February 2016
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Meldreth Matters, February 2016 Contents include … Joan Gipson February Events in Meldreth Drainage Information Evening Pre-School Melbourn Village College Primary School 1st Melbourn Guides What’s On for Children Letters to the Editor Melwood Management Plan Royal British Legion Gardening Good Companions Church Services Friends of Holy Trinity Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch Volunteering Opportunities Parish Council Local History Clearing out the Clutter Pet Health County Councillor’s Report District Councillor’s Report Melbourn Sports Centre News from Heidi Allen Local Events Love Your Home-Start Information and Advice Planning Matters Village Directory Index to Advertisers
Page 3-5 6-7 9 10-11 11 12-13 14 15 17 18-19 20 22-23 25 25 26 28-29 31 34-39 39-41 43 44-45 47-49 50-51 51 52 54-55 57 58-59 61 62-63 64
Welcome to the February issue of Meldreth Matters. Last year, we printed some of the Primary School pupils’ thoughts on what they liked about living in Meldreth and what they would do to improve the village. One of the suggestions for improvement was a zip wire on the recreation ground - now a reality. On pages 12-13 of this issue you can read the children’s responses to a different question: what would they change in the world if they had the power to do anything they chose? Sadly, I think there is less chance of any of these becoming a reality! There are opportunities to have your say about some issues affecting the village this month. There is a Bus Users’ Meeting on 25th, a Public Exhibition on the Marley-Eternit proposals to build 170 houses in the village on 27th and a Drainage Information Evening on 29th. Full details of all these are included in the magazine. Kathryn
Cover: Holy Trinity Church in Snow, February 2012. Photograph by Kathryn Betts. The opinions expressed in the letters and articles in this magazine are those of the writers, who are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within them.
The last date for copy is the 12th of each month. Copy should be submitted by email where possible, to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT Tel. (01763) 268428 The Editor reserves the right to withhold from publication or to shorten if necessary, any article or letter sent to her.
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Joan Gipson 22/1/1929 - 8/12/2015 Joan was born in 1929 in Longstanton the only daughter of Charles and Ida Cook. The family moved to Newton where Joan’s brother Albert was born in 1930. Joan's father, Charles, worked as a signalman at both Harston and Foxton stations. Joan attended Newton village school and then in 1939 went to the Cambridge and County High School for girls. She was one of the first girls to go to the new school in Long Road now Long Road Sixth Form College. Only last summer Joan and her lifelong friend Joyce Carter spent time with Hilary Roadley from Harston Local History Group reminiscing about their youth. Joan delivered the post in the school holidays, picking up the mail from Harston Post Office where Joyce worked and then cycling back to Newton to deliver it. Joan recalled that she always had to deliver to Lord Walston at Newton Hall first. After the war Joan trained as a teacher at Stockwell College in Kent and then went on to teach at the Brunswick school in Cambridge. During the war years she had also taught at Hinxton School. Joan's father Charles was a well-known bell ringer and friend of a young man called John Gipson. John called frequently to take Charles to ringing practice. Joan and John were married in St Margaret’s Church, Newton on Boxing Day 1953 by Rev Sibson – Derek Sibson’s father. The bell ringing connection goes on and on!!! Joan and John made their home in Meldreth. They moved into grandfather’s dilapidated cottages on the High Street next to Miss 3
Hunter. Their cottage had been modernised: well, it had an inside tap and an Elsan loo! Their neighbours were Ann and Len Saunders. In July 1954 Joan's brother Albert was killed in an air accident. He worked for Handley Page the aircraft manufacturers and was an observer in a V bomber which crashed near Cranfield in Bedfordshire killing all the crew. Joan was given much love and support from the village community and John's sisters Muriel and Sylvia. Later, Joan cared for her parents who subsequently moved to a new bungalow in Elin way in the 1960's. If I said Joan became an active member of the community that might be an understatement! She was a member of the WI for over 50 years and served as its president during the 1980s. Joan was an accomplished needle woman and knitter and enjoyed drawn thread work and embroidery. Her hooded cardigans for babies were legendary in our family. She won many prizes at WI competitions for dressed dolls, embroidered dolly bags and drawn thread work tablecloths. She attended Mrs Jude's famous embroidery classes for many years which she loved. Joan was also a loyal and dedicated member of the Mother's Union from 1956. She was a Branch Leader and Deanery Leader. Her volunteering roles locally included Meals on Wheels Mobile Warden Scheme Community car service Good Companions Club for over 60s Committees for village fetes Luncheon Club in Melbourn Village Hall committee Volunteering at Jimmy’s Night Shelter in Cambridge Holy Trinity Church was the centre of Joan’s life. She ran the Sunday School for many years and organised trips and outings. She also started a Sunday school at the Manor School. She organised the church cleaning and flower rotas, often filling in when people had forgotten. She made coffee, she made cakes, she made jam. She was on the organising committee for the Church Fete and the Christmas Tree Festival. Joan loved decorating the church at Easter and Christmas and for Harvest festival and also took great pride in arranging wedding flowers. 4
The list of Joan’s roles within the Church is endless and included the following: Membership of the PCC for many years Hospitality for visiting clergy during interregnums Children’s Society secretary Embroidered vestments and kneelers Ran a stall at the All Saints bazaar Collected for the Mission for Seamen and the Children’s Society Organising and making Christingles and posies for Mothering Sunday services Distributing the Parish magazine Taking bookings for the meeting room Taking bookings for the bells and collecting the rope money. And in her spare time, Joan bought up three very different and at times very challenging daughters. Joan and John were married for almost 62 years. They lived many of these years at 63 High Street which was always a hive of activity with something in or on the AGA, the telephone ringing and callers at the door. Joan supported John not only with his garage business but also his many roles in the village and of course his bell ringing, organising ringers’ teas and supper on New Year's Eve. Joan also cared for John’s sisters and brother in their later years. Her eight grandchildren gave her endless happiness and her five great grandchildren brought a new meaning to her last few years. It was lovely that only five days before she died the youngest, Albert, named in memory of her brother, was born and we were able to share photographs of Albie with her. Since Joan died, we have had wonderful messages from so many people both locally, nationally and as far away as Canada and the Far East. Joan was a constant in an ever changing world and she has touched so many people's lives. All of our family would like to thank everyone from the church, local community and friends far and near who have supported Joan in her last years of incapacity. I'd like to end with this thought: just being born is a miracle, to grow and make a difference in this wonderful world is grace indeed, but to live a life that touches others is amazing beyond compare. Chris Duguid 5
February Events in Meldreth To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com Saturday 6th February, 10.30am - 12 noon Elin Way ‘Community Coffee Break’ We look forward to seeing you when you can enjoy a chat and a cup of coffee or tea with a selection of biscuits. There will also be a raffle in aid of the Kambiti Hospital project in Kenya. Please join us if you can. Marion Long (01763) 261365. Wednesday 10th February, 7.45pm Melwood Conservation Group’s AGM and Guest Presentation Green Room, Meldreth Village Hall Following a short meeting, there will be a presentation by our guest speaker, Dr Andy Clements. Andy is the Chief Executive Officer of the British Trust for Ornithology, President of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists’ Society and a board Member of Natural England. He has previously held senior posts in other government conservation agencies and helped set up Natural England, which is the agency responsible for conservation policy and National Nature reserves for the whole of England. Andy’s talk is entitled “Birds Interactions with the Landscape: BTO Research at Global and Local Levels”. Drinks and nibbles will be available. Friday 12th February 2016, 7.30pm Holy Trinity Church Talk: HM Diplomatic Service A talk by Sir David Wright GCMG LVO former ambassador to Korea 1990-1994 and Japan 1996-1999 Tickets cost £7.50 (Friends £7.00). For details of how to purchase tickets please see page 26 6
Thursday 25th February, 10.30am 128 Bus Users’ Transport Coffee Morning Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way As reported last month, it is only a matter of time before the County Council will be forced to withdraw its bus subsidies – the scale of central government cuts being so overwhelming. In order to figure out what next and how to ensure that people who depend on this bus service retain their independence, we’ll be getting together on Thursday 25th February, at 10.30am, at the Sheltered Housing Community Room, in Elin Way. Please come along if you are concerned about your own independence or someone else’s, or if you would simply like to listen and learn. Royston and District Community Transport have confirmed they will be joining us for brainstorming. If you need a lift to the meeting, please don’t hesitate to let me know and this will be easily arranged. Susan van de Ven 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com
Saturday 27th February, 2.00 to 8.00pm Public Exhibition on the Marley-Eternit Planning Proposals Meldreth Village Hall Meldreth Parish Council has arranged an exhibition on MarleyEternit’s proposals to build approximately 170 houses in Meldreth. Find out more and have your say. See back page for details
Monday 29th February, 7.30pm Drainage Information Evening Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way See page 9 for further information 7
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Drainage Information Evening: 29th February, 7.30pm, Elin Way Community Room In 2006 following a severe summer rainstorm, several homes in Meldreth suffered badly from flood damage. None of these properties was located in areas identified by the Environment Agency as ‘Flood Risk’. To understand what had caused the flooding and how future flooding might be mitigated or avoided, Parish Councillors, affected residents and I formed a ‘Flood Avoidance’ group and spent many months learning as much as we could about Meldreth’s historic drainage network, including which parts of it had been dangerously compromised by new development, infilling or neglect. Close attention was paid to drainage issues on planning applications. A drainage information evening was held and attended by District and County Council officers who gave helpful advice on the ‘riparian’ responsibilities of property-owners whose land included drainage ditches or watercourses and how they might best maintain them. Both councils conducted investigations and commissioned minor works that made a big difference. A number of residents and landowners went to great efforts to improve drainage ditches on their properties. This very constructive pattern of cooperation has continued to the present time. Our Local Highways Officer Mike Cooper, who supported us throughout this time, retired in December. It seems a good time to hold another information evening: new council officers can hear first-hand about the pattern of drainage maintenance work carried out by the local community over the past ten years and residents can become better informed about Meldreth’s drainage issues and what they can do to make a positive contribution on their own properties. It will also be helpful to set out how we can make best use of council resources in an increasingly difficult financial climate – yes, the Highways department whose responsibilities include looking after drains, will take a further significant cut next year. Please do come along to the Elin Way Community Room on Monday 29th February, at 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome. Susan van de Ven Susanvandeven5@gmail.com 07905 325574
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Meldreth Pre-School www.meldrethpreschool.com As always, the New Year brings a new term and the children have enjoyed getting back into the swing of Pre-School after the Christmas break. We have a new member of staff to welcome to our team. Louise has already become a familiar face with children and parents alike. Our topic for this term is 'Feelings' so the focus has been on a specific feeling each week alongside our usual work on letters and sounds. The children are still braving the outside, despite the inclement weather, so there is plenty of muddy fun being enjoyed. We are hoping to gain more community involvement in the Pre-School for the future – the nature of the setting means that parents come and go every couple of years as their children move on to the Primary School so we would really like to reach out to people who might be able to offer their skills for the longer term. Specifically, we are looking for people to volunteer for the committee and for roles where they may have skills which they are happy to use for the benefit of the children in the setting. If you would like to offer your help to the Pre-School then we would love to hear from you – we have a lot of plans for the future but we need some support in realising them. We would really like to involve people who are keen to take on a project which could provide them with an opportunity to use their skills and help our Pre-School to continue to go from strength to strength. If you want to know more about what we do, have an idea for a fundraiser or are interested in joining the committee, please email preschool@meldrethpreschool.com or pop into the setting and speak to the staff. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
We are a friendly Pre-School offering a quality term-time service at competitive rates in line with NEF funding. We take children from the age of two and are happy to welcome children in nappies. You can find out about our Pre-School by visiting our website www.meldrethpreschool.com and following us on Facebook and Twitter. 10
Staff Vacancy We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic workers with CACHE Level 2/3 in Childcare to join our team as qualified bank /staff. We are also looking for a Deputy Manager with a minimum NVQ level 3 in Childcare and experience in a similar setting to support our Manager in a full time role. Meldreth Pre-School
Melbourn Village College Two Melbourn Village College students have started the new term with their fascination for all things mathematical boosted by a series of masterclasses. Year 8 pupils Dan Arthur and Thomas Cockman attended Mathematics Masterclasses at the University of Hertfordshire, where they attended six lectures hosted by Professor Alan Davies. He was joined by other member of the university staff, teachers and visiting lecturers as they introduced the teenagers to topics including mechanics, chaos theory, codes, ciphering and sequencing. The Masterclasses started life as Faraday’s Christmas Lectures and were originally scientific shows, with a maths lecture becoming part of it in 1978. After this, lecturers and teachers realised there was sufficient interest in maths to offer a stand-alone programme. The masterclasses began in 1984 and offered the most able young mathematicians the chance to expand their knowledge. Dan said, “Overall I found the experience enjoyable as it widened my mathematical understanding and presented me with new fields in this fascinating discipline, some of which are not covered during school maths lessons.� Alison Friday Melbourn Village College 11
Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk In the June 2015 issue of Meldreth Matters, I shared some ideas that the children had about their favourite aspects of living in Meldreth. This proved to be very popular with readers, so for this issue I have been back amongst our young learners with a new question: “What would you change in the world if you had the power to do anything you chose?” Some of the children in the Key Stage 2 classes had a rather sobering response to the question, perhaps reflecting their growing awareness of world affairs at this stage in their development. “I would put a stop to poverty so people would never have to feel upset.” Ruby aged 9 “I would stop burglars and robberies and terrorists and all the bad things.” Kai aged 9 “I would like to make sure there were schools for everyone in the world.” Isaac, aged 9 “I would let more refugees into the country and have cafes where you had an hour or two where things were cheaper so people with less money can enjoy things too.” Phillippa, aged 9 However, some of the older children took the opportunity of having all this power to initiate some more quirky changes! “I would have “money” trees growing in every garden.” Olivia B, 10 “Everybody would be born with a pair of wings so you could fly to wherever you wanted to go without worrying about the cost.” Freddy, 10
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“I would change the calendar so there were less days in a year … that way you would have birthdays more often!” Philip B, 10 “I would control time so people could go forwards or backwards to wherever they wanted in time.” Elias, aged 9 However, for the oddest, most offbeat and wonderful suggestions, I turned to some of our youngest children! Scarlett, aged 5, would, “turn everything to macaroni cheese, so we can eat it all!” George, aged 6, said, “I would make everyone smile more!” Finlay, aged 5, expressed a wish that I’m sure most of us share…. “If I had the power to change the world, I would make dinosaurs and people live together. Then I could meet a Spinosaurus, but there would be a big fence so they didn’t eat me’ Oh for a perfect world! I end with 10 year old Bobby’s wish, which is one that we may all do well to dwell upon, as she says, “I would make sure everyone’s voice could be heard.” The pictures show some suitably regal looking younger children practising their ballroom dancing during their study of traditional stories! Andrew Jones Deputy Headteacher
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1st Melbourn Guides Dolphin patrol’s fondant icing mermaid beside a beach of yellow tic-tacs was certainly a showstopper and their pancakes were excellent, but the Penguin patrol’s tasty chocolate fairy cakes, plus their teamwork and high washing-up standards scored them enough points to secure the title of Bake Off Champions 2015. Back in October we welcomed four new girls into the unit, and reminded all the Guides of their promise and law with a home-made board game based on snakes and ladders. They also made insect homes from bundles of bamboo canes, and learnt some sign language. Fire featured twice this term; we toasted marshmallows over a small outdoor fire before singing campfire songs indoors, then on Bonfire Night we learnt how to light a candle safely, and thought about safe routes out of our houses in the event of a fire. In November we had an indoor sports evening, then said congratulations and farewell to our four oldest Guides who had completed their Baden Powell Challenge, which is the highest award a Guide can achieve before her 16th birthday. This Christmas the Guides teamed up with Meldreth Brownies to provide a decorated tree for the Meldreth Christmas Tree Festival. They all used red and green card to make six-faced hanging shapes, decorated with pictures of Guide badges and symbols, alongside Christmas images using silver stickers and rubber stamping. Each girl was also given a tiny potted Christmas tree which they decorated with quilled baubles, curled ribbon and sparkly pipe cleaners. If you would like to know more about becoming a Guide or a leader, or if you have any skills or hobbies which you would like to share with us, please contact me on (01763) 261443 or email melbournguides@gmail.com. Hilary Marsh 14
What’s On for Children and Families in January Wednesday 17th February, 10.30am – 12.00pm Elves and Fairies, Royston Museum and Art Gallery Make fairy wings, a magic wand or an elf hat. Drop-in session – no need to book. £2 per person. Wednesday 17th February, 4.30pm – 8.30pm Twilight at the Museums, Cambridge A free evening of family-friendly adventure after dark in ten locations. Hunt for gadgets and gizmos at the Whipple Museum, spot Arctic and Antarctic animals at the Polar Museum, find dinosaurs lurking in the shadows at the Sedgwick Museum and don’t miss the ‘Horrible Histories’ music performances and daredevil fire jugglers at the Museum of Technology. Further details available at cam.ac.uk. Thursday 18th February, 3.00pm – 5.00pm Zoology Club Workshop, Cambridge University Museum of Zoology, Downing Street CB2 3EJ Dissect fly eggs with Dr Tim Weil in a research lab. Open to members of the Zoology Club (13 – 18 years). To join and book, send name, email address, postal address, parent/guardian’s name and email to umzc@zoo.cam.ac.uk. More information at museum.zoo.cam.ac.uk. There is also a Young Zoologists Club (6 – 12 years) – send details as above, plus date of birth, to join. Thursday 18th and Friday 19th February, 10.00am – 12.00pm and 1.00pm – 3.00pm Companionship, Care and Love Animal Active Tours Highway Cottage, Chishill Road, Heydon, Royston SG8 8PN Meet animals looking for new homes and help staff create toys for them. £5 per person (suitable for children 5 years and over). Booking essential - email handson@woodgreen.org.uk or call 0844 248 8181. Saturday 20th February, 10.30am -12.00pm Ruthless Romans, Royston Museum and Art Gallery Make a replica Roman sword and helmet. Drop-in session – no need to book. £2 per child. For information, telephone (01763) 242587 or email curator@roystonmuseum.org.uk. Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 15
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Letters to the Editor Meldreth Poppy Appeal 2015 May we through your publication express our many thanks to the villagers of Meldreth for their wonderful support of the 2015 Poppy Appeal with the total raised in the village amounting to just over £2,000. Sincere thanks also go to the small band of volunteers who undertook house to house collections and also to Janet Pilkington and Sarah Westbrooke for their distribution and collection of boxes. The Poppy Appeal is testament to the goodwill and generosity of communities throughout the country and last year over £40 million was raised nationally. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank John Chamberlain who organised the Meldreth appeal for many many years so successfully and wish him well for the future. Thank you again Meldreth. Mike and Ann Swann – Local Area Organisers
Thank You to Our District & County Councillors As we welcome in the New Year and all that it will bring us - the good times along with realistically the not so good, I would like to offer a special thank you to our two truly outstanding local councillors Susan van de Ven and Philippa Hart for all they have done in the past and what they will continue to do in the coming year. We are blessed here in Meldreth, Melbourn, Shepreth and beyond with having two people who work without stint for our communities. As so often happens there are always those who do not realise when they have a good thing and in fact do not deserve the excellence of the two women who fight their battles for them at Shire Hall and Cambourne. As I know only too well, local council representatives do not always possess the qualities we would wish for. It is our good fortune that we have these two to whom I send all the good luck that 2016 can offer them together with, I know, many others in our villages. Margaret Hunter 17
Melwood Management Plan As Melwood is a designated Local Nature Reserve Melwood Conservation Group is required to produce a management plan every five years. The first was prepared in 2004. This was revised with the assistance of the Wildlife Trust for the period 2011 to 2015. The latest version for 2016 to 2020 has now been completed and has been reviewed by the County Council officer responsible for green spaces. The whole document is available on the Group’s website at www.melwood.btck.co.uk. This article is a summary of the main points. Achievements 2011 to 2015 Regular work parties were held over the five years with a regular group of volunteers and some visitors, even including a student from China! These followed the schedule outlined in the management plan with the addition of extra sessions when necessary. Most of the work involved regular maintenance to encourage diversity of flora and fauna. This involves litter removal, cleaning and repairing bird and bat boxes, controlling nettles and cow parsley, brush clearance, mowing of the meadow and raking off of the cuttings. Brush and larger logs have been used to discourage the creation of new paths through the wood. Other tasks have included selective felling, pollarding and coppicing to allow light into the wood to encourage varied undergrowth. The yew hedge at the front of the meadow was pollarded and has grown back well. Trees were planted at the western edge of the meadow as well as hedge plants and a layered dead hedge at the southern edge. An interpretation board was installed and has received many favourable comments. Maps of the area have also been produced and kept updated. Species lists, which are also regularly updated, are available on the website. Events were held with the community including an activity with the Primary School which stimulated Cambridge University to initiate a series of projects on environmental outreach to schools in Cambridgeshire and internationally, with Government funding. The committee is delighted that the school has continued regular supervised visits to the wood following this initiative and one by the River Mel Restoration Group. The community has been kept informed of activities through regular articles in Meldreth Matters. 18
Main Operations for 2016 to 2020 The core of the plan is to continue along the same lines as previous plans within a framework of encouraging some areas to become dense and shrubby and others more open, light and airy. The activities planned are therefore: Encouragement of rich flora, and hence insect population, by selective felling, pollarding, coppicing and crown reduction Planting new trees where appropriate Seeding to introduce or expand the native species present in the wood and meadow Improve the main circular path around the wood by introducing edging and possibly wood chips Discourage other paths around the wood Continue with community events and working with the Primary School and Village College. The committee works closely with the River Mel Restoration Group and appreciates their suggestions for enhancing the area of the wood closest to the river. The achievement of the management plan objectives is only possible due to the dedication of the team of volunteers. Comments on the plan are welcomed and also additional volunteers. Please contact the group through the website “contact us� page or by telephoning me on (01763) 232855. Bruce Huett Communications Officer
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Melbourn and Meldreth Royal British Legion Women’s Section The Section was out in force on Remembrance Sunday in Melbourn and Meldreth. Our Standard was paraded in Melbourn by Mrs Parkinson and the wreath laid by our President, Mrs Chamberlain. The wreath at Meldreth was laid by our Chairman, Una Cleminson. A number of our Members collected for The Poppy Appeal. The Legion dispenses over £1.6 M a week for welfare causes, underlining how important the Appeal is. At the November meeting our guest speaker gave an interesting talk on aloe vera and the many uses that the plant has. Tea and mince pies ended the event.
In front of the newly restored Melbourn War Memorial. Left to right: Una Cleminson, Shirley Cunningham, Molly Chamberlain, Pauline Parkinson, Anne Neves
The Women’s Section is open to all women over 16 and we aim to make our meetings interesting and good fun. We meet at Vicarage Close Community Centre, Melbourn, at 2.00pm on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Prospective new members do not need a sponsor and will be assured of a warm welcome. Please come and join us. May we thank the Melbourn Fete Committee for their generous grant to our travel fund? This is used for transport to attend Group and County Legion events and ensures those without transport are not disadvantaged. For further details on the Women’s Section, please contact: President, Molly Chamberlain 07746 230072 Chairman, Una Cleminson (01763) 269544 Secretary, Elizabeth Murphy (01763) 220841 Una Cleminson 20
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21
Notes From a Small Garden In the greenhouse Jim has started off lettuce (Little Gem) in small trays; these will be planted in the large cold frame towards the end of next month, weather permitting. He has also set bush tomatoes (Red Alert), and strawberries (Temptation). They both need some warmth to germinate so have been placed in his airing cupboard. They should be looked at each day and removed as soon as they show signs of germination. Jim is not fully fit at the moment and has not dug the runner bean trench yet but hopefully a family member will help him. A trench is very useful at this time of year as all the green weeds can be skimmed off and thrown in; leaving the trench open until March. How irritating it is not to be able to work in the garden for more than half an hour! Julie is waiting for a back operation but at least she has Peter plus someone who comes for two hours each week to help. She has managed to cut down the vines, several grasses, perennials and the hellebore leaves in the last two weeks. The latter are looking beautiful, and grow well in several shady parts of the garden so it’s another job really worth doing. The unusually warm winter so far has been worrying in some ways for gardeners and the cold snap which has arrived as this article goes to press is to be welcomed. Many people in Meldreth have not only snowdrops and aconites out, but daffodils too. They are likely to fall over in the frost, but will they recover? Spring does need to be “put back” though, especially for the fruit growers, otherwise the flowers may catch the frosts we often have in March and April. We also need this cold spell to continue to get rid of garden pests, especially slugs! Jim’s list of things to do Spray peach trees with a copper spray (Vitax Enthusiast Range). This will give protection against peach leaf curl. Due to the mild weather, the autumn sown broad beans have grown very weak and straggly and may not stand up to any cold snaps. If they need to be re-sown he will set Witkiem Manita, which in most years matures as early as Aquadulce but from an early spring sowing. Other things to do Plant early potatoes in large containers in the greenhouse. Sow annuals in small pots. Try using yoghurt pots with a drainage hole made in the bottom. Sow cornflowers, Eschscholtzia, larkspur and 22
Shirley poppies. As it is early in the season these activities are subject to how cold it is. It’s best to sow only in small amounts. Good gardening! PS if you look on Meldreth Local History Group’s website, www.meldrethhistory.org.uk, you will now find an account of Open Gardens in Meldreth. Jim and Julie juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk, (01763) 260323 jane_eggleton@yahoo.co.uk, (01763) 261824
Foxton Gardens Association Foxton Gardens Association will be meeting on Friday 26th February at 7.30pm in Foxton Village Hall. Dr David Ellerton from Hutchinsons will be giving a talk on “The Science and Technology of Agriculture”. David is highly regarded in the agricultural industry and an excellent speaker. He will also relate the issues the farmer faces to those we face in our own gardens. Our own young and up and coming farmer, Tom Mead will also make a short presentation on the new technologies which are used today in agriculture and where this technology could lead in the future. Once again this should be a most interesting and worth while talk. Refreshments will be available. Mark Howard
Refuse Collections Collections in February will be on the following dates: Black bins:
5th and 19th February
Blue bins:
12th and 26th February
Green bins: 12th February Please note: there will be only one green bin collection in February. Fortnightly collections resume from March. 23
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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.
24
Good Companions The New Year is well and truly here and our first meeting was held on 6th January. We had an enjoyable afternoon chatting, catching up after the Christmas break over several games of Bingo! Tea and biscuits and a lot of fun yet again. Our next meeting on Thursday 4th February will be an afternoon of games – board games etc. All welcome - please come and join us. L. G. Pocknell, Secretary (01763) 261432
Joint Parish Prayer Group The Prayer Group will be meeting on Tuesday 16th February at 8.00pm at 85 North End, Meldreth. Prayer requests are welcomed and treated in strict confidence. Please join us for an hour of quiet meditation and prayer. Marion Long (01763) 261365
Church Services Sunday 7th February 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School Sunday 14th February 8.00am Holy Communion Sunday 21st February 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School Sunday 28th February 8.00am Holy Communion Marion Long 25
Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk FOHT Supper, 16th January Tickets for the supper were all sold quickly and by the time this magazine is published it will have been very much enjoyed.
This month’s Event Friday 12th February, 7.30pm: HM Diplomatic Service, A talk by Sir David Wright GCMG LVO former ambassador to Korea 1990-1994 and Japan 1996-1999 Tickets cost £7.50 (Friends £7.00) and include wine and nibbles. They are available from: Robert Long - (01763) 261365 Mary Gregory - (01763) 260120 Steve Marshall - (01763) 261442 Peter Chilvers - (01763) 260742 Forthcoming Events: Saturday 19th March 2016: Talk on Calligraphy A talk by Leda Lopes Cardozo about the late David Kindersley and his work on lettering and sculpture. Sunday 24th April: Open Gardens A chance to visit some of the most attractive gardens in the village Sunday 1st May: 32nd AGM This will be held in the Meeting Room at 8.00pm Planning is underway for the Summer Garden Concert and events in the autumn. John Price
Holy Trinity and All Saints Vacancy Interviews with four candidates were due to be held on 26th January and all being well a new vicar will be appointed by the end of January after meeting the Bishop of Ely, with licensing expected in late April or early May. John Price 26
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27
From Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch Fraudsters have been telephoning victims telling them that they have been placed in the wrong council tax bracket for a number of years and are entitled to a rebate. They usually say that this rebate should be worth about £7,000. Once the victim is convinced, the fraudster tells them that in order to receive the rebate they will need to pay an administration fee in advance. The payment they ask for varies between £60–£350. The victim provides the details and makes the payment, but then is no longer able to make contact with the person they spoke to on the telephone. When they telephone their council about the rebate and the fact that they are in the wrong tax bracket, the council will confirm that they know nothing about it and that they have been contacted by fraudsters. The fraudsters have mainly been targeting victims who are aged 60 and over and live in the Sussex area, but it is likely that the fraudsters will also start to target victims in other areas. Protect yourself from this and similar frauds: Never respond to unsolicited telephone calls. Your local council won’t ever phone out-of-the-blue to discuss a council tax rebate. If you receive a call of this nature, put the telephone down straight away. No legitimate organisation will ask you to pay an advanced fee in order to receive money, so never give them your card details. If you think you have been a victim of fraud, hang up the telephone and wait five minutes to clear the line as fraudsters sometimes keep the line open. Then call your bank or card issuer to report the fraud. Where it is possible, use a different telephone line to make the phone call. If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud you can report it online at http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud or by telephoning 0300 123 2040. There is a new Cambridge Police website for reporting a variety of issues: www.contactcambspolice.uk.
continued …. 28
The Bad-Wolf Test Do you feel that your home is safe and secure from the potential burglar? Take the bad-wolf test. It’s an online quiz that takes two minutes and tells members of public how safe their home is from burglars. They get a score of brick, twigs or straw. Anyone who gets the straw rating is given an email contact address and encouraged to get in contact with the police for a full home security survey. The test can be accessed at this address: http://tinyurl.com/bad-wolf-test. If you would like to get involved with Neighbourhood Watch in Meldreth, we have some areas that need coordinators. If you are the sort of person who like to watch out for neighbours and notices things out of the ordinary, this will allow you to contribute to keep crime low across South Cambridgeshire, so please contact Graham Borgonon on (01763) 260358. Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch
Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group The Group is for all women of any age. Meetings are held at 7.45pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month, except December and we vary our venues between Melbourn and Meldreth. We charge £1 on the night to cover expenses and there is an opportunity to make a donation to the chosen charity of the year. We usually have a guest speaker or some in-house entertainment followed by a chance to have a chat over tea/coffee and biscuits. At the time of writing we have yet to have our AGM but look forward to supporting a new charity for this year having supported HomeStart Royston and South Cambridgeshire last year. Our next meeting will be on 23rd February in the Meeting Room of Holy Trinity Church, Meldreth. We will start at our usual time of 7.45pm and look forward to Eirwen Karner talking to us about Norwegian dress and life. Please feel free to join us and if you would like any more information please contact me on (01763) 262575, Sue Toule on (01763) 260955, Anne Harrison on (01763) 261775 or Angela Leach on (01763) 262793. Pat Smith 29
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30
Volunteering Opportunities Please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com if you need volunteers for your group or organisation. EACH need South Cambridgeshire Volunteers - We Are Looking For Someone Like YOU! We are launching a new Fundraising Volunteer Network in South Cambridgeshire for 2016 and we need your help with a range of fundraising activities in your local area. Volunteers are an important part of our fundraising and by giving as little as a few hours you will be making a huge contribution to EACH and the families we support. There are a variety of ways that you can get involved ranging from helping at collections and raising awareness locally to organising an event with others. There are opportunities that only require only few hours of your time and for those wanting to get fully involved we can offer regular roles. There are many benefits to volunteering with EACH. You will be taking on a new challenge, meeting new and like-minded people, contributing to your local community and to EACH. As a fundraising team, we keep in touch with all our volunteers and support you in any way possible. There are a variety of roles available, depending on how much time you can give and what you are interested in. We will provide you with marketing and fundraising materials and you will be invited to our annual Volunteers Day and receive the quarterly volunteers’ newsletter. To find out more or to get involved contact Lucy Glover by email lucy.glover@each.org.uk or telephone (01223) 205198. Sophie Baker Assistant Fundraiser - Cambridgeshire 31
Meldreth Village Dia Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday 9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group
10.00am-12.00pm Handbell Ringing
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
5.30pm Slimming World 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Cam Valley 6.00-7.00pm Brownies Crafters 7.30pm Slimming World 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
Thur
2.00pm Good
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00 p Tennis
7.30pm Paris
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group
10.00am-12.00pm Handbell Ringing
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Cam Valley 6.00-7.00pm Brownies Crafters 7.45 Melwood AGM
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group
10.00am-12.00pm 5.30pm Slimming World Handbell Ringing 7.30pm Slimming World 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 7.00-10.00pm Cam Valley Crafters 8.00pm Joint Parish Prayer Group
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00 p Tennis
10.00am-12.00pm Handbell Ringing 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Cam Valley Crafters 7.45pm Women’s Group
10.30am 128 Meeting, She Housing, Elin 6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00 p Tennis
9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group
6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 5.30pm & 7.30pm Slim W 7.30pm WI
7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing
9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Dancing 7.30pm Drainage Information Evening, Elin Way (see page 9)
9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group 5.30pm Slimming World 6.00-7.00pm Brownies 7.30pm Slimming World 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing
Half Term is the week beginning 15th February
Did You Kn Every copy o onwards is a
Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 ‘Coffee Break’ mornings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Browni Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherw 32
ary - February 2016
sday
Friday
d Companions
Saturday
Sunday 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School
10.30am - 12 noon Coffee Break
m Fitness
m Table
h Council
m Fitness
7.30pm Friends of Holy Trinity Talk (see page 26) Holy Trinity Church
8.00am Holy Communion
Copy deadline for March issue 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School
m Fitness
m Table
8 Bus Users eltered n Way m Fitness m Table
2.00-8.00pm Exhibition on the Marley-Eternit planning proposals (see back page)
8.00am Holy Communion 2.30-6.30pm Tea Dance (bring and share)
Meldreth Village Hall
The copy deadline for the March issue of Meldreth Matters is Friday 12th February
ow? of Meldreth Matters from January 2009 available online at free.yudu.com
North End. Cam Valley Crafters, Good Companions, Meldreth Local History Group and the es & Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group meet in the Holy Trinity meeting room. The wise indicated. 33
Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 7th January 2016 at 7.30pm in the Green Room of Meldreth Village Hall. Present: Mr C A Land - Chairman, Mr R A Searles - Vice Chairman, Mrs C J Fallon, Mr S Hawkins, Mr A Keena, Mr D Lee, Mr D Stewart, Mr A Young In attendance: S Walmesley (Acting Clerk) Apologies were received from Mr N Pellatt, Mrs J Damant (Clerk), Councillor P Hart (SCDC) and Councillor S van de Ven (CCC) Report from District Councillor A copy of the report had been circulated to Councillors and is shown on pages 50-51. The planning application for 75 dwellings in the grounds of Foxton Hall was going before the South Cambridgeshire District Council planning committee on the 13th January. The proposal for 200 additional homes in Melbourn will be going to appeal in July 2016. The result of these will have a bearing on the proposed development on the Eternit site. Report from County Councillor This report had also been circulated to Councillors and is shown on page 47-49. It was noted the GP surgery capacity which would be relevant to any development at Eternit. Councillors raised concern over the village footways. The pavement between the shop and the war memorial to the west side of the road had been put on the resurfacing list. It has now been removed as the criteria has become more stringent as has already happened to the North End footway. Councillor van de Ven has asked for remedial work to be carried out on the worst areas. It was noted that resurfacing had taken place in Shepreth and Barrington. The last work carried out in Meldreth was some patching in Flambards Close. Councillor van de Ven advised that she would like to invite officers for a tour of the village to inspect the paths. 34
The path between the Showman’s site and West Way was then discussed. It was one of the conditions for the Showman’s planning permission that they had to install a path, which they did with consolidated granite chippings. Cambridgeshire County Council had said that they would follow this up in May 2015 but due to the bad weather this had not taken place. Councillor van de Ven had met with the Director of Highways, Emma Murden, in early December 2015 to look at this footway. She agreed the signs should have been relocated and was currently investigating the materials used in the path’s construction. Councillors agreed that it needed to be made clear to parishioners that the delay in any resurfacing was not the fault of the Parish Council and that the delay in resolving the issue by CCC/SCDC was unacceptable. Solar Farms Sun Edison (Bury Lane). The Clerk had eventually received a response from their Madrid office; our initial contact had left the company. This will now be progressed. Lightsource (Substation). The Clerk had spoken to the working group who advised that it was up to the Parish Council how much they wished to donate to the RSPB at Fowlmere. A formal request is awaited. Solar Money Working Group The next meeting of the group was due to be held in mid-January. A request is being investigated for upgraded Basketball facilities (see below). Overnight Parking along Station Road at Sudely Grove The sign had been ordered and would be placed to CCC Highways specification on the left hand side of the entrance. Possible Housing Development at Marley Eternit The public presentation on their plans will take place on Saturday 27th February between 2.00pm and 8.00pm in the Village Hall. (See advertisement on back page). Marley Eternit had agreed to pay for three banners and to carry out a leaflet drop, which the Parish Council would approve. It was suggested that the leaflet drop should also include Whaddon as some of their residents would be interested in the proposals and that 35
Marley Eternit be asked to purchase a fourth banner for erection outside the Eternit site so that everyone entering the village would see the signs. Playground Everything was reported to be in order. The slabs by the gate had been laid. A site meeting had been arranged with the supplier to extend the play area fencing. Quotes have been received to strim vegetation in the ditch, to remove tree stumps within the ditch along with other various tree works around the recreation ground and are being progressed. A request has been received for a better basketball area, which could be a project for the Community Solar Fund or S106 monies. Suggestions have been circulated to councillors. It was noted that the wooden basketball backboards on the hoops had been vandalised. It was suggested that metal basketball goals, as they had in the new Trumpington play area, be investigated in play equipment manufacturer’s brochures. Pavilion Parish Council representatives have met with architects and builders to look at the Pavilion. Following inspection they concluded that in their opinion it was not fit for purpose and unsuitable for a cost effective refurbishment. They suggested a new clad timber framed structure, which would cost in the region of £225,000 with a projected life span of up to 100 years. They posed five questions for consideration to address before proceeding: What are the inspirations of local residents for the Pavilion? Who would use it? How would it be managed? What would be the business plan? Where would the funding come from? Councillors all agreed with the comments made by the builders and agreed a positive way forward needed to be found. Parish Council funds could be spent on redecoration and refurbishment of the existing pavilion but the building would still be solely for use by the football clubs. 36
A member of the public was invited to speak and she advised that some other villages included changing rooms on their village hall sites which could be a possibility here. Councillors agreed that a professional opinion on the building needed to be sought and relayed to the village through Meldreth Matters. The Football Association will be asked for their view of the building as it is believed not to be up to the standard they require. Once this was confirmed by the FA then parishioners would be advised that unless people came forward to help to formulate a future strategy for the Pavilion it would close at the end of the current football season. Rugby Group Benevolent Fund The criteria for applying for funding is that if anyone who had worked for CEMEX lived in Meldreth, then Meldreth organisations are eligible to apply to the fund. There are people currently living in Meldreth who worked at the site when it closed. The clerk has more details. Mettle Hill Letters have been sent to all parties that had shown an interest in alternative uses for Mettle Hill as a result of the public consultation. They have been asked to develop their proposals and to attend a public presentation at the Annual Village Meeting on 19th May 2016. A discussion took place on the idea of a dual usage site so that a wildlife group could work alongside other parties. It was recognised that councillors would need to make the final decision based on parishioner feedback. A Park Homes developer will be included in the invitation. Correspondence and Clerk's Report The Practical Solutions Group (PSG) will be meeting on 4th February at Melbourn Village College. This meeting is for neighbouring parishes within the Melbourn Village College catchment area to help support social activities for young people. The youth club is one project already running. Apologies to be forwarded to Councillor van de Ven as Meldreth councillors will not be able to attend due to the February PC meeting. Correspondence has been received from a resident who would like to set up a project whereby young people are paired up with older residents in Meldreth and Melbourn. This could be a project for the PSG and has been referred to Councillor van de Ven who thought it would be a good idea. 37
The Bus Shelter at the Stocks has wood worm which should be treated. It appeared to be stable but might need new slats, if the wood worm had spread to the frame. Precept 2016/17 The draft budget prepared by the Financial Working Group was discussed. After discussion it was proposed that the precept amount for 2016/17 be ÂŁ57,345, an increase of 2% on the current year. Councillors' Reports Councillors have been advised of a complaint by a resident of Whitecroft Road regarding the smell of burning rubber. The resident will be advised to speak to the South Cambridgeshire District Council EHO officer. Pet Crematorium on A505 at Thriplow: concern was expressed over the proposals for this site which included a large pyrolysis centre with a 30 metre stack. Pollution could be an issue in the village and details will be circulated to councillors for discussion as an agenda item at the next meeting. Landscaping at Melrose The SCDC Planning Department has advised the Clerk that they are still looking into concerns that there did not appear to be any landscaping plans implemented for the site including the inclusion of a community orchard. The next meeting will be held in the 'Green Room' of the Village Hall on 4th February 2016 at 7.30pm. Meldreth Parish Council The official Minutes of Meldreth Parish Council are those signed in Public Meetings by the Chairman. They are available for public inspection from the Clerk and can also be accessed on the Parish Council website at www.meldreth-pc.org.uk or on the Parish Council notice board opposite the One Stop shop.
Meldreth’s Community Access Point Free tuition in computer use Whether you are a complete beginner or want to learn more about getting the best out of your computer, our volunteer tutors can help you. Interested? Call Ron on (01763) 262199 38
Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston SG8 6LT Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10.00 am to 12 noon. By appointment at other times. Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928 parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk Parish Councillors: Mrs C J Fallon
(01763) 262822
joan.fallon@btinternet.com
Mr S Hawkins
(01763) 261451
s.hawkins@dsl.pipex.com
Mr A Keena
(01763) 260267
alankeena@aol.com
Mr C A Land (Chairman) (01763) 261004
c.land963@btinternet.com
Mr D Lee
(01763) 261571
david@oakrits.plus.com
Mr Nigel Pellatt
(01763) 262444
nppellatt@btconnect.com
Mr R A Searles (Vice-Ch)
(01763) 260435
robert.searles@btinternet.com
Mr D Stewart
(01763) 261562
derekstewart67@hotmail.com
Mr A Young
(01763) 263484
andrewmpc@gmaail.com
Meldreth Local History Group Coffee Morning Meldreth Local History Group will be holding another of their popular Coffee Mornings on Monday 7th March between 10.00am and 12.00pm at the Sheltered Housing Community Room in Elin Way. Our guest speaker will be Wendy Braid, who is known as the Meldreth Showgirl. Wendy will tell us of her involvement with the WI, The Super Troopers and Frollies. Everyone is welcome to join us and contribute their memories in convivial company. For further details email info@meldrethhistory.org.uk. Terry Dash 39
Meldreth Then and Now Each month we are including ”then and now” images of Meldreth scenes. This month’s images are of the Sailors Return Public House on North End, now a private house. The top image is a Bell’s postcard dating from 1930s and the lower photograph was taken by Tim Gane in 2007. More information on the history of pub is available at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.
40
Meldreth Local History Group: The Marley Eternit Building Meldreth Local History Group would like to make Meldreth residents aware that the Marley Eternit (formerly the Atlas Stone Company) building in Whaddon Road is an example of Art Deco design and features a unique carving of the figure of Atlas (from Greek mythology). The building and the carving could be lost as a result of the proposed development of the site.
Above, the façade of the Marley Eternit building and right, the figure of Atlas. Photographs by Malcolm Woods
The building dates from the late twenties and is built from Cambridgeshire stock bricks. The Atlas Stone Company started trading in 1929, making asbestos sheets for the construction industry and was of national importance to the war effort. When the labour problems became acute due to so many men serving their country at war, local women from Meldreth and the surrounding villages were employed in addition to Prisoner of War labour. There will be an exhibition on Marley Eternit’s proposals to build 170 houses on their land on Saturday 27th February from 2.00-8.00pm in Meldreth Village Hall. The Atlas Stone Company façade stands as a testimony to the many men and women who worked there when times were hard and who served their country in time of need. We should campaign to preserve it if we can. Several pages on the history of Atlas/Marley Eternit are available on the History Group’s website, www.meldrethhistory.org.uk. Terry Dash Meldreth Local History Group 41
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Clearing out the Clutter for a Happy New Year Many of us move into the New Year with high hopes and ambitious resolutions made. Having a clear out of the clutter in your life is perhaps one resolution that I can help you keep for more than the average of three days! Why de-clutter your life The clutter surrounding you takes time to clean around and look after. It can frequently be the cause of time wasted trying to find things; the car keys that have slipped under a pile of papers or a favourite top that is buried in the drawer of clothes that the children have grown out of. Reducing the unwanted and unnecessary items in your house will free up space in your home to create the calm surroundings you crave and enable you to enjoy the things you choose to continue to live with. It really can be an exciting and rewarding process, once you get stuck in. Where to begin Start with one small drawer, counter surface or wardrobe – completing it will give you energy to start on the next space. Schedule in time; whether it’s every weekend for a month or the first Saturday of every month for a few months, schedule it in. As you sift through each item consider whether it actually makes you happy. If it doesn’t it should go into one of four boxes or piles – to donate, to sell, to recycle or to throw away. Each person in the house should have the right to decide how to deal with their belongings, so try to involve them in the process. Try to eliminate the guilt attached to certain items that you have held onto through obligation – this is where employing a neutral outsider can be really useful. Once you have been through each space, think about how to store the possessions you still want to keep in there. Devising new storage solutions for your home will really help to keep everything in order long after the big clear out. Clare Feenan 43
Boom … Diddy Boom … Diddy Boom ... In February, our thoughts often turn to our loved ones: what to do for Valentines day? A special night out or a sweet gesture to light up someone's day? Hearts and flowers are all around, but today I would like to talk to you about a different kind of heart ... our pets’ large and loving hearts ... the cardiac variety!! Cardiac disease is something that is more frequently diagnosed and treated by vets now than ever. These days veterinary medicine can offer all kinds of diagnostic tools ... heart scans, doppler, ECG, (other machines that go “ping”) and gladly many types of heart disease can be successfully treated. Of course heart disease is more common in older dogs and cats, and some breeds are more predisposed than others. Many of the symptoms attributed to “old age” are actually signs that something could be going wrong with the heart. In many cases a lot can be done about it, sometimes only needing simple daily medication, so it really is always a good idea to check. Annual checks are of the utmost importance. Part of the yearly vaccination health check will include the vet listening to the animal’s chest. This picks up any irregularity in the heartbeat, or heart murmur, but although it is very useful, not all heart disease can be detected like this. As a rather important organ in the body, if there are problems brewing there is always going to be a better outcome if things are spotted early, and that's where you come in! How the animal is behaving at home speaks volumes, and there are lots of things that you can be aware of which will help to keep your pet's ticker in tip top condition. So what can we look out for as owners? When should we book in to see the vet? Below is a helpful list, if your pet displays any of the following then it is a good idea to get them examined. Coughing - any cough that last for more than three days Difficult or laboured breathing Loss of appetite 44
Weight gain or loss, or a pot bellied appearance Reluctance to exercise/play Reluctance to be handled Fainting/collapsing Weakness Restlessness Any behavioural change that is out of character – some pets isolate themselves or become withdrawn. There is so much we can do for cardiac disease now and being observant and working with your vet will help to ensure that neither you, or your pet are left broken-hearted this year. Joanna Brown Registered Veterinary Nurse
Sky Blue Theatre Company Playwriting Competition Submissions are now being accepted for the British Theatre Challenge 2016 and thanks to our fantastic new website you can now submit your play directly on our playwriting page at skybluetheatre.com/playwriting -competition. Our challenge is all about promoting good writing which means we don't just choose one winning play, we choose ten pieces to be performed, filmed and assessed. One of the winning plays will also be chosen to be made into a short film. So what's stopping you? Get that new play written and make it happen. Entries close on 30th March. Further details can be found on our website. Anne Bartram Artistic Director Sky Blue Theatre Co. (01223) 529491 45
Lawncare Tips February-March •
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Commence the yearly lawn work programme from mid-February onwards provided weather conditions are suitable. A balanced spring feed, suited to low soil temperatures can be applied. An iron based product can also be applied to address the moss. Aerate/spike when conditions allow to stimulate soil organisms and root growth. Grass can be given a 'light top' with the mower when conditions allow.
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MELDRETH LANDSCAPES
Design & Layout Plans
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Planting & Water Features Pergolas, Decking, etc
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Kneesworth Rd., Meldreth, Royston, Herts
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County Councillor’s Report Drainage Information Evening Philippa Hart and I are organising a village drainage information evening, with the help of our respective council officers. The County Council says this would be helpful to the new Local Highways Officer (replacing Mike Cooper) who will be in post by late February/early March. The purpose will be for Council officers to understand the pattern of work carried out by the local community over the past ten years, for residents to become better informed about Meldreth drainage issues and what they can do to make a positive contribution, and to set out how we can make best use of District and County Council resources in a difficult financial climate. This will be held on Monday 29th February (see page 9 for details). It would be very good to have the Parish Council and the Flood Avoidance Subcommittee represented. 128 Bus Users Transport Coffee Morning This has been arranged for the morning of Thursday 25th February, at 10.30am in the Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way. December Grant Settlement The Chancellor’s final decision on grant settlements to local councils, just before Christmas, brought even worse news to Cambridgeshire than expected. We will receive £5 million less than anticipated, in addition to the £15 million reduction previously forecast. The Council can increase tax by up to 2% without a referendum; the Chancellor said that an extra 2% increase would be permitted, provided it is spent on social care. Even with the extra £4.8 million that would yield, the Council will have to make massive savings. This is happening across local government. Some of our individual funding formulas still put us at a distinct disadvantage in certain areas, for example public health, where an allocation of £36 per head compares with £60 nationally. It has been confirmed that local authority revenue support grant from central government will be completely discontinued and it is estimated that between 2010 and 2020, George Osborne will have cut council funding by 79%. That is a figure that helps explain and make some kind of sense of the scale of cuts we are being asked to work out. I will provide a systematic list of the main cuts once they have been confirmed in the council budget agenda for next month. Needless to say it is a hideous task to select what to remove out of a list of essential public services and most of those choices are objectionable. 47
Highways Cuts Some months ago I reported that Mike Cooper had confirmed that Meldreth High Street pavement between One Stop and the War Memorial on the west side of the road had been put on the resurfacing list. It has now been taken off the list, simply because criteria have become even more stringent. I have asked for reconsideration for the worst areas. Other Highways Issues Emma Murden, the Director of Highways, came out to Meldreth in early December to look at the Kneesworth footway issues we have been concerned about. Yes, the signage should have been moved before the footway was installed and she is finding out what should happen next. The question of the materials used in the construction of the footway is less clear and she is investigating this. She also said she would chase up the broken pipework issue under the High Street outside Key’s Cottage, which was discovered after last summer’s deluge. Rail Station Issues The Office of the Rail Regulator has published station footfall figures and there has been a sharp rise at Meldreth Station since 2010, and even from 2014 to 2015. 2010: 205,836; 2014: 243,646; 2015: 267,218 Peak time trains are now very full and the Rail User Group is working hard to ensure we get the best out of the Thameslink roll-out in two years’ time – that is when the new rolling stock comes to our area. I’m spending next Tuesday at a Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) stakeholder meeting in East Croydon talking about the community rail work in our area and hoping to make some progress in building up goodwill for things we need from our local rail service. There has been a fault with the Meldreth Station car park ticket machine. GTR have responded quickly but if anyone has been caught out, please do let the Rail User Group know so we can help. David Piggott’s Send-off at the Station Thank you to everyone in the village who joined in and made this such a memorable occasion. GP Surgery Capacity, ‘New Communities’ Following on from the Melbourn organised meeting of Parish Councils in the area, the question of capacity at GP surgeries to accommodate population increase has been raised. The County Council is involved in 48
a ‘Joint Strategic Needs Assessment’ study of health provision in new communities, to be completed in March. This should provide some helpful information and context for our area where speculative applications are concerned. The lead officer is happy to attend a future meeting of Melbourn-area Parish Councils. A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign Thank you for support received for the recent sponsored cycle ride on 19th December (photograph below) which highlighted the need for a safe off-road link connecting the A10 from Melbourn and Royston. The target was to raise £1000 for a community contribution to support match funding grant opportunities. This was surpassed and the total raised was £1514, with 72 individual donors. More donations have since been offered. Shepreth-Foxton Cycle Path Completion Work will start on about 11th January to complete the link from Shepreth Lakes to near Foxton Level Crossing. After that, work will take place at the Level Crossing itself. Funding comes directly from a Department for Transport grant ring-fenced for cycle infrastructure.
Frog End Junction Remedial Works Information Evening This was due to take place in late January. The works will hopefully take place in March. Drop-in Advice Surgery Please feel free to drop in at my monthly advice surgery at the Melbourn Hub: first Monday of each month, from 2.30-3.30pm. As always, if you’d like to meet at a more convenient time closer to home, this can easily be arranged. Susan van de Ven County Councillor 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com 49
District Councillor’s Report David Piggott's Farewell Celebration Susan has already reported on this well-attended event in Meldreth Matters. I would just like to say that the success of the event was chiefly due to Susan's wonderful organisation. I am sure we all recognise the wonderful service David Piggottt has given our community over many years. He will be greatly missed. Neighbourhood Plans Foxton is in the process of producing a Neighbourhood Plan and Shepreth is considering following suit. Meldreth produced its Parish Plan over a decade ago. Should there be any interest in updating and upgrading to a Neighbourhood Plan, SCDC has published a FAQ guideline document which I should be happy to forward if requested. Planning As I have reported before, South Cambridgeshire is in a vulnerable position with its Local Plan currently suspended, and huge downward political pressure to build more houses. At a local level this has resulted as follows: Marley/Eternit presented proposals to Meldreth Parish Council in November for a residential scheme comprising 170 houses on land it owns off Whaddon Road. They will be presenting their ideas to the village at an event to be held on Saturday 27th February from 2.00pm to 8.00pm in Meldreth Village Hall. Please come along - all are welcome. Gladman Development's scheme, originally for 95 houses in the grounds of Foxton Hall, was scaled back to an application for 76 dwellings and came again before SCDC Planning Committee on 13th January. The revised application was refused by Planning Committee on the same grounds as the earlier application as being of a size not in keeping with the existing village and representing a loss of amenity. However the earlier application has already been appealed. The proposal for 200 additional houses in Melbourn will also receive a second hearing scheduled for later in the year. A small scheme on County Council owned land adjacent to Collins Close in Shepreth is also being proposed and a public presentation was planned for late January. 50
Boundaries The South Cambridgeshire Civic Affairs committee sat on 12th January and agreed to recommend to the Boundary Commission the ward structure formulated by one of the Conservative members, realigning ward boundaries in the District. I am pleased to report that if this structure is adopted, then Shepreth will be put with Meldreth, Whaddon and Melbourn and will be a two-member ward. Philippa Hart District Councillor, Meldreth and Shepreth Ward philippajhart@btinternet.com 07811 323571 or (01763) 261255
Melbourn Sports Centre Here are a selection of classes taking place at the sports centre. Aerobics Aerobics is a great mix of cardio, sculpting and hi/low intensity moves that will keep you on your toes and allow you to have fun while you work out. It is great for targeting legs, bums and tums. This class can be a fantastic way to get in shape, burn fat and add more variety to your workout. Suitable for 16 years and above Monday 7.05–8.05pm. Gold Members are free. Non members £4.50 per session. Boxercise Boxercise is a class using boxing movements to improve overall fitness, co-ordination and flexibility. Mondays 7.00–8.00pm. Gold members free entry; Bronze and Silver members £4.35 - £5.15; Non members £5.40 - £6.15. Body Workout 3 in 1 exercise class (cardio, strength and stretching), ideal for those who are limited for time. Wednesdays 6.30–7.30pm. Gold members free entry; Bronze and Silver members £4.35 - £5.15; Non members £5.40 - £6.15. For full details on these and other classes, please visit our website or call us on (01763) 263313. Graham Johnson-Mack Melbourn Sports Centre 51
News From Heidi Allen In early December, I spoke in the Commons on the subject of mental health, a topic very close to my heart. In my first few months as an MP I received a letter from a constituent from Meldreth, Steve Mallen about the tragic suicide of his son Edward. Following the death of his gifted and wonderful son, Steve set up the MindEd Trust. With the support of schools, charities and world leading academics, Steve’s ambition is to roll out a wellbeing programme in schools to help with young people’s mental health. Steve and I have met with Government ministers to enlist their help and the Rt Hon Alistair Burt, the Minister for Care and Support, has agreed to attend the launch conference in Cambridge on 18th March. If you would like to learn more or be involved, please get in touch with my office. You can contact me on (01954) 212707, heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk or @heidiallen75. My next surgery dates are 5th February in Sawston and 11th March in Melbourn. Heidi Allen Editor’s Note. The MindEd Trust has created a permanent on-line donation site via BT’s MyDonate site. Unlike many giving sites, MyDonate has no fees or charges and is also fully accredited for Gift Aid. If you would like to support the vital work now being undertaken by The MindEd Trust, please visit https://mydonate.bt.com/charities/ themindedtrust.
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Local Events in February Here is a selection of events happening nearby in February. To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Until Sunday 7th February Art at the Plough: Atelje Art Show - Seeing Music The Upper Galleries, The Plough, Shepreth Visit this wonderfully mixed exhibition, SEEING MUSIC by Atelje. Atelje is both the Swedish word for ‘studio’ and the group name of the adult students working from Deanna Tyson’s Fulbourn studio. Tuesday 2nd February, 11.00am to 1.00pm or 7.00pm to 10.00pm Create your own Candlemas Table Arrangement Abington Pigotts Village Hall, SG8 0SH Tickets £12 from Tracy on (01763) 262262. Please bring sharp scissors, a coffee jar lid and small-leafed foliage (not yellow) if you have some. Tea, coffee and delicious home-made cakes available. Proceeds to Home-Start Royston and South Cambridgeshire. Friday 5th February, 7.30pm ‘Tunes and Spoons’, Queen’s Road Methodist Church, Royston An evening of your favourite music plus delicious desserts. Tickets £8 (£4 for 16 & under) from Sue on (01763) 243815. For more information, or to request a piece of music, contact Richard Elcock (01763) 208381. Proceeds shared between Church funds and HomeStart Royston & South Cambridgeshire. Sunday 7th February, 11.00am to 3.30pm Hedgelaying – Conservation Volunteer Day Wandlebury Country Park, Gog Magog Hills, CB22 3AE Free event but suggested donation of £5; booking and suitable clothing essential. Further details: cambridgeppf.org. Friday 12th February to Wednesday 17th February e-Luminate Cambridge Festival For six consecutive evenings, visitors are invited to see Cambridge in a new light; breath-taking light installations created by artists, designers and technologists will transform the city and some of its most famous buildings. To sign up for more information: e-luminate festivals.co.uk. Saturday 13th February, 7.30pm Valentine’s Supper, Barley Town House, Church End, Barley Tickets £17.50 to include welcome drink and canapés, three course meal, bar and raffle: (01223) 264355. Proceeds to Save the Children. 54
Saturday 13th February, 10am-5pm & Sunday 14th, 10am-4pm The Cambridge Living History Fair Wood Green Animal Charity, London Road, Godmanchester The market place for re-enactors, historical interpreters, the heritage industry and historical enthusiasts. Admission £2. For more information please visit: historiaoriginata.wordpress.com. Saturday 20th February, 8.30am Men’s Breakfast Meeting, Foxton Village Hall Rajinda Sharma will talk about ‘Smart Cities’ and how we can use technology to develop and find our way round them. To book breakfast contact Mark Howard at Mark-Howard@UWclub.net, (01223) 503377 or Tony Garrick at garrick.tony@gmail.com, (01223) 510201. Saturday 20th February, 10.30am to 3.00pm The Love Food Fair Cambridge Central Library, 3rd Floor 7 Lion Yard, Cambridge CB2 3QD Top tips on food, eating healthily and growing your own produce from a variety of local organisations - and some tasty samples! Free. Wednesday 24th February, 2.00pm to 3.30pm Meet the Artist: Mike Dobson Royston & District Museum & Art Gallery, SG8 5AL Pop in to the Museum and see their latest exhibition by Mike Dobson. Meet the artist and chat about his work and the techniques he uses to create his inspired portraits. Refreshments available. For more information: (01763) 242587; email: curator@roystonmuseum.org.uk. Friday 26th February, 7.30pm Foxton Gardens Association Talk: The Science and Technology of Agriculture, Foxton Village Hall See page 23 for details of this event. From Sunday 28th February to Sunday 20th March, 11.15am to 12.15pm for four Sundays Introduction to Nordic Walking - 4 week course Wimpole Hall, Arrington, SG8 0BW Join qualified instructor Mandy Coar to master the basics of Nordic walking – a workout that tones the whole body. £9 per session if paid weekly or £32 total if paid in advance. Call Mandy (01763) 853595 to book your place. Compiled by John Crawforth 55
MELDRETH WEDNESDAY 5.30pm & 7.30pm Meldreth Village Hall Hig h Street, Meldreth Tel: Karen 01763 243604
Personal Trainer Michael Easton
Training in Your Own Home or at Melbourn Gym Individual, personalised programmes http://backtothefitness.co.uk
01763 249254
Professional, Friendly and Reliable Window Cleaning Service Andy Armstrong M: 07791769036 E: andy@armstrongwindowcleaning.co.uk www.armstrongwindowcleaning.co.uk
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Love Your Home-Start We are delighted that many schools and organisations in Royston and the surrounding villages are supporting ‘Love Your Home-Start’ during February. Schools and local organisations in Royston and the surrounding area are being asked to unite for one day on Friday 12th February 2016 under the strap line of “Love your Home-Start”. Some schools are having a ‘Dress Down’ day: a collection is taking place at Tesco on 11th February and large employers are making collections for us. Home-Start have chosen the timing to challenge the pressure and commercialism of Valentine’s Day. In schools, for a suggested donation of £1, each child will go to school in “mufti” and all children, whether they donate or not, will receive a ‘Love Your Home-Start’ sticker. Organisations will place Home-Start collecting tins and stickers in various places on their premises. Like the local schools and other organisations, Home-Start does not work with individuals in isolation. We are aware that to succeed in life the building blocks of a good and stable family life provide the foundation on which children can thrive. Home-Start’s ethos is to empower the family and offer preventative support at the start of family life which has longer lasting impact than allowing problems to escalate at a later stage. We would like to thank everyone who will be taking part and would welcome any other organisation who would like to join us to contact us on (01763) 262262 or email admin@hsrsc.org.uk. Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire
Royston Choral Society Come and sing Stainer’s Crucifixion at Royston Parish Church on Saturday 5th March. Singers of all abilities welcome. Registration at 12.00pm, singing starts at 12.30pm. The afternoon ends with a sing through at 4.30pm which friends and family are welcome to attend free of charge. Admission £10. Book at www.roystonchoralsoc.org.uk. Jenny Leitch, RCS Publicity Officer 57
Healthwatch Cambridgeshire Had a recent experience of using health or social care? Tell us what it was like for you. Listen Tell us what is working well within our local health and care services and what you think needs to be better. We log what you say and share this anonymously with the people who make decisions about our care. This helps them improve care. Involve We can make sure you know about local opportunities to have your say on health and care decisions. You can sign up for regular updates, or get in touch whenever you want some information. We can help you find out what health and care services are available locally, or how to raise a concern. This is a free, independent and confidential service. Challenge Healthwatch can challenge health and care decision makers if care isn’t working in the way it should. We can also challenge, if we think a decision has been made where people have not been able to contribute. They have to listen to us, and they have to reply. Get in touch Please tell us how care is working right now for you and the people who are important to you. Your experiences are important to us. We are happy to talk to local groups and attend events, so please invite us. Contact us at www.healthwatchcambridgeshire.co.uk or telephone (01480) 420628. Healthwatch Cambridgeshire
Unwell? Choose Well Your pharmacist, GP or NHS 111 can help you to get treatment quickly. A & E is for life-threatening emergencies only.
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National Libraries Day: Saturday 6th February Events and activities to mark National Libraries Day will be held in local libraries. Please check the website or Facebook for details. Since 2012, the Library Service has saved £2.5m and now needs to save a further £0.5m. Previously, savings have been made from back office support, management costs, a more self-service approach, some service reductions and other efficiencies across the service. Now, we have to make some tough decisions and we are asking people for their opinions about the options facing us. Proposals include a combination of reducing opening hours at larger libraries, reducing management and professional staff and spending less on new library stock. Other options are still being discussed by the Council, in particular budget proposals for the Mobile Library Service. Please take some time to complete this survey by Monday 15th February: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/S6TUS/. Cambridgeshire Libraries Service
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service www.cambsfire.gov.uk At Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, the men and women on our frontline deliver important fire safety advice to dozens of different communities. From visiting schools to care homes, mother and toddler groups to community fetes, our firefighters play an integral role in keeping your community safe. And we’d like you to think about joining us. The role of a firefighter is varied and exciting but most importantly, it can make a real different to people’s lives. The next recruitment process for wholetime firefighters opens on 6th February. To find out more, log on to www.cambsfire.gov.uk. You can also find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service (01480) 444500 www.cambsfire.gov.uk 59
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For all gardening / handyman jobs give me a call… For grass cutting / weeding / fence painting / hedge cutting and handyman jobs as well. Phone: 01763 249004 01763 241744 Email: klf2011@hotmail.co.uk
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WE LISTEN SUPPORT ADVISE EMPOWER. YOU ASPIRE. There are many demands on a business owner’s time, and despite what most accountants think, the accounts are not usually at the top of the list! Having the support of a Business Advisor who not only takes care of the financial essentials but who listens and empowers you to focus on those areas that only you can deal with is essential in helping your business thrive. If that’s the kind of relationship you want with your accountant, give us a call. Bracey’s Accountants (Cambs) Limited HFL House 1 Saxon Way Melbourn Cambs SG8 6DN Tel: (01223) 929150 Email: tracey@braceys-accountants.co.uk
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Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address
Detail
Parish Council Recommend
Land adjoining Proposed two 47 Howard Road, bedroom dwelling S/2724/15/FL and access
Meldreth Parish Council recommend refusal on the grounds that this would be an over development of the site. There were also concerns over the number of exits onto the bend in the road.
The Sidings, 7A Whitecroft Road, S/2981/15/LD
No comments
Orchard Cottage, Bury Lane, S/2244/15/OL
Information Only – Lawful Development Certificate for conversion of integrated garage to habitable space Outline application for the erection of timber eco-friendly detached house (all matters reserved)
Meldreth Parish Council recommend refusal on the grounds that this proposed dwelling would be outside the village envelope. If approved it would set a precedent for other development in the countryside (HG/7 Replacement dwellings in the countryside).
The full minutes of Meldreth Parish Council planning meetings are available on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.
SCDC Decisions Reference and Address Decision
62 North End S/2290/15/FL.
Demolition of five bedroom chalet style house and erection of a four bedroom two storey house permission granted
12 Howard Road S/2233/15/FL
Two storey side extension to footprint of existing single storey extension - permission granted
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 61
(01763) 262199 Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358 (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Sherida Richards—(01763) 262512 Paul Ray—(01763) 260304
Good Companions Local History Group Lunch Club Melwood Cons. Group
L. Pocknell—(01763) 261432 (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 Maureen Moody—(01763) 260938
Sport
Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club
S. Lambert (01223) 207888 Janet Pope (01763) 248342 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 Tracy Aggett—(01763) 243376
Church
Rev. Mary Price Bells John Price (Friends)
(01763) 261569; www.meldrethchurch.org.uk Peter Hinton—(01763) 262045 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk
Baby & Toddler Group Pre-School Primary School
Rosalind Wing - 07432 150721 07518 173653; www.meldrethpreschool.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk
Parish Council District Councillor District Council Offices
Please see details at end of Parish Council report Philippa Hart—(01763) 261255 03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/ Susan van de Ven—07905325574 susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/ 0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Heidi Allen—(01954) 212707 www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/
Councils & Govt.
Clubs & Societies
Facilities
Community Access Point Litter Picker Neighbourhood Watch One Stop Village Hall Bookings Village Hall Chairman
Childn.
Village Directory
County Councillor County Council Offices MP
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Transport Health Support Services Emergencies NonEmerg. Misc.
Station Ticket Office
(01223) 453702, Mon - Fri 7-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.25pm
Rail User Group
(01763) 261833; www.melbourn.org.uk/railusergroup
Govia/Great Northern
www.thameslinkrailway.com
The Trainline Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc. Streetlights (faulty)
www.thetrainline.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge 0345 045 5212; http://www2.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ HighwaysReports/Highways/ReportProblem1.aspx 08007838 247 - give location, fault & SC or CCC no.
Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS
(01763) 260220; Dispensary—(01763) 261246 (01223) 245151 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)
Childline
Community Transport Home-Start Mind (mental health) Samaritans
0800 1111 (24 hours) Cambridge: 0344 848 7979 Royston: 03444 111 444 www.citizensadvice.org.uk (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org
General Emergency Gas Electricity Anglian Water Cambridge Water
999 or 112 0800 111 999 0800 783 8838 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk
Crimestoppers
S Cambs Fire & Rescue
0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org 101; www.cambs.police.uk Report issues: www.contactcambspolice.uk (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk
Melbourn Hub
(01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com
Royston Museum
(01763) 242587; www.roystonmuseum.org.uk
Citizens Advice Bureau
Police
Details of village groups and facilities can be found on the PC website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk or the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk. Meldreth Matters Team: Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Distribution & Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Cover & Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Founder Member: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available online at free.yudu.com (search for Meldreth)
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Advertising Rates Size per issue Half page £27.25 Quarter page £16.50 Eighth page £8.75 Business listing per line
6 months £134.00 £74.00 £43.00 £11.00
12 months £216.00 £118.00 £65.00 £16.00
Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request. For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on (01763) 262176.
Index to Advertisers Meldreth Matters depends entirely on advertising revenue to cover its production costs. Please mention Meldreth Matters when contacting our advertisers. Lynn Driscoll Foot Care ...................27 Mandy Thornton Counselling ..........16 MCT Construction ...........................16 Melbourn Flooring ...........................24 Melbourn Village College..................21 Meldreth Landscapes ........................46 Meldreth Plant Hire ..........................52 Meridian Lawncare ..........................27 Michael Easton Personal Trainer ......56 Moncraft Computers ........................24 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service 56 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......53 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ..................53 The Picture Framers ..........................27 Reflections Hair Studio .....................16 Richard Burns Electrician ....................2 Rod’s PC Support..............................30 Royston Fencing................................24 Salisbury String Quartet .....................6 Shelford Energy ...................................6 Slimming World ...............................56 Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ..............46 Summit Landscapes ..........................21 TCS Design ................................ Cover Walkers Partnership Solicitors ..... Cover Weight Loss and Nutritional Advice .30
A10 Timber...................................... 6 Algarve Villa ................................. 42 Armstrong Window Cleaners ......... 56 Art of Clean ..................................... 2 Art of Clean Wood ......................... 42 B2B Automotive ............................ 53 Bracey’s Accountants .................... 60 Cambourne Self Storage ................ 19 Cambridge Roofers ......................... 2 CHS Day Centre ............................. 6 CHS Group .............................. Cover College Farm B & B ...................... 27 Coton Electrical ............................ 30 The Country Store ......................... 42 Ely Design Group ............................. 2 Eternit Sports and Social Club ........ 60 Fen Feeds Limited ......................... 60 Gilhooly ........................................ 21 Granta Montessori Shepreth ........... 6 Home Foot Care ............................. 2 iPlaster .......................................... 42 James, Handyman .......................... 60 JPK Plumbing and Heating ............. 16 Keyholes Driving School ........... Cover Lawn Partners ................................. 46 The Letting Centre .......................... 42 Little Hands Nursery School ........... 24 64
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170 More Houses in Meldreth? ♦ Marley Eternit have closed a major part of their factory on Whaddon Road ♦ They wish to put 174 houses on this brownfield site OR ♦ Put a similar number of houses on their farmland between the factory and Fenny Lane Eternit and Meldreth Parish Council want your views Find out more Have your say Come to a Public Exhibition on the proposals
in Meldreth Village Hall Saturday 27th February 2.00pm to 8.00pm Meldreth Matters is printed by Plumridge Printers 41 High St Linton 01223 891407