Ripley Town Council - Derbyshire Council of the Year
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February 2021


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January 2021

Proposed dates for Ripley Town Council events in 2021
​At the time of writing this, we do not know if any of our events will take place as Government guidelines may change. Our Events Committee will be meeting regularly to discuss our events programme. In the mean time, please pencil these on to your calendar and we will update you via our newsletters, website and social media:
  • Spring Market & Well Dressing - Sunday 16th May 2021 
  • Community Wool Bombing - 16th May - 4th June 2021 
  • Big Day Out at Midland Railway - 7th July 2021
  • Outdoor Cinema - 10th September 2021
  • Christmas Light Switch on - 24th Nov 2021
  • Christmas Market - 5th December 2021
  • Bands on Crossley Park - June 27th, July 11th & 25th July, August 8th & 22nd, September 5th 2021.
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New Year Honour for Ripley Town Councillor
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​We are thrilled to announce that the former Mayor of Ripley and current Town Councillor, Paul Lobley has been awarded a BEM in the New Year’s
Honours List.

This award, the BEM is in recognition of his services to the  community in Derbyshire.

Councillor Lobley, who lives in Heage with his family, has an extensive background in the voluntary sector. He has previously volunteered for 10 years with Ripley based charity, Derbyshire Carers Association and many local groups including St. Luke’s Church in Heage, Babington Hospital League of Friends, Heage Speed Watch, Heage Primary School, Heage Cubs and Leonard Cheshire Eastern Region, to name a few.

Councillor Lobley said, “I was greatly humbled to have been put forward for an honour. Over the years, I have worked alongside groups of amazing people who have generously given their time for the benefit of others. The medal will serve to remind me that I have had the
privilege of being just one small cog in that huge selfless machine supporting our community.”


Lockdown #3
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​We are in the midst of a third Lockdown. Please continue to follow government guidelines and advice. We all know the drill: wash your hands, cover your face when in indoor public areas and socially distance. The vaccinations are well underway now. Hopefully later this year, we will be able to come together, safely as a community.

For local information advice regarding Coronavirus, please click here
Please stay safe. 


Community Speed Watch Volunteers needed
​Ripley Safer Neighbourhood Team are looking for volunteers to assist them in monitoring speeding traffic in the Ripley area. If you are interested, please contact PSCO George Howe on 101 or for info, http://bit.ly/38ID0Am

Oxford Street Barrier Update
At the meeting of Ripley Town Council in November 2020, it was reported to us from a representative of Derbyshire County Council that, as a matter of urgency, the barriers at the top and bottom of Oxford Street in Ripley were going to be replaced. Unfortunately his still has not happened. We hope to give you a more positive update in our next newsletter.

We asked, you answered and we delivered!
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​Last year, we held a public consultation through our newsletter, website and social media channels, asking you what new equipment you would like to see at Cedar Avenue play area in Ripley.

We are thrilled to report that the new see-saw and slide has been installed and used many times by the young people in our community.


​Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes (pictured) said, ‘It is great to see the excitement of young people using this popular play area. Ripley Town Council pride ourselves in consulting with our community and
listening to what you want. We hope this new equipment brings a sense of fun and adventure to our young members of the community for many years’.

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December 2020

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Derbyshire in Tier 3

From 2nd December 2020, the whole of Derbyshire is in Tier 3: Very High Alert.

Please keep our community safe by following Government guidelines. To find out what this means for us, please click here

Please stay safe and keep the people around us safe too.

November 2020 


Ripley Christmas Lights

It isn't the way we usually switch the Christmas lights on in town. Every year, hundreds and hundreds of people, young and old congregate on Ripley Market Place as a community to come together to celebrate the start of the festivities. The lights are on, bringing a sparkle to the town.

One thing's for sure, the famous Ripley Snowman is back!

We hope you enjoy seeing the lights as you go around town.

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Remembrance in Ripley

The annual Remembrance Parade and Church Services in Ripley were sadly cancelled this year.

Regular supporters of this event know that our wonderful community turn out in their hundreds to either take part in the parade or to spectate through the streets of Ripley and at All Saints’ Church. 
 
The Ripley Branch of the Royal British Legion wanted to ensure the safety of our community. 

During the days around Remembrance, crosses were be placed in the sand box in the churchyard and wreaths were laid on the cenotaph. 

Residents in our community united with the rest of the nation to make sure that no one was forgotten and honoured those who sacrificed themselves to secure and protect our freedom.


October 2020


Ripley Town Council win Excellence Award for Derbyshire Council of the Year, for a second time!

Picture(L-R) - Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes, Linda McCormick (Town Clerk) and Michelle South, BHIB Representative.
Earlier today (20th October 2020), Ripley Town Council were presented with the 2020 Excellence Award for Derbyshire Council of the Year by DALC (Derbyshire Association of Local Councils).

This is the second time Ripley Town Council have received this award, having previously won it in 2018 and we received the Highly Commended accolade in 2019.

There are over 200 parish and town councils in Derbyshire and Ripley Town Council was chosen for organising several widely attended community events during 2019, including the Big Day Out at Midland Railway, the outdoor cinema on Greenwich Recreation Ground and the Christmas Light Switch on and Christmas Market. Also, for engaging with the residents in the Ripley Township by consulting them on decisions regarding new play equipment at Cedar Road Playground and film choices for the outdoor cinema and importantly, engaging with young people by providing the Ripley Youth Hub for them to attend on Wednesday evenings.

Judges were representatives from BHIB Insurance, sponsors of the award. They were impressed with how Ripley Town Council have supported local groups through grant giving and during difficult times this year, supporting Ripley Salvation Army to help local families in need during the pandemic and providing materials for local people to make scrubs for local hospitals and doctor surgeries to use.

Ripley Town Council aims to promote the Township of Ripley with the magnificent Christmas lights being a major attraction during the festive season.

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Members of Ripley Town Council at the monthly meeting, having heard the wonderful news about this award!

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  Halloween Fun this October Half Term

    Please join us and place a pumpkin in your window or
​    front garden for people to spot!


September 2020


Community chooses new play equipment for Cedar Avenue, Ripley

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Thank you to everyone who completed the online or postal consultation where we asked you to tell us what play equipment you would like to see at Cedar Avenue Playground in Ripley.

We are delighted to report that the winners of the poll were the Rocking Horse and Slide.

Ripley Town Council are now working with our contractor to install the new equipment at the Playground for the young people in our community to enjoy for many years to come.

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Ripley Christmas events cancelled

Ripley Christmas Light Switch on 2019Ripley Christmas Light Switch on 2019
It is with deep regret that Ripley Town Council will not be holding the traditional Christmas Light Switch On event and the Christmas Market this year.

The Christmas Light Switch on attracts around 2000 people to Ripley Market Place and unfortunately that space is not large enough to enable safe social distancing.

Likewise, the annual Christmas Market attracts hundreds of people and we feel that with social distancing, not being able to have singers or entertainers or even Father Christmas paying us a visit, we wouldn’t be able to give our community the event they are used to.

We understand that you may be disappointed but please know that the health and safety of our community, volunteers, stall holders and staff are paramount to us.

We have made this decision now as lots of planning, months in advance must take place for us to bring you these events.

CHRISTMAS IS NOT CANCELLED IN RIPLEY. Please continue to support our wonderful local shops and market and buy your Christmas presents from them. Still drink and eat out in the many pubs, café’s, restaurants, and takeaways we have locally. Decorate your homes, inside and out with Christmas decorations to help spread the Christmas cheer. Let’s continue with the amazing community spirit we have all shown this year.

As always, we will bring a wonderful display of festive lights to Ripley town centre and surrounding villages and fear not, the world-famous Ripley Snowman will be returning to wave to us all from Ripley Town Hall!

This year has been a challenging one for everyone in our community. We hope to bring bigger and better events to you all in 2021. With the Spring Market and Well Dressing in May and the wonderful Big Day Out at Midland Railway in July, then later in the year the Outdoor Cinema and the Christmas events.
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Please take care and stay safe.


August 2020

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Ripley Charter Fair 2020 is cancelled
Organiser of the Ripley Charter Fair, The Showman's Guild have taken the difficult decision to cancel the event this autumn.

​Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes said, ‘Ripley Charter Fair has been held since 1251 and is one of the highlights of the year in Ripley. During the year, the Mayor has many responsibilities, but one of the most pleasurable is to continue the tradition and officially open the fair.' 

He added, 'Ripley Town Council fully support The Showman’s Guild decision to cancel the event this year. The safety of our community is paramount to us. Ripley Market Place becomes a very busy area when the fair is in town and it is not possible for people to social distance from one another. We look forward to welcoming the fair back to Ripley in 2021, for what will be the 769th Ripley Charter Fair and seeing Ripley Market Place crowded once again.’

July 2020

New play equipment for Cedar Avenue Playground

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We are looking to add two new pieces of fun, play equipment to Cedar Avenue Playground in Ripley. We want to know what YOU would like there. Please discuss this with any young children who you know as we would love for them to help choose.

You can complete a quick survey by clicking the button below.

​The two pieces of equipment with the most votes will be selected, subject to price and installation fees.

Survey closed on 31st August 2020.

​Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. The winning equipment will be announced soon!


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CLOSURE OF CLARKES DEPARTMENT STORE IN RIPLEY

Like many of you, we are shocked and saddened to hear the news that our neighbour and one of the longest serving shops in Ripley is to close its doors this autumn.

WE Clarkes has been on Grosvenor Road in Ripley since it opened in 1912. Back then, it was originally a tailors and today, it is run by David Clarke, the grandson of its founder as a department store selling clothes, shoes and items for the home.

As their website states, ‘a family run department store is a rarity these days’. They have been prominent in Ripley Town Centre with people travelling from out of Ripley to visit their shop. They have also been a great supporter of Ripley Hospital over the years.

We wish David and Jodi Clarke and all their wonderful members of staff, all the best for their future endeavours.


May 2020

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Ripley's Big Day Out 2020 cancelled
Regretfully, this year's Big Day Out at Midland Railway - Butterley on 1st July 2020, has been cancelled.Don't worry because it will be back, bigger and better next year! Save the date...
Wednesday 7th July 2021, 12pm - 7pm.

April 2020
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For all information relating to Coronavirus in our area and information about support available to individuals and businesses, please click the button below.
Coronavirus Updates

March 2020

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Ripley Music Festival 2020 cancelled
It is with regret that the Ripley Music Festival Committee must announce that Ripley Music Festival (RMF) 2020 due to take place 11th to 19th July 2020 is cancelled due to the corona virus outbreak. RMF's jam nights which take place every Sunday at the Holly Bush, Ripley will also be on hold until further notice.

​​Ripley Music Festival is a not for profit community event that has brought music to the forefront in the local community for the past 20 years. Every year during the second week of July, due to the hard work of local volunteers, a music spectacular is held across the town with the highlight being the annual party in park which is enjoyed by thousands of local people.

RMF would like to thank all those that have applied to play at this year's festival, rest assured they will be back even bigger and better in 2021 and ready and waiting for your applications. The committee would also like to thank those that have supported the festival so far this year, the festival has had some brilliant support this year after the announcement that the festival was struggling including a brilliant fundraiser at the Regal Ripley which raised over £1000 for the festival. All money raised will be rolled over to the 2021 festival. Ripley Music Festival 2021 will take place 10th to 18th July 2021 so get the date in your diaries now!

Steve Freeborn, Chairman of Ripley Music Festival said: “The corona virus is causing huge disruption and deaths around the world.  Peoples health and well-being is far more important than any music festival.  Stay safe every one and come and enjoy the music next year!”
To find out more about the festival and keep up to date find us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RipleyMusicFestival/


Citizens Advice Derbyshire and District information update
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March 2020

PictureRepresentatives from Ripley Town Centre businesses
RIPLEY TRADERS MEET TO DISCUSS IDEAS OF HOW TO REJUVENATE THE TOWN
On Tuesday 3rd March 2020, we invited Ripley Town Centre traders to attended a meeting to discuss what we want to do for Ripley and how we can encourage more visitors to the town.
We all want the same thing, to encourage people to shop local in Ripley. We discussed car parking issues, crime, events, marketing and helping one another, amongst other things. We hope, in time that positive changes can be made by all working together.
We have great shops in our town with extremely hard working, dedicated and determined people running them.

The next Ripley Town Centre Traders meeting will be on Thursday 23rd April 2020 at 5.30pm in the Chamber of Ripley Town Hall. If you would like to come along, please register your attendance by emailing deputyclerk@ripleytowncouncil.gov.uk or calling 01773 513456 (between 10am and 3pm). 

                                 
                                       Ripley Traders can also join a private Facebook group by clicking on this title, 'Ripley Town Centre Traders Forum'.
                                  Please shop local. Please shop in Ripley ❤


February 2020
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MAYOR OF RIPLEY RAISES MONEY FOR TWO LOCAL CHARITIES

In late February, Sea Fish Ripley hosted the Mayor of Ripley's Charity Dinner where Councillor Tony Holmes and his Consort, Councillor Lyndsay Cox welcomed guests to the charity fundraiser.

The Mayor's chosen charities for his year in post is Ripley Hospital League of Friends and Rethink Mental Illness, based at The Croft in Ripley.
The evening raised over £1200 from the sale of tickets to the dinner and raffle tickets that were sold. This money will be split equally between the two charities.

Councillor Holmes would like to thank the following people:
The owners and fantastic staff at the Sea Fish restaurant for hosting the event and for providing the delicious food, free of charge.
All the local traders and members of the community that kindly donated prizes for the raffle.
Everyone that purchased a raffle ticket. (All winners have been notified)
All the guests, which included representatives from local community groups and charities for buying tickets for the event and supporting the charities.


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RIPLEY BIG DAY OUT 2020
We are pleased to announce that the Ripley Big Day Out 2020 will be at Midland Railway - Butterley on Wednesday 1st July 2020, 12pm until 7pm. 
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We have changed the timings so more of our local community can enjoy the FREE event and all the FREE attractions after you have finished school/ work too! More details about this event will be advertised here in due course, but in the meantime, put it on your calendar and we hope to see you there!


December 2019
Ripley Christmas 2019 Events 
Thank you to all our members of the community that came along to the Ripley Christmas Light Switch on and Carol Service on Friday 29th November 2019. 

We had a record number of people who came together to celebrate on the evening. Thank you to Rev. John Wigram from All Saint's Church in Ripley for leading the carol service and to the brilliant Newstead Brass for the wonderful music. You may have seen Elsa and Olaf from Frozen going around the Market Place, having their photo taken with the kids (and big kids). Also, thank you to Ripley Lions for organising Father Christmas to come along and give out gifts to the children and to Amber Sound FM for the music and commentary, live on air. 

​On Sunday 1st December 2019, it was the Ripley Family Christmas Market. Again, our local community attended in their hundreds to support this local event. We had a Ferris wheel which was free to ride on as many times as you liked.  Our special thanks must go to Ripley resident, 100 year old Dorothy Jessop for being the Mayor of Ripley's guest and having the first ride with him on the Ferris wheel.

Children enjoyed free rides and seeing Woody and Buzz from Toy Story, then later the naughty Elf on the Shelf made an appearance, playing tricks on people. We were entertained by the fabulous Punch and Judy and the fantastic Ripley Academy of Dance were there giving great performances. Newstead Brass returned to play Christmas carols and this time they were accompanied by Somercotes Choral Society.  Member of Ripley Town Council gave away free elf hats to children. Thank you to Amber Valley Rotary Club for bringing Father Christmas along on his sleigh. The children loved talking to him and having their photo taken.

We would like to thank all the stall holders for coming along on the day and to all the people that purchased items from them, making their day a success.

Ripley Town Council are proud to bring all of these events to our local community. 

November 2019


BBC Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge receives a warm welcome in Ripley
On Wednesday 13th November 2019, the BBC Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge stopped off in Ripley as part of their 400 mile journey from Wales to London.

As usual, the Ripley community came out to support the team as they cycled through the town, stopping at Ripley Fire Station for a rest break. Local school children came out onto the streets to cheer them on along with local residents and businesses.

The One Show presenter, Matt Baker who is also on Team Rickshaw along with five young people who have received support from Children in Need, high-fived the school children and took time to speak with them. Children in Need mascot, Pudsey

Ripley Town Mayor, Councillor Tony Holmes had a chat with Matt.  Councillor Holmes said, 'It was great that Matt and other team members took time out of their rest break to come out to speak with the crowd'. He added, 'I wished Matt and the team all the best for their remaining journey and for their fundraising efforts. I am so proud of our local community for coming together to make the team welcome in our town. It's community spirit at its finest'.

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Mayor donates tree to Ripley St. John's Primary School

The Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes and his Consort, Councillor Lyndsay Cox dropped in to Ripley St. John's School. They took with them a donation and tree for the school to plant in their grounds. It was a thank you from the Mayor for them designing and producing this year's Ripley Well Dressing with the theme '50th anniversary of the Moon landing'.

Deputy Head, Chris Howarth and Teaching Assistant, Sarah Curzon gave great advice to Ripley Town Council in regards to setting up the Ripley Wool Bombing project in the town and encouraging other local schools to get involved.

The school have been involved in other wool bombing projects in the area and they were instrumental in helping to get the Ripley Wool Bombing off the ground.

Pictured: Ripley St. John's Headteacher, Wendy Rose with The Mayor and Consort and school pupils.

Also pictured is the process of the well dressing boards being produced.
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If you are part of a local group who is interested in producing the 2020 Well Dressing for Ripley, please get in touch with Ripley Town Council - deputyclerk@ripleytowncouncil.gov.uk / 01773 513456. We will provide the board and all the materials, you just provide the vision and creativity!

PictureAlan Carter receiving his Certificate of Merit from Ripley Mayor, Councillor Tony Holmes
Ripley resident receives Certificate of Merit

Ripley resident, Alan Carter won the Ripley Town Council 2019 Certificate of Merit Award for his long service, support and contribution to Neighbourhood Watch – North Division Derbyshire.
 
He was nominated by Cate Wain and Julie Walters from the Meadow Road Neighbourhood Watch group in Ripley which Alan supports with advice and encouragement.
 
Alan began volunteering with Neighbourhood Watch back in 1989. Cate Wain said, ‘Alan has a sense of great pride in living in Ripley and that pride is infectious. He is truly inspirational and now holds the position of Chair of North Division Derbyshire Neighbourhood Watch’.
 
She added, ‘Alan is always out and about doing great work to support people setting up and establishing Neighbourhood Watch groups in their community. He even gave up his own time to dress up as Father Christmas for an event last year on our road’.
 
On receiving the award from the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes at the recent Ripley Town Council Civic Service, Alan said ‘I am thrilled to have received this recognition. I truly love what I do, helping our community stay safe’.


October 2019

Ripley Fair officially opened by Town Mayor

The 768th Ripley Charter Fair was officially opened by the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes at 6pm on Wednesday 23rd October 2019. 

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Highly Commended Council 2019

At the recent Derbyshire Association of Local Council's AGM in Chesterfield, Ripley Town Council were presented with the BHIB Derbyshire Local Council of the Year 2019, highly commended award.

This was to acknowledge the services we provide to our local community through the free events we organise such as the Spring Festival, Wool Bombing, Christmas events, Bands on the Park in the summer, the Big Day Out and the Outdoor Cinema. Also recognised was the free youth initiatives we organise like the Extreme Wheels, Ripley Music Hub and Ripley Youth Hub.

​We are thrilled to have been commended for the work we do, for you, our local community.



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Ripley Music Festival needs you!
The highlight of Ripley's community calendar is heading into its 20th year but Ripley Music Festival desperately needs your help to prevent its collapse.

Ripley Music Festival is a not for profit community event that has brought music to the forefront in the local community for the past 20 years. Every year during July, due to the hard work of local volunteers a music spectacular is held across the town with the highlight being the annual Party in Park which is enjoyed by thousands of local people. However due to increased costs and a reduced number of volunteers, Ripley Music Festival is struggling - with the future of the festival being thrown into doubt.

Many do not realise that although the festival is supported by many fantastic local businesses and Ripley Town Council, £7,500 still needs to be raised to secure the festival for 2020. The festival is organised solely by volunteers who work their hardest to put the festival on out of their love of music. But with fewer volunteers, the task of organising the festival is getting harder.

The committee behind Ripley Music Festival are appealing for volunteers of any background to help keep the festival in all its glory - whether you want to help host one of the festival's weekly jam nights, assist with fundraising or just help out during the festival itself - get in touch with them and help save Ripley Music Festival.
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Steve Freeborn, Chair of Ripley Music Festival said: “It would be a really sad day if the Festival Committee decided that enough is enough.  The event needs more help if it is to survive so I really hope a number of people come forward.”
If you want to help you can attend Ripley Music Festival's Annual General Meeting on Monday 14th October at the Holly Bush Inn, Marehay at 7.30pm.  Or for further information please contact ripleymusicfestival@hotmail.com or message them on Facebook. 


September 2019
Ripley Harvest Market 2019
The first ever Harvest Market was held on Ripley Market Place on Sunday 22nd September 2019. The weather wasn't great but our wonderful community still came along to see what the stalls had on offer. There was traditional Caribbean cuisine, local producers selling their delicious cakes, pies, chocolate, drinks and gifts. There were two cookery demonstrations, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon which were well attended. Woody from Toy Story was also there having photos with children. The Ripley Salvation Army attended so people could give donations to their food bank which helps local disadvantaged people. Thank you to everyone that came along and braved the weather.

Garden and Allotment 2019 Winners announced
The winners of this competition were given their prizes of Co-op Gift Vouchers on Tuesday 17th September 2019 at the monthly Ripley Town Council meeting.

Unfortunately, two of the winners were unable to attend the presentation but will be given their prize at a later date.

Ripley Town Council would like to thank everyone that entered the competition. The judges, the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Tony Holmes, his Consort Councillor Lyndsay Cox and independent judge, Caroline Pollard had a difficult job of deciding the winners as the standard was so high throughout the two categories.
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Richard Watson who represented the sponsors of this competition, the Central England Cooperative was at the presentation to give the prizes of £70 first prize, £40 second prize and £20 for third prize. Thank you to the Co-op for kindly donating these prizes.


Ripley Outdoor Cinema a success!
Thank you to everyone that attended the first ever FREE Ripley Outdoor Cinema. We were thrilled that so many of you attended to watch 'The Greatest Showman'. This film was chosen by you, the public through a Facebook vote. It was brilliant to see you singing along and tapping your feet.
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August 2019

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You have the power to bring about positive change. Every action makes a difference, so start today with the theme that inspires you most.

Check out this website, for really useful information about how you can help the environment, climate change buy doing simple things in your everyday life.  
https://www.52climateactions.com/


June 2019
Ripley Community at it's Best!

Sunday 19th May 2019 was the day of the Ripley Spring Market. This incorporated the blessing of the Ripley Well Dressing and the launch of the very first Ripley Community Wool Bombing Project.

The Market was well attended. We had a variety of stalls selling gifts and food. We had several local charities there, raising money and awareness for their groups. We were entertained by the crowd’s favourite, Punch and Judy and Ripley Academy of Dance gave an impressive repertoire of
contemporary and traditional dancing. Later in the day, the Ripley Green Garters brought a splash of  colour and traditional dancing to the arena.
Ripley Town Council treated children to free face painting, free fairground rides and free balloon modelling. Amber Sound FM were there doing a live outside broadcast from the event.

This year, the Ripley Well Dressing was designed and produced by Ripley St. John’s Primary School on behalf of the community.

The theme was the 50th anniversary of the Moon landing. Well done to all the children and staff who created this wonderful piece of art for Ripley. So much detail, time and effort went into producing this well dressing. Thank you to Denby Pottery for donating the clay and Margaret's Florist for donating flowers. Also thanks to Rev John Wigram from All Saints Church Ripley, for officially blessing the well on the day.

This year, Ripley Town Council introduced the Ripley Community Wool Bombing at the Spring Market. Initially we hoped we would get enough local groups, schools, businesses to decorate some of the trees on Ripley Market Place. However, our faith in the Ripley community didn’t disappoint us when we were inundated with groups wanting to take part. Quickly, the trees on Ripley Market Place had been taken, which meant that we had to use the trees on Crossley Park too.

We were overwhelmed by the response and enthusiasm from you, our community. We hope you managed to see the decorated trees during the two weeks they were decorated.

The wool that could be recycled has been washed and sewn together to make blankets for the homeless.

We have received so much positive feedback from you all about this. We are thrilled and proud that you embraced this new idea for Ripley.
 
Thank you to everyone who knitted, crocheted or made pom poms. We will be keeping you informed about our future plans and would like to include you as much as possible in deciding what we can do as a community in 2020.

Deputy Leader of Ripley Town Council, Cllr. Ian Fisher said, ‘Several months ago, our Deputy Clerk, Hannah Curzon gave us an idea to do a wool bombing in Ripley Town Centre. It was a brilliant proposal, bit it did need a great deal of work in organising, encouraging and motivating the
community groups. The result has been astonishing. The Market Place and Crossley Park look stunning. Many thanks to all who participated and to Hannah, Linda and those who helped put the wool on the trees.’

May 2019
PictureDeputy Mayor, Councillor Roland Emmas-Williams and Ripley Mayor, Councillor Tony Holmes
New Mayor for Ripley
At the Annual Assembly Meeting of Ripley Town Council on 21st May 2019, the new Ripley Mayor was elected. We are pleased to announce that Cllr. Tony Holmes has taken the role of Mayor of Ripley for one year. The new Deputy Mayor is Cllr. Roland Emmas-Williams.

Cllr. Holmes lives in Ripley with partner and Consort, Ms. Lyndsay Cox. You will probably see him walking his dog around the town and along the Ripley Greenway.

Tony also enjoys taking long walks in Derbyshire, going to the theatre and attending concerts. Tony is an active member of the Ripley Music Festival Committee.



​This will be Cllr. Holmes’ ninth year as a Ripley Town Councillor. He is also a Councillor with Amber Valley Borough Council, with this year being the Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Housing and Public Health.

Cllr. Holmes’ chosen charities to support during his time as Mayor are Rethink Mental Illness (The Croft on Slack Lane in Ripley) and Ripley Hospital League of Friends.
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Cllr. Holmes said, ‘My hopes and aspirations for my term as Mayor will be to support and visit many of the great charities and voluntary groups that our town has. The help that these groups do in assisting vulnerable people and the many voluntary groups that do so much in their spare time, make the Ripley Township a great place to live’.


April 2019
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Thank you to Sea Fish Ripley!
In February this year, the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Paul Lobley held his Charity Dinner at Sea Fish Restaurant on Cromford Road in Ripley. Over £900 was raised for the Mayor's Charity, Derbyshire Carers Association, from food ticket sales and raffle tickets.

Earlier today, the Mayor and his Consort went along to the restaurant to personally thank the owners and their staff for kindly hosting the evening. 

Pictured (left) is Andreas and Panny (right), owners of the restaurant, with Ripley Town Mayor, Councillor Paul Lobley and his Consort, Mrs. Janette Lobley.

Andreas and Panny have a passion to help local groups and charities. On Tuesday evenings in February each year, they donate all their income to local charities, schools and groups. They are a great asset to our community.


March 2019

Exciting times ahead at Greenwich Park for Ripley community
At the Ripley Town Council meeting this evening (Tuesday 19th March 2019), Councillors agreed to pay the remaining £51,625 towards the new community facility at Greenwich Park in the town. This makes the Councils full contribution to the project totalling £206,500.

Councillors also agreed, in principle, to become the charity trustee for the Ripley Recreation Ground Trust.

Leader of Ripley Town Council, Cllr Steve Freeborn said, ‘I’m very pleased we have been able to make the project happen and that we now have a community facility in Ripley for residents to benefit from’.

Deputy Leader, Cllr Ian Fisher said, ‘Ripley Town Council will be hosting a series of activities for young people at this facility over the summer months called the ‘Youth Hub’, including Extreme Wheels on the skate park at Greenwich, music sessions where youngsters can learn how to play an instrument (electric bass, electric guitar, keyboard and ukulele) and other exciting activities’. He added, ‘Please look out for information about the Youth Hub on the Ripley Town Council website, social media channels and posters around the township’.

Mayor of Ripley, Cllr Paul Lobley said, ‘We are looking forward to attending the official opening of the facility this coming Saturday. It will be great to see the venue being celebrated by all the people that have been involved in getting it to the stage it is at now.’

The new high-quality sports facility enables a permanent home base for Ripley Town Football Club and Butterley United Cricket Club. It is available for room hire for events and meetings, with audio visual equipment and a fully functional kitchen and bar.

There is sufficient parking for up to 40 vehicles, including disabled spaces.
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To book this facility for an event, please contact 07796 004000 or email, greenwichparksp@gmail.com
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L - R: Roland Emmas-Williams (Chairman of Greenwich Park Sports Partnership), Deputy Leader, Cllr Ian Fisher and Leader, Cllr Steve Freeborn inside the new facility at Greenwich.

February 2019

Ripley to be wool bombed!

Ripley Town Council are looking for local schools, nurseries, craft groups, Scouts and Guides, individuals and businesses to come together to ‘wool bomb’ Ripley Market Place this May. If we get lots of people interested in taking part, we will also be wool bombing trees on Crossley Park.

Wool bombing is when you cover objects or structures, in this case, trees in Ripley, with decorative knitted or crocheted materials as a form of street art. We would like to encourage schools, groups, businesses and individuals within the wider Ripley Township (Heage, Nether Heage, Bullbridge, Sawmills, Waingroves, Marehay, Street Lane and Lower Hartshay) to take part and wool bomb a tree in Ripley too.

The wool bombs will be officially opened at the Ripley Spring Festival on Sunday 19th May 2019 and will be in situ until 3rd June, after the spring half-term break.

We are looking for schools, groups, businesses or individuals to knit/ crochet whatever you like, for example, animals, insects, flowers, pom-poms and scarves to be placed on the trees. They don’t have to be perfect, just colourful!

We will help you install your creation on the trees on or around Saturday 18th May, in the late afternoon.

Ripley Town Council are working alongside Ripley St. John’s School to lead the project. Deputy Town Clerk, Hannah Curzon said, ‘It is great to be working with local schools and groups to bring some vibrancy and fun to the town this spring. Young people will be learning new skills like knitting and sewing as well as having the excitement of being able to share their creation with the local community’. She added, ‘We hope that people from outside the town will come and have a look at the creations too’.
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If you would like your school, craft group, Scout, Guide group or business to be involved and create a ‘wool bomb’ or if you are a local resident with knitting skills and would like to take part, please get in touch with Hannah by emailing deputyclerk@ripleytowncouncil.gov.uk or by calling 01773 513456 (Mon-Fri 10am until 3pm) or please call in to our office on Grosvenor Road.


January 2019

New Seesaw for Local Park
Ripley Town Council has recently installed a new seesaw for children to play on at the park on Cedar Avenue in Ripley. The new equipment has replaced a trampoline that was there which was unfortunately damaged.

Cllr Ian Fisher, Deputy Leader of Ripley Town Council (pictured) said, ‘Many children will enjoy playing on this new seesaw. It’s colourful and sturdy and we hope it will be enjoyed for many years to come’.

Ripley Town Council also manage the play area on Porterhouse Road in the town. Regular inspections are carried out to ensure that the equipment on both play areas are safe and fit for purpose.
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Cllr Ian Fisher with children on the new seesaw on Cedar Avenue play area.

​January 2019

Greenwick Park opening nears
The new community and sports pavilion building at Greenwich Park is nearing completion!  The building of the new ‘home’ for Butterley United Cricket Club and Ripley Town Football Club has been delayed a little to resolve a construction issue, but it is on track to be open by Easter, if not before.
 
The cricket and football club have joined forces with Ripley Running Club and formed the Greenwich Park Sports Partnership (GPSP) which will manage and maintain the buildings.  As well as generating income from match fees etc, GPSP are looking to hire out a community room that’s big enough for 80 – 100 people sat at tables.  This space will ‘double-up’ as a club room for the sports clubs but it will be available to hire for day time and (some) evening use. 

The project is funded mostly by the Amber Valley Borough and Ripley Town Councils but with a £50,000 contribution from the English Cricket Board too.
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January 2019

Ambergate needs a Pelican Crossing

At the recent Town Council meeting local members Cllr Christine Worth and Cllr Nigel Weaving raised the need for a pelican crossing across the A6 near to the cricket ground and bottom of Newbridge Rd.

​The A6 is a very busy road with fast flowing traffic and school children cross the road here to go for PE lessons. In addition, the only public toilets in Ambergate, for example for rail users and walkers using public footpaths, are behind the petrol station. Ripley Town Council is pleased to support a petition calling for a crossing and will be
pursuing the relevant authorities in the near future.

If you would like to sign the petition in support of a crossing, please click here, http://bit.ly/2DtOurO
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December 2018

Environment Grant supports Bullbridge and Sawmills clean up

Ripley Town Council have presented Bullbridge and Sawmills Area Civic Society (BASA) with litter picking equipment to enable them to hold regular clean ups in their community. Mayor of Ripley, Cllr Paul Lobley presented BASA Secretary, Gill Hirst with high visibility vests, refuse bags, holders and litter pickers at the Ripley Town Council Office on Grosvenor Road in Ripley. The equipment was funded through Ripley Town Council’s Environment Grant.

Gill Hirst said, ‘The Bullbridge and Sawmills Area Civic Society are delighted with the donation of litter picking equipment from Ripley Town Council. This means that we can now set up work parties of volunteer litter pickers and make our attractive part of Derbyshire an even better place to live. We will be litter picking in Ladygrove, Sawmills, Bullbridge, Riversdale and Ridgeway as well as footpaths and the canal towpath and welcome anyone who would like to join us’.

To find out more about the planned litter picks, email:
bullandsaw@outlook.com or visit www.bullandsaw.co.uk

Ripley Town Council would urge more local community groups to access our Environmental Awards Grant so you too can improve your local environment. Please get in touch for more information.
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November 2018

Ripley Town Council announce the 2018 Certificate of Merit award winner.

Heage resident, Mrs. Jean Fardoe has been presented with the Certificate of Merit Award from the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Paul Lobley.

Councillor Lobley gave the presentation of a certificate and bouquet of flowers at the recent Civic Service which was held in St. Luke’s Church in Heage.
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Mrs. Fardoe was nominated for the award by her sister for her dedication and commitment over the past 30 years to charitable work and volunteering in her local community. Since 1986, Mrs. Fardoe has organised annual garden parties at her home in Heage for her family, friends and the local community, to raise money for Action Medical Research. Over the years she has raised over £133,000 for the charity.

Mrs. Fardoe said, ‘When I was a midwife, I delivered a baby boy who had Cerebral Palsy. This spurred me on to raise money for a charity which I felt would research his condition and help future children born with the same and other conditions’. She added, ‘Sadly, the boy passed away at the age of 18 months and this gave me a bigger drive with my charitable efforts’.

Mrs. Fardoe’s first garden party raised around £100 and this year’s event raised £5,000. Her annual garden party is an event supported by an increasing number of volunteer helpers and attended by hundreds of people every year. For the last 20 years, she has also organised a Santa sleigh each Christmas which goes around Heage and Nether Heage and an annual fundraising walk ending at her home for homemade soup and cake.

Councillor Lobley said, ‘It’s an honour to present Jean with this award. Ripley Town Council received several nominations for other outstanding members of the local community but the work that Jean has done and the amount of money she has raised over the years, stood out to the panel of judges.’

Nomination details for the 2019 Ripley Town Council Certificate of Merit will be available next Spring/Summer on the Council website, social media pages and in the newsletter.
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Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Paul Lobley presenting Mrs. Jean Fardoe with the 2018 Ripley Town Council Certificate of Merit Award.

October 2018

Local company sponsors the new Greenwich Park Pavilion fitout
 
Forbo Flooring Systems of Ripley have agreed to provide carpet tiles for the new pavilion, having responded to the appeal for local support for help with fitting out the inside of the building.
 
The new pavilion, which will be managed by a community group – ‘The Greenwich Park Sports Partnership,’ is on schedule for completion in December with the formal opening in early January 2019 following internal fit out. This ambitious and imaginative project is designed to provide first-class facilities for local sports players alongside expanded community use. It is being generously supported by grants from Amber Valley Borough Council, Ripley Town Council, Sport England, the English Cricket Board and through fundraising by the local sports clubs.
 
Chloe Taylor from Forbo Flooring Systems stated “We were pleased to respond to the appeal for local companies to help with fitting out the new pavilion. As a local company, based almost next to Greenwich Park it is important that the community has the very best facilities for sport, recreation and social activities.”
 
The Greenwich Park Sports Partnership would welcome any further assistance of this kind, however small, especially with offers of white goods and community-room furniture. If other local businesses can help in any way, please email greenwichparksp@gmail.com.
 
Alongside new sports changing facilities, the large community room has been specially designed for use by local community or business groups for meetings, training activities, conferences or business seminars and can be booked for daytime or evening use. The concept of the Greenwich Park project is to provide a facility which may be used not only for sport but also to serve as a focal point for the broadest range of community and business activities. Let Greenwich Park Sports Partnership know if you are interested!
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Roland Emmas-Williams, Chair of Greenwich Park Sports Partnership and Chloe Taylor from Forbo Flooring Systems in Ripley.

October 2018

The Fair is coming to town!
The 767th Charter Fair is coming to Ripley on Wednesday 24th October until Monday 29th October 2018.  

As usual, Ripley Market Place and surrounding areas will be jam packed with thrilling rides and amusements. The Town Crier will invite the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Paul Lobley to officially open the Fair at 6pm on Wednesday 24th October.
 
A representative from Ripley Town Council said, ‘We love this time of year. It brings all the local community together to enjoy the amusement that the Fair has to offer. We look forward to seeing people from outside of Ripley attend too’.

On the 25th day of November 1251, by King Henry III, it was known that there is a Charter which allows for all time use of land in the former Manor of Rippeleg (now Ripley Market Place) for a Fair. 

Please note that road closures will be in place in Ripley from 08:00am, Sunday 21st through to midnight on Monday 30th October 2018.
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​October 2018
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Ripley Town Council win Excellence Award for Derbyshire Council of the Year. 

Ripley Town Council were presented with the BHIB Excellence Award for Council of the Year by DALC (Derbyshire Association of Local Councils) at a presentation at Derby County Football Club on Tuesday 9th October 2018.

Ripley Town Council were selected to win this respected award for being proactive in organising and leading projects for all ages across their community.
 
Ripley Town Council aims to promote the Township of Ripley with the magnificent Christmas lights being a major attraction during the festive season.

Over the past year, Ripley Town Council have organised the Big Day Out at Midland Railway – Butterley which was attended by over 1500 people from the township, as well as an Extreme Wheels Roadshows for 15 weeks over the summer, for young people who love skateboarding and BMXing. 

Each year, they put on a Spring Market, Well Dressing and Christmas Market for people to enjoy which are always well attended and supported by the local community. Free children’s rides and entertainment are always provided. Throughout the summer months, Ripley Town Council provide bands on Crossley Park on Sunday afternoons for residents to go along to enjoy and listen to. The Council also organises the official light switch on event on Ripley Market Place.

The award win follows Ripley Town Councils recent office relocation into a more prominent area within the town, where the public have better access to be able to talk to the Council about any concerns they have.

The Council is also committed to helping with environmental improvements within the Ripley Township and have allocated a £5000.00 award for local groups applying for an environmental improvement grant.

Grants to local groups and sports clubs totalling over £18,000 have been given from the Council, back into the local community. Ripley Town Council, in partnership with Amber Valley Borough Council for Greenwich Park Sports Partnership, have donated £200k to rebuilding the sports pavilion and community facility.

DALC Chief Officer, Wendy Amis said, ‘Ripley Town Council are well deserved winners of this prestigious award. The judges were extremely impressed by their commitment to the local community and their many projects, schemes and grants aimed at improving the lives of local people. Many congratulations!’

Ripley Town Council, said, ‘We are thrilled to be recognised in this way. To be judged the best of 251 councils in Derbyshire is something for Ripley to be proud of’.
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Representatives from Ripley Town Council accepting the award: Left to right – Councillor Paul Lobley, Hannah Curzon (Deputy Town Clerk), Councillor Ian Fisher, Linda McCormick (Town Clerk), Councillor Tony Holmes, Councillor Lyndsay Cox and Councillor Steve Freeborn.

September 2018

Mayors date with a Duchess
Ripley Mayor, Councillor Paul Lobley and his Consort, Mrs. Lobley were invited on 9th September 2018 to the West Shed Museum at Midland Railway - Butterley, the the roll out of the steam locomotive 6233 'Duchess of Sutherland', following completion of her recent major overhaul.

Councillor Lobley said, 'We spent almost two hours there and had the pleasure of climbing onto the footplate of the Duchess of Sutherland and having a chat to the driver. We were given a personal guided tour of the Shed by one of the Patrons, who unlocked the Royal coach and showed us around. My Consort commented that it looked a bit dusty, so he asked if we wanted to go back another time and help clean it'.
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September 2018

Garden and Allotment Winners 2018 presentation


At the September council meeting, the winners of this competition were presented with their prizes by the Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Paul Lobley and Richard Watson from Central England Cooperative, who kindly donated gift vouchers as prizes.

Unfortunately, the winner of the Best Kept Allotment, Brian George of Heage Road Allotment and Mr. Glover who came third place in the same category, were unable to attend. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to the Co-op for their continuous support of this competition.


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September 2018

Successful summer of Extreme Wheels in Ripley


​Wednesday 12th September saw Ripley host its second Skatejam!

Since June 2018, we have been holding Extreme Wheels Roadshows on Greenwich Park in Ripley for young people over the age of 11 to enjoy on Wednesday evenings.

The last session, the Skate Jam was attended by around 40 young people, along with many spectators. They were shown demonstrations from Pro Skaters and took part in competitions to win vouchers to Rollersnakes in Derby. All participants were treated to a free drink and ice-cream and fruit was kindly donated by Sainsburys in Ripley.

Thank you to all the talented young people that attended the Extreme Wheels Roadshow each week. We received many positive comments from them.

One said, 'Thank you so much Ripley Town Council for doing something good for our stakepark community. You really made the last several
​weeks a good one for everyone involved'.
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​August 2018

Ripley Town Council grant supports Waingroves clean up


Ripley Town Council have presented Waingroves Community Association with litter picking equipment to enable them to have regular clean ups in their village.

Mayor of Ripley, Councillor Paul Lobley presented Waingroves Community Association Member and Amber Valley Borough Councillor Isobel Harry with high visibility vests, refuse bags and holders and litter pickers at the new Ripley Town Council Office on Grosvenor Road in Ripley.

The equipment was funded through Ripley Town Council’s Environment Grant.

​Councillor Isobel Harry said, ‘The community of Waingroves is thriving and forward thinking. The next step is to be environmentally friendly. We thank Ripley Town Council for donating this equipment for our monthly litter pick around the village. Residents who would like to volunteer to help, can contact me on 01773 742672 for more information or look out for posters around the village’.
 
Ripley Town Council have an Environmental Action Plan for the township. They would urge more local community groups to access their Environmental Awards Grant so they too can improve their local environment.
 
There are no pre-determined ideas as to what the funding could be used for – it is for the group making an application to decide what it wants to do. The group must be based in Ripley or within the wider township which includes Ambergate, Heage, Nether Heage, Marehay, Waingroves, Street Lane, Bullbridge, Sawmills and Lower Hartshay.  For example, it could be a planting scheme, or to purchase litter-picking equipment, or to set-up bat boxes – the Council is open to all environmentally focussed ideas.
  1. The project to be funded must assist or complement the Council’s Environmental Action Plan.
  2. The group or organisation applying must have a bank account so that the award can be paid to it.
  3. The scheme must be carried out, and the grant awarded spent by 31st March 2019 (unless agreed with the Council).
  4. Evidence of the costs of the scheme must be provided.
There are no application forms.  Simply write to the Clerk at Ripley Town Council via email (townclerk@ripleytowncouncil.gov.uk)  detailing what it is you want to do, and providing evidence of the costs. ​
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Ripley Mayor, Councillor Paul Lobley presenting Isobel Harry from Waingroves Community Association with litter picking equipment.

July 2018

Ripley Big Day Out was a huge success!


Ripley Town Council staged yet another successful free event for the local community on 11th July 2018. Their annual Big Day Out at Midland Railway – Butterley was attend by many people of all ages.

They saw babes in arms, toddlers, children and adults (and a few dogs) enjoy the festivities. The sun came out and so did the wonderful mums, dads, grandparents and children of our local community.

Visitors were welcomed by the Town Mayor, Cllr. Paul Lobely and his Consort, Mrs. Lobley at Butterley station where they were treated to the wonderful sound of a barrel organ playing.

They caught the train to Swanwick Junction where they were entertained by magician, The Great Lorenzo, Punch and Judy, a balloon artist, fairground rides, a face painter and a double decker bus which housed a soft play area for children.

The children loved being greeted by Chase from Paw Patrol and Minnie Mouse. The afternoon brought musical delights from local band, ‘Creatures of Habit’ who indulged visitors in some rock and roll music.
Reverend John Wigram from All Saints Church in Ripley led a service in St. Saviour Church at the station which was well attended.

Alfreton WI were in attendance selling homemade jams and crafts. Friends of Cromford Canal came along as did the Pentrich and South Wingfield Revolution Group to display information about their projects.

Amber Valley Movie Makers were there filming the event from both land and sky with a drone and showing their DVDs of local history and attractions.

One visitor said, ‘Wow! What a fab morning we’ve had. Thank you so much for arranging this free event and a massive thank you to everyone involved. My daughter loved every minute. She had her first train ride, loved watching the model trains, had her arm painted and went on various rides. She also had a lovely lunch and didn’t want to leave. It’s a great idea Ripley Town Council’.
 
Event Organiser, Councillor Ian Fisher said,  ‘I was absolutely  thrilled to see the Swanwick station so busy, and to see all the smiling toddlers and hearing their laughter was a delight. Organising such a day involves a lot of hard work by the Councillors, the Clerk and the Deputy Clerk, and it did result in such a very successful event. If anyone missed the Big Day Out they did miss a wonderful day. Ripley Town Council wanted to promote the Town and the Railway Centre and we are really happy that we  achieved that. Big thanks to everyone who attended and to all the staff at Butterley, the exhibitors and to Rev. Wigram’.​


May 2018
EXCITING PROGRAMME OF EXTREME WHEELS SLAMMING ITS WAY TO RIPLEY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE THIS SUMMER.
 
A free, action-packed summer is in store for the young people of the Ripley Township, courtesy of Ripley Town Council.

Extreme Wheels are once again coming along to the town to hold exciting skateboarding and BMX sessions on Greenwich Skate Park on Nottingham Road for young people aged from 11 years.

Sessions will run weekly from Wednesday 6th June 2018 for 15 weeks, where people can have a go at skate boarding, scooters and riding BMX bikes and learn tricks like the professionals – and it’s all free of charge. If you already have a bike, scooter or skateboard and safety wear, you can use that if it is fit for purpose, otherwise equipment and helmets will be provided.

The sessions lead up to the finale event on Wednesday 12th September 2018 – the Skate Jam show-stopping event. There will be demonstrations from pro-riders, mini competitions, freeriding, MC shows and free give-aways. The Show will be great for spectators too as it will showcase the exciting and attention-grabbing displays that the young people have put together.

Experienced staff will be present throughout all the sessions to ensure a safe but fun environment. 

Competitions will be organised throughout the activities, providing all participants with new and challenging experiences.
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If you know someone who would like to come along and take part at any of the sessions, please turn up at the Skate Park on Greenwich Recreation Ground, near Sainsburys in Ripley Wednesday evenings, 6-8pm starting on 6th June 2018 through to 12th September 2018.
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May 2018
NEW MAYOR AND DEPUTY MAYOR FOR RIPLEY

On Tuesday 15th May 2018, the new Mayor of Ripley was announced. Councillor Paul Lobley took over the post from Councillor Mrs. Sheila Emmas-Williams at the Annual General Meeting of Ripley Town Council. The new Deputy Mayor is Councillor Michael Missett. Both Councillors will be in post until May 2019, when new representatives will be announced. 

May 2018
Ceremony marks launch for new pavilion construction

The Greenwich Park Sports Partnership group dedicated to reviving Ripley’s Greenwich Park as a first-class sports facility has successfully raised the funding required to build a new community sports pavilion on the park. With the group having received planning permission and completed a competitive tender process, building works are due to commence as early as June. To mark this important milestone the Partnership held a ground-breaking ceremony on Saturday 12 May, with representatives from all partners including the Mayor of Amber Valley – Cllr David Wilson and Mayor of Ripley Town Council – Cllr Mrs Sheila Emmas-Williams who completed the ceremonial cutting of the turf where the new pavilion will be built.


Cllr Chris Short, Amber Valley Borough Council Cabinet Member for the Environment who also attended the ceremony stated: “These improvements to Greenwich Park have been a priority for the Borough Council for many years and it is fantastic news that we are now at the point where building works can commence.”

In one of her last engagements as the Mayor of Ripley Town Council, Cllr Mrs Sheila Emmas-Williams commented: “I am extremely proud that Ripley Town Council is helping to deliver the project with all the other partners, and I look forward to the first community event to be held in the new building. The facilities will be an asset for the whole of Ripley.”

The appointed contractor for the build is Tamworth-based company A&S Enterprises who have been involved with similar community projects locally. Subject to final discussions with A&S, building works are due to commence in June starting with the demolition of the old changing rooms. The new facilities will  take around 28 weeks to complete so should be open by Christmas or early in the new year.

The building is being funded in partnership by Amber Valley Borough Council, Ripley Town Council, Sport England, and the Duke of Devonshire’s Trust with other grant applications also being considered. The local cricket and football clubs have also contributed £10,000 to the scheme. The single-story building will contain a large multi-purpose community club room with views over both the cricket and football pitches, kitchen/bar area, two team changing rooms and a covered veranda overlooking the cricket pitch.

Glyn Hubbard, secretary of the Greenwich Park Sports Partnership is keen to hear from any organisations and groups who may want to hire the new clubroom, but went on to say: “The group have not ceased their fundraising efforts as further capital is needed to complete the fit-out inside the building and deliver the wider vision for the park, including a footpath around the outside of the playing pitches. We are currently competing against 9 other community organisations from around the country to win a share of £10,000 from the Stoves Community Kitchens competition. The money is distributed to the groups who collect the most votes on the Community Kitchens website and I am asking everyone to vote for this project by simply clicking on the link below and voting for Greenwich Park”


https://www.stoves.co.uk/community-kitchen-voting-2018/greenwich-park-sports-partnership/

Any local businesses, clubs or organisations interested in supporting this project should contact the partnership at greenwichparksp@gmail.com

Further information on the Greenwich Park Sports Partnership is available on our social media pages:

Twitter: @GreenwichParkSP (https://twitter.com/greenwichparksp/)

Facebook: Greenwich Park Sports Partnership (https://www.facebook.com/greenwichparksp/)

Pictured: The Mayor of Amber Valley, Cllr David Wilson, and Mayor of Ripley Town Council, Cllr Sheila Emmas-Williams undertaking the ground breaking ceremony along with local councillors and members of the cricket, football and running clubs.
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Here is what the new Pavillion will look like:
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​FEEL CONFIDENT WITH A DERBYSHIRE TRUSTED TRADER
Finding a company that you can trust to do some work for you can be a bit daunting – how can you be sure that you won’t get ripped off? What if things go wrong? How do you choose between lots of different companies? These sorts of dilemmas were a driving force behind the setting up by Derbyshire County Council of the Trusted Trader scheme to help local people find traders and businesses that do a good job at a fair price and provide good customer service.
 
That was back in 2008 and the popular scheme has gone from strength to strength. These days there are nearly 17,000 searches each month on the Trusted Trader website, www.derbyshire.gov.uk/tt by people looking for reliable companies to use. Another ringing endorsement for the scheme was a recent survey which gathered feedback from more than 16,000 people who had used a Trusted Trader and an impressive 94% said they were very satisfied with the service they received.
 
So people can have lots of confidence when employing one of the 1,200 traders who are part of the scheme. In the very unlikely event of someone having a problem with one of the traders then help is at hand. Derbyshire County Council trading standards officers can get involved in any queries involving Trusted Traders and seek to resolve them
 
The scheme particularly helps to protect older and vulnerable adults by making it easier for them to use Trusted Traders rather than rogue traders who typically cold-call and use high pressure sales techniques.  A recent development has been the inclusion of Financial Advisors who specialise in providing financial advice for people in later life and can help with matters like care fees, pensions and investments.
 
Find out more about all aspects of Trusted Trader at  www.derbyshire.gov.uk/tt or call 01629 536148. Enquiries are also welcome from businesses interested in signing up to the scheme – membership brings lots of benefits and costs only £70 - £100 per year. 
Ripley Big Day Out was a huge success!

Ripley Town Council staged yet another successful free event for the local community on 11th July 2018. Their annual Big Day Out at Midland Railway – Butterley was attend by many people of all ages.

They saw babes in arms, toddlers, children and adults (and a few dogs) enjoy the festivities. The sun came out and so did the wonderful mums, dads, grandparents and children of our local community.

Visitors were welcomed by the Town Mayor, Cllr. Paul Lobely and his Consort, Mrs. Lobley at Butterley station where they were treated to the wonderful sound of a barrel organ playing.

They caught the train to Swanwick Junction where they were entertained by magician, The Great Lorenzo, Punch and Judy, a balloon artist, fairground rides, a face painter and a double decker bus which housed a soft play area for children.

The children loved being greeted by Chase from Paw Patrol and Minnie Mouse. The afternoon brought musical delights from local band, ‘Creatures of Habit’ who indulged visitors in some rock and roll music.
Reverend John Wigram from All Saints Church in Ripley led a service in St. Saviour Church at the station which was well attended.

Alfreton WI were in attendance selling homemade jams and crafts. Friends of Cromford Canal came along as did the Pentrich and South Wingfield Revolution Group to display information about their projects.

Amber Valley Movie Makers were there filming the event from both land and sky with a drone and showing their DVDs of local history and attractions.

One visitor said, ‘Wow! What a fab morning we’ve had. Thank you so much for arranging this free event and a massive thank you to everyone involved. My daughter loved every minute. She had her first train ride, loved watching the model trains, had her arm painted and went on various rides. She also had a lovely lunch and didn’t want to leave. It’s a great idea Ripley Town Council’.
 
Event Organiser, Councillor Ian Fisher said,  ‘I was absolutely  thrilled to see the Swanwick station so busy, and to see all the smiling toddlers and hearing their laughter was a delight. Organising such a day involves a lot of hard work by the Councillors, the Clerk and the Deputy Clerk, and it did result in such a very successful event. If anyone missed the Big Day Out they did miss a wonderful day. Ripley Town Council wanted to promote the Town and the Railway Centre and we are really happy that we  achieved that. Big thanks to everyone who attended and to all the staff at Butterley, the exhibitors and to Rev. Wigram’.

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NEW PLAY EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON CEDAR AVENUE PLAY AREA THANKS TO TESCO 'BAGS OF HELP' CAMPAIGN
Ripley Town Council is delighted to confirm that thanks to the Tesco 'Bags of Help' campaign, we can now offer brand new socially inclusive play on Cedar Avenue play area. The new roundabout is specially designed so that it can be used by those with limited mobility and able bodies children alike, encouraging social interaction across the board. Also installed is a brand new sunken trampoline which is also accessible to all. 
The Tesco 'Bags of Help' campaign takes thousands of community projects into account when deciding whom to award grants to. All revenue is generated from the sale of plastic carrier bags in store. Ripley Town Council came second out of approx. 5000 applicants to be awarded £10,000 for improvements to Cedar Avenue. 

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FOUR NEW BUS SHELTERS PROVIDED WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP
​Four new bus shelters have been installed within the township by Ripley Town Council in conjunction with Derbyshire County Council, with two more planned for installation in the very near future. Locations of the new shelters are; Old Road – Heage,  Derby Road – Ambergate, Ripley Road – Sawmills & Riversdale – Ambergate (pictured).


Discover the rich industrial history of Ripley.
A new guide has been published detailing an easy two mile walk around the Butterley area taking in all the key landmarks of the industrial history of Ripley. Download it for free here. Another walk has been prepared to trace the establishment of Ripley Co-operative Society from its humble beginnings on Butterley Hill to its domination of Ripley Town centre in the early 20th century, which can be found here. 


Ripley Town Council
6, Grosvenor Road
Ripley
Derbyshire
DE5 3JF
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