April 2017
THE WALKERS PARTNERSHIP SOLICITORS DO YOU NEED TO MAKE A WILL OR REVISE YOUR EXISTING WILL? If so, please take advantage of our reduced rate wills offer. Please note that reduced rate wills will be available every week day from 8.00am until 6.00pm and on Tuesdays evenings until 8.00pm, by appointment only. Also on the Saturday morning of 1st APRIL 2017, again by appointment only: Reduced rates are:Double Wills - £250.00 plus VAT Single Will - £130.00 plus VAT HOME VISITS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE WITHIN A 20 MILE RADIUS OF ROYSTON. For more information please contact:Fish Hill Chambers, 2-3 Fish Hill, Royston, Herts SG8 9JY Tel: 01763 241121 t.donnellan@walkerspartnership.co.uk
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Meldreth Matters, April 2017 Contents include … April Events in Meldreth Letters to the Editor Melwood Goes Global Local History Litter-Strewn Roads in Meldreth What’s On for Families Preschool Vacancies for School Governors Primary School Maycroft Care Home Good Companions Neighbourhood Watch WI Women’s Group Friends of Holy Trinity Link Murang’a Event Help for Groups and Charities Changes to No. 26 Bus Service Volunteering Opportunities Parish Council Gardening News From Heidi Allen News from Susan van de Ven District Councillor’s Report Photographic Club Planning Matters Local Events Cambridgeshire Constabulary Charity News Village Directory Index to Advertisers
Page 3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 12 13 15 16-17 18-19 19 20-21 21 22 25 26 27 27 28 33-36 38-39 40-41 42-44 46-47 47 48-50 52-53 54-55 56 58-59 60
I would like to thank Richard and Robin for putting together the March issue of Meldreth Matters while I was on holiday in Australia. It was a real luxury for me to have a complete break from the magazine for a month. It is not an easy task for someone to step in and edit the magazine for one issue and I am very grateful to both of them for their hard work. It’s perhaps worth mentioning that all of the members of the MM team are volunteers and, along with the deliverers, we give up our own time every month to bring you this magazine. We’re always happy to have your feedback or suggestions for ways in which you think we could improve MM and you can contact us at meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Kathryn
Cover: Maycroft Care Home, formerly The Homestead, 73 High Street, Meldreth 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 or delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT Tel. (01763) 268428 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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April Events in Meldreth Saturday 1st April, 10.30am until 12 noon Coffee Break Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way Coffee, tea or a soft drink will be available, along with a selection of biscuits. Do join us if you can. Following this, there will be a soup lunch served by the members of the Link Muranga team (see below and page 26), so if you can’t make the Coffee Morning then do support the team by sharing in this light lunch. We hope to see you there. Saturday 1st April, 12.00-2.30pm Link Murang’a Day Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way Soups and Puddings and more to raise funds to support the building of a dispensary at Kimbiti See page 26 for further details Monday 3rd April, 10.00am MLHG AGM Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way After a short business meeting, Bruce Huett will be giving a talk on the listed buildings in Meldreth See page 9 for further information Friday 14th April, 10.00am until 12 noon Good Friday Craft Workshop and Easter Egg Hunt Holy Trinity Church See back page for full details 3
Letters to the Editor Meldreth Geyser Storm Doris blew down a large tree across the road just by Guilden Brook on the Meldreth/ Shepreth border (see photograph). It took down all the telephone lines to the five nearby houses, plus it hit the water main pipe that traverses the brook causing a 30ft water spout (pictured). The tree was removed fairly quickly by some men with chainsaws who fortunately happened to be working at the back of one of the houses at the time and the water main was finally mended at about midnight that day. Unfortunately, Openreach were not so quick to fix the telephone lines and we only got back on line fourteen days after the storm. At the same time as the Photographs by Christine Knight telephone lines were being mended we got the new 40mph signs put up along Meldreth Road between Meldreth and Shepreth. Hopefully the new limit will be adhered to. Christine Knight 4
Letters to the Editor Melwood You will know me well enough by now to recognise that trees are one of my greatest loves and that I saw planted at least thirty while I was seeing to the establishment of Melwood. To see trees anywhere smothered in ivy so that their branches are hidden and their growth inhibited is my greatest hate. Wherever possible I have, bit by bit, fought and conquered this ghastly enemy of my life in my own patch and in Melwood, apart from the very back; there it is succeeding in killing and bringing down otherwise healthy trees. The hawthorns there are very spindly and hopefully will be coppiced to encourage fresh growth and allow us to see the blossom emerge low down. Going up the river path beyond my meadow, work would improve the look of things and there a tree will, all too soon, be collapsing and blocking the river. Can I make a heartfelt plea that the area across the river from the pub is allowed some more trees to bring life back where there was so much greenery and a haven for birds and animals? Dare I suggest a wildflower cover would be an added attraction, or perhaps that is just too much to ask? Our environment is so precious and uplifting and we can all help at very little cost. That river walk is enjoyed by many people and there is always something more that can be done to enhance it. Those of us who have the privilege of having land that adjoins it are both fortunate an responsible for its care. Margaret Hunter
Meldreth’s Community Access Point Free tuition in computer use Whether you are a complete beginner or want to learn more about getting the best out of your computer, our volunteer tutors can help you. Interested? Call Ron on (01763) 262199 5
Melwood Goes Global! Melwood, the small Local Nature Reserve by the footpath near the river, has now featured in a number of academic presentations in Asia. It has also had a volunteer from China working with the team. The links started with a presentation at the 2010 Cambridge Festival of Ideas by Bruce Huett entitled “Government Rhetoric, Local Initiatives” with the Social Anthropology Department. This led to a series of research projects on environmental knowledge and climate change, which are still continuing. The example of the event in Melwood with the Primary School and the community in 2012 was used to stimulate interest from other schools in Cambridgeshire. This resulted in a three year project which linked primary schools in Cambridgeshire to schools in Italy, Nepal, Mexico, Mongolia, Alaska and South Africa. In 2015 a Chinese scholar, Miaolijuan (pictured) from Beijing Normal University Earth Surface Processes Department spent a year working at Cambridge. During this time she decided to volunteer for Melwood. She initially found this a strange experience as she said “Why are you doing this? This should be done by the government!” However, once she realised the fun of team work in the open air, including sitting around a huge bonfire of coppiced wood, she became very enthusiastic. She also enjoyed the music evening in 2015, bringing along another Chinese visiting scholar. She has now returned to Beijing and has been promoting the idea of conservation volunteering both at her university and in her village – linking to a local NGO. 6
In 2014 Bruce participated in a workshop on conservation volunteering at Cambridge Conservation Forum and this provided the basis for subsequent lectures in China on small village conservation volunteering. This lecture has now been given at Chengdu University and the China Tibet Research Centre in Beijing. He has also participated in workshops on the environment and conservation at Beijing Normal University, Yunnan University, the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences and with colleagues in Nepal. Melwood activities have also been discussed at seminars at Vienna University on climate change, environmental knowledge and Buddhism. The pictures of Melwood volunteering and events, the diverse wildlife and the website, melwood.btck.co.uk, are well received and stimulate lively discussion. The Melwood Conservation Group is delighted to share its experiences and activities across cultures and would be happy to show any foreign visitors the wood and explain our objectives. Please contact Bruce Huett at brucehuett@compuseve.com or telephone (01763) 232855. Melwood Conservation Group
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The Great War – Exploding Some Myths The ‘loss of a whole generation’, a ‘futile and unnecessary conflict’, ‘brave soldiers sacrificed by the inept leadership of officers’, a war ‘fought only in the trenches of the Western Front.’ These are all common misconceptions of the Great War 1914 – 1918, myths which need to be exploded, argued Rory Stephens in his excellent talk to the Meldreth Local History Group’s coffee morning on Monday 6th March. Speaking to an audience of over 40 for more than an hour and without a note, he was careful to emphasise that it was a terrible and unprecedented war with huge loss of life on all sides. Many more were left with life-changing injuries, both physical and psychological, the latter much less well understood than they are today. For all the families and friends of these men the impact was devastating but the harm the four year struggle inflicted was sufficient in its own right to need no exaggeration. So, while 750,000 British lives were lost in the Great War (1.2 million including the Commonwealth dead), it was still the case that five out of six soldiers returned alive when the fighting was over. There were notable exceptions with some regiments such as the Accrington Pals losing over 80% of their men on the first day of the Battle of the Somme but generally casualties were not as high as this. Nor did Rory Stephens’ extensive research and reading of wartime memoirs bear out the commonly held view that the infantrymen were like ‘lions led by donkeys’. He found that most soldiers had a high regard for their officers and for the courage they showed in leading them into battle. Officers operated under enormous constraints, lacking many of the technologies, equipment and intelligence that would be available to them today. Typically, they fought alongside the men they commanded and not from behind the lines. Statistically, they were more likely to be killed than those in the lower ranks. Figures such as General Haig have been much maligned but, though flawed, he had a hugely complex job with responsibility for 2.5 million troops and made many brave and sound decisions. Rory Stephens also challenged the notion that the Great War was one that didn’t need to be fought. He reminded his audience that, though the reasons for the conflict were complex, Germany had adopted a ‘total war’ approach and, if unopposed, would have over-run Europe and left Great Britain cut off and isolated. To suggest otherwise, in his view, would be to dishonour the memory of the many who died and 8
were injured. Appalling though the conditions in many of the trenches were, only half the soldiers who served actually fought in one – many others were involved in supply and tactical operations which could still be hazardous but didn’t carry the risks of serving on the front line itself. Rory, originally from Shepreth, is a former teacher who now devotes himself to researching the Great War and leading tours to the battlefield sites of Northern France and Belgium (www.battle-honours.eu). One of those attending, himself a former BBC journalist, wrote after the talk “Rory Stephens’s approach to the subject was a revelation. His mastery of the facts, the result of many years of study, allowed him to explode the many myths which have clouded our understanding of those destructive years.” John Crawforth Meldreth Local History Group
Meldreth Local History Group AGM Our 10th Annual General Meeting will take place in the Sheltered Housing Community Room in Elin Way on Monday 3rd April at 10.00am. After a short business meeting, Bruce Huett, a member of the group, will give an illustrated overview of the listed structures of Meldreth including a description of some of the local building materials used in their construction. The talk will also cover a brief history of listing and the process involved. All are welcome, so please join us for free refreshments. Kathryn Betts Secretary
New to the village? Information on village facilities and over 30 local groups is available at
www.meldrethhistory.org.uk 9
Litter-Strewn Roads in Meldreth! How can we resolve this? Early in March, the Highway Scheme's Meldreth volunteers called a Community Litter Pick, inviting others to participate. Sixteen residents duly reported for duty resplendent in fashionable hi-vis jackets and we targeted the outer reaches of Kneesworth and Whaddon roads plus the west rural end of Whitecroft Road. Around 45 bags of rubbish plus some un-baggable stuff were picked up for collection by South Cambs Environmental Services. After coming up close to the thoughtless distribution of litter, ranging from beer cans to vodka bottles and much in between, post-pick, several folk came up with ideas for our greater picking efficiency: one volunteer requisitioned a rake from his garden shed to help remove stuff from ditches - a brilliant idea to be used for the future too another, with an upcoming birthday, requested as a present, a 'great & beautiful' (has someone else used this phrase??) extendible picker-tool for the parts that others cannot reach, yet another, ditch tested the Mk1 Distance Recovery Tool he invented ‌ some adjustment was apparently needed and reliable sources claim that a Mk2 version is secretly under development! two folk have offered their personal ways of leaning on our local MP and the local authorities to raise the profile of the environmental scourge of road-side littering and fly-tipping. Post-pick, there was a consensus amongst the volunteers for repetition, as until everyone can be encouraged to dispose of their litter responsibly, our local roads will be litter strewn again in a few months. Keep Britain Tidy – Keep Meldreth Tidy! If you are interested in participating in a future Litter-Pick or in joining the Highways Scheme volunteers, please contact Graham on gvborgo@borgognon.net for details. Graham Borgonon
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What’s On for Children and Families in April Tuesdays 4th and 11th April, various times from 10.30am onwards Pond dipping, minibeasts: Wicken Fen, Lode Lane, Ely CB7 5XP Outdoor event for children aged 3+. To book call 0344 249 1895 or online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk. £3.20 per child. Wednesday 5th April, 10.00am or 11.00am for accompanied children 2 – 5 years, 12.00pm to 3.00pm for primary school age Theatre workshops, Wandlebury Country Park, CB22 3AE Nature meets imagination with the Vital Sparks Theatre Company. £5 for pre-school children, £20 for school age children. To book contact katherine@vitalsparkstheatre.org. Saturday 8th April, 2.30pm ‘Frozen’ sing-along, Royston Town Hall, Royston SG8 7DA See the film and sing the songs. £5 if you book before the 5th from www.billetto.co.uk; £3.50 on the day if seats are still available. Wednesday 12th April, 11.00am – 1.00pm Egg event, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Egg decorating and storytelling. £8 for children 5 years and over. To book, call (01223) 332904 or email education@fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk. Friday 28th April to Monday 1st May – various times Ely Eel Festival, Ely World Eel Throwing event (stuffed toys only!), carnival procession, music, pottery workshops, historical re-enactments, street food including eels. For details see www.elyeelfestival.co.uk. Saturday 29th April, 2.00pm – 4.00pm Make! Art on a bag, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Design your own tote bag with the help of an artist. £5 for 11 to 13 year olds. To book, call (01223) 332904 or email as above. Saturday 29th April – Monday 1st May, 10.00am – 5.00pm Fairy and Elf Walk, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB Find all the fairies and elves in their wooden tree houses, take a train ride, try crafts, complete an I Spy booklet. Booking recommended; call (01799) 542134. Prices to be confirmed nearer the time. Compiled by Hilary Crawforth
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Meldreth Preschool www.meldrethpreschool.com With spring springing out all over the place, the children are getting more and more time in the garden, and our trips to the woods involve spotting daffodils, snowdrops and other signs that the plants and trees are about to burst back into life. We have had a hugely exciting visit from Jo from the Village Vet who taught the children all about looking after pets, explained what she does as a veterinary nurse and brought a couple of furry friends in to meet the children. Thank you ever so much to the team at the Village Vet the preschool were thrilled to get the chance to experience something so exciting and have a new understanding of what it means to be a good pet owner. The children and their parents have also enjoyed a visit from Tesco’s Farm to Fork team who brought a selection of delicious food in for the children to try. With the focus on healthy eating and how to choose a range of foods to keep your body strong and help you to grow, the children and parents got the chance to try new foods and find out which combinations are their favourites. With Easter approaching, the preschool will be running an Easter Egg Hunt – you can get your sheet of clues from the preschool at either drop -off or pick-up time (9.00am or 3.00pm) and the winner will be announced over the Easter weekend. Check our website at www.meldrethpreschool.com for details and join in the fun! The children of the preschool are always eager to learn about what grown ups get up to during the day, so if you have a job or hobby that you think they would like to hear about, please get in touch. We would love to have you come and talk to us about what you do, so please contact our team on manager@meldrethpreschool.com to arrange a time to share your stories with us. There are still spaces available at the preschool for children aged 2 and above who want the chance to socialise, play and learn. You can make an appointment to visit the preschool to meet the staff, see what happens in a typical day and talk about your requirements. Simply telephone our manager Cassie on 07518 173653 or email manager@meldrethpreschool.com. Meldreth Preschool 13
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Meldreth Primary School: Vacancies for Governors Have you ever thought about becoming a School Governor? Our Governing Body is recruiting and has vacancies for two co-opted Governors at Meldreth Primary School. We are looking for committed and enthusiastic people with the time and energy to support the continued efforts of our team. You do not have to have children at the school to become a co-opted Governor. We are a small yet highly motivated group whose sole aim is to ensure that each and every child in our school achieves their best educational outcomes through the provision of appropriate, high quality academic and pastoral care. The Governing Body has a collective responsibilities to primarily; develop the vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school and ensure it is communicated to the wider audience; hold the Headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school ensure that the school is financially solvent with effective management of resources No one Governor has sole responsibility for the work of the Governing Body, we work together to meet our collective aims. The role of a Governor is highly rewarding and allows people from all walks of life who don't have a teaching background to make a real and tangible difference to our school. We meet at least once a term as a full Governing Body and then once or twice in our sub-committee groups. We are currently recruiting new Governors who may have finance skills, analytic skills, health & safety skills, leadership and are enthusiastic and willing to learn. If you would like to find out more about the role please email SZacherino@meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Meldreth Primary School
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Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk The Joy of Bedtime Stories! With so many demands on parents’ time and with such a plethora of technological distractions these days, it can be hard enough for families to fit in time to listen to their children reading every day, let alone making additional space for a bedtime story! Yet for those who can, the benefits are enormous. In school last month, we held an extremely successful twilight event to promote bedtime reading among our families. Children arrived in their droves, dressed for bedtime, in their jimmies and their onesies, armed with teddies and pillows, while teachers and staff had prepared cosy areas around the school with lullabies playing and fairy lights winking, to create a perfect atmosphere for some shared bedtime stories. While parents waited for their children in the hall, a short talk was provided on the value of bedtime stories: children who enjoy being regularly read to, acquire a great depth of understanding of vocabulary and patterns and rhythms of language which in turn enrich their own spoken and written communication considerably. In addition, stories that children encounter as they are read to offer great opportunities for them to develop a strong moral compass and to discuss a wide variety of issues that may elude them when they are simply reading to themselves. Reluctant or struggling readers can enjoy all the benefits of reading and enjoying books that may simply be otherwise too demanding for them to tackle themselves and it is absolutely true that the most accomplished writers I have taught over the past 30 years are always those who have enjoyed bedtime stories well into their junior years. Possibly the richest reward of all for parents and children alike however, is the priceless ‘together’ time that bedtime reading offers, which can admittedly be so hard to find or set up in the harem scarem realm of modern family life! I asked the children in Chaffinch Class to note what books meant to them. Here are three of their responses to the question. To me, books are magical. Books mean a great deal to me, because when I read them, I feel like I am the main character of the story. The books that I read are like real adventure. I could say that reading is dreaming with your eyes open. When I read a good book, I feel so happy! It takes me away to magical places I never knew existed and it 16
makes me realise imagination makes its own story, so if a story has no pictures, I can imagine them. Trixie There are times at home when, with all six of us it can get noisy. Even when it is noisy, I have a quick place I get lost in every day. This is what happens when I read a book I really like. I enjoy getting sucked into the pages and sometimes it is a nice, quiet place to be. You can watch a film, such as Goosebumps or The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, but when you read a book it is in more detail and much better. After reading, when I go to sleep, I sometimes dream I’m a character from the book I’ve read and the book becomes real again and I can’t wait to get on to the next chapter. Lily-Rose When I read a book I get excited and want to know more. Books fill me with joy - sometimes they take me to a book world, where I can no longer hear what is happening in the real world. If I am bored, a book entertains me with magical words and puts me in a dream land. My favourite books are ones where it is real life and something magical happens which creates an adventure. Books can make me laugh out loud when they’re hilarious. Thanks to books I get bedtime stories and then I spend time with my family. Alexander H All aged 9 Scarlet in Year 2 accidentally forgot to take her teddy home after the bedtime session in school. Fortunately, Mrs Plumb was on hand to provide alternative accommodation until Scarlet and bear could be reunited in the morning! Andrew Jones Deputy Headteacher 17
Maycroft Care Home Many will know of us, but for those who don't, Maycroft is located in the High Street and is a residential home for 25 residents from near and far. The home is always very welcoming to all visitors whether coming to visit a friend, relative or just to see what goes on. There is always a cup of tea to welcome you. Every day there is a program of activities, morning and afternoon, including quizzes, cooking, bingo, pamper sessions and reminiscing of their yesterdays with a weekly newspaper full of photos to aid memories and stimulate conversation. Once or twice a month Singalong Jim visits and many residents enjoy joining in or doing a shuffle dance with a carer. Juke Box Legends, a couple, come every month and usually bring Elvis Presley with them! In addition, we have a number of outings and events each year. In 2016 these included: visits to Duxford Air Museum and Audley End house our annual summer fete, where residents help with running the stalls and this is open to the outside community our Annual Proms in August, led by Olivia Barry a mezzo soprano known mainly in operatic circles. Flags were waved and the usual last night patriotic songs were sung. A cream tea was served in our courtyard garden as the weather was kind to us a firework display and hotdogs with onions to celebrate bonfire night a performance of Dick Whittington to kick off our Christmas events carols under the tree on 11th December when Olivia returned to sing with residents and their families. Mulled wine and warm mince pies were served a Christmas party on Saturday 17th December with songs and dancing from Jim, a delicious buffet bar and, of course, a bumper raffle. Already in 2017 those who wished to, visited Anglesey Abbey to see the snowdrops and to take in the fresh air as we strolled along the beautiful Winter Walk. At the end of March a trip to Wimpole Hall Farm is planned to see the young lambs and other farm animals and birds. 18
In February 2016 the CQC carried out the home was pronounced to be Good the parent company, placed Maycroft homes which are spread out across Scotland.
an unannounced inspection and in all areas inspected. Advinia, at the top of its list of sixteen the country from London to
The care the residents receive here is always warm and kindly and with relations and friends allowed to visit at any time for as long as they wish. Maycroft is as near to them being in their own home as it can be. In fact it is like being part of one big family. With all this in mind, Advinia is one of the few companies about to build on, rather than close a home. During 2017 a new wing is to be built in the garden at the back, with all modern facilities. The 25 present residents will move into that, hopefully by Christmas, and the present wing will be completely demolished and rebuilt with another 25 rooms in 2018. Then the home will have a total of 50 rooms, not too big to lose its homely, caring atmosphere. Using our very useful and informative village magazine, Meldreth Matters, we hope to keep you updated on future events and progress. Rosemary and Ray Friends of Maycroft
Good Companions Our last meeting was on 2nd March when a lovely lady from Age UK came to give us a talk and information regarding growing older, which some of our members found helpful. We had our raffle and tea and biscuits as usual while deciding that our Easter competition this year will be to decorate an ordinary egg box, which will give us all a bit of a challenge. Our next meeting is on Thursday 6th April from 2.00pm to 4.00pm as usual. We are still hoping for some new members, so why not give us a try? Laraine Pocknell, Secretary (01763) 261432 19
Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch Hertfordshire Police have issued a warning that telephone scammers are targeting residents across Hertfordshire, claiming to be conducting a investigation into counterfeit money. A fraudster telephones you claiming to be from your bank or the police. They tell you that your bank is issuing counterfeit notes and that your help is needed in the investigation. They suggest that you hang up and ring the bank/police back to ensure that the call is genuine. Don't be fooled: they stay on the line. They then ask you to attend your bank and withdraw your money. They send a taxi or courier to you to collect your money, which they claim will be examined forensically as part of the investigation. They reassure you that your money will be returned. The police and banks would never ask you to withdraw your money and send it to them! Beware when someone suggests you ring back to ensure a call is genuine. When you dial, they haven't released the original call so you are still talking to the scammers. If possible, phone on a different line (mobile or neighbour's phone), using a phone number you have found yourself, e.g. from a bank statement. Always Take Five to protect yourself from fraud: 1. Never disclose security details, such as your PIN or full banking password. 2. Don’t assume an email, text or telephone call is authentic. 3. Don’t be rushed – a genuine organisation won’t mind waiting. 4. Listen to your instincts – you know if something doesn’t feel right. 5. Stay in control – don’t panic and make a decision you’ll regret. Find out more about the Take Five campaign to combat financial fraud at https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/ or search "take five stop fraud". Don't forget the trusted contacts in Meldreth who you can talk to about a possible scam, which may include being asked to buy by a cold caller: Graham (01763) 260358; Peter (01763) 260323; Linda (01763) 261405; Tim (01763) 262801 Anyone can report a scam to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.
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The Cambridge Police website for reporting a variety of issues is www.contactcambspolice.uk. If you are the sort of person who likes to watch out for neighbours and notices things out of the ordinary, joining Neighbourhood Watch in Meldreth will allow you to contribute to keeping crime low across South Cambridgeshire. Please contact Graham Borgonon on (01763) 260358. Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch
Meldreth WI It was all change last night at our Annual meeting. Mrs Maureen Moody stepped down as President and we welcomed Mrs Jane Bates back as our new President. The evening ended with a lovely spread of cakes, tea and coffee. The quizzes kept the brains working and a convivial atmosphere set the tongues wagging. Even though we are very short of committee members, I feel sure an interesting list of speakers and events will be arranged for the coming year. Energetic exercise is getting beyond some of us but next month Val Ford will be leading us through 'seated exercises' and that isn't always as easy as it sounds!! If you feel you would like to come to our meeting but don't feel like coming on your own for the first time please ring our President on (01763) 261638 and Jane will arrange for you to be picked up. We do, to a certain degree, have to stick to WI business but it is nice to have a 'cuppa' and a chat to ladies you may not see otherwise and meet new people. When I moved to Meldreth many moons ago, I felt very isolated after coming from a busy community. I was asked by a neighbour if I would like to join the WI and after some consideration decided to do so and I am very pleased I did. Not only did I get to know new ladies, but I attended day schools and outings, even went to our own college, Denman. So you see, the WI can open many doors for you ‌ come and try it. We are not all 'Jam and Jerusalem'. Kathleen Thompson 21
Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group In February, Irena came to talk to us about Cambridge Street Pastors. They patrol on Friday and Saturday evenings between the hours of 10.00pm and 4.00am after they have had a briefing from the police. Their aim is to make sure that revellers get home safely and they save the NHS thousands of pounds. Sometimes this may mean telephoning parents to come and pick people up! Most people welcome the Street Pastors. They are not there to preach but they will answer questions and pray if asked to. They are kept in touch with the police by radio and sometimes pubs/restaurants may ask them to come and look after someone. If they come across genuine homeless people they will try to encourage them to go to Jimmy’s Night Shelter or a church with cold weather provision. They carry a rucksack containing first aid kit, flip flops (try walking in heels when drunk) and blankets to keep people warm and protect modesty! They also carry a dustpan and brush to sweep up broken glass and pick up between 40 and 200 glass bottles a night which could be used as potential weapons. If an ambulance has to be called it can be frustrating, as the pastors don’t get to know what happens to that person. Sometimes they find girls/women who have been abandoned after a row with their boyfriends and may have no money, telephone, etc. On one occasion the police took a girl home to ensure her safety. Apparently Halloween is a bad night to patrol as it is so messy. However, the Pastors have nothing but admiration for the street cleaners, who they never see, but nevertheless ensure the streets are clean for the next day. We gave Irena our thanks for a really interesting talk and a donation towards Cambridge Street Pastors: www.cambridgestreetpastors.org.uk. Melbourn and Meldreth Women's Group next meeting will be on Tuesday 25th April at Meldreth Meeting Room, Holy Trinity Church when Terry Morris from Hertfordshire Police will be talking to us about security scams. If you would like to know anything more about the group or would like a lift please contact one of the committee members: Pat Smith (01763) 262575, Sue Toule on (01763)260955), Anne Harrison on (01763) 261775 or Angela Leach on (01763) 262793). Pat Smith 22
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ROYSTON FENCING TEL 01763 261150 FENCING, GATES INCLUDING ELECTRIC MADE TO ORDER ALL TYPES OF FENCING AND GATES SHEDS AND GARDEN FURNITURE DECKING, PATIOS & PERGOLAS SLEEPERS, PAVING & NATURAL STONE WWW.ROYSTONFENCING.CO.UK KNEESWORTH RD. MELDRETH ROYSTON
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The Letting Centre Setting Standards in Property Management Established 23 years, The Letting Centre is a local, dedicated letting agency based in Melbourn. With longstanding clients some of whom have been with us for 20 years or more, we aim to provide a personal, tailored service covering Cambridge, Royston, Buntingford, Saffron Walden and surrounding villages. We offer discounted fees for multiple properties, as well as those located in Melbourn and surrounding area. Call us for a free market appraisal and comprehensive landlord pack.
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Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk
Forthcoming Events AGM, Friday 12th May, 8.00pm To review the year’s events and future plans, elect committee members and officers, approve the accounts and review recent and future funding in support of the fabric of the church, including any relevant resolutions. There will be a social after the meeting. Open Gardens, Sunday 4th June Contact with potential Open Garden owners has started. 13th Annual Churchyard Car show, Sunday 3rd September
Church Matters By the time this is published the roof alarm will have been fitted. There will be security cover during the hours of darkness with members of the congregation and nearby residents monitoring any alarms during daylight hours and we are grateful to them all. It is also expected that approval will have been given for the replacement noticeboard and it should be on order by the time you are reading this. John Price
Joint Parish Prayer Group The Prayer Group will be meeting at the home of Patricia Smith at 23 Armingford Crescent in Melbourn at 8.00pm on Tuesday 18th April. Prayer requests are welcomed but please join Pat and the team for a time of quietness and reflection. Marion Long
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‘Soups and Puddings’ and more…….
To raise funds to support building the dispensary at Kambiti
Saturday 1st April 2017 at Elin Way Community Room, Meldreth 12.00 – 2.30pm To support the community building a Health Centre and Dispensary in Kambiti, Kenya
Plus books, crafts, cakes and produce, gifts for sale, raffle, tombola, tea, coffee and various other items for sale - All Welcome 26
Help Available For Community Groups and Charities Hunts Forum and Cambridge CVS (part of Support Cambridgeshire), are here to assist any voluntary, community or charitable organisation operating in Cambridgeshire. This help can be assistance with: finding funding; acting as a critical friend – looking through funding applications; advice and information on DBS checks for example; setting up your group; networking events where you can meet other like-minded organisations; training on subjects such as Safeguarding or First Aid; the creation of your policies and procedures such as a constitution. If you would like some support please contact us where we will be happy to assist. Angela Haylock Development Officer Hunts Forum of Voluntary Organisations Huntingdon Direct tel: 01480 420604 Mobile: 07809 214895
Changes to No. 26 Bus Service From 9th April, the 3.30pm journey from Royston to Cambridge will end at Trumpington Park and Ride and not in Cambridge City Centre. Full details and copies of the timetable can be obtained by contacting Stagecoach directly on (01223) 433250 or sending an email to cambridge.enquiries@stagecoachbus.com or by going to the website, www.stagecoachbus.com. Passenger Transport Team Cambridgeshire County Council 27
Volunteering Opportunities Below is a selection of local volunteering opportunities. If you are looking for volunteers for your group or charity and would like your request featured in a future issue of Meldreth Matters, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Neighbourhood Watch, Meldreth If you are the sort of person who likes to watch out for neighbours and notices things out of the ordinary, joining Neighbourhood Watch in Meldreth will allow you to contribute to keeping crime low across South Cambridgeshire. To find out more, please contact Graham Borgonon on (01763) 260358. Royston & District Community Transport RDCT needs more drivers. Can you help us provide transport for those who have mobility problems, disability or have no alternative way of getting around? If you can drive a car or minibus then you may be able to help elderly and disabled local people to attend medical appointments, go shopping or take part in social activities. Expenses will be paid and insurance cover is provided. You must have a clean driving licence which you have held for at least two years if using your own car. To drive our minibus you must be aged over 25 years. A friendly personality and the ability to communicate with older people would be helpful. For further information see www.roytrans.co.uk or telephone (01763) 245228. Royston May Fayre, Monday 1st May Volunteers are needed to help with the smooth running of this wellloved community event, which will be taking place on Monday 1st May this year. We are looking for volunteers to help steward the event from midday to 4.30pm for a couple of hours. Volunteers would be walking around the site, checking on stalls and visitors. We especially need help between 4.00pm and 6.00pm to help clear away after the events. Volunteers will need to undergo a criminal record check (DBS). See http://www.roystonvolunteer.org.uk for more details of this and other local volunteering opportunities. 28
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Quicksilver Yoga Stretch, strengthen, energise and relax. Suitable for all abilities. New classes starting Thursday evenings at Gymbos Personal Training Studio, Meldreth. 7pm - 8pm and 8pm - 9pm Small class size. Book your space now. For more information contact Quicksilver1yoga@gmail.com Or phone: 07874719155
WE LISTEN SUPPORT ADVISE EMPOWER. YOU ASPIRE. There are many demands on a business owner’s time, and despite what most accountants think, the accounts are not usually at the top of the list! Having the support of a Business Advisor who not only takes care of the financial essentials but who listens and empowers you to focus on those areas that only you can deal with is essential in helping your business thrive. If that’s the kind of relationship you want with your accountant, give us a call. Bracey’s Accountants (Cambs) Limited HFL House 1 Saxon Way Melbourn Cambs SG8 6DN Tel: (01223) 929150 Email: tracey@braceys-accountants.co.uk
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Meldreth Villag Monday
Tuesday
Did You Know? Every copy of Meldreth Matters from January 2009 onwards is available online at free.yudu.com 10.00am-12.00 noon Meldreth Local History Group 10th AGM
10.00am-12.00 Handbells
Wednesday
Thur
The copy deadline for the May issue of Meldreth Matters is Wednesday 12th April
7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 2.00-4.00pm Companions 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis 7.30pm Paris
3 4 5 6 10 11 12 1 17 18 19 2 24 25 26 2
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
5.00-6.00pm Junior Martial Arts 5.30pm Veg Plus Club, Bury Farm, 42 North End 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 5.30pm Veg Plus club visit 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
10.00am-12.00 Handbells 9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.30pm WI
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis
Start of school term
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.45-11.30am Mobile Library 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 7.45pm Women’s Group
9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group
6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis
Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 ‘Coffee Break’ mornings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Browni room. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the lay-by oppos 30
ge Diary - April
sday
Friday
Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm Mouse Show 10.30am-12 noon Coffee Break 12.00-2.30pm Soups and Puddings, Sheltered Housing Rm, Elin Way
Sunday 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
1 2 6 7 8 9 3 14 15 16 0 21 22 23 7 28 29 30 School Easter holiday is from 1st to 17th April inclusive
8.00am Holy Communion
Good
5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
m Table
h Council
m Fitness
9.45am Family Communion for Easter Day 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
10.00am - 12.00 Good Friday Craft Workshop Holy Trinity Church (see back page)
m Fitness
8.00am Holy Communion
m Table
5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
m Fitness
8.00am Holy Communion
m Table
5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
North End. Cam Valley Crafters, Good Companions, Meldreth Local History Group and the es, Messy Church & Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group meet in the Holy Trinity meeting ite Holy Trinity Church. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated. 31
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Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 2nd March 2017 at 7.30pm in the Green Room of Meldreth Village Hall. Present: Mr C A Land - Chairman, Mr N P Pellatt - Vice Chairman, Mrs C J Fallon, Mr R Goddin, Mr D Lee, Mr R A Searles and Mr A Young In attendance: Mrs J Damant (Clerk), Councillor P Hart (SCDC) and Councillor S van de Ven (CCC) Apologies for absence from Mr D Stewart and Mr A Keena. Public Participation There were no members of the public in attendance. Report from District Councillor See pages 46-47. Report from County Councillor The full report is available on the County Councillor’s website, http:// susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/. For other news from Susan van de Ven, see pages 42-44. Meldreth Futures Working Group It was proposed by Councillor Young and seconded by Councillor Goddin that the Parish Council accept the Terms of Reference. This was agreed by all. Motion carried. It was proposed by Councillor Young and seconded by Councillor Goddin that the Parish Council accept the Financial Application Form. This was agreed by all. Motion passed. The Clerk has received an application from Melbourn Village College for a Pupil Premium Champion. Church Wall The Clerk, Councillor Land, Mr J Price and Ms Celia Wignall (SCDC), met at the church to look at the wall which is in need of repair. It was decided that The Clerk should contact M Llewellyn to enquire what the cost would be for him to attend a site meeting with Ms Wignall so that a specification could be put together. Ms Wignall suggested that having an architect present would be beneficial. Mr Llewellyn’s quotation to 33
attend was ÂŁ572.00. This would be needed for tenders for the works but SCDC should also be included in this process as planning permission would be needed. Marley Eternit Proposed Development of 150 Houses Nothing new to report at present. Playground Monthly Report: the Clerk has contacted Mr Chappell to repair the wood on the rocking horse. The zip wire problem is still ongoing. Specifications have been sent out to three companies for the works required to the trees and hedges. Awaiting responses. Recreation Ground It was proposed by Councillor Goddin that The Clerk proceeds to ask for quotations to clear the ditch, build up the banks and clear the foliage. To be discussed further when quotations received. It was also suggested that The Clerk contact Mr Kratz to see who best to contact with regard to a land lawyer to pursue ownership matters. Pavilion Update Councillor Pellatt reported that he had visited the site on many occasions over the past month and was very happy with the progress. Stage 1 has now been completed and Stage 2 will be completed soon. Councillor Young proposed that the schedule of works should be formally signed off. This was seconded by Councillor Goddin. All agreed. Motion carried. Councillor Pellatt also asked that The Clerk send out the invoice to the Saturday Football Club for use of the ground. The Clerk has received a quotation from Briar Security to install CCTV and Alarm at the pavilion due to the recent break in. Councillor Young suggested that the cost was prohibitively high and that there may be a more cost effective option. Councillor Young will investigate further. Pavilion Management Programme It was agreed to put an advert in both Meldreth Matters and the shop for a cleaner to work 3 hours per week at the pavilion. It was also agreed to put an advert in Meldreth Matters asking for a volunteer to oversee the management of the pavilion.
34
Correspondence and Clerk's Report The Clerk has emailed CCC regarding the Speed Reduction Signs along North End. CCC are chasing contractors. Burial ground weed killing is to be undertaken. The Clerk is to attend an SLCC legal training course on 17th March. Community Safety Day is to be held at Cambourn on 13th March. Affordable Housing training is to be held at Cambourn also on 13th March. Time banking workshop has been arranged at Histon on 3rd April by Cambridgeshire ACRE Planning training: Melbourn Parish Council have a training day on Saturday 22nd April. Councillors Land and Young to attend. Trees along North End During the recent storm a tree along North End came down. It appears the trees are the responsibility of the land owners however in the past this has been disputed. Councillor Searles has received a map from CCC and from this the land owner seems to be correct. Councillor Searles and Councillor Van De Ven will respond to CCC Highways Department. Tennis Courts The Tennis Club are actively investigating all avenues for possible grants. The Parish Council have now received the paperwork regarding the quotation received from ECT, the Clubs chosen contractors. Trees Along Ditch at the Layby opposite the Church The clerk and Mrs Lynch (Meldreth Tree Officer) met with Mr Peter J Taylor of CCC Highways who informed them that the ditch up to the lip of the land on the layby side was the sole responsibility of the landowner and not Highways. This would suggest that all the trees growing along side the ditch are the responsibility of the landowners who border the ditch. The Clerk will notify the relevant landowners. Mettle Hill Councillor Goddin reported that he had had a meeting with the Planning Department at SCDC with regard to what the Parish Council may be able to do with the site. 35
He reported that he was disappointed with how the meeting progressed. It was suggested that Councillor Goddin and Councillor Young put a report together on how to proceed. This should be put before the Parish Council at the next meeting. Councillors' Reports: Councillor Searles reported that North End is to be closed for three days from 20th March for gas work. Councillor Young enquired about the 20’s Plenty signs. The Clerk reported that Mr Peter J Taylor at Highways had passed the Parish Councils report onto a different department within CCC and was awaiting a response. There being no further business, the Chairman closed the meeting at 9.27pm. The next meeting will be on Thursday 6th April 2017. Meldreth Parish Council The official Minutes of Meldreth Parish Council are those signed in Public Meetings by the Chairman. They are available for public inspection from the Clerk and can also be accessed on the Parish Council website at www.meldreth-pc.org.uk or on the Parish Council notice board opposite the One Stop shop.
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 10.00 am to 12 noon. By appointment at other times. Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928
parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk
Parish Councillors: Mrs C J Fallon
(01763) 262822
joan.fallon@btinternet.com
Mr R Goddin
(01763) 260061
goddin@btinternet.com
Mr A Keena
(01763) 260267
alankeena@aol.com
Mr C A Land (Chairman) (01763) 261004
c.land963@btinternet.com
Mr D Lee
david@oakrits.plus.com
(01763) 261571
Mr Nigel Pellatt (Vice Ch) (01763) 262444
nppellatt@btconnect.com
Mr R A Searles
(01763) 260435
robert.searles@btinternet.com
Mr A Young
(01763) 263484
andrewmpc@gmail.com
36
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37
Notes from a Small Garden April can be an exciting month in the garden. As one of my friends in the village pointed out as we walked round her garden, almost every day brings change with something new coming out. As I write this in mid March the hellebores have been a particular joy and the daffodils, February Gold and February Silver, bred by a distant cousin of mine and named by his two daughters, are spreading beautifully under the birch trees. Although the cold grey spell in February was depressing, I am hoping that we will not be so troubled by slugs and snails this year. I meant to move two clumps of the lovely large snowdrops, “snow flake” or Leucojum from in front of the house as they were chewed to bits last year, but of course forgot and this year I suddenly found them flowering in February: a wonderful surprise. But shall I leave them there in case this coming winter is mild? For some reason the clump I have in one of the borders never seems to be an attractive meal for these gastropods. The number of jobs to do in the garden at this time of year is huge. The first is to try to keep on top of the weeds! It took me a long time to become proficient with a hoe, but I am particularly fond of my father’s swoe angled hoe, which has a right angle at the end and is really good for getting around plants. Most of the time I weed on my knees on a cushion as I find the types which allow you to push up to stand uncomfortable. Next, start sowing outside if the soil feels warm enough. Brussels sprouts, kale, Swiss chard, broad beans, onions, perpetual spinach, summer cauliflower, leeks, lettuce, radish, turnips, and kohl rabi are all good to pop in now. I confess to having bought beetroot plugs last year. They were a huge success, as I followed the instructions NOT to divide the plugs into small plants and plant them out separately. Sweet peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergines, pumpkins, courgettes and squashes can all be planted indoors, as they need warmth to germinate. I usually plant the bean family indoors in the poly tunnel first and plant them out later when they are at least six inches tall, otherwise the mice eat them. 38
Those of you who have chitted your potatoes need to start getting them in now. Not everyone believes in doing this and the practice certainly takes over the larder in our house! Get the earlies in at the beginning of the month and the main crop by the end. Tie in climbing roses, and those clematis that don’t need pruning hard down to the ground. I pop my dahlias into compost in March, having dried them out in newspaper and hung them up in newspaper and then plant them out once the shoots are high enough to keep an eye on. Finally, if it’s a sunny day, sit down and admire everything, preferably with coffee or something stronger in your hand. Jim says “when the hedges were cut by hand, the old boys would not cut the holly”! I am not surprised. Please keep an eye on the village diary each month in Meldreth Matters as there have been some changes to the programme of the Veg Plus meetings.
Good gardening! Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk
ACT’s Make a Will Week: 24th-28th April Making or updating your will can seem like a big challenge. However, it can be a lot more affordable and straightforward than you may think. Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust’s annual Make a Will Week takes place this year from 24th to 28th April. A group of local solicitors and will-writers have kindly agreed to waive their usual fees and write or update a simple will, in return for you making a donation to change patients’ lives at Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie hospitals. To find out more simply call Katharine on (01223) 217757, email hello@act4addenbrookes.org.uk or visit our website, www.act4addenbrookes.org.uk/makeawill. Jo Elliott Head of Communications Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT) 39
News from Heidi Allen In my last newsletter, education was the key theme. This month it’s all things infrastructure! Where to start…!? I had the pleasure of meeting the new Chief Executive of the City Deal, Rachel Stopard. You won’t be surprised to hear I shared my concerns with her about the Cambourne to Cambridge busway proposal known as 3/3a, which would cut across green belt north of Coton. We must of course find an effective public transport link, but spending upwards of £140m on a guided busway that cuts through swathes of greenbelt and doesn’t even connect with the city centre is sheer madness to me. Local groups are proposing alternative, cheaper options and I will fight hard to ensure they are considered fully before a final decision is made. Public money is tight and we must spend it wisely. I’ve also coordinated a number of meetings with stakeholders including Highways England, Abellio Greater Anglia, Govia, Laing, Network Rail, District Council Leader Peter Topping and County Councillors to name but a few! I want us to bid for some of the Government’s autumn statement money Above: the A505 meeting for a number of local improvements. It may be that we can combine funds with those available in the existing City Deal and our devolution deal due to go live in May. I’m interested principally in upgrading the A505 from the M11 to the A11 including the bridge at Whittlesford (I haven’t forgotten about a cycle path linking Duxford and Whittlesford!) and the well overdue Foxton level crossing. I’ve also held meetings to understand progress on plans for the A428 upgrade and OxfordCambridge rail link. Last but by no means least, I have pulled together a programme board to really move things forward with a new train station at Addenbrooke’s hospital. These projects are at various stages of progression, but I will keep my website updated every step of the way. 40
I’d like now to blow the trumpets for our local constabulary! They have recently launched an initiative to tackle parking issues across South Cambridgeshire. They have developed an online form for you to complete to report any parking issues in your area. I think it’s a tremendous community focused idea, so please do have a look here: http://tinyurl.com/SouthCambs-Parking I cannot believe it is almost a year since we tragically lost Jo Cox, my colleague at Westminster. On June 17th/18th this year, her legacy charity will be promoting “The Great Get Together”, a weekend long event which aims to bring us together to celebrate friendship and community. Some of the UK’s biggest organisations will be taking part including the Women’s Institute, Oxfam and the Royal British Legion. You can find more details here https://greatgettogether.org/ or on her charity website, www.jocoxfoundation.org. If you are interested in setting something up, please let me know so I can spread the word, join you, or help in some way. I’d love it if we could have a number of events taking place all over the constituency. If there is anything I can help you with more generally, please find details of my no appointment needed surgeries on my website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/residents-drop-surgeries. I’ll be in Cambourne on 22nd April, Bassingbourn on 20th May, Cottenham on 17th June and Melbourn on 1st July. I can also be contacted on (01954) 212707 or by emailing heidi.allen.mp@parliament.co.uk. Heidi Allen MP
Refuse Collections Collections in April will be on the following dates: Black bins: Tuesday 4th and Thursday 20th* Blue and Green bins: Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 26th* * late collection due to public holidays
MELDRETH PLANT HIRE TEL: 01763 262738 DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WHACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE. WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK 41
News from Susan van de Ven County Council Annual Budget Meeting I’ve given a full report on the outcome of the County Council’s annual budget meeting to Meldreth Parish Council. This is posted this on my website under ‘Meldreth Issues.’ In a nutshell, Cambridgeshire is one of a tiny number of upper tier authorities to have frozen its general council tax rise. This means that there will be further cuts to public services. Government permits a 1.99% rise, which allows councils to meet cost of inflation and to a very small extent, natural demographic changes. The Cambridgeshire decision went through with a majority of one vote; I didn’t support it. As I have been reporting, central government is switching off its ‘revenue support grant’ to local authorities, which has traditionally accounted for about half the council’s annual spending. Therefore we are left high and dry on many fronts. It sounds cliché to say so, but it is true and very distressing that the people who are most adversely affected are often those who are vulnerable in some way. As councillors we see this in our case work. A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign: Annual Ride The family friendly annual A10 Awareness Ride will take place 7 May, setting off from Trumpington Park and Ride at 10AM, heading to Phillimore Garden Centre Melbourn for refreshments. We’ll be riding the new path, via the farm bridge at Trumpington Meadows. This is always great fun, and will be a chance to learn about further work in the pipeline and ask questions about how the overall project is supported by the Department for Transport and City Deal – and why. No need to sign up – just come along. Once again the campaign has decided not to organize a ride from the Royston end of the A10 because there is no safe route – but we are working hard to achieve one. The campaign group meets next on 18th April, 7.00pm for 7.30-9.00pm, at Sartorius Stedim, opposite Royal Mail on the Royston Industrial Estate. All welcome. Lots more information at a10corridorcycle.com. Hope to see you at one of these two events, or both.
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Seeding the Verges of the New Cycle Path: 3rdApril, 1.30-3.30pm The new cycle path connecting Shepreth and Melbourn, and linking to the A10 path heading north, is about to be completed. Thanks to a generous grant from the TTP Group at Melbourn Science Park, and with guidance from the South Cambs Ecology Officer Rob Mungovan, we will be able to seed the verges of the new path with a specialist wildflower mix that will enhance biodiversity and look lovely. A working party has been organized for the school holidays: please come along if you can on 3rd April from 1.30-3.30pm. Meet outside the entrance to Phillimore Garden Centre, and please bring a rake if you can. Buses Stagecoach has been consulting on an hourly service for the 26 bus, which would terminate at Trumpington Park and Ride [see page 27]. This runs between Royston and Cambridge via Melbourn and Foxton, but not Meldreth, though from talking to people it’s clear that some people from Meldreth use this service. However, at the bottom of the consultation leaflet under ‘Pros and Cons’ Stagecoach states that if it ups the 26 to hourly, it would no longer run the 27 bus, which is the only connection from Meldreth to Cambridge by bus – this bus has very low ridership. The County Council has no statutory responsibility to subsidize bus services and in their current financial situation it is extremely unlikely that the 27 bus could be run on a subsidy. If the 27 goes, we don’t know when that will happen. Meanwhile, there is better news for the 128 bus, which against expectation will continue to run on council subsidy. The argument for this and other currently subsidized rural bus services was won in committee meetings, and cuts were made elsewhere instead. But the argument will need to be won again next year when finances are tighter. The council will be making sweeping cuts over the next two years as government revenue support grant falls away to zero. Meanwhile for now, the council will still be reviewing all these services, and an obvious point to make about the 128 is that it would be good to link its timetable for easy transfer to the 26. Trains: No Platform Extensions at Meldreth Network Rail has changed its mind on the need for platform extensions on the Cambridge-bound side at Meldreth. When eight-car trains come 43
in next year, they will use ‘selective door opening’ at Meldreth. The reason that platform extensions are unavoidable on the Cambridgebound platforms at Shepreth and Foxton is due to the level crossings situated adjacent to both stations – the tail of the train can’t be left drooping over the crossing. Meanwhile, thank you to everyone who has been helping to tidy up the station garden for spring. Foxton Crossing and Impact on the A10 Partly on the basis that the crossing is now at breaking point in terms of disruption to A10 traffic flow, but primarily for safety reasons, I could not support Network Rail’s proposal to close the pedestrian gate leading to Barrington Rd. The project would have involved a very significant financial investment that would have disincentivized Network Rail in tackling the overall level crossing problem. For the CEMEX application, I understand that the quarry restoration project is desired by Barrington and would protect against expansive development there. I have indicated that it seems far preferable to use rail over road for big projects like this, but that the crossing needs sorting out in order to enable this to run without placing further pressure on the A10. Drop-in surgery In April, my drop-in surgery at the Melbourn Hub will take place from 4.00-5.00pm, not 2.30-3.30pm as it usually does. Susan van de Ven Susanvandeven5@gmail.com 07905325574 www.susanvandeven.com
New Speed Limit Please be aware that there is a new speed limit of 40mph between North End, Meldreth and Meldreth Road, Shepreth between the 30mph signs at the entrances to both villages. Meldreth Parish Council 44
Little Hands Nursery School
A10 TIMBER CO.
The Moor, Melbourn
Little Hands is a Private Nursery School specialising in quality education for the under fives and offers:
For Timber & Sheet Material
Flexible hourly booking - open 08.30 to 16.30 Term time bookings with optional holiday club Bumble Bee room for children 12 – 24 months Ladybird room for 2 year olds Butterfly room for children 3-5 years With optional “ready for school sessions”
Graded Timber Mouldings & Flooring Decking & Fencing Insulation Cutting & delivery service All enquiries welcome.
All sessions have a high staff to child ratio and are available for eligible funded 2 year olds and all funded 3/4 year olds with no extra charges Categorised as “Outstanding” by Ofsted
For further information contact Anne McCrossen: 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk
PC Repairs Advice & Installation of Home Networks
www.a10timber.co.uk
Help with Selecting a computer
Barwick Ford Ware, Herts. SG11 1AL Tel: 01279 842016 0808 155 3631 sales@a10timber.co.uk
Fault Finding Brian Girling 01223 208529 (Wimpole) E-mail bg@moncraft.co.uk 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
Coton Electrical
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for all Domestic wiring
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Call David on 07749 850026 17 Flambards Close, Meldreth
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District Councillor’s Report Marley Eternit The case officer at SCDC tells me that the applicant has been reviewing the third party assessment of the viability case. Conversations are ongoing with Highways and education has been escalated at the County Council. Once these three key issues are worked through the case officer needs to make a balanced assessment which will lead to his being in a position to recommend the scheme or not. Litter Pick The annual litter pick took place on Saturday 4th March. Many of you will have seen the pile of rubbish at the Stocks which was the fruit of the cheerful band of volunteers who kindly gave their time. Many thanks to Graham Borgonon for organising it. We attempted to tackle Mettle Hill and the Kneesworth Road but large stretches proved too much for our capabilities: I will keep requesting that the Council sends a proper work team out to undertake this task. Planning Pre Applications From time to time I receive notification from the SCDC Planning Department about pre-applications for schemes over ten houses/larger schemes in my ward. It is my policy not to share this information on the grounds that the pre-application may never reach a full application. SCDC Magazine Coverage I have learnt that there are a number of households in Meldreth that have possibly never, or not for some time, received their copy of the South Cambs magazine. To my knowledge no household in North End has received it for some time and there may be other pockets where there is no coverage. The District Council contracts Royal Mail to carry out the deliveries as part of the mail delivery, so there is no obvious reason why copies of the magazine are not reaching residents. Please can residents let me know if you do not receive the magazine and I can then build a more accurate picture of where the gaps are. Bin Collection Many of the same residents who do not get their council magazine also did not receive the flyer about changes to bin collections. The roll out of the new collection took place on the last Tuesday in February; I received a couple of telephone queries beforehand, but otherwise have had to assume that residents made the adjustment successfully and that 46
their bins were duly collected. If anyone has experienced any problems, please can they let me know. For an up-to-date collection calendar go to the SCDC website, click on the bins icon and then put in your postcode. [Editor’s Note: bin collection days are included in Meldreth Matters each month.] Councillor Philippa Hart Meldreth and Shepreth Ward 01763 261255 or 07811 323571
Melbourn & District Photographic Club Our current season is now drawing to a close and will conclude with our AGM on 18th April. Our final meetings are listed below. 4th April
Projected Image of The Year Judge: Julie Hutson
11th April
Club Evening – And Now for Something Different
18th April
AGM
Meetings are held weekly at 7.30 - 9.30pm on Tuesdays at Foxton Village Hall from September to April. The Club has a diverse membership, a friendly and supportive atmosphere and welcomes new members, whatever their ability. Anyone wishing to know more details or see some of our work should visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com or e-mail the club Secretary, Peter North, at melbournphotoclub@hotmail.com Peter North 47
Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address The British Queen, 94 High Street, S/3056/16/FL & S/3057/16/LB
Detail
Parish Council Recommend
Extensions and alterations in conjunction with rearrangement of the external site area and provision of a garage building.
This was approved by the Parish Council on 1st December 2016. This application is a technical amendment to the original application therefore the Parish Council recommend 'Support' with no comments.
Scrapyard, Chiswick End, S/3529/16/OL
Erection of 5 dwellings with associated access and car parking.
Parish Council 'Object' with the following comments: The traffic survey is fundamentally flawed as it only measures traffic to the final three houses in Chiswick End and the survey should have been carried out at the entrance of Chiswick End as our concerns on the amount of traffic on the blind bends at the Whitecroft Road end have not been accounted for. Structure of the asbestos cement road is inadequate and if SCDC is minded to approve this development, the road will need to be upgraded to a standard that could be adopted by County Highways. There are no turning points along this road so vehicles have to either use residents driveways or reverse. If SCDC are minded to approve, then a turning head would need to be provided as part of the new development. It was also mentioned during the Parish Council meeting that there was a badgers’ set in the vicinity of the proposed development. There is also a possibility of an archaeological condition being imposed on the site. The large willow trees along the stream behind the proposed development may have TPOs. The Parish Council would also like to request that the application be referred to the District Council Planning Committee. 48
Reference and Detail Address 97a North End, Retrospectives S/3375/16/FL planning permission for an open fronted wood framed shelter Land Adj. to Conversion of existing 7 Brewery Lane, barn into 1 x 2 S/0008/17/FL bedroom unit and 1 x 4 bedroom unit. Land between Residential Burtons and development to West Way, provide affordable Off Whaddon housing comprising 4 Road, x 2 bedroom flats and S/2939/16/FL 1 x 2 bed detached bungalow. Access road, residents’ and visitors’ parking and open space. 4 Whitecroft First floor and loft Road, extension S/0219/17/FL
Parish Council Recommend Parish Council recommend 'Support' with conditions: that it cannot become a separate dwelling and remains ancillary to 97a North End. The Parish Council recommend 'Support' with no comments.
The Parish Council recommend 'No Recommendation' with comments: 'Is this going to be affordable housing as an exception site with Meldreth connections getting priority? Concern was also expressed about refuse lorries picking up refuse and backing out onto Whaddon Road. The Parish Council recommend 'No Recommendation' with comments: 'Design of the roof line does not fit in with the design of other dwellings in the road'.
Maycroft, 73 High Street, S/3476/16/DC
Crown reduction of No Comments. two Ash trees of 15%. This is the same work carried out in 2003.
10 North End, S/0434/17/TC
Crown reduction of No Comments. two Ash trees of 15%, this is the same work carried out in 2003.
Southfield Farm, Whaddon Road, S/0581/17/OL
Outline planning permission for replacement of annex with new separate dwelling with all matters reserved.
Parish Council recommended 'no recommendation' with comments: 'It appears from the elevations that it is larger with the addition of a double garage integral within the building but this does not correspond to the attached plans'.
The full minutes of Meldreth Parish Council planning meetings are available on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk. See overleaf for SCDC Decisions. 49
Planning Matters SCDC Decisions Reference and Address
Decision
Bury Lane Fruit Farm, Meldreth S/2655/16/FL
Permission has been granted for erection of glass houses and ancillary storage area.
Bury Lane Fruit Farm, Meldreth S/3387/16/FL
Fruit Farm – erection of staff accommodation building and car park. Has been Withdrawn.
Meldreth Parish Council Editor’s Note: Full details of all planning applications may be viewed at this website: http://plan.scambs.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/wphappcriteria.display
Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme
Now operating in Meldreth Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour? What are our Services? The wardens make regular visits and telephone calls to provide social contact and friendship. They help people to keep safe and healthy in their homes and carry out errands around the villages for their clients, including shopping, collecting prescriptions and paying bills. Wardens assist clients to access other support they may need such as domestic help, home maintenance , meals or benefits etc. What will it cost? We do have to make a small weekly charge for the services. The fee is only £6 per week (a little more for couples). How can I join? For more information please contact Jeannie on 07808 735066 or Jane on 07592 821976. Melbourn Warden Scheme is a registered charity 50
We can make life a little easier Local Community Services delivered from Moorlands Court Homecare: our fully trained carers visit you in your home. Sitting service: a visit from our experienced staff gives family carers time for themselves. Day Centre: based at Moorlands Court with a friendly and sociable atmosphere and includes a tasty 2 course lunch. Meals service: nutritious, hot lunchtime meal delivered to you. Housekeeping: we do those jobs which you can no longer manage, from cleaning and ironing, to bed changing and shopping. To find out more, call us at Moorlands Court on 01763 260564 or email: denise.taylor@chsgroup.org.uk
A garage for the village, run by people from the village MOTs|Servicing|Tyres|Repairs|Diagnostics|Exhausts|Clutches|Cambelts Cars|Light Commercials|Free Collection and Delivery
Book Today Tel: 01223 491005 Email: Info@b2bauto.co.uk Web: www.b2bauto.co.uk
*Unit 2 * Whitecroft Road * Meldreth * Herts * SG8 6NE * 51
Local Events in April Here is a selection of events happening nearby in April. To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Until 2nd July, normal museum opening times Victorian Life and Leisure – an exhibition Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB Learn how everyday life was transformed by the coming of the railway, greater consumer choice in the shops and – with more leisure time for some - the growth of sports, entertainment, music and the arts. Free. Sunday 2nd April (& 1st Sunday each month), 10.00am to 4.00pm Great Chishill Antiques and Vintage Fair Village Hall, Hall Lane, Great Chishill, Cambridgeshire SG8 8SH Antiques, collectables and vintage items. Entry £1 (under 18s free). Details from www.flapperfortunes.co.uk or call 07720 647696. Wednesdays, 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th April, 8.30am to 11.30am Great Shelford Country Market Memorial Hall, Woollards Lane, Great Shelford CB22 5LZ Local produce, baking, crafts and plants produced for sale by local people. More information from Jan Lupton on (01223) 843946 . Saturday 8th April, 8.30am Men’s Breakfast Meeting, Village Hall, Foxton CB22 6RN Anthony Orchard will be speaking about Solar Panel Installations in Domestic Dwellings. Contact Tony Garrick (01223) 510201 garrick.tony@gmail.com or Mark Howard (01223) 503377 markhoward@uwclub.net to reserve your place. Women and guests welcome. Sunday 9th April, 10.00am to 4.00pm Cambridge Gliding Centre Open Day Gransden Lodge Airfield, Comberton, Cambridgeshire SG19 3EB Find out about the sport of gliding. Free admission and free lessons in a realistic gliding simulator plus talks on the airfield’s wartime history. More details from: www.camgliding.uk or call (01767) 677077. Friday 14th – Monday 17th April, daily at 11.30am Ely Easter Guided Walks, Cambridgeshire CB7 4HF Learn about Ely’s fascinating history and buildings through this series of expertly guided walks – each has a different theme; all start from Oliver Cromwell’s House and last about an hour. Tickets £4 (must be booked in advance) from (01353) 662062 or www.visitcambridge.org. 52
Monday 17th April, 10.00am to 4.00pm French Market in the Stable Yard Hatfield House, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 5NQ French traders drive from Northern France in time for the opening. Huge selection of breads, cheeses, charcuterie, olives, spices, fruit – plus garlic and onions, of course! Free admission and parking. For more information: www.hatfield-house.co.uk or call (01707) 287000. Tuesday 18th – Sunday 23rd April, various times and locations Cambridge Literary Festival, Spring 2017 High profile contributors from the worlds of literature, media, science, history and politics. NB Popular events book up quickly. Download programme at www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com. Tickets from Box Office on (01223) 357851 or email: tickets@cambridgelivetrust.co.uk. Thursday 20th April, 9.30am to 11.30am Monthly Meander at Trumpington Meadows Nature Reserve Grantchester Road, Trumpington, Cambridgeshire CB2 9LJ Meander around the reserve, chat to your neighbours and the rangers and see what wildlife is around. Third Thursday each month. Free. Meet at Byron’s Pool car park off Grantchester Road, Trumpington. Tuesday 25th to Saturday 29th April, 10.00am to 5.00pm Cambridge Camera Club Annual Exhibition The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RP Over 200 prints, 200 digital images and 100 Young Photographers’ Competition prints: land and seascapes, natural history, portraits, street photography and creative compositions. Entry free. Friday 28th April, 8.00pm (doors open 7.15pm) Jazz in the Foyer – Juliet Kelly and Jennifer Carr Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH From Bond to Bowie – favourite songs from stage and screen in Saffron Walden’s stunning concert hall. Tickets £15 (under 18s half price). Box office: 0845 548 7650 or via www.saffronhall.com. Sunday 30th April, 7.00am to 5.00pm Cambridge 100/50/35 Mile Bike Ride Impington Village College, New Road, Cambridge, CB24 9LX Charity bike ride raiding funds for prostate cancer. For full details and rules of these and other rides, please visit www.bike-events.co.uk. Compiled by John Crawforth 53
Cambridgeshire Constabulary Village Parking Problems I am aware from the many emails South Cambs officers receive and from Neighbourhood Panel meetings that parking is a constant concern for many residents in villages across South Cambridgeshire. Many of you may know that I cannot prioritise parking patrols over investigating and preventing crime and responding to calls for service. In light of this, it means that my officers might not do as much parking enforcement as many of you would like. I have been giving some thought to how we can meet your expectations on parking enforcement and I have decided that we are going to try something new. I have therefore set up a web page where you can report concerns about parking. The information that you give us will go directly to me and will help us build a picture of the exact hotspots for parking issues. I will then use this information on targeted 'crackdown' days. There is some good evidence that crack-downs work in other areas of policing so we are going to try it for parking. For obvious reasons I will not be publicising the dates of the crackdowns in advance, but updates will be given by e-cops and on Twitter and Facebook once we have completed a crackdown day. The web page is now live and you can find it here: http://tinyurl.com/SouthCambs-Parking I am not pretending that this will solve all parking problems, however, I do think that it strikes the right balance between dealing with parking concerns and the other important work that we do. Recent Media Coverage about Policing in Villages Some of you may have seen recent media reporting regarding our policing of villages. I would like to emphasise that we do prioritise policing of the villages but what I ask is that my officers prioritise the ‘hottest’ areas within our villages. This does mean that certain areas in some villages get more attention than those villages with very low crime. I believe this is a sensible approach to policing which most of you would agree with. The main benefit of our local policing structure is that you have your own, dedicated local resources that are responsible for policing South Cambs rather than the city. 54
I have sought to put as much time and effort as possible over the last three years into crime prevention events in the villages; first Op Oaklands and more recently Op Hunter. Your local officers and I work hard to give you the best, most intelligent policing service we can but if you do have any concerns please do get in touch or come to our next round of neighbourhood panel meetings where you can join in the discussion. Chief Inspector James Sutherland Area Commander, South Cambs
Using Mobile Phones Whilst Driving The Law It is illegal to use a hand-held phone or similar device while driving or riding a motorcycle. The rules are the same if you’ve stopped at traffic lights or are queuing in traffic. It’s also illegal to use a hand-held phone or similar device when supervising a learner driver or rider. You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times: the police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you are distracted. You can only use your phone in a vehicle if you are safely parked or if you need to call 999 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop. Points Double Last month the penalty for driving whilst using a mobile phone doubled to six points and a £200 fine. For drivers with less than two years’ experience, that could mean a ban for one offence. Your case could also go to court and you could be disqualified from driving or riding and get a maximum fine of £1000. Drivers of buses or goods vehicles could get a maximum fine of £2500. Cambridgeshire Constabulary 55
Running for Home-Start I was very lucky to be given a ballot place to run in the London marathon on 23rd April 2017. After years of applying I couldn't believe it when the 'You're In' magazine dropped through my letter box. I had no hesitation in knowing that the charity I would choose to raise money for is Home-Start Royston & South Cambs (HSRSC). HSRSC is an amazing charity that provides vital support to local families in vulnerable and crisis situations. Carefully trained parent volunteers are matched with a family who they visit weekly, offering non-judgemental practical and emotional support. Volunteers understand how hard parenting can be and work alongside families in their own homes supporting parents to develop the skills, time and strength they need to nurture their children. As part of the HSRSC team I know that since becoming totally self-funding in October 2015, fundraising is at top of every agenda and something we work at constantly. I hope that by taking on this challenge I will able to help raise some vital funds to support this amazing charity to continue to providing its services to our local community. If you would like to sponsor me please visit my fundraising page: www.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/sarahmascall1.
Sarah Mascall
Did You Know? By signing up to easyfundraising.org.uk you can raise much needed funds for local groups and charities and it won’t cost you a penny extra. So far, over £16 million has been raised from over 1 million supporters, shopping at over 3,000 shops (including Amazon, Marks and Spencers and John Lewis) and donating to 97,000 good causes. Local groups you can choose to support include Home-Start, Meldreth Primary School PTA, Meldreth Preschool and the Friends of Holy Trinity. See easyfundraising.org.uk for further information. 56
HOME FOOTCARE
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Jane Cavanna (MCFHP MAFHP)
For all your chiropody needs in the comfort of your own home. Call today to book:
01777 816696 or 07769 347903
57
Cycling Group Good Companions Local History Group Lunch Club Melwood Cons. Group
John Rogger (01763) 260809 L. Pocknell—(01763) 261432 (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Nikki & Julie 07599 292327 (01763) 232855; www.melwood.btck.co.uk www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk
Revelation U3A WI
Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440 Chris Davison—(01763) 264189 Maureen Moody—(01763) 260938
Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club
Shirley Lambert (01223) 207888 Janet Pope (01763) 248342 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2
Rev. Lizzie Shipp Rev. Mary Price Bells John Price (Friends)
(01763) 220626; www.meldrethchurch.org.uk (01763) 261569 Peter Hinton—(01763) 262045 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk
Baby & Toddler Group Pre-School Primary School
Rosalind Wing - 07432 150721 07518 173653; www.meldrethPreschool.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk
Parish Council District Councillor District Council Offices
Please see details at end of Parish Council report Philippa Hart—(01763) 261255 03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/ Susan van de Ven—07905325574 susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/ 0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Heidi Allen—(01954) 212707; www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/
Councils & Govt.
Photographic Group
Sport
(01763) 262199 Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358 (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Sherida Richards—(01763) 262512 Paul Ray—(01763) 260304
Church
Community Access Point Litter Picker Neighbourhood Watch One Stop Village Hall Bookings Village Hall Chairman
Childn.
Clubs & Societies
Facilities
Village Directory
County Councillor County Council Offices MP
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Transport Health Support Services Emergencies NonEmerg. Misc.
Station Ticket Office
Opening hours: Mon - Fri 7-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.25pm
Rail User Group
(01763) 261833; www.melbourn.org.uk/railusergroup
Govia/Great Northern
www.thameslinkrailway.com
The Trainline Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc. Streetlights (faulty)
www.thetrainline.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge 0345 045 5212; http://www2.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ HighwaysReports/Highways/ReportProblem1.aspx 08007838 247 - give location, fault & SC or CCC no.
Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS
(01763) 260220; Dispensary—(01763) 261246 (01223) 245151 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)
Childline
Community Transport Home-Start Mind (mental health) Samaritans
0800 1111 (24 hours) Cambridge: 0344 848 7979 Royston: 03444 111 444 www.citizensadvice.org.uk (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org
General Emergency Gas Electricity Anglian Water Cambridge Water
999 or 112 0800 111 999 0800 783 8838 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk
Crimestoppers
S Cambs Fire & Rescue
0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org 101; www.cambs.police.uk Report issues: www.contactcambspolice.uk (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk
Melbourn Hub
(01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com
Royston Museum
(01763) 242587; www.roystonmuseum.org.uk
Citizens Advice Bureau
Police
Details of village groups and facilities can be found in the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk or on the PC website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk. Meldreth Matters Team: Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Distribution & Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Cover & Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Founder Member: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available online at free.yudu.com (search for Meldreth)
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Advertising Rates Size per issue Half page £27.25 Quarter page £16.50 Eighth page £8.75 Business listing per line
6 months £134.00 £74.00 £43.00 £11.00
12 months £216.00 £118.00 £65.00 £16.00
Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request. For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on (01763) 262176.
Index to Advertisers Meldreth Matters depends entirely on advertising revenue to cover its production costs. Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers. A10 Timber .....................................45 Affordable Plumbing ........................2 Art of Clean .....................................32 Art of Clean Wood ............................2 B2B Automotive ............................51 Bracey’s Accountants ......................29 Cambourne Self Storage .................32 Cambridge Roofers ........................45 Cambridge Sunblinds .................Cover CHS Day Centre ............................23 CHS Group .....................................51 Coton Electrical .............................45 The Country Store ...........................11 CP Podiatry .....................................32 Eternit Sports and Social Club .........57 Four Counties Tree Services ............14 Gilhooly ..........................................32 Handyman ......................................37 Home Foot Care .............................57 Keyholes Driving School ..................14 Lawn Partners .........................Cover The Letting Centre ..........................24 Little Hands Nursery School ..........45 Mandy Thornton Counselling ..........2
Melbourn Flooring .........................37 Melbourn Village College ................29 Meldreth Landscapes .........................7 Meldreth Plant Hire .........................41 Meridian Lawncare ...........................2 Michael Easton Personal Trainer ......7 Moncraft Computers .....................45 Nancy Foster Footcare ....................23 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service23 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .....14 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ................24 Quicksilver Yoga ............................29 Reed Autos .....................................57 Reflections Hair Studio ...................37 Richard Burns Electrician ..................2 Rod’s PC Support ............................11 Royston Fencing ..............................23 Shelford Energy ...............................29 Slimming World .........................Cover Spice Hut Indian Takeaway .............11 Summit Landscapes .........................24 Village Garden Services ...................11 Walkers Partnership Solicitors ...Cover
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Good Friday Craft Workshop and Easter Egg Hunt Holy Trinity Church, Meldreth Friday 14th April 2017 10.00 am - 12 midday Starting with a short act of worship and finishing with an Easter Egg Hunt. All children and parents welcome. Lots of paint and glue – please wear suitable clothing. Children under school age should be accompanied; school age children can be signed in and out if a contact telephone number of a responsible adult is left. For further information contact Karen (261885), Ruth (260183) or David (260085 or david@coton.me.uk) or just turn up on the day.
We look forward to seeing you Meldreth Matters is printed by Plumridge Printers 41 High St Linton 01223 891407