Meldreth Matters, December 2018

December 2018

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Contents What’s On

Local Facilities/Issues

Christmas Carols at the BQ 6

Footway Access 24

Christmas Tree Festival back page

Mel Footpath 23

Local Events 26-27

Village Hall 29

Pantomime 13

Village Hall Trust 29

Police Surgery 25 Miscellaneous

Summary of Meldreth Events 3

An Act of Remembrance 5 MM Deliverers 2

Letters to the Editor 30 Years of MM 9-10

Transport

East West Rail 7-8

East West Rail (letter) 7-8 Village Groups

Park & Ride Consultation 56

Community Choir 28

Rail User Group 24

Friends of Holy Trinity 48 Local/National Government

Friends of Maycroft 45 Futures Group 37

Heidi Allen, MP 42-43

Photographic Club 50

Local Councillors 39-41

Tennis Club 55

Parish Council 35-37

WI 48

Planning 57

Women’s Group 49 Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 64

Gardens & Nature

Fire Service 61

Gardening 46

Home-Start 58 Children & Education

Mind Mental Health Service 59

1st Melbourn Guides 20

Mobile Warden Scheme 19

Baby & Toddler Group 15

Neighbourhood Watch 52-53

Events for Children 12

Refuse Collections 32

Melbourn Youth Club 21

Signs of a Stroke 59

Preschool 14-15

Village Directory 62-63

Primary School 17-19

Volunteering Opportunities 30

Cover: Holy Trinity Church during the 2017 Christmas Tree Festival. Photo by Malcolm Woods.

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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Editorial Our mailbag was overflowing after last month’s 30th anniversary issue!

Thank you to those who took the trouble to put pen to paper and show your appreciation for the magazine (see pages 9-10).

Meldreth Matters relies entirely on advertising income and I would like to thank our advertisers for their continued support. There is an Index to Advertisers on the last page of every issue (page 64 this month). Please remember to mention Meldreth Matters when responding to any advertisements.

Thanks are also due to our deliverers, listed below, who go out in all weathers to ensure you receive your magazine by the beginning of each month.

With the beautiful autumnal weather we have been enjoying recently it seems hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner. The Holy Trinity Christmas Tree Festival always heralds the beginning of the festive season for me, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing all of this year’s creations.

Don’t forget to look out for the Meldreth Matters tree!

On behalf of the MM Team, I’d like to wish all of our readers, advertisers and deliverers a very Happy Christmas.

Kathryn

Meldreth Matters: Deliverers We would like to thank the following people who delivered MM during 2018 and without whom it would not reach you: Ann Askham, Ann Barnes, Ralph Betts, Emma Birch, Sue Broadhurst, Roger Brown, Ged Burns, Jan Butchers, Linda Clarke, Ron Comben, Sharon Dunford, Tina Evenden, Chris Hill, David Hollamby, Pamela Hoskins, Daphne Jones-Barrie, Christine Knight, Jean Lawrence, Lynn Perkins, Bill Peters, Fletcher Savage, Rosie Smith, Ann Thomson, Lynn & Roger Wallbridge, Emily Walter, Bonnie Ward, Linda Winter.

The Meldreth Matters Team

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December Events in Meldreth

Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd

Friday 30th November, 8.00pm Saturday 1st December, 2.00pm & 7.30pm Sunday 2nd December, 2.00pm MADS’ Cinderella Meldreth Village Hall See page 13

11.00am - 5.00pm Holy Trinity Christmas Tree Festival Advent Service at 5.30pm on Sunday 2nd See back page

Wednesday 5th, 7.30 - 9.00pm Rail User Group Meeting See page 24 Friday 7th 10.30am - 12 noon Police Surgery With PCSO James Lynch See pages 25 & 41 Both in Elin Way

8.30 - 11.00pm Live acoustic music with various artists Eternit Sports and Social Club, Whaddon Road Meldreth All welcome, Free entry, licensed bar, real ale etc

Saturday 8th

Tuesday 18th

9.00am

6.30pm

Footpaths Working Party

Carols at the British Queen

Friday 7th

Meet near bridge behind British Queen

Mulled wine and mulled cider available

See page 23 for further details

See page 6 3

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An Act of Remembrance

The annual Remembrance Service was held at Meldreth War Memorial on Sunday 11th November and attracted a large number of residents, who gathered to remember the sacrifices made by past and current Meldreth residents.

The service was conducted by Rev. Lizzie Shipp and wreaths were laid by representatives of the Parish Council, Women’s Royal British Legion, Meldreth Guides, Meldreth Brownies, Meldreth Primary School and Meldreth Football Club.

A memorial bench (pictured left) which was purchased by the Parish Council was blessed by Rev. Shipp and will be placed outside Meldreth Primary School.

Kathryn Betts Editor

Photographs by Malcolm Woods 5

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Letters to the Editor East West Rail I have been reading with interest the recent article in Meldreth Matters on the reopening of the Oxford to Cambridge railway line which will potentially come close to Meldreth, and the LibDem sponsored CambBedRoadRail group (CBRR) who are trying to push for a more northerly, but much more expensive and heavily engineered route via Cambourne. There has in my opinion, been a lot of unnecessary local negativity and alarm whipped up by CBRR towards what is a positive, hard fought for and once in a generation railway reopening project. As a railwayman and controller for Network Rail currently dealing with the western end of the line, I’d like to put a much more positive spin on it.

Almost 51 years ago, in early January 1968, the once busy rails of the old railway line from Bedford to Cambridge fell silent. A strategic, useful and vital cross country transport link was gone with a stroke of a pen and signalled the end of the Oxford to Cambridge through route that linked the eastern ports with the West Country and South Wales. During the war years, only 23 years before closure, a constant and heavy procession of trains ran along the line carrying troops, Bletchley Park boffins, sundries, tanks, bombs, ammunition, coal, steel, fish; you name it - it ran.

A common and very believable misconception is that the line was closed

by Dr Beeching who was infamous for his 1963 report ‘Reshaping British Railways’, resulting in many thousands of miles of railway being closed. Strangely enough, Dr Beeching recommended that not only was the Oxford to Cambridge line to be kept, but upgraded and modernised due to its vital and strategic position. With a change of government, however, this ultimately fell on deaf ears and to much protest and dismay, the line was quickly run down. Final closure came in the early hours of 1st January 1968, endorsed and signed off by Barbara Castle, Transport Minister, Labour. “That’s your lot” said one railwayman as he watched the red tail lamp of the last train disappear into the night. Sad times.

By 1995, the Varsity line had been closed for nearly three decades and was still missed by many people. Why should a 30 mile trip between Cambridge and Bedford take over two hours via London? The East West Rail consortium was born and was the unlikely brainchild of Ipswich Borough Council who soon got lots of other councils and 7

groups on board to push for the reopening of the railway. Not much was seen to happen in the following years but a team of hardworking and dedicated individuals were beavering away behind the scenes to try and make the dream of reopening the railway a reality.

Then, a most unprecedented thing happened ... the government actually started to take notice and got behind the scheme! Unfortunately, in the short sighted world we live in, much of the original track bed and alignment between Bedford and Cambridge had been built on, meaning that a new route has to be found. Fortunately, between Bedford and Oxford the line remains intact and is now in the process of being rebuilt and upgraded.

This brings me on to the current campaign by CambBedRoadRail to find an alternative route to the one likely to be favoured by the government, and detailed in previous issues of MM, via Shepreth, Bassingbourn and Sandy. I like to keep an open mind on CBRR but recently someone sent me a link to a CBRR petition to stop “the blight” of EastWestRail coming through South Cambs and to divert via Cambourne instead. Judging by the comments on the petition and fundraising pages, it is clear that in some quarters the new railway is viewed as a threat and there is strong motivation to prevent it coming anywhere near to local villages such as Gamlingay and Wrestlingworth, rather than because they have a massive desire to see Cambourne served by rail. A new route via Cambourne would be great for everyone in Cambourne but in the cold, harsh world of limited money and time, this northerly route would cost lots more to engineer, be much longer geographically and have adverse implications on the time taken overall to get from East to West by train.

A negative and sensationalist campaign by CBRR whipping up alarm and upset along the potential route isn’t helpful to East West Rail and could end up completely derailing the project between Bedford and Cambridge, which would result in everyone far and wide losing out.

To conclude, I completely understand that some people don’t like the idea of a new railway being built close to where they live but if East West Rail actually comes off, once again people and freight will be able to travel uninterrupted from East Anglia to the West without having to go via London. It will undo a massively great wrong of the 1960’s and leave a positive legacy for future generations who will have a fantastic and environmentally friendly East West rail facility!

Greg Dash 8

30 Years of Meldreth Matters We would like to thank the hard working Meldreth Matters team, past and present, for thirty years of making Meldreth Matters enjoyable, interesting and informative. Thank you too to all the people that deliver the magazine, who make sure it is always delivered on time.

Marian and Lynn Oakman 30 Years of Meldreth Matters We came to Meldreth in 1990 and were delighted to receive our first copy of this wonderful insight of village life and realised we had come to the right place.

There’s a saying “from little acorns mighty oaks grow”. This truly describes our Meldreth Matters which has grown from such small but, inspirational beginnings. Of course, it couldn’t have happened without such dedication from so few people. Our thanks to all of you.

June and Ron Comben 30 Years of Meldreth Matters I would like to thank you and your team for producing such a consistently interesting and helpful magazine each month and also for representing so many varied village activities in such a fair way.

Congratulations and many thanks.

Name supplied 30 Years of Meldreth Matters I have just received the November issue of Meldreth Matters.

Many congratulations on a super 30th anniversary edition. How impressive that so many of the original team are still involved. I found the chronology of 30 years of Meldreth Matters very interesting, having lived here for 25 of them. There was much that I had forgotten and quite a bit that I genuinely never knew.

I was struck, however, by an omission: Neither Meldreth Playgroup (now Meldreth Preschool) nor Mother and Toddler Group (now Meldreth Babies and Toddlers) were mentioned. Both are very important to young families and integral to village life. Toddler Group was founded not long before I moved into the village, I believe, by a 9

group of local mums, which included Miriam Skuce. I do feel this was a significant event as it has provided a lifeline for generations of parents – there were some dads too in my time – who might otherwise have felt isolated at home with small children.

For nearly 30 years, young families have been able to get together, share experiences and advice, support each other and, of course, make friends. When I moved into the village as a new mum in 1993, Miriam and her wonderful mum, Betty (granny to Dan and Laura), were running the sessions and I met many people who remain friends today, even though our babies and toddlers have grown up and left home.

Similarly, Meldreth Playgroup was a volunteer-run community group in its early days, operating on a precarious shoestring before childcare vouchers were invented and based, like Toddler Group, in the Village Hall. Only in recent years has it become the smooth, professional operation that is Meldreth PreSchool and I see that it will now be offering an even-more streamlined introduction to the Primary School from its new base.

I realise that tough editorial decisions had to be made and much had to be left out but I do feel that some mention of these groups in “19882018 According to Meldreth Matters”, particularly since both have contributed to the magazine, was merited.

Catharine Walston

Editor’s Note: Since receiving Catharine’s letter (above) I have looked through some of the early issues of Meldreth Matters for references to the Toddler Group and Playgroup. So far I have been unable to find a specific reference to either group being formed. It appears that the Toddler Group may predate the founding of MM. A Mums’ and Toddlers’ Service at the Church was mentioned in the diary listing of the very first issue of MM in November 1988 and the following month, a Toddler Group met in the Village Hall.

The first issue in which I could find a mention of an Under 5s Group (presumably the precursor to the Playgroup) was February 1992.

However, before then an Under 5’s service was held in Holy Trinity Church.

If any of those involved in setting up either group could shed any light on this I would be grateful!

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What’s On for Children and Families in December Saturday 1st December, 11.00am-3.00pm Winter Prints, Cambridge Botanic Gardens CB2 1JE Print gift cards and tags using plants. Look at Christmas plants such as mistletoe, fir and holly. Free, drop-in event. Adults pay usual admission charge. See www.botanic.cam.ac for details.

Wednesdays 5th and 19th December, 4.00pm-4.45pm Stained glass window activity, Cambridge Science Centre 44, Clifton Road, Cambridge CB1 7ED Mirror the beauty of a stained glass window using simple science and everyday materials. Drop in. Suitable for all ages. Admission to the centre £3 for children, £4 for adults.

Saturday 8th December, 10.30am-12.30pm Intrepid Winter Explorers Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Handle objects from the Polar Museum and imagine what it would be like to adventure in winter. For ages 5 - 7. £8 per child. To book ring (01223) 332904 or see www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk Saturday 8th December, 2.00pm Ely Wildlife Watch - Christmas Capers Fisherman’s car park, Willow Walk, Ely CB7 4AT To book ring (01353) 610224. £3 per child, £5 per family. Children under 8 must be accompanied. See www.wildlifebcn.org.

Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd December, 2.30pm A Cruel and Creepy Christmas with Prof. A Bismal Oliver Cromwell’s House, Ely CB7 4HF Tours exploring Christmas traditions such as Christmas logs and looking at Christmas in the trenches, finishing with a spooky story. For ages 4 to 104 (children must be accompanied). Adults £7, under 16s £5.

See www.visitcambridge.org to book.

Saturday 22nd December, 10.00am-11.30am or 11.30am-12.30pm A Calm Creative Christmas, Wandlebury, Cambridge CB22 3AE Outdoor craft and storytelling by Vital Spark for ages 3 to 7. £6 per child. Book at: katherine@vitalsparktheatre.org.

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Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

13

Meldreth Preschool www.meldrethpreschool.com As winter draws in, the preschool is as busy as ever. The children are preparing for Christmas with an array of craft projects, the designing and printing of Christmas cards, a LOT of singing and thinking about the many stories that are told at this time of year.

Alongside all this, we are preparing for our big move over to the Primary School in January – the preschool will leave the Village Hall in December after years of calling it home. The parting will be bittersweet: on the one hand we will be moving to a purposebuilt room and the staff will no longer have to pack away a room full of furniture every day, but on the other, hundreds of children have loved their experience of preschool in the familiar surroundings of the Village Hall and it will be a big change to leave those memories behind.

With such a big project coming up, we are in a constant state of cleaning, clearing, sorting and organising all our equipment, so keep your eye out for updates of equipment, toys and some books which we will not have room for when we move. If you are looking for a bargain Christmas present or a memento of the preschool, then follow us on Facebook for details of what might be on offer.

We always appreciate any offers of help, so if you are available to assist with our move, either before the big day or between 3rd and 6th January, then please let us know.

You can email us at chair@meldrethpreschool.com or manager@meldrethpreschool.com.

We are currently looking for anyone who can help us take the odd bag or box to the tip or household recycling centre, so if you are able to take a load for us, then please let us know.

We also want to welcome our newest member of staff. Beth started just after half term and has already proved popular with the children. They don’t relax their exacting standards for anyone, so it’s a good sign!

Preschool AGM: Wednesday 5th December The preschool will also be holding its AGM on Wednesday 5th December at 7.45pm in Holy Trinity Church Hall. We will be discussing plans for the move and giving parents more details of what they can expect in January. We would welcome any parents who wish to learn more to come along and join us.

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We are still experiencing significant demand for places, so please get in touch for an application form as soon as you can. You can email us at manager@meldrethpreschool.com or call (07518) 173653 to have a look around and find out about our availability.

Meldreth Preschool

Baby and Toddler Group

Meldreth Baby and Toddler Group meets on Wednesday mornings during term time from 9.15am to 11.15am in Meldreth Village Hall.

The cost is ÂŁ2 per family and includes a snack for the children and a hot drink and biscuits for the adults.

It is the ideal group for children aged 0-4 years and their parents and carers. We provide a fun and nurturing environment where parents can have a chat and make friends and children can enjoy socialising and trying different crafts and activities.

Christmas Party Our Christmas party will be held on Wednesday 19th December with lots of treats and games.

Can You Help?

We will be returning after the Christmas break on Wednesday 9th January.

We are still looking for more helpers to run the group. If you can spare a few hours on Wednesday mornings to help set up/tidy away on a regular basis or perhaps you fancy reading some stories and singing some songs to our very youthful crowd. Any help would be very much appreciated. Come along and see how much fun you can have!

For further information come along to one of our meetings or contact me on 07908 902017.

Claire Thunder 15

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Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Have courage and be kind.” ©Disney

“

This quote embodies what we have been discussing in our PSHE lessons in Year 3 this term. During Remembrance Week, Osprey Class discussed how the brave men in our armed forces have to face their fears, have courage and be brave. We decided to write about a time that we were brave or had to have courage…

Chloe, Year 3 – The Cobra On the second day of our holiday, we set off to go to Peppa Pig Land.

When we got there, Jessica wanted to go on Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter, which was like a big wheel. We went round three times and then we went for fish and chips for lunch. Daniel and I were getting bored, so Mum took us to a rocking boat ride, while Dad and Jess were playing.

We had loads of goes on that and then we decided to queue up for a rollercoaster called ‘The Cobra’.

Soon it was our turn for the rollercoaster and Dad came over to video us. I was really scared by then, because we had watched other people go on it and it was really, really fast! Daniel pushed me on and the bars came down. “No turning back now,” said Daniel. I was so nervous, but once it started I began to enjoy it, it was over far too quickly. By the end, I wanted to go on it over and over again.

Maya, Year 3 – Climbing at the Fair One day, when I was 6 or 7, I went to the Royston Fair with my Mum, sister and Nanny. I went on loads of rides and on one ride I even saw Scarlett! We went to the sweet shop to get some flying saucers and then we went to a huge climbing wall. I had never got all the way to the top of a climbing wall…

I felt so nervous to climb. As I looked up, I felt courage because I knew that I would be safe. When I got to the top, I was SO happy and proud. I jumped off and the rope lowered me down. I learned that if you don’t succeed the first time then you have to try again.

continued …

17

Tom, Year 3 – Climbing One day, I said to my Dad, “Can I start climbing?”

He said yes, so the next day we drove to the climbing wall. When I saw how tall it was, I didn’t want to do it anymore.

I was SO scared! But, Dad said now we were there we needed to give it a go.

I felt scared when I saw how tall it was, but I climbed it anyway. I felt more nervous the higher and higher I got. On my third go I got right to the top! It felt like I was going to trip and fall at any minute, but I was fine and the closer I got back to the ground the safer I felt.

I learned that you must not be scared to try new things.

Above: Osprey Class (Year 3) children making ‘Kindness Fortune-tellers’ in PSHE.

Millie, Year 3 – The Swimming Pool The day I moved up a swimming group, I was really nervous because I knew I was going to have to swim the whole pool! It was scary as the deep end was really deep. We were asked to swim on our fronts and our backs. Twice! When I first started it was scary, as I wasn’t sure if I could do it, but the more I swam the easier it became. By the end, I was really happy.

Claudia McGinty Year 3 Teacher 18

School Open Afternoon It was wonderful to see so many parents, ex pupils, pupils, friends of the school and ex staff at our recent Open Event. Thank you for all your many kind comments on the improvements to our facilities at Meldreth Primary School.

As a result of the construction work, our school has three new modern classrooms and a large learning corridor for our new library and group and individual work. Our new classrooms are heated by efficient air-sourced underfloor heating and feature energy efficient lighting and solar powered ventilation systems to ensure excellent energy efficiency.

At the same time, we have also improved our use of the school’s outdoor spaces and created a safer environment for the children as they arrive at and leave school, which will better support communication between home and school.

As the school staff, we feel particularly fortunate to have received the funding to enable the children and families in Meldreth to access brighter improved teaching and learning spaces.

Sasha Howard, Headteacher 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 19

1st Melbourn Guides The Girlguiding programme may be changing but the ethos remains the same: fun, friendship, and adventure. Our summer camp at Eaton Vale, near Norwich provided all this, and some welcome rain after the driest summer on record! A wet morning couldn’t spoil some fiercely competitive grass sledging, nor spoil a noisy crate stacking session. Our theme this year was jungle challenges; this included fishing for Lego in increasingly revolting substances such as baked beans, oily pasta, and dried mealworms. The girls also made sago grubs from fondant icing, and chocolate dog poo. Our camp programme also featured favourites such as firelighting and cooking, singing and marshmallows round the campfire, team building challenges, and kayaking on the river.

We started the autumn term with a look at the new programme resources, then enjoyed a penny hike/scavenger hunt around the village. Prior to the seven new girls making their Guide promise, we had fun exploring the Promise and Law with games and activities such as drama, Twister, and planting daffodil bulbs in decorated pots. If you would like to know more about joining our waiting list or becoming a leader, or if you have any skills, charities or interests which you would like to share with us, please contact me on: (01763) 261443 or melbournguides@gmail.com.

Hilary Marsh 20

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Help Needed on the Mel Footpath Due to the generosity of Shire Tree Surgery and The British Queen, there is a pile of chippings ready to spread on the path beside the Mel which runs from Flambards to Topcliffe Mill. We are very grateful to both Shire and the British Queen for providing and storing these chippings and now the Footpaths Team really need some help to spread them along the path. We do this because the path just has a soil base and spreading wood chippings over the last fifteen years has kept this path in fair condition all year round, even in rainy weather, for villagers to use for dog walking, running and family walks.

Please can you spare 1-2 hours from 9.00am on Saturday 8th December to help spread the chippings to keep the path in good condition this winter? We particularly need help to load wheel barrows and walk them along the path to the spreading point. We meet on the path near the bridge behind the British Queen at 9.00am and work for up to two hours. If you can bring a wheel barrow and shovel, that is even better.

We also need some help with raking the chippings; please bring a rake.

Be warned that some of our helpers have been known to chat whilst doing this! If you are able to help, please just come along on the morning, and if you want to know of future work, please contact me on (01763) 261442 or email sm89@btinternet.com.

The Footpaths Team are a small group of volunteers who work on behalf of Meldreth Parish Council and Cambridgeshire County Council to undertake light maintenance work on the village footpaths (not pavements) for the benefit of the village. We welcome anyone who wishes to assist in our efforts. Contact me for more information.

Thank you.

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23

Footway Access Following the article in October’s Meldreth Matters, ‘Hedges Verging on Our Footways’, thanks go out to those many residents who have actioned the cutting back of hedges to their boundary lines. This is greatly appreciated by footway users including those more vulnerable user groups in our community.

There is still some work to do, to ensure unencumbered passage along all of our village footways*. To this end, the Parish Council will monitor the situation through the winter, taking appropriate action where needed for the benefit of footway users. *A footway is the council term for a path along the highway. It includes pavements and footpaths.

Meldreth Transport Working Group

Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Rail User Group: It’s Up to Us www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk We meet next on Wednesday 5th December, from 7.30 to 9.00pm at Meldreth’s Elin Way Community Room.

Please do come along if you have queries or are curious about what the group does on behalf of the local community, as it’s down to us to hold the train operating company, Network Rail and the Department for Transport to account on our public transport service. Our meetings are run to time!

For more information see www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk.

Contact us at railusergroup@gmail.com if you’d like to be on our mailing list.

Susan van de Ven, Chair Sarah Grove, Community Rail Partnership Project Officer 24

Please note: PCSO James Lynch will also be holding a surgery at Melbourn Hub from 11.00am to 1.00pm on Tuesday 11th December.

25

Local Events in December Here is a selection of events happening nearby in December. To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Saturday 1st December, 10.30am to 4.30pm Mill Road Winter Fair, Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 2BD Street market, craft, food & drink stalls, music, dance, drama and storytelling. Lively event, great atmosphere. www.millroadwinterfair.org.

Sunday 2nd December, 10.00am to 4.00pm Christmas Begins at Burwash Burwash Manor, New Road, Barton, Cambridgeshire CB23 7EY Travelling fair, pony rides, hot food, mulled wine, carols sung by local school choirs and an early chance to meet Father Christmas (booking essential) on (01223) 264674. Details at: www.burwashmanor.com.

Monday 3rd to Friday 7th December, daily 11.30am to 1.00pm Seasonal Garden Tour Anglesey Abbey, Quy Road, Lode, Cambridgeshire CB25 9EJ Join a garden guide for a free tour around the Abbey’s striking gardens, focusing on the seasonal highlights. Free event but normal National Trust admission applies. Get a ticket at reception; first come, first served.

No advance booking needed. See: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Friday 7th and Saturday 8th December, 7.30pm Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol at the Cambridge Leper Chapel Barnwell Junction, Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8JJ Adapted and performed by Martin Prest and told the way Dickens told it: one man, one stage. A captivating seasonal tale. Adults£12, under 18s and students £8. To book visit: www.thatsmycueproductions.com.

Saturday 8th December, 11am to 3.00pm Bourn Christmas Fair Great Barn, Manor Farm, Alms Hill, Bourn, Cambs CB23 2SH Over 50 stalls selling hand-crafted jewellery, locally-brewed craft beers, cards, decorations, gifts and hand-made toys. Spectacular setting. For further details: www.manorfarmbourn.com or call (01954)713971.

Saturday 8th December, 7.30pm Orwell Singers Christmas Concert, Orwell Village Hall SG8 5QN Hear seasonal favourites from this fine local choir under new musical director, Calum Zuckert - and join in with some. Bar. Tickets £10, to include a buffet supper from Katie Reid (01223) 207387 or Orwell shop.

26

Saturday 8th December, 7.30pm Kansas Smitty’s House Band Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH Pioneering east London-based eight piece jazz band - nominated for best UK jazz act by Jazz FM. Tickets £15-£30 (likely to sell quickly) from 0845 548 7650 or visit: www.saffronhall.com.

Tuesday 11th December, 12.15pm to 2.15pm (chat from 1.00pm) Literary Lunch with crime fiction writer Sophie Hannah Old Bull Inn, High Street, Royston SG8 9AW Hosted by Jude Simpson, with buffet served from 12.15pm. In aid of Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire. Tickets £15 from (01763) 262262, admin@hsrsc.org.uk or www.ticketsource.co.uk/hsrsc.

Friday 14th December, 10.15am to 12.00 noon Christmas Crafts at the Fitzwilliam Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB Try your hand at making cards, tree decorations and table pieces.

Complimentary mince pie or two and hot drink. Admission £15 (£12 concessions and Museum Friends). To book call (01223) 332900.

Sunday 23rd December, 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Great St. Mary’s Church, Cambridge, Senate House Hill CB2 3PQ Music for Christmas in the lovely setting of Cambridge’s historic University Church. For details and other services: www.gsm.cam.ac.uk.

Thursday 27th December, 11.00am to 12.30pm Wimpole Hall Library ‘Read-In’ Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Cambridgeshire SG8 8SH And if it’s all been too much and you need some time to yourself … bring your own book and settle down for a good read in Wimpole Hall’s beautiful library! Free to members, £18 non-members. Booking essential on 0344 249 1895. Something warm to wear and soft-soled shoes, please.

Friday 28th December, 10am to 1.00pm Midwinter Wildlife Walk, Roswell Pits and River Great Ouse Meet Ely Cathedral Car Park, Barton Road, Ely CB7 4HZ After all that festive food try this guided walk to see what exciting wildlife can be found in the depths of winter. Warm clothing and stout footwear recommended. Contact Will Burdett on (01353) 661339.

Compiled by John Crawforth 27

A New Community Choir for Meldreth From 16th January 2019 I will be leading a new Choir/Community Singing Group in Meldreth Village Hall from 1.15pm-2.45pm on Wednesday afternoons. The group will be open to singers of all abilities and I really hope that many of you will consider coming along to join in the fun.

There are wonderful health benefits to singing in a group and my intention is for it to be an uplifting and social experience for all attending. All abilities are welcome, and there will be no solo singing involved, so you can come and hide in the crowd should you wish.

I have been teaching singing for over 20 years now and you can find out more about me on my website – claresilver.co.uk.

We will be singing a large variety of songs, which will mostly be Pop, Rock or Musical Theatre. There will also be a break for tea and coffee when I hope new friendships will be formed.

The charge will be £5 per session on a pay-as-you-go basis.

I do hope to see you in January.

Clare Silver csilver13@btinternet.com 07548 247755

meldrethhistory.org.uk Over 600 pages on Meldreth past and present Meldreth Today section includes:  28 local clubs and groups  Meldreth’s footpaths  Village facilities Historic information includes:  Building Materials  Commerce  Education  Law and Order  Social Events 28

New Year, New Opportunities?

Why not come and join the Trustees of our Village Hall?

The roles of Chairman, Honorary Secretary and Honorary Treasurer have been fulfilled by the same people for five years. They are looking to move on and this presents opportunities for new people to manage the running of a valued Meldreth facility.

The Chairman chairs the AGM and three or four Trustees’ meetings a year. He/she acts as the Chief Executive Officer of a £15,000 a year charity – which owns the Hall and leases the land it stands on.

The Honorary Secretary is responsible for the agendas and taking notes of all meetings and is the manager of the weekday and weekend Housekeepers. He/she purchases Housekeepers’ supplies and arranges routine maintenance and repairs.

The Honorary Treasurer needs to work simple spreadsheets rather than have accountancy qualifications. He/she makes payments, reconciles the bank statements, keeps Trustees informed and liaises annually with the Independent Examiner of the accounts.

If you are interested in fulfilling one of these roles or if you know of someone else who may be interested, please contact Paul Ray on (01763) 260304 or via p_ray@btopenworld.com.

Meldreth Village Hall Trust

Village Hall From the week beginning 14th January, the Village Hall will be available for daytime classes and clubs as Meldreth Preschool will be moving across the road to the Primary School. For booking enquiries, please contact me on (01763) 262512 or 07803 896042.

Sherida Richards

MELDRETH PLANT HIRE TEL: 01763 262738 DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WHACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE. WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK 29

Volunteering Opportunities The following organisations need more volunteers.

Meldreth Village Hall Trust Committee Is looking for volunteers to help run Meldreth Village Hall. See p. 29.

Footpaths Group Would like volunteers to help spread wood chippings on the path from Flambards to Topcliffe Mill on the morning of Saturday 8th December.

See page 23 for further details.

Meldreth PreSchool The Preschool is looking for people who can help with its move to the Primary School in January. Please see the article on page 14.

Meldreth Local History Group MLHG needs volunteers who would be willing to help add material to its website. Please contact Joan Gane on (01763) 260129 or email info@meldrethhistory.org.uk if you are interested.

Home-Start Royston and South Cambridgeshire HSRSC is looking for Home Visiting Volunteers in the Buntingford and Royston area. A training course will be held from January to March 2019. For further information, please see page 58 or contact Sarah or Jackie on (01763) 262262 or email admin@hsrsc.org.uk.

Volunteer Drivers and Volunteer Van Crew at Cambridge Re-Use Drivers and van crew are wanted to join the team at Cambridge Re-Use to help deliver and collect furniture to and from customers’ homes.

Drivers do not need to lift; van crew need to be physically fit and able to lift. We offer a warm and friendly atmosphere, travel and lunch expenses, 25% discount and free delivery on any purchases made from the charity. For further information please contact Cara, the Manager, on (01223) 414554 or email cara@cambridgereuse.org.uk.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary Victim and Witness Hub The Witness Hub is looking for volunteers to join its team in helping victims of crime to cope and recover from the impact. Volunteers are expected to commit a minimum of four hours a week and will be provided with all the support and tools required to carry out the role. This role is subject to successful interview, satisfactory police vetting, references and training. Training will begin early 2019. For further information email kimberley.morris@cambs.pnn.police.uk or visit www.cambsvictimservices.co.uk.

30

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Meldreth Village Dia Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thur

Refuse Collections Black bins: 11th, 22nd* Blue & Green bins: 4th, 18th * different collection day due to public holidays 9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters

9.15-11.15am B&T Grp 6.00-7.00pm Brownies 7.30-9.00pm Rail User Group, Elin Way (P24) 7.45pm Preschool AGM, Holy Trinity Church 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

7.15pm WI C Party

5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts

6.00-7.00pm Brownies

7.30pm Paris

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group

24 31

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.40-11.30 Mobile Library 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 6.30pm Carols, British Q 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 10.00am Holy Communion

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00-7.00pm Brownies

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

12.00-2.00pm British Queen

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. Cam Valley Crafters and Meld Way. Brownies, Messy Church & Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group meet in the Holy Tri lay-by opposite Holy Trinity Church. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwis 32

ry - December 2018

sday

Friday

The copy deadline for the January issue of Meldreth Matters is Wednesday 12th December

m Fitness

h Council

m Table

10.30am-12 noon Police Surgery, Elin Way Community Room (p25) 8.30-11.00pm Live Music with Various Artists, Eternit Sports & Social Club

Saturday 11.00am-5.00pm Christmas Tree Festival, Holy Trinity Church 2.00pm Cinderella 7.30pm Cinderella (see page 13) 9.00am Footpaths Working Group (p23) 10.00am Veg Club Plus, 5 Chiswick End

Sunday 8.00am Holy Communion 11.00am-5.00pm Christmas Tree Festival, Holy Trinity Church 2.00pm Cinderella (p13) 5.30pm Advent Carol Service 8.00am Holy Communion 11.00am-4.00pm Tea Dance

10.00am-4.00pm Rat Show 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Children’s Club

Christmas

4.00pm Carol Service

m Fitness

8.00am Holy Communion

m Table

m Pub Club, n

m Table

9.45am Family Communion

dreth Local History Group meetings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin nity meeting room. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the e indicated.

33

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MOTS Cars and vans Service and repairs to all COMMERCIALS HORSE BOXES MINI BUSES

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Phone Mick on: 01763 263248 34

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Meeting held on 1st November 2018.

We present the main points of this meeting in a new format. The formal minutes can be viewed on the Parish Council website at www.meldreth-pc.org.uk and on the Parish Council Notice Board.

Decisions Taken  To investigate holding a Police surgery meeting in Meldreth [see page 25].  To purchase a new website package from an established provider

to other parishes, to come under the control of the Clerk. The new website to be funded from Solar Community Benefit Funds but annual costs to be precepted.  To pay the 2016/17 invoice in respect of Meldreth’s participation

in the Melbourn Area Youth Development (MAYD) and to make this payment from the Solar Community Benefit Fund.  To consider paying the 2017/18 MAYD invoice after the next

meeting between MAYD and Parish Council representatives.  To locate the WW1 Commemorative bench at the front of the

Primary School opposite the Village Hall (the Primary School supports this).  To proceed with replacing thirteen street lights in North End and

Chiswick End subject to confirmation on type of bulb to be supplied. Only the heads of the lights to be replaced but one defective lamp column will need to be replaced.  To accept the offer of £1,000 from Anglian Water as a gesture of

goodwill following the sewage incident at the Recreation Ground, to be applied to tree planting at the site; to carry out further research on type of tree(s) and suitable guards; to bring forward proposals on where trees should be located.  To purchase small reflector strips for bollards recently installed at

the Stocks.  To use any spoil from the Recreation ground ditch to reinforce

the bund at the Mettle Hill site.

35

 Not to make any changes to the kissing gate on the footpath

approaching the railway station.  To pay for the room hire at Elin Way to host the next meeting of

the Rail User Group.  For the time being not to produce an Emergency Plan for the

village.

Discussion Points  Futures group projects; no proposals for decision at this meeting.

Further information being sought on applications from the Bowls Club and Melbourn Amateur Dramatics.  Mettle Hill: awaiting advice from CAPALC and NALC on legal,

financial and tax issues.  District and County Councillors’ report – see page 39-41.  Traffic Group: difficulty of getting information from County

Highways; traffic calming measures in Haslingfield; reduced speed limit in High Street to be revisited.  Playground; all in good working order but some work to be

undertaken.  Melbourn s106 proposal to locate bicycle racks near the railway

station. Remains under review with Cambs County Council, supported by District and County Councillors. Parish Council opposes current proposals.  Ditch at recreation ground; removal of silt and work on

neighbouring SCDC ditch remaining under discussion.  Financial Regulations document to be presented to next Council

meeting.  Budget and Annual Precept meeting to be held, to be attended by

Finance Group.  Rail User Group; letter of support for “access to all” sent by

Parish Council.  Lengthsman proposal to remain under review.

36

 Thanks expressed to Parish Paths Partnership for their work on

leaf clearance.  Church Wall: initial meeting has taken place with architect.

Next Meeting  Thursday 6th December 2018 at 7.30pm.

Meldreth Parish Council Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston SG8 6LT

Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm By appointment at other times Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928 Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061

parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk richardgoddin@gmail.com

Mr R A Searles (Vice Ch)

(01763) 260435

robert.searles@btinternet.com

Mrs C J Fallon

(01763) 262822

joan.fallonpc@gmail.com

Mr N Garner

(01763) 268328

nickphgarner@gmail.com

Mrs P Gilmore

(01763) 263138

patgilmore.mpc@gmail.com

Dr R James

(01763) 261085

roger+pc@rogerjames.net

Mr C A Land

(01763) 261004

conradland@btinternet.com

Mr Nigel Pellatt

(01763) 262444

nppellatt@btconnect.com

Mr A Young

(01763) 263484

andrewmpc@gmail.com

Meldreth Futures Group There is money available from solar funds for projects that will be beneficial to our community.

Visit www.meldrethfutures.org.uk for details of how to apply.

For further information, email admin@meldrethfutures.org.uk or contact the Parish Clerk, Judy Damant, on (01763) 269928 or email parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk.

37

The Letting Centre 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 email enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk

Village Garden Services Contact : Campbell Weir Mobile : 07798 924022 Home : 01223 207583 Email : campbell.weir@outlook.com Reliable and friendly service for all your general garden maintenance needs and much more ...‌ !

38

Parish Council Report from your District and County Councillors We’ve now started to combine our reports into one – we hope this is helpful! If you have any questions for us, please get in touch anytime using our contact details below or feel free to pop into our monthly surgery at the Melbourn Hub on the first Monday of each month from 3.00 to 4.00pm.

Electoral Registration South Cambridgeshire officers from the electoral services team will be door-knocking at those households in the district which have yet to return their electoral registration forms up until 21st November. It is easy to go online and register the voters in your household and remove those no longer living in the household unit. Follow this link https:// www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

Primary School Expansion Expansion work at Melbourn and Meldreth Primary Schools is nearing completion. In the case of Meldreth, the wait has been particularly long. Melbourn’s expansion will allow it to accommodate the new population arising from developments currently with planning permission, but the test case of a large speculative application for homes in Cambridge Road Melbourn showed that Melbourn Primary could not accommodate children from further developments – which means that neighbouring schools with extra capacity would be turned to.

Junior Travel Ambassadors Meldreth Primary School Travel Ambassadors addressed the Greater Cambridge Partnership Board meeting on 11th October to put forward the case for improving safe walk, cycle and scootering provision within Meldreth and for connections to neighbouring villages and Royston.

This is within the scope of the Melbourn Greenways project, that will go out for public consultation early next year. Archie and Yunus, aged 10, and Iris, aged 7 each logged a public question which they presented verbally within the allocated time slot. Susan will be joining Meldreth School at this week’s Cambridgeshire Junior Travel Ambassadors conference in Huntingdon to learn more about the role of schools in supporting active travel in their communities, starting with journeys to school.

39

Bonfires Please can we remind residents to be considerate and to follow the Council Environmental Health advice at https://www.scambs.gov.uk/ environment/pollution/air-pollution/smoke-and-bonfires/.

The new Liberal Democrat administration is putting air quality at the forefront of its green agenda. To that end, please can residents also make sure that they burn well-seasoned wood in their wood burners and grates.

Highways Urgent Works Jose and Susan are meeting the temporary District Highways Manager to look at reporting patterns for fault repair works in the parish, and to ensure that pavements and roads in the most urgent state of disrepair are accounted for.

Bus Services The Mayor is expected to announce the results of his Bus Review sometime in November. Our 127 service depends on a funding solution from 1st April. A Cam Vale Bus User Group meeting will be arranged for January to update our residents who depend on the service.

Brexit Impact on South Cambridgeshire Businesses SCDC hosted a session last week offering support from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and the Chamber of Commerce for South Cambridgeshire area businesses, which Susan attended. Main concerns expressed were around the EU workforce, supply chains for the EU, and general economic downturn. The FSB said that most small businesses have done no Brexit risk assessment or preparation, because the subject is too complex and overwhelming and requires dedicated staff – which large businesses tend to have. Small businesses are invited to contact SCDC Economic Development officer Johanna Davies for more information: johanna.davies@scambs.gov.uk.

Home-Start Philippa attended the Home-Start AGM a couple of weeks ago – the branch serves Royston and South Cambridgeshire. Home-Start was one of many organisations supporting young families that is facing more pressure in the wake of the loss of Cambridgeshire children’s centre services. They need to raise £175,000 to maintain their overall operations in the next year. ‘This puts my £2k sponsored swim contribution into sobering perspective’ says Philippa.

40

Police Surgeries & CAB The next drop-in surgeries are:  Friday 7th December, 10.30am to 12 noon at Elin Way Community Room (see page 25)  Tuesday 11th December, 11.00am to 1.00pm at Melbourn Hub. The promised Police Public Information evening will be held on Tuesday 22nd January, at 7.30pm at Melbourn Hub. North Herts and District Citizens Advice Bureau runs a drop-in service at the Melbourn Hub, through funding from SCDC (first and third Mondays, 9.30-12.00 noon). Its Royston walk-in service is open to South Cambridgeshire residents. Susan is a member and will be reporting back after their AGM as to key issues for our residents.

More at https://www.northhertscab.org.uk.

The Hub is open to all Meldreth residents – and indeed residents from all localities – but is financed by Melbourn residents.

Mind Wellbeing Service Melbourn Hub Cambridgeshire County Council funds a mental health self-referral service at the Melbourn Hub once a month on a Thursday [see page 59]. We’ve asked for a funding position update from CCC. Jose Hales, District Councillor jose@josehales.me.uk, 07703 262649 Philippa Hart, District Councillor philippajoyhart@gmail.com, 07811 323571 Susan van de Ven, County Councillor susanvandeven5@gmail.com, 07905 325574

South Cambs Magazine I’m sure ours is not the only household in the village that no longer receives copies of the South Cambs Magazine. If you still wish to read the magazine, the Autumn 2018 issue is now available online: www.scambs.gov.uk/media/12126/final-proof-south-cambs-magazineautumn-2018-small.pdf.

Kathryn Betts Editor 41

News From Heidi Allen, MP www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk It really doesn’t seem possible that we have reached November – where has this year gone!? Don’t even tell me how many days there are until Christmas!!

October was a very busy month and as my newsletter can only ever provide a snapshot of my work, I would always recommend that you keep an eye on my website which is updated regularly with information about my work locally and in Westminster – https:// www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/. Over the last month, I have uploaded information about Brexit, local infrastructure projects and a range of news articles, including my speech in the Budget debate about Universal Credit. You can also hear my recent questions to the Prime Minister about Brexit and also sleep-in shifts in the care sector.

As you will know from my last newsletter, I held a public meeting to discuss the state of play regarding Brexit. More than 150 constituents attended, making for a lively and passionate discussion. This type of engagement away from the Westminster bubble is invaluable for me as it helps to ensure I do my very best to represent you. If you were unable to attend, but interested in the debate, you can find video recordings on my website at www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/brexit.

Whatever your views on Brexit, it is important for me to know what you are thinking. As the negotiations with the EU reach their inevitable conclusion, I will let you know about any further meetings I plan to hold.

I am pleased to report that the Health and Social Care Secretary, Matt Hancock accepted my invitation to visit South Cambridgeshire. He began his day with a trip to CMR Surgical Limited who are based on Madingley Road. Their development of surgical robotics will transform how surgery is carried out in hospitals all over the world; it’s real ground breaking stuff. Matt also visited Addenbrooke’s Hospital, the Genome Campus and Granta Medical Practice in Sawston where he heard about their innovative plans to radically improve how primary care is delivered. It is fair to say Matt went home very impressed with our constituency!

On 11th November, I joined villagers to commemorate Remembrance Sunday in Guilden Morden and Elsworth. I always find these services very moving as we come together to remember those who gave their 42

lives in service of our country.

I was particularly honoured to be asked to unveil an extraordinarily beautiful memorial in the church at Guilden Morden (pictured right). If you are in the area, I would recommend that you stop by to take a look.

Did you know there is a Royal British Legion drop-in service which meets at the John Huntingdon Centre, 189 High Street, Sawston, CB22 3HJ between 10am and noon on the 4th Thursday of each month?

Available to anybody who has served in the British Armed Forces and their families, it provides a place to drop in for a chat or to access the wide range of services offered by the Royal British Legion.

The RBL offer an amazing service – well done to everybody involved.

Digital connectivity is vital to all of our local businesses. The Government’s Gigabit Voucher Scheme is offering small and medium sized businesses vouchers of up to £3000 to cover the cost of installing Gigabit-capable broadband. Businesses can claim against the cost of connection either individually or as part of a group. Residents can also benefit from the scheme as part of a group project which includes businesses, and can claim a voucher of up to £500.

One gigabit is the same as 1,000 megabits – so it’s a big leap forward in connection speeds that could benefit your business into the future. To check if you are eligible for a voucher and find a local full fibre broadband supplier, visit https://gigabitvoucher.culture.gov.uk/ If there is anything you would like to talk to me about, my next “drop in” surgery is on Saturday 1st December in Sawston at the Parish Council office, Link Road, CB22 3GB 10.30am - 12.30pm. If you’d prefer a particular time slot, I’m holding a “by appointment” surgery on 11th January from 3.00 to 5.00pm at my office in Hardwick. If you would like an appointment, please call my office. You can find more details on my website here: https://www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/ residents-drop-surgeries.

In the meantime, if you would like to contact me, please email heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk or call my office on 01223 830037. See you next month!

Heidi Allen, MP 43

t! o h be with

Slimming World MELDRETH WEDNESDAY 5.30pm & 7.30pm Meldreth Village Hall High Street, Tel: Alison 07812 825 389 slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000

44

Friends of Maycroft Dear Friends. Recently we saw mention of a national search for the oldest tree in the British Isles. Our thoughts turned to our venerable horse chestnut more familiarly known as a conker tree, which though ancient, was we quickly realised a mere youngster when some of the mighty oaks were spreading their branches.

A Meldreth resident recently told us of collecting conkers from our tree to prepare them for the conker season. It seemed games went in seasons, marbles at certain times etc. His story told of preparing his conkers by first piercing the conker with a meat skewer (remember those?) and then baking in the oven. Those were the days of simple home made pleasures.

Which brings us to bonfire night; ‘please to remember the 5th November, gunpowder, treason and plot’. We duly remembered in great style. Alastair set up and ran a gorgeous display with magnificent echoing bangs, sprays of sparkling star showers hurled high into the air, followed by a tea, bangers in a roll with fried onions. Thoroughly enjoyed by all.

So Autumn is well upon us, though recent weeks have been warm with blue skies and scudding clouds. Still time to get the garden tidy.

Best wishes from all at Maycroft.

Carol and Ray

The Walk for Alzheimer's Research Thank you to all those who contributed to this wonderful cheque that we were able to present following our sponsored walk around the village in August. As promised here is a photograph of those who took part.

Rosemary Childerley Friends of Maycroft 45

Notes from a Small Garden These notes will be brief this month as we will be away in Nepal when copy needs to be in.

I went to visit Jim today. His garden looked a picture with Michaelmas daisies, evening primroses, borage, cosmos, and carnations all showing up well. The veg. patch was in good shape too with the beautiful red Swiss chard eighteen inches high and with nice fat stems. In his sitting room I spied this verse:

Garden Rules Listen to the birds Feel the breeze Read a book Take a nap Sip a drink and RELAX! I have been ‘putting the garden to bed’ before we go away. I’ve been caught out before, when the frost killed some my favourite geraniums.

My problem always is to remember who gave me the cutting originally; I should keep a record in my garden diary. All the geraniums and marguerites are safely cut back and in the garden room. This year I have tried to keep the scarlet ivy leaved geraniums going under cover till next year, but haven’t found room for the white ones yet! When we get back I shall start compost spreading.

The tomatoes are still ripening in the kitchen and taste delicious. Often they are rather dry and shrivelled. I have bought honesty plants in and will remove the seeds leaving the silvery middles for decorating the house. Our variegated holly has some berries and I’ve seen some trees in the village laden with them. One of my favourite things to do before Christmas is to walk down the lane and find branches of the Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) and wild rose hips.

Happy Christmas and don’t forget to look at the Veg Club Plus tree at the Christmas Tree Festival. And good gardening from Jim and me!

This month’s Veg Club Plus meeting will take place on Saturday 8th December at 10.00am at Betty Ng’s home, 5 Chiswick End. Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk (01763) 260323 46

The Most Thorough Clean or it’s Free!

Carpet, Upholstery, Leather, Rug & Stone/Tile Cleaning Call today on 01223 863 632 Please quote “Meldreth Mag” Denny Lodge Business Park, Ely Road, Chittering

JEWELLERY and SEWING TUTOR Hello, my name is Debbie, I run Jewellery and Sewing workshops from a fully equipped studio in North End, Meldreth.

Jewellery workshops can be booked via dvejewelleryclasses@outlook.com My website with all workshop information is dvejewelleryclasses.com Facebook: facebook.com/DVEJewelleryTutor/

47

Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk The following events are being planned for 2019: Saturday 19th January - Annual Supper Starting with bubbly and light canapés and followed by two courses and wine, coffee and mints and a table quiz. More details in the January issue.

Thursday 21st February (tbc) - Remap An illustrated talk about the work of a UK charity with skilled volunteers who custom-make equipment for disabled people, helping them achieve independence and a better quality of life.

Thursday 21st March - ‘TEU World Tour’ by Peter Hesketh.

A circumnavigation of the world by container ships, positively not a cruise. Re-scheduled from last October.

Friday 10th May - AGM Sunday 2nd June - Open Gardens Sunday 22nd September - 15th Churchyard Car Show Events tickets are usually available from the following: Mary Gregory - (01763) 260120, John Price - (01763) 260048, Peter Chilvers - (01763) 260742 John Price

Meldreth WI It was definitely an evening of concentration as our speaker for the evening, Helen Piggot, moved from table to table attempting to show us the art of card making. It was like an adult form of ‘Blue Peter’ complete with ‘sticky back tape’. However, there were some good finished cards.

It is our Christmas party next month with lots of food and entertainment. Ladies, please don’t forget your cutlery and the earlier start time of 7.15pm.

Jane and the committee would like to wish all members and friends a Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2019.

Kathleen Thompson 48

Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group Our October meeting was held in All Saint’s Community Hall when we met and prepared our decorations ready for the Christmas Tree Festival at Meldreth Church at Advent. Our thanks go to Angela for the preparation of labels for the evening and to Avril and Pauline for supplying the drinks and biscuits.

We do not meet in December but we will be well prepared for the business of the Advent Season after our talk by Alan Hay in November.

Our January meeting will be on Tuesday 22nd January 2019 at All Saints Community Hall and this will also be our AGM. We will hear brief reports, appoint the committee, choose a charity to support for the year and then we will have a bring and share supper. There will also be a raffle to start the fund raising for the newly selected charity.

All Saints Bazaar will be a dim and distant memory by the time this article comes out but we would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who helped with our jewellery stall at the bazaar, whether you were serving, donating or buying, so a big thank you to you all.

We are a small friendly group and we meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month except in December; we vary our venue between All Saints Community Hall in Melbourn and Holy Trinity Church Meeting Room in Meldreth. We either have a guest speaker or in-house entertainment followed by tea/coffee and biscuits. There is a fee of £1 on the evening and a chance to make a donation to our charity of the year.

If you would like to know more about the group or require a lift to a meeting please contact one of the committee members: Pat Smith (01763) 262575, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Anne Harrison (01763) 261775, Angela Leach (01763) 262793, Pat Ames (01763) 261130 or Kimmi Crosby.

Pat Smith

Did You Know?

Meldreth Matters is also available online. To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow us on Issuu: https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters.

49

Melbourn and District Photographic Club melbournphotoclub.com

As one year ends and another begins, we have a full and varied programme for mid -winter including two lectures, two competitions, one club evening and one workshop.

Please note that the club will not meet on 25th December, 1st January and 8th January due to the Club Christmas recess and meal.

December’s programme is as follows: 4th: 2nd Open Print Competition. Judge: Adrian Stone 11th: Club Evening. Lightroom from Start to Finish – Keith Truman 18th: London Light / London Life. Lecture by Chris Shepherd 25th: Christmas Recess 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 to see some of our work should visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com or email me, the club Secretary, at melbournphotoclub@hotmail.com.

Peter North Club Secretary

Arctic Fox by Alan Linsdell

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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.

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Neighbourhood Watch Not all messages are scams!

Every month in these articles, we warn you about text messages or emails or phone calls that are fraudulent and are trying to trap the unwary. However, you may receive communications from your bank or credit card company that are genuine; here are some examples of genuine messages: ďƒž You may receive a text message containing details of a new one off payment or standing order from your bank account. Your bank is telling you this to check whether the transaction is genuine or fraudulent. The text will not contain any contact details. ďƒž You may receive a text message telling you about a recent card transaction and asking you to reply with Y if you made the transaction or N if you don't recognise it. The text will not contain any contact details. It is safe to text back with Y or N, because you aren't giving away any personal information by simply replying. ďƒž You may receive a text or email informing you that a new credit card statement is available and inviting you to log onto the website. The message may or may not contain an address to use to access the website.

One feature of genuine messages is that they tend not to ask you to click a link or call a number, and definitely do not ask you to enter any personal information. If you receive a message claiming to be from your bank or credit card company, you should always contact them using the number on the back of your credit or debit card; do not use any number that is in the message. Even if you think the message is genuine, it is a good habit to use the contact number from your card so that you are not caught out by a fraudulent message.

If you're not sure whether an email or text message is genuine, talk to someone else for advice; there are a number of trusted contacts in Meldreth who you can talk to about a possible scam: Graham (01763) 260358 Linda (01763) 261405 Peter (01763) 260323 Tim (01763) 262801 52

Always report scams to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk. The Newsroom on the same website also contains details of recent scams and advice on how to avoid being scammed.

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

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch

Traditional Burns Night Supper Saturday, 26th January 7.00pm – 11.30pm Village Hall, Green End, Comberton The event, which is known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere, will be jointly hosted by the NSPCC and ‘Assist a Child to School’ Charities. There will be a three-course traditional Burns supper with wines and a wee dram, poetry and speeches, followed by Scottish folk dancing. Dress code is formal/traditional.

Tickets cost £50 per person. Individual bookings are welcome and there are also tables available if you wish to book for a group. If you would like tickets, please email cfm.armstrong@gmail.com. Places are limited and last year the event was fully booked before the end of December!

Kate Armstrong NSPCC Cambridgeshire Branch 53

PC Repairs Advice & Installation of Home Networks

Nigel Wigg

Help with Selecting a computer

Home Improvement Specialist

Fault Finding

• Exterior and interior home

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

decorating • Tiling • Carpentry • Refurbishment • Timber carport and veranda design and construction • General home repairs • Pruning / hedge and tree trimming • Professional service

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 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

nigelwigg@gmail.com T 01480 700266 M 07801 057514

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

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 54

Meldreth Tennis Club www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub Autumn Tournament After rain stopped play on the original day of the Autumn tournament, the rescheduled date on Saturday 20th October saw wall-to-wall sunshine for the last Club Tournament of the year.

Eighteen players (pictured below) took to the courts to battle for the two new trophies. After a great afternoon of tennis - helped by biscuits and bucks fizz - the groups were whittled down to two finalist pairs Richard and Sue Evans against Sheila Guitard and Christine Knight.

This proved to be a very close match, going to the wire with sudden death deuces and a last game decider. Richard and Sue clinched the win and were awarded the trophies and a bottle of wine. Sheila and Christine were presented with the runners-up chocolates.

Meldreth Tennis Club has now celebrated one year on their newly refurbished courts and this year’s membership is still over 100, consisting of all ages. The Club runs friendly social sessions for adults and families and also has a coaching programme for all ages and levels. The current mini and junior coaching programme runs until the 14th December. Adult coaching sessions will begin in the new year.

For full details please visit the Club’s website at www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub.

Christine Knight 55

Cambridge South West (M11) Park and Ride Consultation Please note: This summary is an extract from a Greater Cambridge Partnership communication.

The existing Trumpington Park & Ride site is already the busiest in the city and often full by midday. With growth planned in Cambridge, a need for more Park & Ride provision in the area near the M11 Junction 11 has been identified. This project is one of a number of schemes being put forward by the Greater Cambridge Partnership, which seeks to create better and greener transport network fit for the future to serve a compact historic city with a range of rural towns and villages.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership is consulting on more Park & Ride spaces south west of Cambridge and bus priority into the city centre through to Friday 21st December.

Two options for the creation of more Park & Ride spaces are being put forward:  Option 1 is to create a multi-storey car park on the existing Park & Ride site at Trumpington;  Option 2 is the creation of a new Park & Ride site, north west of M11 Junction 11.

These options are supported by a range of potential access arrangements for private vehicle traffic and public transport.

The GCP is also calling for input on how bus journeys along Hauxton Road, Trumpington High Street and Trumpington Road can be improved with additional priority for buses into the city centre.

Please note this consultation is separate from approved works to expand the current Trumpington Park & Ride site by 274 spaces and five bus spaces, which aims to help alleviate demand pressures on the busiest of Cambridge’s Park & Ride sites in the short term.

56

We will be holding exhibitions at the following locations: Location

Date

Time

Address

Trumpington Village Hall

Thursday 29th 75 High Street,Trumpington 5.30-8.00pm November CB2 9HZ

Addenbrooke’s Wednesday 5 Treatment Centre December

12:00-14:00

Keith Day Road, Cambridge CB2 0SL

Harston Village Hall

18:00-20:00

20 High Street, Harston, Cambridge CB22 7PX

Thursday 6 December

You can find out more about www.greatercambridge.org.uk/parkandride.

the

consultation

at

Greater Cambridge Partnership

Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address

Detail

Parish Council Recommend

1A Chiswick Erection of a End, garage S/3650/18/FL

Parish Council recommend ‘Support’ with no comments

17 Thatcher Stanfords Close, Melbourn, S/3675/18/FL

Parish Council recommend ‘No Recommendation’ with no comments.

Though this application is for Melbourn it is on the boundary of the two villages and therefore Meldreth are invited to comment.

Single storey rear extension and first floor extension over existing garage

The full minutes of Meldreth Parish Council planning meetings are available on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

There are no SCDC decisions 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 57

Home-Start Matters Charity Song Recording Joe Rose, better known as local accountant John Froggett, has been lured into the recording studio! Joe has performed a rendition of a famous song in aid of our branch of Home-Start and had fun filming a lively, laughter filled video to support it, which includes an ‘all-star cast’ of extras from twenty seven local businesses!

We are happy to share the video and links to buy the track, Can’t Help Falling in Love, and thank anyone who feels moved to support this lovely initiative. Visit https://youtu.be/DTTxHPzBIsE. Snowflake Tea Parties Snowflake Tea Parties – could you help raise funds for Home-Start by hosting a tea party with your family and friends from your office, playgroup, school, book club etc.?

We will supply you with a “tea bag” fundraising pack with ideas for all you need to host an event the pack includes invites for your use, a snowflake cutter and recipes for any cakes or biscuits you may want to make for your event.

If you would like to host a tea party, please telephone our office on (01763) 262262 or email admin@hsrsc.org.uk.

Volunteers We are looking for Home Visiting Volunteers in the Buntingford and Royston area. Our volunteers are all parents or grandparents who can give a few hours a week to help families who are finding it difficult to cope.

A nine-session training course for new volunteers will run from 9.30am to 2.30pm on 28th and 29th January, 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 25th and 26th February and 4th March 2019.

For more details, please contact Sarah or Jackie on (01763) 262262 or email admin@hsrsc.org.uk.

Tracy Aggett Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire 58

Mind Mental Health Service at the Melbourn Hub A very good, free mental health service is provided by Mind at the Melbourn Hub, once a month on a Thursday. To make a referral, including for yourself, please ring (01223) 311320 to speak to the wellbeing team, or alternatively you can send an email to wellbeing@cpslmind.org.uk. More information about the service is given below.

Do you experience mental distress? Does this stop you achieving what you want to in life? Are you aged 18-64? The CPSL Mind Wellbeing Service is providing a service in Melbourn to support people whose lives are affected by mental health issues.

The service aims to help people who want to achieve better mental health, by encouraging individuals to build their own emotional and practical coping strategies.

We will do this through six 1:1 goal-focussed sessions.

You can find out more here: https://www.cpslmind.org.uk/what-we-do/wellbeing-service.

Susan van de Ven County Councillor

Recognising the Signs of a Stroke The signs and symptoms of a stroke vary but usually begin suddenly.

The main stroke symptoms can be remembered with the word

F.A.S.T.: Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.

Arms – the person with a suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.

Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake.

Time – it's time to dial 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.

For more information and other possible symptoms, visit www.nhs.uk.

Source: NHS Website—www.nhs.uk 59

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 * 60

Stay Safe This Christmas Christmas is fast approaching: 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.

Half 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 under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication that makes 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 for too long.  Oven chips or temperature control deep fat fryers are safer than using a chip pan. If you do use a chip pan, do not fill it more than one third full and turn the heat down if the oil starts smoking.  Fire can break out in household appliances so you should regularly maintain dishwashers, washing machines and driers, never leave them on if you go out or go to bed and register your appliances online to ensure you are made aware of any faults or recalls.  Have a working smoke alarm on each floor of your home and never remove the batteries.

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

For more information log on to www.cambsfire.gov.uk, follow us on social media or call (01480) 444500.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue

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

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

John Rogger—(01763) 260809 Marian Oakman—(01763) 261481 (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) 248239 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; https://allsaintsmelbournholytrinitymeldreth.co.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 Councillors

Please see details at end of Parish Council report Philippa Hart—07811 323571 Jose Hales—07703 262649 03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/ Susan van de Ven—07905 325574 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

Childn.

Village Directory

District Council Offices County Councillor County Council Offices MP

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Transport Health Support Services Emergencies NonEmerg.

Misc.

Station Ticket Office

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 7-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.25pm

Rail User Group

07905 325574; www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk

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)

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

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Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request.

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

Abode Town & Country .................51 Affordable Plumbing .......................16 AngliEAR Hearing ....................Cover Art of Clean ....................................47 Art of Clean Wood ..........................31 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) .........34 B2B Automotive ..............................60 Black Barn Turkeys ...................Cover C & D Autos ...................................31 Cam Valley Orchards .......................4 Cambourne Self Storage ..................23 Cambridge Solar .............................22 Cambridge Sunblinds ......................60 CHS Day Centre ..............................4 CHS Group ....................................54 Coton Electrical ..............................22 The Country Store ...........................38 Dog Walker/Animal Sitter ...............31 Ely Design Group .............................4 Gilhooly ..........................................34 The Green Lounge ...........................11 iPlaster ............................................31 Jewellery & Sewing Tutor ...............47 Lawn Partners ...................................4

The Letting Centre ...........................38 Little Hands Nursery School ............54 Melbourn Flooring ...........................51 Melbourn Village College (1) ............11 Melbourn Village College (2) ............47 Meldreth Landscapes .......................16 Meldreth Plant Hire .........................29 Moncraft Computers ........................54 Nancy Foster Footcare .....................47 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service44 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......54 Penn Farm Physiotherapy .................44 Polished Nails & Beauty ..................22 Reflections Hair Studio ....................31 Richard Burns Electrician ..................11 Rod’s PC Support .......................Cover Royston Fencing ...............................11 Shelford Energy ................................11 Slimming World ...............................44 Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ..............31 Summit Landscapes ...........................38 Village Garden Services ....................38 Walkers Partnership Solicitors ....Cover Yoga2 Classes ..................................16 64

WALKERS PARTNERSHIP SOLICITORS DO YOU NEED TO MAKE OR UPDATE YOUR WILL? MAKE IT YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION!!

We offer a FREE ini al appointment to discuss your circumstances, offering advice on Wills including ring-fencing your home from care and guidance regarding Inheritance Tax Nil Rate Bands.

HOME VISITS are available at NO EXTRA CHARGE within a 20-mile Radius of Royston, Saturday morning appointments also available at the office* FREE WILL SERVICE for the over 55s through the Cancer Research Free Will Scheme.

For more information please contact:Fish Hill Chambers, 2-3 Fish Hill, Royston, Herts SG8 9JY Tel: 01763 241 121 t.pilcher@walkerspartnership.co.uk Wills | Probate | Lasting Powers of Attorney | Conveyancing | Commercial Property *Home visit appointments are subject to availability, Saturdays by appointment only, not available every Saturday

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

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