It’s King Jude’s reign at the Carnival
MELBOURNE has a new King!
Meet King Jude – the winner of this year ’s Melbourne King or Queen contest to crown a young person with the honour of leading the procession at this year ’s carnival.
The carnival celebrates 100 years this year and local young people turned out to the MSP on May 17 to put themselves forward to become this year ’s King or Queen, with another six children being awarded the role of attendant
Carnival chair Tracey Ridley did the honours in interviewing young people as they took their turn on the stage – and there was even a cartwheel or two to impress the audience!
Young entrants did themselves proud by expertly fielding Tracey’s questions, and after some deliberation judges pronounced Jude should be crowned King.
A year six pupil at Melbourne Junior School, Jude explained he had accompanied his sister along to the evening
This year ’s carnival takes place on Saturday, July 12.
Jude will be leading the procession which sets off at Castle Square at 11 45am with gates opening at Melbourne Junior School playing field at noon
Raffle and entry tickets will be available at Sainsbury’s two weekends before the event, and organisers have reminded the community that there is still time to enter a float in the procession, with participants having plenty of scope for their imaginations with the theme ‘decades’!
Jude is pictured with his carnival attendants and Tracey Ridley
n Carnival’s crowning glories – Pages 8 and 9
by Lucy Stephens
AN emotional plea has been made to Melbourne Parish Council by local people who voiced considerable upset at the state of the village cemetery after the departure of its sexton.
Gail Potts, who visits the cemetery regularly to visit loved ones’ graves, told parish councillors at their latest meeting that she and other residents felt “extremely let down” by its current state She said contractors now responsible for the cemetery were showing “a dis-
tinct lack of care and respect” for loved ones who rest there
Gail pointed to recent examples of what she and fellow mourners felt was a lack of care, including a recent incident in which a floral tribute had been damaged on the grave of a well-loved member of the community – and the mess not cleared up
Leaves of flowers on a grave had been damaged along with plinths and headstones
She said: “The cemetery looks unloved and uncared for and certainly would not win any awards as it has done in the past
“All of this is heartbreaking and the parish council should be ashamed that this has been allowed to happen
“We ask for immediate action to remedy this debacle and to return Melbourne Cemetery to the beautiful, tranquil environment it should be It should not be a place that families dread visiting because they don’t know what state they are going to find their loved one’s grave in ”
Gail pointed to the excellent care that the previous sexton, Rob Holman, had given to the job, saying: “We were extremely lucky that the cemetery was always very well cared for by Rob and
always looked immaculate under his care and gentle hands and we will always be grateful to Rob for his sensitivity, care, compassion and hard work “
Fellow residents told parish councillors that other issues had arisen regarding interments at the cemetery
Residents attending the meeting asked for a new full time sexton to be appointed
The parish council has written back to Gail thanking her and colleagues for attending the meeting and raising their concerns about the cemetery
Chair Cllr Andy Dawson said that n Continued on Page 3
Reform take the helm at county council
KEY appointments made by Derbyshire County Council’s new administration have been confirmed at the authority’s AGM
Reform UK took control of the county council in the elections held on May 1 and now have 42 seats out of a total of 64 seats on the authority
At its AGM the new leader of the county council was confirmed as Councillor Alan Graves, who represents the Aston division; the deputy leader will be Councillor Robert Reaney, who represents the Sutton division
Councillor Nick Adams has been appointed as the Council and Civic Chairman The Vice-Chair will be Councillor Jodie Brown
Councillor Adams was presented with his chain by outgoing Civic Chairman Tony Kemp, and Councillor Brown received her chain from outgoing Vice-Civic Chairman Kewal Singh Athwal
Melbourne’s county councillor Charlotte Hill is cabinet member for Potholes, Highways and Transport
Following his confirmation as Leader Councillor Graves said: “What happened at the local elections on 1 May marks a significant historic event for Derbyshire, and the country as a whole
Never before has Derbyshire seen such wholesale changes to the political landscape
“I am rightly proud to hold the title of Leader of Derbyshire County Council, proud for my family, proud for my party and proud for my county
“My councillors are ready to serve all the people of Derbyshire and we have hit the ground running
“Apart from the usual council business that has to be attended to on a daily basis, we will be focusing on the overall efficiency of the council I am blessed with a very life-experienced group and over time we will open the council up to a new way of working and doing things
“Every single one of our councillors has real-life experience covering senior management through to frontline teaching, and I will utilise all of that experience to make the council operate better for the people of Derbyshire ”
OPENING TIMES
Open Wednesday 10am - 8pm ursday to Sunday 10am - 4pm For breakfast, lunch, homemade cakes, scones and a whole counter full of goodies - Booking is required for A ernoon Tea -
Much love, Lou and the team x
the wheels at the airport
VEGETABLE oil will be used to power vehicles at East Midlands Airport Airport leaders announced on World Environment Day on June 5 that more than 60 vehicles involved in operations are now running on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) instead of diesel – helping to slash their carbon emissions by up to 90 per cent
These include airfield operations and security team vehicles, fire trucks and snow clearing vehicles
The airport’s parent company, Manchester Airports Group, has pledged to transition its airports to zero carbon operations by 2038
East Midlands Airport has been carbon neutral since 2012 by implementing a range of measures at the site, including installing commercial grade wind turbines, using 100% electricity from renewable sources, diverting 100% of its waste from landfill, and using car parking revenue to improve public transport options to access the site, as well as installing EV charging points for electric vehicles using the airfield, including two new electric ‘ambulifts’ which transport customers with mobility issues to aircraft
Council’s firm message to developers
COUNCILLORS have put developers on warning that they must comply with planning conditions after recently turning down an application to vary plans and landscaping arrangements for the site behind 21 Market Place in Melbourne.
Planning permission had been granted previously for a single dwelling, but in October 2024 some trees which were to be preserved were illegally felled and the location of the building had been moved without the necessary permission Work on the site was subsequently stopped by planning enforcement and this fresh application was seeking to redress some of the issues which had arisen
At a meeting of South Derbyshire District Council’s Planning Committee – recently renamed the Development Management Committee – Mike King, of Melbourne Civic Society, outlined how he said the developer had been reckless in removing the trees and ignoring conditions
He called upon the council to consider prosecution
Merissa Worcester, speaking for the developer, acknowledged the concerns raised about the trees and conservation aspects She said the developer would implement whatever was needed, and she explained that the planting of laurel trees and boundary treatment had been done in good faith
by Frank Hughes
Cllr Matt Gotheridge said he had serious concerns about the destruction of trees in the conservation area He added that the more recent landscaping had done nothing to improve or redress the harm that had been done Cllr Andrew Kirke went further, saying this was “wilful destruction of protected trees” and that developers just cannot ignore planning conditions without consequences
Cllrs Amy Wheelton and Daniel Corbin added their weight, saying that unauthorised destruction was winding people up, and the message is simple: “Follow the planning law” as he put it
Generally, it was felt that the newly formed committee should “take a stance” as one councillor said and not be “a soft touch” as another remarked
Councillors voted to refuse the application, going against the recommendations of the planning officer
After the meeting Mr King said he was pleased the council had refused the application and he also urged them to consider his recommendation of prosecution
Cllr Gotheridge said: “I believe this is a moment to show that our planning system stands for something, that conservation is more than just a label on a map ”
l Council Leader Councillor Alan Graves is pictured at the front with Melbourne division representative Councillor Charlotte Hill on the far right of the third row
5,000 audience event gets the go-ahead
ONE three-day entertainment event per year on the grounds behind Melbourne Hall (Crow Park) will be allowed to take place after South Derbyshire Licensing Committee granted approval despite the concerns of some local residents
The application from Raymond Gubbay Ltd, who produce and promote live events, was originally for six days over two weekends with up to a 5,000-strong audience
Both Environmental Health and the licensing authority had originally objected to the application but withdrew objections after the finishing times were amended and the application was reduced to only one three-day event per year
There had been 13 objections lodged, and several residents spoke at the hearing One said there had been no consultation with residents while another said there had been no assessment of the environmental impact
Another resident who lives very near the hall said the committee should refuse the application on grounds of public safety and public nuisance He said it would be like the whole population of Melbourne trying to get onto a field at the end of a very busy lane
He asked the councillors how they would
Beer that takes you back in time
CHEERS! A round of Nut Brown Mild was the order of the day in May with visitors to The Spirit Vaults in Melbourne being treated to a taste of history
Thanks to the efforts of The Melbourne Historical Research Group and Morgan Brewmasters from The Spirit Vaults –John Hair and Sons’ Nut Brown Mild was brewed again for 21st century tastebuds after being untasted for 70 years
The mild ale was a favourite in Melbourne and locally brewed at John Hair ’s Brewery which operated on Church Street for just over 100 years until it closed in the 1950s
Seventy years later, the historical research group was given an unopened bottle of Hair ’s Best Bitter which had belonged to Max Dallman, whose father had worked at the brewery
The group debated whether to leave the bottle closed or open it up for scientific analysis
After choosing the latter option – with permission of the donor – the group was led by Barry Thomas to Murphy & Son Ltd at Basford near Nottingham who kindly agreed to subject it to lab testing for free
Despite dating back to the 1950s the beer stood up to a taste test by Barry Thomas and Philip Heath and was found to be still drinkable – although a bit flat!
by Frank Hughes
like to have around 5,000 people passing their front door, as he will experience
Another local resident explained that Church Street, one of the main access routes to the event, was one of the two worst roads in Melbourne for blockages and bottlenecks
With two bus routes using the narrow road, even everyday traffic struggled to get through, she said Residents from Wilson were concerned about the traffic through their village and along the narrow and winding Blackwell Lane
Noise, not just from the event, but from up to 5,000 visitors entering and leaving the event would also be a nuisance and disturbance to local residents
Roger Lowe, representing the applicant as commercial manager, said he acknowledged the objections, and they were all valid Addressing the parking issue, he said that there would be free parking with 1,170 spaces to encourage car drivers to use the official car parks, rather than street parking He said that a full traffic and management plan would need to be approved for the events in advance, which would be produced by industry professionals
There would be no three-day event tickets sold, so there was no plan to have overnight accommodation, and he said the events would be either music or comedy, similar to those which had been taking place in the gardens of Melbourne Hall He also said that the finishing time had been amended and a noise limit had been agreed
After deliberation the committee acknowledged that there were lots of concerns, particularly on the effects of arriving and departing vehicles
Nonetheless they had decided it was reasonable and proportionate to grant permission with two additional conditions –namely that residents, the parish council and relevant parties were given advance notice of the nature of the entertainment at events, and secondly that a traffic management plan was submitted 30 days in advance and the plan would need to be approved
After the hearing Mr Lowe – who had outlined the proposals to members of Melbourne Parish Council earlier in the month – said he was satisfied that the licence had been granted, and that they would meet all the conditions imposed
The first event is unlikely to be before summer 2026
Simon Morgan of the brewery at The Spirit Vaults then recreated the beer using ingredients based on recipes of the time and included Mild Ale Malt, Flaked Maize, Crystal Malt, Black Malt, Belgian Sugar Candi, Fuggles Hops and LalBrew’s Windsor yeast
More than 500 pints were brewed at The Spirit Vaults which were put on the pumps and bottled
Philip Heath said the brewing was a good example of innovative thinking at Melbourne Historical Research Group in terms of history being brought to life in new and fresh ways
Thanks have been given to Murphy’s, particularly the head of technical, Iain Kenny, along with Terry Summerlin, who arranged for the bottle to come the society’s way from the Dallman family Bottoms up!
Concerns raised over cemetery
n From Page 1
following the concerns raised, parish councillors had met at the cemetery to discuss the matter
He explained that the parish council was using two contractors while it is without a full time sex-
ton He said councillors had been visiting the cemetery to check on the quality of the work and were in general satisfied that standards were being met
But Cllr Dawson acknowledged “mistakes have
been made”, referring to the damage to a floral tribute
Apologising to those who raised concerns, he offered reassurance that the parish council “care very much” about keeping the cemetery a “beautiful and tranquil environment” and would do their best to achieve it
He said because parish councillors were unpaid volunteers with other commitments, a recruitment process could take longer than might be expected
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.
We are also happy to arrange personalised Golden Charter Funeral Plans
l Simon Morgan, Philip Heath, Kate Freeman and Barry Thomas sampling the brew
Andrew’s marathon effort for charity
WILSON auctioneer Andrew Parker has been well and truly stepping up for a local charity after raising more than £20,000 for memory-making me&dee
Andrew, who has recently become a trustee of me&dee, has so far raised £23,000 for the charity by running the London Marathon this year
Property auctioneer Andrew said he wanted to challenge himself with his first ever marathon and give something back to a local charity which helps enhance the lives of many children and their families where serious illnesses have been diagnosed
He had originally got a place to run the famous event in 2020 but could not complete it due to Covid so finally achieved his ambition this year
Andrew said his fund-raising started through regular walks with fellow Wilson resident Nick Humphreys of Melbourne Sales &
by Lucy Stephens
Lets, who generously got the ball rolling by sponsoring him £100 per mile
Other sponsors such as Breedon Spa and Chevin Homes got on board and he has smashed through his £10,000 target with £23,000 and counting raised so far!
Andrew said he had come across the work of me&dee after doing a couple of charity auctions for the Melbournebased charity, which was founded by Maria Hanson MBE 19 years ago
He said: “I think what’s special about me&dee is that it all goes to the beneficiaries – there isn’t a huge organisation that needs to be supported It’s local The children and their families that are offered continuing care are local – it’s very relevant to us at home
“It’s that continuing care, it’s all the
Celia’s artwork support
LOCAL artist Celia Brookes has made hundreds of pounds to help support people with learning difficulties through a successful art sale over the late May bank holiday weekend
Celia, whose watercolours have been exhibited widely in the regional area, showcased her artwork at her home as part of the Derbyshire Open Arts Exhibition over the weekend of May 24-26 She sold home-made cakes and refreshments and raised £360 to help an organisation which provides support to people with learning difficulties who were “thrilled to bits” with the donation
things that they do to enhance the lives of the children and families they look after ”
Andrew said the marathon itself had been a challenge on a warm day but he had loved the experience
Maria said the money raised by Andrew had been a huge support to the charity over the last few months
Its Continuing Care programme supports families with days out and swimming sessions in Derby for children who, due to their conditions, would otherwise find it hard to access the pool
Maria, who does not take a salary from me&dee and has disabilities herself, said: “As the donations filter in over several months, this has allowed our Continuing Care programme to run constantly and consistently, allowing us to create many memory making experiences, for families facing daily challenges, and bringing them to-
gether for companionship and peer support Many memories have been created solely due to Andy’s magnificent support ”
Andrew received over 150 individual donations and proudly wore the logos of several local businesses on his running kit
Andrew’s me&dee JustGiving page is still live and accepting donations: https://www justgiving com/ page/andrew-parker-1733672222439
l Andrew Parker gets his reward.
VILLAGERS TAKE A TRIP BACK TO VE DAY
WARTIME outfits and ration books were the order of the day at a community event in Thulston to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day
The day was organised by a team of local volunteers with Elvaston Parish Council.
Villagers turned out in large numbers to take part in the remembrance celebrations which included vintage singing acts Rose Devine, Bonaparte and Cranberry Flick. With quizzes throughout the day for children and adults, residents were also tested on their rationing skills with a one egg cake baking competition using a World War Two recipe
There were prizes for the most authentically dressed and everyone was issued with a ration book on arrival, with the opportunity to get a drink from the Harrington Arms’ temporary bar on The Green, plus something to eat from the food truck.
Local businesses Eden Tyre, Automatic Refreshments and Business Beverages sponsored the event
ABOVE: Ethan Buckley has his face painted.
LEFT: Winners of the Best Dressed Children’s Category
RIGHT TOP: Winner of the Best Dressed Man costume with family
RIGHT BOTTOM: Dave Welch with his 1942 Willy's MB jeep.
20,000 jobs booster if airport plan takes off
EAST MIDLANDS AIRPORT has unveiled plans which could mean a huge increase in cargo operations and the possibility of more than 20,000 extra jobs.
The plans identify additional sites within its perimeter which could be developed to handle freight
Proposals outline a 54 per cent increase in cargo tonnage by 2043, more than 20,000 additional jobs and over £3 9 billion in additional (GVA) investment
An airport statement said: “Four sites on the airfield totalling more than 50 hectares have been earmarked as ripe for development to maximise the airport’s potential and build on its success as the UK’s number one hub for express air freight
“East Midlands Airport is now open to expressions of interest from potential developers about how to take these opportunities forward ”
The statement points to four unique attributes to attract investment:
n Its central location and proximity to the national road and rail networks;
n Fewer restrictions around night flying than other airports, enabling an increase in capacity and capability by running a 24-hour operation;
n Specialising in dedicated cargo aircraft, rather than
FOR once I am in complete agreement with Mr Murray-Leslie and his condemnation of the proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill, in particular its dismissive approach to the natural world (Village Voice, May)
South Derbyshire is rich in wild spaces, flora and fauna habitats woodlands and agriculture; many of these could be at risk from unwanted developers with no interest in their protection As a volunteer at the Aston Brickyard Local Nature Reserve I am aware of the fragile balance of our
by Frank Hughes
placing freight in the belly-hold of passenger planes as is the case elsewhere; and
n Single runway with direct access to cargo hubs, offering fast and efficient aircraft-to-truck times
Airport managing director Steve Griffiths said:
“EMA is already one of the most important airports in the UK, forming the backbone of express freight that powers the growth of advanced manufacturing and other high-value industries It is the hub that connects much of the country to the world’s most important markets for trade
“Analysis shows we have the potential for significant growth in the coming years and, in order to meet this growth, we have identified development opportunities to enhance our cargo infrastructure ”
The indicative sites, two of which are on the designated freeport site, are at the eastern end of the airport adjacent to the A453; an area adjacent to the UPS hub; the area currently occupied by a long stay carpark and the flying club; and to the western end of the site, currently occupied by Jetparks
No indication is given as to where passenger and staff car-parking could relocate but an additional com-
green environment so I would endorse his request for people to write to our MP to raise concerns MP Niblett is quoted in the same edition of Village Voice, stating ‘anything that connects people with nature is just brilliant’
It is to be hoped that she will take that sentiment to Parliament, vigorously defend our natural heritage and vote against this obnoxious and unwarranted Bill John Holloway Aston on Trent
Email us your comments to letters@melbournevillagevoice co uk or write to The Village Voice, 11 North Street, Melbourne DE73 8FZ
ment by an airport spokesperson suggested multistorey parking might be considered
The reaction on social media has been mixed with many supporting the plans, but others concerned about more night flying, and the development growth in the surrounding area
Others point to issues with the passenger operations and parking
In a recent response to the airport’s Sustainable Development Plan, which only made passing reference to the cargo development, one group has been critical that the plans make no reference to actual aircraft movements
A spokesman for the airport said: “These proposals are at a very early stage, meaning it’s not possible to provide details such as the number of flight movements associated with them
“It will depend on the proposals that come forward from developers ”
He added that it was “ likely to mean an increase in night flights, albeit there are quieter periods in our daytime passenger operations when we can and do offer cargo slots and we are exploring increasing this
“We also have a noise action plan which places a restriction on the types of aircraft that can fly at night, with the noisiest having been banned”
CAN you help Melbourne Junior School revamp its sensory garden?
School leaders would like to redesign the garden and are asking for the community to be involved.
Anyone who might be able to support with donations or items or time is asked to get
The
OBITUARY
STEPHEN ALLEN ‘Orange’ 1964 - 2025
“Thank you for being our friend”
STEPHEN, known to almost everyone as ‘Orange’, grew up with two brothers Darran and Christopher, along with parents Graham and Christine in Hope Street and inevitably became a member of the ‘Hope Street Gang’ playing out in the street until dinner time or sunset, whichever came first
He attended school in Melbourne, first wearing the infamous orange shorts which led to his nickname Leaving school at 16, he became an apprentice mechanic at Doves Garage, a job he held for 45 years until his passing
There was hardly a car in Melbourne of which he hadn’t been under the bonnet as Melbourne’s finest mechanic worked his magic It was suspected that on a Monday morning he occasionally took the opportunity to catch 40 winks under a car
He loved his holidays – from taking his children Jamie and Lucy to their favourite destination of Lindos to later trips to Barbados, discovering Daddys Bar which sadly didn’t serve his favourite Carling (the champagne of lagers) But that led to an encounter with bottles of Banks which became a reasonable alternative
His favourite football team was, of course, Derby County and it gave him a great thrill to introduce his younger brother Chris to his first match at Sheffield followed up quickly by another trip to Barnsley Hardly stellar locations but it led to
a lifetime of support for the Rams from all three brothers
In recent years he became a massive support for his father Graham, calling in on him daily to do some chores and making sure he was fine
He also found a new life with partner Mandy on a narrowboat at Barrow on Soar together with Maverick the dog
He loved a karaoke and was a fan of a wide range of music; it was fitting that a sing-along karaoke version of the Monkees’ Daydream Believer was a part of the funeral service which everyone of the almost 200 people in attendance joined in
He has gone far too soon but he lived life to the full and leaves behind a legacy of great stories, happy memories and a huge group of friends who mourned his passing but celebrated his life in true ‘Orange’ fashion raising a glass of Carling to thank him for being a friend
PRIMARY aged children from Breedon were treated to an experience to remember when their school won tickets to attend the world premiere of Oceans with David Attenborough in London.
St Hardulph’s C of E Primary were one of the schools successful in the tickets ballot to attend the screening
Twelve children including the school’s eco champions represented their school at the event.
Not only were they photographed on the ‘blue carpet’ but watched the premiere alongside The Prince of Wales!
Head teacher Kelly Ellis said: “It was an amazing opportunity for our children to experience as well as highlight the importance of taking care of the world we live in and supports the work we do in school on sustainability.”
Collector ’s artwork is up for auction
by Lucy Stephens
INTERESTING artworks owned by a Melbourne man are going under the hammer this month
Irita Marriott Auctioneers & Valuers will be selling paintings from the estate of the late Peter West, who was from Melbourne
Peter was an avid collector and the sale includes several paintings by local artists Lawrie Williamson and Gill Bickerstaff
One of these, an oil on canvas called Club Show, depicts the Pigeon Club at Melbourne and was painted by Lawrie Williamson It is estimated to sell for between £700 and £900
There is also a self-portrait by Lawrie Williamson entitled Derbyshire Collier, and a portrait of Peter with his dog, Cu, that was painted by Gill and given as a present to Peter
The sale takes place over June 18 and 19
Meanwhile, a cigarette holder originally belonging to Oscar Wilde smashed through its estimate at Irita Marriott’s May auction
The lighter was part of a larger collection of items recovered from the Hotel d’Alsace in Paris, where Wilde was famously staying when he died in 1900
Sold with the original receipt and catalogue listing from Bonhams, the lighter had an auction estimate of £300-£600 but eventually sold for £900
MELBOURNE-based home staging firm Lemon and Lime Interiors has celebrated its 10year anniversary with ambitious growth plans
Founded in 2015 by entrepreneur and author Elaine Penhaul, the Derbyshire-based firm has staged more than 1,500 properties for estate
agents and vendors, forging industry-first partnerships and innovating home staging services to help sell high and fast
Now Elaine and her team are planning the next steps in the company’s growth, with plans to create a franchising model to pass on their home staging skills to budding entrepre-
neurs
Elaine said: “Ten years ago when home staging was an emerging concept in the UK, there was limited understanding of how home staging could transform the property market
“We recognised the real need to innovate to reach the concept’s enormous potential ”
ABOVE: The Peter West and Cu painting by Gill Bickerstaff.
LEFT: Club Show by Lawrie Williamson.
Flower power fills the parish church
by Frank Hughes
AS part of its 900th anniversary celebrations Melbourne Parish Church was festooned over the Bank Holiday weekend with floral displays created by many of the local community groups in the village
Organiser Rachel Hewitt said the event was aimed to bring the community together through flowers The idea was for anyone to have a go, and she was delighted that 26 groups had created displays
“It has been a fabulous turn out, too,” she said “The church was packed out on Friday, with visits from Community Care, Bluebell nursery and the junior school children ”
One of the most extraordinary displays was from Lydia Ramsden representing the United Reformed Church, combining flowers with a VE Day tribute that focussed on Melbourne in the war years, particularly wartime weddings and memories
Lydia, herself a lifelong enthusiast of all things Forties, has a collection of period items and clothing from the 1940s She had visited the records office in Matlock and obtained details of some wartime weddings which she featured in her exhibit She also displayed wartime recipes and had made very tasty cakes to sample, made from the limited ingredients which would have been available but rationed at the time
Another intriguing exhibit was the model of the parish church and surrounding buildings The model had been made in 2020 by David and Christine Astle and took nine months to complete Made of card, it featured interactive sounds of the church organ, the choir, and bell ringing
The floral exhibits included a stunning display of seasonal peonies and wildflowers encircling the baptismal font to represent the past, present and future of the 900-year-old church
The event attracted a huge number of visitors over the weekend, so popular that it is anticipated it may become an annual event
Fancy tucking into a Medieval banquet?
MELBOURNE Parish Church will be transformed into the setting for a Medieval Banquet on Friday, July 1.
The organisers said: “This will be a medieval evening of merry-making and will include a meal of hog roast food, courtesy of local butcher Wayne Spiers, pudding and cheese and fruit, together with the renowned celebration ‘900 ale’ and wine available.”
Period entertainment will include medieval background music, performances by ‘live’ lute player, Nick Gravestock and an appearance by a costumed actress (Lesley Smith) playing the role of a lady called Katherine Swynsford, who was born in 1349 and died in 1403
Katherine had something of a life of notoriety, most famously being the ‘Mistress’ of John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and fourth son of Edward lll, whom she bore at least four children However, as the relationship caused so much condemnation John was forced to break up with her in 1381
The relationship between Katherine and John and his family remained cordial and in 1387 she was made a Lady of the Garter by King Richard ll. In the early 1390s, their love affair rekindled and, after the death of John’s second wife and much to the discontent of the English nobility, he married his ‘Mistress’ in 1396 The Duke died in 1399 and Katherine retired to her rented house in Lincoln, where she died in 1403
The organisers added: “This is sure to be an evening of historic enjoyment with food, licensed bar, refreshments, entertainment and merriment ”
Although not required, guests are free to go in period costume, so time to freshen up your wimples!
Produce show is back
MELBOURNE Produce Show is being held again this year after raising £1,200 for Community Care in 2024
The show will once more be raising money for Melbourne Community Care and will also be donating fresh produce to Swadlincote Food Bank
Local businesses will be involved in the judging, and there will be some new categories based on last year ’s feedback – along with familiar favourites
Posters and leaflets will be distributed through the village this summer for the event which will be held at the parish church on Saturday, September 6
For more information email louise smith0126@gmail com
TOP: Lydia Ramsden dressed 40s style ABOVE: Rachel Hewitt
WHICH decade could ing Sixties? Roaring 4 Are you a former ‘ want another chance Melbourne Carniva nary this year and or out a call to help mak ting 100th birthday ce This year ’s process and local groups hav represent different er 70s and
CARNIVAL’S C
THE crowning of this year ’s Melbourne Carnival King had a very special person in the audience.
Gordon Frost, 82, was at the event at the MSP and shared beautiful photos of his wife whom he first met when she was crowned Miss Melbourne – as the competition was originally called – back in 1961!
Marilyn Crossley (pictured left) was 16 when she won that year ’s competition which in those days was held in the public hall on Derby Road – now Amalfi White Gordon, 82, can remember the day as if it was yesterday In those days the public hall held regular dances and he was in attendance when that year ’s Miss Melbourne competition was taking place
Marilyn was ‘number seven’ – “lucky number seven,” as Gordon put it
“The place was absolutely full,” he said “Everybody was enjoying themselves Then, when the announcement came for the Miss Melbourne competition, I remember looking and saying, ‘that Marilyn sure is a nice girl!’ It was not only judged on beauty but it was judged on personality Marilyn had a personality that was equal to her beauty
“I can remember Marilyn going up and talking to the judges and I thought to myself: ‘She’s a real good looker!’ I wasn’t surprised whatsoever when she was crowned Miss Melbourne ” Marilyn and Gordon went on to get m but they might never have met at all Gordon recalled: “She was telling m on that particular night, her mum ha into hospital to have a baby At the t was the Nightingale in Derby, and M was telling me she was a bit apprehen
have a centenary vent to remember
d you be? The Swing40s?
Miss Melbourne’ and to enjoy the moment?
l is marking its centerganisers are putting
e the 2025 event a fitelebration
ion theme is ‘decades’
e been signing up to ras including the 30s,
e would love to hear nisations who would nd they also want as Melbourne’ winners to ession too.
cey Ridley said: “The
carnival started as a way of people showing off. People were proud of their businesses and groups and showed it to their community.
“We are proud to be continuing this 100year-old tradition. It’s all about bringing the village together ”
Those interested in taking part in the procession have free rein on what vehicles they use – lorries are an option for anyone who can access one but vintage cars, fancy open topped motors, flat bed trailers and even a wheelbarrow can join in the fun, or your own two feet!
Businesses and local groups have expressed an interest and organisers would like to ensure this year ’s event is bigger and better than ever.
Any previous Melbourne Carnival Queens who would like to put on their glad rags and take part are very welcome, and organisers would love to see anyone who still has their original sash, tiara, or any other memorabilia from their crowning.
This year ’s event on Melbourne Junior School playing field has a great line-up with performances from Oasis Forever, WT Funk – plus Hey Beatles and the spectacular Pedal Power Vs Parkour
Anyone who would like to take part in the procession whether they are a former Miss Melbourne or a group wanting to organise a float is asked to email the team on melbournecarnival@hotmail.co.uk or Tim Margett on timmargett@gmail.com or phone him on 07971 481312.
CROWNING GLORIES
she was not quite sure if her dad was going to let her go to the dance
“He had said, ‘Yes, you can go, providing you’re back home by 10 30’ I can remember Marilyn telling me that she went home at the time she was told to, and that she had the biggest bouquet of flowers She went running into her dad and said ‘Dad, I’ve won!’
“Marilyn went to the hospital but wasn’t allowed to visit – she had to wait outside so her dad took these flowers in and her mum said: ‘How did she go on at Miss Melbourne?’ Her dad said, ‘She won it’ ” Marilyn went on to lead the procession riding on a Laban’s lorry accompanied by her attendants
She and Gordon later got married and enjoyed a full life together in Melbourne, with Marilyn sadly passing away some years ago
Attending this year ’s event, Gordon said it was great to see the tradition being carried on and that while some things have changed there are many elements that remain the same – such as the questions posed to contestants
married
me that d gone ime, it Marilyn sive as
“I think it’s fantastic they are still doing it,” he said
This year Melbourne Carnival celebrates its 100th birthday and the theme for the procession is ‘Decades’ Contact the team on melbournecarnival@hotmail co uk for more information on how to take part
l A group took on the theme of synchronised swimming at one carnival procession
l 1930’s Carnival Queen, Norah Earp with her Maids of Honour Mildred Astle, Gwen Jackson, Mary Gresley, Blanche Pepper, Sophia Tivet and Joan Jackson.
Mastering Melbourne
Earth Day was just out of this world
IT FELT good to be able to celebrate Earth Day in such a special location as Whistlewood Common TAS and I had earmarked a few definite activities for the day including the Rekalibrator and Forest Bathing and obviously the coffee and cake stall.
It wasn’t all take though; I handed over a vegan banana loaf when we arrived – one of the good things to come out of Covid years when I learnt how to bake one That said, who didn’t?
First though was a tour of the Common, including the orchards, compost area and vegetable garden
These are maintained by the volunteers who are encouraged to learn best practice in these areas We were also taken through to the Forest School and wooded area
The common was larger than I had realised and was doing important things for the community, health wise and business wise, as well as maintaining a wonderful habitat for Mother Nature’s darlings
While waiting for our Forest Bathing taster, we walked the Rekalibrator This consists of three interlocking spirals designed to engage participants in the core ethics of permaculture: care for the earth,
care for people and fair share
Bare footed you follow the spirals around as you take time to reflect It was good to see the children being encouraged to walk them too, with discussions going on as to how they can help interact with the environment
The forest bathing was a huge success for us Stopping and becoming aware of our surroundings among the trees was special as we noted the sounds, colours and how we felt (Having the space to lie down and just be, should be law at least three times a week!)
This is not always possible, but it’s wonderful to know we have a devoted area, loved and tended by like minded people who just want to make the Earth a place where the busyness of our everyday holds a haven
Well done to all the volunteers who made the day such a success It was good to be able to celebrate with them as they also received their King’s Award for Voluntary Service from The Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Elizabeth Fothergill, CBE
It seems a sharp handbrake turn to then be writing about East Midlands Airport after celebrating Earth Day – but here goes
For those of you who read the first
Mastering Melbourne column you may remember my excitement at living so close to an airport Well, finally this paid off My youngest took a cheap flight to Rome this month and, despite it being a 04 15 dropoff, I was back in bed by 04 35
A slight delay while I had a peek outside to see if the hedgehogs were still awake, or if they were retiring to bed like me
Then on her return flight, this time from Dubrovnik, once she had passed over the garden – I may have been tracking her flight – I gave her 25 minutes to clear security and set off to collect her So much easier than Heathrow! Although, next time I might suggest a parachute
I too had been away for a week at the end of May and did enjoy the fact that the landing and bed were less than an hour in between!
A visit to the Flower Festival at the Parish Church upon my return was also grounding, but in a different way
Having spent a week away from our lovely village it was good to be reminded of all the groups and societies that bind the village together There were creative displays in different spaces in the church, and it made for an interesting morning I was particularly taken with
by Naomi Duffree
Melbourne Town Band’s floral display from sheet music; the VE Day theme and war efforts displayed by the Methodist church were moving and the church model of St Michael with St Mary, made by David and Christine Astle in 2020, was a lovely sight, with the hatches, matches and dispatches shown around the different sides of the church
I also learned that there is a local peony farmer, Elonor Tivey, who not only contributed to the Civic Society’s display, but filled the very font she was christened in with gorgeous displays of these truly abundant flowerheads The circle of life is everywhere
Be it spirals or circles – it appears Melbourne is in good shape this spring
As mentioned, it seems ironic celebrating both Earth Day and the airport But if we do what we can for the earth while also living our lives as consciously as possible, then it can go some way to recalibrating the whole system
The Common Touch...
WHISTLEWOOD folks are busy getting ready for our biggest day of the year, the Midsummer Music Festival. Preparations have been going on for some time to get a great line-up of musical entertainment and this year we have some favourites back along with some new bands
With a mix of folk, rock, singer songwriters, punk, it’s a dolly mixture of musical delights for your aural delectation. Sorry, getting a bit music hall there and I'm not even the compere!
We have the Mink Hounds back and Horth World, Schmaughan, Kitten Pyramid, Short Notice and The Oxeye Daisies, Stargazy Folk, and more!
Basically, there is something for everyone and if you fancy a turn getting up on stage there’s an open mic slot. Of course there’s other entertainment; goes without saying there’ll be wheelbarrow racing, possibly a human fruit machine, cha cha cha lesson, some welly wanging and other fun stuff, lots of crafts for kids, too A smorgasbord of fun, is that a thing? It is now
One of the biggest jobs for volunteers on the day is manning the tea and cake stall; it’s probably the busiest stall and takes a good bit of preparation from the team and all the cake bakers There will be other food stalls as well
We’re having our very own beer trail
MELBOURNE is not missing out on the growing trend to organise “ale trails” around towns and villages that have plenty to offer locals and visitors alike.
The Melbourne Beer Trail is an idea brought to fruition by local district councillor Matthew Gotheridge and will be held from Thursday, July 31, to August 3
Ten pubs and bars in Melbourne and King’s Newton have signed up to take part and there is a prize draw that can be entered by visiting a number of them and collecting a stamp to say you have done so
Successful similar ale trails have gone down very well in Burton on Trent and Tutbury recently.
“I have seen these sorts of events work brilliantly in other places and the best thing about them is that, at a time when things are difficult for pubs, they generate interest and bring in extra business – for everyone,” says Councillor Gotheridge
“People will go to several pubs if they’re taking part when, normally, they might only go to one or two, if they go at all.
“It’s also important to point out that we’re not encouraging binge drinking, far from it You don’t have to visit all 10 pubs in one session, nor do you have to visit them all to be eligible for the prize draw, and non-alcoholic drinks also qualify for the prize draw.”
The 10 taking part are, in approximately geographical order from the south upwards, The Brewhouse, Spirit Vaults, White Swan, Bank of Beers, Melbourne Inn, Harpur ’s, Alma Inn, Amalfi White, Melbourne RBL and the Hardinge Arms at King’s Newton.
and did I mention the Leatherbritches bar?
This is a really important event for us as it is our main fund-raiser for the year so if you’ve not been before we’d really love you to join us Tickets are reasonably priced as well as under 13s being free There are even cheaper tickets for everyone if bought in advance
Make it a proper festival experience by camping overnight. It’s a great way to introduce your family to what festivals are all about but probably within walking distance of your house! Or a short bus ride away
There is some parking that our volunteers help organise, a very responsible position but we encourage all to come on foot or public transport if possible. You can find out about Whistlewood Common and our festival on Facebook and at our website.
It wouldn’t be right not to mention and thank Roger Spencer, who is our driving force behind this event
Come and join us for the day, enjoy our beautiful site, meet our fantastic volunteers – without them we’d never have won the Kings Award for Voluntary Service. I mention that again with no apology as it’s an incredible achievement
– KATHERINE PARRISH
DOWN ON THE FARM
With Ben Stanley
YAY! It rained! And then it’s rained and rained and rained Typical
But that’s ok, because the green farming utopia I was enthusiastically describing last month, was all rapidly transforming into a rather unhealthy shade of brown, as dehydrated pasture withered and barley bolted into head early in yet another unusual and record breaking weather event The driest spring in England in more than 100 years
The rain finally arrived in the nick of time; the April showers must have just missed the bus and have caught up two months later than normal
But the dry spell wasn’t all bad news I had forgotten until last week that virtually every gutter on the farm leaks and it was a pleasure to have liberated myself early from wearing my rather unfashionable PVC waterproof trousers and matching coat that I wear all winter
Calves and lambs thrived being turned out from the sheds early with the sun on their backs, with no wind, rain or even snow to check their growth
Silage was made without the threat of dark skies to ruin the crop and, although there wasn’t a lot of grass to mow because it had been so dry, what was cut will be very good quality
Neighbouring farmers’ maize was drilled into perfect seedbeds and our wild bird seed mixes couldn’t have gone in better and now it’s rained, the three most important things a farmer needs have combined: heat, light and finally water Now everything will be better
Except the damage the dry weather has done two of our bulls has already been done Notwithstanding the fact that a bull’s libido drops off a cliff when the weather is too hot – yes that’s right, as the temperature rises too high, they would much rather be sat
KELLARI authentic Greek restaurant in Beeston gained a lot of interest when opening during 2023 and has continued to do so, with residents, locals (and visitors) dining regularly
I commenced my meal with Olives and Pita –traditional and very popular Then, king prawns (baked in spicy tomato sauce with ouzo and peppers, topped with crumbled feta) A great start giving every confidence for the following courses
I favoured the traditional Greek Moussaka for my main (potatoes, aubergines, courgettes layered with mince beef and creamy cheese and béchamel sauce, served with wild rocket and tomato salad) An exceptional delectation for ‘Greek foodies’, having complementing flavours in abundance and with presentation set to impress
Head Chef is Kostas, who ensures, with Alexis and the team, delights for all who dine Further choices included meats, fish, vegetarian and vegan dishes
For dessert I selected Galaktaboureko (Greek filo pastry stuffed with homemade vanilla custard and soaked in honey syrup) Splendid
Other options included the hugely popular Baklava and more, which are all made on-site by their pastry chef with over 35 years experience
Exemplary service continues throughout Truly authentic and highly recommended
The same family organisation is behind the 4 Chefs venue in Nottingham A unique culinary concept for foodies featuring freshly prepared and baked Greek pastries and specialised homemade patisserie as well as Greek street food and soon fresh handmade pasta!
under a tree in the shade than charging about in rigorous courtship The middle-aged me can certainly empathise with that rationale But it hasn’t been extreme heat that has caused the issue, it has been the hard ground
There are only two things a bull really, really needs to have: plenty of lead in his pencil and a decent set of back legs The rest of the things; big shapely bottom, straight level back, length, nice movement, handsome head, amiable character, desirable markings all matter But they don’t really, because fundamentally a bull first and foremost needs to be able to do his job so that nine months from now little cows come out of bigger cows All they need to do more than anything else is to be able to jump on their back legs and shoot
We aim to calve our cows from Valentine’s Day for six weeks and so now is the big moment for our bulls; this is it, they have waited around all year for this chance and no sooner than the big bovine rut started a couple of weeks ago it ended for two of our Longhorn bulls
Poor old Axiom and Isaac are back in the pavilion, having both taken a tumble whilst performing on such a hard wicket Unlike cricket these guys need a soft pitch with a good green top that gives them plenty of bounce during the rigours of their busy day
And it can be a very busy day, each bull is allocated as many as 40 bovine lovers at any one time, but if the ground is too hard and a few cows all decide that the time is right at the same time, a bull can soon lose his head and do himself an injury, turning an ankle or slipping and hurting their hip and that is exactly where we are at with poor old Isaac and Axiom
They’ve essentially been waiting for their Olympics, their Six Nations, their FA Cup for 10
months and then gone and done a hammy’ on the first lap
With your breeding herd ‘bull power ’ at this time of year is everything When you need them you need them But it’s a fine balance, good bulls are expensive things costing between £5k-£10k and they are hard to keep over the winter because you need to keep them apart from each other to stop them from fighting like a bunch of bored drunken lads at the end of a night out, waiting for a taxi outside the kebab shop
At Park Farm the right number of bulls is three, a king, an heir and a spare, rotated frequently between the 80 breeding cows that are split into two groups With just one bull still out called Merlin it is important we manage his workload and that we can get the other guys fit and back in the game
In my panic I have gone out and purchased a new young yearling Longhorn bull called Yellowstone, but in hindsight that isn’t really going to solve any problems in the short term either and reminds me of an old farming story
There are two bulls at the top of a field, an old bull and a young bull At the bottom of the field is a lovely herd of cows, fluttering their eyelashes and chewing juicy cuds of grass
‘Come on!’ shouted the young bull to the old bull, ‘let’s run down to the cows and mate with one of those cows!’ The old bull gets up, stretches, coolly glances over to the young bull and says ‘why don’t we just take our time and walk down the hill and breed with them all’
So we can’t rely on young Yellowstone to solve our problems yet and, although it took time for the rain to arrive it always does in the end Our two old bulls need a bit of time to recuperate and I need to learn to be more patient like the old bull in the story
Reservoir water levels at a low point
WATER levels at Staunton Harold Reservoir have dropped to some of their lowest levels in the past few years after some of the driest conditions in more than 100 years.
On June 2 the reservoir was 75 per cent full, having dropped since the previous week
Water levels at the reservoir have been steadily falling since the start of the year, with records showing it was nearly at full capacity at the start of 2025
The last time the reservoir recorded lower levels was in September 2024 when it was at 71 per cent.
Spring this year has been dry across the UK with conditions in midMay at their driest in more than 100 years
July:
Creative Melbourne Gallery Exhibition
Anthology
Featuring: Anna Binns, Viv Cawson, Alison Evans, Amanda Hughes, Mary Johnson, Zaza Lewis, Deboarh Miles, Stephen Shiro, Rachel Wilcock, Christina Williams & Zoe Zegzula.
Creative Melbourne Gallery, Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne DE73 8EJ Open Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm.
Saturday 14 June:
Creative Melbourne Workshop
Photograph Melbourne Hall Garden
Meet outside Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms DE73 8EN - 10 - 12 noon
Join Fine Art Photographer Beth Edge for a workshop exploring the features of Melbourne Hall Gardens. We can all snap photos to save a memory, but Beth will show us how to see the extraordinary in the ordinary and frame shots to create picture perfect images on a private visit to these beautiful gardens. Bring your phone or camera. The workshop is suitable for adults and over 16’s.
To book, email makeit-creativemelbournefestival@outlook.com or call 07962 430450
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June:
Melbourne Historical Research Group Exhibition: Streets of Melbourne M to W
Melbourne Assembly Rooms. 10am - 5pm both days. Free entry. Refreshments available. All welcome.
Saturday 14 June:
Medieval Fayre and Hog Roast
featuring Medieval reenactment society Chevaliers du Leon.
Church Square, Melbourne approx 10.30 to 4pm. Families welcome. Free admission.
Wednesday 18 June:
Me & Dee Charity Quiz Night
Melbourne Sporting Partnership. 6pm for 7.15pm. £10 per person inc food.
Friday 20 June:
Music Time Annual Teddy Bears Picnic
Musical fun for babies, toddler, preschool children.
Melbourne Assembly Rooms . Text Tracey to book 07866 689971.
Saturday 21 June:
Coffee Morning
United Reformed Church Hall, High Street. 10am - noon.
Saturday 21 June:
Creative Melbourne Gallery Workshop Fused Glass ‘Seascape Waves’ with Stevie Davies.1.30pm - 3.30pm. £50 per person. Create your own fused glass free standing ‘seascape wave’ sculpture. To book: go to: www.stevie-davies.co.uk search ‘Workshops’.
Saturday 21 June:
Whistlewood Summer Music Festival
Save the date for a bonanza of 10 local bands, great food and lots of family fun! www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop
Saturday 21 June: Flower Power Workshop with Creative Melbourne
The South Derbyshire Festival of Leisure, Maurice Lea Memorial Park, Church Gresley DE11 9NW
Join us to make bold red poppies, delicate daisies, golden dandelions and many more! Artist led activity for all ages. 11.30 - 4.30pm
Sunday 22 June:
Art About Town with Creative Melbourne
The South Derbyshire Festival of Leisure, Maurice Lea Memorial Park, Church Gresley DE11 9NW.
Make and decorate 3d paper houses led by artist Jenny Stevenson. For all ages. 11.30 - 4.30pm
Tuesday 24 June:
Melbourne Community Care
Memory Cafe
Melbourne Assembly Rooms 1.30pm-3.30pm. For people with dementia & their families & carers or experiencing memory loss.
Friday 27 June:
Melbourne Civic Society
A Midsummer Evening at Melbourne Hall
Members with guests: Advanced tickets £25 per person. Inc. buffet meal and glass of wine on entry: 7.30pm.
Saturday 28 June:
Coffee Morning
Catholic Church, St Mary's Hall, Church Street. 10am - noon.
Saturday 28 June:
Table Top Sale
Milton Village Hall - DE65 6EF 10am - 1pm.
Come and pick up a bargain! Homemade Cakes & Refreshments, Raffle.
Donations of bric-a-brac and other items would be gratefully received.
Contact: Liz 07790 979303 Sue 07793 542273 Helen 07759 494000. Milton Village Hall Charity.
Sunday 29 June:
Breedon on the Hill Open Gardens & Yard Sale
From 11am - 3.30pm, followed by a "Remembering loved ones" service at Breedon Priory church at 4pm. Its a free event but we are raising funds for the church so any donations are very welcome. The WI will also be serving refreshments in the Parish Hall.
Tuesday 1 July: Melbourne Community Care
Coffee & Company
Melbourne Assembly Rooms, 2 - 4pm.
Saturday 5 July:
Coffee Morning
Methodist Church Wesley Hall, Potter Street. 10am - noon.
Saturday 12 July:
Melbourne Fete & Carnival
The School Playing Fields, Packhorse Road, Melbourne. Procession from Castle Square starts at 11.45am
Saturday 12 July:
Coffee Morning
Baptist Church Schoolroom, Chapel Street. 10am - noon.
Friday 18 July - Saturday 19 July:
Melbourne Operatic Society proudly presents Songs from the Shows
Friday 18 July: Melbourne Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm.
Saturday 19 July: Castle Donington Community Hub, 7.30pm. Tickets: £10 including wine and nibbles. See ad on P7.
Friday 18 July: Music Time 25th Birthday Party
Musical fun for babies, toddler, preschool children. Melbourne Assembly Rooms. Text Tracey to book 07866 689971.
Saturday 9 August:
Creative Melbourne Workshop Wire Seed Head Stems Workshop
Creative Melbourne Gallery, Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne DE73 8EJ 10.30 - 4pm
Join Judith Brown for a nature inspired workshop where we’ll create mostly 3D wire seed head stems to display in a vase. Inspiration will come from seed heads such as cow parsley, poppies, grasses and more. All materials, tea and cake included. £85.
To book email judith@judithbrownjewellery.co.uk or call 07733 026077
Thursday 28 August:
Creative Melbourne Workshop
Sketching Melbourne Hall Gardens
Meet outside Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms DE73 8EN - 10 - 12 noon. Join artist Jenny Stevenson for a morning sketching “walk-shop” in Melbourne Hall Gardens. Wander through the gardens drawing the architecture, sculptures, fountains and water features. Enjoy two hours on a private visit to these beautiful gardens. The workshop is suitable for adults and over 16’s. Materials & equipment supplied.
To book, email makeit-creativemelbournefestival@outlook.com or call 07962 430450
Thursday 28 August:
Creative Melbourne Workshop Sketch & Stroll at Melbourne Parish Church
Meet at The Honner Room, Melbourne Rectory DE73 8EN,1.30 -3.30pm
As part of Melbourne Parish Church’s 900th Anniversary celebrations, join artist Jenny Stevenson for a “beginners walk-shop” around the Church, looking at the beautiful stonework and exterior and then the stunning stained glass, stone carvings and artefacts inside. The workshop is suitable for adults and over 16’s. Materials & equipment supplied.
To book, email makeit-creativemelbournefestival@outlook.com or call 07962 430450
Every Tuesday:
Melbourne Community Care
Bereavement Group
MSP, Cockshut Lane, Melbourne 10am -12pm. Friendly group for anyone affected by a bereavement.
Members of the Parish Council
Chairman
Andy Dawson 07811 586049
Vice Chairman
Nigel Collyer 07831 540538
Facilities & Events
Matt Gotheridge
Highways & Environment
Mick Usher
Planning
David Smith 01332 862699
Finance, HR, Risk & Strategy
Andy Dawson 07811 586049
Councillors
Kate Beckett
Dave Calvert
Jane Carroll 01332 863269
Nigel Collyer 07831 540538
Andy Dawson 07811 586049
George Dunnicli 07780 806267
Matt Gotheridge
Kevin Guilford
Sheila Hicklin
David Smith 01332 862699
Terry Summerlin 07528 884778
Angela Tillyard
Mick Usher
Joe Ward 07585 537280
Clerk Vicky Roe 07734 939292
clerk@melbourneparishcouncil.gov.uk
Assistant Clerk
Kate Bedford 07966 461416
Useful
Numbers...
Aircraft Noise & Complaints 0845 1088540
Clean Team ( y tipping) 0800 5872349
Street Lighting Faults 0845 6058058
Potholes 0845 6058058
www.melbourneparishcouncil.gov.uk
Melbourne Parish Council
Chairman’s Report - June 2025
The cemetery on Packhorse Road was a prominent feature of business at the full council meeting on Tuesday 3rd June.
Maintenance of the cemetery grounds plus grave digging and interments have been temporarily outsourced to contractors, whilst the council complete the recruitment process for a new sexton.
Councillors had a follow-up meeting on site on Thursday 5th June, to review the standard of grounds maintenance work and to discuss urgent work for two other important projects. The Chapels buildings require work to ensure that they are structurally sound and the roof does not continue to let in water. This activity will be progressed in July.
Last year, the Parish Council undertook a programme of work to measure the integrity of all Headstones and Memorials in the cemetery. In accordance with legal requirements, memorials must undergo testing every ve years. Any unstable or hazardous memorials are identi ed and then cordoned o . Approximately 60 memorials were found to be unsafe and to comply with our legal obligation as the land owner, the Parish Council must make these headstones and memorials safe, which in many cases will necessitate laying the headstones and memorials at on the ground. The Council will publish on it’s Website and on Notices to be posted at the cemetery, details of the unsafe memorials. If any parishioners have concerns over memorials of family members, please check the names on the list.
Good progress has been made with South Derbyshire District Council, regarding responsibility for upkeep of Thomas Cook Memorial Gardens on the High Street. We anticipate that agreement will be reached so that the Parish Council can soon transform the gardens into a beautiful area of tranquillity for everyone to enjoy.
Derbyshire County Council and National Grid have been slow to respond to our calls for restoration of the Hilly Fields footpath to a safe state, a legal challenge is looming if no progress is forthcoming.
Finally, we have asked both the District and County Councils to address the need for additional Electric Vehicle charging points, particularly given the di culties for EV owners living in terraced properties.
Andy Dawson Chairman, Melbourne Parish Council
‘Rat Pack’ treat for Melbourne
LAS Vegas came to Melbourne with the staging of the ‘Rat Pack Reprise’ starring ITV news weather presenter Des Coleman as Sammy Davis Junior alongside seasoned performers Tony Martin as Frank Sinatra and Paul Drakeley as Dean Martin
The capacity and sold-out audience of 250 laughed and sang along as they joined the Kings of Cool for a unique performance – Vegas style The wonderful, award-winning show faithfully re-created the music, magic and comedy of the trio at the height of their fame and legendary shows in Las Vegas when they ruled the entertainment world The singers not only sang like their heroes they physically resembled them on stage, sharing their unique mannerisms and even talked like they were at the Sands Casino taking part in the summit
The show took in all of the hit songs made popular by the legendary performers such as including “Ain’t That A Kick In The Head”, “The Lady Is A Tramp”, “My Way”, “Mr Bojangles” and finished with a packed dance floor high-kicking and singing along to ‘New York New York’
There was also a surprise guest appearance by Maria Lara singing as Liza Minelli with the whole evening being compered by the newly elected chair of the parish council, Andy Dawson, who led the audience in a rousing rendition of the National Anthem to celebrate and commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day
Summary of the proposed licensable activities (hours and activities applied for): Plays, lms, indoor sporting events, live music, recorded music, performances of dance anything of a similar description to that falling within live music, recorded music or performances of dance – indoors and outdoors Monday – Sunday: 08:00hrs – 22:30hrs
Supply of alcohol – on and o sales Monday – Sunday: 08:00hrs – 22:30hrs
Date of application: 3rd June 2025
Last date for representations: 1st July 2025
The register can be viewed during o ce hours at South Derbyshire District Council, Civic O ces, Civic Way, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 0AH. Please contact 01283 221000 in order to make an appointment. Alternatively, the full application can be viewed at www.southderbyshire.gov.uk. Any representation relating to this application must be made in writing to the Licensing Authority by 29 consecutive days after the date of this notice.
The performers themselves were full of praise for the venue and audience, Des Coleman saying “I had a great night, what an atmosphere and Melbourne people sure know how to party, we would all love to return” Tony Martin added: “They say you are only as good as your audience and you guys were awesome ”
The show, staged in the luxurious setting of the Melbourne Pavilion at the Melbourne Sporting Partnership, was organised in association with the MSP and the Melbourne Rugby Club raising just over £2,000 for
POLICE have been conducting knife sweeps in Aston, Elvaston and Melbourne as part of national Operation Sceptre week Police said: “Whilst we know it is the minority of people who think it is acceptable to carry a knife, it can have devastating consequences when they do
“This work means that we can check for any discarded knives or weapons and safely dispose of them, keeping them from getting into the wrong hands ”
Trophy reward for Henry’s hard work
A MELBOURNE teenager with a passion for football has been awarded with a special trophy in recognition of his commitment to training young players
Henry James, 17, is the latest recipient of the Tony Coffey Memorial Award, given annually by Melbourne Dynamo Football Club to recognise someone who has shown extraordinary commitment
This is the seventh year the award has been presented by the club and the Coffey family, in memory of a much-loved coach who trained many young people in the 1980s and 90s
In keeping with tradition Henry was surprised by being awarded with the trophy at the end of a training session for Melbourne Dynamo’s Pan-Disability team where he has been helping out every weekend for the past year
Former professional footballer David Norton, who trains the Pan-Disability players, said he was delighted for Henry to receive the recognition He said: “Henry’s strength is that he connects with the kids and makes the sessions exciting whilst helping them to feel that they are safe and important “He gives his time as a volunteer and his commitment is inspiring to me and the parents His ability to lead a session and involve each child is great to see and I’m very proud of him A very mature and talented young man who deserves this award and I know the kids and parents will be happy for him As
I am ”
Melbourne Dynamo Football Club chair Conor Raynor said: “When I asked if any of my players wanted to help with the Pan-Disability team, I knew Henry would be the one to volunteer before I even sent the message out His willingness to go above and beyond to help others is something to behold
“Henry has given up his Saturdays over the last 12 months, providing the children in the Pan-Disability team opportunities to play football Every time I walk past with the dog, I can see the kids beaming when they’re playing with Henry and they just feed off his energy
“I’d also like to thank Dave Norton for being an excellent mentor for Henry during this time, and also Cathy, Henry’s mum, who has stepped in on numerous occasions to help out with sessions
“Henry epitomises what Melbourne Dynamo are about We step up when needed and we help each other out We are one club, one community and Henry shows that every time he pulls on a Dynamo top He is a brilliant young leader, and I hope he remains part of this club for a very long time ”
Henry, who has been playing for Melbourne Dynamo since he was very young, said: “I’m obsessed with football! I just love everything about the game I want to give back – this football club has given me so much over the years ”
TABLE-TOPPING TOWN
MELBOURNE Town Cricket Club’s first team continued their superb start to the 2025 season through May, which began with a comfortable six-wicket victory away to Clifton 2nds.
The home side looked well set on 77-3 at drinks but a quite superb spell of 6-26 by Dadurrahman Ghani aided by Qadir Zadran with 3-31 saw Clifton fall to 140 all out With Uzzy Awais top scoring on 36 not out Melbourne ran out winners with 13 overs to spare
A week later at home to Mickleover 2nds, Town found themselves batting first and scored an impressive 288 all out – mainly down to a brilliant stand of 150 by top scorer Ash Elwell (78) and skipper Alex Slater (61) along with 48 by Muhammad Nadeem (48)
In reply the visitors rallied late on after three wickets apiece from Zadran and Nadeem but the first team had done enough as Mickleover ended on 252-8, giving Melbourne a 36-run win
Town made it six wins out of six the following week away to Kings Bromley 1st team
On a very difficult wicket Sohail Hussain was superb in taking 3-18, with Nadeem (3-29) and Ghani (3-30) also in the wickets as the home side struggled to 107 all out
Town looked to be cruising on 58-2 but a collapse of five wickets for just 12 runs meant it was down to Nadeem with 41 not out to see them home by just three wickets
A first defeat of the season followed a week later as Trentside arrived at the MSP and amassed an impressive 253-9 off their allotted overs with only three wickets apiece for Hussain and Faz Mehmood stemming the run flow
In reply Melbourne looked well set on 101-1 but the loss of opener Elwell (46) saw them slump to 121-5 and, some late order hitting from Awais (46) was in vain as the first team fell 24 runs short
Slater ’s men finished the month still top of the league as they demolished Chellaston 2nds, bowling them out for just 113 with Ghani (4-13) and Zadran (4-25) doing the damage and knocking them off for the loss of just two wickets with nearly 28 overs to spare as Nadeem top scored on 53 not out
By contrast the club’s second team have struggled and began the month with a disappointing three-wicket defeat to visitors Ashbourne 2nd team
This was despite setting 224 thanks mainly to a superb 82 from Bali Chohan supported by Sunny Dhiman (42) and 3-43 from Ranjit Rathore with the ball
The following week travelling to top of the table Spondon 4ths the home scored a huge 246 all out as Chohan (4-23) plus two wickets apiece from Singh and Jones at least stemmed the flow and Town looked well set on 193-2
But the dismissal of top scorer Anthony Barnes
(93), who put on 161 with Gurwinder Singh (89) saw the 2nds slump to 235 all out, eventually losing by just 11 runs It was three defeats in a row a week later
Batting first, Town posted a respectable 227-9 with Rathore (53) and Matt Nicholson (42 not out) the main contributors In reply Kirk Langley 1sts bludgeoned their way to an easy sevenwicket win
The luck continued to go against John Collin's men as they travelled to Packington 1sts and, being put in on what can only be described as a 'testing' wicket, they were eventually bowled out for 89 and fell to a five-wicket defeat
But Town did end the month on a positive note with a winning draw away to Ockbrook 4ths
Batting first Melbourne fell to 24-4 but a superb partnership between top scorer Adam Walker (70) and son Isaac (37) pushed them to 205 all out Then a brilliant spell of 5-28 from Sam Raven looked to have claimed the victory but the home side’s last pair held on to a draw
Melbourne Town thirds have had a superb start to the 2025 season and, like their first team counterparts, topped their table by the end of May They began with a winning draw away to Sawley 4th team as the thirds scored 160-5 batting first
Skipper Liam Landers-sung scored a superb 88 supported by Reuben Gosling (45) and in Sawley’s reply 4-14 by Jake Wright and 2-22 from
youngster Ed Jones meant the home side ended well short on 110-8 But they claimed an easy sixwicket victory a week later at home to Tutbury 4ths
A quite brilliant spell and career best of 6-23 from Ed Jones supported by 3-25 on league debut for Michael Rennocks saw the visitors off and runs from Landers-sung (71) and Wright (33) took Town home
There was another positive result away to Kirk Langley 2nds a week later Batting first Reuben Gosling (60), Chet Patel (40), Darvin Davis (40 not out) and Ed Jones (32 not out) all scored freely to put 251-7 on the board In reply Kirk Langley could only reach 174-5 with Landerssung claiming 3-29
A 45-run win against high-flying Clifton 4ths saw Town score 217-9 as they once again batted first with that man Landers-sung smashing 70 along with Patel (45) and late order hitting from Adhir Christi (43) With Rennocks taking 4-42 the third team rose to top of the table They ended May top despite a heavy defeat to Hilton 3rds in their last game of the month with the visitors putting 204 on the board with three wickets apiece for Jacob Wright (3-27) plus youngsters Ed Jones (3-44) and Noah Gregory (325)
In reply only skipper Landers-sung stood firm with 33 as Melbourne were bowled out for just 125 and a 78-run defeat
TROPHY TIME (l-r) Donal Miller, Sue Edwards, Rae Coffey, Henry James, Freddie Coffey and Liam Coffey.
Mavericks grab first victory
THE fourth season for the Melbourne Mavericks ladies’ softball cricket has begun well with a first league win of the season Away to Etwall on a sunny Sunday on May 18, Melbourne chose to field first and a great team bowling performance kept Etwall at 253 runs with two wickets taken by Frith and Elks.
Stokes then got the Mavericks off to a brilliant start at the crease with a fantastic 26 runs Another consistent batting performance across the whole team saw a final score of 325 with only one wicket lost.
The Mavericks are enjoying their season with lovely sunny training sessions at the MSP
They will be competing in nine festivals across Derbyshire, the East Midlands knock-out Softball Cup, and the East Midlands Women’s Cricket League (Division 2 West Central).
n The MTCC Mavericks are hosting a festival at MSP on June 29 from 11-3pm There will be Amy and Ben’s Caribbean food, raffle, cake stall and plenty of cricket to watch.
Everyone is urged to go and support or better still give it a go!
Melbourne Mavericks train every Tuesday from 6-7.15pm. New members are welcome, whether they have played before or not
MAY was a busy month for Ticknall Cricket Club and it proved to be an excellent one for the first team.
It started with a home game against Spondon who won the toss and chose to bat – a poor decision as Ticknall bowlers tore into them and reduced them to 88 for eight Opener Muller survived the onslaught and with Allen put on 94 for the ninth wicket He was eventually out for 91 but managed to drag Spondon to 195 all out
In reply, Ticknall started dramatically when Wood on 12 had to retire hurt Paul orrington was bowled a short while later aving Tarrant and Cork to put on 106 bere Tarrant fell on an excellent 75 leaving ork (55 not out) to see the team home by x wickets
by David Fox
decision as they found themselves 58-5
Perara, with 69 not out, managed to get them to 171 all out with Ticknall bowlers sharing the wickets Ticknall were never in danger of losing the game with the three opening batters Wood (47) Borrington (54 not out) and Tarrant (54 not out) seeing them winning the game in the 35th over and losing only one wicket in the process
excellent start
Ticknall Seconds also had five league games in the month but could only manage one win
First game of the month was away at Sawley and the first loss of the month by 15 runs Sawley made 198 for eight in their allotted overs after being 74 for seven with Ali taking four wickets In the chase Ticknall seemed in control at 106 for five but could not reach the total, falling 15 runs short Top scorer was Holdgate
This defeat was followed by another at home to Uttoxeter Ticknall, batting first, scored 216 with Foster top scoring with 86 Uttoxeter were never in trouble and passed the total in the 38th over, losing only four wickets
Seven days later Ticknall travelled to ckbrook, always a difficult place to go ckbrook won the toss and chose to bat icknall bowlers started well, reducing the ome side to 58-3 but a fourth wicket stand 115 by Du Ploy and Brandwick pushed he total to 234 all out in the 50th over
Ticknall, without Wood or Borrington, struggled from the start and found themselves 25-5 and never really recovered, being bowled out for 105 to lose by 129 runs Only Fazal came out the game with any credit, taking four wickets and top scoring with 23
It was now back to The Grange for Ticknall with back-to-back home games, the first against Chesterfield, a fellow promoted side with Ticknall last season
Chesterfield won the toss and chose to bat Again, like Spondon on the previous home game, it appeared a poor decision as Cork proceeded to take two wickets in the very first over for no runs conceded
This set the tone for the rest of the innings as Chesterfield lost regular wickets reaching 185 all out with Cork and Wilson taking three wickets each
In reply a magnificent 93 not out by Tarrant saw the team home to win by four wickets
Next up at home was Cutthorpe Yet again the opposition won the toss and chose to bat and yet again it proved to be a poor
The final game of the month was very tough trip to Alvaston and Boulton, last year ’s champions and riding high this season Again, the opposition won the toss and chose to field on what appeared to be a difficult batting pitch Ticknall were soon in trouble losing Wood in the first over and Tarrant in the second for only five runs
Borrington and Cork then proceeded cautiously putting on 72 for the third wicket Wickets then started to tumble, Ticknall all out for 145, Cork top scoring with 54 A cautious but confident batting performance seemed to be taking Alvaston to a good win and in the 31st over they were 100-3 with almost 19 overs to score 46 runs
Almost unbelievably the game was turned on its head as 100-3 in the blink of an eye became 104-6 in the 35th over and Alvaston were under pressure A partnership of 19 seemed to settle the nerves until Cork ran out Durham and then the eighth wicket fell with a magnificent catch on the boundary by Joe Wilson diving full length
Nine overs left 12 runs to get and two wickets remaining A very tense finish and supporters on the edge of their seats No one had to wait long; within two overs Ticknall had taken the last two wickets and conceded only one more run, winning the game by 11
What seemed impossible was achieved by belief in the team
That final result gave Ticknall four wins out of five in the month and their first away win of the season The league table now places Ticknall in second place: what an
A trip to Dunstall followed but it meant another defeat, though a close one this time Dunstall made 232-4 in their allotted overs and Ticknall came close, losing by only three runs Holdgate top scored with 83
Another away game followed at Risley and yet another defeat Risley put into bat only made 166 all out with Hughes taking six wickets However, a poor chase ensued, Ticknall being bowled out for a meagre 82 in 27 overs
The final game of the month was at The Grange and May was rescued with a win against Tutbury
Tutbury could only muster 89 all out, with Lumb taking four wickets Ticknall made short work of the chase, reaching the total in 14 overs and losing only one wicket
A good finish to the month but a poor one overall Ticknall third team went through the month undefeated, winning two and drawing two
Their wins were both away to Draycott by eight wickets in a low scoring affair and at Etwall by six wickets, passing Etwall’s total of 142 with 10 overs to spare Tee took four wickets and top scored with 42 Both draws were at home against Alrewas and Clifton respectively