Meldreth Matters, August 2025

August 2025

In this issue …

Hope Active Poppy Project Speed Indicator Device Data Village Hub

Book your

FREE

Reconnect to your life

ear health check today

Whatever your hearing difficulty, angli-EAR Hearing uses the most up-to-date tests and equipment to find the best solution for you.

Independent audiology experts you can trust Hearing Assessments

Ear Wax Removal

Hearing Aids

Tinnitus Solutions

BOOK ONLINE

www.angliearhearing.co.uk

01223 661399 info@angliearhearing.co.uk

Unit 1, Whitecroft Rd, Meldreth, Royston, SG8 8NE

Contents Village Groups Friends of Holy Trinity 4-5 Local History Group 13 Tennis Club 6 Women’s Group 8

Miscellaneous Foxton Scarecrow Festival 10 Foxton Singers 19 Melbourn Hub 36 MP Update 17 Things to Do in August 20-21 Tractor Run 8

Village News & Issues Craft and Community Fairs 11 Hope Active 10 Letter to Editor 12 Neighbourhood Watch 15 Parish Charities 12 Please Help 29 Poppy Project 3 Speedwatch 26-27 Village Hall 14-15 Village Hub 11

Children & Education Activities for Families 16 Local Government Local Councillors 32-34 Parish Council 29, 38 Planning 30 Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 44 Go Digital 41 Home-Start back cover Mobile Warden Scheme 37 Refuse Collections 22 Village Directory 42-43 Wellbeing Support 37

Church News Church Fete 6 Holy Trinity Church 7 Gardening and Nature A Meldreth Garden 24-25 Sparrowhawk 9

This month’s cover picture: The Meads Footpath Photograph by Lesley Farbridge 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.

The last date for copy is the 12th of each month 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.

1

RML

IT CONSULTANTS LTD

RML IT Consultants Ltd Newton Hall, Town Street, Newton, Cambridge CB22 7ZE Tel: +44 (0) 1223 873747, Mobile 07946 216268 Email: info@rmlconsultants.co.uk

INCORPORATING WANT YOUR P.C. REPAIRED AT REASONABLE RATES?

whatever the size of your company we can help…

Internet connection and security Firewall/VPN solutions provider Installations and upgrades Network and computer support Wireless networking and security

GIVE ME A CALL ON:07946 216268

All our solutions are individually specified for your company ensuring the best and most cost-effective result:

Implementation of messaging systems Web design and content management Email compliance (archiving and retrieval) Hardware and software expertise and sourcing

2

Editorial Welcome to the August issue of Meldreth Matters.

A celebration of the marvellous new footpath between Meldreth and Melbourn was held on 16th July; unfortunately press timing meant that we were not able to announce the date of the celebration in the July issue of MM. Both the church and this magazine have financial concerns.

While woodworm damage to church pews in Holy Trinity church is less extensive than feared, some pews will need to be replaced by chairs. In addition, new lighting is to be installed which will be expensive. Financial support for our church, for daily church operations and for the above repairs and renovations, remains essential. In his article on page 7, the Vicar discusses efforts being made by the church to meet these costs, and also suggests ways that parishioners might wish directly to support the church.

This magazine also is at present in need of more advertising revenue (see page 29).

Robin Farbridge Assistant Editor

Poppy Project for Remembrance Sunday I thought I should give you all an update on the project for Remembrance Sunday.

I am delighted to tell you that from the poppy knitting and crocheting community we have a total of 1,867 poppies so far!

I know some of you are still crocheting and knitting the last remaining balls of wool, so I am sure we will reach our target of 2,000 poppies and maybe even a few more!

Could everyone hand their knitted poppies in by 31st July please? You can drop them in to the Community Room in Elin Way on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12.00 - 3:00pm. Alternatively, please call me on 07792 578786 to arrange delivery or collection.

Keep a look out in the September issue of Meldreth Matters for the grand total!

Jenni Bone

Visit your local history website

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Over 700 pages on Meldreth, past and present 3

Friends of Holy Trinity Church Meldreth www.foht.org.uk We will be holding the following two events in September.

Pride and Prejudice, Thursday 4th September Our next event is a theatre production of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice at the church, on Thursday 4th September. The performance will start at 7.30pm.

There will be a licensed bar serving refreshments before the performance and during the interval. Tickets are available from www.tickettailor.com/events/ cuemarketing/1523192.

Churchyard Classic Car Show, Sunday 7th September This is closely followed by the 20th edition of the Churchyard Classic Car Show, on Sunday 7th September. This will be open to the public from 1.30pm with a good selection of interesting classic cars, live jazz band, auto jumble stall and refreshments. All being well there will also be a triple fly past of a Lancaster bomber, diverted from the Duxford air show. Have your cameras at the ready!

Ian Mitchell Vice Chair FOHT ianmmeldreth@gmail.com 07726 936635

Richard Burns ELECTRICIAN For installation, repair or advice please call

Tel: Mob:

01763 263 121 07958 028 729

sockets@richardburnselectrician.co.uk Part P approved Certified installer

Compliant to BS7671 Based in Meldreth

ADVERTISE HERE 1/8 page just £8.75 per issue or £65 per annum See page 44 for more rates For more information email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com 4

5

Meldreth Tennis Club clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub Meldreth Tennis Club held an Open Day on Sunday 6th July. Unfortunately heavy rain stopped play a little early but not before plenty of tennis was played and fun was had! Despite the weather, the event was well attended by both adults and children and we now have new members numbering well into double figures.

If you are still unsure about joining or if you were unable to come, you can attend up to three club social sessions before deciding whether or not to join. We have adult social sessions on Mondays from 10.00am to noon, Tuesdays from 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Wednesdays from 9.30am to noon, Thursdays from 10.00am to noon and Saturdays from 10.00am to noon. If you come to one of these you will be made very welcome. For more detailed information on the Club visit our website: clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub.

Ralph Betts Meldreth Tennis Club

Decorating the Church for the Church Fete The Fete was held on 28th June and this year we decided to do something a bit different from our usual best rose for scent or three sweet peas with the longest stems competitions. Instead we asked people just to bring an arrangement from their gardens. Following a heat wave, roses were over by the time of the fete, so people had look hard for greenery and seed heads.

In the end the church looked beautiful with all the kneelers displayed on the pews and arrangements in the window alcoves, on the font, on the pulpit, on the screen and at the entrance to the church. Alchemilla Mollis or ladies’ mantle with its fresh green flowers, Nigella or ‘love in the mist’ and allium seed heads all looked wonderful. I didn’t miss the colour which we usually have and one arrangement which looked truly unusual was a collection of grasses from our front garden - the result of ‘no mow May’.

A big thank you to everybody who helped; it was so imaginative. Let’s do it again next year - it’s easier than a competitive show!

Julie Draper 6

Holy Trinity Church melbournmeldrethcofe.com As you will recall, the pews at Holy Trinity have suffered considerable damage due to deathwatch beetle infestation, woodworm, and damp conditions. We had thought that we would need to remove all the pews, but we have managed to examine them in more detail and as a result, it will now be necessary to replace only ten pews, which is half of them, and acquire new replacement chairs at an estimated cost of £7,500. We have applied for the correct permission from the Diocesan Chancellor, but this will take a few months to get through before any pews are removed. I will keep you updated as much as I can.

Additionally, we are planning to implement a new lighting scheme, which involves removing the redundant heaters and the lights suspended from the roof. We would then plan to install new lighting like that used in All Saints’ in Melbourn.

The projected cost for this initiative at Holy Trinity is approximately £35,000.

We intend to apply for a grant to cover the VAT on both projects where possible.

However, receipt of the VAT grant is not guaranteed and may not apply to all associated project costs. The VAT is not recoverable from HMRC but through a grant from the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport. While there is a current cap on the amount we can apply for, neither of these projects reaches that cap. The resource is offered on a first come, first served basis so when the allocated funds have been claimed by churches across the country, the application process will no longer be available.

While fundraising for development initiatives continues, it is essential to maintain daily church operations, which currently require a minimum of £75 per day, which will rise due to increasing costs. If you are interested in making regular contributions please contact me directly for further information.

In early September, members will be formally invited to review their ongoing support for the work of the church. Every contribution, whether given weekly or via standing order/direct debit, directly sustains the mission, ministry and continued presence of the church within our parish.

As ever, if you would like to discuss the plans we have for Holy Trinity, have fundraising ideas, or would like to donate to us, please contact me.

Reverend Andrew Birks rev.andrew.birks@hotmail.com (01763) 230178

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Over 730 pages on Meldreth, past and present 7

Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group We are a small friendly group who meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month at ASCH Melbourn or in the meeting room in Holy Trinity Meldreth. Meetings commence at 7.45pm and last about one and a half hours. We either have a speaker or some in-house entertainment, followed by refreshments. A charge of £2 is made to cover expenses and we are also able to donate to the charity pot; this year, we are supporting Addenbrookes Charitable Trust.

At our June meeting we enjoyed a talk by Avril and Roger Mellor on their trip to Japan in 2024. They sailed round Southern Japan and saw Mount Fuji, various shrines and temples and a Bonsai nursery. They visited Hiroshima, which they described as an emotional experience. Overnight they then sailed to South Korea, where in Gyeongju there were over 200 tombs dating back to 57BC. After sailing back to Japan they caught the bullet train to Tokyo.

Sue Toule thanked them for their interesting presentation and their amazing photographs and they said they would like any donations to be given to Addenbrookes Charitable Trust.

Janet Backer and I have compiled a quiz for our July meeting. Our meeting in August will be a meal out at a venue that is as yet undecided. If you require any information about the group, or a lift to a meeting, please telephone one of the committee members. They are Diane Blundell on (01763) 221415, Sue Toule on (01763) 260955, Angela Leach on (01763) 262793, Mary Bailey on (01763) 220171 and Janet Backer on (01763) 221492. We look forward to seeing you.

Angela Leach

Tractor Road Run The Cambridgeshire Vintage Tractor Club Charity Rod Run travelled through Meldreth on Sunday 29th June. Once again, we were raising funds for Addenbrookes Charitable Trust (ACT).

If you would like to make a donation, then please scan the QR code on the right.

We have raised approximately £20,000 for ACT since we started and would like to thank you for your continued support.

Ray Parcell

8

Sparrowhawk As the copy deadline approached, Margaret took this image of a female Sparrowhawk feeding from a recent prey item, which was juvenile Stock Dove; the latter nest in our garden.

Female Sparrowhawk are considerably bigger than the males (20 to 25% depending on how you calculate it). The male provides food for the female and chicks at the nest because the young need smaller portions. The fact that the female had made a kill would seem to indicate that fledging has taken place as she was hunting (and eating) for herself.

Sparrowhawks are regular visitors to our garden and usually have a regular route which includes bird feeders which serve as their “takeaway”.

Margaret & Terry Lynch Bury Farm, North End

Giftware & Homeware

Men’s, women’s, baby & home

At The Old Barn The British Queen, Meldreth (rear of the car park)

Call us on: 07821680936 Email: info@queenbeemeldreth.com Instagram: @queenbeemeldreth Opening times: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5.30pm

9

Hope Active Are you looking for a laid-back way to unwind, meet new people, and enjoy some friendly company during the day? Then please come along to our Game & Chat Hope Active Sessions, where you can:  Play classic and modern board games  Join in with carnival games, curling, darts and other games  Enjoy a hot cup of coffee, tea, hot chocolate or a cold drink and biscuits  Have a friendly chat with like-minded people  Get involved with arts and crafts including knitting and crochet.

Sessions take place on the first Monday of every month from 1.00-3.00pm in the Community Room, in Elin Way. All welcome.

Hope Active

Foxton Scarecrow Festival 2025 We will be holding our very successful Scarecrow Festival once again this year on Saturday 4th October from 12 noon, so please come along and join us for some scarecrow fun!

This year our theme is ‘In Perfect Harmony!’ – see if you can identify all the various songs and singers that the inventive people of Foxton have come up with! As in previous years, you’ll be able to wander through Foxton village from one scarecrow to another. Join in with the various fundraising activities along the way, including a children’s quiz and ‘Where’s Wally?’ Will you be able to find this special scarecrow, hidden somewhere in the village? We welcome you to stop at various venues around the village for some refreshments such as bacon butties, home-made soup or tea and cakes. There will be a variety of musical entertainment during the afternoon in the Village Hall and at ‘The Barn’, and you’ll be able to vote for your favourite scarecrow. This fun event for all ages will finish with prize giving and the raffle draw.

If you would like to perform at our music venue (individuals or groups), please contact us as soon as possible at foxtonscarecrow@gmail.com We’ll be raising funds for St Laurence Church, Foxton School and Pre-School.

Programmes will be available on the day from the Village Hall and the Village Shop, Foxton. For further information, email foxtonscarecrow@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

Kimberly Tongish 10

Meldreth Village Hub Every Tuesday and Thursday 12.00–3.00pm Freshly cooked lunches every Tuesday Teas, coffees and cakes on Thursdays FREE FOR ALL AND NO NEED TO BOOK! Community Room, Elin Way (not the Village Hall) Your friendly Village Hub continues to meet every week. Our visitors’ ages range from 30s – 80s. We cater for everyone!

Our amazing volunteers cook a freshly prepared lunch every Tuesday and there is always plenty of chatter and laughter.

Thursdays tend to be quieter so if you would like to pop in, maybe with a friend, we would love to see you.

We have table football and air hockey, jigsaws, lots of different board games, music, quizzes, good food, or just a bit of peace and quiet.

If you have any questions, for example about PIP, Attendance Allowance, Blue Badges, rogue trading/scamming, help with IT problems, or anything that you are unsure about, please get in touch. All chats are in complete confidence.

We couldn’t provide the lunches and fun activities if it wasn’t for our wonderful volunteers … thanks everyone!

We look forward to meeting you and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Helen Meridew, Lead Volunteer hmeridew@btinternet.com 07787 734973 (Donations gratefully received)

Meldreth Craft and Community Fairs Just a reminder that we have three fairs planned for the remainder of this year: Sunday 5th October, Sunday 16th November and Sunday 14th December. All fairs will be held in Meldreth Village Hall from 10.00am to 2.30pm. Entry to all fairs is free and there will be a café at each one offering a range of refreshments.

For further information please contact us at cbevents@mail.com or telephone 07717 120850.

Carrie Carter 11

Letter to the Editor Meldreth Hub I would like to give a shout out to The Hub in Meldreth which provides such an invaluable service to many of us living in the village. I go there every Tuesday and it's now become one of the highlights of my week. It serves so many purposes for so many of us. Not only is it a lovely warm welcoming place, but it's also great to meet up with other people living in the village, many of whom I have not met before, even though I have lived in the village for several years.

The Hub is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 12.00–3.00pm, providing a delicious lunch on Tuesdays, as well as endless cups of tea and cake, and it's always an entertaining day. Some weeks they hold quizzes, which are always fun, and from time to time they invite interesting external speakers to come to speak to us on a variety of topics. There really is something for everyone. I particularly enjoy the board games. Also, one can just turn up—you don't need to book—and it's all free!

None of this would be possible, of course, without the wonderful volunteers.

They are always there to help, and their support has been much appreciated by me recently when they helped me to obtain a car insurance quote which could only be done online. I would not have had the skills or resources to do this myself. I feel that we are so lucky as a village to have The Hub and I know that everyone who comes along feels the same.

C Rutherford Meldreth Parish Charities (Charity No 233979) comprising bequests from Robert Halfhead (1658) ~ Lettice Martin (1562) ~ James Addlestone (1723) The charity was set up ‘to provide financial assistance to residents of Meldreth who do not have the resources to provide themselves with the normal things of life which most people take for granted.’ The bequests listed above still generate a small amount of interest each year and if you wish to apply for assistance, please ask for a form to complete and then return it to hilaryjcrawforth@btopenworld.com (01763 262848) The trustees will consider all applications carefully. We are here to help!

Hilary Crawforth, Clerk to the Trustees

ADVERTISE HERE Banner ad just £8.75 per issue or £65 per annum See page 44 for more rates For more information email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com 12

Meldreth Local History Group www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Family History Afternoon, 2.00-5.00pm Saturday 4th October 2025 We will be holding a family history afternoon in conjunction with Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire Family History Society in Meldreth Village Hall on Saturday 4th October. If you have an interest in Meldreth’s history or in family history (wherever your ancestors hail from) then we would be delighted to see you at our event.

More information on this event will be provided in due course in Meldreth Matters, on our website and on our Facebook page. Alternatively, to receive our newsletters, sign up on our website or email us at info@meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Can You Help?

We continue to look for new members who can assist with research and adding material to our website. Please email us at info@meldrethhistory.org.uk if you are interested.

Kathryn Betts Meldreth Local History Group

What a fantastic Summer! We’ve got a sizzling lineup of events to bring our community together this summer. Mouthwatering food & exciting entertainment, there’s something for everyone at The Royal Oak. Here’s what’s coming up!

We’re open every Monday for lunch 12–2:30 pm & dinner 5:30–8:30 pm Classic Car Club Friday, 1st August & 5th September. Starts 4:30 pm Book your free ticket to join the classic car parking section, pre Jan 1985; bring a printed or digital ticket on the day.

No ticket to park outside the classic section. Need help booking? Call 01223 776601.

Tapas Night Friday, 15th August 5:30–9 pm Transport your taste buds to Spain with our delicious Tapas Night! an evening of Mediterranean delights. Booking is essential.

Afternoon Tea Thursday, 11th September 2:30–4:30 pm. Treat yourself to a quintessentially British afternoon of tea, cakes, & good company.

Macmillan Coffee Morning Thursday, 25th September 9–11 am. Join us for coffee & cake, & come together for Macmillan Cancer Support. Every slice & sip makes a difference.

Quiz Night Sunday, 28th September 6–8 pm Think you’ve got what it takes to be a trivia champ? Gather your crew & put your knowledge to the test at our Quiz Night!

Entry: £2 per person (all proceeds go to ‘Forget-Me-Not’ charity).

The Old Tuck Shop – Pizza Perfection! Craving something delicious? The Old Tuck Shop is here to serve up freshly cooked pizzas to make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re dining in or taking away, we’ve got your slice waiting! Friday & Saturday: 4–9 pm; Sunday: 4–8 pm.

Cheers to a fantastic Summer!

Amelie & The Royal Oak Team

royaloak@cambscuisine.com ROakBarrington

01223 870791 13

Meldreth Village Hall The past few months have seen a flurry of activity at Meldreth Village Hall, all aimed at ensuring our community space remains welcoming, comfortable and fit for purpose. One of the most significant upgrades has been the replacement of our boiler which failed earlier this summer. This was made possible by a generous grant from County Broadband. The new heating system not only guarantees reliable warmth throughout the colder months, it also offers improved energy efficiency - reducing our environmental impact and helping to keep running costs in check.

By the time this reaches your doorsteps, we will have finally selected and ordered a fresh set of chairs designed to enhance comfort for every gathering, from committee meetings to large-scale events. Alongside this, we’ve welcomed a new treasurer, Richard Alderton, to the trustee team. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to David Coton for his dedication over the past few years. David’s careful stewardship kept our finances on the straight and narrow and we’re deeply grateful for the countless hours he invested in helping to secure the hall’s future.

Although we were disappointed not to secure grant funding for replacing the entrance and hall doors, our determination remains undimmed. Replacing these doors is a priority, both for accessibility and security, and we will continue to pursue every available funding avenue until we can make this essential improvement a reality. Your ongoing support and any suggestions for potential grant bodies are always welcome, as we strive to maintain and enhance the hall for all.

In brighter news, the Baby and Toddler Group, once at risk of closing following the retirement of its long-serving organiser, has found new leadership and will resume in the new term under the careful management of a committed volunteer.

For many years, Meldreth Village Hall has provided a safe, welcoming space for parents and carers to gather, share experiences and watch their little ones learn through play. We’re delighted that this vital community service will continue uninterrupted.

Our calendar remains bursting with a wide array of clubs, workshops, fitness sessions and wellbeing activities.

Whether you’re into fitness, yoga and mindfulness, or keen to join one of our many clubs, there’s something on offer to suit every interest and age group. Check our website regularly for up to date schedules and feel free to drop in to find out more about each group’s focus and membership arrangements.

Looking ahead, the Village Hall Trustees are thrilled to welcome the celebrated American folk duo Hungrytown 14

on Saturaday 20th September. Known for their captivating harmonies and rich storytelling songs, Hungrytown will deliver a memorable evening of live music that promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Tickets are priced at just £10 and can be purchased via www.ticketsource.co.uk/meldreth-village-hall-trustees. We recommend booking early, as seats are expected to sell quickly. Finally, a quick reminder that Meldreth Village Hall is available to hire for parties, club meetings and celebrations. Whether you’re planning a birthday, anniversary, community fundraiser or special event, our flexible spaces and friendly support team are here to help make your occasion a success. For availability, pricing and booking details, please visit www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk. We look forward to sharing our inviting space with you very soon.

Meldreth Village Hall Trustees

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch www.facebook.com/meldrethnhw Summer holiday season is well underway now. In all the excitement of finding your passport, dreaming of that first cocktail by the pool and taking the dog to kennels, don’t forget to make arrangements to keep your home safe while you are away. The national Neighbourhood Watch organisation has come up with the mnemonic WIDEN to help ensure you don’t come home to a nasty surprise. This stands for: W – WINDOWS – make sure windows are closed and locked (including garage and shed windows); I – INTERIOR – switch on your home alarm, use light-switch timers or smart bulbs, put all valuables out of sight and make a written and photographic record of them; D – DOORS – lock all doors (deadlocked if possible) and hide door keys; E – EXTERIOR – make sure external lights are on a sensor, lock gates and outbuildings, lock vehicles and remove valuables from them. Hide evidence of packaging from expensive purchases, and put away anything that could be used to break in (ladders, bricks, etc.); N – NEIGHBOURS – ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your property, take your bins in and out and look after any deliveries left on your doorstep. If you don’t know your neighbours very well, now is the perfect time to get better acquainted … and why not join Neighbourhood Watch too?

Don’t advertise the fact you’re away on social media, even if it’s tempting to share your wonderful holiday snaps. They can wait until you’re safely back home!

Laura Elvin meldrethnhw@gmail.com (01763) 261084 15

Things for Children and Families To Do in August Monday 4th August and Friday 8th August, 9.30am - 12.30pm Children’s Summer Craft Days The Courtyard, Stapleford Granary, Bury Road, Stapleford CB22 5BP Drop in activities for children aged 3+. £4 per child (accompanied) Themes are The Big Weave on 4th August and Interstellar on 8th August.

Tuesday 5th - Sunday 31st August, 12noon - 3.00pm Tuesdays to Sundays only plus Bank Holiday Monday (25th) Play Pavilion, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB An imagination playground for families inspired by nature in art. Explore, invent and play together. Drop in. Free. On the front lawn of the museum.

Wednesday 6th August, 1.00pm - 4.00pm Lavender Art, Cambridge Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside CB2 1JE Make a card from lavender, watch bees collecting nectar. All ages welcome.

Drop in to the Garden Room, the Schools Garden. Free event but adults pay admission. Similar events on 13th; Herbs and Salads; 26th; Flower Crowns.

Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th August, 10.00am - 5.00pm Cambridge Country Show and We Love Dogs Stow Road, Stow Cum Quy Park CB25 9AJ Dog shows, live music, rural crafts, horses, motorbike stunts, falconry, classic cars, cookery demonstrations, shows for children, animals to handle. Adult £12.95, child £6. For more details see www.cambridgecountryshow.co.uk.

Wednesday 20th August, 11.00am - 12noon Safari Stu! Woodman Inn, Nuthampstead, Royston SG8 8NB Hands-on close encounter with a variety of mammals, invertebrates and reptiles.

For ages 3+. £12 pp. Book on (01763) 848328.

Wednesday 27th and Thursday 28th August, 6.00pm - 8.00pm Families around the Fire Cambourne Nature Reserve (27th); Trumpington Meadows (28th) Outdoor family fun looking at nature and toasting marshmallows. For ages 7+. £9 per child. Book on www.wildlifebcn.org.

Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st August, 10.00am - 5.30pm Ancient Oak Fayre, Quy Country Park, Stow Road CB25 9AF Falconry, mermaid tank, jousting, jester, drummers, Viking re-enactment, Morris dancing, rural crafts, market stalls and more. For children: fairy, elf and wizard crafts. Adults £20, children £10. For full details see www.ancientoak.uk.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

16

An Update from Pippa Heylings MP www.pippaheylings.org.uk It really is amazing to think that a year has already gone by since voters in South Cambridgeshire put their faith in me to be their local champion in parliament; I'm so incredibly grateful to them. South Cambridgeshire is a wonderful place to live and work, with beautiful countryside, rivers and chalk streams, and an economy driven by science and innovation that includes the largest biomedical research campus in Europe. It is a privilege to represent you and our area.

I hope you can see that I’ve hit the ground running. Right from the start, I've focused on what you told me matters most: fixing our local health services, tackling the cost-of-living crisis and protecting our environment. I’m proud that we've already had some important wins.

Alongside the hard work of many people, securing the green light from the government for the new Cambridge Cancer Hospital was a vitally important win for our area, but we have to keep pushing to get spades in the ground. More hospitals alone won’t mend our healthcare system so I will continue to press the government to do more to fix social care.

The new government’s plans for growth for our area propose significant new housing development and further growth of our world-leading life science and technology sectors, making it even more important for local people to have a say.

I have been working with local councils and regional and national bodies to hold the government to account to ensure that there is joined-up planning to deliver enough GPs, A&E and public transport services to cater for our existing and new communities. I am pushing the government to hold a ministerial roundtable locally to tackle the water supply and sewage crisis, which is a dealbreaker for this government’s growth plans for our water-stressed area. Decisions made in the next few years must benefit the people of South Cambridgeshire while ensuring that our wonderful local environment and nature are protected.

Helping constituents is a vital part of my work as an MP, and one of the most rewarding. Each week, my small team and I receive hundreds of email requests for help with problems, or responses to issues that constituents are passionate about.

At the time of writing, we have dealt with over 7,000 cases from more than 5,000 constituents.

I will be out and about in our communities throughout the summer recess, listening to residents and attending local events. I hope to see many of you on my travels. If you would like to find out more about what I am doing in parliament you can sign up to my weekly newsletter by going to: pippaheylings.org.uk/ newsletter.

Pippa Heylings MP

17

Is Your Wooden Floor In Need Of Sanding ?

Moorlands Court

Art of Clean Offer A Dust Free Wood Floor Sanding & Finishing

Over 60? Feeling a bit lonely?

Why not try our Day Centre?

“Very professional and friendly service. Throughout the process, I felt like the end result would be of a high quality, and it was. Very happy with my refurbished parquet floor!”

Chris Smith

Call today on: 01223

790020

Or scan QR code, fill out contact form & we’ll get back to you:

 Meet up for a chat and lunch?  Our Day Centre is comfortable, friendly and easily accessed.  Open Tuesday to Friday every week.  Transport can be arranged.

Why not give us a call?

Please quote "Meldreth Mag"

To find out more, just call us at Moorlands Court on 01763 260564, or email : denise.taylor@chsgroup.org.uk

01763 244955 lawnpartners.co.uk

18

Foxton Singers www.chimemusic.co.uk Thinking of joining a choir this autumn? Come along to Foxton Singers on Thursday evenings! We are a very friendly group of about 20 singers and meet on Thursday evenings between 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Foxton Pavilion during term time, from 4 September.

You are welcome to join or re-join us at any time but on Thursday 18th September, we’re having an Open Evening when you can just pop in to see what we do and try it out. We would love to see you then!

Here are some of the reasons why we love our choir:  It makes us smile and laugh every Thursday evening, even in the dark days of winter.  We have an amazing repertoire of music, from popular songs from all eras to jazz, folk, blues, musicals and classical choral works.  Although there’s no need to read music, as rehearsal tracks are provided, many of us have learnt this skill since joining the choir.  We sing in four-part harmony; sometimes a challenge but always rewarding!  We get a thrill from performing at local events (including weddings) and at our own annual concerts, raising much-needed funds for local charities.  We share a glass (or two) of wine to celebrate our birthdays and have so much fun!!

If you are interested in finding out more, just email Philip, our Musical Director, on philip@chimemusic.co.uk, contact Jill on 07758 753792 or have a look at our website www.chimemusic.co.uk.

Singing is uplifting, rewarding and officially good for your health. forward to hearing from you and hopefully meeting you soon!

We look

Steve & Kimberly Tongish

Meldreth Food Bank The Food Bank currently supports up to 24 families in Meldreth 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 19

Things to do in August Here are some things happening in August in the local area. To let us know about any future event or activity please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Every Friday, 10.00am to 1.00pm Free Auction Valuation Day Royston Salesroom, The Powerhouse, Lumen Road, Royston SG8 7AG Ever wondered what any of your heirlooms or antiques might be worth? Informal, fun session to get any gold, silver, jewellery, medals, collectables etc. assessed by an expert. Free of charge - just drop in.

Saturday 9th August, 12noon to 4.00pm Fitz Fest: Making Nature Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB Everyone welcome to drop in for a lively afternoon of art, music, conversation and creativity. Artworks on display, workshops, talks, live performances. Free.

Saturday 9th August, 1.30pm to 3.30pm Nature and Natter: Butterly Walk and cuppa Trumpington Meadows, Grantchester Road, Trumpington CB22 9LH Sociable afternoon walk (around 2 miles) with special focus on finding butterflies, finishing with tea and biscuits at the Ranger’s office. Meet at Byron’s Pool car park. £10 plus booking fee; £7 if a member of BCN Wildlife Trust. To book call 07894 599020 or email rebecca.neal@wildlifebcn.org.

Sunday 17th August, 10.00am to 2.00pm Hauxton Food and Craft Market Hauxton Centre, Church Road, Hauxton, Cambridge CB22 5HS Variety of food stalls often including bread, pastries, olives, Greek foods, local honey, vegetables and cakes. Plus a changing selection of craft stalls. Free. Held on third Sunday of each month.

Sunday 17th August, 10.00am to 5.00pm Horseplay at the National Horseracing Museum Palace House, Palace Street, Newmarket CB8 8EP Fun-filled day with chance to watch arena polo and Pony Club mounted games, view riding demonstrations, try the racing simulator and join in activities for all.

Museum admission £15 adult, free for children under 16.

Sunday 17th August, gates open 10.30am Herts and Essex Country Fair, Dog and Heavy Horse Show The Park, Brent Pelham SG9 0AT Traditional country fair with falconry, working dog displays and a chance to enter your dog in the family dog show. Parade of vintage tractors, heavy horses, games and a funfair for children. Free entry.

20

Friday 22nd August, 8.00pm to 9.15pm Bat Patrol 2025 University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE Come for a twilight ramble and learn about the fascinating world of bats - what they eat and where they live. Chance to use their bat detectors. For adults and accompanied children over 8. Admission £7. Weather dependent. Bookings open soon at www.botanic.cam.ac.uk.

Friday 22nd, from 7pm to Sunday 24th August, 12noon till evening The Green Man Summer Weekender, 37 Market Hill, Royston SG8 9JU Karaoke night, live music, DJs, BBQ, bouncy castle, charity raffle, spin the wheel game. Programme details at www.the listingmagazine.co.uk. All proceeds go to Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust and mental health charity, MIND. Saturday 23rd, Sunday 24th August, 11.00am onwards Out of the Ordinary Festival, various locations, central Cambridge Taking place on the city’s streets and Christ’s Pieces, near the bus station, relax and enjoy fantastic performance artists, comedy shows, music and dance. Special focus on young local bands and emerging singer/songwriters. Free.

Sunday 24th August, 10.00am to 5.30pm Little Gransden Air and Car Show Little Gransden Airfield, Fullers Hill Farm, Little Gransden SG193BP Supporting BBC Children in Need and local charities, the popular airshow returns with over four hours of vintage and aerobatic flying displays. Plus vintage, veteran and classic car show, craft stalls, fun fair, live music and many other attractions.

Early bird tickets available till 10th August, adults £30, children 5-14 £20. For details and to book: www.littlegransdenairshow.co.uk.

Monday 25th August, 9.00am to 5.00pm Ashwell Show, Elbrook Meadow, Ashwell, Hertfordshire SG7 5NE Running for over 100 years with everything a country show has to offer and fun for all the family. Headline attractions this year include camel racing and falconry displays, plus horse and dog shows, vintage tractors and cars, crafts, shopping and food stalls. Visit www.tickets.ashwellshow.co.uk for ticket prices and early booking discounts. Plenty of free parking on site.

Friday 29th to Sunday 31st August, time slots available from 10.00am BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair Audley End House and Gardens, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF Expert gardening tips, workshops, outdoor design inspiration, plants to buy, display gardens and Good Food market. Plus live music and access to Audley End House and Garden. Tickets from £19 (discounts for English Heritage members).

For timing details and to book: www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com.

Compiled by John Crawforth

21

Meldreth Village Di Monday

Tuesday

For more information on Village Hall classes or events visit www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk

10.00am-11.00 Functional Fitness 11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

4

1.00-3.00pm Hope Active

10.00am-11.00 Functional Fitness 11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

Wednesday

Thurs

Refuse Collections Black bins: 12th, 26th Blue & green bins: 5th, 19th

Get reminders on your mobile: download the Bin Collections app 6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point Pilates

10.30am-3.30p Local Crafters 12.00-3.00pm 2.30-3.30pm T 6.00-6.45pm T 7.00-9.00pm T

6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point 1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics Pilates 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

10.30am-3.30p Local Crafters 12.00-3.00pm V 2.30-3.30pm T 4.00-5.00 Acro

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

5

1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

6

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

7

11 12 13 14

6.00-6.45pm T 7.00-9.00pm T

10.00am-11.00 Functional Fitness 11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point Pilates 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

10.30am-3.30p Local Crafters 12.00-3.00pm 2.30-3.30pm T 6.00-6.45pm T Pilates 7.00-9.00pm T

10.45-11.30am Mobile Library 6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point Pilates 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

10.30am-3.30p 12.00-3.00pm

18 19 20 2 1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

25 26 27 28 1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

2.30-3.30pm T 6.00-6.45pm T Pilates 7.00-9.00pm T

Church services, Women’s Group, bell ringing and FOHT events are held in Holy Trinity Church. The M Bank & Village Hub are in the Community Room in Elin Way. Wise Local Crafters meet at Eternit Spor

22

iary - August 2025 day

Friday

Saturday

9.30am Slimming World

1

2

pm Wise

9.30am Slimming World 12.15am-1.45pm Dementia Village Hub Sing a Long Toneography TP Pilates Table Tennis

7

pm Wise

8

9.30am Slimming World

Sunday 9.45am Sung Eucharist 6.00pm Prayer & Reflection Service, Holy Trinity Church

3

8.00am Said Eucharist

9 2.00-4.00pm Dementia Memory Café

10 9.45am Said Eucharist

4 15 16 17

Village Hub Toneography o

TP Pilates Table Tennis

pm Wise

9.30am Slimming World

1 22 23 24

Village Hub Toneography Trigger Point

Table Tennis

pm Crafters 9.30am Slimming World Village Hub

9.45am Sung Eucharist

8 29 30 31

Toneography Trigger Point

Table Tennis

Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. History Group & Parish Council meetings, Hope Active, Food rts & Social Club. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.

23

A Meldreth Garden The early summer planting has passed its season and a new suit of flowers clothes the garden and will see us through until winter's first frosts. This is a time when a less experienced gardener comes adrift trying to ensure continuity of the flower garden into autumn, as the colour of the summer borders fades. This is not surprising in the face of the distraction from children, summer holidays and other demands. To ensure continuity of flowering through the autumn, some preplanning is required.

I have a range of autumn flowering perennial plants, including daylilies Hemerocallis, but I am still looking for a true white cultivar. Late flowering Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'George Davison', a yellow cultivar, red hot pokers Kniphofia, and Michaelmas daisy Aster × frikartii 'Mönch', my best cultivar.

Chocolate cosmos Cosmos atrosanguineus, needs winter protection. Other key perennials are the late flowering clematis and dahlias: I have white ones in the front border, and the red Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' with red flowers and bronze foliage, an emperor purple flowering species dahlia, and an appealing seedling, all in the back garden.

Also annuals, sunflowers Helianthus, the Mexican sunflower Tithonia, white Cosmos 'Purity' and Zinnias, tobacco plant Nicotiana sylvestris, sneezeweed Helenium and coneflower Rudbeckia, Verbena bonariensis and nasturtiums Tropaeolum majus. They are all ablaze at this time of year. The nasturtiums, a light-yellow flowered cultivar, whose seeds came from Hutton Hall in Cumberland over 25 years ago, are now reverting to orange.

Many of our late flowering plants come from around the equator and respond to heat rather than to light, making them difficult to cultivate outside of their season.

The high heat of summer is passing and the mornings and evenings are becoming cooler. When the sun drops or rises in the sky, it throws long shadows and it is then that these plants are shown to their best.

Keep on top of weeding, as weeds are far easier to remove when young. Mature, deep-rooted weeds hang on tenaciously in the soil, especially perennial weeds. I enjoy weeding and I can get lost in the rhythm of pulling them up, though it is inevitable that some will be missed. The key is focus, but I easily get distracted by the many other tasks demanding my attention and may not complete the job satisfactorily.

Of course, there is more to gardening than just removing the weeds. In August I will be cutting back flowered stems that have become derelict, removing the tired growth from ground cover plants like geraniums and pink wood sorrel Oxalis crassipes 'Rosea' that have flowered and will possibly furnish us with additional flowers this year, and deadheading roses, dahlias and cosmos to encourage new flower buds. Removing dead and decaying leaves spruces up the garden.

24

I belong to the old school. To me, gardening is about growing things, sowing seeds, taking cuttings and beautifying my plot to feed body and soul, while respecting nature and curating a space through good husbandry and improvement.

I have no problem growing native British plants, English bluebell, cornflower and corncockle, but my garden is not laid over to these. Slugs, snails and aphids are not my friends; predators are encouraged to deal with these pests. I have a water feature as well as a wildlife pool where I grow an exotic water lily Nymphaea ‘Laydekeri Lilacea'.

My rainwater collection capacity is about 3,500 litres (800 gallons), but once gone, plants have to look after themselves. I prioritise as water levels get lower and, as I write, they are very low indeed. I never water the lawn; a waste of a precious resource, as grass always comes back. Do I have to consider prairie planting and a dry gravel garden for the future?

Good Gardening.

Iain McPhee mcpheia1@gmail.com

25

Speed Indicator Device Data Fenny Lane Evaluation period 30th May to 6th July 2025.

The speed limit is 20mph.

Direction: Fenny Lane from The Stocks to Donkey Hall Crossroads Total no. of vehicles

Average daily total of vehicles

Speed violations

Average speed (mph)

Maximum speed (mph)

V85 (mph)*

32,914

884

91.8%

29

73

35

Direction: Fenny Lane from Donkey Hall Crossroads to The Stocks Total no. of vehicles

Average daily total of vehicles

Speed violations

Average speed (mph)

Maximum speed (mph)

V85 (mph)*

38,567

1,035

92.7%

28

70

33

Whitecroft Road Evaluation period 23rd June to 6th July 2025.

The speed limit is 30mph.

Direction: Whitecroft Road from Donkey Hall Crossroads towards Meldreth Total no. of vehicles

Average daily total of vehicles

Speed violations

Average speed (mph)

Maximum speed (mph)

V85 (mph)*

10,290

792

20.5%

25

79

32

Direction: Whitecroft Road from Meldreth towards Donkey Hall Crossroads Total no. of vehicles

Average daily total of vehicles

Speed violations

Average speed (mph)

Maximum speed (mph)

V85 (mph)*

9,640

742

35.7%

28

77

35

26

Please Note:  * V85 is the speed in mph below which 85% of the vehicles were travelling.  Whitecroft Road speed violations follow previous reporting. Vehicles travelling towards the monitor, which is indicating their speed, travel more slowly than vehicles that have no visual cue.  In Fenny Lane 20mph speed violations are greater than 90%.

Village Footway Access A footway is the council term for a footpath along the highway. Now is the time to trim hedges that are encroaching onto public footways as the nesting season is largely over, but please check for any remaining bird activity before cutting.

Keeping hedges trimmed back to property boundaries helps ensure clear access for all footway users, including wheelchair users, parents with pushchairs and others who need unobstructed pathways.

Meldreth Parish Council Traffic Working Group

EVE CONSTRUCTION LTD Experienced professional local builder

Extensions, garden rooms, home office, alterations, structural work, carpentry, block drives, landscaping, and all types of general building work Contact Mark 07889 669138 | 01223 264909 enquiries@eveconstruction.co.uk www.eveconstruction.co.uk 27

Specialists in made to measure window coverings: Beautifully made and locally produced Curtains and Roman Blinds Suppliers of Sanderson, William Morris, Harlequin, Scion, Prestigious Textiles Roller, Vertical, Pleated, Wood, PVC and Aluminium Venetian Blinds Contemporary window dressings: Plantation shutters and Awnings Experts in home automated motorised solutions FREE- NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS. FIND US AT Phillimore Garden Centre, Cambridge Road, Melbourn. SG8 6EY Tel: 01763 263399 www.sageblinds.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Sat 9am-1pm

28

Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston SG8 6LT Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm By appointment at other times Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant Assistant Clerk: Mrs Sally Walmesley (01763) 269928 parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk Cllr R Goddin (Chairman)

goddin@btinternet.com

Cllr Jenni Bone

jenni.bone@hotmail.co.uk

Cllr Adam Bostanci

adam.bostanci.pc@gmail.com

Cllr Glenn Foulger

glenn.foulger51@gmail.com

Cllr Nick Garner

nickphgarner@gmail.com

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

Please Help You may have read Kathryn’s editorial last month in which she highlighted the need for more advertising to enable the magazine to continue in its present form.

Its continuation depends entirely upon advertising revenue and indeed, financial donations. Someone has since very generously offered to finance a quarter page advertisement for a year, to be donated for the use of small businesses or individuals. The team is in the process of deciding how to make this work in the best possible way. We are extremely grateful for this kind and ingenious way of supporting Meldreth Matters but as advertising revenue has dropped in recent months, we badly need more financial assistance. If you have, or know, anyone with a small business who could benefit from a presence in MM, please contact us at meldrethmatters@hotmail.com We will really be very grateful. Thank you.

Lesley Farbridge Chairman

MM is Available in Colour Online To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters 29

Planning Matters Meldreth Parish Council The following items have been taken from the minutes of the planning meeting held on 19th June. The minutes of the planning meeting of 17th July were not available at time of going to press. The planning minutes may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

Land to the Rear of 94 High Street, 24/03389/FUL Erection of eight custom built dwellings. There is one amendment: additional information-viability statement, surface and foul water information. The Parish Council agreed to submit the following comments: We note that a set of new documents or revisions, concerning 24/03389/FUL have appeared on the planning site. We note the consultee objections on drainage, the consultee request for more information on solid waste and the objections from the officer responsible for ecology. These comments amplify the objections raised earlier by Meldreth Parish Council which remain unaddressed. There is also a new ecology report, dated 21st May 2025, which concludes that sufficient information has not been provided to determine the application. Further information is required in relation to Biodiversity Net Gain. The River Mel must be appropriately buffered from development. We also question the relevance of the applicants’ Viability Statement given that it discusses the financial viability of an existing business. In our experience, such material is not usually presented as relevant to any planning application.

11 Marys Way, 25/02084/HFUL Single storey front extension. Recommended approval with no comments.

Other Items Land West of Whitecroft Road, 24/04284/OUT This application is being referred to the SCDC Planning Committee as it is for four dwellings that are outside the development framework and is therefore of a scale of development and location that is sufficiently sensitive to justify it being considered by the Planning committee. Proposed tree removal maybe considered contrary to policy due to the impact this would have on the setting and landscaping of the proposed site.

Planning Authority Decisions Land to the South of North End 25/00566/OUT Outline application with all matters reserved, except for access, for the demolition of the existing turkey farm and the redevelopment for up to 38 dwellings and associated landscaping. Although SCDC planning committee have approved the application in principle, the application now has to pass section 105 procedure.

Details of all applications and Planning Authority decisions can be viewed online: https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.

The Meldreth Matters Team 30

Swift solutions

A10 TIMBER CO.

for all your minor jobs or repairs

For Timber & Sheet Material

Plumbing, Household, Pain ng & decora ng, Fixture replacement, Deck & Pa o work, Tiling, Furniture assembly, Jet washing, Garden clearance, or any other household minor works.

Happy to provide quota ons.

Graded Timber Mouldings & Flooring Decking & Fencing Insulation Cutting & delivery service

Call Paul on 07813 808737 paulswi solu on@gmail.com

All enquiries welcome.

Barwick Ford Ware, Herts. SG11 1AL Tel: 01279 842016 e: sales@a10timber.co.uk w: www.a10timber.co.uk

PYO Flowers & Fruit

(check website & social media for details)

PYO Pumpkins (throughout October)

Children’s Fun Barn Soft Play & Outdoor Beach

Your local, independent Farm Shop. Open 7 days a week, large free car park Follow us on social media for PYO, seasonal produce & events

Bury Lane, A10 Bypass, Melbourn, Royston, SG8 6GT What3Words: months.wells.tanks Tel: 01763 260418 www.burylane.co.uk

fi

FOOD HALL • DELICATESSEN • BUTCHERS • FISHMONGERS • CAFÉ • GIFT HALL • GARDEN SHOP • FUN BARN

31

District and County Councillor Report Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC) Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) Passes Gateway Review The Government has confirmed that the GCP, in which CCC and South Cambridgeshire District Council are partners, has passed its 2024-25 review. The GCP is the local delivery body for a deal with central government which brings powers as well as infrastructure and other investment worth up to £1bn by 2030.

The Melbourn Greenway is being built by the GCP, including the new shared use path from Meldreth train station to Melbourn and the recent amendments with improvements for Station Road and the junction with Whitecroft Road. An extension of the Greenway to Royston with a bridge over the A505 is also being planned; further details can be found at www.greatercambridge.org.uk.

Expansion of Community Rail Partnership (CRP) The reach of the Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Community Rail Partnership has been extended to include Whittlesford Parkway and Shelford Stations, plus Cambridge South Station upon its opening. The CRP has therefore been rebranded as the Cam Valley Community Rail Partnership.

The rationale for doing so is to capture common ground for the five stopping stations and their connection to Cambridge South, which should transform commuting and other travel between the villages and the southern area of Cambridge, including sixth form colleges and of course the Biomedical Campus with its extensive employment centres and health services. More information is available at https://camvalleycrp.org.uk.

Combined Authority Local Nature Recovery Strategy A key component of the Environment Act 2021, the aim of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is to set priorities for nature recovery. The Combined Authority’s Draft LNRS will now be subject to an eight-week public consultation commencing 18th July. For the draft LNRS and consultation materials, see: https://democracy.cambridgeshirepeterboroughca.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?AIId=1575.

Highways and Footways The celebratory opening for the new shared use path from the train station to Melbourn took place on July 16th. This new infrastructure is the result of a lot of effort by many people in the community over many years.

With the warmer weather, more highways maintenance is being undertaken.

Adam is working intensively with Highways to get the backlog addressed and a few faults have recently been repaired, e.g. the sunken gully at North End and the footway leading up to the Station Road railway bridge. An improved portal for reporting Highway faults should also be online by the time this report is published. Please give it a try if you see anything that needs reporting; the link is: 32

https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travel-roads-and-parking/roads-andpathways/roadworks-and-faults.

Cambridgeshire Handyperson Service to be Retendered Cambridgeshire has provided a Handyperson Service since 2014, jointly commissioned with Cambridgeshire’s five District and City Councils. It was first commissioned to support delivery of the Council’s early intervention and prevention agenda, to enable Cambridgeshire residents to remain living safely in their own homes for longer.

The service provides low level and affordable home adaptations including home safety checks, fitting handrails, simple plumbing work and installing key safes and smoke alarms. It is targeted to support older people and those with physical disabilities, with all work provided at a subsidised cost, significantly below market rate for the type of jobs undertaken.

Holiday Activities and Food Programme Children in receipt of benefits-related free school meals can access a fully funded place at participating holiday schemes for up to 64 hours in Cambridgeshire. The Summer Holiday and Food Programme will run from 24th July to 29th August 2025. Further information and full eligibility criteria can be found here: https:// www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/council/communities/support-with-the-cost-of-living/ holiday-activities-and-food-programme.

South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) Expiry of Postal Votes Following a change to the law as part of the Elections Act, postal votes now expire after a period of three years. Due to the timing of the reapplication legislation, around 15,000 postal votes in South Cambridgeshire are due to expire at the end of January 2026. The SCDC Elections Team has just started the process of contacting affected residents to explain that they will need to make a fresh application via email, post or text message (or a combination). This is to ensure voters have sufficient time to make a new application before next year’s elections. An article will also appear in the autumn edition of the South Cambs Magazine. Any questions to the elections team on: elections@scambs.gov.uk.

Plaudits for SCDC’s Contact Centre A mystery shopper exercise at SCDC’s Customer Contact Centre was recently carried out by an independent team of researchers by external provider Insight6.

The exercise involved 400 undisclosed calls made at various times during the Council’s busiest time of year (during the release of Council Tax bills). The calls tested the Contact Centre’s responsiveness, professionalism, and knowledge across a wide range of services. The results showed that 98% of the council’s advisors answered enquiries to a high standard with an average customer satisfaction score of 81% across all service areas compared to a benchmark score of 68% amongst other councils. An explanation of the mystery shopper process and more details 33

of the findings can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/vvyk5kfb. Meanwhile, SCDC is now using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure that telephone callers are efficiently routed either to the most appropriate advisor or to provide an immediate answer if the caller prefers. This helps to free-up time for call handlers to deal with more complicated inquiries where knowledge and experience (and the human touch) is important.

Developing AI to Improve the Efficiency of the Planning Consultation Process In the most recent Local Plan consultation, the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service (GCSP) received over 9,500 responses; submissions ranged from professionally prepared documents by commercial organisations to handwritten notes from residents, each of which is valuable and contributes to shaping our community's future.

To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of processing these submissions, the GCSP secured funding from central government to set up a partnership with the University of Liverpool with the aim of developing a cutting-edge AI tool, known as a Large Language Model (LLM) which is specifically designed to process and summarise the thousands of comments received during planning consultations.

The bespoke ‘training’ of the AI model ensured that the tool is finely tuned to both planning policy and the unique context of the Greater Cambridge area and involved the consumption of over 100,000 submissions received by GCSP between 2012 and 2024, covering 164 draft planning documents.

Earlier this year, the AI tool was tested on three live public consultations, generating summaries of each submission, which were then compared to those manually created by planning officers. The results showed no significant differences in quality, with the AI tool providing accurate and comprehensive summaries and demonstrating remarkable efficiency, summarising each submission in just sixteen minutes compared to the 18.5 hours required by the human planners.

This significant time saving exceeded initial expectations and highlights the potential for AI to streamline the planning process. It is important to note that planners will continue to read each individual submission and the AI tool will serve as an administrative support, not a decision- maker. Planners will retain the responsibility for making informed decisions based on the comprehensive review of all submissions.

You can read more about this work here: https:// tinyurl.com/2sz8a3c6.

County Councillor Adam Bostanci, adam.bostanci.mmbw@gmail.com, 07400 236329 District Councillor Sally Ann Hart, sallyannhart@riskingonpurpose.com, 07791 233303 District Councillor Jose Hales, Josehales@gmail.com, 07703 262649

34

“Years of Care in Every Clean.”

MELDRETH MATHS TUTOR

Carpets, Upholstery, & Rug Cleaning “First class customer service and the job was completed to an excellent standard. Our old leather sofas have a new lease of life and we are delighted. Thank you very much.”

Katherine Armstrong

Or scan QR code, leave a message and we’ll 790020 get back to you:

Call today on: 01223

Please quote "Meldreth Mag"

iPLASTER

SKIMMING / PATCHING CEILING REPAIR WATER DAMAGE REPAIR ARTEX COVERED

01763 260 526 07837 645173

Contact:

Email - iplaster@outlook.com CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTE IAN NORTH END MELDRETH

Fully DBS Checked

£1,500* welcome bonus!

Get paid to pursue your ambitions and career in care, while making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of children and young people with complex needs. * Earn from £12.37 - £13.49 per hour linked to competency and qualifications.

• Complete a Level 3 qualification fully funded by us! No Fees! No Loans!

• Part-time hours available.

Support Workers wanted

• Plus great benefits!

Earn up to £13.49* per hour

Contact carl.standidge@the-aurora-group.com Visit theauroragroup.co.uk/careers or Scan QR Code.

35

Melbourn Hub www.melbournhub.co.uk August at Melbourn Hub It’s a summer of fun at Melbourn Hub with great deals and a special ‘Hubby Bear’ event. We have a special early bird deal available, new ‘grab and go’ baguettes and special afternoon teas. And we’ll be keeping fully stocked with ice creams, milkshakes and other goodies. Our artist of the month is Kay Morland. Please note, story time for the under 5s will not be running during the summer holidays.

What’s On This Month Every Monday – SEN chat A chance for parents and families of children with SEN to meet and share ideas and experience over a coffee. For more information email senchat@sendjo.org, telephone 07572 590119 or visit www.sendjo.org/SENchat.

Every Tuesday - Lunch Club A social gathering for older people over a two course, subsidised, meal. Spaces are now available in our lunch club so please contact Melbourn Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@mebournhub.co.uk Every Wednesday - Citizens Advice –9.30am-11.30am No need to book. Citizens Advice also offer pre-booked appointments in the afternoon; to book please contact Citizens Advice direct on 07469 517912.

Every Friday - Relationship Counselling East Anglia - 9.00am-12.00pm Offering relationship, autism relationship and personal counselling. Melbourn Hub is unable to make these bookings. To book a session, please contact Relate direct on (01302) 347886 or email counselling@relatecambridge.org.uk.

August Events Thursday 7th August - 10.00am-2.00pm We’re Going on A Hubby Bear Hunt A fun-filled family event as follows: 10.00am-10.30am Story Time; 10.00am2.00pm Bear Hunt plus colouring and craft table; 11.45am Teddy bear’s picnic half a sandwich, juice, crisps, yogurt and fruit. £5 per child. Booking essential.

For more details visit www.melbournhub.co.uk/events.

Monday 11th August - 10.00am-12.00pm - Tea and Sign Practise your sign language skills with a cuppa. For more information, contact Sally at bainessally@hotmail.com.

A Date for your Diary On Friday 3rd October, Megson the popular local folk group, will be performing at the Hub. Tickets are available online at www.melbournhub.co.uk/events.

Linsey Craike on behalf of Melbourn Hub 36

Wellbeing Support Would You or Someone You Know Benefit From Wellbeing Support?

Care Network Cambridgeshire’s Wellbeing Service offers free, short-term support for adults (18+) in South Cambridgeshire who may be struggling with confidence, isolation, illness, or low mood. Our friendly team can provide one-to-one support and match individuals with trained volunteers who can offer companionship through telephone calls or accompanying them to access the community. Support is tailored over six to eight sessions, helping people regain independence and feel more connected. If you or someone you know could benefit, making a referral is easy, just visit care-network.org.uk/wellbeing or contact us at wellbeing@care-network.org.uk or 0330 094 5750.

Abbie McMahon Wellbeing Coordinator Care Network Cambridgeshire

Wa n te d : Vo lu n te er Dr i ve r s Royston & District Community Transport Visit www.roytrans.co.uk or call (01763) 245228 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

37

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 3rd July 2025 This was held in the Community Room in Elin Way, with the main points set out below. The full formal minutes can be viewed in due course on the above website or on the Parish Council noticeboard; the minutes will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

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 32-24.

Village Traffic We have confirmation that the outstanding issues relating to the installation of the 20mph speed limit will shortly be attended to by County Highways. These include amending the signage approaching the entry point in North End, relocating a sign in Whitecroft Road adjacent to the sign marked on the road surface and installing dragon teeth markings on Station Road.

Village Maintenance and Infrastructure Other required works previously noted are listed for repair. The community is reminded that Highways issues are best reported to the authority, using the link given on page 43 of the Village Directory.

Finance Issues The Council’s reserves were reviewed. The latest figures show a ten-year horizon of projected income and expenditure. It was concluded that the Council is not overproviding for the future but has adequate and justifiable reserves.

Recreation Ground An alternative to the Monkey Wall will be considered. Plans for improvements to recreational facilities continue to be taken forward, including proposals for a hard surface five aside and basketball court.

Community Benefit Projects The repairs to the Village Hall car park have been completed.

Parish Burial Ground Work continues to bring our records up to date, a significant task as the records are in handwritten form and over 100 years old. The Council will be actively researching the availability of additional land for the burial ground as capacity appears to be limited.

Next Parish Council Meeting The next scheduled meeting will be on Thursday 4th September 2025 at 7.30pm at the Elin Way Community Room. There will be no regular meeting of the Parish Council in August.

Meldreth Parish Council 38

PC Repairs

MELDRETH

Advice & Installation of Home Networks Help with Selecting a computer

LANDSCAPES

Fault Finding Brian Girling 01223 208529 (Wimpole)

Design & Layout Plans

E-mail bg@moncraft.co.uk

Hard Landscaping & Lighting

We can also provide the following services: Design of brochures, posters, business cards, etc.

A4/A3 laminating • A4 comb-Binding Small print runs on A6 to A3 media

Planting & Water Features Little Hands Nursery School The Moor, Melbourn

Pergolas, Decking, etc

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

Tel: 01763 261463

We accept nursery funding giving 15 & 30 hours/week of free funded nursery for all 3 and 4 year olds & eligible 2 year olds

www.meldrethlandscapes.co.uk

For further information contact Sharon Tutty,nursery manager on 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com

Kneesworth Rd., Meldreth, Royston, Herts

Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk

MELDRETH PLANT HIRE TEL: 01763 262738

DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE. WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK

39

An Academy of

Everybody is Somebody Secondary School for students in Years 7-11 To book a tour email office@melbournvc.org or phone 01763 223400 www.melbournvc.org | Facebook.com/MelbournVillageCollege | @Melbourn_VC

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 40

Get Ready, Go Digital, Stay Connected Is Your Landline Ready?

Landlines are changing. By January 2027 (deadline confirmed by Openreach at time of publication), traditional landlines will be upgraded with digital technology. This national upgrade is known as the Digital Switchover and will mean that landline calls will be made over the internet instead of the old telephone network.

Telephone providers are responsible for switching customers to the upgraded service, but everyone is encouraged to check if and how the change will affect them, especially those who rely on their landline or use a telecare device. For many, the change will be simple. All you will have to do is plug your landline phone into a broadband router instead of a traditional phone socket. But for others, especially those who rely on their landline for care alarms, medical devices or staying in touch, it’s important to understand what the change means and what action they need to take in order to stay connected. Connecting Cambridgeshire is running the Get Ready, Go Digital, Stay Connected campaign to help local residents prepare form and feel confident about, the change. The switchover will mainly affect people without an internet connection at home, those who still rely on a traditional landline and users of telecare and personal alarm systems, call monitors or lifelines.

Three things to do today:  Contact your phone provider to find out if the change affects you.  Need support? Ask a trusted friend or family member to help.  Use a personal or call alarm? Contact your provider to ensure it will still work with the new system.

Look Out for Scams!

The switchover doesn’t require upfront payments. If you get a suspicious call, hang up and contact your telephone provider using the official number from a recent bill. Support each other; know someone who might need help? A quick conversation or offer to help them call their telephone provider could make a big difference.

No one should be left behind. Whether it’s you, a neighbour or a relative, now is the time to ask the question: Is your landline ready?

For more information, visit www.connectingcambridgeshire.co.uk/digitalswitchover or scan the QR code.

Katherine Hesketh Head of Communications, Keystone 41

-

One Stop Village Hall Bookings

(01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Book online: www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk

Village Hall Chairman

Andrew Young—07572 553647

Cycling Group Local History Group Lunch Club Melwood Cons. Group

John Rogger—(01763) 260809 (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Nikki & Julie—07599 292327 (01763) 232855; www.melwood.org.uk

Photographic Group

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440 Nicole Searle—(01763) 269561

Sport

Litter Picker

Bowls Club Croquet Club Table Tennis Tennis Club

David Rich—(01763) 262116 Janet Pope—(01763) 248239 John Richards—07938 907609 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

Vicar Bells Ian Mitchell (Friends) Churches Together

Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178 Jayne White—jayne.white1@ntlworld.com 07726 936635; www.foht.org.uk Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178

Councils & Govt.

Children

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Neighbourhood Watch

Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Laura Elvin—(01763) 261084 meldrethnhw@gmail.com

Church

Village Directory

Baby & Toddler Group Julia Moore—07403 462198 Brownies (1st Meldreth) Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com Guides (1st Meldreth) Email: 1stmeldrethguides@gmail.com Kelly@hartbeeps.com Hartbeeps 1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com Meldreth Rainbows Pre– and Primary School (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Parish Council

Please see details at end of Parish Council report

District Councillors

Jose Hales—07703 262649; Sally Ann Hart—07791 233303

District Council Offices

(01954) 713000; www.scambs.gov.uk/

County Councillor

Adam Bostanci adam.bostanci.mmbw@gmail.com

County Council Offices

0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Pippa Heylings; Pippa.heylings.mp@parliament.uk

MP

07400 236329 https://adambostanci.mycouncillor.org.uk

42

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 Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc.

www.thetrainline.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge

Report on SCDC website. For urgent faults use (01954)

Health

Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS

(01763) 260220 (01223) 805000 or (01223) 245151 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)

Childline Citizens Advice Bureau Community Support for Dementia Community Transport Home-Start Melbourn Time Bank Meldreth Food Bank Meldreth Village Hub Mind (mental health) Samaritans

0800 1111 (24 hours) 0808 2787808; www.citizensadvice.org.uk Davina Biswell 07961 574104 or Stephanie Trayhurn 07710 198299 (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk (01763) 263303; https://tol2.timebanking.org/melbourn Jo—07572 443522 Helen Meridew—07787 734973 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org

General Emergency Gas Electricity Anglian Water Cambridge Water

999 or 112 0800 111 999 0800 783 8838 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk

Crimestoppers Police

0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org 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

Misc.

NonEmerg.

Streetlights (faulty)

Support Services

http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travel-roadsand-parking/roads-and-pathways/roadworkd-and-faults In an emergency telephone 0345 045 5212

Emergencies

Transport

Station Ticket Office

713000 - Mon-Fri, 8am-5.30pm. Out of office hours: (01354) 65432. Give location, fault & SC or CCC no.

For details of village groups & facilities see the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

43

Advertising Rates Size per issue Half page £27.25 Quarter page £16.50 Eighth page/banner £8.75 Business listing per line

6 months £134.00 £74.00 £43.00 £11.00

12 months £216.00 £118.00 £65.00 £16.00

Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request.

For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on 07773 592838.

Index to Advertisers Meldreth Matters depends on advertising revenue to cover its production costs.

Melbourn Village College ................40 Meldreth Landscapes ......................39 Meldreth Maths Tutor ....................35 Meldreth Motor Company .........Cover Meldreth Plant Hire ........................39 Moncraft Computers ......................39 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service28 Penn Farm Physiotherapy .........Cover Queen Bee ........................................9 Richard Burns Electrician ..................4 Rod’s PC Support .............................2 The Royal Oak, Barrington .............13 Sage Blinds and Interiors .................28 Specialist Dental Partners ..................2 Swift Solutions ...............................31 Trademark Kitchens .......................18

A10 Timber ....................................31 AngliEAR Hearing .....................Cover Art of Clean ...................................35 Art of Clean Wood .........................18 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) .........35 Bury Lane Farm Shop .....................31 CHS Day Centre .............................18 CHS Group ....................................40 The Country Store ..........................31 Davey’s Butchers ............................25 Eve Construction ............................27 iPlaster ...........................................35 Lawn Partners ................................18 Little Hands Nursery School ...........39 Melbourn Auto Services .............Cover Melbourn Flooring .........................28

* Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers * The Meldreth Matters Team Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Editorial Assistants: Robin Farbridge, David Marsh; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 07773 592838; Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Distribution: Sharon Dunford 07415 171295 Founder: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available in colour online at https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters

44

Specialist Physiotherapists Keeping You Active 01223 874433 pennfarmphysio.com

Haslingfield Scan for an appointment

Meldreth Matters is printed by Plumridge Printers 41 High St Linton 01223 891407