Voice Magazines - Alfreton & Villages Edition - August 2024
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HelloReaders,
Well,whataneventfulmonth!
We have a new Prime Minister, Donald Trump has lost part of his ear, we’ve still not entered British Summertime and it’s stillnotcominghome!
Whatever your political leanings, I think everyone can agree that it was time for a change and the proof of the pudding is in the eating and all that. Speaking of a changing of the guard…. Southgate has left the building after 8yrs in charge. Again, I think we can agree, nobody can denythatonpaperhehashadasuccessful reign but his particular type of football is a tough watch! I suppose like everything, we’re all armchair experts and we would havedonethingsverydifferentlyandwith resounding success no doubt! However, as with all these roles, which carry the weight of a nation on their shoulders, you cannot please all of the people all of the time and perhaps our tolerance, patience and understanding, is what makes us the greatnationthatweare.
Anyway, July is always a busy one for us, social gatherings, birthdays and sports tournaments and this year has proven to be no exception. I played in a Netball tournament at the start of the month, it had rained of course, so the outdoor courts were slightly slippy and I went down like a sack of spuds! My team were very impressed with my splits….so was I tbf, didn’t know I could still do that!! It got me thinking whether I could have a goatgeriatricgymnasticsintheOlympics? (I know there isn’t such a thing but there should be, gives us all something to aspire to rather than watching the very talented butexceedinglybendyyoungsters).
Atthetimeofsendingtoprint,theOlympics haven’t quite started yet but I’m games ready…..bought myself some earplugs to blockoutMrEmily’swittering!!
HappyReading,
PS: Don’t forget to mention the ‘Voice’ when you use any of the companies in this magazine
PostcardsThe Text Messages of Their Day
We are so used to the instancy of our 21st century text messaging and social media we forget that until fairly recently, handwriting a note on a postcard and dropping it in a post-box was actually the fastest way to reach out to someone.
The postcard as we know it today has its roots in the mid-19th century. The first known picture postcard was sent in 1840 by Theodore Hook, a British writer and practical joker, who apparently posted a hand-painted card to himself. However, it wasn’t until 1869 that postcards began to be officially issued by postal services. The Austrian government was the pioneer introducing the “Correspondenz-Karte,” a simple, pre-stamped card intended for short messages.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked the Golden Age of postcards. Advances in printing technology made it possible to produce cards in large quantities, and they quickly became a popular means of communication. Postcards featured everything from scenic views and portraits to humorous cartoons and advertisements. They were an affordable way to send a quick note, share travel experiences, and stay in touch with loved ones.
One amusing aspect of early postcards was their use as a form of social media. Much like today’s Instagram, people would send postcards to boast about their travels, share snippets of their lives, and even engage in a bit of oneupmanship. “Wish you were here” became more than just a phrase—it was a way to showcase exotic destinations and adventures and make your friends and family jealous.
And who can forget the “saucy” seaside picture postcards? Full of cheeky innuendo and double entendre.
Postcards also played a significant role during wartime. Soldiers sent them from the front lines to reassure their families, and patriotic themes and propaganda were common on the cards. During World War I and II, postcards provided a vital link between soldiers and their loved ones.
With the advent of telephones and the internet, the postcard’s popularity waned. Why wait days for a message to arrive when you could just pick up your mobile and send a photo or an email? Yet, despite these technological advances, postcards never truly disappeared. In recent years, they have experienced a nostalgic revival. Collectors seek out vintage postcards, some of which can fetch a hefty price.
Picture postcards can also be a great way to remember the trips you make—tangible images you can stick in an album instead of scrolling through your mobile phone. With the added bonus that the images are taken by professionals, not the out of focus, skew-whiff shots you may have managed to take.
As we hurtle through the digital age, the postcard remains a cherished means of communication. A reminder that sometimes, the old ways are the best ways. So, the next time you’re travelling and want to brighten someone’s day, consider sending a postcard. A small gesture with a big impact that could really cheer someone up.
These articles are researched and written by Laura Billingham, a local content writer and author. Laura moved to the Peak District several years ago to pursue her passion for writing.
Legal Guide: CYCLE ACCIDENT CLAIMS
If a cyclist, pedestrian or horse rider has been involved in an accident with a car, another cyclist or even a severe pothole in the road, it is important to understand what to do immediately after the accident occurs.
Can a cyclist, pedestrian or horse rider file a personal injury claim?
The answer is yes. It is treated the same way as a car driver bringing a claim against another car driver or a public liability claim against the local authority responsible for maintaining that road.
What does the law say about who is to blame?
The courts will always look at the actual circumstances of the case and see who is to blame. They will treat parties the same and will investigate what happened and who did what, to whom and why.
However, the law does recognise that a motorist is driving a metal armoured and potentially lethal weapon, which means the motorist has to take extra care when driving and therefore, they are more likely to be held responsible. The courts consider this to be a reasonable response to driving cars where there are other, more vulnerable and exposed road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians.
What should you do before you leave the scene of the accident?
It’s not easy to keep your wits about you when you have been hurt but try and get at least a name and number so you can call them later for a witness statement.
It’s important to collect the other parties’ details that caused the accident. Always look around for any potential witnesses. With cyclists and pedestrians,
make sure you get their full name and address and with motorists also collect their registration number.
Always remember to TAKE PHOTOS if you’ve been in an accident. Mobile phones are great, and you can get instant evidence of what happened, which helps when trying to prove things later. Such as; where you were when you were hit, what the weather was like, the time of day (or night) and facial identification of the person who hit you or of any witnesses. As photos are factual proof, these will all help secure and expedite your claim.
Who pays?
In accident claims, the driver/vehicle that caused the accident pays. It’s unlawful to not have insurance to cover this risk, so actually, it’s the driver’s insurer who pays.
If there is no insurance cover in place then the government has put in place the MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau), which covers road traffic accidents for motorised vehicles where the driver causing them doesn’t have valid insurance. The MIB also has a scheme that helps when a hit and run accident has occurred.
How much is my injury claim worth?
Your case could be worth anywhere from £1k to £50k+. It completely depends on the severity of your injuries and the injury’s continuing effects on your life, work, needs and if there is any future prospect for a full recovery.
So please take care over the summer, and if you are involved in an accident get details of witnesses and the other party involved then get advice from a personal injury solicitor as soon as you can. Almost all law firms offer free advice for accident claims, so don’t be afraid of approaching them, the are there to help.
“Visited T Nutt and Sons showroom to look for new carpet for our lounge/dining room. We were met with a warm welcome and invited to browse the extensive collection on display. The staff were very attentive and invited us to take samples home if required. We duly made an appointment for a measure up and quote and placed our order. At no time were we pressured or asked to pay money up front - which is refreshing in today's market. The fitting team arrived promptly on the agreed date and were polite and professional throughout. They made a terrific job and we were highly satisfied with the work. It makes a change to deal with a such a friendly efficient company who are happy to deal with you. We would certainly go back for more.”
Would you believe that until last year, I had never been on holiday to Greece?
We spent a whole day discovering the story of the Parthenon and the Acropolis starting off at the new Acropolis Museum followed by a guided walking tour to see it for ourselves.
I changed all that by having a wonderful short break in Chania, Crete in May, but I will tell you about that another time, because now I want to tell you about the amazing city break, we had in October.
We flew from Birmingham for a 4-night trip to Athens. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit, you will know how compact it is, so many of the historical sites are within walking distance.
Now, I say you can walk everywhere, but who doesn’t love a sightseeing bus. They have different routes, we opted for the city line, but if we had longer, we would have added the beach riviera line. Yes, there is a beach just outside Athens. If you wanted to stay for longer, you could even turn your trip into a twin centre holiday. City and beach.
When you think of Athens, the picture in your head is the Acropolis and is a must for any visitor, but there is so much more to see. Let me tell you what we did.
Top tip: Doing the museum first brings the visit to life. Pre-book both to avoid the queues and to guarantee entry.
For the other city sights we bought a pass to cover them all including the museums. We managed to see The Ancient Agora, Temple of Zeus, Roman Forum, The Tomb of the unknown solider with the changing of the guard, Archaeological Museum, National Gardens, Panathenaic Stadium and so many more places.
The other place we visited that was pretty special was the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion at sunset. Again, we pre-booked as this is a bestseller.
You don’t have to be a history buff to love Athens, as it is a vibrant city by day and night, it’s a fabulous place for foodies and for people watching. We met people from all over the world during our stay.
If you think Athens is the place for you, please get in touch.
slimmingworld.co.uk
Chef with over 35 years experience Varied Menu Options Sunday Roasts
All food freshly prepared
All meats sourced locally from Deakins Butchers OPEN FROM Wed-Fri 5-8:30 | Sat 12-8:30 | Sun 12-4
Slimming World Recipe
Chilli-loaded wedges
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Put the wedges on a non-stick baking tray, spray with low-calorie cooking spray and season lightly. Bake for 25 minutes, then turn, spray again and bake for a further 25 minutes until golden.
2. At the same time, spray a nonstick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and put it over a medium-high heat. Add the mince and stir-fry for 10 minutes, then add the onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until softened. Add the pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the canned tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle in the cumin, fajita seasoning, paprika and a few twists of black pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir in the fresh tomatoes. Remove from the heat.
4. Preheat your grill to high. Tip the wedges into an ovenproof dish, spoon over the mince and sprinkle over the cheese. Add the chillies, if using, and grill for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese starts to brown. Divide between 2 plates and serve.
Ingredients:
• 2 baking potatoes, cut into wedges
• Low-calorie cooking spray
• 250g lean beef mince (5% fat or less)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
230g can chopped tomatoes
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 80g reduced-fat Cheddar
• Fresh green jalapeno chillies, finely chopped (optional)
*Spice blends are Free so long as they’re made from herbs and spices only and don’t include any Synned ingredients, like sugar, flour or oil. Check the label to be sure and count the Syns as necessary. What a combination...tasty chilli, gooey cheesy and crispy wedges! Perfect as a meal with some salad or as a side with a bbq. Yum!
• 2 tsp fajita seasoning*
COACH TOUR HOLIDAYS
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Royal Hotel
Mon 2nd - Fri 6th Sept
5 Days - £375
LYTHAM ST ANNE’S – KITE FESTIVAL
Inn On The Prom Sun 15th - Mon 16th Sept 2 Days - £130
Queens Hotel Thu 19th - Fri 20th Sept 2 Days - £125
ISLE OF WIGHT
Channel View Hotel Mon 23rd - Fri 27th Sept 5 Days - £450
MORECAMBE
Auckland Hotel Mon 7th - Fri 11th Oct 5 Days - £425
PHONE: 01773 590 808 01246 604 764 or 07483 357 958 Go online WWW.CLAIRSCOACHES.CO.UK NEW BOOKING OFFICE: Parkvilla,124 Market Street, Clay Cross, Derbyshire S45 9LY
Alexandra Hotel Mon 7th - Fri 11th Oct 5 Days - £650
Crown Hotel Mon 21st - Fri 25th Oct 5 Days - £399 YORK & WHITBY
Studley Castle, Warwickshire Mon 14th - Fri 18th Oct 5 Days - £585
MOBILE BOOKING OFFICE LOCATIONS
2nd Tuesday of each month 9am – 1pm | South Normanton Market Place
2nd Thursday of each month 9.30am - 12.00pm | Bolsover Market
2nd Friday of each month 9am – 1pm | Ripley Market Place
D.M. FURNISHINGS
All our BRITISH MADE sofas, chairs & recliners are made to order and normally delivered within 6-8 weeks. Choose from over 2000 fabrics and leathers.
Only 100% genuine leather used on all our Italian suites, which are made to order in any colour and normally delivered within 8 - 10 weeks
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Your local rise and recliner specialists • We have recliners that can be delivered within 48 hours
Electric adjustable beds available along with divans and headboards in ALL sizes
3rd Tuesday of each month 9am - 12noon | Blackwell Community Centre
3rd Thursday of each month 9am – 1pm | Alfreton Severn Square Car Park (Outside B&M)
3rd Friday of each month 9am – 1pm | Sutton-in-Ashfield, Portland Square
9-11 Outram Street, Sutton- in- Ashfield, Notts, NG17 4BA (Next door to Wilko’s and with Asda car park directly behind us)
Full range of mattresses inc. orthopaedic, pocket sprung, memory foam, etc in ALL sizes
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Premier Blinds , Curtains and Shutters.
I met with Grant and Linda of Premier Blinds at their beautiful home in Eastwood, where they told me all about how their business began.
At 17 years old, Grant began his soft furnishing life at a furniture shop called “Charles Brown & Sons of Eastwood”, who specialised in commercial blinds and curtains. Grant worked there for many years and gained a lot of experience and knowledge about the industry.
In 2006 Grant, and his wife Linda, combined forces, and started Premier Blinds & Curtains. They opened a showroom on Grosvenor Road in Ripley, where they stayed for 10 years. The showroom was a place to showcase the wide range of soft furnishings with ‘made to measure’ curtains and blinds as well as cushions and bed throws etc on show and a range of stunning Café style, Tier on Tier shutters which come in an array of colours. The showroom also displayed their ‘make-up service’ where customer could bring in their own fabrics for Premier Blinds to make bespoke Roman blinds, curtains etc.
9 years ago, Grant and Linda decided to run their business from home this was the best decision they ever made. Premier Blinds are still a professional, friendly business offering the same services with the same high standards
who, no longer have the costs of a showroom so can pass these savings on to their customers.
This husband and wife team work side by side offering the complete package Grant is the expert in the soft furnishing, whereas Linda, is the expert in organising the whole business. She deals with all aspects from the first call in, taking all the enquiries, to arranging fitting of the completed product. Linda, also based from home, will be your contact, she makes sure everything runs smoothly and that you are completely happy with the product and service. Grant, being the specialist will come to your home to measure and quote, and then to fit your new purchase. Grant has 30 years’ experience in the soft furnishing industry so, if you are unsure what you are looking for, Grant can definitely help.
MORE THAN JUST A TITANIC SURVIVOR:
The Remarkable Life of Lawrence
Born in the quaint town of Wirksworth on New Year’s Eve in 1877, Lawrence Beesley embarked on a life marked by intellectual curiosity and extraordinary events. His early education at Wirksworth Grammar School, now known as Anthony Gell School, paved the way for his later studies in Natural Science at Cambridge University. It was during these formative years that Beesley made a significant scientific contribution by identifying a rare species of algae, Ulvella Beesley, found in Fleam Dyke, forever etching his name in the annals of botanical history.
After his academic achievements, Beesley returned to his roots in Wirksworth, taking on the role of a teacher at his alma mater. His passion for education eventually led him to the position of Science Master at Dulwich College, where he inspired countless students with his knowledge and enthusiasm.
In April 1912, seeking to reunite with his brother in the Americas, Beesley boarded the RMS Titanic. The journey that began with high hopes soon turned into a fight for survival. On the night of April 16th, as the Titanic met its fateful encounter with an iceberg, Beesley was resting in his cabin. The ensuing chaos saw him rush to the deck, where he was fortunate enough to secure a spot in lifeboat 13, one of the few lifeboats that would save just 710 of the 2,224 passengers and crew on board.
Beesley
Upon reaching New York, Beesley channelled his harrowing experience into writing. He produced a vivid and compelling account titled “The Loss of the Titanic, Its Story and Its Lessons” of his time aboard the ship and the tragedy which befell him and his fellow passengers. Published a mere nine weeks after the disaster, the book quickly became one of the definitive stories of the sinking, offering a unique perspective on the event that captivated the world.
Beesley’s connection to the Titanic did not end with his book. Decades later, he served as an advisor for the 1958 film “A Night to Remember,” which sought to bring the story of the Titanic to the silver screen. His involvement took an unexpected turn when, driven by a mix of nostalgia and perhaps a desire to relive his past, he attempted to blend in with the extras during the filming of the sinking scene. This spirited act led to his removal from the set.
Lawrence Beesley passed away in 1967, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond his survival of the sinking of the Titanic. His life was a testament to resilience, intellectual pursuit, and an enduring will to share his experiences for the benefit of future generations. Beesley’s story reminds us that history is shaped not just by events but by the individuals who live through them and choose to tell their tales.
RMS Titanic: Intended to be the queen of the ocean, at the time of her launch Titanic was the largest ship in the world.
Health & Beauty
AMBER VALLEY RUGBY CLUB
PRE - SEASON IN FULL SWING!
Pre-season has started, and the men’s rugby team is back! The guys are excited yet dreading the tough drills-they love to joke that they “hate” me for it. But it’s all in good fun. Our sessions are filled with high-energy workouts, skill-building exercises, and team spirit. Everyone is pushing their limits, gearing up for a fantastic season ahead. Join us for the fun and intensity—training has never been this exhilarating! Contact Stuart at 07966 867 946
After a successful season, getting promoted will make it hard to replicate past success. Our goal is to consolidate while building the squad. We’re excited to welcome new and experienced players. Push yourself out of your comfort zone—it might start a journey to the World Cup one day. With a huge emphasis on the women’s game next year, why wait? Join now and be part of a great team. Training is twice a week in a relaxed yet progressive atmosphere. Come down and give it a go! Contact Gareth at 07595 520 537.
The Minis and Juniors Presentation Day was a massive success with a fantastic turnout. Senior men’s and ladies’ captains presented awards, supported by other senior players. Kids had a blast on inflatables and enjoyed a fun game of tag rugby against the coaches. A big thank you to all the volunteers in the kitchen and bar. We celebrated the first girl winning the Compound Fitness All Blacks Award. Training has now restarted on a reduced timetable, but full-season training resumes in August. Contact us for more information on joining the team! For those interested in joining, call Paul at 07790 403 043.
More than just a club, we are the #ValleyFamily. You can visit our website www.ambervalleyrfc.co.uk, Facebook & Instagram pages to contact us or follow what we do. You can find us at Lower Somercotes, Somercotes,
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All Around the Shire
DAYS OF SUMMER
Summer is finally here and with it comes memories of endless school holidays and playing out until it was time for tea.
Our adventures were unplanned and we had nothing with us except perhaps an empty jam jar for catching minnows or frogs. Our friends were our fellowadventurers. We didn’t seem to get hungry, cold or tired. If we did pop home, we might have a stick of rhubarb with a saucer of sugar, eaten on the doorstep. Berries were picked and eaten when in season. Dens were made, improved upon, abandoned and new dens made.
My dad recounts times of how he and his mates caught the early morning milk train going from Derby and ending up in Blackpool. All this with no money and no plan.
Family days out would certainly have included a rucksack or a duffel bag with paper folded map, an
itchy tartan rug, a thermos flask with a cork stopper or bottle of cold tea.
And always sandwiches. The fillings could include jam, luncheon meat or spam, fish paste, potted dog or smelly egg. It all tasted good out of doors.
We grazed our knees, fell into and out of friendships, had fights, got lost and got into mischief. But we made wonderful memories.
Janet and Paul Barrass are All Around the Shire. Find us on or email: oldfield512@btinternet.com
Flake’ s Favourites
Re-walking Rafa’s Rambles
5½
-MILE CIRCULAR WALK FROM STRELLEY HALL, STRELLEY
A medium length walk which should take you and your dog around 2-3 hours to complete. There are a couple of short sections of road so please take care. Most of the walk is on paths and trails but please wear appropriate footwear and please follow the countryside code.
One of the good things about a disappointing summer is that the milder weather allows us to get out and about with our dogs a bit easier. So why not make the most of it with this cracking little walk!
We begin outside Strelley Hall before crossing over the M1 and following a section of the Robin Hood Way to Swingate. We walk past the Swingate Water Tower and then loop through some nice countryside bordering Kimberley and Awsworth before heading back towards Swingate and retracing our steps back to the start.
START: PARK ON ROAD OPPOSITE THE ENTRANCE TO STRELLEY HALL, MAIN ST. STRELLEY. NOTTS. NG8 6PE
1. Standing with your back to the entrance to the hall, turn right and walk along the road keeping a stone wall on your right. Continue to pass through a gap adjacent to a large metal gate to continue straight ahead along a gravel lane signposted bridleway.
2. Follow the lane as it bends around to the left and crosses over the motorway. Immediately after and at a T junction of lanes turn left along a lane signposted bridleway. The lane narrows and bends to the right then continues with a hedge on your left and open views to your right.
3. Keep walking straight ahead for some distance ignoring any routes off. The lane will turn to gravel and then join with a single lane tarmac road with a hedge on both sides.
4. After some distance the road turns sharp to the right and you will have a house directly in front of you. Go to the left of the house to take a marked footpath with a hedge on your left. Follow the footpath as it turns sharp left and then sharp right. Upon reaching a road turn left.
5. Pass a water tower on your right and continue with a tall metal fence on your right. When the fence ends turn sharp right onto a footpath signposted for ‘Kimberley’. When the metal fence ends and gives way to a wooden fence continue until reaching a road.
6. Turn left along the road until it ends then keep straight ahead along a marked footpath with some trees on your right. When the trees end, keep straight across
an open section of field and then continue with trees on your right. Just prior to reaching the very far side of the field turn right into the trees along a footpath going downhill.
7. Follow the path back out of the trees and keep on it ignoring any other path to the right, keeping a drop to your right. You will head back into some trees for a short distance. At a yellow marker post on your left turn right ignoring the path uphill in front of you. Pass another marker post on your left to emerge back out of the trees.
8. Continue to pass 2 more marker posts on your right. A short distance after the second marker post the hedge on your right ends. At this point be sure to keep left along a footpath and ignore a metal swing gate that you can see over to your diagonal right.
9. Continue along the footpath for a short distance then pass through some trees until reaching a marker post on your left and a tall signpost in front of you. At this point turn left following the arrow and the ‘Great Northern Railway Path’. Continue along the path with trees on your right and just a few trees and then open views to your left.
10. Walk along this path for some distance ignoring any paths to the left or right until reaching a hand rail on your right and a set of steps down to a road. Turn left along the road for a short distance and then turn left to cross over a stile onto footpath marked for ‘Strelley’. Continue along the footpath to cross over another stile and into a field.
11. Walk straight ahead across the field, going gently uphill and staying close to some trees on your left. At the far side of the field and a T junction with a lane turn left along the gravel lane. After a very short distance, at a signpost, turn right along a path to pass through a metal swing gate. Continue straight
ahead through another field, keeping some trees on your right. Ignore any paths to the right to reaching another swing gate. Pass through some trees and then cross a field staying close to some trees on your left.
12. Keep ahead to cross a stile adjacent to a large metal gate then continue with trees on your left. At the far side of this field pass through a gap adjacent to a large metal gate and onto a lane/road. Turn left and then immediately keep left to continue along a gravel lane going gently uphill signposted for ‘bridleway’.
13. Continue uphill for quite some distance until reaching a T junction of lanes. Turn right to continue along a gravel lane. After some distance you will pass a footpath on your right signposted for ‘Cossall’. Continue ahead along the lane as it bears around to the left and turns into a tarmac road. Follow the lane around to the left and pass some houses on your right. When the houses on your right end continue straight ahead to pass a tall metal fence and a water tower on your left.
14. Just after the water tower and just prior to the first house on your right, turn right along a footpath. Follow the path, and then join the road, retracing your steps from earlier straight ahead along the road as it becomes a bridleway, then a path. Continue as it turns sharp left and then turn right to cross back over the motorway. Follow the lane around to the right and pass through a gap by metal gate back onto the road you began on to return to the start.
This walk is for illustrative purposes only. Voice Magazines Ltd takes no responsibility for anyone who chooses to follow this route and encourages all walkers to obey all byelaws and signs and to respect the area they are walking in, ensuring they pick up all dog mess and obey the countryside code at all times.
STRELLEY HALL
Babbington Swingate Awsworth Kimberley
Alfreton & District Heritage Trust
AUGUST 2024
TRAMPS AND STRANGERS
Around the time of the First World War and indeed afterwards, times were hard for ordinary people. Many were forced to travel the country looking for work.
Some were artisans or tradesmen and for them a night in a common lodging house was where they laid their weary head.
In Alfreton there were two lodging houses, one on King Street and the other one attached to the Travellers’ Rest on the High Street. Both were used by tramps and strangers to the town and these people were generally regarded with suspicion by town inhabitants, after all, they had a good lot of pride and didn’t want their tranquility disturbed by these “nothings to nobody”
Most of them were badly shod and poorly clothed and known
to the police as persons of ‘No Fixed Abode.’ Some of the tramps just went straight through the town making for the Workhouse in Belper to spend the night, the other alternative being a night outdoors with the sky for the roof, the earth for their bed and the stars and moon for light. A hedgerow or barn perhaps something of a luxury.
A night’s doss as it was known, at the Travellers’ Rest lodging house was sixpence a night. No money, no doss and strictly cash. The landlord of the pub controlled the lodging house and it was he who made the rules. He didn’t expect them to frequent any other pub but his, they were his lodgers and had to be his customers. Beggars could not be choosers! If any rule was broken they would be thrown out for the police to deal with. He sometimes met
On Saturday, 7th September, 2024, we will resume our programme of Morwood, Hall Street, Alfreton. They start at 1pm and you will be sure of a warm welcome. They will be held every two weeks and details of the programme will be available soon. Should anyone wish to sponsor a speaker then please contact John Rayson on 07925 360 718 for further details.
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NORTHUMBERLAND
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Treat yourself to a luxury break at the 4* Gold Award winning Little Red Hen House. An elegant and cosy holiday home just a 7 minute drive from award-winning and dog-friendly Warkworth beach.
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✽ Perfect for exploring the stunning Northumbrian Heritage Coastline
✽ Close to a range of dog friendly pubs, cafes and restaurants in stunning Warkworth
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Paul M Longden Ltd
BOOK REVIEW
THE BEE STING - PAUL MURRAY
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray is a hefty book. Shortlisted for last year’s Booker Prize, winner of any number of other prizes and scoring highly in many book of the year recommendations, it’s a 650 page immersive dive into a well-to-do Irish family trying to recover from the 2008 financial crisis.
Make no mistake, the Barnes are in deep trouble. From running the biggest company in the area, they’re now on the edge of bankruptcy, children are going astray, marriage on the edge and to
make things worse, because they had a position in the local community, everyone knows what’s going on.
It’s great entertainment, funny and tragic at the same time and great on the human condition, the writing is sharp and clever and stylistically quite different. Mr Murray is also very good at pulling the rug from under readers so you never know quite what to expect.
It might be long but it’s a real page turner and full of insight into what makes people tick.
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THE MAGIC OF SUMMER HOLIDAYS
Summer holidays have always held a special place in our hearts. They signify a break from routine, an opportunity to explore new places, and a chance to create memories that last a lifetime.
As a child, the summer break from school seemed to last an eternity, and the weather was always better then, wasn’t it? Endless days of sunshine, playing in the garden, or the park, eating ice creams and getting sticky with the run-off from ice lollies.
I don’t remember us actually having an away from home holiday over a summer break. We usually had our trips in May…cheaper then you see! A few days in a tiny caravan with my mum and grandmother was the furthest we ever got in July or August.
But as I became an adult (and before I had kids of my own) I had several memorable trips overseas with various friends.
The excitement would begin long before the trip itself. We’d get together and pore over holiday brochures (these were pre-internet days) finally selecting our destination before heading into a travel agent to book. We hadn’t a care in the world back in those days. Our summer hols, in common with most 20 something’s, were a time to get a suntan, drink too much, and have lots of fun.
And then you grow up, the kids arrive, and holidays change forever (or at least until the kids leave home!).
Instead of relaxing holidays chilling, you spend your days ensuring your offspring don’t come to an untimely end in the pool or sea. You lose your breath blowing up endless inflatables
(which they lose interest in after half an hour) and lose your voice shouting at the little darlings telling them to “be careful”. And that’s before the endless arguments involving food that doesn’t look, or taste, the way their favourite meals at home do.
And yet, these, to be honest, quite stressful holidays, will still become memories to cherish as the children grow into stroppy teenagers who would really rather be anywhere than on holiday with “the parents”!
Once the kids are grown, have flown the nest, and are taking their own families away, it can be a great time to rediscover summer breaks – although taking a break during the school holidays can be expensive. Plan to travel before the schools break up, or once they return. It will be cheaper and quieter.
You could, however, help your kids out over the summer and take the grandkids for days out, feed them lots of “naughty treats”, and return them to their parents with a sugar high… revenge is, ahem…sweet!
Summer holidays, whether long or short, are more than just a break from the daily grind; they’re an opportunity to reconnect with what truly matters…family and friends. It doesn’t matter if you don’t brave the chaos that airports seem to have become, and choose instead to stay close to home. What matters is being with people you care about, making memories…
Guess the words and Fill in the crossword ! Pitcherwits®
Pitcherwits® are crossword puzzles where some of the clues are in pictures.
Across
1 Hit the ground running on raft of styling details (6,5)
5 Spot members for a walk on deck? (3,4)
Across
9 Throw it up to where the organ is (4)
10 Leave out of my inclusive talk firstly (4)
11 Log growth of Northern tree (5)
12 Resonant, and sent out as colours mixed (4)
13 Tackle the terrible rage (4)
Down
2 Positive reply, but a bit slowly established (3)
3 Donkey to arrive in the passage of time (3)
7 Omitted when caught underside (4,3)
14 Also sounding like a pair (3)
15 Goodbye willow, less the tree! (3)
1 Crustacean violin player? (7,4)
14 Carroll’s sky flyer used as drinks holder (3,4)
16 Prevent from passing lbw at hockey? Ridiculous! (5,3,3)
10 Shuttle, 13 Ski, 16 Ali, 17 She.
Sound easy? It’s not called “Pit-your-wits” for nothing! The mixture of cryptic and picture clues, combined with Professor Rebus’ unique sense of humour, will keep you entertained for hours. These puzzles are
4 Reserve yurt in the attic? Bonkers! (11)
6 Tenet, loosely held, points to an alliance (7)
8 ‘Garbage in, garbage out’ era now in such a state (7)
Mike is always glad to hear from you at : mike.musings@outlook.com
If I was Prime Minister I would……………..?
(Part 6 of………?)
Following on from June’s complaint about condiments in sachets in pubs/restaurants, Gill from Jacksdale, has a similar gripe. “Am I the only one’, she asks “who finds that it takes ages, and is sometimes nigh on impossible, to open some packaging? The manufacturer kindly instructs us to simply peel-back the wrapping to gain access to the product. Sometimes I’m lucky and can manage it straight away, but more often than not I have to resort to using my teeth”.
Gill suggests that this problem can be quickly resolved, once and for all, by bringing together CEOs of the offending companies, lock them in a room with 50 samples of their non-peeling peelback product and tell them that without the use of scissors (or teeth), they will remain there until all packets have been opened.
Finally, on food, and this is personal as it involves my grandson Finlay. I happened to say the day after he had been out for a sumptuous meal with Grandma and other members of the family – I’d been invited, but it clashed with the football - that I had come home to enjoy some crackers and cheese for a light tea. Unfortunately, as there was no cheese in the fridge, I resorted to putting brown sauce onto the crackers, to add a bit of flavour. To say he was shocked is putting it mildly. “No cheese Grumps?” he wailed, sounding just like Wallace (of Gromit fame), “that’s not right!”
His youthful suggestion to right this wrong, was to make it illegal to have crackers in the house without
any cheese. Forgetting that his grandparents were, albeit briefly, offenders, he would have any such householders named, shamed and publicly humiliated.
Finally, for this month, in the first week of 2024, we endured Storm Henk as it brought misery to many, principally as a result of flooding. Whilst sympathetic to all those who suffered, and personally thankful that his property was safe, Bob, from Tibshelf, got most upset by another outcome of the storm.
The night that the wind strength was at its peak, coincided with recycling bins being left out to be collected the following morning. As a result, once day had dawned, it was no surprise to Bob to find that his village was worse than a rubbish dump with bottles, cans, cardboard and the like, strewn everywhere.
To limit the possibility of this happening again, Bob would make it mandatory that all bins put out for collection have their lids facing away from the prevailing wind. Spot checks would be carried out, and those not following this reasonable request, would be given a high-viz jacket, litter grabber, three bin bags and ordered to scour the streets and hedgerows collecting rubbish before dropping off the bags – full of course – at the appropriate depot. Anyone found cheating by e.g., simply emptying neighbours’ recycling bins, would be made to carry out the task again, but this time as part of a closely supervised naturist work party.
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Gardens
Gardener’s Calendar
Top Tip:
Your containers will be stuffed with roots by now, especially with all the rain, so it’s a good idea to keep them looking good by feeding them a little more, and keep up with the deadheading and watering – they’ll get dry very quickly.
If individual plants in the pot start to suffer, ditch them and replace with new space fillers in a bit of new compost.
Cut back faded perennials and take out straggly stems. You may find new growth already coming on behind and in any case the new growth when it does come through will look much brighter.
This is the last chance to cut back this year’s flowering philadelphus to ensure you’ll get flowers next year. Also cut back rambling roses, taking back about a third of stems once they’ve flowered, making room for next year’s growth.
If you’ve had a wildflower area this year, this is the time to mow it – plants will have scattered their seed ready for next year’s display.
Pinch out the growing tip of your tomatoes. You might get more flowers now but the fruit is unlikely to ripen before cold weather comes along - plus it means the plant puts more effort into existing trusses.
Beat the Summer Rain!
We all know how unpredictable a British summer can be and the feeling of disappointment when those long-planned events must be deferred due to bad weather or the spontaneous gettogethers turn into damp squibs.
There are two companies, however, who have a solution to solve those problems and make hosting possible, whatever the weather.
Cabin Master and Arctic Cabins create high-quality garden rooms and BBQ cabins, featuring exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, so that you can enjoy the outdoors in comfort - all year round.
The ultimate garden luxury, you can find a timber cabin which suits your lifestyle perfectly.
From a new office space, gym or dedicated hot-tub room, to a relaxing garden room or kitted-out BBQ cabin to enjoy your favourite food with friends and family, there are so many ways to enhance your everyday with these multi-functional garden features.
And it’s easier than ever to find out more at the duo’s openair show site in Stapleford, Nottingham - which is also the location of an exciting event coming this August.
Ambassador of Arctic Cabins and a proud owner of one of its designs, celebrity chef Aldo Zilli is coming to the Nottingham site to demonstrate how you can transform your outdoor get-togethers and everyday meals.
Sunday 4th August from 11am to 3pm, Aldo will cook his favourite BBQ recipes for guests to see and sample.
While you’re visiting the site, you can also explore the Hydropool Midlands showroom to find out more about its selfcleaning hot tubs and swim spas to add another element of relaxation to your garden.
SUMMERTIME SWALLOWS
It is said that ‘one swallow does not a summer make’, but of course these summertime visitors are one of our most evocative birds of the Peak District. There are two cousins of the swallow which are also stunning little birds but perhaps less widely known. These are the sand martin and the house martin, the former occurring in nesting colonies along rivers like the Derwent at Chatsworth. There they establish colonies of nests in holes made in soft, sandy riverbanks. With white undersides and dull, brown plumage on the back and upperparts, this is the least known of the swallow tribe. The house martin nests in constructions of clay and other material that cling to the undersides of house-eaves and structures such as bridges and the like. These little birds have brilliant white undersides and strikingly white rumps, with blue-black upperparts. They are very noticeable as they fly around houses and other buildings. The most obvious difference between swallows and martins is the long tail streamers so characteristic of the former.
Swallows are also closely associated with human habitation as they build their nests on rafters and beams or shelves in buildings, and so need easy access to fly in and out. The adults become very tolerant of people being nearby as they come to feed the increasingly demanding youngsters. Once the baby swallows leave the nest, with a diet made up entirely of flying insects, they are still dependent on their parents for a regular supply of food. Of course, this is becoming a problem since aerial
insect populations are generally plummeting and this is an issue for insect-feeders such as swallows, martins, and swifts during daytime, and bats in the evening and nighttime. Such a situation is now compounded by extreme weather and this year, long periods unseasonably cool and wet, which are bad conditions for insects like moths.
We can help all these iconic birds by supporting initiatives for more wildflower meadows to aid the flying insects. So, ideas like ‘no mow May’ are great but of course this also needs to include not mowing until late July so that butterflies, moths, and other insects can thrive and hatch as adults. The other key to success is in leaving areas a little more untidy in both gardens and the countryside, again so insects can survive. Being a member of the local Wildlife Trust is good in supporting nature reserves, and the National Trust also manages wonderful flower-rich meadows, for example, on their Longshaw Estate behind the Grouse Inn at Froggatt. Take a look there and you will see how groups of swallow and martins hawk the insects over the flowers.
If you have space, then allowing swallows to nest in outbuildings is essential for their future, or perhaps putting up house martin nestboxes under eaves etc also helps. You can even make a difference by allowing or creating areas of wildflower meadows and wildflower lawns. Indeed, every little helps and we can all do our bit to secure the future of these lovely birds with benefit to us too, as their presence tells us of summertime.
