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NOVEMBER 2015
A community publication for Ilkeston and the surrounding districts including Kirk Hallam, Cotmanhay, Shipley View and West Hallam Visit our website: ilkestonlife.com
ILKESTON FIRM WINS INNOVATION AWARD Belfield Furnishings has won an award for ‘Best Innovation 2016’. Practical Caravan magazine honoured the Ilkeston based company with the award for a unique upholstery bedding design which brings practicality, comfort and good looks to small space living. Belfield Furnishings are a leading supplier to the leisure and holiday industries. Based in Ilkeston, they pride themselves on creating UK manufactured goods and employing over 1,200 employees. Head for research and development Nigel Singer said of the product created: “The DreamSleep bedding system removes the need for backrests in the caravan. This is unique, and allows us to use domestic mattress materials for the bed system, giving a luxury that no other model is doing.” The patented design was created for Bailey of Bristol, for their 2016 Pegasus model. The award winning system has secured Belfield over £1million of new business, which will help expand the company and create new jobs in the area. Jay Stevenson, Account manager for Bailey, who spearheaded the project, en-
The night of the new suede shoes
Lots of
YOUR LETTERS
Story in
Ilson Dialect by Jim Sumner
Lest we forget Remembrance poems
Treading the boards and flying above them
Cinema-going in my Ilkeston MORE MEMORIES FROM
Patricia Spencer
ILKESTON THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS
Ilkeston Theatre Company are soaring to spectacular new heights for their latest production. Work is already underway in the large marquee at Seven Oaks Inn, Lows Lane, Stanton-by-Dale, to put in a new stage complete with rigging which will enable several characters to actually fly across the stage. Regulars at the Seven Oaks will probably not be surprised to see the jovial landlord Ryan Pound don lipstick and high heels to play the part of Tiger Lily, leader of the Redskins. Sales director David Trueman (left) receiving the award at the Practical Caravan presentation dinner.
thused: “The project as a whole has been challenging, but the end result is fantastic. We are really happy with the DreamSleep system, and the award is the icing on the cake.” The latest Bailey Pegasus caravan launches this autumn and the new DreamSleep bedding system has been well received by customers and industry alike. Below: the caravan settees can quickly be converted into a comfortable bed using the DreamSleep system.
Based on the classic book by J M Barry, this version has many familiar characters and sees Peter Pan (played by Rachael Flewitt) and his companion Tinkerbell (Louise Bradley) transporting Wendy (newcomer Penny Courtney) and her brothers to a place where people cease to age. Here they meet the lost boys, Myrtle the mermaid (Jenni Walker), Tiger Lily and her friends. However, Peter is being pursued by the wicked Captain Hook (played with relish by Ben Mills), who is not as “armless” as he first appears. Fortunately for Peter, there is a hungry crocodile keen to turn Captain Hook into a light snack. Will Captain Hook succeed in his plans for Peter, or will the crocodile manage to disarm him? To find out you will have to come along to the large marquee, Seven Oaks Inn, Stantonby-Dale, Ilkeston DE7 4QU on one of the following dates. Friday 27th November, 7.30pm Saturday 28th November, 7.30pm Sunday 29th November, 4pm Friday 4th December ,7.30pm Saturday 5th December, 2.30pm Saturday 5th December, 7.30pm Tickets (now available at the Seven Oaks Inn) are £10 with concessions at £8.50. Group discounts are also available. For further information or to book tickets please contact: Box Office: 0115 932 3189. Email: enquiries@ilkestontheatrecompany.co.uk. Visit the website www.ilkestontheatrecompany.co.uk They are also on Facebook and Twitter. Ilkeston Theatre Company will also be holding a raffle on the show nights for ‘Canine Partners’ who train dogs to help transform
Paul Ensor (Smee) and Angie Jacks (Starkey) the lives of people living with disabilities. If you have ever fancied joining a theatre company, go along any Wednesday to the United Reformed Church Hall from 8pm until 10pm.
WIN FREE TICKETS FOR THE SHOW Would you like to go to the panto for free? Ilkeston Life has three pairs of tickets to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question— Where does Peter Pan live? a. Neverland b. Neversky c. Neversea Email your answer by midday Monday 23rd November 2015 to ilkestonlife@gmail.com or drop your answer in to the U Choose café, 1 Bath Street, in a sealed envelope marked Peter Pan Competition. Don’t forget to include your name and contact details. We will be in touch if you have won.
Print run of 10,000 copies distributed locally—outstanding coverage for advertisers
Cinema-going in my Ilkeston Reflecting community life in and around Ilkeston
Local
Independent Fresh Entertaining If you don’t get a copy through your letterbox, Ilkeston Life is available online and from various places including: U Choose Smoothie Bar, 1 Bath Street, Ilkeston; John’s News, 17 Bath Street, Ilkeston; Ilkeston Coffee Bean, 156 Bath Street, Ilkeston; Blinkinks, 48 South Street, Ilkeston; Patti House, The Old Chapel, South Street, Ilkeston Wayfarer, 307 Nottm Road, Ilkeston; Lobina’s, 338 Nottm Road, Ilkeston; Manna House Café, Queen Elizabeth Way, Kirk Hallam; Post Office, Ash Street, Cotmanhay; Linda’s Mini-Market, Cotmanhay Rd. New stockists welcome.
Editorial office: 1 Bath Street, Ilkeston Tel: 07539 808390 Editor: Robert Attewell ilkestonlife@gmail.com or robert@ilkestonlife.com Advertising Manager: Paul Opiah paul@ilkestonlife.com Distribution Manager and Webmaster: Adam Newton adam@ilkestonlife.com
© Copyright 2015 The material in Ilkeston Life is protected by copyright. If you wish to reproduce anything, please contact the editor. While every care is taken to be accurate, we are only human and mistakes do occur occasionally. If you are unhappy with any of the content in the paper, please contact the editor in the first place. We accept news and information from correspondents in good faith and cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies. We try not to include stories which may cause distress to anyone. If you have a view on any of the articles, please write and let us know. Your letters are always welcome, but we reserve the right to withhold or edit. Anonymous letters will only be printed in exceptional circumstances.
Deadline for adverts and editorial contributions: 15th of preceding month.
2 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
By Patricia Spencer One of my favourite pastimes has always been a visit to the cinema but it has changed a lot in my lifetime. From the age of five years old my mum used to take me, as a treat, to one of the local cinemas in Ilkeston; we had four in the town at that time. Those days we usually had to join a long queue to get in. In the cinema and theatres we always had to stand to listen to the National Anthem being played. Can you imagine anyone doing that now? That ended in the late 1960’s. The first of the purpose built cinemas to arrive in Ilkeston was the Scala in 1913. This is the Inside The Scala today. Photo: John Booth Photography only one now still in use as a cinema in the town. It stands in a prominent position on the Market Place and main street in Ilkeston and the ‘luxurious’ auditorium seated 1,199 with walls lined is a grade two listed building. It is believed with tapestry panels. to be the second oldest remaining purpose built cinema in the country incorporating I have been reliably informed that Mrs Flora features of Edwardian, classical and Art Rice used to play the piano at the Kings in Nouveau designs. It still has one of the old the days of the Silent Movies. Before talkies style 35mm film projectors, which I believe were even thought about the pianist provided is still used from time to time - although the atmosphere for the silent films. It must most of the films are played on digital now. have been very exciting to have the live muAfter having a makeover a few years ago by sic. the new owners it now seats 400 in the audi- In the 1950s when I first started going with torium and both single and double seats are mum they still had the usherettes in uniform available. In the winter the seats by the radi- including a hat and they carried torches to ators are always taken first. The upstairs show you to your seats and to shine on anyseating where I used to love to go for a treat one who was misbehaving in any way. They as a child has not been in use for many years. also had an interval between screenings One of the last films I saw there years ago in when the lights would go up and they would the sixties before it closed was Doris Day walk down the aisle selling ice creams from and James Garner in ‘Move Over Darling’. trays hung round their necks. As mum and I My husband and I have now started going went regularly we knew all the staff and again occasionally when there is a new film managers. The managers always looked realwe want to see. ly smart and wore a collar and tie, a suit and For many years this cinema has been behighly polished shoes- a bit different from lieved to be haunted. They say it was built the staff today in the multiplex cinemas in over a graveyard, although I believe they their casual attire of Tee shirts and jeans. moved all the occupants before building the I remember going to one of the cinemas after Scala. One of my going Christmas shopping and the manager friends was a let us put all our parcels in the office whilst painter and he we went in to watch the film. worked in the auditorium on his I was very excited, as in one of the parcels own many times. was my Christmas present. A beautiful doll He spoke of see- dressed as a bride. I loved her dearly and ing many ghosts kept her until I was seventeen when I passed there. But one in her on to my boyfriend’s sister. particular inThose days you didn’t just get one film you trigued him. would probably get a News reel - along with a cartoon and sometimes a change of film He was busy painting one day from afternoon to evening viewing. It was really good value for money. and felt a cold draught. Looking All the cinemas always did a Saturday afterup he saw the noon show for the children. I was never alfigure of a lady lowed to go on my own but listening to the Ghost lady on the stairs in Victorian dress tales from other friends that went I think the (Google image) going up the staff sometimes had a hard time with some stairs and he decided to follow her. of them. He particularly noticed her black boots as One of my friends went regularly to these she led the way into the auditorium. Once showings at the Ritz and some of her favourinside she began to reach up, to the side wall ites were The Three Stooges, Hopalong Casand he realised that she was putting out the sidy, Zorro and Old Mother Riley. There old gas lamps that would have been there would always be a cliff hanger at the end of when the cinema was first built. She then the main film so that you would want to go retraced her steps downstairs and disapback the following week. But from what she peared. tells me, very often it would be a different film altogether. The second cinema to be built in Ilkeston was the Kings Picture House in 1914 and She was always given a shilling to spend or was named after a visit to the town from five pence in today’s money. This bought her King George V earlier in the year. The Kings lunch, sweets and money left for the picstood at the higher end of Bath Street—the tures, which cost a tanner. These Saturday
afternoon showings were called the Tanner Rush. I remember when Gone With The Wind came to Ilkeston—it was shown at the Ritz and the photographs outside were fantastic. The queues to get in were massive. Even my dad went to see that one. I think it was shown in Cinamascope so that would be around 1954. Ten years later in 1964 the Kings disappeared from our lives when it was demolished. Later this area was to become part of the shopping precinct we have today. The last film to be shown before it was demolished was ‘The Thrill Of It All’ starring Doris Day. A cinema I knew absolutely nothing about until it was mentioned to me a few weeks ago was the Globe Theatre. This was built a year after the Kings in 1915 and stood near the bottom of Bath Street. Apparently, the Ilkeston Advertiser stated that visitors to the town would be irresistibly drawn to the building with a “magic dome”. However the magic of this cinema did not remain for very long and was demolished to make way for the Woolworth emporium in1923. More next month
A newspaper picture of the Kings displaying its last film before closure.
FREE COOKING COURSE
A free Basic Cooking Course is starting in Ilkeston on Tuesday 3rd November 2015. Participants will learn how to cook tasty meals on a budget, increase their confidence in the kitchen and understand the simple steps to cook a variety of recipes. The course runs for six 2-hour sessions over six weeks and is very hands on. It will be running in Ilkeston between 10am and 12 noon at Nottingham Road Methodist Church. All ingredients will be provided. Marion Farrell from Groundwork said, “The course is very practical and taught in an informal friendly manner. It is an opportunity to learn a few more skills and gain the enthusiasm and confidence to try new recipes.” To be eligible to take up a place on the course you need only to be an adult and a resident of Erewash. To book your place contact Marion Farrell at Groundwork on 07801 122494 or email mfarrell@groundwork.org.uk The course is funded by Erewash Clinical Commissioning Group in partnership with Groundwork.
RACE NIGHT
Grandfather’s Harvest at Stanley
Some photographs of the Grandfather’s Harvest event held at Grange Farm, Stanley village over the first weekend In October. There were ploughing competitions with entrants of all ages, steam engines, vintage cars and tractors and a show of harvest produce. Pictures by Roy Foulkes. There are more on our Facebook page .
TOYS ‘R’ OURS— they could be yours!
Members of Ilkeston Community Hospital League of Friends have a problem – but an interesting, testing predicament that can be resolved with the aid of local charitable agencies. League President Mike Perry was contacted by the Derbyshire Community Health Services (DCHS) Foundation Trust who asked him if he could dispose of ‘some toys’ that were available free of charge and which had come from the Walton hospital at Chesterfield following closure of the nursery. He was asked to go up there to inspect them. On arrival he was shown room after room filled with soft, cuddly toys, children’s furniture, including cots, building bricks, Wendy houses, swings, trampolines, slides and even an outdoor children’s climbing frame/castle unit. All are now safely stored in Ilkeston thanks
However, following on from previous joint projects, the Rotary Club of Ilkeston have agreed to join forces with the League to sort out the Aladdin’s Cave in the local mill. The League and Rotary have previously assisted the DCHS by providing a minor treatment room, the Val Jackson Scanner Unit upgrade and a conservatory attached to the Diagnostic Treatment Centre. Mike has also offered some of the goods to The Arena Church charitable section which assists the homeless and families in difficulties to set up home. “Christine, Christian, Lisa and her staff will be asked to collect some shortly,” said Mike. “The DCHS have asked that any proceeds raised be put back Some of the many donated toys to be sold off into hospital Trust funds or used to assist to friends of Rotary, Tim and Roy of Albany deserving charities. And this is our aim.” Mill who made storage space available. It is proposed to hold a full day’s sale in the But the problem, says,Mike, is “What are we hospital’s Charnos Hall in late November. If going to do with all the toys?” you want to make an offer for some of the Ilkeston Hospital has a number of locations racks of children’s desks, or tables, or baskets of toys – send an email to: for children undergoing treatment, or visiting with parents, such as the Minor Injuries mike.perry43@sky.com – for further information. Unit.
The Ilkeston Football Club Supporters Group are holding their annual Race Night event at the Dukeries on Cotmanhay Road this year. The group is devoted to raising funds for projects involving Ilkeston FC as well as building up a nest egg to safeguard football at the New Manor Ground for future generations of Ilkestonians. Monies raised from the Race Night will be going towards the payment for a much needed new public address system at the New Manor Ground. Entry to the event is free and fun for all the family, young and old, who are invited to come along and have a small flutter. Nine races will be shown in total including the Auction Race where lots of special prizes can be won. It takes place on Saturday December 5th with the first race being shown at 8pm. Early arrival is recommended to get a seat and table. Everyone is welcome!
CRAFT FAIR
A centenary Christmas fair is being held at Shipley Parish Hall, The Field, Shipley on Saturday 21st November, 1 till 4pm. Organised by Shipley WI, the fair will include quality hand made craft items, paintings, jewellery, Christmas decorations and gifts. Refreshments will also be on sale.
STOP, DROP AND ROLL
If your clothing catches fire on Bonfire Night, or any other time for that matter, remember the advice of the National Fire Protection Association: stop walking or running, drop to the ground and roll.
Smoothie Art Gallery and Café presents
A CHRISTMAS ART FAYRE at the Catholic Church Hall, Regent Street, Ilkeston Over 20 local artists displaying a wide selection of original paintings, prints and photographs for sale at reasonable prices
Ideal Christmas gifts! Entry Free Sunday 22nd November 2015 12.30 to 4.30pm
Ilkeston Life, November 2015
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Have your say Get in touch with your views— Email: ilkestonlife@gmail.com Post: The Editor, Ilkeston Life, 1 Bath Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8AH
Would you like the market to stay open longer? stream of customers throughout the day. I've started trading till 4 and I'm hoping that my example will filter through the market and other traders follow suit. I live in Ilkeston running a small business hand making and selling scented wax melts, incense, crystals, candle holders, etc., and I have found that Ilkeston Thursday market is proving to be a really good sales point. It would be great if we encourage other small I don't think there is an official end time but businesses to give the market a go too, espevans are not allowed on market till 3 o’clock, cially new and diverse stalls selling products so traders are packing up at half past two not found on the high street, but I think they ready for loading at 3 and then they're off. are put off by the early closing, especially if There aren't many folk around at that time they specialise in perishable produce. but I think that's a knock on from traders It would be nice to know if the public are in packing up early. Shoppers think they’re too agreement with this and if a later finish late for the market. would encourage them to visit the market I personally think if the town is aware that more. the market is open longer we'll get a steadier Joe Palmer, Ilkeston.
Hi, I was wondering if you could be of any help. I'm a trader on Ilkeston Market onThursdays and I think it's a shame that the market is packed up between 2.30 and 3 pm. I would like to see it open till later. I've got a few traders in agreement and the market officers are being extremely supportive but I'm finding it hard work to persuade most traders to stay open.
DONATIONS OF PLANTS REQUESTED
FOUND THE PAPER AMUSING AND INTERESTING
Hi. I work at Foxwood Academy in Bramcote which is a school for students with special needs. At Foxwood we are keen to involve our students in the local community. I take a group of 14-19 year old students to Hazlewood Care Home in Cotmanhay every Monday and Thursday afternoon where they are currently redeveloping an area of the garden which was very overgrown and neglected. We are also carrying out a range of groundwork maintenance jobs such as weeding, pruning, repairing and re-painting/staining garden furniture etc. We have purchased lots of plants and compost but wondered if any of your readers or local businesses would be able to donate any plants, shrubs or materials to help us with the project. Both the school and nursing home are continually fund raising for the extras so any help would be fantastic. If anyone can help or wishes to know more, please email me at jordan_bn@btopenworld.com Phone contact is 07824 878806, I can collect if needed, or donations can be left at Hazlewood Care Home in Cotmanhay. Many thanks. Kim Jordan.
Sir, I would like to thank you for the newspaper .We found it most interesting and amusing. I wish you the success it deserves. There were many interesting articles and Jim Sumner in dialect was particularly good. As an old Ilkestionan I remember buying off the market a single sheet newspaper called Billy’s Weekly Liar. Several people of my generation recollect it for the humour it contained. It was published up north and is on the internet. It may go down well in Ilkeston if extracts appeared? I still quote it 50 years later. Please let me know if I can help in any way as I am interested for your paper to survive Cllr JOHN FRUDD WRITES... and thrive. Dear Readers, Yours faithfully, I am John Frudd, Borough Councillor for R. Parkin, Dale Abbey. Kirk Hallam and Stanton by Dale Ward, and County Councillor for the Ilkeston South HUSBAND’S FATHER WAS County Division. MENTIONED IN PAPER I thought I would give people an insight into what I have, and what I intend to be involved Hi, I would just like to say how very interesting your newspaper is. We are very fortu- with in the near future. nate to know Mr David Potter who delivers I was pleased to play a part in the early stages my Kleeneeze products with a bright cheer- of bringing a youth club back to Kirk Hallam ful smile and now with the added bonus of once again. I am happy to say that it is now your paper. going from strength to strength and housed in the Kirk Hallam Social Club by the side of Imagine my husband’s surprise when in Bloods Pond, thanks to support from Big Kirk complete I have asked for the next one to take your first edition his father Mr Desmond Hallam. Garton was mentioned [in the Ilkeston place in Ilkeston South. Trade Directory of 1955-56 feature]. This I was pleased to help Welcome Hall, on St I usually arrange community ward walks in bought a wonderful welcome smile to my Johns Road, Ilkeston, with the complete refur- the summer months and have just completed husband’s face and he couldn’t wait to ring bishment of their rear garden facility through three very successful ones. They are usually and tell his sister, so many, many thanks for my community leadership fund. It has proved attended by representatives from the Police, that. to be very popular in the recent summer the Council, and the local Social Housing months for members to relax in a pleasant Good luck with your future editions and Association. All residents are welcome to outdoor environment. keep up the good work. come along. Beverly Garton, Ilkeston. I have been involved in helping residents in I am pleased to see the complete rebuild of the Gallows Inn Close and Hexham Avenue Dallimore Primary School now well underareas of Ilkeston with much needed flood way, thanks to the local education authority. BROTHER WAS IN PHOTO elevation measures. As a consequence Severn This of course has always had my full supTrent water are now in the process of imple- port. Thank you for sending me two issues of menting some of them. Ilkeston Life which I have very much enFinally I can always be contacted on 0115 joyed reading, especially because the SepI am an ardent supporter of 20 MPH speed 7795 518 mobiles, 07932 006742 and 07969 tember issue included a photo of pupils and limits in selected areas to enhance road safety. 144686 teachers at my old school, Hallcroft. There is a pilot taking place in Glossop in the By email on, john.frudd@derbyshire.gov.uk One of the pupils in the photograph happens north of the county at the moment. When it is or councillor.john.frudd@erewash.gov.uk. to be my brother Geoffrey, which was a great surprise! He was sitting behind Mr MORE LETTERS ON PAGE 10 Laux. I used to live in Ilkeston, born and bred so to DROP IN FOOT CLINIC speak, I was a resident for 31 years. On second Tuesday of the month Kathleen Evans, Cinderhill, Nottingham. Starting 10th November, 10am till 2.30pm
CHARITY CALENDAR Hi. I am writing to see if you would promote my 2016 charity calendar which contains photographs of our area. If you could mention it in the next issue of the paper I would be very grateful.
The charities that will benefit are the Treetops Hospice at Risley and the NHS Burns Unit at The City of Nottingham Hospital. Each calendar costs £5. Free local delivery in the Erewash area is available. They will be on sale at Earl’s Hairdressers in Ilkeston, the Deli Café in Stanton-By-Dale, Martin Ogden Butchers and Patti House in Ilkeston at this moment in time. Hopefully other outlets will take them. They can also be bought by contacting me via email at: tom.football1@tiscali.co.uk Thank you. Thomas Leleux, Ilkeston.
4 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
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TEACHER REMEMBERED John Prokopiw commented on Facebook about last month’s article ‘Young players put Ilkeston in TV spotlight’ describing how four Ilkeston youngsters—three from Hallcroft School—appeared on the BBC’s ‘All Your Own programme’ in 1953: “I was one of the 83 pupils on the Hallcroft school trip on the Devonia in 1966. ‘Ben’ Noon never taught me but of all the five staff who accompanied us on the cruise he was always the most helpful and entertaining ....he had a dry sense of humour.”
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Actor Robert Lindsay agrees to become our patron Ilkeston’s favourite son Robert Lindsay dropped into our office last month and agreed to be our patron. A devout ‘Ilkestonian’ despite his rise to fame, he went to watch Ilkeston FC play Barwell the night before in pouring rain. He retains a keen interest in his home town and loves to meet up with family and friends when he can. That is why Ilkeston Local History Society members are petitioning for him to be made a freeman of the borough. While enjoying a cup of coffee with us and members of the history society he revealed that his moustache and stubble were for the role he is playing in his latest film, Galivant, a Disney musical. He plays the character Chester Wormwood, a villain, and for that he was learning to ride a horse. He would be returning to the studios soon afterwards. One of Robert’s earliest TV successes was the series Citizen Smith, in which he played Woolfie, a young rabble rouser whose catchphrase was ‘Power to the people!’ With this in mind, our webmaster Adam Newton created the caricature featured on our masthead this month.
Story in Ilson
dialect By Jim Sumner
Mi Fost Visit ter Wembley wi’ a Class Part 2—Wi kids yo never know what’s gooin’ ta ’appen
Power to the people! Power to the paper!
Last month ar tewd thee abert the fost time ar took a class a schoolkids ta Wembley for the Schoolboy International football match. Everythin’ wa all rayt until the journey back to the train when way realised one o’ th’ lads wa missing. Ay’d walked into summat an’ wa bein’ treated by St John Ambulance men. Eventually way fernd ’im an’ just made it back to the train before it pulled ert for the journey ’om. When the train got back to Ilson, quite a few parents met us theer and took their children ’om. But the lad wi may, oo’d ’ot ’is ’ead ,said ’is parents worna theer. I decided ar’d better tay ’im ’om, so a walked back towards ’is ’erse wi’im after ’e’d towd me where ’e lived. Way wa only abert fifty yards awe an’ ’e said “Way nearly theer, it’s just dern the next road.”
SHOCK, ANGER AND PRIDE AT LOSS OF ILKESTON SIXTH FORM Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy has announced it is to close its sixth form in July next year. The decision means year 12 students will have to move elsewhere to finish their studies. Parents and students were up in arms after being told, and the initial reaction was to try and prevent the closure, but so many students have now ‘abandoned ship’ that the situation now appears hopeless. Kirk Hallam Community Academy and Heanor Gate Science College have been enrolling OIEA students eager for a new start. OIEA principal Dave Smith said: “Funding changes have had a significant impact on our budget. We simply cannot afford to keep the sixth form open. We had expected 60 students to join us in September, but in fact only 40 enrolled, and losing those students would cost us close to a quarter of a million pounds. We can’t afford to run at that sort of loss.” Students were shocked to be told the news at the school on the morning of 7th October. Amy Watkinson, 17, got in touch with Ilkeston Life to say: “As of today, the whole of Ilkeston Sixth has been informed of it being closed down at the end of July. There will no longer be an Ilkeston sixth form for the local students and the local community. “The students had been unaware of the change and each individual is now heart broken at the loss of a great asset to Ilkeston. The head of the school (Mr Smith) was aware of the possible closing of the sixth form in the summer holidays, but never informed any of the students or any of the teachers. “Teachers will be losing their jobs and students will never get the second chance that the sixth form gave them. The loss of com-
munity spirit will be dramatic; fewer students will have the opportunity to reach their goals of going to university and more students will no longer be able to afford further education learning. “We need the local community to be aware of what they will be losing: the volunteer work, the charity work for Ben`s Den, the
dreams and aspirations of students passionate about their subjects and who value their education and the staff's dedication to their students is outstanding. “I am outraged that this decision has been made without our knowledge and will do anything in my power to prevent this.” Proud parent Gill Berwick had this to say: “I wonder if you could let everyone in Ilkeston know what an amazing group of young adults we have in our area. You always hear such bad things about teenagers but yesterday I witnessed a wonderful group and I was so proud of them as they voiced their concerns in a meeting at the school. “They were amazing with their questions and reasoned arguments, I wish everyone could work we do for Gambia, the lifetime trips have heard them and seen what a fantastic and exhibitions around England and most of effort, under the circumstances, they were all the amazing teachers who have changed making in trying to keep their sixth form many lives who will now have to lose their open. They offered fund raising, sponsorship jobs. So many students are going to have to and contacting the council and MPs. Unformiss out on such an amazing opportunity that tunately you could tell this was to no avail can give them the skills they will need in but he (Mr Smith) was going to pass the life, something that colleges struggle to ofcomments on to his superiors/governors. fer. “I just want everyone to know about this and Another student, Laura Kibble, told us: be as proud as I am of these young people in “Today the students of Ormiston Ilkeston their vain attempts to secure their futures. I Enterprise Academy Sixth Form have been wish them all the luck in their future educainformed of the shocking decision to close tion. the Sixth form in the upcoming July, due to “Fortunately my own daughter has secured a the apparent lack of students. place at Kirk Hallam but I feel that they all “I am personally furious with this decision, won't be as lucky. Well done to you all and I and how little warning we received. This is hope OIEA realise what they have lost and extremely unfair on the students who had the the damage to their reputation.” opportunity to continue with their courses The Ilkeston Life Facebook page received next year and the effort that the staff and hundreds of comments about the closure, students have taken to promote the sixth with most criticising the secrecy of the situaform. I urge the students and the community tion. to fight for our sixth form for the future of Erewash MP Maggie Throup invited constudents. cerned parents to meet her at her surgery. “This sixth form is set on achieving the
I asked ’im if ’e falt alrayt an’ ’e said ‘yes’ so a watched ’im walk dern towards ’is ‘erse an’ then ar started to walk ‘om misen. A wa ready missen for a good rest an’ some supper, an’ a flopped dern on th’settee as soon as a gorrom. Ar ’adner bin theer tow minutes before thi wa a knock on the door. It wa the mother o’ the lad oo’d ’ot’ issen – an’ ow lowked in a bittera state. Ow said, “Ar Jack’ asna got back yet from Wembley an’ ar’m gerrin’ a bit worried.” I said tow ‘er: “Ar brought ’im back missen, ta near your ’erse, abert thotty yards away. Ay shudder bin back bi ner.” Just after that thi wa another knock on th’door, an’ when ar opp’ned it thi wa another woman who said: “It’s all rayt, the lad that wa missing ’as just got back. Ay’d took a short cut an’ got lost.” His mother an’ may both breathed ’uge sighs of relief. As a lay dern on th’settee after, a thowt ta misen, Yo ought to a took ’im ta the door of ’is ’erse an’ made sure ’e wa safe. If you goo ta Wembley agen yo’ll ay ta remember that. Wi kids yo never know what’s gooin’ ta ’appen!! Ar shall never forget that fost trip ta Wembley. Ar’ll tell thee summat else anall, next time ar goo to Wembley wi some scowl kids to watch the Schoolboys International arl may sure way ay a different road a gooin’ on. Ar amner gooin’ ta bay walkin’ rernd Ilson late at nayt lowkin’ for lost kids. Another tale usin’ owd wods next month.
Family Announcements You can share your family announcements here in this paper. Births, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays wishes, deaths and acknowledgements, etc., are welcome.
BIRTHDAYS
MANDY POOLTON—Happy Birthday for 5th November —Hope your Birthday goes with a Sweet Treat and a Loud Bang! Love Michelle and Louis xx MARION MARSLAND—Happy Birthday (4th November)! Enjoy your day. From all at Lime Towers! POLLY—Many Happy Returns of the Day on 6th November. Hope you have a great Birthday Dear Friend and you know why I wanted to send you these Birthday Wishes, don’t you? Love and Best Wishes from Michelle and all the KIDS xx Know someone with a birthday in December? Wish them many happy returns in this column. It’s free.
WANTED Did you buy and do you still own a copy of A History of Hallcroft School by Rodney Smith, published by Moorleys in 1971? Advertiser will pay up to 100 times what you paid for it, depending on condition. Write to Box 101, Ilkeston Life, stating your asking price.
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Ilkeston Life, November 2015
5
Letter
From left to right, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhinsda, volunteers Perry, James, Head Chef Paul Fogg, Sarah, James and Shirley and Cllr Michelle Booth.
Luncheon club members learn of scams An Age UK affiliated Luncheon Club meets every Monday at the Flamsteed Centre on Albert Street in Ilkeston. Diners were visited the other week by Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhinsda, who brought along with him, some literature on the Scam Watch Derbyshire project that is funded by the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Derbyshire. Deputy Commissioner Hardyal enjoyed his lunch with Ilkeston diners and said ‘We hope Scam Watch will help to improve people’s understanding of how scams work, help identify who is most at risk and help prevent people falling victim to fraud ‘ Cllr Booth had distributed the posters with the message NO TRICK OR TREAT to the diners too. Head Chef Paul Fogg said: “Anyone wanting to come and join us for lunch just needs to turn up on a Monday about 11.45am, lunches are served at 12 noon, except on Bank Holiday Mondays, when we are closed.”
My answer to the gambling question
Regarding the question faced by the caller to Premier Christian Radio (and reported in last month’s paper) as to whether as a churchgoer he should be gambling at all, I would say this: It is interesting that the Bible itself ‘does not specifically condemn gambling’. God himself accepted a wager from Satan in the book of Job. This introduces the theme of ‘suffering for one’s faith’, a theme familiar to any pilgrim’s progress. In a suffering world, where our hearts are open, how can we not ourselves suffer? A growth in spirituality is a growth in sensitivity and as one journeys along this road, matters of idle curiosity or dogmatic debate become those of lived experience. They then become instructive in their own terms in showing the way forward. A practical counsel against gambling is that the odds are always stacked against you. The thrill of the initial triumph will inevitably catapult you towards ultimate defeat. But this man’s passion is horse racing and success is not only down to chance. In studying the form he can level the odds and even move them in his favour. Therefore, he is not a victim but a prospering victor. He loves what he does and is good at it. He is using his talent and making the church a beneficiary of it. However, as this man progresses in his faith, what does he experience in his relationship to this activity? That, for me, is or will be the question and is or will be the guide. Any transformation needs to come from within that lived experience and will do so of itself. Richard Shaw, Ilkeston
Clothing collection for refugees One person’s compassion-turned-intoaction resulted in a van load of clothing being sent to help refugees fleeing the unrest in Syria. St Andrews church member Sylvia Gething of Ilkeston was so moved by the plight of refugees on the TV news that she decided to do something about it. “I asked permission of our minister, the Rev Dick Styles, if I could use the cellar in church to store clothes, etc.,” she said. “He okayed it if I could assure him that they would all be collected. “It took six phone calls to locate Christian Aid and eventually I contacted Help For Refugees based in Matlock who agreed to collect by 5th October.” “Local people contributed an amazing 135 black bags of clothing, shoes, blankets, etc. Then we had to organise a team to transfer them from the basement to a van on Bath Street. “It was a dismal Monday morning—raining hard—but our determined team of men and ladies managed to do it in the time limit. It was a great team effort and I would like to thank everyone who helped. “It was great to see the bags leave Ilkeston on the first part of their journey to a place where they will be gratefully received by people who have nothing.”
St. John’s, Nottingham Road, Ilkeston Why not join us for one of our special events this season? 29th Nov. 6.00pm - Advent Carol Service 4th Dec. 2.00pm Hallam Fields School Singing; 7.30pm Christmas Concert 6th Dec. 10.00am Christingle Parade Service 13th Dec. 6.00pm Evensong with the Bishop of Derby 20th Dec. 10.00am Carols & Communion; 6.00pm Carol Service 24th Dec. 11.30pm - MIDNIGHT COMMUNION 25th Dec. 10.00am Informal Christmas Communion
St. John’s Christmas Tree Come and see the Christmas trees at St John’s Church, Nottingham Road. The church will be open: Friday 4th Dec. 10.00am – 4.00pm; Saturday 5th Dec. 10.00am – 4.00pm Refreshments, tombola, craft stall, Quiet area for prayer and reflection Raffle tickets on sale – 1st Prize £50 (Raffle tickets available at all services) Also on Friday 4th Dec.: Hallam Fields School Choir will sing at 2.00pm And Chiaro di Canto will give a free concert at 7.30pm
6 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
ONE MINUTE MESSAGE What does your face say without words? Are you approachable or does your expression turn people away? Andrew Lloyd Webber’s song With One Look from Sunset Boulevard contains the words: With one look, I can break your heart With one look, I play every part I can make your sad heart sing With one look, you'll know all you need to know. With one smile, I'm the girl next door Or the love that you've hungered for When I speak, it's with my soul I can play any role. We may have heard someone say: I’ll never forget the way he/she looked at me. Looks can be powerful. We should make sure our looks reveal kindness, understanding, compassion and acceptance. When Jesus looked at someone he looked beyond the physical appearance. With his eyes he saw a new, changed person if they would follow him. His look was a look of love, in spite of the person’s past. He saw the possibility of a new start.
Group is looking to set up a Faith and Light community in Ilkeston ‘Faith & Light’ is a Christian association that includes people with learning disabilities or learning difficulties, their families and friends. It is made up of local Faith & Light communities that meet regularly, usually every month, for three things: Friendship, Worship and Celebration and also to lead services from time to time. A group of Christians in Ilkeston are working towards setting up a local ‘Faith & Light’ community and would like to hear from anyone who might be interested in joining this new venture. Helpers are also needed even if only on an occasional basis. The first praise meeting of this group is planned for Saturday, 7th November, 3pm, at Queen St Baptist Church. Members of Faith & Light from West Bridgford will be visiting to West Hallam Methodist Church on Sunday, 17th April 2016 to take the morning service. Further details will be available nearer the time. If you would like to know more about ‘Faith & Light’ in Ilkeston, either as a member or a helper, please contact Pat Sharpe on 0115 919 9766. You may also like to check the national website: faithandlight.org.uk (part of the L’arche organisation). =====
Pre-Christmas Bazaar
Depending on how you look at this picture, Jesus’s eyes are closed or staring straight at you.
St Andrews on Wilmot Street, Ilkeston is having a Pre-Christmas Bazaar on Saturday 21st November. Stalls selling a variety of goods will be open between 9.30am and 12 noon. Refreshments will also be available.
Church but not as you know it Activities, music and a simple meal for you and your children
Get messy this month at Ilkeston URC (Green Spire Church) Sat. 14th November, 4 - 5.30 pm Ilkeston Methodist Church at St Andrews Thur. 26th November, 3.30 - 5.30pm The Faith Journey page is brought to you by members of the local Christian community and with occasional inspiration from
Ilkeston Life, November 2015
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The Diary of Florence the Vicarage Cat Dear Diary, Just breathing in deeply, gosh I love the smell of the evening’s air at the moment. It has a whiff of frostiness, mixed with the smell of burning logs and coal and, oddly, jacket potatoes, unless I’m mistaken, which I’m not. And the ground starts to feel a little frosty under my paws, which makes my whiskers tingle. Then of course I love watching the special lights in the sky. I’m not sure why but the other cats hide, and even the mice hide in the church! I love watching out of the window as the nights draw in and our human friends go outside and wave sparkly sticks in their hands – the colours leave a trail as they wave them – gosh I’d love to chase them, but I’m always kept safely inside. Then something amazing happens and I can see something speeding up to the heavens, and it must touch heaven as then it bursts into various sparkling colours that slowly fade while falling back to the ground again. I’m not sure why but the other cats hide under the bed at this point, it’s almost like they have another sense that I don’t share – that makes them scared of something, and then they miss out on watching all the flying fiery things in the sky. As I said, it only is for one night or a couple of nights, perhaps the humans are celebrating something, I’m not sure, but it’s then back to the day to day routine of life at the Vicarage. I was winning at the ‘Lose My Collar’ game, having lost one on a hedge down by Oliver Road just last week, but my human guardian has now put another collar on me, this one is gold with shining stones on it – perhaps to remind her of the shining fiery lights she loves watching, and it’s got another one of those round disks on it that reads ‘Florence is deaf’ – still not sure what it means but I’ll have great fun trying to lose this one twice as quickly. Bye for now - Florence.
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8 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
We fell for it every time—it was all the fun of the fair The recent arrival of the Ronnie’s home city of Ilson Fair brought back Liverpool. Tommy lost great memories of my a very close contest but it teenage years during the must be remembered he late 1940s and early was only 18 years of age 1950s. Although the at the time. The leading fair in those days didn’t sports book of the time have the frightening called Sporting Personal120ft tower drops and ities of the Day described the upside down spinhim as an ‘elusive’ feathning rides, I thought the erweight. fair from my youth was Tommy started his projust as exciting. fessional career as a banAlongside the church wall on the top market tamweight. He fought all the big names of place were the Giant Steam Yachts called, the day including the South African champiI believe, Jellicoe and Beatty after the 1st on Jimmy Webster, whom he beat at Mile World War admirals. They belched out End, London. Even his defeats were only great clouds of steam from a steam-powered by the odd round. driving engine as they swung to a vertical Most professional boxers in those days had position. There was no clamping in for a day job as well. Tommy was a miner. An safety in those days – just a bar to hold on old miner I knew told me he looked after the to. pit ponies at Cossall Pit during the 1950s. Nearby was the Wall of Death where a mo- On his retirement from the ring he ran a torcyclist went speeding round a vertical boxing gymnasium in his spare time at Ilwall, and who can forget the Rotary where keston Miners Welfare where he encouraged the centrifugal force of a large rotating cyl- miners to keep fit. I believe Tommy ended inder kept riders stuck halfway up the spin- his working days at Stanton Ironworks.* ning wall until it slowed down from its great After 10pm was the best time to go to the speed, allowing them to slide down to the boxing booth if you wanted a good laugh as floor. Fairground engineering at its best, I the local lads turned out from the pubs. Of reckon. course the lads were full of Shippo’s and The highlight of the fair for me, however, stood in groups, cheering and heckling the was Billy Wood’s Boxing Booth, situated boxers on the platform at the front of the at the bottom end of the Lower Market booth. With great encouragement from his Place. Half a dozen booth fighters who mates, one of the number would offer to toured with the show would stand in a line fight a booth fighter. That of course would on the booth platform where the showman fill the marquee. I don’t remember any of would introduce them one by one offering, I these lads winning as the inebriated chalthink, a ten bob note to go three lenger, arms flailing like a windrounds with his fighter. mill, only managed to hit fresh air. Ten shillings was nearly ten pints The fair boxer usually took it easy in those days. Of course they had on him. The challenger soon beto match up pretty well in weight. came exhausted and struggled to Larry Lister, the resident booth get off his stool for the next round. heavyweight, was a name I rememI seem to remember the promoter ber. He was the Lincolnshire giving the lad five bob for a good heavyweight champion who I don’t effort. That of course ensured a remember winning many fights. full house for the following night. Showmen don’t generally like losMuch of the fair stayed until the ing money so I think there was a Tommy Plowright following Tuesday, with the Monbit of fixing going on. I met Larry day takings being given to British 25 years later and he was so pleased I reLegion – many of the fair people having membered him. served in the forces. Jimmy Featherstone was one of the best For me, the Ilson Fair in those long gone boxers I saw fight and a particular favourite days was more exciting and interesting of mine. Tommy Plowright was probably than now. Some of the side shows wouldn’t the most famous boxer the town produced. be allowed in today’s society. There was He and brother Jimmy came off Brussels the Giant Rat, the World’s Largest Pig, Terrace although they were born in Brinsthe Bearded Lady, and the Jumping Fleas ley. His first fight at Ilson Fair was at the on East Street. We knew we were being age of 14 – remarkable! Health and Safety conned most of the time but that didn’t matand the Social Services would have a field ter. Darts that were weighted to miss the day today! target, rifles that only hit their target by luck He showed great promise and Jack Britton and hoops that barely fitted over the blocks became his manager for the first eight years of wood – we fell for it every time! We of his career. Tommy reached the eliminat- accepted it as the fun of the fair. ing stages for the flyweight championships Does anyone know where the painting of of the world where he was knocked out by Tommy Plowright went to? I’d like to phoNorman Lewis, flyweight champion of tograph it. I know it once hung in a Bath Wales, whom he fought a number of times Street pub. sharing equal wins and losses. Danny Corns Ted Broadrib, a top manager at that time, took Tommy under his wing and turned him * Editor’s note. Tommy worked at Staninto a featherweight. A measure of success ton’s Erewash Foundry as a sweeper-up followed when he beat Norman Lewis, Joe when I was there. I was told, “Don’t try talking to him, he’s punch drunk.” He Curren (Liverpool) and Billy Hazelgrove (Brighton). His most outstanding fight was looked a poor soul and I felt really sorry for him. All those years in the ring being against Ronnie Clayton in 1941 for the knocked about had taken their toll. featherweight champion of the world at months to complete. The actual site chosen was in a slum area in one of the poorest parts The club met at their usual venue, the Are- of Nottingham. na Christian Centre, on Thursday 8th Oc- The first production was “School for Scantober. The club President, Paul Stephendal” which will be produced again this year son, welcomed members and guest speaker as part of the celebrations. for the day, Trevor Lee. Trevor illustrated his talk with theatre postThe theme of Trevor’s talk was “The History ers of the many famous people who have appeared there through the years especially of the Theatre Royal, Nottingham” which in their excellent pantomime productions, celebrates 150 years, this year. It was built in 1856 by lace manufacturers John William including Gracie Fields, Cannon & Ball, David Hasselhoff, to mention a few. The Lambert at a cost of £15,000 and took 6
ILKESTON MEN’S PROBUS
How well do you know your Ilkeston? 1. Two marble columns stand in Victoria Park. Where did they come from? 2. Who was Thurman Street named after and what was his profession? 3. Who was the first Mayor of Ilkeston and where is he buried? 4. Who was the last Chairman of the old Ilkeston Board? 5. What was Jack Hickinbottom famous for during the 1950s and where was his shop? And who was his famous niece? 6. Where was Weaver Pool? 7. Who was the architect of the New Inn on Bath Street? 8. What year was the Ilkeston Secondary School opened and by whom? 9. A stone pineapple sits on the top of the Old Wine Vaults at the junction of High Street and East Street—what is the meaning of it? 10. Where were the Vauxhall Gardens and what was their purpose?
Answers: 1. They were part of the entrance to Nottingham Gaol, prior to being re-sited at Rutland House. 2. Henry Thurman, a solicitor on Bath St. 3. Francis Sudbury was elected the first Mayor on 9.5.1887; he is buried in Stanton Road Cemetery. 4. The same person: Francis Sudbury. 5. Jack Hickinbottom made Teddy Boy suits during the Rock and Roll period. Customers came from all over the country. His shop was on the corner of Heanor Road and Granby Street, where Hamilton’s school clothing shop is now. His niece was Diane Westbury, a wellknown beauty queen who became Miss United Kingdom in 1963. 6. Roughly to the rear of Weaver Row at the bottom of the Ritz car park. It was filled in during the 1930s prior to the building of the Ritz cinema. 7. Mr Harry Tatham Sudbury. 8. His Majesty King George V on 25.6.1914. 9. A pineapple means we offer you a warm welcome, and can be found on many buildings. 10. Situated behind the former Rutland Hotel, roughly where Dunelm is placed. They provided a pleasant area for recuperation after guests had taken the waters at the nearby Spa baths. Many local events also took place there.
Compiled by local historian Danny Corns speaker played recordings of some of the artists and actually joined in by singing along with the music. In 1977 the theatre underwent a great deal of much needed restoration at a cost of £4,000,000. The first artist to perform after the restoration, with a three week booking, was the very popular Ken Dodd. Trevor received a vote of thanks for a very entertaining and informative talk.
Barry Sutcliffe
The Way We Were
Fatal accident at West Hallam Station by Grant Shaw The Great Northern Railway’s line from Derby to Nottingham passed through Breadsall, Stanley and West Hallam before reaching Ilkeston at the Heanor Road station and passing over the Bennerley Viaduct through Awsworth and Kimberley. It opened in 1878. Not long after opening, tragedy struck at the new West Hallam station. One Sunday in early October 1884, Godfrey Bostock (68) and his wife Mary (67), who lived in Kimberley took the train to West Hallam to visit Mrs Bostock’s brother who was landlord of the White Post Inn at Smalley Common. They walked back to West Hallam Station that evening in time to catch the 8.38pm train home to Kimberley. The ticket office was in the middle of a long platform and after giving them their tickets, Mr Pound the Station Master said there was plenty of time and they shouldn’t hurry. However, hearing a train whistle they rushed down the platform to cross over the track to the Nottingham-bound side. There was no footbridge and they had to walk down to the end of the station-side platform near to the road bridge to cross the line. Several bystanders and the porter later said they had shouted at the couple to stop. Because there was a slight curve in the track, at night it might have been difficult to see what was happening. This was actually not the Nottingham train but an engine making its way without carriages from Derby to Pinxton. It was not due to stop and was still travelling at about thirty miles an hour. As the engine passed under the bridge and over
the crossing, Mr and Mrs Bostock were both struck by the locomotive and both were killed. An inquest was held the next evening at the Newdigate Arms. The Coroner, Mr W. Harvey Whiston heard evidence from Mr and Mrs Bostock’s son Robert that neither of his parents had any difficulty with their hearing. Henry Bloor, a platelayer on the railway confirmed that he was one of those who had shouted to the elderly couple not to cross the line. He was thirty or forty yards away and said that the lamps on the platform had been lit and the moon was shining. He ran towards them, but was too far away to reach the Bostocks in time and although he finally thought they would make it across, they seemed to stop and stare at the oncoming engine at the last moment until it struck them. When he reached the bodies, lying on their backs one on each side of the track, it was obvious nothing could be done, although the train had not actually passed over them.
William Pilkington of Pinxton was the engine’s driver. He told the inquest that he gave a long whistle before approaching the cutting at Stanley as usual and did not see anyone in front although it was a clear bright night. He felt the engine run over something just as he passed under the bridge, and pulled up. He found a walking stick between the rail guard and the brake block of the engine. He also found a woman’s bonnet between the trailing wheel and the step. He and his mate went down to assist in removal of the bodies, which they found to be ‘quite dead, death apparently being instantaneous’. The Coroner said it appeared to have been ‘a purely accidental affair’. It was for the jury to say whether blame was attributable to anyone, and ‘that any suggestion they might make with regard to the erection of a bridge no doubt the company would be glad to hear’. Mr Ogden, the jury foreman said that it was a ‘very awkward place’ but in this case ‘people
seemed to have done everything they could’. The crossing’s position on a curve close to the base of the road bridge, made it very dangerous. ‘No doubt after that the Company, without any suggestion, would feel inclined to take steps to prevent anything of that sort occurring in the future’. The jury returned a verdict that Mr and Mrs Bostock were ‘accidentally killed by being run over by a pilot engine’. The railway soon installed an arched footbridge at the other end of the platform, as far away as possible from the road bridge at a cost of £235. The full report of the inquest was printed in the Ilkeston Advertiser of 11th October, 1884. The accident was also reported in the Ilkeston Pioneer on 9th October 1884. The railway paid for a large headstone memorial to the Bostocks which can still be seen in Kimberley Cemetery . They also gave £25 compensation to their relatives . A sad coincidence is that nine years after the fatal accident to Mr & Mrs Bostock at West Hallam Station, Henry Bloor, the railway worker from Stanley who had given evidence at their inquest was himself run over and killed by a train while he was walking on the track. The same coroner, this time sitting at the White Hart at West Hallam, heard that Mr Bloor had been walking towards West Hallam Station on the track which a Derbybound train would usually take, so that he would see it approaching. Unfortunately, a train had been diverted on to the ‘wrong’ track as single track working was in operation. This hit him from behind, killing him instantly. He had worked for the GNR for twelve years and was described at the inquest as ‘a very steady man’, reported the Derby Mercury of 18th January 1893. West Hallam Station, which was actually in the Parish of Stanley, closed in 1966 although some of the buildings still exist as a private house and a garden ornament outlet. The ‘Friargate Line’ from Nottingham to Derby closed in the late 1960’s.
Above: A trolley bus at Hallam Fields, c.1953. Left: A page from the Trade Section of the Ilkeston and district Directory 1965-65; Right: An advert by A C Witcher, Bath Street tailor, featured in a 1952 Derby Evening Telegraph publication.
Ilkeston Life, November 2015
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LETTERS OVERFLOW READER SUPPLIES ILKESTON BOMB DAMAGE PICTURE Hi. My dad read Barry Everley’s article in last month’s paper (Childhood Memories of World War II) and remembered he had this photograph. Barry says in his article, some houses on Nottingham Road took a direct bomb hit. I believe these are the houses he was referring to. Sarah Munro, Ilkeston.
FRIEND WAS BULLIED INTO PAYING TOO MUCH
Dear Sir, I spoke to a friend today who has been conned out of a lot of money by rogue traders. Would you put this warning in the paper. I would like to warn everyone about con men knocking on their doors to offer cheap labour. One of my friends was taken for £175 when they were told at the outset the work would be £40 to clean their soffits and gutters. One man knocked on the door offering to do the job but SIX were there to collect the money! They were driving a white lorry and the men had Irish accents. Do not be afraid to offend people who knock on your door. If you do not know who it is, do not open the door. If you need essential work doing, contact the council for the fair trading list of workers. Patricia Spencer, Ilkeston.
Views thus shared also then have more power to show us what, in response to any question, we can and would like to do about it. If anyone is interested in moving such an idea forward, they can contact me thorough this newspaper. Leave a note at the office, 1 Bath St., or email ilkestonlife@gmail.com. Richard Shaw, Ilkeston
SERVICE APPRECIATED
Recently five members of St Andrews went to Nottingham Road Methodist Church to listen to the Rev Paul Dunstan who used to be a minister in Ilkeston but is now based in Birmingham. The service was both moving and inspiring and we all felt uplifted at the end. We felt we had truly ‘been to church’ and experienced something special. It was good to renew our friendship with Paul and to be part of his ministry again. Sylvia Gething, Ilkeston
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Thank you for all your letters printed in this month’s paper. What a bumper postbag! Your letters on any local matter are welcome, as are your comments on the paper. Several people have contacted us to say they have not and the considered attention he had given to contribute? Maybe not that much, to begin received a copy through their door. We are different aspects of the migrant question, with as the very progress of a conversation delighted that you don’t want to miss a copy together with the contributions from the oth- can excite our desire to find out more. Even and we are sorry you haven't had one deliver writers. It made me realise just how much thinking about something on our own can ered, but you can pick up a paper from a of an inclination we human beings have to move things forward. nearby shop for just 20p. Please don’t ask us think about things and share our thoughts. Regardless of the level of expertise we alto post you one when it is much cheaper and It can happen in any street encounter and ready have, the return on a little bit of time easier for you to buy one. every conversation in a pub! But sometimes invested in thinking about something during We have been asked if we can have a Family perhaps it could benefit from having its set- the day can be a thought or two the following Announcements column—births, marriages, THOUGHTS ON AWAKENING— ting and being a regular meeting. Would morning we would never have thought ourdeaths, congratulations, etc. The answer is OUR OWN DAWN CHORUS anyone be interested in forming such a disselves capable of. If voiced with others, this yes. Send us your announcements and we’ll Dear Sir, I was deeply respectful of the letter cussion group? can become a chorus where everyone has put them in—entirely free of charge for the from Matt Beaumont in the October issue How much expertise would we then need to something valuable to contribute. time being to get the column going. — Ed.
10 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
Your Space Poems plus Share your creative writing with other Ilkeston Life readers. Email ilkestonlife@gmail.com or drop in/post to The Editor, Ilkeston Life, 1 Bath Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8AH.
Remembrance Sunday Remember those who went and died, Each November, comrades cried, Memories of days long gone, Even though their wars were won. Marching past in rank and file, Brothers-in-arms for many a mile, Regiments who’ve lost their sons, Await to honour fallen ones, Never to return to homes, Cenotaphs now bear their names, Every one a mother’s son. Silence paid to those who’ve gone, Unsung heroes to a man, Not for some a burial place, Distinguished by their willing grace, A sacrifice their lives to lay, Young and old give thanks today. Derek Wheatley
To my pal Billy Thrown together because of war On foreign soil mid battle’s roar Mates we became, looking out for each other Your friendship kept me going through many a bother Painful was the day when you fell by my side A moment of horror that lives on in my mind Lost were so many, the number was great But you I remember especially, my buddy, my mate. I think of you on Remembrance Day Laughing and joking, come what may Lost too young, the victory you never saw You who laid down your life in war. Rest in peace, my hero friend In deepest sorrow this tribute I have penned Perfect respect and reverence I send.
A Soldier’s Plea Back in the year of ’44 The papers came to go to war. I left my home—I had a plan, Went a boy—came back a man. Tears and blood were all I had, Saw death’s face on many a lad, Swore I’d change this dreadful state, Love the man I had to hate. I’d change the life of guns and blood Into the peace of brotherhood, But what can one man do alone To make a battlefield a home? Perhaps one day the wars will cease And man will live with man in peace, All this waste of life will end, We’ll see each other as a friend.
REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE IN ILKESTON
So keep the precious hours of youth, Live each day in peace and truth, Open your eyes to what you see, I can’t—a bullet blinded me.
Market Place, Sunday 8th November 2015
Mary Wheatley
Robert Anthony
10am: Parade begins to assemble on South Street car park. 10.20: Parade, led by Ilkeston Brass, heads for Cenotaph. 10.40: Wreath laying. The first wreath will be laid by the Lord Lieutenant for Derbyshire (or his Deputy) followed by the Mayor, the Member of Parliament, the Regular Forces, the Royal British Legion, Ex-Service and representatives of other organisations and private individuals. Followed by: Service including Last Post , Act of Homage and the National Anthem. Followed by: Reforming of the Parade for March Past.
My Visit to the Fair The fun fair... Everyone is there, Even the mayor. People laughing, screaming too, There are people standing in a long queue, All waiting to try a ride, Those people coming off look like they've had a fright. All the bright lights flashing in my eyes, Try your luck, you might win a prize! Wow, that ride is so high in the sky, Everyone’s queueing so you have to squeeze by.
Lily Rosa Smith aged 9.
Ilkeston Life, November 2015
11
The night of the new suede shoes Cycling back to our home in Shaw Street, Ilkeston, from Toton sheds, I found myself thinking of my Saturday night out. It was all arranged with my two buddies to meet at the Premier Dance Hall around 8pm. I had clocked in at work at 7 that morning. I was fireman to driver Ernie Peat and we had been to Birmingham. While there we had worked near to some shops at a station called Aston, and I had come away from a shoe shop with a pair of suede shoes. Classy and pricey, they were tucked in my haversack. I cycled up to Trowell Church and, once over the bridge, I reached back and felt my shoes. I started to quicken up along the flat road to home. As I reached Gallows Inn, the first flurries of snow begin to drift over me, floating like feathers like I was in a pillow fight. Not to worry, I couldn’t care a fig about snow, not just then anyway. “Mam, I’m here!” I shouted and I breezed through the ever open back kitchen door. I whipped off my haversack. “Here y’are!” I said to my young sister Pat. “Have a decko at these and put the laces in, will yer?” Mam got up from the settee. “I’ll make you a cup of tea, our Geoff,” she said looking at Patricia at the same time. Mam missed nothing. My sister Muriel, hearing the mini commotion from her bedroom, came clattering down the bare staircase. Pat showed her the shoes. “Christ!” she yelled (no whispering with Muriel). “How can you afford these?” “I save my money.” I replied. “It’s all right,” she said, looking at our mam, “He can afford anything.” Mam said, “Leave him alone, Muriel. He works all the hours God sends.” Later I was having a good wash and shave, counting the minutes till I was going out, singing my head off at the same time. Half an hour later I presented myself to the family, resplendent in my new suede shoes. “Well, how do I look then?”
12 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
My suede shoes were real class. I was the cat’s whiskers, the girls both agreed. Mam just said. “Fabulous. You deserve to go out, working all those hours.” She followed me through to the front room door and remembered her own youth. Her father wouldn’t allow his daughters out at the weekend. “Not likely,” he’s said. “Don’t want no trouble here.” He went to the pub on Sunday lunchtimes and came home bad tempered with his belt at the ready. She told me about it often and I didn’t mind one bit. I always loved Mam. She asked, “Geoff, will you want me to wait up for you?” I replied, “No Mam, you never know, I might have to take someone home.” I was thinking of a sweet girl in a blue dress I had encountered on a previous occasion. I went up Nottingham Road at a pace. I was buzzing. All sorts of thoughts were going round in my head as to how I would approach this young lass for a dance. Soon I reached the wide open doors of the Premier Dance Hall on Market Street. The band was in full swing; I had heard it well before I got there. As I made to enter, I spotted a commotion that made me feel uneasy. “’Ere, do you know this man?” the doorman, police constable Jones asked. I did. It was Gerald. The policeman had him propped up against the wall. He was drunk. “As a matter of fact, I do,” I said. “Well take him out of here, otherwise I’m going to book him.” I panicked a little. “But constable, I’m going to meet my mates at the dance. I’m already late as it is.” PC Jones let go of the man and disappeared. Gerald started to slide down the wall. I had to grab him quickly. I was landed and I knew it. I realised the dilemma. I’d come to a dance, not to bother with drunks. Suppose I left him. Would he freeze to death? I didn’t know. It was snowing hard, otherwise I’d have left him. Or would I? Who knows? Gerald was more than drunk, he was paralytic. I was in my best grey suit, my new suede shoes and my nearly new mac. What should I do? I tried talking to him and shaking him. He could have been dead. I couldn’t even feel him breathing. Bending down, I hoisted him on my shoulder and straightened up. He was so heavy – a dead weight. I set off and after only 20 paces I felt my knees start to buckle. You’re a stupid fool, I said to myself, you should have left him. There were at least two inches of snow and it was still coming down, plus everywhere was in total darkness. Not a single light. No cars, no buses, no people, nothing; only me and you know who. Eventually I got him home. A young girl of about sixteen came to the door. “I’ve brought your brother
home, sozzled,” I told her. She stood there staring. Eventually she muttered, “I’ll fetch me dad.” With a lot of effort we got him into the house. The young girl said: “I don’t know, our Gerald, the company you keep.” I stood there, my body relieved but shaking. Thanks a million, mate! I turned and walked away, deeply offended and disappointed. By now, thoughts of a night out at the Premier were far away, and I trudged home. I barged through our front door. Mam, Pat and Muriel were horrified. “Our Geoff, have you been in a fight?” All eyes were on me. I moved through and sat down, conked out. I’d had enough. Silence reigned for a bit as they waited for me to tell them what had happened. Muriel said: “He’s been in a ploughed field. Just look at them shoes.” I looked down myself. My shoes, my brand new shoes, were ruined. I looked at my jacket: two buttons gone. After a cup of tea I had improved enough to tell my family about my big night out. They just listened, mouths open. Muriel said at last: “You’re a bloody fool, our Geoff.” Pat turned the radio on. Billy Cotton and his band helped to cheer us all up. Mam came up behind me: “Never mind, our Geoff, there’ll be other Saturday nights to enjoy, you’ll see.” I took off my shoes. “I’m not wearing these any more,” I said, “they’re useless.” Muriel, seeing opportunities, said: “Don’t you want them then, our Geoff? Can I have them for my Jim (her fiance)?”
by Geoff Hayes
I replied: “Yep, take them. Hang on, I’ll cut you a deal. Clean me black ’uns and they’re yours.” “Deal.” Muriel was already reaching under the table and added, “I’ll put some buttons on your jacket. How’s that?” She’d got a good deal but I didn’t care. I spent the rest of the evening getting warm and we all enjoyed the Billy Cotton Band Show, even doing a bit of dancing to it. My night out wasn’t so bad after all.
Ilkestonian Geoff Hayes has been writing some stories of his life.
CHILDHOOD MEMORIES OF WORLD WAR II Last month I ended with the tale of the man in the Bridge Inn at Cotmanhay who tricked the barman into giving him more than his ration of beer. Another drinking place that sticks in my mind, although out of Ilkeston, was the public house in the old village of Wollaton. It was notorious for never being seen to be open; on one occasion I saw from the window of the double-decker bus a notice on the front door which read as follows: “We’ve got no beer. We’ve got no stout. You put them in (the Labour Government in 1945). So you can get them out!! One revolting memory I have is of a prisoner of war camp was erected above the lane running from Stanton-by-Dale to Dale Abbey where I believe Italian captured soldiers were incarcerated. Walking to Kensington School I used to see some such men clad in light brown fatigues overalls sitting at the back of lorries transporting them to some labouring job or other, I suppose. On one occasion some swarthy faced loud mouthed oaf gesticulated at me and, jeering, wetted my head with a well-aimed mouthful of spit. Some years later – 1946 I think, I found myself at close quarters with another enemy soldier; this time it was a German prisoner of war who was attached to a threshing team working at Field Farm, Stanton-by-Dale, passing sheaves of wheat to me at the top of a Dutch barn. Initially I had a vague fear that he might attack me with a potentially lethal hay fork but this feeling quickly passed. When it came to the midday break for a cooked meal he was not allowed to sit at table with the rest of us, instead food was taken out to him to eat sitting comfortably on a bale of straw in a warm, draft free place between two cow sheds. As a variant on the common theme “What
did you do in the War, Daddy?” my contribution to the war effort concerned gas masks which for many months we always took to school slung on a shoulder in a paper cardboard box. Someone in some Ministry or other decided that protection was inadequate so a separate round filter needed to be fitted, fastened in place by thick sticking plaster. A supply of filters were located in a store situated next to the coal merchant’s garage at the top of Shaw Street in the care of an elderly gentleman who had a list of people in the immediate area who needed contacting. With the help of my new bicycle, formerly the property of a family friend who alas had been killed in the army, I picked up the gas masks and took them to the above mentioned and returned them after being fitted with the extra filter. Incidentally, the only other casualty I knew was a next door neighbour who I remember with kindness who had joined the RAF and who disappeared on a bombing raid in Germany. THE ‘THERMOMETER’ OUTSIDE THE LIBRARY One way in which everybody could contribute to the war effort was to buy into National Savings with the overall purpose of taking money out of the economy leaving more to finance the armed services. Linking saving to a particular object resulted in towns being encouraged to save to buy, say, a submarine or aeroplane. To publicise such an idea in Ilkeston for example a large fund-raising thermometer replica was fixed on the outside front of the library overlooking the market place. I also remember seeing a propaganda film in technicolour at the Kings cinema which included the following jingle set to the ‘Keep the home fires burning’ melody – “When the stamps you’re sticking
Going to school: boys with their gas masks in cardboard boxes
It’s the Hun you’re licking (then) lift up your voice and sing: It depends on me.” Sometime during the war a German fighter plane, maybe a Messerschmitt or FockeWulf crash-landed in a field near Trowell Lane Ends; I joined a great throng to see it; no evidence of anyone killed could be seen and amazingly the area surrounding was not cordoned off so it was possible to climb on the machine. An exciting event indeed!
time with a fellow wearing a kilt and another time a fellow Royal Marine from Derby who eventually married my sister and once with a man who I later discovered was a prisoner being escorted to some military penal establishment. At one time I went to see him off at Nottingham Midland railway station where the refreshment room, because of a crockery shortage, served tea in small white bowls.
With VE Day and the end of fighting in Europe, celebratory street parties were held At home, highlights occurred when my brother who had signed on voluntarily man- pretty well everywhere; ours was held in aged some leave. A hero in my eyes in his Mr Wheatley’s yard near the bottom of Shaw Street. Pebbles were swept up and smart Royal Marines uniform complete with rifle he invariably turned up with some tables erected using timbers nailed to some of the sheds containing the milk floats. other member of the armed forces, at one Food was donated by a number of households whilst a house adjoining the yard proDuring the Second World War years, comics like Dandy and Beano did their bit to raise vided music for dancing. A bonfire was lit the spirits of young readers. Printed on make-do discoloured paper they told stories of on the main road at the top of which was funny incidents and heroism, which today would probably not be considered acceptaplaced a guy dressed up to look like Adolf ble. But these were different times. They were being patriotic. Korky the Cat, Lord Hitler. A similar event took place on VJ day after Japan surrendered. Snooty and Desperate Dan were out to make boys and girls laugh when times were pretty bleak and possibly away from home. Along with weeklies for older readers like In next month’s article I’ll tell you about Wizard, Rover, Skipper, Adventure and Hotspur, their contribution to the war effort was public entertainment in the war years—the to put a smile on the nation’s youngsters, even when those faces were hidden behind days of the ‘wireless’ and Ilkeston’s four cinemas. gas masks.
ties with bygone Christmas traditions and customs, and residents and children can meet Ebenezer Scrooge, listen to Victorian carol after which the sky will explode in a riot of singers and meet some of the residents of colour as fireworks add to the magical atmos- Dalby House. phere. There will be traditional music and Cllr Mike Wallis, Erewash Council’s Lead songs with local band Money Spiders and Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “It is Ilkeston Brass, and the festive fun will also always a lovely, family event that brings include a Christmas Market, lots of everyone together to welcome the festive ‘walkabout’ characters and carol singers. season and it’s a great opportunity for us to Erewash Museum also joins the free festivi- celebrate all that our town has to offer.”
Ilkeston Christmas Lights Switch–on This year’s Christmas lights switch-on is expected to be more fun than ever. Mayor of Erewash, Councillor Val Custance, will ‘light up’ the town to officially launch the Christmas season on Friday 27th November. The celebration event will take place between 5.30 and 8.30pm in Ilkeston town centre, with the Mayor pulling the switch at 7pm
Part 2 by Barry J Everley
Did you know Charlie Butters? We have a great picture next month.
By Li-na and Anthony Opiah
Remembering Twenty-seven pupils from Hallam Fields Junior School will be filing down to the war memorial situated in the grounds of the ‘Stute’, where Ilkeston Rugby Club play. They will each place a cross on the war memorial in remembrance of the 27 men of Hallam Fields who fell in the Great War. The ceremony will begin at 10am on Tuesday 10th November and will be attended by the British Legion. Members of the public are invited be present as well.
Ilkeston Life, November 2015
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The Friends of Straw’s Bridge
The Friends of Kirk Hallam Lake and Meadows Music Scene
The Friends are a small group of volunteers who maintain the area around the lake and meadows off Godfrey Drive, Kirk Hallam. The group was originally formed in 2007. About four years ago the group took over responsibility for the upkeep of the area and it has now become a tranquil, interesting and local beauty spot where local residents, visitors and families can relax and enjoy a peaceful stroll close to nature. During these last four years the group have worked tirelessly throughout all weathers to totally transform the area by clearing the lakeside and meadows. Members have been busy cutting back brambles, trees and bushes have been pruned and over 40 fruit trees have been planted. Thousand of spring flowering bulbs have been planted with the help of local schoolchildren and Pride in Erewash. Many species of wild flowers, butterflies and birds can now be spotted. Benches, and a wheelchair accessible picnic table, have been placed at strategic points around the lake, and all existing furniture has been stripped and repainted. The local Academy has been making bird boxes which have been placed
NUTBROOK PETANQUE CLUB
(French Boules) On Sunday 20th September we held our last in house competition of the year. Members are allocated points throughout the year depending on where they finish in our four annual competitions, the points going towards the overall Bill Grayson trophy. Competition has been fierce with Terry Spinks winning the Chairman's Shield in April, Danny Corns the Singles in June, Dave Thacker and Steve Murden the Doubles in June, and finally Mary Moore, Sheila Innes and Phil Allen winning the Triples in September. When points were totted up the overall winner of the Bill Grayson trophy was Roger Allen. We play every Tuesday and Sunday afternoons, weather permitting. Our piste is at the rear Nutbrook Cricket Club pavilion, High Lane East, West Hallam. We are a friendly and sociable group and welcome you to come and have a go. We can supply you with boules.
Jenny Thacker (Club Secretary) 0115 930 3770.
round the lake to encourage more birds to nest on site. Paths have been cleared and levelled making easy access for pushchairs, the less able and wheelchair users. There are also fishing pegs around the Lake giving seasoned fishermen, or young enthusiasts, the chance to follow their hobby in idyllic surroundings. Many community events take place throughout the year, culminating in a very successful Lakeside Festival in July. The first Festival was so popular it has now become a regular annual feature in the calendar. The next Lakeside Festival takes place on Sunday 3rd July, 2016, from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Organised wild life walks, bat, bird and butterfly watches have been organised in the past, and members currently contribute to the charity Butterfly Conservation’s transect butterfly count by walking a set route every week during the summer months. Volunteers are always needed, both to help with butterfly counts and with other activities, especially the regular work parties. Members can be seen on site every Wednesday and Sunday mornings working to transform this once neglected area into a wonderful green space. Regular litter picks are organised (and you even get refreshments) to help keep the area clean and tidy. Can you give a small amount of your time to help with this interesting and enjoyable work? It is a good way to enjoy the fresh air and you get a ‘work-out’ for free. The Committee meet about every 6 weeks and everyone is welcome to attend and become part of this worthwhile project. The Friends of Kirk Hallam Lake and Meadows have gained 1st Prize in the Erewash in Bloom Competition, in the ‘Best Street or Communal Area’ category in 2014. This was the second year the Group had gained first prize in this competition. We are hoping for a third success this year. Kirk Hallam Lake and Meadows with its concrete paths, picnic tables, and varied wildlife provides an ideal location for a pleasant stroll whether you be young, old or like us middle aged! Come and see for yourself. Enjoy the beauty of your local greenspace. Visit our website to find more: www.friendsofkirkhallamlake.btck.co.uk or look us up on Facebook or just drop into our next committee meeting on Monday 30th November at 6.30 pm in the Committee Room of the Sixth Form Building, Kirk Hallam Community Academy. Stop press! At the Erewash in Bloom Awards on Friday, 9 October , the Friends of Kirk Hallam Lake and Meadows were awarded First Prize for the third successive year in the Best Street, Communal Area and Friends Group category!
Esther Collington
14 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
HELLO FOLKS ! The musings of Ilson muso David Potter. “Hope I die before I get old”…the iconic words of the Pete Townshend song “My Generation” written for The Who in 1965 fifty, yes FIFTY years ago. He was 20 when he wrote those words and, far from fulfilling the wish he expressed, he found himself very much alive and well at 70 (sadly not the case with Keith Moon and John Entwistle) along side fellow original band member Roger Daltry performing at this year’s Glastonbury Festival. That was the set that featured an “Ilson Gnome” banner waving in the front row of an appreciative audience which included as many youngsters as it did ageing rock fans. MY Generation gap?...what gap ? I came across a T shirt the other day with the message: “I may be old but I got to hear the best bands” and this set me mugging up on what the album charts contained in 1965. Amongst the best sellers were Bob Dylan (this was the year he plugged in to shouts of “Judas” from the audience) The Beatles, Otis Redding, The Who, The Beach Boys, The Byrds, and The Rolling Stones. If you’ve got any memories of these or any other favourites …let me know. And talking of memories…I’m planning a feature on the Rock n Roll/ dance evenings that were held in the Co-op Ballroom (a. k. a. the Regency Rooms) during the 60’s/70’s. Be happy to hear any of your recollections. It was a pleasure to chat to an old colleague Alan Morley the other week who got in touch as a result of my popping up in September’s Ilkeston Life. Still living in Ilkeston, Alan has been involved for many years in the local and national music scene and is currently busy reconstructing his website which you can find on www.ukfolkmusic.co.uk You can listen to examples of Alan’s music on www.soundcloud.com/alan_morley and he’s also looking to talk to any musicians who would be interested in forming a band. Dates for your November diary include: Belper Folk Club. Sing a Rounds every Tuesday at the Old Kings Head, Days Lane, Belper. 8.30 p.m The Vernon Arms Folk and Acoustic Club every Tuesday at 21 Locko Rd. Spondon. 8.15 p.m (Guest on the 17th is Anthony John Clarke) Tiger Folk at the Stumble Inn, Tamworth Rd. Long Eaton. Monthly on Sundays. 8.00p.m. Guests for Dec. 6th are Benny Graham and Chuck Fleming. Contact dsutherland3@hotmail.com Be happy to publicise any of your local music, drama, arts events etc. so get in touch with me on this, or anything else, at davidilkeston@gmail.com or Tel: 0797 1899 704.
West Hallam Amateur Gardening Society
Green Flag is hoisted A large crowd assembled at Straw’s Bridge on Thursday 1st October to see the Mayor of Erewash, Councillor Val Custance, hoist the Green Flag with a little help from Dave Bramwell, head of Green Space and Street Scene at EBC. The ceremony was presided over by Councillor Mike Wallis, Lead Member for Culture and Leisure, and was attended by Councillors Carol Hart and Bruce Broughton. Also present was a group of operational staff from the Borough Council, the Friends of Straw’s Bridge and members of the public. Councillor Wallis thanked the Friends and the Council staff for the part they play in looking after the site and helping to make it worthy of the Green Flag Award. After a lengthy consultation process, which included a survey of the users of Straw’s Bridge and discussions with the Friends and local Councillors, EBC has decided that there will be no general permission for mobile catering facilities on the site. Such facilities might however be allowed in future to support community based events run by either the Council or the Friends. Late October has seen the Friends at work on site installing bird boxes for Tree Sparrows, Pied Wagtails, Blue Tits, Great Tits, Robins and Spotted Flycatchers. These fantastic nest boxes, made by Ted to his usual high standard, are custom built for particular species and perfect for firsttime buyers (flyers?). Fortunately the Straw’s Bridge birds can read otherwise Pied Wagtails and Robins, in particular, might end up in the wrong boxes. The next meeting of the Friends, to which all are welcome, is in the Community Room at Ilkeston Fire Station at 7pm on Thursday 19 November. Keep up to date on Facebook or by visiting www.friendsofstrawsbridge.co.uk . Richard Windsor from EBC can tell you more about this and other Friends groups (0115 907 2244 ext. 3887).
Jeff Wynch
included how to take cuttings and propagate, how to re-pot and protect during winter, different feeds and composts and the all important, correct watering. We were also What a treat we had when Malcolm Beer- shown how to do fuchsia topiary – quite a man came to our Garden Club in Septemchallenge for fuchsia fans. ber to talk about fuchsias. Malcolm exhib- Even those amongst us who are not fuchsia its at several shows, local and national, enthusiasts found the talk and demonstrathroughout the year and has won many tions interesting, and helpful, as much of prizes including Best In Show at the British Malcolm’s advice and many tips can be Fuchsia Society South Western Show in applied to other plants. The collection of 2014. small potted cuttings from the demonstraHe began his talk by explaining that alttion were added to our raffle so lots of prizhough fuchsias are free from most pests es were taken home that night. and diseases they do sometimes need pro- Our next meeting is on Monday 16th Notecting from vine weevil. He had brought vember when Sue Hayward will talk on along various remedies to show us and ex- Garden Design. Visitors and new members plained how and when they should be used. are always welcome to join us in the MethMalcolm then demonstrated, with the varie- odist Church Hall, High Lane at 7.30pm. ty of plants he had brought with him, the Jenny Edgson many aspects of growing fuchsias. This
Swimming
Team Ilkeston have a new sponsor Team Ilkeston is delighted to announce Digraph Transport Supplies Limited, the UK’s largest family owned commercial motor factor business, as their new main club sponsor. The locally based Eastwood business will also become the club kit sponsor. The traditional family business was first established in 1976 by current group chairman, Peter Rawson, and has grown to become one of the most successful independent commercial motor factor companies in the UK. Head coach, Rob Hudson said, “We are thrilled to be teamed up with Digraph in what will be an exciting future for both organisations. This will be the club’s first major sponsor which, will aid the development of the club and all of our swimmers; from the teaching and development squads through to those who are currently representing us in county and regional level competitions.” Last season was another exceptional year for the club after successfully capturing the Leicester League division two title, accomplishing the JC Dobb Trophy, and coming extremely close to taking the Jamie Rigby Trophy after narrowly finishing in second place by eight points. Swimmers excelled at county level and two swimmers made their first appearance in the Midland Championships after qualifying earlier in the year. In addition, three swimmers were selected to train with Derbyshire’s elite development squad which is a brilliant achievement. “We share many of the same core values and beliefs, and embrace their philosophy with the ‘whatever it takes’ ethos. We believe that it links in very well with what we are aiming to achieve at Team Ilkeston and have a strong belief that hard work conquers everything. We have huge ambitions for the future and we are looking forward to our partnership with Digraph”. ****
MATLOCK SUCCESS
SAM BATES TAKES CENTRAL ENGLAND BELT Trinity light heavy weight star Sam Bates is the new Central England novice belt holder after a hard fought battle with reigning champion Nick Cartwright of Sutton in Ashfield club, Empire. The belt was contested on the Benny's show at the Mellish sports centre, Bulwell. The Trinity star used his greater experience to out box and out punch the determined champion. The first two rounds were close with each man trying to impose himself but Sam didn't get involved in a brawl with the big punching champion and used good movement and counter punches to establish a lead. The final round saw the Trinity man establish a lead with sharp attacks and although the Sutton man continued to try to retain his grip on the belt, Sam pulled away to take a deserved unanimous points decision.
Local man’s sky fall for charity Tony Mason, from Kirk Hallam, completed a sponsored freefall parachute jump for Forces in the Community, descending from a height of 13,000 feet. £808.80 was raised for the charity which provides support and assistance to military veterans and the families in the local area. Pictures shows Tony falling in tandem with a member of the Red Devils Parachute Regiment Freefall Team.
November Walks Erewash Ramblers Sunday 1st, 10am, 9 miles. Selston and Brinsley. Meet at the Shepherds Rest Pub (SK466515, NG16 5HF). Leader: Brian Marshall. Thursday 5th, 10.30am, 5 miles. Riverside walk, Fiskerton. Meet at CP 150m from Bramley Arms (SK736513). Leader: John Harrison (07989 651787). Monday 9th, 10.30am, 7½ miles. Walk from Ashover. Meet at the Village Hall (SK350632, S45 0BA). Leader: Robert Mee (07757 134353). Wednesday 11th, 10.30am, Short Walk in Stanley Area. Meet at Stanley Village Hall (SK421408). Leader Joyce Mold. Sunday 15th, 10am, 7½ miles. Sherwood Forest Walk. Meet at Harlow Wood on A60 (SK550568, NG18 4TJ). Leader: John Harrison (07989 651787). Wednesday 18th, 7.30pm. Social: “The Sleeping Beauty - the Cromford Canal and its Restoration”, presented by Mike Kelley - West Hallam Village Hall. Thursday 19th, 10.30am, 6 miles. Foremark & Milton. Meet at Ticknall Village Hall (SK353241, DE73 7JW). Leader: Clive Davis (07808 238704).
Monday 23rd, 10.30am, 6 miles (lots of stiles). Kingston on Soar & West Leake. Meet at lay-by on Melton Lane, West of Star Inn. (SK522262, LE12 5RQ). Leader: Clive Davis (07808 238704). Wednesday 25th, 10.30am, Short Walk. Trent Meadows. Meet at Trent Meadows CP, Long Eaton (SK504327). Leader Sandie Jones. Sunday 29th, 10.00am, 8½ miles. Hemington, Lockington and EMA. Park on Diseworth Road, Castle Donnington (SK443263, DE74 2PS). Leader: Robert Mee. More information from: Tony Beardsley, 07989 314242
Ilkeston Rambling Club Sunday 1st: Stoney Middleton— Foolow, 11miles. Leader Mike Henshaw. Tuesday 3rd: Programme meeting. Sunday 15th: Park at Miniature Railway, Rudyard—Royal Oak at Rushton Spencer. 10 miles. Leader Alan Beaumont. Sunday 29th: Mystery walk led by Steve Palmer. More information from Jim Cresswell, 07747 419380
DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS SURGERY ILKESTON EAST, ILKESTON SOUTH AND ILKESTON WEST WARDS
COUNCILLORS MICHELLE BOOTH, GLENNICE BIRKIN AND JOHN FRUDD
Saturday 14th November 2015 10am to 12 noon Ilkeston Town Hall
Six Team Ilkeston swimmers were racing at the Derventio eXcel Open Meet in Matlock last weekend in what was the first open meet of the new season. The super six included; Leah Burgin-Rawson, Lewis Brown, Charlie Palmer, Lewis Wright, William Wright and William Foster. The event was of high quality and there were some storming races from some of the best swimmers in the UK. Lead coach, Kyle Hudson said, “The team of swimmers accumulated fifty-eight points to rank Team Ilkeston as tenth top club out of 35 teams from around the country. We were racing some of the UK’s leading clubs so, not only is it a fantastic achievement but, it has set a good foundation for the season ahead.” This was the first time that the majority of the swimmers had entered a Derventio meet. In total there were six top three placings; two gold and four silver medals. Medal winners were; Charlie Palmer (Silver in 50m and 100m Breaststroke), Lewis Wright (Gold in 50m and 100m Breaststroke, Silver in 50m Freestyle), and Leah BurginRawson (Silver in 200m Butterfly). Twenty-two personal bests times were logged and in the BAGCAT reports Lewis Brown finished second in the ten years boys category and Leah Burgin-Rawson finished in third place in the eleven years girls category. If you would like to find out more about Ilkeston Swimming Club, visit us online at www.ilkestonswimmingclub.co.uk
Robert Hudson Ilkeston Life, November 2015
15
Sport
JUST A THOUGHT The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step—Lao Tzu.
NEW ROBINS BOSS GETS OFF TO A FLYING START Andy Watson got off to a great start as the new man at the helm with big wins over Buxton and Stourbridge. In both games, the Robins came from behind to take the points. He was delighted with the way his side responded in both second halves with ‘energy and spirit’. It took the run to six matches unbeaten and the team is climbing up the league. < IN Andy Watson, promoted to interim head coach OUT > Gavin Strachan who left to join Doncaster Rovers Despite applying almost constant pressure, Ilkeston could not score a winner. Michael Williams was the danger man but some Ilkeston 0 Colwyn Bay 0 great saves by the Bay keeper earned the Ilkeston and Colwyn Bay fought out a goal- Welshmen a point. Ilkeston were hoping less draw after the visitors had a man sent for an attendance boost with it being ‘Non off in the first half. Archie Love was League Day’ and the ‘big boys’ not playshown the red car after clattering into Ilkes- ing, but only 534 were there—only slightly ton’s Joe Burgess who had only just reabove average for a Saturday game. turned after an injury layoff.
Keeper keeps it goalless
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MATCHMAN REPORTS
Super team performance lifts Ilkeston into top six Stourbridge 1 Ilkeston 2 Ilkeston followed up their best home performance against Buxton with probably their best away performance at in-form Stourbridge. The home side were unbeaten in their last seven league games and they took the lead through Ben Billingham on 28 minutes with a deflected shot. This was after injured Jordan Wheatley had to be replaced by Charlie Coulson. Ilkeston took control in the second half. Marcus Harness gave a glimpse of things to come when he went on a brilliant dribble and hit the Stourbridge post. The deserved equaliser came from Daniel Udoh on 64 minutes. Dexter Atkinson then put Ilkeston ahead after 75 minutes with what proved to
be the winner. Stourbridge threw men forward in the closing stages but Ilkeston’s defence held firm. The Robins have now gone six games unbeaten with four wins and two draws. This was an excellent performance by the whole team with Joe Doyle outstanding at the back and Dexter Atkinson showing in only his second game what a good acquisition he is. For caretaker manager Andy Watson, it was two wins in two games. And the recent points tally meant Ilkeston surged from the bottom half to sixth place in the league. After the game the West Midlands club sportingly tweeted: “No complaints. The better team won.”
Hot-shot Williams powers Ilkeston to thrilling win over county rivals Ilkeston 3 Buxton 1 Ilkeston fans stood and loudly applauded their team off at the end of this match. The players responded by going over to the fans at the back of the clock tower goal and applauding them for the part they had played. This was the sort of game to win back dispirited supporters. Ilkeston, a goal behind at half time, staged a great fightback to beat their high-flying Derbyshire neighbours. Buxton, a strong and pitch-wise team, skilled in art of subtle nudges, looked as if they were going to edge this game when they took the lead through Bradley Baraclough in 32 minutes The number 10 was among a wave of players running in together to meet a cross from the left. His header gave Ross Durrant, who had had little to do before that, no chance of saving. Whatever new interim head coach Andy Watson said to his team at half time, it did the trick. We kept hearing shouts of “Keep doing the right thing”, and the Robins kept plugging away despite receiving some hard knocks.
Ilkeston, too, had some tenacity in the person of Michael Williams. Ever willing to get stuck in and go where it hurts, he gave his side hope with a powerful shot that found the net with the help of a slight deflection. This 61st minute strike followed a wonderful save by the Bucks keeper Phil Barnes moments earlier. Nine minutes later, Ilkeston were ahead through Williams again, this time a brave thumping header beating Barnes. With ten minutes to go, Ilkeston debutant Dexter Atkinson was racing clear when he was brought down in the box and Williams had the chance to complete a hat-trick. However, his spot-kick was beaten out by Barnes. But the alert Atkinson crowned an impressive performance by following up to head in. 3-1. What a luxury scoreline! Buxton were not finished but Ilkeston were not going to let them back in the game. Most of the 494 spectators were happy, and this must go down as the Robins’ performance of the season so far.
Penalty wins it
Ilkeston RUFC tour side thank sponsors
and KLG Amazing Glazing. Additionally the team were extremely lucky to receive generous backing from County Councillors John Frudd and Michelle Booth who donated a combined total of £900 towards the tour transport costs from their Derbyshire County Council Community Leadership Scheme funds.
Ilkeston RUFC U-16s (now the U-17s) recently toured North Yorkshire to play sides from Malton & Norton RUFC and Scarborough RUFC. The team’s tour kit was funded thanks to the most generous sponsorship from the following organisations: Unite Councillor Frudd is pictured handing over the cheque to players (from L to R) Harry Walton, the Trade Union, Smart Digital Business Cameron Greenfield and Jordan Pritchett. Solutions, Liniar Profiles, Optimation Ltd,
16 Ilkeston Life, November 2015
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Ilkeston 1 Barwell 0 A second half penalty award gave Ilkeston the chance to beat Barwell on a rain-soaked NMG. Liam Marshall duly obliged to give the Robins a second win in three days following a run of seven games without a win. It seemed Ilkeston would never pierce the strong visitors’ defence, but in the 81st minute Charles Weston was brought down just inside the area, right in front of the referee. Marshall crashed his shot into the net to the delight of his teammates and Ilkeston fans, including famous son, actor Robert Lindsay. The Leicestershire side had edged the first half, but the Robins showed their defensive capabilities and gave a more assured performance in the second half. Nevertheless Barwell were always a threat and gave Ilkeston some nervy moments in the closing stages. Keeper Ross Durrant distinguished himself with good handling of the slippery ball.
Liam Marshall scores from the penalty spot against Barwell. Photo: Craig Lamont
ner. Ilkeston pressed for an equaliser and it finally came from Daniel Udoh on 42 minutes. Williams swung in a precise cross and Udoh headed home. Ilkeston thought they had equalised just before that but a tight offside decision went against them. The second half saw Ilkeston dominate but they were Stamford 1 Ilkeston 1 thwarted time and again by Knight. Stamford Ilkeston were denied a win by Stamford’s made a concerted effort to get the winner in keeper Richard Knight who was deservedly the final moments but when Ilkeston broke given the Man of the Match accolade. It was away It was Knight again who pulled off anStamford who went ahead on 17 minutes with other brilliant save from Williams to earn his an excellent finish by Shariff who beat Ross side a point. Ilkeston fans couldn’t believe Durrant with a dipping shot into the top corthe ball hadn’t gone in.