DINERS QUESTION LOCAL MP

LOCAL MP Michelle Donelan has been quizzed by local people at Melksham Free Dining.

“The event, at Bowerhill Village Hall, proved to be very informative,” said one of the organisers, Deedee McLeod. “The diners, armed with their questions, spent an hour  discussing both the political situation and their frustrations nearer to home.

“Whilst the focus was on both the rising energy costs and the cost of living, the diners were more interested in discussing the lack of facilities and services in their town.  

“Melksham’s high street was a talking point with a request to lift the ambience of the street with new shops which would encourage visitors and more local shopping.  Most residents travel to Trowbridge or Chippenham where they can find an array of shops but sadly that cannot be said of Melksham. 

“Even with the opening of Melksham Campus, diners observed that there were few facilities at the campus for the aged and that this was true of Melksham town itself.  Michelle asked for a list of facilities that the diners would like to see introduced so she could encourage the Wiltshire Council to review facilities for the older generation.” 

Louisa Lewis, founder of Melksham Free Dining, together with director Deedee Macleod explained that the free meal and activities offered each Wednesday at Bowerhill were a great help to many residents and they were now looking to expand.  

“The ever increasing population due mostly to the new housing estates was high on the agenda with diners concerned at the lack of doctors’ surgeries, dentists and hospitals.,” added Deedee. “Michelle assured the group that she was pushing hard to develop the facilities at Melksham’s hospital, and others country-wide,  in order that local surgeries would be relieved and also so that residents would not have to travel outside of their area for some treatments.  

“Interestingly some diners asked what benefits has the country seen since Brexit.   Michelle pointed out several,  including decisions made regarding the use of the Covid vaccine.  These decisions were not hampered by EU rules which resulted in the vaccination programme being able to be implemented weeks ahead of Europe.

“Payment for car parking for Blue Badge holders was certainly a bone of contention.  Michelle explained it had been Wiltshire County Council’s decision and she had been strongly opposed to it .

“As Question Time came to an end, the MP  spent time with several of the diners listening to their personal problems and needs with much empathy and kindness; Michelle promised to look in to each case. 

“As she said her goodbyes, there was a strong feeling that Michelle was not there for the votes, she was there because she really cared.”

Mamma Mia film and sing-a-long

Mamma Mia came to Melksham Free Dining at Bowerhill Village Hall recently with diners treated to an afternoon of music, dance and singing with a screening of the hit film.  

40 diners enjoyed their free lunch box  full of delicious goodies and mouth watering cakes, courtesy of volunteers Jilly and Lynn.  

“Dancing  Queen proved  the most popular song as diners and volunteers took to the floor showing great dance movements!” said Dee Macleod, one of the organisers.

“As the dancing gained momentum, Lynn Bennett , a regular diner was crowned Dancing Queen. She was awarded a special cake made by Sue, a volunteer who had baked it especially for the occasion. Sue judged the dancing and said Lynn was a worthy winner.”

Louisa Lewis, founder of Melksham Free Dining, said, “It was such fun seeing all our diners participating and enjoying themselves,  so much so that there was a request for the Sound of Music next time.  We will certainly hold this event again  later in the year but at the moment we are preparing for our one year old celebration; another happy event for the Diners to enjoy.  

“I hope other adult residents reading this and seeing how friendships can be forged will have the confidence to call me and book a place on our Wednesday Free lunches.”