OBJECTIONS TO 135 HOMES PLAN
Andrew Vitner, secretary
Members of the Aston & Weston Branch of the Royal British Legion met at the village s War Memorial Hall in Aston-on-Trent to celebrate VE80 Day
Those pictured: branch chair Steve Aynsley, Ken Anderson, Mick Arnott MBE, vice chair
by Frank Hughes and Lucy Stephens
PROPOSALS to build up to 135 houses on land next to King’s Newton Lane have now been officially lodged and have already garnered significant objection
At a meeting of Melbourne Parish Council’s Planning Committee on May 6, councillors voted to object to the proposals from Richborough Homes
The developer ’s application is for the biggest housing development in the parish for many years
Councillors voted to object on the grounds that the development is not in accordance with either the district council’s emerging local plan (which strictly limits the size of any development – such as this proposal) which is outside the settlement boundary of a ‘key service village’ such as Melbourne
The meeting heard how the proposed development was also contrary to the policies in Melbourne’s own Neighbourhood Development Plan, which has been adopted by the parish council
Objectors to the proposals, including Kings Newton Residents’ Association, also point to the conflict of this application with SDDC (South Derbyshire District Council) Local Plan Part 1, adopted in 2016, Part 2, adopted in 2017, and the Neighbourhood Development plan, which was adopted in 2022
A Statement of Community Involvement accompanying the proposals said that 84 responses had been received during the developer ’s consultation period of which 13 were supportive, 12 provided comments, observations or questions, and 59 raised objections
Objections included comments that the development was for too many houses, and would cause too great a strain on the doctors’ surgery and local roads
Comprising over 30 documents the application will need some careful consideration from those reading it, but in outline the developers are claiming this is a sustainable development , although they accept that the “proposals are not wholly in accordance with the development plan” (para 4 24 of the application document)
The applicants state that 135 houses over six hectares of agricultural land would include up to 30 per cent affordable homes of mostly two-storey housing, with some one and 2 5-storey dwellings
The current definition of an affordable home is one sold at up to 20 per cent below market value
The proposal is listed under application number DMPA/2025/0438 and can be viewed in detail on South Derbyshire
District Council’s planning portal Comments on the proposals need to be made by May 23 with a decision anticipated early in July
THIS year marks 80 days since VE Day and there were a range of celebrations in the area
Church life in the Middle Ages
WITH the celebrations to mark the 900 years of Melbourne Parish Church well underway, two forthcoming events will give locals a taste of what the village might have been like in the Middle Ages.
First, on June 14, a Medieval Fayre is being held around Church Square and in the vicarage gardens, along with entertainment from the re-enactment group Chevaliers du Leon Then on July 4 the church will transform into a setting for a Medieval banquet
The Chevaliers group are based in Leicester and they specialise in both living history and combat displays, portraying the period between 1066 and 1266 At the Fayre they will set up a Medieval encampment, with examples of craftworking and food from the period There will also be an arena where a tournament will be held with combatants using swords, shields and spears, there will a talk on arms and knights’ armour, and there will be plenty of opportunities for children to join in the fun and even get knighted!
The Chevaliers are part of a larger Stronghold Reenactment Society which holds re-enactment days across the country, recreating famous battles
In addition, the day will have a traditional hog roast
by Frank Hughes
provided by Wayne Spiers, and pop-up refreshments, with home-made cakes, will be served from the Church Rooms
Melbourne Beaver Scouts are taking part in a competition to design a shield The leader of the re-enactment group will pick the winning entry, and the shields will then go on display in the church
It promises to be a great family orientated day running from around 10am to 4pm and it is free admission!
Later, on July 4 there will be a Medieval Banquet in the historic church itself A banqueting table will be set up down the aisle with a hog roast to be provided outside, with a traditional apple pie to follow for ‘afters’
To add to the historical atmosphere there will a lute player and an appearance and performance in period costume from ‘Katherine Swynford’ (actress Lesley Smith), a mistress and subsequently third wife of John of Gaunt
A licensed bar and other refreshments will be available
There’s still time to be crowned
ASPIRING Melbourne kings and queens have been reminded they can have a go at claiming their crown this month
Organisers of Melbourne Carnival are holding the village’s annual ‘King or Queen’ competition on Friday, May 16 - 6 30 for 7 00pm
All school age children living in or attending school in Melbourne are invited to go along and take part, with the chance for the winner and attendants to lead the procession opening the annual event
Organisers would love to see previous winners of Miss Melbourne
turn out on Saturday, July 12, to the carnival, which celebrates 100 years this year There is still time to enter a float and a stall Entry tickets will be sold in Sainsbury’s two weekends before and are also available online
Alison excited at return to Community Care
AFTER taking retirement from her job in the Well Pharmacy after 14 years Alison Thornhill is back at the helm of Melbourne Community Care, working alongside Claire Barker She is looking forward to being involved in many of the exciting new projects
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 TeaMuch love, Lou and the team x
Alison is no newbie to Community Care, as she was a trustee of the charity for the past two years and prior to that was a manager for seven years Alison says it is “great to be back!”
She added: “I am really looking forward to getting involved in the new support groups, like the Memory Café, the new Bereavement Group and of course Coffee and Company,” which she instigated many years ago
“We are also looking at a local stroke group and a family support group for those with special needs children
“Claire and I will be working together to raise the profile of Community Care and hopefully raise donations which are badly needed to keep funded the many services we offer ” Claire paid tribute to the previous manager, David Goalen, who retired recently
“We wish him a long and very happy retirement and extend our thanks for all that he has done,” she told Village Voice Claire added that she was
“looking forward to working with Alison, who has loads of experience and knowledge in the voluntary sector” Claire highlighted a couple of fundraising events coming up, including the Vintage Fair on
May 17 at
BACK IN TIME Members of the Chevaliers group
DOUBLE ACT Claire Barker and Alison Thornhill
Charlotte’s building a career in politics
by Lucy Stephens
AGED 25 and blazing a path in the traditionally male-dominated field of construction – the newest face in the local political scene says she just feels proud that voters have put their trust in her.
Cllr Charlotte Hill is Melbourne & Woodville ward’s newly elected county councillor after winning convincingly at the ballot box in the elections on May 1
Charlotte is one of a tide of Reform UK party members who reaped a stunning victory in English local elections this May, winning control of 10 councils, including Derbyshire
She said she was “very excited” after winning 1,508 votes in Melbourne & Woodville, with the Labour Party’s Andy Dawson coming second with 899
Over in Aston ward, Reform UK party member Cllr Alan Graves also won the seat, beating the Conservative candidate and previous ward incumbent Cllr Daniel Corbin into second place
Charlotte told Village Voice she was very happy to win, having put in a lot of work on the campaign trail
She felt having not come from a political background may have been what appealed to voters: “I think people want something they can relate to,” she said “They want change They trust us, their neighbours, to do a good job ”
Hartshorne resident Charlotte, a former beauty queen, was originally set on becoming an English teacher after completing her secondary studies at Ashby School
But while at Derby University she had a change of heart and switched her literature degree to one in construction management, following in the footsteps – and advice – of her father
Soon after graduating Charlotte was working as a site supervisor on the motorway
“My first job was on the M1,” she said “It’s nothing like driving on it when you’re standing on it and other people are still driving past you on the other side of the road!”
Now Charlotte is passionate about raising awareness of a career in construction, an area in which there is a severe skills
l Charlotte Hill with Reform leader Nigel Farage in Denby during the party’s Derbyshire campaign
shortage, and she is linked with the construction academy in Swadlincote
As for her aims as a councillor in Derbyshire, she hopes to bring her experience in construction to bear on local government
Reform UK’s intention is to closely examine council contracts to ensure work being paid for from the public purse is being efficiently carried out
She also aims to keep her community up to date with her work
Speaking of her win, she said: “I was proud that enough people trusted me to put a cross next to my box ”
Putting you in the picture
WANT to find out more about Melbourne Photographic Society? The group is delighted to announce a photographic print and rolling digital image show
The exhibition covers a whole range of different photographic genres including wildlife, landscape, architecture, sport and street photography and takes place at The Thomas Cook Memorial Hall on Saturday, May 24, between 10am and 12 30pm
Children have not been forgotten and the society has put on a fun introduction to photography with Polaroid cameras available for selfies or snaps or mum and dad, grandma and granddad or brothers and sisters to take away
Admission is free and refreshments are available for visitors to sit and relax and watch the digital show representing society members’ work
Stephen ALLEN, aka "Orange"
Passed away suddenly on ursday 22nd April, aged 61 years.
A
Cherished son to dad Graham and late mum Christine, beloved partner to Mandy, devoted father to children Jamie and Lucy, much-loved brother to Darran and Christopher, and cherished uncle to niece Maddie and nephew Jake.
PERMISSION to build two new dwellings on Trent Lane, Kings Newton, has been refused
The decision notice from South Derbyshire District Council states that the location was “outside the Limits to Development of the village of Kings Newton and would result in a devel-
opment in an unsustainable location”
The proposal was considered contrary to various policies set out in the Local Plan, the Neighbourhood Development Plan, and a paragraph of the National Planning Policy Framework
l Examples of Melbourne Photographic Society members’ work
FUN AT THE VILLAGE FETE
BANK holiday celebrations in Ticknall saw around 2,000 people flocking to the village green to enjoy all the fun of the fete
The May Day fete in the village has been a popular event for a few years and raises funds for Dame Catherine Harpur ’s School, whose supporters organise the day
This year ’s seasonal festivities included music from Repton Prep choir and brass band, as well as a young band, The Messarounds
Children were kept very happy with lots of stalls and rides as well as roarsome fun from The Lowe Ranger dino lady
Organisers said Ticknall residents had been very supportive of the fete, not only by many of them coming along but also by moving cars to ease traffic flow following council permission to cone off roads
The event was also well supported by
local pubs with The Staff of Life donating two gazebos and The Chequers having a pop-up pub
Local groups including Ticknall22 WI had stalls, and VE Day celebrations were included with Union Jack bunting and a stall for The British Legion
Event organisers have reported that, despite challenges faced by independent schools such as VAT on fees and the National Insurance increase, Dame Catherine Harpur ’s continues to grow with around 48 children either attending full or part-time
The school has grown so much that there is a waiting list for some sections and former pupils showed how much they valued their education by helping on the day Fund-raising is essential to help keep school fees low and support families who value the education provided
ROSEMARY NEWBURY
03/02/48 – 26/03/25
ROSE was the younger child to Eric and Dorothy Newbury, and lived and grew up in Melbourne She attended Melbourne School and started her working career in Castle Mills She then went to work for an estate agent in Derby, then as a receptionist in North Staffs, before travelling to USA, Ireland and Spain as an au pair
On returning home she met and married Brian Groom, which began a lifetime in the pub and hospitality trade, running the Crewe and Harpur at Swarkestone Then she was landlady at the Melbourne Arms, The Lamb, the New Inn in Shardlow and the Flying Horse in Kegworth After a spell in Sheffield she took on The Crown in Minchinhampton
Her good friend Jenny Williams said of her: “No one was loved more than Rose, She was unique, always a good friend to all, generous, thoughtful and always great fun ” She remembered first meeting her at The Crewe & Harpur: “She looked amazing, wearing that welcoming smile A vision that I have never forgotten ”
Peter said: “Over the years we had a lot of fun, we were good pals and had many trips together ” She loved to travel, and the overwhelming sense of Rose is of a person who loved life and lived it to the full She was patriotic, always stood for the national anthem, loved tradition, and celebrated every occasion, particularly St George s Day Church was also important to her both in Melbourne’s URC and when she was in the Cotswolds
Jenny said that every pub she took on she filled to the rafters, and at the Crown she turned it from a run-down pub to be the hub of the village There were many trips from Melbourne locals to visit her in the Cotswolds
Her brother, Peter, described her as both very kind and very funny – “larger than life with a big personality ” He recalled growing up with his sister, when she was known to have a bit of a temper, and he bears the scar of a bucket being thrown at his head on one occasion! He also recalled how, around the age of 18, he suddenly seemed to acquire many young men wanting to be his best friend He soon realised it was his sister they were really interested in and he became quite protective of her
She loved music from opera to pop and loved singing As Jenny said, “if Rose was around there would be a party, she loved life!”
After moving back to the Midlands she was asked by her good friend Harry Atwal to work at The Slice of India, where, once again, she worked her magic and the place filled up Rose became friends with so many customers and was both loved and respected by the staff
She also met Rod Deas and, as Peter said, “they happily bumbled along together ” Sadly, Rod became ill himself and Rose eventually needed a lot of care, expertly provided by Lovehands from Derby and Bluebell Nursing Home She bore her illness with smiles and laughter and even a few weeks before she died, she was found having a party with some ladies sitting around the bed drinking sherry and prosecco at 11 in the morning!
Peter wished to thank all those who supported Rose through very difficult times, and for those who helped in putting on both the funeral and the celebration of her life at the Sporting Partnership
There is no doubt Rose will be very sadly missed by many, but those who knew her will be grateful for the joy, fun and laugher she provided in life
Treetops and Marie Curie each received £597 from donations at the service for Rose
ABOVE LEFT: Maggie Zarattini and Katherine Wheatley from Bumblegreen Books. RIGHT: Maria with Monty and Luna enjoying the fete.
History of the history group
MELBOURNE Historical Research Group is celebrating its 25th anniversary and here PHILIP HEATH tells Village Voice how it began.
IN THE late 1990s, when I played the organ regularly at the United Reformed Church, Gordon Foddy would often come to the organ at the end of the service with some interesting newspaper cuttings, and ask “When are you going to set up some sort of history group in Melbourne?”
With the Millennium approaching, along with the offer of small grants for celebratory heritage projects, 2000 seemed as good a time as any to do it, and Gordon’s persistence at last paid off Interested parties were rounded up, and Melbourne Historical Research Group was formed
We thought of a motto: “MHRG: where the dead come to life” (borrowed from The Simpsons) but decided against it!
Some founder members, who were key local history researchers, are sadly no longer with us, particularly Howard and Lindsay Usher, Richard Heath, Roy Dunnicliffe, Richard Hatton and Gordon himself
The basic idea was to explore one subject area each year and exhibit the results around June, with further airings in reduced form at varied venues and events in Melbourne At first, I thought that concept might last about 10 years
Among our varied activities in the early years, we briefly reintroduced a working stocking frame to Blanch Croft for the first time in well over a century, and dug out the icehouse entrance at Melbourne Hall so that visitors could view the interior
We did geophysical work in the old cemetery at Castle Street to locate the remains of St Michael’s Church there, and organised rare public openings including the “Tithe Barn” (former malthouse), the Muniment Room at Melbourne Hall, and Robert Bakewell’s forge
Our exhibitions have included: the Melbourne “Slum Clearance” areas; Before the Reservoir;
Education; Health; Churches and Chapels; Pubs and Clubs; Property and Estate Sales down the ages; Melbourne during the War Years 1914-1918; Market Gardening; Historic Houses of Melbourne and Kings Newton; Shops and Shopping; Trades and Professions; Misdemeanours, Murders and Mayhem; Women; and People of Note and Notoriety
This year ’s exhibition offering, on June 14 and 15, 10am–5pm at Melbourne Assembly Rooms, is ‘Streets of Melbourne M-W’, following on from AM last year, and we are also currently involved with a re-brew of John Hair s beer after 71 years
Our publications have included: “Condemned!”
– a history of the Clearance Areas in Melbourne; “In Memoriam” about the men of Melbourne who died in the First World War; publication of the manuscript diary of J J Briggs 1820-75; “Schools Out”, being a history of the Secondary School; and “Melbourne’s Pubs Past and Present”
We also produced the popular interpretation panels placed on historic buildings around Melbourne for the Festival
We are lucky to now have an archive room at the Melbourne Assembly Rooms, and our recent focus and efforts have been heavily concentrated on that
For the first time, we are able to share our resources with visitors, currently on two Wednesdays a month, and invite them to bring items for copying or donation We also present an annual talk in November and have a popular Facebook page
If you wish to be a Friend, in order to support the work of the group, the annual cost is £6 per person
We always welcome new involvement, and can be contacted through our Facebook page, by calling us on 07904 245789, or by emailing us at melbournehrg@gmail com
6.00pm
ST George’s Day was marked in Melbourne with the putting up of flags by the parish council
Parish councillors Nigel Collyer, Andy Dawson and George Dunnicliffe put up the flags with the help of Oliver Boylan and Simon Smith, to mark the day celebrating England’s
l (l-r): Jean Grimley, Richard Heath, Howard Usher, Adrian Earp, John Wesson, Lindsay Usher, Roy Dunnicliffe, Philip Heath, Peter Taylor, Jo Carlier, Ruth Gordon, DCC officer and Gordon Foddy
REWARDS FOR DEDICATION
Tony’s ‘Excellence’ award
YEARS of dedication in helping Aston-on-Trent be a great place to live have seen local resident Tony Hurrell handed a top parish council award
Tony is the latest recipient of the Excellence in the Community Award given yearly in Aston in recognition of people who have gone above and beyond in services to the village
Having lived in the village for 25 years, Tony has dedicated much of his time to a whole range of community matters
Along with sitting on the parish council, he has had involvement with The Neighbourhood Watch, the local alms houses, the community trust, the bowls club, and is a trustee of Recreation in Aston, as well as helping to manage traffic at The Remembrance Parade
After receiving the award, Tony said: “I’ve always thought trying to get involved with things is important for the wider benefit of the village It’s something that I enjoy and if it enables people to be able to enjoy things then I’m happy to commit some time
“Aston is a great place to live There’s always lots going on and there’s also a number of people who get involved in volunteering to make the village a better place
“It’s always nice that other people seem to think you’re doing the right thing but I’m conscious that I’m
just one of a number of people in the village who keep these things going ”
Other nominees for Excellence in the Community this year were Alison Wheeler, put forward for her long time support of the All Saints’ Heritage Centre, running the 200 club for 14 years The club has raised over £90,000, most of which has gone to All Saints Church, the rest having been paid out in prize money
Jane Archer was nominated for her service to the community, especially for her efforts for the Poppy Appeal Since 2011 she has been the collecting organiser for Aston, Weston, Shardlow, Swarkestone, Elvaston, Thulston and Ambaston with more than £67,000 raised in the area during that time – much of which Jane counted by hand!
Another nominee was Debbie Hoddinott for her outstanding work with the Memorial Hall Committee Debbie is also treasurer for Recreation in Aston, manages the Pre-School, is a helper at cubs and scouts, is treasurer for the brownies and helps with any local event where she can
Ken Adams was nominated for his commitment to the village over the years, including founding the Village Walk which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary Ken started the Medieval Market, and the Hoover Group – which still collects rubbish today He was also a founder member and regular contributor of the History Group, SAVE, and the Brickyard Plantation restoration, now FAB
VILLAGE VOICE Postbag
MANY of your readers will be aware of the huge and unprecedented pressure that our natural world is under The evidence is all around us and the situation continues to worsen year on year
In the UK song bird populations and insect populations are in free fall so that we are now one of the most nature depleted countries in the world
Regrettably against this dire background the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, now in its committee stage, is set to do immense damage to our natural world
In its unamended form it cancels out at a stroke the wildlife and habitat protections of all previous legislation if a developer wants to build housing
In essence, unless it is altered it will be possible to destroy an important and previously protected habitat, eg a rare chalk stream, a rare heathland or ancient woodland or a population of a previously protected species by the developer
Freedom of parish honour for Rebecca
Martin Nicholson was also put forward for his good work in the village, especially the delivery of the handrail at the steps at the rear of the church, as well as keeping the church clock telling the right time Martin is also tower captain of the bells at All Saints’ Church
Judges were Samantha Perry, who received this award last year, along with Cllrs Sharon Bowler, Tom Green and Aston-on-Trent Parish Council chair Cllr Edward Hicklin
A CARING friend, volunteer and all-round community stalwart has been given the very first Freedom of the Parish Award for decades of neighbourliness in Elvaston
Rebecca Russell was presented with the award at a meeting of the parish held at Elvaston Village Hall
It is the first time Elvaston Parish Council has ever bestowed this honour, the very highest available at this level of local government
Parish council vice-chair Cllr Toby Mansfield told the room of Rebecca’s many years of service in all kinds of ways within the parish that has led to her being given the honour
Since 1976 Rebecca’s services to Elvaston have included serving as a parish councillor, helping locals with dog walking, per-
l Tony Hurrell receives his award from Aston on Trent Parish Council chairman Cllr Edward Hicklin
paying a ‘Nature Restoration Levy’
Once this is paid the impact of the destruction can be ignored, with the Secretary of State merely needing to believe that the levy is likely one day to create a habitat such that the immediate damage/destruction can be outweighed
Clearly the creation of a ‘new' ancient woodland or a ‘new' chalk stream is highly unlikely if not impossible to be ever achieved
The wildlife trusts and various flora and fauna associated societies have reacted with horror at this outrage and are lobbying hard for the bill to be amended
It would be a great help if people would, as a matter of urgency, write to their MP protesting at this destructive legislation and perhaps remind him/her that there are alleged to be 800,000 unoccupied dwellings in the country before we rush headlong into any more destruction of nature
Christian Murray-Leslie
forming a key role in the installation of local defibrillators, being a member of the village hall committee, volunteering at Elvaston Castle and helping out in many other ways
Handing her the honour, Cllr Mansfield paid tribute to Rebecca’s “completely selfless” demeanour and her ready smile
“There’s nothing else we can ask of any parishioner than that,” he said
Cllr Mansfield said the parish council had decided the awarding of an honorary freedom had been “long overdue” and was a good way of recognising local people for their good work in the community Rebecca, modestly receiving the honour, said she had very much enjoyed living in Elvaston parish and would never want to move anywhere else
l Rebecca Russell receiving the very first Honorary Freedom of the Parish Award from Cllr Toby Mansfield.
MADE FOR WALKING
MELBOURNE man Andy Younger is raising money to help families create memories – one step at a time
Andy, 68, has taken on the huge challenge of the 630-mile South West Coast Path in aid of the me&dee charity
The local dad started out on his epic trek on April 10 and is aiming to complete the whole route within eight weeks, helped by partner Jill, who is providing back-up in the couple’s camper van, sourcing places to stay as they go
Keen walker Andy said he had taken on other long walks in the past including the Pennine and Cleveland Ways
But the rugged and beautiful South West Coast Path is his biggest challenge yet; he decided with his own retirement and that of his partner it was time to take it on
He is raising money for me&dee after visiting the charity’s offices in Melbourne and seeing its valuable work first hand
The charity creates memories where a potentially lifelimiting diagnosis has meant families are facing short or uncertain futures together
Run by founder and CEO
Maria Hanson MBE, it works in a variety of settings to help families through days out and other special experiences
Andy said the walk – made famous by Raynor Winn’s book, The Salt Path – was proving to be “mind blowing”
But at the time of writing Andy had no blisters and was enjoying the challenge for a worthwhile cause
“I think me&dee does a marvellous job,” he said “I’m doing this walk not only for myself but also for those who can t, who never get the chance ”
“Every corner I turn, there’s another stunning view – it’s amazing!” he said
“Some days are harder than others, there’s a lot of climbing!”
Maria said she was “absolutely blown away” by the extent of Andy’s challenge for me&dee
She said: “While we so desperately need funds to carry on with the work that we do, it is never all about the money No one would choose a charity for such a huge challenge without believing in the charity and the work that they do Creating memories for families facing short and uncertain futures cannot happen without such support ”
Andy’s proud daughter Rachel said: “I’m so incredibly proud of my dad not just for taking on such a huge personal challenge, but for doing it with others in mind This walk isn’t just for him, it’s for everyone else too That’s the kind of person he is someone who lifts others up None of us become who we are without the kindness and support of the people we meet along the way ”
Andy has so far raised more than £1,000 for me&dee
To donate, see https://shorturl at/ZpDHa or search for ‘Andy Younger me&dee’ to find the Just Giving link l Andy is pictured (above) taking a well-desrved rest and refreshment
REVEALING A CHURCH’S SECRETS
ANYONE interested in learning more about the surprising and secret history of St Mary’s Church in Weston-onTrent is invited to find out more at the church’s first main fund-raiser of the year
The free talk is being given at the church by local history enthusiast Dr Jill Scarfe on Saturday, June 7, from 2-4pm
The Common Touch...
STRANGE times we’re in currently, where we are celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE day but the world seems to be filled with war or tensions between countries and peoples within countries
Humans seek certainty and this can lead people to believe things that are quite obviously untrue believing people and politicians whose main aim is to create confusion Scientists spend their lives trying to research phenomenon to seek the truth and they can be treated as untrusted sources for some as they report their findings This creates an atmosphere where people don’t know who to trust which leads to apathy and individualism and people abandoning hope
These purveyors of climate change untruths must be challenged They do not have our best interests at heart We can see that the climate is changing, we can see that nature is under threat, that the natural systems we rely on for our lives is changing
One of Whistlewood s educational aims is about raising awareness of climate change and what practical and attitudinal changes that we need to
make to mitigate climate change These might seem small changes and relate to personal choices or family choices, but the focus of bringing the world temperatures down or trying to not go over 1 5 degrees above preindustrial levels is something that needs to be done at all levels of society Personal, local, national and international efforts are all important, obviously the results will be proportional to each As people we are part of nations and our voices will be louder together and Whistlewood seeks to create a community which can speak out louder than our individual voices We started as a Transition Town initiative and one of the drivers for that movement is we can’t leave these important issues to politicians, so we just have to
Those who go along will learn about the fascinating history of the local Sale family, and the influence they had on the villages of the Trent valley
Dr Scarfe – contributor to extensive research about the Sale family, its history and its connections to St Mary’s –will explain the stories around the unique monuments in the church that are dedicated to the Sales, a noteworthy local family with significant religious pedigree, and lineage traceable to the Royal families of Europe
Mastering Melbourne
I WAS commenting to husband TAS last month that the lawn could do with a mow
Our lawn is half the size of our last garden and, to be honest, not the biggest feature in this one Yes, I could do it myself, but he likes to tend the lawn and I now know why it hasn’t seen the mower since last year
TAS has been extremely busy volunteering at Whistlewood Common these last few weeks He has been building ‘stuff ’ , staining and has discovered they have a ride-on mower for looking after their meadows
Now, we’ve never had one of those gardens that calls for a ride-on, yet TAS has always yearned for one, so you can imagine his joy at discovering this Now that the nights are lighter, I’ve become a ride-on-mower-widow
I’ll be amazed if there is any grass left up there next time I visit!
I’ve also noticed my secateurs keep mysteriously disappearing This has all to do with the Melbourne Footpaths Group (MFG) which Tom enjoyed working with before spring sprung, and the birdlife and greenery began to multiply
They were kindly chopping the brambles and wayward greenery that was blocking many of the local-and-beyond paths
It is a thoughtful and good job done by all the volunteers I was up in Rochdale a few weeks
Members of the Parish Council
Chairman Andy Dawson 07811 586049
Vice Chairman
Collyer 07831 540538
&
Dawson 07811 586049
Dave Calvert
Jane Carroll 01332 863269
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
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
ago and took myself off for a run I turned right into the first footpath I found signposted and had to go even more slowly than I was already: it was like a scene from Rapunzel’s forest Where was TAS with my secateurs when I needed him?
It did wonders for my leg muscles, all those high lifts over the brambles, but I reckon Rochdale could do with a community footpath group like ours!
We have been on a couple of the MFG guided walks; the first was around the perimeter of the airport, much to my excitement There was a consensus that most people on the walk saw more planes overhead in their back gardens, than we saw while walking the perimeter – but that said, we all enjoyed it
There was also an art trail which had some interesting exhibits, and it was good to have different views of the local landscape
And then we were back at the pub near where we had parked I was not complaining
More recently we had a circular walk around Shardlow which was about 5 5 miles, over various bridges, through Church Wilne and Great Wilne
There were many new faces and names to remember; it is a super way to become acquainted with the area and the friendly community within
We saw herons, swans, cows and even a lost lamb that the team managed to reunite with the mother Hav-
ing taken in views of the River Trent, Derwent and the Trent and Mersey Canal it was once again a much-needed watering hole we found, close to the car park Would you believe it?
With TAS and I becoming members of the Civic Society and having attended some interesting talks, I was delighted to be able to give back a little by helping at their spring litter pick Unfortunately, TAS wasn’t able to attend this time, despite having done a sterling job back in October
Our meeting point was the Assembly Rooms, where I was met by other members and handed a hooped bag and litter picker I was impressed with the organisation and spotted a group of roads I was familiar with on their list, so opted for that as my picking area
I learnt a good deal that Saturday I now know where plenty of the shredded paper ends up after a windy binday and where hair elastics (in their droves) go to die
I used to be annoyed at the amount my girls lost around the house when they lived at home – it turns out it wasn’t their fault Whatever the opposite of a ‘homing instinct’ is, these bands have it Be warned
It was also lovely to be told by various members of the community that the Civic Society was doing an excellent job with this task
I was befriended by a young child looking out from her doorstep who was interested to see what I was doing She
Melbourne Parish Council
Chairman’s Report - May 2025
First order of business at our May meeting is to elect the Parish Council Chairman for the coming year. After the disappointment of my failed bid to be a County Councillor, my spirits have been lifted by my election as Chairman of Melbourne Parish Council. I am honoured to be given this opportunity to lead your council to continue to improve the facilities and services in Melbourne and Kings Newton.
The council has also elected Nigel Collyer as Vice Chairman and I’m very much looking forward to working with him. In the table on the left, you will see blank spaces beneath the committees for Facilities & Events, Highways & Environment, and Planning. At the time of Village Voice going to print, the Chairmen of these committees have not yet been decided.
It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the outstanding contribution made over the past year by our previous Chairman, Joe Ward; much was achieved under Joe’s stewardship for which we are all grateful.
Our May Planning Committee meeting was very well attended by members of the public, with the focus of attention on two items; rstly, an application to fell the Manor Oak tree on Sleepy Lane in Kings Newton. A robust discussion from both sides on an emotive subject and a planning decision that will need careful and detailed review. The Parish Council Planning Committee agreed to record their objection to the proposed felling of this tree. The second contentious item was the Outline Planning Application for up to 135 dwellings on land to the south of Kings Newton Lane. The Parish Council will also register their objection to this.
The coming 12 months will see the Parish Council engaged on a wide variety of projects, ranging from the refurbishment of the Chapels in the Cemetery on Packhorse Road, a plan of works to improve the street scene in the Market Place, progress-chasing National Grid to restore the Hilly Fields footpath to an acceptable and safe state and continuing to apply pressure on the District and County Councils, to ful l their obligations regarding the quality of our highways and provision of parking spaces. Onwards and upwards!
Best regards, Andy Dawson Chairman, Melbourne Parish Council
then offered me a drink, which, had I not just started the task, I would have gladly taken her up on
Four miles later, in the hot sunshine
I almost went and re-cleaned her road just to see if the offer still stood!
The next day the roads around Melbourne looked better for their tidy-up
And my step count certainly did I was also relieved to tell TAS when he was back later that day that I hadn’t collected as many bags as he had done in October – because we all know the Arsenal fans do not like to be beaten
He was in a jovial disposition after their win in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, which means while he is taking the Flymo over our lawn this weekend he can dream about their chances in the semi’s and his chances of owning a ride-on-mower
The latter being two – both slim and fat
School tots up second award
THE head of Aston-on-Trent Primary School has voiced his pride after winning a Lots for Tots award for the second year running The village school was named best Primary Age Education Provider at the awards ceremony on April 5 Scallywags Nursery in Melbourne and Chellaston was another local winner,
carrying off the best Preschool Education Provider award
Sam Moore (pictured), head teacher of Aston-on-Trent Primary School, said: “The award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire school community –teachers, staff, students, and families alike It celebrates our commitment to academic excellence and recognises the supportive and inclusive environment that we foster at Aston-on-Trent ”
Trevor Langley gives us a taste of what ’s on offer in our local restaurants
CHILWELL, where I located multi award-winning Haveli Fine Dining Indian Restaurant, is in the borough of Broxtowe, Nottinghamshire Haveli Fine Dining (established in 2011) has been, from July 2023, in new ownership, management with a new menu Haveli is very impressive, with pristine table settings and on-site parking
To commence my meal here I favoured a pickle and chutney tray, plus poppadoms, followed by a starter of Tandoori King Prawns Flavours for the taste buds and presentation made the dining introductions (really) perfect
For mains I chose Haveli Special Thali (butter chicken, Haveli lamb, Cod Bhuna, Bombay Aloo, Chicken Tikka, Pilau Rice, Naan, Poppadams, Pickles, Salad, Gulab Jamun), from a most excellent list of menu choices Aromas, along with the mouth s pleasures, brought me to send ‘Compliments to Chef The complementing flavours, succulence and tenderness of this whole array made the enjoyment hugely delightful This Thali (feast on a plate) is available on
Haveli Fine Dining, 10 Attenborough Lane, Chilwell, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 5JW
Sundays, but can be arranged for other dining days too
Other very popular dishes include meats, fish, seafood and vegetable selections
Head Chef is Dimpal Dimpal and the team ensure the delights for all diners
A great selection of quality wines, drinks, including cocktails, are available and also gift vouchers – perhaps a surprise for someone special Collections and deliveries are
also available Parties, celebrations and corporate events are easily and regularly accommodated Themed dining occasions prove extremely popular, with live music
Booking is very much advised for popular times and dates Outside catering is available too Thank you to Rav, Jay and Rana for exemplary service throughout Highly recommended
by Naomi Duffree
DOWN ON THE FARM
With Ben Stanley
DADDY, what is your favourite colour?
It’s my daughter Iona’s favourite question, as she pulls yet another brightly coloured pencil out of her pencil case, colouring in another flamboyant flying unicorn, with a rainbow mane and golden hooves
My answer is always the same: Navy blue She carries on her colouring regardless of my answer and I know why she is asking me; it’s so she can begin a well rehearsed speech talking about all the different colours she loves, and that this week her new favourite colour has changed to some new variation of purple that can probably only be found on a Farrow and Ball paint chart
I have always answered navy blue But I have no idea why because I don’t think it is my favourite colour after all; it isn’t right now anyway, it has been overwhelmed by the incredible colour green
We live an incredible country, a fertile and beautiful land and as spring bursts out of its long winter slumber the colour green suddenly overwhelms the landscape From the deep dark greens of the winter wheat, clover and ryegrass on the ground to the sudden green fireworks bursting from, horse chestnut, hawthorn, lime, beech, oak and even the poor old ash are doing their best to open their arms to the warmth and comfort of spring
Spring is here and as I chug around the farm on my little buggy checking
the cattle every morning, I would be nowhere else in the world We live in Babylon All those winter months trudging around a filthy farmyard, the slog, the muck, the wet, wondering why on God’s good earth ‘I do what I do’ and didn’t go for an easy life and become a Land Agent, all forgotten in one week; the grand opening of spring
I am now utterly drunk on the seductiveness of the colour green and, as the risk of frost diminishes, you can literally see the grass grow and every bite of that dark green grass is full of energy and sugar that makes young life grow and flourish
I switch off the engine and take time to allow our pastoral landscape to recharge my soul, listening to the crunch, crunch of that sweet grass being consumed around me as the first of the swallows weave and dive amongst the cattle and young hares box and kick high into the air on the horizon
A horizon silhouetted by Melbourne and its magnificent church with its St George’s flag fluttering in the breeze
This is England, our England, our green and pleasant land in all its pomp and splendour, a landscape worth fighting for, worth dying for Eighty years ago, at the start of May, the church bells rang and the dying in Europe stopped, our forebears had given everything and defeated the darkness of tyranny so that we could thrive and succeed on this wonderful green Isle
My family have been farming in the area for generations, my great grandfather Herbert, who farmed at Common Farm, Melbourne, was a member of the Derbyshire Agricultural Executive Committee during the 1914-18 war and my grandfather Bill followed in his footsteps during the Second Word War Farmers had an important role to play on an island at war surrounded by U boats and encircled by the Luftwaffe
Bill wrote a book of his life on his old fashioned typewriter before he died and it provides a fascinating insight into the life of a war time farmer He explains candidly how the whole pattern of life changed upon the outbreak of war: the direct threat of stick bombs being dropped on the farm by German bombers lost in the night, an American fighter plane tragically losing power and nosediving into one of his fields and how he desperately tried to save the pilot
Farmers who remained on their farms were recruited to the Home Guard and my grandfather and many of his farm workers joined amongst an imminent threat of invasion You get the impression, however, that ‘Dad’s Army’ was a pretty accurate depiction of the Home Guard
One night he describes how during an inspection of the Guard one evening at a house, arms were presented As the platoon stood to ‘ease one of the rifles was dropped, it fired and the bullet passed straight through the ceiling and between the husband and wife sleeping
THAT’S ALLOTMENT BETTER
CONTRACTORS working in the area have been using their skills help Melbourne allotment holders
A team from civil engineers CPC Civils, who are working for Severn Trent in Melbourne, Breedon and Ticknall, gave time, labour and materials to resurface the well-worn path leading to Blackwell Lane allotments
The company reached out to Paul Fox, chairman of the allotments, after noticing the driveway could benefit from some repair
Paul said: “They had noticed our driveway was a bit like The Somme! It had massive potholes It was very dangerous to drive down ” As part of its community outreach work, a team from CPC Civils resurfaced the path using recycled stone from haul roads previously laid to give access to farmers’ fields as part of Severn Trent’s current works
Volunteers from CPC Civils’ Breedon and Melbourne sites spent seven hours resurfacing the track, using two excavators, two dumpers, a roller plus a traffic marshal and supervisor, giving the allotment track a new lease of life at no cost to holders
in the bedroom above
He describes how the advancement of farming progressed rapidly following the outbreak of war in 1939
The Government threw the gauntlet down to feed the nation, to waste nothing, and his early farming career was energised with the clarity of purpose and the continuous drive for productivity
With so many men away fighting he describes the desperate shortage of farm labour and how huge gangs of prisoners of war were drafted in to help, praising the triumph of 100 hard working German prisoners who helped him lift a record one million cabbages in a day He broke milk production records and won the ‘Victory Milk Churn Contest’ in 1944-45, ploughed out old pastures for corn production, he answered the country’s call
Reading his accounts of the war 80 years ago, I am envious of my grandfather to have lived at a time when the importance of farming was so celebrated, when we were so needed Today our government policy towards farming is utterly confused and our farmers are downhearted
We are now a country that imports half our food, throws away 10 million tonnes of food a year; and in a recent poll half of all Britons said that under no circumstances would they ever be willing to take up arms for this country
I think Bill would be astonished, how have we let our beautiful green isle become so vulnerable
THOUSANDS of residents and commuters have faced delays tafter a road connecting two villages is being shut for eight weeks
Essential works by Cadent Gas have meant the road between Aston and Weston-onTrent has been closed in both directions since April 28
Traffic lights were installed at Cuttle Bridge on the A514 which, on some days, have caused traffic to back up as far as Melbourne and on the A50 Buses travelling to and from Chellaston Academy have had to be re-routed because of the works
Richard Sansom, Network Director for Cadent in the East Midlands, said gas pipes in Weston and Aston were being reinforced
He said these were essential works to keep gas flowing and would help the provider keep residents “safe and warm, especially throughout the winter months”
Cadent is expecting to take eight weeks to complete the works and will be returning in the coming months to carry out further essential works
In Melbourne, roads have also been shut while Cadent carries out essential works
WESTON DECORATORS LTD.
What’s On
Wednesday 28 May:
Creative Melbourne Gallery Free Creative Workshop for Children with Mig Holder. 1.00pm - 3.00pm.
Prentice, Cynthia Twiss, seabird sculptures by Jane Gibson, glass by Stevie Davies & ceramics from Leanne Ball & Jane Clowes. Creative Melbourne Gallery, Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne DE73 8EJ Open Wednseday - Saturday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 15 May:
Creative Melbourne Gallery Workshop
Wire & Paper Flower Making Crafternoon
Join artist Lise Bennett for an afternoon of crafting and conversation making wire and paper flowers to take home and decorate your home. 1-3pm. All materials provided. Free - To book: 07962 430450
The Lounge, Melbourne Assembly Rooms, High St. DE73 8GJ
Saturday 17 May:
Joint Melbourne Town Band Concert and Training Band Concert
Royal British Legion, 3pm. All welcome. Tickets £2 on the door.
Saturday 17 May:
Coffee Morning
United Reformed Church Hall, High Street. 10am - noon.
Saturday 17 May:
Vintage and Handmade Fayre
Melbourne Parish Church, 11am-3pm. Enjoy a traditional vintage and handmade fayre with live entertainment and a pop-up cafe.
Free admission.
Saturday 17 May:
Whistlewood Common
Stained Glass Butterflies and Moths
Using the 'Tiffany method' you will create beautiful glass butterflies and moths using glass selection, cutting, copper foiling and soldering techniques. An all day workshop - £75 (concessionary places at £37). www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop
Sunday 18 May:
Whistlewood Common Nutrition 101
The Essentials of Healthy Eating
Join Lucy in a deep dive into the foundations of good nutrition, so you can feel confident in your food choices and nourish your body properly. Have fun Making Energy Balls too! 1.00 - 3.30 - £40 (with concessionary places at £20) www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop
Monday 19 May:
Melbourne Civic Society "Napoleonic War Influences on South Derbyshire and Burton"
Talk by Ian Bottrill. Wesley Hall, 7pm.
Everyone welcome; members £2; visitors £3; inc. refreshments
Fri 23, Sat 24, Sun 25 & Mon 26 May:
Creative Melbourne Gallery
Derbyshire Open Arts
Hosting Sujata Aten, Sue Gardner, Michelle Holmes, Amanda Hughes, Fi Marks, Sue Olumide, Lucy Ormsby, Christine Pearson, Kate Westwood & Cheryl Wilbraham.
Creative Melbourne Gallery, Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne DE73 8EJ Open 10am - 5pm.
Saturday 24 May:
Melbourne Photographic Society
Photography Exhibition
Exhibition of Photographic prints and rolling digital show. Featuring an exciting range of images including wildlife, landscape, architecture, street and sport. For children - a fun introduction to photography! Polaroid cameras will be available for ‘selfies’ or snaps.
Thomas Cook Memorial Hall, High Street. 10.00am - 12.30pm. Free admission. Refreshments available.
Sat 24, Sun 25 & Mon 26 May: Derbyshire Open Arts 2025
With Watercolour Artist, Celia Brookes
Open Hours 10am-5pm, FREE ADMISSION at The Laurels, Derby Road, Melbourne, DE73 8DE Tea, Coffee & Cakes on sale, of which ALL proceeds will go to supporting individuals with learning disabilities.
Saturday 24 May:
Coffee Morning
Catholic Church, St Mary's Hall, Church Street. 10am - noon. East Midlands Ambulance Service are giving a CPR and defibrillator demonstration. FREE ENTRY
Saturday 24 - Monday 26 May:
Community Flower Festival for Melbourne 900th Anniversary
Melbourne Parish Church, 10am-5pm. Come and see stunning displays and flower arrangements and enjoy free crafts, music and movement (Saturday 2-4pm) and Bellringing (Monday 2.15pm). Free admission.
Tuesday 27 May:
Melbourne Community Care Memory Cafe
Melbourne Assembly Rooms 1.30pm-3.30pm. For people with dementia & their families & carers or experiencing memory loss.
For children and young people aged 9+. Come along to Creative Melbourne Gallery in your half-term holiday and have a go at making a purse or a badge by stitching and embellishing.
Wednesday 2 June - Saturday 19 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.
Sunday 1 June:
Milton Open Gardens 2025
Tombola, plants for sale, live music, refreshments, free parking. 1pm to 5pm. £5 adults: accompanied under 16s free. Sorry no dogs. Cash only. Tickets on the day next to car park. Profits go to local charities.
Tuesday 3 June:
Melbourne Community Care
Coffee & Company
Melbourne Assembly Rooms, 2 - 4pm.
Thursday 5 June:
Melbourne Area Derby u3a AGM plus guest speaker. All welcome. Melbourne Royal British Legion. 2pm. melbourne-area.u3asite.uk
Saturday 7 June:
Coffee Morning
Methodist Church Wesley Hall, Potter Street. 10am - noon.
Saturday 14 June:
Coffee Morning
Baptist Church Schoolroom, Chapel Street. 10am - noon.
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. See advert on P9
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
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 2 August:
Creative Melbourne Gallery
Raku ‘Art & Alchemy’ Workshop with Andrew Mason. £65 per person. 1.00 - 6.00pm.
Come and enjoy the Japanese art of Raku at Creative Melbourne Gallery. Book at the Gallery 10am - 4pm Wed to Sat or call 07765 819428
Every Tuesday:
Melbourne Community Care
Bereavement Group
Melbourne Assembly Rooms 10am -12pm Friendly group for anyone affected by a bereavement.
We are happy to include events in this listing free of charge, but the Village Voice costs money to produce every month. If your organisation has found this listing helpful, please consider contributing to enable us to continue producing YOUR local newspaper.
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WINNING START FOR MELBOURNE CRICKETERS
MELBOURNE Town Cricket Club has started the 2025 season in great form continuing on from a very buoyant off season which saw the club complete the new nets project at the MSP.
The first team have led the way by winning both of their Division 5 South matches. They began away to Allestree firsts and, bowling first, a quite stunning debut from Dadurrahman Ghani saw him take a remarkable 6-31. The hosts scored 176 all out and in reply 73 not out by opener Ash Elwell led them to a comfortable victory by five wickets with over 14 overs to go.
At home to Elvaston 2nds Town again bowled first and it was that man Ghani who took 4-32 supported by Sam Raven with 4-44 to bowl the visitors out for just 137.
In reply the first team were wobbling, but a stand of 78 between skipper Alex Slater (41) and Sharaz Ahmad (27
not out) saw Melbourne home by six wickets with a huge 23 overs left to leave the first team with a 100% start to the season.
The club’s second team began their Division 7 South campaign at home to Breadsall 2nds and were led by a superb spell of 5-26 by Ranjit Rathore aided by 2-29 from Gurwinder Singh. The visitors were bowled out for just 157, which was a recovery as they had been 100-9. This proved crucial as none of the Melbourne side scored more than 26. Despite being 140-7 they lost their last three wickets for just four runs to fall to a 13-run defeat.
John Collins’ men did fare a little better a week later as they scored 253-6 batting first away to Victory first team. Bali Chohan smashed a quick-fire 98 alongside Matt Nicholson, who ended up 58 not out.
Another three wickets for Rathore (3-35) plus two
apiece for Chohan and Oscar Jones looked to take Town to victory but the hosts shut up shop to finish on 186-8, leaving the seconds to take away a winning draw.
The third team have played just the one game so far but it was a cracker.
They travelled to Dunstall 4ths who scored a competitive 223-6 from their allotted overs with two wickets each for youngsters Ed Jones and Jethro Holden being the pick of the bowlers.
A steady start from skipper Liam Lander-sung (31) laid the foundations for Matt Nicholson to smash 84 in a stand of 127 with Mark Gregory (27 not out) to take the thirds home by four wickets with just nine balls left.
Another mention for Ed Jones, who showed no nerves in hitting the only two balls he faced for a six and a four to finish the game.
RUGBY CLUB’S FUTURE LOOKING VERY BRIGHT
IT HAS been a fantastic season of bone-rattling tackles, blistering pace, and bold ambition for Melbourne RFC – and boy, did the 1st XV deliver the goods, writes Matt Derbyshire
For the second year on the bounce, they secured and hoisted the coveted NLD Cup high above their heads, conquering the opposition with rugby flair that turns heads and breaks hearts
But that’s not all; the lads didn’t just show up for the cup, they came to play week in, week out With a squad of young talent averaging 22 years old the South Derbyshire club has so much talent and promise Wrapping up the Regional 2 North Midlands league in a hard-earned third place, they racked up a thunderous 84 points over 25 matches and a personal best for the club with that finish and points tally
Back to back NLD Champions? You bet
Their 41–16 demolition of Newark at the end of April was a great spectacle and show of how far the club has come – Melbourne were in full flow, firing on all cylinders
Over the season, the 1st XV chalked up a whopping 19 wins and only four losses, with a red-hot eight-game winning streak from late November to mid-February
The final game of the season served up a gut-punch – a 27–28 nail-biter against Ilkeston that left fans staring into the abyss of “what could’ve been” Two disallowed tries and a last gasp, last second score by Ilkeston stole the game and broke hearts but it
Meanwhile, history stirred as Melbourne RFC proudly relaunched their women’s team, who burst onto the scene in October and played their first match in February against Paviors
Since then, they’ve been tearing it up at Inner Warrior Festivals and are charging toward the RFU’s league structure come September 2025 Watch this space – the future’s fierce for these ladies Interested? Then go along on a Thursday for summer fun activities and team bonding Ladies and girls of any age are welcome
The men’s 2nd XV weren’t just making up the numbers either Finishing fifth in the league, they closed out their season in style with wins over Nottinghamians, Castle Donington, and Mellish 2s – a trio of triumphs that had the touchline faithful roaring
And let’s hear it for the future stars – the U16s finished strongly with three wins in March, capping it off by absolutely torching Sleaford 72-16 If that’s not a statement of intent, we don’t know what is
As we set our sights on 2025–26, one thing’s for sure: Melbourne RFC is building something special With grit, guts, and a fair bit of glory, all roads lead to another year of big hits, big scores, and even bigger dreams Let’s dream together Interested in rugby? Get in touch with Matt, Melbourne’s Director of Rugby
does not dull the shine of a standout campaign
Amanda Taylor presents the NLD Cup to Melbourne captain Tom Warren PHOTO: Peter Ilott