Meldreth Matters, July 2017

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July 2017


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Meldreth Matters, July 2017 Contents include … Meldreth Events Maycroft Care Home Children’s Art Competition Preschool Events for Families Messy Church Primary School Letters to the Editor Friends of Holy Trinity Meldreth Fete Elin Way Lunch Club District Councillor’s Report Cam Vale Bus Users Group County Councillor’s Report WI & Women’s Group Good Companions Prayer Group Parish Council Local Events Cambridge Open Studios Neighbourhood Watch Volunteering Opportunities Pet News Meldreth Futures Working Group Planning Matters U3A Spotted Flycatchers Notes From a Small Garden Charity Run Fire & Rescue Service Village Directory Index to Advertisers

Page 2-3 5-6 8 9 10 11 12-14 14-15 17 18 21 22-23 23 24-25 27 28 28 33-38 40-41 42-43 44-45 47 48-49 49 50 52-53 53 54-55 55 57 62-63 64

Welcome to the July issue of Meldreth Matters. When I was putting this issue together, I particularly enjoyed reading the Primary School’s submission (pages 12-14). Our village school offers an incredible range of activities and opportunities for such a small school, enabling its pupils to develop a wide range of skills. If you would like to become involved with the school, please visit its website, www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk, where you will find details of how you can become a volunteer helper. Paid positions are also advertised on the website and there is currently a vacancy for a temporary part-time Playleader. See page 14 or the website for details. Kathryn

Cover: Meldreth Village Hall 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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July Events in Meldreth Saturday 1st July, 10.30am until 12 noon Coffee Break Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way Coffee, tea, squash and biscuits will be served at very reasonable prices. Please join us if you can. Friday 7th July, 7.00 - 9.00pm Meldreth Local History Group 10th Birthday Celebration Community Centre, Elin Way Meldreth Local History Group is ten years old this year. We have been so well supported, over the years, by local residents and worldwide too. To say thank you we would like to invite you to celebrate with us, so please join us for a complimentary drink. There will be a small exhibition to showcase some of our past work and present our plans for the future. We look forward to seeing you. Joan Gane Chairman, MLHG Friday 7th July, 8.30-11.00pm Live music with “Wolf Pack� Eternit Sports and Social Club, Whaddon Road All welcome Free entry, licensed bar with real ale, etc

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Sunday 9th July, 3.30-5.30pm Messy Church Holy Trinity Church Storm! Come and make stormy music with us, play parachute games and make race boats. Help us make a storm in a bottle. Join us for music, science, crafts, a story with puppets and a delicious picnic. Mostly outdoors, weather permitting. For full details see page 11 Sunday 16th July, 2.00-5.30pm Jazz’n Tea Party Eternit Sports and Social Club, Whaddon Road Under cover if wet Music by The Louise Hobbs Quartet Raising funds for Home-Start For more details see back page

Meldreth’s Community Access Point Free tuition in computer use Whether you are a complete beginner or want to learn more about getting the best out of your computer, our volunteer tutors can help you. Interested? Call Ron on (01763) 262199

New to the village? Visit the “Meldreth Today” section of our website

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Information on Meldreth’s footpaths, village facilities and almost 30 local groups is available 3


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Maycroft Care Home June has been a busy month in Maycroft with visits from Frank and his trumpet on General Election Day and the residents’ favourites, Jukebox Legends on 12th June. The usual activities such as cookery, board games, bingo and quizzes have also continued. Our reminiscences programme which involves a weekly newspaper for all residents who want it, supported with music and extra illustrations on the TV is proving increasingly popular. Some folk have been very busy in the garden and greenhouse taking special care of our tomato plants. The large bed in the courtyard garden has been dug over and supplemented with bedding plants which brightens up that area. Twelve glorious hanging baskets have arrived which some residents enjoy watering and all can admire right through the summer. The strawberry patch has produced quite a lot of fruit but because of the dry weather, much of it has been very small. This has not been wasted as the cooks have made it into jam, some of which was sold at the Fete. Lots of potting up and watering has also been going on ready for the plant stall. We have two special treats lined up for the last two Sundays this month. Our annual Proms in the Garden will take place on 23rd July with soprano Olivia Barry singing many favourites. The residents’ families will enjoy cocktails upon arrival and an afternoon cream tea during the performance. The following Sunday sees a new event: an 'Hawaiian afternoon' with singing, dancing and much socialising amongst the guests! Sponsored Walk for Alzheimer's Research UK Sunday 20th August, 10.30am We have chosen this charity as their research benefits all types of dementia and they are locally based. The route: we will start from Maycroft and it is proposed that the walkers and volunteer pushers of residents in their wheelchairs, will go along the High Street past the shop to Flambards Close. The wheelchair users can then see the walkers go off over the bridge to walk the footpath along the Mel through the wood until they reach Topcliffe meadow. continued ... 5


The wheelchairs users will then reverse and make their way back towards Maycroft. Here the pushers can decide with the residents on one of the following three options, according to the weather and strength of the pusher. They can return to Maycroft. They can walk up to the Stocks and sit, hopefully in the sun, watching passing traffic and villagers and welcome home the walkers as they come along North End. The very strong can walk up to the Church and cheer the walkers after they have progressed through the meadow, past the rushing millrace along the last part of footpath onto the main road. Then everyone can return to Maycroft for refreshments on the front lawn or inside. Those with sponsor forms can have them verified. We estimate this will take about an hour of your time along a very pretty walk, especially if you are not familiar with the route or area. Hopefully we will raise a good sum to help the growing number of people worldwide who are suffering from these dreadful diseases. Finally, some great news: the contractors were due to move onto the site on 19th June to start building the new wing. Friends of Maycroft

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme

Now operating in Meldreth Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour? What are our Services? The wardens make regular visits and telephone calls to provide social contact and friendship. They help people to keep safe and healthy in their homes and carry out errands around the villages for their clients, including shopping, collecting prescriptions and paying bills. Wardens assist clients to access other support they may need such as domestic help, home maintenance , meals or benefits etc. What will it cost? We do have to make a small weekly charge for the services. The fee is only ÂŁ6 per week (a little more for couples). How can I join? For more information please contact Jeannie on 07808 735066 or Jane on 07592 821976. Melbourn Warden Scheme is a registered charity 6


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Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire Invites you to take part in our KITE FESTIVAL CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION This competition is open to children up to the age of 11 and will be judged in the following age categories – under 3, 3–5 year olds, 6–8 year olds and 9-11 year olds The theme of the competition is to DESIGN A KITE PICTURE Please design your picture on a piece of white A4 paper or card, then add your name, age and telephone number on the back of your picture Please post your entry to us by Friday 4th August, 2017 at: Home Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire Unit 6, Valley Farm, Station Road, Meldreth, Royston, Herts. SG8 6JP or come along and see us on the Home-Start stall at the Kite Festival on 6th August and do your picture then There will be a display of pictures on our stall and entries will be judged towards the end of the event. Prizes will be awarded for each age category and winners will be notified If you have any queries or require further information, please call the Home-Start office on (01763) 262262 8


Meldreth Preschool www.meldrethpreschool.com As always, the warmer weather has seen the children of Meldreth Preschool making the most of their outdoor space and with the exciting work going on at the tennis courts, there have been plenty of opportunities to spot some of their favourite machines and cheer on the workers. Those who attended our ladies’ night in May will know what a roaring success it was. Attendees got the chance to try out beauty treatments, enjoy a glass or two of fizz and even find out what their futures held. We raised around £900 which will be put to good use providing more opportunities for the children. Thanks to Lucy for organising it, all the local businesses who contributed raffle prizes and everyone who came along and supported the Preschool on the night. We have also welcomed a new member of staff at the Preschool, Amy, who will be coming in to ensure that we have plenty of hands on deck for our busiest sessions. She is already a hit with the children and will be getting to know everyone over the next few weeks. The Preschool is always keen to welcome visitors with interesting jobs, hobbies or skills that they can share with the children. We have already welcomed a team of fire fighters, the police and a vet to talk to the children about their jobs, not to mention our ‘Farm to Fork’ visit from Tesco and our visit to Topcliffe Mill. Please get in touch if you or someone you know could come in and share their skills with the children – we always love to learn about a range of subjects! There are still spaces available at the Preschool for children aged 2 and above who want the chance to socialise, play and learn. You can make an appointment to visit the Preschool to meet the staff, see what happens in a typical day and talk about your requirements. Simply call our manager Cassie on 07518 173653 or email manager@meldrethpreschool.com. Meldreth Preschool

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What’s On for Children and Families in July These events are taking place in the local area. For Meldreth events, please see pages 2-3. Sunday 2nd July , 11.30am –5.00pm Ely Aquafest, riverside locations in Ely River races, live music, Viking re-enactments, wakeboarding demonstrations, fun fair, stalls, food, drink. For more information see elyaquafest.org.uk. Friday 7th July, 7.30pm – 9.10pm - gates open at 6.30pm The Emperor’s New Clothes, Fowlmere Village Hall and Recreation Ground, Cambridgeshire SG8 7RY Outdoor theatre by Illyria – interactive and funny. Dress for the weather, bring a picnic and something to sit on. Tickets £14 for adults, £7 for children (5+ years) from (01763) 208516 or Foxton and Thriplow village shops. For details see www.illyria.uk.com. Saturday 15th July, 11.00am – 3.00pm. Archaeology for All, Wandlebury Park, Babraham CB22 3AE Practical activities and guided tours of the Iron Age hill fort with the Cambridge Young Archaeology Club. Free but donations welcome. For information ring (01223) 243830 weekdays only. Saturday 15th July, 10.30am – 12.30pm. Mixed Media, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Join children’s illustrator Lauren Clemmey to create a mixed media masterpiece inspired by art in the museum. £8 for children 8 – 12 years. To book (01223) 332904 or education@fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk. Monday 24th July, 10.00am – 12.00pm Gruffalo Woods! Wandlebury, Cambridgeshire CB22 3AE Look for Gruffalo characters in the woods, build a stick home, make a

Gruffalo mask and stick and clay animals. For accompanied children 3 – 5 years. £3 parking fee.

Thursday 27th July, 11.00am – 4.00pm. Children’s Archaeology Day, Denny Abbey, Waterbeach CB25 9PQ Search for archaeological finds and ‘repair’ ancient pots. Admission £5 adults, £3 children. For more information see dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk. Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 10


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Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Promoting Leadership Among Our Children Watching the diverse and singular qualities of our political leaders in the recent General Election, I thought it might be interesting to share some notes on the leadership opportunities that we offer in school, where possibly, even hopefully, we may inspire some of our pupils to refresh the somewhat jaded political landscape that they are currently growing up in. Just as we try to develop children’s knowledge and skills across the curriculum, we also offer numerous extracurricular opportunities in sports, music, gardening and the arts, where children can develop themselves in other ways. In addition, we have set up a number of organisations within school which enable children to explore their leadership potential in different ways. Here, some of our young leaders describe the positions that they currently hold.

Emma B: Year 5 representative on the School Council: To be a school councillor, I first had to do a small talk for everyone on why I would be a good councillor for our class, moreover I had to be elected out of the many people who wanted to be a school councillor. Luckily, I was elected to represent our class. In school, there are ten school councillors and we do many jobs to help the school be safer, make it more fun and many more things. The most recent thing we have accomplished is to count all the Sainsbury’s vouchers and look at what kind of equipment we could buy for lunch times. I have been a school councillor for over 6 months and have really enjoyed typing up the ideas we create in the meetings. In the meetings, we get a sheet of paper that has a bunch of questions that we need to ask our class and produce answers. Then, in the next meeting we have we would all share our answers and type them on Mrs Howard’s computer, so that we could do something with the answers, depending on the question. Every meeting takes place on Thursdays during Mr Jones’ assembly. It has been a great experience being a school councillor and I hope I could do it again someday.

Trixie and Theo - Year 4 and Year 5 Eco Councillors To become an eco-councillor you have to apply for the part by writing a paragraph on the things that you would do to help the environment. After that the class would decide who would be our class’s eco 12


councillor. When the results came in, back in September it was me and Trixie who were chosen followed by Daniel and Charlie from Woodpecker Class, Eva and Chris from Swallow and Quinn and Asher from Jay class. We would not have done what we have done without the fabulous Miss Cole who also runs the gardening club that is also very eco-friendly. My favourite part of eco council is the competitions that we get to judge. The most recent competition that we had was to gather loads of recycled materials and make something out of it. We also do checks in classes to make sure everyone is recycling their paper and turning the lights off when they’re not being used. One of the things that we do to help the environment is to put all of our waste food scraps in the compost bins. Our school currently has a bronze eco award and is working to get a silver one!!!

Mia and Nicole – Play leaders All of us in Year 5 have been trained in how to be play leaders. Now, to get ready for when we are in Year 6, we have been doing play leading for about 4 weeks. Play leading is when you go into lunch early, then come out and lead some games for Key stage one children who still need to be shown how to play nicely. We enjoy play leading because we really enjoy playing with the younger children if they have no one to play with. The equipment that we use for Play leading is: skittles, sponge hoops and rubber horse shoes that you have to try and throw into a little stand. We do play leading because if somebody doesn’t have anyone to play with then they can come to the play leaders and join in with our great games. Although they can also come and play with us any time they like, and lots of them do. Some of our little problems that we have are trying to get more people to come and join in with our games and sometimes people run away with some of our equipment which is a nuisance.

Anti-Bullying Council – Charlie W Being an Anti-Bullyer is important to me because I feel like I'm helping other people. We had an election and we had to tell people why we would be good Anti-Bullyers. Two people got chosen from my class and I was one of them. Sometimes we meet to put on competitions about Anti-Bullying 13


and sometimes when people have arguments we go and sort it out. Because we have our anti- bullying councillors, it means people are happy in school and we don't have much bullying. I feel happy with being an Anti- Bullyer because it helps sad people in school. Vacancy for a Playworker A vacancy exists for a Playworker for our After School/Breakfast Club. Hours are 7.40-8.50am on Tuesdays and 3.00-5.00pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. The position is available for one year in the first instance, to August 2018. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible. Full details can be obtained from the school’s website, www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk or by contacting the school office on (01763) 260432 or office@meldreth.cambs.sch.uk. Andrew Jones Deputy Headteacher

Letters to the Editor Thank You I’m absolutely delighted to be your County Councillor again for the coming four years - there are never snap elections for the County Council! As you know, the Council boundaries have changed and Meldreth is now clustered with Melbourn, Whaddon and Bassingbourn. The synergies across the division villages are not about education, as they were under the old boundaries when our division included feeder villages to Melbourn Village College – but there are other commonalities that will require joint attention, especially around traffic. And there are always good new ideas that come from seeing how things are done elsewhere. Thank you for the many kind expressions of moral support, whatever your political views, during the seemingly endless election cycle. There’s lots of practical work to do now and I look forward to working with everybody to get things done. Susan van de Ven 14


Letters to the Editor Whitecroft Road Race Strip You may not be aware, but the village of Meldreth has its own Race Strip known as Whitecroft Road. Sadly it is not a full circuit due to the speed bumps in the High Street. There is no specific criteria for using the race strip or age restrictions. The Race Strip is not constrained to man/woman in white van or man/ woman with fluffy dice in car. Previous users of the race strip have included women with children; pensioners; business men/women; lorry drivers and bus/coach drivers. It is advised that you're not under the influence of drink or drugs whilst using the strip, though you can obtain extra points for this! You can drive as fast as you can down the race strip; you won't always be seen, but on occasion you will be lucky enough to be awarded a letter from the Village Speedwatch Team or even better than this you will receive a letter from the Police, they give you bonus points too! After achieving the above you may be thinking ... what next? After achieving some points from the Police and your official documentation to confirm your speed, you can work up to the ultimate award; perhaps 'Death by Dangerous Driving'. This provides more points, loss of your licence and in some instances a stay at Her Majesty's pleasure (please note this is not at Buckingham Palace). This race strip is available 24/7 365 days a year. To use The Strip you do need a full driving licence and a road worthy vehicle, although not having them will get you the privilege of some extra points from the local constabulary. You may be surprised to read that the speed limit is actually 30mph on Whitecroft Road. How about trying to stick to the speed limit before one of our children or relatives gets injured or worse still, killed by someone speeding? Name and address supplied

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Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk Open Gardens, Sunday 4th June This year’s event moved back to June and in good weather, albeit with a brief shower at the end. It was a great success with just under 200 people attending. There were seven gardens open ranging from our regular vegetable expert, a recently completed cottage garden new to the event, and five other excellent gardens that have opened before, plus the popular plant stall. Teas were very popular at the church, complemented by the demonstration of kneeler stitching and display, 25 have been completed and six are in progress, in a 25 year programme!

Forthcoming Events: Sunday 3rd September 13th Annual Churchyard Car show Planning has started with some interesting exhibits new to the event like this 1910 Buick.

Events being considered for the autumn include Flanders and Swan revisited - a reminder of the accomplished duo The History of Cambridge University January 2018 - Annual Supper

Church Matters: Lead Roof Two defendants appeared in Peterborough Magistrates Court on 7th June charged with 18 and nine counts respectively of Theft and Criminal Damage, both pleading ‘not guilty� and the cases were passed to Peterborough Crown Court. The defendants are on bail and are due to appear on 5th July. This will be a pre trial review hearing, during which time the trial date will be set. John Price 17


Meldreth Fete: Thank You The Meldreth Fete Organising Committee wishes to offer a huge thank you to everyone who contributed so much time and effort to its preparation and to the event itself: without you it could not have happened. We particularly wish to thank the many local businesses who supported us in a variety of ways. We approached over 60 businesses and we never cease to be amazed at the enthusiastic response we are met with and their willingness to help. Thanks to Wirewell Electronics, GTI Group, Marley Eternit, Johnson Matthey and the TTP Group for significant financial contributions. More than 40 businesses offered really interesting lots for our auction, and a further ten donated Raffle Prizes. Thanks also to the Tobin family from The British Queen and to Cam Valley Orchards for their generosity and enthusiastic support. Thank you to all the community groups who agreed to take part in the tug of war or ran stalls and to so many people who offered creative and innovative ideas. Above all we wanted to hold a community event where everyone would have a really good time and we hope that we achieved this aim. We are sure that you can see ways to improve the event. Please share them with us by emailing Jane at janerem@aol.com or Richard at richardremnant@gmail.com. Jane Remnant

Attention all Jam Makers! When you're making your own jam this summer, please save a jar or two for us to sell at the Christmas Tree Festival at the end of November. Our home-made preserves of jam, marmalade, chutney and mincemeat are extremely popular and we can always sell more so we would be very grateful for your contributions. Please save them for the event or call me on (01763) 260456 and I will collect. Many thanks. Carol Osborne 18


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Elin Way Lunch Club Menu Friday 25th August: £8.00 Chicken breast wrapped in bacon & cheese Lemon cheesecake Friday 20th October: £8.00 Home made steak, mushroom and onion pies Apple crumble Friday 1st December: £12.50 Christmas dinner turkey Trifle or Christmas pudding Lunch will be served at 1.00pm on the above dates and will finish at around 3.00 to 3.30pm The Club is open to the over 50s. Lunch must be booked in advance by calling Eileen Allan, Estate Officer on 07712411976. If you book to have a meal and then are unable to attend, we would appreciate it if you could still pay for your meal as the food will have been ordered and paid for. Thank you. For further information, please contact Eileen Allan, Estate Officer on 07712411976 or email eileen.allan@scambs.gov.uk. Eileen Allan Sheltered Housing Estate Officer

A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign Our next meeting will be on 5th July, from 7.30-9.00pm at AstraZeneca, the Da Vinci Building, Melbourn Science Park. If you think you’d like to attend, please could you drop a line to contacta10cycle@gmail.com as we’ll need to provide our hosts with an attendance list. No problem if you sign up but change your mind! Susan van de Ven County Councillor 21


District Councillor’s Report The British Queen I am delighted to report that after considerable setbacks and delays, the planning permissions for both the applications to respectively convert the adjacent barn to provide overnight accommodation and a barber’s premises and to extend the kitchen and eating areas of the pub have been granted. Marley The application is currently scheduled to be considered by SCDC Planning Committee on Wednesday 5th July. The village will be represented by a planning lawyer, the Parish Council, a representative of the Marley Eternit Working Group. Both of your elected Councillors, myself and Susan van de Ven, will also be in attendance. Members of the public are permitted to attend; proceedings get under way at 10.00am in the Chamber at Cambourne and the running order will be published on the SCDC website a week in advance. Filcup Field, Meldreth Road, Shepreth Residents living near the site have raised queries regarding certain site clearance activities. I have contacted the applicant who tells me that the site clearance is for cosmetic purposes and that the scheme is yet to find a financial backer. I have sought further assurances regarding observance of pre-commencement conditions. Maycroft Work will soon be underway to extend and improve Maycroft Care Home. Planning Performance The Planning Department’s performance is going backwards again and I understand that the number of live applications is heading over the 600 mark. Members have been invited to attend briefings about a new shared service with Cambridge City Council and although this makes a great deal of sense geographically and by the joint approach to the Planning Inspector by the two councils regarding the Local Plan, experience to date with shared services in the IT, legal and building control departments has not been happy. Tenancy Inspections SCDC housing officers should be contacting all their tenants to inform them that they will be visiting them to discuss aspects of household 22


tenancy and to carry out inspections of their properties. Details of how the visits are to be organised are to be found on page 5 of the Council's Tenant and Leaseholder magazine which all tenants should receive. Handyperson Service Following the success of a trial service, the District Council is now offering this service to all its tenants and leaseholders. This includes minor joinery, minor gardening jobs, security such as fitting locks etc, minor plumbing jobs and electrical work and DIY support. All materials must be provided by the tenant and charges are ÂŁ10 per half hour (+VAT) and ÂŁ20 per hour (+VAT). To arrange an appointment telephone 0800 085 1313. South Cambridgeshire District Council Magazine I recently received my copy but there are still gaps. Please let me know if you have yet to receive yours. Councillor Philippa Hart Meldreth and Shepreth Ward 01763 261255 or 07811 323571 philippajhart@brinternet.com

Cam Vale Bus Users Group Our next meeting will be on Monday 17th July at 7.30pm at The Limes Community Centre, High Street, Bassingbourn. We'll be rotating the Bus Users' Group meeting between Meldreth and Bassingbourn. Lifts will be arranged for anyone who'd like to come along on the 17th: please contact me. This meeting will have two focuses: 1) the new minibus shuttle service from Bassingbourn and Whaddon to Meldreth Station and 2) an update on protecting and enhancing bus services. We'll be inviting our new mayor to the meeting to discuss the potential of new bus franchising powers and encouraging him to put these into action. Susan van de Ven 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com 23


County Councillor’s Report The following report was submitted at the Meldreth Parish Council Meeting in June. County Council Business At the time of writing, due to the ongoing election purdah the new County Council’s decision-making committees are not yet underway – but all begins again now. Controversial decisions resulting from further budget reductions are expected soon. The composition of the Council has changed and is now under overall Conservative control. The opposition structure has been diminished with the official opposition spokesperson’s roles removed, and all Chairs and Vice Chairs held by the Conservatives (except Audit and Accounts, which always seems to go by invitation to the Lib Dems). Hopefully the Services Committees will continue to work constructively. I’ve been appointed to the Health Committee and the Health and Wellbeing Board, which offer excellent perspective over a range of issues. I’m not sure yet about the bus and community transport group which worked to protect subsidies for lifeline transport – but I will report when I know more. Meldreth School Expansion For confirmation, this from County team today: “The expansion is 100% going ahead and is a named capital project in CCC’s Education Capital Programme. The expansion is due to be completed for September 2018. Now we have completed the consultation event our next step is to submit the planning application, which is a Reg3 planning application that will be submitted to CCC’s planning department. The contractor and design team are just in the process of finalising the documents for the planning application for submission. Expect to submit planning application next month [July].” 128 Bus Complaints Thank you to those people who have taken the trouble to get in touch with a couple of specific concerns about the 128 service. Because this service is County-subsidised I am feeding any comments directly to County Council. Kneesworth Road Junction Update: Crack Seal and Dragon Patch From County Road and Safety team: “The marker posts are now erected at the Meldreth crossroads. I have spoken to the Local 24


Highways Officer, Peter J Taylor, regarding the condition of the carriageway within the vicinity as the centre section is failing and although it does not meet intervention as yet, it would not be viable to lay a new centre line on it. Peter is going to add it to the list for crack seal repairs within his area and until this is done I will delay the replacement of the lining at this location.” I have responded to say that I would hope a resurfacing application to the road can be achieved rather than just a crack sealing. The answer was that they might go for a dragon patch, which adds to the colour of new vocabulary now used to deal with our crumbling roads. What is a dragon patch? County: “You may have seen the “dragon” as it is called on our roads around the county. It basically blows bitumen emulsion into the defect followed by chippings.” At least we are better informed. Thanks to the County officers for doing their best in a difficult situation. New Shuttle Service? Bassingbourn and Whaddon Parish Councils have agreed to pursue with Royston and District Community Transport the possibility of an early morning shuttle service to Meldreth Station. We are working together on a transport needs survey to ascertain the level of interest. The anecdotal evidence of private car journeys to Meldreth is strong so I hope that if we can build up, through various channels, public transport links to Meldreth Station, traffic on Whitecroft Road can be mitigated to some extent. Drop-in Advice Surgeries My drop-in advice surgery will continue but with slightly revised arrangements: first Monday of every month from 3.00-4.00pm at Melbourn Hub; third Monday of every month from 3.00-4.00pm at The Limes Community Centre in Bassingbourn. Alternatively, please contact me if you’d like to meet at another time or closer to home. Susan van de Ven County Councillor 07905 325574 susanvandeven5@gmail.com

25


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Meldreth WI The expression 'a busy bee' is very true. Stephen Poyser told us all about the difference between a bumble bee and a honey bee at our June meeting. There is one queen bee for each colony and she may live up to three years and will breed thousands of times. To make one jar of honey, a bee will have to have flown thousands of miles selecting the pollen of its choice. The price of honey can vary, but look for pure honey and you know it will have come from a reputable source. Also look for the weight as most English honey is sold in 1lb jars. There are many 'bee friendly' plants to be found in gardens, including clematis, hollyhocks, ivy and heathers. Stephen said that empty honey jars should be washed carefully as should they get broken at the tip different sorts of alien bees can multiply very quickly and through time will kill off the honey bees. Then, no matter how long the “clock stands at ten to three” there won't be “honey still for tea”! For next month's meeting we are going out for a meal to the Green Man. If you haven’t put your name down please get in touch with Jane. Kathleen Thompson

Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group Our Summer supper was held on 23rd May and it was a beautiful warm evening. Thirty-six members and their guests enjoyed a ploughman’s supper followed by a variety of puddings. All of this was organised and prepared by the committee members and our thanks go to them. Our thanks also go to all those who helped with setting up, clearing away and in the kitchen with the washing up and drying. It was a lovely and relaxed evening. Our next meeting will be at 7.45pm on 25th July in the Holy Trinity Church meeting room, where we will have a relaxed evening listening to our favourite music, brought along by members. If you would like to know more about the Women’s Group or need a lift to meetings please contact one of the following committee members: Pat Smith (01763) 262575, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Anne Harrison (01763) 261775 or Angela Leach (01763) 262793. Pat Smith 27


Good Companions Jane Poole came to our June meeting and talked to us about the Community Lifeline Service. She said having a Lifeline allows people, young and old, to stay in their own homes longer. You can either have a pendant worn on a neck cord or a wrist strap. A small base unit is connected to your telephone line, the device also gives family 'peace of mind'. When the pendant is pressed it engages the telephone to make a speed call to the monitoring service and they will arrange for appropriate help. We then had our usual cup of tea and biscuits, a raffle and discussed our July meeting which will be an outing to Southend. Laraine Pocknell, Secretary (01763) 261432

Joint Parish Prayer Group The Prayer Group this month will be meeting on Tuesday 18th at the home of Mrs Patricia Smith, 23 Armingford Crescent, Melbourn. The group meeting will take place from 8.00pm until approximately 9.00pm. Please join us if you feel the need for prayer or quiet meditation. Prayer requests are always welcomed and treated in strict confidence. Marion Long (01763) 261365

Refuse Collections Collections in July will be on the following dates: Black bins: 11th & 25th July Blue and Green bins: 4th & 18th July 28


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29


Meldreth Villa Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thur

The copy deadline for the August issue of Meldreth Matters is Wed

To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow us on Issuu: https://issuu 9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

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

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

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

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 5.30 Veg Club Plus, 1 Bell Close 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

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

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.40-11.30am Mobile Library 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

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

9.15am Cycling Group

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis 7.30pm Paris

3 4 5 6 10 11 12 1 17 18 19 2 24 25 26 2 31 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics

6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

Copy deadline for August issue

6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

7.00-10.00pm Crafters

7.45pm Women’s Group

Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 ‘Coffee Break’ mornings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Browni room. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the lay-by oppos 30


ge Diary - July

sday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday 9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

1 2 6 7 8 9 3 14 15 16 0 21 22 23 7 28 29 30

nesday 12th July

10.00am-4.00pm Mouse Show 10.30am-12 noon Coffee Break

u.com/meldrethmatters

m Fitness

m Table

h Council

7.00-9.00pm Meldreth Local History Grp 10th Birthday Celebration, Elin Way (see page 2) 8.30-11.00pm Music with Wolf Pack, Eternit Sports & Social Club (see p. 2)

8.00am Holy Communion 3.30-5.30pm Messy Church, Holy Trinity Church (see page 11) 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School

m Fitness

2.00-5.30pm Jazz’n Tea Party, Eternit (see back page) 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

m Fitness

8.00am Holy Communion

m Table

5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

Last day of school term

9.45am Family Communion 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

m Fitness

m Table

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. 31


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Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Thursday 1st June 2017 in Meldreth Village Hall. Present: Councillor R W Goddin (Chairman) , Councillor C A Land, Councillor A Keena, Councillor D Lee, Councillor R A Searles, Councillor A Young. In attendance: Mrs J Damant (Clerk), Councillor P Hart (SCDC) Apologies for absence: Councillor N P Pellatt (Vice Chairman) Councillor J Fallon, Councillor S van der Ven (CCC Public Participation There were six members of the public in attendance. Items raised by the public: A resident at Chiswick End reported that there appears to be rubble/ hardcore being stockpiled near land on Chiswick End and would like to know if this is a long or short term project? Clerk will ask the landowner. A resident enquired if the Parish Council can be involved in the Local Development Plan process which they had read about in the latest SCDC magazine. Councillor Hart explained that the Local Development Plan has been suspended and is now with the Inspector. A resident enquired whether the Parish Council had heard from Network Rail regarding the proposed level crossing closure; they also informed the Council that they had received a reply and that there will be a local planning enquiry. Clerk said that they had not received any response. Parish Council Vacancy The Chairman welcomed all those who had attended the meeting and reported that Mrs Garner had given her apologies. The Chairman stated that nominees do not have to be in attendance so this would not affect Mrs Garner's application. The remaining nominees addressed the Council to introduce themselves and say why they wished to be considered. There were four nominees in total and the Parish Councillors took a vote by ballot. The Clerk recorded the results and it was an overall 33


majority for Dr James, receiving four votes out of a possible six. Dr James agreed to take a seat and signed his Acceptance of Office, witnessed by the Proper Officer (Clerk). The Chairman again thanked all those who had shown an interest and explained that in May 2018 all seats will be up for election and he hoped that those nominees who had not been successful this time would put themselves forward again next year. District Councillor’s Report: see pages 22-23 County Councillor’s Report: see page 24-25 Tennis Courts A funding request of £2000 has been received from the Tennis Club. Councillor Goddin read out the letter. It was proposed by Councillor Young that £1,281.00 be given out of the precept; this was seconded by Councillor Searles. The Parish Council had set aside funds in the 2017/18 budget for the tennis courts. The remainder of the request, for £719 for the purchase of junior kits so that the Club can start to promote junior tennis, to be given from the Community Benefit Fund (Solar Fund). Proposed by Councillor Searles, seconded by Councillor Lee, all agreed. Work was due to start on Wednesday 7th June and it was felt by all Councillors that the project is well known to them so they could make the decision without it going to the Meldreth Futures Working Group for their recommendation. The Tennis Club raised £30,700 and contributed £23,300 themselves. They received £5000 from the Community Benefit Fund but due to a change in contractor and the fact that they had to match fund 11%, (£3,300), of the grant from Amey Cespa (net £26,700) it has left them slightly short. Annual Parish Meeting (Village Meeting) Concerns raised by residents at the meeting were: Speeding within the village The state of the footways. Village Traffic Working Group Following the Annual Parish Meeting, where residents expressed their concern with speeding, it was felt that more needs to be done. At the moment there are various groups of people working hard to make Meldreth a safer village: from the Highway volunteers who cut back footways and foliage to the members of Speedwatch, all of whom do a very important job. However it was felt that the groups may work better if there was a common cause. Councillor Young will lead this 34


group with Councillor Searles and Councillor Goddin along with the District and County Councillors. Mrs Gilmore will also be part of the group. Councillor Searles stated that the markers at the Fenny Lane crossroads have now been erected and the white lining will be done shortly. Church Wall Mr Llewellyn has sent his recommendation to Ms Celia Wignall (SCDC), awaiting her response. Meldreth Futures Working Group There have been no further proposals and there have been no recent meetings. Work is continuing on the website. Councillor Goddin stated that nothing should be put on the website without the Parish Council seeing it first. Councillor Young reported that more needs to be done to let residents know that there is a fund available to them. Notices have been put in Meldreth Matters but very little response is coming forward. To be discussed further by the Meldreth Futures Working Group. A map is also still being worked on: it is hoped that a lot of information can be incorporated on either one or two maps, which will show footpaths, dog bins and trees, as well as pubs, recreation facilities, etc. Marley Eternit: Proposed development of 150 dwellings The application has been deferred again and will now be going to the planning meeting in July 2017. Marley will have a 25% affordable housing allocation and not the original 40%. There is still an access objection from the Highways Authority. However, this is no longer a strong objection. Mr Philip Kratz has agreed to attend the meeting on behalf of Meldreth Parish Council. Councillor Hart then explained that she was seeking advice as to how best she can serve Meldreth with this application. As she is now a member of the Planning Committee she would have to declare an interest in this item and would not be able to speak or vote. However, there are other options: one is to have a substitute take her place on the panel, they would be an independent District Councillor, but this would allow Councillor Hart to speak. A meeting is to be arranged with Councillor Hart, Councillor Goddin, Mr Peter Draper (Marley working group member) and Mr Kratz to put together a concise report to be given at the meeting. Playground 1. Monthly Report: all equipment appears to be in good working order. 35


2. ROSPA Inspection has been carried out. The Recreation Ground working party have looked over the report. Clerk to contact Mr Chappell to put into place ROSPA's suggestions. Pavilion Construction:(LGA 1972 s111) Councillor Pellatt and Councillor Goddin have checked the recent works in the pavilion and payment for the final part of Stage Two has been made. This is for works for the shower room, WC and the Ref’s room. Security for Pavilion: (Local Government and Rating Act 1997 s31) CCTV has been ordered and the Clerk will chase next week if items have not been received. Councillor Young noted that there were no spare keys for the pavilion, so he will arrange for further sets to be cut. Pavilion Management Programme There has been no response for the voluntary Overseer position. There has been a response to the cleaner position. Councillor Goddin and Councillor Young to meet with prospective person; Clerk to arrange. Correspondence and Clerk's Report: Mrs P Gilmore attended Paxton Nature Reserve on Wednesday 24th May. Mrs Gilmore gave the Parish Council some information she had received from the event and stated that she felt is was an extremely informative day and much information was given. Paxton Parish Council had managed to carry out the whole project using grants and it is this information which might be beneficial to the Parish Council. Clerk stated that the Parish Council were members of Cambridgeshire Acre who had put on the event. Clerk to contact Mr Norkett to see if it would be possible to have a meeting with Meldreth Futures Group and Parish Councillors and any other interested parties. Horse Chestnut trees at the stocks and burial ground have been inspected by Acacia Tree Surgery with the Clerk. The tree at the Stocks could do with some of the lower limbs taking off and bringing in the crown by 2 or 3 metres so it is clear of the road. The tree, however, appears to be in good health and is not suffering from red canker. The tree in the burial ground has red canker so its life expectancy is predicted to be 5-10 years. This can be shortened if there is a dry summer. The recommendation is to look at it every two years at the end of summer. 36


The trees along Fenny Lane were also looked at and appear to be fine, but they can be included on an bi annual inspection, at the moment they are quite small so easily managed by any garden service company. Dog Bin: Clerk is still waiting for a site meeting or a possible position to place a new dog bin near the war memorial. Councillor Hart said she would also enquire. The litter bin on the corner of Elin Way/Whitecroft Road has now been repaired. A new bin to be ordered to replace the bin knocked over at the stocks. Flambards Bridge has now been repaired, thanks to the Melwood Group. Street Light Survey The Parish Council enquired with Balfour Beatty about getting a total of thirteen lights along North End (SC1-SC9) and Chiswick End (SC10SC13) surveyed to see if they needed replacing and if so what the best option would be. The cost of carrying out the survey would be £399.85 exc vat. Clerk to also enquire if there is a time limit on the survey and if it would be cost effective to have all the lights surveyed. Open Eco Homes A report had been sent in by Mr G Borgonon who attended. Nine people attended this event and the main emphasis was to promote eco homes in villages instead of mainly houses in the city. There are 37 SPEP villages active or semi active and repair cafes seem to be popular with six having been held in South Cambridgeshire. New imaging cameras, the size of a smart phone, were showcased and are being evaluated for availability later. The Meldreth Parish Council website has a SPEP page which Mr Borgonon updates. Audit An Extraordinary meeting to be held to discuss the signing off of the audit. Insurance It was proposed by Councillor Keena that the Parish Council stay with Community Action Suffolk who have been the Parish Council’s insurers for a few years and the quote has only increased by a few pounds. This was seconded by Councillor Land; all agreed.

37


Tree Survey It was agreed that this be deferred until the Clerk has attended the tree course being organised by Huntingdon Town Council as it may need some changes. Mettle Hill Councillor Goddin updated the Council on what has been happening with Mettle Hill and said that all avenues are being looked into. Councillors' Reports Councillor Goddin expressed his disappointment with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Association of Local Councils. When advice was requested relating to co-option procedures, although a response had been received it was not felt to have been very beneficial and further clarification had to be sought, which was never received. The next meeting will take place on 6th July at 7.30pm. There will be no main meeting in August. Meldreth Parish Council The official Minutes of Meldreth Parish Council are those signed in Public Meetings by the Chairman. They are available for public inspection from the Clerk and can also be accessed on the Parish Council website at www.meldreth-pc.org.uk or on the Parish Council notice board opposite the One Stop shop.

Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston SG8 6LT Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm By appointment at other times Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant (01763) 269928

parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk

Parish Councillors: Mrs C J Fallon

(01763) 262822

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

38


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39


Local Events in July Here is a selection of events happening nearby in July. To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Saturday & Sunday 1st/2nd; 8th/9th; 15th/16th & 22nd/23rd July Cambridge Open Studios Summer Art Event Fine art, photography, pottery, glass making, sculpture, textiles, jewellery and more. See pages 42-43 or www.camopenstudios.co.uk. Sunday 2nd July, 2.00pm to 5.30pm Open Garden: Clare College Fellows’ Garden, CB2 1TL One of the most famous gardens on the Cambridge Backs – herbaceous borders, fine specimen trees, tropical garden. Admission £4, children free. Home made teas and cakes. Proceeds to charity. Wednesday 5th July, 10.30am to 3.30pm Day visit to Lackford Lakes, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6HX Varied and interesting reserve with lakes, reedbeds, meadows and woodland. Visitor centre for refreshments; packed lunch suggested. Under 18s must be accompanied. Visit: www.wildlifebcn.org/events. Wednesday evenings 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th July, 6.15-7.15pm Sounds Green 2017, Cambridge University Botanic Garden, CB2 1JE A weekly celebration of summer and music. Refreshments available or take a picnic. Normal garden admission only. No booking needed. Garden closes at 8.00pm. For full details see www.botanic.cam.ac.uk. Thursday 6th July, 7.00pm Charity Concert in aid of Home-Start Cambridgeshire Jesus College Chapel, Jesus Lane, Cambridge CB5 8BL Works by Bach, Beethoven, Debussy and others in beautiful and historic chapel. Tickets (to include interval drink) £20 with Gift Aid donation; £16 without; students £10; in advance by phone (01223) 210202 or email: office.cambridge@homestartcambridgeshire.co.uk. May also be available on the door – please check before you go. Friday 7th to Sunday 9th July, at varying times Big Weekend, Parker’s Piece, Cambridge CB1 1NA A highlight of the Cambridge summer. Huge variety of free outdoor entertainment and activities including live music, sports zone, French market and on Sunday, community choirs and the Cambridge Mela, a celebration of Asian culture. For more details: www.visitcambridge.org/ whats-on/major-festivals-and-events/the-big-weekend. 40


Friday 7th to Sunday 9th July, at varying times Ely Folk Festival, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB6 2SH Weekend folk festival with top folk acts, onsite camping, real ale bar, Morris dancing displays, workshops etc. To book tickets phone (01284) 758000 or visit: www.theapex.co.uk/whats-on/2017/7. Full programme available from www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk. Friday 7th to Sunday 9th July, at varying times Wimpole History Festival, Arrington, Cambs SG8 0BW A weekend of history and heritage for the whole family. Features talks by top historians, debates, book signings, activities and performances. For programme visit: www.wimpolefestival.com. Tickets from: cambridgelivetrust.co.uk or phone (01223) 357851. Saturday 8th July, 7.45pm to 10.30pm (doors open 7.00pm) Charity Quiz and Raffle in aid of Cam Sight Frank Lee Leisure Centre, Addenbrooke’s Hospital CB2 0SN Entry £5 per person; teams of 6. Free parking at Long Road Sixth Form College from 7.00pm. Please contact Warren Wilson in advance on (01223) 420033 or email: warren@camsight.org.uk. For more information visit: www.camsight.org.uk or see frankleecentre.co.uk for venue information. Saturday 15th July, 8.30am Men’s Breakfast Meeting, Foxton Village Hall CB22 6RN Dr Sarah Perrett, who practises in Melbourn, will talk on ‘The Mystical Subject of Dentistry’. 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 15th and Sunday 16th July, 9.30am to 4.30pm Wood Green Antiques, Collectors and Vintage Weekend Kings Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester PE29 2NH Up to 150 stalls from Regency to Retro and Victorian to Vintage. Entry £3; accompanied under 16s free. Hot and cold refreshments. More information: www.antiques-atlas.com or phone 07772 349431. Friday 21st July, 10.15am to 12.00pm Muse Art Workshop, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge CB2 1RB Explore the world of Indian miniatures and create your own Indian inspired painting in gouache. £10. Reserve your place in advance: education@fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk or phone (01223) 332904. Compiled by John Crawforth 41


Cambridge Open Studios 2017 http://www.camopenstudios.co.uk This year’s event will feature an exciting range of exhibitions by 350 artists at 221 locations in Cambridge and surrounding areas. Artists of many different kinds will open their doors to the public over the first four weekends in July - 1/2, 8/9, 15/16 and 22/23. Among the huge range of specialisms will be fine art, photography, pottery, glass making, sculpture, illustration, textiles, jewellery and furniture making. As not all artists will exhibit every weekend it is important to check the website, or refer to the famous yellow guides. These guides will be widely available in local outlets including libraries, tourist information sites, galleries and selected shops. New for 2017 is an app that will make visit planning even easier. The app will be available to download at the end of June for Apple and Android. As usual, the distinctive yellow COS flags will be out to identify participating studios. And there is free entry to all of the Open Studios for visitors of all ages. Sonia Villiers, board member of Cambridge Open Studios, said: “Cambridge Open Studios is a rewarding and enriching initiative offering a really entertaining insight into the multi-faceted world of art. We would encourage visitors to call in to as many studios as possible, perhaps planning a route through a particular area incorporating lunch in one of the many local pubs, cafes and restaurants. It would make an inspiring day out for the whole family.”

Artists close to Meldreth who are opening their studios include the following: Jane Harvey - oil paintings, weekends 1 and 4 41 Ermine Way, Arrington SG8 0AG www.janeharveyartist.co.uk Janet Gammans - watercolour & acrylic paintings, all weekends 6 Greenford Close, Orwell SG8 5QA www.janetg.co.uk Sarah Rintoul - mosaics and sculpture, weekend 2 All Saints Church, Church Street, Harston CB22 7NP www.sarahrintoul.co.uk 42


Dan Walmsley - landscapes and seascapes, weekends 1 and 4 5 Wimpole Road, Great Eversden CB23 1HR www.danpatwalmsley@btinternet.com Justin Rowe - book sculpture, paper craft, weekends 1 & 2 6 Rectory Lane, Kingston CB23 2NL www.daysfalllieleaves.com Spindependence - diverse textile art (4 artists), weekends 1 & 2 Harlton Village Hall, Coach Drive, Harlton CB23 1EN www.spindependence.com William Garfit—oil paintings, limited edition prints, weekends 1 & 2 Georgina Joseph - small oil paintings, weekends 1 & 2 Both at The Old Rectory, High Street, Harlton CB23 1ES www.williamgarfit.co.uk This is just a small selection, so please see www.camopenstudios.co.uk, the yellow guide or the app for further details. Cambridge Open Studios

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Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch Protecting Yourself from Cyber Fraud On 12th May this year, a number of large organisations across the world, including parts of the NHS, were affected by a "ransomware" cyber attack. Ransomware is a type of malicious software ("malware") that locks the files on a computer, only unlocking them in return for a ransom payment. Until the ransom is paid, the computer is unusable and the information on it is as good as lost. However, the malware has to get onto the computer in the first place; this is often done using so-called "phishing" emails. Fraudsters will create authentic looking emails purporting to be from genuine companies, or even someone you know. The emails are designed to infect your devices with malware or to steal sensitive information such as your financial details or passwords. Protect yourself: ⇒ Attachments: don't open the attachments in any unsolicited emails you receive. ⇒ Links: don't click on the links within any unsolicited emails you receive. ⇒ Your information: never respond to emails that ask for your personal or financial details. Other fraudsters are taking advantage of the worry caused by the ransomware cyber attack. People are being tempted to call a false Microsoft "help" number advertised on a pop-up window. The window may say that the victim has been affected by ransomware. One victim granted the fraudsters remote access to their PC after being convinced there wasn’t sufficient anti-virus protection. The fraudsters then installed Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool, which is actually free, and took £320 as payment. Protect yourself: ⇒ Don't call numbers from pop-up messages; Microsoft’s messages on your PC will never include a telephone number. ⇒ Always be wary of unsolicited calls; Microsoft or someone on their behalf will never call you. ⇒ If you’re unsure of a caller’s identity, hang up. 44


⇒ Never allow remote access to your computer. ⇒ Never divulge passwords or pin numbers. Don't forget the trusted contacts in Meldreth who you can talk to about a possible scam: Graham

(01763) 260358

Peter

(01763) 260323

Linda

(01763) 261405

Tim

(01763) 262801

Anyone can report a scam to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk. The Cambridge Police website for reporting a variety of issues is: www.contactcambspolice.uk. For more information on Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Graham Borgonon on 01763 260358. Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch

MM Deliverers Your copy of Meldreth Matters drops through your letter box courtesy of a member of our dedicated team of 28 stalwarts who deliver the magazine every month. They range in age from 9 years old to over 80. Without the deliverers the production of the magazine would be pointless. The turnover of deliverers is very slow, some having served for in excess of 25 years. But this month we say farewell and thank you to Barbara Chalkley. Having delivered the magazine in Bell Close for over ten years, Barbara has decided to hang up her deliverer’s boots. In her place we welcome Linda Winter to our team. So all of us concerned with the production of Meldreth Matters wish to say 'very many thanks' to both Barbara and Linda. Ken McLean 45


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Volunteering Opportunities National Volunteers’ Week in June highlighted the many opportunities that exist in our community for volunteering and the difference volunteers can make. If you have some time to spare, why not consider helping out one of our village groups? See www.meldrethhistory.org.uk/category/village_clubs_and_groups for further information. Alternatively, have a look on the Royston Volunteer Centre’s website, http://www.roystonvolunteer.org.uk/ or consider one of the positions with Cambridgeshire Constabulary below. Cambridgeshire Constabulary Voluntary roles include Special Constables, Independent Custody Visitors, Police Cadets and Police Service Volunteers. The force currently has about 240 Specials. In the 12 months from April last year to March this year, Specials worked more than 8600 shifts in Cambridgeshire, amounting to just over 56,000 hours of duty. Specials support regular officers over a whole range of policing activity, from road policing, football matches and emergency response to major crime and other specialist areas such as domestic abuse and the rural crime team. Like the regular colleagues they work alongside, Specials are sworn in by a magistrate and have the same powers by law, including power of arrest. They must commit a minimum of four hours a week to their duties. Police and Crime Commissioner Jason Ablewhite said: “Volunteers play a hugely important role in keeping our communities safe. The Chief Constable and I both recognise the enormous contribution our volunteers make, and are constantly impressed by their level of commitment, professionalism and determination. “Whilst we recognise that people are able to make different levels of commitment, whatever they give makes a difference and is hugely valued.” For more information on becoming a Special and how to apply, visit http://www.cambs.police.uk/recruitment/specials/. For more information on other volunteering opportunities, visit http://www.cambs-police.co.uk/recruitment/volunteers/. 47


Your pet's pearly whites! When I first started veterinary nursing in the mid 1990s, small animal dentistry was probably the area of least concern veterinary wise, both for vets, and their clients. It was not unusual to see elderly dogs and cats with their teeth literally hanging by a thread and with breath so bad it could strip the wallpaper from the walls! I'm very pleased to say that although we do still see the odd case like that, these days it’s really much better and dentistry is an every day part of our industry. With advances in techniques and diagnostic tools we are able to diagnose and treat your pets’ teeth with similar procedures to those used in human dentists. Root canals, fillings and crowns are all something that can be offered and surgical extractions are possible now in general practice, with the use of veterinary dental x-rays we really can do a proper job! Inside the tooth is a pulp cavity that contains a nerve. That nerve is incredibly painful if its exposed for any reason. Cats can get lesions in their teeth that eat away at the tooth and expose the nerve and dogs who chew on tennis balls, antlers, bones, sticks or stones can wear down their teeth causing a painful exposure, sometimes of numerous teeth! Traumatic fractures from falls or accidents can break teeth off, again exposing that sensitive pulp and dental disease can cause really painful gum inflammation and deep pockets around the tooth where the gums become unattached. It is a common myth that all dry food cleans the teeth. This is not entirely true and although a dry food would be better than a sticky wet food, there are only a handful of diets actually proven to help dental health. Dental chews can help, some are much better than others though, and be careful with the added calories! Home brushing is the gold standard to remove plaque, the bacterial layer you get before the hard tartar or calculus forms on the tooth. The only way to get tartar removed is by a professional scale and polish which should be performed at least annually, after which you can start the home care. Some pets have teeth which are missing or crowded. These should always be x-rayed. Crowded teeth can cause a lot of discomfort due to tartar accumulation and missing teeth could be truly missing, or unerupted. Unerupted teeth can cause a cyst within the jaw bone that can weaken it and in bad cases cause fractures! My own dog has a 48


couple of unerupted teeth sitting under the gum line and we x-ray her jaw annually to ensure they are not causing a problem. The other thing worth mentioning, and something that we see an awful lot of in puppies, is lingually displaced deciduous teeth. These are the “baby” teeth which due to poor conformation of the jaw have erupted at the wrong angle. This can affect the route the adult teeth take coming through and you can end up with trauma to the mouth where the lower or upper teeth are rubbing on the opposite gum. If you're buying a puppy please, please get this checked and confirmed before bringing him home, as the operation to fix it is lengthy and expensive! Most practices will offer a free dental check with a veterinary nurse, and booster vaccinations are always a good time to get the teeth checked, but aim for a scale and polish at least annually and you won’t go far wrong. Jo Brown, RVN

Meldreth Futures Working Group We meet every two months, with our last meeting being on 28th June. However, we were in contact with Meldreth Parish Council in May and agreed with their decision to give £719 of Solar money to Meldreth Tennis Club towards equipment for junior tennis [see page 34]. The Tennis Club has done so well to raise the funds for the refurbishment of the tennis courts and we felt it was appropriate that the Parish Council added £719 to the amount they are already giving. Please send in your ideas for Solar Funding to our Parish Clerk for us to consider. All ideas will be considered and help will be given to complete the application form. Joan Gane on behalf of Meldreth Futures Working Group 49


Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address

Detail

Parish Council Recommend

24 North End, S/1423/17/FL

Single storey rear extension and brick cladding to original building

The Parish Council recommend Approval with no comments

Malton Workshop, S/1473/17/FL

The proposal is for the change of use for the whole site to B1/B8 storage/light industrial building. There is provision for new parking areas included in the design

The Parish Council recommend No Recommendation with comments. 'It was noted that car park spaces have increased from 22 to 62, an extra 40 spaces which seems not in line with the number of employees'

113 North End, Fell two multi stemmed TPO S/1640/17/TP willows on land next to 113 North End along the road towards Shepreth.

11 Whitecroft Road, S/1365/17/FL

The Parish Council would like the two willow trees to be high pollarded and not felled. They would then match the willow trees on the opposite side of the road.

Proposed replacement porch The Parish Council recommend 'Approval' with no comments

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

SCDC Decisions Reference and Address

Decision

64 Whitecroft Road, S/3517/16/LD

Has been refused a Certificate of Lawful Proposed Use or Development. The proposal is not in accordance with Class E of Sch 2, (1) of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) England Order 2015.

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 50


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Retirement - Opening up a World of Opportunities Have you ever heard of the U3A? Does the University of the Third Age mean anything to you? If not, then let me enlighten you. It’s a network of groups offering learning and social opportunities for people who are retired or semi-retired. No, it’s not about bingo or gossiping; it’s about keeping up to date, extending your horizons and stretching both mind and body. Started in 1973, there are now 1,000 U3As across the UK – low-cost learning cooperatives which draw upon the knowledge, experience and skills of their own members to organise and provide interest groups. The teachers learn and the learners teach. U3As can be as small as 12 and as large as 2000; Melbourn & District U3A has nearly 500 members with 30-odd groups devoted to current affairs debates, computing, yoga, walking, quizzes, poetry, bridge, badminton, science, croquet … the list goes on. Every month we have a speaker; recent ones have covered Police dog training, the responsibilities of a magistrate, the causes and treatments for stress, and walks around London. There are outings too; how do the Isle of Wight, Stratford on Avon, the gardens at RHS Wisley, Airbus Space Systems and the Mars lander sound? National events encompass lectures at the Royal Institution and the Royal Society, talks and concerts in Birmingham, London, Cambridge etc. And there are summer schools at a number of venues, in a wide range of topics to stretch the mind. U3A Membership costs only £13 a year, speaker meetings are free and group get togethers cost only a couple of pounds plus something for coffee. We meet mostly at Melbourn Village College, All Saints Community Hall, the Hub or Foxton Village Hall, while some smaller groups meet in each others’ homes. We all recognise that retirement is often accompanied by challenges – reduced income, poorer health, less social interaction – and the U3A can really help by keeping our minds and bodies active. But the most striking effect is the learning, fun and laughter it brings into our lives – once again we are busy with lots of choices and a group of new friends. So if you find yourself at a loose end since retiring, and if U3A sounds like something you might enjoy, come for a taster session and meet a few people at a speaker meeting at Melbourn Village 52


College. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month, with tea and coffee served at 2.45pm, and the talk from 3.00 to 4.00pm; come alone or bring a friend. Or you can visit our website at https://u3asites.org.uk/melbourn, or ring me on (01763) 260938 or email maureenjmoody@ntlworld.com. It would be really good to meet you. Maureen Moody

Spotted Flycatchers Do you have this increasingly rare bird breeding in your garden? Last year many Cambridgeshire community and parish newsletters, magazines and websites helped with a county-wide survey of Spotted Flycatchers. These are attractive little migrant birds which are summer visitors to village gardens and churchyards. Although they breed with us, they spend ten months of the year travelling between here and their wintering grounds in Southern Africa. This is an increasingly dangerous journey for them, and sadly they are in deep decline. Widespread losses amounted to a 50% decline during 1995-2010, continuing an 90% decline since 1970. Only some fifty pairs remain breeding in Cambridgeshire, so it's now quite a rare bird, but most rural villages still have a pair or two. The Cambridgeshire Bird Club is again running a survey this year to find and monitor nesting pairs, and it's almost certain that there will be additional pairs in our villages of which we are not aware. Do you have flycatchers in your garden? Please let the Bird Club know. Please email spofl@cambridgebirdclub.org.uk with any information you have, including records of single birds anytime between now and September.. See also http://www.cambridgebirdclub.org.uk/ spofl2017.html for details of the project and how to send in your records. Michael Holdsworth Secretary, Cambridgeshire Bird Club 53


Notes from a Small Garden June is turning out to be a wonderful month for gardens and the roses in particular are doing really well around here. The only snag has been the wind, which bashed several plants, including the white and blue Campanula Persicifolia, in my garden. Luckily I pruned several shrubs this spring by taking out about 25 older stems from the bottoms near the middle of the shrubs. They have provided excellent stakes for those plants which are in danger of falling over. The winter prunings from the fuschias are also really useful for staking the pea family. This year as we go to press, to my great joy I am picking a bunch of sweet peas every three days. Jim gave me the plants in March. He had set the seed in November and had hardened them off in February/ March. I planted them out straight away and was rewarded with healthy plants climbing up the poles in April. The wind we have just had in the second week of June will often carry the fungal spores of potato/tomato blight. Pick off any discoloured leaves you see at once and you might be lucky not to lose your outdoor tomato plants. Unfortunately, once blight is present and progresses, it becomes more resistant to biofungicide and fungicides. Gardens in North End seem particularly prone to blight, probably because they are more exposed than those in Chiswick End for example. July and August can be months where there is less colour in the borders. This is where dahlias and phloxes come into their own. If you want your plants from the aster family and phloxes to have a longer flowering season, try the Chelsea Chop. Take the tips of one stem in three down by three inches and see what happens. My advisors have warned me to do this to one plant only in the first instance in case you lose most of the flowers. It’s a little late in the season to do this now: it should be done at Chelsea time, hence the name Chelsea Chop! Jobs for July: Deadhead perennials to encourage repeat flowering Watch out for clematis wilt. It is caused by a fungus – I have in the past rescued plants with fungicide Water pots thoroughly Pick courgettes before they become marrows! 54


Five of us visited Gotha Gardens near Ashwell recently. It’s a nice garden in the making with delicious cakes and biscuits! And a message from Jim; beware the “Box Hedge Hotel” for slugs and snails! The Veg Club Plus meeting this month will be at 5.30pm on 11th July at Jim and Jane’s house, 1 Bell Close. Good gardening from us both, Julie and Jim juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

Arthur Rank Hospice: Bubble Rush 5K Bubble Rush 5K set to return to Huntingdon’s Riverside Park this summer. Arthur Rank Hospice is inviting you to sign up to Bubble Rush 5k which will be taking place to raise funds for the Charity at Huntingdon’s Riverside Park on Sunday 16th July. The family friendly event attracted lots of local media and TV coverage last summer and was enthusiastically received and talked about by all those who took part. Carly Love, Inpatient Unit Matron at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, who took part last year with her five year old son, adds: “There’s nothing else like it round here and the best thing was that Archie and I could do it together. He totally loved it: I carried him through some of the deeper bubble stations but he had his light sabre and was slicing through the bubbles as we went! I’d say it’s the kind of 5K which anyone can do whatever their age. ” ‘Bubblers’ are invited to accessorise with colourful tutus, sunglasses, wings and wigs, before running, jogging, walking, dancing, hopping, or push chair’ing through five foam stations, which whoosh out a fantastic 30 cubic metres of colourful foam per minute. Please visit http://www.arhc.org.uk/bubble-rush-registration.asp or call (01223) 675777 soon to register and avoid disappointment! Dawn Easby PR & Communications Officer Arthur Rank Hospice Charity 55


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Fire & Rescue Service We welcome the longer, lighter nights and the opportunity to enjoy summer days and nights in the garden. When powering up your BBQs and putting out the garden furniture for the summer season, be sure to take note of our top tips below to ensure you have a fun and safe summer in the garden. ⇒ If cooking outdoors, always check barbecues over after winter storage, keep them on level ground and ensure they are sited away from sheds, fences, overhanging foliage and property ⇒ Keep children and garden games well away from the cooking area and never leave the barbecue unattended ⇒ If you have a bonfire, build it well away from buildings, tents or other flammable objects and make sure it has been properly extinguished when you leave ⇒ When out in the countryside, extinguish cigarettes properly and dispose of them responsibly – never throw a lit cigarette into a field or wooded area ⇒ Don’t forget to stay safe around our county’s waterways and if you see someone in trouble in water, call 999 immediately with clear details of your location ⇒ When out camping or using a tent, never use candles inside or nearby and always discourage smoking nearby. Never cook inside a tent. For the latest news, incidents and safety advice, or to contact us, log on to www.cambsfire.gov.uk. Sign up to email alerts and find us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook. Cambridge Fire & Rescue Service

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

John Rogger (01763) 260809 L. Pocknell—(01763) 261432 (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Nikki & Julie 07599 292327 (01763) 232855; www.melwood.btck.co.uk www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A WI

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

Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club

Shirley Lambert (01223) 207888 Janet Pope (01763) 248342 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

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

(01763) 220626; www.meldrethchurch.org.uk (01763) 261569 Peter Hinton—(01763) 262045 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk

Baby & Toddler Group Pre-School Primary School

Rosalind Wing - 07432 150721 07518 173653; www.meldrethPreschool.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Parish Council District Councillor District Council Offices

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

Councils & Govt.

Photographic Group

Sport

(01763) 262199 Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358 (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Sherida Richards—(01763) 262512 Paul Ray—(01763) 260304

Church

Community Access Point Litter Picker Neighbourhood Watch One Stop Village Hall Bookings Village Hall Chairman

Childn.

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Village Directory

County Councillor County Council Offices MP

58


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; Cover & Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; 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 ....................................56 Affordable Plumbing ......................16 Art of Clean ......................................7 Art of Clean Wood .........................56 B2B Automotive .............................46 Benjamin and Fredericks .................29 Cam Valley Orchards .......................7 Cambourne Self Storage .................46 Cambridge Roofers .........................16 Cambridge Sunblinds ......................26 CHS Day Centre .............................46 CHS Group .....................................16 Coton Electrical ..............................19 The Country Store ..........................20 CP Podiatry ....................................26 Ely Design Group ...........................19 Eternit Sports and Social Club ...........7 Four Counties Tree Services ............39 Gilhooly ..........................................43 Handyman ......................................32 Home Foot Care .............................51 iPlaster ............................................56 Keyholes Driving School ............Cover Lawn Partners ................................26 The Letting Centre .....................Cover Little Hands Nursery School ...........29

Mandy Thornton Counselling .........56 Melbourn Flooring ....................Cover Melbourn Village College (1) ...........51 Melbourn Village College (2) ...........39 Meldreth Landscapes ........................4 Meldreth Plant Hire ........................57 Meridian Lawncare .........................20 Michael Easton Personal Trainer ......4 Moncraft Computers ......................29 Nancy Foster Footcare ....................32 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service32 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement ......39 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ................29 Quicksilver Yoga ............................46 Reed Autos .....................................20 Reflections Hair Studio ...................56 Richard Burns Electrician ..................4 Rod’s PC Support ......................Cover Royston Fencing .............................32 Shelford Energy ..............................20 Slimming World ..............................51 Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ...............7 Summit Landscapes ...........................4 Village Cycles ...................................4 Village Garden Services .....................7 Walkers Partnership Solicitors .........19 60


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


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