Melbourne Village Voice January 2012

SMASH AND GRAB METAL RAIDERS

THREE tonnes of metal – including a cut-out Manchester United emblem – have been stolen by burglars in Melbourne.

The raid took place on Thursday, January 5, between 4.30pm and 11.50pm when the offenders smashed through a wall to enter Melbourne Metals Ltd on Castle Lane.

Included in the haul were a number of smooth brass three foot bars an inch in diameter, brass pipe fittings, 50cm long chrome plated steel bars with a curve shallow half moon, fine wire shavings and thin wiring similar to human hair – as well as the distinctive Man Utd emblem.

Derbyshire Police are asking scrap metal dealers in Derbyshire and surrounding counties to be vigilant and to report any sightings of the items.

This is the latest in a spate of burglaries and thefts that have kept police busy in Melbourne and the surrounding villages in the past month.

Melbourne News, located in the Market Place, was the target for offenders who broke into the premises forcing the front door of the newsagents in the early hours of the morning on December 9.

A large quantity of cigarettes was stolen, the dispensing equipment damaged and the door to the premises had to be repaired and refitted.

Other incidents have included an attempted burglary during the morning of Wednesday, December 28, in Quaker Close when an offender tried to force a rear door without gaining entry but caused damage.

There were also two car key burglaries in Melbourne and a burglary took place on Carr Brook Way when offenders gained entry and stole a TV.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Derbyshire Police on the non-emergency number 101.

The new 101 number was introduced in Derbyshire in October and is being rolled out across the country as part of a national drive to make it easier for people to contact police to report crime and disorder.

The number replaces the former 0345 123 3333 non-emergency number.

INSIDE STORIES

WELCOMING IN 2012...

Partygoers celebrate the new year at The Royal Suite of the Royal British Legion Club in Melbourne.

Imogen a Young Achiever –Page 3

Cricket club shop a smash hit –Page 9

Don’t miss the February 6 public meeting on the future of Melbourne’s leisure facilities –full story Pages 10 and 11

David Stretton

Busy first year for Transition members

MELBOURNE Area Transition celebrated its first anniversary with 20 supporters holding a review of their many local projects at their AGM.

These included the successful flagship 10kw solar PV electricity generating system on Melbourne Parish Church roof, a 19-hectare community woodland project and an on-going scheme to raise money by recycling old mobile phones and printer ink cartridges.

You can help raise cash for this worthwhile project by taking your old phones and empty computer printer ink cartridges and toners. These are being collected in Melbourne at CoOp Travel, Budgens' cigarette counter and outside Church House (next to the Pool Gates). If you care about the environment, you are asked to support the group.

The Transition group is helping local people to understand and adjust to the huge implications of climate change and the end of the cheap oil-based economy. The group shares its vision for a brighter future by giving talks and presentations by holding workshops and running demonstration projects.

These explain today's economic, financial and environmental crises and demonstrate how we can create a better future through local initiatives.

The new committee comprises Graham Truscott (chair), Helen Bralesford (vice-chair), Sarah Spencer-Elliott (secretary), Katherine Parrish (treasurer) and Christian MurrayLeslie.

● Transition members Rachel Coupe and Helen Bralesford are pictured with the first box of used cartridges being sent off for recycling.

FOOD PRODUCTION EXPERT GUEST

AS PART of an ambitious series of events, projects, actions and meetings in 2012, Melbourne Area Transition group will be hosting Alec Duthie, one of Britain’s leading experts on local food production at a special meeting in February.

Alec will discuss community supported agriculture projects here and elsewhere, as well as co-operation with landowners like the National Trust and the National Forest. He will explain why financial crises, energy prices and climate change impacts make local food increasingly important.

The talk and discussion is on Wednesday, February 15, at 7.45pm at Church House, Church Square, Melbourne.

Farmers, market gardeners, back-garden vegetable growers and all who care about their food will be especially welcome – and entry is free to all.

Aston walk is a grand event ...

IN ITS 38th year, the Aston-onTrent Annual Village Walk took place on the glorious morning of December 27. An amazing 617 people, including 109 children, turned out for one of three walks on offer, all of which included some areas of private land courtesy of local land owners.

With the usual format of checking bingo numbers en route and warm welcoming refreshments at the end, the organisers, the Aston Bellringers, were delighted with the turnout. Where else in the county would you find so many people on a village walk?

The organising committee wishes to thank East Midlands Airport for again being the main sponsors of the event. Over £1,000 was raised and proceeds are to be shared between All Saints Church Tower Fund, Aston/Weston Rainbows, Aston/Weston Guides, Aston Well Dressers and Aston Playground Project.

■ FINDERN Footpaths Group supported Rainbows Children’s Hospice with its first ever Santa Stroll. They donned their best red suits and white beards for the three-mile walk to Willington.

Group member Joan Tidy said: "We enjoyed our first ever Santa Stroll enormously and are proud to have raised £425 for this great cause."

● A few of the participants waiting for the start of the Aston walk.

EACH December the Melbourne Charity Band sets out its stall to visit a range of venues, mainly pubs and restaurants between Sudbury and Melbourne, to play Christmas carols for the enjoyment of the customers.

The band is made up of players from a number of bands in the area and their programme finishes on the morning of Christmas Eve when they play in Melbourne Market Place.

Christmas

Man, 61, dies after road accident

A PEDESTRIAN has died in hospital after being hit by a car in Barrow-on-Trent.

Bob Gerrard, from Chellaston, was hit by a Volkswagen Passat at about 5.30pm on Friday, January 6, on Swarkestone Road.

The 61-year-old had been chasing his dog after it slipped its collar, his partner, Helen Capper, said.

Mr Gerrard was treated for serious head injuries at the Royal Derby Hospital but died on Saturday.

Paying tribute, Ms Capper said: "He was a real Chellaston character – everybody knew Bob."

The father-of-four had worked as a bus driver in Derbyshire for 20 years and with homeless people at the Padley Day Centre in the city.

"When we used to go through Derby it would be nothing for him to stop six times and have a chat.

"People said he looked like Billy Connolly but to me he was just Bob," Ms Capper said.

Brave Imogen wins Young Achiever award

IMOGEN Jesson from Melbourne was very proud to receive a Derbyshire Young Achiever of the Year award when she attended a special ceremony in Matlock with her parents, Heather and Gary.

Derbyshire County Council organise the awards to highlight some of the outstanding personal achievements of young people across the county. A total of 78 young people aged four to 17, and two groups, received awards during the ceremony held at Highfields School in Matlock. Around 520 guests and nominators joined them in celebrating their fantastic achievements.

Each young person was nominated because they had shown: bravery, such as fighting an illness or living with a disability; kindness in helping others; a commitment to improving their school, community or local environment; sporting, musical, artistic or academic success.

Imogen was born with a heart defect and subsequent complications have impacted severely on her health and on her lifestyle. She has a heart pacemaker fitted and is often unwell for long periods of time. This has impacted significantly on the time she has been able to attend both primary and secondary schools. Imogen has not been at school since September, having suffered from a serious infection. However, she has persevered and now, at the age of 16, has returned to school and is facing the first of her GCSE examinations in the coming months at Chellaston Academy.

Regardless of her difficulties Imogen has always been a bright and effervescent young person and popular with her friends. The recent aquisition of an electric wheelchair is proving to be a massive benefit and an aid to her mobility and independence.

Imogen was nominated by Melbourne Parish Council.

2011was the eighth consecutive year that the band have been playing in support of Cancer Research and they collected the magnificent sum of £5,300. The band is pictured in Melbourne Market Place on Christmas Eve.

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45 Castle Street, Melbourne.

Charming 2 large double bedroomed cottage in Conservation Area-part furnished. Modern kitchen with all white goods. Separate living/dining areas with beams and feature replaces.Family bathroom with roll top bath.

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Spirited event

THE ANNUAL Recreation In Aston’s ‘Santa round the village’ was a real community spirited event.

17 Market Place, Melbourne.

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Winter time at Calke

In torrential rain, Santa and his merry collectors were not deterred from bringing Christmas cheer to children old and young in Aston. Generous residents along the way brought out selections of hot drinks, mulled wine, hot chicken cobs and mince pies for the collectors and Santa.

Chairman Barbara James said: “Although everyone was wet through, the feeling of community spirit was wonderful. The Aston Welldressers, Aston Pre-school and Recreation In Aston will all benefit from this event, which was very kindly sponsored by East Midlands Airport and The Malt. A big thank you also to John Wilkinson from ‘John’s Eggs’ on Chellaston Lane for his time and use of his lorry."

A group representing the ‘Santa round the village’ team are pictured wet but happy.

Plan for 500 new homes near Chellaston

DEVELOPER Talavera Properties wants to build 500 houses on 48 acres of land to the south of Chellaston.

Chellaston Residents Association is of the opinion that Chellaston has already been developed as far as it can and the present infrastructure and facilities servicing the area are stretched to breaking point.

"The schools are full, the relief road is not complete and there is no longer a GP practice in the centre of Chellaston convenient for residents to get to," are just a few of the examples quoted by the CRA.

The issue of secondary schooling has resurrected the worries expressed previously about capacity at Chellaston Academy for children in Melbourne and the Trent Valley

villages.

'Chellaston Fields' as the proposed new development is being called, is not a done deal but it has already angered many local residents. Peter Loomes, of Ridgeway, said: "The access is going to be a major problem. They are talking about a route straight off the A50 roundabout, which will be dangerous, and another which will lead people through these streets, which will cause major problems, particularly at peak times."

Ward councillors have sent letters to people living in the area, saying they plan to fight the proposals. A petition, started by Walnut Close resident Tracey Fields, is available at The Lawns Hotel, Ridgeway Stores and Chellaston Post Office.

On their website 'chellastonfields.com' the developers state: "We would like to explore with local residents and stakeholders the most appropriate facilities that could be provided. These might include, amongst others medical centre, community hall, dentist surgery, satellite police office, sports/leisure facility and creche or nursery.”

The developers also state that under a Coalition Government initiative, a New Homes Bonus will be granted to a Local Authority where new housing development has taken place. This would mean that a development of up to 500 houses would deliver to South Derbyshire District Council in excess of £3,000,000 while Derbyshire County Council would receive £771,635.

Come and enjoy Calke Park this winter, browse the shop and enjoy some delicious local and freshly prepared food in our restaurant, all of which are open daily.

Talks and lectures followed by delicious lunches

Wednesday 25 January

Bittersweet Chocolate, Nigel Holling

A potted history of chocolate from prehistoric times to the present day. There will be a tasting session when high quality single origin chocolate can be enjoyed.

Thursday 26 January

Calke’s Chefs Challenge

Watch our two senior chefs compete against each other using a bag of mystery ingredients in a surprise cooking challenge.

Wednesday 1 February, 12 noon

Taster Lunch - Calke Estate Meat

Enjoy a 3 course lunch, freshly prepared by the Calke chefs. There will be a multitude of dishes and flavours for you to savour.

Tuesday 7 February, 12 noon

Taster Lunch - Vegetarian Delights

Enjoy a 3 course lunch, freshly prepared by the Calke chefs. There will be a multitude of dishes and flavours for you to savour.

Wednesday 8 February

The Gardens of Calke Abbey, Clive Katz

A history of the gardens at Calke Abbey their creation, decline and rescue.

All start at 10.45am unless otherwise stated. Talks take place in the old riding school followed by lunch in the restaurant. Ticket prices £20 per person. Booking is required for all of these events. Please telephone 01332 695310 to book your tickets.

Restaurant/Shop: Open daily 10.30am 4pm Calke Park & Nature Reserve: Open daily 7.30am 7.30pm (dusk if earlier)

FOR A MORE PERSONAL SERVICE AND HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PROPERTY CALL CHRISTINE JUDGE ON 07870547357

‘What we need is a car parking census’

“CAR parking in Melbourne is insufficient for residents, let alone visitors.”

That was a New Year message from local resident Mr Spear, who requested that the Parish Council consider a census of parking in the town following the recent planning application to develop nine properties at 55 Derby Road, although the application was recently withdrawn.

District and County Councillor John Harrison endorsed the view that parking was insufficient, noting resident car parking charges in some parts of the county work due to tourism, but stating that this wouldn’t ideally work in Melbourne. He suggested the need to find more available land to be considered for parking.

A sub-committee consisting of Cllrs Earp, Freeman, Howard, Jackson and

Parker had been previously established to create a car parking strategy. Chairman Collyer noted that a consultancy paper three or four years ago had looked at parking and it would be useful to review this as part of the sub-committee work.

Mr Spear also highlighted the lack of high speed broadband for business users and residents, especially with more people working from home. Cllr Harrison commented that the Government has £700m set aside across the country to improve connectivity, however only £7m was allocated to Derbyshire County Council and this on a match funding basis. Further discussion was planned prior to the end of the financial year.

Cllr Rose Minifie asked Cllr Harrison on the status of Chellaston Fields development. Cllr Harrison confirmed that while the development would be a major contributor to meeting local housing requirements and includes plans for up to 500 houses, food outlet and hotel, the proposal neglected to mention schooling and education.

Cllr Harrison concluded that with no space at Chellaston Secondary School and insufficient capacity at primary schools in the area, “the educational demands of 500 houses had not been taken into consideration in the planning”. The Chellaston Fields development is currently at the consultation planning stage.

As the turn of the year focuses on how well the county council managed to keep to budget, in the order of £520m, Cllr Harrison advised a further £25m of additional savings would have to be found in 2012/13 through efficiency and procurement savings. Cllr Harrison expected similar pro-rata savings at District level would have to be achieved.

■ The Snow Warden, aka Clerk Norman Hill, will review the request from Cllr Paul Willmore for a grit bin at the bottom of North Street/Alma Street. The council has recently acquired additional bins following the successful induction training of the Snow Warden and now just awaits the snow!

■ Chairman Nigel Collyer noted that Mrs Sue Stubbs, who retired on New Year's Eve, had completed more than 30 years' service. Mrs Stubbs is to be cordially invited to the February council meeting to honour her achievement.

■ Mrs Hardy’s campaign for a Vehicle Activated Sign in Kings Newton has had limited success to date as county council records show only one accident in the last three years. It has been suggested by the parish council to deploy Speed Watch with local residents, thus obtaining hard data to challenge the county council decision.

■ Mrs Hardy complained about potholes on Station Road, suggesting any damage to her car and the council will likely see a claim. Chairman Nigel Collyer suggested residents should report concerns about potholes in Melbourne and dial the Pothole line at the District Council 08456058058 or contact via SDDC website. The process is tried and tested with the council responding in 24-48 hours.

■ The Chairman noted that the Christmas decorations in the town were very impressive and he had received many positive remarks from local residents.

■ Melbourne Neighbourhood Watch will be requested to attend the next committee meeting to identify how they can support plans and recommendations for CCTV.

Andrew Laban (Joe)

Paddy, Joe, Angela, Paul and Emma wish to thank family and friends for all the very many cards letters and words of sympathy in their very sad loss of Andrew (Joe). Thank you to all the very many who attended the funeral service at Melbourne Parish Church on December 2, 2011. Our most sincere thanks to everyone for the generous donations received. Sincere thanks to the Rev Dr Mark Powell for his help and comfort and for the lovely service which he conducted. Thank you also to John Springthorpe and Co. for their help with the funeral arrangements.

STUART BLATCH reports from the January meeting of Melbourne Parish Council

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● A GROUP of young people aged between six and 11 and members of the Melbourne after school club, Bright Lights, meet each Wednesday evening between 6.15 and 7.15. At one of their meetings in December they had an evening of fun with parachute games.

Controversial planning application withdrawn

THE CONTROVERSIAL planning application for a major development at 55 Derby Road, Melbourne, featured in the Village Voice November edition, has been withdrawn.

The widely criticised application was to build nine 'units of accommodation' on a site previously used as offices for The One Off.

The news, confirmed in a South

Derbyshire District Council letter to the Melbourne Civic Society, will be widely welcomed by the many local critics of the proposed development, including the civic society.

Both the Melbourne District Councillors John Harrison and Jim Hewlett were opposed to the proposals, as was Melbourne Parish Council.

Write on! Wayne is an e-book author

FORMER resident of Melbourne Wayne Woodall has turned his hand to writing in recent times.

Having initially written his book last year, Wayne tried to find a literary agent but without success. However, following a conversation with one of his Melbourne friends, successful local author Andy Cope, it was suggested that an e-book could be the solution –no agent or publisher required.

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A self-confessed technophobe, Wayne sought the assistance of his nephew, Adam Wilkinson, in his efforts to have his book published.

Adam, from Melbourne, has helped Wayne to create a blog, Facebook and Twitter profiles and have the book published through Amazon’s Kindle bookstore.

SPACIOUS 2 DBL BED FIRST FLOOR FLAT ITH GA CH, DOUBLE GLAZING, LARGE KITCHEN DINER WITH APPLIANES LOUNGE DBL BEDS, BATHROOM TO & ARKING.

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Titled ‘The Dog Blog’, the book is a lighthearted view of modern life, as seen through the eyes of the family pet Simon, an Old English Sheepdog with a difference. He has a wry take on life and is juggling his own insecurities with the ups and downs of family life. To enjoy a flavour of the book and for more information go to www.thedogblog.co.uk

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Wayne was one of eight children, four of whom still live in Melbourne –as does Wayne's mother, Doris. He attended Melbourne Junior School and Chellaston secondary before taking his A-levels at the Pingle sixth form in Swadlincote. He now lives with his wife in Mansfield.

It is the modern equivalent of self-publishing without the burden of being left with a garage full of unsold books.

MELBOURNE Young Wives church group was disbanded in 1975. But 36 years later they decided to hold a reunion lunch at Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms. With 14 ex-members turning up for the occasion, they enjoyed their get together and have now booked a date in May for everyone to meet again.

Record profit for Legion club

PRIOR to its AGM, Melbourne Royal British Legion Club has announced a record profit of £24,457 for the financial year, which ended in October.

The club, located on Derby Road, has seemingly bucked the national trend, with turnover also up by just over £30,000.

With pubs and clubs feeling the recession both locally and nationally and closing at an alarming rate, it's a local success story that the club committee and membership can be proud of.

Honorary Treasurer Andy Heafield said: "The Legion is first and foremost a members club but with our refurbishment of the Royal Suite, the venue has become the premier venue for parties, live music and fund-raising events in the area and has included annual dinners, indoor markets, auctions, birthday and anniversary celebrations.

"The staff and committee can all be proud of

Members of the Parish Council

Chairman Nigel Collyer 07831 540538

Vice Chairman Jane Carroll 863269

Burial Grounds Brendan Freeman 862799

Highways Wendy Earp 865019

Recreation & Amenities Andrew Jackson 702800

Leisure Centre Christopher Howard OBE 07795 484120

David Carpenter 864521

Cli Crawford 863445

Sarah Dunnicli 862162

Sheila Hicklin 865726

Rose Mini e 07795 362936

Robert Parker 07973 297404

Margaret Sharp 862471

David Smith 862699

Paul Willmore 863044

Norman Hill Clerk 703745

Leisure Centre 863522 Cemetery Robert Holman 07966 461416

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what they have achieved during the recession. It has been hard work, but we have managed to keep prices down with only one price increase in the past two years and our members and visitors have seen the benefit."

The club also sees itself as a part of the community and supports local organisations.

In 2011 it successfully operated the bar at the Melbourne Carnival and allowed several local charities free hire of its facilities.

This year the club will continue its sponsorship of the Melbourne Tug of War Club and Melbourne Town Cricket Club.

The bookings diary is already filling up for 2012 and includes the Melbourne Quiz which takes place over January, February and March while the popular Saturday Live, a free monthly cabaret night taking place on the first Saturday of each month, was re-launched in January.

Melbourne Parish Council

Quarterly Report - December 2011

The Parish Council welcomes Cllr Paul Willmore who lls a casual vacancy. We thank the other applicants, and hope they will consider standing as Councillors at the next elections.

The Council also welcomes Jim Bancroft as our new Village Lengthsman, and wishes Sue Stubbs well after her recent retirement as the Manager of the Leisure Centre.

The council continues to make progress against this year’s strategic projects, and is also currently considering the merits of investment in a replacement CCTV scheme for the village centre, which would have an impact on the local community charge of around £3 per household per year. All views are welcome and should be sent to either our Clerk or any member of the Council.

Plans for a Village Celebration to mark the Diamond Jubilee are well in hand, and everyone is invited to a free concert in Castle Square on the evening of Saturday 2nd June. More details will be advertised nearer the date. The Council thanks Kate Dumelow, Michael Sephton and Ian Statham for their continuing work on the organising committee.

The Parish Council is working closely with the Melbourne Community Centre group and SDDC to facilitate bene ts to our community by transferring the operation of the Leisure Centre to the group. We expect to conclude matters in the next few weeks.

Any member of the public is very welcome to raise issues at the Council’s regular monthly meeting, on the rst Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. Any immediate issues relating to street lighting, road defects, litter etc. can be reported to the helpline numbers (left).

Nigel Collyer - Chairman, Melbourne Parish Council

Pictured at the reunion are (l-r): Jean Brookbanks, Ros Bell, Ena Hunt, Edna Brame, Joy Astle, Jean Parker, Noreen Taylor and Margaret Poynton.

● Pictured at the Melbourne Civic Society coffee morning held at the Thomas Cook Memorial Hall are (from the left) Claire Sturges, Neil Wright (chairman), Barbara Simpson, Peggy Burns, Pam Adams (secretary) and Brian Budd.

Back to the Tudors

She gave a lively account of the customs, dress, food and habits of the time and also included gossip on the goings-on of some famous names such as the Earl of Essex. She punctuated her performance with tunes played on authentic medieval instruments such as the harp, bagpipes and crumhorn.

The evening finished on a festive note with the audience joining in carols of the period.

The next meeting of Melbourne Civic Society will be on Monday, January 30, at 7.30pm when Barrie Lings will give a talk on Derbyshire's Derwent.

Band draws in £730

MELBOURNE Town Band's Christmas Draw resulted in three winners, all from Melbourne, receiving an identical luxury Christmas hamper. They were Steve Kinzett, Melita Curry and John Tivey. The draw raised £730 for band funds.

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HELEN Chambers made a dramatic entrance at the Melbourne Civic Society meeting when she arrived in costume in the role of Elizabeth Mundy from the year 1590 to talk about a Tudor Christmas.

Owzat! Cricket shop an eye-catching hit

CATCH A Bargain was the cricket linked name for the Melbourne Town Cricket Club's charity shop –and hundreds of people decided to do just that in what was an inspired fund-raising idea for the club.

Permission to use the shop, situated in the former HSBC bank building, was granted to the club by owner John Blunt.

At the start of the five-week opening, Sheila Hicklin – whose idea the shop was – expressed her optimistic view that if the project raised £500 in total towards buying much-needed equipment for the club then it would be a great achievement. She, and the rest of the shop volunteers were greatly surprised when the takings reached that level in the first week of opening.

With all stock being donated, there was a steady supply of quality goods as the community of Melbourne gave their support, many people donating items and then buying goods while they were there.

When the doors closed for the Christmas break the shop had raised just over £3,000 for the club. The money will go to-

wards new equipment for the season including a boundary rope, new sight screens and possibly a new roller if the club is successful in its grant application to the English Cricket Board for 50 per cent of the costs.

IT'S TIME for Aston Village Panto once again and, planning not to disappoint, the Aston Players will be performing six shows of Mother Goose over two weekends in January at the Memorial Hall. Matinee performances will take place on Saturdays January 21 and 28 at 2.30pm and evening performances at 7.30pm with evening only performances on Sundays January 22 and 29 at 7.30pm.

Good school report

IT WAS good news for staff, parents and pupils of the small village school and nursery, Dame Catherine Harpur’s in Ticknall, when the outcome of a very successful Ofsted inspection was announced.

Three years ago the school and nursery had a mix of Good and Satisfactory results but a lot of hard work has meant that this most recent assessment resulted in a “Good” in all areas judgement.

Staff and parents are both pleased and proud to have achieved these improved results. Some highlights of the report which can be read in full on the school website are:

■ Pupils make good progress because of effective teaching and assessment, which meets the full range of pupil’s abilities.

■ The overall effectiveness of the Early Years Foundation Stage is good and children attain good outcomes.

■ Pupils are prepared well for transition to senior school and none has any worries about settling in. One pupil said that the school had given him the confidence he needs to be able to make friends and cope in new situations.

The school and nursery will hold an open day on Saturday, February 4, 10am-1pm Everyone is welcome.

Melbourne Community Centre Development Manager

The centre is to be transferred from local authority control to a community organisation. It has an established user base but needs an enthusiastic manager to develop the Centre to match the aspirations of the people of Melbourne. You will need to have appropriate quali cations, relevant experience, excellent skills in marketing and customer relationships and be physically active. Age is not important: a positive outlook and creative mentality are. For details send a short CV to: job.melbourne@btinternet.com

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Bill Shone Centre, Melbourne

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THE FUTUR

A MILLION pound boost for Melbour leisure facilities has been approved South Derbyshire District Council's nance and Management Committee. This is great news for the Melbou Sporting Partnership and is another hu successfully negotiated in its endeavou bring 21st century sporting facilities to village.

There was a little blip, a heart-stop moment when, during discussions, opp tion councillors requested that the deci be deferred to enable the scoring me nism to be reassessed, even though it been approved in December. It was cluded that deferment was not an op and the recommendations were acce following a vote.

The full scheme is estimated to £2.5million. SDDC has already applie Sport England for further fundin £50,000 and the MSP is now in a sound sition to apply to other funding source secure guarantees for the full project c New work on the site will not be evi for some time yet as the formal plan application is still to be approved. At earliest this could be February, altho the process could take up to 12 weeks.

However, the MSP can feel confiden conclude its objective to be incorporate

Your chance to learn all about the new

IT HAS been a long time since a group of local people made an offer to take over the running of the Bill Shone Leisure Centre.

That offer, in December 2008, was for a notfor-profit company which became the Melbourne Community Centre Ltd (MCCL), to take over the premises, and develop the site to create a fit-for-purpose 21st century facility for the whole community.

The scheme has proved controversial, many local residents being unhappy that a public asset should be taken over by a private group.

The process of making the plan a reality has taken a long time because of legal and financial considerations, and the complicated current arrangements of the property. It is presently leased from South Derbyshire District Council, with the leisure centre itself being run on a day-to day basis by the parish council, with financial backing from the district council.

The transfer of the lease has now been agreed by the district and parish councils, and it is believed that the actual transfer of full managerial control to MCCL will be March 1 – subject to final due diligence having been completed. Financial backing has also apparently been agreed by both councils.

Stuart Bachelor, who as part of his duties as an officer at the South Derbyshire District Council has been closely involved with the development for both the leisure centre and the Sporting Partnership, confirmed that the fiveyear lease to MCCL means that the leisure centre will remain in the public sector. He said: "If there are any problems with the success of the new venture, the district council will have the option to take back the lease."

The district council has approved an initial £125,000 for the scheme, and it is expected that the the new non-profit making company, with charitable status will be able to access funds from various funding sources.

WHO ARE THE DIRECTORS OF CHAIRMAN:PHILIP

DOBBY- with a pr bourne Festival, a leading light of Melb of the Friends of the Parish Church.

JOHN ROBINSON- Chartered Engineer BRIAN DOLLAMORE- successful busin PHILIP HEATH- SDDC Conservation an torian, and Melbourne born and bred. BLASE LAMBERT- a graduate of the L public/private partnerships. All of them live in Melbourne.

John Robinson, one of the steering group and a director of MCCL, spoke enthusiastically about future plans for the site. The directors welcomed and would encourage public involvement. A public meeting would be held at the Leisure Centre on February 6, at 7.30pm, so that the management structure of

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Plan of the proposed new-look Cockshut Lane Recreation Ground site.

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rne's d by Fiurne urdle urs to o the ping posiision echahad conption epted cost ed to g of d poes to osts. ident ning t the ough nt to ed as

a non-profit company limited by guarantee with charitable status.

The sports clubs that make up the MSP and the individuals that have worked to bring the process this far are to be congratulated for their continued commitment and achievements to date.

Parish councillor of 35 years Andrew Jackson and current chair of the Recreation Grounds Committee, was ecstatic: "This is something that I have hoped for

since I was first elected to the parish council and I am delighted that, with the coming together of the sports clubs to form the MSP, those hopes may now become a reality. Well done everyone."

District and County Councillor John Harrison, who has chaired the MSP for some time, was equally delighted saying:"This is the biggest investment by far that SDDC have made in Melbourne

and I am confident that it will be welcomed by the Melbourne community. It kickstarts the £2.5million project for sporting facilities on Cockshut Lane. Using cricket jargon, it's now heads down to secure the remaining £1.5m through national sporting associations and also any local donations would be particularly welcome and would be recognised in perpetuity when the clubhouse is completed."

w Melbourne community centre plans

F MCCL?

roven track record, founder of the Melbourne Community Care, and Chairman

r, successful businessman.

essman and leading churchman.

nd Heritage Officer, renowned local hisLSE, an accountant and a consultant on

the new not-for-profit company could be explained. In addition to the five members of the steering group, two directors would be nominated by the parish council, together with a representative from SDDC. Interested groups or individuals will be invited to volunteer to join the board.

Mr Robinson said: "We are very keen to ensure that that there is continuity in the running of the centre, and our aim is to ensure that we are open, transparent and totally inclusive, and no one will be cut out.

"But we do want to develop the site, and we do have a vision to take the centre forward, so that the centre becomes a first choice in the Melbourne area for social, business, and community events. At the moment the site is under-utilised – rarely above a 25% usage."

The finance to develop the centre, he believes, can be accessed from many bodies who offer assistance and grants – in the same way that sports bodies like Melbourne Sailing Club have recently accessed development funds.

The not-for-profit company structure is crucial in being able to tap into sources of funding. Amongst early initiatives will be a overhaul of the expensive to run heating systems, and investigations into the use of solar

panels, as pioneered by Melbourne Parish Church.

To drive forward the modernisation programme envisaged by the directors, a new development manager would be engaged.

Wi-Fi will be installed, opening up huge opportunities for leisure and business usage. The squash court will be modernised, and library hours could be extended, with the possible use of book clubs to help the manning.

One outstanding matter, and one of the first for involvement with the whole community, is what will the new leisure centre that will emerge over the next few years be branded? And what name should be given to it?

Mr Robinson and his colleaques have ambitious aspirations. "We want this fine building to become a classic community asset, a showcase for modernity in an ancient setting," he told Village Voice.

Ashby

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New look to the jam and Jerusalem set

DOES THE name ‘Women’s Institute’ bring a picture to mind of a group of 1950s well-to-do women, making jam while singing Jerusalem?

Yes, maybe 60 years ago, but the Melbourne WI of the 21st Century is a completely different group of women.

There are monthly meetings, which include a natter and a cuppa, news items and invited speakers to talk about their experiences. There is a thriving craft group, now into its fourth year, made up of WI members who share their skills with others and complete beginners who enjoy the group’s relaxed atmosphere.

The group recently held a Christmas wreath making evening and invited members of the public to attend. This included all materials and tuition followed by mince

■ A SILVER salver was donated to Melbourne Women’s Institute by the god daughter of member Dorothy Malone, who died in December 2010.

pies and mulled wine.

Melbourne WI has a walking group who meet once a month and explore our local country side.

A new group has recently started called the ‘eating experience group’ who visit different areas and cultures to learn about their customs and taste their wonderful dishes.

For the New Year there are plans to start a reading group and quiz group.

In 2011 some members enjoyed outings and trips, including a weekend in London, Chatsworth House and visits to the theatre.

Melbourne WI also came third in the Melbourne Carnival decorated floats and held a summer fair and jumble sales to help raise funds for members.

The aim is to have lots of fun, be part of

a national institution designed for women, be part of the community and, most importantly, make friends and be there for each other.

The age range varies from 20s up to the young at heart, and new people are always welcome.

If what they do sounds of interest to you why not go along to one of their meetings, which take place on the second Tuesday each month at St. Mary’s Church Hall, starting at 7.30pm.

You’re guaranteed a warm welcome. It’s nice to have a bit of ‘me’ time away from families and some of the members chill out after the meetings in the local.

For further information phone Mary on 862938.

Sue Davey, President Melbourne WI

Clare McNamara dedicated the Dorothy Malone commemorative trophy to the WI Member of the Year, with members voting for a person who has carried out exemplary service for the institute.

The first recipient of the salver is secretary Mary Trevena with members commenting that Mary is Melbourne WI, always helpful and cheerful, working extremely hard with quiet commitment to help hold the WI together.

From the left are WI President Sue Davy,

Mary Trevena, Jenny Starkie and Linda Lee.

Amnesty event proves a success

THE Greeting Cards campaign and Write for Rights held in Melbourne on December 10 on behalf of Amnesty International was well supported with a good number of people attending.

There were about 20 signatures on the multisigned cards and 22 letters, many handwritten, were written and addressed to Heads of State about particular people and Amnesty's concern for them.

With £65 raised in donations during the twohour session the cost of postage was easily covered and also went some way to covering the cost of the cards.

Local organiser Vicky Murray was very pleased with the success of the event saying: "I felt the

whole morning was impressive – especially as we only met for two hours. We do know that the greetings cards really do cheer and support people who are being detained, tortured and having their human rights abused. Many thanks to everyone who came."

■ The formal creation of the Melbourne Amnesty Group will take place on January 19. Officers will be elected and agreement made on the Amnesty campaigns to be adopted.

The meeting will be held in Church House, Church Square, Melbourne, from 7.30pm and anyone who has an interest will be most welcome to attend. Those attending are invited to take with them a small amount of food to share.

Changing face of Melbourne

THE MELBOURNE skyline changed in September 2010 when the project to re-roof Melbourne Hall began. Scaffolding was erected higher than the existing roof and capped with plastic sheeting to provide some protection from the elements –for the exposed rooms whilst the roofing was removed and for the team working on the project.

That skyline has changed once more with work on phase two of the re-roofing now complete. By Christmas all the scaffolding had been removed and the hall was back to normal with everything completed on target.

Looking magnificent, the roof with its new green tiles must now be as impressive a sight as it was when it was last refurbished 250 years ago.

Lord Ralph has been most generous in his praise for local contractor Alan Staley and his dedicated team, who have worked skillfully and diligently for 15 months to achieve so much.

"Alan and his team have done a marvellous job," said Lord Ralph.

The ASBC team of local men who undertook the works are Alan Staley, David Twells, foreman and stone mason, joiners Mik Mumford, Jim Stevenson, Robert Mumford and Ivan Smith, mason Steven Tyson, steel fabricator Brian Bewley and general labourers Bill Tivey, Neil Bullen and Ben Dalton.

Much of the work undertaken on the project was not originally part of the plan and some unusual techniques were needed to achieve the requirements. An example of this included suspending the whole upper section of roof to undertake necessary works to the lower levels and then lowering the roof back into position.

The team also had to suspend the attic room floors and second floor ceilings because with the existing construction, the floors / ceilings are suspended from the roof trusses. To undertake these works the team had to design and install additional structural scaffolding to carry the weight.

Mr Twells has reconstructed all but one of the main chimneys, his skill clearly shown by the delicate and detailed work to the main chimney stacks.

Mr Tyson also undertook works to the chimneys and most of the repair works to the internal parapet walls and coping stones, while Mr Mumford and his son, Robert, made and installed all the new dormer windows and fascia constructed using seasoned oak to the same specification as existing.

Other joinery works undertaken by Mr Smith and Mr Bullen included repairs to existing and replacement of structural timbers.

The complete process has been executed with great skill and the whole team has worked together with Mr Tivey and Mr Dalton providing vital assistance in all areas.

Throughout the project the team continued to work closely with Contract Administrators Fisher German, ASP Structural Engineers, English Heritage, Local Authority Conservation Officers and Natural England.

With the most obvious work now completed, the New Year will see ongoing activity at the hall with internal work and some low level external renovation.

Speaking about the project, Mr Staley said: "I and the whole team have felt very privileged to work on such a prestigious historic building, especially as we all live locally. This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us all and we are proud to be following in the footsteps of Joseph Pickford, of Derby, who previously repaired the roof 250 years ago. Pickford is still spoken highly of today.

"The whole team deserve to take credit for all their hard work and for their achievement. I would also like to thank Lord and Lady Ralph Kerr for their continued trust in us to undertake the works to their family home."

COMEDY NIGHT AT RBL

THE FIRST festival Comedy Night of 2012 will be held on January 27 at the Royal Suite, Melbourne RBL.

The evening will be compered by Tony Jamieson with Roger Monkhouse, Tom Crane and Jane Hill appearing on the bill.

Tickets at £7 are available from Frank Hughes, hughesy@globalnet.co.uk, or by calling 07733702075. Doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start.

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THAT WAS CHRISTMAS 2011 THAT WAS

A GROUP of musicians from Melbourne Town Band has visited Thulston each Christmas to play music and join together with a group of carol singing villagers to tour the village and raise funds for local charities. The group was joined this year by a donkey.

The chosen charity this time was the 'Frazer McDermott Foundation'.

Frazer died aged 20 last September having been born with a brain tumour. He was blind and underwent many operations throughout his life. He was a pupil at St Benedict’s School in the unit managed by Maggie Gorman, the wife of the 'Thulston Caroling Organiser', Terry Gorman.

The Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham specialises in the treatment of children with brain tumours and Frazer’s parents have started the charity to acquire a house near the hospital for parents to be able to stay while their children are being treated. The house will be called 'Frazer’s House'.

Frazer's parents received a cheque for £650. Terry thanked the members of Melbourne Town Band for their regular support and estimated that over the last 20-plus years this event has raised approximately £15,000 for local charities.

Roger James

THE COMMITTEE at the Senior Citizens Centre organised the annual Christmas dinner and party for members and over 40 guests took their place for the occasion. Members of the Melbourne Scout group waited on the guests and did a good job.

The most enjoyable after dinner entertainment was provided by the URC Choir and a Christmas cake was made by Barbara Robey.

Pictured (l to r) are Scouts Max Lowson, Harry Shaw and Thawi Miller with (seated) Dennis Smith (Methodist Minister), Robert Nelson and John Brookes.

■ CAROLS have been sung around Melbourne every Christmas Eve generally by the same group for almost 60 years and Christmas 2011 was no exception. The fine weather was a bonus encouraging a turn-out of 30-plus singers taking to the streets in the early evening.

Their fine efforts raised a magnificent £725 for the National Children’s Homes.

■ MELBOURNE Infant School's Christmas Fair proved a highly successful event with £600 raised.

The money will be used to buy new resources for the school. One of the parents donated the money made from her stall to Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.

OBITUARY

VIRGINIA SMITH

1946-2011

THE funeral of Virginia Smith was conducted by Reverend Sandra Chantry at Bretby Crematorium on December 7.

Virginia Stevens was born in Birmingham, the youngest of three children. Her father’s occupation with the Prudential brought the family to Ashby in 1953 and then to Station Road, Melbourne, in 1958.

Widely known as Ginnie, she attended Parkfields Cedars Grammar School in Derby and then always chose occupations that would enable her to be outdoors or on the open road. She met David Smith in Coleorton in the 1960s, a musician whose work often took him away.

She became a post lady, commencing at 5.30am, collecting and sorting mail at Melbourne Post Office and then delivering to Ticknall and outlying farms in all weathers, balancing her load on a moped. After falling off the moped a few times in bad weather, a van was supplied.

With a regular income and by this time engaged, Ginnie telephoned Dave to say: “The first thing is that I’ve dented the car; the second is that we’re getting married on September 28 and the vicar is booked,” which Dave describes as setting the picture for their long, slightly unconventional but successful marriage Ginnie loved animals. She always had a dog – usually one with attitude! She had several riding horses, geese, a goat, and ornamental fish in a pond. Early morning was her special time of the day –walking dogs in Calke Park.

With severe back problems, Ginnie retired at 49 years of age. She loved sitting in the garden on a swing, reading a book when her physical ability waned. She helped to decorate Ticknall village hall each year before Christmas and very much enjoyed her voluntary role with the Ticknall Lunch Club, assisting the elderly from their homes onto the Melbourne Community Care minibus and helping to serve lunches.

Her warmth, sensitivity and cheerful, fun-loving personality was appreciated by many.

Retirement also provided time for Ginnie to develop creatively. She joined Ticknall Art Group, then attended a course to make individual greetings cards and a jewellery making class where she took pleasure in meeting a number of younger people.

Family, friends and the villagers of Ticknall and Melbourne were stunned by Ginnie’s sudden death on return from her third cruise –a retirement discovery in which she delighted. It is thought that perhaps the last two years were the happiest of her life.

–Jean Grimley

THE WINNER of the Village Voice 2011 Christmas crossword was Mrs D M Adamson from Aston on Trent.

Hers was one of the 20-plus correct entries we received and she is pictured with her prize, a cheque for £25.

The solutions to the crossword are:

ACROSS: 1 Herod, 4 Scrooge, 8 Leo, 9 Swadling, 11 Blackfordby, 17 Robinsons, 18 Donisthorpe, 23 Lichfield, 27 Age, 28 Clothes.

DOWN: 1 Hill, 2 Rhomb, 3 DJs, 4 Stalk, 5 Rod, 6 Obi, 7 Egg, 10 Lor, 12 Abba’s, 13 Odour, 14 Des, 15 Yule, 16 Mead, 17 Ram, 19 ICH, 20 Heeds, 21 Erato, 22 Bean, 23 LAC, 24 Coo, 25 Fah, 26 Dog.

The charity quiz is under way again

MELBOURNE Charity Quiz 2012 got underway on Friday, January 13, at the new venue, the Royal Suite at the Royal British Legion Club.

The three opening night contests involving Sick Club Row vs. KNBC ‘A’, Village Idiots vs. Alan Sugar Babes, and Rest of the

World vs. Three Owls and a Mole provided an entertaining evening and set the scene for the rest of the quiz.

The remaining first round contests will be held on January 20, February 3 and February 17.

There will be no quiz on January 27 when

the next Festival Comedy Night will be taking place at the Royal Suite and also no quiz on February 10.

Progressing into round two from the first night’s contests are the following three teams: KNBC 'A', Alan Sugar Babes and Rest of the World.

Netball sessions are back

BACK 2 NETBALL sessions, which proved to be a very popular and well supported activity in 2011, are back in Melbourne.

Did you play netball at school or want to try it for the first time? Have you stopped playing and would love to start again?

Looking for a fun or a new activity? Back 2 Netball provides a gentle introduction to the sport for new players or those returning to the sport who are over 16.

Sessions are coach-led and cover basic skill development and court play.

The emphasis of these sessions is on learning new skills and having fun playing netball with friends.

Starting on Monday, January 16, at Melbourne Junior School, Packhorse Road, Melbourne, the sessions will run from 7pm to 8pm.

Costs are £3 per session and you can play every week or when you can make it on a pay as you play basis.

THIS PHOTOGRAPH is of Melbourne Dynamo Football Club taken about 50 years ago. Can anyone fix the date more

Back row (1 to r) Bill Kirk (Manager); Bill Bradford; unknown; Mick Baines; Mick Robey; unknown; unknown; unknown; unknown; Ray Kirk.

Front row: Gordon Foddy; Roy Smith; Mick English; Sam Bradford; unknown; Les Earp; Barry Whyatt.

Melbourne sixth at halfway stage

THE start of December saw the arrival of local rivals Belper at the Melbourne Rugby Club Cockshut Lane ground. The match ball was sponsored by SP Photographics.

Belper chose to play into the wind and controlled the ball well for the first five minutes. However, once Melbourne got hold of it the scoring started. First Jake Watts finished off a fine move with a try under the posts. Euan Holden converted. Melbourne then controlled the next 20 minutes without scoring, several chances going begging. Holden kicked a penalty after 28 minutes, and Matt Smith charged down a kick for a score.

Jack Fisher got on the scoresheet after a line out move, with good play from Ben Burchell. Holden converted. Andy Gates ran strongly all game.

Belper had one visit into the Melbourne 22, and scored a try. Holden finished off with two penalties to make the half-time score 28-5.

Playing into the wind, Melbourne conceded an early try, but every visit into the Belper 22 brought them a score. First Holden scored an unconverted try in the corner following a period of sustained pressure. Belper gave away a lot of penalties and Holden converted two.

Belper scored another try before Matt Smith got his second from a neat short line out with some interplay from Rob Hollingsworth. Holden kicked a final penalty before Belper completed the scoring with a try to make the final score 44-25.

Next up saw Melbourne travel to Dronfield for a game against the league leaders. With a much changed side, Melbourne put in a good performance but

ended up losing 12-37. Tries came from Will Judge and Hollingsworth, with Holden converting.

The final league game of the year saw the arrival of Grimsby at Cockshut Lane. Melbourne welcomed back Ash Stringer after half a season at Derby. In probably the best performance of the season, Melbourne were clinical, scoring seven tries.

Stringer got a hat-trick, Dale Bilson a brace, and there were scores for Jacob Watts and Judge, with Holden converting three. Melbourne defended their line well in the second half, only conceding a converted try, to finish 41-7 winners.

Melbourne finished the first half of the season in sixth place with five wins out of 11.

Melbourne Seconds played Ashbourne in the Pennant, losing 44-19 with two tries each from Tom Howard and Ben Wiggan with two conversions from Jack Fisher. A trip to Bakewell saw Melbourne win 29-24 with tries from Jordan Sparkes (two), Andy Watts, Will Weeds and Steve Bell. Dean Sylvester converted two.

Melbourne RFC would like to thank Paul Macer of Kite consultancy, The Lamb Inn and Picture of Health gym for sponsoring match balls for early season games.

KINGS NEWTON Bowls Club members Rob Philipson and Henry Hastings beat Ian Jardine and Bernard Raine in a closely fought final in the club's annual Boxing Day doubles knockout competition.

The morning event is always well supported and, with fine weather, the latest was no exception.

It is believed, however, that the main attraction is the traditional full English breakfast cobs prepared by Dave Lyons which went down a treat as usual.

MELBOURNE RFC U13s continued their impressive form by adding Hinckley –the current Leicester Tigers ‘Land Rover Cup’ winners –to their list of notable scalps this season.

Melbourne powered into an early lead when prolific winger Conor Hooper danced through a hesitant defence and Jack Bull converted for a 7-0 lead. Clever tactical kicking and a great chase by Henry Kaczmarczyk pushed Hinckley back and from the resulting scrum Jack Bull pounced for a superb individual score. Joe Travers added the extras. It was 14-0 and Hinckley hardly knew what had hit them. Hinckley upped their game and profited from a lapse of concentration in defence to score.

Melbourne's powerful pack were turning over possession with Jack Brough in inspired form. Ben Goddard cleverly recognised an opportunity and put Joe Nalty away, and the ever industrious Josh Toplis was again the first in support to plop over to make it 19-5.

Hinckley spent the majority of the second half encamped in Melbourne's half without really threatening the line. Tackles came thick and fast and Melbourne were pinned back by Hinckley’s forwards. Having absorbed this pressure the Chariots advanced and Conor Hooper bought himself another try.

With the game result decided changes were made, and Joe Nalty profited for a brace of tries, Baden Ramage provided the intelligent linkage for the final team try of real quality that had Ryan Bowers of Leicester Tigers [his younger brother played for Hinckley] applauding.

Final result was 34-5.

There were many excellent performances with James Askew, Patrick Arana, Josh Toplis and Jack Brough at the forefront but Baden Ramage’s competitiveness, constant workrate and clever link play deservedly saw him as the performer of the day.

U13s take yet another notable scalp

Cricket youngsters net £1,000 grant

YOUNGSTERS in Melbourne will enjoy better coaching facilities at the town’s cricket club thanks to a £1,000 grant.

Andrew Heafield, cricket development manager, said: “Thanks to the Burton Breweries Charitable Trust’s £1,000 grant, we’ve been able to complete the £22,000 development of a two-lane cricket net that was a great boon to our coaching sessions last summer.”

Stephen Oliver, presenting the cheque on behalf of the Breweries Charitable trust, said: “We’re delighted to be support-

ing the young people at Melbourne Town Cricket Club, helping them to enjoy competitive cricket at this friendly and successful club.”

Pictured at the presentation are (back row l-r): Andy Heafield, James Heafield, junior coach, Matt Heafield, junior coach, and Jim Jenkinson, director of junior coaching; (front row): Darius Fern, Tom Partington, Ben Gotheridge, Sam Adcock, Stephen Oliver, Tel Potts, Matthew Gotheridge, Morgan Dacre and Oliver Wiles.

Dynamos’ 9-0 year-end stunner

MELBOURNE Dynamos' first team continued their good form right up to the end of 2011 with a superb month of December which included two games against Allenton United, the team that did the treble last season.

Melbourne began at home to Allenton, who secured a last minute equaliser. Dynamos gave a good account of themselves with Adam Ross, Matt Brian and Paul Swallow earning them a well deserved point. The following week Melbourne played the same opponents – this time away

in the Challenge Cup. Front two Matt Brain and Paul Swallow again got on the scoresheet as Dynamos triumphed 2-1 to earn a quarter-final spot. They ended 2011 with a stunning 9-0 home win in the league against bottom team Sandiacre Town. Brain hit four goals along with a double from leading goalscorer Swallow and strikes by Adam Ross, Danny Guild and Dave Brough.

MELBOURNE Dynamos Reserves continued their good league form in December, although they did lose in the Junior Cup.

They began with a comfortable 5-1 away to Punjab Reserves with Adam Dolman hitting a rare hat-trick along with goals from Sam Taylor and Farrell Scott. This was followed by a brilliant 3-2 away win against a physical Mackwoth St Francis side.

The reserves had to contend with the sending off of their keeper Ben Newton, but his replacement was centre forward Farrell Scott, who made some wonderful saves. Goals from Jack Havron (2) and Jack Tivey saw Melbourne stay in second place in Division 2, a point behind leaders Allenton United Reserves.

They ended the month with that Junior Cup defeat at home to a strong Rowsley Reserves with Jack Tivey getting the consolation in a 41 loss.

TICKNALL Rangers had a difficult month with injuries and unavaliability, losing their unbeaten league record and dropping to fourth in the table.

A hard fought 3-3 draw away to a strong Marlborough Rovers side came thanks to a Matt Archer penalty, a Matt Brian free kick and a James Wetton header.

A good 2-1 away win to Monksbridge Reserves followed thanks to a brace from leading scorer Matt Archer. This was as good as it got for Ticknall as two defeats followed with a 4-0 away loss at Shobnall Rovers and a 4-1 home defeat to AFC Stapenhill, although the latter game could have gone either way with the luck going against Rangers. An Ian Hall header was their only consolation.

MELBOURNE BlueBell found some better form in December and began with a 4-2 win against Shadows with Tristam (2), Havron with a penalty and Stevenson getting the all-important goals.

This was followed by a 2-2 draw versus Arboretum with Tristam and Havron (penalty) again the scorers. The Bell ended the month continuing their unbeaten run with two 1-1 home draws, the first against Darley Abbey with Tristam getting the goal and an own goal against Field Lane Reserves.

AFC MELBOURNE continue to struggle, losing three times in December, 1-0 at home to Shardlow Reserves, 5-0 at AFC Kimberley and 1-0 to Long Eaton Magpies.