Meldreth Matters, July 2023

July 2023

Inthisissue … A Meldreth Garden Auction of Lots and Promises

Shepreth Spitfires

Events include …

Pete Tucker Memorial Car Show

Village Hall Film Night

£1,000 welcome bonus!

Earn from £11per hour

No experience necessary

Day Support Workers wanted Night Support Workers wanted Giftware

Rewarding work that changes lives

Opening times: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5.30pm

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.

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Copy should be submitted by email where possible, to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Alternatively, it may be delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT Tel. (01763) 268428

The Editor reserves the right to withhold from publication or to shorten if necessary, any article or letter sent to her.

This month’s cover picture: Footpath 6 along the River Mel.

Photograph by Kathryn Betts

P.D. Property Services

Editorial

Welcome to the July Issue of Meldreth Matters.

After so many events in the village last month, things have quietened down a little for July with just a car show (page 7) and the Village Hall Film night (back cover) being the only public events in the village this month.

Online, however, it’s a different story as Meldreth Matters launches our Auction of Lots and Promises . We have received about 50 donations so far, with more to come, and would like to thank all the individuals and businesses that have contributed. Our first lots will be online by the time you are reading this and you will be able to begin bidding on the first items to be listed at 9.00am on Monday 3rd July. Items will continue to be added throughout the summer, so please keep checking and bidding! Have a look at our auction page now: visit www.jumblebee.co.uk/meldrethmatters or scan the QR code.

Full details are given on pages 4-5 of this issue. The auction is open to everyone, so please spread the word amongst friends and family.

Kathryn

Meldreth Scarecrow Festival

Thank you to all who took part in the Scarecrow Festival. It was more of a trail in the end, but all of the entries were excellent and I hope people enjoyed the lovely weather while walking around our village!

Freddie Mercury won the public vote, with other prizes going to M'Elvis, Ed and Nikki and Sam Ryder. A big thank you to the prize sponsors: Etex, Compton Hardwick Accountants, One Stop and the Cambridge Juice Company.

Email Meldrethscarecrow@gmail.com if you would like to get involved next time.

Roger Faires

Meldreth Matters Auction of Lots and Promises

www.jumblebee.co.uk/meldrethmatters

As you may have read in recent issues of Meldreth Matters, we are holding an online auction this summer to raise funds for the magazine.

Meldreth Matters is produced and distributed entirely by volunteers (none of whom claim expenses) so we pay only for printing costs.

By holding this auction, we hope to raise enough money to secure the future of the magazine and to ensure that we can continue to provide local information free of charge to villagers every month.

The first items in the auction are available to view online now and bidding will begin on

Monday 3rd July at 9.00am

Visit our auction site at www.jumblebee.co.uk/meldrethmatters or scan the QR code

The auction site is straightforward to use and payment is made online using a secure payment system

For the latest updates you can also follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meldrethmatters) and Instagram (meldreth.matters)

Items continue to be donated and will be added to our auction site throughout the summer. If you would like to offer an item or service for our auction, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. (Pre-owned items may be donated but need to be in excellent condition.)

Meldreth Matters Auction of Lots and Promises

Bidding on the first lots will open at 9.00am on Monday 3rd July

They will include:

1. Knebworth House: family ticket worth £46

2. Bundle of five “perennial plants”

3. Davey’s Butchers: £50 BBQ Pack

4. 12 hours’ use of a pressure washer

5. Station Garage, Meldreth: voucher for an MOT

6. 2 x 30 minute Italian conversation sessions

7. A week in a cottage in Anglesey

8. Set of pre-owned golf clubs

9. Beaded tealight holder

10. Walking Tour of Cambridge for up to seven people with Terrible Tours

11. A 30 minute flight in a light aircraft

12. Use of a beach hut in Wells, Norfolk for one day

Lots will finish at different times, so please check each individual lot for the start/end times.

Other lots will be added on a regular basis throughout the summer so please keep visiting the site to check for the latest items. You never know, you may get a bargain!

To view the available items and make your bids, visit www.jumblebee.co.uk/meldrethmatters or scan the QR code on the previous page.

Jumblebee will take 5% (plus card fees) from the money we raise but these charges are not passed on to bidders.

We would like to thank the following who have so far donated items to our auction: British Aerobatic Academy, John & Hilary Crawforth, Lesley Farbridge, Bev & Jerry Cottrell, Richard Burns Electrician, Cilla Course, Arts Picturehouse Cambridge, The Plough Shepreth, Terrible Tours, Hilary & David Marsh, Terry Dash, La Pergola Italian Restaurant, Lesley Pemberton, Christopher van Essen, Davey’s Butchers, Jane & Sean O’Hagan, The Picture Framer, Knebworth Park, Clare Silver, Melbourn Autos, Clare & Derek Harrison, Station Garage, Marlene Wittkopp, The Chequers Fowlmere, John Richards, Gerry Weatherhead, Kathryn & Ralph Betts, Michaela Vaux, Shepreth Wildlife Park.

Thank you too, to those donors who wish to remain anonymous.

Items continue to be donated, so please check our auction page regularly, follow us on Facebook and Instagram and look out for our update in the August issue of Meldreth Matters.

The Meldreth Matters Team

MELDRETH MATHS TUTOR

Contact:

Fully DBS Checked

Pete Tucker Memorial Car Show

This will be held on Sunday 2nd July from 10.30am onwards at Eternit Sports and Social Club. On display will be both British and American classic vehicles and motorcycles. Entry is free. There will be food and drink, live music and a fantastic raffle! Donations to charity will be welcome. For further information visit our Facebook page - simply Google Pete Tucker Memorial Car Show - or call me on 07756 494334.

Alan Williams

For July’s film please see the back cover of this issue of Meldreth Ma ers

Melbourn Hub

www.melbournhub.co.uk

We’re so happy the summer finally arrived and have been enjoying the sunshine with our lovely customers at the Hub. Here’s what’s coming up in July. Do pop in to our cafe, library or one of the various events we’re running! All of our events can be seen on our website - www.melbournhub.co.uk

Weekly Events

Every Thursday - Primary Care Network 10.00-11.30am

Drop-in session providing advice & support on health & wellbeing

Every Friday - Children's Story time 10.00-10.30am

For under 5s. No need to book!

Monthly Events

Thursday 6th July - Carers’ Café - 2.00-3.30pm

A safe place for carers to come along to chat freely and enjoy a tea/coffee and cake. No need to book, just drop in.

Wednesday 26th July - Monthly Lunch Club 12.15-1.45pm

Meet others for a social lunch together. Booking essential - contact the Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@melbournhub.com.

Special for July

Saturday 15th July - Spooky Stories and Heavenly Hot Dogs 10.30am

A morning with author Sian Mole for kids age 8-13. Tickets £5 including a hot dog and a copy of the book, “Trapped”. Booking essential - contact the Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@melbournhub.com.

Wimpole Experience Design Consultation

We are making plans to improve the visitor experience at Wimpole and would love to know what you think to make sure Wimpole is an even better asset for the local community. Representatives from Wimpole will be at the following consultations to tell you about our visitor experience projects, answer your questions and gather your feedback. Refreshments will be provided.

Monday 17th July, 6.00-7.30pm: Petersfield C of E Primary School, Orwell

Wednesday 19th July, 6.00pm-7.30pm: Wimpole Village Hall

Anne French

Senior Volunteering and Community Officer National Trust Wimpole Estate

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole

Linsey Craike on behalf of Melbourn Hub

Richard Burns

ELECTRICIAN

For installation, repair or advice please call Tel: 01763 263 121

Mob: 07958 028 729

sockets@richardburnselectrician.co.uk

Part P approved Compliant to BS7671

Certified installer Based in Meldreth

Specialists in made to measure window coverings:

Beautifully made and locally produced Curtains and Roman Blinds

Suppliers of Sanderson, William Morris, Harlequin, Scion, Prestigious Textiles

Roller, Vertical, Pleated, Wood, PVC and Aluminium Venetian Blinds

Contemporary window dressings: Plantation shutters and Awnings

Experts in home automated motorised solutions

FREE- NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS. FIND US AT Phillimore Garden Centre, Cambridge Road, Melbourn. SG8 6EY

Tel: 01763 263399

www.sageblinds.co.uk

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Sat 9am-1pm

Things to Do in July

Here are some things happening in July in the local area. To let us know about future events or activities please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Saturday & Sunday 1st/2nd, 8th/9th, 15th/16th and 22nd/23rd July

Cambridge Open Studios, at varying locations

An opportunity to visit working studios and buy art direct. Over 500 artists, craftspeople and designer-makers working throughout Cambridgeshire - painters, jewellers, ceramicists, sculptors, textile artists, photographers and many others. There will be a studio in Meldreth this year at 21 Marvell Green, which will be open for the first two weekends in July. See the advert in this issue of Meldreth Matters for details. For the full Open Studios programme visit www.camopenstudios.org.

Saturday 1st to Saturday 8th July at various times/locations

The Shelford Feast, Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire CB22 5LZ

With its origins in medieval feasting, a festival week of music, comedy, drama, food and drink in Great Shelford. Over £346,000 donated to local good causes since 1994. For full programme and ticketing arrangements please visit www.shelfordfeast.co.uk.

Saturday 8th July, 7.00pm for 7.30pm

Puddings and Prosecco Night

All Saints Community Hall, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 6DX

Indulge yourself in an evening of delectable puddings and sparkling drinks. Nonalcoholic options available too. Tickets £15 from Pat Smith on (01763)262575 or Kimmi Crosby 07976 228377. Funds in aid of All Saints Church, Melbourn. NB Likely to sell out so please book early.

Saturday 8th July, 7.30pm

Orwell Singers Summer Concert

Orwell Village Hall, 32-66 High Street, Orwell SG8 5QN

With a programme ranging from Abba to Schubert to Tallis with a bit of fun along the way, there is something to suit all musical tastes here. Tickets £10 (on the door) to include a buffet. New choir members always welcome. For information on the concert or the choir, please contact jdavidmarsh@gmail.com or telephone (01763) 261443.

Sunday 9th July, 12noon to 4.00pm

King’s College Fellows’ and Provost’s Open Garden

King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1ST

Fine Victorian garden in a stunning setting. Rare specimen trees, woodland walk, herbaceous borders, rose pergola, kitchen garden, new wildflower meadow and orchard. Admission £6, children free. Home-made teas.

Monday 10th July, 11.00am to 2.00pm

Trumpington Meadows Nature Reserve Monthly Meander - Butterflies

Grantchester Road, Trumpington, Cambridge CB2 9LH

Trumpington Meadows is home to 28 species of butterfly; join this guided walk of 2-3 miles to see how many you can spot. Bring binoculars if you have them and a picnic lunch. Tickets £10 per adult (non-member), £8 (member). Booking essential - email TrumpingtonMeadows@wildlifebcn.org. Meet at Byron’s Pool car park.

Wednesday 12th July, 6.15pm to 8.30pm (music begins 6.30pm)

Sounds Green - Honey and The Bear

Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE

An evening of British folk music from singer songwriter duo Jon Hart and Lucy Sampson. Set on the main lawn, visitors can relax and enjoy informal and fun live music on a (hopefully!) warm summer evening. Street food, drink and ice cream available to buy. Tickets: Adults £7.20 from www.botanic.cam.ac.uk. NB Sounds Green series takes place every Wednesday evening in July.

Friday 14th July, 8.00pm to 10.00pm

Royston Arts Society - Street Scene in Pastels

Market Hill Rooms, Fish Hill, Priory Lane, Royston SG8 9DW

John Tookey will demonstrate how to draw with pastels. Non-members welcome; £3 to include tea/coffee. Please pay at door, no need to pre-book.

Tuesday 18th July, 12.15pm to 2.15pm

Home-Start Literary Lunch with Rachel Meller

The Old Bull Inn, Royston SG8 9AW

Hosted by poet-in-residence, Jude Simpson, Home-Start’s next literary lunch features Rachel Meller talking about her first book, ‘The Box with the Sunflower Clasp’. Tickets £15 per person, to include buffet lunch. Email events@hsrsc.org.uk, call (01763) 262262 or visit www.hsrsc.org.uk.

Friday 21st to Monday 24th July, 10.00am to 4.00pm

Festival of Archaeology

Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Royston, Cambridgeshire SG8 0BW

Could there have been a medieval house pre-dating the present Hall? Come and watch archaeology in action as test pits are excavated in Wimpole’s parterre. For younger ones there will be sand digging pits. No booking required. Free event but normal National Trust admission charges apply for the venue.

Saturday 29th July, 11.30am to 3.30pm (stall set-up from 10.30am)

Summer Fete (with raffle at 3.00pm)

Orwell Village Hall, 32-66, High Street, Orwell SG8 5QN

Organised by fund-raiser and campaigner, Kirsten Bailey, this event aims to raise much-needed extra funding for Ward 3 at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where she was treated following a stroke. Stalls are £10 a table, £5 for a charity table. Please email: hospitalmystery@yahoo.com if you would like to have one.

Compiled by John Crawforth

Duxford Saturday Workshop Taster Morning: Saturday 1st July

www.duxfordsaturdayworkshop.org.uk

Would you or your child like to play a musical instrument, but aren’t sure which one? If so, Duxford Saturday Workshop Taster Morning is for you!

At this event, experienced tutors and players will help you to have hands-on, practical experience of several instruments. They are available to answer your questions and to help you to decide which instrument is the one for you. Instruments included in the Taster Morning are violin, viola, cello, flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, cornet, trombone, guitar and ukulele.

This is completely free. There is no need to book in advance; just arrive and have a go! The Taster Morning will take place at Duxford Primary School, St. John’s Street, Duxford CB22 4RA on Saturday 1st July from 11.00am to 12.15pm.

If you decide to join us for the next Workshop year, beginning in September, you would be most welcome. If you need an instrument, items can often be borrowed for the year from our hire stock at low cost (currently £25 per year), meaning that it is possible to gain tuition and experience of playing for a very modest outlay indeed.

The Workshop takes place at Duxford School on Saturday mornings during term time and is very much about enjoying music-making in a supportive and fun environment. All ages, abilities and experience levels are welcome, and we offer both ensembles and tuition to cater for a wide range of musical interests and tastes.

For further information, please visit www.duxfordsaturdayworkshop.org.uk or email director@duxfordsaturdayworkshop.org.uk.

Peter Howarth Duxford Workshop Management Team phowarth@businessdevgroup.com

Things for Children and Families To Do

Saturday 1st July, 12.00pm - 4.00pm

Royston Historical Pageant, Priory Memorial Gardens SG8 9DX

A celebration of all things historical including archery, axe throwing, juggling, story telling. Free. See www.roystoneventspartnership.com.

Saturday 8th July, 12.00pm - 5.00pm

Barley Flower Show, The Plaistow, Barley

Refreshments, dog show, egg throwing, fire engine, glitter tattoos, live music, competitions. See www.barley-village.co.uk.

Friday 14th July, 10.30am - 11.15pm or 11.30am - 12.15pm

Animal Tails, Museum of Zoology, Cambridge

For ages 2 -5. Solve the monkey puzzle and learn more about monkeys through stories and play. Book on www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Saturday 22nd July, 11.00am - 4.00pm

Family Fun Day (a 40th anniversary celebration)

The British Racing School, Snailwell Road, Newmarket CB8 7NU

Try being a jockey on the racehorse simulator, watch the Shetland pony Grand National, show jumping and a dog show. Refreshments, face painting, bouncy castle, crafts, pony rides. Adults £5, parking £2. See www.brs.org.uk.

Wednesday 26th July, 10.00am - 12.00pm

Wild in the Woods: Dens and Sticks

Cambourne Nature Reserve off School Lane CB23 6BJ

Activities such as den building, stick throwing, setting trails. Recommended for accompanied children aged 7 - 11. Book on www.wildlifebcn.org. £7.50 per child.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th July, 10.00am - 4.30pm

Saxon Fair, Cross Green, Ely CB7 5XS

Celebrate 1350 years of Ely’s foundation by finding out about life in Saxon England. Listen to stories and watch entertainments including spear dances. There will be stalls demonstrating and selling traditional crafts. Free entry. www.elycathedral.org.

By Wednesday 2nd August

Royston Kite Festival design competition - entries due Unit 6, Valley Farm, Station Road, Meldreth SG8 6JP

Design a kite on A4 paper or card and take/post to the Home-Start office by 2nd August. Age categories - under 3, 3 to 5, 6 to 8 and 9 to 11. Remember to put the child’s name and age, parent’s name and phone number on the back.

Good Luck! The Festival is on Sunday 6th August on Therfield Heath.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

Shepreth Spitfires

www.sheprethspitfires.co.uk

In celebration of King Charles’ coronation in April 2023 Shepreth Spitfires organised a football tournament for all age groups that took place at Shepreth Recreation Ground. The tournament was a huge success and well supported by players, parents and the local community. All the children that took part were awarded a commemorative trophy depicting King Charles’ coronation.

In May 2023 it was our annual end of season presentation day. A huge thanks to Eternit Sports and Social Club for hosting this event.

Earlier in the year Shepreth Spitfires organised a children’s design competition; the winning design was won by Sara. The company ‘Touch of Ginger’, bespoke gift and trophy makers, produced the design and Sara’s initials were placed on each baton. This company have a long history of supporting youth football and young designers. They have been responsible for producing the Rugby World Cup and Olympic Games volunteers’ batons. ‘Touch of Ginger’ are based in Shepreth. All of the Shepreth Spitfire players were presented with one of these batons. A celebration of all teams was enjoyed by all.

Our under 8’s team won their league at a 5-a-side tournament at Cambridge Abbey Road Stadium.

Please contact Shepreth Spitfires Football Club if your child would be interested in joining our friendly club. Please visit our website, www.sheprethspitfires.co.uk or call 07510 175370.

Julie A Wilson

Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group

We are a small friendly group which meets every month except December, at either ASCH Melbourn or Holy Trinity meeting room in Meldreth. Our meetings commence at 7.45pm and usually last about one and a half hours. New members are always welcome.

We begin with any notices followed by the Women’s Group prayer. There is either a speaker or some in-house entertainment, followed by coffee and biscuits and the opportunity to chat. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses and we are also able to donate to the charity pot. The charity we are supporting this year is Camsight.

Our June meeting was a music evening in Meldreth where members had the opportunity to bring along their personal choices. Our meeting on 25th July will also be held in Meldreth and will be a talk on archery by Pat Ames.

If you would like any information about the group, receive a programme or would like a lift to a meeting, please telephone one of the committee. They are Diane Blundell (01763) 221415, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Mary Bailey (01763) 220171, Mary Purdy (01763) 260864 and Angela Leach (01763) 262793.

Angela Leach

All Saints’ Church Fundraising Group

This group consists of Mary Bailey, Diane Blundell, Kimmi Crosby, Pauline Hay, Angela Leach, Trevor Margereson, Avril Mellor and Pat Smith and we thank you for supporting the events we are running and ask you to bring along your friends and family too.

In July we are holding a Puddings & Prosecco evening (details on page 10). On 3rd September we will have Dahlia Day, for which tickets will be available closer to the time. On 7th October we have a concert in the Church by Joe Rose (again a ticketed event) then on 4th November we have our main fundraising event with the return of The Christmas Fayre, held in the Church and the Community Hall. We will again be having a jewellery stall and as cleaning and pricing takes place over several weeks we would ask that if you have any jewellery you give them to me or bring them to Women’s Group as soon as possible. If you have been unfortunate enough to lose a gold earring or cufflink and don’t know what to do with the odd one or any broken ones I will be happy to receive them and collect them together to sell for scrap. All funds we raise at these events go towards the day to day costs of running All Saints’ Church. We couldn’t do it without the support of everyone in both organising and taking part in these events and for this we thank you.

Pat Smith

Moorlands Court

Local Community Services

 Homecare – our fully trained carers visit you in your home.

 Si ng service – a visit from our experienced staff gives family carers me for themselves.

 Day Centre – based at Moorlands Court, with a friendly and sociable atmosphere and includes a tasty 2 course lunch.

 Meals service – nutri ous, hot lunch me 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, just call us at Moorlands Court on 01763 260564, or email : denise.taylor@chsgroup.org.uk

Design

Planting

45

Gift

01763

Tuesday & Thursday 9am - Late Monday &Wednesday closed Friday 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 3pm

Internet Resources to Help You Stay Safe From Scams

In last month's article, I briefly mentioned an email scam alert service run by the Which consumer organisation. As a reminder, to sign up for these free emails, go to which.co.uk and scroll some way down the page to Newsletters where you will find a link to 'Scam Alerts newsletter'. The service gets its information from a number of sources, including Action Fraud and reports made to Which by consumers. An email is sent approximately once a week containing details of a few recent common scams, so your inbox won't be overwhelmed by emails.

Another useful website is HaveIBeenPwned.com. (I have added capitals to the address to make it more readable but it can be typed all lower case; the internet treats upper and lower case letters as the same.) "Pwned" is slang that has been coined to mean the opposite of "owned", i.e. someone's personal data is in the hands of someone else rather than the rightful owner. The site is very easy to use: simply type in your email address and the site will tell you whether any of your personal data (and what kind of data) has been exposed in a past data breach. You can also sign up to be notified if your email address is exposed in a future data breach. There is a separate search on the site to check whether any particular password has been exposed in a data breach at HaveIBeenPwned.com\Passwords. You shouldn't normally enter a password into an unknown website, but this particular website is safe. If any passwords have been exposed, you should change the password on all sites that use it and not use that password again. The password list and email list on the site are not connected, so the site is perfectly safe to use, even if it were to be breached itself.

If you think you have fallen victim to a scam, report the scam to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit https://www.actionfraud.police.uk.

If you're not sure whether something is a scam, you can talk to one of the trusted contacts in Meldreth:

Graham (01763) 260358

Linda (01763) 261405

Peter (01763) 260323 Tim (01763) 262801

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

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch

Letter to the Editor

Glow-worms in Melbourn

Last year I saw a magnificent display by glow-worms at Stockbridge Meadows in Melbourn in early July. I can't guarantee that they will appear again this year, but it might be worth a visit. Last year I saw them at about 10.45pm on Tuesday 12th July by the Millennium marker just inside the gate but they have been reported in England from June to August.

Bruce Huett

20mph Limit in Meldreth

You will no doubt have read in recent issues of Meldreth Matters the summaries of Parish Council minutes in support of an extensive 20mph limit across the village. The submission to Cambridgeshire County Council for funding has now been made.

The final decision by the Parish Council to make the submission appears to have been made on the strength of comments received at the Public Meeting held on 13th April. Reading the account of that meeting by Councillor Dr Adam Bostanci in the May issue of Meldreth Matters, it is clear that the meeting was of an informal nature and that there was a wide range of views regarding the need for this limit. During the meeting there was no proper debate, no mention of what the next step would be, nor how every resident of Meldreth was to be allowed to vote on this very important issue. There was, however, a request for comments on "post-it" notes to be left!

On the above evidence, I don't believe that, at this stage, the Parish Council has a mandate to make the submission on behalf of the residents and have written to the Councillors regarding this. As I write this, I am awaiting a response.

Points in favour have previously been outlined in Meldreth Matters. However, there are other considerations.

1. By reference to the Interactive Map on Cambridgeshire County Council's website (https://maps.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/?tab=maps), there have been seven accidents in Meldreth over the last six years. No speed data is recorded and all seven are described as ‘slight’. Is this sufficient to support a blanket 20mph speed limit?

2. What is the effectiveness of a 20mph limit? Recent Government statistics show that almost no-one obeys them whereas around 50% of drivers comply with 30mph limits.

3. Would lowering the limit have any effect on those drivers who currently exceed the speed limit and drive in an unsafe manner?

4. If a speed limit is set too low, a disproportionate number of drivers would criminalise themselves. One day a driver would be driving safely and complying with the current limit and the next, driving at the same speed,

would be deemed to be breaking the law and be in danger of receiving a summons.

5. Guidance from the Department of Transport states that introducing a 20mph limit is most effective when average vehicle speeds are already 24mph or less.

6. There is the potential for the rules of the road to be undermined. After all, if almost everyone is breaking the law, what does that say about the strength of and respect for the law on a wider basis? If a speed limit is set too low and is ignored then this could bring the whole system of speed limits into disrepute.

There are valid points to be made for and against but it is important that they are all given equal consideration and that every resident of Meldreth then has the opportunity to vote in a referendum on the issue.

Roger Wallbridge

MM is Available in Colour Online

To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme

Supporting people in Melbourn, Meldreth & Shepreth

Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour?

What is the service?

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

Who provides the services?

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

What will it cost?

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

How can I join?

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

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme is a registered charity

Refuse Collections

Black bins: 4th, 18th

Blue & Green bins: 11th, 25th

Getremindersonyourmobile:downloadtheBin Collectionsapp

9.00am Start of MM

11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

Church services, Women’s Group meetings, bell ringing and FOHT events are held in Holy Trinity Ch Holy Trinity Church. MLHG meetings, Parish Council meetings, Food Bank & Village Hub are in the C

Diary - July 2023

9.45am Sung Eucharist

Don’t forget to check out the MM online auc on (see p 4-5)

9.30am Slimming World

day Friday Saturday Sunday 1 2 6 7 8

8.00am Said Eucharist

10.30am onwards Pete Tucker Memorial Car Show (see page 7) pm lt. classes)

Village Hub Acro ilates able Tennis Council

9.30am Slimming World pm lt. classes) Village Hub cro ilates able Tennis

Village Hub ilates able Tennis

9.30am Slimming World

2.00-4.00pm Dementia Memory Café

9.45am Sung Eucharist

Village Hub ilates able Tennis

9.30am Slimming World

7.00 for 7.30pm

Village Hall Film Night: Bohemian Rhapsody

9 3 14 15 16 0 21 22 23 7 28 29 30

9.45am Sung Eucharist

Booking essential. See back cover or scan the QR code.

hurch. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group meet opposite Community Room in Elin Way. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.

In Praise Of … Courgettes

This month we showcase courgettes, which may be bland, but that also means they are versatile. They can be dressed up in a creamy lemon sauce and served with pasta, grated and added to a quiche, or served as crisp fritters. In fact, recipes for courgettes come in as many shapes and sizes as the squash itself: varieties of this summer vegetable can range from small and flying-saucer shaped, to dark-green and tennis ball-sized, to long and yellow.

Here are two recipes to celebrate courgettes in all their glory. Enjoy.

Cheese and Courgette Muffins

Ingredients

225g self-raising flour

100g courgette, grated

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

100g mature cheddar, grated

175ml milk

1 free-range egg

55ml olive oil

10 cherry tomatoes

Method

Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, courgette, salt, freshly ground black pepper and cheddar and mix well.

In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, egg and olive oil. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.

Grease ten muffin moulds and half-fill each with the mix.

Prick each cherry tomato - this stops them popping when they cook - and press one tomato into the top of each spoonful of mix.

Spoon the remaining mixture over each muffin to conceal the tomato. Cook for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Courgette, Coconut and Spinach Noodles

Ingredients for the dressing

¼ tin or 100ml coconut milk

¼ lime, juice and zest only

1 tsp soy sauce

1 tbsp olive oil

Pinch dried chilli flakes

1 garlic clove

For the noodles

100–150g dried noodles or 300g straight-to-wok noodles, variety of your choice

1 courgette, shredded (very finely sliced)

½ bag spinach or baby spinach (about 125–150g)

Handful radishes, julienned (sliced into strips about the size of matchsticks)

Small handful fresh coriander, roughly chopped

Method

To make the dressing, combine the coconut milk, lime zest and juice, soy sauce, olive oil and dried chilli in a small bowl and grate in the garlic clove. Season generously and set aside.

If using dried noodles, cook the noodles according to the packet instructions. Two minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the courgette to the water, simmer for a minute, then add the spinach, using a wooden spoon to push it under the water for a minute. Immediately take off the heat and drain in a sieve. Rinse under cold water, squeeze dry, then transfer to a bowl. If using straight to wok noodles, gently fry the courgette until tender then add the noodles. Once hot, tip in the spinach and cook until just wilted.

Add the dressing, radishes and coriander and lightly toss together. Transfer to plates and serve.

Jane O’Hagan

A Meldreth Garden

The garden shifts into another gear, the light changes, midsummer day has passed, the evenings are long and warm. The lush early summer garden gives way to the copper tones of the late summer garden and a new richer palette to the borders. Tender perennials and annuals such as dahlias, agapanthus, crocosmia, cosmos, salvias, etc. (which originated closer to the equator) are hitting their peak; many continue flowering to the first frosts if deadheaded regularly. The vegetable garden is delivering a bumper harvest, of generous quantities of beans, peas, potato, calabrese and soft fruit. I have been harvesting summer fruiting raspberries, the most delicious berry fruit we have.

The canopy has been raised on a number of trees and bushes to give more light and therefore allow a wider range of plants to grow around them. Removing the lower leaves of yellow stemmed bamboo (phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘aureocaulis’) and black bamboo (phyllostachys nigra) displays the colourful stems to best advantage.

Plant of the month is the sea holly (eryngiums), spiny sculptural plants. I love the metallic blue of eryngium alpinum in the late summer border. Several varieties in the garden include the perennials, eryngium alpinum ‘blue star’, eryngium variifolium, eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue'; eryngium agavifolium has tall spikes of green flowers and eryngium giganteum a white flowered biennial (otherwise known as Miss Willmott’s ghost) is a reliable self-seeder. Leave the flowerheads after flowering for winter interest. Eryngiums are easy to grow and will thrive in poor soil and dry conditions. Propagate perennial types by basal cuttings in spring.

Tasks in the Flower Garden

 Autumn-flowering bulbs, such as autumn crocuses (colchicum), saffron crocus (crocus sativus), winter daffodil (sternbergia lutea), amaryllis and nerine bowdenii, can be planted now.

 Divide congested clumps of bearded iris after flowering.

 Pinks and carnations that have become leggy can be propagated by layering or by taking cuttings. Propagation improves the appearance of untidy clumps.

 Start collecting seed from plants you want to grow next year, especially annuals such as marigold (calendula officinalis), opium poppy (papaver somniflora) and love-in-a-mist (nigella damascene). When coming into flower, I remove all but the white nigella and all but bright red and emperor purple opium poppies to ensure the seed lines are kept as required for my garden.

 Prune June-flowering shrubs such as philadelphus and weigela after flowering.

 Deadhead plants such as calendulas, dahlias, scabious and cosmos to keep them flowering.

 When flowers fade, deadhead hybrid tea rose's, prune to an outward facing bud. For florida and rambler roses pinch out individual flowers. For rosa moyesii and rosa rugosa where you want hips, don't deadhead.

Tasks in the Vegetable Garden

 Continue harvesting vegetables and fruit. Dig up garlic when the leaves begin to yellow and dry thoroughly before storing.

 Ensure ventilation in the greenhouse to help control fungal diseases and maintain an even temperature; spraying will deter red spider mites that devastate cucumbers and melons.

 Thin out the number of small apples on apple trees to improve the size and quality of fruit, especially if an apple tree has a biennial fruiting tendency like Fuji, Nicoter (Kanzi®) and Spencer varieties.

 Summer prune apple and pear trees to maintain height and shape, especially step over and espalier trees. This will also boost fruit size.

 Make sure you keep new plants well-watered, using grey water where possible.

 Pick courgettes before they become marrows.

 Sow chard, chicory and Chinese greens.

 Stop harvesting rhubarb and asparagus so they build up reserves for next year.

Iain McPhee mcpheia1@gmail.com

Spotted Flycatchers in Meldreth

It’s Spotted Flycatcher season again! The first sighting in Meldreth in 2023 was on 7th May – the same date as was recorded in 2022. There were two birds and their behaviour suggested they were a pair. They were seen regularly in their usual haunt from 7th to 17th May, but not seen after that.

There are many places where the birds can go to feed and nest around the village. Luckily, we know that there is a pair nesting not far from the original site. Are they our original pair? We will continue to watch to see if either bird is ringed. We will also continue to monitor their behaviour to see whether or not they produce eggs and chicks.

Jan Butchers

Please have a look at our online auction

Bid for flights, holiday cottages, craft items and much more!

www.jumblebee.co.uk/meldrethmatters

Meldreth Parish Council

www.meldreth-pc.org.uk

Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 1st June 2023

This meeting was held in the Community Room in Elin Way. The main points of the meeting are set out below in the usual summary format. The full formal minutes can be viewed in due course on the website noted above and on the Parish Council notice board; these will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

Discussions and Decisions

Public Comment

In the public session a member of the public asked the Council why it had made no representations to the District Council about the likely effect of the proposed four day week. This is the responsibility of the District Council; Meldreth is represented by two District Councillors and any comments or concerns should be raised directly with them by any member of the community whom they represent as District Councillors.

District and County Councillor Reports

The Council thanks our District and County Councillors for their latest report; this can be seen in Meldreth Matters on pages 33 to 35 and questions and requests for further information on this wide range of subjects can of course be raised directly with them. It was noted that agreement has been reached with Hertfordshire County Council for the continued use of the Royston recycling depot by residents of Cambridgeshire. Such users may be asked to show proof of their residence by showing evidence such as a council tax bill.

Audit

The process is now underway and the financial statements were duly signed for onward review by the auditors.

Co-option

The closing date for applications is 2nd June 2023. The subject will be an item for consideration at the Council’s July meeting.

Recreation Ground and Village Infrastructure

The ditch at the end of the recreation ground will shortly be cleared. As previously reported, progress in other projects continues to be made. The regular report from ROSPA on our equipment at the recreation ground has recently been received and will be reviewed and acted upon as necessary. Some repairs and adjustments are required to the adult gym equipment but after inspection by the supplying company it confirmed that the equipment was not intended to be ‘resistance based’ unlike similar facilities in use in gymnasiums.

Village Traffic

The Traffic Group will be asked to investigate replacing the bollards at the Stocks which have been destroyed/removed. These were intended to prevent parking on the grass triangle and ‘corner cutting’ by visiting traffic. More substantial bollards are needed subject to these being visually acceptable at this notable village landmark.

It was noted that events at the Eternit Sports and Social Club will generate more local traffic, notably the Motorcycle Show on 21st June and the Car Show on 2nd July.

Concern was expressed at the poor state of the white lines/markings at the Fenny Lane/Whitecroft Road crossroads with the possibility that a clear lack of effective prioritisation markings could lead to a serious accident. This will be reported again to Highways but in the meantime all residents are asked to exercise additional caution at this junction.

Community Projects

The Council has received a request from the Village Hall trustees to contribute £3,643 towards the garden development project together with a contingency sum of £1,200. This was approved without the contingency which could be the subject of a further specific application if such additional funding was proved to be necessary. It was noted that the Village Hall has raised £10,000 from the National Lottery and £2,000 from the SCDC Community Chest.

Hub and Food Bank

The Hub is well supported financially and is now due to continue for at least the next six months. The Food Bank does, as previously noted, require more financial support and this process is in hand by our organisers. We continue to thank our teams of volunteers who give up their time to manage these important community facilities.

Grass Cutting

The arrangements with Buchans (see the May minutes) could not be finalised as the Council expected and the Council agreed to continue its relationship with DP and to enter a contract for a further three years, noting that the service from them had been both reliable and effective. Recent weather has accelerated the growth of grass and measures have recently been taken to deal with this by some additional cutting.

Next Parish Council Meeting

Thursday 6th July 2023 at 7.30pm at the Elin Way Community Room.

Meldreth Parish Council

Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk

Parish Office, Meldreth Sheltered Scheme, Elin Way, Royston SG8 6LT

Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm By appointment at other times

Parish Clerk: Mrs J Damant Assistant Clerk: Mrs Sally Walmesley (01763) 269928 parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk

Cllr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061 goddin@btinternet.com

Cllr Adam Bostanci 07400 236329 adam.bostanci.pc@gmail.com

Cllr Joan Fallon (01763) 262822 c.jfallon@icloud.com

Cllr Nick Garner (01763) 268328 nickphgarner@gmail.com

Cllr Roger James (Vice Ch.) (01763) 261085 roger+pc@rogerjames.net

Cllr Alan Land (01763) 261004 conradland@btinternet.com

Cllr James Mossey 07496 324701 j.mossey1211@gmail.com

Cllr Nigel Pellatt (01763) 260909 nppellatt56@gmail.com

Vacancy

District and County Councillors’ Report

Here’s a snippet of stuff we’ve been busy with. If you’d like a fuller picture of our work on your behalf we also write an email newsletter – just get in touch if you’d like to receive it.

Council Telephone Numbers – who does what and how to get in touch

‘The council’ can mean so many different things – Parish, District and County are separate organisations and overarching them all is the Mayoral Combined Authority!

To contact South Cambridgeshire District Council (housing, planning, bins, environmental health, licensing, benefits and more) the main telephone line is (01954) 713000 and it is open 8.00am to 5.30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and on Wednesday from 8.00am to 6.30pm.

The County Council has a different number for each of their service areas (children’s services social care, public health, highways, more planning, waste disposal and recycling centres, and more). Numbers are listed here: https:// www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/council/contact-us. Alternatively, please ask Susan!

Become a Mentor for Care Leavers

The County Council annual meeting heard a compelling presentation from a young person who had grown up in care. The council has an ongoing recruitment campaign for foster parents and now also a mentoring programme to support young people in mapping out life choices and strategies.

Find out more about becoming a volunteer mentor in Cambridgeshire for young care leavers at https://www.goal17.global/cam.

Affordable Housing – Make Sure You Are Registered

If you are in need of affordable housing, please make sure you register for South Cambs Home-link, which will put you on the housing register and give you the most choice. Any questions please ask Sally Ann and Jose: https:// www.scambs.gov.uk/housing/apply-for-housing.

Fenny Lane Surface Treatment

This is due to take place in mid-June. Unfortunately the same treatment is not possible for the High Street as the level of the road cannot take any augmentation, due to flood risk with a street level so close to pavement level. As mentioned previously, other treatments are being looked at and we hope to hear back soon.

Royston Recycling Centre Access for Cambridgeshire Residents

Following the decision earlier this spring by Hertfordshire County Council (HCC), which owns and operates the site, to restrict access to Hertfordshire residents only, Cambridgeshire County Council has been working hard with HCC to find a solution to allow access for Cambridgeshire residents. Everyone sees the common sense in this. There is a financial agreement to be worked out and this must work its way through the democratic process. Meanwhile, HCC have been clear that

during this period Cambridgeshire residents’ rights to use Royston Recycling Centre are protected. Please remember to take ID showing your home address.

Community Chest Grants

This is an excellent, versatile funding source for community groups. Applications are easy to fill out and are considered monthly. See https://www.scambs.gov.uk/ community-safety-and-health/grants/community-chest-grants or just search South Cambridgeshire District Council Community Chest. Jose chairs the grants committee and can provide more information.

Civil Parking Enforcement, South Cambridgeshire

This long-awaited scheme is coming into focus, expected but not guaranteed to be approved by Parliament in November. It should be ready to go pending current work updating enforceable lines and signs. We’ll be seeing some action in Meldreth High Street.

The scheme will see traffic wardens able to enforce illegal parking. The County Council is in the process of refreshing lines where parking enforcement is expected to be an issue and will administer the scheme.

While Police have greater powers than traffic wardens will have, the scheme is necessary because police stopped enforcing parking offences about six years ago. The first five years of this scheme will cost more to administer than revenue generation by fines, mainly because this is rural district. The Greater Cambridge Partnership will subsidise the cost of the scheme initially.

Post-16 Education Transport Costs

Understandably, it often comes as a shock to parents of young people completing their GCSEs and moving on to post-16 education and training that there is no statutory provision for post-16 education transport. In years past, before extreme cuts decimated local government public services, there was some discretionary capacity to provide financial support (though not dedicated transport links). The cost of a season pass by bus or train is significant – and getting to the bus or train is a huge challenge for people living out of safe walking or cycling distance.

The last commercial bus service from the Mordens, Bassingbourn, Whaddon and Meldreth to Cambridge sixth form was withdrawn by the operator in 2017, citing congestion on Trumpington Road that caught buses in congestion, making the journey unreliable and causing ridership to plummet to just over one person per day on average. Some may remember that we tried to set up, with support from Royston and District Community Transport, a shuttle to Meldreth Station; when it came to it very few people signed up and this could not go forward.

Our Community Rail Partnership has an agreement with the train operating company, negotiated back in 2009, for a Cambridgeshire 16-18 year-old student rail discount. This offers a season fare 50% off the adult price and notably, good during holidays and weekends. Travel must be within Cambridgeshire.

The 26 bus from Royston-Melbourn-Cambridge is another option though it is not clear how long the current government sponsored low fare will stay in place.

Bus Stops and Timetables Need Refreshing

We’ve asked the Combined Authority to please update information at our bus stops including new timetables, the current operator and Transport Authority contact information.

Electric Buses

On 12th May Cambridgeshire received 30 brand new electric buses, which will replace some of our older buses and which are being used on our P&R. Putting in a bid for this small fleet of electric buses- and winning it - was one of the first things Mayor Nik Johnson did and it has taken time for Volvo to build them for us. You may have noticed these zero emission buses out and about in Cambridge.

East West Rail Announcement

The southern route down from Cambourne and meeting up with Cambridge South Station has been announced; this would cross the A10 just south of Harston. For details see https://eastwestrail.co.uk/routeupdate.

Pot Holes

Many have been filled in – but some remain, so please check the Highways Reporting System map for any you see without markings around them and if they’re not there, please report them. Search ‘Cambridgeshire Report a Fault’.

Any Questions or Concerns?

Please feel free to get in touch with any questions or concerns. We hold a Zoom Cuppa surgery on Mondays from 5.00-6.00pm or can meet up or talk any time.

SCDC Four-Day Week Trial

Following questions in the queue at One Stop and at the Meldreth Fete, here is an explanation of what this is all about!

This initiative by South Cambridgeshire District Council has generated intensive national press interest, both positive and negative. Some inaccurate information has been perpetuated. Please read the reports on the SCDC website (link below) for a fuller picture.

The key impetus for the trial was a stubborn difficulty in recruiting to posts and reliance on more costly agency staff to fill vacancies – coming with a big cost to the public purse. Some areas of the council, for example planning, are especially prone to losing newly trained staff to higher paid private sector jobs. Councils can’t match private sector pay but they can offer different ways of working.

The premise of the four-day-week is that productivity must not be adversely affected and that a healthier workforce may perform more productively, making up that ‘lost’ time. The world has changed and many factors have had a profound impact on the local authority workplace: technology, financial crisis, deep cuts to public services, changes in the international workforce since Brexit and a general decline in population health.

Disruption of staff turnover is something people may recognise through their own experience: multiple successive planning officers dealing with a planning application means lost institutional memory. Training new staff is expensive, and when staff don’t remain in post for long that training cost is lost - this is public money.

Prior to the announcement of the trial, a survey was undertaken on staff health. When the trial concluded, results showed improvement, while productivity was unaffected. Although not intended to measure recruitment, there was evidence of improvement in recruitment as well as retention, with savings of £300K. So it was decided to extend the trial to a 12-month period. There is a lot more information here: https://www.scambs.gov.uk/your-council-and-democracy/four-day-workingweek-trial.

If you have specific questions or concerns, please feel free to ask. We will collate questions and answers and share the results.

County and District Councillors, Susan van de Ven, Jose Hales and Sally Ann Hart

Dust Free Wood Floor Sanding & Restoration

Is Your Wooden Floor In Need Of Sanding ?

Call

DennyLodgeBusinessPark,ElyRoad,Chittering www.artofclean.co.uk/info@artofclean.co.uk

Little Hands Nursery School

The Moor, Melbourn

A Private Nursery School specialising in quality care & preschool education for the under fives

High staff to child ratio, individual child centred planning & learning, Flexible booking system for the 08.00am –5.30pm nursery day. Optional holiday clubs available, dedicated baby room for children under two

We accept nursery funding giving 15 & 30 hours/week of free funded nursery for all 3 and 4 year olds & eligible 2 year olds

For further information contact Sharon Tutty,nursery manager on 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com

Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk

The Moor Melbourn

SG8 6EF

07163 223400

office@melbournvc.org

www.melbournvc.org

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

OFSTED (Sept 2017) confirmed:

‘An innovative curriculum that truly meets the needs of pupils’

‘The first school in Cambridgeshire to introduce Mandarin at Key Stage 3’

‘The school’s vision of Everybody is Somebody is evident in the support you provide for all pupils’

‘Parents are overwhelmingly supportive of the school’

Senior Leaders will be delighted to show around prospective students and their parents. For more information or to book your tour, please contact Karin Doyle – office@melbournvc.org

EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY

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

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

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

E-mail: enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk

Registered Office: The Letting Centre Ltd, 24b Orchard Road, Melbourn, Nr. Royston, Herts. SG8 6HH Tel: 01763 263039 Registered in England No. 4472384 VAT No. 700035112 Director Mrs Angie Rixon

Planning Matters

Meldreth Parish Council

The minutes of the Parish Council Planning Meetings of 2nd February and 6th April were still not available at the time of going to press. The following items were taken from the minutes of the Parish Council Planning Meetings on 4th May and 1st June. When available, minutes may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

Land to the Rear of 106-108 High Street, Meldreth 22/04489/FUL

Construction of a single storey unit Amendment to application The Planning Committee recommended ‘Refusal’, pending clarification of the access route onto the High Street. On the previous application the Planning Committee recommended ‘No Recommendation’, but commented with their concerns on the access. This concern has now been highlighted by Highways.

38 High Street 23/01807/S73

S73 to vary conditions of ref: 22/03423/HFUL Roof extension and single storey front, side and rear extensions to replace the external facing brickwork with an acrylic render. Planning Committee recommended ‘No recommendation’ with no comments.

Planning Authority Decisions

Recent decisions have included the following:

43 Whitecroft Road, 23/01248/HFUL

Single storey front extension. Permission granted.

25 Oakrits, 23/01169/HFUL

Single storey side and rear extension, loft conversion with side facing dormer windows and associated alterations. Permission granted.

Details of all applications and all Planning Authority decisions may be viewed online: https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.

The Meldreth Matters Team

New Phone App to Help Addenbrooke's and Rosie Patients Navigate the Hospital

Patients have led the way in a project to make it easier to find your way around Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie hospitals.

The new CUH Directions app was developed by patients for patients and was the idea of hospital volunteer Mike, a member of the hospital’s Outpatient Experience Group, who led on the project with hospital staff.

The app maps out your route from your start to end point in a series of images and words, showing you the shortest route through the hospitals.

Visit the App Store or Google Play Store and download it to your mobile device. Find out more at: https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/news/new-cuh-directions-phone-apphelps-patients-find-the-way.

Angie Ridley Communications and Engagement Manager Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Fundraising for Addenbrooke’s A3 Ward

www.justgiving.com/page/kirsten-bailey-1683038020132

My name is Kirsten Bailey and I live in Orwell. You may have heard my name before, due to my fundraising. I have Spinal Muscular Atrophy, autism and many other unconnected health issues. In 2020, at the age of 29, I had a stroke followed by a mini stroke the following year. I have since had brain surgery, after which I was on Ward A3 for two weeks.

The staff were incredible. They were so kind, thoughtful and caring. In return I am raising money for them. The money will go towards making the day and quiet rooms on A3 more homely. In addition I am trying to get the ward its own mobile hoist, ECG and bladder scanner. I would also like to provide a higher table for the staff room and some coat and bag storage for staff as these things will make a big difference to them. The total cost for all the above is £8,600. Please visit my Just Giving page to make a donation: www.justgiving.com/page/kirsten-bailey-1683038020132.

I am also organising a fete in Orwell on 29th July to raise money for the A3 ward. [See the events listing on page 11.]

You can visit my Facebook page to find out about all the things I’m doing for the A3 ward: www.facebook.com/groups/1218708848809842.

Kirsten Bailey

MCCS – Community Support

MCCS is pleased to be coordinating the Meldreth Food Bank and Meldreth Village Hub.

Huge thanks to everyone who is supporting these initiatives, whether through volunteering and warm welcomes, or donations of daily basics to the collection box outside 62 High Street, or cash support from individuals and groups (please contact MCCS Treasurer Roger James 07808 235873). Behind the scenes, invaluable support has been received from our Parish and District Councils. Core funding initiative for the Warm Hubs comes from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Integrated Care System (our local NHS).

Our Neighbourhood Zone Leaders are always on hand for a friendly chat by telephone and to help locate the support you’re looking for. Their telephone numbers are below.

Kneesworth Rd, West Way, Burtons & Fenny Lane: Bev Cottrell, 07773 592838

Elin Way and Howard Road Zone: David Hollamby, 07732 106828

Whitecroft Road, Chiswick End, Oakrits, Melrose, Marys Way, Westacre: John Crawforth, 07595 627684

High Street, Flambards, The Grange, Woolpack Way, Station Yard and Road: Lindsey McCaig, 07884 432345

Bell Close and Gables Close: Cathy Walston, 07757 086380

North End, Brewery Lane, Malton Lane, Cam Farm: Bev Cottrell, 07773 592838 and Ian Mitchell, 07726 936635

If you have any other questions, please let us know.

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

17 Bus Service

This bus runs Mondays to Saturdays from Guilden Morden via Steeple Morden, Litlington, Bassingbourn, Whaddon, Meldreth, Melbourn and Kneesworth to Royston and return.

The bus stops in Meldreth High Street (near the Stocks) at 10.20am and then makes several stops in Royston including Tesco at 10.35am before the last stop at Royston Bus Station at 10.49am. The return bus leaves Royston Bus Station at 1.10pm and Tesco at 1.21pm, arriving in Meldreth at 1.31pm.

Susan van de Ven

Village Directory

Facilities

Litter Picker Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118

Neighbourhood Watch Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358

One Stop

Village Hall Bookings

Village Hall Chairman

Cycling Group

(01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days

Julia Moore—meldrethvillagehall@gmail.com or 07403 462198

David Coton—07749 850026

John Rogger—(01763) 260809

Clubs & Societies

Local History Group (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk

Lunch Club Nikki & Julie—07599 292327

Melwood Cons. Group (01763) 232855; www.melwood.org.uk

Photographic Group www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440

U3A Nicola Searle—(01763) 852738

Bowls Club Christine Piper Hatch—(01223) 263266

Croquet Club Janet Pope—(01763) 248239

Sport

Meldreth United FC 07930 650036

Table Tennis Christine Knight—(01763) 261676

Tennis Club

(01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

Vicar Post vacant

Church

Rev. Mary Price

(01763) 261569

Bells Sandra Webb—(01763) 261451

John Price (Friends) (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk

Baby & Toddler Group Julia Moore—07403 462198

Brownies (1st Meldreth) Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com

Children

Guides (1st Meldreth) Email: 1stmeldrethguides@gmail.com

Hartbeeps

Kelly@hartbeeps.com

Meldreth Rainbows 1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com

Pre– and Primary School (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Parish Council Please see details at end of Parish Council report

Councils & Govt.

District Councillors Jose Hales—07703 262649;

Sally Ann Hart—07791 233303

District Council Offices 01954 713000; www.scambs.gov.uk/

County Councillor Susan van de Ven—07905 325574

https://susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/

County Council Offices 0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/

MP Anthony Browne; www.anthonybrowne.org/

Station Ticket Office Hours: Mon - Fri 7-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.15pm

Northern www.thameslinkrailway.com

Potholes, problems,Highways etc.

http://www2.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/HighwaysReports/ Highways/ReportProblem1.aspx or in an emergency tel 0345 045 5212

Streetlights (faulty) Report on SCDC website. For urgent faults use (01954) 713000 - Mon-Fri, 8am-5.30pm. Out of office hours: (01354) 65432. Give location, fault & SC or CCC no.

Community Support for Dementia

Davina Biswell 07961 574104 or Stephanie Trayhurn 07710 198299

Water (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk Crimestoppers 0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org Police 101; www.cambs.police.uk

S Cambs Fire & Rescue (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk

Melbourn Hub (01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com

Taxi (Butler Meltax) (01763) 244444; 212223

For details of village groups & facilities see the Meldreth Today section www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Meldreth Matters Team: Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Editorial Assistant: Robin Farbridge; Distribution: Lesley Pemberton 07798586875 and Maggie Smith 260378; Founder: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available online at https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters

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MELDRETH PLANT HIRE

TEL: 01763 262738

DIGGERS, DUMPERS, BREAKERS, WACKERS, ROTAVATORS. AVAILABLE FOR DAILY OR WEEKLY HIRE.

WWW.MELDRETHPLANT.CO.UK

Whaddon Road, Meldreth, SG8 5RL

Club Facili es

Licensed bar

Hall available for private hire for any occasion (compe ve rates)

Fully equipped gymnasium (annual subscrip on)

Snooker room, Pool table

Large children's outdoor ac vity area

Petanque pistes

Football pitches, changing rooms

Entertainments

1st Friday of the month

Melbourn Rock Club

One Saturday a month

Melbourn Rock Club

Rock and Roll Night

Every Thursday night

Eternit bingo—starts 7.30pm

Local gig venue

Big charity events during the year

Motorcycle Rally - Air Ambulance - Mini Chill weekend - Camping - Local Chari es

Club Charity - LUPUS