Village Voice No 291 February 2017
Melbourne & District
GYM CLOSURE A BLOW FOR TOWN
l Melbourne-based group Stage Left Drama take a bow for their performance of Cinderella at the Robert Ludlam Theatre in Derby. Report on Page 9.
by Lucy Stephens
MORE than 100 children and adults who were regular users of Melbourne’s gym have been left having to find a new place to go after it suddenly shut.
Picture of Health Fitness Studio on Derby Road had been a meeting place for local groups such as Oakden Dance Academy and Melbourne Joggers, as well as its regular membership, who were all left stranded after it closed its doors with no advance notice on January 27. The reasons for the closure have not
been made clear. Mandy Gregory, who runs Oakden Dance Academy, was left trying to find an alternative venue for 60 children who attend her Saturday morning class. Only the day before the gym shut, a new floor was being installed – the previous one having been damaged in last May’s flood. Mandy said: “It’s a shame. There’s no hall that we can have every Saturday in Melbourne. We have now got to find somewhere to teach every Saturday – it’s not brilliant.” Oakden is a freestyle dance school set up by Mandy’s parents and has been going for nearly half a century – 44 of those years in Melbourne. Mandy said she had managed to find
SHOP Locally
--
YOUR LOCAL CONVENIENCE STORE
• • • • • • •
MONTHLY SPECIAL OFFERS NOW SELLING BEERS, WINES & SPIRITS CHILLED AND FROZEN FOODS SANDWICHES, SNACKS & SOFT DRINKS TOILETRIES AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS CHOCOLATE AND CONFECTIONERY BIRD SEED AND PET FOODS RY ELIVE
DOVES O S Garages LLtd. td.
LD LOCA FREE
OPEN: Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm Sat 8am - 3pm
HIGH STREET, MELBOURNE Tel: 01332 862123
some halls to meet in over the next few weeks, including the Catholic Church Hall and the Wesley Hall – and she thanked those organisations for accommodating her at short notice. Melbourne Joggers, which was set up in 2009, has met at the gym for the past seven years and currently has around 40 regular attenders, was also left having to find a new place to meet on Tuesday evenings. Picture of Health was set up in a former shoe factory in 1999 by Laura and Dave Middleton, who ran it for 12 years, since when it has changed hands at least twice. Laura, now manager at Breedon Priory Health Club, said the loss of the gym was “really sad” for Melbourne.
“It was a good facility, and it’s a shame that it’s gone,” she said, adding that she was now seeing quite a few former Picture of Health members coming to Breedon having lost their local gym. One of those is Dick Carlier – who was to have completed a sponsored workout to mark his 80th birthday at Picture of Health and is now doing it at Breedon. Dick said he had been a member of Picture of Health for 18 years since it first opened. “I’m very disappointed,” he said. “I’ve been a regular user of the gym for 18 years and it’s part of my life. As a nondriver, it means I have difficulty in going anywhere else.” n See Page 18 for Dick’s sponsored workout story.
TV - DVD RECORDERS HIFI - TUMBLE DRYERS WASHERS - COOKERS FRIDGES - MICROWAVES VACUUM CLEANERS KETTLES - TOASTERS ALL AT...
6 MARKET PLACE, MELBOURNE TELEPHONE: 01332 862607 www.blatchs.co.uk email: sales@blatchs.co.uk
newton fallowell
raising the standard of estate agency
INSIDE STORIES
MELBOURNE ESTATE AGENTS Residential Sales and Lettings Tel: 01332 865696 Melbourne: 01332 865696
Makeover for the Assembly Rooms – Page 3
Getting a tune out of bagpipes – Page 6
Badgers’ big day at Pride Park – Page 20
MG
elbourne arage
MoT TEST CENTRE SELECTION OF WORKSHOPS AND OFFICE SPACE TO RENT Castle Lane, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8DY Telephone 01332 862373
www.melbournevillagevoice.co.uk ● news@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk 01332 863181 ● ads@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk 07584 025 852 Where sold: 30p
2 Village Voice February 2017
Melbourne Lets PROPERTIES AVAILABLE TO LET...
MARINA’S AN OLIO HEROINE
6 CHAPEL LANE, BARROW ON TRENT
Spacious family home in peaceful location. Fabulous kitchen with rangemaster stove - includes white goods. 2 double bedrooms-one with fitted wardrobes+2 single bedrooms. Large family bathroom with roll top bath and walk-in shower. Pleasant rear garden.Parking for 2 cars £1000 PCM
36 HUNTINGDON COURT, MELBOURNE
Well presented 2 bedroom house close to local schools. Good size modern kitchen with breakfast bar. Through lounge with wall mounted electric fire. Master bedroom with fully fitted wardrobes. Smart family bathroom. Private enclosed rear garden. Orp for up to 3 cars. £595 PCM
17 ALMA STREET, MELBOURNE
Smartly presented 3 bedroom terrace. Pleasant lounge with wooden boards and feature fireplace Modern dining/kitchen with all integrated white goods. Very quirky modern bathroom on second floor. Long back garden with decking, lawn and shed. Gch and double glazing. £595 PCM
10 THE DOVECOTE, BREEDON ON THE HILL Pleasently situated 2 bedroom property. Close to village school. Large enclosed rear garden. Orp for 2 cars. £525 PCM
19 MAIN STREET, MILTON
l Marina Yates, Sue Gray, Toni Dean and Garry Dunne with the kinds of perishable goods often available on Olio.
Beautiful 3 bed cottage in village location. Full of character and charm with open beams throughout. Newly installed wood burner in Front room. Large cottage garden with 2 sheds. £725 PCM
31A MARKET PLACE, MELBOURNE
Large 2 bed flat in central location Breakfast kitchen with cooker & washing machine. Large living room with open fire. Bathroom with shower. £450 PCM
*** AVAILABLE SOON ***
Newly refurbished 3 bed bungalow in quiet area of Melbourne!!! Call for more information on this fantastic property!!!
PROPERTIES ALWAYS NEEDED Contact us for details on any of these properties or for help and advice with letting your own property...
SARAH: 07770 CHRISTINE: 07870
769246 547357
info@melbournelets.co.uk or visit our website www.melbournelets.co.uk
We offer exquisite custom made furniture, kitchens, bedrooms and home studies designed to fulfil your every need.
Beaau f Be u fuul Spaces Naturall allyy Kitchens • Bedrooms • Home Studies • Furniture To enjoy over £20,000 worth of beautiful, handcraf aftted custom-made solid wood kitchens of the highest quality for for less than £4,495, direct from us to you, follo follow these three easy steps...
elephone Allwood Kitchens & Interiors on 1 T0800 731 7351 We will complete a no obligation quotation 2 including home visit and design ur fully trained staff will prof ofessionally essionally install 3 Oyour dream kitchen. It couldn’t couldn’t be easier!
www.allwood-kitchens.co.uk
AUSTIN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES LTD
For a friendly, professional, local agent who can cater for all your property management requirements, please call or email us on:
01332 862173 or info@austinproperty.co.uk
THE food sharing app Olio has stepped up a notch in Melbourne after a “food waste heroine” stepped forward to help get things off the ground. Marina Yates is now helping keep Olio going locally by collecting perishable goods from Sainsbury’s that would otherwise be thrown in the bin at the end of the day. She also collects food supplies such as allotment-grown vegetables uploaded on to the app by local residents to save them going to waste. Marina makes twice weekly visits to Sainsbury’s to collect unsold food from the shop, which she then lists and uploads on to Olio. Food is then stored in a special box in Sainsbury’s where it can be collected by people who have signed up to the app and requested
particular items. Marina and Toni Dean, Olio co-ordinator for this area, said that regulars were already using the app in this area – but more people are being encouraged to take advantage of it, and also to volunteer to collect food. Toni said: “Olio is a food sharing platform. You can be on it if you really hate food waste or if you need to use the food.” Melbourne Sainsbury’s manager Garry Dunne said: “We’re in partnership with Olio and the volunteer from them collects our bread that we have not managed to sell that day twice a week. They then list the bread on to their app which the general public can then go on and select what they would like.” For more, log on to www.olioex.com. Anyone interested in volunteering should email Toni on toni@olioex.com
Having a vital say on house planning
DURING February, every household in Melbourne and King’s Newton will receive a copy of a questionnaire about the Neighbourhood Development Plan. Back in October 2014, after a public meeting on the scale of housing development in the two communities, the parish council set up a working group to develop the plan. After two years of gathering information and evidence the first draft is ready to be published. The group says that the questionnaire is a vital part of assessing public opinion. Cllr Margaret Sharp, chair of Melbourne Parish Council, said: “I would like to thank the working group for all their hard work on the Neighbourhood Development Plan. I hope everyone in the community will reply to the questionnaire being delivered to every household in Melbourne and King’s Newton.” The plan sets out policies for housing and
land use until 2028 and contains several draft policies, which, if the questionnaire responses show broad agreement, will go forward to inspection and then a formal referendum. The policies include: l No development beyond the present settlement boundaries – development will be ‘infill’ only; l Maintaining the separation between Melbourne and Kings Newton; and l Housing development within the settlement area to be up to three bedrooms. The plan also sets out the designation of 21 areas of “Local Green Space” on which development would not be supported, along with setting out community aspirations and desires to protect the heritage and preserve agricultural land. If adopted after a formal public referendum, those behind the plan say it would become an important part of the consideration of all future planning appli-
cations. Part of that would be to support the South Derbyshire Local Plan, produced by the district council, which outlines the policies which enable development whilst also preserving the countryside. A copy of the draft Neighbourhood Development Plan, including all the supporting information gathered so far, will be available on the parish council website and at Melbourne Library. You can also complete the questionnaire online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/melbournendp1 Collecting boxes for the questionnaires will be placed at Sainsbury’s and the newsagents and more paper copies are available from Jane Carroll (janedunstercarroll@gmail.com). Everyone over the age of 16 in the parish is being asked to complete a questionnaire which must be returned by the end of March. – Frank Hughes
Society pushing the boat out for ‘Pirates’
MELBOURNE Operatic Society will be the very model of a modern major-general when its members put on The Pirates of Penzance in April. The society says rehearsals are now in full swing for its
forthcoming production of the celebrated Gilbert and Sullivan opera, to be held at the Duchess Theatre in Long Eaton from April 5-8. Several new members joined the society last year and took
part in the Christmas concerts, with the group saying that its performances of “O Holy Night” and “Christmas Sanctus” had gone down particularly well. Further members have joined for The Pirates of Pen-
zance and the society has promised it will be an entertaining show with Gary Askam producing and David Henshaw musical director of the 13-piece orchestra. Tickets are now on sale.
There are new signs of life for MARS
MELBOURNE Assembly Rooms (MARS) is getting something of a facelift, with work well underway to modernise both the entrance lobby areas and the kitchen. The old school kitchen is being turned into a multi-purpose space with modern catering facilities, permanent bar fixtures and exhibition space on the walls, which will extend out into the lobby. “As well as using the area as a bar for regular events, we plan to stage art exhibitions, coffee mornings, cookery demonstrations and wine tastings in the refurbished area,” said manager Andy Heafield. He added that “demand for the facility continues to increase as we improve on what we have to offer, and it is pleasing Photo: Tina Baker that many local groups look upon the venue as their home to stage their own events”. He said: “My aim has always been to make it central to our community and I believe we are going some way towards that.” The cost of the refurbishment, at around £100,000, has been made possible through grant money made available by South Derbyshire District Council and from revenue from lettings. Cllr Jim Hewlett, chairman of South Derbyshire District Council’s Housing and Community Services Committee, said: “The council is delighted to be supporting the Melbourne Assembly Rooms project and, thanks to the dedication of the community and everyone involved, excellent progress is being made. “It’s a fine example of partnership working that is bringing something fresh and vibrant to the local community.” Although longer term there is still the aspiration for a who-
‘Paperboy’ John still delivering at 90
HAPPY 90th birthday to the Village Voice’s oldest “paperboy”. John Thompson, of Ingleby pub fame, has been faithfully delivering our papers to local residents for the past 24 years. John, who set up the pub in 1969, still helps distribute the Village Voice by putting it through doors in Ingleby. “I’ve never missed a delivery, apart from holidays!” he said. The John Thompson Inn & Brewery is now run by John’s son, Nick, and is well known for its roast beef dinners. The brewery was set up in 1977. John said he still helps out in the pub garden, as well as his paper delivery duties. His wife, Ann, still works in the pub’s carvery. He is pictured delivering a Village Voice to local resident Gill Watson.
lescale renovation of the entire building, funds from organisations like the Heritage Lottery Fund are never guaranteed and making improvements with money which was available now seemed to be an obvious choice. Those who attended the old secondary school will remember cookery classes in the kitchen with teacher Mrs Fanny Jeffries and as MARS director Sheila Hicklin recalled: “It was never the Great British Bake Off, but we all wanted to have our Christmas cakes turn out better than hers.” MARS directors say the lobby will have a much more open feel with the suspended ceiling removed and the interior decoration in the kitchen will be very sympathetic to the heritage of the building. – Frank Hughes
Motorbike owner gutted over theft
A BIKE enthusiast who has spent three and a half years modifying his machine has appealed for help after it was stolen from a unit in Melbourne – along with another vehicle. The two bikes, an orange KTM 300 EXC and a blue and white Suzuki DR Z400, were stolen from a unit on Castle Lane Industrial Estate in Melbourne between 5pm on Thursday, January 26, and 11am the next day. Suzuki owner Tim Thompson
Paul Salter Upholstery Re-upholstery Specialist Domestic & Commercial Recliners, Dining Chairs 3 Piece Suites, Fireside Chairs Conservatory Furniture & Antiques Office Chairs & Reception Furniture Boats & Caravans Free Estimates & Pattern Service Over 35 years Experience - City & Guilds -
Telephone 01332 572064 07887 864797 paul_salter@btinternet.com
is a member of the national group the Trail Riders. He said: “I have spent the last three and a half years modifying this bike to suit the riding I do. “The modifications made to it are reasonably distinctive and I have sent details to various trail riders groups across the country. “I am gutted that it has been stolen and would really appreciate any help that anyone can give to try to get the bike back.”
Village Voice February 2017 3
Selection of real ales and continental lagers
Wood fired pizza oven Mediterranean inspired menu
Large heated outdoor area Private function suite Live music events - OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY Food served 12-2pm 5.30pm til 9pm Sundays 1pm til 5pm
The Castle Inn - 2 High Street - Castle Donington - DE74 2PP
01332 391296
www.the-castle-inn.co.uk
17 potter street, MeLBoUrNe DerBYsHIre De73 1DW As the only privately owned, family run Funeral Directors in Melbourne we are able to offer an extremely personal yet professional service at a reasonable cost, both in Leicestershire and Derbyshire.
Under the personal supervision of John Springthorpe Quotations given
telephone: Melbourne (01332) 865511 At ANY tIMe
4 Village Voice February 2017
Country Living with Robert Parker
I THINK we will be heartily fed up with Brexit and its consequences long before we finally leave the EU, whenever that may be. These consequences are very worrying for agriculture along with many other industries, and we are in for a period of great uncertainty. Most people know that farmers throughout Europe receive some form of subsidy and I make no apology for that. I actually dislike the system but, as things are, we just could not stay in business without some form of help. There is another way of looking at this though, which puts the whole thing into perspective. The majority of our suppliers are global companies who sell to all the farmers in the rest of the EU as well as here. These multi-nationals know how much we receive per acre and price their goods so we can afford them and achieve some
HELP YOUR FAMILY BY MAKING A WILL
Our Solicitors will guide you through the process and advise you on the best structure of a Will relating to your circumstances.
Protect your Assets and your Family.
For more detailed advice on how we can help you, call us now on:
Coalville
Ashby
01530 834466
01530 414111
Leicester
Melbourne
0116 2551901
01332 863810
www.craneandwalton.com
sort of profit. If our subsidy disappeared their prices would decrease pro rata, and the same could be said for a lot of our other input costs. Rents for land, for instance, would soon drop if the market changed. There are other worries as now we are in a very global market and the world is a very small place from a trading point of view. Some other emerging countries are taking up food production in a big way and the global suppliers are courting them for business, at the same time overlooking our market. Strange times. n What a dreary dank month January has been with very little severe frosts that we used to expect a few years ago. Rainfall throughout the winter has been very low, which is welcome, but the pessimist in me thinks it will even itself out over the year. Please let us not have a wet summer.
Dog poo ‘putting us in dire streets’
Packed to the laughters
l John Newton (left) with Tom Wrigglesworth.
ANOTHER packed house at the Royal British Legion for the regular Festival “Funhouse” comedy night welcomed comedy giant Tom Wrigglesworth as headline act. Not only is he massively tall, he now ranks amongst the comedy luminaries with his regular Radio 4 “Hang-ups” slot and his numerous TV appearances. Shown above with “Sarf London boy” John Newton, who compered the show with a good catalogue of one-liner jokes, Tom took us through his recent attendance on a speed awareness course, his brush with the higher echelons of society, and occasional fractious dealings with jobsworth officials. Supporting Tom was another
comedy celebrity, Nick Revell, who opened the show. Nick’s narration of a night out in Glasgow is probably the only time you will ever hear a catalogue of famous philosophies quoted in one sketch and his explanation of the dawn chorus will change your opinion for ever on sweet bird song! Also appearing were the Discount Comedy Checkout, a group of four young comics from Leeds, whose “improv” act cleverly exposed some of the very strange and worrying thoughts which pass through the minds of our local audience! The next show will be on March 31, featuring Paddy Lennox and Bill Dodds. – FH
MELBOURNE’S streets are said to be “dire” because of the persistent problem of dog fouling. Cllr Sheila Hicklin told the latest meeting of Melbourne Parish Council that dog turds on the village’s pavements was continuing to be a bad problem – with parents having to clean up foul shoes because their children had stepped in dog poo on their way to school. She said: “It is increasingly getting worse within and around the village. The streets of Melbourne are dire. I have never seen anything else quite like it.” The problem of dog fouling has infuriated some people in Melbourne so much that they have taken to spray painting poo on the pavement in green so as to highlight the issue. Many other parents have frequently voiced their anger on the subject on social media. Last month the Village Voice reported how dog owners were being encouraged to sign up to a pledge by South Derbyshire District Council. The responsibility for dealing with dog fouling lies with the district council and not the parish. South Derbyshire’s spokesman told us that dog owners were being invited to sign up to the Green Dog Walkers Pledge which involves promising to clean up after their pets, encouraging others to do the same and giving other walkers extra doggy bags if they do not have any. – LS
Rector whose ‘Dark Side’ is Star Wars...
POSSIBLY the last thing one might expect visiting Melbourne Rectory is a doormat proclaiming “Welcome to the Dark Side”. But, if you call upon the new rector, Rev. Steve Short, that is exactly what will greet you. It does not stop there; the collection of Star Wars figures among the theology books, and the Star Wars slippers are all a clue that he is a big fan of the epic film series. There is a lot more to know about him besides. He is not just the son of a vicar, but he is also the grandson of a vicar. While his grandfather stood some 6ft 4 inches tall, at 5ft 5in he feels that he has grown into the name. He also revealed that in his younger days he was a semi-pro basketball player and then a body builder, until someone was unkind enough to point out that he possibly did not have all the necessary qualities. That is when he turned to his current hobby of power-lifting, and he has the equipment in the garage waiting for him to get back to his squatting and deadlifting. Steve said that early life was somewhat transitory as his father moved from Southgate, North London, first to the Lake District and then to Northamptonshire. After school, he began studies at Greenwich University but didn’t settle there, and he moved to Southampton where he took up a position as a chaplain’s assistant in a seafarer’s mission. He also recalled his call to the priesthood. During a career chat he was, “being steered towards a life in accountancy, until Mr Bainbridge – noting his family history – asked if he had ever considered the church. “I was forming the word ‘no’ when a bell rang in my head and I suddenly said ‘yes’ and so began a journey of 20 years,” until, at the age of 36, he was ordained. He passed his theology degree at Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education. After that he returned to Southampton before taking up a position as a youth worker in Churchdown, near Cheltenham, where he met his wife to be, Rachel, when they were both singing in the choir. He finished his training for Ministry change. Building on the work of former post holdat Cuddesdon in Oxfordshire. After becoming an ordained deacon he was ap- ers, Mark Powell and John Davies, I know I am pointed as curate of Tewkesbury Abbey where he only the custodian of one of the finest Norman stayed for four years before being appointed to churches in the world. “For me it is a balance between the sacred the parishes of Barlborough and Clowne in Bolsover, Derbyshire. Six years on, he success- stones of the building and the living stones of the church – the people. fully applied for the rector’s post covering Mel“I am looking forward to working alongside my bourne, Ticknall, Stanton and Smisby. At the formal collation, induction and installaecumenical colleagues to broaden the activities in the church and in the community; it is not only tion ceremony, led by the Bishop of Repton, one of the symbolic acts is to ring the bell as notice about worship, broader activities can provide a that his new tenure has started. There is a tradi- way in. “I think it’s fair to say, as I look forward to my tion that the number of “dongs” predicts the duration of stay. His was 10 strikes, suggesting a first full service on the weekend, I am both a bit nervous and very excited!” stay here of 10 years. He said he was immensely looking forward to There is one omen, however, that Melbourne Arts Festival organisers need to watch. Whereas both the challenges and the opportunities. the festival claims to have a tradition of divine in“Firstly, it is a lovely place to live and, with two tervention for good weather during September, young children – Sophie aged six and Benjamin Steve’s track record is just a bit worrying. aged two – the home setting could not be nicer. The fit with the person profile for the post could Soon after taking over as curate in Tewkesbury Abbey in summer 2007, there was the worst delnot have be better, with the emphasis on liturgy and strong choral tradition,” he said. uge and flooding known since records began in 1766. – Frank Hughes “And I am a great believer in incremental
Diamond duo still sparkling
THIS pair of diamonds celebrated 60 years of married life by holding a party at their home. Liz and Dave Hames farmed at Lodge Farm in King’s Newton for more than 30 years and made many friends in the Melbourne area during their time there. They marked their diamond wedding anniversary with a party at their home near Tamworth.
VEG TO STAR AT THE FESTIVAL
Village Voice February 2017 5
VEGETABLES could be seen mingling with plants on Melbourne’s public spaces over this year’s Arts Festival weekend, as part of its 2017 market gardening theme. The Melbourne Festival will be celebrating the village’s market gardening heritage this year. The latest meeting of the parish council in the Assembly Rooms heard how festival organisers had asked whether they could grow vegetables “with attractive foliage” such as carrots and kale at Lothian Gardens and the Thomas Cook gardens. The Senior Citizens’ Centre is another green space where vegetables are planned for display. Parish councillors agreed the plans but it was suggested at the meeting that the vegetables should be grown in pots offsite and added to the public spaces in time for the trail weekend in September. Cllr Jane Carroll, speaking at the parish council meeting, said: “The aim of the project is to encourage people to buy their vegetables locally.”
POLICE TO STEP UP DOG PATROLS
POLICE vigilance at Tori and Ben’s farm behind Melbourne Hall is to be stepped up after dogs off leads led to a prize-winning pregnant cow having to be put down. PCSO Emma Guest from Melbourne said that police would be patrolling the area, talking to dog owners and helping with signage. The law says that dogs should be under control when out in public. Tori Stanley, who farms with husband Ben, said: “We are so pleased this issue of dogs off leads is being taken seriously and supported by the police. It is our livelihood and animal welfare at stake. It’s unfair and so easily resolved. Dogs do not need to be off leads to get satisfactory exercise.” PCSO Guest said police would be particularly present during lambing time in March.
Two Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
Mother's Day Sunday 26th March 3 Course Lunch
£24.95 (children £11.95) Bookings now being taken
Melbourne’s Premier
Two Rosette Award-Winning Restaurant 01332 862134 www.harpursofmelbourne.co.uk follow us: 2 Derby Road, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8FE
AA Pub of the Year
12 Boot Hill, Repton DE65 6FT
England 2016-2017
Tel:01283
346047
Web:thebootatrepton.co.uk
League table boost for school
NEWS
6 Village Voice February 2017
CHELLASTON Academy is in the top quarter of the country’s schools in the Government league tables released in January, with a score of “above average” based on pupils’ achievements in their GCSE and English Baccalaureate exams. Chellaston’s A-level results were also above national average and in the country’s top 12 per cent. At Etwall’s John Port School, whose catchment includes Milton, Twyford and Findern, the results were considerably worse with a ranking of “well below national average” – the lowest level – putting it in the country’s bottom 10 per cent of schools. This year’s Government league tables for secondaries have been changed so that schools are now ranked according to a “Progress 8” score. This is an attempt at a fairer system which ranks pupils’ progress from primary to secondary – the previous one having been criticised because it did not take into account differing ability levels upon arrival at senior school but judged schools simply on students’ results. At Chellaston, 80 per cent of pupils scored grade C or higher in English and Maths GCSE, well above the England average of 59.3 per cent, while John Port’s percentage was 56. However, 95 per cent of John Port’s pupils stayed in education or went on to employment after GCSE, as compared with 94 per cent at Chellaston, which was also the national average.
in brief
Tools theft info appeal
A guide to the bagpipes
l Megan Mitchell has a blow on the bagpipes watched by Melissa DavyEricson.
THE pipes, the pipes were calling at Melbourne Scout hut when a bagpiper paid a visit on Burns night. Melissa Davy-Ericson, 18, a preuniversity quality improvement engineer at Rolls-Royce, was invited to play for the Guides by work colleague and Melbourne mum Suzanne Adams, to mark the birthday of the famous Scottish poet. Melissa donned a traditional pipers’ attire, including a floor length tartan kilt, as she provided a demonstration on her great highland bagpipes, giving the Guides a small history of the instrument and allowing them to have a go. Melissa, who is Australian – although she has lived in Scotland – started playing the pipes about four
years ago at the suggestion of her father, and has played in a pipe band north of the border. Post Rolls-Royce she hopes to study product design in Italy – where, interestingly enough, the bagpipes in fact originate – and she plans to take them with her. “Pipe playing is quite a unique thing, it piques people’s interest and it’s nice to share that,” she said. Suzanne, who is from Scotland herself, said she was keen to teach the Guides about the celebrated bard. “You forget that from being a poor farmer, how famous he is and how worldwide people know about Robert Burns,” she said. “Everybody sings Auld Lang Syne at New Year.”
POLICE are still appealing for information after burglars stole power tools from a house in Weston-on-Trent. Thieves targeted the outhouses of the property on Weston Road before breaking into the house itself, making off with a number of power tools. The incident happened at around 9am on Monday, December 12, but no-one has yet been caught, and police are keen for any information. Anyone who can help is asked to contact DC Luanne Heeley on 101 quoting reference number 16000410607.
Reaching your health goals
A LIFE coaching session designed to help people reach their health and fitness goals is being held in Melbourne to help a keen runner raise money for the London Marathon. The coaching session is being held by personal coach Sabrina Cox at the Training Centre in Chapel Street on March 11. To book or for further information, contact Sabrina on sabrina@barefootcoaching.co.uk. All money raised from attendance is being donated to the British Lung Foundation.
SHOW HOME LAUNCH & OPEN DAY AT RICHMOND ASTON-ON-TRENT RETIREMENT VILLAGE )L VUL VM [OL ÄYZ[ [V ]PL^ V\Y Z[\UUPUN UL^ ZOV^ HWHY[TLU[ HUK ÄUK V\[ HIV\[ [OL L_JLW[PVUHS SPMLZ[`SL H[ 9PJOTVUK (Z[VU VU ;YLU[ 9L[PYLTLU[ =PSSHNL ;OYV\NOV\[ [OL KH` `V\ ^PSS HSZV OH]L [OL VWWVY[\UP[` [V ÄUK V\[ TVYL HIV\[ [OL S\_\Y` MHJPSP[PLZ ^OPJO ^PSS ZVVU IL VU VMMLY Z\JO HZ V\Y >LSSULZZ :WH HUK YLZ[H\YHU[ WS\Z [OL ]HYPV\Z Z\WWVY[ ZLY]PJLZ which we provide.
:H[\YKH` [O 4HYJO | 10am – 2pm :HSLZ 4HYRL[PUN :\P[L >PSSV^ 7HYR >H` (Z[VU VU ;YLU[ +LYI`ZOPYL +, +For more information please contact:
01332 895749
www.richmond-villages.com/aston
VILLAGE BROOK CLEAN-UP COMPLETED
RESIDENTS can now put a big tick against the task to clean up the village brook after a further session took place in January. As we have previously reported, a Breedon Flood Action Group was formed after the disastrous floods in June last year, under the guidance of parish councillor Dave Camp. The objective of the group was to clear the brook, and focus specifically on various ‘pinch points’ along its length. The job was tackled in three phases: firstly the stretch between Worthington Lane and The Lime Kilns; then the stretch between the Lime Kilns and Pear Tree Mews; and finally, the stretch between Pear Tree Mews and Brookside Caravans. The last of these was completed in January with the biggest turn-out yet of residents with rolled-up sleeves. One big difficulty was getting rid of the massive amount of rubbish, but local skip-hire business Tom Toon & Daughters stepped in and very kindly agreed to donate three skips free of charge. Although the brook is now flowing very freely in the stretches that have been cleared, some further work remains on the stretch between Worthington Lane and the back of The Dovecote. Discussions are taking place within the action group to repeat the task annually.
New bus stop idea to combat road danger
PROPOSALS are on the table to put a bus stop on Cockshut Lane as a safety measure because of the volume of cars parked near Melbourne Sports Park. The idea has been put forward by county councillor Linda Chilton after complaints that so many cars were parking on the busy road to gain access to the new facilities, that it was becoming dangerous. The county council’s highways department is also considering whether to put double yellow lines down Cockshut Lane.
Cllr Chilton, speaking at the most recent meeting of Melbourne Parish Council, said: “I have had so much contact with people on the situation with parking at the sports park, I’ve asked county (the county council) if we can have a bus shelter halfway down. “Traffic is coming down a lot faster than 40 miles per hour. “I’ve asked for a simple one, and they are doing some research on Cockshut Lane … they are now going to assess the suitability of the site.” – LS
Tally-ho for the hunt
MEMBERS of the Quorn Hunt took part in a tradition spanning several centuries when they set out from Melbourne Hall. It was a fine sunny morning when the hunt met at the hall on Wednesday, February 9. Named after Quorn village where hounds were kept for around 150 years, the Quorn Hunt lays claim to being one of the country’s oldest – having been formed in 1696 by Thomas Boothby of Tooley Park in Leicestershire. The Hunting Act 2004 controls the hunting of wild mammals with dogs. Drag hunting, where dogs follow chemical trails, is the legally permitted substitute.
Village Voice February 2017 7
Inspiring looks for your window Venetians, Verticals, Rollers, Romans, Curtains and Awnings Perfect fit, Conservatory Blinds and Shutters.
Call us now for a free no obligation quotation. Evening and weekend appointments always available.
Marathon Blinds & Shutters Chellaston, Derby DE73 6WP
01332 703759 Mobile 07799 062994 www.marathonblindsandshutters.co.uk
Kay Beardsley Counselling Mobile: 07759 930346 Email: kay@kaybeardsleycounselling.co.uk www.kaybeardsleycounselling.co.uk BACP REGISTERED
Based in Melbourne, Derby
Cheshire home’s history in photos
8 Village Voice February 2017
ARCHIVE photographs charting the history of the Leonard Cheshire home from when it started in the 1950s at Staunton Harold Hall are on display at a free exhibition this month. The show is being held at Sharpe’s Pottery Museum in Swadlincote until March 6 – with an additional talk on Staunton Harold Hall’s history on Wednesday, March 8, at 2pm. The photos are showcased alongside a never-been-seen film of the charity’s founder, Leonard Cheshire, talking about the early years at Staunton Harold Hall. Staunton Harold was the family seat of the Earls Ferrers whose dwindling fortunes led to it being put up for auction in the 1950s, when it was
Sleigh tours raise £1.6k
RIGHT: Leonard Cheshire and Sue Ryder plant a tree at Staunton Harold Hall. TOP: A rock band plays at Staunton Harold in the 1960s. ABOVE: Balloon blowing by Swadlincote Round Table for a summer fete in the 1950s.
Hidden Revealed at Calke Abbey Many secrets are yet to be uncovered in Calke Abbey’s seemingly abandoned rooms.
=bjYgh][UhY \]XXYb ghcf]Yg Wc``YWh]cbg UbX gdUWYg fYjYU`YX Zcf h\Y žfgh h]aY h\]g mYUf before exploring forgotten views of the estate. Visit our website for more information on new discoveries, changes and seasonal highlights.
Calke on Camera Walk - Hidden Shots Revealed Sat 18 February 10.30 – 12.30 and ‘Kids with Cameras’ from 13.30 – 14.30
Join us on this photography walk as we explore some of the lesser known areas of the park and gardens. Bring along your camera and be inspired by the beauty of the estate, and pick up some handy tips along the way.
At the Water’s Edge
bought by Leonard Cheshire – a result of fund-raising across three counties to secure the historic building. By 1955 the hall was the fifth Leonard Cheshire home to open in the country, but in 1985 its residents moved 10 miles away to a purposebuilt centre at Newlands House in South Derbyshire. The hall was then converted into a Sue Ryder hospice which closed in 2002, and it was then bought by current incumbents the Blunt family. The photographic exhibition has been made possible through Leonard Cheshire Disability’s Rewind Project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which gives people the chance to learn more about the charity’s history.
THE Santa’s Sleigh tours around Melbourne and other villages have raised £1,600 for local charities. The popular tours were carried out by Melbourne Rugby Club players and supporters, led by Gary Lakin. The money is being split between three charities: Melbourne Community Care; Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance; and Melbourne Sporting Partnership. Pictured is Steve Hollingsworth, Melbourne Rugby Club Director, presenting a cheque for £530 to Christine Lee and Adrienne Towle from Melbourne Community Care.
GARDEN OPEN FOR CHARITY
THOSE willing to brave the cold are advised that the Dower House garden, just off Church Square, Melbourne, is opening in aid of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) charities on the weekend of February 18-19. The NGS scheme raises money for several national charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Carers Trust, The Queen’s Nursing Institute and Parkinson’s UK. Last year visitors to Derbyshire’s gardens con-
tributed £63,000 to the £3million total raised nationally by the NGS scheme. At the Dower House there will be coffee, tea and cake in the greenhouse and a welcoming fire in the cottage where visitors can warm themselves after their visit. The garden is open from 10am to 4pm on both days. Admission is £3 but children are free, and dogs are allowed on leads.
Thurs 2 March 14.00
Join the countryside team to learn a little more about the wonderful wetland habitats of Calke Park, why h\Ym UfY \YfY UbX h\Y k]`X`]ZY h\Ym giddcfh" AYYh Uh h\Y h]W_Yh cŹWY"
That’s right, the most thorough cleaning ever. My carpet and upholstery cleaning is the best and most thorough you could ever have – if you don’t agree I won’t accept your payment.
Fine Food Fair
Sun 19 March 11.00 – 16.00
Celebrate local food that’s grown, raised, baked or caught within a thirty mile radius. Enjoy cooking demonstrations and tastings with our Calke chefs.
By becoming a member of the National Trust, you help us to protect the country’s heritage and landscape, while enjoying free entry to over 500 places. Here at Calke Abbey, membership supports our conservation work both in the house and gardens, as well as the internationally important protected parkland. 8Vaa ^chʩ h]Z I^X`Zh DŹXZ [ʩf ^c[ʩfbVh^ʩc# Calke Abbey spring opening Restaurant & Shop: daily 10.00 – 16.00, and 10.00 – 17.00 from 4 March Park & National Nature Reserve: daily 7.30 – 19.30 House: daily from 4 March, 12.30 – 17.00; taster tours available 11.00 – 12.30 Gardens: daily, 10.00 – 17.00 Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke for more information Normal park admission applies to all visitors. For more information on what’s on at Calke this spring please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke or telephone 01332 863822
“ You Get The Most Thorough Clean Ever Seen Or It’s Free”!
www.facebook.com/NTCalkeAbbey
Along with the purchase of your home and family car, your soft furnishings are one of the largest investments you will make. Professional cleaning of your furnishings on a regular basis will extend their life considerably as well as keeping them hygienic and looking good.
4 Reasons Why You Should Choose My Company To Clean & Protect Your Family’s Health 1. Thorough Cleaning – My method doesn’t leave any residue or cause shrinkage. It cleans down to the base of your carpet removing harmful bacteria leaving your carpet clean and healthy.
2. Honest Pricing – I promise no high-pressure sales gimmicks. The prices I quote you are fully inclusive of cleaning products and labour. A full complete clean AND no hidden extras.
3. Protection of your soft Furnishings - Your valuable soft furnishings will stay cleaner longer, vacuum easier and have improved stain resistance with our carpet and upholstery protectors.
4. Long Standing Reputation – My company enjoys a reputation which is second to none, many of our customers not only come back to us time and again but recommend us to their family and friends.
www.breedoncarpetcare.co.uk NOTE: WE DO NOT CHARGE VAT SAVE 20% min
@NTCalkeAbbey
)RU D )5(( 1R 2EOLJDWLRQ +HDOWK\ +RPH $XGLW &DOO &KULV :DNH¿HOG 2Q 01332 865565
Having a ball with Cinderella
Village Voice February 2017 9
Photo: Martin Stephens
CLUB
CARVERY
Watch power
BREEDON residents are being invited to a public meeting to form a Neighbourhood Watch Group. The meeting with the parish council and local police beat officers is being held on February 27 at St Hardulph’s Primary School from 7pm to 8.30pm.
BURTON 12pm - 2.30pm Tuesday - Saturday Soup & dessert alter daily
For more information visit:
www.TaphouseSmisby.co.uk
WE LL
£6.95 BY ASH
to intelligently adjust brightness. It’s very clever technology! At 63, Philip is not considering retiring any time soon either. He has another few designs up his sleeve which are currently being considered by the patent office. “Although our small unit is not high-tech as such, we all muck in together, and it provides employment for a small team. Nonetheless, we are working at the cutting edge of technology, but basically it remains a hobby for me,” he said. – Frank Hughes
A5 11
d oa yR
need.” Now the new beacons are installed at East Midlands Airport, Rolls-Royce and quite a few supermarket sites. They are also exported into Europe. One advantage is that they can be moved easily if the road layout changes without having to dig up power lines. Melissa Tate, factory manager, said they were “very proud of the award and how they had developed the product”. She added: “Partnership with Osram LED means that they can use the most advanced lights with the maximum brightness and using the minimum of power.” Inside the traditional yellow globe sits a lightweight modern battery, which stores power from a small solar power unit bolted onto the unit, a specially designed control unit and a unit which emits light, but also reads the level of ambient light
SOUP OR DESSERT
hb As
THE pedestrian crossing we take for granted is getting a makeover, thanks to the ingenuity of local inventor Philip Mitchell. Philip’s business, Ticknall Solar, has just been awarded a patent for a new design of Belisha Beacon which enables operation from solar energy 24 hours a day. “This means that they no longer need to be wired in but they can meet the Department for Transport requirements to operate both day and night, even in the darkest months of winter when there is not much sun,” Philip explained. Belisha Beacons have been around since the 1930s when transport minister Lesley Hoare-Belisha, aiming to reduce the growing number of road deaths, introduced the driving test, the 30mph speed limit in towns and pedestrian crossings. The public adopted the name Belisha Beacon soon after their introduction. But there was no “light bulb” moment as such. Philip (pictured at his factory) has been developing solar powered warning lights in his Swadlincotebased business for the past 20 years. “About 10 years ago we were approached by the Ministry of Defence, who wanted to put a pedestrian crossing in one of their historic dockyards, where there was no option to provide cabled power. After that project it was obvious that we needed to design a special power management control which met the
LUNCH
AN N
Solar so good for Philip ...
IT WAS Cinderella but not as you know it when young people from Melbourne and Ticknall took to the stage in Derby to perform panto like you’ve never seen before. The show was put on at the Robert Ludlam Theatre in Derby by Melbourne-based group Stage Left Drama, and took the audience on a journey that included poor old Cinders, her friendly mouse friends, and their age-old quest to get to the ball – via, of course, the Bake-Off tent. Children aged from six to 17 have spent months working on the show with drama leader Allison Hunt. Fairy tale characters including the gingerbread man, Thumbelina, Puss in Boots and the pied piper also put in an appearance to make sure Cinderella did get to the ball, whatever her mean stepmother had to say about it – not to mention those ugly stepsisters. But did she get the prince? We’re not saying. Allison, from Derby, has been running the Stage Left Drama for nine years. She said: “Each year we perform a full production and the children love taking part. The fact that we perform in a theatre with the stage lights and sound makes it very special.” Stage Left runs junior sessions for up to age 11 who meet at the Assembly Rooms in Melbourne from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on Wednesdays, with a group for those aged 11 and up from 6pm to 7pm. Spaces are available for any wannabe actors out there. Ring Allison on 07758 625372 for more.
T
or call us on: 01530 413604 ● Short or long term ● Commercial & domestic storage ● 24-Hour access ● 24-Hour on-site security/CCTV
01332 863729 Trent Lane, Kings Newton, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8BT info@newtonselfstorage.co.uk www.newtonselfstorage.co.uk
10 Village Voice February 2017
Your local butchers at Melbourne Hall Craft Centre. Local produce and excellent customer service. With a full range of Beef, Lamb, Pork and Chicken. Supplying easy pre pared meals and bundle packs to suit all your needs or cut to your exact requirements. Pre order and collect or just pop in. All our beef and lamb is grass fed and reared at Park Farm on the Melbourne Estate. We believe that the animals’ lifestyle has an important effect on the quality. We are farmers first and foremost, passionate about producing livestock resulting in flavoursome meats for you. Pop in to our new butchery, meet our team and see for yourself. Open in the Melbourne Hall Craft Centre Tue - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm, closed Sun | Local delivery available* Call 01332 585575 | Email orders@toriandbensfarm.co.uk @toriandbensfarm | toriandbensfarm.com | Tori and Ben’s Farm * Must be within a 5 mile radius of Melbourne. Minimum order £40.
Fight for soldier to b with a war grave is n
THE wheels have been set in motion for the final resting place of a First World War soldier buried in an unmarked grave in Melbourne Cemetery to be given an official headstone bearing his name – nearly a century after he died aged 23. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission is asking for anyone directly related to the soldier named Wallace Hatton to get in touch, so his grave can be fittingly marked and his sacrifice honoured. Private Hatton fought in the First World War in the Notts & Derby Regiment of the Sherwood Foresters. His name is marked on the Melbourne cenotaph, along, poignantly, with his one son William Wallace – whom he would only have met as a baby – and who was Melbourne’s first Second World War casualty when he was killed in France in 1940, aged 21. Although Wallace’s grave may at one time have been marked with a wooden cross, there is not one there now and a simple urn is all that marks the spot. Local researcher Adrian Earp submitted Wallace’s details to the commission so his case could be considered for a war grave. The commission commemorates those who died in world wars one and two – the end date for the first world war being August 31, 1921, as
hostilities were not officially declared over until then. Born in Melbourne in 1896, Wallace was the only child of market gardener William Hatton and wife Lizzie. Existing details from his early life tell us the family was living in Victoria Street in 1901 and that by the time he was 15, in 1911, he was himself employed as a market gardener and living in Commerce Street with his father – his mother at the time living in Blackpool with her sister and brother-in-law Frederick Loake, a boot manufacturer from Melbourne.
How the book took
Author of the book ADRIAN EARP gives a background of how he gathered the information.
From a small pet to a smallholding we look after your pets when you are away
Trained, fully insured carers to look after your pets in their own home
Dog holidays
Cat Care
with our host families (The alternative to a cattery)
Dog Walking Pet Transport Pet Cremation
07876 327764 www.animalsathome.co.uk/east-midlands
STINSONS Independent Funeral Directors
• • • • • • •
24 Hour service available day day or night Arrangements made in the comfort of yyoour own home Tailored fun funerals to suit your requirements Private viewing suites Pre paid fun funeral plans Wills & estate management service Memorials & monumental work undertaken
l Wallace’s unmarked grave in Melbourne cemetery.
MY RESEARCH into WW1 casualties carried out about four or five years ago showed that very few service records of Melbourne men had survived the fires of the 1940 Blitz. Very little information regarding Wallace was clear except for the facts that he was listed with the Melbourne men serving in November 1914, was a Sherwood Forester reported missing in 1918, and who was recorded on the War Memorial. Even the Sherwood Foresters’ archive only recorded his service number but not the battalion in which he served. When his death was traced to late 1919 it seemed that he was probably one of several men who had succumbed to the Spanish Flu pandemic. The breakthrough in finding out more came with the memorial card
info@stinsonsofwhitwick.co.uk www.stinsonsfuneralcare.co.uk 44a Borough Street, Castle Donington DE74 2LB
which was found by MHRG member Jean Grimley among her late mother’s possessions. This in itself was a mystery since there was no family connection with Wallace Hatton. Later research showed that Jean’s grandfather, William Henry Walker, had obviously been a friend and comrade in the same battalion since their service numbers were consecutive. The memorial card contained not only the only known photograph of Wallace but the fact that he had died of wounds received on the first day of the German spring offensive. This along with the proof provided by the death certificate was sufficient for the CWGC, after verification by Army researchers, to grant him War Grave status in November 2014. Following an article in the Village Voice, I was contacted by Michael Loake regarding a scrapbook of newspaper cuttings from WW1 which had been compiled by
his gran who ha aunt. This b erences picture showin 1916. T elsewhe after th land du More also con count o life as count, w dictated blind W very few ten by therefor The C uous pr morials cut at t is hoped Melbou for inst
WENDY’S Lomas Opticians COURTYARD INTERIORS Made to measure curtains, valances, pelmets, tie-backs and cushions, etc. Velvets, prints and plain fabrics by . . . ★ Sanderson ★ Hardys ★ Harlequin ★ Richard Barrie ★ Montgomery ★ Villa Nova ★ Nina Campbell ★ Prestigious ★ Liberty ★ Osbourne & Little and many more
★ All types of Tracks, Poles & Accessories Co-ordinate your home with our Soft Furnishing Service
Telephone: 01332 810370
Wallace joined up on Octo posted to Ireland at the tim been then hospitalised in la on February 27, 1917, after bury Plain. On October 21 in ried in Melbourne a hosier Moore. Wallace was injured in th first day of the German Spr a prisoner of war. He was o
Home Measuring Service Call in and see our huge range of blinds (including Venetian, Vertical, Roman and Pleated) together with our fantastic selection of wallpaper BULLENS COURTYARD, MILL LANE MEWS, ASHBY-DE-LA-ZOUCH 01530 411078
Local, prof ofessional essional care by GOC registered Opticians Mr. M. S. Lomas BSc MSc MBCO Mrs. J. Lomas FBDO In Melbourne
k Home visits for the housebound Since 1993 k Private and NHS examinations k Free tests and specs for pre-school to teens Opening Times: k Budget, fashion, designer frames Monday, Tuesday, k Sunspecs, sportswear ear,, safety specs Thursday & Friday k Over 300 styles to view 9.00am - 4.00pm Saturday k Comprehensive lens choice dispensed by qualified opticians 9.00am - 12.30pm k Specialist low vision aids and magnifiers Closed Wednesday
1 Chapel Street, Melbourne, Derbyshire Telephone: 01332 865021
be honoured nearly over
ober 15, 1914, and was first me of the uprising. Having ate 1916 he went to France a spell of training on Salisn the previous year, he marry worker named Florence
shape
he eye in March 1918 on the ring Offensive, and taken as operated on in Germany for
Village Voice February 2017 11
Coppice
Boarding Kennels & Cattery We are friendly establishment located on the outskirts of rural Melbourne offering comfortable, secure accommodation, daily exercise sessions, playtime and love from our knowledgeable and experienced staff. We welcome dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes and invite owners to visit by appointment to see our facilities.
shell splinters in both eyes, shoulders and left arm. After being repatriated in December 1918 and awarded the Silver War Badge signifying honourable discharge, he continued treatment at the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary and died on December 2, 1919, from septicaemia caused by the splinter in his eye – despite the success of the operation itself. A Derby Telegraph report from the time tells readers that he was awarded a full military funeral in Melbourne’s Wesleyan chapel. The report says: “He leaves a widow and child to mourn their loss. He had been a scholar in the Sunday school and was an exemplary young man and is greatly missed by a large circle of relatives and friends.” Wallace’s father died in 1943 and is buried in the same plot. His mother lived to the age of 93 and Florence re-married in 1934. Any family member of Wallace Hatton is asked to contact Mo Russell at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission on 01628 507193 or email enquiries@cwgc.org – Lucy Stephens (Pictures reproduced by kind permission of the authors of In Memoriam, Commemorating the Men of Melbourne who died in the Great War and members of the Melbourne Historical Research Group MHRG)
To book or arrange a viewing please contact us...
01332 862770 info@coppice-kennels.co.uk
Blackwell Lane, Melbourne, Derbyshire DE73 8EL www.coppice-kennels.co.uk
LEFT: Wallace pictured in the bed on the left in hospital in 1916 and (above) the memorial card found in Melbourne.
Christian Rose
ndmother, Mrs Sarah Loake, ppened also to be Wallace`s
book contains numerous refs to Melbourne including the s from the Daily Sketch g Wallace in hospital in This incident, unrecorded ere, would have occurred he battalion`s service in Ireuring the Easter Rising. e importantly, the scrapbook ntains the handwritten acof Wallace’s wounding and a prisoner of war. This acwhich was almost certainly d to his aunt by the almost Wallace, must be one of the w such accounts to be writan ordinary soldier and is, re, historically important. CWGC carries out a continrogramme of replacing mes and all new headstones are their workshops at Arras. It d that the new headstone for urne Cemetery will be ready allation later this year.
Voted Best Kennels in Derbyshire
VIOLINS
Violins Violas Cellos and musical gifts
n RAPUNZEL, Rapunzel, let down your hair – the long-haired damsel of fairytale fame was the subject of this year’s charity panto performed in Aston-onTrent. Written by locals Toby Bradford and Tina Webster, this year’s show included a cast of around 25 including local children, and was performed by the Aston Players at the village’s Memorial Hall. As is annually the case, all profits will be donated to local good causes, with this year’s beneficiaries being Rainbows and Treetops hospices. Panto directors Julia James and Richard Chamberlain said they were highly delighted with the show. Richard said: “How thrilling it has been to work on this year’s pantomime. The cast and crew put on an amazing performance of this very well locally written
script.” The production included many songs from the past and present all performed by Aston Players regulars, including John Sibley, who delighted the crowds in his role as Dame Beatrix Bouffant. Jess Lemon and Katie Wilkinson played Prince Fredrick and Rapunzel respectively, with Catherine Jackson supporting them as Valet Frankie, and Rob Wilkinson, Hazel Armstrong, Jamie Armstrong and Julia James performing too. Local children led by Barbara Upton and Rachel Chamberlain sang and danced as spiders and squirrels. Directors also said they would like to recognise the “fabulous” technical team comprising stage manager Ian Dunn, with sound and lighting provided by local techies Richard Chamberlain and Nathan Powell.
Melbourne Operatic Society proudly presents Gilbert & Sullivan’s
Melbourne Operatic Society
Unit 8, Melbourne Hall Visitor Centre, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8EN
Tel: 07986 593340 www.christianroseviolins.co.uk
JOHN SMITH (MELBOURNE) LTD.
Large, purpose built, heated dog kennels and cat chalets in Ingleby. Large, secure, grass exercise paddocks for ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚ ĚŽŐƐ͕ ĂůůŽǁŝŶŐ ĂĐƟǀĞ Žƌ ƐĞĚĂƚĞ ƚŽ ďĞ ĞdžĞƌĐŝƐĞĚ to their requirements. &Žƌ ǀŝƐŝƟŶŐ ĐĂƚƐ͕ ĐŽŵĨŽƌƚĂďůĞ ĐŚĂůĞƚƐ ǁŝƚŚ ǀŝĞǁŝŶŐ ǁŝŶĚŽǁƐ ĂŶĚ ŽƵƚƐŝĚĞ ƌƵŶƐ͘ Now taking day boarding dogs which includes socialisŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ Žī ůĞĂĚ ĞdžĞƌĐŝƐŝŶŐ ŝŶ ŽƵƌ ůĂƌŐĞ ĞŶĐůŽƐĞĚ paddocks.
COAL & SMOKELESS FUEL MERCHANTS
WED 5—SAT 8 APRIL 2017 at 7.30pm Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton Fully staged with full orchestra Minibus service available from: Melbourne, Diseworth & Castle Donington on Wed 5 & Thu 6 / Call 07980 421453
Contact us: 01332 862796
O Prompt delivery to all local areas O Competitive Prices O Pre-Packed Cash & Carry Sales from The Yard O Also Logs and Kindling
Registered Charity No. 257243 / A member of NODA / melbourneoperaticsociety.com
Price (incl. booking fee) £12 / £11 Concessions / Free for those 16yrs and under (if accompanied by an adult)
Booking & Tickets MOS website / Call 01332 875350 or 07763 278981 / Visit the Chatsworth Arts Centre (Saturday mornings only)
The Common, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8HU
Tel. 01332 862744
Village Voice Postbag
12 Village Voice February 2017
Promotional areas?
A COUPLE of years ago we ‘adopted’ one of the planted areas in Melbourne car park, having first ascertained that we were unlikely to incur the wrath of the local authority. It cost a few hundred pounds to clear and plant up, and a small amount in annual maintenance.
Looking at the dreadful state of other areas today I wonder if some of the local businesses might consider taking one in hand. We elected not to advertise ourselves, but others may find it a useful promotional tool. John Blunt The Staunton Harold Estate
Helping hands I WOULD like to thank Joshua and all the concerned people who stayed with me until the paramedics arrived after my fall at the top of Chapel Street in Melbourne, on Wednesday, January 18. Also Ollie at the Spar shop and the lady who provided a blanket. I was checked over in hospital and allowed home. Many thanks Dorothy Forman
Steve’s CD tribute to rock icon
Do you have an issue you wish to write to us about? See Page 18 for ways in which you can contact us.
A LABOUR of love celebrating 50s and 60s rock n’ roll icon, Gene Vincent, has been produced by Aston-on-Trent musician Steve Aynsley, in the form of a painstakingly produced double album featuring a never-before-released recording. Steve, a retired engineer from Rolls-Royce, has a lifelong passion for music and has been a fan of Gene Vincent ever since he saw him on screen for the first time in 1957, in a film called “The Girl Can’t Help It”, in which Vincent and the Blue Caps sang their hit song “Be Bop A Lula”. Now he has just launched a new double album in tribute to the singer, called “A Piece at a Time”. “A Piece at a Time” is the title of a Gene Vincent track that has never before been heard, discovered on acetate by a German fan, who bought it on Ebay. The acetate was so badly damaged it was virtually impossible to listen to, but Bear Family Records from Germany managed to clean it up. Steve, who is well known in Aston for organising the village’s annual Astonbury festival as well as sitting on various committees including the Well Dressing, also sings on several tracks on the album, which was produced at The Snug in Derby. The opening track is his own tribute song, “Gégène”. So why Gene Vincent? “I saw him many times in Newcastle in the 1960s,” said Steve. “I met him once after a show at the Majestic Ballroom. He was wonderful, absolutely wonderful. Close up he looked absolutely amazing, his hair was to die for – I learned later he used to get it cut by an Italian hairdresser in London. “I just became a massive fan. In 1980 I decided to re-form his fan club (Vincent died in 1971 aged only 36). The fan club grew and grew, a lot of famous people became members – Vince Eager, Joe Brown, Terry Dean and performers such as Robert Plant, Paul McCartney, John Lodge from The Moody Blues and, outside the music industry, Neil Kinnock!” Things gathered pace and Steve got the chance to perform on the 1980s music show, “The Tube”, with Jools Holland and Paula Yates, where his group included Chas Hodges from Chas n’ Dave with Ian Dury delivering a monologue tribute. The CD has taken four years to come together and is a culmination of many hours of hard work. But for Steve, it’s all worth it to honour a great musician who died tragically young. He added: “I couldn’t have done this without the help of other people – John Beecher, who agreed to put it out on his label, Roger Nunn, who did the artwork, and Richard Collins at The Snug in Derby.” – Lucy Stephens
Developing landscapes
AT ITS January meeting Melbourne Civic Society was treated to an enlightening talk by Philip Heath on the historical development of four different landscapes in the local area. All were attached to well known large houses. Melbourne Hall's setting changed over the years but still retains its famous 18th century garden, wrought ironwork and created poolside vista. Calke Abbey incorporated its separate Deer Park with its open field frontage to become a pastoral park with its now venerated ancient trees and lime avenue. King’s Newton Hall also extended to create a serene rural setting, while Newton Solney Park Hotel incorporated an existing old house built by Abraham Hoskins in the early 1800s. He set about creating his own rural idyll in a more intimate setting. The next meeting will travel further back in time to the founding of the Knights Hospitallers in medieval times in a talk given by Dr. Tony Bethel on February 13, at Melbourne Assembly Rooms.
Call goes out to litter pickers
VOLUNTEER litter pickers are being invited to help clean up the road from Melbourne to Stanton-by-Bridge. The litter pick is being organised by the Melbourne Civic Society on March 4, as part of Keep Britain Tidy’s nationwide Great British Spring Clean campaign. Litter picking sticks and sacks can be collected from 10am on the day from the front of Melbourne Assembly Rooms. It is hoped other community groups will join forces with the civic society – and, as well as that, volunteers are advised by the society that they are welcome to branch out on their own and borrow picking sticks at any other time. Contact 01332 865760 or by emailing pamadams56@yahoo.co.uk for details.
National award for landscaping firm
A MELBOURNE garden landscaping company has been recognised in a prestigious national awards ceremony. PB Landscapes came highly commended in the Judges’ Special Recognition category at the national Bradstone Assured Awards, held at the Roundhouse in Derby. The awards had sections for best patio and driveway transformation. PB Landscapes owner Paul Bignall was presented with his commendation by celebrity TV garden landscaper David Domoney and Bradstone’s commercial director, Toby Stuart-Jervis, in front of 90 landscaping professionals.
Backwards move for lorry drivers
LORRY drivers are having to reverse for two miles down the narrow road leading to Weston-on-Trent because of an unsigned low bridge. The latest meeting of the Melbourne Area Forum heard how the low bridge on Swarkestone Road, just outside Weston, was taking HGV drivers by surprise and forcing them into awkward and lengthy reverse manoeuvres. PC Oliver Priddle told the meeting: “The low bridge on the approach is not currently signed – HGVs using that road are having to conduct a reversing manoeuvre of about two miles.” The meeting heard that Derbyshire County Council had agreed to put up signs warning drivers of the low bridge.
Frank’s top brass – thanks to school
Government funded sessions available
with the Uganda orphanage project has been a remarkable achievement, and is set to continue for at least the next few years. Lead teacher and organiser Richard Karran said: “We have just completely rebuilt the original house, and this year added a shower block and extension to the building. But there is still ongoing work to maintain it and this year’s group are now starting the annual process of fund-raising and developing the skills they need.” One of this year’s group, Kezia Jozefiak, said she had been “really moved by the stories Frank had told in assembly, which had everyone in tears. Knowing you are going to be a part of helping other young people build their lives is just an amazing opportunity”. With plans for sky-diving, casino nights and bake sales, each of the 25 pupils going on the trip will need to raise the necessary £2,500 to fund it. The wider benefits children get from the trip are self-evident with the strength of relationship former pupils still have with the project. Becky Thurston, who was there in 2011, has recently returned from working in India and is now looking to get a job helping refugees in Sheffield. Ben Jones, who was a student on the first trip in 2006, is now teaching at Chellaston Juniors and is again part of the Uganda project. Frank spent the day with pupils and staff and had a message of thanks to all those who supported the project. “I really don’t know how to thank them enough … they are all my brothers and sisters.” – Frank Hughes
Teacher led quality day care for babies and young children in a stimulating environment where learning is fun. We're Open 7.30am - 6.00pm Monday to Friday
l Frank Kalema in front of the Ugandan flag with young people who have been involved in the Chellaston Academy Ugandan project.
IT WAS a very special day at Chellaston Academy both for Frank Kalema from Uganda and the many staff and pupils involved with their African orphanage project. Ten years ago the young Frank was spotted alone playing an instrument in the shade of a tree in the outskirts of Kampala. Today he is a renowned musician – “probably the best euphonium player in Africa” – and on a study tour of the UK. This transformation has been possible only through the intervention of the Chellaston Uganda project, which has built and funded an orphanage to help children just like Frank. Frank described his life in Uganda: “I had never had two meals in one day; life in Katwe before the orphanage was one with no hope – I never even had a dream.” But, after getting the opportunity as one of the first group of children in the John Dickens’ house at the age of 12, his life changed. “It is a dream to be here in Chellaston; I had saved small coins in a tin for four years just to get enough for a passport, and now, I just can’t believe it is true.” In the orphanage Frank was spotted by a sister charity, Brass for Africa, which helps disadvantaged young people in Africa through brass music. They have sponsored the ‘inspiration tour’ visit and have organised opportunities for Frank to play with various bands, including the Cory Band, ranked the No.1 brass band in the world. The 10-year association of Chellaston Academy
Village Voice February 2017 13
Scally’s School Clubs Breakfast, After School and Holiday Clubs for children up to 11 years of age. Places available for babies from 12 weeks to 11 years old
Meet Our Friendly staff Team! 01332 862188 | Castle Lane, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8EJ www.scallywagsnursery.com | melbourne@scallywagsnursery.com
Causeway lorry signs
14 Village Voice February 2017
FOUR-METRE high signs designed to deter HGVs from crossing Swarkestone Causeway are planned to be put in the ground before the end of March. The problem of heavy vehicles crossing the ancient causeway has been a problem for a long time, with drivers handed fines when caught flouting the 7.5 tonne weight restriction. The latest area forum meeting held at Melbourne Sports Park on January 24 heard from Derbyshire County Council highways officers, who gave an update as to when the new Vehicle Activated Signs (VAS) signs would be installed. The meeting heard that three signs would be erected on either side of the causeway warning HGV drivers of the weight restriction, with the intention being they will be placed far enough from the causeway that drivers would be able to travel a different way and not cross over. Neil Bennett, from the county council’s high-
ways department, told the meeting: “We installed traffic monitoring equipment on the south side of the causeway about five years ago. That did confirm there was a problem of overweight vehicles using the bridge more than they should be.” There are exemptions to the new VAS signs, such as buses and farmers with land on either side of the causeway who need to get access with farm vehicles.
New club takes root
MELBOURNE’S new gardening club will hold its first meeting at the Senior Citizens’ Centre on Thursday, February 16 at 7pm. Anyone is welcome to hear Lesley Hough outline what the club intends to focus on, what its new members want and to find out when future meetings will take place.
n THIS summer in Melbourne it’ll be time to dust down those neon leg warmers and put the shoulder pads back in – because it’s “Back to the 80s” at this year’s carnival. The 2017 summer shingdig may not be happening until July 8 but the committee is already hard at work getting everything arranged for the big day with the 80s theme in mind. Expect favourites like the baking competition to make a re-appearance plus the traditional wide array of stalls and children’s
GRACE DIEU MANOR SCHOOL An Independent Catholic School welcoming all faiths
Nursery
Prep School
12 weeks-4 years
4-11 years
Open Mornings 9.30am – 1pm 3rd March 31st March 5th May
Our new Nursery offers superb care for children aged 12 weeks-4 years Open all year (50 weeks) from 7.30am-6pm for full & part-time sessions A safe and homely setting with highly trained and experienced staff Now accepting 15 hours FEEE Government Funding & Childcare Vouchers
Prep School for children aged 4-11 Acres of space to grow, learn & play with Forest School and all of our extensive sports facilities on-site Small classes with specialist teaching in Sport, Music, Art, Drama & Languages Free wrap-around care 8am-6pm and Breakfast Club available from 7.30am
Located in 120 acres of idyllic parkland in Thringstone, circa 15 minutes from Loughborough, Coalville & Ashby de la Zouch. School buses available & plenty of parking for a stress free school run! Visit www.gracedieu.com or our Facebook page, call 01530 222276 or email registrar@gracedieu.com for more information
rides to enjoy. Carnival chair Tracey Ridley said: “It’s a really exciting theme and everyone seems to be buzzing about it. It’s going to be a very vibrant and fun day.” Pictured are carnival committee members: (left to right, back row) Andy Owens, Rhona Kirkham, Rachel Hill, Sarah Stainthorpe, Pip Cole; front row Gemma Holden, Gemma Bettelley (secretary), Tracey Ridley, Chris Peat (treasurer) and Rebecca Stead.
Collapsed pipe clue to flooding?
WATER pipework under Sweet Leys Way on Melbourne’s Station Road is believed to have partly collapsed. The latest floods meeting held at the Assembly
Rooms in Melbourne heard from a representative from Davidson’s, the housebuilder which erected the homes on the estate. It was the first time that Davidson’s had been represented at the series of meetings started many months ago in response to serious flooding in Melbourne. Sam Callaghan, from Davidson’s, said: “On Sweet Leys Way, we have an existing pipe coming from Station Road – there is a section of this pipe that we believe has collapsed.” The issue was discovered when cameras were sent down the pipes. As reported in November’s Village Voice, flooding experts have been awarded £80,000 in grant funding to create a computer model which will aid understanding as to why Melbourne floods. Melbourne is built on a steepsided catchment which makes it vulnerable to extreme weather, but it is hoped that a long-term LEADERS of a charity-run pre-school group are celebrating after solution may be found which winning two certificates for the quality of their work – plus £1,200 will help limit the extent of any to provide hi-vis jackets for youngsters and new equipment. damage. Breedon Play & Learn, a pre-school for two to four-year-olds, has Meanwhile, there was relief won a Play Champion Award plus Healthy Tots status. on Sweet Leys Way – an area of Breedon Play & Learn was also given the £1,200 grant from the the estate badly hit by floods Co-op, and it has been used to buy new equipment and hi-visibility over the summer – that a possijackets. ble cause of the problem had Pre-school manager Sammi Gillham said: “The children are over the moon with this and have enjoyed exploring the local community perhaps been found close to in their new jackets. We cannot thank the Co-op enough and are their homes. Sweet Leys Way resident Gill so thrilled with their generosity.” Breedon Play & Learn has places available for two to four-year- Ashworth told the Village Voice: “I’m hoping this will resolve olds. Sammi Gillham (left) is pictured with Amanda Lenton and their everything and that everything certificates. will be sorted now.”
Double joy for pre-school
Builders home in on village
ASTON-on-Trent will expand by up to 42 more homes after councillors unanimously agreed they should be built – but now different developers are asking to put as many as 150 more in the village. At January’s South Derbyshire District Council Planning Committee meeting in Swadlincote proposals for up to 42 homes on Moor Lane in Aston were given the green light. The parcel of land had been earmarked for housing in the Local Plan – the document that sets out where houses can be built in this area – but council planners had also received 44 letters of objection from residents and the parish council. Only one resident wrote in support of the proposals. The rest had outlined lengthy complaints. Local people said too many homes were being proposed – the number originally allocated by housing chiefs for that section of land being 37, which was then increased to 42 – that the land flooded; that school and doctors’ provision was stretched; and that the development created access points to further fields leading to fears they would be built on too. Resident Rob Bell told the meeting that the site was actively used agricultural land currently outside the village boundary. “We don’t think that this area is necessary to be approved and should be rejected,” he said. In addition, he said people feared for the safety of children from construction traffic turning into the site which was only 100 yards from Aston-on-Trent Primary School. Dr Robert Wickham, a chartered surveyor speaking on behalf of the developer, said: “It’s a sustainable site in a key service village, it’s not in any way premature – it’s part of the planning process.” The development features one and a half storey homes on one side to mitigate the impact on neighbours. Aston councillor Peter Watson told the meeting: “We have gone through many years to produce a Local Plan of which part one has been approved and we’re in the process of doing part two – this particular site has been designated as an area for housing in Aston … looking at the
drawing, the developer has come up with a very attractive proposal.” Voting to green light the plans, councillors also asked for an orchard to be created on site which would help soak up water. In addition, the developer will pay £91,192.08 to create more classroom space at Aston’s primary school, plus £158,940.72 to accommodate pupils at Chellaston Academy, and £15,977 to build two extra treatment rooms at Alvaston GP surgery, which is where Aston patients go. Meanwhile, Aston’s residents have received leaflets through their doors informing them of proposals by Gladman developers to build up to 150 homes on Weston Road. Gladman’s leaflet told readers: “We are the most successful land promoter in the UK, obtaining planning permission on over 90% of the sites we promote.” The developer has suggested that, as well as devoting 30 per cent of the site to affordable homes, it will also provide land for a new GP surgery for Aston. Sharon Bowler, chair of local residents’ group SAVE, told the Village Voice: “We are very disappointed that developers seem to think they can flout the rules of the Local Plan. The Local Plan is there to protect everybody and it’s disappointing that they think they can just bombard their way through. “It’s far too many houses for Aston. We were allocated 42 under Plan 2 and we were allocated Richmond Homes – the housing that’s going on the hospital site. “I’m not saying we are full up, everybody has to expand, but we have had our fair share and we are going to lose our village feel if we keep expanding too quickly.” – Lucy Stephens
40s music night
BREEDON WI is holding a 40s night of music and supper with Natalie Nightingale at Melbourne Assembly Rooms on April 7. The Breedon ladies started their programme this year with a talk from Alan Tyler from the National Trust, who presented an illustrated tour of Calke Abbey.
Brizlincote
Sealed Sealed aled Unit Uni U nit Replacement nit Replac Repl Re plac acemen emen emen entt Specialists Spec Sp Specia Specialist Speciali ecia ec ialist iali lists sts st s
Village Voice February 2017 15
The feet of learning
l SITTING COMFORTABLY ... Toby Fern, Lois Toone, Lacey Green and Jacob Reynolds with teacher Samantha Johnson.
THE head of a small Derbyshire primary school which made international headlines after allowing children to wear slippers in the classroom has said staff were “stunned” by the media attention attracted by the unusual learning policy. Findern Primary School was featured extensively on national TV and in the print press because of its policy of “shoelessness”, launched after the school found it improved children’s learning. The story even found its way into overseas titles such as The Indian Express and Nigeria Sun. Head teacher Emma Titchener said: “We have been stunned by the media attention, particularly when we were not only in virtually every national newspaper and on almost every major television channel and radio station, but also in the international press, too. “It was an amazing experience for the children, who were so excited. The support from our parents and carers has been unprecedented and we are very grateful for this. “Hopefully no-one will ever say, so where is Findern Primary School after this week!”
Findern Primary School is trialling a policy of children wearing slippers inside its school building after Mrs Titchener read research by Bournemouth University which found significant benefits to children’s learning in a “shoeless environment”. While slipper-wearing is not compulsory in the school at the moment, it may become so in the future if it is found to be of learning benefit. Mrs Titchener said: “We have very high expectations of our children's behaviour and academic performance and this is not a school uniform issue, it is only about enhancing our children's learning. Our children outperform the national average at the end of key stage two. However, we are a forward thinking school, where we believe in considering current educational research and implementing changes that will make a difference to the education of our pupils. “Children are more receptive to learning when they are comfortable and calm. We have found that children are more relaxed and comfortable when wearing slippers in school and this makes them more receptive to learning and therefore more likely to learn.”
Open 7am to 8pm ~ Every Day ~ Dog Hairs Grooming Room
DOUBLE GLAZING ALL MISTED UP?
Local Self Storage
White Hollows Studio TICKNALL - DERBYS - DE73 7JN
PICTURE FRAMER AND RESTORER Fine art maps, prints, fabric & memorabilia - Free quotes & advice on mounts and frames Botanical originals & prints always in stock
01332 862757 M: 07773 164277 E: michael.lakin579@btinternet.com
Prices from just
£60 per unit
Daytime Mob. 07814 616 802 Evenings Tel: 01283 568 997
1:1 Grooming in a caring environment 01332 865774 / 07989 799192
MICK LAKIN
Why replace the whole frame when you can just replace the sealed unit? • Full professional servicee • 15 years experience • 10 year guarantee • Free, no obligation quote te
Melbourne - Derbyshire sjwalsh@sky.com www.doghairs.co.uk
Just 3 Miles From Melbourne
www.wagtailstorage.co.uk Tel: 01530 222179
Clean Thinking office environments. No job too big or small. Av Available for contracts or one off cleans with pricing options available upon request. All Clean Thinking staff are DBS/CRB checked.
For a free quote contact Louise - 07411 061636
16 Village Voice February 2017
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Need a job done? Think local... BUILDERS
BUILDERS ■ EXTENSIONS ■ ALTERATIONS ■ JOINERY SERVICE ■ LOFT/GARAGE CONVERSIONS MELBOURNE ■ GENERAL BUILDING WORKS Over 25 years local time served tradesman
R&B Builders
FREE QUOTATIONS AND ADVICE
Tel: 01332 862718 or 07792 148390 www.randbbuildersmelbourne.co.uk
ESTABLISHED IN 1969
GARDENING AND TREE SERVICES
pb
"a reputation built on local recommendation"
ASBC
www.pblandscapes.co.uk
A L A N S TA L E Y B U I L D I N G C O N T R A C T O R S L T D .
Restoration and conservation of historic buildings Specialists in modern and traditional techniques Conversions and alterations Developments, new build and extensions
full design and construction service free quotations
landscapes of
melbourne
tel: 01332 862810 mobile: 07752 731708 20 quick close, melbourne, derbyshire de73 8gh
George W.
Heath
& Sons (Builders) Ltd
Approved Contractor
3 SWEET LEYS WAY, MELBOURNE DE73 8LE T: 01332 862356 M: 07966 978677 E: asbc@live.co.uk
ALL BESPOKE JOINERY AND CONSERVATION WORK UNDERTAKEN Castle Lane Industrial Estate, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8JB
Tel: 01332 865605 Fax: 01332 865614 Email admin@gwheath.com visit us at www.gwheath.com
MELBOURNE PROPERTY SERVICES ■ BLOCK PAVING ■ ALTERATIONS ■ GARDEN WALLS ■ NEW BUILDS ■ PATIOS
■ FASCIAS ■ SOFFITS ■ GUTTERING ■ FENCING ■ DRIVEWAYS
■ ROOF REPAIRS ■ LANDSCAPING ■ RENOVATIONS ■ CONSERVATORIES ■ EXTENSIONS
DCB ROOFING All types of roofing and repair work carried out Please call Dan Bowler for a quotation
07817 233407/01332 792497 PLASTERERS
For a free no obligation quote call Andy on...
01332 865674 - 07866 612787 www.melbournepropertyservices.co.uk Hand me a genuine quote and I will try and beat the price
Solhurst Construction BUILDING CONTRACTORS
Extensions ● Alterations ● New Builds
●
TEL: 01332 863571 MOB: 07813 932420 Woodlands Way, Melbourne
MTS FENCING
All aspects of Domestic, Commercial, Agricultural and Equine Fencing Fully insured – Free Quotations
Call 01283 226266 or 07971 948147 Email office@mts-fencing.co.uk
Pete Ross Plastering • Plaster Boarding • Dry Lining • Re-skimming Free Quotations
• Repair Work • Plastering • Rendering
call Pete
07735 567891 • 0115 946 2787
MISCELLANEOUS
peterross584@googlemail.com
POTTERS MINI SKIPS AND AGGREGATE SUPPLIERS LIMESTONE, BALLAST, SAND, GRAVEL, TOP SOIL MINIMUM ONE TON LOCAL DELIVERIES TEL: (01332) 701667 MOBILE: 07850 380 425
Village Voice February 2017 17
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PAINTERS AND DECORATORS
Need a job done? Think local... PLUMBERS AND GAS HEATING ENGINEERS
PAINTERS AND DECORATORS
melbourne painting services
| Boiler installation | Service & breakdown repair | All plumbing work | Landlord and gas certificates | Free estimates | No callout charge
Quality work at affordable prices OAP discount
NO VAT TO PAY
EATEES FESR M I T
Ring Nolan Jackson on
01332 864097 or 07963 059893
GAS SERVICE C S Serving the East Midlands
Call Mat att: t: 07967 114627 578142
For all your painting and decorating needs
mrh
or 01332 586258 info@mrhgasservices.co.uk
CAR REPAIRS
A.N. GALE
(Repair Garage) Church Street, Melbourne • ACCIDENT REPAIRS• • SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE • • MOT REPAIRS • TESTS ARRANGED •
TELEPHONE 862658 or 862593 or MObILE: 07778 306 664
ELECTRICIANS Andy
WESTON DECORATING Ltd. Interior and Exterior Painting and Decorating
Tel: 01332 862876 or 07721 494555 email: weston18@btinternet.com
MELBOURNE ELECTRICS For all your electrical needs Domestic – Commercial - Industrial Testing & Inspecting etc
A member of NAPIT & Fully Part P Registered Established 1973
Contact David on . . .
Tel: 01332 863547 / Mobile: 0780 170 9492 Email: melbelec@tesco.net
CARPENTERS AND JOINERS
29 Hope Street, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8FX
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
James Wendt Carpentry & Joinery
All aspects of woodwork and home improvements. ● Kitchens ● Windows ● Flooring ● Doors etc.
07966 045110
TOWNLEY JOINERY “Brushing aside the competition”
WO O D WO R K AT I T S F I N E S T A family run business who bring you the finest bespoke joinery. We supply and fit kitchens, staircases, windows, doors, conservatories etc and specialise in listed building work. For more information on what we do, please visit our website www.townleyjoinery.co.uk
DEAN TOWNLEY Unit 27, George Holmes Way, Hearthcote Road, Derbyshire DE11 9DF
Tel: 01283 210797 Mob: 0782 8235467
TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE PLEASE CALL NICOLA ON
07584 025 852 www.melbournevillagevoice.co.uk
18 Village Voice February 2017
Melbourne’s Annual Meeting of the Parish Monday, 13th March 2017 The Melbourne Room, Melbourne Assembly Rooms 7.30pm (refreshments from 7.00pm) - All Parishioners are invited to attend -
Councillors: Mrs Margaret Sharp, Jane Carroll, Wendy Earp, Ian Casson, Nigel Collyer, George Dunnicliff, Tom Gates, Sheila Hicklin, George Hudson, Andrew Jackson, Robert Parker, David Smith, Terry Summerlin, Paul Willmore, Mick Usher
Melbourne Dental Practice - E S TA B L I S H E D 3 0 Y E A R S -
TEXT MESSAGING SERVICE To try and reduce the amount of clinical time lost due to missed appointments and late cancellations, the practice is now offering a text messaging service. Any patients who wish to receive these will need to complete a text messaging consent form, available at reception. Please note, we cannot offer this service unless a consent form has been completed.
Naomi Fry BDS & Associates, Helen Baker BDS ● Family Dental Care using latest techniques and materials ● Friendly and caring service ● Cosmetic Dentistry including tooth whitening Naomi Fry accepts child orthodontic patients on the N.H.S.
Castle Street, Melbourne, Derbyshire Telephone 01332 862942
Birthday gym ’n tonic for Dick, 80
SOME people might put their feet up on their 80th birthday – but this active soon-to-be octogenarian is doing quite the opposite with a sponsored workout at the gym to mark his new decade. Dick Carlier, of Melbourne, will be marking his birthday on the day itself, March 20, by doing an hour’s testing fitness workout at Breedon Priory Health Club – a venue which had to be changed at the last minute after the original one, Picture of Health Fitness Studio in Melbourne, suddenly shut its doors. Dick’s workout will include a 2km row to start, 10 minutes on a stepping machine, 12 sets of repetitions on different pieces of resistance equipment before a kilometre finish on the treadmill. He has set himself a target to complete the lot in an hour, which will be a “bronze” finish, with 55 minutes counting as silver and 50 minutes as gold. It’s all for a good cause, with the money raised from sponsorship destined for Melbourne Community Care and Macmillan Cancer Support. “I’ve been involved with Community Care since just after I came to Melbourne,” said Dick, an ambulance escort for the service. “And, like everybody else, we have been grateful for what Macmillan has done for friends and relatives and over the years.” A retired chartered engineer who has lived in Melbourne for 30
years, Dick has rowed and played rugby for much of his life and has always tried to get to the gym three times a week. “I was a lousy rugby player, a better referee, not a bad administrator and now I’m a glorious old fart!” he told the Village Voice. “Exercise just makes me feel good. If I don’t exercise I start to seize up. I’ve got a few aches and pains but the workout helps.” Dick is asking for sponsorship for his heroic birthday workout. Forms are available from the Community Care office and from Dick himself. You can also support him via https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/dickcarlieris80
VILLAGERS URGED TO RESPOND TO HS2 SURVEY
RESIDENTS are being urged to respond to a Government consultation about the proposed HS2 route so that it continues not to affect their community as much as it might have done. The Government has announced a refinement to the route of the new high speed train which means it would now run parallel to the A42 and not east of it – a move which would greatly reduce the aural and
visual impact of the new rail route in Breedon and Tonge. Now a public consultation has been launched in which people are being asked, amongst other things, whether they approve of this route re-alignment. Breedon Parish Council is urging residents to respond to the survey “in support of this route refinement before the closing date of 9 March 2017”.
The council adds: “There is likely to be strong objection from other areas of North West Leicestershire. “Silence from this area could be taken as indicating support for the original route or lack of concern either way.” Responses can be made online via https://route2b.dialoguebydesign.net, or by email to route2b@dialoguebydesign.co.uk. SOUTH DERBYSHIRE
Executive Home Cleaning Are you too busy for housework? Maybe we can help Competitive prices For a professional, trustworthy and reliable service please call Julie
01332 751 708 or 07759 019 185
Made Your Will Yet? Property Trusts Will Storage Inheritance Tax Wills Children’s Trust
Man Van and a
● Furniture removals ● Wholesale runs ● DIY store pickups ● ebay deliveries ● Short or long distance ● Anytime
Your Will in the privacy and comfort of your own home Power of Attorney
DISTRICT COUNCIL
£49.95* + VAT (£59.94) *our standard will
Contact Ian:
Phone today for FREE INFO PACK
01332 752384 or 07954 227309
0115 871 2755 24 hours / 7 days a week Tim and Ann Pentz.
Councillor Linda Chilton, Councillor John Harrison Councillor Jim Hewlett
ADVICE SURGERIES
at Melbourne Assembly Rooms 11 am to 12 noon
Saturday 4th March Saturday 1st April “ Li s t eni ng t o Local Peop l e”
Advertising...
News...
Letters...
Photographs...
To find out more call 07584 025 852 or email: ads@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk Specification and pricing is available to download online... www.melbournevillagevoice.co.uk
Call us on 01332 863181 or email... news@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk
Email us your comments... letters@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk or write to us at The Village Voice, 11 North Street, Melbourne DE73 8FZ
Photographs are available to purchase online. See all the latest images at... www.melbournevillagevoice.co.uk
© 2016. An independent community paper designed and published by Village Voice Newspapers. Typeset by Greenborough Ltd., t/a Voice Productions. Printed in England. The publishers of Village Voice are not responsible for any content or claims in advertisements. Artwork not supplied by advertisers may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers.
Revenge is sweet for the 1st XV
THE start of January saw Melbourne RFC’s 1st XV travel to West Bridgford. There were changes again in the team – and a debutant in Ryan Martin. Despite being rusty and conceding two tries from the WB full back, Melbourne eased to a comfortable 34-17 bonus point win. Tries came from Judge (two), Howard and Whitten with Holden contributing 14 points. Pearce was yellow carded and MOTM was Tommy Howard. The 1st XV then entertained Newark at senior level for probably the first time. Newark is the only side to beat Melbourne in the league this season so the home team was keen to avenge the early season defeat. Coach Derbyshire made a few changes with unavailabilities and 18-year-old James Benstead debuted from the bench. The first quarter was scoreless before Newark took a 3-0 lead. Melbourne soon hit back with a catch and drive from a short range lineout. From the first phase the ball was popped to Jack Pearce, who crashed over with Euan Holden converting for a 7-3 lead. Newark closed the gap on the stroke of halftime with a penalty. They took the lead from a scrum penalty early into the second half before Melbourne took control of the game with a wellfunctioning lineout and a stable scrum (thanks to
a coaching session from old stalwart Roger Lucas midweek). Two Holden penalties regained the lead before Melbourne scored another try. Fine driving play from the forwards saw the ball go through the hands of Pagey, Holden, Devon and Pearce. Pearce made the half break and provided a fine pass for Howard to beat three men and score under the posts. Holden converted for a 20-9 lead, which ended up the final score. There were yellow cards for Pagey and Alec Judge with MOTM going to James Lockhart. The 2nd XV had an outing against WB 2nds and 14 of the 18 man squad were under 22 years old. WB won 24-5 but Melbourne were always competitive, though a lack of cohesion and ‘holding onto the ball’ cost them at key times. Josh Stanley scored for the 2nd XV. A combined 2nds and 3rds went to Burton and came away with a 36-20 win in an entertaining game. Tries for Bilson (two), Brown, Wiseall, Mallett and Whittaker with Bilson converting three. Ballington got a yellow card. The Academy had a highly entertaining 48-48 draw at Ashby before a large squad went to Ashbourne, losing 32-17. They then went depleted to Ilkeston, narrowly losing 32-25 despite having been 17-0 up. – Peter Ilott
Darters arrow in on finish
MELBOURNE Darts League is now hitting the run-in to the end of the winter season. It’s still very tight in the top half of the table with Tim Jones currently enjoying a four-point lead over Terry Brazier with Robert Hatton and Neil Jones still chasing them down. The outcome is anyone’s with all players capable of beating each other. It’s that time when the darts league starts looking at recruiting a few new faces to compete in the following season, which again will be held at The Royal Suite every Monday. Anyone who wants to join can go along and sign up. For more details email melbournedarts180@gmail.com
Village Voice February 2017 19
Marlins meet Rio medal hero
byshire schools who took part. Together, they completed the 400 metres, or 16 lengths of the pool, in six minutes and 55 seconds. Their reward was the chance to meet Lewis at Green Bank Leisure Centre in Swadlincote where they were able to ask questions and have a go at holding the bronze medal. One swimmer, nine-year-old Ria, said afterwards: “He talked to me and I asked him a question which was who his inspiration was; he said Michael Phelps. The medal was really heavy!�
THESE aquatic youngsters from Melbourne got the chance to meet Paralympic bronze medallist Lewis White after showing off some speedy swimming skills. The year 5 pupils from Melbourne Junior School took part in a one-off competition called “Swim Like Lewis White� in which swim-relays were challenged to try to beat his Rio de Janeiro Games 400m bronze medal winning time of 4 minutes and 21 seconds. Melbourne’s swimmers, dubbed the ‘Melbourne Marlins’, swam the fastest time out of the 237 swimmers from 14 South Der-
DOVES Garages Ltd. Ltd. TYRES
MALCARS TAXIS
QUALITY SERVICE AND REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES OF CAR - FREE LOCAL COLLECTION COURTESY CARS AVAILABLE
HIGH STREET, MELBOURNE, MELBOURNE DERBYSHIRE
01332
4 - 6 - 8 - 12 - 16 SEATERS
GUARANTEED BY THE RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
862123
Competitive Rates Local & Long Distance Call Andy
For new & used cars please visit www.dovesusedcarsderby.co.uk
863 864
VILLAGE CARS T V AERIAL SERVICES
24
RS HOU
4 - 8 Seaters available Local & Long Distance Journeys Committed to a Quality Service
www.villagecarssd.co.uk
&DOO -DPHV
0RELOH
MELEN’S Private Hire
01332 862777 864440
Call us for quotes and bookings on
)DPLO\ UUXQ E EXVLQHVV E EXLOW R RQ UUHFRPPHQGDWLRQV
01332
)XOO ' 'LJLWDO $ $HULDO ,,QVWDOODWLRQV ([WUD 7 79 D DQG 6 6N\ 3 3RLQWV /RZ & &RVW $ $HULDO D DQG 6 6N\ 5 5HSDLUV ) )UHHVDW ,,QVWDOODWLRQV
) )UHH 4 4XRWHV
(Formerly Warren’s Cars)
Local & Long Distance
',*,7$/ ) )5((9,(: $ $(5,$/ 6 6.< 6 63(&,$/,676
)UHH 7 7XQLQJ Z ZLWK D DOO ,,QVWDOODWLRQV
Ronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Private Hire
NWLDC Vouchers
- 4 seater -
R H MOTORS SERVICING OF ALL MAKES AND MODELS DIAGNOSTICS AND REPAIRS
Tel: 01332 695155 Mob: 07970 062289 (-PDLO WWYDHULDOVHU YLFHV#KRWPDLO FR XN
Unit 2 Station Yard, Station Road, Melbourne www.rhmotorsgarage.co.uk
20 Village Voice February 2017
FA charter award for the Badgers
SPORT
YOUNG footballers from Barrow-upon-Trent had plenty to smile about when their small village club was awarded official FA charter standard status in front of Derby County fans at the Pride Park Ipro Stadium. The Barrow Badgers JFC under-9s side finished 2016 by qualifying for the Derby Junior Football League Cup knockout stages after finishing winners of their group. Their day at Pride Park was capped off with the young players asked to be official Derby County flag bearers for the game. The Barrow Badgers have been going since November 2015 and have a regular turnout of 24 children who go to training on Saturday mornings on the Susie Dixon Park. They are about to launch a further under-9s team and are looking for more players with hopes of increasing the age range from seven to 10-year-olds by 2018, with both boys and girls playing. Anyone interested in getting involved should get in touch with the club on 07490 127230.
HELP Y YOUR OUR BUSINESS GRO GR OW... by reaching over 16,000 readers of the Village Voic Voice! We can help with marketing, promotions and recruitment needs for businesses big and small. To discuss your advertising requirements or how we can help you, please contact Nicola Mortimer on 07584 025 852 or email ads@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk Our ne xt two editions... Month
Booking Dat e
Publication Dat e
March April
1 M arch 29 March
13 M arch 10 April
Melbourne & District
Helping local business gr ow. www.melbournevillagevoice.co.uk
to ered . Deliv ld in.. o useh o h y E ever OURN MELB TON S NEW KING NALL TICK EBY INGL MARK FORE T LOUN GE BRID N-BY O T N STA ONE KEST SWAR ON WILS LD HARO NTON U A T S E TONG FORD TWY ON WALT ISLEY ENT N-TR ON-O T S T E W -TREN N-ON O T S A STON ELVA STON THUL STON AMBA T -TREN W-ON O R R BA DON BREE ERN f FIND Part o Y SMISB N MILTO
Dynamos’ penalty shoot-out blow
l FLYING THE FLAG ... Barrow Badgers’ big day out with Derby County.
MELBOURNE Dynamo FC players were left cursing the weather for their inactivity in the month of January as both the first team and reserves played only two of their four scheduled matches each. The first XI began the month in a cruel manner as they lost their Derbyshire Cup semi-final away at Gresley Rovers Reserves on penalties after drawing 3-3 in normal time in a game full of incident. A goal in each half from leading scorer Dave Brough saw Dynamo leading 2-1 with just four minutes to go, but defensive lapses allowed the home side to lead 3-2.
MELBOURNE CARPETS WE FLATS ARE HERE
TO CAR PARK
CARPETS AND VINYL FLOORING SUPPLIED & FITTED PROFESSIONALLY
HIGH STREET
LAMB INN
Extensive selection of domestic and commercial flooring to suit business, rented and residential property All samples can be taken away and viewed within your own home
38 High Street, Melbourne ASSEMBLY ROOMS
Telephone: 01332 863743 Mobile: 07966 245884
A last minute Carl Allsop header took the game to extra time and then to penalties where Melbourne lost 4-2 to exit the competitiion. Back in league action a week later Gavin Salisbury’s men maintained their position at the top of division one as they won a hard fought 2-0 home win against AFC Kilburn Reserves. A Lee Sanders goal and a late Ellis Ratcliffe finish earned the three points. Melbourne Dynamo Reserves mirrored their first team’s results in January by winning their league game but going out of a cup.
OUTDOOR CLOTHING
Stockists of Barbour Aigle • Hoggs • Chrysalis SHOOTING EQUIPMENT FISHING TACKLE Corporate CLAY SHOOTS arranged & much more Pay us a visit at
64 Church Street, Melbourne, Derbys
Tel. Derby (01332) 862091 www.melbournegun.com
They began the year with a league win at home versus Punjab United. A goal down at half-time, a superb header from Ryan McLaughlin drew the reserves level. With 20 minutes to go a clinical finish from Ellis Ratcliffe secured the points for Melbourne, leaving them in second place in division two. A week later Greg Salisbury’s men went out of the Challenge Cup as they were destroyed 12-2 by Castle Donington Cobras from the division above. A Toby McCabe double was the only consolation on a tough day for the reserves. – Alex Slater
Ready, steady, go for the Weston Run
IT’S time for anyone who wants to don their running shoes to enter this year’s Weston Run. Organised by the 107th Derby Scouts, the next run is taking place on Sunday, March 12, with the action starting from the Ukrainian Centre in Weston at 11am. There will be a five-mile road race run under UK Athletics (UKA) rules, plus a two-mile fun run. Trophies will be awarded to winning teams in the five-mile race. Everyone who finishes the five-mile run will receive a tot glass, while medals will be awarded to all finishers of the fun run. Reduced entry fees are available for early registration and five mile runners affiliated to UKA. Online registration before March 3 offers an option to have your runner numbers sent to you for a small fee of £1 to cover postage. See www.107derbyscouts.org.uk for more. Anyone with any comments or queries about the event or the results is asked to e-mail the Scouts at westonrun@107derbyscouts.org.uk