Meldreth Matters, June 2023

Inthisissue …

Lift Off Choir

Meldreth Parish Charities

Meldreth Primary School

June 2023

Events include …

An Evening with Sarah Harrison

Church Fete

Scarecrow Festival

What’s On in June

A10 Awareness Ride 16

An Evening with Sarah Harrison 4, cover

Bowls Club Open Afternoon 6

Church Fete 7-8

Events at Melbourn Hub 11

Melbourn Family Fun Day 10

Motorcycle Show 4

Scarecrow Festival 5, 8

Things to Do in June 20-21

Tractor Run …23

Village Hall AGM 4

Village Hall Film Night 4

Village Hub Summer Tea Party 11

Village Groups

Cycling Group 16

Friends of Holy Trinity 14

Lift Off Choir 12-13

Meldreth Local History Group 12

Women’s Group 12

Gardening and Nature

A Meldreth Garden 30-31

Cookery

In Praise of … 28-29

This month’s cover picture: Fenny Lane, April 2023. Photograph by Gabrielle Wilbur. (See Letter to the Editor on page 31.)

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.

Thelastdateforcopyisthe12thofeachmonth

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.

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Welcome to the June Issue of Meldreth Matters.

We were pleased to receive £500 from Tesco following the recent voting in store. Thank you to everyone who voted for us and to all those who have made donations towards the magazine’s production costs. Many thanks, too, to everyone who came to the Topcliffe Mill open afternoon on 14th May. We were able to donate £245 to Meldreth Matters as a result.

Kathryn

Auction of Lots and Promises

We are very grateful to everyone who has offered items for our Auction of Lots and Promises to raise much-needed funds to ensure the continued production of Meldreth Matters. Items continue to be offered, with the latest being:

 A ride for up to six people in the ex-Maharaja's 1927 Rolls-Royce.

 A week in a cottage in France

 One day’s use of a pressure washer

 A Steepletone Chichester II Music Centre (used but in good working order)

 A case of wine

 A “surprise bundle” of five perennial plants

 Computer equipment (used but in good working order).

We hope to begin an online auction next month, with a live event in the Village Hall on Saturday 16th September. More details will follow in the July issue.

If you have any items or services you can donate please get in touch. We are looking for items/promises of small value as well as large because we very much want it to be open to everyone. Questions, ideas, and offers please to lesleyfarbridge@hotmail.com or 07917 065465.

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

Mob: 07958 028 729 sockets@richardburnselectrician.co.uk

Village Hall AGM

The AGM of the Village Hall will be held on 16th June at 7.30pm in the Hall. Apart from all the usual reports and elections, we are looking in particular for someone who can take on the role of Honorary Treasurer. This is a key position; without a volunteer the continued availability of the Hall is in doubt. While we have most other roles covered, keeping this one separate helps to ensure "good governance", which is a basic requirement for a charity. Although the job is not complex and full support is available, some experience of accounting (not necessarily formal training) is necessary. Please contact David Coton on david@coton.me.uk or 07749 850026 for a chat or further information.

We would also like to remind our regular non-commercial users that you can appoint a representative to serve on the committee, in addition to the elected members.

Royston & District Motorcycle Club Show

This will be held on Wednesday 21st June at Eternit Sports & Social Club from 6.30pm onwards. £5 cash entry. See https://www.facebook.com/events/s/roystondistrict-motorcycle-cl/544030417672567 for further information.

Kathryn Betts, Editor

An Evening with Author Sarah Harrison

Sarah Harrison is best known as the author of over thirty successful novels but finds it very therapeutic to get out from time to time, especially if there’s a jolly crowd and some laughs involved.

On 30th June, Sarah will be in Meldreth Village Hall sharing her good sense of humour on underwear, old age, beauty products, exercise, dating, childbirth, supermarkets, telly, road users and technology, to name but a few…

See the poster on the back cover of this issue for ticketing information.

Tracy Aggett

Home-Start Royston, Buntingford & South Cambridgeshire

Meldreth Village Hall Trust Committee

Meldreth Bowls Club

www.meldrethbowlsclub.co.uk

No sooner does the bowls season start than the rain comes! This makes the green soft and ‘heavy’. It will probably be the middle of June before the green hardens up so until then we will just have to push those woods that little bit harder.

Our ‘Open Day’ at the end of April attracted a dozen or so people keen to try out the sport. At least half of those have returned for our Tuesday morning and Saturday afternoon roll-ups and we hope they will join us as members.

If you missed out on the April Open Day never fear, there is another opportunity for you to try out the sport of bowls at our next Open Day on Saturday 3rd June, commencing at 2.30pm. If you can’t make 3rd, you are always welcome to come along to a roll up on Tuesdays, 10.00am to 12.00 midday and Saturdays from 2.30 to 4.30pm. You will be assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

Team matches will be coming thick and fast from now on, with sometimes three or more matches in a week. We have a list of home matches on the noticeboard by the entrance gate and you are welcome to come and support your village team. Our website also contains lots of information about our club. www.meldrethbowlsclub.co.uk.

Jim Hatch, Chairman

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

Holy Trinity Church Fete – Cake Recipes for Competitions

VICTORIA SANDWICH CAKE

2 x 7inch BASIC FRUIT CAKE

6-inch

INGREDIENTS

4 oz. self-raising flour (4 heaped tbsp)

4 oz. Stork table margarine

4 oz. caster sugar (4 rounded tbsp)

2 eggs

OVEN – Pre-heated to very moderate (Gas No.3: 335°F) – middle shelf

METHOD

1. Use creaming method.

2. Divide the mixture equally between the 2 x 7-inch tins and smooth evenly.

3. Bake in the pre-heated oven for 25-35 minutes.

4. Turn out: remove paper and cool on a wire tray.

5. When cold, sandwich together with jam and sprinkle with caster sugar or icing sugar.

6. Display on plate and cover loosely with cling film.

INGREDIENTS

8 oz. self-raising flour (8 heaped tbsp)

4 oz. Stork table margarine

4 oz. caster sugar (4 rounded tbsp).

4-6 oz. mixed fruit (currants, sultanas, raisins, etc.) cleaned

2 oz. mixed cut peel

1 egg

5 tablespoons milk

OVEN - Pre-heated to moderate (Gas No.4: 360°F.) – middle shelf

METHOD

1. Use rubbing in method.

2. Put in the prepared cake tin and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 1¼ -1½ hours.

3. Turn out, remove paper and cool on a wire tray.

4. Display on cake board and cover loosely with cling film.

Meldreth Scarecrow Festival: 10th & 11th June

Meldreth Scarecrow Festival returns with the theme “Top of the Crops”musicians, pop stars etc. The judges will walk around the village on Saturday afternoon, with Sunday being for those scarecrows that survive the night! There will be prizes for the top three best scarecrows. Please don’t leave actual musical instruments outside, and don’t block pavements.

Register your scarecrow at meldrethscarecrow@gmail.com by the Saturday morning and as last year we will have a custom Google maps for you to follow with a link publicised on the Spotted in Meldreth Facebook page. There will be paper copies on the noticeboards in the village and at the church fete. Please get in touch if you can help out with some light admin as well.

Thank you to everyone who plans to enter.

Roger Faires

Melbourn Family Fun Day

Saturday 24th June 1.00pm – 5.00pm The Moor, Melbourn

We’re back! After a five-year break, Melbourn Fete Committee is relaunching with a Family Fun Day to kickstart summer and raise funds and awareness for local groups and charities.

There will be children’s entertainment, animals, classic cars, model train rides, stalls showcasing local businesses and community groups and much more. A selection of local food and drink vans, as well as the ever-popular Home-Start café, will also be there providing a range of refreshment options.

Entry is FREE and we are grateful to our many sponsors for making this possible. See www.facebook.com/MelbournFete or www.melbournfete.co.uk for more information.

If you’re interested in being a stallholder, volunteering on the day and/or know how we can guarantee good weather, please get in touch on info@melbournfete.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you there!

Melbourn Family Fun Day Organisers

Orwell Singers Summer Concert

Our Summer Concert will take place at Orwell Village Hall on 8th July at 7.30pm, featuring a variety of songs, both ancient and modern. Ticket prices will be £10, including a buffet. We have choir members from several nearby villages and are always keen to welcome new members. Anyone interested in finding out more about the choir or the concert can contact me at jdavidmarsh@gmail.com or (01763) 261443, or Katie Reid at katie.reid@talk21.com or (01223) 207387.

At the concert we’ll be saying farewell to our present Musical Director, and will be looking to find a replacement well in time for the Autumn term. We offer fees and expenses so please contact Katie if you’re interested in hearing more about what’s involved.

David Marsh

Meldreth Village Hub

Summer Tea Party – Saturday 24th June from 1.00–4.00pm

Meldreth Village Hub – Elin Way

Bring a friend (or two) and join us for some mid-summer fun, FREE cups of tea and coffee, cakes, tasty summer food and entertainment for the children.

For more information about this event or how you could become a volunteer, please contact me on 07787 734973 or Jenni on 07792 578786. We look forward to seeing you!

Helen Meridew Lead Volunteer

Melbourn Hub

www.melbournhub.co.uk

After a very busy May, when we celebrated the King’s Coronation in style with a fantastic street party, we’re very much looking forward to the summer at the Hub - hopefully with a bit more sunshine to come! Our artist in residence will be Ruth Westwood, and here’s what’s on over the course of the month.

Weekly Events

Thursdays: Primary Care Network 10.00-11.30am - Drop-in session providing advice and support on health and wellbeing.

Fridays: Children's Story Time 10.00-10.30am - For under 5s. No need to book!

June Events

Thursday 1st June - Carers Cafe - 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 21st June - Menopause Cafe 10.00am - 12 noon. Meet others and get advice and support from the personalised care team. Please book via email at cpicb@meridiancare.nhs.net.

Wednesday 28th June - 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 June

Saturday 3rd June 4.00pm - “Tea at four and more” with author Mandy Morton. Tickets £10. Includes a cream tea and a book. Booking essential - contact the Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@melbournhub.com.

Linsey Craike on behalf of Melbourn Hub

Meldreth Local History Group (MLHG) www.meldrethhistory.org.uk

MLHG held its AGM on 24th April. This was followed by a presentation by Alan Williams on life in Meldreth in the 1960s. We would like to thank Alan for all his hard work on putting such an entertaining and well-researched talk together. Both the AGM and the talk were attended by over 50 people and we’d like to say a big thank you to all the attendees for their continued support of Meldreth Local History Group. As usual, there was no charge for this event and we are grateful to those who made a donation on the day towards our work.

There are over 700 pages on Meldreth, past and present, on our website or follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/meldrethhistory).

Kathryn Betts MLHG Webmaster

Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group

At our April meeting we welcomed the Lift Off Choir, led by Clare Silver. She began with a warm up session which we were encouraged to take part in. We were then invited to sing along with the choir in some short songs. It was most enjoyable. Sue Toule gave a vote of thanks and a donation.

In May we had our usual Summer Supper. Our next meeting will be in Meldreth on 27th June. This is a members’ music evening when we have the opportunity to take along our favourite pieces.

For more information about the group, or if you would like a programme or a lift, please telephone one of the committee members: Diane Blundell (01763) 221415, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Angela Leach (01763) 262793, Mary Bailey (01763) 220171 or Mary Purdy (01763) 260864.

Angela Leach

Lift Off Choir

Lift Off Choir made their feature film debut in April, featuring in a scene in the film Opus 28. It was a surreal moment when I found myself on a zoom call with a Canadian film director and associated team a few months ago, negotiating terms for our choir to appear in their film. Once we had agreed to take part, a song arrangement was written for us by a Canadian choral arranger and we had four rehearsals to get ourselves up to performance standard.

It's fair to say that a lot of hard work went into those rehearsals, as well as plenty of personal practice, as choir members sang along at home to the YouTube tutorial videos I made specially for the project. On the day that the film crew

came to see our work in the Village Hall, we were all incredibly nervous, but it was a joyous moment when all the hard work came together and the film makers were delighted with the singing.

So, on a Monday evening in April we spent four hours filming the scene at Meldreth Church. It was an eye opener for us all. Filming is not glamorous. It is a lot of standing around and repeating the same task over and over again, but ... it was so interesting, and great to have a shared experience as a choir probably never to be repeated again. After all it's not every day one appears in a film.

Myself and all the singers felt so much pride at being involved in the project, especially because the film had a focus on our lovely village of Meldreth. The singing was a real team effort and I am so grateful to the singers who gave up their time and worked so hard to achieve the final result. We will have to wait sometime to see the finished film - hopefully that will be some time next year - but we can't wait until we do.

In other news, the choir visited Meldreth and Melbourn Women’s Group to lead a singing workshop last month and on 10th June we will be performing at Meldreth Church Fete. For more information about the choir please contact me.

Friends of Holy Trinity (FOHT)

www.foht.org.uk

The FOHT held their 37th AGM on Friday 12th May 2023. With a couple of missed AGM years, the Friends have now operated for nearly 40 years. The Friends’ aims are to provide financial support for the maintenance and improvements of the historic church building, and to organise activities at the church for the involvement and entertainment of the local community.

The Friends have made significant contributions towards these aims over the years through a varied programme including talks, presentations, suppers, open garden days and, over the past eighteen years, the hugely popular Classic Car Show, held in the church grounds. This event has been instigated, investigated, motivated and organised almost single-handedly over the years by John Price, Vice Chair of the Friends for 25 years now. (The Chair is always the incumbent local vicar.)

The Car Show day is now a well-rehearsed activity with a regular bunch of helpers. What goes unseen, however, is the huge investment John makes throughout the year, networking with fellow classic car enthusiasts and encouraging them to participate in our Meldreth event. This enthusiasm and persistence is special and unique.

At the meeting John announced his retirement from the role of Vice Chair. Steve Hawkins proposed a vote of thanks for the enthusiastic involvement John has brought to the Friends over the years. This was fully supported by those present. I was voted in as the new Vice Chair. John is a huge act to follow! Fortunately John will be staying on the committee, ‘without portfolio’ and will continue with a keen interest in the car show, with music from his band, whenever possible.

I approach this new role with some trepidation! Interest and involvement in local churches is challenging, whether from a religious or any other angle. We on the committee of the Friends will continue to try to organise events villagers may be interested in, but we are always looking for ideas, so please get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you.

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

Annual A10 Awareness Ride/Walk/Scoot

Sunday 11th June

Cyclists: Depart from Trumpington Park and Ride at 10.00am.

Plus the option to cycle to Trumpington in company with our marshals, who will be leaving Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Stations at 9.00am.

Walkers and scooters: Depart from Melbourn Hub at 10.15am.

Refreshments will be on Phillimore’s front lawn (please bring cup/water bottle) plus DR BIKE repairs and E-bikes to try out!

The event is sponsored by the A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign with the Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Community Rail Partnership. Please email me at susanvandeven5@gmail.com if you can help as a marshal, serve refreshments or bring a cake.

Susan van de Ven

Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

On one of our recent rides we celebrated the 90th birthday of Michael Stapleton, one of the founding members of Meldreth Marvels and a regular leader of our rides.

We enjoyed a delicious cake, appropriately decorated with bicycles, provided by the most attentive staff, at the Stove Café in Bourn.

For safety reasons, due to the numbers meeting on a Tuesday, we now split up into smaller groups. Varying distances are now an option according to one’s abilities. Many of us now use electric assisted bikes, which is such a bonus for our breezy, sometimes hilly routes.

To coincide with the A10 Awareness Ride [see article above] we are arranging for some electric bikes to be available for allcomers to trial, to encourage a healthier lifestyle. These will be available between 11.00am and 12.30pm on Sunday 11th June at Phillimore Garden Centre, Melbourn. Of course, if you have a conventional bicycle and wish to convert it to an E-bike, that option can also be explored on the day.

We look forward to seeing you at the Awareness Ride.

John Rogger

Meldreth Traffic Working Group

The Traffic Group has met once since our last report in Meldreth Matters. We discussed which safety or traffic calming measures in the village to prioritise in future Local Highway Initiative applications, with one such application being anticipated in the autumn. Anyone who has views is encouraged to get in touch.

We also discussed how the Group could provide specific input into planning applications for larger new developments to ensure that access arrangements, such as location of dropped kerbs or location of drains, adhere to best practice. Liaison with the team implementing the “Melbourn Greenway”, which includes changes to provide improved access to Meldreth train station, is ongoing.

Since our last report in Meldreth Matters, the Parish Council has decided to apply for funding from Cambridgeshire County Council to create a 20mph area in Meldreth. The Traffic Working Group always welcome new volunteers. In fact, we are still looking for volunteers to operate the speed indicator and hope to publish a “Job Description” detailing all the benefits and perks of the role in a future issue of Meldreth Matters.

Finally, we continue to urge residents to report potholes and other highways issues such as disappearing road markings by using the online reporting system.

Adam Bostanci, Parish Councillor

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

Meldreth Parish Charities

Meldreth Parish Charities (Charity Number 233979) comprising:

Robert Halfhead (1658) Lettice Martin (1562) James Addlestone (1723)

These ancient bequests were set up to provide an annual income which was originally disbursed at the discretion of the Trustees. Over time, this purpose was modified by the introduction of the Welfare State and social benefits and subsequently the Trustees have been able to use the annual income to provide assistance to residents who have a particular need that cannot be met by normal sources of income or support.

A reminder that we are here to help

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

Examples:

 Provision of books /equipment for students

 Costs involved in hospital visits, medical prescriptions

 Special payments to help in cases of financial need, or support in the case of illness or infirmity

Applications are invited and can be made to any of the Trustees or the Clerk. Applications are, of course, treated as strictly confidential.

Trustees

Mrs Ann Askham Tel: (01763) 262133

Mrs Jane Bates Tel: (01763) 261638)

Mr Graham Borgonon Tel: (01763) 260358

Mrs Joan Fallon Tel: (01763) 262822 Theresa O’Malley Clerk to the Trustees (01763) 260433)

Things to Do in June

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

Throughout the month, during normal Anglesey Abbey opening times

Beyond Anglesey Abbey - a fenland walk

Quy Road, Lode, Cambridgeshire CB25 9EJ

Explore the footpaths around Anglesey Abbey on this 4.6 mile, fenland family walk. Passing through nearby villages, winding fenland waterways and Quy Fen, a Site of Special Scientific Interest before returning to the Abbey. To view/download the trail visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cambridgeshire/anglesey-abbeygardens-and-lode-mill/beyond-anglesey-abbey-walk.

Saturday 3rd June, 1.00pm to midnight

Strawberry Fair, Midsummer Common, Cambridge CB5 8DJ

Popular free, volunteer-run, one day music and arts event celebrating the vibrant and creative cultural life of Cambridge. With arts area, ‘kidz park’ and lots of stages for live music. Visit www.strawberry-fair.org.uk.

Thursday 8th June, 10.30am to 12.00noon

Cuckoo Walk at Wicken Fen

Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, Lode Lane, Wicken CB7 5XP

Join cuckoo expert Nick Davies for a guided walk on Sedge Fen to look for these mysterious, deceptive birds and their unsuspecting reed warbler hosts. Meet at entrance to nature reserve. Free event but booking required at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cuckoo-walk-at-wicken-fen-with-nick-davies-tickets611093947447. Car park charges for non-National Trust members.

Friday 9th June, 8.00pm to 10.00pm (open from 7.00 pm)

Foyer Poetry: Hollie McNish

Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH

Enjoy a great evening of poetry, drinks and street food at this popular venue. Live poetry readings with two support acts and headlined by Hollie McNish. Tickets from £13.50; book and pre-order food at www.saffronhall.com. NB This event not recommended for children under 13.

Sunday 11th June, 10.00am to 4.00pm (last entry 3.00pm)

Chippenham Park Open Gardens

Chippenham Hall, Chippenham Park, near Newmarket CB7 5PT

Only open on selected dates throughout the year and awarded their highest rating by the Good Gardens Guide. Canals, woodland walks and formal gardens with roses and summer flowers in full bloom. Licensed Potting Shed tea room. Entry £7, children 5-16 £3. NB admission and tearoom are cash only. www.chippenhamparkgardens.co.uk.

Wednesday 14th June to Wednesday 26th July, normal opening hours

Threads Through Creation

Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, The College, Ely CB7 4DL

Breathtaking exhibition of twelve enormous, embroidered silk panels that explore the story of Creation - in more than eight million stitches! The bold, colourful embroidery can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Normal cathedral admission charges apply; see www.elycathedral.org.

Sunday 18th June, 2.00-4.00pm

Cambridge Sport: in Fenner’s Hands - Walking Tour

Starting on Castle Hill and finishing at Fenner’s Cricket Ground

£9 or free if purchasing the new book, Cambridge Sport: in Fenner’s Hands. For details visit: cambridgeshportstours.co.uk

Tuesday 20th June, 7.30pm

The Lost Words - A Spell Book

West Road Concert Hall, West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DP

Elektra Women’s Choir present an evocative musical interpretation of the bestselling book by Cambridge author Robert Macfarlane (who will read each spell) and artist Jackie Morris. Tickets £20, £10 for children under 18 and full time students. Book online at http://www.westroad.org/event-info/elektra-womenschoir/ or call ADC Ticketing on (01223) 300085.

Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th June, 8.00am to 6.00pm

Duxford Summer Airshow

Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire CB22 4QR

With flying beginning at 1.00pm, you are guaranteed a magical day out with aerial displays, flypasts and special entertainment across the showground. Tickets from www.iwm.org.uk. Standard adult admission £47.50; accompanied children 15 and under go free. NB Book early, they sell out quickly.

Sunday 25th June, 6.00pm to around 8.30pm (concert from 7.00pm)

Singing on the River 2023

Back Lawn, King’s College, King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1ST

Pack your picnics and head for the lawns of King’s College for this annual event. The King’s Men perform a delightful programme of madrigals, part-songs and close harmony on the banks of the River Cam. Tickets £20 with concessions (£10 and £5) for students and children. Under 5s, free. Bring warm clothes - and umbrella if needed! Visit www.kings.cam.ac.uk for details and to book.

Wednesday 28th June, 10.00am to 12noon

Wildflowers of Coton

Coton Reserve, Grantchester Road, Cambridge CB23 7PZ

Gentle guided walk led by knowledgeable warden to learn about summer wildflowers using their colour, form and habitat. Meet at large noticeboard in car park. Free, suggested donation £3. NB no toilet facilities on reserve.

Compiled by John Crawforth

11.00-12.00 Trigger Point

Pilates

Refuse Collections

Black bins: 6th, 20th

Blue & Green bins: 13th, 27th

Getremindersonyourmobile:downloadtheBin Collectionsapp

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 - June 2023

pm ult. classes)

Village Hub

Acro

Pilates

Table Tennis Council

pm

ultiple

Village Hub

Acro

Pilates

9.30am Slimming World

2.30pm Meldreth Bowls Club Open Day (see page 6)

9.45am Sung Eucharist

All day: Scarecrow Festival

11.30am-4.00pm Holy Trinity Church Fete

All day: Scarecrow Festival

8.00am Said Eucharist

9.00am A10 Cycle Ride, depart Meldreth Station (See page 16)

10.00am-3.00pm Charity Craft Fair

6.00pm Church Service for Wholeness and Healing

pm ult. classes)

Village Hub

Acro

Pilates

Table Tennis

Table Tennis pm ulti. classes)

Village Hub

Acro Pilates

Table Tennis

9.30am Slimming World

7.30pm Village Hall AGM (see page 4)

Village Hub

Acro Pilates

Table Tennis

9.30am Slimming World

1.00-4.00pm Summer Tea Party, Meldreth Village Hub (see page 11)

2.00-4.00pm Dementia Memory Café

9.45am Sung Eucharist

9.30am Slimming World

9.30am Slimming World pm ulti. classes)

7.00pm for 7.30pm An Evening with Sarah Harrison Home-Start Event (see page 4 & back cover)

7.00 for 7.30pm Film Night: A Man Called Otto. Pre-booking essential (see page 4) or scan the QR code)

Friday Saturday Sunday 1 2 3 4 8 9 10 11 5 16 17 18 2 23 24 25 9 30

Cambridgeshire Vintage Tractor Club NHS Road Run

11.50am approx. in North End, then via High Street and Whitecroft Road to Kneesworth. About 100 tractors. Please donate on the day.

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.

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

Things for Children and Families To Do

Throughout June and July, 9.30am - 5.30pm

Mog’s Remarkable Adventures at Anglesey Abbey

Quy Road, Lode, Cambridgeshire CB25 9EJ

Step into the paws of Judith Kerr’s Mog the cat, leap through the giant cat flap, explore Mog’s toy box and enjoy adventures in the garden. Free event but admission charges apply unless you are National Trust members.

Wednesday 7th June, 7.00pm

Robin Hood with the Three Inch Fools

Wimpole Estate, Arrington SG8 0BW

A riotous summer adventure for all the family. Three actors tell the story - but can’t agree about how it should go. Outdoor, whatever-the-weather performance. Ice cream, coffee and crepes available. Take your own picnic from 6pm. Tickets £18 adults, £10 children from www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Friday 9th June and every Friday, 10.00am - 10.30am

Children’s Story Time, Melbourn Hub, High Street, Melbourn SG8 6DZ Stories for under 5s. No need to book.

Saturday 17th June, 11.00am - Sunday 18th June, 12.30pm

Family Wildlife Camp Out

Trumpington Meadows, Grantchester Road, Trumpington CB2 9LH

Join the Rangers to explore a remote area of the reserve. Set up camp then try sweep netting, pond dipping and a reptile survey. Later, set a moth trap and go on a bat hunt. Enjoy a camp fire and marshmallows. For ages 7 - 11. £35. Book on 07894 599020 or email rebecca.neal@wildlifebcn.org.

Sunday 18th June, 2.30pm (and monthly March to July)

Science on Sundays, Cambridge Botanic Gardens, Brookside CB2 1JE

Find out about the fascinating world of freshwater microbes and how climate change is affecting freshwater ecosystems. Free, informal talk in the Classroom but garden admission charges apply. For adults and ages 12+.

Saturday 24th June, 1.00pm - 5.00pm

Melbourn Family Fun Day

Bouncy castles, stalls, competitions, classic and vintage vehicles, egg throwing, tug of war. Refreshments. For more details see www.melbournfete.com.

Sunday 25th June, 1.00-4.00pm

Studio Sunday

Kettle’s Yard, Castle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AQ

Join us in our Clore Learning Studio for a practical art making workshop. Suitable for 3-11 year olds. This is a free drop-in event.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

Meldreth Primary and Preschool

www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

With the sun finally starting to poke its head out, spring at Meldreth Primary meant more time outdoors and an amazing trip to Grafham Water for our Year 4 students.

Arriving early on Monday morning, their first task was to make their beds and unpack their suitcases – quite the endeavour for those sleeping on the top bunks! The next few days continued in this vein with a programme of activities designed to promote maximum independence and problem-solving skills. Our students had to figure out how to build dens that would withstand heavy rainfall, construct rafts that would comfortably seat twelve and work together to get to the top of the infamous 40foot high ‘Jacob’s Ladder!’

Our school value of ‘courage’ was a perfect fit for this residential trip as all of our Year 4s conquered their fears in one form or another, whether it was heights, bikes or being away from home for the first time. I was very impressed with the way they looked out for each other and gave one another encouragement and support when necessary. Indeed, their positive attitude and excellent teamwork was commented on by multiple instructors from Grafham who noticed their patience and resilience.

Mr Chapman Assistant Headteacher

Attention All Young Footballers!

Are you looking for a team to showcase your skills and passion for the world’s greatest game? Melbourn Dynamos under 13s (starting Year 8 at school in September 2023) Football Team is recruiting new players to join our squad!

As the players are moving up to eleven-a-side games in the new season, we are looking for some extra players to complete our squad. As a member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to train every week as well as play competitive games against other local teams.

At our club, we strive to create a fun and supportive environment for our players to learn and grow their skills. Our experienced coaches are dedicated to helping each player reach their full potential on and off the field. We also benefit from

excellent training facilities throughout the year on the AstroTurf at Melbourn Village College. As a member of a team, players develop important values such as teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship that will serve them well both on and off the field. Our focus is on helping each player develop their skills while having fun and building lasting friendships with their teammates. We have spaces in all positions across the squad, for everyone whether you have played in a team before or not. Why not come along to a taster session to see what it’s all about? For further information, contact me on 07866 348578 or email me at benyelton@yahoo.co.uk.

Ben Yelton

In Praise Of … Gooseberries

This month we showcase Gooseberries which are native to the UK. Varieties vary when ripe from green through to white and red. They are eaten in a range of desserts, but also can be served with mackerel. They can be made into fools, jam, jelly, wine or even vinegar. The best things in life are free and elderflower is no exception, not just for the quintessential summer cordial, but for pickles and ices too and goes beautifully with gooseberries.

Here are two recipes to celebrate gooseberries and elderflowers in all their glory. Enjoy.

Gooseberry and Orange Drizzle Cake

Prep:10 mins, Cook:35 mins

Ingredients

225g softened butter, plus extra for the tin

225g caster sugar

225g self-raising flour

4 large eggs

Grated zest and juice 1 orange

225g gooseberry, topped and tailed

140g granulated sugar

Method

Heat oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Butter and line a 20 x 30cm traybake tin with baking parchment.

Put the butter, caster sugar, flour, eggs and orange zest in a bowl. Beat thoroughly with an electric whisk until creamy and smooth. Stir in the gooseberries, then spoon into the tin and level the surface. Bake for 35 mins until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Stir the orange juice and granulated sugar together, spoon over the surface of the warm cake and leave to cool and set. Cut into squares.

Gooseberry Gems

Prep:10 mins, Cook:20 mins, Ready in 30 mins plus cooling

Ingredients

225g self-raising flour

1 tsp baking powder

200g golden caster sugar

3 eggs

150g pot natural yogurt

4 tbsp elderflower cordial

175g butter, melted and cooled

For the fool:

330g gooseberry, topped and tailed, or use frozen

50g golden caster sugar

1 tbsp elderflower cordial

200g crème fraîche

Icing sugar, for dusting

Method

Heat oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Put 12 muffin cases into a muffin tray. Mix the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Beat the eggs, yogurt, elderflower cordial and melted butter together with a pinch of salt, then stir into the dry ingredients. Spoon into the cases (they will be quite full), bake for 18-20 mins until risen and golden, then cool on a wire rack.

Meanwhile, put the gooseberries and the sugar into a frying pan, then gently cook for 10 minutes until most of the berries have collapsed, but there’s still some texture. Taste for sweetness (add more sugar if you like, but remember that the cakes are sweet), then stir in the elderflower cordial and allow to cool. Once cool, fold into the crème fraîche.

To serve, cut a section out of the top of each cake using a small, serrated knifeheart shapes look sweet, but if that’s too fiddly simply cut off the top and cut in half, like a butterfly cake. Spoon a dessertspoonful or so of the fool into each cake, top with the piece that you cut away, then dust with a little icing sugar.

Jane O’Hagan

A Meldreth Garden

I am planting up gaps in the flower beds with potted bulbs and plants; annuals for instant colour, for scent and to add height to the display. For example after the forget-me-nots (Myosotis sylvatica) have flowered and been removed, gaps appear. Polyanthus primrose (primula × polyantha) and hellebore seed, picked fresh, were sown as soon as the seeds were ripe. It is always interesting to see the colour-ways of the resultant plants.

I have been cutting back clumps of spring flowering perennials to ground level after flowering to encourage a fresh flush of foliage; oriental poppies, geraniums, pulmonaria and leopard's bane (Doronicumcan), to stimulate fresh growth.

I have been taking softwood cuttings of plants like hydrangeas, penstemons and buddleia, etc. Even roses can be propagated from softwood cuttings. I try to have backups of all important perennials. Collect strong healthy young shoots about 8cm (3 inches) long, early in the day after preparing pots and a propagator. Trim shoots below a leaf axil, then remove the lower leaves from the stem with a knife, dib-in the cutting around the edge of a pot and trim off remaining leaves by half to reduce water loss. Put in a propagator or in a pot covered by a plastic bag, keep damp and place in the greenhouse out of direct sunlight, these will root in a month or so.

My plant of the month is acanthus mollis, not acanthus spinosus, which is a prickly thug. Acanthus mollis has deep lobed bright green leaves and tall white and purple flower spikes in May/June. Almost evergreen, it is a tough plant that will last for years and is suitable for difficult positions. I have acanthus mollis planted in light shade at the front of the shady border behind damson trees. There is both the standard green leaved form with white and purple flowers, a white flowered form acanthus mollis 'Rue Ledan' and a golden leafed form acanthus mollis 'Hollards gold'.

The allotment is filling up nicely; a period of improved night time temperatures is getting things moving. The asparagus, first crop of the season after rhubarb, has been lovely if restrained in size. Keep flower and vegetable plants moving as they do much better without a halt. I have been potting-on plants as necessary.

A main job is keeping on top of weeds and pests, flea beetle, aphids, butterfly, etc. Flea beetle is a particular problem for radish and turnips this year. I should have covered them with enviromesh netting after planting the seed.

Activities I will consider in the Flower Garden

 Pot-on biennials grown from seed e.g., foxgloves, sweet william, wallflowers, honesty, icelandic poppies and verbascums

 Cut out reverted green shoots on hardy variegated evergreens, e.g., Elaeagnus pungens 'Frederici'

 Plant out tender bedding and tender perennials such as cannas and dahlias now the danger of frost has passed

 Fill gaps in herbaceous borders with annual bedding

 You can sow the seed of winter bedding, winter pansies, wallflowers and polyanthus, making good sized plants for planting out in October

Vegetable Garden

 Start harvesting early potatoes if they're large enough, 80 days from planting to cropping

 Sow spring onions, endive, lettuce, rocket and oriental greens and for a winter harvest kale, chicory and cabbage, etc. For florence fennel sow seed after the longest day to reduce the chance of plants bolting later.

 Plant outside cucumbers, courgettes, squash, pumpkins, sweet corn and outside tomatoes if the weather is warm enough

 Pinch out the side shoots of cordon tomatoes varieties, keep tomatoes evenly moist to avoid the skin breaking

 Transplant leeks to their final position when they're pencil thick & 40cm (15”) long

 Keep on top of weeding to stop weeds romping out of control

Enjoy your garden and take time out to sit and appreciate the fruits of your activity.

Ian McPhee

Letters to the Editor

Wildflowers

To my delight, it seems that mowing of the Fenny Lane roadside verge has ceased (for now), with wonderful consequences for the flora of the verge.

On a recent dog walk, I counted 42 species of vascular plant, with some lovely species not uncommon in wildflower meadows coming through - Oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), common knapweed (Centaurea nigra), cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) and cowslip (Primula veris).

Long may this trend of less intensive management continue. Hopefully this photograph does it some justice.

Gabrielle Wilbur

Editor’s note: Please see this month’s front cover for another of Gabrielle’s photographs.

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Amazon Brushing Scam

If you’ve received an unexpected ‘Suzhichou’ branded scarf (or another relatively small and light item) in the post, it’s likely that you’ve been targeted by a 'brushing' scam. Brushing scams involve dodgy sellers on online marketplaces such as Amazon submitting fake orders of their own items. After submitting an order, the seller sends a cheap, low-quality product to a random address. This generates a tracking number on the marketplace. Once the recipient receives the item, the scammer will be able to leave a fake five-star review. These 'sales' bolster the seller’s figures, helping their products rank higher in search results. A variation of the scam involves you ordering an item from a marketplace but being sent a completely different item. In these instances, the fraudster sends out a cheap product with the same tracking number that was generated by your actual order.

If you receive one of these items, it means a fraudster has got hold of your name and address. Some shoppers have reported receiving these scarves after ordering a different item from a Facebook marketplace store based in China. Alternatively, your address may have been taken from a publicly available source, been compromised as part of a data leak or been accessed as a result of entering your details into an unsecure website.

If you receive an unsolicited item from an Amazon marketplace seller, report the package to Amazon by going to Help and typing in ‘Report Unwanted Package’ in the help search. You should also change your Amazon password and set up twofactor authentication. The unsolicited package indicates that some of your personal information has been compromised, so you should check bank and credit card statements for unexpected transactions.

This article was adapted from an article on a Which Scam Alert email. To subscribe to these free emails, go to which.co.uk and look for 'Scam Alerts newsletter'.

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 phoning Graham on the above number, or by emailing nhw.meldreth@btinternet.com.

Meldreth Parish Council

www.meldreth-pc.org.uk

Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 4th May 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 Parish Council website and on the PC noticeboard and will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

Discussions and Decisions

Comments from public. It was reported that the adult gym equipment may need operating adjustments. The Council will look into this as a matter of urgency. Council posts, committees and working groups: the current Chairman and Vicechairman (Councillor R Goddin and Councillor R James) were elected for a further period of twelve months. All the memberships of the Council’s committees/working groups were reviewed and additional appointments made to replace vacancies and to strengthen those areas where particular work will be needed in the forthcoming year.

District and County Reports

The Council thanks our District and County Councillors for their latest report; this can be seen in Meldreth Matters on pages 36 to 38. Questions and requests for further information on this wide range of subjects can of course be raised directly with our District and County representatives. It was noted that the redecoration of the pedestrian underpass between Meldreth Railway Station and Melbourn has been completed and the next stages in upgrading the path (currently only a footpath) for wider use are now on the agenda. It was noted that the SCDC Zero Carbon Communities Grant scheme has a closing date of 2nd June 2023 and the Parish Council’s working group will consider possible subjects for application.

Recreation Ground and Village Infrastructure

The ditch at the end of the recreation ground will be cleared. As previously reported, progress in other projects continues to be made.

Community Projects

The Council agreed to adopt the revised version of the application form and notes. This does not change the basic intention of the Community Projects (Solar funded) scheme but inter alia clarifies the Council’s policy to require all applicants to investigate other sources of funding such that the Parish Council will aim to provide a proportion of the overall costs.

Hub and Food Bank

Both these facilities continue to operate as planned. The Hub is appreciated as a point of social gathering and the village food bank now assists fifteen families totalling 55 people. There will be a need to bolster donations to the food bank.

The Council will be passing a previously agreed donation and there may be a wider fund raising appeal. We continue to thank our teams of volunteers who give up their time to manage these important community facilities.

Traffic Issues

The proposal for a 20mph speed limit in most of the village was duly submitted and the Council awaits the next stage of this process.

Grass Cutting

There will be no cuts in May in line with national council policies, “no mow May” – to allow natural grasses to seed. The Council now has the three quotations it has been seeking for the continuing contract and a decision was taken to employ Buchans.

Burial Ground

The Council will be appealing for volunteers to help clear certain parts of the cemetery and the shed in which equipment is stored. This will include the newly restored funeral bier once the shed has been satisfactorily cleared.

Next Parish Council Meeting:

Thursday 1st June 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

Vacancy

(01763) 260909 nppellatt56@gmail.com

District and County Councillors’ Report

A few local and wider issues which we hope will be of interest. As always, please feel free to contact us with any concerns, gripes, ideas, observations – thank you!

High Street Road Deterioration

Susan has been out with the head of maintenance to look at a trial method of repair which could work well along the High Street, characterised by trench seam failure. We are awaiting confirmation that this can be brought to Meldreth.

Royston Recycling Centre

Productive discussions are ongoing between Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire County Councils regarding access by Cambridgeshire residents at Royston recycling centre. It’s estimated that the majority of users there are Cambridgeshire residents, but funding comes entirely from Hertfordshire County Council so there is a large-scale financial question to be worked out. Hoping for resolution soon.

Foul Water/Plumbing Problems?

We’d be really to grateful to hear from anyone who has been experiencing foul water plumbing problems at home – and especially if you have reported these to Anglian Water (which is really important to do). We are aware of some problems but don’t know the extent of them. Just drop any of us a line with your address, any reference number and a brief description. We would then follow up in our discussions with Anglian Water.

Meldreth Road Level Crossing

Thanks to Councillor Roger James for the invaluable contribution to the Public Inquiry. On behalf of the Community Rail Partnership Susan has written in support of representations by Meldreth and Shepreth Parish Councils.

Very Localised 2021 Census Results and Public Data

Cambridgeshire County Council hosts Cambridgeshire Insight, a rich source of open data including 2021 census results. Search for detailed demographic information by village, or thematic issues arising from the Census. https:// cambridgeshireinsight.org.uk.

SCDC Four Day Week Trial

You may have read about South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) running a four-day week trial for office-based officers. Results of the trial have been published. All local authorities across the country are facing huge problems in recruiting and retaining staff. It is impossible to compete with the private sector especially for planning and environmental services officers and so councils have to offer something other than money. The cost of having to use agency staff for unfilled posts is currently running at £2m per year - which is a lot of money for a District Council like South Cambridgeshire. For these reasons SCDC has had to think laterally, hence the Four Day Week trial. During the trial, officers have had to work very differently and in a more focused way, in order to do 100% of the work in 80% of the time to receive 100% of the pay. The results have been

enormously encouraging: performance, which has been independently assessed, has been maintained and in some instances improved. Staff who were thinking of leaving are now likely to stay. Officer feedback was 88% positive; and satisfaction feedback from residents was not impacted. The recommendation is to extend the trial for a further year.

Councillors are also to be asked to include the refuse collection services in the Four Day Week trial as of this summer. Many councils already do not collect bins on a Monday because of the disruption caused by bank holidays so this is being looked at as a way of extending the benefits to more staff.

Right to Buy

Council house tenants have long had the ‘right to buy’ their home at a discount. What has been frustrating for councils who own the houses is that the government takes most of the money from these sales which makes it really hard to replace sold homes with new ones. Finally, it appears that Government is allowing us to keep our Right to Buy receipts but only for two years. We sell about 30 properties a year and this will mean that we have to borrow less when we build new houses.

Community Group Funding

A total of eleven voluntary sector groups have received SCDC funding including Home Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire (£13,711), Royston & District Community Transport (£7,000) and Citizens Advice (£100,000). The grants are given at the start of each new financial year and the Council makes a pledge to continue that support for the next three years, subject to satisfactory progress reports.

Paying Council Bills

Most people pay their council bills online or by direct payments. However, we know some people are not able to do this. Council house rents can be paid on the phone - if for some reason this is not working for you please let us know. We closed the cash payment office at South Cambridgeshire Hall ages ago because payment of invoices in cash was declining. However, provision was made to offer customers the opportunity to pay by cash at the Cambridge City Council cash office which remains open. There is also the facility to have a payment card issued which enables customers to pay at banks and post offices by cash or cheque.

Transport Needs and Background Costs

Recent challenges from residents about ‘what my Council Tax is used for’ led us to think it’s useful sometimes to remember how wide CCC services are. So for example, residents of Cambridgeshire have many and varied passenger transport needs: travel to work, travel for leisure, travel for health, travel to school and these are all met with a variety of transport solutions. For example, the Home to School Transport Budget this year costs the taxpayer) £29.3 million. Travel for health is provided in the case of patients who can’t use public transport by the Cambridgeshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) which costs £6m per year. All other

transport needs are met via commercial bus services and community transport on which roughly £60 million is spent per year as well as £9m on all bus services through concessionary fares and supported bus services at £7.1m. This totals roughly £111.3 million being currently spent per year in Cambridgeshire on meeting the passenger transport needs of residents.

Zoom Cuppa – Mondays 5.00-6.00pm

We hold a weekly Zoom cuppa on Monday afternoons. Please let us know if you’d like to join and we’ll send you the link – or we are happy of course to meet in person or to talk by phone any time.

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

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. When available, minutes may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

The following items have been taken from the minutes of 20th April:

Meldreth Road Level Crossing, Meldreth Road, Shepreth 22/05204/FUL PC recommended rejection, with detailed comments (see minutes online).

43 Whitecroft Road 23/01248/HFUL

Single storey front extension. No recommendation with no comments.

25 Oakrits 23/01169/HFUL

Single storey side and rear extension; loft conversion with side facing dormer windows and associated alterations. No recommendation with comments: “It is not clear from the diagrams if there is an overlooking issue at the new dormer windows level.”

Recent Planning Authority Decisions

Valley Farm, Station Road, Meldreth SG8 6JP 22/02850/FUL

Permission granted for the construction of a replacement dwelling house

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

The Meldreth Matters Team

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Moorlands Court

Over 60? Feeling a bit lonely? Why not try our Day Centre?

 Meet up for a chat and lunch?

 Our Day Centre is comfortable, friendly and easily accessed.

 Open Tuesday to Friday every week.

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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

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

Julia Moore—meldrethvillagehall@gmail.com or 07403 462198

David Coton—07749 850026

Cycling Group 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

Bridget Rinaldi—bridgetjrinaldi@gmail.com or Julia Moore—07403 462198

Children

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

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

Advertising Rates

Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request. For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone

Cottrell on (01763) 262176.

Index to Advertisers

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

MM is Available in Colour Online

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

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

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