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The Morley Mirror Spring 2008 No.2
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Morley in Shock at Death of Sam Marshall
Samuel Charles Marshall passed away at his home in Brick Kiln Lane on Tuesday February 19th. 2008, aged 89. A very brief statement, but it would be difficult to summarise Sam’s life in Morley in even a few pages. Probably the most active man ever in the affairs of the village, Sam will be sorely missed. He was a Morley Parish Councillor, a Borough Councillor, a member of the Saint Matthew’s Parochial Church Council and much more for most of his time in the village. It was, perhaps, a small measure of Sam’s standing that news of his death spread like a bush fire through the village.
Sam was remembered during a minute’s silence at the Parish Council meeting after which Chairman John Queenborough paid the following tribute
“I’m sure that everyone was shocked and saddened to hear that Sam had passed away on Tuesday and our thoughts are with his wife, May, and their two daughters at this difficult time.
The news came as a bombshell to me, because having known him for a great many years, particularly as a colleague on the Parish Council for some thirty years, I believed that he was eternal. How could this happen when, a few days earlier, he was, as usual, putting forward forthright views on safety measures for the Main Road at a public meeting in the school ?
I won’t dwell on Sam’s achievements over the years as that will be done in another place, I’m sure, but what I would like to put on record, something that stands out for everyone to see, is his total commitment to keeping Morley in a time capsule. No Change. Sam wanted the village children to be able to enjoy the wide open spaces and breath unpolluted air and I believe that he has left us with his mission accomplished. I think this is Sam’s legacy to the people of Morley and I’m sure that he would like the Parish Council of today to further this aim.”
On Friday February 29th, Sam was buried in the Churchyard following a moving service in the church, with local dignitaries, village residents, friends and relatives present to say their last farewell.
We add our condolences to the very many already received by May.
Morley will never seem the same again.
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Church Lane Man’s Corbett Challenge. John Green
When I completed the Munros and Tops in 1988, I never wanted to see a Scottish hill again! But having realised that in semi retirement, I would now have more time to spend pursuing my mountaineering, but less money to spend, it seemed a good idea to look again at what was available just north of the border. There are many hill “lists” of varying degrees of difficulty. Most are too long and some rather pointless, but the Corbetts seemed to fit the bill. There are 220 in all, against 284 Munros. Having said this, the Corbetts have been much more difficult to climb, it being unusual to do more than two a day and one is normal. The Munros are more fulfilling as you seem to do some great traverses that are just not possible with the Corbetts. Some of you must be wondering what a Corbett and Munro is. Munros are hills defined by the Scottish Mountaineering Club as selected points above 3000 feet (914mtrs) in the Scottish Highlands. Corbetts are hills above 2500 feet (762 mtrs) but less than 3000 feet, having a drop of 500 feet all round. This gives a list that is practical to do and covers new area’s that Munros don’t.
For anyone living south of the border, the main challenge is the cost and logistics of getting to the base of the mountain, and then climbing it if possible, in reasonable conditions. Most mountaineers are not too bothered about a bit of snow or rain, but would not set off if the rain was torrential, not unusual in the western highlands! This all makes for an interesting set of holidays in Scotland. I am now at number 152 and have set myself the target of finishing by the time I am 65. My last trip was January 26th to February 2nd . The conditions in the Cairngorms were “interesting”. The two peaks I climbed from the ski area known as the Lecht, were in 50 mph winds with blizzard conditions! The A9 road was closed due to snow, when I finally got down, and I had to stay an extra night at Avemore Youth Hostel, compensated for by the excellent pint of “Stag” ale brewed in the area. There is no point in asking why I do this, if you need to ask you can never understand. Standing on some remote hill, miles from civilisation, on a lovely sunny day with golden eagles in the blue sky above, cannot be bought and is impossible to copy. So I continue, if anyone would like to join me they would be more than welcome, but don’t come with new boots
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It Beggars Belief
After a speaking engagement, Mrs Thatcher left the hall by means of a long flight of steps, at the bottom of which she perceived a beggar. She was about to swish past when out of the corner of her eye she read the placard around the beggar’s neck. It read “Falklands Veteran”. Immediately she summoned her aide to produce a fiver which she presented to the beggar.
“Muchos Gracias, Senora” said the beggar.
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Around the Hamlets
The Moor
Edie Wiseman, (Morley's oldest "born and bred" resident) is recovering well after breaking her leg in a fall at home. Edie recently transferred from the DRI to Babbington Hospital, where she is being well looked after and enjoying their excellent food!
She thanks everyone for their messages, cards and visits and is hoping to be home again soon.
The latest project to rebuild/repair a dry stone wall on Almshouses Lane has been completed. An excellent job has been made of it, with the ivy removed and new coping stones in place. The banking in front of it will be seeded once the weather allows, and in the meantime daffodils are showing through at the foot of the wall.
Several walkers have commented favourably on the snowdrops under hedges and on the Common Land - very spring like.
The Smithy
Andrew Twigge’s efforts on behalf of the Parish Council have finally borne fruit with the restoration of the footpath between The Smithy and Morley Manor.
Wednesday 5th December was a cold but dry night and about 120 guests, including Councillor Eileen Knight, Mayor of Erewash, the Mayoress and ‘Mini Mayor’ (Eileen’s grand-daughter) gathered in Primrose Drive to switch on the lights for Morley’s first Parish Christmas Tree Switch-on event. The children of Morley Primary School Choir sang carols and members of the East Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra provided more entertainment. The children and staff served welcome refreshments
After the ceremony Parishioners were invited to the School as guests of the Youth Club.. It is hoped that the event will grow into a special annual occasion when everyone can meet to enjoy seasonal music and refreshments. The Parish Councillors thank everyone who helped make this occasion a success.
Church Lane
Derbyshire County Council have gone some way to cutting down and removing the dead trees which border the lane, although they were unable to attend to the more dangerous ones as they have high-level cables passing through them. These can only be worked on if a linesman is in attendance and we are told that it is proving difficult to co-ordinate the two groups so that they can carry out the work together.
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Rural Ramblings John Queenborough
Over the past six months I have had the privilege of watching two small rabbits grow up in the paddock into fine, sleek adults, giving a great deal of entertainment with their antics. Our young twin grandaughters named them Bigwig and Hazel, who, as you no doubt know, are the main characters in Watership Down.
Last week Hazel disappeared and a couple of days later I found Bigwig on the field with full-blown myxomatosis. He had massive lumps above his eyes and his eyelids were welded together. Hazel had no doubt suffered the same fate. I didn’t allow his suffering to continue and ended it quickly, which wasn’t very pleasant considering the pleasure they had given us.My next job was to explain to the twins where the rabbits had gone. I invented a story about them having to return to Watership Down.
Squirrels have reached plague proportions this year, looking like a fitted carpet under the bird feeders.I have spent hours devising schemes to keep them off the feeders but with only limited success. They are so cheeky that they refuse to move until I am almost within touching distance of them.
A year or so ago I became quite envious when I started to get reports from the Church Lane Twitching Society about large numbers of gold finches visiting the gardens there. Look as I might I didn’t see one gold finch on my feeders and it was only with reluctance that the Church Lane crowd advised me to put up a special feeder and to fill it with thistle seed. In no time at all the first sightings were noted and within weeks we had quite a flock of gold finches, so many in fact that I had to put up a second thistle seed feeder. More recently we have been visited by a group of bramblings and I bet they haven’t got any of them in Church Lane!
To get my bird distribution maps up to date I would be pleased to receive any sightings of these, and other visiting birds, elsewhere in the village.
When you see Peregrine Falcons, Buzzards and Kingfishers in Brackley Gate, as we do in Church Lane, we’ll allow you to crow, if you’ll pardon the pun. Ed.
Swatting at Home
A wife arrived in the kitchen just as her husband was making a killing swatting flies.
The wife says “What on earth are you doing?”
“I’m swatting flies and I’ve got five already, three males and two females”
The wife, impressed said “How can you tell the difference?”
Hubby replies “Well three were on beer cans and two were on the phone”
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MORLEY EVERGREENS The first fifty years Gill Bailey
The inaugural meeting of the Elderly Folks Welfare committee took place on the 15th January 1958. at Potlocks, Quarry Road, Morley . The members were Mr & Mrs Slack, Mr H Hunt, Miss Topham, Mr.H Garratt, Mr & Mrs W Brown, Mr S Marshall and Mr & Mrs Bladon. Sadly all are now deceased. Sam and May Marshall have been stalwart members of the Evergreens over many years.
The meeting was to “consider ways and means of stimulating an interest in the welfare of the more elderly parishioners”. Representatives were drawn from different areas of the village. Their aim was to not only visit the elderly but if needs be to take off their coats, roll up their sleeves and wash the dishes.
In 1960 it was renamed Morley Old Peoples Welfare Association, later this became Morley Elderly Peoples Association. 0n the 8TH May 1989 the name changed to Morley Evergreens.
There has been many activities over the years, whist drives, coffee mornings, dances, social gatherings and outings to everywhere. The Christmas lunch is the most consistent function mentioned in the minutes. This was held in the Retreat House for many years. The dinner was delivered to poorly members.
Today the premise of the original Committee meeting has slightly changed although I am sure we would still roll up our sleeves if needs be. Last year we went to Trentham Gardens in June and Whitby in August. In December 2007 we had a lovely Christmas lunch at Morley Hayes. An afternoon tea was held at Mrs Comery’s home on Woodside.
Membership has been extended to pensioner friends who live outside the Morley area. This enables us to fill 50 seater bus and keep the association viable. Subscription at the moment is £6. Should you wish to join us, contact Kath Davies on 880719 or Gill Bailey on 882473.. New members will be made very welcome.
Morley Village Youth Club. Becky Pollard
Hi there my name is Becky and I am the voluntary youth leader at Morley Village Youth Club, and have been for the past 8 or 9 years, my how time flies when your having fun???!!!
A little bit of history
There has been a youth club of some shape or form held at the school in Morley for as long as I can remember. As a former student of the School, a long time ago now, I recall attending and a lady called Ruth who was employed by the county council ran it, but, to cut a long story short, the county council removed the youth leader and the funding. Since then the youth club has been run by parents and volunteers. We rely heavily on various grants, generous donations from local bodies and our own fundraising events.
A little bit about me and ‘the others’
I have lived in Morley nearly all my life with a short spell in Horsley Woodhouse, as most of you readers will be aware my dad is John Queenborough but I tend not to mention that in polite society! I have, as previously stated, run the youth club for about eight or nine years. I am voluntary which means I don’t get paid for doing it. I organise different activities each week for the members to take part in if they wish. I currently have a great helper in Jane Owers who is also originally from the village and the school, and who has recently married Thurlow Bone another veteran Morleyite so congratulations to you both! Dawn Lockwood, one of the parents of three current members and one past member, is the secretary of the club and she keeps us ticking over collecting grants from anywhere and everywhere!
The Club
Morley Village Youth Club is open to all those children aged between 8 and 16, who either attend or have attended Morley School, and children who live in the village.
We run every Wednesday night in term time from 7pm – 8:30pm. There are various activities arranged every week these can range from Bingo – Karaoke, Dancercise – arts & crafts. We try to go on at least two trips a year, Last year, thanks to a fund raising event between myself, The east Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra and Morley Hayes, we raised enough money to take the clubbers on a ghost walk around Derby, I don’t know who was more scared, the adult helpers or the kids! And we also managed to go ice skating on the open air ice rink in Derby for our Christmas party.
Acknowledgements and thanks w1th a bit of publicity for
¬ Big, Big thanks go out to Andrew Allsop and his team at Morley Hayes for his continued support and generosity we couldn’t do half of the things we do without you! Cheers Andrew!!
¬ Morley Parish Council for their support and donations
¬ All the parents and carers of the clubbers who have supported us and been roped in on parent rota.
¬ Ed Felix and the team at Derby Ghost Walks for one of the scariest nights or our lives.See you later this year!
¬ Lucy Cartwright of Arabesque Dance Academy for giving up her time to take the odd dance class on a Wednesday night!
¬ The East Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra for two amazing nights of entertainment and fundraising
Any one else I’ve forgotten, thanks. I have now finally fulfilled my duty to write about Youth Club and let everyone know where we are and what we do. If you want any further information about us you can contact either myself; rebecca@rdunne.orangehome.co.uk or Dawn Lockwood; 07799 061177.
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MorleyParish Council Web-page Chrissie Hall
Photographs of Morley
If residents would like to submit their Morley photographs for publication on the PC web-page we will endeavour to use as many as we can of these, changing throughout the year to reflect different seasons, to head up our web page. www.morleyparishcouncil.com
It's a great way for local photographers to get their work 'published'. Please include your consent for your pics to be used in this way, and let us know if you do or don't want to be identified as the photographer.
Submissions to Chrissie_hall@hotmail.com as email attachment please, or by hand to any Parish Councillor.
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Morley Womens’ Institute Beryl Toms President
Morley has a thriving W.I. which meets each month in the village school. Around 35 members take part in a variety of activities including crafts, visits to concerts and places of interest.. We would give a very warm welcome to any ladies who would like to join us. Give it a try and I’m sure you would enjoy our meetings. We are a very friendly, caring group. If you would like further information, or if you have a transport problem, please do not hesitate to ring me on 01332 880107 and I will arrange for someone to help.
Forthcoming events include:-
March 11th at 7-30pm Growing up in Poland.
April 1st at 7-30pm China and Vietnam.
April 29th Afternoon. Visit to the Bluebell Woods at Yoxall.
May 13th at 7-30pm Using Herbs
June 14th. Afternoon. Garden Party at Keepers Cottage.
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Neighbourhood Watch Mike Hickling
Things have been quiet over the last few weeks, with nothing of note to pass on. A timely reminder that as the gardening season gets underway sheds are likely targets - there's an active marketplace for garden tools & ornaments.
If you wish to be included in the e-mail "news" list, contact the co-ordinator, Mike Hickling, at mhickling@supanet.com.
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Something Fishy
A man phones home from the office and tells his wife, “Something has just come up, I have the chance to go fishing for the week. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime. We leave right away, so will you pack my clothes, my fishing tackle and especially my blue silk pyjamas. I’ll be home in an hour to pick them up”.
He hurries home, grabs everything and rushes off.
A week later he returns. His wife asks, “Did you have a good trip?”
“Oh yes, great! But you forgot to pack my blue silk pyjamas.”
“Oh no I didn’t. I put them in your tackle box!”
Morley Makes the New Headteacher Welcome.
The Editor meets Kate Marsland
When Kate Marsland decided to leave her life-long home in Wakefield, where her parents still live, to be nearer to her married sister in Warwickshire she wisely, and for the sake of the children of Morley School fortunately, decided that “somewhere in Derbyshire” would be a good halfway point between the two.
After having enjoyed a successful teaching career in Yorkshire since 1986 Kate thought, in 2007, that the time seemed right for a change. She applied for Head Teaching vacancies in Derbyshire and had soon been granted three interviews for posts in the county. The three possibilities were in Hartington, Brassington and Morley.
The Morley interview was the first,and as it turned out only, one Kate attended. Not only did she have to sit before the School Governors but, probably even more daunting, she was checked out by the School Council – six pupils with ages ranging from seven to eleven. Her brief time at the school left a deep impression on Kate as she found the children very friendly with an apparent eagerness to learn, the governors and school staff made her very welcome and the school building and its facilities were first class.
Already aware of the school’s excellent reputation under the guidance of Rosie Pykett, who was about to leave to take up an administrative position, and excited at the prospect of becoming Head Teacher at Morley, Kate had no hesitation in accepting when the Chairman of the School Governors, Tony Daykin, telephoned her on her way home to Wakefield to offer her the job. “I wasted no time at all in cancelling the other two interviews!” Kate said with a smile.
Before the birth of her two daughters, Kate’s mother was herself a Primary School teacher, she was also a Primary Headteacher for twenty years before her retirement, Primary Biology being her speciality. It wasn’t too surprising therefore, that from the age of five Kate’s ambition was to become a teacher.. After a private school education she studied at the North Riding College/Leeds University where she gained her B.Ed. An Honours qualification was added after study at Leeds Metropolitan University before finally getting her Masters Degree at Huddersfield University, where she specialised in Education Management. Kate is currently nearing the end of a two year course when she is hoping to gain The National Professional Qualification for Headship.
In her early months at Morley School Kate lived in her parents’ caravan near Elvaston Castle grounds but after a spell of cold and muddy conditions she moved to Rose Cottage in Church Lane. She is enjoying her time at the school and in the village tremendously and, although aware of the high standards set by her predecessor, standards she is determined to maintain, she also hopes to move the school forward, particularly in the field of technology. More involvement with parents and villagers generally is also in the plan.
Surprisingly Kate still finds time to follow her many interests and hobbies. Listening to classical music, reading and cooking are her main indoor activities, whilst gardening, bird watching, travel and dining out are on her outdoor list.
Partly because it is on next years curriculum at school, but also because she is the only member of her family not to have been there, Kate is planning a trip to Egypt this summer, where she hopes to follow her interest in early Egyptian history. Cairo and Luxor are on her itinarary.
Added to these many interests Kate also sings and has performed with the Yorkshire Philarmonic for twenty years. She is hoping to join a choir in the Derby area.
Kate is looking forward to the rest of her time at Morley with relish, particularly as she finds the village and Derbyshire “almost as good as Yorkshire!”
School Crossing Appeal Catherine Allsopp
The meeting of concern held at Morley Primary School on February 8th 2008 was well supported by residents, parents, councillors, local community groups and our near neighbours Broomfield College. It was heartening to have the backing of our Mayor, Councillor Mrs Eileen Knight, County Councillor Carol Hart, Borough Councillor Mr Alan Sommerfield and the Governors of the school.
Welcome and address was given by Miss Kate Marsland, Head Teacher, followed by a brief history of previous appeals given by Mr John Queenborough, Chair of Morley Parish Council. Mrs Dawn Lockwood, secretary of the PTA informed the meeting what our hopes are to secure a safe place for all to cross, young and old alike. Catherine Allsopp, who is coordinating the appeal on behalf of the community to the County Council, gave a summary of the current situation of road traffic on the A608. Mr Pete Disney gave an excellent power point presentation on behalf of the school, illustrating the need for more protection for pedestrians crossing the A608 and how inadequate our safety measures are in relation to other schools in Derbyshire. Nick Billinge and Ian Baldwin, representing Broomfield College, gave the meeting a glimpse of the immense amount of work the college is undertaking to lobby the County Council for a reduction in the proposed speed limit from 50mph to 40mph along the stretch from from Breadsall to Bell Lane in Smalley. Becky Pollard shared her concerns for her Youth Club members crossing in the evening and Mrs Barbara Daykin MBE highlighted the dangers encountered by a lollipop crossing warden on this dangerous stretch of road. An open discussion culminated in a unanimous decision to push on with this appeal. Volunteers were taken to form a working party and an action plan has been formed.
The Community Appeal and letters of objection to the proposed 50mph limit have been fornmally handed to Brian Lucas, Community Safety Committee Member and Mike Ashworth, Deputy Strategic Director at County Hall, Matlock by Catherine Allsopp on February 14th 2008.
A Community working together to make a difference.
Report on the Church Lane-Lime Lane-Broomfield areas. John Last. Morley Parish Councillor.
As Spring approaches the County Council have at last almost completeted the tree felling in Lower Church Lane. I say almost as the dead trees from the junction with Lime Lane to the lane’s passing point were not felled (perhaps) due to the presence of power cables. Hopefully they will be felled before they fall down bringing the cables with them.
On the whole the contractor did a good job clearing up after themselves although not clearing the remnants of trees that had previously fallen down. Presumably clearing all of the dead wood was not part of the contract.
The verges down the whole length of Church Lane continue to be damaged. On Upper Church Lane due to vehicles who should not use the lane due to the weight restriction, ignoring that and finding out the restriction is there for a reason. On Lower Church Lane the damage is causing passing places much beloved by the new landowners below Spring Oaks Farm and opposed by all the residents. Whether the damage is being caused deliberately or accidentally I do not know, but it achieving the result of creating passing places without the need for planning permission.I am aware that, contrary to views expressed at the Parish Council meeting, the damage is not caused by the council refuse lorry as its wheelspan is such that it does not have to go off the tarmac. If the damage to the verges is not repaired the tarmac will soon start to break away. Whether the County Council will be prepared to repair the surface, and if so when, remains a question to be answered when the road starts to decay.
At the last Parish Council meeting the Clerk reported that the Borough Council had advised him that the parish had been cleared of litter. The Borough Council must be unaware of the existence of Lime Lane as the litter at the side of the road is nothing short of disgraceful and a sad indictment of the throw-away society we now live in. Quite why motorists cannot leave their waste inside the confines of their car until they get home is beyond me. If anyone sees a motorist throwing litter out of their car please take the number plate so the police can take action.
The “rumble strips” along the A608 past Broomfield did not prevent the tragedy on the evening of 26th January when four young people died just past Ferriby Cottage and two more ended up in hospital. I do not know the true cause of the accident but as I drive along that section of road every day I do wonder how on earth an accident could happen where it did, if both drivers were obeying the speed limit. As you may be aware the County Council is proposing to reduce the speed limit on the A608 to 50 mph. Whilst the Parish Council support a reduction, we are pressing for 40 mph dropping to 30 mph through Morley Smithy.The School is actively involved in supporting a reduction in the speed limits and is fronting a campaign to persuade the council to install a Puffin crossing outside the school. The council will no doubt use the excuse of lacking funds. They should reflect on the human cost of lost lives caused by speeding motorists.
Derby College (Broomfield) Students’ Union’s fight for road safety
Following the tragic accident which left four dead and two injured on the A608 Morley, last month, Derby College Students’ Union decided to take action and fight for the national speed limit stretch to be reduced to 40mph, with their ‘Make it safe, make it 40!’ campaign.
The accident took place just 300 metres from Derby College Broomfield Hall which raised concerns regarding the risks posed when entering/exiting the site. The Students’ Union is asking students, staff and local residents to show their support by signing the official petition, and posting their objection letter and postcard to the Derbyshire County Council.
The College and Students’ Union have been informed that the Derbyshire County Council proposes to change the speed limit by an Order under the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984, to reduce the speed limit to 50mph, but Nick Billinge, General Manager of the Students’ Union and spokesperson for the campaign, states that “this is just unacceptable, the road limit needs to be reduced to 40mph and traffic calming measures need to be put into place, in order to reduce the chances of any accidents happening again!”
Under the Colleges’ general duty of care, Derby College needs to ensure that the safety of their students and staff is made priority, and are very grateful that the Students’ Union have come together to fight for such a cause. David Croll, Principal of the Derby College, supports the campaign: “The safety of our students is of utmost importance and I would encourage staff, students and local residents to support the campaign by signing the petition.”
On Friday 15th February 2008 at 11.30am, members of the Students’ Union will be travelling to the Derbyshire County Council Offices in Matlock to present their campaign to Mike Ashworth, Deputy Strategic Director, and Brian Lucas, Community Safety Committee member. After the presentation there will be a meeting for several campaign supporters, an opportunity for them to put their views and concerns across. During this meeting Nick Billinge wishes to discuss the concerning issues and represent the views of all the petitioners, concerned parents and residents in order to change the road limit to 40mph.
If you would like to get involved in this campaign and want action to be taken, please visit the Derby College Students’ Union website www.dcsu.co.uk and click on the ‘Make it safe, make it 40!’ logo, here you will be able to download a copy of the petition, objection letter and postcard. Alternatively you can contact Nick Billinge on 01332 520 387 for further information.
For more information about the campaign please contact:
Nick Billinge
Tel: 01332 520387
Mob: 07712 184005
Email: nick.billinge@derby-college.ac.uk
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Walk the Walk
At last the footpath on the A608
has been restored like new
It only took 8 months to get done
as for the wait I've got no clue.
Weedkiller they said would do the trick
but alas it was no good
It needed men with a big machine
to shovel up the weeds and mud
A lorry came on Christmas eve
the workmen and I did banter
I said " it's great to see you lot"
it was like a gift from Santa.
All the dips and all the holes
are gone so have no fear.
It's safe and sound as you make your way
to Morley Hayes for a quick beer.
I salute the council for a job well done
mind you It took some time.
But all good things come to those who wait
one year for our "slow down "speed signs
Use the path, enjoy the walk, excersise will make you fitter.
and as you make your way along along that stretch,
would you mind picking up some litter !
( I think it may have been sorted, not sure though ! )
Andy Twigge
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Note from the Editor
The more discerning of the Mirror’s readers might have noticed that this issue is entitled Spring and the first one was Autumn, so what happened to Winter?
When the time came to produce the Winter issue I had just one item to put in it.
However like Corporation buses which all come at once, so did articles for the Spring Newsletter.
I would be very pleased to receive items of news, articles, anniversaries or letters on any non-controversial subject over the next two months in the hope that the Summer issue doesn’t become the Autumn one!
Material for the Morley Mirror can be sent by post, e,mail or hand-delivered to me, or to any Parish Councillor.
I take this opportunity to thank those individuals who have contributed to this issue.
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Who Sir! Ken Wood
You might recall that at the end of February ‘Network Rail’, the nationalised arm of our rail system responsible for track maintenance, was fined £14,000,000 for delays in replacing and repairing sections of the track on the ‘West Coast’ mainline. This debacle was reported in all the national papers, on television and on radio. What had not been so freely reported was the fact that on the the same day that the fine was announced (this you will realise is tax payers’ money) the head of ‘Network Rail’, Mr Ian McAllister, visited Buckingham Palace to receive a knighthood for (and I quote the citation) ‘Services to Transport’ The only transport actually moving was was fleets of busses transporting stranded rail passengers.
I am convinced that every six months, a little before the Queen’s official birthday and New Year’s Day, a committee meets in Whitehall with ‘front page’ cuttings from the national papers. From this a list of potential recipients for the numerous honours is drawn up, always reaching the allocated number of five thousand. Having checked out and scrutinised the candidates – and I would not be surprised if names such as Peter Sutcliffe or Jeffrey Archer were on that starting list - they then finalise the numbers. Simple, isn’t it: notoriety to knighthood. Excuse my cynicism but standards do appear to be falling, not only to the ‘Sir’ in knighthood, but also the ‘Sir’ in the street.
In the same week as the ‘Network Rail’ announcements, one of our village stalwarts, Sam Marshall, passed away. No ‘honours’ recognition for Sam, who had been a member of the British Expeditionary Force, escaping back to Britain via the beaches of Dunkirk. After such a traumatic experience he then returned to Europe to fight once again and ended up in a prisoner of war camp. In less hostile times he served as a Parish Councillor for Morley with a continuous service of some fifty five years, a record in this country.
Regardless of your own personal opinions, surely some recognition and gratitude should have been bestowed on Sam. What more could he have done? He certainly did not do it with ‘honours’ in mind. Presumably Sam never reached the ‘front pages’! Unfortunately, our priorities and expectations have changed over the years, for good or bad. I happen to believe for the bad.
Only when the people in authority credit the positive actions performed by members of the public can we start to instil a sense of respect throughout the rest of our society.
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Murphy’s Law
Murphy was arrested for murder but managed to bribe a member of the jury to hold out for a verdict of manslaughter. The jury was out for eight hours but when it returned, the verdict was manslaughter.
Murphy smiled at the man he had bribed and as he was led away he whispered,
“I’m so grateful, I hope it wasn’t too difficult”
“It was touch and go,” said the man, “All the others wanted to acquit you.”
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Mayoral Communications.
Mrs EileenKnight. Mayor of Erewash.
As the Lufthansa flight made its way towards Frankfurt, I found myself reflecting on how I came to be travelling to Germany. Three weeks earlier, for the first time in my life, I had stood as a candidate in the Local Elections. Having gained the seat, I became the Erewash Borough Council’s elected member for Breadsall, Little Eaton and Morley, sharing responsibility for this Ward with Councillor Alan Summerfield. Ten days later I was nominated for the position of Mayor and the Official Mayor-making Ceremony took place on the evening of Thursday 24 May 2007 at Ilkeston Town Hall.
So, here I was, the day after Mayor-making, clutching the solid gold Mayoral chain and heading for Frankfurt! The reason for my visit was to celebrate the twinning of our three towns: Long Eaton, UK; Langen, Germany and Romorantin, France. Upon arrival at our hotel the UK Civic Party, together with the French delegation, were greeted by the Mayor of Langen – Herr Dieter Pitthan who hosted our welcome dinner at the Hotel Steigenberger, Langen.
The follow morning (Saturday) we gathered in front of Langen Town Hall where an Official Ceremony was to take place, each Mayor hoisting the respective flags of Germany, France and the UK. Imagine what a proud moment it was for me to be hoisting the flag of our beloved United Kingdom. The next item on the programme was shown as “Official Welcome by Mayor Pitthan and addresses by the Mayors in the Great Room of Langen’s Municipal Hall”. (Little did I know of what lay ahead and why didn’t I remember “Always expect the unexpected!”).
The time came for me to deliver my first official speech as Mayor of the Borough of Erewash -although I wasn’t aware this would be to approximately 450-500 guests! My apprehension was misplaced because, much to my relief, all went well. The day continued with drinks in the foyer, followed by lunch at a beautiful traditional German Restaurant “Zum Haferkasten” in Langen Old Town.
In the afternoon heat, we all tried to find shade at a Ceremony commemorating the 40 year existence of the Fordererkreis fur Europaische Partnerschaften e.V at Langen Railway Station (Friends and Supporters of European Partnerships), where a plaque was unveiled to mark this Anniversary. Later that evening we attended a welcome and joint dinner under the auspices of Stadtwerke (Municipal Works) Langen GmbH at the invitation of the Fordererkreis in Langen’s Municipal Hall. (Have I only been Mayor for 48 hours??)
The Borough is fortunate to have strong links with three European towns – two in France and one in Germany. I should like to mention that twinning is not just for Civic Leaders and Officers but it is an opportunity for the community to get involved, especially schools and sporting organisations. We have two twinning
associations which actively promote these links, more members are always welcome and further details may be obtained from the Civic Office at Ilkeston Town Hall.
The Mayor is the representative of 110,000 residents in the Borough of Erewash and attends between 300-350 engagements during the year. No two engagements are ever the same and it has been known to have back to back engagements on many occasions. This is additional to the work required of a Ward Councillor.
Upon return from the visit to Germany, my feet landed firmly on the ground when I received my first week’s civic engagement list. Mayoral duties take precedence over all personal commitments and activities and my ability to multi-task were soon put to the test!
It is a great honour and privilege to be the Ambassador for Erewash both throughout our Borough and at events in the County of Derbyshire. I am especially proud to be the first Mayor from the Village of Morley and would like to publicly congratulate Councillor Pauline Latham from Little Eaton on her role of Mayor of the City of Derby as we share the same civic year 2007/2008.
During my year in office I am supported by my daughter Karen as Mayoress, together with my grand-daughter Zara as Mini Mayor. I have also invited fellow councillors and friends to accompany me to certain engagements when my daughter has been unavailable. This has been an invaluable experience, both for me but especially for other newly elected members.
Our Charity Civic Dinner will be held on Friday 18 April at the Novotel, Long Eaton. All are welcome and details/tickets may be obtained from Susan Dunkley at Ilkeston Town Hall.
Once again, we are fortunate to have the support of Andrew Allsop and the Directors of Morley Hayes and a Charity Golf Day will be held on Thursday 1 May. Further information may be obtained from Susan Dunkley at Ilkeston Town Hall or from the Borough web page www.erewash.gov.uk.
I have chosen to support three very deserving local charities during my civic year, namely:
The League of Friends of Ilkeston Community Hospital
The Royal British Legion (Ilkeston and Long Eaton Branches)
The County’s Air Ambulance
Finally, may I take this opportunity to offer my best wishes to all local residents and, especially to Ken Hopkins, the Editor of The Morley Mirror on this second publication – Spring 2008.
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Get behind the Council.
Alan Draycott writes from West Hallam
It is nice to be able to write something about Morley that is not written in my capacity as Clerk to the Council, but as an onlooker from a neighbouring parish.
It made my blood boil recently when I heard a comment from a local resident that nothing ever gets done in Morley and that the Councillors blow a lot of hot air but never actually achieve anything. You know the sort of thing I mean, "they're only in it for what they can get out of it", "all they want is the glory", "they sit on their backsides and do nothing", etc etc.
In the last few years, the Council have refurbished the war memorial, had a clock put on the school building, installed at least three additional seats, rebuilt the allotment stone walls, installed new notice boards, introduced a christmas tree and lights and are now embarking on a plan to plant trees, shrubs and bulbs around the parish. Admittedly this has been done with the financial help of Erewash Borough Council but there are many other things that the Council has done that have have often been achieved through sheer hard work and persistence. For example, the path between Morley Hayes and the Smithy has recently been refurbished, due almost entirely to the persistence of one Councillor. Again, the battle to stop development at the bottom of Church Lane, if it is won, will owe a very significant debt of gratitude to one Councillor and I'm sure you know who that Councillor is.
I strongly suspect that this article will not be published and if it is I shall probably be run out of Morley. But never mind that, come on good citizens of Morley, get behind your Parish Council.
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Your local Amber Valley MP Judy Malliber
Your local County Councillor Carol Hart
Your local Borough Councillors:-
Eileen Knight, Mayor of Erewash. Alex Sommerville.
Your Parish Councillors
John Queenborough Chair. 01332881927
Chrissie Hall Vice-chair. 01332 881795
Tony Daykin 01332 880180
Andy Twigge 01332 831157
Mo Hickling 01332 832537
John Last 01332 834703
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The Morley Mirror is a free news sheet produced and edited on behalf of Morley Parish Counci by Ken Hopkins, Kimberley House,Church Lane, Morley. Derbys. DE7 6DE
Telephone 01332 831676 email kenandmarie@btinternet.com .
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