December 2013 - Contents A Time of Waiting 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 Advent Carol Service, Sunday 1st December Children's Nativity Services, Sunday 15th December Christingle Service, Sunday 22nd December Candlelight Carols, Sunday 22nd December Christmas Morning Shell (for children aged 7+) Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Funerals and Burial of Ashes Joan Elizabeth (Bunty) Marshall Kenneth Ivor Clifford Vincent Obituaries Joan Elizabeth (Bunty) Marshall Kenneth Ivor Clifford Vincent The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Christmas Services Remembrance St Wystan's News Group Meetings A bit of a do ~ PCC Social Events Local Diary Event Details Newton Solney Christmas Market, Sunday 1st December Repton School Music Society: Verdi ~ Requiem, Sunday 1st December Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 4th December The Gatecrashers, Friday 6th December St Mary's Christmas Tree Festival, Friday 6th - Monday 9th December A Christmas Story, Saturday 7th December Repton Christmas Tree Festival, Friday 6th - Sunday 8th December Repton School Carol Service, Sunday 8th December Repton School Christmas Band Concert, Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th December Repton URC: The Seven Christmas Cards, Sunday 15th December Christingle @ Messy Church, Sunday 15th December An Evening of Christmas Music with Ocho, Tuesday 17th December Environment Matters A Season to Recycle You and your Pet An Overactive Thyroid Neighbourhood Watch Keep Safe at Christmas South Derbyshire Stamp & Deliver What's On in South Derbyshire Recycling Levels Soar Repton Village and History Repton Rags Repton Christmas Tree Festival Commemorating the First World War Repton Beavers Repton Scouts Spark 4: Christmas Art Exhibition and Sale Stocking Fillers Repton Road Club Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society The Parish Directory Repton W.I. Recycling in Repton Repton Parish Council Jottings A Very Poor Situation Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton Village Hall Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney Tuesday Club Children's Society Collection Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney C of E Infant School Newton Solney Parish Council News Gardening Notes

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A Time of Waiting

I have heard that if you live to be seventy you will have spent three years of your life just waiting, waiting in queues, waiting in doctors' surgeries, waiting for lunch.

Advent Sunday marks a time of waiting, but what are we waiting for? For most people, particularly children, it is exciting waiting for Christmas, when families will come together, open presents under the Christmas tree and enjoy Christmas fare. And most importantly it is a time when we think about Jesus and his love. It is a time of waiting to celebrate the birth of the Son of God.

But not everyone waits for Christmas with eager anticipation.

Many years ago, there was a wealthy old man who shared a passion for art collecting with his son. They owned priceless works by Picasso and Van Gogh. As winter approached, war engulfed the nation. The young man left home to serve his country and after just a few short weeks he died in action. Distraught and lonely, the old man faced the coming Christmas holiday with anguish and sadness.

On Christmas morning, a knock on the door awakened the depressed old man. As he opened the door he was greeted by a soldier who said: "I was a friend of your son. I was the one he was rescuing when he died. I have something to show you", and he gave the old man a large package. The soldier revealed that he was an artist, and, as the package unwrapped, a portrait of the man's son was revealed. Though the painting was no masterpiece, it did feature the young man's face in striking detail. Overcome with emotion, the old man hung the picture over the fireplace, pushing aside priceless works of art. It became his most prized possession.

The following spring, the old man died. The art world waited with anticipation for the sale of all the art works, which the old man had willed to be auctioned on Christmas Day, the day he had received his greatest gift. Art collectors from around the world gathered to bid for some of the world's most spectacular paintings.

As the auction began the auctioneer asked: "Who will take the son?" There were no bidders until a neighbour of the old man who had known the boy offered £10, all he could afford. The gavel fell, and the auctioneer announced that the auction was over.

Everyone was stunned, then someone said, "What do you mean? We didn't come here for a picture of someone's son. There are millions of pounds worth of art here! What's going on?"

The auctioneer replied, "It's very simple. According to the will of the Father, whoever takes the Son gets everything."

The message of that story is the same this Christmas. It's not just about possessions and all the trappings of the festive season. It is about waiting and watching, and being ready for Jesus' return. So, as we build up to these last days before Christmas, let us refrain from rushing towards the festivities, and enjoy the peace that comes from waiting on the Lord.

Wishing you all a peaceful Advent and a very happy Christmas.

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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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Advent Carol Service

This year's joint service, led by the Moderator of the East Midlands Synod, Rev Peter Meek, will be held at Carlton Road United Reformed Church, Carlton Road, Littleover, at 6 pm on Sunday 1st December. You will be very welcome to join us there!

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Children's Nativity Services

At both services on Sunday 15th December, the children and young people will entertain us with a Christmas play, 'The Seven Christmas Cards'. The evening service will be followed by coffee and mince pies.

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Christingle Service

On the morning of Sunday 22nd December everyone makes their own Christingle to take home and to let its light shine throughout the Christmas season.

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Candlelight Carols

On the evening of Sunday 22nd December, come and sing your favourite carols and listen to the story of Jesus' birth in the candles' glow, followed by coffee and mince pies.

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Christmas Morning at 10.30 am

Come and celebrate the birth of Jesus at a service for all the family that lasts about half an hour. Remember to bring a present to show to the congregation!

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SHELL Group

. . . for children and young people aged 7 and over, meets only once in December, on Monday 2nd December for a Pyjama Party! Come and join in the fun!

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Next Coffee Morning: Saturday, 11 January, 10.30 - 11.30 am

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Joan Elizabeth (Bunty) Marshall of Burton Road, Repton, died on Monday 28th October aged 91. A service at St Wystan's Church on 11th November was followed by cremation at Bretby.

Kenneth Ivor Clifford Vincent, formerly of Chestnut Way, Repton, died on Wednesday 30th October aged 90. A service at St Wystan's Church on 13th November was followed by cremation at Bretby.

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Obituaries

Bunty Marshall
20th April 1922 - 28th October 2013

Born in a house by the Cross in the centre of Repton, Bunty (née Joan Elizabeth Tailby) remained at the heart of the village throughout her life. Her mother's family, the Eatons, went back here for several generations; her parents are buried in the churchyard, and all her mother's four brothers, killed in the First World War, are commemorated on the village war memorial.

Two years after her birth, Bunty's parents joined Jack Dean who had created a fledgling bus service, the 'Blue Buses', between Burton and Derby and was in fierce competition with the already established Trent Motor Traction service. It was a stressful life as buses raced to reach the next bus stop and pick up the waiting passengers. Very few people owned cars so buses were a lifeline for people working in Burton or Derby, and the seriousness with which the Blue Bus Company regarded its duty to its passengers was not lost on the local population; it developed a reputation and is still fondly remembered for the quality of its service and the friendliness of its staff, who were urged to bear in mind that they were providing a service and without the customers there would be no job. Politeness was the watch-word with every passenger receiving an individual 'thank you' as they alighted. During the Second World War, many troops were stationed in the area. On the evenings when the soldiers went to the towns, the buses were very crowded, but no one was ever left behind; on one occasion the company was fined for allowing 37 people to stand in the aisle - all facing the same way for compactness!

Bunty's schooldays were spent at Burton Girls High School. Her memories of difficulty in concentrating and waiting outside the headmistress' office are an early sign perhaps of the independence and strong will that were such marked aspects of her character.

After school, Bunty's mother wanted her to study domestic science, but instead she persuaded her parents to let her go to a school for beauty culture in London. She didn't enjoy it, but by now the war had started, and she also did voluntary work at a forces canteen and helped at an officers' club in Park Lane. In 1940 she volunteered for the WAAFS, the WRNS, the Red Cross and the ATS, and after a long wait, in July 1941 she joined the WRNS as one of four despatch riders at Rosyth, sharing four motor cycles, an AJS a BSA 500, an Ariel, and a Norton 500. These were to be the most exciting five years of her life. Her duty was to deliver signals to the many ships in Rosyth dockyard. It may sound easy now, but in the dark, wet and bitter cold of a Scottish wartime winter, with constant change and activity in the dockyards, rail tracks to negotiate and only a small blue headlight on a huge bike, it was very tricky, and a visit to the ship's wardroom for warming coffee was always welcome. It was here, on HMS Wallace that she met - but didn't recognise at the time - Prince Philip of Greece, later to become the Duke of Edinburgh, who was Officer of the Watch.

There was great sadness, particularly when she had delivered sailing orders to a ship that never returned, but there were parties and fun too, and Bunty was never one to miss an opportunity! On leave in Repton too, she remembered fondly the Friday night dances in the British Legion hut and the 'jolly young men' who were stationed at Burnaston, and she would later fight to perpetuate their memory.

Bunty's job as a despatch rider came to an end in September 1944 when she crashed through the windscreen of a light armoured van and spent three weeks in hospital. Here she found many, many sad cases. The girl in the next bed had had half her face blown away whilst on duty manning an ack-ack gun, another was having a new nose grafted from her arm. Many of the girls had been working in munitions factories.

After discharge from hospital and home leave, Bunty was sent to Donibristle, a Fleet Air Arm station, to drive cars and lorries, and then to the Admiralty in London. Big cars were nothing new; at 17 she had passed her driving test in her father's Alvis Speed 20, but life in London was very different. Quarters in Notting Hill Gate were a far cry from the cold damp and tiny fireplace of Donibristle. Duties at the Admiralty consisted of driving Sea Lords, and driving vans to the docks to collect or deliver messages; it was a dangerous time as London was being bombed by V1s and V2s. Typically, however, Bunty also remembered the fun, the young officers, the occasional good lunch, the lunchtime concerts and eventually, when the war in Europe was over, the celebrations, singing and dancing in Trafalgar Square. But by now she couldn't wait to be demobilised, and when the great day arrived in 1946 she burnt her uniform. Even so, she maintained her links with the WRNS, a regular attendee at WRNS events at St James' Palace and Matlock.

Towards the end of the war Bunty had become engaged to Richard Glen, a sailor on HMS Newmarket, a destroyer on the Arctic convoys, but after demob she broke it off. In 1948 she married Douglas Marshall an old friend since 1941, an ex Spitfire pilot, and left Repton to live in Notting Hill Gate. Her mother, who had been incapacitated by a stroke since 1947, died in 1955, and her father in 1957, whereupon Bunty became a partner in the family business, commuting from London to Repton many times. After her business partner died in 1967, she and Douglas left London for Repton to take over. This was no idle involvement; Ros Hudson recalled how Bunty would get on the Derby bus at the Willington depot and travel to Findern where she would change buses and travel to Burton; at Burton she would travel via Etwall to Derby, and then return to the depot to deal with office work. "We always thought it was to see her employees were smartly dressed and polite."

Sadly, Douglas died of lung cancer in1989, but in 1992 Bunty received a phone call which led to a reunion with Richard Glen, now living in the United States. They became very close and travelled across the ocean to meet two or three times a year until he came to live permanently in Repton. They had a lovely life together until he too developed cancer and died in 2002.

Ouside her business and her family, her children and grandchildren, the older Bunty was very involved in village life, in a number of village societies, in the church, its history, and the history of the village. She was a founder member of Repton Village History Group, its President, and active in the group's affairs and its archive right up to her death. She was particularly keen on remembering and honouring our war dead.

Bunty had a great love of life, she was vital, cheerful and optimistic, she found joy in little things such as her collection of hat pins, she was strong-willed and resilient, above all, she had grit. She inspired great affection and will be widely missed.

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Kenneth Ivor Clifford Vincent
19th June 1923 - 30th October 2013

Ken was born in Buckinghamshire but by 1931 was living in Birkenhead where his father, a Congregational minister, changed careers to become a teacher. With the outbreak of war, Birkenhead was in obvious danger from air raids, and in 1939 Ken was evacuated with his school to Oswestry. Here he met Mary, and their relationship grew, largely by correspondence, while they were away at college, Mary at teacher training college and Ken at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, doing Mechanical Sciences. In 1945, soon after Ken had joined the Rolls Royce Aero design department at Barnoldswick, they married.

Anyone who has flown long distance will be grateful for Ken's legacy. During the early 1950s he was the technical design supervisor for the Conway by-pass engine, the world's first civilian turbofan engine, which powered amongst others the VC10 and Boeing 707 420. Then as now, Rolls-Royce was at the cutting edge of technology, and Ken was in the thick of it, analysing and solving the most advanced technical challenges. In the mid-50s he initiated the use of computers for performance calculations.

His technical knowledge led to an appointment as Rolls Royce's resident representative with Westinghouse at Philadelphia and Kansas, and then on the West Coast as senior engineering representative responsible for installing Conway engines in DC8s and 707s.

By the late 1950s he had moved into technical sales, dealing with the US government, aerospace manufacturers and operators. Returning to the UK in 1959 he joined the Sales and Services Organisation based in Derby, where he was successively Chief Technical Sales Engineer, Manager of Sales Engineering, and General Manager of the Spares Operation, a multi-million pound operation, marketing, selling and supplying a world-wide market. He dealt with government and commercial customers, both aviation and gas turbine markets on all continents, and spent a lot of time in the air!

In 1969 Ken became president of Rolls Royce Canada. In a difficult industrial climate, this was probably the most challenging time of his career, requiring all his previous experience to turn around a company that had been on the point of insolvency.

Back in the UK in 1972, Ken helped to develop Rolls Royce's new Business Information System. He retired in June 1983.

In 1962 Ken and Mary had bought their house in Chestnut Way, and here they enjoyed retirement to the full, making up for all the time they had been forced to spend apart. Ken supported Burton Albion and loved painting, particularly landscapes and flowers. Together they were involved with various local organisations including the local Conservative Association, the Derby Dilettantes, the local National Trust group, RATS and St Wystan's Church. They were keen gardeners, opening their extensive garden for Repton Open Gardens. And for many years, with Mary's invaluable help, Ken edited the Parish Magazine.

Recent years have seen a sad decline in body and mind, and the loss of his beloved Mary this April was a major challenge for him, but we will remember him as he was: behind a wonderful dry sense of humour, Ken was a man of purpose, energy and drive, of great organisational ability and a no nonsense approach, but also very humble, his values of integrity, loyalty, faithfulness and gentleness underpinned by a deep Christian faith.

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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

Christmas Services

Christingle Service at St Mary's: Sunday 1st December at 10 am

This will form part of the Family Service. Everyone will be most welcome to join in this Celebration of the Light of Christ.

Advent Carol Service at St Wystan's: Sunday 1st December at 6 pm

This service of candlelight and soft illuminations begins our preparations for Advent; with well-known Advent carols and music sung by the Wystan Singers, our thoughts are drawn to the birth of Jesus and to the true story of the season. Do note the early start, which will allow you to go on afterwards to the MusSoc Concert in Pears School.

Parish Communion and Gift Service at St Wystan's: Sunday 8th December at 9.45 am

Again this year, our gifts to support the valuable and much needed work of Home-Start in South Derbyshire will be donations of money. These are challenging times for all organisations that rely on charitable giving, and Home-Start is enormously grateful for our help. If you would like to contribute, please bring cash or a cheque payable to 'Home-Start South Derbyshire'. Your gifts will be received during the service as usual, and a representative will join us at the service to tell us more about their work.

MESSY Christingle at St Wystan's: Sunday 15th December at 4 pm

Come and make your own Christingle, share in a short service and stay for tea. A collection will be taken for the work of The Children's Society; if you would like a collecting flame to fill and bring on the day, please pick one up from church. Children at Repton Primary School will be able to take one from school.

Christmas Carols by Candlelight: Sundays 8th and 22nd December

The churches will be candlelit for these popular services.

8th: St Saviour's at 6.30 pm.   At this popular service with traditional readings and well known carols we are joined by the boarders from Foremarke School, and the Chamber Choir will sing anthems. Afterwards, by the kind invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Merriman, there will be coffee and mince pies in the assembly hall.

22nd: St Mary's at 4 pm.   The warm cosy atmosphere of St Mary's lends itself to a candlelit service. With traditional readings and well known carols, this service will warm the hearts of everyone.

22nd: St Wystan's at 6.30 pm.   Again this year we will celebrate the traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols, similar to that broadcast from King's College Chapel on Christmas Eve. Hearing the Christmas story, as well as listening to and joining in some wonderful carols, will remind our hearts and minds of what Christmas really means.

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

Everyone is welcome to this popular service where children sing Christmas songs and use figures from the crib scene to build up the Christmas tableau as the Christmas story is told. The Church Army introduced this way of preparing for Christmas and so we make a retiring collection for their work in disadvantaged urban communities in our country.

Midnight Communion: Christmas Eve, 11.30 pm

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

Christmas Day Services

Repton at 8 am and Newton Solney at 10 am

Christmas Communion.

St Wystan's, Family Carol Service at 10.30 am

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

Benefice Communion, Sunday 29th December, St Wystan's at 9.45 am

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

New Year's Eve Watch-night Service: St Wystan's at 11.30 pm

The Watch-night Service welcomes in the New Year and is followed by bell-ringing, bring and share refreshments and fireworks.

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Remembrance

On a crisp, sunny day, the Royal British Legion Club, supported by the local scout and guide movements, paraded to St Wystan's. The church was almost full, but this year we had printed enough service sheets!

The standard bearers performed impeccably: thank you to Liz Massey-Beeston (Beavers), Mary Sedgwick (Brownies), Tom Palmer (Cubs), Freyja Payne (Guides), Lucy Williamson (Scouts), and Jo Noble (Repton British Legion).

After the service the congregation gathered around the War Memorial. Wreaths were laid by Roger Chapman, Deputy Lieutenant of Derbyshire, on behalf of the Queen, by Tom Hyde, Chairman of the Repton Branch of the Royal British Legion, John Shortt on behalf of Repton Parish Council, Peter Smith for SDDC. Charlotte Warren-French and Charlie Walker, and Abigail Soutar and Thomas Watson laid wreaths on behalf of Repton Primary and St Wystan's Schools respectively. Then, with the Deputy Lieutenant taking the salute at The Cross, the parade processed back to the Legion where refreshments were to hand.

The next day, the 11th November, RBL members attended an Act of Witness at the War Memorial for the two minutes' silence.

The service at Foremark was enhanced by the contribution of staff and pupils from Foremarke Hall. The Headmaster, Richard Merriman led the Act of Remembrance, with the names of those who had lost their lives including one ex-pupil, and trumpeters from the school played The Last Post and Reveille. The high standard of music at the school was also evident in the anthem sung by the Chamber Choir.

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St Wystan's News

Group Meetings

Intercessory Prayer for Healing

. . . next meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 2nd December.

The Bible Study Group

. . . studying The Acts of the Apostles next meets at 28 The Pastures at 7.30 pm on Thursday 12th December.

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A bit of a do ~ PCC Social Events

Our social events continue to be varied and fun, with so many people involved in both helping and participating.

After the Open Gardens we had afternoon tea in the sun in Carol and Chris Lloyd's garden. In July a lovely concert organised by Neil and Jane Millensted involved a variety of very talented local musicians. More summer weather gave us two very well supported coffee mornings, the first in August hosted by Wendy and Steve Longden, and the second in September by Jenny and David Jones.

The Barn Dance in October was a sell-out. Families enjoyed baked potatoes, which they then burnt off with energetic dancing; the children demonstrating how it should be done.

Harvest festival was later this year, but a Bring & Share lunch in church was much enjoyed. The annual Quiz Night was great fun as ever, and Audrey Morris kept our grey cells working, not always very successfully, but we did try to keep up!

Thank you to everyone involved in providing such enjoyable events, we do appreciate all the work that you do. And thank you to everyone who took part and made them such a success.

Our Christmas Tree Festival comes in early December; do come and see how lovely the church looks filled with the cleverly decorated trees. See page 17 for details.

Date for your Diary

Saturday 25th January: Burns Night at Three Limes, Bretby Lane, Newton Solney.

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Newton Solney Christmas Market Sunday 1st December, 12 - 4 pm on Newton Solney Recreation Field Christmas craft gifts ~ Children's Craft Stall ~ Cakes ~ Cards ~ Cheeses Hog Roast ~ Mulled Wine ~ Raffle and much more Santa will be there too, and Burton Concert Band will play from 2 pm.

Repton School Music Society directed by John Bowley Verdi ~ Requiem Sunday 1st December at 7.45 pm in Pears School, Repton School Elizabeth Meister, soprano             Madeleine Shaw, alto David Butt Philip, tenor             James Oldfield, bass Tickets £13, programmes £2, from Repton School Lodge, just inside the Arch, or Morag Hill on 01283 702799

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

St Mary's Christmas Tree Festival The Gatecrashers Friday 6th December at 7.30 pm in St Mary's Church A light-hearted evening of music Tickets from Hazel, 701244, £10 to include Bubbles and Bites In aid of The Rainbows Hospice and Church Funds

St Mary's Christmas Tree Festival of Carols and Christmas Songs Friday 6th - Monday 9th December, 11 am - 4 pm Stalls and Refreshments £1 entrance, children free In aid of The Rainbows Hospice and Church Funds

A Christmas Story amongst the Christmas Trees in St Wystan's Church Saturday 7th December at 4 pm Come and listen to magical Christmas stories for children

Friday 6th - Sunday 8th December Repton Christmas Tree Festival St Wystan's Church Friday and Saturday, 11 am - 6 pm; Sunday, 1 - 6 pm Saturday at 4 pm ~ Children's Christmas Story Sunday at 3 pm ~ Live Christmas Music Entry £2 (children free) Refreshments available ~ Craft and Produce Stall In aid of The Children's Society & St Wystan's Church

Repton School Carol Service for parents, staff and parish followed by drinks and mince pies in the 400 Hall Foyer Sunday 8th December at 6.30 pm Repton School Chapel           No ticket required

Repton School Christmas Band Concert Repton School Concert and Jazz Bands and Foremarke Hall Wind Band Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th December at 7.30 pm 400 Hall, Repton School For free tickets, ring 559343.

Milton Lunch Club Thursday 12th December at 12.30 pm in Milton village hall £5 per person includes a raffle ticket to win a food hamper. Contact Lynn on 01283 704540 or Sue, 01283 701978

Repton United Reformed Church Christmas Nativity Services The children and young people present The Seven Christmas Cards Sunday 15th December, 11 am and 6.30 pm

Christingle @ Messy Church Come and make your own Christingle, share in a short service and stay for tea St Wystan's Church, Sunday 15th December, 4 to 5.30 pm A collection will be taken for the work of The Children's Society; if you would like a collecting flame to fill and bring on the day, please pick one up from church. Children at Repton Primary School will be able to take one from school. To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or . For all the family!

An Evening of Christmas Music with Ocho Tuesday 17th December at 8 pm in The Robert Beldam Hall Ocho is an exciting new vocal octet who celebrate the joy of singing. Join us for a wonderful evening of Christmas music from popular Christmas songs and carols to beautiful sacred Christmas music, truly something for everyone. Refreshments will be served during the interval. Tickets £7, concessions £5, to include refreshments, from Derek Gardner, 07767 806677, derek@ochosingers.com, ochosingers.com

Environment Matters

A Season to Recycle

There are lots of things you can do to help reduce the amount of rubbish going to landfill at Christmas, and the good news is that reducing, reusing and recycling is getting even easier.

• If Santa has already tipped you off about a large present, why not make space for it before the big day? Recycle unwanted items or take them to a charity shop.
• Unwanted gifts just sit around in cupboards and drawers before eventually they end up in a charity shop, so how about buying consumables such as cinema tickets, club memberships, gift tokens or gin?
• Give your garden a present and start composting. Not only is it a great way to get rid of food waste, but if you haven't had a compost heap before, you'll be surprised at how much it will improve your soil.
• If you receive new electrical items, your old items, now unwanted but still working, could be reused by a local charity such as the British Heart Foundation, but check online (and if in doubt, ring) to see if your items are suitable. Recycle broken electrical items at your nearest household waste recycling centre.
• Being savvy with leftover food can save you money, and there are lots of recipes online. My favourite, from Netmums, is Christmas pudding ice cream.
• Christmas cards can be included with other cardboard.
• Most Christmas cards will go in the green bin with other cardboard, but not decorated or foil-backed cards or cards that play a tune.
• Large cardboard such as flattened boxes should be left securely at the side of the bin.
• Recycle your tree. (More about this next month.)

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You and your Pet

An overactive Thyroid

Hyperthyroidism, often referred to as an overactive thyroid, is a common condition in older cats. It is rarely seen before seven years of age and is as common in males as in females.

The thyroid gland is divided into two lobes, one on either side of the windpipe in your cat's neck, and produces thyroid hormone which is responsible for a number of bodily functions: it is involved in the control of metabolism, affects the heart rate, helps control the breakdown of fatty tissues, and is involved in red blood cell production.

The enlargement of the thyroid gland is mostly due to a non-cancerous change in the tissue. Thyroid hormone increases the metabolic body rate and can produce a rise in both heart rate and blood pressure. This in turn can put pressure on the retinal and brain blood vessels and cause thickening of the heart muscle. It can contribute to bleeds within the eye and retinal detachment.

Common signs seen with hyperthyroidism include: weight loss; excess appetite; vomiting; diarrhoea; an unkempt coat, sometimes with dandruff; increased thirst; increased activity.

The thyroid glands can generally be felt by careful palpation of the neck. It is also a good idea to take a blood sample, as this can check a number of organ functions including both the thyroid level and how the kidneys are performing.

There are a number of ways to treat hyperthyroidism: surgery, tablets, diet and radioactive iodine treatment. Tablets are possibly the most common treatment as they can reduce the thyroid level and enable us to see whether there is any kidney failure that should be monitored. Sometimes tablets are needed to control your cat's blood pressure.

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

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Neighbourhood Watch

Keep Safe at Christmas

Have a good time: Do enjoy yourself; don't put yourself at risk

Plan how you are going to get home safely at the end of the night;

Stay with a trusted friend at all times;

Don't be afraid to say no;

Don't drink beyond your safe limit.

Online Shopping: With so much to organise, presents to buy, and parties to enjoy, December can be hectic; online shopping is a blessing, but fraudsters are well aware of that and just waiting to relieve you of your cash. So, a few tips:

Keep your security software, your firewall and your browser up-to-date.

NEVER click on email links unless you totally trust the sender.

NEVER 'update', 'validate' or 'confirm' your details in response to an email.

NEVER enter your full PIN online. NEVER send it in an email.

Only deal with reputable sellers: use sites you know or ones that have been recommended to you. Always type the address yourself or use a search engine.

Check the URL in the web browser carefully.

Trust your instincts; if an offer looks too good to believe, it is.

At the payment stage, look for 'https' in the website address.

Keep receipts and check them against your statement; if there is a transaction you didn't authorise, speak to your card company immediately.

Being careful may be a pain, but it could mae the difference between putting your presents under the tree and sitting there on the big day with nothing to give.

Remember:

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

Always look out for your elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

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South Derbyshire

Stamp & Deliver Derby & District Scouts deliver your Christmas mail

Stamp & Deliver is run entirely by volunteers, and all profits go to local Scout and Guide Groups and local charities. This year's chosen charities are the Children's Air Ambulance and Cardiac Risk in the Young.

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

Stamps cost 25p each. For details of the delivery area, look out for the leaflet through your letter box, but in general it includes all of Derby, its suburbs and surroundings extending to Breaston in the east, Belper to the north, Hatton and Hilton to the west, and Ticknall and Melbourne to the south. Lists of the delivery areas are on each of the post boxes. Please don't include cards for other areas; they can't be delivered. For further information, see stampanddeliver.com or call the hotline on 07930 760 655 between 2nd and 16th December.

The first collection will be on Monday 2nd December, and the final collection at 3 pm on Monday 16th December, when all sales points will be closed. Cards will be delivered by Christmas Eve. Please remember to use the postcode.

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

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

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

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What's On in South Derbyshire

Stargazing and wildlife watching, umpah nights and food fairs, pancake races and winter walks, you can find all that, and so much more, in the new edition of 'What's On'.

On SDDC website, search for 'What's On in South Derbyshire'. The guide is also available at Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre at Sharpe's Pottery.

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Recycling Levels Soar

SDDC is delighted with the initial response to the green bin scheme. In the first two weeks, 417.12 tonnes was recycled compared with 144.9 tonnes over the same period last year. Strong showings were recorded for plastics and cardboard, which couldn't previously be left at the kerbside.

Plastics (types 1,2, 5 and 6) and cardboard can now be recycled alongside tins, cans, aerosols, foil and foil trays, mixed glass, paper and textiles.

These cannot be recycled!

Items that can not be recycled through the green bins include envelope windows, plastic bags and film, Tetra Paks and drinks cartons, foil pouches such as those for pet food, and polystyrene packaging.

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Repton Village & History

Repton Rags Boys & girls aged 7 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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Repton Christmas Tree Festival, Friday 6th to Sunday 8th December
Friday and Saturday, 11 am - 6 pm; Sunday, 1 - 6 pm

Do come and support Repton's Christmas Tree Festival at St Wystan's Church. If you came two years ago, you will know how magnificent the church looks with trees decorated by local organisations and individuals.

This year's theme is 'Travel and Journeys'. There will be a programme to guide you around, but you will have fun guessing which organisation has decorated which tree.

On Saturday 7th at 4 pm there will be a Christmas Story time, a chance for children to sit among the Christmas trees and listen to some poems and a story or two, all about the fun and magic of Christmas. There will also be live Christmas music on Sunday from 3 to 3.45 pm to accompany you as you look around.

Entrance is £2, with the proceeds shared between The Children's Society and the church. Refreshments and a craft and produce stall will be available.

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Commemorating the First World War

A number of events are being arranged in Repton to commemorate the outbreak of war in 1914, and, at its meeting in November, the Parish Council decided to draw the threads together.

The Parish Council itself is planning to sow poppies in the arboretum. They are likely to be near the British Legion tree and the entrance. Help has already been offered, but more would be gratefully received; contact reptoncouncil@btinternet.com.

Repton Village History Group is producing a booklet about those whose names appear on the war memorials in Repton, Foremark, Ingleby and Milton. A small print run is planned and the History Group may apply for a grant to cover it. One problem is that the memorial in Milton has disappeared; it is thought it broke up when being moved. The top is still in the porch of the village hall but the names have gone. There is a rumour that the board is in a cupboard somewhere. If you can help to track it down, please contact Andy Austen on 702448.

Repton School is planning a number of events, one of which will be an exhibition organised by Paul Stevens, the School archivist, at which members of the village and local community will be most welcome.

The Royal British Legion is also planning an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia in the British Legion.

All plans are still at an early stage, but we thought it would be helpful for you to know what is being organised; you may be interested in helping or contributing in some way. If your organisation is also making plans, or would like to be involved, or if you would like help or advice, please contact Carol Lloyd on 702410.

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Repton Beavers

During November we celebrated Bonfire Night, learnt the meaning of Remembrance Sunday and took part in the Remembrance ceremony at St Wystan's Church, where Liz Massey-Beeston carried our standard. We completed a number of circuits in our 'keep-fit' night, and visited Pets at Home - all spiced with lots of fun and games.

If you have a child who is interested in becoming a Beaver or, just as importantly, know someone who might be interested in becoming a leader and want more information, contact Andy Read on 07790 909138. Available places fill quickly, so please ring early to avoid disappointment.

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Carol Singing with the Children's Christmas Orchestra

Come and join the Children's Christmas Orchestra at 5 pm, Saturday 21st December, on the 'green' at The Crescent, Askew Grove, for festive carol singing. We'll sing and play outside as long as the cold weather permits, then dash down to the village hall to warm up with hot drinks and mince pies. Wrap up warm and bring a torch. Everyone welcome! If you need more information, please contact me.

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Repton Scouts

There were two main themes to the Scouts programme in November. The first was Christmas Trees, or rather, making lanterns to decorate the tree; this is a project for the Electronics Badge. The other theme was navigation and hiking; the Scouts had an exercise to find their way to the special location for investing four new Scouts. They also had a night hike to the Ingleby Caves and a sleepover at the Den. If you are an adult interested in helping run Scouts, even if you cannot commit to every week, and want more information, please contact Mike Knowles on 07989 990119.

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Spark 4: Christmas Art Exhibition and Sale
Monday - Friday from 2 - 5 pm at New Court Gallery, Burton Road

Repton School's fourth annual Christmas Art Exhibition and Sale will feature the work of 25 artists, craftsmen and designers, and includes painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, cards and furniture. You are warmly invited to a preview on Tuesday 3rd December at 6.30 pm; then the exhibition runs until Friday 13th December.

This is an opportunity to buy unique and affordable Christmas present art.

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Stocking Fillers

The Repton Spoon is an ideal gift for anyone with Repton connections. In silver-plated pewter it costs £35. Contact Frances Wimbush on 703180. There are pictures at reptonchurch.org.uk.

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

Greetings cards, a guide to St Wystan's Church by Dr. Harold Taylor, and the 'Repton Trail' are all available from St Wystan's Church. The latter describes notable buildings found on a walk through the village, a very useful guide for visitors and newcomers. For St Wystan's Church mugs, £7.50, and tea towels, £5, contact Karen Perks on 702392, or Frances Wimbush as above.

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

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Repton Road Club

Now in its second year, Repton's own cycling club goes from strength to strength with new members joining every month. We stage a ride every Sunday morning, so if you're looking to improve your fitness, if you're making a return to cycling, just starting out or looking for company on a training ride, then why not meet up on Sunday morning at 9 am for a ride of approximately two hours. All abilities and ages are welcome. For more details, go to facebook.com/ReptonRoadClub or ring Neil on 703363.

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Repton Village History Group

Unfortunately we have had to cancel our December social meeting, so our next meeting is on Tuesday 21st January when Shirley Horton will deliver her follow-on talk on Derbyshire Adventurers. Although dealing mainly with historical figures, Shirley does include modern adventurers; Dame Ellen MacArthur was an example from her last talk. Repton village hall at 7.30 pm - members £2, visitors £3, tea, coffee and biscuits included. For further information, contact Andy Austen on 702448.

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Repton Village Society

At the November meeting, local photographer, Helen Willis, showed superb shots of the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, birds and tigers during her talk, 'Treasures of India'.

Helen also very kindly judged the entries in the annual photographic competition, presented the prizes and commented on the winning entries. First prize went to Sandra Raby, second to Gillian Hartley and third to Roger Paulson. Gillian and Roger were also highly commended for other entries. Cheese and wine concluded a most pleasant evening.

Thursday 2nd January: 'Bird Ringing in Rybachy'

Rybachy is a small village in the Kaliningrad region of Russia. Our speaker, Colin Mcshane, and friends were the first westerners to visit after the fall of communism; they have returned many times since. Colin's talk is about the region, the study of bird migration, and how the inhabitants have coped with the changes in their way of life.

Saturday 15th February: Another evening of music with Bill Smith and his Strictly Swing Quintet

Bring your own food, drink and glasses! Tickets at the same price as last year, £8, are now available. Bill's music always helps create a most pleasant atmosphere in the hall, much enjoyed by everyone. You can either make up a table with friends beforehand, or leave it to us to place you. As in previous years, all are welcome.

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Parish Directory

We are revising the Parish Directory, intending to distribute it in January. If you are responsible for a local club or society, sporting or social, and have not been contacted by Tom Hyde, who does the legwork, please contact either him on 703662 or Chris Lloyd, 702410, before the 7th December.

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Repton W.I.

At the November meeting Val Williams spoke about Burton on Trent in the early 1950s. The river was a hive of activity, Burton companies were involved in the Festival of Britain, Drakelow power station was built as well as new housing and schools, and, after the war years, everyone looked forward to the new decade. Members who grew up in the Burton area could recall the old baths and people travelling by bike. Life was very different from the 21st century.

Previously, members and husbands had enjoyed a guided tour of the JCB factory, seeing how the production line worked and visiting the museum to see how the company started. A wonderful cream tea completed the visit.

Another lunch at the Mulberry restaurant was arranged for later in the month with others to follow in the New Year. Decorations for the W.I. tree at Repton Christmas Tree Festival were completed.

Next month's meeting is on Tuesday 10th December, with Maria Whatton's 'The Story Teller' and a gift exchange (wrapped, about £2). 7.15 pm in the village hall. Visitors and new members are always welcome.

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Please DON'T leave your waste at the Village Hall

The recycling units in Repton village hall car park have now gone. The waste disposal point in Burton Road Car Park is also to close. There is one at Twyford Road Playing Fields in Willington.

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Repton Parish Council Jottings

Tree Planting: The Parish Council is replacing the damaged trees in Pinfold Lane and Springfield Road this month, and an additional tree will be planted to enhance this area. Three new trees will be dedicated in the Memorial Arboretum, which is now at its full capacity. We will however maintain a waiting list for future plantings should a site become available.

Repton Cross: During the past year the Parish Council has worked to develop a plan for the restoration and future protection of the Cross. There has been regular consultation with DCC and the Parish Council was led to believe that a positive outcome was assured. However, despite the frequent damage caused by passing traffic and consequent expense to DCC, modifications to the vicinity of The Cross have now been deemed to be 'environmental' and will not therefore attract funding from the Highways Department. The Parish Council is utterly dismayed by this decision.

The Dales: Further to the comments last month, we have again been advised that there will be no progress to develop this site until there is a viable business case for a new care facility in Repton. Despite assurances to the contrary, made last year by DCC representatives, we have been left with a decaying eyesore that could become a target for vandalism and other anti-social behaviour. Yet again, the Parish Council believes it has been given false assurances by Derbyshire County Council.

Willington Surgery: On a positive note, we have been advised that plans are being finalized for a new pedestrian crossing by the surgery in Willington, to allow easier access for those who use public transport. The Parish Council is continuing to press for bus shelters there too.

Local Recycling: The green bins are proving very successful. Recycling at the village hall has now closed and the station in Burton Road will close soon, but the one in Willington will remain open and can be used to recycle tetra packs. Extreme Weather and Snow: Up to date information on gritting activity and road and school closures can be found at derbyshire.gov.uk/snow. Next meeting: Monday 9th December in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton, at 7.30 pm. All are welcome.

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A Very Poor Situation

Following DCC's decision not to proceed with work at the Cross and The Dales, Councillor Martyn Ford wrote to them expressing his anger:

"Regarding works to The Cross, I cannot begin to tell you how disappointed and annoyed I am to find myself in the position of going back now to Repton Parish Council, after several years of reassurance and encouragement from Senior Officers that this project was moving slowly forward, only to tell them that it will not now go ahead. . . .

"Coming on to the sad situation at The Dales, yet again, despite promises that the Parish Council and local residents would not be left with a decaying eyesore that could be a target for vandalism, we have been left with exactly that.

"This is a very poor situation that shows the authority in a very bad light, that looks like we don't follow through and do what we say we are going to do. No wonder the public has a poor perception of local politics; looking at these two instances, in the same parish, could you blame them!"

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Village Hall

Hall Repairs: A quote to repair cracking to the walls has been accepted and the work will start shortly, the timing to be arranged around bookings for the hall.

Milton Lunch Club - this month, because of Christmas, on the 12th - is proving very successful, and old friends have been re-united. Everyone is welcome, so please contact Sue on 701978, or Lynne, 704540, if you would like to join.

Milton Christmas Party is on 6th December, and everyone is welcome. It starts at 7.30 pm with supper at 8. There is no bar but you are welcome to bring your own tipple, and there will be Christmas entertainment and a raffle. For reservations, please contact Sue on 701978 or Polly, 703436. It costs £10 each.

To view or book the Hall please contact Polly on 703436

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Milton W.I.

Our monthly meeting is too late for the magazine, but I can remind members that the December meeting will be at 7.30 pm on Wednesday 18th December in Milton village hall. Our speaker, Ian Rogerson, will not only entertain us, he will also be providing most of the festive meal followed by mince pies and coffee. Bring along your appetite and don't forget your bran tub prize!

The Group carol service will be on Sunday 8th December at 2.30 pm at Findern.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

In October we enjoyed a fascinating guided tour of The Jewellery Quarter Museum and of George Hook's Mother of Pearl Workshop. George had given us a most entertaining talk earlier in the year and kindly invited us to visit him at work.

At our November meeting David Bradbury entertained us with an illustrated talk on the Manchester Ship Canal by following a journey taken in the 1960s, emphasising the industrial changes that have taken place over the years.

On Tuesday 3rd December at 2.30 pm we have our Christmas Social in the village hall, and on 10th December, 12 for 12.30 pm, club members will be joining together for a Christmas Lunch at Newton Park Hotel.

For more information on our activities, do contact our secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520.

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Children's Society Collection

St Mary's annual collection for the Children's Society raised £471.36; a big 'thank you' to box holders on behalf of all the vulnerable children and young people whom the society supports. If you would like to learn more about the work of the Children's Society or wish to become a box holder, please contact Linda Williams on 701366.

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Newton Solney W.I.

At our November meeting, the AGM, we elected a new president, Vanessa Archer, together with a smaller committee of six members. A big thank you to Hazel Ward, the retiring president, and those committee members stepping down, many of whom have done sterling work for many years, and who have generously agreed to continue with various important tasks to help with the smooth running of our W.I.

On Tuesday10th December we hold our Christmas social evening, this year a bring and share supper, with a Secret Santa gift exchange and musical entertainment by David Haines and the Burton Concert Band. Please come along for 7.30, wearing your bling and sparkle, and join in the fun! There is no whist drive this month.

The New Year seems a long way off but those attending our meeting on 14th January will hear Katie Shakespeare of The Shakespeare Hat Company explaining and demonstrating her millinery talents!

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Newton Solney C of E Infant School

Community Collective Worship is held on the first Thursday morning of the month at 9.15am in the school hall for parents, carers and local residents. The next two are on the 5th December and the 9th January. You are most welcome to join us in the school hall.

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Newton Solney Parish Council News

Parish Defibrillator: We are considering the purchase of a defibrillator for the village. To aid the decision we are looking for a number of volunteers who would act as responders. For more information see the Parish website and register your interest with a member of the Parish Council or the Clerk.

Bonfire Night: Thanks to Jeremy Winter and his team for organising the recent village bonfire and fireworks despite challenging weather conditions.

Green Recycling Bin: We are told that the new bin is helping to reduce overall costs by £450 per week, and it is anticipated that this figure will increase over the next few months. Please remember not to put plastic bags, window envelopes and tetrapaks in the green bin; most other plastics are welcome.

Next meeting: Friday 13th December at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

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Gardening Notes

Thank goodness that Christmas is in December; in the garden I find it the dreariest month of the year with short and often dull days.

December is certainly cheered up by the birds on our birdfeeders. Now is a good time to clean out any bird nest boxes. Put a little straw or a few wood shavings in the nest box and some birds may shelter overnight; this doesn't guarantee nesting later but may help. Last year we had a great tit who roosted every night and finally laid a huge clutch of eggs but unfortunately did not raise a brood successfully. Make sure the birds have a source of water; we fill the reservoir for the waterfall, and the birds, particularly the blackbirds, often bathe there in winter.

I love the scent of indoor hyacinths, but they often flop over in their pots. After some experimenting we tried tying round twigs from silver birch trees (or other twiggy trees) with fine string or strong cotton around the outside of the pots; this provides just enough support while still allowing room for the buds to open up unhindered. If you have a plant container to hold everything together, so much the better.

Winter is a good time to plant a tree or shrub as long the ground is not frozen. Bare-rooted trees and roses are available at this time of year and are typically half the price of pot grown varieties. They tend to establish better as their root systems are often larger and have been field grown.

One shrub that does shine out in December is Mahonia, there are many scented forms which are delightful, and can be kept to size by pruning after flowering.