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The Parish Magazine Repton, Foremark, Milton, Ingleby, Newton Solney
July 2015

Light at the end of the tunnel 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 Shell (for children aged 7+) Family BBQ at 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 4th July Ashbourne Road Church, Derby: 20th Anniversary Service Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 15th August Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Marriages Victoria Pollard and Darren Cheetham Funerals and Service of Commemoration Alan Geoffrey Siddall George Astle Sophie Byrne The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Services and Groups Bell Ringers Outing In the media 'Ride & Stride', Saturday 12th September St Wystan's News Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds A wonderful array! A visit from Year 5 St Saviour's News Have you an hour to spare? St Mary's News Christian Aid in Newton Solney Local Diary Event Details Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 1st July Derby Bach Choir Venetian Evening, Saturday 4th July Repton History Walks , Sundays 5th July, 12th July and 13th September Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 15th July Milton Lunch Club, Thursday 16th July Afternoon Tea, Sandwiches & Cake, Saturday 18th July Wine Tasting Evening, Saturday 18 July Los Pacaminos, Monday 31st August Repton Neighbourhood Development Plan Help Shape the Future of Repton Repton Village and History Repton Action Group: Yet More houses!   Can Repton Cope? Repton Rags The Parish Magazine ~ Adverts and Articles Repton Village Society Repton W.I. Summer Play provided by Repton Parish Council Scouts Repton Casuals Awards 2014 - 15 Repton Village History Group One Day Jitty Closure, Thursday 23rd July Repton Rags, 3rd, 17th and 31st July Mike Charlesworth and Noye's Fludde Thank you!   Repton Open Gardens Scarecrow Competition Results Repton Parish Council Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton Village Hall Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Percy William Ratcliff Cottages Trust Newton Solney C of E Infant School St Mary's Church during the Ordinands' retreat Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Horticultural Show, Saturday 5th September Newton Solney Art Group, Saturday 11th July Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Parish Council News Environment Matters Invaders in our Waterways You and your Pet Microchipping - the new legislation Charities Queen's Award for the Padley Centre Neighbourhood Watch Gardening Notes

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Light at the end of the tunnel

On a local cycle ride recently I found a relatively new path. It follows the line of the old tramway from the lime pits on the edge of the Calke estate and runs behind the houses of Ticknall towards Ashby. At two points the route passes through tunnels. As I cycled into one, it became so dark that I could not see the walls or the floor, which, for a moment, was quite unnerving. But I realised that, if I trusted that the surface beneath me was as even as the rest of the path had been, and kept my eyes focused straight ahead towards the arch of light at the end of the tunnel, I should be alright.

On narrow tracks elsewhere there can be a steep drop either side, or high banks of nettles rising up. Either way, you have to keep looking ahead to stay on course or there's a danger of crashing off.

This seems to me a picture of what life can be like. Things which happen around us can throw us off balance. Sometimes we may feel as if we're in a dark tunnel and don't really know what's going on. Such things can unsettle us or bring us to a halt. Where can we look at these times?

The writer of the letter to the Hebrews in the Bible encouraged his readers to "run with determination the race that lies before us. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end." Jesus described himself as "the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." That light can be both a guide and a comfort. I have certainly found that knowing Jesus as the light has made a real difference to my life, giving direction, purpose and strength.

I greatly appreciate living in such a beautiful area with easy access to the countryside. I hope we are all able to enjoy the summer and our surroundings with an 'attitude of gratitude' for all that is good.

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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
Frances Wimbush, 703180

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Brasses
Sue Parker, 702550

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

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The United Reformed Church

Services and Preachers

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SHELL Group for young people aged 7+

. . . meets on Mondays from 6.30 to 7.30 pm during term-time. This month activities include decorating cakes, rounders and a barbeque!

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Family BBQ at 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 4th July

This is always a popular event: lots of good food, a bouncy castle and children's games, or just the chance to relax in the sunshine. If you would like to join us, tickets are available from members, or telephone 701581 .

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Ashbourne Road Church, Derby: 20th Anniversary Service

Our friends at Ashbourne Road United Reformed Church joined with Ashbourne Road Methodist Church twenty years ago to form a local Ecumenical Partnership. We are invited to celebrate with them on the evening of Sunday 12th July at 6.15 pm.

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Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 15th August

Donations are needed of items to sell, large or small. Please ring 701581 to arrange collection. All proceeds for church funds.

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Marriages

Victoria Pollard and Darren Cheetham of Ladybank Road, Mickleover, were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 20th June.

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Funerals and Service of Commemoration

On Thursday 4th June St Wystan's Church was packed for a Service of Commemoration for the life of Sophie Byrne, who died aged 13 on Sunday 24th May in Rainbows Children's Hospice.   Sophie's mother Jane Rushton, née Hughes, attended school in Repton and works at Repton Prep School.

Alan Geoffrey Siddall of Flat 2, The National School, Penn Lane, Melbourne, died aged 54 on Friday 22nd May. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on 18th June was followed by cremation at Markeaton Crematorium.

George Astle of Springfield Road, Repton, died on Wednesday 10th June aged 75. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church on 25th June was followed by cremation at Bretby.

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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 contact us.

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Repton Benefice

Services and Groups

The next service of Prayer for Christian Healing is at St Wystan's Church on Wednesday 29th July at 7.30 pm. Everyone is welcome either for prayer and the laying on of hands or simply to be part of a quiet service.

Intercessory Prayer for Healing meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 6th July.

The Bible Study Group studying the Acts of the Apostles meets at 7.30 pm on Thursday 2nd July at 28 The Pastures. Then, after a summer break, meetings will resume in September. Please see Stephen Longden if you are interested in joining.

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A Celtic Benefice Service

Our benefice service in May took place at St Mary's Church. Celebrating the Holy Trinity, that quite confusing idea that our God is one God and yet is three persons, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, a really good congregation enjoyed a Communion service in the Celtic tradition. It was very well received, and we will try it again.

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Bell Ringers Outing

In May, thirty-seven bell ringers and their spouses left the Cross for South Yorkshire. As well as our local ringers, the party included colleagues from church towers in Melbourne, Aston-on-Trent and elsewhere, and we were to visit towers in villages that most of us had never even heard of.

High Bradfield, our first stop, is very close to Sheffield, yet a lovely rural village perched high on the edge of the moors, and St Nicholas' Church is an intact example of very fine perpendicular architecture from the 15th century, with eight bells in the tower reached by a narrow spiral staircase.

After 45 minutes' ringing we moved on nine miles, our coach driver expertly negotiating the winding lanes, to St Mary's Church at Ecclesfield, another late mediaeval gem with ten bells. Lunch was taken in the Castle Inn at Bolsterstone to fortify us for another spell of ringing at the nearby church, also dedicated to St Mary. Next came St John's at Penistone, and lastly, Holy Trinity Church at Wentworth, a magnificent Victorian Gothic edifice, all space and light, commissioned by the 6th Earl Fitzwilliam. There are only six bells in its lofty tower, but it was a long climb to the ringing chamber, with the spire above rising to 212 feet, the same height as at Repton.

A short walk took us to the George and Dragon for excellent Yorkshire beer and a substantial evening meal. It was a memorable day of interesting churches and bells amidst lovely countryside. Many thanks to Simon Coe, one of the Repton band, for all the preparation and planning that this very successful excursion required.

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In the media

On Tuesday 16th June, the historian Dan Snow, Professor Martin Biddle and a team from the BBC spent the day filming in and around St Wystan's Church for a programme to be broadcast in the autumn, provisionally titled 'In Search of the Vikings'. You may have seen or heard the drone used for filming outside.

Later in the week, a photographer came to take photos of Foremark Church and St Wystan's crypt for a new edition of the Pevsner Architectural Guide to Derbyshire to be published by Yale University Press.

Click here if you want to know more about Repton and the Vikings.

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'Ride & Stride' ~ Saturday 12th September

Once again the sponsored 'Ride & Stride', in aid of Derbyshire Churches & Chapels Preservation Trust, will coincide with the nationwide Heritage Day on Saturday 12th September. More details will be made available nearer the time, but for now, please note the date.

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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

A wonderful array!

We should like to let St Wystan's PCC and congregation know how warm and welcoming the church appeared to us as we saw for the first time that wonderful array of new hassocks together with the bright runners along the pews. They represent a great deal of patient work and we thank all who have contributed to enhancing the appearance of the church so magnificently.

Dick was churchwarden at St Wystan's for 5 years around 1990.   He and Sallie lived in the Pastures
but on retirement in the mid 1990s moved to Hereford.

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A visit from Year 5

In June we welcomed the children of Year 5 at Repton Primary School to St Wystan's. They came especially to compare a place of Christian worship with what they had learned about a mosque.

They were particularly interested in the way we use different colours during the changing seasons, at Christian festivals and to signify different feelings. They also looked at our stained glass, some of which is commemorative but some more traditional in that it tells stories of Jesus from the Bible.

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St Saviour's News

Have you an hour to spare?

As many visitors know, Ann Redfern is often to be found at St Saviour's, beavering away in the churchyard or inside the church itself. For all her work we are indebted and very grateful. However we do now need to support her as churchwarden by sharing some of her tasks. I am wondering whether any local people, perhaps someone now retired who has a little time on their hands, might be able to help.

Neither of the following should take more than about an hour a month: 1. Trimming the edges of the flower beds and tidying the churchyard; the pathways need to be kept clear with weed-killer. 2. A monthly whisk around the church to sweep the floor, vacuum the doormat, dust and de-cobweb - those that can be reached! This could include a quarterly brass clean; there are very few items!

If you would like to help keep your local church as you would wish it to be, well cared for, clean and welcoming, please contact me for a chat.

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St Mary's News

Christian Aid in Newton Solney

Including Gift Aid, money donated in Newton Solney through the church totalled £170. Thank you to all who left their envelopes either in St Mary's or at Cranberries, and to anyone who chose to donate directly to Christian Aid headquarters.

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Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 1st July from 12.30 to 1.30 pm in St Wystan's Church £4.   Homemade soup, bread and cheese followed by coffee.   And a chat! Everyone welcome. Do come!

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

Sundays 5th July, 12th 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 .

Books, Browse and Coffee Wednesday 15th July, 11 am in St Wystan's Church Also at the first Wednesday 'Soup, Cheese and Chat' 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 16th July, 12.30 pm in Milton Village Hall.   £5. A 'Posh Shop' High Tea! Contact Lynn, 704540, Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436 Everyone welcome wherever you live! If you need transport, let us know

Wendy and Stephen Longden invite you to Afternoon Tea, Sandwiches & Cake Saturday 18th July, 2.30 - 5.00 pm Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street, Repton Raffle & Plant Stall, and a chance to look round a lovely garden £5 in aid of St Wystan's Church

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.

Los Pacaminos featuring Paul Young with supporting artists Monday 31st August - doors open at 7.30 pm in the Milton Marquee at the Swan The very best in Tex Mex, with one of Britain's finest vocalists Tickets £20 from , 07971 731 571. In aid of Macmillan cancer support

Messy Church Happy holiday! See you again on 27th September!    .

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Neighbourhood Development Plan for the Parish of Repton

Help Shape the Future of Repton

Do you have a view on how the parish is developing? And on how it should develop over the coming years? Work to create a Neighbourhood Development Plan has now started, and you have a chance to contribute.

This stuff matters!

Once adopted, the plan will be an important part of the planning process and influence how the parish will develop for the benefit of its residents. But it does need local input and involvement - and now is the time to act!

In April approximately 80 people attended a public launch meeting in the village hall. If you weren't able to attend, you can still access all the information and opening presentation on the village website at reptonvillage.org.uk.

. . . and we need help

At the launch, people were asked if they were willing to become involved, in ways such as delivering questionnaires, liaising with the local authority, or canvassing opinion. There has been a fantastic response but more help would be greatly appreciated. If you're interested in the future of Repton, please contact np@reptonvillage.org.uk. The sooner you volunteer, the sooner we can start to make a difference.

Look out for the questionnaire

We will soon be delivering questionnaires to every household in the parish and aim to get a response from more than half of all residents. Be prepared!

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Repton Village & History

Yet More houses!   Can Repton Cope?

The need for new homes has been a constant part of the national agenda for many decades, but how many more homes can we cope with here in Repton?

In the 2001 census Repton had 993 households. In the last 12 months alone, 33 houses have been built next to Repton Primary school, and another 40 are currently under construction adjacent to Longlands. Plans have been approved for 75 houses across the road from the Mount Pleasant Inn, and this summer South Derbyshire District Council will be considering a proposal for yet another 52 houses off Milton Road. That will make a total of 200 new houses on greenfield land to the east of the village, and who knows what developers will come up with next!

Repton Action Group

Already over 400 people have signed a petition objecting to the developments, and now a group of residents have joined together to form Repton Action Group. We feel very strongly that Repton cannot sustain this level of development. It is not enough for the developers to boast of creating play areas near the new build without also improving services. The roads through Repton and Willington will not be altered or improved in any way; the Council and developers do not think it necessary. The extra traffic generated by 200 new houses will simply have to be absorbed by the current roads. As local people you will know how congested these roads already are during rush hours.

It is too late to change developments already under construction, but the Action Group has been successful in getting central government to look again at the plans for Mount Pleasant. Our MP, Heather Wheeler, also opposes further development in Repton and has arranged to meet the planning inspector.

We are trying to ensure our voices are heard. If enough opposition is voiced, then perhaps we can protect our green fields, our sanity and our safety as we drive through the village. If you also feel strongly about preserving the character of Repton:

Get in touch with us;

Contact Heather Wheeler to let her know how you feel;

Lodge an objection with SDDC against more houses being built in Repton;

Get involved with the Neighbourhood Development Plan;

Look us up on Facebook, and comment.

We believe that Repton simply cannot sustain this level of development, and we are in danger of losing the character of the village that we value.

Repton Rags Boys & girls aged 7 to 14 Fun and games, indoors and out, and plenty of time to chat with your friends Fridays 3rd, 17t and 31st July 6.30 to 8 pm at the Den      £1 a head More info from Julie Groom, 0797 4998852 or . Come along and have fun!

The Parish Magazine ~ Adverts and Articles

John Caws has now handed over responsibility for small ads to Janine Appleby. We thank him for his carefulness and hard work.   For ads on the glossy pages, contact Linda Shortt, and for event ads, the editor. Contact details.

As well as adverts, we welcome contributions on matters affecting our villages. All material will be edited. If you would prefer an article to be published anonymously, you must still let the editor have your name and contact details. You can find the next copy date at the end of the small ads.

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Repton Village Society

Our Jazz Concert at the end of May raised £700 towards the purchase of projection equipment for the new village hall. Barbara Taylor and All That Jazz performed as well as ever, and the audience greatly enjoyed the music and atmosphere. Very many thanks to Repton School for once again making Pears School available to us free of charge. The raffle raised £300; all of the many prizes had been generously donated by members and local businesses, including a one-hour flying lesson from Donair, vouchers from The Bulls Head, The Boot and Bookuccino's (the café in Burton Library), chocolates from the Spar shop, beauty products from the Mulberry Beauty Salon and spirits, wine, biscuits and a hamper from members. Finally Lesley Aishford pledged £100 if people got up and danced; it worked! Lesley also provided another of the prizes, an orchid, and deserves our sincere thanks.

In June, Ken Smith, the Cultural Heritage Manager for the Peak District National Park, gave an entertaining account of some of the Park's recent archaeological projects, which included rebuilding a weir across the Derwent at Calver, investigations at Chatsworth and work at Ecton Copper Mine. His talk was accompanied by excellent photographs.

Thursday 2nd July, Repton village hall, 7.30 pm: Christine Gregory, 'A River in Time, the Story of a Peak District River'. Christine is a writer, photographer and painter who has written about the River Bradford and the way in which it has shaped the communities that depended on it over centuries. The river itself, the dale sides, surrounding farmland and woods are rich in wildlife. Christine's talk is based on her book which also contains many excellent photographs. She will be bringing copies for sale.

Wednesday 29th July: The coach leaves the church at 1 pm for Halfpenny Green Vineyards at Stourbridge in Staffordshire for a tour of the vineyard and an opportunity to taste the award-winning wines. The vines cover 30 acres and were first planted over 30 years ago. There is a shop where wines can be purchased, and the visit ends with a cream tea which is included in the cost. The coach leaves at 4.45 to arrive back in Repton at about 6 pm. Members £22, non-members £24.

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Repton W.I.

At our June meeting we welcomed several visitors to hear Deborah Spencer from Long Clawson Dairy tell us about the making of Stilton cheese, how it got its name, and some of its more interesting uses. Stilton was first made on a farm in Leicestershire in the 18th century by a farmer's wife whose brother kept a coaching inn in a little village called Stilton on the main north road in Cambridgeshire. His guests enjoyed the cheese so much that he asked for more, and it came to be called Stilton.

Later, Lynne reported on her visit to the W.I. Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, and Ann told us about her day at the Annual Meeting at the Royal Albert Hall, attended by the Queen and other members of the Royal Family.

Members signed up for a lunch at the Mulberry Restaurant in Burton and a garden visit at the end of June. The Village History Walks are proving very popular with the W.I. providing teas and the History Group guiding the walks; funds raised go towards the Village Hall Appeal.

At this month's meeting on Tuesday 14th July, Kevin Banton's title is 'Watch the Birdie'. All are welcome in the village hall at 7.15 pm.

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Summer Play provided by Repton Parish Council
Mitre Field, Mitre Drive, Repton

Come along and enjoy the facilities; they are all free of charge for local young people. Just turn up on the day. Suitable clothing and footwear should be worn.

Wednesday 29th July	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall
Tuesday 4th August	2 - 4 pm	Play Mobile
Tuesday 18th August	2 - 4 pm	Laser Games
Wednesday 26th August	6 - 8 pm	Climbing Wall

The all-ability nine metre climbing wall is always a popular activity and this year we also have the Play Mobile which offers a range of play and craft activities including a bouncy castle, space hoppers and sack races. The Laser Games activity is an outdoor laser combat area made up of inflatable barricades, nets and tunnels. All the activities do, however, require fine weather!

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

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Scouts

In June the Scouts have been geocaching several times, searching out hidden treasures all over the village. We also had a great evening of canoeing and kayaking at Burton Canoe Club; the Scouts all stayed dry for the canoeing but then the majority decided that they couldn't finish a canoe session without being soaking wet, so they jumped in the river. Peak 2015 is fast approaching and we are starting to look forward to the huge selection of activities on offer in and around Chatsworth during the camp at the end of July.

If you would like more information about Scouts, please contact , 07989 990119.

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Repton Casuals Awards 2014 - 15

This has been a good year for the Club with 11 junior teams representing us in the Burton Junior Football League, and on Friday 12th June there was a big turnout for the Club's annual awards presentation evening with over 200 parents, grandparents and children attending.

The Chaz Clark Trophy was presented to Stanley Corbett. Stanley, who is only 8, suffered a hip injury a couple of years ago, but has been determined not to give up and has continued to play, improving all the time and always giving his very best.

Soccer School for ball skills resumes on Saturday 12th September at 10 am.

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Repton Village History Group

Our speaker in May was Keith Blood who talked about Ashbourne in 'Georgians, Jitties and Gingerbread'. As well as impressive Georgian buildings, he showed us many examples of Georgian frontages hiding much older structures. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect was the Jitties. Many of the streets were narrow paths or lanes running at right angles to the road, with dwellings on either side. Indeed, Keith had been born in one such building. Most of these passages are rights of way and lead back to parallel streets behind. Keith finished his talk at St Oswald's Church, which is to be the subject of our meeting in April next year. Oswald, King of Northumbria, was killed by Penda of Repton, King of Mercia, in 642. However, just over 10 years later Penda in his turn was defeated and killed by King Oswy, Oswald's brother and successor.

June saw a fascinating display and archive evening where, in addition to the usual items, there was another chance to see the WWI display, the display accompanying the hoard exhibition, and a new display of photographs of carvings recently 'discovered' in the roof of St Wystan's Church.

Instead of speakers in July and August we have two visits. Our August visit to Stoneywell is fully booked, but there are a couple of spaces still on the guided tour of the Church of the Holy Angels at Hoar Cross on Wednesday 15th July.

Monthly indoor meetings recommence on Tuesday 15th September; all are welcome to join us at 7.30 pm in Repton village hall - members £2, visitors £3 including refreshments. Call 01283 702448 or for more information.

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One Day Jitty Closure ~ Thursday 23rd July

A reminder that the jitty between Repton School Art School and the Priory boarding house will be closed for one day only on Thursday 23rd July. The alternative route to re-join the jitty up to Mitre Drive is via the Burton Road and the footpath between the Red Lion Public House and Redshaws Butchers.

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Repton Rags ~ 3rd, 17th and 31st July

Our July meetings are all 'meet and play' sessions, and as we are getting into the summer holidays, we really need some help to make them happen. If you can help out on the 31st July please let me know.

For August we will be meeting on the field on the 14th and 28th. Again, if you can help out to cover holidays, please let us know. Depending on how many children come along on the night, we may put some extra activities on such as a letter hunt or a nature watch. So come along if you can, and we'll have some fun.

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Mike Charlesworth and Noye's Fludde

Mike was famed for his ability to manage a huge cast. A Repton production of Under Milk Wood involved every boy in his house, and in April 1992, some years after retirement, he produced Noye's Fludde in St Wystan's Church. The church was packed for three nights, with most of Repton Primary School as performers and an orchestra from John Port School. The Parish Magazine spoke of "a lively and imaginative production involving an enormous number of people" and continued: "The children of Repton Primary School performed magnificently as the animals and the waves. The masks were beautifully made, and the headmaster and his staff were also responsible for producing the scenery and most of the props. The orchestra of the John Port School conducted by Wendy Smith was of very high standard and was supported by the Repton Handbell Ringers. The leading singers, Noah and his wife, their three sons, Ham, Sem and Jaffett, and Mrs Noah's 'Gossips' have demanding parts to sing and carried them off with great style."

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Thank you!   Repton Open Gardens

The Open Gardens weekend began with Wine and Music in St Wystan's Church, where a large and enthusiastic audience thoroughly enjoyed a concert by the confident and highly talented pupils of Foremarke Hall directed by Susan Bloor.

Over the weekend, sixteen gardens opened including a remarkable five 'yellow book' gardens. How many villages in the entire country can boast that number? This year we were let down by the weather. However, a surprising number of hardy souls braved the rain which fell throughout Saturday, and there were good numbers on Sunday, which was generally dry but overcast. Children could enjoy the scarecrows and snail trail and they loved looking for the fairies; adults were more drawn to cakes and cream teas. In the gardens there were home produce stalls, a tombola, plant sales and a bookstall.

A big thank you to a number of generous sponsors: the Awbery Management Centre provided wine at Friday's 'Evening of Wine and Music', East Midlands Airport gave financial help, and Gibson Technology of Repton gave the first prize in our Open Gardens Prize Draw, a Weber One-Touch 57 cm kettle barbeque. Similarly we are very grateful to all those who gave prizes for the Prize Draw; a full list, together with winners, will be in the August magazine.

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

Inevitably the takings were down on last year's, but despite the weather, the weekend raised about £3,300 for St Wystan's Church funds. Congratulations to Tom Hyde and all his team.

Scarecrow Competition Results

What a wonderful display of inventive fun was scattered around the village! Congratulations to everyone who took part.

First prize went to the Truman family for their Three Little Pigs, an entertaining, well constructed tale, not forgetting the wolf in the hedge.

2nd prize went to Puffin House, St Wystan's School, for the Cheshire Cat. The school's Alice in Wonderland display was a joy, but the Cheshire Cat's grin won the day.

3rd prize went to the Groom family for Prince Charming, a clever play on words. The Eastern snake charmer worked his magic by clever use of almost invisible fishing lines.

Such was the high level of entrants that five commendations were awarded:

•	The Auterson family for the Caterpillar and the Butterfly
•	The bellringers for the Bellringer!
•	Joan Paulson for the Rolls Royce Engineer
•	Gay Prevett for the Gardener
•	Natalie and Phoebe Worton for the Dancing Girls

Everyone brought colour and fun into a wet afternoon. Thank you!

P.S. The Name the Scarecrow competition at the Village Party and Open Gardens weekend was won with the name 'Zebedee'.

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Repton Parish Council

Summer Activities at The Mitre Field: The Parish Council is pleased to announce that it has again secured a number of activities for the school summer holidays. These are funded by the Parish Council and free for all local young people. See above for details.

Car Parking at Willington: Derbyshire County Council will shortly be opening a consultation on the use of the car park close to the picnic site and station at Willington. The proposal is to charge for parking at the site which is a very popular venue with a recorded usage of 25,845 cars during the last financial year. Many local residents would be affected, and it is important that your views are heard. Please respond to the proposals on 01629 533190, at derbyshire.gov.uk, or by letter to Derbyshire County Council, County Hall, Matlock DE4 3AG.

Community Funding: Our local County Councillor Martyn Ford still has some funds available for small local interest groups or initiatives such as luncheon clubs in need of funding. If you wish to apply, please contact Councillor Ford directly - martyn.ford@derbyshire.gov.uk

Bins and Recycling: SDDC is introducing changes to the current system. The large paper recycling facilities in this area will no longer be available. However, paper will be collected from the doorstep if it is put in carriers and placed out with the usual collection. You are particularly asked to check that items can be recycled before placing them in the green bin. For full details, click here.

The July Meeting of the Parish Council will now take place on Monday 20th July and not the second Monday in the month.

Next meeting: Monday 20th July in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton, at 7.30 pm. All are welcome. Susan Reilly, Clerk to the Council

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

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Village Hall

The sun shone and Milton welcomed over 450 visitors for our annual Open Gardens. Ten gardens were open, including two for the first time. The village hall was transformed into a garden tea room with grass, plants and a water feature, and Main Street had a real party feel, complete with bunting, scarecrows, and lots of people walking about with plants purchased from the plant stalls! Gardens were much admired, new friends made, and tea and home-made cakes appreciatively consumed. In the evening tired but happy Miltonians retired to The Swan for a village BBQ, a lovely end to a super day.

Thank you to everyone attended, opened their gardens, helped on the day, or made the delicious cakes. The afternoon raised over £3,000 for village funds, a fantastic result and a record for Milton. Next year, Milton Open Gardens will be on Sunday 5th June.

Dates have now been set for a Harvest Supper on 9th October, Live and Local music evening on 14th November and Christmas Party (new format) on 5th December.

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

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Milton W.I.

Another successful day in the village hall at Milton Open Gardens: we served homemade cream teas, delicious cakes and gallons of tea. Many thanks to all the bakers and helpers on the day. Ruth Ballington, who was to talk to us about organ donation, was unfortunately unable to make our meeting as she was involved with a donor family. Fortunately, fellow member Sue Goodwin, who was lucky enough to visit Buckingham Palace along with 8,000 other W.I. ladies for the100th Anniversary Garden Party, gave a very interesting and humorous talk about an unforgettable day at the palace.

On 1st July at 6 pm we have a walk around Fauld followed by a meal at The Cock Inn in Hanbury. Our Social outing on 19th August will be a visit to Denby Pottery. The factory tour starts at 10.30 and is followed by the opportunity for lunch in the restaurant.

Next meeting: Wednesday 15th July, 7.30 pm in Milton village hall where a Kurling evening has been arranged. No stilettos on that night ladies, just your sporty flats.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

Percy William Ratcliff Cottages Trust

The trustees of the cottages known as Sunnyside, Newton Solney, have a vacancy. Anyone wishing to apply for this accommodation should request an application form from the Clerk of the Trustees on 01283 701147.

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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 the 2nd July for our last session of the summer term.

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St Mary's Church during the Ordinands' retreat

A reminder that the Ordinands are once again holding their Petertide Retreat at Newton Solney, and, as a result, St Mary's Church is closed to visitors from Wednesday 1st July until the Parish Communion Service at 10 am on Sunday 5th July.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

Our speaker for June was Rod Pearson, who has talked to us in the past. His topic this time was 'The Lever Brothers and Port Sunlight'. After a few problems with the technology, Rod gave an amusing account of the history of Sunlight Soap, which found its way into almost all corners of the world to form the foundation of a vast, worldwide, industrial empire. It was important for the brothers to look after the workforce, and between 1888 and 1914 they built the garden town of Port Sunlight; it still exists today, and many still live in the same rented homes many years on. Rachel gave the vote of thanks.

Our most recent trip was to Melton Mowbray, with its great market. The weather was perfect for sauntering and browsing.

Tuesday 7th July: 2.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall

A business meeting followed by a social afternoon. There will also be a Bring and Buy stall for people to bring excess garden produce.

Tuesday 21st July: A trip to Jodrell Bank

We leave the Unicorn Inn at 9.15, returning by about 5. The cost of £20 includes the entry fee and a talk. There is a restaurant onsite. Other pick-up points as usual - Dalebrook at 9 am, with Repton and Willington after Newton. There are still some seats available.

For further information about any of the above, please contact Jane, our Secretary, on 01283 564520.

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Newton Solney Horticultural Show
Saturday 5th September

Something different for you to make this year for the handicraft section - a hand-made hat or fascinator. For information, contact Chris Freestone on 701147.

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Newton Solney Art Group

On Saturday 11th July, Newton Solney Art Group are staging their annual Art Show in Newton Solney Village Hall from 1 to 4 pm. In addition to the many art works on display, with some of them for sale, there will be a stall displaying numerous crafts, a raffle and refreshments. So come along and see the talented artists of Newton Solney.

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Newton Solney W.I.

The June meeting was very well attended. Members heard reports from Pam Haines about her visit to the W.I. Royal Garden Party and from Rosemary Curzon, delegate to the recent AGM in London. Both gave excellent feedback and interesting insights.

President Vanessa Archer reported that the W.I. baked goods stall at the plant sale and coffee morning had been very successful, raising over £125 for village hall funds - a big thank you to all W.I. bakers!

There are several events planned for the summer, the Tutored Wine Tasting, a garden visit towards the end of July and the summer social in August. However, the W.I. whist drives are to be discontinued: low attendance means that unfortunately they are no longer viable; this can be reviewed if renewed interest is expressed.

Our speaker, Lynne Tan-Watson, displayed her passion for herbs, their history and cultivation, and their use both medicinal and culinary. Her favourites - rosemary, lavender and comfrey - all have a special place at The Witch's Garden herbary at Donisthorpe.

At our next meeting on Tuesday 14th July at 7.30 pm in the village hall, Audrey Hall's theme will be 'A slow boat to London'. Caroline Boam and Carolyn Steele will be tea hostesses and Denise Parker will provide flowers.

As usual there is no meeting in August. The autumn season starts on Tuesday 8th September. There are still some tickets for the Tutored Wine Tasting with Cheese at 7.30 pm on Saturday 18th July, £12.50, but they are selling quickly so please contact Annie Topliss on 01283 703411 to reserve as numbers are limited. Remember that this is to help the village hall, a fun evening, and open to everyone. Come along and give your support.

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Newton Solney Parish Council News

Raft Race: The wet weather didn't dampen the spirits of the rafters and spectators at the annual Newton Solney to Willington race. Thank you to everyone involved in making it such a fun event.

Bladon Fields Housing Development Rejected: South Derbyshire District Council's planning committee has refused permission for Barratt Homes to build up to 100 houses on Bladon Fields at the edge of the parish. Thank you to everyone on the Bladon Fields Action group for their hard work.

Possible Extension to Willington Quarry: Following the initial drop-in session held on Monday 15th June, the Parish Council will be inviting Cemex to come and give a further presentation regarding the proposed gravel extraction by Newton Solney.

Next Meeting: Friday 24th July at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

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Environment Matters

Invaders in our Waterways

Foreign animals and plants have colonised our waterways at an unprecedented rate. They threaten native wildlife by predation, damaging habitats and spreading disease. Every year the Canal & River Trust spends around £700,000 just to treat invasive weeds. Here are some of the most serious:

•	Mink live in the riverbank and hunt in water and on land. The population of water voles has fallen by 90% since 1990 after American Mink escaped from fur farms. It takes just one mink to wipe out a colony.
•	Terrapins are often bought as cute pets, the size of a 50p piece, but when they grow - and they eventually reach the size of a dinner plate - they are released into watercourses. Here they prey on dragonfly larvae, small fish, frogspawn and even bully ducklings.
•	Giant hogweed is a striking and attractive plant that in the 19th century was grown in ornamental gardens. However, it is highly invasive and its sap causes blisters, long-lasting scars, and, if it comes in contact with eyes, blindness. It can grow up to three metres high and has to be removed professionally.
•	Himalayan Balsam was introduced into gardens in 1839. It has spread rapidly in the wild and forms impenetrable thickets that stop other plants growing. However, when it dies back in winter, riverbanks are left bare. The Canal & River Trust organises balsam bashing parties every autumn to uproot the plants growing beside rivers and canals.

For further information about the work of the Trust, or to become a volunteer, see their website.

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You and your Pet

Microchipping - the new legislation

From the 6th April next year it will be a legal requirement to microchip all dogs. As vets we strongly support this as it helps us to quickly reunite all lost pets with their owners. Unfortunately there are other reasons which have led to the measure, including the control of puppy farming, dog fighting, and encouraging responsible pet ownership. It is hoped that this law will reduce levels of cruelty and neglect, and help identify owners who keep dangerous dogs.

As well as making sure a dog is microchipped, details must be kept up to date; if a dog is found a new home, this must be registered with a pet identification database such as Petlog. We are keen to ensure that all pets are microchipped, not just dogs. Apart from helping us to reunite stray animals with their owners, we can urgently contact the owner if a pet is bought in injured.

Microchips have evolved, and they are now much smaller than they used to be. A treat at the end goes a long way to ensuring a relatively painless procedure!

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Charities

Queen's Award for the Padley Centre

The Padley Centre, one of Derby's leading charities, has received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. The awards were created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee, and are the highest awards made to local volunteer groups to recognise their outstanding work in their communities. The award will be made later this summer by the Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire.

The centre has been operating now for 30 years. Founded by volunteers, run by a board of volunteer trustees, and supported by an army of volunteers who help throughout the group, the Padley Centre helps to rebuild the lives of those who are destitute or live on the streets.

If you want to support them too, whether physically or financially, see padleygroup.com or call 01332 774480.

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Neighbourhood Watch

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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Gardening Notes

The Garden in July

July is the month for soft fruit. To buy, soft fruit is always quite expensive as it involves manual labour and doesn't lend itself to storing.

Strawberries are the first fruits of summer and it is really quick to get your first harvest, just 60 days after planting if you buy specially prepared plants. The yield is best in the second year and then tails off. The best way to manage this is to have several small beds and to renew each every 3 or 4 years. Choose your varieties carefully and you can have strawberries for several months; otherwise you may have too many all at once. Don't plant them too closely. After fruiting strawberries will naturally send out runners that will root easily; for best results dip the runner into a small pot, and when the pot is full of roots sever the runner. You will need to net to protect from birds, and either plant through a membrane or, more traditionally, put straw underneath. Once the harvest is complete, cut the plants down to the ground leaving a few runners to grow on.

Raspberries take longer to establish. Straight after planting cut the stems down hard; you don't want fruit in the first year if you want better plants. There are two distinct types of raspberry, summer fruiting and autumn fruiting. The summer fruiting types fruit on stems made the previous year and produce their fruit in June and July. The old stems need to be pruned after fruiting. Autumn fruiting varieties fruit over a longer period but produce less fruit per picking. They should be pruned to the ground in the spring as soon as new growth has started. If you grow both types you will have raspberries for most of the summer with plenty to freeze or jam. Raspberries have a tendency to wander - ours come up in veg beds several feet away - so if you grow both types, keep them well apart. They are shallow rooted so use a mulch such as grass cuttings to keep down weed growth and keep roots cool. When they deteriorate, raspberries are best replaced with virus free stock; it is not worth trying to propagate them yourself. The blackbirds enjoy a few but we have enough to share so don't bother with netting.

Two years ago I started growing gooseberries as cordons. The plants are now about four foot tall but only a few inches wide; I will let them get to 6 foot. It is really easy to pick the fruit without getting scratched, and there is less likelihood of mildew. Gooseberries tend to ripen together so only one or two pickings are necessary. Once the fruit has been picked all the side shoots need to be cut back to 2 buds and the leader tied into a strong support that will resist the wind even when the plant is heavy with fruit. Plants can be much closer and I am expecting a good yield. Gooseberries are very easy to propagate from hardwood cuttings later in the year.

Pigeons love the blackcurrants; last year we netted them and had greatly improved yields. We generally pick twice. If you like, cut off some of the fruiting branches and pick the fruit at leisure from your deckchair. Prune them after fruiting; cut one third of older growth down to ground level. They are long-lived bushes and easy to propagate.

Now is also the time to cut down early flowering perennials such as aquilegias, hesperis, geraniums, violas and pulmonarias. Cut them hard, right down to the ground, then water and feed to encourage regrowth. Some plants such as geraniums and violas will flower again; you will improve re-flowering if you cut them down earlier while there are still some flowers, rather than waiting for every flower to finish. This will also reduce mildew, and the new leaves will be much more attractive than the old ones. Furthermore you will reduce seeding in these sometimes promiscuous plants; if you want seeds, select a few of the best plants and leave them uncut. If your borders look empty after you have cut down spring flowerers, maybe you have too many of them! A good guideline is to have a third of the border for spring flowers and two thirds flowering after June.

Pain disappears in the garden and reappears in the house!