l Sixty local people enjoyed the King’s Newton Royal Birthday celebrations and toasted The Queen with a glass of prosecco.
More pictures and story on Pages 16 and 17.
l Melbourne Carnival guests of honour Pete and Sheila Clough present the winning float shield to the Puddleducks entry.
More Carnival pictures and full report on Pages 12 and 13.
by Lucy Stephens
NEW public toilets could be in the offing for Melbourne in plans to knock down the existing ones on the High Street along with the historic garage next door.
John Wall, of H Wall & Son, and Alexander Bruce Estates have submitted plans to flatten the 1920s garage and build a home there, and also to demolish the toilet block next door and create a new set of public conveniences for Melbourne.
The proposals follow a long-running saga around the loos, which saw the parish council declare them an asset.
The new plans on the table would mean a single three-bed house, garden and garage would be built on the demolished garage site and a new modern set of toilets with a public seating area built alongside.
A heritage statement accompanying the plans said the proposed scheme would be fully in keeping with the conservation area, saying: “The proposed development does not result in any structures or buildings within close proximity to the United Reform Church and the proposed development will significantly improve the appearance of this part of the street enhancing the setting of this building.”
The garage was started by John Wall’s grandfather, Harry Wall, in the
1920s having previously been a general store.
In the early years it traded in bicycles but moved over to cars in the 1930s when the vehicle trade really began to take off.
Harry’s son, Stan, then took over the garage before passing it on to John. It finally shut up shop in the early years of this century when John retired.
Parts of the building are thought to date back 200 years.
The drawings show the proposed new toilets would be contained in a smaller building than the existing one, with a pitched roof.
There would be an access drive into the new property from the High Street.
MELBOURNE may find itself in line for Government funding to help deal with flooding.
Victoria Coombes, from Derbyshire County Council’s flood risk team, told a public meeting held by Severn Trent Water in Melbourne on July 1 that the storms hitting the town on June 16 were serious enough to warrant a funding bid to try to address the problem.
The storms hit Breedon-on-the-Hill (pictured) with what were described as the worst floods since the 1930s.
Some of the villagers had to be evacuated from their homes and face waiting until Christmas before being allowed back in. n Full storms round-up and more pictures on Pages 6 and 7.
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Substantial 4 bedroom detached house with double garage, driveway and gardens. Large dining kitchen with gas red Aga/pantry/utility. 2 good size reception rooms and conservatory to the rear. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms and a good size bathroom with large walk-in shower. Cellar & downstairs cloaks. £1200 pcm
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25 VICTORIA STREET, MELBOURNE
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THIS King’s Newton couple are a pair of diamonds as they celebrate 60 years of married life.
Bryan and Eileen Hardy, of Trent Lane, tied the knot at Boulton St Mary’s Church in Alvaston on June 30, 1956.
They celebrated their 60th anniversary at The Bay Tree in Melbourne in a family occasion attended by two of their bridesmaids.
Bryan and Eileen met at Rolls-Royce in Derby at a Christmas dinner dance when both were working at the materials testing laboratory.
Eileen was 16 when she joined the department as a junior typist and Bryan was 18.
The couple moved to King’s Newton in 1960 and had four children in the 1960s: Graeme, Simon, Alison and Sarah – but sadness came in 1981 when Simon was
killed in a motorbike accident in King’s Newton aged only 18.
While Bryan continued to work for Rolls-Royce for 44 years, Eileen left but went on to have several jobs in Melbourne, including getting up at five in the morning in order to bunch onions at the Earp market garden in King’s Newton, working in the stocking factory in Castle Square and, for 26 years, at British Midland. She was also a parish councillor in the 1970s.
Today the couple have four grandchildren who all live locally: Aimee, Gemma, Connor and Rhys.
As for the secret of a long marriage? “I’d like to tell you there was never a cross word but that wouldn’t be true!” says Bryan.
“It’s all about give and take,” added Eileen.
THE blueprint that will guide the scale of future home building in South Derbyshire has been officially adopted.
After a lengthy process of drafting and consultation, which originated back in 2009, South Derbyshire District Council’s Local Plan Part 1 was finally adopted on June 13. It sets the long-term vision, objectives and strategy for development in this district and provides a framework both for promoting and controlling it.
It addresses the housing requirements for 12,618 additional homes until 2028 as well as 53 hectares of new employment land, and it sets out how and where those needs will be met.
Following hearings and public consultations, a Government Inspector has ruled that the plan is ‘sound’ and legally compliant – paving the way for the district’s elected councillors to adopt it.
The district council met in June to approve it and, although there were some concerns raised about its sustainability by the opposition Labour group, the plan was adopted and is now a formal document ready for planning teams to use.
MELBOURNE Art Group held its annual exhibition at Melbourne Assembly Rooms where visitors enjoyed free entry and refreshments.
Many of the images displayed were in a variety of different media including watercolour, acrylic, pen and ink and pencil. Handmade cards were available for sale with the proceeds going to charity.
The group meetings take place at Melbourne Assembly Rooms on Tuesday mornings. New members of any ability are welcome to join this friendly group when it reconvenes in September.
Further information is available from Robin Wood on 01332 602523.
Council Chief Executive Frank McArdle said: “The Local Plan Part 1 is all about guiding and shaping the future of our district in a sustainable way, so it’s a vitally important document to have in place.
“Officers have worked extremely hard to get it to this point. Their expertise has been invaluable and we’re very grateful to them for helping to get things over this final hurdle.
“The document will help us to move forward with a focus on our corporate plan themes of people, place and progress as we seek continuous improvement for South Derbyshire.”
There are no plans for any strategic housing sites in any of the local villages and it outlines one of the core objectives as “sustaining the vitality and viability of Melbourne through a combination of careful control over land uses and more widely through enhanced leisure and cultural facilities”.
Housing for the smaller villages is being addressed in Part 2 of the Local Plan, which has been revised following consultation, and is once again out for further public con-
Scheduled drop-in events have been taking place in villages which are going to be particularly impacted, including Repton, Hilton, Aston on Trent, Etwall, Rosliston, Hartshorne and Swadlincote.
No event was planned in Melbourne as there is no additional housing envisaged in this area.
Comments on the plan can be made until August 15.
The intention is to submit Part 2 to the inspector by the end of this year, with a planned adoption in summer 2017.
Meanwhile, Melbourne’s first draft Neighbourhood Development Plan has received an informal nod of approval from both the district planning team and from the local parish council.
The next stage is to raise a questionnaire about the content for the wider distribution and consultation in the village.
The draft plan is consistent with the revised Local Plan Part 2 and it is hoped that these emerging findings will influence applications which are currently in process.
–Frank HughesTHE 15th Weston Scarecrow Trail took place over the driest weekend in June.
Scarecrows appeared at 55 sites around the village, a record turn-out. There were 10 new scarecrow makers participating this year, and hundreds of visitors went along to support the event, contributing to the £2,000 raised. This will be shared equally between Weston-onTrent Village Hall and 2016’s chosen charity, Cancer Research UK.
Visitors also voted for their favourite scarecrows and the winners of the three categories will be announced at the Awards Afternoon Tea on Sunday, July 17.
Pictured at the start of the trail (l-r) are: Emma Therwis, Lucy Boyd, Lydia Pell, Kevin Mill with Willow the dog, Abby Hollingworth, and Amelia Pell.
LOCAL voters turned out in greater numbers to have their say in the historic EU referendum than in many other parts of Britain, figures obtained by the Village Voice can reveal.
The UK-wide turnout on June 23 was 72 per cent, higher than for the last General Election.
But polling stations in this area all recorded a higher percentage of the electorate who turned out to put their crosses in either the Leave or Remain box.
The average for Melbourne’s four polling booths was 79.5 per cent of voters with
2,619 ballot papers found out of 3,284 eligible voters – a number which excluded those who had decided to vote by post.
In Aston-in-Trent 959 people turned out on the day – a percentage of 83.46 per cent – with 190 registered voters not doing so. In Barrow 318 people voted out of a possible 390 while in Ticknall the turnout was the highest in this area at 88.16 per cent, with only 54 people staying away on polling day.
Castle Donington’s three polling booths registered 77.35 per cent of the total electorate who came out to have their say on the momentous day.
“THEY shall grow not old …”
A sombre ceremony was held at Melbourne’s War Memorial to honour 100 years since the opening day of the battle of the Somme –in line with similar events held up and down the UK.
Friday, July 1, marked the exact century since the whistle blew in the trenches and nearly 20,000 British men lost their lives in a single day of the bloodiest battle in the history of this country’s Army.
The Rev Dennis Smith, of Melbourne Methodist Church, conducted a short service at the memorial attended by around 50 people.
Three blasts of the whistle provided a moving reminder of the start of the Somme, while Melbourne Royal British Legion secretary Brendan O’Neill played the Last Post and Reveille and a minute’s silence was held to remember the fallen.
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I LOOK back on my last comments for June when I suggested a drought may happen and hold my hands up and ask: How could I be so wrong?
For farming, June has been an absolute pig with over seven inches of rain, and more than that in some areas, which has given us many problems.
Grazing stock have had a terrible time and our milking cows have been rehoused on several occasions as ground conditions are so bad. When they have been brought indoors for a few days’ milk yields have increased, showing how bad they were doing outside.
One positive spin-off from this situation is that milk levels are well down at a time when consumption and demand is usually low and the usual ‘flush’ which causes marketing problems has not happened. Prices are starting to rise as a consequence, which is badly needed at present.
n The other big happening in June was the vote to leave Europe and the political fallout
that followed. I admit I voted to leave but felt, on the result, a little nervous about the consequences.
I believe the broad idea of the EU is right until they start to want to govern us from Brussels, which seems to have been happening of late.
Each individual country should be left in charge of its own domestic affairs, which each government should be capable of doing.
The consequences for farming are hard to predict and I don’t believe much will change in the short term. The very complicated Common Agricultural Policy has never been a very fair system and I don’t think it suits northern countries.
We need a major shake-up!
n I saw something last week I’d not seen before – sand martins nesting in a steep bank on the Trent opposite Twyford. Little holes about an inch and a half in diameter were made in the sandy soil of the bank. It was really fascinating to see.
n THIRTY years of a voluntary group for blind, partially sighted, disabled and older residents has been marked in the best way possible – with a nice cup of tea.
The Castle Donington Friday Group celebrated three decades of holding social weekly gatherings with a sumptuous afternoon tea with music provided by Terry Lock.
The Friday Group was originally set up by Leicestershire Social Services and is now run by a team of volunteers, supported by
the volunteer centre and their community buses.
The group arranges entertainment for those who come along, from guest speakers to music and games.
Special guests for the 30 year celebration afternoon were Pat Arundel – a founder of the Volunteer Centre – and former Friday group organiser Stella Bairstow. Irene Davies paid for the tea as a gift to her friends in the group, and flower arrangements were made by Delia Astle Haigh.
MELBOURNE is to lose its squash court at the Assembly Rooms.
The court has been closed for some time whilst options for its future use have been explored. The facility had previously been broken into several times, necessitating costly replacement of locks and the meter box.
The expenditure was seen to be far outweighing the level of revenue.
After unsuccessfully exploring the possibility of getting the squash playing community to take over the court for a monthly fee, the board of directors has had an offer from the table tennis club to take it on. It was hoped that it might be possible to maintain a dual use, but the practicalities make this impossible.
The board realises this will be a disappointment to the small number of remaining squash players, but hopes that the economic necessity of the decision will be understood.
THE Melbourne Royal British Legion Club Committee has recently refurbished The Royal Suite (function room) and invited the members to join them for a free drink to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday.
Gordon Foddy, the club’s oldest active member, was invited to say a few words and declare the room open before showing the first England football match of Euro 2016.
The total refurbishment includes the installation of a small kitchen area and air conditioning, new lighting, floor, roof and ceilings. The tables and seating have also been changed to make the Royal Suite brighter and multifunctional and the club already has bookings for several private parties and weddings.
The club will be holding another family fun day in July as well as the normal entertainment activities organised by the club committee.
Councillor Jim Hewlett reported on district news and county news on behalf of County Cllr Linda Chilton.
At the recent Severn Trent Flood liaison meeting, parish, district and county councillors attended together with 18 members of the public.
Whilst listening to concerns expressed by a victim of the recent flooding, officials responded that no quick fix was possible or offered.
Severn Trent reported that work has been ongoing for a year in looking at Melbourne’s drainage and sewer systems and some remedial and maintenance tasks had been undertaken. The county council spokesperson reported that funds could now be applied for to tackle further research and STW reported that monitoring devices will be fitted in the near future to assist in their assessment of the problem areas.
A further meeting will be held on August 5.
Cllr Chilton’s report also suggested that residents can obtain sandbags through Call Derbyshire, by phone on 01629 533190 or via the website. (See Pages 6,7 for flooding reports).
n Residents are urged to respond to the DCC consultation ‘Roads-Tell us what you think’.
n The SDDC Local Plan Part 2 is out for consultation but no meetings are planned for Mel-
TOM MILLS reports from the July meeting of Melbourne Parish Council
bourne, there being no proposals for development in Melbourne in this phase.
Cllr Hewlett also reported that sites have already been identified to accommodate in excess of 700 houses which is more than the 600 plus requirement.
n The public car park located in High Street behind The Lamb Inn has several spaces identified with yellow cross hatching where previously recycling containers had been located.
Although the containers have been removed it is still illegal to park in the spaces and several residents have received parking tickets for doing so.
SDDC is to remove the cross hatching and parking enforcement officers have been requested to refrain from issuing tickets until this has been done.
n A police presence at the meeting gave councillors the opportunity to raise any issues. However, having held a meeting with police and other interested parties in June regarding antisocial behaviour in the Assembly Rooms location, there were
no other urgent issues.
n Councillors discussed at length the safety of headstones in the cemetery. There is a requirement to carry out an assessment and visual or manual testing is recommended.
The council will pursue the re-introduction of testing in accordance with SDDC guidelines. The extent and volume of testing required, the implications and costs will be reviewed in committee.
Other subjects discussed included:
n Melbourne Infant and Junior schools have given permission for the Summer Play Scheme to take place on their grounds.
n The Neighbourhood Development Plan working party is to prepare a community questionnaire for circulation in September.
n The Melbourne Assembly Rooms is to carry out a user survey.
n Councillors objected to the outline planning application for up to 15 dwellings on land north of Blackwell Lane.
NEW parents are being given the chance to get fit without leaving their babies in a crèche thanks to a “buggy fitness” class in Melbourne.
The class is a non-profit making enterprise organised under the auspices of South Derbyshire Village Games.
Held in Melbourne at 11.30am on Tuesdays, participants go along for an exercise class without having to make childcare arrangements, which many find difficult.
Class leader Douglas McClay said: “A lot of mums don’t want to leave their babies when they’re very young and a lot of gyms don’t have crèche facilities.
“If the baby needs to cry they can drop out and pick them up.”
The class is held outside in the park when the weather is good, and inside the Assembly Rooms when it is not.
Anyone who wants to join in can try a taster class for free without needing to book; thereafter there is a small charge per class.
For more details, see the Facebook Page, “Gresley Buggy Fitness” or you can send a text to 07969 126 940.
Mums (l-r) Michelle Galloway, Charlotte Johnson and Elaine Radford are pictured with Mr McClay.
MELBOURNE could be in line for Government funding to help deal with flooding –but we will probably have to wait at least 10 years for it.
Victoria Coombes, from Derbyshire County Council’s flood risk team, told a public meeting held by Severn Trent Water in Melbourne on July 1 that the storms hitting the town on June 16 were serious enough to warrant a funding bid to try to address the problem.
She told the meeting: “You got hit by a very,
very intense storm. It has flooded people – we have got the evidence base and we can go and ask for national flood risk management … (Melbourne’s) priority has gone right up.
“We can now bid to request some funding to try and do a study and potentially get a scheme for Melbourne.”
But she added: “Even if we were to be allocated some money it could be 10 years down the line.”
Severn Trent Water has been holding public
meetings since last August to give residents a chance to talk to officials about ongoing drainage issues in the town.
But the most recent meeting came after the wettest month recorded in Melbourne since local weather recorder Henry Dunnicliff began taking rainfall measurements in 1963, with 8.05 inches falling on the town during June – more than three times the monthly average of just under 2.5 inches. In fact, the week of June 10-16 was the wettest week Henry has ever recorded with 6.61 inches pouring from the heavens.
Zelia Lyne, from Severn Trent, told the meeting that some progress had been made in trying to improve the system, for example, by clearing drains and, in one instance, a “massive great big piece of wood” from a set of pipes.
But many residents at the meeting were un-
happy that they were still experiencing flooding despite the work being done.
At the Lilypool in Melbourne, the water on June 16 flooded two homes and residents at the meeting pointed out that it was unfair they should have to pay increased insurance premiums to cope with the problem.
THE June storms hit Breedon-on-the-Hill with what were described as the worst floods since the 1930s and some residents having to be evacuated from their homes until Christmas.
With dozens of properties affected and damage still in evidence to many homes, the flash flooding of June 15 has created fears it could happen with increasing frequency.
A brook running parallel to Main Street, which takes runoff water from many parts of the village, was estimated to be four metres higher than normal where it runs beneath Worthington Lane, causing extensive flooding to houses.
Ivars Licietis, who lives at the lower end of the Lime Kilns, said he had never known it happen and days after the flood was still trying to get back to normal.
“The whole area was covered in knee deep muddy water,” he said.
Breedon Parish Council chair Deborah Keith was one of the householders affected and she and her husband, Douglas,
have had to move to Melbourne for six months while their home is being put to rights.
Douglas described how the bad weather hit in the morning of June 16 – slightly before Melbourne’s severe storm – when he had gone out early in the morning for an 8am appointment in Derby, only to be called by his wife reporting that their kitchen was a foot deep in water.
He said: “I got back at 9.30am, the street was closed, there were three fire engines, a police car and an ambulance. I have never seen anything like it.”
Residents in Breedon campaigning against further house development say more homes will mean the village is more at risk from flooding.
Peter Spencer, who is spearheading a campaign called BRAND (Breedon Residents against New Development) said: “With 27 homes being planned on the higher land “Lime Fields” above Worthington Lane it is inevitable that rainwater will be running down to the lower parts of the village
increasingly often. Ironically the flood risk assessment for the application was completed only days before these latest floods.
“With the new houses on Pear Tree Mews, those in construction on Brookside Manor, and there are still houses planned for the land on the Garden Centre, the drainage system just cannot cope.
“There is bound to be bigger impact around the village, let alone the problems created during construction.”
Breedon Parish Council has published a note thanking everyone, “from local residents and businesses to the emergency services, that helped within the community during the severe flooding”.
It adds: “Many homes have been affected by the floods and families have had to be evacuated; many needing temporary accommodation for months. Your kindness, generosity and hands-on help is very much appreciated.”
– Frank Hughes and Lucy StephensSEVERN Trent Water and housebuilder Davidsons have come under fire after a severe mid-June storm caused raw sewage to flood people’s homes on the Station Road housing development – for the second time in two years.
The torrential storm which hit Melbourne on June 16 was described as “Biblical” by many residents who said they had never seen anything like it.
As with the storms of 2014 – described as “once in a hundred years” storms at the time –the sewers could not cope with the sheer volume of water which caused human waste to enter several people’s homes in the Davidsons estate.
Dave McDonald, living with his pregnant wife and two children on Sweet Leys Way, said: “The water just came flooding down off Station Road and down through their gardens and hit our house like a river.
“It came up to a metre on our back wall. That’s the same height as the toilet and that’s when it came out of the toilet.
“This was sewage that came out – it stank, it absolutely stank. The kids were screaming … I just had to get as much as I could upstairs.
“In my eyes, we are all on this estate paying Severn Trent money and I think that should have been spent on a new sewage farm.”
Dave said he had tried to get contents insurance after the previous storms but was now classed as a flood risk so insurers either refused to provide cover or charged prohibitively high premiums.
John Williams, from Melbourne, owns a home on the estate’s Tivey Way and described how two manhole covers were overflowing during the downpours.
He said: “There was an enormous pond in the road outside my house which was lapping against several houses. At the back of my house there was literally a bank of water which was deep in the garden.
“Had I been told clearly there was a risk of flooding, I would not have bought the house.
“There are people who have had to deal with this and haven’t managed to and it’s not the responsibility of individual householders to expect to be assailed with human waste.”
A Severn Trent spokesman said the storm which hit Melbourne last month was still classed as an “unusual weather event”.
Asked whether a sewer upgrade could be considered, he said: “If we gold plate everything the bills would be horrendous and nobody would want to pay them. These at the moment are still unusual events. We are very aware of how terrible it is for people who have got sewer flooding.
We get out there as quickly as we can.”
A spokesman for Davidsons said: “Prior to commencing the development, Davidsons, as part of the planning process consulted with statutory bodies including Severn Trent Water, who approved both the foul and storm water sewer designs for the site. The site was subsequently constructed to these approved designs, which have subsequently been adopted by Severn Trent Water.
“During the recent heavy rainfall events the offsite public sewer system overflowed, which resulted in large volumes of water running through the development from multiple locations on Station Road. It appears that the existing offsite combined sewage network could not cope with the volume of rain/surface water run-off from upstream and in particular Station Road and the surrounding areas.
“The additional water from the Station Road area flowed into the site drainage system which ran into the balancing pond and, in turn, flooded into the development.
“We have been in dialogue with Severn Trent Water to ensure that this issue is resolved to the satisfaction of our customers, as there clearly seems to be an issue with the offsite sewage system.”
There is a “Go Fund Me” page to help Dave MacDonald and his family. You can find it at: https://www.gofundme.com/29xprlw
– Lucy Stephens
HOW to use the newly-fitted Melbourne Parish Council defibrillator was demonstrated to local residents by Rob and Kim Coe in a roadside presentation on High Street. A group of about 20 members of the public stopped to observe the activity.
TEN children have been turned away from Melbourne schools this year due to lack of space.
The Village Voice asked the county council to supply us with figures showing how many families had not managed to get school places locally in the admissions process this year.
The numbers show that of 81 pupils applying for a place at Melbourne Infants, three did not get in – but they did not live in the catchment area. The family of one of those children is appealing against the decision.
At Melbourne Junior School, seven out of 67 applications were refused a place, of which five are appealing and two lived within catchment.
All 66 pupils applying for a spot at Aston-on-Trent Primary School were granted admission, as with all 48 applications for the neighbouring Weston School.
Seven children were refused a place at Sale & Davys Primary in Barrow-on-Trent, but none is appealing and none is in catchment.
Holly Davis, of Melbourne, was one of the local parents who did not get a place at the junior school despite living in the catchment area.
She said she was “gutted” when she found out her son, James, had not got in to year five.
James is currently at Repton Junior School but Holly had hoped he could attend Melbourne Juniors, having moved here from Repton two years ago.
She said: “I just took it for granted he would get in. I genuinely think that people think moving here they can get into the local school and it will all be fine – but it really isn’t.”
– Lucy StephensTHERE are annual meetings that are simply a legal necessity and others that summarise a year of vital service.
The Melbourne Community Care AGM falls into the second category. At the annual general meeting held in the Assembly Rooms the work of a group of dedicated volunteers was celebrated.
These volunteers drive the community bus for weekly shopping trips for elderly and housebound residents, give them lifts in their private cars to hospital or day care, provide a befriending service to the housebound and run an office to give advice to anyone that calls.
This service is provided without a penny of financial support from the parish, district or county councils. All the money needed comes from the generosity of local people.
n THE annual Findern Fete saw a fancy dress parade, which included lots of children from Findern Primary School.
The event was officially opened by Aleena Naylor, of BBC Radio Derby. Many of the local clubs and organisations supported the fete with activities taking place on The Green, and in the village hall, parish rooms, Old Forge Day Nursery and
the parish church.
Although the weather was variable, there was a great turnout and enthusiasm for next year’s event.
Carnival Queen Elizabeth Holloway and her attendants Ellissa Hancock and Lisabella Scalers are pictured surrounded by a selection of fancy dressers from the parade.
The main source of these vital funds comes through the patrons scheme where local people pledge as little as £1 a week to keep the service going.
Please help by calling in at the office on Derby Road or telephoning a volunteer on 863585.
Remember, if you or your family do not need the service today, you may well do tomorrow.
Saturday 3rd of September, 10am – 4pm at the Sales & Marketing Suite, Willow Park Way, Aston-on-Trent, Derbyshire DE72 2DF
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THE King of Uganda will meet Chellaston Academy pupils as they travel to the country this year for their annual summer working trip.
Chellaston head teacher Kevin Gaiderman said he was “over the moon” that students from the school had made such a positive impression on the East African country that its king had asked to meet them on their trip this summer.
The academy’s pupils have been involved in the Uganda project for the past 10 years, building the John Dickens Orphanage in Kampala for former street children.
Mr Gaiderman said: “I’m very proud of the work the school has done. I’m absolutely over the moon that a member of the Ugandan royal family has requested to meet our students and staff for all the work they’ve done.”
Meanwhile, Mr Gaiderman also gave assurances as to the future of Chellaston’s sixth form, explaining that two A-level courses had been dropped next year due to lack of take-up.
He said work was being done to preserve the “high quality” sixth form at the school while balancing the books, adding that it had run at a £200,000-a-year loss for the past five years because the country’s economic climate had meant serious cutbacks for post-16 education.
That means that next year students will not be able to study further maths – which had three applications – nor Spanish, which had no takers.
He said: “What we are doing is looking to identify how to sustain a high quality, highly effective sixth form provider after students have finished their GCSEs.
“We are running a very successful sixth form.
“Post-16 funding has been drastically cut and I don’t think that people are aware of that as much.
“My sixth form has run at a loss.”
– Lucy Stephens
SAINSBURY’S in Melbourne has spent the last year carrying out fund-raising with the kind support of its customers.
As well as attending the popular Melbourne Wakes to raise funds, colleagues have carried out several in-store treasure hunts.
Store colleagues visited East Midland Airport to present the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance with a cheque for
TREETOPS Hospice will be holding a Bake Off on Sunday, August 7, at Melbourne Hall Courtyard between 11am and 3pm. This is a brand new event, both to Melbourne and for Treetops Hospice Care.
Judging will begin at 11.30am, last bake entries at 1.30pm with the announcement of winners at 2pm.
On the day there will be a myriad of other activities to get involved with from bake sales, games, stalls, selfie area and a Sami Tipi.
1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners for each of four categories:
Chocoholics (fudge/sponge); Best of British (Victoria sponge); Showstopper (challenging/creative/ unique) and Queen of Tarts (Derbyshire's Bakewell tart).
For more details contact Hannah Taylor on 01159 496931.
£5,200.
Voting is now taking place in store to select the next local charity to be adopted. If you would like to nominate a charity, go into the store and complete your vote.
Pictured with members of the Air Ambulance crew are store manager Gary Dunne and colleagues Sue Gray, Kelly Duffy and Jo Taylor.
AN INDOOR climbing zone –the pinnacle of a £1 million refurbishment of leisure facilities in South Derbyshire – has officially opened to the public.
The Apex Climbing Centre is the centrepoint of the new-look Grove Hall in Swadlincote, which has been completely revamped to include a modern dance studio, party rooms, a reception and community areas, with disabled access also improved.
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THE disbanding of the Melbourne Rotary Club will leave a huge hole in village life and particularly local charitable activities. It has played a key part in the community for 63 years since it was formed in 1953.
The Rotary motto says it all “Service above Self” and has been the driving force behind countless fund-raising projects.
Kate Dumelow, who was both the first female member and first female president of the branch in 2008, reflected on some of the achievements of the club.
“We started the first mobile library; we provide awards to the local schools and present every child with a dictionary; we organise the young chef, young writer and young musician of the year competitions.” And there are many more besides.
“One of our proudest achievements has been the Uganda project, where
the village of Bucence in the remote South West has benefitted from water tanks to provide a clean and healthy supply.
“We also funded the establishment of a basic farm with livestock, a school and health centre. Our involvement in that project resulted in a Rotary Presidential citation for an outstanding contribution to humanitarian causes.
“In association with the Swadlincote club, the Kids Out project, was among the most rewarding,” Kate said, “where we took a number of disabled children for a fun day out and to see the enjoyment on their faces was just amazing.”
One of the most successful and instant responses was to the earthquake in Nepal in 2015, said John Burney. In little more than a day Rotary had collected £2,000 to donate to the appeal and people were just queuing to give.
Over the 63 years of operation the club has donated the equivalent of
about £10,000 each year to local and international good causes. The international eradication of polio has been one of the main priorities of the movement. Locally, a good share of that yearly income has come from the Christmas Santa Sleigh, which tours the streets of the village alongside a door to door collection.
“It is hard work, and often cold and wet, but last year it netted about £2,000 for charity,” said Mr Burney.
The club members were also on duty at the annual Melbourne Fun Run. With its appeal to both young and old and courses for the fitter and not so fit members of the community, the day was always brightened by the fancy dress costumes.
Kate still has a huge collection of spare “bunny ears” if anyone would like them!
Speaking at the recent awards event, head teachers Mrs Gibbs and Mrs Whirledge from both Melbourne
Schools said Rotary would be greatly missed.
“Their generous sponsorship for swimming awards, the writing competition, maths competition, dictionaries for each pupil, to mention but a few, will be impossible to replace.”
Along the way the members of the club have had a lot of fun, too. Kate spoke of the occasion when Santa, alias Bob Evans, was truly stuck up the chimney!
Whilst it is terribly sad that the club is closing, it has “given birth” to a “daughter” club in Castle Donington, which is still thriving, and the “parent” club in Derby is still very strong. The inability to recruit new members locally in sufficient numbers has resulted in the decision to close.
“But a few of us will continue to meet but not as a Rotary club, and we hope to still do fund-raising. The rugby club has said it is keen to do Santa’s sleigh at Christmas,” Kate said.
MELBOURNE Rotary Club’s long and fruitful association ended with a final awards celebration at the Melbourne Tea Rooms.
About 80 guests were at the function, including past presidents, the current president and officials, officers from the wider fellowship of clubs and representatives from local groups. They had all gathered to applaud the charity work the club had accomplished, and to celebrate its many achievements.
On display were pennants collected from other clubs across the world, from Chicago to Australia, demonstrating the international connections of the organisation. Photographs from the various projects, most notably the Uganda project, showed just what a difference had been made through the charity work. Memorabilia, like the original club charter, set a tone of nostalgia and sadness for the club’s passing.
David Lee, who was president of the club in 1969, and with almost 60 years of membership is the longest serving member, said it was “such a shame that the club was ending; we have done a tremendous amount of work both locally and internationally and we still have thriving clubs in both Derby, our ‘mother’ club and Castle Donnington, our ‘daughter’ club”.
He identified the contribution to the eradication of polio as one of the organisation’s greatest achievements.
Sid Gregson, now aged 94, who was rewarded with a Paul Harris Fellowship award for his 45 years of membership and service, said “the club will be greatly missed in the area, not just for the good work, but also for the friendships created”.
The event had been organised by the present committee, comprising John Burney, Kate Dumelow and Margaret Sharp, and it was testament to their hard work that over 20 past presi-
dents had been able to make the occasion. Former presidents Mike Thornett had travelled down from Yorkshire, Brian Cooke from Lincoln and John Sephton had come over from Spain.
Speaking of the history of the club Derby president Ben Benfield paid tribute to the original club founder, Clarence Bell, 63 years ago, for his enthusiasm and foresight in starting the branch. The Rotary District Governor Elect, Colin Gell, spoke of how the Melbourne club had a deepseated history with a catalogue of memories and experiences. He paid tribute to all the members who had given freely, generously and selflessly over the years.
In the award ceremony financial awards totalling £10,000 were made to Melbourne Sporting Partnership, local Scouts and Guides, Rainbows, Derby Children’s Holiday Centre, the local Air Ambulance Service, Padley, Fragile X, both Melbourne schools, the parish church, and to the Gambia school project which provides an education for local children there.
Achievement awards were given to club members; Paul Harris Fellowship awards were given to Margaret Sharp, Kate Dumelow, Terry Clay, John Burney and Roger Kington; and a special award for 60 years’ service was given to David Lee. He was immensely proud to receive a watercolour painting of Paul Harris, founder of the movement.
Outlining some of the many achievements of the club, he said this was not a time of sadness but a time of celebration and he passed on words from the Rotary president that “this was not a terminus but a change of trains”.
The closing remarks and the last sounding of the Rotary bell fell to current club president Philip Rosser with a traditional invocation for “Rotary and Peace the World over”.
l ABOVE: Past Melbourne Rotary Club presidents get together. LEFT: David Lee, longest serving member. BOTTOM LEFT: John Sephton, who came over from Spain for the final awards event.‘Not
FORTUNATELY for the 3,000 people who turned up, the rain decided to stop falling and let the sun come out for Castle Donington’s annual Music in the Park, which is put on by the parish council.
This event is mainly funded by a donation from LiveNation, who organise Download, as a thank you to local residents for putting up with the traffic disruption and noise from their event.
Once again it was a huge success. Local boys’ group Adam’s Shed opened proceedings much to the obvious delight of their past music teacher, Rachel Canny, who delighted in their success.
Further acts then included the wonderful Burgundy’s who got the crowd dancing, Spice
Girlz (tribute) who got on the dance floor to dance with their young fans, Various Artists –a local band who truly rocked – and Only One Direction (tribute), who couldn’t believe the atmosphere generated by a simple free family day out. The festival was closed out by regular DJ, MC, Lionel Vinyl’s disco class (pictured). Being a free event, lots of local charities and organisations manage to raise money encircling the crowd with their stalls.
The local rugby club donated a cheque to the Air Ambulance following a charity match they had held in honour of former prop, Carl Davies, who recently lost his battle with cancer.
Children got to try out circus skills, pet snakes and porcupines or play in a bouncy castle.
CASTLE Donington resident Nigel Heaps was named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list to receive an MBE for his voluntary work with the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association (BNTVA).
Nigel’s father Derek was a veteran of the British Nuclear Testing programme and was the BNTVA’s longest serving official up to his death in 2012.
Nigel, who became involved in the organisation in 2009 through his father, played a key role in helping it gain charitable status and was named its first non-veteran chairman the following year.
He delivered a successful professional campaign that gained Prime Ministerial recognition of the sacrifice made by our nuclear veterans and shared their experiences
with the wider public.
He also helped develop a £25million Aged Veterans Fund and oversaw the achievement of consultative status for the BNTVA with the United Nations.
Nigel stood down as BNTVA chairman at the end of 2015 to focus on alleviating suffering and increasing the wellbeing within the nuclear community through his com-
pany, BH Associates, which works to share knowledge and information amongst the world community of nuclear veterans.
He said: “I am highly honoured to receive this honour in recognition not just for my contribution but on behalf of all those, like my late father, who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of British Nuclear Test Veterans and their fami-
MELBOURNE Footpaths Group is leading an evening Melbourne Woodlands Walk on Thursday, July 14.
lies.
“By standing down as BNTVA chairman it allowed new blood into the organisation. This is just as important as doing a great job yourself because you are future proofing something you care deeply about.
“I continue to serve the BNTVA on a voluntary basis as a special advisor to their Trustee Board.”
Starting at 6.30pm from Melbourne's Chip & Pin, the walk, about four miles, will be around some of the recent plantings on the edge of Melbourne.
MFG asks walkers for a donation of £2 to help towards the group's running costs.
MFG welcomes contact from individuals and groups via www.melbournefootpathsgroup.org.uk; Facebook www.facebook.com/MelbourneFootpathsGroup and Twitter @melbournepaths
Your local butchers at Melbourne Hall Craft Centre. Local
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TOP: Mandy Rotherham as The Mad Hatter gives the crowd a wave.
ABOVE: The Oakden School of Dance girls in smiling mood on their float.
BELOW: Carnival Queen Rhiana Palmer is sitting proud during the procession.
BOTTOM ROW: Just the ticket for customers at the bus bar; Nanielle Shearsby, of the Arden Falconry, gets close up and personal with Rowan the Harris Hawk; and it’s full steam ahead for travellers on the Burton Upon Trent Model Engineering Society’s train.
FROM a vision of despair and drowned rats to joy and jubilation, the Melbourne Fete and Carnival once again satisfied the expectations of residents and visitors alike.
Determined not to give in to the weather – including a torrential downpours at 9am – the carnival went ahead as planned and the visitors turned out in large numbers to make it a special and successful event.
Pre-event sales of programmes had given some assurances on numbers to the organising committee and there were still paying customers arriving at 3.30pm.
The Chesterfield Musketeers Marching Band led the carnival procession and also gave a demonstration in the main arena during the afternoon.
Guests of Honour Peter and Sheila Clough led the motor cavalcade in the first of a fleet of five Triumph Stags driven by Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf (aka Jack and Linda Iliffe).
Miss Melbourne and her attendants followed in the other Stags. The winning float for 2016 was judged to be Puddleducks.
Words: TOM MILLS
Pictures: TINA BAKER and PETE CLOUGH
CENTRE LEFT: The Scallywags entry in the float competition.
LEFT: This year’s carnival in full swing.
BELOW: The Chesterfield Cavaliers lead the procession, while Sarah and Rosie Cox, of ‘The Little Camion’, are there to tempt hungry customers.
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With a magnificent stage, almost of major festival proportions, and the introduction of some new attractions, the scene at the school playing fields was set for an entertaining afternoon.
An unusual feature was a red double decker bus that was kitted out as the bar and a scale model of a steam train on rails that provided rides.
There was a variety of entertainment on the stage all afternoon and a whole range of stalls surrounding the main arena. The Roller World mobile skating boot arrived and took up a static position for the afternoon and Melbourne’s own Thunderbirds put in an appearance before setting off on the Mongol Rally with Isaac Gosling at the wheel.
The shop window competition was won by Jenny Williams, of Frocks and Frippery, while the short story competition was won by Amy Flemming, with runners-up, Anna Chantrill and Samuel Wood.
There were some magnificent cakes entered for the Bake Off competition, the winners for each of the three categories being: Children’s Decorated Cup Cake – Madeleine O’Toole; Themed Bake – Mary Stephens; and for the Victoria Sandwich – Layla Mullane.
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AN HISTORICbench has been restored to Weston-on-Trent, ready to be enjoyed for future generations once again.
The 14ft bench made from oak and metal supplied by the Midland Railway Company was originally bought for the village by the parish council in 1934.
Now it has been re-sited following an 18-month absence after it was removed from its position by a local resident.
Present at the re-siting ceremony were Weston residents Roy Holmes and his wife Norma, whose cousin Frank had been at the original 1934 ceremony as a young boy of four.
She said: “He remembers walking up the land from King’s Mills Lane, holding his mum and dad’s hand, going to the ceremony where there was a crowd of people. A bus from Derby came with a lot of people and they joined in as well.”
Over time the bench has been an important focal point for the local community of Weston, which in years gone by was much more disparate than it is today.
Roy Holmes said: “When we were 16, 18, we al-
ways met there.”
Weston Parish Council chair Avril Record said she was “delighted” the bench was once more situated in the heart of the village.
She said: “We’re very pleased – it’s an incredibly important part of Weston’s history.”
The bench was blessed by local vicar the Rev Tony Luke as part of the ceremony.
IT’S Big, it’s Friendly – it’s the Reading Agency’s Giant Summer Reading Challenge.
This year children aged from two to 12 are again invited to sign up to the challenge by undertaking to read six books from their local library.
Children who finish the challenge get a medal and a certificate, sometimes awarded at school.
Children aged three and over are invited to go to Melbourne Library on August 3 to create their own ‘dream jars’ – a project inspired by Roald Dahl’s BFG, which is being released in cinemas this summer. The activity is taking place from 2.30pm to 3.30pm and is free.
IN the March issue of the Village Voice we reported on the plans to carry out a Toad Watch.
The outcome of that activity has now been reported and the results of 2016 Foremarke Toad Crossing are as follows.
Fifteen dedicated volunteers took it in turns to patrol the annual toad crossing at Foremarke for 23 consecutive nights between March 23 and April 16. During that time 854 toads were assisted to cross the quarter mile stretch of road to their traditional breeding grounds in the lake. This compared with 393 helped across in 2015. We recorded 50 fatalities on the road and, sadly, most of these were caused by motorists failing to slow down despite our presence and warning road signs.
Sometimes, motorists appeared to deliberately run toads over even though we highlighted them with powerful torches and signalled to drivers to slow down so we could pick the animals up.
Whilst this is deeply depressing it has to be remembered that this was a minority of drivers and many others slowed down or stopped, often taking an active interest in what we were doing and expressing their support.
Toads, like much of our native wildlife, remain in serious decline from loss of habitat and modern agricultural practices in addition to being run over. Additionally, along with other amphibians they face the threat of a new deadly chytrid fungal disease currently ravaging the continent and which has now been found in exotic amphibians at several captive breeders in the UK.
Like a number of other diseases, this disease has probably been brought to Europe by the exotic pet trade.
– C M-LAT the recent public meeting (May 24) hosted by the Melbourne Sporting Partnership at the Assembly Rooms a question was asked regarding the proposed use of the defunct tennis court in Melbourne, and no-one was able to answer. Now the completion date for the new three allweather courts is nearly upon us can anyone advise what will become of the now overgrown unused facility?
Mr C Hough (address supplied)
l Taking a seat on the historic bench (l-r) are: Jenny Yale, Rose Cook, Pat Tinkler, Norma and Roy Holmes, Meg Ball and Jo Shepard.
THE mighty mountain men from Melbourne Rugby Club recently completed the Three Peaks Challenge.
Andy Gates, Mark Coyne, Jack Fisher, Joseph Devanny and Mike Sinclair decided they wanted to do the challenge to raise money for The Titan Children's Trust, a charity that provides disadvantaged children with the opportunity to have access to activities, recreation, and support.
The Three Peaks is a notoriously difficult task which includes climbing the highest peak in Scotland (Ben Nevis), Scafell Pike in England and, in Wales, Mount Snowdon – all in under 24 hours.
At 07:36am on Saturday, June 11, they started their stopwatches and began the march up Ben Nevis. Tom Howard was roped in to be ‘the dedicated driver’, which consisted of 1,013 miles all in all but decided to join the group climbing Ben Nevis.
They managed to reach the summit of Ben Nevis and get back down in a time of four hours, allowing them to hit the road for the long drive to Scafell Pike (260 miles).
They started Scafell Pike a little later in the evening than planned, around 6pm.
The weather was horrendous with torrential rain and very low visibility. They reached the top in a strong time of 1hour 30minutes. However, due to poor visibility they ventured down the wrong path, and were met by an older couple who were in a state of distress.
The lady was in shock and the husband very panicky whilst they took shelter from the bitter wind. The team decided to stay with the couple to try to calm them whilst on the phone to Mountain Rescue as it was
MELBOURNE’S 41 Club chairman for the last two years, Micky Walters (right), handed over to new chairman Ron Warren at the club’s recent meeting at the Hardinge Arms.
The 41 club is a local, national and international organisation formed to provide a way for members of Round Table to continue their friendships and, if possible, participate in local community service initiatives or charity work when they reach the age of 40, when they were required to retire from Round Table.
The young leaving age for Tablers was intended to keep the membership vibrant and enthusiastic.
The Melbourne club has around a dozen members who meet every month at the Hardinge Arms.
beginning to turn dark.
After around 45 minutes they were directed down a more daunting route of the mountain to the bottom. A quick goodbye to the couple and they were back on the road driving by 10pm.
The team caught up on their sleep on the journey to Snowdon whilst Tommy drove.
They began to scale Snowdon at 3:15am in the dark. The weather was much drier
for this climb. Trundling up the route was difficult and very heavy on the legs, but reaching the top they were met with a breath-taking sunrise and a rainbow to lift everyone’s moods.
After walking approximately 27 miles in total, the final completion time was 23hours 06minutes. To date, they have raised over £2,000. If you would like to donate, please visit www.titantrust.org.uk
from 4-7pm
l THE reward of a breath-taking sunrise greeted the Three Peaks Challengers when they reached the summit of Mount Snowdon. l YEAR 4 pupils at Aston on Trent Primary School pictured enjoying their Scooter Safe training.RIGHT: Residents of Spinney Hill made sure they enjoyed their day.
THE villages of South Derbyshire were transformed into a sea of red, white and blue as the flags came out and the bunting was hoisted high to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday.
The local area was the scene of several different street parties in June, organised by residents and organisations to honour the monarch’s birthday celebrations.
Parties were held at King’s Newton, Melbourne Parish Church, at Sweet Leys Way,
At the Annual Meeting in May I was elected as Chairman of the Parish Council, taking over from Wendy Earp, who for the last two years has done an excellent job and I thank her for all her hard work.
My term of o ce started with the vacancies for three Councillors generated by resignations for personal reasons and other commitments, so thank you to Rose Mini e, Chris Howard and Malcolm Stockhill for their loyal service and contribution to Melbourne Parish Council. We have now co-opted three new Councillors to the council welcoming Tom Gates, Terry Summerlin and Michael Usher.
The de brillator is now in place on the wall of the public toilets. A demonstration of how to use it was attended by a number of local residents and shopkeepers in the area on Tuesday June 21st.
The improvements and repairs to the Cemetery Chapel are progressing and a new o ce should be in place shortly.
The Council have purchased a ag pole and Union Flag for use in the Market Place for special occasions.
Unfortunately Melbourne su ered greatly with the recent heavy rainfall with ooding in many areas causing havoc to many homes. This will be raised at the STW Liaison meeting on July 1st.
Margaret Sharp, Chair, Melbourne Parish Council
Spinney Hill, Weston-on-Trent Primary School, Melbourne Infant School and Melbourne Senior Citizens’ Centre.
Pre-school children also got a chance to have a taste of the celebrations with events held at Kangaroos, Puddleducks and Scallywags in Melbourne.
The centre of Castle Donington turned into one huge street party.
Clare Owens helped organise the Queen’s birthday street party for Spinney Hill resi-
dents, which included face painting for the children and one attendee of the same age as Her Majesty herself.
She said the occasion had provided a lovely opportunity for neighbours to get to know one another.
“It was excellent,” she said.
“Everyone got together and we’ve all talked a lot more than we did before. Everybody loved it and everyone now wants to do it every year. We think we might!”
LEFT: Youngsters having fun at the Scallwags party.
BELOW
LEFT: The Senior Citizens’ Centre party.
BOTTOM
LEFT: The bellringers at Melbourne Parish Church.
ABOVE: Lauren Elks waving the flag at the Sweet Leys Party
We exhibit permanently at... Millpond Antiques, Melbourne Hall Visitors Centre, Church Square, Melbourne (Closed on Mondays)
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JUDITH VALERIE ARMITAGE1940-2016
FAMILY members and local friends joined Colin Armitage at Bretby Crematorium to celebrate the life of his wife, Val. Lifelong friend, David Dore of Wilson, gave the eulogy.
Valerie was born in Mirfield, West Yorkshire. One of four sisters, she trained as a tailoress and married Colin, her school sweetheart, in 1962. David reminded everyone of the work Val had undertaken for Breedon. Having been a Brownie leader in Yorkshire, when she moved south she found there were not enough girls for a pack so she helped establish a preschool play group, became its leader and served for 25 years. Many of her now grown-up children attended the service of thanksgiving.
Val’s talents with the needle were frequently in demand; she made costumes for many pantomimes and for numerous school and community events.
Val’s other great love was campanology, expert with both hand and church bells.
She and Colin have together rung many peals at home and abroad. They even took the Breedon Handbell Ringers to
THE United Reformed Church in Melbourne lost its oldest member with the death, after a short illness, of 97-year-old Win Taylor.
the Czech Republic where they made enduring friendships.
Colin and Val’s son, Howard, now living in Australia with partner Tanya and beloved grandchild Charlotte, were here during Val’s final days and they look forward to welcoming granddad to their home later this year. Colin, who has lost his best friend, thanked everyone for their support and kind thoughts.
In the evening the Breedon Bellringers rang a muffled peal in her memory. Refreshments were served at the Hollybush in Breedon after the ceremony. A collection was held for Macmillan Services at the Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust.
THE celebratory summer garden party of Melbourne's Probus Club was a great success at the Melbourne Catholic Church gardens.
A cloudy but warm day saw a good gathering of over 70 members and their guests celebrate the anniversary of the club, first founded in 1976.
With a free glass of Prosecco, and an excellent buffet lunch prepared by the ladies of the Melbourne WI –completed by a feast of strawberries –everyone voted the celebration a success.
Guests from both the Probus clubs of Castle Donington and Ashby joined the party.
President John Tatam thanked all those who had worked to make the party a success, and the WI ladies stood to accept the applause of all present.
n The Probus club is for retired men, and the Melbourne group currently has 40 members. It meets every month, and each year organises several social events for members and their families.
She had lived all her long life in North Street, in a number of different houses (even when the official address was Alma Street, the back door opened onto North Street), and it was her wish to remain there for the rest of her life – and she did, all but her last three days, when she was in the Royal Derby Hospital.
Win was one of six children, having four sisters and a brother. She had a daughter Marilyn, who emigrated to America, but who sadly has been seriously ill for a considerable time. For many years Win flew over to see the family.
She was particularly proud of her granddaughters, Wendy and Laura. Having been left a widow for the second time, she realised that making the long journey alone was getting too much for her.
Many will remember Win as the well-dressed lady with the immaculate hair style, who wasted no time in getting from one place to another, and often leaving much younger ones trailing in her wake.
In these modern days when commitment seems to mean so little to so many, if Win ‘belonged’ to anything she was there.
Having been received into membership of the Church in 2006, you could rely on her being there to share in both Morning and Evening Worship.
It was only this last winter when she said: “I’d probably be
better just coming in the morning and staying at home during the dark nights ‘till spring comes.”
Reliability which applied to Sundays was carried on through the week. If Win joined any organisation/club she was there at its meetings, being a regular at Ladies Bright Hour, Ladies Own, Friday Lunches, Coffee Mornings and Social Evenings and she loved her days out on church coach trips.
Over the years, and particularly since being alone, she was always very grateful for the love and friendship of many people who cared for her, often saying “aren’t I lucky”.
Win’s great faith sustained her through some trying and anxious times and she has certainly left a fine example to follow.
A Service of Thanksgiving for Win’s life, conducted by the Revd Brian Norris was held in the United Reformed Church. The Church acknowledges with grateful thanks donations made in Win’s memory totalling £420.
– Margaret Loydall (Church secretary).
n THE Friends of Melbourne Parish Church Jazz event takes place on Friday, October 14. The star performers will be the Gascoyne-O’Higgins Quartet. Tickets will be available through Melbourne Art Festival outlets.
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SPORTY youngsters at Melbourne Junior School are celebrating “unprecedented” success on the pitch and track this year – with many more taking part in sports thanks to a new drive to boost participation.
The school launched a new PE curriculum last September with the aim of increasing taking part in sport and encouraging healthy lifestyles.
That has meant more than 150 children having a go at a sporting extra-curricular activity over the year – many more than in the past.
Over the year they have taken part in 20 different sporting events, notched up victories in a wide range of tournaments and reached county level, with girls taking a keen interest in games such as football and cricket.
PE co-ordinator Jim Jenkinson said the school had welcomed external trainers through the South Derbyshire School Sports Partnership, with staff also getting extra training in the further development of PE.
Successes for the school have included:
WANT to find out more about the fascinating history of Castle Donington?
For anyone interested in the past there will be a series of guided historical walks around the local area as part of the national Festival of Archaeology this month.
The first guided walk takes place on Sunday, July 17, at 2.30pm when the topic will be the history of Cavendish Bridge, led by Bruce Townsend. Anyone interested should meet in the car park of the Old Crown in Shardlow. Tickets are £4 but children are free.
There will also be Wednesday walks on July 20 and 27 at 10.30am around the historic centre of Castle Donington with Delia Richards. To take part, meet in the Market Place. Again, tickets are £4 with children going free.
On the same days at 2pm you can also go on a guided walk around the parish church of St Edward King and Martyr. Anyone interested is asked to meet at the church porch.
Meanwhile, Castle Donington’s Open Gardens are being held in aid of the museum at 2pm and 6pm on Sunday, July 24, at a cost of £2 per person. For more information, see www.castledoningtonmuseum.org
l winning the South Derbyshire seven-a-side football league and coming runners-up in the South Derbyshire Schools Swadlincote Lions seven-a-side competition;
l the girls indoor five-a-side football team sweeping all before them to win South Derbyshire league and cup competitions;
l a team of 12 athletes winning the Sportshall Athletics competition, which saw them qualifying for the county final;
l a year 6 mixed football team reaching the finals of the National Knock-out Cup Under11s football at Derbyshire and Derby City;
l a mixed team coming runners-up in the Mixed Kwik Indoor Cricket competition;
l a mixed rugby side named runners-up in a local tournament;
l a school mixed cricket team triumphing in the South Derbyshire schools competition at Ticknall Cricket Club;
l the school’s cross-country team named overall winners at an inter-schools contest at Rosliston Country Park; and
l the girls’ cricket team representing the school at the County School Games Finals.
More than 70 pupils from Melbourne Junior School will fight to keep the South Derbyshire Area Sports Trophy on July 20, wearing new T-shirts sponsored by Melbourne Print Shop.
The school would like to thank everyone who has volunteered to make such a difference to their sporting achievements this year, including school staff, parents who offer transport, Jenny Bancroft, who has helped to administer all the sport this year, Ellis Dacre and John Lewis, who have helped with footbal, and Mrs Dumelow, Mrs Oxspring, Mrs Hughes and Mrs Miller, who run a weekly netball club.
Mr Jenkinson said: “It’s an absolute privilege to see girls and boys competing together and representing Melbourne Junior School so well. We are extremely proud of all their achievements.”
Paul Wilson, owner of Melbourne Print Shop, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the school with their sports clothing. Being associated with such success is fantastic!”
THE second annual Melbourne Classic Car Show is going to be held at Melbourne Assembly Rooms on Sunday, August 21.
The organisers, Matt Harnden and Ian Casson, are hoping it will be even better than last year’s event with some amazing vehicles, refreshments available all day and other attractions including live entertainment.
“We hope to have a clearer timetable than last year, especially for the drive through the village, so that people know exactly what is happening. We are also hoping for a few more cars than last year, with space for around 80,” they said.
The show opens at 10am and will run to 4pm, with the village parade starting at 3.30pm.
Last year, with an estimated crowd of over 1,000, the event raised money for the Guides and they used it to take all the guide company to the pantomime at Christmas. This was raised mainly through the raffle, with prizes donated so generously by Melbourne businesses.
The prizes will be for the Organiser’s Best in Show, and the People’s choice. The Chip and Pin micropub is sponsoring the Organiser’s prize.
Ian and Matt are looking for help and volunteers for stewarding on the day, for more sponsors and there are still spaces for any group wanting to set up a stall. For further information, visit www.melbourneclassics.co.uk or telephone 862145.
l MELBOURNE Junior School Sporting Super Stars line up wearing their new blue T-shirts sponsored by Melbourne Print Shop.
To the right are PE co-ordinator Jim Jenkinson, sponsor Paul Wilson and head teacher Mrs Jane Whirledge.
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n MELBOURNE Royal British Legion has once more proved its role of supporting the community and local sporting clubs. Rolfe Finney (chairman) presented the players and coaching staff of Melbourne United U11s with a cheque for £300.
Don Miller (team manager) thanked Mr Finney and the staff at the Legion for their kind donation and assured them that the money would be put straight to good use by the football club with its thirteen and ever growing number of youth teams.
To express interest in supporting Melbourne United Football club contact Mark Jackaman on 07967 694198.
MELBOURNE Sporting Partnership says that good progress is being made at the Cockshut Lane recreation ground.
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Steve Hollingsworth, chair of the business and operations committee, said: “Despite the inclement weather, progress on the building is proceeding on schedule; the tennis courts and car park have just been surfaced, and structural completion will be achieved by the end of July. This will then be followed by a period of acquisition and installation of fixtures and fittings.
“The opening weekend will be on September 10 and 11. Saturday will be a club day when the rugby, football and cricket teams will all be playing and using the facility, and Sunday will be the main opening event.
“The MSP has appointed two employees, David Goalen as operations manager responsible for the day to day running of the facility, and Jane Radcliffe administrator.
“Both David and Jane are local residents with relevant experience and are looking forward to being involved in the launch and ongoing management.”
Councillor Linda Chilton, Councillor John Harrison Councillor Jim Hewlett
KING’S Newton Bowls Club members said farewell to Norman Widdowson, their groundsman for over 20 years, with a presentation at the clubhouse on Packhorse Road.
The clubhouse was packed with members, family and friends to pay tribute to Norman. The green has been the envy of many of visiting teams for years due to Norman’s dedication and commitment to KNBC.
at Melbourne Assembly Rooms 11 am to 12 noon
Unit 9, Potters Yard, Potter Street, Melbourne DE73 8HX
Telephone: 01332 865510
l David GoalenChairman Neil Hill said: “Seeing Norman on the green on Christmas Day at 12 o'clock preparing the green for the annual Boxing Day competition; that's commitment!”
Norman has maintained bowling greens for many years and has often been recognised as the best in the game. For many years he was a top Crown Green Bowler in his own right winning many top awards.
TICKNALL Cricket Club is already halfway through the season, with all four senior teams in mid-table positions in their divisions.
The 1st X1, with two wins, have struggled in the batting top order, with Tom Wood being the leading batsman with an average of 42. He has been selected to play for Derbyshire 2nds, together with 17-year-old James Sookies, who will be keeping wicket.
At the end of June Ticknall began the Premier League Cup campaign against Derbyshire Academy and, in a high scoring game at The Grange, won by eight runs. The scores were Ticknall 262-5, Academy 254-7. Paul Borrington scored his first century of the season, Luke Harvey chipped in with 50 and Richie Woodburn 58 not out, while Zain Abbas took two wickets for 32 in his 10 overs.
The 2nd X1 were promoted to division 3 for this season and are in fourth place, making a great start at the higher level. They currently have six batsmen averaging 25-plus, and the main bowlers, Zac Lucas, Ollie Cammage and
Ousam Khizer, have all taken over 20 wickets and look like having a great season.
The 3rd X1 and 4th X1 have moved grounds and are now playing at Woodville. They have made a solid start to the season, with both Jon Coxon and Andy Butler averaging 50 with the bat and Joe Gadsby, Mark Payne and Tim Butler taking a number of wickets.
The new practice nets were officially opened by the chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, Cllr Pat Murray on June 23, with SDDC making a generous donation to enable the project to go ahead.
The numerous junior teams are all playing on a weekly basis, all having their share of success.
A special mention goes to Callan Harvey, who hit a century for Derbyshire U17s against Staffordshire U17s.
Socially, there are several events on the calendar including the Last Night of the Proms, with a Disney theme, on Friday, July 15, and the annual beer festival on July 15/16/17.
n MELBOURNE Swifts Two, are one of Melbourne Table Tennis club’s success stories.
In the four-year existence of the club, Swifts Two won division four of the Derby and District Table Tennis league last season and have followed this up by winning division three this season.
The club is going from strength to strength and will have four teams competing in the DDTT league divisions one to four at the start of the 2016-17 season. Pictured with their trophies are (l-r): Paul Fox, Carl Barcock, Stuart Uprichard, Jonathan Wood and Adam Essex.
THE Aviva Women’s Cycling Tour came to Derbyshire for two of the five stages.
Stage three from Ashbourne to Chesterfield was won by Lizzie Armitstead and she was wearing the yellow jersey for the start of stage four from Nottingham to Stoke on Trent via South Derbyshire.
Riders from 22 different countries were represented on the rider list, with Dutch riders the most dominant, totalling 18 of the 95 riders at the start of the tour.
Rider numbers had reduced by the start of stage four as a result of withdrawals due to injuries but it was still a fiercely
competitive field that included several world champions.
There was little between the riders as they made their way through South Derbyshire from Elvaston through to Swadlincote in a tightly packed peleton but they passed quickly by. With police motorcycle outriders leading the field and support cars for the various teams, it was an exciting cavalcade even before the riders came into view.
It was only at Hartshorne that the field had stretched out before taking on board the first sprint of the day to Woodville.
For those viewing the race at Stanton by Bridge there was
time to see the procession cross the Causeway but at the bottom of the hill leading into Ticknall, the peloton passed in a blur. It was all over very quickly but it was exciting whilst it lasted and there seemed to be a lot more cyclists on the road after the competitors had long passed by.
n Tour leader Lizzie Armitstead finished in sixth and extended her lead in the overall classification after taking bonus seconds in both intermediate sprints. The world champion finished safely at the head of the main peloton on the finale stage five and won the overall by 11 seconds.
JUST like the past month's weather, Melbourne Town Cricket Club’s form has been near disastrous.
The club had a very difficult June, the first team beginning with a heavy 127-run home defeat to top of the table Mickleover, who hit 219-8 batting first.
Marc Towell took 4-58 but that was as good as it got as Town were shot out for just 91, Matt Briers top scorer with 27.
A week later, away to Etwall, Melbourne's bowling attack was in much better form with skipper Alex Slater leading the way with 4-12 supported by Briers (4-44) as the home side were shot out for just 109.
But when it came to Melbourne's turn to bat they were bowled
out for a paltry 46.
A third defeat on the trot followed at home against Lullington Park 2nd XI. The first team could muster only 108 all out, thanks mainly to Slater (34) and Mark Rossi (22).
With the ball, Slater made Lullington fight for their runs taking 4-30 but lack of runs saw Melbourne fall to a four wicket defeat.
The first team's final match of the month was away to Alvaston & Boulton 2nd X1 the following week and summed up their luck for June.
At 96-2 off 19 overs with opener Faren Price 43 not out, the rain came, causing the match to be abandoned – the only one in their league to fall foul to the weather.
l Melbourne Town Cricket Club’s 2nd Xl: (back row l-r) Alex Blackhall, Deon Dube, Sam Adcock, James Hogwood, Simon Fletcher and Stephen Goalen; (front row l-r) Arun Iyer, Paul Scrimshaw, Dan Marshall (captain), Mark Hirons and Andy Holden.
MELBOURNE Town 2nd team has also struggled. Beginning the month away to Draycott 1st Xl, they posted a testing total of 130, thanks mainly to 44 from James Smith. But they ended up losing by five wickets with Draycott easing home with 16 overs left.
Once again the rain ruined the team's next match at home to Derby Congs 3rd Xl. They had bowled Congs out for just 132 with 3-34 from James Hogwood and 3-28 by Julian Humpidge doing the damage.
A brisk 49 from Mark Hirons plus 29 not out from Simon Fletcher seemed to be taking the 2nds to victory, but rain came on 114-4 to cause the game to be abandoned.
A superb spell of 5-30 by Hogwood helped bowl home side Dunstall 3rds out for just 126, but once again the batting let them down as Dan Marshall's men slipped to 79 all out and a 47-run defeat.
The final game of the month saw the rain come to save the seconds this time.
They had begun well in restricting visitors Walton-on-Trent 2nd Xl to 100-8, thanks mainly to a brilliant spell of 4-9 by Stephen Goalen, but Town were holding on at 44 -7 when the wet stuff came to cause yet another abandoned game.
THE third XI’s form mirrored that of the club's other two teams as they began June being bowled out for just 48 by high flying Burton as they lost by eight wickets.
The following day, away to Ticknall, the home side had scored 146-4 with Melbourne 22-0 in reply when the rain came and forced yet another abandonment.
In the following match, Bruno Rost's men were bowled out for 73 at home to Kirk Langley with Alex Roome and James Flower top scoring, but the margin of defeat was eight wickets.
The thirds’ final match of June, away to West Hallam, was rained off without a ball being bowled.
The club is glad to see the back of the month and can only hope for better weather and results in July.
The club would like to thank the month's ball sponsors, East Midlands Self Storage Ltd, Scallywags Nursery, Melbourne Royal British Legion, J P Springthorpe & Co and Wayne Spiers Butchers.
