Melbourne Village Voice February 2023

MELBOURNE TO GET NEW

£17M SEWER SYSTEM

A MAJOR £17million project to provide Melbourne with a new sewer system will start this year.

Severn Trent Water has said it will be delivering the “vital project” which would help minimise the impact of flooding in the future

A spokesperson said: “We will be delivering a £17 million programme to refurbish and upgrade the sewer system which serves our customers in Melbourne

“This scheme will separate the surface water and sewage systems, ensuring that it can handle the more extreme weather events that we ' re experiencing through climate change, and prevent future incidents of flooding

“This is a vital project that will ensure a reliable, modern sewer system for the residents of Melbourne and minimise impacts from flooding

“We know that essential works like these can be disruptive, and we will be working closely with the county council and our contractors to minimise any inconvenience to residents while we make this vital upgrade

“We will be delivering this project in phases and will be communicating our plans in more detail –through letters sent directly to residents, information

by Lucy Stephens

drop-in sessions and via the Press and social media –closer to the time ”

At the latest meeting of Melbourne Parish Council, where news of the works was communicated by a representative of a local business, councillors agreed that, while there would be local disruption, the new system was necessary after terrible flooding in recent years

Cllr Robert Parker said: “Unfortunately, the work has got to be done, for all our sakes ”

Particularly severe flooding hit Melbourne in 2014 and 2016 with a torrential storm on the latter occasion being described as “Biblical” by many residents who said they had never seen anything like it

On both occasions the sewers could not cope with the sheer volume of water which caused human waste to enter several people’s homes

One resident described water levels so high that they were coming out of the toilet

Over the past few years public meetings have been held in Melbourne which representatives from Severn Trent Water and local councils have attended, and reported on progress to investigate the causes of flooding in the local area

THIS May Rev Tony Luke will be leaving his parish in Aston-on-Trent to fly to impoverished Nakuru in Kenya with Derby County Community Trust

He talked to Women’s Institute members in Aston about why he is looking forward to his fourth trip; how, despite the extreme poverty of the region, the mobile signal is still better than in Aston, and why the smiles on the faces of the children make the challenging times worthwhile.

Tony is pictured wearing the bracelet in the colours of the Kenyan flag, made from plastic sourced from the municipal rubbish dump in Nakuru He has not taken the bracelet off since he acquired it in 2017, to remind him of the children of Kenya he has met

Full story and pictures on Pages 10-11

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Quiet location with low maintenance garden.

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Downstairs WC. Good sized living room. 3 bedrooms,

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12 MOIRA STREET, MELBOURNE

Newly refurbished 2 bed bungalow with large garden and plenty of o -road parking. Modern kitchen with some white goods. Light and airy living room with bay window. Bathroom with shower over bath.

2 bedrooms looking out to the garden.

EPC - D. £1200 PCM/ DEPOSIT £1380

5 HATTONS COURT, MELBOURNE

3 bed terraced property with o road parking and garage. Quiet location with low maintenance garden and access to playing elds at the rear. Fully equipped kitchen with all white goods. Pleasant living room with patio doors. 2 double bedrooms plus 1 single bedroom and family bathroom.

EPC - D. £950 PCM/ DEPOSIT £1090

COMING SOON

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2 bed cottage in Breedon on the Hill

1 bed terrace in Melbourne

Substantial 3 bed property in Melbourne

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Devolution plan ‘is not for us’

THE flagship devolution deal offered to the East Midlands, promising £1 14billion additional funding and additional powers delegated to a new mayoral authority, was soundly rejected at an extraordinary meeting of South Derbyshire District Council.

The deal offered by central government aims to empower the four biggest authorities – Nottingham and Derby City and county councils – to form a East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to access a long term investment funding stream of £1 14billion over 30 years for economic growth

In responding to the consultation process on the deal a resolution was passed by the district council to reject support for the scheme, which was described as a “hastily contrived proposal” and “not in the best interests of the residents of South Derbyshire”

The resolution was narrowly passed with the Labour group all supporting it whilst the Conservative group voted against

The proposal was also opposed on a “geographical basis of the devolution deal linking Derbyshire with Nottinghamshire to form the mayoral authority”

by Frank Hughes

The outcome of the consultation process, which closed on January 9, is awaited A spokesperson for Derbyshire County Council said: “The results of the consultation are not yet available Ipsos, who managed the consultation on behalf of (the four councils) are still in the process of checking and analysing all the data, including resolving any duplicate responses A full report is expected to be ready for publication in March ”

In the meantime some £50million, not dependent on the devolution proposals going ahead, has been offered for improvements in South Derbyshire including:

n a new junction on the A50 to provide connections to the East Midlands Freeport and the Toyota site next to junction 4 and to unlock land for major development in the South Derby Growth Zone

n a new link road from the junction into the Infinity Garden Village and the Rolls-Royce Factory The funding will help unlock the potential of the Infinity Garden Village, to include pubs and restaurants, a community hall, a primary school and shops

Currently open Wednesday 10am - 8pm ursday to Sunday 10am - 4pm for breakfast, lunch, homemade cakes, scones and a whole counter full of goodies - Booking is required for A ernoon Teaank you all so much for your patience in what will hopefully be the last of many changes we’ve had to make!

Much love, Lou and the team x

Picture: @JansenBrownPhotography

VIPs help gallery celebrate

THE Creative Melbourne Gallery celebrated the first anniversary of opening at the end of January with a visit from some VIPs

Elizabeth Fothergill, His Majesty s Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, visited the gallery along with Frank McArdle, chief Executive of South Derbyshire District Council (SDDC); David Richards, business advisor for SDDC; Gail Archer, manager of Visit South Derbyshire; Councillor Paul Dunn, chair of SDDC, accompanied by Lesley Dunn; Councillor Kevin Richards, leader of SDDC; and Councillor Jim Hewlett from Melbourne

The visit was an opportunity for Creative Melbourne to share the development of its gallery and studios over the past year and introduce some of the team including directors Sharon Brown and Frank Hughes; gallery manager Kay Maddocks, Anna Battersby and resident Artists Patrick Twiss Prentice and April Young

The gallery is staffed by a team of volunteers who help out on one or two half days each month

Sharon Brown says that the “fantastic team” of volunteers who support the gallery and the Melbourne Festival are the backbone of the organi-

sation and it would not be able to operate without them

She said: “If you would like to find out more about joining the team of volunteers, drop into the gallery We guarantee you will get a warm welcome from the enthusiastic team The gallery changes exhibitions regularly and has a fantastic programme of themed exhibitions this summer

“A new development at the gallery is the recent introduction of creative workshops led by local artists working with small groups this spring, so if your new year resolution was to learn to do something new why not join the Watercolours for Beginners with Sparks Arts, Papercuts with Connie Wan-Docksey, or Wire Flowers with Judith Brown?”

Next month the gallery will be launching Spaces to Create – a hot desking area where artists, designers, writers and creatives can take a space for a day, week or month

Sharon added: “The gallery has become a destination for people coming to Melbourne and a lot has happened in the past year

“We can’t wait to see what happens next at the Gallery this year ”

Ian William Grimadell

Wendy and family would like to sincerely thank our wonderful friends and neighbours for the beautiful cards and flowers received after the sudden sad loss of Ian. Your kind words and support have been such a comfort to us.

A special thank you to Tony for being there when needed. Thank you to everyone who attended Ian's funeral service. A collection raised over £520 which has been shared between the Air Ambulance and Royal British Legion.

Tree-mendous! Sarah may hit global jackpot

by Lucy Stephens

AN inspirational project devised in Melbourne is in the running for a major international environmental prize.

‘Think like a Tree’, a multibranch project including a book and training programmes, is the brainchild of Sarah Spencer, who has been delivering her research at Whistlewood Common

Now the innovative thinking of Think like a Tree has been shortlisted for a major global £225,000 prize sponsored by ethical cosmetics company Lush

The 2023 Lush Spring Prize saw more than 350 applications representing in excess of 40 countries, all with ideas for environmental and social regeneration of the planet

Sarah’s Think like a Tree is one of 73 to have made the final shortlist, where it is named in the Influence category

Founded in 2017, Sarah’s idea came from recognising how nature-inspired design could be applied to humans too

The aim is to bring ideas derived from nature into the mainstream, recognising its importance as a teacher, and eco-systems as valuable models for human systems

The project includes a book: ‘Think like a Tree: the natural principles’ guide to life’; a programme supporting individuals to design the life they want with the ethics of ‘Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share’ woven in; and a Think Like a Forest programme for businesses and organisations The project has seen 17 facilitators trained at Whistlewood Common with the movement expanding globally this year

Sarah said: “The idea of learning from nature’s wisdom is gaining ground in a number of different spheres – from rewilding and regenerative agriculture, to economics, wellbeing and regenerative leadership, so I am delighted that Think like a Tree’s work in bringing this to a mainstream audience has been recognised

“Our programmes support individuals and organisations to be a force for good in the world, both in social and ecological terms, allowing people and planet to thrive

“I would love to thank everyone who has sup-

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ported Think like a Tree on its journey, and acknowledge the dedication of Think like a Tree facilitators who develop and deliver high quality training and resources to a wide variety of audiences

“To be shortlisted amongst projects from around the globe is truly humbling, and I hope this will bring inspiration to all those sitting at home worried about the state of the world, yet wondering whether they are too small to make a difference ”

Other shortlisted projects are responding to global challenges such as climate change, Covid19 and the war in Ukraine

The prize is now in its fifth cycle, by the end of which it will have distributed more than £1million to regenerative projects across the world

Winners will be announced in May

l Sarah Spencer (above) and a Think like a Tree course in the roundhouse at Whistlewood Common (below)

Surgery appointment frustration aired at council

CONTINUED frustration regarding problems getting an appointment at Melbourne Surgery have been voiced at a public meeting

Members of Melbourne Parish Council aired their concerns on behalf of local residents at its latest meeting on February 7

The meeting in the Assembly Rooms heard how there was regularly a queue of people waiting outside the surgery from 7 30am – sometimes in below freezing temperatures this year – waiting to be let into the warm at 8am when its doors open

That was because, councillors said, of continued difficulties in getting a doctor ’s appointment when phoning up at 8am

Cllr Sheila Hicklin said: “I feel very sorry for the elderly in our community ”

The surgery has said its opening hours start at 8am and that opening up its doors sooner would mean paying staff to work longer hours

Dr Syed Ahmed, a partner at the surgery, responded to the Village Voice after hearing of councillors’ concerns on behalf of the community

He said he was very conscious of problems experienced by patients in trying to get appointments, but that the surgery’s staffing issues were being seen across the board in the NHS

Dr Ahmed said it was proving very difficult to retain its reception staff who bore the brunt of patients’ frustration when they got through on the phone

In addition, the practice is also trying to recruit GP staff but, having advertised for months, they have not received a single application

Melbourne Surgery also has a vacancy for an urgent care practitioner as the previous incumbent of the role retired in November

Melbourne Blue ... name given to new paint shade by school’s pupils

CUSTOMERS wanting to invest in a lick of paint will be able to buy “Melbourne Blue” up and down the country after local children were given their say.

Now the school hall at Melbourne Infant School has been adorned with the new shade in a project from a housebuilder and decorating centre.

Davidsons Homes, which is building at Mill Gardens in Melbourne, and Brewers Decorators Centres teamed up to give the school hall a fresh new look

Brewers challenged the children to name two paint colours – sky blue and navy blue – which were used in the project.

Penguin class won the competition with their suggestion of “Melbourne Blue” for the lighter colour, while Koala class chose “Neptune Blue” for the navy.

Head teacher Charlotte Gibbs said: “A huge thank you to Davidsons and Brewers who have not only painted our school hall a lovely fresh new colour, but have also set the children a really enjoyable challenge

“The students loved thinking about possibilities for the names, and it’s nice to know that the name ‘Melbourne’ will be used up and down the country.”

Stephanie King, sales director for Davidsons Homes, said: “We always try to support communities around our sites, and the area around Mill Gardens is no exception.

“When we heard that the hall in the local school was in need of a refresh, we knew we wanted to help, and Brewers were kind enough to work with us on it

“We really hope that the children enjoy playing in the hall, which is now bright and colourful in two lovely shades of blue.”

by Lucy Stephens

Dr Ahmed reiterated that problems recruiting staff – which contributed to difficulties in getting an appointment – were a national NHS issue and by no means unique to Melbourne

The surgery has said it is doing its best in a difficult situation in trying to recruit and retain staff

A new telephone system is being installed at the surgery which, it is hoped, will be live by May

A spokesperson said: “Appointments are available online, in person, or on the telephone Family members can also have access if the patient provides their written consent Pre-bookable appointments are also available for three working days ahead and also for Saturdays ”

The surgery has said that if patients have a complaint to make, there is a proper procedure for them to do so and details were on its website

Flying visit to the carnival

REPRESENTATIVES from East Midlands Airport will be at Melbourne Festival this year when members of the public will be able to quiz them

Colleen Hempson, the airport’s community engagement manager, told the latest meeting of Melbourne Parish Council of its outreach plans in the local area

She said the airport would be part of Melbourne Festival and members of the public “will be able to talk to us about anything they would like to!”

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NEW PAINT JOB (back l-r) Steven Edwards, Head of Davidsons Homes Customer Service, Melbourne Infant School Headteacher Charlotte Gibbs and Ben Beadman, Davidsons Homes’ Customer Service Inspections Manager; (front l-r) Melbourne Infant School students Noah, Harry, Aaryan, Phoebe, Darcey, Forrest, Finley and Nathaniel with Tom Cave from Brewers Decorators Centres

Rap for council house rent fees

MELBOURNE district councillor Martin Fitzpatrick has criticised a three per cent increase in council house rent fees, saying the local authority should get its own house in order first.

The increase was voted in at a Housing and Communities Committee and confirmed at a recent Finance Committee It will mean tenants' rent bills going up from April

Commenting after the initial meeting, Cllr Fitzpatrick said:

“Tonight, we have seen a proposal to increase rents for council house tenants by three per cent from April 2023 On face value this may not seem excessive, but I am afraid it disguises some very significant issues we are seeing with our council houses

“The total rental income for SDDC (South Derbyshire District Council) is around £13m per year, so a three per cent increase would bring in a little under £400,000 extra, but in our current financial year we are predicting to lose around £417,000 from properties that stay empty for far too long ” He pointed out that the ‘void’

by Frank Hughes

period between tenancies was currently running at around six months – when the council missed out on any income –whereas for many years, it was an average of one month He described this delay and consequent loss of revenue as “simply unacceptable”

Cllr Fitzpatrick also pointed out that the council has a multimillion pound fund to acquire or build new council houses and, if they were acquired as a priority, they would be generating new rental income as well as satisfying the demand for council house accommodation

These ringfenced capital funds can only be used for new council homes, so spending this money will not affect any other council services

Cllr Fitzpatrick is urging the council to think and act more like a business and set urgent priorities to reduce the number of void days, acquire new council homes, and manage more efficiently the housing repair funds – cutting out multiple visits to a property to carry out re-

pairs, so that rental income can be maximised before asking existing council house tenants for rent increases

During the recent meeting he said: “I think it’s morally wrong for the council to be asking tenants for increases in their weekly rent when we ourselves are not maximising the total rental income by having a very poor turnaround period of six months

“If we get our own house in order first then there will be no need to have to ask residents for increases in their rents The maths in this is very clear, the council can do much more to protect the long term sustainability of the council housing stock, rather than just putting up residents’ rent each year

“Just because neighbouring councils have increased their rents, it doesn’t mean that SDDC has to follow suit We have to ensure that we are doing our very best to have our council homes ready for new occupants as quickly as we can, and not only will that improve our finances, it will help many more people and families to have the home they need ”

Alma’s grand fund-raiser

A FUND-RAISER held at The Alma Inn in Melbourne raised over £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, which Gayle Weston, the landlady, said was “just amazing!”

The idea was prompted by a customer who had recently lost a partner to the disease, and both staff and regulars enthusiastically joined in to make the campaign a huge success.

A raffle with a wealth of prizes donated by local businesses raised £463 and a ‘guess the bear ’s name’ competition, with a crocheted bear by Laura Goss – one of the staff – raised £100

In addition a ‘brave the shave’ saw three plucky lads having some personality changing haircuts, raising over £470 in sponsorship. Liam Stainsby, Ryan Jewell, and staff

Busy time ahead at the airport

EAST Midlands Airport (EMA) is gearing up for its busiest year for passenger travel since before the pandemic

Between April and October, the airlines that serve EMA will fly to 60 destinations between them

More than half of all East Midlands passengers fly to Spain, the Balearics and the Canaries This summer the most frequently flown to destinations will be Palma in Majorca with 35 weekly flights, followed by Alicante, Faro in Portugal and then Malaga

EMA managing director Steve Griffiths said:

“From Easter onwards the East Midlands passenger operation really comes to life and the airport will be buzzing with many people taking their first trips of the year Building on the success of last year ’s operation, we will deliver an even stronger summer season

“Confidence is returning to the sector, and this is shown by the willingness of airlines and tour operators to sell more seats and add more flights

“We look forward to extending a very welcome to holidaymakers who will use EMA this year ”

The airport finished 2022 by welcoming 154,257 passengers in December, taking the rolling monthly total number of passenger last year to 3 1 million

member David Smith all braved the clippers, with David transforming his style from New Romantic to Buzz cut in a matter of minutes!

There were also cakes baked by Naomi, live music provided by Bone Brass and AJ, generous donations into buckets on the bar, all putting the fun into fund-raising!

Gayle said she wanted to say a huge thank you to all the local businesses who gave so generously and to everyone who donated and participated.

“We were so overwhelmed by how much we managed to do, so a massive thank you to each and every one of you!” she said.

And, for anyone who entered, the winning name for the bear (pictured above) was Franklin.

£200k

extra funding aid

DERBYSHIRE County Council has approved an additional £200,000 of funding to help support the county’s households with food and energy costs

This includes £100,000 to Marches Energy Advice to help foodbank clients with the cost of energy and £100,000 for Foundation Derbyshire to carry on supporting local food banks Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for Health and Communities, Councillor Carol Hart, said: “The cost of living continues to be a concern for many households across Derbyshire, and some of the biggest costs are energy and food

“These additional funding allocations will help organisations to continue to support the most vulnerable people in our county ” Marches Energy Advice currently run the Warmer Derby and Derbyshire energy advice and support service which includes a Derbyshire-wide dedicated fuel poverty helpline

The funding will enable MEA to carry on their work with food banks, ensuring that people who use them are supported with heating costs when in crisis

The additional funding could help an extra 650 households across Derbyshire struggling with energy costs

Hall’s set for a celebrity packed season

A PACKED season of Glamping and Live Events is being planned for 2023 at Melbourne Hall, bringing lots of celebrity glamour and media interest to the village.

There will be three comedy weekends, mirroring the programme for last year, with top comics Seann Walsh, Milton Jones and Mark Watson headlining the first shows on May 19, 20 and 21

Each show has a full supporting cast of top comedians

Tickets are now on sale from Just The Tonic website The venue will be the covered area in the walled rose garden, with food and drink available in the adjacent Hall garden area

Although line-ups are awaited for the two other comedy weekends, one will be in July and the last one in September

In addition to the comedy, and new for this season, a collaboration with Sony Music will bring 80s and 90s nostalgia weekends to the Hall

Tickets are already on sale, and almost sold out, for the 90s anthem show Live at Melbourne Hall which will feature Glastonbury icon and Radio 2 DJ Jo Whiley “Nobody knows 90s music as well as Jo, who led the charge as Britpop blew up, dance music exploded and indie went wild There s perhaps nobody better to host this blast from the past,” says the publicity for the event

The 80s show is scheduled for Friday, June 23, and BBC Radio 2’s Gary Davies “Sounds of the 80s” Tour, is being lined up with tickets due to go

by Frank Hughes

on sale this month Claimed by Gary to be the best decade for music, expect to see big hair and big fashion as the styles moved from Adam and the Ants to Acid House Organising the events at the Hall, Roger Lowe, said they are also planning to have an iconic 80s and 90s film screening on the Sunday of those two weekends, and – depending on popularity –potentially another event on the Saturdays

Onto the Field of Dreams Vintage Glamping experience, bookings are now open for the season, starting on April 7, and running through to the end of September With eight vehicles to choose from, bookings are being taken for a two, three or four night stay

Season two of the Channel 4 TV programme “Carry on Glamping” with Johnny Vegas will be filmed at various times during the season Three episodes for the forthcoming season have already been filmed, and an announcement is awaited about when the shows will air

Mr Lowe said the Glamping and the Live Events had really sparked a lot of interest from the Derbyshire area and wider afield for the Hall and for Melbourne itself He said: “I am really pleased that it will bring business and new people to the village, and will promote Melbourne as a great place to visit ”

£2k boost for mountain rescue team

TWO thousand pounds has been handed over to Derby Mountain Rescue after fundraising from members of the Aston-on-Trent Women’s Institute

The WI held various events in order to raise the money, including a jumble sale, a garden party and some coffee mornings throughout the year in the heritage centre.

Derbyshire clothing manufacturers David Nieper donated boxes of new clothes that were sold at all events including the Aston-on-Trent Well Dressing weekend.

Andy Lamb from Derby Mountain Rescue thanked the WI for their donation, saying it

was much appreciated

Derby Mountain Rescue team is a group of skilled volunteers who offer a 24/7 emergency service, handling situations from missing people in rural areas to a crag rescue or swift water emergency.

The organisation costs over £35,000 a year to run and relies on the generosity of the public and local businesses to continue its mission

Anne James, president of Aston-on-Trent WI, is pictured handing over a cheque for £2,000 to Andy Lamb, from Derby Mountain Rescue

STAFF at South Derbyshire District Council have reduced the carbon footprint of their daily commute by nearly half by working from home far more, a new report has revealed

The report to the council’s Environment and Development Services Committee detailed how changes to the way staff work impacted its level of carbon emissions

The council was aiming for a quarter of its staff to be working flexibly by 2024 Other targets were that 10 per cent of employees should either car share, cycle or use public transport to get to work, while 15 per cent should get to the office on foot

But the Covid pandemic has meant these targets have been smashed, with 68 per cent of staff now working flexibly, 11 per cent either walking or using public transport and 8 7 per cent car sharing

“The onset of the pandemic had a seismic impact on staff travel behaviours,” the report said

As well as that, 11 more members of staff at the council are now driving electric or hybrid cars than in 2019

Working from home has brought about an estimated 48 per cent reduction in carbon emissions resulting from the daily commute by council staff

Around the world with this year ’s Carnival

MELBOURNE Carnival’s committee is busy organising the summer ’s popular event – the theme for which is “Around the World”

Last year ’s carnival was one of its biggest ever with nearly 3,000 people turning out to enjoy a sunny afternoon of floats, stalls, entertainment and food

The committee says that with this year ’s theme they would love to celebrate “places, events and culture from around our beautiful planet”

“It was great to see so many people attending the 2022 carnival , ” said the committee “We thank all of those who continue to support the event

“This year ’s Melbourne Fete & Carnival is set to take place on Saturday, July 8, at Melbourne Junior School fields It’s certainly one to mark in your calendar! Again, there will be a huge procession and fete on the field and a lively set of performances throughout the afternoon ”

Run by local volunteers, this year ’s event sees a new chair step forward: Gemma Bettelley, who takes over the role from Rachel Kington

Rebecca Stead is the new secretary and Christian Peat has stayed on as

l Members of Melbourne Carnival committee (l-r) (back row): Tracey Ridley, Sarah Stainthorpe, Tim Margett, Rachel Kington, Pippa Cole, Sarah Young, Penelope Mitchell; front row: Rebecca Stead, secretary, Gemma Bettelley, chair, and Chris Peat, treasurer.

treasurer

Gemma said: “I am delighted to take on the role following the success built by Rachel and the team in 2022

“Following Covid-19, the committee introduced digital tickets as contactless entry, which was a huge success

“This year we will be offering ‘early bird’ tickets with discounts for advanced purchase to support the rise in the cost of living which all families are seeing

“We welcome back many of the favourite competitions: tug-of-war, shop windows and our huge raffle –which had more than 30 prizes last year – alongside stalls, stage acts and music, which the team is working hard to deliver to make this year ’s carnival the biggest and best yet ”

The carnival and fete sees a procession of around 30 vehicles through the historic streets of Melbourne, finishing at the junior school on Packhorse Road

The fete then runs throughout the afternoon with a main stage and arena, both featuring performances, as well as around 30 stalls with food, beverages, activities and gifts

Senior Citizens Centre plan for six houses

A SECOND set of proposals to build houses on land that was home to the former Senior Citizens Centre in Melbourne have been sent to planning officers

If approved, the plans from Melbourne Hall Estate would see the old centre knocked down and six houses built on the land

That is twice as many as there were in previously submitted proposals which involved only three houses and the copper beech tree in front of the old centre being retained

These plans were withdrawn last year after a change in planning personnel at South Derbyshire District Council

One of the points of discussion was over whether the beech tree in front of the old centre should be kept

While the previous planning scheme allowed for keeping the tree, the new planning officer was of the view that a traditional street in Melbourne would not have a tree in front of a house

The newly submitted plans will mean chopping down the copper beech tree However, a planning statement said this would be mitigated by planting 20 new native trees including four copper beeches

The statement explained that the new proposal for the site was inspired by its heritage: a large house and row of cottages which were on the land

by Lucy Stephens

before they were all destroyed by bombs in 1940

The new proposal involves building a terrace of five three-bed, two-storey cottages and one threestorey four-bed house, which is designed to be like a ‘Georgian gentleman’s residence’

The row of cottages have been positioned in such a way in the design that views of Melbourne Parish Church and houses on Church Street are kept There is also a new footpath to serve the cottages, car parking and a landscaped green area

The existing low wall to Castle Street is planned to stay

Applicants also propose that the Royal British Legion’s commemorative plaque will be moved to a “prominent location” within a new boundary wall to be built along Church Street They plan to provide a new public bench alongside the plaque “to allow for quiet reflection”

“It is concluded that the proposal delivers a high quality living environment for future occupiers and does not cause negative impacts for existing neighbouring properties,” said the planning statement

The Senior Citizens Centre is a timber building which was erected on the site in 1965 It shut its doors in 2021 after its existing lease came to an end

Ruby gets in a tight spot

DERBYSHIRE Fire and Rescue Services were called upon in January to effect the rescue of a horse, trapped between a fence and the brook on Trent Lane in Kings Newton Ruby, an 18-year-old Friesian cross Irish cob, searching for some tasty breakfast treats, managed to get herself wedged between the fence, belonging to Newton Self Storage and Ramsley Brook, and couldn’t find reverse gear

Jo Glaze, mother of the horse’s owner, Vicky, had gone to give Ruby her morning feed, but found her miss-

ing without trace from her field Using the tracking skills of helpful neighbour Johan Kok, they eventually found her in a tight spot with no option but to call 999

After cutting the fence, the Red Team from Ascot Drive managed to free Ruby who “thought the whole thing was good fun” according to Jo.

“She remained calm throughout, and seemed thrilled when she was freed,”

she added

“Everybody who helped was absolutely wonderful, and I was very impressed that the firemen seemed to know exactly what to do I would like to thank both Johan and Paul from Newton Self Storage, for all their help,” Jo added

Ruby won’t be repeating her experience, as the narrow strip has been blocked off to her now!

OPERATORS of a derelict pub in the heart of Ticknall want to give it a smart revamp – but they need to find someone to take it on

The Wheel in Ticknall has been empty since 2020, but now Star Pubs & Bars say they are planning a major refurbishment

If all goes to plan The Wheel would benefit from a big refurbishment with a full redecoration of the bar area including a new timber floor, new light fittings in the lounge and dining area, new kitchen equipment, full redecoration of the toilets and new outside signage

Now Star Pubs & Bars are looking for a publican to take over The Wheel, saying on its website: “The perfect operator for The Wheel will know the area well and have prior experience running a food led business

“They will take pride in their customer service skills as this is of paramount importance to ensure that customers in both trading areas feel part of the overall pub experience ”

Operators feel that The Wheel would “appeal to a wide cross-section of people” with daytime trade needing to focus on those looking for a trip out for lunch, while evenings and weekends would be more likely to be focused on village locals looking for a drink “in high quality surroundings” or over 30s travelling to the area for “high quality food”

l Jo Glaze with Ruby and the firefighters who rescued the horse.

Rams chaplain Ton continues Kenya wor

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AS WELL as being the parish vicar with a main base at St George’s Church in Aston-onTrent, Rev Tony Luke wears another hat, or collar: he is also chaplain for Derby County Football Club.

A diehard Rams fan, he turned out to a meeting of Aston’s thriving Women’s Institute to tell members all about why he loves travelling to Nakuru in Kenya with the club’s community trust, and will be going again this May

The ”Rams in Kenya” project started in 2012 when 12 volunteers travelled to the East African country with a view to supporting children in slum areas, particularly with regard to their education

At the start of the scheme, Rams in Kenya supported two schools in Nakuru, which is about 250 miles north-west of Nairobi Now, in 2023, 83 volunteers are going out to support children in five schools

Tony said the volunteering involved a range of activities including teaching children and even a spot

by Lucy Stephens

of building, whatever is most needed

“In 2022 I think we painted the whole school inside and out and from top to bottom!” he said

“The Kenyan education department is very keen to promote a more interactive approach to teaching Teachers sometimes don’t get paid and they carry on teaching even so ”

One thing, however, is markedly superior to home

“Even in rural Kenya, the phone network is 10 times better than in Aston-on-Trent!” said Tony “It’s absolutely brilliant Lots of people share mobile phones

“Children love coming to school, they love being at school, they want to learn It’s not a chore, it’s a privilege, which is tremendous to see ”

But poverty is very real in Nakuru and Tony said visiting some areas – like the children’s homes – re-

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“You would think giving these ch car was giving them the earth ” Most difficult of all, said Tony, municipal rubbish dump where 10 salvaging anything they can possi

Tony himself wears a bracelet the Kenyan flag, which was made u the dump

“I told the children in 2017 that wearing it so I would remember th

“The thing that makes it worth dren People say to me ‘Is it depres pressing at all Some elements of i but it’s not depressing because th full of life

“They haven’t got anything ver are so full of life They are so cheer outgoing, it makes it all worthwhi

ABOVE: Tony Luke with a boy in Nakuru.

TOP CENTRE: Volunteers at Chaddy Mission School, one of the schools the TOP RIGHT: Tony helping out with some building work

BELOW RIGHT: Children at Chaddy M

project helps. ission School

y rkany people living hey live,” he said ildren a little toy was visiting the 0,000 people live, bly recycle in the colours of using plastic from I would carry on hem,” he said while is the chilsing?’ It’s not det are challenging e children are so y much but they rful, positive and le ”

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to the gentleman cycling to work up Jaw Bone Lane, early on 19 December. You saved my husband’s life and we will be forever grateful.

OBITUARY

work colleagues for their kind thoughts at this very sad time

We appreciate the love shown to us all from the attendance at church to remember Stuart, the many cards and flowers received, and especially the donations to Pancreatic Cancer UK, which totalled £405

You’ll need your ID papers to cast a vote

MICHAEL ‘STUART’ TOMLINSON

April 18, 1943 –December 3, 2022

SYLVIA, Nicola, James and Laura wish to thank the many friends, family, neighbours and

Thank you to J P Springthorpe for their care and attention, Revd Steve Short for his lovely service, Sue of Melbourne Florists for the flowers and Sandra for her kind help at the Royal British Legion, also to Andy the standard bearer Special thanks go to Elonor for her lovely food Stuart will be sadly missed

What’s On

YOUR GUIDE TO EVENTS IN OUR AREA

Continuing until Saturday 25 February:

Creative Melbourne Gallery Exhibition

Peaks & Moors

Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne.

Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm. See ad on page 11.

Tuesday 14 February:

Plants for Free

Plant Propagation Made Easy with returning favourite Darren Rudge. Talk from Ticknall Garden Club, Ticknall Village Hall, 7.30pm. Members £2; Visitors £4.

Saturday 18 February:

Coffee Morning

10am - noon. United Reformed Church Hall, High Street, Melbourne.

Saturday 25 February:

Coffee Morning

10am - noon. Roman Catholic Church, St Mary’s Hall, Church Street, Melbourne.

Wednesday 1 March - Saturday 8 April:

Creative Melbourne Gallery Exhibition

Street Life

Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne.

Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm. See ad on page 11.

Thursday 2 March:

Melbourne Area Derby u3a

2.30pm: Melbourne Assembly Rooms, Learn how to save a life; demonstration on CPR and defibrillator use. Contact: madu3ainfo@gmail.com

Saturday 4 March:

Coffee Morning

10am - noon. Methodist ChurchWesley Hall, Potter Street, Melbourne.

Saturday 11 March:

Coffee Morning 10am - noon. Baptist Church Schoolroom, Chapel Street, Melbourne.

Tuesday 14 March:

Calke Abbey Gardens

with National Trust volunteer Roy Mitchell. Talk from Ticknall Garden Club, Ticknall Village Hall, 7.30pm. Members £2; visitors £4.

To include your event here please email ads@melbournevillagevoice.co.uk or call 07584 025 852

SOUTH Derbyshire will be among the first areas in the county where voters will have to show identity papers when they go to the polling stations in May for the local elections.

Making an announcement at a recent local forum, Kevin Stackhouse from South Derbyshire District Council told attendees that new legislation was now in force and the council was gearing up to issue identity certificates to any residents who do not have other forms of acceptable identification

The requirement has been brought in under the Elections Act 2022 and is aimed at reducing cases of voter fraud

It will apply to general and local elections, local referendums, police and crime commissioner elections and recall elections

With local elections planned for May 4 this year, this district will be among the first councils to apply the new law Mr Stackhouse thought the process would create some difficulties, as there were bound to be teething problems

Voters who do not have acceptable photo

by Frank Hughes

identification such as a passport, photo driving licence, photocard parking permit or concessionary travel pass, will not be issued with a ballot paper unless they can provide a voter authority certificate It will apply also to anyone making a proxy vote

The district council has been tasked with issuing the certificates, which will be provided free of charge, but applicants will need to supply a passport style photograph

The council will be mounting a comprehensive communication programme to ensure voters are aware of this significant change

Applications in person are already open, but can also be made online or by post The deadline for issuing will be six days in advance of the election, but applicants are advised to apply as early as they can

The Electoral Reform Society (ERS) has called the Government’s initiative “an expensive distraction” with costs estimated at £180million over the next 10 years They also point to the very low level of voter

fraud in recent elections

Figures issued by the Electoral Commission for 2021 show that out of 315 cases of potential fraud, none led to a prosecution and a police caution was issued in just one case

Over 58 million votes were cast in 2019 but there were only 34 allegations of identity fraud

ERS has also launched a petition calling on the Government to scrap the plans, which they suggest will impact disproportionately on younger and poorer voters

Local district councillor Martin Fitzpatrick is committed to ensuring there is a campaign to raise awareness of the new requirement and said fellow councillors are pushing for a note going out with every council tax bill, adverts in local press and an email to every known email address “I am taking as much personal responsibility as possible to inform the electorate, he said, adding that he would try to find out what additional help there will be for disadvantaged groups

SPELL-BINDING ENTERTAINMENT

IF WATCHING a loud actionpacked blockbuster can make you feel slightly dazed when emerging from the cinema, blinking into the sunlight in the suddenly quiet and ordinary world – then sitting through a silent film has rather the opposite effect

When there are no spoken words, no colours, and definitely no explosions, the experience is all in the detail And coming out into the night afterwards, the world seems louder and brasher than it did Put it this way: Pulp Fiction, it ain’t, writes

LUCY STEPHENS

In January at The Assembly Rooms in Melbourne, the pairing of early Alfred Hitchcock silent film The Lodger with

21st Century music from a band called Minima made for a spell-binding and highly unusual evening

The film from the master of suspense tells the story of a serial killer on the loose in London, who is targeting young blonde women

When a lodger comes to stay at the house of Mr and Mrs Bunting in London, we are immediately concerned for the safety of the young lady of the house, Daisy, as the stranger ’s odd behaviour leads us to wonder if he may be the killer hunted by police

An early role for Ivor Novello, the lodger ’s mysterious actions include turning around a picture of a blonde lady on the wall

why? He seems to have a particular fondness for Daisy, which is suspicious itself And he comes and goes at odd times too

Scant dialogue to drive forward the plot is provided by frames containing a few sparsely written words, but otherwise we’re led on by Hitchcock’s sure director ’s hand with classic suspense shots providing the drama: the sudden image of Ivor Novello in a hat and a scarf at the doorway; a hand descending the banister of a central stairwell leading to a sense of dread that the lodger could be going out at night to do his nefarious business

In an age of extreme colour, action and noise, it’s all quietly

gripping stuff

But where there was silence, the most perfect musical score is provided by the uniquely brilliant talents of Minima, a fourpiece band from Bristol who by means of the double bass, guitars, mandolin, autoharp, dulcimer, synthesiser, glockenspiel and drum kit, enhance the sense of quiet tension and drama in the most perfect way

From a knocking sound mirroring the lady of the house’s actions as she does the housework, to a subtly atmospheric guitar providing a spooky theme, it’s just brilliantly done Minima come back to the Assembly Rooms on October 15 with 1922 horror film Nosferatu Highly recommend

Photo courtesy Paul Blakemore.

Robin power walks 300 miles for charity

LOCAL estate agent Robin Bailey has proved his boots are made for walking by clocking up more than 300 miles to raise vital funds for cancer research

Robin (pictured above) is very well known in the local area for his work valuing homes for Marble Property Services

But now he has developed a reputation for a different reason after taking on the Run the Month challenge for Prostate Cancer UK

Rather than take on the challenge’s suggestion of running a marathon’s distance during January, Robin has instead power walked a grand total of 315 miles over the course of the month

He has raised more than £1,500 in the process, smashing his original modest target of £100!

Sports fan Robin said he had been inspired to take on the challenge because of the support for Prostate Cancer UK from TV network Sky

“The reason I’ve done this for Prostate Cancer UK is that it’s predominantly a men’s charity,” he explained “Jeff Stelling from Sky Sports has also strongly supported it I wanted to do something and I knew I was going to try and do a keep fit challenge, but this gave it an incentive

“A lot of people have said to me that they have had a family member, a brother or a grandfather, who has had this type of cancer and come through it ”

by Lucy Stephens

To complete his challenge Robin has been getting up at around 5 30 every morning – and there have been some bitingly cold spells in early 2023

and completing several miles before going to work

He has also been getting out at lunch times and in the evenings too

Robin said he has been “humbled” by the level of support he has received, with many people going into the estate agency in Castle Donington to hand over a donation

He was further bowled over when the managing director of Marble Property Services, Steve Thrower, matched his fund-raising to bring his overall total up to over £1,500

Aside from the money raised, Robin said he had thoroughly enjoyed going out into the fresh air for a power walk every day – despite a few very frosty starts!

“I think my general sense of wellbeing has definitely improved, and my fitness levels,” he said

“When you go out for a walk you try not to overthink anything, and you try to have a clear mind ”

Robin Bailey’s fund-raising page is still open for anyone who would like to donate:

https://tinyurl com/3wft2885

RECRUITMENT DRIVE AT AIRPORT

AHEAD of what is expected to be the busiest year for passenger travel since 2019, East Midlands Airport (EMA) has begun one of its largest ever recruitment drives

The airport has more than 100 customer-facing vacancies including security, customer

services, assisted travel and car parking Airport customer services and security director Michael Grimes said: “We are looking for new recruits who enjoy interacting with customers, putting a smile on people’s faces, and the energy of a 24-hour op-

eration Airports are exciting places to work, and I urge anyone looking for a new job this year to check us out “ In return, we offer competitive pay, flexible hours to suit lifestyles and a friendly and supportive working atmosphere ”

Winter activit y in the house at Calke Abbey

A buzz of activity takes place behind closed doors. See this in action on a Conservation tour or venture ‘below stairs’ on a In the Steps of Servants tour. Visit the downstairs Family Apartments and discover objects, artwork, and activities featuring curiosities at Calke. Don your detective hat this half term

nationaltrust.org.uk/calke

Members of the Parish Council

Chair Terry Summerlin 01332 864643

Vice Chair

Nigel Collyer 07831 540538

Highways

David Smith 01332 862699

Burial Grounds

Terry Summerlin 01332 864643

Planning and Strategy

Jane Carroll 01332 863269

Finance & HR

Terry Summerlin 01332 864643

Facilities, Recreation and Events

Joe Ward 01332 493578

Sheila Hicklin 01332 865726

Dave Calvert

Guy Crawford 07895 959408

George Dunnicli 07780 806267

Matt Gotheridge

Sarah Hardy 07855 645163

Rob Hatton

Robert Parker 07973 297404

Mick Usher

Jacqui Storer - Clerk 07734 939292 clerk@melbourneparishcouncil.gov.uk

Melbourne Parish Council Chair’s Report - February 2023

Another year and Christmas is a happy memory; at least I hope you all had a lovely time. The festive season kicked o with the Christmas Lights Switch On and Late Night Shopping. Thanks everyone for making it a success.

At the end of last year, two Councillors stepped down. May I take the opportunity to thank Carol Fearria and Steve Hogan for their help and dedication to the Council. I am pleased to report that we were able to co-opt two new Councillors and welcome Councillors Gotheridge and Usher to the Council.

It may be another year but the same problem exists...dog fouling continues. First I'd say "Thank You" to the majority of dog owners who are conscientious and respect the environment by picking up their dogs poo and disposing of it sensibly; you are helping to keep our streets clean and safe. Unfortunately there are still those who think the "Dog Poo Fairy" will magic away the deposit. Please bag it and bin it responsibly!

We are all feeling the e ects of the cost of living crisis; some more than others. In an attempt to provide assistance, the Parish Council has collated a list of the places in the village which o er a warm room opportunity, and this can be viewed on the Parish Council website. Furthermore, if you do feel vulnerable to the current circumstances, South Derbyshire CVS o ers support and can be contacted on 01283 219761.

The Parish Council has reviewed their precept for 2023/24. After much debate the proposal is to increase precept by 13.4% to cover increased costs of essential services (ie public toilets services and maintenance, Lothian Gardens play equipment repairs). This may appear to be a large increase however in real terms it equates to an average increase of 10 pence per week for a Band D property.

Finally, preparations are well underway for the Coronation Celebration Event; look out for further details as we have them. And the Annual Parish Council Meeting will be held on 7th March 2023 at 7.00pm, refreshments will be available from 6.30pm. Everyone welcome.

Terry Summerlin Chair, Melbourne Parish Council

A CHRISTMAS raffle has resulted in vital food supplies for those in need.

Tim Margett, owner of Ferrers Frames at Staunton Harold, handed over a cheque for £837 to Ashby Food Bank. The money was raised from raffle ticket sales at a Christmas shopping evening held at the Ferrers Centre in December, to which all shop-keepers donated prizes

Mr Margett is pictured handing over the cheque to Catherine Booton from the Ashby Foodbank management team

Ofsted report notes hope for academy

STAFF at Chellaston Academy are working together “with hope and purpose” again – a report from education watchdog Ofsted has said in some long-awaited positive news for the school.

Academy head Philip Smith has voiced his pride after a visit from Ofsted finally resulted in an upbeat report

The academy, which is attended by many young people from this area including Melbourne, Barrow, Aston and Weston, has undergone an extensive change in leadership since Ofsted last visited in 2022 and pronounced the school inadequate

That was not the first time Chellaston had been given a poor rating by Ofsted with a previous inadequate rating in 2019

Mr Smith, who took on the role as executive head teacher at the academy in 2022 after Ofsted had visited, said in a press release sent to parents that he was “delighted” to enclose the latest report after a

monitoring inspection in December last year Although the academy is still rated inadequate and remains in special measures, inspectors Sue Woods and Aoife Galletly reported extremely positive findings

In the letter addressed to Mr Smith, they said: “You have brought renewed ambition, clarity and energy to the school

“You have ensured that the school’s values of integrity, care and excellence are at the heart of the work to improve the school You focus on improving the quality of education and care for all pupils

“You have rightly prioritised work to improve provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities You have taken swift action to improve behaviour attendance and safeguarding arrangements Other senior leaders, staff and pupils are responding well to your leadership Staff are working together with hope and purpose ”

One pupil told inspectors of their “relief” that learning was less disrupted by poor behaviour than it was, while a teacher – reflecting the views of many – said: “I can come to work and enjoy my job again my passion has returned”

In a letter to parents Mr Smith said: “We are incredibly proud with the report and in particular the recognition for the rapid progress the academy has been making since the last inspection ”

He went on to say: “Although the report is very positive, I would like to reassure members of the school community that we are not complacent, and we are continuing to work hard to embed improvements We look forward to welcoming Ofsted back into Chellaston Academy, hopefully, before Easter 2023

“I would also like to thank all members of the school community for their diligence, commitment, passion and support ”

Head delighted at good rating

THE head teacher of Breedon’s primary school has voiced her delight after Ofsted officially rated it good

Two inspectors from the education watchdog visited St Hardulph’s Church of England School in November and released their report last month

Inspectors Rebecca Jackson and Jackie Stirland said in their report: “This is a school where pupils ‘go into school happy and come out happy’

“Pupils enjoy coming to school ”

They describe the school as being ‘like a family’, adding: “Relationships between staff and pupils are highly positive Pupils behave well They have good manners and show respect towards each other Expectations of behaviour are clear Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school ”

The report went on to say that the school was proud of its links with Breedon Quarry, which pupils “talked excitedly” about visiting

LICENSING ACT 2003 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR NEW PREMISES LICENCE

Melbourne Parish Council Melbourne Junior School

Pack Horse Road, Melbourne, Derbyshire DE73 8JE

Summary of proposed licensable activities (hours and activities applied for):

For the sale by retail of alcohol - on and off the premises

Saturday 6 May: 12:00hrs - 22:30hrs

Live Music, Recorded music, Performances of dance - outdoors

Saturday 6 May: 10:00hrs - 22:00hrs

Last date of representation: 06/03/2023

The register can be viewed during office hours at South Derbyshire District Council, Civic Offices, Civic Way, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE11 0AH. Please contact us 01283 221000 in order to make an appointment. Alternatively, the full application can be viewed at www.southderbyshire.gov.uk.

Any representation relating to this application must be made in writing to the Licensing Authority by 29 consecutive days after the date of this notice.

Head teacher Kelly Ellis said: “I am delighted that Ofsted have highlighted in their report many of the key strengths of our school

“It makes me very proud that they have highlighted the nurturing environment we offer, where our children come to school happy and go home happy and the strength in our curriculum to promote children’s personal development

“The report also rightly recognises the high ambitions we have for the children to achieve well and many strengths in our curriculum offer, including our reading provision and the great start our reception children have in Early Years

“We are already working on the identified improvement areas to strengthen our provision ever further Indeed, they already feature on our school improvement plan for this academic year, showing we know our school well I would like to thank our families, amazing children and our dedicated staff team for their hard work and commitment, which has helped to make St Hardulph's such a wonderful place to learn, work and flourish ”

Village has a piping hot celebration

A DISTINGUISHED Scottish piper helped make it a bonnie celebration when villagers from Stanton-byBridge held a Burns Night to remember.

Sir David Waterton-Anderson, official piper to the Council of Scottish Armigerous Clans and Families, went to Stanton-by-Bridge Village Hall to help celebrate the life of Robbie Burns

on January 28. Village hall leaders said it had been a privilege to have been joined by Sir David, who is the personal piper to the Baron of Myrton, a role he previously held to the late Duke of Hamilton and Brandoon

Sir David (pictured above) is also guest piper with the Pipes and Drums of the 1st Battalion Scots Guards Nearly 30 people turned out to enjoy

what was described as a “fabulous” three-course meal of Scotch broth, authentic traditional Haggis served with neeps, tatties and whisky sauce, followed by Cranachan, with catering provided by Nicola Wright

Sir David entertained the company after the meal and then tables were pushed side to accommodate some reels with a caller and a Ceilidh.

Firm backs online dangers campaign

FAMILY-RUN business Melbourne

Print has joined forces with Derbyshire’s specialist child exploitation charity, Safe and Sound, to support their efforts in raising awareness of the dangers facing children and young people online and in person.

Derby Road-based Melbourne Print, which offers print, design, signage, web and workwear, has chosen Safe and Sound as one of its main charities to support this year

As well as providing design and print support, the company is also planning to give young people the chance to develop their own creative skills with T-shirt design and print activities as part of the charity’s summer programme Company director Paul Wilson explained: “As a family-run local business, we were keen to do what we can to support Safe and Sound’s really important work in the local communities that we too serve, and we look forward to using our expertise to support the charity’s fund-raising and awareness work

“It will also be great to welcome some of the young people that Safe and Sound support into our premises for fun and creative activities that will give them an outlet to express their creativity and hopefully help to build their confidence and self-esteem ”

Safe and Sound CEO Tracy Harrison

by Lucy Stephens

said: “This is an exciting partnership and we are extremely grateful to the team at Melbourne Print for their support ”

Founded in 2002, Safe and Sound supports children, young people and their families whose lives have been affected by child exploitation

The charity initially focused on child sexual exploitation which, whether that is bribing young people to share indecent images online or grooming them to be raped and abused, remains one of the largest forms of child abuse in the country

It can potentially destroy the lives of any young girl or boy, regardless of where they live, their family situation, cultural or social background A particular focus during the pandemic has been the increased risk of online grooming due to young people spending more time on gaming and social media platforms

In recent years, Safe and Sound expanded the remit of its work to reflect the increase in criminal exploitation, particularly county lines, and has campaigned for young people involved in drugs operations to be recognised as victims of exploitation just as are those who are forced into sexual activity The organisation also supports young people groomed for trafficking, mod-

ern slavery and radicalisation

The charity offers a range of innovative, hands-on programmes including one-to-one and group support, outreach work, practical help for families, plus activities for young people

It also offers support for people with special educational needs

In 2019 Safe and Sound supported 100 children and young people, a figure that rose to 150 the following year and 292 in 2021

This included families where children were being groomed and exploited Safe and Sound is led by former police superintendent Tracy Harrison with the support of a specialist team, an experienced board of trustees and now a team of ambassadors who are helping to raise the profile of the charity and the issue of child exploitation

Its expertise came to the fore during the 2010 landmark case – Operation Retriever – which was Derby’s first prosecution for child sexual exploitation and abuse The charity’s specialist team supported every young person affected by the criminal actions of 13 defendants who were jailed in total for up to 22 years for 70 offences

For more information about child exploitation, Safe and Sound Derby and how to support their work, please visit www safeandsoundgroup org uk

LOCAL police are warning drivers to double check they have locked their cars after a spate of automobile crime.

Speaking at the Local Area Forum, officers from the Safer Neighbourhood team said our villages were clearly being targeted for car crime with Aston, Weston, Shardlow and Melbourne all having been hit recently They had responded by increasing patrols

Reporting that many thefts had taken place from unlocked cars they urged owners to check their vehicle was locked, to remove any valuables from sight, and to take advantage of the free Faraday bags they are handing out. The bags secure keys from cars with keyless entry and ignition which are particularly susceptible to cloning by sophisticated thieves.

The police also reported a worrying trend of increased drug/drink driving over Christmas, with 180 arrests made across Derbyshire – significantly up on last year ’s figure. Driving under the influence of drugs was particularly prevalent among 17 to 25-year-old drivers and was now more easily detectable since the introduction of roadside drug swiping kits

Also at the meeting Chris Smith, team manager for the Communities Safety Partnership, mentioned concerns following a number of anti-social behaviour incidents in the Swadlincote area, with children now being anxious about visiting parks.

The team were looking at how to improve urban areas, with better lighting and clearer sightlines He also advised that there was still funding available for any projects to make the community feel safer or prevent crime Details of the fund are on the South Derbyshire District Council website.

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Tuesday 7th March 2023

Police put drivers on alert after spate of car crime March through March for charity

IT’S time to get moving with the latest fund-raising challenge from Melbourne-based charity me&dee which is urging everyone to ‘march through March’

The charity, which aims to give happy memories to families where a potentially lifeshortening condition has been diagnosed, is launching its latest challenge so it can help provide more comfort to people who are facing some of the toughest

situations imaginable

Every day from Monday, February 27, to Friday, March 31, me&dee is challenging as many people as possible to walk, run, swim or dance 1 3 miles – or approximately 3,360 steps a day

Over the whole month, that will add up to 43 miles, the whole distance between the me&dee office and the charity’s lodge in Sherwood Forest

The charity is offering prizes for adults who raise more than

£50 to be entered into a draw with prizes including a magnum of champagne, a ticket to the Pink & Blue ball, and a spa day pass at Hoar Cross Hall

Children can also win a prize when they raise more than £10, including a White Post Farm Activity Pack or cuddly baby Hope or Hero toy

All money raised will go towards helping families facing short futures, by creating special memory making experi-

ences

The charity has helped thousands of families over the years

Anyone who would like to participate should head over to the me&dee website to sign up Anyone joining in can share their challenge photos with the charity via its social media: #MTM

Anyone with any further questions should email events@meanddee co uk

l Tracy Harrison with Melbourne Print’s Paul Wilson (left) and business development manager Rob Moore

Terry Summerlin (Chair), David Calvert, Jane Carroll, Nigel Collyer, Guy Crawford, George Dunnicli , Andrew Dawson, Matt Gotheridge, Sarah Hardy, Robert Hatton, Sheila Hicklin, Robert Parker, David Smith, Mick Usher, Joe Ward.

T he Common Touch..

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

FEBRUARY to many people means Valentine’s Day; there is also a connection to the beginning of spring on the 14th of February

A season I love very much and not just because I’m an Aquarian and have a February birthday, but seeing the buds on plants and trees brings a sense of hope

I wanted to share my Valentine note to Whistlewood, and there’s a lot to love: the green space, the peace and quiet, the amazing trees from fruit and nut trees to the Italian Alders which act as a wind break and all the native British woodland and hedgerow trees we’ve planted

Our only original tree on site is our large oak, which has seen beneath its branches many wedding party celebrations and yoga sessions We have put our tender loving care in to regenerating this tree back to full health from it being a bit unhappy with its roots being constantly wet when the area was much boggier This February I shall give it a big tree hug

Caring for our naturally wild spaces by leaving them well alone also helps us show our love and gratitude to the wildlife who live on site

This country’s biodiversity is being seriously depleted and we must do all we can to encourage wild spaces to support all our wildlife from tiny flies, butterflies, bees, amphibious animals and mammals We know we are increasing the habitat for all the Whistlewood creatures; show them some love in your own gardens by leaving a wild area

We are proud to say we love our composting toilets – originally these helped us with providing facilities for our volunteers so we could stay on site longer and work on our various projects and workshops. Plus, they are the poshest composting toilets I’ve seen!

One of the most beautiful projects we’ve completed is the straw bale roundhouse with a fantastic stage. It has great curves and inside is filled with light.

The community garden and our fruit trees and perennial edibles give love back by providing us with fantastic nourishment.

The site is totally amazing and that is down to the love and care of our volunteers and supporters.

My last Valentine wishes go to all the Whistlewood friends and Village Voice readers; hope you find love and peace in nature.

– KATHERINE PARRISH

& Company Coffee

Tuesday 7 March

Melbourne Assembly Rooms 2 – 4 pm

Meet friends... bring friends... make friends.

The Burton Blizzard lives up to its name

BURTON Sailing Club, based at Foremark Reservoir, brought in the new year by hosting the first of the Midlands Mini-Series, The Burton Blizzard.

A total of 29 boats rocked up on Saturday morning (January 14) in conditions that have made the event live up to its name for the second year in a row, writes Adam Kenney

A strong, cold wind picked up just in time for the morning’s pursuit race, and fleets of Phantoms, Merlins, 505s, and a bunch of other worthy Midlanders, waited patiently for their starting number to roll around before beginning their share of the 80-minute race

George Crammond, in a Europe, led for an impressively long time, being chased down by Bird/Priddle in a 505 and Hope/Stewart in a fireball, who were the last two boats to start As the faster boats chased down the slower, it became clear that, with 40 minutes gone, Merlin Rocket Champions, Gillard/Grey were on course to get their nose in front Taking the lead nearly 20 minutes before the final whistle, Tom and Rachel sat tight in first place, careful not to succumb to the day’s vicious gusts and the arbitrary shifts that challenged even the most experienced of sailors Second was Burton’s own Duncan Adams in a Phantom, and taking bronze was Kev Hope and Andy Stewart’s Fireball

Community Care Melbourne

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COUNCILLORS’ SURGERIES

DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL, SOUTH DERBYSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL AND MELBOURNE PARISH COUNCIL

Your County, District & Parish Councillors’ surgeries are on SATURDAY 4 MARCH at The Assembly Rooms, Melbourne - 11am - 12 noon

They are also available on phone or email:

DAVID MULLER (County) 07415 720360/01283 384112

david.muller@derbyshire.gov.uk

MARTIN FITZPATRICK (District) 07710 030187/01332 862323

martin.fitzpatrick@southderbyshire.gov.uk

JIM HEWLETT (District) 07979 976860/01332 863927

jim.hewlett@southderbyshire.gov.uk

After a well-earned refuel, the first of two afternoon handicap races saw the wind pick back up and the rain fall A period of ‘Shakespearean’ conditions took out a considerable number of the fleet and put the rescue teams through their paces Those that made it round, holding

on for dear life, secured themselves an extremely well-earned beer in the bar, and those that didn’t drank away guilt-free in the knowledge they’d at least had a go in what were, at times anyway, nightmare conditions

In what has become a bit of a tradition in British sailing, Tom Gillard and Rachel Grey sat top of the leader board overnight with three bullets Sunday broke with slightly moderated conditions to tempt out the battered and bruised contestants of the previous day Soon enough, however, the conditions likened themselves to the day before as the breeze built A simple triangle course saw Hope/Stewart take race four ’s honours, Gillard/Grey second, and fellow Merlin Rocket Chris Martin and John Tailby third

A twin-pole injury (we’ve all been there, right?), took Gillard/Grey out of the picture in race five This, however, did not stop Merlin Rocket dominance! Chris Martin and John Tailby took the honours, Hope/Steward in second and local boy Duncan Adams found his pursuit race pace and broke into third

The fleet were all done by lunchtime and, after scoffing Burton’s now famous fish-finger sandwiches, Gillard/Grey were crowned champions of the Burton Blizzard with an impressive five points over five

races Can you stop this pair? Have a go at the next instalment of the Midlands Mini-Series over at Staunton Harold SC on February 18-19

n Race officer John Gay has sent in this report from the day’s windsurfing:

Seventeen hardy competitors braved the conditions to take part in the windsurfing races at the Blizzard, with a strong contingent from the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Midlands Regional Training Group that includes many young Burton windsurfers

The entrants were looking forward to the strong winds that were forecast, and the weather on both days did not disappoint Most chose to downsize to smaller sails than normal, with a few tough competitors managing to hang on to their usual 6 8 and 7 8 sails, Tian Zhang and Matthew Edward deserving special mention in this respect

Saturday’s racing consisted of a downwind slalom format, complete with “Le Mans” style beach starts

All four races were closely fought, with Amelia Gay leading at the end of day one, on equal points with Joe Faulkner The rest of the fleet were hot on their heels, with some spectacular wipeouts along the way, which meant that staying upright was just as important as going fast Day two started with a course race, which was won by Saturday’s race officer Sam Birch, closely followed by Joe and Amelia For the final race, the race team reverted to a slalom format By the end of the event Joe managed to pull ahead of Amelia and finish first overall, with Matthew consolidating his well deserved third place

MIXED FORTUNES FOR RUGBY CLUB FIRSTS

MELBOURNE Rugby Club’s first team continue to sit in fourth place as the league moves through February January was a month of mixed fortunes for the first team with an even-handed spread of losses and wins.

The year began in style with a stonking six-try bonus point win against Silhillians, with Melbourne clearly on top of the scoresheet at 40-7.

But the following week brought disappointment in the form of a 12-7 defeat to Belgrave, and there was further bad news at the end of the month with a 38-19 loss to Leicester Forest

However, the following week, the firsts dug deep to secure an 18-15 victory against Nuneaton Old Eds.

Onto the new year, the second half of the season, and the club hopes to see a few more people come and watch a live game of real rugby, played by – as it says – “actual good players, for free on your doorstep”.

Chris Baggott from the club adds: “Beer from the MSP optional but highly recommended. There is a game on most Saturday afternoons or even come and play, whatever age from six to 60 we can find a place for you.

“Any juniors or minis are more than welcome on Sundays, boys and girls, and still the only team sport that boys and girls can play together.”

SAILING AHEAD ... competitors tackle the strong winds in this year ’s Burton Blizzard event at Foremark Reservoir.

Hope for a rounders start-up

WHO’S for a game of rounders?

A move is afoot to try to establish a thriving rounders scene for all the family at Melbourne Sporting Partnership (MSP), whose leaders would love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved

Malcolm Roseburgh, the MSP’s recently appointed head of business and operations, said there was a lot of enthusiasm around the idea of starting up regular rounders games up at the Cockshut Lane grounds

The idea would be for games to be held on parts of the pitch which are not in use at various times of year, being the cricket field and rugby pitches out of season

If the plan works well, this could mean that rounders could be played all year round at the MSP, giving the park a new regular sport and a fresh audience to enjoy its top-notch facilities

“Rounders is very sociable, and it’s very active, it’s good for mental and physical health, and it’s easy to set up – it’s one for all the family,” explained Malcolm “Parents can come down with

by Lucy Stephens

their children and do something together ”

Representatives from Rounders England, the governing body for the sport, have already been to the MSP and have given the idea their nod of approval

Now MSP leaders are trying to gauge what interest there might be from the local community to take the idea forward

“We’re trying to see if there is anyone out there who would be interested in helping organise it,” said Malcolm

“It would be a really good addition to the site if we could get people interested ”

He said that a rounders setup at the MSP could be run however members wanted, whether that would be on a casual basis or more seriously, in local leagues

It is hoped that enough interest can be found for rounders to start at the MSP this spring

Anyone interested in finding out more should contact Malcolm on maliroseburgh@btinternet com

Netball ladies clip Hawks’ wings

A FANTASTIC morning of netball for the ladies of Melbourne Netball Club was played on Sunday, February 5, with the team securing a surprise win against Desford Hawks, a team from the division above the Melbourne Ladies in the North West Leicestershire Netball League

The Melbourne ladies started the game knowing they were the underdogs, but in high spirits following another great win the previous week Melbourne quickly turned over the ball in the first few minutes of the game, allowing them to take an early lead, and finish the first quarter with a score of 10-4

The ladies played a fast-paced game but managed to maintain a high level of accurate passing throughout the whole court and with some well-placed balls from player of the match Leah Smith and centre Lisa Edwards into the attacking circle

Building on the success of the first quarter, the shooting duo of Sarah Cooper and Stacey Dinnis, played to each other ’s strengths, displaying some great teamwork and managed to pull the team ahead further, with a half-time score of 21-13

Going into the second half Melbourne focused on maintaining composure, and continued their strong focus on ball side defensive play Sam Mason in wing defence put in her best performance of the season thus far, and Jane Catling and Wendy Insley provided a valuable performance in the defensive D The combination of this led to some impressive turn-overs and enabled Melbourne to prevent a number of goals by Desford despite their best efforts and strong attacking play

The Melbourne ladies continued to pull ahead, ending the game with an impressive final score of 45-26 and secured their place in the semi-finals to be played in March

Anyone who would like to find out more about Melbourne Netball Club, which has open training sessions on Monday evenings at Melbourne Sporting Partnership, or are interested in providing some much-needed sponsorship is asked to visit the Facebook page @MelbourneNetballClub

MORE than 120 runners descended on Ticknall Village Hall on a beautiful winter ’s morning to enjoy a 10-mile route around scenic South Derbyshire country paths

The Winter Bash – the Peak Running-organised cold weather sibling to the well-known summertime ‘Brooksie’s Bash’ – involved runners taking on a self-guided undulating trail starting off on fields behind Ticknall and taking in the Calke estate, Foremark

Hall and Robin Wood. One participant, Simon Burch of Derby, who trains twice a week with Chesapeake Road Runners and in his daytime job is a director of Penguin PR, said this was his first Winter Bash and it was an all-round great experience He said: “I really enjoyed it It’s a great route with a bit of everything –and just such nice countryside to run through

“I’ve done Peak Running events before and they are always really well organised and friendly ”

The fastest participant was Stuart Laurie, who completed the distance in one hour, eight minutes and 50 seconds.

Jenny Laing was the fastest woman, setting a course record with her time of one hour, 15 minutes and 29 seconds

l Runners taking part in The Winter Bash setting off past Ticknall Parish Church

‘New’ faces in MSP team

MELBOURNE Sporting Partnership has three new faces who have taken on part-time roles there – but they’ve actually all been involved for years

For Malcolm Roseburgh, who is the partnership’s new chair of business and operations, working at the sports park on Cockshut Lane is a kind of homecoming

Malcolm, who lives in Aston-on-Trent, was formerly the cultural services manager at South Derbyshire District Council in which role he was involved in the very early days of Melbourne Sports Park’s (MSP) development

Now retired from the district council, his latest role at the MSP he helped develop is to provide support to the many different clubs helping keep hundreds of people fit and active there

“There’s a lot to do,” he said “It’s a really busy site A lot goes on here behind the scenes The clubs themselves are really busy I support the staff and have an overall view of the business and operations It’s quite a tight ship that we run!”

Malcolm’s job involves supporting the business side of the MSP, including ensuring the excellence of its facilities is maintained and continuing to explore ways of making it financially sustainable

Also new to the MSP are Mandy Lines and Julie Page, who are, respectively, book-keeper and administrator

- STAUNTON HAROLD

Both have been involved in the sports side of the MSP for quite a while, with Mandy a member and treasurer of Melbourne Netball Club which trains there on Monday nights

Mandy said she “absolutely loved” her new role as book-keeper “I’m very passionate about here because I use it, I want to continue using it, and I want to look to expand how we use it,” she said

Julie, of Barrow-upon-Trent, meanwhile, has also been close to the development of the MSP in a different way: her son Oliver has been a playing member of Melbourne Rugby Club since he was a young boy

“I have been involved in the rugby club for about 23 years,” she said

“I used to make bacon and sausage sandwiches for visitors and players when the Minis and Juniors trained and played at Chellaston school Working here and meeting so many different people from all the sport clubs is great

“It’s a fabulous place that offers so much for the Melbourne community and surrounding area ”

As for Malcolm, he is happy to be working back at the MSP whose vision, he said, had been fully realised from those early meetings he was involved in many years ago

ELVASTON - THULSTON - AMBASTON - BARROW- ON -TRENT - BREEDON

GE - TWYFORD - ISLEY WALTON - WESTON - ON -TRENT

SMISBY - MILTON - MELBOURNE - KINGS NEWTON - TICKNALL

UNT - STANTON - BY- BRIDGE - SWARKESTONE - WILSON - STAUNTON HAROLD

GE - TWYFORD - ISLEY WALTON - WESTON - ON -TRENT

ASTON - ON -TRENT - ELVASTON - THULSTON

AMBASTON - BARROW- ON -TRENT - BREEDON FINDERN - SMISBY - MILTON

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He said: “I feel it has been great It’s absolutely realised what we hoped it would We saw the potential and it has been realised Even when I wasn’t directly involved with it so much, I used to drive past and feel a certain sense of pride

“There are very few communities of this size which have a site of this quality ”

Dynamo pay the

MELBOURNE Dynamo FC’s senior sides began the new year with double heartbreak as both lost their respective Derbyshire Cup semi-finals to huge disappointment within the club.

The first team had their fixture reversed as they hosted Derby Singh Brothers in the Divisional Cup South The teams could not be separated in normal time as Jack Goodband and Carl Allsop got themselves on the scoresheet in the 2-2 draw Unfortunately, a couple of misses in the penalty shoot-out meant Dynamo failed to make the final Melbourne Dynamo Reserves travelled to Mickleover RBL Reserves for their semi-final in the Derbyshire County Junior Cup South and, despite a rare Adam Smith goal, they bowed out 2-1 Back in league action a week later Adam Dolman’s men made it eight consecutive league victories as they beat high-flying Mayfield

3-2 at home with Conor Poynton, James Smith and Jack Goodband getting the all important goals

But it was Cup disappointment a week later for the first team as they were knocked out of the league cup after a long trip to Rotherham to take on North of England Academy

In an entertaining match a double from Oscar Supple plus strikes from James Smith and Charlie Tovell meant it was 4-4 in normal time but Dynamo’s penalty curse struck again as they lost 4-1 on spot kicks to end the month on a low

The Reserves did have something to cheer in their final game of January as they beat Shirebrook Rangers 3-0 at home to move into the final 16 of the Challenge Cup

Cody Evans, Pav Sohota and leading goal scorer Joe Shadbolt all got themselves on the scoresheet

It was reported to the latest meeting of Melbourne Parish Council that the sporting partnership is looking at LED lighting as well as wind turbines