Meldreth Matters, May 2018

May 2018

In this issue ... Flood Avoidance New train timetable Potholes Events include ‌ Annual Parish Meeting Local Elections Messy Church

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Contents People John Handscombe 4-6

Village Groups Football Club 18 Friends of Holy Trinity 46-47 Futures Group 23 Prayer Group 55 Tennis Club 20-21 WI 42-43 Women’s Group 42

What’s On Forthcoming Events 47 Local Events 48-49 Meldreth Church Fete 13 Pub Club 13 Summary of Meldreth Events 3

Local/National Government Councillors’ Surgeries 14 County Councillor 24-25 District Councillor 28-29 Heidi Allen, MP 56-57 Parish Council 35-39 Planning Applications 58-59

Local Facilities/Issues Flood Avoidance 22-23 Maycroft 45 Potholes 26-27 Children & Education 1st Melbourn Guides 55 Events for Children 51 Primary School 2, 52-53

Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 64 Arthur Rank Hospice 60 Fire Service 61 Mobile Warden Scheme 15 Neighbourhood Watch 40 Refuse Collections 33 Village Directory 62-63 Volunteering 31

Gardens & Nature Gardening 10-11 Spotted Flycatchers 8-9 Transport Issues Cycling 17, 18 Trains 14-15

Cover: The Flying Scotsman passing through Meldreth on 19/4/2018. Photograph by Ralph Betts. The opinions expressed in the letters and articles in this magazine are those of the writers, who are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within them.

The last date for copy is the 12th of each month. Copy should be submitted by email where possible, to meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or delivered to the Editor, Kathryn Betts at 36 North End, Meldreth, SG8 6NT Tel. (01763) 268428 The Editor reserves the right to withhold from publication or to shorten if necessary, any article or letter sent to her.

1

Editorial This month sees the local elections taking place for both South Cambridgeshire District Council and Meldreth Parish Council. This is the first time in many years that there has been a contested Parish Council election so please head to the Village Hall on 3rd May and have your say. With the elections and two bank holidays, some organisations and groups have changed their usual meeting times this month, so please check the centre pages diary for details. Finally, a quick reminder that a new train timetable will come into operation this month, with half-hourly trains during the day. See page 14 for more information. Please note that the level crossing next to Shepreth Station will be closed from 5th-14th May for the installation of full barriers, with traffic being diverted via the A10 (see page 15). Kathryn

Photographs showing the progress of the building work at Meldreth Primary School By Andrew Jones

2

May Events in Meldreth

Friday 4th 8.30-11.00pm Live Rock Music with Freak Barn Accident Eternit Sports and Social Club All welcome, free entry, licensed bar, real ale, etc.

Thursday 3rd 7.00am-10.00pm SCDC and Parish Council Elections Village Hall

Friday 11th

Sunday 13th

8.00pm

3.30-5.30pm

Friends of Holy Trinity Church AGM

Messy Church Holy Trinity Church

Church Meeting Room

See back cover

See page 46

Thursday 24th

For regular events and meetings in Meldreth please see the diary on pages 32-33

7.30pm Annual Village Meeting Village Hall

3

John Handscombe (1924-2018) I would like to go back 94 years to 1st March 1924, in the Anchor pub, Melbourn. We can assume that a lot of wetting of the baby’s head would have taken place, as upstairs, or maybe in a backroom, Christopher John was born, the first son of Christopher and Gladys Handscombe. Ted his brother followed two years later. Christopher John became known as John, so as not to be confused with his father. Later he would also become known as that “Old Boy from Melbourn” but more of that later. Dad went to school in Mortlock Street, Melbourn, graduating to the university of life at the age of 14 with just a junior 1st grade certificate for playing piano. I have never met anyone who either heard him play or even saw him sit at a piano! It was during his teenage years that the first signs of his entrepreneurial farming life began to emerge. Whilst working as a gardener’s boy, he kept a few chickens, sold eggs and collected watercress from Fowlmere to sell. He then went on to work as a shop assistant in the Co-op. At the outbreak of the war in 1939, Dad was too young to be enlisted but he volunteered for the Navy as soon as he turned eighteen. Dad trained as a gunner and served in the Coastal Forces on a Motor Torpedo Boat, MTB 677, based mainly out of Dartmouth. On being discharged from the Navy in June 1946 he returned home to Melbourn, where he continued to work for the Co-op. Finding shop life difficult after the war, he left and went into partnership with Fred Gibbons as a farmer. Dad met Mum, Win Bullard, from Therfield and they were married on his 23rd birthday, 1st March 1947, a snowy day at Therfield church. Mum and Dad moved to West Green, Barrington where they lived with Fred and Lilly Gibbons and continued to develop the farm. They built 4

the bungalow ‘Madeira,’ which became our permanent home on the farm opposite the British Queen in Meldreth. Pigs were kept in pens at to the rear of Madeira. Laying hens were housed in the field which is now Gables Close. Pigs were transferred for fattening to Shepreth, on land in Meldreth Road adjacent to Guilden Brook. I arrived on the scene in 1954, Barbara followed in 1956. Mum and Dad gave us an idyllic childhood, living on the farm with animals, tractors to drive and trees to climb. As children we could not wish for more. The farm was hard work: Dad getting up at 6 o’clock every morning, seven days a week; Mum supplying a cooked breakfast, cooked lunch and tea, plus tea and cakes throughout the day. We were all roped into collecting eggs, feeding and cleaning out pigs, often before and after going to school and during the weekends. On my first birthday, Dad was spraying trees in the orchard when he had a problem with the sprayer and put his gloved hand into the machine. This is when he lost the tops of two fingers on his right hand. I guess Happy Birthday was not the phrase used. In the early years before the farm became more intensive, I have memories of us fattening cockerels for Christmas and spending freezing evenings in the barn next to the bungalow, plucking and preparing them. Dad would then take them to Royston Market for sale. In the summer we picked apples, plums and pears. I remember taking them up to Royston Market with Dad to sell. I also remember travelling up to the Golden Ray bakery in North London in his Bedford van, to collect waste bread for preparing pig swill as he did each week. The Golden Ray was owned by the Gibbons family and Dad eventually bought them out of the farm partnership. It was at the Golden Ray he met the Zimmerman family who became lifelong friends and lived in Madeira Road, Palmers Green. Hence the name Madeira, Meldreth. Saturday mornings were always busy, with endless people from the village coming to buy eggs at the house. His pigs won a few awards at Playles abattoir for the quality of the meat. He was always proud of the quality of his ‘produce’ and worked closely with Trevor at the mill across the road to prepare feed mixes for both the pigs and chickens. Dad was a very practical man building all his own farm buildings, fixing anything mechanical or electrical that broke. He built the dining room and garage extension to Madeira. When the carpet fitters moved in and put nails through heating pipes Dad had laid under the floor, he blamed the work on that ‘Old Boy from Melbourn’. It was a term that 5

stuck and whenever we needed help fixing or building something we would always call on that ‘Old Boy from Melbourn’ for help. Dad also created the ‘school of life’ and a few of us graduated from this. Graham Handscombe, Kenneth Wing, Alan Pinney, Michael Handscombe, Anthony Pitcher and Mark Burns. We all passed through Dad’s school working on the farm during our holidays. Dad taught us a lot, like fixing things, mixing concrete, learning to drive and mucking out pigs. I believe Dad prepared us all well for life after school and most importantly of all, he instilled in us a strong work ethic. We would all think that such a busy life would be enough, but Dad still found time for his one hobby, photography. We have loads of black and white pictures, slides and prints as memories. He was an active member of the Melbourn photography club and built his own enlarger. Many a time the bathroom was converted into a dark room to develop his films. Dad and Mum eventually gave up the farming business in 1986, at the age of 62. Their retirement together was short-lived as Mum died two years later. Dad spent the next eleven years living alone. Then along came Ann, with whom he shared the last eighteen years of his life. Ann has been a wonderful partner to Dad, sharing experiences and holidays. Dad and Ann spent many a happy time together in the last years of his life. For someone who was always active, in his last years Dad became very frustrated by his decreasing mobility, not being able to do all those things he used to do, but he continued to read a lot and research all manner of things on his ipad. One thing that never failed him was his mind; right up to the end you could always ask Dad advice about something and he would give an opinion on all manner of subjects. Dad came from a generation that understood if you need anything you had to work for it, and work he did. Although life could be hard, he enjoyed it and never asked for anything more. I would like to say a big thank you to David, Wendy, Sandra, Dave, Michael, Angela, Julie and Keith for all the support you gave Dad and Ann over the past few months. And thank you to all of you who took time to pop in and see Dad for a weekly chat with coffee and cake. Finally, Ann, thank you for all the love and support you gave Dad in his past few years, I know he was very happy. Richard Handscombe 6

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Update on Spotted Flycatchers – Can You Help? Spotted Flycatchers are attractive summer migrants that travel from Africa to breed across the UK. They have a particular liking for our gardens and buildings where they often nest. However, the species is in trouble, with numbers of breeding birds in England declining by 73% over the last 25 years. In an attempt to understand the reason for this, the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) have been trapping small numbers of Spotted Flycatchers in Cambridgeshire and elsewhere and attaching tiny data loggers to them. These tiny light-level geolocators enable ringers to identify the birds’ key stopover and wintering locations. The results to date have been remarkable. Nineteen birds were tagged in East Anglia in 2016 (one in Meldreth). Nine of these returned in 2017, seven of which were re-trapped. These birds all travelled to Angola having crossed land masses, seas and the Sahara Desert. This is a journey of approximately 11,000 km, almost unbelievable for tiny birds that weigh just a bit more than a £2 coin. They then made the return journey to the same nesting sites in the UK the following spring! However, we still need to carry out more studies to understand how environmental conditions across the annual cycle affect survival and breeding success. Despite our best efforts, the bird that was tagged in Meldreth was not observed in the village last year, although an untagged Spotted Flycatcher was ringed and released. To help with this ongoing project in 2018, every sighting of Spotted Flycatchers in the county, from their arrival in mid-May until departure, is needed. If you see or hear Spotted 8

Flycatchers in Meldreth, please email either Ken McLean on ken.mclean34@yahoo.co.uk or Jan Butchers on jan.butchers@gmail.com. They will attempt to observe birds in the churchyard and/or your gardens if you give them permission. You can also help by emailing spofl@cambridgebirdclub.org.uk. To see the results from 2016 and some interesting observations check out: http://www.cambridgebirdclub.org.uk/spofl2017.html. Key points in identification:  Spotted flycatchers are slim, medium size, greyish brown birds.  They tend to sit upright on a regular perch, flicking their tail and watching for insects. They then fly down to snap their prey, often returning to the same perch as if on a piece of elastic, or to a perch nearby.  They seem to churchyards.

have

favourite

perches,

e.g.

gravestones

in

 Their call is quite quiet and squeaky. Jan Butchers

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Notes from a Small Garden I am writing this on a “dreaky� day on the way to London to see our eldest daughter and her family. [dreaky: a dreary, rainy day. Possibly derived from the Scottish dreich: dreary, drab, gloomy weather.] So yesterday evening I went around the garden to pick her a small posy. Alas, many of my primroses and small daffodils showed signs of being nibbled by slugs and by snails, those little multi coloured snails, the ones that I thought might have been killed by the frost. But no such luck! They had already chewed up some of my leucojums, and were starting on the delphiniums as these poked through the aconite leaves hiding them from view. I went on the net to discover a nice chat between several gardeners also experiencing the same problem. Suggestions abounded but all of them, such as copper rings and bird friendly slug pellets, are quite impractical for daffodils and primroses in the orchard. However, on cleaning out our garden room, I discovered a large bag of grit so I am going to sprinkle it round the stems of precious plants, including peonies. Of course one could just stick to the plants that snails don’t like, such as snowdrops, grape hyacinths, cowslips, forget-me-nots, aquilegia and the like, but our gardens would then be the poorer, especially in the spring. In the Royal Horticultural Society magazine this month, I found an article on spring onions which never grow very well for me, probably because I have never given them enough attention. The author suggested growing them sparsely, rather than thinning them out later. Successional planting, like lettuces, is apparently also the key. They recommend about eight varieties, only one of which I could find locally, White Lisbon. I have also sowed Purplette and North Holland Blood Red which I hope turn out like their names suggest. May is the most glorious month in the garden, and after this long winter, on the three good days we have had lately, I found I had forgotten the joy of being outside all day, pottering around, weeding, pruning, tying back and sowing seeds, with a cup of coffee now and then! There are such delights ahead; we have all the fruit blossom to come, late daffodils and the borders filling up with treasures showing through that I had forgotten about. 10

Some jobs for May:  Plant dahlia tubers if you lifted them for the winter  Divide hostas as they come into growth  Lift clumps of forget-me-nots before they become too invasive  Liquid feed containers every two to four weeks  Thin out radishes and lettuces  Keep hanging baskets well watered. This month’s Veg Club Plus will take place at Sandra and Paul Ray’s, 45 North End, at 5.30pm on Tuesday 8th May. Good gardening and good visiting to other people’s gardens! Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

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Pub Club The Pub Club takes place at The British Queen on the third Thursday of each month from midday to 2.00pm. The meeting in March was a very happy affair: sixteen people came and enjoyed themselves, meeting old friends and making new ones. Do come and join us. You can have lunch or even just a drink or coffee. Julie Draper

12 noon – 4.00pm (BBQ from 12)

Save the date! Come and support the Church and our local community! Enjoy a BBQ, visit the Plant Stall, listen to Music, sample homemade Cakes, step up to the Tug of War, take Refreshments & Teas, try your hand at the Bottle Stall and bring your Teddy Bear for the Teddy Zip Wire!!

If you’d like to help on a stall please telephone Lindsey on 07884 432345 13

Train Times Change on 20th May: new times & half-hourly on weekdays From 20th May, entirely new timetables will be introduced for Great Northern services (as well as Thameslink, Southern & Gatwick Express). This means that many passengers who use these services to get to work, school, or anywhere else may be affected as their usual journey time or pattern is likely to change. It is part of the biggest train timetable change in decades and is necessary to help increase capacity and improve reliability on the busiest part of the UK rail network. For Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton there will be, for the very first time, a half-hourly service all day, Monday-Saturday, except for 11.00am to noon, due to the Cemex freight train crossing at Foxton. Sundays will have an hourly service. The departure times you may be used to will be tweaked, so please check in advance: www.railplan2020.com/ timetables. The half-hourly service is something that the Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Rail User Group lobbied very hard for when the current Govia Thameslink franchise was tendered. Thanks to everyone who has given so much support to the rail campaign. Susan van de Ven Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Rail User Group www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk

Monthly Drop-in Councillor Advice Surgeries We hold a regular advice surgery at the Melbourn Hub on the first Monday of the month, 3.00-4.00pm. Susan is also at The Limes Community Room, High Street Bassingbourn (next to Hattie’s cafÊ and the village shop) every third Monday, 3.00-4.00pm. Or please contact us anytime and we will always do our best to help. Philippa Hart, District Councillor philippajoyhart@gmail.com (01763) 261255 Susan van de Ven, County Councillor susanvandeven5@gmail.com, 07905 325574 14

Shepreth Level Crossing Closure: 5th-14th May The level crossing at Station Road, Shepreth, will be closed to road traffic from 10.00pm on Saturday 5th May. It will reopen at 8.00am on Monday 14th May. During this time, the current half barriers will be replaced with full barriers and new CCTV cameras will be installed. The crossing sees 166 trains a day pass by at speeds of up to 65mph. Census data shows that currently nearly 2,300 vehicles pass over the crossing every day. During the closure period, traffic will be diverted via the A10 and Foxton level crossing. Please note that the railway line will also be closed on Sundays 6th and 13th May and a replacement bus service will operate between Cambridge and Letchworth Garden City. Passengers should check before they travel at www.nationalrail.co.uk. Kathryn Betts Editor

Melbourn Mobile Warden Scheme

Now operating in Meldreth Can we help you? Your relative? Your neighbour? What are our Services? The wardens make regular visits and telephone calls to provide social contact and friendship. They help people to keep safe and healthy in their homes and carry out errands around the villages for their clients, including shopping, collecting prescriptions and paying bills. Wardens assist clients to access other support they may need such as domestic help, home maintenance , meals or benefits etc. What will it cost? We do have to make a small weekly charge for the services. The fee is only ÂŁ6 per week (a little more for couples). How can I join? For more information please contact Jeannie on 07808 735066 or Jane on 07592 821976. Melbourn Warden Scheme is a registered charity 15

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A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign www.a10corridorcycle.com Annual Awareness Ride Sunday 6th May Meet at Trumpington Park and Ride for a 10.30am departure

The A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign is a community group that has existed for over six years and campaigns for improved cycling facilities along the A10 Corridor between Cambridge and Royston. Much has been achieved in these six years and we now have a greatly improved off-road cycle path all the way from central Cambridge to Melbourn. The most recent improvement has been the path through Harston, which is now complete. Cycling along this route is now a safe, pleasant, healthy, economical, environmentally beneficial and surprisingly rapid alternative to driving or public transport. Efforts continue on the Royston to Melbourn link which is the one remaining section without an off-road cycle path. We are campaigning for a shared bicycle and pedestrian bridge over the A505 where the A505 intersects the A10 and a new path on the Eastern side (i.e. the Melbourn side) of the A10 between Royston and Melbourn. This would eliminate two very busy road crossings (the A10 and the A505) for cyclists travelling between Royston and Melbourn. To publicise our campaign we are having an awareness ride on Sunday 6th May 2018. We will meet from 10.00am at the Trumpington Park and Ride and ride along the A10 cycle path to Phillimore's Garden Centre near Melbourn. The route is about seven miles long and is flat, so do come along and experience our wonderful new cycle path. Ralph Betts A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign 17

Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group J R Technology Ltd hosted coffee and cake on one of the cold mornings we have had to endure this winter and early spring. The ride was the usual 18-20 miles and the refreshments were certainly most welcome. On this particular morning, we had nine participants, although we sometimes get as many as eighteen. The gathering was very social as usual and we all learnt a little about the aerospace involvement with J R Technology, particularly concerning composite repair technology used on military and civil aircraft. It was suggested we maybe make a donation to Winter Comfort for the homeless, so with a generous starting offer from J R Technology, we managed to raise a total of £105.00 for which Winter Comfort were extremely grateful. Many thanks again to those who contributed towards this sum. If you would like to join a happy and gregarious cycle ride on the second or last Tuesday of each month, we meet opposite Meldreth Church at 9.15am. Cyclists of any ability and gender are most welcome. We look forward to seeing you on the next ride. John Rogger Editor’s Note: see page 17 for details of this year’s Annual Awareness Ride along the new A10 bike path.

Meldreth Football Club Fixtures Saturday Football Team There are no more Saturday fixtures remaining this season. The team’s last match was the final of the Cambridgeshire FA Lower Junior Challenge Cup which they played at Ely Football Club against Girton. The match was played on a very hot evening and after extra time the score was level at 1-1. The match had to be decided by a penalty shoot-out, which Meldreth lost 3-4. Sunday Football Team The final match for the Sunday Football Team will be on Wednesday 9th May at 6.30pm. Joan Fallon 18

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Meldreth Tennis Club www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub 2018-2019 Season The new tennis season is now underway. Ours is a friendly club, with fun tournaments and social events being held throughout the year. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the Club. Details of membership fees, club sessions and the diary of events are available on our website. Club sessions are held every day except Fridays (see below) and members may book a court free of charge outside these times. Club Session Times (check website for updates) Mondays 10.00 - 11.30am adult session Tuesdays 6.00 - 8.00pm adult session Wednesdays 9.30am - 12.00 adult session Thursdays 10.00 - 11.30am adult session Saturdays 10.30am - 12.00 adult session Sundays 9.30am - 12.00 family session Coaching Seventeen children from three to ten years old participated in the Easter coaching sessions held on our courts on 9th & 10th April (pictured). The next coaching sessions for juniors will be held in June. Club coach Matt Fellingham will be starting a six-week course. Cost is ÂŁ25 per child and participants will receive a brand new racquet, tennis balls, t-shirts and lots of giveaways courtesy of the LTA. Courses can be booked at www.mftennis.com or direct with Matt Fellingham on 07779 273655. 20

Court Bookings Following the refurbishment of our courts, non-members may book a court outside club sessions times at The British Queen. Bookings can be made up to two weeks in advance. The cost is £5 per hour to be paid at the time of booking. There is always someone at The British Queen from 8.00am every day to deal with enquiries. You will be given an access code for the tennis court gate. Please remember to lock the court upon departure. We hope that many of you will take advantage of the lovely new courts this summer. Christine Knight Wins Outstanding Achievement Award In March, Club member, Christine Knight (pictured right with former British professional tennis player Danny Sapsford) was presented with an Outstanding Achievement Award by Cambridgeshire Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) for her services to tennis. In April, Christine was also announced as the winner of the Outstanding Achievement Award for the East of England region. Christine will be invited to receive her award at one of the LTA’s pre-Wimbledon events this summer, where she will be presented with the trophy on court. As a regional winner she will also be entered for the national finals. Christine’s awards are very well-deserved and come following her involvement as a volunteer for both Royston and Meldreth Tennis Clubs, serving in various posts on the committees for over 20 years. Having overseen the project to rebuild the dilapidated courts on Therfield Heath for Royston Tennis Club from 2008-2010, Christine joined the committee of Meldreth Tennis Club last year to help provide the club with new courts and to increase membership. She quickly raised the money needed and the Club now has two brand new LTA standard courts, which opened in August last year. Membership has since tripled to 110. Meldreth Tennis Committee 21

Flood Avoidance Committee Tour On the rainy day of 9th April, the Meldreth Flood Avoidance Committee, joined by the County Council’s head of Highways, toured some of the village’s current hot spots. Every year in the past, we have started at the Village Hall and concentrated on the southern end of the village, but this year we started from the north and worked down to the Village Hall. We decided to focus on the following three areas: 1.

Malton Lane, corner near North End: an impromptu lay-by has been created by large vehicles digging into and eradicating the verge. This has literally mucked up a key drainage link and created an immediate threat of household flood damage. To our surprise and delight, County Highways said this was their responsibility, and promised to provide verge restoration and kerbing to prevent repetition of the problem, as well as clearance of the under-street pipe – although the ditch on the other side of the road into which this pipe feeds urgently needs clearing.

2.

The Stocks: say no more! - drains here have been totally blocked for weeks, creating a huge area of perpetual sogginess with innumerable risks to safety and property damage. This will be cleared and investigated by Highways as a matter of urgency.

3.

The drainage system near High Street/Elin Way junction was meant to have been ‘dealt with’ two years ago but wasn’t. A plan was made and execution by Highways will happen soon, they promised.

Meanwhile, what are your responsibilities as a property owner? If you are new to your property and have a watercourse or ditch running through it or along your boundary, you may have ‘riparian’ responsibilities – meaning that you are responsible for keeping these channels clear. Drainage ditches run along many village roads and gardens in Chiswick End, North End, Malton Lane, Whitecroft Road, Bell Close, Howard Road, etc. If your ditch is full of brambles, bullrushes, or is overgrown in some way, it needs to be clear – because one blockage affects the whole system. If you feel overwhelmed by this prospect or have any questions of any kind, please do get in touch and we’ll do our very best to help. 22

Or you can ask for a copy of the leaflet on riparian responsibilities from the Parish Clerk by telephoning (01763) 269928 or emailing parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk.. Thanks very much. Susan van de Ven, Rob Searles, Joan Fallon Flood Avoidance Committee

Meldreth Futures Group www.meldrethfutures.org.uk If you have an interest in how Meldreth can continue to thrive, then please pass your ideas on to our Meldreth Futures working party. Meldreth Parish Council currently has funds available for suitable projects to benefit our Community. For example, Meldreth Futures are currently working on ideas for improving the recreation ground so that it may be used by all ages; your views would be appreciated. The Group is also interested in updating the 2005 Meldreth Parish Plan, which is now called a Community Led Plan. Residents who have a passion for improving their environment should consider contacting us as we would appreciate your support; all ages welcome. Visit our website, www.meldrethfutures.org.uk for further information on funding and an application form; we can help you complete the form if needed. Our email contact is admin@meldrethfutures.org.uk or contact our Parish Clerk, Judy Damant, by emailing parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk or telephoning (01763) 269928. Joan Gane Meldreth Futures Group

Did You Know? Meldreth Matters is also available online. To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow us on Issuu: https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters. 23

County Councillor’s Report 127 Bus and Bus User Group Meeting The subsidy for this bus has been protected until April 2019. At that point the Council says it is the Mayor’s responsibility to take over, given that the Mayor and the Combined Authority are now the county’s Transport Authority. Unfortunately the Mayor’s Bus Review, promised last November, hasn’t started yet. Bus User Group meetings rotate between Bassingbourn and Meldreth, which is where most passengers for the 127 bus service board and alight. Our most recent meeting was held in Meldreth in April. Charging for Services You’ll see in my reports that there are various services for which the Council is initiating a new charging system. This is a direct outcome of depleted coffers, and the charges are simply a different drain on the taxpayer. Charges for Cambridgeshire Library Computers Internet Usage A new charging system will be put in place for use of library computers (but not at Melbourn Hub which lends out its own laptops and is supported by volunteers). This is to raise revenue, and is a controversial decision that did not receive everyone’s vote. It will cost £18,800 for software installation to create the system, and we know that people using library computers to look for work will be disadvantaged. Charges will not apply if searching on gov.uk (including universal jobmatch on the gov.uk site) or the Council website, but if you are searching for job opportunities more generally, doing research on job openings or emailing firms, you will have to pay a fee. And in order to maintain many benefits, you have to continue to look for and apply for jobs, and this is now done mainly online. There are many questions as to how all this will work, and how strictures governing searches will be implemented. It will be almost impossible for the charging system and the staff to tell whether a particular job-search activity is related to a benefits application or not. As more exemptions are created to try and make the policy less offensive, the less revenue is created and one reaches the point very quickly where one has to ask ‘why bother to charge at all?’ A motion was brought to the March County Council meeting to do away with the charge, which I supported, but this was lost. 24

Potholes: a Motion to Council You will know that potholes need to reach ‘statutory intervention levels’ before they can be treated. At the full council meeting on Tuesday 20th March, I seconded a motion to take a strategic initiative in augmenting funding to deal with highways maintenance, as the current situation is one of ‘managed decline’. To the surprise of many, the chairman of the Highways Committee insisted that the current state of our roads is simply a bit of end-of-winter nuisance and that Cambridgeshire is the leader in the East of England in dealing with highways maintenance. Our highways officers do a tremendous job in difficult circumstances, but do not have the resources to do what’s needed to prevent further decline. The motion was lost. [For more on potholes and how to report them, see pages 26-27.] Community Sweeper The volunteers will shortly be out driving the sweeper, starting with the A10 path. Due to purdah ahead of elections there will be no publicity. Date for A10 Resurfacing This work has been scheduled for the weekend of Saturday 2nd to Sunday 3rd June, therefore avoiding the weekend of the Melbourn Fete. Flood Avoidance Tour I arranged with Highways for another Flood Avoidance tour to take place on Monday 9th April. [See separate report on pages 22-23.] Susan van de Ven, County Councillor Susanvandeven5@gmail.com 07905 325574

Village Garden Services

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The Great Pothole Repeal Bill What’s happening to our roads and pavements? I’ve been overwhelmed by reports of potholes and their impact: tyre blow-outs, falling off bikes, near-misses by swerving drivers and cyclists etc. In an average year, Cambridgeshire Highways receives 7,500 pothole reports yet in the first three months of 2018, 9,000 reports have been received! My email system crashed the other night when someone dutifully sent me several dozen photographs of potholes near their home. Unfortunately, these didn’t contribute to the public record because I had to delete them all in order to get my email functioning again. What can you do? As annoying and frustrating as it is, please go on-line and report every Duck tests pothole in your street. This will create intervention level an accurate public record, and decisionmakers will no longer be able to say that this is just a bit of nuisance, which is the official line by Cambridgeshire County Council. So, go to the CCC’s ‘Report a Fault’ webpage, www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ residents/travel-roads-and-parking/roads-and-pathways/roadworks-andfaults. You will instantly be able to see your addition to the public map of faults. You can upload a photograph, which helps. Please feel free to include your rubber duckie in any pothole when you take a picture to upload to the website given above. You can also lodge a request for reimbursement for damages. Please do this. The PDF form is at the bottom of the online form. And if you don’t have a computer, please write down and send me the precise location and exactly what the problem is (i.e. pothole measuring x by x, y deep, 10 yards north of the junction of z and y streets), and I will forward it to CCC. When? Now!! And if you want to moan at someone or need help filling out the forms, please come to my next 26

drop-in surgery [see page 14] or ring or write to me at any time. It’s up to decision makers at the council and central government to invest properly in our infrastructure and that costs money and requires long-term financial planning. If you want more background on the whys and wherefores, I’ve posted a blog on my Facebook site and website; just Google ‘Sebastian’s Pot Hole Primer’ and it will come up quickly.

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27

District Councillor’s Report Fire Authority The Home Secretary has accepted the ‘independent’ assessment of the PCC’s (Police & Crime Commissioner) proposal to take over running the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Fire & Rescue Service. A well-run organisation headed by elected members from across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough now becomes an adjunct to the PCC. Slowly we are seeing the democratic element of our way of life being replaced by an American-lite style of presidential rule by decree. We have lost councillor input into the Police Authority, the Fire Authority (going, probably), Transport (gone, to the Mayor) and Strategic Planning (also gone to the Mayor). It’s a worry. It has also been confirmed that the PCC is decommissioning all rural police stations and closing some. Warranted officers will now be based only in the four major stations, at Parkside, Huntingdon, Peterborough and Ely. Ely Southern Bypass The Ely Southern Bypass, well supported by everyone, is already over budget. The County Council is being asked to note the increase in scheme costs and is requested to allocate the additional funding of £13m required to complete the scheme. Why? Because at the time ‘it was considered that expedient delivery was the priority and that time allowed in the procurement process for tendering and the time allowed in the contract for stage 1 design should be kept to a minimum. This approach meant that many potential engineering and third party issues were not able to be fully considered in the Stage 1 contract’. If this was a business, heads would be rolling! Burglaries Update My house got the treatment around 6.00pm on the Sunday before Easter when thankfully no one was in. This is the third time in as many months that a house on Fenny Lane has been burgled. My heartfelt thanks go to Joseph Birch, Carla and Thomas’ son, who noticed the break in and alerted my family. He is a local hero. Marley Appeal The deadline for written representations has been extended to Thursday 3rd May. Send your submission giving this reference: APP/W0530/ W/17/3186104 to east1@pins.gsi.gov.uk.

28

Local Plan At the April meeting, planning committee members were told to work on the assumption that SCDC’s housing land supply is 4.8 years although the District Council is supposed to have a five year housing land supply at all times; this is why the Local Plan has been suspended for much of my four year term. The Planning Inspector has not indicated when she will submit her judgment on the modified plan. Designation Because SCDC has exceeded the threshold on quality of decisionmaking, it is at risk of losing its status as a planning authority because it is judged to be so poor at making correct decisions. The threshold is that no more than 10% of planning appeals must be overturned by the planning inspector. Government must now decide whether to remove this status and take over the planning role. If this happens, the Council also loses the revenue from planning applications even though it still has to do all the work. Referrals to SCDC Planning Committee Many parish councils and councillors have been frustrated that requests for planning applications to be decided by the planning committee have been regularly refused. Apparently once a five year housing land supply is secured, there will be more opportunities for applications other than the large unplanned speculative ones, to be heard by the committee. After April, a review is likely of the scheme of delegation for the new combined planning service, when the councils will look again at the types of applications which can be decided by officer delegated powers. Parish Councils will be involved in this review. Potholes and Pavements [see pages 26-27] Many of the telephone calls I receive are related to the dreadful state of repair of our roads and pavements. A cyclist was forced by a car to ride into a pothole opposite the Manor School Car Park last week and was thrown off his bike. Someone is going to get seriously injured soon. Purdah SCDC is in purdah now until the local election on Thursday 3rd May. This means that no key decisions can be taken within this time. Please note my change of email address given below.

29

Councillor Philippa Hart Meldreth and Shepreth Ward philippajoyhart@gmail.com 07811 323571

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Volunteering Opportunities Speedwatch South Cambridgeshire has active and very enthusiastic Speedwatch groups and would welcome new volunteers to help them run more sessions. The Community Speedwatch scheme trains volunteers from members of the community to get actively involved in monitoring the speed of vehicles travelling through their neighbourhood. Volunteers are trained to use speed indicator devices which display vehicle speeds. The registered owner of any vehicle seen exceeding the speed limit is sent an advisory letter by the Constabulary, explaining that speeding is unacceptable to the local community and asking them to be more considerate. Volunteers typically offer one to two hours a month helping to reduce the speed of vehicles driving through their neighbourhood. There is no expected time commitment, volunteers attend sessions when they like, and it's a great opportunity to meet new people, and enjoy the activity whilst benefiting your community. Volunteers are fully trained and insured by the Constabulary. Training sessions will be held on Saturdays 12th May, 9th June and 14th July starting at 10.00am in Cambourne Police Station. If you would like to attend please book a space via email. For more information visit the Speedwatch website, www.speedwatch.info or email speedwatch@cambs.pnn.police.uk. Meldreth has an active Speedwatch group. If you are interested in participating or simply want to know more, contact Graham on gvborgo@borgognon.net. Mike Brooks Police, Watch Co-Ordinator, Cambridgeshire

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Meldreth Village Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thur

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

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group 6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00am-10.00 Elections

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 5.30pm Veg Club Plus, 45 North End 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 8.00-9.00pm Strutology

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group 6.00-7.00 Brownies

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates 7.30pm WI

10.00am-12.00 Handbells 10.40-11.30am Library 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 8.00pm Prayer Group 8.00-9.00pm Strutology

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group 6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

2.00pm Good Companions

8.00-9.00pm Strutology 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

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

7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

7.30pm Annu Meeting, Gre

12.00-2.00pm British Queen

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

9.15-11.15am Baby & Toddler Group 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 10.00am-12.00 Handbells

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

7.30pm Annu Meeting

8.00-9.00pm Strutology 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

Half Term

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells 5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts 7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics 7.00-10.00pm Crafters 8.00-9.00pm Strutology Half Term

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

Half Term

Half T

Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 meetings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Brownies, Messy Churc Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the lay-by opposite Holy Tri 32

Diary - May 2018

sday

0pm Local

d

m Fitness

Friday

Saturday

7.00 - 9.00pm Table Tennis 8.30-11.00pm Live Rock Music with Freak Barn Accident, Eternit Sports and Social Club

9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Children’s Club 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

8.00pm FOHT AGM, Holy Trinity Church (see page 46)

8.00am Holy Communion

ual Parish en Room

Copy deadline for May issue of MM

3.30-5.30pm Messy Church, Holy Trinity Church (see back cover) 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

m Pub Club, n

9.45am Family Communion for Pentecost and New Seekers Children’s Club

m Fitness

5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

m Table

m Fitness

Sunday

7.00 - 9.00pm Table Tennis

9.45am Family Communion for Trinity Sunday and New Seekers Children’s Club

ual Village

5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

m Fitness

m Table

Refuse Collections Black bins: 15th, 30th* Blue & Green bins: 9th*, 22nd * late collections due to public holidays

Term

North End. Cam Valley Crafters, Good Companions and Meldreth Local History Group ch & Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group meet in the Holy Trinity meeting room. The nity Church. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated. 33

The Letting Centre Established 23 years, The Letting Centre is a local, dedicated letting agency based in Melbourn. With longstanding clients some of whom have been with us for 20 years or more, we aim to provide a personal, tailored service covering Cambridge, Royston, Buntingford, Saffron Walden and surrounding villages. We offer discounted fees for multiple properties, as well as those located in Melbourn and surrounding area. Call us for a free market appraisal and comprehensive landlord pack. The Letting Centre, 24b Orchard Road, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 6HH Tel. 01763 263039 email enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk

Richard Burns ELECTRICIAN For repairs, installation & advice please call

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34

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Extracts from the unapproved Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 5th April 2018 in the Green Room of Meldreth Village Hall. Present: Councillor R Goddin, Chairman, Councillor N Pellatt, Vice Chairman, Councillor C J Fallon, Councillor R James, Councillor A Keena, Councillor C A Land, Councillor D Lee, Councillor R A Searles and Councillor A Young. In attendance: J Damant, Clerk, Councillor S van de Ven (CCC), Councillor P Hart (SCDC) Apologies for absence: None Public Participation: There were eight members of the public in attendance; no comments were made. Report from District Councillor See pages 28-29. Also noted that the Police Community Support Officer will be checking areas in the village including Fenny Lane, where there have been recent burglaries. Report from County Councillor See pages 24-25. Potholes were discussed and it was suggested that residents should report these to CCC; photographs would also be helpful. [See pages 25 and 26-27 for more on potholes.] Office IT Computer system The Clerk reported that the system is up and running. Broadband will now be switched to British Telecom. Meldreth Futures Working Group Councillor Goddin reported on the meeting held a few days previously. Issues under review include: ďƒž The proposal in respect of Melbourn Area Youth Development, for which more information is sought. ďƒž A progress report from Meldreth Tennis Club on the public court booking system. 35

ďƒž General issues on data protection rules. ďƒž A survey to be carried out at the Primary School to help identify possible projects for the recreation ground, for which an overall plan will be needed. The second set of goal posts for the five-a-side pitch will be installed shortly. Mettle Hill Working Group Councillors Goddin and James, with District Councillor Hart, recently attended a meeting with SCDC planners to discuss their views on possible residential and other uses of our site. We continue to await the appeal decision on the Marley Eternit application. In the meantime, discussions will continue with the planners, with the three leading park homes companies who have now provided further information, and with other interested parties, Marley Eternit Appeal Philip Kratz has produced a further draft for submission to the Inspector hearing the Appeal; this draft embodies the comments made at the previous Parish Council Meeting. The deadline for submissions has now been extended to Thursday 3rd May 2018. We have been provided with a copy of the SCDC submission and consideration will now be given to any consequential amendments to our submission. If so, a further Extraordinary Council Meeting will be convened for Thursday 26th April 2018. Otherwise the document was approved for submission. S106 Marley Eternit Contributions For the avoidance of doubt, it was agreed to confirm our original submission, noting that some items might be reassigned to other projects. S106 Application with Regard to Meldreth Primary School The Parish Council had previously considered some specific requests relating to the possible approval of a major housing scheme in Melbourn and how the consequential use of Meldreth Primary School might have impacted on Meldreth village. Since that housing scheme has now been refused, there is no longer a need to pursue this subject. Security for Pavilion It was reported that the CCTV installation will shortly be completed.

36

Church Wall Councillor James representatives.

will

arrange

a

meeting

with

the

Church

Playground Councillor Fallon reported that all equipment is in order but that the grass under the zip wire is wearing, possibly due to recent wet weather. It was agreed to monitor the situation and to consider taking the zip wire out of commission during severe weather conditions. The twoseat benches will be installed shortly. Street Light Survey Balfour Beatty has completed the survey and will be asked to cost the replacement of all thirteen lights instead of a phased replacement over several years. Proposed Closure of Railway Crossing on Footpath 10 Councillor James said that there was nothing to report as this matter is still under legal review. Defibrillators Magnets with access information have been distributed throughout the village. Training will now take place and there will be an appeal for more volunteers. The second defibrillator will shortly be installed in the North End telephone box, but it was noted that we are waiting for the red paint required to restore the box. Clerk’s Report The Village Hall management has agreed that the Parish Council can store archived material there. CCC will be replacing street lanterns along Whaddon Road and Burtons. Housing Survey Carried out by ACRE ACRE (Cambridgeshire Action with Communities in Rural England) has identified an affordable housing need of 45 homes in the village and has presented a lot of other interesting information. ACRE will be asked to give a presentation to the Village Meeting scheduled for Thursday 24th May 2018. Bus Users’ Group The group had a meeting scheduled for Wednesday 18th April; it was agreed to meet the cost of this meeting, to be held in Elin Way Community Room, at a rate of £5 per hour. 37

Burial ground Rabbits: it was agreed to purchase nets (at a maximum cost of £50) to enable our volunteer rabbit catcher to carry on his work at the burial ground. Rules and Regulations: detailed discussion deferred to the next meeting. WW1 Memorial Figure A proposal to erect a ‘Tommy’ silhouette figure near the War Memorial will be brought to the May meeting with costings and further information. GP Provision Barrington Parish Council has arranged a meeting to discuss providing health care facilities using pooled S106 funds from affected villages. Representatives of Meldreth Parish Council will attend this meeting. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) With the new and more intensive data protection regime coming into force next month, it was agreed to contract LCPAS (Local Council Public Advisory Service) to perform the data protection officer role at an annual cost of £300, and to review this prior to the next renewal. Councillors’ Reports Councillor Searles reported that he had investigated the non-delivery of the SCDC Magazine to certain parts of the village. This should now be corrected. The latest magazine indicated possible grants for street lights. Councillor Land enquired about progress towards installing bollards around the Stocks area; further information is awaited. With the Local Elections impending, Councillor Goddin thanked all Councillors for their work on council business and especially those who may not be standing for re-election. Dates of Forthcoming Meetings  Annual Parish Meeting; Thursday 10th May 2018, 7.30pm Green Room, Meldreth Village Hall  Annual Village Meeting: Thursday 24th May 2018,

7.30pm Village Hall Meldreth Parish Council The official Minutes of Meldreth Parish Council are those signed in Public Meetings by the Chairman. They are available for public inspection from the Clerk and can also be accessed on the Parish Council website at www.meldreth-pc.org.uk or on the Parish Council notice boards, opposite the One Stop Shop and at the corner of Elin Way and Whitecroft Road.

38

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

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

(01763) 262822

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

Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061

goddin@btinternet.com

Dr R James

(01763) 261085

roger@rogerjames.net

Mr A Keena

(01763) 260267

alankeena@aol.com

Mr C A Land

(01763) 261004

c.land963@btinternet.com

Mr D Lee

(01763) 261571

david@oakrits.plus.com

Mr Nigel Pellatt (Vice Ch) (01763) 262444

nppellatt@btconnect.com

Mr R A Searles

(01763) 260435

robert.searles@btinternet.com

Mr A Young

(01763) 263484

andrewmpc@gmail.com

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39

Neighbourhood Watch HMRC Scams We have had two recent reports of the following HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) scam being attempted on Meldreth residents. Scammers claiming to be from HMRC call or leave a voicemail, threatening legal action or ‘dire consequences’. Luckily, both victims released that it was a scam and ended the call, but the tone of the calls was extremely threatening and hence upsetting to the victims.  HMRC will not call out of the blue and threaten any kind of action.  If a caller gets threatening or aggressive, that's a sure sign that it's a scam. End the call immediately. In another HMRC scam, you may receive a text message inviting you to click a link to claim your ‘tax refund’.  HMRC will not send a text message offering you a refund; they will send a P800 letter in the post.  Always beware of clicking any links in an unsolicited text message or email. If you're not sure whether a telephone call, email or text message is genuine, talk to someone else for advice; there are a number of trusted contacts in Meldreth to whom you can talk or report a possible scam: Graham (01763) 260 358 Peter (01763) 260323 Linda (01763) 261 405 Tim (01763) 262801 When a scam is reported, with your agreement it will be circulated as an alert to Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators in Meldreth (names, addresses and other details will not be circulated). It may also be included in a Meldreth Matters article (again anonymously) to warn other readers (that's where the information about the first scam in this article came from). However, you should also always report the scam to Action Fraud, which is the UK National Fraud & Cyber reporting centre: call 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk. For more information on Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Graham Borgonon on (01763) 260358. Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch 40

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41

Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group In March, we met in Melbourn. After our usual prayer, Anne Harrison read the notices and we remembered one our members Marion Farr, who very sadly died recently. We were to have had a talk by Audrey Drage on “Macular Degeneration”, but unfortunately Audrey was ill and cancelled. We will however, welcome her in the future as this would have been a very popular talk. Due to this last minute change, Anne Harrison and Angela Leach provided table quizzes which were good fun and resulted in some laughter and social chatter. Midway through we had our usual refreshments. Our next meeting will be at 7.45pm on Tuesday 22nd May in All Saints Community Hall, Melbourn when we have our summer supper. Tickets are available from the committee. If you would like a lift, please contact one of our committee members: Pat Smith on (01763) 262575, Anne Harrison on (01763) 261775, Sue Toule on (01763) 260955 or Angela Leach on (01763) 262793. Angela Leach

Meldreth WI How nice to see some new members and guests at our April meeting. Mrs Bates welcomed everyone and gave the announcements of forthcoming events, perhaps you may like to try your hand at dowsing Why can the rods shake for some and not others? There is a trip to London theatre land to see 42nd Street also a visit to Woburn Abbey gardens. Something to suit all tastes as you can see by the new 2018-19 programme (see facing page). The weekly walk still continues even though wellies and sou’westers have been needed some days. Kathleen Doggett then explained how ‘Flowers Can Be Fun’. Kathleen’s mother was very keen on flower arranging and even though Kathleen had no plans to follow in her footsteps, she gradually started to do some arrangements. She then sat and passed her City and Guilds exam and became a member of the East of England Flower Club. Kathleen did three beautiful arrangements showing the different 42

shapes to use and gave us tips on how to make our flowers last a bit longer. Three ladies were very pleased to win the arrangements in the raffle later on. Next month Carol Banks will be showing us how silver can be obtained from natural sources. If you would like to join us please do so. We meet in Meldreth Village Hall at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of every month. If you feel you may like someone to go with for the first time, please get in touch with Mrs Jane Bates on (01763) 261638 and she will arrange for you to meet member to come with. Kathleen Thompson

Meldreth WI Programme, 2018-19 2018 14th June

Ely Cathedral. An interactive Talk Jan Munt

12th July

Out for a meal

9th August

Tropical Rainforests and Other Wild Places Chris Knowls

13 September

Royal Protection Officer (Armed Police) Robert Burrage

11th October

The Laughter Specialists

8th November

Card Making Helen Piggot

13th December

Christmas Meal T B A

2019 10th January

Flanders and Swan: A Talk and Songs Rex Freeman

14th February

A Magic Lantern Show Richard and Jan Rigby

14th March

AGM

11th April

An Unexpected Journey A Woman’s Role Catherine Armstrong

9th May

My Dog’s Nose Geoff Lambert Kathleen Thompson 43

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Maycroft Care Home The residents and staff at Maycroft are feeling excited and happy about the prospect of moving into their new accommodation in Meldreth within the next few months. Like many building projects, the original completion date was delayed but we now eagerly anticipate the prospect of a move during the summer months. Although we accept there will be a period of transition when familiar comforts and surroundings are exchanged for new ones, many things will remain reassuringly unchanged. The residents’ social calendar will not be disrupted and the many any varied outings will go ahead as planned. Activities are one of the many vital services provided at Maycroft which help residents to achieve a sense of inclusion and of wellbeing. We will continue to introduce new interests which are tailored to meet the individual needs of the residents. Monday mornings start with a chair-based exercise session. These are very well attended and always end with a coffee break and lots of laughter. Reviewing the daily newspapers keeps everyone up to date with current affairs and Yesterday’s Memories prompt residents to recall their achievements and the milestones shared with their friends and families over the years. The Community Car Service is invaluable and enables Maycroft Residents accompanied by staff to go out and about to local garden centres, shops and supermarkets. Maycroft Care Home has recently welcomed quite a few new residents and our invitation to Meldreth residents and wider community remains unchanged. Please call in to say ‘hello’; your visit would be appreciated by the staff and people who live here. Best wishes to you all. Jane,Carol and Ray

New to the village? Information on village facilities and over 30 local groups is available at

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk 45

Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk Blue Skies Swing Band Concert - 14th April Led by Maria McElroy, the band gave an excellent re-creation of American Big Band music from the 1920s to the 1950s with their seventeen-piece line up of five saxophones, four trombones, four trumpets and a four-piece rhythm section, complemented by two vocalists. Of the tunes played many were linked to famous bands like Glen Miller’s ‘Tuxedo Junction’ and ‘In The Mood’ which had a resounding saxophone introduction. The evening also included Duke Ellington’s ‘Caravan’, Benny Goodman’s ‘How High The Moon’, Count Basie’s ‘Li’l Darlin' and ‘Jumping At The Woodside” and Bob Crosby’s ‘South Rampart Street Parade’. There were two poignant saxophone solos by Maria McElroy, one of Errol Garner’s ‘Misty’ and the other of Earle Hagen and Dick Rogers’s ‘Harlem Nocturne’. The vocalists, Iris Dipple and Ian Hunt sang a range of songs individually with one duet of ‘Something Stupid’ which was famously recording by Frank Sinatra and his daughter Nancy. To conclude the evening the band played their signature tune, Irving Berlin’s ‘Blue Skies’. The event was very well attended, with over 70 people filling the church pews and it raised funds to cover the cost of the band and made a decent profit towards our Fabric Fund objectives.

This Month’s Event: Friday 11th May, 8.00pm AGM in the Church Meeting Room The architects quinquennial inspection report has recently been received, covering the condition of the fabric of the church, and an item on the agenda will be to review contributions to support future fabric projects.

Future Events: Sunday 3rd June Open Gardens A chance to visit a selection of gardens in the village plus a plant stall, other attractions in the church and teas in the Meeting Room. This year we are planning to include gardens from the Church to the station. Sunday 2nd September 14th annual Churchyard Car Show 46

Saturday 20th October “TEU World Tour” by Peter Hesketh A circumnavigation of the world by container ships - positively not a cruise. John Price

Forthcoming Local Events Friday 1st June The Adventures of Dr Dolittle Fowlmere Village Hall Recreation Ground, SG8 7RY Illyria will be performing Hugh Lofting’s The Adventures of Dr Dolittle. This is a funny, much-loved and exciting adventure, with a strong message about responsibility to animals and the environment. This will be Illyria’s seventh annual outing to Fowlmere, each performance has been thoroughly enjoyable. Dr Dolittle is suitable for ages 5+. Running time is 1hr 40mins, including a short interval. Gates open at 6.30pm for the 7.30pm performance; bring a picnic and something to sit on. Tickets are £14.00 adults, £7.00 Child (5-16). Available from illyria.co.uk (+5% fee), call (01763) 208516 or from Foxton and Thriplow Village Shops. This is a fund-raising event in aid of Fowlmere Village Hall, charity number 284524. Friday 22nd - Sunday 24th June Wimpole History Festival Wimpole Hall, SG8 0BW A feast of history and heritage for the whole family including talks, debates, book signings and performances, as well as rich, interactive living history through the ages, historical walking tours, workshops, activities and events for young history-lovers, all set in the glorious parkland of the Wimpole Estate. Speakers include: Alice Roberts · Dan Jones · Jenni Murray · David Olusoga · Mary Beard · Philip Ardagh · Sarah Churchwell · Christopher de Hamel · Sarah Dunant · Daniel Beer. See http://www.wimpolehistoryfestival.com for the full programme. Box office now open. See website for details. 47

Local Events in May To have your event listed, please email: meldrethmatters@hotmail.com. Thursday 3rd May, 12.15pm to 2.15 pm (buffet from 12.15pm) Literary Lunch, Old Bull Inn, High Street, Royston SG8 9AW Local entertainer Jude Simpson hosts a chat with Dame Fiona Reynolds DBE, Master of Emmanuel College and former Director-General of the National Trust. Tickets £15 from (01763) 262262; admin@hsrc.org.uk or www.ticketsource.co.uk/hsrc. All proceeds to Royston and South Cambridgeshire Home Start. Friday 4th to Monday 7th May, at varying times Ely Eel Festival A celebration of everything ‘eel’ over an action-packed weekend. Food and drink festival with celebrity chefs, Morris dancing, live music and the world eel-throwing championship (stuffed toy ones only!). For full details go to: www.elyeelfestival.co.uk or call Ely tourist office on (01353) 662062. Friday 4th May, 7.30pm Jazz at the Movies Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH Joanna Eden and the Chris Ingham Quartet put a jazzy spin on songs and soundtracks from classic films, including The Pink Panther, From Russia with Love and many more. Tickets £10 - £20 available from 0845 548 7650. Saturday 5th May, (NB) 5.00am! Dawn Chorus at Fowlmere Reserve, Cambridgeshire SG8 7SH Guided walk around the RSPB reserve to hear the birds greet a new day. Meet at reserve car park. No charge but donations welcome. Walk followed by hot drink and bacon roll with vegetarian option. Must book by phone: 07757 259696 or email: mel_brensmith@hotmail.co.uk. Sunday 13th May, 2.30 pm to 5.30pm Hinxton Watermill Open Day Mill Lane, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1RD 17th century timber framed mill restored to working order and open as part of National Mills Weekend (Saturday 12th/Sunday 13th May). For more information on the Hinxton mill visit: www.cambridgeppf.org. and for other mills open in the area: www.nationalmillsweekend.co.uk. 48

Monday 14th May to Wednesday 16th May, usually 7.00pm Pint of Science Festival, Cambridge - various locations Part of an international festival in nearly 300 cities across 21 countries, researchers based in Cambridge talk about their work and answer questions from the public. Variety of topics at pubs across the City. See: www.pintofscience.co.uk for programme and to book tickets (£4). Saturday 19th May, 8.30am: Men’s Breakfast Meeting Village Hall, Foxton, Cambridgeshire CB22 6RN This month’s guest speaker will be consultant surgeon Mr Leo Cheng who will talk about his work with the international charity, Mercy Ships. Contact Tony Garrick (01763) 221658; garrick.tony@gmail.com or Mark Howard (01223) 503377; mark-howard@uwclub.net to reserve your place. All are welcome. Saturday 19th May, 10.00am to 5.00pm Festival of Plants University Botanic Gardens, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE See the gardens brimming with Spring colour, take a free tour, visit popup plant science stalls - plus children’s activities, live music, food and refreshments. See: www.botanic.cam.ac.uk or phone (01223) 336265. Saturday 19th May, 9.00pm onwards Star Shine Night Walk Shelford Rugby Club, Shelford, Cambridgeshire CB22 5JJ Take part in 6.5 or 10 mile Neon night walk to raise funds for those affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. £17.50 per person to include T shirt, medal, celebration mug and hot drink plus bacon/veggie roll. Register at: www.starshinenightwalk.co.uk or call (01223) 675888. Monday 21st to Saturday 26th May, at varying times Cambridge Beer Festival, Jesus Green, Cambridge The oldest CAMRA festival and one of the largest in the country returns for its 45th year. Huge variety of British/foreign beers. For admissions times and prices: www.cambridgebeerfestival.com or (01223) 631413. Wednesday 23rd May, 6.00pm to 9.00pm Wild Rose Cottage - Open Garden for National Garden Scheme Near Lode, Cambridgeshire CB25 9EX A real cottage garden overflowing with plants, including roses climbing through trees, laburnum tunnel, circular vegetable garden and wildlife pond. Admission £6, children free. Call (01223) 811132. Compiled by John Crawforth 49

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What’s On for Children and Families in May Saturday 12th May and Sunday 13th May, 10.30am - 5.00pm Stotfold Mill Steam Fair and Country Show Mill Lane, Stotfold, Bedfordshire SG5 4NU Highlights include a stunt show, a clown and his crazy fire engine, falconry display, a traction engine tug-of-war, 17th century living history and artillery firing displays. Discounted tickets (purchase online by 11th May - £8 adults, £4 children, £23 for families); or purchase full price tickets on the days. Email: enquiries@stotfoldmill.com. Sunday 13th May, 11.00am - 5.00pm Ashwell at Home, Ashwell village SG7 5NP Open gardens, free children’s activities, arts and crafts - dancing, stories, music, Morris dancing, history talks, ‘Noah’s Flood’ play. Refreshments. Tickets £6 in advance, £7 on the day. Under 18s free. Book on: www.ashwellathome.org.uk. Sunday 13th May, 10.00am - 1.00pm Family Arts Studio, Broadway Studio and Gallery, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3ES Free, drop-in activity for ages 3+ on the second Sunday of each month. Hands-on activity led by artists and based on art in Broadway Gallery. This month’s theme is Model Village. See: www.fantasticforfamilies.com. Saturday 26th May to Sunday 3rd June, 10.00am - 5.00pm Mermaid and Pirate Festival Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB Wear fancy dress and enjoy stories, face painting, games, crafts, train rides. See: www.audley-end-railway.co.uk for booking and prices. Thursday 31st May 10.30am or 2.00pm Cuckoos Calling, Wicken Fen, Lode Lane, Wicken CB7 5XP Find out about cuckoos and join in games and craft activities. £5.50 per accompanied child (ages 5+). Book on 0344 249 1895. Thursday 31st May, 10.30am - 4.00pm Time Truck Archaeology Day, Tesco Bar Hill car park CB23 8EL Displays and activities for all the family. Discover the archaeological remains discovered during the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme. Free. For more information see www.molaheadland.com/events/A14C2H. Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 51

Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk I led an assembly in school about the life and achievements of Professor Stephen Hawking on the morning following his death in March. I was surprised and delighted by just how familiar the children were with him and many were aware too, of his scientific work. His legacy of course, also serves as an inspiration to us all in terms of perseverance in spite of disability, hardship or other barriers that may stand in our way. A number of Professor Hawking’s quotes are now displayed around the school and the children were themselves moved and inspired to suggest more of their own, which I have listed below.  Listen and work hard so you can reach your goals. Ben O  Do not let anyone or anything hold you back. Toby DS  Think of nice words to say to others rather than mean words. Rhys P  Help people on their journey of life, then maybe they will help you

on yours. Otto  Always have hope in yourself. Jayden  Work hard to get far! Ollie  Try your absolute best in everything. Charlie  You only have one life, so make the most of it! Lukas  You are not alone, so use the help that other people can offer you.

Rhys S  If it seems too hard, pray and God will help you. Tilly W  Make yourself be proud of yourself! Aliya  Getting frustrated is no way to live: life is too short so HAVE FUN!!

Eva R  Follow your dream and you can do whatever you want. Trixie 52

 You can’t live properly without a sense of humour!  Don’t be angry, it will just hold you back. Oscar  A day without laughter is a day wasted. Mason  Accept fear and don’t banish it. Fear is instinct and instinct is

required to drive you forward. Yunus  Set yourself a goal or you will have nothing to aim for. Toby L  You can be whatever you want to be. Ed R

Daniel Goodfellow In August 2016, I described in MM how my family and I gathered around a mobile phone to watch Dan Goodfellow dive with his partner, Tom Daley (pictured) in the synchronised 10m diving event at the Rio Olympics to take the bronze medal for team GB. As many readers will know, Dan attended Meldreth Primary School and was already seriously committed to diving training, with almost daily visits before school began to the diving pool in Cambridge as preparation for the rewards he is now reaping. This time, I was on the ferry from Arran back to Ardrossan at the end of the Easter holidays, where once more, modern technology allowed me to tune in live to the Commonwealth games from Australia as Dan once more dived to glory with Tom Daley, this time taking Gold in the men’s synchronised 10m diving competition. All of us at the Primary School (and I’m sure across the village) remain proud and delighted by Dan’s achievement, and send our heartfelt congratulations to another inspirational fellow! Andrew Jones Deputy Headteacher 53

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1st Melbourn Guides It’s not an urban myth; there really is a Guides chocolate badge! In the three weeks before Easter, our Guides learnt about the history of chocolate, the economics of Fair Trade and chocolate production, and drew a graph to compare their chocolate eating habits. They also learned to make fudge and dipped fruit into melted chocolate. The 22nd February is Scouts & Guides Thinking Day when we remember our founder Lord Baden Powell, and acknowledge the spread of Guiding around the world. We celebrated Thinking Day by sending home-made cards to our Guide pen-friends in Morley, playing History of Guiding dominoes, and learning about time zones and flying times to places around the world where there are Guides. The Guides always have a say in our weekly programme, and one request was a pamper evening, during which we had a go at face massage, nail buffing, and hair braiding. Cooking is always requested too, so one evening there was a cake decorating competition, and on another night two patrols competed to produce a Chinese meal from basic ingredients and flavourings. Other activities this term have included an evening at the swimming pool and a cake stall at Coffee Stop where we raised £26 for Wood Green Animal Shelter. If you would like to know more about joining our Guide unit or becoming a leader, or if you have any skills or hobbies which you would like to share with us, please contact me on (01763) 261443 or email melbournguides@gmail.com. Hilary Marsh

Joint Parish Prayer Group The Prayer Group will be meeting again on Tuesday 15th May at 8.00pm at 85 North End, Meldreth. Prayer requests are always welcomed and treated in the strictest of confidence. For more information, please contact me on (01763) 261365. Marion Long 55

News From Heidi Allen www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk Apparently spring is here, so I hope you have been able to enjoy the few days of sunny weather that made an appearance in between the showers! As many of you will be aware, the Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) has been consulting on whether there should be a Park and Ride near junction 11 of the M11. Many Harston residents were concerned about the plans so last month, I attended the GCP’s consultation event in Harston along with many residents, the Parish Council and local councillors. The GCP tried to reassure everyone that the proposed P&R would not add to traffic congestion through Harston. Because there will be even greater growth on the Addenbrooke's biomedical campus the GCP understandably want to discourage M11 traffic from driving towards the city centre. Since the meeting, I have spoken with local County Councillors Kevin Cuffley and Roger Hickford and at length with the GCP’s Chief Executive and Director of Transport. Although everyone recognises the enormous employment growth coming to the campus, I believe Harston residents need more data to be persuaded by the "no increased traffic through Harston" argument. I was therefore extremely pleased by the GCP Executive Board’s subsequent decision to request further analysis be undertaken and opinion sought before the project is brought back to committee for a decision. I will continue to work closely with the GCP, local councillors and the Mayor to ensure ALL options are looked at, and the best solution identified. We must find a solution that deals with City congestion, but not at the expense of our villages. If we can help Harston with their already well understood congestion at the same time, then even better. South Cambridgeshire continues to play a leading role in all things Brexit. This was recognised recently when Parliament’s Exiting the European Union Select Committee came to Cambridge to hear evidence from local stakeholders on the implications of Brexit for the science and research sector. I was pleased to able to attend the session as the Committee has an important role in examining the UK's continued involvement in EU-wide agencies and collaborative projects, access to research funding post-Brexit, and potential changes to the general regulatory environment. We have a wealth of experience on these 56

topics and I am pleased that local stakeholders, such as Cambridge University, Astra Zeneca and Cancer Research UK were invited to participate. Last month saw the consultation on the proposed closure of Cambridge Magistrates’ Court come to an end. The proposal would see noncustodial work transferred to Cambridge County Court and custodial work transferred to either Huntingdon, Peterborough or, in some cases, Cambridge Crown Court. I have been concerned about the lack of clear information surrounding the number of cases which would remain in Cambridge, how it would be decided which cases would be transferred out of Cambridge, the cost and appropriateness of using Cambridge County Court for Magistrates’ Court work, and importantly, how the needs of the most vulnerable court users would be met. The Ministry of Justice’s plans lacked information about exactly what the closure of Cambridge Magistrates’ Court might mean for my constituents so I wrote to the Ministry of Justice to seek more detailed information. Sadly, the information received has not diminished my concerns and I feel the consultation has been a missed opportunity to explain the plans with clarity. If you would like to read my submission to the Ministry of Justice, a copy is on my website - https:// www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/news/update-proposed-closure-cambridgemagistrates-court The Government has launched a call for evidence as part of its Cycle and Walking Investment Strategy safety review. The review will look at how road safety can be improved for all road users as well as looking at ways to boost walking and cycling. Here in South Cambridgeshire, we know the benefits of walking and cycling so this consultation really is welcome. Please do contribute and give the Government the benefit of our local experience! https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/ cycling-and-walking-investment-strategy-cwis-safety-review. On 18th May between 3.00pm and 5.00pm, I will be holding a “by appointment” surgery at my Sawston constituency office. If you would like an appointment, please give my office a call on (01223) 830087. Details of all upcoming surgeries can be found on my website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk. To contact me, please email heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk. You can also telephone my Westminster office on (020) 7219 5091 about national issues or my constituency office on (01223) 830037 for local concerns. Heidi Allen, MP 57

Planning Matters Parish Council Reference and Address

Detail

Land adjacent Proposed new to 27 Howard dwelling Road S/0757/18/FL Blenheim House 97 North End S/0828/18/FL

Proposed new access onto the highway, new access gates, removal of trees and erection of store to side of existing dwelling. Land to the Outline planning south of permission for Whitecroft residential Road, development of 9 S/0971/18/OL dwellings with some matters reserved, except for access.

Parish Council Recommend

Meldreth Planning Committee recommend ‘Support’ with comments. ‘That vehicles leave the premises forwards and therefore do not back out onto the road’. Meldreth Planning Committee recommend ‘Support’ with no comments.

Meldreth Planning Committee recommend ‘Refusal’ with comments. ‘The site lies outside the village development envelope, there are traffic and junction risks which include significant risks, the traffic survey does not demonstrate the density and composition of traffic, there will be additional traffic entering Whitecroft Road at a critical location; this is especially the case for fast moving traffic. There is also no reference to the removal of the ash tree (which has a TPO) in order to widen the access. 7 Brewery Rear two storey Meldreth Planning Committee Lane, extension and single recommend ‘Refusal’ with comments. Brewery storey garage side ‘There is concern with regards to the Farm, extension size of the development and that S/0844/18/FL neighbours may be overlooked by a large wall. It was also felt that the development is not in keeping with the area and is disproportionate.’ Woolpack Lawful development Meldreth Planning Committee Way, for proposed recommend ‘Support’ with no Ransome addition of a flat roof comments. Lodge, dormer to existing S/0903/18/LD loft conversion. 58

Reference and Address

Detail

Parish Council Recommend

126 High Fell three Leylandii type Street, trees in the rear garden. S/1181/18/TC This is in a conservation area.

SCDC Tree Officer has notified the Parish Council that this work is to be carried out due to health and safety. No discussion was taken.

25 North End, The Coppice, S/0981/18/FL

Meldreth Planning Committee recommend ‘Refusal’ with comments. ‘Even though the development is inside the village envelope so objections to size cannot be made it was felt that there were other factors to warrant a recommendation of refusal. There will be an issue of overlooking especially to No 29 and 25 North End is out of character to the area, will be overbearing to the neighbours and as the area is a conservation area it was also felt that the proposed style of the development would not be in keeping with the area.

Demolish existing first floor and roof and retain ground floor. Extend first floor to add bedrooms, change roof, alter front elevation, internal alterations and rear and side ground floor extension and new orangery.

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

SCDC Decisions Reference and Address

Decision

S/4314/17/LB, Malton Farm, Malton Lane

Permission granted for re-roofing of north elevation

S/0165/18/FL, 5 Oakrits

Permission granted for a single storey rear extension, loft conversion with addition of dormer window and associated alterations. Meldreth Parish Council

Editor’s Note: Full details of all planning applications may be viewed at this website: http://plan.scambs.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/wphappcriteria.display 59

Arthur Rank Hospice www.arhc.org.uk Arthur Rank Hospice cares for more than 3000 people each year who are living with a non-curable illness. This could include someone who has lung disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, certain forms of cancer and heart failure, or many other life-limiting conditions. For more information about Arthur Rank Hospice’s services please talk to your GP, call us on (01223) 675800 or visit our website, www.arhc.org.uk/arhc-services.asp. Arthur Rank Hospice needs to secure £7.45 million every year in order to deliver services free of charge. About half of this currently comes from statutory sources and we generate some income through our Bistro, education services conference facility and hairdressing salon. The remainder is generated thanks to the wider local community collectively and fondly known as Team Arthur. There are all kinds of ways you can help support us, whether through direct donations, volunteering, taking part in our events, donating to our shops, taking on personal challenges or leaving a gift in your will. Visit our website if you would like to find out more. Why not support us by registering for our night walk? Star Shine Night Walk, Saturday 19th May Light up the night on a 6.5 or 10 mile night walk, at this beautiful annual walk from 9.00pm. Since the event launched in 2008 it has raised £300,000 for the Hospice. This year we have 10th anniversary birthday surprises in store to help you find your glow. The £17.50 registration fee covers walk, goodies and refreshments with your sponsorship directed to patient care. Sign up or find out more at www.starshinenightwalk.co.uk or call Abi or Tasha on (01223) 675886 or 675891. Dawn Easby PR & Communications Officer, ARHC 60

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service Come and play! Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service launches new interactive resource for young people

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) has launched a new interactive online learning site to promote fire and road safety to young people across the county. Developed by Matmi, Sparkton is an online town that children can explore, play games and learn safety tips. From quizzes to spot the hazards, to testing road safety knowledge, there’s lots to see and do. The new initiative has been developed through a collaboration with a number of other fire services in England and Wales, including Cheshire, Leicestershire and Nottingham, where it has already proved popular. The educational game is targeted at children aged seven to eleven in Key Stage Two and can be accessed from home or at school, across all different devices and platforms. It has been designed to help the next generation learn about fire and road safety in safe environment. Head of Communication for CFRS, Hayley Douglas said: “Keeping people safe from fire and other emergencies is fundamental to everything that we do, and engaging young people is a big part of that. We already work with young people in schools and through our Firebreak courses, so this new online resource is a great addition for us. Sparkton is a fun resource that will educate young people on the importance of fire and road safety and how to keep themselves safe now and in the future. It’s also a great way for them to learn more about the fire service, and what we do in the community.” You can start playing on Sparkton at http://www.cambsfire.gov.uk/ games/sparkton. Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service 61

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