Ilkeston Life Newspaper September 2015

The news you’ve been waiting for -

A new paper for our community

You asked for it—a paper dedicated to the place where you live, a paper reflecting all that is going on in town and around, a paper that’s interested in your news, reporting the little things that mean a lot to you, as well as the more important happenings.

A friend through your letterbox

20p where sold

SEPTEMBER 2015

A community publication for Ilkeston and the surrounding districts including Kirk Hallam, Cotmanhay, Shipley View and West Hallam Visit our website: ilkestonlife.com

Storm troopers hit town These Star Wars characters were among thousands of visitors to Ilkeston town centre last month for the Heritage and Classic Vehicle Show organised by Erewash Partnership.

More pictures inside.

TRIBUTES TO RESPECTED TRADER Town shocked by sudden death of Alan Brown

Tributes poured in to our Facebook page when we announced the unexpected death of South Street shopkeeper Alan Brown, who collapsed while playing football. Alan, aged 57 years, had traded at Blinkinks computer supplies and repair shop for the past nine years.

Alan Brown Obituary—page 9

Online words of appreciation included: Jonathan Wilson: RIP and best thoughts to his family. He was a really nice guy and extremely helpful when I had questions about my PC. Carol Kelly-Winson: What a shock. A lovely man. He'd go out of his way to help and even though he didn't stock the laser printer I was looking for he told me the best one to buy and I really appreciated his advice and bought it and it's brilliant. Condolences to his family.

Mick Pollard: Alan was a top man at his job, always very pleasant, nothing was too much trouble. Condolences to all his family. XXX Ann Featherstone: A great loss. He was always cheerful and kind. I hope his family know how much he was liked and respected.

Patricia Ann Bullock: How sad!! What a lovely man Alan was. He will be sorely missed! Condolences to the family and friends.

Liam Trusswell: RIP Alan, so sad. Thinking of his family. X Gill Creswell: RIP Alan. Such very sad news. Always service with a smile! X Steven Michael Pape: Nice kind man. was always very helpful. sad loss. x R.I.P. Chris Hallam: Sad news, always good to me.

When Ilkeston Life magazine was launched in 2012, its stated aim was to raise the profile of the town and to highlight all that’s good.

brought a touch of fun and fame to the traffic island on Nottingham Road.

Our corner of Derbyshire may be labelled by some as ‘deprived’, ‘boring’, ‘a ghost town’ and ‘an unemployment hotspot’ but most people who live here are part of a vibrant, caring community with varied interests. They are good neighbours and give of their time freely to help others.

If you belong to a group and would like to see it featured in this paper, please get in touch. We’d also like to hear your stories of local unsung heroes, good neighbours, good deeds, local childhood memories, sporting successes and village happenings.

If it’s interesting to you, it’s interesting to us!

Ilkeston is the home of Erewash Sound, a growing community radio station, the Now, exactly three years later, it has home of Erewash Museum, an award winevolved into a newspaper, and its intention ning tourist attraction, and of course the is the same. We want to trumpet the suc- home of the famous and historic Ilkeston cesses of our area.

Charter Fair.

Ilkeston has a lot to be proud of. We have an ambitious football team in Ilkeston FC who just failed to win promotion last season. We have some great businesses, shops and eating places. We have lively churches, groups, clubs and societies doing great work in our community.

Your Space was a popular page for readers’ poems, short stories, puzzles etc., in the magazine, and we’re keen to see it continue in the paper. Share your creative writing with a bigger audience!

We look forward to receiving a contribuVictoria Park and Straw’s Bridge Nature tion from YOU for the next issue!

Reserve have recently been awarded Green Good luck messages—page 4.

Flag status, and the ‘Ilson Gnome’ has

Print run of 10,000 copies distributed locally—outstanding coverage for advertisers

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 from various places including: U Choose Smoothie Bar, 1 Bath Street, Ilkeston; John’s News, 17 Bath Street; Ilkeston Coffee Bean, 156 Bath Street, Ilkeston; Blinkinks, 48 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: Paul Opiah paul@ilkestonlife.com Dale Forbes-Sutherland dale@ilkestonlife.com Maria Cocking maria@ilkestonlife.com Pete Clay pete@ilkestonlife.com Sue Woollard sue@ilkestonlife.com 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.

Printed by

2 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

My Ilkeston by Patricia Spencer Ilkeston, affectionately known as ‘Ilson’ by its residents, is my town. I was born in Nottingham but have lived all my life in Ilkeston, never moving more than ten minutes away from the family home on Greenwood Avenue.

Ilkeston is one of the few places left where you will still hear the East Midlands dialect being used. Where they still greet their friends with, “Ey up me duck.”

It certainly is not the prettiest town in Derbyshire, far from it. But it stands on a lofty hill overlooking the beautiful Erewash valley. No matter what road you take out of town it is only a few minutes to open countryside.

The Nutbrook walking and cycling trail winds its way through Ilkeston, some of it on the route of the pit trains which transported the coal from the various coal mines that were once one of Ilkeston’s main industries along with lace making and of course Stanton Ironworks.

All but the lace making is now gone from Ilkeston and Ilkeston is now much cleaner perhaps, but a poorer place without them.

When I was a girl in the sixties, there was always work for everyone who wanted to work. Those days most people did want to work. In fact they had to work, or they did not eat.

Founded in the 6th century AD, Ilkeston was first called Tilchestune, after a chieftan named Elchun. It was to be found in the Doomsday Book in 1086 under this name.

In 1252 it was deemed big enough to be granted a Royal charter from King Henry III for a weekly market and an annual Fair.

These have both survived to the present day.

The Annual Charter Fair is older than the Nottingham Goose Fair, and it is one of the largest street fairs in the country. Indeed in Europe! In 2015 the Fair will celebrate its 763rd year and is always well worth a visit. The Fair is always held two weeks after Goose Fair in the month of October.

Having been to most of these annual fairs in my sixty-seven years, I can tell you the weather can be anything from sunny and warm to freezing cold winds and pouring rain. I do not think in my time it has snowed, but there could be time yet.

Some Ilkeston residents hate it, but the majority love it. There are always new babies to take in their pushchairs to see the lights - toddlers for Grannie and Grandad to take on the smaller rides - schoolchildren to take on the Big Horses. This was always my favourite ride as my dad used to take me on them from being very little. I used to sit in front of him on the horse as it galloped round and round.

Then as the children grew there would be teenagers going alone for the first time to meet up with their mates. It is great family fun for all with a cacophony of noise and laser lights to light up the night sky for miles around.

Our Market, still an outdoor market, still in the same place as when I was a girl, isn’t what it was. It used to be chocker block with stalls. My favourite stalls were the second hand book and comic stall where mum and I used to go every week to exchange her romantic fiction and my Superman/Spiderman comics for a few pence

A quiet Sunday summer evening on the Market Place a time. And the fabric stall where I used to buy threepenny bundles to make my doll a new dress. Nowadays there are many gaps between the stalls selling fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, bread, cake, cards, plants, and fashion and the atmosphere does not feel the same to me. I guess that is just an age thing.

It is good that it is still there, after all these centuries and that the stall holders, still want to ply their trades out in the open no matter the weather.

Steadfastly guarding our Market Place is our oldest building, St Mary’s church. St Mary’s was built in the 12th century.

When it was first built it had a lead covered steeple, which was destroyed in a hurricane in 1714. This was then replaced by the tower we have now in 1731. The knave of the church was extended out towards the market place in 1909. How many christenings, marriages and funerals has this church presided over the centuries? My mum and dad were married there as was my youngest daughter.

The only form of transport at the moment out of Ilkeston, if you haven’t got your own transport, is the local buses.

Back in 1773 communication links were beginning to appear with the Erewash Canal route from Nutbrook to Nottingham on the narrow boats. In 1829 the first long distance coach, “The Spectacular” made its journey from Ilkeston to Nottingham and later in 1853 the Erewash Valley Railway was constructed. This facilitated the rapid growth of the main industries in the area, coal and lace. The population grew rapidly from 2,000 in 1800 to 19,000 in1891. The population of Ilkeston in 2001 was 37,500. Yet the last of our three railway stations in Ilkeston was shut in l967.

The closure of this last line left the mag-

nificent wrought iron structure of the Bennerley Viaduct, 443m long by l9m high, standing isolated and alone in the verdant green pastures of the Erewash Valley.

There have been a few attempts to get back a rail link from our town, and now it seems it is about to happen—despite the Newts.

Back in 1831 the railway brought in many customers for the famous Ilkeston Spa Baths situated at the end of Town Street and attached to the Rutland Hotel. This is where Ilkeston’s main Street, gets its name, Bath Street.

Thomas Potter had the Baths built and they were popular around the time of the Harrogate and Bath spas. Just before the 1900 they lost their popularity when people got worried about contamination from the proximity of local mining activities.

Ilkeston has had its share of Royal visits over the years. On the 28th June 1914 King George V and Queen Mary came to visit for their Silver Jubilee and the Vauxhall Gardens were opened. The Vauxhall Gardens were used for many events such as the Circus, Balloon descents, and Firework displays.

The King and Queen visited Shipley Hall when they came to Ilkeston. My husband’s great grandfather had the honour of opening the gate for their carriage when they arrived.

The Miller Mundy family owned Shipley Hall at the time and also Shipley colliery.

This was just one of the many collieries around, and the main source of employment for most men in the area, up until the 1960s when the closures began.

My grandfather, Percy Brown was a collier and so were most of his sons. My grandfather also worked tirelessly for the community of Ilkeston and was rewarded by becoming Mayor of Ilkeston in 1961.

More next month

Details of the Aviva Tour of Britain route through Erewash on stage six of this year’s race have been confirmed – and it includes an exciting sprint section in the borough.

Some of the world’s top cyclists will be taking part in the internationally-renowned Tour and will race into our area on Friday 11th September during the 189km stage from Stoke through to Nottingham.

The riders are expected to reach Erewash early afternoon along the A609 into Stanley Common, with the lead car due to arrive around 2.35pm and the main pack around 2.50pm The race will continue through West Hallam with the thrilling sprint section taking place on the A609 High Lane East alongside Straw’s Bridge Nature Reserve.

Organisers expect a big-turnout at this site to watch the sprint finish and spectators are being advised to be in place by 1.15pm to have a chance to see and cheer on the riders as they hurtle through.

Supporters can also see the riders as they continue along Derby Road to the White Lion Square roundabout and then speed out of the borough on the A609 Nottingham Road to their final destination at Notting-

ham’s Forest Recreation Ground.

Students from the Kirk Hallam Community Academy have already pledged to cheer on the world famous cyclists when they pass the academy on High Lane East / Derby Road during the sprint section of the race.

Councillor Mike Wallis, Erewash Borough Council’s Lead Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “We are very honoured to have the Tour of Britain passing through our borough and we want to ensure that we give the world’s best riders a very warm Erewash welcome. Let’s go cycle crazy and turn out in force to cheer on the world’s most famous cyclists – and we would also encourage supporters to organise a celebration event for the occasion.”

Anyone organising a local event in support of the Tour can contact the council’s Sport and Leisure team - organisers should email details of their local event to jan.oldham@erewash.gov.uk and can request flags to help cheer on the tour’s cycling superstars.

For all the latest details of the timings and the route of the Aviva Tour of Britain 2015 visit www.tourofbritain.co.uk

Torpedoed on the Lusitania—Ilkeston’s Laura Martin

By Grant Shaw Readers might remember the commemorations earlier this year of the centenary of the sinking of the passenger liner Lusitania, the pride of the Cunard fleet which was torpedoed by German Uboat U-20 on Friday 7th May 1915 about eleven miles off the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse, south-western Ireland.

This led me to wonder if any local people had been caught up in the disaster. Not surprisingly, there are many web pages dedicated to the Lusitania tragedy and a morning’s work revealed that Ilkeston born Laura Martin was on board and, happily, survived. Here is an extract from the ‘Retford, Gainsborough and Worksop Times / Newark and Mansfield Weekly News’, 11th June 1915: “From Ilkeston, Mrs. Laura Martin emigrated to the United States with her husband, Albert, in early 1914. When her husband died the following August, she made plans to return home. She took passage on the Lusitania.

‘When the vessel was torpedoed, I was in a third-class cabin with another woman, who was nursing a baby, when there came a crash, which shattered the mirror of the cabin. I jumped up, crying, ‘My God! What’s that?’ Hurrying from the cabin I saw droves of people rushing forward, and I called to them to help me. I was picked up and put into a boat, which was packed and was, eventually landed in Queenstown.’

She saw one boatload of women and children break-up as it was being lowered. Screams and cries of "Save us! Save us!" were described as heart-rending.”

Laura was then 54 years old, having been born in Ilkeston in 1861 to father Charles Trueman. She married Albert Martin on 2nd February 1884 at Cotmanhay Parish Church.

The 1891 census shows them living at 189 Awsworth Road with children Harriett (10 years) and Charles Amos (4 years). Albert is a Coal Miner, born in Marlpool in about 1860. 1901 finds them at 2 Burleigh Street, without children. The 1911 census does not mention children either, which is odd as it was the first to be filled out by the house-

holder, asks whether any children of the marriage have died and has been signed by Albert himself.

The Martins, by then in their early 50’s, decided to emigrate to the United States due to Albert’s ill health (they had relatives in Philadelphia, Ohio) and arrived in early 1914. Sadly, Albert (de-scribed in one of the reports as ‘a capable pianist’) died that August and is pretty certainly the Albert Martin who is buried in East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia, Tuscarawas County, Ohio.

His widow decided to come home during wartime, and took passage as a third class passenger in the Lusitania. Laura was one of two people from Ilkeston known to have been on the Lusitania that day; the other, Walter Potter died in the tragedy.

The Ilkeston Advertiser interviewed Laura when she arrived back in Ilkeston ‘minus hat and with nothing except the clothes she stood up in’ at her sister’s house at 2 Cromwell Avenue, Ilkeston. She said that she ‘had never been favourably impressed with America, American customs, people and way of living’ so had decided to return to Ilkeston on her husband’s death. ‘Four times she went to book her passage, and the man in charge, who knew her, begged her to postpone her trip’ due to the dangers of crossing the Atlantic during wartime.

However, she eventually boarded the Lusitania in ‘gloriously fine’ weather and shared a cabin with several other women, one of whom had a baby with her. When the torpedo hit, Laura was lying down in the cabin. She made her way up to the deck and was helped into a lifeboat while the ship listed alarmingly. She saw one woman sucked into the funnel, but this lady managed to swim out and ‘came out all black’.

The boat became overloaded and she was transferred into a trawler which eventually landed them at Dublin. Mrs Lewis T. Thompson, wife of the American Consul, lent Laura one shilling and sixpence and a hat and she was landed at Birkenhead and made her way back to Ilkeston after ‘a long and trying journey’.

Laura, who did not remarry, lived to the age of 80 and died at Ilkeston in early 1941.

ACROSS: 1. Ilkeston’s Catholic Church is on — Street (6) 4. — Court is in Cotmanhay (6) 5. Allowed (6) 7. Always in plentiful supply on Ilkeston market (6).

DOWN: 1. Whistle blower at the NMG (3) 2. Night time feature of old Ilkeston (3, 4) 3. Necessary (7) 6. Shortened first name (3).

Answers:

People urged to cheer them on

An Ilkeston Crossword Puzzle

Across: 1. Regent, 4. Fisher, 5. Lawful, 7. Apples.

Down: 1. Ref, 2. Gas lamp, 3. Needful, 6. Les.

Tour of Britain cyclists to race through town

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Ilkeston Life, September 2015

3

Fingers crossed as work on Ilkeston railway station is set to start again The delayed building of Ilkeston’s railway station is scheduled to begin about now.

It was initially given the go-ahead in 2013 and had been expected to be in operation by now, but first great crested newts, then flooding fears, caused the project to be put on hold.

Great crested newts are a protected species, so when they were found at the site work was halted while they were moved elsewhere.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin described the delay as "frustrating".

Later, concern over the possibility of flooding in the proposed car park meant plans had to be adjusted to satisfy the strict requirements of the Environment Agency.

Work was required to raise the car park by three metres and build drains and culverts to alleviate flooding in extreme weather.

This additional work added £3million to the cost of the station, which meant it was no longer affordable. So savings had to found elsewhere.

The solution was shorter platforms and modified car parking arrangements. There will be two car parks. The main one, for 90 cars, will be on the east side of the tracks next to Coronation Road.

On the west side of Station Street, there will be a separate parking area for disabled drivers, motorcycles and bicycles, a taxi rank and drop off and pick up point closer to the station platforms.

Buses already run past the station site but new waiting shelters will be provided.

Then in July it was revealed that the cost

of the delayed work had gone up again by over half a million pounds. Derbyshire County Council agreed to stump up the extra cash.

Councillor Dean Collins, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, said: “It’s good news that we can now start to build the station. We know it’s been frustrating for everyone that we have not been able to start sooner, but now earlier issues have been resolved and the funding is all in place we now know we have an affordable project.”

Ilkeston is one of the largest towns in the UK without a railway station.

The town once had three stations— Ilkeston Town, Ilkeston North and Ilkeston Junction (the latter becoming the site of the proposed new station on land between Coronation Road and Millership Way).

The last station closed in 1967 as a result of the Beeching Report, published in 1963.

The new station, part-funded from the government's New Station Fund, will link Ilkeston with Nottingham, Chesterfield and Sheffield.

Ilkeston is one of four towns to win Government cash to help build a new station.

Around two thirds of the overall costs £6.374m – will come from the Department for Transport’s New Station Fund.

Derbyshire County Council, which is leading on the project in partnership with Network Rail, the Department for Transport and train operators Northern Rail and East Midlands Trains, is contributing around £2.2m.

Dismay over plan to close Hillcrest As we went to press, a public meeting was due to be held regarding the future of the Hillcrest Care Home in Kirk Hallam.

Hillcrest is one of five homes for older people that Derbyshire County Council is proposing to close. Staff at the home on Kenilworth Drive look after 23 residents, all with some level of dementia.

Anyone with an interest or a view was invited to go along and have their say.

Two doctors from the Littlewick Medical Centre have already spoken out against the plan. Dr Patrick Halls and Dr Gail Watson said they rated the home as ‘one of the best’ where the staff get on very well with the residents and understand their needs.

Dr Halls said: “As the care homes co-ordinator among the partners at Littlewick, I have been immensely impressed by the care and the detailed knowledge that the staff at Hillcrest offer the clients and also the effective management of Sue Jowett, the current manager. I have to say that I have not always found such care and such high standards elsewhere.”

Concluding, both doctors said they hoped Derbyshire County Council would think again and keep the home open, instead of putting the residents through the ‘upsetting’ ordeal of moving.

Jay ‘Jaffas’ Jeffery of Kirk Hallam began a Facebook campaign when he heard of the proposal. He urged all his friends to sign a petition against it.

Jay told our reporter: “It should stay open because it’s been there all these years and it would be a shame to move all the residents at their time in life.”

Good luck

with the paper

I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to say ‘Good Luck’ to the Ilkeston Life newspaper and wish it all the best for the future. I have been reading the magazine for many months and always look forward to reading about what is happening in our area.

I hope the town’s businesses and residents give their full support to this new and local venture. Once again, my best wishes for the future and I look forward to reading many more editions of Ilkeston Life.

Cllr Val Custance, Erewash Mayor.

Ilkeston is a great community and I am sure Ilkeston Life will be a very welcome addition for residents. This newspaper will provide a monthly focal point for 'all things Ilkeston’, whether it's news, sport, a round-up of local events and even some nostalgia. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to read the newspaper as well as support it by contributing articles or advertising in it. Good luck to everyone involved and I wish you every success with Ilkeston Life. Maggie Throup, MP. ***** Just to wish you the best of luck with your new venture, although I must admit that I ***** did like the A5 format. I am looking forI would like offer my best wishes for the ward to seeing your first issue. Tony new launch of Ilkeston Life and every suc- Beardsley, Erewash Ramblers Chairman. cess for the future. It is an exciting time ****** for the launch of the new newspaper with We wish you all the best with this imIlkeston seeing some success from recent portant link for Ilkeston people. Thanks regeneration initiatives and work due to for giving us the privilege of being in your start on the new Ilkeston railway station. first issue. Scott Rafferty, Trinity ABC. As a subscriber to the old Ilkeston Life magazine I have enjoyed reading about Hallcroft School although my loyalties lie From the Ilkeston Life team: with Ilkeston Grammar. Whichever school we went to, it is always interesting to read Thank you to everyone who has about the goings-on and the characters of encouraged us with this venture: to which Ilson seems to have more than its provide the town we love with a fair share. new voice and an interesting read I’m sure Ilkeston Life will be a hit with to look forward to every month. local readers and look forward to its new format going from strength to strength. Although we are all volunteers, we Cllr Chris Corbett, Leader, Erewash Bor- think we have come up with a deough Council cent product which will appeal to a ****** wide audience. This is a communiI am thrilled to see the Ilkeston Life go ty paper and we want to involve as large! I hope new and regular readers will many local people as we can, either continue to enjoy the varied and good news stories about Ilkeston for a long in the gathering of the content or time. Wishing the editorial team good its distribution. luck in this exciting community project. Many thanks to those who have Michelle Booth, Derbyshire County Coun- contributed stories, pictures, incillor for Ilkeston West. formation and puzzles for the first ***** issue and to the advertisers who We would like to wish Ilkeston Life newspaper good luck with their new venture. had the faith to support us.

We look forward to having the opportuni- Now it’s over to you. Let us know ty to find out what is happening locally. what you think.

Action4Cotmanhay.

The Hillcrest home in Kirk Hallam

4 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

Call in to The Foot Centre at Camomile to arrange your consultation 63 South Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 5QT Tel: 0115 932 1349

Boy got his bike back and I got a box of chocolates

by Geoff Hayes It was a Saturday afternoon in the mid-1990s and my wife June and I had returned to Ilkeston following a bit of shopping in Kimberley.

I drove up the small drive to our house. It was about 4.30pm. I lifted up the boot of the car to unload the shopping and as I did so noticed a boy of about 15 outside Hosker’s wall standing quite still and gazing straight up the avenue with a forlorn look on his face.

Being nosey as usual, I shouted over to him, “Have you lost something, Sonny?”

He walked over to me. “Yes, I have,” he replied. “A man and a girl have pushed me off my bike and ridden away with it.”

I was immediately concerned for the lad. “How long ago?” I asked.

“About five minutes,” he replied.

Straight away, I shut the boot of the car. “Hang on a sec,” I told him and dashed inside the house, told June what had happened and rushed back outside.

“Hop in.” I told the young lad, “We’ll go and try and find them – they can’t be far.”

We dashed up Larklands Post Office and up to White Lion Square.

“No luck,” I said, “we’ll nip back down to the cemetery.” I turned around and came scooting back as quick as I could.

I drove down Cantelupe Road and, hey presto, they were there – a man and a girl walking with a bicycle. I drove past them and pulled in. I jumped out, and when they saw me coming they threw the bike down and ran.

I tried giving chase but having a fused ankle, I just couldn’t even

get near them. Nevertheless – success – for there was the bike.

The lad’s face lit up in utter joy and relief. As he picked it up, I exclaimed: “Why, it’s brand new!”

“I know,” the lad replied. “It was my birthday present and today was my first day out on it.”

I followed him home and he gave me a final farewell wave at his gate.

I went home feeling pretty pleased with how things had turned out. It had taken less than half an hour and the situation had been resolved.

After a cup of tea or two, I drove to Kirk Hallam to pick up my sister, Pat. I brought her home for tea, sandwiches and an hour’s conversation.

At about 7pm there was a furious knocking at the door. My sister

jumped up and said, “I’ll see to it, Geoff.”

She came back to tell me there was a lady wanting to speak to me.

I went to the door to find it was the young lad and his mother.

She said: “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did this afternoon.

You’ll never know how much.

I’ve only just finished paying for the bicycle. Thank you, thank you.”

She was so worked up she was crying.

Suddenly she leaned forward and gave me a big kiss on my cheek.

With that, they were gone.

She had shoved a large box of chocolates into my hand.

I shouted, “Good night lady, it was my pleasure.”

How grand it was to help someone.

Ilkestonian Geoff Hayes has been writing some stories of his life.

Honest and reliable delivery people sought. Could you help us deliver Ilkeston Life newspaper to homes near you? If you are currently not getting a copy through your letterbox, would you consider taking a bundle for your street? You can pick up from our office at 1 Bath Street, or we may be able to drop them off for you. No one gets paid but you would be doing your neighbours a good turn. Email ilkestonlife@gmail.com

Story in Ilson

dialect

By Jim Sumner

Asta ever 'ad thi fingers in a mersetrap?'

Fost class ar took on me own warat Granby Junior Scowl. A worner a qualified taycher cos a wa weetin' to goo to Taycher Trainin' College but Derbyshire gen may a job as an unqualified taycher an' thi paid me a small amernt to dow this. It suited both on us - ar wa lonnin' mi job in th' classroom an' it gen me a good insight into what to dow. Thi put me wi an experienced taycher an' the idea wor that ay'd show may er to goo on.

Burrit it didner quite goo 'ow I expected it tow....

Th’fost mornin’ theer, the class taycher set some wok forrem to dow an’ ay said to may: “Mr Sumner, arve got to goo to the stockroom to get some books forrem to wok in – ar shall only bay abert five minutes, you’re in charge till a get back.

Kayp an eye on all on ’em.”

Ar replied, “Rayt enough.”

Ten minutes went by, then another ten went by. A stood by the door that wa oppen an’ ar ’ad a good view of the stockroom. As I was lookin’ I could say tobacca smoke commin’ erta the winders o’ the stockroom, an’ it didner tay may long to realise that this experienced taycher worna dowing any wok at all.

Abert a minute later a saw a yewth playin’ wi summat under the desk, so a tewd this yewth ta gee to may worray wa pleein’ wi – which ay did – it werra mersetrap. The trubble wor it wa set an’ the spring flicked over and caught tow a thray a mi fingers.

The pain wa excruciatin’ - ’ow a didner squeal ert lerd ar shall never know but a gritted mi teeth an’ carried on.

When playtime comm a kept ’im be’ind an’ ’ad a ‘quiet wod wi’im. The experience taycher saymed ta tay all mornin’ geein’’is books ert an’ worner much good at all.

Funnily enough, ar took this class for PE an’ games for a lotta lessons an’ they loved it. The class taycher preferred may to dow it an’ ar struck up a real bond wi’ most on ’em. A showed ’em er ta bat an’ bowl an’ a lot a new games as well.

The yewth who tried ta play the trick on me with the mersetrap couldn’t do enough to ’elp – way got on really well together.

A started a football team which did well an’ lots of parents comm to ’elp.

Then ar ’ad ta goo ta College for tow years ta get mi teachers diploma. By the time ar’d qualified an’ gone back to Granby, a lot o’ the ones ar’d taught ’ad either moved on or wa in their final year. Ar’d made a lot of friends at Granby an’ some on ’em comm back ta say me. Ar stayed theer fer abert six years before movin’ on.

IT’S YOUR LIFE...

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Share it with other Ilkeston Life readers.

Next month: The class trip to Wembley

INTERESTED IN LOCAL FOOTBALL? Ilkeston FC Supporters Group www.ifcsg.co.uk

Ilkeston Life, September 2015

5

Extracts from the diaries of our Church friends…

get their claws stuck in them and they kept letting go too. No idea why, it’s far more fun if you do it my way, so I tried to nip up to show them how to do it properly, but the two chaps standing by the book trolley waved to me, so meowing loudly I went to see them. On my way through the porch a familiar and wonderful smell filled my Dear Diary, nostrils, no not the warm sausage rolls but something else warm – the smell of a little Why, oh why, oh why does it rain? For me mouse! Where was it, I love playing with to jump in puddles and get wet and dirty! mice but they seem to like to play chase as Hurray, I love the rain, and all the other they always run away from me. Anyhow I cats just stay in at the Vicarage and go to couldn’t see any mice, so off I went to for a sleep, but it’s such fun. fuss with the old chaps.

Today was even more fun than usual. I And as I got closer what should I smell noticed there were more people around today at Church so I decided to explore and again, but that lovely fragrance of little mouse, but stronger and it was coming see what’s going on, and to show off my new pretty sparkling collar— it’s got a new from the two chaps, no, no it was coming from their feet. Surely not, no, another disk on it too, which reads ‘Florence is deep breath and I located the smell to under DEAF’. Not sure what that means but it’s time to explore, not time to think. Honest- the book trolley – aaaah. So I sat and waitly, it wasn’t just the smell of the warm sau- ed, and waited but nothing happened.

Sometimes I feel like I’m missing out on sage rolls that I was following, but it was something, but I don’t know what. the Vicar as she walked over to church carrying them. The people seemed happier Anyhow the people had their fun playing than usual; the Church had some small with the ropes and came back down the fluttering red, white and blue flags around tiny stairs to join the old chaps, and soon the doorway, and a huge one flapping in the Vicar came, and she looked surprised to the wind from the top of the tower – I’ve see me, I’ve no idea why. I’m sure, it says not been up there – yet! in Church ‘Preach the Gospel to every creature’. I like coming to Church, I can Well after a few minutes, several of the meow as loud as I like, jump between the people climbed those tiny stone steps that curve round, and they appeared in the bell pews and get lots of fuss. But, dear diary, tower. I like the bell tower as there are real- she picked me up and took me back to the Vicarage, leaving on the carpet all those ly, really, big bits of string to jump up at and get my claws suck in, then I swing all crumbs from the warm sausage rolls that I around as I pull my claws out – it’s a great could have helped to clear up –yummy. place to have fun – if you’re a cat. The Now I wonder what will happen to them? people up there must like it too, as I saw And to those mice? them pulling the ropes too, but they didn’t

Florence the Vicarage Cat

OPEN DAY On Saturday September 12th St Mary’s, the church in the Market Place, will be open to visitors as part of ‘Derbyshire Churches Open Day’ from 9.15am till 3pm. Refreshments will be available in the Cantelupe Centre, adjoining the church, during the morning.

There is a Harvest Festival Service at St Mary’s on Sunday September 27th at 10am. Everyone is welcome. All harvest gifts of food (preferably tins and packets as they keep longer) will be given to the Food Bank.

NEW GROUP Nottingham Road Methodist Church has started a ‘Friendship Group’ for people who are lonely and ‘don’t get out much’.

Meetings are on Thursdays between 2 and 3.30pm. Transport can be arranged, says leader Margaret Slater.

6 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

St Mary’s bells appeal Ilkeston’s church bells are acknowledged as one of the finest sounding rings of 8 in Derbyshire. The bells currently hanging in St Mary’s have rung out over the town for more than a century for the Sunday service, at weddings and other special occasions such as the Queen’s Jubilee.

They were recast and installed 105 years ago but are now in need of a full overhaul.

The old bearings are wearing out (see picture) making the bells increasingly difficult to ring. In 2010 fund raising began for extensive repairs, maintenance and rehanging; the cost of which is in the region of £30,000.

The local community was quick to lend their support to ensure the bells keep ringing. The total raised so far is about £20,000 made up of donations and grants. Although we have some way to go, the order for the work has been placed with Taylors of Loughborough to start in late September, meaning that the bells should be ringing again in time for Christmas.

The ringers at St Mary’s are always happy to welcome newcomers. There is a general misconception that bell ringing needs a lot of strength. However, people from ages 880 and beyond have learnt to ring successfully. Campanology is an activity that exercises both body and mind and is practiced in most towns and cities throughout the UK. Once proficient in the art, one has a life time skill and will be welcomed at any tower with bells. I myself have rung at cathedrals and churches all over the country. We practice on Thursday evenings between 7.30pm and 9pm. Anyone is welcome; just contact Richard Stevenson on

20 years of faith in action

07989 989079.

St Mary’s would like to thank the following organisations, shops and individuals for their generous contributions to the Bell Restoration fund: Erewash Borough Council, The Derbyshire Association of Church Bell Ringers, Stanton Benevolent Fund, Bellini’s on Heanor Road, Moore’s Flower shop, Thorpe’s Toy and Furniture Shop, Stacey’s Bakery, U Choose Smoothie Bar on Bath Street, Graham’s Shoe Repairs, St Mary’s congregation and bell ringers and all of the general public who have kindly put money into collection boxes.

Any further donations should be sent to The Treasurer, St Mary’s Church, The Market Place, Ilkeston, Derbys. DE7 5JA. —Richard Stevenson ———

BOOK SALE St John’s Church on Nottingham Road is having a book sale on 11th and 12th September to coincide with its Open Day on the Saturday (12th).

Books can be bought on the Friday between 6pm and 8pm and the following day between 10am and 12 noon. Supporters can also donate books to the stall.

The church has recently given its ‘children's corner’ a makeover. The small carpeted area has a selection of new books, toys, games and a drawing table.

working together in the community' so the workers come from different churches. The Trust is funded by donations from the churches and all the workers are volunteers. They have always provided food parcels and Christmas hampers and The The Hopewell Christian Trust (Charity No. 1073277) is celebrating 20 years of Manna House drop-in Cafe provides good quality food at a reasonable price. They work in the Ilkeston area. have a large van which is used to deliver Perhaps ‘celebrating’ is the wrong word food parcels, collect furniture and equipbecause those involved are just quietly ment, and help needy families move house. carrying on what they have been doing for They also provide work experience for people in need. young people looking for employment.

The work began when some of the Ilkeston For the past six years they have partnered churches joined together to open a commu- with Teen Challenge, a worldwide Chrisnity cafe on the Cotmanhay estate. This tian ministry working to help addicts cafe was called 'J's Place' and it ran for six change their lifestyle and become free to years, transferring to The Manna House, lead rich and fulfilling lives. Teen ChalKirk Hallam when the council demolished lenge workers wearing their yellow Tthe Cotmanhay estate shops. The former Shirts wait in the U Choose café, top of hardware shop on Queen Elizabeth Way Bath Street, on Tuesday mornings ready to now provides a base for all the work they meet and offer advice to anyone who wants do. to talk.

The Hopewell Christian Trust is 'churches (Continued on next page)

How would you answer?

Just checking in today

Premier Christian Radio has a late night programme on Sundays where listeners can ring in and seek advice from a doctor, psychiatrist, lawyer, counsellor or whoever happens to be in the studio at the time. Recently a man rang in and said: “I am a new Christian and I am troubled because church friends say I shouldn’t be gambling any more. I have been a horse racing enthusiast most of my life and it has given me much enjoyment. I have studied form and have become very knowledgeable about the racing scene; so much so that I have won a lot of money from it.

Since I became a Christian I have been able to give several generous donations to my church and other Christian charities. If I were to stop gambling, these deserving causes would miss out.

Should I give up or should I use this skill God has given me to help others?”

The programme presenter and the Christian counsellor were slightly taken aback by this unusual call. Before we tell you their considered verdict next month, how would you answer?

Author unknown A minister passing through his church In the middle of the day, Decided to pause by the altar To see who come to pray.

Just then the back door opened, And a man came down the aisle, The minister frowned as he saw The man hadn't shaved in a while.

His shirt was torn and shabby, And his coat was worn and frayed, The man knelt down and bowed his head, Then rose and walked away.

AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN. I DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY, BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERY DAY. SO, JESUS, THIS IS BEN, JUST CHECKING IN TODAY.'

The minister feeling foolish, Told Ben that it was fine.

He told the man that he was welcome To pray there any time.

'It's time to go, and thanks,' Ben said As he hurried to the door.

Then the minister knelt there at the altar, Which he'd never done before.

In the days that followed at precise- His cold heart melted, warmed with ly noon, love, The preacher saw this chap, As he met with Jesus there.

Each time he knelt just for a moAs the tears flowed down his ment, cheeks, 20 years of faith in action work they do but if anyone read- A lunch pail in his lap.

He repeated old Ben's prayer: ing this article would like to (from previous page) Well, the minister's suspicions 'I JUST CAME BY TO TELL YOU, know more about them they can grew, They also have a presence on contact them on 07702 880750 LORD, With robbery a main fear, the market place on Friday or call at The Manna House, HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN, He decided to stop and ask the nights to aid anyone whose SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER’S man, night out has gone wrong, and a Kirk Hallam during term time FRIENDSHIP 'What are you doing here?' drop-in at Queen Street Baptist Mondays and Wednesdays between 10.30am and 2.30pm to The old man said he was a factory AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN. Church on Thursdays where have a look round, enjoy a cup- worker people in need can get a meal I DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO pa and understand more fully the And lunch was half an hour; and find a listening ear.

PRAY, work they do.

Lunchtime was his prayer time, BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYAll the work they do is confiDespite the name ‘Teen ChalFor finding strength and power. dential, which is probably why DAY. lenge’ people of any age can be ‘I stay only a moment they are not well known in IlSO, JESUS, THIS IS ME, helped. Teen Challenge UK is a Because the factory's far away; keston. They seek to serve the JUST CHECKING IN TODAY.' registered charity and operates As I kneel here talking to the Lord, community in any area where they can help and have the expe- nationally to help young people This is kinda what I say: Past noon one day, the minister rience and resources to do this. who have developed life connoticed 'I JUST CAME BY TO TELL YOU, trolling problems, especially They have one problem: lack of That old Ben hadn't come. drug and alcohol addictions, and LORD, workers, and this means there As more days passed and still no also to offer preventative help to HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN, are many needs they cannot Ben, those who may be in danger of SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER’S meet. They are willing to visit He began to worry some. doing so.

FRIENDSHIP local churches to explain the

At the factory, he asked about him, Learning he was ill.

The hospital staff were worried, But he'd given them a thrill.

The week that Ben was with them, Brought changes in the ward.

His smiles and joy contagious.

Changed people were his reward.

The head nurse couldn't understand Why Ben could be so glad, When no flowers, calls or cards came, Not a visitor he had.

The minister stayed by his bed, He voiced the nurse's concern: No friends had come to show they cared.

He had nowhere to turn.

Looking surprised, old Ben spoke up And with a winsome smile; 'The nurse is wrong, she couldn't know, He's been here all the while.

Everyday at noon He comes here, A dear friend of mine, you see, He sits right down and takes my hand, Leans over and says to me: 'I JUST CAME BY TO TELL YOU, BEN, HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN, SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER’S FRIENDSHIP, AND I TOOK AWAY YOUR SIN. I THINK ABOUT YOU ALWAYS AND I LOVE TO HEAR YOU PRAY, AND SO BEN, THIS IS JESUS, JUST CHECKING IN TODAY.' .

Churches mission team visits Romania

styrene tiles to the whole of the outside walls, skimming them with cement and then applying a second skim coat before finally painting. The occupants were very Seven people from St Andrew’s Ilkeston grateful as temperatures can be as low as and St Andrew’s Langley Mill visited Poiana in Romania recently. Poiana is near minus 25 degrees in the winter, and the insulation means they don’t have to buy so the Black sea coastal city of Canstanta. much wood for heating.

Many houses in the village do not have The team also ran kids clubs on four afterrunning water or electricity.

While there, the team insulated an elderly noons during their stay and led a church couple’s home. This involved fixing poly- service on the Sunday.

Church but not as you know it Activities, music and a simple meal for you and your children This month: Saturday 12th Sept, 4pm at Ilkeston URC Thursday 24th Sept, 3.30pm at St Andrews You’re welcome to come along to

The Manna House

Christian Community Café

Queen Elizabeth Way, Kirk Hallam 07702 880750 Open during school terms, Monday & Wednesday, 10.30am—2.30pm Working in partnership with Teen Challenge Ilkeston

Cuppas—breakfasts—snacks—sandwiches

Teen Challenge —helping people break free of addiction.

The Faith Journey page is brought to you by members of the local Christian community and with occasional inspiration from

Ilkeston Life, September 2015

7

The Way We Were

Kathryn’s happy memories of her prefab home in Cotmanhay

This interesting photograph was sent to us by Kathryn Venn. It shows her home on Skeavington’s Lane, Cotmanhay, until 1970 when it was demolished and the family rehoused in a brick-built semidetached bungalow across the road.

is). We always had a kitchen table and chairs big enough for four.

“In the living room there were two very large cupboards, plenty of room for a full dining suite and a three-piece. The fire place had doors and, theoretically, the rest of the rooms were heated via vents in the Prefabs were built to address the UK’s ceilings. These, unfortunately, left black, housing shortage after the Second World sooty marks so mum papered over them.

War. They were intended to last for ten years but those in Cotmanhay were built to “From the front room there was the hall, a a better specification, according to Kathry- long hall with plenty of coat hooks, and the n’s dad, and were around for much longer, electric meter cupboard where mum keep as were many in the UK. Some survive to sweeping brushes, etc. this day!

“The bathroom was fully fitted with a douKathryn, who lived at number 46 with her ble airing cupboard, large bath, sink with a large cupboard underneath and a loo. mum, dad, sister and dog, remembers the prefab fondly.

“The larger of the two bedrooms was at the back and had an enormous built in ward“We lived on the right hand side going up Skeavington’s Lane and had a lovely view robe whilst the smaller, front bedroom had a small built in wardrobe. over the Erewash Valley,” she told us.

“Our rear garden backed on to Bentley’s “Each prefab stood entirely in its own field. Outside we had a large shed and a grounds. I was born there and lived there coal shed. until 1970 when we were allocated a bun“Inside was a large kitchen, fully fitted with galow across the road. It was never the same but it was equally as cold in winter metal units, a gas copper and gas fridge.

There was also a large wall cupboard and a until dad had central heating put in.” very large pantry (by today's standards that

COMIC FRIENDS – Hungry Horace and Keyhole Kate were characters in the very first issue of The Dandy in 1937 and they continued to appear well into the fifties.

Later they both made a comeback in other D.C. Thomson titles, Sparky and The Topper. These rhyming descriptions introduced them: Cakes and tarts and pies and buns, Horace scoffed them all in tons!

See Kate spying and telling tales, at getting into trouble she never fails.

JACKSON’S CHIPPIE 54 Market Street, Ilkeston.

TASTY

Phone 0115 932 5741

Famous for our fishcakes—praised for our pies—celebrated for our sausages—cheered for our chicken—glorified for our gravy!

Opening hours: Monday and Tuesday Wednesday Thursday and Friday Saturday

11am—2pm 4pm—9pm 11am—2pm CLOSED 11am—2pm 4pm—9pm 11am—2pm CLOSED

Established 1961

Part of Ilkeston Life for over 50 years

8 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

A page from the Trade Section of the Ilkeston Directory 1965-66.

September Walks You can join one of these groups and enjoy an invigorating walk in the country this month.

Short Walk. Macmillan Walk. Meet at Blind Lane Breaston (SK458335).

Includes stop at Macmillan coffee morning.

Leader Brian Marshal.

Wednesday 2nd September, 10.30am, Thursday 24th SeptemShort Walk. Brinsley Area. Meet at the Headstocks car park. (SK464486). Leaders ber, 10.30am, 6½ miles.

Ockbrook, Hopwell Hall & Risley. Meet at Margaret and Barry Chapman.

CP behind Draycott Fish Bar, off A6005 Sunday 6th September, 10.30am, 8 miles.

(SK442833, DE72 3PS). Leader: Brian Bole Hill & The Great Pond of Stubbing.

Marshall.

Park on road near the chapel at Stubbing Monday 28th September, 10.30am, 6 miles.

Court. (SK363669). Leader: Joyce Mold.

Wednesday 9th September, 10.30am, Short Woolley & Highoredish. Meet at Ogston Reservoir, Woolley CP (Pay) (SK373605).

Walk. Meet at the Gatehouse tea rooms, Leader: Joyce Mold.

Beauvale Priory, off the B600 near Wednesday 30th September, 10.30am, Moorgreen. (SK492490). Leader Brian Short Walk. Smalley/Mapperley. Meet at Collinson. car park of the Bell Inn, Smalley Thursday 10th September, 10.30am, 6 (SK407445, DE7 6EF). Leaders: Faye and miles. Holbrook & Milford. Meet at DufJohn Blackburn. field Church (SK350428, DE56 4BA).

More information on the club website or Leaders: Jacqui & Royce Drew (07770 contact Tony Beardsley, 07989 314242.

779596).

Monday 14th September, 10.30am, 7 miles. *** Locko & Stanley. Meet at “Bluebells” café (SK406374, DE21 7BU). Leader: Brian Tuesday 1st September: Social evening: Marshall.

Robert Mee presents a talk and slides of Wednesday 16th September, 10.30am, Derbyshire Castles at the Brewery Tap, Short Walk. Mapperley. Meet at NewdSouth Street, 7.45pm. igate Arms, West Hallam (SK443421).

Sunday 6th September: A 9-mile walk led Leader Sandie Jones.

by Clive Unwin, beginning at Combes ValSocial Wednesday 16th September, ley Nature Reserve near Leek. Lunch at 7.30pm. “Some Indonesian Islands” preCheddleton. sented by Mick Lunn – West Hallam VilSunday 20th September: A mystery walk of lage Hall.

Sunday 20th September, 10.30am, 9 miles. 10 to 12 miles, Rushup Edge or Nine Ladies,Stanton Moor. Led by Dawn BeauStanton Gate, Risley & Breaston. Meet at Sandiacre Library (SK478366, NG10 5FJ). mont.

More information from Jim Creswell, 0115 Leader: Brian Marshall.

944 2633 or 07747 419380.

Wednesday 23rd September, 10.30am,

Erewash Ramblers

Can you name mystery schoolteacher?

Did you go to Hallcroft School in 1960?

Maybe you are on this photograph taken during that year.

For a long time the administrators of Hallcroft Facebook group have been mystified over the identity of the circled teacher.

The D.H. Lawrence look-alike could possibly have been a student teacher who was only there for a short time, says Lawrence Lamond, a manager of the group.

The photo is part of a panoramic picture of the whole school. The other teachers from left to right are Harry Ferry (woodwork), Ron Price (physics), Bob Schofield (English) and John Laux (history).

The Hallcroft Facebook group was formed for ex-pupils of the Ilkeston secondary school and recently a reunion for all ages was held at the Three Horse Shoes pub on Derby Road.

Ilkeston Rambling Club

Eastwood’s famous son, writer D.H. Lawrence—see the resemblance?

EREWASH FOOTPRINTS WALKING FESTIVAL PROGRAMME—PAGE 13

Bus memories stirred at Classic Vehicle Show The old buses were a big draw at a vintage vehicle event held in the town centre last month. Pictured here are a Barton ‘works service’ bus to Stanton Ironworks and a gleaming no. 13 Trent double decker. Also shown is actor Stephen Lewis who played Blakey, the hapless inspector in ‘On the Buses’, a popular TV sitcom of the sixties and seventies. He died aged 88 three days before our event.

There are more pictures on page 14.

OBITUARY

ALAN BROWN Alan Brown of Giltbrook, also known to many as Mr Blinkinks, passed away suddenly whilst playing 6-a-side football on 4th August 2015, aged 57 years. Dearly loved husband of Julie, dad to Natalie and Lauren and grandad to Billy and Ellis. Alan set up Blinkinks computer supplies and repair shop on South Street, Ilkeston in May 2006 and for the last 9 years has helped many customers with their PC problems and building good friendships along the way. In his spare time Alan enjoyed playing golf and helping to run The Hayloft Golf Society, and also became a member at Pewit Golf Club at Ilkeston playing every Thursday evening, then calling for much needed refreshments at The Spanish Bar. Alan also played football every Tuesday and did for almost 10 years at Eastwood Sports Hall with friends young and old. Spending time with his family was also very important to Alan, especially the grandchildren who he looked forward to holidays with and who were a big part of his life. This has been a massive shock to everyone and Alan will be greatly missed by all his family and many friends. Funeral service was held at Bramcote Crematorium, in the Serenity Chapel, on Monday 24th August.

Alan supported local organisations by selling their publications in his shop and with this in mind we requested the retiring collection after the service be sent to the Ilkeston and District Local History Society. Thank you to everyone for your kind messages of sympathy.

Ron Brooks Toyota New and used cars

The Gateway Derby Road Ilkeston DE7 5FH Tel. 0115 930 2885 www.ronbrooks.co.uk

Ilkeston Life, September 2015

9

Jamie beats cancer, marries his sweetheart

Photo: Mary Wheatley

Men and pigeons of WW1 remembered in work of art Erewash Museum continues to mark the centenary of World War One with an usual exhibit by Joy Pitts.

Joy’s creation, using the names of 466 servicemen taken from the cenotaph in the Market Place, also commemorates the humble homing pigeon. Pigeons saved thousands of lives during World War One by delivering messages, and many of them also lost their lives.

Joy, who lives in Ilkeston, wove the names of the fallen on to tapes and arranged them in the shape of a giant pigeon on to fabric.

The work of art measures 130cm square and can be viewed in the John Lally Gallery between 11th September and 30th October.

Joy says she is indebted to local pigeon fancier Alwyn Hill for his help with the project which received support from Arts Council England.

She has also created a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and artwork for fashion designer Paul Smith.

Left: Joy Pitts, creator of the canvas.

Right: The name tags form a pigeon shape.

10 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

Cotmanhay man Jamie Cragg was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer a year ago, but last month he celebrated a remarkable recovery by marrying his sweetheart Lisa Clarke at Ilkeston Town Hall.

Friends of the Tesco manager raised funds to enable him to have ‘last chance’ surgery at Christie Hospital in Manchester.

A coffee morning at Ebenezer Church raised an amazing £2,400 as Jamie’s plight touched local people’s hearts. Community spirit came to the fore with groups and individuals showing they cared.

The operation was successful and Jamie began the road to recovery.

Tony Ayling, the father of Jamie’s girlfriend, said at the time: “We

couldn’t have hoped for better. The doctors say the surgery went well.

They got all of the cancer.”

Having beaten the ‘big C’, Jamie made plans to marry Lisa on 14th August, and the big day came last month when they tied the knot at the Register Office where a large crowd including family, friends and wellwishers had gathered.

End of an era The Salvation Army’s 135-year presence in Ilkeston has come to an end.

Despite a thriving playgroup, coffee morning and CAMEO lunch club for over-50s, declining attendances at Sunday worship services led to the closure of the Citadel this summer. Majors David and Julie Ludditt who were in charge were transferred to Hinckley in July and no new officers were assigned to Ilkeston.

Remaining members have joined other corps or other local churches.

The ‘Sally Army’ began in Ilkeston in 1880 when meetings were held at the Town Hall, ‘often packed to capacity with people having to be turned away,’ corps history books record. The hall on Chapel Street has been ‘home’ since 1890.

It was refurbished to a high standard fairly recently.

Divisional Headquarters have not given up on re-opening the corps at some time in the future if there is sufficient interest.

smell its fetid breath as it raised itself above my head on the pillow.

I heard a whimper and realised it came from me as it dropped into the otherwise, silent, dark room - and still my husband did not stir. If he was alive in the morning I Share your creative writing with other would kill him.

Ilkeston Life readers. Email ilkesAt least now I had movement in my body I tonlife@gmail.com or drop in/post to was shaking like a leaf.

The Editor, Ilkeston Life, 1 Bath Street, The bed sank as the beast climbed up and Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8AH. lay with its full weight on top of me. I was going to die. I had only been married for a few weeks and it was all going to end too soon.

I was just drifting off to sleep when I heard I fearfully opened one eye and all I could see were long yellow fangs in a cavernous the door on the landing click open.

I lay terrified, listening to the footsteps on mouth. I was just about to pass out with fear when I heard another whimper and this the stairs getting closer and closer. time it wasn’t me. However I did recognise I tried to nudge my husband as he lay it. I opened my eyes and my heart slowed sleeping next to me but I could not move. to an even pace.

I tried to shout, but my lips were dry and Lying on my chest was a great lump of stuck together. black Labrador. She belonged to the couMy brain wouldn’t function. Everything ple in the flat downstairs; I must have left seemed to be in slow motion. the door to the shared bathroom open and My fingers were clenched tightly around she had decided to come for one of her the edge of the bedclothes and I dare not doggy treats. look as the door of the bedroom creaked I fell back on my pillow. I was wet through open. with sweat. It had been the worst few Who, or what, was it?

We lived on the top floor of a seventeenth minutes of my life.

I managed to manoeuvre Sadie off the bed century house. I had never considered it could be haunted, but I was now hoping it although she was quite reluctant and sliding from my side of the bed, I took her was. A ghost seemed a lesser evil than downstairs and this time locked the door what was approaching me now. behind her.

As it came round my side of the bed I I walked back upstairs and across the bedcould hardly breathe. I thought my heart was going to leap out of my chest. I could room to the window and drawing the curtains, I looked out on to a full moon. I heard the comforting sound of a train going Answers to Ilkeston Shops Puzzle (P13) past on the embankment.

1. Urban Air; 2. New Look; 3. Peacocks; Then as I watched I saw a shadow crossing 4. Staceys; 5. Subway; 6. Boots; 7. Uthe yard. I stepped back quickly, closing Choose; 8. Pound Plus; 9. Paul Walker; the curtains. I had had quite enough excitement for one night, I thought as I climbed 10. Nails Bar; 11. Flower Flare; 12. back beside my still sleeping husband.

Heron. The phrase down the yellow column is ’Ilkeston Life’.

Patricia Spencer

Your Space Poems plus

The Dog on the Landing

Poetic Acrostic

A midnight muse gave birth to this: I wonder why….

People want to go poetic Over all, they want words to fill their brain thick Energised and refreshed like a dog relieved from a tick Taking down notes like writing lyric In different moments, indecisive of which word to pick Concentration is what makes the poem an epic Abdulbasit Abubakar Wordsmith is a Nigerian writer who follows our Facebook page

Some things we can’t explain The rain pours It’s getting late The stranger approaches The creaking gate The gate opens Beckons him in He doesn’t know The danger within An owl hoots The wind blows The floor is wet But on he goes He doesn’t see The hole ahead A grave dug For someone dead Soon he falls Into a pit He can’t get out Thinks ‘This is it’ Will he emerge?

Who knows?

As time passes His fear grows

The rain pours It’s getting late What will be The stranger’s fate?

The following day Another shock A funeral took place At 12 o’clock.

Lucky for him A boy passes by Sees him there Hears his cry.

Around the grave Mourners filed A mother wept bitterly For her only child.

The clever lad Knew what to do next Off he went A ladder fetched.

She had lost A lovely son A boy who would help Anyone.

Soon the imprisoned man was out Was, oh, so glad He turned to thank The caring lad

The stranger stood there Sharing her pain Remembering the night of the pouring rain.

But to his surprise The boy wasn’t there He’d vanished into Thin air!

Shocked and dazed Bewildered and afraid He wondered, was it an angel Who came to his aid?

It seems impossible But could it be (His thought were shrouded In mystery) Was this his rescuer Being laid low?

There are things We'll never know.

Robert Anthony

Dragonflies Arts and crafts shop 20 Market Place, Ilkeston

What will you make?

DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS SURGERY ILKESTON WEST WARD

COUNCILLOR MICHELLE BOOTH Saturday 12 September 2015 10.00am to 12 noon Ilkeston Town Hall Councillor Michelle Booth holds her Surgeries on the second Saturday of each month. Future Surgery dates are 10 October, 14 November and 12 December.

Ilkeston Life, September 2015

11

SHORT STORY

A Mysterious Lady in Skegness This story is about two women.

My wife Nancy was a speaker of pearls of wisdom and seeker of a better life. She left me for another man.

The other woman, Jade, was a speaker of few words. She literally fell into my life while I was on holiday in Skegness.

Nancy was a great one for sayings. Even in her absence, they would come to mind in certain situations. She’d have had a field day with the things that happened in Skegness. I can hear her now repeating her favourite words of wisdom... “Faint heart never won fair maiden”...“There’s no fool like an old fool.”

It all started on a bus. It was travelling quite fast, so when it braked suddenly, there were some harsh words said.

Strangely, the woman who was affected most by the incident reacted the least. She was thrown into the aisle. She looked quite shaken and embarrassed, but made little fuss. I helped her back into her seat.

When my stop came, the woman got off as well. I walked beside her and offered some small talk. She did not reply and I wondered if the bump had hurt her more than anyone realised.

Entering the caravan site, I said goodbye and went through the gate beyond which lay the camp shop and laundrette.

I found myself pondering on my lack of luck romance-wise. In truth I was a shy person. I would have liked to have got to know this lady, but making friends didn’t come easy to me. “Few friends, many acquaintances,” Nancy used to say.

To my surprise I sensed that the woman was behind me. This excited me and I wondered whether to stop and wait for her

12 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

or keep walking and see what happened.

My usual reticence won the day.

I decided to put her to the test. I would weave between the caravans and see if she followed me. I was disappointed to find she was not there when I glanced back. So disappointed, in fact, that I turned back to see where she had gone. Then – total embarrassment. We met face to face as I rounded a van.

I didn’t know what to say. I just looked at her and she looked at me. “Are you staying on the site?” I managed to ask eventually. She didn’t answer. “Would you like to pop into my caravan for a cup of tea?

Perhaps you could do with a rest after your bump on the bus.”

is over. I have to vacate the caravan by ten o’clock.”

“I only need to stay tonight; tomorrow I go,” she said.

“What a difference a day makes,” said Nancy’s voice in my head. Sometimes I felt so timid and alone, and now here was this lady who had come into my life without any effort on my part. She was here in my caravan for the evening, and no one else need know anything about it. A gift horse, Nancy would have called it.

The next morning there was no time to lose. I had to get myself and my belongings out of the caravan and make sure everywhere was clean and tidy for the next occupants. I was glad of Jade’s help.

But my pleasure turned to despair when I Again there was no reply, realised she had disappeared. She had gone out with the bin bags and failed to but she seemed to understand and walked with me. return.

I searched for her as long as time would I let her in the caravan and sat her down allow, but I knew instinctively she had on the florally decorated settee which ran taken her chance to slip away. Soon it was the length of the dining room area and time to have a last look through the caracurved sharply to become seating for the van to check I was not leaving anything table in the corner. I was glad I’d had a behind. Secretly I was hoping to find a clean-up before I went out. I’m not the note she had left me, but there wasn’t one. world’s tidiest person – no need to be on my own – but I was concerned about what This mysterious lady had come and gone like the proverbial thief in the night and I other people thought. was left with memories of a strange and “A cup of tea’ll do you good. Sugar?” I asked. Better make it two, I thought in the silence.

I decided not to question her any more. It wasn’t doing any good anyway. For some reason she wasn’t saying a word, and sooner or later I’d got to find out why. I passed her a mug of tea and sat quietly at the table sipping mine.

A minute or two later she spoke her first words. “Thank you for being kind to me.”

Nancy always said a cup of tea had amazing qualities.

“That’s OK,” I said. “You had me worried. I thought you were suffering from amnesia.”

“I needed to know I could trust you,” said the woman.

“When the bus nearly crashed, you didn’t get angry and swear like the others, so I thought you could be the one to help me.”

“What’s your name?” I asked.

“My name is Jade,” she replied. “Please do not ask me many questions. I need a place to stay tonight. I cannot go home.”

“You’re welcome to stay here tonight, Jade,” I replied, “but tomorrow I go home. My week’s holiday

bewitching encounter.

But if this incident had been a surprise, it was nothing compared to the surprise that awaited me back home. I walked in to find Nancy sitting on the settee. She jumped up as I entered, startled by my arrival.

“Bob, dear,” she said nervously. “I’ve come back – if you’ll have me. I’ve been a fool. The grass wasn’t greener. Can we let bygones be bygones? Forgive and forget?”

Now I was the one who couldn’t speak. Seeing my wife again was the last thing I had expected. I began to wonder what had gone wrong with her new love, the younger, more exciting man she had left me for a year ago.

I had always yearned for her return but it had seemed too much to hope for. Was this really happening? Before I could say anything she spoke again, in typical proverbial fashion.

“Silence is golden,” said Nancy hopefully.

“When love is greatest, words are fewest.”

“Of course I’ll have you,” I replied.

“Besides, it’s like you’ve never been gone.”

The end.

Robert Anthony

Walking Festival, 12th—27th September It must be eight or nine years since I first became aware of Autumn Footprints, the annual Amber Valley and Erewash Walking Festival. I recall meeting up with a group of people on the car park at the Carpenters Arms one fine Sunday afternoon for a guided walk around Dale Abbey. Or it could have been a short exploration of Ilkeston town centre also on a Sunday afternoon with the Local History Society. Either way, after the walk the leader asked all those present to fill in a feedback card which could be sent back to the Council post free. The comments received would help to secure funding for the following year’s programme. The result of sending back the card was that my name was added to a database and in subsequent years I have received literature through the post about July detailing the upcoming programme of walks in the autumn.

The Festival is held over two weeks around the middle of September each year. More recently a website has been set up at http://www.autumnfootprints.co.uk and the current brochure for the 2015 Festival can also be downloaded as a pdf file from the Visit Amber Valley site (http://bit.ly/1IIbjUN). But it’s in July each year I keep an eye on both websites eagerly anticipating the publication of the new programme.

This year the Festival will run from the 12th to the 27th September and include over 40 events during the 16 days. Most of the Festival is made up of guided walks, all of which are free of charge although there may be parking charges at some venues. The Festival also includes a Map Reading for Beginners course one afternoon at the Shipley Park Visitor Centre which also hosts the opening ceremony. The ceremony will be followed by a circular walk around the park of about 3 miles as an introduction to the Festival and will include information about the history and wildlife of the area.

Walks throughout the fortnight are graded easy, moderate or strenuous so there is something suitable for all ages and abilities. They vary in length from about 1 mile including two easy Nordic Walking Taster sessions and a couple of Xplorer Challenges (outdoor navigational challenges aimed at families) through 3 mile Walking For Health routes and other longer walks right up to a 9 mile route around Stanton By Dale and Risley with the Erewash Ramblers.

A group of walkers at Morley pictured last year at the start of an Erewash Ramblers led walk.

Raring to go— civic leaders, organisers, walk leaders and participants at the Opening Ceremony 2014.

The table on the right shows a summarised list of this year’s Festival but more details are available online from the websites mentioned above.

ILKESTON SHOPS PUZZLE The clues indicate the names of shops in Bath Street. If you get them all right, the yellow ‘down’ column should spell a significant phrase! Answers on P11.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Atmosphere in town (5,3) Not old appearance (3,4) Proud birds? (8) Cats? Yes! (anagram) (7) Underpass (6) Wellingtons? (5) I’m not going to make a selection! (1,6) 100p + (5,4) O’Grady, pedestrian (4,6) Attaches counter (5,3) Wall for free (anagram) (6,5) Water bird (5)

Booking a place on the walks is advisable especially if you are interested in the Nordic Walking sessions as there is only a limited amount of equipment available. Full details are available online and in the brochure. Of course no-one can guarantee the weather but during the previous Festivals I have taken part in, it has been generally perfect for walking with only one day two years ago when it rained all day.

This year’s Festival is the 13th in Amber Valley and Erewash and I can heartily recommend it having really enjoyed taking part during the last seven years. For more photos from those walks there’s a special section on the Ilkeston Cam website at http:// www.ilkcam.com/Specials/Footprints.html

Garth Newton

Ilkeston Life, September 2015

13

Bottom Gear by Pedal Pusher

Bennerley Viaduct News Volunteers completed the first stage of work on the Bennerley Viaduct on Saturday 8th August when they cleared ballast from the end of the last drainage trough.

The next task is to carry out a survey of the exposed metal work to assess the extent of any corrosion. At some point the foundations of the structure will also need to be examined, and for this to happen a certain amount of vegetation will have to be cleared. Plenty still to be done if you’d like to get involved!

The Friends of Bennerley Viaduct now have an active Facebook page with some great photos and all the latest news; a website is under construction. New members willing to take an active role will be particularly welcome.

Check out the Facebook page to find out about meetings and workdays. https://www.facebook.com/ bennerleyviaduct

Bill Tomson, the project leader, can be contacted on 0115 853 2953.

Don’t forget that big as the Viaduct project might be, it is only part of the bigger picture in the work of Sustrans. The cycling charity aims to set up a national network of safe cycling and walking routes. It has achieved a great deal but there is much to do. Once a route has been established it needs to be maintained and this is where volunteers can make a difference. If you use the Nutbrook Trail, part of National Route 67, you might have seen the Erewash Valley Sustrans Rangers in action, picking litter, managing vegetation, replacing signs and so on. In these times of cutbacks, community assets like the trail will be vulnerable unless the people who care ABOUT them are prepared to care FOR them.

Dan Robertson is the new Volunteer Coordinator for Sustrans in the East Midlands.

Call him on 0115 853 2948 to find out more and to be put in touch with the local Rangers.

Aviva Tour of Britain Britain’s answer to the Tour de France promises to be a great attraction this year as the popularity of cycling as a sport goes from strength to strength. Locals will have the chance of a grandstand view as the race passes through the town.

Stage 6 of the Tour (Stoke to Nottingham) will pass through Ilkeston on Friday 11th September some time between 2.25pm and 3.30 pm. There will be road closures for about 40 minutes before the arrival of the peloton, so if you are coming by car make sure you get where you want to be by 1.15pm. The riders will come along the A609 from West Hallam with an intermediate sprint taking place along High Lane East and Derby Road. This area is likely to be busy as there is an associated event at Straw’s Bridge, and the students of Kirk Hallam Community Technology College will be lining the sprint route. The race then follows Derby Road to White Lion Square and on to Nottingham where the stage finishes at the Forest.

Jeff Wynch

14 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

M

ention flying creatures at Straw’s Bridge and birds come to mind.

There are always plenty of resident and visiting species as you can see from the Friends of Straw’s Bridge Facebook page.

Take a look at the great photos of Reed Warblers, Great Crested Grebes and Cormorants among others. But while birds are the biggest and most obvious flyers they are by no means the most numerous. That distinction goes to insects, and there will be hundreds of thousands of them at any one time from the smallest midge or gnat to the largest butterfly, moth or dragonfly.

Unfortunately for many of them they end up as lunch for birds or supper for the final flying squad of the day, the bats, which come out to hunt at dusk.

People are quite knowledgeable about birds, even those who would not describe themselves as birdwatchers. Insects are harder to get to know being smaller and more ephemeral, although many do cooperate by sometimes sitting still. Bats are even less well understood because they don’t come out until night begins to fall, they are very quick and elusive and don’t settle.

With this in mind the Friends organised two guided wildlife walks this summer.

The Bat Walk on 27th July attracted about thirty people. Sarah, Helen and Mark from the Derbyshire Bat Conservation Group explained that bats are the world’s only flying mammals and that there are 17 species in Britain, 11 of which are found in the Midlands. Mark brought along a common pipistrelle bat, the smallest in the UK, which had been found on the ground in a factory yard. He had been caring for Bill the Bat for a couple of weeks, feeding him on meal worms until he was strong enough to be released near to where he was found. After pointing out that you need a licence to handle bats Helen gently took Bill around the room so that everyone could see him up close. At dusk, armed with torches and bat detectors, the group headed for Straw’s Bridge where, in spite of being cool for the time of year, there were plenty of common pipistrelles and a few Daubenton’s bats out hunting.

Flying around at Straw’s Bridge per; Large Skipper; Holly Blue; Small Copper.

DRAGONFLIES: Brown Hawker; Emperor; Common Darter; Black–tailed Skimmer; Common Blue Damselfly; Azure Blue Damselfly; Blue-tailed Damselfly; Banded Demoiselle.

Most people know that Buddleia is a good shrub to have in your garden if you want to attract butterflies.

A tip from Jim – for a small garden, or in addition to a Buddleia – try a few marjoram plants.

You would think that nothing else could possibly be flying at Straw’s Bridge, but

the observant will already have noticed the new flagpole near the entrance. At the time of writing there is no flag. No prizes for guessing what colour it will be.

Disappointingly there is still no decision from EBC about the mobile catering facility.

The Friends will be holding their next meeting at 7pm on Thursday 3rd September in the Community Room at Ilkeston Fire Station. Please come along if you’d like to get involved. Find more information and lots of pictures on Facebook or by visiting www.friendsofstrawsbridge.co.uk Richard Windsor at Erewash Borough Council can tell you more about this and other Friends groups (907 2244 ext. 3887).

Jeff Wynch

Thousands attend Ilkeston Heritage & Classic Vehicle Show 2015

The Derbyshire Bat Conservation Group is a registered charity dedicated to the protection and conservation of bats and their habitats, with a strong emphasis on educating the public about bats. As well as carrying out research and caring for rescued bats they run a lot of bat walks and put up and monitor bat boxes all over the county. They will be monitoring the bat boxes at Straw’s Bridge this autumn. Find out more about bats and the work of the group at www.derbyshirebats.org.uk On Sunday 2nd August the Fosbies emerged back into the sunlight. Jim Steele, the Butterfly Conservation Officer for Lowland Derbyshire, took a group of about 15 people around Straw’s Bridge and Manor Floods to spot and identify butterflies and dragonflies. The warm sunny weather meant that a good number of species were seen.

BUTTERFLIES: Large White; Small White; Green-Veined White; Peacock; Small Tortoiseshell; Comma; Meadow Brown; Ringlet; Gatekeeper; Small Skip-

Photos: Garth Newton

Facebook Favourites The most viewed posts on Ilkeston Life Facebook page last month were:

1. Gareth Holland’s

post: Travellers have invaded Rutland sports ground— 6.9K 2. Kim Keeton’s post: Asda’s new Ilkeston petrol station—6.2K; 3. Sad news: Alan of Blinkinks has died—5.7K; 4. Charlotte Deavall’s post: Black dog found on park—4.8K 5. Breaking news: Fire on Bath Street—4.7K 6. Sarah Munro’s old photograph of Lower Market Place—4K; 6. Post Office seeking views on proposed move—4K; 6. Garth Newton’s photographs from St Mary’s tower—4K; 9. Eye-catching ‘motorbike’ exhibit in Smoothie Bar window— 3.5K; 10. Summer Sounds event cancelled—3.3K; 10. RSPCA reveals catpoisoning danger—3.3K; Another 125 page likes have taken our total to 4,015 as we go to press.

Hughes cracker seals win in Wales Colwyn Bay 0 Ilkeston 2 Ilkeston were able to build on their opening midweek win at Grantham with this impressive victory.

Colwyn Bay started well and had the better of the opening exchanges but it was Ilkeston who took the lead. Michael Williams created the opportunity for Hughes to head into the path of Edwards who scored from close range.

Hughes doubled Ilkeston’s lead four minutes into the second half with a wonderful strike. He let fly from some distance and his shot sailed into the top corner of Colwyn Bay’s net.

Ilkeston found themselves two up without having dominated the game although they always looked the more likely to score. Both teams were making chances but the Robins had Evandro Rachoni to thank on a couple Ilkeston fan Stewart Quinn congratulates goalkeeper of occasions. Indeed the Ilkeston keeper saved his side Evandro Rachoni after the Colwyn Bay match. Photo: from a nervy final few minutes when he brilliantly Alan Savage. saved a penalty in the 86th minute diving to his right.

Williams and Gordon excelled in midfield and Baker once again was a rock in Ilkeston’s defence.

Right back, Doyle made some good attacking surges and Hughes showed his class.

The travelling Ilkeston supporters were in good voice throughout the game and earned the appreciation of Ilkeston’s owner Nigel Harrop.

MATCHMAN Lee Hughes about to score Ilkeston’s second goal Photo: Craig Lamont.

Ilkeston FC bring you Affordable Football at the New Manor Ground, Awsworth Road.

Admission at the Gate is only £6 Adults, £4 Concessions and Children under 16 free if with an Adult.

September and October month’s Evo-Stik Northern Premier League fixtures are as follows: Sat 5th Sep Tue 8th Sep Sat 12th Sep Sat 19th Sep Mon 21st Sep Sat 26th Sep Wed 30th Sep Sat 3rd Oct Mon 5th Oct Sat 10th Oct

ASHTON UNITED (home) 3pm Frickley Athletic (away)7.45pm FA Cup 1st qualifying round 3pm Marine (away) 3pm DARLINGTON (home) 7.45pm FA Cup 2nd qualifying round 3pm Whitby Town (away) 7.45pm NANTWICH (home) 3pm BARWELL (home) 7.45pm FA Cup 3rd qualifying round or Salford City (away) 3pm Tue 13th Oct Stamford (away) 7.45pm Sat 17th Oct BUXTON (home) 3pm Tue 20th Oct Stourbridge (away) 7.45pm Sat 24th Oct FA Cup 4th qualifying round or COLWYN BAY (home) 3pm Mon 26th Oct GRANTHAM (home) 7.45pm Sat 31st Oct Cambridge City FA Trophy 1st round (away) 3pm Come and support your local side. You won’t regret it. It’s an excellent standard of football at a modest price. For latest information visit the Club’s website: www.ilkestonfc.co.uk

Ilkeston Life, September 2015

15

Sport

JUST A THOUGHT Take risks: If you win you’ll be happy; if you lose you’ll be wise.

Losing start is tough on Robins Ilkeston 1 Skelmersdale 3

Ilkeston’s Dan Udoh chases the ball during the match against Skelmersdale.

Photo: Craig Lamont

Box on: Trinity enter 40th year Ilkeston's Trinity boxers have reported back for pre-season training, preparing for what will be their 40th season.

Back in 1975 Ilkeston born brothers John and Danny Rafferty established the club at the school building of the Holy Trinity Church on the corner of Cotmanhay Road and Factory Lane. On the first night, over 100 young hopefuls turned up to gain membership of a club that has proved for years that it has a very important part to play in the development of the local youth. John enjoyed a successful boxing career that saw him become an Army champion and progress through the Raleigh Club and Nottingham School of Boxing. He continued to compete, helping to establish a boxing club at Ilkeston Miners Welfare. In the late 60's John joined the now defunct Draycott Boxing Club as a coach and later decided with the help of his younger brother Danny, a former Navy boxer, to form Trinity.

John and Danny Rafferty

The new season promises to be very exciting with plenty of talent ready to emerge from the recent summer intake, but as we prepare to embark on a new season it is always good to look back on some of the club’s highlights and remember why we are now regarded as one of the county's outstanding boxing clubs. Over these years the club has produced many fine athletes and helped many young people to establish their own role in life, and that is something that the club are very proud of, but we have also produced some outstanding boxers, among the best that Derbyshire has ever produced. To date the club has produced 12 national champions, and many more regional and county champions. The list of

16 Ilkeston Life, September 2015

names over this period of time is endless, but all who have been a part of Trinity Boxing Club in what ever way, have taken away something that will remain for the rest of their life.

The club’s first national success came in 1985 when Danny Rafferty jnr won the national title of the Boys Clubs Championships. This was followed in 1991 by Richard Winfield in the same competition. Leon Dean became club’s first ever schoolboy champion in 1999 and David Davis repeated that feat a year later. Luke Robinson won the Junior ABA title the following year and Zoe Rafferty became the first ever Derbyshire female boxer, going on to win three ABA national titles as well as representing England on four occasions . Chloe Hemstock also won the club’s first ever national female title.

Recently the club has had outstanding success in the novice championships with three national titles being emphatically won by Russ Henshaw , Jake Harrison and Sam Patchitt. Since first forming at the Trinity Church building, the club has had many homes as we have had to move around to suitable premises, but over the years the there has been great support from the Ilkeston community. For a spell the club relocated to Sandiacre Friesland School; this was followed by a short time at the Poplar Inn on Bath Street, then the Pioneer Club on Corporation Road. After the Pioneer closed down we moved for a very successful time at the Rutland Arms (now Aldi), and from there to the Aldred's Bakery unit (now Tesco). Graham Butchart of Aldred’s was our sponsor for a long period and he became the club chairman and helped us move to a purpose renovated accommodation on Critchley Street. The club enjoyed many happy years at that gym and produced many talented boxers.in a period that was memorable. During the later stages of this period the club decided to move their present home on the Quarry Hill Industrial Park and once again are producing champions and giving Ilkeston a boxing club to be proud of.

Skelmersdale inflicted an opening day defeat on Ilkeston, who were fielding several new players following the departure of manager Kevin Wilson and a number of his squad to Nuneaton.

The Robins’ new manager Gavin Strachan could be pleased with his team’s performance even though they lost. Two in two minutes by Alan Burton and Danny Mitchley turned the game around after Marcus Harness had given Ilkeston a sixth minute lead. It looked hopeless for the home side when Lee Hughes was later sent off, but they kept trying and conceded a third goal near the end through Burton.

Burton was the villain as far as Ilkeston fans were concerned. He was given the run-around by Robins new signing Lee Hughes, and his response was to keep complaining to the referee that he was being fouled. This led to Hughes being booked midway through the first half.

Then there was an incident in which a Skelmersdale’s right back Mooney went down holding his mouth. The referee Mr James Bell looked as if he was going to send Hughes off until a linesman intervened and indicated simulation.

In the second half it looked to be all over for Ilkeston when Hughes was red-carded for an elbowing offence.

The ten remaining Robins fought to equalise but as so often happens it was a goal at the other end that settled the destination of the points, Burton tapping in by the post.

Attendance: 505.

Bridge Inn

Scott Rafferty

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Gingerbread men crumble as Baker strikes Grantham 1 Ilkeston 2 After conceding a goal in the first minute, Ilkeston eventually recovered to snatch the points. It was the worst possible start when Grantham scored with their first attack through Ndlovu. It came from a long ball forward which the Ilkeston defence failed to deal with and allowed the Gingerbread forward the opportunity to score from close range. This early setback clearly unsettled Ilkeston and Grantham dominated the early exchanges. It took Ilkeston until the 29th minute to equalise through the lively Lee Hughes. He was found by a defence splitting Danny Gordon pass which he controlled on his chest before slotting the ball past Jake Turner, the Grantham keeper.

Grantham were still posing a threat with their height up front and the Ilkeston defence had to be alert to keep their aerial attacks at bay but by half time Ilkeston were in the ascendency.

The second half started in steady rain making the pitch slippery. Eli Bako was injured early on and had to be replaced by Michael Williams. Ilkeston were now creating several chances. A shot from Jonathan Edwards was well saved by Turner after good work by Hughes. There was then a pinball situation in the Ilkeston goalmouth before the danger was cleared. Marcus Hareness got into a good position but fired over. At the other end Rachoni had to race out of his goal to block a shot.

Dan Udoh replaced Edwards late on as Ilkeston went for the winner. It came five minutes from time when Harness beat his man on the right and his cross was headed in

by Matt Baker from six yards.

MATCHMAN