Duffield Parish Council

02/06/2026

Further water safety advice from Derbyshire Constabulary: Please be aware and speak to your teens and young adults about the risks. The latest numbers show that the recent hot weather cost the lives of 17 people across the country after getting into trouble in open water, with the majority being under 18.

WATER SAFETY - float to stay alive
With warmer weather here, more people are heading to open water spots across Derbyshire. Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service is reminding everyone to stay safe and be aware of the risks and so are we!
Know the risks
🔹 Even on hot days, open water is dangerously cold – cold water shock can affect anyone
🔹 Strong currents, deep water, and hidden hazards (rocks, debris, sudden drops) can quickly put you in danger
🔹 Reservoirs and quarries often have steep sides, making it difficult to get out
✅ How to stay safe
🔹 Stick to designated swimming areas and follow local safety signage
🔹 Never swim alone – always go with someone who can raise the alarm
🔹 Supervise children closely – stay within arm’s reach around water
🔹 Avoid alcohol when in or near water – it significantly increases risk
🔹 Wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid if you're paddleboarding, kayaking or boating
🔹 Be aware of changing weather conditions and water levels
🚨 In an emergency
🔹 Call 999 or 112 and ask for Fire & Rescue
🔹 Do not enter the water to rescue someone – this can put you at risk too
🔹 Encourage the person to FLOAT TO LIVE:
• Tilt their head back with ears submerged
• Relax and try to control breathing
• Use arms and legs to stay afloat
We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely this summer!
Please take a moment to think before you enter the water—it could save your life.

26/05/2026

Eyes Meadow: following the unseasonably hot bank holiday weekend, there was a vast increase in the amount of litter left and we would like to wholeheartedly thank those individuals that took bin bags down to the Meadow to help clear up - this is despite the bins being emptied on Friday and again today by our grounds staff.
We are looking at solutions to the ever growing problem of the bins overflowing during a hot spell, but in the meantime we would like to reiterate that if the bins are full, please take your rubbish home and use your normal household waste bin instead.
We also had some reports of fires being lit and youngsters swimming in the river and would request that parents kindly remind their young people of the dangers of open water swimming in hot weather (see our recent post for more on this) and that no fires must be lit or barbecues used except in the designated area. Thank you.

19/05/2026

Trinity Hall - Update!

14/05/2026

Award for Civic Contribution to Duffield - winners announced!

The Parish Council's second Civic Award was awarded at the Parish Council meeting last week to husband-and-wife dynamic duo Nigel and Judy Ho**er. Nigel and Judy, as President and Secretary of the Duffield Community Association, give their wholehearted commitment... Read More »

14/05/2026

The Parish Council’s second Award for Civic Contribution was awarded at the Parish Council meeting last week to husband-and-wife dynamic duo Nigel and Judy Ho**er. Nigel and Judy, as President and Secretary of the Duffield Community Association, give their wholehearted commitment to the village. From organising the Carnival and November Fireworks display, to daffodils in the verges, Christmas trees and lights, or installing local defibrillators, the DCA has undoubtedly benefited every Duffield resident in some way.
We hope that this award will form a small token of the village's and the Parish Council's gratitude towards Nigel and Judy for all the hard work they have put in over the years. Thank you!
Our thanks also to Duffield Co-op who donated a hamper and to the Bridge inn who donated a voucher for a three course meal and drinks, which were presented to the winning couple at the meeting along with a presentation certificate, by Cllrs Jan Thompson and Jim Grieveson (pictured left, with Nigel and Judy).

14/05/2026

Water Safety Reminder – Stay Safe This Summer

Information from Derbyshire Constabulary about the risks of swimming in open water such as the River Derwent. Read More »

14/05/2026

Reminder from Derbyshire Constabulary.

🚨 Water Safety Reminder – Stay Safe This Summer 🌊

As the warmer months approach, we often see more people heading outdoors to enjoy local beauty spots across Amber Valley. While open water can look inviting, it can also be extremely dangerous.
⚠️ Please always respect and follow "No Swimming" signs and safety warnings – they are there to protect you.
Open water hazards include:
• 🧊 Cold water shock – even on warm days, water temperatures can be dangerously low and cause your body to shut down in seconds
• 🌪 Hidden currents and strong underflows – these can quickly pull even strong swimmers under
• 🚫 Unseen hazards – submerged rocks, debris, or sudden drops in depth
• 🌊 Unstable edges and slippery banks – increasing the risk of falls into deep water
• ⛔ No lifeguards or emergency support – help may not be immediately available
Areas like rivers, reservoirs, quarries, and lakes in Amber Valley are not safe swimming environments, no matter how calm they may appear.
✅ Stay safe by:
• Observing all warning signs
• Keeping back from the water's edge
• Supervising children closely
• Choosing designated, supervised swimming areas instead
💛 Let's work together to prevent avoidable tragedies this summer.
Enjoy the sunshine, but don't take the risk –
If you see someone in trouble, call 999 immediately.

08/05/2026

Duffield Parish Council was delighted to welcome a group of local young people, together with supporting adults, to Wednesday evening’s Full Council meeting to discuss the issue of bike riding and jump building within Millennium Meadow Nature Reserve.

The Trustees of the Nature Reserve have understandably raised concerns regarding potential damage and disturbance to wildlife and habitats within the meadow.

Councillors would like to commend the young people for the polite, respectful and enthusiastic way they approached the matter. It was extremely positive to see them engaging with the Council and seeking the correct route to help find a solution and suitable facilities for their hobby and activities.

The Parish Council is now actively looking into possible options and is prioritising ways to accommodate their requirements where possible. Whilst any detailed long-term solution may take time to explore properly, the Council will also consider whether any quicker interim options may be available to provide a suitable space.

07/05/2026

Don't miss The Old Farm Bus's weekly sessions at the Scout Hut on Thursday evenings 5-7pm for young people age 11-17. Providing an alternative scene for teenagers, the team offer a wide range of new opportunities and experiences. From "studio" spaces for DJ-ing, song writing and music to workshops for creative expression, woodwork skills and art, as well as sport activities and space for socialising with friends.
Sessions are totally FREE (sponsored by the Parish Council) - bookings not required.

23/04/2026

Update from Derbyshire Constabulary/Neighbourhood Watch:
🚨 Community Update – Eyes Meadow 🚨
Officers have been carrying out high visibility foot patrols around the Eyes Meadows area in response to concerns about nuisance off road motorbikes.
These patrols are taking place to deter anti social behaviour, identify those involved, and provide reassurance to residents using the area. We will continue to monitor the location and take appropriate action where required.
If you have any information about off road bikes being used in the area, or know where vehicles may be stored, please get in touch with us. Your information could make a real difference.
📞 You can contact us via 101, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Thank you for your continued support—working together helps keep our community safe.