Meldreth Matters, March 2026

March 2026

In this issue …

Events include ...

History Group Melwood Wandlebury

FOHT Talk MVH Table Top Sale Easter Market

Spring is just around the corner, here’s what’s blooming at The Royal Oak this month: A Fresh Start with Our New Spring Menu. Spring has sprung, and so have fresh, seasonal flavours! Dive into our new Spring Menu – a feast for the senses. Come & taste the season.

Pie Week Celebration: Monday, 2nd – Sunday, 8th March It’s Pie Week, and we’re serving up comfort on a plate! Enjoy our traditional, lovingly made pies: a pie & a pint* for just £20. (*options include 125ml house wine or house lager.)

Cheers to Cambridge Half Marathon Runners: Sunday, 8th March Cambridge Half Marathon finishers: congratulations! Show your medal & enjoy a free Sticky Toffee Pudding. 3 of our team members are running this year. Be sure to cheer them on!

Afternoon Tea Returns: Thursday, 12th March | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Afternoon Tea is back! Indulge in a delightful spread of sweet & savoury treats, with prices from £22 to £27. It’s the perfect way to catch up with friends or family over tea & treats.

Mother’s Day Magic: Sunday, 15th March | 12 PM – 7 PM Make this Mother’s Day special! Treat your loved one to a delicious meal while our talented magician sprinkles a little wonder. Book early to secure your table – it’s a day to remember!

Quiz Night for a Cause: Sunday, 29th March | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Could you be the trivia champ? Gather a team and join us for a fun evening of brain-teasing questions. Entry: £2 per person (proceeds to ‘Forget-Me-Not’ charity).

Warm wishes, Amelie & The Royal Oak Team

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Contents Gardening and Nature A Meldreth Garden 24-25 Melwood 26

What’s On in Meldreth Dementia Open Day 18 Easter Market Back cover Table Top Sale 9

Miscellaneous Melbourn Hub 36-37 MM Advertising Offer 7 Rowan Secret Postcard 18 Things to Do in March 16-17 Wandlebury 25

Village Groups Community Rail Partnership 34 Friends of Holy Trinity 4 History Group 7 Photographic Group 11 Women’s Group 10

Local Government Local Councillors 29-31 Local Govt Reorganisation 35 MPC Elections 28 Neighbourhood Plan 31 Parish Council 32-33 Planning 35

Village News & Issues Christian Unity 6 Church Fete Date 6 Dogs 3 Holy Trinity Update 5 Neighbourhood Watch 23 Parish Charities 19 Village Hall 8-9

Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 40 Home-Start 37 Mobile Warden Scheme 10 Refuse Collections 20 Village Directory 38-39

Children & Education Activities for Families 12 Primary School 14

This month’s cover picture: Tree Sculpture at the British Queen 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.

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.

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Editorial This March issue has details of interesting events and discussions, including evidence of Vikings at Wandlebury. FOHT has a speaker on Regenerative Farming and MVH is running a Table Top sale. Also there is an Easter Market and a Dementia Awareness Open Day. Our district councillor provides information about the pothole outbreak and the upcoming Parish Council elections while MPC reports on the launch of a Neighbourhood Plan.

Government plans to reorganise Cambridgeshire’s seven councils into two new unitary councils is discussed in several texts. Sadly, we hear of people not disposing of their dogs’ faeces while NHW gives us valuable information on keyless car theft. Finally, a reminder of our Advertising Offer; details on page 7.

Robin Farbridge Assistant Editor

MM is available in colour online To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters

British Queen - a public plea I saw the following piece posted on Instagram by the British Queen team and was so appalled that I offered to include it in MM. That some people seem to think it is alright to leave dog poo bags, complete with contents, on other people's properties when they should be disposing of them in the bins provided, or taking them to dispose of at home, is thoughtless. Whoever does it needs to ask themselves if it would be alright for other dog owners to place used bags on their property. Below is what the BQ posted.

Lesley Farbridge ‘Over the last few months, every day, members of our team go out and collect up all different dog poo bags from our property. We are now considering placing wildlife cameras to see if we can identify the people who seem to think it's ok to litter dog poo all over the place. We have the same person every day hang a green bag on the bridge, lots of bags scattered on the lawns and lots just not picked up at all. This is a reminder that the pub is privately owned, with a permissive footpath. However this will not continue if people do not start respectfully clearing up their dog mess and kindly popping it in a bin! It is unfair to the patrons of the pub, the children that visit and play outside or the team having to clear up the mess. Please respectfully clear up after your dog!’

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Friends of Holy Trinity Events for 2026 Our ideas for events during 2026 are gradually developing so please look out for further announcements in future issues of this publication.

March Thursday 19th March at 7.00pm we have an illustrated talk on Regenerative Farming which aims to make farming financially viable and environmentally sustainable. A fascinating topic presented by enthusiastic local Caxton farmer Tom Pearson and which may include excerpts from the documentary film ‘Six Inches of Soil’. Please reserve your seats by contacting Julie Draper on 07976 879350 or me; contact details below. Tickets £10 each payable at the door by cash or card and will include a complimentary refreshment.

April The ‘This is My Theatre’ company will be returning with Jane Eyre at 7.00pm on Friday 10th April. Tickets now available at: https://www.thisismytheatre.com/jane-eyre There will be a licensed bar available before the performance starts and during the interval. We ask you to order your interval drinks beforehand if possible, to avoid a scrum at half time!

September The ‘This is My Theatre’ company will be returning later this year with Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at 7.00pm on Saturday 5th September. Tickets will become available later online: https://www.thisismytheatre.com The 21st Anniversary Classic Car Show will be Sunday 13th September to coincide with the Duxford Air Show, in the hope of getting a flypast by some historic aircraft.

Thank you all for your continued support for the Friends, through attending our events and through your regular donations and subscriptions. We are always keen to receive ideas for further events so please get in touch if you have any ideas or would like to get involved in running some of them. More hands are always welcome!

Ian Mitchell, Vice Chair FOHT ianmmeldreth@gmail.com or 07726 936635 4

Roof Repairs at Holy Trinity, Meldreth: An Update Anyone who has glanced upward in recent months will know that our much loved church roof has been showing signs of strain. After a period of careful assessment and consultation, we’re pleased that an engineer has now been formally appointed to advise over the next stage of the repairs and will be attending the church at the earliest opportunity to carry out a detailed inspection. This visit will help us understand the full scope of the work required and ensure that any repairs are carried out safely, sensitively, and in keeping with the character of our historic building.

Alongside this, many of you will already know that I will be leaving the Benefice in April to take up the role of Chaplain to the Bishop of Peterborough. It is a great privilege, and one I approach with gratitude for all that we have shared here.

I remain fully committed to supporting the parish through this period of transition, including the early stages of the roof project, and will ensure that everything is handed over clearly and carefully. Thank you for your patience, your prayers, and your ongoing support for the life and fabric of Holy Trinity. As ever, we remain committed to caring for our building so that it continues to serve as a place of worship, welcome, and witness for generations to come.

Andrew

Contact details : David on 07979 752181 or mail davideggison@btinternet.com

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Week of Prayer for Christian Unity The week ran from 18th January to the 25th and The Churches Together in Melbourn and Meldreth marked this by coming together for a joint service on the 18th at The United Reformed Church at 3.00pm in the afternoon. There were people from all the local churches present and we followed the service sheet which had been prepared by the people of Armenia.

The theme was ‘One Body One Spirit’ and the main text used was Ephesians 4 v 1 -13 which includes the words ‘There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling.’ (Ephesians 4:4). Jenny Hughes, one of the ministers of The Baptist Church, preached on this reading and started with a challenge of how many Christian denominations there are in the world, in the USA and in the UK; no, we didn’t know either! We were challenged to think about what unites us rather than what divides us.

Clergy and members of the churches led the service and during the playing of a worship song, the members of the congregation were invited to come and light a candle as a symbol of unity.

Our thanks to Alex Fender for playing the organ and to those who provided the refreshments which also gave us the opportunity to come together and chat afterwards.

We hope to be having a joint service for World Day of Prayer on Friday 6th March and later one for Christian Aid Week which is 11th -17th May, so keep an eye out for more details.

Pat Smith

Meldreth Church Fete Save the Date! Saturday 27th June, 11.00am – 3.00pm Thank you so much everyone!

Toni and Pauline

Wante d: Vol unte e r Dri ve rs Royston & District Community Transport Visit www.roytrans.co.uk or call (01763) 245228 6

Meldreth Local History Group www.meldrethhistory.org.uk We will be having two research meetings this month. The first will be on Monday 2nd March from 10.00am to midday and the second will be on Tuesday 17th March from 7.00-9.00pm. Both meetings will take place in the community room in Elin Way and are open to all those who would like to take an active part in our group by researching or helping to research some local history topics or helping with our website or Facebook page. If you are interested in helping us, then please come along to one or both meetings.

2026 AGM On Monday 13th April from 10.00am to midday we will be holding a brief AGM in the Elin Way community room. This will be followed by an update on some of our current projects. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.

Further Information In addition to our website, www.meldrethhistory.org.uk, we have uploaded over 1,000 images of Meldreth to the Cambridgeshire Community Archive Network, meldreth.ccan.co.uk. We also have a Facebook page which has over 1,000 followers, www.facebook.com/meldrethhistory.

As a group, we are very proud of what we have achieved over the last nineteen years. Unfortunately, we now have very few active members and to ensure the continuation of the group we need to attract new members. If you are interested in helping us, please come along to one of our meetings or email us on info@meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Kathryn Betts MLHG Webmaster

Meldreth Matters Advertising Offer Reach 900 houses and businesses in Meldreth every month by advertising in Meldreth Matters. The first four companies or individuals who pay £118 for a quarter page advertisement for one year will receive an additional three months free of charge. This offer is open to companies or individuals who do not currently advertise with us. If you would like to take advantage of this offer, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

The Meldreth Matters Team 7

Meldreth Village Hall www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk Meldreth’s Spring Double: One Tabletop Sale + One Race Night Meldreth, it’s time to dust off your calendars and warm up your wallets because two gloriously chaotic community fundraising events are galloping your way.

Expect sale bargains and practice betting and the realisation that your neighbour has named their imaginary racehorse something spectacularly questionable.

Tabletop Sale Saturday 28th March 9.0am-12.30pm This Tabletop Sale is calling your name! Ideal if your attic is groaning, your cupboards are sighing, or you just fancy re-homing the ‘perfectly good‘ things you’ve been tripping over for months. Expect bargains, curiosities, and at least one shopper who claims they’re ‘just browsing’ before leaving with a Victorian teapot, a stack of obsolete DVDs, and a pineapple shaped lampshade. £10 per table, 50p entry; to book a table: 07572 553647 or email NannaT2020@outlook.com The Great Meldreth Race Night Saturday 25th April from 7.00pm And now the main event. A night of cheering, laughing, wildly strategic betting, and community spirit strong enough to power the hall’s kettle for a month. This is Meldreth’s noisiest, liveliest, most competitive evening of the year and everyone is welcome. £3 per person (up to 8 per table). To book your place, contact Andrew on 07572 553647 or email chair@meldrethvillagehall.co.uk How does a Race Night Work? Here’s the simple version. Bring yourself and some cash (cards and cash at the bar, cash only at the Tote because we own exactly one card machine and it frightens easily). We’ll show eight races on the big screen, real recordings from tracks around the world. Each race has eight horses. You simply buy £1 tickets for whichever horse you want to back; buy one, ten, or twenty for the same horse. Once the race is shown, everyone who backed the winning horse splits half the money and the other half supports the Village Hall. (example: 90 tickets sold = £90, £45 goes to the Hall, £45 shared among the winning tickets. If 20 people picked the winner, they each get £2.25.

As easy as that). We are looking for sponsors for each race and horse. Fancy giving an entertaining name to a horse? Anything goes, within reason. Some early suggestions: Sir Neighs A Lot, Meldreth Thunderpants and I Thought This Was Bingo. Suggested donation: £25 per race and offers above £2 per horse (eight horses per race — grab one early!). See You There. These events keep our Village Hall running and keep our village wonderfully connected, lively, and proudly quirky. Two events and one brilliant community. All monies raised go towards the management and running of MVH. Andrew Young Chair@meldrethvillagehall.co.uk 8

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

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

January was our AGM when we enjoyed a Bring and Share Supper. At this meeting we voted almost unanimously for the charity ‘Maggies’ which we will support in 2026. We also welcomed two new members to our committee, namely Lyn Damant and Pat Ames. In February we will have had a talk by the Rev. Andrew Birks entitled ‘Lent Reflection’. Our March meeting is on the 24th and will be in Melbourn when our speaker is a representative of the charity, Addenbrookes Charitable Trust.

If you require any information about our group or a lift to a meeting, please telephone one of our committee members. They are Diane Blundell (01763) 221415, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Angela Leach (01763) 262793 and Janet Backer (01763) 221492. We look forward to welcoming you.

Angela Leach

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 07426 847229 or email headwarden@mmws.org.uk.

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme is a registered charity

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Melbourn and District Photographic Club www.melbournphotoclub.com With the season drawing to a close before the summer recess, we have a programme of three competitions, two lectures and the AGM. As follows: 3rd Floral Creativity. Tony North (Zoom) 10th Three Counties Club Competition, Ben Pike 17th Print of the Year, Naomi Saul Time to Reflect: Linda Marshall 24th Inspiration and Motivation in Photography, Ann Miles 26th Pairs Trophy/Panel Print, Naomi Saul (7th April AGM & Awards)

Our meetings are held weekly from 7.30 - 9.30pm on Tuesdays at the Foxton Village Hall from September to April. The Club has a friendly, supportive atmosphere and always welcomes new members, whatever their ability. If you are interested in joining, we are happy for you to come along for up to two meetings for free before deciding. For details about the Club, and to see some of our work, visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com.

Peter North, Secretary

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Things for children and families to do in March 2026 Every Thursday to Sunday 9.00am to 3.00pm (Sunday 10.00am - 1.00pm) Jungle Sensory Room Unit 8b, Highfields Farm, Old North Road, Bassingbourn SG8 5JT Soft lights, gentle sounds, colours, textures and jungle-themed adventures encouraging sensory development. For ages 0 to 3years. Also SEN sessions for 0 to 7years. £10/£12 adult+ child. To book visit: www.junglesensory.com.

Sunday 1st to Sunday 15th March, 10.30am to 4.00pm Hop into the Wild Family Trail, Wimpole Estate, Arrington SG8 0BW Celebrating the release of Disney and Pixar’s ‘Hoppers’ with storytelling and outdoor play. For children 6 to 11 years. Free activity but normal admission applies; National Trust members free.

Wednesday 4th March, 9.45am - 10.45am Museum Tots - Transport, Royston Museum SG8 5AL Stories, songs, crafts and activities for children under 5 and their adult. £4 per child. Book on www.tickettailor.com.

Saturday 7th March, 1.00pm - 4.00pm Thriving Beyond the Label Community Event Storey’s Field Centre, Eddington Avenue, Cambridge CB3 1AA Free event for parents/carers of neurodivergent children and those with additional needs. Speech and language and health check consultations, discussions with experts in Education, Speech and Language, Music Therapy, Healthcare and resource centre. Play area for children. Book on www.visitcambridge.org.

Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd March, 10.00am - 5.00pm Thriplow Daffodil Weekend Activities, stalls, street food, refreshments, live music. Adults £12, 5 - 16 years £6, under 5s free. Parking £1. Book on: www.thriplowdaffodils.org.uk.

Saturday 21st, 10.00am - 4.00pm & Sunday 22nd March, 9.00am till late Great Chishill Windmill Craft Fair Weekend Stalls, refreshments, hand bells, marmalade breakfast, photographic competition, live music. Free entry. From 7.30pm, dancing to The Elderlys, and chilli supper (£10pp). Tickets (01763) 838044.

Monday 30th and Tuesday 31st March, 11.30am and 2.00pm Tiny Planet, Cambridge Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX Puppetry, live folk songs, percussion and camera projection bringing a miniature world to life. Uncover the mysteries that keep earth turning. Adults £15.50, children £11. For ages 5+. Book on www.junction.co.uk.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

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Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Spring has started to arrive at Meldreth Primary, clearing out the cobwebs left by the cold and bringing some tentative sunshine.

We have been extremely busy with the children enjoying a whole range of amazing activities. Throughout the corridors of school, the sweet melodies and raised voices of talented thespians and singers can be heard as our lower KS2 students in Years 3 & 4 are gearing up for their production of ‘Plastic Pirates.’ Love was truly in the air as our students wore red or pink in honour of Valentine’s Day and to celebrate ‘Love Your Home Start Day’. In addition to this, the children were treated to a fantastic cake sale by our talented Year 3 bakers! Our dedicated and passionate Junior Travel Ambassadors have also been hard at work, designing a range of competitions to help promote safe and healthier travel to school by prioritising walking and cycling over driving. Indeed, they are planning to attach the famous ‘golden padlock’ to a random bike or scooter every day for a week in a bid to encourage more people to scoot or cycle in to school, with those lucky children awarded travel-related prizes! Hot off the heels of victory in the Small Schools Cross Country Competition, our brilliant Meldreth sports teams have continued their winning ways with our hockey team performing brilliantly in the local Quicksticks Competition. As if this wasn’t enough to celebrate, our students are also looking forward to some fantastic enrichment activities. Our Year 2s enjoyed an amazing time at Sedgwick Museum whilst our Year 6s welcomed a speaker from the G2G organisation, learning about the survival of a speaker’s family during the Holocaust.

Daniel Chapman Assistant Headteacher

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Things to do in March Here are some things happening in the local area this month. If you want to let us know about any future event or activity please email: meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Sunday 1st March, 9.00am to 3.00pm Antiques and Vintage Fair Barkway Village Hall, 4 Cambridge Road SG8 8BS Friendly village fair with around 20 stalls full of antiques, collectables and vintage items. Tea room. Free parking. Admission £1 per person Saturday 7th March, 8.00pm Foyer Jazz - The Dan Forshaw Quartet Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CU11 4UH Saxophonist Dan Forshaw plays John Coltrane’s music, marking the legendary jazzman’s centenary. Relaxed, cabaret-style table seating. Full bar and food van fare. Tickets from £18. Book at www.saffronhall.com.

Wednesday March 11th, 10.30am to 12.30pm Woodlands and Wildlife Wandlebury Country Park, Gog Magog, Cambridge CB22 3AE Guided walk with one of the wardens to explore Wandlebury’s habitats and wildlife. Meet at large noticeboard in car park. Free event with donations welcome. Book on www.cambridgeppf.org or just turn up Friday 13th March, 3.00pm to 3.45pm From Darwin to Dodos University of Cambridge Museum of Zoology David Attenborough Building, Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EJ Free, expert-led tour of the Museum. Join their guide and uncover fascinating facts about their collection from the spectacular fin whale to the dodo and the beetles collected by Charles Darwin. Limited places - reserve yours on www.museum.zoo.cam.ac.uk. Tour repeats monthly.

Friday 13th March, 7.30pm to 9.30pm Royston Arts Society Monthly Artist Demo Market Hill Rooms, Fish Hill, Royston 2G8 9DW This month’s theme is ‘Cézanne and Still Life - an Exploration of Composition and Colour in Oils’, led by Eileen Chamberlain. Society members free; nonmembers £4. Pay at the door; no need to pre-book.

From Monday 16th March to Thursday 2nd April The Cambridge Festival - throughout Cambridge and online Free talks, films, exhibitions, walks and family events. To find out more and book individual events visit: www.festival.cam.ac.

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Monday 16th March, 7.30pm Cambridge University Symphony Orchestra at Ely Cathedral Chapter House, The College, Ely CB7 4DL Cambridge’s premier, student-run symphony orchestra plays for the first time in Ely Cathedral. Featuring 6 vocal soloists and over 80 student musicians performing works by Mozart, Puccini and Sibelius. Tickets from £15 with concessions for students and over 60s. Book at www.elycathedral.org.

Wednesday 18th March, 5.30pm to 6.30pm How the British Fell in Love with Curry Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Downing Street CB2 3DZ Professional chef Monisha Bharadwaj will talk about the evolution of one of the UK’s favourite foods, tracing how the curry we eat today has adapted over 200 years of British history from the early importation of spices by the East India Company and the first curry houses in the east end of London. Pay as you wish; suggested donation £8. Book on www.eventbrite.com.

Wednesday 18th March 2026, 7.15pm to 8.30pm History of Hertfordshire’s de Havilland Aircraft Company Royston Museum, 5 Lower King Street, Royston SG8 5AL Engineer Alistair Hodgson tells the story of Geoffrey de Havilland’s first flights in a home-made aeroplane, through the development of wooden aircraft construction (leading to the wartime Mosquito) and on to the Comet - the world’s first jet airliner. Tickets £6 from www.tickettailor.com.

Sunday 22nd March, 2.00pm to 5.00pm Charity Open Day for National Garden Scheme Benington Lordship Gardens near Stevenage, SG2 7BS At the end of March this lovely, tranquil Hertfordshire garden is a sea of blue scilla, offset by daffodils and trees in blossom. Tickets: Adults £9; children under 16 £4; under 3, free. Raising funds for health and nursing charities.

Saturday 28th March, 10.30am to 4.00pm Royston and District Model Railway Exhibition 2026 Bassingbourn Village College, South End, Bassingbourn SG8 5NJ A great day out for railway enthusiasts of all ages with 21 layouts to enjoy. Entry price £5 for adults; accompanied children free. Refreshments, cakes and biscuits available in refectory. More details to follow: www.roystonmrc.co.uk.

Saturday 28th March, 2.00pm to 4.30pm Home-Start’s Got Talent King James Academy Senior Site, Garden Walk, Royston SG8 7JH Come along to Home-Start’s Got Talent for a fun family show, supporting local families. Book your tickets for an uplifting afternoon on www.hsrsc.org.uk; admin@hsrsc.org.uk or call (01763) 262262.

Compiled by John Crawforth 17

Open Day & Demen a Awareness Workshop Saturday 7th March 202610 am – 3 pm Meldreth Village Hall Meldreth SG8 6LX Tea, coffee and cake will be served during the day.

If you are ‘living with’ or ‘caring for’ a loved one who has received a diagnosis of any form of demen a, you may be looking for help, advice and support whilst you are trying to navigate this very difficult period in your lives.

Our Open Day will have different stalls where you can obtain informa on on Day Centres, Care Agencies, Benefits available, Safe and Inclusive Groups and Ac vi es, Technology Aids, Personal Hygiene, Mobility Aids, Reading materials and much more.

On the day, we will be holding Demen a Awareness Workshops at 10.30 am and 1.30 pm, which are free to families and personal carers.

Run by Demen a Training specialist Chris Elsley, who will cover prac cal ps and help for those who are caring for a loved one ‘living with demen a’. These workshops have proved to be very successful therefore places will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Please book your place on a workshop by contac ng Davina Tel: 07961 574104 Email: davinabiswell@gmail.com

The Secret Postcard Art Exhibition

MELDRETH MATHS TUTOR

All proceeds from this event support Rowan and all we do for adults with learning disabilities in the surrounding areas. Our annual exhibition is vital for our fundraising income for the year.

Thank you for your support.

Contact:

Hetti King Marketing and Communications Manager (01223) 566027

Fully DBS Checked

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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 19

Meldreth Village D Monday

Tuesday

10.00am-11.00 F. Fitness 9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 10.00-12.00 History Group 11.00am-Stations of the 11.00am-12.00 TP Pilates Cross

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Wednesday

Thurs

10.30am-3.30p 12.00-3.00pm 1.30-2.45pm Lift Off Choir 4.00-5.00 Acro 6.00-6.45pm T 6.00-7.30pm Brownies 7.00-9.00pm T 6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point 7.30pm Parish Pilates 9.15-11.15am Stay & Play Group

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1.00-3.00pm Hope Active 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance 5.00-6.15pm Rainbows 6.30-8.00pm Guides

12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

10.00am-11.00 Functional Fitness

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank

9.15-11.15am Stay & Play

11.00am-Stations of the Cross

1.30-2.45pm Lift Off Choir 12.00-3.00pm 6.00-7.30pm Brownies 4.00-5.00 Acr 6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 6.00-6.45pm T

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11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance 5.00-6.15pm Rainbows 6.30-8.00pm Guides 10.00am-11.00 Functional Fitness

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

10.30am-3.30

10 11 12

12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 7.30-8.20pm TP Pilates 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 11.00am-Stations of the Cross

7.00-9.00pm T

9.15-11.15am Stay & Play

10.30am-3.30 1.30-2.45pm Lift Off Choir 12.00-3.00pm 4.00-5.00 Acr 6.00-7.30pm Brownies 6.00-6.45pm T 6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm Trigger Point 7.00-9.00pm T 7.30pm FOHT Pilates (see page 4) 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

16 17 18 19

11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

4.00-6.30pm Street Dance 5.00-6.15pm Rainbows

7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics

7.00-9.00pm History Group

6.30-8.00pm Guides 10.00am-11.00 Functional Fitness 11.00am-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank 11.00am-Stations of the Cross

9.15-11.15am Stay & Play 10.45-11.30am M. Library 1.30-2.45pm Lift Off Choir 6.00-7.30pm Brownies 6.15-7.15pm Jazzercise 7.30-8.20pm T Point Pilates 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

10.30am-3.30

12.00-3.00pm

23 24 25 26 30 31

4.00-6.30pm Street Dance 5.00-6.15pm Rainbows

12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

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

6.30-8.00pm Guides

10.00am-Said Eucharist (BCP)

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

4.00-5.00 Acr

6.00-6.45pm T Pilates 7.00-9.00pm T

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank

12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

Refuse Collections Black bins: 10th, 24th Blue and green bins: 3rd, 17th, 31st

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

Get reminders on your mobile: download the Bin Collections app

10.00am-Said Eucharist (BCP) 11.00am-Stations of the Cross

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

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Diary - March 2026 Friday

rsday

Saturday

Sunday

0pm Crafters 9.30am Slimming World m Village Hub ro TP Pilates Table Tennis h Council

10.00am-3.00pm Dementia 9.45am Sung Eucharist Open Day-Awareness Workshop

9.30am Slimming World

9.45am Sung Eucharist

6

5

0pm Crafters

7 1 8

8.00am Said Eucharist

m Village Hub 12.15-1.45pm Dementia Sing-Along ro

2 13 14 15

TP Pilates

Table Tennis

18.00pm-22.30pm Home Start RBSC Charity Event

0pm Crafters 9.30am Slimming World m Village Hub ro TP Pilates Table Tennis T Talk

2.45-4.45pm Dementia Memory Café

0pm Crafters

9.00am-12.30pm Table Top Sale (see page 8)

9 20 21 22 9.30am Slimming World

m Village Hub

6 27 28 29

ro

Trigger Point

Last Day of Term

Table Tennis

SUPPORT MELDRETH MATTERS BY ADVERTISING IN THE MAGAZINE See page 3 for our special offer & page 40 for all rates For more information email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com

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

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.

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Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch www.facebook.com/meldrethnhw It was distressing to learn in early January that multiple cars in the village had been targeted in an overnight crime spree. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, news has just come in of another late-night vehicle theft. This therefore seems like a good time to reiterate some advice, based on information from the national Neighbourhood Watch website, about keeping your car safe.

Keyless car theft: Many modern cars feature keyless entry, allowing drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by means of a radio signal without physically using a key or pressing a fob button. Keyless car theft, or relay theft, is on the rise.

Car thieves, working in pairs, identify a house with a car parked nearby and one person stands by the car with a transmitter, while a second waves a relay amplifier around the perimeter of the house. If the car key is close enough, the amplifier can detect its signal, amplify it and send it to the accomplice’s transmitter. This transmitter then effectively becomes the key, and tricks the car into thinking the real key is nearby. The thieves can then open the car, get in and drive away. The whole process can take as little as 60 seconds and be completed in near silence meaning the owner may only notice the next day that their car is gone.

What can you do to avoid keyless theft?  Keep your keys far away from doors and windows. This will minimise the chances of a thief finding and amplifying the key’s signal. 

Purchase a Faraday pouch which contain signal-blocking materials that stop your key transmitting its code, preventing crooks from detecting and amplifying the signal. You can also check your car manual or speak to your dealer to find out if your key can be switched off.



Consider using a steering wheel lock, a driveway parking post, or even a wheel clamp.

General car safety advice: It goes without saying that you should always lock your vehicle, leave it in a well-lit spot and remove any belongings. In the January crime spree in Meldreth, lots of personal items were stolen from cars.

Other things you can do:  Store car ownership documents at home, not in your car 

Buy secure number plates with anti-theft screws from car accessory stores



Fit locking, anti-tamper wheel nuts to secure alloy wheels.

Don’t forget: by signing up to the Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch group, or by following our Facebook page, you can keep up to date with any incidents that occur in the village.

Laura Elvin (01763) 261084 meldrethnhw@gmail.com 23

A Meldreth Garden March is one of the busiest months for gardeners, with plenty of tasks to tackle before the growing season truly takes hold, but it can also be a difficult month as cold and wet weather may still linger. But Winter is over and March marks the exciting transition into Spring. I usher in; daffodils, crocus, forget-me-not, pulmonaria and wallflowers, grown to hide the legs of the tulips after flowering; Fritillaria of various cultivars, grape hyacinth Muscari in white and blue, and barrenwort Epimediums in the shady areas at the back of the borders; Primulas and cowslips along with their mixed heritage progeny which appear as welcome but uninvited guests and also Violas, outdoor hyacinths and Forbes' squill Chionodoxa fordesii, etc. all flowering in this season.

Preparing the Soil As temperatures begin to rise, the soil starts to dry out and warm up. This is the perfect time to prepare beds for spring planting. Apply a generous layer of wellrotted compost or manure to vegetable patches and borders, then gently fork it through. Avoid working the soil when waterlogged, as this can damage soil structure.

Sowing and Growing March is ideal for sowing hardy vegetables directly outdoors. Broad beans, peas, spinach, and early carrots can all go in now, though a cloches or fleece may be needed if cold weather prevails. I have sown peas, lettuce, beetroot, leeks and celeriac under cover. Tomatoes and peppers seedlings have been potted-on and now live on a sunny windowsill. Summer-flowering bulbs like gladioli can be planted now as they typically flower ten weeks from planting the corm.

Pruning and Tidying I have just pruned the roses before they come into full growth. Cutting back bush roses to outward-facing buds and removing any dead, damaged or diseased wood.

Now that winter flowering shrubs like mahonia are finished blooming I will prune, but I leave some flowerheads for the berries that blackbird and robins gorge on when ripe. I will prune the buddleia, and the dogwood Cornus and willow Salix grown for their colourful winter stems; they will be pruned as coppice or pollard, dependent on form. I’ll continue to clear away any remaining weeds, leaves and debris that have accumulated over winter to prevent pests and diseases from taking hold, especially slugs and snails.

Lawn Care March is good time to prepare the lawn. My lawn has already had its first cuts of the year on a high setting, after sharpening the lawn mower blades. I will be raking out the moss and thatch with an electric lawn rake, and digging out weeds especially dandelions and daisies. Then I will give the lawn a good feed with fish, blood and bone fertiliser, followed by edging for neatness. That will set the lawn up for the year ahead.

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Planting Out Towards the end of March and if the weather is mild, early potatoes like Duke of York, will be planted out; I aim for around St Patrick’s Day, the 17th. Potatoes have been chitted by standing them in egg boxes in a cool, light place until they developed short, sturdy shoots.

The allotment is providing a harvest including, rocket, swede, turnip, leeks, parsnips, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, carrots, beetroot and maincrop potatoes. The pink fir apples that I left in the ground are now degrading rapidly. The long white radish that I use as white turnip and celeriac, needs protection from severe frosts.

Good Gardening Iain McPhee mcpheia1@gmail.com

Viking Remains at Wandlebury During a training dig, Cambridge University undergraduate archaeologists and students have helped to unearth a possible Viking-era ‘execution pit’. The pit contained both complete and dismembered bodies which may date to when Cambridgeshire was a borderland between Saxon and Viking kingdoms, and includes an exceptionally tall individual whose skeleton, based on initial radiocarbon work dates from 772 – 891 AD, has a hole trepanned in his skull; the remains were likely from the aftermath of a battle or execution from around the 9th century AD. The training excavation, led by the Cambridge Archaeological Unit (CAU), took place at Wandlebury Country Park, famous for its ‘ringwork’: a series of banks and ditches that mark an Iron Age hill fort constructed a millennium before the Viking era. The pit, measuring four metres by one metre, was unearthed just outside the hillfort ringwork to the south. Archaeologists say the Iron Age features at Wandlebury would have made it a renowned meeting place in the early medieval period.

The University’s Department of Archaeology and CAU have worked with local charity Cambridge Past, Present and Future, who own Wandlebury, to conduct student training digs on the site for several years, but this is their most significant and grisly find on the site to date. Historic England, who are supporting the excavation and monitor and manage archaeology on protected scheduled monuments such as Wandlebury, have commissioned a new geophysical survey of the area that archaeologists hope will reveal more about the site surrounding the burial pit.

Louise Palmer Cambridge Past, Present and Future Email: marketing@cambridgeppf.org 25

Melwood Starts 2026 Despite the wet start to 2026, the show of snowdrops has been really good and more or less on schedule. There were rather more individual clumps that flowered early this year, a few making it before New Year and even hints at Christmas. The warm end to 2025 can probably be thanked for that. Hard work by our small team of regular workers also contributed to the show in general, by ensuring that the area where the snowdrops grow was well cut in the autumn, so that the bulbs were not smothered as they came through. The aconites continue to survive in their original location and a few very small clumps emerged at the opposite end of the wood but a promising new clump that flowered well last year has not put in an appearance so far this year. This is disappointing and a bit of a mystery, as the spot where they were seems perfectly suitable. The autumn gales provided us with some timber for edging the paths and with the public helping by only walking within the marked routes, the path verges remain green and supportive of some small flowering plants. This will be even more valuable next year, as we seek to introduce more species, such as Primroses, into the verges to enhance the show for walkers as well as the native wildlife. The first work party of 2026 was devoted primarily to the nest boxes. All those that could be reached with the aid of a small ladder were checked for damage and cleaned in preparation for the coming breeding season. Most appeared to have been used last year and the damage from squirrels and woodpeckers was not too severe. A few boxes were considered too high to be accessed safely and as these become less attractive due to damage or old age, we will need to introduce new boxes at easier heights.

There are good populations of Bluetit and Great Tit in the wood and a reasonable supply of food in local gardens for when the supply of caterpillars becomes too difficult. Most of the moth species which lay eggs that over-winter on the trees and bushes have declined seriously or disappeared completely from this area. The Winter Moth, which used to be a major source of caterpillars, is rarely encountered these days. Bluetits used to time their breeding season by the emergence of these caterpillars. A few new flowers have been introduced into the meadow and we hope to see these flowering this summer. The difficult bit will be to keep the grasses short without damaging larger flowers. In the wood, we will be continuing to control invasive species by brush-cutting and coppicing. Nettles and ground Ivy may need more of a ‘Hands on’ approach. Increasing the light reaching the floor of the wood will help flowers in the wood but we must prepare for the loss of some of the mature Ash trees due to Ash die-back disease and start planting replacements soon. The next work party is on Saturday March 28th, meeting about 9.45am so new helpers please come along on the day or express interest via the website: www.melwood.org.uk Jim Reid Melwood Conservation Group 26

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Meldreth Parish Council Elections Thursday 7th May 2026 Are you interested in becoming a Parish Councillor? If so, contact the Parish Clerk on (01763) 269928 or email:parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk If you have thought of becoming a Parish Councillor, would you like to find out more about what is involved? Perhaps you have been on a Council elsewhere. If you would like to find out what goes on at a council meeting, just come along to the Village Hall on the Third Thursday of the month at 7.30pm or contact the Clerk for further information.

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District and County Councillor Report This month, we highlight two government consultations that will have a bearing on the evolution of our area. With local elections for South Cambridgeshire District and Meldreth Parish Council on Thursday 7th May, there is also an opportunity to stand for election and become a councillor and influence that evolution.

Highways As the wet and cold take their toll, the council has significantly increased the deployment of resources to tackle the repairs. During February, 32 crews (up from the usual 8) and three dragon patchers were working to repair potholes. Well above 1,000 potholes are repaired each week across Cambridgeshire. In addition, work is under way to strengthen maintenance contracts and responses to urgent defects. In the last three years, the County Council has more than doubled the annual amount spent on highway maintenance to £73 million, this in the context of tight local authority budgets and other statutory funding obligations. And yet, the council is still working through decades of underinvestment, which has left Cambridgeshire with incredibly poor road surfaces and an estimated £800m repair bill. The outlook is improving, after a reorganisation of the highways department and the introduction of a new asset management system. Last summer, significant areas of deterioration were tackled with large patches and much overdue vegetation management was carried out. Please continue to report issues: https:// www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travel-roads-and-parking/roads-andpathways/roadworks-and-faults Local Government Reorganisation The government has now launched its own consultation to seek views on the options for local government reorganisation. In our area, two main options are in play for a future unitary authority. Very likely, South Cambridgeshire District will either merge with Cambridge City Council to form a ‘Greater Cambridge’ unitary authority, or merge with Cambridge City and East Cambridgeshire to form a ‘South-East Cambridgeshire’ unitary authority. While most other parts of Cambridgeshire would prefer to merge with the uniquely successful City of Cambridge, our area will very likely do so. The consultation, with the opportunity to comment on all the options for the Reorganisation, closes Thursday 26 March 2026.

See: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/local-governmentreorganisation-in-cambridgeshire-and-peterborough/proposals-for-localgovernment-reorganisation-in-cambridgeshire-and-peterborough Greater Cambridge Development Corporation Wishing to build on Cambridge’s success, the government is proposing to create a centrally led Greater Cambridge Development Corporation which, if established, would extend the remit of the existing Cambridge Growth Company. Initially, the DevCo would focus on delivery of the housing development identified in the emerging Greater Cambridge Local Plan, with planning powers to determine large 29

developments. The ambition is that development would be infrastructure-led, and the DevCo would have the ear of government in addressing challenges relating to transport and water. At a recent information event, representatives from parish and town council stressed the need to adopt a strategic and long-term approach to development and be mindful of the needs of younger people and of business, including in villages such as ours; transport challenges were mentioned several times. The consultation is surprisingly short and closes on Wednesday 1st April 2026. See the link: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/establishing-adevelopment-corporation-in-greater-cambridge/establishing-a-developmentcorporation-in-greater-cambridge.

Signal box visit Adam joined the Community Rail Partnership’s visit to Foxton and Cambridge signal boxes in early February, to understand level crossing management since the full barriers were introduced at Meldreth Road crossing. Please see the CRP’s piece on page 34.

Buses The Bus User Group will meet Thursday March 5th between 12.00-1.00pm at Bassingbourn Old School Community Centre. We’ve received considerable feedback from bus users on current 17 and 26 services, all of which has been shared with the Combined Authority (the Transport Authority, which manages bus subsidies and liaises with bus operators). We will later report on this and what we have learned about the bigger picture and any changes for Cambridgeshire bus services.

Meldreth Parish Council needs new talent Have you ever considered standing as a candidate for our parish council? From the consultations mentioned above, it’s clear that our area will continue to evolve.

And change brings a need and opportunities for local councillors to press for the outcomes their communities wish to see. For example, the County Council’s Assets and Procurement Committee recently agreed to the use of some of its land for the next phases of the development of Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Who will hold those in power accountable, so that transport infrastructure promised as part of this £3 billion deal is correctly delivered? At Foxton, local councillors are uniquely positioned to ensure that the new level crossing introduced by Network Rail operates efficiently. And with the arrival of East West Rail and future economic growth across the region, might there be opportunities to press for the construction of a road bridge or underpass at Foxton?

Adam Bostanci plans to step down as a parish councillor but will continue to represent Meldreth as county councillor. Those wishing to stand as a candidate for parish elections need to complete a nomination form; the nomination period opens on Monday 30th March and closes on Thursday 9th April at 4.00pm. All nomination papers must be delivered by hand to the Elections department at South Cambridgeshire District Council.

30

Feedback on SCDC services A reminder that SCDC has a new mechanism designed to enable feedback on its services from residents, businesses, Parish Councils and any other clients. Please use this link: https://www.scambs.gov.uk/feedback-and-complaints Zoom cuppa We hold regular ‘Zoom Cuppa’ sessions. Please drop us a line if you have any questions or concerns.

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

Meldreth Neighbourhood Plan - Launched Visit meldrethplan.org.uk for the latest news and project materials. You can access the documents mentioned here by adding the shortcut code to our web address (for example, meldrethplan.org.uk/a1 will take you directly to the launch materials shown here as /a1).

Following a well-attended launch meeting at /a1, we have now moved into the data collection phase. This work is particularly significant given the government’s announcement on the 2nd February of a Cambridge Development Corporation including Meldreth; details at /a4.

The Parish Clerk is currently contacting established village groups at /a2 to discuss their current work and their ambitions for the next 20 years at /a3. However, it is essential that the Plan reflects all aspects of our community, so we are looking for ‘advocates’ to help shape other areas. Whether you have a vision for Meldreth’s aesthetics and conservation, or ideas for new activities, we would value your input. If any aspect of village life isn't represented in these early stages, it risks being overlooked when it comes to future planning. If you care about a specific spot that’s missing, please get in touch. Please contact Roger James or email us at info@meldrethplan.org.uk.

During the summer, we will be seeking volunteers for the core team to draft the plan and manage the consultation process. We are also looking forward to several interesting student projects during the 2026/27 academic year. If you would like to get involved or volunteer early, please see the information at /a5.

Roger James Vice Chair MPC

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Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 5th February 2026 The meeting was held in the Community Room in Elin Way. The main points are set out below in summary format. The full formal minutes can be viewed in due course on the website 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, to be seen on pages 29 to31. This draws attention to new bodies being set up to address local planning and development issues and currently there is considerable uncertainty about how these bodies will work together. Potholes continue to be a major and increasing concern for local residents; the report indicates that greater resources are being allocated to potholes by the County.

VillageTraffic For the 2026 LHI, a further Speed Indicator Device has been requested and the County’s decision on this is awaited. Discussions continue about the issues relating to a Private LHI relating to the junction at Fenny Lane/Whitecroft Road; the Traffic Working Group will report on this at our next Council meeting.

Village Maintenance Some repairs have now been made to the finger post at the Stocks but it is clear that work is needed on other parts of the post and the Council has agreed to have this carried out.

It is expected that repairs to the defibrillator telephone box in North End and the notice board opposite the shop will be carried out in the next month when, hopefully, the weather improves.

Finance/Mettle Hill In respect of the loan from the Public Works Loan Board (originally £122,500) for the purchase of the Mettle Hill site, the Council has repaid the current outstanding balance of £71,032 after a discount of £1,875 has been applied. It is intended that the annual sum of about £7,400 (the annual repayments that would have been necessary if the loan had continued) will be segregated in our accounts to establish a fund for community projects for the duration of the original term. The Council will be starting discussions with the SCDC planners with regard to potential options for possibly low cost and other housing and also for sports and/ or leisure activities. These ideas are at an early stage of thinking and our community will of course be fully informed throughout.

Recreation Ground The agreed proposals to develop our facilities will shortly be started; these include 32

a hard surface multi-use games area to accommodate five aside football and basketball/ netball; the zip wire will be renovated and moved to a new location nearby to accommodate the new pitch. This work is likely to cause some disruption and we ask that whilst this takes place residents take particular care when using the rec ground and its facilities. Essential repairs and maintenance to the play equipment already installed will shortly be carried out.

Trees There is a programme for planting new trees in the village and we are collaborating with our Tree Warden to identify where this can be carried out most effectively. The trees will be donated by various organisations.

Neighbourhood Plan We were pleased to report that the launch meeting at the Elin Way Community Room attracted a large number of local residents; the Council has agreed to proceed to the next stage of gathering information about local activities, both current and those thought to be of future interest. There will be full reports and appeals for assistance in Meldreth Matters as these steps are progressed.

Next Parish Council Meeting Thursday 5th March 2026 at 7.30pm in the Elin Way Community Room.

Meldreth Parish Council

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 #mes Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928

Assistant Clerk: Mrs Sally Walmesley 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

33

All correspondence should be directed to the Clerk in the first instance

Visit to Foxton Signal Box and Cambridge Signal Box With recent changes to the level crossing at Meldreth Road Shepreth – the half barrier having been replaced by a full barrier – downtimes have necessarily become longer, due to the protocols that come with the new system. Together with Foxton and Shepreth Station crossings, we now have three full barrier level crossings in close proximity, all managed by crossing keepers at Foxton Signal Box, who liaise with the Cambridge Signal Box. To understand how this new setup works, and to share concerns raised by local people, we asked Network Rail for a visit to Foxton and Cambridge signal boxes which took place in early February and was attended by local parish and county councillors and the County Council Transport team. It provided an insight into the balance of responsibilities of safety and scheduling on a very busy network. It was encouraging to learn that long downtimes at Meldreth Road crossing in its first weeks of operation have eased, though concerns continue about long downtimes at Shepreth Station crossing. We look forward to seeing Network Rail’s data on level crossing downtimes and road traffic impact analysis soon. Network Rail has a contact page at networkrail.co.uk/contact-us/, or you can ring them on 03457 11 41 41.

Susan van de Ven and Sarah Grove Cam Valley Community Rail Partnership camvalleycrp@gmail.com, sarah.grove@scambs.gov.uk

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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

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SCDC & Local Government Reorganisation The government is now consulting on four options to reorganise Cambridgeshire's seven councils into fewer unitary councils. The government plans for a shake up of local councils across the country which, in Cambridgeshire, would see all seven city, district and county councils reorganised into two or three new councils providing all local services from housing and planning to social care.

Alongside Cambridge City and East Cambridgeshire District councils, South Cambridge District Council believes that option B works best for people across Cambridgeshire. This option would replace the current seven councils with two new councils, one for Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire and one for North Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Option B could save £43 million a year, with savings reinvested into frontline services.

Find out more about option B Residents are invited to register to attend a webinar hosted by the three council leaders on Friday 6th March, from 5.00pm to 6.00pm. Leaders and representatives from all three councils will talk about the options and specifically their preferred option B proposal.

View the councils' presentation about option B and visit Local Government Reorganisation and read the detailed option B proposal submitted to government.

Take part in the government's consultation You can find out more about the four options being consulted on, and take part in the government's consultation, via our consultation platform: Project: Government consultation into local government r... | South Cambridgeshire District Council

Planning Matters Meldreth Parish Council Minutes of the planning meeting on Thursday January 8th were available; those of the planning meeting on Thursday 19th February were not available. Any recently added minutes can be found on the Parish Council website: www.meldrethpc.org.uk.

Planning Authority Decisions 26 North End 25/1447/TTCA Sycamore - Remove to ground level. No objection Street Record High Street 25/1439/TTPO Tree maintenance work on sycamore, beech and elm. Granted permission Details of all applications and Planning Authority decisions can be viewed online: https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.

The Meldreth Matters Team

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Melbourn Hub www.melbournhub.co.uk We will be having a Spring refresh at Melbourn Hub, with a new menu and a few other changes. And on Easter Monday, the 6th of April, we’ll be running an Easter family event. In March we will showcase artwork from a group of people with learning disabilities and complex health needs. Living in an environment supported by Dimensions (UK) Ltd, they enjoy regular art therapy sessions and are very excited to be able to show their pictures to the public. We hope that you will enjoy their work!

Did you know, Melbourn Hub is a registered charity? That means the money you spend in the Hub goes towards making sure we can provide a range of vital services to the local community and beyond.

Regular Services and 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. We have spaces available now so please contact Melbourn Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@mebournhub.co.uk if you are interested in coming along!

Every Tuesday – Cervical Screening – 1.00-8.00pm – for people registered with local GP practices. Email cpicb.meridiancare@nhs.net to book your appointment and one of their friendly Care Coordinators will get back to you.

Every Wednesday - Citizens Advice – from 9.30am-11.30am there is a drop-in session so no need to book. Citizens Advice also offer pre-booked appointments in the afternoon. Please contact Citizens Advice direct on 07469 517912.

Every Wednesday and Friday – Podiatrist – Lewis Slater provides podiatry services out of the Hub on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Please contact Lewis to find out more and to book – (01763) 263260.

Every Thursday – Osteopath – Tim Moynihan provides osteopathy out of the Hub on Thursdays. Check out our website for more details and contact Tim to book on: tim@boneclinic.co.uk.

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 so to book a session, please contact Relate on (01302) 347886 or counselling@relatecambridge.org.uk.

Every Friday – Children's Storytime for under 5s – 10.00am-10.30am - Come along for stories and singing. No need to book.

Cambridge Building Society – Mondays 12.00-3.00pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays 9.00am-12.00pm.

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Special for March Monday 9th March – Tea & Sign – 10.00am-12.00pm - Practise your sign language skills with a cuppa. Contact Sally at: bainessally@hotmail.com Saturday 14th March – 10.00am-2.00pm - Mother's Day pop-up shop – selling cakes and flowers!

Saturday 28th March – 10.00am – 2.00pm - Cervical Screening drop-in. Available for patients registered to local GP practices. Please note that waiting times may vary and you may not be seen straight away. For any questions please email cpicb.meridiancare@nhs.net and a care coordinators will get back to you.

For more details on all our events and services check out our website on www.melbournhub.co.uk Linsey Craike

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Village Directory -

Neighbourhood Watch

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

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

Photographic Group

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A

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

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

Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178 Jayne White—jayne.white1@ntlworld.com 07726 936635

Councils & Govt.

Children

Church

Sport

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Litter Picker

Ian Mitchell (Friends) Churches Together

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk; info@meldrethhistory.org.uk

Nikki & Julie—07599 292327 (01763) 232855; www.melwood.org.uk

Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178

Brownies (1st Meldreth) Guides (1st Meldreth) Meldreth Rainbows Pre– and Primary School

Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com Email: 1stmeldrethguides@gmail.com 1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Stay & Play Group

Frankie Harris 07765 250123

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

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Hours: Mon - Fri 7.00-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.15pm

Rail Partnership

www.camvalleycrp.org.uk; camvalleycrp@gmail.com

Govia/Great Northern

www.thameslinkrailway.com

The Trainline Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc.

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

Streetlights (faulty)

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) 0800 1111 (24 hours) 0808 2787808; www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Support Services

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

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

Emergencies

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

Non-Emerg.

Crimestoppers Police

0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org 101; www.cambs.police.uk

S Cambs Fire & Rescue Report Fraud

(01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk 0300 123 2040 reportfraud.police.uk

Misc.

Melbourn Hub

(01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com

Royston Taxis

(01763) 250811

Transport

Station Ticket Office

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

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6 months £134.00 £74.00 £43.00 £11.00

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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 A10 Timber ......................................13 Andrew Banks Wood Specialist…......15 AngliEAR Hearing ....................Cover Art of Clean ....................................34 Art of Clean Wood ..........................28 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) ...Cover Bury Lane Farm Shop ......................13 The Country Store ............................34 Davey’s Butchers ..............................11 Eve Construction ..............................15 Guy Charles Gardening .......................5 iPlaster .............................................34 Lawn Partners ..................................13 Little Hands Nursery School ............34 Melbourn Auto Services ...................19

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Melbourn Flooring ...........................27 Melbourn Village College..................28 Meldreth Landscapes .......................27 Meldreth Maths Tutor .....................18 Meldreth Motor Company .................9 Meldreth Plant Hire ...................Cover Moncraft Computers ........................28 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service .2 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ...................2 Richard Burns Electrician ....................2 Rod’s PC Support .............................22 The Royal Oak, Barrington ........Cover Sage Blinds and Interiors ..................27 Specialist Dental Partners .................22 Swift Solutions ...................................2

Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers

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Our bank details are as follows: Account Name: Meldreth Matters; Sort code: 60-11-11; Account No: 18493122

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

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