Meldreth Matters, May 2024

Editorial

Welcome to the May issue of Meldreth Matters.

If you have some spare time and would like to get involved in village life, then several organisations are looking for volunteers, including Speedwatch, Meldreth Village Hall and Meldreth Matters itself. Please see the relevant articles in this issue for more information.

Meldreth Foodbank is very short of food at the moment and needs more donations, so please consider buying an extra item with your shopping and putting it in one of the collection boxes at the Church, in One Stop or in the High Street. You can also take items to the Foodbank itself in Elin Way on Tuesday mornings.

Kathryn

Letter to the Editor

Meldreth Samaritans

I would like to say thank you to all those who offered help to my brother Dick when he fell and injured his head in Meldreth around midday on Friday 22nd March.

He and I were walking together near the stocks on our way home when he took a tumble, struck his head on the path and suffered a deep cut just above the eye.

Within moments, a cyclist appeared with bandages to stem the copious flow of blood. The bandage he applied was professional. It was tightly applied over padding and stopped the bleeding. A neighbour produced a blanket to keep Dick warm and then a chair as well. Another volunteered to ring for an ambulance and did so. Within a couple of minutes we were surrounded by caring villagers, all of whom wanted to help. It was terrific. I don’t know your names, but to all those good Samaritans a profound thank you.

Rather than wait for help, my wife Rowena drove the two of us straight to Addenbrookes. And while I am saying thank you let me extend that gratitude to those who dealt with us at the hospital. The staff were under heavy pressure but were unfailingly efficient, polite and caring. Dick was stitched back together, given a scan to ensure there was no long term damage and we were back home by the evening. After a couple of days respite with us he was fit enough to return to his flat.

There's a tendency sometimes to believe the world is a sad and hostile place. That Friday reminded me that it is still full of good people. Thank you.

Peter Allen

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

Join the Meldreth Matters Team

Meldreth Matters was first produced in November 1988 and has been printed and distributed every month since then - including throughout the Covid pandemic. Over the years, it has grown from a single page of A4 paper to the magazine you see today. One thing has not changed though: the magazine is still produced entirely by volunteers and is delivered free of charge to all houses and businesses in Meldreth.

We are looking for additional members to join our small but dedicated team. Brief details are given below.

Distribution

We would like to recruit additional members for our distribution team. The job involves distributing approximately 900 copies of Meldreth Matters to our team of around 25 deliverers. Volunteers must have their own transport and have good availability towards the end of the month as the magazine is usually available for distribution the last weekend of each month.

In total, this takes one person 2-3 hours each month. However, this is a role that can very easily be shared between several people, so if we receive a number of offers of help then the workload will be reduced most months, whilst still allowing for sickness and holidays. Having several people on the team may also mean that it is not necessary for volunteers to commit to being involved on a monthly basis.

Advertising and Editorial Roles

We are also looking for an additional member of the team who would be available to cover for both the Advertising Layout and Editorial roles if and when needed. Excellent computer and literacy skills and attention to detail are essential and familiarity with Microsoft Publisher would be advantageous.

The advertising role involves liaising with advertisers, preparing advertisements and inserting them into the magazine, as well as liaising with the MM Treasurer and Plumridges, our printers. The editorial role involves liaising with contributors and other members of the MM team, editing and formatting articles and designing the layout of the magazine. Involvement on a monthly basis is not essential but when required, the volunteer will need to have very good availability around the middle of the month.

If you are interested in joining us and would like more information on any of the above roles, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

The Meldreth Matters Team

Visit your local history website

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk

Over 700 pages on Meldreth, past and present

Meldreth Bowls Club

www.meldrethbowlsclub.co.uk

Open Day

Further to our article in last month’s Meldreth Matters, a gentle reminder that we have an Open Day for new bowlers at our North End venue opposite the Church on Saturday 11th May starting at 2.00pm.

If you are unable to attend then, why not come along to one of our weekly roll up sessions/coffee mornings on Tuesdays at 10.00am or on Saturday afternoons at 2.00pm.

Please wear flat shoes – we will supply the rest.

For further information on the Club please see our website, www.meldrethbowlsclub.co.uk, where contact details are available on our contacts page.

David Rich Club Secretary

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Rewarding work that changes lives

Friends of Holy Trinity Church

www.foht.org.uk

The talk on the National Portrait Gallery refurbishment in March was very well attended by an enthusiastic audience of nearly 50 people. This was followed by a talk on the wildlife at Wimpole Park in April.

Our next events are something of a change of format, with a theatrical performance in the church by the This Is My Theatre group in May and a Festival du Piano in July. We hope these will also be enthusiastically supported.

This Month’s Event:

Friday 17th May

Persuasion by Jane Austen

Doors open at 7.00pm for an 8.00pm start

We have booked the This Is My Theatre group to perform Persuasion by Jane Austen in the main church. This promises to be a very entertaining evening by the group. The show itself is an 80-minute production. There will be a good opportunity to meet friends and socialise before and after the show, as we will have a licensed bar serving refreshments. Tickets are now on sale on the TIMT website at https://www.thisismytheatre.com/meldreth. Please contact me with any questions.

Future Event:

Friday 5th July - Festival du Piano

All Saints Church, Melbourn

Award-winning pianists perform a dazzling programme of music by Chopin, Liszt, Schumann and more. The concert will include Aymeric Tsyganov and Ruihan Wu who already have many fans in Meldreth. Aymeric, age 15, is studying for his LTCL, equivalent to a degree pianistically and Ruihan 9, won first prize in her first international competition, the 7th edition of the PCO and is also in the final of the Children’s International London Chopin Competition.

The Cann Twins will also perform at the concert. The concert is being organised by FOHT but will be held at All Saints’ so that the pianists can use the Clavinova there. Please save the date!

Banking Problems Resolved!

I am delighted to inform you that Barclays has finally seen sense and reopened our previous bank account with all the same details, so all standing orders and other payments will function again. If anyone had had a payment rejected, please

contact me for details of how to reinstate it. Many apologies for any confusion this fiasco has caused.

Meanwhile we would love to hear from you with any ideas you may have for the FOHT to organise. Please get in touch.

Ian Mitchell Vice Chair FOHT

Meldreth Marvels Cycling Group

We had a good turnout on one of our April rides for the ‘Pop up Café’ in the Village Hall, Haslingfield, supporting a mother and baby charity.

We try to visit charitable cafés whenever this is possible, so should you know of one that is open on Tuesday mornings, do let us know.

John Rogger

Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group

We are a small friendly group who meet at either ASCH Melbourn or in the meeting room at Holy Trinity Meldreth. Meetings commence at 7.45pm and last approximately one and a half hours. We usually have a speaker or some in-house entertainment. A charge of £2 is made to cover expenses and we are also able to donate to the charity pot. The charity we are supporting this year is Home-Start. We then have refreshments and we are able to chat with one another.

At our March meeting our speaker was Amanda Roberts from the Garden House Hospice in Letchworth. Its doors opened in 1990 with just six beds and it now has twelve. It offers social, spiritual and emotional support to people facing life limiting illnesses and provides support for their families too. This year, after months of careful planning, the new Frailty Service was launched, which allows them to reach out to more people with multiple health conditions. They clearly do an amazing job. It was a wonderful and inspiring talk. Sue Toule thanked Amanda and presented her with a donation for the hospice.

At our meeting in April we are due to have a talk by Ron Sutcliffe, about his trip to Santiago to take part in the Camino Walk, which is a famous pilgrimage. Our next meeting is in Melbourn on 28th May, which is our Summer Supper.

If you require any information regarding the group or a lift to a meeting, please telephone one of our committee members: Diane Blundell (01763) 221415, Sue Toule (01763) 260955, Angela Leach (01763) 262793, Mary Bailey (01763) 220171, Janet Backer (01763) 221492 or Mary Purdy (01763) 260864.

Angela Leach

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In Praise Of

… Asparagus

This month we showcase asparagus. The asparagus season runs from as early as May until the end of June. Asparagus is a fabulous healthy and seasonal vegetable, being rich in B vitamins and antioxidants like Vitamin A, C and E. The arrival of asparagus marks a change in the year; yes, it's luxury, but the homegrown stuff will only be with us for a short while. When buying asparagus, first look for freshness since stale asparagus is bitter. Look for spears of an even size and try to cook them as soon as you purchase them as it gives a better flavour.

Here are two recipes to celebrate Asparagus in all its glory. Enjoy.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan

Cook Time 20 min 180 °C/Gas 4

Ingredients

12 Asparagus stalks

1 lemon zested, ½ lemon juiced

25g grated parmesan

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper

Method

Peel the stalks of the asparagus, place on baking tray, sprinkle with lemon zest, olive oil and salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes until soft and golden. Sprinkle with parmesan and lemon juice to serve.

Asparagus and Gruyere Cheese Tart

Ingredients

For the pastry (or use 250g ready-made shortcrust pastry)

120g cold butter, plus extra to grease

225g plain flour, plus extra to dust

1 medium egg yolk

For the filling

300g asparagus, trimmed

2 shallots finely chopped

284ml double cream

2 eggs, beaten

Leaves from 4 or 5 sprigs of tarragon

75g gruyère, or nutty cheddar, finely grated

Method

To make the pastry, add the cubes of butter into the flour and rub in roughly with your fingertips to coat. Stir in the egg yolk and a pinch of salt and, if necessary, a

drop of cold water to bring it together into a dough. Form into a thick disc, wrap and chill for 20 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 160°C (350F/gas mark 4) and grease a 22cm round tart tin. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface and use to line the tin, pressing it into the sides with a small ball of excess dough. Prick the base with a fork, line with baking paper and baking beans or pulses/rice and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove the beans and paper and put back into the oven for five minutes.

Meanwhile, steam the asparagus for about four minutes, until al dente. Chop into short lengths, and cook about half of the stalks for a little longer then place these into a food processor (keep all the tops) and purée. Pour the double cream into a jug and add the eggs. Beat together, then stir in the puree and the grated cheese. Season well.

Fry the shallots in oil and arrange with the remaining asparagus pieces on the bottom of the tart, and then pour in the cream mixture. Bake for about 35-40 minutes until jiggly but set, and golden on top, and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Jane O’Hagan

Meldreth Village Hall Trustees Updates

The Hall in Meldreth is really busy at the moment as it is very popular for birthday parties and other events. As such we have a very full calendar for the next few months.

The Trustees are running a series of fundraising events to help us with the running costs and forthcoming maintenance bills. We had a very successful Table Top Sale in March, a quiz night in April and we have a guest speaker in May (see back cover). We have plenty of other events planned for 2024, so keep an eye out for information in Meldreth Matters and on the noticeboard on the Village Hall.

Unfortunately, one of the fundraising methods we tried was the Film Nights. Although initially very successful, their popularity declined and as they were, by the end, just breaking even we were forced to cancel them as a regular event. This is a shame as we had some regulars who enjoyed the films and the social aspect too. However, this is not the end of the story for the Film Nights we will be having the occasional screening - possibly on a theme or as a sing along. Please watch this space!

Meldreth Village Hall will soon have its own website. We have spent the last few months investigating and trialling various software to allow us to have an automated booking system and a good looking, innovative web site. There will be more information on this as we complete the project.

We are, of course, really pleased to see our ‘old’ regular users taking full advantage of the Hall and welcome all the new groups. We are very proud to continue to host such groups as, Baby and Toddler, Aerobics, Hartbeeps, Table Tennis, Home-Start, Slimming World, Zumba, Pilates, Street Dance, Tang Soo Do, Lift Off Choir, Acro, Circuit Training and the Dementia Memory Café. We also are pleased to host events including the assorted Craft Fairs, Quiz Evenings, the National Fancy Rat Show and the U3A. The Village Hall is often used by residents from the local area to host private events too, including birthday parties and wedding anniversaries.

With the summer slowing coming in we are pleased to see people using our garden. We are proud of how it has turned out and ask that, while you are very welcome to use it, you please respect the users of the hall and our neighbours. There are just a few rules for the use of the garden, which include no smoking.

As you can read, Meldreth Village Hall is a well-used village asset for which there are many plans for future improvement and we encourage all residents and locals to come to the hall on any one of the public access events and have a good look round. The trustees are always trying to think of new ways to increase the usage of the Village Hall and to improve the facilities and we are always on the lookout for new ideas and helpers. If you think you can help us in any way from sharing an idea, volunteering at an event or even by being a trustee please contact David Coton on 07749 850026 or Andrew Young on 07572

553647 or email Andrew

on villagehallmeldreth@gmail.com. Please note that the email address for hall bookings is meldrethvillagehall@gmail.com.

We have a really busy calendar virtually all year but we are always happy to take on new groups, organisations and events so to enquire about hiring the hall for your event please contact Julia, our Bookings Clerk, on meldrethvillagehall@gmail.com.

Trustees Meldreth Village Hall

Village Hall AGM

The AGM of the Village Hall will be held on Friday 31st May at 7.30pm in the Hall.

Apart from all the usual reports and elections, in particular we are still looking for someone who can take on the role of Honorary Treasurer. This is a key position; at the moment Committee members are doubling up their roles, but keeping the Treasurer’s role separate helps to ensure "good governance", which is a basic requirement for a charity. Although the job is not complex and full support is available, some experience of accounting (not necessarily formal training) is necessary. Please contact David Coton on david@coton.me.uk or 07749 850026 for a chat or further information.

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

Meldreth Village Hall Trust Committee

Funerals are, for most people, a tricky subject because this necessarily involves giving serious thought to your own mortality. There is also the, perfectly natural, concern that discussing death can be distressing for friends and family. If we can talk openly about death, it becomes demystified, less frightening and more widely acceptable as a topic of conversation. Recent studies show that only around 11% of people in the UK have planned what they want to happen after they die.

Sadly, this is the case for most of us. The subject of death and funerals doesn’t arise until it becomes necessary in old age, ill health or terminal illness. Doesn’t it make more sense to have the conversation when we are in good health? The subject is much easier to deal with when it’s not pressing or imminent but an abstract event in the distant future. I often visit families who have lost a loved one and discover that there are some scant details about what they would have wanted, or no plan at all; some don’t even know whether their loved one would have wanted a burial or cremation. I have planned my own funeral, even down to the Order of Service. The Bishop just needs to press two buttons at the time of my death [KILL] and [PRINT]!

On 14th June, at 7.00pm, we will be holding an event at Melbourn’s All Saints’ Church, called “Let’s Talk Funerals”. Supported by local Funeral Directors, we will discuss what a funeral plan involves, what the church and crematorium service involves and hopefully answer all those questions you’ve never had the opportunity of asking! You’ll be able to look at coffins, orders of service, etc. and have chats with each other too over a glass of something refreshing and a few nibbles! Come along on 14th June and Let’s Talk about Funerals!

If you can’t make it on 14th June and if you really find broaching the subject with loved ones difficult, write some thoughts down first. Make a list of ideas and it will give a focus to the conversation which, otherwise, may take a little while to flow. Keep it light and chatty and others are much more likely to engage. Choosing the songs you would like played to be played at your funeral is a fairly easy topic to start with and it’s one that most people have an opinion on. Generate the conversation, ask questions – What do you think about this? … Do you have any ideas about that? Although it is important that your wishes are fulfilled it’s good to have the family feel included and involved. It’s peace of mind for everyone – you get the goodbye you want and your family will take comfort from that.

Please also remember that you can speak with me or any funeral director at any time in confidence to discuss your wishes.

Rev. Andrew Birks

Do You Like Singing?

The choir for the Benefice of Meldreth and Melbourn Parishes is looking for more members to sing at our services on Sundays and at special events. If you would like to find out more, come along to All Saints’, Melbourn on Tuesday 7th May at 10.30am and find out more about what being a member of our choir feels like!

There is no need for any experience and you would be asked to commit when you can, but if you enjoy singing and would enjoy being part of our wonderful choir, please do drop in for coffee and cake and chat (and possible a little sing-a-long!!!)

Rev. Andrew Birks

Parish Becomes Modern(!) with ‘iKnow’

On my arrival in the parish last year, I asked both PCCs to purchase a system called iKnow for us to use. iKnow is a church management package which allows us to store details of funerals, wedding, baptisms and burials and so makes the management of these much easier. It also means that everything linked to the planning of such services is stored in one place. In addition, the system has a calendar which can list all events in one place.

iKnow can also manage our financial reports, manage room bookings, create and distribute rotas and set up groups (e.g. our choir) so that those groups can receive information specifically for them. In order to do this, we need to collect some information from you which will help us to ensure that you are kept up to date with all the events and have access to the information about our parishes that matters to you.

It will also help us to communicate with you about what is happening in the parish. If you would like to be kept up to date with what’s happening in the church, please email me with your name and a link will be sent to you to give you access to the system.

Please be assured that all your information is stored securely under the current Data Protections Laws. If you would like to know more about iKnow please visit www.iknowchurch.co.uk.

Rev. Andrew Birks rev.andrew.birks@hotmail.com

Save the Date!

A10 Awareness Ride/Walk/Scooter, Sunday 9th June

Please join us once again for the annual A10 Awareness Ride/Walk/Scooter which will be taking place on Sunday 9th June.

 By bicycle – from Trumpington Park and Ride, departing 10.30am, cycling off-road to the Phillimore Garden Centre front lawn.

 On foot or scooter – from outside the Melbourn Hub, departing 11.00am, walking or scootering to Phillimore Garden Centre front lawn.

Refreshments on the front lawn at Phillimore: donations of cake or other edibles would be greatly appreciated. Please bring your own water bottle!

Can you help as a marshal, to help with key crossing points along the cycle ride? If so, please get in touch!

Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Community Rail Partnership

Meldreth Road, Shepreth, Level Crossing Public Inquiry Result

It is heartening to see that the inspector in the public inquiry for the Cambridge re-signalling project listened to strong local representations on this matter, including from the Community Rail Partnership, recommending that the introduction of a full barrier crossing with much longer downtimes should not take place. You can find out more here: https://www.gov.uk/government/ publications/cambridge-re-signalling.

Cambridge South Station: Direct Link From Our Stations?

While one might think that it could not be otherwise, a direct link from Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Stations to the upcoming new Cambridge South Station at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus (serving Addenbrooke’s etc), was not assumed. Due to the complexity of pressures on the overall Network Rail timetable, adding the time for this direct link was in doubt – in which case passengers from our three village stations would need to travel to Cambridge and then back-track to Cambridge South.

We’re delighted to report now that a direct link from the stations to Cambridge South has been confirmed. This will be a transformative public transport link for our area. The new station is due to open in 2025.

East West Rail Public Engagement Events

EWR has advertised the following – all to take place from 2.00-7.00pm.

 Friday 10th May, SCDC offices Cambourne, CB23 6EA

 Tuesday 21st May, St Philips Church Centre Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 3AN

 Wednesday 22nd May, Comberton Village Hall, Green End CB23 7DY

Thank You to our Station Gardeners!

Our stations look lovely all year round, thanks to our long-established volunteer gardeners. A big thank you for the cheer they bring to all. If you’d like to join in with any gardening sessions, please get in touch – all welcome.

Susan van de Ven and Sarah Grove, Meldreth Shepreth and Foxton Community Rail Partnership railusergroup@gmail.com or sarahgrove.msfcrp@gmail.com

Visit your local history website

www.meldrethhistory.org.uk

Over 700 pages on Meldreth, past and present

See the Meldreth Today section for information on footpaths * facilities * over 25 local clubs & groups

Speed Monitor Data Summary for Fenny Lane

Evaluation time: 4th March to 1st April 2024. Speed limit: 30mph

Direction: vehicles travelling from the Stocks to Donkey Hall Crossroads

Direction: vehicles travelling from Donkey Hall Crossroads to the Stocks

A pedestrian hit at 30mph has a very significant, one in five chance of being killed. This rises significantly to a one in three chance if they are hit at 35mph. Even small increases in speed can lead to an increase in impact severity and mortality.

Meldreth Traffic Working Group

Meldreth Speedwatch

The village Speedwatch team has been active since early March this year. We check traffic moving through our 30mph areas at five locations. Vehicles exceeding 35mph are logged and registration numbers reported to the police.

It is too early to assess traffic behaviour this year but last year our teams monitored some 6,400 vehicles travelling during the morning rush hours. Nearly 5% were exceeding the limit. Our rush hour shifts last one or two hours, depending on the availability of the team members. A speeding 5% is actually a lower number than in previous years, when figures closer to 10% have often been logged. Perhaps driver behaviour is improving or does the incredible number of roadworks have an effect?

Speedwatch is a Parish Council initiative in conjunction with Cambridgeshire Constabulary which, for Meldreth, started way back in 2004. We still have three ex-councillors on the team including some who have served since 2004!

Owners of vehicles exceeding the speed limit receive reminder letters direct from the police. Those logged more than twice in Speedwatch-monitored areas may get a police officer on knocking on their door. According to the police, last year they sent out 290 letters in our area. We know a number of vehicle owners did indeed get a police officer calling.

Meldreth’s team over the years has reduced in size for various reasons. We are now at the stage where we are unable to run all the shifts we would like with the present count and that translates to a diminished effect on traffic discipline.

Speedwatch works well when ten or twelve members are available for deployment. We need two or three people to come forward who can give a few hours a week. Our aim is to run a modest two to four weekly shifts, each of 60 minutes, with three people per shift.

We are all road users, by whatever means. If a road has a statutory speed limit, it is for road safety reasons. Keeping the road safe is of benefit to all.

Please come forward to help us keep our village roads safe. Contact us by emailing csw.meldreth@btinternet.com to volunteer or for more information.

Meldreth Speedwatch Team

MM is Available in Colour Online

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ameldrethgarden.co.uk

As spring bulbs and flowers fade and ready themselves to return to the earth, herbaceous borders come into their own with late spring flowers; in my garden, candytuft Iberis sempervirens 'Fischbeck', perennial cornflower Cyanus montanus, knapweed Centaurea scabiosa, herbaceous peonies, roses, annual poppy Papaver somniferum and perennial oriental poppy Papaver orientale 'Allegro' and ‘snow goose’ and star of Persia allium Christophii, etc. Primulas, cowslips Primula veris, oxlips Primula elatior and their mixed progeny were wonderful this year. After flowering, primroses etc. can be lifted and divided. Epimediums including Epimedium × warleyense ‘bishop’s hat’ brightened up dark corners and have just finished flowering.

I am sowing more annuals and planting-out hardy summer bedding when early spring plants, the frothy sea of forget-me-nots Myosotis sylvatica, white clouds of honesty Lunaria annua var. albiflora and wallflowers Erysimum cheiri ‘ivory white’ have finished flowering. These plants are grown as biennials and reliably self-seed. Later flowering plants will take their place in the cycle of the gardening year.

In the village, lily beetle has been seen on fritillaries; pick them off and destroy. This foreign invader‘s later progeny will munch trough lilies, devastating foliage and flowers if not controlled. The role of slugs and snails is undergoing review in the media, but their devastation this spring has been prodigious. If you see me out with a head torch at dusk wandering the garden, I am collecting slugs and snails. Some seedlings in the greenhouse have been totally eaten off.

Clumps of daffodils and other spring bulbs can be lifted and divided, to avoid overcrowding and bulbs growing blind next year. Apply a liquid feed to tulips and other spring bulbs to help bulk up the bulb to better flower next year. I will be planting out summer pots and putting away out of sight the winter pots, to let foliage die down naturally. I am growing-on some tulip bulbils to furnish future spring pots.

It is time to place supports for those plants that are known to flop. Do so now so that the growing plants cover the support and look more natural in flower; once they flop plants never look well.

I have sown lawn seed on prepared areas of lawn that were bare after winter; it is necessary to do this before it gets too hot and dry. Also I’m increasing the rate of lawn mowing and lowering the cut height as growth progresses. Edging the lawn makes the garden look neater and applying a fertiliser invigorates the grass helping to prevent weeds and moss; I use blood fishing and bone meal.

The black bamboo Phyllostachys nigra that was cut back to ground level in February is now showing very strong regrowth. I shall limit the number of new canes to perhaps 30 and once the leaves grow, will strip them to a height of

1.5 metres (four to five feet), maintaining an airy and open understory for planting.

Keep on top of weeds, both in the flower borders and in the vegetable patch. At the very least, do not allow weeds to flower. I have been digging up Spanish bluebells Hyacinthoides hispanica that spring up uninvited throughout the garden, to protect the few patches of English bluebells Hyacinthoides non-scripta from hybridisation; probably a lost cause. Spanish bluebell flowers are good in a vase.

From the cuttings garden I have taken daffodils and tulips for vases and now alliums and columbine Aquilegia are ready to harvest. It is surprising how many plants are needed to provide a good bunch of flowers, but they last much longer than shop bought flowers. I will plant out annuals and perennials to provide late season flowers for the house, including cosmos and dahlias.

The allotment demands attention. Earth up potatoes to protect them from late frosts. If not done, now is the time to get on and plant up the vegetable plot. I have sown carrots, radish and parsnips, planted out beetroot, spinach, lettuce and brassicas including broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. I have given liquid feed to the alliums, onions, shallots and garlic. The asparagus is growing well and providing luscious spears, the first vegetable of the season. When sowing seed in the allotment, I spread it very sparingly to avoid the need for thinning out, especially important for carrots to deter carrot root fly. Now, nearly all the vegetables in the allotment are protected with environmental mesh after germination. The numerous allotment predators are too lengthy to list.

I have created a website to provide a visual complement to the Meldreth Matters articles, providing some photographs of the garden and plants that are included in the piece. This can be found at http://ameldrethgarden.co.uk or search ameldrethgarden in your browser. It’s in the early stages and there is lots of work to do; comments welcomed.

Happy Gardening.

Iain McPhee mcpheia1@gmail.com

Half Term is the week

beginning 27th May

9.00-10.00am TB Workout

10.00-11.00 Functional Fitness

11.00-12.00

9.00am-12.00 Food Bank

9.15am Cycling Group

1.30-2.30pm 50+ Aerobics

12.00-3.00pm Village Hub

5.00-6.15pm Rainbows

7.00-8.00pm Fitness Pilates

9.30-11.30am B&T Group 1.30-2.45pm Lift Off

Choir

6.00-7.30pm Brownies

7.30-8.15pm Trigger Point Pilates

9.30-11.30am B&T Group

Brownies

9.30-11.30am B&T Group

10.00am Said Communion

1.30-2.45pm Lift Off

Choir

6.00-7.30pm Brownies

7.30-8.15pm TP Pilates

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00am-10.00p for the Police & Commissioner

*Rememberto

12.00-3.00pm 7.30pm Parish

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

Diary - May 2024

Slimming World

page 8) 7.00pm PTA Bingo Night (see page 7) Communion pm Village Hub Acro P Pilates able Tennis

2.00pm Bowls Club Open Day, Meldreth Bowls Club (see page 6)

for 7.00pm Village Hall Talk (see back cover)

Sunday @ 11 pm Village Hub cro P Pilates able Tennis 9.30am Slimming World 7.30pm Village Hall AGM (see page 15)

The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. Meldreth Cycling Group meet opposite Holy Trinity unity Room in Elin Way. All other events are held in the Village Hall unless otherwise indicated. Refuse Collections Black bins: 7th & 21st Blue & green bins: 14th & 28th

Melbourn Hub

www.melbournhub.co.uk

Here’s what’s happening at the Hub in May. We have some exciting new services and events this month, including an author evening with Ajay Tegala and a children’s clothes pop-up stall run by Tulip and Swift. Our new artist for the month will be Phyllis Dunseth.

Don’t forget you can always see the full range of events and services we offer by visiting our website - www.melbournhub.co.uk.

Staff Vacancies

We have a few vacancies at the Hub at the moment! We’re looking for a paid part-time cleaner as well as volunteers to help in our friendly cafe. Plus our Management Group - the group of voluntary Directors who run the Hub - is looking for new members. If you’re interested in any of these opportunities, please get in touch on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@mebournhub.co.uk.

Weekly Events

Every Tuesday - Lunch Club - a weekly social gathering for older people to meet and enjoy the company of others over a two course, subsidised, meal. There are a few places available for Lunch Club. If you are interested please contact Melbourn Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@mebournhub.co.uk.

Every Wednesday - Citizens Advice - 9.30-11.30am. No need to book, just drop in!

Every Friday - Children's Story Time - 10.00-10.30am. For under 5s. Come and enjoy a story and a singalong. No need to book!

Every Friday, Relate Counselling - 9.00am-12.00pm.

Relate will be working out of the Hub offering relationship, autism relationship and personal counselling. To book a session, please contact Relate on (01302) 347886 or email counselling@relatecambridge.org.uk.

Last Wednesday of the month (29th May) - Breakfast Club - 9.30-11.00am

Come and socialise, make new friends and enjoy breakfast or just a coffee! No need to book – just come along.

Special for May

Friday 3rd May - Tulip and Swift Pop-Up Stall - 9.00am-1.00pm

Children’s clothes pop-up stall selling babywear and toddlerwear in loud prints! This coincides with Children’s Story Time.

Thursday 16th May - Author Evening with Ajay Tegala—7.00pm

Ajay is a wildlife presenter, conservationist, countryside ranger, naturalist and author, with a degree in Environmental Conservation and a decade of experience working in nature conservation. His knowledge and infectious enthusiasm is always well received by television companies with whom he has presented on

‘Countryfile’, ‘Springwatch’ and ‘Winterwatch’ alongside Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan. As a ranger he spent time at Blakeney Point and wrote ‘The Unique Life of a Ranger’ (available in our library) about his experiences there. To book a spot please contact Melbourn Hub on (01763) 263303 or email hubadmin@mebournhub.co.uk.

Sunday 19th May - Covid Vaccination Clinic 9.00am-3.00pm No appointment needed, just walk in if eligible. You may be eligible if you are aged 75 plus or aged 6 months to 74 years and at increased risk.

Linsey Craike on behalf of Melbourn Hub

Royston & District Community Transport

Visit www.roytrans.co.uk or call us on (01763) 245228

Things to Do in May

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

Sunday 5th and Monday 6th May, 10.00am to 5.00pm

World War II Weekend

Audley End House, off London Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JF

Embrace the atmosphere and action of the 1940s and witness action-packed battle with striking pyrotechnics and vintage army vehicles. Hands-on activities and assault course for children. For member and non-member ticket prices visit www.english-heritage.org.uk. 15% discount for online bookings.

Sunday 5th to Saturday 11th May, at various times/locations

Ashwell Music Festival, Ashwell, Hertfordshire SG7

The beautiful and historic village of Ashwell hosts its annual music festival including festal evensong, young musicians’ concert, Hertfordshire Constabulary choir, handbell ringing, soul, traditional jazz and online, livestream concert. See www.ashwellmusicfestival.org.uk. for individual event ticket prices and booking details.

Friday 10th May to Tuesday 10th September, normal opening times

National Treasures: Botticelli in Cambridge

Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB Sandro Botticelli’s iconic masterpiece ‘Venus and Mars’, which has never before left the National Gallery, is the highlight of this exciting new exhibition of 15th and 16th century Italian art. For visitor information contact tickets@museums.cam.ac.uk or call (01223) 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk.

Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May, 10.30am to 5.00pm 20th Anniversary Stotfold Steam Fair and Country Show

Watermill & Nature Reserve, Mill Lane, Stotfold, Beds SG54NU Combines the wonders of steam power with of entertainment for all the family including stunt riding, falconry, dog display team, fun fair and live music. NB. Advance discounted tickets online until 23.59pm on 8th May: adults £10, children £5. To book visit www.stotfoldmill.com.

Sundays 12th and 19th May, 10.00am to 4.00pm

Great Chishill Windmill Open Days

57-67 Barley Road, Great Chishill, Royston SG8 8SD

One of only seven open trestle postmills in the country. Was in urgent need of restoration in 2011 to save it from collapse but now restored for future generations. No need to book. Why not take a picnic and enjoy the stunning countryside views? See www.greatchishillwindmill.com for further details.

Monday 13th May, 6.30am to 9.00am

Early Morning Chorus, Trumpington Meadows Nature Reserve

Grantchester Road, Trumpington, Cambridge CB2 9LH

Part of the Monthly Meander series, a special walk heading out for an early morning chorus - like a dawn chorus but at a more sociable hour! Your guide, Iain, will help you identify the birds’ calls and songs. Two to three miles on easy terrain. Booking essential. Email TrumpingtonMeadows@wildlifebcn.org. £10 non-member, £8 member. Meet at Byron’s pool car park.

Saturday 18th May, 10.00am to 4.00pm

Spring into Summer - Handmade Art Market

Haddenham Arts Centre, 20 High Street, Haddenham CB6 3XA

Popular, twice-yearly event with resident studio artists and invited guest artists and artisans demonstrating and selling their creative work. Meet friends, browse the handmade gallery and share a light lunch or afternoon tea. Limited onsite parking, call (01353) 749188 if you need help. See www.visitely.org.

Saturday 18th May, 11.00am to 3.00pm

Crafters’ Event, Hardwick Community Primary School CB2 7RE

Raising Funds for East Anglian Children’s Hospices. Buy or sell. Free admission. All crafts welcome. Email clare@diston.me.uk for details.

Sunday 19th May, 3.00pm - 4.00pm (no interval)

Wendy Cope, Poetry Reading

Stapleford Granary, Bury Road, Stapleford, Cambridge CB22 5BP

Wendy Cope’s witty lyrics and parodies have won her a devoted readership and awards on both sides of the Atlantic. As well as her much-loved poems she has written a prose collection and two books for children. Tickets £20, £10 for under 25s. Booking essential on www.staplefordgranary.org.uk.

Monday 20th May, 5.00pm to Saturday 25th May, 10.30pm. Cambridge Beer Festival, Jesus Green, Cambridge CB5 8BL

Featuring a wide range of local and national beers of all styles, as well as cider, perry, mead and wine. Cheese counter with fine cheeses together with locallyproduced bread, pork pies and scotch eggs. See www.cambridgebeerfestival.com for opening times, advance tickets and admission prices. Tickets also available on the door.

From Tuesday 28th May, 9.00am & then 53 other dates/times to Wednesday 30th October, 4.00pm. Big Tree Climbing, Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW

Six hourly sessions per day in which you’ll join The Big Tree Climbing Company and, alongside two skilled instructors, scale some of Wimpole’s giant trees. Using ropes, knots and karabiners, you’ll be securely harnessed at all times. Suitable for ages 6 to 100! £25 per person (estate admission included). Booking essential on 0344 249 1895. See www.nationaltrust.org.uk for further details.

Compiled by John Crawforth

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

Moorlands Court

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

 Meet up for a chat and lunch?

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

 Open Tuesday to Friday every week.

 Transport can be arranged.

Why not give us a call?

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

Things for Children and Families To Do in May

Monday 6th May, 12.00 noon - 4.30pm

Royston May Fayre, Priory Memorial Gardens, Royston SG8 9DX

Face painting, circus skills, Punch and Judy, music from Royston Band, bouncy castles, fairground rides, dog show, stalls and more. Refreshments and bar.

Saturday 11th May, 10.00am - 4.00pm

Barkway Market, Manor Farm, Barkway SG8 8EF

Craft fair, 180+ stalls selling unique items from antiques to artisan food and drink, plants to clothing and jewellery and more. Entertainment, music from Royston Town Band and refreshments. £4 entry fee for adults. Under 16s free. Donation (£1 suggested) to Barkway Scouts for parking.

Sunday 12th May, 11.00am - 5.00pm Ashwell at Home, Ashwell Village SG7 5NS

Classic cars, medieval dancing, guided walk, crafts, singing, dancing, refreshments, a test dig with archaeologists and 17 open gardens. Under 18s free with an adult. Tickets £9 in advance, £10 on the day. www.ashwellathome.org.uk.

Saturday 18th May, 1.00pm - 3.00pm

The Future of Us: Artist’s Workshop, Fitzwilliam Museum CB2 1RB

Hands-on workshop for 15 to 25 year olds exploring themes of place and identity. £3. Includes a visit to the William Blake exhibition. Book on www.tickets.museums.cam.ac.uk.

Saturday 18th May, 2.00pm - 4.00pm

Wildlife Watch - Pond Dipping, Trumpington Meadows CB2 9LH

Catch and identify pond creatures then try a fun craft activity. For children aged 5 to 11 years with an adult. £7.50 per child, adults free. Book on TrumpingtonMeadows@wildlifebcn.org.

Saturday 25th May, 10.30am - 11.45am

Fun Little Foodies Saturday Club

Coombes Community Centre, Burns Road, Royston SG8 5PT

A chance for children to get involved in food and cooking. Make bear paw biscuits and enjoy craft and a story. A class for ages 2 to 12 (drop off for age 6+). Ingredients provided. Other venues available. www.dodays.co.uk.

Saturday 25th May until Sunday 2nd June, 9.30am - 5.30pm

Weird Woodland Trail, Anglesey Abbey, Lode CB25 9EJ

A spell has been cast over the woods - pick up an activity booklet, follow the trail and expect to meet some odd animals - a 3 legged spider, perhaps. Normal admission plus £3 per trail. Pre-booking not required.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth

Meldreth Parish Council

www.meldreth-pc.org.uk

Meeting of the Parish Council held on Thursday 4th April 2024

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 noticeboard; these will be presented for approval at the next Council meeting.

Discussions and Decisions

Co-option

There was one vacancy on the Parish Council and two local candidates had come forward to offer to fill the post by co-option. Both attended the meeting and spoke briefly before the vote took place. They were thanked for offering to join the Council and advised that if a future vacancy arose the person not selected on this occasion should consider a future application. A secret ballot then took place, as a result of which Mr Glenn Foulger was elected to fill the vacancy.

District and County Reports

The Council thanks our District and County Councillors for their latest report, which is on pages 36 to 38 in this issue of Meldreth Matters. Questions and requests for further information on this wide range of subjects can of course be raised directly with our District and County representatives. There is a section on the issue of road repairs in the village and the High Street in particular.

Railway

It was noted that a government-appointed Inspector had advised that the level crossing in Shepreth on Meldreth Road should not be replaced with a full double gated crossing in view of delays to traffic that would arise from longer closure times. This follows strong representation by local residents in which Meldreth had played an important part but it does not necessarily follow that the Government will follow the Inspector’s recommendation. [See also page 19.]

It was also reported that East/West Railway issues are very far from being resolved. These are inexorably connected with housing and other development in this region and the political background of these issues. [See page 19.]

Our Community Rail Partnership continues to run as intended and there are plans to develop a broader geographic base for future operations; these will be brought to the Council for consideration in due course.

Village Maintenance

The Council confirmed its wish to conclude discussions with Melbourn Parish Council about the possibility of co-operation on essential repairs to village infrastructure (such as bus shelters and local signs). In addition there are a

number of repairs and maintenance tasks needed on our recreation ground equipment. The Parish Clerk will bring these items forward for urgent attention.

An additional waste bin has been ordered for the entrance to the recreation ground from Elin Way following reports that plastic bags containing dog faeces have been put in in the nearby hedge.

Village Traffic

The Council discussed the final plan submitted by Highways for the introduction of a 20mph speed limit in the village. This has been the subject of detailed consideration and correspondence with Highways. The final proposal concluded that there will need to be a short 30mph buffer zone between Melbourn and Meldreth to accommodate a 20mph zone in one village and a 20mph limit in the other. The Council’s website has a street plan showing the short section involved. The Council accepted the reasons behind this and voted to accept the final design. Highways will now be informed that they can proceed with the next stages of implementation.

All the necessary equipment for the installation of the solar powered Speed Indicator Device has now been acquired and installation in Whitecroft Road is the next step.

On a broader subject, the Council would like to see greater formalisation with our higher authorities (County and District) of regular maintenance tasks in the village for which those authorities have responsibility with, ideally, a regular programme of reviews and consequent actions, rather than rely so heavily on one-off reports from local residents. A conversation will be started to see whether progress can be made in this direction.

Finance Issues

There will be an urgent review of the Council’s bank balances to ensure that an appropriate interest rate return is being earned on those balances which are held in reserve. It is, however, important to ensure that adequate liquidity is maintained to meet both expected and unexpected expenditure.

Other Issues

The composition of the Council’s various working groups will be reviewed at the next Council meeting. All residents are requested to consider taking part in our groups; these cover all the main issues that the Council contends with on a day to day basis and residents can make important contributions to many aspects of village life through participation alongside Parish Councillors.

Next Parish Council Meeting

Thursday 2nd May 2024 at 7.30 pm in the Elin Way Community Room.

Meldreth Parish Council

Meldreth Parish Council - Contact Details

http://www.meldreth-pc.org.uk

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

Office hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12.30-2.30pm

By appointment at other times

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

Cllr R Goddin (Chairman) goddin@btinternet.com

Cllr Jenni Bone

Cllr Adam Bostanci

jenni.bone@hotmail.co.uk

adam.bostanci.pc@gmail.com

Cllr Glenn Foulger Email address not provided

Cllr Nick Garner nickphgarner@gmail.com

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

Cllr Alan Land

Cllr James Mossey

Cllr Nigel Pellatt

conradland@btinternet.com

j.mossey1211@gmail.com

nppellatt56@gmail.com

All correspondence should be directed to the Clerk in the first instance

District and County Councillors’ Report

High Street Repair

While ‘thermal repair’ work to much of Meldreth High Street, especially in the vicinity of One stop, has made a big improvement to the condition of the road, work is still needed from Elin Way to Station Road. Susan had understood that the whole of the High Street was to be treated. This ‘thermal repair’ work is designed specifically to deal with faults along trench seams and the trench extends all the way to Station Road. In addition, we’re concerned about the small potholes and faults along the edges of the High Street that require repair. Again it was understood that the work would extend from edge to edge.

Susan raised this with a senior Highways officer who came out to inspect with her. Several actions arose from that visit:

1. Funding will be sought to complete thermal repairs on the section of the High Street that was missed.

2. Remaining faults, including edges of road, will be marked out for repair.

3. Now that the condition of the road is significantly improved, the surface treatment team will reassess the road for protective work.

Please note that separate, strenuous efforts are underway to repair the High Street pavement, including the camber which makes for a dangerous journey for any wheelchair or mobility scooter users. We are particularly mindful of the need for safe pavements for all those people living at Meldreth Manor and Maycroft. Other pavements too are of course in need of improvement; the Highways reporting site should be used to report pavement faults, or please feel free to contact Susan.

Thank you to everyone for their patience on this painfully slow journey.

Anglian Water Meeting

We met with engineers and an Area Manager from Anglian Water on 18th March. A number of useful points and actions drafted, including the oftenunworkable reporting system. We are now awaiting confirmation of these from Anglian Water. Many thanks to Councillor Garner for attending the meeting.

As your District and County Councillors, we also met with South Cambridgeshire planning and building control officers to keep them informed and to consider any new points of action that the planning authority might be able to undertake in relation to foul and surface water systems.

Flood Avoidance Subcommittee Tour

Our annual tour of Meldreth to look at flooding hot spots, with District and County Council officers attending, is due to take place at the end of April. We have collated concerns coming in over the past few months to form the basis of our tour. Thanks also to local farmers who have provided valuable insights into watercourses not visible from the roads or footpaths.

Malton Lane

Some cutting back of overhanging vegetation has taken place, including ground level vegetation that has accumulated on the roadside. Thank you to the farmer for helping out with the cutback, and to South Cambridgeshire District Council for digging back the ground level accumulation – and to both for more work to come.

Highways Reporting and Follow-Up

We’re very much aware of frustrations around Highways reporting and followup. Susan would be glad to support any representations to County Highways.

Zero Carbon Communities Grant

This South Cambridgeshire District Council grant aims to empower community groups and Parish Councils to take local action on climate change. Applications are once again invited for projects under two themes: reducing carbon emissions or locking up carbon, and community engagement around climate change. Grants of between £2,000 and £15,000 are available to Parish Councils and community groups in South Cambridgeshire, with a total pot of £125,000 available.

Projects funded previously have included community building retrofits, food waste and climate-friendly cooking education and e-bike rental schemes. You can find more past projects, case studies and the application form on the SCDC website. Search for SCDC Zero Carbon Communities Grant.

All applicants should review the updated application guidance and information documents. Please note especially, all solar PV projects are now asked to have received three quotes. If you have any questions, please contact zcc@scambs.gov.uk for support. Applications close at 5.00pm on Sunday 2nd June.

Funding for Councils to Introduce Weekly Food Waste Collections

On 25th March the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs announced that councils in England will be supported with up to £295 million in government funding to introduce weekly food waste collections by 31st March 2026. The funding will cover new food waste containers for homes and specialist collection vehicles, targeted at councils that have yet to fully put food waste service in place. We are waiting to hear details for South Cambridgeshire.

How New Properties are Valued for Council Tax

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has recently published a blog explaining how it values properties built after the Council Tax valuation date. The blog sets out what evidence the VOA uses when making banding decisions. Any questions, please contact voamediaenquiries@voa.gov.uk.

Development Corporation to Decide Future of ‘Cambridge’

The Government has set out more details of its plans for a huge expansion of Cambridge and the areas around it. Originally called Cambridge 2050, then

Cambridge 2040, it has now been set out in a document called The Case for Cambridge, with plans for 150,000 more houses in and around Cambridge. Please note that the brand name of ‘Cambridge’ implies the Cambridge area, but as yet this has been undefined.

The Government’s spring budget included £10.2M for the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and transport to it (the Cambridge South East Transport or CSET project). A major obstacle to growth in and around Cambridge is water scarcity, to which the Government’s answer is to pilot a new system of ‘water credits’ where ‘developers can offset their development through the purchase and sale of water credits to ensure they have a neutral impact on water scarcity within Cambridge’.

Last year, the Government appointed head of Homes England, Peter Freeman to lead a new Development Corporation called the Cambridge Delivery Group to deliver the Government’s vision for Cambridge. Some locally elected representatives will be on an advisory board, but it appears that decisions will be taken elsewhere.

Cost of Living

The County Council’s Communities Social Mobility & Inclusion Committee has approved an additional £150,000 to Cambridge Housing Society to deliver the Cambridgeshire Local Assistance Scheme, which supports Cambridgeshire residents facing unexpected financial difficulties.

The council has also allocated £400,000 to Citizens Advice to deliver income maximisation across Cambridgeshire.

Zoom Cuppa Surgery, Mondays 4.00-5.00pm

We hold a weekly virtual surgery for any concerns, questions or ideas. Please contact any of us for the link – or we can talk/meet with you at another time. You’ll find our contact details below.

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, susan.vandeven@cambridgeshire.gov.uk, 07905 325574

MM is Available in Colour Online

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

Planning Matters

Meldreth Parish Council

The minutes of the Parish Council Planning Meeting on 4th January were not available at the time of going to press. The items below have been taken from the minutes of the meetings on 21st March and 4th April. When available, minutes may be viewed on the Parish Council’s website: www.meldreth-pc.org.uk

57 High Street, 24/00948/HFUL

Retrospective application for the erection of a garden room adjoining the western elevation of the existing garage. ‘No Recommendation’ with no comments.

Aurora Meldreth Manor School, 24/01051/FUL

Proposed single-storey extension to an existing school building. ‘No Recommendation’ with no comments.

106 High Street, 24/00698/HFUL

Erection of a greenhouse in the rear garden. Recommended ‘Approval’ with no comments.

64 Gables Close, 24/00879/HFUL

Extension of existing wheelchair ramp to include the side and rear and the addition of a handrail, alterations of windows to front, side and rear elevations and removal of chimney. Application 24/00153/HFUL was withdrawn due to a small piece of land missing of the diagram; this has now been rectified hence this second application 24/00879/HFUL. ‘No Recommendation’ with comments: ‘subject to the resolution of the issue of land requested for the side ramp not owned by the applicant’.

Former Veterinary Surgery, Stone Lane, 24/00842/PRIOR

Change of use of ground floor from Class E to residential (Class C3), to form enlarged dwelling together with existing flat on first floor. ‘No Recommendation’ with no comments.

Holy Trinity Church, North End, 24/0318/TTCA

T101 Sycamore – reduce to clear neighbouring property by 1.5 to 2 metres –crown is touching neighbouring property and roof. Noted but no comments.

Planning Authority Decisions

Showman's Site Biddall's Boulevard, 24/00616/S73

S73 to vary condition 10 of planning permission S/2607/12/VC (Variation of Condition 9 of planning permission S/0177/03/F to allow an increase in the number of plots from 11 to 21) to allow an increase in the number of plots from 21 to 29. Permission granted.

32 Chiswick End, 22/04066/NMA1

Non material amendment on application 22/04066/HFUL for:

1. Omission of rear part of side/rear extension.

2. Changing the cladding material for the new side store from cement board to zinc. Permission granted.

Former Stables Building, Station Yard, S/3696/19/CONDA

Submission of details required by condition 3 (contamination) of planning permission S/3696/19/FL. Refuse to discharge condition.

21 North End, 24/0166/TTCA

T.1: Sycamore - Fell to ground level. Tree is close to house and infested with ivy. Multi union trunk is a concern for failure in high winds. Tree has previously lost branches as a result. No objection.

2 North End, 24/0157/TTCA

Tree removals and works. No objection.

2 North End, 24/0151/TTPO

Tree removals and works. Granted permission.

76 High Street, 24/00276/HFUL

Demolition of existing conservatory. Two single storey rear extensions and the insertion of 4 No. windows to the rear elevation. Granted permission.

73 High Street, 23/04561/S73

S73 to vary condition 2 (Approved plans) of planning permission S/0984/14/VC (Variation of condition 2 of planning consent S/0912/13/FL in respect of proposed revisions to design/detailing of building), changes to the elevations, provision of pedestrian access to the main entrance and changes to parking layout. Permission granted.

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

The Meldreth Matters Team

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M 07801 057514

M 07801 057514

Did you know that Arthur Rank Hospice Charity has several retail outlets nearby? We have shops in Burleigh Street, Mill Road and Regent Street in Cambridge, plus one in Great Shelford and a Retail Hub and an Outlet in Pampisford/Sawston, where you can find bargain clothes, bric-a-brac and furniture! Do your bit for your local community (and the planet) and recycle/upcycle by donating or purchasing preloved items. Please visit arhc.org.uk/shops for more information.

Have you written a will? Is it up to date? You can write or update your will free of charge with Arthur Rank Hospice Charity’s Wills Service partners/trusted solicitors. This can be done over the telephone, online or face-to-face. The Charity also offers a free legal advice service. For more information please contact Rachael Brown, Future Gifts Manager on (01223) 675881 or email r.brown@arhc.org.uk or visit arhc.org.uk/freewills.

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity Nigel

Swimming for Home-Start: Please Support Your Local Turtles

As you may know, Home-Start Royston, Buntingford and South Cambridgeshire plays a vital role in supporting young families in our area, focusing on the very early years which can be overwhelming in unexpected ways. Their office happens to be based at Valley Farm Meldreth, so there is a special connection here in our community.

Every year the ‘South Cambs Turtles’ swim laps for Home-Start at Royston Leisure Centre. Our team is made up of a motley crew willing to float from one end to the other!

We’d be so grateful for any small donations for our swim, all of which will go to Home-Start. Please visit https://visufund.com/aquathon-2024-south-cambs-turtles and click on any of the sea-creatures to make a donation. Or, please drop me a line and I’ll swing by with the paper sign-up sheet. Thank you!

Susanvandeven5@gmail.com

07905 325574

'Home-Start’s Got Talent' Event: Save the Date! www.hsrsc.org.uk/events

Brace yourselves for an unforgettable evening of entertainment at Home-Start’s Got Talent extravaganza! Join us on Saturday 29th June, at KJAR, Senior Site, Garden Walk, Royston. Doors open at 6.15pm for a 7.00pm start.

Prepare to be wowed by a line-up of sensational acts hosted by the incredible Jude Simpson. With a licensed bar, delicious food, judges, a trophy to be won and exciting raffle prizes, it's an event not to be missed.

We still need a couple of acts for this event, so if you have a talent and would like to take part, please get in touch by calling Tracy on (01763) 262262. Stay tuned for updates. To book your ticket(s) – Adults £12, children under 13 £8, call (01763) 262262, email events@hsrsc.org.uk or book online at www.hsrsc.org.uk/events.

This event is sponsored by Ensum Brown and supported by Newlings of Royston.

Tracy Aggett Fundraising Events Support Manager

Moorlands Court

Local Community Services

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

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

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

 Meals service – nutri ous, hot lunch me meal delivered to you.

 Housekeeping – we do those jobs which you can no longer manage, from cleaning and ironing, to bed changing and shopping.

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

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

MCCS – Community Support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bell Close and Gables Close: Cathy Walston, 07757 086380

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

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

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

17 Bus Service

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

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

Susan van de Ven

Litter Picker

Neighbourhood Watch

Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118

Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358

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

Village Hall Bookings

Village Hall Chairman

Cycling Group

Julia Moore: email meldrethvillagehall@gmail.com

David Coton—07749 850026

John Rogger—(01763) 260809

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

Lunch Club

Nikki & Julie—07599 292327

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

Photographic Group

Revelation

U3A

Bowls Club

Croquet Club

Table Tennis

www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440

Nicole Searle—(01763) 269561

David Rich—(01763) 262116

Janet Pope—(01763) 248239

Christine Knight—(01763) 261676

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

Vicar

Bells

Ian Mitchell (Friends)

Baby & Toddler Group

Brownies (1st Meldreth)

Guides (1st Meldreth)

Hartbeeps

Meldreth Rainbows

Rev Andrew Birks—(01763) 230178

tba

07726 936635; www.foht.org.uk

Julia Moore—07403 462198

Email: 1stmeldrethbrownies@gmail.com

Email: 1stmeldrethguides@gmail.com

Kelly@hartbeeps.com

1stmeldrethrainbows@gmail.com

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

Parish Council

District Councillors

Please see details at end of Parish Council report

Jose Hales—07703 262649; Sally Ann Hart—07791 233303

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

County Councillor

Susan van de Ven—07905 325574

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

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

MP

Anthony Browne; www.anthonybrowne.org/

Station Ticket Office

Rail User Group

Govia/Great Northern

The Trainline

Stagecoach

Potholes, problems,Highways etc.

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

07905 325574; www.meldrethsheprethfoxtonrail.org.uk

www.thameslinkrailway.com

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 (01763) 260220

Addenbrooke’s (01223) 245151

NHS

111 (24 hour non-emergency number)

Childline 0800 1111 (24 hours)

Citizens Advice Bureau

Community Support for Dementia

Cambridge: 0344 848 7979 Royston: 03444 111 444 www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Davina Biswell 07961 574104 or Stephanie Trayhurn 07710 198299

Community Transport (01763) 245228; www.roytrans.co.uk

Home-Start (01763) 262262; www.hsrsc.org.uk

Melbourn Time Bank (01763) 263303; https://tol2.timebanking.org/melbourn

Mind (mental health) 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm M-F); www.mind.org.uk

Samaritans 116 123 (24 hours); www.samaritans.org

General Emergency 999 or 112

Gas 0800 111 999

Electricity 0800 783 8838

Anglian Water 03457 145145; www.anglianwater.co.uk

Cambridge Water (01223) 706050; www.cambridge-water.co.uk

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111; crimestoppers-uk.org

Police 101; www.cambs.police.uk

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

Meldreth Matters is available online at https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters Non-merg. Emergencies

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

Royston Taxis (01763) 0250811

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; Founder: Ann Barnes

Advertising Rates

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. Size

Index to Advertisers

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

A10 Timber .....................................11

AngliEAR Hearing ...................Cover

Art of Clean ....................................41

Art of Clean Wood ..........................23

Aurora Meldreth Manor (Job) ...........6

Bury Lane Farm Shop ......................39

CHS Day Centre .............................30

CHS Group .....................................44

The Country Store ...........................41

Davey’s Butchers ........................Cover

Eve Construction .............................27

GetSetGo Nutrition ............................2

Huw Shortle ....................................15

Knibb’s Butchers .............................32

Lawn Partners ...................................2

Little Hands Nursery School ............23

Melbourn Auto Services ..................13

Melbourn Flooring ...........................11

Melbourn Village College............Cover

Meldreth Landscapes .........................2

Meldreth Maths Tutor ....................32

Meldreth Motor Company ..............44

Meldreth Plant Hire ........................39

Moncraft Computers ........................20

N J Chapman, gardening .................20

Newlings of Royston Funeral Service 2

Nigel Wigg Home Improvement ......42

P D Property Services ......................32

Penn Farm Physiotherapy ...........Cover

Queen Bee .......................................30

Richard Burns Electrician .................15

Rod’s PC Support ............................18

Sage Blinds and Interiors .................11

Sparky’s ...........................................30

Specialist Dental Partners ...............35

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