Meldreth Matters, January 2018

January 2018

In this issue ...

Obituary of Don Chinery Pupils’ Wishes for 2018 Events include …

FOHT Supper Messy Church Tennis Club Quiz

THE WALKERS PARTNERSHIP SOLICITORS Is it your New Year’s Resolution to make a Will or revise your existing Will?

If so, please take advantage of our Special New Year reduced rate Wills offer.

Reduced rate wills will be available every week day from 8.00 am until 6.00 pm (Tuesdays until 8.00 pm) by appointment only.

Also on the Saturday mornings of 6th and 20th JANUARY, again by appointment only. : Reduced rates are:Double Wills - £250.00 plus VAT Single Will - £130.00 plus VAT HOME VISITS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE WITHIN A 20 MILE RADIUS OF ROYSTON. For more information please contact:Fish Hill Chambers, 2-3 Fish Hill, Royston, Herts SG8 9JY Tel: 01763 241121 t.donnellan@walkerspartnership.co.uk

Contents People Don Chinery 3-5

Gardens & Nature Gardening 10-11 Melwood 8-9 Otter Autopsy 11

Village Groups Coffee Break 15 Good Companions 50 Local History Group 12 Photographic Club 48 Tennis Club 52 WI 51 Women’s Group 50-51

Church Christmas Tree Festival 56 Friends of Holy Trinity 54-55 Prayer Group 51 Local/National Government County Councillor 29-32 District Councillor 42-43 Futures Group 27 Heidi Allen, MP 44-45 Parish Council 37-41 Planning Applications 62-63

Children & Education Baby & Toddler Group 15 Events for Children 25 Meldreth Manor 22-23 Messy Church 17 Pre-School 16 Primary School 18-19 Primary School PTA 20

Charities Home-Start 33, 64-65 Advice/Information Advertisers’ List 68 Be Seen, Be Safe 2 Dementia Group 65 Mobile Warden Scheme 5 Neighbourhood Watch 26-27 Refuse Collections 65 Village Directory 66-67

What’s On Summary of Meldreth Events 7 Local Events 58-59 Local Facilities/Issues A10 Cycle Campaign 32 Maycroft 47

Cover: Topcliffe Mill, North End. 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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Editorial On behalf of the Meldreth Matters Team, I’d like to wish all of our readers and advertisers a very healthy and Happy New Year.

This issue marks the beginning of my fourteenth year as Editor of Meldreth Matters. During that time, the magazine has gone through several design changes and has grown from an average of 29 pages per issue in 2005 to an average of 63 last year. I’m sure there can’t be many villages of this size that produce such a large magazine every month. It is only possible due to the many regular contributions we receive from village groups and individuals who recognise that even in these days of online media a traditional village magazine still has its uses!

Contributions to the magazine are always welcome, so why not take a lead from the Primary School pupils (pages 18-19) and let us know what your hopes and wishes are for the coming year? Email your contributions to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Kathryn

Be Seen, Be Safe!

If you're a driver, then you'll know how difficult it can sometimes be to see pedestrians or cyclists at night when they are wearing dark clothes or when visibility is poor.

With the very poor lighting in many parts of the village, it is especially important to make sure that you can be seen at night when you are walking or cycling.

To be seen, why not:  Carry a torch - not only will it help you to see; it will also help

motorists to see you  Wear some white, bright or light clothing  Wear reflective clothing or armbands  Use front and rear lights when cycling and wear reflective

clothing.

The Meldreth Matters Team 2

Donald Robert Chinery 14/8/1921 to 25/10/2017 Don was born in Upper Sheringham, Norfolk to James and Maud. He was the fourth of their five children; three boys and two girls. Tragically James was killed in a wagon and horse accident when Don was about twelve years old, leaving Maud to bring up the children alone. This was before the welfare state and times were very difficult for them.

Don won a scholarship but due to family finances it was decided he would have to get a job instead of continuing in education. He joined Lusher’s Bakery in Sheringham as an apprentice baker and confectioner.

He often spoke of his work in the bakehouse with affection.

Soon after the outbreak of WW2 in September 1939, Don slipped away to Norwich and signed-up for the RAF, volunteering for aircrew. His boss told him he was “a very silly fellow” or words similar to that!

Maud went ballistic and raved at him in no uncertain terms.

At one stage prior to operational duty, Don was posted to RAF Bassingbourn for air gunnery training. Whilst there he went to a dance in Meldreth Village Hall, there he met Margaret Jacklin who was playing in Gordon Handscombe’s Band, “The Rhythm Rascals”.

Soon after this meeting the USAF 91st Bomb Group, took over Bassingbourn and Don was posted to a number of different aerodromes, ending up at RAF Coningsby and Skellingthorpe with 61 Squadron. This brave fellow did two operational tours over occupied Europe as rear gunner. It is quite unbelievable for us to comprehend today. He was in the first 1000 bomber raid on Nuremburg; 100 aircraft and 700 crew failed to return.

Before his de-mob, Don by now promoted to Warrant Officer, wangled a posting back to Bassingbourn, as an air gunnery instructor. He soon popped back to Meldreth to see Margaret and proposed to her. They were married in Holy Trinity Church in 1946.

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Don worked for a short time after de-mob at “The Corner Cafe” on Royston Cross but the pay was low and the hours unsociable. He was offered and accepted a non-shift job at the Atlas Stone Company in the village, where he spent the rest of his working life. He was presented with a gold watch in 1978 for 25 years service. He really should have received this five years earlier due to keeping “bakers’ hours”; he was always at work an hour early!

In the early 1960s Don was involved with Meldreth Church Lads Brigade, alongside the Rev Jukes and Mr Frazer. Don was also a keen sportsman, playing football and darts, being a founder member of the Dumb Flea darts team. He also went fishing and ten pin bowling, winning a great deal of silverware with the Atlas team in the Stevenage league. Margaret and Don were also accomplished ballroom dancers.

Don and Margaret’s Ruby Wedding party in the Village Hall was a memorable occasion. Don had made the cake for the celebration. He eagerly greeted all with “suitable refreshments”; I believe he also had the odd one himself too. It came to light, later, that he had also had one or two at the Atlas Sports and Social Club that lunchtime to mark his retirement. Part way through the evening, Don was overcome with “a fit of the vapours”: legs wobbly, eyes out of focus, losing his balance. He was assisted home to bed. Our son had to step in and help Margaret to cut the cake. Don awoke in the morning with a bent ear and black coffee!

Don and Margaret lived in the village until her untimely death, whilst on holiday in Sheringham. Don later moved into a bungalow in Clear Crescent in Melbourn, along with his infamous red buggy. Whilst there he fell ill and spent many months in Addenbrookes. After this he luckily he secured a place in Moorlands, where he lived for 17 years.

Moorlands site was redeveloped during his time there resulting in him getting a superb new flat. He loved his time there and was their longest lease holder. The staff there are the most dedicated one could ever meet; they are just fantastic. The love and kindness the whole staff gave Don, especially in his later years, was exceptional. Robert, one of the carers, even took Don to IWM Duxford a number of times to see his beloved Lancaster, all in his own time, too. On one trip, Don was interviewed by the BBC Antiques Roadshow programme and repeats still pop-up on TV. When asked by Christine Trevelyan “Would you do it again?” “Yes, tomorrow” was his instant reply.

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Don was awarded The Légion de Honneur in 2016 by the President of France, for his part in the liberation of France on D Day. This was presented in a ceremony, beside the rear turret of “his”, Lancaster at IWM Duxford by Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire DFC; all kindly arranged by IWM Duxford.

Don died peacefully in his own bed, thanks entirely to the dedication of the Moorlands staff, our local doctors and the district nursing team.

His funeral was conducted by Marion Long in Holy Trinity Church with committal in Fenny Lane cemetery, and was followed by refreshments in The British Queen.

Don leaves two daughters, Pam and Trish, three grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Don was interviewed by Meldreth Local History Group in 2009 and extracts from the interview are available on their website, www.meldrethhistory.org.uk. Please find time to listen to and/or read the transcripts.

Pam Winter

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme

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

What are our Services?

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

What will it cost?

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

How can I join?

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

Melbourn Warden Scheme is a registered charity 5

The Letting Centre Setting Standards in Property Management Established 23 years, The Letting Centre is a local, dedicated letting agency based in Melbourn. With longstanding clients some of whom have been with us for 20 years or more, we aim to provide a personal, tailored service covering Cambridge, Royston, Buntingford, Saffron Walden and surrounding villages.

We offer discounted fees for multiple properties, as well as those located in Melbourn and surrounding area.

Call us for a free market appraisal and comprehensive landlord pack.

The Letting Centre, 24b Orchard Road, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 6HH Tel. 01763 263039

Fax 01763 263458 email enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk

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January Events in Meldreth

Friday 26th January Tennis Club Quiz Village Hall See back cover

Sunday 28th January

Saturday 27th January

Messy Church: Noah to the Rescue!

FOHT Supper Holy Trinity Church

Holy Trinity Church

See pages 54-55

See page 17

Meldreth Football Club Fixtures Saturday team home fixtures (subject to change) 6th January 27th January Sunday team home fixtures (subject to change) 7th January 14th January 28th January Joan Fallon 7

The Importance of Melwood in the Wider Countryside It has been very noticeable in recent weeks that the numbers of birds making use of the nut and seed feeders in my garden has been consistently higher than over the last two or three years. I do not know the reason for this but one possibility is that food in the surrounding fields is scarcer and birds are using gardens as their preferred food stations. As more houses are built around the margins of our villages, this situation is likely to become worse. In Meldreth, we are lucky to still have a pleasant wooded walk along the river, providing good cover for birds but look closer and you’ll notice a distinct lack of suitable seeds and berries. In Melwood, we therefore seek to increase the variety of flowers on the woodland floor and look for quiet areas where berry producing bushes can be encouraged. This will benefit nectar feeding insects when flowers are present and seeds and fruit for birds in the autumn and winter. On farmland, farmers may occasionally scatter bird seed mixtures along paths adjacent to their crops but there are risks in this if the seed mixture contains species which are not native to the area and may be spread by the birds or simply grow in the surrounding countryside. This is a risk too far for Melwood, where we aim to keep introductions limited to species that grow locally or in similar nearby habitats.

Three main factors influence what may be persuaded to grow in Melwood: 1. Tolerance for a slightly alkaline soil 2. Ability to tolerate prolonged dry periods, especially but not exclusively in summer 3. Sufficient light for healthy growth.

Of these three, the last is the only one over which we have much control, although we seek to influence the second by spreading green mulch in selected areas to try to increase the organic content of the top soil layers.

This winter, we will be cutting back a lot of the unproductive elder scrub to open up the floor of the wood and encourage seed germination. This process started with our November working party.

Alongside this, some of the largest and unproductive hawthorn and hazel bushes will be coppiced to enable them to regenerate fresh 8

young growth. Where sufficient light can be created around the hawthorn bushes, additional plantings will be considered with the aim of producing compact clumps of potential use to small birds.

Woodland seeds have been scattered in bare areas at the back of the wood and as lighter areas are generated within the wood, this same mix will be scattered there. We await spring to assess the success or otherwise of this policy. Seeding and some opening of the canopy will continue in early 2018, along with planting of native bluebells grown from seed over the last two years.

The river continues to suffer from a lower than optimum average water level and fewer trout have been obvious this winter, but specialist fishers are presumably finding fish of some sort. A kingfisher has been a fairly regular visitor to some sites on the river through Melwood and Little Egrets turn up in all sorts of places from the mill to the roadside near Melbourn.

Jim Reid Melwood Conservation Group website: http://melwood.btck.co.uk.

If you are interested in joining the conservation work, please contact Jim Reid on (01763) 260231 or Bruce Huett on (01763) 232855.

Melwood Conservation Group AGM Wednesday 7th February 2018, 7.45pm Green Room, Meldreth Village Hall Refreshments plus a talk by Bruce Huett: “Melwood Goes Global!�

All welcome 9

Notes from a Small Garden As I write this, looking out at the garden during a snowfall so uncommon in Cambridgeshire, the trees look beautiful and the birds are thankfully feeding on the nuts and seeds on the hangers.

There is straw on the beds all around the house; we have the thatchers in at the moment, and I’m hoping that this and the snow will be protecting some of our plants!

December’s Veg Plus Club meeting was well attended. We inspected the veg patch, a big one, and were glad to know that the owners had a tiller, which has proved immensely useful in cutting out a lot of the deep digging. Carrots were in good supply, as was cavolo nero, radiccio and flat parsley. Their leeks, I’m happy to say, were not infected with either the allium leaf miner or the leek moth. You may have seen Seeds of Italy products on sale in various garden centres, including Phillimore’s; they seem to have produced very successful crops. I will certainly try them next year, particularly the mixed radiccio variety.

Once inside with coffee and mince pies to cheer us on, we had our usual useful discussions. Good foliage at this time can be a joy, and the variegated hollies, cotoneasters, the Cornus family and Portuguese laurel were all mentioned.

We also returned to the dreaded leek moth and the allium leaf miner.

What helps to control these pests, apparently, is not to plant them too early, practice crop rotation and cover them with fleece. I shall go back to growing the variety Musselburgh, which has always been safe in the past. Unfortunately the pests seem to be spreading disaster from the south of England and are now heading north! The same problems apply to other members of the onion family, alas.

Jobs in the garden for January:  Continue to divide herbaceous plants that have got too big  Keep composting beds  Cut old leaves off the hellebores  Prune apple and pear trees  Start forcing rhubarb, but not the plant that you forced last year 10

 Clean pots, tidy and clean the green house/polytunnel  Make covers for peach trees; this will protect from the frosts and

help to prevent peach leaf curl  Start thinking about pruning or cutting down gooseberries,

raspberries and currants.

The Veg Plus Club will not be meeting in January. Meetings will resume in February, so please check next month’s issue for details. We need some young enthusiastic gardeners to join in so please come along to one of our meetings this year.

In the meantime Happy New Year and good gardening from Jim and me.

Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

Otter Autopsy: Third Time Unlucky?

When we found the corpse of an otter on the A10 near the Melbourn by-pass bridge in January 2017, we sent it off, via the Environment Agency, to the Cardiff University Otter Project. This carries out autopsies on all the bodies passed to them and coordinates information designed to protect the wild otter population. The latter is clearly given legal protection but is nevertheless at risk from a number of things like illegal crayfish traps, which killed a number of young otters in Harston some years ago, and traffic.

As usual, we received a copy of the autopsy report on this, our “Meldreth” otter. Like the two otters previously found by us at the site, this one was a young female, which had never bred. It was described as a “sub adult”, although it weighed 5.9 kg. It was proved if proof were needed - that it had been hit by a vehicle in an “RTA”.

Although the death of any wild protected creature is to be regretted, the good news is that otters continue to explore the catchment of the River Mel, and although like its two predecessors the otter had never bred, we hope that one day they will be successful.

On a brighter note at the time of writing (early December) Little Egrets once again grace us in Meldreth with their presence along the River.

Terry Lynch 11

Meldreth Local History Group www.meldrethhistory.org.uk We are always grateful when someone drops in to see us with some photographs. The picture below was kindly brought to us at one of our December meetings by Iris Howell, whose son Glynn is one of those pictured in this group of Meldreth Primary School pupils in the 1960s.

Thanks to visitors to our Facebook page, where we recently featured the photograph in one of our “Throwback Thursday� posts, we have been able to identify most of the children: 1 Trevor Hopkins; 2 Kevin Thomas; 3 Martin Winter; 4 Roger Steadman; 5 Jimmy Roberts; 6 Peter Graver; 7 Richard Harding; 8 Glynn Howell; 9 Francis May; 10 Mary Sloper?; 11 Portia Askew; 12 Patricia Chinery; 13 Valerie Cox; 14 Julia Emery; 15 Karen Rodgers; 16 ?; 17 Wendy Holden If you have any pictures or information you would like to share, feel free to drop in and see us. The Group meets on the first and third Mondays of each month (excluding public holidays) from 9.30am to 11.30am in the Sheltered Housing Community Room in Elin Way. Kathryn Betts Webmaster, MLHG 12

Nigel Wigg Home Improvement Specialist • Exterior and interior home decorating

• Tiling • Carpentry • Refurbishment • Timber carport and veranda

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design and construction • General home repairs • Pruning / hedge and tree trimming • Professional service

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Gift vouchers and hair accessories available.

01763 260431

45 Whitecroft Road , Meldreth Tuesday & Thursday 9am - Late Monday &Wednesday closed Friday 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 3pm

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Richard Burns ELECTRICIAN For repairs, installation & advice please call

Tel: 01763 263 121 Mob: 07958 028 729 Email: sockets@tesco.net Part P approved Certified installer

Compliant to BS7671 Based in Meldreth

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

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

AT HOME FOOT CARE

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MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL 14

Elin Way ‘Community’ Coffee Break It is with great regret that, after over seven years of being in existence, the Elin Way Coffee Break mornings will be cancelled with immediate effect.

Over the past few months, it has become apparent that the support for the ‘Morning’ has dwindled significantly meaning that it is no longer financially viable. More particularly, it has become difficult to ask volunteers to give of their time and money by way of refreshments to cater for an increasingly small number of people.

Over the last seven years, it has been a pleasure to provide this service which has not only been enjoyed by members of the community but has provided financial support to both the Primary School, the Over 60’s and Good Companions. There will be one last disbursement of funds to these bodies in early 2018.

Finally, my sincere thanks to all those volunteers who have supported this event in the past.

Marion Long

Meldreth Baby and Toddler Group Meldreth Baby and Toddler Group is ideal for children aged 0-4 years and their parents and carers. We will be back in the Village Hall for the new school term, beginning on Wednesday 10th January.

We have a fun and nurturing environment where parents can have a chat and make friends and children can enjoy socialising and trying different crafts and activities.

We are open on Wednesdays during term time from 9.15am until 11.15am. The cost is £2 per family and includes a snack for the children and a hot drink and biscuits for the grown ups.

We hope to see many of you there with your little ones.

For further information, please contact Claire Thunder on 07908 902017.

Meldreth Baby and Toddler Group 15

Meldreth Preschool www.meldrethpreschool.com The preschool have enjoyed this term’s focus on families and have been exploring their own families as well as learning about each others’ as the weeks have passed. The ‘baby clinic’ proved incredibly popular with all the children and those with real life brothers and sisters have had a chance to talk about them.

We have also had another visit from Mandy, Tesco’s Community Champion, who helped us to explore the various ways that foods are grown and produced, plus a chance to try some of course. Our Christmas crafts saw plenty of glitter and we hope that everyone who visited the Christmas Tree Festival was impressed by the preschool’s decorating efforts.

We would like to thank everyone who came to our shopping evening in November – a lovely time was had by all and we raised over £600 which will be used to update our ICT equipment with some cameras and other resources which the children will love using. We rely on the support of our community to make the preschool a success, so it was lovely to see so many people coming out to help us raise funds.

Next term will see us focussing on Health and Well-Being, along with many other people who may be making that a theme of their New Year’s Resolutions, and the children will be learning about the different food groups and trying plenty of healthy snacks. They will also be having a go at different types of exercise. including yoga. which will encourage them to combine healthy eating with strength as well as rest and relaxation.

January will also see us supporting our local Home Start team with an afternoon tea party which will help them to support vulnerable children in the community.

We still have a few spaces available, so if you would like to come and have a look around and meet the team then we are always happy to help. Please telephone us on 07518 173653 or email manager@meldrethpreschool.com to make an appointment or learn more.

Meldreth Preschool

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Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Meldreth Children’s Wishes for 2018: This time last year, I asked the children in school to address the notion ‘If I could change the world….’ which elicited a range of interesting ideas. For the New Year I have asked the children to share their wishes for 2018 in different areas of their lives. Here are some of their responses.

Andrew Jones Deputy Headteacher

For me: I would like to fly, because then I can see the clouds. Sophie (6) To learn how to spell Chrsistmas. Rennie (6) I would like to move up colour in reading. Chloe V (6) To get a good score in my SATS and to get my dog’s hip fixed. Emma (10) I hope to win some Ballroom and Latin competitions and become the best dancer in the UK. Emma (11) I wish I could stay up late. William (7) I wish I could have the courage to ride a horse. Scarlett (7) For my family: For my brother to get full marks in his spelling test. Toby (6) To get my mum and dad flowers for their birthday as a present.

Emily (6) For my dad not to go away as much to dangerous places.

Annabelle (11) To go on holiday to Cornwall and go on a boat to Lands End. Phoebe (7) I wish my family would spend more time with me ...

To love each other ...

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For school: I wish we had a school pet. Ruby (10) A better library in a bigger space. Theo (10) I wish the school becomes rich and can afford all the best equipment.

Alex (10) A bigger playground and a bigger field. Henry (7) To make special school sweets. Rhys (9) More computers and beer for the teachers. Matthew (9) For the world To make sure homeless people have homes. Millie (6) Everyone to be happy. Harley (6) Donald Trump is not the president of America. Gracie (11) A better feminist atmosphere with equality for both men and women.

Phillippa (10) A giant, alive, friendly snowman who gives everyone money. Jude (7) For everyone to have enough food. Lottie (7) I wish that we could get a white Christmas all the time. Lily Rose (11) To stop Brexit and let kids vote. Cuan (11) I wish that the world would get bigger! Asher (7) A plastic gathering machine and no more petrol or diesel cars. Yunus (9) Get rid of terrorism. George (11) Vote me for prime minister. Luca (11) Anything else?

Don’t put rubbish in seas and rivers. Jake (6) I wish I could have a chick. Finn (10) To be able to do a front flip (not on a trampoline), and land it.

Isaac (11) I want to stay in this class forever. Bailey (7) For everything to be able to be recycled. Simon (7) Meldreth Primary School

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Meldreth Primary PTA The Meldreth Primary PTA would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in making our Christmas Decoration Day celebrations such a success. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the local businesses responsible for donating so many wonderful prizes for the raffle, which in turn raised much-needed funds to buy school books and resources for the pupils. Thank you to the parents, carers and families who visited our Decoration Day after-school event, and for becoming fully immersed in the Christmas spirit, enjoying a jar tombola, raffle, face paints and listening to the school choir, all washed down with a cup of coffee and mince pie. The estimated profit from the event is ÂŁ800 of which every penny will go towards school funds.

The Meldreth PTA would like to wish you a very Happy New Year.

Rebecca Bennett PTA Member

A section of the three-metre-square frieze that the Primary School children made with Mr Jones on Decoration Day in December 20

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Meldreth Manor School This month’s contribution is by Emma Nelson, the outgoing Care Manager at Aurora Meldreth Manor School.

In just a few weeks my time at Aurora Meldreth Manor will be over – and I still can’t quite believe I’m saying that! For just over 20 years I have had the privilege to support and care for some of the most remarkable children and young people anyone could meet.

And it truly has been a privilege.

The children at Meldreth lead incredibly challenging lives and yet their attitude towards life has never ceased to inspire and amaze me. Some of these remarkable individuals face a daily battle with their health and simple tasks for you and I require a herculean effort. And yet they never give in.

People ask me what I will miss most about working at Meldreth and the answer is simple – the people. Over the last two decades we have bonded as a team in ways it’s hard for people outside of our world to imagine. This place has a way of getting under your skin like nowhere else. We have been on some incredible highs, and lows, together and this has just made us stronger as a team.

It’s a sad fact that not all the children we are lucky enough to support at Meldreth reach adulthood, but that just makes us even more determined to make the most of every single second. When a parent comes to us and asks us to help care for their beloved child I know that they are trusting us with THE most precious thing in their life, and that is a responsibility none of us takes lightly. Over the years I have built wonderful relationships with parents and families, understanding their needs and how they would like us to support their child. And what I’ve learnt in my time, formerly as a support worker, and latterly as the care manager, is that trust and transparency is everything if you want to develop strong ties with families.

As I said we have been asked to care for the most precious person in the world to that parent, who is often already dealing with overwhelming feelings of sadness or even guilt, the very least we can do is be honest and open in all our dealings with them. That means celebrating the successes and the positives but also owning up when things don’t go as planned from time to time. These are individuals living with very complex conditions and things are not always straightforward. But in 22

my experience if you are open, honest and crucially provide a new way forward, families will respect and trust you for that.

When I think back to my first few weeks at Meldreth - and yes I was only supposed to stay for six months! - I remember writing to a friend and telling her I had no idea how I was going to communicate with young people who are often non-verbal, it seemed impossible to me.

What I couldn’t have known then is that when you live in this world day in day out you start to develop an instinct, almost a sixth sense, for what these children want. Their passion, desires and needs. And then you realise that these remarkable young people are communicating all the time, you just need to learn to speak their language, then there is so much joy to be had helping them to achieve their goals.

There are far too many moments from the last two decades to include in this short piece but I do want to remember a remarkable boy who lived with us five years ago. This young man was profoundly disabled, both his parents were deceased and only his brother was around to look out for him. And yet despite these challenges he brought so much joy to the school every day. We successfully nominated him to carry the Olympic torch in 2012 through the streets of Cambridge but tragically he passed away just a few months before his big day. His brother carried the torch in his place with his brother’s ashes and it was honestly one of the most profound things I have ever witnessed. You see, that’s what makes Meldreth and the people so special. The immense capacity to care and look out for each other.

I don’t think of myself as particularly special, but I do regard the time I have had here at this wonderful school as truly magical. I will miss it in ways that I can’t yet imagine, but I also know that the time has come for a fresh challenge and for someone else to take on this wonderful opportunity. Aurora Meldreth Manor school is like nowhere else and I am proud beyond words to have played my part in delivering transformational education and care to these young people.

I want to sign off by saying a huge thank you to everyone I have worked with over the years since I arrived from Liverpool not knowing what to expect! You have all made my time so special and I wish you all the very best for the future – I know you will go from strength to strength with this important work.

Emma Nelson Outgoing Care Manager Aurora Meldreth Manor School 23

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What’s On for Children and Families in January These events are taking place in the local area. For Meldreth events, please see page 7.

Saturday 6th January, 11.00am – 3.00pm Home Sweet Home, Cambridge Botanic Gardens CB2 1JE Drop-in family event. No booking required. Free for accompanied children. Adults pay admission price. For details ring (01223) 331875.

Saturday 6th January, 2.00pm – 4.00pm Family First Saturday, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Drop in and try activities and art-making on the theme of ‘writers’ block’.

Free. (and on first Saturday of each month, different themes).

Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th January, 10.15am – 11.45am Mucky Pups Winter Wildlife, Wicken Fen, Lode Lane, Wicken CB7 5XP Seasonal fun, crafts and adventure for under 5s. £4.75 each child. Parking £3, free for National Trust members. Book (01353) 720274.

Wrap up warmly!

Sunday 14th January, 1.00pm onwards Orienteering for All Wandlebury Country Park, Babraham, CB22 3AE Three different courses to suit all abilities. Walk or run individually (£5), in pairs or groups (£10). No need to book. Children must be accompanied.

Sunday 21st January, 11.00am and 2.00pm Family Jam – Percussion Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH Hands-on percussion workshop for the whole family led by Colin Currie, known as ‘the world’s most daring percussionist’. Ages 8 and over.

Children must be accompanied. £10. Book on 0845 548 7650.

Wednesday 31st January, 7.30pm – 8.30pm Wildlife on Walls St John the Evangelist, Church Hall, Cambridge CB2 8RN Talk by Brian Eversham, Chief Executive, BCN Wildlife Trust.

Find out about the mosses, lichens, ferns, molluscs, birds, reptiles and beetles that make use of walls. £2.50. For details ring 07738 243676.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 25

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch At the start of the New Year you may be thinking about a new job, but it always pays to be cautious. The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) has identified a number of reports where job seekers are being targeted by fraudsters trying to obtain personal and banking details from them, or requesting money to secure accommodation.

Individuals registering with job seeking websites or searching for jobs on The Student Room website are being contacted by bogus recruitment companies/businesses asking them to complete application and interview forms which request personal details and banking details, as well as copies of identity documents.

In some instances the applicant is invited along for interview, either in person or over the telephone, to make the process look as legitimate as possible. This is impacting on students and graduates looking for work both in the UK and overseas. Some job seekers, as well as divulging personal details, have paid money to the fraudsters in order to secure a bogus rental property alongside the job offer.

How to protect yourself:  Check emails and documents from the recruiter for poor spelling and grammar – this is often a sign that fraudsters are at work.  If visa fees are mentioned, ask the embassy representing the country where you believe you will be working how to obtain a visa and how much it costs. Check that the answers the potential employer or recruiter gave you are the same – if they’re not, it may be a sign of fraud.  Carry out thorough research to confirm that the organisation offering you the job actually exists. If it does exist, contact the organisation directly using contact details obtained through your own research or their website to confirm the job offer is genuine.

What to do if you’re a victim:  If you think your bank details have been compromised or if you believe you have been defrauded, contact your bank immediately.  Stop all communication with the ‘agency’ but make a note of their details and report it to Action Fraud.  Warn the operators of the job website you used that their site is being used by fraudsters.

26

You can report this or any other type of fraud to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

The Cambridge Police website for reporting a variety of issues is: www.cambs.police.uk/report.

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

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch

Meldreth Futures Group www.meldrethfutures.org.uk Meldreth Parish Council currently has grants available for projects that will be beneficial to our community.

Recently the Futures Group have recommended that the Parish Council donate funding for a film to be made of the River Mel, which is a rare chalk stream, plus stage scenery tracking for the Village Hall and a new goal post for the five-a-side pitch on the recreation ground. All these applications were approved at the December Parish Council meeting [see pages 39-40].

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

Meldreth Futures Group will review your application and will send it on to the Parish Council for their consideration.

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

Joan Gane on behalf of Meldreth Futures Group 27

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28

County Councillor’s Report 128 Bus Proposed Changes A contingent of Meldreth residents attended the Cam Vale Bus User Group in Bassingbourn on 4th December 2017 (meetings rotate between Meldreth and Bassingbourn) to consider proposals from the operator to make the service run closer to time and to offer Meldreth residents a slightly longer stay in Royston to do their errands. The 127 and 128 buses, which serve Meldreth and Bassingbourn, are part of the same council subsidy package for this area and are served by one bus that swaps its number back and forth.

The proposal is to run just one service, called the 127, through both villages and also Whaddon. Shepreth would be removed from the timetable due to lack of take-up there; probably easy access to Shepreth Station is a key factor.

Meanwhile, the subsidy for this and other buses runs out in September.

We’re working intensively at County Council on extending this and it looks like the subsidy should now run through to April 2019, pending the budget meeting in February.

Community Transport Service Connecting Bassingbourn and Meldreth Unfortunately, this lift service ceased to operate at the end of December due to lack of take-up. While 21 people had indicated interest, only four used the service. The two problems seem to be variable student schedules (the lifts run just once a day in and out of Meldreth, which is not always convenient) and cost (£3.55 per return journey) which on top of the rail fare adds up significantly and is not affordable to all. We have investigated group taxi fares for the same run, and the cost was almost double.

I’d like to thank everyone at Royston and District Community Transport for working so hard to put this scheme together, and who are now following up by helping to facilitate informal lifts to the station through the network of contacts they have developed. We do need more efficient ways of bringing people to Meldreth Station; it isn’t simple. The Department for Transport’s new very stringent licensing of community transport make it even harder to run anything like scheduled services, even when there is no scheduled bus service.

Ironically, the Department has been giving out grants for community transport operators to acquire minibuses, but without any operations or maintenance funding, and are now curbing the variety of ways in which 29

the minibuses can be used.

Changes to Transport Authority With the advent of the Mayor and Combined Authority, Cambridgeshire County Council is no longer the Transport Authority.

We are now in a period of transition whereby CCC is carrying out this function on behalf of the Mayor. This includes the bus and community transport subsidy budget, for which we argue the case every year, and also maintenance of the highway network. We’ll be hearing more about this in due course.

Community Sweeper Pilot The fact that the County and District Councils cut verges, clear drains and sweep paths and streets so rarely has given rise to a new pilot project whereby volunteers are trained to drive the South Cambs Sweeper vehicle. Councillor Jose Hales in Melbourn and I have been asked to set this up, to operate initially in Melbourn and the A10 pedestrian/cycle path. I think it’s fair to say that we both initially resisted for reasons you may find obvious. After all, we are council tax payers and the council provides public services. But we decided to be pragmatic and test the waters.

We now have a group of volunteers, including two from Royston who support the cycle campaign, who are willing to give up their time. This will involve two full days of training (health and safety, and vehicle operation), and then we as councillors will help coordinate the use of the vehicle. I’ll be concentrating on the A10 path, for which a vegetation maintenance grant has already been negotiated with a local business, but which would benefit greatly from additional sweeping. If the pilot is successful it can be rolled out.

New part-time paid Community Rail Partnership Post This administrative and coordinating role will be advertised in the January edition of Meldreth Matters [see page 61]. As I reported to you earlier, legal and financial accountability for the Community Rail Partnership (CRP) will now be held by an overseeing Community Interest Company (CIC), the terms of reference for which define as its purpose ‘supporting transport and access’ for the area served by Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Stations. Three directors for the CIC are now in place, from Melbourn, Shepreth and Foxton. There are many opportunities for the CRP to support community development, especially in conjunction with local schools and businesses, and we 30

hope this will offer the necessary framework to expand our work.

Greater Cambridge Partnership and A10 Pedestrian/Cycle Link to Royston With very strong support from local business and Melbourn Village College students, the Greater Cambridge Partnership has now asked officers to provide a business case for a pedestrian/cycle link connecting Meldreth and Melbourn to Royston along an A10 off-road path and bridge at the A505; this will be considered at meetings in January and February. Pledges of financial support for the project have been made

by Royston Town Council, Herts CC, AstraZeneca and several other businesses at Melbourn Science Park and Royston. The link, less than two miles long, would open up cheap travel for many users, including low-wage workers on either side of the border, and people going about the ordinary business of daily life. This has the support of cross-border councillors, MPs and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Local Enterprise Partnership, whose remit includes Royston.

Melbourn Village College Ofsted Inspection I should have reported last month that MVC’s Ofsted inspection in September resulted in a very positive report, officially ‘Good’ with elements of ‘Outstanding’. Intake is rising steadily and the college is really thriving. The after-school enrichment programme and the introduction of Modern Chinese Language for all incoming students, now in its second year, were both noted as contributing to a very positive learning environment.

‘Teach in Cambridgeshire’ Teach in Cambridgeshire will be holding a Secondary Recruitment Event on 11th January from 5.00-7.00pm, at St Peter’s School, Huntingdon. The event is designed for secondary trainees to network with secondary schools in Cambridgeshire regarding possible posts and upcoming positions. There will also be the opportunity for delegates to opt for mock interviews to enhance their application experience. This event has been a great success in the past with many trainees being offered interviews/positions at the event itself.

‘Be a Councillor?’

Four years ago I organised a drop-in event at Meldreth Village Hall, ahead of District and Parish Council elections, called ‘Be a Councillor?’

This was aimed at encouraging anyone who might be thinking of becoming a councillor to come along and talk to people currently 31

carrying out the role. I invited parish councillors from other parishes within my county division to come along too, and it was the first time that I had the opportunity to introduce parish councillors from neighbouring villages to one another.

I am arranging a similar event for this year and this will be held on Saturday 3rd February from 3.00-5.00pm in the Sheltered Housing Community Room in Elin Way. All welcome. Further details will be provided in the February issue of Meldreth Matters.

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

Do You support a Walk/Cycle Link Between Royston and Melbourn/Meldreth?

The A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign has been working very hard to help coordinate support for this project. The bridge feasibility study has been published at www.a10corridorcycle.com and the overall project is considered ‘shovel ready’ – it could be built very quickly.

Hertfordshire County Council has made a significant financial commitment to maintain the bridge over its lifetime.

If you would like to know more, please come along to the campaign’s next meeting on Wednesday 31st January, at 7.00pm for 7.30-9.00pm at Sartorius Stedim, Royston Industrial Estate.

This is a wonderful local business venue that exemplifies all the reasons why the link would be so beneficial to people who may live in South Cambridgeshire villages and commute to Royston, or vice versa. And we always finish on time!

If you’d like to receive a copy of the agenda or updates on the project, please text or email me – thank you.

Susan van de Ven 07905 325574 Susanvandeven5@gmail.com contacta10cycle@gmail.com 32

Volunteering Opportunities

33

Meldreth Village Di Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 8.00-9.00pm Strutology

Thur

2.00pm Good 6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm 7.30pm Paris

Start of Sc 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00-7.00 Brownies

7.30pm WI

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 8.00-9.00pm Strutology 8.00pm Prayer Group

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.40-11.30am Library

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts

6.00-7.00 Brownies

7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

8.00-9.00pm Strutology 9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

7.00-10.00pm Crafters 8.00-9.00pm Strutology

7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group

5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts

6.00-7.00 Brownies

7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00-10.00pm Crafters 8.00-9.00pm Strutology

Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 ‘Coffee Break’ mornings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Brownie room. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the lay-by oppos 34

iary - January 2018

sday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday 9.45am Family Communion

d Companions m Fitness

5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

m T. Tennis h Council

chool Term 8.00am Holy Communion

m Fitness

5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ Copy deadline for February issue

9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School

m Fitness

m Table

m Fitness

5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

7.00pm Meldreth Tennis Club Quiz

7.00pm FOHT Supper, Holy Trinity

m Table

8.00am Holy Communion 3.30-5.30pm Messy Church, Holy Trinity 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

The copy deadline for the February issue of Meldreth Matters is Friday 12th January To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow us on Issuu: https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters

North End. Cam Valley Crafters, Good Companions, Meldreth Local History Group and the es, Messy Church & Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group meet in the Holy Trinity meeting ite Holy Trinity Church. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.

35

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Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Parish Council held on Thursday 7th December 2017 in the Green Room of Meldreth Village Hall.

Present: Councillor R Goddin - Chairman, Councillor J Fallon, Councillor R James, Councillor Keena, Councillor C A Land, Councillor D Lee, Councillor R A Searles and Councillor A Young In attendance: J Damant (Clerk); Councillor S van de Ven (CCC), Councillor P Hart (SCDC) Apologies for absence: Councillor N Pellatt – Vice Chairman Public participation: There were five members of the public in attendance but no questions were raised.

Report from District Councillor (see pages 42-43) Councillor Hart reported that the SCDC Local Development Plan will now probably be in place by late spring.

Councillor Hart would like to have an item on the agenda for a Youth Parish Council.

Report from County Councillor (see pages 29-32) Additional item: Four years ago an event was organised by Councillor van de Ven, called 'Be a Councillor', and she asked if it would be possible to have another event as the elections for both District and Parish Councillors will occur in May 2018. The event would hopefully include neighbouring parishes, all of whom will be having elections.

Councillor Hart reported that the Local Government Association may be able to help with funding. Councillor Searles commented that February would be a good time to hold this event. [The event will be held on Saturday 3rd February from 3.00-5.00pm in the Sheltered Housing Community Room in Elin Way. See pages 31-32.]

Office IT Computer System It was agreed to use a consultant to oversee the installation of new computer software for an initial cost of £90, with an additional charge for training the Clerk at £30 an hour. All data will be transferred and email addresses will remain the same. The proposed new website will be looked at in January.

37

Meldreth Futures Working Group The working group had looked at applications from RSPB, MADS, Gallery Writers and a proposal from the working group for a 5-aside football post.

The working group recommend that the scenery rack which MADS have requested be handed over to either the Parish Council or the Village Hall.

See pages 39-40 for further details.

Mettle Hill Working Group Further companies had been contacted regarding the possibility of Park Homes and two meetings arranged for January 2018. Tenders have been put out for clearance of the Mettle Hill site and the Parish Council is awaiting a final quotation. Agenda item for January.

Tenders for asbestos survey: all demolition companies have requested that an asbestos survey be completed prior to any demolition works starting. There have been two responses. It was proposed by Councillor Searles to accept ACI Environmental for ÂŁ395 + vat, seconded by Councillor Goddin, all agreed.

Tennis Club Working Group The protective barrier fencing in the car park, which runs in front of the tennis courts and Village Hall, has been completed.

S106 application with regards to Meldreth Primary School The proposed developers of the 160 houses in Cambridge Road in Melbourn have agreed to contribute ÂŁ250k for transport of children from Melbourn to Meldreth Primary School, however this has not yet been finalised. How this will impact on Meldreth is not yet known as the development in Melbourn was not part of any consideration regarding any larger developments that may be happening in Meldreth.

Councillor van de Ven explained that schools are not built for the sole use of the community children but for a catchment area. However, the transport arrangement as they are, are not realistic and do not address the issues raised.

Councillor Hart agreed to contact Mr James Fisher (SCDC) to enquire what is happening and how it may impact on Meldreth.

Pavilion Construction Tenders for decorating to be circulated, decision to be made in January.

A locked cabinet is now in place which will hold the CCTV equipment, which can now be installed.

38

Church Wall It was agreed that a working party would be beneficial in looking into the matter. Councillor James and the Clerk will represent the Parish Council, other members to come from the Church. Clerk to contact the vicar for the names of two church representatives.

Playground All play equipment appears to be in good working order. The mat surfacing at the swings needs attention. Clerk has one quote and will arrange for a further two.

Proposed Closure of the Railway Crossing on Footpath 10 Councillor James reported that the public enquiry has started. The footpath in Meldreth was due for discussion on Tuesday 12th December.

Defibrillators Defibrillators have been purchased and we are awaiting delivery. There are simulators for sale that would help with training. The simulators cost £295 + vat and £10.00 postage. It was agreed to purchase one.

Correspondence and Clerk's Report Litter bin for the stocks area has been received and is waiting to be erected.

A new replacement dog bin for the recreation ground has been received.

Maintenance projects in the pavilion and the burial ground gate have been completed. There is now a combination lock on the burial ground gate. This does not stop residents but does not allow vehicles onto the burial ground without Parish Council authority.

Almshouses Trustees The Almshouses Trustees have found a new prospective Trustee Mr Richard Remnant, to represent the Parish Council. It was agreed that Mr Remnant be appointed as the Parish Council representative. Clerk to notify the Trustees.

Community Benefit Applications  Gallery Writers application for £600.00 to make a film about the River Mel with accompanying poems. The River Mel is one of a very few natural chalk streams in the country. It was agreed to support the request.  RSPB Fowlmere application for £750.00 to replace a wooden cabin. This application was discussed further and it was agreed 39

to refuse the application as it does not have a direct benefit on the community of Meldreth.  MADS application for £500.00 for a new scenery tracking system. It was agreed to support this request. The Village Hall Trustees have given their consent for this piece of equipment.

After further discussion it was agreed that the Village Hall should have ownership of this piece of equipment. Parish Council will purchase the equipment and then donate it to the Village Hall so they can include on their insurance.  Request for a 5-a-side football post costing £259 to match the one already in situ. It was agreed to support the request for one post.

The one already in situ is only a couple of years old. Clerk will arrange and monies for this will be taken from the S106 budget.

Indemnity Document S106 funds for £3104.38 for open space and £513.04 for community space have arrived for a development in Chiswick End. Mary Course Award and Cambridge Building Society Councillor Searles reported that he had looked into what the best options for the Parish Council would be for this account. At the moment the fund owes the Parish Council £180.00 to pay back three years of contributions given to the Primary School for the Mary Course Award competition. It was agreed to keep the donation at £60.00 and to keep it as a five-year fixed bond at 1.85%, drawing off capital as interest rates are low.

South Cambridgeshire Parliamentary Boundary Changes A twelve-week consultation by the Boundary Commission for England was held last year. Now a third phase, with Meldreth and Shepreth being added to the list to join East Hertfordshire, is being discussed.

This would be known as the Letchworth and Royston parliamentary constituency. Response from the Parish Council, objecting to the proposed changes, was agreed to be submitted before the 11th December 2017 deadline.

Councillors' Reports  Councillor Goddin reported that he had been approached by a concerned resident with regards to the lack of adequate lighting along North End. Councillor Goddin reported that this is being looked into by the Parish Council.

40

 Councillor Young enquired if anyone knew of a campaign on road/cycle safety. There have been suggestions that high visibility jackets were being given away.  Councillor Keena reported that the street lights at Fenny Lane/ Burtons are not working again. Councillor Keena had reported to Highways that some of the lights were not working. He was informed that two of these lights have been removed. However, the lights remaining are now not working.  Councillor Land enquired if the finger posts at the Stocks were due to be repaired. This is in hand. Councillor Land also asked if the Clerk could investigate installing bollards at the stocks.

There being no further business the Chairman closed the meeting at 9.20pm. The next meeting will be held on 4th January at 7.30pm in the Green Room of the Village Hall.

Meldreth Parish Council The official Minutes of Meldreth Parish Council are those signed in Public Meetings by the Chairman. They are available for public inspection from the Clerk and can also be accessed on the Parish Council website at www.meldreth-pc.org.uk or on the Parish Council notice boards, opposite the One Stop Shop and at the corner of Elin Way and Whitecroft Road.

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

Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm By appointment at other times Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928 Mrs C J Fallon

(01763) 262822

parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk joan.fallon@btinternet.com

Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061

goddin@btinternet.com

Dr R James

(01763) 261085

roger@rogerjames.net

Mr A Keena

(01763) 260267

alankeena@aol.com

Mr C A Land

(01763) 261004

c.land963@btinternet.com

Mr D Lee

(01763) 261571

david@oakrits.plus.com

Mr Nigel Pellatt (Vice Ch) (01763) 262444

nppellatt@btconnect.com

Mr R A Searles

(01763) 260435

robert.searles@btinternet.com

Mr A Young

(01763) 263484

andrewmpc@gmail.com

41

District Councillor’s Report Paper Caddies From Monday 11th December 2017, residents no longer need to use their plastic caddies to recycle paper. Instead, waste paper should be placed directly into the blue bin. Residents are free to keep their caddies and use them however they wish. You can find further details about this change at: https://www.scambs.gov.uk/paper-recyclingchanges.

Local Plan It looks very much as if the six week public consultation on the Inspector’s modifications will not now take place until after Christmas.

Depending upon how soon after Christmas it starts, there is every possibility that any resultant approved Plan, assuming there are no modifications of the modifications following the consultation, will not get the required seal of Full Council approval (assuming it passes the vote) until after the local elections in May as purdah will start in the third week in March.

All this means that we are still unable to demonstrate a five year housing land supply, and applications and appeals for an indefinite time being will be able to take this very persuasive factor into consideration.

Affordable Housing Quota Some time ago, South Cambridgeshire District Council and a few other councils negotiated a dispensation to the government’s imposition of planning guidelines exempting housing developments of more than two and less than eleven dwellings (or 1,000 sq. ft.) from needing to provide a 40% affordable element. The Local Plan Inspector has looked at this and has given the definite indication that this dispensation needs to be revoked on the grounds that it is discouraging housing delivery of small developments by small building firms. The Council anticipates that planning permissions in this category which have not yet been implemented, will be sought to be renewed without any requirement for a 40% affordable element, and has calculated that 350 affordable dwellings in South Cambridgeshire will be lost to this policy reversal over the life of the Local Plan until 2031.

Combined Authority The Mayor James Palmer has stepped in to take over the Local Enterprise Partnership, ostensibly because the government has been looking into its finances. It is open to question whether such a step is 42

within the remit handed to the Mayor, and it is certain that the geographical area covered by the LEP is not the same as the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough authority.

The Mayor who campaigned to provide a light rail solution to solve Cambridge’s congestion, has now backtracked and is instead promoting a hybrid bus/tram which will be expensive - £1.7 billion - and although it will be routed via tunnels through the city centre, it will share roads with other traffic in the rest of Cambridge.

Youth Council Over the last few weeks I have had the pleasure of meeting other councillors from around the country and have been particularly inspired by one young councillor who cut his public service teeth participating in a local youth council and who has gone on at the age of 23 to be both a District and County Councillor. I am pleased to report that Meldreth Parish Council agrees with me that political engagement and empowerment is too low among the younger members of our community. Next month’s Parish Council agenda will include an item on setting up a youth council, perhaps taking as its geographical remit the new district ward boundary, with a view to it feeding back its ideas and recommendations to its constituent parish councils. I am taking the same idea to Shepreth, Whaddon and Melbourn Parish Councils in the next couple of months.

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

Monthly Drop-in Councillor Advice Surgery Our next drop-in surgery will be at the Melbourn Hub on Monday 8th January from 3.00-4.00pm.

Susan will also be at The Limes Community Room, High Street Bassingbourn, next to Hattie’s café and the village shop, on Monday15th January from 3.00-4.00pm.

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

Philippa Hart, District Councillor philippajhart@btinternet.com, (01763) 261255 Susan van de Ven, County Councillor susanvandeven5@gmail.com, 07905 325574 43

News From Heidi Allen www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk As we build up to the big day, I was excited to be invited to Cambourne to switch on their Christmas lights. This had a rather unexpected twist as I was sawn in half on stage! I’m pleased to report that both parts of me were put back together in time for me to make it to the Fen Drayton “Call my wine bluff” fundraiser later that evening. Well done to the organisers of both events and a special mention to the surgeon on standby!

Staying with Cambourne, I continue to pay very close attention to the developing proposals for the Cambourne to Cambridge busway and park and ride. The Greater Cambridgeshire Partnership’s (GCP) consultation on the proposed sites for the park and ride and busway routes is now live. The consultation closes on the 29th January 2018, so please do feed in your views herehttps:// www.greatercambridge.org.uk/transport/transport-projects/cambourneto-cambridge/cambourne-to-cambridge-consultation-2017/18. As part of my promise to listen to residents, I went along to the GCP’s roadshow in Coton, so I could gauge residents’ views on the latest options first hand. This is a really important consultation as the outcome will shape how we deal with congestion issues and improve the transport links so desperately missing in Cambourne.

On the 10th/11th/12th November, I joined commemoration services at the Cambridge American Cemetery in Coton, in Sawston and my home village of Elsworth. These services are such an important date in the calendar as we came together to recognise the service of our Armed Forces past and present. We must never forget.

Last month’s Budget contained big news for our local area with a number of key measures:  A new East West Rail company will be set up to deliver a rail link between Oxford and Cambridge.  Addenbrooke's station - the Government committed £5 million to develop our proposals for a station on the Biomedical campus.  Construction will begin on key elements of the Oxford to Cambridge road expressway.  £1.7 billion will go towards improving transport for English cities with our Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority receiving £74 million.

44

South Cambridgeshire is a great place to live and work and I will continue to keep a very sharp focus on all the local infrastructure improvements needed to ensure we stay that way. I’m also in conversation with Highways England, Network Rail and our local authorities regarding the Foxton crossing and Girton Interchange. I have slowly but surely pushed these long overdue projects up the agenda and will keep you posted. Initial meetings are promising!

It is always such a pleasure to visit local schools and I continue on my mission to get round all sixty six of them! I have in the last few weeks opened the new library at Bellbird Primary in Sawston and visited the Perse Upper School in Cambridge. Students remain a source of the most difficult questions! I was also pleased to visit Orwell Brownies and Melbourn Rainbows during Parliament week: two budding bunches of Parliamentarians without a doubt!

On 1st December, I was pleased to be invited to support FareShare and Tesco at their Christmas food collection at the Bar Hill store. Local people were so generous with their donations of food. Tesco also add an additional 20% as well as providing FareShare with food from their distribution centres. To ensure this good food does not go to waste, Fareshare then distribute it to organisations such as hostels, children’s breakfast clubs and meals for older people. If you are involved in a group who could benefit from such a donation, or are a food manufacturer looking to donate your “waste”, please do get in touch with Michael Barrett, our local contact on (01473) 717676 or fseastanglia@fareshare.org.uk.

My next surgery will be on 6th January 2018 from 10.00am-12noon at the David Rayner Centre, Scotsdales Garden Centre, 120 Cambridge Rd, Great Shelford, CB22 5JT. These are drop-in surgeries with no appointment necessary. Details of all the upcoming surgeries can be found on my website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk. You’ll also find further information about my work and news stories there. To contact me, please email heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk.

You can also telephone my Westminster office on 020 7219 5091 about national issues or my constituency office on (01223) 830037 to raise local concerns.

All that remains is to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Cheers!

Heidi Allen, MP 45

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Maycroft Care Home Of note in the past few weeks at Maycroft, has been the entertainment provided by singing star Kimberly Spurrier, comprising easy listening, bright and breezy big band music and songs of the sixties and seventies, such as Sinatra’s, "Fly me to the moon" and "You make me feel so young". Lovely memories for all the residents.

As we entered autumn, and the relatively mild months of October and November, the colours of the trees in the Maycroft gardens were beautiful to see. Squirrels were still scurrying around, frantically grasping conkers in their really quite small mouths (difficult to imagine quite how), and digging frantically before running off again for more.

Two or three dreys were visible last winter in surrounding trees.

December brought with it some bitterly cold weather, during which the village was - briefly - covered in snow!

So here we are into the new year, just the time to recall the year gone by at Maycroft and to mention our plans. Our events and daily activities in 2017, which were detailed in Meldreth Matters, described the pleasure and entertainment of our residents and their relatives and friends, and aspects of our outreach to you, the community in which we live. Of note were our visits to the nearer National Trust properties, such as Wimpole and Anglesey Abbey, and jaunts by coach into the surrounding villages, made possible via the excellent service given by the staff of Royston Community Transport. Our delightful visit to Wimpole at lambing time is still an item of conversation and a repeat visit is anticipated in 2018. In August we had our sponsored walk to raise funds for Alzheimer Research, in which many residents and staff took part (see photograph). We were able to present a cheque for ÂŁ1601 to a representative of Alzheimer Research UK; many will have seen a photograph of the presentation in the Royston Crow.

We look forward to seeing you in 2018. We at Maycroft deeply appreciate our contact with you. We thank you from our hearts. Do come and see us; all are welcome. May we wish you all a very happy 2018.

Carol and Ray 47

Melbourn and District Photographic Club http://melbournphotoclub.com We resume our meetings on 16th January after a two-week Christmas recess. This month’s programme is as follows: 16th Panel Print Competition Judge: David Woods 20th Cambridge Digital Inter-Club Competition at Whittlesford 23rd Inter-Club Battle Judge: Ron Tear

–

Melbourn

v

Gamlingay

at

Foxton.

30th New Horizons. Lecture with prints by Naomi Saul

Blue-tailed Damselflies in Tandem by Ian Tulloch

Meetings are held weekly from 7.30 - 9.30pm on Tuesdays at Foxton Village Hall from September to April.

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

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

Peter North Secretary 48

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49

Good Companions I’m unable to report on our Christmas party on 14th December, as it took place after the copy deadline for this magazine!

However, on behalf of myself and all our members, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Marion and Robert Long for their help and support to Good Companions over the years.

I would also like to say a heartfelt thanks to them both for all of their hard work in organising the monthly coffee morning at Elin Way Community Centre, son enjoyed by many over the years.

Good Companions

Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group Our November meeting was held in Meldreth when the Reverend Mary Price led us on an Advent reflection.

The reflection was based around the “Great O” Antiphons which are used in the last week of Advent. These can be traced back to the eighth century in their Latin form and were translated into other languages; among them German and English. The Antiphons are used before and after the Magnificat and they inspired the hymn “O come O come Emmanuel”. The tune is probably much later and is believed to be based on a French processional tune from the 15th century.

Through the evening members read bible quotes and there was a period for reflection of a more personal nature when we were given sheets and encouraged to write down what we were hoping for this Advent. We brought our private reflections away with us so they may yet prove to be a point of focus for us through Advent. Mary had brought a recording of the hymn with her which we listened to. Then she read a sonnet written by Malcolm Guite, a Cambridgeshire Vicar. We finished the reflection by reading together The Magnificat with The Antiphon.

Anne Harrison gave a vote of thanks to Mary and presented her with a plant on behalf of the Women’s Group.

50

Our AGM will be held on 23rd January in All Saints Community Hall and begins at the usual time of 7.45pm. We will conduct the formal business of receiving reports, accounts and electing committee members.

We will also select the charity which we will support in 2018 so please come with suggestions. After the formal business we will have a bring and share supper and start off the charity fundraising with a raffle.

Please contact me to let me know what food you plan to bring.

Pat Smith

Joint Parish Prayer Group The Prayer Group will be meeting on Tuesday 16th January at 8.00pm at 85 North End, Meldreth. We are a very small group but feel that it is important to keep together for this time of meditation and prayer.

Prayer requests are always welcomed and are treated in strict confidence. If you would like to know more about this group, please call me on (01763) 261365.

Marion Long

Meldreth WI There was lots of laughter and lots of delicious food at our Christmas party. While eating, we were entertained with soft music and later we were able to join in singing both modern and Christmas songs. There were also a few hilarious games thrown in for good measure!

Next month Sarah Harrison will be joining us to give us a light hearted look at her life as a novelist. Why not come along and join us at 7.30pm on 11th January in Meldreth Village Hall.

Kathleen Thompson 51

Meldreth Tennis Club www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub Meldreth Tennis Club is now able to offer public booking of Court One of the brand new courts next to Meldreth recreation ground. The staff of the British Queen have kindly offered to help the Club manage the bookings for non members.

Booking Rules  Court One can be booked in person only at the British Queen, High St Meldreth up to one week in advance for a minimum of one hour, maximum of two hours. N.B. Telephone bookings are not allowed.  The cost of court hire is £5 per hour and must be paid at the time of booking. No refunds will be given for unused time.  Only adults and children over 13 may book the courts.  No unsupervised children are allowed on the courts.  Once you have booked and paid for your session you will be issued with the padlock code  Users of the courts do so at their own risk.  Please ensure that you have secured and locked the gate after your session and scrambled the padlock code.

Please see the club website www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/ meldrethtennisclub for all the latest club news and information.

Christine Knight Committee Member

MELDRETH PLANT HIRE TEL: 01763 262738 DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WHACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE. WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK 52

Little Hands Nursery School The Moor, Melbourn

Little Hands is a Private Nursery School specialising in quality education for the under fives and offers: Flexible hourly booking - open 08.30 to 16.30 Term time bookings with optional holiday club Bumble Bee room for children 12 – 24 months Ladybird room for 2 year olds Butterfly room for children 3-5 years With optional “ready for school sessions” All sessions have a high staff to child ratio and are available for eligible funded 2 year olds and all funded 3/4 year olds with no extra charges Categorised as “Outstanding” by Ofsted

For further information contact Anne McCrossen: 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk

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53

Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk Flanders and Swann Tribute Peter Chapman and Mike O'Neill presented a nostalgic evening of comic songs and monologues performed by Flanders and Swann between 1956 and 1967, which encouraged audience participation. In addition there were songs by their contemporaries.

Peter and Mike started with "The Gas Man Cometh� and included the "Gnu Song", "Hippopotamus Song", "Madeira M'Dear" and an excellent "Albert and the Lion".

With a slight dig at the congregation, they performed Richard Stilgoe's "Mrs Beamish" - "Don't you dare shake hands with me, or offer signs of peace", Tom Lehrer's Boy Scout song, "Be Prepared" and Allan Sherman's "Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah". A nostalgic evening, finishing with a social.

Christmas Tree Festival Having exhibited a tree at every festival over the past fourteen years, the committee decorated this year’s tree to show the events we hold to raise funds in support of preserving the fabric of the church.

Forthcoming Events: 27th January 2018 - Annual Supper See poster on following page.

February/March 2018 We are pursuing two quite different evenings in the New Year, a talk about the Holocaust by Eva Clarke who was born in an Austrian concentration camp in 1945 and a swing band playing the music of Glen Miller and the 1940s. As yet, dates have not been finalised but more details will appear in the February issue.

John Price 54

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Christmas Tree Festival We would like to thank everyone who made a contribution to the Christmas Tree festival this year. Whether this was providing the beautifully decorated trees, making crafts for the craft stall, produce for the produce stall or volunteering in any way over the weekend - we are indebted to you all.

Thank you also to those who attended the event which has become a fixture on Meldreth’s annual calendar of events.

The Christmas Tree Festival Committee

If you came to the Christmas Tree Festival you will have noticed the stall full of home-made cakes and sweet treats, jams, jellies, chutneys, marmalade and mincemeat. We had a wonderful display thanks to the generosity of all of you who took the trouble to make lovely things for us. Thanks to all those who came to buy, we sold out on Sunday afternoon!

A big thank you to all those who donated so generously in so many ways.

Carol Osborne

Meldreth Recipe Book A Little Book of Fruit Recipes from the people of Meldreth and Melbourn is on sale in aid of church funds.

It costs ÂŁ5 and contains about 40 ideas on how to use up local apples, pears, plums and fruits from further afield in savoury and sweet dishes, cakes and preserves.

It is an ideal present that is a little different.

For your copy, please telephone me on (01763) 262848 or email hilaryjcrawforth@btopenworld.com.

Hilary Crawforth 56

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Other vacancies also available

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

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

57

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

Until Sunday 28th January, daily 11.00am to 4.00pm ‘Winter 1964 – A Gentleman’s Way of Life’ Anglesey Abbey, Quy Road, Lode, Cambridgeshire CB25 9EJ Step back in time to recreate winter in Lord Fairhaven’s household and learn about all the work that went into entertaining guests at his weekly shooting parties. Free, but normal admission charges apply to nonNational Trust members. Further details at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Monday 1st January, 11.00am to 1.00pm New Year’s Day Walk Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Cambridgeshire SG8 0BW Start the New Year with a refreshing walk around Wimpole’s beautiful parkland. Led by a member of the estate’s outdoor team. Free but normal admission charges for non-NT members. Wrap up well and meet outside stable block. See: www.nationaltrust.org/events.

Friday 5th January to Friday 16th February, usual opening times ‘Good Earth’ Art Exhibition, The Plough, Shepreth SG8 6PP Sue Sanders, landscape painter and Bill Kohler, sculptor and ceramicist exhibit their work. Preview: Friday 5th January 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Thursday 11th January, 10.15am (tour starts 10.30am) Museum of Cambridge (previously Cambridge Folk Museum) 2/3 Castle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AQ Take an intriguing guided tour around one of the UK’s oldest museums of social history. Tickets £15, in aid of Sick Children’s Trust. To book call (01799) 541180.

Thursday 11th January, 8.00pm to 10.00pm Cambridge Guitar Club St James Centre, Wulfstan Way, Cambridge CB1 8QJ Bring you own classical, acoustic or flamenco guitar and have fun playing – or you’re welcome to come along and listen. Entrance £4 (concessions £1). Contact (01223) 565552.

Saturday January 13th, 9.00am to 11.00am Fowlmere Farmers’ Market, Fowlmere Village Hall SG8 7RY Local foods, crafts and home-made refreshments. Free parking.

58

Wednesday 17th to Saturday 20th January, at various times 22nd Cambridge Winter Ale Festival University Social Club, Mill Lane, Cambridge CB2 1RX CAMRA event featuring traditional winter beers and locally-produced ciders. Further information at: www.cambridgebeerfestival.com.

Saturday 20th January, 8.30am Men’s Breakfast Meeting, Village Hall, Foxton CB22 6RN The speaker will be local Methodist Minister Rev. Charity Nzegwu who will give her New Year message. Contact Tony Garrick (01223) 510201 garrick.tony@gmail.com or Mark Howard (01223) 503377 mark-howard@uwclub.net to reserve your place. All are welcome.

Saturday 20th January, 1.00pm to 4.00pm Winter Tree Identification Workshop Wandlebury Country Park, Babraham, Cambridge CB22 3AE Learn how to identify our common native trees and enjoy a stroll around the park putting this into practice. Adults only, booking essential: www.cambridgeppf.org; or call (01223) 243830.

Saturday 20th January, 3.00pm to 5.00pm Winter Wildlife Walk at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, Lode Lane, Wicken, Ely CB7 5XP Seasonal highlights include hen harriers coming in to roost over the fen at sunset. Led by a ranger. Free but normal admission charges apply to non-NT members. Booking essential on 0344 249 1895.

Friday 26th January, 7.30pm to 9.00pm Trinity College Music Society Nachtmusik Concert Trinity College Chapel, Trinity Street, Cambridge CB2 1TQ Featuring The Cantabrigians and including music by Elgar, Downes, Handel, Purcell and Verdi. Tickets on the door; £8 (£5 concessions).

Saturday 27th January, 6.45 pm (doors open) to 11.00pm Sound of Music at Ely Cathedral, Cambridgeshire CB7 4DL Join the regular cathedral choir in nuns’ habits (why not wear one, too?) for screening of 1965 Julie Andrews classic in sing-along version.

Sing your heart out with friends & family! Tickets £15 (01376) 564495.

Compiled by John Crawforth 59

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Meals service: nutritious, hot lunchtime meal delivered to you.

Housekeeping: we do those jobs which you can no longer manage, from cleaning and ironing, to bed changing and shopping.

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

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Job Advertisement Project Officer (Community Rail Partnership) Fixed Term 2 Year (with possibility of extension) 11 Hours per Week £23,711 - £28,329 p.a. – Grade 4 (Pro Rata) We are seeking to recruit a Project Officer to provide specialist project support for the Sustainable Communities and Partnerships Team. The post holder will work alongside parish, district and county councils, stakeholders and other colleagues to support rail-related and community development activity in the South West area (villages between Royston and Cambridge).

The post holder will undertake operational and project support activities, get involved in the community, set up local projects and initiatives with schools, businesses and community groups, while also working to grow and develop the Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Community Rail Partnership.

You will be a creative people person. A good communicator, who easily establishes rapport with others. You will have the ability to use your own initiative and judgement to determine the most appropriate course of action.

Rail industry training will be provided on-the-job, along with site visits to other community rail partnerships to understand how they work, and to learn best practice.

Some evening and weekend work will be required. Focus will be on villages in the vicinity of Meldreth, Shepreth, Foxton and Melbourn and work will mainly be based in these areas day to day.

For an informal discussion about this post please contact Jay Clarke, Development Officer, Sustainable Communities and Partnerships Team on 01954 713209.

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61

Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address

Detail

Parish Council Recommend

30 Chiswick End S/4058/17/OL

Outline planning permission with some matters reserved (appearance, landscaping, layout, scale) for the erection of two dwellings, with demolition of lean-to of existing building and alterations to existing highway access.

Planning Committee 'Objects with comments': this would be building outside the village envelope and would be developing a back land development. This is land outside the village envelope and could be used for affordable housing, in the future. Other concerns are the access to the proposed development along Chiswick End which is narrow and the lack of a footway.'

Bury Lane Farm Erection of children's S/4082/17/FL outside play area, overflow car parking area and low level grass bunding.

The Planning Committee recommend 'Support' with no comments.

56 Whitecroft Road S/4085/17/FL

Two storey rear extension

The Planning Committee recommend 'Support' with no comments.

Temple House, 27 High Street S/3890/17/FL & S/3891/17/LB

Remodelling of part of a listed building and the demolition and renovation of an adjoining barn within the curtilage.

New farm access

Meldreth Parish Council recommend 'Support' for both applications with no comments.

Adjacent to Fenny Lane Farm 24 Fenny Lane S/2890/17/FL

62

Meldreth Parish Council recommend 'Support' with comments. 'Some of the ash trees have 'Ash Dieback'. The application states that two trees are to be removed and six to be planted. Trees to be planted need to be 'dieback' resistant or a native alternative.

Reference and Address

Detail

Parish Council Recommend

55 High Street S/4073/17/TP

Tree works: one Robinia – tree is excessively tall, casing much shading and liable to wind damage. Pruning required to reduce height to 9-10m (pruned previously). Robinia – tree very tall, causing much shading and liable to wind damage. Pruning required to reduce height to 9-10m (pruned previously). Lime – last tree in row of pollarded limes but allowed to grow to full size. Tree is now overhanging the public road. Height to be cut to match the height of the pollarded limes and maintained as such, final height 3.8m same as other trees.

No Comment. It was also agreed by all that the Tree Warden's comments be sent to the Tree Officer at SCDC.

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

4 Whitecroft Road S/3493/17/FL

Permission granted for a first floor and loft extension.

4 Stone Lane S/3722/17/FL

Permission granted for proposed alterations and extension

Meldreth Manor School S/2953/17/FL

Permission granted for erection of a new single storey school building and associated works, including demolition of adjacent single storey building.

18 West Way S/3109/17/FL

Permission refused for a first floor extension over existing single storey kitchen to enlarge existing bedrooms, loft conversion and four bedroom dwelling to side garden.

86a High Street S/3164/17/PA

Prior approval for a single storey rear extension has been withdrawn 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 63

We are After Your Talent, Not Your Money!

Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire (HSRSC) is a local charity which quietly, and in confidence, helps families with young children and in personal crisis ‘get back on track’. In so doing, we pro-actively prevent many problems from escalating to major burdens for them and for our community. This early intervention can reduce immediate and future public costs to social services, the health service and, in some cases, educational services.

Thanks to the generosity of local people and organisations, coupled with the dedication and skills of our staff and volunteers, we have continued to provide this service, despite the unfortunate withdrawal of statutory funding from Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire County Councils.

We are proud to have raised almost £90,000 in the last financial year and, recognising that there is no reduction in need, we have raised the target to £140,000 to enable us to extend our service to families in the Buntingford area.

This means that we require more Trustees and we hope you will consider assisting us. The benefits to an organisation and/or individual are likely to include:  The chance to help make a huge difference to the lives of local

people experiencing personal crisis  A personal development opportunity for an employee  A transitional activity for someone moving towards retirement  A demonstration of the organisation’s commitment to support the

local community  A useful addition to a Corporate Responsibility statement  Helpful local publicity

We will be pleased to consider all applications and are particularly interested in people with knowledge and expertise in Finance, HR, Operational Management and Fundraising. We have a thorough Trustee Recruitment procedure and will prepare a comprehensive bespoke induction programme for successful applicants. Trustees are required to attend five evening board meetings a year and to commit 64

approximately ten hours a month in governing and supporting the work of our charity.

We very much hope you will pursue this worthwhile initiative and we should be happy to meet you to discuss any further details. Please contact me by telephone if you would be willing to have an initial, informal chat.

Maureen Brierley Chair of Trustees HSRSC (01763) 262262 www.hsrsc.co.uk

“Farming Memories� Group at Wimpole This is a group for those in the early stages of dementia or memory loss and their carers who have a background or interest in agriculture. Get involved in farming activities with time for a tea break and a catch up!

Care Network is working with the National Trust. To find out more about the group and how to join please contact Care Network on (01954) 211919 or email admin@care-network.org.uk South Cambridgeshire District Council

Refuse Collections Collections in January will be on the following dates: Black bins: 10th*, 23rd Blue bins: 4th*, 16th & 30th Green bins: 16th * late collection due to public holidays Paper caddies will no longer be collected. Paper should be placed directly into the blue bin from now on. Householders may keep their paper caddies or they can be dropped of at the Thriplow recycling centre. They must not be placed into wheeled bins.

Kathryn Betts Editor 65

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

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

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

Photographic Group

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A WI

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

Sport

Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club

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

Church

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

(01763) 220626; https://allsaintsmelbournholytrinitymeldreth.co.uk (01763) 261569 Peter Hinton—(01763) 262045 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk

Baby & Toddler Group Pre-School Primary School

Claire Thunder—07908 902017 07518 173653; www.meldrethPreschool.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Parish Council District Councillor District Council Offices

Please see details at end of Parish Council report Philippa Hart—(01763) 261255 03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/ Susan van de Ven—07905325574 susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/ 0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Heidi Allen—(01954) 212707; www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/

Councils & Govt.

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

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

Childn.

Village Directory

County Councillor County Council Offices MP

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Transport Health Support Services Emergencies NonEmerg.

Misc.

Station Ticket Office

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

Rail User Group

(01763) 261833; www.melbourn.org.uk/railusergroup

Govia/Great Northern

www.thameslinkrailway.com

The Trainline Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc.

Streetlights (faulty)

www.thetrainline.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge 0345 045 5212; http://www2.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ HighwaysReports/Highways/ReportProblem1.aspx 08007838 247 - give location, fault & SC or CCC no.

Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS

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

Childline

Community Transport Home-Start Mind (mental health) Samaritans

0800 1111 (24 hours) Cambridge: 0344 848 7979 Royston: 03444 111 444 www.citizensadvice.org.uk (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org

General Emergency Gas Electricity Anglian Water Cambridge Water

999 or 112 0800 111 999 0800 783 8838 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk

Crimestoppers

S Cambs Fire & Rescue

0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org 101; www.cambs.police.uk Report issues: www.contactcambspolice.uk (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk

Melbourn Hub

(01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com

Royston Museum

(01763) 242587; www.roystonmuseum.org.uk

Citizens Advice Bureau

Police

Details of village groups and facilities can be found in the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Meldreth Matters Team: Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Distribution & Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Editorial Assistant: Robin Farbridge; Founder Member: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available online at issuu.com (search for Meldreth)

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

6 months £134.00 £74.00 £43.00 £11.00

12 months £216.00 £118.00 £65.00 £16.00

Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request.

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

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

A10 Timber .....................................36 Abode Town and Country ........Cover.

Affordable Plumbing .......................28 Art of Clean ....................................24 Art of Clean Wood ..........................53 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) .........57 B2B Automotive .............................36 Benjamin and Fredericks .................21 Cam Valley Orchards .....................46 Cambourne Self Storage ..................24 Cambridge Roofers (1) ...................21 Cambridge Roofers (2) ....................46 Cambridge Sunblinds ....................57 CHS Day Centre .............................21 CHS Group ....................................60 Community Rail Partnership (Job) .. 61 Coton Electrical ..............................24 The Country Store ...........................28 Ely Design Group ...........................53 Eternit Sports and Social Club ..........49 Four Counties Tree Services ............46 Gilhooly .........................................60 Home Foot Care .............................14 iPlaster ...........................................49 Lawn Partners .................................14 The Letting Centre ...........................6

Lingualounge ...................................49 Little Hands Nursery School ............53 Mandy Thornton Counselling ..........53 Melbourn Flooring .....................Cover Melbourn Village College (1) ..........14 Melbourn Village College (2) ..............6 Meldreth Landscapes .....................49 Meldreth Plant Hire .........................52 Michael Easton Personal Trainer ......49 Moncraft Computers ........................14 Nancy Foster Footcare .....................28 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service36 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......13 Penn Farm Physiotherapy .................53 Reflections Hair Studio ....................13 Richard Burns Electrician ..................14 Rod’s PC Support .....................Cover Royston Fencing ...............................28 Shelford Energy ...............................61 Slimming World ...............................24 Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ............. 13 Summit Landscapes ..........................13 Village Garden Services ....................28 Walkers Partnership Solicitors ....Cover Wedding Stationery ...........................61 68

MELBOURN FLOORING AND INTERIORS LIMITED Cherry Park, Cambridge Road, Melbourn, SG8 6EY Tel: 01763 262413 Fax: 01763 262450 Vast Range of Carpets, Vinyls, Real Wood, Laminates, Karndean, Amtico and Project Floors Free Estimates - Fitting by experienced staff Dulux Paint stocked in a wide range of colours Over 6000 Wallpaper samples Colour co-ordination service by experienced staff Designer Fabrics, most with next day delivery - Curtain making service Match flooring to walls and fabric for a designer finish New Tile showroom at 26 Royston Road, Foxton, CB22 6SE, 01223 870011.

Covering all your tiling needs. www.melbournflooring.co.uk j.shepherd@melbournflooring.co.uk VISIT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM 9 TO 5 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9 TO 4 SATURDAY OR CALL ON 01763 262413 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY STAFF. AMPLE FREE PARKING.

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RML IT Consultants Ltd Newton Hall, Town Street, Newton, Cambridge CB22 7ZE Tel: +44 (0) 1223 873747, Mobile 07946 216268 Email: info@rmlconsultants.co.uk

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QUIZ NIGHT

You are invited to join us for a light-hearted and fun Quiz Night with Supper in Meldreth Village Hall on Friday 26th January 2018 - 7.00 for 7.30pm

We would welcome teams with a maximum of 6 people please feel free to give your team a name If you are unable to make a full team, please do still join us and we will include you in a team.

Proceeds in aid of Meldreth Tennis Club Tickets ÂŁ12.00 per person to include a supper of fish, chicken, sausage or veggie burger and chips You are very welcome to bring your own drinks and nibbles along to this event.

To book your tickets and confirm your choice of supper, or for further information, please call Tracy on (01763) 243376 or 07815 148022 Meldreth Matters is printed by Plumridge Printers 41 High St Linton 01223 891407