July 2013 - Contents Patience 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 Barbecue, Saturday 13th July Shell Group (age 7+) Gift Day Church Picnic, Sunday 4th August Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages George Wright and Ruth Jones Daniel Slatter and Emma Perris Jamie Stewart and Sarah Taylor The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Churchyard Regulations Bishop's Visit, Sunday 11th August Change is in the air St Wystan's News Services and Groups in July Celebrating Pets! Sunday 7th July St Wystan's Spire and Tower A bit of a do Choral Evensong at Pentecost A View from the Spire Local Diary Event Details Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 3rd July Concert of Popular Classics, Friday 5th July Newton Solney School Summer Fayre, Saturday 13th July Milton Open Gardens, Sunday 14th July Edward's Quiz, Friday 19th July Coffee Morning, Saturday 3rd August Farewell! Jane and Ken Robinson You and your Pet Healthy Happy Hounds Neighbourhood Watch South Derbyshire Christian Aid Collection 2013 Repton Village and History Repton Rags Congratulations to Kate Repton Village Hall Redevelopment Repton Beavers Repton Scouts ngs Open Gardens Repton Road Club Repton Runners Repton W.I. Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society One Day Jitty Closure, Tuesday 30th July Repton School Science Priory Repton Casuals Junior Football Tournament, Saturday 13th July Repton Open Gardens ~ Thank you! Scarecrow Competition Results Repton Parish Council Jottings Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Milton Village Hall Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council News Gardening Notes

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Patience

Many say that spring was a long time coming, others that it never arrived! Only now, as I write in early June, does it seem that spring is finally here - and yet it is already summer. Nature has experienced a veritable roller coaster, but the birds in the vicarage garden do not seem to mind. They have built their nests and their fledgling youngsters are even now trying out their wings. To protect those whose first flights plummet to the ground, we have locked up the vicarage moggy for a couple of weeks; it saves a lot of young wildlife from a grizzly end! The cat, when he is 'at large', is a great hunter. I often spot him hunched on a wall or under a bush, eyes fixed, ears alert, the end of his tail twitching with delight and anticipation. His patience is that of the hunter, enduring, strong, determined.

Patience is not something that comes easily to us, but many proclaim it as something we should aspire to. It is not a modern aspiration. 'Patience is the greatest of all virtues' said Cato the Elder in about 200 BC. It seems that people have been wanting things - now! - for most of history, and that the ability to wait has long been admired.

Of course we all know that impatience can be a bad thing. Some 2200 years after Cato, Franz Kafka wrote: 'There are two cardinal sins from which all others spring: impatience and laziness'. If this is true then I have given in to sin time and time again since moving to Derbyshire. I love cycling. For years I lived in Cambridge where cycling is a way of life. There the roads and cycle networks accommodate bikes, and generally cyclists and motorists exist comfortably together. Here however, with narrow country roads and a constant stream of recreational and sporting cyclists, my patience is sorely tried, though I try hard to persuade myself that, while I am stuck in a queue of traffic behind an impassable lycra-clad cyclist, it is an opportunity to hone my 'patience' skills, to seek inner peace and calm, and not simply mutter expletives under my breath.

Of course, when we consider our relationship with God, then patience is truly a virtue. So often we feel that we want something and want it now, and our prayers almost demand it of God. But as we grow spiritually, so we find that patience, waiting on God, is a far better thing. Sometimes our patience helps us to see that what we thought we wanted, we didn't actually need. Sometimes it helps us to see that God has responded, but just in a different way from what we had expected. At other times we find that waiting has led us to a better time to act - just like choosing a safe moment to overtake that annoying cyclist.

To those who think of patience as wasting time, more a burden than a gift, I quote Fulton Sheen who wrote: 'Patience is power. Patience is not an absence of action, rather it is timing; it waits on the right time to act, for the right principles, and in the right way.' I seem to be quoting a lot of people this month, but let me finish with my favourite quote: 'You can chase a butterfly all over the field and never catch it, but if you sit quietly in the grass it will come and sit on your shoulder.'

May you find space in your life to sit in the grass and let a butterfly rest on you - and may you know that, as it does, it is God touching your life.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

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Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

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Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

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Brasses (contact Sue Parker, 702550)

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

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The United Reformed Church

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Barbecue, Saturday 13th July, 3 pm at 5 Monsom Lane

This is our annual fund-raising event: lots of tasty treats, games for the children, and a chance to relax in the sunshine! Tickets available from Church members.

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Shell Group (age 7+)

This month, Shell have their own barbecue, a sports night, cricket and a quiz. All are welcome.

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Gift Day

Thanks to everyone who gave so generously. By the time you read this, the porch and disabled toilet will be finished!

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Church Picnic, Sunday 4th August

Following the morning service we will set off for a grand picnic: bring your picnic lunch and join in the fun!

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Marriages

George Wright and Ruth Jones of Gildingwells, Worksop, were married at St Wystan's Church on Saturday 25th May.

Daniel Slatter and Emma Perris of Spring Terrace Road, Stapenhill, were married at St Mary's Church on Sunday 26th May.

Jamie Stewart and Sarah Taylor of College Breen Walk, Mickleover, were married at St Wystan's Church on Saturday 1st June.

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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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Repton Benefice

Churchyard Regulations

If you tend a grave in any of the churchyards in our benefice, may we draw your attention to the existence of diocesan rules regarding what may and what may not be placed on graves.

We would highlight the fact that you are not allowed to plant anything, and, whilst a small container is acceptable, provided it is easily moved for maintenance, please don't place anything else on graves; what you feel is attractive may be seen as an eyesore by the relatives of someone buried alongside. Wreaths and fresh flowers are acceptable but will be removed after a period of time. (Note that the squirrels in Repton love carnations, so these disappear very quickly!) We are a little more relaxed about the rules in respect to recent graves.

Please help us to keep our churchyards in good order by abiding by the rules. If you have any questions, do ask me.

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Bishop's Visit, Sunday 11th August

Bishop Richard Inwood, the retired Bishop of Bedford, is coming to St Wystan's on Sunday 11th August. To make him feel most welcome we will treat that Sunday as we do a Benefice Sunday and make the 9.45 Communion service, at which he will preach and preside, our only service of the day.

Bishop Richard, who grew up in Burton, is now, in retirement, assisting in the Diocese, and will be visiting several churches across South Derbyshire as he helps us to consider the future of our Deanery. After the service in Repton, he will have a brief tour of the benefice with visits to St Saviour's and St Mary's.

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Change is in the air

Repton Deanery, comprising all the twenty-one parishes in this part of South Derbyshire from Findern in the north-east to Croxall in the south-west, is undergoing great change. With several priests due to retire soon and increasing uncertainty about the future, representatives from the parishes recently met with diocesan staff to develop a strategy. Proposals to change parish groupings have now gone out for further consultation, prayer and development. As far as our benefice is concerned, no change is proposed for the present.

In the longer term, however, changes may well be needed to cope with the potential housing development at Drakelow, the plans for Egginton, and the growing number of houses being built on the southern edge of Derby.

Although for the next few years it appears to be 'status quo' for us, there is continuing encouragement for parishes to work ever closer together, and just as we seek to do that within the benefice, so we will also consider ways to work together with the parishes around us, Willington, Findern, Bretby and Winshill.

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St Wystan's News

Services and Groups in July

Sunday 7th July, Celebrating Pets!

The Family Service at 9.45 am will be a 'Pet Service'. Come with your pets and give thanks for all the benefits that they bring. However, if your pets might be a danger to others, or may make a bid for freedom, please keep them on a lead or harness, or bring them in a suitable cage or container. If you have an unusual or particularly large pet, do contact Rev'd Martin before the day to discuss it. Ring 619686.

Intercessory Prayer for Healing is at 7.30 pm on Monday 1st July at 3 Richmond Court.

Prayer for Christian Healing is on Wednesday 24th at 7.30 pm. Everyone is welcome whether for prayer and the laying on of hands or just to be part of a special service.

Living the Word will meet at 7.30 pm on Thursday 25th at 28 The Pastures. 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.

A short service of Prayer for Healing in St Catherine's Chapel in the north aisle follows Parish Communion on the 28th. Everyone is welcome.

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St Wystan's Spire and Tower

The spire is once again complete. The top two courses of stone have been replaced, the nine courses below them rebedded, and other stone blocks repaired or replaced. Stonework has been repointed, some mullions in the 'bell lights' replaced, the lightning protection upgraded to the latest standards, and the re gilded weather cock sits once again proud and resplendent on top.

During the work, it became clear that when repairs were last carried out in 1989, whilst most of the iron fixings for the weather cock had been replaced with stainless steel, the part of the iron spike which ran through the capping stones had not. Another problem was that a cast iron cap at the very top was not properly watertight; this has now been replaced with brass. These defects had led to the top two stones cracking, water ingress and subsequent further damage.

Work has now moved down to lower levels. The scaffolding which shrouded the spire is being re-erected around the tower to enable a close inspection and identify necessary repairs. These are likely to include replacing a number of stone blocks including some of the carved stone frieze below the parapet, repairs to the stone mullions in the 'bell lights', and lead work to the flat roof around the base of the spire. Other items may become apparent once the scaffolding is in place.

At this time the project is within budget and on schedule for the completion date of 4th October 2013. The contractors are A.J. Restoration Ltd.

Access to the Churchyard

Paths around the tower remain blocked off for safety reasons, and access to bulk of the churchyard involves a lengthy walk across the grass; people in wheelchairs need help.

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A bit of a do

On the social front, the first half of the year has been varied and fun. A really enjoyable Burns Night at the home of Morag and Fred Hill was followed by the annual Shrove Tuesday 'Potatoes and Pancakes' at Carol and Chris Lloyd's, and, at the end of the month, the APCM with a Parish Supper.

In March, Jan and David Roberts hosted a busy coffee morning, and, in April, Melanie and Richard Finch shared their journey through the Holy Land at a Bring & Share Supper. A wine tasting, supper and auction organised by Adrian Argyle to raise money for the Fabric Fund was another great evening.

Wendy Longden organised a tent for the Village Party, where a large number of children and some adults jumped over the weather cock.

A big 'thank you' to all who gave time and effort to organise and host these events; they were all really enjoyable, and we do appreciate it.

And there is also a lot to look forward to in the next few months. We have a BBQ on Saturday 20th July, Coffee Mornings on Saturday 3rd August and Tuesday 3rd September, a Family Barn Dance on Saturday 12th October, the Harvest Festival Shared Lunch on Sunday 20th October, Repton Quiz Night on Saturday 16th November, and a Concert with a Soup & Sweet Lunch on Friday 29th; in December, there will be Christmas Tree Festivals at both St Wystan's, and St Mary's Churches. You know you won't remember it all, so please note the dates in your diary now.

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Choral Evensong at Pentecost

On the Feast of Pentecost, the Wystan Singers, clergy and congregation moved to Repton School Chapel for the service of Choral Evensong. With appropriate music for the occasion, we much enjoyed the change of setting and would like to thank the Headmaster and School Chaplain for allowing us to use the Chapel.

The next Choral Evensong at St Wystan's is on Sunday 21st July at 6.30 pm.

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A View from the Spire

When in early June the architect came to inspect the replacement stones on top of the spire and the reinstalled weathervane, it was my chance to climb up too. John, the foreman, had warned that most accidents at height come from stepping back into the access hole where the ladders come through the boarding; those access holes are deliberately small, and fitting my shoulders through was not easy.

What a view! While the architect did his inspection I enjoyed the surrounding panorama and the exhilaration of being so high. I managed a few photos but John was concerned that the wind was a little too strong for his Health and Safety margins and the whole structure was swaying; although the spire looks solid, it is really quite flexible.

That afternoon, work started to dismantle the scaffolding, so, unless calamity strikes, I may be the last vicar to go up there for the next hundred years! What we need now is to get the Tower stonework completed; then perhaps we can reclaim our churchyard.

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 3rd July 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!

Concert of Popular Classics St Wystan's Church, Repton Friday 5th July at 7 pm Local professionals perform a short programme of works for piano, violin, viola, clarinet and voice by Bach, Rachmaninov, Gershwin and Moszkowski, followed by light refreshments Adults £7.50         Children free Jane Millensted, 703374, Jan Roberts, 702159, Wendy Longden, 703259

Friends of Newton Solney School Newton Solney School Summer Fayre Saturday 13th July, 2 - 4 pm All are welcome for an afternoon of fun in the school grounds with games, stalls, cakes, BBQ, bouncy castles and much more Free entry!

Milton Open Gardens Sunday 14th July, 2 to 6 pm Enjoy a diverse selection of ten gardens including some new ones, and a truly unique indoor garden created in the Village Hall. Plants for sale, tombola and equine attraction. Tea and home-made cakes served in a garden party atmosphere by the ladies of the WI in the Village Hall indoor garden. Entry £3 per person, children under 16 free. Free parking. Tickets for the Open Gardens are available from the car park attendants. Sorry, no dogs will be allowed in the gardens More information from Carl Avery, 07527 700308, or miltonmatters.org.uk

Edward's Quiz A popular Quiz Night in Milton Village Hall Friday 19th July, starting at 8 pm Entrance £5 per person includes refreshments and tea and coffee. There is no bar but you are welcome to bring your own tipple. For details please contact Sue White on 01283 701978.

Messy Church Enjoy a happy summer holiday! We start again on Sunday 22nd September. To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or .

Coffee Morning Saturday 3rd August, 10 am - 12.30 pm Wendy & Stephen Longden invite you to morning coffee & home-made cakes at Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street, Repton Raffle and Plant Stall £3 with as many refills as you like

Farewell

Jane and Ken Robinson

Older people in and around Repton will have fond memories of Ken Robinson, a family doctor here for 35 years; he may indeed have brought some of you into the world.

A southerner, born in Reigate, Ken went on from Charterhouse to Cambridge, before qualifying as a doctor at Guys Hospital in London. It was at Cambridge that he met Jane, who qualified as a doctor at the Royal Free Hospital, one of the few teaching hospitals that accepted women at that time.

After qualification and 'house' jobs, Ken did his National Service in the RAF, where he rose rapidly to the rank of Squadron Leader.

In 1955 he arrived in Repton to join the practice run in Repton and Willington by Drs. Lindsey and Sheldon, replacing Dr. Hodson. It gradually became a two-man practice as Dr. Lindsey withdrew. The surgery in rooms on the High Street, now part of St Wystan's School, had a reputation as possibly the most primitive premises in the area. With no appointments system, unlucky patients might have to spend three hours in a spartan waiting room. One bitter winter, the pipes froze: there was no water supply for three months, and patients were examined through multiple layers of vest, shirt, jacket and overcoat! However, in the early 70s, just before Brian Hands replaced Dennis Sheldon, Ken was instrumental in persuading the Executive Committee (as Health Authorities were then called) to buy land on the corner of High Street and Askew Grove as a site for the Health Centre which opened in 1979. By this time the practice had also transferred its branch surgery in Willington from Hall Lane to Beech Avenue.

Medicine was changing and the partnership increased, initially with Jackie Abrahams who, after 5 years went on to run the Women's Services in Derbyshire and was replaced by Kyran Farrell. As demands continued to increase, the Health Centre was too small, and the practice moved to Willington in 1990, when Ken retired.

Throughout this period, Ken played a major role in coping with the great increase in the work of the family doctor, and ensuring that the practice enjoyed the highest reputation. He was also for many years the Repton School medical officer and represented local GPs on the Local Medical Committee, their representative body.

Although Jane did not practise full-time, she was involved for several years in the care of residents at The Dales. She was also involved in voluntary work, including many years as a member of the Board of Visitors (now the Independent Monitoring Board) at Sudbury Prison.

For almost all of their time in Repton, Jane and Ken lived in the Pastures, and their beautiful garden was long the star of Repton Open Gardens. Ken was also extremely persuasive in getting diffident owners to open their gardens for church funds. Since 1995 he has written the gardening notes that have been a constant feature of the Parish Magazine. As a keen gardener all his life, his deep understanding, wide knowledge, and practical experience were highly valued, and he shared with us too his delight in all the wildlife in his garden.

Now Jane and Ken are heading south to be nearer to family. Repton owes them a great debt, and we wish them both well in their new home.

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You and your Pet

Healthy Happy Hounds

In a recent survey 81% of people agreed that 'pets are an antidote to a bad mood'. The great majority of owners were happy, and so was their dog. One of the main reasons for this is that most pets fulfil our basic human need for touch. Though having said that, my cat, Sassy, will only be stroked on her terms, and she can sometimes become the reason for my bad mood when she has stolen last night's leftovers again. Pets can be good company, and they can get you out and about meeting people.

Where does your dog sleep? In the wild, dogs sleep in packs, and in the modern home this still holds true with a sizeable percentage sleeping on the bed. Nearly 1 in 10 owners has a Facebook page for their dog.

Social interaction is vital. The dog's wild ancestors led busy and varied lives, scavenging, hunting for food, caring for offspring and playing. Small to medium size dogs are the most popular in the UK, and the Labrador is one of the most popular breeds. Dogs are part of the family and we are their new 'pack'.

The population of UK dog owners is slightly in decline, and we may be seeing a trend towards an ageing dog population. A healthy diet and an active lifestyle are extremely important. Senior dog foods are tailored for this, with lower fat and calorie contents. It's important to count tit bits and treats in your pet's calorie intake; a Dentastix can be 10% of a dog's daily calorie requirement. Dogs are mainly carnivores with strong jaws and sharp teeth, a strongly acidic stomach to digest meat and a short digestive tract not suited to digesting lots of carbohydrate.

44% of dogs are only allowed out on a lead, but some dogs can be little devils when they are let off! Vigorous lead exercise can be just as enjoyable, just a greater workout for the owner! I've started running with Boston, my two years old Labrador. It's always nice to see he's got plenty of energy left after the run when my red face is saying otherwise! Lack of exercise can lead to behavioural issues such as aggression, destructiveness, excess barking and even biting. For a healthy, happy hound, exercise is key.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch.

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Neighbourhood Watch

There are just too many minor incidents and attempted scams to report them all here. If you would like to keep up-to-date, you can register with Derbyshire Alert, derbyshirealert.co.uk, to receive news and appeals, local crime information, and prevention advice by email, phone or text message, or to give feedback.

You can also follow police activity and receive advice on Twitter, @DerbysPolice. For local crime figures, visit police.uk.

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

Christian Aid Collection 2013

This year there was no door to door collection locally, but in addition to the opportunity to donate by telephone or on-line, there were collection points in St Wystan's Church, The United Reform Church, Repton Post Office and Newton Solney. Collections from these totalled £362.61. If you have not donated to Christian Aid yet, you can still do so by telephoning 0207 523 2046.

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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 Friday from 6.30 to 8 pm at the Den      £1 a head Come along and have fun!       More info from Julie Groom, 0797 4998852

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Congratulations to Kate

As part of the Community Games' 'Shine a Light' celebrations, which followed the path of last summer's Olympic Torch Relay route, 17 year-old Kate Gallagher, who lives in Repton and goes to John Port School, has been chosen to represent Derbyshire.

The 'Shine a Light' relay lasts 70 days, and each day a different area of the country celebrates the efforts of a local volunteer who has helped bring the Olympic spirit to life. In Derbyshire. the Village Games team organised family-friendly sports and craft activities alongside Hope Wakes Fell Races.

Kate was nominated by Julie Groom for her outstanding volunteer work with Repton Rags. Julie described Kate as "a very dedicated volunteer, who can always be relied upon to provide great activities for the young people, offering friendship and help to keep Repton Rags going for all the young people". At a meeting of the group in June, Kate received a Community Games commemorative certificate and sweater. Then, in late July, a year after the Olympics opening ceremony, she will be invited to a celebration together with other nominees at London's Olympic Park.

Repton Rags, set up last year by Julie Groom with the help of South Derbyshire District Council and their Village Games Co-ordinator, has recently celebrated its first birthday. The group meets every Friday evening for games, sports, activities and relaxation. If you have a youngster aged between 8 and 14 and would like to know more, contact Julie on 0797 4998852.

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Repton Village Hall Redevelopment

For some time now, the management of the hall has been actively seeking a way to redevelop it. The hall was opened on its present site in 1973. The building has been well maintained over the years, but the side panels and front extension of the building are well beyond their predicted design life, and are now unrepairable.

When we last wrote - in the Parish Magazine of December 2011 - we were looking at the possibility of a major refurbishment. However, the position has deteriorated and the Management Committee has now concluded that the most realistic option is to replace the whole building. It is proposed to split the work into two phases; initially only the front of the hall will be rebuilt, as this is the most urgent. The second phase will see the replacement of the main hall and rooms at the rear.

Although the overall footprint will not be very different, and that of the main hall will be the same, you will see significant changes. For example, as well as the existing facilities, the first phase - the front - includes disabled toilets and a small meeting room, and in the second phase, the fixed stage will be replaced by increased storage and a larger meeting room, the latter linked directly to the entrance foyer, kitchen and toilets by a multipurpose gallery.

Come and see the plans!

Plans of the proposed development can be seen at the village hall on Saturdays 6th and 13th July between 2 and 4 pm, when members of the Village Hall Committee will also be present to answer any questions.

Fund-raising

The Parish Council, Village Society and Repton School have given generous donations towards the cost, which will be at least £200,000 for each of the two phases, and the committee has applied to numerous funding bodies, but so far without success.

A fund-raising group is being set up, and we appeal to residents, businesses and other groups in the village that may be able to help to contact us. We would also be grateful for any donations or fund-raising that can contribute to the building fund.

The village hall is extensively used and a hugely important asset for the village, but if we are to retain it, it will need the efforts of the whole community.

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Repton Beavers

In the past few weeks, we have had a visit from the Police Armed Response Unit, played cricket and been Bellboating on the River Trent. This has resulted in a number of upcoming badge awards. In the remaining weeks before the summer break, we will be going on an adventure walk, erecting tents and learning how to follow tracking signs.

If you have a child who is interested in becoming a Beaver and want more information, contact Andy Read on 07790 909138. Available places fill quickly, so ring early to avoid disappointment.

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Repton Scouts

It was an early start at Carsington, but what a day! Activation in early June was a Scout Activity day. Each Scout did 3 or 4 activities ranging from sailing and canoeing to climbing and mountain biking, but the favourite was gutting fish and rabbits and learning other backwoods skills.

Coming up we have more canoeing, walking in the Peak District in preparation for Yorkshire 3 Peaks, and - fingers crossed - another attempt at archery if the weather doesn't intervene.

There is currently a waiting list as we need some more adult helpers, but if you have a child who is interested in becoming a Scout and want more information, please contact Mike Knowles on 07989 990119.

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ngs Open Gardens

Wendy and Stephen Longden, Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street: Sunday 7th July, 1.30 - 6 pm

Please come and walk our grassed labyrinth, or just sit and enjoy the garden and views. Home-made teas in aid of St Wystan's Church funds. Plants for sale. Admission £3, children free.

Pauline and Robert Little, 10 Chestnut Way Sunday 7th July, 11 am - 6 pm

A large garden packed with colourful and unusual plants. We have lots of clematis, the perennials are at their best and the annual meadow is bursting with colour. There is a lot to see, so do come and join us. All proceeds go to NGS charities. Entry £3. Homemade teas with delicious cakes, as well as a plant stall with a good selection still.

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Repton Road Club

With two rides every week, Repton's own cycling group continues to attract new members. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, making a return to cycling, or just looking for company on a training ride, then why not meet up with the group which leaves The Cross, Repton, every Sunday morning at 9 am for rides of up to two hours duration. The group also leaves The Cross on Thursdays at 6.45 pm for rides of up to 90 minutes. All abilities and ages are welcome. For more details, ring Neil on 703363, or see facebook.com/ReptonRoadClub.

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Repton Runners

Summer is here, but do you need to get in shape for the beach, or are you trying to get into last year's Speedos? Well there's no better way to get a bit of fitness back than a little regular running with friends. A few weeks with the Repton Runners and you'll be in the mood to go for a holiday jog along the beach every morning. We meet outside the Red Lion at 7 pm every Wednesday for a run of about 4 miles. Everyone welcome. For more details call Katie on 07734 711986 or Michael, 07971 609998.

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Repton W.I.

Our June meeting enjoyed a talk by Lynne Tann-Watson about herbs. We learnt about their uses in cooking and medicine, and some of the superstitions and myths surrounding their history. Lynne had a huge variety of plants to show us, and we were encouraged to be more adventurous in their use.

The Group Meeting in Willington in May was treated to a talk by Jenni Adin-Smith about her career in embroidery and her involvement with the Duchess of Cambridge's wedding dress. The competition for an embroidered handkerchief was won by Repton with a beautiful example of Lucine's work. We were also presented with a certificate to commemorate the 95th anniversary of the founding of Repton branch, one of the first in the county.

We are going on a garden visit later in the month and looking forward to our day trip on 23rd September to the W.I.'s Denman College. There are still a couple of places spare if anyone else would like to go.

Next month's meeting at 7.15 pm on Tuesday 9th July in the village hall will hear from Sheila North of the Parkinson's Society. New members and visitors are always welcome.

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Repton Village History Group

When the speaker scheduled for our May meeting had to call off at the very last minute, we resorted to a slide show of Repton Past. Identifying locations was all the more challenging because we had inadvertently - but consistently - got the slides back to front! Thank you to all who helped with the scramble to get organised.

In June we dipped into the archive, and, in addition to the usual censuses and log books, we offered a display explaining that the right of way along Well Lane had been demonstrated by a recently found photograph of the council fingerpost in The Square, and by the Enclosure Act of 1767. We also had a display of past businesses in the High and Main Streets, based on work done by the Friday Luncheon Club; a large-scale map was accompanied by photographs. The other item introduced the Repton Association for the Prosecution of Felons, founded in 1838 as a sort of Neighbourhood Watch.

Our next meeting is on Tuesday 17th September; Rowena Lovatt will talk to us about the Leek Embroidery Guild.

On Wednesday 7th August, our guided walk of the Ticknall Lime Yards is open to non-members; meet in Ticknall village hall car park at10.15 am. However, we need to keep an eye on numbers, so if you would like to join in, contact Andy Austen on 01283 702448. There is no charge from the National Trust, but we have decided to make a small charge of £3 as a donation to Calke Abbey.

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Repton Village Society

Some 165 were at our evening with 'Barbara and All That Jazz' to raise money for the Village Hall Redevelopment Fund. We are very grateful to Repton School for once again making Pears School available to us free of charge; the Society picked up the remaining costs, so all the money raised, £1,510 from ticket sales and £500 from the raffle, will go to the fund. It is hoped that the evening also raised the profile of efforts to redevelop the village hall - it is such an important part of our village life.

At our monthly meeting, in his excellent talk on the geology of Derbyshire, Colin Bagshaw outlined the way in which the landscape of the county has developed since the planet was created. A week later, Colin was our guide on a coach tour of both the White and Dark Peak areas with stops at Hartington and Castleton, a most interesting day.

Thursday 4th and Saturday 6th July

Rod Pearson' talk, 'Halifax, a Yorkshire Odyssey', on 4th July will be followed on the 6th by a coach trip to Halifax with Rod as our guide. The first stop will be the magnificent Victorian Town Hall designed by Charles Barry, the architect for the Houses of Parliament, which will open especially for the Society with a guided tour by Town Hall staff. We will then walk with Rod to the Grade I listed Piece Hall, a Georgian masterpiece. This was the building where handloom weavers came to sell to merchants their 'pieces' of woollen cloth. It now contains many small, unique shops and cafes. After time for lunch Rod will lead a walk round the town for those who would like to see the many other interesting buildings. He has previously arranged similar days for the Society, all of which have been very worthwhile. The coach leaves St Wystan's Church at 8.30 am and should be back by about 6 pm. For tickets at £17, please ring me on 01283 701838. Non-members are welcome.

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One Day Jitty Closure, Tuesday 30th July

The jitty between the Repton School Art School and Priory boarding house will be closed on 30th July for one day only. The alternative route to re-join the jitty up to Mitre Drive is via the Burton Road and the footpath between the Red Lion Public House and Redshaws Butchers.

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Repton School Science Priory

The Bursar is pleased to report that the Science Priory will be completed on schedule at the end of July, and will be in use at the start of the new school year. The School is grateful for the forbearance of local residents over the inevitable disruption during the construction project.

The hoarding will soon be coming down and the landscaping completed, including the reinstatement of Jeremiah's Walk.

In the autumn the School will be advertising an open event, providing an opportunity for villagers to tour the new building.

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Repton Casuals Junior Football Tournament

This year's 5-a-side football tournament will be held on Saturday 13th July at Broomhills Lane, kicking off at about 11 am and running through to mid-afternoon.

There will be four leagues, each of eight teams, one for under 8s, 2 for the under 9s and one for under 10s. It promises to be a great day's entertainment, with hog roast, ice cream and various stalls available through the day. Come and see the budding stars of tomorrow!

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Repton Open Gardens ~ Thank you!

On Friday evening, the Open Gardens weekend began with Wine and Music in St Wystan's Church, and a large, appreciative audience enjoyed a concert by the highly talented pupils of Foremarke Hall under the direction of Susan Bloor.

Then, fourteen gardens opened over the weekend included two first timers and an astonishing five 'yellow book' gardens. For once the weather was splendid, not only on the day but during the build-up, so that the gardens really did look their best. With the very late spring and earlier opening dates, many were very different with plants in flower that are normally over. That in itself attracted some visitors; another increasingly important factor is the internet, which this year brought people from as far away as Essex to enjoy a happy, friendly event in the village.

Surrounding the gardens, various activities all added to the buzz. Children could enjoy the scarecrows, the bug trail and hunting for fairies, as well as a trail in St Wystan's Church, while adults were more drawn to cakes and cream teas. The home produce stalls again did well, as did the tombola, plant sales and bookstall.

We are very grateful to a number of generous sponsors: the Awbery Management Centre of High Street, Repton, provided wine at Friday's 'Evening of Wine and Music', East Midlands Airport gave financial help towards printing the brochure, and Zytec Engineering of Repton gave the first prize in our Open Gardens Prize Draw, a splendid Weber One-Touch Original BBQ.

Thank you once again to everyone involved: to those who opened their gardens and to those who contributed in so many other ways, whether by buying advertising or sponsorship, by providing cakes and confectioneries, plants, produce and prizes; to those who were so generous with their time and energy; and finally, to all the visitors who graced our gardens and made it so worthwhile.

The weekend raised nearly £4,500 for St Wystan's Church funds - a great result! Congratulations to Tom Hyde and his team.

Scarecrow Competition Results

Many thanks to everyone who entered a scarecrow this year. In total we had 21 entries, with a number being whole scenes, as well as some stand-alone creations. The standard was very high and the judge had a tough job deciding on the winners; it took him half an hour to deliberate over the W.I.'s delicious cakes!

First Prize: Robert Thompson with his fantastic seaside scene. The judge was impressed with the design that was also displayed, along with the expertly crafted scarecrow's head.

Second Prize: The Groom Family's 'Blast from the Past', with its humorous link to Repton's Viking history definitely appealed to the judge's sense of humour!

Third Prize: The 'Mad Hatter's tea-party' created by the Reynoldson Family. The real cakes as part of the tea-party tempted the judge to delay his round of the village and join the Mad Hatter for a few minutes!

The 'Home' crow made by Repton Primary School's Gardening Club was highly commended for its innovative slant, providing a long lasting mini-beast habitat for the school garden.

Repton Guides were also highly commended for their 'Celebrity Image' scarecrow, a modern entry by the young people of Repton.

With these wonderful examples to inspire you, we hope you are even now planning your entry for next year.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

Report and Accounts 2012 / 2013: To minimize costs and protect the environment, the Parish Council's Report and Accounts will once again be delivered via the Council's website; click on the clearly marked link. Copies will also be posted on all Parish Council noticeboards. However, should you still wish to receive a paper copy, please contact me at the Parish Council office - 01283 701309 - and I can post one out to you.

Summer Activities at The Mitre Field: The Parish Council is pleased to announce that it has again secured a number of activities for the school summer holidays. These are funded by the Parish Council and free for all local young people. Do come along and enjoy the facilities. Wear suitable clothing and footwear, and just turn up on the day.

Tuesday 30th July	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall
Tuesday 6th August	10 am - noon	Combat Mobile
Tuesday 13th August	10 am - noon	Wacky Sports Mobile
Wednesday 21st August	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall
Tuesday 27th August	10 am - noon	Wacky Sports Mobile

The Combat Mobile is new for 2013 and offers a range of exciting activities including an outdoor laser combat arena, mountain bike equipment, Ultimate Frisbee and other challenging team games.

Mark your diary and come to the Mitre Field for a great time!

Local Street Signs: The Parish Council is to undertake an audit of the street name signs within the village to ensure that all are clearly visible and in good condition. If you are aware of unclear or damaged signs please let us know.

Next meeting: Monday 8th July at 7.30 pm in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton. All are welcome.

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

In June, Mark Newbold, formerly a Naval officer, gave a very informative and amusing talk about life on board the Royal Yacht and the Falklands war. Eileen Findlay gave the vote of thanks.

A reminder to members of events in July and August: on Wednesday 10th July we have a fundraising lunch, followed on Sunday 14th by Milton Open Gardens. A fundraising supper on Wednesday 14th August is followed at 12.30 pm on Tuesday 20th by a Mercia canal trip and lunch, and on Wednesday 21st, a fundraising tea.

Next meeting: Wednesday 17th July, 7.30 pm in Milton village hall. Ian Charnwood will talk about cheese-making. New members and guests are very welcome.

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Milton Village Hall

Milton Plant Swap and Sale

Our plant swap and sale in May was well supported, raising a resounding £721 towards the village hall improvements. A huge thank you to all who came.

The Kitchen Extension

I am delighted to report that this is very close to completion and promises to be much more user friendly. The stage door has also been re-instated and will be put to good use in the near future.

Fundraising continues

. . . and with the Summer Fayre, Milton Open Gardens and Edward's Quiz, we are in for a busy couple of weeks. We do very much appreciate your support at any or all of our events. For further information ring me on 07527 700308.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney W.I.

Following general business, the speaker at our June meeting was Graham White, who, with his wife, Judy, explained how over the past 17 years they have created a National Gardens Scheme garden. Woodleighton Grove Gardens at Uttoxeter is certainly a labour of love, built with knowledge and enthusiasm, and has generated over £16,000 for various charities over the last 4 years. A group from Newton Solney W.I. is to visit in July, to see for ourselves!

Next meeting: Tuesday 9th July at 7.30 pm in the village hall. Ian Rogerson will 'Say Cheese'! Flowers by Denise Parker, and teas served by Diana Pool and Tricia Rees. Note that there is no formal meeting in August, but a social event, an Afternoon Tea, is planned. The next whist drive will be on Tuesday 30th July at 7 pm in the village hall. New players are always welcome.

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Newton Solney C of E Infant School

This month's Community Collective Worship for parents, carers and local residents will be on Thursday 4th July at 9.15 in the school hall. Do come.

Our Summer Fair, with stalls, refreshments and games, will take place in the school grounds on Saturday 13th July from 2 to 4 pm. You are most welcome to come along and enjoy the afternoon.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

In June Nigel Fielding gave a most moving talk on his experiences aboard HMS Glamorgan, which was hit by an Exocet missile during the Falklands war with the loss of 14 sailors. He talked about the ship's many roles during this time, including escorting supply ships, and about how basic shipboard life was during the conflict. As part of the 30th anniversary he has recently visited the Falkland Isles. Jane gave a vote of thanks.

I will report next month on our trip to Felly Priory.

Tuesday 2nd July at 2.30 pm

Our monthly business meeting will be followed by holiday photos, a quiz and 'Things of Interest'.

Tuesday 16th July: Day trip to Shrewsbury

The cost of £35 includes coffee and biscuits en route, the cost of the coach, a meal at the Mitton and Mermaid on our return journey and tips. Leaving the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 am, we hope to return to Newton between 7 and 7.30 pm. We anticipate that people will have about 3 hours to do what they choose in Shrewsbury.

There are still some places available; should you like to join us, you will be most welcome. Please contact our secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520.

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Newton Solney Parish Council News

Village Cricket Match: The annual cricket match between the Unicorn and the Brickmaker's will take place on Monday 26th August. Bring your picnic and come down to the recreation field.

Summer Holiday Activities: Fun, free activities for children:

Wednesday 31st July	2 - 4 pm	Wacky Sports Mobile
Thursday 8th August	2 - 4 pm	Play Mobile
Monday 12th August	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall

No need to register - just turn up!

Wheels to Work: Do you know someone who has difficulty getting to their place of work or learning? The 'Wheels to Work' scheme offers a range of transport solutions including bike and moped loan. For more information, contact the Clerk on 701141.

Cycling in the Village: Please note that cyclists are not permitted to ride on any pavements in the village. If you spot dangerous cycling, please report it to the Clerk.

Next Meeting: Friday12th July at 7.30pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

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Gardening Notes

By the end of May we had enjoyed only the briefest glimpses of summer, and must expect everything now to be delayed; it is likely that all crops will be later than usual. The fruit blossom, however, especially on apples and pears, has been among the heaviest I can remember. Let's hope there have been enough bees to ensure a good set! Be ready to thin overcrowded apples, pears and plums to produce larger, better quality fruit, and to prevent overloaded branches from breaking.

In the vegetable garden, sow spinach and parsley for autumn crops, and spring cabbage for next year. Pick courgettes regularly to keep them producing.

When they have finished fruiting, cut the old canes of summer-fruiting raspberries down to the ground. Cut back the fresh side shoots of gooseberries and red and white currants.

Keep feeding tomatoes; remove side shoots from those grown as cordons, and spray them against blight with a copper-based fungicide such as Bordeaux mixture. Apply from now onwards when wet weather is forecast; it will give good protection in a generally dry season, but may only slow the infection in a wet one.

Blight is a fungus that affects tomatoes, potatoes and other Solanums. Appearing in July or August, it first shows as a watery rot on the leaves, but rapidly spreads to the stems and then the fruit or tubers. When potato blight affects about 25% of leaves or marks appear on stems, cut off the foliage, sever the stalks near soil level and rake up the debris. Leave the tubers in the ground for three weeks for the skin to harden before digging them up for storage. Dispose of all infected material immediately; burn it, bury it more than 45cm deep or brown bin it, but do not compost it yourself. You will need to keep a sharp eye out for rot in stored potatoes.

Continue to dead-head roses and container bedding plants.

You may need to cut hedges, especially privet, hawthorn, box and Leylandii. Topiary may need pruning, as also established plum, damson and cherry when they have flowered. Prune the long, summer shoots of wisteria to five or six buds, and cut back overgrown clematis Montana.

Take softwood cuttings of hydrangeas early in the day when they are turgid. As with all cuttings in hot weather, put them immediately in a plastic bag to keep them moist. Remove the lower leaves to reduce water loss, and cover the pot with a plastic bag for three to four weeks, until they are well rooted. Take heel cuttings of lavender, rosemary and sage, and soft cuttings of tender perennials such as fuchsia, argyranthemums, pelargoniums, dianthus, osteospermums and penstemons.

To keep them in flower, water and feed bedding plants well, and make arrangements to water them whilst you are on holiday.

Keep ponds topped up - with rainwater if possible. Remove excess pondweed and any blanket weed, duckweed and dead foliage.

After last year's wet weather, this is likely to be a good season for leather jackets; their grubs eat grass roots, producing yellow patches in lawns in mid-summer. The adult lays eggs in the lawn in July, but by the time they have hatched and the damage has become apparent, it is usually too late for treatment. However, if, following heavy rain or irrigation, you cover small areas with black plastic, the grubs will come to the surface and can be removed.

Sadly, this is the end of my gardening as Jane and I are moving to sheltered accommodation in South Oxfordshire. I have enjoyed writing these notes, and hope they have been of some use to you. May you all continue to enjoy your gardening; we wish you every success!