Meldreth Matters, December 2017

December 2017

In this issue ...

Marley-Eternit to appeal against planning decision A New MP for Meldreth?

Orchard Manor’s Outstanding Rating Events include ‌ Christmas Tree Festival Sleeping Beauty Pantomime Carol Singing at the British Queen

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Meldreth Matters, December 2017 Contents include …

Meldreth Events Orchard Manor: Outstanding A New MP for Meldreth?

MM Deliverers Futures Group Local History WI Women’s Group Gardening Photographic Club Maycroft Neighbourhood Watch Gifts for Your Pets County Councillor’s Report Citizen’s Advice Poem-a-thon Volunteering Opportunities Parish Council Church Matters Friends of Holy Trinity Preschool Poetry Primary School What’s On for Families Christmas Pantomime Local Events Burns Night Supper News from Heidi Allen Good Companions District Councillor’s Report Planning Charity and Advice Pages Village Directory Index to Advertisers

Page 2-3 4-5 6-7 9 9 10-11 11 13 14-15 17 18-19 20 22 25-27 28-29 30-31 34-37 39 40 42-43 43 44-45 46 47 48-49 51 52-53 53 54 56-57 59-60 62-63 64

Welcome to our final issue of the year, which includes two items that may have a significant impact on the village. The first is the news just in that Marley-Eternit will be appealing against the refusal of their application for planning permission (see Stop Press item on page 3). The second is the proposed parliamentary constituency changes which could see Meldreth moving to a “Letchworth and Royston” constituency. See pages 6-7 for how to have your say.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our deliverers - who are listed on page 9 - for their efforts in delivering the magazine throughout the year.

They, like the whole of the Meldreth Matters Team, are volunteers. Many thanks to our advertisers too, who provide the income required to keep the magazine afloat. Please mention MM when contacting them.

All that remains is for me to wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Kathryn

Cover: Holy Trinity Church, November 2017. Photograph by Kathryn Betts.

The opinions expressed in the letters and articles in this magazine are those of the writers, who are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within them.

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

Copy should be submitted by email where possible, to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT Tel. (01763) 268428 The Editor reserves the right to withhold from publication or to shorten if necessary, any article or letter sent to her.

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December Events in Meldreth Saturday 2nd December, 10.30am - 12 noon Coffee Break Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way Our guests will be the Melbourn branch of the Women’s British Legion who will be holding their annual “table top” games.

Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served so please join us if you can.

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd December, 11.00am - 5.00pm Christmas Tree Festival Holy Trinity Church Parking and entrance free Home made refreshments Seasonal Craft and Produce Stalls Meet Noah the Donkey Advent Service at 5.30pm on Sunday See back page Friday 8th December, 7.30pm Saturday 9th December, 2.00pm and 7.30pm Sunday 10th December, 2.00pm Sleeping Beauty Pantomime

by MADS Meldreth Village Hall See page 47 for details

Friday 8th December, 8.30 - 11.00pm Live rock music with Freak Barn Accident Eternit Sports and Social Club, Whaddon Road All welcome, free entry, licensed bar with real ale, etc.

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Saturday 16th December, 11.00am - 4.00pm National Fancy Rat Society Show Meldreth Village Hall This is the National Fancy Rat Society’s Annual Cup and Christmas Show. Visitors are welcome to drop in to meet some friendly rats and see a large selection of different varieties. There will also be stalls selling accessories and food for small pets and some Christmas cards and gifts.

Tuesday 19th December, 7.00 for 7.30pm Carol Singing The British Queen See page 21

Meldreth Football Club Fixtures Saturday team home fixtures (subject to change) Saturday 9th December, 2.00pm Saturday 16th December, 2.00pm Sunday team home fixtures (subject to change) Sunday 10th December, 10.30am Joan Fallon

* * * STOP PRESS * * * Marley-Eternit Planning Application The Parish Council has heard that, as anticipated, Marley-Eternit are to appeal against refusal of their application for planning permission for 150 houses on part of their Whaddon Road site. We hope more information will be available for the next Parish Council meeting on 7th December.

Meldreth Parish Council 3

Orchard Manor: How We Achieved an Outstanding CQQ Rating We’re delighted to announce that after an inspection in September, Aurora Orchard Manor has been rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This is quite an achievement as just two per cent of adult social care services across England received an Outstanding rating in the last year and now we can say we are one of them – for the second time running! And to top it off last week we received a personal letter from the Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt, congratulating us on our success! As you can imagine all of the team are delighted, but that doesn’t mean we will be resting on our laurels, far from it. Becoming Outstanding takes hard work. It’s the result of many months and years of dedication, focusing on everything we can do to make life as meaningful and purposeful as possible for the people we support.

As many of you will know, Aurora Orchard Manor offers a supportive living and learning environment for young adults (aged 18 plus) who have severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties resulting in complex learning needs. Many have additional physical, sensory and health needs.

So how did we get that all elusive Outstanding rating from the CQC? Firstly, we try to echo a regular life as much as possible for the young people in our care. To be Outstanding you must create a culture that creates as little separation as possible between the experience of the young people in your care and their peers who live in the community without disabilities.

The young people at Aurora Orchard Manor go to the pub, the cinema, the local shops and clubs – all the things that you would expect young men and women to do of their age – and on a regular basis. Ensuring your home is fully integrated into the community so that residents feel they belong in their locality is EVERYTHING. Care homes should not be islands. We must build the bridges to a bigger life.

We support people to maintain or develop skills that enable them to lead as fulfilling and independent life as possible. Central to that is the notion of four core strands; resilience, collaboration, responsibility and creativity. Work on resilience means supporting the young person to maintain their physical and mental health and wellbeing. To do this we 4

offer hydrotherapy, rebound therapy and speech and language therapy.

Our experienced multidisciplinary team of therapists and skills tutors develop individual programmes and timetables to enable young people to learn through practical activities.

Collaboration underpins everything we do and this helps us to support individuals to maintain and develop their social and communication skills. For instance, our skills tutors work with our speech and language therapist to develop individual communication programmes and ensure appropriate aids and equipment are in place. Everything is geared towards making sure that person’s communication is developed which leads to increased independence and engagement with friends, family and the local community.

Teaching responsibility is core to our approach. Our skills tutors and occupational therapist develop individual programmes and a timetable of activity to enable young people to work on skills to prepare them for adulthood and the next stage of their lives. Everyone works together.

And finally, creativity - supporting individuals to explore their local community, engage in new activities and develop interests outside of Orchard Manor. Young people are already working on enterprise activities and engaging with the local community. Activities include the following enterprises: soap making and bath bombs, dog biscuit making, wrapping paper and card making and these are growing all the time. The products are then sold locally or given as gifts to family and friends. In fact, each young person has an individual skills development plan which is agreed between the young person, their family and the multidisciplinary team.

We are hugely proud of Orchard Manor’s Outstanding rating and of our whole team who have contributed to making this happen. Every day we are excited to come to work because we know the difference we make.

Recently a young man joined us. He’d been in hospital for six months with his mother by his side every day. In week one we were worried he might experience uncomfortable separation anxiety without her. He’s settled fabulously and hasn’t stopped laughing since he moved in. Now that’s outstanding.

By Cathy Rundell, Service Manager and Maria Surgenor, Head of Skills Centre Aurora Orchard Manor 5

A New MP for Meldreth?

Proposed Changes to our Parliamentary Constituency The Boundary Commission for England is charged with reducing the number of parliamentary constituencies in UK to 600 and for Cambridgeshire this means losing one constituency. The Commission is charged with making all constituencies more or less the same size between approx. 71,000 and 78,500 electors each but they must also take into account "any local ties that would be broken by changes in constituencies".

The first proposals last year moved the Melbourn, Bassingbourn and The Mordens wards into a North East Hertfordshire constituency with Meldreth ward (including Shepreth) staying in South Cambridgeshire.

The Parish Council objected as it broke a number of local ties with our neighbouring villages. There were also a significant number of similar objections from Melbourn residents and their Parish Council.

However, we warned that we did not want to follow Melbourn and Bassingbourn into North East Herts.

The Boundary Commission have now published modified proposals and are proposing just that!

The proposal that affects us in the report is: “Furthermore, in view of the evidence given about the strong links between the Meldreth and Melbourn wards, and their own observations ‘on the ground’, they recommended to us that the Meldreth ward should also be included in the North East Hertfordshire constituency.

However, they considered that the name of the proposed constituency would be unpopular and that, if we agreed with their recommendations, as the constituency would contain four Cambridgeshire wards, the name North East Hertfordshire would no longer be appropriate. They therefore considered that the name change suggested by the Labour Party – Letchworth and Royston – would be a more appropriate name for the constituency and recommended this to us. We agree with both their recommendations.”

Meldreth Parish Council agreed at their Meeting on 2nd November to oppose the proposal by the Boundary Commission to move Meldreth into the “North East Hertfordshire/Letchworth and Royston”

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constituency as it is against the wishes of Meldreth. All the local opinions we have received suggest that Meldreth residents want to stay in the South Cambridgeshire constituency.

It should be emphasised that Meldreth would stay in Cambridgeshire County and is in the same proposed Cambridgeshire County Council ward as Melbourn and Bassingbourn and the same proposed South Cambridgeshire District Council ward as Melbourn. Albeit with a Stevenage postcode and a Royston telephone number and post town although we are five miles into Cambridgeshire!

Moving Melbourn, Bassingbourn and The Mordens back into the South Cambridgeshire constituency would cause the constituency to exceed the allowed size and would have to be matched by moving other wards out of South Cambridgeshire. Our MP Heidi Allen has made suggestions to the Boundary Commission as to how this might be done.

Many will recall the major local issue five years ago where Meldreth Parish Council was opposing unfair moves by the District and County Councils to reopen the Mettle Hill traveller site. Our then MP, Andrew Lansley, successfully supported our case. If we had then been in the North East Hertfordshire constituency it is unlikely that our MP would have taken up our case so vigorously and it is unlikely that an MP representing only a handful of Cambridgeshire villages would hold any sway over the two Cambridgeshire Councils. We therefore believe it is important that parliamentary constituency boundaries should follow county and district boundaries.

The life of our village is determined much more by Cambridge life than Hertfordshire life. We are regularly included in and affected more by the decisions made in Cambridge rather than those in Hertfordshire. As a village we also need our voice to be heard, at all levels, in decisions that the tiers of local councils may make.

The Boundary Commission proposals can be viewed at https:// www.bce2018.org.uk/ and by entering your postcode and clicking the “Make a Comment� button you can have your say.

You have until 11th December 2017 to tell the Boundary Commission what you think of their proposals and to make your voice heard.

Rob Searles Meldreth Parish Council

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Meldreth Matters: Deliverers We would like to thank the following people who delivered the magazine during 2017 and without whom we would not have been able to deliver the issues of MM to your doors: Ann Askham, Ann Barnes, Ralph Betts, Emma Birch, Sue Broadhurst, Roger Brown, Ged Burns, Jan Butchers, Barbara Chalkley, Linda Clarke, Ron Comben, Sharon Dunford, Tina Evenden, Phillipa Hart, Chris Hill, David Hollamby, Pamela Hoskins, Daphne Jones-Barrie, Christine Knight, Jean Lawrence, Lynn Perkins, Bill Peters, Fletcher Savage, Rosie Smith, Violet Taylor, Ann Thomson, Lynn & Roger Wallbridge, Emily Walter, Linda Winter.

The Meldreth Matters Team

Meldreth Futures Group www.meldrethfutures.org.uk Meldreth Parish Council currently has solar funding grants available for projects that may be beneficial to this village.

Visit our website www.meldrethfutures.org.uk for further information on how to apply. If needed, help is available to complete the application form.

Meldreth Futures Group will review potential projects and forward the applications to the Parish Council so that they can decide which projects to fund.

For further information, contact us by emailing admin@meldrethfutures.org.uk or contact Meldreth’s Parish Clerk, Judy Damant by emailing parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk or telephoning (01763) 269928.

Joan Gane on behalf of Meldreth Futures Group 9

Meldreth Local History Group www.meldrethhistory.org.uk ‘Taking Home the Christmas Duck – an Amusing Case’ Under this heading the Cambridge Daily News of 17th January 1899 carried a report of 59 year old Joshua Lovely’s appearance before the Arrington Petty Sessions. On Christmas Eve 1898 he had been The Arrington Police Station and Court building found by Police Sergeant Ding ‘drunk on the highway’ in the vicinity of the Queen Adelaide public house. This stood on the Meldreth/Whaddon border until it closed in 1956.

The sergeant got him to his feet but he was helplessly drunk and had to be assisted home; on the way there Lovely fell down no less than thirteen times. The Chairman of the bench, Mr E S Fordham, asked PS Ding: "And you, of course, fell with him?" Ding confirmed that he did.

Lovely had said "This is the first time I have been helped home by a policeman and if you prosecute me for being drunk I must own up that I was so."

The defendant stated that he’d left work at six o'clock and had only had one pint of beer but this, together with some tobacco he had smoked, had made him feel dizzy. However, there was a wedding in the district and the police thought the defendant had been there and taken some more drink.

Giving evidence, PS Ding said that, when arrested, the defendant had a duck under his arm which he had won in a draw. The Chairman: "Perhaps it was the duck that overbalanced him?" (Laughter). The witness: "I think not, sir. I took charge of that." The Chairman: "Then you had a duck under one arm and the drake under the other?" (Laughter). The witness: "No, sir. I got a boy to take it for me." The Chairman "Then there was quite a procession, you leading 10

the way with the defendant and the boy bringing up the rear with the duck."

Meldreth WI At our November meeting, Glynis Pilbeam showed us that 'Science can be Fun'. A CD disc, a bottle top and some blue tac showed how initially the hovercraft worked and I even managed to insert a kebab stick into and out of a balloon without bursting it.

There was much laughter and it was a really enjoyable evening.

The defendant pleaded guilty and, when asked if he had anything to say, replied: "I am sorry that I should have got in such a condition but I am not used to drinking much beer, nor yet smoking‌and as soon as I got home I went straight to bed. "The Chairman: "And you did not stay up to partake of the lovely duck?" The defendant: "Not me, sir."

It will be our Christmas meeting next month and we are looking forward to seeing you. Don't forget to bring a knife, fork and spoon.

Sentencing him, the Chairman said that the magistrates were inclined to believe that he was not altogether so drunk as might be supposed. They knew it was Christmas time and doubtless he had had an extra glass; his coming out of licensed premises made them think that something stronger than tobacco had accounted for him feeling so dizzy. But they were not disposed to deal harshly with him: “Seeing that you are an honest, hardworking man and did not, when approached by the police sergeant, behave in an abusive manner, you will be discharged and I hope you will take care in the future." The defendant: "I will, sir."

Jane and the committee would like to wish all our members and friends a Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2018.

Kathleen Thompson

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As he was leaving the court Lovely thanked the magistrates.

John Crawforth Meldreth Local History Group

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Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group Our October meeting was well attended and we took the opportunity to prepare decorations for the Christmas Tree Festival at Meldreth Holy Trinity Church on Saturday 2nd December and Sunday 3rd December.

This year we have not made our own decorations and instead, members brought along some of their own and explained to one another why they had brought them. This was an opportunity to listen to some rich experiences! If you look at our tree, you can see that each decoration has a label attached to it on which we have written details of why that particular decoration was chosen. We hope you enjoy reading them and you will see that we are a varied group of people.

Our thanks to everyone who supported our jewellery stall at All Saints Christmas Bazaar, whether you helped on the day, donated or bought items. Also a big thank you to all who prepared for the event and helped with the setting up and taking down afterwards.

We do not meet in December so our next meeting will be on 23rd January 2018 at All Saints Community Hall, Melbourn when we will have our AGM. Reports and accounts will be given, the programme for the year accepted and members will choose a charity they wish to support in the coming year. We will then have a bring-and -share supper.

We are a small friendly group that meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month and we vary our venues between Melbourn and Meldreth. We either have guest speakers or some “in house” entertainment and end the evening with a cuppa and biscuits.

If you would like to know more, please contact one of the following committee members: Pat Smith on (01763) 262575, Sue Toule on (01763) 260955, Anne Harrison on (01763) 261775 or Angela Leach on (01763) 262793.

Pat Smith

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Notes from a Small Garden You may remember that last month I was crowing about picking leeks in September and early October. Alas I spoke too soon. Our beautiful plants which seemed to be growing so strongly, suddenly collapsed in the middle of October and looked very sick indeed. On closer inspection they had all rotted at the crown and when I cut into them, there were the culprits; little brown cocoons of the leek moth, “which can be a devastating pest, particularly along the eastern and southern coastal areas of England. The young caterpillars of the leek moth tunnel into the leaves of the leek to feed, leaving whitish brown patches. After about a month, they crawl back up the leaves to pupate and spin white cocoons within the foliage. There are two generations of caterpillar each year, the first around May to June, and the second around August to October.”

I dug up all the plants and put them on the bonfire and forked over the bed that they had been in. Luckily I had some plants over, and although looking rather forlorn, I planted them out in different beds, together with some from a friend. We will see if they grow, depending on whether we have hard frosts. Moral: it doesn’t do to count your chickens before they are hatched, and don’t plant your leeks out too early!

Now to plants that are a must in a winter garden. The following shrubs all have a wonderful perfume and originate from China: Christmas Box: sarcocca species evergreen, good in the shade.

evergreen,

white/cream,

Winter Jasmine: jasminum nudiflorum, yellow, prune after flowering.

Winter Honeysuckle: lonicera fragrantissima, cream flowers, bushy, needs pruning after flowering.

Wintersweet: chaemonanthus species, semi evergreen, although I have found this difficult to grow in Chiswick End.

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The following three winter-flowering clematis do well in our local soil and are such a joy to see on a dull winter day; they also catch the winter sun and can positively shine: clematis urophylla 'Winter Beauty', white. clematis armandii, white, not always quite hardy, so it needs to be planted in a protected position, but it is an evergreen species. clematis Advent Bells; lovely hanging white and pink freckled bells. I have one hanging under the thatch; a slight problem now that the thatcher has come!

These clematis do not need pruning but if you want to restrict their growth prune unwanted growth after flowering.

Christmas Jobs in the Garden Buy pots of bulbs, hyacinths or paper white narcissus for the house, if you haven’t managed to plant your own. Support them with garden twigs.

Advice from Which: “To work off the Christmas dinner, you may want to stray outdoors and clear the veg plot. Compost any old plants and put away canes and netting in the shed. Many gardeners like to follow tradition by digging over the soil now, while others prefer to cover the surface with compost or manure instead and let the worms do the hard work.”

Our last Veg Club Plus meeting of the year will be at Sandra and Paul Ray’s, 45 North End at 10.00am on 9th December.

Happy Christmas and good gardening!

Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

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Melbourn and District Photographic Club http://melbournphotoclub.com As one year ends and another begins, we have a full and varied programme for mid-winter including two lectures, four competitions and one club evening. Please note that the club will not meet on 26th December and 2nd and 9th January due to the Club Christmas recess and meal.

Mike James: Towards Dunstanburgh Castle

December’s meetings: 5th: 2nd Open Print Competition. Judge: Paul Radden 12th: Monochrome My Way. Lecture by Ann Miles 19th: Club Evening TBA Meetings are held weekly from 7.30 - 9.30pm on Tuesdays at Foxton Village Hall from September to April.

The Club has a diverse membership, a friendly and supportive atmosphere and welcomes new members, whatever their ability.

Anyone wishing to know more details or see some of our work should visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com or email the Secretary at melbournphotoclub@hotmail.com.

Peter North Secretary 17

News from Maycroft Care Home On 1st November we had our second visit from Liz Monroe, the singer and saxophonist. It was really interesting to see how almost all the residents responded to the tempo and rhythms of the well known pieces she sang and played for them. Nearly all were tapping away on their laps or on the arms of their chairs, a few were joining in singing and two couples had a dance. Each of our other three external entertainers have a different repertoire so the residents have a wide variety from which to choose their favourites.

Fireworks at Maycroft: Memories are made of this!

The following words were heard at Maycroft, as several residents exchanged memories of making a guy, standing with it outside shops (preferably ones that sold fireworks!) and asking for pennies: "Please to remember the 5th of November, Gunpowder, Treason and Plot" "Pennies for the Guy, Mister or Missus."

"Sometimes we would be given several pennies depending on the realism of our Guy" "We bought sparklers and Catherine wheels."

So from the old days to the present day, a goodly number of residents, relatives and friends settled down to a night out. With oohs and aahs as Alaister, with lantern and match taper, moved swiftly to and fro between the separate firework displays he had set up in the front garden. A myriad of rockets, shooting stars, bangs and whistles galore, with exciting comments from the children and the many young at heart looking on. Alistair was given a hearty three cheers for his wonderful display.

During the display our chef Jennie distributed hot dogs with mustard or ketchup accompanied by lots of cheerful smiles. So, full of hot dogs and bonhomie, our visitors departed and we, equally full of good cheer, settled contentedly for the rest of the evening, still recalling bygone times. Our thanks to Lynn and the team, not least to Alaister and Julie for the pumpkin display. It was a wonderful celebration. [contributed by Carol and Ray]

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December and Christmas In the next few weeks and apart from the usual activities, some of the residents will be helping to make decorations for the communal rooms and Christmas cards to send to their families and friends.

Our December programme is: 2nd December, we have a pantomime; Mother Goose this year.

10th December, we will all gather round the Christmas tree to sing Carols with Olivia Barry.

14th December will see the return of Juke Box Legends, who always seem able to bring Elvis along too.

16th December; we have a grand Christmas party with Sing-aLong Jim, when hopefully families and friends will join us.

And on Christmas Day, Father Christmas comes; we still have many chimneys for him to use!

In January, Ray will tell you how all these activities went.

Left: the new wing at Maycroft I have felt very privileged during this last year to share in all the excitement and a few setbacks, as the new buildings have begun to grow. By the time you receive this magazine almost all the external work should be complete. The internal work is being done in the worst of the weather. We are very fortunate in having one of the few care home companies, Advinia, operating in our village. They are prepared to build new homes rather than close them down. Life will be so much easier for residents, staff and visitors, as there will be more space and better modern facilities. Under the leadership of an excellent, highly experienced manager, I feel confident in saying that even when it is eventually doubled in size, the home will be a great asset to the community, especially to the elderly people and their families who live in the area.

Rosemary Childerley 19

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch This month, a warning about cold callers and some brief but timely advice about home security during the winter months.

Cold Callers Always be cautious of cold callers offering home services, e.g. window cleaning or hedge cutting. It is very easy to be pressurised into allowing someone to do some work for you, and an unexpectedly high bill may not be the only unpleasant surprise you get. ⇒ Always make sure you agree a price before the work starts. If you don't agree a price, you may find that you are expected to pay an unreasonable amount once the work is finished. ⇒ Don't be afraid to say no. If you feel uncomfortable or simply want time to think, ask them politely to leave. Don't allow yourself to be pressurised. If you do feel pressurised, than that's probably a good sign that something isn't right. ⇒ If you do agree to someone doing work for you, beware of possible distraction burglaries, particularly if there is more than one person. It doesn't take long for someone to slip into your house and steal some jewellery or bank cards; it could even happen while you are making a friendly cup of tea.

Burglaries Now that the clocks have gone back and the evenings are darker, the number of burglaries can rise. Cambridgeshire Police report that burglaries in the county during November 2016 to April 2017 were 17.8% higher than during May to October 2016. We are not immune from burglaries in Meldreth; keeping possessions out of sight and making it seem as if someone is at home are two good starting points for home security. ⇒ Close your blinds or curtains at night, preventing people from looking into your home. If your children are home first from school encourage them to close curtains and blinds. ⇒ Use timer switches. These can be linked to lighting or a radio, giving the impression that someone is at home.

For more information on Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Graham Borgonon on 01763 260358.

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch 20

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The Best Gifts for Your Pets this Christmas!

Pets are part of the family and at Christmas we often leave a gift for them under the tree. Some gifts are perfect but some can actually cause problems, so I thought a run down of the safe and not so safe things you can buy on the market, might be useful.

Food treats: a small amount of leftover turkey is the perfect gift for dogs and cats, but only give them cooked meat, no bones (risk of obstruction) or fatty pieces (risk of pancreatitis). Turkey is nutritious and delicious while also being very good for a sensitive digestion so your pets would love a piece but avoid feeding them foods they would not normally have as the last thing you need on Boxing Day is a squitty tummy!

Tennis balls: these are, in fact, absolutely terrible for dogs’ teeth. They are very abrasive and can cause the teeth to wear down, causing exposed pulp and pain. Please avoid tennis balls at all costs. In fact anything given to the dog to chew on should be softer than the tooth.

Kongs or Wubbas are perfect but please avoid Nylabones!

Antlers: giving antlers to chew can cause the most catastrophic slab fractures in teeth and vets have seen teeth in pieces after antler use.

Please avoid at all costs!

Ribbon: ribbon is great for cats to play with but only under supervision.

Cats have a habit of eating it and it can jumble up inside, requiring surgery to get it out.

Toys: try to choose suitably sized toys for your pet with no bits that can come off and get ingested. While we all love a bit of ‘sparkle’, it is not always easily digestible. Balls should be large enough so that if they are picked up, they are too large to get to the back of the mouth.

Laser lights: these are a fantastic interactive toy for your cat! Just don't shine them in their eyes.

Coats and costumes: it is always best to supervise your pet if you are dressing up your pet up this Christmas - even if they are wearing an elf suit! Their legs and mouths can get caught in pet clothing, so never leave them alone while they are wearing their outfit.

I hope that you have a wonderful festive season. See you in the New Year.

Jo Brown, RVN 22

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24

County Councillor’s Report The following report was presented at the Meldreth Parish Council Meeting on Thursday 2nd November.

North Herts Citizens Advice Bureau Our area is served by ‘North Herts and District’ CAB, who operate a free drop-in service at the Melbourn Hub and in Royston. I attended their AGM on 1st November. The CAB is an independent charity and provide hugely valuable basic advice to help people navigate through burdensome bureaucracy relating to basic rights and services, like housing, benefits, or dealing with immigration questions. The basic message from this year’s annual meeting was that need for advice is going up, and thankfully so is the number of volunteers coming forward.

Details for the most accessible service to Meldreth residents: There is a twice monthly drop-in service on the first and third Thursdays of the month from 9.30am to 12 noon at Melbourn Community Hub, 30 High Street, Melbourn, SG8 6DZ. There is also a drop-in service every week on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9.30am to 12 noon available at the Citizens Advice North Hertfordshire offices at Royston Town Hall, Melbourn Street, Royston, SG8 7DA. Speculative Application for 160 Homes in Cambridge Rd Melbourn South Cambs Planning officers were under pressure to bring this application to the November planning committee. However, there was a significant change in the application, with Meldreth rather than Foxton as the designated primary school. Melbourn Primary cannot expand beyond what is underway to accommodate the significant influx of approved speculative housing development (199 homes in New Road). Foxton School would require bus transport. Given that Meldreth hasn’t had the opportunity to consider the change, which would have a significant impact in highways terms, I asked for this be delayed.

Children’s Centre Closures The decision to remove £900K spending has now been taken, supported only by the council’s ruling group. Melbourn Children’s Centre services could function well if offered at a consistent time and venue, but details have not been sorted. As a representative also of Bassingbourn, which 25

will experience a deep loss of service, has no alternative suitable venue and no public transport links, I could not support the proposal – and there are many examples similar to Bassingbourn throughout the county. I would also heed the advice of the many senior professionals who addressed the County Council on the dangers of the proposal. The ruling group argued that the cuts are necessary and will result in a better service, but could not provide details. It must be understood that the Council’s policy of freezing council tax is almost unique in the country, and has worsened its ability to fund public services. Children’s Centre cuts follow the most recent freeze.

County Council Area Champions Following my report to you last month I posed a formal question to the council: ‘Why have I not yet heard from my Area Champion?’ The formal response is on the Council website under Council meeting agenda, October 17, item 16b. The informal response I received from the chairman of the new ‘Communities and Partnerships’ Committee, who created the Area Champion roles, alluded to his personal need for greater remuneration to justify his workload. He now receives £18,372 per annum just to chair the new committee on which the five Area Champions sit, each paid a Special Responsibility Allowance of £5000.

The vice chair is paid £7927. This is now the council’s most costly committee to convene and the value it brings is not clear.

New Tubs at Meldreth Station New weather-proof tubs have now been installed and planted, thanks to a grant from the Association of Community Rail Partnerships.

Thanks to the Meldreth and Melbourn gardening volunteers who waited patiently for two weeks for Network Rail to install the tubs, for Great Northern’s help, and to Phillimore Garden Centre for organising all of their contents.

Eight-Car Trains From November While the new Thameslink timetable doesn’t come into force until December 2018, new eight-car trains will begin running later this month, gradually working their way to standard. Due to extensions to the Cambridge bound platforms at Shepreth and Foxton, all trains at Meldreth will have selective door opening, as will south-bound trains at Shepreth and Foxton. We are told that this will be clearly announced by visual display and verbal announcements. The design will be a metro tube style, with advantages and disadvantages.

26

Public Inquiry, Proposed Level Crossing Closure – to note County Council Rights of Way officers and lawyers are being deployed to fight Network Rail in the public inquiry starting later this month. It is hard to escape the irony that one cash-strapped public body, the County Council, is spending precious resource defending public rights of way against another public body, which didn’t have enough funding to extend platforms on both sides of the tracks at Shepreth and Foxton, and not at all at Meldreth.

Susan van de Ven County Councillor Susanvandeven5@gmail.com 07905 325574

Monthly Drop-in Councillor Advice Surgery We hold a regular advice surgery at the Melbourn Hub on the first Monday of the month from 3.00-4.00pm.

Susan is also at The Limes Community Room, High Street Bassingbourn, next to Hattie’s café and the village shop, every third Monday, from 3.00-4.00pm.

Alternatively, please contact us any time and we will always do our best to help.

Philippa Hart, District Councillor philippajhart@btinternet.com, (01763) 261255 Susan van de Ven, County Councillor susanvandeven5@gmail.com, 07905 325574

Cam Vale Bus Users Group Our next meeting will be on 4th December, from 7.30-9.00pm at The Limes Community Centre, High Street, Bassingbourn.

The bus operator, the County Council and Royston and District Community Transport are all expected to attend. Lifts are being arranged for anyone who’d like to come, so please let me know if you’d like one.

Susan van de Ven 07905 325574 Susanvandeven5@gmail.com 27

Citizen’s Advice Poem-a-thon One of the best meetings I attend is the North Herts and District Citizens Advice Bureau AGM. Invariably I learn something that casts light on one of the difficult questions that come our way as councillors.

The CAB is independent of local authorities, though I think it’s fair to say that councils depend on charities like the CAB to provide what is often life-changing practical advice for local people – and sadly, are sometimes stymied by the fact that struggling councils can’t help to the extent people rightly expect them to.

As part of their fundraising efforts this year, the CAB organized a Poem -a-thon. I wasn’t able to attend on the day, so couldn’t take part. The idea was for each person to seek to raise £50 in sponsorships, and to recite by heart something they’d composed themselves, as embarrassing as this might be. I have still done my bit to attempt a rhyme, so if you feel inclined to make a donation to the North Herts and District CAB, please do! https://www.northhertscab.org.uk/ (click on ‘donate’ at the bottom of the home page) or ring 03444 111 444.

My official reports can be boring.

Do you fall off your chair a-snoring?

I’ve decided this time To put it in rhyme.

Though risky to leave my mooring!

Let’s talk first about trains.

Still nowhere to stand when rains!

It’s a wonderful station, The best in the nation.

Yet this unfinished job still remains.

Our bus is back to ‘alright’ Though we’d like it to run at night.

It needs to be full To give us some pull.

So please run alongside and alight!

Our roads are so full of holes, Invaded by industrial moles?

Pavements are broken, Drains are a-soakin’, In spite of our council tax tolls.

28

And the council keeps making more cuts, Worry lines turning to ruts.

I can’t see good reason – Could it be treason?

Want to say more than tut tuts.

In spite of hard times we can smile, For those going the extra mile.

In the end that’s the thing That makes people sing.

So if you need help, please dial!

And if you’d like more information, Please meet me down at the station.

Or drop me a line.

Phone calls are fine.

Happy to chat any time.

Susan van de Ven County Councillor

29

Volunteering Opportunities Cambridge Past, Present and Future Did you know, a great way to become healthier and happier is to volunteer?

Combine this with working outdoors with nature and you have a recipe for a better life.

Volunteers are essential to our work.

Our next volunteer working party will be at Coton Countryside Reserve on Wednesday 13th December from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Enjoy fresh air and exercise while learning how to manage young woodlands. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and tough shoes, and bring a packed lunch and drink. All instruction, equipment and tools provided. Meet at Coton Reserve notice board near the car park.

For further information on volunteering with us see https://www.cambridgeppf.org/get-involved/#getinvolvedvolunteer.

Be involved. Be healthy. Be happy!

Cambridgeshire Police Volunteers are playing an increasingly important role alongside their uniformed colleagues within local policing. There are currently more than 38,000 people working in over 200 different volunteering roles across the 43 Forces. In 2016, it is estimated volunteers across England and Wales donated over five million hours.

Our ‘Step-Up’ campaign is about raising awareness of the exciting and numerous opportunities available, which range from cyber-related and hostage negotiation roles through to animal welfare and victim support posts. Our message is simple: with over 200 different roles, there’s something for everyone, regardless of your age, gender or skills set.

For more information see the new Citizens In Policing website: https://www.citizensinpolicing.net.

30

Volunteering Opportunities

31

Meldreth Village Monday School term ends on Tuesday 19th December

Tuesday

Wednesday

The copy deadline for the January issue of Meldreth Matters is Tuesday 12th Decembe

To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow Issuu: https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters

9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group

10.00am-12.00 Handbells

7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics

6.00-7.00 Brownies

8.00-9.00pm Strutology

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis 7.30pm Paris

7.00-10.00pm Crafters 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

Thur

9.15am Cycling Group 9.15-11.15am Baby & 10.00am-12.00 Handbells Toddler Group 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 8.00-9.00pm Strutology

2.00pm Goo Companions

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.40-11.30am Library 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00pm Carol Singing BQ 8.00-9.00pm Strutology 8.00pm Prayer Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.30pm WI

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

10.00am Family Communion for Christmas Day

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 ‘Coffee Break’ mornings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Brownie room. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the lay-by oppos 32

Diary - December

sday

er

Friday 1.00pm Elin Way Lunch Club

Saturday 11.00am - 5.00pm Christmas Tree Festival 10.30am - 12 noon Community Coffee Break

w us on

m Fitness

7.30pm Sleeping Beauty Pantomime (see page 47)

10.00am Veg Club Plus Meeting, 45 North End

m Table

8.30-11.00pm Live Rock Music, Eternit Sports & Social Club (see page 2)

2.00pm Sleeping Beauty Pantomime

h Council

d

m Fitness

Sunday 8.00am Holy Communion 11.00am - 4.00pm Tea Dance 11.00am - 5.00pm Christmas Tree Festival 5.30pm Advent Service 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ 8.00am Holy Communion 2.00pm Sleeping Beauty Pantomime (see page 47) 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

7.30pm Sleeping Beauty Pantomime (see page 47) 11.00am - 4.00pm National Fancy Rat Society Show

9.45am Family Communion 4.00pm Carol Service 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

m Fitness

8.00am Holy Communion 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

m Table

m Fitness

9.45am Family Communion

m Table

5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

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 Monthly Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 2nd Nov 2017 in Meldreth Village Hall.

Present: Councillor R Goddin - Chairman, Councillor N Pellatt – Vice Chairman, Councillor J Fallon, Councillor R James, Councillor Keena, Councillor C A Land, Councillor D Lee, Councillor R A Searles and Councillor A Young In attendance: J Damant (Clerk); Councillor S van de Ven (CCC), Councillor P Hart (SCDC) Apologies for absence: none.

Public participation: Five members of the public were in attendance.

There were representations on the progress and communication of the future of Mettle Hill and an appeal for ideas and contributions to the Meldreth Parish Map. This is a community inspired project led by Mrs P Gilmore to provide a public resource for local facilities, amenities and resources. Anyone with suggestions or contributions are asked to contact the Parish Clerk in the first instance.

Report from District Councillor The report was noted. See page 54.

Report from County Councillor See pages 25-27.

These reports led to a discussion of the impact that developments in Melbourn can have on village life and resources in Meldreth. For example, the additional Meldreth Primary School places provided by the education authority could be filled by new proposals for another substantial residential development in Melbourn. In addition, the need to improve pedestrian and traffic safety in and around the station / road bridge was discussed and identified as a high priority for action.

Progress on the development of the Parish owned Mettle Hill (former travelers site) was outlined, the Parish Council remain committed to making the best use of this asset for the community and deliver on the sentiments expressed in the village questionnaire. Extensive pre34

planning work has been completed by the Mettle Hill Working Group which will provide a fully developed proposal to the Parish Council in the near future.

Tennis Courts In line with the parish contribution to the refurbishment of the tennis courts the facilities are to be made available to member of the village.

The booking system for this access will, initially, be operated from the British Queen. Anyone wishing to use the open court needs to apply to the British Queen for a ticket.

Proposed Closure of the Railway Crossing on Footpath 10 The public inquiry into the closure of the ‘Fieldgate’ crossing will start in late November at Bar Hill and last for approximately one month.

Councillor James has provided the documentary evidence against closure and this, together with other representations, will be heard in early December.

Church Wall Repairs An outline specification for the required work has been received and we are now in the process of collecting commercial tenders for the work.

The likely cost is significant (we think in 5 figures!) and before we commit to expenditure on this scale we are checking the Parish liabilities and contributions of the Parish and others for the repair costs.

Meldreth Futures Working Group The discussion was on the enthusiasm for a community led plan. Some ten years ago a major project for Meldreth led to the development of the Parish Plan, which is still available at http://www.meldrethpc.org.uk/parish-plan/. This was well received, it helped the council contain ‘out of character’ development proposals and has been a valuable source of information for life in Meldreth.

Since 2011 and the development of the Localism Act, Parish Councils have a designated role in the developments of their communities and these ‘blueprints’ are enshrined in the Community Led Plan (CLP) which provides the basis for the Neighbourhood Plan (NP). Both items represent significant amounts of work with the CLP providing the basis for the NP which is primarily focused on planning.

Members of the Council and the Futures Working Group attended a presentation by Cambridge Action within Rural Communities in England (ACRE) which explained the schemes and the help available in developing the plan.

35

The topic of publishing a CLP and NP for Meldreth will be revisited by the council early in 2018 once a better view of the benefits of producing these plans, the effort required to deliver them and particularly who will help have been identified. If we proceed we will make efforts to engage widely with the village, both to hear your views but also to enlist your help. Anyone interested in helping at this early stage is asked to contact the Parish Clerk.

Review of Parish Council IT A full report was presented by Councillor Young for the complete overhaul of the IT facilities used in the Parish Council Office. The need for a technology refresh to improve the working conditions for the Parish Clerk was unanimously endorsed. An outline proposal will be sent for tender to replace the main PC, to improve the ergonomics of the workstation and seating, to introduce cloud based storage facilities and for a re-vamp of the Parish Council website. At the same time the paper filing system will be cleared out, important material archived and the remainder classified and tidied up.

South Cambs Boundary Changes The third round of the proposal boundary changes have been published which now propose that Meldreth, together with Melbourn, is made part of the Royston & Letchworth constituency. The Parish Council discussed this and identified clear difficulties of the tiers of representation being out of step; much of the representation for planning and development remaining in Cambridge but the Parliamentary representation as part of Hertfordshire.

The current, final, proposals are open for public response and elsewhere in Meldreth Matters we have a fuller description and a call for people in Meldreth to make their views heard (pages 6-7).

The next meeting of the Parish Council will take place on Thursday 7th December 2017 at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall.

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 boards, opposite the One Stop Shop and at the corner of Elin Way and Whitecroft Road.

36

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 Mrs C J Fallon

(01763) 262822

parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk 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

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38

Church Matters Peter Chilvers reached a landmark this year having retired from the role of PCC Treasurer after 42 years.

In recognition of his contribution, Peter and Bridget were invited to a Garden Party in Ely last June hosted by the Bishop of Huntingdon.

To mark his achievement Peter was recently thanked by our Priest in Charge Lizzie Shipp for his long service dealing with intricacies of church finance and presented with a certificate signed by the Bishop of Huntingdon.

John Price

Joint Parish Prayer Group The Prayer Group will be meeting on Tuesday 19th December at 8.00pm at 85 North End, Meldreth. We welcome you at this busy time of year for a time of quiet meditation and prayer. Please join us if you can.

Marion Long (01763) 261365

New to the village?

Information on village facilities and over 30 local groups is available at

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk 39

Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk “Cambridge University Past and Present”, 27th October The Meeting Room was full to hear Dr Brian Cox’s talk which gave an interesting insight into the university over the years and was thoroughly enjoyed by all present.

In almost 50 years the university has changed significantly, increasing from 10,000 to 20,000 students, with the number of men reducing slightly. Notably, the number of women has grown five fold, while the number of postgraduates has risen form virtually nothing to 7,000 over this period. Another aspect of change in recent years is the cost of housing which has driven lecturing staff further and further out and in turn has had an effect on college life.

Brian showed some interesting pictures. of the c.1450 University Chest with its five padlocks and keyholders and a Junior Proctor’s Book with chains and bosses for protection, which was last used in the 1780s.

The photograph on the left shows Cuthbert Lempriere Holthouse, the last person to be awarded the Wooden Spoon in 1909, having achieved the lowest marks in the Mathematics Tripos Exams, although he did pass.

Brian has prepared a summary of his talk which can viewed on our website at www.foht.org.uk

Forthcoming Events: 27th January 2018 - Annual Supper Tickets will be on sale in the New Year.

February/March 2018 To be confirmed. Unfortunately it will not be possible to hold the Saffron talk as a suitable date cannot be found for the speaker.

John Price 40

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Meldreth Preschool www.meldrethpreschool.com In the run-up to Christmas, the children have been very busy preparing for the big day and learning about the story of the festive season. Our older children are still exploring the woods every week and enjoy the chance to chart the progress of the seasons as they walk through the fallen leaves and try to spot robins in the trees. Christmas preparations are in progress as well.

The children have also enjoyed a visit from Mandy from Tesco in Royston, who came as part of their Farm to Fork programme. The children learned where their food comes from, how the plants and crops we see in the fields end up on our plates and lots of useful information about how to keep their bodies healthy by eating a range of foods. As a healthy-eating preschool it is important to us that we help the children to develop good eating habits, so we really appreciated Mandy’s help and hope that the children will continue to try new foods.

We have also been overwhelmed by the support of the local community in our fundraising efforts. The shopping evening held at the beginning of November raised over ÂŁ600 which will be used to update and improve the technology available to the children in the preschool, including buying cameras for them to use to chart their daily lives.

Thank you to everyone who came along and made a start on their Christmas shopping, to the stallholders who provided such an impressive array of festive gift and decoration ideas and to the staff for working so hard to make it all a success.

The preschool also held its AGM in November, where we discussed the plans for the impending move to the Primary School. Members of the committee and management team have met with the planners and the school to discuss the new room and with less than a year to go things are getting exciting. We will be updating all the preschool users with details of the plans as we get them, but parents and carers who want to know more are welcome to speak to the staff at any point.

As usually happens at this time of year, places in the preschool are filling up, so we advise anyone who would like a space for their child to get in touch as soon as possible in order to ensure that we are able to 42

offer the hours they want. We cater to children from 2 until they start school, so it’s the perfect way to kickstart your child’s learning journey.

You can call us on 07518 173653 or contact us on the following email addresses to book a visit: Administrator@MeldrethPreschool.com Manager@MeldrethPreschool.com to book a visit.

Meldreth Preschool

Poetry Matters Winter’s Ways Darkness settles over the virgin snow, Enhancing twilight with a quiet glow.

A muffled world breathes silently, Time freezes, caught inadvertently.

Winter’s inroad lays its claim, Smoothing out the rutted lane, Opening the way for new born tracks: First footfall, imprint of tentative acts.

A tableau caught in black and white: Fence posts, telephone poles, stark in the night.

Winter covers our summer dreams Unrolling a pathway in snowy reams.

Nature in purity awaits violation By human, bird or animal, Earth’s population.

Upon us now the winter of the soul; A time for closure, a time to make whole.

By Yvonne Chamberlain

43

Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Awesome Ancient Egypt – Our Autumn Term Topic Taking one hundred Key Stage 2 children back in history to the time of the Ancient Egyptians, can prove a little tricky. Those under 11 years old generally believe that the TARDIS would be hard pushed to get ALL the way back in time to the 1980’s, let alone to 5,000 years ago when Tutankhamun lived in opulent style. So, how truly lucky we are that a mere 11 minutes on the train - and a super-speedy walk through the hallowed streets of Cambridge - and you arrive at the incredible Fitzwilliam Museum. Tardis be damned! This exceptional learning institution makes our job a cinch! It brings to life this ancient civilisation with astonishing artefacts from thousands of years ago (and those do not include me, contrary to the children’s beliefs!). Now, it’s all well and good me extolling the virtues of the Fitzwilliam, but the proof is in the pudding, as they say. So, what did Woodpecker Class reply when I asked, “What did you learn and love at the Fitzwilliam?”

Their responses (all written without any prompt or support) read like an advertisement and confirm the value of learning out of the classroom.

Sally Willan Woodpecker Class Teacher The Fitzwilliam was one of the best places I’ve ever been to in my life.

Our guide was called Jacqui. She told us plenty of amazing facts about the Ancient Egyptians and their incredible beliefs. One of the most memorable things she showed us was Ramesses III’s seven tonne sarcophagus. It had Ancient Egyptian writing (hieroglyphs) down the side and back of the outer lid.

Cuan They had amazing artefacts and an awesome tour guide (called Jacqui) who knew loads. Before I went there, I didn’t know that they mummified crocodiles or that if you died and your heart was heavier than The Feather of Truth and Justice, your heart was snatched and gobbled up by Sobek and your body was given to Seth. They believed that if your heart was heavier, you’d done lots of bad things in your life!

Annabelle 44

The great thing about the carved sarcophagus lid of Ramesses III, an old Pharaoh, was that it was not a replica! In the final room there was also a mummy – a real life one!

Elias One of the most amazing things I discovered was that they took the mummy and x-rayed it at Addenbrookes.

They found out that all the organs were actually still in there!!!

Emma B In the Egyptian room, there, boldly stood Ramesses III’s sarcophagus.

It was huge! Jacqui explained that Ancient Egyptian sarcophagus’ were designed like Russian dolls.

They had several more layers of sarcophagus’ inside, until you were finally left with the mummy!

Emma D Being surrounded by 3000 year old things was totally surreal! My favourite part was the little box of slaves to be taken to the afterlife. I was awestruck by how they had carved the miniscule pieces of stone each into a slave and they remained that way for so long!

Gracie Overall, the Ancient Egyptian artefacts were truly magnificent and were all originals from the actual time of this amazing civilisation.

Somehow, a real Egyptian mummy has survived 3000 years and should survive for even longer. They x-rayed the mummy and the signs showed that the person had lived for about 35 years. We were lead through the Egyptian exhibits by a helpful, welcoming guide called Jacqui. If there was no time limit, I’d have stayed even longer as there were so many artefacts to get carried away by.

Alex Meldreth Primary School 45

What’s On for Children and Families in December These events are taking place in the local area. For Meldreth events, please see pages 2-3.

Saturday 2nd December, 11.00am – 3.00pm Tree Dressing Day, Botanic Gardens, Cambridge CB2 1JE Celebrate trees! Make decorations for your tree and a tree in the garden.

Free, drop-in event. Normal admission for adults (£5.50).

Friday 15th – Saturday 23rd December, 4.30pm – 9.00pm Enchanted Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF Explore the grounds - a fairy-tale of light, colour and sound with music, shadow puppets, entertainers, mince pies and mulled wine, shopping and more. Adults £12, 5 – 15 years £7.50, families £31.60.

Book online at english-heritage.org.uk.

Saturday 16th December, 3.00 and 5.00pm Prime Brass Family Christmas Cushion Concert Stapleford Granary, Bury Road, Stapleford CB22 5BP Festive music. Children especially welcome – bring a cushion to sit on and dress up (adults too!) Adults £15, under 16s £8. Book online at staplefordgranary.org.uk. Ring (01223) 849004 for more details.

Sunday 17th December, 11.00am – 4.00pm Children’s Christmas Crafts Wandlebury Country Park, Babraham CB22 3AE Make rustic decorations using natural materials from the park. Drop-in event. £10 per family. For information see: www.cambridgeppf.org.

Wednesday 20th and Friday 22nd December, 10.00am – 5.00pm An Exceptionally Elfy Christmas Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1LF Become an elf and help in Santa’s workshop. Lots of festive goodies to take home. Children £3, adults £4, families £12.

Book at: www.vivacity-peterborough.com.

Saturday 30th December to Monday 1st January, from 10.00am Winter Warmer Mince Pie Specials Nene Valley Railway, Stibbington, Peterborough PE8 6LR Take a steam train trip, enjoy seasonal refreshments. Tickets adults £16, seniors £13, children £8, families £40; www.nvr.org.uk.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 46

47

Local Events in December Here is a selection of events happening nearby this month.

Until Friday 29th December, during normal opening hours ‘A Sense of Place’ at The Plough, High Street, Shepreth SG8 6PP The Plough’s latest art exhibition with works by Jon Harris, Joe Dean, Katy Bailey, Sam Harris, Sheena Davies and Hatty Richmond. More information available by emailing: art@theploughshepreth.co.uk.

From Saturday 2nd December, various dates and times Festive Forties at Bletchley Park Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK3 6EB Range of Forties-themed activities including live music and dancing, historical displays, festive afternoon teas and many more attractions. For events programme and to book visit: www.bletchleypark.org.uk.

Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December, 10.00am to 5.00pm Grantchester Christmas Art and Craft Show Village Hall, High Street, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 7NF Fifteen local artists and designer-makers show their hand-made work including jewellery, painting, wood turning, ceramics, glass and textiles.

Treat yourself or pick up a unique present or two. Free admission, seasonal refreshments, ample parking and disabled access.

Saturdays 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd December, 1.30pm to 3.30pm Christmas Wreath Making Workshop Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Cambridgeshire SG8 0BW Make your own decorative wreath with expert guidance from members of the gardening team. All materials provided but bring your secateurs.

Participants must be 16 plus. Normal admission applies to non-National Trust members. Booking essential on 0344 2491895.

Sunday 3rd December, 10.00am to 4.00pm Great Chishill Antiques and Vintage Fair Village Hall, Hall Lane, Great Chishill, Cambridgeshire SG8 8SH 20 stalls packed with antiques, collectables and vintage items. Tearoom with home-made refreshments. Tickets £1 for over 18s, at the door.

Sunday 3rd December, performance 6.30-8.30pm Rocking the Chapel, Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge General concert admission, £18 including refreshments.

See www.each.org.uk or telephone Alan on (01223) 874689.

In aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

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Tuesday 5th December, 12.15pm to 2.15pm Christmas Literary Lunch, Old Bull Inn, Royston SG8 9AW Buffet lunch, chat and questions with Emma Bennett and others (featured in Cambridge Art Book) hosted by Jude Simpson. Tickets £15, call (01763) 262262 or email admin@hsrsc.co.uk. Proceeds in aid of Home-Start Royston and South Cambs.

Saturday 9th to Sunday 17th December, 11.00am to 4.00pm A Christmas Celebration Peckover House and Garden, North Brink, Wisbech, PE13 1JR Selected rooms decorated with festive floral arrangements, music by local choirs, musicians. Mulled wine and mince pies in Reed Barn. Free but normal admission charges apply to non-National Trust members.

Saturday 9th December, 7.30pm Orwell Singers Christmas Concert Orwell Village Hall, High Street, Orwell SG8 5QN Seasonal music old and new, starting with a rousing medley from West Side Story. Tickets £10 from Orwell Post Office or David Smith on (01763) 260378; includes a Christmas buffet. Licensed bar.

Saturday 16th December, 7.30pm ‘Yuletide 2017’, presented by Royston and District Choral Society Royston Parish Church, Melbourn Street, Royston SG8 7BP A feast of Christmas music with something to suit every taste plus audience carols, mince pies and mulled wine. Tickets £12 (concessions £9, school students £1) - Caroline Franks on (01920) 822723; email: caroline.franks@rft52.co.uk; or online at https://bit/ly/RCSDec2017.

Sunday 17th December, 6.30pm to 8.00pm Christmas Carols at the Leper Chapel Barnwell Junction, Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8JJ Carols by candlelight led by Dr Roger Williams and the Cottenham Brass Band. Festive refreshments will be served. Free; donations to support the upkeep of the chapel welcomed.

Friday 29th December, 10.00am to 1.00pm Midwinter Wildlife Walk, Roswell Pits and River Great Ouse Meet Ely Cathedral Car Park, Barton Road, Ely Work off some of those extra calories with a Wildlife Trust guided walk to see what winter wildlife can be found – bittern, goosander and kingfisher among previous highlights. Stout footwear and warm clothing recommended. Contact Will Burdett on (01353) 661339.

49

Compiled by John Crawforth

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MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL 50

Charity Burns Night Supper Saturday, 20th January 7.00 p.m.

Village Hall, Green End, Comberton

The event is jointly hosted by the NSPCC and ACTS Charities.

Three-course traditional Burns supper with wines and a wee dram Poetry and speeches, followed by Scottish folk dancing.

Tickets are ÂŁ50 per person and include the meal and drinks, and dancing to a live band. Individual bookings are welcome, and there are tables available if you wish to put a private grouping together. This event is known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere.

Email bookings will be accepted. cfm.armstrong@gmail.com Tel: 01954 719745 Kate Armstrong NSPCC Cambridgeshire Branch

Refuse Collections Collections in December will be on the following dates: Black bins: 12th, 28th* Blue bins: 5th, 19th Green bins: 19th * late collection due to public holidays Paper caddies will continue to be collected up to Friday 8th December 2017. From Monday 11th December, they will no longer be collected and from that date paper should be placed directly into the blue bin.

51

Kathryn Betts Editor

News From Heidi Allen www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk Welcome to my latest newsletter: lots has been happening since I last wrote!

Many of you will be aware of the plans from Uttlesford District Council to create North Uttlesford Garden Community which, if permitted, could have an adverse impact on the southern part of the constituency.

I am worried these plans may negatively impact on us by significantly increasing congestion. I have submitted my views to Uttlesford District Council and will continue to keep residents aware of developments as they occur.

You will know there are plans to reduce the number of MPs from 650 to 600, so that each constituency has a similar number of electors and the Boundary Commission has now published their revised proposed boundaries for South Cambridgeshire. I was bitterly disappointed to read that their proposals see South Cambridgeshire losing the wards of the Mordens, Bassingbourn, Melbourn and Meldreth. The Boundary Commission’s report on the previous consultation acknowledged that I had put forward a counter proposal which had garnered significant public support and that most responses received generally opposed their suggestion. However, they still felt these Cambridgeshire villages should be moved to sit under a Hertfordshire regional authority, in spite of acknowledged strong local ties to the area. I will be challenging these proposals again. If you agree that these villages should be retained in South Cambridgeshire rather than transferred to a Hertfordshire constituency, you can comment until the 11th December.

Please see my website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/campaigns/ boundary-commission-stage-two-consultation for details of my opposition strategy and how to join in the consultation.

[Ed: See also pages 6-7, 36 and 54 in this issue.]

The Department for Transport has launched a consultation on accessibility issues for disabled people using public transport. I have been working with local and national groups to bring about improvements for disabled people. BBC Look East kindly filmed a piece for me at Whittlesford station, demonstrating issues disabled people face when there is no lift connecting the platforms.

You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=yahDBM6qB5w&feature=youtu.be.

52

South Cambridgeshire District Council have coincidentally launched a consultation on taxi licensing which aims to provide more stringent standards. The Council is proposing to introduce a policy requiring all hackney carriages to be wheelchair accessible vehicles. This important consultation closes on 5th January 2018. You can find details here: www.scambs.gov.uk/consultations.

It is always a pleasure to visit schools in my constituency and at the beginning of October, I was grilled by the Perse Pelican’s Mini Parliament! If you are a teacher or a governor of a local school and would like to arrange a visit, please do get in touch.

My next surgery will be on Saturday 16th December from 10.00am to midday at Gamlingay Village College, Station Road, Gamlingay SG19 3HD. No appointment is necessary. Details of all the upcoming surgeries can be found on my website. You’ll also find further information about my work and news stories there. To contact me, please email heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk. You can also telephone my Westminster Office on 020 7219 5091 about national issues or my constituency office on (01223) 830 037 to raise local concerns.

Heidi Allen, MP

Good Companions Our November get together was for the Club’s anniversary meal, which takes place to celebrate the first ever meeting of Good Companions.

We can make life a little easier Local Community Services at Moorlands Court

Day Centre

We all met for lunch at The British Queen, had a lovely time and really enjoyed the food superb as always. Thank you to Bex and the chef for looking after us all so well, even though they were short staffed.

Our friendly day centre is open from 10 am to 3 pm, Tuesdays to Fridays.

Interesting activities, sociable atmosphere, home cooked lunch.

Transport available for older people living in Melbourn and nearby villages.

From just £7.90 per day.

The next meeting will be our Christmas Party on 14th December.

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

Good Companions 53

District Councillor’s Report Parliamentary Constituency Boundary Change Proposals Meldreth in a New Royston and Letchworth Constituency?

HAVE YOUR SAY! Proposed changes to parliamentary boundaries have been refined again, following a decision by the government to reduce the number of constituencies in the UK from 650 to 600 and to ensure that the number of electors in each constituency is equal. An initial 12-week consultation by the Boundary Commission for England was held in autumn last year.

In the second round earlier this year, Bassingbourn, Melbourn, The Mordens, Shingay, Wendy, Whaddon, Abington Pigotts and Tadlow – all in MP Heidi Allen’s South Cambs constituency – were possible movers to Sir Oliver Heald’s North East Herts constituency. The third consultation opened on Tuesday, with Meldreth and Shepreth added to the list for the neighbouring constituency – which would be renamed Letchworth and Royston. The villages north, including Foxton and Barrington, would remain in the South Cambs constituency. You can view the proposals here:https://www.bce2018.org.uk/.

PLEASE NOTE: for local government, Meldreth would remain within the boundaries of South Cambridgeshire District Council and Cambridgeshire County Councils.

If you have an opinion on these proposals, you have until 11th December to have your say at www.bce2018.org.uk. Commissioners will then decide on their final recommendations before submitting them to parliament in September 2018.

[Editor: see the Parish Council’s article on pages 6-7 for further details.]

Combined Authority Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s Mayor, James Palmer, has published his 100 Day Plan “Summary of Completed Commitments” which you may like to read; follow this link http:// cambridgeshirepeterborough-ca.gov.uk/assets/Mayor/100-Day-PlanFinal-Review.pdf.

Councillor Philippa Hart Meldreth and Shepreth Ward philippajhart@btinternet.com 07811 323571 54

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55

Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address

Detail

Parish Council Recommend

4 Stone Lane S/3722/17/FL

Proposed alterations and extension

The amendments are mainly cosmetic.

There is a change in the tiles which are being replaced with slate. The Parish Council recommend 'support' with no comments. Councillor Searles abstained.

Bury Lane S/3544/17/VC

Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) of planning permission S/2655/16/FL

The Parish Council recommend 'support' with comments. 'To be no retail use and restricted to growing purposes only'. Councillor Young abstained as he had not seen the plans

86a High Street Single storey rear (New extension application) S/3770/17/FL

Parish Council recommend 'support' with no comments.

114 High Street A full arboriculture The Parish Council agreed that the Tree S/3759/17/TP survey has been Warden's report be sent to the Tree carried out on the Officer at SCDC site with recommended works The full minutes of Meldreth Parish Council planning meetings are available on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

SCDC Decisions Reference and Address

Decision

Meldreth Primary School S/0244/17/CC

Development of the existing 171 place primary school.

This planning application was determined under delegated powers on 18th October 2017 and planning permission has been granted subject to conditions.

56

Other items: S/3164/17/PA, 86a High Street – Prior approval for a single storey rear extension has been withdrawn.

Railway Close: Residents at Railway Close have concerns that the required ground works have not been fully met by the developers and wish to carry out the works themselves. It was felt that SCDC need to be informed in the first instance. It is recommended that the residents contact the Planning Enforcement Officer at SCDC. Clerk had no further information to report.

Meldreth Parish Council Editor’s Note: Full details of all planning applications may be viewed at this website: http://plan.scambs.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/wphappcriteria.display

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme

Now operating in Meldreth Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour?

What are our Services?

The wardens make regular visits and telephone calls to provide social contact and friendship. They help people to keep safe and healthy in their homes and carry out errands around the villages for their clients, including shopping, collecting prescriptions and paying bills. Wardens assist clients to access other support they may need such as domestic help, home maintenance , meals or benefits etc.

What will it cost?

We do have to make a small weekly charge for the services. The fee is only £6 per week (a little more for couples).

How can I join?

For more information please contact Jeannie on 07808 735066 or Jane on 07592 821976.

Melbourn Warden Scheme is a registered charity 57

Little Hands Nursery School The Moor, Melbourn

Little Hands is a Private Nursery School specialising in quality education for the under fives and offers: 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” 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

• All aspects of tree work undertaken • Ground & Garden Maintenance.

• Garden & Site Clearance.

• Fencing. Turf Laying & More.

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

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58

How Much Can You Make from a £50 Investment?

Could your business or organisation beat the rest, by growing a £50 investment?

Cambridge’s Hospice is looking for fine community-minded businesses to take part in the Accumulator Challenge, sponsored by ARM. The exciting initiative challenges you to put on your thinking cap, employ your best entrepreneurial spirit and raise as much money as possible for the Hospice’s vital care… and all from an initial £50 investment!

Until Sunday 31st December 2017, teams can invest as much ingenuity and time as they wish to grow the £50: current champions of the Accumulator Challenge, Quy Mill Hotel & Spa managed to reach the lofty heights of £4250 in 2015 though activities such as bauble making competitions, raffles at Christmas parties and lunch with Santa!

The Hospice is still working hard to raise the remaining £2 million needed for its £10.5 million state-of-the-art home at Shelford Bottom, which it moved into in November last year. Alongside this target, as an independent hospice it must also secure £7.45 million every year to deliver its vital care and services, free of charge, to those living with a life-limiting illness in Cambridgeshire.

Since the Accumulator Challenge first launched in 2012, 67 teams have taken part and an incredible £52,112 has been raised by those growing their initial £50 loan.

To sign up for the Accumulator Challenge or discover more about taking part please get in touch with corporate fundraiser Andrea Murauskas at the Arthur Rank Hospice on (01223) 675883, or email Andrea.Murauskas@arhc.org.uk.

Dawn Easby PR and Communications Officer Arthur Rank Hospice Charity 59

Fire & Rescue Service www.cambsfire.gov.uk It is the time of year when we’re enjoying a tipple with friends, cooking up festive feasts for the family and entertaining loved ones. With all the fun to be had it is easy to be distracted when cooking in the kitchen.

Fifty per cent of all fires in the home start in the kitchen and more than half of those are as a result of distraction whilst cooking. We want to help ensure your festive cheer doesn’t go up in smoke this Christmas by sharing our tips below for safe cooking over the festive season: ⇒

Never leave cooking unattended

⇒

Do not cook when tired or when under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication that make you drowsy

⇒

Regularly clean the grill pan and oven. Built up fat can easily catch fire.

⇒

Do not leave anything flammable on or near the hob – tea towels, oven gloves and even washing baskets can catch fire.

⇒

Take care when using microwaves. Fires can start when people put food in too long. Always read the instructions on the packet.

⇒

If you use a chip pan, do not fill it more than one third full with fat and turn the heat down if the oil starts smoking.

⇒

Regularly maintain dishwashers, washing machines and dryers and never leave them on if you go out or when you go to bed.

⇒

Have a working smoke alarm on each floor of your home.

⇒

Never take the batteries out of your smoke alarm.

⇒

If you do have a fire in the house, get out, stay out and dial 999.

For more information, or to get in touch, firefire@cambsfire.gov.uk or on 0800 9179994.

contact

us

at

Cambridge Fire & Rescue Service

60

Make a difference at an Outstanding Service Support Workers and Learning Support Assistants – £16,731 - £17,745 p.a.

Other vacancies also available

If you want a career you can be passionate about and not just a job then talk to us!

We’re looking for caring people who want to make a difference to join our team and support the truly amazing young people we work with.

Training provided, no previous experience necessary but a bonus if you do.

Call to us today on 020 3617 0186 or 01763 268000 or visit www.the-aurora-group.com/careers.

ETERNIT SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB 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

61

Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358 (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Sherida Richards—(01763) 262512 Paul Ray—(01763) 260304 Marion Long—(01763) 261365

Cycling Group Good Companions Local History Group Lunch Club Melwood Cons. Group

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

Photographic Group

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A WI

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440 Chris Davison—(01763) 264189 Jane Bates—(01763) 261638

Sport

Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club

Vivien Constable—(01223) 207557 Janet Pope (01763) 248342 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

Church

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

Claire Thunder—07908 902017 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.

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Litter Picker Neighbourhood Watch One Stop Village Hall Bookings Village Hall Chairman Coffee Break

Childn.

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; Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Editorial Assistant: Robin Farbridge; Founder Member: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available online at issuu.com (search for Meldreth)

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

6 months £134.00 £74.00 £43.00 £11.00

12 months £216.00 £118.00 £65.00 £16.00

Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request.

For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on (01763) 262176.

Index to Advertisers Meldreth Matters depends entirely on advertising revenue to cover its production costs. Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers.

A10 Timber .....................................16 Abode Town and Country ..............29 Affordable Plumbing .......................37 Art of Clean ....................................58 Art of Clean Wood ..........................16 B2B Automotive .............................41 Benjamin and Fredericks ...........Cover Black Barn Turkeys ..........................8 Cam Valley Orchards ......................38 Cambourne Self Storage ..................55 Cambridge Roofers (1) ....................58 Cambridge Roofers (2) .....................8 Cambridge Sunblinds ......................38 CHS Day Centre .............................53 CHS Group .....................................16 Coton Electrical ..............................50 The Country Store ...........................50 Ely Design Group ............................58 Eternit Sports and Social Club ..........61 Four Counties Tree Services ............58 Gilhooly ....................................Cover Home Foot Care .............................50 iPlaster ............................................55 Lawn Partners .................................23 The Letting Centre ..........................12

Little Hands Nursery School ............58 Mandy Thornton Counselling ..........55 Melbourn Flooring ...........................55 Melbourn Village College (1) ............61 Melbourn Village College (2).......Cover Meldreth Landscapes .......................50 Meldreth Manor (Aurora) Job ad .....61 Meldreth Plant Hire .........................15 Michael Easton Personal Trainer ......16 Moncraft Computers ........................12 Nancy Foster Footcare .....................38 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service37 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......24 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ..................12 Reflections Hair Studio ....................23 Richard Burns Electrician ..................11 Rod’s PC Support .............................24 Royston Fencing ...............................23 Shelford Energy ................................50 Slimming World ...............................41 Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ..............23 Summit Landscapes ...........................24 Village Garden Services ....................12 Walkers Partnership Solicitors .....Cover 64

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

General Building Works, Home & Garden Improvements Tel: Mike on 07950 211 878 Or

email: benjaminandfredericks@outlook.com www.benandfred.co.uk @benandfred

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