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

Hope 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 Coffee Morning, Saturday 10th October at 10.30 am SHELL Group for young people aged 7+ Christmas Mini Market: Saturday 14th November Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Jacob John and Joseph James Dutton Francesca Beau Walklate Marriages Katharine Goring and James Minards Emily Bird and James Woodgate Rebekah Wright and Matthew Saunders Stacey Lowe and Ian Rowett Katherine Massey and Adam Keenan Funerals and Burial of Ashes Betty Prince Maurice Geoffrey Boddice Obituaries Margaret Venables Maurice Geoffrey Boddice The Memorial Book Derby Diocese and the wider Church Derby Cathedral reopens after refit Repton Benefice Annual Service of Commemoration Groups St Wystan's News Sunday Club St Wystan's History Anglo-Saxon Church Architecture Local Diary Event Details Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th October Repton School Concert: Agata Policinska, violin, Luis Parés, piano, Wednesday 7th October Milton Family Harvest Supper, Friday 9th October Newton Solney Big Banger Bash, Saturday 10th October Milton Lunch Club, Thursday 15th October Teatime with ACWW, Thursday 15th October Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 21st October A Concert of Italian, Spanish & Latin American Music, Thursday 22nd October Messy Church - The Great Escape, Sunday 25th October 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 . . . In Memoriam: Frederick Bamford Repton Village Hall Appeal The Future of Milton and Repton Repton Neighbourhood Development Plan Repton Village and History Sale of Work & Fun Day, Saturday 7th November Repton Rags, Fridays 9th and 23rd October Rainbows and Brownies need help Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane Christmas Tree Festival, Friday 4th - Sunday 6th December Repton Scouts at Alton Towers Volunteering: Could it be you? Congratulations to Paul and Sam Martin Songs of Praise from Repton Repton Village History Group Repton Village Society The Dales Repton W.I. Repton Village Show 2015 - Results Mobile Library, Tuesday 13th October Thank you: Yard Sale at Monsom Lane Happy Retirement to Sarah! Repton Quiz Evening cancelled Repton Parish Council Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton W.I. Celebrations at Foremarke Hall Newton Solney Village Matters The W.I. celebrates 100 years Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council News Willington Surgery Seasonal Flu Vaccination Dr. Hands retires Environment Matters Clean for the Queen You and your Pet Fireworks and Stressed Pets Neighbourhood Watch Trick or Treat Fireworks Gardening Notes

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Hope

As I write, Jeremy Corbyn is still big news, but the debate over the future direction of the Labour party has changed from the manner of his election to a debate about what politics is really for. Inspiring a whole new generation of Labour voters is hardly the same as inspiring the nation, but the speed with which Corbyn achieved the former makes the latter seem feasible.

The reason that Corbyn leapt to power is hope: he offered hope of a real change in the power structure of the government, belief that his party will no longer pose as a paler but rather less powerful party than the Conservatives. It is the stirring of a long-buried belief that things can actually be changed for the better. It is what Tony Blair offered in 1997, and what Margaret Thatcher offered in1979.

Whoever believes that politics and religion don't mix should think again: hope is at the very heart of the Christian faith: the hope that we can achieve a society which has no need of foodbanks, which offers job security for all, in which affordable housing will be available for all, in which university education is available free to all who will benefit from it.

Hope is the glorious common ground between politics and religion: "Your Kingdom come!" is an invitation to support one another to reach that goal. Politics without faith is unlikely to achieve much; the two are bound together. Ezekiel, addressing an Israel that had threatened to divide itself into two opposing factions, took a stick and snapped it against the altar. He then bound two sticks together, rapped them against the altar, and they remained united. In unity there is strength. Read the story for yourselves in Ezekiel chapter 37.

We live in an age of transition. During the recession, the most vulnerable in our society have paid the highest cost; wealth is concentrated in the hands of the few. Benefit claimants are vilified while large corporations avoid paying tax. The cultural and economic rights of migrants and asylum seekers have been whittled away. We are in danger of forgetting the Magna Carta of prophetic writing in the book of Micah: "What does the Lord require of you but to deal justly, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

We need to aspire to live in tune with the teachings of Jesus - a hope that we will live God-centred and not self-centred lives.

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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

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Coffee Morning, Saturday 10th October at 10.30 am

A time to have coffee with friends, stock up with home-made cakes and marmalade, and to browse the Webb Ivory and Phoenix cards and wrapping paper on sale. Come and join us!

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SHELL Group for young people aged 7+

. . . meets on Mondays 5th, 12th and 19th October from 6.30 - 7.30 pm. Activities this month include decorating cakes, 'gadget night' and paper games. New members are always welcome.

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A date for your diary

Christmas Mini Market: Saturday 14th November, 10.30 am - noon.

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Baptisms

Jacob John and Joseph James Dutton, sons of Laura and Philip Dutton of 15 Monsom Lane, Repton, were baptised at St Wystan's Church on Sunday 30th August.

Francesca Beau Walklate, daughter of Claire and Peter Walklate of 52 Pinfold Close, Repton, was baptised at St Wystan's Church on Sunday 13th September.

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Marriages

Katharine Goring and James Minards of 6 The Brache, Maulden, Bedfordshire, were married at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney on Friday 28th August.

Emily Bird and James Woodgate of 2 Chellaston Cottages, Weston-on-Trent, were married at St Saviour's Church, Foremark, on Saturday 29th August.

Rebekah Wright and Matthew Saunders of 11a Springfield Road, Repton, were married at St Wystan's Church on Saturday 29th August.

Stacey Lowe and Ian Rowett of 136 Main Street, Repton, were married at St Wystan's Church on Saturday 5th September.

Katherine Massey and Adam Keenan of 570 Burton Road, Midway, Swadlincote, were married at St Wystan's Church, Repton, on Saturday 19th September.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Betty Prince of Askew Grove, Repton, died on Thursday 6th August aged 78. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 24th August was followed by cremation. Her ashes are to be interred at Monsom Lane Cemetery along with those of her husband, Raymond, who died in July 2010.

Maurice Geoffrey Boddice, formerly of Pinfold Lane, died at Bakewell Cottage Nursing Home on Wednesday 2nd September aged 83. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 16th September was followed by cremation.

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Obituaries

Margaret Venables
20th December 1923 - 8th August 2015

Margaret was brought up as an only child as two brothers had died in infancy. Her parents were farmers near Hanbury, and from an early age she was involved in helping with work on the farm. She went to primary school at Rangemore, walking in all weathers the 2 to 3 miles there and back every day, and then on to Uttoxeter Girls School, cycling to Sudbury and back to catch the train, but still taking her turn on the farm. It was a hard life.

Whilst at Rangemore School, she had met Peter Venables - he also lived in Hanbury - and in 1946 they married. Their son, Keith, was born in 1948, and in 1949 they moved to Pinfold Lane in Repton. They enjoyed so much together, whether National Heritage, gardening, countryside, or exciting but often unproductive fishing expeditions. Both Margaret's parents had died quite soon after the move to Repton.

Peter worked for British Rail in Derby, and for a short time Margaret did so too, before she moved on to become the receptionist to Thurston Ireland, a local dentist. In this role she was calm, practical and efficient, but above all, reassuring. Following Thurston's death, Margaret and Peter moved into the converted surgery building, now 5 Mitre Drive, in the early 1970s. They were very happy there. Peter had to retire following a heart attack, but they continued to enjoy holidays and their beloved garden.

However, in 1992 Peter suffered a fatal heart attack. Although very upset, Margaret continued to be fully involved in the life of the village and particularly the church, where both Peter and Keith had been choristers. She helped in many practical ways, led the Mothers Union for many years, was a member of the W.I., Young Wives and other organisations, and continued her lifelong friendships in the village and beyond.

She was very proud of her family, and in return, in the last, difficult years of her life, she had wonderful support from them, allowing her to stay at home until the final weeks.

Margaret was a woman of great character and determination. At the same time she loved crosswords and reading and writing poetry. Kind and generous, devoted to her family and loved by her friends, she will be greatly missed.

Maurice Geoffrey Boddice
†  2nd September 2015

Born in Newhall, Maurice moved to Bretby where his father was to work as a farm labourer with his brothers Joe and David. He was very happy at the village school, and in later life never tired of visiting the old schoolhouse to reminisce.

After his first job, a paper round, Maurice moved into horticulture, working at Bretby Nurseries where he was famous for growing tomatoes. In the early 1950s he met Marjorie who had also found a job there on her return from London, where she had been working as a nannie. In 1956 they married at Repton and moved here to live. Their daughter, Clare, was born the following year. The last 25 years of his working life were spent at M&S in Burton.

Among Maurice's many interests were modern design, especially in furniture, technology and architecture, and he very much enjoyed his family, but he had no interest in sport, and was baffled as to why people get excited about 22 men kicking a ball about!

Unfortunately, Maurice was diagnosed with Alzheimers. For some time he was still able to enjoy trips around the countryside, but as his illness progressed, Maurice needed nursing care, and the family were fortunate to find a place at the Bakewell Cottage Nursing Home where he enjoyed excellent care for the last 18 months of his life.

Maurice was a gentle, kind and loving man who would help anyone. He will be much missed.

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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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Derby Diocese and the wider Church

Derby Cathedral reopens after refit

At the end of August, Derby Cathedral reopened to the public after a four month closure for refurbishments. As part of the first major work in 40 years, nearly £700,000 has been spent on new heating, lighting, electrics and paint. An additional £100,000 is being spent on work on the roof. The cathedral received £660,000 in grants from the government's World War One Heritage Fund and has raised the rest itself.

During the refurbishment programme, most services had to be moved, with midweek services held in the Chapel of St Mary on the Bridge and St Mary's Roman Catholic Church. It is thought to be the first time that Anglican cathedral services have ever been held in a Catholic church, and the cathedral is very grateful for the hospitality.

The present building dates from the 1720s but stands on the site of a Saxon church, and during the renovation a small part of the medieval building was discovered. This should be visible to the public in the near future.

A series of celebratory events will be held throughout the autumn, but take any opportunity to visit the cathedral and see what has been done. It is splendid.

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Repton Benefice

Annual Service of Commemoration
Sunday 1st November, 4 pm at St Wystan's Church

Each year at this time we hold a rather special service to give thanks for the lives of our loved ones who have died. The Feast of All Saints, followed immediately by All Souls Day, is a traditional time of remembrance, an opportunity for us all to gather together to remember, give thanks and acknowledge our feelings. It is something that brings us all together, for we have all lost loved ones.

This year our service will be at St Wystan's. As usual we will be sending invitations to those who have been recently bereaved, but everyone is most welcome, whether from our three parishes or from further afield. After the service there will be the chance for a cup of tea and a chat.

If you would like the names of your loved ones to be read out at the service, you will find lists at the back of our churches from 11th October. If you cannot get to a church and would like a name read out, please contact Rev'd Martin Flowerdew directly. We hope you will join with us and others in remembering our loved ones and giving thanks for their lives.

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Groups

Intercessory Prayer for Healing next meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 12th October.

The Bible Study Group studying the Acts of the Apostles meets on Thursday 15th October at 7.30 pm at 28 The Pastures. Please see Stephen Longden if you are interested in joining.

There is no service of Prayer for Christian Healing in October.

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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

St Wystan's History

Anglo-Saxon Church Architecture

Dating from the first half of the 8th century, St Wystan's Church crypt is of exceptional interest, and together with the 9th century chancel above, attracts tourists and tour groups from across the world, much as it might have done in the 9th century following the canonisation of Wystan.

Some of them will be using 'An Introduction to Anglo-Saxon Church Architecture & Anglo-Saxon Stone Sculpture', a new book by Guy Points. Scholarly and detailed, its references to St Wystan's are brief, but it does help you to read Anglo-Saxon buildings. The gazetteer section provides excellent examples of the features described.

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th October 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!

Repton School Concerts Society Agata Policinska, violin, Luis Parés, piano Wednesday 7th October at 7.45 pm in The Robert Beldam Hall Agata Policinska is an award-winning Polish violinist who has performed at important music festivals including the BBC Proms, and in venues such as the Wigmore Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. She is accompanied this evening by the Venezuelan pianist, Luis Parés, in a programme which will include music by Stravinsky, Poulenc and Beethoven. Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). Tickets for the whole season of 10 concerts cost £75. For further information or tickets contact 56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR. 01283 702550.

Family Harvest Supper Milton Village Hall, Friday 9th October at 7 pm Children are invited to bring along a mini harvest scarecrow for the display Entertainment by Harmony Plus - Music and Comedy Vegetarian option on request. Bring your own tipple. Booking Essential: for tickets (£8, under 12s £3) or to reserve a table, call Sue White, 01283 701978, or Polly Faulkner, 01283 703436

Big Banger Bash Newton Solney Village Hall, Saturday 10th October at 7.30 pm Sausage and Mash Supper with entertainment by international pianist Brian Hazelby Besides broadcasts and recordings, Brian's career has seen him perform with the Queen's Own Hussars Military Band in Germany, as band leader for Mecca Dancing in Birmingham, as a member of the John Barry Seven and as musical director in Sutton Coldfield where many famous stars appeared. Bring along your own drinks - wine glasses provided. Tickets £10 from Linda Williams, 701366, and Hazel Ward, 701244.

Milton Lunch Club Thursday 15th October, 12.30 pm in Milton Village Hall.   £5. Chicken casserole followed by apple pie and custard Contact Lynn, 704540, Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436 Everyone welcome wherever you live! If you need transport, let us know

Everyone very welcome, W.I. members AND non-members Teatime with ACWW Come and celebrate the International Day of Rural Women with tea and cakes Thursday 15th October, 2 - 4 pm at Spring Cottage, 15 Main Street, Repton Donations on the day

Books, Browse and Coffee Wednesday 21st October, 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 and loans free, otherwise 50p

The Burton Concert Band, Conductor David Haines Leader Kate Fox, Vocalist David Hemus with the Stephanie Parrott School of Dance A Concert of Italian, Spanish & Latin American Music Thursday 22nd October at 7.30 pm The Robert Beldam Hall, Repton Music School Tickets £10 including an interval Margarita from 01283 713735

Messy Church - The Great Escape Activities, Crafts and Sunday Tea for all the family New families are welcome St Wystan's Church, Sunday 25th October, 4 to 5.30 pm To find out more, contact Ruth Attwood on 702804 or . Everyone is welcome!

Repton Village Hall Appeal Repton Ghost Walks Fridays 30th October & 4th December 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 31st October, 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 . . .

There can be no clearer evidence of the appalling seriousness of the course set before this country than in two items of last week's intelligence - first, the immense demands made upon us financially through the Budget; and, secondly, the grave report of the general commanding in Gallipoli. We may hope and trust that a brighter dawn will soon be breaking, but at present the burden that we and our Allies must bear is one which must bring out all the virtues of our race in endurance, in sacrifice, and in constancy to the cause.

On Sunday, October 31st, we again ask for the alms of the congregation for the Bishop's appeal for the temporary Church at Clipstone Camp, where there are thousands of our Soldiers.

In Memoriam: Frederick Bamford, aged 21

A bright, cheerful and pleasant lad, for some years in service at Mr. Exham's - in every respect faithful, honest, and efficient - he joined the Army shortly after the outbreak of war and ultimately was sent to Gallipoli, there he laid down his life fighting bravely for his country. - R.I.P.

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Repton Village Hall Appeal

On Saturday 31st October there will be a Children's Halloween Party in the Village Hall. Come and join in the Halloween games and Halloween treasure hunt and enter the best fancy dress competition. Hot dogs, tricky treats and refreshments available. See the ad above.

There are two Repton Ghost Walks, with mince pies and warming refreshments, on Fridays 30th October and 4th December at 7.15 pm. These events are very popular, so please get in touch early, and make sure of your place. See the ad above.

We are beginning to plan events for next year and we are always looking for more ideas, and would also really like to hear from anyone who would be willing to help us or organise an event. Just ring Adrian on 01283 538222 or Carol, 01283 702410.

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Neighbourhood Development Plan for the Parish of Repton

The Future of Milton and Repton

With this month's Parish Magazine you should find, in a reply-paid envelope:

Two questionnaires;

A question and answer sheet with a Parish map overleaf;

An invitation to any (or all) of three drop-in events.

If they are missing, please

This is your chance to have a say in the future of our two villages. Responses are needed by the end of October. More copies of the questionnaire are available at Repton Post Office and at the drop-in events:

Repton village hall, Saturday 10th and Sunday 25th October, 2 - 4 pm
Milton village hall, Thursday 15th October, 7 - 9 pm

You can also complete the questionnaire online at reptonvillage.org.uk.

Everyone who lives in Milton or Repton can complete the survey, whatever your age - the more the better. If our Neighbourhood Development Plan is to have legal status, we need the involvement of as many people as possible.

Please, please, take a few minutes to think about what you like about our villages, and what you think are the important aspects to consider for the future. It really is important for the future of Repton, Milton and the Parish.

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Repton Village & History

Sale of Work & Fun Day
Saturday 7th November in the grounds and halls of Repton School

If you have lived in the village for some time you will already know about the joint effort that is involved in the Sale of Work, which aims to raise as much money as possible for local, national and international charities.

This year will see a number of new stalls including a specialist bookstall selling - at very keen prices! - brand-new books which have been nominated for literary prizes, including the Orwell Prize for non-fiction, side by side with activities from St Georges Park! So whether it's the ducking stool, the homemade Christmas puddings or the artisan jewellery and olive oils that take your fancy, we hope that you will come along and enjoy the day.

Where does the money go?

Last year more than £20,000 was raised as a result of the main event on the day, as well as the cabarets, dinners and auctions run by the boarding houses. 60% of that went to charities and organisations within a 10 mile radius of Repton, including St Wystan's Church, the Repton Scout Group, Repton Neighbourhood Help, Repton Casuals, Repton Village Hall, Repton Primary School and Newton Solney Infant School. We hope that each year the combined good work of the School and village can make a real difference to the excellent work they do.

How money is distributed

After the money is counted, there is a meeting of stallholders and pupils from the School. In the first instance, suggestions and requests for donations should be made to stall-holders or boarding house representatives. Alternatively, contact Dan Clark (the organiser at the School) by letter to the School or .

We need your help!

To raise such large sums requires a lot of hard work. Gifts and help in making items like cakes or craft work would be very much appreciated. The stalls below rely on your support, and the stallholders would greatly welcome gifts direct to them in Repton or to Pears School on the day.

Extra help is always useful, so anyone who is willing to be involved on the day should contact any stallholder, or e-mail .

Bottles and Jars

This very popular stall depends on you. We welcome any contributions of items such as home-made preserves, pickles and chutneys, and anything in a bottle or jar, savoury, sweet, scented or decorative. We also run a tombola, and would be equally delighted to receive donations of bottles and jars (full ones!) of any sort. Please contact , 703180.

Cakes and Toys

We welcome any home baking for this stall so please get cooking and phone Dan Clark, 559296.

Please drop them at Pears' School on Friday afternoon or Saturday morning.

Do come along this year and help raise a significant sum for charity whilst purchasing worthwhile items and having lots of fun.

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Repton Rags

It is with a bunch of mixed emotions that I am putting this article together.

RAGS started in 2012, and with the help and support of the parents, children, young people and South Derbyshire Village Games, it grew from strength to strength. We can look back on the trips we have made, the people who have come to visit to share their knowledge and experience, the fun we have had together, and remember what good times we have had. However, all of us who have dedicated our time and energy to running RAGS are now finding it difficult to commit to the group as much as we would like.

Without help, RAGS will close at the end of the year

RAGS has been a fantastic experience, and we feel sad that we cannot keep RAGS going, particularly as Repton will be left without a similar group for children.

Our current plan is to keep going to the end of the year, when we will either hand over to new volunteers or use the money in the bank account to organise a final event.

The best possible outcome would be that another set of parents comes forward to take over the organising and running of the group. You could run RAGS as often or as little as you like. In the past we have considered meeting just once a month; that would not be too onerous for someone to take on.

Meanwhile

. . . please look out for emails from week to week for upcoming events and dates. So far we have a trip to Betty's farm on the 20th November, and survival Dave is coming on 4th December. We still plan to meet on the other dates listed, provided we have enough adults to help run the sessions.

We would like to thank you all for your support over the last three and a bit years, and hope it has been as much fun for you as it has been for us.

Repton Rags Boys & girls aged 7 to 14 Fun and games, indoors and out, and plenty of time to chat with your friends Fridays 9th and 23rd October 6.30 to 8 pm at the Den      £1 a head More info from Julie Groom, 0797 4998852, or . Come along and have fun!

Rainbows and Brownies

. . . are both looking for help at meetings. It could be casual, or there is the opportunity to take a Girlguiding UK qualification. Please contact Carol Hickebottom on 703991 for further details

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Young Explorers
Thursday 29th October at The Den

During the half-term break, South Derbyshire Village Games, with the help of Repton Rags, is holding a Young Explorers Event at The Den on Mitre Drive. Come along anytime between 11 am and 1 pm, and have a go at following the map, finding the clues and answering the questions.

It costs just £1 per child to have a go, but do bring some extra change for the delicious cakes on our cake stall. For more information, look out for the posters which will go up soon around the village.

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Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane
		Team	Opponents
4th	10.30 am	Repton Red Lion	Kings Head
18th	2.00 pm	Repton Casuals U15	Marlborough Rovers
25th	10.30 am	Repton Casuals Youth	Ashby Ivanhoe

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Christmas Tree Festival
St Wystan's Church, Friday 4th - Sunday 6th December

This year our biennial Christmas Tree Festival is raising funds for the Repton Village Hall Appeal and for St Wystan's Church. Many organisations and groups in the village will be decorating trees, but we would very much like families to be part of the festival as well. Would you like to join in and decorate a tree? The theme is 'Carols and Christmas Songs' which should give plenty of scope for decorations with a difference.

Letters have already been sent to families, businesses and organisations who took part two years ago, but if you haven't heard, do let us know. And there is plenty of room for newcomers too. If you have any questions or requests, please get in touch.

So that we know how many trees to order, I would be grateful if you could contact me before the end of October. It would be lovely if you could join us.

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Repton Scouts at Alton Towers

Twenty Repton Scouts and Leaders joined others from all over the country at Alton Towers. We had exclusive use of Splash Landings in the evening, a great campsite on the lawns inside the main entrance, and in the morning the Scouts had been on Nemesis, Air and the Runaway Train several times before many of the public arrived. The Scouts had a great time and were still going strong when all the rides closed.

In October a team is entering the Kinder Challenge walk, and we'll be working towards the DIY badge, decorating the Den and hanging new curtains.

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

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Could it be you?

When you read requests for help, are you quite interested - but never quite interested enough? For myself, I've always been wary of how much time and effort volunteering will take up. So, as a volunteer with Repton Scouts I am writing about what it actually involves, in the hope that you may offer to help us.

Volunteering is easy, fun and flexible. How much time you give is up to you. Whether you help out once a fortnight, once a month, once a term, or just at special events or camps, there is bound to be a role you can play.

Repton Scouts have 62 members between 6 and 14. This year we have 14 Beavers, 24 Cubs and 24 Scouts, with both girls and boys. It's a great way for local children to have fun, make friends, get outdoors, express their creativity and experience the wider world. We have a lot of children on the waiting lists and it would be fantastic if we could get more leaders to enable them all to join.

I am a volunteer on the Executive Committee. This involves very little time and no training! We meet 3 or 4 times a year and try to keep meetings - in the early evening at the Red Lion - down to around an hour. We discuss activities the children will be doing, fundraisers, finances, and how to encourage new volunteers! Not demanding in any way. We are a friendly, relaxed bunch, and would love to have new members.

To be a helper, courses are not obligatory (although they may be fun), but to be a Leader or an Assistant Leader, you do need to attend some core training. This is often held in Willington or Newhall. There are several core courses, some of which can be done online. They are not demanding and cover subjects such as Safeguarding and First Aid.

With your support, we can give more young people the opportunity to try fun activities, learn new skills, make friends and have unique experiences that will equip them for life. If you are interested in joining us or have any questions, please get in touch. At the moment our Cub Leader, Jez, is in desperate need of an Assistant Leader. Could it be you? .

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Congratulations

. . . to father and son, Paul and Sam Martin of Pinfold Close, who in September represented Great Britain in in their respective age-groups at the World International Triathlon Union (ITU) Age-Group Championships in Chicago. Sam came in 73rd in 2 hours 16 minutes, and Paul 54th in 2 hours 19. Paul had qualified for the event at the Little Beaver Triathlon at Belvoir Castle in May, coming third in his 50-54 section, and at the Dambuster Triathlon at Rutland Water in June, Sam picked up the fourth qualifying spot for the 20-24 age-group.

Paul and Sam are both members of Derby Triathlon Club, and are extremely grateful for the support of their employers. Paul is Assistant Head at Foremarke Hall, whilst Sam, a former Repton pupil, is a trainee accountant at Baldwins in Ashby.

The race was over the standard Olympic distance, a 1500m swim followed by a 40km cycle leg and finally a 10km run. The age-group championship was the curtain-raiser for the final race in the professional ITU series, which saw Jonny Brownlee taking on the ITU leader, Javier Gomez.

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Songs of Praise from Repton

Ben Devlin of the BBC has sent what he describes as 'rather a message in a bottle'. He is hoping that someone will still have a recording - audio or video - of Songs of Praise, broadcast from Repton on 3rd February 1974; the BBC no longer has a copy.

St Wystan's Church and Repton History Group would also be very interested. If you can do anything to help, or simply to tell us about it, please contact , 01283 702410, or , 702448.

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Repton Village History Group

On Tuesday 20th October, Arnold Burston will be talking to us about the Mosleys and Rolleston on Dove. Rolleston Hall was acquired by Sir Edward Mosley, who was knighted in 1614; of the three baronetcies that existed then, just one is still extant today. The family included Sir Oswald Mosley of fascist blackshirt infamy.

In September we enjoyed short talks from three of our own members.

Chris Pegg asked us to identify the subject of his talk - somewhere with an important water supply, a brewery with a red symbol as its trade mark, and an important man named Pagett - but not Burton upon Trent. It turned out to be Woodville or Wooden Box, famous for its toll house which was originally a wooden box, possibly a port wine barrel. With stage coaches through to Liverpool and London, it was an important staging post on the way to Ashby. When the railway came, the original station serviced a large number of clay based industries. A passenger station had been built on a loop line which ran across the Hartshorne Road. Chris brought an example of a clay drainage pipe and a vase from the Bretby Art Pottery. He also mentioned the Tin Tabernacle and the Woodville Lock-up, still standing by the Clock Garage roundabout. There is enough material here for another talk next time.

Richard Wain talked about the River Trent, pointing out the course of the Old Trent channel which ran from west of the village to join the modern river course at Anchor Church. Here St Hardulph lived and prayed. The church remained in use and, much later, Repton Parish Records note the burial of 'ye old fool' from Anchor Church. The Burdetts developed the caves somewhat as a summerhouse for picnics. The line of the old river course can still be traced, especially in wet weather. Near Foremarke Hall, it had been thought that old stone riverside structures might have been a wharf, but further investigation identified them as probably a wing dyke, designed to keep the main channel in its course, with others located further east. Richard suggested that the name Twyford - meaning two fords - indicated that there had been two channels to the river, one of which would have been the Old Trent Water.

Gillian Hartley has taken a host of photos of Repton and is building up a wonderful album. She had selected some 80 of these, which were turned into a lovely slideshow with musical accompaniment.

We are grateful to all the speakers.

All are welcome to our meetings which start at 7.30 pm in Repton village hall - members £2, visitors £3 including refreshments. For further information contact Andy Austen on 01283 702448 or .

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Repton Village Society

At the September meeting, Tim Skelton talked about the architect Sir Edwin Lutyens and his designs for World War 1 memorials and cemeteries both in this country and on the Western Front. In a comprehensive lecture, Tim outlined the early life of Sir Edwin and his designs for country houses, before moving on to his involvement with what was to become the War Graves Commission. Tim also mentioned the funding, siting and religious issues surrounding some of the memorials in the United Kingdom.

Thursday 1st October: 'The Ups and Downs of a Helicopter Pilot, part 2' Last May, Jolyon Maclain gave the Society an excellent, humorous account of his early career as a helicopter pilot. In this follow up, he will be moving on to his experiences with the Sultan of Oman and then the police. Repton village hall, 7.30 pm.

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The Dales

A post on the Parish Council facebook page has stirred up controversy, suggesting that The Dales could be tidied up by DCC and brought back into use to provide short-term accommodation for Syrian refugees. The posting was unofficial. Repton Parish Council has heard nothing of any such plan, either officially or unofficially, and would have no influence in the matter. DCC is looking at accommodation for refugees but no decisions have been made yet; it is felt that the Dales would not be high on the list.

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Repton W.I.

We were delighted to welcome visitors to our September meeting when Colin Bagshaw gave us an insight into the hardships endured by the 100,000 men who took part in the Alaskan Gold Rush. In winter temperatures of -50°C, they carried a year's supplies over the mountains to the source of the Yukon, where they had to build boats to take them to the Klondyke. Imagine how they felt when they arrived to find that many of the claims had already been staked and they were left working for others. Many lost everything, and only about 30,000 returned home.

At the business part of the meeting we organised a lunch for 1st October, took names for the group meeting in Newton Solney, and agreed we would enter the Christmas Tree Festival again. An outing to see Gary Barlow's new musical, 'Girls', based on the Calendar Girls, is being organised by Janet Warner of Willington.

We were reminded that the Annual Meeting is on Tuesday 13th October at 7.15 pm in the village hall, and several members put their names forward for nomination to the new committee. A supper of jacket potatoes, salads and puddings will be served. New members and visitors will be welcome.

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Repton Village Show 2015

Repton's gardeners managed to produce some fantastic fruit and vegetables for this year's Village Show. The bakers, photographers and handcrafters added their expertise to ensure all the exhibits were of a very high standard. There were plenty of visitors to see the entries and make the day a success. Congratulations to all the prize winners.

Winners of the special prizes and cups:

Gordon Johnson	Boot Trophy	Best vegetable exhibit
Robert Crockett	John Crockett Trophy	Most points in the vegetable section
Gordon Johnson	Argyle Trophy	Best fruit exhibit
Martin Wimbush	Marjorie Boddice Trophy	Best sunflower
Nick Parish	McLean Cup	Best rose exhibit
Liz Massey-Beeston	Silver Tray	Best produce exhibit
Nick Parish	Photographic Shield
Alan Peach	Cup	Best flower exhibit
Lucine McLean	Handicraft Plate
Maisie Trueman	Zak's Cup	Most points in the children's section
Tilly Read	Young Baker

Thank you again to all who came to see the show and who took part in an excellent auction afterwards; with special thanks, once again, to our auctioneer, Adrian Argyle.

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Mobile Library Repton village hall, Tuesday 13th October
Askew Grove, 10.15 - 11.30 : The Square 11.35 - 1 pm

Starting in October, the mobile library makes two stops in Repton. Each stop is shorter however. The library works on a four-weekly timetable; the next two visits are on 10th November and 8th December. If you need to contact the base at Long Eaton, ring 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. Ring Kirsty on 01629 539 140 if you think you might qualify to arrange an assessment of your needs.

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Yard Sale at Monsom Lane

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity and support of so many people for our Yard Sale in August, a cheque for £1,423 has now been sent to the Nightingale Macmillan Unit at the Royal Derby Hospital. Many, many thanks to everyone. Sue and Dennis Banks

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Happy Retirement!

In last month's Parish Magazine we congratulated Sarah Farrell who had just received a national award for her work with Repton Baby and Toddler Group. Now, though, she is set to retire.

Sarah helped to set the Baby and Toddler Group up over 30 years ago. Under her enthusiastic and dedicated leadership it has flourished, and hundreds of local parents, children and babies have enjoyed this weekly gathering, the start of many life-long friendships.

Within the group, Sarah has been the driving force behind the arts and crafts, renowned for making much fought over and occasionally eaten playdough with her secret recipe. She was also regularly seen surrounded by many of the little ones on the rug area, reading them stories. We will miss her input so much, and thank her for all she has done.

The playgroup meets every Wednesday between 9.45 and 11.45 am at Repton village hall. Everyone is welcome.

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Repton Quiz Evening

Sadly we have had to cancel our annual Quiz this year, but hope to run it again in 2016.

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Repton Parish Council

Derby and Derbyshire Minerals Local Plan: Rob Murfin, Head of Planning Services, and Michelle Spence from Derbyshire County Council, addressed our meeting regarding consultation on the Local Plan, which, when it is adopted, will affect future applications from minerals companies to operate in this area. Derbyshire is an important producer of sand and gravel for the nation and further sites still need to be selected. During September and October the consultation will be concerned with the site selection methodology. As the Local Plan will guide development in this area until 2030, it is important that your views are represented. Further details and related documents can be found at derbyshire.gov.uk.

Free Tree Give Away 2015: Free trees are available to local residents and community groups. The choices are hazel, bird cherry, rowan and crab apple. As in previous years, you can apply for two trees per household, or ten if you are applying on behalf of a school or community group. The giveaway events will be held on Thursday 26th and Saturday 28th November at venues in South Derbyshire, but to be eligible you must apply before Monday 26th October to South Derbyshire District Council, south-derbys.gov.uk/freetreescheme or 01283 595795.

Allotments: Autumn is a good time to think about cultivating an allotment next spring. The Parish Council allotments are on Monsom Lane adjacent to the burial ground. Contracts for existing plot holders will be sent out in the New Year, but it is likely that there will be plots available. If you are interested, please contact me at the Parish Council office.

Next meeting: Monday 12th October in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton at 7.30 pm. All are welcome.

Parish Council Office, 40 High Street, t: 01283 701309,

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton W.I.

Roberta Higson welcomed W.I. adviser Judy Stanhope and our craft demonstrator, Liz Wibberly, to the September meeting. To celebrate the W.I.'s centenary year, members worked on their own personalised trinket bag, which will be completed by Liz and presented to members at our Christmas meeting. Roberta gave the vote of thanks, and delicious refreshments were served by Avril Skipper and Sue Carey.

At the end of August six members had visited the Centennial Fair in Harrogate, where they enjoyed the many attractions and met the original 'Calendar Girls'. Our Centenary celebrations continue with a meal at the Jinny in Rolleston on Wednesday 7th October.

Next meeting: Our AGM is on Wednesday 21st October at 7.30 in Milton village hall.

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Celebrations at Foremarke

At the end of September, a reunion at Foremarke Hall celebrated the school's 75th anniversary. The weekend saw current pupils bring history to life with 1940s style clothing and lessons with a 1940s theme. For former pupils there were tours, exhibitions, a diamond ball, and a service at St Saviour's Church with the Bishop of Derby.

The school began life within Repton School, occupying what is now The Cross boarding house, to help boost falling numbers during the Second World War. When it opened in April 1940, there were just eight boys on the roll; today there are over 450 boys and girls, aged from 3 to 13.

In 1947 the school moved to its current site, taking the name of the building as its title. Foremarke Hall itself looks now much as it does then, with the grand house, the lake and gardens, but over the decades the school's facilities have been transformed, and last year saw the opening of the latest development, a facility housing a contemporary music facility, the languages, English and humanities departments and an art block complete with a kiln. There is also an ICT suite and a Greenpower garage for Foremarke's award-winning electric cars, designed, built, maintained and driven by pupils.

The next development in the pipeline is a new dining facility with an extensive external patio to allow diners to enjoy the wonderful surroundings, and to match its cuisine, the winner in 2014 of Tatler's 'Best School Food' award.

But it is not just about the surroundings, facilities and extra-curricular activities. The core business is education, and over the last 75 years, the school has built an enviable reputation in the arts, sport and academic matters. Those who attend its frequent concerts in Repton and elsewhere will know just how brilliant the music is. Leavers move on to Repton and to other major schools all over the country.

Congratulations to Foremarke, which has thrived when many others have fallen by the wayside. It has been a major local success.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

The W.I. celebrates 100 years

We have had a busy summer, visiting Melbourne Hall, enjoying a summer social, holding a hot dog and prosecco stall at the village cricket match, and rounding off with a cream tea afternoon to celebrate 100 years of the W.I. movement in the UK.

Our September meeting heard a talk by Linda Collinson. A collector and maker of teddy bears, she brought along her collection of Steiff bears to demonstrate their enduring appeal.

Several events are in the pipeline for the autumn: a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, a W.I. Mercia group meeting in Newton Solney, and a Pie, Peas and Puds lunch on Saturday 24th October at 12 pm in the village hall; tickets are available at £7.50; all are welcome.

Our next meeting is on Tuesday 13th October at 7.30 in the village hall. Richard Glass will speak on 'Chocolate', sure to be popular! Sandra Carrington and Linda Brown are tea hostesses for this evening. Everyone is most welcome.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

At our first meeting after the summer break, Graham Vale spoke about the formation of the Aeropark Museum based at East Midlands Airport. After several site moves and the need to sell on some restored vintage aircraft because of lack of space, the museum is now settled on a permanent site, partly thanks to the generosity of individuals, firms and even the UASF, who have donated vintage aircraft, and partly to the volunteers, many of them retired aero engineers, who help to restore the aircraft. The museum hopes to acquire an extended lease so that this comprehensive collection of both military and civilian planes can be maintained for all to enjoy. It is open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays - £3 for adults, £2 for children, small children free.

Tuesday, 6th October: 2.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall

A business meeting followed by 'card bingo'.

Tuesday, 20th October: A trip to the Denstone Farm Shop

. . . followed by lunch at Sudbury Prison. We leave the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 am and return to Newton by about 3 pm. Cost £10.

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

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Newton Solney Parish Council News

Village Bonfire: This year's bonfire and firework display will take place on Saturday 7th November. As in previous years, suitable items may be put on the bonfire from 15th October.

Dial-a-Bus Service is a home to town service providing an opportunity for anyone who is unable to use public transport due to mobility difficulties or lack of a service in their area. For more information, contact 01283 550874.

Village Sports Day: The rain just about held off, allowing for a fantastic afternoon of cricket, rounders, children's races, and even a dog show! Thank you to everyone involved in making it a great village occasion.

Next Meeting: Friday 9th October at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

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Willington Surgery

Seasonal Flu Vaccination

Flu clinics have been arranged for Thursday 1st and Saturday 10th October. Further clinics this autumn will be advertised in reception and on the surgery web site. Please book an appointment with reception on 01283 703318.

it is recommended that you have an annual influenza injection if you are 65 or over, a carer, pregnant, or suffer from a chronic disease such as diabetes, chronic heart disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, chronic neurological disease, asthma (if you have received medication within the last 12 months), or immunosuppression.

Patients age 65 and over are entitled to a pneumococcal vaccine called Pneumavax which could be administered at the same time as the flu vaccine. If you would like to receive a Pneumovax please ask when booking your influenza appointment

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Dr. Hands retires

After 43 years as a general practitioner, Brian Hands has decided to retire completely at the end of October. He will be greatly missed by all the teams who work in and with Willington Surgery, and patients will particularly miss his conscientious, calm and gently reassuring manner. We wish him a very enjoyable and well deserved retirement.

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Environment Matters

Clean for the Queen

In partnership with Country Life Magazine and the Garfield Weston Foundation, Keep Britain Tidy has announced a 'Clean for The Queen' campaign. Everyone is being asked to celebrate Her Majesty's 90th birthday next year by helping to clean up Britain. The campaign will rally an army of volunteers across the country to clean up their local areas and will include a special clean-up weekend on 4th - 6th March.

When the Queen came to the throne, litter was not the problem that it is today. Food packaging, plastic bottles, takeaway meals and cigarette butts have all contributed to a growing menace that affects our wildlife, streets, countryside and sense of pride. What better way to show our gratitude to Her Majesty than to clean up our country?

At cleanforthequeen.co.uk, you'll find advice and tips about how to join a group or simply do your bit. If every adult picked up just one piece of litter and put it in a bin, that would be more than 50 million pieces of rubbish disposed of properly. Imagine if everyone picked up at least one piece of litter every day for the next nine months. We can all Clean for The Queen!

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You and your Pet

Fireworks and Stressed Pets

It's that time of year again when we must be aware of the damage that fireworks can do. The period around bonfire night does not hold much joy for vets: the cat that runs in front of a car as it tries to flee the noise, the horse that spooks in a field and breaks its leg, the terrified dog that jumps over the stair gate and dislocates its hip - these are just a few of my memories.

It's vital to keep pets inside. Often that is enough, but some pets, especially dogs, just don't cope very well, and there are plenty of other things we can do to help. Simple things like creating a hiding place such as a dog crate covered in old curtains can help them feel secure. We can try to get them acclimatised to the noise by using special CDs. Pheromone diffusers such as Feliway (for cats) and Adaptil (for dogs) mimic hormones that are produced by the mother to help her pups feel safe and secure. Other medicines based on proteins from the bitch's milk are a natural solution to the problem. Finally, if your pet suffers from severe anxiety, we can medicate them to make fireworks as stress-free as possible.

Stress can show itself in a number of ways. You may notice behavioural changes, pets may start marking inappropriately or become destructive; they may just over-groom (especially cats), and they may develop medical conditions such as colitis, cystitis or skin conditions. Problems are best treated early, so please seek help. There is lots that can be done; sometimes simple advice is all that is needed.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Trick or Treat: Although this can be great fun for the young, they need to be reminded that some people, especially those who are elderly or more vulnerable, may be distressed by strangers knocking at their door. Please respect the wishes of people who display 'No Trick or Treat' notices. Young children should always be accompanied by an adult.

Fireworks: If you are buying fireworks this month, please consider other residents and animals, which can easily be spooked by very loud noises. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to buy or carry fireworks. Fireworks cannot be set off between 11 pm and 7 am, except on Bonfire Night, when they can be let off until midnight, and at New Year's Eve, Diwali and the Chinese New Year.

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

We can have some lovely sunshine in October but the threat of frost is always present. The first severe frost will destroy the top growth of dahlias and begonias, but many tubers will survive the winter, especially if they are covered in a thick mulch and do not get too wet overwinter. We are used to seeing odd potatoes surviving in the vegetable patch, but I am quite surprised to see 'tender' begonias flowering from tubers left in the ground for several years without protection. Similarly, some tender fuchsias will survive, especially if mulched this month. If you ever move an old fuchsia, you will be amazed how large and woody the root system is.

October is a wonderful month to stick cuttings direct into the ground: the soil is still warm, it has started to wet up, and dews are heavy. This year's shoots are ripe, and a surprising range of plants can be propagated. I have had success with willow, elderberry, snowberry, cornus, escallonia, buddleja, euonymus, roses, blackcurrants, gooseberries and others, but it is worth having a go with any hardy shrub; the cuttings and my time are free! I insert loads of cuttings and do not even use hormone rooting powder. What have I got to lose? Usually 6 to 8 inches long, cuttings are inserted like an iceberg - at least two thirds buried with only their tops showing. To improve the chances of rooting, provide some protection in the form of a frame, avoid a dry sunny spot, improve the drainage with grit or sand, improve the moisture retention with some compost, and water occasionally when summer eventually arrives. Nothing will happen above ground for many months, but in the spring or early summer the dormant buds will develop into new shoots, and by the autumn the plants will be ready to move on. Give it a go!

Last October I sowed seeds of various annuals in the greenhouse. Those that did well were quite exceptional; the best were the cornflower Blue Boy and annual rudbeckia Rustic Dwarfs. The plants were much larger, flowered earlier and for much longer. All it needs is a cold greenhouse or even a cold frame. Sow as soon as possible and keep seedlings just damp over the winter. By spring you will have jumbo sized plants to set out.

Sow broad beans outdoors; Acquadulce claudia is the best variety. You can also sow sweet peas or garden peas for an earlier crop. They need to be in a sheltered spot but do not need to be under cover.

Plant out spring cabbage, garlic and autumn onion sets. Plant winter lettuce in a cold frame, and sow salads and oriental greens in a greenhouse.

Pick and store apples and pears, disposing of any with brown rot or damage. Protect fruit trees against winter moth with grease bands around the trunk.

Don't forget to feed the birds.