Holmesfield Parish Council Newsletter - December 2022

HOLMESFIELD VILLAGE HALL HIRING RATES

Main Hall : £15.00 per Hour

Small Hall : £10.00 per Hour

Committee Room : £8.50 per Hour

Kitchen : £6.00 per Hour

A refundable bond of £20.00 is required at the time of booking to cover any breakages and damage. Parties running later than 9pm will be charged an additional £40.00 to cover clean up time. Residents living in the Parish of Holmesfield will receive a 10% discount for Private Functions.

Licensable activities such as music, dancing and particularly the sale of alcohol may require a Temporary Event Notice which must be applied for at the licensing section of North East Derbyshire District Council prior to the booking.

For more information and bookings please contact the Hall Letting Officer, Lucy Perry: 07752 478866 Email: holmesfieldvillagehall@outlook.com

INFORMATION ON LOCAL SERVICES

Derbyshire County Council: County Hall, Matlock. DE4 3AG Tel: 01629 580000 – Call Derbyshire: 0845 6058058

Monday – Friday 8.00am – 8.00pm, Saturday 9.30am – 4.00pm Education, Libraries, Rights of Way, Social Services, Gritting, Street Lighting, Pot Holes, Trading Standards.

North East Derbyshire District Council 2013 Mill Lane, Wingerworth, Chesterfield. S42 6NG. Tel: 01246 231111

Bulk Waste, Council Tax, Dog Wardens, Energy Advice, Environmental Health, Fly Tipping, Housing, Event Licensing, Pest Control, Planning, Recycling and Refuse, Street Cleaning Holmesfield Parish Council: Tel: 07758 460757

Bus Shelters, Dog Bins, Playground, Village Hall, Grit Bins.

CONTACTING DERBYSHIRE POLICE ONLINE

A team of helpful call handlers are here for the people of Derbyshire 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The links you can use to get in touch digitally are: Facebook: message www.facebook.com/derbyshireconstabulary Twitter: direct message www.twitter.com/derpolcontact Website: online forms and Live Chat by visiting www.derbyshire.police.uk

WELCOME TO HOLMESFIELD VILLAGE HALL

We are now OPEN as normal and offering an exciting programme of classes and events for all. Holmesfield Village Hall is a clean, spacious, well ventilated community venue with ample private parking, available to hire for your events and celebrations. Email for info: holmesfieldvillagehall@outlook.com Here is a taste of our events:

Mondays

Art Class : Develop your creative talents. Adult art class / painting class suitable for all. Contact Glen: 07710 600453. 10am start.

Rhythmix Dance : Inspire confidence, dance technique and performance skills. Dance and gymnastics classes for all children from pre-school to teens. Contact Jess & Hayley: 07725 908390. 4pm start. Zumba : Latin Inspired dance/fitness class. If you love to dance, enjoy moving to great music and want to keep fit then this class is for you - feel good fitness suitable for all. Contact Lucy: 0775 2478866 Email: zumba.dronfield@hotmail.co.uk. 7pm start.

Tuesdays

Rhythmix Dance : Inspire confidence, dance technique and performance skills. Dance and gymnastics classes for all children from pre-school to teens. Contact Jess & Hayley: 07725 908390. 4pm start. Keep Fit : Aerobics and body conditioning exercises suitable for all. Contact Geraldine: 07594 684676. 7.30pm start.

Wednesdays

Kilners Cakes : Creative cake decorating workshops, running on regular Wednesday evenings. Contact Andrea for details of the next workshop: 07961 454943.

Holmesfield Gardening Association : If you are a keen gardener and looking to join a club come along to our next meeting on the first Wednesday of the month. Contact Hilary 07748 846257. 7.30pm start.

Holmesfield Flower Arranging Club : New to flower arranging or keen to develop existing skills? Come along to our demonstrations and club workshops every third Wednesday of the month commencing in February. Contact 0771 8925514. 7.00pm start.

Thursdays

Rhythmix Dance : Inspire confidence, dance technique and performance skills. Dance and gymnastics classes for all children from pre-school to teens. Contact Jess & Hayley: 07725 908390. 4pm start.

Amanda Coupland Dog Training Classes : 6 week course running Oct/Nov. Contact: 07971 049175 or email: info@derbyshiredogservices.com

Keep Fit : Aerobics and body conditioning exercises suitable for all. Contact Geraldine: 07594 684676. 7.30pm start.

Fridays

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy/After School Club : Drama Classes for primary/secondary. Contact Nick or Helen: 07952 780823 Email: sheffield@helenogrady.co.uk. 4.30pm start.

Fused Glass Workshops : Artistic adult class in Fused Glass. Contact Jan Ward for Workshop dates & information: 07751 529378

Saturdays

Kilners Cakes : Creative cake decorating workshops, running on regular Saturday afternoons. Contact Andrea for details of the next workshop: 07961 454943.

VILLAGE HALL CALENDAR : DECEMBER 2022 534

1st December (Thurs.)

2nd December (Fri.)

3rd December (Sat.)

Rhythmix Dance Workshop – dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com

Main Hall 10.00am - 11.30am & 4.00pm - 8.00pm

Holmesfield Keep Fit (suitable for all) - contact Geraldine : 07594 684676 Main Hall 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Private Booking Main Hall

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy / After School Club

Primary & secondary age - contact: sheffield@helenogrady.co.uk

Main Hall 4.30pm - 6.00pm

Holmesfield Local Christmas Market - come and support over 30 local small businesses. Gorgeous festive gift ideas and have fun with family and friends. Main Hall 10.00am - 2.00pm

4th December (Sun.) Private Booking

Glen Wright Art Class (suitable for all) - contact: 07710 600453

Live Longer Live Stronger Age UK Chair Based Exercise - contact Kerry: 07923 672165

Small Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm

Main Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm

Main Hall 2.00pm - 3.00pm

Rhythmix Dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com Main Hall 4.00pm - 6.30pm

5th December (Mon.)

6th December (Tues.)

Zumba Latin Inspired Dance/Fitness class suitable for allcontact Lucy : 0775 2478866

Holmesfield Neighbourhood Watch Meetingcontact Sally Marples-Shaw : 07930 430044 / sallyannms@icloud.com

Penny Acres School

7th December (Wed.)

8th December (Thurs.)

9th December (Fri.)

Main Hall 7.00pm - 8.00pm

Committee Room 8.00pm - 9.00pm

Main Hall 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Rhythmix Dance Workshop – dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com Main Hall 4.00pm - 8.30pm

Penny Acres School

Main Hall 8.30am - 3.15pm

Holmesfield Gardening Association Pie & Pea Supper –contact Hilary Olsen : 07748 846257 Main Hall 7.30pm - 9.30pm

Rhythmix Dance Workshop – dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com

Main Hall 10.00am - 11.30am & 4.00pm - 8.00pm

Holmesfield Keep Fit (suitable for all) - contact Geraldine : 07594 684676 Main Hall 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Fused Glass Workshop – Creative Adult Class in Fused Glasscontact Jan Ward : 07751 529378 Small Hall 9.00am - 12.00pm

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy / After School Club

Primary & secondary age - contact: sheffield@helenogrady.co.uk

10th December (Sat.) Private Booking

Main Hall 4.00pm - 6.00pm

11th December (Sun.) Private Booking Small Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm

12th December (Mon.)

Glen Wright Art Class (suitable for all) - contact: 07710 600453 Main Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm

Live Longer Live Stronger Age UK Chair Based Exercise - contact Kerry: 07923 672165

Main Hall 2.00pm - 3.00pm

Rhythmix Dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com Main Hall 4.00pm - 6.30pm

13th December (Tues.) Penny Acres School Main Hall 1.30pm - 3.30pm

14th December (Wed.)

15th December (Thurs.)

16th December (Fri.)

Holmesfield Parish Council Meeting Committee Room From 7.30pm Kilner Cakes – Cake decorating workshop - contact Andrea: 07961 454943 Main Hall 6.30pm - 8.30pm

Rhythmix Dance Workshop – dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com

Main Hall 10.00am - 11.30am & 4.00pm - 8.00pm

Holmesfield Keep Fit (suitable for all) - contact Geraldine : 07594 684676 Main Hall 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Private Booking Main Hall Crime prevention drop in session with Dronfield SNT (police) Committee Room 1.00pm - 3.00pm Helen O’Grady Drama Academy / After School Club

Primary & secondary age - contact: sheffield@helenogrady.co.uk Main Hall 4.30pm - 6.00pm

17th December (Sat.) Kilner Cakes – Cake decorating workshop - contact Andrea: 07961 454943 Main Hall 2.00pm - 4.00pm

18th December (Sun.)

19th December (Mon.)

Private Booking Small Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm Private Booking Main Hall

Glen Wright Art Class (suitable for all) - contact: 07710 600453 Main Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm

Live Longer Live Stronger Age UK Chair Based Exercise - contact Kerry: 07923 672165

Main Hall 2.00pm - 3.00pm

Rhythmix Dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com Main Hall 4.00pm - 6.30pm

Penny Acres School Main Hall 1.30pm - 3.30pm

20th December (Tues.)

Rhythmix Dance Workshop – dance classes for children www.rhythmixdancestudio.com Main Hall 4.00pm - 8.30pm

22nd December (Thurs.) Holmesfield Keep Fit (suitable for all) - contact Geraldine : 07594 684676 Main Hall 7.30pm - 8.30pm

23rd December (Fri.) Private Booking Main Hall

29th December (Thurs.) Private Booking Main Hall

Holmesfield Village Hall would like to wish all hirers and visitors a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Now taking Bookings for 2023 : holmesfieldvillagehall@outlook.com

JANUARY NEWSLETTER

All copy for the January Newsletter must be received by 18th December to ensure inclusion in the magazine.

Holmesfield Parish Council welcomes the submission of articles pertinent to Holmesfield by residents for publication in the Parish Newsletter. Any thoughts and opinions are those of the individual(s) and may not necessarily be shared or endorsed by Holmesfield Parish Council. Any submissions must include full name and contact details before publication can be considered by the editor.

Please send your articles typed via email if possible. This is especially important for images you wish to include.

Please email any articles to: Holmesfield-newsletter@hotmail.com

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

The next meeting of the Parish Council will take place on Wednesday 14th December from 7.30pm in the Committee Room at Holmesfield Village Hall on Vicarage Close. All are welcome to attend.

HOLMESFIELD NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

A Neighbourhood Watch meeting will be held on Monday 5th December, 8pm to 9pm in Holmesfield Village Hall. Everyone welcome!

Please contact Sally Marples-Shaw if you have any questions: Tel: 07930 430044 – Email: sallyannms@icloud.com

DRONFIELD SNT CRIME PREVENTION ADVICE

Dronfield SNT will be hosting an informal drop-in event to showcase some crime prevention gadgets and information which will be free hand outs.

Friday 16th December: 1.00pm – 3.00pm at Holmesfield Village Hall

ALL DOG OWNERS

Dog fouling issues are the worst they have ever been in Holmesfield. Most people take poo bags out with then and remove it, but others give all dog owners a bad name by leaving it. The irresponsible ones do not use poo bags, they go out under the cover of darkness and think picking it up does not apply to them. Some go out in broad daylight and leave a mess on footpaths used by the children on their way to school.

North East Derbyshire District Council have put Public Space Protection Orders on all play areas within the District which prohibits the entry of dogs to the village playground.

PLANNING MATTERS

Applications Received from North East Derbyshire District Council:

22/00477/FL : Mr. D. Hinchliffe – Little Orchard, Horsleygate Lane, Holmesfield – Conversion and extension of stable building to form single dwelling on land adjacent (affecting a Public Right of Way) (Amended Plans). COMMENT To object to the conversion of an agricultural building to residential usage in the greenbelt. 22/00915/TPO : Mr. S. Lythgoe – Brookside Farm Mill Lane Millthorpe Holmesfield – Application to carry out works to Sycamores T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 T6 and T7 covered by NEDDC TPO area 67 G1/G2. NO COMMENT

22/00931/FL : Mr. Shepley – Woodthorpe Hall Cottage Fanshaw Gate Lane Holmesfield - S73 application to vary condition 2 (approved plans) on 20/01202/ FL (affecting the setting of a Listed Building/Conservation Area. NO COMMENT

22/00996/FL : Mr. N. Horsley – Springwood Farm Cowley Lane Holmesfield –Retrospective planning application for new farm access and track (affecting a public Right of Way). NO COMMENT

22/01015/FLH : Mr. & Mrs. Oates – Grange Farm, Cowley Lane, Holmesfield –Retrospective application for the construction of retaining rear wall (affecting setting of a listed building. NO COMMENT 22/01027/CUPDMB : Mrs K. Woods – Gooseberry Farm, Holmesfield –Notification of prior approval for change of use of agricultural barn to dwelling. COMMENT

To object to the conversion of an agricultural building to residential usage in the greenbelt. 22/01083/FL : Mr. J. Brownhill – Deerbrooks Lodge, Horsleygate Lane, Holmesfield – Construction of detached garage. NO COMMENT Determinations Made by North East Derbyshire District Council:

22/00570/FL : Mrs. Meggitt & Mrs. Hickman – Green Acres Farm, Moorwood Lane, Owler Bar – Change of use of land for residential use to allow for the siting of an ancillary caravan. GRANTED

Public Inquiry Against Refusal to Grant Retrospective Planning Permission

21/00020/EN_OD : Planning Inquiry Appeal against the erection of 2 buildings at Brindwood House, Millthorpe Lane, Holmesfield – Reconvening 1 and 2 December 2022 10.00am at the Council Offices, Mill Lane, Chesterfield S42 6NG

21/00020/EN_COU : Planning Inquiry Appeal against change of use of buildings to a dwelling at Brindwood House, Millthorpe Lane, Holmesfield - Reconvening 1 and 2 December 2022 10.00am at the Council Offices, Mill Lane, Chesterfield S42 6NG

POLICE REPORT TO PARISH COUNCIL

Three members of the Dronfield SNT attended the meeting. During October there were four reported crimes including one theft, one public order and two vehicle crimes. A number of the incidents are linked but have to be logged separately.

There is a lot of ongoing work with regard to off road motorcycles and work is taking place in partnership with the South Yorkshire force to combat this nuisance. Requests have been made to Derbyshire County Council for stiles to be put on the entrance to woodland to prevent access. Speed checks are taking place outside Penny Acres School.

The Police are attending a wide number of community events and will attend people’s homes to carry out free security visits and give advice on safety. The Dronfield SNT can be reached by ringing 101.

The Derbyshire Fire Service also carry out advice on fire safety and install smoke alarms, a safe and well visit can be requested by ringing 01246 223500 or email EastAreaAdmin@derbys-fire.gov.uk

Finally the Knife Bee is currently touring the country, it is made up of knives, guns and machetes. It is scheduled to be in Dronfield on 11 December 2022.

THANK YOU TO THE NEWSLETTER EDITOR

The Parish Council wish to thank the editor for the standard of the newsletter and particularly for the front cover pictures and the Bygone articles.

POLICE ADVICE TO PROTECT FROM BURGLARY

Most burglars are opportunists – they are most likely to seek out the easiest option with minimum effort where they will get the most rewards. Your Safer Neighbourhood Team are urging you as our residents to take some time to assess your home security measures. Here are a few things you can do to feel safer and deter unwanted visitors;

• Leave a light on in more than one room, such as the lounge and bedroom. Remember to choose low-energy lamps.

• Use a timer switch to operate the lights as it starts to get dark.

• Change the times that the lights come on to create the illusion that someone is moving around inside the home.

• Consider the use of ‘smart’ technology to have different lights coming on in your house at different times.

• Consider the use of a fake TV which will simulate a Television being on.

• Make sure your front door is well lit and fully visible from the street. Also think about security lighting at the rear and side of your property.

• Keep shrubbery and hedges at the front pruned to below 1 metre to remove cover for a burglar to work unseen and allow visibility by neighbours.

• Consider having a good quality CCTV system and home alarm installed.

• Keep your curtains closed at night - if you are away, ask a neighbour to close them for you.

• Check existing lighting is in good working order and replace any faulty equipment.

• Remember to check batteries in torches and smoke alarms.

• Lock all windows and doors even when you are at home.

• Put the alarm on even when you go out and at night

• Don’t leave valuables items or car keys on view near your front door.

• Photograph your property and register it free of charge at www.immobilise.com

• Consider the use of smartwater or UV pens to mark property

We will be sending out a series of newsletters, Derbyshire Alert messages and Social Media posts, offering crime prevention advice, property marking events and home visits (for property marking). We as a local team are more than happy to come and do a home crime prevention assessment.

If you want to get in touch with the team, email Dronfield.Neighbourhood@Derbyshire. police.uk

Useful links…

Sold Secure (products tested to reduce crime): www.soldsecure.com

Secured By Design (official police security initiative): www.securedbydesign.com

Master Locksmiths Association (find a locksmith): www.locksmiths.co.uk

Derbyshire County Council Trusted Trader: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/community/trustedtrader National Security Inspectorate (alarms): www.nsi.org.uk

SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspectorate Board): www.ssaib.org Immobilise (the National Property Register): www.immobilise.com

Any further information or questions, feel free to get in touch with me or contact the team.

DRONFIELD POLICE SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM

October crime figures:

In terms of the crime figures, the main point to mention is that three of the incidents reported in October are linked with vehicles. They all involved interference which includes; trying to steal a number plate and accessing a vehicle to attempt to take something of value from the rear seat. Dronfield SNT will be sending out crime prevention advice in respect of vehicles via social media and Derbyshire Alert. If anyone within the parish is seeking a crime prevention visit from us, please feel free to get in touch.

We are aware of the concerns about off road bikes in the woodlands and investigations remain ongoing to speak to the identified people. As a team we are liaising with South Yorkshire and rural crime team about the concerns in the woodland in Holmesfield as it believed the people responsible reside within South Yorkshire. Recently in the North East LPU which includes Clay Cross, Shirebrook, Clowne, Bolsover, Killamarsh and Eckington there has been an increase in burglaries, attempted burglaries and suspicious incidents. This is also the same for Dronfield, Coal Aston and surrounding areas.

PCSO 12853 Jonathan Flower, Dronfield SNT E-mail: Jonathan.flower@derbyshire.police.uk.

COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH VOLUNTEERS

Thank you to those that have come forward – more volunteers would be welcome. We are all aware of the issue of speeding traffic on the main routes through Holmesfield and Millthorpe and we really want to carry out more speed watches to make our parish a safer place for all residents.

If you could spare a couple of hours a week or a month, please contact Councillor Phil Reaney on 0114 2891167 and see how you could help with this important scheme.

CHRISTMAS IN HOLMESFIELD 2022

Dates For Your Diary...

Saturday 3rd December

Holmesfield Christmas Market at St. Swithin’s Church Hall, Holmesfield Village Hall, the Angel Inn and front car park, 10.00am to 2.00pm.

Sunday 18th December

Traditional carols in St. Swithin’s church. Service starts at 10.30am.

Followed by:

Santa’s Grotto at the George & Dragon. Booking is essential – full details and booking form on the next page. Tickets cost £6.50 per child which includes an appropriate gift.

Followed by:

Christmas carol singing in Holmesfield Millennium Garden from 5.00pm. Festive refreshments including mulled cider and mince pies. All welcome.

Saturday 24th December

Christingle Service at St Swithin’s Church - arrive from 5.30pm to assemble your Christingles and then service starts at 6.00pm. All welcome! Donations to the Children’s Society gratefully received.

Midnight communion service at St Swithin’s Church starts at 11.30pm. Please check out the St. Swithin’s Church, Holmesfield page on Facebook.

Sunday 25th December

Short family communion service starting at 10.30am. For the latest updates on all these events visit the Holmesfield Community Page on Facebook. Enjoy some fabulous fun with family and friends this Christmas in Holmesfield!

Child’s name:

SANTA’S HOLMESFIELD VISIT 2022

Due to popular demand, Santa will be returning to his grotto at the George & Dragon pub on Sunday, 18th December. To book a place to see Santa please complete the booking form below and return to:“Santa’s Little helper”

Santa’s Little Helper will contact you via text (mobile) to confirm what time Santa will be expected to see your child on Sunday 18th December. £6.50 per child - cheques to be made payable to Holmesfield Village Society.

HOLY ORDINARY

At the end of September, on a beautiful warm early autumn evening, I was pleased to find myself down at Woodthorpe Hall for the Shepleys’ annual cider making event. It was a quite extraordinary spectacle, with volunteers crunching, mashing and moving huge quantities of apples, and then watching the press squeezing all the glorious liquid into containers ready for fermenting. One of the potent ciders produced at Woodthorpe is an apple/pear combo called Holy Peardre, and someone hit on the idea that as a priest (or padre) was present, perhaps he could bless the beverage? So there in the dying light, surrounded by all ages, in the midst of glorious, chaotic cider making, I was privileged to call God’s blessing down on this year’s batch of Holy Peardre. I hope it’s not profane to suggest this is sort of what God does in the incarnation, the birth of Jesus Christ? Ok, I concede that cider is not mentioned in the infancy narratives of Matthew or Luke’s Gospels! However, the principle is that God sends his blessing down, sends himself down, into the midst of our glorious messiness. The holy blessing comes down into the ordinary and utterly transforms it. Into the poor and humble stable, God comes. He comes bringing kindness, justice, compassion, love into a selfish, competitive and brutal world. Christmas may have become excessively commercialised but we still know a Christmas story when we see it - it’s one that appeals to the heart, that sees good triumph over evil, that sees the humble lifted high (just look at the John Lewis Christmas ad). We still know deep down that the Christmas story, the account of the incarnation of God in Christ, of God coming into our glorious messiness, is the story in which our lives find their true meaning. Will you make room for the holy in your ordinary life this Christmas? In this season of kindness and giving, will you be generous towards God and one another? For as the Lord Jesus whom we celebrate once said, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over.” God’s many blessings be upon you and those you love this Christmas time.

Rev. Ian

FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS

Baptisms:

9th October – George Daniel Bohumil Booth

20th November – Tilly Teresa-Margaret Moore & Darcy Louise Moore

Funerals:

11th October – Marion Gazzard at Hutcliffe Wood Crematorium

17th October – Leopolda Rocca at St Swithin’s

1st November – Sheila Mary Hall at St Swithin’s and Hutcliffe Wood Crematorium

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH AT HOLMESFIELD CHURCH

Don’t spend Christmas day alone !

Robin and Jane Greetham are planning a Christmas Dinner in Holmesfield Church Hall on December 25th especially for those people who are likely to be on their own on Christmas day. There is no charge.

If you would like to be there, please phone Robin & Jane on 01246 412767 so that they know how many they are catering for.

HOLMESFIELD FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB

Holmesfield Flower Arranging Club are not meeting in December or January and are planning to start up again in February.

The committee are meeting in December to plan the programme for next year.

For further details of the club, please contact Diane Sheldon – Email: Diane.sheldon1@btinternet.com

Need some support this Winter ?

We know this winter will be difficult for many of us –The Trustees of the Penny Acres in Need want to help .

Now anyone can apply if they need support by contacting Mrs Geraldine Austen on 0114 2890686 if they live in the village.

The trusts were formed due to donations specifically meant to benefit village people and are not means tested.

So if you are a family or a single person, please don’t hesitate to apply and we will do our best to help.

CHRISTINGLE SERVICE

Many people have told me how much they love the special Christingle service held each year in St. Swithin’s church at 6pm on Christmas Eve. Arrive at 5.30pm to collect your Christingles.

As well as being a magical occasion it helps to raise funds for the important work of the Children’s Society. This really is a big village occasion, and we could do with help from people in the village to make sure it all runs smoothly on the night.

If this is something you can support us with please do get in touch with me. Thank you. Rev. Ian.

HOLMESFIELD GARDENING ASSOCIATION

Every year in November the Holmesfield Gardening Association hold their annual Pie and Pea supper. The committee and members work hard to put it on and everyone – members, friends and family are invited. The pie and pud from Delilicious were of course delicious! The ticket price included the entertainment by Croft and Smith who gave us an array of songs with gardening themes . Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves but perhaps a little too much as the noise level rose to the point where it became very hard to hear our entertainers which is not the usual way we show our appreciation. Thanks are due to Robin, Hilary, the ‘raffle ladies’ and everyone who helped to put out the table and chairs. Finally, special thanks to Sylvia who took the place of George who very sadly recently passed away.

On Wednesday 7th December our speaker will be Hilary Hudson speaking on the subject of ‘The Adventurous Gardener ‘. As we lay plans and choose plants for next year we hope that Hilary will inspire us.

On Wednesday 4th January we will have an horticultural quiz with quizmaster Peter Carterton to get our brains working for the new gardening season.

As ever all our events in the winter months take place in Holmesfield Village Hall and begin at 7.30 pm. Any enquires can be made to our Events and Social Secretary, Hilary Olsen on 0114 2890927.

I shall be retiring from my post as Gardening Association Correspondent for the Parish Magazine in February (job description: reporting what has happened what is to come and relevant information). If any Gardening Association Members would be interested in taking on the role I am happy to discuss on 0114 2890003.

Frances Webb

GLOW! : HOLMESFIELD YOUTH CLUB

What a month we’ve had! We celebrated a whole year of meeting by throwing a glow-inthe-dark party that was very well attended by local young people. Extreme Wheels have come back to support our work until Christmas bringing slack lines and laser quest so far. Thanks to those who answered the call and dropped off buttons to use in a craft activity – perhaps you’ll see what we did with them at the Christmas Market?! Talking of which, Glow! young people are hosting a stall in the Village Hall at the next market on 3rd December. We’re raising funds for a new air hockey table and a new table top football – those that were donated when we set up last year have been thoroughly enjoyed and are needing replacement so come along and see what we have to offer! Glow! youth club is a joint enterprise between the church and the community and is open to all local young people in school years 7-13 on Monday nights 6.30 – 8.30pm in St Swithin’s Church Hall. Further info from Sarah Webb on 07929 582233

RELIEF IN NEED AND PENNY ACRES TRUSTS

Residents are reminded that funds are available from these ancient trusts for people over the age of 60 living in Holmesfield who may experience difficulty in paying for fuel during the winter months. Anyone who is eligible should write to the Clerk to the Trustees, Mrs Geraldine Austen at Greenways, Main Road, Holmesfield, Dronfield. S18 7WB (Tel: 0114 289 0686). for more details. All applications are treated in strict confidence. The Trustees are also able to make ‘one-off’ grants for unforeseen capital expenses such as (for example) the payment required by the District Council to remove old goods. If you are faced with such a bill contact Mrs Austen and tell her about it. The Trustees want to help anyone who qualifies, but cannot if they do not know who would like help!

REPORTING HGVS FLOUTING WEIGHT LIMIT

A reminder that vehicles flouting the weight restrictions through the Parish can now be reported as traffic incidents on the Derbyshire Constabulary website: www.derbyshire.police.uk/ro/report/rti/rti-b/report-a-road-traffic-incident/

HOLMESFIELD VILLAGE SOCIETY

Hi All - We hope that you are all well and have had a good November. We can’t believe where this year has gone – it has absolutely flown by! It’s been a busy first year for the “new” Holmesfield Village Society. We have had great fun organising events such as our initial movie afternoon ‘The Polar Express’, the Village Christmas Tree and lights, Santa’s Grotto and Carols around the tree, the amazing Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at the Village Hall, along with ‘Hotel Transylvania’ – our Halloween movie for the children (and adults!) – followed by the fabulous Holmesfield Pumpkin Trail in October. It really has been a year full of fun!

The whole of the Holmesfield Village Society team (and team support) have enjoyed every minute of it – the smiles and the positive feedback have made our efforts worthwhile. The support for these events from our community has been amazing, it’s great to see so many faces, some familiar, some new to the local events. We hope that at future events we meet even more people from the Parish.

Whether it is the Holmesfield Village Society, The Local Market Team or the Holmesfield Support Group, all our volunteers work so hard to make local events enjoyable and fun for us all. Beyond these groups, there are many other talented and generous people whose commitment and hard work make our village social life what it is. Holmesfield really is a great place to live!

So, Christmas 2022 is just around the corner and we have some lovely things to look forward to in December. By the time you read this we will have put up the village Christmas tree in the Millennium Garden (Big thanks to Melissa & Richard for kindly providing the power for the lights again!). Santa will be back in his Grotto at the George & Dragon on the Sunday 18th December – many thanks to the wonderful Debbie Blagden for all her help in making sure that Santa and his Elves are all organised, Jeni at the George & Dragon for allowing Santa to use the snug as his Grotto and also to the Village Society team for helping Santa. This lovely afternoon will be followed by Christmas Carols around the Christmas tree in the Millennium Garden with the amazing Barry Fisher to help us sing along. The Village Society team will be offering mince pies and mulled wine, while Woodthorpe Hall will be offering their wonderful mulled cider. This is always such a lovely way to kick start the week before Christmas, so please come along and join us. After this, the Village Society will be taking a few days off to enjoy Christmas and New Year with their families and friends. We will be back in January with our plans for 2023 which promises to be another exciting year – watch this space for more details and dates! We have so many people to thank for this year’s activities, not least the generous people and businesses of Holmesfield who have donated time and money, bought tickets for events, participated in activities and given us support. We extend a massive thank you to you all. Wishing you all a Christmas filled with love and happiness and a very Happy and Healthy 2023. Big Love – Helen, Alison, Elaine and Nick from The Holmesfield Village Society.

PS For all the latest info, keep an eye on our facebook page at: www. facebook.com/groups/holmesfield

HOLMESFIELD CHURCH WALKING GROUP

HOLMESFIELD WALK

On Wednesday 7th December at 10.00am Robin Greetham will lead a walk starting from the Angel Inn (S18 7WT). We will walk to Penny Acres school where the headmaster will give us a few minutes talk on the school. We will then walk through the fields to Cartledge Hall where the owner – Mr. Ashley Turner – will give us a few minutes talk on the history of the hall. We will then proceed through the fields to Cowley and on to the Riding School where the owner – Mrs. Val Oglesby – will spend a few minutes talking about the school. Then onwards to the playground and past the memorial to Princess Diana. Our last stop is Tom Pearson & Sons’ joinery shop where the current owner – Mr. David Pearson – will give a brief talk on the business. We will then go up the hill back to the Angel Inn.

The walk is approximately 4 miles long but a short cut is available. If you would like to come just turn up on the day. The cost of the walks is £4 and the proceeds will go to Holmesfield Church. Please phone Robin on 01246 412767 if you have any queries.

DRONFIELD TRAINS - NEW TIMETABLE

A revised Winter timetable for Dronfield railway station takes effect from 11th December 2022. Although it is largely the same hourly service, there have been minor adjustments – as always, please check online before you travel. We hope to include the updated timetable next month (supplied by Friends of Dronfield Station). The new timetable is available below www.northernrailway.co.uk/sites/default/files/templates/N33/2022-12-11to-2023-05-20-1668081192.pdf

Meanwhile, travellers from Dore & Totley will able to enjoy Northern Rail trains on a regular pattern: 21 minutes past the hour departures for Hope Valley stations and Manchester, and 50-58 minutes past the hour (there are minor variations) for departures to Sheffield. Again, please check online before you travel.

HOLMESFIELD VILLAGE HALL CAR PARK

A large number of vehicles not connected with Village Hall bookings are now using the car park on a daily basis. This is now preventing users of the hall from accessing the car park. The village hall car park is private property and unless you are using the building, parking is not permitted.

Parking on private land without permission may invalidate your motor vehicle insurance. Currently the Parish Council will be placing notices on offending vehicles, but if the situation continues then other methods including locking of the car park or clamping offending vehicles will be considered.

HOLMESFIELD PENNY ACRES SCHOOL

Dear friends of Penny Acres Primary School, Well, it’s been another busy few weeks at Penny Acres Primary School!

As a school, we continue to invest in the Wider Opportunities Music Partnership with all of our Key Stage Two children currently learning to play either the trumpet or trombone. If you pass by on a Friday morning, be sure to listen out for them!

Earlier in the term our Infant children visited Doncaster Museum as part of their ‘Wonderful World Of Toys’ topic and more recently enjoyed a fabulous day out at Tamworth Snowdome enjoying the Winter Wonderland as part of this term’s topic. Sledging, snowballs and Santa in November – we now have some very excited children!

As part of their World War Two topic, our Junior children ventured up to Eden Camp Museum where they got to experience some of the sights and sounds of the war. A very humbling and informative day was had by all which in turn developed a much deeper respect for our remembrance day activities and moments of reflection.

In other news, our wonderful PTFA continue to raise much needed funds for school via their film nights. It really was a ‘spooktacular’ event thanks to the spooky films and snacks. My sincere thanks to the band of volunteers who helped to make the evening such a success.

As part of our continued drive to ensure that we develop tolerance and respect amongst our children, all children took part in a Diwali day, during which the children learnt about and experienced the Diwali Festival of Light. A superb event that was enjoyed by all. We now have the incredibly busy run up to Christmas with other visits planned, our annual nativity and other PTFA events. We hope to see many of you there. Until then, we remain a very open school at the heart of the community. If you have something you feel is worth sharing with school, please do get in touch on 0114 2890330

Kindest thoughts and prayers, Mr Ratcliffe – Executive Headteacher. Federation of Penny Acres and Wigley Primary Schools. Penny Acres: 0114 2890330

HOLMESFIELD PENNY ACRES SCHOOL LOTTERY

A very excited class of children were involved in creating the draw electronically with a computer number generator for the month of November.

We are pleased to announce the winners as follows:November 2022

1st prize No. 38 Val Wheat £51.30 2nd prize No. 60 Mrs Smith £11.40

Penny Acres School were also awarded £51.30.

Thank you to all the parents, family members, neighbours and local residents for your continued support especially during the past couple of years.

You can join the lottery at any time only £1 per number per month so please feel free if you would like to join contact either Penny Acres School Office or Samantha Copley by emailing samcopley@me.com or phone: 0780 3128729

3rd HOLMESFIELD SCOUT GROUP

Scouts and Explorers: Meet Tuesday nights at the usual times. Beavers and Cubs: Meet Wednesday nights at the usual times.

Holiday Dates: Scouts and Explores with close for Christmas on Tuesday 13th December and recommence on 10th January.

Beavers and Cubs will close for Christmas on Wednesday 14th December and recommence on 11th January.

Please note that all four sections have a waiting list. If you have children you would like to join the group, please get their names on our waiting lists as soon as possible – don’t wait until they are the right age, to avoid disappointment. Please contact Richard Wilkinson on 01246 412576, or email : thirdholmesfieldscoutgroup@hotmail.co.uk for further information.

OCTOBER 2022 WEATHER

October is the middle of the three months of autumn and it was a little warmer than usual this year. The average temperature recorded by my weather station was 10.9°C which is three quarters of a degree warmer than my average for the month. The highest temperature was recorded on the 18th at 16.6°C and the lowest was 4.1°C on the 9th. I recorded 94 hours of bright sunshine over the whole month. The fairly small amount of sunshine probably explains why I did not feel that it was a particularly warm month.

Another reason for October not feeling unusually warm was probably the amount of rain that fell. I recorded 123mm (about 5 inches) which is 50% more than usual. Weston Park Weather Station actually recorded even more rain with 145mm falling. It is unusual for Weston Park to have more rain than Holmesfield. We had two days – the 20th and the 31st – when almost an inch of rain fell. At about 2pm on the 30th we had a short sharp shower of rain and I recorded the rate as 225mm per hour, about 9 inches per hour. That is the highest rate of rainfall that I have recorded over the last 20 years. Fortunately, it did not last for very long.

October is of course the 10th month of our year but it sounds as though it should be the eighth month as ‘octo’ means eight in both Greek and Roman. However, the Roman year started in March and they only had 10 months. It seems that they did not give the days of winter a name. Perhaps that was a good idea as many of us would be happy to lose January and February.

Brian Brown

PREPARING FOR WINTER

Derbyshire County Council would like to hear from residents and farmers willing to help keep their communities safe when bad weather hits to supplement work carried out by their gritting teams.

Town and parish councils, schools and voluntary community groups help to clear snow in their areas as part of its Snow Warden Scheme. Each group is given a free delivery of up to a tonne of bagged grit and given training and advice on how to clear snow and ice safely.

Snow wardens get involved in:

• clearing snow and ice from their community’s pavements

• reporting local weather conditions through our website

• co-ordinating volunteers to clear snow and distribute grit

• reporting empty grit bins

Farmers and others with ploughing or gritting equipment are also being asked to work as contractors to help keep their local roads on the move from now until next April. Anyone taken on as a contractor will get £250 for signing up plus get extra payments for call outs.

Farmers and contractors need to:

• provide their own equipment

• be available to work 7am to 7pm, Monday to Sunday (extra help may be requested if conditions are particularly severe)

• arrange appropriate insurance

• be able to respond to a call out within 90 minutes

The Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Kewal Singh Athwal, said: “With the warm weather we have enjoyed this summer it seems strange to be thinking of snow, but we need to get ready for whatever the winter will bring. I’d urge any local council or community group to have a think about helping their local community by clearing pavements when it snows. And for any farmers who have the right equipment to help with clearing snow on our rural roads to get in touch. We do appreciate all the help we get when bad weather hits and would like to thank everyone in advance for what they do for their communities.”

Town and parish councils, schools and other community groups interested in volunteering can sign up by email snow@derbyshire.gov.uk or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/transport-roads/roads-traffic/road-maintenance/snow-info/ tackling-snow/winter-service/snow-wardens.aspx

Find out more about the farmers and contractors scheme: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/transport-roads/roads-traffic/road-maintenance/snow-info/ tackling-snow/farmers-contractors/farmers-and-contractors.aspx

HOLMESFIELD CRICKET CLUB

The club received an early Christmas present with the arrival of the new clubhouse. The installation will be completed for the beginning of the 2023 season. Thanks to everyone who has helped with both the raising of the funds and the installation of the building.

Merry Christmas to everyone.

Hello all students under 25 who live in Holmesfield or whose parents do... It’s time to study again ! Do you need equipment or any other assistance related to your studies ?

Did you know you can apply to the Holmesfield Educational Trust by contacting the Secretary – Mrs Geraldine Austen on 0114 2890686 even if you have made a previous application?

The Trust is not means tested and was specifically designed to meet the educational needs of everyone under 25 who lives in the village or whose parents do. If you think you fit the description please apply.

FRIENDS OF GILLFIELD WOOD

Monday 5th December: Christmas Past and Present: Join us at Totley Library for an illustrated talk by Professor Ian Rotherham about the history, wildlife and mythology of Christmas including the associated pagan celebrations of the winter solstice. There will be a £1 charge for members, £3 for non-members. Festive fare including mulled wine and mince pies will be available as well as teas and coffees.

Please reserve a place as numbers will be limited by emailing the secretary at: fogwsecretary@gmail.com

Practical Conservation

Mornings.

Wednesdays 14th December. We meet either at the Baslow Road bus terminus, the Scout Hut on Aldam Road, Totley or at the end of Totley Hall Lane. The work mornings are advertised on posters around Totley, in the local press and nearer the date are emailed out. Due to Covid precautions there are no drinks or biscuits provided so we recommend you bring along your own refreshments.

We may also arrange the occasional mid-week Conservation Morning where we will not have the help of a Council Ranger but will concentrate on tasks we can do independently. Here we are likely to meet at the Baslow Road bus terminus at 10.00am. Bring spade/shovel and rake if you have them/one. And gloves and flask. We will probably finish around 11.30 but feel free to come and go to suit. www.friendsofgillfieldwood.com

For any clarification, please contact Paul Hancock via email: paulhancock1954@gmail.com

Please check out and ‘like’ the Facebook page for “Friends of Gillfield Wood” There is also a Twitter feed: @GillfieldWood - please take a look !

MOBILE LIBRARY

Derbyshire County Council’s mobile library service operates on a 4-weekly cycle. The mobile library will be at 6 Park Rise, Holmesfield between 10.25am and 10.50am on Monday 23rd January and 20th February. Note there is no appearance in December! The staff look forward to welcoming you on board to browse the stock and access their services. The mobile libraries have a lift if you use a wheelchair or have mobility problems. For further information call 01629 533444, or email: ask.library@derbyshire.gov.uk

HOLMESFIELD EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

Residents are reminded that this ancient village charity, dating back to the early 18th Century, has funds available to make grants to persons under 25 years old who are or whose parents are normally resident in the village. Grants may be made for or towards outfits, clothing, tools (including computers) instruments or books. Grants may be made for many other items or purposes which assist in promoting ‘education’ in its broad sense. Please note that grants will not be given if purchases have already been made. Meetings are held on the last Wednesday in January, April, July and October.

For further information, those who may be eligible should contact the Clerk to the Charity, Mrs Geraldine Austen at Greenways, Main Road, Holmesfield, Dronfield. S18 7WB (Tel: 0114 289 0686).

HOLMESFIELD PLAYGROUND:

PUBLIC SPACE PROTECTION ORDER

Signs have been put on each entrance to the Play Ground reminding dog owners that North East Derbyshire District Council have put Public Space Protection Orders on all play areas within the District, this prohibits the entry of dogs to the Play Ground. Please adhere to this for the well-being of children using this facility.

USE OF PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY

There have been a number of complaints over the misuse of footpaths in the Parish by cyclists and horse riders. The designation of each right of way is integral to who can use:

• Footpaths: for walking, running, mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs

• Bridleways: for walking, horse riding, bicycles, mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs

• Restricted byways: for any transport without a motor and mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs

• Byways open to all traffic: for any kind of transport, including cars (but they’re mainly used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders).

CARAVANS AT OWLER BAR

The issue of caravans in fields at Owler Bar is still of major concern; it is with some disappointment that the Parish Council are unable to get any action or even a reasonable update on the situation. They have now been contacting the Peak District National Park Authority on this issue since August 2019.

The Peak District National Park Authority can be contacted direct by residents by writing to Peak District National Park Authority, Aldern House, Baslow Road, Bakewell DE45 1AE; by telephone: 01629 816 200; or by email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk

UNDERSTANDING ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR (ASB)

ST. SWITHIN’S CHURCH

All are welcome to come to our Sunday services at 10.30am. The type of services varies each week - those with children might find the fourth Sunday family service suits them best, but everyone is welcome at all services. Visit our website – www.holmesfieldchurch.org.uk – to find out about events and activities, and for the latest news join our Facebook public group. Online services and programmes for the parish are available at www.youtube.com/dwhparish

We would be delighted if you would like to hold your wedding or christening service at St. Swithin’s. Please contact the Parish Office on the number below in the first instance. You do not have to be christened or live in the parish to be married at St. Swithin’s Church. For enquiries about funerals, burial of ashes, or anything else related to the churchyard please contact the vicar. St. Swithin’s Church Hall is the venue for many different community groups. It is an excellent, modern, well equipped hall with kitchen and meeting room, available to hire for your one off event or regular activity - please contact Jenny on the number below. St. Swithin’s Toddler Group is held on Thursday mornings, 10.00am to 11.30am. J-Cafe is held on the 2nd and 4th Fridays, 10.00am to 1.30pm. Our J-Cafe is proving very popular and we have just received a 5 star food hygiene rating! We look forward to welcoming people to the Holmesfield Local Market where J-Cafe will be serving refreshments. Please check out the St. Swithin’s Church, Holmesfield page on Facebook.

COWLEY MISSION AND THE VINE FELLOWSHIP

Our service commences at 10.30am each Sunday at Cowley Mission. Everyone is welcome to come and visit/join us. Dates for December are as follows:

4th Steve Richards (Communion)

11th Mark Cooke

18th Carol Service (from 3.00pm)

25th No Service (we reopen on 8th January 2023 when it will be Steve Richards.)

Until 10th December 2022.

HOLMESFIELD BUS TIMETABLE

CHESTERFIELD – BARLOW – HOLMESFIELD – DRONFIELD

HOLMESFIELD BUS TIMETABLE

DRONFIELD – HOLMESFIELD – BARLOW – CHESTERFIELD

Live

travel updates: The Stagecoach bus app shows live departures for your nearest bus stop and you can track the progress of your bus on a map. Service updates are available by following @StagecoachYrks on Twitter and any planned service changes are normally posted online at stagecoachbus.com.

HOLMESFIELD BYGONES

After last month’s special Bygones article for Remembrance Sunday we return to enjoy another image from the lens of W. “Harry” Hewitt of Dronfield from the early 1900s and this spectacular view of Cowley Bar. There is so much detail visible in the original large format glass plate negative which a commercial postcard could never reproduce and it is sobering to think (pun intended!) that almost everything in this photograph –from Jane Outram’s shop and the school room above it to the neat and tidy cottages –has been demolished except for the Rutland Arms which compliments our front cover image taken during the recent Great Fire of Dronfield.

Holmesfield Village Hall Available to Hire for Meetings and Functions

Main Hall

Small Hall