March 2013 - Contents It is 'we' who have to make it happen! 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 Evening Services at the United Reformed Church 'Eggsactly What Happened at Easter?' Good Friday, 29th March Shell Group Coffee Morning, Saturday 9th March Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Funerals and Burial of Ashes Nina Hetty Jones Noreen Amy Sheraton Jean Archer The Memorial Book Repton Benefice British Summertime Services in March You are being prayed for St Wystan's News Easter Lilies St Saviour's News Foremark Church Annual Parochial Church Meeting, Wednesday 17th April St Saviour's Electoral Roll St Mary's News Newton Solney Annual Parochial Church Meeting, Sunday 8th April St Mary's Electoral Roll Local Diary Event Details Children's Nearly New Sale, Saturday 2nd March Lent Lunches, Wednesdays 6th, 13th and 20th March Repton School Concert, The Rhodes Piano Trio, Wednesday 6th March The Derwent Singers at Calke, Saturday 9th March Morning Coffee, Saturday 16th March Live & Local: Steiny's Blues - Such Sweet Thunder, Saturday 16th March Bridge Day, Wednesday 20th March Derbyshire Constabulary Male Voice Choir, Saturday 23rd March Messy Church, Sunday 24th March 'Eggsactly What Happened at Easter?' Friday 29th March The Silicone Taxis, Friday 5th April Milton Plant Swap and Sale, Saturday 13th April A Spring Wine Tasting, Friday 19th April Environment Matters Your garden birds Neighbourhood Watch Local The Parish Magazine Lent Collections for the Padley Centre and Derby City Mission The Big Lunch, Sunday 2nd June Secret Dealers Repton Village and History Repton Beavers Repton RAGS Repton Scouts WWI Memorial Booklet Repton Open Gardens, Friday 7th - Sunday 9th June Repton Village Party, Saturday 4th May, Poster Competition CSI in Repton! Bag2School Textile Collection Repton Cyclists Zumba your way to Fitness, Thurdays at 7.30 pm Repton Village History Group Photographs of The Square Repton Village Society Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Milton Village Hall: The Silicone Taxis, Friday 5th April Milton Village Hall: Plant Sale and Swop, Saturday 13th April Milton Village Hall: Traditional Summer Fayre, Sunday 30th June Milton Village Hall: AGM Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E Infant School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council News Gardening Notes

---

It is 'we' who have to make it happen!

In the car park of a nearby supermarket, I was head down in the boot sorting out my shopping when the car gave a lurch. The driver of a large BMW had clipped it while driving into the space next to mine. When the driver got out, her face was a picture, and I'm certain that spotting my dog collar didn't help! A quick inspection revealed little damage to either car, just a minor exchange of paint that could easily be 'T Cut' away. "No problem," said I, "Forget it". A smile, a wave, and off home. It was only when I mentioned the incident later to an acquaintance who said, "You could have made some money out of that", that it struck me how many people have lost the ability to be kind.

The 2007 movie 'Evan Almighty' has Evan, played by Steve Carell, building an Ark in modern day America - where else?! It ends with God telling Evan that the way to change the world is to do one Act of Random Kindness (ARK) at a time. How true! How important to our soul! It is a truth immortalized by William Wordsworth in 'Tintern Abbey': 'That best portion of a good man's life, his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love.'

So often nowadays one hears of people ignoring others, walking past on the far side of the street like little children holding onto their bag of sweeties, determined not to share. When the media recently reported on young men who had gone out to shovel snow from the paths outside the homes of vulnerable people, it showed the rarity of such kind acts. Sadly, the unwillingness to lend a helping hand is weakening our communities. We are all aware of voluntary organisations and charities existing on a knife edge because people are unwilling to offer help. While that threatens our society on one level, the unwillingness to be a good neighbour is an even deeper threat.

If we are to maintain our communities as good places to live, then it is 'we' who have to make it happen, which means we all have to be good neighbours. When we are called on to help a friend at the cost of our own convenience, do we ignore it, or do we generously give of our time and resources? When we have the opportunity to be kind to a stranger, do we take it or do we close our eyes; worse still, do we seek to use it for our own profit?

I'm not certain what awaits us at the Pearly Gates. We are told us there will be a book with our deeds written in it and we will be called to account. If that is the case, then I don't believe it will be the big things in our lives that are written there, but the small ones. On one page will be our failings. On the other it will be our humble, scarce remembered acts of random kindness, especially those we did when we were hard pressed, with little time to spare in the midst of our busy lives. These are surely the best part of our lives, reflecting what our character is truly like.

If we are all about building God's kingdom here on earth then acts of random kindness are one of the building blocks of that new creation. Being holy is perhaps not so much a striving for inner purity, as being warm, compassionate, kind and helpful. Perhaps in our being the latter, we will also become the former.

---

Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

---

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

---

Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

---

Brasses (contact Sue Parker, 702550)

---

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

---

The United Reformed Church

---

Evening Services at the United Reformed Church

. . . will re-commence every Sunday from Easter Day, during British Summer Time. The first Sunday of every month is an informal service at the Fisher Close Community Lounge, and the fourth Sunday includes Holy Communion. You are welcome to join us!

---

Women's World Day of Prayer, Friday 1st March at 7.15 pm

This year's service has been prepared by Christian women of France and takes as its theme 'I was a stranger and you welcomed me'. France has long been considered a land of asylum. Many waves of migration have given it a great cultural diversity and a great variety of faiths. The service will be held at the United Reformed Church in Pinfold Lane, with refreshments served afterwards. Everyone is welcome to this service, and to join with Christian women as a great wave of prayer sweeps across the world, a day which is celebrated in over 170 countries, with more than 6,000 services held in Britain alone.

---

'Eggsactly What Happened at Easter?'
Friday 29th March, 10 am - 1.30 pm

If you are between 5 and 13, Come and join us for an action-packed morning to discover Eggsactly what happened at Easter! See below for details.

---

Shell Group

. . . meets at the United Reformed Church on Mondays from 6.30 until 7.30 pm during term time. Activities this month include 'something' for Mother's Day, spring art work and games. New members are always welcome!

---

Coffee Morning, Saturday 9th March, 10.30 to 11.30 am

Come and chat with friends over coffee. With Easter in mind, there's sure to be lots of tempting treats this month! Cakes, preserves, tombola and the new range of Phoenix cards; please come and join us!

---

Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Nina Hetty Jones, formerly of Monsom Lane, Repton, and latterly of Nether Hall Nursing Home, died on Wednesday 16th January. A service at St Peter's Church, Netherseal, on 29th January was followed by burial, also at St Peter's Church.

Noreen Amy Sheraton (known as Norrie), died at The Dales, Repton, on Monday 21st January aged 90. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 1st February was followed by cremation. Norrie will be well remembered by many older residents who had dealings with Repton School Bursar's office, where she worked for many years alongside Rosemary Booth.

Jean Archer, recently of Ashby Court Nursing Home, died on Friday 1st February aged 80. A service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 13th February, was followed by burial at Monsom Lane Cemetery.

---

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.

---

Repton Benefice

British Summertime

. . . begins this year on Easter Day, 31st March. From then on, evening services at Newton Solney will move to the later time of 6.30 pm.

---

Services in March

Women's World Day of Prayer, Friday 1st March, 7.15 pm at the URC

This is a joint service between our benefice and the URC, and we hope for good support. For details, see page 20.

Sunday 3rd March - Changes to Services in Repton

Because of Mothering Sunday the following week, there will be no family service at St Wystan's on Sunday 3rd March. The service at 9.45 will be Parish Communion, with Matins following at 11 am.

Mothering Sunday 10th March - Foremark, Newton Solney and Repton

Sorry - it's not Mother's Day! Even so we will celebrate it with special services at 9.45am in Repton, at 10 am in Newton Solney, and I am sure it will be part of the service at 6.30 pm in Foremark as well. As with all our services, everyone and anyone is most welcome to come - and on this day of family gatherings, if you have family coming, get them to come along as well! Evensong at 6.30 in Repton will be 'sung'. There will be no Evensong in Newton Solney.

Wednesday, Holy Communion at 10 am - Repton

During Lent we have reverted to holding this service each week. If attendance is good, we will continue a weekly service after Easter.

Intercessory Prayer for Healing

. . . next meets at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 5th March at 3 Richmond Court.

Service of Prayer for Christian Healing

. . . at St Wystan's Church is at 7.30 pm on Wednesday 13th March. Everyone is welcome, either for prayer and the laying on of hands or simply to be part of a special service.

Living the Word

. . . will meet at 7.30 pm on Thursday 21st March at 3 Richmond Court. If you would like to learn more, or to come along to share how we have put The Word of Life into practice during the last month, please telephone Stephen Longden on 703259.

Holy Week
at St Wystan's except where shown

Palm Sunday, 24th March

Palm Sunday celebrates our Lord's entry into Jerusalem.

8 am Holy Communion.

9.45 am The Palm Procession, which, by courtesy of Gerald Gibbs, will again include two donkeys(!), will begin at the Arch and terminate at the porch. We recall the gospel story as we process with palm crosses, singing joyful songs of praise.

This year's reading of the Passion will be taken from Luke's gospel. The service concludes with the Eucharist.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week 25th, 26th, 27th March

Each morning at 10 am: Holy Communion with a short address on the theme of the day as we share Christ's journey towards The Cross.

Each evening at 7.30 pm: Compline. This delightful monastic service for the end of the day is a treasure greatly loved by many people. Each service will include an address.

The themed addresses are based on the three great themes mentioned in 1Corinthians, chapter 13: Faith, Hope and Love.

Maundy Thursday, 28th March

7.30 pm: Re-enactment of the Last Supper

In the re-enactment of the Last Supper, we follow the events of Jesus' final meal with his disciples, including the washing of the disciples' feet. With a shared Last Supper and our vicar washing the feet of any who choose to allow him to do it, we remember what took place on the night of Jesus' arrest.

At the end of the service we traditionally strip the church bare for Good Friday; this is followed by a vigil - the opportunity for us to remember how Jesus and the disciples went to the Garden of Gethsemene - sitting in silence in church, but with meditations and prayers to hand. You can stay for just a short while or until we end the vigil at 10.30.

Good Friday, 29th March

'Eggsactly what happened at Easter?' If you are between 5 and 13, Come and join us in Repton village hall for an action-packed morning to discover Eggsactly what happened at Easter! Details are below. For a booking form, contact Ruth Attwood, 4 The Pastures, Repton, t. 01283 202804, or Christine Gibbs, 5 Monsom Lane, Repton, t. 01283 701581. Return it not later than 24th March with £1 per person towards expenses.

12 pm: Stations of the Cross. We will journey around the inside of the church visiting the Stations, sharing with Jesus that torturous walk to The Cross with a hymn, meditation and prayer at each 'Station'. This normally takes between 45 minutes and an hour.

2 pm: Last Hour at The Cross. We gather in front of The Cross remembering what took place on this day, at this hour. Hymns, readings, an address and prayers mark this most special time.

At Newton Solney there will be a Good Friday Devotional Service at 4 pm.

Easter Day, 31st March

Easter Day is the great affirmation of victory over the powers of darkness and death which Jesus made possible through His death on the Cross and His resurrection.

6 am: The festival begins in the church porch with the lighting of the Easter Fire, from which we light the Easter candle, the symbol of Christ's risen life. We renew our baptismal promises and finish with a simple form of Communion.

8 am Holy Communion;

9 am Easter Communion at Foremark.

9.45 am At this celebration of the Risen Christ we will light individual candles from the Easter Candle, renew our baptismal promises and receive Holy Communion.

10 am Easter Communion at Newton Solney

---

You are being prayed for

Each weekday morning at 8, a small group of us say the Office of Morning Prayer. At this I have recently introduced a book of things to pray for. It includes a rota with all the streets, roads and lanes in all three parishes across our benefice. It also includes places of work, the schools, farms, shops, local organisations and so on. I hope it is a comprehensive list and that I haven't missed anything out! We will pray for every part of the benefice, by name, at least 6 times every year.

If you care to double check that your home is included, the book can be found in the Choir stall, organ side, in St Wystan's Church. The list is in alphabetical order.

If you have anybody or anything you wish us to pray for, you can contact me directly, but there is also a box where you can leave a note; it is on a table near the side altar in the north aisle.

---

St Wystan's News

Easter Lilies

Lilies at Easter breathe new life into St Wystan's Church. After its bareness during Lent, when all ornament is stripped away, the church is again light, bright and full of joy.

Lilies celebrate Jesus' resurrection and his promise of everlasting life, and many people appreciate this as an opportunity to commemorate loved ones, to celebrate special events, or simply to make the church look beautiful.

If you would like to make a donation, please contact Frances Wimbush on 703180 as soon as possible; she has to order flowers well ahead.

---

St Saviour's News

Foremark Church Annual Parochial Church Meeting
The Library, Foremarke Hall, Wednesday 17th April at 7 pm

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting of St Saviour's Church, Foremark, is to be held in the library at Foremarke Hall, by kind invitation of the Headmaster.

All parishioners are welcome to attend the Vestry Meeting for the election of churchwardens, and those on the electoral roll are welcome to attend the APCM afterwards, where there will be elections for PCC members, the Electoral Roll Officer and the Independent Examiner.

This year, all Church of England electoral rolls are fully renewed. Existing members have to complete a form together with anyone who wishes to join. For an application form, please contact Heather Lowe at Foremarke Hall, Repton Preparatory School, Milton, Derbyshire, DE65 6EJ, or pick up a form in church and send it to her. Forms have to be in by Wednesday 3rd April.

A meeting of Foremark PCC will immediately follow the APCM.

---

St Mary's News

Newton Solney Annual Parochial Church Meeting
St Mary's Church, Sunday 8th April at 7 pm

Parishioners are warmly invited to attend this meeting, which will begin with a short evening service and end with light refreshments. At the opening Vestry Meeting, elections will be held for churchwardens, with elections during the main meeting for a second Deanery Synod representative and other members of the PCC. Church officers will also report on finances and events of the past year.

Nomination slips for election candidates can be found at the back of the church during the weeks before the meeting, and should be returned to the Secretary by Sunday 7th April. Every parishioner has the right to elect the churchwardens, but in order to stand for election, to nominate candidates or to vote for members of the PCC, you need to have had your name on the church electoral roll for at least the preceding 15 days.

St Mary's Electoral Roll

It is six years since the church electoral roll was last renewed and church members must again apply for a place on it. Forms are available at church or from Graham Plowman, the Electoral Roll Officer, and should be returned to him by Palm Sunday, 24th March, if you wish to take part in the PCC elections.

---

Children's Nearly New Sale Saturday 2nd March, 10 am - 12 noon at Repton Village Hall Including Children's Clothes, Toys, Books, Nursery Equipment and Maternity Wear Entrance 50p, children free. Refreshments on sale. For further details please call: 07982 781936. Hosted by Repton Primary School PTA to raise funds for equipment

Lent Lunches Wednesdays 6th, 13th and 20th March, 12.30 to 1.30 pm in St Wystan's Church Home-made Soup, Bread & Cheese, Coffee and Chat! No charge but donations invited for the Derbyshire Children's Holiday Centre Everyone welcome. Do come!

Repton School Concerts Society The Rhodes Piano Trio Wednesday 6th March at 7.45 pm in The Robert Beldam Hall Formed in 2003 at the Royal Northern College of Music, the Trio won all the RNCM's major chamber music prizes, twice toured Scotland as Tunnell Trust Award winners, and won the 2008 Elias Fawcett Award in the Royal Overseas League Ensemble Finals. In 2011 they won 2nd Prize at the Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition. Last summer they recorded their first CD of trios by Schumann for release this year by Champs Hill Records. Their programme will include works by Beethoven, Schumann and Mendlessohn. Individual concert tickets are £13.50, concessions £10.50. For further information or tickets contact Sue Parker 56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR. 01283 702550.

The Derwent Singers conducted by Richard Roddis The Derwent Singers at Calke The Riding School, Calke Abbey, Saturday 9th March at 3 pm A varied programme will include music from the Renaissance to the present, combining the popular with some less known pieces. The concert will also feature 'The Wind in the Willows', an entertainment based on the book by Kenneth Grahame, with music by John Rutter. Tickets £10, under 16s free if accompanied by an adult from Derwent Ticket Secretary, 01283 561826, and Jenny Jones, 704054

Morning Coffee Saturday 16th March, 10.30 am to 12.30 pm Jan & David Roberts invite you to 'Morning Coffee' at 37 High Street, Repton Books and Raffle £2.50 including coffee & cake             Proceeds to St Wystan's Church Weather permitting, a chance to look round the garden

Steiny's Blues - Such Sweet Thunder Repton Village Hall, Saturday 16th March at 7.30 pm 'a charismatic singer with a big personality' Steve Steinhaus fronts Dr Teeth Big Band and The Steve Steinhaus Swing Band. In this show he shares his love for the blues, supported by Tasha Buxton on drums and Jay Moody on keys and saxes. Harlem-style jazz poetry, a cappella gospel songs, call and response singalongs, entertaining stories about the legends of American jazz and blues, are interwoven with anecdotes from his childhood in Chicago, his life as a bouncer, musician, poet, teacher, and as an American living in England. 'a show bursting with energy' Paid Bar and Raffle. Tickets £9.50 from Repton Post Office, Pat Court, 702599, and Sarah Farrell, 701069.

Bridge Day A friendly competition with lunch on Wednesday 20th March at Bower Hill, Well Lane, Repton by kind invitation of Mrs Melissa Cooke Tickets £20 including coffee & biscuits, lunch & glass of wine, tea & cake from Louise Chilton, 01283 701855 or Carol Lloyd, 01283 702410 In aid of St Wystan's Church Fabric Fund

Willington Surgery Patient Participation Group Derbyshire Constabulary Male Voice Choir Saturday 23rd March at 7.45 pm - doors open 7.15 pm Repton Village Hall The programme will be very varied with something to suit all tastes, including songs from the shows, traditional male voice choir numbers, well known items by popular artistes, solos and piano pieces, together with a touch of humour. Tickets £4 from Willington Surgery and Willington Pharmacy

Messy Church Easter fun activities,craft and games,celebration and Sunday tea for children and adults, anyone, any age St Wystan's Church, Sunday 24th March, 4 to 5.30 pm To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or . Everyone is welcome!

'Eggsactly What Happened at Easter?' Friday 29th March, 10 am - 1.30 pm Repton Village Hall, Askew Grove Age 5 – 13 Come and join us for an action-packed morning and discover Eggsactly what happened at Easter! A range of activities, including art work, games and a quiz will help the children and young people to explore together what happened during Holy Week and the first Easter Day, ending with a time of celebration together. Pease bring your own packed lunch; Drinks will be provided. For more information, contact Ruth Attwood on 01283 202804, or Christine Gibbs on 01283 701581.

The Silicone Taxis Milton Village Hall, Friday 5th April at 7.30 pm This widely acclaimed local band is performing a special acoustic set in Milton, a bit of soul, a bit of funk and a bit of rock and roll. Favourite tunes from the last 25 years performed by Jon Harper, bass / vocals, Rus Maw, guitar / vocals, Wilf Gillard, drums, and Lorienne Maw, keyboard / vocals. Tickets £10 from Sue on 01283 704580 Licensed Bar

Milton Plant Swap and Sale Saturday 13th April, 10 am - 2 pm at Milton Village Hall Plant swap 10 am - 1.30 pm ~ Sale of plants from 1.30 pm Bring your surplus plants, rooted cuttings, seedlings, divisions, and swap them for free! Plants should be of a reasonable size, at least a 3" pot, healthy, potted and clearly labelled. Donations of plants for sale would be greatly appreciated. £1 entry       Proceeds to Milton Village hall       Refreshments available More information from Carl Avery, 07527 700308

A Spring Wine Tasting With Auction of Curios, Food & Wine Friday April 19th at 7.30 pm in Repton Village Hall Tickets £17.50 including food and wine from Adrian Argyle, 01283 701277 In aid of St Wystan's Church Fabric Fund

Environment Matters

Your garden birds

Cold weather has brought many less familiar birds to our gardens, and if you treat them right, the resident birds will keep coming. Many people imagine that wild birds only need our help in winter, but in fact the spring and early summer are just as difficult for them, when food in the hedgerows is exhausted and they work continuously to raise their broods.

The RSPB website offers great advice on feeding birds, nest boxes and the care of baby birds that may appear to be abandoned during the nesting season. Also on the website is a brilliant bird identifier - search for 'rspb bird identifier' - which offers even a novice the means to identify unknown birds.

---

Neighbourhood Watch

Thefts from vehicles and dwellings: Many of these are from insecure vehicles or premises, or where valuables have been left on show. Please ensure security at all times.

Number plate theft: We will be arranging more opportunities for you to have antitheft screws fitted. In the meantime, if you would like a set to fit yourself, do contact us.

Parking Problems: The police can only deal with highway obstruction or dangerous parking, not with offences such as parking on yellow lines. Please report any parking problems to the Civilian Enforcement officers on 01629 538671 or email parking@derbyshire.gov.uk. Further information is available on parksmarter.org.uk.

Beware of pre-recorded telephone messages which state that if you are under 60, you are entitled to a £1000 reward. This is likely to be a marketing ploy designed to persuade you to transfer your pension. If you respond to such calls, you may end up losing a considerable amount of money. Your personal details may also be passed to other scammers so that you get further nuisance calls. Firms offering financial services in the UK must be authorised by the Financial Services Authority. Advice and a list of authorised firms are on their website. Search for 'fsa authorised firms'.

Local crime figures are available from police.uk. In Repton in December, the most recent figures available, the website shows six cases of anti-social behaviour, one of theft and one of vehicle theft.

For up-to-date information about what is going on in locally, you can register with Derbyshire Alert, a community messaging system for Derbyshire. You can choose to receive news and appeals, local crime information, and prevention advice to your email, telephone, or as a text message. The scheme also allows you to feed information back to your local police teams. Registration is free; visit derbyshirealert.co.uk. You can also follow Derbyshire police on twitter @derbyspolice, and, inevitably, on facebook.

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.

---

Locally

The Parish Magazine

Thank you very much to all the wonderful people who deliver the parish magazine round the village every month and also collect the donation envelopes. Last year we raised £3,698.42 which goes to pay for all the supplies such as paper and inks, as well as helping to build a reserve for when we need new printing equipment.

If anyone would be willing to take on a delivery round, there are one or two vacancies, particularly in Milton and we would be very pleased to hear from you. Please contact Karen Perks on 702392.

---

Lent Collections for the Padley Centre and Derby City Mission

A reminder that during Lent, our churches invite donations for the Padley Centre. St Mary's also collects gifts and money for the Derby City Mission.

The Padley Centre is grateful for cash donations, but it also has a detailed 'wish' list, which is on display in church. 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. They cannot use items that are out of date.

Money is best given to a churchwarden. Other items can be left in the boxes at the back of church.

---

The Big Lunch
Sunday 2nd June, Coronation Day

Despite appalling weather, last year's Big Lunch was hugely enjoyed locally, and across the UK over eight and a half million people took part. This year, at least one part of Repton is already planning another lunch to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation.

The Big Lunch originated in 2009 at the Eden Project. The aim is to get as many people as possible across the country to join with their neighbours in a simple act of community, friendship and fun. It can be anything from a few people getting together in the garden, to a full blown street party with food, music and decoration that quite literally stops the traffic.

If there is no Big Lunch being organized in your part of the village, why not take a lead? The website, thebiglunch.com, offers lots of help and a free starter pack.

---

Secret Dealers

In the ITV programme, 'Secret Dealers', three rival antique dealers tour the house inspecting items of value. The owners are then faced with surprise valuations and cash offers on some of their most prized, or not so prized, possessions. These they can either accept or reject, facing the choice between sentimental attachment and the chance to make money. The programme is currently looking for people in this area who have 'a passion for collecting', together with antiques or collectables that they would consider selling. If you would like to know more, contact Georgia on 0117 970 7674 or email secretdealers@rdftelevision.com.

---

Repton Village & History

Repton Beavers

During February, six new Beavers were invested into the Colony and a large number of badges were earned too. We have continued our indoor theme, learning about the Beaver Promise and the importance of teamwork. In our 'Australia Day', we learnt about Australia, with a kangaroo race and a game of cricket, and our Chinese New Year evening included dragon games, fortune cookies and a quiz about the Chinese years.

We took 18 Beavers to Magna Science Adventure Centre where they represented the group impeccably whilst learning about Earth, Air and Fire. The day culminated in a soaking in the 'water' pavilion, so a good time was had by all!

We have a balanced programme of creative, cultural, physical and community-based activities, and now we look forward to an evening playing drums, a visit to an opticians', and an 'experiments' evening.

If you have a child who is interested in becoming a Beaver and want more information, contact Andy Read on 07790 909138. Places are filling fast, so ring early to avoid disappointment.

---

Repton RAGS

. . . started up in June last year. RAGS stands for Relax, Activities, Games, and Sports, and that is exactly what we offer.

If you are aged between 8 and 14, why don't you come along to the Den on a Saturday evening between 6 pm and 7.30? You can join in the activities or just chat with your friends; when the nights are lighter we will be able to use the playing field as well! All it costs is £1.

We are a voluntary group, so there is no obligation on you; just come along when you feel like it. However, most people who come once will want to keep on coming, and the more the merrier! Come and have a look at what we do; if you want to know more first, contact Julie Groom.

---

Repton Scouts

During February, Scouts have been looking at fire safety, including how to build fires and use extinguishers of different kinds. On 17th February, all new Scouts were invested in a ceremony which was part of an Activity Day at Drum Hill Campsite, when we also did some orienteering, shooting and backwoods cooking.

If you have a child who is interested in becoming a Scout and want more information, please contact Mike Knowles on 07989 990119.

Repton Scout Group AGM is on Wednesday 20th March, 6.15 pm at The Den. You are very welcome to come and hear what the Group has been doing and to see some of our talented musical Cubs and Scouts performing. There are competitions and activities for children, and refreshments will be provided.

---

WWI Memorial Booklet

Work proceeds steadily. Janine Appleby and Margaret Austen are exploring old newspapers, chasing census details, military records, births and deaths records and other similar sources. We have also had help from Pat Silman in Australia, with whom we worked recently on her link with Edmund and Caroline Crewe of Repton Park.

In addition to the 36 men on our village memorial, we have found eight more from the village who, for some reason or other, are not listed. They are:

Joseph Bull	John Marriott	John Kenneth Samuel Page
Herbert William Rowland	H E Thomas	Joseph Wadkin
Joseph Warner	Edward Ward

If you have information about them, especially photographs, please contact Margaret Austen on 702448.

---

Repton Open Gardens
Friday 7th - Sunday 9th June

Now that the garden is on the move again, this is a good time to think of joining in our village Open Gardens. None of us can compete with Chelsea; after all, our gardens are real! But that is why visitors come. They go to shows and the great public gardens to dream the dream; they come to us for a pleasant afternoon, and to pick up ideas.

On the Friday the weekend will begin with an evening of wine and music, the gardens open on Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm till 6, and we usually finish off with a spot of conviviality. For the gardeners, who have the pleasure of showing visitors around, it is a thoroughly enjoyable weekend.

If you would like to think about opening your garden for the first time, please contact Tom Hyde on 703662.

---

Repton Village Party
Saturday 4th May, Mitre Field

Poster Competition

Pupils at Repton Primary, St Wystan's and Foremark Schools are being invited to design a poster advertising the Village Party. There will be two categories, infant and junior, with book token prizes for the winning entries. The poster should be in the shape of a flower, and feature details of the event including the date and time, venue, and some of the many activities such as Punch and Judy, football skills, tug of war, treasure hunt, model railway rides, climbing wall, craft tent, tug of war, bellringers, music and dance, face painting, displays and competitions. It is hoped to display all the posters around the village for everyone to view and enjoy.

If your child does not attend one of the schools mentioned but would like to take part in the competition, please contact Lynne Skeith, 9 Main Street, 704810, by the 25th March for details.

Help welcome!

We rely totally on volunteers and are keen to involve as many people as possible. If you would like to help in any way, I would be delighted to hear from you! The next planning meeting is on Thursday 18th April, 7.15 pm at The Den.

---

CSI in Repton!

Last month, budding detectives from years 3 - 6 at St Wystan's School enjoyed taking part in a 'CSI day'. Using real police software, pupils built photofit images of mock suspects, as well as taking fingerprints. They dressed in forensic investigator uniforms, including body suits, masks and gloves, which they were allowed to take home. Fortunately the children managed to detect the culprit and Repton is safe once more!

---

Bag2School Textile Collection

Repton Primary School PTA is holding a textile collection and will be grateful for any clean clothes, bedding, curtains, pairs of shoes, belts, handbags or soft toys. Please leave them in a polythene bag in front of the school, under the big tree, by 9 am on Thursday 7th March. If you would like us to collect your bag, please contact Caroline Thompson on 704084.

---

Repton Cyclists

If you're looking to improve your fitness, if you're making a return to cycling, or just looking for company when out on a training ride, then why not meet up with Repton's very own road cycling group? We leave The Cross every Sunday morning at 9 am for rides of up to two hours duration. All abilities and ages welcome. For more details, look for Repton Cycling on Facebook or ring Neil on 703363.

---

Zumba your way to Fitness
Thurdays at 7.30 pm, The Den, Mitre Drive

Zumba is a high-energy aerobic dance workout from South America that has become a huge hit with fitness fans. It fuses Latin rhythms and moves that are easy to follow to give a workout that is fun but effective. It is also a great way to socialise with others. Come and see what the fuss is about. Weekly sessions cost only £4 per person.

On Tuesdays, The Den also hosts Tai Chi classes from 1 pm, and table tennis for all abilities and ages from 8 pm. For further information call Toni Jantschenko, Village Games Co-ordinator, on 07909 442996.

---

Repton Village History Group

On Tuesday 19th March, Janet Spavold and Sue Brown will tell us about the history of our neighbouring village of Ticknall. In fact, until 1880, relatively recently, parts of Ticknall formed part of the parish of Repton. Janet and Sue have been leading extensive archaeological work on the Ticknall pottery, and Janet led the work to explore the history of Hartshorne published as 'Under the Sign of The Bulls Head'. At the following meeting, Richard Stone will talk to us about the ancient art of stained glass.

Meetings take place at 7.30 pm in Repton village hall. Visitors are most welcome. RVHG members £2, visitors £3, including tea and biscuits.

There are also opportunities to get involved in a number of projects. For further information please contact Andy Austen on 702448.

---

Photographs of The Square

Do you have a photograph of The Square looking towards Well Lane? If so, the History group would love to take a copy. We are particularly keen to find photos showing the cottages that were on the corner by the telephone box.

---

Repton Village Society

John Flamsteed was born in Denby in 1646, and under the patronage of Charles II became the first Astronomer Royal. In a well balanced talk, Mike Lancaster of the Derby and District Astronomical Society described the life and astronomical achievements of this remarkable man, and also outlined the bitter rivalries between him and Halley as well as Newton.

A few days later, Bill Smith and his Strictly Swing Quintet returned to the village hall for another evening of easy listening jazz, greatly appreciated by an audience of over 70.

On Thursday 7th March, we have a change of speaker. David Brown, Waste Awareness Officer of DCC will talk on 'Thinking Global and Acting Local on Waste Issues', during which he will look at the scale of the global waste problem, and how Derbyshire residents can respond locally to do their bit to help. His talk will be followed by The Annual General Meeting and cheese and wine. (Repton village hall, 7.30 pm.) The scheduled talk on the Derby Canal will now be on 4th April.

---

Repton Parish Council Jottings

The Parish Council Office relocated on the 1st of February and is now well established at 40 High Street. There is a sign and bell outside the door. The office hours remain Mondays from 1 - 4 pm, and Wednesdays from 2 - 6 pm. We have already received a few visitors; please feel free to call in regarding any Parish Council matters.

Repton Cross: Following consultation between the Parish Council and Derbyshire County Council, it is hoped that a scheme to refurbish and protect The Cross will soon be announced. The Parish Council has worked to ensure that the proposals are both in keeping with the surrounding area and of an appropriate standard. It is important to protect this monument before further damage occurs.

Dog Owners: Whilst we do appreciate that the majority of dog owners are responsible and considerate, we have received several complaints regarding both dog fouling in the village and dogs running loose on Broomhills field. We have passed these concerns to the Safer Neighbourhood wardens at SDDC, who hope to increase the number of patrols in this area. Members of the public can also report any problems by telephoning 01283 595943 or email environmental.health@south-derbys.gov.uk.

Next meeting: Monday 11th March in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton; a Parish meeting at 7 pm will be followed by the Parish Council meeting at 7.30 pm.

---

Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

Our February meeting was again too late for the magazine deadline. I can, however, remind members that our Annual Dinner is to be held at The Bubble at Stenson Fields on Wednesday 6th March, 7 for 7.30 pm.

President Jane Smith told members about the forthcoming production of The Sound of Music by The Ashbeian Society at Repton Theatre from 9th to 13th April.

At our next meeting on 20th March at 7.30 pm, Derek Wharton will talk on 'Puppets from around the World'. Visitors are most welcome.

---

Milton Village Hall

Work on the new kitchen extension is due to start this spring and events are taking place throughout the year to raise the additional £6,000 still needed.

The Silicone Taxis

On Friday 5th April the village hall welcomes this acclaimed local band, performing a special acoustic set of soul, funk and favourite songs from the last 25 years. The event starts at 7.30 pm and has a licensed bar. Tickets at £10 are available from Sue on 704580, or the Swan Inn.

Plant Sale and Swop

This will be on Saturday 13th April from 10 am to 1.30 pm in the village hall, followed by a sale of surplus and donated plants. Admission costs £1 and refreshments will be available. For further information please contact Carl on 07527 700308. Donations of plants to sell would be greatly appreciated.

Our annual Traditional Summer Fayre

. . . takes place on Sunday 30th June. For further information or stall enquiries, contact Sue and Carl as above.

The village hall AGM

. . . is at 7.30 pm on Thursday 7th March in the village hall. Please come along and have a look at what has been done and what is planned for this year. Offers of help with the events and donations for raffles and tombolas would be greatly appreciated. Milton village hall has been in existence since 1890 and needs your assistance now to improve its facilities for the future.

The hall is available for hire at very reasonable rates. To view it or make a booking, contact Polly Faulkner on 703436.

---

Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E Infant School

Parents, carers and local residents are most welcome to join us for Community Collective Worship in the school hall at 9.15 am on the first Thursday morning of the month. This month that will be the 7th March.

---

Newton Solney W.I.

At the meeting in February, Tricia Rees was presented with flowers and a card to recognise her contribution to the W.I. Having served as county chairman and on the national board of trustees, Tricia is retiring from national involvement but will remain an active member at Newton Solney.

Our speaker was Ruth Evans, who introduced us to 'Sittercise'. She explained the physical and mental benefits of gentle exercise, and put us through our paces; it certainly warmed and cheered us all up on a cold winter evening!

Mulberry room lunches are now underway again, please contact Jean Burns for information.

At the next meeting on 12th March at 7.30 pm, Sara Desfages and Amy Rose will speak on 'The Life of a Solicitor'. Teas will be served by Jo Parfitt and Denise Parker, with flowers provided and arranged by Tricia Rees. The next whist drive will be on Tuesday 26th March at 7 pm. Both are in the village hall and, as always, new members will be most welcome.

---

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

Our year has started well. In January, George Hook gave us a very entertaining talk on his work with shells. His is now the last remaining factory in Birmingham to carry out this type of work; before the introduction of plastics, there had been many hundreds of such workshops producing pearl buttons and other goods. George brought with him a variety of shells, which he uses to produce products such as buttons, knife handles, spoons and a wide range of jewellery. Many of our members purchased jewellery and other items, which were very reasonably priced. We hope in the near future to visit his workshop in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter.

Then in February, Mark Rowe spoke about the Fauld explosion. Although many members remember something about the day that the Hanbury dump blew up, there were a number of questions from the floor regarding the actual details of what happened. Some of these Mark could answer, but some it seems will always remain a mystery.

The talk was followed by a special celebration for our oldest member, Jack Antliff, who has reached the grand age of 99. Jack said a few words about his time with Tuesday Club, and how much he had enjoyed the trips and holidays. His daughter joined him for the celebration and we ended the afternoon with tea and cakes.

Tuesday 5th March at 2.30 pm

A business meeting followed by an illustrated talk on 'Canals'.

Tuesday 19th March Our trip to the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery leaves the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 am, to return between 3 and 3.30 pm. The cost will be £7.

If you would like to attend any of our talks, please feel free to join us in Newton Solney village hall; you will be most welcome. If you would like to come on any of our trips, please contact our Secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520.

---

Newton Solney Parish Council News

Gold Cards: Parishioners with Gold cards should renew them as soon as possible. Existing cards expire on 31st March.

Village Green: During the recent bad weather, two posts were damaged on the green. They are being replaced.

Roads Repairs: DCC has now defined a policy for pothole repairs, prioritising A roads over B and C roads, with the emphasis on a full, proper repair rather than patching.

Recreation Field: A reminder for parishioners to return completed questionnaires about their use of the field as soon as possible.

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

---

Gardening Notes

With the vegetable garden dug, the seedbed raked, the border weeded and reorganised, and with a cautious eye on the weather, we can really get sowing and planting.

Start in the warmth of the greenhouse with bedding plants, annuals for the border, biennials and perennials. In a heated propagator, sow tomatoes, aubergines, cucumbers and peppers. Lettuce, early cabbage, summer cauliflower and leeks can be sown in modules in the greenhouse or cold frame. Plant sweet peas outside now, and at the end of the month, sow peas carrots and beetroot outside and plant out onion sets; be ready to start on the first early potatoes.

Check dahlias in their winter store, and take cuttings if suitable shoots have appeared. To encourage more, lay tubers in a seed tray, cover with compost and keep them slightly moist. Some tubers can be potted up to start into growth as they are, although they won't go out until frosts are off the menu at the end of May.

March is traditionally the time to prune hybrid tea and floribunda roses. Climbing roses of all types should have been pruned and tied in already.

The very wet weather will have leached a lot of the nutrients out of the soil. Mulching will help, but there is usually little nutrient value to the mulch itself. Use lots of it; farmyard manure, garden compost, bark, leaf mould, even sawdust, they will all improve the soil, but fertilisers may be needed too. Bone meal and blood fish and bone can be applied now, for they are slow to act. For a quicker response, use a general fertiliser such as Growmore, whose nutrients are evenly balanced. You need high potassium for flower, high nitrogen for leaf growth, and phosphates to encourage root development.

Cut back the colourful stems of dogwoods and willows. If you want to keep them in check, cut back most of the stems to about two buds from the base. This will produce fresh, new, coloured shoots. Mahonias also need pruning, removing all the dead flowers.

Watch out for bird damage to fruit bushes and trees, and net where needed. In the 1960s and 70s, bullfinches did extensive damage to our plums, cherries and gooseberries. This year we have had a very handsome pair using our feeders throughout the autumn; the male is back again now, and already attacking the flower buds of a prunus.

Slugs and snails thrived in last year's weather and will need controlling. Research shows that organic slug pellets based on ferric phosphate are as successful as any others, and, unlike those based on metaldehyde, they pose no threat to people, pets or wildlife. Biological controls are effective for slugs, but not for snails.

I read recently that the alpine Edelweiss grows at up to 10,000 feet and is exposed to a high degree of ultra-violet light, yet it suffers no cell damage. The woolly covering of the whole plant is made up of millions of unusual hollow filaments, which are themselves covered in infinitesimally small fibres of the same size as the wavelength of UV light, thus forming a barrier to UV rays and preventing cell damage. Perhaps we should all wear wool when sunbathing - but it would have to be the right sort of wool!