If you suspect any cases of the disease locally, please report them to the Forestry Commission Plant Health Service on 0131 314 6414.

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You and your Pet

Is it just old age? Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome

Scientists believe that Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) is caused by chemical and physical changes affecting brain function in older pets. Both cats and dogs may show behavioural changes that are not a normal part of aging.

Pets, particularly dogs over 8, are more likely to display signs of cognitive decline. They may appear confused, forgetful or less responsive. They can become less sociable and appear disorientated within their own homes. They may sleep more and have more 'accidents' around the house.

Signs to look out for are: not greeting you in the same way; disorientation; loss of house training; change in activity level; change to the pattern of sleep and waking.

Disorientation implies not recognizing familiar faces, pets, people and places; sometimes they even get lost in familiar places. They may interact less with family members and not want to play, or they may bark for no apparent reason.

Pets can often wander and pace more aimlessly and may appear depressed. They may also sleep more in the day and become restless and awake at night.

They may toilet at random points in the house, appearing to be unaware they are going. It is not unusual to go outside to toilet but then toilet when they are back inside.

What can we do?

There are some medications that help dogs as they get older, especially with dullness and lethargy. These can increase a dog's willingness to exercise and also its exercise tolerance. As pets age, they produce fewer anti-oxidants to fight free radicals that destroy brain cells; some products supplement anti-oxidants to try to slow the rate of destruction.

There are also practical things we can do to make things easier for older pets:

• For those losing sight, avoid moving furniture around unnecessarily.
• Loss of hearing and sight may mean your pets sleep more deeply and don't hear you coming. Make sure that children know to be quiet and slow around them.
• Soft beds help greatly with older joints; you can even get beds with memory foam.

If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Christmas is a busy time for all of us and that includes the burglars and con men and women who see it as a time for easy pickings. Fit a burglar alarm, keep valuables out of sight and mark possessions so that they can be returned to you if they are stolen and recovered. When you are going out, close the curtains and put lights and radio on. If you are going away, ask your neighbours to pop in from time to time to give your home that lived-in feel.

Derby County Fans: On home match days, you can use the Derbyshire Constabulary Twitter feed to find information such as where to park, details of any road closures or traffic problems, and - particularly relevant in bad weather - whether the match is still on. The tweets are sent out by officers in charge of policing matches at Pride Park, and give real-time information. @DCFCPolice.

Scamwatch: There are so many bank and credit card scams that it's impossible to outline them all. A number, however, work similarly, by persuading you that your card needs renewing owing to a fraud on the account. You are asked to key in your pin number on the phone and a courier is sent out to collect the card. The card is then sent direct to the criminal who also has the pin number. The moral is simple. Never hand over your card to anyone who comes to the door; never enter your pin number over the telephone; whenever you contact the bank, always use its advertised number.

Many of us feel confident that we can spot fraudsters, but the 'success' of these scams shows just how wrong we can be.

Scamwatch 2: Three warning of scams are currently circulating. Although they have been around for a while, they have actually happened in the past.

In one, the fraudster leaves a card asking you to call a number to arrange delivery of a parcel. Beware! It may be an attempt to lure you to a premium rate number; some of these have eye-wateringly high charges. If a delivery service doesn't have an internet site, it is probably fake. In a similar scam, a message on your answerphone gives a number to ring back to receive very important information.

Another scam involves the unexpected delivery of a gift such as flowers. The delivery man explains that there is a small token fee that must be paid by credit card swiped through a machine that he has with him. This process copies your credit card and PIN number.

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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South Derbyshire

Stamp & Deliver: Derby & District Scouts deliver your Christmas mail

Stamp & Deliver is run entirely by volunteers as part of a programme that encourages Scouts to be friendly, tolerant and helpful. All profits from the sale of stamps go to local Scout and Guide Groups and local charities.

During the early years Scouts made deliveries during the week. Nowadays deliveries take place at weekends, when those under 16 can be supervised by an adult.

Stamps cost only 20p!

For details of the delivery area, look out for the leaflet through your letter box, but in general it includes all of Derby, its suburbs and surroundings extending to Breaston in the east, Belper to the north, Hatton and Hilton to the west, and Melbourne and Breedon to the south. Lists of the delivery areas are on each of the post boxes. Please don't include cards for other areas; they can't be delivered. For further information, see stampanddeliver.com or call the hotline on 07930 760 655 between 3rd and 17th December.

The first collection will be on Monday 3rd December, and the final collection at 3 pm on Monday 17th December, when all sales points will be closed. Cards will be delivered by Christmas Eve. Please remember to use the postcode.

You can buy stamps and post cards in the distinctive yellow posting boxes at:

Repton: the Dales; Mulberry Beauty Salon; Redshaws Family Butchers; Royal British Legion; Samaras; the Spar Shop.
Milton: the Swan Inn.
Newton Solney: the Village Store; Cranberries Hair Salon; Jim Ward, 11 Blacksmith's Lane.

We are indebted to them all for the time and effort they willingly give each year.

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Home-Start

At the 'Gift Service' on Sunday 9th December, St Wystan's congregation will again be giving gifts of money to Home-Start South Derbyshire, to help fund its next training course.

Home-Start supports parents with at least one child under five. The charity originated in Leicester in the early 1970s, when Margaret Harrison, a voluntary worker there, recognized the extent to which parents need support through difficult times. Now there are 334 local Home-Starts across the United Kingdom and with British Forces in Germany and Cyprus. Despite its wide reach, the work it does, with individual volunteers supporting individual families, is intensely small-scale and local.

Families need support for all sorts of reasons, from postnatal illness to disability, illness to bereavement, sleeping problems to social isolation. Volunteers visit them in their own home offering informal, friendly and confidential support, helping them to get on their feet again and enjoy their family life. Some need help for only a few months, others for much longer.

Volunteers come from many different backgrounds and vary in age, but all are parents. They are carefully selected for their friendliness, understanding and ability to maintain confidentiality. Parents who have been visited often become volunteers themselves. They are neither paid nor are they professionals, so they don't replace the Health Visitor or Social Worker. After training they give about 2-3 hours a week of their time; their expenses are paid and they are supported with training and regular supervision.

Home-Start is currently recruiting volunteers

The next preparation course starts on 29th January. It covers issues such as confidentiality, safeguarding and working with families and children, and runs for eight weeks from 9.30 am - 2.30 pm at Newhall Children's Centre. After that, volunteers will be matched with a family.

If you are interested and have parenting experience, please call 01283 225586 to find out more, or see homestartsouthderbyshire.org.uk. You could change a family's life; you'll certainly change your own!

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What's On in South Derbyshire

Whether you are looking for something to do with the children at Christmas, or just want to get out and about in South Derbyshire, the latest issue of 'What's On' gives lots of suggestions for walks, talks, concerts, events and activities throughout the District and in The National Forest. To find it on the SDDC website, search for 'What's On in South Derbyshire'. The guide is also available at Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre at Sharpe's Pottery.

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Repton Village & History

Repton Rags Boys & girls aged 8 to 14 Fun and games, indoors and out, and plenty of time to chat with your friends Every Saturday from 6 to 7.30 pm at the Den      £1 a head Come along and have fun!       More info from Julie Groom, 0797 4998852

Repton Beavers

Beavers coincided with Bonfire night, and they had a firework-themed evening. They also got a taste for the hot and spicy with an evening sampling Indian food. Then, on a beautiful morning, twelve Beavers turned out for Remembrance Sunday service and parade.

Christmas activities planned for December include cake decorating and carol singing at the Dales. If your child would like to join Beavers or you would like more information, contact Andy Read, 07790 909138.

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Repton Cubs

Well done to all Cubs who turned out for Remembrance Sunday!

In November, Cubs were joined by four resuscitation dummies for an evening as they practised their CPR. They have also been practising juggling, stilt walking, balloon modelling and unicycle riding as they prepare for a performance of their circus skills at the Den on 5th December. December will also see the last Cubs meeting for eight of our Cubs who will be moving up to Scouts after Christmas.

If your child would like to join Cubs or you would like more information, contact Jez Brooks on 07799 882338.

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Sponsor a Stone and Save Our Spire!

To help raise the money needed to save this iconic landmark, we invite you to 'sponsor a stone'. A board in St Wystan's Church shows the Spire with its stones marked out. Most cost £10, there are some at £5, and the capping stones cost £50.

If you would like to sponsor a stone, please contact Melodie Bordoli on 01283 212652. Your stone will be shaded in and, if you choose, marked with your initials.

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Calling all Road Cyclists

Whether you're training for an event, looking to improve your fitness or just enjoy cycling in company, then join a new group of cyclists in the area. The group leaves The Cross at 9 am every Sunday for rides of up to two hours duration. All abilities, all ages, and everyone from novices to Bradley Wiggins-wannabees are more than welcome. For more details, look for Repton Cycling on Facebook or ring Neil Williams on 01283 703363.

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Harvest at St Wystan's School

In early October, Year 6 gathered at Repton village hall to receive the produce brought by members of the school. They gave the beautiful boxes of fruit and bouquets of flowers to parent helpers who magically transformed them into an attractive Harvest display. During the service every child in the school took part in a medley of poems and songs. Later the produce was distributed around the village by Year 6 and their parents. The remaining produce was taken to Fisher Close Luncheon Club who were treated to Harvest entertainment by the children.

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SD Sports Awards

Two men with Repton connections have won awards in this year's South Derbyshire Sports Awards.

Matthew Dewis, a triathlete living in Woodville, has been chosen as Sportsperson of the Year. Matthew, who only took up the sport on a regular basis after leaving Repton School two years ago, has deferred his place at university to pursue his goal of making it to the top. As well as winning Southwell Sprint Triathlon in Nottinghamshire and the Little Beaver Olympic Triathlon in Leicestershire, Matthew has competed internationally, finishing 19th in the 2011 Sprint World Championships in China and 22nd in the Philadelphia Olympic Triathlon in the USA.

The Service to Sport award honours Michael Wilks, who has committed his time and energy to the Derby City Football League for 37 years and has supported the development of junior football across the city as well as the administration side.

Congratulations to both Matthew and Michael.

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Repton W.I.

At our November meeting, members and visitors enjoyed a light-hearted talk by Cliff Warner about his time as a magistrate in Derby. The amusing things people say and do when appearing before the bench were very entertaining, but when Cliff told us about being attacked in Derby Market Place by a drunk who recognised him, we realised there was a far more serious side to the job.

Pat Court reported on the Autumn Council Meeting in Derby when Adam Henson from Countryfile inspired us all to visit his farm in the Cotswolds, and Jan Meek amazed us with her tales of rowing the Atlantic and walking to the North Pole.

Ten members had enjoyed lunch at the Mulberry Restaurant at Burton College, and the walking group is planning another outing. A visit to the BBC in Nottingham is on the cards, and names were taken for the Group Carol Service organised by Briz Valley W.I.

Next meeting: Tuesday 11th December, 7.15 pm in the village hall: Hazel Salt will entertain us with some 'Musical Fun'. Members are reminded that there will be the usual gift exchange with wrapped gifts costing about £2. The President suggested looking for bargains in the shops as she had already bought hers when she spotted a special offer in Tesco that morning. Visitors are always most welcome.

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Stocking Fillers

The Repton Spoon is an ideal gift for anyone with Repton connections. In silver-plated pewter it is immediately available and costs £35. Contact Frances Wimbush on 703180. There is also a version in solid silver, which now costs £160. It can be ordered on request but we can't promise to get one in time for Christmas. There are pictures at reptonchurch.org.uk.

Repton Village History Group publications include 'Notices and Jottings from St Wystan's Parish Magazine from 1889 to 1937', 'Repton - Historic Capital of Mercia', and 'Mr Astbury's Repton Diary of Summer 1843', an appealing record of village life. They are available from Repton Post Office, or Andy Austen, 702448.

Greetings cards, a guide to St Wystan's Church by Dr. Harold Taylor, and the 'Repton Trail' are all available from St Wystan's Church. The latter describes notable buildings found on a walk through the village, a very useful guide for visitors and newcomers.

Finally, among the many guides to Calke, Colin Kitching's edition of the diaries of Sir George Crewe, 'Squire of Calke Abbey', gives a fascinating picture of Calke in the early years of the 19th century. You can find it at Calke or on the internet.

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Repton Village History Group

In October, Dr. Wendy Freer talked to us about packhorses and drovers. On specially designed frames, pack horses carried considerable loads on really rough paths over hills and mountains. Led by an experienced animal, they were frequently not tethered together and, since there were often 10 or 20 ponies in the train, travellers were well advised to heed the sound of the bell harness worn by the lead horse.

Geese, cattle and sheep also were often driven considerable distances to market. Cattle were shod, geese had bootees and turkeys' feet were tarred and sanded to stand the journey.

The ways they used can still be traced on today's maps, particularly since the names of modern paths and roads often give clues to their origins. Wendy showed examples of many local routes, the very narrow bridges, and the stone way-marks or guide stoops, which can still be seen. An Act of Parliament of 1697 required justices to set up guide posts or stoops as an aid to travellers. In Derbyshire, the justices took about 12 years to get round to it! On the moors, even with guide poles, professional guides were often needed.

On Tuesday 4th December, at our Christmas Social, Ian Hingley will tell us 'Why the Norkies came to Burton'. 7.30 pm in Repton village hall. Visitors are most welcome. Members £2, visitors £3, including tea and biscuits. For further information, contact Andy Austen on 702448.

Repton War Memorial

The History Group is looking for a volunteer to research those who died in the World Wars and whose names appear on Repton War Memorial, with the intention of publishing a booklet about them for 2014. If you would be interested in taking this on, please contact Neil Cumming on 702614.

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Repton Village Society

At the November meeting, Philip Heath, Heritage and Conservation Officer for South Derbyshire District Council, gave an insight into the way some farmhouses and cottages in the area had been originally built and then altered over the years as fashion, use and the owners' fortunes changed. He outlined both internal and external details of the buildings, with examples from Repton as well as Melbourne. The evening concluded with the results of the photographic competition, when Brian Davis, a keen photographer and Chairman of the Willington Arts Festival, presented the prizes and commented on the winning entries. The first prize was won by Sandra Raby, second by Gillian Hartley and third by Roger Paulson; the entries of Lilwen Guest and Ron Griffiths were highly commended. More than 40 entries were on display. The evening ended with wine and cheese.

The members' evening scheduled for 6th December has been cancelled, so the next meeting will be on Thursday 3rd January when Sir Henry Every will describe his year as High Sheriff of Derbyshire.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

• High Street Parking: Responding to the concerns of local residents about traffic and safety in the High Street, in particular at or near the Bulls Head car park, the Parish Council had asked Derbyshire County Council to ease parking congestion there by changing the current single yellow line to a double one. After consultation with the householders and businesses that might be affected by the restrictions, DCC has resolved to leave things unchanged. There is unfortunately no further course of action available to the Parish Council.
• Closure of The Dales: The decision has been taken to close The Dales next year. The Parish Council had submitted comments to DCC expressing its concern over the length of time that would elapse between the closure of the existing home and the re-opening of a new facility, estimated at 3 years, but has received no official response. The consultation responses can be viewed on the DCC website; look for 'Proposed closure of The Dales Home for Older People' and follow the link on the page.
• The Parish Council Office: Following the decision to close The Dales, our office will have to relocate, probably next spring. We are grateful for offers of two alternative locations, but neither is as accessible as the current location for local residents wishing to consult the Parish Council. Should you know of a local office available for rent a couple of afternoons a week, could you please contact me.
• 'Part Night' Street Lighting: The Parish Council is challenging a proposal to turn off the light on Matthew's Jitty between midnight and 5.30 am. This is an important pedestrian route through the village, and we have asked DCC to revisit its decision on the grounds of safety.
• Pedestrian Crossing: DCC is considering whether there is sufficient footfall for a new pedestrian crossing at the north end of the High Street. Unfortunately, their survey was carried out during the half-term break for both Repton and St Wystan's schools. Now a second survey will be undertaken to gain a more representative view.
• War Memorials: The Parish Council is keen to assist in identifying and registering war memorials in preparation for the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War. If you are aware of, in particular, any smaller artefacts, such as plaques or rolls of honour, which we may not be aware of, please could you contact the office and Councillor McGahan will register them.

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

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

Once again, our monthly meeting falls too late to meet the magazine deadline. I can, however, remind members that the December meeting will be held in The Swan Inn, Milton, on Wednesday 19th December. A festive meal will be served, followed by mince pies and coffee, and the committee will put on light entertainment, so be prepared for a jolly evening, and don't forget your bran tub prize!

The group Carol Service, hosted by Briz Valley W.I., will be at 7 pm on Thursday 6th December at Violet Lane Academy.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E Infant School

Community Collective Worship is on Wednesday 5th December at 9.15 am in the school hall. All parents, carers and local residents are most welcome to join us. Community Worship is usually held on the first Thursday of each month, so please note the change of day for December.

Our Christmas Fair will be held in school on Saturday 1st December between 2 and 4 pm. There will be Santa's Grotto, a cake stall, games for the children, a tombola, raffle and many more stalls.

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Children's Society Box Collection

A big 'thank you' to all box holders. The total collected this year was £387. 91. If you would like to help vulnerable children by taking a box or making a donation to the Children's Society, please contact Linda Williams on 701366.

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Newton Solney W.I.

At our AGM, W.I. adviser, Maureen Anderson, gave us information on a five week course, 'Making a Difference', being held by the Derbyshire Federation, a course aimed at giving women the skills and confidence to make a difference within their local community. Maureen also presided over the election of the new committee. President Hazel Ward was elected in for a further term of office, and we are pleased to welcome two new committee members, Annie Topliss and Pam Haines.

President Hazel then thanked everyone for their help and support over what had been a very busy year for us. She reported that the hot dog stall at the village bonfire had done well, and thanked members for their support and contributions to the Lasagne Lunch; this successful fund-raising event had been greatly enjoyed. Members were reminded that the Mercia Group Carol Service, hosted by the Briz Valley W.I., would take place on Thursday 6th December at Violet Lane Academy.

Louise Scheck, the practice manager of Willington Surgery, told us how things operate there behind the scenes, and why it has been necessary to make the recent changes to the booking system. She outlined plans for the future, saying that the new purpose built surgery would be very welcome, giving much needed extra space.

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 11th December at 7.30 pm in the village hall, when we will have Christmas entertainment and a 'bring and share' supper. Members were reminded to bring a small, wrapped gift for the Christmas Lucky Dip. As always, new members will be most welcome. There will be no whist drive this month. The next will be on Tuesday 29th January at 7 pm.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

October's Mystery Tour around the Staffordshire Peaks was most enjoyable; a coffee stop at the Dog & Partridge at Swinscoe was followed by a lovely drive. The coach journey to our lunch stop at the Ramblers Retreat near Alton proved to be the most exciting part of the day.

Our November talk by Dick Steele of Portmeirion Pottery was well attended. Dick brought examples of their pottery, which includes Spode and Royal Worcester as well as Portmeirion, and gave an interesting explanation of the processes involved in the making of different types and grades of porcelain and china. At the end of his presentation, he gave all those present a small gift of Portmeirion Pottery to take home, as well as discount vouchers for us to use when we visited Trentham later in the month.

Tuesday 4th December, 2.30 pm

A business meeting followed by entertainment provided by some of our members, and then by refreshments

Tuesday 11th December, 12.30 for 1 pm

Christmas Lunch at the Newton Park Hotel.

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Newton Solney Parish Council News

Bonfire Night: A big 'thank you' to everyone involved in making this evening a success, especially Jeremy Winter and his committee, Roger Kerry for his mulled wine, and the W.I. for providing refreshments.

Dog Fouling: This is a recurring problem, particularly on the Recreation Field. We now have a Neighbourhood Warden who will be visiting the site regularly. Please report any incidents to Gareth Evans on 0796 8079 613 or 01283 221000.

Fishing / Anti-Social Behaviour on Trent Lane: There is now a sign at the bottom of Trent Lane to say that fishing is not permitted. Please call the police non-emergency number, 101, if you spot any fishing in that area. Anti-social behaviour should be reported to Gareth Evans on 01283 595795.

Summer Holiday Activities: This year's activities again proved to be extremely successful. In total, 78 local young people enjoyed the free sessions at the climbing wall and Olympic Mobile. We hope to be able to provide this scheme again next summer.

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

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Gardening Notes

Perhaps the best thing you can do for your garden this month is sit in the comfort of your house and, as you think over the successes and failures of the past year, consider what changes to make for the coming season, and prepare your order for new seeds and plants.

When it comes to new trees, plan only for those that will not outgrow the space available. Some such as walnut, horse chestnut, birches, robinia and magnolia, do not respond well to pruning. Hard pruning these will cause vigorous, vertical growth and spoil their shape.

Prune grape vines before Christmas, before the sap starts to rise again. Standard apples and pears should also be pruned now, as well as currants and gooseberries. Stone fruit, such as cherries, apricots and plums, which are liable to silver leaf, should be pruned, if necessary, between May and July, when the fungal spores are less numerous and pruning wounds heal more quickly. Species such as acers, laburnum and lime are liable to bleed after pruning, and should be pruned in late summer.

This last, very wet season has resulted in many shrubs and climbers growing unusually vigorously. Before pruning them, consider when they flower; those that flower early in the season do so on the previous year's growth, so if you prune them now, you will remove the buds.

Spray fruit trees and rose bushes with a plant oil based winter wash to control insects. Grease-band the trunks of fruit trees to control winter moth.

In the vegetable garden, continue to clear old crops and dig in manure or bulky compost. If they are tall, support Brussels sprouts to protect them from wind damage. Protect vulnerable plants from severe cold with thick mulches of compost, bark, or straw and fleece.

Hardwood cuttings of deciduous climbers such as wisteria, Virginia creeper, and various vitis (grape vines) can be taken now.

Sow alpines, which benefit from a cold spell before germinating. Sweet peas sown in the autumn produce stronger plants which flower earlier in the spring. Sow them from October to December in a cool greenhouse. Apart from the dwarf bush ones, they come in three main varieties: the old-fashioned grandiflora types have shorter stems and fewer flowers, but outstanding fragrance; Spencer sweet peas have longer stems and more flowers per stem and come in a wider range of colours, but are not as fragrant; semi-grandiflora are said to combine the best of both worlds, with larger flowers, longer stems and good fragrance.

Before you allow them into the full warmth of the house, bring pots of Christmas flowering bulbs into a cool room or greenhouse.