Meldreth Matters, December 2021

December 2021

In this issue …

Christmas Cheer Boxes Letters to the Editor MLHG Christmas Merchandise

Events …

Advent Trail Carol Singing MADS Cabaret

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Contents Children & Education 1st Melbourn Guides 47 1st Orwell Scouts 41-43 Activities for Families 38 Baby & Toddler Group 45 Primary School 34-35 Primary School PTA 36 Shepreth Spitfires 44-45

What’s On in December Advent Trail 37 Carol Singing 7 MADS Cabaret 6 Santa Sleigh Routes 39 Things to Do in December 12-13 Village Diary 32-33 Village Groups Friends of Holy Trinity 16 Lift Off Choir 16 Meldreth Marvels 19 Photographic Club 18 Women’s Group 17

Transport Community Transport 24 Rail News 24 Local/National Government Local Councillors 52-55 Parish Council 9, 48-51 Planning 56-57 SWCAG 14

Gardens & Nature Gardening 30-31 Harvest Time 31

Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 64 Coronavirus Support 60-61 Healthwatch 59 Mobile Warden Scheme 25 Neighbourhood Watch 58-59 Refuse Collections 8, 33 Village Directory 62-63

Cookery In Praise of … 27-29 Miscellaneous Almshouses: Keith Willers 5 Christmas Cheer Boxes 4 Letters to the Editor 20 Meldreth Parish Charities 23 MLHG Christmas Merchandise 11 Remembrance Sunday 10

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

The last date for copy is the 12th of each month Copy should be submitted by email where possible, to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Alternatively, it may be delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT Tel. (01763) 268428 The Editor reserves the right to withhold from publication or to shorten if necessary, any article or letter sent to her.

1

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Editorial Welcome to the December issue of Meldreth Matters.

There are a few deadlines I’d like to bring to your attention this month. The Local Plan consultation (see page 14) ends on 13th December. Secondly, the MCCS Christmas cheer box appeal (page 4) finishes on 15th December. If you are able to donate some items they would be very gratefully received.

Finally, the Parish Council has a vacancy for a co-opted councillor. The closing date for applications is 17th December. Please see page 9 for details.

I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to and supported Meldreth Matters this year. My thanks go to the rest of the MM Team: Lesley & Robin Farbridge, Richard Burns, Ken McLean, Beverley Cottrell, Maggie Smith and Lesley Pemberton. We are all volunteers and give up our time every month to produce and distribute the magazine. MM relies solely on advertising income for its funding so I would also like to thank all of our advertisers for their support. Please mention MM when responding to any advertisements. Last but not least, a huge thank you to all of our deliverers (named on page 4) who perform the vital final link in the production of the magazine.

On behalf of the MM Team, I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas.

Kathryn

Cover Photograph Front cover: Meldreth Primary School pupils. Illustration by Andrew Jones in 2019. Andrew retired as Deputy Headteacher earlier this year.

Advertising in Meldreth Matters Thank you to all of the advertisers who have supported the magazine this year.

Meldreth Matters is funded solely from advertising revenue, so please support our advertisers and mention MM when responding to any ads.

We have some space available from January 2022. Our rates are shown on page 64 of this issue. In addition, we are offering any new small businesses in Meldreth the opportunity to have a full or half page one-off advertising feature at a special rate. Please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on (01763) 262176 for more information.

The Meldreth Matters Team 3

Meldreth Matters: Deliverers We would like to say a huge “thank you” to the following people who delivered MM during 2021: Ann & Nick Askham, Kathryn & Ralph Betts, Emma Birch, Roger Brown, Jan Butchers, Richard Charter, Linda Clarke, Ron Comben, Beverley Cottrell, Terry Dash, Lawrence & Sharon Dunford, Tina Evenden, Lesley Farbridge, Chris Hill, David Hollamby, Daphne JonesBarrie, Peter Knight, Jean Lawrence, Hilary Marsh, Judy & Ken McLean, Helen Munday, Lesley Pemberton, Bill Peters, Maggie & David Smith, Rosie Smith, Ann Thomson, Claire Thunder, Lin & Roger Wallbridge, the Walter family, Bonny Ward and Nola Willers together with any family members who may have helped them out!

The Meldreth Matters Team

Meldreth Christmas Cheer Boxes Last year the team at Meldreth Coronavirus Community Support organised Christmas cheer boxes to make sure that everyone in our village felt supported and connected at Christmas time.

People were so generous that it was a joy to see our community coming together at an important time of the year. So, we’re getting organised to do the same again this year.

How You Can Help If you’d like to make a contribution, please ring Anne on 07592 355279, or drop by 69 High St (opposite the British Queen) on Tuesdays and Thursdays, where you will find a box just inside the gate by the front door. Something that would be enjoyed by young children would be especially appreciated. If you would like to make a cash donation, please contact our treasurer Roger on 07808 235873. Collections will run until 15th December.

Susan van de Ven Meldreth Coronavirus Community Support

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Long Service and Retirement of Keith Willers On 5th October Keith Willers stood down as a Trustee of the Emilie Agnes Almshouses in Meldreth after 41 years of service.

Keith was co-opted in 1980 for his knowledge of maintenance and repairs.

Peter Chilvers joined him in the same year and retired last year.

From left to right: Hilary Duncan.

Joan Fallon, Keith Willers, Richard Remnant, Iain McPhee

Keith has overseen many changes, from coal fires to gas central heating.

All the Trustees wished Keith well and presented him with a presentation cask of whisky.

The Trustees of the Emilie Agnes Almshouses

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Melbourn Amateur Dramatics Society (MADS) Winter Wonderland Christmas Cabaret 7.00pm, Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th December

The MADS team is back! And we are very excited to bring to Meldreth Village Hall stage this December a sparkly evening of glitz, glamour and entertainment at our Winter Wonderland Christmas Cabaret show.

The evening will consist of a variety of acts to entertain you, including singers, comedians, magicians and so much more. This promises to be truly spectacular evening filled with Christmas fun.

Guests will be seated six people per table. Tables will be appropriately distanced to keep everyone safe! If your group has fewer than six people, please be prepared to share with other ticket buyers on the night.

It’s been a difficult eighteen months for us all and now we are all in need of some Christmas fun so why not come along, dust off those sparkly Christmas outfits and allow yourself to be transported into a magical Christmas Winter Wonderland!

Please book in advance as space is limited. We are all very excited to welcome you back!

There will be a licensed bar, plus there will be a fabulous Christmas hamper to be won on both evenings!

Tickets £15 per person (includes fish and chip supper).

Tickets are available from Melbourn Hub or call the MADS Box Office on 07513 457845.

Donna Sleight MADS Producer 6

Carol Singing at the British Queen Good news - the annual Carol Singing get together will be going ahead, (with a few tweaks) on Monday 20th December at 6.30pm.

Alan is offering as much flexibility for the evening to take place as safely as possible. It would be helpful if masks are worn. The main event will be inside the marquee with two of the sides open. Lights and music will also be relayed to those who would rather remain outside.

We look forward to being together again and seeing as many of you as possible. The local chosen Charity for 2021 will be Home-Start!

Pauline Penfold

The Letting Centre is a dedicated letting agency established for 29 years, operating from High Street premises in Melbourn. We offer an expert, tailored service to suit each clients’ individual needs. Covering Cambridge, Royston, Melbourn and surrounding villages.

Friendly, no obligation advice on how to achieve the best possible return on your rental investment with clear and simple guidance on your legal obligations.

The Letting Centre (Cambridge) Ltd, 107 High Street, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire, SG8 6AP. Tel: 01763 263039. Email: enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk. www.letting-centre.co.uk

Registered Office: The Letting Centre Ltd, 24b Orchard Road, Melbourn, Nr. Royston, Herts. SG8 6HH Tel: 01763 263039 Registered in England No. 4472384 VAT No. 700035112 Director Mrs Angie Rixon E-mail: enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk

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Refuse Collections for December and January Due to the Christmas holiday period, there are some changes to collection dates in December and January. The following information was taken from the South Cambridgeshire District Council website:

Date

Black bin

Blue bin

Green bin

Please note that green bin collections take place monthly from December to March.

To check collection dates, please visit https://www.scambs.gov.uk/ recycling-and-bins/find-your-household-bin-collection-day.

You can also download the SCambs Bin Collections app for your Apple or Android device to receive weekly reminders.

The Meldreth Matters Team

MM is Available in Colour Online To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters 8

MELDRETH PARISH COUNCIL

HAVE YOU THOUGHT OF BECOMING A PARISH COUNCILLOR? THERE IS NOW A VACANCY FOR A CO-OPTED MEMBER Closing Date: Friday 17th December 2021

If you are interested, or would like further details, please contact the Parish Clerk: Mrs Judy Damant, Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston, SG8 6LT Tel: (01763) 269928

Email: parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk

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Remembrance Sunday: A Community Event A big thank you to everyone who helped with the refreshments at the Village Hall after the Act of Remembrance in Meldreth on Sunday 14th November.

Kath and Sharon served tea, coffee and cake, Joan lent her stylish tablecloths and handmade poppies; we all sampled delicious baked goods from the Meldreth Manor kitchen - brought in person by the resident bakers (thanks for organising, Nadine) and the many others who provided such delicious cakes. It was so very kind and we had a fantastic array of tasty nibbles from the 1st Meldreth Brownies to hand round throughout.

Our grateful thanks also go to Meldreth Parish Council for supporting the event by covering the hall hire and other expenses.

There was a poignant start to the morning as we first joined in the Act of Remembrance at the war memorial before going on to have refreshments at the village hall. It was lovely to be together again as a village after so long apart, catching up with old friends and making new ones as well.

Join us next year!

Maggie & Lindsey P.S. we would like to thank Rhys, Theo and Aeron who put up the streamers with such flair!

Photographs: Meldreth War Memorial on Sunday 14th November 2021 Photographs by Tim Gane 10

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Things to Do in December Here are some of the things happening in December in the local area.

Local Coronavirus restrictions and conditions may still apply - please check before you book. If you want to let us know about any future event or activity please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Wednesday 1st December 7.00pm to 8.00pm ZoologiCOOL - Winter Wildlife Event Livestream YouTube event How do animals adapt to the cold of winter; are their migrations affected by climate change and are reindeer really the best animals to pull Santa’s sleigh? Put your questions to our winter wildlife experts.

Free, online: www.museums.cam.ac.uk/events/zoologicool-winterwildlife-event.

Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th December, 10.00am to 5.00pm Christmas Woodturning Gallery and Sale 7 Heathfield, Royston SG8 5BW Unique, unusual and high quality woodturned items including bowls, platters and vases made from native timbers - ideal as Christmas presents. Donation made to local charity from proceeds. www.thelistingmagazine.co.uk/event/christmas-wood-turning-gallery.

Saturday 4th December, 11.00am to 4.00pm Barley Christmas Market Barley Town House and Church, Church End, Barley SG8 8JW Crafts, collectables, charities, and other interesting stalls plus raffle and refreshments. Organised by and in aid of Barley Church. Free event in lovely setting. See www.thelistingmagazine/whatson.

Saturday 4th December, 7.30pm to 10.30pm ‘The Holiday’ - Cinema Night with Buntingford Film Club Community Centre, Luynes Rise, Buntingford SG9 9SG Pop-up cinema with bar selling drinks and popcorn. Tickets £8 with proceeds in aid of Home-Start Royston, Buntingford and South Cambridgeshire. Book on www.hsrsc.org.uk/event/cinema-night.

Sunday 5th December, 12.00pm to 6.00pm South Cambridgeshire Christmas Market Cambourne High Street, Cambridge CB23 6GW An afternoon of festive fun with over 100 independent business stalls 12

offering crafts, novelties and gift ideas, plus food and drink, live music and children’s funfair. www.scambs.gov.uk/ChristmasMarketStalls.

Wednesday 8th December, 10.00am to 12.00pm Winter Tree Walk Wandlebury Country Park, Gog Magog Hills, CB23 3AE Learn how to identify our native trees using bark, buds, shape and form. Guided walk around Wandlebury led by one of the wardens.

Meet at noticeboard in car park. Free but donations welcome.

Friday 10th December, 10.30am to 12.30pm Muse - art workshop at Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Have a go at creating your own illuminated page! Sketch book and art supplies provided. Tickets £10. www.tickets.museums.cam.ac.uk.

Friday 10th & Saturday 11th December, 7.30pm A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Cambridge Leper Chapel, Newmarket Road, CB5 8JJ See the play as Dickens performed it himself, one man, one stage, over 20 characters. Martin Prest brings Dickens’ timeless story of redemption to life - the perfect start to any Christmas. Adults £15, Under 18s and students £10. To book visit www.cambridgeppf.org.

Saturday 11th to Wednesday 22nd December, 11.00am to 2.30pm 12 Days of Christmas at Ickworth House The Rotunda, Horinger, Bury Saint Edmunds gIP29 5QE Ickworth House is opening its doors in time for Christmas. View the entrance hall with magnificent tree and state rooms decorated with festive displays. Watch presents being wrapped, the table being laid with festive treats and candles twinkling as they would have done in the early 1930s. Normal National Trust Admission applies.

Sunday 19th December 2021, 7.30pm Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Christmas Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4DL The Cathedral walls will resound to the music of Vivaldi, Corelli and Mozart performed by exciting young ensemble the Piccadilly Sinfonietta. A programme of well-loved classics for which early booking is advisable. Tickets £38, £29 and £19 from www.ticketsource.co.uk/cm/vivaldis-four-seasons-at-christmas or box office on 0333 666 3366.

Compiled by John Crawforth 13

South West Cambridge Action Group www.swcag.org.uk Please note that anyone can join the South West Cambridge Action Group mailing list for updates – just drop a line to info@swcag.org.uk.

You’ll find all updates on the News and Events page of www.swcag.org.uk.

As we reported earlier this autumn, in spite of Thakeham’s insistence that it would work within the Greater Cambridge Local Plan structures like everyone else, the Call for Sites stage is now over and Thakeham has still not made a submission to South Cambridgeshire District Council, which holds statutory responsibility for planning.

The Greater Cambridge Local Plan, the statutory framework for development, is produced jointly by South Cambridgeshire District Council and Cambridge City Council and must follow accountable democratic processes. This Plan is being built on principles of sustainable development, climate change and water resource, and affordable housing for a local workforce.

The Plan’s ‘First Proposals’, now out for consultation, do not include land to meet Thakeham’s South West Cambridge new town aspiration.

However, the current consultation period is a window during which new proposals can be brought forward. This is a legal requirement.

So, if you support the First Proposals as they stand, please add your voice by responding to say so! The consultation closes on 13th December.

See the First Proposals and respond to the consultation here: https:// www.greatercambridgeplanning.org/localplan SWCAG continues to watch potential national government channels including the OxCam Arc. The Electoral Commission website has updated Thakeham’s donations to the Conservative Party with another £100,000, bringing the total to approximately £637,000.

Cllrs Susan van de Ven, Jose Hales, Sebastian Kindersley, Peter McDonald and Aidan Van de Weyer www.swcag.org.uk

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Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk We are considering arrangements to enable the Friends to return to events in the church meeting room or the church itself. The former might be too restrictive due to social distancing requirements. The church may be more suitable due to its greater size.

This subject will need to be discussed with the Parochial Church Council in the next few weeks John Price

Lift Off Choir As the winter months continue, it's time for choirs to get festive. At Lift Off Choir, carols appeared in September to allow for adequate rehearsal. Somehow, bringing out the Christmas songs always feels comforting, and much fun and joy has been found revisiting our old favourites. We hope to be able to share our music with the community in December if restrictions allow.

Lift Off Choir, is a friendly group which meets on Wednesdays during term time, from 1.30-2.30pm in Meldreth Village Hall. We are always open to new members joining us. All abilities are welcome.

Clare Silver 07548 247755

PC Repairs Advice & Installation of Home Networks

To advertise in this space, call Beverley Cottrell on (01763)262176 or email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com

Help with Selecting a computer Fault Finding Brian Girling 01223 208529 (Wimpole) E-mail bg@moncraft.co.uk We can also provide the following services: Design of brochures, posters, business cards, etc.

A4/A3 laminating • A4 comb-Binding Small print runs on A6 to A3 media

See our rates on page 64 16

Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group In October, eleven of us met to make Christmas decorations for our tree at The Christmas Tree Festival in Holy Trinity Church, Meldreth.

Our theme was stars and on the back of some of them, we wrote some of the things that have helped us get through Covid-19. The stars are the symbols of hope in a difficult time, rather like the hope that the star offered to the Wise Men In November we will have listened to the Reverend Caroline Brownlie leading us on an advent reflection. In December we do not have a meeting so we next meet on Tuesday 25th January 2022 when we hope to have our AGM in All Saint’s Community Hall, Melbourn. We will conduct our formal business of accepting the accounts and reports, electing a committee, choosing a charity to support for 2022 and receiving the programme for the year. We hope to have a bring-andshare supper afterwards but all meetings are dependent on what restrictions/guidelines are in effect for Covid-19.

We are a small informal group which meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except in December), we charge £1 on the night and there is an option to donate to the charity which we are supporting. We vary our venue between All Saints Church Hall in Melbourn and Meldreth’s Holy Trinity Church meeting room and meetings start at 7.45pm.

If you would like to know anything more about the group please contact one of the committee members whose details are given below: Pat Smith (01763) 262575 Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Angela Leach (01763) 262793, Pat Ames (01763) 261130, Kimmi Crosby 07976 228377, Mary Bailey (01763) 220171 or Diane Blundell (01763) 221415 Pat Smith

17

Melbourn and District Photographic Club As we approach year end, we continue our mid-winter programme with lectures, competitions and a club evening. Please note that the club will not meet on 21st and 28th December and 4th January due to the Club Christmas recess and meal.

December meetings are as follows: 7th

Open Mono Competition. Judge: Jonathan Vaines

8th

Melbourn vs Afan Nedd interclub. Judge: TBD

14th

POV Judging (POV photo event to be scheduled) Neural Filters. Lecture by Peter North

21st & 28th Christmas Recess Meetings are held weekly from 7.309.30pm on Tuesdays in Foxton Village Hall, from September to April.

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

Porth Nanven by Ian Tulloch

For details about the Club, and to see some of our work, visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com. If you are interested in joining, we are happy for you to join us for up to two meetings free of charge before deciding.

To do this, please email me at melbournphotoclub@hotmail.com.

Peter North Secretary Melbourn & District Photographic Club

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Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group We had another bright sunny start for our cycle ride on Tuesday 2nd November. We met outside Meldreth’s Holy Trinity Church, where we held a one minute silence for one of our most supportive and enthusiastic members, John Meadows, who had died so unexpectedly on the previous Saturday.

John was a fountain of knowledge on any cycling matter and it was always a joy to have him and his wife Jill with us on our rides.

We will all miss him terribly.

We reminisced during our break at Burwash Manor and we hope to comfort Jill on our future rides.

Our thoughts are with Jill and the family.

Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

Visit the new local history website

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Over 600 pages on Meldreth, past and present See the Meldreth Today section for information on footpaths * facilities * over 25 local clubs & groups 19

Letters to the Editor The Oxford-Cambridge Arc Consultation I would like to thank the Parish Council for the excellent article on the above in the November issue. The complexity of the various 'development' proposals which are in the offing is baffling and I am very grateful that there are people who are prepared to give up their valuable time in trying to unravel the issues on behalf of the rest of us.

The Government seems intent on concreting over most of Cambridgeshire and we really need to understand what is going on and to make sure that we are represented. The Parish Council's powers in this matter are limited but it is certainly not limited in its ability to keep us informed about what is going on in our precious villages and I am delighted that it is doing just that!

David Smith Meldreth #Together Group I was extremely perturbed to see Meldreth Matters publicising the Meldreth #Together group. This is a political campaign and I did not believe that Meldreth Matters would be used in this way.

The declaration that readers are invited to support equates vaccine passports to actions by totalitarian regimes. On the contrary, vaccine passports are designed to keep vulnerable people safe by giving them the reassurance that they are less likely to be infected by the deadly COVID virus when they leave their homes.

The suggestion that vaccine passports will lead to people being denied access to healthcare has no basis. On the contrary, people are being denied access to healthcare because people refusing the vaccine and behaving irresponsibly are taking valuable NHS resources when they catch COVID. I grew up under the type of suppression, segregation and surveillance society that the writer mentions. Vaccine passports are not the same as the perils of living under an oppressive regime.

If vaccine passports are introduced, this will be to protect the vulnerable in society. Surely we should all support this.

Ruth Katz 20

A Little Help From My Friends Required …

Would anyone with a car that’s large enough (or a car with a small trailer) be able to help a fellow Meldreth resident get a double mattress to the tip? If so, this person would be most grateful. Please feel free to contact me and I will help liaise.

Thank you.

Susan van de Ven 07905 325574

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MM is Available in Colour Online To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters 21

Whaddon Road, Meldreth, SG8 5RL

Club Facili es

Entertainments

Licensed bar Hall available for private hire for any occasion (compe ve rates) Fully equipped gymnasium (annual subscrip on) Snooker room, Pool table Large children's outdoor ac vity area Petanque pistes Football pitches, changing rooms

1st Friday of the month Melbourn Rock Club One Saturday a month Melbourn Rock Club Rock and Roll Night Every Thursday night Eternit bingo—starts 7.30pm Local gig venue

Big charity events during the year Motorcycle Rally - Air Ambulance - Mini Chill weekend - Camping - Local Chari es Club Charity - LUPUS

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Meldreth Parish Charities Charity Number: 233979 comprising: Robert Halfhead (1658) Lettice Martin (1562) James Addlestone (1723) These ancient bequests were set up to provide an annual income which was originally disbursed at the discretion of the Trustees. Over time, this purpose was modified by the introduction of the Welfare State and Social Benefits and subsequently the Trustees have been able to use the annual income to provide assistance to residents who have a particular need.

A reminder that we are here to help: There is money available from these historic bequests to help Meldreth residents or village organisations with a particular financial need that cannot be met through normal sources of income or support.

Examples:  Provision of books /equipment for students  Costs involved in hospital visits, medical prescriptions  Special payments to help in cases of financial need or  Support in the case of illness or infirmity Applications are invited and can be made to any of the Trustees or the Clerk. Applications are, of course, treated as strictly confidential.

Trustees: Mrs Ann Askham (01763) 262133 Mrs Jane Bates (01763) 261638 Mr Graham Borgonon (01763) 260358 Mrs Joan Fallon (01763) 262822 Theresa O’Malley Clerk to the Trustees (01763) 260433 23

Something to Celebrate: the return of half-hourly trains We’re delighted to report that after many representations to Govia Thameslink, the half-hourly weekday train service is set to resume on 12th December. This service had been suspended due to a severe workforce shortage resulting from Covid, but the situation has improved enough to bring it back. We’re really grateful to Govia Thameslink for paying close attention to our small station services and to rail users for making their voices heard.

We do need to see passenger figures rise to make the service truly sustainable. Hopefully the restoration of normal service will allow that to happen.

Susan van de Ven and Sarah Grove, Meldreth Shepreth and Foxton Rail User Group railusergroup@gmail.com

Drivers Wanted www.roytrans.co.uk Do you like helping people? Have you a few hours to spare?

Do you hold a full driving licence? Do you have a 4-door car?

If you can answer “yes” to these questions, then you could be just who we are looking for to help us provide transport for people who are unable to use conventional public transport. You would use your own car and receive 50p per mile. Personal accident and public liability insurance is provided through the scheme.

As a volunteer you would tell us when you are available, and you may refuse a drive if it is suddenly not possible for you.

For further information please call our office on (01763) 245228 between 9.00am and 3.00pm or email us at info@roytrans.co.uk.

Royston and District Community Transport www.roytrans.co.uk 24

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme Supporting people in Melbourn, Meldreth & Shepreth Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour?

What is the service?

We offer twice weekly visits and daily phone calls to support elderly or mobility impaired residents in their own homes by building a friendship and helping prevent social isolation. We can carry out errands such as local shopping, collecting prescriptions, paying bills or going to the Post Office so people can remain supported and independent at home. We can also help couples or those living with their family. We are also trained to support people living with dementia.

Who provides the services?

Mobile wardens, who have all been carefully selected for their caring nature and are DBS checked.

What will it cost?

We do make a small charge for the services, which is from as little as £7.50 per week.

How can I join?

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

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme is a registered charity

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26

In Praise Of … … Apples and Oranges This month we showcase two fruits. Apples are in season and can be used for so many desserts and oranges, which some people say are a little symbol of the summer sun to reassure us that the days will soon be getting longer. Oranges are a fruit for Christmas and work well with both sweet and savoury dishes. They are often found in children’s Christmas stockings….

Here are three recipes to celebrate apples and oranges in all their glory.

Enjoy.

Date, Chocolate and Orange Christmas Cake Prep time 30 minutes; cooking time 2 hours, 30 minutes. Serves 4 Ingredients 3 medium eggs, beaten 200g plain flour 50g ground almonds 2 tbsp cocoa powder 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp ground ginger ½ tsp ground cloves ½ tsp ground cardamom 120g dark chocolate, roughly chopped

450g medjool dates, pitted 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 200g raisins 150g sultanas 150g dried cranberries 100ml brandy, plus extra to brush 200g dark muscovado sugar 150g unsalted butter Juice and zest of 2 oranges

Method Grease a deep, round 23cm cake tin and line the base and sides with a double layer of baking paper, allowing it to extend about 10cm above the rim. Heat the oven to 140C (130C fan)/300F/gas 2.

Chop the dates into small pieces, put them in a bowl with 250ml boiling water and the bicarb., stir and leave to soak for 10 minutes.

Put all the other dried fruit into a large saucepan with the brandy, sugar, butter, orange zest and juice and simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat, stir in the softened dates and leave to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in the beaten eggs.

27

In a separate bowl, sift the flour, ground almonds, cocoa powder and spices. Pour this into the fruit mixture and stir until fully combined.

Fold in the chopped chocolate, then pour the batter into the prepared cake tin.

Bake the cake for two hours and 15 minutes to two hours and 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Leave to cool in the tin, then make a few holes across the surface with a skewer and brush with a little more brandy. Wrap the cake in greaseproof paper and a layer of foil and store in a cool, dark place until advent.

Goes well with: warmed with brandy butter

Apple and Orange Tarte Tatin Serves 2 - 4. Pre heat oven to 200°C/gas mark 6. Cooking time 30 mins Ingredients 150g caster sugar 25g butter 300g puff pastry 5 golden delicious apples, peeled and cut into quarters Grated zest of 1 orange Method To make the caramel, put the sugar into a 20cm oven proof pan and heat gently without stirring until it turns golden brown. Remove and stir in the butter and grated orange zest.

Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut out a circle slightly larger than the pan.

Place the apples peeled side down into the pan, cover with pastry. Bake in the oven for 25- 30 minutes until the pastry is brown.

Remove the pan from the oven, allow to cool for 2 minutes and then turn out onto a plate.

Goes well with : Orange Chantilly Cream 28

Sticky Orange Cake Serves 6 – 8, cook time 50 minutes Ingredients 2 medium unwaxed oranges 225g caster sugar 1 tbsp honey 6 eggs, separated 150g ground almonds 150g plain flour ¼ tsp salt ½ tsp cinnamon or mixed spice Handful of flaked almonds, toasted

For the syrup 2 ordinary oranges 6 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 1-3 tbsp caster sugar, to taste 2 tbsp candied orange peel

Method Put the oranges for the cake in a small pan and cover with water (they will bob to the top). Cover and bring to the boil, then turn down the heat and simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, turning once, until soft. Drain and allow to cool slightly then cut open to check for pips and puree.

Heat the oven to 180°C, and grease and line a 23cm springform tin.

Beat together the egg yolks, sugar and honey until thick and pale, then fold in the almond, flour and spices, followed by the puree until well combined.

Whisk the egg whites and salt until stiff, then gradually fold into the batter, being careful to knock as little air out as possible. Spoon into the tin and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until firm on top.

Meanwhile, squeeze the fruit for the syrup into a pan and add the cardamom and a spoonful of sugar. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then taste and add more sugar as necessary. Add the peel then allow to cool.

When the cake comes out of the oven, leave it in the tin and make a few holes in the top with a skewer. Pour over the syrup a little at a time, and allow to sink in, then scatter with almonds and leave to cool completely before transferring to a plate.

Goes well with: vanilla ice cream Jane O’Hagan 29

Notes from a Small Garden As I write this on a mild November morning, the sun is lighting up the golden autumn colouring of the Parrotia tree. Such a gladsome sight which invites me into the garden to look around and think what to tackle next.

First are the paving stones around the house. These were laid nearly twenty years ago. They are reconstituted stone and have weathered really well, but in our changed weather patterns, with more rain this summer, a plethora of plants and seedlings have been sprouting in the cracks. One of the infuriating little plants which needs keeping on top of, is the attractive little purple oxalis with a yellow flower. It has a long tap root which needs a sharp thin tool to get it out; I often use a knife. Evening primroses can take over, but I do like to have one or two growing on the pavement. This year a huge love lies bleeding has appeared from nowhere and I have been reluctant to pull it out!

My most successful plant which seeds itself in paving, is the daisy Erigeron karvinskianus first given me my by a much-loved aunt; such a cheerful plant which flowers all summer. And it’s fairly easy to pull up when you have too much of it (and give it away).

Low growing thymes happily fill cracks. One of my favourites is the woolly thyme Thymus praecox but it isn’t as robust as its cousins and took a little time to get established. Penny royal, a non-edible mint which smells gorgeous when trod on, likewise chamomile, work well too although I have often found that the latter disappears after a year or two. One of my favourites to have between the paving stones is the ivy-leaved toadflax which you often find growing on old walls.

As for plants which seed profusely in our beds, number one is the forget -me-not. But I wouldn’t be without it in spring. Campanula persicifolia, the common but lovely bell flower, usually produces new plants every season here and it’s worth digging up old plants and replacing them with new ones. But why did my aquilegias (the common columbine) suddenly disappear from the garden some years ago? I had so many different colours and forms of this usually incestuous plant, spread throughout the beds and providing such good colour in May. Maybe they were the victim of more energetic weeding!

I’m trying hard to encourage them back now!

30

Christmas will not be far away when you read this, and this year I shall have two good plants of Helleborus niger or the Christmas rose. In contrast to their cousins the Lenten lilies, I find them quite difficult to establish, so I’ve tried them in pots this season and hope they flower in time for the festivities.

Some jobs for the garden in December:  Keep an eye on the weather forecast and check that your plants are safe from frost  Prune apples and pears 

Continue to cut back shrubs which are getting too large



Plant new shrubs, roses or trees - there’s still time!

A very Happy Christmastide and good gardening.

Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

Harvest Time Around about harvest time, some of the flowers in the pots on our terrace are looking a bit shabby. A big deep old copper boiler contained a scruffy apple scented geranium and some Verbena. They needed replacing, and were easily removed. The soil had to go too. A mouse popped out from the dry and dusty soil. It jumped onto the rim of the large boiler, and for a second looked at me. It then jumped down about a metre and disappeared under the yew hedge. I had time to notice that it was a reddish brown, paler towards the neck. Perhaps the Verbena had provided it with both seed and shelter. About a minute later, a rustle from the hedge, and the mouse leapt a prodigious height, about 1.2 metres, to the top of a pot containing huge spiky Agave cactus. It was right beside me. It hid under the Agave, and as I peered at it, the tiny creature climbed onto a leaf. From that platform, it leapt down again, under the hedge, and was gone. From my Field Guide, it seems likely to have been either a Field Mouse or a Yellow Necked Field Mouse. Jumping is their speciality.

Margaret Lynch 31

Meldreth Village Diar Monday Village Advent Trail See page 37 for details 9.30-11.30 Meldreth Local History Group 11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates 2.00-3.00pm Disco Duck

Tuesday

Wednesday

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

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group 1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir 6.30pm Slimming World

Thurs

10.00am Hartb

4.00-5.00pm A 6.00-6.45pm P

7.00-9.00pm T

7.30pm Meldre Council (venue confirmed)

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

10.00am Hartb 6.00-6.45pm P

1.30-2.30pm Aerobics

1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir

7.00-8.00pm Pilates

6.30pm Slimming World

9.00-10.30am Yoga

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

9.00-10.30am Yoga 9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

4.00-5.00pm A

7.00-9.00pm T

4.00-6.30pm Street Dance 8.00-9.00pm Zumba 11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group 1.30-2.30pm Aerobics

1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir

7.00-8.00pm Pilates

6.30pm Slimming World

11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

6.30pm Slimming World

6.30 pm Carol Singing (British Queen) See p. 7

10.40-11.30 Mobile Library

8.00-9.00pm Zumba

7.00-8.00pm Pilates

2.00-3.00pm Disco Duck 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance for Children

10.00am Hartb

4.00-5.00pm A 6.00-6.45pm P

7.00-9.00pm T

8.00-9.00pm Zumba

7.00-9.00pm T

1.30-2.30pm Aerobics

9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

7.00-9.00pm T

Church services are held in Holy Trinity Church. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell C MLHG meet in the Community Room in Elin Way. All other

32

ry - December 2021

day

Friday

beeps

9.30am Slimming World

Acro

7.00pm MADS Cabaret (see page 6)

ilates

Saturday 7.00pm MADS Cabaret (see page 6)

Sunday 9.45am Said Eucharist with organ

Table Tennis

eth Parish to be

beeps

9.30am Slimming World

8.00am Said Eucharist

Acro

ilates

Table Tennis

beeps

6.00pm (approx.) Santa will be travelling through Meldreth on his sleigh(see page 39 for other dates/ times)

MM Copy Deadline

9.30am Slimming World

9.45am Said Eucharist with organ 4.00pm Carol Service

Acro

ilates

Table Tennis Last day of school term

Table Tennis

9.30am Slimming World

10.00am Said Eucharist with organ

able Tennis

Refuse Collections Black bins: 7th, 21st Blue bins: 14th & 30th Green bins: 14th For full details see page 8 lose. Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group meet in the lay-by opposite Holy Trinity Church. events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.

33

Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Thursday 11th November brought us Remembrance Day; a day to remember the service and sacrifice of all those who have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life. At Meldreth Primary School we had an assembly explaining all about the importance of Remembrance Day and what it represents, as well as a minute of silence followed by a few words from some of the Year Sixes. Children across the school have been reflecting on those soldiers and others who have given so much for our country.

Please find some of the thoughts and comments from Year 6 below.

To all the soldiers who have lost and loved.

The worst day of humanity was on the battlefield. I salute you and all you’ve done. You are heroes. We love all who have lost and loved the dearest and greatest. Thank you.

Fred We gather here today to remember all those who died fighting for their country. As we remember, we take a couple of minutes of silence to think about their sacrifice. They never gave up; they showed a sign of resilience. They kept on trying even though there were doubts. They didn’t give up, they kept on going. Thank you.

Imogen Hello, I know you (this one’s for Michael). You died fighting with my grandad. You remember him, Mac, Mac McTaggart. He was the commander back then. Hope you’re doing well resting.

Bailey (Mac’s grandson) On Thursday 11th November, we must remember what these brave souls did for our country, fighting for their lives to save the lives of others.

Joe 34

We are thankful to all those soldiers who fought in the war. We are sad for those who sadly lost their lives doing an amazing job. But it wasn’t just us: animals, people of all colours, they all had a part. We wear our poppies with pride. Thank you!

Isla Thank you for all the things that you have done for us over the years.

You fought for us, you sacrificed yourselves for us and you took care of us so that we could fight for our rights. So that’s why, on 11th November, we celebrate all the people who died to protect us. Thank you.

Ruby Every year, a war memorial service is held outside my house. I hear trumpets early on and then I come outside to hear what everyone has to say, see the poppies being laid down and the silence. I bow down my head, close my eyes and thank all the brave soldiers who fought in the war so that my life could be the way it is. Then, I like to read out the names on the war memorial and every year I see people with the same surnames who must be brothers, and I imagine their mother finding out about this misfortune. I am thankful to all the soldiers who fought in the war, just so we could all live happy lives. Thank you.

Chloe These soldiers fought for us, not just us but the whole country. They were willing to risk their lives, put their lives on the line to save this country and its people. I can’t imagine what it would be like now without them.

But not just them, the animals too. If we didn’t have them, they probably wouldn’t be able to fight their hardest and save our country.

What I have written now has not just come from me, it has come from everyone in England. We bless all those people. Thank you.

Sunny Natasha Hill Meldreth Primary School 35

Meldreth PTA It’s been a busy few months for the PTA, raising funds for school resources.

A massive congratulations to the children who danced their socks off; the Zumbathon in October raised over £4000, with all monies going straight into the ‘Save the School Pool’ fund. Many thanks to Thea of Meldreth Zumba for providing the routines. We are pleased to announce that this takes us to within about £1,000 of our target of £20,000! We are now very optimistic that the children will be swimming again next summer.

The Bag 2 School collection on 8th November raised over £100. Thank you to all those who cleared out old clothes to help us.

The end of November kept us busy with the Christmas Market in the Village Hall, our Christmas hamper raffle and a small celebration to kick off the festive season. We are therefore taking a little break through December to re-energise.

We will, however, be back in full force in the new year to continue raising much needed funds for our school. Keep an eye out for details of our bingo bonanza. Or perhaps the details of one of our spring planters may take your fancy?

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and look forward to updating you on how the school projects progress.

Helen Popwinski Meldreth Primary School PTA meldrethpta@gmail.com

Huw Shortle

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37

Things for Children and Families To Do Wednesday 1st December to end of February, 10.00am to 4.00pm Crazy Cone Caper, Cambridge Botanic Gardens, 1 Brookside CB2 1JE Solve the crime of the nibbled pine cones on this family trail. Facts to find and puzzles to solve. Adult admission £7, children under 16 free.

Wednesdays 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th December, 10.15am to 10.45am, 11.15am to 11.45am Baby Rhyme Time, Royston Library, Market Hill SG8 9JN Songs and rhymes for babies and toddlers. No need to book. Free.

Saturday 4th December, 2.00pm Elf Trail, Thriplow Village Hall, Middle Street SG8 7RD Hunt for elves round the village, following the clues then receive a gift from Father Christmas. Tombola, refreshments, raffle. Tickets £4 from Ladybird Playgroup on the day or www.ladybird-playgroup.co.uk.

Sunday 5th & Saturday 11th December, 10.30am, 12.30 or 2.30pm Winter Wreath Making, Wandlebury Country Park CB22 3AE Create a unique wreath with natural resources - a workshop for the whole family with warming refreshments. £18 per family. Book on www.wildthymeandembers.co.uk.

Saturday 11th December, 2.00pm ReMake, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB With a light and shadow theme, an artist-led practical workshop based on lanterns from the galleries, for ages 11 to 18. Make your own lantern. £5. Book on www.tickets.museums.cam.ac.uk.

Friday 17th, Saturday 18th, Sunday 19th December, various times Beauty and the Beast, Broadway Theatre, Letchworth SG6 3DD A magical pantomime adventure with great music, slapstick, glitter and participation. Book on www.broadway-letchworth.com.

Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th December, 2.00pm & 5.00pm Horrible Christmas, Car Park Panto, IWM Duxford CB22 4QR Drive-in show. A romp through history as everyone tries to save Christmas. £52 per car. Book on www.iwm.org.uk.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

38

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1st Orwell Scouts 1st Orwell Scouts were back with a bang this autumn and wasted no time heading out on their first camping weekend for over eighteen months. Base camp was set up on the outskirts of Thetford Forest and whilst some of the younger scouts were delivered directly to the campsite, a group of five of the older, more experienced scouts undertook an expedition, making their own way to camp using a train and then hiking cross country on foot. Whilst at camp, the scouts constructed their own assault course and, of course, cooked some great food. A great time was had by all, and it was fabulous to be back in the outdoors, working together and enjoying the natural environment.

To be back doing these kinds of group outdoor activities again has put a real spring in the section leaders’ steps.

October saw the scouts take part in the world’s biggest online scout event, the JOTI - a jamboree on the internet. This annual event allows the scouts to learn about others from around the world and gives them the opportunity to take part in online activities that promote friendship and global citizenship. Activities included webinars, global campfires, talent shows, fun challenges and more.

The cubs, meanwhile, were out on the Moor in Melbourn, developing their pioneering skills which included making their own rope and practicing their knots. As the nights drew in, the cubs moved back to their usual meeting place at the Primary School. This hasn’t meant they’ve been confined to the indoors though, and following a session where they carefully planned a two-course meal, they took to the outdoors in the dark to prepare (and eat!) it. They have also practiced their firelighting skills, all in preparation for an upcoming camp which we will be able to say more about in the next edition!

For those sessions that have been indoors, the cubs have been embracing a newly introduced badge on money skills. To learn more about saving, the cubs had to make the hard decision of accepting one chocolate at the beginning of the session, waiting to the end for two or waiting until the following week’s session for three. Needless to say, there were very few takers for the three chocolate option!

A sunny Sunday in early October saw a team of four cubs head down to Borehamwood for the Hertfordshire County cub cyclo-cross event.

The day was made up of three main events, an off-road relay team 41

event (made up of four rounds), an individual time trial event and an individual agility competition. There were eighteen teams there on the day and competition was tough, but fun. Teamwork was definitely the agenda of the day. In the team event, 1st Orwell did really well to secure fourth place, with individual performances improving significantly over each round. We were also very pleased that one of our team, Jacob Murphy, took home the trophies for both the time trial and agility events.

All of those involved with 1st Orwell Scout Group are fiercely proud of the efforts and commitment of both the children and the leaders.

For cubs, the highest level of achievement is to gain the Chief Scout Silver Award and in October we were pleased to welcome the District Commissioner, Carole Rhind, to present Silver Award badges and certificates to three of our cubs (now scouts).

On the same evening we were also proud to see the efforts and dedication of cub leader Andrew Dominey and our assistant leader Hughlene Conradie recognised, as they were presented with their wood badges, signifying the completion of their leader training.

Our heartfelt congratulations to all.

1st Orwell Beavers, Cubs and Scouts meet on Friday evenings in Melbourn.

The Group is currently full, but please contact admissions@1storwellscouts.org.uk to add your child to our waiting list.

42

We are very keen to hear from any adults interested in becoming leaders as this will allow us to accept more children and reduce our waiting list. As a Beaver/Cub/Scout assistant leader you could inspire our young people to grow in ability and confidence through a huge variety of activities and challenges, which is incredibly enjoyable and rewarding; why not give something new a go!

Please contact GSL@1storwellscouts.org.uk if you are interested in finding out more.

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Shepreth Spitfires Football Club www.sheprethspitfires.co.uk This month the Shepreth Spitfires Football teams have had lots of matches and the volunteer coaches at the club have worked really hard.

Not only have coaches planned their sessions, done all of the logistics and encouraged and helped the children during their games, as they do week in week out, but additionally, this month, they have organised the Remembrance Sunday respects and also organised a fun inter-club mixed sports tournament. This is all done in their own time and we would like to say a huge thank you to all of the coaches in the village.

During a week long mini tournament of games, the younger boys and girls played basketball, mini football, 5-a-side football and Giant Jenga. The children had an amazing time and got to know children from other teams and different age groups which is so amazing for them socially and it keeps that real community feel to the club. At the end of the night, eight little groups came up to receive their sweets, medals and trophies.

There were lots of big smiles and exhausted faces and a lot of anticipation and finally big cheers for The Reds who lifted the winners’ cup.

Additionally, behind the scenes this month it was great to get to meet up, in person, with the members of Meldreth Parish Council to share how the children from the village and surrounding villages are enjoying being at the fantastic Eternit Sports and Social Club, Meldreth. It was decided that it would be great to share any events that are going on in 44

the village for children and families which will be wonderful.

Thanks for having us at the meeting.

If anyone would like to join Shepreth Spitfires Football Club please contact Lucy or Sean on 07510 175370 or go to www.sheprethspitfires.co.uk.

Lucy Smith

Baby & Toddler Group On Wednesday 15th December, the last Baby and Toddler group before Christmas, we will be holding a special Christmas party for the children. Christmas fun, craft and food will all be on the menu.

If you haven't yet discovered our friendly group then this is the perfect time to come along to meet new friends. We meet every Wednesday 9.30am - 11.30am (during term time only) at the Village Hall. The cost is £2 per family.

The date for our January reopening is to be confirmed. Please join our Facebook group for regular updates and news.

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46

1st Melbourn Guides Our autumn term started with games and activities to integrate our seven new girls and we are now working on a life skills badge. Each patrol has cooked a vegetable soup and bread rolls, learnt to sew a felt pencil case and played a game to explore career options. They have also tried to taste the difference between branded and cheaper supermarket foods to learn how to save money.

It’s important for Guides to discover how to help other people. For the Home-Start Marathon challenge, our 26 girls each ran one mile around the village and collected an amazing total of £620 for this local organisation. Charity representative Tracy Aggett explained to the girls how Home-Start helps local families and she thanked the girls before presenting them with medals and a certificate.

We have also helped at the All Saints’ Church morning market by running a children’s tombola, raising £50 for their maintenance fund.

We finished the first half term with a Guide Law game and drama challenge and learnt to make a macrame lantern holder for our Promise ceremony, which we held round a pumpkin ‘campfire’.

If you would like to know more about our Guide unit, please contact me on (01763) 261443 or email melbournguides@gmail.com You can also look on the girlguiding.org.uk website to find out more.

Hilary Marsh 47

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Meeting held on Thursday 4th November 2021 This meeting was held in the Green Room of the Village Hall. The main points are set out below in the usual summary format. The full formal minutes can be viewed in due course on the website noted above and on the Parish Council notice board; these will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

Discussions and Decisions Shepreth Spitfires Football Lucy Smith from Shepreth Spitfires gave an account of their activities, which are primarily based at the Eternit Sports Club. There has been major growth in the Spitfires with membership now in the order of 150, catering primarily for those in the six to thirteen years age bracket; a fair number of whom come from Meldreth. The Council thanked Ms Smith for her work and achievements on this project, which delivers significant benefit to our local community of young people.

Council Meetings For the time being Council meetings will not be held in the Green Room of the Village Hall as in the current Covid-19 circumstances, this is too small to safely accommodate Councillors and members of the public wishing to be present. The venues of future meetings will continue to be published at the due time with the agenda and can be viewed on the Council’s notice board opposite the One Stop shop.

County Council Issues It has been reported that the government has agreed for Cambridge and Peterborough Councils to become Enhanced Response Areas (ERA) from Monday 1st November. This targeted support recognises the higher levels of infection in our region and is expected to run for five weeks. Support will focus on the vaccine roll out programme for the younger age groups and other measures that it is hoped will reduce the spread of infections in our area.

Greater Cambridge Local Plan: The opportunity is taken to remind the community that First Proposals (committee stage version) have been published online and are now due to be the subject of public consultation, running from 48

1st November to 13th December. The Plan does not contain any proposals for developments within the village of Meldreth.

Developments in other local areas will however impact indirectly on our village in terms of traffic and facilities.

“Oxford Cambridge Arc” Consultation The Council has expressed its very significant concerns about the way in which this consultation has been organised and the lack of clarity regarding how the proposal rests alongside other major planning initiatives such as the Local Plan. The Council has already published a summary of its position in Meldreth Matters and elsewhere.

Proposal for Major Town Development in South Cambridgeshire No further direct actions appear to have taken place recently and the situation continues to be kept under close review.

Covid-19 Update Our local MCCS arrangements remain in place for those in need of assistance. With a significant increase in Covid cases in our area, all residents are recommended to exercise caution.

District and County Councillors’ Report The Council acknowledges the importance of our being kept up to date with matters taking place at those council levels and we thank our District and County colleagues for keeping us informed. It should be noted that the report provided by them for Meldreth Matters is prepared separately from the report they provide to the Council and differs in timing and content from it.

Community Projects Working Group The Council approved a request for a donation of £150 to the Mobile Library to help with the purchase of books.

Remembrance Day This year the service will be held on Sunday 14th November. The event last fully took place in 2019 when residents kindly laid on coffee and cakes afterwards in the Village Hall for those attending; the Council covered the costs of hiring the Village Hall. This year the Council agreed in principle to do the same and also to provide a donation towards the costs of refreshments for which no charge is made for those attending. The Council is very grateful for the public spirit that clearly lies behind this important community initiative and warmly thanks those who organise and help with it.

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Recreation Ground Our equipment continues to be in good order and the few outstanding issues are being attended to. The Council is investigating other recreational facilities at the recreation ground including table tennis and skateboarding.

Public comments have been made to the Council about the directness of notices about dog fouling that have recently been erected at the Recreation Ground. The Council would prefer not to have to put up any further notices at all but there has been a marked increase in the number of instances where dog mess has not been collected by owners and in the Covid-19 crisis there has also been a marked increase in the number of dog ownerships. With previous notices often ignored it is hoped that the latest notices will more clearly express what needs to be done by owners and the Council does hope to see greater compliance in the future. Some other Councils exclude dogs from public recreation areas altogether but your Council hopes that we will not need to do this in Meldreth. All owners are therefore asked kindly to comply without further reminders being required.

Village Infrastructure The dislocated signs at the Whitecroft Road/Fenny Lane crossroads have been reported to the District Council and we are waiting for these to be reinstalled. The Council has agreed in principle to install a seat at or near the crossroads and the location of this will be investigated; it being important to ensure that road safety issues are taken into account.

Flambards Estate The Council has opened renewed discussions with the Residents Association about the need to repair a broken concrete surface. A meeting will shortly be arranged to take this subject forward.

Churchyard The Council will need to conduct discussions with risk assessment specialists with regard to those issues where it is thought that there is some risk to the public. The chairman of the Council has contacted the churchwardens to discuss the position of a bench in the churchyard, to be provided by the church but installed by the Council for public use.

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Council Finance We are approaching the time of year when the Council reviews its financial position in detail and takes decisions about the level of Council tax (precept) that should prudently be raised to meet our obligations. The Council faces a considerable cost for meeting its legal obligations to maintain the churchyard and it may be necessary to increase the precept this year by £10,000 or possibly more to meet these obligations in a planned way. This is to be reviewed in more detail.

Next Meeting: Thursday 2nd December 2021 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 parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061

goddin@btinternet.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

Dr R James

(01763) 261085

roger+pc@rogerjames.net

Mr C A Land

(01763) 261004

conradland@btinternet.com

Mr Nigel Pellatt

(01763) 260909

nppellatt@btconnect.com

Mr A Young

(01763) 263484

andrewmpc@gmail.com

Vacancy

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District and County Councillors’ Report This report is a recap of some of the key items brought to the Parish Council, but not a replica - there are always new things cropping up and so we’re not always in sync! If you’re looking for a record of our Parish Council reports, these are kindly posted on the Parish Council website.

Anglian Water Meeting We had a very productive meeting with Anglian Water to discuss system capacity in our area and to understand key problem areas and what can be done. The key outcome is that Meldreth is on a high priority list for the ‘Infiltration Reduction Programme,’ though just missed being included this financial year – so we are hoping for soon after April 2022. This follows the problems experienced in the Whitecroft Road area last winter. The works should have a positive bearing on the wider area.

We have requested Anglian Water asset maps for Meldreth and will share when we receive them. Anglian Water welcomes supporting Parish Councils with regard to planning applications with significant implications on drainage.

We also learned that, unsurprisingly, Anglian Water is working hard to anticipate the effects of climate change and the projection of high frequency severe rainfall events. Anglian Water’s Priority Service Register is a free service that anyone can sign up to, should they need a little extra support. Customers can sign up on the Anglian Water website or through Anglian Water contact centres. See https:// www.anglianwater.co.uk/help-and-advice/water-care/priority-services.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions on the above.

The Unflushables Every year, Anglian Water clears around 40,000 blockages from our sewers alone. Eighty per cent of these blockages are completely avoidable but cause more pollutions in the environment than anything else.

We trust that the following practical tips, provided by Anglian Water, are helpful! There’s nothing like saying it like it is…

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In the kitchen:  Used water is the only thing you should put down your sink.  Used cooking oil should never be poured down the sink. Instead recycle it, compost at home or wait until it is cool, pour into a plastic bottle with a lid, and take to a Household Waste Recycling Centre for recycling.  Use kitchen towel to absorb cooled liquid fat from cooking pans and trays.  Leftovers, peelings and food scraps should never go down the sink.

Use a sink strainer to stop them going down the plughole and empty into the bin or food waste bin. Peelings can be composted at home.

In the bathroom:  The three ‘Ps’ (pee, poo and toilet paper) are the only things that should go down the loo.  A bin is the best place for all your unflushable waste. Put one by the toilet, so nobody’s tempted to flush rubbish.  Put wipes, cotton wool, floss and cotton buds in the bin.  Use bags or toilet paper to discreetly dispose of sanitary products waste – again, in the bin.  Sink strainers are good at catching hair that could otherwise block the plughole in your shower or bath.

Worth paying attention, worth sending in your two penneth!

We’ve had lots of consultations – endless it seems – and the layers upon layers can be bewildering and disheartening.

But please, if you are concerned about Thakeham’s unconventional methods of lobbying government for a new South West Cambridge new town, do consider responding to the Greater Cambridge Local Plan First Proposals consultation, because the Local Plan follows accountable democratic processes and is built on principles of strategic infrastructure, including water and runs to 13th December. The Local Plan First Proposals do not include the land required for Thakeham’s new town – however the consultation period is a window during which new proposals can be brought forward. This is a legal requirement.

So, if you support the proposals as they stand, please respond to say so!

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https://greatercambridgeplanning.org/emerging-plans-and-guidance/ greater-cambridge-local-plan. [See also page 14.]

Covid: Cambridgeshire ‘Enhanced Response Area’ Status Unfortunately, Covid rates in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough were so high in October that we are now an ‘Enhanced Response Area’ for tackling the Covid pandemic. Our National Health Service and GP services are severely stretched, as many people will have experienced personally – both as patients and as employees (and a huge thank you to all who are working in health and care professions). We are now in a very serious situation, and this move by the Council and the Director of Public Health is both necessary and welcome.

One of Susan’s roles is chairing the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Covid Outbreak Engagement Board, so please feel free to contact her directly if you have any queries.

The new status runs at least through the first week in December. It allows the Council to push for additional support to:  Accelerate and target 12-15 vaccination roll out to key areas and schools where infections are highest.  Accelerate booster vaccinations for eligible groups who have had their second vaccination more than six months ago.  Increase vaccination rates in areas with the lowest uptake.  The Councils will also enter into further discussions with the Department for Education about additional measures it can use in schools.

In the meantime they will continue to:  Encourage secondary school teachers or pupils who are household contacts of positive cases to take daily lateral flow tests.  Advise schools that face coverings should be worn in secondary school communal areas and that meetings should happen virtually where possible.  Encourage anyone who is a household contact of a positive case to take daily rapid tests, until a negative PCR test is received.

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For the general public, government funded additional communications are also beginning. These will:  Recommend wear face coverings in crowded and enclosed areas where you come into contact with people you do not usually meet.  Remind people to get their vaccinations, test regularly and particularly before attending events, meet with others outside their households in well ventilated spaces and wash hands regularly and well.

More information is available here: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/news/enhanced-response-areastatus-vital-to-protect-nhs-and-vital-services Reminder: Covid Support Available The Government has extended the financial payments available to help people self-isolate, until the end of next March. These payments support people who will lose income as a result of having to self-isolate and will struggle to pay their bills or buy food and essentials. https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/coronavirus/ coronaviruscovid-19-support-to-self-isolate A Household Support Fund (originally the Winter Support Grant) is now up and running - more information here: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/children-and-families/ schools-learning/help-with-school-learning-costs/free-school-meals Any Questions or Concerns?

As always, please feel free to get in touch any time with questions or concerns – and if you’d like to meet us virtually, we hold a Wednesday afternoon Zoom Cuppa Councillors’ Surgery. Drop us a line and we’ll send you the link.

District Councillor Sally Ann Hart, sallyannhart@riskingonpurpose.com, 07791 233303 District Councillor Jose Hales, Josehales@gmail.com, 07703 262649 County Councillor Susan van de Ven, susanvandeven5@gmail.com, 07905 325574

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Planning Matters Parish Council The information below has been taken from the minutes of the PC Planning meeting on 7th October (draft minutes) and 21st October. The minutes of the planning meeting on 5th August and 4th November were not available at the time of going to press. Meeting minutes (when available) may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

Ref. and Address

Details

PC Decision

12 Flambards Close 21/04064/HFUL 112 High Street 21/04035/HFUL

Part single storey, part two storey rear extension (Resubmission of 12/01626/HFUL) Alterations with side and rear extensions

No Recommendation with no comments

Scrapyard, Chiswick End S/3529/16/ CONDB 126 High Street 21/1181/TTCA

No Recommendation with comments: ‘The PC recommend that a traffic management plan be carried out and that contractors are not parked on the High Street which is already a congested area’ Submission of details required by The Parish Council made no comment condition 18 (part C & D) (Remediation Method Statement) of planning permission S/3529/16/OL INFO. ONLY The Parish Council T1 Elm has started to succumb to Dutch Elm disease. It is close made no comment to the road, path and telephone lines. It has poor form where it has grown amongst the London Planes. Recommend removal to ground level. To be replaced with a native broad leaf species

Single storey rear infill extension No recommendation 113 North End 21/04395/PRIOR with no comments Stocks and Whipping Post 21/1287/TTCA

Due to Dutch Elm Disease: T2 – Fell to ground level T3 – Fell twin stem tree to ground level 56

Councillor Goddin suggested that the Tree Warden’s report to SCDC Tree Officer.

Other Items

Appeal Decision of 67 Whitecroft Road APP/W0530/D/21/3276209 The appeal is dismissed.

SCDC Decisions Recent decisions are listed below.

Ref. and Address 59 North End 21/03235/HFUL

Decision Permission granted for a two storey rear extension with Juliet balcony

The Old Congregational Chapel, High Street, 21/03094/HFUL

Permission granted for a single storey front extension – resubmission of 21/01783/HFUL

21/03347/S73 Land to rear of 1921 Whitecroft Road

Permission granted for Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) of planning permission 20/01044/S73 Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) pursuant to reserved matters approval S/0914/18/RM

12 Flambards Close 21/04064/HFUL

Permission granted for part single storey, part two storey rear extension

116 High Street 21/03830/CL2PD

Granted Certificate of Lawfulness under Section 192 for a garage conversion.

67 Whitecroft Road 21/02185/HFUL

Application withdrawn for a single storey rear extension, roof ridge height raised with dormers for bedrooms within roof shape.

20/03484/CONDC Fenny Lane Farm Fenny Lane

Submission of details required by condition 2 (Verification Report) of permission 20/03484/FUL .

Discharge condition in full.

Full details may be viewed on the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning website: https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.

The Meldreth Matters Team

MM is Available in Colour Online To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters 57

Payment Diversion Fraud Payment Diversion Fraud, also known as Business Email Compromise or Mandate Fraud, involves criminals impersonating a business and creating or amending invoices and diverting payments to bank accounts under their own control. This can target both businesses and individuals.

Unlike some indiscriminate scams, Payment Diversion Fraud involves criminals deliberately targeting a specific individual, and particularly home-buyers due to the scale of the transactions. As a result, individual losses can be significantly higher than for many other types of fraud. In the year to September 2021 there have been 4,600 cases reported to Action Fraud, with individual losses averaging around £30,000. Criminals will often create fake email addresses which are very similar to genuine addresses and send over fake invoices to make it more believable.

The following red flags of Payment Diversion Fraud have been identified:  Have you been asked to urgently process a payment that is large or unusual?  Have you been asked to change the bank details of an existing business or to set up for a new business?  Is the language used in the email inconsistent with that of the genuine sender?  Does the body of the email or email address contain spelling mistakes?

Whenever you are making a payment to a business, or to your solicitor in the case of a house purchase, you should be highly suspicious of any change in account details or new instructions. Always double-check the payment request via an additional method, for example telephoning a trusted contact using a known number. If you are in any doubt do not transfer the money.

Always report scams to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk. If you're not sure whether something is a scam, you can talk to one of the trusted contacts in Meldreth: 58

Graham (01763) 260358 Peter (01763) 260323

Linda Tim

(01763) 261405 (01763) 262801

You can contact Neighbourhood Watch by phoning Graham on the above number, or by emailing nhw.meldreth@btinternet.com.

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire: Care Homes We would like local families to share their experiences of care homes over the last 12-18 months.

Do you, a loved one, family member or friend live in a Cambridgeshire care home?

From communications and visiting restrictions to Covid testing and end of life care – we want to hear what it’s been like for you.

What you tell Healthwatch will help local health and care services prepare better for the future.

Share your views at https://www.healthwatchcambridgeshire.co.uk/care -home-survey.

If you’re not online, please telephone us on 0330 355 1285 and we can send you a paper questionnaire and a pre-paid envelope.

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire

Home Tutor

Village Garden Services

Does your child need a bit of help catching up?

Keeping up?

Developing enjoyment of a subject?

I am an experienced Primary School teacher providing 1:1 tuition for primary school children (KS2) in a calm, caring environment, based in Shepreth.

Focussing on Literacy and Numeracy.

Please contact me for more information: Carol Dutton BSc (Hons) PGCE cassakd@icloud.com / 07986 978 358

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 ...… !

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Meldreth Coronavirus Community Support Once again we’d like thank Meldreth residents for contributing to the community effort to help curtail the spread of Covid-19. We continue to try and support those adversely affected by the pandemic where possible, provide basic information, and bring friendship and social contact too, knowing that many people have experienced minimal contact for a long time.

Assistance from MCCS If you are clinically extremely vulnerable, shielding or have been instructed to self-isolate and your usual support is unavailable, please contact Meldreth Coronavirus Community Support using the contact details below and we will do our best to assist.

Vaccinations Thank you to people who’ve contacted us with questions about vaccinations; we can help point you in the right direction.

Where to Get Your Covid Jabs The Vaccinators website gives www.thevaccinators.co.uk.

lots

of

information:

https://

Transport to Vaccination Appointments Help is available via the County Council for anyone who is stuck without transport to their vaccination appointment – please ring the Countywide Hub on 0345 045 5219.

Royston and District Community Transport can also give lifts to vaccination appointments; telephone (01763) 245228.

Pharmacy Deliveries If you are unable to travel to a pharmacy, medication can be delivered directly to you by a number of methods. Please ask your local pharmacist about the services they offer. Contact WELL Melbourn on (01763) 260221 or Bassingbourn Pharmacy on (01763) 250660 about the services offered. Our coordinator for pharmacy assistance is Nick Garner on 07968 568599.

Local Shops Taking Telephone Orders and Making Deliveries Home deliveries are available from Fieldgate (01763) 260737 and Bury Lane (01763) 260418. For Leech & Sons butchers ring (01763) 260255 to collect outside in the car park at the rear of the shop.

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Mental Health and Wellbeing Support We are supported by the very useful resources available to all at CPSL Mind – that’s Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Suffolk and Lincolnshire Mind - including common-sense helpful reminders and also telephone numbers and links if you’re worried or anxious and need to talk to someone who can help: https://www.cpslmind.org.uk/top-tips-self-helpresources. Or, for general queries please call 0300 303 4363 between 9.30am and 5.30pm.

Our Neighbourhood Zone Leaders Please remember that our team is always on hand for a friendly chat by phone – our zone leaders’ telephone numbers are below.

Kneesworth Road, West Way, Burtons & Fenny Lane: Bev Cottrell, 07773 592838 Elin Way and Howard Road: David Hollamby, 07732 106828 Whitecroft Road, Chiswick End, Oakrits, Melrose: John Crawforth, 07595 627684 High Street, Flambards, The Grange, Woolpack Way, Station Yard & Road: Helen Munday, 07712 555598 Bell Close and Gables Close: Cathy Walston, 07757 086380 North End, Brewery Lane, Malton Lane, Cam Farm: Bev Cottrell, 07773 592838 & Ian Mitchell, 07726 936635 Any other questions, please let us know.

County and District Councillors Susan van de Ven, Jose Hales, Sally Ann Hart and all at the MCCS team

Christmas Cheer Boxes MCCS is once again organising some Christmas Cheer Boxes.

Contributions can be left at 69 High Street on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 15th December.

See page 4 for further information.

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One Stop Village Hall Bookings Village Hall Chairman

(01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Julia Moore—07403 462198 Paul Ray—(01763) 260304

Cycling Group 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.org.uk

Photographic Group

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440 Chris Davison—(01763) 264189

Sport

Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club

Christine Piper Hatch—(01223) 263266 Janet Pope—(01763) 248239 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

Church

Litter Picker

Rev. Lizzie Shipp Rev. Mary Price Bells John Price (Friends)

(01763) 220626; https://allsaintsmelbournholytrinitymeldreth.co.uk (01763) 261569 Sandra Webb—(01763) 261451 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk

Baby & Toddler Group Brownies (1st Meldreth) Hartbeeps Melbourn Rainbows Pre– and Primary School

Julia Moore—07403 462198 Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com Kelly@hartbeeps.com Stef Cooper—07922 053801 (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Parish Council

Please see details at end of Parish Council report

District Councillor

Jose Hales—07703 262649 Sally Ann Hart—07791 233303

District Council Offices

03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/

County Councillor

Susan van de Ven—07905 325574 www.susanvandeven.com/

County Council Offices MP

0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Anthony Browne; www.anthonybrowne.org/

Councils & Govt.

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Neighbourhood Watch

Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358

Children

Village Directory

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

Rail User Group

07905 325574; www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk

Transport

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.

Health

Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS

(01763) 260220; Dispensary—(01763) 261246 (01223) 245151 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)

Childline

Community Transport Home-Start Melbourn Time Bank 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 (01763) 263303; https://tol2.timebanking.org/melbourn 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

Misc.

Non-

Emergencies

Support Services

Station Ticket Office

Citizens Advice Bureau

Police

Taxi (Butler Meltax) (01763) 244444; 212223 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; Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Editorial Assistant: Robin Farbridge; Distribution: Lesley Pemberton 07798 586875 and Maggie Smith 07929 969613; Founder: 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.

Meldreth Landscapes ......................25 Meldreth Motor Company .........Cover Meldreth Plant Hire .........................40 Meldreth Rocks Jewellery ...............25 Moncraft Computers ........................16 N J Chapman, gardening ..................46 Nancy Foster Footcare .....................46 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service15 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......26 P D Property Services .......................46 Penn Farm Physiotherapy .................26 Pet Sitter .........................................45 Richard Burns Electrician ....................2 Rod’s PC Support ............................43 Sage Blinds and Interiors ....................2 Slimming World .................................2 Sparky’s ..........................................15 Specialist Dental Partners ..................5 Trademark Kitchens ..........................40 Village Garden Services ....................59

AngliEAR Hearing ...........................15 Art of Clean .....................................46 Art of Clean Wood ...........................43 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) ..........39 Cam Valley Orchards ......................26 Cambourne Self Storage ...................45 CHS Day Centre .............................26 CHS Group ...............................Cover The Country Store ..............................2 Ely Design Group..............................21 Eternit Sports and Social Club .........22 Eve Construction ........................Cover Home Tutor .....................................59 Huw Shortle Window Cleaning .......36 Jackson Cox Opticians .....................46 JN Garden Services ..........................21 Lawn Partners ..................................43 The Letting Centre .............................7 Little Hands Nursery School ...........36 Melbourn Flooring ...........................22 Melbourn Village College............Cover 64

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

EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY

The Moor Melbourn SG8 6EF 07163 223400 office@melbournvc.org www.melbournvc.org

A highly-rated community secondary school committed to ensuring every student achieves his or her very best through a rich and varied curriculum.

OFSTED (Sept 2017) confirmed: ‘An innovative curriculum that truly meets the needs of pupils’ ‘The first school in Cambridgeshire to introduce Mandarin at Key Stage 3’ ‘The school’s vision of Everybody is Somebody is evident in the support you provide for all pupils’ ‘Parents are overwhelmingly supportive of the school’ Senior Leaders will be delighted to show around prospective students and their parents. For more information or to book your tour, please contact Karin Doyle – office@melbournvc.org

December in Meldreth Advent Trail 2021 A shiny star will appear in a window each day of December un l 24th. Each star will have a le er on it. Put all the le ers together and work out what they say.

1-6 December: Elin Way 7-12 December: Whitecro Road 13-18 December: Chiswick End 19-24 December: High Street When you have found the message, come to the church porch on Christmas Eve between 4.00 and 5.00pm to collect a reward!

Carols at the British Queen Monday 20th December, 6.30pm The main event will be in the marquee, which will have two open sides.

Please wear masks.

The music will also be relayed to those who prefer to remain outside the marquee.

There will be a collec on for this year’s chosen charity: Home-Start Royston, Bun ngford & South Cambridgeshire

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