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The Parish Magazine Repton, Foremark, Milton, Ingleby, Newton Solney
December 2016

Where is God? We will remember them! 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 December: Junior Church Christmas Party Sunday 11th December: Nativity Services Sunday 18th December: Christingle Service Sunday 18th December: Candlelight Carol Service Christmas Day Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Charlie Daniel Durose Junior James Bendall Funerals and Burial of Ashes Dorothy Winifred Bradley Cynthia Mary Ellor The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Christmas Services MESSY Christingle at St Wystan's: Sunday 11th December Carols in the Bricklayers, Newton Solney: Wednesday 21st December Carols on the Crescent, Repton: Friday 23rd December New Year's Eve Watch-night Service: St Wystan's We are also hosting Housegroups The Service of Commemoration St Wystan's News William Allitt School Visit Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds Local Diary Event Details Concert with Soup & Sweet, Friday 2nd December Repton Ghost Walk, Friday 2nd December Christmas Charity Market, Saturday 3rd December Mozart's Requiem, Sunday 4th December Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th December URC Christmas Nativity Services, Sunday 11th December Christingle at Messy Church, Sunday 11th December Repton School Carol Service, Sunday 11th December Repton School Christmas Bands Concert, Wednesday 14th December Rainbows Christmas Concert, Friday 16th December Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 21st December Carols on the Crescent, Friday 23rd December Rock and Roll Christmas Sing-Along, Friday 23rd December Repton Activity Day & Fitness Fest , Sunday 8th January An Evening with Adam Peaty and Guests, Friday 3rd February The Great War Commemorated 100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . . Repton Village Hall Appeal £60,000 raised through village events The very last Repton Ghost Walk Repton Activity Day & Fitness Fest Repton Activity Day Family Fun Swim and Swim Fit Repton Village Hall Appeal 100 Club Milton Road Housing Development Repton Village and History Come and enjoy! Friday 2nd December Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Repton Village Society Repton Village Society, The Changing of the Guard! Repton Village Hall needs . . . Christmas without the Redshaws Mobile Library, Tuesday 13th December Repton Baby and Toddler A huge 'thank you', Sale of Work Volunteers needed to secure the future of Repton Village Hall Scouts Christmas Bin Collection Repton & District RBL Poppy Appeal Repton Village History Group Repton W.I. Stocking Fillers reptonchurch.uk/Magazine.htm Repton Parish Council Milton & Foremark Village Matters Bonfire and Fireworks Posh Night Milton Village Christmas Party, Friday 2nd December Milton W.I. Newton Solney Village Matters John Higgott's Almshouses Newton Solney C of E Infant School Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney W.I. Newton Solney Parish Council South Derbyshire Stamp & Deliver What's On Neighbourhood Watch Preparing for Floods Gardening Notes Storing Apples Look after your Christmas tree

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Where is God?

As I write, workmen at the Vicarage are relaying a small area of roof, and with constant movement and distraction outside my office windows, I am working with the blinds down, in the dark but for my desk light.

Of course this is nothing new. Since the evenings drew in we have all been working for long periods in the dark with only artificial light to go by. It is a situation we accept because we have to. But for me it is not! Through the blinds I can see glimmers of grey autumnal daylight. My body clock and senses tell me it is daytime. It is unnatural to rely on artificial light at this time, but rely on it I must.

Although we are still far from Christmas, on tv and in supermarkets it has been going on for weeks. I trust you are not exhausted already by the constant bombardment of adverts and displays that both flattens our excitement and may make the season itself more of a relief than a celebration.

Chances are that you read this in early December during the Season of Advent, the pre-Christmas season in the life of the church. It is an unusual season for we think about both short and long term futures. The word 'Advent' has its roots in the idea of coming, and during Advent we think about Christ's first coming as a baby in the Nativity story. But we also think about Christ's second coming at the end of time when things will be very different and He will be our judge! Alongside that we have an underlying theme of moving from darkness to light, celebrated in our Advent Sunday evening service which begins in darkness with light slowly increasing as candles are lit.

The theme of darkness and light is not uncommon in our everyday language. We talk about the darkness of evil, the darkness of a world where so often people are oppressed, caught up in terrorism and warfare, in great poverty or the pain of loss. And what do people often shout out when they find themselves in such darkness? "Where is God?!" The answer to that is also part of our Advent season. He is with us! That is the reason for Christmas, so that He could be with us, born among us, one of us, a baby who would grow to be a man, a son who would grow to be a saviour.

Sometimes when it is dark it is hard to see God, but just as in my office at the moment, with glimmers of light coming through the blinds, God is with us shining on us the light of His love. All we need to do is to reach out and open the blinds, opening our hearts and welcoming him in. May you remember to do that this Christmas and whenever life is dark for you, but more importantly, may you remember that every day.

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We will remember them!

Repton

On a pleasant, unseasonably warm Sunday morning, the local scout and guide movements turned out in force to support the Royal British Legion Club as they paraded to St Wystan's, which this year was truly full with many of the congregation standing throughout the service

One again the young standard bearers were splendid: Tom Granger (Beavers), Jasmind Bamford (Brownies), Samuel Jackson (Cubs), Zach Lunn (Scouts) and Matthew Elliott for Repton British Legion performed their roles with due solemnity and great credit to their organisations.

George Elliott, Chairman of the Repton Branch read the Roll of Honour, as well as the familiar words of Laurence Binyon and the Kohima Epitaph, in the address we were reminded of the role played by our armed forces in protecting the freedoms we enjoy, a Repton Primary School choir movingly sang 'Let there be peace on earth', and the Rev'd June Scott read 'At the Movies', a reflective poem by Florence Ripley Mastin.

After the service the congregation gathered around the War Memorial. Wreaths were laid by Brigadier Edward Wilkinson, Deputy Lieutenant of Derbyshire, on behalf of the Queen, by Tom Hyde, President of the Repton Branch of the Royal British Legion, and Martin Ford, Peter Smith and Peter Rainey on behalf of the County, South Derbyshire and Repton Parish Councils. Louis Obourne and Barney Williamson laid a wreath on behalf of the Scout movement, and Maisie Trueman and Natalie Worton, and Liam and Maddie laid wreaths on behalf of Repton Primary and St Wystan's Schools respectively. Then, with the Deputy Lieutenant taking the salute at The Cross, the parade processed back to the Legion where refreshment was to hand.

Foremark

The service at Foremark was enhanced by Foremarke Hall musicians, including the Chamber Choir and instrumentalists who had earlier in the day taken part at the Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum. The Headmaster, Richard Merriman, led the Act of Remembrance, with the names of those who had lost their lives including one ex-pupil. A trumpeter from the school, Harriet Coombs, played The Last Post and Reveille.

Newton Solney

At the Service of Remembrance at St Mary's, those from the village who sacrificed their lives in conflicts over the past century were remembered prior to the two minutes silence for all who gave their lives and for those who continue to suffer the consequences of war. Fred Hill, the Chairman of the Parish Council, read their names and laid a wreath of poppies at the War Memorial in church.

Remembrance Day, Friday 11th November

In a short Act of Witness at Repton War Memorial, attended by some 31 villagers and members of the British Legion, the vicar offered prayers before the two minutes' silence at 11 am. It is good to see more and more people gather with each passing year.

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Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

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Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

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Altar Flowers
Frances Wimbush, 703180

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Brasses
Sue Parker, 702550

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

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The United Reformed Church

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Saturday 3rd December: Junior Church Christmas Party

Members of SHELL and Junior Church will join together in the afternoon for their Christmas Party.

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Sunday 11th December: Nativity Services

At both services the children and young people will present their Nativity Play: 'Angel Express', a version of the Christmas story which everyone will enjoy! Coffee and mince pies will be served after the evening service!

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Sunday 18th December: Christingle Service

At the morning service everyone will make their own Christingle to take home.

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Sunday 18th December: Candlelight Carol Service

At the evening service come and sing your favourite carols in the glow of the candles and listen once more to the story of Jesus' birth, followed by coffee and mince pies!

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Christmas Day

Come and celebrate the birth of Jesus at a short service for all the family; remember to bring a present to show to everyone!

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Baptisms

Charlie Daniel Durose, Son of Dina Smith and Daniel Durose of 12 Clayfields Road, Repton, was baptised on Sunday 6th November at St Wystan's Church.

Junior James Bendall, son of Leah Smith and Steven Bendall of 47 Northumberland Road, Stapenhill, was baptised on Sunday 6th November at St Wystan's Church.

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Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Dorothy Winifred Bradley, formerly of Monsom Lane, Repton, died on Friday 14th October aged 95 at Stanton Manor Care Home. Win, as she was always known, was born in Newton Solney where her father was Head Gamekeeper. Her husband, Harry Bradley, died in July 2013. A service at Bretby Crematorium on 31st October was followed by cremation.

Cynthia Mary Ellor, formerly of Mitre Drive and Chestnut Way, Repton, died on Monday 24th October aged 88 in Bankside Residential Home, Duffield. Her funeral at St Wystan's Church on 3rd November was followed by interment at Monsom Lane cemetery.

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The Memorial Book

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

Please contact us.

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Repton Benefice

Christmas Services

St Wystan's: Advent Candlelight Service: Sunday 27th November, 6.30 pm

This service of candlelight and soft illuminations is a lovely way to celebrate the start of the Advent season. It includes well-known Advent carols and hymns sung by the congregation, together with motets and anthems sung by the Wystan Singers. Readings for Advent anticipate the coming of Christ and the Christmas story.

Christingle Service at St Mary's: Sunday 11th December at 10 am

This will form part of the Family Service. Everyone will be most welcome to join in a Celebration of the Light of Christ.

Christmas Carols by Candlelight: Sundays 11th and 18th December

11th: St Saviour's at 6.30 pm

For this service of traditional readings and well known carols we are joined by the boarders from Foremarke School, and the chamber choir will sing anthems. Afterwards, by the kind invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Merriman, there will be coffee and mince pies in the assembly hall.

18th: St Mary's at 4 pm

The warm, cosy atmosphere of St Mary's lends itself to a candlelit service. With traditional readings and well known carols this service will warm the hearts of everyone.

18th: St Wystan's at 6.30 pm

We celebrate the traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols, similar to that broadcast from King's College Chapel on Christmas Eve. Hearing the Christmas story as well as listening to and joining in some wonderful carols will remind our hearts and minds of what Christmas really means.

Parish Communion and Gift Service at St Wystan's, Sunday 11th December at 9.45 am

As in previous years, our gifts will go to support the valuable and much needed work of Home-Start in South Derbyshire. These are challenging times for all organisations that rely on charitable giving, and Home-Start is enormously grateful for our help. If you would like to contribute, please bring cash or a cheque payable to 'Home-Start South Derbyshire'. Your gifts will be received during the service as usual, and a representative will join us at the service to tell us more about their work.

MESSY Christingle at St Wystan's: Sunday 11th December at 4 pm

Make your own Christingle, share in a short service and stay for tea. A collection will be taken for the work of The Children's Society; if you would like a collecting flame to fill and bring on the day, please pick one up from church. Children at Repton Primary School will be able to collect one from school.

Carols in the Bricklayers, Newton Solney: Wednesday 21st December at 8 pm

An informal singalong of our favourite carols – everyone welcome

Carols on the Crescent, Repton: Friday 23rd December, 6 - 6.30 pm

Everyone is welcome to join in our annual singalong on the Crescent at the top of Askew Grove with hot drinks and mince pies to follow. Budding musicians should see page 20.

Christmas Eve

Crib Service at St Wystan's: 4 pm

Everyone is welcome to this popular service where children sing Christmas songs and use figures from the crib scene to build up the Christmas tableau as the Christmas story is told. The Church Army introduced this way of preparing for Christmas and so we make a retiring collection for their work in disadvantaged urban communities in our country.

Midnight Communion at St Wystan's and St Mary's: 11.30 pm

This is the first Communion of Christmas, and at this hour during the night when Christ was born a very special service indeed. Sing popular carols and share Christmas together on this most blessed of nights.

Christmas Day

Repton at 8 am, Foremark at 9.15 am and Newton Solney at 10 am: Christmas Communion.

St Wystan's, Family Carol Service at 10.30 am

The Family Carol Service with its focus on children and traditional carols is always one of the most popular Christmas services. Come along, join in, and share the true spirit of Christmas.

New Year's Eve Watch-night Service: St Wystan's at 11.30 pm

The Watch-night Service welcomes in the New Year and is followed by bell-ringing, bring and share refreshments and fireworks.

Carols and Communion on Sunday 1st January, St Wystan's at 9.45 am and St Mary's at 10 am

On the Sunday after Christmas, a chance to pause and reflect in God's presence. Take a break from the sales and come to worship!

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In December we are also hosting

2nd, 12 noon:	Concert and Soup & Sweet Lunch at St Wystan's
6th, 7 pm:	The W.I. Mercia Group Carol Service at St Wystan's
12th, 5.30 pm:	Repton Primary School Carol Service at St Wystan's
16th:	St Wystan's School Carol Service at St Wystan's
16th, 7 pm:	Rainbows Hospice Concert at St Wystan's
20th, 2.30 pm:	Newton Solney Infant School Carol Service at St Mary's

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Housegroups

Intercessory Prayer for Healing meets at 7.30 pm on Monday 5th December at 3 Richmond Court. If you would like us to pray for you or for someone you know, please contact Wendy Longden on 703259.

'An Ordinary day with Jesus' is a scripture-based course which helps us to integrate our faith with our daily lives. In December, both groups meet at 7.30 pm on Thursdays 1st and 8th. Wendy and Stephen Longden's group at 134 Main Street is full, but please contact either Ruth Attwood on 702804 or Julia Stentoft, 704436, for more details of their group at 28 The Pastures.

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The Service of Commemoration

This year the special service at which we remember our loved ones took place at St Mary's in Newton Solney. The Rev'd June Scott preached and The Rev'd David Fergus led the prayers. The church was comfortably full, indeed we had to produce more candles than the already large number that had previously been prepared for remembering and giving thanks. After the service many people stayed on for refreshments and a chat. May I remind you that I or any of the clergy would be very happy to meet and talk to you if you are struggling with grief or loss.

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St Wystan's News

School Visit

In early November, year 7 pupils of William Allitt School who have been working on the history of Repton came to St Wystan's Church to talk about and show off their work to parents and visitors. The evening included drama performances, student-led workshops and guided tours. It was a most enjoyable visit, just as it had been in 2015. It is great to see the students grow through the experience.

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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.

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Concert with Soup & Sweet A concert by pupils from Foremarke School followed by a lunch of home-made soup and sweet St Wystan's Church, Friday 2nd December at 12 noon Produce Stall : Books : Tombola Tickets £5 from Carol Lloyd or Jan Roberts This is always a lovely event; all are welcome. All proceeds to St Wystan's Church.

Repton Ghost Walk A light hearted introduction to the Sad, the Bad and the Good Ghosts of Repton and surrounding areas by Howard Awbery Friday 2nd December – Meet at 7.15 pm at 76 High Street, Repton Mince pies and warming refreshments Please call ahead on 01283 703828 (9am - 5pm) to book your tickets Adults £20 (not suitable for children) All proceeds to Repton Village Hall Appeal

Repton Churches Together Christmas Charity Market Saturday 3rd December, 2 - 4 pm, in Repton Village Hall Gifts, Cards, Cakes, Refreshments, Raffle Music by Repton Primary, Foremarke and St Wystan's Schools Tradecraft - Tearfund - Padley Centre - Vianney Orphanage Zambia Amnesty International - Rainbows Hospice - St Wystan's Church Main profits will go to Derby Refugee Centre

Repton School Music Society directed by Oliver Walker Mozart's Requiem Claire Wild, soprano Felicity Turner, mezzo-soprano Ben Vonberg-Clark, tenor George Coltart, bass Sunday 4th December at 7.45 pm in Pears School, Repton School Tickets £12, programmes £2, from Repton School Lodge or Rosie Carpenter on 01283 702370 or at rehearsals

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th December 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 United Reformed Church Christmas Nativity Services Angel Express presented by the children and young people Sunday 11th December, 11 am and 6.30 pm

Christingle at Messy Church Come and make your own Christingle, share in a short service and stay for tea St Wystan's Church, Sunday 11th December, 4 to 5.30 pm A collection will be taken for the work of The Children's Society. if you would like a collecting flame to fill and bring on the day, please pick one up from church. Children at Repton Primary School will be able to take one from school. To find out more, email Messy Church or call Ruth Attwood. Everyone is welcome!   Come along and try it!

Repton School Carol Service for parents, staff and parish followed by a reception in the 400 Hall foyer Sunday 11th December at 6.30 pm Repton School Chapel Free. No ticket required

Repton School Christmas Bands Concert Repton School Concert and Jazz Bands and Foremarke Hall Wind Band Wednesday 14th December at 7.30 pm Pears School, Repton School You need (free) tickets, available from The Lodge (just inside the Arch)

Sonara Singers and Eastwood Collieries' Male Voice Choir with children from Repton Primary School Rainbows Christmas Concert Friday 16th December, 7 pm at St Wystan's Church Mulled Wine and Mince Pies available Tickets £5 from Bridget Bentley, 07854 984957, rainbows.co.uk or on the door In aid of Rainbows Children's Hospice

Books, Browse and Coffee Wednesday 21st December, 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'

Carols on the Crescent, Askew Grove Friday 23rd December, 6 - 6.30 pm Everyone is welcome : Drinks and mince pies afterwards Calling all young musicians! If you play an instrument please contact Rebecca Auterson for a copy of the music and information about rehearsals. If you would like to sing, just turn up on the night – words will be provided.

Rock and Roll Christmas Sing-Along Friday 23rd December at 9 pm at The Red Lion, Repton Once again this year the Red Lion is hosting a Boss&Co Band Christmas sing-along. Come and enjoy the festive music, singing and dancing. All are welcome

Sunday 8th January at Repton Village Hall Repton Activity Day & Fitness Fest Start the New Year as you mean to go on! Each session £5; choose as many as you like. 9.30 Intervals Body Workout 10.30 Yoga or Nordic Walking 11.30 Zumba 1.00 Xpress 1.30 Pilates 2.30 Tai Chi 3.30 Strictly Dancing 4 pm & 5 pm Swimming sessions at Repton Pool Healthy Snacks available at our Health Café and an opportunity to have a Body MOT as well Tickets from Lynne Skeith, Mulberry Beauty Salon and Repton Post Office

Repton School presents An Evening with Adam Peaty and Guests Olympic Gold Medallist & World Record Holder Friday 3rd February in Repton School 400 Hall, doors open 7 pm Tickets from £18, theatres@repton.org or 01283559200 All proceeds to charity – Sport in Action and Foundation Derbyshire

The Great War Commemorated

100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . .

For the third year in succession Christmas will be in all probability shadowed over by the cloud of war. May God in His mercy grant that the New Year will bring with it a promise of victory and peace

There is one great nation which has stood aloof from the war, which has grown fabulously wealthy beyond the dreams of avarice, but yet, in the words of one of its sons, "is in grave danger of losing its own soul." That nation is, of course, the United States. It has gained at least 8,000 millions of increased wealth, yet the effect of the war has been, again in the words of the American writer, "a hardening process on men's hearts." He quotes statistics of what England and America have done in charity for the robbed and despoiled Belgians, Serbians, Armenians and Poles. The figures are amazing; the indictment of America terrible. To take one instance only: for the Serbians, England, by private contributions, with all the burdens of war, contributed seven million dollars, the United States four hundred thousand or less! Can we have any doubt then, about the choice we made in August 1914?

But still there is one great thing lacking, and that is to a large extent our spiritual apprehension of the vast struggle in which we are engaged. Ordinarily speaking I do not over emphasise the question of attendance at public worship, it may even be formal or part of routine. At the present moment it is far otherwise; it is a sign not only of our remembrance and faith in God, but also of the men who are fighting for us.   Men and women who . . . deliberately abstain from the 'gathering together' when the great intercessions go up for our sailors and soldiers are sinning very often against their own flesh and blood.

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Repton Village Hall Appeal

An exciting and successful Halloween Party in a beautifully decorated village hall was once again a sell-out. With games, a treasure hunt, fancy dress competition, hot dogs, tricky treats and refreshments, which included appropriately decorated cakes, it was another great success for Elaine Newbold. Thank you to her, and a special thank you to the Red Lion for running the bar and judging the very high standard of fancy dress. Over £420 was raised for the appeal. Thank you too to Repton Baby and Toddler Club for organising a Baby and Toddler Triathlon, and particularly to the toddlers for doing their stuff. It was a great success raising £425.

£60,000 has now been raised through village events

To see the just how many events there have been, how varied they were, how much each has raised, and realise the amazing contribution made by so many villagers, go to the 'past events' page at reptonvillagehall.uk. Thank you to everyone who has contributed in any way, your input has been so important.

The very last Repton Ghost Walk, Friday 2nd December

In response to demand, Howard Awberry has 'volunteered' to take us on one more Ghost Walk, but this will be the last. Don't miss it.

Repton Activity Day & Fitness Fest - Sunday 8th January

A programme of activities will propel you into the New Year! Classes timetabled throughout the day will include Pilates, Tai Chi, Yoga, Nordic Walking, and Strictly Come Dancing. There will be Body MOTS, a Healthy Snack Bar and lots more. See page 31 for details and timings.

Repton Activity Day Family Fun Swim and Swim Fit

The last sessions of our Activity Day on the 8th January will be in Repton School Swimming Pool on the Tanyard. (For newcomers to Repton, that's the first turning on the right as you approach Repton from Willington.)

From 4 - 5 pm there will be a Family Fun Swim, with a family ticket for up to 4 people costing £10. Children under 8 must be accompanied by a guardian over the age of 16. Each younger child of 0 - 3 years must be accompanied individually by an adult; for 4 - 7 year-olds, the ratio can be one or two to each adult.

From 5 - 6 pm there is a Swim Fit session for more serious swimmers, and the pool will be laned. Cost £5.

A great way to round off an exhilarating day!

Repton Village Hall Appeal 100 Club

Winners in October were Jane Hawkins, Mrs J C Paulson, Mrs J J Thompson and Chris Jerram. Monthly draws take 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 £12.50.

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Milton Road Housing Development

Last month, in describing the progress of Repton Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP), we drew attention to a proposal to build 25 dwellings to the rear of Burdett Way (off Milton Road). Both the NDP working group and the Parish Council have made representations to South Derbyshire District Council and our District Councillors that development of this land goes completely against the wishes of parishioners.

SDDC does not officially recognise our NDP as 'emerging' (an important legal distinction) until it is submitted for inspection in January 2017, although the Parish Council and NDP working group disagree. To us it does not seem appropriate or fair to determine this application prior to formal adoption of Part 2 of the SDDC local plan in Summer 2017 or submission of the NDP. Repton Parishioners overwhelmingly reject the extension of the settlement boundary beyond that envisaged by the Local Plan part 1, which has already been adopted.

This application has now been submitted ref: 9/2016/1118.

A number of issues are seen as particularly important:

· The extension of the settlement boundary.

· The effect on the skyline and intrusion on views of local importance.

· The loss of open space.

· Lack of public transport.

· Peak traffic flow.

If you want to refresh your memory of the NDP, find the link at reptonvillage.org.uk.

Please comment. It is very important. Numbers really, really matter!

Every comment has equal weight; your comment is just as important as the Parish Council's, and the more people that object for the same or similar reasons, the better. As the planning application only appeared on SDDC website on 14th November, the closing date for your comments has now been extended to Friday 16th December. Go to SDDC planning website or write to Stuart Batchelor, Head of Community & Planning Services, Civic Offices, Civic way, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 0AH.

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Repton Village & History

Come and enjoy! Friday 2nd December at 12 noon

This Concert with Soup and Sweet Lunch in St Wystan's Church is a very popular annual event. The concert by pupils of Foremarke Hall is always a joy, and will be followed by lunch of homemade soup and a pudding. £5. Contact Carol Lloyd or Jan Roberts.

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Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane
		Team	Opponents
4th	10.30 am	Repton Lions	Donisthorpe FC
11th	10.30 am	Under 13	Winshill
18th	10.30 am	Repton Lions	Beacon Park Rangers

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Repton Village Society

Pat Hall's talk, 'Life can be Funny', was a mixture of observations, wry humour, anecdotes, funny poems and nostalgia that was much appreciated by the audience.

Photographic competition entries, 24 in number, were judged by the audience. Gillian Hartley won 1st and 3rd prizes, and Sandra Raby won 2nd prize and the Highly Commended category. Wine and cheese rounded off the evening.

Thursday 5th January, Repton village hall at 7.30 pm

At our next meeting, at the start of the new year, Richard Spowage of the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust will talk about Willington Nature Reserve. The flooded gravel pits form an important wetland habitat in the Trent Valley, attracting many rare birds as well as a variety of more common species. The site also attracts dragonflies, damselflies and otters.

The Changing of the Guard!

No report of the November meeting could be complete without recording our tribute to Alan and Pam Webster, acknowledging the many years of service they have given to the Society.

Alan has organised our programme since the early 2000s, researching thoroughly and providing us with an eclectic and very enjoyable mix of speakers and trips. Since 2007 he has also chaired the Society, running it with a light but effective hand and great humour. As a token of our esteem, members presented Alan and Pam with flowers, wine and a cheque, toasting them with wine, cheese and a suitably decorated cake.

Alan has promised his continued involvement with the Society, which will make my job as the new chair a lot easier. Barbara McArdle is our Secretary and Shelagh Wain now organises the speaker programme.

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Repton Village Hall needs . . .

An honorary Booking Secretary from January 2017 to take bookings for the Hall and collect the fees. Ideally you will live in the village and have access to a computer.

New Committee Members

. . . to strengthen the committee at a time of exciting change

These roles are all essential to the smooth running of a great community resource. If you can help with any of them, or would like to know what is involved, please contact Peter Court.

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Christmas without the Redshaws

How will we manage? The chalkboard counting down the days, the crush of people and the warming glass as we waited to collect our Christmas turkeys. Neil was a real butcher who could provide just about anything you asked for and really knows his trade, whilst Jo had a knack of selling us things we hadn't planned on buying - pheasants, a brace of partridge, rabbit, venison . . .

Neil was apprenticed to Peter Phillips, the previous butcher, as a YTS lad in July 1984. It should have been a 3 year apprenticeship, but Neil completed it in two. He took over the shop in October 1997 and has been there for the last 19 years, until they finished on 27th October this year. The shop was well known and popular in the area, attracting customers from far around, and as well as village trade, for many years they supplied some of the school houses.

Neil and Jo have always been very friendly and welcoming. They have been supportive of church and village events, and their hog roasts were a familiar and welcome presence. It is entirely in character that their last contribution to village life was a lively and very successful 'pig racing' evening in support of the village hall appeal. We shall miss them.

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Mobile Library, Tuesday 13th December
Repton village hall, 10.15-11.30 : The Square, 11.35-1.00

The library has a four-weekly timetable - not monthly. However, it skips a week at Christmas; the following visit will be on 17th January. For the Long Eaton base, contact 01629 531398; for the van, 0780 904 4405.

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Repton Baby and Toddler

Despite being rearranged several times due to poor weather, the Repton Baby and Toddler Triathlon was a great success; a super £425 was raised for the Village Hall Appeal and the children slept that night.

Looking ahead, we are excited to meet Santa at this year's Christmas Party which will be held on the 14th December. We hope to do more fundraising with a cinema evening, as well as a weekly sale of clothes and toys, whilst in the New Year we are hoping to see a 'child free' social for our parents.

We meet every Wednesday at the Village Hall, from 9.45 to 11.45 am, for everyone from 0 to school age. Just turn up, contact Natalie Matthews or find us on Facebook.

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A huge 'thank you'

. . . to everyone who so generously responded to my plea for contributions to the Repton Village Market Stall at the Sale of Work. A wonderful selection of items appeared magically but anonymously on my doorstep and everything was very much appreciated. The new-style market stall proved very popular and contributed handsomely to the funds raised on the day.

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Volunteers needed to secure the future of Repton Village Hall

The village hall has a particularly important place in village life and fundraising for its redevelopment is going well, but for the management committee a crisis is looming. After many years of service three officers of the Repton Village Hall Charitable Trust, its management committee, will be retiring and leave the committee at the start of 2017, partly because of moving away. At least three new members are urgently needed to join the seven who remain. Without a viable management committee the hall cannot function so its continued existence will be at risk if volunteers do not come forward. The work involved is not very time-consuming and not onerous; the main commitment is to 8 evening meetings a year. People of all ages are most welcome, but younger people and fresh ideas would be particularly helpful. If you feel you can make a contribution to this valuable village heritage, please contact Peter Court.

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Scouts

Scouts have spent November being creative. They have made neckerchief woggles and leather belts, although perhaps this should not be mentioned as they may end up in Christmas stockings! These creative activities were balanced with the adventurous, chilly challenge of hiking and building a survival shelter to sleep in overnight at the end of November.

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

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Christmas Bin Collection

Although there has been no formal notification, I notice that in Milton Road the (black) bin collection during Christmas week is on a Thursday, 29th. Everything else seems normal. You can check the collection at your address on the SDDC website.

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Repton & District RBL Poppy Appeal

The end of September also saw the end of our 2015 / 2016 Poppy Appeal, and we have just been advised that the total for the year reached a new record of £12,446.33, a truly magnificent achievement. We would like to emphasise that every penny of that is forwarded to the National Appeal Fund; no expenses are incurred at a local level.

The Committee of the Repton & District Royal British Legion Branch wish to express their sincere thanks to everyone who assisted in the door to door collections, and to the schools and businesses who kindly displayed our collection boxes during the poppy appeal fortnight.

A big 'thank you' also to all Legion members and supporters who gave up their time to make up, deliver and collect the boxes and collection containers, and who assisted in the count.

The 2016/2017 Campaign has yet again got off to a fantastic start with over £10,500 collected already. Thank you again to those who assisted in any way. Unfortunately, for the second year in succession we were unable to cover all streets in Repton with the house to house collections. If you feel you could help next year in this respect, please contact me on 01283 702540 or 07704 585653.

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Repton Village History Group

In November Alan Hiley gave us an excellent talk on the history of the Trent Motor Traction Company whose origins can be traced to 1909, although it was some time before the Trent company name emerged: it appears that in order to transport workers from Derby to their estate, the Walkers at Osmaston Manor near Ashbourne hired a 14 seat vehicle from London. Alan showed a number of the early vehicles and the way in which they changed over the years.

The company had an interesting history commercially. In 1969 it became part of the national bus company before being the subject of a management buyout as part of the privatisation of the bus industry in the 1980s. In Derby it created what was probably the first purpose built bus station in England – opposite the dance hall in Albert Street, roughly where the Laura Ashley shop is now. As a time-served mechanic and, later, manager of the facility, Alan remembers many of the buses and many of the incidents that resulted in repairs in the workshop.

On Tuesday 20th December, Colin Stuart is coming to present a talk on 'Calke – from Medieval Priory to Elizabethan Mansion' whilst we enjoy seasonal refreshments. All are welcome at our meetings – members £2, visitors £3. For further information on the History Group, contact Andy Austen.

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Repton W.I.

We were very pleased to be joined by a number of visitors for our November meeting, a great 'Night at the Movies' showing 'The Lady in the Van' with Maggie Smith, with ice creams and popcorn. We love to meet new people and visitors are always welcome.

At the next meeting on Tuesday 13th December we will have Christmas crafts, supper, and a Secret Santa gift sack, so it would be a good time to come along and give us a try.

Also, on Tuesday 6th December at 7 pm, Repton W.I. is hosting the annual Mercia Group carol concert at St Wystan's Church.

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Stocking Fillers

'A Historical Map of Repton', now also published as an A5 postcard by Repton Village History Group, is available from the Post Office or Jenny Sayers, and will appeal to all Repton residents, as will 'A Stroll through Repton of Yesteryear'. Other History Group publications that are still available are 'Repton - Historic Capital of Mercia', 'We Will Remember Them ' (describing local servicemen who died in the Great War), 'Remember the Blue Bus', 'The Repton Institute', 'William Astbury's Repton Diary, Summer 1843' and 'Notices and Jottings from St Wystan's Parish Magazine, 1889 to 1937'. Contact Jenny Sayers.

The Repton Spoon is particularly attractive for anyone with Repton connections. A solid silver version is no longer available, but in silver-plated pewter it costs £35. There are pictures at reptonchurch.uk. Contact Frances Wimbush, fjwim1@gmail.com or 703180.

Greetings cards, the definitive guide to St Wystan's Church by Dr. Harold Taylor, and the 'Repton Trail' are all available from St Wystan's Church. The latter is a very useful guide for visitors and newcomers. For St Wystan's Church mugs, £7.50, and tea towels, £5, contact Karen Perks on 702392, or Frances Wimbush as above.

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reptonchurch.uk/Magazine.htm

The Parish Magazine on the web is an archive of the duplicated text, without paid advertising or other 'glossy page' information. For that you would need the bound copies which stretch back well over a century. Each edition has a list of contents. You can find it through the address above or search for 'Repton Parish Magazine'.

Note that 'reptonchurch.org.uk', the original address for the church website, has now been switched off.

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Repton Parish Council

The Arboretum: Over the coming weeks the Parish Council is to undertake maintenance work in the Arboretum. Two mature silver birch trees will be reduced and thinned and a diseased mature tree will be removed. Some of the newly planted trees also require routine maintenance pruning. This will allow more space and light to enable more trees dedicated to loved ones to be planted over the coming months.

Consultation on the Removal of Payphones: The Parish Council is to respond to a consultation by BT regarding the public telephone boxes in Repton. Overall use of payphones has declined in the last decade due to the widespread coverage of mobile phone networks. Over the last twelve months, the box adjacent to 110 High Street recorded no usage at all, and the telephone kiosk at the junction of High Street and Brook End recorded a total of 38 calls. The Parish Council is to request that this second telephone box is retained for public use.

Adverse Weather Conditions: A reminder that over the coming weeks up-to-date information regarding the weather, gritting activity, road and school closures can be found at derbyshire.gov.uk.

Dog Fouling: The Parish Council has received reports of increased incidents of dog fouling in Repton, especially in the Pinfold Lane area. These have been reported to SDDC whose Safer Neighbourhood Wardens are responsible for policing the matter. It is illegal to fail to clear up after your dog if it fouls any land which is open to the air and to which the public have access. The penalty can be an 'on the spot' fine or prosecution in the magistrates court. We would ask local dog walkers to clear up after their pets and use the bins provided so that the footpaths can be enjoyed by everyone.

Further information can be obtained from Environmental Health, South Derbyshire District Council: t: 01283 595795, e: environmental.health@south-derbys.gov.uk.

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

Parish Council Office, 40 High Street

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Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Bonfire and Fireworks

The night was chilly until the impressive fire took hold; the Guy certainly didn't freeze for long! A good crowd of villagers and friends enjoyed an informal but impressive and entertaining firework display, executed by Roger and Adam. A selection of delicious and warming soups was served by Carl, and bonfire toffee and sparklers were shared by all. Thank you to the organisers and everyone who attended and donated towards the cost of the fireworks, and also to Dave and Jean Burrows and The Swan for providing the venue.

The surplus on the evening, raised entirely from donations, was £50.10, which will be donated to Derbyshire Childrens' Holiday Centre.

Posh Night

Black table cloths adorned with sparkles, tall table centres and a large central chandelier, gentlemen in dinner jackets and ladies in posh frocks.

The evening started with wine and canapés followed by a hot meal of salmon or chicken followed by dessert and cheese. Johnny Victory sang songs by a variety of 50s and 60s artistes including Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Buddy Holly and Bobby Darren, and the ladies performed an impromptu chorus line of Frank Sinatra's 'I did it my way'. The evening ended with three quarters of the guests on the dance floor, and two encores and much applause for the Johnny Victory and his assistant. A thoroughly enjoyable night!

Friday 2nd December: Milton Village Christmas Party

Everyone welcome. Ring Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436, for details.

To hire Milton village hall, contact Polly Faulkner.

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Milton W.I.

While new President Linda Murray was celebrating her birthday in Spain, Sue White stepped in to chair the November meeting. Our speaker and demonstrator for the evening, Liz Wibberley, helped members to make and decorate their own Christmas flower. Then, much to members' surprise, speaker Liz and members Sue White and Jan Tunstall did a short tap dancing routine to a song from the musical Sweet Charity, which was followed by delicious refreshments served by Kay Dolman and Rosemary Mumford.

Sue White thanked Liz for a lovely evening of craft and for the hours she put into teaching absolute beginners Jan and Sue to tap.

Next meeting: Christmas meal in Milton village hall, Wednesday 21st December at 7.30 pm. Don't forget your bran tub prize.

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Newton Solney Village Matters

John Higgott's Almshouses, Newton Solney

A vacancy has arisen in one of the almshouses in Main Street, Newton Solney, comprising living room, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom.

Applicants should be 65 or over, of limited means, capable of looking after themselves, and have been long-term residents of Repton or Newton Solney, or have relations living in either of these parishes.

If interested, please write with your details to Mrs E J Plant, The Walled Garden, Well Lane, Repton, DE65 6EY, giving your address and telephone number.   Registered Charity No. 214465

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Newton Solney C of E Infant School

Community Collective Worship for parents, carers and local residents is on the first Thursday of the month at 9.15 am. The next will be on Thursday 1st December, when Newton Solney Pre-School will be performing their Christmas play. Do join us. All are very welcome.

Dates after Christmas are Thursdays 5th January and 2nd February.

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Newton Solney Tuesday Club

At our last meeting Peter Smith of Findern Garden Centre shared with us some useful gardening tips of things to do in the autumn and how to prepare for spring. During his talk he was happy for people to ask questions and discuss their gardening problems. Peter brought along lots of plants suitable for planting now, and a large selection of bulbs. Most of us went home with something new to add to our gardens.

Our most recent trip to Woodlands Garden Centre was very successful. The Christmas displays and other retail outlets encouraged many of us to spend our money.

Tuesday 6th December: Christmas Lunch at the Knockerdown Inn, Carsington

We leave the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 am and will be returning to Newton between 3 and 4 pm. There will be a coffee stop en route, possibly at Fairways Garden Centre near Ashbourne. The cost for the coach, meal and tips is £25.

Tuesday 20th December: Hazel's Church Lunch at 1 pm

Lunch will be followed by a selection of music by Doug Burns before tea and cake. There will be just a brief update on Tuesday Club business, and programmes for winter 2017 will be available .

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

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Newton Solney W.I.

At the November meeting, Margaret Clarke's talk gave a fascinating and at times poignant insight into her personal journey regarding her adoption and eventual reconnection with her birth parents and siblings.

NSWI had a great success at the recent Mercia group skittles match, a very worthy first place! Future events planned are the Birthday meal, a Christmas shopping trip and the Mercia group carol service at Repton.

Our Christmas meeting on Tuesday 13th December will comprise a talk, 'Life can be funny', by Pat Hall, followed by a bring and share supper with wine. A Secret Santa present will also be held for those wishing to take part. The meeting will be at 7.30 pm in the village hall; refreshment hostesses will be Sue Ellis and Linda Williams, and Marion Cooper will provide the flowers.

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Newton Solney Parish Council

Village Plan: Following a well attended meeting on Friday 11th November, the Parish Council will draft a new village plan to incorporate concerns raised and suggestions for improvement.

The Bonfire and Firework Display was a great success raising more than £1,220 in profits. This will go towards a new lawnmower for the churchyard.

Bus Shelter: The Parish Council understands the need for a new bus shelter but is still awaiting a quotation for the work. More to follow.

Recreational Field: The Parish Council has made an application to the Big Lottery Fund for £10,000 to create a trim trail on the Recreational Field. More to follow.

Planning: Outline planning permission has been granted for a hundred dwellings in Bladon Fields.
Dwelling at 219 Bretby Lane approved.
Felling a tree at Bladon House approved. Pruning two conifer trees at The Mews, Newton Park, approved. Tree felling and pruning at Primavera, Trent Lane, approved.
Extensions at Highfield House, Repton Road, to be decided.

Dog Fouling: The Parish Council is still exploring ways to address the problem, and is considering applying for an exclusion order. Members will visit the site and discuss at the next meeting. More to follow.

Camping by the River: A Freedom of Information Request (FOI) has been submitted to the council in relation to overnight camping. The council has referred the enquirer to the FOI officer at South Derbyshire District Council, but the email to the enquirer bounced back. More to follow.

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

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South Derbyshire

Stamp & Deliver - Derby & District Scouts deliver your Christmas mail

Stamp & Deliver is run entirely by volunteers, and regularly handles over a quarter of a million cards. All profits go to local Scout and Guide Groups and charities; last year £5,000 was given to The Colin Bloomfield Melanoma Appeal for the charity Skcin, which saves lives by educating hundreds of children and parents about sun safety and skin awareness. This year's chosen charities are both based in Derby. Umbrella supports disabled children, young people and their families, whilst Children First Derby helps to provide supervised contact, support and mentoring services.

During the early years Scouts made deliveries during the week. Nowadays deliveries take place at weekends, when those under 16 can be supervised by an adult.

Stamps cost 25p each. By law, we can only deliver greetings cards - definitely no cash enclosures. For details of the delivery area, look out for the leaflet through your letter box, but in general it includes all of Derby, its suburbs and surroundings extending to Breaston in the east, Belper to the north, Hatton and Hilton to the west, and Ticknall and Melbourne to the south. Lists of the delivery areas are on each of the post boxes.

Please don't include cards for other areas; they can't be delivered. For further information, see stampanddeliver.com or call 07930 760 655 between 2nd and 15th December.

The first collection will be on Friday 2nd December, and the final collection at 2 pm on Thursday 15th December, when all sales points will be closed. Cards will be delivered by Christmas Eve. Please remember to use the postcode.

You can buy stamps and post cards in the distinctive yellow posting boxes at:

Repton:	Mulberry Beauty Salon; Greedy Pig Butchers; Royal British Legion; Samaras; Spar Stores.
Milton:	the Swan Inn.
Newton Solney:	the Brickmakers Arms; Jim and Jean Ward, 11 Blacksmith's Lane.

We are indebted to them all for the time and effort they willingly give each year.

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What's On

The late autumn / winter edition of 'What's On', containing hundreds of events in South Derbyshire and The National Forest, many at very low cost or even free, is now available on the SDDC website – search for 'What's On in South Derbyshire' – or from Swadlincote Tourist Information Centre at Sharpe's Pottery.

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Neighbourhood Watch

Preparing for Floods

Flooding is hugely traumatic for those who fall victim, so what can you do to prepare?

The first thing is to visit www.gov.uk/floodsdestroy or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 to check your flood risk, sign up to the free flood warning system, and receive advice and guidance about what to do before, during or after a flood.

If you are at risk, practical preparation might include:

• Make a personal flood plan and decide what you would do if the worst occurred.

• Prepare a grab bag with warm clothes, blankets, mobile phone, medication, water and food supplies, a torch, a battery or wind up radio and important personal documents.

• Make sure you know how to turn off the gas and electricity supply.

• Identify a safe place where you, your family and pets can keep away from floodwater.

• Check your insurance.

Although SDDC has no legal responsibility to help, it has in the past provided emergency assistance on an ad hoc basis. Search for 'flooding' on its website.

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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

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Gardening Notes

Storing Apples

The Bramley apples have recently been picked and, kept cool in the garage, will last us until next Easter. When I was a child, everyone had an apple tree in their garden and keeping apples to use in winter was the norm. These days my children talk of visiting friends with apple trees and coming home laden with apples that would just go to waste; how times have changed! I remember asking Santa Claus to bring me a shiny apple, not a crinkly one; thereafter he duly obliged. Today's fruit is stored in a controlled atmosphere (CA). This is a system whereby fresh, perishable fruits and vegetables are kept under narrowly defined environmental conditions that extend the useful marketing period after harvest. The specific conditions being controlled, including temperature and humidity, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, vary according to the commodity.

Apples, for example, take in oxygen and give off carbon dioxide as starches in the flesh change to sugar. In the sealed rooms of CA storage facilities, the available oxygen is reduced, thus slowing the ripening process. At home I pack small eating apples in plastic bags pierced with a few holes and keep them in the fridge. It is important to store only good quality fruit and to check regularly for rotten apples. I make apple puree with the windfalls using orange and lemon zest and juice – it takes stewed apple to a new level.

Not much gardening happens in December at our house, there is too much else going on. Do make sure your tubs look respectable and remove hanging baskets before they turn brown and mushy. I like the modern trend for creating containers with miniature shrubs and grasses as well as the conventional annuals and bulbs. In our throwaway society and small gardens you can hardly be criticised for single use plants.

Hyacinth bulbs in pots make a good cheap Christmas present that will scent a room. What's more you can put them in the garden once they have finished flowering.

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Look after your Christmas tree

Despite the popularity of artificial trees, there is a special magic to a real Christmas tree, but if you don't want to wade through pine needles as we approach Twelfth Night, you do need to look after it.

Start at the very beginning by choosing a tree that is locally grown, and, whether you buy a cut or a rooted tree, avoid placing it too close to a fire or radiator.

With care, cut trees should last about four weeks. Saw 2.5 cm off the bottom of your tree as soon as you get it home and place it in a stand with a well of water in the base. Check daily and top up the water when the level drops.

Trees in pots should be brought indoors as late as possible, ideally the weekend before Christmas. To reduce stress and damage, display them in a cool room, and do not keep them in the house any longer than 12 days. However, be guided by the tree: if it looks unhappy, put it back outside. After Christmas, plant the tree out in the garden, or, if you want to bring it indoors again next year, grow it on in a container, moving it into a bigger pot annually until you reach the maximum size you can move comfortably; soil-based John Innes no. 2 is the ideal medium.