Meldreth Matters, September 2017

September 2017

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Meldreth Matters, September 2017 Contents include …

John Gipson Dennis Pepper Meldreth Events Tennis Club Bowls Club Friends of Holy Trinity Neighbourhood Watch Spotted Flycatchers Gardening Fruits of Meldreth Melwood in Summer Letter to the Editor District Councillor’s Report County Councillor’s Report Parish Council Know Your Energy Consumption News from Heidi Allen Women’s Group Maycroft WI Lunch Club Quiz Night Photographic Club Primary School Local Events Music for Dementia Sufferers Advice and charities pages Village Directory Index to Advertisers

Page 3-6 9 9 10-11 13 14-15 16-17 19 20-21 21 22-23 24 26-27 28-29 33 34 36-37 39 40-41 41 42 43 44 46-47 49-52 54 54-57 58-59 60

Welcome to the September issue of Meldreth Matters.

Unfortunately there were a number of burglaries in the village this summer.

Hopefully they were isolated incidents but our Neighbourhood Watch Team has put together some very valuable advice for us on pages 16-17.

On a more positive note, two village sports clubs have been celebrating recently. The Bowls Club turned 85 in July (see page 13) and the Tennis Club held a free tennis day on 12th August to celebrate the opening of the newly refurbished courts. It was lovely to see such a good turnout on the day.

Please see pages 10-11 for a report and for more information on the Club.

Perhaps I’ll see you on court …

Kathryn

Cover: Railway to London and Cambridge (composite image) The opinions expressed in the letters and articles in this magazine are those of the writers, who are responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within them.

The last date for copy is the 12th of each month.

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

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John Gipson: 25th August 1923 - 18th June 2017 This is a shortened version of the eulogy which was given at the service held for John on 25th July. For the full eulogy, please see www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Our Dad, John, loved Meldreth, the people and the church.

Someone once called him “Mr Meldreth”, which he found quite amusing.

John was born in the British Queen on 25th August 1923. He was the youngest of five children born to Herbert and Agnes Gipson. His sister Sylvia said he was a busy little boy with white blonde hair, rosy cheeks and a terrible temper; especially when he was hungry! He told us stories of the old men who came into the pub with no money and offered to eat raw onions and dead mice for a pint of ale; a farmer by the name of Jarman who would stand on his head before he left; and how his clothes and bedsheets smelt of tobacco and beer because on wet days the washing was hung in the tap to dry!

John attended Meldreth School where he made lifelong friends including Raymond Course and got up to mischief from time to time!

[Ed: search www.meldrethhistory.org.uk for “explosion” to hear one example as told by Raymond Course.]

Dad sang in the Church choir for nearly 80 years. His bell ringing career began in those early days too and he rang his first peal in 1939.

He was also an expert on hymns, their words and music.

Dad always had a passion for cars and motor bikes. He syphoned petrol from his father’s car for his motorbike and grandfather often complained that his old car didn’t do many miles to the gallon!

John left school at 14 to become an apprentice, first in Shepreth and then to Jack Wedd at South Cambs Motor Company in Melbourn. He had many stories to tell about this time and loved to reminisce about all the old cars and lorries he had repaired.

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In the early 1940’s Dad joined REME and served in Burma and India where he ran a mobile workshop with 250 members of the Indian Army. In 1947 he returned to Meldreth. On arriving at Meldreth station he was asked for his ticket by station staff who he put the V sign up to and it wasn’t a V for victory! He felt that after serving during the war, nobody had the right to challenge him for his ticket! He walked into the British Queen and his father shook his hand and said “Well done” and the war was never mentioned again. In fact, he didn’t talk about his time in the war until the late 1970’s when he began telling us stories. His father asked him what he was going to do. When he replied that he was going to set up a repair workshop in the barn at the rear of the British Queen his father and brother said he wouldn’t make a living as only a handful of people in the village had cars! They were wrong and he soon had a thriving business.

Dad converted an old van so he could drive bell ringers around. One of these ringers was Charlie Cook from Newton. That is how he met our mother Joan; she was Charlie’s daughter and they were married at St Margaret’s church Newton in 1953. They began married life in a cottage in the High Street before moving to the Nook where they lived for nearly 60 years.

In the late 1950s Dad was looking to expand his business. His brother Norman told him told him that Woolpack Farm was to be sold from Hubert Ellis’ estate. Dad thought it was too expensive but his brother suggested he sold off the orchard as building plots to raise the capital to build his garage and filling station. This he did and maybe Dad was the first property developer in Meldreth! He ran the garage for less than 20 years: for many people it was a place to go for a chat or advice or just hang out and is fondly remembered by many. He wasn’t much of a businessman, he just liked mending cars! Jack Clark, Dave Day, Graham Smith all worked for him and many others worked in the office and served petrol. In 1978 he retired and dedicated much of his time to bell ringing and restoring not only Meldreth and Melbourn church bells but also bells around the UK and in Philadelphia, USA. Dad used the old chapel at the back of the house as a workshop. It was stuffed full of paraphernalia only known to him. Thousands of bits and pieces related to cars, bells, lawnmowers … you name it, he had it. The work bench was piled high with tools but he always seemed to lay his hand on the right tool for the job. Everything was covered in grease!

He loved it, it was his sanctuary … from our mother.

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Dad served on the Parish Council for 31 years. When we drove over station bridge he would call it ‘Gipson Way’ as he said he and George Palmer had harassed the County Council for a footpath to be built over the bridge for many years.

Dad was Churchwarden for 35 years. He was also tower captain, maintaining the bells and the clock. He climbed over the bell frame like a monkey even into his 80s. I think it was probably his favourite place.

He knew every corner of the church and would love to show anyone who showed the slighted interest the bells and the barrel organ. In 2011 Dad received an “unsung hero award” from the Archbishop of Canterbury for his services to bell ringing and, to our mother’s delight, was invited to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.

John was a kind, loyal and compassionate friend to many. He cared for his brother Norman and his sisters, Muriel and Sylvia, then latterly our mother Joan as she became less mobile. Our parents both set us wonderfully strong examples of love, respect for others and service to the community.

In 2011 Dad left his beloved house and chapel in the High Street and moved to the bungalow in Woolpack way. He celebrated his 90th birthday there on a beautiful sunny August day in 2013 with over 100 friends and family. And our parents were able to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary there in December 2013.

Dad loved his eight grandchildren. Laura, Jonathan, Claire, Charlotte, Louise, Ben, Abigail and Kate gave Dad endless happiness. Our children loved Meldreth and visits to Grandma and Grandad. Dad’s much loved great grandchildren Emily, Isobel and Emily Rose called him “Grandad Jelly Baby” because he ensured that Jelly Babies were always in large supply on visits. We hope they will be able to tell Florence Albert all about him.

After our mother, Joan's death 18 months ago Dad moved to Maycroft.

He was reluctant at first but soon settled there. He enjoyed the company and especially the food and was visited regularly by many friends and family. We must thank Lynne and all her staff at Maycroft who have been so kind and caring. He could not have received better love and care especially in his last days. He died there peacefully on 18th June, less than 100 yards from where he was born. Like our mother Joan he was a constant in an ever changing world and he has touched so many people’s lives.

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Chris Duguid

John Gipson: Campanologist This is a shortened version of the tribute that was given at the service held for John on 25th July. For the full version, please see www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Where do most ringers go after a campanological visit to Meldreth?

The British Queen. However, this story starts there because that was where Graham John Gipson was born. Although his birth was registered as Graham John, he was adamant that he would be known as John Graham or John G. at school, in the army or anywhere else.

I first met John in 1956 at a district meeting when I was learning to ring and I feel very honoured to have been asked to give a few campanological memories of this illustrious ringer. He was always very kind to me and I counted him as a great friend.

John’s first peal was in 1939, shortly after the peal of five bells had been installed in a six-bell frame. On his return from active service he was instrumental in getting the bells augmented to six and from then until 1968, 40 peals were rung. John thought that the bells should augmented to eight and his engineering skills were used to the full in hanging them. Over 2000 peals were rung with John himself ringing in over 1600 of them. Over 1000 different methods have been rung on the bells, John taking part in 925 of them, some of them very difficult.

Another aspect of his bellringing was his bell hanging skill. Not only had he restored Meldreth and Melbourn to activity but a large number of other towers in the Ely Diocesan Association have benefited from his skills. He also worked on projects in neighbouring counties. Indeed he went as assistant to Bill Theobald to hang the peal of eight in St. Martin in the Fields, Philadelphia and there is a plaque under the belfry recording the fact.

John’s last peal was on Friday 18th May 2012. Thus ended an illustrious peal ringing career. Many hundreds of ringers have been welcomed to Meldreth by John and his engaging smile. After all, he rang peals with 1201 ringers, 590 of them at Meldreth. He liked to go on ringing tours and he was a very proud member of the Ancient Society of College Youths - being elected in 1947.

For very many happy memories and years of pleasure we thank you John. May you rest in peace. That’s all.

Derek Sibson 6

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Gone But Not Forgotten Many will remember countryman, farmer, bowler, bell ringer, raconteur and epicure, Dennis Pepper, who died in 2015 aged 92 years. To mark his loyalty to the British Queen and the products which it purveys, family and friends recently gathered there to witness the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate Dennis' allegiance to the establishment. The plaque is fixed to the seat from which Dennis frequently demonstrated his endorsement of the readily available liquid refreshment.

“We could do with a few more customers with Dennis’ dedication” said landlord Alan Tobin.

Ken McLean

September Events in Meldreth Saturday 2nd September, 10.30am - 12 noon Coffee Break Sheltered Housing Community Room, Elin Way The usual beverages will be on sale together with a supply of biscuits and cakes on our ‘Bring and Buy’ stall. There will also be a display of home-grown produce from Meldreth’s ‘Veg’ Club so please come along, enjoy the refreshments and browse the display.

Sunday 3rd September, 2.00-5.00pm Car Show Holy Trinity Church Entrance £5.00, children 50p See page 14 and back cover for further details 9

Meldreth Tennis Club www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub

Photograph by Kathryn Betts

After a week of torrential downpours and high winds, Saturday 12th August saw the sun come out for the opening of Meldreth’s new tennis courts.

Crowds turned out for the free tennis event.

South Cambridgeshire District Councillor Philippa Hart cut the ribbon and in her speech thanked both Christine Knight, for her hard work in heading up the project to secure the £62,000 funding needed to build the new courts, and the tennis club committee for all their involvement. The funding for the courts came from Amey, Meldreth Futures Fund, Meldreth Parish Council, South Cambridge District Council, Tesco Bags of Help scheme, Stanstead & Luton Airports and The Picture Framers, Meldreth. Mark Sanders, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Councillor for Cambridgeshire attended the opening. He praised all involved for providing such an excellent LTA standard tennis venue for the community.

Philippa Hart with Club Chairman Richard Evans and Committee members Jan Butchers, Jo Kitteridge, Hilary Marsh, Christine Knight, Tracy Aggett and Jerry Cottrell Photograph by Peter Knight 10

On the village recreation ground all ages were able to try out mini tennis, a hitting wall, table tennis and the “dustbin challenge” which involved seeing how many balls could be hit into a dustbin. This proved very popular. The winner, with a score of 5 out of 10, was Mrs Sell who won a tube of balls.

The tennis sessions were very popular. The tots (3-5 year olds), enjoyed their tennis, fun and games session.

This was followed by a session for the minis (610 years) and then the juniors. Meanwhile on Court 1, Matt Photograph by Malcolm Woods Fellingham, Meldreth’s Head Coach, was putting the adults through some serious drills. This was followed by a popular service speed gun challenge, won by Clive Maggs with an 82mph serve, who received a tube of balls as a prize.

The final session was an energetic cardio tennis drill.

Raffle prizes were donated by the LTA. Prizes included two £25 Topspin Tennis vouchers, a Meldreth Tennis Club t-shirt and some tubes of balls.

Many new memberships were taken up on the day as the Club was offering a special membership deal, which is still available, and covers membership of the Club until 31st March 2018: adults £20, family £40, tots £5, mini £5, junior £10, social non playing £6. Please see our website or email meldrethtennis@gmail.com for more details.

The Club Programme The Club has social, competitive and fun sessions with an active diary of events in and around the village. Please visit our website for further information: www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub.

Club sessions are held every day except Friday and members can play on the courts free of charge at other times. Outside of Club sessions the public can book and pay for court hire. Booking arrangements will be given on the website and advised in a future issue of Meldreth Matters.

Club Coaching Courses are available to Club members only. To sign up and pay for coaching courses please book go to www.mftennis.com or contact our Head Coach, Matt Fellingham on 07779 273655.

For more information about the Club please see our website www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/meldrethtennisclub and for tennis coaching courses on the new courts book online at www.mftennis.com.

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Meldreth Bowls Club

Balloons and bunting greeted over 60 members and friends of Meldreth Bowls Club on Sunday 23rd July to celebrate the 85th birthday of the Club. Teams from four other local Bowls Clubs were invited to play in a competition game of bowls with Meldreth members during the afternoon. This was followed by a sumptuous tea, kindly given by the family of the late Mary Jeal, a very much missed member of the Club, which had been prepared by The British Queen. The committee are very grateful to everyone who gave raffle prizes and helped to make the afternoon such an enjoyable event.

Meldreth Bowls Club is situated in North End, nearly opposite the Church. New members are always welcome and anyone wishing to try their hand at bowls would be welcome any Tuesday morning from 10.00 am to 12 midday at the Club roll-up sessions.

Ann Handscombe Photographs by Vivien and Peter Constable 13

Friends of Holy Trinity www.foht.org.uk Next Event: Sunday 3rd September 13th Annual Churchyard Car show There will be a range of interesting exhibits new to the event, including a 1910 Buick and many others, motorbikes and a few pedal cycles.

Open from 2.00pm to 5.00pm Entrance £5.00, children 50p Bell ringing opportunity A small selection of prams in the church including this 1934 Marmet Glyda (pictured right) Teas Exhibitor enquiries to John Price: 07770 758373

Forthcoming Events: 27th October, 7.30pm - Cambridge University Past and Present An illustrated talk by Dr Brian Cox, Praelector at Wolfson College Tickets include wine and nibbles cost £7.50 (Friends £7.00) from: Robert Long - (01763) 261365 Mary Gregory - (01763) 260120 John Price - (01763) 260048 Peter Chilvers - (01763) 260742 14

24th November - Flanders and Swan Revisited A reminder of their comic songs by Peter Chapman and Mike O’Neill January 2018 - Annual Supper Date to be confirmed March 2018 - The Story of Saffron in East Anglia and Beyond

by Dr Sally Francis. Date to be confirmed.

John Price

Joint Parish Prayer Group The Joint Parish Prayer Group will be meeting this month on Tuesday 19th September at 85 North End, Meldreth commencing at 8.00pm.

Please join us for a time of meditation and prayer. Prayer requests are also welcomed and treated in strict confidence.

Marion Long (01763) 261365

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Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch Avoid Becoming a Victim of Burglary Although Meldreth is generally a low-crime village, there were some break-ins and suspicious activity at the end of July, so it's worth taking a few steps that can make a big difference towards keeping your home safe from burglary. Homes with no security measures in place are five times more likely to be burgled.

The following tips can all be followed without requiring the installation of additional security measures. ⇒ Lock your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even if you're just out in the garden. ⇒ Hide all keys, including car keys, out of sight and away from the letterbox; a device could be used to hook keys through the letterbox. ⇒ Get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property. ⇒ Leave radios and lights on a timer to make the property appear occupied. ⇒ Secure bikes at home by locking them to an immovable object inside a locked shed or garage. ⇒ Keep ladders and tools stored away, particularly after gardening.

Don't leave them outside where they could be used to break into your home. ⇒ Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property and make sure the fences around your garden are in good condition. ⇒ Improve natural surveillance at the front of your property, for example by trimming high hedges. ⇒ Remove valuables from view of ground floor windows. ⇒ And don't forget your shed! Shed burglaries are a common theme in crime reports from all over South Cambridgeshire. ⇒ Consider painting your house number and postcode onto your valuable gardening equipment, e.g. lawnmower, strimmer and tools. ⇒ Avoid storing valuable items such as power tools, fishing tackle or golf clubs in sheds. These items should be stored inside your home or a secure garage.

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If you have been the victim of a burglary, call the Police on 101. But if you witness a burglary in progress (an intruder inside or leaving a property) be wary of disturbing or approaching the intruder; instead, call the Police on 999.

The advice in this article has by necessity been trimmed for space. For much more good advice, including security measures that can be installed around a house and out-buildings, see www.cambs.police.uk/ GetCloser/Burglary.asp, from where this advice was adapted.

If you would like to be involved in crime prevention in Meldreth with Meldreth Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Graham Borgonon on (01763) 260358.

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Spotted Flycatchers This is a follow-up to the article in the June issue of Meldreth Matters about spotted flycatchers; small migrant birds which are becoming rare but visit the UK in the summer to breed. Last year Michael Holdsworth and Lee Barber from the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) ringed a spotted flycatcher in a Meldreth garden and fitted it with a geolocator to monitor its migration. Michael and Lee have been back this year to see if the bird has returned. If seen, they were keen to try to catch the bird, so the geolocator could be removed and the data analysed. They heard flycatchers on their visit, but did not see any. However ‘Spotties’ have been seen this summer in Meldreth, most notably in the churchyard, so local resident Ken McLean and I followed up by watching in the vicinity. We saw several birds perching on gravestones, coming down for insects and then flying back to the same perch, typical flycatcher behaviour. Unfortunately we were unable to see whether any had a geolocator attached. Apart from the traffic at busy times, it was a peaceful and absorbing place to be, seeing who could spot the bird first!

As a member of the Upper Cam Ringing Group, I am licensed to use mist netting to catch and ring birds. It was agreed with the BTO and the church warden that the group erect nets in the churchyard in an attempt to catch the tagged bird. I was also given instructions from the BTO on how to remove the geolocator should we catch it. The 17th July was chosen.

On the day in question, a number of flycatchers were seen in the churchyard between 4.00pm and 4.50pm, so the group set up 2 x 18m mist nets at around 5.00pm. We waited patiently. Nothing. We were about to pack up at 6.40pm when a flycatcher landed on a gravestone, turned and flew straight into one of the nets. Sadly it was not ringed, nor did it have the infamous geolocator, but it was great to see a flycatcher in the hand again. We ringed the bird, a breeding female, and after having her photograph taken she flew off, none the worse for her brief interlude with humans!

Jan Butchers 19

Notes from a Small Garden As I write this it has been pouring with rain all day; we were due to have an inch of rain which is unusual for Cambridgeshire, but I for one will glad that the stream in Chiswick End will have some water in it again. Peter and I were in Ribblesdale last week and what I noticed at once was the profusion of begonias and petunias in hanging baskets, and tubs in the towns, villages and gardens. Horton-in-Ribblesdale railway station looked a picture. I realise that despite watering all my pots regularly, and feeding them when I remember, they never really look as healthy as those on the west side of the country! The exception are fuchsias; I have taken heed of past advice not to hang baskets on the south side of the cottage but instead give them some shade and now they are growing beautifully.

You have all probably noticed that lots of plants seem to be flowering up to a month early this summer, due I’m sure to that very hot spell in June. So most of the phloxes, which I rely on for colour in the borders in August and early September are sadly nearly over. The veg on the other hand are doing really well. My leeks are well on; a mixed packet of different coloured French beans (very long, thin and elegant, and obtained from Phillimore’s) are producing now and the potatoes are keeping up a good supply for Peter and the grandchildren. I try not to eat them! However, some of the varieties I planted have scab. I didn’t realise that this disease is more common in alkaline soils. The cause is Streptomyces scabies, a bacterium-like organism which over-winters in soil and leaves. It’s also more common in dry spells, like the heat wave we had in June. Try to plant scab resistant varieties (Lady Christl has been relatively free this year for me) and contrary to the old men’s saying – never water potatoes - there are times in drought when it pays to water. The grandchildren are arriving today so they can have fun picking the autumn raspberries!

Things to do in September Finish pruning box, yew and beech hedging and any flowering shrubs which you have so far forgotten, e.g. Philadelphus. Collect and sow seed from perennials and hardy annuals. I have been potting up seedlings from the prolific blue-green half succulent, cerinthe major to give away. Net ponds before the leaf fall gets underway. Dig up remaining early potatoes before the slugs find them!

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On the first Saturday of this month, 2nd September, the Veg Plus club will mount a flower fruit and veg display in the Elin Way community room. Coffee will be served and we would love to see you there from 10.00am.

Good gardening from Jim and me.

Julie Draper juliedraper@dumbflea.co.uk

Fruits of Meldreth Do you have a favourite recipe using plums, cherries, apples, crab apples, pears, quinces or any other fruit grown in Meldreth?

Are you happy to share your recipe with others?

If so, please email or send your recipe to: Hilary Crawforth, 1 Chiswick End, Meldreth SG8 6LZ, hilaryjcrawforth@btopenworld.com I shall be making a Meldreth recipe book to sell at the Christmas Tree Festival on 2nd and 3rd December and would love to include your recipe.

Sweet and savoury recipes, starters, main dishes, desserts, jams, jellies and chutneys are all welcome.

If your recipe has a story I’d love to hear it – has it been in the family for generations? How did you come across it? Who likes to eat it?

Please remember to let me have your name and contact details in case of queries.

I looking forward to hearing from you before 14th October.

Hilary Crawforth 21

Melwood in Summer melwood.btck.co.uk A Time for Observation, Reflection and Planning Most of the hard work in Melwood takes place in autumn and winter, when the wood and its wildlife will be least disturbed by out activities.

Summer is a time to see if our objectives in winter management have been met with the response intended. What can appear a nice bright clearing in March can look quite dark and shaded by August. This has certainly been the case this summer. Those clearings that still catch the midday sun demonstrate their value in that most have been populated

by Speckled Wood butterflies. This is a very territorial species, so most clearings are occupied by just one or occasionally two specimens, which wander out of their area in search of a mate but soon get driven back by their neighbours. Much the same sort of behaviour can be seen amongst cliff-nesting sea birds in search of a suitable ledge on which to raise their chicks. Summer observations in Melwood will help to guide winter pruning and coppicing.

A notable feature of this summer has been the amount of dead wood that has come down off the Ash trees in the strong winds. Walkers using the wood need to be aware of this risk and perhaps consider a different route on very windy days. This is, of course, a general safety precaution in any wood, not just Melwood, but is especially true where Ash dominates, as it is so brittle.

Nettle-leaved Bellflower makes a summer splash of colour in sunny clearings

The meadow was given a partial summer cut at the beginning of July, and these areas have now returned to short green grassland. The remainder of the meadow was full of blue Field Cranesbill flowers at this time. The full meadow was cut in early August and the felled grass raked off before smothering smaller plants.

The cranesbill leaves have already come through strongly and attractive as it is, this is now becoming a worryingly dominant species. The diversity of species in the meadow remains weak and will be a challenge for future years.

22

During the summer, the group have purchased a scythe and a brush cutter and are grateful to the Parish Council and Futures Group for grants to enable this. The scythe will significantly improve the quality of the cutting in the meadow, making it easier to remove the hay and leaving a more upright stubble that better facilitates seedling development. The brush cutter has already been in action, clearing areas of the wood where nettle was expanding. Later in the autumn, a more severe cut in both wood and meadow will prepare the way for spring bulbs. Some flowers that have been grown in pots can now be introduced to the meadow, where recent rain has prepared the soil and the warmth should enable establishment before winter, unless the rabbits get there first. Finding species good for pollinating insects but disliked by rabbits is a real challenge.

Summer visiting birds are still singing in most parts of the wood but especially where bush cover is being protected. A kestrel seems to be attempting to make the back of the wood its home territory and can be quite vocal when disturbed. The greening of this previously very bare area has had some success and will continue into autumn 2017 and spring 2018. There are already promising signs of new flowers establishing and we hope to get more summer colour into the lighter parts of the wood and meadow.

Jim Reid Melwood Conservation Group

Good Companions Our August meeting was very enjoyable. It was our annual garden party. Unfortunately, due to the weather, it had to be an indoor “garden party”! Many thanks to Marian and Lynn for all their hard work and for making us so welcome.

There will be no meeting this month as we are off on another trip. This time we are going to St. Neots, so fingers crossed for some good weather.

We are still trying to find some new members: everyone’s welcome!

Laraine Pocknell, Secretary (01763) 261432 23

Letter to the Editor Parking Crack-down Day I'm writing to update you on our latest parking crack-down day.

Earlier this year we launched an online reporting system where you could highlight parking concerns in your village. In July we held our third crack-down day based on the information you gave us.

PCSOs visited as many of the problem spots as they possibly could and over the course of the day issued a total of 109 penalty fines or advisory letters. I hope that you will agree this was an impressive effort from your local officers.

We will continue to carry out these crack-down days until the parking situation improves. Every crack-down day is based solely on the information you have given us since the last one, so if parking continues to be a problem where you live please take a minute to tell us by visiting http://tinyurl.com/SouthCambs-Parking.

I hope that you are having a safe and enjoyable summer and I thank you for your ongoing support of your local police officers.

Chief Inspector James Sutherland Area Commander, South Cambs

Did You Know?

You can give free donations to Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire when you shop online https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/hsrsc

24

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District Councillor’s Report Meldreth Tennis Court Grand Re-opening I was delighted to be invited to declare the newly refurbished tennis courts on the recreation ground “open” on 12th August. They look splendid, and together with the refurbished pavilion and the ability to book a court at the village shop, make the prospect of playing tennis very enticing. New and exciting coaching programmes are in place, especially but not exclusively, targeted at getting youngsters playing.

Special congratulations go to Christine Knight for her stellar fundraising to raise the finance for this scheme. £62,000 was needed and Christine sourced the whole amount in record time from local and national organisations, without having recourse to the Lawn Tennis Association. It just goes to show what a determined woman is capable of achieving!!

Philippa opening the newly refurbished tennis courts, with Richard Evans, Chairman of Meldreth Tennis Club Photograph by Kathryn Betts

Marley Eternit This planning application for 150 houses on the old Atlas factory site was recommended for approval by the case officer but deferred at July’s SCDC Planning Committee meeting pending further information regarding contamination and input from Highways. The earliest it will be back on the agenda is September and I will keep residents posted via the Meldreth Futures website, www.meldrethfutures.org.uk.

26

Building Cladding This statement was released by the South Cambs Housing Portfolio Holder after the terrible Grenfell fire: “Following this devastating fire our first thoughts must be for those who have been affected, residents of the tower block, their families and friends, the wider community and for the firefighters. However, I thought, that as South Cambs is a stockholding authority it might be useful to reassure you on the Council's position with regard to fire safety and the use of external cladding on its properties.

South Cambridgeshire District Council does not own any tower blocks of flats. Our flatted stock is predominantly low level with some medium rise blocks in Sawston. None of the blocks has been clad with external wall insulation.

All external wall insulation installed by the Council conforms to British Standards and is approved by the British Board of Agreement [BBA].

The systems have fire resistance and are compliant with Building Regulation B4.

In May 2017 a company called Safesmart Limited, specialists in fire risk assessment, was commissioned to carry out a full fire safety inspection of our blocks and sheltered housing communal rooms. The inspection commenced on 6th June and will conclude in July 2017. There will be a full report and the Council will take any action that is recommended.”

Best wishes, Lynda South Cambridgeshire District Council Housing: Communal Areas I have spoken to several Council tenants concerning overgrown hedges and trees. Some tenants make a good job of keeping the hedges bordering their property well managed, but if anyone is struggling please do not hesitate to contact me and I will refer the matter to the housing team.

Hedges and trees are actually the Council’s responsibility if they overhang or impede public rights of way.

Councillor Philippa Hart Meldreth and Shepreth Ward 01763 261255 or 07811 323571 philippajhart@brinternet.com

27

County Councillor’s Report Bus News Our new Cam Vale Bus Users’ Group, covering villages served by the departing 27 bus and the remaining 127/128 service, met on 17th July at The Limes Communal room in High Street Bassingbourn. Seven Meldreth residents attended and we all got a lift in the Royston and District Community Transport 16-seat minibus, which will be used from September to transport Bassingbourn post-16 students to Meldreth Station – this being the first service of its kind, over-subscribed even before it’s started and demonstrating that there really is a market for new types of public transport.

We had a bit of a scare at the meeting when the previous 128 bus operator, following the retendering of the contract, cast doubt on the next operator, but that turned out to be unfounded and the service is now running under the new contract. However, a brief period of immediate uncertainty was a reminder that there is no financial support guaranteed beyond this year, so there is work to be done. People without private transport, and without the mobility to climb the steps at Meldreth Station, really do depend on these wheels to go about their daily lives.

The next meeting of the Cam Vale Bus Users’ Group will be on 27th September at 7.30pm in the Elin Way Community Room.

Whether or not you use the bus, if you want to help support this type of transport for those who need it, please come along. Huge thanks to Royston and District Community Transport for pulling out all the stops.

County Council Transfers Transport Powers to the Mayor This administrative detail may not feel relevant to daily life in Meldreth, but it matters for the work we do locally to try and improve local 28

services. Part of the creation of a new layer of local government involves transferring certain powers upward to the new Mayor.

Importantly, the Mayor has new powers around ‘bus franchising’, so could potentially look at very new ways of doing things. Hopefully this will work its way into the frame.

Summer Time: a Good Time to Consult?

It seems we’ve been reporting on cuts for years – indeed yes, we have been! With the level of cuts we’ve experienced so far, it’s very difficult to see where the next round could come from without causing harm.

As reported last month, very drastic children’s centre cuts are now being proposed – and also the beginning of ‘doing things differently’ with libraries. It’s frustrating that consultation meetings have taken place in August when many people are on holiday. If you’d like to know more, please contact me directly.

Drop-in Advice Surgery A combined District and County Councillor drop-in advice surgery takes place on the first Monday of every month at the Melbourn Hub – please note the new time of 3.00-4.00pm. As always, if this is inconvenient and you’d like to meet at another time closer to home, please get in touch.

Susan van de Ven County Councillor susanvandeven5@gmail.com 07905 325574

Transport Meetings The next meeting of the Rail Users Group will be on Wednesday 4th October.

The next meeting of the A10 Corridor Cycling Campaign will be held on Wednesday 11th October.

Both meetings will be held in the Sheltered Housing Community Room in Elin Way. Further information will be in the next issue of Meldreth Matters.

Susan van de Ven County Councillor susanvandeven5@gmail.com 07905 325574 29

Meldreth Village D Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thur

The copy deadline for the October issue of Meldreth Matters is Tuesday 12th September To view issues of Meldreth Matters online, follow us on Issuu: https://issuu.com/meldrethmatters 9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

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

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis 7.30pm Paris

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts

6.00-7.00 Brownies

7.30pm WI

7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00-10.00pm Crafters 9.30-11.30am Meldreth Local History Group 7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

7.30-10.00pm Old Time Dancing

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

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

6.00-7.00 Brownies 7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

9.15am Cycling Group 10.00am-12.00 Handbells

9.30-11.30am Baby & Toddler Group

6.00 - 6.45pm Pilates

5.00-6.00pm Martial Arts

6.00-7.00 Brownies

7.00 - 8.00pm Aerobics

7.30pm Cam Vale Bus Users Group (Elin Way)

7.00 - 9.00pm Tennis

7.00-10.00pm Crafters 7.45pm Women’s Group

7.45-9.00pm Bell Ringing

Church Services and Bell Ringing are held at Holy Trinity Church. The Prayer Group meets at 85 ‘Coffee Break’ mornings are held in the Sheltered Housing Community Centre, Elin Way. Browni room. The Mobile Library Service visits Bell Close. The Cycling Group meets in the lay-by oppos 30

Diary - September

sday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

10.30am - 12 noon Community Coffee Break

8.00am Holy Communion 5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen 2.00-5.00pm Car Show, Holy Trinity (back page) 2.30-6.30pm Tea Dance

m Fitness

8.00am Holy Communion

m Table

5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

h Council

m Fitness

9.45am Family Communion and New Seekers Sunday School 5.30pm Meat Raffle, BQ

m Fitness

8.00am Holy Communion

m Table

5.30pm Meat Raffle, British Queen

m Fitness

7.30pm Harvest Supper (see page 42)

m Table

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

31

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32

Meldreth Parish Council www.meldreth-pc.org.uk There was no general meeting of the Parish Council in August. The next meeting will be held on Thursday 7th September at 7.30pm in the Green Room, Meldreth Village Hall.

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

Parish Councillors: Mrs C J Fallon

(01763) 262822

joan.fallon@btinternet.com

Mr R Goddin (Chairman) (01763) 260061

goddin@btinternet.com

Dr R James

(01763) 261085

roger@rogerjames.net

Mr A Keena

(01763) 260267

alankeena@aol.com

Mr C A Land

(01763) 261004

c.land963@btinternet.com

Mr D Lee

(01763) 261571

david@oakrits.plus.com

Mr Nigel Pellatt (Vice Ch) (01763) 262444

nppellatt@btconnect.com

Mr R A Searles

(01763) 260435

robert.searles@btinternet.com

Mr A Young

(01763) 263484

andrewmpc@gmail.com

Housekeeper Vacancy: Meldreth Village Hall From 1st September Meldreth Village Hall needs a Housekeeper to clean the hall, Mondays to Fridays between 4.00pm and 6.00pm.

8 hours a week at ÂŁ9.50/hour plus holiday pay Please apply to Paul Ray: (01763) 260304 or p_ray@btopenworld.com.

Meldreth Village Hall Trust 33

Know Your Energy Consumption, Get Paid for it and Help the Environment We should all be interested in how we use energy as we undoubtedly will be using more and more with an increasing population and the development of coming electric vehicles improving year by year.

Informetis, a Cambridge based smart energy start-up, would like to invite you to take part in a Home Appliance Trial that will lead to creating an “itemised view” of your electricity bill that shows how much electricity each of the main electrical appliances uses in the home (e.g. fridge, washing machine and microwave).

The vision of Informetis, is to inform consumers about their energy consumption leading to reduced consumption, reduced energy bills and therefore helping the environment too. They need householders based in the Cambridge area who are willing to allow them to connect “black boxes” to the main electrical appliances in their homes for a three week period. You will need to have an internet connection, via a router, in order to take part. The “black boxes” are used to “learn” the “profile” of each of the electrical appliances and communicate this back to Informetis via the internet.

At the end of the trial, Informetis will provide you with a graph showing how much electricity your main appliances have used. Also, as a token of appreciation for your participation in this important trial, you will get a gift voucher up to the value of £100. In addition, once Informetis are ready to launch a commercial service in the UK, you will be given priority and preferential terms for the use of their service.

This invitation is being offered on a “first come first served” basis as there are only limited spaces available on this trial. To find out more about this trial and how to register please go to http://itrial.pjb.co.uk/ The main Informetis Website has a vision page www.informetis.com/en/vision/ - giving some idea of their plans.

-

At least two Meldreth households have already participated in the trial so if you want know a bit more call Graham on (01763) 260358.

Meldreth Sustainable Parish Energy Partnership (SPEP)

34

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35

News From Heidi Allen www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk As I write, it’s fair to say the summer’s been a mixed bag, but that hasn’t dampened the resolve of our villages to host traditional summer celebrations! We saw crossparty cooperation in action at the Meldreth summer fete as the elected ladies’ tug of war team (pictured) took an early lead – my thanks to Susan van de Ven, Philippa Hart, Bridget Smith and the ladies of the Meldreth Parish Council for their sterling efforts at digging in against the men! (OK, so maybe my husband Phil helped us a bit!) Steeple Morden Primary School’s fete in July championed the children’s fancy dress competition which I was honoured to judge.

It was also an opportunity to thank the Headmaster Mr Lloyd, for 11 dedicated years of service.

I was relieved to hear the Secretary of State announce just before we broke for summer, that an additional £1.3 billion will be invested in front line schools funding. All of your contributions to the Fairer Funding Consultation helped to achieve this result so thank you to everyone who took part.

The rain really did take hold during Longstanton’s Picnic in the Park but this didn’t stop the Youth Council’s event grabbing imaginations with bug box building and a family picnic. On a personal note, my day was cheered by Phil’s success in the Tombola. Events like these always raise vital funds for local causes, so please support your village fete when it is held. Barrington’s Big Sing in Barrington Church was a brilliant example of local fundraising in action and the Grand Finale at the Royal Oak was a fitting end to a festive celebration.

The feasting continued as I attended Girton’s Feast Week BBQ. Good food was again on the menu at the Morden’s Save the Children’s Cream Tea celebration. I was so impressed by their £100,000 fundraising effort that an extra slice of cake seemed the best way to celebrate! Is it any wonder that they say MPs put a stone on in the first year or two after they are elected!

36

Science has been firmly on my agenda as I attended several events this month designed to increase young people’s interest in all things STEM. I was honoured to present young scientist certificates at the Cambourne Science Fair and join in with the Active Science Day at Cambridge United, co-hosted with the Cambridge Science Centre and Astra Zeneca. I spoke about the role science has played in my career as a politician with an astrophysics degree, at the Women in STEM event at Corpus Christi College. It is so invigorating to be in the presence of so many bright, investigative young minds.

The Greater Cambridge & Peterborough Local Enterprise Partnership panel debate gave me the opportunity to exchange views with the people making decisions that affect our local economy. I raised the same issues of growth, housing development, local services and transport with the new Chief Executive of South Cambs District Council, Beverley Agass when we met in July. To deliver the growth in our region in the right way, it is more important than ever that our stakeholders and public authorities work together, listening to the views and concerns of residents. I will continue to ensure the right people sit round the table together as we strive to find solutions to our challenges.

Many of you wrote to me about the Great Northern train timetable consultation; you can see my response to the proposals on my website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/news/heidi-allen-mp-submission-greatnorthern-train-consultation. I will keep pushing for changes to the timetable as the current offering does not, in my opinion, serve South Cambridgeshire’s commuters well. You have also raised bus transport issues with me, in light of Whippet’s announcement to reduce some of their services. I would encourage you to direct your concerns to your County Councillor, as these are the people who will advocate for your local route. I’ll be raising the strategic issue of South Cambs’ transport provision as a whole with our Mayor, James Palmer and the County Council at a strategic meeting later this month.

In August I moved my office to premises on Sawston High Street. We’ll be hosting regular open days. My next constituency surgeries are on Saturday 2nd September in Queen Edith’s and Saturday 21st October in Melbourn. These are drop in events with no appointment necessary.

Further information and news stories can always be found on my website www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk and you can email me at heidi.allen.mp@parliament.uk or telephone my office on (01223) 830037.

37

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38

Melbourn and Meldreth Women’s Group Our July meeting was held in Meldreth when we had a members’ music evening with people brought some music of their choice for us to listen to. We had time for reflection with The Miserere Mei and chanting of mantras from Tibetan monks. We were whisked off to places of relaxation with Il Divo and Alexander Armstrong (Pointless will never be quite the same as I will expect him to burst into song) and romance was in the air with The Carpenters and Michael Ball and Alfie Boe. Foot tapping was much in evidence as we listed to “Mad World” and more variety was added by Katherine Jenkins and Jacques Loussier.

Someone summed it up nicely at the end when they said “I have enjoyed listening to every piece of music tonight.”

This month’s meeting will be on 26th September, when we will be in Holy Trinity Meeting Room at our usual time of 7.45pm to hear Rev. Lizzie Shipp talk to us.

We will also be busy preparing for the Joint Parishes Harvest Supper which will take place in Meldreth Village Hall on 29th September, numbers are restricted and tickets will be available and must be purchased in advance.

If you would like to know more about the group, please contact one of the committee members: Pat Smith on (01763) 262575, Sue Toule on (01763) 260955, Anne Harrison on (01763) 261775 or Angela Leach on (01763) 262793.

Melbourn Bazaar We will be having a jewellery stall at the Bazaar in November and would be grateful for early donations to enable us to sort and price items. Remember if you have any odd gold earrings or cufflinks we will be happy to take them and we will sell them for scrap. As usual we could not do this without your support so we thank you in advance.

Pat Smith

Refuse Collections Collections in September will be on the following dates: Black bins: 5th & 19th Blue and Green bins: 12th & 26th 39

Maycroft Care Home As usual, life has been very busy at Maycroft since our last update, especially for the staff. Apart from the events in which we encourage the local residents to join us if they wish, we have occasions at the weekend when relatives and friends are invited too.

Our Proms are part of a regular series of entertainment for the residents and their families and friends. Again we had the pleasure of our dear friend Olivia Barry to sing old favourites some of which we could join in because they were easy on the voice and ear. During the interval we had delicious scones made in the kitchen with our own strawberry jam and cream. This sunny, musical afternoon concluded with a rousing renditions of Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory with much flag waving, which we all enjoyed immensely.

A week later we had a Hawaiian afternoon. Picture the flower laden, courtyard garden, when over 50 residents and families with leis around their necks gathered to hear Peter, from Juke Box Legends singing songs depicting sunny skies, golden sands and gently, swaying palm trees.

The afternoon was preceded by a chocolate fondue with strawberries and marshmallows to dip in. Bucks fizz and Helen's famous fruit punch were the much needed liquid refreshments. We had a fine afternoon of music and entertainment. As the visitors departed, quiet descended apart from tinkling tea spoons as the residents enjoyed their usual tea and settled down to a quiet evening.

For both these events we thank all the staff for the free time and extra efforts they put in to make every thing run so successfully.

Alongside all this extra fun the usual daily activities take place and staff training goes on. Advinia, the parent company, has introduced a new electronic medication system and some of the staff have been training to use this and they all seem to be doing well with it.

It is also the peak holiday season so Lynn the manager, along with Toni the assistant manager, Helen the office administrator and Hanna, Head of Care have been involved in making sure there is always sufficient staff to oversee the daily care of the residents. It is easy to forget all that has to go on to make Maycroft the deeply caring home that it is.

So far with all our outside events this summer we have been blessed with good weather. We hope this will also have been the case on 20th August for our planned sponsored village walk. In the next issue I 40

hope to be able to report that we have raised a sizeable sum for Alzheimer's Research UK, the charity that looks into all types of dementia.

Ray, Carol and Rosemary, friends of Maycroft

Meldreth WI There were a small but select few at our August meeting as lots of people were on holiday or perhaps looking after grandchildren.

Fran Saltmarsh gave us a enlightening talk on Georgian Society and Costume. Oh my! All those whale bones and corsets and that was not only the ladies. What would they say about today's fashions? During that time silk was very fashionable and Sudbury was one of the main places where it was made. The ladies showed off their silk and lace and the more lace thy had the wealthier they were. Oxford Street, and of course Regent Street, were the places to be seen. There were many famous names throughout that period; two of the most famous being Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson and Emma Hamilton. Although both were married they began a long love affair, having one daughter Horatia. After Nelson's death Emma became penniless, living on handouts from friends and died a lonely and sad death. It all happened in Georgian times!!

Future meetings and visits were discussed. These will include a morning visit to Eltham Palace the childhood home of Henry VIII now restored by the Courtauld family followed after lunch by a visit to the Red House inspired by William Morris, artist and founder of the Arts and Crafts movement. We will also be visiting Thursford to see the Christmas spectacular. There are also lots of local visits planned.

The walking group still walk on Monday afternoons although I think just lately they should have been dressed in sou'westers and macs! The keep fit is still popular too.

This month, on 14th September at 7.30pm in the Village Hall, Geoff Evans will be returning to speak to us. His subject this time is 'Wet Wild and Green'. There will also be a produce auction. This was very popular last year with lots of home grown and home made things. This will be an open meeting so all husbands, daughters sons and friends are welcome.

Kathleen Thompson 41

Joint Parishes Harvest Supper The Harvest Supper will take place on Friday 29th September in Meldreth Village Hall. Tickets cost £6.50 and are available from Sue Toule on (01763) 260955 and Mary Bailey on (01763) 220171.

Numbers are limited so tickets must be purchased in advance. There is a list to sign up to if you would like to make a salad or an apple pie and expenses may be claimed from Sue Toule. As always we are grateful for those who are willing to help with the food or on the night with the setting up and clearing away.

Pat Smith Melbourn & Meldreth Women’s Group

Elin Way Lunch Club Menu Friday 20th October: £8.00 Home made steak, mushroom and onion pies Apple crumble Friday 1st December: £12.50 Christmas dinner turkey Trifle or Christmas pudding Lunch will be served at 1.00pm on the above dates and will finish at around 3.00 to 3.30pm.

The Club is open to the over 50s. Lunch must be booked in advance by calling Eileen Allan, Estate Officer on 07712 411976.

If you book to have a meal and then are unable to attend, we would appreciate it if you could still pay for your meal as the food will have been ordered and paid for. Thank you.

For further information, please contact Eileen Allan, Estate Officer on 07712411976 or email eileen.allan@scambs.gov.uk.

Eileen Allan Sheltered Housing Estate Officer 42

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Melbourn and District Photographic Club http://melbournphotoclub.com The new season starts with another full and varied programme for the autumn months including two lectures, three competitions and three club evenings. September’s meetings are as follows: 12th: Welcome Evening, including some members’ stories 19th: Group critique evening by members 26th: Looking Local. Lecture by Chris Shepherd Meetings are held weekly from 7.30 - 9.30pm on Tuesdays at Foxton Village Hall from September to April.

The Club has a diverse membership, a friendly and supportive atmosphere and welcomes new members, whatever their ability.

Anyone wishing to know more details or see some of our work should visit our website at melbournphotoclub.com or email the club Secretary, Peter North, at: melbournphotoclub@hotmail.com.

Peter North

Royston Swimathon 2017 Sunday 15th October 2017 - 6.00pm to 10.00pm Royston Leisure Centre, Woodcock Road Royston, SG8 7XT Teams may have up to six members, who swim in relay for 55 minutes.

Each team member needs to seek sponsors for the number of lengths the team (not the individual) completes.

Of the sponsorship money your team raises, 50% will go to your own chosen charity or in-house project, 50% of the retained monies raised will be donated to The East Anglian Children’s Hospice and the balance will be given to other Rotary charities.

Closing date for entries: Sunday 1st October 2017.

More information including an entry form can be found online at www.roystonrotary.com or contact Howard Peacock howard@ilam.me or 07711 471 470.

Howard Peacock Rotary Club of Royston 44

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The Letting Centre Setting Standards in Property Management Established 23 years, The Letting Centre is a local, dedicated letting agency based in Melbourn. With longstanding clients some of whom have been with us for 20 years or more, we aim to provide a personal, tailored service covering Cambridge, Royston, Buntingford, Saffron Walden and surrounding villages.

We offer discounted fees for multiple properties, as well as those located in Melbourn and surrounding area.

Call us for a free market appraisal and comprehensive landlord pack.

The Letting Centre, 24b Orchard Road, Melbourn, Cambridgeshire SG8 6HH Tel. 01763 263039

Fax 01763 263458 email enquiries@letting-centre.co.uk www.letting-centre.co.uk

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Meldreth Primary School www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk Building Dens in Melwood During the Summer Term, Swallow class of 7-9 year olds were lucky enough to have the opportunity to work with a team from Melwood and the ‘Real Life Trust’ on a special ‘Den Building’ project. The aim of the project was to engage the children with outdoor learning, teach them some craft skills, and leave them with a finished product that they could be proud of. They used a range of knots to help them build some truly brilliant structures from a range of both natural and man made materials. The children thoroughly enjoyed their time in the woods, and the teachers and helpers were extremely proud of their outstanding team work.

Swallow Class are AMAZING den builders! By Eva R On a Wednesday morning in the summer, full of excitement, Swallow Class put on their sun hats and confidently strolled down to Melwood Meadow.

There waiting for us was a demonstration den, plus a lot of materials.

We were put into groups.

In my group were: Oscar, Finley, Myles, Rhys SJ and me. Our helpers were Mrs Pav. and Tony (a helper who came with the den men). We had to think of a group name and ours was 'The Conkers'!

There were also 'The Stags', 'The Badgers', 'The Den-gineers' and 'JMCET team'.

First, we collected sticks. They were ready for us in groups of eleven.

We had one person at each end and one in the middle, to carry them.

We took them back to the meadow.

Secondly, we had to put four sticks in a square and overlap the corners.

Next, we had to put two long pieces of string in a cross. We tied them to opposite corners. On one side we used a normal knot and on the other side we used another knot, called a sailor's knot.

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After that, we stood it up and put on the supporting sticks, to the two top corners. The knots were just normal ones. Finally, we made one last triangle to be the entrance. We propped it up against the main structure and then tied it to it.

We had great fun sitting in our dens and listening to a story from the story-teller who helped us build the dens. It was all about a Greek God.

Swallow’s Dentastic Den Building! By Annabel W First we had to walk through the dark woods and out into the meadow. When we arrived, we saw our old friend Bruce and his team. They had already built up a demonstration den for us. I felt really excited to get going.

Bruce introduced us to Tony and Ian and after Tony had shown us how to build our dens, we collected eleven long, big wood sticks and got into our groups. We named our group, ‘The Mighty Stags’ and we were the first to get working, but suddenly Tony came over and told us we had to move our spot. Eventually we settled down and started to build our den.

When we had finished building our amazing den, I was happy, hot and tired. I made a flag for it out of paper. The den was big enough for all five of us to fit in – but not including Bruce! Tony stepped up and told us a story about an oak tree that told all of the people to believe in what it said. When the story was over, we sang a song and Miss McGinty took us to play on the field. On the field, the grass was so long and soft, but then my knee got spiked by a thorn, but I was OK. Finally, we walked back to the dens and said ‘goodbye’ to Tony, Graham, Ian and of course, Bruce. I was very happy about all of it but my favourite part was the song. It was the best day ever … and I want to say a big ‘thank you’ to Bruce!

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Meldreth Primary School

THE WALKERS PARTNERSHIP SOLICITORS DO YOU NEED TO MAKE A WILL OR REVISE YOUR EXISTING WILL? If so, please take advantage of our reduced rate wills offer.

Please note that reduced rate wills will be available every week day from 8.00am until 6.00pm and on Tuesdays evenings until 8.00pm, by appointment only.

Also on the Saturday mornings of 9th and 23rd SEPTEMBER, again by appointment only: Reduced rates are:Double Wills - £250.00 plus VAT Single Will - £130.00 plus VAT HOME VISITS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE WITHIN A 20 MILE RADIUS OF ROYSTON. For more information please contact:Fish Hill Chambers, 2-3 Fish Hill, Royston, Herts SG8 9JY Tel: 01763 241121 t.donnellan@walkerspartnership.co.uk Little Hands Nursery School The Moor, Melbourn

Little Hands is a Private Nursery School specialising in quality education for the under fives and offers: Flexible hourly booking - open 08.30 to 16.30 Term time bookings with optional holiday club Bumble Bee room for children 12 – 24 months Ladybird room for 2 year olds Butterfly room for children 3-5 years With optional “ready for school sessions” All sessions have a high staff to child ratio and are available for eligible funded 2 year olds and all funded 3/4 year olds with no extra charges Categorised as “Outstanding” by Ofsted

For further information contact Anne McCrossen: 01763 260964 lh-melbourn@btconnect.com Little Hands is also at Bourn, Linton and Newton visit the website at www.littlehands.co.uk

Village Garden Services Contact : Campbell Weir Mobile : 07798 924022 Home : 01223 207583 Email : campbell.weir@outlook.com Reliable and friendly service for all your general garden maintenance needs and much more ...… !

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What’s On for Children and Families in September These events are taking place in the local area. For Meldreth events, please see page 9.

Saturday 2nd September, 11.00am – 3.00pm Sensational Scents, Botanic Gardens, Cambridge CB2 1JE Free drop-in event for accompanied children (adults pay admission).

Investigate the scents of plants and make pot pourri from flowers. For details ring (01223) 331875.

Sunday 3rd September, 11.00am – 4.30pm Nostalgia Day, Prickwillow Museum, near Ely CB7 4UN Cars, tractors, engines and information about fenland drainage. £5 adults, £2 children over 6, £12 for families.

Friday 15th September, 7.30 – 9.00pm Brilliant Bats, Trumpington Meadows, Grantchester Road CB2 9LH (meet at Byron’s Pool car park) See and hear bats. Rangers will provide bat detectors and torches. All ages welcome.

See: www.wildlifebcn.org.

Saturday 16th September, from 1.00pm Gamlingay Village Show, Gamlingay First School, Green End, Gamlingay SG19 3LE Classic car show, football competition, rugby demonstration, dog show, fun fair, stalls, refreshments, fun run, magician. Tickets £3/£1.50 concessions. More information: www.gamlingayshow.co.uk.

Saturday 16th September, 12 noon – 6.00pm Cherry Hinton Festival Day, Recreation Ground, High Street Free admission and explorer-themed activities; investigate the cave system, be an archaeologist, have a go at Minecraft building, listen to stories, try crafts and sports, find out about stem cells and lots more.

For full details see: www.cherryhintonfestival.org.

Sunday 17th September, 10.00am – 3.00pm Fowlmere Discovery Day, RSPB, Mill Road, Fowlmere SG8 7SH Take part in hands-on nature activities such as pond dipping, owl pellet dissection, moth trapping. Adults £4 (£2 members), children £2 (£1 Wildlife Explorers) For details ring (01767) 693333.

Compiled by Hilary Crawforth 49

Local Events in September Here is a selection of events happening nearby this month. To have your event listed, please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Saturday 2nd September, 10.00am to 12.00pm Orwell Pannier Market, Orwell Village Hall, Cambs SG8 5QN Lively monthly village market - more than 25 stalls with a mix of food, crafts, horticulture, etc. Tearoom serving refreshments, homemade cakes – and bacon butties! For more information ring (01223) 207585.

Saturday 2nd September, 12.00pm to 4.30pm Stourbridge Medieval Fair at the Leper Chapel Barnwell Junction, Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8JJ Re-enactment of medieval fair with dancing, singing, story-telling and talks on the chapel’s fascinating history. Free but donations welcome.

For more information visit: www.cambridgeppf.org.

Sunday 3rd September, 4.30pm to 7.00pm ‘Pride and Prejudice’, Chapterhouse Theatre Company Institute of Continuing Education, Madingley Hall CB23 8AQ New adaptation of the classic love story. Open air production – please bring your own rugs or low-backed seats. Tea/cakes available or enjoy your own picnic. Book online: www.chapterhouse.org/show6.html or call (01223) 746222. Tickets £16; children/students £12.

Wednesdays 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th September, 11.00am to 1.00pm Wimpole’s Wednesday Walk, Wimpole Hall, Arrington SG8 0BW Different guided walk each week; 2.5 to 4.5 miles – views, wildlife and snippets of history. Some paths muddy. Meet Stable Block 10.45am.

Thursday 7th September, 8.00pm to 10.00pm Cambridge Guitar Club, St James Centre, Wulfstan Way CB1 8QJ Bring your own guitar and have fun playing. Classical, flamenco and steel string guitars. All standards welcome or just come along and listen.

Entrance £3. See www.cambridgeguitarclub.awardspace.co.uk.

Saturday 9th September, 11.00am to 4.30pm Houghton Mill – Heritage Open Day Houghton, near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 2AZ Come and meet some of the people who would have worked here in Victorian times; mill working during the afternoon using water power to produce stoneground flour. Free event; normal National Trust admission. Call (01480) 301494 or visit www.national trust.co.uk.

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Saturday 9th to Wednesday 13th September, 12.00pm to 4.00pm Peckover House and Garden – What’s in There?

Peckover House, North Brink, Wisbech, Cambs PE13 1JR Special interest days with access to doors, drawers and cupboards not normally open to the public. Free event, no booking needed; normal National Trust admission applies. See www.wherecanwego.com.

Tuesday 12th September, 7.45pm to 9.45pm Royston and District Choral Society – Open Invitation Parish Church, Melbourn Street, Royston, Hertfordshire SG8 7BP Come along and discover why singing in choirs has become so popular! Not a formal audition but a chance to join in an open rehearsal. Friendly and varied choir – new members always welcome. For more information: www.roystonchoralsoc.org; call Heather Howard on (01763) 662109 or email: heather@lemonyellow.org.

Friday 22nd September, 10.00am to 4.30pm Rush-Weaving Workshop, Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve Lode Lane Wicken, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 5XP Local basket-maker Nadine Anderson teaches how to make your own rush mats and baskets. Booking essential. Normal Reserve admission charges plus small materials cost payable to tutor.

Call (01353) 720274.

Saturday 23rd September, 8.30am Men’s Breakfast, Foxton Village Hall CB22 6RN This month Davina Frost and Heidi Clark will talk about the work of Cambridge Lupus UK, a charity offering support to those suffering from this immune system illness. Contact Tony Garrick (01223) 510201 garrick.tony@gmail.com or Mark Howard (01223) 503377 mark-howard@uwclub.net to reserve your place. All are welcome.

Saturday 23rd (9.00 am to 6.00pm) and Sunday 24th September (10.00am to 5.00pm) St Ives Food and Drink Festival Market Hill, St Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5AL Live music, appetising food, craft beers plus a variety of stalls in the old Sheep Market area. For more information: call (01832) 281274 or visit www.marketsquaregroup.co.uk/core/event-lite?id=251.

Compiled by John Crawforth 51

Bridge the Gap: Sunday 10th September Bridge the Gap 2017 gives walkers a unique opportunity to visit seven of Cambridge’s historic Colleges and gardens: Downing College, Corpus Christi, St Catharine’s College, St John’s College, Jesus College, Christ’s College and Emmanuel College. The event will start from Parker’s Piece, with the first tranche of walkers setting off at 9.30am and the last by 10.30am, for a circular wheelchair and pushchair friendly route of approximately five miles.

This ever-popular event is once again raising much needed money for two local charities: Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and Romsey Mill.

Headline sponsor, The Cambridge Building Society, provide volunteer and financial support and will also enter a 100-strong team of staff.

Entry is just £18 per person. With up to four children free per paying adult, this is a very small fee for what is guaranteed to be fun day for all members of the family. For those unable to commit in advance, the option to pay on the day will be available subject to availability at the increased rate of £20 per adult. There are also corporate rates available for groups of 10 or more enabling businesses to offer team building staff or a staff social at really attractive prices.

Participants can register online at arhc.org.uk/bridgethegap or by picking up a registration form at any branch of The Cambridge Building Society, where staff can always share their experience of the walk and their previous involvement as participants or volunteers.

Leanne Simons Cambridge Building Society

Forthcoming Event On Sunday 15th October at 3.00pm Link Murang’a will present a concert in All Saints Community Room, Melbourn featuring local musicians and singers in aid of the Kambiti dispensary project.

Donations of £7 per ticket which includes tea and cake. A raffle will be drawn during the interlude.

For further details contact Bernice on 07507 863232 or (01763) 261950 or Karen on (01763) 261885.

Bernice Gregory 52

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*Unit 2 * Whitecroft Road * Meldreth * Herts * SG8 6NE * 53

Music Course for Those Living with Dementia Starting in October 2017 and running for 10 weeks at the Salvation Army Hall in Saffron Walden, Together in Sound music therapy groups will bring the power of music to those living with dementia. There will be opportunities to sing, play and listen to live music together, with weekly sessions led by music therapists from Anglia Ruskin University and visiting professional musicians from Saffron Hall.

There will be a taster session on Friday 22nd September for anyone interested in participating in the course. This will be an opportunity to meet the Together in Sound team and decide together if the group is right for participants. The taster session is only open to those living with dementia and their carers and numbers are limited.

An information sheet and application form is available at www.saffronhall.com/togetherinsound or by calling (01799) 588545.

For more information please contact Saffron Hall Learning & Participation: togetherinsound@saffronhall.com / 01799 588533.

Tom Dickinson Marketing & Development Co-ordinator Saffron Hall

Addenbrooke’s Breast Cancer Appeal Let’s get this party started to help breast cancer patients The annual Addenbrooke’s Breast Cancer Appeal, organised by Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT), asks people to host a party for family, friends, work colleagues or fellow students this October to help raise money to transform care for patients. Party suggestions include getting together for tea and cake, a prosecco party, office party or even a summer ‘BooBieQ’.

To get involved and find out more, email fundraising@act4addenbrookes.org.uk , call 01223 349885 or visit www.act4addenbrookes.org.uk/ABCappeal.

Jo Elliott Head of Communications Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust 54

live happy! with

Slimming World

MELDRETH WEDNESDAY 5.30pm & 7.30pm Meldreth Village Hall Hig h Street, Tel: Alison 07812 825 389 slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000

HOME-START ROYSTON & SOUTH CAMBRIDGESHIRE Notice of ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING to be held at Icknield Walk First School, 38, Poplar Drive, Royston, Herts, SG8 7ER on Wednesday 4th October, 2017 7.30pm for 8.00pm Refreshments will be available from 7.30pm Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire is a company limited by guarantee (England and Wales) Company Registration No: 5183873. Charity No: 1105385 55

Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire www.hsrsc.org.uk Become a Friend of Home-Start Royston & South Cambridgeshire (HSRSC)

There is no charge to becoming a Friend of HSRSC and as a Friend you will receive regular updates of all our future events and activities. As and when you are available, we would also encourage you to get involved and support our fundraising team in a variety of different ways from volunteering your time at events, to helping to promote our work, to baking cakes or collecting donations on our behalf.

If you would like more information on how to support our charity and how to get more involved, please send us an email with your contact details to: admin@hsrsc.org.uk. In the meantime, we would like to invite you to look at our web site on: www.hsrsc.org.uk.

We very much look forward to hearing from you.

Tracy Aggett

Walk for Parkinson’s: Saturday 30th September Join us for a 1.5 or 4.5 mile walk around the beautiful grounds of Wandlebury Country Park in Cambridgeshire. Dogs on leads are welcome. Entry is £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s. On the day registration is also available at £15 for adults and £7.50 for under 16s (cash only). Before the walk we’ll send you a free Parkinson’s UK Tshirt, walk number and fundraising pack. There’s no minimum sponsorship required to take part, but we suggest that all walkers aim to raise at least £50. Register online now at parkinsons.org.uk/ walkwandlebury or get in touch for more information 020 7963 3912 fundraising@parkinsons.org.uk.

Michelle Henderson, Parkinson’s UK Regional Fundraiser for Cambs, Beds, Herts and N’Hants 56

Fire & Rescue Service www.cambsfire.gov.uk Before they head back to school, take the opportunity to teach your children about fire safety and design your very own fire escape plan for them to share with teachers and other students back in the classroom.

We recommend that every household has a fire escape plan and regularly runs through it with the family – especially when guests are coming to stay.

Here are a few things to consider when writing yours: Everyone should know where the window and door keys are.

Your normal way out of the house is your best escape route so always keep it clear of clutter - think of the difficulties you'll have using this route in pitch darkness or smoke.

Walk your escape route with the rest of your family or housemates and make sure everyone can open windows and doors easily.

If you know someone who is vulnerable or may have trouble escaping from their house in a fire, get in touch with us to see if we can help by calling 0800 917 9994.

For the latest news, incidents and safety advice, or to contact us, log on to www.cambsfire.gov.uk. Sign up to email alerts and find us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.

Cambridge Fire & Rescue Service

Retired or Soon to Retire?

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity is running a free event to help you to take control of your future and relax into retirement.

When: Wednesday 20 September 2017 Where: Girton College, Cambridge, CB3 0JG Time: 1.15 - 4.30 pm Find out more and book your place now arhc.org.uk/lookahead 01223 675888

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Lucy Day Arthur Rank Hospice Charity

Cycling Group Good Companions Local History Group Lunch Club Melwood Cons. Group

John Rogger (01763) 260809 L. Pocknell—(01763) 261432 (01763) 260129; www.meldrethhistory.org.uk Nikki & Julie 07599 292327 (01763) 232855; www.melwood.btck.co.uk www.melbourn-photographic-club.co.uk

Revelation U3A WI

Miriam Skuce—(01763) 262440 Chris Davison—(01763) 264189 Jane Bates-(01763) 261638

Bowls Club Croquet Club Meldreth United FC Table Tennis Tennis Club

Shirley Lambert (01223) 207888 Janet Pope (01763) 248342 07930 650036 Christine Knight—(01763) 261676 (01763) 243376; http://cspark.at/Meldr2

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

(01763) 220626; www.meldrethchurch.org.uk (01763) 261569 Peter Hinton—(01763) 262045 (01763) 260048; www.foht.org.uk

Baby & Toddler Group Pre-School Primary School

Rosalind Wing - 07432 150721 07518 173653; www.meldrethPreschool.com (01763) 260432; www.meldreth.cambs.sch.uk

Parish Council District Councillor District Council Offices

Please see details at end of Parish Council report Philippa Hart—(01763) 261255 03450 450500; www.scambs.gov.uk/ Susan van de Ven—07905325574 susanvandeven.mycouncillor.org.uk/ 0345 045 5200; www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ Heidi Allen—(01954) 212707; www.heidisouthcambs.co.uk/

Councils & Govt.

Photographic Group

Sport

(01763) 262199 Mick Taylor—(01763) 261118 Graham Borgonon—(01763) 260358 (01763) 262158, open 7am-10pm, 7 days Sherida Richards—(01763) 262512 Paul Ray—(01763) 260304

Church

Community Access Point Litter Picker Neighbourhood Watch One Stop Village Hall Bookings Village Hall Chairman

Childn.

Clubs & Societies

Facilities

Village Directory

County Councillor County Council Offices MP

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Transport Health Support Services Emergencies NonEmerg.

Misc.

Station Ticket Office

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 7-11.15am, Sat 8.45am - 1.25pm

Rail User Group

(01763) 261833; www.melbourn.org.uk/railusergroup

Govia/Great Northern

www.thameslinkrailway.com

The Trainline Stagecoach Potholes, Highways problems, etc.

Streetlights (faulty)

www.thetrainline.com www.stagecoachbus.com/Cambridge 0345 045 5212; http://www2.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ HighwaysReports/Highways/ReportProblem1.aspx 08007838 247 - give location, fault & SC or CCC no.

Melbourn Surgery Addenbrooke’s NHS

(01763) 260220; Dispensary—(01763) 261246 (01223) 245151 111 (24 hour non-emergency number)

Childline

Community Transport Home-Start 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 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

Royston Museum

(01763) 242587; www.roystonmuseum.org.uk

Citizens Advice Bureau

Police

Details of village groups and facilities can be found in the Meldreth Today section at www.meldrethhistory.org.uk.

Meldreth Matters Team: Chairman: Lesley Farbridge 261578; Editor & Layout: Kathryn Betts 268428; Distribution & Proof-reading: Ken McLean 261243; Treasurer, Secretary & Trade Advertising: Beverley Cottrell 262176; Cover & Advertising Layout: Richard Burns 263121; Founder Member: Ann Barnes Meldreth Matters is available online at issuu.com (search for Meldreth)

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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 .....................................18 Abode Town and Country ........Cover Affordable Plumbing ........................7 Art of Clean ....................................45 Art of Clean Wood ..........................15 B2B Automotive ..............................53 Benjamin and Fredericks ..................8 Cam Valley Orchards ......................18 Cambourne Self Storage ..................45 Cambridge Roofers .........................32 Cambridge Sunblinds ................Cover CHS Day Centre .............................35 CHS Group ..............................Cover Coton Electrical ..............................38 The Country Store ...........................25 Ely Design Group .............................2 Eternit Sports and Social Club ..........18 Four Counties Tree Services ............53 Gilhooly ..........................................38 Handyman .......................................2 Home Foot Care .............................12 iPlaster ............................................15 Keyholes Driving School ................25 Lawn Partners .................................18 The Letting Centre ..........................45 Little Hands Nursery School ...........48

Mandy Thornton Counselling ..........12 Melbourn Flooring ...........................32 Melbourn Village College (1) .............8 Melbourn Village College (2) ............35 Meldreth Landscapes .......................32 Meldreth Plant Hire .........................17 Michael Easton Personal Trainer ......15 Moncraft Computers ........................25 Nancy Foster Footcare ......................2 Newlings of Royston Funeral Service48 Nigel Wigg Home Improvement .......53 Penn Farm Physiotherapy ..................38 The Plough, Shepreth .........................7 Quicksilver Yoga ..............................25 Reed Autos .................................Cover Reflections Hair Studio .....................8 Richard Burns Electrician ..................15 Rod’s PC Support .............................12 Royston Fencing ...............................45 Shelford Energy ................................25 Slimming World ...............................55 Spice Hut Indian Takeaway ..............35 Summit Landscapes ............................2 Village Cycles ....................................7 Village Garden Services ....................48 Walkers Partnership Solicitors ...........48 60

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