Magazine Archive		Magazine Contacts	Church Contacts		Repton Church Home
The Parish Magazine Repton, Foremark, Milton, Ingleby, Newton Solney
January 2016

A Happy New Year! 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 9th January Shell (for children aged 7+) Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: 18th - 25th January Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Arla Mary Coleman Louis George Pallett Fleur Marie Sample The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Groups St Wystan's News Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: Services A later start for Morning Prayer Choral Evensong Advent Service of Light A bit of a do ~ St Wystan's Church Social Events Thank you to so many Repair work in Church St Saviour's News Thank You!    St Saviour' s Christmas Bazaar Local Diary Event Details Repton Activity Day, Sunday 3rd January Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 6th January Repton School Concerts Society: Wednesday 13th January Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 18th January Milton Lunch Club, Thursday 21st January Messy Church, Sunday 24th January Repton School Concerts Society, Wednesday 27th January The Great War Commemorated 100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . . Repton Village Hall Appeal Events in 2016 Repton Village and History Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane An Evening with Cantata, Saturday 27th February Scouts mid-winter camp Ashley Hutchings Live & Local, Saturday 19th March RVHG: Where was the Tithe Barn? Repton Christmas Tree Festival Repton Village Society Repton W.I. Mobile Library, Tuesday 12th January Repton Parish Council Milton & Foremark Village Matters Milton Village Hall Events Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters Children's Society Collection Newton Solney C of E Infant School Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney Parish Council News Newton Solney W.I. Willington Surgery Inspectors Call! Staff Changes Vaccines South Derbyshire Willington Gravel Pits Digital Derbyshire Environment Matters Trees from Christmas Cards You and your Pet Here's to a happy, healthy New Year Neighbourhood Watch Bogus Websites Freezing Weather Gardening Notes

---

A Happy New Year!

New Year is a time when people all over the world look forward with hope and anticipation. And without exception, it is seen as a time for people to come together to celebrate. In fact, as we count down those last seconds before midnight, we can say that New Year is now almost synonymous with community, fireworks, the peal of church bells and celebration. Each day of our lives is a precious day worth celebrating and using meaningfully, but special days are always an excuse for a party, and a good opportunity to spread joy.

As the old year ends, we remember all those resolutions we made last January and realize we have failed to meet most of them. But the New Year allows us the opportunity to begin again, by giving us all an occasion to send each other our love and good wishes, and to celebrate the beginning of another year in all its diverse forms. It allows us to move forward by letting go of the past and looking to the future with renewed enthusiasm and hope.

True celebration is recognition of how God's goodness inspires and equips us by helping us to recognize our own basic goodness, and move forward in this knowledge with joy and inspired courage.

A story I have heard told in several forms, and which demonstrates how God helps us to recognize our own potential, tells of a great warrior who searched the world for the book of infinite wisdom. He fought long and hard before coming at last to the tallest mountain in the most remote part of the world. Here the final battle was to take place, and this last opponent would be his greatest challenge. But as the warrior moved forward to fight, his opponent motioned him to stop. Instead of aggression, he calmly pointed down a path and told the warrior: "It is there you will find the book of all wisdom." Looking beyond, the warrior saw a beautiful pavilion, and as he walked towards it, he found calm waters on each side of the path, gardens filled with beautiful flowers, and colourful birds overhead. Beyond the pavilion was a cliff with the most spectacular mountain view. Within the pavilion the book was suspended in mid-air. The warrior entered, and, as he eagerly opened it, a warm feeling surrounded his body. Finally, the answer would be revealed. The warrior looked into the book of all wisdom. It was a mirror – a mirror that reflected himself.

Infinite wisdom is awareness of our own potential to do good when we allow the Spirit of God to work within us.

So, let us celebrate New Year by recognizing our own natural goodness, and allow it to shine forth as we come together in 2016, sharing God's love with those around us.

Wishing you all blessings and a very Happy New Year!

---

Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

---

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

---

Altar Flowers
Frances Wimbush, 703180

---

Brasses
Sue Parker, 702550

---

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

---

The United Reformed Church

---

Coffee morning: Saturday 9th January, 10.30 - 11.30 am

A chance to restock with home-made cakes and preserves, to have coffee with friends, and to try your luck on the tombola! Everyone welcome.

---

SHELL Group for young people aged 7 +

. . . starts the new season on Monday 11th January, 6.30 - 7.30 pm. New members are always welcome.

---

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: 18th - 25th January

This is the time when Christians give thanks for the work and witness we share together, and renew our covenant to share in the mission of the wider Christian community across the world. This year we will worship together at both the beginning and the end of the Week for Christian Unity – on Sunday 17th January at St Wystan's and on Sunday 24th at the United Reformed Church. You will be most welcome to join us at both services.

---

Baptisms

Arla Mary, daughter of Michael and Heather Coleman of The Crescent, Repton, was baptised on Sunday 29th November at St Wystan's Church, Repton.

Louis George, son of Stuart Pallett and Sarah Taylor of Bridge Street, Church Gresley, and grandson of Vivien and Andrew Taylor of Oak Tree Farm, Milton, was baptised on Sunday 29th November at St Wystan's Church, Repton.

Fleur Marie Sample, daughter of Zoe and Julian Sample of 33 Newton Road, Burton upon Trent, was baptised on Sunday 13th December at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney.

---

The Memorial Book

Repton has a fine memorial book permanently on display in St Catherine's Chapel in the north aisle of St Wystan's Church. It was donated in memory of Henry Chilton as a place to commemorate former residents of Repton.   All are eligible and welcome, as well as those buried or interred in St Wystan's churchyard or Monsom Lane cemetery.   There is no charge but a donation towards church funds is greatly appreciated.   All we need is the full name and the dates of birth and death.

Please contact us.

---

Repton Benefice

Groups

Intercessory Prayer for Healing next meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Monday 4th January.

The Bible Study Group studying the Acts of the Apostles meets on Thursdays 7th and 21st January 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 January.

---

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

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

There are Christians from many different backgrounds here in Repton. Within our churches and community I have met people from at least ten denominations. While we lose something in not worshipping together all the time, we also gain by offering variety and a richness in styles. However, it is good to worship occasionally as one Christian family, and every January there is an internationally recognised Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

On 17th January at 10.30 am we are holding a special service in St Wystan's to mark its beginning as the churches combine in renewing our commitment to live the Christian life. The same evening at 6.30 there will be a Choral Epiphany service, remembering the kings arriving at the stable to adore the Christ Child, acknowledging the birth of the Messiah.

At 12.30 on Wednesday 20th January, there will be a short service of unity in St Wystan's, open to all who care to come, and followed immediately by a simple soup lunch in church.

On Sunday 24th January the week draws to a close with a combined evening service at 6.30 pm at the United Reformed Church. Here too, all are most welcome.

Whatever church you belong to, you are most welcome to come along and join in these special celebrations.

---

A later start for Morning Prayer

You are warmly invited to join us every morning in St Wystan's for a quiet service of morning prayer. It currently starts at 7.45 am, but from Monday 18th January, when work on the Sleath memorial has been completed (see below), we are moving to 8.30. The service will last 25 minutes, except on Thursdays when it will be 30 minutes. We will use different services, Anglican, Celtic, Franciscan and so on for four month periods. You may choose to come every day, or just occasionally.

If you are unable to join us, we trust you will nevertheless be reassured to know that prayers on behalf of all of us are said every day in your parish church.

---

Choral Evensong

Many people love the music of choral evensong, and choirs put much effort and love into making it special. At St Wystan's Church, the service is sung regularly by the Wystan Singers at 6.30 pm on the third Sunday of the month.

Evensong goes back to the very beginning of Christianity, in the services that Jesus himself led with his disciples that later evolved into Christian scripture and doctrine. And now, if you would like to attend the service in other churches and cathedrals, perhaps when you are away on holiday, a new website, choralevensong.org, helps you to find services in any part of the country.

---

Advent Service of Light

Previous experience told me that the Repton Advent Carol Service was a special occasion, and it was. With the Wystan Singers leading our singing and helping us focus on the Advent message with wonderfully sung anthems, it all went very well indeed. Being the 'Season of Light', the service began in relative darkness, with the Light of Christ brought into church by a vicar who nearly missed the steps in the dark! Candles and lights were gradually lit as the service progressed, symbolising the growing light of God's presence in the world. May I thank all those who helped, not just the musicians, but those who read the lessons and controlled the lighting as well.

---

A bit of a do ~ St Wystan's Church Social Events, June to December

Our social events are varied and fun, with so many people involved both helping and participating.

At the end of June we had a BBQ with Messy Church in the churchyard. As last year it went really well. Thank you to Karen and John Perks who masterminded the feeding of so many.

In a short spell of reasonable summer weather in July, we enjoyed a very busy coffee morning in Wendy and Stephen Longden's lovely garden, followed at the end of the month by a bring and share lunch in church, and in August Wendy and Simon Mann hosted a fun garage sale with coffee and cakes.

At our harvest festival in September we once again enjoyed a splendid bring & share lunch in church. Unfortunately though, we had to cancel the annual quiz night, as the majority of helpers were away or indisposed. Hopefully it will be back as usual next year.

A shared lunch in November to celebrate Stanley Morris's 80th birthday, and to express our gratitude for all his support and hard work, was completely packed, with excellent food and a lovely atmosphere.

At the end of November we greatly enjoyed our annual Soup and Sweet concert, when the pupils of Foremarke Hall School performed to their usual amazing standard. Thank you to all the performers and to Susan Bloor for organising it, as well as the cooks and servers who provided the lunch that followed, and, of course, to all you who came. Again, the lunch was sold out.

Thank you to everyone involved in providing such enjoyable events, we do appreciate all the work that you do.

---

Thank you to so many

With many special events, services and concerts, St Wystan's has been exceptionally busy recently. I would like to thank everyone who gave their time and worked so hard to make them so successful – the Social Committee, the churchwardens and our congregations, as well as many members of our local community. Finally I would like to thank all of you who have supported these occasions. I don't know how many people found their way into church to share and enjoy the splendid things on offer, but it was a great many, for which we are grateful. Thank you one and all.

---

Repair Work in Church

During the first two weeks of January, workmen will be repairing a memorial to William Boultbee Sleath, a former Headmaster of Repton School, which is on the wall of St Catherine's Chapel in the north aisle of St Wystan's Church. Pieces have fallen off, and it is in need of extensive repair. The church will remain open to visitors and access to the crypt will be maintained. Services, including any funerals, will be unaffected. We are very grateful to Repton School for undertaking to defray the costs.

William Boultbee Sleath

Sleath, an English teacher and clergyman, was Headmaster of Repton School from 1800 to 1830.

Born around 1763, he attended Rugby School, and on leaving as a pupil in December 1778, was immediately appointed back as an assistant master. In 1797 he obtained a Bachelor of Divinity degree at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, but continued as a master at Rugby until he was elected headmaster of Repton School in 1800. In 1802 he obtained a Doctorate in Divinity. It is said that during his 30-year period as head of Repton School, he both raised its standards and significantly increased the number of pupils.

He is described as an excellent teacher and an erudite scholar, distinguished for his researches into Anglo-Saxon England. It was said of him: 'Dr. Sleath's conversation was always entertaining and instructive, and he did not at any period of his life possess the virtue of taciturnity.' On retirement in 1830, he was given the vicarage of Willington and the mastership of Etwall Hospital, an almshouse. He died in1843 aged 80.

---

St Saviour's News

Thank You!    St Saviour's Christmas Bazaar On behalf of St Saviour's PCC, thank you to everyone who helped to make November's Christmas Bazaar in Milton village hall such a success – to those who sold raffle tickets; made cakes; gave prizes; ran stalls; served refreshments; set up the hall and cleared everything away afterwards; gave donations; and especially to all who made the effort to attend on the day.

Despite competition from several other events, the bazaar raised just over £1,500. We are extremely grateful for everyone's support.

Sunday 3rd January, Repton Village Hall Repton Activity Day Start the New Year as you mean to go on! Activities suitable for all ability levels. Each session £5; choose as many as you like. Healthy Snacks available and an opportunity to have a Body MOT as well   9.30 Zumba 10.30 XPress 10.30 Nordic Walking 11.00 Pilates   12.00 Tai Chi 2.00 Yoga 3.15 Line Dancing     Tickets from Mulberry Beauty Salon, Repton Post Office and Redshaws Butchers, or Lynne Skeith.

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 6th January 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 L'Entente Cordiale with Repton Music Department Wednesday 13th January at 7.45 pm in the Robert Beldam Hall Following last year's excellent Mozartabend concert, the Music Department has devised an exciting and varied programme to celebrate our love of all things French. Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). For further information or tickets contact Sue Parker, 56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR.

Books, Browse and Coffee Wednesday 18th January, 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

Milton Lunch Club Thursday 21st January, 12.30 pm in Milton Village Hall.   £5. Beef Stew and Dumplings followed by Fruit Tart. Contact Lynn, 704540, Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436 Everyone welcome wherever you live! If you need transport, let us know

Messy Church New Year, New Start Fun activities,craft and games,celebration and food for all the family St Wystan's Church, Sunday 24th January, 4 to 5.30 pm To find out more, email Messy Church or call Ruth Attwood. Everyone is welcome!

Repton School Concerts Society The Swingle Singers Wednesday 27th January at 7.45 pm in the 400 Hall For over half a century, The Swingle Singers have pushed the boundaries of vocal music. The seven young singers who make up today's group are driven by the same innovative spirit that has defined the group since they first made waves in the 1960s. The group's versatility has led to collaborations with artists as diverse as the Modern Jazz Quartet, Jamie Cullum and Labyrinth. The programme will consist of both original songs and a few album tracks too. This is a great opportunity to hear a world-renowned group of singers live. Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). For further information or tickets contact Sue Parker, 56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR

The Great War Commemorated

100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . .

We begin the New Year, at the instance of the King and Archbishops, by a solemn dedication of our nation to the service of Almighty God. There has been no crisis in our nation's fate so grave as the one in which we stand now; the destiny of ourselves and our children's children is being slowly woven in the intense struggle of which no one can see the end. It has been truly said that the things we find hardest to overcome in our foes are not . . . the blundering cynicism of the German Foreign Office, or the methodical savagery of her General Staff. . . . Our real obstacles are the loyalty, the self-sacrifice, and the endurance of the German people.

And the only way to overcome in this war is to show an equal and a greater store of these virtues. . . . With an infinitely better cause – with the knowledge that we are fighting for justice, for liberty, and freedom against brute force – we can match our resolution and our will against that of Germany, and overcome. But it must be through a nation not only united, not only full of determination, but one ready to give all and do all for that end. And this spirit comes first and principally through religion. We may think, and quite rightly, that the Prussian is irreligious, and in reality anti-Christian, but has our nation as a whole been much better? . . . Has not our religion been rather . . . lukewarm, a mixture of Matins and Millinery, of Responses and Respectability? The Frenchman is either one thing or the other – a downright Agnostic or a fervent Catholic – and really that is better for a nation than a type of faith which can neither be hated – nor loved.

Repton Village Hall Appeal 2016 Following very successful events in 2014 and 2015, we would be delighted if you could join us at the events we have planned for the coming year. Sunday 3rd January, 9.30 am - 5.30 pm in Repton Village Hall Healthy Activity Different classes throughout the day. £5 per session. Details on page 15 Saturday 27th February, 7.30 pm at Repton Village Hall An Evening with Cantata Great Music : Bring your own food, drink & glasses. Details below Saturday 5th March, 7.00 for 7.30 pm at Repton Village Hall Murder Mystery An evening of intrigue and entertainment. Supper included Tickets £15 from Frances Wimbush Thursday 14th April, 10.00 am - 4.00 pm at Repton Village Hall Friendly Bridge Coffee, soup & sandwich lunch, glass of wine, tea & cake Tickets £15 from Louise Chilton Friday April 30th, 7.30 pm at Repton Village Hall Afrique Classique An eclectic mix of songs and styles from Africa and Europe Tickets £10 from Rosie Carpenter or Caroline Jerram Sunday 3rd July, 1.30 for 2.00 pm in The Grand Marquee at Repton School Lunch on the Paddock Three course meal by The Winery and music by Swing Commanders Tickets Carol Lloyd Saturday 24th September, 7.30 pm at Repton Village Hall Pig Racing An evening of laughter and excitement. Refreshments Tickets £15 Monday 31st October, 5.30 - 7.30 pm at Repton Village Hall Children's Halloween Party Games, fancy dress competition & refreshments Tickets £5 (children up to age 11) Elaine Newbold If you have fundraising suggestions or can offer help in any way, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact either Adrian Argyle or Carol Lloyd

Repton Village & History

Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane
		Team	Opponents
17th	2.00 pm	Repton Casuals U15	Winshill Gold
24th	10.30 am	Repton Casuals Youth	Belvedere Park Juniors
24th	2.00 am	Repton Casuals U15	Rolleston

---

An Evening with Cantata
Repton Village Hall, Saturday 27th February at 7.30 pm

Organised by Repton Village Society in aid of the village hall appeal, Cantata's performance here in February 2015 was one of the highlights of the year, and there were many requests for their return.

An ensemble of 14 wonderfully talented singers and instrumentalists, they have raised over £55,000 for charity, performing regularly at concerts throughout the East Midlands and beyond. Once again, the proceeds of this year's event will go towards the purchase of projection equipment for the village hall.

Their programme will include songs from West End and Broadway musicals, the Rat Pack and Glen Miller, as well as acapella songs, popular hits and movie classics.

So bring your own food, drink and glasses and be prepared for another great evening. You can either make up your own table with any number of friends or leave it to us to place you – the system has worked well over many years now. Tickets are required in advance to help arrange table seating: £7 from Alan Webster on 01283 701838.

---

Scouts mid-winter camp

Who would ever think of camping in January, but for some Scouts - and leaders - this will be the fourth year running. On the 9th / 10th January, nine Scouts and three leaders will be in Northumberland at the Hawkhirst National Scout Activity Centre on Kielder Water for a weekend packed full of activities ¬– and hopefully a bit less mud than last year!

In December, Scouts did amazing performances of diablo, juggling, unicycling, monkey bike and stilt walking in the last week of our circus skills workshops. Then, in our final week before Christmas we enjoyed snowball fights, reindeer butting races, and celebration races at the Den, finishing with an investiture for seven new Scouts and some badge presentations, all held in the Crypt at St Wystan's Church.

If you would like more information about Scouts, please contact Mike Knowles.

---

Ashley Hutchings   ~   From Psychedelia to Sonnets
Repton Village Hall, Saturday 19th March at 7.30 pm

Known as 'The Guv'nor' of British folk rock, Ashley Hutchings' reputation attracts fans from far afield. He is the founder of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and other successful bands including the Albion Band (in all its many guises) and The Rainbow Chasers. And for those of you who saw 'Blair Dunlop in Concert', Ashley is Blair's father.

What is less well known about Ashley Hutchings is his talent as a writer. In 2014 he published his first book 'Words Words Words', a selection of song lyrics, poems, sonnets and other writings that span his entire career - and tell his story.

His current show, 'From Psychedelia to Sonnets', celebrates Ashley's 70th year. Accompanied by Ruth Angell of the Rainbow Chasers, Ashley shares the stories behind the writings, adds detail to the history of the bands he has created, and describes some of the many theatre projects he has brought to fruition.

Live & Local have brought us a string of very pleasurable evenings over recent years, including a visit from Ashley Hutchings and the Rainbow Chasers in 2010, and we confidently expect another wonderful event. Tickets should be available this month.

---

Where was the Tithe Barn?   ~    Repton Village History Group

The history group has been hunting the site of the real tithe barn for a while now, ever since Prof Martin Biddle confirmed that the building beside the arch is nothing like old enough, dating only from the late 18th or early 19th century.

Two documentary sources gave us good clues. Then DCC gave us a grant to buy a more powerful computer, enabling us to overlay an old map onto a modern map and correct mapping errors. This gave us the best possible fix on the barn. Derbyshire Archaeology Society helped also, organising us in a couple of surveys to measure the resistance of the underlying soil, and we thought we might have found a hard floor.

On a rainy October day, a small test pit was dug on the most promising spot, but we found an area of clay rather than a floor. This could have been the remnants of a dew pond, or perhaps material from a collapsed wattle and daub wall, or possibly the clay from a clay bonded stone wall when it was removed. We do know that the lower levels of the barn were stone.

We plan to do more research and perhaps one day excavate another pit, but meanwhile our attention has shifted to documentary research on the medieval Priory Mill, which may originally have been Anglo-Saxon.

On Tuesday 19th January our speaker is Shirley Horton, who will be delivering the second part of her talk on the history of pubs. All are welcome to our meetings at 7.30 pm in Repton village hall - £2 members, £3 non-members including refreshments. For further information contact Andy Austen.

---

Repton Christmas Tree Festival

This year we hosted 38 trees in the atmospheric setting of St Wystan's Church, and many visitors commented that the festival looked even lovelier than in previous years. All the trees were very cleverly decorated, showing just how creative people can be.

On both Saturday and Sunday afternoons there was a really appreciative audience for the live music, an innovation this year. The novice musicians are to be particularly congratulated on their performances, not easy when you are still in the very early stages, and a fine example to us all. On Sunday, Derventio Quartet, played beautiful Christmas music, some requested by visitors. With the lights and the music, the effect was magical. A big thank you to all the performers, and to Sarah Lloyd who masterminded both events.

Later on both afternoons, as the church grew dark, the children thoroughly enjoyed their Christmas Story, seated in a circle and surrounded by Christmas trees.

So many individuals have given their time and effort that it is impossible to name you all, but thank you to every one of you. The event has been a great success, socially, and also financially, raising £600 for Repton Village Hall Appeal.

---

Repton Village Society

Thursday 7th January: The most northerly bird observatory in the world

In his two previous talks Colin McShane has described his experiences whilst studying birds in Russia and North Africa. This month he will be setting out his involvement during the past four years in the establishment of the most northerly bird observatory in the world. He will also describe the results so far, bringing images of some of the stunning species and their migration patterns.

Saturday 27th February at 7.30 pm: Another 'Evening with Cantata'

Following Cantata's performance last year, many of you asked us to book them again. As before, the proceeds of this year's event will go towards the village hall, so make up your table now, buy your tickets early, and come along for another great evening. See above for details.

---

Repton W.I.

We started our Christmas celebrations with an evening of food, wine, quizzes, carols and chat, and exchanged Secret Santa presents. Lynda and Lynne had decorated the Christmas Tree Festival tree again, and were congratulated on their expertise. Pat was also thanked for organising our very enjoyable dinner at Branston Golf Club, an opportunity to dress up!

Members were reminded that subscriptions are due in January, and signed up for a possible theatre visit in April. In January we will be celebrating Burns Night, and also have a coffee morning at Mercia Marina. The Walking Group has organised two walks for January and February.

Celebrations continued a few days later with a visit to the Mulberry Restaurant in Burton for a Christmas Lunch, and then the Group carol service at St Mary's Church.

Our first meeting of the New Year is on Tuesday 12th January at 7.15 pm in the village hall. Visitors are always welcome to join us.

---

Mobile Library     Tuesday 12th January
Repton village hall, 10.15-11.30 : The Square, 11.35-1

The library has a four-weekly timetable; subsequent visits are on 9th February and 8th March. To contact the base at Long Eaton, call 01629 531398; for the van, 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 an assessment of your needs.

---

Repton Parish Council

Cricket Pitch Available: The cricket pitch at Broomhills playing fields has been used by Ticknall Cricket Club for the past sixteen years, however, from next year they will be relocating to another ground. If you are interested in using the pitch and pavilion at Broomhills Lane please contact the Parish Council office for further details.

Adverse Weather Conditions: The Parish Council has refilled the grit bins around the village in case we experience adverse weather conditions this winter. Derbyshire County Council provides up to date information regarding road closures and the road gritting service in this area at derbyshire.gov.uk/snow.

Derbyshire & Derby Minerals Local Plan: (An update to the article in October's Parish Magazine.) DCC is now amending the papers, taking into account comments submitted. However, further papers have been published in recent months, including on the draft vision and objectives. Should you wish to submit any further comments on the future of minerals policy in this area, you must do so by the 31st January 2016. Details are at derbyshire.gov.uk.

Next meeting: Monday 11th January in The Community Room, Fisher Close, Repton at 7.30 pm. All are welcome.

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

---

Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Village Hall

Santa paid a visit to Milton Christmas Party, showering everybody with snow and Christmas cheer. The village hall was full, and folk tucked into pork baps and mince pies washed down with mulled wine. Children and adults brought baubles to decorate the tree, the stage was dressed as a delightful Christmas scene, and entertainment was provided by Jim Widdop. The raffle was very popular, with some super Christmas prizes, and a light-hearted Christmas quiz was won by the 'clever cloggs' team by just one point. Many thanks to everyone who attended or who helped with the event.

To hire Milton village hall, contact Polly Faulkner through the website or on 703436.

---

Milton W.I.

Our first meeting of the New Year is on Wednesday 20th January at 7.30 pm; the speaker will be John Bremner, a Derby Street Pastor. We also need to start thinking about a venue for our Annual Dinner on Wednesday 2nd March.

Visitors and new members are always welcome. We hope to see lots of you in 2016.

---

Newton Solney Village Matters

Children's Society Collection

This year's annual box collection in Newton Solney amounted to £527.10, exceeding all previous totals, so a big 'thank you' to all box holders. The Children's Society aims to improve the lives of children who are neglected, or who live in poverty or fear of violence, but nationally their revenue has been decreasing over recent years. If you feel able to donate to this worthy cause, please contact Linda Williams on 01283 701366.

---

Newton Solney C of E Infant School

Thank you to everyone who came to our Christmas Fair, organised by the Friends of Newton Solney School, at the end of November. We had a lovely afternoon of festive fun. Thank you to everyone who supported this event in any way.

Community Collective Worship for parents, carers and local residents is held on the first Thursday of the month at 9.15 am. Do join us in the school hall on 7th January. Further dates for your diary are 4th February and 3rd March. Heidi Elks (Headteacher)

---

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

In November our trip to Trentham was well attended and went well. There was plenty for everyone to see and do, with good places to eat. Then, at our December meeting, Joan Buchannan gave a demonstration on how to make a Christmas centre-piece. As usual with experts she made it look very easy, but then it was then time for the rest of us to have a go! Most people seemed happy with their efforts though, and were able to take them home. Special thanks to Joan for her guidance and patience.

Tuesday 5th January: 2.30 pm

After the business meeting Dennis will present a pictorial diary of our activities in 2015.

Tuesday, 19th January: A trip to Boundary Mills

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

If you would like to find out more about Tuesday Club or come on any of our trips, you will be most welcome. Please contact our Secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520.

---

Newton Solney Parish Council News

Dog Fouling: The Parish Council has had a number of complaints about dog fouling on Blacksmiths Lane, Main Street and Trent Lane. Residents are encouraged to report any irresponsible dog owners to SDDC dog warden on 01283 595943 or 07855 782550.

Defibrillator: The clerk is organising a refresher session for all defibrillator responders and will be in touch shortly with a date.

Future Projects: The Parish Council is currently looking at replacing the bus shelter and village noticeboard.

Next Meeting: Friday 8th January at 7.30 pm in the village hall. All are welcome.

---

Newton Solney W.I.

Newton Solney members entered into the Christmas spirit, thoroughly enjoying a pantomime performance of A Christmas Carol by North East Producers, and a bring & share supper.

The Mercia Group carol service at St Mary's was well supported and much appreciated by roughly eighty members of local W.I.s.

In January the first meeting will be a social event, 'I didn't know that', on Tuesday 12th at 7.30 pm in the village hall. New members are always made very welcome. Gail Cotton and Pauline Barker are the tea hostesses; Annie Topliss is to provide flowers.

On Tuesday 26th January there will be a whist drive at 7 pm in the village hall; any new players are very much encouraged. These evenings are being arranged on a month by month basis according to the level of interest shown.

---

Willington Surgery

Inspectors Call!

Although, after 43 years, Dr. Brian Hands retired completely from clinical work at the end of October, he has kept an interest as a member of the Local Medical Committee. This helped us enormously as 3rd November saw our Care Quality Commission inspection. Dr. Hands and all the team worked tremendously hard to ensure everything was in place and ready. There were four inspectors, a GP, a practice manager, the lead inspector who has a nursing background, and a patient representative.

After a presentation from Dr. Hands on the history and development of the surgery, the inspectors spent time with clinicians, the practice manager and various members of staff. Many questions were asked and much evidence produced. We will not know the result until Christmas Eve, too late for this magazine.

We would like to thank the three Patient Participation Group (PPG) members who supported us on the day and impressed the patient representative enormously. We are fortunate to have such a supportive group. Please consider joining the PPG to help develop the practice further; all ages are most welcome.

---

Staff Changes

Dr. Sahar Khan leaves the practice at the end of December and hopes to move to Qatar in early spring. In the meantime, you may see her in the surgery as she has offered to help as a locum.

Recruitment of new partners within primary care is not easy. We hope to have a new female partner joining us in February. Meanwhile, we have the support of Dr. Stephen Shepherd, Dr. Sue Ruddle and Dr. Ramanathan Rajendran (Dr Raj).

If your accountable doctor was Dr. Hands, it is now Dr. Vivien Makava. Dr. Khan's patients will be shared among all remaining partners, so after the beginning of January please ask at reception who your accountable GP is now.

---

Flu Vaccines

It is still not too late to have an influenza vaccine; please make an appointment with reception. Pneumonia and shingles vaccines are available all year to the eligible cohorts.

---

South Derbyshire

Willington Gravel Pits

A new sand bank and viewing platform have been created at Willington Gravel Pits, ready to welcome the sand martins this summer. A hide on top of the platform will be ready in March. Meanwhile, there is usually no better place - locally at least - to witness a starling murmuration when thousands of birds perform their jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics as they prepare to roost at dusk.

---

Digital Derbyshire

In parts of Repton you can now get fibre-optic broadband. It gives greatly improved performance, and transforms what you can do online; it is much quicker to download music or films, and watching catch-up tv is altogether smoother and more satisfying.

Before you order fibre broadband • At digitalderbyshire.org.uk/check, see what is available and predicted speeds.
• Most companies will allow you to upgrade, but check your current contract.
• If you intend to switch provider, compare packages carefully. Decide whether you want a combined broadband and call package or not. Then check speed; usage limits; contract length; special offers and ongoing costs.
• Your provider will explain to do next. An engineer may need to visit to do any necessary work.

For more information visit digitalderbyshire.org.uk.

---

Environment Matters

Trees from Christmas Cards

The Woodland Trust is calling on people to recycle Christmas cards and help plant thousands of trees across the UK. For every 1,000 cards dropped in to M&S stores for recycling throughout January, the retailer will fund the Woodland Trust to plant a tree. Card collection bins will be in M&S stores from 2nd to 31st January.

Last year 6,255,833 cards were collected, and this year's target is once again to collect and recycle more than 6 million Christmas cards, producing 6,000 trees. Where the scheme differs from our green kerbside recycle bins is that native trees will be planted here in the UK.

The M&S Christmas Card Recycling Scheme is now in its fifth year, and the UK is 32,000 trees richer thanks to the public's efforts in dropping cards in to store each January, rather than in kerbside recycling bins.

---

You and your Pet

Here's to a happy, healthy New Year

New Year's resolutions are a great way to start afresh, and many of us use them as an incentive to get fit. Our pets are also prone to a little weight gain over the festive period, and it is vital for their health and wellbeing that we keep them nice and trim too, although I know that that's easier said than done. Food is key; the law of conservation of energy states that 'energy cannot be created or destroyed; it is changed from one form to another.' Therefore, if we feed less, less energy is moved into fat stores in the body. Exercise helps, but reducing intake provides a faster weight loss than increasing exercise.

Reducing food intake should not be done too drastically as the body needs time to adjust. Gradual diet changes are best; perhaps stop the leftover cheese and that late night biscuit, even when large eyes are looking so sad – yes, I have a Lab and know how hard it is! The problem is that, for a dog, 60 grammes of cheese is equivalent to our eating two doughnuts, and a rawhide bone is equivalent to a whopping seven!

It really is for their own good. Overweight pets are prone to diabetes, liver disease and arthritis as they age. Our pets are noticeably living longer, and maintaining adequate weight is imperative to help them retain their quality of life as they age. Most vet practices are more than happy for you to pop in and have your pet weighed. There are lots of special diets available, but they are generally not needed. Unless there is an underlying medical cause such as hypothyroidism, just reduce food intake; weight loss will happen.

---

Neighbourhood Watch

Bogus Websites: The sales are a great time for bargains, and for scammers, so when you shop online, check any website you aren't sure about carefully. Look it up at whois.net. Be wary of newly formed domains. The Trusted Shops Facebook page carries advice and warnings. If you are still in doubt, Trusted Shops will confirm whether they have certified that website: service@trustedshops.co.uk or 0203 364 5906. Always pay with PayPal or a credit card; then you have some payment cover if you don't receive your purchase. And if sale bargains seem too good to be true, they usually are!

Freezing Weather 1: Unless your journey is absolutely essential, stay indoors. If you must travel, make sure you are well prepared. Take a shovel with you and pack warm clothes, food and drink. Make sure you take a mobile phone.

Freezing Weather 2: Check on your vulnerable and older neighbours to ensure that they have sufficient heat and food. If you are worried about them, please contact the police who will ensure the appropriate people are told. If you yourself are feeling vulnerable in any way as a result of the bad weather, please tell your neighbours, friends, relatives, or the police.

Freezing Weather 3: Please do not walk or allow your children to play on frozen water. No matter how thick it looks, ice is never safe and the water is very cold.

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.

Adrian Gillham, Chairman, Repton Neighbourhood Watch, 703340

---

Gardening Notes

My New Year's resolution is to grow less. That may sound odd for a plantaholic, but there is method behind it! In particular, I will be growing fewer vegetables. I hope this means I will not have so much surplus produce; it is easy to grow the veg but harder to process the excess. I seem to be for ever freezing beans and making chutney, much of which I give away. Although it is always gratefully accepted, I suspect that much lurks in the back of recipients' larders.

To grow less, you first need to sow less; it really is much better to sow thinly and also to keep thinning. In 2015 we had a bumper crop of apples, but it would have been nicer if the apples and pears had been a bit bigger, so this year we will also be thinning the fruit that we can reach.

Then you must resist the temptation to buy yet another variety of a favourite plant. Plant breeders are very good at producing series of plants such as crocosmias named after rivers, Zambesi, Okovango, Limpopo and so on. They are all very good, but do you really want them all? There are so many heucheras and hostas nowadays, and they all look so tempting in pots. At Great Dixter, the late Christopher Lloyd replaced many of his euphorbias with euphorbia polychroma major. You often get more impact repeating the same plant several times rather than having different varieties.

My final tip is to allow more space in the garden. Plants are much less inclined to flop if they are given more space. Plants that are overcrowded often become leggy and more prone to disease. Shrubs planted too close together soon become overcrowded: it is better to remove some of them. Jobs for January

January is a quiet time in the garden, a time to browse the seed catalogues from the warmth of the armchair. However, if you are feeling more energetic:


Happy New Year and Good Gardening!