Ironville & Codnor Park Newsletter Local news, events, articles and more. October 2018 Welcome to Issue Number Nine We hope that you continue to find our village newsletter of interest and enjoy its articles and other contents. If you would like to get in touch please write to

the editor - Andy ([email protected]) or text Tracey (07555584913)

This Newsletter comes to you via “Unicorns,” a local voluntary group celebrating and promoting the rich heritage and culture of our village through social events and effective communication. For further information why not visit our web site: http://unicorns.comli.com/Index.htm

News From Ironville and Stop Press - Breaking News Codnor Park Primary School

Carriage Youth Club Could Close  01773 602936

As always we had a busy time at the Our local youth club end of the summer term and we man- has been told by DCC aged to pack a lot in. that they will vacate We held a Royal tea 8th party to celebrate the the premises by wedding of Prince October. This is an absolutely devas- Harry and Meghan tating decision for our community Markle on the school and tantamount to abandonment of a playground, which vital facility for the young people in parents/carers attended. The school our village. It is hoped that the local received a thank you card from the community can help to reverse this royal couple! We worked closely with members of decision. (N.B. Correct at the time of going to print - 8th Sept) the community during the ‘Butterfly Please go to page 28 to find out more. Project’ with Pete Clark (see page 24) and “The Radish Trial “ with Andy For Codnor Castle Events go to page 16 Cadman (see page 20 & 21). The children thoroughly enjoyed both

projects and getting out into the local © Sharon Dale community. We were lucky enough to have the RSPB come in and work with each class on different projects using the school grounds. At the end of the term KS2 children held a production of ‘Dare to Dream BIG’ in the Church Hall, which was a huge success. (See page 25). Thank you again to everyone who helped This summer we have had some very special visitors to the Forge. with the event not only the staff in Clouded Yellow butterflies are an extremely rare sight in Derbyshire. school but to all of the members of Common in France and Spain, perhaps on the UK south coast, however, the local community. We couldn’t further north and it gets too far for their migration. To have so many on have done it without you. Thank you. our local Forge Nature Reserve is indeed a real privilege. (More inside). Parish Council Report by Kath Gruber, Parish Clerk

Since the last newsletter there have been 3 Parish Council meetings and the Annual General meeting, all of which were well attended by residents who continue to highlight issues to improve the village. Lots has been happening:

Your Parish Council now has a website where you can find details of meetings, policies and initiatives. The website can be found here - www.ironvilleparishcouncil.co.uk

Improvements to Ironville and Codnor Park  The Council’s Smarten our Village initiative has seen many improvements such as graffiti removal, cleaning of dirty signs, fixing of broken fences and bus stop. The Council continues to monitor eyesores that let the village down to ensure they are given time and persistence to get them sorted. If residents notice any issues let your local councillors know. Parkside Drive, March 2018  The Council funded a small project to brighten the village by planting daffodil bulbs.  Actions to ease the flooding along Coach Road have been taken.  Despite best efforts there continues to be noise nuisance, litter and anti-social behaviour in certain locations of the village and the Council is working with the Police, Housing and Borough Council to address these.

Defibrillator The Council has put in a grant application to fund a defibrillator and has sought views from residents on where this should be located if the application is successful. Popular locations are the Post Office or the Community Centre. If you have an opinion on where a defibrillator should be located, please let your local Councillors know.

Grant Donation The Parish Council awarded a grant of £250 to enable the school to put on a production of Joseph in July.

Improvements along the Canal The canal towpath continues to be very well used and Cromford Canal and Codnor Park Res Volunteers continue to work hard in making it safe, clean and attractive.

Council Policies  At the Annual General meeting in May the Council reviewed its policies and procedures, and these can be found on the Councils new website – www.ironvilleparishcouncil.co.uk  New security and privacy procedures were approved by the Council in July to comply with the Government Data Protection Regulations that came into force in May. These can be found on the Council’s website www.ironvilleparishcouncil.co.uk

Commemoration of WW1 The Parish Council has bought lamp post poppies to install in November to commemorate 100 years since the ending of WW1

Christmas Lights The Parish Council is looking at options and costs to make the village more festive.

And finally, are you interested in keeping fit whilst helping the Council ensure the village footpaths are safe and accessible?

The Council is looking for people interested in walking the village footpaths and reporting issues such as obstructions, broken fences, overgrown vegetation. If you are interested please contact the Parish Clerk, Kath Gruber, on [email protected] or 07595515154

Safer Neighbourhood News

Welcome to the latest update from your local Safer Neighbourhood policing team who cover the Ironville and Codnor Park area. PCSO Meikel Miller *, who many of you may know or will have seen updates from her from the previous editions, is currently on a secondment to the youth engagement team for Amber Valley. She leaves the area in the capa- ble hands of her colleagues, PC Andy Swift and PCSOs Chris Bannister and Matt Thompson who will be a point of contact for local residents and hope to see you out and about. Early in August the Somercotes and Riddings Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team worked alongside the DVLA on an operation to target untaxed vehicles in the Ironville area following information from the local community. A number of vehicles were seized as a result. While the vast majority of people will pay for tax, insurance and MOTs, it's only fair that action is taken against those who do not. Please take the time to ensure * your car is roadworthy, safe and also legal.

In Codnor Park, there was also a recent incident where a number of cows had escaped from a field in Langley Mill and caused quite a bit of disruption in the area. So it seems timely to offer a bit of a reminder about walking in the countryside and around livestock- here are some do’s and don’ts which we would encourage people to follow when enjoying our lovely rural and open spaces:

Do  Stop, look and listen on entering a field. Look out for any animals and watch how they are behaving, particularly bulls or cows with calves.  Try to avoid getting between cows and their calves.  Be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you.  Move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd.  Keep your dog close, on a short lead, and under effective control.  Remember to close gates behind you when walking through fields con- taining livestock. Don’t give cattle or other livestock an opportunity to escape.

Don’t  Don’t hang onto your dog if you are threatened by cattle - let it go as the cattle will chase the dog and not you.  Don’t put yourself at risk by walking close to cattle.  Don’t panic or run – most cattle will stop before they reach you; if they follow just walk on quietly.

That’s all for the latest edition. If you would like to get in touch there are a number of ways you can contact us: Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary

Twitter – direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact

Website – complete the online contact form: www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.

Phone – call us on 101. Cosmic Codnor Park . . . or Infinity over Ironville by Chris Hook

Longer dark nights are finally approaching and a few people have asked me ‘what’s the best sort of telescope to buy’? The answer is often a little disappointing. Telescopes are expensive and unless you know what you want and more importantly how to set them up and operate them properly, the brand new shiny scope will probably not make it out of the box more than once. Before rushing out to buy your scope I would suggest the best way to look at the night sky is by using your own eyes; get to know where the constellations are. As you learn use these constellations to ‘point’ towards other interesting bright objects or Planets. To give yourself the best chance of seeing in the dark it is a good idea to allow your eyes to become ‘dark adapted’. To do this, simply sit in a dark room with no artificial lighting for at least twenty five minutes. During this time your pupil will dilate – letting in as many photons of light as possible. When you look at the night sky these photons of light will have been travelling millions, if not billions of light years, so the bigger your pupil, the more chance of catching a few. Now simply go out into the night avoiding artificial lighting and look North. You will see a saucepan shape that expands over the distance of two outstretched hands. This is ‘The Plough’ or to give it its correct name ‘Ursa Major’. Join the two stars from the bottom to the top of the front of the square saucepan shape, and follow an imaginary line straight up until you reach a single star about twice the distance from the front of the plough. This single star is the North Star or Pole Star, all the other stars rotate around this. (Actually it’s the earth that’s doing the rotating and, as we’re all standing on the earth, we are rotating too – at almost 1,000 mph!). The Pole star if often quoted as being the brightest star in the sky, unfortunately this is not the case, so please don’t expect to find a very bright star! Now you can find the first constellation, use the stars in Ursa Major to ‘point’ to other constellations. To do this have a look at a sky map. One of the easiest maps to follow is from Skymaps.com and it’s free! Once you get the hang of using Ursa Major to ‘point ’towards other constellations you might want to have a look at some rather good software called Stellarium . Stellarium is a free download that provides you with a view of the entire night sky from any location , it also ‘zooms in’ on any specified object such as nebulae, galaxies and planets, so you can then find them with ease. Once you are familiar with what you wish to look at and how to find it, grab yourself a pair of 10x20 binoculars and use them to enhance the areas that you are interested in, they will allow you a much closer look and allow you to see some of the fainter objects. Once you have the bug, then is the time to begin researching your purchase of a telescope. If you get this far then my only recommendation is to buy the telescope with the biggest mirror! This is not just to brag to your friends, the bigger the mir- ror, the more photons of light the scope can collect, (just like your wide open dark adapted pupils) . Once the scope has captured the photons, then the magnification of the lens can do its job. It’s not the mirror that mag- nifies the image it’s the eyepiece, but the larger the mirror the more photons there are available to magnify. As October approaches it begins to get dark around 7.30pm so you may like to try out your new found skills by looking towards Jacksdale and Brinsley around this time and just below the Summer Triangle you will see a reddish ‘star’, this is the planet Mars. (At the point of writing Mars is having a stormy dust season so there is very little in the way of detail on Mars due to the storms, these storms can last for months – so don’t think your telescope is broken!) To the right of Mars is another bright ‘ star’, this is Saturn. Despite being very low down Saturn is always worth a look through a scope or binoculars with those fabulous rings on view . We were clouded out during the recent Persied meteor shower, but there is another due on November 11th. If you find the Square of Pegasus using your map (this asterism will rise over Jacksdale as it becomes dark and will ‘move’ via Brinsley towards Ripley during the night). If you allow your eyes to become dark adapted then look to the lower left area of the Square of Pegasus you may catch a meteor, commonly known as shooting stars. The flash of light is actually comet dust that is ‘burning’ up due to the friction caused by our upper atmosphere as the earth passes through the dust. The best time to catch these showers are in the very early hours, but it is still possible to see them during the hours of darkness.

Good hunting. A Very Special Occasion at Christ Church, Ironville

Wednesday, 25 April 2018 saw our local Parish Church filled almost to capacity with the congregation taking up virtually every available seat. The people were there to witness and be part of the licensing and installation service of Revd Mark Taylor the new Priest in Charge of Alfreton and of Riddings and Ironville and Assistant Curate (to be known as Associate Priest) of the benefice of Somercotes.

The service was led by The Right Reverend Jan McFarlane, Bishop of Repton assisted by The Venerable Carol Coslett Windsor, Archdeacon of Chesterfield. The entrance proces- sion included numerous visiting clergy, the new Parish Priest Designate, and Churchwardens. The Bishop of Repton (left) with Rev. Mark Taylor

The sound of so many voices singing joyous hymns full of praise to God was a truly uplifting experience! Many people from the local villages attended the occasion as well as a coach load of parishioners from Mark’s previous church to wish him well in the next chapter of his ministry.

The Bishop of Repton gave a special thank you to the Rev Imogen Black for organising the ceremony.

After the service there was a buffet in the Church Hall for everyone to enjoy.

© Pete Clark - group of 4 photos Ironville Strollers by Moray Stewart As part of a recent walk, the walking group visited a new village heritage display celebrating the rich history behind the former historic Codnor Park Ironworks!!!

Fred Leighton was the last Deputy Manager at the local Forge and he played a major role in the success of this project. This heritage display was kindly funded by Okeover Freemasons Lodge. The poster inside the cabinet was printed by Chris Reynolds (Monument Lane) of Sheldrake Labels. Thanks are also due to Mr. & Mrs Orange for allowing the cabinet to be sited in their field. The display is situat- ed just across the road from the corner of Forge Row and Station Road. Why not go and take a look

and just imagine what the site looked like sixty or more years ago.

The Ironville Strollers are still going strong and are open to anyone who would like to join in. They are based at Christ Church, Ironville. The main aim of the group is to encourage local strolling as an inexpensive, convenient form of exercise, whilst providing excellent social opportunities and the chance to discover the natural beauty in this locality and sometimes further beyond. Walks are short (2 - 3 miles long), varied and suitable for all abilities. They are led by trained walk leaders, walkers being able to walk at their own pace. They are therefore limited in distance. Our walks take place as follows: Local Strolls - every 2nd & 4th Thursday; every first Thursday by car to a designated starting point; every 3rd Thursday by mini-bus to an arranged starting point and stopping off at a café for refreshments. So if this is for you, why not give our Walking Group a try! Contact: Elliott Hughes on 01773 540245 to find out more. Stop press: Two new heritage

displays have very recently been positioned outside Butterley Court. One poster reflects the rich history

of this building and the other looks at the Forge from a different per- spective to the Station Road poster. Thank you to Alan and Ian (above) Hutchinson Why not go and take a look? for consenting to positioning the signs here. Friends of the Forge Open Day 20th May 2018 (In association with the Friends of Belper Parks Ltd.) The day provided a wonderful opportunity for visitors to observe at first hand how a diverse range of wildlife is making a return to the Forge Site following the more recent open cast mining and the earlier almost 200 years of heavy industry.

Members of Butterfly Conservation were available to explain the significance of the site for butterflies and conducted butterfly walks on a beautiful spring day.

Fred Leighton the last Deputy Manager of the Forge was on hand to tell every one about The Forge and its place in the history of England.

A chance to meet the new owners in their natural habitat.

A great opportunity for families to learn together about A chance to discuss local wildlife and local heritage. future plans for the site.

Cllr Paul Smith presenting a cheque

for £800 to the editor. This is to fund future newsletters for our village. The funding comes via the D.C.C. Community Leadership Scheme. Paul has sourced the funding for all nine Newsletters to date. From the feedback received, all have been much appreciated by

our local community and far beyond.

Witnessing the presentation were Michael Blount and Cllr Pam Cope.

“Tootsies” Footcare - Affordable Footcare

Age UK Derby and Derbyshire and NHS Derbyshire County are working together to offer an affordable, long-term footcare solution for people aged 50+.

th th In Ironville Church Hall, Casson St. on Wednesday 26 Sept. and Wednesday 7 Nov.

To book an appointment please call 01773 766922 (19th Dec.—More dates are to follow) Focus on Erewash Valley - Derbyshire Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve by Kate Lemon, DWT Erewash Valley Programme Manager The Erewash Valley is home to many unspoilt areas and home to a diverse array of wildlife, many of which are dependent on the river and surrounding wetland habitats of streams, lakes, marsh and fen and of course the remnant Cromford Canal. People are often surprised to learn that our local canal extends through the Erewash Valley, it of course being synonymous with the Derwent Valley and Cromford Mills, the birthplace of the industrial revolution. However the canal was specifically built to link the Erewash Canal, which began at Langley Mill, to Cromford to both carry Nottinghamshire coal further north to fuel the growing industrialisation there and to extract limestone for the growing iron industry to the south. It also became an important link for moving south, lead from Wirksworth and cotton from the Cromford Mills. The connection to the Erewash Canal would link this new spur to the Trent and Mersey Canal and therefore the rest of the country. Since its decline as a functioning waterway in the early 1900’s the canal has become a wildlife corridor through a landscape heavily modified and influenced by coal mining. Once the canal became derelict, in parts it became a dumping ground for local industry including the neigh- bouring Ironville Forge and the entire canal was filled in from the railway embankment west of Brinsley down to the edge of Langley Mill. In the remaining parts water control features such as lock gates and sluices were removed, greatly reducing the water levels and the canal became more-marsh like overall. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust took ownership of the current nature reserve from UK Coal in 1996 along with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, who purchased land on the far side of the river. This joint effort saw nearly 100 hectares of land secured and protected for wildlife. The reserve is home to many species of birds and animals, most noticeably wetland birds such as lapwing, greenshank, snipe, shoveller, water rail, water shrew, otter and water vole. The ¾ mile canal section that formed part of the Derbyshire reserve is an important site nationally, still having a healthy sized population of white-clawed crayfish along with breeding water vole, kingfisher and many other small songbirds. Since 2015 we have been working more closely with the local commu- nity in caring for the section of canal we own and what was one or two keen local people carrying out es- sential scrub cutting and litter pick- ing has now evolved into a weekly group that are now established as a constituted group in their own right. Much of this is down to Andy Moon, a keen amateur naturalist who has rolled his sleeves up and got stuck right in dredging reed and clearing Local volunteers have transformed our section of the Cromford open water again. Canal into an amazing place and the wildlife has responded! Interview notes from Andy “It started in May 2016 when I approached DWT to ask if I could clear some of the reed that was dominating the canal to restore a better balance of open water and aquatic vegetation. I’m a local chap who loves walking the dog along the towpath every day and watching the variety of wildlife that can be seen there. In particular I noticed the kingfisher was be- coming scarcer since the open water was being taken over by reed and it could no longer hunt the small fish that live in the canal. I had also seen some evidence of water vole there but it was patchy and again they were very hard to spot. Having done some research I knew that a mosaic of open water and short bankside vegetation, along with some areas of reed would offer the best habitat for many wetland birds and animals but DWT seemed very short of resource to carry out the practical works required. I was given the go-ahead to do some work and it became a weekly mission to clear a little more each time. I saw results very quickly and within a few months I had cleared between 2 of the existing locks and water voles were appearing all along the channels I had created. At this point I set up a Facebook group – Codnor Park Reservoir and Cromford Canal, simply to share photos and to encourage more local people to care about their patch”. Andy was soon joined by more local people who wanted to volunteer to help care for the canal and the wildlife that lives in it. The amazing story of how the group developed and now flourish- es can be found on the pages that follow (pages 8 & 9) further examples of what has been achieved by this group can be found in previous newsletters. We have also recently been successful with funding from Viridor (a recycling, renewable ener- gy and waste management company), to carry out significant dredging and habitat restoration works at Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve and to replace and improve the livestock fencing across the site too. The project will enhance the UK BAP ( Biodiversity Action Plan), priority habitat of floodplain grazing marsh and help conserve several UK BAP species including Lapwing, Wigeon, Teal, water vole, toad, frog, smooth snake, grass snake and assorted dragonfly species. The best method of managing these beautiful water meadows is low intensi- ty cattle grazing. Their slow-moving, browsing style of eating prevents over-grazing in any one area, instead they give all the vegetation a trim without concentrating on any particular species and the cow pats are ideal food for the invertebrates such as beetles and flies that form the start of the food chain for larger insects, amphibians and birds. Many of the fences that contain the livestock are failing through old age, so repairing and replacing necessary sections will ensure the best method of management continues. The dredging works will refresh the scrapes and ditches that become naturally silted up during each winters flooding, restoring open water and a diverse mosaic ideal for ground nesting birds and wetland waders. The works will take place in late summer 2018. From Little Acorns … By Marie Brown

Over the last two years, a small but significant section of the Cromford Canal between Ironville and Jacksdale has been enjoying a little tender loving care by a dedicated and hardworking group of volunteers, led by local nature enthusiast, Andy Moon.

The Cromford Canal and Codnor Park Reservoir Group, under the watchful eye and care of Derbyshire Wildlife Trust has had a distinct and measurable impact on the 1.2 mile stretch of waterway beginning at Ironville and ending at the Butterley Company Dam, near the Portland Basin at Jacksdale.

Initially, Andy asked the Trust if they would mind if he cleared a few reeds which were dominating the canal, blocking out natural light and eroding the sides of the canal bank. It was hoped that by clearing the reeds, removing years of rubbish and other weeds it would help to restore a better balance of open water and aquatic vegetation. Little did he know then what that would create.

In June 2018, the Facebook group reached 600 members, some, as from as far away as New Zealand and America and they now have a 5 year plan which is already coming to fruition.

Two years on, the group has now become a constituted group working alongside other local volunteer organisations on restoration projects, education and awareness of wildlife for local families and conser- vation of the abundant wildlife which is now flourishing along the canal. Pathways have been laid to provide better access for all abilities, rubbish bins have been erected and three wooden seats have been placed in strategic beauty spots along the route. Overhanging intrusive trees near Lock 6 have been removed and pathways are regularly strimmed and cleared. The result has been a decline in litter, antisocial behaviour and dog mess and a wildlife haven which is now attracting visitors and interest from all over the UK and photographers keen to snap a great shot of birds, amphibians, insects, butterflies, mammals and fish.

One of the greatest success stories of this work has been the increase in the Water Vole population which is one of the UK’s fastest declining mammals. The native Water Vole (Arvicola Amphibious) is thriving along this stretch of the canal, and as a result this year hundreds of local visitors have been able to see them in action.

Earlier this year the group purchased** a ‘Muck Truck Power Barrow’ which is affectionately known as ‘Max’ and its been a very busy year for the newest member of the group. Max has already helped to lay tons of stone, all of which has been kindly donated by Longcliffe Quarries and the company are continu- ing to support the group.

Some of the volunteers with their latest recruit “Max” Pathways have been laid to provide better access for all abilities. Both photographs by Andy Moon Andrew said, “I had no idea that something so small could turn into something that now brings us so much joy and satisfaction. It’s a credit to the hard work of the volunteers who turn up, rain or shine, to help and to all of the local residents and visitors who have taken ownership and responsibility for the area. I am overjoyed to see how much we have achieved so far but I am even more encouraged by what we have planned and can’t wait to see what happens’.

Andy also said ‘Everyone we speak to is now noticing that there has been significant improvements and that is all we wanted to happen: for people to want to look after something of our own and take pride in our beautiful surroundings’

This year alone we have laid over 30 tonnes of stone, relaying 300 yards of pathway to increase safety and access for all, apple trees have been planted, reeds in the canal have been cleared, new litter and dog bins have been installed which are emptied weekly, information signs have been put up to tell visitors about Photo: Roger Breen Photo: Marie Brown Water Voles, three bespoke wooden seats have been made Careful and considered conservation by the group has led to an increase in local wildlife population including the water vole and the orange tip butterfly. and installed at key beauty spots, a flower garden has been installed wild flowers have been planted, years of old rubbish has been removed from the canal, path edges have been cleared and strimmed and regular litter picks take place. All of this has led to an increase in visitor numbers but a drastic and measurable decline in dog waste, litter and anti-social behaviour.

The group are currently working on an information leaflet which will be available by the end of Summer with a map detailing specific spots of interest and species habitat sites.

If you are also inspired to get involved, then please get in contact with the group at [email protected] and see what a difference you could make to your local area or add us on facebook: Cromford Canal & Codnor Park Res. The group are also happy to lead walks and give you information on any species .... if we don’t know it, we’ll know someone who does.

The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust would also welcome you to their site where we hope you will enjoy learning more about this fantastic resource that we have on our doorstep and of course, all about the rest of this beautiful area’s wildlife and natural treasures. www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

** Aviva Community Fund donated £1,000 in the Community Support Category after 1,493 votes were received. View here at www.community-fund.aviva.co.uk/voting/project/view/17-3651

Water Voles Mating .... a rare site indeed by Andy Moon Wed. Mornings 10am - 12pm in the Church Hall  Pam 01773 689414 for further details A fun and friendly group for people of

all ages and skills All you crafters come and join us for a morning of crafting of your own choice . . . or why not learn a new one. We enjoy helping each other. We do anything from felting, quilting, crochet, knitting and any other craft that we can think up!

This beautiful autumn leaf quilt made by the group was raffled to raise £200 to support the Baptist Church in Belper in setting up coffee afternoons for people with dementia.

. . . . and then there is Dominoes too Julian's Column I recall the story of a couple who had been married for 50 years and were enjoying a quiet evening at home reminiscing. Suddenly the wife said “do you remember the good old days when you used to sit next to me on the sofa and cuddle me”. “I can sort that out” said the husband as he moved onto the sofa and gave his wife a great big hug. Then she said, “do you re- member how you used to nibble my neck to drive me wild”. The husband got up to leave the room and his wife asked where he was going. “Upstairs to fetch my teeth” he said.

Often when I take funerals the family reminisce about the good old days of summer holi- days with their deceased loved ones, and it may well be that you have fond memories of the summer holidays this year in the record temperatures. The bible talks about the wis- dom that comes with old age; In one of the books of the bible (Proverbs 20:29) it says “The glory of young men is their strength, grey hair the splendour of the old”. So as we sit and think back to the good old days, perhaps if we are young we can value those who are older than us, and if we are older then we can recognise the wisdom from experience that we can offer to the younger generation.

A prayer: Lord thank you for the wisdom that comes from experience. Help me to listen to, and learn from those who have known you longer than I have. Amen. Rev. Julian Penfold

Clowns Children's Centre Over the summer term we were learning about the lifecycle of a caterpillar. We looked after our caterpillars, watching the changes they made into beautiful butterflies. We released all of them in our garden. They enjoy flying in the wild! After a short time one even came back to see the children! On July 3rd we dug up the po- tatoes and onions we planted earlier in May. The children all enjoyed look- ing after these crops - giving them lots of water to drink every day, and watching them grow. Both morning and afternoon sessions did the activity and all tried some of the lovely potato salad. We also added some chives from our own herb garden too! It was very tasty If you would like to find out more about the activities we do and are inter- ested in a place for your child please contact the nursery on 01773 540050. We would be happy to show you around so you can see how much fun the children have learning through play. We offer places for children who are eligible for 2 year funding and for all 3 and 4 year olds. News from the Train by Michelle Goodall, youth worker at the Train Carriage Youth Club

“Are you still working at the Train?” Is a question I get asked on a weekly basis, followed by “I can’t believe you’re still there” and I think “Why? Why would I want to leave the Train, it’s a brilliant place to work.”

I first started in 2003 , following in the footsteps of previous workers who after only one session had decided the Train wasn’t for them, on my first evening there I managed to dodge the white pool ball being thrown at my head , it was a rubbish throw to be fair. I returned for a second session, survived that one and the rest is history.

I wanted to work with young people in my village, to give something back to the community I grew up in, I wanted to be a voice for young people, to listen to them, to give them help , guidance and support to achieve, but more importantly I just wanted to be there for them.

So here I am 15 years later and I’ve seen lots of young people grow up, become adults, and achieve success, and I love the fact they still come down to the Train for five minutes now and again to show me their babies, or wedding photos, to tell me they have a job or to show me their new car. They say to me “I was a handful wasn’t I?, but you never gave up on me, and look what I’m doing now.” That’s why I’m still at the Train.

It’s 20 years this year since the Train was opened, and I was hoping to have a celebration event and to coincide that with our refurbishment opening but even though the Train has had lots of work done on it to make it safe we still have hoops to jump through before we can re-open, but hopefully not much longer, fingers crossed.

Back in March we held a fundraising event at the church hall in Ironville to raise much needed funds for the Train, a massive thank you to Natasha who organised this, it was a great success and very well supported, I would like to thank everyone who came along that day and showed their support.

Down at the Train we absolutely loved working in the warm sunshine, lots of young people playing sports on the courts, and the youth work team were busy supplying them with cold water, ice lollies and fruit.

In July we had a stadium tour of Pride Park, courtesy of Derby County Community Trust, we had an excellent and knowledgeable tour guide who kept us entertained with behind the scenes football tactics. We had a look in the changing rooms, held our own press conference in the media room and sat in Frank Lampard’s seat in the dugout, a great time was had by all.

We were lucky enough to be given some funding for trips by Paul at Jacksdale MOT centre, he paid us a visit at the Train, was impressed with what he saw , and decided to make a donation. As a result of this we were able to book a few trips, something that we hadn’t been able to do before.

So in August we went bowling at Ilkeston. We had a great time trying to beat each other and get a strike, or bowling the fastest ball, everyone was so competitive.

We are going to Swadlincote to the Ski centre to take part in tobogganing, snow tubing and zip wire during the last week of the summer holidays, and we have plans to go to foot golf soon too, so a big thanks to Paul for his generosity.

Derby County Community Trust gave us free tickets to sit in the East stand at Pride Park in August and watch the mighty Rams beat Preston 2-0, cheered on by our enthusiastic Derby County supporters from the Train, another great day out.

Andy is the sports worker for Derby County Community Trust, he is down every Thursday on the courts at Deepdale, it’s a popular session and well attended, he facilitates sports and football, and encourages the young people to take part, he is a great asset to what we do at the Train and well-liked by the young people. November 11th 2017 WALK ON WALKING GROUP All of our walks are free of charge and are led by qualified walk leaders. New walkers are always wel- come. There is no need to book - just turn up in sensible shoes. Our local walks begin at Jacksdale car park at 10am on Tuesday mornings. We have two levels of walks, one for people who want to walk for the exercise, but cannot cope with stiles etc. This walk lasts 1 hour. The longer walk takes around 2 hours. It’s surprising how many different walks are available from Jacksdale. We have back markers to allow all to walk at their own pace (no fear of being left behind). We are a very sociable group; it is a good way of meeting new friends as you walk and talk. The community centre is open for coffee, tea and snacks on a donation basis for charity when we return. We are always made very welcome and the choice of food is amazing. We also walk on Mondays and Wednesdays from various venues. A programme is available with all venues and meeting points (including post codes for sat navs). Bus trips are organised three times a year. We do not organise walks on these days out, they are just pleasure trips for you to choose to do whatever you prefer.

It is a real struggle to get up the steep slope just over the The group explore the wildlife of the Forge with the support of board walk and on to the Forge. For many members of walk leader Joan Colebrook. A diverse range of butterflies and the group it is impossible to climb. It will make the Forge moths have been spotted this year. Regular surveys are car- site much more accessible for all when the proposed new ried out by the new owners of the site. steps are constructed.

Carriages Youth Dan Snow at Codnor Castle Club, Deepdale "known locally as the Train " The Youth Club offers a range of activities that young people have planned and organised with Dan Snow on Twitter @thehistoryguy June25 2018 youth workers. Just been shown around this beauty by the Codnor Tues., Thurs. & Fri. Castle Heritage Trust team, who are doing their best to evenings 6.00pm save it for the nation. Fascinating place. It's fortunes until 8pm mirror the medieval, colonial and industrial history of Contact: Britain.” He went on to mention the Castle a lot in his Neil Onyon on talk at Derby Theatre the following evening and has offered to help the trust if they need it 01629 533625

CODNOR CASTLE EVENTS

Open every second Sunday of each month 11am until 3pm At Christ Church ALL WELCOME. On offer are guided tours of the castle

Ironville and refreshments including home made cakes and treats for a donation. This is a great opportunity to learn more about nd September 22 the history of this very special castle, once visited by kings

10am - 4pm and the powerful De Grey Family who lived there. Merchandise is also for sale: the Free Admission Codnor Castle booklet, replica gold  Registers noble coins, tea towels, fridge mag-

 Records nets and key rings. Private bookings

 Artefacts are available for groups, schools and

 Memorabilia colleges. Please contact the Codnor

& much more Castle website for more details.

Refreshments available in the Church Hall Why not visit the web site: www.codnorcastle.co.uk

The Lock Keepers Garden, Lock 4, Ironville

In spite of the extreme weather, the Lock Keepers Garden has produced some good crops this year and attractive flowers. Many visitors have also been attracted to the garden as you can see in the picture. Veggie boxes

have also been delivered to the OAP centre where they have been really appreciated.

Coach Road Train by Colin Whitehouse

This is a photo of my dad, George Whitehouse, who worked for Butterley Engineering from around 1953 -1965.

He drove the engine pictured right. This engine was based in the Codnor Park Forge and Wagon Shop Site. When required he would drive the train to Butterley Engineer- ing, Ripley.

The train line ran alongside the Coach Road.

I remember when it was an extremely cold winter, me and my dad would catch the bus from Leabrooks to Ironville and walk to the Forge Site on (Saturday and Sunday) and he would make a fire in a 45 gallon drum to keep the train shed warm, to prevent the engine from freezing. I don’t think this would be allowed today with “Health and Safety” rules!!

The Story behind the Engine (with thanks to Ian Castledine & Geoff Griffiths)

The 0-4-0ST engine, (driven by George Whitehouse and shown above was delivered new to Butterley in 1939 and numbered No BC53 from Peckett and Sons of Bristol), it was allocated to Butterley Works at Ripley where it appears to have remained until it was transferred to Cod- nor Park Forge in 1952. However it was sold in 1954 to W Bush & Son Ltd (Plant & Scrap Dealer), at Somercotes. It was resold from there to the Skinningrove Iron Company for further use. Therefore the picture above must have been taken pre sale to Bush in 1954.

It appears that Butterley also disposed of two later Pecketts BC54 and BC55 in 1954 and 55 respectively, both to the NCB (National Coal Board), BC54 again via Bush at Somercotes.

These more recent 0-4-0ST Pecketts below and later large 0-6-0ST Pecketts/Bagnalls were probably seen as necessary to replace the aged fleet of Butterley Built and earlier Peckett built locomotives in the drive for more output from the Butterley collieries and Work- shops during the WW2 years, the total fleet was spread as far afield as Ollerton, Ormonde, Bailey Brook and Langley as well as in the Rip- ley area. Butterley had a substantial local fleet of locomotives at work in the Codnor Park & Ripley Area , many primarily allocated to the network of colliery lines surrounding Ripley. The vast majority of Butterley locomotives A picture of 1961 of 1939 at its new home at passed to the NCB with nationalisation in 1947. Skinningrove Ironworks named ELIZABETH II. BC53 when based at Butterley Works was likely to have undertaken shunting duties at the Hartshay, Denby Hall, Ripley and Brittain collieries delivering coal to the LMS exchange sidings at Denby Hall, Swanwick Jn as well as shunting duties at Butterley works and trip work between the Ripley and Codnor Park Forge down Golden Valley. There would also have been shunting duties at Waingroves for the brick works. Post NCB nationalisation there would have been little use for the bigger engines not taken by the NCB and this probably resulted in their move to the forge at Codnor Park in 1952 where there might be more need of the bigger locos, but even then it appears there was little use for them and all were sold by 1955 having been superseded by a small fleet of F.C Hibberd Planet Diesel locos which would have been economically more viable than maintaining a fleet of steam engines on standby.

The Butterley Company railway up to the formation of the NCB primarily extended from Buckland Hollow in the West to Codnor Park Forge in the East with the mainline along the valley passing through Hartshay, Butterley & Golden Valley with branches off to Ripley thence to Waingroves and Marehay. and a further Branch to Brittain Colliery and the Butterley Park Pits and Pumping station.

As for when the line fell out of use between Codnor Park and Butterley is not clear, the tracks were still there at Golden Valley in 1973 but the general consensus seems to be that that traffic on the route had mostly finished by the mid 1960s.

A Goods train going down the edge of the coach road - dates many years earlier. You can just make out the steam from the engine (left) and see the waggons, (right). The trucks are painted M.R. (Midland Rail- way) so this could predates 1923 when the M.R was absorbed into the newly formed L.M.S. However, the MR on the wagons does not guarantee the photo to be pre 1923. The repainting of the railway stock, 1000's of locos, station signs, carriages and humble mineral wagons would have taken many years.

ANNOUNCEMENT - BREAKING NEWS – From the Cromford Canal & Codnor Park Res Group “We have just heard that the group have been awarded the sum of £940 towards some fancy display boards down the by the canal from Persimmon Homes. These initiatives are working in the background and we will soon have them up for everyone to enjoy.

Without you, our supporters and the volunteers that do all the work, this would not be possible.”

Marie Brown News from the Forge - by Dave Fisher

This year has been a period of discovery for Friends of Belper Parks Ltd. (FoBP Ltd.) the owners of The Forge. In March we became a Charity registered with HMRC and can now claim tax back on donations. The Coal Authority fenced in four dangerous mineshafts to stop people falling into the mines. On 20th May we held a very successful open day (see page 7) with the help of Friends of The Forge and E.M. Butterfly Conservation. The latter carried out wildlife walks and Fred Leighton came to talk about the history of the site. Out in force on the day were Dingy Skipper butterflies far too many to count as they flew around the grassland at a great rate of knots. Dingy Skipper is a rare species of butterfly and is a UKBAP listed butterfly. BAP= Biodiversity Action Plan.

We held a Sunflower Growing Competition which raised £142 to buy wildflower seed for The Forge. The winner was Floryn who is rising 4! She was very excited at having won the competition. Her Sunflower won by just 4”.

The Forge is a registered Local Wildlife Site. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust carried out a survey of the wildlife in The Forge in June. We should get the results soon. There were plenty of Small Heath butterflies (another UKBAP species) around during the survey. In August Clouded Yellow butter- flies arrived a rare migrant butterfly in the UK. This was the first year these migrant butterflies from Europe have been seen here for many years.

The Clouded Yellow caused a lot of interest about the site at the BBC. East Midlands Today came to shoot some videos for the programme on 24th August, and Radio Derby came to interview us on the 23rd, the day they contacted us!

We have been successful in applying for grants £100 from Nottinghamshire Wild life Trust, £371 from the North of England Horticultural Society both to buy wildflower seed and £700 from Ibstock Country Fair. We have yet to decide what to buy with the money. Dave Fisher, one of the landowners with Ken

Orpe from Butterfly Conservation and the gentle- A surprisingly successful 8 months! men from the BBC - Below - Interview in progress

Dave and volunteer Shirley Bullock in conversation with a visitor on a litter pick in Canyon Wood. (24th June 2018)

THE ANVIL CLUB

The Anvil Club is open every evening between 8.00pm and Midnight (Thursdays & Fridays 7.30pm to 12am - Saturday & Sunday 12pm - 12am) The Anvil Club is the

perfect place for your

functions. Where you can celebrate those special times or hold important meetings.

A cosy place, to enjoy a pint of good bitter ale with a welcoming atmosphere. A great place for a game of Pool too. With Your host Maria serving ales clear and bright. There is a children’s games room too with Pool and Football, tables. With 5’s & 3’s (Dominoes) on Mondays Contact Maria McCormack on 01773-689559 or 07816-439881 The Anvil Club, Casson Street, Ironville, Nottingham, NG16 5NN

Ironville and Codnor Park School’s Research Project - Radishes

On Tuesday 5th June Eagles class went to the Lock Keeper’s Garden to grow some different varie- ties of radish. They wanted to find out which is the best all round radish to grow in the garden. Once they arrived at the garden they were met by Andy Cadman, and received a bean seed to learn about the growth of plants. When the class had learnt about the seed, Mr Cadman explained about the different plants that were growing in the garden. After Mrs Bowler and Mrs Hewes handed out radish seeds, that the children chose in school earlier that morning, Mr Cadman showed everyone how to sow the seeds in the drill. Once they had planted the children seeds they picked some radishes to take back to school. Overall the class enjoyed planting radish seeds that they will hopefully pick in 5 – 6 weeks. Written by Ellie and Lottie - (The results of the trial can be found on the next page).

On Monday 9th July, Eagles class returned to the Lock Keepers garden, where they had sown some radishes five weeks previ- ously. As soon as they arrived, Mr Cadman showed everyone how all the different types of plants had developed since their last visit. Once they collected samples of the different plants, Mr Cadman taught the class how to harvest their radishes. After Eagles pulled their radishes, they exited the garden and made their way back to school ready to conduct further tests on the radishes back at school. Now how do we find out which is the best radish? First we decided to weigh the radish to discover which variety produces the heaviest crop, working out the average weight. Next we went on to work out which had the best flavour and which was the crunchiest. We then made up a table to make comparison easy: Harvesting the radishes Variety Mean Mean Mean Fla- Crunc- Total weight length width vour hiness Points (g) (mm) (mm) (points) (points) Cherry 12 27.5 17.5 16 15 31 Belle China 2 10 7.5 14 12 26 Rose Mooli 4 85 5 29 29 58 Purple 28.5 45 27 28 21 49 Plum Sparkler 14 30 21.5 14 23 37 Scarlet 16 31.5 22.5 30 16 46 Globe French 13.5 60 11.5 10 14 24 Breakfast

Conclusion - Our recommendations for Mr Cadman and Newsletter readers

We felt that the best variety to grow would be Mooli, as it has the most points, therefore the best features that are required for your crop, howev- er you may want to consider Scarlet Globe because it was voted the radish with most flavour. Why not try some rad- ishes in your gardens and fol- low our advice. They are so Mooli was the winner - “pure white easy to grow. roots with a crisp, mild flavour that

Taste Trials / Recording Results Eagles Class won't go pithy.”

Spring Litter-pick at Codnor Park Reservoir by John Guyler

Ten volunteers from the Friends of the Cromford Canal, had a very difficult day because of the poor weather, litter picking and rubbish clearing, work- ing along the abandoned section from the car park westward, adjacent to Coach Road up to the met- al walkway that crosses the reservoir feeder.

It was difficult because of the amount of water in the old canal bed was far more than normal, which made access to the edge directly along the road limited.

There was only a very small area which was inaccessible because the water level prevented access and the road was considered too dangerous to work from, this small area was revisited when the water level had gone down.

After lunch, work commenced eastwards from the car park entrance, following the Coach Road wall until nearly opposite the Pinxton Arm Bridge.

A total of 54 bags of various litter and rubbish and a large amount of discarded car body parts, approx. 30 feet of garden hose, two gas cylinder bottles, several VW wheel trims, loads of bottles and an animal skull, probably a hare, were collected. In total 53.5 volunteer hours were achieved to collect this very large amount of litter in such a short distance.

One observation concerning the plastic litter, which several people remarked on, was bio-degradable plastics and things such as coffee cup plastic lids, when gripped by the litter pickers, just broke up into a lot of smaller pieces, causing more work and concern about their effect on the location. It was also very evident that a lot of this rubbish had been there a considerable time. This work-party was in addition to the regular work-parties that the Friends of Cromford Canal work at regular times on the section from the Pinxton Arm Bridge down to Lock 5 at the railway bridge.

If anyone wishes to join and help on a regular basis at Ironville or at any of the other sites that the FCC work on, please contact; John Barker by Email: [email protected]

IRONVILLE RAILWAY CARRIAGE (or as some refer to it “The Train”) There it stands, yes the Railway Carriage, on its bogies on a portion of railway track, beyond the hard-core play area, a part of the recreation ground off Deepdale; and that’s where it has stood for some twenty years. The Carriage, owned by Ironville & Codnor Park Community Association is leased to Derbyshire County Council to serve as a youth club facility for the benefit of the young people of the village. And yes, for a good many, (perhaps now with their own children), the Carriage has fond memories. By virtue of the County Council’s “involvement” in the Carriage, last autumn (and unbeknown to the Association) they instigated an inspection of the property by one of their surveyors who felt that some remedial work was necessary You may recall seeing a photograph in the last Newsletter, showing something of the interior of the premises and some of the remedial work involved. Unfortunately, such information was not passed on to the Association until earlier this year, but since then every stop has been pulled out and, as the saying goes, there’s been no expense spared; and here a note of appreciation has been expressed to County Cllr Paul Smith for his generous support. By sourcing out and using local craftsmen and local companies, the Carriage now has some new flooring, the electrics have been checked and electric heating installed, there’s a new kitchen unit and cupboard facilities as well as a new cloakroom, and the interior has been painted. And not least, what was once the brick-paved area outside, this has now been tarmacked. The Community Association have spent a lot of money on the premises and everyone agrees, the premises really do look good, Since the completion of the remedial work there has been a further surveyor’s inspection, and at the time of writing, that report is eagerly awaited!! The Association’s proposal now is that with the interior of the Carriage becoming an excellent resource, it could be possible to make these facilities available to other organisations as well as the youth club, (mother and toddler groups, junior youth club, to name but two,) as well as for such occasions as (birthday) parties – just look at the outdoor facilities available – all that space, as well as the amenities on the recreation ground. The mind boggles at the prospects!! Anyone interested in using the Carriage should make contact with the Community Association’s Chairperson, Mrs Pam Cope, telephone 01773 606454. Numerous references have been made to the Ironville & Codnor Park Community Association – the owners of the Railway Carriage. The organisation started as a voluntary group with the aim of raising funds in order to provide some form of suitable premises where the youngsters of the village could enjoy appropriate youth facilities. It was as a result of these people’s endeavours that the railway carriage was brought to Ironville those twenty years ago. Since its formation people have moved on, (some have passed away), and the Association is now in need of some new “blood”, in other words more volun- teers. The fully constituted body meets some four times a year transacting whatever business is deemed necessary. Again, any prospective volunteers, please contact Pam Cope, 01773 606454, who will be only too happy to answer any queries you Paul, Michael and Pam enjoying the may have regarding the Association and its functioning. facilities of the newly refurbished As a post script: Railway Carriage Youth Club. It does have to be stressed that, despite the temporary loss of certain amenities over the past months, with the valued help and support of the leaders, members of the youth club have continued to meet each week, making full use of the facilities available on the floodlit hard-core play area. To members, and not least to the leaders, the Association offers sincere appreciation for the continued support shown. Update on page 28 . . .

Ironville & Codnor Park School Kestrels class go on a Butterfly Hunt Kestrels met with a local butterfly expert Pete Clark, to go on a butterfly hunt around the local forge site. The sun shone as they made their way along the canal path, perfect conditions for finding butterflies. They were lucky enough to see a huge variety includ- ing Common Blue, Large Skipper, Large White Ringlets and Meadow Browns. In the safety of the school grounds, the day finished with a campfire, and toasted marshmallows. They all had a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Making Music is Fun!

Can you name a fun and worthwhile activity that helps your child (or you) to concentrate, focus, com- municate better, improve self-awareness, self-esteem, coordination and co-operation, build patience, mental endurance and self-confidence too?

Learning to play a musical instrument does all of the above, and more.

Jackie is a local music teacher, who has been teaching piano and keyboard for over 20 years. She also works part-time at a local ‘special’ school, leading music activities for the children, and was formerly employed as a music tutor by Notts. County Council Performing Arts.

Jackie lives in Brinsley, but her mother’s family lived and worked in Iron- ville. “My great-grandparents married in Ironville Church, on Christmas Day 1894 and my Great-Uncle Billy worked at the ironworks.”

She has now given up her full-time job to concentrate on private teaching. “I love teaching music, and work with students of all ages, from 5 to 80+. I even have a couple of granddad and grandson duo’s, and we enjoy singing, playing percussion and even the ukulele!”

Jackie lives at Brinsley, so get in touch to arrange to pop over for a chat and free first lesson, with absolutely no obligation at all.

Rates are very reasonable, and it might just be the new hobby you, or your child, are looking for.

Call or text on: 07840 972 904 Our local school in the news

The OAP Centre really appreciated their special extra perfor- mance too

A school to be proud of- superstars - all of them.

CODNOR PARK Christ Church RESERVOIR Fishing in well

stocked water

 Alan Birks:

07941 824374 Rev Mark Taylor  Eddie Harvey:  01773 833280 07715497310 Rev Julian Penfold

WATERS EDGE  07932 564888 Warden: BURGER BAR David Fearn Drinks, hot and  01773 605447

cold food available. Services: Open Wed - Sun Sunday at 11.00am: Parish Communion 7.30am -1 pm

Holy Communion Angie Harvey: (BCP) at 9.15am, 07899 095758 (2nd Wednesday) Whether Lawn Bridge or . . . When can we have our bridge back? The editor recently attended this meeting at County Hall, Matlock called by Cllr Paul Smith:

Committee Room Three, County Hall, Matlock, DE4 3AG

Following the meeting this is what he concluded: The Lawn Bridge Project is currently in limbo land. It is still official Derbyshire County Council policy to build a bridge. However, the current administration at County Hall do not seem prepared to provide the necessary funding to take the project forward to the next stage and its future success. It feels like it will be under review in perpetuity.

The Lawn Bridge Working Party has put in many years

of hard work and effort. Will these plans ever come to fruition?

Crossings Club Monument Lane

 01773 602346

Bingo (Various Saturdays); Snooker & Pool; Snacks; Licensed Bar; Games Machines; Live Acts & Groups ; Breakfasts (Saturday 9am); Free Function Room for those special occasions; Live Sports on Big Screen; Thurs - Food - 6pm - 9pm; Band Night (Fri. pm); Sunday - meat and beer draw and a Poker School

Arty Party is an arts and craft club where people of any age and ability can come and have fun with their artistic side whether it be making jewellery, junk modelling, painting or drawing. It doesn’t matter if you’re good at art or not, everyone is treated there as equal and we all bring ideas of what we can do. We all come up with ideas on what to make and do, the children learn how to plan their own days activities which helps them to gain confidence.

Tracey and Amy (left) are string painting. They are covering the string with paint to make inter- esting patterns on paper. By folding the paper they can make lots of different patterns. Amy particularly likes making flower shapes. Why not join in the fun. Just pop in on a Saturday from 2pm till 4pm at Ironville Church Hall. It is £2 per person or £6 per family, under 3 year olds are free. All children under 16 years old will need to have a suitable adult as we cannot be responsible for younger children. All children will get a free drink of juice and tea and coffee with a snack is 50p each.

Community Diner - Our Super Kitchen

A place for people to eat a meal: affordably, socially and for environmental benefit. This event takes place in the Church Hall, Casson Street, lronville on Wednesdays between 4pm and 6pm. Adults £3.50 /

Children £2.50 / Families £10.00.

Project leaders Tina & Rachel welcome you all to come and dine with us. You can contact

Rachel on 07727 141216.

Delivery is available for a small charge of 50p - Ring Tina on 07510 646224

We would like to thank the village and users for there support and we would also like to thank Pete and Kristen for their loyal support in helping us to thrive. IRONVILLE & CODNOR PARK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

No, it’s not April 1st – (April Fool’s Day,) this is serious, breaking news; a sad day for the young folk of Ironville now that the Conservative controlled Derbyshire County Council have served notice on the Community Association that they are relinquishing their lease of the Rail- way Carriage youth club premises as of 8th October – in other words, from that date onwards they no longer wish to be responsible for the pro- vision of youth service (youth club) facilities in Ironville.

The Carriage (the Train) provided and owned by the Community Association, has been in place, serving as a youth club facility for some twenty years, and it was In May 2000 that the County Council signed a formal document with the Association whereby leasing the use of the Carriage in order for them to be the providers of youth activities at the premises. And that’s how things have progressed ever since. As outlined in another article in this publication (Ironville Railway Carriage) the Association have in the past months, (encouraged by the Council,) spent a considerable amount of money on the premises in order for the young people to be able to use it once again, but now the devastating bombshell. Ironville, regarded as one of the most deprived areas in the county, a locality very much in need of whatever support it can be given, not least to members of the younger generation it seems is now being forsaken, abandoned by the Authority. Surprise, surprise, the Council didn’t even make their own youth leaders aware of the decision in advance of the announcement!!

What’s going to happen in the immediate (or indeed long term) future at this time, no one knows. Representations have and continue to be made to the departments concerned in an attempt to try and have the decision re- versed. County Councillor Paul Smith, the Authority’s delegated representative on the Association was quite unaware of the Council’s decision until the announce- ment was made on 31st August, but since then he too has been working striving vigorously to encourage those concerned to have a change of heart.

Be assured, the Community Association will not give up on its commitment to the young folk; news of whatever kind will be made known

somehow or other. In the meantime, if anyone feels inclined towards making their views known to those in Left to right Michelle Goodall (Youth Leader), Michael Blount, authority, perhaps Facebook or Pam Cope and George Jones of the Community Association enjoy the facilities of the newly refurbished Train Carriage Youth Twitter might be the appropriate Club. All are aghast that this vital village facility is under threat. avenues to do just that!! N.B. This information is correct at the time of going to print on 8th Sept. Former Local Runner moves up into elite athletics

Some of our readers may remember Ben Connor formerly of Monument Lane, on his training runs locally in the village and around the Res.

Ben’s best yet after “amazing” taste of the Euros

It was mixed feelings for Derbyshire runner Ben Connor at the European Championship after he recorded a personal best time but finished 11th in the 5000m.

The British team has enjoyed plenty of long-distance success. In recent years with the supremacy of Sir Mo Farah but now is time for a new generation and 25-year-old Connor is at the forefront.

The Derby Athletic Club runner set a new Personal Best of 13:29.35 in Dublin In July but was clearly inspired by the elite field, coming in at 13:25.31. Connor’s team-mates Marc Scott and Chris Thompson finished fifth and ninth but Norway’s Jakob Ingrebrigtsen, 17, took victory just in front of brother Henrik.

“It was fast - which I was happy about, someone had to take it on which I wanted anyway,’ said Connor.”

I ran a PB in the final so-I wanted to finish higher up than I did but I’ve run quicker than I ever have done before, so I can’t complain too much I guess!

“It’s the first time I’ve been at a championships like this, with 60,000 people. When I walked out it just kind of shook me, to be honest. It’s amazing - amazing to be here. It’s good championship experience.” Jakob Ingebrigtsen became the youngest man ever to break the four-minute mile, at the age of 16, but Connor may not be competing against the new superstar of European athletics for much longer, Ben Connor according to his plans. taking the

“I don’t see myself as a 5k runner going forward,” senior title at Connor added. “But I know I have to do this to im- the ECCA prove my speed to do what I want to in future. National Cross “I want to move to the roads but I’m still 25 and want Country to see what I can do on the track before I move up.” Championships

(This article is adapted from a recent article that in 2017. appeared in the Derby Evening Telegraph, passed on to the Editor by Pam Chaplin)

Borough Election Results May 2018

Our wonderful local range of flora and fauna is attracting more and more of this species to our village: “The Wildlife Photographer.” Lauren Monks School of Dance

This is a new dance school based in Ironville and Pinxton. We have dance classes for all ages from 3 years to 93 and specialise in Ballroom, Latin and Sequence. We have been open for almost a year and a half now and in November, 31 of our students took their Medals tests and all passed (see picture below). Dancing is a great way to make new friends, a fun way to exercise and a chance to try something new out. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have a partner, we switch between ourselves and even do a class that is dancing solo. We are always adding new classes. For more information about our classes please visit our Facebook page ‘Lauren Monks School of Dance’, Email: [email protected] or Phone: 07812 994066

Children’s Classes: Ironville Church Hall Every Thursday Under 8s: 5:00pm-5:45pm Over 8’s: 6:00pm-6:45pm £3.50 per class First class free!

Local Kickboxing Classes With Shane Holmes (For children only 5 - 15)

Temporally suspended - watch the Crossings Club

Facebook page for possible restart dates and times.

Regular attendance at kickboxing classes helps children to learn the effective self-defence skills that they need to stay safe. At the same time they will get fit and develop the skills they need to have a successful, fulfilling, and happy life. Skills such as Patience,

Concentration, Leadership, Self-Discipline & Self-Control.

A WINDOW INTO THE QUATREFOIL by Rokia Brown - Chairperson of the Codnor Castle Heritage Trust

Volunteers at Codnor Castle have unearthed an important artefact which will help them learn more about the 11th century medieval castle. During the summer of July 2013 a strange shaped stone was noticed by Tom Saint, a former trustee’s son. The arch shaped stone was being used as a stepping stone at the back of the old barn next to Castle Farm. It was immedi- ately brought to the attention of the Trust and along with Mercian Archaeology the Trust recorded and unearthed the stone. What was revealed on the other side exceeded our expectations as we gazed Rokia and Andy Gaunt of Mercian for the first time at a beautifully carved Archaeology Unearthing the Quatrefoil symbol known as a Quatrefoil.

Quatrefoil, which means four leaves from the Latin quattour (four) and folium (leaf), is a four leaved clo- ver design. The design was carved into a solid piece of stone which seems to be shaped into a gothic arch. In order to understand the quatrefoil unearthed at Codnor Castle, we need to examine its religious and symbolic meaning and to look at the origin of the window into which the quatrefoil was placed.

We can, as modern visitors simply admire the craftsmanship found in our ancient churches and cathe- drals. The symbols captured in the architecture convey hidden meanings which have been lost over time. As we may now focus on the aesthetic or the architectural merits of churches, historically, spiritual power changes over time as we alter the way we view the world. This had a profound effect on the de- velopment of Gothic architecture during the 13th and 14th centuries.

“A Quatrefoil by itself is nothing but a quatrefoil, but a circle containing a quatrefoil is a ‘Quatrefoil Circle’” This quatrefoil circle is significant in its biblical reference and where it belonged in relation to the Castle. The stone with the quatrefoil circle carving was found in the grounds of Codnor Castle. It is shaped to fit into a lancet window which came into use about 1170 and the evolution of plate tracery. The design of the quatrefoil itself is much older and altered significantly throughout the 13th and 14th centuries. Exam- ining the cusps and foliation gives excellent chronological evidence for dating the quatrefoil circle in rela- tion to the use and later elaborate foliation.

The last quarter of the 12th century, like the last quarter of the 11th century was a momentous period in English Mediaeval architecture. The latter was the English Romanesque period leading to the develop- ment of Gothic architecture, "where every arch was pointed and the semicircular window was extermi- nated" . The Codnor Castle quatrefoil possibly belonged in one of these early lancet windows.

It is highly important to note, in understanding the Codnor Castle Quatrefoil, the symbolic meaning of the four foils, the inner circle in the centre and the rings which surround them. For early Christians, symbols conveyed a deeper understanding of biblical teachings and were interwoven into Christian spiritual prac- tice which has been lost in the translation through time. This evidence in the quatrefoil circle itself places it within in St Nicholas Chapel which once stood somewhere on the Castle site.

The font and the carved head, which were also significant finds, should not be over looked. On examina- tion the Corbel Head and the Font are both believed to have belonged in the Chapel, and have a close relationship to the quatrefoil.

Development of Lancet Windows

The lancet window came into use around 1170 but its supremacy was challenged, first by plate tracery and then by bar tracery. Lancet windows were at first employed singly on the flanks of the church or in pairs in the end walls. The style of the lancet window is commonly known as the ‘Gothic Arch’. The word ‘gothic’ was originally a pejorative word coined by the humanists of the 15th century who thought that the architecture of the Middle Ages barbarous and essentially un-Christian . The traditional trademark of ‘Gothic’ is now represented as a pointed arch.

For hundreds of years the heads of windows remained semicircular (Romanesque) but eventually, over time, they became pointed thus producing the lancet window. Everywhere in the 13th Century the Eng- lish Lancet tended to differentiate itself from the French by its narrow and lofty shape giving the English Lancet its own unique identity (1). (See Oundle Aisle (French), Warmington Aisle). Even today one can say that a slender single lancet is a thing of beauty and elegance in itself, in comparison to any single lancet in the French design which is broader and ‘without grace’ . In England it was seen that the graceful single lancet could be composed into even more graceful groups and that group could be contrasted with other groups. The history of the window in England passed through stages of development during 13th century but the lancet window remained the most popular.

Symbolic Meaning of the Quatrefoil Circle

It has been stated that church imagery was the 'story book' for the illiterate, and there are many books that state this theory, however there are few or no images that can be understood without already knowing the stories that they represent. The reading of the Bible during the medieval period was very important. The lit- erate and illiterate alike would have been equally familiar with the basics. An image or symbol can express concepts that a thousand words cannot. They spring from a sense of sudden recognition, an image to con- template or to meditate upon as in the familiar practices of early medieval Christian worship.

Churches and Cathedrals are packed with meaning. In the words of St Thomas Aquinas "Man cannot under- stand without images". Symbols can express concepts which by definition we can only approach and not completely grasp. A symbol tries to express the inexpressible. A symbol may have the power to touch us at a depth which words cannot. Symbols are an ancient language rooted in practices and ideas that predate Chris- tianity. Numbers and shapes can be significant when incorporated into images. The quatrefoil circle has a number of interlocking meanings. To understand these representations we need to look at the binary language of the Bible and the significance of the number four, and the symbolic meanings of the rings, circles and wheels.

A STONE UNTURNED Whilst exploring its historic significance and its religious meanings, we can see that the Codnor Castle quatrefoil circle is early rather than late C13th. When we put the quatrefoil circle into context with the corbel head and the font with all the evidence given, it does seem to suggest that the Codnor Castle quatrefoil was carved somewhere in the first quarter of the C13th and could even be slightly earlier. (1150 – 1210)

The quatrefoil itself tells us so much about the status of the Castle at this time and is an integral part of the Castle’s history and a sig- nificant remnant of the little known Chapel of St Nicholas which once stood on the site.

The quatrefoil circle, the corbel head and the font are all in safe keeping in St James Church, Cross Hill, Codnor. How wonderful it is that they are all together again after all this time! Friends of Cromford Canal in Ironville by John Guyler

Friends of the Cromford Canal volunteers are a familiar sight working in Ironville - usually every second Wednesday of the month. What have they been “up to” just recently?

On Wednesday 6th June 2018 There was a FCC work-party at Ironville. A total of 12 FCC volunteers were involved. They produced 54 working hours with 9.75 travel hours. The groups are often split into smaller groups working in more than one location. On this day the groups were: Group 1; the essential task of clearing Himalayan Balsam near to Codnor Park Reservoir. This small group were on the annual summer sport of Himalayan Balsam removal and they managed a good area. This plant can reproduce rapidly and if it is not controlled it can rapidly clog up the canal, it successfully competes with our native plant species for space, light, nutrients and pollinators. When Himalayan balsam dies back in the winter, it can leave the banks bare of vegetation and liable to erosion. This year there seems to be more around, probably due to a particularly good growing season. Group 2; were fence painting with preservative, they managed the length of fencing on the towpath at locks 3 & 4, (approx. 120 metres), working on all the verticals inside and outside faces of the horizontals. Group 3; painted the towpath gate and adjacent ironwork at lock 4, (black with white overlay). Group 4; replaced 16 metres of fencing top rail on the section between lock 2 and approaching the old lock 1 site. The existing top rails were in poor condition so the decision was made to replace the worst section using the unused wood from the fence placement at lock 4, last Autumn. The new sections were nailed into place and the coupling straps placed as before. A job for the future. Some of the uprights on this section are showing serious signs of decay at ground level so it looks likely they will have to be replaced in the next couple of years.

Included in the above jobs: one small bag of litter, was collected. I hope it is a trend and not our imagination but the litter and dog fouling seems be at a low number of instanc- es. What-ever the reason it makes the area a more pleasant place to walk.

Wednesday 15th August 2018

The 12 FCC volunteers on this day gave 60.25 hours with 7 hours travel time. The main job for this work party was the painting of the fencing from where we left off at the last painting work-party, going up towards Codnor Park Reservoir. The main problem was to clear the brambles from the area of the fence posts and to allow painting behind the horizontal top rail and bottom boards. In all approx. 150m was painted. A total of 20 metres of top rail was identified as needing replacement, a request for the appropriate lengths was put in to Canal & River Trust and they will be fitted by a future work-party.

One bag from the dog fouling bin and another small bag of litter was removed during the day. Some of our volunteers taking a break on the Pinxton Arm canal bridge in Ironville. Why not join them? Everyone enjoys it and they contribute towards improving our local environment for wildlife and people alike. Try it once to see if you like it. To find out more please contact John Barker, FCC work-party leader via e-mail: [email protected] or telephone 07860632837 Pete’s Page by Pete Clark

THE TRAIN YOUTH CLUB. Have had £320 donated, to assist with repairs to the Railway Carriage that the Youth Club meet in. The Crossings Club held a Hawaiian Day, which despite a rain deluge halfway through the afternoon raised £200. Then “Friends of Ironville & Codnor Park” made an appeal and raised a further £135 for the Youth Club, making the total £335. In the photo Cathy Hughes (Crossings Club Stewardess) and Pete Clark (Friends of Ironville & Codnor Park) hand over the proceeds to the Com- munity Association who own the Carriage. (Pam Cope Chair, and Michael Blount Secretary/Treasurer are the happy recipients) Thank you to everyone who helped!

FORGE. Residents and visitors continue to enjoy this peaceful area, there is a thriving Fa- cebook Group with 275 members. If you use the Forge for walks and enjoy its tranquillity, plus its wildlife join “Forge Users Group (Codnor Park)” on Facebook. The beautiful and very rare (for the Midlands) Clouded Yellow butterfly has visited, and bred a East Midlands Today generation of Derbyshire born Clouded Yellow Evening News 24 Aug 2018 offspring! Easily 100 people have visited the Forge to witness this. People are still coming from Leicester, Sheffield, Lincoln & Uttoxeter for example. The BBC also came – see photos (TV studio) taken on the Forge!

RED PHONE BOX. The old 1930’s design kiosk at end of Coach Road is being restored by “Friends of Ironville & Codnor Park”. It is good that this neglected local landmark is being saved. If anyone can remember how long it’s been there, we’d love to know. We have obtained the correct paints, grey primer, phone box red, and gold for the crowns. We are re- placing all the clouded-up plastic windows with toughened glass. The scraping of all the old paint was tough, we used paint stripper, chisels and scrapers. There are 5 active volunteers and room for more!! The box is owned by the Community Heartbeat Trust who bought it from BT for just £1(!). It enhances our village environment and we reckon it will look fabulous when finished, at night as well as daytime.

June 2018

Aug 25 Primer coat

Local photographs by Roger Breen Breen by Roger photographs Local

Restocking the reservoir on 8th November 2017

Clerk: [email protected]  07595515154 Tues - Crooked Line Club 7.00-10.00pm All meetings take place at The Community Room, Victoria Dancing with Daz just for fun - free door prizes Crescent, Ironville, starting at 7.00 pm (See new website) Daz 07967760065 or Steve 07419323705 Every meeting includes a period for Public Participation at Wed am - Crafty Crafters & Dominoes which local residents are invited to attend - a time alloca- 10am - 12pm  Pam 01773 689414 (see page 12 ) tion of 15 minutes at the beginning of the meeting. The Wed pm - Community Meals - 4pm to 6pm next two meeting dates are: Social Eating Events - Adults £3.50 / Children £2.50 th Monday Nov 19 2018 Cllr Jack Brown Rachel & Tina  07727141216 (see page 27) Chairman th Thurs - Lauren Monk’s School of Dance Monday Jan 9 2018 Children’s Ballroom & Latin Classes

5 - 5.45pm up to 8 yrs ALSO 6 - 6.45 8+yrs

Lauren Monks - 07812994066 (see page 30)

Thurs - Taekwondo - 7 to 8.30 pm For all the family - adults and children. Here local residents have the opportunity to meet Dave Gregory 01773 609626 Cllr Paul Smith - County, Borough, & Parish Coun- Fri am English and Maths for Adults cillor together with Cllr Pam Cope (Parish Councillor) at their surgeries to raise any issues or concern. 9:30 till 11:30 For those who want to gain confidence in the skills needed for Maths and English in daily life. Saturday Nov 10 th

01773 832201 - This class is FREE at present. Telephone Cllr Smith Home: Friday - Line Dancing - 7.30 pm - 11 pm 01773 540345 or Crooked Line every 3rd Friday with . . . 07713 265670 for further details Daz.  07967760065 & Steve  07419323705 Sat pm - Art Club - Arty Party - 2pm - 4 pm Surgeries are at the OAP Community Centre, Victo- £2 per person or £6 per family (See page 27) ria Crescent, Ironville from 11:15am until 12:15pm.

 Tracey 07555584913

The Friends of the Cromford Canal Talks: Ironville Post Office  01773 605472 CRT Heritage Approach to Conservation Mon - Sat: Open 7am - 8 pm; Sunday: Open 8 am—12.30 On Monday 15th October starting at 7.30pm A talk by Ruth Garratt—Learn about Canal & River Trust’s work on conserving their historic structures, with emphasis on the East Midlands and the Cromford Canal

New Archive Photos of the Cromford Canal Victoria Crescent- Bookings  Pam Cope 01773 606454 on Monday November 19th starting at 7.30pm Mon: Gentle Movement - 10am - 11am A Slide show & talk by Hugh Potter (Chair based exercise  Miriam 07937 3495408) The admission charge for talks is £2 with a Bar, Mon: Coffee Morning & Bingo- 11am - 12pm Raffle & Sales Stand. All Welcome at both talks.

Tues: Money Bingo 7.30pm - 9pm Bookings Maria McCormack Friday - Prize Bingo 7.30p.m. - 9.00pm 01773-689559 or 07816-439881 (Do come along and join in with these community events)

Ideas and local information, news or events please e-mail:

Andy: [email protected] or text Tracey on 07555584913

This Newsletter has been supported by the D.C.C. Community Leadership Scheme

via Councillor Paul Smith th The next issue is due April 2019 - Deadline 7 March 2019 The views expressed in this Newsletter are not necessarily those of the Unicorns Editorial Team. We also make it clear that we reserve the right to refuse or edit items that are sent in.