The days are getting longer, the drinks are getting cooler, & we’ve got events to knock your socks off (figuratively). It’s time to gather, laugh & make memories at your favourite local pub.
Friday, April 4th – Classic Car Club Is Back!
Start your engines and head to the Green because the Classic Car Club is rolling back into town at 4.30 pm! This is a must-see whether you’re a gearhead or just love admiring shiny things. PimpMyFish will be serving food, paired with drinks from our outdoor bar.
Sunday, April 20th - Easter Sunday Celebrations
We’ll be open from 12 pm to 7 pm for food and drinks until 9 pm. Bring the family, enjoy the feast, and celebrate Easter with us.
Monday, April 21st - Grand Monday Opening Drumroll, please… Mondays at the Royal Oak are here! We’re now open every Monday for lunch from 12 to 2.30 pm, with dinner served between 5.30 and 8.30 PM and drinks until 10 PM for those who like to keep the weekend spirit alive just a little longer.
Sunday, April 27th - Legendary Quiz Night
Show off your trivia skills at our lively Quiz Night with Quiz Master Gary! Entry is just £2 per person. All proceeds to Forget me not, Barrington. Food Van Wrapunzel will serve Roast in a Yorkshire pudding from 5-8 pm. Gather your team and put your brainpower to the test!
Sneak Peek into May
The action doesn’t stop there! May will treat you to a spicy Mexican Night and a thrilling Murder Mystery experience. Stay tuned for details because you won’t want to miss the fun.
This month’s cover picture: Holy Trinity Church, North End
Photograph by Kathryn Betts
The opinions expressed in the letters and articles in this magazine are those of the writers, who are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within them.
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Copy should be submitted by email where possible, to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Alternatively, it may be delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT.
The Editor reserves the right to withhold from publication or to shorten if necessary, any article or letter sent to her.
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Editorial
Welcome to the April issue of Meldreth Matters.
I would like to thank Robin Farbridge, David Marsh and Richard Burns for their hard work in producing the March issue while I was on holiday. Having returned from Western Australia just in time for this month’s copy deadline, the temperatures here weren’t quite what I had hoped for but it has been lovely to see some sunshine and to see so many more daffodils around the village thanks to the efforts of the Veg Club members last autumn. Hopefully there is some warmer weather around the corner!
I hope you enjoy reading this month’s magazine. There is lots of news of village groups, events and activities and plenty of opportunities to get involved in village life as we move into spring.
Kathryn
River Mel Footpath
On Saturday 8th March a group of local volunteers together with the 1st Orwell Scout Group (which meets in Melbourn) spread fresh wood chippings along the path by the River Mel. This is the second time the Scouts have done this for the village and without their efforts and the support of local volunteers, this much loved path would become a very muddy and unpleasant track.
The Meldreth Footpath team would like to thank the Scouts, led by Sarah Helme, for their hard work. We would also like to thank Alan Tobin for providing the wood chippings and for transporting them to key points along the path.
Martin Berry
Moorlands Court
Local Community Services
Homecare – our fully trained carers visit you in your home.
Si ng service – a visit from our experienced staff gives family carers me for themselves.
Day Centre – based at Moorlands Court, with a friendly and sociable atmosphere and includes a tasty 2 course lunch.
Meals service – nutri ous, hot lunch me meal delivered to you.
Housekeeping – we do those jobs which you can no longer manage, from cleaning and ironing, to bed changing and shopping.
To find out more, just call us at Moorlands Court on 01763 260564, or email : denise.taylor@chsgroup.org.uk
Early Spring 2025 in Melwood www.melwood.org.uk
The year started with a very mixed weather pattern, frequently wet and sometimes very windy, but with little frost. The usual show of snowdrops was at its best in mid-February, roughly as it has been for very many years. Some isolated groups of bulbs made particularly strong growth, these being predominantly of the larger species, Galanthus plicatus. Ten years ago, there was just one clump of Winter Aconites in the wood but in more recent years seedlings have started to appear quite widely and one of the first has developed into a nice clump over a period of three to four years. In the not too distant future the white of the snowdrops may be accompanied by some nice areas of yellow.
The strongest of the gales took its toll on three of the larger Ash trees in the wood, uprooting them to the point where they tangled with the upper branches of adjacent trees. This left the trunks at an angle of about 45 degrees and a potential hazard, but not too serious, as they were clear of the surrounding paths used by the public. Examination of the broken roots revealed quite extensive rot, so combined with evidence of ash dieback disease in the upper branches and down the trunks, their loss was inevitable and emphasises why we need the public to stick to the paths around the wood. We were shocked to find that the leaning trunks had been used by children to build den structures with long poles, like the frames of a bivouac (pictured right). The risk associated with these trees was therefore elevated to urgent and the trees were felled by the group at the February working party. The long poles were returned to the path edges, from whence many had presumably been taken. Damage to emerging bulbs is another reason for keeping the centre of the wood clear of visitors at this time of year.
As it becomes clear where loss of ash trees is opening the canopy and letting more light onto the wood, we can better judge the best positions for new trees, to maintain the structure of the wood. A Lime tree planted some years ago is doing well as are two Hornbeams, a Crab Apple and a Bird Cherry planted more recently. A bare-rooted Oak has been planted this year, but our two previous attempts with potted Oaks have been a failure and so the new tree was planted on the opposite side of the wood. Other species of local native trees are being grown on from seedlings to provide saplings for the future.
continued ...
The birds in the wood are increasingly active as the breeding season gets underway and we keep hoping for something new and exciting, such as Buzzards or Kites, but the wood is too busy for shy species. Great Spotted Woodpeckers have used the wood previously and can be heard in the wood regularly at the present time. Chiffchaffs that overwintered in the UK were seen in scrub by the River Mel in February but have probably now migrated east to their breeding areas, to be replaced very soon with migrants from the south that will breed here. Their characteristic “chiff chaff” call will soon be heard in the wood and for me is another definite marker of spring. A guided bird walk has been arranged for early May with a leading local expert from the British Trust for Ornithology [see page 9 of this issue] and will be advertised more widely nearer the time.
The very warm spell in early March has tempted a few butterflies out of hibernation and predictably, the Brimstone was the first species to be seen in the wood. It quite likes to hibernate in dense ivy, of which the wood has plenty. The Red Admiral often turns up early in the sunshine of the meadow but has not appeared so far this year and in the back garden, the Brimstone is also the only species to have shown up so far. Warm nights also tempted a few moth species to hatch from over-wintering pupae and although only five species have so far visited the garden moth trap, they may produce a few caterpillars on trees and bushes in the wood by May, when bluetits are feeding their young. The attractive Oak Beauty moth (pictured) was probably the best of the bunch and definitely less common than the others.
We hope to be able to plant more wild flowers in the wood later in March, when we would expect the soil to be warming up but still fairly moist. We have a reasonable stock of primroses, which should do well, if we remember to water them until established and if the rabbits and deer don’t make a meal of them.
Foxgloves did reasonably well last year and are not troubled by grazing. We will keep an eye on the meadow to see what is developing naturally and where extra cuts will enable short-growing species to flourish.
Jim Reid
Melwood Conservation Group
A Meldreth Garden
In April, our gardens are full of life, colour and vivacity; we can again venture out and get on with some proper gardening. My stars of the moment include Euphorbia griffithii ‘fireglow’ red flower bracts, cushion spurge Euphorbia epithymoides, epimediums, Cowslips Primula veris and English bluebells Hyacinthoides non-scripta, white flowered honesty Lunaria annua var. albiflora, Wallflowers Erysimum ‘ivory white’, candy tuft, periwinkle, pulmonaria, fritillaria a range of cultivars including the snake’s head fritillary Fritillaria meleagris, avens
Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw' and Geum ‘Georgenberg'. Fruit trees blossom in profusion, including wild blackthorn, apple and cherry blossom in our hedgerows. At the end of the month, I will sow seeds of tender annuals like zinnias, morning glory Ipomoea purpurea, Mexican sunflower Tithonia rotundifolia and the climber Chilean glory vine Eccremocarpus scaber, a half hardy perennial, grown as an annual.
April is the key month in the vegetable plot as soil temperatures rise and light levels increase. Most of my direct seed sowing awaits the soil warming up, this being clearly indicated by the emergence of weed seedlings. You can steal a march on April sowings by using a propagator or windowsill, growing plants on in the greenhouse or cold frame. They can then be planted out when the plants are a suitable size and the weather better; this takes a deal of time and effort. Remember to grow what you like to eat, it is pointless growing vegetables that are not table worthy for you. Some vegetables require warmth to grow, including all of the curbit family, cucumbers, melons, courgette and pumpkins, also French climbing beans, etc. Crops in the allotment that are moribund because of the cold are prey to pests and diseases, especially slugs and snails. I start curbits off in the greenhouse towards the end of the month. The first early potatoes, Swift, were planted out in the week of St Patrick's Day, 17th March, and I will now plant out second earlies and main crop.
It's a great time to renew, cut back and replant garden herbs that have suffered over the winter or overgrown their location. In time, perennial herbs can become sprawling, and they do not cut back to old wood and never look good after severe pruning. Most herbs are surprisingly tough and grow well as long as they have sufficient drainage; the increasing day length and warmth sees them growing away fast, so they look, smell and taste good. For rosemary I took some cuttings last Autumn, and they will replace the old plants. For White hyssop I am growing replacement plants from seeds taken last year. The white flowered, variegated and purple leafed sages will be offered up for softwood cuttings to replace the current woody plants and to provide backups.
Many plants grown from collected seed do not breed true to type. This applies to annual poppies, delphiniums, aquilegias, hollyhocks, dahlias, hellebores, etc, and it is important to be ruthless in plant selection to keep only the best and brightest. My annual self-seeded poppies retain their colour and stature through rigorous removal of pale and muddy flowered examples.
Spring flowering shrubs need to be pruned once their flower display is over. Cut the oldest woody stems right down to the base, remove the thin weakest stems, and leave last season’s strongest branches that are healthy and vigorous. Do this for forsythia, philadelphus, weigelia, flowering currant, etc.
Take time out to just sit and enjoy your garden.
Iain McPhee mcpheia1@gmail.com
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Melwood Bird Walk: 10th May
Melwood Conservation Group invites you to our 2025 Bird Walk in Melwood, your Local Nature Reserve, on Saturday 10th May. Meet in the lay-by opposite Holy Trinity Church at 8.00am.
The walk will be led by Mike Foley, a British Trust for Ornithology Volunteer and we will be looking for birds and bird activity in the wood and along footpath no. 6. Please remember to bring your binoculars.
There is no charge for this walk, although donations would be welcome.
Bruce Huett
Melwood Conservation Group (01763) 260358
www.meldrethhistory.org.uk
Over 720 pages on Meldreth, past and present
Local Wise Crafters
We are meeting every week on Thursdays from 10.30am onwards at Eternit Sports and Social Club. There are now over 30 members, which is wonderful!
Each week there is a warm, social atmosphere. We work on a variety of crafts including knitting, crochet, painting, paper and others. It has been refreshing to see the group establishing friendships, encouragement and also sharing their knowledge. Several of our members are participating voluntarily in producing poppies for Meldreth war memorial.
Local Wise Crafters have a Facebook group showing some of our members’ work. Please feel free to contact me for further details. We welcome everyone.
Julie Wilson 07772 738913 email julawil66@gmail.com
Melbourn and District Photographic Club melbournphotoclub.com
We are now entering the final month before our summer recess. The programme for April is as follows:
1st PDI of the Year, judged by Naomi Saul 8th Club AGM & Prizegiving
Meetings are held weekly from 7.30pm - 9.30pm on Tuesdays at Foxton Village Hall from September to April. The Club has a diverse membership, with roughly equal numbers of men and women, and has a friendly atmosphere. We welcome new members, whatever their ability. For details about the Club and to see some of our work, visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com. If you are interested in joining, we are happy for you to join up to two meetings free of charge before deciding.
Peter North Secretary
Meldreth Bowls Club
www.meldrethbowlsclub.co.uk
Did you manage to catch on television any of the World Championship Bowls from Potters Resorts in Great Yarmouth a few weeks ago? I wonder where these world class bowlers started their bowls careers. I’m willing to bet that they visited their local bowls club on an open day or were taken along by a friend, and having had a go found that they enjoyed the experience. We all have to start somewhere.
Should you like to visit us, Meldreth Bowls Club formally invites anybody who would like to ‘have a go’, either on our Green Opening Day at 2.00pm on Saturday 19th April, or on our Public Open Day on Saturday 3rd May, also at 2.00pm. If you are unable to attend on these dates you are welcome to come along to one of our weekly Roll Up sessions, which take place on Tuesday mornings from 10.00am to midday, starting on 22nd April, and on Saturday afternoons from 2.00 to 4.00pm, starting on 26th April. Each includes a tea/ coffee break half way through. Please wear flat shoes and we will supply the rest.
One of the most attractive aspects about enjoying lawn bowls is that it doesn’t matter how young or old you are; some of our active older members are in their 90s. Also it is a particularly sociable activity, and each game can be followed by a drink at our club bar or a welcome hot drink, both accompanied by refreshments. We have currently just over 40 members, some of whom are social members only and don’t play in league matches. We play in three leagues and always seem to do well in each.
Our reputation is one of being a friendly and welcoming club. You can find more information at www.meldrethbowlsclub.co.uk, or by giving me a call on (01763) 262116 or 01985 438642.
We look forward to meeting you.
David Rich, Secretary,
Meldreth Bowls Club
Richard Burns
Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group
We are a small and friendly group who meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings commence at 7.45pm and are held at either ASCH, Melbourn or the Holy Trinity Meeting Room, Meldreth. Meetings last about one and a half hours. We either have a speaker or some in-house entertainment. A charge of £2 is made to cover expenses and we are able to donate to the charity pot. This year we are supporting The Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust. We then have refreshments and the opportunity to chat with one another.
In March, Pat Rivers-Latham, one of our members, will have spoken to us about her hospital work, in which she was instrumental in Health Advising and Contact Tracing. This month’s meeting is at 7.45pm on Tuesday 22nd April in the Holy Trinity Meeting Room, Meldreth and the subject is CPR Defibrillation.
If you require any information about our group, or a lift to a meeting, telephone one of our Committee members: Diane Blundell (01763) 221415, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Angela Leach (01763) 262793, Mary Bailey (01763) 220171 or Janet Backer (01763) 221492.
Diane Blundell
Eastern Area Young Farmers Challenge
In April, Eastern Area Young Farmers will be attempting a challenge to raise money for YANA –You Are Not Alone (a rural mental health support charity) and NFFN – Nature Friendly Farming Network (a farmer-led membership organisation that supports farmers who want to restore the balance between farming and nature).
We will be taking on the challenge as part of a team with Eastern Area Young Farmers, driving to the furthest points north, east, south and west in England and Scotland in under 48 hours, covering just over 2,000 miles, in a car worth up to £500. So far, we have managed to raise just over £2,000 through getting people to sign the car and also local businesses to support the challenge.
We have a target of £5,000 and if you would like to support us through the GoFundMe page we have set up, it would be greatly appreciated. Please visit https://gofund.me/4c33b5bf.
Tom Foulger
Home-Start
www.hsrsc.org.uk
Easter Market, Meldreth Village Hall, 10.00am – 3.00pm, Sunday 6th April
Home-Start will be running the refreshment stall at the Easter Market being held on 6th April. Come along and treat yourself to a savoury or sweet treat. There will be many great stalls offering different items for sale.
Literary Lunch, Tuesday 29th April
The Old Bull, Royston, 12.15-2.15pm
Jude Simpson will be in conversation with author, Ruth Leigh Ruth Leigh is a novelist and freelance writer from East Suffolk, best known for her Isabella M Smugge series. Described as “Austen with added Instagram” by Fran Hill and “funny, smart and insightful” by Paul Kerensa, her work blends sharp social commentary with humour. Ruth has also written A Great Deal of Ingenuity and The Little Book of Unexpected Poetry and is a dynamic speaker.
Tickets cost £15 to include a buffet lunch. To purchase, please call (01763) 262262, email events@hsrsc.org.uk or book online at www.hsrsc.org.uk/ events. Please let us know of any dietary requirements when booking.
Tracy Aggett Fundraising Events Support Manager
Meldreth,
Shepreth
and Foxton Community Rail Partnership
Wildflower Seeding, Meldreth Station Link Path
The wildflower seeding along the new station path will take place on Saturday 5th April from 10.00am. Volunteers much appreciated. Please come with a rake if possible.
Duke of Edinburgh Volunteering, Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Stations
A reminder that the Community Rail Partnership sponsors Duke of Edinburgh and other volunteering opportunities at Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Stations. Please feel free to share with anyone interested.
Susan van de Ven and Sarah Grove
Susanvandeven5@gmail.com
sarahgrove.msfcrp@gmail.com
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Meldreth Primary School
www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk
Spring is well and truly in the air at Meldreth Primary as the warmer weather brings longer days and beautiful sunshine. As always, we have been busy with a whole host of amazing trips, activities and learning experiences. We have made a conscious decision this term to ingratiate ourselves further with the wider Meldreth community and have integrated local areas into our annual curriculum. For example, Upper KS2 have enjoyed the delights of Melwood to build shelters in the style of Ancient Mayans in the rainforest, and our Year 6 cohort delighted the residents of Maycroft with some delicious baked goods.
In addition to this, classes have been enjoying some of the local attractions on school trips. Our Year 1 class enjoyed a spectacular day out and learning experience at Mountfitchet Castle whilst the Year 4 students hopped on the train to Cambridge for a delightful day studying the Ancient Egyptian exhibition. Our fantastic sports teams have also been busy representing us brilliantly in both the local netball tournament, where our teams finished third and fourth after some hard-fought matches, and on the football pitch with a victory over Haslingfield and an excellent game against William Westley.
Daniel Chapman, Assistant Headteacher
MELDRETH MATHS TUTOR
Meldreth Manor School
Sunflower and Gladioli Class Visit to Holy Trinity Church
On 10th February some members of Sunflower and Gladioli classes visited Holy Trinity Church to learn about places of worship. It was warm and airy, with the lovely echo and smells of wood, and stone buildings and candles to give an immediate sensory impact.
We had some lovely preparatory emails with Pat to help make the visit accessible for our students with visual impairments and requiring wheelchairs access. Not only did they think about how to use residual senses to explore features of the church but included our science topic of hard and soft materials into the explorations. These included kneelers, tapestry, and navigating in the unique space.
We were so impressed by the level of thought and warm welcome we received, and the activities they provided for us.
We experienced ringing the bells, smelling flowers and candles, and some incense that was burning at the altar. We also felt what it was like to be in the pews, listening to tunes at various pitches on the organ, and to some well-known songs like Happy Birthday and Jingle Bells for our young people to connect with. One young person even tried to vocalise when she heard Jingle Bells.
There were lots of smiles and engagement throughout the visit and afterwards, talking about it with staff and classmates. We really enjoyed the visit and felt connected to our local church. We would like to say a very heartfelt thank you to Reverend Andrew Birks, Pat, Pauline, Peter and Jayne for their kindness and thought in making our visit so enjoyable and so memorable.
Meldreth Manor School
Things for Children and Families To Do in April
Thursday 3rd - Monday 21st April, 10.00am - 6.00pm
Join Flora the Fox on a quest through the garden to find lost nature words then claim an Easter prize. For ages 3+. Free trail map but usual garden admission fee applies.
Friday 4th April, 9.30am - 11.30am
STEMtots - Dinosaurs
Trinity Centre, Cambridge Science Park, Milton Rd CB4 0FN
Hands-on sessions for pre-schoolers - free a dinosaur frozen in ice, dig for dinosaur bones and study footprints and fossils. Child and adult £9.50. Extra child £5. Book on www.cambridgesciencecentre.org.
Saturday 5th - Monday 21st April
Easter Bunny Trail, Royston town centre
Free trail for ages 11 and under. Find the ten bunnies hiding in Royston shop windows - you may win a prize. Entry form from www.roystonfirst.com.
Sundays 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th April, 11.45am - 12.30pm
The Treble Makers, St John the Baptist Church, Royston SG8 7BP
Aged 6 - 13 and love to sing? All welcome. www.roystonparishchurch.org.uk.
Join a Natural History Museum journey to the time of dinosaurs - watch them come to life on the stage, find out about fossils and how earth has changed. For ages 3+. Tickets from www.cornex.co.uk £20.50.
Wild in the Woods, Cambourne Nature Reserve CB23 6BJ
Try various outdoor art activities - perhaps clay, stick sculptures, songs etc. Ages 5 - 11. £7.50 per child. Book on www.wildlifebcn.org.
Friday 18th April,
Easter Paw-ty, 10.00am - 4.00pm
National Horseracing Museum, Palace St, Newmarket CB8 8EP
Celebrate Easter with dog-themed events, including a dog show, displays, creative activities, stalls and an Easter trail. £5 adults, £3 children. Dog show entry £2. www.visitcambridge.org.
Compiled by Hilary Crawforth
Girlguiding Trip to Mexico
Did you know there are five world guiding centres? They are Pax Lodge in London, Our Chalet in Switzerland, Our Cabana in Mexico, Sangam in India and Kusafiri in Africa (currently in Ghana until 2026).
I am a Young Leader at 1st Meldreth Brownies, as well as a Ranger at Pulsatilla (1st Royston) Rangers and last summer I was lucky enough to go to Our Chalet, which was an amazing experience. I had to go through a county selection process and once I had earned my place, I had to fundraise £1500 to pay the costs. It was a fantastic experience because we got to partake in a range of activities and also to meet other guides and rangers from the UK, Canada and Malta. This opportunity helped me to become more confident when meeting new people, trying out new activities, exploring new places and making new friends.
Last October, I attended a regional selection day with a group of girls from Eastern England and I have now been selected to go to Mexico in the summer of 2026.
We are going for two weeks. The first week will be spent at Our Cabana, which is located in Cuernavaca, Mexico, and we will be able to meet girl guides and girl scouts from other countries. Whilst at Our Cabana (the world centre), we will also take part in a service project (possibly helping members of the local community). The second week will be spent in Mexico City, where we will have the opportunity to visit many different famous sites in and around the city, with plans to visit Aztec pyramids and temples, as well as The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, which is a world heritage site with over 100 square miles of canals.
I need to fundraise £3,000 by May 2026. I have currently raised £1,114 through different fayres and craft markets, by selling crocheted and knitted covers for chocolates, as well as hot chocolate cones. Last Christmas, I made almost £400 by selling Christmas themed chocolate covers for Terry's chocolate oranges, Lindors, and Ferrero Rochers.
I will be at Meldreth Village Hall Easter market on 6th Sunday April and the Melbourn Fete in June. In the meantime, if you would like to donate to my fundraiser my JustGiving page you can scan the QR code shown here. Thank you.
Aliya Lees
Things to do in April
Here are some things happening in April in the local area. To let us know about any future event or activity please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.
Tuesday 1st April, 2.00pm to 4.00pm
Drawing Group
Royston Museum, 5 Lower King St, Royston SG8 5AL
Using the museum as an inspiration, learn techniques and create artwork in this small, friendly group. £5 per person. Tea/coffee and materials provided. All abilities welcome. For information www.roystonmuseum.org.uk.
Saturday 5th April, 7.00pm
Bach’s St Matthew Passion sung by Royston Choral Society
St John the Baptist Church, Royston SG8 7BP
One of the greatest choral works, from the sounding of its first E Minor chord, a dramatic and heart wrenching musical journey ensues. The chorus is central to the drama and sets the mood throughout. With musical director Andrew O’Brien and full orchestra. Tickets £22, under 18s £1 from www.roystonchoralsoc.org.uk, (01920) 822723, on the door or from a choir member. An Easter-time classic.
Sunday 6th April, 9.00am to 3.00pm
Barkway Antiques and Vintage Fair - Rural Magpie
Community Centre, Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden CB10 1NS
Antiques, vintage, crafts and retro treasures including jewellery, old and new. Admission £1. Free parking. Refreshments available. www.ruralmagpie.co.uk.
Sunday 6th April, 7.00pm
Pure Clean Water - the Chalk Streams Crisis in Greater Cambridgeshire
Haslingfield Village Hall, High Street, Haslingfield CB23 1JP
A free screening of an award-winning film about the water emergency facing the Cambridge area including our local villages and what can be done about it. Suitable for ages 12+. Please book on www.eventbrite.co.uk. Refreshments available. Donations to local water conservation work welcomed.
Monday 7th April, 7.30pm
Michael Rosen - Getting Through It - On Love, Loss and Mortality
Poetry legend Michael Rosen in a powerful one man show talks about the loss of his 18 year old son from meningitis and how he himself spent 48 days in intensive care with Covid-19. Tickets from £28, visit www.cornex.co.uk.
The talented, local singer and trumpet player performs a varied programme of music in a concert organised by Royston Rotary Club. Proceeds in aid of Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust. Tickets £15. www.roystonrotary.ktckts.com.
Sunday 13th April, 5.00pm
Shropshire and Other Lads: A E Housman in Words and Music
Some of the best-loved poetry in the English language set to music, together with readings of the poems and piano music inspired by them. Tickets £25, under 25 £10. Call (01223) 849004 or from ace@staplefordgranary.org.uk.
Sunday 13th and Sunday 27th, 10.00am to 4.00pm (last entry 3.30pm)
Great Chishill Windmill Open Days
57-67 Barley Road, Great Chishill, Royston SG8 8SD
One of only 7 open trestle post windmills in the UK. Guided tours by friendly volunteers. Free entry with donations welcome. Scenic views - why not bring a picnic?. For more information visit www.greatchishillwindmill.com.
Monday 14th April, 10.00am to 12.00pm
Tour of Jesus College Grounds and Wildlife, Jesus College, Jesus Lane, Cambridge CB5 8BL
Two hour, guided walk around the beautiful college grounds. Tickets £3 for Wildlife Trust members, £4 non-members. Limited places so book in advance on www.ect@cam.ac.uk. Meet at housekeeper’s lodge on Jesus Lane.
Wednesday 23rd April, 5.00am to 6.30am
Dawn Chorus Walk, Grantchester Meadows, Cambridge CB3 9ND
Get up early for a warden-guided walk to listen to the wonderful spring dawn chorus, learn some of the birdsongs and look for wildlife along the banks of the River Cam. Free event, suggested donation £3. No need to book. Meet on the Meadows near the entrance to the Red Lion in Grantchester.
Wednesday 23rd April, 10.00am to 12.00pm
Wandlebury Wildflowers in Spring
Wandlebury Country Park, Gog Magog Hills, Cambridge CB22 3AE
Gentle, guided walk to learn about spring wildflowers at Wandlebury with a knowledgeable guide. Free event, suggested donation £3. Book at www.cambridgeppf.org or just turn up. Meet at large noticeboard in car park.
Wednesday 23rd to Sunday 27th April
Cambridge Literary Festival Spring 2025
Various times and locations across City of Cambridge
Talks for all ages in some beautiful venues. Always popular so book early. For full programme and ticket information see wwwcambridgeliteraryfestival.com.
Friday 25th and Saturday 26th April, 2.00pm to 4.00pm
Afternoon Tea in aid of Arthur Rank Hospice Charity
Bring your family and friends for a delicious afternoon tea in beautiful surroundings while raising money for the Cambridge hospice. For more information and to book your place visit www.arhc. £32.50 per person.
Compiled by John Crawforth
Meldreth Village D
10.00-11.00am Functional Fitness
10.00-12.00 History Group
11.00am-12.00 TP Pilates
1.00-3.00pm Hope Active (see page 27)
10.00am Said Communion
10.00-11.00am Functional Fitness
11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates
9.00am-12.00 Food Bank
12.00-3.00pm Village Hub
12.30pm Lent Lunch £6, Holy Trinity Church Meeting Room
1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics
7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates
9.00am-12.00 Food Bank
12.00-3.00pm Village Hub
12.30pm Lent Lunch £6, Holy Trinity Church Meeting Room
1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics
7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates
9.00am-12.00 Food Bank
10.00am Said Communion
12.00-3.00pm Village Hub
1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics
7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates
9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group
1.30-2.45pm Lift Off Choir
6.00-7.30pm Brownies
6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise
7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point Pilates
6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise
7.30-8.20pm TP Pilates
7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
10.00-1.15pm
Easter Monday
10.00-11.00 Functional Fitness
11.00am-12.00 TP Pilates
4.00-6.30pm Street Dance for Children (multi classes)
Church services, Women’s Group meetings, bell ringing and FOHT events are held in Holy Trinity Ch Food Bank & Village Hub are in the Community Room in Elin Way. Wise Local Crafters meet at Et
10.00am Wildflower Seeding, Station Path (see page 14)
9.45am Said Eucharist 10.00am-3.00pm Easter Market (see back cover)
9.30am Slimming World
10.00am Good Friday All Age Worship
12.00 Good Friday Walk of Witness from Holy Trinity to All Saints’ Melbourn
9.30am Slimming World
7.30pm Gin Tasting, Meldreth Primary School (see page 16)
2.00pm Green Opening Day, Meldreth Bowls Club (see page 11)
8.00am Sung Eucharist for Palm Sunday
nformation on Village Hall classes or events sit www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk
2.00-4.00pm Dementia Memory Café
9.45am Sung Easter Eucharist
Refuse Collections
Black bins: 8th, 22nd Blue & green bins: 1st, 15th, 29th Getremindersonyourmobile: downloadtheBinCollectionsapp
urch. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. MLHG & Parish Council meetings, Hope Active, ernit Sports & Social Club. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.
Letter to the Editor
The British Queen
We purchased the British Queen village pub almost fifteen years ago. We have worked tirelessly over the years to grow and improve the facilities for the benefit of the village. We have hosted the Christmas carols in the tent and around the fire, raising money for local charities. The pub golf team have raised enough funds to sponsor and name six guide dogs for the blind. We have hosted village street parties, royal jubilee and royal weddings over our time. We supply wood chippings and maintain the river walk pathway through the pub land, along with local volunteers and boy scouts. We have sponsored teenagers to enable them to travel to Africa to carry out voluntary work, we have donated money to the village school for the swimming pool restoration. We hold a weekly meat raffle on a Sunday at 5.00pm, with all proceeds, again, going to local charities. We have invested heavily in the business, employing seventeen staff members, nearly all from the village or Melbourn. We have built four letting rooms, a private dining area, upgraded the kitchen, built a shop, etc. The list for the two of us is endless.
We have applied to South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) for eight selfbuild plots on the land at the rear of the pub. This may come as a concern to some local residents, but in order to ensure the pub’s survival in this economic climate, support from the village is essential. The funds raised by the plots will ensure the doors to the British Queen remain open.
We have also applied to SCDC for a coffee shop and outside toilet facilities to be constructed, but without adapting and diversifying to raise funds, these projects cannot go ahead.
So in conclusion, we would ask you to support the village pub with our future projects, as we have supported the village for all these years. Many thanks.
Sue & Alan Tobin
Meldreth Food Bank
The Food Bank currently supports up to 24 Meldreth families
Please continue putting donations in our collection boxes, talk to the Food Bank team every Tuesday from 9.00am - 12 noon at Elin Way Community Centre, contact the Treasurer Roger James at roger@rogerjames.net or donate to MCCS. Sort code 30-99-50. Account No. 25558260.
Thank You
Village Agents at Cambridgeshire ACRE
Did you know that Cambridgeshire ACRE has Village Agents working in Meldreth?
Cambridgeshire ACRE supports local residents through a team of Village Agents who provide help, support and solutions for people’s health and social care by connecting them with wider support available in their community and beyond.
Our Village Agents are based in Community Hubs that operate across Cambridgeshire and regularly attend Meldreth Community Hub on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12.00 to 3.00pm in the Community Room, Elin Way. They’re independent and provide a free service that is completely confidential.
Our Village Agents can support residents with a number of things such as bringing health services to your community, supporting you to book health related appointment, help with cost-of -living information, supporting you to access services specific to your individual needs or linking you with your local foodbank and helping you apply for vouchers. The list is not exhaustive!
If you are a Meldreth resident and are interested in learning more about Village Agents and Cambridgeshire ACRE’s community wellbeing work you can contact me on 07484053089 or email angela.stibbs@cambsacre.org.uk or contact Rachel Mason on 01353 865025 or email rachel.mason@cambsacre.org.uk.
Cambridgeshire ACRE welcomes self-referrals from people who would like the support of a Village Agent. Professionals working with individuals who would benefit from locally based, lower-level support are also welcome to make referrals via our Village Agent Referral Form at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ village_agent_referral.
Cambridgeshire ACRE is a charity dedicated to supporting and strengthening rural communities, working alongside residents and groups to help improve the places, services and assets that are important to them. It drives positive change to improve people’s lives and tackle rural disadvantage for those living and working in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Further information on the work of Cambridgeshire ACRE can be found at www.cambsacre.org.uk
Why not come along to the Meldreth Hub for free refreshments and a chance to socialise? If you’re new to the hub, let us know and I will be happy to accompany you on your initial visit, as we know it can be daunting first time.
Angela Stibbs Village Agent Cambridgeshire
Acre
Meldreth Food Bank
Your support has enabled us to keep the Food Bank going since 2022, so thank you. Help is still needed. Each week we help up to 24 Meldreth families with basic provisions and your donations of food and money make this possible. Collection points are at One Stop, Meldreth Church and 62 High Street. Or please pop in to the Community Room in Elin Way on a Tuesday morning - you’ll have a warm welcome from our team of helpers. Even better, set up a regular payment to MCCS - contact Roger for details at roger@rogerjames.net.
For more information on the Food Bank contact Jo on 07572 443522.
Hilary Crawforth Meldreth Food Bank
Thank You
David and Lesley Hollamby have helped with the Meldreth Food Bank since the day it started in Elin Way. They are now moving away from the village and we wish them well. We shall miss Lesley’s organisational skills - she kept our shelves in good order! - and David’s links with so many people in the village. They have both worked hard to help all those who come to the Food Bank, not just with food but also with advice and practical matters. Thank you both and good luck. from all at Meldreth Food Bank
Activities in Elin Way Community Room
A charity interest company called Hope Active is hosting sessions in community rooms across Cambridgeshire, including Meldreth. The sessions are for anyone over the age of 60 and take place on the first Monday of every month in the Community Room in Elin Way from 1.00pm to 3.00pm.
Come along for some tea and a chat, various activities such as board games, arts and crafts and anything else you can think of for us! We would love to meet you! For more details, email active@hopeagainst.org.
Isabella Hope Active
MM is Available in Colour Online
To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters
Melbourn Hub
www.melbournhub.co.uk
We have lots going on at Melbourn Hub in April, including a very special Easter Eggstravaganza, on Thursday 17th April - see below for more details. Please note that we will be open on Good Friday (18th April), and then closed for the rest of the Easter weekend (19th-21st April inclusive). The library will be closed from 18th-21st April inclusive. Our artist for the month of April will be Debra Manning.
You can find out more about all we offer at www.melbournhub.co.uk.
Special for April
Thursday 17th April, 10.00am - 2.00pm - Easter Eggstravaganza
Join us for a day of family fun with an Easter trail, raffle, crafts and egg decorating competition. Keep an eye on our website and social media for more details.
New Monthly Events Starting in April
Wednesday 2nd April, 10.00am-12.00pm - The Women in Business Network
The Women in Business Network (WIBN) is pleased to announce the launch of a new group for South West Cambridgeshire. Our aim is to bring together women from a wide variety of different professions who are keen to meet likeminded women and support the development of each others businesses in a safe and supportive environment. You can register for the next meeting at wibn.co.uk/ page/South-West-Cambridgeshire-Networking-Group. For further details on WIBN membership please contact Amy Wilkes on 07516 092698 or email amy.wilkes@wibn.co.uk.
Monday 14th April, 10.00am-12.00pm - Tea and Sign
Practise your sign language skills with a cuppa. For more information, contact Sally at bainessally@hotmail.com.
Our Regular Monthly Events
Every Tuesday - Lunch Club
A weekly social gathering for older people to meet and enjoy the company of others, over a two course subsidised, meal. Lunch Club is currently full but if you would like to join our waiting list, please contact Melbourn Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@melbournhub.co.uk.
Every Wednesday - Citizens Advice – 9.30am -11.30am
No need to book, just drop-in! Citizens Advice offer pre-booked appointments in the afternoon. Melbourn Hub is unable to make these bookings for you so please contact Citizens Advice directly on 07469 517912.
Every Friday - Relate Counselling – 9.00am-12.00pm
Offering relationship, autism and personal counselling. Melbourn Hub is unable to make these bookings. To book a session, please telephone Relate on
(01302) 347886 or email counselling@relatecambridge.org.uk. Melbourn Hub is unable to make these bookings.
Every Friday – Storytime – 10.00am - 10.30am Offering stories and songs for the under 5’s. No need to book.
Don’t forget you can always see the full range of events and services we offer by visiting our website: www.melbournhub.co.uk.
Linsey Craike on behalf of Melbourn Hub
Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch
Last month, we were delighted to welcome two officers from our local neighbourhood policing team to talk to us about rogue trading. The talk was hosted at Meldreth Village Hub and it was great to see a good turnout from both regular Hub users and some extra visitors too. We hope this will be the first of many collaborations between Neighbourhood Watch and other community groups.
The officers’ talk covered many areas, from doorstep traders selling their wares at over-inflated prices while potentially scouting out properties, unscrupulous traders using pressure sales, befriending techniques to prey on people’s good natures, courier fraud, bank fraud and even romance fraud.
The overriding messages from the talk were as follows:
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Your money is YOURS and only YOU can decide what to do with it.
Never rush into a financial decision. If you are unsure, say you will take time to think it over, and then discuss it with a trusted friend, relative or support group.
You don’t have to answer the door to anybody. You can use a door-chain or speak from an upstairs window if you wish.
If a trader is genuine, they will have no objection to you getting quotes from other suppliers, or to you getting back to them at a time when it suits you.
If you have a housing provider, speak to them before agreeing to any repairs from others.
If you cannot get rid of someone at your door and you feel scared or intimated, phone 999.
To report suspicious behaviour you can also use the police non-emergency number (101) or use the ‘report’ section on https://www.cambs.police.uk. You can also contact Trading Standards if appropriate.
If you have made a mistake and parted with money against your will or your better judgment, do not be afraid to admit it, report it and seek help. Nobody will judge you.
Keep up to date with the latest scams, for example via TV or Which magazine, etc.
Consider installing deterrents such as camera doorbells (even fake ones!), ‘Beware of the Dog’ signs and so on. The Bobby Scheme (https:// thebobbyscheme.org) is a charitable organisation that offers advice and practical help to the elderly, vulnerable and disabled in making their homes more secure.
You can get involved with your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme by following our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/meldrethnhw or by signing up as a Neighbourhood Watch member (it’s free!) at ourwatch.org.uk or by contacting me direct.
Little Hands Nursery School The Moor, Melbourn
A Private Nursery School specialising in quality care & preschool education for the under fives High staff to child ratio, individual child centred planning & learning, Flexible booking system for the 08.00am –5.30pm nursery day. Optional holiday clubs available, dedicated baby room for children under two We accept nursery funding giving 15 & 30 hours/week of free funded nursery for all 3 and 4 year olds & eligible 2 year olds
For further information contact Sharon Tutty,nursery manager on 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com
Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk
SINCLAIR ELECTRICAL
… Blood Oranges
This month we showcase oranges, a fruit which works well in both sweet and savoury dishes. There are two main types of oranges: sweet oranges and bitter (Seville) oranges. The former can be thick- or thin- skinned, with or without seeds, and have sweet-tasting orange or red-flecked flesh. Bitter oranges have aromatic dimpled skin with very bitter pith and very sour, pale-orange flesh. They always contain seeds. If you can get blood oranges that are in season now even better!
Blood Orange Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
2 blood oranges zested
200g butter softened, plus extra for the tin
200g light brown soft sugar
4 eggs
125g plain flour
75g polenta or cornmeal
2 teaspoons baking powder
100g natural yogurt
Method
Carefully remove the pith from the zested oranges, being careful to keep them whole. Slice into thin rounds, picking out and discarding the pips. Set aside.
Heat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Butter and line the base of a 23cm loosebottomed cake tin with baking parchment. Put the tin on a baking sheet, then arrange the orange slices in the base, overlapping slightly to cover as much of it as possible.
Beat the butter, sugar and zest together until pale and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, folding in a couple of spoonfuls of flour between each addition to prevent the mixture from curdling. Fold in the remaining flour, polenta and baking powder followed by the yogurt. If the mixture seems a little dry, add 2-3 tbsp milk. Bake for 35-40 mins until a skewer comes out clean. Serve in slices. Will keep chilled for up to three days.
Warm Jerusalem Artichoke, Feta and Blood Orange Salad
Prep: 15 minutes Cook: 50 minutes Serves 4 - 6 as a side
Ingredients
750g Jerusalem artichokes scrubbed and quartered
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 blood oranges plus juice of 1 (about 2 1/2 tbsp)
2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon clear honey
50g blanched hazelnuts very roughly chopped
1 teaspoon cumin seeds lightly crushed
100g feta crumbled
25g pack flat-leaf parsley roughly chopped
Method
Heat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Toss the artichokes, olive oil and half the orange juice in a large roasting tin. Season well, and roast for 45 mins, turning halfway through, until tender and turning golden.
Meanwhile, use a serrated knife to remove the skin and pith from the remaining oranges, then segment the flesh or cut into thin wheels. Put the sherry vinegar, remaining orange juice, the extra virgin olive oil and honey in a jug and whisk to combine. Season to taste.
Scatter the nuts and cumin over the artichokes and roast for another 5 minutes until the nuts are just golden and the cumin aromatic. Remove from the oven, cool briefly, then gently fold in the orange, feta, parsley and dressing. To serve pile onto a platter.
Jane O’Hagan
Melbourn & District Warden Scheme
Supporting people in Melbourn, Meldreth, Shepreth, Whaddon, Barrington, Harston, Hauxton, Orwell, Grantchester, Haslingfield & Foxton
Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour?
What is the service?
We offer twice weekly visits and daily phone calls (Monday to Friday) to support elderly or mobility impaired residents in their own homes by building a friendship and helping prevent social isolation. We can carry out errands such as local shopping, collecting prescriptions, paying bills or going to the Post Office so people can remain supported and independent at home. We can also help couples or those living with their family. We are also trained to support people living with dementia.
Who provides the services?
Mobile wardens, who have all been carefully selected for their friendliness and caring nature and are DBS checked.
What will it cost?
We do make a small charge for the services. Please contact us for more information. How can I join?
For more information and an informal chat, telephone (01763) 221058 or email secretary@mmws.org.uk.
Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme is a registered charity
Meldreth Parish Council
www.meldreth-pc.org.uk
Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 6th March 2025
This Parish Council meeting was held in the Community Room in Elin Way. The main points are set out below in the usual summary format. The full formal minutes can be viewed in due course on the website noted above and on the Parish Council notice board; these will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.
Discussions and Decisions
District and County Reports
The Council thanks our District and County Councillors for their latest report; this can be seen in Meldreth Matters on pages 38-40. Questions arising and requests for further information on local issues can be raised directly with our District and County representatives.
Village Traffic
Discussions continue and we now have some amended suggestions from the Greater Cambridge Partnership for the Greenway. The main change being proposed is the creation of a continuous 20mph area between Meldreth and Melbourn, as envisaged in our original application to the County Council about two years ago. There will be no wholesale introduction of speed reduction measures but there is a proposal to introduce such measures on Station Road up to the junction with Whitecroft Road. The latest proposals can be accessed on the Council’s website where there are links giving more detail. We continue to have a good collaborative relationship with the highways authorities about these issues.
Discussions are taking place with Melbourn Parish Council about co-operation on the oversight and maintenance of the path between Meldreth Station and Melbourn, through the newly refurbished underpass.
Village Maintenance
The next steps will include repairing our village bus shelters and several signposts. The doors into our pavilion and its outside store, also need significant work.
SCDC Four Day Week
We have had several discussions within the Council about the SCDC working week arrangements and urge all individual residents who feel that they have been affected by the four day working week to submit their views in the survey. [Editor’s Note: the survey closed on 23rd March.] The Council has decided that its participation in the survey should be in response to specific issues which have directly affected the Council. At present the Council has been unable to identify any such issues which have adversely affected Parish Council business and which can be proven to be due to the four day working week.
Finance Issues
Our Section 106 working group is actively engaged in considering what schemes we would like to prioritise, having regard to the funds we already hold and those likely to be generated from development schemes that are in the planning pipeline. This process will need to take account of specific purposes already agreed with SCDC, and what flexibility might exist for modifying or redirecting these purposes within the s106 rules and guidelines. We will publish the Council’s mid-term proposals for new investments in the village facilities in due course.
Recreation Ground Issues
Our equipment remains largely in good order but some repair and maintenance work is needed; this will be approached with a focus on reported safety issues and priorities.
Community Projects
The village car park surface drainage system needs to be repaired as this represents a potential trip hazard to those using the car park; steps are in hand to deal with this. The Knitted Poppy project for the annual War Memorial commemorations has been excellently supported by a large number of village volunteer knitters and crocheters. Good progress is being made towards the provisional target of 2,000 poppies.
Parish Burial Ground
We now have quotations for doing this work and are ready to proceed with the tidying of graves and overgrown areas. As mentioned last month, we would welcome hearing views from the village about this work, especially from those with family or other connections to the burial ground. The source of the underground leak to our watering system has been found and repaired by our water company and we now need to repair the outlet pipe so that the system is fully restored.
Next Parish Council Meeting
The next meeting will be on Thursday 3rd April 2025 at 7.30pm at the Elin Way Community Room.
Parish Council
STOP PRESS
Vacancy for a Trustee for the Almshouses
Following the retirement of Hilary Duncan from the Emilie Agnes Elin Almshouse Trust after many years of excellent service, we are looking for a new trustee.
Please email me on dearmlp@gmail.com for further information.
Cllr Roger James (Vice Ch.) roger+pc@rogerjames.net
Cllr Alan Land conradland@btinternet.com
Cllr James Mossey j.mossey1211@gmail.com
Cllr Nigel Pellatt nppellatt56@gmail.com
All correspondence should be directed to the Clerk in the first instance
Planning Matters
Meldreth Parish Council
The following items have been taken from the minutes of the planning meeting on 6th March. Planning meeting minutes may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website: www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.
55 High Street, 25/0182/TTCA
Yew – Reduction in height from 14m to 9.75m and in spread from 13.8m to 9.1m. No comment.
Other Items
A message has been received from the S106 officer that Gocold will be going to appeal. The Parish Council will need to look at possible S106 projects.
Planning
Authority Decisions
70 High Street, Meldreth 24/03624/CONDA
Submission of details required by condition 4 (mortars, plasters and render) of Listed Building consent 24/03624/LBC. Condition discharged in full.
8 High Street, Meldreth 24/04617/CLUED
Certificate of lawfulness under S191 for the existing use of units 8, 8a and 8b to be known as one separate dwellinghouse. Certificate not granted.
Land Adjacent to 40 High Street, 23/04123/FUL
Permission granted for the erection of a single dwelling (self/custom build).
73 High Street, 23/04561/COND
Submission of details required by conditions 2 (hard and soft landscape works), 5 (foul water drainage), 6 (surface water drainage), 12 (renewable energy technology), 13 (water conservation), 14 (power driven plant equipment), 17 (underground service) and 23 (bat roost survey) of planning permission 23/04561/S73. Condition discharged in full.
Details of all applications and Planning Authority decisions can be viewed online: https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.
The Meldreth Matters Team
www.meldrethhistory.org.uk
Thousands of images and over 730 pages on Meldreth, past and present
See the Meldreth Today section for information on footpaths * facilities * over 25 local clubs & groups
District and County Councillor Report
New SCDC Website Launched
The new South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) website (expected launch date is 25th March) will have lots of new features including localisation; this will allow residents and users to enter their postcode and find information purely relevant to the area they live, such as their local councillors, the bin schedule, planning applications close by and the local events happening in their area.
Local Plan Update
Development of the emerging Local Plan for the 2030s has been on hold for over a year due to uncertainties over water supply and transport provision. However, Greater Cambridge Shared Planning has announced that sufficient progress has been made to allow a draft Local Plan to be produced this year, for review by the council and for public consultation. There is a huge lead-up time in plan making and these are only steps in the process; plan making will move carefully forward alongside planning for water resource and transport provision.
State of the Roads and Pavements
Significant additional resources have been allocated to Highways for the coming financial year via the new business plan, which should help (please see our report below on council tax and business planning). However, it is important to note that what is needed to bring the network into a decent state of repair is estimated at a sobering £600m. Thank you very much to all who have taken the trouble to report on the County website. We’re aware that Whitecroft Road too needs repair and have flagged up the succession of potholes requiring urgent attention. The schedule for micro-asphalt treatment to Station Road has been checked and has been put on the list for next year. It is noticeable that the patching work done to part of the High Street last year have helped a lot, as has the micro-asphalt treatment to Fenny Lane.
Foul Water Back-up and Flooding; Anglian Water Response
As we’ve reported in recent months, multiple representations were made to Anglian Water in September and October, via County and District Council channels, in an effort to get a response to concerns we discussed a year ago and longer, in relation to persistent household foul water back-up and flooding. Anglian Water’s email response is little and late and is as follows: ‘By way of an update, these surveys are still on the list to be completed and will be prioritised across the Anglian Water region based on risk. We will also be sealing a manhole in Whaddon which we hope will help Meldreth, as our network pumps from Whaddon to Meldreth. I will be back in touch once I have a further update.’
To which Susan responded asking for more detail. We have also asked Anglian Water for a repeat of the annual meeting.
Security Support for Domestic Abuse Survivors
The County Council has renewed a scheme which helps survivors of domestic abuse to feel safer and more secure in their own homes. The scheme, which provides additional security measures which can delay or prevent a perpetrator from entering a property, supported 525 people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough between April 2023 and March 2024. Measures offered depend on the level of risk, and may include window alarms, additional bolts, lock changes, security advice, video doorbells, dummy cameras, and response lights. The service is available for all types of housing, whether owned, privately rented, or social housing. The contract will be funded by a Safe Accommodation grant from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), enabling the council to carry out its statutory duty.
Council Budgets
In February, Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC) met to agree the Budget for 2025/26. This prioritised investment in highways maintenance as well as children who become looked-after and the building of new schools. 73% of the Council’s net spend is now being funded from Council Tax. Next year’s spending plan includes investment of £56m in highways maintenance to tackle the significant backlog of repairs and day-to-day management of the highway, and £20m in planned maintenance including roads, pavements, drainage, bridges, safety barriers, traffic lights, public rights of way and cycleways.
For adults and children’s social care, £3m was added to cover inflation for local care providers and an extra £8m for the 5% increase in the Real Living Wage. An additional £9m for children who become looked-after, £4.7m to support home-toschool transport services and £920,000 investment in capacity in SEND services. The council continues to support vulnerable communities, with an estimated £6m of Household Support Fund that will be delivered to support those most in need. This is alongside investment in further improvements in our libraries through £1.3m already committed to the Libraries Plus programme.
It was agreed to increase Council Tax by 4.99% (2% of which is for Adult Social Services) thereby raising £20m of local income to help maintain and protect critical services for the most vulnerable communities. For most of our residents in Band A-D properties that will mean between an extra £1.04 to £1.55 a week. The council budget meeting is available to watch on YouTube (not recommended!).
SCDC has agreed its Budget for 2025/26. This budget shows that the Council continues as one of the lowest taxing authorities in the country, with a below inflation increase of 2.99% (or less than 10p a week for a band D home) which brings the annual charge to £175.40 for the SCDC part of your Council Tax bill. The total cost of running the council in 2025/26 is £84m. The net cost of providing services is £28m and we will need £33.5m from taxation; these figures are broadly the same as for the 2024/25 financial year despite the increase in costs. This neutral position has been accomplished by
productivity improvements including the use of AI, while improving or maintaining service delivery.
South Cambridgeshire Council Tax will bring in £12m, the other sources being £18m from Business Rates and £3m in Government grants. In addition, the council is expecting to receive nearly £8m in commercial rent and interest from loans in addition to fees and charges mainly from large scale planning applications. Surplus income from taxation enables a transfer of £3.5m into reserves to meet a predicted deficit in coming years. SCDC has £31.5m earmarked for various projects ranging from a fund to support renewable projects, to support our net zero communities grants schemes and to provide support for homelessness.
On capital expenditure, the council will be buying an extra vehicle and employing another member of staff to support the Council’s Enviro-Crime team as it tackles fly-tipping. There will also be additional resource to combat and raise awareness of fraud, plus further support to strengthen ties with Parish and Town Councils.
Housing at SCDC
Part of the Budget at SCDC includes the Housing Revenue Account. The cost of repairing, improving, and building new council homes cannot by law be subsidised by Council Tax or Business Rates and so this cost (apart from Right to Buy receipts, S106 funding from housing developers and Government grants) is shouldered by our council tenants through their rents or others renting other housing assets such as council garages.
SCDC has over 2,000 families on the housing waiting list so building more council homes for rent is a priority and we have a target of delivering at least 75 new homes a year. We have 5,815 council homes, up from 5,705 last year. We also want to improve the standard of our existing homes, particularly their energy efficiency. In 2025/26 we also have a £205m loan to repay on top of the £12m loan to build more homes taken out in 2012 to pay the then Government to keep all council house rents for the council. This loan has to be repaid by council tenants so we have had to increase council rents by 2.7% bringing the average rent to £129.98 a week and bringing an income of £38m. Some 40% of our tenants receive Housing Benefit.
Zoom Cuppa – Councillors’ Drop-in Surgery
We meet every Monday 5.00pm-6.00pm. Please feel free to ask us for the joining link, or contact us by telephone or email with any concerns and we will always do our best to help.
Sally Ann Hart, Jose Hales and Susan van de Ven
District Councillor Sally Ann Hart, sallyannhart@riskingonpurpose.com, 07791 233303
District Councillor Jose Hales, Josehales@gmail.com, 07703 262649
County Councillor Susan van de Ven, susan.vandeven@cambridgeshire.gov.uk, 07905 325574
Village Directory
Litter Picker
Neighbourhood Watch
Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118
Laura Elvin—(01763) 261084 meldrethnhw@gmail.com
One Stop (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days
Village Hall Bookings Book online: www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk
Village Hall Chairman Andrew Young—07572 553647
Cycling Group
John Rogger—(01763) 260809
Local History Group (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk
Lunch Club
Nikki & Julie—07599 292327
Melwood Cons. Group (01763) 232855; www.melwood.org.uk
Photographic Group www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk
Revelation
U3A
Bowls Club
Croquet Club
Table Tennis
Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440
Nicole Searle—(01763) 269561
David Rich—(01763) 262116
Janet Pope—(01763) 248239
John Richards—07938 907609
Tennis Club (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2
Vicar
Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178
Bells Jayne White—jayne.white1@ntlworld.com
Ian Mitchell (Friends) 07726 936635; www.foht.org.uk
Churches Together
Baby & Toddler Group
Brownies (1st Meldreth)
Guides (1st Meldreth)
Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178
Julia Moore—07403 462198
Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com
Email: 1stmeldrethguides@gmail.com
Hartbeeps Kelly@hartbeeps.com
Meldreth Rainbows
1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com
Pre– and Primary School (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk
Parish Council
District Councillors
Please see details at end of Parish Council report
Jose Hales—07703 262649; Sally Ann Hart—07791 233303
District Council Offices (01954) 713000; www.scambs.gov.uk/
County Councillor
Susan van de Ven—07905 325574 https://susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/
County Council Offices 0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ MP Pippa Heylings; Pippa.heylings.mp@parliament.uk
Station Ticket Office Hours: Mon - Fri 7.00-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.15pm
Rail User Group 07905 325574; www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk
Govia/Great Northern www.thameslinkrailway.com
The Trainline www.thetrainline.com
Stagecoach www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge
Potholes, problems,Highways etc.
Streetlights (faulty)
http://www2.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/HighwaysReports/ Highways/ReportProblem1.aspx or in an emergency tel 0345 045 5212
Report on SCDC website. For urgent faults use (01954) 713000 - Mon-Fri, 8am-5.30pm. Out of office hours: (01354) 65432. Give location, fault & SC or CCC no.
Melbourn Surgery (01763) 260220
Addenbrooke’s (01223) 805000 or (01223) 245151
NHS 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)
Childline 0800 1111 (24 hours)
Citizens Advice Bureau 0808 2787808; www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Community Support for Dementia Davina Biswell 07961 574104 or Stephanie Trayhurn 07710 198299
Community Transport (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk
Home-Start (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk
Melbourn Time Bank (01763) 263303; https://tol2.timebanking.org/melbourn
Meldreth Food Bank Jo—07572 443522
Meldreth Village Hub Helen Meridew—07787 734973
Mind (mental health) 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk
Samaritans 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org
General Emergency 999 or 112
Gas 0800 111 999
Electricity 0800 783 8838
Anglian Water 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk
Cambridge Water (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk
Crimestoppers 0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org
Police 101; www.cambs.police.uk
S Cambs Fire & Rescue (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk
Melbourn Hub (01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com
Royston Taxis (01763) 0250811
For details of village groups & facilities see the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.
Advertising Rates
Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request. For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on (01763) 262176.
Index to Advertisers
Meldreth Matters depends on advertising revenue to cover its production costs. Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers.
TheMeldrethMattersTeam
Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Editorial Assistants: Robin Farbridge, David Marsh; Distribution: Sharon Dunford 07415 171295 Founder: Ann Barnes
Meldreth Matters is available in colour online at https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters
