Voice Magazines - Alfreton & Villages Edition - April 2025
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Hello Fellow Minecrafters!
This month, we’re taking you all into the blocky world of Minecraft. With the film release and the fact that this is one of the most successful games of all time, we couldn’t ignore the theme for this month but in our true style, we’ve built our own characters and brought the Easter feels to it as well, it is “a world where anything is possible”, after all!
So, we’ve made this month into an Easter Eggstravaganza and we’ve got some lovely giveaways from some fabulous local companies! We’ve got S42 Café giving away a grazing board and a glass of fizz for 2, family tickets for a visit to Heights of Abraham, Midland Railway & Crich Tramway Museum and £20 off camping/events at Golden Valley Caravan Park! We are also giving away a Cadbury Ultimate Easter Egg Chocolate Basket for one lucky winner too! As I said at Christmas, you’ve got to be in it to win it, so check out our centre pages and send us your answers!
Myself and Mr Emily are actually low level gamers, we love everything from platformers and kart racers to RPG’s and everything in-between, we have played since our Uni days but we’ve never partaken in Minecraft, it was always SIMS back in our day! The Nieces and Nephews are partial to these types of games though and I’m definitely not adverse to playing, given enough time. I love the idea that it is completely down to your imagination and I think we need more of that, in today’s world more than ever!
It’s been quite a busy month in our house, I feel like we’ve barely been home! Anyway, based on some of the activities I have undertaken, here are some burning questions… if you want to send us some answers over, always happy to discuss!!
1. Why do Easter Eggs taste better than ‘normal’ chocolate?
2. If heat pads work so well, why has nobody invested in a full heat suit? (A sauna doesn’t count!)
3. If Bingo is supposed to be relaxing, why don’t they shout the numbers slower?
4. As mini-golf and golf are essentially the same, why isn’t Tiger Woods (insert pro golfer name) a World Champion of Mini Golf with an unbeaten score?
5. If Tomatoes are fruit, who classified it as such and why don’t we have it in a fruit salad?
6. So, scientists discovered that we evolved through genetic changes to our DNA, then why have I evolved so that Coriander tastes like washing up liquid?!
As always, I really hope you have a fabulous Easter, whatever your plans. Happy Reading, Emily x
Minecraft: A Grand Adventure in Blocks
When the team asked me to write about Minecraft for this month’s edition, I confessed I was more than a little worried. I’d heard of it – but genuinely had absolutely NO idea what it was. Unlike my other half, I am no “gamer” – well, apart from Wordle and a gloriously infuriating “bottle filling” game on my phone!
So, I did what I always do: I turned to “Mr Google” …and was directed to the official Minecraft website.
This is how the game is described: Minecraft is a game made up of blocks, creatures, and community. You can survive the night or build a work of art – the choice is all yours. Still no clue? Me neither!
So I read on and discovered that Minecraft can be played however you like – that is, there are no set goals, no set in stone missions to complete. This is why it’s sometimes called a “sandbox game” – there are lots of things for you to do and lots of ways that you can play. If you like being creative, you can use the blocks to build things from your imagination. If you feel brave, you can explore the world and face challenges. Blocks can be broken, created, and placed to reshape the landscape, or used to build fantastical creations straight from your imagination. You can even share your creations with other players or play in community worlds.
OK…so what I am deducing is that Minecraft is akin to online Lego building, sprinkled with a vast amount of imagination and, dare I say it… ”world building”, and here’s where it gets really interesting. In a world where AI-generated games and hyper-realistic graphics are the norm, this simple, blocky game has somehow maintained a massive
audience across all age groups. Why? Because of its very simplicity. Minecraft gives the players’ minds a break from the overload of fast-paced, complex games and lets them build something entirely their own.
It’s creativity at its purest.
And let’s not forget Minecraft’s impact outside the game itself. It was one of the first games to become a YouTube sensation, with millions of people tuning in to watch others build their own worlds. This phenomenon then paved the way for a whole new genre of online content – people streaming themselves playing games, unboxing products, and sharing their hobbies. Minecraft was a pioneer, not just in gaming but in online entertainment.
Absolute respect to anyone who regularly plays and enjoys Minecraft. From what I’ve gathered, it’s certainly less aggressive and far more creative than many computer games, and that has to be a good thing.
Having been around since 2011, Minecraft obviously isn’t going anywhere. It’s a simple game with an extraordinary impact – and that’s something worth celebrating. So, play on all you fans, and enjoy your blocky worlds, and maybe, just maybe, one day I’ll have a go myself – or perhaps encourage my eldest grandson to give it a try!
Welcome to Hair & Beauty at Slimming World a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ salon experience based in Alfreton and open to all
Our skilled, friendly and experienced team are ready to pamper you from head to toe while you relax in total comfort. With free on-site parking, a deluxe complimentary drinks menu and a luxurious atmosphere, we’ll make sure you leave us looking and feeling fabulous.
Are you ready for prom 2025?
Whether it’s you, a friend, your teenager, a sibling… it’s a night to remember forever. We’re here to help, with all the Prom glam essentials:
Spray-tans
Lash extensions
Gel or acrylic nails
Brow care: laminations or tint and wax
Hairstyling: Up-do’s, curls, you name it – we can do it!
Make-up appointments
Quote ‘Voice’ to book your appointment
Did you know at our salon, we have hair specialists who are able to provide advice and solutions around hair loss and thinning? Around 50% of the population will deal with hair loss at some point in their lives, so we hope we can help you with any concerns you may have! Through the right products and treatments, we could help you achieve a healthier scalp, leading to thicker, fuller hair.
For more information on our full range of services or to book, call 01773 546 382 or visit hair-and-beauty-salon.co.uk
We stock industry-leading hair care and beauty products
1 Bringing fourth, say, not fifth (9) 7 Escaped form a war, any old how (3,4) 13 Enlarge point in order to upsell (5,2) 18 Actively resist an attempt at retaliation (5,4)
Pitcherwits® are crossword puzzles where some of the clues are in pictures. Sound easy? It’s not called “Pit-your-wits” for nothing!
The mixture of cryptic and picture clues, combined with Professor Rebus’ unique sense of humour, will keep you entertained for hours.
Across
5 Come across motor in Monte Carlo (3)
6 Jewels, bedecking woolly one (3)
10 The lady’s a bit crushed (3)
11 No saints could be in such states (7)
12 Add up then drink, right? (3)
16 Meadow owned by Local Education Authority? (3)
17 A bit ignorant (and not the answer!) (3)
2 Ended in poverty (4)
3 Protocol accepted generally for having a drink (4)
8 Dialogue log-off becomes final farewell (5)
14 How the rain can whip you? (4)
15 Prayer for some simple action (4)
1 Just being there will do instead of gifts, say (8)
For thinking about a retreat to the gym! (4,6) 5 Takes from list all the kisses backstage (7,3)
Newt to bask in style on Jordan’s l.h.s. (8)
The Caregiving Journey CIC
Every
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Burnout.
Great service at a very affordable cost. We needed to replace our lounge carpet but were daunted by the prospect of having to move the suite, sideboard, bookcase and tv as they are too heavy for us and we have nowhere to move them to while the old carpet was removed and the new one fitted. Then I remembered seeing an advert in one of our local free magazines which said that T Nutt offered a service of removing the old carpet, moving furniture as necessary and fitting the new carpet before returning the furniture to its correct place - this seemed perfect for us so we paid them a visit. From our first visit to paying the bill on completion it was a real pleasure dealing with them. They have a good range of carpets, provide valuable advice based on their years of experience and arranged the supply and fitting on the date we requested. Their quote (a very competitive one) was a single price for everything with a promise of no added extras - they delivered to it. We were completely satisfied and would have no hesitation in recommending them.
City Breaks: The Perfect Short Escape
A city break is the ideal getaway—short, exciting, and packed with adventure! Whether you love history, shopping, fine dining, or simply soaking up a new atmosphere, a few days in a vibrant city can refresh and inspire you.
With great transport links, you can be exploring world-class museums, stunning architecture, and buzzing nightlife in no time. Fancy a foodie adventure? Indulge in gourmet dining, street markets, or rooftop cocktails with breathtaking views. Travelling light and stress-free, you can make the most of every moment—whether it’s wandering historic streets, shopping in designer boutiques, or discovering hidden gems.
Why wait for a long holiday? A city break is the perfect way to recharge and experience something new. Let’s find the perfect destination for you. Visit my webpage or socials to find out more.
Slimming World Recipe
Spanish-style chicken and rice
Method:
1. Spray a large, deep, non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and put it over a medium-high heat (use a pan you can cover with some sort of lid). Add the chicken and brown all over for 5-6 minutes, then set aside on a plate.
2. Tip the onion into the pan along with 3 tbsp stock, then cover and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft. Remove the lid and add the garlic, paprika and chilli and cook for 1 minute, stirring often. Stir in the tomatoes, turmeric, the remaining stock and a little salt, then bring to the boil.
WEDNESDAY MORNING 9am
PALMER MOREWOOD
MEMORIAL CLUB 36 Hall St, Alfreton, DE55 7BU
Tel : Sue: 07738 118 130
THURSDAY EVENING 5.30pm CHRIST THE KING, CHURCH HALL Nottingham Rd, Alfreton, DE55 7GL
One pan dishes are always a win and this paella style recipe combines loads of flavour with satisfying simplicity.
3. Sprinkle the rice evenly around the pan and add the chicken, then simmer vigorously over a medium heat for 6 minutes. Scatter the red peppers on top of the rice and shake the pan to mix them in slightly, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 12 minutes, or until all the stock has been absorbed.
4. Cover the pan, turn off the heat and leave for 10 minutes before serving (this will help unstick any rice on the bottom of the pan). Top with the chopped parsley and sprigs, then serve with the lemon wedges for squeezing over.
Ingredients:
• Low-calorie cooking spray
• 600g skinless and boneless chicken thighs, visible fat removed, cut into large chunks
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 750ml boiling chicken stock
• 6 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Large pinch dried chilli flakes
• 400g can chopped tomatoes
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• 300g dried paella rice
• 300g roasted red peppers in brine from a jar, cut into thin strips
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A FUN, SOCIAL, AND RELAXING WAY TO STAY ACTIVE? COME AND DISCOVER THE JOY OF LAWN BOWLS AT THE PHOENIX BOWLS CLUB IN SOMERCOTES.
WHY LAWN BOWLS?
Perfect for all skill levels – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player.
A great way to stay active and improve balance, coordination, and flexibility.
Friendly, welcoming community of members aged 20-90
Regular social roll-ups.
Enjoy beautiful outdoor play on a well-maintained flat green.
WHAT DO WE OFFER:
Trial Session: Come along and give us a try!
Coaching Available: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve.
Accessible Facilities: Easy-to-access with parking.
If you’re looking for friendly competition or a relaxing afternoon of roll-ups there’s a spot for you at our club.
COME AND ROLL WITH US!
JOIN THE PHOENIX BOWLS CLUB TODAY AND BECOME PART OF OUR VIBRANT, ACTIVE COMMUNITY!
AMBER VALLEY RUGBY CLUB
VALLEY RUGBY CLUB ROUND - UP
The men’s team put in a brilliant performance on March 8th, securing a 24-19 victory against Matlock 2s RUFC. With fantastic teamwork and some outstanding tries, they showed true determination to come out on top. The team spirit was strong both on the pitch and in the clubhouse, where celebrations reflected the camaraderie that makes this squad so special.
It’s been a long time coming, but Valley Ladies finally secured their first two wins of the season in a tense league and cup double-header against Ashfield RUFC With sheer determination, they scored in the final play of the game to take the victory. This result all but guarantees their league position and highlights the effort put in behind the scenes.
A huge thanks to Lee Bown at Amber Valley MMA Gym for providing training space during frozen - pitch weeks. Our Minis & Juniors continue to thrive, with young players developing their skills every week. We’re always on the lookout for new players and coaches across all age groups - whether you’re experienced or completely new to the game, there’s a place for you at the club. Get in touch and be part of something special!
Interested in having a try call Stuart on 07966 867 946 for the men, Gareth 07595 520 537 for the ladies and Paul 07790 403 043 for the Minis and Juniors.
More than just a club, we are the #ValleyFamily. You can visit our website www.ambervalleyrfc.co.uk
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Hey, I’m Danielle. I’ve been working for Chris at Ultimate Health & Fitness for the last 6 years. With over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry as a qualified Level 3 Personal Trainer and pre-postnatal specialist, I am profoundly driven and dedicated to helping people achieve their goals.
I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients over the years — from busy professionals balancing demanding jobs to mothers navigating family commitments — developing tailored strategies that make fitness a seamless part of everyday life. My approach is grounded in overcoming obstacles, whether they be injuries, illnesses, or time constraints, and I take pride in helping each individual discover a sustainable path to their personal health journey.
I’ve not only dedicated my career to helping others achieve their goals, but I’ve also actively participated in various athletic challenges myself. Ranging from long distance running to strength & conditioning competitions. My biggest passion is hiking in the great outdoors especially if I can get my two boys to join in with me. I am deeply passionate about the connection between health, nutrition, and mental wellness. Having personally faced and navigated postnatal depression and anxiety disorder, I understand first-hand how a balanced diet and regular exercise can nurture both physical and mental health and it’s been the best medicine I’ve ever come across thus far!
My goal is to help as many people as I can thrive physically and mentally. Whether you prefer the energy of a gym environment, the tranquillity of a park, or the comfort of your own home, I can adapt to create the perfect training experience for you.
If you have any questions, need more information, or are interested in working together, don’t hesitate to reach out.
TOP TIP: TO MAKE YOUR GYM JOURNEY EASIER NOBODY’S WATCHING YOU
If you think everyone’s staring at you, let me be blunt - they’re not. Nearly everyone is focused on themselves. And even if someone did glance your way, so what? You’re here to do your thing. Own it.
Celebrating 20 Years of Gliderobes: A Legacy of Quality and Craftsmanship
This year, we’re thrilled to celebrate 20 incredible years of Gliderobes, designing and manufacturing made-to-measure sliding wardrobes and bedroom furniture right here in the UK. Over the past two decades, we’ve had the privilege of transforming homes across the country, delivering bespoke storage solutions that perfectly balance functionality and style.
From our humble beginnings, we’ve grown into a trusted name in the industry, known for our commitment to quality and personalised customer service Every wardrobe we create is crafted with care and tailored to meet our customers’ unique needs, ensuring their spaces are not only organised but also aesthetically stunning
One of the things we’re most proud of is the journey we’ve taken with our customers Whether it’s creating sleek wardrobes for new-build homes or helping families maximise storage in older properties, every project has been a chance to bring visions to life.
Over the last 20 years, can you imagine how many miles of sliding wardrobe tracks we’ve sold? We’re talking hundreds, maybe even thousands of miles enough to stretch across the UK and beyond! That’s a lot of perfectly gliding doors!
As we look to the future, our mission remains the same: to provide quality, custom-built furniture at factory-direct prices here in the UK. Helping homeowners make the most of their spaces We’re incredibly grateful to all our customers for trusting us with their homes and for being part of our journey
Here’s to the next 20 years of innovation, craftsmanship, and creating beautiful, functional spaces together!
EasterGiveaway
To celebrate Easter we have continued our fun Minecraft theme to bring you this eggstra special 4-page Easter giveaway! So, get puzzling and send in you answers to be in with a chance of winning one of our fabulous prizes!
MINEVERSE EASTER WORDSEARCH
THE TEAM HERE AT VOICE MAGAZINES ARE GIVING AWAY
A CADBURY ULTIMATE EASTER EGG CHOCOLATE BASKET
Simply complete the wordsearch to find which of the items is missing from the grid. Then follow the instructions below to enter.
To enter, email the missing item, which is NOT in the wordsearch to community@voicemagazines.
co.uk Please ensure you give your full name, address and telephone number so all winners can be notified. Closing date – 21st April 2025. Prizes are to be collected from Voice Magazines Ltd offices at 81 High Street, South Normanton, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 2BP.
The Voice Magazines Team have been transported into the Mineverse for this puzzle. We’re having a great time hanging out with our cube shaped pals but can you spot the 10 differences between the two pictures?
We have some fabulous prizes to give away from some of our very generous local businesses which can be seen on the next page! If you want to enter the prize draw to be in with a chance of winning one of these prizes simply follow the instructions below:
FAMILY DAY OUT SPOT THE DIFFERENCE ON OUR TEAM DAY OUT SPOT 10 DIFFERENCES
To enter the FAMILY DAY OUT PRIZE DRAW, email A PHOTO OF PICTURE No: 2, INDICATING WHERE YOU THINK THERE IS A DIFFERENCE, to community@voicemagazines.co.uk. Please ensure you give your full name, address and telephone number so all winners can be notified. Closing date – 21st April 2025. Prizes are to be collected from Voice Magazines Ltd offices at 81 High Street, South Normanton, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 2BP. 1
WIN A FAMILY TICKET
FOR 2 ADULTS & UP TO 2 CHILDREN
Ride iconic cable cars over Derwent Valley to a historic hilltop park. Explore fascinating caves, scenic woodlands, and uncover hidden history!
WIN A FAMILY TICKET FOR 2 ADULTS & UP TO 3 CHILDREN
Step back in time with vintage tram rides, scenic trails, a cozy café, pub, play areas, exciting events, and more fun!
WIN A FAMILY TICKET FOR 2 ADULTS & UP TO 3 CHILDREN
Enjoy heritage train rides, a railway museum, signal box, Victorian church, model railways, shops, playground, country park, and free parking!
£20 VOUCHER (TO BE USED FOR ONSITE CAMPING/ EVENTS)
Golden Valley Caravan & Camping Park offers a peaceful Derbyshire retreat, surrounded by historic woodlands and the scenic Cromford Canal.
BETWEEN THE TWO PICTURES
2
FLAKES EGGVENTURES IN THE MINEVERSE
EGG DYEING & CRAFTING
Gather supplies for dyeing eggs, try natural dyes or paint the eggs with intricate designs for a personal touch. You can also make Easter crafts, like bunny masks or wreaths, to entertain guests or kids.
PLAN EASTER EGG HUNTS EARLY
Organise a scavenger hunt or Easter egg hunt for kids. Choose a location, prepare the eggs (plastic or real), and hide them strategically. For extra fun, use clues or riddles to guide the search.
CATCH FLAKE!
Flake has run away again and made it through the maze....! Which route, A, B or C, takes one of our Voice team to Flake through the maze!
GOOD LUCK!
To enter the draw for the and glass of fizz for 2 to community@voicemagazines.co.uk ensure you give your full name, address and telephone number so all winners can be notified. Closing date – 21st April 2025. Prizes are to be collected from Voice Magazines Ltd offices at 81 High Street, South Normanton, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 2BP. You must be aged 18 or over to enter.
FLAKE
SAYS STAY SAFE WITH CHOCOLATE
I can’t eat chocolate, please don’t leave it lying around, it is poisonous to me.
Prepare Easter baskets filled with chocolates, candies, small toys, and personal items. You can personalise them with the recipient’s favourite treats or themes.
DECORATE WITH SPRING THEMES EASTERCREATEBASKETS
S42 Cafe is a cozy gem located at 184A Queen Victoria Road, Tupton. Serving high quality, locally sourced produce with a smile and offering specialty coffee, tea, treats, breakfast, brunch and lunch.
Open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM WIN! A GRAZE BOARD & A GLASS OF FIZZ FOR 2 AT S42 CAFE
Use pastel colors for Easter decorations, such as table settings, floral arrangements, and even painted eggs. You can also make bunny ears, spring flowers, and chicks part of your décor.
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All Around the Shire
SUNDAY TEATIMES
One of the warm memories I have is having family tea on a Sunday afternoon. Sandwiches were always involved. Probably spread with meat or fish paste and always white, sliced bread. Mother’s pride had been a staple since before the war.
We would also have tinned fruit, usually fruit cocktail in heavy syrup, with evaporated milk. On special occasions we might have Nestle tinned cream instead.
If we had family for tea, we might have a little ham salad with lettuce, tomato, and a dish of cucumber and onion in vinegar. Do you remember Heinz tinned vegetable salad? “Bought cake” by Mr Kipling became available in the 1960s. Cherry Bakewell and jam tarts didn’t last long in our house.
Children might have vividly coloured pop which had been delivered by Corona “the pop man”. Dandelion and Burdock and Cream Soda were my favourites.
Every family had their own Sunday traditions. What were yours?
Janet and Paul Barrass are All Around the Shire. Find us on or email: oldfield512@btinternet.com for more information.
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Alfreton & District Heritage Trust
APRIL 2025
THE WANDERER
Born on the 20th of March 1859 in Rustock, Worcestershire, John (Jack) Baynton, was one of the founders of Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club, for which he played for twelve years. In addition, he had held office at different periods as Captain, Secretary and Treasurer.
Jack was only one year old when his parents took over Lodge Farm, Goldthorn Hill, Wolverhampton. He later attended St. Luke’s School, where he and other boys were taught the game of football by Mr. John Brodie, a teacher at the school. With Mr. Brodie, he formed St. Luke’s F.C. in 1877 and they played on a field at his parent’s farm. Baynton played back and acted as captain. Ground difficulties, however, caused the club to amalgamate with the Wanderers Cricket Club, and so Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. was formed and they later became one of the eleven founder members of the English Football League.
Baynton retired from the game in 1889, the year the Wanderers’ ground at Molineux was opened. He played in every position in the team and, though never capped, was in the team at a time when there were eight internationals playing. He had a tremendous kick and once scored a goal in a FA Cup-tie against Oswestry Town from ninety-seven yards. He decided to retire in 1883, but two years later was persuaded to keep goal in a Staffordshire Senior Cup-tie against West Bromwich Albion and did so well that he was carried shoulder high when
the Wanderers had won 2-0. He continued to play in goal, and his last match was in the FA Cup final against Preston North End at the Oval in 1889, when Preston won 3-0.
Baynton, like Brodie, was a schoolteacher. He started at St. Luke’s as a pupil teacher, and after a short period at All Saints’ School, Hockley, Birmingham, returned to St. Luke’s as assistant master. Later he joined his brother in Wolverhampton at D. Smith and Co. but subsequently was with Bayliss, Jones and Bayliss, Ltd., for twenty-three years.
What then is the Alfreton connection?
Jack Baynton died on the 17th of May 1939 at Alfreton, he and his wife having lived for some years with his daughter and son-in-law on Wycliffe Road. Jack Baynton was buried in an unmarked grave in Alfreton Cemetery, until in mid-2024 Kevin Harris, a Fan Ambassador for Wolves decided to do some detective work to both locate and mark the grave. Amber Valley Borough Council’s Cemeteries team have been fantastic in supporting his efforts and as a result the grave was identified and a plaque installed on the grave. The official unveiling ceremony will take place on the 11th of this month when both Family and Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club will be represented. A buffet reception afterwards at the Palmer Morewood Memorial Club, will be hosted by the Heritage Trust.
Wolves team: Jack Baynton back row, third from left.
Wolves logo
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EGG-CELLENT EASTER TRADITIONS FROM AROUND THE WORLD!
Around the world, Easter is celebrated in a wide variety of quirky and unique ways…it’s not all about the chocolate, sorry chocoholics!
Egg Rolling
In several places in the UK, on Easter Monday, children (and adults) gather to roll brightly painted eggs down a hill, competing to see whose egg travels the farthest without cracking. Known as “pace-egging”, from the Old English word Pasch, which comes from the Hebrew word Pesach, meaning Passover.
Water Fights
In Poland and Hungary, Easter Monday is known as “Wet Monday” or “Śmigus-Dyngus”. People use buckets, water guns, and water balloons to soak each other. The tradition is thought to date back to the 14th century and has roots in Slavic mythology, symbolising the cleansing of sins and the welcoming of spring.
Easter Fires
In parts of Germany, the arrival of Easter is marked with large bonfires known as “Osterfeuer.” These fires are built on Easter Sunday or Monday and are often lit at dusk. The tradition is said to represent the triumph of light over darkness, with the fire burning away the remnants of winter’s chill and welcoming in the warmth of spring.
Easter Bread
One of the best loved Easter traditions in Greece is the baking of tsoureki, a sweet, braided bread often flavoured with orange and sprinkled with sesame seeds and typically decorated with red-dyed eggs, symbolising the blood of Christ.
Easter Egg Trees
In Finland, Easter isn’t complete without an Easter Egg Tree. The branches are decorated with colourful, painted eggs, and sometimes even feathers. The tradition goes back centuries to pre-Christian times, when branches symbolised fertility and rebirth.
The Easter Witch
In Sweden, children dress up as påskkärring, or Easter witches, and go door-to-door with branches decorated with feathers, exchanging their “witchy” art for sweets.
Easter Bonnet Parade
On Easter Sunday in New York, locals and tourists alike take to the streets wearing outrageously decorated hats. The tradition dates back to the 1800s.
Easter Lamb
In Italy, lamb is often served as the star dish during Easter Sunday meals, just as it is in the UK. The lamb is thought to symbolise the sacrifice of Christ and the hope for new life. In some regions, people make a cake beautifully decorated to look like a real lamb.
Easter Monday Cheese Rolling
Gloucester may roll their cheese on the Spring Bank holiday, but in the United States, a small town in North Carolina has an Easter cheese rolling event. Just as in Gloucester, the idea is that the first person to reach the bottom of the hill wins the cheese—hopefully not breaking any bones in the process.
Easter is forever associated with chocolate eggs and the Easter Bunny here in the UK. Isn’t it nice to know there is such a variety of other traditions around the world?
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ORBITAL, BY SAMANTHA HARVEY...
IS OUT OF THIS WORLD – LITERALLY.
Living on an international space station 250 miles above the earth is not something most of us give much thought to. The odd bits we might have already learnt are that you can somersault through the air, free of gravity; that you might get to walk in space outside the craft, attached only by tethers which stop you floating away into the universe and that you have to swallow your toothpaste – you can’t spit it out because like everything else inside this metal can, it will float.
The author of this Booker Prize winning novella gives us that kind of information but so, so much more in her deep dive into 24 hours of life and thoughts of six astronauts as they experience sixteen orbits of the earth, sixteen sunsets, sixteen sunrises.
It is a story. These are not real people. But a superb level of NASA level research means we follow a faithfully true daily existence on board, the experiments, the observation, the collection of data, testing the limits of the human body and mind. Even joyfully watching the mice learning to fly around their cages.
A lot of it is about the mind – not just the mundane difficulty of living through a human day and night on the space station when you have days and nights flashing past you continually outside. Or watching a super typhoon build on earth which you know will bring death and destruction to those it hits. But also they fret over their earthly lives, whilst at the same time seeing the extraordinary beauty of the planet and getting a sense of the fragility of human life and even of the solar system.
This is a stunningly beautiful book, a travelogue of another kind of life, intriguing and astonishing, one that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Mike’sMusings
Our resident muser has the mike...
Mike is always glad to hear from you at : mike.musings@outlook.com
If I was Prime Minister I would……………..?
(it’s nearly time to move on – Part 1)
Following last month’s suggestion from Swanwick’s Callum, in which he had a go at those pensioners who, in his own words, appeared to have forgotten how lucky they really were, I gave notice that this particular theme had gone as far as it could go. In fact, thanks to readers’ contributions from out there in Voice Magazine land, it had probably gone much further than I had thought possible. However, as over the past twelve months, many of you had got in touch to tell me of things in modern life that really annoy you but without saying what you would do as PM to solve the problem. I’ve decided to do it for you and share your gripes in April and May before finally bringing this theme to an end. NB – as none of the contributors wanted ‘naming or shaming’ they will remain anonymous but…………… I’ll take credit (?) for the suggested remedy.
1. Cyclists who think traffic lights don’t apply to them. Every time CCTV catches them cycling through a red light, a loud siren is activated giving pedestrians the right to make a citizen’s arrest.
2. Passengers on a flight who drop the back of their seat without having the courtesy of notifying whoever may be sitting behind them. Seats to have a button installed, and as part of the pre-departure fight safety demonstration, passengers informed that they must press this to summon a steward who will then ensure that dropping the seat does not inconvenience anyone. Those failing to follow
this reasonable request will hear the captain, from the cockpit, announce their name and seat number.
3. Those who repeatedly leave the toilet seat in the raised position (you can hazard a guess at who SHE was referring to!) after use. This to be deemed grounds for divorce.
4. Being asked if you would like to donate 25p to charity when you pay for a purchase/service by credit card. The guy who raised this with me feels that it is a not very subtle form of coercion. He accepts that it may only be 25p but, and you can have a guess at his age, he claimed “Blimey, that’s two half-crowns!! He also objects to not knowing which charity will benefit and of exactly how much of his donation it will receive. The software systems driving this recent irritating development to be amended to give two options viz. would you like to donate 25p to charity or, alternatively, would you like a discount of the same amount? Retailers, restaurants etc., would soon abandon the practice.
5. Drivers hogging the middle lane. Qualified lorry drivers – and only those who have passed a strictly managed training programme! - to be given immunity from prosecution if they tailgate the offending vehicle whilst giving a loud ppppppaaaaaarrrrrrrpppppp!! on their horn at regular ten second intervals until the idiot in front moves over.
WHY NOT WRITE A BOOK?
by Roger West
You’ve probably
For years, I struggled with writing, convinced that only Oxford or Cambridge-educated minds could produce books. My poor 11-plus results reinforced that belief. Writers’ guides always advised, “Write what you know.” But what if, like me, you don’t know much?
Fiction eluded me—creating characters, dialogue, and drama felt impossible. Even my granddaughters could probably teach me! Once, I wrote to Spike Milligan for advice. His reply? “I just take my pen in my hand and stare at a blank sheet of paper until I bleed at the temples.” I still have his letter.
Eventually, I found my subject—coal mining. Our mining industry shaped landscapes, fuelled the Industrial Revolution, and provided livelihoods. Yet, many today don’t even know what coal is. I once sat by an open coal fire in a Welsh hotel when a family entered, shocked at the sight. That moment reinforced my desire to write.
This passion led me to write Red Blood for Black Gold, a book that ensures our mining heritage is never forgotten. The sacrifices of miners, the harsh conditions they endured, and the industry’s role in our nation’s history deserve to be remembered. My articles on Derbyshire mining, including South Normanton’s 1937 disaster, reached many—so why not a book?
Three years of research, setbacks, and perseverance later, Red Blood for Black Gold was born. Expect
rejection—mine came 13 times before Spiral Publications believed in my idea.
If you’ve ever thought of writing, take the leap. Red Blood for Black Gold proves that with passion and persistence, a book can become reality.
ROGER WEST
Roger West is a writer and researcher who has written for various provincial newspapers, publications and county magazines for many years. He has also worked with Mansfield 103.2 FM, Centre FM and BBC Radio Derby Sport as a football reporter, broadcaster, and co-commentator. He is determined to keep alive the memory of King Coal and believes that if we do not, then it will soon be forgotten by the generations of today and tomorrow. In Red Blood for Black Gold, Roger sets out to do just that, to never forget a once great and proud coal mining industry.
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GARDENERS CALENDAR
We’re still keeping tender plants indoors. Garden centres are full of lovely looking plug plants around Easter but there’s too much of a risk of frost yet to put them straight into the soil or containers. Grow on indoors or in a warm greenhouse.
But April is a great time for sowing hardy annuals such as nigella, indestructible nasturtiums, Ammi majus which gives you lovely white lace heads and is really attractive to bees, and sunflowers, (though you seriously need to protect the latter from slugs)
It’s also a good time to think about wildflower areas, which you can sow direct into prepared soil. If the soil is compacted fork it over and rake and if you’re adding new soil to a patch, tread it down lightly. Water lightly before sowing to give the seed a head start. You can broadcast seed easily with a sweeping motion – mix the seed with some sand then you can see where you’re spreading. Then rake over and water again. If you have a lot of birds visiting your garden it may be an idea to peg some horticultural fleece over the area to stop the birds getting first dibs. As the seedlings grow don’t be tempted to let the plants become overcrowded, it’s more likely to hinder growth, so pull out the weakest looking seedlings. Keep watering as they become established.
Prune lavender but don’t cut into the woody part of the plant. Deadhead winter pansies and they’ll keep flowering into the summer. Prune back Cornus hard, to within a couple of buds of the base and they’ll give good colour next year.
TOP TIP
As you grow on bedding plants nip out the growing tips to provide bushier plants and more flowers later and avoid leggy plants as the season moves on.
SPRING BUTTERFLIES EMERGE FROM THEIR WINTER SLUMBERS
With a few weeks of warmer, sunnier weather the early butterflies are out and about. Some of the earliest species to emerge are the pretty Small Tortoiseshell, and the splendid Peacock, and these can be seen on warm days in late February and early March. However, another quite stunning butterfly is the appropriately named Brimstone, the male being a bright sulphur yellow. This species, the Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni) is a brilliantly-coloured butterfly seen in local gardens, along woodland edges, on old country lanes, and in or around parklands. This large, quite stunning species tends to be spotted on warm, early spring days when they emerge from their winter hibernation. Regarded as one of the heralds of springtime, this species appears to be increasing, perhaps with climate warming. This rather spectacular butterfly, which is actually a member of the ‘White’ butterflies, is also an early species, already out and about in February and March this year. The Brimstone has two broods with the first being early emergent adults that overwintered, and then a second in summer through until around September.
They are most common in the south and in areas with limestone vegetation such as the Dales. Their restricted distribution is related to the occurrence of their favoured food-plants for egg-laying which are purging buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and alder buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula). These are both quite uncommon except in woods and hedges on
limestone areas and also in urban planting schemes such as around shopping centres. Especially in early spring, they are flying in woodlands, wetlands, and gardens, across suitable areas of habitat and they are easy to spot. As I said earlier, the males are bright sulphur-yellow (hence the ‘Brimstone’ name), and the females, also distinctive and pretty, are pale green. Small amounts of alder buckthorn, one of the food-plants, were grown in some coppice woods associated with the manufacture of highquality charcoal.
The Brimstone is pretty much unmistakeable with perhaps one exception for the beginner. There is one other ‘White’ butterfly that sports some yellow, and this can look quite bright in sunlight. This is the ubiquitous Large White or Cabbage White. This has very yellow rear underwings and a patch on the underside forewings. Again, this is a large species, but the wing shape is very different from Brimstone which has distinctive points in the wing-tips. Once you have seen a Brimstone, then you really won’t mistake any other species for them.
Planting buckthorn in gardens and other greenspaces may help this stunning insect spread. You can help their conservation by planting buckthorn in your garden but don’t eat the berries. It is well-named ‘purging buckthorn’ because of its strongly laxative properties formerly employed in herbal medicine!
Professor Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer, broadcaster on wildlife and environmental issues in the Peak District and elsewhere, is contactable on ianonthewildside@ukeconet.org. Follow his website www.ukeconet.org, blog www.ianswalkonthewildside.wordpress.com/ & Twitter
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