Melbourne Village Voice April 2012

Village Voice No 233 April 2012

Melbourne & District

ONE-WAY ROAD PLAN FOR TOWN

by TOM MILLS

● VISITORS have been flocking to Calke Abbey to get up close and personal with the baby lambs that have been putting in an appearance in the parkland and in the lambing marquee.

With more than 450 lambs expected to be born this season it will be a busy time for everyone.

Volunteer Lambing Assistant Angela Goley (left) and Jennie Lloyd-Warden (right) are joined by a group of visitors in the lambing marquee.

MELBOURNE could find itself on the road to a one-way traffic system if a plan at present under discussion is given the green light.

The controversial proposal for the introduction of a one-way traffic system was on the agenda at the latest parish council highways sub-committee meeting.

No conclusions have so far been arrived at but a meeting has been arranged with a Derbyshire County Council highways authority officer for Tuesday, April 17. The meeting will take place in Melbourne.

The idea is understood to have been submitted directly to the County Council offices in Matlock by a member of the public and the county authority has invited the parish council to comment.

The one-way system, if implemented, would direct all Derby Road traffic from the Market Place to Queensway. No traffic would be allowed from Queensway into Melbourne or allow for access to South Street or Blanchcroft.

Chapel Street would become one-way down from the Market Place as would Potter Street down to Castle Street, while Church Street would be one-way from the junction with Castle Street/Church Square up to the Market Place.

Traffic approaching Melbourne from Derby/Kings Newton along Derby Road would have to turn left into Queensway, then right into Packhorse Road creating increased traffic flow past the schools. Access to the Market Place/High Street would then only be via Church Street.

Even before public consultation the proposals have drawn mixed reactions from some residents.

Comments such as” the town will become a race track ... there will be mayhem ... and the scheme is completely unworkable” are balanced with "sounds like a good idea ... it will reduce confrontation ... and it could smooth traffic flow".

The ambitious proposals may come to nothing but there could be some serious argument before any decisions are made.

Fears over the ‘mountain of mud’ RESIDENTS are still concerned about Melbourne's 'mountain of mud' which was exclusively reported in the March issue of the Village Voice.

People living in Ashby Road and Washington Close are supportive of the Sporting Partnership Development on Cockshut Lane in conjunction with the district council, but are unhappy about the unknown and unexpected impact on themselves and their homes.

Mark Alflat, Director of Operations at South Derbyshire District Council, said: “We recognise some concerns have been raised with regards to the soil slope to be used for landscaping and have offered site meetings to go through the plans with residents. To offer further reassurance, an independent civil engineering consultant is currently verifying the effective-

ness of the drainage and the stability of the raised land. His report is expected after Easter."

Paul Grimley, on behalf of the local residents, said: “We welcome the appointment of an independent consulting civil engineer to review the drainage and stability of the mound, which is of great concern to residents.

“We have requested that the drainage review includes the effect on surrounding fields and properties, and that local knowledge of the area be input to the review.”

The site visit was initially declined by some residents, offering instead an invitation to senior council officers to visit the homes of residents for an ‘on the ground’ view, looking up at the mound of earth.

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Upbeat year for the town’s Civic Society MELBOURNE Civic Society held the 38th Annual General Meeting on March 26 with a large number of members attending.

The meeting was very upbeat with the current officers and committee being re elected for a further 12 months and with Linda Bazley and Shirley Blatch welcomed on to the committee.

The chairman's report was very positive and commented on grants from the EMA Sponsorship Fund and DCC Community Fund, awarded to help the restoration of the monument in Castle Square and to produce a new Walks book. It is planned to complete the monument in time for the Golden Jubilee celebrations in June and it was hoped that the Walks book would be on sale in time for the National Forest Walking Festival in May. The secretary's report included reference to the successful year of events and monthly talks and the increasing use of distribution of the newsletter by email.

For this year Barry Thomas has arranged for three guided walks to be led by himself, Ian Turner and Philip Heath, covering Melbourne, Kings Newton and Melbourne Park on June 23 and for Melbourne Civic Society to contribute walks to the National Forest Walking Festival in May. Thanks were given to Malcolm Busfield for opening his home for the midwinter evening and Melbourne Hall continued to be a welcome venue for the midsummer evening. A pattern of Spring and Autumn litter picks has now been established. They were keenly supported and much appreciated, the next being on April 21 (meeting at the Leisure Centre at 10am).

The nominations for the 2012 Civic Society Award were identified and the judges were Adam Lathbury (Conservation Officer for Derbyshire County Council), Margaret Sharp (Parish Councillor), Neil Wright, Pam Adams and Ian Turner (committee members) and Linda Bazley (member represen-

tative).

The winner was 8 South Street and Gardener's Yard (pictured). The former seedsupplies shop has been smartly renovated by keeping the original shutter and installing new sash windows. The outbuildings, now converted to “mews” dwellings complete a very pleasing set, having been completed using “period” woodwork and paint. Judges thought it an outstanding project and a true labour of love.

Highly Commended was Williams Yard, Derby Road. Commended was 32 Derby Road. Also nominated were The Old Bakery 6 Potter Street and Melbourne Hall Roof.

The AGM was followed by a talk given by Philip Heath on mystery buildings. He described the intriguing difficulties he had encountered in explaining the historical background to some local landmarks. The remains of Swarkestone Hall give only limited clues to its original grandeur. The adja-

cent Old Hall Farm was unlikely to have been a Manor House but could have been a 17th century stable block.

The tithe barn was more likely to have been a Malt House. Weston Hall was an imposing Manor House which was abandoned and never finished but could it have links with Sir Thomas More? The settlement at St Brides could have been the site of a Chapel and Holy Well.

Philip's detailed research provided convincing evidence for his conjectures but frustratingly no positive proof.

The next meeting of the Civic Society will be on Monday, April 30, at 7.30pm at the soon to be renamed Leisure Centre. Richard Matkin will be talking through his year as a beekeeper.

It will also be followed by a short update given by Graham Truscott on progress made so far by Melbourne Area Transitions Group.

● THE proceeds from running the Melbourne Town Cricket Club charity shop were handed over by a group of volunteers who had worked at the shop to representatives of the cricket club, at Harpur’s.

The premises, previously the HSBC, were loaned to MTCC by John Blunt, the present owner, and operated as ‘Catch a Bargain’ from November 2011 until March this year.

Staffed by volunteers, the magnificent sum of £8,019.65 was raised.

Pictured at the handover are (l-r) Rodney Heafield, Jennie Starkie, Richard Heath, Sheila Hicklin, Colin Wakefield, Mark Swallow and Monica Wakefield.

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Village Voice April 2012 3

Miss Melbourne competition time again IT'S getting close to that time of year when a Melbourne girl will win a chance to be a princess for the day.

This year's Miss Melbourne competition is being held on May 11 at the Royal British Legion, and registration forms to take part will be available soon.

The annual contest takes place in the runup to the carnival, which is this year on an Olympics theme and is taking place on July 14.

Last year's Miss Melbourne, Rebecca Renshaw, will be on hand to crown the new winner at the event, sponsored by house builder Davidsons.

Miss Melbourne organiser Tracey Ridley

said: “Miss Melbourne is a great chance for a local teenager to find out what it feels like to be a star for the day and to have the honour of representing their village.

“Last year's competition was very popular with more than 40 girls turning out on the night. I'm sure this year's will see an even higher turn-out.”

The Miss Melbourne competition has been running for decades and was for many years organised by Sid Gregson, proprietor of the Welcome Cafe on Derby Road.

There will be two contests on the night – one for Miss Melbourne herself, and the other to choose six attendants to ride alongside her in the carnival carriage.

Attendants must be of school age, while Miss Melbourne hopefuls must be aged between 11 and 18 and live within the village boundary.

Registration forms will be available at the Post Office, Budgens and the Leisure Centre, and candidates can also just turn up on the night. Forms will also be distributed in school book bags.

As part of the competition, candidates will be asked questions by judges, and there will also be a disco.

Whoever is chosen to be Miss Melbourne will also take part in other carnival-related events, such as handing over money raised for charity.

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THE Dower House garden in Melbourne will be open to the public over the May Bank holiday weekend May 5, 6 and 7 from 10am to 5.30pm (10am - 2pm on the Monday) in aid of charity.

THE Back to Netball sessions being held on Monday nights at Melbourne Junior School continue to be well attended and offer a gentle and friendly introduction to the game for those aged 16 and over.

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Metal thief is jailed A THIEF who broke into a Melbourne scrap dealership has been jailed for six months.

Gavin Hall was sentenced at Derby Crown Court after pleading guilty to burgling Melbourne Metals, in Castle Lane, Melbourne, on January 5.

Hall was part of a gang which broke into the business by smashing through a side wall before stealing thousands of pounds worth of brass, copper and nickel.

Staff arriving at the site the next morning discovered the breakin and called police. The 21-year-old, of Stretton Drive, Coalville, was arrested after his blood was found at the scene.

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FANNY, Betty and Hilda – three 'dinner ladies' from Melbourne – served up a successful helping on TV’s Britain’s Got Talent.

The ladies are in fact Darren Walker and brothers Ian and Robert Statham, who used kitchen equipment and musical instruments in an attempt to impress the judges with their performance.

And it was a recipe for success, capturing three yes votes (Simon Cowell the only one of the four judges to disagree) in a bid to earn their place in the next round of the popular TV show.

The men, from Melbourne, have been performing for 20-plus years in Celtic rock band The Boys Next Door but they swapped their usual style to perform as the Dinner Ladies with a rendition of judge Alesha Dixon's song, The Boy Does Nothing.

“We were working next door to where they were filming Britain’s Got Talent,” said Ian, “and we decided to enter for a laugh.”

Ian attached his drums to a trolley, Darren played saxophone while using a whisk and a bowl while Robert played guitar and sang.

The group auditioned for the ITV hit show at the Oval in London at the end of January and were told there and then that they had made it through to the first round.

Weeks later they got to perform in front of judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Carmen Electra and David Walliams at the Hammersmith Apollo.

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OUR cattle have just passed their TB test, which is a great relief. At present we are tested every two years, which I tend to think is not frequent enough as a lot can happen in that time.

Herds in some areas are still on a fouryear interval and we’ve heard some horror stories about how many animals are discovered with the disease.

I’ve spoken to a farmer who lost 40 per cent of his cattle in this situation.

The Ministry of Agriculture veterinary department cannot cope with any more testing due to withdrawal of funds in the Govt spending cuts, which seems very short-sighted. They are very busy in areas where TB is rife.

Once a herd has reactors identified it has to be re-tested every 60 days until it has two clear tests. I always plan our testing

FARM FUN FOR CHILDREN THE CHILDREN and staff at Breedon Play and Learn Preschool were out enjoying the fantastic spring weather at a local farm.

The children, who range from two to four years, had the opportunity to stroke new-born lambs and watch them being fed. They were also incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to ride on Peter the pony.

The preschool, which has recently undergone an Ofsted inspection and was awarded the

Things to do & see at Calke Come and enjoy Calke this spring time, we are open every day There is fun and activities for families, every weekend and during school holidays in Squirt's stable.

Forthcoming events Amazing Auriculas

Mid April to Mid May Come and see the splendid Auricula Theatre in full colour. The Auriculas are due in mid April. Until their arrival the theatre is festooned with 160 old fashioned violas such as Johnnie Jump Up, Prince Henry and Arkwright Ruby.

Bluebells

Enjoy the stunning bluebells in the Park – visit our website and view the National Trust Bluebell Watch and follow us on facebook to make sure they are out!

Spring Fine Food Fair Sunday 29 April 11am – 4pm

Come and celebrate local food and produce grown, raised, baked or caught within a 30 mile radius.

Our very own Calke chefs will demonstrate some culinary delights using the fresh local produce available on the day! With a wide variety of local producers providing foods to taste and for you to buy, come and celebrate all that is great about local food in our Riding School.

Craft Show Saturday 5 - Monday 7 May 10am – 5pm

With fine crafts and quality goods to buy, demonstrations and free children’s entertainment. 10am – 5pm. £3.50 adults £1 children NT members £3.00 (Park admission applies) For advance tickets and further information visit www.easternevents.com

Opening for 2012

House: Open Saturday – Wednesday 12.30pm – 5pm End of Era Tours Thursdays and Fridays 11am – 4pm Garden: Open daily 11am – 5pm Restaurant/Shop: Open daily 10.30am – 5pm Calke Park & Nature Reserve: Open daily 7.30am – 7.30pm (dusk if earlier, closed 25 Dec)

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke for more information Normal park admission applies to all visitors.

For more information on what’s on at Calke please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/calke or telephone 01332 863822

in early spring when we are not quite as busy with our own fieldwork and contract work is at its least.

To think we would have to gather all our cattle together every two months during the summer for four days leaves me feeling slightly ill, but luckily for now it’s not to be.

We have masses of deer and badgers around the farm both of which can get the disease, so we can only assume that they are free of it. We do, however, have the reservoir on three sides which gives us a natural barrier for animal movements.

However, there is a farm nearby which does have animals which are brought straight out of markets without testing and this is very worrying. Do badgers and deer travel about very far?

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second highest ranking ‘Good’, regularly takes the children on outings.

"We strongly believe it is important for children to widen their experiences and learn about the world around them," said Emma, Preschool Leader.

"We are now looking forward to a fun-packed summer term."

Pictured are preschool deputy Dawn Hewitt, with Netty Young riding the pony and farmer Mr Armson leading.

■ I was very pleased to see lapwings showing signs of nesting recently on some of our land. We have quite a bit of land un-cropped at the moment ready for crops of maize and this is the perfect habitat for the birds, being just bare soil.

The nest is just a hollowed out scrape with a few bits of straw and usually has four beautifully marked pointed eggs. Its camouflage is fantastic and as a child it was a real achievement to find a nest.

One thing is certain and that is that when the land is cultivated I shall have to do it to make sure all the nests are preserved.

■ I couldn’t ‘not’ mention the weather!

Aberdeen last week 24 degrees, today minus two degrees and several inches of snow. Still in our area it’s very dry and crops are just starting to show some stress.

Village Voice April 2012 5

Dog fouling reaches ‘epidemic’ figures

NEWS in brief A CRIME prevention initiative in conjunction with the Safer South Derbyshire Partnership will be taking place on Tuesday, May 1, at Budgens car park, Derby Road, Melbourne, between 3pm and 6pm.

Due to the rise in number plate thefts in the area, members of the public are invited to attend with their vehicles and the number plates will be fitted with tamperproof screws, free of charge.

Pc Jane Newman of Melbourne Safer Neighbourhood will be in attendance.

■ MELBOURNE Rotary Club will be sponsoring Stroke Awareness Day on Saturday, May 5, between 10am and noon at the Co-op Travel

shop in Melbourne Market Place.

Everyone is welcome to go along and have their blood pressure checked.

■ GRANTS totalling £41,040 have been awarded to 48 local clubs and groups in the third round of Derbyshire County Council’s Community Action Grant funding.

Melbourne Area Transition (MAT) has been awarded £820 to buy a portable apple press which can be used by MAT members to make juice and also loaned out to other local groups and organisations for the same purpose.

The county council introduced the Big Society grants last year with a £250,000 funding pot.

PUBLIC question time began with a barrage of questions from Mrs Eileen Hardy and finished with congratulations TOM MILLS for how great everywhere looked now that the grass has reports from the been mowed.

Discussions on CCTV and dog fouling were a main feature once April meeting of again but there is a connection that engaged all councillors present.

Melbourne Parish The council is in possession of CCTV footage that clearly illustrates a local resident allowing their dog to foul the pavement and then Council leaving without clearing up the mess.

The dilemma for the councillors is how they should proceed. The desire is to effect behavioural change of anti-social Mr Connell of DCC Highways and the parish dog owners who continue to ignore requests to council. clean up after their pets have fouled in a public The district council has invited Melbourne place. Fines can be levied as a punishment for the Sporting Partnership to organise an Olym-Picnic offence but is the CCTV footage sufficient proof to event as part of the council’s Jubilee/Olympics proprosecute or should councillors approach the resi- gramme of events. The Melbourne event will take dent direct and appeal for a change in behaviour? place on September 8 with more details to follow.

There have been 69 incidents of dog fouling in SDDC has engaged an independent civil engirecent weeks with 21 incidents on Cockshut Lane neer to adjudicate on the issues regarding the land Rose Lane, Ticknall, Derbyshire, DE73 7JW alone. It’s almost an epidemic, the council heard. fill/levelling activities at the recreation ground Registered Charity: 1084145 Having agreed to proceed with a new CCTV sysand his report is due to be delivered after Easter tem for the town centre, sub-committee chair Cllr and will be made public.

Head Teacher: Margaret Whyte Wendy Earp presented photographs to fellow South Derbyshire's recycle rate is reported to be councillors to illustrate the proposed locations for the best in the county at 49 per cent. Work is onthe new cameras and wireless link. going to try to improve this. ʀ Independent primary school and nursery A potential safety issue regarding the use of Parish council chairman Cllr Nigel Collyer reʀ Individual care in small classes (max 15) overhead cables that cross High Street is still to ported that he had attended the recent performʀ Warm, welcoming environment be resolved. Decisions on final locations of camance of The Gondoliers by Melbourne Operatic ʀ Good OFSTED eras, who will have access to the monitors and apSociety. His regret was that the excellent performth pointing a council member as data controller will ance had to take place in Long Eaton and that take place at the next sub-committee meeting. there continues to be no suitable venue for perʀ Free nursery places 9am ʹ 4pm Both District and County Council reports were formances in Melbourne. ʀ Flexible enrolment dates presented by Cllr Jim Hewlett and were very brief.

The highlight of the meeting came when the ʀ Affordable fees The re-metalling of Derby Road beyond Melton chairman displayed to the councillors a framed letAvenue to Cockshut Lane has been completed. The ter presented to him by members of the Melbourne www.damecatherines.co.uk 01332 862792 school@damecatherines.co.uk potholes in Cockshut Lane will be repaired before Australian Welsh Male Voice Choir during their being surfaced dressed to prolong its life. recent visit to Melbourne, Derbyshire. The letter The parish council was asked when it would rewas from the Lord Mayor of Melbourne. spond to the county council highways authority An engraved glass chalice for the Lord Mayor with regard to a draft one-way system proposed was presented and entrusted to the musical direcfor Melbourne. The clerk was able to confirm that tor of the visiting choir by Cllr Collyer, to be deliva meeting has been arranged for April 17 between ered safely on the choir’s return home.

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The Rest of the World emerged as champions in a close fought contest, winning by only four points.

The Rugby Club took third spot.

The real winner on the night, however, was Treetops Hospice, with local representative Cheryl Webster being presented with a cheque for £1,600 – the proceeds from the quiz that had run over eight weeks.

In thanking the organisers, Cheryl spoke of her delight in receiving the donation to Treetops, especially so because she was receiving it in her home town from the residents of her home town.

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Bryony talks of her Polar adventure THE BRITISH Legion became the virtual South Pole for a night when record-breaking Antarctic adventurer Bryony Balen gave a talk on her recent expedition.

A good crowd turned out to help her raise funds to assist her chosen charities, and they were treated to a detailed inspirational account of her journey, supported by many quality photographs.

As well as some family and friends, the public audience sat enthralled by her tales of minus 45 degree temperatures, battling through “whiteouts,” while pulling a sledge half her body weight.

She told how there had been low points in the seven-week journey when some of the team had to evacuate, and she detailed her 6,000 calories-a-day diet to enable her to ski the 700 miles to the South Pole.

Her tale of determination and courage explained the route the team took, the hurdles they had to overcome, and the sense of achievement when she made it to the Pole.

As she spoke with confidence and with fluency, it was often difficult to believe that this young lady was only 21. By the

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time most of us had barely taken a driving test, she had already conquered Mont Blanc and now the South Pole.

One had the sense of a world of opportunity open to her.

She fielded questions from an attentive audience on her equipment, on the rations she ate, and inevitably on the more mundane bodily functions while coping with extreme cold. (For those who were not there, and without the graphic detail … yes, you dig a hole; yes, it freezes; and no, you don’t hang about).

Melbourne in flowers LOCAL gardeners will have the opportunity this summer to display their skills in a ‘best hanging basket’ competition. The aim is to show-case Melbourne through its floral presentations, so the competition is limited to hanging baskets, tubs, troughs and flower pots.

Representatives of local garden centres will do the judging, during the week commencing July 9, and the best three will be announced at the Carnival, when prizes of garden centre tokens will be presented. The competition is being backed by the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance, and the entry fees of £5 will all go to them. Entries will close on June 30.

Local volunteer collector for the Air Ambulance, Liz Burney, is organising the event, and she can be contacted for further information on 862225, or at april-cottage@tiscali.co.uk.

Village Voice April 2012 7

Melbourne hosts Oz choir MELBOURNE Male Voice Choir has been playing host to a Welsh Male Voice Choir from “the other Melbourne” in Australia.

Kevin Cockayne, secretary of the MVC, had contacted the Australian choir on the internet after he had come across them via the National Association of Welsh Male Voice Choirs. He offered them the opportunity to come to visit the original Melbourne, and “they leapt at it!” The trip has been two years in the planning.

The 33-member choir is on a two-week tour of the UK, covering South Wales, the Midlands and the North West, involving about a dozen appearances. Included in the tour is a 1,200-male voice event at the Manchester Arena.

The Melbourne itinerary included a pub lunch at the John Thompson Inn, a tour of

Melbourne – including a visit to the Thomas Cook memorial – an afternoon reception at Melbourne Hall hosted by Lord Ralph Kerr and a concert in St Mary’s Church.

The very enjoyable joint concert performed by Melbourne MVC and the Australian Welsh Male Voice Choir contained a wide selection of traditional and contemporary pieces of Australian, English and Welsh favourites, including Cwm Rhondda, and Waltzing Matilda, some sung in Welsh.

Finally, the national anthems of each respective country were sung.

Melbourne's guests were delighted to be presented with a framed photograph of both choirs that had been taken in the Melbourne Hall gardens during the afternoon.

The visitors' tour will culminate in a concert and reception in Australia House.

Big screen cinema heads for town SINCE The Empire Cinema closed in 1957 there has been no local film theatre in Melbourne. But all that is about to change.

In an enterprising move at the Leisure Centre (now using the working title of the Assembly Rooms) new development manager Andy Heafield has organised an inaugural cinema night.

On Saturday, May 12, using a giant (20 feet) screen and a traditional projector, there will be a showing of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (12a rating). There will be a full cinema experience, with popcorn, sweets and soft drinks on sale and even traditional Pearl and Dean advertising trailers.

The 'Best Marigold' is a superb British comedy film starring Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Maggie Smith, Dev Patel and Tom Wilkinson, which will appeal to a wide audience. It is a story of an Indian hotel, based in Jaipur, which opens its doors as a “grey pound” retirement home. It brings together a group of well-known actors in a heart-warming story of their intriguing lives and loves.

Tickets will be £4 each, or a bargain £10 for a family ticket for four. Doors will open at 6.30pm for screening at 7.30pm. Children under 12 will need to be accompanied by an adult. Tickets will be available in advance from the office in the Leisure Centre or by telephoning 01332 863522.

Mr Heafield hopes this event will be well supported and said: “If successful we would like to have a regular film slot, maybe the second Saturday of the month, showing recent releases, and

perhaps a matinee in the summer holidays and a horror film at Hallowe'en.”

It is modelled on other successful film clubs in similar locations, and means that you can once again walk to the cinema, rather than having to travel into Derby or Swadlincote.

This is just the first of many new ideas Mr Heafield has for making better use of the facilities.

Also on the drawing board are a beer festival, a summer play scheme and a carpet bowls tournament.

“The aim is to look after existing centre users and add activities which will encourage even more people to use the venue for a wide range of activities,” he said.

Presently there are around 500 people belonging to over 30 groups which regularly use the facility. Mr Heafield is also promoting a rock night on September 8, to cater for the teenagers and he is looking for local bands who might be interested in performing.

There is to be a further meeting with the new managing group at the Leisure Centre on April 19.

The meeting will be open to the public and to members of the Leisure Centre. It will discuss the re-naming of the centre, and developments since the new management committee took over. It is hoped there will be a good turn out to engender community involvement.

Mr Heafield is keen to hear from anyone with ideas and he can be contacted on info@melbourneassemblyrooms.co.uk

Council’s spring concert

● CHILDREN from Breedon-on-the-Hill and surrounding villages took part in the annual Easter egg hunt and Easter bonnet parade. The event was organised by St Hardulph’s Primary School PTFA, and more than 60 children and their parents, friends and relatives joined together for a morning of fun at the school.

The event was the first to be sponsored in part by the Breedon Parish Forum, who provided prizes for the best Easter bonnets in age groups 9/10, 7/8, 4/5/6, and pre-school.

The winners were (oldest first) Jessica Johnston, Amelia Rackham-Sayer, Megan Lodown and Josie Farnsworth.

CLLR MICHAEL Stanton, Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, is hosting the council's Spring Concert at Repton School from 7pm on Friday, May 18. Pupils and staff from Foremarke Hall will perform a wide variety of instrumental ensembles covering classical and modern music.

The concert is to raise funds for the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.

Cllr Stanton said: “Pupils at Foremarke Hall have an outstanding reputation for musical excellence and we are excited they are performing for us and raising funds for a worthy cause.”

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WHEN Robert Fearnall moved to Donington Park in 1979, he had ambitious plans for the circuit.

They included raising the venue to international status through Grand Prix and World Championships, of course, but he also saw the opportunity for non-motor racing events as a way of enhancing the profile.

If these plans were to succeed Robert knew he would need the support of the people who lived in the surrounding area. So, with his mix of charm, good humour and generosity (at the bar mostly), he set about winning over the locals to seeing Donington Park as a friend not enemy.

This in the most part he achieved (in the 34 years I knew Robert I never heard a bad word said against him).

Over the next two decades Robert – together with his business partner Maurice Jones and a solid loyal team behind them – put together an incredible programme of events that included Grand Prix for both cars and motorbikes on the track and the Monsters of Rock festivals off the track.

The latter saw the likes of Led Zeppelin and AC/DC play to hundreds of thousands of adoring fans and was the forerunner of Download.

It is during this time that Robert rose through the world motor racing scene to achieve superstardom and he revelled in

COLIN JACKSON writes a moving and revealing memoir about his long-standing friend Robert Fearnall (right), who died suddenly in March, at his home in Melbourne.

Robert's funeral, a private cremation in Cheshire, was attended by his family and many friends "from all over the place".

Robert was 57 and unmarried. it; mixing and fixing, he knew everybody and everybody knew him.

Although this hectic life style seemed to suit Robert down to the ground, equally important was an 'ale' with his friends at the pub when he had knocked off work. It wasn't long before his laughter resounded about the place and a different side of the man was seen. There is still a tape recording somewhere deep in the bowels of the White Swan of him singing Take Me Home Country Roads.

It was during one of these relaxing evenings that he told me he had arranged with a prominent business man to borrow his aeroplane (with pilot) in order to fly to the Isle of Man for a last minute meeting with luminaries from the motorcycle racing world. He asked if I would like to come along.

Well, as brussel sprout knobbing was starting to lose some of its magic by early February, I readily agreed.

After a short flight from EMA we landed and taxied to the terminal. I noticed some consternation on the faces of the fast assembling ground crew as they must have assumed that the owner of the plane was on board.

The door opened and we alighted somewhat unsteadily down the steps (for the nerves you know) and heard the senior ground staff talk rather irritably into a walky talky 'stand down it's nobody of importance'. This still made Robert laugh several years later.

Another huge passion in Robert's life was his love of horse racing and a 'bet' in general. This is one area he didn't like to compromise. Losing a bet

on a horse race was the only time I saw his mood change – if only briefly.

When Robert and his great friend Margaret, the landlady of the White Swan, organised their horse racing excursions to Cheltenham and York, his study of form became a religious undertaking. So much so that no one placed a bet on their fancied nag before consulting him first.

Robert lived in Melbourne for over half his life and became very much a part of it. He occasionally talked of moving away but never did; I think he had grown fond of the place and people more than he had realised.

So now he's left us how will we remember him? His cheerfulness, his genorosity or his laughter filling the room and lifting the mood?

For me personally there are many memories, but one in particular I'll always come back to.

It was Boxing Day and the party was in full swing. Robert sat in our kitchen, eating good food, drinking his favourite wine, talking with my brother, Pete, and other friends, when my wife, Amanda, asked 'Are you alright Robert? Just then the music changed to play his favourite jazz blues ... he looked at her and said 'I’m in heaven'.

A memorial service will take place at Melbourne Parish Church in the near future, details of which are not yet available.

Man who was putting grasstrack racing back on the sporting map IT WAS sad to hear of the death of Robert Fearnall, especially so as he had only recently oiled the wheels to enable the staging of a motorcycle grasstrack event at Donington Park – the first since 1993.

During a long chat between Robert and Rob Smith, an ACU official from Melbourne, over a pint one evening in the Alma, the subject of grasstrack racing cropped up. Robert was interested and asked Rob if he would consider staging an event.

Rob was definitely up for it and so Robert took it on board. Over several months of discussions contracts were drawn up between Donington Park Ltd and and the Burton and Leicester Grasstrack Association to host a grasstrack event.

The first events took place in late March with a very successful youth championship (Donington Demons Little Devils) run under the auspices of the Auto Cycle Union East Midlands Centre.

An adult practice day (the Old Devils) was held on Sunday, March 25, which gave good feedback from the riders and spectators. The day gave the teams a great chance to try new set-ups, gearing changes and adjusting geometry of the frames.

Sadly, Robert Fearnall passed away suddenly on March 1 and was not able to wit-

ness the success of the events he had helped to organise.

The B&LGA is holding its main event of the Donington Demons on Saturday, May 12, in conjunction with the World Superbikes.

This will be an East Midland Adult Championship incorporating the Jim Rendall Trophy.

The event is free admission, although programmes will be on sale at the gate for £4, which includes a prize draw for two free tickets for the British Super Bikes to be held at Donington Park on September 9.

After the recent events, we know that the track is up to the job. The riders were very

pleased with the track surface and the track curator had no issues with dust, rutting or the surface breaking up – a common problem when a field is overused for the sport.

Grasstrack racing is one of the oldest forms of motorcycling sports and was often the starting point for many of the famous names of the past – even Murray Walker and Bernie Ecclestone were grasstrackers.

The machines use specialist lightweight frames and engines that run on methanol (wood alcohol) which is much better for the environment than petrol.

One other important thing is that these machines do not have any brakes.

Sponsorship through advertising for the three events has been provided by Dan Bint and Gayle Weston, the proprietors of the Lamb Inn and Melbourne Pizzas, with Joe Hughes International from Derby, suppliers of protective clothing etc to the sport, making a generous cash donation towards trophies and laurels.

Jon Hughes (no relation to Joe), of JHR Frames of Swadlincote, builders of grasstrack motorcycles, made a cash donation to the Burton and Leicester Grasstrack Association. Donington Park Ltd provided free services and a great raffle prize of two tickets for the World Superbikes event.

– M Stockhill

Village Voice April 2012 9

John, 75, set for his big trek

IN MAY, Melbourne resident John Burney will undertake a gruelling 75-mile trek to mark his 75th birthday and to raise money for the Derbyshire Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA).

John’s challenge, which will take place between Friday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 8, will start from his Melbourne home and

will take him across Derbyshire and Leicestershire countryside to Rutland and back to the DLRAA base at East Midlands Airport where he will be cheered home by members of the Air Ambulance crew.

John said: “The challenge seems to have really caught people’s imagination and I am truly grateful for all the support I have

received. I am delighted we have reached £1,000 and I am hopeful that we will soon have raised enough to pay for one of the Air Ambulance's life-saving missions.”

If you would like to sponsor John in aid of your local Air Ambulance, then simply visit www.justgiving.com/John-Burney-75-walk.

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The Late - Mrs Beryl Barton Jocie, Bron and their families wish to give thanks for all the wonderful tributes given to their Mum, Beryl. They were overwhelmed by the number of cards received, a tribute to how fond so many people were of her. Special thanks to the Rev Dr Mark Powell for the sensitive way that he supported us and the caring and dignified way in which he conducted the service.

Thanks also to John Springthorpe, the Funeral Director and his team for their professionalism at all stages before and during the funeral. Thank you also to all who donated to Melbourne Community Care and Senior Citizens Centre.

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SuSie enJoyS her big day SUSIE Dixon, who featured in the March edition of Village Voice on the eve of her 100th birthday, celebrated the big day with her immediate family (above) at Swarkestone Cricket Club.

Susie is one of only 120 people in the country still driving at the age of 100 and she appeared on the BBC's The One Show. TV reporter Carrie Grant visited Susie, who drove her around Barrow on Trent.

The centenarian was taken for a spin in a 1925 Bullnosed Morris, similar to her very first car.

In a hectic week Susie was also invited to Sale and Davy's School at Barrow for a special assembly and presentation (left).

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Athenaeum future plans

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PLANS for the future of the Athenaeum, the youth internet café in Potter Street, and how best to relaunch a Christian youth work programme was the main topic when an open evening was held in Melbourne.

Around 50 people turned up for the event which took on a 'workshop' style format led by Nigel Pimlott (above), a worker with the Youth Frontier Trust (YFT). The attendees came from various suburbs of Derby and from Swadlincote, Castle Donington, Hartshorne, Nottingham and Melbourne and they all had at least one thing in common – an interest in young people and a desire to demonstrate their support for them through a Christian youth work programme.

Following welcomes and introductions from members of the Methodist Church Athenaeum team, Mr Pimlott led discussions through the use of slides encouraging table groups to consider a whole range of topics, actions, thoughts and ideas

on young people, their needs, desires and aspirations and what could be done to support young people in achieving their goals.

The table swapping enabled people to meet each other and exchange views and ideas which were summarised at the end of each mini session with the outcomes recorded for later assessment.

This was not a dull event, it was inspiring and rewarding for both the organisers and participants alike and each participant was tasked with taking something away from the evening and committing themselves to an action and a time frame in their ongoing individual work with young people.

How the Athenaeum project will proceed in the near future has still to be resolved, but the management team is open to novel or creative ideas on how best to deliver youth work through the use of the Athenaeum.

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● The 2012 Chellaston Academy Uganda team Student volunteers from earlier visits to Ugan John Dicken House (right), and in more form

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by FRANK HUGHES WITH just three months left until departure day, this year’s Chellaston Academy’s Uganda trip is now being finalised and financed.

This will be the fifth year a group of 24 sixth-form students will be spending a month in Kampala, Uganda’s capital, maintaining and developing the two sponsored orphanages.

The Uganda project has assisted over 130 children out of a life which otherwise would have been one of abject poverty, facing the daily dangers of homelessness in the slums of East Africa. Four of the eldest children have now moved on to live independently and two have gained university places.

The project has built and developed two separate dwellings – the John Dickens House opened in 2009 (named after former assistant head at Chellaston, John Dickens) and Mydel House, opened in 2010.

While Chellaston own John Dickens House (JDH), and have a commitment to meet ongoing running costs, the Mydel building is run by a local youth development organisation.

Each student going to Uganda needs to raise about £2,000 to meet travel and accommodation expenses, but this is only part of the fundraising. It costs about £3,000 to maintain one of the orphanages, and this year there will be building work costing over £13,000 to fund.

There are now junior fund-raising teams in all of the school year groups involving over 200 students – not just the sixth form – and they all contribute. This year the annual race night fund-raising event hauled in a record £10,808, supported by a generous individual donation of £5,000.

The students are involved in deciding which projects to support – and this year the main work will be at the Mydel site where they plan to build a new dormitory for 24 boys and convert the old house into a school.

Village Voice April 2012 13

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he fifth visit to help African project

There are also some renovations to be completed at the JDH site.

The students spend three of the four weeks on site, using practical building and constructional skills they have developed in the training period, but they also get the chance for some fun activities such as raft-

ing and safari trips.

Asked what he felt were the main benefits of the school's involvement in this project, Richard Karran, the founder and still the main driving force of the Uganda trips, said he thought it fitted very well with the school ethos.

As well as the direct assistance given to the African children, the students who go on the trip develop a much deeper awareness of all types of society and life beyond their immediate horizons; they become more welcoming, respectful and accepting of people from different backgrounds and cultures. He had noted, too, that nearly all students in the group went on to improve academic grades, as it added a sense of purpose, and it also doubtless helped in writing personal statements for university applications.

Competition for places on the trip is high, and it is a difficult job each year trying to sift out those who will undergo the preparatory training and make the trip. A number of former students still return independently to the orphanages to maintain links forged years earlier when they visited.

The students will be continuing to finalise the fund-raising and recently visited Melbourne Parish Church on Mother's Day to talk about their project. They are doing a 10k marathon in Manchester and a “Chello Mile” fund-raiser in May. Mr Karran remains very proud of the students and their work, and he had wider recognition from a major tour operator which described it as the best organised school trip they had heard of.

He is also keen to ensure that the project lasts long into the future, when it is hoped both orphanages can become wholly self-financing, to ensure the continuation of the legacy and association with the school.

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14 Village Voice April 2012

Jubilee events finalised

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THE DIAMOND Jubilee organising committee is now finalising Melbourne’s celebrations.

On May 19 there will be an afternoon of nostalgia at the Senior Citizens' centre, with a tea party and a sing-along from 2pm-5pm. The event is free, open to all senior citizens and will feature entertainment from Melbourne Operatic Society.

Then on Saturday, June 2, the main event, titled Picnic in The Square, will be opened by Lord Ralph Kerr, with the unveiling of the refurbished lamp stand at 3.30pm in Castle Square. There will be a children’s tea party thereafter and all children aged 11 or under will receive a Jubilee mug.

The evening’s entertainment will include Melbourne Town Band and their training band, Bon

We’re on the right path MEMBERS of the Melbourne Footpath Group have walked every path in the parish and produced a report that will enable them to prioritise the improvements needed on the network.

"The overall state of our footpaths was good with most of the problems on the edges of the parish," said secretary of the group, Barry Thomas, adding that "we will be working with the local footpaths officer, the county's Ranger Service and local landowners to improve waymarking and to repair stiles over the next few months to ensure that the parish's paths, which attract so many visitors to the town, are in tip top condition".

The group will walk every path again in the autumn.

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Jazz and the Little Big Band, the Mink Hounds – a local blues band – A Choir’d Taste and Exile.

Headlining will be the multi-talented Boys Next Door, who have just appeared on Britain’s Got Talent as The Dinner Ladies.

There will also be a folk outfit, Stargazey who will be ‘calling’ some country dancing and an opportunity to join in a Zumba with Picture of Health.

A firework display will bring the event to a close at around 11.30pm.

There will be food on sale during the evening, with a hog roast provided by Wayne Spiers and Indian food being provided by Zeerah, but the theme throughout the day will be bring your own tables, chairs, food and drink.

DIGGING IN ... the new officers of Melbourne Allotment Association: chair Jenny Starkie, secretary Mick Robey (right) and treasurer Daryl Garner. Melbourne residents who would like to take on an allotment are invited to apply in writing to M Robey, 11 The Pingle, Melbourne.

Village Voice April 2012 15 ● PUDDLE-DUCKS Preschool of Melbourne held a mini Olympics to raise money for ‘Sports Relief‘.

The children enjoyed participating in various sporting activities from hurdles to egg and spoon race. Each child received a medal and certificate for taking part.

A total of £40 was raised by the children and Puddle-ducks matched the sum.

Puddle-ducks Pre-school runs every day, offering both morning and afternoon sessions for two to five-year-olds.

Knockout time at carnival REMEMBER It's a Knockout? Then prepare to take a trip down memory lane – because it's coming to the Melbourne Carnival.

The carnival team has asked Lincolnshire-based We're a Knockout to provide its services at this year's event. And The National Forest Spring Water Company is sponsoring the games with enough water to keep the teams hydrated.

That means water, buckets, inflatables, giant balls and sponges will all be taking centre stage at the school playing field on July 14.

Now organisers are looking for teams to take part.

Carnival chairman Rose Minifie says: “It's a Knockout will be a great feature of the carnival this year and a brilliant chance for people to join in and have a go.

“It ties in really well with the Olympics theme of this year's carnival as lots of people will be dressed in sporty costume and the whole day is all about games.

“The carnival committee will be putting a team together for the event and we're looking for plenty

of other people in Melbourne to come forward too.

“How many times have you watched your kids enjoying soft play and wished there was a grownup version? Well, now there is. And it's got water.”

It's a Knockout will run throughout the afternoon on carnival day. The main games will be for adults – 16 years and over – and teams will need to register before the day.

Staff members from We're a Knockout will be on hand on the day and there will be disclaimer forms to sign. There is space for up to 24 teams to enter, with eight people needed for each team. Families who would like to take part in a mini-games at the end of the day will be able to put their names down on July 14 at the officials' tent.

To book a stall at the carnival, contact Rachel Hill at melbournecarnival@hotmail.co.uk. Those who want to include their float in the procession should get in touch with Rosie Atkins at philipandrosie@yahoo.co.uk.

It's a Knockout teams should contact Chris Peat on 07814 523370 or at robandchris.peat@btinternet.com.

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16 Village Voice April 2012

Members of the Parish Council Chairman Nigel Collyer Vice Chairman Jane Carroll Burial Grounds Sheila Hicklin Highways Wendy Earp Recreation & Amenities Andrew Jackson Leisure Centre Christopher Howard OBE David Carpenter Cliff Crawford Sarah Dunnicliff Rose Minifie Robert Parker Margaret Sharp David Smith Paul Willmore Norman Hill Clerk Leisure Centre Cemetery Robert Holman

07831 540538 863269 865726 865019 702800 07795 484120 864521 863445 862162 07795 362936 07973 297404 862471 862699 863044 703745 863522 07966 461416

Useful Numbers Aircraft Noise Complaints Clean Team (fly-tipping) Street Lighting Faults Potholes

0845 1088540 0800 5872349 0845 6058058 0845 6058058

Melbourne Parish Council Annual Report

The Parish Council has been able to make some real strides towards some of our strategic goals during the past year: • Sound Financial management, ending the year in line with our budget.

• The first contested Parish Council election for very many years.

• Concluded (almost) the long-running uncertainty regarding the future strategy of the Leisure Centre.

• Commenced scheme, working with Melbourne Civic Society, to restore Castle Square monument, as a Diamond Jubilee project, and the PC has underpinned and facilitated the work of local volunteers to mark the occasion.

• Supported Melbourne Sporting partnership with its plans for improvements at Cockshut Lane, which Cllr Harrison announced recently have received a funding boost.

• Monitored the effectiveness of the 2011 realignment of Kings Newton corner – with an improvement in accident frequency, albeit with some complaints about slowing of traffic.

• Put the Council’s HumanResource policies into good order, protecting the Council against future significant liabilities, which would have been borne by the Parish precept.

Sadly no progress on just one of last year’s objectives: • To use whatever additional powers are conferred on Parish Councils by Government to the best advantage of the Village but as the localism bill makes its way through Government we must seize any opportunity to make a positive impact on the village.

Nigel Collyer - Chairman, Melbourne Parish Council

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TUESDAY

We said we weren’t too young – golden couple

by TOM MILLS “THEY try to tell us we're too young" are the opening words of a popular song made famous by Nat King Cole in the early 50s and well remembered

by Peter and Christine Elliott.

"That's what our parents told us," said Christine when I spoke to them on their golden wedding anniversary. "Our parents didn't want us to get married so young – but the last line completes the story 'We were not too young at all'."

Christine and Peter were married on March 24, 1962, at St Michael and All Angels, Alvaston, with Christine's sister, Elizabeth, and cousins, Janet and Wendy, bridesmaids and page boy John. Best man was Peter's brother Alf. The couple had first met at Lancaster Youth Club in Derby where Peter was playing table tennis. Christine arrived with friends from Southgate Youth Club to play in a netball match and it was love at first sight. In addition to table tennis and netball they both enjoyed swimming – Christine was a schoolgirl champion – and dancing.

Dancing was their favourite pastime and they recall many happy memories of times spent at the Rialto, Trocadero, Churchill's and the Assembly Rooms.

Peter was from Melbourne and started market gardening when he first left school before joining Rolls-Royce at 18. Christine, from Alvaston, first

worked at Rolls-Royce before becoming a trainee nurse at the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary. They had two children, Mark and Mandy, who are now married; coincidently Mandy is married to a Mark.

They have three grandchildren.

The couple lived in Alvaston until 1976 when they came to Melbourne. Peter continued to work at Rolls-Royce until taking early retirement in 1999 and Christine continued nursing at the DRI, later moving into subnormality nursing at Aston Hall.

She returned to Rolls-Royce and since her retirement has been volunteering at the Leonard Cheshire/Sue Ryder home, Calke Abbey and now at the Treetops shop in Melbourne.

The couple have kept active with Peter taking to gardening both at home and with an allotment; they enjoy walking both locally and taking walking holidays.

Peter also took up crown green bowling which he plays at the Rolls-Royce green and he also plays flat green when in Spain.

They were celebrating their anniversary with a family get together at The Coopers in Weston on Trent before continuing with more celebrations with their many friends in Spain.

They have enjoyed a loving relationship since their first meeting and both agree that the time has flown, repeating the closing line from that song, 'We were not too young at all'.

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Village Voice April 2012 17

Bethany sings and plays her way to title MELBOURNE Rotary Club played host to the 2012 Young Musician of the Year competition in which 20 already talented young people entertained an enthusiastic audience.

From beginners like Fraser Howat whose extended trombone was taller than he was to Tom Osborne whose excellent performance of the Hummel Trumpet Concerto captivated a spellbound audience, the quality of the music was impressive.

Moreover, Jools Holland had better look out when nine-year-old Alex Coleston-Shields is about. His performance of 'Higgledy-Piggledy Jazz', composed by local teacher Elena Cobb, was competent and entertaining.

However, it was two young ladies who stole the show. The outright winner was Bethany Caswell, aged nine, who sang and played the flute, piano, and harp, while eight-yearold Kiera Cooksey played the piano and won the under-15 trophy.

Runner-up in the overall competition was Tom Osborne.

Melbourne Rotary Club is pleased to organise this competition and invites music lovers to attend the Young Musician Gala Concert in the Derby Assembly Rooms on April 22.

A group of the young musicians are pictured at the Leisure Centre: (back row) Bethany Caswell (harpist), Alex Coleston-Shields (pianist), Stephanie Rimmer (pianist); (front row) Charlie Coleston-Shields (cello), Emily Lamont (cello), Melissa White (violin), Kiera Cooksey (pianist), Hope Evans (flute) and Fraser Howat (trombone).

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All set for rotAry fun run MELBOURNE Rotary Club’s fifth annual fun run takes place on Sunday, April 29, starting at 11.30am. The format is the same as before, with two events – an 11.2km race for the keen runners and the 5.6km “funny bunny run” for less serious participants.

The funny bunny run, with free rabbit ears and face painting for the kids (and some of the less inhibited older generation), follows last year's route, starting by The Pool, following the road past Pool Cottage and Park Farm to Wilson, returning along Cloud Trail, the old railway line, along Station Road, Castle Street and Church Street, finishing at the Senior Citizens' Centre.

The 11.4km rabbit race covers this lap twice.

All runners are encouraged to raise sponsorship for their own choice of charity, and all surplus funds from the event, not specifically allocated, will be shared between the Rainbows Hospice and Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance.

Entries are requested in advance, by April 23, at £10 (with under-16s £5). Competitors can enter on the day, at £12 and £6 respectively. Second and subsequent children from the same family enter at just £3.

Entries can be made online, at www.melbournefunrun.org.uk or by contacting John Burney on 862225.

18 Village Voice April 2012

Gondoliers a mouth-watering treat from Operatic Society

MELBOURNE COMMUNITY CARE SHOPPING TRIPS/RECREATIONAL OUTINGS MINIBUS TIMETABLE - APRIL AND MAY For further information, cost of trips, or to book a seat, either call in the Community Care Office, Mon-Thu 10:00am-2:00pm; Fri 10:00am-12:00 noon or telephone 863585 (answering machine when office is closed). All journeys subject to number of booked passengers, minimum number required is 8, maximum 12.

• We reserve the right to request a late cancellation fee for bookings cancelled one week before.

• Community Care do not provide escort assistance on these trips.

• For information on our “escorted trips” please contact the Community Care Office.

• Every Friday we run a local door-to-door service to Budgens and assistance can be provided.

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THIS year's Melbourne Operatic Society production was The Gondoliers (or The King of Barataria) by Gilbert and Sullivan, refreshed since its last performance in 2008.

It played to packed houses at the charming Duchess Theatre in Long Eaton.

This successful production, by Melvyn Edwards – better known for his stage appearances with the company – was evidently great fun for the company to perform and, whilst remaining true to the original libretto, contained many nice new touches for the audience to enjoy.

The opera, first performed in 1889, was the 12th comic collaboration of W S Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan and written when there was a difference between them on musical direction. It became their last big hit together. Containing the trademark themes of confused identities, secret loves, tilts at institutions of nobility, monarchy and the legality, and the virtues of marriage, it jogs along at a swift musical pace with some familiar tunes.

It provided many opportunities for the cast to shine and there were many highlights in this production. Among the principals, the Duke (Mike Tebbutt) and Duchess (Jenny Smith) were convincing as impoverished nobility retaining all the trappings of their status; this involved much flamboyancy and adjusting of ample bosoms.

Both principal gondoliers (Les Plimbley, tenor, and Mike McGhee, baritone) gave accomplished performances throughout with some lovely tuneful solos and duets. The grand inquisitor (Mike Robson) brought both gravitas and comic timing to his bassbaritone role.

The main soprano roles of Casilda (Marilyn Baker), Gianetta (Jean Mason) and mezzo soprano Tessa (Helen Blatch) were all distinguished performances, manipulating some difficult musical ranges and complex articulation. Lyric tenor Tony Lawton, as Luiz, was particularly impressive, particularly in his “ Rapture” duet with Casilda.

The strengths of the Operatic come through most strongly in the concerted pieces – with four and five voices in harmony –and in their full choral sections. Here rehearsal time and choreography were well demonstrated. The Act 1 “Try We Life Long” quintet was a delight and Act 2’s “In a contemplative fashion” was very well worked.

All the choral sections contained good movement and visual interest for the audience as well as fine musicality under the direction of conductor Bryan Clarke. Catherine Adams’ choreography, was expert, whilst retaining enough simplicity so as not to detract from the singing. There were some good supporting solo performances, not least the cameo role of Inex (Gill McGhee) as the

aged foster-mother.

Among the fresh directorial adaptations in this performance were the reference to the Duke’s Stock Company as a Global Internet Phenomenon (Dukeofplazatoro.com) and the “Replying we Sing” routine superbly performed as a Ventriloquist act – bringing to mind Ray Allen and Lord Charles.

It is a credit to the Operatic Society that these performances continue to be so well produced, despite being amateurs.

The wardrobe mistress (Jean Mason) deserves praise for the colourful and lavish costumes. The lighting, under direction of Messrs Birchall, Robey and Aitkenhead complemented the action and the orchestration, although a little thinner than previous years, is always precise.

The performances are well supported by a huge team of volunteer helpers. The whole team deserves credit for maintaining a high standard.

As the Melbourne contingent left Long Eaton, whistling the air of “A pair of sparking eyes,” the only grumble is that we do not have a venue with decent facilities, incorporating raked seating, to stage such memorable performances.

Let’s hope the new Leisure Centre managers can do something to attract the Operatic Society back to its home town.

– Frank Hughes

Mum’s the word for this poet THE FIRST Melbourne Art Festival event of the year – Ten Poems about Mothers – attracted over 30 people to hear Jenny Swann, of Candlestick Press, reading from her Poetry Pamphlet about mothers, washed down with hot tea and lots of cake!

Jenny set up the press in 2008, bringing back to life the tradition of poetry pamphlets – small compilations of poetry – bigger than a card and more manageable than a book.

‘Ten Mothers’ included an eclectic selection from D H Lawrence to Benjamin Zephaniah, all of which struck a chord with the audience.

Amnesty registered

After the success of this event the Festival team hopes to persuade Jenny to return during the Festival in September – or maybe for Ten Poems about Christmas.

Pictured are Festival Director Sharon Brown (standing) with Jenny Swann and ladies with tea.

Comedy night at the Legion TICKETS are now available for the next Festival Comedy Night on April 20 at the Royal Suite, Melbourne British Legion.

The evening will follow the usual format with three comedians and a compere.

THE recently formed Melbourne Amnesty International group has now been registered with the UK branch.

With regular meetings on the fourth Thursday of the month at Church House, Melbourne, the group has a tea and coffee morning planned for Saturday, May 19, at the same venue. There will be stalls including the Pickle Factory, second hand books, cakes, a raffle and Melbourne Sweets and Treats.

Contributions for the book stall and raffle can be made by contacting by phone 863703 or by emailing v.m.murray@btinternet.com Someone will speak briefly about Amnesty.

There are plans to adopt a Prisoner of Conscience with whom the group can keep in touch and work towards their release.

Village Voice April 2012 19

Choir’s gala concert at Calke Abbey GRESLEY Male Voice Choir will be making one of its very rare appearances in the Melbourne area next month when, in partnership with the National Trust, it will perform a gala concert in the new concert hall at Calke Abbey.

This new venture for both parties takes place on Saturday, May 12, at 7.30pm and the guest artiste will be Tanya Hilton (piano).

This highly acclaimed choir is in constant demand and performs on average 22 concerts each year as well as tours in the UK and Europe. It raises in excess of £10,000 annually for charities.

The choir has recently returned from a tour of France where it was honoured to be invited to sing in the cathedrals of Orleans and Chartres. Among its engagements this year the choir has planned a tour of Cornwall in July; it will entertain the Vancouver Welsh Male Voice Choir in concert in Burton Town Hall in June; and join Luton MVC in November as well as numerous local concerts.

Guest artiste Tanya Hilton was born in St. Petersburg, Russia, where she played the piano from the age of five. Her great aunt studied under Sergei Rachmaninov so it was no surprise Tanya took up the art and continued to participate in national and international competitions. She qualified as a concert pianist, concert master and piano teacher at the Nizhny Novgorod Conservatoire.

Tickets for the event are priced at £10 which includes refreshments and are available from Calke Abbey Reception (01332 863822) or the GMVC ticket agent (01283 215006).

Honey Man treat for village hall THE HONEY Man is coming to Ticknall. This is the latest touring production from the New Perspectives Theatre Company, following on from the last superb Steeple Sinderby Wanderers production.

It is the story of an unlikely friendship between an “ancient” AfroCaribbean man and a teenage girl in a picture postcard English village. It is a tale of growing up, growing old, and a shared history of dying bees, healing herbs and a little magic.

The recommended audience is adults and older children.

The show starts at 7.30pm on May 15, and will be in Ticknall Village Hall. Tickets are £8 for adults and £6 for under 18s and are available from Ticknall Village Stores.

These productions are non-profit making and really need support to keep live theatre in the community going.

Festival of Leisure looking for wow factor ENTERTAINERS are being invited to showcase their skills at one of the biggest events in the South Derbyshire calendar. The Festival of Leisure, a long-held tradition renowned for its displays, demonstrations and music, is taking place at Maurice Lea Memorial Park, in Church Gresley, on June 23 and 24.

Calls are now being made for unique, varied and interesting acts, individuals or groups to wow the crowds in the main arena.

Further information is available by emailing grounds@south-derbys.gov.uk.

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22 Village Voice April 2012

£50,000 in sailing club locker STAUNTON Harold Sailing Club has secured £50,000 of Olympic legacy funding from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund.

The fund is part of the £135 million Places People Play legacy programme that is bringing the magic of a home Olympic and Paralympic Games into communities across the country.

A handover ceremony saw South Derbyshire MP Heather Wheeler present the cheque to Staunton Harold Commodore, Nick Waters, with Gemma Blewett and Ian Poynton from Sport England in attendance.

A good turn-out of club members and visitors were there to witness this significant investment in the club.

Heather Wheeler said: “I am delighted that the Staunton Harold Sailing Club has secured this impressive £50,000 grant.

“As London is gearing up for the Olympics, I think it is fantastic that this Olympic legacy funding provided by Sport England’s Inspired Facilities Fund is available to local clubs across the country."

Gemma Blewett said: “This fund has really hit the mark with sports clubs in Derbyshire. It shows we’re offering the legacy that people want for their

Jamie’s title treble ASTON on Trent schoolboy Jamie Spencer-Pickup recently achieved a massive junior judo milestone and accomplished the treble by winning the National Schools Judo competition for Trent College School, adding to the National and Midland titles won earlier this year.

The final saw Jamie fighting an opponent he had met in previous encounters. This made the competition very technical, with both fighters not giving an inch.

Jamie suddenly forced a counter move from an attack that his opponent started, resulting in his opponent being laid flat on his back and giving Jamie the bout with a 10point score and win.

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local community. For hundreds of clubs and tens of thousands of people, 2012 will be the year their local sports facilities got better.”

Receiving the cheque, Commodore Waters, said: “We are delighted to secure one of the first of the Inspired Facilities grants, which will enable us to upgrade the quality of our premises. An attractive and spacious clubhouse is an essential part of our strategy to attract more people into the great sport of sailing.

“This grant will provide all Staunton Harold’s members with a fantastic legacy from the 2012 London Olympics”.

The aim of the project at Staunton Harold Sailing Club is to transform the changing facilities. They date back to when the clubhouse was built in 1974, and are no longer large enough to cope with the increased numbers of members.

Extensions will be built for both changing rooms, and redecoration of the existing rooms carried out.

This will bring these vital rooms up to the same high standard of the rest of the clubhouse.

Pictured at the cheque handover are (from left to right): Ian Poynton, Heather Wheeler MP, Nick Waters and Gemma Blewett.

DYNAMO RESERvES BOUNCE BACK TO wINNINg FORM Cont’d from Back Page place in the final at Gresley Rovers' ground on Sunday, April 22, against Shobnall Athletic (10.30am kick-off).

A depleted Ticknall lost 3-2 at home the following week, going down to a last minute Marlborough goal with Archer and Charlie Ault getting the Ticknall goals.

This was followed by their worst performance of the season away to Midway which resulted in a 3-0 defeat. Ticknall however ended the month with a 2-1 win at Travellers Rest B with goals from Alex Slater and Matt Archer earning the win. It was Archer's 28th goal this season.

DYNAMO Reserves returned to form, winning three and drawing one. They began with a comfortable 3-1 win away to

Hilton Harriers, Matt Archer scoring twice with Farrell Scott getting the other.

It was 3-1 the following week at home to Roe Farm with Dave Worger, Oli Seamer and Matt Archer earning the victory. This was followed by a hard fought 2-2 draw against Wirksworth Ivanhoe with Jack Tivey hitting both.

The Reserves ended the month with an easy 3-0 win over Little Eaton Reserves with Dom Saniera getting a brace and Jack Tivey the other.

Both Dynamo teams lie in third place in their respective leagues going into the last month of the season, so silverware is still a distinct possibility.

AFC MELBOURNE continued to struggle in March, losing all five games begin-

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ning with a 7-1 loss to West Park with Rob Painting getting the consolation.

He was on the score-sheet the following week along with Paul Gillers in their 7-2 defeat at the hands of Erewash Hotel.

A 7-0 loss to Stenson was followed by a 7-1 home defeat to Erewash Hotel again, although two goals from Rob Painting – one a spectacular free-kick – were just in consolation.

AFC ended the month losing 6-1 to Bulls Head, Painting again getting the goal.

THE BLUE BELL had just one game in March and won it convincingly 4-0 at home to West Hallam with Lee Stevenson getting a brace with one from Micheal Tristam and an own goal.

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Village Voice April 2012 23

club coaches take plaudits

MELBOURNE RFC 1st XV: (back row) Ian Masters (coach), Miles Broadbent, Jack Fisher, Rob Hollingsworth, Jacob Watts, Will Judge, Bob Stowell, Alec Judge, Ash Stringer, Dan Walker, Dale Bilson; (front row) Tom Swainston, Rob Foster, Matt Smith (capt), Morris Hall, Jacob Walker, Alex Hollingsworth, Tom Howard and Gary Lakin.

Fisher nets 27 points in impressive victory MELBOURNE Rugby Club kicked off March with a trip to Amber Valley, expecting this to be a tough game, having narrowly lost to Amber Valley at home.

Despite giving away size and weight, the Melbourne pack held its own to give the backs good ball. Tries from Tommy Howard (three), Ash Stringer (two), Jack Fisher, Rob Hollingsworth, Rob Foster and Tom Swainston saw Melbourne stretch to a 67-15 lead before conceding some late scores, eventually winning 67-36.

Fisher added two penalties and eight conversions for a personal haul of 27 points.

Will Judge was voted man of the match.

Next up were Ashby at home, with the match ball kindly sponsored by The Hardinge Arms. Melbourne were keen to avoid their early season defeat and started like they meant business.

Alex Hollingsworth touched down within a minute for the perfect start. Playing into the wind, Melbourne dominated the first half and were a match for Ashby’s occasional forays into their half.

Ash Stringer scored a fine solo effort from inside his own half and, with more clinical finishing and decision making, Melbourne would have been well clear by half-time.

Jack Fisher converted both scores as Melbourne led 14-0 at the interval.

The second half continued with Melbourne dominating. Morris Hall had a trip to the sinbin for killing the ball. Tommy Howard was next to score after stand-in skipper Matt Smith stole a ball in a tackle in the midfield. Matt Smith scored the next two tries to cap a fine game. Jack Fisher scored two penalties and four conversions for a 14-point haul in the 39-0 victory.

Will Judge and Morris Hall were yellow carded, with Morris being awarded a red card for two offences. Melbourne were still strong enough to score the last 10 points while one or two men short.

Next saw two away games. First was a trip to high flying Sleaford and, with a much changed side, Melbourne scored a losing bonus point in a 43-24 defeat.

Tries came from Rob Foster, Rob Hollingsworth, Will Judge and Ash Stringer with two conversions for Jack Fisher.

Stringer was yellow carded.

Then the 1st XV travelled to Belper. This time they had a comfortable bonus point win, winning 27-7. Tries for Alex Hollingsworth, Rob Hollingsworth, Will Judge and Elliot Tew, with Jack Fisher kick-

ing seven points.

THE 2nd XV played Amber Valley in the Pennant and won 26-20. Tries were scored

by Will Hoey (three) and Sean Moran, with three conversions for Dean Sylvester and a yellow card for Tony Day. Next up saw a narrow defeat to Ilkeston 3rds 22-26. Tries came from Aaron Purewal, Sam Stuart, Mark Coyne and Sean Moran with one conversion from James Whitfield.

At home for the visit of a hefty Worksop team Melbourne lost 12-19 having played the whole game a man short when two players failed to turn up. Tries came from Alex Lloyd and James Whitfield with Dave Middleton adding a conversion.

THE COLTS lost their last 32 encounter in the National Cup 13-25 to Oundle. Played in terrible conditions, Melbourne failed to develop a game plan, and were punished for handling errors, conceding three soft tries.

They also lost 22-8 to a combined U17/18 side at Matlock, but performed well against a bigger older squad.

A poor month for the Colts saw them lose 30-10 to Lincoln in the NLD semi-final. Despite having ample ball, they could not convert possession into points, whereas Lincoln took their chances well.

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MELBOURNE RFC are enjoying both playing and coaching success.

A fourth player from Melbourne has recently gained a place in the Tigers Academy. Josh Bevan Brown (U16) was one of only two Notts, Lincs and Derby (NLD) players to be taken into the academy this year and he follows in the footsteps of Andy Gates, Joe Cain, and Jake Albon.

For a small club that is some achievement and is something that the club should be proud of. It is also testament to the investment that the club has put into ensuring qualified coaches, good facilities, and quality kit. This may also go some way to dispel a perception that MRFC Mini and Junior players have to move to a 'bigger' club to be seen.

The coaching quality at MRFC has been recognised within the NLD and demonstrates strength in depth.

Four out of the six Derbyshire county coaches this year were from Melbourne. Tim Wilbraham and Kev Holdgate were the selectors for all of the Derbyshire squads, and as Schools of Rugby coaches were also the selectors for the U13 new intake.

Tim is now head coach of the NLD Schools of Rugby U13s and Kev is head coach of the U14s. Andy Allman has also been invited to coach at Schools of Rugby following on from Derbyshire.

This means that three of the six coaches at the Schools of Rugby are now Melbourne coaches. Derby, Matlock and Nottingham have one each.

There has also been recognition for Phil Milton assisting with the county U15s, Richard Gundry and Nick Woodland have assisted with the county U14s and U13s and Kev Holdgate was also a selector for the NLD U14 squad. He has now been invited to coach the NLD U14 squad, with responsibility for the forwards, in preparation for the Midlands tournament.

The U17 Colts have also benefited from being coached by James Whitfield, a Level 2 coach who is also Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for Loughborough and also coaches at Leicester Tigers.

The first team has also benefited from regular coaching by Ian Masters. Since the introduction of Ian, numbers have improved at training and the club (at the time of writing) is unbeaten in the league since before Christmas.

Masters said: ‘’The ability of the players has never been in doubt.

They are a talented bunch, with youth on their side. What we have collectively tried to install in recent months is more structure, a greater level of commitment to training and a match day mindset.

"The response from the players new and old has been spot on and the recent run of results reflect this. Numbers at training on a Thursday night have significantly improved and we are now in a position where we can honestly say that there is genuine competition for places where no one should take anything for granted."

Gary Rudkin, RFU Community Rugby Coach, said: "Melbourne RFC have one of the most proactive coach development programmes I am aware of – a credit to their club coaching co-ordinator, Tim Wilbraham, who has recently completed the RFU coach developer training to enable him to deliver RFU coach development courses."

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24 Village Voice April 2012

United going from strength to strength

SPORT MELBOURNE United FC continues to go from strength to strength.

Pictured right is the recently formed under-7s team with coach Jim Jenkinson along with the under-9s and under-10s, both of whom are sitting second in their respective Derby Mini League tables.

The club now has seven teams up to under-12 age group and has strong ambitions to grow.

“The recent news that funding has been granted for the regeneration of the Recreation Ground on Cockshut Lane is fantastic news for all those connected with sport in Melbourne,” says the under-10s coach Mark Jackaman.

“As a club our aim is to compete at all age groups, offering children the chance to start as young as six and stay through to adult competition. The new facilities will allow us to build the social as well as the sporting aspect of the club. It’s an exciting time.”

The club always welcomes new players and is specifically looking to recruit at under-7s, under-11s and under-12s. If you are interested in joining call Mark on 07967 694198.

TWO FINAL COUNTDOWNS Melbourne and Ticknall teams go for cup glory after thrilling extra time wins in semis

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LOCAL teams were hit by cup fever in the month of March with Melbourne Dynamos first team and Ticknall Rangers winning their respective trophy semi-finals. Both games were decided in extra time.

MELBOURNE Dynamo began March with a superb 1-0 away win versus Rowsley with leading scorer Adam Ross getting the only goal.

This was followed with a 1-1 home draw against Holbrook with Matt Brian earning Dynamos a point.

Dave Brough came off the bench in style at home to Swanwick, scoring with his first touch to secure Melbourne's 2-1 win. Matt Jones had hit a rare goal to put them in front earlier in the game.

Melbourne ended the month with a comfortable 4-0 home win over Willington with that man Brough, skipper Lee Scott, a Jak Ward penalty and Danny Guild responsible for the goals.

The cup semi-final against Cromford was a hard fought game with no score in normal time. Cromford went 1-0 up straight from the kick-off in extra time, but Melbourne were soon level with the now prolific Matt Jones scuffing one into the corner.

The travelling fans were ecstatic when Lee Bull tapped in after a mistake by the Cromford keeper. The first team held on despite some rough tactics from the opposition and are due to play the final at Sandiacre on April 17, against either Chellaston or Mickleover RBL with a 7.15pm kick off.

TICKNALL Rangers began the month in some style when beating Travellers Rest B in their cup semi-final 4-2 after extra-time.

Ticknall took an early lead from a Matt Archer penalty but somehow found themselves 2-1 down at half-time having dominated the half.

A Ben Dale screamer levelled things up and a Matt Smart header and another from leading goalscorer Matt Archer secured Rangers’ Cont’d on Page 22