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

Remembering VJ Day

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
Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 15th August
Coffee Morning, Saturday 12th September
SHELL Group for young people aged 7+

Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Baptisms
Emilia Charlotte Breeze
Nancy Marie Hickebottom
Sandra Marie Lindon-Davies
Laura Marie Lindon

Marriages
James Fisher and Johanna Jennings
Stacey Marie Plowman and Scott Waddell

Funerals and Burial of Ashes
Clive Robert (Bob) Slack
Frederick Harry (Fred) Hoos
Mabel Margaret Battley

The Memorial Book

Derby Diocese and the wider Church
Credit Unions

Repton Benefice
Remembering VJ Day
Services and Groups
Confirmation Groups for Adults and Children
Springtime in our Churches!
A Celtic Communion
Church Thefts

St Wystan's News
A School Visit
Sunday Club

Local Diary

Event Details
Repton School Concerts Society, 2015 - 2016 Season
Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 5th August
Yard Sale, Saturday 15th August
Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 19th August
Los Pacaminos, Monday 31st August
Newton Solney Show, Saturday 5th September
Antiques Evening with Hansons Auctioneers & Valuers, Saturday 12th September
Repton History Walks, Sunday 13th September
Newton Solney Harvest Lunch, Sunday 27th September
Messy Church, Sunday 27th September
Your Village Hall - Where have we got to? Sunday 27th September
Repton Ghost Walks, Fridays 30th October & 4th December
Children's Halloween Party, Saturday 31st October

The Great War Commemorated
100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . .

Repton Village Hall Appeal
We need your ideas and help

Repton Neighbourhood Development Plan
Help Shape the Future of Milton and Repton

Repton Village and History
Repton Rags
Sing The Messiah!
Scouts
Summer Play Activities
ngs Open Garden, Sunday 23rd August
Repton Lunch Club and Drop-In
Royal British Legion Chairman
Repton Village Society
Repton Village History Group
Repton W.I.
Yard Sale, Saturday 15th August
Repton Village Show, Saturday 5th September
Farewell to Angela and Terry
Repton Road Club
Repton Hash House Harriers, August Bank Holiday Hash
Repton Open Gardens Prize Draw Winners
Repton Parish Council

Milton & Foremark Village Matters
Milton W.I.

Newton Solney Village Matters
Newton Solney Sports Club Annual Cricket Match & Sports Day, Sunday 30th August
St Mary's Social Events
Newton Solney Tuesday Club
Newton Solney W.I.

Willington Surgery
Staff Changes
Electronic Prescriptions
Continuity of Care
Patients' Data
Named Accountable General Practitioner
Travel Vaccinations
Shingles and Flu Vaccination
Blood Tests

South Derbyshire
What's On in South Derbyshire and The National Forest
Mobile Library, Tuesday 18th August

Environment Matters
A last refuge for wild flowers

You and your Pet
The Dog that's on Viagra

Neighbourhood Watch

Gardening Notes


Remembering VJ Day

In May 1945 the European war was over, but despite national rejoicing, war in the east continued. British troops were still heavily involved, particularly in Burma, and many others who had fought their way across Europe were expecting to transfer.

In July, Stalin, Truman (Roosevelt had died in April), Churchill and Attlee (the result of the general election had not yet been declared) gathered in Potsdam to discuss a post-war settlement for Europe. On the 26th they called for the surrender of all Japanese armed forces, warning that, if Japan did not surrender, it would face 'prompt and utter destruction'. The call was rejected, and on 6th August an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. Two days later, with Japan still refusing to surrender, the Soviet Union declared war on Japan, and a second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. It is estimated that between them the two bombs killed up to a quarter of a million people, about half immediately while others were to suffer lingering deaths.

At this point Emperor Hirohito intervened, ordering the Supreme Council for the Direction of the War to accept the Allies' terms, and after several days of negotiations and a failed coup d'état, Hirohito announced the Japanese surrender. The ceremony took place on 2nd September aboard the United States battleship USS Missouri. The Second World War was over. It had cost somewhere between 65 and 80 million lives, a third of them Russian. The great majority of those who died, perhaps as many as two-thirds, were civilians.

To promote international co-operation, and to prevent anything similar happening again, the United Nations was established on 24th October 1945, a replacement for the League of Nations, which had proved itself ineffective. After a difficult start in the cold war era, the United Nations has grown in influence and authority. At its founding, it had 51 member states; now there are 193.

In the United Kingdom, the British Legion was founded after the Great War to care for those who had suffered as a result of service in the armed forces. That is still its primary purpose today. Now the Royal British Legion, having received its royal charter in 1971, it is also the Nation's custodian of Remembrance. As we look back on the suffering of two World Wars, we also reflect on our core principles: to secure peace and goodwill, to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy, and to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual service and helpfulness.

VJ Day, Saturday 15th August, will be marked by a brief Act of Remembrance at 3 pm at the War Memorial by the Lych Gate, and on Sunday 16th there will be a Service of Thanksgiving for the end of the Second World War at 9.45 am in St Wystan's Church. We hope you will join us there.
Tom Hyde MBE
President, Repton & District Royal British Legion


Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton
Every Weekday Morning
	7.45 am	Morning Prayer

EVERY Wednesday
	10 am	Holy Communion	

Sunday 2nd	Trinity 9
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Worship Together
	11 am	Matins
	12.30pm	Holy Baptism
	NO EVENING SERVICE

Sunday 9th	Trinity 10
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Parish Communion
	12.30pm	Holy Baptism
	6.30 pm	Evensong

Sunday 16th	Trinity 11
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	V.J. DAY Thanksgiving Service with Communion
	6.30 pm	Choral Evensong

Sunday 23rd	Trinity 12
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Parish Communion
	10.45am	Prayer for Healing

Sunday 30th	Trinity 13
	8 am	Holy Communion
	12 pm	Holy Baptism
	6.30 pm	at St Saviour's
St Saviour's, Foremark
Sunday 9th	Trinity 10
	6.30 pm	Evensong

Sunday 23rd	Trinity 12
	12 pm	Holy Baptism
	6.30 pm	Holy Communion

Sunday 30th	Trinity 13
	6.30 pm	Benefice Service
St Mary's, Newton Solney
Sunday 2nd	Trinity 9
	10 am	Parish Communion

Sunday 9th	Trinity 10
	10 am	Worship Together
	
Sunday 16th	Trinity 11
	10 am	Parish Communion

Sunday 23rd	Trinity 12
	10 am	Matins

Sunday 30th	Trinity 13
	6.30 pm	at St Saviour's

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's
2nd	11 am	Song of Solomon 5: 2 - 16	John Cawdron

9th	9.45 am	Ephesians 4: 25 - 5: 2		Susan Ashby
		Intercessions:			Audrey Morris
		Offertory:			Susan & Roger Ashby

16th	9.45 am	Ephesians 5: 15 - 20		Frances Wimbush
		Intercessions:			Ruth Attwood
		Offertory:			Frances & Martin Wimbush

23rd	9.45 am	Ephesians 6: 10 - 20		Carol Lloyd
		Intercessions:			Maggie Tennant
		Offertory:			Carol & Chris Lloyd

Altar Flowers
Frances Wimbush, 703180
2nd: Wedding. 9th: Liz Plant. 16th: Wedding. 23rd: Jenny Jones. 30th: Wedding.


Brasses
Sue Parker, 702550
Hazel Cook.


Altar Flowers & Cleaning at St Saviour's
Ann Redfern, 01332 862350
9th: Barbara Wild. 23rd: Marie and Alice Nixon. 29th: Wedding.


The United Reformed Church

Minister: Rev'd Brian Norris
2nd August
	11 am	Morning Worship
	6.30 pm	Service at Fisher Close Community Lounge

9th August
	11 am	Morning Worship

16th August
	11 am	Morning Worship with Holy Communion	

23rd August
	11 am	Morning Worship
	6.30 pm	Holy Communion

30th August
	11 am	Morning Worship

Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 15th August
A good selection of items, large and small, have already been collected. If you have anything to donate, please ring 701581. Don't miss out on the amazing bargains!


Coffee Morning
The next Coffee Morning will be on Saturday 12th September at 10.30 am.


SHELL Group for young people aged 7+
. . . recommences on Monday 14th September at 6.30 pm. New members are always welcome.


Baptisms

Emilia Charlotte Breeze, daughter of James and Jennifer Breeze of 58 Maygrove Road, London, was baptised at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Sunday 5th July.

Nancy Marie Hickebottom, daughter of Matt and Heidi Hickebottom of 14 Saxon Grove, Willington, was baptised at St Wystan's Church, Repton on Sunday 5th July.

Sandra Marie Lindon-Davies of Park Row, Bretby, and her daughter, Laura Marie Lindon of Mancetter, were baptised at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, on Wednesday 8th July.

We welcome them into the Church family.


Marriages

James Fisher and Johanna Jennings of Penkridge were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 11th July.

Stacey Marie Plowman and Scott Waddell of 2 Peter's Court, Hatton, were married at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, on Saturday 18th July.

We offer them our congratulations and best wishes
for their future lives together.


Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Clive Robert (Bob) Slack of 9 Saxon Croft, Repton, died on Tuesday 7th July aged 82. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 23rd July was followed by cremation.

Frederick Harry (Fred) Hoos of Oakland Village, Swadlincote, formerly of 7 Milton Road, Repton, died on Tuesday 14th July aged 84. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 31st July will be followed by cremation.
Ashes
The ashes of Mabel Margaret Battley of Dray Court, James Street, Burton, who died on 26th September 2009 aged 89, were interred in St Wystan's churchyard on Sunday 21st June 2015. Mabel was one of the 'diggers' on Professor Biddle's archaeological exploration at Repton during the 1970s and 1980s.

We offer our sympathy to their families and friends.


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.


Derby Diocese and the wider Church

Credit Unions
"Command those who are rich . . . to do good, to be rich in good deeds and to be generous and willing to share."
People who can't access affordable credit or basic banking services can be excluded in numerous ways. Unexpected financial difficulty can arise from events such as bereavement, divorce or redundancy. Many people find saving difficult; a quarter of adults run out of money before the end of the month. We have a duty to resist blaming them but instead to struggle with them towards a mutual solution, to be fair and kind.

This is where Credit Unions come in, by helping people when they are in need. Credit Unions are as regulated and secure as any other financial organisation. They are mutual, local organisations, their members linked by something in common, usually the place where they live or work. Individuals and organisations who become members and save money with them allow Credit Unions to make loans to members. Through making loans they generate income, capped at 3% a month.

In brief, Credit Unions offer savings facilities for their members; work for the benefit of members, not shareholders; offer mainly small and affordable loans to members who are over 18; may offer members a dividend or interest on savings.

Perhaps you feel some sense of injustice over the recent history of investment banking or the sharp practices of High Street banks, but if you are not swayed by the argument for social justice, you may be asking what is in it for you. Joining a Credit Union is a simple way to give and to improve your own wellbeing. Almost all social problems which impact everybody in a negative way have a relationship with inequality: by decreasing inequality, these problems decline.

The vision of Derby Diocese is to be Christ's presence throughout the county. As we engage in our communities we can blame or we can be practical. Supporting the local Credit Union is one practical way in which we can all become richer and fairer.
"We must help credit unions to become bigger, better known and easier to access if we want them to compete with high interest lenders."
Archbishop Justin


Repton Benefice

Remembering VJ Day
While V.E.Day marked the end of the conflict in Europe, fighting in the Second World War did not stop until the Japanese were defeated. VJ Day will be marked by a brief Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial by the Parish Church Lych Gate at 3 pm on Saturday 15th August.

Then on the following day, Sunday 16th August at 9.45 am in St Wystan's Church, there will be a special service to give thanks for the end of the Second World War.   Everyone is most welcome to join us as we mark the 70th anniversary of the close of one the bloodiest chapters in human history.


Services and Groups
There is no Taizé service at St Wystan's on Sunday 2nd August. The next will be on Sunday 6th September. There is no service of Prayer for Christian Healing in August.

Intercessory Prayer for Healing meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 3rd August. The Bible Study Group is on a summer break, resuming in September.
Confirmation Groups for Adults and Children
Confirmation is what follows on from Baptism in our personal commitment to the Christian faith. Performed by a bishop, it is a major step on our spiritual journey into God's love.

It has been a time since we had a group of adults looking at the basics of the Christian faith with a mind to being confirmed, but a group will be meeting in the autumn. If you are interested in joining them, please contact me to talk about it. It is open to anyone whether you are a regular worshipper or not. There will be a separate group for young people aged 10 to 13. Once again you should contact me as a first step.
, 01283 619686


Springtime in our Churches!
It is something to give thanks for that by the time you read this we will have baptised five adults in our benefice. Given repeated assertions in the media that our churches are irrelevant, shrinking or even dying out altogether, this will come as a surprise to some. However, it is a sign of hope to me that while many in the world write us off, God hasn't, and that as slowly but surely our churches move in the right direction, buds of growth are beginning to open.
Rev'd Martin


A Celtic Communion
Following the very positive response to the Celtic Service at the last Benefice Service, Parish Communion at St Mary's at 10 am on Sunday 6th September will be another opportunity to experience the perspectives offered by a Celtic Communion. This particular service will be based on services from the Iona Community.


Church Thefts
An important Anglo-Saxon 9th century stone, believed to be a cross shaft, was stolen recently from Hovingham church in Ryedale. Similar thefts elsewhere, including that of an ancient Norse stone from Harewood church last year, show a clear pattern: someone is specialising in their theft and disposal. These items are completely irreplaceable; we need to preserve them.

Our three churches are all possible targets. Please be aware. If you see anyone removing stone from the church, call the police immediately.


St Wystan's News

A School Visit
At the beginning of July we welcomed thirty 7 and 8 year-olds from Draycott Primary School to St Wystan's. Having studied the Anglo-Saxons, they came especially to experience the crypt, wanting to see what it was like to be in such an old room. They also looked at all the things in church that help us in our mission ministry. Some left prayers on the Prayer Tree and, after lunch at the Den, they came back to sketch the church. Later I received a parcel of thank you letters with comments such as:
'It was a beautiful church and I just wanted to say thank you.'
'. . the carved animals in the stone bricks looked like guards to keep away intruders!'
'I didn't know much about churches but now I know lots about them.'
'I loved making my way down the [crypt] steps to where the people pray.'
'The story of St Wystan is brilliant. I wonder what the high door is for?'
Don't we all!


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




Repton School Concerts Society

2015 - 2016 Season

Wed 23rd Sept 7.45 pm The Filthy Six - soul jazz in The 400 Hall
  Wed 7th Oct 7.45 pm Agata Policinska, violin, with Luis Parés, piano  
  Wed 4th Nov 7.45 pm Amy Green, classical saxophone,
with Christine Zerafa, piano
 
  Wed 18th Nov 7.45 pm Martin Roscoe, piano  
  Wed 13th Jan 7.45 pm Repton Music Department: 'L'Entente Cordiale'  
  Wed 27th Jan 7.45 pm The Swingle Singers in The 400 Hall
  Wed 24th Feb 7.45 pm The Busch Ensemble,
piano trio with Graham Oppenheimer
 
  Wed 27th April 6.30 pm AGM       followed at  
    7.30 pm by Repton School Music Competition Final  
  Wed 11th May 7.45 pm David Briggs - silent film organ improvisation
(Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, 1920)
in Repton School Chapel
  Wed 8th June 7.45 pm Alexander Ardakov, piano,
and James Mayhew, author-illustrator
 
Except where shown, concerts are in the Robert Beldam Hall in Repton Music School.

Tickets for the whole season of 10 concerts are available at £75.
Tickets for individual concerts are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions).

For further information or tickets contact
56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR. 01283 702550.



Soup, Cheese and Chat!

Wednesday 5th August 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!



Yard Sale

Saturday 15th August from 10 am at 2, 3 & 5 Monsom Lane, Repton

Including bric-a-brac, linens and small furniture

All proceeds to Repton Royal British Legion, Repton United Reformed Church, and the Nightingale Macmillan Unit at the Royal Derby Hospital



Books, Browse and Coffee

Wednesday 19th August, 11 am in St Wystan's Church
and every 3rd Wednesday in the month

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




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



Newton Solney Show

Saturday 5th September in Newton Solney Village Hall

Hall opens 9 am. Entries by 11.45. Staging by noon. Open to the public from 3 pm Prize-giving at 5, followed by the auction and prize draw

Schedules & entry forms from Chris Freestone, 01283 701147



Repton Village Hall Appeal

Antiques Evening

with Edward Rycroft and Sonia Jackson
from Hansons Auctioneers & Valuers

Saturday 12th September, 7.00 - 9.30 pm in Repton Village Hall

Join us at 7.00 pm for a glass of bubbly and nibbles.
Valuations start at 7.30. One item per person for £2.
Fun quiz activities will stretch your knowledge of antiques.


Tickets £12.50 from , 01283 702410.



Sunday 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 .



St Mary's Church Newton Solney

Harvest Lunch

Sunday 27th September at 1.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall

Tickets from Hazel Ward (701244) 21 Blacksmith's Lane
Adults £10 ~ Children under 12 £5
Please bring your own drinks!



Messy Church

Fun activities,craft and games,celebration and Sunday tea
for children and adults, anyone, any age

Here again on 27th September, 4 to 5.30 pm

To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or .

Everyone is welcome!



Repton Village Hall Appeal

Your Village Hall - Where have we got to?

Sunday 27th September, 3.00 - 4.30 pm in Repton Village Hall

An opportunity to see how much we have raised, view the plans,
discuss future events, and put forward your ideas



Repton Village Hall Appeal

Repton Ghost Walks

Fridays October 30th & December 4th at 7.15 pm

A light hearted introduction to Sad, Bad and Good Ghosts of Repton
and surrounding area, with mince pies and warming refreshments

Please call ahead on 01283 703828 (9am - 5pm) to book your tickets
Adults £20 (not suitable for children)



Repton Village Hall Appeal

Children's Halloween Party

Saturday October 31st, 5.30 - 7.30 pm, at Repton Village Hall

Come and join in the Halloween games and Halloween treasure hunt
Enter the best fancy dress competition
Hot dogs, tricky treats and refreshments available



The Great War Commemorated

100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . .
Dear Friends

In France and on the Dardanelles we still await events. Everything, however, points to the fact that when we are ready the enemy will not long have to wait to feel the force of nations allied in spirit, in determination, and in the cause of right.

It has been a pleasure to many of us to welcome home for a brief space of holiday some of our brave officers and men direct from the trenches. Without doubt they have borne and suffered in a way we cannot understand, but their cheeriness and splendid grit warms and cheers us in a way nothing else can. I have had the special privilege of seeing Captains Kerr and Wragg, of our own territorials, and Company Sergt-Major Maddock. They all bear testimony to the discipline and pluck of our Repton lads in the firing line, and there is no one of military age and competence who should now hesitate to join all those grand fellows who have done and are doing so much for us.

I was very glad to take as my first wedding in Foremarke Church for six years the marriage of a sailor from the great battle cruiser the 'Queen Mary'.

We have not many seamen from these landward parts, but we all know that, equal in every respect to our army, there are men waiting patiently for the time when the glorious traditions of the fleet shall be added to in a yet more splendid manner.
Your faithful friend and Vicar, Stephen Selwyn


Repton Village Hall Appeal

Thank you to all who have supported our events this summer. The support you give will make a real difference to our ability to apply for grants. More activities are planned for the autumn and winter, but we would be very grateful for ideas and help from you. Please contact either Adrian Argyle, 01283 701277, or , 01283 702410.


Neighbourhood Development Plan for the Parish of Repton

Help Shape the Future of Milton and Repton
The Neighbourhood Development Plan for the Parish of Repton (which includes Milton) gives us the opportunity to say what is important to us in the development of our two villages, Milton and Repton. It does include housing, but also deals with amenities and infrastructure. The more people who contribute to it, the more significant and representative the plan will be.

The basic issue is simple: do we want a say in the future of Repton and Milton, or do we just leave it all to the developers?
The questionnaire and community engagement
We need you to take part. A questionnaire together with community engagement will give you the opportunity to have your say; we aim to launch it in mid to late September. At the same time, we will contact community groups, organisations and businesses in both villages. Once all the data has been collated and analysed, a further round of consultation will take place via exhibitions, road shows, and talks.

The Neighbourhood Plan will have no standing unless we can show that people have been involved in putting it together. Therefore gathering information and giving feedback forms a major part of the process. It is vital that as many people as possible take part. Please fill in and return the questionnaire when it arrives on your doorstep, and encourage others to do the same.
Follow and contact us
Meanwhile, for further information and to add your support, see reptonvillage.org.uk, follow us on Twitter @reptonplan or Facebook, or contact us .


Repton Village & History

Repton Rags
We had originally planned a meet on the 31st July, but had to cancel due to holidays and other commitments. In August we will meet as usual at 6.30 pm.

Even if you haven't been before, if you fancy coming along, please do. If you are aged between 7 and 14, we meet at the Den, and will be playing games or just chatting with friends. Do come along and we'll have some fun.
Julie Groom

     Repton Rags

Boys & girls aged 7 to 14
Fun and games, indoors and out,
and plenty of time to chat with your friends

Fridays 14th & 28th August
6.30 to 8 pm at the Den      £1 a head


More info from Julie Groom, 0797 4998852, or .

Come along and have fun!

Sing The Messiah!
Repton School Music Society, MusSoc, invite you to join them this autumn to rehearse and sing in a performance of Handel's 'Messiah', under the direction of John Bowley, the Director of Music, on Sunday 29th November. Messiah is the best known and loved of all oratorios, and this promises to be an exciting performance with outstanding soloists, although their names are still under wraps.

Rehearsals, Thursday evenings from 10th September, 6.30 pm in Pears School

The choir is made up of members of the village, staff, pupils, their parents and friends. If you are interested in joining in or would like further information, please contact Rosie Carpenter on 702370. There are no auditions, but an ability to read music is essential. The cost of £10 is payable on registration. Scores will be provided, and practice cds and downloads are available. See you there!


Scouts
Peak 2015 was attended by 3,000 Scouts and Explorers from as far afield as Australia, Egypt, Malta, Norway and USA. 12 Scouts from Repton formed part of the Jurassic Sub-Camp with Scouts and Guides from Scotland, Denmark, Norway and a large contingent from Derbyshire. We were lucky enough to experience camping in the grounds of Chatsworth House, and kept constantly busy with 65 different activities plus bands and other entertainment in the evenings.

If this were not enough, several Scouts are planning to do a two-day expedition in August for their Expedition Challenge badge. This requires them to plan a route and their food, pack all their gear into rucksacks and walk with all their camping gear. They also need to complete a project and are currently debating what to do and where to go. Pretty exhausting for what should be a summer break!

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


Summer Play provided by Repton Parish Council
Come along to the Mitre Field for a great time! The activities are all free of charge for local young people. Just turn up on the day, but do wear suitable clothing and footwear.
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!


ngs Open Garden, Sunday 23rd August, 1.30 - 5.30 pm
Wendy and Stephen Longden, Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street, Repton
A plant lover's garden with glorious views on a sloping 2½ acre site that has been developed organically for year round interest. On lower levels herbaceous borders are arranged informally. Mixed woodland and a grassed labyrinth lead naturally into fruit, vegetable and herb potager with meadows beyond.

Perennials and grasses for sale. Home-made teas to fund a Baptismal jug for St Wystan's Church. Entry £3. Do come.


Repton Lunch Club and Drop-In
The Lunch Club provides home-cooked lunches for senior citizens living alone. Every Friday up to 23 regular members meet in a friendly environment at the Community Centre in Fisher Close for a two course meal followed by tea or coffee.

Meals are provided by a team of excellent volunteer cooks, a further group of volunteers serve the food and clear it away, another group wash and clean up. Finally, those who need transport are brought and taken home by volunteer drivers, either after lunch or after the Drop-In.

We are extremely grateful to all our volunteers who help us in any way.

We are looking for extra volunteer drivers to cover when a regular driver is off. If there is anyone who would be happy to join the list, please get in touch with Kiki Muir on 702350. Contact her also for further information or any other matter concerning the Repton Lunch Club.

The Drop-In hour is available to all, both those who would like to stay on after lunch and also to anyone who drops in for a social and chat. We play word games and bingo, share experiences and listen to invited speakers. These are mostly local people who come to talk on a variety of subjects, often related to travels they have been on, interesting experiences or skills they are happy to share. Visiting speakers are warmly welcomed and their talks and slide shows are much enjoyed.

We are always looking to widen the range of people we can call on to come for half an hour or so to talk to us. If you think this is something you could do occasionally, it would be very much appreciated. Please phone Maggie Tennant on 704590 or Elaine Fisher on 702322.


Royal British Legion in Repton
George Elliott has recently taken over from Tom Hyde as Chairman of the Legion in Repton. Contact him on 01283 224444.


Repton Village Society
Our visit to the garden festival at Arley Hall was much liked, so much so that many who went have requested a repeat visit in 2016. A provisional date has been set, Saturday 25th June.

Christine Gregory, our speaker in July, gave a superb talk on 'A River in Time', based on her book about the river Bradford. She traced the history of the river and its influence on the wildlife that lived alongside or in it, and also outlined the lives of those who lived and worked along its course. Her concern about the well-being of this stretch of water came across clearly. Both the book and her talk contained high quality images and artwork. She brought several copies of the book with her and all were sold, with the profits going into a fund to preserve the river and other nearby watercourses.

At our next meeting on Thursday 3rd September, Tim Skelton will give a talk on 'Lutyens and the Great War'. Tim is the co-author of a book of the same title. Not only did Sir Edwin Lutyens design a notable series of Arts and Craft houses at the beginning of the twentieth century (one of them being Easton House at the end of the Pastures in Repton) but he was also responsible for a large body of work to commemorate the dead of the Great War. His most famous works are the Cenotaph in Whitehall and the Memorial to the Missing of the Somme at Thiepval, but he was also responsible for over fifty war memorials at home and abroad and around 130 war cemeteries on the Western Front. The nearest to Repton is the Midland War Memorial next to the Midland Hotel in Derby.
Alan Webster, 01283 701838


Repton Village History Group
In July, 15 folk visited the church of the Holy Angels at Hoar Cross. The church is very 'High Anglican', in fact it describes itself as Anglo-Catholic. Completed in 1876 by the Honorable Emily Meynell Ingram as a memorial to her husband, it sits on a wooded ridge close by Hoar Cross Hall, overlooking the local countryside. It is built in a very traditional style, but because it is relatively young, its fabric is in immaculate condition and presents an idea of what many of our much older churches might once have looked like. John Betjeman described it as 'great architecture; original, well massed, well sited, well detailed; very English'.

Beautifully detailed and elaborate inside, it has a wonderful set of carvings of the stations of the cross, an organ that was originally built for Bangor Cathedral in 1779, and six heavy bells. Our guide, aged 97, provided an excellent tour and was supported by other members of the church who provided very welcome tea and biscuits. Our thanks go to John Kidd who coordinated the visit for the group.

In August we are to visit Stoneywell, a new National Trust property in Leicestershire. Please contact 01283 702448 or rvhg@reptonvillage.org.uk for more information.
Andy Austen


Repton W.I.
At our July meeting we were pleased to welcome five visitors and were delighted that three of them joined as members.

Two Repton History Walks were held in July. Each sold out. There is one more on 13th September, with places still available. With the help of the History Group, we will have raised over £700 towards the village hall appeal.

Speaker Kevin Banton showcased a wonderful array of feeding devices to encourage birds into our gardens. He told us all about the differing calorific values of various seeds and nuts, suggested where to put them in the garden - as location is important - and reminded us that birds need water all through the year. It was a very lively talk, with lots of questions from members.

We were invited to sign up for a trip to Burghley House, a day of flowers and chocolate at Wyaston, and a tour of the Royal Crown Derby factory with a cream tea to follow.

Members were reminded that the August meeting which will be a Garden Party at Jan Roberts' NGS garden on Tuesday 11th August at 2.30 pm.
Joan Paulson


Yard Sale at 2, 3 & 5 Monsom Lane, Saturday 15th August from 10 am
A reminder that we are looking for anything saleable - including bric-a-brac, linens and small furniture. All proceeds will go to Repton Royal British Legion, Repton United Reformed Church, and the Nightingale Macmillan Unit at the Royal Derby Hospital, so please come and support!

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


Repton Village Show, Saturday 5th September
With the show still a month away, you have plenty of time to practise baking the Cornish Sticky cake. The recipe proved controversial amongst the committee: there are more ingredients than in most recipes we provide, but the sheer joy of eating the cake won through.

The second cake category is a more traditional jam-filled Victoria Sponge - no cream fillings please! The recipes for this can be deceptively simple.

The young baker class calls for three pieces from a tray bake. The actual recipe used can be from any cake, cereal, biscuit or pastry recipe, so there is lots of scope for young bakers to display their skill and creativity.

As the weathermen continue to predict a BBQ summer, keep one eye on the flowers and the other on the vegetable patch. There should be plenty of opportunities to win a rosette for a flower, fruit or vegetable. The '1 vegetable and 1 bloom' category - class 16 - gives a lot scope to the creative gardener and often has interesting exhibits.

With the junior section containing a wide array of cookery, photography and creative classes, the village show should be a fun, friendly event that brings people together in the spirit of friendly competition.

There will be spare copies of the schedule in Repton Post Office or it can be found online on the village website at reptonvillage.org.uk.
Tips for showing fruits
  1. Count the number carefully. It is surprisingly common for an exhibitor to miscount and put 11 or 13 fruits on show rather than the required 12.
  2. Uniformity is very important. Try to choose specimens that are as alike as possible.
  3. The fruit entered should still have part of the stalk attached. Raspberries should still have their hull.
  4. Fruit such as grapes, plums, bullaces and damsons should have their bloom intact.
  5. Any nuts, including walnuts, should be of a good size for the cultivar, with clean shells and a plump kernel filling the cavities.

Farewell to Angela and Terry
Many will be sorry to see the departure of Angela and Terry Tunnicliffe, who leave their home in Milton Road at the beginning of this month.

Terry has been a part of Repton since the 1960s, when he worked a bread delivery round for the coop, well before he brought Angela here as a good place to bring up their children.

They are kindness itself. If "the growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts", both have done far more than their share. In retirement Terry took on for 10 years the treasurership of the Evergreens, and acquired a legion of elderly fans who called on him to drive them to the hospital, the shops or the airport, and do odd jobs.

Angela has long suffered from ill health, so they are moving to a retirement bungalow in Findern. We wish them well.


Repton Road Club
If you've been inspired by the Tour de France throughout July, then take to the slightly less mountainous roads of South Derbyshire with Repton Road Club. The club stages rides on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings. See reptonroadclub.com for details of start times and routes. You'll also find details of the Sunday rides which include one longer outing each month. All abilities welcome, there is no joining fee, and you can also introduce yourself at The Red Lion, every third Monday in the month, after 8 pm. For further details, contact Neil on 703363.


Repton Hash House Harriers ~ August Bank Holiday Hash
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. Our next Hash is on the August Bank Holiday, provisionally set for Saturday 29th, starting at the Bulls Head at 6 pm. Find us on Facebook or feel free to contact David on 07891 391351, or . On On!


Repton Open Gardens 2015 ~ Prize Draw Winners
Donor   Winner
Gibson Technology Limited Weber One-Touch Barbeque Bordoli
Anon Wine Treasure Chest Lloyd
Bluebell Nurseries Plant Hyde
Bulls Head £40 Voucher Shone
Hairs & Graces Bottle of Whisky Perks
Jaipur Restaurant £20 Voucher Micklewright
Molson Coors Hamper of Ale and Lager Chilton
Mount Pleasant Inn 6 Bottles of Red Wine Finch
Mulberry Beauty Salon £20 Voucher - Beauty Treatment John / Chestnut way
Redshaws Butchers £20 Meat Voucher Webster
Repton Post Office Bottle of Wine Tennant
Repton School Shop Large Teddy Bear Roberts
Repton Tea Rooms Cream Tea for Two Lee
Samaras Hair Beauty 2 Bottles of Wine Aishford
Spar Shop Biscuits / Chocolates Walsh
Toons Nurseries Plant Greenhowe

Very many thanks to everyone who donated prizes, or sold or bought tickets



Repton Parish Council
The New Parish Council: Following May's uncontested Parish Council elections and the subsequent co-option of a further three Councillors there are now a total of nine members. Councillors McArdle (chairman), Shortt and Thompson (joint vice-chairmen), McGahan and Perks served on the previous Parish Council and are joined by Councillors Skeith, Rainey, Coston and Dale. Please contact any Councillor or the Parish Council office if you have a concern regarding local issues.

Summer Activities at The Mitre Field: Details of these fun activities, which are funded by the Parish Council and free for all local young people are above on page 18.

Derbyshire and Derby Minerals Local Plan: There is currently a rolling consultation to engage the wider community of Derbyshire in developing the vision, objectives and policies of the Minerals Local Plan. Derbyshire County Council will be sending a representative to our September meeting to outline the implications for this area and to be available for questions from both the Parish Council and members of the public. If you have any concerns this will be an ideal opportunity to voice them. Next meeting: Monday 14th September in Milton village hall; Parish Meeting at 7 pm, Parish Council Meeting at 7.30pm. All are welcome.
Susan Reilly, Clerk to the Council

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



Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.
At our July meeting, members participated in a Kurling evening. It was very competitive at times and great fun. Delicious refreshments were served by Eve Smith and Jane Mawson.

Members are reminded about our social outing to Denby Pottery on Wednesday 19th August. The tour commences at 10.30 and is followed by lunch in the restaurant.

Next meeting: On Wednesday 16th September Liz Wibberley will bring along and demonstrate samples of her beautiful craftwork. This will be a 'hands on' evening for members with refreshments served by Sue Carey and Avril Skipper. Visitors are welcome as always - 7.30 pm in Milton village hall.


Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney Sports Club Annual Cricket Match & Sports Day, Sunday 30th August
All villagers will be welcome to come along to the recreation field from 12 pm to participate in Newton Solney Sports day. The day will include the annual inter pub cricket match, a rounders match, fun races for all the family, kids' entertainment, food, drink and much more. Team sheets for the cricket match are in the pubs and players are requested to sign up. See newtonsolneyevents.co.uk and posters around the village for further information.
Angus Falconer
Newton Solney Horticultural Show, Saturday 5th September
We really welcome your support for Newton Solney Open Fruit, Flower, Vegetable and Craft Show, a traditional village show where everyone is most welcome to exhibit. It takes place in the village hall, and is open to the public from 3 pm.

Entries must be received by 11.45 am and staged by 12 noon. The presentation of prizes at 5 pm will be followed by an auction and then the prize draw. If you would like a schedule please contact Chris Freestone on 701147.


St Mary's Social Events
Our Harvest Lunch, this year on Sunday 27th September, is always a popular event. Details are on page 11. We would much appreciate donations of raffle prizes and desserts. Please contact Hazel Ward on 701244.

We are also holding a Bangers 'n Booze evening on Saturday 10th October. Please put the date in your diary and look out for the details in the next Parish Magazine.


Newton Solney Tuesday Club
Instead of a speaker for our last meeting before the summer break, we had a social afternoon with a Bring & Buy of cakes and produce from members' gardens, with the money raised going into club funds. This was followed by a very competitive game of 'kurling' with eight pairs vying for the top score.

There will be no meeting in August, but Jane has organised Tea at the Newton Park for the 18th, 3.30 for 4 pm. The cost will be £7.50, payable on the day.

Tuesday 1st September: 2.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall

A business meeting followed by a talk by Graham Vale, Chairman of the East Midlands Aeropark.

Tuesday 15th September: A trip to Chesterfield We leave the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 am and return to Newton by about 3 pm. Cost £10. Please contact Jane, our Secretary, on 01283 564520 for further information or to book a trip.
Rachel Freeman, Chairman


Newton Solney W.I.
At the July meeting, members enjoyed Audrey Hall's detailed and entertaining description of her trip on her boat, Lente, via the canal network, from her home in Alrewas to London.

There is no meeting in August, but NS members will be attending a summer social, and also enjoying a walk around Melbourne, with some well earned lunch followed by a guided tour of Melbourne Hall.

The September meeting on Tuesday 8th at 7.30 in the village hall will include a talk about Teddy Bears by Linda Collison and Isobel. Tea hostesses will be Marion Cooper and Sue Ellis, who will also be providing flowers.
The W.I. celebrates 100 years
The Women's Institute arrived in the UK back in 1915, holding its first meeting on Anglesey, and this year sees W.I.s all over the country holding a variety of events to celebrate the centenary.

Here in Newton Solney we are hosting an afternoon cream tea together with an exhibition of our old photographs and memorabilia. This will be linked with more up to date features to show how we have changed over the decades to become the vibrant modern organization of today. Visitors and members, past and present, will all be made most welcome on Saturday 12th September at 2 pm in the village hall.

Newton Solney has a very active group of over forty members, who enjoy regular monthly meetings with varied and interesting speakers. We like nothing better than a good social event, especially if it includes a visit to a place of interest and is rounded off with good food and a glass of wine.

An important part of Newton Solney W.I. is our commitment to supporting our local community. Members can usually be found at village events such as bonfire night, the village cricket match and Christmas market, putting their catering skills to good use.

Last year we raised enough money to provide two new picnic tables on the playing fields, and this year our focus is to raise much needed funds for the village hall. Last year alone we donated £2,500 to help various projects in Newton Solney.

We welcome and continue to attract new members. We are justifiably proud of our achievements which are only made possible by the active support of all our members and friends in the village.


Willington Surgery

Staff Changes
Sadly, Dr Hands will be retiring at the end of October after more than 40 years' service to the local community. However, we were delighted when Dr Vivien Makava, already known to many of you, agreed to join the partnership in April.
Electronic Prescriptions
Earlier in the year we became one of the first surgeries to move to the national electronic prescribing service, which is a more secure way of sending prescriptions directly from the surgery to the pharmacy you nominate. (We neither endorses nor advocate any pharmacy service, and are unable to advise on your choice.)

Once you have made your nomination, it will remain in place until you tell us otherwise. However, there are a few drugs such as controlled drugs that GPs cannot prescribe electronically. The service may not be suitable if you don't collect prescriptions very often or if you use several pharmacies.
Continuity of Care
We receive many enquiries about why patients can't see the GP of their choice.

For personal and family reasons, all our doctors work part-time. Even so, the pressure of paperwork and other changes to the contracted services mean that they are working late into the evening and on their days off.

Over the last 10 years, Primary Care has changed massively, and the additional pressures are making the profession unattractive to potential GPs. For some months now we have been advertising for another doctor, but so far we have received no satisfactory applications.

Whilst Dr Saunders has been on maternity leave, we have been supported by two locums, Dr Rajendran and Dr Vyas, to whom we are very grateful, as locums are like gold dust too. However, Dr Vyas will be taking up a partnership at her present surgery at the beginning of August, and we are having difficulty in replacing her.

All this makes it very difficult to provide the continuity of care patients ask for.

Looking ahead, things may not be easy, but we have a good team who will try their best to help and support. We hope that patients will consider self-care before just picking up the phone to the GP. In reception we do have some guidance on self-help for minor ailments. Please ask for a copy and bear with us during this difficult time.

Our Willington Pharmacist, Sally, is also very supportive and happy to discuss minor ailments. If needs be, Sally will send patients on to us if the problem is felt to need a GP's advice.
Patients' Data
To record and maintain your data within the surgery we use SystmOne; Systmonline allows you to book appointments and request prescriptions online. Using this system we are working towards your being able to view more detailed records. Currently you can view your medications, allergies, adverse reactions and basic details such as name, date of birth and address.

To sign up for SystmOnline please ask at reception. You will be expected to provide photographic evidence of identity which will enable us to issue you with log-in and password details.
Named Accountable General Practitioner
By the end of March 2016, all patients should be aware of their 'Accountable GP. If you don't know already, please ask at reception. Their names are also given on repeat prescription lists. You will still have a choice of which GP you would like to see if they are available; it doesn't have to be your Accountable GP.
Travel Vaccinations
If you may need travel vaccinations for your holiday, please don't leave it too late. The more notice we have the better. Nurses have to check each request as guidance changes from time to time. Certain vaccines have to be ordered in and this too takes time. Some vaccines take weeks to have the desired effect.
Shingles and Flu Vaccination
Year 2 of the shingles vaccination programme ends on 31st August, so there is still time to receive the vaccination for patients born between the following dates:
2.9.1943 - 1.9.1944   i.e. 70 as of 1st Sept 2014
2.9.1935 - 1.9.1936   i.e. 78 as of 1st Sept 2014
2.9.1934 - 1.9.1935   i.e. 79 as of 1st Sept 2014
Patients will need to check with the nurse as to whether any condition or medication might prevent them from having the shingles vaccine.

We have yet to receive confirmation of the cohort dates of patients to be called from September this year, when we will also be calling patients in for influenza clinics.
Blood Tests
Many practices have stopped this service as funding has been withdrawn. The service we provide is subsidised by the practice as we realise how helpful patients find it. Please bear this in mind if there is a delay. If no suitable appointments are available, patients are welcome to take the test request to a hospital. If, however, the request was initiated by a hospital, please use the hospital phlebotomy clinic. Our appointments are for blood tests initiated by our doctors or nurses. Our reception team can give you details of the other clinics available.
Summary
Willington Surgery, along with many other surgeries, is facing significant challenges and financial cutbacks, most of which stem from Government initiatives. If you notice a change to the service, please tell your local MP, Heather Wheeler. Doctors and staff at Willington Surgery are committed to maintaining the best possible service under increasingly difficult circumstances.
Louise Scheck, Practice Manager


South Derbyshire

What's On in South Derbyshire and The National Forest
If you haven't already done so, do download the latest edition of 'What's On' from the SDDC website - search for 'What's On in South Derbyshire' - or collect it from Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre at Sharpe's Pottery. The current issue runs through to the end of October and contains hundreds of events, many free or at very low cost. Sadly their publishing date doesn't match ours, and we are always a month behind, but there is still plenty to find including all the usual walks, talks, discoveries and visits for adults, and lots of fun stuff for children. Who can resist the UK Festival of Fireworks, Friction Fire Lighting, or National Toilet Paper Day!


Mobile Library
Tuesday 18th August, 10.15 am - 1 pm
The mobile library now operates a four-weekly (not monthly) timetable, stopping at Repton village hall. There are no other calls along the way, and it doesn't visit Foremark, Milton or Newton Solney. Repton is the first stop of the day; from us the van drives on to Aston on Trent, so don't turn up late!

The van operates from Long Eaton. If you need to contact them, call 01629 531398. To contact the van, call 0780 904 4405.

Derbyshire operates a home library service for the genuinely housebound who have no one to visit the library for them. If you think you might qualify, ring Kirsty on 01629 539 140 to arrange for your needs to be assessed.


Environment Matters

A last refuge for wild flowers
More than 700 species of wild plants, almost half the native flora of the British Isles, are to be found on roadside verges. Many plants once found in meadows now thrive only beside roads, where they provide essential habitat for insects. However, one in ten of them is at risk of extinction, in part because councils have been cutting verges too early: local authorities argue that shorter verges are safer for drivers and pedestrians.

Plantlife says that more than 97% of English meadows have been destroyed since the 1930s, and that most of our farmland is now hostile to many of our wild plants and other wildlife due to the loss of wild flower meadows and the use of herbicides and fertilisers. Hence roadside verges are often the last refuge for wild flowers and the wildlife that depends on them. They also act as wildlife corridors and provide pollen and nectar for bees, butterflies and moths.

But many of Britain's road verges are being cut down in full flower, before they have had the chance to set seed, and Plantlife is calling on members of the public to sign an online petition urging councils to do more to enhance the wildlife value of road verges. In particular, plants should be allowed to complete their full life cycle, to grow, flower and set seed, allowing them to return over time as they spread naturally.

Safety must inevitably come first, but with the size of most road verges, there should be no conflict between this and conservation. Some verges do need cutting regularly to maintain clear lines of visibility, but for many, a regular late summer cut and removing the mowings will keep the verge open, safe and thriving.

If we just give them a chance, wildflowers can return. How wonderful that would be! Find the petition at plantlife.org.uk.


You and your Pet

The Dog that's on Viagra
Buster, a springer spaniel, came to us as an emergency: he was choking and coughing up blood, his heart rate was increased, he had a murmur on his heart, and he was in obvious distress.

Coughing blood is not a common presentation for pets; severe pneumonia, poisoning and lungworm were our concerns. An ultrasound scan of Buster's heart and chest x-rays confirmed the likely diagnosis to be lungworm - Angiostrongylus vasorum.

Lungworm is a new disease that affects dogs and foxes. It came over from the continent several years ago and has gradually spread north. Unfortunately it has now extended to our region. An infected animal will pass larvae in its faeces which then infect slugs and snails. Dogs become infected by ingesting slugs or snails, either deliberately, on a stick / garden toy / blade of grass, or in a puddle of water. Once inside a dog the larvae migrate to the heart and blood vessels in the lungs causing severe damage. Signs of infection include changes in behaviour, bleeding, lethargy, coughing and tiring easily.

So why Viagra? Adult lungworms in the blood vessels cause increased blood pressure. Viagra or Sildenafil is used in animals (and humans) to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (as well as its more common use!) which reduces the backward strain on the heart, preventing any lasting cardiac changes. Other treatment for Buster included medication to kill the worms and a potent anti-inflammatory to stop anaphylaxis as the worms died.

We are pleased to report that Buster is back to full health, but want to highlight the dangers unfortunately lurking in your back garden. Lungworm can be prevented.

For more information on protecting your pets' individual needs, please contact your vet.
Lucy Travers BVSc MRCVS, Beech Vets, Willington


Neighbourhood Watch

Remember: Always look out for your elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

Adrian Gillham, Chairman, Repton Neighbourhood Watch, 703340
Police non-emergency, 101. Victim Support, 01332 349956.
Anti-Social Behaviour hotline, 01283 595 795.
Contact crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


Gardening Notes

At this time of year, heed the old saying 'One year's seeds, seven years' weeds'. Even if you can't remove weeds completely, it is worth removing any weed flowers that have gone to seed. Some garden plants also set a lot of seed; I find Welsh poppies a bit of a nuisance, so once the first flush is over I cut the plants almost to the ground to remove as many of the seed heads as possible.

If you have grown any hardy annuals, it is well worth dead heading them to encourage a second crop of flowers; it is best to cut them down before they have finished flowering. Sweet peas should be picked once a week.

By August the nutrients in compost in pots and containers is usually exhausted so feed the plants weekly with tomato feed or apply a general fertiliser.

August is a good month to enjoy your own vegetables; pick them young and small, and make sure you always eat the best of your crop - there is often a surplus.

A number of people have mentioned the failure of their leek crops recently. The most likely cause is the allium leaf miner, first detected in Britain in Wolverhampton in 2002. Since then it has spread and become a problem for many allium growers in central and south-eastern England. The larvae bore into the stems and bulbs with devastating consequences. Affected plants often develop secondary infections and rot. Leeks, onions, chives, shallots and garlic can all be affected but we have only experienced damage to leeks so far.

Infestations are initiated by the adult fly which is greyish brown and three millimetres long. Before laying eggs, the female feeds by puncturing the leaves and sucking up the exuding sap. This causes distinctive lines of white dots on the foliage, but the most obvious signs of a problem appear when rot sets in due to secondary infections from fungi and bacteria that develop in the damaged tissues. On closer inspection, cylindrical brown pupae are likely to be found embedded in the stems and bulbs.

Understanding the life cycle of this pest will significantly help to reduce the damage. Allium leaf miner has two generations a year. First generation females lay eggs on the stem or base of a leaf during March and April. The second generation repeats the process from late September to November. This generation is usually the more damaging. Pupae from this second generation are known to over-winter in the soil. The adult can fly for about a mile but normally only travels shorter distances. It is attracted to onion plants by scent. When the leeks have been infested, there is no treatment for them, chemical or otherwise. Remove and destroy all parts of the infected plants.

So treatment is a matter of prevention, and the most obvious method is to prevent the flies laying eggs by covering the crop with insect proof mesh or fleece during the two risk periods.

Leeks are at risk from mid-September to mid-October so make sure you have covers ready. We have made some from fine Enviromesh over plastic hoops. Last year we just draped fleece loosely over the plants. It was not entirely effective but it was quick and easy and did prevent much damage.

Finally, if you are going on holiday try to include a trip to a garden.
Pauline Little