Magazine Archive		Magazine Contacts	Church Contacts		Repton Church Home
(Personal contact links below have now been disabled)
The Parish Magazine Repton, Foremark, Milton, Ingleby, Newton Solney
June 2015

Cars 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 Raymond Percy Fisher The Big Lunch, Sunday 7th June Cream Teas and Gift Day at the Open Gardens, Saturday 13th June Church Picnic, Sunday 28th June Shell (for children aged 7+) Dates for your Diary Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Chanel Cinamon, Elliot Evan and Krystal Rose Smith Marriages Ruth Prince and Jonathan Whyman Samantha Haddon and Daniel Cassidy Katee-Lee Newbolt and Matthew Simon Bird Funerals and Burial of Ashes Reeves Michael Charlesworth Roger William Wetton Raymond Percy Fisher Obituaries Reeves Michael Charlesworth The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Services and Groups St Wystan's News Sunday Club St Mary's News St Mary's Church will be closed from 1st to 5th July Local Diary Event Details Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 3rd June Repton History Walks, Sundays 7th June, 5th July and 13th September Milton Open Gardens, Sunday 7th June Repton School Concert: Peter Moore, trombone, Wednesday 10th June Repton Open Gardens, Evening of Wine and Music, Friday 12th June Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 17th June Milton Lunch Club, Thursday 18th June Ladies Pamper Night, Friday 19th June Newton Solney School Summer Fair, Saturday 27th June Messy Church, Sunday 28th June Venetian Evening, Saturday 4th July The Great War Commemorated 100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . . Repton Village and History Repton Rags Repton Open Gardens, Friday 12th - Sunday 14th June Repton School Speech Day and Leavers' Ball, Saturday 27th June NGS Open Garden, Sunday 28th June Thank you! ~ Repton Village Party Repton Village Party Repton Village History Group launches new booklet Repton W.I. Repton Village Society Scouts Collection for Yard Sale on Saturday 16th August A Midsummer Evening Hash, Friday 19th June Facilities at Repton & District Royal British Legion Club Repton Parish Council Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton Village Hall Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Newton Solney C of E Infant School Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Tuesday Club Plant Sale, Saturday 6th June Annual Cricket Match & Sports Day, Sunday 30th August Newton Solney Pre-school Open Days Newton Solney Parish Council News South Derbyshire The Villager Bus Service Environment Matters Swifts in Repton? You and your Pet Hot Dogs! Neighbourhood Watch Gardening Notes

---

Cars

Cars, for the majority of us an absolute must have. "I couldn't survive without it", we often hear.

In our society cars are a necessary part of life, but they are also the bad cholesterol of our community. First, and most obvious to me as I sit looking out of my study window, is the continual line of cars running in both directions through the heart of our village. As we are all aware when there is a minor shunt in Willington, or when a supermarket delivery to the vicarage coincides with the school run, everything grinds to a halt, a sort of community coronary. And parking on the roads also clogs the arteries and restricts the flow. But when cars are moving, the effects are there too: noise and fumes pollute the air and our bodies; pedestrians can't cross the roads until a generous driver gives way; our community is cut in two.

The effects of the car go far deeper, and sadly it has done much damage to the fabric of communities. Before cars became affordable, children and mothers walking to and from the local school knew each other better. People taking the bus would wait, sit and chat with others. Having to use the local pubs meant you mixed with other locals. Shopping in the village meant the vulnerable could be kept an eye on while shops acted as hubs for news. Worshipping in the local churches, you were with others you shared life with. A vicar could go to the local school and talk to local children, but now fewer than fifty percent of the children at Repton Primary School are local. Community naturally sprang out of community.

At this time Repton faces development with the demand for many more houses. This in itself could be a good thing. Groups using the village hall, the churches, the schools, our voluntary organisations, local shops and businesses, all stand to benefit. While demands on local services would increase, more doctors and dentists could move into the area. Increasing the population with more housing will change the local community, but then, over the last few decades it has already changed beyond recognition. What we could do without are the cars that such development will bring - but come they will.

Unsurprisingly there are no quotes about cars from Jesus! But there are numerous sayings and many teachings about the importance of unity, of fellowship, of the importance of community, of people being there for one another, of being good neighbours, of showing generosity, compassion and caring, of allowing God's love to flow through our lives to touch the lives of others. It would be naïve to claim that cars are inherently evil. Their use can bring about much good, but we do need to lessen their more negative impact on our lives and communities. How we do that is a lifestyle choice, which is what Jesus asks of us all - to use all that we have, including our cars, for the good of others. Perhaps we all ought to commit to using our cars less and less.

---

Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

---

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

---

Altar Flowers (contact Frances Wimbush, 703180)

---

Brasses (contact Sue Parker, 702550)

---

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

---

The United Reformed Church

---

Raymond Percy Fisher

. . . who died on 6th May was an inspiration to all who knew him, interested in everyone he met, and always cheerful. Ray regularly attended the United Reformed Church and will be very sadly missed by his family and friends.

---

The Big Lunch, Sunday 7th June

Once again we are holding a Big Lunch on the first Sunday of June, and this year we will be raising funds for Tearfund:

Natalie is going to Bolivia on a summer placement for 10 weeks in the summer - from July to September - with Tearfund. She will work alongside volunteers from Bolivia, doing life-changing work and making a difference to the community. The money raised at the lunch will contribute to the programme and allow more young people to work overseas and join in the fight against poverty. Please come and join us.

---

Cream Teas and Gift Day at the Open Gardens, Saturday 13th June

Take time out from the gardens on display to relax and enjoy a delicious cream tea; if you would care to make a donation towards church funds, please take this opportunity!

---

Church Picnic, Sunday 28th June

After a short family service, we will travel to Rosliston Forestry Centre where we will enjoy our picnic lunch before going for a short walk together. Everyone welcome!

---

SHELL Group for young people aged 7+

. . . meets on Mondays from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. Activities this month include a walk, gardening, and making gifts for Father's Day. New members are always welcome, so come and join in the fun!

---

Dates for your Diary

Saturday 4th July at 3pm, Family Barbeque at 5 Monsom Lane

Lots of good food, a bouncy castle, children's games or just the chance to relax in the sunshine make this an unmissable event! Tickets are available from members, or telephone 701581.

Saturday 15 August, Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane

Donations of items to sell, large or small are needed. Proceeds for church funds.

---

Baptisms

Chanel Cinamon, Elliot Evan and Krystal Rose Smith of 58 Simcoe Leys, Chellaston, were baptised at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney on Sunday 10th May.

---

Marriages

Ruth Prince and Jonathan Whyman of 39, Highgrove Close, Stretton, were married at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, on Saturday 25th April.

Samantha Haddon and Daniel Cassidy of Askew Grove, Repton, were married at St Wystan's Church on Saturday 2nd May.

Katee-Lee Newbolt and Matthew Simon Bird of 35 Radbourne Street, Derby, were married at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on Saturday 16th May.

---

Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Reeves Michael Charlesworth of Monsom Lane, Repton, died on Sunday 19th April aged 86. A private funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 28th April was followed by cremation. There will be a memorial service on Saturday 6th June in Repton School Chapel.

Roger William Wetton of Brook End, Repton, died on Thursday 23rd April aged 71. A funeral service at Bretby on Friday 8th May was followed by cremation. Roger had retired at Christmas from his job at Repton Post Office, where he worked after taking early retirement from Rolls Royce.

Raymond Percy Fisher, of Brook House, Repton, died on Wednesday 6th May aged 96. His funeral service at the United Reformed Church on 15th May was followed by cremation at Bretby.

---

Obituaries

Reeves Michael Charlesworth
19th April 2015

Michael Charlesworth came to Repton School in 1941 as the youngest boy in the school - his parents had sent him as early as possible to escape the Sheffield air-raids - and left in 1947 as the oldest. Head of House, Head Prefect, National Service in the RASC, and thence, in 1949, to Brasenose College, Oxford, as an Exhibitioner to read Law on a two-year war-shortened degree course. Soon after arriving he decided to teach, so stayed on for two more years to read English, though most of his time was spent acting and discovering the joys of village cricket.

A year after returning to Repton he became Head of English and Director of Drama. He was a teacher of skill, zest and integrity, with a deep knowledge and love of literature, and an enthusiasm that was instantly communicated to his pupils.

After 15 years of running the English, he was appointed Housemaster of the Hall, at that time the biggest boys' boarding house in the country with some 120 boys. Despite its size, he had time for everybody. Nothing was too much trouble, individual guidance was effected with a light and human touch, and he coped with everything, showing little sign of strain, with an affectionate sense of humour, decency and secure moral values.

When he was only 15 Mike produced Journey's End, and so began a life-long love of the theatre, as writer, actor, producer and director. At Oxford, OUDS and the ETC provided him with rich opportunities, and he not only played in this country but Leontes in Istanbul, Malvolio in San José, California, and, most memorably, Canon Chasuble in Rome, where he refused to remove his costume during the day, wandering the precincts of St Peter's and the Vatican to dispense indulgences.

The list of his productions, more than 50, reads like the programme of the National Theatre: Lear, Macbeth, Hamlet, Love's Labours Lost, Much Ado, Taming of the Shrew, Comedy of Errors, Beaux Stratagem, Love for Love, Way of the World, The Magistrate, Antigone, Galileo, The Crucible, The Lady's not for Burning, The Strong are Lonely, Hotel Paradise, The Critic and a host of others. Michael always started with the lines and only when the voice was master of the words did he move on to gesture, movement, grouping; intensity and emotion flowed naturally from understanding of the text. And during this time, he played many of the great parts himself at the Derby Playhouse as well as becoming Artistic Director of the Pendley Open Air Shakespeare Festival, directing and acting in productions there every summer. Generations of Reptonians will also remember his marvellous quadrennial productions of 'Sir John Port's Pedants', a staff revue that scurrilously demolished every Repton sacred cow.

When, after 15 years, he left The Hall, Mike took a year off, directing plays in Australia, adjudicating at the Hong Kong Festival with over 52,000 entrants, directing at Episcopal Academy, Philadelphia, and doing a term of teaching at The Dragon School in Oxford. His energy left one breathless.

Mike loved cricket, particularly the village variety. For 32 years he ran annual BNC Hornets tours playing village teams around Oxford with sides including international cricketers such as Colin Cowdrey and John Fellowes-Smith. His return to Repton I 1953 coincided with the formation of the Repton Vagabonds, a team founded to give boys and members of staff an opportunity to play cricket in a relaxed atmosphere against Derbyshire and Staffordshire villages. He ran it with characteristic verve for over 25 years until the cracking of his Achilles tendon forced him to give it up.

In retirement, Mike continued to live in Repton; he loved the village, and the talks he gave to local groups were greatly appreciated.

Mike was a giant in reputation, and in every other way, with a gargantuan appetite for food and drink. He was the most congenial spirit and a towering figure in the Repton Common Room, a teacher of genius, intellectual, scholar, actor, bon vivant, colleague, and friend.

---

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 contact us.

---

Repton Benefice

There is no service of Prayer for Christian Healing at St Wystan's Church in June.

Intercessory Prayer for Healing meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 1st June.

The Bible Study Group studying the Acts of the Apostles meets once this month, at 7.30 pm on Thursdays 4th June at 28 The Pastures. Please see Stephen Longden if you are interested in joining.

---

St Wystan's News

Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds 9.45 am at St Wystan's Church - EVERY Sunday EXCEPT the 1st Sunday of the month when we all 'Worship Together' Join us for Bible stories, craft & games. All are most welcome! Ring Jane Griffiths for more details: 01283 559390

---

St Mary's News

St Mary's Church will be closed from 1st to 5th July

Once again, this year, the Ordinands are to hold their Petertide Retreat at Newton Solney. As a result, St Mary's Church will be closed to visitors from Wednesday 1st July until the Parish Communion Service at 10 am on Sunday 5th July.

---

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 3rd June 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!

Sundays 7th June, 5th July and 13th September Repton History Walks Leave St Wystan's Church at 2 pm Tea & cake afterwards in Repton Village Hall £6. Booking essential Phone 01283 704034 / 702702 or .

Milton Open Gardens Sunday 7th June, 1 to 6 pm Enjoy a diverse selection of gardens from small cottage gardens to larger landscapes Plants for sale. Tea and home-made cakes in the Village Hall Free parking No long walks! Sorry, no dogs Entry £4 per person, children under 16 free. For more info contact Carl on 07527 700308 or via miltonmatters.org.uk

Repton School Concerts Society Peter Moore, trombone Wednesday 10th June at 7.45 in the Robert Beldam Hall In 2008, at the age of 12, Peter Moore became the youngest ever winner of the BBC Young Musician Competition. Following his Wigmore Hall debut in 2008, Peter has given recitals at venues and festivals throughout the UK. His debut CD recording of the Gregson Trombone Concerto with the BBC Concert Orchestra was released in 2010 to critical acclaim, and a recording with the Australian Brass Group 'Brass FX' will be released shortly. He is also in demand as an orchestral player and has been guest principal with the Philharmonia, Hallé and Opera North Orchestras. He has just been appointed co-principal of the London Symphony Orchestra. Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). For further information or tickets contact 56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR. 01283 702550.

Repton Open Gardens An Evening of Wine and Music Friday 12th June at 6.30 pm in St Wystan's Church Sparkling wine on arrival followed a short concert by pupils of Foremarke Hall under the direction of Susan Bloor; afterwards, canapés will be served and wine will be available to purchase. Tickets at £10 include free entry to the gardens - children free from Sue Parker, 702550, or Jan Roberts, 702159.

Books, Browse and Coffee Wednesday 17th June, 11 am in St Wystan's Church and every 3rd Wednesday in the month Also at the first Wednesday 'Soup, Cheese and Chat' - July onwards Join us for coffee, a chat, and a chance to swap or buy books Coffee and biscuits £1.50 with free refills Books - swaps free, otherwise 50p

Milton Lunch Club Thursday 18th June, 12.30 pm in Milton Village Hall.   £5. Ham salad and new potatoes with Eton mess! Contact Lynn, 704540, Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436 Everyone welcome wherever you live! If you need transport, let us know

Ladies Pamper Night Friday 19th June, Repton Village Hall at 7.30 pm Be pampered with a glass of bubbly a selection of therapies and a choice of lovely things to buy Tickets £8 including a goody bag from Mulberry Beauty Salon or The Bridge Centre or contact In aid of The Repton Village Hall Appeal

Friends of Newton Solney School (FoNSS) invite you to Newton Solney School Summer Fair Saturday 27th June, 12 - 2.30 pm An afternoon of fun in the school grounds with craft stalls, face painting, raffle, refreshments and lots more You are all very welcome to join us

Messy Church Fun activities,craft and games,celebration and Sunday tea for children and adults, anyone, any age St Wystan's Church, Sunday 28th June, 4 to 5.30 pm To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or . Everyone is welcome!

Derby Bach Choir conducted by Richard Roddis Organ: Tom Corfield Venetian Evening With Vivaldi's Gloria (RV589) and music by other Venetian composers including Lotti – Monteverdi – Finetti – A Gabrieli St Wystan's Church, Saturday 4th July at 7.30 pm Tickets £15 to include a finger buffet and wine from Foulds Music Shop, 01332 344862, or derbybachchoir.com

Wine Tasting Evening Saturday 18 July at 7.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall A tutored wine tasting with Denise & Steve Parker A selection of six wines with cheeses and biscuits Tickets £12.50 : booking essential : restricted numbers Contact Annie Topliss, 01283 703411 Organised by Newton Solney W.I. in aid of the village hall appeal fund.

The Great War Commemorated

100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . .

Dear Friends

Some of us, no doubt, have read the remarkable letter addressed by the Archbishop to the Prime Minister. It was one full of patriotism and confidence. For Churchmen it should be a great lead in that calmness and sobriety of mind which, above everything else, are needed at this time. We are going to win the war, but it will take a longer time than we expected. Meanwhile, we welcome the great National Government just formed, and we will all of us give it the fullest confidence and unswerving support and obedience.

In the village our list of men serving is growing. One or two instances in the past month of those volunteering have been most patriotic rand encouraging. Our prayers are going up daily in Church for the Divine protection on the men actually at the front and for those preparing for the great ordeal.

On Diocesan Sunday, we had the great advantage of a noble and inspiring sermon from Canon Scott Moncrieff on the 'New England' after the war, but the collection afterwards was distinctly disappointing. Our quota is but £12, yet up till now we have not come anywhere near to it. I wonder if people ever think that they have not to pay one farthing to the support of the Vicar, and that, if justice were done, I should be paid about four times the amount of the value of this living. At present I am existing on the charity of the Anglo-Saxons. [N.B. - Joke here intended.] . . . I know if I hired a man to come over and preach on such a subject as 'How I went to Potsdam and pulled the German Emperor's nose', we should have the Church packed. But the Gospel and the Catholic Faith are not so attractive; nevertheless, they wear better.

Two of our Belgian guests (M. and Mdme Gerard) have departed for Birmingham, where he has found work. The Belgian Committee, at their last meeting, determined to continue the collections for the refugees' support on the ground that, although sufficient funds were in hand for their maintenance now, yet in the event of their returning to Belgium it would be a gracious act on the part of the village to let them have funds to set them up again in their country where they have lost all.

---

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 Fridays 5th and 19th June 6.30 to 8 pm at the Den      £1 a head More info from Julie Groom, 0797 4998852 or . Come along and have fun!

Repton Rags

You will notice that our June dates have changed. We have shifted them around to avoid clashes later in the summer with other events in the village.

On the 19th June we have a speaker from the RNLI coming to talk about beach safety. They do not charge for their time for educational visits, so we would like to give the RNLI a donation if possible. We will have a tub at RAGS for our coming meetings; if you have a bit of spare change please put it in the tub; it would be great to hand over a gift on the night.

In July our dates are the 3rd and 17th.

We would like to run sessions throughout the summer, but for that we will need some parent help. On the door at RAGS will be a date list. Please have a look and sign up against a date you can help with. Thank you to all of you who have helped out over the last few months when we needed you at short notice.

On 9th May Repton hosted the annual village sports games, with Willington and Barrow on Trent also taking part. I am very proud to say that Repton took the trophy home; having come second in the two previous years, this time it was our turn for victory. Well done to Connor, William, Ruby, Flynn, Adam, Sian, Dan, Charlie, Ellie and Tom. And a massive 'thank you' to Liz Ryalls for running the kitchen for us.

Last month we also did a wonderful bat watch at Broomhills playing field with Jill from Derbyshire Wildlife. We used detectors to listen for them, and even on such a cold and windy evening we heard some soprano pipistrelles. Thank you to Jill for her time and endless knowledge.

---

Repton Open Gardens, Friday 12th - Sunday 14th June

An Evening of Wine and Music Friday at 6.30 pm in St Wystan's Church

This occasion has become a firm favourite. Sparkling wine on arrival will be followed a short concert of music by pupils of Foremarke Hall under the direction of Susan Bloor; afterwards, canapés will be served and wine will be available to purchase. It is always very enjoyable with the musicians setting a superb standard. For tickets at £10 - which includes free entry to the gardens - children free, contact Sue Parker, 702550, Wendy Longden, 703259, or Jan Roberts, 702159.

The Gardens

On the Saturday and Sunday between 2 and 6 pm, you can visit sixteen gardens. They include an astonishing five current 'Yellow Book' gardens, as well as Repton Memorial Arboretum and four which were not open last year. Do note, however, that one of the gardens will only be open on the Sunday; if you want to see them all over the two days, you will need to plan your route. Programmes, which act as entry tickets, will be on sale in the village beforehand, as well as at the church lychgate and in the gardens on the day; adults £5 each, children free.

St Wystan's Church and Children's Trail

The bells will ring, the church will be open throughout, and a children's trail will help you discover this beautiful and historic place of worship. There are clues to find and riddles to solve as you unravel its story.

Scarecrow Trail and Competition

With prizes for the most entertaining or inventive scarecrows, there will be plenty to entertain you. If you have not yet entered, there is still time - if you are very quick; entry forms are in the Post Office or contact Jan Roberts on 702159.

Childrens' Snail Trail

We hope that children will enjoy following the trail in gardens showing the snail symbol; be sure to collect a competition entry form together with your Open Gardens programme. When it is completed, take it to the village hall and exchange it for a lucky dip prize.

Refreshments

On both afternoons, teas will be served in the village hall from 2.30 to 5.30 pm. The U.R.C. will serve cream teas in the schoolroom from 3 to 5 pm on Saturday only. Stalls Spread over the gardens, there will be a number of stalls, including plant stalls, a tombola, book , home produce and craft stalls. Donations for these will be gratefully received, preferably beforehand. (Plants and tombola, Jan Roberts, 702159; books, David Roberts, 702159; craftwork and home produce such as jams, biscuits, and sweets, Carol Lloyd, 702410.) Prize Draw

Tickets for the prize draw will be on sale in the village beforehand and over the weekend; the draw will take place on Saturday 20th June.

Your support is really important

The Open Gardens weekend is a major fund-raising event for St Wystan's Church. The money raised goes entirely towards the cost of keeping the church open and available for everyone - more than £60,000 a year. We depend on you to make it a real success.

---

Repton School Speech Day and Leavers' Ball

The School will be holding its annual Speech Day on Saturday 27th June and, as in recent years, the day will conclude with a ball for our Upper Sixth pupils and their parents in a marquee on the Paddock, ending at 1am.

This is a special occasion for the school community and especially the leavers. We very much hope that it will not create any inconvenience to other village residents, but please accept our sincere apologies if any disturbance is caused.

---

NGS Open Garden
Jan and David Roberts, 37 High Street Sunday 28th June, 2 - 5.30 pm

Repton Brook meanders through this garden of over an acre of herbaceous, shrubs, vegetables and woodland. If you are a regular visitor you will notice changes this year with a new woodland garden and walk. Admission is £3 in aid of the National Gardens Scheme, with accompanying children free. There are plants for sale and teas in aid of church funds.

---

Thank you! Repton Village Party

I was asked before the party: 'What happens if it rains?' The answer: 'We're British. We get wet!' . . . and we did! . . . and you all came along!

With all the regular activities and entertainment, there was no shortage of things to do, though I suspect, given the chilly weather, the teas were even more popular than usual!

Thank you to everyone who supported and contributed to the event in so many ways. The Village Party relies totally on volunteers. Most of us in Repton lead very busy lives, many working a distance away. It is a rare treat to have the opportunity to join forces and just enjoy being a community. This is the aspect of the Village Party that matters to me most, and I would love it if the friendships and networks forged for this occasion could become a way of life.

We are already looking forward to 2017. If you enjoyed the Party this year and would like to contribute to the next in any way, however small, please do let me know. I would be delighted to hear from you.

---

Repton Village Party

Tents, bunting and hundreds of balloons once more transformed the Den and Mitre field into a scene of lively fun, as swarms of children, young and old, enjoyed a traditional village party. The turnout was excellent, encouraged no doubt by the children's posters, but for once the weather refused to play ball - well, it was Bank Holiday Saturday!

The scene was set at the Arch as Emily, our Pied Piper, led the parade through the village and up to the Mitre Field, where we were treated to a wealth of musical talent from local children throughout the afternoon. Children listened to stories, played table-top games, decorated biscuits, painted, made bracelets, joined the campfire where Scouts were making dampers, and had their faces painted. Older children hunted treasure, tried their hand at the coconut shy, scrambled up and down the climbing wall and polished up ball skills. There were squeals of apprehension from the greasy pole, and the butchers beat the drinkers in the tug-of-war.

A real fire engine caused great excitement, with children queuing to ride in the cab, and the steam train too evoked great interest in both young and old. The Punch & Judy was another magnet; the crocodile, policeman, battered baby, a string of sausages - they extracted just the same responses as they have always done.

Elsewhere, Anglo-Saxon monks talked about food and clothing, demonstrated the art of inscription on vellum, and gave a picture of Repton before the Vikings.

Most adults preferred more sedate pastimes, preferably under cover, making bracelets with their children, examining the displays and historical photographs of the village, taking part in the quiz, buying raffle tickets, and guessing the weight of a beautiful cake.

As befits a May Bank Holiday weekend, the maypole took pride of place. Teams from St Wystan's and Repton Primary Schools acquitted themselves brilliantly, and the Tai Chi display, a first for the Village Party, proved very popular.

There was a queue for ice creams, but on a chilly afternoon, a rather longer one for pork baps from the Hog Roast run by Neil Redshaw. Home made tea and cakes, supplied and served in the Den by the W.I., were particularly popular, and in between, there was plenty of custom at the sweet stall.

All credit to Frances Wimbush, the originator of the Village Party and its driving force. This was the fifth she has organised; the first was in 2007. Thank you too to her energetic team and to those village organisations and local businesses which gave their support in so many ways. Despite the rain later in the day, it was a very happy afternoon with something for everyone, an afternoon that showed once again that the best fun is still that which you make yourself and enjoy with your friends.

Poster Competition

Thank you to the staff and children of Repton Primary, St Wystan's and Foremarke Hall Schools for taking part in the poster competition. Your entries were all great.

Congratulations to the following who were selected for special mention:
Bronwen Payne and Maisie Trueman from Repton Primary; Kate McKay and Alice Proudler from St Wystan's; Daisy Wong and Ehmin Sandhu from Foremarke Hall.

Raffle and Programme Prize Winners
Lucky Programme	C Horridge		Bulls Head Voucher	Selina Whittle
Mount Pleasant Voucher	Mr Sanders		The Boot Voucher	Erin Harris
Bottle of Malt Whisky	Colin Clark		Mulberry Voucher	Sarah Preston
Repton School Swim Pass	Tony Vandome		Candle Box	Tom Hyde
Gibson's Technology item	J Fisher		Cadbury hamper	Emily Davidson
National Forest Voucher	A Dammers		Wine (The Red Lion)	V Mather
Bridge Centre Voucher	Maureen Boden		Repton Spoon	Jill Hurst
Champagne Draw	Sue Kitchener

---

New booklet launched ~ Repton Village History Group

Catherine Cartwright talked to us in April about the Gresley Pioneers, who were early Mormons. Her research into her husband's family found that Mormonism was surprisingly strong in Church Gresley in the 1800s. There was a Mormon chapel in Coppice Side, the main street at that time with houses, shops and businesses on both sides. Whole families converted to the religious sect which, in times when life for many was hard and uncertain, offered the promise of better things. This family basis led to a very stable Mormon community. Mormons were often unpopular but in Church Gresley they were certainly tolerated.

To avoid confrontation in New York, Joseph Smith's successor, Brigham Young, had set out to find a site for a Mormon settlement and finally chosen Salt Lake in Utah. Catherine described the trip that the Cartwright family would have endured when they, like many others, made their way to join the other 'Saints'. After a dangerous voyage to New York they walked overland all the way to Utah, well over 2,000 miles, pulling their possessions in hand carts. Catherine showed photographs of the wheel ruts cut into the rock of the mountain passes and revealed that the Cartwrights had arrived in winter with temperatures well below zero. They were potters and set up as such when they arrived. Catherine had even managed to pinpoint the very house where they lived.

On Tuesday 16th June there will be a chance to see a new display of photographs of the carvings recently found high in the roof of St Wystan's Church, as well as the displays from the Staffordshire Hoard exhibition and of the soldiers who died in WWI, together with the usual selection of documents from the archive. 7.30 pm in Repton village hall. All are welcome; visitors £3, members £2 including tea and biscuits.

Our new publication, 'A Stroll through Repton of Yesteryear', is available from Repton Post Office, Waterstones in Burton, our website, our monthly meetings and committee members. It costs £4.

---

Repton W.I.

At our May meeting, members and visitors enjoyed a buffet supper with quiche, salads and hot puddings served by the committee and tea hostesses, after first discussing the resolution for the annual meeting to be held in the Royal Albert Hall this month. This concerns the assessment of need in long term care, and asks the government to remove the distinction between nursing and personal care in order to advance health and well-being. All members present voted in favour, and Ann as our delegate was asked to take this vote to the meeting.

The History Walks, with tea and cakes organised by the History Group and W.I., are going well, and refreshments at the Village Party were very popular. A Mulberry lunch is organised for 18th June, and a garden visit will take place on the 30th.

At this month's meeting on Tuesday 9th June - 7.15 pm at Repton village hall - we will learn more about the production of Long Clawson cheeses. Visitors and new members are always welcome.

---

Repton Village Society

Ernest Henry 'Chinese' Wilson was the subject of Simon Gulliver's talk to the Society in May. This extraordinary man was born in 1876, the eldest of seven children, his father a signalman on the Great Western railway. Ernest was an apprentice at Hewitt's nursery in Solihull before moving to Birmingham Botanical Gardens as a gardener in 1892. He studied botany at Birmingham Technical College and joined the staff at Kew in 1897. When the famous nursery of James Veitch asked the Director of Kew to recommend a botanical collector to be sent to China, he recommended Wilson. Wilson left in 1899 and returned in 1902. His second trip for Veitch lasted from 1903 to 1906. His third and fourth trips were sponsored by Charles Sargent, Director of the Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University in Boston. In 1914 Wilson explored Japan, and between 1917 and 1922 he explored Korea, Taiwan and gardens around the world. On his travels he collected thousands of plant specimens (cuttings and seeds) and took thousands of photographs. Many of the plants he discovered are in our gardens to-day. After his last expedition he returned to Boston, and when Sargent died in 1927, Wilson took over as keeper of the Arnold Arboretum. He died in a car accident in 1930.

Thursday 4th June: 'Recent Archaeological Projects in the Peak District National Park' with Ken Smith, Cultural Heritage Manager.

Saturday 20th June: Coach trip to Arley Hall Garden Festival

Arley Hall, near Northwich, is the Jacobean home of Lord and Lady Ashbrook. In the grounds there will be many stalls selling plants, horticultural accessories, crafts and food, as well as an exhibition of classic cars and a large floral marquee. Lord Ashbrook and the head gardener will conduct guided tours of the renowned gardens. The town band will be performing in the bandstand, and a jazz band will be wandering amongst the stalls. The Hall will be open and there is a restaurant.

The coach leaves the church at 8.30 am and returns at 3 pm arriving back in Repton at about 5.30. The cost of £21 for members, £23 for visitors, includes entry to the Hall.

I visited this event last year and it really was a great day out, not too crowded and with a countryside atmosphere, even if you aren't a gardener.

---

Scouts

Hooray for May and lots of outdoor activity for Scouts!

We had a good turnout for the Village Party, where lots of bread twists were made on the fire, and a lovely evening for our bike ride from Calke, which went very well until one of our Scouts fell off in the nettles.

In June we will be canoeing and geo-caching. We are also planning to raise money for Water Aid. This is the final part of their Global Challenge badge, so the Scouts will be sleeping rough; please look out for them with their sponsorship forms.

If you would like more information about Scouts, please contact Mike Knowles on 07989 990119 or

---

Moving? Clearing out? Yard Sale

We are now taking anything saleable - including bric-a-brac, linens and small furniture - for our next charity sale on Saturday 16th August. All proceeds will go to Repton Royal British Legion, Repton United Reformed Church, and the Nightingale Macmillan Unit at the Royal Derby Hospital, which treats people with a life-limiting illness.

For further information or to arrange collection, call Sue Banks on 701726.

---

A Midsummer Evening Hash ~ Repton Hash House Harriers

Hashing is a great way to enjoy running. Similar to a paper chase, two 'hares' with five minutes' start lay a flour trail that the pack has to chase. Using dead ends and multiple paths, the hares are able to keep one step ahead, and the faster runners are kept from leaving the slower ones behind; the pack hasn't managed to catch both hares yet!

It's free to join; if you're interested, just come along! This is as much a social as a running group; mostly we set off at midday from The Bulls Head and go back there afterwards for a well deserved drink.

To celebrate midsummer, we have a special Evening Hash on Friday 19th June starting at the Bulls Head at 7 pm. Find us on Facebook or feel free to contact David on 07891 391351. On On!

---

Upgrading Facilities at Repton & District Royal British Legion Club

We are currently raising money to install a small kitchen and upgrade both the existing toilets, including the provision of disabled facilities. We have already raised almost £3,000 but still have some way to go.

To assist in fundraising we are collecting items suitable for selling at a car boot, and also items of scrap metal such as copper, brass and lead, which we are able to recycle. If you are clearing out unwanted items and can donate any of the above, please contact Mike Wilks, the Club Secretary, on either 01283 702540 or 07704 585653 to arrange collection. No items are too small, but we can't take large redundant appliances such as freezers and washing machines.

---

Repton Parish Council

New Chairman: At the Annual General Meeting following last month's Council elections Barbara McArdle was elected Chairman of Repton Parish Council. Barbara has been involved with the Council for many years and brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. The Councillors wish her well in the year ahead. Thanks were also expressed for the hard work and dedication of the outgoing Chairman, John Shortt. The Parish Council had previously decided that the role of Chairman, should henceforth, be rotated annually between the Councillors.

Parish Councillor Vacancies: There are a number of vacancies on the Parish Council allowing local residents to be co-opted as Councillors.

To be eligible candidates must be over 18, on the electoral register; and have lived or worked as a British / Irish / Commonwealth / European citizen or owned property in Repton or Milton for the last 12 months. If you are interested, please forward your full details to the office, together with reasons why you wish to become a Councillor. If you have any queries, please contact the Clerk - see below. Full training and support will be offered to new Councillors.

July Meeting: Note that the July meeting of the Parish Council will now take place on Monday 20th July, and not the usual second Monday of the month.

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

Parish Council Office, 40 High Street, t: 01283 701309, reptoncouncil@btinternet.com

---

Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Village Hall

A Plant Swap in May saw the village hall full of plants being swapped and sold, including a selection of colourful bedding plants and hanging baskets. Gardeners chatted over coffee and biscuits, and over £525 was raised for village hall funds. Many thanks to all who supported or helped on the day.

For the Annual Spring Walk, walkers met outside the village hall on a fine but rather chilly morning. A gentle walk led by Edward was followed by drinks in the Swan and pork baps and trifle in the village hall. A short nature quiz devised by Edward rounded off a very enjoyable event. Many thanks to the ladies who prepared lunch for everyone, and to Edward for leading the walk.

Milton's next big event is our Open Gardens on Sunday 7th June. There are new gardens to view this year, no long walks between gardens, and scarecrows to spot along the way. The listed phone box will also be decorated for the occasion. Admission is £4 for adults and parking is free. Tea and cakes will be available in the village hall, and plants will be available for sale. Milton extends its customary warm welcome to both new and regular visitors.

To view or hire Milton village hall, , or contact Polly Faulkner on 01283 703436.

---

Milton W.I.

In May, members and friends went to The Century Theatre at Snibston for a behind the scenes tour, buffet tea and a showing of the film 'The Theory of Everything'.

The resolution before our May meeting was 'Failing to care - assessment of need in long term care'. Following discussion, members voted and the results were sent to the Federation HQ. We rounded off the evening with delicious refreshments and time to catch up with friends.

This month, Milton W.I. ladies will be serving homemade cakes and beverages in Milton village hall for Milton Open Gardens.

Next meeting: Wednesday 17th June, 7.30 pm in Milton Village Hall: Ruth Ballington will talk about organ donation. Visitors are very welcome.

---

Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E Infant School

Community Collective Worship for parents, carers and local residents is held on the first Thursday of the month at 9.15 am. You will be most welcome to join us in the school hall on 4th June. The last date this term will be the 2nd July.

Coffee & the Community, Friday 26th June, 9 - 10 am in the school hall

Do come along for coffee and chat to a coffee morning organised by June Scott and members of St Mary's Church. School families and all local residents are very welcome.

Summer Fair, Saturday 27th June, 12 to 2.30 pm

Please come and join us in the school grounds for our Summer Fair, organised by the Friends of Newton Solney School (FoNSS). You will all be very welcome.

---

Newton Solney W.I.

The May meeting was busy! Members discussed the 2015 W.I. Resolution regarding nursing and personal care assessments very thoroughly, deciding not to support it. There followed a very interesting and relevant 'Well Woman' talk by Dr. Farrow of Willington Surgery. This year's craft competition was judged by Jane Turpin and won by Angela Wilshire for her interpretation of an English country garden in a cup or wine glass.

On Saturday 6th June from 10 am to 12, the Horticultural Society is holding a fund-raising event for the village hall. NSWI is supporting it by running a cake stall.

Our next meeting, Tuesday 9th June at 7.30 in the village hall, will include a talk by Lynne Tann-Watson, 'An Introduction to Herbs.' Flowers will be arranged by Joan Buchanan and tea hostesses will be Jackie Bidder and Jean Burns.

Please see above for details of our Wine Tasting Evening on Saturday 18th July; we would love to see as many villagers as possible supporting this fun event in aid of village hall funds. For any enquiries, please ring Annie Topliss on 01283 703411.

---

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

Our last visit to Tamworth was well attended with some people visiting the castle and town centre whilst others enjoyed retail therapy at Ventura Park.

In May Jolyon MacLaine gave an excellent talk on his time in the RAF, from his first flying courses in Yorkshire through to flying helicopters. This took him to various areas of conflict, and then on to training pilots for rescue operations.

Tuesday 2nd June: 2.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall

After a business meeting, our speaker, Rod Pearson's topic will be 'The Lever Brothers and Port Sunlight'.

Tuesday 16th June: A trip to Melton Mowbray

We leave the Unicorn Inn in Newton at 9.30 am and return by about 3 pm. Cost £10.

On 21st July we are planning a full day out to Jodrell Bank. In order to cover the cost of the coach, we invite anyone interested to join us. We will leave the Unicorn Inn in Newton at 9.15 am and return between 5 and 6 pm. Cost £20, which includes the entry fee of £5.

If you would like more information about any of these activities, please contact our secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520. Note that on our trips out, we also pick people up in Repton and Willington.

---

Plant Sale, Saturday 6th June, 10 am - 12 noon

A reminder that Newton Solney Horticultural Section is holding a Plant Sale in Newton Solney Village Hall. As well as a wonderful variety of plants, there will be a book stall, a cake stall run by the Women's Institute, refreshments and a raffle.

---

Annual Cricket Match & Sports Day
Newton Solney Sports Club, Sunday 30th August

We are setting the date a day earlier this year, on the Sunday, so that if it rains as it did last year, we still have Monday to fall back on.

The day will follow a similar format to previous years with a series of children's sports activities, entertainment and the inter-pub cricket match. There are also plans for a 5k cross-country race. Keep your eye on the newsletter, flyers and notice boards for further information in June.

At the moment we are looking for people who would like to help on the day.

---

Newton Solney Pre-school Open Days

Newton Solney Pre-school, which is situated on Trent Lane adjacent to Newton Solney Infants School, takes children aged from 2 years 6 months to 5. Last inspected by Ofsted in March 2012, it was judged to be outstanding in all respects: "Overall the quality of the provision is outstanding. Children thrive and make significant developments in their progress within this inspirational and highly effective setting."

This month the school is holding three open days:
Thursday 4th June from 9.30 to 11.30 am
Wednesday 17th June from 1 to 2.30 pm
Tuesday 23rd June from 1 to 2.30 pm.

For more information. contact Gill Williamson, 07788 423 171, or visit the school's website, newtonsolneypreschool.co.uk.

---

Newton Solney Parish Council News

Proposed Gravel Extraction: The Parish Council is inviting Cemex to come and give a presentation regarding the proposed gravel extraction by Newton Solney. The Council has a number of concerns including noise, additional traffic and the effect on the local environment. Once a date has been confirmed, details will be published around the village and on the village website. It is hoped that as many parishioners as possible will attend.

Village Website: The website is regularly updated with information about parish meetings, planning applications and village activities. If there is any other relevant information you would like to see published, please contact Ron Parker on 07863 359129.

Raft Race: This will take place on Saturday 13th June. Please come down to the river and support what is always a fun occasion.

Next Meeting: Friday 12th June at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

---

South Derbyshire

The Villager Bus Service

My name is Thomas Ephgrave and I am the Derbyshire Youth Councillor for John Port School. As Youth Councillor it is my job to analyse and tackle local issues to improve the lives of young people.

One issue that has arisen recently is the Villager bus service. This is a vital connection between local villages, but many feel that it could be greatly improved in order to connect all the villages and to run at more convenient times. I have put together a survey on the web (link bit.ly/VillagerBus) to assess the views of both young people and the wider community. If you use the service I would love it if you could spend just five minutes to fill it out. Thanks for your support!

---

Environment Matters

Swifts in Repton?

Have you seen swifts around Repton? The arrival of these summer migrants in early May is a welcome sign that summer is just around the corner. Watching them scythe through the air and listening to their distinctive screams on a warm sunny evening is one of nature's delights.

Swifts are supreme aerialists. In comparison to swallows and house martins, they are all black and have long scimitar wings. They feed, drink, mate and sleep on the wing, only landing to breed under the eaves, tiles or sometimes in the loft space of our houses - though they make no mess and cause no damage. However swifts are in trouble and we are losing them fast!

You can help

This year we aim to survey and monitor the number of swifts in Repton and the surrounding area through the Derbyshire Swift Project, which is run jointly by the Derbyshire Ornithological Society and the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. The project also helps to conserve the birds by offering advice and support to householders, local groups and interested members of the public.

If you think you may have swifts nesting in your house or know of any nests, please contact us at swifts@derbyshirewt.co.uk. And if you enjoy watching the swifts, have some spare time, would like to find out more and possibly get involved, then please get in touch - the more the merrier!

---

You and your Pet

Hot Dogs!

In the last few years there have been several stories in the press about dogs sadly dying after being left in hot cars over the summer. Unfortunately it is something that we vets come across all too often. Some people believe that it is enough to leave a window open. Sadly it isn't: in the height of summer, with little air movement, the car just gets hotter and hotter. And it's not just cars that can be a problem; dogs left in caravans can also overheat on a warm summer's day, and when the sun is at its hottest some dogs can overheat from a walk or just lying in the sun.

Dogs and cats do not sweat; their main cooling mechanism is panting and evaporative heat loss. Air from the lungs passes over the tongue and dissipates heat into the atmosphere. Short nose dog breeds such as pugs, boxers, bulldogs and mastiffs (also known as brachycephalic breeds) are more prone to heatstroke because airflow is often reduced due to narrowing of the trachea and nostrils, a more constricted nasal cavity and an overly long soft palate. On hot days these dogs should only do minimal exercise.

Heatstroke is sadly all too often fatal. If you are at all concerned that your pets are suffering, you must act immediately. Throw a cold, wet towel over them and get them straight to the vet. The best advice is to keep them out of the mid-day heat; whatever you do, don't leave them in a car or caravan.

More tips for the summer months: If you have a white cat, put sun cream on its ears and nose; these pale, un-pigmented parts are very susceptible to skin cancer; always leave plenty of water down for all pets, and get a fly repellent for your rabbits' bottoms!

Now let's hope for some sunshine!

---

Neighbourhood Watch

You were warned! At least five sheds were broken into in Repton during May. These were not the only burglaries: five laptops were stolen from a school boarding house. Beef up your security! Never deal with anyone who cold calls by telephone or at the door, and never provide personal information or bank details to cold callers. Yet people still do it!

Mercia Safer Neighbourhood Team: PC Gez Collins has returned to the area. He is based in Swadlincote, and is assisted by PC Victoria Centro and PCSO Karen Coldicott who are based in Melbourne. Contact them through the police website - search for Derbyshire Police - or call 101.

NWatch Info: If you would like to keep in touch, please send me an email.

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.

---

Gardening Notes

Feeding Plants

Recently we visited a Nottinghamshire garden where the trilliums were the size of dinner plates; the owner was very keen to share her tips, which were to feed with pelleted chicken manure in spring and to mulch with leaf mould in the autumn - very simple and certainly very effective for her.

Feeding plants can be confusing because there is so much choice, and we are lured into buying lots of different food products for different plants. It isn't necessary! The nutrients that a plant requires are determined by its nature, the soil and the time of year. If a general fertilizer has a fairly even balance and contains all the plant nutrients including trace elements, the plant will take up from the soil what it needs. It is much cheaper, easier and less time consuming to buy a large bag of a general fertilizer than lots of little bags of specialised ones, and there is less waste than when all those separate bags deteriorate on the shelf.

Bonemeal is often suggested, perhaps because it has a low nutrient value and overdosing is very unlikely. Growmore is cheap and very effective. Vitax Q4 is even better as it contains many trace elements, but it is expensive. We use Yara Mila Complex; it comes in 25 kg bags, but we expect it to last at least 5 years.

General fertilisers can be used to feed any plants in the borders or in pots. Dosages vary but a handful per square yard will probably be sufficient. We sometimes use a liquid tomato feed - a high potash feed that will encourage flower and fruit production. As an alternative we sometimes use homemade comfrey juice which is also high in potash. The disadvantage of homemade brews is that you never know quite how strong they are.

One year we were asked to provide pots and hanging baskets for a wedding, so we took a lot more care over feeding. The difference was astounding; it really does reward your efforts. If the idea of regularly feeding your pots seems a bore, you can use a slow release fertiliser mixed into the compost at planting time. Water and warmth will cause nutrients to be released over several months.

When we need a high nitrogen fertiliser to encourage leafy growth, we also use pelleted chicken manure. It will get lawns to green up, and it gives a boost to plants such as spring cabbages early in the year. However, don't use it after August as the resulting soft growth will be too soft to survive winter cold.

So where do manure and compost fit in? Plants need bacteria to break the fertilisers down to enable absorption by the plant roots. The addition of organic matter increases bacterial activity and increase fertilisers' effectiveness.

You can also use the above fertilisers on indoor plants. Our very sickly looking citrus tree now looks quite presentable after being fed a handful of balanced fertiliser just three times a year - far better than using citrus food with winter and summer varieties to be applied weekly and so often forgotten!

By the time you read this the Chelsea Flower Show will be over, but don't forget to visit the gardens open for Milton and Repton Open Garden Weekends during June. You'll get lots of ideas and the owners will love to talk to you about their gardens.