Goodbye to an iconic tree.
We are very sad to report that permission has been granted by East Suffolk Council, to fell an iconic tree in Melton. The large Cedar at the top of Melton Hill has been assessed by two independent tree surgeons and it was found to be “in the fourth quarter of expected life for the species”. The report also identified bark present at a major fork and a limb wrapped over another, both deemed as areas of potential weakness which could result in the tree falling on Melton Hill.
There is a condition of the felling permission that another tree is planted in its place. This tree will be missed by many I’m sure.
VE Day Commemorations
8th May 2025 sees the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe; known as Victory in Europe, or VE Day.
Melton Parish Council will be marking the occasion and the upcoming occasion of VJ DAY (Victory in Japan) with a small event on the Recreation Ground. Starting at 8:30pm, there will be 1940’s music. A short ceremony will begin at 9.15pm with the lighting of the beacon and the sounding of the last post at 9.30pm. This has become a tradition for Melton and I am very much looking forward to seeing you there.
Councillor News
It is with great sadness that I have to inform you of the passing of Cllr. Michael (Mike) Holmes. Mike had been a Councillor for a number of years and was well known in the village; he was a great help at the fete and could often be seen around the village on his push bike, checking on trees and holding Flagship to account on behalf of residents. He will be sadly missed.
As a result, and as other Councillors consider retirement, we have upcoming vacancies on the Council. Could you join our team? The role of a Parish Councillor is hugely rewarding and a great opportunity to help shape your community. You have to be over 18 years old and a UK citizen. If you are interested, please email our Clerk, Judi, at clerk@melton-suffolk-pc.gov.uk Judi can give you all the details and send you an application form.
It is ideal for a Parish Council to represent the demographic of the community, so we would love to hear from younger people, i.e. those under 50! Having said that, all applications will be most welcome.
The Circus is coming to Melton!
Russells International Circus will be visiting Melton Recreation Ground between 14th – 18th May 2025, on their 20th Anniversary Tour. Show times will be Weekdays: 6pm only, Saturday: 3pm & 6pm, and Sunday: 12noon only.
For more information and to buy tickets visit https://www.russellscircus.co.uk/the-show/
Finally, you might have noticed that my briefings for the Melton Messenger haven’t necessarily followed the normal lines recently. I have been overseas for an extended period visiting my sick sister in Australia. My thanks go to all the staff and Councillors of MPC who have kept the show on the road whilst I have been away. It just goes to show that team work means no one person is indispensable. Thank goodness for that.
Carol Gradwell, Chair Melton Parish Council