Acorn Edition 65 Spring 2018 Aston Community Organisations Reviews & News

Village events Group meetings Easter services Sports report Local businesses and Tradesmen Three month Diary Page Valentine Day 14th February Mother’s Day 11th March Easter Day Sunday 1st April

Getting ready for Spring Friends of Aston Brickyard Plantation Winter gives us the opportunity to see the woodland without its coating of leaves and with a low sun in the sky there are some amazing photo opportunities around the perimeter trails. Squirrels are storing acorns, small mammals are searching out hibernation habitats and volunteers are pulling on extra layers as we continue to manage the site. The hazel groves are being coppiced to allow new growth in the spring, crowded trees are being thinned and saplings are being given space to grow by removing vegetation. We have had spectacular success this year in developing our pond and marsh areas, filled naturally through rainfall and ‘run-off’ and they look as though they’ve been there for ever. Aquatic life is burgeoning and we hope that the wild flower seeds planted around the perimeter and in the grasslands will survive the season and start to bloom next Spring. We’re also giving three enthusiastic young people the opportunity to undertake important conservation work as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Over three months they’ll be creating a new woodland ‘ride’, closed to people but opening up a wildlife corridor for flora and fauna. Follow us on Facebook ‘Aston Brickyard Plantation’ 2 Aston upon Trent Parish Council

Chairman: Cllr.Edward Hicklin, Vice Chair: Cllr.Tony Hurrell, Cllr.Catherine Alberts, Cllr Helen Cope. Cllr.Steve Graham, Cllr.Jean Longley, Cllr.Mike Selby. Cllr Chris Toon, Cllr Haydn Wheeler

No precept increase for 2018-19 The annual precept has been set with no increase. This is the part of your community tax which comes directly to the Parish Council and is used for improvement and projects within our village. Once the final bill for the development of the recreation centre, which is owned by the council and leased to Recreation in Aston, is finalised the council will be in a position to commit reserves to projects which will include: ● Complete resurfacing the playing field/recreation centre car park. ● Installation of a WW1 commemoration stone and appropriate trees at the Derby Road cemetery. ● The laying of artificial grass inside the playground area at the playing field. ● General improvements and maintenance around the playing field and Greatorex Walk. ● The purchase of new lights for the village Christmas tree. Reduced bus service. Many of you will be aware of the reduced bus service as from late November. This is ironic in view of recent housing developers stressing that our village is well served by public transport! The Council was disappointed that there was no consultation on this reduction but is aware that the service is a business and therefore must be financially viable, so the message is “use it or lose it”. Councillors have arranged an informal meeting with the company which runs the Sky service with a view to requesting that some of the evening buses pass through Aston. Change of Parish boundary? The Council is of the view that the parish boundary should now be reflected as the “settlement boundary” as outlined in the district council’s local plan parts 1 and 2. This would mean all of the Willow Park Way estate, Yates Avenue and the Richmond Village would be designated as being in the Aston parish. However we are informed that Weston parish council would oppose any such change. Preliminary discussions with the district council’s chief executive and Weston parish council are being arranged. A similar proposal was refused a few years ago by none other than the deputy prime minister! Recreation Centre – phase 11 development update. As with the development of older buildings, snags have appeared and the date for completion has been put back until March. Despite the disruption and mess the new part of the centre is functional and groups and sports teams are still continuing. The situation is regrettable but users will benefit in the long term. Lighting up for Advent. How splendid the village looked during Advent with many households lighting up their homes and gardens especially those who contributed to the village - advent - window - trail. We hope you appreciated the village Christmas tree AND the three reindeer who frequented the village green during the festive season. Both were funded by the council. Annual Parish Meeting.Tuesday 17th April @ 7.30pm. Once again invitations will be sent to village organisations and groups to send a representative to the annual parish meeting to report on their years activities. All parishioners are welcome to attend. The Council’s annual “Excellence in the Community Award” will be presented at the meeting. Supporting the Acorn Magazine. The Council is aware of the ever increasing costs of producing your free copy of the Acorn quarterly magazine and therefore has resolved to assist with costs for two years at £420 per year. Remembrance Parade and Service. Once again the council wishes to thank the members of the Royal British Legion for organising our civic parade with the usual military precision and also all who turned out to march, especially the youth organisations. Fly-tipping – the scourge of our countryside. If you spot rubbish along our lanes or in gateways contact our clerk or ring the clean team direct (080058772349) Finally -Congratulations to Mrs Janet Ryles. In the new year honours list Janet was awarded the British Empire Medal for her service to our community which includes over twenty years as leader and organiser of the CAMEO group and for her past work as leader of the brownie pack for many years. A well-deserved award and enjoy your visit to the Buckingham Palace Garden Party. For up to date news of council activities and events log on to www.facebook.com/AstononTrent PC Contact us at Aston-on-Trent Parish Clerk ~ Sheena Butcher 01332 793161 [email protected] Aston & Weston Royal British Legion 3 May I take this opportunity to thank all those people who helped at another successful Remembrance Day Parade, especially the marshalls who have a difficult job of holding motorists up, some who get irate because they cannot wait five minutes while the parade passes. During Remembrancetide we also have our poppy collection period and again my thanks, firstly to our poppy organiser Jane Archer, who not only organised our poppy appeal but a successful 'Poppy Picnic' which was held at the excellent Richmond Village complex where a total of £386.10 was raised for the poppy appeal, thanks also to those ladies who baked cakes. The poppy appeal saw a total of FIFTY collection boxes distributed around the Aston area and together with a number of donations a grand total of £4,260.59 has been raised so far for the poppy appeal which carries over to 2018. Talking about 2018, this will be a poignant year for the RBL with a number of events to commemorate 100 years since the signing of the Armistice Agreement on the 11th November 1918. These will be advertised in future Acorn issues. Why not join us at one of our branch meetings, held every 2nd Monday of the month at the White Hart pub at 19.30hrs.? Jim Ballington Branch Secretary 01332 405268

Village Walk 2017 Supported by The village walk committee would like to thank all walkers who helped to make this year’s event a success. Several hundred people took part and enjoyed the route if not the cool and blustery weather! First and foremost it is a community event and the money raised from the walk has been distributed to the following groups/individuals: Aston Bell Ringers Tower Fund Student raising money for charity trip to Africa Aston Joggers Aston Bowls Club Friends of Aston Brickyard Aston on Trent Aston ‘Hoover’ Group Recreation in Aston

The Village Shop Don’t forget, there will be the Aston on Trent 45th village walk on December 27 2018. The White Hart We hope to see you there! Aston on Trent

MST Health and fitness - Walk with nature - Ken Adams Sunday 22nd April starting from The Blue Jay car park 10.00 a.m. You are invited to join us on a 2 hour group stroll. It’s a gentle fresh air walk into Spring along the River Derwent embankment and Alvaston park and lake. Flat-easiest of walks. No stiles. 3 miles long. Off road. Toilets part way. We ask for a £2 donation, children with an adult, dogs on a short lead please. Friends Welcome - Just turn up at the start and sign in by 10.00 a.m.

ASTON & WESTON BOWLS CLUB The green is currently closed for play. The start of the new season will be Sunday April 1st (Easter Sunday), although this date is subject to weather conditions/state of the green. The annual dinner was held at The Cooper’s Arms in November. Prizes for the club competitions were handed out and the Club person of the year was awarded to Mike Walters in recognition of his work as captain of the league team which achieved some success last season. The old bowling pavilion was cleared and dismantled before Christmas, then a larger concrete base prepared, and the Richmond Sales Office relocated. The Sales Office had to be completely stripped of all fittings prior to removal. Since then a lot of work has been carried out on the new clubhouse internally such as installing lighting, fitting kitchen units and creating two toilets. Externally, soakaways have been dug at the side and rear. There remain many tasks for members to do to get the clubhouse ready for the start of the season. Following the Fish and Chip supper and quiz night that was held in January, the next social event will be an indoor bowling session at Erewash Indoor Bowls Club in Long Eaton on February 15th. For club information please contact Jim Ballington on 405268, or Sue Shadbolt on 793083. 4 Aston on Trent Neighbourhood Watch Helping to build a safer community for people to live and work Beware of thieves on these dark winter nights. Ensure your home and vehicles are adequately protected. Homes in Aston not fitted with a burglar alarm are at a high risk of being burgled. Empty and lock your vehicles at night and don’t leave anything on display. Report any suspicious behaviour/vehicles to the police. Incidents reported since the last Acorn (more than likely there were more as some villagers are failing to inform the police or Neighbourhood Watch): November ● Alderslade Close. Suspicious activity man with brown and white spaniel dog caught on CCTV. ● Fireworks Willow Park Way at 1.00am. ● Attempted break in at the Post Office 05.30am ● Derby Road (village centre) white Ford Motorhome stolen over night. ● Willow Close. Man in white VW Caddy van with Property Solutions on sweat shirt harassing elderly lady by wanting to carry out unnecessary repairs roof. Caught on CCTV. ● Fly tipping on Derby Road just past Crematorium entrance. ● Shardlow Road house broken into during the day, car keys and new Black VW Scirroco stolen. ● Internet BT phone scam wanting owner to switch on computer. December ● Internet Plusnet phone scam again wanting access to home owner’s computer. ● Weston Road red quad bike and tools stolen from outbuilding. ● Derby Road. Locks cut off gates to trespass on private land. ● Recreation Centre. Attempted break in to storage containers at night. ● Derby Road (village). Intruder disturbed and chased by householders. Police found him hiding in a shed. Arrested, held on remand in prison and charged with three other offences. ● Weston Road opposite War Memorial Hall. Vehicle broken into and tools stolen. ● Chellaston Lane. Property entered at night and many valuables stolen. ● Weston Road Theft from vehicle, lock forced and power tools stolen overnight. ● Weston Road near the War Memorial Hall man’s expensive bike stolen from insecure garage at 5.15pm ● Manor Farm Road/Little Moorside man acting strangely in Silver Vauxhall Astra. ● Suspicious male on dark bike riding along Derby Road near the Post Office peering into car windows 2.15pm ● Weston Road/ Bell Avenue suspicious white male in black Audi with grey bonnet drove away rapidly when confronted at 2.55pm. 08 registration ● Weston Road near Willow Park Way Advent display vandalised. January 2018 ● Holden Avenue two vehicles had their windows broken. ● 4 instances of fly tipping on Shardlow Road, Acre Lane and Derby Road. ● 30 bags of rubbish mainly containing drug making equipment found on Derby Road near the A50 bridge. ● Willow Park Way overnight van targeted for tools. ● Numerous bags of refuse deposited overnight in the village Phone Box. Look out for one another. Report anything suspicious to the Police as they build up intelligence on all types of crime Emergency calls 999 Non urgent calls 101 Anonymous reporting to Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111 Barrie Evans AoT NHWatch Chair Tel 01332 792738 or Email: [email protected] SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING Secure your home, outbuildings, bikes, cars and vans

As I write I have just seen the first dress rehearsal. I was very pleasantly surprised even though I have seen all of the previous rehearsals, as to how good it really was. We have some tweaking still to do but as usual the talent both on stage and behind ASTON PLAYERS the scenes is outstandingly good. Scenery, sound, lighting and costumes make this an excellent show. The children, once again, are superb. This year singing more than before and their sweetness of tone was just gorgeous. I am really looking forward to the polished show at the end of the month. We are once again giving our profit to a cancer charity and Rainbows. So with your continued support we will hope to give you all a good show and benefit charities along the way. We look forward to the New Year with excited anticipation. JENNY HUNTING Director ASTON ON TRENT FOOTBALL CLUB 5 The new year has seen plenty of changes for Aston on Trent Football Club, as they announced a new manager Lee Holmes, to take the team forward in 2018. With the cold weather meaning competitive matches have been a rarity, the team still sit firmly in mid-table with plenty of games in hand on those above them and will be looking to climb up the table as the season progresses. Training has continued throughout December and January, and if you are interested in getting involved in a playing or non-playing capacity, please contact Secretary Andy Wheatley on 07908905772. Up the Aston!

Aston School Parents Association ASPA had a busy run up to Christmas, with some fun fundraising events. Early in December we held a Christmas Party - with party food, crackers, a disco and plenty of dancing. Of course Santa paid a visit, and the children had a great time chatting to him while eating their party tea. Soon after was the brilliant school Christmas production - and family and friends were able to watch this while eating mince pies and drinking hot drinks sold by ASPA! Our annual Christmas Raffle was a great success - huge thanks to the local businesses who kindly donated prizes, to the Village Shop and Post Office for selling raffle tickets, and to all members of the community who helped our fundraising by buying tickets. We've already started planning events for the New Year, with a film night, a disco and Mother’s and Father’s Day gift sales, all to be held in the Spring term and a fashion show in the Summer term. Thanks to all members of the community who support ASPA with our fundraising - we wouldn't be able to do it without you. Aston on Trent Women’s Institute We all had a fabulous time at our WI birthday party celebration recently. We enjoyed having caterers serve us a delicious meal in the Memorial Hall and were entertained with live music throughout the evening. Our new coffee mornings held on 7th November and 5th December at the Heritage Centre were a great success, so thank you to everyone who came along. We’ll be holding more next year, so look out for more dates to be announced. These are a great opportunity for folk to come along and meet new people. Keep these events in mind if you have a neighbour who might enjoy the opportunity to get out of the house. One of our fundraisers for our WI 90th celebration is set for 3rd February. Our WI Winter Warmer will feature a delicious selection of “soup and puds” between noon and 2pm in the Memorial Hall for just £5 per person. The calendar for next year is starting to pan out, we’re already working on our annual holiday for September and are thinking about visiting Cardiff this time. Why not come along and make new friends! We invite a speaker to most meetings. We meet at the Memorial Hall on the second Tuesday of each month (except August) at 7:30PM. New members and guests are always welcome; see you there!

ASTON ON TRENT HISTORY GROUP What springs to mind when the word ‘Archiving’ is mentioned? ‘Boring’, ‘uninteresting’ perhaps? But that’s what people do all the time when they talk about past events in their lives. They’re digging through their personal memories, their mental archives, to share with friends, family and acquaintances. And that’s what the History Group has been doing since 2004, collecting facts and stories about Aston so that present and future generations can discover what life was like several or just a few years ago. We have thousands of photos and documents stored in the Heritage Centre and the vast majority are accessible digitally, thanks to our dedicated volunteers. Memories and information are just an easy ‘mouse click’ away. Pop in on any Monday morning and see for yourself We’re also running our ‘Telling Tales: Sharing Stories: Growing the Archive’ project at present so if you’ve been sent a Memories Pack to complete please let us have your stories back as soon as you can. Packs also available in the Heritage Centre and Church if you’d like to make your mark on local history. It’s amazing what you’ll remember! www.astonontrenthistory.org.uk 6

....improving facilities for all …. No 66 January 2018 The Recreation Centre Building work on the Recreation Centre continues. The completion date has slipped a little but we hope with some good weather they will be able to complete the building early Spring. Our thanks to the builders for helping us to ensure that activities in the main hall can still continue. Hire of centre. Bookings are being taken for the Recreation Centre – phone Barbara James on 792061 for further details. Fund Raising Events Annual Supper Quiz Saturday Nov 4th 2017 Everyone loves a quiz and this was no exception! This was a most enjoyable evening and, as ever, it was a sell out. The clever and quirky questions were provided by Aston’s excellent quizmaster Robin Sedgewick and his wife Ann. George’s Tradition of Long Eaton supplied the usual very tasty fish and chip supper, which was enjoyed by everyone including the South Derbyshire District Council Chairman , Councillor Mike Stanton and his consort wife Heather. Councillor Stanton presented the winning team “The Dream Team On Tour” led by Kim Hodgkin with the David Smith Memorial trophy. All of the proceeds from this evening are being used to furnish the new kitchen in the Recreation Centre. Santa Round The Village Sunday 17th Dec 2017 A big thank you to everyone who supported Santa Round the Village 2017. Our Recreation Centre, Cricket Club and Preschool will all benefit from your very generous donations. Our elves received a great response from residents for their use of social media and will be repeating this again next year... Father Christmas had a wonderful time meeting all our children and the elves were very grateful for the wonderful hospitality of our residents - keeping their spirits up on a wet and windy evening! Happy New Year to you all - we hope 2018 is a great one. Future Events. Music Evening Date for your diary Friday 13th April – further details to be advertised around the village Yard Sale This very popular event will take place on Saturday 12th May 10.00 – 2.00pm Maps will be on sale from the village pump on the day. If you would like to “open” your garage {£5} please contact :- Barbara on 792061 or Hilary on 792397 Please be aware that there will be parking restrictions in the centre of the village. Soul and Motown Evenings. Tickets cost £4 on the door – just come along and bring your own drinks, glasses and nibbles. Dates for your diary next sessions are: Friday 23rd March 2018, Fri 11th May, Fri 22nd June and Friday 3rd August 2018. Villages Garden Club Programme Weston Village Hall upstairs room 7.30pm 3rd Tuesday of the month. All visitors welcome. ● Tuesday Feb 20th Micro Gardening. Talk by J & G Summerfield ● Tuesday March 20th Raised Beds. Talk by designer Steve Walton ● Tuesday April 17th Hostas. Talk by Robert Barlow We also support gardening events organised by RIA. Further details contact Coral Smith 799778 Recreation Centre Activities. Table Tennis This club continues to thrive. Why not come down and give it a go whatever your standard. There are 2 sessions:- Monday 7.30p.m. – 9.30p.m. Thursday 10.00a.m. – 12.00noon The cost is £2 For information contact Barbara James 792061 Chair based Exercise Class Run by a fully qualified Exercise Trained Instructor this class helps to maintain and improve mobility. Monday mornings from 10.30 to 11.30 the cost is £3.50 and includes a hot drink and biscuit. Come along and join in the lovely social exercise classes. Further info Lindsay 07874 862287 ZUMBA CLASS Zumba - A Latin inspired dance fitness class at the RIA Centre. All ages and abilities welcome Come and have a go, keep fit and have fun! Fridays 10-11a.m. £4 per session. First session FREE! For more information please contact Natalie McCaul on 07850 346702 or [email protected] Once building works are completed there will be 2 new classes starting at the RIA Centre: Tiny Tots Dance A parent and child dance class for 1-4 years Developing dance skills, coordination, rhythm and musicality through fun songs, dance and props. Let's Dance 50+ A low impact dance class teaching a variety of dance styles. Helping you to be more active, have fun and make friends. For more information on any of the above dance classes or to register your interest please contact Natalie McCaul on 07850 346702 or [email protected] Tea Dances Following on from our article about holding Tea Dances in the last Acorn we have had a number of interested people come forward for more information about this activity. The Tea Dances will be held on a Tuesday afternoon at 2pm - 4pm. at the Recreation Centre and started on Tuesday 23rd January. Cost £2.50 includes tea/coffee Everyone most welcome. Further details phone Barbara 792061

The Aston Living Advent 2017. Dear Aston Advent-urists 2017. Well done to all who took part in this year’s Aston Living Advent, the displays were so varied and amazing We know from the feedback received, that many people enjoyed walking the route with family and friends over the Christmas season. Thank you to Laura for organizing the route map, much improved on 2016. If you have been inspired to join the growing number of Advent-urists, look out for further information later in 2018. Many thanks, Monique Lees. Aston Well Dressers 7 Happy New Year! Following our AGM we welcome Chris Hopkinson and Jon Key to the committee and say farewell to our Chair, Steve Hyde, after 10 years on the committee. Other than those changes, the committee remains pretty much as it was for 2017. To keep the Festival forward, we are always on the lookout for new ideas and help, whether it is just by donating your time at one of the fundraisers or over the Festival Weekend, or with a greater involvement as a committee member (currently we are looking to fill the roles of Secretary, Logistics Officer and Web/Social Media Officer) so please get in touch if you would like to join or help us. If you need more information on the roles, or just to volunteer your time, you can contact us on [email protected] or via our Facebook page. The feedback we received on the improvements made in 2017 were very positive and we plan to continue to try to improve the Festival in 2018 – let’s make it the best Festival ever! Priority stall bookings will be available for the village groups shortly, so please check the website www.astonwelldressers.co.uk Save the dates!! Sunday 25th March will be the Afternoon Tea in the Memorial Hall from 2.30 to 5.00 so come along and enjoy some home-made treats and a cup of tea or coffee or perhaps even a glass of prosecco or two? Maybe tie this in with a walk and finish with tea and cake. This key fundraiser helps us put on entertainment throughout the Festival weekend, so please support us if you can. Astonbury 2018, this excellent showcase of local talent returns on Friday 4th May at All Saints & Saturday 5th May at the Village Hall –. Please come along to one of the evenings (or enjoy a discounted ticket for both) – and get your dancing shoes on! Well Dressing Festival, Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th July – the main weekend, as always, we are grateful for any help we can get, whether it’s work on the well dressings in the week leading up to the weekend, (don’t worry we can show you how), building or running stalls, put up bunting and much more.

ASTON WAR MEMORIAL HALL First of all a Happy New Year to everyone. Last year was eventful and this year looks to be just as interesting for us. We are still in need of a secretary. This is a paid position and only one meeting a month so just a couple of hrs commitment. If you are interested then please contact Julie on 01332 799323 and have a chat. We have new groups starting in the new year so have a look on the board to see what takes your fancy and have a go at something new this year. If you would like to help out in any way please contact me. Bookings are made by contacting Gail Smith 01332 792541 You can contact the Chair person Julie Ingman 01332 799323

107th Derby Scout Group Aston on Trent Community Group is responsible for the Acorn Magazine. For the past 17 years it has featured a (Aston, Weston & Shardlow) and Trent Explorers mixture of 38 village groups and local businesses which Sections meet in the activity room at the reflect the vibrancy and energy of our village community. Memorial Hall Chellaston Lane, Aston on Trent Paid for by the subscribers it has enabled 960 copies (3840 Beavers (Age 6 - 8) Tuesday 5.45 - 7.00pm annually) to be delivered free each quarter to all residences. Cubs (Age 8 - 10) Mondays 6:40 – 8.00pm Scouts (Age 10 - 14) Tuesday 7.15p.m and Fri 7:30 p.m. With the additional housing developments, an additional 332 Explorers (Age 14 - 18) Mondays 8 - 9:30pm. copies will be needed. An agreements has been made with Richmond Village to supply copies to residents in Suites and We are very proud that 9 of our young people will be presented with their Chief Scout Gold Awards (the highest award in scouting) at a Independent Living properties. The additional distribution county presentation ceremony in Chesterfield in February. should benefit our groups and businesses CONGRATULATIONS to: Georgia Haleem, Anna Wells, We are grateful to the Parish Council for making a financial Ella Skelding, William Lacey, Lottie Mathews, Daisy Cooke, contribution over the next two years. This means we can James Skelding, Louis Than & Emma Foster increase the donation to All Saints’ Church for delivering the If, like us you’ve finally polished off the Quality Street and resolved to Acorn and avoid a further price increase for the next few years. get fit in 2018, what better reason to begin training than the: David Brown Compiler/Editor 01332 792189 2018 WESTON RUN 11am Sunday 4 March 2018 Ukrainian Centre, Weston on Trent The Linda Cooper School of Dance & Guests The 5 mile road race is run under UK Athletics rules, with trophies for winning clubs and categories and tot glasses awarded to all finishers. Presents Thank You Mrs Saxby Medals will be awarded to all finishers in the 2 mile family fun run. A Night for us to Remember a Very Special Lady This year we plan to make some changes to the route to allow runners to At the 400 Theatre Repton School enjoy more of our lovely local countryside, utilising the canal towpath in th Weston on Trent to avoid road traffic and reduce congestion at junctions. Saturday 10 February 2018 6.30p.m. Once UK Athletics have measured and certified the route, online Seats: £10 Tickets on Sale at The Memorial Hall applications will be open at: www.107derbyscouts.org.uk Thursdays and Fridays between 4.00 & 6.00p.m. All welcome – or simply come along to watch, enjoy a bacon buttie and For Enquiries please contact [email protected] support the runners! Donations will go Margaret’s Favourite Charities Group Scout Leader: Craig Morris – 07748 607092 Group Chairman: Tony Razzell – 01332 792390 E-mail: [email protected] 8 ALL SAINTS’ PARISH CHURCH one of the Trent and Derwent Parish Churches serving Aston on Trent, Barrow on Trent, Elvaston, Shardlow, Swarkestone, Twyford and Weston on Trent Rector: the Rev’d. Tony Luke,MA. Tel. 0 01332 792658. e mail: [email protected] Assistant priest: the Rev’d Paul Hygate Tel. 01332 770574 Curate: the Rev’d Ed Backhouse Tel 01159 727816 Sunday services: 10.30 a.m. Family Worship every Sunday (Communion on the 2nd & 4th Sundays) 6.30 p.m. Evensong. (1st Sunday in the month) Wednesday service: 9.30 a.m. Holy Communion. (1st & 3rd Wednesday in every month) 6.45 p.m Compline (Every Week)

Our Wednesday Hub continues to meet every Wednesday at 10.30 am in the Heritage Centre. It is open to everyone any Wednesday you wish to come. The monthly pattern is as follows: 1st Wednesday: Open Café - Social time 2nd Wednesday: Open before God – Meditation 3rd Wednesday: Open Book – Bible exploration 4th Wednesday: Open-ended – Open discussion Other regular activities at All Saints’: M.U. (Mothers’ Union) meets on the 4th Thursday in every month at 2.30 p.m, in the Heritage Centre. CAMEO (An informal group for women) meets on the 1st Wednesday in every month at 7.30 p.m, in the Heritage Centre. THE MEN”S BREAKFAST will have its first meeting at The Malt at 8.30 am on Saturday 13th January. Future meetings will be advertised. All are welcome. BELLRINGERS meet to practise on Mondays at 8.00 p.m. THE ASTON ARIOSO CHOIR practises on Monday evenings at 7.00 pm in the Heritage Centre. THE HERITAGE CENTRE is available for group or private bookings. Contact Alison Wheeler on 793492 LENT, HOLY WEEK & EASTER AT ALL SAINTS’ Every Wednesday in Lent (starting 14th Feb.) 6.45 p.m. Compline with address Sunday 18th February – 6.00 pm Deanery Evensong at All Saints’ with Bishop Alastair. Mothering Sunday 11th March – 10.30 a.m. Family Communion. Palm Sunday 25th March – 10.30 a.m. Procession from the Methodist Church followed by service at All Saints’. Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday of Holy Week – 6.45 p.m. Journey to the Cross & Compline Maundy Thursday – 7.30 pm Sung Eucharist at Weston Good Friday – 2.00 pm Last Hour Devotional Service Easter Eve – 9.00 pm Service of Light and First Eucharist of Easter Easter Day 1st April - 10.30 a.m. Family Communion. Congratulations to Janet Ryles, leader of CAMEO on being awarded the British Empire Medal for service to our community. Well done, Janet. We’re proud of you! Weddings can be booked at the weekly “surgery” on Tuesday evenings, 7.00 – 7.30 pm in the Vestry. Information about getting married in Church is to be found on the website. Baptism enquiries should be directed to the Rector. Magazine We have a monthly magazine, called “On Stream” for the Trent and Derwent Parishes, printed in colour, with photographs and a children’s page. Available at 75p per month. Please contact Joe Nutman on 792659 if you would like to subscribe or receive a sample copy. 200 Club We welcome parishioners to join our 200 Club to raise money on a regular basis towards the continuing maintenance of our beautiful, ancient Church building. It costs £5 per month and the 1st prize is 20% of the month’s takings. Contact Alison Wheeler (793492) for further information. A Different Poppy Appeal - Can you knit sew or crochet - We need You! We need hundreds, Yes Hundreds of poppies for our “Waterfall of Poppies” exhibition in church during this year’s Welldressing Weekend. If you can help, please contact Suzanne 792750 Much more information on our websites: www.astonontrentchurch.org www.trentderwentparishes.org

Carols round the village - Thursday 21st December 2017 On a very cold winters evening carol singers accompanied by members of the Newall Band made their way down Derby Road, Manor Farm Road and roads off, culminating at the Village Christmas Tree where they were greeted by a large crowd of families and children. The band played many well known carols before heading for refreshments and to continue playing in The White Hart. Total funds raised £483. Thanks to everyone who helped! Funds raised are shared by All Saints’ Church and The Church of England Children’s Society ASTON ON TRENT GOLF SOCIETY 9 The Village Golf Society meet up for a monthly Stableford golf match on Fridays in the summer playing different courses in the area. New members welcome, please see entry sheet on the events board at The Malt Alternatively please contact any of 2018 Committee members should you require any further information. Fixtures for 2018 are: 23 March Morley Hayes, 20 April Breadsall Moorland, 18 May Lingdale, 22 June Willesley Park, 6 July The Nottinghamshire Golf Club, Signature Course, 17 August Chilwell Manor, 14 September Beeston Fields, 5 October Rushcliffe Golf Club. 2018 Committee members are: Captain Rob Sheridan 07790 347125 Vice Captain Glyn Oliver 07709 292726, Treasurer Clive Bowler 07798 882570. We look forward to meeting you.

Aston on Trent Primary School The Staff, Governors and Pupils would like to wish all readers a Happy and Healthy New Year. We look forward to another exciting year, with lots of new experiences for our children. ASPA will again be providing lots of fund raising opportunities for school, and all monies raised will go towards enhancing the resources for the children. The Christmas productions on December 12th and 13th were a huge success, despite all being in the school day due to the building works. All the children performed beautifully, and we would like to thank parents and staff for helping children with their costumes. During Anti-Bullying week in November we had Firehorse Productions perform ‘Just Joshing’, and at the end of term the Artyfact Theatre came into school again, this year to perform ‘Oliver Twist’ (very kindly paid for by ASPA). These performances were very much enjoyed by the children. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by the current building works at school. They are scheduled to finish around Easter 2018, and the new classroom should be in use from September 2018. This will be a fantastic addition to the school and will enhance the learning environment for all our children. We currently have two places for co-opted governors on our governing body. If you would like to find out more information about the vacancies, please email [email protected].

Aston on Trent Village Cricket Club In 2018 we will be running an Under 11 team in the SDCDG Kwik Cricket League and a friendly seniors team playing on selected Sundays and evenings, so whatever your age, ability or experience, come along and get involved. Indoor nets started on Saturday 13th Jan from 3pm to 5pm for 10 weeks. These will be initially for seniors but we hope to have some junior net sessions too. Junior training will be on Thursday evenings and will start in mid April. We will also be an ECB All Stars Centre again in 2018 and the website should be available to sign up your 5-8 year old children again from late January. Our ground equipment, sightscreens and roller have made a huge difference to us all, and the wickets will keep improving each year with the right equipment and care. We’re happy to announce that Swarkestone 3rd XI will again play some of their home games in Aston in 2018. The first fundraising event of the year is our famous Race Night in March in the Memorial Hall – more details to come soon. We’re grateful to everyone for their help with raising money in 2017. If you would like to get involved – be it playing, coaching or helping out with the grounds then contact Dave Duncan on 07774 155156 or Ian Dunn on 01332 799948 or by our Facebook page or new website www.aotvillagecc.play-cricket.com where you can see much more about fixtures and events. We hope – subject to approval – to have some exciting news regarding practice facilities soon, and in the meantime please keep an eye out for news of our plans for the ECB supported Cricket Force Day event in Early April.

Aston on Trent Methodist Church Minister: Rev’d John Hartley Tel: 01332 405286 As well as having an enjoyable time, the folk at the Christmas party raised £70 for Action for Children from the raffle. Pauline, Beryl, Margaret, Paul and Rev John kept the partygoers well entertained with both humorous and more thoughtful recitations and musical items. A quiz entitled 'Catchphrases' required putting the name of a well-known performer to their catchphrase-those of more mature years had a distinct advantage in this, e.g. 'Hello my darlings'? Christmas songs and carols were sung heartily and a sumptuous tea was tucked into. Tribute was paid to Jenny Yale, Julie and Chris Lyth and Janet Hunter for all the work they do in the background throughout the year. Donations made during refreshments after the Carol Service at the village tree amounted to £40 for Padley. Time moves swiftly on and we shall soon be in the season of Lent, following Jesus on his journey to the cross. Seeking to follow his ways more closely and become more like him in his humility and self-giving love. Our regular services will reflect this. Sunday Worship, alternating between Aston and Weston, is varied with a more traditional feel in the morning. In the afternoon, Simply Communion is quiet and thoughtful, lasting for just 30 minutes. Cafe' Church is very informal with a buffet tea. A warm welcome is assured whether it be to Worship or a friendship group. See the noticeboards for up to date information. Transport can be provided. Saturdays in The Memorial Hall ROB WILKINSON - BUILDING SERVICES ASTON-ON-TRENT 9.30am Little Dragons (3 ½ - 6 years) 10.00am Kickboxing (8 years to Adult) Small Extensions, Property Maintenance, 11.00am Taekwon-Do (6years to Adult) Alterations, Patios Garden Walls and Fencing

The complete supply and fit of Kitchens/ Bathrooms First Lesson Free Inc:- Wall and Floor Tiling Call Now to book your place FREE DESIGN SERVICE & ESTIMATES 07779 789134 Tel:- 07950 873329 - Day www.derbyshiredragons.com 01332 799829 - Evening

ATKINSON TREE SURGERY 30 Hours Free Childcare is available at Pre-School. Apply now! All aspects of Tree Surgery Undertaken Aston on Trent Pre-School opens term-time, ● Qualified & Experienced 7:30 – 3:05 Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. ● Fully Insured to £5million 7:30 – 1:05 Wednesdays and Thursdays. ● All Work to BS3998 Let us help your child to prepare for school, whilst they have oodles of fun every day! ● Expert Advice & Free Quotes ● All Waste Removed From Site Pre-School runs with a breakfast club and ● Pruning, Re-shaping & Felling walking bus to Aston on Trent Primary School. Regular Breakfast Club costs up to £7.40, ● Hedge & Shrub Cutting/Trimming Morning sessions cost £13.20 and a 6 hour day costs £26.40 01332 755659 or 07790 434546 Places are available, call Michelle on 07843 986962 or visit www.thetreefella.co.uk www.astonpreschoolderby.com/ Covering Aston on Trent and Derbyshire

Open 14 hours every day 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Aston’s Local Village Shop Telephone 01332 792464 Specialist Grocer and Greengrocer - offering quality products at realistic prices! A large choice of Freshly made Luke Evans Fresh Meats Wines, Beer & Spirits Hot & Cold Filled Rolls Derbyshire Bakery Rump - Sirloin - Fillet Steaks at Competitive Prices Made on our premises Range of Bread, Lamb - Pork Stewing Steak Plus Premium Beers Hot Bacon Baps Cakes and Pastries Minced Beef Chicken From the Cool Cabinets - Fresh Milk - Fresh Cream - Butter and large Selection of chilled Wine Cold & Flu symptons? - Large range of medicines. Tablets, Cough mixtures. Box of Tissues

Lady Painter and Decorator Diplomas in Painting & Decorating, and Interior Design Professional and Friendly Service Provided at an affordable Price Free no-Obligation Quotes and Advice No Job too Small. Fully insured Call Amy Bennett Home: 01332 706405 Mobile: 07854629401 OPENING HOURS Aston on Trent School of Dance Monday 9am - 6pm Tuesday 9am - 6pm Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Disco and Theatre skills Wednesday 9am - 7pm Nursery to Professional level Thursday 9am - 7pm Thursday and Friday at Friday 9am - 5pm Aston on Trent Memorial Hall Saturday 9am - 4pm Private Ballet lessons by appointment No matter which Beauty treatment you wish to indulge yourself (Royal Academy of Dance Syllabus) with, or Aesthetics treatment you would like to treat yourself to, you will experience the most up-to-date techniques using the New for 2018 Diddy Dancers most modern equipment conducted to a high professional A dance class for little people from 2½ years standard. Ample private parking! We offer a free consultation. upwards, includes Ballet, Tap and Jiggle and Wiggle. If you would like to book, please contact us on Every Thursday at The Memorial Hall @ 3pm . 01332 702250 or at [email protected] Adult Ballet Rectory Cottage, Park Lane, Weston on Trent DE72 2BR Fun, and Fitness, all ages any level including beginners www.beauty-tsg.co.uk Every Wednesday at the Memorial Hall 6pm www.facebook.com/TheSecretGardenDerby Linda Cooper BA hons, Fellow and Examiner NATD, AIDTA (Ballet) Mutually Recognised Teacher Royal Academy of Dance Aston Garden Enquiries to Linda Cooper 01332 870049 Mobile 07718 655575 or Services e-mail [email protected] From lawn care to landscaping Footsteps towards

Qualified Reflexologist

Lindsay Robins MAR RN BSd (Hons) Andrew Baker-Crowther 07874 862287 mobile: 07719595466 Tel: 01332 793062 [email protected] www.footstepstowardstranquility.co.uk email:[email protected]

ASTON ON TRENT POST OFFICE � Heiran Vagh and Tamu Vagh Hello. We would like to introduce ourselves as the new management of the Post Office We would like to thank everyone in the village for making us very welcome and helping us settle into the village. Our aim is to provide a good Post Office service as well as offering a wide range of stationery and household products Extended our business hours Shop Newspapers - Magazines - Comics Great range of Stationery Monday-Friday - 6am - 8pm National Lottery & Health Lottery Selection of Giftware Saturday - 6am - 6pm Free Cash Withdrawals from 7.30am Greetings Cards, Wrapping paper Sunday - 6am - 3pm Euros on demand and by order Paperbacks - Latest Titles Post Office Ebayers parcel welcomed. Huge selection of Magazines Monday-Friday - 7am - 5:30pm Saturday - 7am - 5:30pm Contact us by Phone 792256 or email: [email protected] Sunday - 7am - 1.00pm

Laura and all the staff at The Malt would like to say a huge thank you to all of its customers who supported Treetops Hospice by raising just over a £1,000 between July and December and £288 for the November Foundation in November. We will have new fundraising events coming up this year. Our Sunday lunches are proving so popular we now advise to pre- book. Give us a call now to reserve your table for Mother’s Day on 11th March or any other special event you wish to celebrate. Keep your eyes peeled on our website and facebook page for our special offers, entertainment and remember we show all live sporting events on Sky and BT. Looking forward to seeing old and new customers during 2018. 01332 799116 e-mail [email protected]. www.maltshovelastonontrent.pub GROUP LOCATION TIME DAY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL

CAMEO Heritage Centre 19.30 1st Wednesday 7th 7th 4th MOTHERS’ UNION Heritage Centre 14.30 4th Thursday 22nd 22nd 26th ROYAL BRITISH LEGION White Hart 19.30 2nd Monday 12th 12th 9th WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Memorial Hall 19.30 2nd Tuesday 13th 13th 10th PARISH COUNCIL Memorial Hall 19.30 3rd Tuesday 20th 20th 17th LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Memorial Hall 19.30 4th Tuesday 27th 27th 24th ARIOSO CHOIR Heritage Centre 19.00 Every Monday ASTON ART CLUB Heritage Centre 14.00 Every Monday METHODIST CHURCH “Lunch Club” Methodist Church 12.00 3rd Wednesday 21st 21st 18th “Coffee Morning” Methodist Church 10.00 4th Wednesday 28th 28th 25th “Cafe Church” Methodist Church 16.30 3 rd Sunday 18th (4pm) 18th 15th

FEBRUARY Saturday 3rd WI “90th Celebrations” War Memorial Hall 12noon - 2.00p.m. Saturday 10th School of Dance - “Thank you Mrs Saxby” Repton School (For Charity) MARCH Sunday 4th 107th Scouts 5 & 2 mile Fun Run Ukrainian Centre 11 a.m. Friday 23rd RIA Soul and Motown Evening Recreation Centre Sunday 25th Well Dressers “Afternoon Tea” War Memorial Hall 2.30 - 5.00p.m. APRIL Friday 13th April RIA Music Evening - Details to be advertised around the village Tuesday 17th Annual Parish Meeting 7.30p.m. War Memorial Hall Sunday 22nd Aston MST Health Walk with Nature. Start 10.00 a.m. Blue Jay Car Park MAY Friday 4th “Astonbury 2018” All Saints Church Saturday 5th May “Astonbury 2018” Aston War Memorial Hall Friday 11th RIA Soul and Motown Evening Recreation Centre Saturday 12th RIA “Yard Sale” around the Village 10.00a.m. - 2.00p.m Aston on Trent Well Dressing Festival Weekend - Saturday 7th July and Sunday 8th July Activity at Aston Recreation Centre Table Tennis - 2 x 2hour sessions Monday 7.30 p.m Thursday 10.00a.m. Chair based Exercise Monday Mornings 10.30 - 11.30a.m. Zumba Classes Fridays 10.00 - 11.00a.m. Tea Dances Tuesday afternoon 2.00 - 4.00p.m. Regular Soul & Motown Evenings Coming soon! - Tiny Tots Dance and Let’s Dance 50+

LENT, HOLY WEEK & EASTER AT ALL SAINTS’ Every Wednesday in Lent (starting 14th February) 6.45 p.m Compline with address. Sunday 18th February - 6.00p.m Deanery Evensong at All Saints’ with Bishop Alastair Mothering Sunday 11th March - 10.30a.m. Family Communion. Palm Sunday 25th March - 10.30 a.m. Procession from the Methodist Church followed by service at All Saints’. Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday of Holy Week - 6.45 p.m. Journey to the Cross &Compline Maundy Thursday - 7.30 p.m. Sung Euchrist at Weston Good Friday - 2.00 p.m. Last Hour Devotional Service Easter Eve - 9.00 p.m. Service of Light and First Eucharist of Easter Easter Day 1st April - 10.30 a.m. Family Communion.

Visit your Village website - Linking you to your Community. www.aston-on-trent.co.uk Mailing list - to receive village information, add your name to the list. To village groups and societies - get your group listed in the address book. The Acorn Magazine Delivered to all residents by volunteers Printing by Alvaston Press Ltd is published by from All Saints’ Church PCC 4 Chancel Place Boyer Street Derby Aston Community Group Edition 66 will cover May, June & July DE22 3SH Telephone 01332 571232 and sponsored by Compiler and Editor David Brown [email protected] Aston Parish Council Telephone 792189 [email protected] www.alvastonpress.co.uk