August 2017
summer! live happy thiswith Slimming World MELDRETH WEDNESDAY 5.30pm & 7.30pm
Meldreth Village Hall Hig h Street, Tel: Alison 07812 825 389 slimmingworld.co.uk
0344 897 8000
Meldreth Matters, August 2017 Contents include … John Fallon (1940-2017 John Gipson (1923-2017) Meldreth Events Welcome to Meldreth Station News from Heidi Allen Neighbourhood Watch Friends of Holy Trinity Meldreth Futures Working Party Gardening Local History Marley Eternit Planning Application County Councillor’s Report Maycroft Care Home WI Women’s Group Good Companions Elin Way Lunch Club Parish Council Preschool 1st Melbourn Guides What’s On for Families Primary School Local Events Planning Shepreth Wildlife Park Animal Matters Fire & Rescue Service Village Directory Index to Advertisers
Page 3 4-5 6 9 10-11 12-13 14 17 18-19 19 20-23 23-24 26-27 27 29 30 30 34-39 41 42-43 44 47-49 50-51 52-55 57 58-59 61 62-63 64
Welcome to the August issue of Meldreth Matters. Planning matters are covered in some detail this month, with the main news being that the SCDC Planning Committee has deferred a decision on the planning application to build 150 dwellings on the Marley Eternit site. See pages 35-36 for details. You may find it interesting to read our local councillors’ submissions to the Planning Committee which are on pages 20-23. Other planning matters are covered on pages 52-55. If you’d like to have your say on these planning issues, or anything else arising from this month’s magazine, please email us at the address below. Have a good month, Kathryn
Cover: A10 Bridge 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.
1
PC Repairs
Village Garden Services
Advice & Installation of Home Networks Help with Selecting a computer
Contact : Campbell Weir Mobile : 07798 924022 Home : 01223 207583 Email : campbell.weir@outlook.com
Fault Finding Brian Girling 01223 208529 (Wimpole) E-mail bg@moncraft.co.uk
Reliable and friendly service for all your general garden maintenance needs and much more ...… !
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
Richard Burns
Cambourne Self Storage
ELECTRICIAN
Outdoor Storage
For repairs, installation & advice please call
24 Hour Access 7 Days a Week 365 Days a Year
Tel: 01763 263 121 Mob: 07958 028 729 Email: sockets@tesco.net
24 Hour Remotely Monitored CCTV
Part P approved Certified installer
L
Sensor Flood Lighting Keypad Entry and High Security Locks, Vehicle Access Directly to Unit Doors
01767 676189
Compliant to BS7671 Based in Meldreth
www.CambourneSelfStorage.co.uk
Keyhole’s School of Driving The Key To Success
L
To discuss driving lessons or courses please call:
Kay 07816 361 733 or Grant 07807 862 126 www.keyholesdriving.co.uk
****Special Introductory Rates**** Please call for latest offers
Uifpsz!Uftu!Xfctjuf Worth £8.00 per month to all our pupils www.keyholes.theorytestpro.co.uk 2
John Fallon: 15th August 1940 - 20th June 2017 John was born in Dublin and spent his early life in Ballyea, County Clare. He came to England in 1959 and settled in Royston. He first worked at the Atlas asbestos factory, before becoming a conductor and then a driver on the 108 Cambridge – Royston bus. John and I met whilst he was working on the buses and we married on 7th January 1967. We started our married life living in Chiswick End, the first of five houses we lived in in Meldreth. Soon, we moved to West Way and Caroline and David were born. We later moved to Howard Road, then to Gables Close and, two years ago, to our bungalow in Elin Way. People will remember John around the village, nearly always accompanied by Poppy, our one-eyed rescue dog. John spent most of his working life as a companies until we both “retired” in 2005. ever though, having become grandparents to times when we were able to take her out and school.
lorry driver for various We were still as busy as Aoife, and John enjoyed about, before she started
John was taken ill at the beginning of November last year and was diagnosed with stomach cancer. He was determined that we should have our Golden Wedding Anniversary in January, after which he became more unwell and he passed away at home on the morning of 20th June. Caroline, David and I would like to thank all our friends and neighbours who have sent cards and messages and who attended the funeral on Tuesday 4th July. Joan Fallon
New to the village? Visit the “Meldreth Today” section of our website
www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Information on Meldreth’s footpaths, village facilities and almost 30 local groups is available 3
John Gipson: 25th August 1923 - 18th June 2017 A Service of Thanksgiving was held on Tuesday 25th July at Holy Trinity Church, Meldreth in John’s memory, he was 93. Tributes from John’s family and long time bell ringing friend Derek Sibson will appear in the September issue of the magazine but it seems appropriate to make brief reference in this issue to John’s life which revolved around the church. John was a Churchwarden at Holy Trinity Church for 34 years and sang in the choir until just a few years ago, sharing his knowledge and love of hymns. Equally, his knowledge of church procedures was considerable, particularly when it came to obtaining Faculties; church approval for repairs or improvements. However, bells were John’s indisputable passion and through his ingenuity and practical skills he increased the number of bells from five to eight over the years. It was fitting that after the restoration of the bells in 2015 and their rededication by the Bishop of Ely, Stephen Conway, John was presented with a symbolic bell rope (right). John, being a walking encyclopaedia on bells, confounded the Bishop by asking him which three cathedrals did not have bells! Apart from bells one only has to look around the church to see things John had a hand in: there are two splendid chandeliers he found in a coal bunker in Trumpington, the wooden pews came from a derelict church in Papworth, while he turned the old candle holders, that were 4
attached to the pews before electric lighting, upside down and had them wired up to hang light bulbs from each of the three prongs. Not visible but equally ingenious, John made and installed an automatic electric clock winding system. It can be heard quietly whirring sometimes when it is quiet in the church. The organ originally had three barrels, of which two survive, and John would proudly persuade visitors to look in the back of the organ as he wound the handle to play one of a number of hymn tunes. In his many ways John was a true servant of the church and the community alongside his wife Joan and they will be greatly missed. John Price
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 ÂŁ6 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 5
August Events in Meldreth Saturday 12th August, 10.30am - 1.00pm Opening of the Newly Refurbished Meldreth Tennis Courts Free tennis and fun for all the family Official Opening of the courts at 11.00am See back page for full details Sunday 20th August, 10.30am Sponsored Walk for Alzheimer’s Research UK starting from Maycroft Care Home, High Street See pages 26-27 for further information Sunday 20th August, 3.00-5.00pm Cream Teas Holy Trinity Church We shall be serving scones with jam and clotted cream accompanied by tea or coffee. Please join us if you can in the Meeting Room at Holy Trinity church Meldreth.
Elin Way ‘Community Coffee Break’ There will be no Coffee Break morning in August. We will resume this event on Saturday 2nd September commencing at 10.30 until 12 noon. There will also be a display of items produced by Meldreth Gardening Club. Please come along – enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee or tea (biscuits provided) and see the exhibition. There will also be our usual ‘Bring and Buy’ cake stall. Marion Long (01763) 261365 6
AT HOME FOOT CARE
Now treating paddocks & large areas
EMILY MEYERS MAFHP MCFHP DBS CHECKED
NAIL CUTTING, CORNS, CALLUS, FUNGAL NAIL, INGROWN TOENAILS & VERRUCA TREATMENTS
BESPOKE LAWNCARE SERVICES SINCE 2005 Independent and family run, we put the care into lawncare
07557 131991
BAREFEET.CAMBRIDGE@GMAIL.COM
01763 244955 lawnpartners.co.uk
MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
COUNSELLING, THERAPY & SUPPORT IN THE WORKPLACE With Mandy Thornton Private sessions for help with depression, stress, relational problems, anxiety, lack of confidence, bereavement, etc.
~
Workplace support sessions for companies wishing to support their staff in stressful job situations
01763 208516 mandythornton.com
7
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 mornings of 9th and 23rd SEPTEMBER, 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
Handyman • • • • • • • • • •
Your local lawncare company, offering: • Lawn moss killing • Scarification • Aeration • Complete weed and disease control • Bespoke feed programme • Reseeding • Hard surface moss & weed control
Please contact us for a free Lawncare Analysis
Tel: 01763 242909
Carpentry Painting Concrete Work Slabbing Fencing Gardening Building Flat Pack Blockwork Pointing General Handyman Duties
07845 804289 07530 171263
meridian.lawncare@btconnect.com
joecowan0107@hotmail.co.uk 8
Welcome to Meldreth Station The Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Rail User Group was delighted to learn at its most recent meeting that a new full-time member of staff is taking over the reins at Meldreth Station booking office. We would like to thank Andrea, who has been working part-time to keep the service going since the retirement of our beloved station master David Piggott, and took Meldreth Station to heart. Our new station master Bernie Pearsons is local to the area – living in Royston with a sister in Meldreth. Bearing in mind that David lived in Melbourn with a sister in Royston, this bodes very well for the future. Welcome Bernie! We had specifically asked Govia Thameslink to recruit from the local area, and are very pleased that they did. We hope now that we have a full-time member of staff, there will be no further random closures of the booking office. In addition, we were pleased to learn that Meldreth Station will have staff on the platform every night time to despatch trains. This is because drivers don’t have full view of the platforms via cameras as they do at most stations. Finally, many thanks to all of our station gardeners for the beautiful flower displays on both platforms. We’re lucky to have another Duke of Edinburgh volunteer, MVC’s Alex from Whaddon, watering the pots twice a week. Keeping the garden in order takes year-round dedication and makes a big difference to the feel of the station. We’re also lucky to have a dedicated group of local residents who attend meetings and keep the rail industry on their toes with questions and challenges. Susan van de Ven Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Rail User Group
Refuse Collections Collections in August will be on the following dates: Black bins: 8th & 22nd August Blue and Green bins: 1st, 15th & 30th* August * day late due to public holiday 9
News From Heidi Allen www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk It’s been two months since my last newsletter and in that time I’m honoured and so pleased to have been voted to remain as your Member of Parliament. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. With the election over, I was delighted to get back to work with a visit to meet the pupils and Principal, Chris Tooley, of Netherhall School in Queen Edith’s Way. The school has worked exceptionally hard to gain its recent ‘good’ rating by a local authority evaluation and during my visit I could see how passionate the pupils and teachers were about their school and their journey towards excellence. I don’t think I have ever been so impressed by the standard of art work adorning the walls in a school; truly worthy of being in a gallery. The visit concluded with a “Question Time” style session with a group of very politically engaged and bright students. Just as I thought hustings season was over, these were tough questions! All schools are welcome to come for a tour of Parliament, so I hope these young people and hundreds more from across South Cambs will come down. You can find more information here www.parliament.uk/ education/visit-parliament-with-your-school/. In a swift move from secondary education to primary, I have also recently had the pleasure of setting off the Caldecote Primary School Fun Run, on what turned out to be one of the hottest days of the year! I was more than a little relieved to be given ‘opening’ rather than ‘running’ duties and was full of admiration for those who managed to complete the course, raising vital funds in the process. How the parents and teachers completed a 3k, never mind a 10K or the half marathon in that heat is staggering! Thank you to Karen Stanton, the Head Teacher, for inviting me and not making me run! The Fun Run raised over £1,400 which will be used to buy some much needed education sports resources for the school. I’m getting closer to my target of having visited every school in the constituency; if I haven’t reached yours yet, please contact my office to 10
check that a visit is on the cards. I love meeting our young learners and gain a great deal from speaking to the professionals involved in their care and education. The visits always strengthen my resolve to secure fair funding for our schools. I deliberately try to keep these newsletters apolitical, but please let me say, that particular battle is not yet over. As we look into the months and years ahead, many of my priorities will remain the same. I intend to continue leading on key infrastructure projects for our constituency, including the Foxton Level Crossing, A505 upgrade (M11 to A11), A428 improvements, Oxford to Cambridge rail and a train station at Addenbrooke’s. I want to work closely with local communities and our new Mayor to see what improvements might be possible to improve local transport, focusing not just on new areas of development such as Cambourne, but also connecting our rural and often isolated villages. I’ll work in partnership with councils and housing associations to deliver more affordable housing for local people and families as we need this urgently. We have to be smart about identifying little scraps of land where we can build an affordable home or two, because every home matters for those who are currently priced out of the market. But we also have a new challenge, and that is to ensure the needs of South Cambs are listened to by those at the Brexit negotiating table. We are a very important part of UK science, innovation, academia and agriculture so have a valuable role to play in ensuring Brexit is a success for all. We draw upon so many European and international talents in our constituency and need this recognised in the ultimate settlement. Looking ahead to the summer, I will be visiting local fêtes and fundraising events, so if you see me struggling to choose a tombola ticket, please come and say hi! Finally, I’m in the process of planning my surgery dates and venues for the rest of the year. I will be at Queen Emma Primary School in Cambridge on 2nd September and the Hub in Melbourn on 21st October. Full details are on my website, under the surgery tab. Further information and news stories can always be found on website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk and you can email me heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk. As always, you can also telephone Westminster Office on 020 7219 5091 about national issues or constituency office on (01954) 212707 to raise local concerns.
my on my my
Heidi Allen, MP 11
Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch Revealed: the six language tricks financial fraudsters use to take advantage of trusting Brits Research released by Take Five – the national campaign against financial fraud backed by all major banks and key financial services providers in the UK – reveals the techniques or ‘patterns of trust’ financial fraudsters commonly use to scam members of the public into handing over financial or personal information over the telephone. Recently published figures showed that the UK lost £2 million each day in 2016 to financial fraud. In the research, six ‘patterns of trust’ emerged from an analysis of real-life evidence drawn from recordings and transcripts of scam phone calls. Fraudsters will: 1.
2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
Use snippets of information about you, gathered together from different sources, to sound as if they know what they’re talking about. Create a false balance of power by using apologetic language for taking up your time to make you feel sympathetic towards them. Remain patient as they continue to build up layers of seeming authenticity until you’re convinced they’re legitimate. Assume the identity of someone in authority such as a fraud detection manager or a police officer investigating an ongoing crime. Welcome your scepticism and turn it into a weakness by acknowledging your concerns about being security conscious. Switch tempo and increase or decrease the pressure by creating a false sense of urgency or using understanding language.
Other research has asked people to rank factors that make us more likely to trust a stranger over the phone. The top factors correspond to the six tricks used by fraudsters in the "patterns of trust" approach: ⇒
46% of people said "sounding like a nice person"
⇒
42% of people said "sounding like they know what they’re talking about"
⇒
30% of people said "offering to help with a problem"
12
To avoid becoming a victim of financial fraud, remember the simple advice from Take Five: ⇒
Never disclose security details, such as your PIN or full banking password
⇒
Don’t assume an email, text or phone call is authentic
⇒
Don’t be rushed – a genuine organisation won’t mind waiting
⇒
Listen to your instincts – you know if something doesn’t feel right
⇒
Stay in control – don’t panic and make a decision you’ll regret.
For more information stopfraud.org.uk/.
on
Take
Five,
go
to
https://takefive-
Don't forget the trusted contacts in Meldreth who you can talk to about a possible scam: 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. The Cambridge Police website for reporting a variety of issues is: www.contactcambspolice.uk. For more information on Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Graham Borgonon on 01763 260358. Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch
MELDRETH PLANT HIRE TEL: 01763 262738 DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WHACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE. WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK 13
Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk Next Event: Sunday 3rd September 13th Annual Churchyard Car show
Planning has started with some interesting exhibits new to the event including a 1910 Buick and many others. Open from 2.00pm to 5.00pm Entrance ÂŁ5.00, children 50p Bell ringing opportunity A small selection of prams in the church Including this 1934 Marmet Glyda (pictured right) Teas Exhibitor enquiries 07770 758373
to
John
Price:
Forthcoming Events: 27th October - Cambridge University Past and Present An illustrated talk by Dr Brian Cox, Praelector at Wolfson College 24th November - Flanders and Swan Revisited A reminder of their comic songs by Peter Chapman and Mike O’Neill January 2018 - Annual Supper Date to be confirmed John Price 14
Church Matters Lead Roof - two defendants appeared in Peterborough Magistrates Court on 7 June charged with 18 and 9 Counts respectively of Theft and Criminal Damage, both pleading “not guilty” and their cases were passed to Peterborough Crown Court. The defendants appeared on 5 July pleading “not guilty” again and their trial has been set for 15 January 2018. John Price
Joint Parish Prayer Group There will be no meeting in August. We will meet again on Tuesday 19th September at 8.00pm at 85 North End, Meldreth. Please join us if you feel the need for meditation and prayer. Please contact me for further information. Marion Long (01763) 261365
Reflections Hair Studio Specialist in all Aspects of Unisex Hairdressing. Cutting * Colouring Techniques * Hair Extensions
Personal care for your feet in the comfort of your own home • Nail Trimming • Hard Skin & Cracked Heels • Corns & Verrucas • Fungal Nails
We have a wide range of home hair care retail. Gift vouchers and hair accessories available.
01763 260431
45 Whitecroft Road , Meldreth Tuesday & Thursday 9am - Late Monday &Wednesday closed Friday 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 3pm
Telephone
on 01763 261250 or 0791 3913955
Nancy Foster MCFHP MAFHP Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals
15
Home heating oil • Prompt delivery service
• Competitive prices
• All aspects of tree work undertaken • Ground & Garden Maintenance. • Garden & Site Clearance. • Fencing. Turf Laying & More.
01223 846846 www.shelfordenergy.co.uk
A Clean Reliable & friendly Service. Qualified & Insured. Free Quotations. Mob 07708 326637 Freephone 0800 1939060 fourcountiestreeservices@gmail.com www.fourcountiestreeservices.co.uk
CP
Podiatry Offering professional footcare in the comfort of your own home.
Claire Duguid MSc BSc (Hons) MChS HCPC registered podiatrist *Routine footcare, including nail cutting and removal of hard skin and corns. *Diabetic footcare, including assessment, treatment and advice. *Prescription of insoles to offer pain relief. *Footwear advice.
Call today to make an appointment
01763 661841 or 07810805433 claireduguid@hotmail.com
16
Meldreth Futures Working Group The Meldreth Futures Working Group had another meeting on 28th June. It was well attended by residents who have volunteered to help research and help the Parish Council identify groups or projects that need funding. Some of the ideas have included designing a village map from scratch showing all roads, footpaths and amenities. Another proposal is for the provision of more cycle racks in the village. They are in the preapplication stage and will be sent on to the Parish Council for discussion. The Parish Council have agreed to provide ÂŁ390 from Solar Funding for the provision of kitchenware for the newly refurbished pavilion. Please send in any ideas you may have to the Parish Clerk who will provide you with an application form. Email parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk. The Meldreth Futures website will be launched in the Autumn. Joan Gane on behalf of Meldreth Futures
Did You Know? You can give free donations to Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire when you shop online https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/hsrsc
17
Notes from a Small Garden Jim and I had a good chat about this column on our way to the Good Companions outing to Southend in July. A real opportunity to pick his brains! With the wonderful heat wave in June and fine dry weather at the beginning of July, many of the perennials are nearly a month ahead. The phloxes have been out in Julie's garden for nearly a month at the time of writing, and the dahlias too are several weeks ahead of their usual flowering date. Jim agreed his garden was drying out and even the summer fruiting raspberries are dying off. Perhaps more disappointing have been his apricots, most of which have "dropped" despite there being wonderful spring blossom. The stream in Chiswick End is completely dried up and the bottom silt "cracked" which I don't remember seeing in all the 38 years we have lived in the lane. So how to help our gardens survive a summer drought? Preventive measures are essential. Good mulching and watering in new plants and trees throughout the spring are a must. Don't dig or disturb the soil unnecessarily and when you do water give plants a proper soak. Jim and I only water pots, the veg, the greenhouse and new plants when water is short. We both have a water butt each and Jane, Jim's wife collects the water from the hot tap before it runs hot into bottles for watering! I haven't resorted to catching the water from the bath yet, but I can clearly remember my mother doing that. Jobs for August: ⇒
Ask a neighbour to do the watering when you are away. Put pots in the shade.
⇒
Collect seeds from perennials and cuttings from geraniums, carnations, fuschias and roses. Jim says take a rose stem and remove the flower and plant in the shade, and forget about it until next year!
⇒
Prune summer flowering shrubs
⇒
Deadhead regularly
⇒
Keep mildew under control; watering the plant will help
⇒
Trim yew and box hedges 18
Veg plus Club will have a display at the Community Room in Elin Way during the coffee morning on 2nd September. Put the date in your diary and please come and support us. Good gardening. Jim and Julie juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk
Meldreth Local History Group: 10th Anniversary
On the evening of Friday 7th July we held a small exhibition (pictured) detailing our events and activities since we formed in 2007. We were disappointed with the poor response from the village with only 15 visitors in addition to our regular members. However, we are proud of what we have achieved over the last ten years. Keep supporting us and if you love history come and join us. It is great fun. Joan Gane Chairman 19
Marley - Planning Application for 150 Houses on the Eternit Factory Site SCDC Planning Committee considered this application on Wednesday 5th July. Meldreth was represented by Richard Goddin, Chair of the Parish Council, Philip Kratz on behalf of the Marley Eternit Working Group and Susan van de Ven, County Councillor, who also read out Councillor Hart’s address to the committee as Councillor Hart was unable to attend owing to family illness. Despite the Planning Officer’s recommendation to pass the application the committee deferred their decision pending further independent highways reports and information concerning site contamination. This is a good result as there were indications that the committee was minded to refuse, but they need further information to be sure that their reasons for doing so can be strong ones. Below are the addresses from our local councillors that were presented to the committee. Councillor Hart’s address (read out by Councillor Van de Ven): My name is Philippa Hart, and I am the District Councillor for the Meldreth Ward. I should declare an interest which is that our family business, Roger Hart Farms, farms as tenants land belonging to Marley adjacent to the application site and that I live with my family within half a mile of the site. As the Chairman of Meldreth Parish Council has already explained, when Meldreth residents were asked via public consultation for their views on this proposal, 80% of the respondents were against it going ahead. I am here today on behalf of my residents; notwithstanding that I have a great deal of respect and admiration for the case officer recommending this scheme, I cannot support it. Were it not for the fact that South Cambs cannot currently provide a five year housing land supply, an application in this location on this site for this proposed use would never be given the light of day. My residents know this and feel angry about it; they know that there will be more competition to get an appointment at local GP surgeries, they know they will queue for longer at road junctions and they know that their High Street will be more congested. Such is its distance of the application site from the centre of the village there will two separate communities not one.
20
When Marley took on the site at Meldreth with its history of manufacturing amongst other things asbestos, they took on the commercial liability of its inevitable eventual decontamination. What we now see is the costs of cleaning up the site being indirectly passed to the local community in our being required upon "viability" grounds to accept a reduced allocation of affordable homes. The planning system should not be capable of being manipulated in this way. When we talk about the need for affordable homes, we are not only talking about local families hoping that their children can stay local to them, we are talking about providing the housing so that the people staffing our schools and care homes do not have to travel long distances to work. This is how a planning process, properly applied, can create the glue that sticks our communities together. There is simply not enough glue in this proposal. Marley also took on the responsibility for maintaining an employment site. I recognise that part of their offer is to construct a commercial building providing a new technology and perhaps 25 new jobs. I invite committee members to enquire whether this offer can actually be conditioned. Had Marley chosen, rather than residential development, to develop the proposed site for a use consistent with creating employment (beyond a construction phase) then the extent of the decontamination operation would have been commensurately less and therefore less costly. My residents are not against Marley. In fact, what they tell me is, that in view of the other speculative developments they know to be coming forward in Meldreth and Melbourn, if planning permission is given for this site, it will be the thin end of the wedge, leading to further unplanned development in this no man’s land, and the establishment of a large settlement way outside our village framework. For these reasons I urge you to turn this application down.
Councillor van de Ven’s address: The required sustainable nature of the proposed development places considerable stock on community transport as a core service for getting to and from the village of Meldreth. The aspiration is understandable, given the distant and remote nature of the site. Unfortunately,
this
is
based 21
on
continued ...
misunderstandings and inaccuracies, as follows: Community Transport is not regular public transport and is not designed to fill the gap when bus services disappear. Rather, it provides exceptional lifeline transport for people who have no other way of getting around. It depends on falling council subsidies and volunteer drivers who come and go. Beyond this year, there is no guarantee of continuation of council subsidies upon which community transport providers depend to cover their expenses. The scale of cuts which the County Council will be forced to make means that the future of non-statutory services like community transport is in serious doubt. Nor is there any guarantee of subsidy for the last remaining bus connecting Meldreth to Royston (the annual subsidy for the 127/128 service is £62,490.01) – also a non-statutory service. There is no commercial bus service to act as a back-up when the subsidised service disappears: the last remaining commercial bus service connecting Meldreth to Royston and Cambridge (the 27) is being withdrawn by Stagecoach at the end of this month. The notion of £27K for real time information for the remaining subsidised bus that comes once per day and is set to lose its operating subsidy, shows a lack of understanding of reality. The same could be said for the notion of improving bus stops. The subsidised bus does not even pass by the proposed site, which is understandable as it is far away from where people live. The report indicates that community transport provision for this new remote community will be an extension of the ‘Melbourn scheme’ involving a new vehicle operated by ‘the Parish Council’. I’ve checked with Melbourn Parish Council who are not aware of such a scheme, nor their role in running a vehicle. It would appear that the applicant is making erroneous assumptions about an S106 contribution designed for a six-month transition period for the 199 new homes off New Road, Melbourn. (That site sits in a completely separate geography.) That contribution is funding for the parish of Melbourn. If Melbourn Parish Council were to decide to extend the six-month scheme, it would have to precept its residents for the additional funding required – but could not legally operate that service for the benefit of another parish. Royston and District Community Transport is the only Community
22
Transport provider in this area. When I spoke to them last week, they were not aware of the Meldreth Road planning application before you today. The applicant has portrayed a localised transport system that does not exist, but which is integral to the sustainability of the proposed settlement.
Councillor Philippa Hart Meldreth and Shepreth Ward 01763 261255 or 07811 323571 philippajhart@brinternet.com
Susan van de Ven County Councillor 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com
County Councillor’s Report The following report was presented to the Parish Council Meeting on Thursday 6th July 2017. Level Crossing Closure In the next round of consideration under the Secretary of State, following Network Rail’s recommended level crossing closure programme, the County Council has concurred with the view locally that the closure order for the Chiswick End/Fieldgate crossing is unacceptable, as the proposed alternative route over Meldreth Station bridge would put pedestrians at much greater risk. We now await further communication about taking part in the public inquiry. Bus Users’ Meeting Our new bus users’ group, covering villages served by the departing 27 bus, was due to meet on 17th July in Bassingbourn. In addition to an update on our 128 operator, following the retendering of the contract, we’ll be fine-tuning arrangements for a shuttle link to Meldreth Station for sixth formers. Children’s Centres To save £1 million, the County Council is planning to ‘redesignate’ children’s centres throughout the county – effectively downgrading and 23
amalgamating with children and family health services. A consultation runs from 17th July to 22nd September. There are severe implications for Melbourn and Bassingbourn Children’s Centres. This £1 million saving was unnecessary but is a result of the Conservative and UKIP imposed council tax freeze. Cambridgeshire was the only shire county in England not to take the standard 1.99% rise, which adds an extra £5 million to the vast public service cuts we must make this year, mainly arising from loss of government revenue support grant, coupled with the aging population and rising cost of health and social care – totalling £31 million. Drainage Walk I’ve asked the officers for a September date, a bit later than intended, to keep up our annual stock-take tour. Train Timetable Consultation The Thameslink timetable consultation was due to run until 27th July. We’ve known for some time that Foxton, Shepreth and Meldreth will be getting twice-hourly trains throughout the day, and that rather than terminating at King’s Cross they will run through to St. Pancras and on to Gatwick. Commuters have raised concerns about longer journey times on some services. Susan van de Ven County Councillor 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com
County Councillor’s Drop-in Advice Surgeries There will be no surgeries in August. They will resume in September: first Monday of every month from 3.00-4.00pm at Melbourn Hub; third Monday of every month from 3.00-4.00pm at The Limes Community Centre in Bassingbourn. Alternatively, please contact me if you’d like to meet at another time or closer to home. Susan van de Ven County Councillor 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com 24
Nigel Wigg Home Improvement Specialist • Exterior and interior home decorating
• Tiling • Carpentry • Refurbishment • Timber carport and veranda
fkaf^k=q^hb^t^v=
=P=qÜÉ=läÇ=pí~íáçå=eçìëÉ= pí~íáçå=^ééêç~ÅÜ= eáÖÜ=píêÉÉí= jÉäÇêÉíÜ=EkêK=jÉäÄçìêåF= `~ãÄêáÇÖÉ=pdU=Sgo
design and construction
• General home repairs • Pruning / hedge and tree trimming • Professional service
léÉåáåÖ=Üçìêë=
pÉîÉå=a~óë=~=tÉÉâ=RKMMéã=J=NMKPMéã= áåÅäìÇáåÖ=_~åâ=eçäáÇ~óë=
tÉ=~äëç=Å~íÉê=Ñçê=é~êíáÉë
qbiW=MNTSP=OSOQOR= qbiLc^uW=MNTSP=OSOSPS
nigelwigg@gmail.com T 01480 700266 M 07801 057514
iPLASTER
ROYSTON FENCING
SKIMMING / PATCHING CEILING REPAIR WATER DAMAGE REPAIR ARTEX COVERED
TEL 01763 261150 FENCING, GATES INCLUDING ELECTRIC MADE TO ORDER
01763 260 526 07837 645173
Email - iplaster@outlook.com CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTE IAN NORTH END MELDRETH
ALL TYPES OF FENCING AND GATES SHEDS AND GARDEN FURNITURE
Quicksilver Yoga
DECKING, PATIOS & PERGOLAS
Stretch, strengthen, energise and relax. Suitable for all abilities.
SLEEPERS, PAVING & NATURAL STONE
New classes starting Thursday evenings at Gymbos Personal Training Studio, Meldreth. 7pm - 8pm and 8pm - 9pm
WWW.ROYSTONFENCING.CO.UK
Small class size. Book your space now. For more information contact Quicksilver1yoga@gmail.com Or phone: 07874719155
KNEESWORTH RD. MELDRETH ROYSTON
25
Maycroft Care Home It seems strange writing for the August magazine about events that took place in the Home in the second half of June but I really must mention the Annual Fete. What a wonderful day we had. The sun shone brightly, the sky was clear blue and cloudless and it was so warm; too hot for a few folk. All those involved in setting up stalls arrived between 8.30 and 9.00am. As we had so much to display, we had to start even earlier. Our stall was in the shady part of the courtyard garden as we needed so much space to accommodate all the items kindly donated by friends and relatives and local folk throughout the year. Apart from loads of CDs, DVDs, books, puzzles, children's toys and bric-a-brac we had a new enterprise. This was paintings and studio pottery. Altogether we sold five paintings and a donated print by a local artist, number 2 out of 30, which raised £32. A painting by a Meldreth artist will be sold shortly as we have buyers for it. We'll report on that next month. Unfortunately, very little pottery was sold this time. With the raffle, tombola, plants, children's games, cakes and preserves and refreshments, we took £750 which was £200 more than has ever been raised before. This will primarily be spent on trips out for the residents who enjoy travelling to local places of interest and to see the countryside during different seasons of the year. We are so grateful to everyone who came along, many for the first time. Hopefully the new building will be up and running by the time we hold next year’s Fete, and by the time you read this in August, all the foundations should be in place. Otherwise all the usual activities have continued, including the usual entertainers coming to the Home. Juke Box Legends continued with its usual entertaining mixture of singing, dancing and fun. When Sing along Jim came on 21st we had the best time ever singing songs from the 50's, 60's and 70's. We had the usual quiz, naming the song, group or singer. We scored 96 points. Last month our highest score was 95 and we were the highest scoring group of all the homes Jim visits. Sunday 20th August, Fundraising Walk for Alzheimer's Research A reminder of the details of this walk, which I gave last month. Starting from Maycroft the walkers and wheelchair pushers walk along High Street past the shop and go down Flambards Close. The 26
wheelchair pushers can watch the walkers go over the Bridge and follow the path to the left through Melwood to Topcliffe Mill. The wheelchair users will then reverse and go back towards Maycroft. There they can choose with their pushers one of three options: 1. To go back into the home 2. To wait at the Stocks to cheer the walkers back. 3. To walk up to the Church and welcome the walkers there. All participants can then return to the Home and have their sponsor forms validated and share in the light refreshments, freshly prepared in the Home kitchens. In all we believe this should not take longer than an hour and a half and give pleasure to the participants. Ultimately it will help all those who suffer from one of the many types of dementia now and in the future, by raising money to fund the research that is always on going. Please give some thought as to how you can help this new venture in some way. Rosemary and Ray and the many new friends of Maycroft
Meldreth WI It was a change of venue for our July meeting when we all descended on The Green Man at Shepreth for an evening meal. A very enjoyable evening it was too: good food and very good company ‌ followed by a diet the next day! At our August meeting Fran Saltmarsh will tell us about Georgian society and the costumes the ladies of that era wore. I wonder what they would say on seeing some of the present day fashions!! Once again at our autumn meeting on 14th September, apart from our very entertaining speaker Geoff Evans, we will be holding a produce auction. This was very popular last year with all sorts of mostly food goodies going under the auctioneer’s hammer (not literally). Once again husbands, brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces are all very welcome. Do come along - there is bound to be something that tickles the taste buds! Kathleen Thompson 27
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS FOR
PLANNING & BUILDING REGULATION APPLICATIONS FOR
EXTENSIONS ALTERATIONS LOFT CONVERSIONS CONTACT US now to arrange a FREE on-site meeting at your convenience to discuss your project
01353 649649 mail@elydesigngroup.co.uk www.elydesigngroup.co.uk
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.
The Letting Centre, 24b Orchard Road, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 6HH Tel. 01763 263039
Fax 01763 263458 email enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk
28
Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group Our June meeting was held in Meldreth and we were fortunate to have Patrick and Annie from The Laughter Specialists talk to us. It may have been a wet and depressing night but they certainly brightened things up for us. They primarily go into hospitals and special schools and their aim is to bring lightness, laughter and fun to those they visit. Judging by the howls of laughter from our members, they must be very successful. We were treated to music, songs, magic and fun and what especially shone through was Patrick’s and Annie’s belief in what they were doing! Also the strength of their working relationship and their ability to bounce fast responses and actions off one another often at their own expense was very funny. Both were professional entertainers and set up “The Laughter Specialists” about ten years ago. They receive funding from various sources, among them BBC’s Children in Need and what was formerly The Evelyn Trust and is now ACT (Addenbrookes Charitable Trust). Their visits are part of a wider programme and are made regularly (funding permitting) and they feel privileged to see some of the young patients they visit progressing over many months. Sue Toule gave a vote of thanks for a really good evening and presented a cheque as a donation to the charity. If you would like to know more about “The Laughter Specialists” see www.thelaughterspecialists.co.uk or contact them by email at fun@thelaughterspecialists.co.uk or by post, 17 Crawley Hobbs Close, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4GD. In August we hope to go out for a meal. For further information on the meal or if you would like to know more about the group, please contact Anne Harrison on (01763) 261775, Sue Toule on (01763) 260955, Angela Leach on (01763) 262793 or Pat Smith on (01763) 262575. Pat Smith
29
Good Companions Our July meeting on 10th was a very pleasant outing to Southend. The day was warm and sunny. Our first stop on arrival was for refreshments overlooking the beach then onto the famous pier, travelling over a mile into the Thames Estuary by train. After a light meal we travelled back by train along with numerous excited schoolchildren. Thank you Martin for being so helpful. Our next meeting will be a Garden Party at Marion Oakman’s house, 13 Howard Road starting at 2.00pm on 3rd August. Laraine Pocknell, Secretary (01763) 261432
Elin Way Lunch Club Menu Friday 25th August: £8.00 Chicken breast wrapped in bacon & cheese Lemon cheesecake Friday 20th October: £8.00 Home made steak, mushroom and onion pies Apple crumble Friday 1st December: £12.50 Christmas dinner turkey Trifle or Christmas pudding Lunch will be served at 1.00pm on the above dates and will finish at around 3.00 to 3.30pm. The Club is open to the over 50s. Lunch must be booked in advance by calling Eileen Allan, Estate Officer on 07712 411976. If you book to have a meal and then are unable to attend, we would appreciate it if you could still pay for your meal as the food will have been ordered and paid for. Thank you. For further information, please contact Eileen Allan, Estate Officer on 07712411976 or email eileen.allan@scambs.gov.uk. Eileen Allan Sheltered Housing Estate Officer 30
General Building Works, Home & Garden Improvements Tel: Mike on 07950 211 878 Or
email: benjaminandfredericks@outlook.com www.benandfred.co.uk @benandfred
31
Meldreth Village Monday
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
Tuesday
Wednesday
10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
2.00-4.00pm Companions Road) 6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis
9.15am Cycling Group 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates
10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.40-11.30am Mobile Library 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates
7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
Thur
7.30pm WI
7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
10.00am-12.00 Handbells 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
9.15am Cycling Group
7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis
10.00am-12.00 Handbells
7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00-10.00pm Crafters
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 32
e Diary - August
sday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday 9.45am Family Communion (Sung Eucharist)
Good (13 Howard
m Fitness
5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
m Table 10.30am - 1.00pm Tennis Courts Opening (see back page)
m Fitness
10.00am - 4.00pm Rat Show
m Table
m Table
5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
Copy deadline for September issue
m Fitness
m Table
8.00am Holy Communion (Said Eucharist)
9.45am Family Communion (Sung Euch.) 10.30am Sponsored Walk (see pages 26-27) 3.00-5.00pm Cream Teas, Holy Trinity 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ 8.00am Holy Communion (Said Eucharist)
1.00pm Lunch Club, Elin Way (see page 30)
5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen
The copy deadline for the September issue of Meldreth Matters is Saturday 12th August To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow us on Issuu: https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters
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. 33
Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Thursday 6th July 2017 in Meldreth Village Hall. Present: Councillor R W Goddin (Chairman) Councillor C J Fallon, Councillor R James, Councillor C A Land, Councillor D Lee, Councillor A Young. In attendance: Mrs J Damant (Clerk), Councillor S van de Ven (CCC) Apologies for absence: Councillor Pellatt, Councillor Searles, Councillor Keena and District Councillor Hart, all for personal reasons. Councillor Fallon left the meeting at 9pm. Public Participation There was one member of the public in attendance, no matters were raised. District Councillor Report There was no District Council report. However, the items Councillor Hart has been working on are covered within these minutes. County Councillor Report See pages 23-24 Working Group Updates: Marley Eternit Working Group There was nothing to report from the Working Group. However, there is an update on the M.E. planning application as below. Meldreth Futures Working Group Report was circulated and the group are currently working on the website. There is currently one application being considered. There has been very little take up from organisations within Meldreth and more applications are needed. Councillor Goddin reported that since the last Meldreth Futures meeting, a response from the Preschool has now been submitted. This will be circulated to Councillors. Next meeting will take place in September. 34
Mettle Hill Working Group Councillor Goddin reported that there are two lines of enquiry being investigated: Park Homes and Affordable Housing. Affordable housing is a new concept and due to the proposed application for 150 dwellings at Marley Eternit has only been looked at briefly. However, as the development at Marley may not be approved, and the question of how many affordable houses if any would be attributed to the development, the question of affordable housing at Mettle Hill will now be investigated further. Two companies have shown an interest and will be asked to submit a housing proposal. Councillor Goddin also reported that following a recent site walk it was discovered that there had been activity on it with graffiti taking place and some fly tipping. Under the 1984 Occupiers Liability Act the Parish Council now need to make the area safe. It was proposed by Councillor Young to have a report carried out by a Chartered Surveyor, this was seconded by Councillor Goddin, all agreed 'To carry out a review of the site in regards of the 1984 Occupiers Liability Act, so the Parish Council can put into action any needed actions'. It was proposed by Councillor Young that an amount of £1000 be made available for this report, seconded by Councillor Goddin, all agreed. Village Traffic Working Group A meeting is to be arranged. Chairman's Discretion additional item: Tennis Club The courts’ refurbishment is nearing completion. However, the question of protecting the fence adjacent to the car park was raised at a recent site meeting. Councillor Young suggested that they should keep the temporary Heras security fencing for the time being while quotes are sought for a more permanent fencing arrangement. It was also suggested that the back of the Village Hall could also do with some sort of fencing protection. Councillor Young will make enquiries so that this can be discussed at the September meeting. There will be an official opening of the new tennis courts in August [see page 6 and back cover]. Marley Eternit proposed development of 150 dwellings The application was discussed by the SCDC planning committee at Cambourne on 5th July 2017. Councillor Goddin, Councillor van de Ven, Mr Philip Kratz and Councillor Lee attended. Councillor Hart's 35
submission was read out by Councillor van de Ven. [The submissions from Councillors Hart and van de Ven are reproduced on pages 20-23.] The application was deferred by the planning committee and a new Highways report requested. The SCDC planning committee were not happy with many aspects of the proposed development. It is believed that this was the best result for the time being as a refusal would have meant that the applicant would go straight to appeal. The Parish Council now need to put together a document with their further arguments to assist SCDC in their case. Pavilion Construction Councillor Goddin has checked the recent works in the pavilion and payment for the final part of stage three and four has been made. Due to the timing of Parish Council meetings it was agreed by the Chairman that the front doors should have a wrought iron grill frontage instead of a shutter system. This will help deter footballs being kicked against the door. The grills are forecast to cost less than the shutter and therefore come within the original quotation. The contractors have been requested to complete the project by early August in good time for the joint tennis court/pavilion opening on Saturday 12th August. Security for Pavilion The CCTV equipment has now been received. Clerk has contacted the contractor who will be installing the equipment. Pavilion Management Programme Councillors Young and Goddin have met with the prospective cleaner to agree the normal scope of work. Also a complete 'deep clean' will take place once the refurbishments have been done. This will be done prior to the Tennis Club's official opening. There is still no uptake on the role of Overseer; Councillor Young will oversee for the time being. Pavilion Keys Keys have now been authorised to the relevant people and an agreement will be signed by all those with a set of keys. Pavilion Agreement An agreement will be submitted for all those using the pavilion. The question of fees was discussed. It was proposed by Councillor Young that there is to be a fee for regular users and a fee for non regular users. The Saturday Football Club will pay an annual amount of ÂŁ300, the Sunday Football Club to be agreed in September and a single use charge of ÂŁ6.00 per hour. It was not decided what the Tennis Club will pay as 36
it is not known if they will be a regular or non regular user. Playground Monthly Report Councillor Fallon reported that all the play equipment appears to be in good working order. Recreation Ground The Clerk is in the process of setting up site meetings with contractors to clear the ditch and reinstate the banks at the back of the recreation ground. However, one of the problems associated with clearing this ditch is the overgrown ditch on the other side of the recreation ground. Clerk and Councillor Fallon met with representatives from SCDC to see what can be done regarding the ditch at the back of the sheltered bungalows towards Bell Close and it was agreed to obtain quotations for this work.
Street Light Survey Clerk has enquired with Balfour Beatty regarding whether the survey can be extended to cover the whole village and all footway lights and what the time frame would be, awaiting a response. It was agreed that the survey still be carried out in regards to replacing the lights along North End (SC1-SC9) and Chiswick End (SC10-SC13) and are awaiting confirmation from Balfour Beatty. Correspondence and Clerk's Report: Defibrillators: Clerk is in the process of ordering a defibrillator for the Village Hall. The chairman of the Village Hall Trust has given his consent for this. The question of security was raised, it was felt originally that having an unlocked cabinet would be more beneficial, however the recent information given to the Clerk is that this may not be the case as defibrillators elsewhere are being vandalised, mainly by non village persons. It was agreed to purchase a code lockable cabinet and provide fridge magnets with the code number to all households/ businesses within Meldreth. The second defibrillator machine is to be placed in the red telephone box in North End once it has been maintained and this can only be done once the phone box has been adopted by the Parish Council. Community Heartbeat Trust is in the process of doing this. Dog Bins: Clerk has been in touch with SCDC to discuss the possibility of new dog bins near the War Memorial and Burtons. Ditch (protected watercourse) behind Gables Close: Clerk has had correspondence from a resident who is looking at completing a Community Chest Grant application to make a piece of land near 37
Gables Close and the protected ditch safer for children. Clerk and Councillor Fallon had a site visit and spoke to the resident. Clerk has now forwarded the request to Councillor van de Ven and Councillor Hart to see what can be done. The ditch is maintained by CCC and the land is near a SCDC house, so the land may also be SCDC land. Litter bin: A new bin to be ordered to replace the bin knocked over at the stocks. Dog Fouling: The grass cutter has reported that there is a lot of dog fouling on the footpath leading from the recreation ground towards Howard Road, which is making strimming very difficult. Clerk has posters which were ordered but as yet have not been erected. There will be five posters in total which glow in the dark. Audit: Documentation has been placed on notice boards and all relevant documents have been sent to the external auditors. Grass Cutting Grant: This has been received (ÂŁ652.37). Clerk has written to CCC to enquire if this can be raised as the Parish Council have now taken over the verges which SCDC were cutting until this year whereby it was handed back to CCC's responsibility. When the Clerk met with CCC it was asked if the grant can be raised to help cover this extra cost. Melwood: Financial assistance was agreed for Melwood from the precept to cover their insurance and other community works. A den building event with story telling has taken place which was very successful. Assistance from the Community Benefit was given for machinery. Parish Council Meeting Venue: It has been raised by Councillor Hart and Councillor van de Ven to move the venue to the Community Room. This matter was discussed and it was unanimously agreed that Parish Council meetings should remain in the Village Hall. The next scheduled meeting will take place on 7th September at 7.30pm, unless one is called before to discuss the result of the Mettle Hill Chartered Surveyor report. 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.
38
Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston SG8 6LT Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm By appointment at other times Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928
parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk
Parish Councillors: Mrs C J Fallon
(01763) 262822
joan.fallon@btinternet.com
Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061
goddin@btinternet.com
Dr R James
(01763) 261085
roger@rogerjames.net
Mr A Keena
(01763) 260267
alankeena@aol.com
Mr C A Land
(01763) 261004
c.land963@btinternet.com
Mr D Lee
(01763) 261571
david@oakrits.plus.com
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
AFFORDABLE PLUMBING FIXED PRICE SMALL WORKS: Taps changed/repaired Ball valves changed Cisterns repaired/replaced Blockages cleared Outside taps installed Washing machine/dishwasher installation Radiators replaced, trv valves fitted/changed All at Affordable prices Free no obligation quotes Contact Michael 07850 652838 or 01223 264658 Email: affordableplumbing99@yahoo.co.uk ALL WORK GUARANTEED FULLY INSURED 39
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
The Most Thorough Clean or it’s Free!
www.a10timber.co.uk
Barwick Ford Ware, Herts. SG11 1AL Tel: 01279 842016 0808 155 3631 sales@a10timber.co.uk
Carpet, Upholstery, Leather, Rug & Stone/Tile Cleaning Call today on 01223 863 632 Please quote “Meldreth Mag” Denny Lodge Business Park, Ely Road, Chittering
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 * 40
Meldreth Preschool www.meldrethpreschool.com Preschool is closed for the summer, but the end of the summer term was packed with fun-filled activities. The ‘summer’ weather was not enough to put us off sports day. Although we did not get to use the track so kindly painted on the rec for us (many thanks to Joan Fallon) we did have a lively time in the Village Hall and all the children entered into the spirit of the event. We also had our class photographs, including graduation pictures, taken by Anna Marriage of Marriage Photography, which was a lot of fun and the families got some lovely images to remind them of the fun that all our children have at the Preschool. Our leavers’ concert was a roaring success, with the children singing their hearts out and their families getting a chance to enjoy the results of their hard work, practising and preparing for the show. Everyone at the Preschool would like to wish the children who will be moving up to Primary School the very best for September. We always like to hear from those who have ‘graduated’ from Preschool and we know many of the leavers have younger siblings who will be keeping us busy for the next year. Although the Preschool is closed for the summer holidays, we never really stop working! All our staff spend their free time learning, planning and coming up with ideas to bring to the children in the new term and the staff and committee will be making plans for September and beyond throughout the summer holidays. We’d like to thank all the staff for their hard work this year and their dedication in ensuring that the children in our care are always provided with opportunities to learn and play within a safe and nurturing environment. We hope that they enjoy a well-earned rest over the summer. We still have some places available for September, although sessions are getting booked up quickly. We will be able to process applications over the summer, so do get in touch using the contact details on our website - www.meldrethpreschool.com - if you are interested in a place for the coming term. Meldreth Preschool 41
1st Melbourn Guides We welcomed six new Guides to our unit after Easter, and have also gained three new adult helpers: Victoria, Anushka and Chloe. The older girls in the unit have also started to help run activities for us; our summer term started with Isobel and Jess running a ‘Disability Awareness’ themed evening, during which we tried a blindfold obstacle course, a lip-reading challenge, and drawing a poster with our ‘wrong’ hand. We were blessed with a warm sunny evening for our hike along the river to the Melwood, during which we practised map reading and emergency first aid. The Agility badge gave another chance for outdoor activity as the girls demonstrated their throwing & catching skills, gymnastic and yoga moves, and stamina with a skipping rope. On another evening we had a netball session at M-C sports, run by Jess and Emily and parent Tracey. Crafts are a traditional Guiding activity, and for Fathers day we made origami shirt greetings cards, and sewed phone cases from felt. Nature awareness is important aspect of Guiding, and one evening the girls learnt to identify garden birds from pictures, did a tree hunt round the churchyard, and sketched the flowers in the Community Hall garden. A District Hike and picnic gave us yet another outdoor experience; we hiked on footpaths from Melbourn to Whaddon via the Stret and Kneesworth, identifying crops in the fields, and using a map and compass along the way. 42
An invitation from Barrington Guides to join their half-term camp in Newmarket gave new girls the opportunity to experience a night under canvas, and provided the older girls with the chance to sleep in a bivouac in the woods. It was very dark, and the barking deer sounded scary, but it was the daddy-long-legs and earwigs which caused the most screaming! If you would like to know more about joining our waiting list or becoming a leader, or if you have any skills or hobbies which you would like to share with us, please contact me on (01763) 261443 or email: melbournguides@gmail.com Hilary Marsh
Royston Kite Festival: Children’s Art Competition This competition is being run by Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire and will be judged in the following age categories: under 3, 3– 5 year olds, 6–8 year olds and 9-11 year olds The theme of the competition is to design a kite picture. Come along and see us on the HomeStart stall at the Kite Festival on 6th August and do your picture then. There will be a display of pictures on our stall and entries will be judged towards the end of the event. Prizes will be awarded for each age category and winners will be notified If you have any queries or require further information, please call the Home-Start office on (01763) 262262. Tracy Aggett Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire 43
What’s On for Children and Families in August These events are taking place in the local area. For Meldreth events, please see page 6. Tuesday 1st to Friday 4th August, 11.00am – 3.00pm Family Art Week at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge Free, drop-in sessions for children of all ages looking at Indian art and creating art works. Events vary each day - stories, dancing and tours – check for details of Summer at the Museums. https://issuu.com/ camunivmuseums/docs/ucm_summer_at_the_museums_2017_for_/8 Sunday 6th August, 10.30am – 4.30pm Royston Kite Festival, Therfield Heath Watch kites, fly your own kite, make a kite, look at the Historic Vehicle Show and climb on a tractor. Food, ice creams and stalls. £3 for over 14s, free for under 14s. Proceeds to HomeStart Royston and South Cambs (see details of children’s competition on page 43). See: www.roystonkitefestival.com. Tuesday 8th August, 10.00am – 12.00pm for children 5 – 9 years, 1.00 – 3.00pm for 3 – 5 years Adventures with Art, Wandlebury Country Park, CB22 3AE Make sun catchers and clay creations inspired by a walk around the park. Children must be accompanied. £8 per child. See: www.cambridgeppf.org. Sunday 20th August, 11.00am – 3.00pm Animal Antics, Wood Green, Chishill Road, Heydon SG8 8PN Free entry. Tour the cattery, meet some rodents, handle pets, take a ferret for a walk, make a toy for your pet or try being a vet. Face painting, BBQ, storytime. See: www.woodgreen.org.uk. Wednesday 23rd August, 10.30am – 12.30pm or 2.00 – 4.00pm Go Wild: Owl Detective, Wicken Fen, Wicken, Ely CB7 5XP
Find out about the Fen’s owls with games, pellet dissection and more. For ages 8 to 12, accompanied. £5.50 per child. To book call 0344 249 1895. Sunday 27th August, 12.00 – 5.00pm Fen Ditton800 Medieval Fair, Church Street, Fen Ditton CB5 8SX Games, bouncy castle, boat trips, dancing, falconry, stalls, food including a hog roast. Fancy dress parade 1.45pm – princes, princesses and dragons. Free entry. For details call (01223) 863035. 44
Compiled by Hilary Crawforth
Dust Free Wood Floor Sanding & Restoration
ETERNIT SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB
Is your Wooden Floor in need of Sanding?
Licensed Bar ~~~~~~~ Children’s Outdoor Activity Area ~~~~~~~ Fully Equipped Gym (Membership Required) ~~~~~~~ Hall Available For Private Hire (Competitive Rates) ~~~~~~~ Local Gig Venue ~~~~~~~ Tel. 01763 260250 www.melbourn-rock-club.com
Call today on 01223 863 632 Please quote “Meldreth Mag” Denny Lodge Business Park, Ely Road, Chittering
Personal Trainer Michael Easton
Training in Your Own Home or at Melbourn Gym Individual, personalised programmes http://backtothefitness.co.uk
01763 249254
MELDRETH LANDSCAPES
We can make life a little easier Local Community Services at Moorlands Court
Design & Layout Plans
Day Centre
Hard Landscaping & Lighting
Our friendly day centre is open from 10 am to 3 pm, Tuesdays to Fridays.
Planting & Water Features
Interesting activities, sociable atmosphere, home cooked lunch.
Pergolas, Decking, etc
Transport available for older people living in Melbourn and nearby villages.
Tel: 01763 261463
From just £7.90 per day.
www.meldrethlandscapes.co.uk
To find out more, just call us at Moorlands Court on 01763 260564, or email: denise.taylor@chsgroup.org.uk
Kneesworth Rd., Meldreth, Royston, Herts
45
CYTECH Trained • Road Bikes and Mountain Bikes • Services • Repairs • Assembled Boxed Bikes • Puncture Repairs • Folders • Setting Up Transmission • Solvent Free Parts Wash • Wheelbarrow punctures • Much More Competitive out of town rates available for all customers, drop in and see us.
All enquiries welcome. 46
Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Year 6 Residential Trip to Scarborough Having just returned from the annual residential to ‘Sunny Scarborough’, I can officially confirm that it’s not always true. However, even when it’s not true, ‘Soaking Scarborough’ is just as fantastic a destination for 23 Year 6 children to bond, learn, play and miraculously transform into wonderful young adults ready to continue their journey on to secondary school. I never view the prospect of taking care of all those children for a week, 24 hours a day, to be a burden or cause for concern. The planning that goes into the trip before the coach even pulls away from the school, is designed to ensure their safety and well-being is my priority. Once we have waved off the parents, it’s me and them! I’m honoured to be trusted with what is undoubtedly our parents’ most precious treasure. From that point on, for five solid days, the children are given the ‘freedom’ to enjoy a rich variety of experiences away from their families and outside of their comfort zone (when I say ‘freedom’, I should change my name to David Blaine such are my talents in illusion!). So, what did they get up to? I shall let Evie Le May, Alan Plester, Lewis Pitman, Lucy Comyn, Olivia Dixon, Kai Kemp & Megan Huff paint the picture for you ... Sally Willan Woodpecker Class Teacher Scarborough – I loved each and every moment! I set my alarm for 5:30am on Monday or I wouldn’t have got there in time! Mrs Willan, AKA the Willanator, took us on the residential trip to Scarborough! Monday, on the way there, we went to Warwick Castle. We went inside a dungeon…. it was pretty scary if I’m honest! Mrs Willan didn’t go in – she’s frightened of the dark!! When we visited the dungeons, I didn’t feel scared until the last room, where the lady kept appearing in your face when the lights came on.
47
After it, we settled down to eat lunch whilst watching a bird show. We then hopped back on the bus and continued our journey to the hotel in Scarborough. When I started seeing signs for Scarborough, I was so excited. I was singing along to my music, probably really badly and really loudly! When we got to the hotel, I realised we would have to pull our suitcases up seven flights of stairs (well, I told them that it wasn’t the sort of hotel to have concierge service! – Mrs W). After that, we walked the mile down to the beach, played football and had a sand fight. The food was GREAT! It was a full English every morning! Maybe hash browns or sausages… Tuesday – we got on the coach and it was TIPPING it down! We had to walk 6 miles to Robin Hood’s Bay, have our lunch in the rain and walk back 6 miles! We then went to Whitby Abbey where we were told the story of Dracula and looked around the ruins, including Dracula’s coffin! More scary stuff! After dinner, we all went in the pool and then off to bed. Wednesday – It must have been my dream come true; we visited A CHOCOLATE FACTORY! We learnt how valuable the cocoa beans were back then. At the end we got to make and decorate our own
48
lollies. Mrs Willan took loads of the toppings and shoved them in her mouth (Surely not??… Mrs W). Back in Scarborough we walked to the beach in the torrential rain – it was amazing! Then we went back and played Dead Lions. Thursday we went to Dalby Forest to do cycling. The first thing we did was to take a test to see whether we should go in the higher group or the lower one. I got in the higher group and I am glad I did as it was so much fun. However, I did have some MAJOR accidents – I have a massive bruise on my leg to prove it. I was given a free cycle shirt for my superb fall, which made it all better. Up in the hills the view was incredible as the clouds covered the trees. I was glad I chose the top group as I pushed myself to my limits. We also got to go on the BMX track and do all the stunts. The night time visits to the beach were my favourite times at Scarborough. On the last night, we climbed to the ruins of Scarborough Castle and then sat on the beach eating chips. After, everyone was building a massive sandcastle. I had the job of lookout and had to say when a wave came in too far. When I wasn’t concentrating, an enormous wave came in and everyone got soaked. Friday – although I was really upset that it was my last day, I was also over the moon as we were heading to the Lightwater Valley Theme Park. It was full of the scariest rides. I was a little worried at first but then we all went on the Claw, the Black Pearl (360 degree upside down turn) – twice – and we even got Mrs Willan on the Twister! Scarborough was the best ever! I just want to do it all over again! Meldreth Primary School 49
Local Events in August Here is a selection of events happening nearby in August. To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Until 8th September, during normal opening hours Summer Art Exhibition: My Own World The Plough, Shepreth, Cambridgeshire SG8 6PP Featuring the lively and colourful work of illustrator, author and designer Tracy McGuiness-Kelly. More information available by email: Art@ThePlough or phone: (01763) 290348. Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th August, 10.00am to 7.00pm Cambridge Thai Festival Parker’s Piece, Cambridge CB2 1AA Experience the taste of Thailand, unwind with a Thai massage, enjoy traditional sports, music and dancing. Tickets £4 per day; under 12s free. For more information: www.magicofthailand.co.uk. Sunday 6th August, 1.00pm to 3.00pm Dragonflies at Fen Drayton RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes Reserve, Cambridgeshire CB24 4SR Expert-led walk to learn about the amazing butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies on this reserve. Tickets: £2 for RSPB members, £4 nonmembers. Telephone (01954) 233260 or visit: www.rspb.org.uk. Saturday 12th to Sunday 27th August, 10.00am to 6.00pm Anglian Potters Summer Exhibition Old Library, Emmanuel College, Cambridge CB2 3AP More than 60 of East Anglia’s leading ceramicists exhibit their work. Browse or buy, plus a chance to meet the potters. Free entry. More information at: www.anglianpotters.org.uk or phone 07771 948874. Sunday 13th August, 12.00 to 4.30pm MK50 Summer Concert Series: The Swinging Sixties Bletchley Park, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB Dance the afternoon away to the sound of tribute band Sparkling 66 bringing you hits from pop’s most famous decade. Barbecue available from noon. Event included in normal admission prices. For more details visit: www.bletchleypark.org.uk. 50
Sundays 13th, 20th and 27th August, 11.00am to 12.30pm Sunday Stroll – A Brief Walk in History Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Cambridgeshire SG8 0BW Join a 1.2 mile parkland walk and learn how the Wimpole landscape has changed over the years. Free event and no booking needed but check www.nationaltrust.org.uk for National Trust admission charges. Saturday 19th August, 9.00am to 5.00pm St Neots Dragon Boat Festival River Great Ouse Regatta Meadow, St Neots, Cambs PE19 7SR Enjoy the excitement of a day of dragon boat racing in aid of local charities. For more information: www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk. Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th August, 12.30 pm and 2.00pm Peckover House and Garden – Behind the Scenes Tours Peckover House, North Brink, Wisbech, Cambs PE13 1JR Explore parts of this National Trust house not normally open to visitors. Booking advisable – please call (01945) 583463 or visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk. Normal NT admission charges apply. Until 26th August 2017, at various times and venues Cambridge Shakespeare Festival Spectacular open-air performances in the magical setting of a Cambridge college garden. Full period costume, live Elizabethan music. Enjoy a picnic beforehand. Programme details and booking information: www.cambridgeshakespeare.com or ring 07955 218824. Saturday 26th August 10.00am to 5.30pm Cambridge District Art Circle Exhibition, Village Hall, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 9NF Summer exhibition of work in a variety of media by local amateur and professional artists -some available to buy. Home-made refreshments. Free. More information: www.wherecanwego.com Sunday 27th August, 2.00pm onwards Dahlia Day 18 Greenbanks, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 6AS Enter the informal dahlia competition, judged by the Rev. Lizzie Shipp, or just enjoy a cream tea and a glass of wine. Proceeds in aid Of All Saints Church, Melbourn, for the repair of the west window. 51
Compiled by John Crawforth
Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and
Detail
Parish Council Recommend
6 Whitecroft Road, S/1921/17/FL
First floor extension above existing single storey garage.
The Planning Committee recommend 'Refusal' with comments. The proposed extension is out of keeping in term of size, character and finish. Loss of privacy to adjacent dwelling at 29 Oakrits. The proposal appears to be contrary to DP2 of the Development Control Policies.
Former GoCold Building, Station Yard, High Street, S/1502/17/FL
Demolition of existing factory building and office and construction of 27 dwellings with associated landscaping.
The Parish Council recommend Refusal with comments. Vote taken: all in favour to refuse the application. Even though the site does need developing there is major concern on the access route and the junction needs to be improved. The flats, already developed, will soon have residents and this along with the proposed development will only add to the traffic issues at this junction. It was noted that in the pre application it was for 20 dwellings, it is now stating 27 dwellings and there has been no prior consultation on this development. It was also noted that there is no local style and they are all of one style which may be too much, a mix of styles may have been preferred. If SCDC are minded to approve this application it has been noted that there is no S106 facility and it is felt that with an increase in population that the footway across the bridge towards Fieldgate is inadequate. There have been instances whereby vehicles have ended up over the bank. There also needs to be safety feature put in place over the bridge. It was also requested that the application be referred to SCDC Planning Committee. 52
Reference and
Detail
Parish Council Recommend
61a High Street, T1, Fell Sycamore, T2, The Planning Committee have no S/1958/17/TC reshape young Acer, T3, comments, all in favour of the reshape young Acer, T4, proposed works reduce Sycamore Land between Burtons and West Way, off Whaddon Road, S/2939/16/FL
Residential development to provide affordable housing comprising 4no2 bedroom flats and 1no2 bed detached bungalow, access road, residents and visitors parking and open space. INFORMATION ONLY
Though this is for information only it was noted that there appears to be insufficient allocated parking for the proposed dwellings. There is also uncertainty on the design of the bungalow which now is L shaped. Is the heras fencing a permanent fixture? Clarification is also sought regarding the refuse bin collection to turning head on West Way.
Land rear of 79 High Street, S/1124/17/OL
Erection of 18 dwellings (including affordable) with all matters reserved except for access.
The Parish Council recommend Refusal with comments. Vote taken: all in favour of Refusal The Parish Council's original comments still stand. (Minuted on the 20th April 2017). The Parish Council are still concerned on the loss of privacy to the neighbouring property at Maycroft Residential Home, and the development is still too close. The dwellings on the south east corner appear to be closer in the new application. It is also noted that the access route is also dangerous.
The full minutes of Meldreth Parish Council planning meetings are available on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.
The latest SCDC planning decisions are given on pages 54-55.
53
Planning Matters SCDC Decisions Reference and Address
Decision
64 Whitecroft Road S/3517/16/LD
Lawful development certificate for the creation of an outbuilding for home office, sewing room and gym. 'Refusal of Certificate of Lawful Proposed use or Development. The proposal is not in accordance with Class E, sch2, pt 1 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. Permission has been granted for extension and alterations in conjunction with rearrangement of the external site area and provision of a garage building.
94 High Street (British Queen) S/3056/16/FL & S/3057/16/LB
Other items: 70 Whitecroft Road, S/1073/16/OL
Erection of 9 residential properties and other associated works. Application was considered by the Chair of the Planning committee and the Head of Development Management on 14th November 2016. It was agreed at the meeting that the application should be determined under delegated powers for the following reasons: The site is not of a scale that would warrant consideration by the planning committee. Whilst the site is located outside the village framework, due to a lack of five year housing land supply, site for residential units outside of this area can be considered. Provision of 40% affordable housing will be required from the development and this will be offered firstly to local people. The Highways Authority have reviewed the scheme in regards to the impact of the two access points and consider this to be suitable subject to a condition ensuring there are visibility splays in both directions. Officers will now finalise their delegation report but it is confirmed that the decision will be that of approval. 54
Maycroft Residential Home: Work is intended to commence of the 19th June; however they have been unable to get all the pre-start planning conditions discharged via SCDC. The first phase includes taking part of the front wall down, this will give a temporary access route. The whole wall is to be taken down and rebuilt at a later date. The first phase is the wing to the rear of the existing building and once that has been completed, phase 2 which is the demolition and rebuilding of the existing home, will begin. The taking down of the front wall will ensure that construction traffic is not parked on the road and the wall will be rebuilt. 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
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
55
Coton Electrical
Flat Roofing Specialists
for all Domestic wiring
CAMBRIDGE ROOFERS
Full rewiring Consumer units Lights and switches New sockets Gardens Kitchens & bathrooms
NEW! Inspections PAT Tests NEW!
INSURANCE BACKED GUARANTEES FOR ALL NEW ROOFS
Free estimates www.cotonelectrical.co.uk david@cotonelectrical.co.uk
Call David on 07749 850026 17 Flambards Close, Meldreth
01223 782382 info@roofing-cambridge.co.uk www.roofing-cambridge.co.uk
Fowlmere Primary School Playworkers
Midday Supervisor
required for our after-school childcare 10-16 hours per week 2.45 - 6pm, term-time only £7.78 - £8.36 per hour
required at our friendly village school 5 hours per week 12noon - 1pm, daily, term-time only £7.90 - £8.09 per hour
(Scale 1 Points 6-12)
(Scale 1c Points 8-10)
For applicant information please email patkin@fowlmere.cambs.sch.uk or leave a message on 01763 208203 Please state which posts are of interest. Applications close: 9am, 14th August “Fowlmere Primary School is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of all our pupils and expects the same of all staff and volunteers.”
56
Shepreth Wildlife Park Shepreth Wildlife Conservation Charity Hedgehog Hospital We have several hedgehogs in our care at the moment that cannot be released back into the wild but could go to secure, walled gardens. These hedgehogs are usually blind, three-legged or disabled in some other way and will require life long care. We have some criteria for these special placements to keep these hedgehogs safe and well cared for: you must live no further than 10/15 miles from the hospital the garden must be walled and completely secure the hog must be provided with a couple of wooden hedgehog houses to give a choice of nesting sites the garden must provide a rich, natural environment for the hedgehog (shrubs, grass, bushes etc.) there must be no large ponds. A small wildlife pond would usually be acceptable but nothing bigger. there must be no dogs with access to the garden the hedgehog must be provided with fresh food and water daily and provision must be made whilst on holiday for someone to come and care for him/her the hospital must be notified of any concerns or issues. If you meet these requirements and you would like to be considered as a suitable home for one of these hedgehogs, please email swcc@sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk for an application form.
Volunteering Opportunities Shepreth Wildlife Park often has vacancies for volunteers to work with animals, in the gardens or to help at fundraising events for the Shepreth Wildlife Conservation Charity. All volunteers must be over 18 years of age. Details of volunteering opportunities and an application form can be found on their website: https://sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk/volunteers-vacancies. Shepreth Wildlife Park 57
Animal Matters: 14 Things your Vet Wishes you Knew ... 1. Preventative medicine is exactly that
Spending a bit of time and money on preventative healthcare, including vaccinations, flea and worm control really does prevent bigger problems happening in the future! 2. Dental chews do not clean teeth all on their own Dental healthcare takes more than a chew a day. Annual scale and polishes and daily brushing and using a food proven to help clean teeth ( not all dry diets are the same!) is really the only approach that will make a significant difference in your pets' dental health. 3. We have laws we have to abide by Veterinary medicine is affected by many UK laws and we are duty bound to abide by them, particularly concerning the sale of prescription medication. This may mean that you cannot always just pop in to pick up repeats. 4. Over the counter flea control, wormers and nutritional supplements don't always work Products sold outside of veterinary practices do not have to adhere to the same safety and efficacy standards as the prescription ones sold in your local practice, some can even be very dangerous! If you want something that works and that is proven to be safe it’s best to get advice from the surgery. 4. Medicine is not an exact science Unfortunately our pets do not always read the textbook! Each pet is different and sometimes it can take a while to come to a diagnosis. 6. Earlier treatment is always better than later treatment If we can catch a problem early we are more likely to get a cheaper outcome for you and a better outcome for your pet. Old age is not a disease. Too often we hear the phrase “but he's getting old and has had a good life�. Old pets can still feel pain, become unwell and most importantly ... be helped! Don't be tempted to withhold treatment for the golden oldies because of their age. There is absolutely loads we can do to help them with their aches and pains and a life in pain is no life at all! Annual health checks are especially important for animals over 8 years of age. 58
8. Animals are expensive Before taking on a pet, make sure you can afford it. If vet bills are going to be a struggle then get some insurance and choose a pet that is within your budget to keep. Big dogs cost more. 9. Google and Facebook do not always have the answers While there is a lot of very useful advice online, in our experience some of it is very questionable and we have all seen potentially dangerous advice given over Facebook. Be careful where you get your advice from, a telephone call to your vet costs nothing and could be the difference in a good or bad outcome for your pet. 10.Pedigrees come with their own special set of problems You may be better off with a crossbreed. Pedigree dogs, cats and rabbits are all known to have many more health problems than crossbreeds. These can be at least more expensive and at worst completely heart-breaking. Choose carefully. 11.We are not an expert on everything While most vets in general practice have a good rounded knowledge of veterinary medicine, sometimes it may be more appropriate for your pet to see a specialist. Exotic pets in particular may benefit from seeing someone who really knows what they are talking about. 12.Give your pet what they need and you're less likely to have behavioural issues If you have a dog , train him, walk him, socialise him, spend time with him and allow him off-lead exercise. If you have a cat, groom him, love him and pander to him and if you have a rabbit, allow him free space, companionship and a varied fresh diet. Do your research and give your pet what they need and you will have a much more harmonious relationship with them. If you can’t give them the time and attention they require every single day for their entire lifetime then maybe they are not the right pet for you. 14.We love what we do If we didn't, we couldn't cope. Our job is stressful, emotional, busy and at times heart-breaking but most of us wouldn't change a thing! We get very attached to our patients and want to treat them as if they were our own. The animals are the reason we do this for a living and the reason we are all so passionate about their care. Jo Brown, RVN 59
Fire Governance Consultation We want your views about changing the governance of the Fire and Rescue Service in Cambridgeshire. This follows government legislation to promote greater joint working between emergency service organisations. Four options have been evaluated and the resulting report (The Business Case) recommends the Governance option. This option proposes that the Police and Crime Commissioner becomes the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and has overall responsibility for the governance of both Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service and Cambridgeshire Constabulary. Further information and a questionnaire are available online: http://www.cambridgeshire-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/fire-governanceconsultation Consultation closing date 04 September 2017 Cambridgeshire Constabulary
MELBOURN FLOORING AND INTERIORS LIMITED Cherry Park, Cambridge Road, Melbourn, SG8 6EY Tel: 01763 262413 Fax: 01763 262450 Vast Range of Carpets, Vinyls, Real Wood, Laminates, Karndean, Amtico and Project Floors Free Estimates - Fitting by experienced staff Dulux Paint stocked in a wide range of colours Over 6000 Wallpaper samples Colour co-ordination service by experienced staff Designer Fabrics, most with next day delivery - Curtain making service Match flooring to walls and fabric for a designer finish New Tile showroom at 26 Royston Road, Foxton, CB22 6SE, 01223 870011. Covering all your tiling needs. www.melbournflooring.co.uk j.shepherd@melbournflooring.co.uk VISIT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM 9 TO 5 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9 TO 4 SATURDAY OR CALL ON 01763 262413 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY STAFF. AMPLE FREE PARKING.
60
Fire & Rescue Service With the summer holidays in full swing, we are warning young people to stay safe in the County’s waterways and making you aware of the dangers of swimming in open water. The Fire Service’s #RememberRony campaign aims to educate young people about the risks associated with open water. It is backed by the family of Huntingdon schoolboy Rony John, who sadly died in 2014 during the first week of the summer holidays, while playing with friends in the Great River Ouse. It is important for parents and young people to be aware of the many risks that open water possesses. Even though the sun may be shining, the water could still be very cold causing the body to cramp up quickly and posing a risk to you getting out the water safely. If you see someone in trouble in water call 999 immediately with clear details of your location and if possible send someone to the nearest road to flag down the emergency services when they arrive. You can find the nearest life ring or anything that could help them float, and if someone goes under the water, mark on the water’s edge the place they were last seen with something like a piece of clothing. For more information about water safety visit www.cambsfire.gov.uk or to pledge that you will stay safe around open water this summer, use the hashtag #Remember Rony on social media. Cambridge Fire & Rescue Service
Forthcoming Event On Sunday 15th October at 3.00pm Link Murang’a will present a concert in All Saints Community room, Melbourn featuring local musicians and singers in aid of the Kambiti dispensary project. Donations of £7 per ticket which includes tea and cake. A raffle will be drawn during the interlude. For further details contact Bernice on 07507 863232 or (01763) 261950 or Karen on (01763) 261885. Bernice Gregory 61
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 Jane Bates-(01763) 261638
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
62
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. 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 issuu.com (search for Meldreth)
63
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 ...................................40 Affordable Plumbing ......................39 Art of Clean ...................................40 Art of Clean Wood ........................45 B2B Automotive ..............................40 Benjamin and Fredericks .................31 Cam Valley Orchards .....................39 Cambourne Self Storage ....................2 Cambridge Roofers .......................56 Cambridge Sunblinds .....................31 CHS Day Centre ............................45 CHS Group ...................................55 Coton Electrical ............................56 The Country Store ...........................16 CP Podiatry ....................................16 Ely Design Group ............................28 Eternit Sports and Social Club .........45 Four Counties Tree Services ............16 Fowlmere Primary School (job ad) 56 Gilhooly ....................................Cover Handyman .......................................8 Home Foot Care ..............................7 iPlaster ...........................................25 Keyholes Driving School ...................2 Lawn Partners ..................................7 The Letting Centre .........................28 Little Hands Nursery School ..........40
Mandy Thornton Counselling ............7 Melbourn Flooring .........................60 Melbourn Village College (1) .............7 Melbourn Village College (2) ..........46 Meldreth Landscapes ......................45 Meldreth Plant Hire .........................13 Meridian Lawncare ...........................8 Michael Easton Personal Trainer .....45 Moncraft Computers .........................2 Nancy Foster Footcare .....................15 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service 16 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement ......25 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ................46 Quicksilver Yoga .............................25 Reed Autos .................................Cover Reflections Hair Studio ....................15 Richard Burns Electrician ....................2 Rod’s PC Support .......................Cover Royston Fencing ..............................25 Shelford Energy ...............................16 Slimming World .........................Cover Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ..............25 Summit Landscapes ..........................28 Village Cycles .................................46 Village Garden Services .....................2 Walkers Partnership Solicitors .............8 64
RML
IT CONSULTANTS LTD
RML IT Consultants Ltd Newton Hall, Town Street, Newton, Cambridge CB22 7ZE Tel: +44 (0) 1223 873747, Mobile 07946 216268 Email: info@rmlconsultants.co.uk
INCORPORATING WANT YOUR P.C. REPAIRED AT REASONABLE RATES?
whatever the size of your company we can help… Internet connection and security Firewall/VPN solutions provider Installations and upgrades Network and computer support Wireless networking and security
GIVE ME A CALL ON:07946 216268
All our solutions are individually specified for your company ensuring the best and most cost-effective result:
Implementation of messaging systems Web design and content management Email compliance (archiving and retrieval) Hardware and software expertise and sourcing
G I L H O O LY
Unit 1, Whitecroft Rd, Meldreth, Royston, SG8 8NE
MOTS Cars and vans Service and repairs to all COMMERCIALS HORSE BOXES MINI BUSES
VANS
Flexible working hours to suit you Monday — Saturday
Phone Mick on: 01763 263248
Meldreth Matters is printed by Plumridge Printers 41 High St Linton 01223 891407