WESTON- SUPER-MARE NEWSLETTER Summer 2008 Issue 37 Please note that to safeguard the individuals concerned most e-mail addresses and telephone numbers have been removed from this on-line edition.  All enquiries can be e-mailed to webmaster@u3aweston.org.uk

NEW GROUPS NEW TRIPS GROUPS NEW TRIPS         INSIDE YOUR SUMMER ISSUE   Committee changes   More day trips   Photo gallery   Classified ads   Forthcoming lectures   Full activities guide   Overseas holidays   Plant quiz   Group reports   Online courses   Theatre trips   And lots more

Your Committee

 

Chairman                      Jack Donkin                                         

 

Vice Chairman              Pat Hase                                             

 

Business Secretary        Martha Perriam                                                                        

 

Treasurer                      Gordon Hobbs                                      

                                   

Membership Sec.          Marjorie Elliott                                                                         

Programme Sec.           Pam Murphy                                        

Social a/c Treasurer &

Welfare Messages        Hilary Chesters                                      

                                   

Public Relations Alan Walters                                        

                                   

Cashier                         Pauline King                                        

                                    Shirley James                                       

Co-opted                       Roy Comer                                          

 

Dates for Your Diary

 

 

Fri 25 July         July Lecture Buildings Archaeology

 

Mon 1 Sept       Day trip to Bristol

 

Thu 4 Sept      Information/enrolment afternoon, St Paul’s Church Hall, 2-5pm

 

Fri 5 Sept          Courthouse Visit 10.30-12.30

 

Fri 12 Sept        September Lecture My Brother the Admiral

 

Tue 16 Sept      First Aid talk, Friends Meeting House, 2-4pm

 

Fri 10 Oct         October Lecture Living on a Dangerous Planet

 

Tue 21 Oct      Copy deadline for next newsletter

 

Thu 6 Nov        Day trip to Westonbirt

 

Wed 12 Nov     Day trip to Bletchley Park

 

Fri 14 Nov        November Lecture Children of the Nineties

 

Sat 29 Nov        Theatre trip Blood Brothers

 

Fri 12 Dec        December Lecture The Science of Happiness

 

Tue 16 Dec       Carol Service, St John’s Church

 

2009

 

Wed 14 Jan       New Year Lunch, Commodore Hotel, 12 for 12.30

 

Wed 11 Feb      Day trip to Painswick Rococo Gardens

 

 

 

    Editorial

We used to think Summer was a quiet period for U3A activities. But not any more, judging from the record number of group reports, classified ads, and outings in this issue. It was a real squeeze to get everything in. I’m only sorry that we haven’t room for more of your photographs. We still have technical constraints in this area I’m afraid. However, well done to all of you who responded so well to my plea for more material (and a reminder that we cannot accept anonymous contributions). Happy holidays!

PW

 

Coffee Mornings

The last coffee morning before Christmas will be December 9^th. The first one in the New Year will be January 6^th.

 

Remember your card!

When attending groups, try to make sure you have your valid U3A membership card ( a green one) with you.

 

Welfare

Do you know any member of U3A who is unwell and would love to receive a ‘Get Well Soon’ card? Or any member who has had a bereavement and would be comforted to know that we care? Please contact me and I will send them a card to let them know that we are thinking of them.

Hilary Chesters

 

Chairman’s Notes

I feel greatly honoured that your committee has elected me as Chairman for a second term of office. As on my previous occasion my Vice Chairman is Pat Hase. We are a couple of old hands in Weston U3A and I can’t help thinking that perhaps we should be seeing younger members making themselves available for responsible positions on the Committee. We have had an influx of new members over the past few years and they are doing sterling work.

            The success of our organisation depends largely on the hard work and enthusiasm of our group leaders and I am grateful to them. Some groups have finished, but others are taking their place. Please come along to our Information Afternoon at St Paul’s Church Hall on September 4^th to see what is now available.

            I wish all our members well and trust that you find at least one subject to stimulate your life.

Jack Donkin

 

 

Weston U3A visit to

North Somerset Courthouse

Friday September 5^th, 10.30 - 12.30

Tour the new building, see a presentation about magistrates’ court work, discuss sentencing options.  Max 25 participants.  The visit is free but there will be a £5 deposit to secure a place, returnable on the day.

Before August 20^th send a stamped addressed envelope marked “Courthouse Visit” to M.Perriam, 3 Glebe House, 80 Upper Church Rd., WsM, BS23 2AE, together with a cheque for £5 made out to Weston U3A Social Account.  Tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

 

Overseas Holidays

 

NORTHERN SPAIN, 24^th – 30^th September 2008

The 40 places allocated for this holiday were all taken up two weeks before the closing date for applications.  However, the coach operator has made a larger coach available to us and we are now able to take a few more bookings subject to the availability of ferry berths.

So if you missed out first time around, get your request in now by letting me know as soon as possible (contact details below). The final final date for booking is end of July (provided there are places still available).

Please note the revised date, we leave and return one day earlier than originally announced.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS, December 2008

This proposal has met with a mixed reception so before we plan the details we need to know if there is sufficient demand.  There are a number of options we can consider – one centre, a tour, several markets, etc.  The cost for three nights will be about £250 including all transport.  Please register your interest (no commitment) with me before the end of July.

CHINA, March 2009 (9 days)

This tour will be a perfect introduction to a stunning country.  All excursions are included and we shall visit the cities of Shanghai, Xi’an and the Olympic city of Beijing.  Highlights include the colonial Bund in Shanghai, the Terracotta Army, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Ming Tombs, etc. The price of about £1,250 includes:

·         Transport to/from Heathrow

·         Return flights to Shanghai

·         All internal flights

·         Full board accommodation Transfers

·         The excursions as mentioned above

·         A tour manager throughout

Before getting involved in finite details we need to be sure that we are responding to your wishes so please register your interest with me (no commitment) before the end of November.  Without sufficient interest the tour cannot take place – we need about 30 people.                                                                                                                                                     

New tours being planned include:

SOUTHERN IRELAND, spring 2009

PYRENEES, WINE ROUTE and BANYOLES (Olympic village for Rowing), autumn 2009

 

Roy Comer

Mailbox

Dear Editor

     Writing in the Spring Newsletter about the U3A as a self-help organisation, the Chairman commented ‘Quite a mission!’ Do U3A members tend to take our group leaders for granted?

     In addition to giving their time and expertise, they often give us a room in their home – plus the facilities. (Just think of all those pairs of shoes trampling on the carpet!)

     Hilary Semmens has recently retired as Group Leader of the Writing for Pleasure Group after many years of service. Thank you Hilary for all the help and for the friendly atmosphere you created.

                                     Madge Haynes

Words and Wit  

On 16th May we were treated to another Words and Wit Speaking Contest held in the lovely old Mayor's Parlour in Weston Town Hall and a most enjoyable time it was. We listened to amusing poems and limericks from Stan Radcliffe - delivered in his usual witty manner -  followed by a personal assessment of the Art Appreciation Group by Bernard Openshaw which gave a real insight into the subject. Eight Speakers told us who their heroes were and the judges chose five to talk further about their ideal holiday. All the subjects were fascinating and the three worthy winners were then presented with quite impressive awards. Three members of the book club read extracts from three different books ( spanning 100 years in time ) on a theme of  ' the visit '.  These certainly illustrated changing times! Keith Anderson gave a great rendering of  ' Brahn Boots '  and William Paton delighted us with his harmonica playing throughout the afternoon. Looking forward to next years’ Words and Wit a limerick came to mind:

 

One fine spring day

In the month of May

Was Words and Wit

Oh what a hit !

Long may it stay.

Shirley James

CLASSIFIED ADS

(E-mail webmaster@u3aweston.org.uk for contacts)

 

 

FOR SALE ‘Somerset Life’ magazines 1978-2007 (228 in total, some issues missing) £15. Contact Margaret

 

WANTED Small single wardrobe..

 

WANTED Does anyone know of someone to do some house cleaning?  Contact Jean Stephens

 

 

 

 

                                          

 

                                   

 

Westpoint Ice Show

Following the success of this year’s show, we are again hoping to organise another visit next February. Unfortunately the only information available at the time of going to print are the dates, which are February 17^th to 22^nd 2009. Ticket booking facilities will be open in September, when approximate prices will be available. In the meantime we will be making a provisional list of people who wish to go. To that end we will be available on Tuesday coffee mornings. We had a reserve list last time so early booking would be advisable.

Theresa and Ken Hale

Theatre Trip – Blood Brothers

A Theatre trip has been organised to see Willy Russell's "Blood Brothers" at the Bristol Hippodrome on 29th November 2008 at 4.00pm.  Cost of tickets is £23.50 each. No coach. X1 bus to Bristol using free bus pass, if possible.
*    Return the tear off slip below to Pat Ashford, 52 Uphill Road South,

      W-s-M, BS23 4SX before September 23.
*    Enclose your cheque for £23.50 made out to Weston U3A Social Account,
*    Enclose a s.a.e.

…………………………………………………………………………………
Weston U3a Theatre Visit to see a Matinee of Blood Brothers at Bristol Hippodrome on Saturday, 29th November at 4.00pm

I should like to apply for ............ tickets.
Name(s) in capital letters ..................................
Telephone...........
I enclose my cheque for ..... made payable to Weston U3A Social Account.
I enclose a s.a.e..
Signed...................................... Dated ............. ................................

 

 

PLANTED CLUES

(another of Stan Radcliffe’s fiendish quizzes)

 

1. A particularly smart king of beasts	11. These cattle are in a great hurry
2. A corvid’s curse?	12. Probably every girl’s ambition
3. Place where cards are played?	13. You wouldn’t eat this harvest
4. Advice sometimes suggested    to a doctor	14. Used to greet the fast-running bunny?
5. Photograph a ferocious beast	15. The estate agent’s favourite plant
6. Helps a young horse to stand his ground	16. You may only do this on the motorway
7. Sounds like a very frosty day	17. A winter weather occurrence
8. Would it prompt a bird to soar?	18. Useful above a bright lamp
9. Would a vixen wear this?	19. Cheeky remarks by a bovine beast
10. Do you obtain this with Optrex?	20. American greeting for Cynthia?

 

(Answers at back)

 

 

 

 

Lecture Report

 

JUNE 2008 Dry Stone Walls

The June lecture was given by Chris Stephens on the subject of dry stone walling, an unusual topic but one which proved most interesting. He described the need for dry stone walls, the economic efficiency as opposed to wire fences despite high labour costs, and the wide range of styles including local variations. He was most informative, entertaining and above all full of enthusiasm for the subject. It had provided him with relaxation from his normal life as a professor of dentistry. Thank you Chris for an afternoon of great entertainment from an unexpected subject. Who would like to start a U3A group?

Brian Pike

 

 

U3A Online Courses

Did you know that TUTORED online courses are available from the U3A?

Go to www.u3a.org.uk and click on ‘online courses’ to apply.

 

New Year Lunch 2009 

At the Commodore Hotel, Sand Bay, on Wednesday January 14^th. 

12.00 noon for 12.30pm.            The cost this year will be £16.00. 

Cheques made payable to the “Weston U3A Social Account”.  Tickets will be on sale at the Tuesday Coffee Mornings from early in November when the Menu will be available.

Pat Hase

 

Weston U3A Snowdrop visit to Painswick Rococo Gardens

Wednesday 11^th February 2009

 

This is to give you advance notice of a trip to see millions of snowdrops in the famous Gloucestershire eighteenth century gardens at Painswick.

The cost will be £11.50 per person, to include travel and entry to the gardens.

The coach will leave Locking Road Coach Park at 10.00 am and return to Weston at approx 16.30.  Alternative pick up points at Farm Foods, BP Garage and Homebase only.

Refreshments not included but light lunches will be available at the Coach House Restaurant  

Please

·         Return the tear off slip below to BRENDA MORONEY, 45 Worlebury Park Road, W-s-M, BS22 9SA (tel: 620371) before 11^th January 2009.

·         Enclose your cheque for £11.50 made out to Weston U3A Social Account

·          Enclose a stamped addressed envelope.

After 11^th January you will either be sent your ticket(s) or, if there are not enough members interested, your cheque back.

Applications will be dealt with in the date order of receipt.

Refunds after 11^th January will only be possible if your place can be taken by someone else from the waiting list.

…………………………………………………………………………………

 

Weston U3A Day Trip  to Painswick Rococo Gardens

 

I should like to apply for …. tickets.

Name(s) in capital letters …………………………………………………………………

Telephone ……………………….

I enclose my cheque for …………. made out to Weston U3A Social Account

I enclose a s.a.e.

I should like to be picked up and dropped off at ………………………………..

I/we are paid up members of the U3A

I/we are guests and understand that as such I/we may only take one trip pa with the U3A

Signed …………………….. Dated …………………

THE WESTON U3A LECTURES

July – Dec 2008 at St. Paul’s Church Hall, Walliscote Road, WSM. Members and GUESTS £1.00 including refreshments. USUALLY On second Fridays of the month, at 2.15 pm

                                   

July 25^th                      Dr Susan Shaw: “Buildings Archaeology - the Stories Houses Can Tell”.  Dr Shaw is from the Somerset Vernacular Buildings Group and will talk about the work they have carried out in local villages.

                                    Chair: Martha Perriam

 

Sept 12^th                     David Sebborn: “My brother the Admiral: the story of Robert Blake, Cromwell’s General of the Sea”.  David is Education Officer for the Blake Museum, Bridgwater.

                                    Chair: Brian Pike.    

 

Oct 10^th                       “Living on a Dangerous Planet”.  By popular request Elizabeth Devon the earth scientist from Keele and Bath Spa Universities is returning to talk to us.

                                    Chair: Tony Cochrane

 

Nov 14^th                      “Children of the Nineties”.  It is nearly 5 years ago that Prof. Jean Golding spoke to us about this longitudinal study of children born in Avon in 1990, examining basically the influence of nature v nurture. 

                                    Chair: Lindsey Ireland

 

Dec 12^th                      “The Science of Happiness” by Dr Chris Johnstone of Bristol University.

                                    Chair: Jack Donkin

         

 

Weston U3A visit to Westonbirt Arboretum

Thursday November 6^th 2008

 

This will be your chance to see the glorious colours of autumn at their best at Westonbirt this year. The cost will be £10.50 per person, to include travel and entry.The coach will leave Locking Road Coach Park at 11.00 am and return to Weston at approx 16.45.  Alternative pick up and drop points at Farm Foods, BP Garage and Homebase only.Refreshments not included but there is a restaurant for hot or cold meals and another out-of-doors where you can picnic if you prefer.

Please

·         Return the tear off slip below to MARTHA PERRIAM, 3 Glebe House, 80 Upper Church Road, WsM, BS23 2AE before October 6^th.

·         Enclose your cheque for £10.50 per person made out to Weston U3A Social Account

·          Enclose a stamped addressed envelope.

After October 6^th you will either be sent your ticket(s) or, if there are not enough members interested, your cheque back.

Applications will be dealt with in the date order of receipt.

Refunds after October 6^th will only be possible if your place can be taken by someone else from the waiting list.

…………………………………………………………………………………

Weston U3A Day Trip  to Westonbirt, Nov 6^th

 

I should like to apply for …. tickets.

Name(s) in capital letters …………………………………………………………………

Wheelchair or buggy required (only available if booked early enough) ………………….

Telephone ……………………….

I enclose my cheque for …………. made out to Weston U3A Social Account

I enclose a s.a.e.

I should like to be picked up and dropped off at ………………………………..

I/we are paid up members of the U3A

I/we are guests and understand that as such I/we may only take one trip p.a. with the U3A

Signed …………………….. Dated …………………

Winners







Acton and Colthay







Book Group







Stocks - Stoke St. Gregory

GROUP NEWS

NEW GROUP – Amazing Lives

Did you know that King Juan Carlos shot and killed his younger brother, the family favourite, in a dreadful accident? The King’s life will be part of our new series of amazing lives. You probably do know that Mrs Ian Fleming was the dearest friend of Clarissa Eden, the PM’s wife, and at the same time the lover of Hugh Gaitskell, the leader of the Labour opposition. They all came to Goldeneye, Mr Ian Fleming’s hideaway in Jamaica. His trade, of course, was treachery – another amazing life. This new group will meet monthly on Mondays. There will be a talk, questions and answers, a discussion and conclusion. The first of our amazing lives will be that of Nelson Mandela.

If you are interested please contact Antje.

Archaeology

Would anyone interested in joining the recently formed Archaeology Group please contact Kevin Morris.

Art Group 2

Starting Tuesday September 30^th and going through until Christmas. Every Tuesday between 2 and 4pm. More information from Elizabeth Ward.

Boules

Held on Monday evenings in Clarence Park Bowling Club ground at 6pm for about two hours. We have a good laugh and enjoy ourselves. The cost is £1.25 each. For more information please contact Peter Willan. Please note this is outside, so if wet we don’t play. Also the season is short and we shall be finishing in mid-September.

NEW GROUP – Card Making

This popular and friendly group meets fortnightly to learn techniques for making handmade greetings cards. All abilities welcome. More information from Ruth Fletcher..

Come Singing For Pleasure

Tuesday Afternoons  2.15pm - 4.00pm at  St John's church

The Singing group is now in its 15th year and it continues to flourish.  About 40 members sing regularly each week. We don't perform publicly but we do sing carols at the U 3 A  Christmas Carol Service.  Our recent Summer entertainment illustrates the wide range of songs we sing, some in unison and others in parts.  If you like a good sing with a bit of a challenge then why not join us.  We have room for ladies with lower voices(alto) and for men (higher and lower or anywhere in between!  We meet again on September 9th and for those who like to plan ahead, the U3A Christmas Carol Service will be on December 16th at St John's Church                   Kathie Savage 

.

Absolute Beginners Computer Group

The membership of this necessarily small but enthusiastic group changes constantly as members come, find out what they came to find out, and then depart. I am glad to say they have all been satisfied customers, and the main reason for this it appears is that unlike the standard courses, which have of necessity to move on from phase to phase to complete the course in a specific period, Absolute Beginners can stop to dwell much longer on any problem or anything a member does not immediately grasp.

The group as at present is virtually a new one, with some members finishing what they came to find and going off to IT and other courses, or whatever they are headed for, and other new ones coming on. I am very pleased that they all found their sessions at Absolute Beginners helpful, which I feel justifies the Group’s existence, and that is the main thing. It can often be a bit of a slog for those coming into computers for the first time, because sometimes they find that what they were told last year is now out of date, but like the bicycle, still around after 120 or more years, the basics still apply!

There is, as I have said before, no Members’ List and Waiting List as such, because the turnover of members is often quite swift, some coming to find out everything there is available, and others just wanting to find out one or two things, so I say to all enquirers, come to 3, Heron Close on the meeting days and find out what we’re all about. It’s all about that there Eclecticism, I suppose.                        Maurice Broom, The Man with the Black Bag

Computers

Recently we have had to say farewell to some of our members and we are now in a position to welcome ‘new’ faces. Recently some members of the group have been able to bring in their own computer (laptop) to connect to the projector which enables us to see certain subjects from a different aspect and illustrates the fact that no two computers, or computer operators, work the same way.

Jack Luxon

Computer Classes (IT for the U3A)

The interest in this course continues. The third 12-week course will start

10 am to 12 noon on Tuesday 25 November 2008 at the UK-Online Weston College premises in the Boulevard. Already the November course is 50% subscribed and previous attendees are asking to come back to do it again. Each course is limited to eleven members as there are only 8 computer terminals in the classroom. There is some doubling up but not everyone can attend every week. The course covers Computer Desktop Management, File and Data Management, Internet, E-Mail, Word Processing, and Excel Spreadsheets. There is no entry level for the course and we have taken people who have never touched a computer to those who use one regularly.  All we ask is that the more experienced members are patient with their fellow students who are not so familiar with computers. If we ever do exhaust the number of members who have no knowledge of computers then we will consider doing a more advanced course.There is also the opportunity to enrol on the College computer courses, some of which are still free. There are vacancies still for the November 2008 course but we suggest that you do not wait for the general enrolment day in September.            Graham Rain  

 

Discussion and Debating Club

Our Discussion/Debating season began on 13^th September 2007 with a debate Britain Needs Its Nuclear Weapons, and ended on 1^st May discussing Can Public Transport Ever Replace The Car? And with petrol prices going up we may soon find out. In this last season we met weekly, instead of our previous fortnightly routine, and it proved popular mainly because the regularity is ‘predictable’. I hope to continue with our Words & Wit event* with the intention of making it a showcase for other groups to display their interests and talent.

*The 2008 Speaking Competition results were as follows: 1^st Mike Barclay, 2^nd Bill Hudson,  3^rd Margaret Sherring. See photo on centrefold.

 

Stop Press

The Palmistry Group has metamorphosed into Occult Studies and will meet on the following Thursdays from 2-4pm: September 18^th, October 23^rd and November 20^th.

Keith Anderson

Drama/Concert Party Group

Is anybody interested in reviving our very successful drama and concert party group? If so, please contact Alan Waters.

 

Family History – 1^st & 3^rd Fridays of each month

The Family History Group held an Open Afternoon at the end of June.  Thanks are due to all those who exhibited their research and to those other U3A members who joined us for the afternoon.  I was very impressed by the amount of work on display and the care which had been taken into producing the displays. Thank you all so much for taking part.

The theme this year was “Occupations of our Ancestors” and these ranged from lace making, through pearl button manufacture, straw plaiting, examples from a porcelain painter for Royal Worcester, a display of chocolate making (with samples!), examples of wood turning and a display of old tools amongst many others.  There were also exhibits of the research recently undertaken by a small local history research group who have been investigating Pubs in Weston.

We all share an enthusiasm for the subject and the fortnightly topics during the year also usually produce an interesting display of items concerned with our research. Some of our members are beginners but others are very experienced and are prepared to share their expertise.  We are taking a rest during the summer but will meet again at 2.15pm on Friday 5^th September at St Paul’s Church Hall.  If you’ve an ambition to trace your ancestry, or have started and are stuck - have a word with me at the Information Afternoon at St Paul’s on Thursday, Sept 4^th by which time the programme for 2008/9 will be available.                                                                                               Pat Hase

                                              

Local History – 4^th Friday Of Each Month

This year we had 6 speakers from outside the U3A covering, the Chew Valley Lake, Somerset Houses, The Somerset & Dorset Railway, Somerset Canals, Somerset Memories and Radio in War-time, with Mike Wilkinson, Martha Perriam and myself from within the group looking at Weston on Film, Hans Price the Architect and Education in Weston.

When you attend the Information Afternoon on Thursday, Sept 4^th I hope to have the complete programme available for the Local History Group.  The new session will start on Friday September 26^th 2.15pm at St Paul’s when the small research group which has been looking at Public Houses in Weston will be presenting some of their findings.  This will be coupled with a short look at the flooding of Uphill.  I have yet to plan the rest of next year’s programme and would be very pleased to hear from anyone who would like to contribute or can recommend anyone who has a local topic. 

Following the general interest engendered by the talk on Education I would be particularly interested if anyone would like to research the history of any one school.  I wonder if there is sufficient interest to form a small sub-group of the local history group, which would like to undertake some active research.   Apart from the schools, other possible topics might be Churches, Cinemas & Theatres, Hospitals, Transport in Weston, Wartime in Weston etc.    There has also been a suggestion that we might combine with members of Woodspring U3A to look at issues pertaining to Tyntesfield.  Please will you contact me if you would like to take part in any of these projects. Pat Hase                                                        

Flower Arranging

The summer term began using ideas I had gained from my holiday in Thailand. We made a garland similar to those laid on the street shrines and then folded napkins in the shape of a lotus and a strelitzia flower ( also called ‘bird of paradise’).

We then revisited all the designs that are the basis of traditional flower arrangements: circular, oval, line, symmetrical and non-symmetrical triangles and an L-shape. We tried our hand at more modern designs such as parallel and horizontal and then ventured to make an Ikebana or minimal design. The latter are hard to do though they use very little foliage and few flowers, but need careful choice of container and accessories such as pebbles and slate.

Careful choice of container was needed to arrange a miniature, 4”x4”x4”, and a petite, 9”x9”x9”, so that the container did not dominate the design. An arrangement in a basket was easier – the range of basket shapes was amazing and added to the variety of the finished products.

The last two weeks of term give quite a challenge. One week is an Imposed class – I bring the same container, foliage and flowers for everyone and they think on their feet to make an arrangement! On the last week everyone will interpret the theme ‘Carnival’. Before that we will have our visit to the warehouse in Bristol to buy all those floral accessories we didn’t know we needed, followed by a welcome break at the Riverside Garden Centre.

If you’ve never tried flower arranging why not give it a try? It’s very creative and quite relaxing. Men are welcome –don’t laugh – many of the top flower arrangers are men!

Lindsay Ireland

History Group A

Following Arthur and Jack’s very successful journey through Simon Shama’s A History of Britain the group will be reforming in September with a slighly different focus. Over the coming year(s) the group will be based on Andrew Marr’s very well received A History of Modern Britain, which takes the story of our country from the end of WWII up to the present time. Although we may feel we already know what happened, having lived through it, our knowledge is influenced by what we have been told and what we remember. Andrew Marr is not a historian but is able to bring a journalist’s eye to events and in his own idiosyncratic way. We may not agree with all he says but he has a way of describing events with new insights. Mike has again agreed to help illustrate the sessions with extracts from his extensive video library. We hope that the sessions will be entertaining, enlightening and educating and look forward to you joining us. See you at the information afternoon on 4th September. The new session will start on 14th September at 10.30 am, venue to be confirmed.                                                Robert Mair  (Group Convenor)

 

History A – a fond farewell

During the last nine years (Yes, nine, now I come to look back at old diaries) we have travelled twice along the long path of British History. The first route followed Christopher Lee’s Sceptred Isle course, conventional and comprehensive, and ideally presented for such a group as ours in 15-minute ’slots,’ beautifully read by Anna Massey. The second route was Simon Schama’s (who describes our first route as a heritage entertainment for senior citizens, like country-house tours and costume dramas, a gently narcotic dose of nostalgia, harmless enough if not consumed while driving or operating heavy machinery); Schama’s route was by no means comprehensive, but did lead us along a great many interesting and exciting diversions not covered in conventional political histories. Jack and I, who have been jointly responsible for the class throughout those nine years, both feel the time has come for a break. I must express my enormous gratitude to Jack  and to Mike Wilkinson for their support over the whole period. We also express our gratitude to the staff of the Museum, which was a convenient, comfortable and welcoming place to meet. Finally, thanks to the class themselves, a loyal and enthusiastic group - we rarely had fewer than 18 in attendance - with whom it was always a pleasure to work. Hopefully, the group will continue to meet under different leadership.            

A.H.G.S.

18^th century History

I have decided to disband this group as I have had difficulty in maintaining a quorum. I would like to thank all those who have supported me over the last several years. For anyone interested in continuing, I will be supporting Robert Mair in his work with History A on a Friday morning in succession to Arthur Spencer, who held the fort for many years and is now taking a well-deserved retirement. Thank you Arthur.                                                            Brian Pike

 

Philosophy

Our excursions into Western philosophical thinking through the ages began last September with the first known stirrings of Ancient Greek minds towards a deeper knowledge of the world.  As our guide we read through  An Introduction to Ancient Greek Philosophy by Julia Annas, an interesting and enlightening book, but packed with so many ideas that we felt we would benefit from a re-reading.

We started by looking at speculations from people with names like Thales, Anaxamander, Empedocles, Zeno, and others , all of whom were dissatisfied with being told that everything was made by the gods, and wanted to use their reason to find out what the world is made of,  and came up with some strange answers, such as  air, water, ‘the boundless’, some of them strangely modern,  and  these are the ideas from which grew what we now know as science.   They also wanted to find out how the universe works, and why people behave as they do.   We ended with Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, for whom how to live well became the most important question.

Owing to family circumstances I missed the last class, when we would have decided upon the next topic for study, so our opening class in September will have that discussion, and, because argument (ie statements backed up with reasons) is essential to philosophy, we shall also spend time finding out what makes some arguments good and some bad, and how to produce good ones of our own. The starting date is Wednesday, 24 September, the time 10am until 12 noon (with a coffee break), and the venue the Friends’ Meeting House.  There’s a welcome place in the group for anyone who would like a bit of mind stretching every other Wednesday.

Hazel Uren

Poetry Group

I have been running the Poetry Group for some time now, but, recently, my eyesight has deteriorated.  Knowing that this will not improve, I have decided to relinquish the leadership of the group.    It has all been a rich, entertaining and happy experience and I am pleased to be able to say that David Foster, who joined us a couple of years ago when he moved to Weston, has kindly agreed to take on leadership as from September.   Investigations are going on to establish the venue and details of this will be given, as soon as it is known, at the Tuesday coffee morning.   On a personal note, I would like to say thank you very much to all the members of the group for their loyalty, enthusiasm, skill in coming up with such a huge variety of poems.               Doreen Phipps

 

Natural History Group

Natural history groups tend to be either campaigners or observers.   Ours comes within the latter category.   Both are necessary but their objectives are not always the same.   If we were all passive observers many of our most cherished habitats would inevitably disappear.   However, we can often provide the necessary evidence to win the case for preservation against (usually) commercial interests.   Where large housing developments are concerned there will be a permanent loss of habitat since the value of land and the need to provide dwellings is such that only a minimal area can be allowed for gardens.   Any larger green areas will tend to be dedicated to sport and recreation that are of little value for wildlife. Not all conservation issues are quite as clear-cut.   The proposed barrage across the Severn estuary has been in the news again recently.   Prominent organizations such as the RSPB and those interested in the protection of marine life are concerned about the consequential destruction of particular habitats.   In this case, however, new habitats will also be created.   These will provide a rare opportunity to observe the adaptation of the existing species and colonization by new populations and species.   When the arguments are put forward it will be easier highlight the losses since here we are dealing with what is known, whereas the opportunities are speculative and, by their nature, unquantifiable.   For the botanist and the entomologist the greater concern will be for the environmental effects of the land access particularly during the lengthy development period of construction.

Our group meets on the second Thursday of each month at various venues and anyone is welcome to join us.                                 Dennis Darling

Quilting

The quilting group (quilting for beginers) is now in its 8th year. We have completed variousl group projects and many individual ones. Some of the original members are still with the group, so you can guess we have progressed over time. We learn new processes and share many, manyideas within the range of patchwork and quilting, also lots of other ideas.

The group is very sociable and we redcently welcomed a quilter, Maxine, from Australia who joined us for five months during her stay. This was very inspiring and we all exchange lots of ideas. We have just completed a king size quilt. The fabrics are mostly recycled or donations. We plan to give this to the RLNI at Winscombe for them to raffle for their funds. It is hoped that we will be able to send photos etc to the U3A Magazine and our own, of course. On a personal level I have greatly appreciated the friendship and support of the group and have learnt as much from them and I have passed on. We are wishing our dining room table could expand to take more members but twelve is really a tight squeeze!!"                                                          Veronica Taplin

 

Science and Technology

For the 2008/2009 session we will be looking at, and discussing, two main topics. Firstly, Renewable Energies, particularly power from water and wind, with a look at current proposals for the Severn Barrage and comparing them with those put forward in the 1920s – and the ongoing construction of the largest wind farm in the UK on the East Anglian coast. Secondly, the other topic is Geography, taking a look at Natural Wonders of the World and a visit to Alaska. The first meeting of the group is on October 13^th at 2pm at the Friends Meeting House. The subject will be The Severn Barrage Schemes, an illustrated talk. On November 10^th the subject is Alaska, a video presentation. December 8^th will be Two Scottish Hydro-Electric Power Stations, using video material. The New Year starts on January 12^th with Great Wonders of the World – Wonders of Nature, another video presentation. On February 9^th The Gunfleet Array looks at the current progress of the UK’s largest wind farm.

The last meeting of the session is on March 9^th and features the video Secrets of the Ocean Deeps – Nature’s Incredible Designs.

            All meetings of the group are on Mondays on the dates shown, commencing at 2pm at the Friends Meeting House. All U3A members are most welcome. Full programme details are displayed on the notice board at coffee mornings.

Mike Wilkinson

Short Tennis

At the United Reform Church on Thursday mornings, 10 – 12. We have a good time playing and there are a few vacancies. Please contact Peter Willan or Karen Owen

Singalong

Every Friday afternoon (from September 5th) at 2pm in the United Reform Church Hall. No voice needed, just the urge to sing. Over 300 well-known songs where you know the songs and we give you the words. We have been happy to welcome new members to our friendly group in recent months. If you feel like singing (not just in the bath) please come along. Song books provided. We are especially hoping for anyone who plays the piano to help our regular pianists when they are unable to attend. We will be starting up again on September 5^th.  Hope to see you there. Beryl Smith

Theatre Visits:

In May a full coach load of U3A members visited Stratford for the day.  40 of us had tickets to see Wm Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice".  13 spent
the day fruitfully in Stratford.  Despite a rather damning report in the Telegraph of this production we all enjoyed the performance and day.        PA

”Walking” by Chris Mingo-West

Tall thin walkers, short and stout,

Every week the boots come out,

Trail along a ridge top track

Plenty of mud?... then the leader’s Jack!

 

The weather’s been mostly fine and dry

But one foggy day we heard the cry –

“Head t’ward the tower on the hill”

But we couldn’t see each other when we all stood still!

 

Steam trains, reservoirs, Quantocks, lakes,

Wild flowers and nature, elevenses cakes,

Views to North, South, East and West…..

We’re lost!  - get out the GPS

 

Good fresh air and friendly banter,

We spot the pub and break into a canter,

Check out the puds before the main meal

This walking lark certainly has its appeal!

 

We’d like new walkers – could that be you?

Come and find out what we do

One week a long walk, the next week shorter

Enjoy a day out with the U3A walkers.

Walking with Dogs

Recently there have been reports in the national press of incidents where people walking their dogs on grazing land have been attacked by cattle or horses and, in some cases, very seriously injured. It appears that even if the dog is well behaved and on a lead the animals at times see it as a threat and react in what they consider an appropriate manner.

In view of this, in common with other walking clubs, the leaders of both of the walking groups have reluctantly agreed that having dogs accompany walking groups is no longer desirable. It is true that the U3A nationally are aware that having a dog on a walk does not jeopardise insurance cover, but this insurance is to cover against any liability of problems caused by a U3A member. It does not cover any damage occurring to a U3A member caused by irate animals. Although most members are insured, we are sure that few of us would wish to have to make a claim from a hospital bed.

 

Green Walks

The number participating on our spring/ summer walks has varied, with good attendances for Hutton Woods, Bleadon Hill and Christon. I expect mainly because these are all close to Weston. The current programme only has one walk requiring a long drive,but by special request this autumn we will revisit the Berkley/ Sharpness canal at Purton, which is delightful.I am aware of the petrol costs, but believe we need to occasionally offer new areas, widen our repertoire.The current programmes for both walking groups can be downloaded from our website.                                                         Ian Gamlin

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Wine Appreciation

We are a group of about 10 people, who meet once a month on a Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m. At the moment we are meeting at Rosemary Thomas' house in Worle. At each meeting we do blind tastings on 4 wines - either from one country, or one grape variety from different areas. All that is needed is 4 wine glasses each for the tastings (and swallowings - no spitting out!) plus a pen to write our individual comments (paper provided). Each member provides the 4 wines once or twice a year , and is reimbursed. The cost of the wine and crackers is shared between the members at the meeting, and usually works out between £2 and £3 each. The 4 bottles and remaining contents are then taken home by 4 different members each month.We have space for another one or two people at the moment, so please contact the Group Leader, Rosemary Thomas if you would like to join our "merry" band. Our next meeting is on July 24th.

 

NEW GROUP -- Women's Group

Calling all women.  If you are interested in sharing your thoughts, feelings and

ideas about being a woman with other like minded women in a small group -Then  please contact Corinne Brown. Time, day and venue to be agreed if we have enough women to begin the group.

 

NEW GROUP -- World War I

An Autumn programme of about six talks (with audience participation) for anyone interested in the war on the Western Front. It will aim to be of interest to anyone wanting to know more of the why and how, or with a relative who fought there. Or perhaps you are thinking of visiting the battlefields and cemeteries in France and Belgium and want to know how to get there and what to see. Or maybe you would like to read some of the many public and private records of the war; It will not be a tactical 'battle by battle' account of the conflict. If you are interested and would like more information please contact Keith Bosworth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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