Magazine Archive
   
The Parish Magazine
Repton, Foremark, Milton, Ingleby, Newton Solney
September 2016

Swimming in the same water

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
Saturday 3rd September: Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane
Saturday 10th September: Coffee Morning
Sunday 25th September: Harvest Festival and Harvest Lunch

Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Baptisms
Violet Marie Cassidy
Wilf Michael Karlis Smith
Isabella Catherine Rose Fisher
Darcey Emma Tolley
Emma Leonie Cuthbert
Teddie James Jude Bird

Marriages
David Storer and Melanie Ashby
Martin Ward and Fleur Clark
Benjamin Tomlinson and Alexandra Henderson
Benjamin James Hawtree and Rebecca Goodwin
Mark Anthony Smith and Rebecca Claire Freeman

Marriages in September
Benjamin Peach and Jessica Paling
Robert Smith and Laura Simpson
Richard Whinder of Plaistow and Victoria Robins

Funerals and Burial of Ashes
Dorothy Eunice Tregelles
Ida Smith

The Memorial Book

Repton Benefice
House Groups

St Wystan's News
Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds
'Open the Book'
Messy Church
A 'thank you' tea
Improvements and Repairs

St Mary's News
Newton Solney Harvest Festival

Local Diary

Events
Yard Sale, Saturday 3rd September
Newton Solney Show, Saturday 3rd September
Repton Village Show, Saturday 3rd September
Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th September
RVS Visit to Kingston upon Hull, Saturday 10th September
RSSCV Magnard Ensemble : Roald Dahl Evening, Tuesday 13th September
Milton Lunch Club, Thursday 15th September
Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 21st September
RVH Pig Racing, Saturday 24th September
St Mary's Harvest Lunch, Sunday 25th September
Messy Church, Sunday 25th September
Milton Macmillan Coffee Morning, Friday 30th September
Macmillan Coffee Morning, Saturday 1st October
Melbourne Male Voice Choir, Saturday 1st October
Family Barn Dance, Saturday 8th October

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

Repton Village Hall Appeal
Pig Racing, Saturday 24th September
100 Club

Repton Village and History
Soccer School
Repton Casuals Fixtures
Repton Village Show
Family Barn Dance with Bonnyrigg
Scottish Dancing
A big month for Scouts!
Plans for council-built homes in Repton
Repton W.I.
Repton Village Society
Repton Village History Group
Charity Abseil, 25th September
Books, Browse and Coffee
Mobile Library
Army Cadets
Gold!
Road Closures
RBL Thank you
Repton Parish Council

Milton & Foremark Village Matters
Edward's Quiz
Macmillan Coffee Morning
Milton W.I.

Newton Solney Village Matters
Newton Solney C of E Infant School
A Fantastic Result ~ Newton Solney Summer Party
Newton Solney Tuesday Club
Newton Solney Parish Council
Target Shooting

Willington Surgery
A new GP
Seasonal Influenza Vaccines
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Shingles Vaccine

South Derbyshire
Get Active in the Forest ~ Rosliston Forestry Centre
Heritage Open Days
South Derbyshire Sports Awards

You and your Pet
Man's Best Friend
Cats Protection

Neighbourhood Watch
Sheer Vandalism

Gardening Notes


Swimming in the same water

There was great rejoicing at Repton Swimming pool when Adam Peaty won his Olympic gold: he regularly trains here with Derby Swimming Club so many felt connected to his victory. Unfortunately, just swimming in the same water doesn't improve the performance of the rest of us!

It's been fantastic to see the success of so many members of in Team GB. All the athletes in the Games reach their goal as a result of their individual commitment to training, building up their strength, improving their technique, eating the right food, and being disciplined in their personal lives. They may have been born with favourable genes or inspired by the people around them, but in the end, their own development of their talent with the support of their coach and the encouragement of their team is what matters. And, as with investments, past success is not a guarantee of future performance! Ongoing effort is essential to keep up the standards.

This seems to me to be something of a parallel with being a Christian. In Britain, in spite of recent changes, we have a strong heritage of Christianity. Marks of this include our church buildings, over 400 years of the Bible in many English translations, and many of our traditions such as Christmas and Easter. But just as sharing the same water doesn't make me a good swimmer, just sharing this culture doesn't make a Christian.

We may have Christians among our family or friends, or been taught about the faith or baptised as a child. All this can help and inspire us, but it is no substitute for a personal commitment to follow the Lord Jesus Christ who, Christians believe, gave his life so that we can truly live. This life is what the apostle Paul, as recorded in the Bible, was referring to when he used imagery from the Games: 'I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself . . . I forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. So I run straight towards the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call in Christ Jesus to the life above.' That is something really worth committing to.

Messy Church in September picks up the Olympic theme in its various activities as we explore what 'Team Jesus' could mean. It is open to all ages, and everyone is welcome; see page 29 for details. And if you would like to find out more about the Christian faith, contact someone from one of our local churches. We would be very happy to hear from you.
Ruth Attwood


Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

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

EVERY Wednesday
	10 am	Holy Communion

Sunday 4th	Trinity 15
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Worship Together
	11 am	No service
	6.30 pm	Taizι

Sunday 11th	Trinity 16
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Parish Communion
	6.30 pm	Evening Prayer

Sunday 18th	Trinity 17
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Parish Communion
	6.30 pm	Choral Evensong

Sunday 25th	Trinity 18
	8 am	Holy Communion
	9.45 am	Parish Communion
	10.45am	Prayer for Healing
	4 pm	Messy Church
St Saviour's, Foremark
Sunday 11th	Trinity 16
	6.30 pm	Evening Prayer

Sunday 25th	Trinity 18
	6.30 pm	Holy Communion
St Mary's, Newton Solney
Sunday 4th	Trinity 15
	10 am	Parish Communion with 50th Celebrations

Sunday 11th	Trinity 16
	10 am	Worship Together with Holy Baptism
	
Sunday 18th	Trinity 17
	10 am	Parish Communion

Sunday 25th	Trinity 18
	10 am	Harvest Service

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's
11th	9.45 am	1 Timothy 1: 12 - 17	Morag Hill
		Intercessions:		Stephen Longden
		Offertory:		Morag & Fred Hill

18th	9.45 am	1 Timothy 2: 1 - 7	Meri Braziel
		Intercessions:		Melodie Bordoli
		Offertory:		Meri Braziel & Ben Swoyer

25th	9.45 am	1 Timothy 6: 6 - 19 	Sue Parker
		Intercessions:		Ruth Attwood
		Offertory:		Sue Parker & Karen Wells


Altar Flowers
Frances Wimbush, 703180
4th: Pat Masson. 11th: Morag Hill. 18th: Wedding. 25th: Jan Roberts.


Brasses
Sue Parker, 702550
Melodie Bordoli.


Altar Flowers & Cleaning at St Saviour's
Ann Redfern, 01332 862350
11th: Mary Redfern & Jane. 25th: Clare Weaver.


The United Reformed Church

Minister: Rev'd Brian Norris
4th September
	11 am	Morning Worship
	6.30 pm	Service at Fisher Close Community Centre

11th September
	11 am	Morning Worship

18th September
	11 am	Morning Worship with Holy Communion

25th September	Harvest Festival
	11 am	Family Service
	6.30 pm	Holy Communion

Saturday 3rd September: Yard Sale at 5 Monsom Lane
Proceeds to Cancer Research, Repton Royal British Legion and the United Reformed Church. Everyone welcome: don't miss the amazing bargains! We still need donations of items to sell, large or small; please ring 701581 to arrange collection.


Saturday 10th September: Coffee Morning, 10.30 - 11.30 am
Come and join us for coffee, catch up with the news of the summer, meet friends and enjoy the goodies on sale. Everyone welcome!


Sunday 25th September: Harvest Festival and Harvest Lunch
The morning service is for all the family and will be followed by a Harvest Lunch to which everyone is invited. The evening service will include Holy Communion.
'Come, ye thankful people come – raise the song of Harvest Home!'


Baptisms

Violet Marie Cassidy, daughter of Samantha and Daniel Cassidy of Clayfields, Repton, was baptised on Sunday 24th July at St Wystan's Church.

Wilf Michael Karlis Smith, son of Michael Smith and Elisabeth Hackett of North Street, Melbourne, was baptised on Sunday 24th July at St Saviour's Church.

Isabella Catherine Rose Fisher, daughter of James and Johanne Fisher of Askew Drive, Repton, was baptised on Saturday 6th August at St Wystan's Church.

Darcey Emma Tolley, daughter of Amy and Paul, was baptised on Saturday 6th August at a ceremony in the garden of their home in Nottingham.

Emma Leonie Cuthbert, daughter of Jack and Vanessa Cuthbert of Askew Grove, Repton, was baptised on Sunday 7th August at St Wystan's Church.

Teddie James Jude Bird, son of David and Sarah Bird of Milton Road, Repton, was baptised on Sunday 14th August at St Wystan's Church.

We welcome them into the Church family.


Marriages

David Storer and Melanie Ashby of Repton Road, Bretby, were married at St Wystan's Church on Wednesday 3rd August.

Martin Ward and Fleur Clark of Longlands, Repton, were married at St Wystan's Church on Friday 5th August.

Benjamin Tomlinson and Alexandra Henderson of Station Road, Mickleover, were married at St Saviour's Church on Saturday 6th August.

Benjamin James Hawtree and Rebecca Goodwin of Ruddington are to be married at St Saviour's Church on Saturday 27th August.

Mark Anthony Smith and Rebecca Claire Freeman of Alvaston are to be married at St Wystan's Church on Sunday 28th August.
Marriages in September
Saturday 10th St Mary's Church at 12.00 noon Benjamin Peach and Jessica Paling of Rosemount Road, Burton upon Trent
Saturday 17th St Wystan's Church at 1.30 pm Robert Smith and Laura Simpson of Kildrummy Close, Chellaston
Saturday 24th St Mary's Church at ??? Richard Whinder of Plaistow and Victoria Robins of Bretby Lane, Bretby

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


Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Dorothy Eunice Tregelles died on Sunday 24th July at Prestbury Beaumont Nursing Home, Collar House Lane, Prestbury, aged 97. A funeral service at St Mary's, Newton Solney, on 27th July was followed by interment in St Mary's churchyard.

The ashes of Ida Smith, formerly of Summerfields Rest Home, Burton on Trent, who died on 20th April 2016 aged 95, were interred in the grave of her sister, Edna Ellwood, in St Wystan's churchyard on Thursday 18th August.

We offer our sympathy to their families and friends.


The Memorial Book

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

Please contact us.


Repton Benefice

House Groups
'An Ordinary Day with Jesus' is a scripture-based course which helps us to integrate our faith with our daily lives by inviting Jesus to walk with us through everyday events. At Wendy and Stephen Longden's house, Woodend Cottage, 134 Main Street, it starts on 8th September at 7.30 pm, with the next meeting on the 29th. Ruth Attwood and Julia Stentoft's group at 28 The Pastures will start the same course on 15th September, also at 7.30 pm, followed by a second meeting on the 22nd. If you would like to join one of the groups, or for more details, contact Wendy and Stephen on 703259, or Julia on 704436.

Intercessory Prayer for Healing meets at 3 Richmond Court at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 6th September. If you would like us to pray for you or for someone you know, please contact Wendy Longden on 703259.


St Wystan's News

Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds
9.45 am at St Wystan's Church
Sunday Club meets 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.


'Open the Book'
If you have a child starting at Repton Primary or St Wystan's School this term, you may soon hear them singing the theme song of 'Open the Book'. This is part of a national project to enable children to hear, enjoy and understand the relevance of the Bible today.

Each Tuesday morning a small team from St Wystan's Church takes an assembly for children in KS1 and presents a Bible story with the help of simple props, costumes and mime, puppets or pictures. The children often help with the drama or join in with an action song. Most of the stories are based on those in 'The Lion Storyteller Bible' retold by Bob Hartman and available from bookshops. Do ask your children to tell you more or contact me for further information.


Messy Church
If you are interested in exploring more about the Bible and the Christian faith with your family, we'd love to invite you to join us at Messy Church. Families come together once a month at St Wystan's Church to enjoy meeting one another, sharing in a variety of fun and creative activities, celebrating God together, with Bible story, music and prayer followed by eating tea together.

Messy Church at Repton is part of an international network of thousands of Messy Churches – you can find out more at messychurch.org.uk. It takes place on the fourth Sunday of most months from 4 to 5.30 pm. Check the Parish Magazine or notices at the school gate for details. Everyone is welcome, children of all ages with parents or grandparents, whether you have been to church before or not. To find out more, do contact me Ruth Attwood – or just turn up!


A 'thank you' tea
. . . in August was just a small token of our deep appreciation of those who help to ensure that St Wystan's Church is attractive and welcoming, and also of those who help with the Parish Magazine. A large number gathered to eat the cakes and scones – and to chat! The Vicar expressed both his own thanks and those of the PCC for all that they do; volunteers have a very special place in the heart of this community.


Improvements and Repairs
St Wystan's Church Building and Churchyard committee currently has several projects in hand. In the north aisle, three pews have been removed to provide an area for young children to play quietly with their parents during the service. The Archdeacon has allowed us a temporary licence to carry out the work and store the pews while we work out the best arrangement before applying for a permanent faculty. The space has already proved very useful during our recent afternoon tea party when it was filled with adults enjoying tea and cake.

The Parvise Room above the porch is currently used for storage, but we are looking to reorganize it so that it can also be used for Sunday Club and the occasional meeting. Children in a wide range of ages come to Sunday Club, and we want to separate the age groups so they all benefit more from the teaching. We recognize that this can only be a fairly short term expedient as access is via steep stairs.

The next major work is to renew the chancel roof using where possible the existing clay tiles on new battens. This is now urgent: tiles are beginning to slip as the nails rot. We have been fortunate to obtain a grant of £10,000 from the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund and £2,000 from the Derbyshire Churches and Chapels Preservation Trust towards the cost. The work is due to start on 30th August and take 3 to 4 weeks. While they are on site, the contractors will also carry out minor repairs to the nave roof and investigate a drainage problem on the north side of the church. The church will remain open as usual during the work but areas may be cordoned off at times.

Over the next few months we will be looking at improving security and at a much needed new lighting scheme. The existing light fittings and shades date from 1964; they have deteriorated, cannot be replaced and do not provide adequate lighting for the varied activities which now take place in the church. We are hoping to provide much better and more flexible lighting for services, as well as for concerts and other occasions when we welcome people from the wider community.

We believe that existing funds, including money earmarked from a legacy, will just stretch to cover all these projects. New floodlighting, mentioned in last month's Parish Magazine, is also being considered but will have to wait until money becomes available.

If you would like to know more about any of these initiatives, please talk to one of the churchwardens.


St Mary's News

Newton Solney Harvest Festival
. . . will be celebrated on Sunday 25th September, at the 10 am service, with the Harvest Lunch to follow at 1.30. We will start to decorate the church in the middle of the previous week in anticipation of the school and pre-school services; hence contributions of produce, flowers or foliage would be welcomed by Wednesday 21st September. They can be left in the baptistry, though anyone planning to attend the Sunday service may prefer to bring offerings of produce, dry goods or toiletries with them.

During the following week all gifts will be distributed locally, or to the Padley Centre or the Derby City Mission. Cash donations will be sent to the Bishop's Harvest Appeal, this year to supply needs in North India.


Yard Sale at 2, 3 & 5 Monsom Lane

Saturday 3rd September from 9 am

Fantastic assorted items for sale. Everybody welcome.

If you have any contributions, please call 701726 for collection.
We take most household things to sell.

All proceeds to charity!



Newton Solney Show

Saturday 3rd September in Newton Solney Village Hall

Details, schedules & entry forms from Chris Freestone, 01283 701147

Support your Village Show!



Repton Village Show

Saturday 3rd September in Repton Village Hall

Staging entries 10 to 11.45 am : Show open to the public from 2.30
Prize-giving 3.15 : Auction and raffle 3.30

Schedules & entry forms at the Post Office or the Show on the day

Support your Village Show!



Soup, Cheese and Chat!

Wednesday 7th September from 12.30 to 1.30 pm in St Wystan's Church

£4.   Homemade soup, bread, cheese, a chance to borrow books - and chat!

Everyone welcome. Do come!



Repton Village Society

Visit to Kingston upon Hull

UK City of Culture, 2017

Saturday 10th September, depart St Wystan's Church at 8.30 am

Once a major, wealthy port, Hull has many fine, interesting buildings.

Coffee in the former Seaman's Mission. Optional guided walking tour of the Old Town.
Free time to shop, visit the museums or The Deep, or just to have a long lunch.
Travel via the Humber Bridge. Return to Repton about 6 pm. Maps provided.

Tickets £16 from Alan Webster, 01283 701838.   Non-members most welcome.



Repton School Concerts Society

Magnard Ensemble : Roald Dahl Evening
Narrator : Rebecca Kenny

TUESDAY 13th September at 7.45 in THE 400 HALL

2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Old Reptonian Roald Dahl. In celebration, The Magnard Ensemble with narrator Rebecca Kenny, will explore his stories through the spoken word, theatre and live music.

The Magnard Ensemble are steadily building a reputation for high quality concert performances and dynamic educational projects in London and around the UK.

This project has been devised in partnership with composer Paul Patterson, approved by the Roald Dahl Literary Estate and Marvellous Children's Charity, and is generously supported by the City Music Foundation.

Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions).
Season tickets cost £75.

For further information or tickets contact Sue Parker,
56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR



Milton Lunch Club

Thursday 15th September, 12.30 pm in Milton Village Hall.   £5.

Contact Lynn, 704540, Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436

Everyone welcome wherever you live! If you need transport, let us know



Books, Browse and Coffee

Wednesday 21st September, 11 am - noon in St Wystan's Church
and every 3rd Wednesday in the month

Coffee and biscuits £1
A chat and a chance to borrow books and jigsaws
Loans are free

Also at the first Wednesday 'Soup, Cheese and Chat'



Repton Village Hall Appeal Saturday 24th September at Repton Village Hall

Pig Racing

An evening of laughter and excitement
from 7.30 pm, first race at 8

Raffle.           Pig auction.
Hot food, snacks & soft drinks available to buy.
Bring your own booze & glasses.

Tickets £5, under 12s £2.50, from Redshaw's Butchers,
Mulberry Beauty Salon and Jo Hinton



St Mary's Church Newton Solney, invites you to join us for

Harvest Lunch

Sunday 25th September at 1.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall

Raffle       Good Food       Good Company
Please bring your own drinks - glasses provided!

Tickets from Hazel Ward (701244) 21 Blacksmith's Lane
Adults £10      Children under 12 £5



Messy Church

Activities, celebration and food for all the family

St Wystan's Church, Sunday 25th September, 4 to 5.30 pm

To find out more, email Messy Church or call Ruth Attwood.

Everyone is welcome!   Come along and try it!



Milton Coffee Morning

in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support

The Swan Inn, Friday 30th September at 10.30 am

Entrance £3 to include coffee and cake



Coffee Morning

in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support

Saturday 1st October, 10 am – noon
9 The Crescent, Repton

Stalls, Bric-a-Brac, Books, Raffle, Tombola, Toys

Donations, prizes and anything for the above would be greatly appreciated.
Phone Sue on 701619, or leave them in the front porch at the above address.



St Wystan's Church, Saturday 1st October at 7 pm

Melbourne Male Voice Choir
with The Sherwin Singers

in a varied programme including traditional male voice items,
music from the shows, and individual performances.

Tickets £7.50, children free, from Carol Lloyd and Jan Roberts



Family Barn Dance

with the live music of Bonnyrigg
Do come and join in ~ ALL welcome!

Saturday 8th October, 7 to 10.30 pm in Repton Village Hall

Tickets: £10     Under 14 £5     Family ticket (2+2) £25
from Frances Wimbush

Baked Potato Supper included

Bar & Raffle


The Great War Commemorated

100 years ago, life went on
During the end of July and the beginning of August we had (1) The Children's Flower Service, at which a beautiful lot of flowers, fruit, &c., were presented for the wounded at Derby Infirmary. (2) The Day School Treat. Owing to the generous impulse of the boys and girls no tea was held this year – the amount, £5 10s., being forwarded to the Infirmary. The usual races were held. (3) The Choir Boys and I had a very pleasant day at Matlock Bath. Your faithful friend and Vicar, Stephen Selwyn
V.A.D.
It is with great pleasure that we are able to record that sixteen of the members of our Voluntary Aid detachment have now done duty at the Royal Infirmary, Derby, in helping to nurse our sick and wounded from the front. Others have also taken their turn at the Red Cross Hospital, Spondon, for convalescent soldiers, and the Devonshire Hospital, Buxton. We hope that others may be encouraged by their example.
Mothers' Meeting
The Summer Tea and Entertainment took place in the Rink. After an excellent tea three short duologues were acted. The party then adjourned to Mrs. Gurney's garden and amused themselves with games until 7.30, when they dispersed after giving three cheers for Mrs. Gurney and Miss Kidd and singing the National Anthem. (abbreviated)


Repton Village Hall Appeal

Pig Racing
Saturday 24th September, 7.30 for 8 pm
Join us in Repton village hall for a very different and exciting evening. To find out what actually happens you will have to come, but we can guarantee that no pigs will be harmed! There will be seven races and plenty of opportunity to back your fancy. Soft drinks, snacks and hot food will be on sale, but do bring your own booze and glasses. Tickets at £5, under 12s £2.50, are available from Redshaws Butchers, Mulberry Beauty Salon and Jo Hinton.

Later this autumn there are two more adult events, a Wine Tasting Evening on Saturday 22nd October, followed by Beer and Skittles on Saturday 19th November. (Is there a common theme here?) Contact Adrian Argyle for tickets.

For children up to 11 the Children's Halloween Party on Saturday 29th October is always a great success, but you do need to book early. Tickets at £5 are available from Elaine Newbold or Sue Kitchener.

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 Hall Appeal 100 Club
. . . is now in full swing, with the monthly draw taking place at the Boot. Contact Adrian Argyle on 01283 701277 or aargyle@argylefrics.co.uk for an application form and copy of the club rules. The quarterly subscription is only £12.50.


Repton Village & History

Soccer School, Repton Casuals
A reminder that we restart at Broomhills Lane Playing Field on Saturday 10th September at 10 am. All children, girls and boys, in reception or school years one or two are welcome.

The basic skills of soccer, preparing for junior team football, are taught through small-sided games in a safe and friendly environment. Refreshments are available, there are toilets and plenty of space to park. For further information, please phone Bob Errington on 701183, or Dave Jacobs, 701361.

Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane
    Team Opponents
4th 10.30 am Repton Lions FC Grange
18th 10.30 am Repton Lions Marlborough Rovers Res
Repton Village Show, Saturday 3rd September, Repton Village Hall
The annual Village Show takes place on the first Saturday in September. This is an amateur show; anyone can enter. There are classes to suit everyone, and we particularly welcome entries from children: it is a great way to spark the imagination of a new generation.

It's not at all intimidating; we are all amateurs when it comes to baking, making jams and chutneys, or to creating pictures and handicrafts – and vegetables, fruit and flowers usually depend on what we find in the garden.

It costs only 20p an item. If you have lost the schedule of classes, you can pick one up now, together with an entry form, from the Post Office, or at the show on the day. Garden produce, baking, preserves, handicrafts and photographs, need to be 'staged' in the morning between 10 and 11.45.am. Then you go home for lunch during the judging and come back at 2.30 to see all the exhibits before the prize-giving, auction and raffle.

If you look around, we are certain you will find something you can enter, so come and join in the fun!


Family Barn Dance with Bonnyrigg
Repton village hall, Friday 8th October, 7 - 10.30 pm
The music is infectious, full of life and vitality; you just have to get on your feet. Anybody and everyone can barn dance, young and old, and Mike Gentles of Bonnyrig is the finest caller in the business. A great evening is guaranteed for all ages.

Tickets cost £10, children £5, and there is a family ticket (2 adults plus 2 children) at £25. For that you get not merely a really fun evening, but also a baked potato supper. You pay for the bar, but prices are reasonable.

Do book your tickets early; they always sell quickly – and it helps the caterers! Contact Frances Wimbush.


Scottish Dancing
After a break for the summer, Scottish Dancing resumes in September. We are a friendly and informal group who enjoy unravelling some of the better known Scottish reels. All you need is a pair of soft soled shoes (not trainers) and a sense of humour.

The new dancing 'season' starts on Monday 26th September from 7.15 to 9 pm, and then we are in Repton village hall on the last Monday of each month through to March. £3 per head. Contact Frances Wimbush, or just come along. Newcomers are always very welcome.


A big month for Scouts!
August was a big month for some of the Scouts for three big reasons: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon were all attempted by seven Scouts, with three others joining us for part of the four day trip. What a great achievement, almost exactly three years after five of them as 9 and 10 year olds completed the challenging Yorkshire Three Peaks Walk.

Regular Wednesday evening Scout meetings start again on 7th September with a few weeks of outdoor activities including fire lighting and canoeing before the light evenings are gone. Then the Scout programme continues into the autumn with activities working towards the Creative Challenge Badge, and a camp at Kibblestone International Scout Campsite and Outdoor Activity Centre in Staffordshire.

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

Plans for council-built homes in Repton
According to a recent press report, Derbyshire County Council has earmarked the site it owns in Fisher Close for 10 homes. (If confirmed, this must refer to The Dales as the land in Fisher Close is owned by SDDC.) DCC is setting up a company to generate income for the cash-strapped authority, as well as providing housing. Once built the homes would be sold to their owners. The county council needs to cut £157 million from its overall budget by 2018.

The proposal appears to conflict with the emerging Repton Neighbourhood Plan. Reflecting your responses to recent questionnaires, this is likely to argue that, in line with previous plans, the area should be re-developed to house elderly people, with priority given to Repton residents.


Repton W.I.
After a cloudy morning, a celebration of the Queen's 90th birthday and our own 98th was greeted with warm sunshine when Jenny and David Jones kindly hosted our August garden party in their lovely garden. Members and friends enjoyed Pimms, strawberries and cream, as well as sandwiches and cake.

Now we look forward to the next evening meeting on Tuesday 13th September when Clive Katz will introduce us to the National Trust Back-to-Back houses in Birmingham, followed by a visit to the houses later in the month.

At the following meeting on Tuesday 11th October we have our Annual Meeting and elect the committee. This year our President, who has completed an extra year, is standing down so we will be looking for a replacement. We will also be enjoying Fizz and Chips.

We welcome visitors and new members to all our meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.15 pm in Repton village hall.
Jan Roberts


Repton Village Society
Thursday 1st September, Repton village hall at 7.30 pm

Wendy Foley will give an introduction to the work of 'Medical Detection Dogs', remarkable animals that have been trained to sniff out cancer or detect changes in the medical condition of people with life-threatening illnesses such as diabetes. The charity was established in 2008 by Dr Claire Guest, a psychologist specialising in the interaction between human and canine behaviour.

Saturday 10th September, depart St Wystan's Church at 8.30 am

In the past Kingston upon Hull was a major, wealthy port. It has many fine, interesting buildings, and has been chosen as the UK's City of Culture for 2017.

After coffee in the former Seaman's Mission, now a pub, members of Hull Civic Society have kindly agreed to lead us on a walking tour of the Old Town. The walk will take about 75 minutes over flat ground. Then there will be free time after lunch to return to the area, go shopping, visit the Wilberforce, Transport or Maritime Museums – all free admission – or The Deep, a large, modern aquarium, concessions £10.75, or just to have a long lunch before leaving at 4 pm to be back in Repton, via the Humber Bridge again, for about 6 pm. Maps will be provided and the walk is of course optional. Non-members are most welcome. Tickets £16 from Alan Webster.


Repton Village History Group
Our next meeting is on Tuesday 20th September when we have two short talks. Chris Pegg will be giving the second part of his talk on Wooden Box (Woodville), and Paul Heapy's talk is entitled 'Two Fields'. All are welcome at 7.30 pm in the village hall – members £2, visitors £3.

Visit to Catton Hall

In August, sixteen folk visited Catton Hall for the second of this year's history group outings. Owned before the Conquest by Sinward, the land was given to Nigel d'Albini by William the Conqueror and held by him until 1405 when it was sold to the Horton family, who have owned it and lived there ever since.

Our guide was Katie Nielson, the wife of the current owner, who is a descendant of the Hortons. The house was rebuilt in the 1740s, and externally not much has changed since then. It is very much a family home, shared by two generations of the family for many years. Robin and Katie's son was married there in the little chapel just a couple of weeks ago; when they return from honeymoon, they will also be living there in part of the house. Internal changes have taken place over the years including the ambitious removal in the 1820s of the pillars in the original entrance hall, which necessitated the suspension of the upper floor on cables. The house contains many pieces of antique furniture and pictures by important artists. There are also fascinating family connections with Lord Byron, as well as with Napoleon and the Duke of Cumberland, the brother of George III.

After a tour of the ground floor of the house and the gardens, situated beside the River Trent and looking out over the ha-ha across the estate, we finished in the small Victorian Chapel of Ease, which replaced an earlier Norman chapel. This was followed by very nice afternoon tea and cakes.

Farming was a major source of income for the estate, but nowadays this is limited to some agriculture and a beef unit. The estate has developed many other sources of income including music festivals, sports events, shooting, fishing and equestrian events – including carriage driving – as well as hosting conferences and private groups.

Katie was a knowledgeable guide, and it was good to recognise that this lovely house and estate is thriving and has a secure future as a family home, which we felt privileged to see.

For further information on the History Group, contact Andy Austen.


Charity Abseil, 25th September
For over twenty years I have organised annual charity abseils from Miller's Dale Bridge in the Peak District, principally to raise money for Friedreich's Ataxia and the Multiple Sclerosis Trust but for other charities too if abseilers so wish.

Abseiling and picnicking together is tremendous fun, shared by many different people from different social areas. We come together as strangers to raise money for research to help beat the crippling effects of various diseases and medical conditions, and we leave as friends who have shared a confrontation with fear that shrank until it became a laughable memory, giving people confidence and a huge sense of achievement. The event has also helped to integrate disabled and more able-bodied people; in 1995 when I started, society wasn't as accepting as it has now become.

Friedreich's Ataxia is a degenerative, hereditary disease which develops slowly over many years, causing progressive damage to the nervous system, and the MS Trust not only does valuable research into finding a cure but also provides a wonderful service, training and providing specialist nurses in hospitals throughout the country.

Sadly, with the deterioration in my multiple sclerosis, I am no longer able to walk, and this must be my last abseil. If you feel able to support me, please sign my sponsorship form in the Post Office, Willington Pharmacy or Willington Surgery, or bring it to 60 Askew Grove, Repton. All money raised will be sent directly to the charities.

If you would like any further information about the event or the charity, please call me on 01283 702262.
Beverley R. Bowman


Books, Browse and Coffee
From 11 am to 12 on the third Wednesday of each month, there is a 'Books, Browse and Coffee' morning (BBC) in St Wystan's Church, where books can be borrowed or bought; there are also jigsaws to borrow. They are again available at our monthly 'Soup and Cheese' lunch on the first Wednesday in the month, so books can be changed roughly every fortnight.

Three double-sided bookshelves, donated by local schools, house over 1,000 books, organised by category, and covering a wide range. Fiction and crime are the largest sections, but biography, history and travel also feature strongly. The books have been donated from within the community, with new ones appearing regularly, which enables us to offer a continually changing selection.
BBC is open to all
The project has now been going for a year, and has as many regulars from outside the church congregation as within it. We meet and chat over coffee, tea and biscuits whilst borrowing books or buying them.

We have found that the event also acts as a useful, informal contact point for those who have just come to the area, and want to know more, and it is particularly valuable for elderly residents in the village.

An added bonus has been the ability to liaise with the Friday Luncheon group and offer books there. They have always had a few books, but we can now change them regularly and offer a bigger selection.

We are very grateful to the volunteers within and beyond the church community who help with the books and in the kitchen. If you would like to know more, why not drop in. Alternatively contact Carol Lloyd. And if you would like to help, so much the better!


Mobile Library Tuesday 20th September

Repton village hall, 10.15-11.30 : The Square, 11.35-1.00

The library has a four-weekly timetable – not monthly. Its next visit will be on 18th October. For the Long Eaton base, contact 01629 531398; for the van, 0780 904 4405.


Army Cadets: Ticknall Village Hall, Thursdays from 7.30 pm
For action and adventure, fun and friendship, the Army Cadet Force is hard to beat. With 41,000 cadets and 9,500 adults in more than 1,600 locations around the UK, the Army Cadets make a big impact on young people, parents and local communities.

Join us as a cadet (aged 12-18) and you will experience new challenges that will help you to become more independent and confident. You will learn military themed skills such as shooting, drill and fieldcraft, be able to take part in adventurous sports, first aid training and The Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The range of opportunities is huge and we inspire you to achieve!

Join as an adult volunteer and we'll give you all the training you need to make a real difference to young people in your community, earn recognised qualifications and make lifelong friends. Open Evening, Thursday 15th September We are holding an activity-filled open evening on Thursday 15th September but if you can't make that, then please visit us any week to see what we get up to!
Paul Thomas, Detachment Commander, 07748 332058, www.armycadets.com


Gold!
In her introduction this month, Ruth has mentioned the School and village's link to Adam Peaty who so thrillingly broke his own world record on his way to Olympic gold in the 100m breaststroke. Adam trains up to eight times a week at the School, working with the School swimming coach, Melanie Marshall.

And five former Repton pupils also won medals in Rio, all in women’s hockey, though not all on the same side. Georgie Twigg in her second Olympics was joined in the gold medal winning GB squad by Shona McCallin, Joie Leigh and Ellie Watton, whilst Charlotte Stapenhorst was a member of the German squad that won bronze.

This is the third successive Olympics to feature Old Reptonians in the women's hockey. Georgie Twigg won bronze in London in 2012 and, while still a pupil at Repton, Charlotte Craddock was a member of the squad that competed in Beijing in 2008.

This crowns a hugely successful season for Repton hockey: both boys and girls reached the national finals at all three age ranges, with both Under 18 teams taking gold. The girls have now held the national title for a record-breaking nine times since 2005, and Repton teams have been crowned national champions 30 times since 1995.


Road Closures
The frustration for Mill Hill residents continues. Following the complete closure of the southern end of Mount Pleasant Road during August for drainage excavation, DCC has announced that it will be closed from 24th August to 2nd November between 8 am and 6 pm for work on road widening. Diversions are being signposted. If work is completed earlier the road will reopen then.

Until 12th September part of the A511 Ashby Road will remain closed to all eastbound traffic between the Swan Junction at Burton's Trent Bridge and the Brizlincote Valley roundabout. This is a very busy commuter route and serious delays in getting into and out of Burton are to be expected.


Thank you – well done!
Repton & District Royal British Legion
In early June, Andy Brooks raised in excess of £1,000 for Repton and District Poppy Appeal. Andy, a resident of Willington and member of Shelton Striders Running Club, wanted to do something to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme and to raise money for the British Legion which had played such a big part in the life of his late father.

The plan was to run from Staffordshire to Belgium, where he would take part in the Night of Flanders Marathon. Running between 35 and 40 miles each day, his route took him from the National Memorial Arboretum through Rugby, Milton Keynes, Watford, London, and Dover before he boarded a ferry to Calais, on to Dunkirk and finally on to Torhout in Belgium, where he was joined by several members of his club for the Night of Flanders Marathon. In all he covered almost 325 miles in nine days and raised a total of £1,256.25 for the Legion, a great achievement.


Repton Parish Council
As the Parish Council does not meet during August, I am taking the opportunity to outline some of the services it offers.

The Parish Council is there to serve residents of the Parish. Councillors give their time freely and without payment. They have a wide range of powers and the ability to raise funds through the precept, which forms a very small percentage of the local Council Tax. Councillors do however have to work within an ever more regulated framework.

Local residents are welcome to attend Parish Council meetings which are held monthly except during August, and the two Parish meetings in March and September. Before the start of official business, members of the public have briefly the opportunity to ask questions or make statements.

Planning Applications: Local planning applications are reviewed at each meeting. The Parish Council has expressed objections to many of the recent applications and fully supports the production of the Neighbourhood Development Plan.

Summer Holiday Activities: The Parish Council is pleased to continue its provision of summer play facilities for local young people, organised in conjunction with South Derbyshire District Council. These offer a range of activities on the Mitre Field and are free of charge.

Footpath Maintenance: Public footpaths are regular topics at monthly meetings. If you have concerns about the state of a footpath, we can report them on your behalf to Derbyshire County Council. In an arrangement with DCC, we also regularly maintain many of the local paths ourselves. Whilst SDDC is responsible for cleaning the pavements throughout the village, the Parish Council does finance an additional sweep of Main Street in the autumn, to assist with clearing leaves and other debris.

Milton Meeting: Once a year, in September, the regular monthly meeting takes place in Milton. We welcome the opportunity to meet local residents and offer them the opportunity to attend a meeting locally.

The Arboretum: The existing trees have now become established and there is room for a few more trees to be planted this autumn. If you would like to dedicate a tree, please contact me for further details.

Allotments: 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 possible that there will be plots available. The autumn is an ideal time to think about cultivating an allotment next spring. If you are interested, please contact me in the Parish Council office.

Should you require further information on these or other topics, please contact me. Office hours are Mondays, 1 - 4 pm, and Wednesdays, 2 - 6 pm. An answerphone is available.

Next meeting: Monday 12th September in Milton village hall – Parish Meeting at 7 pm, followed by the Parish Council Meeting at 7.30. All are welcome.
Susan Reilly, Clerk to the Council

Parish Council Office, 40 High Street



Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Edward's Quiz
In July there was a full house at Milton village hall for the annual quiz devised by Edward Baker. There were taxing questions and a lot of good humoured banter.

Thank you to the ladies who provided the excellent refreshments and to Edward for organising the event. All profits, £160, will go to Milton village hall.

To hire Milton village hall, contact Polly Faulkner.


Macmillan Coffee Morning
Friday 30th September, 10 30 am at The Swan Inn in Milton
Come along and be part of the biggest coffee morning in the world in aid of Macmillan Cancer support. You will be welcomed by our very own District Nurse.

Bring your pre-loved accessories to our swishing sale, purchase delicious home-made cakes from our cake stall and, if you are feeling lucky, try to guess how many spots are on the cake. There will also be a raffle to win a hand-made celebration cake. The entrance fee of £3 includes coffee and cake. Let's change lives with every slice!


Milton W.I.
In August seven members joined Willington W.I.'s coach trip to Bletchley Park, and the the following week nine members enjoyed a very interesting and informative tour of The Roundhouse in Derby, followed by a delicious lunch in The Engine Shed restaurant.

Our next meeting is on Wednesday 21st September at 7.30 pm in Milton village hall. Sue Hyde's talk is 'How to dress your shape'. Visitors are always welcome.


Newton Solney Village Matters

Newton Solney C of E Infant School
Community Collective Worship for parents, carers and local residents is usually on the first Thursday of the month at 9.15 am. However, the next will not be until 6th October when we would welcome you to join us in the school hall. Heidi Elks


A Fantastic Result ~ Newton Solney Summer Party
On a pleasant summer's evening, the Summer Party was an altogether lovely occasion. In an elegant marquee in the grounds of Rock House, with music from the Bodger's Mate contributing to the warm, relaxed atmosphere, it was also a huge financial success raising just over £4,500 – at last we can hopefully get something done soon about the church drive.

We would particularly like to thank Roger Kerry for all his help, the Winery for their excellent catering, those who donated the splendid raffle prizes, Mr. & Mrs. Shilton for letting us use their field to park, and of course, all you who attended for your very generous support.
Hazel Ward


Newton Solney Tuesday Club
In July our annual long trip was a journey on the Birmingham Canals with a meal on the boat. We arrived in time for everyone to take a leisurely stroll around the canal-side developments and have coffee, before embarking on the 2 hour cruise which took us through the old industrial heartland of Birmingham, into the countryside and back to the city centre. The weather was perfect, and even the fact that we had to balance lunch on our knees during the cruise added to the fun. To add further to our enjoyment, the food served was excellent. In all it was a very successful day out.

Tuesday, 6th September: 2.30 pm in Newton Solney village hall

A business meeting followed by a talk by Colin Bagshaw on the Shetland and Orkney Isles.

Tuesday 20th September: A trip to Southwell

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

For further information about Tuesday Club or our outings, please contact our Secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520.
Rachel Freeman, Chairman


Newton Solney Parish Council
Annual Village Cricket Match, Sunday 28th August from 2.30 pm – bring your picnic down to the Recreation Field and cheer the teams along!

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


Target Shooting
Newton Solney Rifle Club is looking for new members, experienced or not, to shoot .22 rifles indoors at the village hall. Equipment and tuition provided. For more details phone Ray Hill on 01283 716003.


Willington Surgery

At the beginning of August we welcomed to the practice a new salaried GP, Dr. Iain Maronge. He has a great interest in outdoor activities, and will no doubt be encouraging some of us not so fit members of the team to move around more.
Seasonal Influenza Vaccines
If you are aged 65 and 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, immunosuppression, or asthma (if you have received medication within the last 12 months), it is recommended that you have an annual influenza injection.

Clinics will start from Saturday 24th September, and appointments are available to book now.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Patients aged 65 and over are entitled to Pneumovax, a pneumococcal vaccine 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.
Shingles Vaccine
From 1st September we will be offering shingles vaccine to patients aged 70 or 78 on 1st September 2016. In addition, patients who were eligible for immunisation in the first three years of the programme but have not been vaccinated against shingles remain eligible until their 80th birthday.

Please book your appointment with reception on 01283 703318.

If you need any information we publish in a more accessible format, such as large print, Easy Read or Braille, please contact the practice by email at willington.sms@nhs.net, call 01283 703318, or ask a receptionist.


South Derbyshire

Get Active in the Forest ~ Rosliston Forestry Centre
Trim & Tone, starting Tuesday 6th September

A weekly walk for ladies only, led by a qualified fitness instructor around the forestry centre, with some toning exercises. Meet in the foyer at 11.45 for a noon start. £1.50 per person. For further information ring 01283 563483.

Bacon Buttie Walk, Saturday 10th September

A walk around Rosliston Forestry Centre, stopping off for a bacon buttie at the Bulls Head in Rosliston village. Meet in the foyer at 10.45 for an 11 am start. The cost of £3.50 includes your bacon buttie. For more information, call 01283 563483.


Heritage Open Days, 8th - 11th September
If you would like to nose round the former Bretby Art Pottery Showroom, closed up for the last 20 years, to see archival material and items that the pottery produced in its early years, then in September you can enjoy a guided tour led by former employees and a previous owner. Other local historic buildings that are normally closed but will be accessible during the Heritage Open Days include Hartshorne Upper Hall and Sealwood Cottage. Some that we know well such as Sudbury or Calke will be making an extra effort, or like Buxton Opera House and Kedleston, open up areas that the public rarely sees. Others again will host walks and talks, including a talk on garden building repairs at Elvaston Castle. Search online for Heritage Open Days.


South Derbyshire Sports Awards
. . . are held annually in November and attract the best sporting talent from across the county, as well as unsung heroes and those who have excelled at grass roots level. Categories are included for coaches, volunteers, clubs, disabled participants, as well as junior and senior competitors. Nominations are now open with a closing date of Friday 9th September. Search for South Derbyshire Sports Awards on SDDC website.


You and your Pet

Man's Best Friend
I found the recent uproar over a photograph of Prince George offering his ice cream to his dog quite unjust. A bit of ice cream won't do a dog any harm, and although chocolate can be toxic, a small quantity of white chocolate will not hurt. My own reaction was pleasure at seeing a child show kindness and compassion to his pet, one that surely should be taken in a positive light. Having two young children of my own, I have witnessed many shared dinners! Yes, ice cream may cause a gut upset, but let's face it, dogs are scavengers and will often go out of their way to find things that disagree with their digestive systems!

However, there is an important point to be made about dog bites and how many children are bitten over food competition. It goes without saying that children should always be supervised around dogs, but I also believe it is really important that we teach children to care for animals. Dogs have been part of our lives for thousands of years and many people consider them to be part of the family.
Lucy Travers BVSc MRCVS, Beech Vets, Willington


Derby Branch of Cats Protection
. . . is seeking a volunteer to help out for one or two days a week. The work, which is mainly administrative, involves contacting vets to book cats in for operations, deciding treatment plans, arranging for sick and injured animals to be ferried to and from veterinary surgeries, authorising veterinary treatment and dealing with members of the public. Full training and support would be given, but you would need to have your own phone and access to a computer.

This is a voluntary position and you would not be paid, but there is a great deal of satisfaction to be had, for instance, in authorising treatment for an injured cat which is later successfully returned to its owner or when a new home is found.

If you are interested, please contact enquiries@derbybranch.cats.org.uk who will email you a copy of the role description.


Neighbourhood Watch

Vandalism
On three nights at the end of July, at least 17 cars in Repton, Willington, Findern and other South Derbyshire villages suffered malicious damage. According to a police spokesman, it appeared that someone had been driving around the area overnight deliberately smashing windows. There didn't seem to be any motive other than vandalism: nothing was stolen from the vehicles and they were not linked in any way.

The incidents provoked understandable demands to install cctv cameras in Repton, but the police counsel caution. Research shows that cctv is most effective in defined areas such as car parks with a high level of coverage. To provide that in a village such as Repton, the number of cameras required is likely to be prohibitively expensive.

However, together with SDDC, the police operate an automatic number plate recognition system, which they regard as more effective. It includes Repton and is monitored in real time. This allows them to track the movements of suspicious vehicles and delivers results. The day after the last attack, police arrested a 20 year-old man from Nottingham; he is currently on bail whilst further enquiries are made.

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

Adrian Gillham, Chairman, Repton Neighbourhood Watch

Police non-emergency, 101. Victim Support, 01332 349956.
Anti-Social Behaviour hotline, 01283 595 795.
Dog Fouling, neighbourhood.wardens@south-derbys.gov.uk
Contact crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


Gardening Notes

Following the sunshine in August, hopefully you will have plentiful supplies of tomatoes, beans and courgettes. Of course, this presents another problem, what to do with them all! I make a lot of my tomatoes into a tomato sauce which keeps especially well in the freezer. Arrange halved tomatoes in a single layer, trickle over a small amount of olive oil and crushed garlic, season to taste and bake for 45-60 minutes at 180°C until they are soft and pulpy. Pass through a coarse sieve or use a mouli to produce a delicious tomato sauce.

My favourite courgette recipe is slow cooked courgettes on toast. They lose most of their moisture and become a thick, fragrant chunky mass. Heat three tablespoons of olive oil in a pan with three crushed cloves of garlic, 1 kg of finely sliced courgettes and seasoning and herbs of your choice, cook gently so that the water is released, stir occasionally to prevent the mixture catching. It makes a great toast topping – what the Italians would call bruschetta. Whizz it up with a little stock to make soup, or add a little cream or yoghurt to make pasta sauce, a great way to use up excess courgettes.

At this time of year the garden can be looking a bit scruffy, so here are a few tips to smarten things up:
Cut the grass and neaten the edges
Remove weeds and 'brown stuff' from the front of the border. No one sees the back so leave that for now.
Replant tired pots or add new ones. There are probably 8 - 10 weeks of flowering time before we are hit by heavy frosts, and the garden centres still have tender perennials and bulbs in flower for sale at bargain prices. A couple of large pots with colourful flowers can lift a garden.
When we have had a spell of extreme weather, it always shows up which plants are best suited to such conditions. The summer raspberries were prolific this year in the early wet season but the autumn raspberries are below expectation following a hot, dry August. Some plants such as some hostas and astilbes seem to adapt to drier conditions but plants vary. I have some that have burnt to a frazzle but others that have come through all the weather conditions. My biggest surprise this year is some very cheap supermarket tuberous begonias which have never stopped flowering whatever the weather. As always, the potted lilies seem to survive with very little watering, but they do give up a bit after flowering and are best put out of sight. Late bulbs such as dahlias, crocosmias and gladioli have really thrived in the hot August conditions; we should grow more of them.

And finally back to the tomatoes: knowledge is knowing that tomatoes are a fruit, wisdom is not serving them in a fruit salad.
Pauline Little