Magazine Archive		Magazine Contacts	Church Contacts		Repton Church Home
The Parish Magazine Repton, Foremark, Milton, Ingleby, Newton Solney
February 2018

God is Love We will remember them! Tracing those who served in the Great War Repton, Foremark and Newton Solney Parish Churches Services at St Wystan's, Repton Services at St Saviour's, Foremark Services at St Mary's, Newton Solney Readers and Intercessors at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Wystan's Brasses at St Wystan's Altar Flowers at St Saviour's United Reformed Church Services at the United Reformed Church Coffee Morning: Saturday 10th February SHELL Group for young people aged 7 and over Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals and Burial of Ashes Baptisms Elsie Seren Hughes Funerals and Burial of Ashes Betty Starkey Kenneth Ballington Peter Radcliffe Ian Protheroe Francis Leslie Shakespeare Gwen Croft David Wadsworth Guest Obituaries Jack Scott Peter Radcliffe The Memorial Book Repton Benefice Ash Wednesday Services at St Wystan's Housegroups Lent Courses Lent Collections for Padley and Derby City Mission ChildAid to Eastern Europe St Wystan's News Sunday Club for 4 - 11 year olds Easter Lilies Local Diary Event Details Transforming the Trent Valley Quiz and Fizz, Saturday 3rd February Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th February Lent Lunches, Wednesdays 14th February to 21st March Baked Potatoes & Pancakes, Tuesday 13th February Milton Lunch Club, Thursday 15th February Beetle Drive, Sunday 18th February Books, Browse and Coffee, Wednesday 21st February Repton School Concert, Wednesday 21st February Messy Church, Sunday 25th February The Great War Remembered 100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . . Repton Village Hall Progress Report Repton Village and History Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane The History of Repton Casuals Scouts Please don't block the Brook! ngs Snowdrop Festival, Sundays 25th February & 4th March Repton Primary School PTA Beetle Drive, Sunday 18th February, Repton Village Society Repton WI Repton Village History Group Mobile Library, Tuesday 20th February Sir John Port's Charity Repton Parish Council Milton, Foremark & St Saviour's Church Milton Village Hall Milton WI Newton Solney & St Mary's Church Newton Solney Tuesday Club Newton Solney WI Newton Solney Parish Council South Derbyshire Audiology Services Walks at Rosliston Forestry Centre Tesco Buses Environment Matters Transforming the Trent Valley You and your Pet If you find a dead cat Charities Padley helps the most deprived Derby City Mission Neighbourhood Watch Fighting Identity Fraud Gardening Notes Winter Pruning The virtues of gardening

---

God is Love

When asked to write this month's letter, my first idea was to write about the season of Lent, but on checking my diary, I found that the first day of Lent this year is 14th February, St Valentine's Day. In the light of this, perhaps we should dwell throughout Lent on the theme 'God is Love'.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life." John 3 v. 16

God's greatest act was not just to send Jesus into the world, but to send him as a human being, the pinnacle of all creation. In winter when I can't do much in the garden, I read a lot, taking advantage of the Books, Browse and Coffee library as well as books passed on to me by friends. Recently my books have been about early civilizations – nonfiction books last longer than detective stories!

Nicholas Crane's 'The Making of the British Landscape' begins at the time when England was joined to the European mainland. Even in those primitive times (9,000 BC) human beings had developed skills that enabled them to survive in semi-arctic conditions, and their settlements show that they had some kind of religious belief. Even then they were on a different level from the animal kingdom.

This was even truer in areas where the climate was more favourable such as Egypt and the valley of the Euphrates. Written records began and civilization developed rapidly. Between 2,000 and 1,000 BC Egypt developed a bureaucracy similar to our Civil Service. (In England writing only started in the first century AD!)

History records the steady development of the human race. We may talk about the good old days but our ability to care for the sick, to provide food, water and shelter, education and safety is limited only by our willingness or unwillingness to share what we have. God gave us a status above the level of the animals to enable us to fight evil and selfishness in the world. Psalm 8 sums it up:

"What are human beings that you are mindful of them? You have made them a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honour."

God is love. He has made us for a purpose.

---

We will remember them!

Tracing those who served in the Great War

In 2014, in memory of the 43 men from Repton, Milton, Foremarke and Ingleby who died in the Great War, Repton Village History Group published 'We Will Remember Them' *, a booklet researched and written by Margaret Austen that set out to remember them for their lives, not just for their death.

However, while remembering the dead, we can easily forget those who survived, so Margaret has been wading through the 1911 census for men who would have been of serviceable age in 1914 – 1919, and looking at service records to see if they were in action. It is inevitable that some have been missed, not least because some war records were destroyed in the second World War.

Remembering that our focus is on the lives of local people, if you have information about members of your family who served in the Great War, your parents, grandparents, great grandparents, great uncles and so on, we would be very grateful. Contact Margaret Austen. * Copies cost £4.50. A few are now available from Ivor Sandars, 01283 702688.

---

Services at Foremark, Newton Solney
and Repton Churches

St Wystan's, Repton

St Saviour's, Foremark

St Mary's, Newton Solney

---

Readers, Intercessors and Offertory at St Wystan's

---

Altar Flowers
Frances Wimbush, 703180

---

Brasses
Sue Parker, 702550

---

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

---

The United Reformed Church

---

Coffee Morning: Saturday 10th February, 10.30 – 11.30 am

Another opportunity to meet friends over coffee and treat yourself to home-made goodies. Everyone is welcome!

---

SHELL Group for young people aged 7 and over

. . . meets on Mondays 5th, 19th and 26th February. Activities this month include cooking and making Valentine's Day cards. New members are always welcome.

---

Baptisms

Elsie Seren Hughes was baptised on Sunday 14th January at St Wystan's Church.

---

Funerals and Burial of Ashes

Betty Starkey of Newark, formerly of High Street, Repton, died on Wednesday 13th December aged 96. Her funeral, held at the United Reformed Church on Thursday 18th January, was followed by cremation at Bretby.

Kenneth Ballington of Ashby Road East, Bretby died peacefully on Saturday 16th December aged 73. On 5th January a private cremation at Bretby was followed by a service of remembrance at St Mary's Church, Newton Solney, and in the afternoon a quarter peel was rung in Ken's honour at St Wystan's Church, Repton, where he was a bell-ringer.

Peter Radcliffe of Willington, formerly of Tanner's Lane, Repton, died in the Royal Derby Hospital on Thursday 21st December aged 77. A funeral service at Bretby Crematorium on 10th January was followed by cremation.

Ian Protheroe of 19 Springfield Road, Repton, died on Monday 1st January aged 62. A funeral service at St Wystan's Church on 22nd January was followed by burial at Monsom Lane cemetery.

Francis Leslie Shakespeare of Bretby, a long-standing member of Repton Village History Group, died peacefully at Queen's Hospital on Friday 5th January aged 90. His funeral service and interment will be at St Wystan's Church, Bretby, on 2nd February.

Gwen Croft, formerly of High Street, Repton, died on Monday 8th January. Her funeral takes place at Bretby Crematorium on 31st January. Gwen's husband, Ken, who died in May 2014, was head of Repton Primary School from 1966 to 1986, overseeing its move from the High Street to Springfield Road.

David Wadsworth Guest of Timperley, Cheshire, and formerly of Tudor Lodge, High Street, Repton, died in hospital after a long illness on Sunday 14th January aged 80. His funeral in Cheshire will be followed by cremation.

---

Obituaries

John Dryden (Jack) Scott
9th December 1937 – 29th November 2017

Jack was born in Hawick on the Scottish Borders. During the war his father, unable to join the forces because of deafness, was conscripted to work in a munitions factory near Liverpool, so Jack and his sister were initially brought up by their mother. But the family were always close, and after the war Jack loved to go fishing with his father in the Border Lochs and River Teviot. Aged about 8, he also joined the Boys Brigade, excelling as a drummer in the pipe band which was well known and popular around the Scottish borders, and even toured to Denmark.

From school, he went on to an engineering apprenticeship with Turnbull and Scott before studying engineering in Edinburgh at Herriot Watt University. Completing his studies in 1961 he took a job at English Electric in Leicester where he learned new skills in engineering design and management, and, following further study at Leicester Polytechnic, gained membership of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering. After several years at English Electric he moved to the British Shoe Machinery Company in Leicester and then on to Leicester Water, which in 1974 became part of the newly formed Severn Trent.

At his cousin's 21st Birthday Party in 1964, Jack met June who was training as a nurse at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. In September 1966 they married and made their home in Glenfield, Leicester. It was while living there that Robert was born in 1969 and Ruth in 1971, but in 1974 when Jack moved to work at the Upper Trent Division of Severn Trent Water, the family moved to Burton, to Bretby Lane which became their home for the next 38 years.

Engineering was never just a job, it was a passion. Whether it was a back garden civil engineering project, changing the gearbox in his car, or simply machining a rivet, Jack derived enormous pleasure and satisfaction from doing it well. He was a competitive motorcycle trials rider and dismantled and rebuilt his bike almost as often as he rode it. But his lasting passion was model engineering. His garage cum workshop is filled with rows and rows of butter tubs all marked up to identify their contents. There are shelves full of neatly bound and labelled model engineering magazines. There are folders with carefully hand drawn diagrams and notes of how to achieve the next part of a project. And there are precision parts for his latest project, on the benches he made from scratch.

But Jack was far from one-dimensional. He was a keen golfer having played since childhood. He joined Burton Golf Club and in retirement became a life member. He was also a keen beekeeper. Over the years many of his skills were put to good use in maintaining Newton Solney Church, the churchyard, and the village school, of which he was for some time a foundation governor.

Jack's death was blessed. A few weeks beforehand he had heard a piper playing nearby in Ashbourne. A few days before, he watched Scotland beat Australia at rugby. On the day itself he worked in his workshop, and had lunch with June.

Always steady, considerate and thoughtful, Jack was courteous and genuine, a trusted friend with a lovely sense of humour, always cheerful and smiling, a good listener who always had time to chat, a true gentleman who will be greatly missed.

---

Peter Radcliffe
† 21st December 2017

Born in Repton in one of the cottages just across from the butcher's, Pete spent most of his life in Repton before in retirement moving to Willington.

Pete's grandfather and father were both groundsmen at Repton School, and from them he learnt the trade, caring for the grounds, and preparing and marking out tracks, wickets and pitches for all the many sports with their different demands.

Sport was always important to him, whether playing or refereeing football – from school matches to junior leagues – playing cricket, and in later years, squash. But it was not just sport that brought him popularity in school: for many years on four nights a week, together with June, he ran the Sixth Form bar!

With his son, Gary, Pete would also fish and walk. Over the years they worked their way through most of the Lake District peaks and fells in summer and in winter, both day walks and back-packing trips, and as part of a veteran team he was proud to complete the 4 Inns walk. Pete also became involved with Foremarke School outward bound activities, which for a number of years culminated in an extended trip to North Wales: he would lead groups up Snowdon and on night hikes.

Family holidays were particularly important to him, whether with a young family in this country, later in the USA and Europe and on cruises, or in later life, as he increasingly found travel difficult, in the UK.

An active and vigorous man, Pete was never happy doing nothing. When his physical problems grew he became frustrated at not even being able to do his own lawns properly, but he never gave up. He will be remembered as a good, conscientious man, who sought out ways to contribute and help, and who, when he took something on, always did it to the best of his ability. The large congregation at his funeral included many Old Reptonians, bearing witness to the respect and affection in which he was held.

---

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

Ash Wednesday Services at St Wystan's
Holy Communion with Ashing, 10 am and 7.30 pm

Ash Wednesday, which this year falls on the 14th February, St Valentine's Day, is the first day of Lent when, in the run up to Easter, we recall the forty days that Jesus spent fasting in the desert before beginning his public ministry.

The Symbolism of Ashes

The Ash Wednesday service is marked by powerful symbolism. The priest takes ashes from burning palm crosses used the previous year on Palm Sunday, blesses them and mixes them with water or holy oil. Then, as he sprinkles them on the head or forehead of the congregation, or – as happens at St Wystan' s – marks foreheads with the sign of the cross, he uses the words: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19) or "Repent and believe in the good news" (Mark 1:15).

Using the crosses from last year's Palm Sunday service – a service that celebrates Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem – reminds us that triumph was rapidly followed by defeat and crucifixion.

The ashes are a symbol of our mortality and humanity. But they are also are a symbol of repentance, sorrow, and humility. In the Scriptures there are many cases of wearing ashes as a sign of penitence, often while clothed in sackcloth. In Jeremiah 6:26 for instance, the prophet urges his readers to 'gird on sackcloth and roll in ashes'.

Fasting? Doing something extra?

During Lent many people give something up as a form of physical or mental discipline. Fasting has usually emphasized eating plainer food and refraining from food that would give pleasure: in many cultures, this means no meat, dairy products, or eggs. The history of the Church has many stories of fasting and its spiritual value, although Jesus warns us not to be obvious about our fasting, and not to fast just to impress others.

Lent is also a time to consider our loving relationship with God, studying more and being more aware of our need of God than usual. In this light, rather than – or as well as – giving something up, you may wish to do something extra. This can range from helping those in need to giving more time to prayer and Bible study. For the few weeks of Lent, why not give try one of the Lent courses we offer, or even try coming to church if you don't already? Who knows? It might be just what your soul is searching for.

---

Housegroups

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

Woodend Cottage Bible Study Group: 8th February: Study in Luke. From 15th February onwards we will also be following the Lent course 'On the Third Day'.

---

Lent Courses

Once again there are two courses this year, each with five weekly sessions starting on the 15th February. There is a choice of afternoon or evening sessions.

The course at St Mary's, Finding a Voice, is based on the film 'The King's Speech', and examines the factors that can that stand in the way of finding our true expression as followers of Christ.

At St Wystan's, On the Third Day, one of the successful series of York Courses, deals with the Resurrection, the event that turned a little Jewish protest movement into a world-transforming religion. How can we re-capture the explosive power of the resurrection that ricocheted around the world? How can we live in the glow of resurrection and be an 'Easter' people throughout the year? How can 'there and then' become 'here and now'?

Lent is comparatively early this year, so please sign up promptly on the sheet in either church, or contact George Johnson on 703079 for more information or to book a place.

---

Lent Collections for Padley and Derby City Mission

During Lent, the three Anglican churches will be collecting as usual for Padley's work with the most vulnerable. St Mary's also collects gifts and money for the Derby City Mission. For more about Padley and Derby City Mission, see below and page 35.

The Padley Centre is very grateful for cash donations, but also has a detailed 'wish list', which is on display in church. All types of tinned or packeted foods are needed, particularly tinned meat, fish, tomatoes and soup. Please ensure that they are within their 'use by' date; if not, they cannot be accepted. Toiletries and personal hygiene items are also wanted.

During Lent, please leave goods in any of the churches.

---

ChildAid to Eastern Europe

A massive 'thank you' to all who supported us last year by purchasing preserves, Christmas cards and decorations, enabling us to raise over £630. In spite of being semi-retired for over three years now, we can't seem to break the habit! Suffice it to say that the new season's fresh fruit marmalade is now in stock!

---

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.

---

Easter Lilies for St Wystan's Church

Traditionally, we decorate the church with lilies at Easter, which this year fall on the 1st April. These beautiful flowers help us celebrate Jesus' resurrection and breathe new life into the Church after its bareness during Lent when all ornament is stripped away.

Many people welcome the opportunity to contribute to the cost of the lilies whether in memory of loved ones, to celebrate special events or simply to help make the Church look beautiful. If you would like to make a donation, please contact Frances Wimbush.   It may seem early but she has to order flowers well ahead.

---

Transforming the Trent Valley Community Conversations 1st and 13th February at Willington Old School 27th February at Repton village hall, all from 7 to 9 pm Contact Matt Croney, 07807 687903, matt@icarus.uk.net to book your place, or for more information

Quiz and Fizz Saturday 3rd February at 7.30 pm in Newton Solney Village Hall Tickets from Vanessa, 707263, or Joan, 701310 including a glass of fizz and a light supper. Team of 4 £30. Individuals, £7.50, most welcome – teams can be made up on the evening Hosted by Newton Solney WI to raise funds Newton Solney Village Hall

Soup, Cheese and Chat! Wednesday 7th February 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!

Lent Lunches Every Wednesday from 14th February to 21st March 12.30 to 1.30 pm in St Wystan's Church Homemade soup, bread, cheese, a chance to borrow books - and chat! Donations invited for charity Everyone welcome. Do come!

Baked Potatoes & Pancakes Tuesday 13th February, noon to 2 pm at 1 Milton Road, Repton Raffle & Jams £5 including lunch and coffee - Proceeds to St Wystan's Church

Milton Lunch Club Thursday 15th February, 12.30 pm in Milton Village Hall.   £5. Chicken casserole + Jam sponge! Contact Lynn, 704540, Sue, 701978, or Polly, 703436 Everyone welcome wherever you live! If you need transport, let us know

Repton Village Hall Appeal Beetle Drive Sunday 18th February, 3.00 – 5.00 pm in Repton Village Hall Stand up Bingo Tickets: £5 pp include tea / coffee / soft drinks, sandwiches & cake from Carol Lloyd, Frances Wimbush, or Mulberry Beauty Salon, High Street, Repton

Books, Browse and Coffee Wednesday 21st February, 11 am - noon in St Wystan's Church and every 3rd Wednesday in the month Coffee and biscuits £1, and a chance to borrow books and jigsaws Chat and loans are free! ALSO Wednesdays in Lent, 12.30 - 1.30, during Lent Lunches!

Repton School Concerts Society Repton School Music Staff – Viva Espana! Wednesday 21st February at 7.45 in the Robert Beldam Hall Following last year's much appreciated nature-themed concert, specialist music staff from Repton School's Music Department will this year transport you to the colourful, vibrant world of Spain. Do join us for an evening of Flamenco festivities and Spanish music. Sangria and tapas will be available in the interval! Tickets for this concert are £13.50 and £10.50 (concessions). For further information or tickets contact Sue Parker, 56 Askew Grove, Repton, DE65 6GR

Messy Church Activities, celebration and food for all the family St Wystan's Church, Sunday 25th February, 4 to 5.30 pm To find out more, email Messy Church or call Ruth Attwood. Everyone is welcome!   Come along and try it!

The Great War Remembered

100 years ago, the Vicar wrote . . .

We are at last, after three and a half years of war, beginning somewhat acutely to feel its economic stress. It is a wonderful thing we have not felt it before. But we are now a beleaguered island, and although the German submarines have not and will not ever make our position impossible or starve us out, yet they can and have made matters very uncomfortable, even distressing. I think most of us feel now that it would have been a good thing if the Government had rationed us all round; but, whether or no, it is our plain duty to all our brave men at the front, and for the very existence of our nation as a free state, to bear whatever comes uncomplainingly. One thing there must be, and that is equal treatment all round.

The brilliant little naval affair which has just taken place, in which were sunk or damaged those enemy vessels the Goeben and the Breslau, which undoubtedly had great influence at the beginning of the war in bringing in Turkey against us, has cheered us up. It may be, I hope, a sign that at length Turkey is utterly tired of being a catspaw in the hands of Germany.

Lent begins on the 13th, as Easter is early this year. I hope we may all use this Lent aright, as a time of drawing near to God, and that Easter will mark the beginning of a new era of liberty and peace in the whole world.

---

Repton Village Hall

Progress Report

With the support of the village shown in the referendum and the Parish Council's decision to increase the precept to complete the funding needed for a replacement hall, things are happening quietly in the background. The village hall committee is recruiting help from people with relevant specialist expertise in handling projects like this. We want to follow best practice in the process of contracting for the rebuild and the use of all the funds donated by the village and granted by the Parish Council.

Currently, we are awaiting renewal of the planning application and making contacts with various statutory bodies who are able to advise us. We are not past the point of no return for making design changes, and are undertaking a series of visits to other village halls to find out what has worked well for them in equipping and using a hall. Halls vary a lot in their history, construction and patterns of use, but we are picking up lots of ideas about what to do and what to avoid.

We are very grateful to the Parish Council for its support, without which a new hall would not happen.

---

Repton Village & History

Repton Casuals Fixtures at Broomhills Lane
		Team	Opponents
4th	10.30 am	Under 13 White	Marlborough Rovers Black
11th	10.30 am	Under 13 White	Abbots Bromley
18th	10.30 am	Under 13 Blue	Belvedere Park Juniors Blue
25th	10.30 am	Under 14	Winshill

---

The History of Repton Casuals

During 2018 I am intending to produce an article on the history of Repton Casuals Football teams to be stored in Repton Archives. To date I have collected over 30 team photographs and reports which have generated considerable interest. The earliest team photo that we have was taken in 1949, some 69 years ago. I have been told that there was a team between the wars named Repton Swifts or Repton Robins but nobody has so far come forward with any details.

If you have any information – including anecdotal reports – about Repton Casuals, particularly its early history, with any copies (or originals for us to copy) of photos or articles, it would be greatly appreciated.

---

Scouts

We ended the year with a Christmas Party in the Den for parents and Scouts, and a number of Scouts were awarded their Athletics, On the Water and Equestrian badges.

In the next few months we are planning to complete two more badges including the Artist badge and the Teamwork Challenge badge. In January we also have the Chilly Challenge camp at Drum Hill.

We are currently full and the reserve list is growing, but if you would like to know more about Scouts, do contact me. If you are interested in joining, please let me know and I will add you to the waiting list.

---

Please don't block the Brook!

Flooding is a serious issue, and increasingly heavy rainfall over the past few years suggests that the risk could be growing. Last summer the environment agency carried out work to improve the water flow in Repton Brook by de-silting beneath the road bridges in Askew Grove, Brook End and Pinfold Lane.

Disappointingly, close to Pinfold Lane bridge, someone has now tipped in a barrow load of sand mixed with twiggy bamboo. This is deplorable. Repton Brook may look inoffensive in fine weather but after a downpour the level can rise rapidly, and on several occasions in recent years there has been serious flooding. A minor blockage can soon escalate as it catches debris swept down by the stream.

If your garden backs onto the Brook you also have a part to play: debris from gardens has often been a significant factor. So as well as not throwing garden rubbish into the Brook, please don't leave anything out that may be swept into it by high water. And if fallen trees or branches threaten to block the Brook, please clear them yourself if you can. Otherwise, please contact DCC which is now responsible for the risk of flooding from small 'ordinary' watercourses such as ditches, streams and brooks. Blockages can be reported at derbyshire.gov.uk/reportit, call.centre@derbyshire.gov.uk, or 08456 058 058.

---

ngs Open Garden - Snowdrop Festival at 10 Chestnut Way
Sundays 25th February & 4th March, 11 am - 3 pm

Robert and Pauline Little are again opening their garden for charity and invite you to visit. There will be loads of snowdrops and other early bulbs, of course, but also hellebores, daphnes and viburnums as well as brightly coloured stems and bark. In the sunshine the willow bed looks amazing.

The garden is level, flat and suitable for wheelchairs. There will be home-made soup available and the conservatory will be open in case of rain – but let's hope for sunshine!

Entry £3. Home-made teas and cakes and plant stall. All the money goes to the National Garden Scheme, which this year will again be donating over £3m to Nursing and Caring charities. Do come; we would love to see you.

---

Make 2018 a year to remember for Repton Primary School PTA

Following your amazing support in 2017, Repton Primary School PTA hopes you will join in our programme for the coming months, with events for both pupils and the community.

Pupils will be able to show off their dance moves at separate KS1 and KS2 discos, book worms can update their reading list with a book fayre to support a parents' evening, and the entire school will have the opportunity to decorate their own 'Repton Rocks', to be displayed by the school entrance.

As the weather warms up, everyone including members of the community will have the chance to sponsor a duck for Repton's long-standing Duck Derby, when yellow plastic ducks bob and swirl down the brook towards a tense finish at Brook End. Finally we have a summer BBQ for all and a 'leavers disco' for our grown up Y6 as they leave us for a new adventure!

We hope you can all join Repton Primary School PTA to make 2018 a year to remember!'

---

Beetle Drive
Sunday 18th February, 2.45 for 3 pm in Repton village hall

Join us this month to banish winter's blues with a game of Beetle. It's easy to play, and lots of fun – you only have to be able to draw simple shapes. Sandwiches and cake for tea and stand up bingo complete the afternoon.

Tickets cost £5 from Carol Lloyd, Frances Wimbush, or Mulberry Beauty Salon, High Street, Repton.

---

Repton Village Society

A good turn-out for our first meeting of 2018 was rewarded with an informative and entertaining talk by Dave Hollis on 'A Year in the Woods'. Dave's lifelong passion for wildlife and his professional experience as a Ranger showed in the narrative accompanying his photographic record of woodland wildlife throughout the seasons. As a youngster he would spend hours observing nature, only returning home for sustenance, and his passion has continued undiminished. In answering the many questions arising from his talk he expanded on his experiences. His natural gift for communication made venturing out on a dark winter's evening very worthwhile.

On Thursday 1st February, 7.30 pm at Repton village hall, Paul Newsham will be giving the second part of his talk on 'Biometrics – There will never be another you'. In the first part in October 2016 we discovered the uniqueness of our fingerprints, footprints and ear prints. I am certain he will entertain us once again with more unexpected stories and surprising information.

---

Repton WI

In January a noisy Bavarian Oompah Evening was well supported by our WI ladies. Members Sue and Maureen dressed the part, arriving in traditional German costumes to the delight of members, and Linda Harrison brought in German food including bratwurst, frikadellen, German bread, mustard and sauerkraut. Whilst waiting for the food to be cooked, members had fun with a Beetle Drive with German beer and German chocolate as prizes. To finish the evening there was stollen and lebkuchen. There was a bring & buy too.

Don't begin to think WI is old-fashioned and only for a certain age group. We welcome all age groups and are building up a following of much younger ladies from the village, so please come along to one of our meetings, catch us on our Facebook page, or come to our monthly Happy Hours at the Boot Inn.

Our next meeting is on Tuesday 13th February when our speaker is from the John Lewis and Waitrose Partnership.

---

Repton Village History Group

We are saddened by the death in January of two stalwarts of the History Group, David Guest and Frank Shakespeare. David was a founder member, driving force and past chairman of the group, a man of great charm and gentleness with a passion for Repton's history. Frank was a very gentle man with a lovely sense of humour. He was a long-standing member of the group and, with Glenys, looked after people coming to our meetings, taking the money on the door, organising the raffle and selling the tickets, but recently Frank's illness made it increasingly difficult for them to attend. Our sincere sympathies go to Lilwen, Glenys and their families.

On a happier note we offer congratulations to Cat Jarman on being awarded a doctorate for her research on the bones found when the Biddles excavated Repton's Viking charnel house in the 1970s and 80s. This resolved a dating conundrum and demonstrated that the remains were almost all Viking, coming from a number of Viking countries.

January saw the start of the Group's new approach, moving from monthly talks of a general historical nature to concentrate on Repton research and the village archive. Thanks to the Red Lion licensees, we met in their function room which provided a cosy environment and a change from the normal tea and biscuits. We had invited residents from the new housing estates to a talk on 'A Simple History of Repton' and were pleased to meet seven new people. The plan now is to have a quarterly members' meeting for chat and gossip, to report back on project progress, plan the next three months and hear short talks on Repton related historical topics. For further information, please contact Andy Austen.

---

Mobile Library, Tuesday 20th February
Repton village hall, 10.15-11.30 : The Square, 11.35-1.00

The library offers a range of services for everyone including fiction and non-fiction books for adults and children, large print books, books on tape and books on CD as well as a selection of local studies books and information.

There is a lift for wheelchair users and people with mobility problems, but if you are genuinely housebound and have no one to visit the library for you, there is also a home library service. If you think you might qualify, ring Kirsty on 01629 539 140 to arrange an assessment of your needs.

The library works to a four-weekly timetable so in March will again be here on the 20th. For the Long Eaton base, contact 01629 531398; for the van, 0780 904 4405.

Sir John Port's Charity Awards available for residents of the parishes of Repton and Etwall The Governors of Sir John Port's Charity invite applications for a single project to promote the education, including social and physical training, of children or young persons resident in the Parishes of Repton or Etwall to a maximum total value of £1,500. Grants may be subject to means testing. Applications should be made in writing, addressed to the Bursar, Repton School, Repton, Derbyshire, DE65 6FH, and should reach him by Friday 16th February 2018.

Repton Parish Council

New Councillors: The Parish Council is pleased to welcome three new Councillors. Councillor Gary Steel from Milton returns after a break of a few years, and Councillors Mel Thomas and David Dickson, both from Repton, have also been co-opted. The Parish Council is now almost at full strength. An extremely good response was received regarding these vacancies, and we would like to thank everyone who showed an interest.

Councillor Vacancy: The Councillors can now fill the remaining vacancy on the Parish Council by co-option. (As this arises from a recent resignation, it wasn't legally possible to do it together with the others.) Full details can be found on the website and noticeboards, or by contacting the Parish Council office as below. Should you wish to apply, please state your full name and address and explain why you wish to serve, as well as describing the interests and skills you would bring to the Parish Council and how you are involved in the local area. The closing date for applications is 4 pm on Monday 5th February.

Local Audiology Services: When the news emerged that audiology services are no longer offered at Willington Surgery, Repton Parish Council wrote to express its concern to NHS Southern Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group with a copy to our M.P., Heather Wheeler who also took the matter up. The reply from the NHS SDCCG is in a separate article.

Planters for Repton and Milton: The Parish Council has agreed to fund the purchase of octagonal planters for both Repton and Milton. They should be in place by late spring.

Exact locations are to be finalized, but it is anticipated that one will be in the vicinity of Repton Cross and the other two at the entrance and exit at Milton. These will be a welcome addition to the local area.

Repton Brook: We are receiving new complaints regarding rubbish being dumped in Repton Brook, in the area close to Pinfold Lane. This could cause a blockage and result in local flooding. Please do not dump waste of any type in the Brook. If you see a problem please inform the Environment Agency on 0800 807060, or as above.

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

Parish Council Office, 40 High Street

---

Milton & Foremark Village Matters

Milton Village Hall

A defibrillator has now been purchased and will be fitted at the village hall in the near future. The new war memorial is complete and will be installed outside the village hall as soon as weather permits. It has been decided to site one of the planters that Repton Parish Council will supply in May near to the village hall, the other on the village green, known locally as The Triangle.

Dates for the diary

Friday 16th March: A wine tasting evening in the village hall. Test your knowledge of wine at a light-hearted evening in good company, with a cheese supper included. Tickets £15 from Sue on 704580 or via the website.

Sunday 20th May: A Live and Local play performed by The Ministry of Biscuits in Milton village hall. Tickets £12, cash bar available. Reservations are already being taken. Please contact Dawn on 703075 or via the website.

To hire Milton village hall, contact Polly Faulkner.

---

Milton WI

Niki Walker, a trustee of the Friends of the Baby and Neonatal Unit at Derby Royal Hospital gave an interesting and informative talk about their work. Many volunteers are involved in helping to provide the unit with essential equipment, baby clothes and family support. President Linda Murray gave a vote of thanks. At refreshment time, Helen Skipper and Linda Murray served members with homemade tomato soup and garlic bread followed by delicious cakes.

Next meeting: Wednesday 21st February, 7.30 pm in Milton village hall. Our speaker will be a representative of Safe and Sound, a charity that aims to keep children and young people safe and sound from sexual exploitation. New members and guests are always welcome to join us.

---

Newton Solney & St Mary's Church

Newton Solney Tuesday Club

At our first meeting of 2018, Dennis Ward gave a much appreciated pictorial presentation of Tuesday Club activities during 2017. It's amazing how easy it is to forget the places we visited and the interesting speakers who came to our meetings. Dennis is our resident photographer, taking photos of all that we do and organising them in an amusing way for us to enjoy at the start of the following year. His presentation each January is something we all look forward to.

Tuesday 6th February at 2.30 pm

A business meeting followed by a talk from 'The Cheese Lady' with opportunities to taste the products.

Tuesday 20th February: A Trip to Denby Pottery

We leave the Unicorn Inn at 9.30 (with the usual pick-up points at Dalebrook, Repton and Willington) and return to Newton by about 3 pm. Cost £10.

Tuesday 27th February: Whist Drive at 7 pm in the Newton Solney village hall.

If you would like further information on any of the above activities or about Tuesday Club, please contact our Secretary, Jane, on 01283 564520. There are normally some spare seats on our trips, so if you fancy a trip without driving or having to find parking, please come along, you will be most welcome.

---

Newton Solney WI

In January members enjoyed an illustrated talk by Ashley Franklin, photographer and writer for Derbyshire Life. His photographs and commentary on Derbyshire towns and villages, Newton Solney included, were excellent.

Wishing members a Happy New Year, President Vanessa Archer hoped that all would enjoy our programme for 2018, especially since it is the centenary of the founding of Derbyshire Federation of WIs.

On Saturday 3rd February (7.30 pm in the village hall) NSWI's next event, Quiz and Fizz, promises a thoroughly enjoyable evening, continuing our fundraising for new chairs and curtains for the village hall. Tickets from Vanessa, 707263, or Joan, 701310. A ticket for a team of 4 costs £30 (but individuals at £7.50 are most welcome as teams can be made up on the evening) and will include a glass of fizz and a light supper.

On Tuesday 13th February we have a members' social evening, Pancakes, Photographs and Prosecco! Please bring along a photo of yourself relating to Newton Solney life for all to share and chat about. Jill Parker will kindly provide flowers.

---

Newton Solney Parish Council

Dog fouling and dog bins: Complaints have been received that dog bins were overflowing after a missed collection. The Council is aware of the situation and monitoring it closely. Parishioners should report dog fouling and other nuisance behaviour to the Safer Neighbourhood Team at SDDC.

Recreation Field 1: The Parish Council has received a complaint about parking on the field following a Boxing Day charity fundraiser. The council has no objection to the field being used, but asks all users to obtain permission beforehand and have a plan for parking.

Recreation Field 2: Following the successful application to Tesco's 'Bags of Help' scheme, the Council is looking at items for the trim trail.

Security: Following the unanimous decision to review the security arrangements of Newton Solney's Recreational Field and the land by Trent Lane, the Council has contacted and is awaiting responses from all users of the common land before moving ahead. The access to the Recreation Field has now been secured with a five bar gate and lock.

The speed activation sign, which has been out of use for a number of months, has now been examined by the highways team. More to follow.

Planning applications

• Peel Cottage: Remove conifers and prune trees. Granted.
• 12 Newton Park: Felling Swamp Cypress tree. Granted.
• 150 houses in Sales Lane, Winshill. Parish Council objected.
• 22 Main Street: Felling oak tree. Awaiting decision.
• 22 Main Street: Demolish garage and construct new dwelling with garages. Awaiting decision.

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

---

South Derbyshire

Audiology Services

Burton Hospital no longer offers an audiology service at Willington Surgery. The nearest centre for hearing aid appointments is now Wellbrook Medical Centre at Hilton. For further information, call Burton Hospitals on 01283 511511 x 5188.

Having contacted NHS Southern Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group (SDCCG) to express its concern when the news first emerged, Repton Parish Council has now received this reply:

"We regret any inconvenience caused to your residents; however, please be advised [that] in Burton Specsavers, commissioned by SDCCG provides audiology services. There is also another hearing aid provider in Burton, but they are not commissioned by SDCCG.

"Also nearby, there is both a Scrivens and a Specsavers in Swadlincote which are both commissioned by SDCCG.

"Finally, The Outside Clinic, a service commissioned by SDCCG, offers a mobile service in people's own homes. This service would be particularly useful for residents of Repton who have mobility issues. The Outside Clinic can be contacted by calling 0800 85 44 77, which is a freephone number. For more information please refer to their website, outsideclinic.co.uk/hearing-test."

---

Walks at Rosliston Forestry Centre

Photography Walk, Sunday 4th February

Join us for a photography walk around Rosliston Forestry Centre (DE12 8JX). The 1½ hour walk will be led by a professional photographer who will give tips on how to get the best from your photos this winter. Meet at 9.45 at the Centre café for 10 am start. Please bring your own camera.

Winter Woodland Walk, Sunday 11th February

Enjoy a brisk walk around the Forestry Centre and take in the beautiful scenery on a winter's afternoon. Warm up afterwards with hot chocolate in the Hub café. Meet at 1.45 in the café foyer for a 2 pm start. No need to book. £2.50 includes chocolate.

For more information on either walk, call 01283 563483.

---

Tesco Buses

Notts & Derby bus service 978 runs between the Tesco stores in Mickleover and Burton. It is free, but you are asked to show a Tesco receipt on the return journey to prove you have shopped at that particular store. When possible the bus has a regular driver so that s/he gets to know the regular customers. It stops in Repton - Milton Road, Springfield Road and the Cross - and Newton Solney at the Brickmakers. The only other scheduled stops are at the Rising Sun in Willington, Findern Green and Havenbaulk Lane.

WEDNESDAY
Burton Tesco	1040	1210		Mickleover Tesco	1245	13.55
NS Brickmakers	1049	1219		Repton Cross	1304	14.14
Repton Cross	1053	1223		NS Brickmakers	1308	. . . . .
Mickleover Tesco	1112	1242		Burton Tesco	1317	. . . . .
FRIDAY
Burton Tesco	1040	1210	1320	Mickleover Tesco	1005	1135	1245	13.55
NS Brickmakers	1049	1219	1329	Repton Cross	1025	1155	1305	14.14
Repton Cross	1053	1223	1333	NS Brickmakers	1029	1159	1309	. . . . .
Mickleover Tesco	1112	1242	1350	Burton Tesco	1040	1210	1320	. . . . .

There is no service on Good Friday.

---

Environment Matters

Transforming the Trent Valley

Covering some 200 square miles in Staffordshire and South Derbyshire, the TTTV project is an initiative which could see major investment locally, and lead to a wide range of environmental, cultural and community-led projects within the river valleys of the Trent from Rugeley towards Shardlow, and two of its tributaries, the Tame from Tamworth and the Dove from Uttoxeter. Once an integral part of the working lives of local communities, much of the Trent Valley is now hidden from view and difficult to access. The aim is to get people closer to a beautiful and revitalised landscape

Development funding in the region of £250,000 has already been secured from the Heritage Lottery Fund and a full bid for ca. £3million will be submitted this summer, with matched funding in place. When this is approved there will be a delivery period of 4 to 5 years.

The aim is to:

• Create a more robust and attractive landscape for local people and for visiting tourists to enjoy with access to sites of wildlife and cultural interest.
• Reveal the archaeological and industrial heritage that has shaped the river valleys.
• Restore characteristic river valley landscape features such as meandering river channels, water meadows and waterside trees.
• Create new and improved wildlife habitats such as reed beds, wet pastures and woodland encouraging species such as bittern, osprey and waders on land formerly quarried for sand and gravel.
• Improve accessibility on foot, cycle and horseback with new opportunities for recreation and sport.

Local input

In the Repton / Willington area, there are four meetings – 'community conversations' –during January and February to seek views on how the money should be spent. Even though the invitation came very late in the day, the first meeting in mid-January was well attended by a good number of people representing a range of local interest groups – including local Parish Councils and the County Council – who made many suggestions. If your interest was not represented, it may still be possible to join in the three remaining sessions.

---

You and your Pet

If you find a dead cat

Anyone who has lost a cat will know how distressing it can be. Sometimes they will return chastened after a day or two, having been locked in a neighbour's shed or garage, but sometimes they never return, and the owner is left to grieve and wonder.

So if you find a dead cat, please help. If possible, please take it to any vet who will scan for a chip so that they can contact the owner. If the cat is not chipped the vet can dispose of it. In either case you will not be charged.

Also, please email enquiries@derbybranch.cats.org.uk to include it in the Cats Protection Derby Branch Facebook page. Please include full details including a description, and where and when it was found. If possible, please put a notice up locally with similar details. Your kindness can ease someone's grief.

---

Charities

Padley helps the most deprived

Padley has a tremendous heritage in Derby. Founded in 1985, it is one of the city's longest established charities. It is also one of the largest local charities. Providing services to the most deprived and vulnerable in society, it helps people with issues such as homelessness, debt and destitution, drugs, alcohol, mental health issues, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, severe autism and long term unemployment.

Padley's ethos is about helping people to grow and move on. For some this is about moving on from a difficult past, for others it's dealing with overwhelming circumstances or coping with a disability or condition that has robbed them of their self-confidence or changed their life. And while people are rebuilding their lives and confidence, Padley provides a safe environment for those who are most at risk.

How YOU can help

There are many ways you can give support. During Lent the churches will be running as usual their collections of food and personal items for the homeless – see page 6. And on page 23 you will find details of Padley's annual 'Good as New' clothes sale. Although it doesn't take place until March, this is the time to spring clean your wardrobe and donate all the good quality clothes and accessories you no longer need. Other regular fundraising events include the London Marathon, abseiling, running, cycling, and sleep-outs.

In addition, Padley is always looking for volunteers. From marketing to fundraising, driving to classroom assistant, work in the homeless centre or in the shop, there are lots of opportunities. See the opportunities on their website at padleygroup.com, and while there, look for their programme of fundraising events.

Padley 4000

When Derby City Council cut its financial support for the Padley Group in 2013, it left a £100,000 funding gap and there was a real danger that the centre would have to close, sending many homeless people back on to the streets.

Thanks to the generosity of the Padley 4000, however, it remains open. In the course of a year, the hostel helps more than 100 people with a short stay, advice, support and then sustainable tenancies, and the Day Centre receives more than 24,000 visits from people who are destitute, homeless or in desperate need.

So if donation appeals to you rather more than sleep-outs, for just £2 a month, £24 a year, you too could become one of the Padley 4000. Download the Padley 4000 form at padleygroup.com.

---

Derby City Mission

. . . has many strands. It offers free debt advice to people on low incomes, provides food parcels for those in particular need, and at Christmas it reaches out to underprivileged families with the Christmas message, sweets, cards and presents.

Much of the Mission's work is with 'street people'. Street Pastors care and listen, providing food, hot drinks, warm clothing and friendship, working hard at getting those who want to change into homes of their own and linking them into a church which will support and encourage them. The approach has seen remarkable results, including drops in crime in areas where teams have been working.

The Mission also runs Derby Churches Night Shelter which started in 2013 when Derby City Council cut funding for homeless beds. Church venues in or near the city centre each open one night a week in rotation. Volunteers provide a warm welcome and substantial meal to 35 guests, before paid overnight staff take over as guests sleep in sleeping bags on mattresses.

---

Neighbourhood Watch

Identity Fraud

For identity fraud, criminals need to know personal information such as your name, date of birth, address and bank details. These are often obtained through hacking, data theft, and social media. To protect yourself the police suggest:

• Remember that your bank or building society will never ask for a whole security number, PIN or password.
• Ensure that you check your statements carefully and report any suspicious activity to your bank or financial service provider straight away.
• Tell your bank or credit card company if an expected statement doesn't arrive.
• Always shred anything that has your name, address or financial information.
• If you move house, ask Royal Mail to redirect your post for at least a year.
• Two to three months after you have moved, check your personal credit file with Callcredit, Equifax or Experian to look for signs of fraudulent activity.
• Report any suspicious activity to the police on 101. In an emergency dial 999.

For more advice on fraud, visit www.derbyshire.police.uk/stampoutfraud

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

---

Gardening Notes

Winter Pruning

February is a good time to prune some of our most precious shrubs. Many don't need regular pruning but almost all get too large eventually. Then it can be difficult to decide what to do, so we put it off for another year. Acer palmatum is a good example. At this time of year it is acceptable to do major pruning if necessary, taking off significant branches. Always try to keep a good, balanced shape while leaving some branches unpruned; you can always do more next year.

Cercis 'Forest Pansy' and cotinus can be cut hard back into old wood with good results; we only do it occasionally. You will do a better job if you choose a mild day, but it is important to prune before the plants wake up for spring. Such renovative pruning may result in losing the current year's flowers, and if you are very unlucky it may even kill the plant, but with that thought in mind, you can improve the chances of survival by mulching around the plant and providing it with fertilizer and water later in the year.

Hydrangea paniculata also flowers on new growth and can be cut back fairly hard to strong buds, which will result in bigger and better flowers. There are some cracking varieties such as 'Pinky Winky' and 'Vanille Fraise'. In contrast, the mop-headed varieties flower on last year's growth. Old flower heads can be removed and shoots pruned back to the highest strong bud.

Prune late-flowering clematis such as viticella and texensis down to a metre or even lower. You can also prune back buddleja and lavatera which flower on new growth, but there may be some dieback on new growth. Don't forget to prune your roses.

In the greenhouse

From last year I saved some begonias that I particularly liked, and have just laid them out on a tray in the greenhouse. I am hoping that with a little heat that they will sprout again. They came from a supermarket and were not expensive but did extremely well.

Prune overwintered fuchsias in the greenhouse to one or two buds on each stem, treating plumbago and passiflora similarly.

In the vegetable garden

You can warm up the soil in the vegetable patch by covering it with plastic cloches or fleece. Keeping rain off will help if you have a heavy soil. You can sow carrots and parsnips in February but only if you have warm soil; it is just a waste of seed if your soil is cold and wet. Broad beans and peas, including sweet peas, can be sown outside but benefit from some protection. Start early potatoes by putting them in a tray, the 'eye' end uppermost, in a light, frost-free place.

In the flower garden

Cut back deciduous grasses and any herbaceous perennials that you left in the border to provide winter interest. Start slug protection on 14th February, especially around hostas.

---

The virtues of gardening

Last January we included an article describing volunteering as the new wonder drug, but in fact, there's plenty of evidence that a whole range of social and practical activities can improve our wellbeing.

A report by the King's Fund extols the virtues of gardening. The physical benefits are pretty obvious – digging or raking a lawn for 30 minutes requires as much energy as a two kilometre run – so it should come as no surprise that gardening can help reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity and cancer.

But even gentle gardening has an impact in much less obvious ways. It can improve balance, thus helping reduce falls in the elderly, and tackle anxiety and stress. Simply being in a garden can be beneficial too. In care homes, gardens have been found to be good for reducing the agitation and aggression linked to dementia, while hospices have found the tranquillity of nature can play an important part in end-of-life care.

When it comes to modern health care, the simple everyday activities can, it seems, play just as crucial a role as new ground-breaking medicines. So, however small your garden, make an effort to enjoy it this spring.