Meldreth Matters, September 2026

September 2026

In this issue …

Events include ...

Keep Meldreth Thriving Local History Group Neighbourhood Watch Schemes Primary School

Alice in Wonderland Bowls Club Quiz Night Car Show Fam Fest

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

Contents Gardening and Nature A Meldreth Garden 24-25

What’s On in Meldreth This Month Alice in Wonderland 9 Bowls Club Quiz Night 12 Car Show 9 & back cover Fam Fest 12 Rat Show 20

Miscellaneous Duxford Saturday Workshop 16-17 Foxton Singers 12 Melbourn Hub 28-29 MM Advertising Offer 36 Things to Do in September 26-27

Village Groups Friends of Holy Trinity 9 History Group 22-23 Women’s Group 6

Local Government Local Councillors 33-35 Parish Council 29, 30 Planning 29

Village News & Issues Auction of Promises 3 Keeping Meldreth Thriving 4-5 Neighbourhood Watch 10-11 Parish Charities 35 Village Hall 18 Village Hub 7

Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 40 Home-Start Training Course 30 Housing Advice 37 Mobile Warden Scheme 25 Older Driver Workshops 36 Refuse Collections 20 Village Directory 38-39

Children & Education 1st Orwell Scouts 17 Activities for Families 14 Primary School 16

This month’s cover picture: Field Fire in Meldreth, 27th July 2026 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 him/her.

1

LI

T Y

S E

RV

E

Q

U

IC

A

O

E

R

A

F O

R S

L V E

R

2 5

Y

FLOORING

OT H E R

GARDEN FURNITURE

P RO D U C T S

TO O !

J U S T

A S K

Consultation . Installation Renovation . Personal Service

DECKING

O V E R

2 5

Y E A R S

O F

R E N OVAT I O N S E RV I C E

Q U A L I T Y

S E R V I C E

01279 626389

andrewbanks.co.uk

MELDRETH PLANT HIRE TEL: 01763 262738

DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE. WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK 2

Editorial Welcome to the September issue of Meldreth Matters.

Andrew Young has written an interesting article (see pages 4-5) about community spirit and the opportunities available for volunteering and getting involved in village life. On this theme, several organisations are appealing in this issue for new members or support including the Village Hall, History Group, the Friends of Holy Trinity and the Primary School. Why not follow Andrew’s suggestion and attend some of the events taking place in the village this month? They include the PTA’s Fam Fest, a performance of Alice in Wonderland, a Bowls Club Quiz Night and the Friends of Holy Trinity’s Classic Car Show. See the summary at the top of page 20 for more information.

We are delighted to say that we have continued to receive donations from readers towards MM’s printing costs. Thank you so much to everyone who has made a contribution. Should you wish to donate, you will find our bank details on the back page of every issue. Alternatively, please mention MM to any prospective advertisers. Thank you all for your support.

Kathryn

Auction of Promises to be held at Holy Trinity Church, Meldreth Saturday 10th October, at 7.00pm Please put this in your diary!

This exciting Auction of Promises offers the chance to bid for objects, services and experiences, all available via competitive bids.

These are being provided by folks from our community to help raise funds for the maintenance and repair of Holy Trinity Church, Meldreth.

Drinks and nibbles will be for sale, both before and whilst bidding is in progress.

A 'well known person' in the community will be our auctioneer on the night. Things could get lively!

Additionally, if you are able to provide a ‘Promise’, that can be bid for, please contact me. All help will be gratefully received.

Please do come along and help support our local church.

We look forward to seeing you.

Steve Oakman oakmansteve@hotmail.com

3

Keeping Meldreth Thriving: Why Community Involvement Matters One of the greatest strengths of Meldreth is the number of people, organisations and facilities that help turn our village into a genuine community. These are the places where friendships are formed, neighbours meet, skills are shared and support is given when it is needed. They are also what give the village its character, identity and sense of belonging. It is easy to take these things for granted, but they only exist because local people choose to support them. Meldreth is fortunate to have a remarkable range of clubs, organisations and activities. There are opportunities for people of all ages and interests to become involved. Collectively, they provide friendship, support, recreation, learning and companionship to many residents throughout the year.

Equally important are the facilities and establishments that act as the heart of village life. Holy Trinity Church continues to be far more than a place of worship, serving as an important centre for community activities, support and fellowship. The British Queen remains one of the few places where people can gather informally, meet friends and neighbours, and strengthen the social bonds that make village life special. Alongside the Village Hall, Recreation Ground and other community facilities, these are all vital parts of what makes Meldreth the village we know and love. However, none of these groups, facilities or events exist by accident. Behind every successful club, community organisation and event are volunteers who freely give their time, skills and energy. They organise meetings, run committees, maintain facilities, coach teams, arrange transport, raise funds, prepare refreshments and undertake countless other tasks that often go unnoticed.

As a community, we owe an enormous debt of gratitude to everyone who has contributed over the years. We should thank not only those who are volunteering today, but also the many residents who have served our village in the past.

Generations of people have given their time, effort and support to build the organisations, facilities and traditions that we enjoy today. Their dedication has created a stronger, friendlier and more connected village and we should never underestimate the value of what they have achieved.

At the same time, we must recognise the challenges facing many community organisations. Modern life is busy. Many of us are balancing work, family commitments, caring responsibilities and increasingly demanding schedules. Quite simply, we are often time-poor. Yet supporting our community does not necessarily mean taking on a major commitment or serving on a committee for years.

Sometimes it can be as simple as helping at the village fête for an hour, assisting with setting up tables at an event, serving refreshments at a coffee morning, helping with transport for a resident who needs it, supporting a fundraising activity, attending a History Group meeting, joining a club, or lending a hand during a community clean-up. Others may be able to commit more regularly by joining a committee, becoming a club member, helping at Holy Trinity Church, volunteering with the Food Bank, supporting Community Transport or assisting with youth 4

organisations, for example the Brownies and Guides. The important thing is that every contribution matters. Whether it is a one-off commitment or regular involvement throughout the year, each person who steps forward helps to share the load and strengthen the community.

For anyone interested in becoming more involved, there is a comprehensive list of village clubs, organisations, facilities and useful contacts towards the back of Meldreth Matters or check the Meldreth Today section of the History Group’s website. If you see something that interests you, please get in touch. The people involved will be delighted to hear from you and will be happy to explain what their organisation does, where it meets, how it operates and how you can get involved.

There is no obligation, and you may just discover a new interest, make new friends or find an opportunity to contribute to village life in a way that suits your time and circumstances.

Fresh faces bring fresh ideas, new skills and renewed energy. Whether you have lived in Meldreth all your life or arrived only recently, there is almost certainly a group, club or organisation that would welcome your involvement. This is not simply about keeping clubs running. It is about preserving the character of the village itself. If local clubs cannot attract new members, if organisations struggle to recruit volunteers, if events are not supported and if facilities fall into disuse, they will inevitably decline. Some may disappear altogether. Once lost, they are often very difficult to replace.

The result would be a village that becomes increasingly a dormitory settlement; somewhere people live but do not truly connect. Opportunities to meet neighbours would diminish, community spirit would weaken and the things that give Meldreth its unique identity would gradually fade away. The village would lose much of the heart and soul that makes it such a wonderful place to live.

Fortunately, the answer is within all our reach. Join a club. Attend an event.

Volunteer occasionally. Support Holy Trinity Church. Visit the British Queen. Use local facilities. Help at a fundraiser. Encourage others to become involved. Even the smallest contribution can make a real difference when many people do a little.

The future vitality of Meldreth depends not on a handful of dedicated individuals, but on all of us. Our clubs, organisations, events, church, pub and community facilities are among the village's greatest assets. They deserve our support, not only for what they provide today, but for the generations that will follow.

A thriving village is not something we inherit by chance. It is something we create together. If we want Meldreth to remain a vibrant, welcoming and connected community rather than simply a place where people sleep before heading elsewhere, now is the time for all of us to play our part. Whether you can give an hour, a day, a month or a year, your contribution matters. Together, we can ensure that Meldreth continues to be a village with a strong community, a rich social life and, most importantly, a soul.

Andrew Young 5

Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group Our July meeting was held in Meldreth and was attended by eighteen members.

Our speaker was Jeff Lambert, who works for the charity Medical Detection Dogs.

Jeff brought two very lively red cocker spaniels with him. One of the dogs was fully trained but the younger one, which they had hoped to train, was found to be unsuitable.

Volunteers foster the dogs which then go to people who have recurring health problems. The dogs live with them full time and can detect smells that would be impossible for a human being to smell, and therefore the dogs can give a warning of possible illness. The dogs are also able to warn of a collapse and then the appropriate medicine can be taken. In addition, many are trained to sniff out different cancers. A donation was made to Jeff’s charity.

For our August meeting, we had a meal at Thai Rack in Royston.

Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday 22nd September in All Saints Community Hall, Melbourn under the heading “Art Evening”.

If you would like to join us, please contact one of the committee members: Sue Toule on (01763) 260955, Angela Leach on (01763) 262793, Lyn Damant on 07568 643598, Janet Backer on (01763) 221492 or Diane Blundell on (01763) 221415.

Diane Blundell

MELDRETH LANDSCAPES

Design & Layout Plans Hard Landscaping & Lighting Planting & Water Features

Richard Burns

Pergolas, Decking, etc

ELECTRICIAN For installation, repair or advice please call

Tel: 01763 261463

Tel: Mob:

01763 263 121 07958 028 729

sockets@richardburnselectrician.co.uk

www.meldrethlandscapes.co.uk

Part P approved Certified installer

Kneesworth Rd., Meldreth, Royston, Herts

6

Compliant to BS7671 Based in Meldreth

Meldreth Village Hub Community room, Elin Way Every Tuesday and Thursday 12 noon– 3.00pm Freshly cooked lunches every Tuesday (FREE and no need to book) Coffee, tea, some sweet treats every Thursday Your friendly and welcoming Hub continues to flourish.

During the hot summer days, we have served buffets, quiche, sausages, salad, watermelon, strawberries and ice cream. Many people have commented on the ‘lovely food’ which is always well received.

Sometimes we play table football, table tennis or carpet kurling (great fun!!) The jigsaws and board games are always popular too.

However, some of our visitors choose to sit quietly and enjoy the company of others (there’s always lots to talk about).

Our brilliant Digital Champion is a whizz with technology. If you’re having problems with a laptop or mobile phone he can help (all chats are in complete confidence). We can also help if you have queries about bills, attendance allowance, blue badges or anything that is worrying you. Please feel free to contact me and we can put you in touch with someone who can help.

Once again, a BIG THANK YOU to our volunteers, you’re all amazing!

If you would like to find out about volunteering, please get in touch.

We look forward to meeting you.

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

iPLASTER

PC Repairs Advice & Installation of Home Networks

SKIMMING / PATCHING CEILING REPAIR WATER DAMAGE REPAIR ARTEX COVERED

Help with Selecting a computer Fault Finding

01763 260 526 07837 645173

Brian Girling 01223 208529 (Wimpole) E-mail bg@moncraft.co.uk

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

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

7

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

8

Friends of Holy Trinity Church Saturday 5th September, 7.00pm Alice in Wonderland The popular “This is My Theatre” company will be returning to Holy Trinity this month with Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at 7.00pm on Saturday 5th September. Join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole and encounters a whirlwind of curious characters - the grinning Cheshire Cat, the frantic White Rabbit, the eccentric Mad Hatter, and the fearsome Queen of Hearts. This timeless tale of imagination, riddles and wonder comes to life on stage in a dazzling production full of humour, music, and a touch of madness.

Perfect for dreamers of all ages, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland invites you to lose yourself in the magic of one of literature’s most beloved journeys! Tickets are now on sale at: www.thisismytheatre.com/alice-inwonderland.

You might also like to see another This is My Theatre production at All Saints Melbourn of A Christmas Carol, provisionally planned for Wednesday 16th December.

If confirmed, tickets will be available from www.thisismytheatre.com.

Sunday 13th September, 1.30-4.30pm Classic Car Show The 21st Anniversary Classic Car Show will be held on Sunday 13th September, from 1.30 – 4.30pm in Meldreth Churchyard. We hope to see many of our supporters there for this anniversary event. If any supporters can provide cakes and similar refreshments, they would be gratefully received. Please contact Libby or me on (01763) 260319 or the number below. Thanks in advance.

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 07726 936635 9

Neighbourhood Watch Schemes www.facebook.com/meldrethnhw www.facebook.com/MelbournNW Melbourn and Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch groups are working together to strengthen safety and awareness across both villages and the surrounding areas. By collaborating, we can share information more effectively, support one another, and ensure that concerns in our local area reach the right authorities quickly.

Both groups are volunteer-led community initiatives dedicated to keeping our villages safe, informed and connected. Our role is to help residents stay aware of local crime trends, encourage neighbourly support and to work closely with the police to ensure concerns in our area are heard. However, to do this, we need your help.

We’ve recently seen an increase in the number of anti-social behaviour incidents across Melbourn and Meldreth. Sadly, many of these incidents have gone unreported to the authorities. If you are the victim of a crime or anti-social behaviour, please report it to the police. It’s vital to remember that incidents posted on Facebook or other social media platforms cannot be acted upon by the police.

If you witness a crime, experience anti-social behaviour, or notice something unusual, please report it. You can contact the police via 999 in emergencies, 101 for non-urgent matters, or use the online reporting tools available through Cambridgeshire Constabulary, www.cambs.police.uk. When residents report crime or suspicious activity to the police, it gives the authorities the accurate picture they need to respond effectively. Even minor incidents matter; they help build patterns that police can act on.

Together, looking out for one another, sharing information and reporting anything that doesn’t feel right, we can keep our villages welcoming and secure places to live.

On the following page we have included a reminder of ways in which you can report different incidents. Please keep the page handy for future reference.

Your local Neighbourhood Watch coordinators are: For Meldreth Laura: meldrethnhw@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/meldrethnhw For Melbourn Debbie melbournnhw@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/MelbournNW

10

Meldreth and Melbourn Neighbourhood Watch Schemes Useful Telephone Numbers In an emergency (crime in progress or danger to life) call 999.

For non-urgent matters, call the Police on 101 or text the British Transport Police on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40.

To report a crime anonymously  CrimeStoppers 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org/giveinformation/forms/give-information-anonymously To report a suspected drink/drug driver:  0800 032 0845 (anonymous hotline) To report a public place where you feel unsafe StreetSafe https://www.police.uk/pu/notices/streetsafe/street-safe (anonymous) (e.g. dark alleys, abandoned buildings, vandalism etc – but do not use to report crime) To report fraud/cybercrime  Report Fraud 0300 123 2040 or https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/reporting-a-fraud  StopScamsUK – call 159 to be connected directly to your bank (e.g. if you have been called by someone you do not believe to be from your bank)  National Cyber Security Centre – to report a website you think is a scam https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-this-website/report-scam-website  Stop Loan Sharks - 0300 555 2222 or https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk To report counterfeit goods, rogue traders etc:  Trading Standards – this is now accessed through Citizens’ Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 (Mon-Fri, 9-5) To report an online scam advert:  Advertising Standards Authority – 020 7492 2222 or https://www.asa.org.uk/make-a-complaint/report-an-online-scam-ad.html To report a suspicious email  Forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk To report a suspicious text:  Forward it to 7726. This number can also be used to report scam calls to your mobile – text the word SPAM followed by the caller’s number to 7726.

To report a WhatsApp scam:  Tap on the chat, then tap on the contact name, then scroll down until you see ‘Report’.

Meldreth & Melbourn Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators 11

PTA Fam Fest We would like to invite you to join Meldreth Primary and Preschool PTA at the Primary School on Saturday 5th September between 11.30am and 3.00pm. We will be holding a ‘Fam Fest’; a festival of entertainment, games and food for everyone!

The headline act will be local singer, Stacey Lee Cuddy and there will be lots of things to enjoy including a kids’ disco, rock band, stalls, ice cream, BBQ, bar and even a ‘dino excavation’.

Please come along and support our school!

For more information, please contact the PTA by emailing meldrethpta@gmail.com.

Frankie Harris

12

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

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

13

Things for Children and Families To Do in September Saturday 5th September, 11.30am - 3.00pm Meldreth Primary School PTA Family Festival Meldreth Primary School, High Street, Meldreth Live music, inflatables, Beat the Goalie, BBQ, bar, face painting, assault course, Kids’ disco. See page 12.

Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September, 9.30am - 5.30pm Ancient Oak Fayre, Quy Country Park, Stow Cum Quy CB25 9AF Horsemen of the Knight displays, live music, Watermill Wolves, falconry, mermaids, bubble show, bodger, Stone Age workshops, storytelling, fairy glade and more. Adults £20, children £10, under 5s free. www.ancientoak.uk.

Sundays 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th September, 9.00am Wimpole Parkrun, Wimpole Hall Estate, Arrington SG8 0BW Free weekly 2km run for ages 4 to 14. Register before your first run on www.parkrun.org.uk.

Sunday 13th September, 1.00pm - 4.00pm Sandon Summer Fete, Village Hall, Sandon SG9 0QU This year’s theme is ‘A Village full of Stories’. Create book sculptures, find Wally, teddy tombola, vinted fashion, dog show, stories, teas. Free entry.

Thursday 24th September, 22nd October, 19th November, 5.00 - 6.30pm Film and Dance Workshops, Royston Museum, Lower King St SG8 5AL Film making, photography and dance for ages 11 to 18. Free.

Book on 07971 171061.

Friday 25th September, 9.30am - 11.30am Hot Wheels at Cambridge Science Centre, Milton Road CB4 0FN For ages 2 - 5 with an adult. Explore wheels and vehicles. Make your own car, create wheel track patterns. Ages 2-3 £5, 4 -17 £10, adults £13.75. Book on www.tickets.cambridgesciencecentre.org.

Saturday 26th September, 7.15pm - 8.45pm Family Night Walk, Trumpington Meadows, Grantchester Rd CB6 2FX A stroll of about one and a half miles with bat detectors. Hooting owls and barking deer may be heard. Best for children aged 7 to 11. Book on www.eventbrite.co.uk. £5.61 - £9.82.

Sunday 27th September, 11.30am Family Folk Show, The Old Bull, Royston SG8 9AW Witty songs, superb harmonies by Megson. Part of Royston Arts Festival. £8 or £25 for 4 tickets. www.megsonmusic.co.uk.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

14

Specialist Physiotherapists Keeping You Active 01223 874433 pennfarmphysio.com

Haslingfield Scan for an appointment

15

Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk As we begin the new school year, there is plenty happening at our Primary and Preschool and we are delighted to welcome everyone back for the autumn term. A particularly warm welcome goes to our new school and preschool pupils, who have joined us this September. We hope they and their families quickly settle into school life and become part of our friendly village school community. We also welcome back all our returning pupils and wish them a happy and successful year ahead.

There have been some staff changes over the summer, and we are pleased to have some new members of staff joining the school team. We are also delighted to welcome Claudia McGinty as our new Deputy Headteacher, who takes up her new role this term. We look forward to working with her and to the contribution she will make to school life.

How Can You Help Our School?

There are lots of ways that members of our village community can support the school, however big or small. We are always grateful for volunteers who can spare a little time to help with school activities, events or projects. We also welcome donations of good-quality, used toys and children's books, which can be put to great use by our pupils. If you have items that your children have outgrown, please consider donating them to the school rather than letting them gather dust! Another easy way to support us is through our clothing bank in the Village Hall car park.

Please use the clothing bank for unwanted clothes and textiles; every donation helps to raise funds for the school while also giving unwanted items a new lease of life.

Thank you to everyone in the village who supports our school in so many different ways. Your generosity, time and encouragement make a real difference to our children and to our school community.

We wish all our pupils, families and staff a very happy start to the new academic year and look forward to another busy and rewarding year of ‘Learning Together for Life’ at our village school.

Aspire – Enjoy – Achieve Sasha Howard - Headteacher

Duxford Saturday Workshop www.duxfordsaturdayworkshop.org.uk If you would like to learn to play an instrument, play alongside others, or sing in a choir, you’re in luck: “Duxford Saturday Workshop” is here for you! Workshop holds group tuition sessions, where adults and children from ‘Year Five’ onwards, can learn to play an instrument. There is also a ‘junior music group’ for children from Year 1 upwards, classes for adult beginners and groups both for ‘improvers’ 16

and for competent players. Our members include adults who have always wanted to learn an instrument but haven’t had the opportunity, alongside those – so many of us - who “haven’t played for donkeys’ years …” but would like to get back to playing music again.

Workshop also has ensembles ranging from recorders, strings, jazz and wind bands to folk fiddlers, ukulele players, guitarists, a community choir and a full orchestra.

There are lots of opportunities for you to join in and have fun by learning and performing together in an enjoyable and supportive environment.

Registration for the 2026-27 Workshop year is on Saturday 5th September at Duxford School, St. John’s Street, Duxford from 10.00am to 11.30am and term begins two weeks later, on Saturday 19th September.

If you’re keen to learn but don’t have an instrument of your own, we have instruments for rental on very reasonable terms so we’ll help you out if we can.

For more information, please see the Workshop website, www.duxfordsaturdayworkshop.org.uk.

Peter Howarth, Duxford Workshop Management Team

1st Orwell Scouts: Breaking New Ground www.1storwellscouts.org.uk It was an incredibly exciting summer for us as after months (no, years!) of planning and some hard fundraising we finally broke ground on the foundations for our brand-new Scout Hut. Thanks to some extremely generous local donations, this happened much sooner than we originally anticipated. It is much needed and we are delighted to have an official base to store our equipment, rather than keeping tents and kit in various sheds around the village! As one of the largest troops in the local area, and with an ever-increasing waiting list for places across all our sections, the amount of kit we require is significant.

Our annual Group Camp takes place in early September. With over 100 young people in 1st Orwell Scouts, organising a weekend away full of activities is no mean feat and our leaders do a fantastic job. Aside from giving up their time (and sleep) to host camping trips, they also plan an action-packed schedule of meetings throughout the rest of the year. This summer’s highlights included, flying model airplanes, sleepovers, water fights, kayaking, cooking, hikes and fishing.

We’re always on the lookout for more leaders and volunteers. The more support we have, the more young people we can get involved in Scouting, so if you have some time to spare and would like to be part of something really rewarding, why not get in touch via our website, www.1storwellscouts.org.uk.

Catriona Green

17

Village Hall Update The Village Hall continues to be busy and well used, hosting a wide variety of clubs, community groups, meetings and private events. It is encouraging to see so many residents making use of this important community facility, which remains at the heart of village life.

I am pleased to report that the hall remains in good order. Thanks to regular maintenance and the efforts of our trustees and volunteers, it continues to provide a welcoming, safe and affordable venue for local organisations and residents.

To help ensure the long-term future of the hall, we are looking for new Trustees to join the management team. You do not need any specialist knowledge, just an interest in supporting the village and helping maintain one of its most valuable assets. Becoming a Trustee is a rewarding way to contribute to the community and bring fresh ideas to the running of the hall.

Our Village Hall 100 Club continues to go from strength to strength. The scheme provides a simple way to support the hall while also giving members the chance to win cash prizes. Half of each membership fee goes towards supporting the Village Hall, while the other half forms the monthly prize fund. Membership is open to anyone wishing to support the hall, whether or not they live in Meldreth.

Joining is easy. A share costs £60 per year and members are automatically entered into the monthly draws. Application forms are available via the QR code shown on the right and on 100 Club advertisements, through the Village Hall website at www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk, by calling 07572 553647 or by emailing chair@meldrethvillagehall.co.uk.

Congratulations to our July winners: Mrs F (Meldreth) - £50 First Prize; Mrs D (Meldreth) - £20 Second Prize.

Thank you to everyone who supports the Village Hall, whether by hiring the hall, attending events, volunteering, serving as a Trustee or participating in the 100 Club.

Your support helps ensure that this valuable community facility continues to serve the village for many years to come.

If you are interested in becoming a Trustee or joining the 100 Club, we would be delighted to hear from you. Together, we can keep the Village Hall thriving at the heart of our community.

Andrew Young Meldreth Village Hall Chair

18

ROYAL OAK MATTERS Summer is well and truly here, and things are buzzing at The Royal Oak! The Old Tuck Shop Is Open for Business: Good news for pizza lovers — The Old Tuck Shop is slinging fresh, delicious pizzas regularly every week. Whether you'd prefer to grab and go or settle in with us at the pub, the choice is yours.

Thursday 5 PM – 8 PM Friday & Saturday 4 PM – 8 PM Terracotta Planter Painting Workshop -Monday 14th Sept. | 7–9 PM | £20 per person Looking for a fun and creative evening out? Join us for our Terracotta Planter Painting Workshop — a perfect way to unwind, get creative, and take home something you've made yourself. Spots are limited, so be sure to book yours soon!

Mussel Night -Thursday 17th September | Evening Mark your calendars — Mussel Night is coming! A firm favourite with our regulars, this is one evening you won't want to miss. More details to follow, so keep an eye on our socials.

Charity Quiz Night -Sunday 27th Sept| 6 – 8 PM | £2 entry per person Round up your team and test your knowledge at our Charity Quiz Night, hosted by the brilliant Ben! Entry is just £2 per person, with all proceeds going to the Forget-Me-Not charity. A wonderful cause, a great evening — see you there.

Amelie & The Royal Oak Team

Our New Opening Hours: The Pub Mon – Thurs Lunch 12.00 - 22.00 Fri / Sat 12:00 - 23:00 Sun 11:45 - 18:00 The Restaurant Mon- Fri lunch 12:00 - 14:30 Mon - Thurs evening 17:00 - 20:00 Fri Evening 17:00 - 20:30 Sat 12:00 - 20:30 Sun 11.45 - 16:00

royaloak@cambscuisine.com ROakBarrington

01223 870791

Book your

FREE ear health check today

Reconnect to your life 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

19

01223 661399 info@angliearhearing.co.uk

Meldreth Village Diary – September 2026 Special Events This Month Fam Fest

Saturday 5th

11.30am-3.00pm

Alice in Wonderland Car Show

Saturday 5th

7.00pm

Primary School Holy Trinity

Sunday 13th

1.30-4.30pm

Holy Trinity

Friday 18th

7.00pm

Bowls Club

Sunday 27th

11.00am-4.00pm

Village Hall

Bowls Club Quiz Rat Show

Page 12 Page 9

Page 9 & back page Page 12

The first day of the school term is Wednesday 2nd September

Regular Classes and Events Children’s Activities Acro* Brownies* Guides* Rainbows* Stay & Play* Street Dance*

Thursdays Wednesdays Mondays Mondays Wednesdays Mondays

4.00-5.00pm 6.00-7.30pm 6.30-8.00pm 5.00-6.15pm 9.30-11.00am 4.00-6.30pm

Village Hall Village Hall Village Hall

2nd Sunday 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays

8.00am 9.45am

Holy Trinity Holy Trinity

Friday 11th

12.15-1.45pm

Village Hall

Tuesdays Saturday 19th 4th Tuesday Tues & Thurs

9.00am-12 noon 2.00-4.00pm 10.45-11.30am 12 noon-3.00pm

Elin Way Village Hall Bell Close Elin Way

Church Services Morning prayer Sung Eucharist

Community Support Dementia SingAlong Food Bank Memory Café Mobile Library Village Hub

Page 7

Refuse Collections Black bins: 8th & 22nd September. Blue and green bins: 1st, 15th & 29th September.

Food bins: Every Tuesday Get reminders on your mobile: download the Bin Collections app

20

Meldreth Village Diary – September 2026 Adult Activities/Classes Bell Ringing

History Group Lift-Off Choir* Melb. & Meldreth Women’s Group Royston & District Motorcycle Club Slimming World Wise Local Crafters

Wednesdays (except 1st week of month) Monday 7th

7.45pm-9.00pm

Holy Trinity

10.00-12 noon

Elin Way

Wednesdays

1.30pm-2.45pm

Village Hall

Pages 22-23 Page 6

First and third Wednesdays

8.00pm

Fridays Thursdays

9.30am 10.30am-3.30pm

Eternit Sports & Social Club Village Hall Eternit Sports & Social Club

Adult Exercise/Sport 50+ Aerobics Fitness Pilates Functional Fitness Jazzercise Bowls Club Table Tennis Tennis

Toneography Trigger Point Pilates Pilates Conditioning

Tuesdays Tuesdays Mondays Wednesdays Tuesdays Saturdays Thursdays Various days

Thursdays Mondays Wednesdays Thursdays Wednesdays

1.30-2.30pm 7.00-8.00pm 10.00-11.00am 6.15-7.15pm 10.00am onwards 2.00pm onwards 7.00-9.00pm See https:// clubspark.lta.org.uk/ meldrethtennisclub 12.30-1.15pm 11.00am-12 noon 7.30-8.15pm 6.00-6.45pm 11.45am-12.30pm

Village Hall Village Hall Village Hall Village Hall Bowls Club

Village Hall Village Hall Village Hall Village Hall Village Hall

First Thursday

7.30pm

Elin Way

Village Hall Tennis Courts

Other Parish Council *term time only

For information on Village Hall classes & events, visit www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk

21

Pages 29, 30

Meldreth Local History Group www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Next year, Meldreth Local History Group will be 20 years old!

Formed in 2007, by and for the local community, the Group was established with the following aims:  To research and record the history of the village and its environs  To create and preserve an archive of local history which can be passed on to subsequent generations  To publish material, both in print and digital forms, for the benefit of the local community and others interested in the history of the village Over the past nineteen years, we have organised numerous events, including exhibitions, family history events, talks, coffee mornings, guided walks, an archaeological test pitting project and open days at Topcliffe Mill. We have also taken part in many village events including Open Gardens Days, Church fetes, the Christmas Tree Festival, exhibitions and the centenary celebrations at Meldreth Primary School, for which we provided all the displays on the history of the school.

We have produced walk booklets, Christmas cards and other merchandise.

Our members have undertaken a lot of research into Meldreth’s history and have visited archives, transcribed records, scanned books, photograph albums and images and conducted and recorded over 30 interviews with residents. We have made as much information as possible freely available; firstly on the Cambridgeshire Community Archives Network, www.meldreth.ccan.co.uk, where we have uploaded over 1,000 images and secondly on our own website, www.meldrethhistory.org.uk. The latter now has over 6,000 images across more than 700 pages.

Some of the people who were involved at the beginning of our journey are still helping today. However, sadly it is not just the History Group that is almost 20 years older: we are too! An attempt to attract new members by holding some evening meetings has not worked and it is looking increasingly likely that we may have to wind up the Group next year. Even if this happens, we sincerely hope to find a way of keeping our website live and even adding to it from time to time.

We are very proud of what we’ve achieved over the past couple of decades, particularly the breadth of information included on our website, www.meldrethhistory.org.uk. If you have not visited it before, or haven’t looked at it for a while, why not take a look? Here are a few ways to use the site: 

Take our First Time Visitor’s Tour: www.meldrethhistory.org.uk/category/about/our-website/firsttime



Search for a topic that interests you; there is a search box in the top righthand corner of every page; 22



Browse one of the six categories listed on our home page



View the latest pages to be added to the site by clicking on the red tab towards the bottom of our home page



Click on the “Latest News” tab and read our newsletter



Click the red “Meldreth Today” link at the top of the home page to access information on the village’s current facilities, footpaths, groups, etc.

We hope you enjoy looking at our website and find something to interest you.

For the Group to continue, we need new members of all ages. No experience is necessary - just enthusiasm, confident computer skills and a willingness to help! If you are interested in being involved or would like to find out more, please contact us on the email address below or come along to our next meetings: Monday 7th September from 10.00am to 12 noon Tuesday 20th October from 7.00-9.00pm Monday 2nd November from 10.00am to 12 noon.

All meetings will take place in the Community Room in Elin Way, Meldreth.

If you would like any further information on the Group, please visit our website or email us on info@meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Kathryn Betts & Joan Gane Meldreth Local History Group Is Your Wooden Floor In Need Of Sanding ?

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

Please quote "Meldreth Mag"

Swift solutions for all your minor jobs or repairs

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.

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

23

A Meldreth Garden in September The light arriving in September; softer, lower, more forgiving than August's glare, has a photogenic quality. This is the month when the season changes gear, not yet autumn, no longer summer, but something between that rewards the willing gardener.

Tidying and Tending The late-summer floppiness of the border can finally be addressed. Deadhead roses, dahlias, alstroemeria, and cosmos etc., to keep them flowering into October.

To furnish my young brother’s garden, I will divide perennials, geraniums, hostas, daylilies, etc. Clumps respond well to being split and replanted or potted up while the soil still holds warmth. Always give divisions a thorough watering.

Planting for Next Year September is prime time for spring bulbs. I will be planting daffodils, crocuses and alliums; but holding back on planting tulips until November to reduce the risk of tulip fire. Planting or transplanting trees and shrubs can be done now, correcting my earlier location errors. The soil is warm enough to encourage root growth before winter dormancy, giving plants a head start.

The Vegetable Patch Summer crops are winding down, but there's plenty to do. I will plant garlic and broad beans to overwinter and sow quick growing salad leaves like rocket and mizuna, time to squeeze in a sowing before the light fades too far. Pull up spent tomato and courgette plants once they've stopped producing. Consider a green manure, I use fiddleneck Phacelia Tanacetifolia others are field beans, vetch or mustard, etc., covering bare beds to protect and feed the soil over winter is a good practice.

Lawns and General Maintenance As long as the grass has recovered from the summer droughts, I will scarify to remove thatch, aerate compacted patches, and overseed bare spots. All this done while the ground is still warm and rainfall more reliable.

Garden Visits It is always good to make visits to other gardens for fresh inspiration. Two recent garden visits could not be more contrasting. Firstly, after many years, I re-visited Winderwath in Cumbria near Temple Sowerby. This is a plantsman's garden with views to the lakes. The current house and gardens were laid out at the beginning of the 20th century, but the estate dates to before the 15th century. No public concessions here. Taking a picnic and drink, sitting on a bench and soaking it all in. There were many wonderful plant combinations including orange ginger lilies Hedychiums possibly 'Assam Orange’ and dwarf, multiheaded, sunflowers possibly Helianthus debilis 'Soluna Bronze'. Winderwath has a superb collection of late flowering salvias, stalwarts of the late summer garden and is famed for its giant

24

redwood Sequoiadendron giganteum, dawn redwood Metasequoia glyptostroboides and cut leaf beech Fagus sylvatica var. heterophylla f. laciniata.

I also visited the RHS Sandringham Flower Show and joined the thousands of other trekkers circling the 34 acre site on one of the hottest days of the year. In retrospect the organisers must regret the vast spaces between the show’s features. I was surprised at the ratio of show gardens to merchandising stalls, selling a huge range of goods that my late wife would have adored.

Peter Beales was the Master grower of the show; their fabulous rose display, like the adjoining display of fuchsias in the floral marquee had difficulty contending with the intense heat. My best show garden was the Thomas Gainsborough garden, it was immaculate; the lowly silver medal must have been for not meeting their brief.

Good gardening.

Iain McPhee mcpheia1@gmail.com

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

25

Things to do in September Here are some things happening in September in the local area. To have your event listed, please email: meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Saturday 5th September, 10.00am to 5.00pm (TBC) Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival Fen Ditton Meadows, Fen Ditton, Cambridgeshire CB5 8SX Up to 10 people paddle each 30-foot boat over the 200-metre course with a drummer at the front beating time. Over 40 corporate and charity teams expected to take part. In aid of Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust, supporting the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital. Spectators free.

Saturday 5th September, 11.00am to 4.00pm The 25th Buntingford Classic Buntingford Town Centre, Hertfordshire Classic cars, trucks, tractors and bikes of all ages will line the streets creating a wonderful celebration of motoring history on the town’s historic High Street. Plus BBQs, live musicians. For more details: www.buntingfordclassic.co.uk.

Sunday 6th September, 2.30pm to 5.00pm (last entry 4.30pm) Hinxton Watermill Open Day, Mill Lane, Hinxton CB10 1RD A 17th century working watermill nestled on a lovely stretch of the River Cam. Its rich history will be brought to life by volunteer guides. Cambridge Past, Present and Future members free, others £3, accompanied children £1.

Tuesday 8th September, 10.00am to 12.00pm Autumn Wildflowers Wandlebury Country Park, Gog Magog, Cambridge CB22 3AE Guided walk to learn about late summer wildflowers and how to identify them.

Meet at large noticeboard in car park. Free event, no need to book. Donations to their conservation work welcome.

Friday 11th to Sunday 13th September, 10.00am to 5.00pm BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair Audley End House and Gardens, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF Meet the popular TV programme’s presenters, join ‘hands-on’ workshops, explore the gardens, enjoy live entertainment and visit the BBC Good Food Market. Ticket information including concessions for English Heritage members, carers and others from www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com.

Friday 11th to Sunday 20th September Open Cambridge Various times/venues across Cambridge and surrounding area Open Cambridge is a celebration of our community, its heritage and history. Part of national Heritage Open Days, it offers special access to a range of places which are normally closed to the public or charge admission. For further details see www.opencambridge.cam.ac.uk.

26

Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September, 9.30am to 4.30pm ‘Harv Fest’ Weekend Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW Tours, music and demonstrations celebrating the harvest and produce cultivated at Wimpole. For further details, check their website, www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

No booking necessary. Free event but normal NT admission charges apply. (Free for NT members.)

Thursday 17th September, 8.00pm to 10.00pm Royston Writers Circle - Open Meeting Committee Room, Town Hall, Melbourn Street, Royston SG8 7DA Are you someone who loves the written word but can never find time to write - or someone looking for inspiration and feedback? Then come along, make new friends and meet some fellow writers. All ages (18 plus) and abilities welcome.

Please register your interest at www.roystonwriters.org.

Saturday 19th September, 10.00am to 4.00pm Printing Press Demo Day (part of Royston Arts Festival) Royston Museum, 5 Lower King Street, Royston SG8 5AL Step back in time and experience the magic of printmaking! See an historic printing press in action - the one used to print the Royston Crow - and have a go at creating your own print to take home. Drop in - free event.

Wednesday 23rd September, 7.00pm to 8.15pm Anthony Blunt and the Cambridge Spies Public Library, 69 Rock Road, Cambridge CB1 7UG Join author John Piers Blofeld to learn the extraordinary, untold story of the infamous Cambridge spies. Talk plus refreshments. Doors open at 7.00pm; the talk will begin at 7.15pm. Copies of John Piers Blofeld’s book, Master of Lies, will be available for purchase. Tickets £3. Book in the library or at: libraries.referralcentre@cambridgeshire.gov.uk.

Saturday 26th September, 7.00pm to 10.00pm “Perfect Ten” - a Celebration Performance by Jude Simpson The Old Schoolhouse, 4 Market Hill, Royston SG8 9JL A truly special evening to celebrate and say a fond farewell to Jude Simpson, Home-Start’s Poet in Residence for the past decade. Tickets £20 to include light bites from admin@hsrsc.org.uk or call (01763) 262262. Licensed bar. Proceeds in aid of Home-Start Royston, Buntingford and South Cambridgeshire.

Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th September, 10.00am to 2.30pm Autumn Plant Sale Downing College, Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1DQ A selection of perennials, herbs, trees and house plants will be on sale from the Gardens Team stalls behind the Porters’ Lodge. All plants have been grown on site and will be priced at £2 and £4. Cashless payments only.

Compiled by John Crawforth 27

Melbourn Hub www.melbournhub.co.uk As we head into September, we’re delighted to introduce “Autumn Nights at the Hub”; a series of musical events to make autumn that bit brighter as the nights start drawing in! We start with Tom Huttlestone on Saturday 5th September. Children’s Storytime will be starting again on Friday 4th September following a well-deserved summer break for Mandy, and all our usual events and services will be on. See below for a run-through of what’s happening!

Our artist of the month will be Ruth Westwood.

September Services Cambridge Building Society – now downstairs.

Mondays (12 noon-3.00pm), Tuesdays and Thursdays (9.00am-12 noon) Lunch Club - every Tuesday A weekly social gathering for older people to meet and enjoy the company of others over a two-course subsidised meal. Lunch Club is currently full, but please contact Melbourn Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@melbournhub.co.uk if you would like to be added to our waiting list!

Citizens Advice - every Wednesday between 9.30 and 11.30am.

Drop-in session - no need to book. Citizens Advice also offer pre-booked appointments in the afternoon. Melbourn Hub is unable to make these bookings for you – please contact Citizens Advice on (01462) 688008.

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

Podiatrist - every Wednesday and Friday Lewis Slater provides podiatry services out of the Hub on Wednesdays and Fridays. Please contact Lewis to find out more and to book – (01763) 263260 Children’s Storytime for under 5s - every Friday 10.00-10.30am Come along for stories and singing! No need to book!

Natural Reflections Therapy - weekly sessions supporting people with a wide range of emotional and mental health difficulties, including grief, trauma, emotional overwhelm and neurodivergence. Contact caroline@naturalreflectionstherapy.co.uk or call 07345 535925 to book.

September Events Saturday 5th September – Autumn Nights at the Hub – Tom Huttlestone! From 7.00pm with bar and raffle. Book in advance: tickets cost £15 per person.

Monday 14th September – Tea & Sign – 10.00am-12 noon - Practise your sign language skills with a cuppa. For more information, contact Sally at bainessally@hotmail.com.

28

Dates for your diary Autumn Nights at the Hub  Saturday 24th October - Ellen Blane  Saturday 5th December – Roxy Searle For more details on all our events and services check out our website on www.melbournhub.co.uk.

Linsey Craike On behalf of Melbourn Hub

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.gov.uk There was no Parish Council meeting in August. The next meeting will be held on Thursday 3rd September at 7.30pm in the Elin Way Community Room.

Meldreth Parish Council

Planning Matters Meldreth Parish Council The minutes of the meeting held on 5th August were not available at the time of going to press. When available, minutes can be found on the Parish Council website, www.meldreth-pc.gov.uk.

Planning Authority Decisions Various Locations in Meldreth, 26/02648/ADV Permission granted for the installation of six Neighbourhood Watch Street Signs on lampposts in Meldreth.

11 Howard Road, 26/02268/PRIOR Prior approval not required for a single-storey rear extension projection 6 metres.

112 High Street, 25/04508/FUL Permission granted for the erection of a self-build dwelling West Overdowns Brooder Shed, Melbourn Bypass, Meldreth 26/02001/FUL Permission granted for change of use of agricultural building to a flexible Class E(g)(iii) or B8 use and alterations to existing vehicular access including changes to fenestration.

Details of applications for tree work have not been included because of space restraints.

For details of all applications and Planning Authority decisions, see https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.

The Meldreth Matters Team 29

Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.gov.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.

Telephone: (01763) 269928 Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant, parishclerk@meldreth-pc.gov.uk Responsible Financial Officer: Mrs Sally Walmesley, rfo@meldreth-pc.gov.uk Parish Councillors Cllr R Goddin (Chairman) Cllr Jenni Bone Cllr Glenn Foulger Cllr Nick Garner Cllr Roger James (Vice Ch.) Cllr Alan Land Cllr James Mossey Cllr Nigel Pellatt Vacancy

cllr.r.goddin@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.j.bone@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.g.foulger@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.n.garner@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.r.james@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.c.a.land@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.j.mossey@meldreth-pc.gov.uk cllr.n.pellatt@meldreth-pc.gov.uk

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

Home-Start Volunteer Training Course www.hsrsc.org.uk Last Few Places Available Could you spare a little time to help a local family? Home-Start Royston, Buntingford & South Cambridgeshire is looking for people with parenting, childcare or caregiving experience to become Home-Visiting Volunteers.

Our volunteers offer friendship, encouragement and practical support to families with young children who may be going through a difficult time. Just a few hours a week can make a lasting difference.

Our next free Home-Visiting Volunteer Training Course starts on Monday 21st September and runs for five consecutive Mondays, from 9.30am to 2.30pm.

A few places are still available. To find out more or book your place, call (01763) 262262 or email admin@hsrsc.org.uk.

Your support could be the turning point for a local family.

Angie Ward Fundraising Manager Home-Start Royston, Buntingford & South Cambridgeshire

30

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

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

THE REGIONS FAVOURITE

GOLD & SILVER

JEWELLERY COIN EXPERTS

VIST OUR

CAMBRIDGE OFFICE

Located in Cambridge. We’re open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

Please get in touch to book an appointment.

• Instant Payment • Free Parking

Proudly Supporting

500+ Reviews 4.8

01223 503073

www.cambridgeshirecoins.com

GIVE ME A CALL ON:07946 216268

WE BUY GOLD

SILVER

JEWELLERY COINS

MEDALS

WATCHES

BANKNOTES

WHY CHOOSE US?

Over 30 Years Expereince BNTA Members

500+ Google Reviews

Paid Before You Leave

12 Signet Court, Swanns Road, Cambridge, CB5 8LA

31

£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 £12.87 - £14.03 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 £14.03* per hour

Contact

kirsty.wilkinson@theauroragroup.co.uk

Visit

theauroragroup.co.uk/careers or Scan QR Code.

A10 TIMBER CO. For Timber & Sheet Material Graded Timber Mouldings & Flooring Decking & Fencing Insulation Cutting & delivery service All enquiries welcome.

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

32

Joint District and County Councillor Report This summer has been shaped by two hot topics: climate change and changes at all levels of government. It has been exceptionally hot and dry, but hopefully by the time you read this, we have had ample rain. It is hugely concerning that several fires have been set locally. Please report all criminal activity to the Police, by calling 101 or using the online forms for non-emergency criminal activity, or to the British Transport Police, for example by texting 61016. Reporting is crucial so that the relevant services are aware, can act on patterns of incidents and involve local council-run services. Please also observe any water conservation measures, such as Cambridge Water’s hosepipe ban.

Second, as part of Andy Burnham Government’s ‘Rewiring the State’, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has been granted ‘Enhanced’ status. This means new powers for the Mayor. From 2028, Mayors will also receive a share of local income tax, and councils will retain more business rates. In London, the Mayor is held to account by a full, elected London Assembly.

Outside London, it is less clear from the proposals that any attention is being given to an increase in the effectiveness of scrutiny to match this accumulation of power.

Going forward, we will therefore be looking for opportunities to engage the Mayor to bring local improvements and hold the Combined Authority to account.

Highways £5M Highways Investment for Winter Readiness Last winter, the rapid and early onset of wet and cold conditions triggered an eruption of potholes, a direct consequence of insufficient national spending on road maintenance over many years. In response to public feedback, Cambridgeshire County Council has now allocated an additional £5 million to help prepare the county’s roads for the coming winter. The investment will fund additional preventative mastic repairs, crack sealing and patching. As reported previously, the renegotiated highways maintenance contract also includes financial penalties for poor repairs. In addition, the Council will run a pothole innovation trial in October to test new equipment and materials to identify the most effective approaches for future highway maintenance. We hope that these measures extend the life of our roads and reduce the likelihood of potholes next winter.

Local Government Local Government Reorganisation On the last day of Parliament before its summer holiday, the (then) Secretary of State announced he would be delaying his decision on the reorganisation of local government in our area until October. This prolongs the period of uncertainty for thousands of council staff. It also puts huge pressure on preparing and running elections next May, not to mention the apportionment of assets and liabilities between the new councils and on setting up new services ready for vesting day on 1st April 2028. Local government leaders have reiterated their commitment to working together to deliver the best possible outcomes for communities, residents 33

and businesses and stressed that Government should make a decision as early as possible.

Updated Greater Cambridge Local Plan Published Ahead of Final Public Consultation An updated version of the Proposed Submission Greater Cambridge Local Plan has been published, marking a major milestone in preparing the first joint Local Plan for Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire.

The Greater Cambridge Local Plan has been developed to shape how Greater Cambridge grows over the next twenty years, identifying where new homes, jobs and supporting infrastructure should be located. It also sets planning policies on themes including climate change, biodiversity, wellbeing, sustainable transport and creating great places to live and work.

The latest version of the Plan reflects continued work on infrastructure constraints such as water supply, forecasts on job creation and housing need, confirming a requirement for over 50,000 new homes between 2024 and 2045. Around 37,000 of these are already planned through existing permissions and the current, adopted Local Plan allocations. Residents can sign up for updates and find out more at https://www.scambs.gov.uk/local-plan/.

Greater Cambridge Development Corporation At the end of July, the Government established the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation to deliver long-term sustainable growth in the area covering Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire. The Corporation will be in existence for 25 years. A first meeting of its Board has been held and negotiations are underway to establish ways of working together with the elected local councils.

Environment Agricultural Water Resilience Grant Scheme Opens Cambridgeshire County Council has launched a new water resilience grant scheme for farmers and growers. They can apply for grants of between £2,000 and £50,000 to improve water efficiency, strengthen resilience to drought and support sustainable food production. Further information, including on application windows and deadlines, is available from Water Resources East’s website. https://wre.org.uk/agricultural-water-resilience-grant/.

Care Helping Residents Stay Independent for Longer with Mobile Wardens Hundreds of South Cambridgeshire residents are already benefiting from a simple service that reduces loneliness, boosts confidence and helps people stay independent at home for longer – and the District Council is urging more people to take advantage. https://www.scambs.gov.uk/news/helping-residents-stay-independentfor-longer-with-mobile-wardens.

34

Shaping the Future of Adult Social Care Have your say on the future of adult social care as part of a national public engagement launched by Baroness Louise Casey. The Big Conversation on Care aims to give people across England a direct opportunity to influence the future development of a National Care Service and help shape how care and support will be provided for years to come. The County Council is the statutory adult social care authority for Cambridgeshire.

For more information, please visit www.caseycommission.co.uk/bigconversation.

Finally ....

Ever Wanted to Ride an Autonomous Bus? Government-funded research to the tune of £3.8 million will consider how selfdriving buses could be used on guided busways in Cambridgeshire in the future. If you want to ride an autonomous bus now, e.g. from Trumpington Park & Ride to the Biomedical Campus, as part of the current Connector trial, timetables and other details can be found at: https://www.greatercambridge.org.uk/smart-technologyinnovation/connector.

As your elected representatives, our role is to hold local councils and services to account. Please get in touch if you have any concerns, questions or suggestions.

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 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

35

Older Driver Workshops Are you over 65 and driving or know someone who is? The Older Driver Workshops, delivered by the Fire Service, are free sessions designed to help drivers keep driving safely for longer. They discuss how driving can become more challenging as we get older and the simple checks we can do at home to keep ourselves fit to drive. The workshops do not include a supervised drive.

Each interactive two-hour session covers the following topics:  Age-related changes when driving  Eyesight and driving  Conducting a vehicle check  License renewal  Signs to be aware of  Alternatives to driving Local forthcoming sessions include: Tuesday 15th September, 1.00-3.00pm at Cambourne Fire Station Thursday 24th September, 1.00-3.00pm at Sawston Fire Station Thursday 15th October, 1.00-3.00pm at Sawston Fire Station Tuesday 20th October, 1.00-3.00pm at Cambourne Fire Station To book onto a workshop session, please email road.safety@cambsfire.gov.uk with your name, age, location and contact number. Once you’ve sent the email to us, we would kindly ask that you wait for a confirmation email confirming your place on the workshop. If the date you’ve selected is not available, you will be offered alternative dates or the option to join our online webinar.

For more information, and to view additional locations, please visit www.cambsfire.gov.uk/community-safety/road-safety/older-driver-workshops.

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service

Meldreth Matters Advertising Offer *** Just ONE 1/4 page space left on this offer! *** Reach 900 houses and businesses in Meldreth every month by advertising in Meldreth Matters. Pay £118 for a quarter page advertisement for one year and 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 meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

advantage

of

this

offer,

please

email

The Meldreth Matters Team 36

“Years of Care in Every Clean.”

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"

Little Hands Nursery School The Moor, Melbourn A Private Nursery School specialising in quality care & preschool education for the under fives

High staff to child ratio, individual child centred planning & learning, Flexible booking system for the 08.00am – 5.30pm nursery day. Optional holiday clubs available, dedicated baby room for children under two We accept nursery funding giving 15 & 30 hours/week of free funded nursery for all 3 and 4 year olds & eligible 2 year olds

For further information contact Sharon Tutty,nursery manager on 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk

SIMON’S TILING SERVICES CERAMIC WALL AND FLOOR TILE SPECIALIST FROM SPLASHBACKS TO SWIMMING POOLS! TTA TILER OF THE YEAR FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL SIMON ON 07813 596278

37

Councils & Govt.

Children

Church

Sport

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Village Directory Litter Picker

Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118

Neighbourhood Watch One Stop

Laura Elvin—(01763) 261084 meldrethnhw@gmail.com (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days

Village Hall Bookings

Book online: www.meldrethvillagehall.co.uk

Village Hall Chairman

Andrew Young—07572 553647

Cycling Group

John Rogger—(01763) 260809

Local History Group

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

Lunch Club

Nikki & Julie—07599 292327

Melwood Cons. Group Photographic Group

(01763) 232855; www.melwood.org.uk www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440

U3A

Nicole Searle—(01763) 269561

Bowls Club

David Rich—(01763) 262116

Croquet Club

Janet Pope—(01763) 248239

Table Tennis Club

John Richards—07938 907609

Tennis Club

(01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

HTM & ASM contact

07934 761108

Bells

Jayne White—jayne.white1@ntlworld.com

Friends of Holy Trinity

Ian Mitchell 07726 936635

Churches Together

07934 761108

1st Meldreth Brownies

Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com

st

1 Meldreth Guides

Email: 1stmeldrethguides@gmail.com

Meldreth Rainbows

1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com

Pre- and Primary School (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Stay & Play Group

Chloe Webb—07493 393529

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 Council Offices

0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/

County Councillor

Adam Bostanci; adam.bostanci.mmbw@gmail.com 07400 236329 https://adambostanci.mycouncillor.org.uk

MP

Pippa Heylings; Pippa.heylings.mp@parliament.uk

38

Transport Health Support Services Emergencies Misc Non Emerg.

Station Ticket Office Rail Partnership Govia/Great Northern Potholes, Highways problems, etc.

Rail Partnership Stagecoach Station Ticket Office Streetlights (faulty)

Hours: Mon - Fri 7.00-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.15pm www.camvalleycrp.org.uk; camvalleycrp@gmail.com www.thameslinkrailway.com http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travel-roads-andparking/roads-and-pathways/roadworks-and-faults In an emergency telephone 0345 045 5212

www.camvalleycrp.org.uk; camvalleycrp@gmail.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge Hours: Mon - Fri 7.00-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.15pm Report on SCDC website. For urgent faults use (01954) 713000 - Mon-Fri, 8am-5.30pm. Out of office hours: (01354) 65432. Give location, fault & SC or CCC no.

www.thetrainline.com The Trainline Addenbrooke’s (01223) 805000 or (01223) 245151 Melbourn Surgery (01763) 260220 NHS 111 (24-hour non-emergency number) Childline 0800 1111 (24 hours) Citizens Advice Bureau 0808 2787808; www.citizensadvice.org.uk Community Support for Davina Biswell 07961 574104 or Dementia Stephanie Trayhurn 07710 198299 Community Transport (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk Home-Start (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk Melbourn Time Bank (01763) 263303; https://tol2.timebanking.org/melbourn Meldreth Food Bank Jo—07572 443522 Meldreth Village Hub Helen Meridew—07787 734973 Mind (mental health) 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk Samaritans 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org Anglian Water 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk Cambridge Water (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk Electricity 0800 783 8838 Gas 0800 111 999 General Emergency 999 or 112 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org Police 101; www.cambs.police.uk Report Fraud 0300 123 2040 reportfraud.police.uk S Cambs Fire & Rescue (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk Melbourn Hub (01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.co.uk Royston Taxis (01763) 250811 For details of village groups & facilities see the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

39

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

***** See page 36 for details of our advertising offer ***** 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 ....................................32 Andrew Banks Wood Specialist ........2 AngliEAR Hearing ..........................19 Art of Clean ....................................37 Art of Clean Wood ..........................23 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) .........32 Bury Lane Farm Shop ................Cover Cambridgeshire Coins ....................31 The Country Store ............................6 Davey’s Butchers ........................Cover Eileen’s Fitness Classes ....................32 Eve Construction ............................13 Flo’s Babysitting Service ...................8 iPlaster ...............................................7 Little Hands Nursery School ............37 Melbourn Flooring ............................8

*****

Melbourn Village College ...............13 Meldreth Landscapes ........................6 Meldreth Motor Company ........Cover Meldreth Plant Hire .........................2 Meldreth Village Hall 100 Club........15 Moncraft Computers .........................7 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service 37 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ................15 Richard Burns Electrician .................6 Rod's PC Support ............................31 The Royal Oak Barrington ..............19 Royston Solar Solutions ...................23 Sage Blinds and Interiors ...................8 Simon’s Tiling Services .....................37 Specialist Dental Partners ............Cover Swift Solutions .................................23

Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers

*****

Donations towards Meldreth Matters' printing costs are always welcome.

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

40

Davey’s Butchers www.daveysbutchers.co.uk

Est. 1977 32 Station Road, Fieldgate Nurseries, Meldreth, SG8 6JP Telephone 01763 260193 Home of the celebrated gold award winning Meldreth Sausage Also our famous “footlongs” All hand crafted using natural skins Opening hours: 8am– 5pm Monday to Friday 8am– 2 pm Saturday 9am-1pm Sunday Under New Ownership

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