Meldreth Matters, May 2022

May 2022

In this issue …

Letters to the Editor Spring in Melwood The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Events …

Blue Skies Swing Band Messy Church PEA. By Nod at the Fox

Contact me, your Meldreth-based travel expert, for holidays, river and ocean cruises, honeymoons, UK breaks, bucket-list trips and more!

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1. Expert travel guidance 2. Personal caring service 3. ATOL & 100% Financial protection 4. Always available to take your call 5. Covid-19 guidance

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

Contents Children & Education 1st Melbourn Guides 12 Activities for Families 15 Messy Church 14 Primary School 16-17 Shepreth Spitfires FC 11

What’s On in May Blue Skies Swing Band 20 FOHT AGM 20 Messy Church 14 PEA. 14 Things to Do in May 22-23 Village Diary 28-29

Cookery In Praise of … 37-39

Village Groups Friends of Holy Trinity 20 Women’s Group 19

Local/National Government Local Councillors 44-48 Parish Council 40-43 Planning 50

Village News & Issues Easter Market 3 Letters to the Editor 25 Meldreth Village Hall 18 News from the British Queen 5 The Queen’s Jubilee 6-9

Advice/Information Advertisers’ Index 56 Coronavirus Support 52-53 Home-Start 51 Mobile Warden Scheme 18 Neighbourhood Watch 27 Refuse Collections 28-29 Village Directory 54-55

Gardens & Nature Gardening 30-31 Melwood 32-33 Wildlife Ponds 34

This month’s cover picture: Apple blossom in Cam Valley Orchard’s heritage orchard.

Photograph by John Crawforth, May 2018.

For information on Meldreth’s orchards, see www.meldrethhistory.org.uk/category/topics/meldreth_orchards

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.

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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Editorial Welcome to the May issue of Meldreth Matters.

The MM team is very grateful to Lesley Farbridge for her generous donation to Meldreth Matters following the Easter Market which was held in the Village Hall at the beginning of April (see below). Many thanks too, to the two families who gave us donations on the day. These were much appreciated and will be put towards printing costs.

There is plenty going on in the village this month. Events include the local elections, the Annual Parish Meeting, Messy Church, a performance for children in the Village Hall, a swing band at the church and a craft fair. See the centre pages diary for details.

Finally, plans for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in the village are progressing and will include a fete, street party and scarecrow festival. See pages 6-9 of this issue for further information on the weekend, including details of how to reserve your table for the street party.

Kathryn

Easter Market Thanks in part to some glorious spring weather, a steady stream of people visited the Easter Market on 3rd April. We are very grateful for all the support this event received from the people who helped set up, the stallholders who provided a wide range of crafts and plants, HomeStart for providing a variety of refreshments throughout the day, Meldreth Primary School PTA for organising Easter crafts for the children and of course everyone who came and browsed or bought.

It was very well supported and we were able to donate £342.00 to Meldreth Matters to help with its continued production. The Meldreth Matters team is most grateful for a couple of donations received from members of the public, which will go towards production costs.

Please make a note of the Christmas Market on 27th November and keep reading MM for updates. This should ensure a good weekend as the Christmas Tree Festival is planned for the 26th and 27th November and it will mean people will be able to visit both on the Sunday.

Lesley Farbridge lesleyfarbridge@hotmail.com 3

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News from the British Queen www.thebritishqueen.com In 2021, 450 pubs closed in the UK. Meldreth is fortunate in having a vibrant community pub, the British Queen, and we thought it would be appropriate for our village magazine to have a monthly feature detailing events at the pub.

You can also visit our website, www.thebritishqueen.com, or follow us on Facebook for more information.

Regular Events Our regular events include ...

Meat Raffle: This is run by Russell’s Butchers at 5.00pm every Sunday.

In the past, the money raised has been donated to Home-Start, but in the foreseeable future the money will go to a charity supporting Ukraine.

Darts League: This takes place on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm. The team plays at home and away at local pubs within the league on alternate weeks. Please come along and support the darts team.

Croquet Club: With summer approaching, the Croquet Club will be restarting. For information, contact Robert Skeen on (01763) 262269.

Future Events Queen’s Jubilee: The first weekend in June is the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, an amazing milestone. The pub will be open with Russell’s Butchers serving a hog roast and BBQ if you do not wish to bring your own picnic to the street party. We will have a bouncy castle in the garden and other children’s activities.

French Market: It is hoped to have a French market in the autumn, which will be centred around the British Queen. Watch this space for further details.

Private Events Don’t forget, the pub has a large marquee available for private hire, with seating and a fully stocked bar. For more details, please contact Jess on (01763) 260252.

Sue Tobin 5

The Queen’s Pla num Jubilee

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The Queen’s Pla num Jubilee Jubilee Community Church Fete Friday 3rd June, 11.30am onwards A big welcome to everyone for what we hope will be a truly community event and a fun day for all. Peter Allen (late of Radio 5 fame) will be opening the fete and keeping us all on track.

Why not bring the family for a BBQ? There will also be a licensed bar.

Our grateful thanks to the Elbourn and Tobin families for supporting us. There will, of course, be the usual delicious teas, coffees and cakes.

We will also have music, courtesy of Chris Elbourn’s band, the Lift Off Choir and the school choir.

Children’s activities will run throughout the day. There will be face painting for children and a tug of war at 3.00pm. Aurora Meldreth Manor and Maycroft will be running stalls and there will be several craft stalls run by Meldreth residents as well as a book stall and bottle stall. We will be collecting bottles in the two weeks before the fete.

We will have some jubilee baking and flower competitions, so please enter! People love to see what others in the village can do, especially the entries from children. Entry forms will be available on social media and will be distributed to the British Queen, the school, One Stop and Fieldgate. There will also be an entry form printed in next month’s Meldreth Matters. In addition, we can send a digital copy on request (see email addresses below).

Offers of plants, cakes and books will be gratefully received. Bring them with you on the day! You will be able to pay and donate by card.

The raffle prizes will include £100, £50 and £25 and an iced jubilee cake. A big thank you to all who have donated items.

Let’s hope for good weather and see you all there!

Pauline Penfold, penfold001@btinternet.com Julie Draper, juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk A big thank you to all our sponsors, including Roy Castle and TTP. 25% of the profits from the fete will go to local charities, and the rest equally divided between running the church and the fabric of the church which you all know is in a parlous state.

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The Queen’s Pla num Jubilee Jubilee Street Party – Sunday 5th June 2022 The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee is fast approaching and the Meldreth Jubilee Crew is planning a day for villagers of all ages to remember. We hope to have a street party on the High Street, but the precise location is yet to be decided, due to delays confirming the road closure. Reserve your table now to ensure you don’t miss out. Tables seat up to six and can be reserved through Joan Gane for £5. If you don’t have a full six, please let Joan know and we’ll gather people together. It will be a great way to get to know more people. There will be a prize for the best-dressed table, so get planning!

The party will run from 12 noon to 5.00pm. Feel free to dress-up and get out the red, white and blue and a flag for waving. You may bring your own food and drink or purchase a hog roast from Russell or drinks from the British Queen. You’ll also need to bring chairs and table decorations. Feel free to bring a gazebo to put over your table in case the weather is unkind. We’d appreciate it if you could bring bin bags and take your rubbish home.

Ahead of the day, children can display their artistic skills by entering our Queen’s portrait competition. Look out for details around the village on how to enter. The entries will be displayed in the Village Hall on the day and we’ll send the winning entry to the Queen.

The Village Hall will be open for teas from 3.00pm, with a book for you to write down and share your royal recollections. We would love to read about your memories of the day, other jubilees or royal occasions. Future generations will be able to read about this historic occasion direct from people who were there to celebrate the day. While you enjoy a cup of tea and a nibble in the Village Hall, we will have the children’s portrait entries on display and share pictures of the village on other memorable occasions.

There may be a special surprise, but our lips are sealed for now!

So, reserve your table, get planning and look forward to a special day.

Meldreth Jubilee Crew For table reservations or other questions about the day, please contact Joan Gane on (01763) 260129 or email jgane33@gmail.com.

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The Queen’s Pla num Jubilee

Meldreth Jubilee Scarecrow Festival Put out your scarecrows from 2nd - 5th June

Celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee with the second Meldreth Scarecrow Festival To be held on the long weekend of 2nd to 5th June Craft, build and decorate your scarecrow on the theme of Red, White and Blue.

Prizes!

More information will be in next month’s Meldreth Matters and on social media Please email meldrethscarecrow@gmail.com to register your entry 9

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Shepreth Spitfires Football Club www.sheprethspitfires.co.uk Our big news this month is that the whole club had an amazing Easter party. Lots of fun was had, with egg and spoon races, bouncy bunny races, drawing and colouring competitions, egg hunts, bingo and, of course, football :).

All age groups from under 7s to under 9s enjoyed the day and even older and younger siblings came down to the Eternit Sports and Social Club in Meldreth to party with their brothers and sisters.

We would like to say a huge thank you to all of the local businesses that supported the children's Easter Party raffle and to NU Homes for becoming our new kit sponsors for the U11s next season.

We will leave you with some photos of the day…

Lucy Smith Shepreth Spitfires

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1st Melbourn Guides Our Guides love baking, so to introduce the girls to product marketing and branding, we ran a Cookie Branding Enterprise Challenge this term. The patrols had to choose a target market, add flavours to a basic cookie dough, devise the packaging and create a simple TV advert. Three of the four patrols chose ‘kids’ as their target market, and added chocolate chips and fudge to an already sugar-laden recipe!

The ‘middle aged’ market had a cinnamon and chocolate version, in attractive gift boxes.

In February, a few of our girls (pictured) planted a flowering crab apple tree in Melbourn’s Millennium Orchard for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The new Guide programme offers a varied selection of Interest Badges; one of which is ‘Upcycling’; taking an unwanted object and making it into something attractive or useful. The girls brought in a variety of old clothes, and enjoyed cutting, stitching, pinning and painting them to create a variety of bags and unusual clothing, which they showed off in a fashion show at the end of the evening. The following week they made lavender bags from offcuts of fabric and dried lavender flowers and decorated recyclable household objects using decoupage techniques.

We finished the term with an evening hike on Therfield Heath. This was organised by Aliya, as part of her Guide Gold award. The girls were challenged to look after an injured marshmallow, making a mini stretcher and a waterproof shelter for it, before signalling for help using torches and Morse code. The marshmallows didn’t suffer at all, but the girls learnt about wind-chill and frozen fingers as a blizzard and icy winds blew in from the north!

Our unit is full and has a waiting list, but there are also Guide units in Orwell and Barrington. If you would like to know more about Guides, please contact me on (01763) 261443 or email melbournguides@gmail.com.

You can also look on the girlguiding.org.uk website to find out more.

Hilary Marsh 12

Meldreth Matters is produced entirely by volunteers and relies on income from advertising to cover printing costs.

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PEA. By Nod at the Fox Saturday 7th May, 2.00pm (doors open 1.45pm) Meldreth Village Hall Tiffany is twisting and turning and her mind won’t stop whirring - she just can’t fall asleep! She knows there must be a PEA hidden underneath her bed. As Tiffany adventures down through worlds of mattresses and mysteries, she meets the restless bed folk. Join Tiffany on her quest to find the PEA and get a good night's sleep.

Come along to Meldreth Village Hall on Saturday 7th May to enjoy a magical performance of 'PEA'.

PEA is for adventurers aged four and over and is filled with enchanting puppetry, intricate soundscapes and lots and lots of sheep!

The performance will last for about 50 minutes, though we'd love you to stay for a while afterwards to give us some feedback. The performance is absolutely free, but please book tickets so we don't go over capacity: www.ticketsource.co.uk/NodAtTheFox. I hope to see you there for this epic adventure! For further information, visit our website, www.nodatthefox.com, or feel free to contact me at info@nodatthefox.com if you have any questions.

This show has been supported by Arts Council England, Cambridge Junction and The Curious School of Puppetry.

Eden Harbud

Messy Church Sunday 8th May 3.30 - 5.30pm Holy Trinity Church The baby in the basket Join us for activities, story and songs then share a meal with us.

All welcome - a free event for families Contact hilaryjcrawforth@btopenworld.com 14

Things for Children and Families To Do Saturday 7th May, 10.00am - 1.00pm Get Growing, Cambridge Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside CB2 1JE Plant seeds and take cuttings to take home. Free, drop-in event in the Schools Garden. Normal admission charge for accompanying adults.

Until Sunday 8th May, 10.30am - 4.30pm Lambing at Wimpole Arrington SG8 0BS Watch new lambs feeding, sleeping and frolicking. Spot the rare breeds.

Sunday 8th May, 2.30pm - 5.00pm Hinxton Watermill Open Day, Mill Lane, Hinxton CB10 1RD Visit the picturesque mill which dates back to the Domesday Book.

Children can try the Where’s Ratty? contest with the chance of a prize.

National Trust members free. Non members £3 adults, £1 children.

Sunday 22nd May, 11.30am and 2.30pm Mischief and Mystery in Moomin Valley The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX Magical puppetry, original music and interactive play for ages 4 to 7. £10 adults, £6 children. Book on www.junction.co.uk.

Saturday 28th May, 11.30am - 4.00pm Wandlebury Wildlife Day (Part of the Cambridge Nature Festival.)

Wandlebury Ring, Gog Magog Hills, Cambridge CB22 3AE Nature activities for all ages. Free, drop-in event.

Saturday 28th May - Sunday 5th June, 10.00am - 5.00pm Kids Rule! @ May Half Term, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF Free for English Heritage members, £21 non members, £12.60 children.

Celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee with historic performers, activities and outdoor fun. Book on www.english-heritage.org.uk.

Tuesday 31st May, 10.00am - 12.00pm Wild in the Woods, Waresley Woods Car Park, SG19 3DA Join Becca Badger for a wild adventure looking for wildlife and doing silly challenges on the way. For children aged 7 - 11 years. Not suitable for pushchairs as paths are narrow. Wear long sleeves and trousers to avoid bites and scratches. Book on www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 15

Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk We had a fantastic time in March, particularly thanks to Mrs Elwood and her organisation of a fabulous Science Week! The classes have all shared a bit of what they were doing below.

Puffin Class In Puffin Class, we enjoyed virtual sessions from Woodgreen about caring for a Henry the hamster. The children loved this! We extended our discussion to how we care for lots of different pets and saw some of these in our “Show and Tell” sessions.

We also had a virtual visit to Shepreth Wildlife Park, spotting meerkats sunbathing, tigers, wolves and llamas and hearing so many amazing animal facts.

We also linked Science Week with St Patrick's Day and investigated magic leprechaun rocks!

Wren Class During science week, Wren Class were tasked with finding out about people who care for animals. We discussed that this could be vets, zookeepers or even someone with a pet at home. We were lucky enough to virtually visit Shepreth Wildlife Park and had an endless list of questions. We were particularly interested in how tall the meerkats were and which animals were the hardest to look after.

Later in the week we focused on pets. This included a virtual lesson from Wood Green and meeting Miss McGinty's rabbit, Dermot.

Wren Class would like to say a big thank you to Mrs Elwood for organising this very inspiring week.

Osprey Class In Science Week we learnt about veterinary nursing. We had a talk from Woodgreen Animal Shelter about how to care for dogs and how to be safe around them. We also had a visit from Mrs Lee’s guinea pig and Miss McGinty’s rabbit. The children held the animals and roleplayed how to be a vet.

Kite Class In Year 4, we were focussed on different types of nursing. We had a nurse visit and she had a chat about nursing. We also had a nurse visit 16

who put casts on the children. The children loved it and enjoyed scaring their parents at the end of the day by pretending they had been injured!

Kestrel Class In Year 5, an engineer came to visit the class. We linked it to our Mayan topic and built Mayan huts using wood, hacksaws and glue guns. The children experimented with mitre joints amongst other structural techniques. They had a fantastic time. Thank you Mrs Elwood for organising this week and thank you Mr Underwood for our visit.

Hawk Class In Year 6, a doctor visited to explain to us all about how the circulatory system works and to show us in detail how the heart functions. As a class, we dissected an ox heart – some of the pupils were even brave enough to hold it in their hands! A few of them spoke about their experiences afterwards: Chloe P:“It was cool. It was cold and squishy, but it was also quite muscly and strong. It felt a bit slimy and some parts of it looked quite fragile.”

Jake A: “The ox heart was amazing and squishy. It was very red and cold, and some of the parts were really thick.”

Toby C: “The thin bits were still really tough and when I held it blood got on my hands!”

McKenzie L: “At first I didn’t want to touch it, but I went up to it and put my gloves on. It was heavier than I expected. The stringy parts were really strong.”

Natasha Hill Hawk Class Teacher 17

Meldreth Village Hall The Village Hall Trustees wrote here in January, to ask for more volunteers to join the Trustees.

We are very grateful to those who responded and have strengthened the team. Following Mr Paul Ray's retirement as Chairman after many years of sterling service, we have re-assigned roles, with Mr David Coton becoming Chairman and Mr Andrew Young Deputy Chair.

This means that we now urgently need a new Treasurer.

The task is not onerous but does require some experience of keeping and presenting accounts. A gradual handover is possible.

We would be very grateful to anyone who can take on this role, or just join the Trustees to help with our refurbishment plans. Please contact David Coton on 07749 850026 or email david@coton.me.uk.

The Village Hall Trustees 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

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Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group Our March meeting was held in ASCH Melbourn when Peter Sara came to talk to us about the charity Marie Curie which was formed in 1948 – the same year as the NHS. They do not receive government funding but they do work with the NHS as they make all their referrals.

Most of us were surprised to find that Marie Curie is not a cancer charity; we were told they work with anyone who has received a terminal diagnosis including COPD and Parkinsons. Peter stressed the importance of recognising that people are not dying of a terminal illness but living with a terminal illness.

His job is that of a community fundraiser and he is always happy to hear from people who would like his support to help raise funds for Marie Curie. This takes many different forms from the massive marathon challenges to the lady who raised £300 by putting plants outside of her front garden during lockdown. Or you can donate a couple of hours of your time to help with a local collection day.

Marie Curie support research into end of life care as they want people to live the best way they can with their terminal illness. This led them to set up a free information support line, available to everyone. It may be used by GPs or by teachers wanting to adapt things for children who have a terminal illness diagnosis. Originally this only ran on weekdays but this has now been extended to weekends and special days such as Christmas and Mothering Sunday. People may telephone and ask “How do I tell my children”. The support line is used mainly by women (80%) so after more research a webchat and email service was set up and 80% of the users of these are men. For more information, contact Marie Curie by emailing abby.lockett@mariecurie.org.uk. Pat gave a vote of thanks and a cheque.

Our next meeting will be on 24th May, when we have our summer supper which is open to members and their guests. If you would like to know more about the group, need a lift to meetings or would like a copy of our programme, please contact any of the following committee members: Pat Smith (01763) 262575, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Angela Leach (01763) 262793, Pat Ames (01763) 261130, Kimmi Crosby (07976228377), Mary Bailey (01763) 220171 or Diane Blundell (01763) 221415.

Pat Smith 19

Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk AGM - Friday 13th May, 8.00pm To review three years of accounts, trustees, future events and any funding towards church maintenance work.

Saturday 28th May Blue Skies - Swing Band playing 1930s - 1940s and later classics

7.30pm Holy Trinity Church Tickets £10.00 including a glass of wine or juice from John Price on 07770 758373, Peter Chilvers on (01763) 260742 or Ian Mitchell on (01763) 260319

Open Gardens –July Date to be agreed for a group of gardens centred around the church Car Show – Sunday 11th September Talks (dates yet to be arranged) Climate Change – by Tom Heap of Countryfile and Radio 4 Architecture – by Meredith Bowles founder of Mole Architects of Cambridge John Price

Visit your local history website

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Over 600 pages on Meldreth, past and present See the Meldreth Today section for information on footpaths * facilities * over 25 local clubs & groups 20

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Things to Do in May Here are some things happening in May 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.

Monday 2nd May, 10.00am start (assemble from 9.00am) The Reach Ride Guildhall, Market Square, Cambridge CB2 3QB Popular Bank Holiday cycle ride from central Cambridge through scenic countryside to the historic Reach Fair, dating back over 800 years.

Approximately 15 miles each way at leisurely pace, arriving at Reach by noon. A led return ride departs at 2.30pm or make your own way back independently. Free event. Further details at www.camcycle.org.uk.

Tuesday 3rd May to Monday 29th August, normal opening times True to Nature - Open Air Painting in Europe 1780 to 1870 Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB This unique exhibition records the way artists of the period recorded nature first-hand in the open air. Featuring more than 100 oil sketches by artists including Constable, Corot and many others. Free entry but you need to book places in advance: www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk.

Saturday 7th May, 10.00am to 4.00pm Barkway Market High Street/Royston Road, Barkway, Hertfordshire, SG8 8BT Over 120 stalls, craft fair, food and drink and children’s entertainment.

Admission £3 per adult, under 16s free. For car parking use postcode SG8 8BT; suggested donation £1 to Barkway Scouts.

Sunday 8th May, 11.00am to 5.00pm Ashwell at Home 2022 - A Day of Wellbeing Ashwell Village, Hertfordshire, SG7 5NY Open gardens, free workshops for adults and children, live music and entertainment around the village, talks, displays and guided walks, lunches, teas and much more.

Entry by programme £8, under 18s free with paying adult. Free parking. Proceeds to local Ashwell charities. Visit www.ashwellathome.org.uk for full programme.

22

Sunday 8th May, 2.00pm to 5.00pm Open Garden, Docwra’s Manor 2 Meldreth Road, Shepreth, Cambridgeshire SG8 6PS Attractive and varied local garden, good at this time of year for plants with a Mediterranean background. Admission £5, children free. Book in advance from www.ngs.org.uk or via garden website at www.docwrasmanorgarden.co.uk or pay on the gate on the day.

Monday 9th May, 7.00am to (approximately) 9.00am Wildlife for Beginners, Waresley and Gransden Woods Waresley Road, Waresley, Cambridgeshire SG19 3RH Programme of three informal guided walks around this lovely nature reserve with a focus on identifying common wildlife. Other dates are Monday 13th June and Monday 18th July, both at 10.00am to 12.00 noon. Free but reserve your place by email: commed@catrust.co.uk.

NB Only available as a block of three sessions: www.wildlifebcn.org.

Monday 9th to Wednesday 11th May, various times/locations Pint of Science - Cambridge Pint of Science is a worldwide science festival which brings researchers to your local pub/café/space to share their scientific discoveries with you - no prior knowledge required. Our immune system, genes, advances in maths and understanding dementia are just some of the topics to feature. £5 per event. Tickets from www.pintofscience.co.uk.

Wednesday 18th May, 10.00am to 12noon The House, the Horse and the Holes in the Ground Wandlebury Country Park, Gog Magog Hills, CB22 3AE Join the wardens for a stroll around Wandlebury and discover some of the Iron Age and 18th century history of this scheduled ancient monument, country estate and stables. Finish at the Tadlow Granary for a look at some archaeological finds. Free event, suggested donation £3. No booking needed. See www.cambridgeppf.org for further details.

Saturday 21st May, 10.00am to 4.00pm Exhibition celebrating 30 years of Icknield Quilters Letchworth Free Church Norton Road South, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 1SU Featuring members’ work, quilt supplies, sales table, pre-owned books and equipment, raffle and light refreshments. Admission £3.50.

Compiled by John Crawforth 23

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Local Community Services

 Homecare – our fully trained carers visit you in your home.  Si ng service – a visit from our experienced staff gives family carers me for themselves.  Day Centre – based at Moorlands Court, with a friendly and sociable atmosphere and includes a tasty 2 course lunch.  Meals service – nutri ous, hot lunch me meal delivered to you.  Housekeeping – we do those jobs which you can no longer manage, from cleaning and ironing, to bed changing and shopping.

To find out more, just call us at Moorlands Court on 01763 260564, or email : denise.taylor@chsgroup.org.uk 24

Letters to the Editor Retirement from the Parish Council As noted in the Parish Council report I have not offered myself for re-election, after nineteen years as a member of Council. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the village for their support of the Parish Council during a challenging period. Highlights during my membership of the council include: 1. Consultation on and publication of the 2005 Parish Plan 2. Purchasing the disused traveller's site on Kneesworth Road to prevent it reopening 3. Facilitating the first affordable homes site in Meldreth, followed by two more sites 4. Negotiating the income from the Bury Lane solar site towards leisure facilities in the village 5. Opposing the planning application for a large housing development on part of the Eternit site outside the village.

Best wishes to the Parish Council in their future endeavours.

Rob Searles

Helium Balloon Memory Garden I am having a memory garden to raise money for charity. This consists of me buying helium balloons and selling them for £3.50 each. If you purchase one, I will put a name or a name and short message on the balloon to your loved one who has sadly passed away. You will receive a photograph of your balloon in my garden and when the helium has gone out of the balloon I will dispose of it. I no longer do balloon releases as they are harmful to wildlife.

Each month I will be supporting a different charity.

If you would like to purchase a balloon, please email me on popcornandmo@hotmail.com for more details.

Kirsten Bailey

25

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Remote Access Tool Scams One victim lost over £20,000 after they received a call from someone claiming to be from Sky stating that there was a problem with their Sky box. The scammer persuaded the victim to download a remote access tool to their device which enabled the suspect to access the victim’s online banking and make a number of transfers out of their account.

Another victim lost over £1,000 after they received a call from someone claiming to be from Amazon stating that they were processing a payment for an Amazon Prime membership. The victim told the scammer that they hadn’t subscribed to Amazon Prime but clicked on a link provided by the suspect to cancel the membership. The link downloaded a remote access tool to their device which enabled the suspect to access the victim’s online banking and empty their account.

Protect yourself by only installing software or granting remote access to your computer if you’re asked by someone you know and trust, such as a friend or family member, and never as a result of an unsolicited call, browser pop up, or text message. Remember, a bank or other organisation will never contact you out of the blue requesting remote access to your device.

If you think you have fallen victim to a scam, protect your money by contacting your bank immediately on a different device from the one the scammer contacted you on, and report the scam to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit http://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

Tim

(01763) 262801

(01763) 260323

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

Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch

27

Meldreth Village D Monday 8.00-9.00pm Zumba

Early May Bank Holiday

11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance for Children (multiple classes) 8.00-9.00pm Zumba

11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance for Children (multiple classes) 8.00-9.00pm Zumba

11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance for Children (multiple classes) 8.00-9.00pm Zumba

Tuesday

Wednesday

9.15-10.15am Yoga2rise 9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group 1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 4.45-5.45pm Tang Soo Do 5.00-6.00 Rainbows 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

9.15-10.15am Yoga2rise 9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group 1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 4.45-5.45pm Tang Soo Do 5.00-6.00 Rainbows 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

9.15-10.15am Yoga2rise 9.15am Cycling Group 10.40-11.30 Mobile Library 1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 4.45-5.45pm Tang Soo Do 5.00-6.00 Rainbows 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

9.15-10.15am Yoga2rise

Thurs

7.00am-10.00 Elections

1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir 6.30pm Slimming World 8.00-9.00pm Bell Ringing

1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir 6.30pm Slimming World 8.00-9.00pm Bell Ringing

10.00am-1.15 Hartbeeps (mu 4.00-5.00pm A 6.00-6.45pm P 7.00-9.00pm T 7.30pm Parish AGM, Elin W Community R

1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir

10.00am-1.15 Hartbeeps (mu classes) 4.00-5.00pm A

6.30pm Slimming World

6.00-6.45pm P

8.00-9.00pm Bell Ringing

8.00pm Annu Meeting (see p

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics

1.30-2.30pm Lift Off Choir

10.00am-1.15 Hartbeeps (mu classes) 4.00-5.00pm A

4.45-5.45pm Tang Soo Do

6.30pm Slimming World

6.00-6.45pm P

5.00-6.00 Rainbows

8.00-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00-9.00pm T

9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates 11.00-12.00 Trigger Point Pilates

9.15am Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

8.00-9.00pm Zumba

1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics 4.45-5.45pm Tang Soo Do 7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

Half Term

Half Term

Refuse Collections

Black bins: 10th, 24th Blue & green bins: 4

Get rem download

Church services and Women’s Group meetings are held in Holy Trinity Church. The Mobile Librar Church. MLHG meet in the Community Room in Elin Way. All

28

Diary - May 2022

sday

0pm Local

5pm ulti. classes) Acro Pilates Table Tennis h Council ay Room

pm ultiple

Friday 9.30am Slimming World 4.00-6.30pm Street Dance for Children (multiple classes)

Saturday 2.00pm Performance of PEA. By Nod at the Fox. Doors open 1.45pm (see page 14 and back page)

Sunday 9.45am Said Eucharist with hymns

1 8

8.00am Said Eucharist

3.30pm Messy Church (see page 14) 9.30am Slimming World

9.45am Said Eucharist with hymns

8.00pm FOHT AGM, Holy Trinity Church (see page 20)

9.30am Slimming World

10.00am-3.00pm Charity Craft Fair

Acro

Pilates

al Parish page 43)

5pm ultiple

9.30am Slimming World

7.30pm Blue Skies Swing Band, Holy Trinity Church (see page 20)

9.45am Said Eucharist with hymns

Acro

Pilates

Table Tennis

h 4th*, 17th, 31st

* changed dates due to public holidays

The copy deadline for the June issue of Meldreth Matters is Thursday 12th May

minders on your mobile: d the Bin Collections app

ry Service visits Bell Close. Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group meet in the lay-by opposite Holy Trinity other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.

29

Notes from a Small Garden We’ve had our usual weather in late March and early April again. Cold nights and many beautifully sunny days, although this year we have some rain interspersed between the best of the weather, which is always a relief. Having to start watering pots in March is too early a start for me!

I have been making regular journeys to Addenbrooke’s in the last three weeks; the best part has been noticing all the bulbs and flowering hedges and trees. One of my favourite sights, if you take the second turning from Shepreth to the A10, is the wonderful view of carpets of Welsh wild daffodils in the field next to the drive to Wimbish Manor.

This year the welcoming signs of spring, to name just a few, were the blackthorn in the hedges, the magnolia in Elin Way, a long row of grape hyacinths growing under a hedge in North End and celandines on the left hand side of Fenny Lane as you approach the stocks. We are well into April as I write this, and I have spied many gardens where the small tree, Amelanchier (possibly Ballerina) has been flowering profusely. Maybe it is only what I call a three week wonder but the brownish/purple new leaves and blossom are charming and the autumn colouring is good too. I wish I were better at keeping a garden diary and writing down bulbs, plants, shrubs and trees I want to remember to get for the garden later in the year. I had forgotten about the Amelanchier in our garden which must have succumbed many years ago.

One of the things I enjoy greatly at this time of year is seeing which plants have self-seeded since last year. Love-in-the-mist has appeared in all the most convenient places in the borders and paving cracks, filling up spaces and providing jewels for picking for the house not to mention the attractive seed heads in the autumn. But this year I’ve got very few opium poppies coming up and I am not the only person who has noticed this. They make such handsome plants in the border, with different shaped flowers with their lovely shades of pink and purple.

Today I spied a few self seeded plants in some of my pots, which I shall hastily water and will transplant the smaller ones and see how they do.

Years ago the beds here were full of aquilegias in May; all different colours and shapes - very incestuous! But about ten years they suddenly disappeared from the garden and have sadly not reappeared 30

since, despite me buying plants and hoping they would self-seed.

Purple orach (related to spinach) and its greeny pink sister double as salad leaves and provide good colour in the veg patch. They are excellent self-seeders and easy to pull out if in the wrong place. Not so anchusa, with its pretty blue forget-me-not flowers which is a thug. I have been digging it out all afternoon and have resorted to weed killing between the pavement stones. Not all self seeding plants are a bonus!

However nasturtiums, the Californian poppy (eschscholzia) and foxgloves are always welcome.

May is a such a glorious gardening month, but there is such a lot to do.

Here are some vital jobs:  Earth up potatoes and plant any still remaining. This helps to prevent late frost damage and ensures that developing potatoes aren’t exposed to light, turning them green and poisonous.  Plant out pots, hanging baskets and summer bedding at the end of the month - it’s safer!  Hand weed and regularly hoe weeds off where you can.  Continue to sow vegetable seeds.  Watch out for the lily beetle!

Please visit the plant stall at the Jubilee Community Church Fete on Friday 3rd June. Any plants you have potted up and can spare will be welcome too!

Good gardening and don’t forget to sit down and look at the fruits of your labours with your favourite tipple!

Julie juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

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Spring in Melwood www.melwood.org.uk Spring 2022 got off to a fairly normal start, with a great show of snowdrops throughout February and as March progressed, daffodils made a great splash of colour across the middle of the wood. These were all cultivated varieties dating back to before the wood became a local nature reserve. In two areas we have planted native wild daffodils and we will transplant any cultivated bulbs away from these areas, in the hope of keeping the native stock pure.

A similar approach has been taken with the wood’s bluebells. There are many clumps of Spanish Bluebell, also dating back a long way but in areas where there are few of these, we have planted 200 English native bluebells over the last two years. A present, the prospect for these is not very encouraging. The first green leaves always get grazed by deer and rabbits but the Spanish plants are now growing away from the damage, whilst there is little sign of any growth in the areas where we planted English bulbs. Even if we do eventually get a good show of English blooms, preventing hybridisation will be very difficult. It proved impossible with the Oxlips we planted. Despite planting them away from the resident populations of primroses, all remaining specimens appear to be hybrids between oxlip and primrose. Clearly the bees forage over all parts of the wood and pollen gets mixed freely.

We will continue to encourage primroses in the back of the wood, away from the areas where we planted oxlips, in the hope that there may still be one or two of the original plants which we can protect, to obtain pure seed.

Wood Anemones are one of the most charming of spring flowers in deciduous woodland but our attempts at planting root fragments a few years ago failed and left just one small patch in leaf litter at the edge of the wood.

This has persisted but failed to flower or Wood Anemone spread and once again this year we got a few leaves but nothing else. It was thus a great surprise to find a single plant, in flower, in an area far from the original planting.

32

Perhaps this is pointing to somewhere where the conditions are more suitable. It is not far from an ancient patch of Ramsons (a wild garlic), which is an uncommon plant in South Cambridgeshire.

The migrant birds are finding their way back to the wood but the Chiffchaff is the most obvious at this time. Both Great-spotted Woodpeckers and Green Woodpeckers can be heard regularly, but the location of their nests is likely to be a problem. There does not seem to be any activity around the hole used by Great–spotted Woodpeckers over the last three years. The nest boxes cleaned over winter seem to be back in use by both Blue Tits and Great Tits and with the weather getting warmer, we need to get the repaired bat boxes back in position to welcome the bats as they emerge from hibernation.

Without interference from Covid, we hope to be able to maintain management of the vegetation into late spring and summer.

Jim Reid Melwood Conservation Group www.melwood.org.uk If you are interested in helping our conservation work, please come along to our AGM (see below), contact us via our website or telephone Jim Reid on (01763) 260231 or Bruce Huett on (01763) 232855.

Melwood Conservation Group www.melwood.org.uk An AGM for 2021 and 2022 will be held on 1st June 2022 at 8.00pm in the Green Room of Meldreth Village Hall If you have any issues you would like to raise please email them to Bruce Huett at brucehuett@compuserve.com and they will be included on the agenda or a separate meeting can be arranged with the committee.

Bruce Huett 33

Wildlife Ponds - Funding Available!

Ponds are a cherished part of the parish landscape; familiar historic features found at the heart of most village centres and in the wider countryside. Sadly, due to changes in land use and agricultural practices, the UK has lost around 50% of ponds in the 20th century.

Those remaining are often threatened by pollution and so the many species of plant and animal that rely on them are also under threat.

Excitingly, funding is now available in certain parts of Cambridgeshire for the restoration and creation of clean water wildlife ponds capable of supporting great crested newts. The funding is part of Natural England’s District Level Licencing scheme (DLL), a new strategy for compensating the loss of newt habitats, which seeks to provide new ponds and bigger, better, more joined-up habitat for this orange-bellied amphibian at a landscape scale.

In Cambridgeshire there is a high demand for such wildlife ponds through the DLL scheme. Most of the 150 or so pond projects we have delivered to date have been fully funded under the scheme. You can view some of these projects at: www.fwageast.org.uk/ponds.

We are seeking local farmers, smallholders, large rural garden owners, land-based businesses and parish-owned land to create and restore more such ponds. If you have a location in mind in your parish, please email ponds@fwageast.org.uk to receive further information or arrange an informal chat. Let’s do something brilliant for wildlife!

The FWAG East Ponds Team 01223 841507 or 07708 873710 www.fwageast.org.uk

Huw Shortle

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In Praise Of … …

Rhubarb

There will also be two food competitions at the Jubilee Community Church Fete on Friday 3rd June: a competition for children to design, make and decorate three Jubilee cup cakes and two competitions for adults to produce a sweet or savoury dish “fit for a Queen” and a Jubilee Victoria sandwich cake. More information and an entry form will be included in the June issue of Meldreth Matters.

It is now a year since I started this column so I will focus on Rhubarb again. This is the best time of year for forced pink rhubarb stalks and they can be used in many recipes. Rhubarb’s sharp tang shines in both sweet and savoury dishes. Here are three recipes to celebrate rhubarb in all its glory.

Rhubarb Crème Brûlée Combine the heady flavours of rhubarb and ginger to make a crème brûlée with a real flavour punch. It's a stunning dessert at the end of a special dinner. Cook time 25 mins plus overnight chilling serves 6 Ingredients 400g forced rhubarb, chopped into 3cm pieces 40g caster sugar 4 balls stem ginger in syrup, chopped 2 tsp cornflour For the custard layer 500ml double cream 150g caster sugar 1 vanilla pod, split lengthways 3 large eggs 5 tbsp demerara sugar Method Put the rhubarb in a pan with the sugar and chopped ginger. Cook over a low heat for 10 minutes or until the rhubarb has softened and begun to break down. Mix a little of the rhubarb juice with the cornflour in a small bowl, then pour into the pan and stir until thickened. Pour into the base of a round roughly 20cm dish. Leave to cool completely.

37

For the custard, pour the double cream, sugar and vanilla pod (as well as the scraped-out seeds) into a pan and bring to a simmer. Scoop out the pod and discard. Whisk the eggs in a bowl and gradually pour over the simmering cream, whisking continuously. Pour the mixture back into the pan. Cook over a low heat, continuously stirring, for around 10 minutes until it reaches 86°C on a cooking thermometer, or is thickened. Pour over the cooled rhubarb, smooth to an even layer and chill overnight.

Sprinkle the demerara sugar over the top and caramelise using a blowtorch or grill until deep golden brown. Serve.

Rhubarb and Apricot Chutney Keep this tucked away for a month so flavours can develop and then serve it with cheese, pâté, cold meats etc.

Prep 20 mins; cook 1 ½ hrs; makes six 350g jars Ingredients 25g fresh root ginger , grated 500ml malt or red wine vinegar 500g rhubarb sliced 300g dried apricots , chopped 200g sultanas 1 tbsp mustard seeds 1 tsp pickling spice 500g light muscovado sugar 300g red onion chopped Method Put all the ingredients into a large pan. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Turn down to a simmer, uncovered, for about 1½ hours, stir frequently especially towards the end when it might stick.

When it is thick and jammy leave the chutney to sit for about 10-15 minutes, then spoon into warm, clean jars, and seal. Label the jars when cool. Keep for at least a month before eating.

Rhubarb and Lemon Cake A lemon sponge cake dotted with tender pink pieces of rhubarb and topped with decadent cream frosting Prep 15 mins; cook 45 mins; serves 6 38

Ingredients 180g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for the tin 180g soft brown sugar Zest of one lemon and juice of half 3 medium eggs at room temperature, beaten 505g ground almond 180g self-raising flour 200g forced rhubarb , washed and cut into small chunks For the topping 75ml double cream 3 tbsp lemon curd Zest of one lemon Method Heat oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Lightly butter a deep, round 18cm cake tin and line the base with non-stick baking parchment.

Place the butter in a large bowl and beat with an electric whisk until light and fluffy, then add the caster sugar and lemon zest and beat again. Gradually add the eggs to the mixture, beating well with each addition, until fully combined. The mixture will begin to look glossy. If the mixture curdles, beat in a spoonful of ground almonds and continue to add the egg until it is all amalgamated. Stir in the ground almonds, then the flour and lemon juice. Fold everything carefully together using a large spoon. Fold through half the rhubarb, then transfer the mixture into the prepared cake tin and scatter with the remaining rhubarb.

Finish with a tablespoon of soft brown sugar sprinkled on top.

Bake the cake for 45 mins, or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. This may take up to 30 minutes longer, depending on how much liquid the rhubarb releases. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly in the tin, then remove from the tin.

When the cake is cold, make the topping. Whip the cream in a large bowl until it forms soft peaks. In a small bowl, loosen the lemon curd with about one tablespoon of water and carefully fold it through the cream, without overworking. Spread over the cake, sprinkle over some lemon zest.

And finally, if you don’t want to do any cooking you can infuse the rhubarb and make a pink rhubarb gin!

Jane O’Hagan 39

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 7th April 2022 This meeting was held in the Community Room in Elin Way. The main points of the meeting are set out below in the usual summary format. The full formal minutes can be viewed in due course on the website noted above and on the Parish Council notice board; these will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

Discussions and Decisions Council Elections 2022 There will not be a contested Parish Council election on 5th May as the number of nominees (nine) does not exceed the number of seats available (also nine). All nine nominees will therefore be elected to the Council on an uncontested basis.

District and County Reports There was a discussion about the difficult financial decisions facing the District and County Councils and how the practical needs of action programmes to address issues such as potholes needed to be reconciled with strategic and administrative decisions. There was a lengthy discussion about the important work being done by our District and County Councillors to remediate the underpass on the footpath across the field to Meldreth Station, which had become a hostile environment to young people and others using this path to and from the station [see page 44].

The Council thanks our District and County Councillors for their report and for the useful information that it always contains.

Local and Regional Planning Issues There have been no further reports on the Thakeham “new town” proposals, the Oxford - Cambridge Arc and the Local Development plan. Regarding the East-West Rail proposals the Council had supported a request for the full business case to be published in the interests of public disclosure; a further letter is being sent further to assert the case for this and it was agreed that the Chairman would confirm the Council’s support for this further letter.

40

Covid-19 Restrictions have now been lifted but the Council continues to recommend discretion and caution. The village support arrangements remain in place for the time being [see pages 52-53].

Flambards Close Update Having regard to the repair work that is necessary on one of the amenity areas leased by the Council to the residents, at a meeting between Council representatives and the Residents’ Association officers, it was agreed that the officers would consult further with their residents and would then meet again with the Council to consider the way forward.

Jubilee Celebrations Several members of the public contributed to a discussion about the good progress that has already been made to create a memorable village event. The organisers asked whether the Council would, in principle give some financial support to the organisation of the event; the amount would not be large and the organisers will present a more detailed case for their requests.

Recreation Ground The latest monthly inspection report indicates that the play and gym equipment is well used but is generally in good order. There continues to be evidence of vandalism in the form of damage to trees and their tree guards. Behaviour like this will only add to the cost of maintaining the village in good order and we urgently ask for vigilance and proper reporting. At this time we are looking to save money and mindless behaviour like this will only increase our costs.

Other equipment: the Council agreed that discussions should take place with Melbourn Parish Council who had recently commissioned a public survey to help them reach decisions on further equipment.

Melbourn is thought to have a large and useful data base which might help us to decide on the best way ahead. We are considering a seesaw and a permanent table tennis table and more work needs to be done to review the possible pieces of equipment.

The higher utility costs, notably at the pavilion and grass cutting expenses, will need careful consideration and are likely to require the Council to request increases in charges from those using the facilities.

41

Village Infrastructure As reported last month, there continue to be delays in organising repair works to village infrastructure (signs, bollards etc.) but the Council has these issues in hand and will work closely with our contractors to organise a suitable programme of works.

Other village maintenance: as expected in current circumstances there is a sharp increase in grass-cutting costs, which after staff costs is the highest item of expenditure in the Council’s annual budget. The arrangements with the grass-cutting company will be renewed for a further year and a slightly reduced frequency of cutting will take place.

Churchyard The recent safety report commissioned by the Council from LIGTAS was duly provided to the churchwardens. There now needs to be a meeting to discuss the issues in more detail.

Traffic Group The Council continues to await the outcome of its Local Highways Initiative (LHI) submission to Highways for traffic calming/speed reduction measures in Whitecroft Road. As previously noted, LHI is a competitive process and last year well over half of the initiatives submitted by local councils were not adopted.

Tennis Club After an initial approach to the Club by the Council to raise the issue of public access to the tennis courts – previously conducted through the British Queen in arrangements that were suspended during Covid – there will be further discussions. These will take place after the forthcoming committee meeting of the Tennis Club. With increased vandalism becoming an unwelcome feature of village life there are obvious complications in opening and leaving courts unattended, but the Council will work constructively with the Club to see what can be arranged and looks forward to doing so.

Meetings The next meeting of the Parish Council will be its Annual General Meeting and this will take place on Thursday 12th May in the Community Room in Elin Way. This will be a usual meeting of the Council but will also agree appointments to various working groups, chair and vice chair positions etc.

42

A week later, at 8.00pm on Thursday 19th May, the Annual Parish Meeting will take place in the Village Hall. There has not been such a meeting for the last two years because of Covid and this public meeting enables residents to discuss village issues in a direct and open manner both between themselves and with the Council.

Retirement of Councillor Rob Searles After 19 years of Council service Councillor Rob Searles has decided to retire from the Council. The meeting paid tribute to the very significant contribution he has made during this long period of service and to his expert knowledge of many issues of importance to the community, especially in subjects such as planning. He will be sorely missed and he has the Council’s best wishes for a long and happy retirement.

Next Meeting: Thursday 12th May 2022 at 7.30 pm.

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 (01763) 269928 parishclerk@meldreth-pc.org.uk Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061

goddin@btinternet.com

Mr R A Searles (Vice Ch)

(01763) 260435

robert.searles@btinternet.com

Mr A Bostanci

(01763) 262488

adambostanci@gmail.com

Mrs C J Fallon

(01763) 262822

joan.fallonpc@gmail.com

Mr N Garner

(01763) 268328

nickphgarner@gmail.com

Dr R James

(01763) 261085

roger+pc@rogerjames.net

Mr C A Land

(01763) 261004

conradland@btinternet.com

Martin McGarry

07736 434915

martinmcgarry@btinternet.com

Mr Nigel Pellatt

(01763) 260909

nppellatt@btconnect.com

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District and County Councillors’ Report A10 Pedestrian Underpass We have been working on plans to improve the environment in and around the A10 underpass. This is underpass on the pedestrian path across the field between the London platform at Meldreth Station and Station Road, Melbourn. The project involves close work with local businesses, Melbourn Village College students, the Community Rail Partnership and others.

In early April, Melbourn Science Park contractor SDC undertook two days’ work free of charge to clear up overgrown vegetation around the underpass area. Jose is working with SDC on possible improvements to ceiling lighting. Our Community Rail Partnership Officer is working directly with MVC students on their ideas for updating artwork. We have good contact now with Police on ‘designing out’ ‘anti-social behaviour,’ in the same way that has been achieved at Meldreth Station through station gardening. A call for thoughts and ideas will be put to the community shortly – please watch this space.

Pedestrian/Cycle Bridge to Royston In March, the Greater Cambridge Partnership heard a question from Iris Bostanci, a pupil at Meldreth Primary School, who gets around everywhere by foot, bike or train, asking when the bridge connecting Melbourn to Royston will be built. Detailed design work for the bridge and connecting path is now taking place and a public consultation is anticipated in the autumn. The recent A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign meeting has decided to hold its annual awareness ride event nearer the time in order to encourage a strong consultation response.

South Cambs Turtles Swimming Near You Home-Start and the amazing work it does supporting young families will be the goal for the South Cambs Turtles relay swim team on 22nd May. Please consider sponsoring the team, which consists of local Parish, District and County Councillors and friends, on its laps at Royston Leisure Centre. 100% of donations will go to Home-Start, which provides important support to young families. You can learn more about Home-Start, check out the Turtles, and make a donation here: https://visufund.com/south-cambs-turtles.

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Oil Club Comes to a Close The Oil Club has been running for many years, but sadly comes to a close now as our supplier, Agricole, has found it necessary to cease its brokerage service: ‘Over recent years there has been a significant consolidation of oil suppliers in the UK and in our area. Also, these bigger entities are increasingly unwilling to trade via 'third parties'.

Poor customer feedback regarding some suppliers further limits our choice. Realistically, and especially during the current war in Ukraine, there is no longer enough competition for us to leverage to get you a good price from a range of reliable suppliers. Consequently, I regret to inform you that with immediate effect, after trading in your area since 1996, we are withdrawing our service and retiring from the domestic heating oil market.’

SCDC Zero Carbon Communities Grants Community groups are invited to bid for a share of more than £120,000 from the District Council’s Zero Carbon Communities Grant scheme. The scheme, now in its fourth year, has so far provided £310,000 to 51 grassroots projects that work to tackle climate change in South Cambridgeshire. The deadline to apply for the latest round of grants is Wednesday 1st June 2022. This year, groups can apply for between £1,000 and £15,000 from the District Council’s total pot of £120,544. The process has been simplified to aid applicants, with applications invited under two categories.

The first category is for projects which reduce carbon emissions or lock up carbon in a measurable way such as low carbon, energy saving improvements to community buildings, or tree-planting initiatives. The second category is for community engagement projects which support and encourage lower carbon living..

The money for Zero Carbon Communities grants comes from business rates from renewable energy sites in South Cambridgeshire, like solar farms, that the Council retains and earmarks for use in green initiatives like this. Parish Councils and non-profit groups or organisations that are based in the district can apply. Other groups, such as social enterprises and community interest companies can apply as part of a partnership led by a Parish Council or not-for-profit group. All information is here: https://www.scambs.gov.uk/zerocarbongrant.

45

County Biodiversity Initiative Meanwhile at County Council, a scheme which will help increase the county’s biodiversity and support the development of new homes, businesses and infrastructure has been approved.

Under the Environment Act 2021, the biodiversity of an area resulting from new developments must exceed the pre-development biodiversity value by at least 10% - known as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). This should be provided onsite, but if that isn’t possible it must be provided offsite, close to the development and within the local planning authority area. Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Biodiversity Special Planning Document, adopted in February 2022, says that they expect to require developers to deliver 20% BNG. Under the new scheme, developers who are unable to meet BNG requirements on sites in the South Cambridgeshire area will be able to secure biodiversity units from the Lower Valley Farm BNG scheme in Fulbourn.

The 358-acre farm, which is part of the Council’s 33,000 acre rural estate, has been identified as the ideal site for the scheme as it is located within the Cambridge Nature Network and lies adjacent to the Roman Road Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It will also act as a stepping stone to other surrounding SSSIs, supporting habitat connectivity across the landscape from Trumpington Meadows through to Wilbraham Fen. Cambridge-based Bidwells have helped establish the scheme and will oversee its implementation. The current arable land will be converted to biodiverse habitats including botanically diverse grassland, native broadleaved woodland, scrub and species-rich hedgerows. The Lower Valley Farm BNG scheme will go beyond BNG requirements by providing public footpaths and opportunities for education.

Developers will secure units through an Option Agreement which will commit the council to delivering the associated habitat creation and management for a 30-year period.

County Highways – Improved ways of doing things and additional spending on maintenance basics Once again we’d like to thank everyone who takes the trouble to report faults at https://highwaysreporting.cambridgeshire.gov.uk as this creates an essential public record. We understand that the wait can be 46

frustrating but encourage people to continue doing so – it makes a difference even though the wait can be long.

Sadly, a negligent underinvestment in roads, pavements and drains by previous County administrations over a period of many years, due to an unwillingness to raise funds and poor management, has left the highways network in a crisis state that will take time to turn around, particularly given the state of public finances across the board. That said, much needed new management systems are now being implemented, as well new investment in a variety of cyclical maintenance work, with a back to basics approach including annual attention to drains, which incredibly had been abandoned under previous Cambridgeshire administrations.

A one-off investment in measures aimed at improving ways of working and tending to basic maintenance including pot hole hot spots, flooding investigations, refreshing line markings, developing new roles through apprenticeships programmes, improving skills of the local highways officer and inspectors roles, and improving the on-line reporting system cited above. All that said, the beleaguered state of the network is like a tanker and changing course will take time.

Weekday Half-hourly Rail Services to Increase With the bi-annual timetable changes across the rail network in May, Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton will be seeing their half-hourly weekday services further augmented, as ridership gradually creeps up – now at 65-70%. Work patterns have changed fundamentally, with new home-working becoming part of the weekly routine for many and so rail services are needing to adapt accordingly. Again, the building up of the service will take time. A fundamental premise is that trains need to run as scheduled.

Fitness and Wellbeing Grants South Cambridgeshire District Council is urging instructors to apply for up to £300 to lead fitness and wellbeing activities in their communities.

Anyone who leads an existing group or who wants to set up a new initiative in the District, such as leading a walking group in their local park or running a weekly yoga class in a village hall, could be eligible for the small grant. Providers running multiple groups can also apply to fund multiple programmes. Activities could range from walking football/rugby/netball, to chair-based exercise classes, diabetes walking 47

groups, yoga for the over 60s, baby yoga classes or more. The grant, which is funded by Cambridgeshire County Council, is to help deliver physical activity programmes provided by the District Council in partnership with Living Sport. It is designed to cover costs such as venue hire for up to six weeks, with new participants being entitled to four free sessions. Once the free sessions are complete, participants would be expected to begin paying a small fee to continue participation, meaning that the initiative should become a sustainable source of income for the instructor. See https://www.scambs.gov.uk/ community-safety-and-health/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-lifestyleservices.

Supporting People from Ukraine Seeking Refuge Thank you so much to people in Meldreth who have contacted us about how to support people from Ukraine.

Both South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) and Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC) are helping to coordinate efforts locally to support people seeking refuge from the war in Ukraine. The SCDC website contains practical information on what you can do: https:// www.scambs.gov.uk/community-safety-and-health/support-for-ukraine.

CCC’s information includes a useful FAQ: https:// www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/council/communities-localism/support-forthe-people-of-ukraine.

Local Elections Sally Ann and Jose say it has been an honour to represent the residents of Meldreth at the District Council. They will be standing for re-election on 5th May, but regardless of the outcome would like to thank all the residents they have met and worked with during their time in office.

Weekly Zoom Surgery These are held on Wednesdays from 5.00-6.00pm. Please contact Susan for a link if you’d like to join in, or contact us any time, by telephone or email, should you have an issue or concern. We’re always available!

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 48

Giftware & Homeware

Men’s, women’s, baby & home

At The Old Barn The British Queen, Meldreth (rear of the car park)

Call us on: 07821680936 Email: info@queenbeemeldreth.com Instagram: @queenbeemeldreth Opening times: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5.30pm

A10 TIMBER CO. For Timber & Sheet Material Graded Timber Mouldings & Flooring Decking & Fencing Insulation Cutting & delivery service

Now treating paddocks & large areas

All enquiries welcome.

BESPOKE LAWNCARE SERVICES SINCE 2005

Barwick Ford Ware, Herts. SG11 1AL

Independent and family run, we put the care into lawncare

Tel: 01279 842016

01763 244955 lawnpartners.co.uk

e: sales@a10timber.co.uk w: www.a10timber.co.uk 49

Planning Matters Parish Council The item below has been taken from the minutes of the Planning meeting on 17th February. The minutes of the meeting on 7th April were not available at the time of going to press. Meeting minutes may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website, www.meldreth-pc.org.uk.

Ref. and Address

Details

PC Decision

Ransome Lodge, Woolpack Way 22/00297/HFUL

Single storey side extension

No recommendation with no comments

SCDC Decisions Some recent decisions are listed below.

Ref. and Address

Decision

Ransome Lodge, Woolpack Way 22/00297/HFUL

Permission has been granted for a single storey side extension

21 Whitecroft Road Meldreth 22/00160/HFUL

Permission granted for a single-storey rear extension and second storey extension over the existing garage

116 High Street Meldreth 22/00063/CL2PD

Certificate of lawfulness under S192 granted for the conversion of existing garage into habitable accommodation

29 North End 22/00748/LBC

Listed building consent granted for replacement of existing derelict lean-to greenhouse with a new one

Full details may be viewed on the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning website: https://applications.greatercambridgeplanning.org/online-applications.

The Meldreth Matters Team

MM is Available in Colour Online To view this or past issues online, follow us on: issuu.com/meldrethmatters 50

Home-Start Literary Lunch Event – 14th June www.hsrsc.org.uk Home-Start’s Literary Lunch events are always popular, often selling out several weeks in advance of the actual date. In June, we’re offering you the chance to hear award-winning writer, traveller and TV presenter Vitali Vitaliev.

Vitali has spent the last thirty years travelling all over the world, and has recently released a collection of stories about his experiences: “The Bumper Book of Vitali’s Travels”. In his book, Vitali explores his most (and least!) favourite places across America, Australia, South East Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Eire and numerous islands, including the Falklands.

He includes visits to enclaves and micronations, nearly freezing to death on a Swiss mountain, narrowly avoiding being caught up in a pub shootout in Northern Ireland and so much more.

Join us on 14th June at The Old Bull Inn, Royston, for a fabulous lunch platter, and the chance to travel all over the world, without even having to look for your passport.

Tickets are £15, and are available from the Home-Start office by telephoning (01763) 262262 or book online via events@hsrsc.org.uk.

Cathy Coulthard Community and Events Development Manager Working Hours: 10.00am-2.00pm Monday to Friday

Raise donations for local causes when you shop online.

Start your online shopping at easyfundraising, then shop as normal and retailers will make a donation to your chosen charity.

There are over 5000 retailers to choose from and so far over £35 million has been raised for community groups, sports clubs, schools and charities across the UK. www.easyfundraising.org.uk 51

Meldreth Coronavirus Community Support While government restrictions have now lifted, Covid rates are still high and we continue to try and support those adversely affected where possible, provide basic information, and bring friendship and social contact too. Please contact Meldreth Coronavirus Community Support using the contact details below and we will do our best to assist.

Vaccinations Mobile vaccination centres are still in operation. See the schedule at https://www.thevaccinators.co.uk.

Pharmacy Deliveries If you are choosing to self-isolate or unable to travel to a pharmacy, medication can be delivered directly to you by a number of methods.

Please ask your local pharmacist - WELL Melbourn on (01763) 260221 or Bassingbourn Pharmacy on (01763) 250660 - about the services offered. Our coordinator for pharmacy assistance is Nick Garner on 07968 568599.

Local Shops Taking Telephone Orders and Making Deliveries Home delivery is available from Fieldgate (01763) 260737 and Bury Lane (01763) 260418. For Leech & Sons butchers ring (01763) 260255 to collect outside in the car park at the rear of the shop.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Support We are supported by the very useful resources available to all at CPSL Mind – that’s Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Suffolk and Lincolnshire Mind - including common-sense helpful reminders and also telephone numbers and links if you’re worried or anxious and need to talk to someone who can help: https://www.cpslmind.org.uk/top-tips-self-helpresources. Or, for general queries please call 0300 303 4363 between 9.30am and 5.30pm.

Our Neighbourhood Zone Leaders Please remember that our team is always on hand for a friendly chat by phone – our zone leaders’ telephone numbers are below.

Kneesworth Road, West Way, Burtons & Fenny Lane: Bev Cottrell, 07773 592838 Elin Way and Howard Road: David Hollamby, 07732 106828 52

Whitecroft Road, Chiswick End, Oakrits, Melrose: John Crawforth, 07595 627684 High Street, Flambards, The Grange, Woolpack Way, Station Yard & Road: Helen Munday, 07712 555598 Bell Close and Gables Close: Cathy Walston, 07757 086380 North End, Brewery Lane, Malton Lane, Cam Farm: Bev Cottrell, 07773 592838 & Ian Mitchell, 07726 936635 If you have any questions, please let us know.

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

Whaddon Road, Meldreth, SG8 5RL

Club Facili es

Entertainments

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

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

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Village Directory

Village Hall Chairman

David Coton—07749 850026

Cycling Group Local History Group Lunch Club Melwood Cons. Group

John Rogger—(01763) 260809 (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Nikki & Julie—07599 292327 (01763) 232855; www.melwood.org.uk

Photographic Group

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440 Chris Davison—(01763) 264189

Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club

Christine Piper Hatch—(01223) 263266 Janet Pope—(01763) 248239 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

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

(01763) 220626; https://allsaintsmelbournholytrinitymeldreth.co.uk (01763) 261569 Sandra Webb—(01763) 261451 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk

Baby & Toddler Group

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

Brownies (1st Meldreth) Hartbeeps Meldreth Rainbows Pre– and Primary School

Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com Kelly@hartbeeps.com 1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Parish Council

Please see details at end of Parish Council report

District Councillors

Jose Hales—07703 262649 Sally Ann Hart—07791 233303

District Council Offices

03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/

County Councillor

Susan van de Ven—07905 325574 www.susanvandeven.com/

County Council Offices MP

0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Anthony Browne; www.anthonybrowne.org/

Councils & Govt.

Children

Clubs & Societies

Village Hall Bookings

(01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Julia Moore—meldrethvillagehall@gmail.com or 07403 462198

Sport

Neighbourhood Watch One Stop

Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358

Church

Facilities

Litter Picker

54

Transport Health Support Services Emergencies NonEmerg.

Misc.

Station Ticket Office

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

Rail User Group

07905 325574; www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk

Govia/Great Northern

www.thameslinkrailway.com

The Trainline Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc.

www.thetrainline.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge 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.

Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS

(01763) 260220 (01223) 245151 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)

Childline

Community Transport Home-Start Melbourn Time Bank Mind (mental health) Samaritans

0800 1111 (24 hours) Cambridge: 0344 848 7979 Royston: 03444 111 444 www.citizensadvice.org.uk (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk (01763) 263303; https://tol2.timebanking.org/melbourn 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org

General Emergency Gas Electricity Anglian Water Cambridge Water

999 or 112 0800 111 999 0800 783 8838 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk

Crimestoppers

S Cambs Fire & Rescue

0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org 101; www.cambs.police.uk Report issues: www.contactcambspolice.uk (01480) 444500; www.cambsfire.gov.uk

Melbourn Hub

(01763) 263303; www.melbournhub.com

Taxi (Butler Meltax)

(01763) 244444; 212223

Citizens Advice Bureau

Police

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 issuu.com (search for Meldreth)

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per issue £27.25 £16.50 £8.75

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Occasional full page advertising features are also available on request.

For all advertising enquiries, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com or telephone Beverley Cottrell on (01763) 262176.

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

A10 Timber .....................................49 AngliEAR Hearing ...........................24 Art of Clean .....................................21 Art of Clean Wood ............................4 Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) ..........10 CHS Day Centre ..............................35 CHS Group ......................................24 The Country Store ...........................21 Ely Design Group .............................2 Eternit Sports and Social Club .........53 Eve Construction .............................26 Huw Shortle Window Cleaning .......34 iPlaster .............................................31 Jackson Cox Opticians ....................21 Lawn Partners ..................................49 The Letting Centre .............................4 Little Hands Nursery School ............31 Melbourn Auto Services ...................21 Melbourn Flooring ..........................13 Melbourn Village College ...........Cover

Meldreth Landscapes .......................36 Meldreth Motor Company ........Cover Meldreth Plant Hire .........................35 Mncraft Computers .........................4 N J Chapman, gardening ...................2 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service36 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......4 P D Property Services .......................35 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ................36 Queen Bee .....................................49 Richard Burns Electrician ...................2 Rod’s PC Support ......................Cover Sage Blinds and Interiors ..................13 Slimming World ...............................10 Sparky’s ...........................................36 Specialist Dental Partners ...................2 Trademark Kitchens .......................26 Travel Counsellors .....................Cover Village Garden Services ....................34

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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

Free performance in Meldreth Village Hall at 2.00pm on Saturday 7th May. Doors open at 1.45pm. Book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/NodAtTheFox

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