Melton
The Sign
A sign with many themes. The two churches are most prominent at the top, separated by a large tree as in the churchyard at the new church on the right, only a short distance from this sign. The old church on the left, located midway between Melton and Ufford is still in use and for hire as a venue for any occasion. Wilford Bridge over the River Deben looms large in the picture, complete with a sailing barge. A wheatsheaf, ploughed field, ice cutting plough and blacksmith's anvil complete the picture of Melton past and present.
The sign is in cast metal, designed and made by Mr.D.F.Wright and cast by Thurston Foundries and was erected in 1998.
The Name and Population
The population was 3,741 at the 2011 census. It was called Meltune 1042-66 and Meltuna in 1086. It possibly means " The farmstead or estate with a crucifix" or the first element may refer to a 'mill'.
Other Points of Interest
Musician Brian Eno was born in the village on 15 May 1948.
Both churches shown are dedicated to St Andrew. The new church includes a Seven Sacrament Font, taken from the old church. The old church can be hired as a venue.
Melton Beacon
The Beacon at the Melton Road playing fields , which was installed as part of the centenary commemorations of the end of WW1 in 2018, has been augmented with a shield depicting the Melton emblem (also seen on the village sign). Designer Simon Benton joined members of the Melton Heritage group and Rachel Smith-Lyte and Colin Birkbeck, who kindly made donations towards the costs, to mark the shield being installed.
There are also several roundels displayed on the front of the post and one on the back. These plaques commemorate 100 years of the end of WWI, the 75th Anniversary of VE day (Victory in Europe) & VJ Day (Victory in Japan) and a plaque celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee on the front. The one on the back celebrates the 80th D-Day anniversary on 6th June 2024.
Melton Beacon Roundels
Melton St Andrew new church
