Things to Do in March

Here are some things happening in March in the local area. Coronavirus restrictions and conditions may still apply - please check before you book. If you want to let us know about any future event or activity please email: meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Mother’s Day Raffle, to be drawn Wednesday 23rd March In aid of HomeStart Royston, Buntingford and South Cambs

Be in with a chance to win a wonderful hamper of goodies for the mum in your life. Second and third prizes also available. Tickets £2 each from www.tickettailor.com.

Friday 4th March, 8.00pm Foyer Jazz: Homecoming Quintet Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH

Latest in the popular series of informal jazz concerts, the band pays tribute to two of jazz’s most influential figures - Dexter Gordon and Woody Shaw. Mediterranean-inspired street food by Boho Kitchen. Tickets from £13.50 from www.saffronhall.com.

Saturday 5th March, 10.00am to 4.00pm Ely Record Fair The Maltings, Ship Lane, Ely CB7 4BB

Whether you’re a collector or browser, music for every taste in all formats from a hall full of dealers selling vinyl, CDs, DVDs, memorabilia and books. Free entry. Visit www.spottedinely.com.

Sunday 6th March, 9.00am to 4.00pm Great Chishill Antiques and Vintage Fair Village Hall, Hall Lane, Great Chishill, Cambridgeshire SG8 8SH

Around 20 stalls packed with antiques, collectables and vintage items. From pottery to glass and jewellery with something to cater for all tastes in picturesque village setting. Tea room with home-made refreshments.

Wednesday 9th to Monday 28th March, Cathedral opening hours A Special Place - Textile Art Exhibition Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, The College, Ely CB7 4DL

Five textile artists explore the locations which inspire them, from local gardens to far away places. Beautiful collection of work from handmade felt to gold work to quilting. Many exhibits available to buy. See www.elycathedral.org for further details and to book tickets.

Wednesday 23rd March, 7.15pm A Cosmic Treasure Hunt Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge.

Join this online event and help search for the first jewels in the night sky! Using the James Webb space telescope and presented by James Trussler, one in the series of fascinating public open evenings run by the Institute of Astronomy’s expert team. Visit www.public.ast.cam.ac.uk for details.

Saturday 26th March, 11.00am to 3.00pm Book Sale at St Mary’s Church, Whittlesford, Cambs CB22 4NX

‘From the rare to the racy’ - books of every description for sale in fine village church. Refreshments and ploughman’s lunches. Free entry.

Saturday 26th March, 7.30pm Mozart - Requiem; Anthems by Brahms, Mendelssohn & Mozart St. Mary’s Church, Ashwell, Hertfordshire SG7 5LY

Returning to the lovely Ashwell church after nearly two years, Royston Choral Society will perform this mysterious and stirring masterpiece. Rarely heard live and not to be missed. Tickets £15, under 18 £1, from www.roystonchoralsoc.org.uk, choir members or call (01920) 822723.

Sunday 27th March, 11.00am to 4.00pm Mother’s Day Opening Benington Lordship Gardens, Benington, Herts SG2 7BS

Looking for somewhere special to celebrate the day? This private family home with spectacular gardens, only open on selected dates, will have a marvellous display of spring bulbs. Adults £7, Children £3, under 3s free. Refreshments available in tea room in parish hall next to the garden. Visit www.beningtonlordship.co.uk. for details and to book tickets.

Cambridge Festival Thursday 31st March to Sunday 10th April University of Cambridge, various locations and online

Over 350 in-person and online events with a programme tackling some of the our most pressing issues - ranging from crises in politics and health to climate change, global economics and human rights. Featuring experts from the worlds of current affairs, science, arts and culture. All events free and booking now open. See: www.festival.cam.ac.uk. Compiled by John Crawforth