Melbourne Village Voice December 2016

’Tis the season of goodwill all year

AS WE approach Christmas and think of the spirit of goodwill, it is good to reflect on the goodwill that is shown to others throughout the year by members of our community.

Melbourne and the villages are not unique in this but they certainly play their part. News of charitable giving features regularly in the Village Voice and it is heartening to know that we belong to a caring society.

It has been a difficult year for many locally with the ongoing pressures of proposed new developments.

Some people have continued to experience flooding of their homes and residents have worked with officials in order to pursue and explore the reasons for the flooding and to take action to rectify the causes.

The closure of the NatWest bank has

also brought inconvenience and difficulties to many. The year has also seen the winding up of Melbourne Rotary Club, a sad end for an organisation that has featured as a prime source of charitable giving both locally and internationally for many years.

However, it has not been all gloom and doom. The ongoing successes of the Melbourne Carnival and the Art Festival, the Welldressing at Aston and the Scarecrow Trail at Weston have been positive reminders of the community spirit that exists. And, with the opening of the new facilities at the Melbourne Sports Park, there is much to be grateful for.

n With this edition the Village Voice moves into its 25th year of publication and we can reflect on the contribution it makes to community life in Mel-

bourne and the surrounding villages.

Firstly, it is a community newspaper that is delivered by a team of volunteers in over 20 villages and hamlets with news of what is happening in those communities. It is also a vehicle that advertises products and services for local businesses.

It is because of the commitment of these volunteers and the continued advertising of businesses that the Village Voice has been able to continue. Adding to its success are the many contributors of editorial material, some of whom have been longstanding and others giving ad-hoc input.

The Village Voice acknowledges and appreciates their collective efforts and contributions with a sincere Thank You and Best Wishes to you all at this Christmas time.

HOMES RULING OVERTURNED

by FRANK HUGHES

THE development of 34 additional houses on the outskirts of Melbourne has now been given the green light following the recent Inquiry by the Planning Inspectorate held in October.

Inspector Martin Whitehead has allowed the appeal by Investin Properties (Jersey) for development on the Bond Elm site adjacent to Jawbone Lane.

The main reason for allowing it is that he did not accept that South Derbyshire District Council could show it had a five-year housing supply, despite this being accepted previously by other Inspectors and by the Local Plan examiner.

Nor did he accept arguments put forward by the council and objectors that the development would have significant harm on the character of the conservation area of King’s Newton and the surrounding landscape. He recorded that he considered there was only “minor harm” to the setting of the King’s Newton Conservation Area and that “it would not cause harm to the character and appearance” of the surrounding landscape.

Residents have been reacting angrily on social media. “RIP Melbourne and King’s Newton”, says one resident – another describing the decision as “unbelievable”.

The inspector appears to have given little importance to policies set out in South Derbyshire District’s Local Plan to protect settlement boundaries and preserve the

countryside, but instead he has focussed on the presumption in favour of development.

The planning team at the South Derbyshire council are understood to be disappointed at the outcome and to be considering their response.

Councillor John Harrison said: “The district council believes that it made the right decision when it rejected the application, having regard to Part 1 of the new Local Plan being signed off by another planning inspector only a few weeks earlier. The appeal decision is an unexpected surprise.” n There was better news for the residents of Breedon on the Hill when North West Leicestershire District Council decided to reject the planning application for 27 homes in the village.

Full story on Page 7.

l Melbourne took to the streets for its traditional festive shopping night, while Jack Robinson (below) took the chance to test his driving skills.

Queen’s thank you letter to young Zoe

A LETTER from the Queen plopped through the letterbox of this nine-year-old girl from Breedon, after she had written to wish Her Majesty a happy 90th birthday.

Zoe Philipson wrote to the monarch to express her birthday good wishes back in April.

Three weeks ago, she received a personal reply from the Queen’s lady-in-waiting, apologising for the delay in responding and thanking Zoe for the “splendid little photograph” she had sent.

Zoe had told the Queen that this year she had been suffering with a bad leg, after doctors found a bone cyst.

That has meant that Zoe, a keen gymnast and swimmer, has had to be on crutches and out of action for many months while medics worked to fix the problem, including surgery at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham over the summer.

The letter from Buckingham Palace said Her Majesty was “sorry to hear” that Zoe had been having problems with her leg.

Zoe said she was “really really excited” to receive a reply to her card, which she said she wrote “because I thought it might be a kind thing to do, and that not many people would do it”.

Mum Clare said: “I’m just majorly impressed – I was hoping that she’d get something but to get what she did get was just lovely.”

Zoe is now recovering well.

Village homes plan gets thumbs-down

PROPOSALS for up to 85 homes between Aston and Weston-on-Trent have been thrown out by councillors.

A meeting of South Derbyshire District Council’s Planning Committee took around 10 minutes for members unanimously to reject the application by Richborough Homes, which would have seen the new development built on farmland bordered by Yates Avenue, Laurel Drive and Weston Road.

Sharon Bowler, chair of Save Aston and Weston Village Environments, spoke at the meeting in objection to the proposals.

She said that when local residents had first heard of the plans in March, the reaction was “an overwhelming no” but that this was not a “knee jerk, not in my backyard response”.

She said: “Building 85 houses would obliterate all that clearly defines the uniqueness and independence of both Aston and Weston. Indeed, if this development went ahead it would reduce the physical separation of the two villages by almost 50 per cent.”

Planners received 245 objection letters to Richborough’s proposals, and the en-

trance to a public exhibition held by the developer in March was lined with angry placards.

Richborough, which did not send a representative to argue on its behalf at the meeting, said its development offered a “great opportunity to deliver high quality housing for the village of Aston-on-Trent”.

The council’s planning department had recommended the homes for refusal.

The basis of that was that the site was outside Aston-on-Trent and not included in the Local Plan – the document that sets out what land is earmarked for housebuilding in this area.

An extract from the council’s refusal notice reads: “The proposal would result in the enclosure and sub-urbanisation of an area of land which contributes significantly to the open, legible and spacious break in-between the built environment of Aston-on-Trent and Weston-on-Trent, and would result in significant harm to the character and appearance of the area and the local landscape - visually and perceptually reducing the separation of the two settlements to an unacceptable degree.”

FARM REAPS

A MELBOURNE farm has won a major national award for the quality of its beef.

–Lucy Stephens

Tori and Ben Stanley, from Park Farm near Melbourne Hall, were crowned Beef Innovators of the Year at the British Farming Awards. The farming couple, who lease their land from Lord and Lady Ralph Kerr at Melbourne Hall, beat off competition from across the UK to win the prize.

Tori and Ben farm Pedigree Longhorn cattle, the oldest native breed in Britain. They started farming in 2006, went solo in 2010 with 30 sheep and two cows, which has now been built up to a 40-strong growing herd.

l Tori and Ben Stanley at the British Farming Awards with Emma Penny (left) and Steph Ryder (right).

Calke Park ‘like a mini Center Parcs’

NATIONAL Trust leaders from Calke Abbey have been accused of turning the historic grounds into a theme park by asking to install a new family friendly cycle trail.

At the latest meeting of South Derbyshire District Council’s Planning Committee, Calke Abbey was granted permission to build the cycle and walking trail around the grounds – but the meeting also heard complaints from Ticknall residents that they were being swamped with extra cars parked by visitors who did not want to pay National Trust fees to enter the grounds, and that the new trail would make the problem worse.

Paul Colleyshaw, from Ticknall Parish

Council, told the meeting: “No provision has been made in this application for parking in Calke Park for visitors using the new cycle trail.

“Ticknall is already inundated with visitors who park in the village hall car park and surrounding roads. The visitor numbers that the National Trust has estimated for the future will only make this situation worse.”

The meeting also heard fears that combining cycling and walking on the same trail – up to two metres wide – might be dangerous for the walkers.

Calke had applied to create the trail after forecasting 100,000 extra visitors a year over the next 10 years.

The idea was to help dissipate numbers by drawing some visitors away from the main house and grounds.

Calke Abbey general manager Stewart Alcock told the meeting that, while the estate did accept that it “plays a part in local concerns” over traffic, it did not believe itself wholly responsible for Ticknall’s parking problems.

The cycle trail was supported by planning officers and the National Forest.

A council report said Calke’s plans helped support healthy lifestyles in the district by providing much-needed open space for exercise.

Committee member councillor Martyn Ford said: “Anybody who uses our rural

roads and villages at the weekends, they are getting swamped.

I remember when Calke Park was a hidden jewel … now it seems they are turning Calke Park into a mini Center Parcs. If people want to cycle they can go for a bike ride round the Velodrome as far as I’m concerned.”

Fellow councillor Mike Stanton said: “South Derbyshire District Council has for many years been encouraging tourism; quite naturally the National Trust has been supporting this in a very large way.

“The national Government has been encouraging people to cycle to keep fit. But what this doesn’t take into consideration is the people who are stuck in the area and that’s the people of Ticknall who are being smothered by the National Trust.”

Councillor Lisa Brown, chairing the meeting, urged Calke to start a liaison committee with the parish council to sort out parking, saying: “The National Trust has some way to go in improving relations with the local community.”

–Lucy Stephens

The Castle Inn - 2 High Street - Castle Donington - DE74 2PP 01332 391296 www.the-castle-inn.co.uk

n KINGS Newton Social Group started its celebrations early with a Christmas party on November 26. Guests were welcomed on arrival with tunes from a barrel organ and all were offered a glass of mulled wine.

The committee formed a choir to lead the singing of carols and Christmas songs. Santa also visited the party with a present for everyone, and there was a festive buffet to enjoy during the evening.

Santa’s busy schedule

THE programme for Santa and his helpers to visit Melbourne households this year has been organised by Melbourne Rugby Club and is as follows:

Sunday, December 11, starting at 5pm: Oaklands Way, The Woodlands, Nettlefold Crescent, Smith Ave, Main Street Kings Newton, Station Road, Sweet Leys Way Estate, Huntingdon Ct, The Crescent.

Monday 12, starting at 6pm: Derby Rd, Blanchcroft, George St, Dunnicliffe Lane, Moira St, Selina St, Washington Close, Quick Close, South St, Alma St, North St, Victoria St.

Wednesday 14, starting at 6pm: Ticknall village.

Friday 16, starting at 6pm: From Melbourne Arms, Ashby Road, Penn Lane, Peniston Close, Salsbury Lane, up Church St, turn and down Church Street, Castle Mills, Castle St, Jubilee Close, The Lilypool, Chapel St, Potter St.

Sunday 18, starting at 5pm: Packhorse Rd, Queensway, Derby Road, Windsor Ave, Melton Ave, Spinney Hill and side roads, Cockshut Lane, Commerce St, Hope St.

CHURCH CHOIR CAROLS

THE Melbourne Parish Church Choir will be singing carols at The Dower House on Wednesday, December 21. The choir will arrive at 7.45pm, and the evening will conclude at 9pm following the serving of mulled wine and mince pies. All proceeds will go to support Melbourne Community Care. Tickets, at £10 each, are available by emailing griseldakerr@btinternet.com

The Marlow Gallery

17 potter street, MeLBoUrNe DerBYsHIre De73 1DW

As the only privately owned, family run Funeral Directors in Melbourne we are able to offer an extremely personal yet professional service at a reasonable cost, both in Leicestershire and Derbyshire.

Under the personal supervision of John Springthorpe Quotations given telephone: Melbourne (01332) 865511

At ANY tIMe

Country Living

with Robert Parker

ANOTHER year closes, and it seems impossible that it has passed so quickly.

I don’t look back on 2016 as a good year apart, I suppose, from the weather which generally speaking – except for some excessive rain in June – was broadly on our side.

This autumn has been superb and, as I write this, we still have several groups of cattle outdoors getting most of their sustenance off grass. This is very unusual for December.

Our farming and family life has had a pretty awful year, starting in February with a fire in one of our buildings. Since then everything that could go wrong seems to have done so. Most of the problems were out of our control, so nothing could have avoided them, and I believe we have a great deal of uncertainty in front of us.

Brexit throws up a good deal of problems for

the country and, although I voted out, I do feel we are in for a difficult ride.

n It’s very unusual for us to have seeded all our winter crops before winter closes in, but this year we managed it with time to spare.

A lot of crops are having weed and disease control applied, which is also not common.

I cringe every time we receive an invoice for the chemical being applied. Here we are making an investment for which we won’t receive any returns for a year and have no idea how much per tonne we will get. What sort of business decision is this?

Time to stop moaning, I think, and get back to work. At least I’m still able to do that, but I often wonder if an over 60-year-old should have so many aches and pains.

A very Merry Christmas and a Good New Year to everyone.

ANOTHER GEM FROM PLAYERS

ANYONE who didn’t get a ticket for St Michael’s Players’ latest performance 'Don't Panic, Don't Panic' missed the opportunity to be richly entertained from the first to the last minute.

On the opening night (usually the graveyard of forgotten lines and off-stage prompts) the troupe of actors delivered their lines with professional timing, milking every laugh from the superbly crafted script.

With a mention of almost everyone and everything 'Melbourne' the capacity audience enjoyed every line, joke and excruciating pun.

To pick anyone out from the players would not be fair to the others; each one stayed faithful to the original Dad’s Army cast and in individual character throughout the play. Each and every personality came through with a delivery that wouldn’t

have looked out of place in a professional performance.

The writers must have worked for many hours with masses of re-writes to have come up with so many original lines and jokes.

Well done to everyone involved both on stage and off; and a word about the venue – it seems to improve each year and is a fitting location for the Players.

School places deadline looming

PARENTS need to apply now to Derbyshire County Council to get their child’s infant or primary school place for September 2017.

Applications for children born between September 1, 2012, and August 31, 2013, are now open; the deadline for applications is midnight on Sunday, January 15.

Applying online is the easiest method. Just visit the school admissions section of the county council's website at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/admissions

Applying online allows parents to make changes to their application at any point up to the closing date. Anyone who applies online also receives an email to confirm the application has

been received.

Parents who do not have access to the internet can call Derbyshire CC on 01629 533190 between 8am and 8pm on weekdays and 9.30am and 4pm on Saturdays, and a member of staff will complete the application on their behalf.

Although parents have a legal right to express preferences they have no automatic right to a place at any particular school.

Applications submitted to Derbyshire County Council after the deadline will not be considered until places have been allocated to those children whose parents did return their form on time.

Any parents who are a refused a place for their child have a right of appeal.

l The cast of ‘Don’t Panic, Don’t Panic’ backstage before the first performance.

Bar wins extra licensing hour

AMALFI White of Melbourne has won the right to stay open an extra hour until 1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays – despite strong local objection and a protest petition handed to licensing decision-makers.

The cocktail bar and restaurant applied to vary its licence to allow late night refreshment until 1am from Sunday to Thursday and 1.30am on Friday and Saturday – which was granted.

The previous licence allowed opening until 12.30am daily, with last orders at midnight.

The restaurant’s owners said they were asking to increase their hours to be in line with the Alma Inn over the road, which was last year also granted permission to open until 1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Under the new licence, Amalfi White is also allowed live music for an extra hour on Fridays and Saturdays, until midnight.

As with the Alma’s application, Amalfi White’s proposals had met with fierce objection from residents living nearby, many of whom wrote long letters to the council’s licensing department in protest and pointing out that because of the conservation area they are not allowed to doubleglaze their homes which might help alleviate the noise.

A local petition was also circulated complaining about the application, which attracted 15 signatures.

Many of the complaints centred around the noise of customers leaving Amalfi White late at night in taxis and cars, the venue having no car park of its own.

There were also complaints about music, with one resident saying she was sometimes able to sing along from inside her house.

Amalfi White has said it has a sound limiter in the upstairs ballroom to lessen the noise impact on local residents. The bar had also asked to extend its outside drinking hours until 11pm –again in line with the Alma – but this was denied.

The board of Amalfi White, responding to the complaints, said it had instructed waiting taxis to turn off their engines before receiving passengers, that it assigned staff to control noise, and that it was running a “legal, considerate operation”.

The bar also pointed out that it had been at the heart of Melbourne’s social scene since the 1890s, having previously been The Liberal Club, which was a live music hall, event venue and bar.

Neither the police nor environmental health objected to the increased licensing hours.

Melbourne’s Premier Two Rosette Restaurant

Christmas Fayre

1st - 23rd December

Book now for your Christmas celebration... fabulous 2/3 course menus

Christmas Day

Sunday 25th December

Join us for a superb 5 course Christmas Day lunch... £79.95 (children u12 £37.00)

New Year’s Eve

Saturday 31st December

Welcome in the new year with us at Harpur’s... guaranteed to be a great night!

01332 862134 www.harpursofmelbourne.co.uk follow us:

2 Derby Road, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8FE

Reaching its decision, the council’s licensing committee also said that the front of Amalfi White on Derby Road should be closed at 8pm with no drinks consumed in this area after that, and that the area should not be opened again until 8am the following day. – Lucy

Stephens

Book your festive celebration at The AA Pub of the Year England

12 Boot Hill, Repton DE65 6FT Tel:01283 346047 Web:thebootatrepton.co.uk

School success –at the double

TWO sports teams from Melbourne Junior School pulled off an “unheard of” feat after finishing both first and second in the county – beating off competition from more than 100 schools.

Both boys and girls teams qualified for the Derbyshire School Games Football Finals in mid-November.

While the boys side finished second, after winning through to the finals and losing the game in a penalty shoot-out, the girls were undefeated and ended up being crowned overall victors, hav-

ing not conceded a single goal throughout the championships.

Melbourne Junior School teacher and PE co-ordinator Jim Jenkinson (top row, left) said it was a first for the school’s football teams to be competing at county level.

Headteacher Jane Whirledge (top row, right) added: “We are thrilled at the children's efforts. Our motto is ‘Only my best is good enough for me’ and both teams have certainly done that. We couldn't be prouder of them.”

Two Rosettes for Culinary Excellence

British Empire Medal for volunteer Liz

AWARD WINNING CAKE DECORATOR

Specialising

Call:

WENDY’S

COURTYARD INTERIORS

Made

★ All types of Tracks, Poles & Accessories

Co-ordinate your home with our Soft Furnishing Service Home Measuring Service

Call in and see our huge range of blinds (including Venetian, Vertical, Roman and Pleated) together with our fantastic selection of wallpaper

A DEDICATED volunteer has been handed a British Empire Medal for 18 years of work improving the local environment.

Liz Froggatt, who was one of the founders of the Findern Footpaths Group in 1998, said she “couldn’t believe it” when she found out she was being given the honour.

She said: “What is so fabulous is that a very ordinary person like me, who works in a small community, has been recognised. That’s the overwhelming emotion.”

The work of the Findern Footpaths Group started after the village was dramatically cut in two with the arrival of the A50.

The busy road meant an end to much of what was once quiet farmland, and Liz explained that the footpaths group had started with the aim of making the best of things.

She said: “We have got lovely countryside in Findern, and the Trent and Mersey Canal is the jewel in our crown. It’s so lovely to work down there.

“In 1996 when the A50 went through, it did leave a scar. It was an area where lots of people liked to go and liked to walk. We started with four of us and we got together and thought we had to make this area nice for people to want to walk.”

Over the past 18 years Liz and the group have secured thousands of pounds in funding for environmental projects to improve the area’s paths, including replacing stiles with easier-to-navigate kissing gates or A-frames, and building bridges over wet areas.

As a result, 10 miles of footpaths are currently accessible to more members of the community.

The group, which now has 11 members, has also done a lot of tree and wild flower planting.

Liz said: “I’m a little nobody in a village, there’s hundreds of people like this. If a person like me in a village can be recognised, I think that’s great.

“I hope people will nominate other people that do work in small communities so that they will be recognised as well.”

The British Empire Medal was first started in 1917, but was later split into other awards. It was revived in 2012 to coincide with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Remembrance Tree

MELBOURNE Parish Council is holding its second series of Remembrance Tree events until December 24, in the chapel at the Packhorse Road cemetery between 9am and 4pm on Mondays to Thursdays and between 9am and 12pm on Fridays.

This year the chapel will also be open on Saturday and Sunday mornings between 9am and 11.30am.

People will be able to place tags or photographs to remember occasions in their own lives, or the lives of others past and present.

Those who have lost loved

ones can visit the chapel and place a memorial card on the Christmas tree with their own message of remembrance.

The messages can be open for others to see, or sealed for personal private thoughts. All memories will be retained for a year.

There is no fee, but if any donations are received, they will go towards the refurbishment of the chapel.

Last year’s donations funded the new roses in the Remembrance Gardens.

Sainsbury’s store on Derby Road donated this year’s tree.

Richmond Aston-on-Trent, which is opening soon, is a fabulous new purpose-built retirement community with the kind of luxury facilities most people can only dream of. The Village Suites come with an independent living package, including all meals, laundry and daily maid service, and have been designed to help your loved ones retain an independent lifestyle.

• 1 and 2 bedroom apartments

• Fun, caring and friendly community

• Restaurant, bar and café

• Wellness Spa and pool

• Hair and beauty salon

• Activities and events team

• Arts and crafts room

• Library

• Croquet lawn

• Landscaped gardens

• Care team on site 24 hours a day

For more information Call: 01332 895749 or Visit: www.richmond-villages.com/aston

l Vice Lord-Lieutenant Colonel John Wilson OBE, DL, presents the award to Liz Froggatt.

BULLENS COURTYARD, MILL LANE MEWS, ASHBY-DE-LA-ZOUCH 01530

Campaigners win battle to halt homes

NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE District Council has voted overwhelmingly to reject the controversial planning application for 27 homes in the village of Breedon on the Hill.

After months of campaigning and fund-raising residents of the village were able to persuade the planning committee that the scheme was not wanted by locals and was ill-judged.

Fourteen of the 16 members of the committee voted against the plan, going against the recommended advice of planning officials to permit the application subject to certain conditions.

Breedon Parish Council was also against the application and spoke in objection to the plan, endorsing comments previously submitted to the planning department.

Peter Spencer, local resident and spokesman for BRAND (Breedon Residents Against New Developments) said: “This is indeed a great day for the villagers of Breedon. It was clear from the start that the majority of folk who live in the village were against this insensitive development.

“There were 111 objections. a signed petition with 106 signatories and four in favour of the plan. There were deep concerns over the access and the impact it would have in a village which has limited resources and lack of infrastructure.”

Their objections were put forward by a specialist planning lawyer funded via Crowdjustice – a crowd-funding platform specifically for this type of case. A number of villagers contributed to fund the lawyer’s appointment.

The meeting chairman, Councillor David Stevenson, said: “This application was very controversial and it was clear to the committee that this greenfield site, outside limits to development, would not be suitable for 27 houses to be built on. In addition, the committee did not believe that the proposed access arrangements were safe and suitable, and rightly refused planning permission.”

Mr Spencer added: “There was no doubt that the substantial flood event of June 15 really focused everyone’s hearts and minds that further housing would increase that risk significantly. Five months on from that awful day, a number of people have still not moved back into their homes.

“At the end of the day this was a victory for common sense.”

125-year link with Thomas Cook

MELBOURNE is a place where traditions often flourish – and none more so than that founded by its famous son Thomas Cook.

This year marks 125 years since the father of tourism founded the memorial cottages and hall on the High Street. To this day its trustees still mark the end of their meetings with a strawberry tea, as did the first trustees when the cottages opened in 1891.

Indeed, links with the past are still so strong that Cook’s greatgreat grandson – also Thomas Cook – is still a trustee of the memorial cottages and attends the annual general meeting from his home in Norfolk.

Local people still go through the process of applying to live in the Grade 2 listed Thomas Cook cottages through the board of trustees.

Thomas Cook (pictured) bought the land on the High Street so he could found the cottages as a means of providing more comfortable accommodation for Melbourne’s elderly.

They started life at a ceremony which the man himself was too ill to attend – he died the following year in 1892 – and have been going strong ever since.

The hall, meanwhile, can be hired out for events such as children’s parties. The decorative frieze around the walls was taken from a small portion of the original design, which was found intact on the wall.

Cracking start to Christmas

OVER 60 people gathered in Melbourne Senior Citizens’ Centre on a bitterly cold December Monday for the annual Christmas lunch. The hall was warm and festive and all enjoyed the delicious food provided by the committee members.

Fourteen members of A Choir’d Taste, accompanied by Mair Aitkenhead on the piano, led the carol singing and the roof was raised ... a good start to the Christmas season.

l

first sighting of Santa this year was made at Swarkestone Nurseries when he attended a Christmas spectacular craft fair. There was just time to catch a picture of Santa and his helpers with just a few of the children and their parents before he had to fly.

THE

l SANTA dropped in with his helper to give out presents at the Weston Under 5s Pre-School Christmas Fayre. He also stopped to have his photograph taken with some of the children at the Grotto.

Airport opens its run-way

LOCAL runners joined more than 2,600 people in a fund-raising race around East Midlands Airport while it closed at weekends for refurbishment.

The airport hosted the 10k and 2k runs on November 27 to raise money for CLIC Sargent.

Runners taking part were given an unusual view around parts of the airport usually reserved for staff members.

That proved emotional for one Melbourne runner, Claire Peace, who signed up to the 10k race – her first – which she completed in 56 minutes, taking part with friend Fiona Malkin.

Claire’s father, Clive, who died six years ago, had worked at the airport as a marshal for 21 years.

She said: “He worked there for so long, and going somewhere where he worked and being in parts that are normally closed off to the public –that was quite emotional for me.”

Emma and Adrian Rowley, from Melbourne, signed up for the 2k run with children Elizabeth (eight), and Sophie (five).

Emma said: “We just took part because it’s such an unusual venue for a run that you wouldn’t normally get to see.”

The family 2k fun run was won by Corey Rose, 12, from Weston-on-Trent.

Jack Kelly, the airport’s head of external af-

fairs, said: “This has been an opportunity of a lifetime to join a unique running event and to raise money for a fantastic charity which supports so many local people.

“We have been delighted with the response from local people and with the work of so many of our own staff who have volunteered to be part of today.”

CAR RECOVERED

A MELBOURNE householder whose red Audi was stolen has had the vehicle recovered. The car was taken from a house in Earp Way on November 5 and subsequently found by police over the border in Nottinghamshire.

Burglars, who broke in between 6.30pm and 7.45pm, also stole sentimental jewellery including a Gucci watch, bracelets, necklaces and earrings.

No-one has yet been arrested for the burglary so anyone with any information is asked to call DC Emma Daniels on 101, quoting reference number 16000355553.

TOP: Runners on the ‘hangar straight’. ABOVE: Emma, Elizabeth, Sophie and Adrian Rowley warming up for the 2k.

On the right path –at last

by Lucy Stephens

A LIFE-SAVING footpath meaning walkers will no longer have to brave Swarkestone Causeway looks as though it may finally go ahead after eight years of delays.

The long-running campaign has been centred around getting a new path designated so that people wanting to travel on foot from Swarkestone to Stanton-by-Bridge do not have to walk along the highly dangerous causeway for 300 metres in order to reach a stile leading to the existing path, in the face of oncoming cars, lorries and buses.

Professor Paul Sturges, chair of Melbourne Footpaths Group, has branded the delays placed in the way of creating a path as “a disgrace”, with the current route “incredibly hazardous”.

An alternative route was first put forward in 2008 by the Melbourne Civic Society at a meeting in Matlock attended by highway engineers, the county road safety officer and English Heritage.

The eight intervening years have seen discussions between the owner of the land, The Church Commissioners, and the county council – but nothing actually done.

But, contacted by The Village Voice, landowners the Church Commissioners have said they have now “given consent” for the footpath to take place. The Village Voice understands that the work is scheduled to be finished by the spring of next year.

Professor Sturges said that, while the footpaths group welcomed the Church Commissioners’ consent for the path, they now needed to see something actually done.

He said: “This is, in our minds, so urgent that we won't relax until we see something signed off by both parties that gives us a clear way forward and gives us the alternative route very, very soon.

“The footpaths group, walkers from all over the country, and the local community deserve no less.”

Kitchen funding blow

WORK to install a kitchen at the new Melbourne Sports Park facilities on Cockshut Lane has suffered a setback after a funding bid was turned down.

The sporting partnership had applied to BIFFA for the money but were rejected.

At a meeting of Melbourne Parish Council, district councillor John Harrison said the news was “disappointing” but the partnership would try to find alternative funding elsewhere.

WANTED

The Melbourne Carol Singers

LARGE REWARD of A DIFFERENT AND ENJOYABLE CHRISTMAS EVE

We urgently need singers to join us and maintain a tradition which started in 1947. You will be made most welcome. Meet outside the Baptist Church, Chapel Street for prompt start at 6.45pm on 24th December.

Please telephone Alan Dunnicliff on 01332 862162 for details

Bet they had plenty to talk about

A REUNION of former pupils who attended Ticknall School was very well attended. This was especially so for those whose family ancestry at the school stretched back over many generations, namely the Draper, Hulse, Smith and Topliss families.

There were also multiple members present from the Hallifield, Adams and Mumford families.

In preparation for the reunion, display boards had been prepared and were in place showing articles relating to the history of the school, as well as some featured families and individual recollections.

In addition to having time to catch up with

friends – some not having seen each other for many years – those attending were treated to a digital slide show featuring images mainly taken by the late Gertie Hill, a well-loved former infant teacher of the school.

Images included classroom scenes, outdoor PE and school trips, as well as weddings of former pupils and local scenes of Ticknall during the 1960s.

One former pupil, Kerry Oliver, had flown down from Edinburgh for the occasion, and her sister, Tove, travelled from Wales. Dorothy Topliss travelled from Lincolnshire and attended with her sister, Brenda, from West Hallam.

Relief over new rail link plans

County councillor for Melbourne, Linda Chilton, has been pursuing getting the new footpath sorted for several years. She said the current path crossing the causeway was a “risk to life”, adding: “We have got a lot of walkers here and it’s a tourist area – we tell our walkers of this lovely ancient moment but it really is unfit for purpose at the moment.

“We are so lucky that we haven’t had anybody killed or seriously injured.”

THE RECENTLY announced revised route for the HS2 Hispeed railway has seen some local opponents relieved while others have vowed to fight on.

The £56billion rail line is no longer planned to pass under East Midlands Airport. Instead, it will broadly follow the curve of the M42 at Ashby through Leicestershire, and then pass to the east of the M1 and the airport runway, west of Kegworth,

before speeding along two huge viaducts across the Soar and Trent valleys and heading into Long Eaton towards the eventual destination in Leeds.

Jim Morrison, the spokesman for the Tonge and Breedon group which opposes HS2, said it was “a huge improvement for residents of both Tonge and Breedon”, who were very concerned that the earlier plan was for a huge embankment for the

railway adjacent to the villages.

“I am delighted, as it protects the villages, whilst simultaneously being very deeply sorry for those who will still be impacted by it,” he said.

He also said that they had managed to get their message across that, by avoiding the tunnelling under the airport, it would save the project £500million – a huge amount which could be better used for building new schools or hospitals.

l The perils of walking along the causeway.

Matt’s Masterchef role

LOCAL chef Matt Clayton might have had an early exit from TV’s Masterchef: The Professionals, but he is still relishing the experience.

After filming the programme in June, the episode aired in mid-November, and saw Matt competing for a place in the quarterfinals along with another five professional chefs.

Matt, aged 29, is head chef at Amalfi White and has 12 years’ experience, which includes cooking for the Queen when he was working in the Cathedral Quarter Hotel and she visited Derby.

He is a big fan of the programme and had applied a few times before without success. This year he got a call back, then an interview over Skype, a visit from the production team, before he found himself being lined up in the studio kitchens in East London ready for his first cooking challenge.

“I have never been so nervous,” said Matt. “I can’t describe it. For the first five minutes, I didn’t even see some of the ingredients on the bench. The first test is a skills challenge, where you are asked to prepare a dish from provided ingredients and I had to cook pork with a mustard sauce.

“The second challenge is the ‘signature dish’ which for me was a sous vide lamb

n ‘WHAT do pirates do all day’ was the title of a recent production at Melbourne Assembly Rooms that delivered magical interactive and musical theatre for 2-6 year olds over two performances.

It was great fun for all the family with the adults enjoying the entertainment as much as the children it was aimed at.

Pictured are the stars of the show Mandy Simpson and Geoffrey Jumper.

canon, a potato terrine with charred white asparagus, crispy spelt and a feta crumb.

“While you are cooking the judges come round and ask you questions. Then there is the wait for the judging.”

Matt was very pleased with the comments, particularly from judge Greg Wallace, who happily announced he could lick the plate clean. The other judges, while complimenting the dish, were slightly less convinced by some of the other components on the plate.

Waiting for the results was very nerve racking, Matt said. The producers were saying it was one of the longest delays they had had for the judges’ decision.

“But when the decision came, I was gutted I didn’t get through, to be honest. I knew I could do well, but it wasn’t to be. I was also so late back to the station I missed my train home, which just summed up the day!”

Matt is not rueful about the occasion, though. He wants to continue to build up the reputation of Amalfi White, and is proud that he has a recipe in the Great British Cook Book for his White Chocolate Cheesecake.

His longer term ambition is to follow in his father’s “cooksteps” and own his own place one day.

“I was introduced to great food by my father, who has two restaurants in Derbyshire,” he said.

–Frank Hughes

Christmas concerts

CHRISTMAS concert time in Melbourne continues with the Operatic Society on the 16th and Melbourne Town Band on the 17th.

Melbourne Male Voice Choir will hold its Christmas concert at the Catholic Church on the afternoon of December 17. Completing the pre-Christmas run will be the Travelling People’s Xmas Concert on December 23.

Fund-raising tea

AN AFTERNOON tea to raise funds for Elvaston Cricket Club was held at Weston on Trent Village Hall. Organised by Donna Clark, Linda Taylor and Julie Dunn, (pictured with guests), they were supported by Steve Clark acting as an excellent maître d' for the occasion.

The event was enjoyed by those taking part and their guests and raised £276, which will go towards the refurbishment and extension of the club pavilion currently at the planning stage.

A similar afternoon tea held earlier in the year on behalf of the junior section was to fund a defibrillator which is now in place at the club.

Police in school warning

PARENTS and schoolchildren were warned to be on their guard after a car was seen acting suspiciously outside John Port School in Etwall.

Police received three separate reports of the driver of a silver car acting in a way that aroused suspicion outside the school on three consecutive days in November.

Police said the car had been seen on Main Street, Etwall, at both the start and finish times of school and that officers would like to speak to the driver in connection with the incidents.

Inspector Kate Bateman said: “The fact that we have had three similar separate reports is concerning and so

Skips to the rescue

SKIP-HIRE business Tom Toon & Daughters has helped Breedon on the Hill reduce the risk of flooding by the loan of skips to assist in the removal of debris from the village brook.

In June, Breedon on the Hill was subjected to an unusual downpour, which culminated in severe flooding in several parts of the village. A total of 23 homes were flooded and today, nearly six months on, some residents have still not been able to move back into their homes.

The parish council quickly took action and formed a Floodwatch Group comprising several members of the community who were affected by the flood and led by parish councillor Dave Camp.

After investigation, it transpired that the brook, which snakes its way through the village, was ‘restricted’ in quite a few areas

through a build-up of vegetation, debris and rocks. By removing these restrictions, the water would be able to flow freely and hence reduce the risk of rising water levels quite substantially.

There is a common law requirement for residents whose property lies next to a stream to ensure that water can flow through their land without any obstruction, pollution or diversion. Since the flood, residents have woken up to their rights and responsibilities by checking their ‘bit of stream’ and clearing away any restrictions.

On November 8, a number of residents started the clean-up process in earnest by clearing a part of the stream adjacent to Worthington Lane.

A small team positioned themselves in the brook removing debris and large rocks, whilst another worked above them putting

it all into the skip. They worked solidly for five hours after which time the difference to the water flow was considerable and the skip was full!

Without the kind gesture of Coalvillebased Tom Toon’s, the work would have been virtually impossible and there is no doubt that this action will help reduce the risk of flooding in the future.

Phase 2 of the clearing process involved the brook behind The Lime Kilns and good progress was made. The team will continue with Phase 3 of the clearing process which will tackle the Pear Tree Mews section, which is planned for the weekend of January 14 /15 between 10am and 3pm and anyone who is willing to help will be most welcome. All you will need is a pair of wellies, and a bucket!

we are very keen to speak to the driver of this car in connection with the incidents. Nobody has come to any harm but we would ask that parents and pupils at the school take normal precautions and remain vigilant.”

iPad training

MELBOURNE Citizens’ Advice Bureau will be presenting digital and internet skills training at Melbourne Library on Friday, December 16, between 10.30am and noon. You can have a go at using an iPad, tablet or laptop and build up your knowledge of the internet. Booking is essential on 01283 210109.

Breakfast served 9.00 - 11.30am

Lunch from 11.30am

Afternoon teas served daily

Daily specials

Meeting room available for hire

Closed Mondays Only - Except Bank Holidays

–Frank Hughes l Toby Mitchell, a resident of Worthington Lane, Breedon, clearing the brook.

Your local butchers at Melbourne Hall Craft Centre. Local produce and excellent customer service. With a full range of Beef, Lamb, Pork and Chicken. Supplying easy pre pared meals and bundle packs to suit all your needs or cut to your exact requirements. Pre order and collect or just pop in. All our beef and lamb is grass fed and reared at Park Farm on the Melbourne Estate. We believe that the animals’ lifestyle has an important effect on the quality.

We are farmers first and foremost, passionate about producing livestock resulting in flavoursome meats for you. Pop in to our new butchery, meet our team and see for yourself.

in the Melbourne Hall Craft Centre

n This year’s Christmas message has been written by the Revd Marcus Hargis on behalf of Churches Together –Melbourne. Rev Hargis is the newest arrival to the team of clergy in Melbourne and is the minister at the United Reformed Church.

Melbourne finds room

A HEAVILY pregnant woman and her husband travel a long way over several days to reach their destination. No, I’m not talking about Mary and Joseph, the Holy Family; I’m talking of myself and my family.

This year, I and my pregnant wife have moved some distance to live and work in Melbourne (though we did use a removal van not a donkey!) So, this year I have been drawing parallels between our experience and that of Mary and Joseph.

I feel that there are some similarities. Moving is a time of emotional upheaval and uncertainties. Aside from the logistics of packing, travelling, and then unpacking, there is the unease that comes from not knowing where things are, and where to get what needs to be got.

There are differences as well. We have been warmly welcomed here and there has

been plenty of room for us. We’ve also had plenty of help, unlike the Holy Family who had to travel light and with no support. Also, people were expecting my wife and I – looking forward to our arrival even. In contrast, Joseph and his young wife were definitely not welcome. No room could be found for them.

However, we’ve not received any visits from shepherds or kings (we’re not that important), though it’s been good to get to know church members, colleagues, local businesspeople, market gardeners, and a wide crosssection of people from Melbourne. There’s another difference as well. Perhaps even an advantage that Mary and Joseph had over my family – they didn’t have to travel with a toddler in tow. Moving house, already one of the hardest and most stressful things we can do, is just that bit harder with

Time to remember the

ARMISTICE Day was observed Melbourne on the 11th hour of 11th day of the 11th month at the morial in Church Square.

The short service was led by Parish Church Curate, the Revd Angela Plummer, with members of Melbourne British gion and approximately 100 people tendance. A two-minute silence observed and the Exhortation and Kohima Epitaph were delivered by Richard Heath, RBL Branch President.

The Last Post and Reveille were played by Brendan O’Neill and wreaths were

Two days later, Remembrance Sunday was observed in the same setting. glorious sunny morning many hundreds people filled Church Square waiting the parade to arrive from the RBL quarters.

Led by the Drum Corp and Melbourne Town Band, the parade, numbering around 300 people representing 17 organisations, arrived to swell the numbers.

ABOVE: Young Nieve Brown stops to look at some of the wreaths.

LEFT: Gordon Foddy conducts the band at the traditional concert.

FAR RIGHT: The parade makes its way through Melbourne.

room for husband and pregnant wife

a lively little son who delights in getting under people’s feet.

However, the largest difference between ourselves and the Holy Family is that we are getting well settled here. It feels like we are starting to find our way around. In contrast, the new-born Jesus along with his parents had no chance to put down roots anywhere and they were on the move again as soon as he was born.

Fleeing to Egypt to escape the murderous persecution of Herod, they did not settle there either, eventually finding a place to live in unfashionable Nazareth. The sense of movement in Christ’s birth story continued throughout his life: Jesus went from one village to another, never staying long in one location. As he once said: “Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.”

thefallen

observed in of the the meParish Plummer, British Lein atwas Kohima Heath, played were laid. Sunday

On a hundreds of waiting for headMelbourne numbering organnumbers.

In this era, where there are more people on the move, displaced and seeking safety, than at any time since the Second World War, we need to acknowledge that Jesus himself was a refugee right from his birth. He has a lot in common with those who have moved, often not by choice and with little to take with them. Jesus was someone who never settled down.

That brings advantages as well as disadvantages. On the one hand, moving brings fresh perspectives. I myself have discovered the joys of twitchels, very fresh vegetables, Melbourne Festival and the Remembrance Sunday parade; I’ve also been able to affirm the good that I see in my church here, because I have a wide range of experiences to draw on.

The flipside of travelling, however, is a sense of rootlessness; that feeling that you

Clergy and lay members representing the churches in the town formed a small group to lead and deliver the service and prayers. The formalities of the day were observed with many wreaths laid at the memorial. Children from Melbourne schools also laid remembrance crosses in a small garden area adjacent to the memorial.

Following the service the parade reformed and marched back to the RBL headquarters where the town band performed the traditional concert.

In the same week, the Royal British Legion held a special service in the Parish Church to commemorate the ending of the Battle of the Somme, on Friday November 18.

Canon David Edwards officiated, welcoming those attending and leading the worship. The moving service included music from the Town Band, hymns and readings of six short biographies of Melbourne men who had fallen.

don’t quite belong anywhere. Someone ‘born and bred’ might take for granted that deep sense of connection which, for some, is illusive.

I and my family are looking forward to sharing life with the folk at the United Reformed Church, learning from them as well as contributing all that I have gathered thus far on the journey of life.

What’s more, we are looking forward to settling here in Melbourne as we travel together on the Way of Jesus Christ, who gives us strong security even in shifting and uncertain times.

It’s always worth remembering that, as he went on the epic journey of his life, Jesus knew the unshakable presence of his Father, God Almighty.

Even in the midst of continual change, that was enough to settle him.

are friendly establishment located on the outskirts of rural Melbourne o ering comfortable, secure accommodation, daily exercise sessions, playtime and love from our knowledgeable and experienced sta . We welcome dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes and invite owners to visit by appointment to see our facilities.

please contact us...

Brownies, Guides and Scouts from Melbourne lower their flags in respect.

PRIZE CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD

THE annual Village Voice Christmas Crossword is normally welcomed by readers as a challenge to be completed during the extended holiday break, combined with an opportunity to win a cheque for £25.

The 2016 Christmas Crossword has been compiled with most clues relating either to the Melbourne region or to Christmas.

Completed crosswords should be submitted to Mr P Roberts, 11 Old Gate Avenue, Weston on Trent, DE72 2BZ, no later than noon on Friday, December 30. The winner will be announced in the January issue.

ACROSS

4 The bus route from Weston to Derby is prime number seventy -----. (5)

7 Pantomime girl has several small companions, anagram (whose twin). (4 ,5)

8 Commonly “the cat’s mother”: shriek without comedian Mayall. (3)

10 Regret the middle of gruel. (3)

11 Melbourne is close to 53 degrees north, such measurements are ---------, anag (tail duets). (9)

13 Young angel. (6)

17 Milestones, sees off, is a village by Melbourne. (6)

21 Xmas bird, no rib repaired. (5)

22 Antony shaken: none. (3,3)

25 Not right angles: oldish cherubs. (6)

27 As sin evolves, then ruby evolves: family own this shop. (9)

31 Sound of a dove starts the Coopers Arms. (3)

32 Mother of Jesus drops a letter: a month. (3)

33 Adorns the house for Xmas: winter month, makes a speech. (9)

34 Swarkestone minus Weston: garden tools. (5)

DOWN

1 Drover gets rid of Rolls Royce: a river. (4)

2 How yule loses vowels: an English-Welsh word for enjoyment. (4)

3 Endless kite and heartless toy for a fund of money. (5)

4 Exam: cricket match. (4)

5 Water grass seen in Breedon. (4)

6 Dwarf Sleepy holds fish in reverse. (4)

7 The -------‘s Head was a pub near Calke park:

enemy of Crusaders, anagram. (case ran). (7)

9 The body of a ship. A port N E of Melbourne. (4)

12 Waving good-bye, no body: self image. (3)

14 Effete with duplicates reduced is a newt. (3)

15 Sounds like Eric Morecambe’s partner: a vase for ashes. (3)

16 Lad is an unruly yob. (3)

17 Actress --- Farrow. Inaccurate aim. (3)

18 “No room at the ---“ for Jesus’ family. (3)

19 One of 10 digits seen in mistletoes. (3)

20 Hows sun changed for people who don’t turn up. (2,5)

23 Circular letter and Virginia: eggs. (3)

24 Naan sliced becomes Indian money. (4)

26 Church Wilne variably loses we rich letters: meal. (5)

27 Half of Rasputin moves to be a Melbourne shop. (4)

28 Filmwork’s even letters means “me healthy”. (1’1,2)

29 Wednesdays but weaned away. Belonging to Sydney. (4)

30 Hardy, beheaded and shaken is a few feet. (4)

31 Angle, not obtuse, drops its first to become quaint or twee. (4)

TEAMING UP FOR THE 2017 CHARITY KNOCK-OUT QUIZ

THE call has gone out for entries to the 2017 Melbourne Charity Knock-Out Quiz. Quiz organisers are looking to recruit teams of four to enter with a minimum of two team members required to live in Melbourne or surrounding district; alternatively, two team members

should work for any company or be members of any organisation based in the area.

The quiz is held on Friday nights and will run for approximately eight weeks. The first night will be January 20 starting at 7.30pm at Melbourne Royal British Legion Club.

Entry forms must be submitted by January 4 to Jo Carlier, 21 Selina Street, Melbourne (tel 864446) or by email to richard.carlier123@btinternet.com or twmwilliams@btinternet.com

The chosen charity for the 2017 quiz is Melbourne Community Care.

Having a ball to help charity

A MELBOURNE family held a glittering ‘Black & White’ ball which raised more than £13,000 to help fund a research charity into children’s cancer treatment.

Ricky Hull and Kimberley Howard-Hull put on the uber-stylish Black & White Ball in Amalfi White with the aim of raising £10,000 for Children with Cancer UK, a charity which is researching how children’s cancer treatment could be made shorter with fewer side-effects.

Their six-year-old son, Oscar, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last year, and is currently part of a trial called UKALL being conducted by the charity.

Since being treated for the disease he has had to have six months off school to have chemotherapy, and will be continuing to undergo treatment until the end of 2018.

Kim said: “The reason we chose Children with Cancer UK was that they’re currently funding 11 research projects into childhood leukaemia, one of which is a trial that Oscar’s part of.

“The aim of that trial is to significantly reduce side effects of chemotherapy for children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

“We would like to see huge developments and a shorter treatment time, which is what they’re working towards, and why it was so important for us to support this charity. In the beginning, when you get three years of treatment ahead of you, that’s an overwhelming amount of time in a child’s life; shorter, gentler treatments is the aim.

“We feel so proud of him; he is a tough little boy. He has shown amazing strength and bravery.”

Return of the Mummers

THE Melbourne Mummers will be back with their own traditional mumming play this December.

Look out for them as the troupe makes its way around the pubs of Melbourne and Ticknall on December 23.

If you haven't seen the Mummers before or a mumming play, they are short folk dramas, traditionally performed around Christmastime, with some bizarre characters in tow. They'll be raising money for charities for the homeless in Derbyshire.

A hundred guests turned out to Amalfi White’s ballroom to dance the night away and help the family smash their target by more than £3,000, taking the total raised to £13,060.

Among the fund-raising efforts was that of Jim Clint, of Melbourne, who volunteered to have his flowing locks shorn on the night, which boosted the total by £2,000.

A raffle was held with prizes donated by many local businesses.

Kim said the family were “delighted” by the night’s success, with donations still coming in after it had ended.

Ricky said: “The charity invested around £750,000 to this UKALL trial. The fund-raising page is still open for donations: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/RickyHull1.”

The Howard-Hull family would like to thank the following people for donating raffle prizes and supporting them:

Tony and Georgina Howard; Activate Sport; Matt and Nicola Rantell; Andy Gates and Dave Middleton of Breedon Health Club; Katie Embleton and Gemma Forster; Nelly and Clive Mardon; Richard and Cathy James; Blatch’s TV & Electrical; Ian and Laura Hunter; Courtyard Beauty; Root; Kirsty Allen; Pinks Boutique; Emma’s Retreat; Audi Derby; Ben Miller, Amalfi White and Forteys. – Lucy Stephens

Jilly Clarks Shoes Ltd.

LADIES – GENTS - LOADS OF CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

Wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year, 2017. Thank you for your custom throughout the year.

Shoes, Handbags, Scarfs, Purses, Boots, Slippers, Hats, Gloves etc.

29 Derby Road, Melbourne, Derbyshire DE73 8FE Tel: 01332 862343

Male Voice Choir’s annual carol concert

MELBOURNE Male Voice Choir will be holding its annual carol concert on Saturday, December 17, in the Catholic Church, Church Street, Melbourne at 2.30pm.

They will be joined by the residents of Pool Cottage for a traditional carol singalong.

Admittance is £5 payable on the door and includes festive refreshments.

The choir’s concert in St. Edward’s Church in Castle Donington with the Chilwell Military Wives Choir raised £400 which will be donated to Help for Heroes.

In the New Year, the choir will start rehearsing its new concert programme. Then would be a good time for new members to join them. You are assured of a warm welcome. Friday is practice night in the Wesleyan Hall, commencing at 7.30pm.

Daniel runs our Family Butchery, where you can buy Award Winning* hand-made sausages, dry-cured bacon, and Pork, Beef and Lamb.

We are now also taking orders of Venison and Turkey for Christmas.

*(National Trust Fine farm Produce Award)

Standleysbarnfarm Daniel@standleysbarn.com

CHEERS ... Rick Hull and Kim Howard-Hull with Tony and Georgina Howard.

CLOSE SHAVE ... Jim Clint fails to keep his hair on as Samantha Wilmore gets a head start.

At our Organic Farm, all of our happy livestock are born and reared in organic, herbrich meadows.

CROWDS gathered in Melbourne’s streets to celebrate the start of Christmas at the traditional festive shopping night on December 2.

The big man in the red suit was there in person to perform the lights switch-on at 6pm, and stayed on to chat with the many people who turned out to enjoy the evening.

Stall holders from local groups and businesses lined the streets with their wares, while shops stayed open to allow people to do a spot of festive shopping.

One stall-holder grateful for the opportunity of the Christmas shopping night was Melbourne university student Lottie Devey-Smith, who made over £300 selling her home-made candles to help fund a charity trip to Sri Lanka.

She said: “I wouldn’t have been able to do this if it wasn’t for the Christmas shopping night.”

For Mark Dunn, owner of Melbourne Deli on Derby Road with his wife Sandra, this was his first experience of the Christmas shopping night, having taken over the premises this summer.

He said: “From my point of view, obviously it was our first late night Christmas opening and it exceeded our expectations. It was a beautiful atmosphere, everybody seemed to be enjoying themselves and that made it a thoroughly enjoyable evening.”

Seasons

l Charlotte and Evie Armstrong with Olivia Bradford.

l Kirsty Fisher and Elaine Penhaul from Lemon & Lime Interiors with Edward Pett, from Lowood Furnishings.

l On the Whistlewood stall are (l-r) Helen Saunders, Katherine Parrish and Andrene Alejandro.

l Will Kendrick and Annie Smithard.

Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to all our customers and suppliers

The Chip & Pin Micropub, 8-10 High Street, Melbourne

Season’s Greetings Nearly

We wish all our clients a very merry Christmas and a happy new year...

Lynn’s Salon

37a Market Place, Melbourne Phone 863607

We also knit toys and other items as 'Pins and Purls' nd us on FaceBook or call in and see us.

Celebrating with a living advent calendar

ASTON-on-Trent residents are celebrating the coming of Christmas in a uniquely visual way this year, by hosting their first “living” advent calendar.

Different venues in the village are joining in by creating a festive display in their windows which will be lit up on successive days in December, just like an advent calendar.

The windows are being lit from 4.30pm to 9pm and a trail map has been produced so that people can wander the streets and admire them.

The idea is that one more window will be lit up each day until the day before Christmas when 24 will be displayed, with the last tableau being shown at All Saints’ Church.

The idea has come from resident Monique Lees, who said she wanted to create a festive celebration for everyone to enjoy.

Lynn is an Avon Rep.

Thank you to our customers for your support during the past year.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Margaret & Michael - Melbourne News

She said: “It’s a village event. Christmas is for everybody – I want it to be a special time. The magic of this really is seeing something being revealed, perhaps it will be a starry scene, perhaps it will be a nativity – I’m looking forward to seeing what people will do. I just wanted people to be creative and have some fun, enjoy Christmas time and be inclusive for everybody.”

Melbourne Carpets and Interiors would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year

Christmas tea at the Hall

LORD and Lady Ralph Kerr invited friends of Melbourne Community Care to a Christmas Afternoon Tea at Melbourne Hall.

The guests enjoyed a delicious tea after which Lord Ralph played the piano for some impromptu carol singing.

A group of volunteer drivers from Community Care gave their time to take people to the Hall.

Heather would like

wish

her

l A Christmas tree festival at St Mary’s Church, Weston on Trent, was held on Saturday and Sunday December 3 and 4. There will also be candlelit carols on Sunday, December 18, at 5pm.

Would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Williams Yard, Derby Road, Melbourne Tel: 01332 863810

John Harrison & Jim Hewlett

‘Listening

l Santa meets some of his fans at the Melbourne Christmas lights switch-on.

l Monique Lees (standing, second from left) in front of her advent window, with fellow “Aston Adventists”.

n THE wedding of Gavin Salisbury, eldest son of David and Lydia Salisbury, of Melbourne, and Carly Taylor, youngest daughter of Tim and Angela Taylor, of Ticknall, took place at Mythe Barn, Sheepy Magna.

The bride was attended by her sister, Nicole Mayo, niece Lily Ann Mayo, Sophie Erskine and Hannah Webberley.

Greg Salisbury, the groom’s brother, was the best man and the ushers were Andrew Smethurst, Ryan McLaughlin, Lee Scott and Gary Croake.

The couple honeymooned in Australia.

MELBOURNE Parish Council has a new member, in the form of Ian Cass. Ian was co-opted on to the authority at its latest meeting on December 6.

Ian told the meeting he had lived in Melbourne since 2004 and was the instigator of the recent Melbourne Classic Car Show.

Village Voice Postbag

Do you have an issue you wish to write to us about?

See page 22 for ways to contact us.

Finding a use for unwanted BT phone boxes

WITH reference to the photo and article in the November issue of Village Voice, all is not lost when BT decide to call time on their payphone kiosks.

The payphone was removed from the kiosk at Stanton by Bridge over 12 months ago. After little discussion the kiosk was adopted by Community Heartbeat Trust and the village then raised almost £3,000 to

cover the cost of a Community Public Access Defibrillator, together with ongoing costs for the next few years.

With the prominent position of the kiosk, on the main A514, by the bus stop, and the loss of the payphone, we also decided to install an emergency 999 telephone for use by walkers, cyclists, motorists and other visitors to

our village should the need arise.

We do hope that the defibrillator will be used even less often that the telephone previously residing in the kiosk, but it will be there if and when required.

And the landmark telephone kiosk has been retained as a reminder of the past. Bob Wheat.

Show was brilliant, entertaining and funny

I’VE lost count of how many times I have attended and written about the local gem we have within our community, known as St Michael’s Players’.

On November 3, 4 and 5 we were treated to another performance with the ‘Dad’s Army’ rendition of ‘Don’t Panic, Don’t Panic’ and we weren’t disappointed.

We went to the show on the Friday and I struggle to use superlatives to describe this show, as the list would be endless, so I’ll keep it to just three words, brilliant, entertaining and funny.

The characters were so lifelike to the original TV version of Dad’s Army, it was very hard to tell the difference. The mannerisms or ’mainwarings’ of the characters were uncanny. I won’t identify any one character from such a talented platoon, as we would all have our favourites.

There were the usual eagerly expected references to local people, shops, buildings and villages that we have come to love and expect.

It was very useful to have a programme listing the different scenes and their numbers to get the audience in the right ‘location mood’ but on November 4, we did seem to have an extra-unlisted scene during the interval involving total audience participation.

I was concerned about the ‘draw maker’, Corporal Jones, AKA Tom Mills, who when he shouted that the raffle ticket was ‘yellow’, had the whole audience in hysterics as they shouted back that it was in fact ‘orange’. This was sheer hilarious ‘ad lib’ comedy at its best. Corporal Jones was so realistic and naturally funny I was at a loss to know if his raffle draw antics and dithering were acting or the real Tom himself.

‘Don’t Panic’ was highly entertaining from start to finish and it was pleasing to see younger people becoming involved, too. For example, who could forget the acting skills of Privates Godfrey and Pike.

Thank you to staff at Melbourne Assembly Rooms and to all Melbourne Players in-

volved in making this a truly memorable Show; can’t wait for the next. Colin Barker, Station Road, Melbourne.

Green-fingers?

ARE you interested in gardening? Would you like to get together with like-minded people and exchange ideas or plants or seeds, listen to invited speakers and possibly go on visits to local gardens, nurseries or centres?

If you are interested in getting involved in a new club in Melbourne, open to anyone with an enthusiasm for gardening of any kind, please post your name and contact details through the post box at the Senior Citizens’ Centre in Melbourne and we'll get back to you.

Melbourne Garden Club

Melbourne Senior Citizens’ Centre, Church Street, Melbourne DE73 8EJ

Personal touch earns boutique a top award

LOCAL lingerie and swimwear boutique Bare Necessities has every reason to celebrate 20 years’ trading in Melbourne.

Fighting off fierce competition from another 19 finalists, the retailer has just won the Stars Underlines Best Shop Award for 2016 in the Personal Touch category.

Owner Brenda Cresswell said: “It was a total and utter shock! It’s the award everyone in the business wants and we are all absolutely thrilled.”

She described the awards as the industry’s Oscars and over 500 retailers across the country are nominated. The Personal Touch category demands ‘a personal and professional service, with strong evidence of customer loyalty and trust, good experience of owners and staff and a good produce offer’.

She said it is about dedication to customers – “knowing their individual needs and preferences, being honest both on fit and colour choice, providing good quality products. Sometimes customers keep on buying the same mistakes, and getting it right makes you feel better and more confident”.

Brenda, who has a background in fashion design and worked previously in the licensed trade, was looking for a business premises in Melbourne and originally set up in a small shop in Potters Yard.

Three years later she realised she

needed bigger premises so moved to the current shop in the Market Place.

“I really liked the feel of Melbourne,” she said, “and did not want to be in a big city location.”

Over the last two decades the customer base has built up and remained very loyal, with regular customers coming from further afield places, such as Cambridge and Liverpool, as well as the locals.

The internet side of the business has also grown dramatically over the past few years, and now accounts for over 50% of sales.

“But that also enables us to hold a greater level of stock in the store than we would otherwise, and therefore gives shop customers even more choice.”

She said that the award ceremony was a glitzy event, held in the Globe Theatre in London with celebrity Vanessa Feltz compering.

“You do not know if you have won in advance, so when it’s announced it is a bit of a shock,” said Brenda.

“It is a great honour as well as a great way to celebrate 20 years in the business, and I am particularly pleased for all the staff who play such a huge part and support each other.

“They have a very good understanding of our customers and work together to ensure we provide the best possible service.”

–Frank Hughes

‘Responsible’ house builders are praised

HOUSE builders at Richmond Villages care home in Aston-on-Trent have been praised as “very responsible” developers after winning the right to replace 36 family homes with extra care apartments for the elderly.

Councillors at the latest meeting of South Derbyshire District Council’s Planning Committee lost little time in allowing Richmond Villages to change its plans because of the high demand for its elderly facilities.

That will mean the development will

Farewell to David

THE United Benefice of Melbourne, Ticknall, Smisby and Stanton-by-Bridge met for the final service led by Revd Canon David Thomas at Melbourne Parish Church.

After many years as an associate priest in the benefice, it was a joyful celebration for All Saints Festival with David asking the choir to sing a "glorious Gloria" which they certainly did.

A farewell party at the Senior Citizens' Centre followed the service. David spoke of how he would miss presiding at services in the benefice as this has been an important part of his life and ministry for many years; he greatly values the many friends he has made.

He will certainly be missed by the many people whose lives he has touched.

David was presented with cards and gifts plus thanks and best wishes for all he has given to the benefice.

include 38 residential homes rather than the 74 originally planned.

The meeting was told that, while this would entail losing some of the district’s housing quota, the shortfall had been made up elsewhere.

Councillors praised Richmond Villages for the work it had done in Astonon-Trent so far.

Councillor Peter Watson, of Aston ward, said: “Richmond Homes have so far proved themselves to be a very responsible developer.”

Group work

MELBOURNE Historical Research Group will have displays of some of their work at 7 Market Place, Melbourne (next door to Blatch's), during the month of December on Fridays and Saturdays, 10am-1pm: 9th, 10th, 16th and 17th.

Everyone is welcome, and admission is free.

l WINNING COMBINATION ... (l-r) Sue Beard, Jane Hives, Brenda Creswell, Julie Wendt and Linda Chawner.

A

run business who bring you the finest bespoke joinery. We supply and fit kitchens, staircases, windows, doors, conservatories etc and specialise in listed building work. For more information on what we do, please visit our website www.townleyjoinery.co.uk

SITUATIONS VACANT

PEACH HOUSE RESTAURANT within Staunton Harold Nurseries require a WEEKEND ASSISTANT

Main duties to be food preparation, serving customers, clearing tables etc. Ideal for students, minimum age 16. Wage according to age. Saturdays and Sundays 10.30 to 4pm.

Please phone Dawn Brierley on 01332 865155 or email: mark@maetradingltd.co.uk

VOLUNTEERS’ ROYAL APPOINTMENT

Two experienced Horticultural/Agricultural engineers required to work at our Barrow on Trent depot.

Acorn Tractors are a small, friendly but progressive Turf-Care machinery dealership having Iseki, BLEC & Snowex as their main franchises.

In addition, Acorn Tractors sell quality used tractors & machinery across the UK. The successful applicants must be prepared to work as part of a small team and demonstrate the ability to diagnose & rectify problems on all types of tractors and professional mowing equipment. We would consider taking on one workshop trainee who is committed to obtaining a college quali cation in either Horticultural or Agricultural engineering. Very competitive salary & happy working environment.

Please email your CV to julian@acorntractors.co.uk or call 01283 704664

TWO

BEDROOM FLAT

available to rent from February 2017

Set in the heart of the countryside only a short walk to Melbourne and Wilson facilitating excellent pubs, restaurants, shops and all convenience shopping. Situated at Park Farm, home to Tori and Ben’s Farm. Only 4 miles (8 minutes) from M1 and M42 with excellent commuting to Birmingham and the M1 corridor. Part furnished. Full modern kitchen. New carpets and curtains. Off street secure parking.

Property briefly comprises of...

2 large bedrooms, Sitting room, Modern kitchen, Shower bathroom

For further details contact Tori 07711 567058 or email tori@toriandbensfarm.co.uk

Made Your Will Yet?

Your Will in the privacy and comfort of your own home £49.95* + VAT (£59.94)

Phone today for FREE INFO PACK 0115 871 2755 24 hours / 7 days a week

GRASSROOTS volunteers from Staunton Harold Sailing Club have received royal recognition for their work keeping the club buoyant.

Nigel and Diane Pepperdine were handed an Outstanding Contribution Award by HRH The Princess Royal at the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) awards ceremony.

The Pepperdines were two of 44 people from across the country honoured for their commitment to boating at a lunch held at One Great George Street, Westminster.

Members of the Melbournebased sailing club since 2005,

the pair’s voluntary work involves managing the 250 memberships, organising catering

Melbourne Dental Practice

To try and reduce the amount of clinical time lost due to missed appointments and late cancellations, the practice is now o ering a text messaging service. Any patients who wish to receive these will need to complete a text messaging consent form, available at reception. Please note, we cannot o er this service unless a consent form has been completed.

for events and functions, and looking after the club’s fleet of hire dinghies.

n KING’S Newton Bowls Club held the 2016 awards night at the club house, and pictured are this year’s winners: Pat Philipson - The Packhorse Trophy; Janet Jardine - Floodlit Doubles; Dave Lyons - Floodlit Doubles; Cynthia Bailey - Handicap Doubles and Ladies Singles; Henry HastingsThe Quentin Blood Trophy; Rob Philipson - Quentin Blood Trophy; Joan FordHandicap Doubles; Graham Leech - Galley Jackson Cup; Barry Woodman - Floodlit Singles and Open Doubles; Roger Timmins - Handicap Singles, Men's Singles and Club Champion.

Vintage stuff in rugby club wins

MELBOURNE RFC 1st XV welcomed Spalding to Cockshut Lane and turned in a vintage performance, winning 60-10.

An early penalty started the scoring before Will Judge got the first try.

Joe Stewart scored out wide, Jack Pearce picked a sharp line to power over from short range, and half-time was 25-3. Spalding started the second half strong and scored and converted to narrow the gap, but that was the catalyst for the floodgates to open.

Pearce completed his hat-trick with more powerful running, Judge led the pack and got his second while Page got two deserved late tries, supporting flowing moves. Holden contributed 20 points. MOTM Mark Coyne.

Ashbourne were next to come to Cockshut Lane for a league game. Melbourne started strongly with Will Judge scoring after a couple of minutes. Page added a score with a Jack Pearce score late on securing a 22-14 victory in a scrappy game with Holden contributing seven points.

The result meant that Melbourne regained the Geoff Crocker Trophy.

A top of the table clash with Coalville saw Melbourne come out on top with a 22-7 win. Tries came from Dan Walker, Olly Page and Ash Stringer with seven points from Euan Holden, who also picked up a yellow card for being punched. MOTM Alex Nightingale.

The final game of the month saw an away coach trip to Kesteven, who were unbeaten at home. But Melbourne put them to the sword in a strong second half, controlled by Page and

Holden. Seven tries were scored – Howard (two), Stark, Foster, Coyne, Hall and Lowery. MOTM was Holden.

The Seconds went to Ilkeston Seconds with a mixed side and performed creditably against a team a league above them. In a physical game, the youngsters of Melbourne were not intimidated and narrowly lost 5-15. Debutant Ryan Martin scored a fine solo try.

The Development XV lost narrowly to Ashby 2s 22-19 – tries for Bigland, Cresswell and Nassau. They also went to play a Long Eaton 2s, again performing creditably but losing 12-5. Ed Whitten scored the try.

The Stags suffered late cry-offs and unavailabilities but still sent a Barbarians style side to Mansfield 3s, losing 42-32. Rolls-Royce then came to Cockshut Lane and, in a tight entertaining game, Melbourne were just a bit too strong winning 17-0. Tries came from Newcombe, Cooper and Gregory with Stowell getting a yellow card. South Notts Barbarians were next to come to Cockshut Lane and the Stags won 31-12, with tries for Richardson (two), Lowson, Bigland and Moran.

The Academy sent 13 players to West Bridgford, losing 10-36. Then they played Long Eaton, winning well in a one-sided game.

The Vets had their first run out in a few years against Derby with the match ending in an entertaining 24-24 draw. Debutant Lee Robinson had a hand in all four tries, scoring one and setting up Ashton, Middleton and Ireland. Sylvester grabbed two conversions.

Spreading the word

SUNDAY, November 13, was a different training day at Melbourne RFC with the pitch allocation including West Bridgford RFC alongside the normal Melbourne teams.

"To have another club training at your club is not a normal occurrence but Melbourne Minxes don't do normal,” said head of women and girls rugby Nick Woodland.

Melbourne Minxes were the first known club in England to offer an all-girls option to the normal mixed rugby in an attempt to get more girls playing.

Nick has now taken his passion to Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire (NLD) where he is head of the NLD U13 player development programme.

Nick and the Minxes offered to run a morning coaching session with the option of matches in the afternoon with themselves and Mansfield, a club that Nick had been in contact with from the creation of their girls section.

The day went amazingly well for West Bridgford, who showed how well they are already doing and that confidence and match experience is all that is lacking.

Nick said: "I couldn't believe the progress the girls made over their three matches. Their confidence grew as well as their team spirit. But best of all, they loved it and are all looking forward to their first home fixture in a few weeks’ time when they will be hosting Melbourne and Mansfield in a return fixture.”

l Team talk time for girls from Melbourne Minxes and visitors West Bridgford at their recent coaching day.

Hockey girls with socks appeal

A YOUNG hockey player from Melbourne led a team that beat others from across the country to make the finals of a national competition.

Philippa Jowett, who attends Foremarke Hall School, captained a team which went all the way to the wire at the IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) national hockey finals.

Philippa’s under-12s side travelled to Bristol where they beat Cranleigh School in the semi-finals but lost 2-1 to Hurstpierpoint College to emerge competition runners-up.

Sam Mansfield, director of sport at Foremarke Hall, said: “The final was so close it could really have gone either way. We lost 2-1 to Hurstpierpoint, having had several chances to take the game. Runner-up is still a great achievement.”

Foremarke had two hockey squads in the finals, the under-12s and under-13s, and wore specially made championship socks for the occasion.

Hockey player Georgie Twigg, who won a gold medal at the Rio Olympics, is a former pupil of Foremarke Hall.

The Foremarke girls are pictured showing off their special edition socks.

Dynamo team still in command at the top

MELBOURNE Dynamo Football Club continued its good form in the 2016/17 season with the first team ending the month still on top of division one.

The reserves finished November in a healthy third place in division two.

The club saw games postponed in November with both sides playing only two fixtures each.

The first team began the month away to Newhall United from the division above in the Derbyshire Cup and destroyed their hosts in winning 7-3. Double strikes from

Dave Worger and Jack Goodband plus goals by Dave Brough, Lee Sanders and Dom Hurst saw Dynamo through to the quarterfinals.

Gav Salisbury's men maintained top spot in the league without playing a league game in November as their only other match saw them bow out of the Challenge Cup with a 4-2 home defeat to Wirksworth Town, another team from a higher division.

A goal from Tim Adcock and another from leading scorer Dave Brough achieved the consolation strikes.

NEW RUGBY KIT SPONSORS

MELBOURNE Rugby Football Club has new sponsors for the club. Graham and Carrie Wakerley of ''missingthelinq’ have sponsored Melbourne Academy in a two-year deal providing kit.

Pictured are Graham and Carrie with twin sons Jake and Sam. Also pictured are MRFC chairman Peter Ilott and Academy head coach Tim Wilbraham.

Graham is holding one of the training tops. Missingthelinq will also provide subs suits, shorts and socks.

MELBOURNE Dynamo Reserves exited the Derbyshire Cup when going down to Lea Holloway 3-1. The consolation came from Ben Dale.

The Reserves’ only league game saw them climbing to third as Greg Salisbury's men won emphatically 5-1 away to Little Eaton.

Goals came via a rare brace from Vinny Hallifield, who led the way. Toby Foxon, Callum Cocker and Dave Brough completed the scoring as they ended the month in some style.

CONTINUING the high profile for the new sporting facilities on Cockshut Lane and now named Melbourne Sports Park, the founder member clubs of The Melbourne Sporting Partnership were invited to the South Derbyshire Sports Awards to receive a Special Recognition Award for the effort put into establishing the MSP.

SDDC recognised the significant amount of personal time given by the local volunteer members of the rugby, cricket and football clubs in establishing the flagship sports venue.

Members of the MSP Board representing rugby, football and cricket collected the award on behalf of all those involved in the venture over many years.