March
2015
360
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STAR Editorial Team
Editor: John Foster, 15 Whitton Close, Ranskill—01777 818397
Duplicators: Derek Gill, Graham Hadley
Typists: Sharon Wright, Kate Cordingley
Distributors and Helpers: June and Geoff Lodge, Joy Tudberry, Fran Lee, Rita Whitfield, Dennis Till,
Ann Robbins, Beryl Dickens, Hilda and Nesson Hughes, Gordon Ashworth, Annette Marshall, Peter
Snowball, Heather Reid, Louisa Scott, Vaneeta Kilby, Charlotte Arrrowsmith, Jill Swannack, Mrs.
Richardson, Barry Bown, Peter Brown, Chris Foster, Jackie Prendergast, Christie and Rob Willis,
Zak D’Amelio, Debbie Smith
Village Representatives: Ranskill: Vaneeta Kilby, 24, Arundel Drive
Scrooby: Izzi Marshall, Chirnside, Low Road—01302 719811
Torworth: Derek Gill, 26 Underwood Avenue—01777 818745
Management Committee
Chair: John Foster, Secretary: Treasurer: Paula Hadley
Editorial: John Foster, Tim Cotton, Vaneeta Kilby
Advertising: Bill Arrowsmith 07801 633211
All articles for publication to Village Representatives or by Email to: copy4star@yahoo.co.uk
as early as possible but no later than the 16th of each month.
Local Organisations—Some useful Telephone Numbers
Guides: Sandra McIvor 07876 787959
Brownies & Rainbows:
Janet Symonds, 01777 818713
Explorer Scouts:
Caroline Kercel 818077
Scouts: Mark Mounde, 01427 849130
Beavers: Laren Mounde, 01427 849130
Cubs: Serena Wyld, 01777 816327
Duke of Edinburgh Awards:
Caroline Kercel, 01777 818077
St. Wilfrid’s Church Scrooby and
St. Barnabas’ Church, Ranskill:
Rev.Kate Bottley, 01909 591857
Methodist Church:
Circuit Office: 01777 702786
Mon.,Tues.,Thurs. 9.30 - 3.00
Mothers Union, Ranskill:
Pat Gill, 01777 818745
Mothers Union, Scrooby:
Gail Foster, 01777 816062
Bawtry Amateur Dramatic Society:
Jane Thomson, 01777 818215
Scrooby Village Hall:
Izzi Marshall, 01302 719811
Bassetlaw Cardiac Support Group:
Robert Blatchford 01777 818519
Friends of Daneshill Lakes:
Lesley Noar 01777 818362
W.R.V.S. Afternoon Fellowship Club: Ranskill Parish Council:
Terry Stables, 01777
Carol Head, 01777 705077
816648
Ranskill Post Office (Top Shop):
Scrooby Parish Council:
01777 818864
Sheila Firth, 01302 710936
Mattersey (with Ranskill)
Torworth Parish Council:
After School Club:
Rachel Hyland, 07595
01777 816714
932307
info@matterseypreschool.co.uk
Ranskill Bowls Club:
District Councillors:
Malcolm Hauser
Ranskill & Torworth:
Ranskill Investment Club:
Michael Gray,
David Smith, 01777 818400
01777 700318
Ranskill Nursery Pre-school:
Scrooby: Barry Bowles,
Karen Meakin, 01777 816066
01909 732121
Little Owls Toddler Group:
Karen Meakin, 01777 816066
County Councillors:
Ranskill Primary School,
Ranskill & Torworth:
Head Teacher, Mrs. H. Leone,
Liz Yates 01777 860219
01777 818468
Scrooby: Sheila Place
Ranskill Reading Room:
01909 731900
Peter Parkin, 01777 818852
Ranskill & Torworth W.I:
Police: 101
Pat Blatchford, 01777 818519
Non urgent enquiries:
Neighbourhood Watch
PC Jason Fellows
Representatives In Ranskill:
07525 226893
Carolyn West, 01777 818016
PCSO Aaron Stocks,
Barry Bown, 01777 816325
07824 457397
Advertising Rates
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The
STAR
No. 360
March 2015
Scrooby, Torworth And Ranskill
All the news and views from our three villages
PLEASE NOTE
All
Advertising
copy
and
alterations to advertisements
th
must be submitted by the 16 of
the month.
News items for the STAR must be
sent to your village representative
th
by the 16 of the month for
inclusion in the next issue.
After
these
dates
the
advertisements and news items
will be printed, if wanted, in the
following month’s issue.
If you would like to send
your copy by Email send it to:
copy4star@yahoo.co.uk
IN MY OPINION
Would you like to contribute
something that you feel strongly
about and want to tell our
readers? If so, please email it or
let your village representative
have your copy (around 350
words) in good time for next
month.
Our Email address:
copy4star@yahoo.co.uk
DISCLAIMER AND COPYRIGHT
The views expressed within this
Newsletter DO NOT necessarily
reflect the views of the Editorial
Panel.
We make every effort and take
great care in the assembly and
production of this newsletter;
however
we
accept
no
responsibility for matters or
disputes arising as a result of
errors, printing errors, stories,
features or advertisements which
appear in this publication.
Submitted articles and pictures are
accepted on the understanding
that the contributor owns the
copyright, or has cleared the
material for use, and that the
STAR has permission to publish all
or part of that submitted material.
STAR
OPINION
It is pleasing to report elsewhere in this edition of the STAR that
the clock which has recorded the passing of time in Scrooby for
more than a century is now – almost – back to pristine condition.
The clock was installed in 1895, financed by a village benefactor
who stipulated that the clock should be placed on the south face
of the tower of St Wilfrid’s Church so that he could see it from his
home.
Like many a church clock, time had taken its toll on the Scrooby
Church Clock, but three years ago churchwardens Maurice
Clapham and Gordon Ashworth decided to try running the clock
again.
It did “go” if that is the correct term for a church clock, but had to
be cajoled and eventually it came to a stop again.
This time professional help was needed and temporary repairs
were carried out, but again last year the clock stopped once more.
Again repairs were carried out and later this year the final
refurbishment will be carried out and the clock will be restored to
full working order.
The cost of the repairs has been spread over several years and
without the financial help of Scrooby Parish Council and the
Scrooby Show Committee, would not have been carried out at all
so a great deal of thanks should go to them for their financial
support.
As we reported last month, 2020 will mark the 400th anniversary of
the sailing of the Mayflower – an event that will be celebrated
around the world – and Scrooby is where it all began.
It is an anniversary that will bring many hundreds, if not
thousands, of visitors to Scrooby, many of them making the return
journey across the Atlantic that the Mayflower pioneers first made
four centuries ago.
So it is fitting that the clock on the village church is once again
recording the passage of time for visitors and residents alike and
the STAR is pleased to congratulate everyone who has played
any part in restoring the historic clock to its former glory.
Add to that the plans for a Pilgrim Fathers Heritage Centre in the
village, adjacent and linked to the village pub, complete with an
education centre and a shop selling Pilgrim Fathers memorabilia,
together with the planned statue of William Brewster that is to be
erected in the village, Scrooby’s unique place in world history is at
last being marked.
It is often said that Scrooby is better known in America than it is in
this country, and that is probably true and certainly 2020 is sure to
bring a huge influx of tourists to the area.
We cannot – and must not – allow such a momentous occasion to
pass unnoticed. The intervening five years will soon pass and
plans have to be made. William Brewster put Scrooby on the map
four hundred years ago. It is up to us to make sure his bravery
and foresight is properly and fittingly acknowledged.
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Offices also at Retford & Ollerton
THE ‘shy VC’ who lived
out his last 22 years in
Scrooby is to be commemorated at a special
service at the National
Memorial Arboretum in
Staffordshire this month.
World War I flying ace
Second Lieutenant later
Group Captain GSM Insall, was awarded the
Victoria Cross in 1915 for
his daring exploits after
being shot down behind
enemy lines.
Insall, who was born
in Paris, where his English father was head of
the Ecole Odontique at
the Sorbonne, was one
of 145 VC holders who
fought for Britain during
the First World War, but
were born overseas.
Paving stones will be
unveiled on Thursday,
March 5 to commemorate
the VC recipients born
overseas.
Special ceremony
for Scrooby VC
After an RAF career
that took him all over Britain and the Middle East he
settled in his ‘most loved
home’ in Monks Mill,
Scrooby, where he lived
a quiet life away from the
media spotlight.
He has a headstone at
Rosehill Crematorium in
Doncaster, although his
ashes are interred in Lincolnshire.
His son David, aged 76,
said: “I know he would
be delighted to know that
this event is happening.
“We are an interna-
tional family, with links
to communities far and
wide, from my mother’s
birthplace in Madras to
my son Nicholas who
was born in Wales and
has seen active service in
Iraq and Afghanistan.
“I am sad not to be able
to be present at the Commemoration Service, due
to my work helping rural
communities in Oman.
“But I am delighted
that my son Nicholas will
be there to represent the
family. It will be a proud
moment for all of us.”
VC holder: Second Lieutenant
Gilbert Insall
1950. I have a look at Google
Earth from time to time to
see how it now looks.
“We were a mile inside
Nottinghamshire, but our
address was Nr Doncaster,
Yorkshire.
“When
my
parents
bought the mill it had been
partly demolished and the
mill pond was the local rubbish tip.
“They were great gardeners, so over the years they
transformed it to a beautiful historic house, though
they never managed central heating.
“Sadly, my father never
saw the final section converted, but he would have
loved it.”
David said that despite
his father’s amazing exploits he was very shy of
publicity, so seldom gave
interviews.
David said that his mother decided to have his father’s ashes interred at
Nocton Church, near where
he died, after an argument
with the vicar of Bawtry.
When she died in 1983 in
Wales her ashes were interred next to his.
David said: “She was a
very devoted service wife,
taking her duties seriously.
At Padgate she ran an active group knitting woollens for servicemen at the
front, mainly pullovers and
balaclavas.
“In Scrooby she hosted a
bridge group but there was
some in-fighting, so she
dropped it.
“She was very kind to
certain neighbours, especially the Harrisons, a retired builder and his wife
Rose, giving them help and
advice over a number of
problems.
“On the other hand, my
parents had boundary disputes with certain neighbours due to Ordnance Survey errors and inadequate
drafting of deeds. In the
end they won out but it was
quite stressful at times.”
Historian Malcolm Dolby, who recalls chatting to
Insall about archaeology
during the late 1960s, describes him as a charming
gentleman, always referred
to in Scrooby as Group Captain Insall.
He said that Insall drove
a pre-war Jaguar saloon.
David said: “After the
old Ford 14 finally came to
rest in 1955 they bought a
3.5 litre pre-war Jaguar saloon. Then my mother, who
was a great sales-goer and
antique collector, bought
a second one, a drop-head
coupe at auction. The idea
was that one would provide
spares for the other, but
both were kept roadworthy.
“My mother did have a
mishap on ice on the road
to Bawtry, which put her
off driving for a while.
“After my father died she
sold the two cars for £70
each to a lucky dealer.”
‘My father never recovered after raid’
Group Captain Insall’s son
David believes that his
father’s amazing life was
brought to a premature end
partly by the shock of having his medals stolen by
sneak thieves in the late
’60s.
Wing Commander DH
Insall, WO, WKhM, aged
76, said: “In 1969 his medals were stolen along with
some family silver, mainly
wedding presents, including a candelabra given
to them by the Royal Air
Force.
“The thief, one with a
violent record we were
told, was later arrested and
produced the medals in the
hope of getting a lighter
sentence.
“The only other goods
retrieved were some silver
teaspoons, found in a field.
The rest had probably been
melted down. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
“The shock of being
tricked by the thieves, one
of whom kept him talking
at the garden fence, while
the other went in through
the front door, started a
spell of ill health, from
which he never recovered.
“My mother, Olwen, was
out shopping when they
came. He would have had a
go at them but didn’t know
what was going on at the
time: we have to be thankful as there could have been
a much worse outcome.
“He died of bronchial
Home: Group Captain Insall’s
beloved Monks Mill
pneumonia in RAF Nocton
Hall Hospital on February
17, 1972. I received a signal
through military channels
the next morning and flew
back from Oman the following day.
“He was given a great
funeral with full military
honours, his coffin paraded
around Bawtry.
“Six station commanders, wall group captains
were the pall bearers. My
elder brother Richard, a
barrister who died in 2012,
joined us from Leicester.
“I remember standing in
the cold wearing tropical
uniform (of the Northern
Frontier Regiment, Oman)
to be interviewed first by
the BBC and then by ITV in
front of No 1 Group Strike
Command HQ at Bawtry
Hall.
“The medals are now safe
in the RAF Museum at Hendon.
“Monks Mill, Scrooby,
was my home from about
‘Year of consolidation’ for the STAR
“A year of consolidation” for the
STAR was reported by the Editor
and Chairman, John Foster, at
the STAR’s annual meeting on
January 26.
“After all the changes of the
previous year, the move to fully
computerised production and the
purchase of the new printer,
2013 was the year in which we
have consolidated the progress
we have made,” he said.
He said the STAR had increased
its pagination over the year and
in December a record 44 page
issue was produced.
He thanked the secretary and
treasurer (Paul Hadley), the
advertising
manager
(Bill
Arrowsmith), and the printers
(Graham Hadley and Derek Gill),
for all their hard work over the
year,
along
with
all
the
contributors, typists, advertisers,
and distributers for all their hard
work over the year.
He also thanked the three local
parish
councils
(Scrooby,
Torworth and Ranskill) for their
continued financial support over
the year and said it was good
they see the STAR as a
worthwhile local asset.
But he appealed for more
volunteers to join the STAR
team. “We have little in reserve
at holiday times or in times of
illness,” he said, “and we need at
Women’s World
Day of Prayer
A special service to mark Women’s
World Day of Prayer is to be held in
St Wilfrid’s Church in Scrooby on
Friday March 6th (7pm).
Women’s World Day of Prayer is an
international, interchurch organisation
which enables everyone to hear the
voices of women, from a different part of
the world each year, expressing their
hopes and concerns and bringing them
before the rest of the world in prayer.
On March 6th, an estimated three million
people in more than 170 different
countries will gather to observe the day
of prayer, using an order of service
written by Christian women from The
Bahamas and translated into over 1,000
different languages and dialects.
In the British Isles alone, more than
5,000 services will be held.
The day begins when the sun rises over
the island of Samoa and continues until it
sets on the coast of American Samoa
many hours later.
The theme of this year’s service is taken
from St John’s Gospel and challenges
women to demonstrate the same radical,
unconditional love for others that Jesus
did when he washed the feet of the
disciples.
Everyone, men, women and people of all
ages, are invited to attend the service at
Scrooby after which light refreshments
will be served.
least one more volunteer printer,
an advertising assistant and an
editorial assistant.
A new volunteer, Mike Orritt,
joined the team to assist with the
monthly printing
“It would be very nice to welcome
some new, younger blood to join
the STAR’s team,” he said.
All the STAR’s officials and
committee
were
re-elected.
Chairman/Editor: John Foster;
secretary/treasurer: Paul Hadley;
advertising
manager:
Bill
Arrowsmith;
management
committee: three elected officials
plus Vaneeta Kilby, Chris Foster,
Graham Hadley, Tim Cotton,
Derek Gill.
The Things Children Say!
On Love and Marriage
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if
you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and
she should keep the chips and dip coming.
-- Alan, age 10
No person really decides before they grow up who they're
going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to
find out later who you're stuck with.
-- Kristen, age 10
Twenty-three is the best age to get married because you
know the person FOREVER by then..
-- Camille, age 10
HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE
MARRIED?
You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be
yelling at the same kids.
-- Derrick, age 8
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN
COMMON?
Both don't want any more kids.
-- Lori, age 8
WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get
to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you
listen long enough.
-- Lynnette, age 8
A real pain in the neck!
If you are suffering from neck pain, Physiotherapy can help.
Neck pain could be caused by poor posture, arthritis or accidents.
Neck pain is a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) which also includes back pain and
repetitive strain injury (RSI), now known as Work Relevant Upper Limb Disorder
(WRULD).
Physiotherapy is very effective with MSDs. In one study, 80 per cent of people who had
physiotherapy for their MSD were able to carry on working without having to take sick
leave.
Physiotherapists are highly skilled at supporting people with neck pain. Your physio will
be able to assess your problem and may give you hands-on treatment such as manual
therapy or acupuncture. They can advise you on the right exercises to reduce your neck
pain, as well as giving advice on pain relief and how to prevent further problems.
Tips for reducing neck pain:
 Check your posture, so that you hold yourself comfortably upright
 Gently strengthen your neck muscles, to help support your head
 Take regular breaks from desk work, driving or any activity where your neck is held
in one position
 Keep your neck active and mobile to prevent stiffness but avoid bending your neck
back though
 Avoid reading for long in bed or using too many pillows
 Shrug and lower your shoulders to ease tight muscles
 Check your eyesight in case reading is making you stoop
 Practice relaxation if you are prone to stress, to reduce tension
across your shoulders and neck
To Book an appointment at our clinic with one of our team of
highly qualified Physiotherapists call 01302 511755 or email
info@blizardphysiotherapy.co.uk
Caroline Hennigan BSc(Hons), MCSP, HPC, is from Blizard
Physiotherapy
CARAVAN FOR RENT
Large modern 3 bedroom
caravan to let at Ingoldmells
near Skegness.
New Luxury Cattery
Personally designed with extra-large penthouse units
each having fully insulated and heated sleeping quarters.
They have a spacious lower level exercise area with two
raised seating points to create a comfortable home for
your cats to sit back and enjoy the panoramic view of our
countryside.
White Gates Farm, Blyth Road, Ranskill, RETFORD DN22 8LT
Tel: 01777 817389 | Mob: 0781 358 9124
Web: www.whitegatescattery.co.uk
Email: whitegatescattery@gmail.com
Close to beach, Butlins and
Fantasy Island.
All mod cons provided
includes travel cot and baby
bath.
Secured veranda.
Families and mature couples
only.
£50 deposit will secure dates.
Tel 07756 145776
Do you want to build
a snowman, children?
Fun in the snow: Children enjoying the snow at Ranskill Nursery, above and, below, playing in the hospital corner
Cherry Tree Walk, Ranskill, Notts. DN22 8LH
Looking for a Nursery for your child – Rated Good by Ofsted.
We have a purpose built Nursery in Ranskill ready for you to come
and see. Our opening hours are 7:30am until 6:00pm.
We take children from 2 years of age to school age. Good OFSTED
and high staff ratio. All our staff are qualified to Level 3 or above
and are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment
for your child.
Ranskill Nursery staff and
children have been as busy
as ever this half term.
They have enjoyed their
time in the snow, had the
home corner transformed
into a hospital, where
they all enjoyed helping
each other get better and
learned about Chinese
New Year.
There was even an appearance from James Bond.
They also welcomed a
new member of staff, Samantha Brearley to our
fantastic team.
Sam achieved her Level
3 Diploma at Ranskill last
year and is already making a great impact within
nursery.
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and have
strong links with Ranskill Primary School. We have facilities for
children with disabilities and SENCO trained staff.
Only £3.50 a hour. Your first 15 hours Government funded for all
3- 4-year-olds. You may also qualify for a free early years place
for a 2 year old.
We run a stay and play session on a Tuesday afternoon from 3.30
until 4.30 if you would like to visit the nursery.
For more information please ring Karen Meakin on 01777 816066,
email us at ranskillnursery@gmail.com or visit the website at
www.ranskillnursery.co.uk.
JHS Joinery
Qualified Joiner
Good Work at a
Fair Price
See in colour on website: the-star.org.uk
MISSING FROM ARUNDLE DRIVE
Reggie is a 3 year old Bengal cat who has been missing since
November. He is a much loved family pet and any information is
appreciated. A reward on return of Reggie will be given.
Tel 07454 393993 or 07756 145776
Need
help
with
property
repair and
maintenance
headaches?
Laminate Floor Specialist,
Dado, Skirting and Architrave,
Doors (internal and external),
Kitchen and Bedroom Fitting,
Tiling - Wall and Floor,
Spindle Staircases,
Interior Decorative Work,
Gates and Exterior Joinery Work.
Any other work considered.
Contact: J.H.S. Joinery
Tel: 01302 775184
cpr
cross property repairs
first aid for all your
property repair needs
07966 402399
Professional and
reliable service
with over 25 years
experience
Call Brian for a no
obligation quote.
No call out fee.
ANNIE’S OF BAWTRY
Scrooby Village Hall
Tuesdays 7.30-8.30
Everton Village Hall
Wednesdays 7.30-8.30
(also Stability Ball Class 6.30—7.30)
QUALIFIED NAIL TECHNICIAN
MANICURES & PEDICURES
IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME
for more information call
Annie
01302 711289
07813 280147
ann.edmunds@hotmail.co.uk
Put a spring back
into your step.
“SHELLAC GEL POWER POLISH”
14+ DAY NAIL COLOUR
ALSO
“VINYLUX”
7 DAY NAIL COLOUR
Zumba is an effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired,
calorie-burning dance fitness workout.
Beginners always welcome.
Phone Sharron 07810 833526
St. Wilfrid’s The Passage of Time
Scrooby parishioners have welcomed the return to accurate
timekeeping and the restored chimes of the church clock.
This has not been without effort...
Why does Scrooby’s church clock face south, away from the majority of the village’s houses? The tower clock of St.
Wilfrid’s church was installed in 1895 by Samuel Sharp of Retford and was financed by a village resident who stipulated
that it should be located on the south face of the tower so that he could see it from his home. The south side location
also chimed with the historical fact that in the middle ages country parishes depended on a simple sundial scratched on
the south wall of the church.
In England the first mechanical clock was installed at Canterbury in 1292; while in c.1320 Richard of Wallingford, a
Benedictine monk of St. Albans, constructed a clock which not only indicated the time in hours and minutes but also
showed the tides, the phases of the moon and the positions of the sun and planets. Later that century saw the advent of
the turret striking clock.
For the technically minded the Scrooby clock was supplied by Smiths of Derby and is a flat bed, hand wound striking clock
with a pin wheel escapement and count wheel striking. The dial is finished black and gold and the hands are from brass
sheet. What is unusual is the location of the winding platform 6 metres above floor level. A good head for heights is
required when winding.
In 2012, together with my fellow churchwarden Gordon Ashworth, we decided to run the clock, which had not operated
for some time, and had not been serviced for a few years. Gratifyingly it ran but had to be nursed along. So began my
weekly climb into the rafters to rewind the clock. However, eventually the clock started to run erratically. Fortunately the
village has many highly skilled people and I was able to obtain the skilled engineering help of Andy Cawley and James
Arrowsmith who gave time and thought to nursing the mechanism through that winter.
Eventually the years of non-use brought the mechanism to a complete stop in early 2013. I then called on the knowledge
and skills of Andrew Bates of Bygone Times, who is based at the Elsecar Heritage Centre, and is a specialist in turret
clocks (in fact all kinds of timepieces). He cleaned and serviced the mechanisms and undertook temporary repairs
thereby helping to spread costs over the next two years when permanent repairs could be made. Again in April 2014 the
clock stopped, caused by one of the bevel gears in the bell assembly seizing. This was repaired and also three new weight
pulleys were fitted to the going side weight lines and a full service was given. This spring will see final refurbishment of
the pulleys and following a service the clock will be in good order.
To have come this far, in addition to those mentioned above, a grateful thanks is extended to the community
organisations - the Scrooby Parish Council and the Scrooby Show Committee - without whose support the project could
not have been progressed thus far.
Maurice Clapham, churchwarden.
Dog Tutorial College
Kennel Club Accredited.
Founder member KC dog scheme.
Dog obedience, agility, flyball, and rally-o (new sport).
Puppy training.
Kennel club good citizen test.
Behaviourist, home visits
available.
Phone 01909 591442
For all your heating and plumbing needs.
Specialists in Oil, Gas, Solid fuel and Renewables.
Gas safe, Oftec, Hetas registered.
We install, service and repair:
BOILERS - oil, gas, solid fuel
Full heating systems
STOVES - Wood burners and dual fuel
AGA, Rayburn, Stanley cookers
Solar thermal
Biomass
Heat pumps
Retford Memorials
Buy with confidence
from a local BRAMM
approved family
business.
Large showroom or
phone for a home visit.
Free colour brochures.
Renovation specialist.
6 Churchgate • Retford
Tel: 01777 705673
Call James for a free quote on 07940159459 or 01777 701668
email: retfordmemorials@gmail.com
Dan Atkinson
Please
mention
The Star
when
responding to
Advertisers.
DPA CONTRACTORS
Tel: 01777 701777 or 07814 563706
All types of tree work carried out
City & Guilds NPTC Qualified
Felling/Pruning/Removal
Hedge cutting/Grass Cutting
All clippings/cuttings/brash removed
Chainsaw/mower/Strimmer repairs
Chipper hire available
SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £50 / bulk bag (£45 each for 2+) - free local delivery
FOUND
near Serlby Golf Course.
Key ring with a Motif attached to
a small torch and door key.
Ring 01777 818519.
LOST
One of the large tables from Scrooby
Village Hall is missing.
If you’ve borrowed it please can you
return it ASAP.
C.W.
Painting and
Decorating
Interior and
Exterior
Free Estimates
OAP Discounts
30 years experience.
Plus small building
projects e.g.
Brick pointing
Boundary walls
Tel Clint:
01302 310455
or mobile
07599 053739
Don’t get caught by a “lottery” scam
Action Fraud, the national Fraud
and Cyber Crime Reporting
Centre, have issued a warning
about lottery scams.
A lottery scam takes place when
criminals pretend that you have
won a prize, often in a lottery.
The people most likely to fall
victim to this tend to be over the
age of 60 (although younger
people do fall victim too), and
Action Fraud say it is often close
family members of the victims
who spot the tell-tale signs of the
fraud.
Criminals will normally get in
touch by letter or email and will
try to engage you into dialogue
with them.
Once they have
convinced you that they are
“genuine”, they will ask for a fee
to be paid to release your
winnings.
This fee could be to pay taxes or
duty, or for a solicitor, banker or
judge
to
authorise
the
transaction. No genuine lottery
will ever ask for any sort of fee
to be paid.
Often this first fee will be small,
but once they know you are
willing to pay it they will ask for
more and more money, with ever
-changing excuses as to why
they need it. Victims can end up
losing tens of thousands of
pounds over the course of
months or even years.
Many people reading this will be
surprised that this type of crime
takes place. After all, why would
anyone fall prey to scam like this
when they never entered any
such lottery in the first place?
Why would they have to pay
money when they are supposed
to have won millions of pounds?
But the sad truth is that these
criminals
are
incredibly
persuasive and prey on people
who are very trusting. Therefore,
even if you know that you would
not get defrauded like this,
please spread this message
widely to friends, family and to
people within your community.
Prevention
If you have not entered a lottery
or a prize draw, you cannot have
won it.
Delete any emails which detail
you winning money or being in a
position to make a fortune.
Spread this message amongst
people you come into contact
with, especially older people in
your family, and look out for any
unusual behaviour, for instance
someone paying money via
money service bureaux, like
Western Union or MoneyGram,
or buying Ukash vouchers.
Women’s
Institute
Ranskill and Torworth
Women’s Institute will
be meeting on
Tuesday March 24th
when the speaker for
the evening will be
Mrs. Sam Glasswell
from the Bassetlaw
Museum Retford.
Her subject "Life in
the 1940’s and 50's"
together with
illustrations.
We meet on the fourth
Tuesday in the month
in the Village Hall.
Kennel Drive, Barnby
Moor, commencing
7.30.p.m.
Visitors are always
welcome. Transport
could be arranged.
For further information
please telephone.
01777 818519.
Pat Blatchford
A Fashion Show and Clothes sale by S.O.S. Fashions, will be held
by Ranskill and Torworth Women’s Institute in St. Barnabas’ Church,
Great North Road, Ranskill on Wednesday March 4th, commencing
at 7.30.p.m.
The clothes are all major High Street brands sizes 8 to 30. at greatly
reduced prices. These will be modelled and you will be able to
purchase on the evening. (Credit cards accepted)
Tickets cost £5 and Include refreshments. They are available from
D. Perkins ( 01777 817505), or P. Blatchford ( 01777 818519).
Also available on the night at the door.
W. H. OTTLEY LTD.
Blyth Road, Ranskill
Telephone 01777 818621
Horse, Pig, Poultry & Cattle
Feed all Pet Food,
Large and Small
Amounts
Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Birds
Complete Feeds
Tinned Dog & Cat
Meat, Biscuits
Rabbit Mix and Pellets
Also Horsehage & Shavings
Agents for FLOGAS
Plus a range of grow bags,
compost, peat & ornamental
bark
Open
Mon-Fri 8.0 a.m—5.30 p.m
Closed for Lunch 12-1.30
Open Saturdays 9 a.m—1 p.m
P. Clay Fabrications
Quality Gates & Railings made to measure
Manual or Automated
Security Grilles - Weather Vanes
www.pclayfabrications.co.uk
01427 890482 or 07811 693808
WANTED
Personal Care Staff




Pusto Hill Farm
Eel Pool Road
Everton DN10 5DD
www.pustohillfarm.co.uk
jean.bere@btinternet.com
or call 01777 818029
We have a number of positions open immediately to
support a Physically Disabled young man in his own
home.
Day shifts Personal Assistant
Night Sitting (must be experienced and able to do weekends)
Late evenings Personal Assistant
(7 day week, could suit Job Share)
Cleaning and Household staff (30 hrs)
The right rate of pay for the right person in a quiet
environment.
If YOU are the person we are looking for please contact or send a CV
to :
 0790 003 3650, or
 nscarerscheme@btinternet.com
Book Review: Two Brothers by Ben Elton
The opening scenes of the book
show the effects of the First
World War on Berliners and
how their currency crashed in
the 1920's. It traces the
development of the Nazi party
and how they stirred up antiSemitism. It tells the story of two
brothers whose parents have a
secret. They are brought up in a
Jewish family. It paints a strong
yet bleak picture of life in Berlin
under the control of the Nazis.
The key to the story lies with the
two
brothers
and
their
relationship with two young girls
with whom they are brought up,
one from a wealthy family and
one from a much poorer family.
It gives a sad picture of life at
this time for all Jewish people in
Berlin. However, what it does
Mothers’
Union
Members of Ranskill Mothers’
Union met on February 11th in
the Church Meeting room. We
were welcomed for our first
meeting of 2015 by Pat Gill,
and Liz Taylor led us in prayer.
The speaker was Amy Davy
who works at Bassetlaw
Museum in Retford. She
brought with her a large
collection of items from the
1950's which she displayed for
us to look at. These brought
back many memories so there
was plenty of lively discussion.
Her
collection
included
clothing, household items,
advertisements, photographs
(mainly of Retford in the '50's)
and newspapers. The meeting
continued with tea and flapjack
and
even
more
shared
memories.
Our next meeting is a Lady
Day service at 7pm in St.
Barnabas Church on March
11th. It will be led by Lyndis
Rowley.
This is an open meeting to
which everyone is invited.
not give is a complete picture,
as there were also German
families who spoke out against
the Nazis and they are not even
mentioned, unless they were
also communists.
There are certain imperfections
in the writing style but it is still a
very powerful story. One of the
difficulties I have with this book
is that the conversations
between the two boys are far
too modern sounding. The other
difficulty is that it switches from
1920 to 1956 back to 1930. It
does not stay long enough in
1956 to give a satisfactory view
of the whole story, in fact it feels
somewhat artificial and may well
have been better to tell it
entirely chronologically. It feels
somewhat
irksome
and
unbalanced at times.
The
plot
becomes
more
unbelievable as time goes on.
There may well be elements of
it which are true, but one
deception after another leaves
the reader in a state of disbelief.
It does however beg the
question how many lies would
you tell to protect your own life
and that of others in your
family? How many other people
would you betray in these
circumstances?
I am inclined to the view of a
Telegraph reviewer, that the
summary of the true story of
Ben Elton's family history (at the
end of the book) would have
been a better story.
Mrs. M. Law
Ranskill Book Club
Genuine Holiday Complaints
As you plan your summer holiday, here are some GENUINE
complaints received by holiday company Thomas Cook.
1. "It should be explained in the brochure that the local store does
not sell proper biscuits like custard creams or ginger nuts."
2. "It's lazy of the local shopkeepers to close in the afternoons. I
often needed to buy things during 'siesta' time - this should be
banned."
3. "On my holiday to Goa in India, I was disgusted to find that almost
every restaurant served curry. I don't like spicy food at all."
4. "We booked an excursion to a water park but no-one told us we
had to bring our swimming costumes and towels."
5. "The beach was too sandy."
6. "We found the sand was not like the sand in the brochure. Your
brochure shows the sand as yellow but it was white."
7. "Topless sunbathing on the beach should be banned. The holiday
was ruined as my husband spent all day looking at other women."
8. "No-one told us there would be fish in the sea. The children were
startled."
9. "There was no egg slicer in the apartment..."
10. "We went on holiday to Spain and had a problem with the taxi
drivers as they were all Spanish."
11. "The roads were uneven."
12. "It took us nine hours to fly home from Jamaica to England it only
took the Americans three hours to get home."
13. "I compared the size of our one-bedroom apartment to our
friends' three-bedroom apartment and ours was significantly
smaller.."
14. "There are too many Spanish people in Spain. The receptionist
speaks Spanish. The food is Spanish. Too many foreigners now live
abroad."
Martin
TUESDAYS
2 – 3.20
Term time
For babies, toddlers,
their mums, dads,
nannies, grandparents
Interior Decorator
For personal and
friendly service
or other carers
We’re in the Nursery at
the back of Ranskill
Primary School
Do just drop in!
Little Owls is a thriving baby and toddler group. We meet on Tuesday afternoons in
term time between 2.00pm and 3.20pm in the Nursery which is located at the back
of Ranskill Primary School. There are toys, puzzles, a craft activity, and all sorts of
fun each week for the children. Parents, grandparents, nannies and other carers
have time to chat, make friends and support one another over a cup of tea or coffee.
We do ask for a donation of £1.50 to cover the costs of these sessions. Come and
join us – you will be very welcome.
For more details
Contact Karen Meakin/Steven Owens 01777 816066
Email ranskillnursery@gmail.com
General Builder N.S.
Window
GEOFF KELSEY Cleaning
All Building Work
undertaken
Walls, Patios, Pointing,
Tiling, Brickwork,
Rendering, etc.
No job too small
Free Estimates
Telephone:
01302 771299
Mobile:
07887 980871
Services
Free quote &
estimate
call
01777 710493
or mobile
07802420646
Local Dog Walker
Available
Fully insured.
Reliable, trustworthy dog lover.
Window Cleaning
Gutter and Fascia
Cleaning & Clearing
U.P.V.C. Cleaning
Reliable and Friendly
Service
With over 20 years
experience
For a free no
obligations quote
please call on
Telephone:
01302 390410
Personal Training
Lose fat. Build Muscle
Diet plans and Nutritional advice
In- house or Gym
Contact Colin Bower
07854362878
colinbower@live.co.uk
Competitive rates.
Please call 07853 261346
HOPKIN Robert Walker
‘Bob’
Barbara, William and family
would like to thank relatives,
friends and neighbours for all
their kind expressions of
sympathy, cards of condolence
and charitable donations
received during their recent sad
bereavement.
Special thanks to Revd. Kate
Bottley, for the wonderful
service, all the staff at The Old
Vicarage Care Home and The
Blue Bell, Ranskill for the
excellent refreshments.
Don’t fall for the ‘free trial’ scam
Action Fraud, the National Fraud
Centre, is warning about a new
“free trial” scam that can end up
costing you a lot of money.
The scam usually involves signing
up for free trials for unapproved or
misleading pharmaceuticals or
supplements.
It usually starts with a ‘pop up’ on
your computer or a text message
advertising a free 14-day trial. But,
in signing up to this trial you are
Easter Fair and Egg Hunt
Enjoy a great day out on Sunday March 29th with plenty of family fun
hunting for Easter Eggs, plus refreshments and delicious homemade
cakes for the adults at the RSPCA Easter Fair at the South Yorkshire
Animal Centre on the Great North Road, Bawtry.
The fun event raises vital funds for animals we have rescued from
cruelty and neglect. In 2014 we re-homed over 1,000 animals. The
Fair will be open from 11am to 2pm.
History in words and photographs
Nine months of hard work has gone into a book detailing the
history of Ranskill and Torworth, a copy of which can now be
seen in Ranskill Parish Church.
The book has been written and compiled by Hilary Skelton, who lives
at Torworth and is a former clerk to Ranskill Parish Council.
Hilary was responsible for the highly acclaimed display of old
photographs of Ranskill and Torworth at last year’s Village and
Scarecrow Festival, and she said the idea of the book stemmed from
that exhibition.
“The book is really a compilation of the work of a lot of other people,”
said Hilary, “and I am grateful to everyone who has helped me and
who has given me permission to reproduce their work and their
photographs.”
Hilary has donated a copy of the book to St Barnabas’ Church and
has kept a copy for herself and her family, but reproduction costs
make publication of the book unlikely.
However, it is a unique, detailed history of the two villages in
photographs, words, maps and historic documents
asked for your credit or debit card
details and after the 14 days have
elapsed, recurring payments are
taken.
Recurring payments or continuous
payment authorities are similar to
a direct debit, but can be much
harder to cancel or identify who is
debiting your account
In most cases victims are finding it
extremely difficult to cancel the
subscription and the products are
either not delivered or are inferior.
Common
pharmaceuticals
or
supplements being advertised are
teeth whitening products, food
supplements
and
slimming
tablets.
If you desire such products speak
to your GP or a local pharmacist.
Be vigilant of free trials and
always read the Terms and
Conditions.
Conduct basic online research of
the company before registering
your
details
and
financial
information.
It is important to remember that in
most free-trial cases because you
have paid for a product and
received it, this cannot be
recorded as a fraud.
If you have already entered your
card details on one of these
websites, call up you bank
immediately
to
stop
these
payments and give us a call on
0300 123 2040
for advice.
Nottinghamshire Wildlife TrustWorksop Branch
As usual we have arranged a diverse programme to cover all things great and
small. Recently the presenters have shown us the wonders of Australia and
Botswana, yet occasionally it's the places and wildlife on our doorsteps that
are as equally fascinating. Our next talk will be just that.
Tuesday March17th 2015 - Robert Bower - Carburton Watermeadows
Robert Bower is a Higher Stewardship Award farmer who is passionate about
the water meadows situated on his land along with its diversity of wildlife,
plants and flowers it attracts. He shares his interest with his illustrated talk.
Tuesday April 21st 2015 - Leigh Howarth- Marine Wildlife in our UK waters.
Leigh Howarth works for the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and with a PhD in
Marine Biology he was delighted to have the opportunity to share his images
and knowledge of the wonders under our British waters.
Venue : Station Hotel ,Carlton Rd Worksop S801PS Start 7.30pm
Contacts : Su McIlwaine 07530 475041 Alvin Green 01909 47627
www.worksopnwt.org.uk £1.50 (non members always welcome £2.00)
Villages
Together
speakers
The speakers for March
are:
March 3rd: David Dawson - The Chesterfield
Canal.
March 17th: John
Simpson -The Lions.
March 31st: Ann Hickman - The Royal British
Legion.
Meetings are held at
Mattersey Church Hall.
Commencing at
1.45pm. All welcome.
DC GARDEN SERVICES
NPTC QUALIFIED &
INSURED TREE SURGEONS
ALL TREE, GARDENING & LANDSCAPING
TREE REDUCTIONS, PRUNING & FELLING
CROWN LIFTING / THINNING ETC
STUMP GRINDING, LAWNS & HEDGES CUT
FENCING, PATIOS & MUCH MORE!
CONTACT DEAN ON:
TEL: 01777 249277
MOB: 07973 341604
EMAIL: dcgardenservices@mail.com
GROUND FLOOR FLAT
TO RENT
SCROOBY
1 bedroom - clean and tidy
With garden
Short or long term
£80 per week
(£320 deposit)
Call 07736 548264
LOGS
AVAILABLE
JOHN BIRD
STUDIO
3, Dower House Square
Bawtry
Telephone: 01302 714872
ART GALLERY AND
PICTURE FRAMING
Opening times:
Wednesday
10.30—5.00
Thursday to Saturday
10.00—5.00
Sunday
11.00—4.00
Originals and limited
editions by leading
artists
www.johnbirdart.co.uk
HYPNOTHERAPY and REIKI BLYTH
I am a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Reiki Master who can help with
stress, confidence, insomnia, weight management, smoking
cessation, anxiety, habits, pain management, performance, past life
regression, and many more …
Reiki is a relaxation technique to help heal mind and body.
Contact Lesley to book a treatment or ask any questions.
07544 817560
reikiblyth@gmail.com
www.hypnotherapyblyth.moonfruit.co.uk
www.reikiblyth.webeden.co.uk
BuzzOFF
Pest Solutions
Fully insured member of
NPTA. 25 years experience.
Worked for Bassetlaw DC for 33
years until they have withdrawn
the pest control services.
Wasps, bees, ants, rats, mice,
fleas, bedbugs, moles, feral
pigeons, etc.
Any other pests, please phone.
For care and support when you
need it the most
Personal service 24 hours a day. Independent family business.
Established for over 90 years. Pre-payment plans available.
19, Thorne Road, Bawtry, Doncaster,
DN10 6QL
Tel 01302 710285
www.wepinder.com
OAP prices start
from just £35.
Other prices start
from just £39.
Commercial prices start from
£39. Yearly contracts can be
arranged.
Please phone Paul Mob: 07706 747073 or
Tel: 01777 816074
Email: buzzoffps@outlook.com
Web: buzzoffpestsolutions.co.uk
VILLAGE WEBSITE
Bowls Club
seeking
new members
If you haven’t been on the website
recently, then you won’t have seen the
improvements that have been made and
the up-to-date information it now
contains.
Take a look on www.ranskill.org.uk
We’re still on the lookout for more and
we’d like to post details of events
happening in and around the village about
which residents might like to know.
If you have any information (preferably in
Word format) or suggestions, please
contact me:
Terry Stables, Clerk to the Parish Council
tel: 01777 816648 or
emailparishcouncil@ranskill.org.uk
RANSKILL AND TORWORTH
SCARECROW AND VILLAGE
FESTIVAL
An invitation to owners of
VINTAGE/ CLASSIC CARS,
TRACTORS OR
MOTORCYCLES
to come and join us
In Torworth Village Park, Holds Lane
ON SUNDAY 7TH JUNE
From 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
There will also be the ‘Red London Bus’,
Fire Engine, Vintage afternoon teas,
Barbecue, Craft stalls, dog agility, the
Retford Scout Band, Nature Safari,
Sports events and lots more.
Plus jointly with Ranskill a
‘Grand Raffle’.
For further information regarding the vintage vehicles
please contact Hilary Skelton on 01777 818545 or email
hilary@maltkilnfarm.co.uk
With the new outdoor season just around
the corner, Ranskill Bowls Club is looking
to attract some new members.
The outdoor season starts on April 18th
and a special Open Day has been
arranged to welcome potential new
members.
If you have ever fancied “having a go” at
crown green bowls, this is your chance. A
warm welcome awaits you and the club
has bowls available for new members to
come along and enjoy a game.
Throughout the summer months the club
holds outdoor sessions on Thursday
evenings (6pm) and Saturday afternoons
(2pm). Cup and
league competitions
are held throughout
the summer and
indoor sessions are
held in the winter.
So, for a free
introductory game
just turn up on April
18th (2pm).
Ranskill & Torworth
Scarecrow and Village Festival
Sunday, June 7th 2015
In Torworth Village Park
11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Do you have a craft or skill, products to sell,
Can you do ‘face painting’, nail art, make pottery
etc.
Then why not complete the
booking form below and join in the fun of the
festival
Name
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Address
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Post code ……………………………………… Tel. No……………………………………..
Email:…………………………………………………………………………………
Nature of stall……………………………………………………………………………………
I enclose a cheque made payable to ‘Ranskill and Torworth Village
Festival
Sunday - £5 provide own gazebo (we will provide a trestle
table) – commercial by arrangement.
For further details contact Hilary Skelton on 01777 818545
Return form to Maltkiln Farm, Low Street, Torworth,
Retford, Notts. DN22 8NX
Email: hilary@maltkilnfarm.co.uk
Supporting Your IT
Need Computer
Help ?
Need Help with your PC/Mac?
Slow Broadband?
Our Services include :
Would you like to get the most out of your
Tablet or Smartphone?
 PC hardware and software
support
Want to stream music or video across your
home network ?
 Website Design
 Remote Support
 PC Security
 WiFi Networking
Sunstone IT
TEL : 01777 800225 Mobile : 07985 258054
Email : info@sun-stone.co.uk Twitter : @SunstoneIT
We are local to Ranskill
HOME VISIT
SERVICE
RECRUITING
Compassionate Care Team
Local Homecare Agency
Caring and compassionate staff
Vacancies full or part-time
Must be able to drive, full
training offered and Level 2
Health and Social Care
Registered with CQC
01777 816249 / 07814889662
ROBERT WASTENEY
Dip. CFHP, MPS Pract.MVR
Foot Health Practitioner
01777 710000
A. SAMUEL
PLUMBING & HEATING





Bathroom design & installation
Luxury hydro baths & showers
Disability adaptation
Ceramic wall & floor tiling
General plumbing, cylinders,
tanks & repairs
Nail Cutting
Corn & Callus Removal
Verruca Treatment
Diabetic Foot Care
For an appointment call






Boiler design and installation
Under floor heating specialist
Radiators & pipe work
2 MEN WITH
A VAN
FOR HIRE
Single items to Full Houses
Power flushing
All drainage & blockages
UPVC gutters & rainwater
No call out charges. Free written quotations.
Competitive rates. Emergency call out.
For all Domestic & Commercial plumbing needs.
All work guaranteed.
Fast efficient reliable and friendly service assured.
Contact Adrian on
07842 057629 or 01623 861844
LOW
PRICES
All jobs
considered
Mob: 0755 000 2242
or Tel: 0177 770 2779
Christian Perspective
I remember some time ago sitting in a
hairdressers, and the young lady who was
cutting my hair asking me what work I
did. When I explained I worked for a Christian
organisation, she began to rather defensively
explain why she no longer lived with her
previous live-in boyfriend ‘because he was
bad for the children’, as if somehow she felt
guilty about it. I wondered why she should feel
she needed to tell me about this and I didn’t
have much to say at the time. But as I thought
about it afterwards it seemed that something
in her thinking was back to front.
Often we think that being a Christian is
behaving in a certain way, and that if we do
things right, God will accept us. But the Bible
tells us that no matter how good we try to be
we will never be good enough for God,
because God is holy and perfect, and sin
creates an impenetrable barrier.
But Jesus came, the perfect, sinless Son
of God, became like one of us and died on the
cross in the place of those who would repent
and believe. That is how we become a
Christian. When God sees a repentant heart,
someone trusting in his Son (and he’s always
on the look-out) his acceptance is immediate.
We can never come on our own merits, but
only and always in the merits of Jesus Christ.
Then we receive the grace and the
strength to live in a new way. God gives his
Holy Spirit to those who come to him through
his Son, so that Paul could write from prison to
the Ephesian believers: As a prisoner for the
Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the
calling you have received. Be completely
humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with
one another in love.
Ephesians 4:1.
He wrote this
knowing that in the
power and strength
available to them in
their new position,
as people accepted in Christ, they would be
able to do it. He tells them there is to be a
putting off of the old and putting on of the new
and ‘to be made new in the attitude of your
minds; and to put on the new self, created to
be like God in true righteousness and
holiness’. That’s right way round thinking.
Brenda Critchley
Asterisk Sudoku Puzzle - Medium
Puzzle for March
Asterisk Sudoku
About this puzzle
Sudoku is a logic-based, numberplacement puzzle. The aim of Sudoku is to
enter a number from 1 to 9 in each cell of a
9×9 grid made up of 3×3 subgrids. Each row,
column and region must contain only one
instance of each number.
This Sudoku variant is known as
“Asterisk Sudoku”. The central shaded cells
of each region form an extra region that must
also contain the numbers 1 to 9. The solution
is included elsewhere in the STAR.
For more free puzzles, go to:
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
6
3
5
9
4
8
3
5
5
4
3
1
7
6
6
3
8
2
7
7
5
1
9
2
5
3
7
2
8
7
3
8
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
8
3
4
MOBILE
LIBRARY
Reg. no. 18265095
Your Local Approved
Digital Installer for...




The mobile library will visit
Ranskill and
Torworth on March 27th
and
Scrooby on March 10th
Aerial & Satellite Dish Installations  Home cinema solutions
Reception issues solved
 Wireless and wired networks
Sky links and magic eyes
 New telephone points
CCTV systems
For information about
requested titles or
particular items of stock,
please contact:
01777 817036 Mobile 07866 562933
Worksop Library –
01909 535353
email greg@eclipseaerialsystems.co.uk
RDI Registered & CRB checked. City & Guilds qualified.
worksop.library@nottscc.gov.uk
Email:
Visit our website - www.eclipseaerialsystems.co.uk
THE PARK
Health & Beauty Centre
Physiotherapy. Beauty Therapy
and Complementary Therapy
Treatment of Red Veins
Electrolysis hair removal
Sports and Remedial Massage
Osteopathy and Cranio-sacral Therapy
Reiki.
Meditation classes
Tai Chi.
Yoga
01777 860377
London Road, Retford. DN22 7EB
We can’t give you a new body but we can make a difference!
Jasmine Trust Yoga
Come and visit our beautiful yoga centre in the heart of the
Babworth country estate.
We offer a wide range of yoga classes for all levels and agilities.
Tai chi, Pilates, Mindfulness and Yoga in Pregnancy.
Teacher training and therapies also available.
Call us: 01777 711770 email: info@jasminetrust.co.uk
www.jasminetrust.co.uk
OORE GAS LTD
INSTALLATIONS, PLUMBING,
SERVICE & REPAIR
No call out charges
Free Quotes
24 hour Emergency
Call Out
Reliable Small Family
Run Business









Gas Safe Registered
Boiler Installation Expert
Boiler Service & Repairs
Bathrooms Fully Fitted
Radiators Supplied & Fitted
All Aspects of Plumbing
No Job Too Big or Small
Power Flushing/Systems Cleaned
Grants for Over 60’s
All enquiries please call Mitchell on
Mobile: 07725 009741. Home 01427 881175
Email: mooregasltd@yahoo.com
WELL
ROTTED
HORSE
MANURE
For sale
75p a bag
Can deliver
Small charge
for delivery
Minimum order
10 bags
Tel: 01777
818209(Ranskill)
Garden Bird of the Month—Great Spotted Woodpecker
Hello, I am an Ambassador for the British Trust for Ornithology’s
(BTO) Garden BirdWatch scheme in Nottinghamshire. Each month, I
introduce a bird or other creature that you might see in your garden.
People are usually very excited when they see a Great-spotted
Woodpecker in their garden. After all, it is a very distinctive and
conspicuous bird. There are two black and white woodpeckers to be found
in the UK, the common Great-spotted Woodpecker which is Starling sized,
and the smaller Sparrow-sized, Lesser-spotted Woodpecker which is now
an uncommon species. The male and female Great-spotted Woodpecker
both have the same pied plumage and area of red underneath the tail but
only the male has a red patch on its nape. Juveniles are also black and
white but are not as well marked as adults and they have a small red cap.
If you see a woodpecker in flight you will observe that it flies with an
undulating manner. Sometimes you will hear it before you see it as its call
is a strident ‘kek’ sound. The Great-spotted Woodpecker is found mainly
in rural areas and broadleaf woodland but it may also be found in towns,
especially large gardens and parkland. Amongst trees, you may see it
crawl up and around the trunks as it searches for its main diet of insects
and grubs under bark or dead wood which it extracts with its long, sticky
tongue. It will also take the eggs and chicks of smaller species of birds.
Members of the Tit family and other hole nesting birds are particularly
vulnerable to attack by the Great-spotted Woodpecker.If you hang out
feeders containing peanuts, sunflower hearts and fat you may be fortunate
enough to see this interesting bird in your garden.
Jean Parrot
If you enjoy watching birds and other creatures in your
garden, then BTO GBW may be perfect for you. Please
contact me for a free enquiry pack on 0770 4809741 or
jpbirds@talktalk.net
The Great Spotted Woodpecker
Picture by Jean Parrott
IMPOSSIBILITIES IN THE WORLD
Solution to March puzzle
1) You can't count your hair.
2) You can't wash your eyes with soap.
3) You can't breathe when your tongue is out.
Put your tongue back in your mouth, you silly person.
Ten (10) Things I know about you.
1) You are reading this.
2) You are human.
3) You can't say the letter ''P'' without separating your lips.
4) You just attempted to do it.
6) You are laughing at yourself.
7) You have a smile on your face and you skipped No. 5.
8) You just checked to see if there is a No. 5.
9) You laugh at this because you are a fun loving person & everyone does it too.
10) You are probably going to send this to see who else falls for it.
. Have a great Day. Laugh, and then Laugh and sing It's a Beautiful Morning
even when it's not.
"Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many."
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
Please mention
the STAR when
responding to
advertisers
C.M. SNOWDEN ROOFING & BUILDING
GREAT NORTH ROAD, RANSKILL.
Tel: 01777 817705 Mob: 07973 824567
YOUR LOCAL BUILDER, A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY,
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Plastering and Rendering, Internal & External
Extensions, Boundary Walls, Drives, Paths & Patios
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PIANO
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CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
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Please Call Mob: 0755 000 2242
Tel: 0177 770 2779
“The bitterness of poor quality service lingers long after the sweetness of price is forgotten”
RANSKILL
FELLOWSHIP
@ THE
BOWLS CLUB
SUNDAYS
3 – 5pm
Lynn
07932646477
Graham
07741418464
Entry to exams or
just play for pleasure.
All styles from classical to
pop. Beginners welcome.
Lessons for all ages.
Telephone 01777 818710
(Ranskill)
THE WINEAU
Sparkling Gold – champagne
For celebrations, champagne remains the favourite choice because of its prestigious image but
sparkling wines produced in other regions have improved dramatically in recent times and they
present a pleasant and less expensive option. The main one of these is cava from Spain, of which
more at a later date.
The Champagne region is in northeast France where they use three grapes to make the champagne,
of which two are, surprisingly, red. These are Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, while the white one is
Chardonnay. For many producers, the stuff in the bottle is a blend of all three grapes in varying
proportions but those called Blanc de Blancs, literally white wine from white (green) grapes, are
made from Chardonnay only, while Blancs de Noirs are made from one or both of the red (black)
grapes.
White wine can be made from the pulp of red grapes but red or rosé wine can only be made from red
grapes because it's the contact with the dark skins that imparts the colour to the wine during
fermentation. For champagne, it is important that the black skins do not make contact as it is a
white wine. For rosé or pink champagne, the colour usually comes from adding a small proportion of
red wine to the blend or, less frequently, allowing nominal contact with the dark skins during
fermentation.
Initially, champagne is made like any white wine but it is then mixed with wines produced and stored
from an earlier year. This is to maintain the consistency of the blend (or cuveé) on which champagne
houses rely to create their particular style. The mix of old and new wines is the reason why most
champagnes are non-vintage (NV) and only champagne made with grapes from a single year can be
called vintage champagne. The style of any champagne will depend, primarily, on the grapes used or
their proportions. Most champagnes are about 12.5% ABV (alcohol by volume).
The wine is then bottled in the same extra-strong bottle in which it will eventually be sold. At that
stage a measured extra dose of sugar, wine and special yeast is added before the bottle is capped.
This addition causes the second fermentation inside the bottle and generates carbon dioxide, which
is trapped inside the bottle until it escapes as bubbles when the bottle is opened by you. During
storage, the bottles have to be turned to coax the sediment (or lees) in the bottle towards the cap
and the sediment has eventually to be removed, which is achieved by dipping the bottle in a solution
that freezes the neck and its contents for enough time to take out the frozen plug including the
sediment. The bottle is then topped up with wine and sugar syrup and the special cork inserted. The
amount of sugar added determines the sweetness of the champagne; only a small amount is required
for Brut but a bit more is needed as the style changes to Sec (dry) and then to Demi-Sec (mediumdry). So many choices - and so many prices! If you choose a cheap bottle made by a producer you've
not heard of, you may be lucky and it may be great but chances are, it will be more astringent than
you had hoped for. If you step up to one of the better known brands, such as Moët et Chandon,
Laurent Perrier, Taittinger, Mumm, Perrier Jouet or Pol Roger, to name but a few, you can expect
better quality but it's subjective as to whether you feel it's worth paying the extra. And then
there are the prestige houses, such as Krug and Bollinger, plus the de-luxe cuvées of these houses
and some of the other producers, like Roederer Cristal and Dom Pérignon from Moët. Nice stuff if
you can afford it!
Glug.
Regency Building Contractors
We Are A Local Company
For all your Building Requirements Large or Small
Extensions, Loft Conversions, Roofing, and New Builds
Fitted Kitchens. UPVC Windows and Doors
Conservatories. Fascia Boards and Soffits.
Plans Drawn and Planning Permission Sought
Call us Today for a Free Quotation
01777-818-510 or Mobile 07917736127
Scrooby Village Hall
The hall is now available for
business meetings and
parties.
• Fully equipped kitchen with
crockery for up to 70 people.
• Audio-visual equipment,
screen and projector.
Bassetlaw District Council
Councillor Surgeries
Scrooby Village Hall
11.00am - 11.45am March 21st
To contact your local councillor:
Councillor Barry A Bowles 01909 732121
• French doors from hall
opening onto attractive patio
and village green.
• Competitive rates.
• Disabled access and toilet.
Ring Izzy to book on
01302 719811
PROFESSIONAL
BUSINESS CARDS
Made to Order
Logos can be included
Printed either in colour
or black and white on
any type of colour of
card
100 for £15
200 for £25
MISSING SOMETHING?
See it in colour on our website at
The-star.org.uk
What’s
Cooking?
With Joy
Tudberry
Chocolate Courgette Loaf – Gluten Free
6oz Sunflower spread
7oz golden caster sugar
3 eggs beaten
7oz gluten free plain flour
1¾ oz ground almonds
1 level tsp gluten free baking powder
7oz courgette, grated
Pinch of salt
3½oz 70% cocoa Chocolate (melted over
Pan of simmering water)
Cream together spread and sugar, add eggs
and 2 tablespoons of the flour and mix well.
Sift in remaining flour and add almonds and
Courgettes.
Fold all together thoroughly, then fold in the
Chocolate.
Put mixture into a lined 2lb loaf tin
Bake 350°F 180°C Mark 4 about 1 hour or
until skewer comes out clean.
Cool in tin for 15mins before turning out to
cool completely.
NB Cake works equally well using ordinary SR
flour.
MARCH COFFEE QUIZ
The topic this month is WHO SAID? Match
the quotes with the list of people below:
1. Freedom is not worth having if it does not
include the freedom to make mistakes
2. If I had asked people what they wanted
they would have said faster horses
3. We build too many walls and not enough
bridges
4. A large income is the best recipe for
happiness I ever heard of.
5. I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look
down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.
6. A man may die, nations may rise and fall,
but an idea lives on.
7. I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I
was six. Mother took me to see him in a
department store and he asked me for my
autograph.
8. I am a marvellous housekeeper. Every
time I leave a man, I keep his house.
9. In politics, if you want anything said, ask a
man, if you want anything done, ask a
woman.
10. Few men have virtue to withstand the
highest bidder.
Choose from:
Shirley Temple; John F Kennedy; Zsa Zsa
Gabor; Mahatma Ghandi; Issac Newton;
Margaret Thatcher; George Washington; Jane
Austen; Winston S Churchill; Henry Ford.
Answers in April issue
The secrets of the Nightjar revealed
The call of the cuckoo heralds the
summer.
But the cuckoo is
accompanied by another more
mysterious bird migrant – the nightjar.
How much is known about both these
curious birds will be the subject of a talk
taking place at the next meeting of the
Retford Group of the Nottinghamshire
Wildlife Trust (NWT) on Thursday
evening 12th March.
We know that cuckoos breed by laying
their eggs, one at a time, in other bird
species’ nests, leaving the poor
unsuspecting parents the job of raising
their huge chicks ! But where do they go
after their brief stay here? Andy Lowe,
NWT Western Conservation Officer, will
be talking about how we are discovering
more about where cuckoos go using
tagging and GPS technology.
Andy will also cover what has been
learnt about nightjars through a special
two year project taking place on our
doorstep in Sherwood Forest. The
nocturnal nightjar, with its small bill but
huge gape used to catch night flying
moths, breeds in Sherwood, but little is
known about its private life. The project
is finding out more.
And to spread the good word NWT
Sherwood Education and Community
Officer Ed Tripp will be talking about how
the project aims to raise awareness of
nightjars and their habitats through fun
and interactive education sessions for 7
to 18 year olds, concentrating on the
exciting new ways of getting children
interested in nature through real science
and technology.
The talk starts at 7.30pm at the Goodwin
Hall, Chancery Lane, Retford DN22
6DG. Entry is open to everyone, no
booking is required, and costs £2 per
person, which includes light
refreshments. A raffle for Group funds
will also be available.
The Retford Group of Nottinghamshire
Wildlife Trust meets every second
Thursday evening of the month in the
winter. Please contact Jan Williamson
janwilliamson5@icloud.com.
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Sparkle
into your
business
By advertising in
The STAR
Let the STAR put a
SMILE
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business by reaching
more than 1,000 homes
EVERY MONTH.
You can advertise
in the STAR for as little as £3 a month.
So let US promote YOUR business.
Contact copy4star@yahoo.co.uk for more details
Oh what a very clever Jury
In a criminal justice system
based on 12 individuals not smart
enough to get out of jury duty, here
is a jury to be proud of:
A defendant was on trial for
murder. There was strong evidence
indicating guilt, but there was no
corpse. In the defence’s closing
statement, the lawyer, knowing that
his client would probably be
convicted, resorted to a trick.
“Ladies and Gentleman of the
jury, I have a surprise for you all,” the
lawyer said as he looked at this
watch. “Within one minute, the
person presumed dead in this case
will walk into this courtroom.” He
looked toward the courtroom door.
The
jurors,
somewhat
stunned, all looked on eagerly.
A minute passed. Nothing
happened. Finally, the lawyer said,
“Actually, I made up the previous
statement. But you all looked on
with anticipation. I, therefore, put it
to you that you have a reasonable
doubt in this case as to whether
anyone was killed, and I insist that
you return a verdict of not guilty.”
The jury retired to deliberate
but when they returned they
pronounced a verdict of guilty.
“But how” inquired the lawyer.
“You must have had some doubt; I
saw all of you stare at the door.”
The jury foreman replied:
“Yes, we did look, but your client
didn’t.”
THE REUNION LUNCH
A group of chaps, all aged 40, discussed where they should meet for a
reunion lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at Wetherspoons
in Uxbridge because the waitresses had big breasts and wore mini-skirts.
Ten years later, at age 50, the friends once again discussed where they
should meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at
Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because the food and service was good and the
beer selection was excellent.
Ten years later, at age 60, the friends once again discussed where they
should meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at
Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because there was plenty of parking, they could
dine in peace and quiet and it was good value for money.
Ten years later, at age 70, the friends once again discussed where they
should meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at
Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because the restaurant was wheelchair
accessible and had a toilet for the disabled.
Ten years later, at age 80, the friends once again discussed where they
should meet for lunch. Finally it was agreed that they would meet at
Wetherspoons in Uxbridge because they’d never been there before.
THE CAKE LOVER’S WEEK
On Mondays I refuse to budge
Unless the cake is Chocolate Fudge
Tuesdays I will take the plunge
With a slice of Coffee Sponge
Wednesdays when I have a break
It’s feet up with some Carrot Cake
On Thursdays if I start to fizzle
I perk up with Lemon Drizzle
Fridays I insist I’m fed
On Fruit Cake or Banana Bread
Saturdays I often languish
For a nice Victoria Sandwich
And Sundays? Well, it has to be
Homemade Scones for Afternoon tea.
Seen on a postcard
Please
mention The STAR
when replying to
adverts.
To advertise in
The STAR
please contact
copy4star@yahoo.co.uk
Answers to
February Quiz:
1)Divine 2) Organ
3) King 4) Function
5) Turkey 6) Nerve
7) Morgan 8) Spam
9)Plane 10) Christmas
11) Quiver 12) Arch
13)Desert 14) Boxer
15) Party 16) Yarn
17) Precious 18) Hull
19) May 20) Pound
Thanks to
the cosy
knitters
To all of the tea cosy knitters of
Ranskill and Torworth. What a
variety of designs and colours
have come flooding into the
Bassetlaw Hospice Tea Bar in
the past few weeks. They are
selling like hot cakes, so if you
have enough wool and energy
ladies, carry on knitting !
Many thanks to you all.
Vaneeta 01777 818710
vaneetakilby@yahoo.co.uk
In Saint Barnabas’
Church, Ranskill
THURSDAY CLUB
March 19th
12.30 – 2.30pm
All Welcome
Come Hungry
For transport on the
day ring Joy 01777
818419
In St Barnabas’
Church, Ranskill
COFFEE MORNING
Supporting
MARIE CURIE
CANCER NURSES
Saturday March 7th
10am – 12 noon
Cakes and offers of
help very welcome !
Joy Tudberry 818419
Church Notices
Message from Kate
Services in March
The reluctant preacher.
Sunday 1st
Blyth
11.00 am HC CW
Ranskill 9.30 am All Age Worship
Scrooby 9.30 am CW HC
Sunday 8th
Blyth
8.00 am BCP HC
Blyth
11.00 am HC CW
Ranskill 9.30 am HC CW
Sunday 15th
Blyth
11.00 am CW HC
Ranskill 9.30 am Parade Service –
Mothering Sunday
Scrooby 9.30 am CW MP
Sunday 22nd
Blyth
8.00 am BCP HC
Blyth
11.00 am All Age Worship
Ranskill
9.30 am CW HC
th
Sunday 29
Ranskill
9.30 am CW HC (United Service
with the Archdeacon of Newark)
th
Monday 30
Blyth
7pm Holy Week Meditation
st
Tuesday 31
Scrooby 7pm Holy Week Meditation
Key:
BCP
Book of Common Prayer
CW
Common Worship
FW
Family Worship
HC
Holy Communion
MP
Morning Prayer
It’s Saturday night, other people, normal people, are out at the
pictures or in, eating won tons and crispy duck and watching TV,
moaning about how there’s never anything on. I might be doing any
of these things but my mind is somewhere else. Saturday night
inevitably forces a decision ‘Go and do it now or get up early
tomorrow?’ Every week I start with the best of intentions, to work on
it and read all week and then to write it early and edit it. I never do. I
could tell you it’s because I have 3 churches and a job in a Further
Education college, I could tell you it’s because I’m busy, and I am,
who isn’t? But really, it’s because preaching terrifies me. Sweaty
palmed, dry mouth, a butterflies in the tummy sort of fear. I’m an
extreme extrovert, I relish being ‘up front’. I’m from an evangelical
background, weaned on a diet of 30 minutes biblical exegesis. I
have 2 degrees in theology, I know my stuff. I am articulate,
creative and good at story telling. I love the sound of my own voice.
I have all the components of someone who should love to preach,
but I confess I don’t. My name on the rota has the ability to bring
me out in a rash. This is a problem for a vicar. And so yet again I
find myself in the ‘Early morning sermon club’ (it has its own twitter
hashtag and everything, join us we are a friendly bunch). Looking at
the readings bleary eyed and promising next week I won’t do this. I
pray, I write, I desperately try to come up with a tenuous story to
illustrate my main points. I discard the idea of 3 points all starting
with the letter ‘Q’. I get into the car and drive to church. I preach, it’s
ok, God is there (as He always is) and something stirs. On the drive
back I consider what it is that stops me from enjoying this essential
part of my ministry, what makes me so reluctant? What, despite my
vow at my ordination, makes me so fearful of ‘preaching the gospel
afresh to every generation’? I think, I reflect and it hits me. It’s
because despite the occasional lack of feedback, discussion or
debate from some my congregations, I believe that preaching
matters and I’m frightened of getting it dreadfully wrong. What if I
preach heresy? Or make a theological gaffe? Worse still, what if I
bore them? I get so nervous and so fearful because it’s important to
me. For most of the congregation it might be the only teaching they
get. For our visitors and weddings couples it might be the first bit of
teaching they have heard. And for me it means making myself
vulnerable to what others and to what God might say. So next
Saturday night, as always, I’ll have that last minute panic. Next
Sunday morning, as the moment gets closer and the psalm is read,
palms will sweat and the butterflies will stir. With a dry mouth I’ll
stand to speak, with a sure and certain hope that it’s His words that
find their way out.
Kate
Useful Contacts
Yours
Kate
x
Rev Kate Bottley 01909 591857
Church Wardens—Ranskill
Vicar of Blyth, Scrooby
and01777
Ranskill
and Chaplain to North
David Hill
818072
Notts College
David Stacey 01777 818303
Church Wardens—Scrooby
There is room for
aboutAshworth
320 words
in 11818322
pt.
Gordon
01777
Maurice Clapham 01302 710078
What’s happening at St. Barnabas’ Church
Barney’s Toddlers
Every Monday 9.30—11.30 am
(no meeting on Bank Holidays)
st
Sunday 1 March
Prayer group meeting 6pm
rd
Tuesday 3 March
Singing group 7pm – all welcome
th
Saturday 7 March
Marie Curie coffee morning 10.30am – 12 noon
th
Wednesday 11 March
Mothers Union 7pm – Lady Day Service
th
Thursday 12 March
Messy Church 3.45pm – 6pm
th
Friday 13 March
Youth Club 7 – 8.30pm (Film night)
th
Tuesday 17 March
Singing group 7pm – all welcome
th
Thursday 19 March
Thursday Club 12.30 – 2.30pm
In the Garden with Sue Staveley
Innnn
Spring should hopefully start in earnest this month.
March is known to be windy, but there is an old rhyme about March winds and
April showers bring forth May flowers. But the frost may still catch you out so take care. In March the
days get longer and as the ground starts to warm the weeds start to grow. You need to keep on top of
them as letting them grow now will make hard work for some weeks to come. Daffodils and Crocuses are
among the earliest spring flowers and if you have planted several varieties you can have flowers in bloom
for several weeks.
Now is the time to springclean the garden, fork over the soil in borders, weed, mulch and divide up
overcrowded perennials. Also divide snowdrops after the flowers are over but before they leaves die
down. Unlike most spring bulbs they have a very short summer and do not like drying out so they move
best whilst still growing. Tidy the rock garden, sow wildflowers and hardy annuals, plant gladiolus corms
and lily bulbs. Hardy annuals are ideal for anyone with a garden to fill on a budget and will give flowers in
the summer for a long time. Deal with wormcasts and molehills on the lawns, redefine edges and lay turf
before the end of the month, and if the weather really warms up make the first cut on the lawn. If it is very
long do it in two cuts. Renovate overgrown climbers, tidy up patio roses, and plant pot grown shrubs
climbers and roses.
For the vegetable garden, prepare the soil and sow lettuce, rocket, broad beans, turnips, leeks, onions and
early varieties of carrots and peas. Harden off and protect early vegetables by covering them with
horticultural fleece. Harvest sprouting broccoli. You can also plant early vegetables in pots. You can clean
the fruit garden, weeding and mulching everywhere. Plant rhubarb and strawberries. As the weather has
been so cold if you have not done so you can prune apple and pear trees before the first buds appear.
Don’t forget, if there is another cold snap, to cover vulnerable plants and heat a frost free greenhouse.
Watch out for slugs and snails under glass. As you can see this is not a month to rest. There is a lot to be
done, getting everything ready for the coming season and if you do rest it may catch you out!
A Few Doctor Jokes to cheer us all up
Long and Short of the problem
Adam, an elderly man was seated in the doctor’s waiting room. When we was called in to see the Dr, Adam slowly got
up, and, grasping his cane hunching over, slowly made his way into the examining room. After only a few minutes,
Adam emerged from the room, walking completely upright.
Paul, another patient who had watched him hobble into the room all hunched over, stared in amazement, “That must be
a miracle Dr in there.” He exclaimed. “What treatment did he give you? What’s his secret?”
Adam stared at Paul and said, “Well the Dr looked me up and down, analysed the situation, and gave me a cane that
was four inches longer than the one I had been using”.
Struck down
Ronan kept going to the ophthalmic Dr because his eye hurt and the Dr finally discovered his problem; he told him
“Your eye hurts when you drink tea, so you can’t drink tea”.
Ronan stuttered, “But, I love tea.”
The Dr replied, “Well ok, as long as you take the spoon out”.
Time cures
“Doctor Mayo”, John says, “Whenever I get up after sleep, I feel dizzy for half an hour, then I’m all right.” “Then wait for
half an hour before getting up”. Replies Doctor Mayo conclusively.
Home or Away?
A famous surgeon went on safari in Africa. When he came back, his colleagues asked him how it had been. “Oh it was
very disappointing” he said “I didn’t kill a thing. I’d have been better off staying here in the hospital”.
5) Father or Son?
Iain speaks frantically into the phone, “My wife is pregnant, and her contractions are only two minutes apart”.
“Is this her first child?” the Dr queries,
“No, you idiot” Iain shouts “this is her husband”.
Come along to our
All Age service
On the first Sunday of every month
At St Barnabas Church, Ranskill
Arrive between 9.30am - 10am for breakfast and activities
From 10am to 10.30am a short service suitable for all ages will take place
The next service will be on Sunday 1st March
All are welcome. Hope to see you there!
******
Barney’s Messy Church
is on Thursday 12th March 2015
3.45pm at St Barnabas Church, Ranskill
 3.45pm – 4pm: Arrive for welcome refreshments
 4pm – 5pm: Take part in a range of activities aimed at Primary
School age children and their accompanying adult
 5pm – 5.15pm: Join in with worship for everyone, which
includes songs, a story and prayer
 5.15pm – 5.45pm: Sit down together for a family meal
There is no formal charge for Messy Church, but we welcome donations
as we rely on these to cover the cost of materials and food.
We look forward to seeing you there!
******
Join us for…
On Friday 13th March
7pm – 8.30pm at Ranskill Church
All 11 – 16 year olds welcome!
Free entry
Snacks and drinks available to buy
DRAFT MINUTES OF SCROOBY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING Monday 9 February 2015
SCROOBY VILLAGE HALL
PRESENT: Chair Ed Marshall, Christine Bailey, Tony Smith (Treasurer), Matt Pollard, Elaine
Gargett, Heidi Robbins, Julie Dunstan, Barry Bowles (District Councillor), Sheila Firth (Clerk).
Apologies : Mark Firth, James Arrowsmith.
Minutes of the Last Meeting: Minutes agreed, proposed by Elaine Gargett, seconded by Christine
Bailey.
Matters Arising: There were none.
Correspondence: NALC invoice received and passed to the Treasurer. An invitation to a meeting
of the North Notts Neighbourhood Planning Team was passed to James Arrowsmith. Form for the
Spring Clean litter picking event passed to Heidi Robbins and Elaine Gargett for completion and
submission.
District Councillor's Report: District Councillor Bowles reported there were no matters of concern
to Scrooby.
Finance Report: The Treasurer presented his report, which showed cheques to be paid out totalling
£583.95.A possible change of insurance provider for the Village Hall from May was discussed,
treasurer would check quotations and recommend as appropriate. He will require an updated list
and plan of Scrooby Village assets, Chair and Cllr Arrowsmith to prepare. The end of year external
audit was discussed. Scrooby PC has an annual turnover of less than £25,000.00 and therefore is
not required to hold an external audit, but the Treasurer’s report and other accounts need to be
published on the Scrooby website along with minutes of meetings and any other accounts. Mrs P.
Cawley has agreed to undertake the internal audit. The precept for 2015/2016 was discussed, and
new figures supplied. Treasurer agreed to send out amended figures for signing off by Monday 16
February. It was agreed that costs of new and replacement play equipment should come out of the
reserve funds. The STAR annual donation of £185.00 will shortly be due.
Police Report: The police report showed one dwelling burglary in Scrooby during January 2015
Planning & Village Plan: The Chair had been contacted about a tree being felled in the village
conservation area, investigation showed it to be a non-native pine tree and the felling had planning
consent. The Clerk to contact BDC Planning Dept. and enquire why we no longer receive the green
letter from them when planning has been approved.
Play Area: Heidi Robbins provided the two quotes for new and replacement play equipment for the
play area. One from Playdales for £2,755.00 and one from Sutcliffe Play for £2,628.00. It was
decided to use Sutcliffe Play to provide the equipment. Some old damaged equipment will be have
to be removed before installation of the new equipment.
Village Hall: The annual fire inspection needs to be arranged.
The request to use the Village Hall as a polling station for the May election was approved.
The porch containing the toilet and kitchen area of the Village Hall is in need of interior repainting,
the Chair to procure a painter.
Interest had been shown with regard to reinstating the village cinema, the Chair to speak to Graham
Robbins about this.
Village Environment & Railway Crossing: The Treasurer asked if we had a Neighbourhood
Development Plan. The Chair to discuss the same with James Arrowsmith.
Pilgrim Fathers Visitors Centre and Mayflower 400: The Chair has attended several meetings in
respect of the Mayflower 400 events planned for 2020, including one in Greenwich on 29 January
2015, and he gave a report on discussions held at that meeting. There are more meetings to be
held in this regard during 2015. Points raised at Greenwich included a UK-wide Mayflower trail, an
education effort for schools, and celebrations on a national and local community level. The Chair is
to contact the organisers with any suggestions for incorporation into their plans for events. The
Chair will circulate his notes to the PC. District Councillor Bowles confirmed that the District Council
will support the effort to move the focus locally away from Retford with regard to the Pilgrim Heritage
Centre, he is still awaiting a full report in this regard. He expressed a need for new members for the
Pilgrim Fathers Origins Society, to bring in fresh ideas and be a presence at shows and events, and
to raise awareness of the Pilgrim Fathers and interest in the subject. It was agreed he would place
an advert in the STAR to raise new interest.
Any Other Business: A request had been received for the dates of future Parish Council meetings
to the end of 2015. These will be: 9 March; 13 April; 11 May; 8 June; 13 July; 14 September; 12
October & 9 November 2015.
Meeting closed at 9.00 pm
Next meeting Monday 9 March 2015, 7.30 pm, Scrooby Village Hall
Ranskill Floral Planter Appeal 2015
Last summer, Ranskill Parish Council introduced planters as the floral presentation
in the village instead of hanging baskets, which had been popular but a bit
impractical. The change was well received and the planters were generously
sponsored by residents, local businesses and organisations. We are continuing the
tradition for summer 2015 with the existing eight planters located on the Great
North Road, Mattersey Road and Blyth Road and on some of the community grassed
areas in the village, and as before, our trusty volunteers will install and maintain
these planters. We should also like to buy more planters for additional sites in the
village depending upon how much we can raise.
Previously, the offers from sponsors have been generous and much appreciated and
for the floral display in 2015, we hope that this tradition will continue. If you would
like to help with sponsorship as a business, organisation, or as an individual, or in
memory of a loved one, the Parish Council would be grateful if you would complete
the form below. This year, there is no fixed amount and sponsors are being asked
to contribute an amount of their choosing although we hope that you will give
generously.
FLORAL PLANTERS 2015
Name................................................................
Address.............................................................
......................................................................
In Memory of......................................................
I enclose a cheque for ………… made payable to Ranskill Parish Council.
Please forward to:
The Clerk, Ranskill Parish Council, 9 Stonehill Close, Ranskill, Retford DN22 8NG.
THANK YOU IN ANTICIPATION FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Ranskill Parish Council Newsletter
th
(Including Draft Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 17 February 2015)
CRIME REPORT & POLICE NEWS
st
During the month to 31 January 2015, there were three reported crimes in Ranskill, which were two thefts from motor
vehicles and one incident of criminal damage to a motor vehicle. Overall, there were 22 reported crimes across the beat
area which compared with seven crimes reported in December 2014 and 23 reported crimes during January last year.
There were six reports of ASB in Ranskill in January, which appeared high but none was serious.
VACANCY FOR A RANSKILL PARISH COUNCILLOR
Ms Michelle Field had expressed her wish to become a Councillor and it was resolved unanimously to co-opt her to the
vacant position of Councillor for the remainder of the current term.
HIGHWAYS
A start date for the installation of the waiting restrictions lining at the traffic lights junction was still awaited. The surface
drainage gulley near the Church on Great North Road had been reported and Notts CC had carried a drainage
investigation at that point. We were awaiting a date for installation of the interactive speed sign on Mattersey Road and
the installation of the bend warning sign at the Mattersey Road entrance to the village was expected to be installed soon.
On Mattersey Road at the Folly Nook end, the grassed areas directly adjacent to private property boundaries were to be
tidied up in order to free up more of the public footpath space.
FINANCE
st
Bank Balances as at 31 January 2015: Current Account £100, Reserve Account £12,040.38. The following payments
were approved for January/February 2015:
1723
1724
1725
1726
County Supplies
T M Stables
HMRC
John D McGill
Stationery*
Clerk’s Salary & Expenses
PAYE
Litter picking
£321.24
£332.15
£73.80
£36.00
*The stationery included 20 boxes of copier paper which had previously been agreed as a donation to The Star.
A quote had been obtained from North Notts Landscapes for mowing and hedge cutting in 2015 and prices had
increased by about 5% overall. It was agreed to extend the contract with NNL for 2015 and not go out to tender.
PURCHASE OF GARAGE SITE ON STATION AVENUE
Completion had taken place and concluding documentation was awaited from solicitors. The land had been added to the
Council’s Asset Register with a value of £12,000.
PLANNING
th
There were no new planning applications received up to 17 February 2015.
AMENITIES and FACILITIES
The flooding at the entrance to Birch Wood from Mattersey Road had been reported to Notts CC and their response was
awaited. An inspection report had revealed links on the four-bay swing unit in the children’s playground required
replacement and it was agreed to purchase new chains and seats at a cost of £360.00 and to fit them using our own
labour. Various measures were being taken to remove excessive litter in the village.
WHOLE COUNCIL ELECTIONS
Bassetlaw DC was consulting on the introduction of Whole Council Elections as early as May 2015, when Ranskill
Parish Council elections were scheduled to take place. It was agreed to support this measure.
PROPOSED PUBLIC SPACES PROTECTION ORDER – DOG CONTROL
Bassetlaw DC had proposed a Public Spaces Protection Order whereby they would extend the areas of land covered by
a requirement to clean up after a dog, allow further controls to keep dogs on leads, which would include Ranskill &
Torworth Cemetery, and would exclude dogs from all fenced children’s play areas, which might include the children’s
playground and playing field adjacent Mattersey Road. These measures were under consideration.
NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANNING
Following the withdrawal of the Site Allocations Consultation document, BDC had encouraged rural areas to bring
forward neighbourhood plans to assist in the planning process. Production of any plan would involve all of the
community and there were benefits, not least developers having to take account of a plan. Further enquiries were to be
made and serious consideration would be given to a plan for Ranskill. If appropriate, more information will be given out
at a later date.
th
RANSKILL PARISH COUNCIL MEETING – 17 MARCH 2015
th
The next Parish Council Meeting will be held at St Barnabas Church on Tuesday 17 March at 7.30 pm.
Members of the public and press are welcome to attend.
Parish Clerk: Terry Stables 01777 816648 or parishcouncil@ranskill.org.uk
Torworth Parish Council
February 2014
(including Draft Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 3rd February)
CRIME
There was no police representative present at the meeting. A report was sent and there
were no reported crimes in Torworth for the month of January.
FINANCE
RESOLVED that the following cheques be passed for payment:
Scrooby and Ranskill PCC – Hire of Room
£ 9.00
R Hyland – Clerks Salary Jan
£ 95.70
HMRC – PAYE Jan
£ 24.00
R Hyland – Clerks Salary Feb
£ 95.90
HMRC – PAYE Feb
£ 23.80
NALC—Annual Subscription
£ 65.70
Ranskill and Torworth Burial Committee
£126.00
L Middlebrook
£ 30.00
Ranskill and Torworth Festival Committee
£200.00
CHANGING BANKS
The option of changing banks was discussed and it was decided to keep things as they
are currently until after the election in May as there may be a change in Councillors.
BUDGET
The clerk presented the councillors with a copy of the budget for 2015/16.
PRECEPT
The clerk presented the Councillors with 4 options regarding the precept, with grants
being cut even further this year and costs increasing the council agreed once again to
make a contribution from the reserves. This will still result in an increase in Parish
Council Tax but the Parish Council has done what it can to keep this to a minimum.
CLERKS PAY INCREASE
The Chair put forward that the Clerk has not received a pay increase since taking up the
post in November 2012, and suggested that an incremental pay increase should be received from April this year. This was agreed in principal and the exact amount would be
agreed at the next meeting.
PLAYFIELD COMMITTEE
The playfield committee have agreed to run the same stalls as last year for the scarecrow festival, and are also looking to put on an Easter event again this year for all the
children in the village.
SPEEDWATCH
Torworth Pc are wanting to re-start Speedwatch in the village and are currently looking
for volunteers. If you could spare an hour of your time to help out with this please contact us on the details below.
Next Parish Council Meeting is on Tuesday 3rd March 2015 at 7.00 p.m.
at St Barnabas Church, Ranskill. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
Clerk: Rachel Hyland — 07595 932307
Email: parishcouncil@torworth.org.uk
ADVERTISE WITH
THE STAR
The STAR reaches all residents of Scrooby, Torworth and Ranskill plus
outlets in Blyth, Mattersey and Barnby Moor
Advertising Rates:
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Please cut along the dotted line below and post the slip, along with details of
your advert to: The STAR, 15 Whitton Close, Ranskill, RETFORD, DN22 8PD or
send an email to: copy4star@yahoo.co.uk
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Business Name (if applicable): .……………………………………..….
Contact Name: …………………………………………………………..
Address: ………………………………….………………….……………
……………………………………………………………………………...
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advance by the 16th of the month. Cheque enclosed for £............
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groups and organisations.
We can produce posters,
flyers, booklets etc. to your
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For further details,
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Tick if a receipt is required
Retford & Gainsborough Garden Centre
Bar Road, Saundby, Retford, Notts
DN22 9EU
Tel 01427
848784
* Spring bulbs, flowers, shrubs, beautiful Camellias,
Rhododendrons, Azaleas & much more arriving weekly.
* Freshly stocked seed potatoes and onion sets, many varieties.
* Pansies, Polyanthus, snowdrops, tulips and daffodils plants
* Spring hanging baskets available now or made to order.
*
Large range of Seeds for spring and summer flowers, herbs & “Grow your own”
Vegetables.
*
Lawn fertilizers, lawn seed, composts, chemicals, feeds & garden equipment
*
Stone circles, slabs, loose & bagged gravels, garden ornaments, pots & tubs
*
*
Clothing, Giftware, cards, china, candles, garden furniture, benches & much more!
Wild Bird Care, from bird baths & houses to feeders, Seeds, Nuts and Fat Balls.
Citrus Cafe
Within Retford & Gainsborough Garden Centre
Open daily
9.30am
to 4.00pm
Start your day with our freshly cooked
7 or 10 piece breakfast served till 11.30am
Hot dinners are available from 12 noon, with daily specials ranging from steak pie,
luxury fishcakes, lasagne, whole tail scampi, quiche, chicken breast strips;
all served with our own hand cut chips, new potatoes or jacket with peas or salad.
Mid-week special
Try our very popular freshly battered Haddock, delivered fresh from Grimsby every
Wednesday & Thursday, served with our own hand cut chipped local potatoes & peas.
All day lighter options include baked jacket potatoes, quiche,
freshly made panini, toasties, sandwiches, home-made
soups and salads, all prepared fresh to order.
Bean to cup coffees, speciality teas, hot chocolate, Cheese,
Cherry & Fruit Scones, served plain or with clotted or double
cream, Tea Cakes, Bakewells, Custards, Slices & Cakes.
Roast Dinners with Yorkshire Pudding, cooked every weekend
from 12noon to 2.30pm, Saturdays & Sundays
* * * Book now to reserve a table – Telephone 01427 848784 * * *