No.84 Autumn 2015 - U3A Site Builder

SPALDING AND
DISTRICT U3A
AUTUMN NEWSLETTER
SEPTEMBER 2015
No. 84
WELCOME to our AUTUMN NEWSLETTER for 2015.
Enclosed you will find details of our new COMMITTEE, and articles on some INTEREST
GROUPS, MEETINGS and OUTINGS which we hope will be informative and of interest.
Our Website can be accessed on this address:- www.u3asites.org.uk/spalding
It is kept up to date by Ian McCallum and if you would like to publish any articles please contact
him
1
OUR NEW COMMITTEE
Rosemary McClements Chair
Gill Allen - Vice Chair
01775 766504
Wendy McCallum Treasurer and Membership
Secretary -
[email protected]
Please contact any
member of the committee
if you would like help or
more information.
Sylvia Bush – Secretary
Richard Groombridge Committee Member
Jon Healey – Group Cocoordinator
Roger Perkins - Committee
Member
2
Bernice Adcock – Speaker
Finder
WHAT’S ON
FORTHCOMING MEETINGS AND OUTINGS
U3A Monthly Meetings are held in the Surfleet Village Hall, Station Road, Surfleet
PE11 4BW on the first Thursday of each month from 1:30 pm.
1 October
U3A Monthly Meeting — AIR AMBULANCE — Today we will learn all about
this very worthy cause
22 October
OUTING - THE ELIZABETHAN EXPERIENCE — Outing to The Globe Theatre
in London. Contact Gill Allen [email protected] or Ian McCallum
.
5 November
U3A Monthly Meeting — SPALDING UKULELE ORCHESTRA — So
very popular last year, will we have standing room only?
3 December
U3A Monthly Meeting — OUR CHRISTMAS GET TOGETHER — An
opportunity for all members to meet, bring and share festive food and drink.
Come and enjoy being entertained by several displays with the odd surprise in
store from our many members. — NOT TO BE MISSED
2016
7 January
U3A Monthly Meeting - “AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 PICTURES” - Steven
Lovell, the well known local travel and natural history photographer is coming
along to brighten up this first week of the year with one of his sensational
illustrated talks.
4 February
U3A Monthly Meeting - SPALDING FIRE SERVICE, AND CREW, if available,
are coming along to give us a fire safety talk, etc.
3 March
U3A Monthly Meeting - “MISS SAVILLE MOVES HER HOUSE” - A truly
inspirational story as told to us by her niece, Christine Adams, on how this lady
moves her home, brick by brick, from Hertfordshire to Norfolk. Watch out for the
forth coming film which is presently under discussion.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Please do not share details of any U3A Group Leader or member with anybody without their
direct consent. This relates to email addresses, phone numbers and addresses. This is to
ensure compliance with the Data Protection Act.
3
NEW CHAIR’S REPORT
The U3A annual conference and AGM took place at the end of August. We can forget that
Spalding U3A comes under the auspices of The Third Age Trust, with its own chair, committee
and set of accounts. The conference was packed with workshops and discussion groups and
much opportunity to network with delegates from other U3As across the country. There was also
a generous amount of food consumed – reader, I don’t normally eat three cooked meals a day
but it was great.
The strapline ‘Learn, laugh and live’ was prominently displayed around the conference centre so
what did I learn? Well there are 343,243 members spread across 963 groups in the UK and
whilst these are autonomous we all adhere to the same overarching principles. The founders
believed that there is a huge reservoir of ability and knowledge among older people which could
be shared. So in the U3A there is no distinction between teachers and learners; we are all U3A
members. We ‘share’ our learning in interest groups.
But here’s the rub. We currently have interest groups which are full and/or have waiting lists.
That keenness to ‘learn, laugh and live’ is thwarted at the first hurdle! Like plenty of other local
clubs, and indeed other U3A’s in Lincolnshire, members like to have a huge choice of things to
do, but like to leave the organising to others. The work still has to be done, and if YOU could give
a little help, it would be very much appreciated.
It’s the start of a new U3A year so to paraphrase President JF Kennedy: ‘Ask not what your U3A
can do for you but what you can do for your U3A’.
Please let me know your views and ideas.
Thank you.
Rosemary McClements
OUR NEW CHAIRMAN
THINGS YOU (POSSIBLY) WANTED TO KNOW
BUT FELT YOU COULDN’T ASK.
Name: Rosemary McClements – the surname I acquired from my late husband who came from
County Down. Now I don’t think anyone under 50 is called Rosemary but our time will come.
Age: cheeky! Let’s just say I’m a baby boomer.
4
OUR NEW CHAIRMAN (CONT’D)
Lives: Gosberton. It has everything you could want in terms of facilities – it’s just a shame so
many lorries use the village to get to the A52.
Cat or dog: cat definitely and she’s called Jemima.
Likes: time spent with family and friends
Loves: my six grandchildren who are still young enough not to mind hugs and kisses (and my
children of course)
Dislikes: cutting the grass, tapioca pudding and cleaning windows.
Favourite book: Rebecca by Dauphne Du Maurier.
Least favourite book: Lord of the Flies by William Golding. I taught GCSE English to adults for
many years and this was a popular exam board choice – enough said.
Earliest memory: seeing my new born sister lying in her cot at the end of my mother’s bed – I
was not impressed! She has been chair of Blaby U3A (Leicestershire) for the last two years – I’m
playing catch up.
When were you happiest?: actually I’m a positive person and see the glass as half full but
probably happiest when we lived in Northern Ireland - this despite the ’Troubles’ which did
impact on our day to day lives. Northern Ireland now has 24 U3A groups, impressive for the
small population.
What’s the trait you most deplore in yourself?: I can procrastinate sometimes but I’m working on
it!
What’s the trait you most deplore in others?: those who moan and complain rather than getting
on and doing something.
What single thing has improved the quality of your life?: I built a modest conservatory to the back
of my house and I spend as much time as possible there.
Finally, why did you join the U3A?: my life was changed dramatically in January 2012. The U3A
gave me the opportunity to try new activities and meet new people which encouraged me to cut
down on the long working hours I was needlessly doing to fill in the day.
Rosemary McClements
5
OUTGOING CHAIR’S REPORT FOR AGM
SEPTEMBER 2015
I have now stood as Chair for 3 years and it is time for me to step down. I have thoroughly
enjoyed my time on the committee apart from a couple of sad occasions. John Barker, my
original Vice Chair sadly passed away and this year, Roy Fisher discovered he was very ill.
When I first took over from Peter Chapman, I remember that he told me that it was a
responsibility running the U3A. He was right, not only are we responsible for the money side of
things, but we also have to make decisions on the running of the Group. An example was when
we made the decision to move the venue of the monthly meetings from Pinchbeck to Surfleet
Village Hall as we felt we had outgrown Pinchbeck and there were no disabled facilities there.
This year Spalding and District U3A have been very busy holding events. Ian McCallum
organised a trip to the Greyhound Racing at Peterborough; Ken Bush held a couple of quiz nights
and a treasure hunt; we had a summer afternoon tea and Magna Carta exhibition provided by
Tessa Chapman; Bernice arranged for another RSPB trip out onto the Wash and is also
organising a trip to the National Memorial Arboretum, following an interesting talk from one of
their staff. Several of the Groups have arranged trips out this summer as well. We have had trips
to Kings Lynn theatre, Burleigh House, Elgoods Brewery, Peckover House, Vineyards & Dairy
farms in Norfolk and Norwich cathedral. We have a trip coming up to the Globe theatre in
London. I would like to thank everyone for all their hard work organising such great days out for
us.
I had a leaving party for the committee last week and before everyone arrived I thought I would
look for some jokes on committees. They were all pretty scathing about committees as you would
expect. For example - A committee is a group that keeps minutes and loses hours. – very
relevant in our case.
I then had a look at quotes for teamwork and they fitted better. For example
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it
is the only thing that ever has.
Not that we wanted to change the world! But we have made changes and as with any group of
people there have been disagreements but with all the positive feedback we have had and the
steadily increasing membership, I feel we have made changes, which have been of benefit. For
example we have introduced a New Members Meeting where we can explain the U3A to our new
members. This has been welcomed.
I would like to thank my team for all their hard work. This team includes all the helpers at the
monthly meetings, the Group Leaders and of course my committee.
I would also like to wish our new Chair all the best and hope that person has as much fun as I
have had.
Gill Allen
6
GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR’S REPORT
Well – the Open Day in August was the highlight of 2015 so far since it showed what Spalding &
District U3A can achieve when we all work together (and I’m not just talking about the Hog
Roast).
There were a vast array of stalls presented by Family History,
Gardening, Jazz/Big Band, Pergamano, Needle Craft,
Patchwork/Quilting, Churches, Mah Jong, Computers, Pottery,
Art Groups 1 and 2 and the Theatre groups to name but a few.
The History Group brought along the display that was so
popular at our recent Magna Carta event.
On the main stage, the combined photography groups led by
Margaret Crossgrill presented a 10 minute audio/visual feast of
pictures and music after a rousing set of songs from Singing
for Fun led by Tessa. Five members of Carol’s Poetry Group
read Love poems and the Fun Disco Dance group, whilst on
their summer break, put twenty of its members and guests on
for an 8 minute series of routines. A song from Beverley and
a silly sketch from Jon and Ian completed the performances.
With over 40 groups to
choose from I believe there is
something for everyone. However, if you think there’s an
activity missing let me know and we’ll see if we can fill the gap.
Better still, come forward as a new Group Leader and together
we can add your interest to our ever-growing collection.
My submission to this newsletter is shorter than usual for the
best of reasons. Elsewhere are over a dozen articles from
individual groups with interesting stories to tell.
Finally, my thanks to all the Group Leaders who make our U3A
the undoubted success it is. Our next meeting is at Pinchbeck
Library on Monday 5 October at 2pm.
Jon Healey – Groups Co-ordinator
NEW MEMBERS
A very warm welcome to our new members who have recently joined:
Dianne Peter, Daphne King, Michael Dancer, Geoff Craft, Eileen Berry, Keith Berry, Paul Lockie,
Eva Harding-Bell, Janet Chamberlain, Christopher Bullock, Ann Bullock, Pamela Caccavele,
David Shaw, Martyn Rainer, Jane Webb, Beverley Meekings, Charles Penney, Evelyn Penney,
Valeria Grundon
We are delighted to welcome so many new members and hope you will enjoy the U3A.
7
NEWS OF MEETINGS AND EVENTS SINCE THE LAST
NEWSLETTER
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUPS 1 AND 2
On Tuesday 1st September fourteen members of Photo Group 1 and 2 met in the car park of
Deeping Lakes. Having experienced some dreadful weather the past few days it was a welcome
sight to see the sun and a few white clouds. There are two large lakes full of Swans,
Cormorants, Herons, Great Crested Grebes
and other small birds. At this time of the
year the trees are heavily loaded with
different kind of berries and fruit, giving us
an opportunity to photograph beautiful
Damselflies and Dragonflies. On some of
the walks around the lake the trees form a
canopy giving rise to beautiful dappled
shade, a haven for different fungi. The walk
finished along side the bank of the River
Welland where we encountered a herd of
cows and their calves. They were very
photogenic . From the Lakes we moved on
to The Goat at Frognall where we all
enjoyed a well-deserved lunch, and the sun was still shining !!!!!
Margaret Crossgrill
SECOND ANNUAL U3A QUIZ
On Friday evening of 20th February the Second Quiz Evening was held
at the Castle Sports centre and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Ten
rounds of ten questions were excellently compiled and presented by
Ken Bush, a big thank you is extended to Ken & Gill Allen for their work
in making the evening plus thanks to the bar staff at the centre for a
very good fish supper. The winners on the evening were Margaret &
Peter Crossgrill, Linda & David Walters, Barbara Charity and Lyn Kite
who also won last year. The booby prize went to...........
8
AUGUST MONTHLY MEETING - OPEN DAY
The August Monthly Meeting 'Open Day
& Hog Roast' was held on 6th August
and proved to be a resounding success.
Many congratulations to all the groups
who put up excellent and informative
static stands, well done.
The groups who performed visual
displays really shone.
Singing for Fun sang beautifully
accompanied by Jacqueline.
The Poetry Group read wonderful poems whilst the Photography Groups Audio Visual
presentation showed what can be done with a 'box brownie'.
Bev gave a moving rendition of 'The First Time' and Jon & Ian also did a short sketch.
The highlight of the show was a Grand Finale by the Disco Fun Dance Group, ably
assisted by 'Pseudo Village People', of dance favourites.
Special thanks to Sharp's Butchers of Gosberton for tasty pulled pork baps with stuffing.
Many thanks Chair Gill and her committee and all who assisted, performed and
attended to make this a memorable occasion.
ANNUAL TRIP TO 'THE DOGS'.
On 27th May 28 S & D U3A members enjoyed a good
meal, a few drinks and 14 great races on this annual
outing. We did not get our promised Sponsored Race and
we are still waiting to hear from the Stadium Manager as to
what went wrong. Still everybody seemed to have a good
time which is part of the U3A tenet.
9
U3A VISIT TO NORWICH
On 25 June forty seven member set off for a day in
Norwich. Fine weather had been ordered and the
provider duly obliged. The coach left the Castle
Sports Centre at 8 am and after a two hour, carefully
driven journey, we arrived in the City. Road works
made vehicular access and parking by the Cathedral
impossible.
However we alighted and people went their separate
ways to shop, explore churches or museums. Most
searched for a coffee shop / restaurant but with
hundreds available this task was successfully
completed without much trouble.
Some of us who declined the opportunity to shop, i.e. men, had a leisurely walk down Elm Hill
(cobbled street), then along by the river and met a group watching and studying the peregrine
falcons which nest regularly near the top of the Cathedral spire.
A quick tour around the outdoor market meant lunch time approached and again there are many
eating places in Norwich. In days gone by there was a church for every week of the year and a
pub for every day of the year, although some of the churches have ceased being places of
worship and now exist as, for example, scout halls.
Gradually, after exploring the tiny streets and alleys, the group assembled in the Cathedral for a
guided tour. Norwich Cathedral has the second highest spire in the country and its connection
with the school nearby enables it to claim Horatio Nelson as one of its regular visitors.
Apparently for some unknown reason Nelson was excluded from the school which then led him
to take an interest in the sea, and the rest, of course, is history.
All too soon it was time to depart for Spalding but one further treat lay in store
for the travelers as the bus driver left Norwich via Carrow Road. Sadly one
member was heard to ask what was at Carrow Road but she was quickly
informed of the importance of this place and so paid her due respects as we
passed by.
It is difficult to do justice in one day to a place like Norwich which has retained many interesting
old buildings, despite modern day pressures to update roads etc. Hopefully some on the party
may feel like returning to see more of what is described on the signs as Norwich, a fine city.
Many thanks are expressed to Ken Bush, the organiser, by all who went on the Norwich trip.
Also to Nick, the driver, for very smooth and trouble free journeys, also for keeping Sylvia off of
the microphone.
10
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
THE ELIZABETHAN EXPERIENCE
We have received a leaflet from Regional Office
regarding visits for U3A Members to Shakespeare’s
Globe Theatre.
The theatre is a faithful reconstruction of the open air
Bankside Playhouse first built in 1599.
The visit
includes a guided tour of the Globe Theatre and the
nearby site of the Rose Playhouse, the Globe
Exhibition including a demonstration of Elizabethan
dress and how it was worn and refreshments in the
Swan Bar overlooking the Thames towards St Paul’s
Cathedral.
The tour will take place on the 22nd October, is priced at £19 per head and lasts about 3.5
hours for the four elements. Travel to London would be by coach and would cost £21 per
person. The total cost therefore being £40. If you would like to join the trip please contact Ian
McCallum.
___________________________________
The group has not been over active over the summer as a lot of the films have been children
friendly offerings. If there is anything that you would suggest to make a booking for please
contact Gill Allen [email protected] or Ian McCallum.
GROUP NEWS
A PLEA
Would every member of a group please inform the Group Leader whether or
not you are going to attend a meeting.
This assists the Group Leader in planning the meeting and being able to
invite others if the meeting is not fully attended.
Thank you.
11
SINGING FOR FUN
AT THE GOSBERTON BAPTIST CHURCH FLOWER FESTIVAL
The Singing for Fun Group was invited to sing at the Gosberton Baptist Church Flower Festival
on the Saturday of the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Thankfully, it was a warm and sunny day for the Festival and the Church was decorated with
beautiful flower arrangements. We sang at the Flower Festival last year so it was nice to be
invited for a return visit.
We started at 2.00 pm, the programme consisted of medleys and songs from Oklahoma, 42 nd
Street, Me and My Gal, Hans Christian Anderson, a couple of “jazz” numbers and songs from
the 50’s and 60’s – in fact something for everybody. We finished fittingly with Vera Lynn’s
“We’ll Meet Again”.
The group had a good time singing the songs they love and at the same time helping to raise
funds for the Church. I would like to thank members who gave of their time, especially on a
Bank Holiday weekend, to entertain visitors at the Flower Festival.
We meet once a month at Pinchbeck just to enjoy singing and trying out new songs – we have
plenty of room for new members to join us.
Tessa Chapman
CRIBBAGE GROUP
The Crib Group is full however we do have a couple of places for
those who would like to learn and advance their knowledge by initially
watching experienced players with the intention of maybe taking on
and playing a game with guidance, we generally take it in turns to play
in each other's homes and it has been known for me to rustle up the
odd scone or two!
Ken Challans
12
THEATRE AND FILM GROUP
Romeo & Juliet
On the twelfth day of aug’st in the year of our
Lord 2015, twelve good pers’ns of Spalding and
District U3A did undert’ke a sojourn to Tolethorpe
Hall in the hamlet of Little Casterton. There they
did partake of an alfresco repaste before
perusing a recit’l of the Trajedy ‘Romeo & Juliet’
penned by the wordsmith Mr Shakespeare of
Stratford. A bold tale of two star cross’d lov’rs
from warring families which result’d in the soul
rend’r’d lov’rs departing this mortal coil by thern
own hands. The families, in join’d grief, did then
lay down thern arms.
A performance set in a gypsy camp, differing from the original script, was enjoyed by all and
similar outings will hopefully be forthcoming.
Ian McCallum
(Editor’s Note: Spellchecker is a wonderful assistant (if like me) you can’t spell but
it did not like the spelling in this article. However to preserve its authenticity it
remains in ‘Shakespearean English’.)
INDOOR BOWLS
The summer indoor bowls has been a success again. A big
thanks to all who attended to ensure that we all enjoyed our time
on the rinks.
Also a huge thanks to Fred Hurst for his help in making this
another good year.
Another thank you to John Little who produced a masterpiece of
hilarious art for Fred.
I look forward to next year, when I hope we can do it all again.
Richard Agate
13
CRUISING DOWN THE RIVER
RSPB BIRD WATCHING TRIP - 7th August 2015
Following our very successful Wash Cruise last year I was asked if I would organise another for
this year. You always worry the 2nd time around but I needn’t have as our party of 29 Spalding
and District U3A members had a thoroughly enjoyable day out aboard the boat “The Boston
Belle”.
Like last year the weather
was perfect and the birds
and seals were plentiful.
This trip is a very special trip
as it is one, the Volunteers
of the local branch of the
RSPB organise. Norman is
in charge of the charter and
manning of the boats and
today he arranged Gary, Jim
and Neal to deal with the
Spotting of Birds and
Commentary side of things
for us. We were very lucky
to be able to log the sightings of 62 different species
of birds and about 200 seals.
Our Captains Rodney and
Peter gave us a very good
cruise up and down the rivers to and from the Wash. “The Boston Belle” is the only boat that has
a licence to cruise 1-1/2 miles into the Wash with customers aboard.
We had a very early start and were aboard the boat leaving the moorings at the Quay in Boston
in time for the tide about 9.30 am. Our trip lasted around 5 hours and the day seemed to fly by.
So much to see and being able to relax in the sunshine with someone else ‘behind the wheel’
made it a lovely summers day out. Food and drink was catered for with the welcome smell and
taste of bacon rolls being prepared in the galley. Who could have asked for more?
I think we were all amazed and surprised to learn that so many types of birds frequent this
locality and it was such a pleasure and privilege to see them in this environment so close to our
homes. We were able to appreciate a gentle pace of life and experience that wonderful word
‘nature’.
Once again, what a difference joining an outing with the Spalding and District U3A can make.
You don’t always need to travel miles to enjoy a day out and it is something very special when
you are able to enjoy it within the company of others.
Bernice Adcock
14
SPRINGFIELD GARDENS VISIT
The Garden Group enjoyed a guided tour of Springfield's Festival Gardens on 10th August,
organized by Philip James. We were met, outside Frankie and Benny's restaurant, by Inga and
Barry from the Springfield's Horticultural Society Ltd, who showed us around the gardens, with
plenty of information about their history and development.
Barry explained that the gardens were opened in 1966, founded by Len Van Geest, known as
'Mr Len' the father of the British
Bulb Industry. He went to the
traders in the town asking for £100
donations to get the gardens
started because he wanted to
showcase the bulb industry that
the area was famous for. His
name is inscribed on the Sundial
in the Sundial Garden.
Barry and Inga said that the
Gardens were completely
redeveloped in 2004, in
conjunction with Springfield's
Horticultural Society.
The 25 acres include Chelseastyle celebrity showcase gardens, with designs by Charlie Dimmock, Chris Beardshaw, Kim
Wilde, Steven Woodhams, and a spectacular Japanese Garden by Sansui Design. There are
also a Founders garden, a Memorial garden, dedicated to those who died for their country,
interactive guided walks, as well as other attractions including a miniature railway in the
woodland area and a land train, both taking visitors around the gardens. Springfield's also have
Display Fountains, the first of their kind in the UK, combining music, water and lights for
wonderful shows. They are often used in events, such as the firework display in November.
There is a Head Gardener and five permanent Gardeners looking after the site.
Apart from the gardens, Springfield's boasts an Events Centre, a Travelodge and 55+ retail
outlets and eating places.
We also saw an area, not open to the public, where they are trialing different types of runner
beans for yield etc. After thanking Inga and Barry for an enjoyable and informative tour of our
local attraction, there was still time for coffee and shopping.
Peter Crossgrill
15
FANCY A GAME OF CANASTA?
Canasta is a type of Rummy card game whose origins date back to 1939
where the game started in Montevideo in Uruguay. The game we now know
as Modern Canasta was developed in the US in the 1950’s and at one point
was more popular than Contract Bridge. The game is for 2 to 6 players who
play in pairs. The canasta deck is two full packs of cards.
We are trying to get a canasta group up and running this autumn. Perhaps you played as a child
or, like myself, had never much played card games. We can teach you the rules which are
simpler than say, bridge. We take it seriously enough to want to win but never forget that ‘it’s
just a game’ so there’s plenty of chat as we play. I like it for the modest mental workout, the
opportunity to try a bit of bluffing and its sociability.
If you’re interested please contact Rosemary McClements for more details. We can decide on a
day/time for meetings as suits.
Rosemary McClements
FRIENDSHIP GROUP
For our August meeting a group of 9 of us went for a very enjoyable afternoon tea at St Nicholas
House, lots of sandwiches, scones, strawberries and cream, also cakes.
Sunday lunch in August was at the Woodlands Hotel, where there were 10 of us on a round table
so we were all able to chat to one another and were serenaded as we ate our meal, good food
and very pleasant and friendly.
Would anyone wishing to joining the group please ring Susan or Janet as we are trying different
venues for our monthly meetings on the first Friday of every month.
Janet Wise
TREASURE HUNT
More than 30 people crawled around Cowbit and searched around
Weston Hills and Surfleet as part of a treasure hunt. The event was
organised by Ken Bush. This years winning team, by just one point,
was Roger and Edna Perkins with Dennis and Sylvia Wilkinson. They
received their trophy at The Crown, Surfleet.
16
HISTORY AND GARDEN GROUPS’ VISIT TO ELGOOD’S
AND PECKOVER HOUSE AND GARDENS IN WISBECH
The History Group has been looking at life in Victorian times, so as a follow up to our studies this
year we decided to visit Peckover House and Gardens. Some of our members are also in the
Garden Group so we thought it would be a good idea to invite other members of this group to
join us on the visit.
It started to rain early in the morning and I wondered how many members would turn up!
Nevertheless, members did turn up, undeterred with macs and umbrellas determined to enjoy
the day. The weather forecast had been good for Tuesday, 18 August but how wrong they were
– it didn’t stop raining all day!
We started by visiting Elgood’s Gardens. Elgood’s is one of
the oldest classic Georgian breweries; built in 1795 and still in
full working order. It is a family run business and behind the
brewery is a 4 acre garden with magnificent specimen trees.
There is a lake and maze together with formal and informal
areas.
We enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Elgood’s before setting off to Peckover House, a short distance
away. We had pre-booked a Garden Tour with a National Trust Garden’s Guide. It was very
interesting; our Guide managed to find some shelter for us in several summerhouses and an
orangery en route. We learned a lot about the history of the gardens as well as the beautiful
trees and plants.
Peckover House is a Georgian townhouse on three floors, built
around 1722 and was the home of a Quaker banking family.
In 1948 it was bequeathed to the National Trust. The 2 acre
Victorian Garden is one of the finest examples of a walled
town garden to be found anywhere in the country. There are
over 70 types of roses and two ponds, a croquet lawn and a
cobble maze. The orangery contains fruiting orange trees that
are over 300 years old.
In true U3A tradition we ended our visit in the tea room known as the “Reed Barn” which is a
17th century thatched barn. They served cream teas, delicious cakes and pastries and all
agreed it had been an interesting and enjoyable day in spite of the weather.
I intend to visit Elgood’s and Peckover House again – my first visit was a “taster” – there is so
much more to see and, hopefully, next time in the sunshine!
The History Group will be meeting again, after a summer break, in September. We hire a room
in Pinchbeck once a month and will be continuing in the Victorian period; we have some good
and interesting projects “in the pipeline”. There is plenty of room for new members – so if you
enjoy history and want to know more about the group come along for a taster session.
Tessa Chapman - Group Leader
17
HAPPY WANDERERS
A first for the Happy Wanderers was achieved in May with a walk starting and ending in The
Clubhouse at Spalding Golf Club. Many thanks to Mary & John for organising a figure of eight,
five mile walk based around the River Glen. An excellent, plentiful and inexpensive lunch and
drinks was enjoyed by all in the Clubhouse restaurant.
June saw 13 members assembling at the Wishing Well Inn at Dyke. 4¾ miles of walking along
very pleasant tracks and fields through Fox Wood to Morton Village and back ended with
refreshments, having been joined by three more members, at the Wishing Well. Thanks from all
to Megan & Michael on the day plus Hilary beforehand for the preparations and execution of an
excellent day.
In July ten group members and a guest walker from
Berkshire made the longish journey to Wing in Rutland
and enjoyed a 6 mile walk overlooking Rutland Water.
We walked for 3 1/2 miles enjoying varied scenery and
then had a pleasant picnic lunch before completing the
sojourn. A refreshing cup of tea at the Veranda Bar,
Wing Hall before a leisurely journey home. Many thanks
to Lynn and Rosemary for a well planned and executed
trip.
Ian McCallum
HAPPY WANDERERS PART 2
Phillip & Clooney led a party of twelve on a walk around the fields and lanes of Fleet Hargate. A
short stop at St Mary Magdalene Church at Gedney Church End before completing a circular tour
of approximately 4 to 41/2 miles ending at The Chestnut Tea Rooms for a very good lunch and
chinwag. Many thanks to the organisers for a rewarding and, almost dry, stroll.
Ian McCallum
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VISITING LOCAL CHURCHES
Kirton Church
Our visit in August was to Kirton. The church is
awaiting the appointment of a new minister so at
the moment it is operating in the capable hands
of Carol Lidgett, church warden, who warmly
welcomed our group of thirty members and gave
an interesting presentation.
The earliest church was built in the form of a
cross but in 1804 the central tower was
demolished along with other parts, the chancel
was shortened and the tower reconstructed at
the end of the building. Rebuilding was
completed in 1809 but since then other
modifications have taken place, including a split organ and new heating system.
As usual the afternoon concluded with refreshments and a photograph session for the church
website.
Ken Bush
The Visiting Local Churches Group went to St. John the Baptist Church in Spalding in July. The
church was originally opened in 1875 so it is not old by many standards but internally it is brand
new. This church has been completely revamped during the past year, so it was interesting to
see and worth a visit.
TRIVIA
Europe!!!!???
Pythagoras' theorem contains 24 words.
The Lord's Prayer contains 66 words.
Archimedes' Principle contains 67 words.
The 10 Commandments contain 179 words.
Gettysburg address contains 286 words.
US Declaration of Independence contains 1,300 words.
US Constitution with all 27 Amendments contains 7,818 words.
And finally
The EU regulations on the sale of cabbage contains 26,911 words
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♩ ♫ ♬
MUSIC STUDY GROUP
♭ ♮ ♯
This group has been running since September 2005, and we now meet weekly on Tuesday
mornings in members’ homes. Usually we meet for 10 -12 weeks from September to December
and again from January to Easter, with 4 less – structured monthly meetings over the summer.
3 or 4 members plan the programmes and present the sessions, introducing and playing
recordings.
We all listen to classical music on CDs and Radio 3 and/or classic FM, and we go to concerts,
but most of us do not play an instrument. There is a wide range in the level of knowledge and
musical experience within the group, and you do not need to read music or to know music theory.
Our aim is to increase our enjoyment of music by learning more about it in its context, focussing
our listening and discussion on a particular theme over several weeks.
Our programmes have included:
Ballet music, the Concerto, the development of music in relation to musical instruments, Church /
choral music, film music .
The composers; Beethoven, Brahms, the Schumanns and Mendelssohns, the Bach Family and
Schubert.
The music of France, Britain, Russia, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, Spainand Venice.
Our next programme begins in late September when we shall be discussing and listening to
music inspired by myths and legends. (Think Orpheus, King Arthur, Lorelei).
If this interests you, or for more information please contact Anna Maxey.
Anna Maxey
ITALIAN FOR HOLIDAYS GROUP
Some members of the Group have been meeting for 3 years now and the newer members have
fitted in well as they already had some knowledge.
We have been working on 'asking directions' and understanding the reply in recent weeks. Mary
Sharrocks has been finding us material to listen to so that we can get used to the language. As
a bit of fun we did also watch The Italian Lesson by Monty Python.
If anyone would like to join our group please contact Gill Allen.
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COMPUTER FORUM
WHAT IS IT; The Computer Forum has made a
fairly slow start. Our aim is to help people with
computer software problems. Please either come
to the monthly meeting at the Spalding Lifestyle
Centre at 10:00 on the fourth Wednesday of the
month or contact Richard Strudwick and we will
hopefully come up with an answer. If you come to
the meeting with a query we will try and answer it
at the meeting, if not we will carry out some
research so that we can provide an answer at the next meeting when we would be able to
discuss it with you. If you email a query we will answer it as soon as we can but we would also
like you to attend the next meeting so that we can discuss it with you. In this way we hope to be
able to provide a solution that you happy with.
A PLEA FOR MORE HELP; We also need more computer “experts” who can assist in
providing answers to queries raised. So if are willing to help please email me .
At present we are not proposing to do home visits and are probably unable to assist with
hardware problems, however if any members know about hardware and are willing to help we
may expand the group to cover this as well.
Richard Strudwick
READING GROUP
We meet monthly and read one book a month provided by the Reading
Groups section of the library. One of the Group leads the discussion on
the book and after tea will recommend another book to the Group.
Our most recent book is Murder in Steeple Martin by Lesley Cookman.
'Artist Libby Sarjeant's fresh start in a picturesque Kent village includes
an exciting new venture - the Oast House Theatre. She never expects it
to include a new romance in the form of Ben, but who's complaining?
She just isn't expecting ingredients three, four and five: mystery,
intrigue, and the shadow of old murder...' First in a new series - watch
out for more murder mysteries featuring middle aged actress come
investigator, Libby Sarjeant.
If anyone is interested in joining the Group please contact Vivienne Stapley.
21
GAMES AND GOSSIP GROUP
Games and Gossip has now moved to a new venue. We now meet at The Baytree Conference
Centre. Meetings are held every second Wednesday from 10.00 to 12.00 noon. There is no
charge, just the requirement that you purchase your drinks from the Café below. They even do
deliveries. The Baytree Conference Centre is situated immediately above The Café in The
Baytree Garden Centre. There is even a lift if needed.
We meet to play a variety of board, cards, cribbage etc. in fact any Game you like. Just bring
your own or join in with the other games being played. Please feel free to bring a friend. If you
prefer, you can simply sit and gossip with others. It is a very good meeting point for new
members to get to meet other members in an informal relaxed setting. New players are assured
of a warm welcome. Do, come and join us. Please feel free to contact me, should you require
further information or to advise should you wish to attend.
Phillip James - Group Leader
Please feel free to contact Phillip should you require directions etc.
DO YOU KNOW YOUR GROUP LEADERS?
Can you name this innocent child?
Answer in the next edition.
WHO WAS THIS FROM THE LAST EDITION OF THE NEWSLETTER?
The answer of course is
Mary Sharrocks
22
ARTICLES FOR SALE
Single inflatable Aerobed and pump in carry bag. Used once price £15
Please contact Pat Dunne
26 inch Panasonic flat screen television price £50
Please contact Christine Underwood
Roma Rollator (walker). Brand new condition, and includes an incorporated seat with a storage
box underneath - handy for shopping price £50 ono.
Please contact Jenny Scorthorne
FreeSat TV system suitable for caravan, summer house or similar. Includes class two dish
(whole of Europe), Aluminium tripod for above, Freesat tuner/decoder, All cables etc. and
Satellite finder
Note- does not include T. V. (can buy from supermarkets for about £100)
Price £75
Please contact: David Walters
Raleigh Pioneer gent's bicycle for sale. Price £40 ono.
To arrange to view.
FEEDBACK
Thank you for all your articles and news, without your input, this your newsletter, would not exist,
please keep them coming. It can be Group News, notices of what we can look forward to in the
next few months, ideas and anything else that may be of interest to your fellow members.
This is your newsletter, what do you want in it?
informative as possible to you.
We want it to be as relevant , interesting and
Please let us know your opinion of this one, it is the first one I have done.
Copy deadline for the Winter newsletter is 14th December 2015, please remember that to ensure
inclusion all your articles and news must be received in time.
Thank you
Richard Strudwick
23
FREE, 24-HOUR
LEGAL
ADVICE
FOR U3A MEMBERS
Contact:
Arc Legal Assistance
In Partnership with Irwin Mitchel Solicitors
Telephone number: 0344 770 1040
Quote: U3A Legal Helpline
Thank you!! To everybody who has brought some stamps to the meetings this year.
Please remember to save the stamps from your Christmas post.
Just tear or cut the portion of envelope they are on, taking care not to
damage the stamp, leaving about half a centimetre around them.
Each and every one is appreciated and helps to support the breeding
and training of these dogs
Joan Gibbs
24