CHEERS ... the four men who started the Village Voice back in 1992 (l-r) David Bellis, Andrew Jackson, Ron Ford and Mick Robey.
21 YEARS SERVING THE PEOPLE OF MELBOURNE From humble beginnings to a thriving community newspaper VILLAGE VOICE – truly local and proudly independent – is celebrating its 21st year of publication this year. It is by far the longest-serving paper in Melbourne’s history. Before Village Voice came out in December 1992, Melbourne had tried over nearly 150 years to establish its own newspaper. The first, a news sheet called “Mechanics Organ”, was produced on October 1, 1846, by a group of local people who formed the Melbourne Mechanics Institute. It was seven years before the institute published again - “The Melbourne Times” (2p) - to report the opening of the Potter Street Athenaeum. It promised more but didn’t deliver. Another 129 years passed before a Melbourne printer made a fresh attempt with “The Mercury” in 1982. Unfortunately, that folded on January 17, 1986, with issue 101. The idea for a new try for a newspaper for Melbourne came from a meeting of local residents David Bellis – a business executive and secretary of some local clubs – with Melbourne parish councillors Andrew Jackson and Mick Robey. After the meeting, Andrew Jackson by chance met Ron Ford, back home at Weston after years in newspaper editing and management in Sydney. He
FIRST EDITION ... how the Village Voice made its debut in December 1992.
INSIDE: ● The team that provides your monthly newspaper ● How we reported the changing face of Melbourne ● Businesses that have been with us from day one
joined the team, and planning for Village Voice got underway. Newspaper production by then had advanced from many years of labour intensive hot metal to an early version of today’s desktop publishing. Village Voice began with mostly hand-written copy, which was typed and scanned into a computer at the home office of a Derby journalist. Often during long hours, strips of single-column printed stories and separate headlines were cut up and pasted on thin cardboard shaped like newspaper pages. These boards were rushed to Chesterfield to be processed into plates for printing by the Derbyshire Times. The finished 16-page newspaper was – and is now – delivered to every house in our area by a team of mostly voluntary walkers. In a few months, Village Voice increased its number of pages and was able to switch production to a modern processing system at Coalville. Later it invested in its own desktop publishing technology and took on part-time design and editing professionals. The paper advanced into full colour photos in mid-2000 and contracted printing to the Derby Evening Telegraph. These were dramatic improvements, helped by continuing support of our advertisers, who welcomed the option of colour. The paper’s appearance reached its peak in more recent years, with production and advertising presentation handled by a local Melbourne business, Anthony Freeman’s Origin Design. Anthony’s professionalism works admirably alongside the editorial subbing and layout skills of David Finn, who has been associated with the Village Voice since 1993. Village Voice has developed strong and dedicated editorial and advertising teams. It strives to live up to its name with fair, accurate and readable cover of local issues and pictures of events throughout our area. We proudly believe its professional news presentation is equal to any equivalent free paper in the country. And we gratefully acknowledge the support we have had over the years from the community.
FOUR-PAGE SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF THE VILLAGE VOICE
ii Village Voice 21st Anniversary - January 2014
PAGES THAT SHOW HOW THE VILLAGE ON THE JOBS FRONT
ON THE UPS AND THE DO
FEBRUARY 1993 ... no Carnival capers.
SEPTEMBER 2005 ... the start of something big.
MARCH 2011 ... the end of so
BUSINESSES WHICH WERE W
T t l t f
DECEMBER 1997 ... and the impact of the Fairystep Shoes closure
Harold Heath of T H Heath (Contracts) Ltd.
Alan Gale, motor repairs.
John Coton, Ward Ironmongers.
w t e
JANUARY 1999 ... market gardening’s double whammy.
Richard Heath, Melbourne RBL.
Dougie Marr, the White Swan.
Alan and Julie Townsend, picture framers.
Paul Gregory, formerly Hair by Him.
Vicky Bosworth, Vicky’s Hairdressin
Andy Williams, Melbourne Tackle & Gun.
Nic Ser
JULY 2000 ... and more sole-searching.
ON THE WEATHER FRONT
Alex Slater, Sid Gregson and Jo Slater, the Welcome Cafe.
JANUARY 2002 ... get yer skates on time on the Pool.
Margaret Wheatley, Melbourne News.
Guy Judge, Melbourne Garage.
THERE are also businesses which advertised in the first edition and have changed ownership since 1992 but still operate as a business in the district
under the same or a different name Advertisers who were in our first e tion but have changed ownership ar
Village Voice 21st Anniversary - January 2014 iii
VOICE HAS KEPT READERS INFORMED
OWNS
omething big.
ON THE CAMPAIGN FRONT
MAY 1995 ... May Warren opens new health centre in Penn Lane.
FEBRUARY 2000 ... fight to save the post office.
WITH US AT THE VERY START
THE Village Voice thanks and congratulates those businesses that advertised in the first edition. These businesses were vital in providing the support for the first edition.
ng.
ON THE BUSES ...
Roger Lucas, Melbourne RFC.
AUGUST 1994 ... last of the Trent Buses in Melbourne.
David Jackson and Ellie French, Doves Garages.
ck Parkinson, Shenpar Garage rvices.
e. edire:
Michael Hubbard, Root Hairdressers.
SEPTEMBER 1998 ... noisy neighbours.
Aidan Melen, Melen’s Taxis.
Mark Earp, Staunton Harold Nurseries.
John Smith, coal merchant.
Lynn Whiting, Lynn’s Salon.
SEPTEMBER 2008 ... the headline says it all.
ON THE MILLENNIUM
Haynes Furnishers.
Tim Blatch, Blatch’s TV & Electrical.
John Mayers, LM Blast Cleaners.
● Print Shop ● Coach House ● Geo Heath, Builders ● Pool Cottage ● The Packhorse ● H Pipes, Solicitors ● Lamb Inn ● Alma Inn ● Courtyard Beauty Salon Quill International Group.
JANUARY 2000 ... and we celebrate with a special edition.
iv Village Voice 21st Anniversary - January 2014
MEET THE VILLAGE VOICE TEAM
THE CLASS OF 2013 ... the people who bring the Village Voice to life every month. Front row (l-r): Anthony Freeman (production), Andrew Jackson (director), David Finn (editorial production), David Bellis, Tom Mills, Frank Hughes (all editorial). Back row: Peter Clough, Tina Baker, Simon Hickie (all photographers), Jean Grimley (production), Nicola Mortimer (advertising), Lucy Stephens (editorial), Shawn Lilley and Mick Robey (distribution). Inset: Ron Ford (director).
■ WITH the development of electronic communication, producing the Village Voice is rather like a return to home industry. The team members carry out their respective roles independently at home. Data is transferred to and fro electronically, the only meeting together in an office environment being to finalise the layout and content of the paper before it is despatched electronically to the printers.
My, how it has grown! IN its early days the Village Voice produced approximately 2,300 copies for distribution within Melbourne and its immediate environs. It now produces 5,750 copies to cater for an increased circulation, encompassing all the local villages. With the first few editions, copies were even sent to the Cook Islands. The practice of sending copies throughout the United Kingdom and worldwide continues. The Village Voice maintains a listing of names and addresses of readers who wish to continue to receive copies and retain a connection with Melbourne, although they have relocated. Residents also pass on their own copies to friends and families who have left the area. With the development of the internet, enthusiasts can now view the Village Voice online wherever they may be worldwide and order copies of photographs.
The ever-changing scene that is Melbourne and district WHAT a challenging 21 years the Village Voice has witnessed for Melbourne and the encircling villages. We have reported on huge changes – the effective end of manufacturing and the decline in the market gardening industry in the town, as well as the growth of the airport and the Donington Park racetrack which have made Melbourne over time into a commuting town. People who had lived and worked in the town saw the end of the shop round the corner, a symbol of Melbourne's close and admirable localism. But folk increasingly welcomed motor cars, which caused the congestion in the town but also brought the freedom to commute to new work in Derby and beyond. We now have our own supermarket which, at a public meeting convened to oppose the project, was seen as a venture that "would destroy the Melbourne we have known for 100 years". But it hasn't destroyed the town, it has become absorbed as part of the landscape. In all the many ups and downs of the British economy over the last 20 years, we have thankfully been spared the high unemployment that afflicted so many. Property boomed, bringing new people, and it is to the credit of the residents who were born in the town that newcomers embraced the old traditions – such as the Carnival – and the close community spirit that is the hallmark of the area. That spirit was so well illustrated by stout defence and the vigorous renaissance of Dame Catherine's in Ticknall, closed by the County Council, but now a lively self-supporting community school. But the newcomers have injected fresh enthusiasm and new vigour into the social life of the town, epitomised by
IN OUR first edition we wrote that it "had been made possible by the generous support of local businesses … and in turn we urge our readers to support their local shops and businesses". Preparing for our first edition in 1992, we were overwhelmed by the goodwill in Melbourne for a truly local paper of its own. That goodwill has continued to support Melbourne and district's very own paper, and we still are overwhelmed by the support and loyalty of our readers, advertisers, many contributors and all the many other people who have helped in the continued success of your local paper. Long may we continue to enjoy that support and loyalty. As we said in 1992, "there is something for everyone in Melbourne, and we are proud to be a part of it".
the exhilaratingly successful Festival, which draws visitors from far and wide to marvel at the historic architectural splendour of the town. The Carnival has enjoyed a new lease of life and is a great symbol of all that is good and true in our town. The Town Band was very successfully revived in the 90s, and the older Operatic Society and the Male Voice Choir live and prosper alongside the splendid new choir, A Choir’d Taste. The shops seem to prosper, and there is renewed vigour in the area, demonstrated so well recently by the fierce defence for our fire station. To provide better leisure facilities, there are ambitious plans for new playing fields while a totally renovated leisure centre is being transformed into the new Assembly Rooms, both projects likely to set the pattern for a modernised town for the new century.
The end of the old century saw Dr. Brendan Freeman's dream on which he had been working for 20 years or more, come to fruition. The new modern Health Centre in Penn Lane was a major step forward for the town and a huge improvement, compared to the previous poor facilities. The last 20 years have seen the development of Rugby as a major club, with an enviable record for fostering a love of the game amongst both boys and girls. The celebration of the 150th anniversary of Melbourne Town Cricket Club was a great event. Local groups like Ticknall Garden Club have a national reputation, and we have seen the blossoming of Chellaston Academy as a centre of educational excellence, sending a steady stream of our brightest and best to Oxbridge, fed by first rate primary schools. We have also seen the development – the first one in South Derbyshire – of a well dressing celebration, at Aston on Trent. One could go on … The remarkable thing is that change has been a challenge coped with and overcome, opportunities have been grabbed, and there is no doubt Melbourne and the villages around are great places to live in, great places to bring up families, and even great places to grow old in. There are challenges, of course, but Melbourne is a strong resilient community that will undoubtedly meet the challenges of the future with the same strength of purpose that so successfully met those of the past. We hope the Village Voice will be carried on for another 21 years, providing news, and a mirror of the locality. In the last 21 years we have printed in the region of 20,000 stories and thousands of pictures, and we are hoping to continue having the support and confidence of our local communities.
Village Voice No 254 January 2014
Melbourne & District
■ THE ‘Angry Mob’ of smiling young faces, children from Melbourne schools, went to the town’s Fire Station for the Have Your Say consultation event. It was part of the campaign to save the station, one of those threat in the latest round of cuts. Joy Smith, Deputy Chief Executive of the Strategic Leadership Team, was in attendance. Full story on Page 7.
In a press release presented at its January meeting, the council said that its “commitment to the Sporting Partnership and the residents of Melbourne to provide new sports facilities has meant that it has been necessary to increase the parish precept by what may at first appear to be the large amount”. The news of this increase will come as a shock to Melbourne residents even though council chair, Cllr Jane Carroll, said that the actual increase is only a modest 8p a week for a Band D household.
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“From the money raised we will be able to provide £5,000 to fulfil our ongoing commitment to the exciting development of the Melbourne Sporting Partnership and to continue to increase services provided to parishioners,” Cllr Carroll said. “We understand that the headline percentage figure is a shock, particularly in the current economic climate, but the decision to increase the precept was not one that was taken without a significant amount of thought, research and debate.” The press release points out that Melbourne Parish currently has one of the lowest precepts in the district; of the 31 parishes, only six have one lower; 12
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parish precepts are more than double that of Melbourne. and yet the council provides more services than the majority of those parishes with a higher precept. “To continue to provide these services, which include Christmas lighting, hanging baskets, CCTV, care of the cemetery, the village lengthsman, the current sports facilities, tree management, provision of new bins, vital repairs to the market place shelter, the ongoing costs associated with the public lavatories and much more, it is necessary to make this increase.” Cllr Carroll said: “Melbourne Parish Councillors are committed to maintaining services and where possible increasing that level of service, all during times
when the district and county councils are making stringent cuts in their services – services which the parish council may have to deliver in the future. “Melbourne Parish Council decision on the precept will ensure that the council is in a position to continue to deliver and secure services now and into the future.” Cllr John Harrison, in his capacity as chairman of the Sporting Partnership, said: " We are very grateful for any help that the council grants the Melbourne Sporting Partnership, but at the moment I do not know the details of what has been offered, and therefore I cannot make any comment.”
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■ MELBOURNE Town Training Band awards were made at the annual Patrons' Concert. They were: President’s Cup 2013 for Most Improved Player - Oliver Dawson; the Gerry Price Musical Director’s Award Emily Swan; the Annual Achiever’s Award for Bands Person of the Year - Sam Jenkinson. The band is pictured with Musical Director Karen Worrall
(front row centre). Melbourne Town Band also presented cheques to representatives of two charities from monies raised at the 'Blast of Brass III' outdoor concert in July. Mrs Gay Evans received a cheque for £500 on behalf of Treetops Hospice and Andy Boardman, the same amount for The Melbourne Poppy Appeal.
AT the Melbourne Town Band Patrons’ Concert held in December, Brendan O’Neill announced his resignation as director of music. His resignation is not immediate but will take place following a special final concert during the summer months at which a new director will hopefully be introduced. Brendan (pictured) became DM in early 2006 and agrees that ‘musically’ he has probably been the most controversial DM in the band’s history. However, he explained that it is for personal reasons and time constraints that he reluctantly
be directed towards expanding his own business teaching music and the setting up of a professional concert band in Burton called ‘The Rathovan Orchestra’, having already liaised with fellow music teachers and musicians within Staffordshire. Through his involvement with the Nottinghamshire Band of the Royal Engineers (V) a promotion within the Army is also on cards, allowing him the opportunity to become director of music of a band within the forces. Brendan will retain very close ties with MTB. He intends
steps down from the role. During 2014 his priorities as a self-employed musician will
MELBOURNE Festival Comedy returns to Melbourne on January 31 for the first new show of the year. Top billing goes to Stephen Grant, a Brighton-based comedian who gained notoriety when his ex-wife sought to stop him using material about her following their divorce. A two-year court battle ended in 2010 with him winning the lawsuit and hitting the headlines in several national newspapers. He is a writer, radio presenter and has two top selling DVDs. Supporting is Howard Read, who is famous on TV for his CBBC programme Little Howard’s Big Question. He has also appeared in the Royal Variety Performance. With a variety of characters to choose from it is difficult to know which one will turn up in Melbourne. Nicky Wilkinson and compere Rhys Matthewson complete the line-up. Proceeds from the event support the Festival.
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to take a more active role arranging music for the Training Band, become a playing member of MTB and has offered his services as assistant to the new musical director. At the concert MTB chairman Dale Jackson thanked Brendan for his commitment to the continual improvement of the playing abilities of MTB members. Dale said: “Though not without a struggle, Brendan has managed to get the very best out of us. “The band today bears no resemblance musically to the band of nearly eight years ago!”
RESIDENTS of Derbyshire are invited to participate in yet another consultation, this time for the Police and Crime Commissioner’s budget. Alan Charles is seeking the views of residents before he finalises his police precept for 2014-15 and presents it to the Police and Crime Panel for consideration at the end of January. He is responsible for setting the budget for Derbyshire Police as well as the local police precept – the part of Council Tax that goes to funding the police service, making Crime Reduction Grants and running the Commissioner’s office. The Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan outlines the policing objectives for Derbyshire. Coupled with the results of public consultations throughout the year and an annual risk and threat process, resources are allocated to areas of greatest need. The Police and Crime Commissioner advises that while the public of Derbyshire has seen 10 years of crime reduction, new challenges are emerging – in particular cybercrime, child sexual exploitation and the needs of new communities. He says that in order to meet these challenges and continue to recruit police officers, Derbyshire Constabulary has to plan on the basis of continuing cuts in Government grant. This can only mean greater contributions from the public. By following the link http://www.derbyshire-pcc.gov.uk/YourViews/Budget-Consultation-2014-15.aspx you can give your views on the budget for policing Derbyshire so that the PCC’s decisions will reflect your priorities.
By LUCY STEPHENS THE season to be jolly may be officially over, but Melbourne shopkeepers have good reason to carry on celebrating. Local shops have reported a “brilliant Christmas” with plenty of loyal shoppers, along with newcomers to Melbourne, busily staying local to stock up for the festive season. The success on Melbourne’s high street comes in stark contrast to the festive picture for many national retailers - such as clothes giant Debenhams – which have reported a sharp drop in sales as people left it later than usual to do their Christmas shopping in the hope of securing lastminute bargains. But Melbourne’s high quality independ-
ent shops have, it seems, escaped the general British High Street Christmas gloom. Forteys sweet shop and café on Market Place notched up another record Christmas with business going so well they have extended their coffee shop to the second floor. Laura Fortey, who owns the business with husband Richard, said: “We had growth on last year with lots of new people coming through. We opened on Christmas Eve and that was one of our best days. “Lots of people are talking about Melbourne. There are no empty shops here, as opposed to the High Street which has got a big pile of unused shops. “Here it’s all independent and they are all specialised and that’s why it’s such a nice place to be.” Many of Melbourne’s shopkeepers agreed that they had seen some new faces amongst
local shoppers, but felt it was too early to say whether more people were being attracted to the village because of the arrival of new businesses here. There was also speculation that a more buoyant local housing market had led to people moving to the village, which may have resulted in an increase in trade. But one thing is certain: Melbourne thrives on its individual shops which can’t be found elsewhere, and local people provide invaluable support. As one shopkeeper put it: “I think it (Christmas) has been fabulous. I think people supported local businesses. It was so busy, it was great.” Jodie Turton, owner of Jodie’s Deli on Derby Road, agreed: “The best thing about Melbourne is that people want to keep it local.”
Village Voice January 2014 3
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Tickets for all events call 01332 863522 or call into Forteys in Melbourne Market Place EARLY WARNING - The Old School Rocks, Thursday April 3rd to Saturday 5th. Three nights of great music for every taste at our first Music Festival. Details in the next issue. ■ A FUND, started at the Melbourne British Legion Club, to raise money to purchase the new memorial bench for trooper Danny Blinco raised more than was required to pay for it. This excess has been donated by the Blinco family to be shared between the Parish Church, Melbourne Town Band and the British Legion Club. Pictured at the presentation of cheques in the Legion Club are (l-r): Nina Blinco, Brendan O’Neil, Dave Worrall, Sheila Hicklin, Yvonne Young, Carl Foster (colleague of trooper Blinco), Brian Blinco and Simon Gotheridge.
IN January 2013 two of Pete Newbury’s Dutch skiing friends said that they were going to cycle from Holland to Austria. Pete asked, “Can I come?” The ride would be about 800 kilometres (500 miles). Pete’s preparations were minimal. He bought a new bike, fitted panniers and formulated a daily routine which suited him. A good breakfast, liquid (no alcohol) during the ride and no real food or beer until the evening. His only concern was saddle soreness, thinking that four to six hours a day cycling was bound to be a bit of a problem. They followed a route travelled by a Dutchman called Reitsma and within three kilometres of getting off the train they were lost. The first lesson: read the map properly, or waste a load of energy. Pete confirmed that Holland is flat. Germany isn’t. The first few days were beautiful. They reached Remagen, stopped at Worms under the Dom where Martin Luther defended his stand against corruption in the Church. Then on to Speyer with its great cathedral and crossed the Rhine towards the Black Forest. On to Sigmaringen and Oberteurungen. Two days later, Pete and Bas rode the last five miles, a climb of over 2000 feet up to Gargellen. They’d done it, 474 miles in the saddle. The final score was a sponsorship of about £3,000, and Peter Newbury 1, Saddle soreness 0.
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THERE was a real abundance of fruit and berries in 2013 and there were a lot still on the trees until recently. Between Christmas and New Year we suddenly had fieldfares on some hawthorn trees around the farmstead and all the berries were stripped off, although a lot of them were on the ground. Fieldfares are a member of the thrush family who spend a short time with us in our winter, but breed in Scandinavia and the Arctic regions. Redwings are similar and can easily be mistaken for fieldfares and they have the same range. With the abundance of food this year we have not had problems with pigeons as they are still eating acorns and beech mast, but the last few days have seen a few flocks on some of our oilseed rape. Few birds are around the farmstead in general but that could soon change with some harsher weather. A week of hard frost would be welcome at the moment to allow us onto the
fields without making a load of mess. A sustained period of rain has caused a lot of problems, particularly in the south east of the country which usually escapes lightly. Flooded houses and no electricity supply along with cancelled rail services have made life difficult for people who are not used to it. Anywhere north of Derbyshire is used to this sort of weather and calamities and takes it in its stride, but I hope the seat of government will be a little more helpful and sympathetic to everyone else after suffering themselves. I must admit my surprise as up until today the River Trent has managed to keep within its banks quite well, which suggests its catchment area has not had so much rain. We have floodland which has only been sown with wheat in the last couple of months and to have this flooded before it germinated would not be good news. Once the plants have emerged it will survive some water on it, so let’s hope our local drought of sorts continues.
Winter time at Calke
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 Tuesday 14 January
Limeyardsology
Wednesday 29 January, 12 noon
Cook like a Calke chef
Rachel Hall, Carl Hawke & Peter Webb Join our panel of experts delving into the archaeology, biology and geology of the Limeyards, a once industrial landscape reclaimed by nature.
Impress your friends and family after this demonstration with Calke’s Head Chef. You’ll learn the tricks of the trade to make delicious canapés and party show-stoppers.
Tim’s tales Join Ranger Tim for 30 years of
Chef’s winter warmer, pudding perfection
Thursday 16 January
anecdotes from the Calke estate.
Friday 24 January, 12 noon
Taster Lunch – Ways with venison
Enjoy a 3 course venison lunch freshly prepared by the Calke chefs. Try a variety of cuts and cooking methods. £25
Tuesday 28 January
Entomologist or eccentric?
Alison Thornhill Was Sir Vauncey Harpur-Crewe merely an avid collector of insects or was he truly interested in Natural history? This talk will look at his collections, some of the stories behind his collecting and explore his motivations for gathering so many specimens. Do any of the species he collected at Calke still occur in the park today? Let’s find out.
Thursday 30 January
Join Calke’s head chef as he demonstrates some warming winter puddings that you can try at home.
Monday 10 February
The time travelling tourist
Jo Carter Travel through the bygone age of holidays from the Grandest of Tours to the ‘Kiss me quick hat’ and everything in-between, take a trip down memory lane and beyond.
All start at 10.45am and cost £20 per person including a 2 course lunch unless otherwise stated. Booking is required for all of these events. Please telephone 01332 695310 to book your tickets.
Winter Opening 2014 Calke Park and National Nature Reserve, daily 7.30am - 7.30pm (dusk if earlier, closed 25 December) Restaurant and shop, daily 10am - 4pm (closed 25 December) The gardens will reopen on the 15 February and the house will open on the 22 February. 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
www.facebook.com/NTCalkeAbbey @NTCalkeAbbey
■ HAROLD Heath is pictured planting an English oak tree outside his home at Lount. The tree which had been presented to him by Kay Stevens, the current chair, was in recognition of his 13 years as the chairman of Staunton Harold Parish Meeting. A brass plaque engraved ‘Harold Heath Chair Staunton Harold Parish Meeting 2000 – 2013’ was also presented. Attending the planting alongside Harold and Kay were his son Andrew and daughter Alison with their families, wife Mary and parishioners Barry Bradford, Julia, Alan and Julia Peters with John and Jackie Blunt.
THE Ticknall Garden Club programme for January through to July has been confirmed. Meetings are held on Tuesdays at Ticknall Village Hall starting on January 14 with Question Time (Jeff Bates and chums). The programme then reads: February 11, Great Dixter: Past, Present and Future (Fergus Garrett). This is a ticketed event. March 11, Advice from Justin, market trader and owner of Leese Hill Nurseries, plus plants for sale. April 8, Five Derbyshire Landscapes with Philip Heath. May 13, Fabulous Foliage with Ian Cooke, ex-lecturer at Nottingham University. June 10, Woodland Gardening with Stuart Dixon of Hebbs Farm. July 8, Des Martin of Mozart Nursery Ferns.
THE Big Garden Birdwatch is the biggest wildlife survey in the world and this year takes place over the weekend of January 25-26. If you have an interest in wildlife, why not take part. The opportunity exists for you to do this on your own or as a family, and you can even take part in your local park if you don't have a garden. To get involved, just pick an hour over the weekend and report into the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and tell them what you’ve seen. For traditionalists, pen and paper recording continues with results being transferred to the RSPB via computer. For technophobes taking part in the 2014 survey you'll be able to record the birds as you see them directly onto your laptop, tablet or smartphone with the new online bird counting tool. Just start the timer and once your hour is up, all you need do is press submit to send your results. Check things out on the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch site before the event for details.
THE Melbourne Town Band Annual Christmas raffle was drawn by an independent observer in the Melbourne Royal British Legion, and the winners of the three luxury Christmas hampers were Daniel Smith, Liza Grummett and Mr G Medland.
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Village Voice January 2014 5
THE parish councillors took their seats for the first council meeting of 2014 and the chair, Cllr Jane Carroll, wished everyone a Happy New Year. PCSO Emma Guest, on behalf of the police, reported that PC Vicky Ball had been appointed to the Melbourne Area, replacing PC Rob Buckley, who has been seconded to other duties. PCSO Guest also reported that there had been several attempted burglaries locally and that two people had been arrested on suspicion. Other crimes reported included the theft of vehicle doors and the theft of tree surgery equipment from a location in Trent Lane. There are no leads for either crime. County Cllr Linda Chilton reported that Pool Cottage had received full approval from the Care Quality Commission and, as a consequence, Derbyshire County Council has lifted its restriction on the placement of new residents. Cllr Chilton also reported that Rural Action Derbyshire run a countywide scheme for the purchase of heating oil for those homes not connected to a mains gas supply. Membership of the scheme could save households an average of £140 per year. Membership can be obtained by contacting www.ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk/oil.html For South Derbyshire District Council, Cllr John Harrison reported that 2014 is the 40th anniversary of the formation of the council and there will be celebrations of its achievements during the year at no cost. He added that in budget reviews the council had stated that there were no plans to introduce car parking charges, no charges or fines for emptying wheelie bins and no cuts in grants to parish councils or voluntary organisations. The last 12 months have seen much action within Melbourne relating to the care of trees as
a result of strong winds and the age of the trees. These actions have resulted in the felling of several trees in the Packhorse Road cemetery. There is now a health and safety issue with a tree in the redundant cemetery in Castle Square. A beech tree has been identified as being unsafe and must be felled. The council has to apply for emergency planning approval to do this and remove the likelihood of a serious incident. Council members voted in favour of a planning application for a pedestrian pathway linking Earp Way to Station Road. Dog poo. Do you have a social conscience? Are you community friendly? Is dog poo a nuisance? If you answer yes to any of these questions, are you prepared to report on instances witnessed of dog owners allowing their pets to foul the pavements without cleaning up the mess? Parish councillors are repeatedly asked to do something about the mess left on the streets of Melbourne by uncaring dog owners but they are only 15 of the several thousand residents who may witness this anti-social activity. Good citizenship and care for your community could have a huge impact on the appearance of the town. Please do your bit and report them, the council asks.
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Mobile libraries, faith school transport and grants to voluntary groups are all under immediate threat he explained, but he wanted to be direct and open with people, and he was committed to ensure that there was proper consultation on the impacts of the changes. He chairs the Local Area Committee for South Derbyshire, which aims to make the Council more accessible to the residents. Asked about the ‘hot topics’ he mentioned the impact of housing plans, particularly in respect of education and road infrastructure and the Fire Authority consultation proposals. His concern is, that with thousands of homes being welded to the southern border of Derby City, neither the education nor road improvements
would match the development. An example of the road problems he identified was the oneway railway bridge on Sinfin Lane which already causes congestion to and from the city, so with any additional traffic, the problem would only worsen. On the subject of secondary schooling he had an idea that instead of one school on the city boundary there could be two smaller ones, for about 1000 pupils each, but he was clear that with most of the additional housing being located north of the River Trent, a solution which would result in bussing pupils to more distant locations was not viable. All of these things will need much more community engagement, he thought, before an agreed solution could be found. On the Fire Service cuts issue, he had some sympathy with the Chief Fire Officer, trying to make some 40% savings on a budget, but he thought the current proposals would be significantly modified. He also said that the Labour group was open minded about the future provision and wanted to see better liaison between neighbouring areas. Despite the difficult budget situation and the hard work involved he was enjoying his term as county councillor.
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AFTER winning the new County Council Aston Division seat in May 2013, Councillor Rob Davison has been bringing his long experience of Local Government to bear in representing the residents in his area, which stretches from Shardlow to Sinfin. He was aware of the likely scale of budget restrictions when elected and was careful not to make promises he could not deliver on, and he is direct about the probable impact of the cuts. “The scale of the likely cuts is eye watering,” he said “with the council budget shrinking by a third of the size it was in 2009 by 2018. This will mean every element of county council activity will be affected. Some services will have to go altogether.” This is unpalatable for a Labour-controlled council, and he was surprised that there had not been any substantial public resistance so far to the cuts being imposed by central government. Cllr Davison (pictured) has particular responsibility as Deputy Cabinet member for adult health and it is likely that the budget cuts will mean only those with substantial needs will be supported, with the need to charge increasingly for access to services.
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THE proposal to build 13,000 homes in the South Derbyshire area has prompted concerns about the longer term education provision in the area. Andrew Jansen of the campaign group Education for Melbourne told Village Voice: “The single objective of the EFM group is to secure the best possible education for Melbourne and South Derbyshire children.” The group has brought together a body of parents committed to this cause. Their remit is to monitor the impact of local development on the education provision to ensure that it is central to any planning discussion at district, county and national levels. When EFM was first formed there was no case for a new school in South Derbyshire in the short term as projections for the number of children in the Chellaston catchment area indicated no immediate danger of it being over-subscribed. However, the proposed housing developments in the area have the potential to dramatically change this position in a relatively short period of time. While Chellaston Academy would continue to make every effort to accommodate Melbourne children, once the Academy was over-subscribed,
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the school admission policy would mean the application of a lottery system if there were insufficient places at the school. Over the last two years the group has met with Heather Wheeler MP, Councillors John Harrison, Jim Hewlett and Linda Chilton, Ian Thomas (Strategic Director, Children and Younger Adults Department at Derbyshire County Council) and Ray Ruszczynski, headmaster of Chellaston Academy. Lately, a number of sites which would fall within the Chellaston normal area have been proposed for development and the South Derbyshire Draft Local Plan has proposed significant development around the south of Derby city. The draft plan goes on to state for the first time that a new secondary school will be required. The first planning meetings between the councils, education authorities and affected schools have now taken place. It remains the objective of EFM to engage with key decision makers, and begin to involve the local community to ensure that the decision making process for new secondary school capacity will not adversely impact on the access to quality education that is currently enjoyed by the children of Melbourne.
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● GUESTS and helpers are pictured carol singing at the Ticknall Lunch Club Christmas dinner. The club has been running for six years and regularly has 45 plus members attending. New residents are always welcome at any time to the fortnightly lunches, the next one being on January 21.
Members of the Parish Council Chair Jane Carroll Vice Chair/Highways Wendy Earp Burial Grounds Sheila Hicklin Recreation & Ameneties Andrew Jackson David Carpenter Nigel Collyer Sarah Dunnicliff Christopher Howard OBE George Hudson Rose Minife Robert Parker Margaret Sharp David Smith Malcolm Stockill Paul Willmore
863269 865019 865726 07931 541387 864521 07831 540538 862162 07795 484120 07503 247953 07795 362936 07973 297404 862471 862699 694598 863044
Melbourne Parish Council Quarterly Report - January 2014
The Parish Council has had a busy time since the last report. Here is a brief description of what we have been doing. More information can be found on our website at www.melbourneparishcouncil.org.uk The installation of CCTV has been successful for identification of perpetrators of anti-social behaviour and crime in the town centre. The annual Wakes was a good and trouble free weekend. We congratulate and thank the Royal British Legion for organising the dedication of the memorial bench for Guardsman Danny Blinco and the smooth running of the Remembrance Day parade. The Parish Council response to South Derbyshire District Draft Local Plan raised our concerns for new house building to the south of Derby and our concerns for lack of secondary school provision. Our application to nominate the Market Place toilets as a community asset was approved by South Derbyshire District Council. It was resolved at the December Council meeting to shelve the application for a one-way system in Melbourne. The Melbourne Sporting Partnership is rapidly completing it’s negotiations for new sporting facilities in Melbourne. The proposal to close Melbourne Fire Station is of great concern to all. The Parish Council hosted a meeting to help residents complete responses to the consultation. Thanks to the all the people who made this meeting possible particularly the local fire fighters. We have enlisted the Community Service Team to clear the twitchells. Many thanks to Geni Electrics for supply of LED lights for Christmas cross-street lighting which will be more cost effective. The Christmas shopping event was a great success and thanks go to Promote Melbourne for the efficient organisation. We invite residents to submit nominations for the annual Dr Brendan Freeman Community Award. Nominations should be sent to any Parish Councillor or melbourneclerk@aol.com by February 4th. Presentation will be at the Annual parish meeting on March 4th. Finally, Melbourne Parish Council wishes everyone a Happy New Year. Jane Carroll - Chair, Melbourne Parish Council
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Village Voice January 2014 7
NEW RESTAURANT MENU & TAKE-AWAY PIZZA NOW AVAILABLE January Sample Menu ● A BARBEQUE, organised by Rolfe and Karen Finney, was held at Melbourne British Legion Club and raised £232.60p for the Poppy Appeal fund. Pictured handing over the cheque are (l-r) John Goodband, Andrew Boardman, (Poppy Appeal organiser), Karen and Rolfe Finney.
THE continuing campaign to save Melbourne Fire Station saw an ‘Angry Mob’ descend on the local station on December 13, when the fire chiefs were visiting for a consultation meeting. The mob was a placard-waving group of young Melbourne residents who marched from the school gates to the Fire Station – accompanied by their mums and dads, of course, to keep them safe! It was yet another example of how the community is pulling together to challenge the proposal from Derby Fire and Rescue Service, which has published plans to close the station and sell off the assets. The Deputy Chief Executive of DFRS, Joy Smith, was clearly impressed with the turn-out. She said: “It was extremely encouraging to see the number of people attending the event at Melbourne Fire Station. It is evident that there is a real community spirit in Melbourne and a thriving population of people who are keen to be involved in all aspects of their local community.” ● FLAUTIST Christopher Hill, the Melbourne Rotary Club Musician of the Year and Repton Musician of the Year, pictured playing at the A Choir'd Taste Christmas Concert.
She added: “DFRS officers were able to engage with many stakeholders throughout the day, listening to their views and comments and answering questions around their concerns. All comments and views returned through the consultation process will be considered, following the close of the ‘Fit to Respond’ survey. “Thereafter a full evaluation report of the comprehensive consultation will be taken to the next Fire Authority meeting in February, following which the results and outcomes will be made public.” The event had brought out five generations of one family in support of the station “There has been provision in Melbourne for as long as I can remember,” said one resident “and it is shocking to think it may just be taken away.” The Melbourne crew was called into action early in the New Year, to attend to a chimney fire on Alma Street on January 2. Fortunately, the speedy response meant that the incident was dealt with efficiently before it could spread and cause further damage. – Frank Hughes
SOUTH Derbyshire MP Heather Wheeler is delighted that Clare's Law to allow women to check the backgrounds of their partner for violence-related arrests, has moved on from being a pilot scheme to now being actively available nationwide. Mrs Wheeler said: "This is wonderful news as domestic violence is more prevalent than many people realise and it will allow women to protect themselves if they have any doubts.”
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■ NEW Year’s Eve revellers partied into 2014 at a number of local venues. The weather was not that kind, although a break in the rain did encourage some onto the streets for the countdown to midnight. Many of those enjoying the party activities indoors stayed indoors and continued their celebrations. Our pictures show revellers at Harpur’s (above) and others at the RBL Club (below).
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ON TUESDAY, December 17, more than 20 members of the 50+ Club, which meets at Brookfields Club, Barrow on Trent, every Thursday afternoon, were invited to Chellaston Academy to a Senior
Citizens’ Christmas party. They were entertained by the school bands and singers and also by the teaching staff, which was excellent. A full tea was served by the students. Finally there was a
visit from Santa when everybody received a gift. Many thanks to everyone at Chellaston Academy for a marvellous afternoon, which was very much appreciated. J Johnson, Barrow on Trent
ISN’T it odd that despite mass immigration being the hottest subject in the whole EU debate nothing gets reported about a major agreement that was signed on December 16, 2013? EU Home Affairs Commissioner (unelected) Celecia Malmstrom, on our behalf, signed away a little bit more of our sovereignty (if sovereignty is the right word as I am not sure this applies to the UK, at the moment). This agreement authorises the lifting of visa requirements for Turkish citizens travelling through the EU, and ultimately the UK. Within three years the Open Door Immigration policy will be extended to Turkey. Turkey is home to a
population of 76 million people. To make matters more odd, Turkey is not even close to joining the EU, yet we will be powerless to stop free settlement of a country that is currently home to more people than the UK. I can’t find many references in the national/local media about this immense act, on par with many other national events in our history. Maybe because it took place in Turkey with a Swedish politician it was not seen as significant to people in our country. Why have none of our politicians objected to this? Alan Graves, UKIP East Midlands Chairman
MAY I through your kind offices extend a massive 'thank you' to the gentleman who came to my door on Christmas night to tell me that the lights on my car in South Street had not been
switched off. We had been in the car to a family dinner in Uttoxeter and on arriving home I had failed to switch off the side lights. I do not know how he knew to whom
the car belonged but he must have made an effort to find out and for that too I thank him. Such are the benefits of living in a village such as Melbourne. Julia Rowley
“SHOCKED and surprised” was how Margaret Wheatley expressed her emotions when told she had been chosen to receive the Citizen of the Year award from Melbourne Rotary Club. The award was presented to Margaret at the Rotary Club meeting on December 17. Margaret and husband Michael own Melbourne News located in the Market Place, a business they bought some 20 years ago. Margaret is from a farming family in Spondon – her father's name was J.R. Ewing, but no relation to the Dallas character in the hit TV series. From school she helped on the farm before joining the Derby law firm of Flint, Bishop & Barnett, becoming P.A. to the senior partner before moving to Melbourne to take on board Melbourne News and build it into the thriving business it is today. In July of 2013, when visiting her aunt, a resident of Pool Cottage, Margaret learned that the residential home was having serious financial difficulties, and all the residents were facing immediate homelessness. Margaret and Michael decided to underwrite the overheads of the business and applied to take on the lease, thus ensuring the continuation of care and accommodation for the 16 residents. However, there were many difficulties to overcome before the lease could be assigned to them. Because of their inexperience in the field of care, they have also had to resolve other obstacles. But their immediate objectives to ensure the continuation of the excellent standards of care for the residents and save Pool Cottage from closure has been achieved and they can now explore opportunities to extend the provision when circumstances allow. Margaret was clearly touched to receive the award saying: “I thank the Rotary Club for presenting me with this special award. It is something I will always cherish.” – Tom Mills
FOLLOWING a good response of entries for the Village Voice Christmas Crossword, the draw for the winning submission was won by Richard Barker of Melbourne. Mr Barker, who is pictured with his £25 winner’s cheque, said, “I’m surprised with the news but delighted to win.” The answers are: Across: 1 Merry, 5 Stoke, 8 Dodge, 9 Lap, 10 Fit, 11 No Lid, 12 All In, 14 Earn, 15 Abhor, 17 Cobra, 20 Sage, 22 Leeks, 25 Corgi, 26 Rug, 27 Ice, 28 Lough, 29 Derby, 30 Ashby. Down:1 Madonna, 2 Rudolph, 3 Yielder, 4 Belper, 5 Sepia, 6 Offal, 7 Eaton, 13 Leo, 16 Oak, 17 Cecilia, 18 Borough, 19 Apishly, 21 Angels, 22 Lurid, 23 Elgar, 24 Shiny.
VILLAGE VOICE is a truly local independent newspaper dedicated to help keep local people informed and local traders in business. As well as being home delivered, every page of every edition is available for easy reading online through our website melbournevillagevoice.co.uk Every month 5,600 copies are delivered to all the areas listed on the right.
MELBOURNE KINGS NEWTON TICKNALL INGLEBY FOREMARK MILTON LOUNT STANTON-BY-BRIDGE SWARKESTONE WILSON STAUNTON HAROLD TONGE TWYFORD ISLEY WALTON WESTON-ON-TRENT ASTON-ON-TRENT ELVASTON THULSTON AMBASTON BARROW-ON-TRENT BREEDON FINDERN SMISBY
Village Voice January 2014 9
MELBOURNE Festival is re-launching its Emerging Talent competition to encourage young and emerging artists to be more involved in the Festival 2014. The competition is aimed at those who are considering a career in art by focussing on the 16 to 25 year-olds who are in education or have just left it. It is also aimed at those artists resident or studying in the East Midlands. The award is part of a programme titled Expanding Horizons supported by an Arts Council England Grant for the Arts, and a local benefactor. The winner will receive £1,000 and there will be a runner-up award of £250. The Festival team will provide mentoring for the winner and a place on the 2015 Melbourne Festival Art & Architecture Trail. Expanding Horizons is about reaching out to the wider communities in Derbyshire and beyond; however, the theme is open to individual and imaginative interpretation. The artwork will be judged on originality, and imaginative interpretation of the brief. Details of the competition are available on the Festival website www.melbournefestival.co.uk or by email from info@melbournefestival.co.uk
● ROTARIAN Douglas Keith with Margaret Wheatley proudly displaying her Citizen of the Year Award.
SANTA had a brand new sleigh, provided by the Rotary Club of Melbourne, in time for his annual preChristmas tour of Melbourne and Ticknall. Rotary members assisted him, with a little help from their friends, dressed as ‘Santa’s little helpers’. Four days of door-to-door collections in Melbourne, with one day in Ticknall, yielded a record sum of £1,666 for Rotary charities, well ahead of last year’s
£1,500, and £1,450 the year before. All monies collected will be donated to mainly local charitable organisations, and the Rotary Club would welcome any sensible suggestions for suitable recipients. Santa would particularly like to say hello to all the children who came out to greet him and to thank everyone who contributed to the collection and of course, to everyone who helped him on his rounds.
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DONINGTON Park has been revealed as the only UK race circuit to welcome the eni FIM World Superbike Championship this year, after unveiling its impressive provisional race calendar. The new look series is expected to see Donington welcome two British champions to the track. Current World Superbike title holder Tom Sykes, who will be back with the Kawasaki Racing Team to try and retain the championship, is expected to line-up alongside reigning British Superbike champion Alex Lowes. As the first ever host circuit for the contest as long ago as 1988, Donington Park is hopeful that a combination of a new-look competition and racing nostalgia will make for a thrilling battle for top spot next year. As well as the World Superbike Championship (May 23/24/25), Donington will also be welcoming the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (April 19/20), the Donington Historic Festival (May 3/4/5), the Classic Motorcycle Festival (August 8/9/10) and the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship (September 5/6/7) to the track during 2014, along with a host of exciting national racing action.
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● THE ladies of the United Reformed preparing the Christmas dinner for on alternating Fridays at the church
● THE MELBOURNE Charity Band, a group of musicians drawn from players in brass bands in the area, turned out to play carols and Christmas music in pubs and restaurants in the district in the run-up to Christmas. The last appearance in their 2013 schedule was in Melbourne Market Place on the morning of Christmas Eve. The band raised £4,700 for Cancer Research over their nine appearances bringing their total donations to £53,300 over a 10-year period.
● VERY heavy rain half an hour before the Carols Round the Christmas Tree event was due to start resulted in a change of location from outdoors in the Market Place, and some 100 people gathered indoors instead, in the Methodist Church. The Town Band was on hand to provide the music, and a small group of pre-school playgroup children formed an impromptu choir, to sing “Away in a Manger”. Ironically, the rain stopped as quickly as it had started, but everyone stayed warm and dry, and enjoyed the hot drinks and mince pies provided by the Rotary Club, who once again organised the event, raising a further £120 for local charities.
● DECEMBER 15 saw the 46th pr Bartholomew's Church, Elvaston, w James’s, Shardlow, on the 17th. With a cast of young people from played to packed congregations. Mrs organising the Nativity play since 1 tion, especially so with having three three kings.
● A GROUP of mature Melbourne residents enjoyed the hospitality of Lord Ralph and Lady Marie Claire Kerr when they attended Melbourne Hall for afternoon tea as a Christmas treat. The occasion was organised through Melbourne Community Care with volunteers providing transport. In addition to the tea prepared by staff at the hall, Lord Ralph entertained guests by playing the piano (pictured right with Victoria Hancock and Lady Marie Claire Kerr).
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Village Voice December 2013 11
d Church in Melbourne are pictured r the Friday lunch group that meets h rooms.
● THE Melbourne Mummers (Peter Wood, Robin Raines, Phil James, Richard Read, Roger Spencer and Brian Crosbie) were out just before Christmas on their second year of revival of their mumming play. Visiting six pubs in Ticknall, Ingleby and Melbourne, the troop raised £170 for Shelter. The evening was finished off with a rousing rendition of carols at the White Swan. The mummers were pleased to see familiar faces from last year, and hope to continue the tradition for many years to come.
● THE Recreation in Aston ‘Santa Round the Village’ event was once again a huge success. Local volunteers joined forces with the Brownies, Aston Players and Recreation in Aston and spent all day making John’s lorry resemble a wonderful Santa’s Grotto. Money collected was shared between the Brownies, Aston Players and Recreation in Aston. During the evening villagers came out to welcome Santa with hot mulled wine, hot turkey rolls and mince pies. The event was sponsored by East Midlands Airport, The Malt in Aston and John Wilkinson of Chellaston Lane.
roduction of a Nativity Play at St. with the performance repeated at St
m both churches, each performance s M E Evadne Robbins, who has been 1967 was delighted with the produce young boys to take on the role of the
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12 Village Voice January 2014
FOR hundreds of years it was a thriving industrial site – now it is being transformed into a peaceful wildlife haven. Green-fingered volunteers from Aston-on-Trent have been busy turning the former Aston Brickyard site – where for centuries people carved out clay to make bricks – into an area of wood and grassland where indigenous trees, native plants and rare butterflies are allowed to thrive. John Holloway, secretary of the Friends of Aston Brickyard Plantation group, said: “The aim is to restore the plantation, including the planting of native species to ensure a properly managed and conserved site.” The brickyard plantation site was formerly a rich source of plaster, or gypsum, later becoming a brick-making yard up until the 1960s. The site was used for landfill in the 1970s, before landscaping and returning to nature. Today’s volunteers are working to preserve and create habitats for the wildlife which has found its home there, as well as creating a well-managed wood which can be enjoyed by dog walkers and the local community. The volunteers are working with Derbyshire County Council on the ambitious project, and have now formed a formal conservation group who meet monthly at the plantation. Two hundred and fifty new trees such as holly and hazel have re-
TWO additional trains a day are now calling at Willington thanks to Derbyshire County Council. A new morning service at 9.44am will stop at Willington for Birmingham, calling at Burton-on-Trent and Tamworth. This service will return at 2.49pm from Birmingham, again stopping at Tamworth and Burton-on-Trent. This train will then leave Willington at 3.26pm for Derby and Nottingham. The new services run Mondays to Saturdays and are part of the Cross Country Trains service from Nottingham, Derby and Birmingham. Councillor Andy Botham, Derbyshire County Council's Deputy Cabinet Member for Jobs, Economy and Transport, said: “We’re dePhoto courtesy of S Stephens lighted that we have been able to persuade Cross Country Trains cently been planted there, and the group of 13 volunteers have been to stop these trains at Willington. working hard to thin woodland, develop grassland, widen paths “These new services will give local people improved travel options and work towards creating glades and open spaces. and the opportunity to travel on cheaper off-peak tickets to BirmBenches and viewpoints have also been made and installed. ingham and I’m sure that they will prove to be popular.” However, much work has still to be done and the project is still in its early stages. Mr Holloway said: “We want this to be a mix of a managed, conserved site that’s a protective haven for flora and fauna, as well as somewhere that people can walk around and enjoy. By carefully EAST Midlands Airport is planning to open a new £1.5 million purworking to a management plan we can ensure a successful future pose built security search hall this month. The 1,140 square metre area will include a newly refurbished for people and wildlife. “Aston has a reputation for being a very community-minded vil- queuing area with natural daylight and additional space that will lage. Our other aim is the process of educating young people. We house the latest in security technology with long lanes to improve want to encourage them to see the plantation as a resource for en- the flow of passengers. The security search hall is part of the £12 million investment to joyment and learning about the value of conservation and our natthe terminal building to upgrade the facilities and improve the exural environment.” – Lucy Stephens perience for passengers.
■ TICKNALL Christmas Fair was an event enjoyed by all who visited and those who took part. The lovely stall pictured was staffed by Elizabeth Freeman (left) with Margaret Whyte and grandchildren Maggie and Rennie also helping.
A MIXED group of carol singers get together each Christmas Eve, to sing at a number of pre-arranged venues in Melbourne. The tradition has been taking place since 1947, although there have been many changes in those taking part. This time the group raised £710 for National Children’s Homes.
WITH a Ho Ho Ho and plenty of “he’s behind you”, parents at Melbourne Infants School raised hundreds of pounds by staging their very first Christmas panto. Written by school parent Katherine Parrish, “Tick Tock Christmas Clock” was performed by a group of mums and dads in two shows at the school’s main hall. Katherine said: “It was an idea that was created when I was doing A-level drama. My fellow students and I had to make up our own pantomime. We did perform it then to local schools and I thought it was such a good story that I wanted to put it on in the village.” The cunning plot involved a lost Christmas clock – made by fellow parent and local children’s author Jo Litchfield – two baddies by the names of Greenwich Mean Time and Aunty Clockwise, good children on scooters and even cameo webcam appearances. Parents rehearsed every week for two months before the show, which was seen by around 150 teachers, mums, dads and children. The scenery was made from
Village Voice January 2014 13
MIXOLOGY & COOKERY SCHOOL cardboard and the whole occasion raised more than £600 for the school’s Parents Association, of which Katherine is currently chair. She said: “Children find theatre quite exciting. They really believe in whatever’s in front of them so I think they enjoyed it and adults seemed to find it funny. “It was like a training pantomime so that parents would know it wasn’t very long and children wouldn’t have to sit through a full length pantomime, and it was more reasonably priced.
“I think it’s a good way of introducing children to the theatre; it’s one step up from story-telling to see something acted out, it’s more animated. “I was really pleased that I had such willing parent helpers. I just asked them and they said ‘yes’!” The Melbourne Infant School Parents Association raises thousands of pounds for the school each year, paying for enhanced educational opportunities such as writing workshops and revamped book corners in the classrooms. – Lucy Stephens
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A GATHERING of more than 150 people cheered on battle re-enactors at Swarkestone when members of the Charles Edward Stuart Society, dressed in period uniforms and using replica weapons, re-enacted the 1745 Jacobite uprising. The uprising was the attempt by Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) to regain the Scottish throne for the exiled House of Stuart. On December 4, 1745, the Jacobite army of Charles Edward Stuart reached Derby and an advanced party of 70 Highlanders were sent to secure Swarkestone Bridge and the crossing over the Trent. The bridge is generally accepted to be the
southernmost point reached by Bonnie Prince Charlie in his advance on London. Four hours later Government troops arrived to destroy the bridge. The Jacobite advanced force defended the crossing until December 6, when the army of Highlanders turned around and started its long retreat which would eventually end at Culloden. The Charles Edward Stuart Society was founded in 1990 to promote the understanding of Derbyshire's role in the 1745 rising. Each year the society carries out the re-enactment during the first week of December. The chair of South Derbyshire District Council, Cllr Ann Hood, attended the event.
JOHN DANVERS 1937 - 2013 JOHN died very suddenly at his home on December 2. He was born at Breedon on the Hill in 1937 and lived there until 2013, when he moved to Coalville. John married his childhood sweetheart Elsa in 1961 (they had lived next door to each other). The couple subsequently had two sons and four grandchildren. John was a great family man and always had time for family and friends. On leaving school he went to work for Breedon & Cloud Hill Lime Works as a property decorator for approximately 10 years and then set up his own decorating business. His work was mainly carried out in Melbourne, Breedon and Castle Donington. He was a
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Saturday 25th January - Burns night:
3 courses of Scottish fayre, a lot of haggis & a wee dram £15 per person New light bites menu at lunch time from £3 - Served Mon - Fri 12.00 - 2.00pm We will also be hosting our famous curry nights every month: 17th January 27th February 27th March Food F ood d served d1 12.00 2.0 00 - 2 2.30 .3 30 & 6 6.00 .0 00 - 9 9.00 .0 00 M Mon on - S Sat at 1 12.00 2.0 00 - 4 4.00 .0 00 S Sunday und day y& Bar open all day 12.00 - 11.30 Main Street, Kings Newton, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8BX T : 01332 863808
well-known figure around Melbourne for many years and only recently retired at the age of 73. John was also a great sportsman. He played cricket for Breedon for many years as well as for his battalion in the Grenadier Guards and was flown to various countries to compete. He also played football, tennis and badminton. John had a very happy and friendly disposition and will be missed by everyone who knew him. Life will never be the same for his family.
HILDA CHELL 1921 – 2013 HILDA Chell nee Bradbury passed away peacefully at the Poplars Nursing Home at Burton on Trent. Hilda was a well-known and respected resident of Melbourne. Born in Newhall, she moved to Melbourne in 1937 and married her late husband, Dan, in 1939 at Melbourne United Reformed Church. Dan served in the Army during the war and was a Burma Star veteran. Hilda will be sadly missed by son Ken and his wife, Sylvia, three grandchildren, three great grandchildren and sister Jean. – J B Gange
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ANDY Gates is a 24-year-old who can be found most days at the Breedon Priory Health Club where he works. Each year he makes a donation to Children in Need, but for 2013 he decided that he would like to do something different and take part in a fund-raising activity for the annual event.
He set himself a challenge that was totally unlike anything he had ever done before. With only a month to prepare he decided he would carry out a sponsored swim of 10k at the pool located at the health club. He took his training seriously and on some days he would be in the pool at 5am.
He managed to complete his 10k swimming challenge in 4 hours 45 minutes, a result that has spurred him on to do something bigger and better this year. Andy would like to thank everyone who supported him and very generously donated money towards the cause.
PICTURED prior to their recent concert at Melbourne Assembly Rooms are members of Melbourne Operatic Society. The concert was the last of the society's 60th anniversary celebrations, having performed "Ruddigore" at Long Eaton's Duchess Theatre in April, summer concerts in Melbourne and Long Eaton in July and the annual Christmas Concerts in Melbourne and Castle Donington. The Christmas concerts are always hugely popular with both members and audiences alike, heralding in the start of the Christmas season. Both nights provided plenty of carols and popular seasonal songs with a wide variety of choral music being offered with soloists, duets and comical festive readings. Both venues were packed with audiences who were in fine voice to join the society in the com-
munal singing. Wine and mince pies were served by society members during the interval, which gave everyone a chance to catch up with old friends and welcome new ones. Rehearsals are already underway for 2014’s production of Gilbert and Sullivan's ever popular Iolanthe at the splendid Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton, from March 12 to 15. A community bus will be available from both Melbourne and Castle Donington on the Wednesday and Thursday evenings for that event. Information and tickets will be available through the box office or www.melbourneoperaticsociety.com The society has returned to Melbourne (from Park Farmhouse) for its weekly rehearsals for both concerts and shows and is very pleased to be back in the town.
Village Voice January 2014 15
THE next Melbourne Area Neighbourhood Forum meeting will take place on February 18 (6.15-8pm) at Aston on Trent Village Hall.
16 Village Voice January 2014
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18 Village Voice January 2014
AS organiser of Melbourne’s 2013 Christmas Event, Promote Melbourne was delighted with the evening and we hope that everyone who attended was too. Of course, we couldn’t have done it alone! Promote Melbourne would like to thank the wide range of organisations and individuals that contributed to the evening by giving up their time, goods or services to make Melbourne’s latest Christmas event a real occasion to remember. We are particularly grateful to Melbourne Parish Council and South Derbyshire District Council for their ongoing support, Chester HSE which provided the first aiders and the two Parents’ Associations that helped everyone see Father Christmas in an orderly fashion. And to Father Christmas himself – often known as Mr Owens when he goes incognito – for listening to the Christmas wishes of an astounding 135 children in just a few hours! The Melbourne Methodists were a huge help providing an amazing number of volunteers on the night, as were Melbourne’s Scouts and their dedicated leaders and parents. We were very pleased that Lord and Lady Ralph Kerr and SDDC chair Ann Hood with her consort Frank could join us to switch on the lights, and that we had such a welcome range of wonderful, much-loved musical entertainers who gave up their time to help create the festive spirit. We are also grateful to the team at East Midlands Internet Radio who came and donated
their time, as well as the PA, to add some more sparkle, as well as extra hands, to the event. From my personal viewpoint, I’d like to thank several key local businesses who gave up an awful lot of their time, and possibly their sanity on occasions, to make sure that this event came to pass. Laura and Richard Fortey of Fortey’s sweet shop not only organised the 23 market stalls – 10 more than last year – but also the raffle and the surprisingly hard task of erecting the event banner. Claire Hyam of Sleepyheads Mail Order is Promote Melbourne’s Treasurer and, despite moving out of Melbourne months ago, still dedicated herself to the task of delivering this event. Anyone who knows Christine Lee of the Fairtrade shop will know she really makes the effort to make things happen – she volunteered her husband to stand on a cold road closure for a start! I’d also like to thank a 20-something year old called Chloe who, having only moved to Melbourne two months ago, called me out of the blue to volunteer her services and spent five hours helping out wherever she could. Equally indispensible on the night was Irene Lambert of Melbourne’s Willow Natural Therapy Clinic, and by the end of it she probably needed one of her own treatments to relax! A massive thank you goes out to every individual and business that was involved in the event. We couldn’t have done it without you. Clare Bampton, Chair, Promote Melbourne
● HELPING to raise funds for Weston-under-Fives at their Christmas fayre, a group of children from Weston School (pictured) sang Christmas carols to the delight of everyone in attendance. A huge 'thank you' goes out from the staff and the committee to everyone who helped support this event.
● MEMBERS and guests of Staunton Harold Women’s Institute enjoyed the annual Christmas celebrations held at the Catholic Church hall in Melbourne. Some of the committee members are pictured enjoying the evening (l-r) Sue Bown, Anne-Louise Sharp, Margaret Sharp, new president Barbara Robey and Linda Mills.
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MELBOURNE RFC welcomed Belgrave to Cockshut Lane for a match sponsored by Wayne Spiers. Belgrave,sitting in third place, is a club Melbourne had never played before. The opening exchanges were tight, but Belgrave had the physical presence and good game management to starve Melbourne of the ball. This was not helped by some missed touch kicks and a malfunctioning line out. Belgrave opened the scoring with a penalty early on and followed that up with a couple of tries later in the half. Melbourne got into the Belgrave 22 once in the first half and came away with a try from Alec Judge with Euan Holden converting. Half-time was 7-15. Melbourne scored soon after the second half started after a passage of play that showed all aspects of their game. A fine line out, driving maul, the ball spread from side to side and recycled quickly with Jack Fisher eventually scoring and Holden converting. Game on at 14-15. Belgrave then scored two more catch and drives before a powerful Ash Stringer run reduced the deficit. With Melbourne pushing hard a lost ball saw Belgrave’s full back score a breakaway try. Melbourne pushed hard but could not quite manage a final try for the bonus point and lost 21-37. Melbourne travelled to Dronfield with a much changed side. Joe Stuart, Jordan Sparkes, Jack Pearce and the Hollingsworth brothers (Alex and Rob) were all drafted in with six Melbourne players unavailable or injured. With Dronfield below Melbourne in the table, it was a big game and Melbourne came up short losing 21-
Village Voice January 2014 19
● REPRESENTATIVES of Melbourne Rugby Club line up for the camera prior to the pre-season President’s Game.
26, but gaining a losing bonus point. Tries came from Jack Pearce, Rob Foster with Jack Fisher’s boot adding 11 points. Melbourne then welcomed Kesteven in a must win game. The match ball was sponsored by Melbourne Chip Shop. Melbourne showed some good form and ran out 27-0 winners to pick up five crucial league points. Olly Page and Jack Fisher scored two tries each, with Stefan Greenhalgh getting one and Jack adding two points with the boot. The First XV finished the first half of the league campaigns in eighth place with 23 points. The next three games are against teams below them. The Second XV travelled to Dronfield for a Derbyshire 2nd XV cup game and had a fine win 43-22. This was followed with a visit from West Bridgford Thirds. The Seconds suffered from the call-up of players to the first team but this presented no problem as they chalked up a 96-5 win. Kurtis, Sam Stuart and Buxton got a brace each with Tom Line securing a personal haul of 31 points. Finally Derby Vets came to Cockshut Lane for a Pennant game. Melbourne put in a strong performance winning 41-15 with tries from Will Butler (2), Joe Stuart, Devon Iliffe, Chris Fulton and Scott Buxton. Melbourne are in second place in the Pennant league The Vets made their debut for the season with a trip to Long Eaton Thirds. With more Vulcan supports, Deep Heat and strapping visible than flesh, the Vets came out 57-38 winners. Tries came from Ian Lucas (3), Jake Oxspring (2), Pete Welsh, Dean Sylvester, Jim Williams and Dave Cox with Dean Sylvester converting six.
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PLAYING matters and re-organisation were high on the agenda at Elvaston Cricket Club as chairman Terry Gorman welcomed the capacity crowd to the club’s AGM in the magnificent clubhouse situated in the grounds of Elvaston Country Park. Being crowned county champions of the National Village Cup and reaching the national stages of the competition were one of the highlights of the past season as was playing in the finals of the County T20 competition at Derbyshire’s County Ground. All four senior teams finished higher in their respective divisions than in the previous season and will be seeking to improve on that in the 2014 season; two of the club’s six junior teams reached finals and all others enjoyed a good season with many of the junior players going on to play in senior cricket. First XI captain Gareth Charlesworth, who was re-elected at the meeting, is looking to recruit a couple of new players to boost the club’s attempt to get promoted to the County Premier League. It may not be a popular topic in what is essentially amateur sport, but finances to develop the club are always needed and Elvaston are no different in that respect. The club is seeking a main sponsor for the 2014 season and beyond; anyone wishing to discuss this or any other sponsorship should contact Andy Heafield on 07722 485213. Winter nets start in January and anyone interested in joining the club should contact cricket manager Andrew Lindsay on 07904 238499.
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20 Village Voice January 2014
SPORT WITH a sprinkling of red Santa hats and antlers on display, members of Kings Newton Bowls Club turned out for the annual Boxing Day competition. In good weather and with the green in superb condition the situation was ideal for the members who demonstrated some excellent bowling. The final was a close encounter between the pairing of Terry Summerlin and Paul Philipson playing against Jean Perkins and Neil Hill. Jean and Neil triumphed to win the Hardinge Arms Trophy. With the customary splendid Dave Lyons breakfast of bacon, sausage and eggs served throughout, coupled with an open bar, it was a very
MELBOURNE Dynamo first team ended 2013 top of the table with two league wins in December putting them a point clear to be the Christmas number one. They began December away to Heanor Town Reserves in the Derbyshire Cup and took the lead through skipper Carl Allsop. Failure to capitalise on their lead and to put chances away allowed Heanor back into the game. Two late goals saw Dynamo crash out at the quarter-final stage and lose their unbeaten run. Fortunes were better in the league, winning 4-2 at home against Woolley Moor United. Leading goal-scorer Dave Brough hit a hattrick and a finish from strike partner Michael Tristram secured the win. enjoyable morning to end the year on a good note for the Gavin Salisbury's men earned top spot with their final game of club. 2013 by easing past Little Eaton 5-0 again at home. Brough and Tristram were both on target again. Brough scored a brace, taking his total to 21 goals, with Tristram hitting his 20th goal of the campaign. Strikes from Matt Brian and Danny Guild added to the total to take Dynamo into the top spot. MELBOURNE Dynamo Reserves had another good month and started December with a stunning 4-2 away win against Newhall United Reserves in the quarter-finals of the Junior Derbyshire Cup. Youngster Jack Goodband hit a double aided by goals from Ryan Monk and another from a Ben Dale free-kick to secure the win. The following week the Reserves’ good form continued as they hammered Sandiacre Town Reserves 9-0 at home. The match was a personal triumph for teenager Tom Colclough, who scored a hattrick and also had a hand in five of the six other goals. Tom Donnachie, Ryan Monk, James Jennison, Shaun Hayes and Extensive selection of domestic and Farrell Scott all scored benefiting from Colclough’s assists with a commercial flooring to suit business, Ben Dale free-kick starting the scoring. rented and residential property Unfortunately, the Reserves lost their last game of 2013 going down 2-1 away to Derby Singh Brothers in the Challenge Cup. With All samples can be taken away Goodband hitting his 18th goal of the season, Greg Salisbury's men and viewed within your own home took the lead but failed to hold onto it against the side from the division above. 38 High Street, Melbourne TICKNALL Rangers have turned their season around as they won two, drew one and lost one of their four games in the month of December. They began with an entertaining 3-3 draw away to Edgehill Re serves with player-manager Alex Slater rolling back the years with a hat-trick. A Matt Archer penalty was the only consolation as Rangers lost 5-1 at home to Seal Inn. Ticknall’s season continued with two important 4-3 victories. The first at home to L.K.S in the quarter-final of the cup, saw Rangers losing 3-2 but two inspired changes saw substitutes Slater equalise and Dean Tivey head in the winner. Earlier goals from Charlie Ault and Matt Archer had given Ticknall a half-time lead. The month ended with another entertaining 4-3 home win, this time in the league. Goals from Ryan Grey, a Matt Archer penalty, a Charlie Ault header and a last minute long range effort from Slater secured Ticknall a vital three points.
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MELBOURNE Town Cricket Club begins its preparations for the 2014 season with senior nets starting on Sunday, January 19 (2-3pm). New players of every standard will be most welcome to attend. The club will be fielding three Saturday league sides plus a friendly Sunday team and those with an interest should contact Alex Slater on 07966933583. The Melbourne Town junior section also begins practice sessions in January with all youngsters of any age welcome with age groups from kwik cricket, under 11s hardball (school year 6), under 13s and under 15s catered for. Contact Sue Potts on 01332 864618 or sueandtelpotts@hotmail.com for any details with regards to the junior section On a historic note the club is trying to record its past on its new website. If any club members, ex-players or members of the public with a past link to the club have any information, old scorebooks, memorabilia etc please get in touch with Alex or Sue on the above numbers.