Melbourne Village Voice November 2025

‘THANKS FOR GIVING ME BACK MY LIFE’

by Lucy Stephens

A FORMER Melbourne Rugby Club player has raised thousands of pounds to help the emergency department which brought him back to life after his heart stopped for eight minutes

Dale Bilson, a fit man who played rugby for Melbourne for many years, said that if it had not been for the doctors in Royal Derby Hospital’s A&E department – along with his wife Sophie – he would not have survived the heart attack he suffered last year aged just 37

Now Dale, Sophie plus friends and supporters have raised more than £4,500 for the hard-working hospital department

He said it was hard to put into words how much their actions in sav-

ing his life so that he could carry on being a husband to Sophie and dad to small daughter Margot meant to him

Dale was attending a gym class when he began to feel unwell, experiencing severe pain in his chest Sophie, who was also at the class, quickly realised something was wrong, armed with the knowledge that Dale’s dad had suffered a heart

attack in his 40s She drove the pair to hospital where Dale went into cardiac arrest in the waiting room

Luckily for Dale a nearby doctor recognised his unusual symptoms –a kind of snoring breathing – and he was quickly put on a stretcher and wheeled away for treatment

Doctors feared the worst when Continued on Page 3 l Dale is pictured left in hospital and (above)

Comedy back at the MSP

MELBOURNE Festival Funhouse Comedy Club returns to Melbourne Sporting Partnership, on Friday, November 21, for a laughter-packed night

Topping the bill is the intelligent, controversially witty, hip and silly Markus Birdman, who got to the semis of last year ’s ‘Britain’s Got Talent Regarded by many in the know as one of the best circuit acts in the country, he has toured internationally and had highly acclaimed shows at the Edinburgh Festival His dandyish onstage confidence, versatility and infectious nature result in a truly absorbing performance

Opening the night will be winner of the highly prestigious British Comedian of the Year, the self-assured Alistair Williams Smart, passionate, impressively quick witted and bursting with confidence, he tackles any subject matter with amusing results

Completing the line-up is Pam Ford, a real force of nature, full of Aussie charm and hilarious gossip

Compere for the night will be the quick-witted and likeable Paul Revill

All proceeds go to supporting Melbourne Festival

Bringing Christmas joy to poorly children

THE spirit of Christmas has come already in Melbourne in an appeal to help a local charity give smiles to poorly children this festive season

Award-winning Q Branch Business Transformation has joined forces with Melbourne Print which is organising a Christmas present appeal to help the me&dee charity turn Santa for poorly children whose lives are spent in and out of hospital

The community is being invited to contribute Christmas gifts which will be distributed by me&dee’s volunteers to children in Burton Hospital Children’s Ward and those receiving care from the Community Children’s Nursing Team, who provide nursing care and support to children with healthcare needs Many of them have palliative conditions, including those needing end of life care

Melbourne-based me&dee, founded by Maria Hanson MBE, provides memory-making experiences for thousands of families where a life-limiting condition has been diagnosed

Every year the charity organises a present drive in addition to its continuing care programme, which this year will see more than 200 people dealing with serious medical issues within the family taken for inclusive days out including to the NEC Winter Funland

The charity’s volunteers take care to provide presents that are age appropriate and suitable for hospital life

The present drive is calling for local businesses to contribute gifts to provide Christmas joy to children who are going through some of the toughest times imaginable

These include everything from baby toys such as teethers, beanies, cuddly toys and books to gifts for teenagers such as gift cards, LCD drawing tablets, pens, pencils, blankets and fluffy socks ‘Free from’ chocolate is also especially appreciated

Yvonne Woolley, Family Support Worker from the Community Children’s Nursing Team, which is part of the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT), said Christmas gifts provided to children by me&dee had been very gratefully received in the past

“Some of the children we look after are non-verbal and a lot have

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complex needs,” she said “Just to see their eyes light up when you go and deliver presents, it’s beautiful ”

Ian Smith, business development manager at Melbourne Print, said: “The idea for this campaign came after attending the recent me&dee Ruby Ball; it was impossible not to see the difference they make for families facing the toughest circumstances As a dad to an 18-month-old boy, I kept thinking about what those parents and children must be facing, especially at Christmas

“I spoke with Matt and Jenny at Q Branch about joining forces, and they immediately wanted to help It’s grown from a simple idea into something that we hope will bring real comfort to families who need it most ”

Melbourne Print owner Paul Wilson said: “We’ve worked with me&dee for several years and have seen first-hand the compassion and dedication that Maria and her team put into everything they do When Ian suggested the idea for this campaign, it felt like a perfect way for us to give something back Our business has always been rooted in the local community, and this appeal gives us all a chance to do something that truly matters

“Every donation, no matter how small, will bring a bit of comfort and joy to children and families who deserve to feel cared for this Christmas ”

Matt Clutterham, co-founder of Q Branch Business Transformation, said: “We are very

proud to be supporting the me&dee Christmas present drive in collaboration with Melbourne Print

“This charity does incredible work all year round for families who are experiencing all the trauma of seeing children spending months in hospital Being based in Melbourne we see first hand the hard work that Maria and her team put in every day in helping bring joy to people’s lives when they sorely need it

“We hope that lots of people really get behind this Christmas present appeal and show that the festive spirit is alive and well We hope to see lots of gifts dropped off at Melbourne Print – they will go to people who really need them ”

Maria Hanson MBE said: “We are very grateful to Q Branch Business Transformation and Melbourne Print for organising this Christmas present drive for me&dee It’s great to see the local community getting together to help us do what we do best: spread joy Christmas is a very busy time for me&dee but it’s important to us to spread love and joy to as many families as we can You can’t imagine how much distress that lots of people are going through and a thoughtful Christmas present means so much to the children we help ”

All donations should be dropped off to Melbourne Print by Friday, December 5 For health and safety and hygiene reasons, only new gifts and toys can be accepted Melbourne Print is based at 73 Derby Road, Melbourne, DE738FE

HOMES PLAN PUBLIC

A PUBLIC Inquiry into the decision to refuse planning permission for 135 houses on Kings Newton Lane is set to commence on Tuesday, November 11.

The inquiry will run for up to eight days

The outline plan was refused earlier in the year and the developers, Richborough Estates Ltd, lodged an appeal against the council’s decision.

Members of the public are invited to attend the hear-

ing, and it is anticipated that Kings Newton Residents Association and a representative of Melbourne Civic Society will be making representations to the inspector.

A group of local residents opposing the plan have asked for a good show of public support Organiser Tom Scanlon said: “We are not intending to turn up with banners and beating drums but a show of numbers will demon-

INQUIRY

strate the local depth of feeling to this proposed development ”

A letter from the head of planning about the appeal says: “The inquiry is to be held as an in-person event.” It also says “members of the public may attend the Inquiry and, at the Inspector ’s discretion, express their views”

Full details of the application are available on the council’s website, reference DMPA/2025/0438

APPEALING (l-r) Ian Smith from Melbourne Print, Matt Clutterham from Q Branch Consulting, Maria Hanson MBE, founder of me&dee, Jenny Jarvis, co-founder of Q Branch, and Paul Wilson, owner of Melbourne Print (Photo: Chloe Clutterham)

Author Andy reflects on Spy Dog books incident

LOCAL libraries and schools have had to withdraw books by local author Andy Cope after the popular children’s series Spy Dog website was maliciously taken over and used to display pornographic content

Readers may have seen the sensationalist national news reports on the story

Andy explained to Village Voice how the damaging incident occurred The first Spy Dog book was published by Puf-

fin in 2006 Inspired by his own dog Lara, Spy Dog went on to win a number of awards, so a series followed

The books were a big hit internationally, so Andy started a website to sit alongside the series Twenty books later (the final Spy Dog novel was published in 2016) Andy retired from writing children’s fiction to concentrate on his career as a keynote speaker and wellbeing author

In 2020, with his career moving on, Andy decided he didn’t need the Spy Dog website anymore and the web address lay dormant until a few weeks ago when it was bought by someone who decided to use it maliciously Andy and his publisher, Penguin Random House, took immediate action The press release made national and international news and Spy Dog books have been temporarily suspended from sale

Andy is not allowed to comment on the nature of the ongoing action, but he is hopeful that things will be sorted out in the next few weeks

Andy said his publisher couldn’t have moved any quicker or been more supportive Never in a million years did he imagine that anyone else would buy the Spy Dog domain name and never in a billon years did he imagine it would be used maliciously

Harry gains England cap

MELBOURNE 17-year-old Harry

Forster has gained his first England cap after representing his country at cricket

Harry, who studies Sport & Exercise Science at Loughborough College, was part of the England U17 squad which made the final in the Emerging Stars indoor cricket tour in Bangalore last month

Harry was joined by dad Aaron along with England’s parent supporters to watch the games in Bengaluru

Mum Gemma, who stayed at home with Harry’s sisters to watch the action on the screen, said: “It was a really incredible experience and they did brilliantly winning their league, and getting through to the final where they came runners-up The tour began with an opening ceremony and ended with a closing ceremony and gala dinner

The team spirit and the coaches were just brilliant!

“Harry has always made us proud and

watching him represent his country has brought us all immeasurable joy Harry’s achievements in cricket, the sport he loves, are testament to the dedication and hard work he puts into his training, strength and conditioning and coaching every day We will forever be his biggest cheerleaders ” Fast bowler Harry started off his sporting career at Ticknall Cricket Club aged seven where he stayed for nearly 10 years before joining Ockbrook & Borrowash Cricket Club

Harry, who is pursuing a career as a professional cricketer, works with a strength and conditioning coach Ross Dewar, trains daily and has access to weekly webinars, an ex-pro fast bowling mentor and sport psychologist as well as his coach

As well as studying for an A-level in biology in his spare time, Harry is also part of the national Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) for elite athletes via Loughborough College

DALE’S LIFE-SAVER

Cont’d from Page 1

shocks failed to resuscitate Dale and his wife was told to bring the family to the hospital to say goodbye

But after eight minutes of no heart beat the third shock brought him back round

Dale was in hospital for another week where he underwent a procedure to insert two stents into his blocked arteries

A year later, Dale with family and friends took on the 10-mile run from the gym to Royal Derby Hospital and raised thousands of pounds to give back to the tireless staff in A&E

Dale said: “I wanted to do something fantastic for the emergency department I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them

And Sophie – she saved my life by driving me to the hospital, and she also suggested we should do the run there

“I raised the money for Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity which allows you to say which department you want it to go to Very few people raise money for A&E – yet most people go through there

l Dale with wife Sophie and daughter Margot after the run

“I find it difficult to understand why everybody doesn’t raise money for them They deal with all of us in our worst possible moments They’re there on Friday and Saturday nights and yet they still choose to go in every

saving doctors and nurses at

Royal Derby Hospital’s A&E department

See this link to donate: https://www justgiving com/pag e/ten-miles-to-save-my-life

CANDLELIT SERVICE

THE beautiful Staunton Harold Church will be candlelit for a service of carols and readings on Friday, December 5, at 7pm in aid of Bright Hope Parking is available in the Lion Court car park. Mince pies and drinks served afterwards. Everyone welcome. Wrap up warm!

He is coached by Leicestershire County Cricket Club legend Chris Wright

On his return from India, Harry has moved up to the Under 21s and begins training with them immediately in readiness for the World Cup

Harry said: “It was a great privilege and a proud moment earning my first England cap We started the tournament really strong with a win that set a great standard for the rest of the competition, resulting in us finishing first in our group I look forward to getting back to training and earning more England caps in the future ”

l England star Harry Forster

update on priorities

SOUTH Derbyshire Local Policing Inspector Leanne Craig has shared the latest update about the force’s priorities in the community

She said police had been concentrating on tackling anti-social behaviour over the summer through “proactive, high-visibility patrols and a series of online and in-person engagement events”

Speaking via the Derbyshire Alert system, she said: “As the seasons change, our commitment remains strong We’ll continue to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour through visible policing and community collaboration We have also delivered numerous school talks focusing on what constitutes ASB, its impact and the role of the police in addressing it ”

Police have seized off-road motorcycles, given section 59 warnings – relating to anti-social use of motorcycles –and referred individuals to the Bike Safe scheme

The police have also been focusing on the prevention of vehicle crime, including theft of and from vehicles

Stop checks have also been carried out in relation to drugs resulting in “positive detections”, said Leanne

She said: “Our goal is simple: to make South Derbyshire a safe and welcoming place for everyone, while ensuring it remains a hostile environment for that intent on causing harm Community safety and engagement are at the heart of everything we do ”

PUMPKINS have been in good supply this year with plenty to choose from grown within a few miles of our doorsteps.

Heaths Nursery in Melbourne opened up its pumpkin patch as usual for local people to get the chance to choose their favourite vegetables ready for the Hallowe’en season.

Your reporter got the chance to snap this picture of little Orson pushing a wheelbarrow at the pumpkin field, helped along by his dad, Matt.

Over at Swarkestone Nursery, managers put on a pumpkin patch for families to enjoy the fruits of the season What a great year for our local pumpkins

Boxer Alan’s boost for kids’ seaside charity

WORLD middleweight boxing champion

Alan Graves Jr is heading back to Derby for a big fight next month – and his parents from Barrow-upon-Trent could not be prouder

Alan is the son of Derbyshire County Council leader Cllr Alan Graves, who lives in the village with his wife, Ann

The ‘Homecoming’ fight on December 20 at Vaillant Live will be a night to remember for many reasons

This will this be the first time Ann has seen her son fight live in the ring

“She hates boxing!” said Alan Snr “She’s never been to any of his fights because she can’t stand to see him being hit – but she is going to this one

“I think it’s fantastic what he has achieved, and I wish him well on December 20 ”

Alan, who at 35 has had an astonishing professional boxing career, is also raising vital funds for the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre – a long-running charity providing seaside stays in Skegness for youngsters who would otherwise not get a break

Having been going since 1891, the charity is close to the family’s heart as grandma Joyce – the mother of the council leader – stayed there herself as a child

Cllr Graves said his mum – who died many years ago – had come from a poor background and had happy memories of her time at the centre

“She remembered it very fondly, and how much fun she had,” he said

Alan Graves Jr ’s journey through boxing has been meteoric, and is all the more remarkable as he only took up the sport two years ago – away from his other career as a successful businessman

Having won every one of his five professional fights, he took the middleweight world title this year

Former CEO of successful company DoNotAge, Alan Graves Jr said discovering his talent for boxing was a long-held dream

He said: “It’s always good to challenge yourself Everybody has their own struggles For me, I need something to focus on Boxing keeps me on the straight and narrow

“I’ve always watched boxing In the past I’ve been one of those guys who sat on the sofa with a bit of a belly and a beer thinking ‘I could do that’

“Once I stepped away from being CEO it became an opportunity for me to focus on something

“My initial aim was to have one professional fight I just got another one and then another!”

Boxer Alan has pledged to donate a pound to the charity for every online share of his training video, as well as a whopping £10,000 if the fight at Vaillant Live is a sell-out

He explained that he decided to donate to the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre not just because of his family connection, but after learning it had paused operations this year for fundraising purposes due to rising costs

He said: “I hadn’t realised the centre was struggling this year When my mother informed me, I felt I needed to do something about that

“I think there are lots of different reasons why the charity is really worth supporting

“It’s a nice break for the children who go We are in the UK, a supposedly first world country When these children go to school and start to socialise, they will hear about other kids who will

by Lucy Stephens

be going on breaks and holidays I don’t think it’s the children’s fault if they are born into poorer families and they can’t go away and have a break ”

Charity CEO Janine Holmes, who lives in Ticknall, said: “We are so pleased that Alan Graves is supporting our charity with his big fight It’s a huge vote of support for us as we work hard to re-open our charity in a sustainable way, so we can continue to do what we do best: put smiles on the faces of children as we did with Joyce all those years ago Thank you so much to him and I hope lots of people go and see the big Homecoming fight on December 20 Every ticket sale gets us close to the £10,000 we receive if the event sells out!”

Alan will literally be punching above his weight on December 20, as he prepares to face a formidable opponent in Germany’s David Kerkmann

Kerkmann has won every fight this year, has been victorious in 26 encounters during his career, and also competes in a heavier category than Alan at super middleweight

Alan is busy training for eight hours a day ahead of his big fight

“I’m proud to be creating a great night of boxing for the people of Derby,” he said “There will be a lot of fighters on the undercard as well And if the arena sells out, this charity will get an extra £10,000

“People who come to this event at Vaillant Live will get an amazing spectacle

“Being in the ring is really incredible I feel alive Nothing else matters There are only two things I want to worry about: the other guy’s hands ”

For more information, see @AlanJackGraves on Facebook To share the video, see https://www facebook com/share/v/1APdnN8cvK/

n There is also a pair of ringside tickets up for grabs by silent auction

Sealed bids can be sent to PO Box 8204 Derby DE19NX by Sunday, November 30.

Main picture: Alan Graves Jr in the ring with proud dad Alan and (above) grandma Joyce.

The Common Touch...

WE ARE really entering the winter season now and this means there are actually lots of things to do on site This could be coppicing, hedge laying or orchard tree pruning

Lots of woodland management is done in the winter; the opportunity arises as the trees are becoming more dormant Essentially, they are taking a winter nap

This time of year can often make us feel like we want to be more dormant, too, staying inside cosy and warm, having a nap

Getting out in the woodland and taking part in a volunteering session managing our woods – even in the cold – is great for your mental health It can feel really satisfying looking at a freshly laid hedge, knowing you re helping the trees regenerate in spring

Thinking of mental health we might consider what things we can let go of in our own lives like a tree loses its leaves Winter is a time to focus on what is important to us in our own lives and for some personal reflection

We’ll do some reflection as a co-operative project at our Annual General Meeting on Saturday, December 13 We have several spaces on the board for some new members to step up and help us plan for the next phase of Whistlewood

The bring and share lunch at these events is always worth turning up for and there are always interesting people and new ideas and plans to be made

We run our co-op on sociocracy principles which requires participation and consent decision making from the community we’ve created It uses a circular working system of interlinked decision-making groups, rather than hierarchical systems

Please contact us through our Instagram or Facebook pages if you want to be part of our interesting governance system

There’s a new ‘People Care’ circle forming to join as well, which links to one of the three Permaculture ethics which Whistlewood Co-op is based on This is a re-focus for our project – we’ve certainly worked on and achieved a lot of ‘Earth Care’ over the past decade

The other ethic is ‘Fair Shares and obviously they all intersect as well like a Venn diagram Circles are a fantastic shape to focus on, a supportive shape which also reflects the cyclical nature of our seasons

Let’s celebrate winter together in all its glory – KATHERINE PARRISH

WALKING TO HELP PUDSEY

CHILDREN in Melbourne stepped up to the fundraising challenge when their whole school went out for a walk

All pupils at Melbourne Junior School stepped out of their classrooms, put on their coats and hats,

and went out for a Pudsey Ramble for Children in Need

This was the school’s fifth whole school ramble and it raised £436 in donations for the BBC Children in Need appeal.

Councillors are ‘turkeys voting for Christmas’

COUNCILLORS of all parties and authorities have been facing huge decisions with the biggest re-organisation of local government in many years now stepping up pace

One South Derbyshire District Councillor used the expression ‘turkeys voting for Christmas’ to describe the decision facing them at an extraordinary council meeting in November to decide which of four new local authority options best suited the district

Meanwhile, councillors at Derbyshire County Council will be asked to consider a proposal for one authority for the whole of Derby and Derbyshire at its next meeting on November 13

At the extraordinary South Derbyshire District Council meeting, one councillor said there was no public mandate for this change; it was a “topdown diktat” and was “centralisation being passed off as reform”

Dr Justin Ives, Chief Executive Officer for SDDC, set out the various options which were being presented without recommendation, as he believed it was for elected members to decide

Leader of the controlling Labour group, Cllr Robert Pearson, had clearly wrestled with the decision, which he described as of significant consequence He admitted that local government reform was not the preferred option, and he said the two-tier approach had served us well for over 50 years Nonetheless the Government had made clear the need to move to unitary authorities, which would bring financial benefits and provide a simpler and single point of contact for services

All four options set before the council joined South Derbyshire with Derby City and Erewash Two, however, had Amber Valley joining the new Northern Unitary Authority (Options A and A1), a third, Option B had all of Amber Valley join the Southern Authority and a fourth (B1) had only some parishes of Amber Valley join the South There was also a fifth option – not to support any of the proposals

Cllr Pearson set out the choice the controlling group had made, which was for Option B He outlined that this option was the best for residents of South Derbyshire as it enabled sustained growth, it enabled Derby City to grow in all directions and it was the least complex and deliverable route He said this was not a decision made lightly and he proposed that a letter should go to the Minister outlining the concerns about the potential erosion of the local voice and the reservations many shared

Cllr Amy Wheelton (Independent) outlined her reasons for objecting She pointed out that 62% of South Derbyshire respondents to the consultation had disagreed with the unitary proposals She also highlighted the overall cost of the reform would be £400 million, and there was a question as to whether pension costs had been part of the financial considerations She predicted a rise in

by Frank Hughes and Lucy Stephens

council tax for South Derbyshire residents, and the “cold hard truth” was that those with socioeconomic disadvantage will be negatively impacted She also drew attention to the negative impact on the 80% of Derbyshire residents who live in rural areas

Despite ‘Against’ votes from almost all opposition councillors the vote was won by the controlling Labour group

After the vote, the mood in the council chamber seemed to change when the realisation hit that they had indeed just voted for the end of the district council as an entity, and probably, for many, the prelude to the end of political life

Over the summer, the county council – meanwhile - asked local people and partner organisations for their views on three options for reducing 10 councils in Derbyshire to two – one for the north of the county and one for the south including the city It also began detailed and independent analysis of the benefits, costs and risks of each option by comparing them against those of a single unitary council for the whole of Derby and Derbyshire

A statement from Derbyshire County Council said financial analysis showed the single council option was the most cost-effective by “a huge margin” – saving at least an extra £100m over the first six years compared to each of the twocouncil options and at least an extra £20m every year from then onwards

Feedback from residents, businesses and partners on the options put forward by the county council for creating two new unitary councils showed more people were opposed to them than were in favour and there was significant concern about splitting the county into more than one authority

Leader of Derbyshire County Council, Councillor Alan Graves said: “Central government’s major reorganisation of local councils across the country means we are facing decisions that will affect the way local services are run for years to come It’s vital that we make the right decision to simplify the system, make it more efficient and cut costs

“As the council providing the largest proportion of services in the area and managing the largest budget, we’re confident that our data analysis is realistic, credible and deliverable From these findings and feedback from residents, businesses and local partners, it’s clear that creating a single unitary council covering the whole of Derby and Derbyshire is in the best interests of all residents and businesses in the area ”

Government is expected to carry out a statutory consultation on all submitted proposals early in 2026

NEW APPEAL ON HOMES PLAN

KINGS Newton residents have been notified of a new appeal concerning a long-running planning application to build houses on Trent Lane

Last year the appeal in Melbourne and Ticknall raised a grand total of £13,348 including a contribution from Rolls-Royce Local people have been thanked for their generous support

Plans to build two homes on the land at Trent Lane have been rumbling on with a previous application already refused by committee and again at appeal.

Residents have until November 24 to comment on the proposals for two homes on the lane after a fresh appeal was launched in October.

A new application was then submitted which was again refused – and a second appeal has now been launched

The latest application was turned down on the basis it was “unacceptable development” on Trent Lane and caused harm to a conservation area

CHICK Whiting, Simon Gotheridge and Kevin Iliffe are pictured busy collecting for this year ’s Poppy Appeal at Sainsbury’s in Melbourne.

MP helps give teaching a breath of fresh air

SOUTH Derbyshire MP Samatha Niblett has been helping Weston-on-Trent Primary School pupils take more lessons in the fresh air after opening their new Forest School.

The 148-pupil school on Forrester Avenue welcomed the local MP to officially cut the ribbon on its latest Forest School area that has been created in a playing field

The inclusive space has been kitted out so pupils can enjoy regular lessons out there, practising core learning skills such as maths and reading with the natural world as inspiration

This is the second Forest School area that has been created at Weston Primary, with the MP also cutting the ribbon on a new yurt during her visit

Samantha was given a tour of the school by eager pupils who got the chance to hear about the life of an MP during a Collective Worship on the theme of democracy

Head teacher Mark Hibbert said: “We were delighted that our MP Samantha took the time to come and visit Weston Primary School and do us the honour of opening our new Forest School

“At Weston it is important to us to allow our pupils to thrive by offering inclusive spaces where they

by Lucy Stephens

can learn in the best way possible

“All our pupils get the opportunity to enjoy learning in our Forest School and with our new yurt, willow tunnel, Viking tent, pots, pans, camp fire and huge tyre –along with so many other things –there is so much for them to get stuck into and enjoy

“We’re very grateful to our Diocese for providing funding for our new spaces and to the whole team at Weston for working so hard to create these fantastic areas Children learn best when they are relaxed and engaged and I know how much they will enjoy learning in these new spaces – bringing that enthusiasm back into the classroom too ”

The MP said she had been “blown away” by her visit to the school: “Weston-on-Trent Primary School is a wonderful inclusive environment where they bring the outdoors inside The children are getting the chance to play and learn in this new Forest School – I saw a maths class taking place outside

“This is a wonderful, calm school led by an incredible head teacher who

“AT the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them … ”

Those words once more echoed around Melbourne’s War Memorial on Sunday, November 9, as a large crowd assembled to remember those fallen in conflict.

As part of Remembrance Sunday wreaths were laid by many community groups, organisations, councils, schools, churches and in memory of those sadly lost.

The notes of The Last Post and Reveille shimmered over the crowd, the two-minute silence was solemnly held, a hymn was sung and prayers said

Gravestones poser for councillors

NOVEMBER’S Melbourne Parish Council meeting was mostly business as usual, with delivery groups chasing progress on new CCTV for the village, refurbishment of the cemetery chapel, listing all the Heritage Assets, relocating parish maps and sorting the Thomas Cook gardens.

One issue that did raise eyebrows was the quote from stonemasons to make repairs to cemetery headstones After “wobble testing” headstones, contacting families, and then laying down dangerous ones, the council has now been told that headstones lying flat on the ground are a trip hazard and will all have to be raised

One councillor summed it up saying “we’ve gone stark raving mad!”

The outcome was to get in further quotes and then seek advice from the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management

Another tricky issue to tackle is the proliferation of A frame advertising on narrow pavements

Councillors had been receiving complaints that these were causing obstructions for pedestrians, mobility scooters, prams and pushchairs

Whilst the council recognised the need for businesses to advertise, and they had also installed planters in several locations, the complaints did need to be addressed The highways group were asked to give the matter further consideration

A member of the public addressed the council about problems she and her friend had encoun-

by Frank Hughes

tered walking their dogs She asked if the speed limit could be reduced and/or if the verges there could be lowered on Breach Lane

“It’s an accident waiting to happen” she said, with big trucks and lorries regularly using the road and electric cars so silent you can’t hear them approach

Chair Cllr Andy Dawson sympathised with the problem and said that the council had previously asked for the speed limit to be reduced only to have that solution turned down It was agreed that the highways group would be given the task of considering what options there might be and then liaise with the county council

Arrangements for the Late Night Lights

Switch-On are progressing well The event is on Friday, December 5, starting mid-afternoon, with the lights turned on at 6pm

As usual there will be food stalls, local businesses open, Holland fair rides, Melbourne Town Band and an appearance from Santa Claus

There will also be a lantern procession along Church Street by local school children to coincide with the lighting-up time Parents who would like their children to take part are asked to contact the clerk to the parish council Roads will be closed from 3pm and re-open at 9pm

Thanks for stamps

HUGE thanks to Village Voice readers and fellow hoarders who collected their used stamps for the RNIB during the past year

Please do not be deterred from collecting now that stamps are barcoded, and sometimes marked by pen Do remember to leave at least 1cm of paper around them and, if posting, please check the price at the Post Office

There are fewer stamped envelopes these days and the price of posting is high, but we are still managing to collect significant quantities for this worthy charity

Happy Christmas from Jean Grimley, Hoarder in Chief, of 37 Sweet Leys Way, Melbourne, DERBY DE73 8LE and Jane Lakin, who spends hours patiently sorting, trimming and posting

Solar power query

Would

l FAR LEFT: The Melbourne

LEFT and ABOVE: Revellers at the Hallowe’en party organised by Kings Newton

was on the cards this Hallowe’en in Melbourne

s in the village getting in on the action.

on Social Group hosted a Hallowe’en Party on the Scout and Guide HQ

ops were supplied by Simon and Sue Quinn to y atmosphere in the games which caused great hilarity with ds Right and Mummy or Dummy creating the ent.

n Melbourne pubs joined in the Hallowe’en celh traditional lit pumpkins and spooky decora-

t of 10 for effort at the Melbourne Inn with the andlady in full costume as Deadpool – the Ryan acter from the X men films – and Pennywise –n character from Stephen King's It.

s even renamed as the Melly-ween Inn for the the Hallowe’en disco, the menu of themed onal apple bobbing and tricks and treats, hosts e should be applauded for putting on the spookomer put it “one of the best Hallowe’en nights to!” at the Royal British Legion, guests had put in n their costumes with several familiar spooky king an appearance and some incredible latex the bar.

Inn’s ghostly entrance.

Social Club

l Ella and Amy Winfield behind the taps at the Royal British Legion

Fine Art Embroider: Michelle Holmes, Still Life Artist: Steven Tandy. Artists: Steven McLoughlin, Helen Rhodes, Alice Smith, The Tiny Maker-Connie Wan-Hart, Barbara Bagley, Beth Edge. Ceramics by: Russell Wilson and Janet Gibson. Enamelling by: Christine Pearson. Metalwork by: Roger Davies and work by other gallery artists.

Players make it

hysterical history lesson

THIS year marks the 900th (ish) birthday of Melbourne Parish Church, which has been celebrated with a series of events. The latest, a show by St Michael’s Players, was attended with great enjoyment by COLIN BARKER

The dates of October 16 and 17, 2025 will long be remembered until at least the year 2033 Because of a difference of opinions, this may be the actual date of Melbourne Parish Church’s 900th anniversary – much to the alarm of St Michael’s Players, meaning this event may have to be repeated

This wonderful 2025 live and filmed show will go down as one of the all-time great performances by the Players It may even challenge the 2005 classic performance of ‘Allo’Allo

The 2025 show began with a PCC, setting up a PCC 900 Sub-Committee, strangely resembling and very similar to the committee once seen on TV’s The Vicar of Dibley This 900 group had been upgraded with a bishop, from not far away, instead of a vicar This meeting set the scene for the whole evening and just like our real 900 Committee, the ‘Dibley’ Group had a member named ‘Jim’, (Noo, Noo, Noo, Noo, ‘Yes’), wonderfully performed

They discussed not having services in Latin and organising a medieval banquet with authentic ‘hog roast cobs’ However, during this meeting and probably much to the dismay of the performers who should be sitting on the ‘front row’, but our very own new vicar Rosemary and her husband Craig

From that moment on, and apart from an interval, it was a wonderful non-stop comedy show Nothing and nobody was safe from their ridicule There were quips about the power station, dry land, market gardeners, DHL and the airport, Pool Cottage, the first Canada geese, swans and ducks to arrive on Melbourne Pool, doggy poop and bags everywhere, race track noise, restaurants and eateries like Meaks and Forteys

We had an episode of ‘Star Trek’ under the heading ‘Worm Hole’ with such old friends such as Spock and Chekhov

The ‘film’ version of ‘Norman Times’ had some superb acting (who could forget Phil?) with some references being very close to ‘x-rated, in fact the mildest I can make is that of a ‘suppository’

The Players also enlightened us about a little known period called ‘Rotten Reform’ during the Reformation when Henry VIII declared himself ‘Head of Protestant Churches’ Unfortunately for

his knights who wanted to seize the church, they ordered a passing ‘peasant’ (Mark Rotherham), to kick the church door down

However, the Melbourne Church Teams were more than a match for them Who could possibly contend with the likes of: the choir, Messy Church, the craft fayre, Angels Delight, flower arrangers, cleaners, living waters, a lutenist and guitarist (Craig), Mothers Union, bell ringers, Friends, key holders and the Clergy

In conclusion, when you consider the huge amount of ‘content’ within ‘900 Years Of Hysterical History’, beginning in the 12th Century and through to present day, this performance by St Michael’s Players was an outstanding piece of work

Together with the quality of the acting by 22 performers and the superb preparatory work from the behind the scenes team of approximately 15 people, with writers Margaret, Gordon and Frank, it was also so good to see new, young talented performers

The Players’ first ever performance was a production of Anything Goes in 1982, so let us not forget past members, no longer with us, or retired St Michael’s Players has always been a hugely talented group of people and should be lauded for their dedication and what they do for St Michael with St Mary’s Parish Church, the community of Melbourne and its surrounding villages

l Sallie Jackson (left - the bishop) and Bev Bennett (right - the witch)

l ABOVE: Gordon Hughes, Harry Davies, Des Gosling and Frank Hughes.

DOWN ON THE FARM

With Ben Stanley

I AM in paradise. Surrounded by green and rugged mountains, I am stood on a perfect beach, the tide is out and the white smooth sand is deserted apart from the four of us and a gaggle of Greylag Geese jabbering away in the long grasses in the Machair behind me.

The clear blue water is shimmering in the sunlight as gentle waves lap onto the shore As I close my eyes I can feel the gentle late autumn sunshine warm on my face, I can hear Iona jumping up and down on top of the waves and the chuff, chuff of Bertie’s plastic spade as he attempts to dam the entire Atlantic Ocean

With my eyes closed I savour my experiences in Scotland over the past week and contemplate that not only is it a beautiful place to be a farmer, but it is an exciting one as well

It has been a bit of a busman’s holiday, travelling to a packed Stirling Bull sales and watching magnificent beasts sell for the same amount of money as houses, (admittedly the same price as a house in South Shields not Melbourne) But the sort of investment that requires some serious confidence for the future of farming

I think about our friend Andrew and his wife, Fiona, coming over and spending a couple of days with us in our cottage Andrew runs one of the largest and oldest estates in Scotland He was bristling with excitement as he told me about the new combine harvester they had just purchased with a huge machine mouth wide enough to swallow whole fields of crops at the touch of a button A machine so expensive you could not just buy a house with the same

amount of money, but a house in Melbourne, perhaps even a house on Penn Lane They are building new potato stores and investing in land – land to farm

I can still feel the sun warm on my face, a little more breeze now, but the fresh sea breeze is invigorating I don’t want to open my eyes just yet as I remember my day in Oban at the auction mart there, where at the annual sale of native weaned heifer calves from the Highlands and Islands broke all records

I remember the rhythm, the hum, the poetry of Raymond, the auctioneer, as he never missed a stride setting record after record, for pen after pen as purchasers fought for hardy native cattle to build their herds and invest in their farming future The trade was electric and crofters from all over the Islands having made the long journey to Oban with their cattle were smiling from ear to ear

I can’t ever remember witnessing a trade like it Wake me up, I must be dreaming

And then I did wake up out of my daze with a start, the sun had disappeared, the wind had picked up and as I opened my eyes I saw the children and Tori running towards me, away from the black cloud that was engulfing the beach and with it the hail came, battering sideways hail, stinging the skin, we all ran, even the geese pulled anchor and came honking over our heads, furiously flapping their wings

By the time we got back to the car exhausted, we were all wet through, children crying and blue It was the last day of our annual holiday on the Isle of Mull and the sudden and dramatic

hail storm that blasted me from my agricultural day dream to send us on our way home, felt like such a metaphor for the seismic regional difference in agricultural confidence between our nations

This year we were able to have a longer trip than normal, mostly because for the first time probably in over a century no wheat is being grown at Park Farm The need to be sat on a tractor poddling in wheat all October has gone What is the point of blowing time and money sowing wheat, when you can spend more time with your young family in Scotland?

In England gone is the safety net of a subsidised system that incentivised the gamble to roll the dice and grow wheat, gone is the subsidy apparatus that kept the cost of home produced food lower and gone is the reliable seasonable weather that made farming a fair wager The last Conservative government in England used the Brexit reset to reformulate farm support; for us this has meant more hedges, more flowering meadows, more livestock to rejuvenate our soil

Thousands of farmers in England followed suit and, do you know what, it was bloody working: throw us a challenge and we will have a go

And if it is food production in partnership with nature recovery that society wants, that’s what we were delivering

Making huge changes we were amazed how immediate nature recovery became Government support for farming regeneratively allowed us to take the pressure off the land, whilst still being able to pay the rent After all ambitious land agents are not going to adjust the

rent based on how well the farm has done on the annual big farmland bird count

But now this government has canned the nature idea, with no timeline set for anything to really replace it; maybe they didn’t like it because Boris came up with it or maybe it’s because Rachel from accounts doesn’t like watching Countryfile or making decisions So now what are we supposed to do? We have got to pay the rent somehow whilst waiting for the government to decide what the countryside is for

In Scotland nothing changed, the devolved government chose to retain its direct support for farming, told them how important farming was and let them crack on Farming matters up there and in Scotland I found optimism, confidence and a purpose that was so refreshing and invigorating The irony of the situation where English taxpayers are still funding Scottish farmers, having withdrawn support from our own farmers, won’t be lost on any of you though

What a mess Should we diversify further, take an additional job?

But do we really want our food, food that we are prepared to put in our own bodies being produced by a bunch of part-timers and then importing it from wherever we can’t see it being produced?

When I close my eyes I want that feeling of excitement and confidence for farming back, like when I was stood on the beach with the sun on my face

Is it mad to dream that the hail will stop and the sun will come out again bright and confident from behind that big black cloud?

JOHN BLUNT of Staunton Harold relates an interesting chapter in the history of the old flour mill by Melbourne Pool, which is now on the market

Story of the old mill

IN THE 1950s the flour mill by Melbourne Pool was operated by Roland Adcock, my 'Uncle Rol ’ Its scope was much reduced, and the buildings which adjoin it now were mostly unused But the main building did a busy trade

This three-storey building was erected in the early 1600s, with rubble stone probably brought from the derelict castle round the comer in Castle Square

The giant waterwheel was still in place, but long disused, at the lefthand gable end

Instead uncle Rol used a heavy iron Pelton Wheel, housed in a wooden box on the other gable He also had the option of electricity

This wheel was attached to an iron drive shaft, which ran the whole length of the building, slightly above head height on the middle floor To this were attached four or five large drive wheels with fat belts running off to various machines All

the belts ran constantly; you ducked and weaved your way to hold a shouted conversation with Rol, while the floor vibrated under your feet It was a safety officer ’s worst nightmare

The top floor held the raw grain We backed our pick-up truck to the central door, now a window, and carried the hessian sacks inside

From there it was poured into hoppers and ground Then back into sacks and held in a projecting wing from which it was lowered by an electric hoist into our vehicle on the track below

The ground floor was mostly unused, apart from a small office and bag store All the action was on the middle floor

Uncle Rol kept a posse of very wild cats to control the vermin I remember on one occasion being sent to catch one to tackle our own problem at Castle Farm My mother was too soft with our own cats; she put food out for them

Is your child starting school in Autumn 2026?

Come along to one of our open day or evening sessions to see our wonderful and happy school in action and find out about the opportunities we offer for every child to succeed.

Thurs. 16th October 1pm - 3pm

Sat. 1st November 9am - 11am

Tues. 4th November 1pm - 3pm

Wed. 12th November 5pm - 6.30pm

Frid. 28th November 9am - 11am

Please call or email the school office to book a place or arrange a visit. We are also accepting admissions for all other year groups, please contact us for further information.

We pride ourselves in being a school that nurtures the seeds of potential in every child, enabling them to grow and flourish into their own unique contribution to the world. We have a happy, caring and supportive learning environment with our own school dog, small class sizes, an abundance of space, weekly forest school sessions and daily school-led wrap around provision from 7:45am - 5:30pm.

This is a GOOD school where pupils ‘go into school happy and come out happy.’ Ofsted November 2022

‘The ambitious curriculum balances academic rigour with a sense of belonging.’

‘Parents rightly appreciate the discrete, personalised care that they and their children receive.’ SIAMS January 2025

St Hardulph’s C of E Primary School, Main Street, Breedon on the Hill, DE73 8AN

Email: office@st-hardulphs.leics.sch.uk Tel: 01332 862572

Website: www.st-hardulphs.leics.sch.uk

Headteacher: Mrs Kelly Ellis

Flourishing lives, rooted in God, nurturing all.

Gonk Making Workshop

Sunday 23 November - 10.30 - 1.30 pm

£40 Adult £20 Child 14+

Reindeer Making Workshop

Sunday 30 November - 10 - 12 pm

£27 per Reindeer - Suitable for children 6+ Wreath Making Workshop

Saturday 6 December

2 sessions: 11.00 - 12.30pm 1.30 - 3.00 pm

£30 per Wreath

To book a place: www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop

Available for hire for Woodland Weddings, Children’s Parties and Celebratory Events

Why not join us now and become a member for discounted site hire and prices on places at Whistlewood events. Don’t forget about our Ofsted Registered Forest School too!

For further information about Whistlewood please visit www.whistlewoodcommon.org

email: mrhgasservices@hotmail.com

local, MELBOURNE BASED technician. MRH Gas Services Limited

Members of the Parish Council

Chairman

Andy Dawson 07811 586049

Vice Chairman

Nigel Collyer 07831 540538

Facilities & Events Committee

Chairman

Andy Dawson 07811 586049

Highways & Environment

Committee

Kevin Guilford

Chairman

Planning Committee

Chairman

David Smith 01332 862699

Finance, HR, Risk & Strategy

Chairman

Committee

Andy Dawson 07811 586049

Councillors

Kate Beckett

Dave Calvert

Jane Carroll 01332 863269

Nigel Collyer 07831 540538

Andy Dawson 07811 586049

Freya Doswell

George Dunnicli 07780 806267

Matt Gotheridge

Kevin Guilford

Sheila Hicklin

Caroline Roberts

David Smith 01332 862699

Terry Statham

Terry Summerlin 07528 884778

Angela Tillyard

Clerk Vicky Roe (WhatsApp only) 07824 634604

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

THE Priest House at Kings Mills, on the Derbyshire/Leicestershire border, is very well established hotel, bar and restaurant venue It has extensive grounds, that include gardens and woodlands, is situated by the side of the River Trent, at this tranquil place

Renowned for the quality of all that The Priest House offers, countless visitors return often –a very good sign in itself – with weddings and civil partnerships being regular occurrences This prestigious venue is regarded as being amongst the top wedding venues in the East Midlands I visited to dine

To begin, I favoured Thai Tempura King Prawns This dish gained my confidence for the following courses, as it was flavoursome and had a most attractive presentation An excellent commencement

My main course choice was for Moroccan Spiced Chicken (chicken breast, Middle-Eastern vegetable cous cous, sweet and spicy confit onion and raisin Tfaya) This popular dish arrived with aromas that enticed my taste buds Perfectly cooked and presented, with complementing flavours in abundance, ‘compliments to chef ’ were certainly dispatched

Head Chef is Robert

Melbourne Parish Council

Our community gathered in record numbers to mark Remembrance Day at the town’s war memorial. Under kind, dry skies, residents came together to pay their respects and honour the sacri ce of those who gave their lives in service to their country.

The ceremony was marked by dignity and re ection, as wreaths were laid and a two-minute silence was observed. The turnout was among the largest seen in recent years, re ecting the deep sense of gratitude and remembrance within the local community. The event was a perfect example of what makes Melbourne so special.

Sincere thanks to Melbourne Town Band and the Royal British Legion and the many volunteers whose hard work and dedication ensured the event ran safely and smoothly. Their e orts helped make this year’s service a tting tribute to the fallen and a moment of unity for the town.

We’re now looking forward to our next community event, the Christmas lights switch on and evening market, on Friday 5th December.

Children are invited with their parents, to join our Christmas lantern parade, lighting up the town with a festive glow. Families can bring their own lanterns and gather at 5:15pm inside the Parish Church, Church Square, where a seasonal treat and drink will be waiting. From there, the parade will make its way to the Market Place, arriving in time to help Santa with the big countdown to switching on Melbourne’s Christmas lights at 6:00pm.

We’ll have late night shopping and lots of stalls. With twinkling lights, live music and our community spirit shining bright, the evening promises to be a joyful start to the Christmas celebrations.

Best wishes, Andy Dawson

Chairman,

Melbourne Parish Council

Navarro

Other choices included Pulled Pork Bon Bon, Smoked Salmon, Rib-Eye and Sirloin Steaks, plus fish options, Signature Burgers, Triple-decker Club and Salads

A selected dessert of Sticky Toffee Pudding brought the dining occasion towards its inevitable conclusion, perfectly Parties/occasions, plus corporate functions (and weddings, of course), at The Priest House by the river, are extremely popular and booked well in advance

Afternoon teas are hugely popular too

The Priest House Hotel, located a few minutes from the M1 and East Midlands Airport, also offers Park & Fly arrangements and boasts 42 luxury bedrooms that include romantic suites, family and executive bedrooms, plus cottage rooms, providing great options for short breaks

A grade II listed water wheel adds to the delightful surroundings Events take place throughout the year and include exceptional dining experiences

Thank you for Jasmine’s greeting and Andrew, for exemplary service throughout Highly recommended

Trevor Langley gives us a taste of what ’s on offer in our local restaurants

Tel: 01332 810649

E-mail: reception@thepriesthouse co uk

Web: www thepriesthouse co uk

Not an unlucky 13

THIRTEEN organisations benefited from the funds raised at this year ’s Melbourne Fete and Carnival, which took place last July

Over £2,000 was donated to local worthy causes

The “wrap” party was held at Melbourne Inn and representatives from all the organisations were there to accept the awards and say a little about how the funds will help The overall impression of the evening was that Melbourne is very well served by the social, sporting and community groups we have and that fund-raising events like the fete and carnival are absolutely vital to help them financially Awards were given to Bracraft, Commu-

nity Care, Melbourne Rugby Club, Melbourne Infant and Junior schools, me&dee, Rotex, the Methodists, Man Club, ladies softball and cricket, Beavers, Kings Newton Bowls and the Scouts

A special award for first prize in the carnival procession was given to Paddy Laban and family.

Invited guests also enjoyed a sumptuous buffet provided by Tracey Ridley and the carnival committee while the young carnival team, Max, Lottie, Jess and Izzy were also on hand to celebrate the awards occasion.

Tracey also announced the date and theme for Carnival 2026: Saturday, July 11, and the theme will be Legends

The Priest House Hotel, Kings Mills, Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2RR

l Melbourne Carnival chair Tracey Ridley is helped by young members of the team in handing out awards to

Charity’s thankyou for local support

by Lucy Stephens

A MELBOURNE charity which in one evening raised £11,000 to support families going through tough medical situations has voiced gratitude to the local community for its huge support

Maria Hanson MBE, founder of the much-loved me&dee, has said she could not be more delighted that so many organisations supported its October charity ball

With the sole event sponsor Melbourne Print – which provided all printed materials free of charge – the glittering event

saw a familiar face as Master of Ceremonies, parish council chair Cllr Andy Dawson

As well as that, local businesses Bank of Beers; The Spirit Vaults; Melbourne Florist; Forteys; The Bear at Home; Meaks; Best Kept Secret; Temple Hair Spa; Lisa Bullivant; Millpond Antiques; Maria Alicia Jewellery at Melbourne Hall; and Pierre Hourlier Wines all donated to a ‘Made in Melbourne’ hamper

It was the star prize on the night and won by Jack Thompson, under 21s goalkeeper at Derby County FC

Maria said she was overwhelmed by the support from Melbourne and to cap it all, received a visit from carnival chair Tracey Ridley presenting

chair

goalkeeper Jack Thompson winning the ‘Made in Melbourne hamper)

a £300 cheque from funds raised at the summer event

The money will be used to fund 10 ‘Hope’ elephants, the charity’s signature keepsake

A ‘Hope’ elephant has a voice recorder in its ear where families can record precious sounds of their loved ones, providing profound comfort either when

Police focus on anti-social behaviour

DURING October ’s brief Local Area Forum in Barrow-on-Trent members of the public were informed about policing activities and news from the local council

PC Boniface of the Safer Neighbourhood Police team said they had created a plan to deal with the anti-social behaviour and associated drug and vehicle crime problems in Lowes Lane and surrounding area

This was one of the community-led priorities for the police team, and they have been enhancing both uniformed and plain clothes patrols. He mentioned several successful convictions and stop and search activities These included hree males being stopped around Melbourne Pool and given community orders for drugs offences

The police will also be focussing on road safety, by targeting highway obstructions, speeding and anti-social use of vehicles The public are asked to report incidents by calling 101 or on social media

In response to a question about electric

bikes, the officer explained that the poli did have the power to seize e-scooters an modified e-bikes and indeed had done so r cently

Asked also about aggressive “cher knocking” where doors are being damage by young people, the police said they ha been visiting houses and had taken action

In council news there was an announc ment on consultation on an arts strategy help set out how they can support and d velop arts and creativity across the comm nities. The free tree scheme is also runnin again this year, where individuals and com munity groups, including schools, can app for young trees ready for planting

Alison Bennett, an executive director South Derbyshire District Council, pr vided an update on the One Derbyshire-Tw Councils plans for local government r structure, and which of the various option for reorganisation will be proposed in th near future. – FRANK HUGHE

they are separated due to hospital stays or while grieving after a loss

One mother used the elephant’s device to record the last snores of her young son before his untimely passing through illness

Now 19 years old, me&dee provides memory-making experiences for families where a potentially life-limiting condition has been diagnosed

Its new Continuing Care programme helps families who are going through or have experienced tough medical situations, and includes a popular swimming session in Derby for children who – through disability –might not be able to access the sport

Maria said: “We have been blown away by the support we have received in Melbourne for our fund-raising ball along with money donated by Melbourne Carnival

“We operate our charity and run events with a very small team and it means the world to us to have so much support

“Big thanks to the likes of Melbourne Print and the carnival committee for supporting me&dee The families we help through special memory-making experiences when they are going through so much will be very grateful It means the world to us that our hard work is recognised by the people of Melbourne Thank you ”

AFTER a successful spring fair in May, The Melbourne Artisan Fayre returns for Christmas at the Assembly Rooms Organisers are celebrating the authentic, hand-crafted work of over 20 local artists with ceramics, jewellery, glass art, prints and artwork

Many of them have featured at Melbourne Festival including the work of Matthew Warburton, Nick Marsh, and local ceramicists Helen Billingsley, among many others

There will also be the work of new artists and local makers

The aim of the fayre is to give local artists and creative community an opportunity to bring their talent to the public and support their businesses

The event is being held on Saturday, December 13, from 10am-4pm and all are invited for some festive shopping in the run-up to Christmas

NEW housing measures to protect birds from avian flu have come into force across the whole of Derbyshire with some suspected cases investigated at Elvaston Castle

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, which includes the new housing measures, was introduced by the Animal and Plant Health Agency, part of DEFRA, just after midnight on October 30 and is in response to increased cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in wild birds and new cases in poultry and kept birds, coupled with heightened risk levels

Santa Claus is coming to town...

FRIDAY 5TH DEC, FROM 5.30PM

Melbourne Late Night ShoppingMarket Place. Meet Santa and post your letter.

SUNDAY 7TH DEC, FROM 5.00PM The Woodlands, Nettlefold Crescent, Smith Avenue, Paget Road, Main StreetKings Newton, Station Road, Sweet Leys Way, Freeman Drive, Huntingdon Court, Sta ord Close.

MONDAY 8TH DEC, FROM 6.00PM Derby Road, Blanch Croft, George Street, Dunnicli e Lane, Moira Street, Selina Street, Washington Close, Quick Close, South Street, Alma Street, North Street, Victoria Street.

TUESDAY 9TH DEC, FROM 6.00PM Commerce Street, Hope Street and Ticknall Village.

MONEY RAISED WILL GO TOWARDS A DEFIBRILLATOR

FRIDAY 12TH DEC, FROM 6.00PM Armsgate, Ashby Road, Penn Lane, Peniston Rise, Salsbury Lane, up Church Street, Market Place, Church Street, Castle Mills, Castle Street, Jubilee Close, The Lilypool, The Crescent, Chapel Street, Potter Street.

SUNDAY 14TH DEC, FROM 5.00PM Packhorse Road, Oaklands Way, Queensway, Derby Road, Windsor Avenue, Melton Avenue, Spinney Hill.

ABOVE: carnival

Tracey Ridley presenting a cheque to Maria.

RIGHT: Cllr Andy Dawson, chair of Melbourne Parish Council, in his full Master of Ceremonies get up and Derby County FC Under 21s

Mastering Melbourne

MAYBE I should rename this month’s column Mastering Malta:

The Half Marathon – since that is what I am now pounding the streets of Melbourne training for I say streets, but here is the beauty of running in Melbourne and surrounds … it doesn’t have to be the streets To be able to find a footpath within a few minutes from home is a luxury and one I am grateful for The Cloud Trail is perfect for flat runs. And who doesn’t like a flat run? Whenever my training plan says ‘easy run’ I know this will be a go-to spot Actually, whenever my training plan says ‘easy run’ I laugh like a drain and then once recovered, spend the rest of the day wondering what even an easy run is Where do they find these names? For all you experienced runners out there and those that aren’t, I do know what this really means (conversational pace) but it still makes me laugh … I’m not sure I’d ever name a run ‘easy’ Although I guess once you’ve

stepped out of the front door, the most difficult part has happened –so technically, the rest is ‘easy’

The Cloud Trail stretches from Derby City Centre to Worthington, along canal paths and a former railway – and lucky Melbourne is en route.

Since living here I have discovered – thanks to the run leaders of Melbourne Joggers – a number of paths that lead from the Cloud Trail, in nearby villages, which can either lead to some trail paths or give yourself an excuse to test your Strava hill sprints, which can become a thing or so I’m told

Last week on a long run I found myself headed out through Stanton by Bridge, which had a road closed sign The sign was pertinent to vehicles, so I continued and was headed out to Ingleby Road

At one point there were some barriers on the right-hand side with a row of about 10 or so work persons in high vis, lined up so close together they reminded me

of the crowds at a road race.

I half expected them to clap and cheer and tell me I was nearly there It didn’t happen, but in my head it had – and it is all about what you tell yourself on a long run.

I then had a lovely long downhill, which I was feeling smug about, until I realised I had to retrace my steps to follow the footpath off to the right to eventually get me back to Melbourne. This meant back up the downhill. I was telling myself all sorts to get me to the top

The joy of connecting footpaths and lanes to loop back into Melbourne and seeing what picture you’ve created on your running footprint (there has to be some joy to this running malarky!) knows no bounds – even when it ends up looking like a dinosaur

To explain, I have no interest in dinosaurs. TAS, however, finds them extremely interesting, and I finally had a daughter comment on the Fam Chat – “it actually does look like one ” Which says

rather more about my previous map ‘pictures’, I think. With the love of the countryside now firmly entrenched in my soul, I attended a talk at the Civic Society, Melbourne, on The National Forest (TNF) by Philip Metcalfe, Green Infrastructure and Planning Manager of TNF

The surrounding woodlands was another pull to living up here and I was interested to see that it isn’t just about having trees in the ground. It is about ‘a wooded landscape that provides a setting within which people live work and learn’

Again, the connections of ancient forests of Needwood and Charnwood, with Melbourne and other areas in between is great to hear about

When we are hearing so much about division in the world today, it is good to know that this company, 30 years old this year – for 11 of which it has been a charity – is striving for sustainability and inspiring the younger generations to bring benefits for nature, peo-

by Naomi Duffree

ple and businesses

Living in and near such beautiful surrounds keeps inspiring me to get out and walk or run these footpaths. I was keen to accept the challenge of the 75-mile linear walk along the Forest Way but that will have to wait for next year, let’s get the 13.1miles out of the way first! Besides which I need time to persuade TAS that he might spot a dinosaur in the

What’s On

YOUR REGULAR GUIDE TO EVENTS IN OUR AREA

Wednesday 12 November - Saturday 20 December:

Creative Melbourne Gallery Exhibition

Glisten

Fine Art Embroider: Michelle Holmes, Still Life Artist: Steven Tandy. Artists: Steven McLoughlin, Helen Rhodes, Alice Smith, The Tiny Maker-Connie Wan-Hart, Barbara Bagley, Beth Edge. Ceramics by: Russell Wilson and Janet Gibson. Enamelling by: Christine Pearson. Metalwork by: Roger Davies and work by other gallery artists.

Creative Melbourne Gallery, Wellington House, Church Street DE73 8EJ

We are open 10.00 - 4.00 Wednesday - Saturday

Wednesday 12 & 26 November & 10 December:

Melbourne Historical Research Group's Archive Room welcomes the public

Melbourne Assembly Rooms - 10am-1pm

Tuesday 25 November:

Melbourne Community Care Memory Cafe

Melbourne Assembly Rooms 1.30pm-3.30pm. For people with dementia & their families & carers or experiencing memory loss.

Friday 31 October - Saturday 29 November: Creative Melbourne Community Exhibitions

Drop in to Melbourne Library during library opening hours to view art made by the local community as part of The 2025 Big Draw Festival.

Saturday 15 November:

Coffee Morning

United Reformed Church Hall, High Street. 10am - noon.

Saturday 15 November:

If These Sherds Could Speak!

Melbourne Historical Research Group's Autumn Talk on the rich pottery heritage by guest speakers Sue Brown & Janet Spavold. 7pm Melbourne Assembly Rooms. Tickets £4 each; under 16s free if accompanied by an adult - available on the door or in advance from the Archive Room at MARs, or by emailing melbournehrg@gmail.com or via 07989 648601. Refreshments available.

Tuesday 18 November:

Me&Dee Quiz Night

MSP, Cockshut Lane, Melbourne DE73 8DG. £10.00 per person, teams of up to 6 people (food included) Open at 6:00pm. Food from 6:15pm. Quiz at 7.15pm. meanddee.co.uk/product/quiz-night-2/ to secure your team contact us at: events@meanddee.co.uk or call: 01332 297 011

Wednesday 19 November:

Melbourne PROBUS Coffee Morning

in aid of Treetops Hospice. 10:00 am. The Royal British Legion, Melbourne. Includes a presentation about their work by Natalie Goodrich, the Relationship Manager and Community Engagement Officer for Treetops. Open to all. No charge but donations to Treetops to help support their work. All enquires to andrewbaldwin2012@gmail.com

Friday 21 November:

Melbourne Community Care

Stroke Support Group

Melbourne Assembly Rooms in the Lounge. 10am to 12pm A friendly group for those that have had a Stroke or TIA and ones that support them. Free refreshments available.

Saturday 22 November:

Knitting Inspired Wall Hangings

with Jenny Stevenson. Creative Melbourne Gallery, Church Street, Melbourne. 10.15am - 3.45pm. £80 per person.

Join Jenny for a creative day workshop inspired by Melbourne’s historic framework knitting cottages and stocking factories. You’ll create your own collage papers and fabrics using experimental techniques in the morning, then turn them into a layered hanging with leather straps, wooden elements, and stitched details in the afternoon. Some basic stitching experience recommended, all materials provided. Suitable for adults and older teens. To book: jennystevensonart@gmail.com

Saturday 22 November:

Coffee Morning

Catholic Church, St Mary's Hall, Church Street. 10am - noon. In aid of Teams4U all money raised to send Shoeboxes filled with gifts to children, families and the elderly in Eastern Europe. Stall selling (jewellery, hair slides, books and toys) and name the bear competition.

Saturday 22 November:

Melbourne u3a Cèilidh

For members and guests at Melbourne Assembly Rooms. 7.00 to 10.30pm. Ticket only: £10 members, £12 guests. Stargazy will be providing the music and a caller from 7.30pm. No expertise necessary, just come along and have fun dancing, watching or both. Licensed bar. Ticket information: www.melbourne-area.u3asite.uk

Sunday 23 November:

Festive Gonk Making Workshop

at Whistlewood Common - 10.30 -1.30 pm. £40 Adult £20 Child 14+

To book a place: www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop

Saturday 29 November: Festive Pen and Watercolour Workshop

with Kate Dawes. Creative Melbourne Gallery, Church Street, Melbourne. 10.30am - 1.30pm. £47.50 per person.

Kate will be showing different pen drawing techniques and how to overlay with 'dry' watercolour to enhance your artwork. You will create an A4 botanical artwork using seasonal foliage and flowers. This relaxed three-hour winter-themed pen and watercolour workshop is suitable for all abilities.  All materials supplied. To book: www.katedawesstudio.com

Sunday 30 November:

Seasonal Reindeer Making Workshop at Whistlewood Common - 10 - 12 pm £27 per Reindeer - Suitable for children 6+

To book a place: www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop

Tuesday 2 December:

Melbourne Community Care Coffee & Company

Melbourne Assembly Rooms, 2 - 4pm.

Thursday 4 December:

Contemporary Wreaths and Festive Decorations

with Jane Bevan. Creative Melbourne Gallery, Church Street, Melbourne. 6pm - 8pm. £40 per person.

Join local artist Jane Bevan for a special evening of Festive creativity, to decorate your home for the holiday.

A wide variety of natural, seasonal materials, foraged from hedgerow, gardens and countryside will be provided. Feel free to bring your own materials too!

Enjoy a glass of fizz and refreshments throughout the evening, so prepare for a real treat! Suitable for beginners. All materials included.

Friday 5 December:

The Friends of Melbourne Parish Church present

A Jazz Christmas Carol with The Alan Barnes Octet

Melbourne Parish Church, Church Square DE73 8JH 7.00 for 7.30pm. Tickets: £15 (£10 under 18s) www.wegottickets.com/event/657732 Kindly sponsored by Alan Staley Building Contractors Ltd.

Friday 5 December:

Melbourne Parish Council

Christmas Evening Market

Melbourne Market Place. Lights turn on at 6.00pm.

Saturday 6 December:

Melbourne Historical Research Group's Archive Room Special Christmas Opening

Plus a display of historical snowy Melbourne photos. Please join us for a mince pie and to see what we're all about.

Melbourne Assembly Rooms - 10am-1pm

Saturday 6 December:

Coffee Morning

Methodist Church Wesley Hall, Potter Street. 10am - noon.

Saturday 6 December:

Seasonal Wreathmaking Workshop at Whistlewood Common - 2 sessions: 11.00 - 12.30pm 1.30 - 3.00 pm

£30 per Wreath. To book a place: www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop

To book a place: www.whistlewoodcommon.org/shop

Sunday 7 December:

Community Christmas Concert and Service

St Mary the Virgin Church, Weston-on-Trent. 5pm. Festive carol favourites, readings, and a performance of Christmas specials by local group 'Off the Record'.

All welcome to join the team after the service for complimentary festive treats and drinks as a thank you for support for St Mary's over the year.

Thursday 11 December:

Christmas Carols Around the Tree

in Melbourne Market Place, 6.30pm. Come and join in the singing accompanied by Melbourne Town Band. Organised by Rotex.

Friday 12 December - Saturday 13 December:

Melbourne Operatic Society proudly presents A Feast of Christmas Cheer

Friday 12 December: Melbourne Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm.

Saturday 13 December: Castle Donington Community Hub, 7.30pm.

Tickets: £10 including wine and yummy mince pies! See ad on P11.

Saturday 13 December: Coffee Morning

Baptist Church Schoolroom, Chapel Street. 10am - noon

Every Tuesday:

Melbourne Community Care Bereavement Group

MSP, Cockshut Lane, Melbourne DE73 8DG 10am -12pm.

Friendly group for anyone affected by a bereavement.

We are happy to include events in this listing, 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.

Council on target with potholes

DERBYSHIRE County Council is on track to clear its pothole backlog, following significant investment in its highways service

Back in April, over 16,000 potholes were waiting to be fixed, the county’s administration has reported

That number was expected to drop below 3,000 by mid-October bringing the service back to typical levels

Since April, more than 26,000 potholes have been repaired Additional improvements have included surface dressing, resurfacing, and large patch repairs on affected roads

Councillor Charlotte Hill, Cabinet Member for Potholes, Highways and Transport, said: “Reducing the high number of potholes has been my top priority since May This achievement is the result of a team effort across the highways service

“We’ve increased the number of pothole repair teams from 22 to 26 and completed over 6,800 large patches to address areas with multiple potholes

“While new potholes continue to be reported by the public and our inspectors, we’re now in a much stronger position to respond quickly and effectively

“We’re currently developing our improvement plan for the next financial year, which will be presented to the council’s cabinet in November ”

With Derbyshire having at one time held the dubious distinction of allegedly being the second worst county for potholes in the country, there has been some confusion over reported numbers of the problem

Earlier in the year a figure of 66,000 potholes had been reported – a total which emerged from a Freedom of Information request

But it is now being reported that the backlog of potholes to be repaired was 17,000 in April of this year

The council has also reported that insurance claims for potholerelated vehicle damage have dropped by nearly 72% compared to the same period last year

Cllr Hill said they had been able to deploy four additional gangs during the summer months to surfacing repairs, to help clear the backlog She also said that they would be moving to “fence to fence” working, focussing not just on the roads, but pavements, signs and hedgerows either side of the road, to make more comprehensive repairs

She said that from April 2026 residents should see the impact, and said all 64 councillors were now able to identify two roads in their division for special attention She had already identified North Street in Melbourne in her area

EAST Midlands Airport has seen an unprecedented period of growth since it launched its cargo development plans in May – with latest figures showing an 11 4 per cent increase since last year

Cargo volumes between May and October this year reached almost 240,000 tonnes, which is close to 25,000 tonnes more than during the same sixmonth period last year

launched by East Midlands Airport in May are designed to meet an estimated 54% increase in demand for its cargo operations over the next two decades

This would see volumes increase from 400,000 tonnes currently to 583,000 tonnes in 2043

ads@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk or call 07584 025 852

And the airport is only just entering what is traditionally the busiest time of year for its cargo operations, with a 63 per cent short-term increase in cargo flight movements expected in the coming weeks, driven by Black Friday, Cyber Monday and pre-Christmas demand

The cargo growth plans

Four plots close to the runway totalling 50 hectares have been earmarked for cargo development which, the airport says, could support more than 21,000 jobs and boost the economy by almost £4bn Since the plans were announced, the airport has welcomed six new cargo airlines –Central Airlines, Atlas Air, Ethiopian Cargo, Saudia Cargo, Etihad Cargo and SF Express –with a seventh on the

Cricket club hands out its honours

WELL over 50 people attended the annual presentation night to celebrate team and individual successes of Ticknall Cricket Club for the season of 2025

The event was held at the Willesley Golf Club, Ashby, where their chef and staff opened the evening with a superb three-course meal delivered to well set tables which made a relaxed and convivial atmosphere for the attendees

The post dinner entertainment was started by the chair of the club, Paul Bunyan, who was pleased at the efforts of all three senior sides, the development team, and the progress and numbers of youngsters now taking part in the junior sections

He stated that Ticknall first team, after promotion, had achieved a very reputable sixth place finish in the premier league and that the experience hopefully may bring an even better result next year Although the second team just avoided relegation Paul was quick to say that this was not a reflection of the effort put in by all concerned and a bit more luck could have meant a very different story

The third team had a successful season and again with a couple of results going their way promotion could have been a possibility

The chair also informed the attendees that Ticknall had been awarded the best pitch in the Premier League, a prestigious award, and thanked all the ground staff for the hard work and dedication in enabling the club to be given this acco-

by David Fox

lade

He concluded his speech by making the first awards of the evening, presenting James Baker and Lucas Ralph of the Development side for the batting and bowling awards respectively

The chair was followed by the captains or representatives of the senior sides to give their reviews of the teams and present each team’s awards as follows:

3rd team – Batting Paul Bunyan, Bowling Dave Tee

2nd team – Batting Joe Jacques, Bowling George Hughes

1st team – Batting Tom Wood, Bowling Tom Wood

The final two awards were given out by Paul Bunyan to young player of the year Harry Foster, and club person of the Year

Jackie Sanders

It all starts again in April only five months to go! Your intrepid reporter cannot wait but will spend the time with very early mornings or night shifts as he spends the dark winter months getting his live cricket all the way from Australia as England attempt to bring that little urn of ashes back where they belong

On behalf of Ticknall Cricket Club may I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year with the resolution for a sunny dry summer for the 2026 season

AFTER a busy summer of tournaments and friendlies against teams from Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire and Nottinghamshire, the Melbourne Dynamo Under 7s Knights and Dragons are enjoying their football in the Derby Junior Football League.

Coaches have reported that the boys are “devel-

oping brilliantly” and working “fantastically well as a team both in defence and attack”

The club has thanked team sponsors Carfulan Group, BMc Engineering and DCB Roofing for the kits, training tops and waterproof jackets that are on proud display each Saturday training session and Sunday match day.

RUGBY TEAMS OFF TO GOOD STARTS

RUGBY in Melbourne has got off to a very strong start this season, now well underway in mid-November

The men’s first XV, who train on Tuesdays and Thursdays, are sitting in third place in the regional 2 league with six wins so far this season and only two losses

October 24 saw a particularly fine victory for the first team against Belgrave

Playing under the lights over the beer festival weekend, Melbourne dominated, ending on a 64-19 final scoreline with four tries for Taylor and seven conversions for Worley

The firsts’ winning ways continued the following week with another strong success against

lower-placed Matlock, which ended up 52-14 in Melbourne’s favour

The seconds, meanwhile, have been putting in an equally strong display this season with a string of victories already under their belt

Starting off the season on the right foot with a win against Castle Donington (26-14), Melbourne’s second XV has so far dropped only one game – against Belper – before going on to win every other encounter in October

November also started off strong for the seconds who were looking particularly comfortable in their match against Nottinghamians with a 71-7 victory, followed the next week with further success

against Long Eaton seconds

As of mid-November, the second XV are also sitting at third spot in the table

The recently re-established ladies’ side is also in cracking form, storming into the league season with an as yet unbroken winning streak

Competing in the Women’s NC 3 Midlands (North), Melbourne won both league games in October with a 28-5 win against Paviors Ladies and a19-7 victory against Doncaster Demons Women II November dawned with a spectacular win for Melbourne against Ashfield Ladies (50-7)

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RESTORATION works to the tune of just over £20,000 have now been completed at the Melbourne Sporting Partnership (MSP) old pavilion – now leaders at the MSP want to hear from any group which might want to use the space

The old pavilion was used by generations of sports players in Melbourne as a changing room before today’s modern facilities were opened in 2016

Having fallen into disrepair Melbourne Parish Council was asked at its October meeting by the sporting partnership if they would fund half the cost of repairs, a request which was granted

With the MSP paying the other half of the bill contractors from NXT Construction spent just over three weeks completing the work

Malcolm Roseburgh, who heads up

MELBOURNE Dynamo FC’s first team continued their climb up the table in October to finish the month sitting in fourth place

They began with a tough away trip to Selston and a Jack Griffiths strike was just as a consolation as Dynamo fell to a 2-1 defeat

A long trip to Bakewell Town ended with the points shared as a Jack Goodband finish made it 1-1 but that was soon forgotten a week later as the first team put a strong Derby Singh Brothers to the sword with a convincing 6-1 home win

Doubles from Tyler Withers and substitute Isaac Nkrumah plus goals from Ollie

CHILDREN at Weston-on-Trent Primary School will be able to wear branded sports kit for the first time after a local company stepped in to offer sponsorship

Two school parents Nici and Jim Skilling from family business Mantair are behind the new kit which children can proudly wear when representing the school at sports tournaments.

School leaders aim for every child at the school to have the opportunity to represent Weston Primary during the year.

School leaders and the Parent, Staff and Friends Association have thanked Mantair for sponsoring the smart new shirts

Pictured are Jim and Nicola Skilling with Weston-on-Trent Primary School children modelling the new shirts.

the MSP’s Business and Operations Committee, said the building is now structurally sound and watertight

He said: “The MSP would be very interested in any organisation or entrepreneur that might be interested in investing in and repurposing the building for either partial or full use Ideally this would be a sport or health use but anything community or commercial could be considered ”

As well as refurbishing the space, the MSP also took the opportunity to take out old and unwanted equipment from inside the pavilion and its surrounding areas

The pavilion can now be used as storage and the sporting partnership is planning to paint the outside walls and tidy up the inside space

The MSP would like to thank Melbourne Parish Council for their £10,000 grant towards the cost of repairs

Malcolm said that without this, the building rescue project could not have gone ahead

Anyone interested in taking on the pavilion can contact Malcolm at maliroseburgh@btinternet com or 07368 116156

Grimshaw and Elliott Dawson completed the rout

Dynamo had their scoring boots on in the final game of October as they travelled to Mansfield Hosiery Mills This time it was Jack Griffiths with a brace along with strikes from Tyler Withers, Jack Goodband and substitute Ben Gowing getting on the scoresheet to complete a good couple of weeks for the team

Dynamo Reserves had a difficult month in the league but there was a cup victory amongst the losses which came away to Holbrook Sports Reserves

The young Melbourne side began October with an entertaining 5-4 away defeat at Sleetmoor Utd with goals from Robin Bent-

ley, Felix Heard, Riley Moore and substitute Charlie Tovell turning out to be just consolations in a high-scoring game

They then travelled to the aforementioned Holbrook with Riley Moore, Thando Mayo and Joe Astle goals claiming a spot in the next round, but a 4-2 away to Ripley Town soon followed, Astle again on the scoresheet along with Amias Hewitt-Wilson

A tough month ended with another close defeat away to Inter Belper with the inform Astle making it three in three with a tidy finish to go with a Tovell finish

However, again they just came up short in a 3-2 loss to leave them lying in eighth place in the league