MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Subscriptions are now due for the year beginning March 2020. The amount to pay will be confirmed at the AGM on Tuesday 10th March and posted on our website on the following day. Membership forms, which show the various methods of payment can be downloaded from the membership page of our website. Alan Shean

NEW ADVENTURE GROUP Coordinator: Ken Patton Tel 556996

This month the adventurous eleven of us set out to the outskirts of Burton on (or under!) Trent, to visit the Hawksflight Falconry Centre, which was, fortunately, based adjacent to the Byrkley Park Garden Centre which was very handy for refreshments and warmth !!

NEWSLETTER

Issue No. 207 March 2020

Alan Shean The 3 hour experience was absolutely wonderful, and time, as well as the birds, flew by despite the inclement weather. We were introduced to over a dozen raptors and owls, and learnt about their different hunting styles and how they caught their prey in their natural environment. We also covered their diet and food preparation, weight control, training and telemetry, and even had the great pleasure to experience a first-hand detailed analysis of an owls poo and fur balls! However, the undoubted highlight of the day were the two flying sessions, where first of all the Barn Owl flew back and forth to all of us on to our gloved hands, before her finale of showing us how she eats a full size mouse whole ! After a short lunch break we ventured out to the HawkWalk where we were in awe of "Scout" the beautifully marked Harris Hawk, and his amazing exploits as he walked with us and showed off his skills flying delicately between us all, and on to our gloved hands to feast on his quail breast lunch !!

Who is the wisest!

Next event is scheduled for Wednesday April 22nd, not booked yet, but will have details for the next monthly Meeting. Ken

DATES TO LOOK FORWARD TO

As you know, we do not meet in the Wycliffe Rooms on the second Tuesdays in July and August. We have a day out trip in July and a picnic in August. We have been kindly invited by Liz and David White, once again, to hold our picnic in the garden of their home. More details will follow.

This year our day out trip on Tuesday July 14th is to Crich Tramway Museum. This is a fascinating place where we can see a large collection of trams, travel on some of them and visit the letterpress printing museum amongst many other interesting things. I am sure that it will be a very enjoyable day for us all. Please let me have your name if you would like to join us. The cost is £22 per head and the coach will leave from outside the Wycliffe Rooms at 9.30 am.

Linda

GARDENS GROUP OUTING The Gardens Group will have a trip to Gardeners' World Live at the NEC, which has been booked for Thursday June 18th. Linda

Volunteer required: Online Coordinator

After the AGM in March this year we will need a new online coordinator. If you have a basic knowledge of how a website works, could you take on this role? If you would like more details please ask Kate Ayres, the current online coordinator. Assistance, if required, will be readily available.

INTEREST GROUPS AND EVENT REPORTS

Always check online for possible timing variations. Check with the group leader if you are not sure. A number of groups have room for more members. If you wish to join any of them, please contact the Group Coordinator

GROUP COORDINATORS MEETING 2020

Each year the Group Co-ordinators meet to discuss their groups. At this year's meeting several of the leaders said that they had vacancies in their groups and I have decided to list them in case you want to join. If you do, please telephone the leaders who can put you in touch with other members of that group in case you do not want to turn up worried that you will not know anyone there. Of course anyone can join a Garden Group visit as long as there are still spaces on the coach. Anyone can join groups such as the History and Reading groups, which meet in halls and the only problems arise with groups that meet in members' homes where there may not be enough seats. Members can also join the various walks, New Age Kurling and Ten-Pin Bowling. Groups that do have spaces at present are: Songsters, where Bill is happy to welcome you to join the group in Bitteswell church, the Ukulele group, Music and Memories, group 2, the Jazz group, Play-Reading, Scrabble, Whist, Music Appreciation, Lively Discussion, Joint Golf. Anyone can go on Theatre visits or take part in New Adventures as long as they are fit to do the challenge. Singles are also very welcome to join in the Singles Takeaway Suppers, where members take it in turn to host the

group with a main course from a Takeaway restaurant and starters and desserts brought by others. Singles Dining has spaces. This group goes out for lunch once a month at a nice restaurant where they eat, laugh and discuss topical and nonsensical subjects. If you have an idea for a group that we do not offer or wish to join one of our other groups, you can contact the leader who could keep your name on a list until a space occurs or if there appears to be enough demand to start another group, contact me to see if we can start another. We want you to make the most of your membership. Linda

READING GROUP Co-ordinator: Linda Patton Tel: 556996

We discussed a classic 19th century novel this month, "Northanger Abbey" by Jane Austen and it was a very popular choice. In this book, there is little story but a great deal of character detail and we could imagine Jane Austen herself observing these characters when she lived in Bath and in the village of Chawton, near Alton in Hampshire. Her heroine, Catherine, a foolish young lady lets what she has read in the Gothic novels like "Udolpho" to shape her vision of life rather than the evidence of her own eyes. As the book progresses she learns the sad reality that her first impression of many of those she meets needs revision.

Our choice for April is "The Women's Room" by Marilyn French and for May it is "A Different Class" by Joanne Harris. Please join us if you enjoy reading a variety of books and discussing them over coffee and cake with a lively group.

Linda TOPICAL/CURRENT AFFAIRS GROUP Coordinator: Nigel McNeill - Tel: 641634 A really interesting exchange of points of view about HMG & the really difficult big decisions any Prime Minister has to take. And agreeing that inevitably there will always be a degree of disagreement with any decision arrived at/taken. The case we used to highlight this point being: “Coronavirus, was it right or wrong to bring our Citizens home from Wuhan?” Let alone the risks, & costs amongst many other implications. By the end of the discussion, whilst there were no arguments, it could be said that 11 people present had a degree of 11 different views, no doubt moderated after the discussion but still with no consensus at all!

We all though did agree on one point, all the costs however incurred, should be taken out of the Foreign Aid Budget. We did also agree that who’d be Prime Minister?! A big thank you again to Joy for being such a welcoming & splendid host. Next month’s meeting will be at Richard & Sandra’s. Nigel MUSIC AND MEMORIES 1 Co-ordinator Nohline Ruff Tel. 556985 The beauty of this group is that you have no idea when you arrive at the venue what music you will hear or what direction the conversation arising from it will take. Nine of us met at Gwenda’s on a dull Tuesday afternoon. The butler dealt with coats and drinks with practised ease and a welcoming smile. The Louis Lester Band kicked us off with a lively piece called, “Dancing on the moon.” The Beethoven track turned out to be Chuck Berry rolling him over, then Julio Iglesias’ silky rendition of “Mona Lisa” lead to a discussion of the merits of various artists voices singing the same song. A frantic search for supporting documents for a passport application had led to a surprise find of a long forgotten stash of freebie CDs. “Itchy Coo Park“ by the Small Faces was the choice made from them. Another surprise was Brian Ferry’s setting of Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18, a track from a Princess Diana tribute CD. Ella Fitzgerald, Joe Brown (his 50th Anniversary TourCD!) and Elkie Brookes provided easy listening and then Nat King Cole brought us to our refreshment break with “For all we know.” Fortified with drinks, cake and conversation the second part of the afternoon started with a technical hitch, the CD player didn’t like “Phantom of the Opera” so Louis Lester & “Dead of night express” was adroitly substituted. Beethoven’s second

appearance was an upbeat medley including “Ode to Joy” by the Royal Philharmonic who then also accompanied Rod Stewart’s “You’re in my heart.” Stacey Kent was a new name to most of us. Her lovely voice did justice to, “I wish I were in love again.” Another track from the Diana CD had Paul McCartney poignantly singing “Little Willow.” A blast from the 1950’s had us remembering The Platters & the beautiful “Smoke gets in your eyes.” Pointless & Alexander Armstrong were up for discussion next. His powerful voice singing “On days like these” showed a different facet to his TV persona. Barry White with “You’re my everything “lead us to a cryptic introduction to our last track of the afternoon inspired by a recent very modest lottery win- Abba, not with “Money, money, money.” but with “The winner takes it all!” A great afternoon in good company with excellent hospitality. Thank you Gwenda. Graham Ruff MUSIC AND MEMORIES 2 The second desert island with discs. Co-ordinator Nohline Ruff Tel. 556985 We were a small select group again due to illness & appointments. We started with Benny Hill and Ernie & 'the fastest milk cart in the west'. More fun followed with Gilbert & Sullivan's 'When I was a lad'. Kenny Ball played 'Midnight in Moscow' and a brass band gave a rendition of 'The Entertainer'. We were taken back in time with the 'Age of Aquarius' from Hair and Buddy Holly with 'Oh Boy'. More modern was Adele with 'Rolling in the Deep'. We thought of things to come with 'Summertime' by Louis Armstrong & Ella Fitzgerald. With Valentine’s Day coming up we heard Barbra Streisand & Michael Buble with 'It had to be you' and Frank Sinatra with 'My Funny Valentine'. A pleasant afternoon as usual, with good company. Thanks to Carole for hosting it. Derek Deacon ART APPRECIATION GROUP Co-ordinators: Rae Flowerday Tel. 556942 & Sue Woodhead Tel. 01455 558037

For our December meeting we turned our attention to architecture and used as our source material a programme by the art critic Waldemar Januszczak from his series ‘The Sculpture Diaries’. The branch of architecture examined has come to be known as ‘Land Art’ & involves the creation of art work both in the landscape and using the landscape for aesthetic impact. As a conceptual art movement it developed in the 1970s, with the most important work being ‘The Spiral Jetty’, an earthwork in The Great Salt Lake in the USA. The programme did, however, also look more widely at structures in the environment from Stonehenge & the Nasca Lines in Peru to the Inca city of Machu Pichu. Many of the earlier structures were constructed for religious and spiritual rather than artistic/aesthetic reasons, though they all had an aesthetic impact. The group was particularly drawn to the stone walling of Machu Pichu which was both awesome in its construction and had a strong aesthetic quality. Worth a look, if not a visit! We were also impressed with the presenter’s style and approach to his subject and we will be looking at further Sculpture Diaries in 2020. The February meeting, by contrast, saw us turn our attention to American Impressionism & the Garden Movement. This was a movement that flourished in the period from the end of the American Civil War [1865] until the early years of the C20. It saw American artists embracing a period of great economic and social change in the country and responding to the emergence of an affluent middle class that was developing a heightened cultural and artistic interest. The growing intensity of urban, industrial life produced a longing for an escape to a quieter, calmer world that could be seen in the peace of the domestic garden. The absence of an actual garden for many people was offset by the growing availability of ‘garden & outdoor art’ that was, itself, strongly influenced by the work of what were then ‘avant garde’ French impressionists such as Monet. The movement lasted for about forty years only to be overtaken by less ‘escapist’ approaches to how the modern world should be represented…..which may, of course, partly explain why members of the group had not heard of any of the artists mentioned! …..even though their work was pleasing on the eye! The next meeting of the group will be on April 2nd at 7 New Street. Apologies to Liz

[557266]. Two new members joined the group this month & have vowed to come again….meaning that, for the present, the group is, I’m afraid full. John Turner MUSIC APPRECIATION GROUP Co-ordinators: John Peverley 553614 Tony MacDonald 553910 Ken compiled a very interesting programme, based on pieces of classical music which had been used in films. For instance, Beethoven's 7th Symphony was used in T_ _ K_ _ _ '_S_ _ _ _ _. Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue was used in T_ _ G_ _ _ _ G_ _ _ _ _. Verdi's La Traviata in P _ _ _ _ _ W _ _ _ _. Debussy's Claire de Lune in A _ __ _ _ _ _ _ Can you work out what the films are? It was a really good choice of popular classics which was well worth revisiting. Some of us then went to Warwick Arts Centre to hear music by modern female composers performed by talented young musicians. We next meet at Doe Hall's on Thursday 19th March at 10:00am. Glenys Peverley POETRY READING Coordinator: Betty Wilson Tel: 209790 At first glance it seemed as if it was a difficult task to find suitable poems for our topic “Holy Places”. However, after some searching in various poetry books between us we found 27 poems to read. We started off with a traditional children’s poem called London Bells you may remember it - Oranges and Lemons say the bells of Saint Clements. We were greatly entertained by 6 poems by the very clever John Betjeman and a brilliant parody of Gray’s Elegy written by Sir John Collinge Squire. Other poems depicted various buildings and places some poets felt were very special to them in some calming holy way, or evoked a special emotion. All very interesting.

April 1st’s topic is “Sport” at Betty’s as usual - 2pm, refreshments Brian.

Betty

HISTORY GROUP Co-ordinator: Linda Patton Tel:- 556996

History Group visit to Kenilworth They include a talk about the Queen being dressed, and sampling mead in the Shop.

Photographs from Graham Ruff

At our February meeting we finished our study of Queen Elizabeth I. Was she really a boy who had been hurriedly brought in when she had died in childhood? What was her true relationship with Dudley? We discussed these topics along with many other interesting facts. Our study ended with a visit to Kenilworth Castle where we saw the dressing of the queen and learned about Queen Elizabeth's visits to the castle she had bestowed on her favourite. Although there was a very cold wind, we were lucky that the weather stayed dry. At our March meeting we will start to discuss the Stuart dynasty starting with King James I.

All are very welcome

Linda

WINE APPRECIATION GROUP Co-ordinator: Sue Sharp Tel 556255 This meeting took place at Lanes deli and members enjoyed a supper at Lanes deli. We were greeted with the choice of a Large glass of Malbec or Pino Grigio wine followed by an excellent beef Borgoine which was perfect on a gloomy cold February night. Our next meeting is on April 9th at Bitteswell village hall when we shall try sake wines accompanied with Japanese nibbles. Sue QUIZ GROUP Co-ordinator Sue Jones Tel: 556192 We met in Bitteswell Village Hall for our February meeting as the Jones Residence had become a hard hat area for that week. For once I knew all the answers to all the questions, an advantage of compiling the

quiz! We had an enjoyable afternoon and everyone went away knowing exactly what Michelangelo’s statue of David holds in his right hand. Quiz Group Diary March 12th Quiz afternoon hosted by Nohline, 1Mulberry Close, tel. 556985 April 9th Quiz afternoon hosted by Bob, 20 George Street, tel. 550922 We are a group who enjoy giving our brains some exercise in enjoyable and friendly competition. Members take turns to host the quiz afternoon in their homes. We have welcomed some new members to our group recently and at present we are unable to accept any more. We welcome anyone to join us when attending pub or charity quiz evenings and if you would like me to keep you informed of these events let me know. Sue Jones WHIST GROUP Co-ordinator: Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614 We shall meet on Thursday, April 2nd at 7:00pm in Bitteswell village hall. We would welcome new members to swell the ranks. It's always a better evening with more people. It's not a serious evening, but we do give prizes! Glenys PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP Co-ordinator: Alan Shean Tel 283512 We were very grateful to Gordon and Sue for allowing us to use their home for our February meeting. During the first half of our session Graham kindly showed us some prints and projected images from our earlier meetings. Discussing these from the point of view of composition and technical execution proved to be interesting and constructive. After refreshments (from the birthday girl - thanks Sue), we did some practical macro work using cheap everyday items. It's surprising what you can do with clothes pegs and sweet papers. Details of our April meeting will be circulated nearer the date. Alan Shean

HANDICRAFTS GROUP Co-ordinator Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614 I shall not be continuing as handicrafts co-ordinator, but if anyone else wishes to do so, please contact me. There will be no more sessions in the meantime. Glenys PLAY READING Co-ordinator: Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614 We abandoned the “Bedfull of Strangers” as being too much of a facre to be successful just reading it, so we began “A Pack of Lies” based on the true life case of the Kroger Russian spies in the 1960a. We will finish it on Wednesday March 11th at Doe Hall’s in Guthlaxton Avenue at 10.00am. If you’re interested in joining us, please contact me.. Glenys SCRABBLE Co-ordinator: Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614 Eight of us played at Linda's in February where Linda was again the overall winner, winning both her games. However, Frances had a “first” in that she placed all seven of her letters in one go, scoring a bonus of 50. \well done both those ladies! We next meet on Wednesday March 18th at Brenda's in Ashby Lane, Bitteswell at 2:30pm. Contact me if you are interested in joining us.

Glenys 1st WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Joint Co-ordinators:-Peter and Irene Moore. Tel:- 01455 552594.email:- peter79moore@gmail.com February 5th 2020 17 Walkers & 2 dogs set out from The Shilton Arms Pub, Shilton, near Coventry. We left the pub, crossed the Railway Bridge and the road and followed the track at the side of the Railway, past the village school and Church into Ansty village. The leader was blinded by the very bright and low Sun and missed the turning to the canal. We retraced our footsteps and took the track. A

mental note of a possible “Yellow Card” was registered as the excuse of *blindness* seemed a little weak. On along the canal for about 1 mile using the Aquaduct ,eventually turning right down a steep set of steps. Also, again blinded by the sun, the “Yellow Card” was confirmed as a definite and a Specsavers Voucher was suggested. On under the Railway arches and our coffee break was taken at a very convenient Picnic table and chairs. Using the Hopsford Manor House entry road, we turned right towards Old Hopsford Hamlet and left on the footpath towards Shilton Lodge Farm. We turned left at the Farm and enjoyed a lovely ramble,by sunshine, back to Shilton and most importantly the welcoming Pub. The food and variety of the menu was fantastic. I would recommend a treat with a Lunchtime visit. The “Yellow Card” was issued at the next lunch on 26th February at Bulls Head, Wolvey. Thanks for your continued support. Peter & Irene Moore Date of Walk :- 1st April 2020 Co-ordinator:- Peter Moore. Tel:- 01455 552594. Email:- peter79moore@googlemail.com Walk Organisers :- Peter and Irene Moore. Tel:- 01455 552594 Driving Distance:- 5 miles each way. Meeting Point and Time : Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 9.20am to leave at 9.30am. This is the annual Daffodil Walk within Newnham Paddox. Start Point and Time. The Barn, Pub & Restaurant & Micro Brewary, Coal Pit Lane, Willey. CV23 OSL. Start 10.00am. Order food before walk from Lunch Menu. This is gastro Pub serving quality food; however the Lunch Menu is very good and reasonably priced @ 2 for £15.00. Directions to start:- At Magna Park A5 island, take 3rd Exit towards Wolvey. The Pub is on the Right Hand side, approx. 1 mile after the Willey turn.

As you turn into the entrance, go straight on & turn right at the facing building (the Brewery) park in the car park ahead. Walk Description:- Leaving the pub turn right and left onto very quiet road towards Monks Kirby. In Brockhurst turn left into Newnham Paddox. The display of Daffodils is stunning. Continue on into Willey via Newnham Fields Farm and join the Lambs in the fields, returning to the pub via Spring Farm and Coal Pit Lane. There is a stretch of quietish road walking. Distance 5.25 miles. Only 2 stiles. Next Walk. Wednesday 6th May 2020. The Annual Bluebell Walk. Frankton near Princethorpe. Great Pub and good food. Excellent Lunch Menu. Peter and Irene Moore 2nd WEDNESDAY MEDIUM DISTANCE WALKING GROUP Co-Ordinator:- Mike Chapman 01455 209972 Last minute update (until 8:45am on the day) see www.wycliffelutterworthu3a.org/walking or follow the link in “Stop Press”.

Next Walk:- 8th April 2020 Walk Organisers:- Vicki & Bob Davis. 01455 209518 Meeting Point and Time:- Lutterworth Recreation Ground 9.15 to leave at 9.20 Start Point and Time:- Beside St John Church, Shenton (CV13 6DP). Roadside parking. Directions to the Starting Point:- Access A5 towards Atherstone until you reach A444. Turn right and then turn right when you reach Fenny Drayton. The turn will be signed for the Battlefield. Take 2nd turning on left to Shenton and continue through village taking a right over small bridge to reach the Church. I believe this is the most straightforward way but satnav may suggest other routes. Please allow time as the A5 can get busy. Route and Distance:- This walk includes canal towpath, country park, woodland, railway line, nature reserve and fields. Toilets are available halfway round. There is some road walking but only 1 stile. Distance 5 miles of easy walking.

February Walk On a sunny morning 12 walkers enjoyed the walk from Draycote visitors centre. There was no mud or stiles, which meant we could get into our stride and keep warm in a chilly breeze. The route set off along the reservoir dam then we picked up the old railway track into the village of Draycote. We had our coffee stop in this pretty village and admired the spring bulbs coming into flower. Everyone was delighted that there were no muddy boots at the end of the walk, a rare occurrence this winter! Sue Jones 4th WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinators: - Sue and Peter Creeden Tel: 01455 557888 February 2020 Walk Report The forecast of a “possible” dry morning tempted 23 walkers out to slosh around in the mud. Sue and Gordon Jones lead them from the Bulls Head, at Wolvey, heading down Wolds Lane, which starts as a hard surface, then turns into a track and, eventually, a field path to reach Mere Lane. A short way along this lane, crossing over and then a very short stretch of Fosse Way got us off the road and back into fields again heading to Copston Magna. In the small village we stopped to look at an old roller. A plaque beside it informed that it was circa 1889 when the parish was responsible for its own road maintenance and was pulled by horses. Carrying on we then crossed more fields to reach Wolvey Heath and then returned back along the road to the pub. Wednesday 25 March 2020 Walk Organisers:- Sue and Peter Creeden Tel: 01455 557888 Meeting Point and Time:- Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 09:25am to leave at 9.30am. Start Point and Time:- The White Lion Pub, North Kilworth, LE17 6DN. Toilets available. Depart at 10:00am Directions to the Start:- Take the Market Harborough Road to North Kilworth (A4304). As you pass through the village the White Lion Pub is on the right. Route and Distance:-. The planned route is to walk to South Kilworth via a circuitous

route and back (by a less circuitous route) and will be approximately 5.8 miles on road, tracks, field footpaths, old railway line and towpath but dependent on the weather and the amount of mud around (and the leader!) it may be shortened to approximately 5 miles. Lunch Arrangements:- The White Lion Pub has a varied lunchtime menu. Orders to be placed before we depart from the pub. Sue and Peter Creeden SHORT WALKS GROUP Co-ordinators: Lyn Foxwell Tel: 01455 553492 Fay Goodwin Tel: 01455 207822 February Walk Brenda and Mick took 13 walkers from Lutterworth Golf Club towards Misterton and through to Walcote. We risked life and limb crossing the Rugby Rd and the M1 slip roads but didn't lose anybody. It was cold but sunny. The wind was very fresh so blew away any cobwebs. We saw plenty of snowdrops and aconites and even a few violets peeping through. Lovely lunch at the Golf Club, we could have had the pancakes that were on the menu. The rain came as we sat in the dining area. Lucky us. Thank you Brenda and Mick for a lovely walk and arranging the weather. March will be Hillmorton canal walk and April will see us at Burbage Common when hopefully the bluebells will be out. Fay GARDEN VISITS GROUP Co-ordinator: Linda Patton Tel: 556996 The first garden group visit arranged for this year is to Hidcote Manor on Monday April 6th. Hidcote is one of England's great Arts and Crafts gardens and we should see a lovely display of spring flowers when we visit. We shall leave from outside the Wycliffe Rooms at 10.30 am and from Hidcote at around 4 pm. The cost is £11 for National Trust members and £24.40 for non-members. Please bring your cheque books and pay at the February meeting if possible as I always have to pay for the coach a few weeks before we go.

The next Garden Group outing is, of course, our two-day excursion to Harrogate stopping at Castle Howard on the first day, staying at the Cairn Hotel with dinner, bed and breakfast and then visiting RHS Harlow Carr with a guided tour and voucher for lunch at Betty's on the second day. I shall let all those who have booked have more information as soon as I receive it. The next day out arranged is to Elton Hall on Friday July 31st. Elton Hall is an extraordinary, romantic, part-Gothic house that has been in the Proby family since 1660 and the beautiful gardens have been restored during the last 30 years and now include mature topiary, an Orangery and stunning herbaceous borders. We shall leave from outside the Wycliffe Rooms at 10.30 am and from Elton Hall at around 4.15 pm. We shall a guided tour of the house. There is a cafe where we can buy lunch on arrival. The cost is £28. Linda NEW AGE KURLING GROUP Coordinators Roy and Barbara Maiden Tel: 550058 Another 2 well attended sessions for February. Everyone said they had a good time so roll on March. Our first session is on the 11th followed by our second session for March on the 25th. The floor is now very quick and much cleaner so come along, you will be made very welcome, and have some fun. Ullesthorpe village Hall (opposite the round house) is our venue on the second and fourth Wednesday afternoons, (clues for dates are above lol), so hope to see you there. Roy and Barbara SINGLES TAKEAWAY SUPPER GROUP Co-ordinator June Clayton Tel:209545 No report this month June

BRIDGE GROUP Co-ordinator: Kathy Scott-Simons Tel: 559945

We are now meeting at June's home (553418)) on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Fridays of each month (5th Fridays to be decided) at 2.00. If you enjoy a social game of bridge, please contact me for further information. Kathy Scott-Simons THEATRE GROUP Co-ordinator: June Clayton Tel: 209545 WHAT’S COMING UP?

Thursday June 4th – Carousel at Kilworth House (evening performance). Fully booked Own transport.

Tuesday August 18th – Half a Sixpence at Kilworth House (evening performance) Own transport. £40 – please pay by the March meeting.

Saturday April 25th – Humble Boy, a witty and touching comedy at The Bear Pit, Stratford upon Avon, leaving Lutterworth at 10.30am for a 2.30pm matinee. £19 ticket & transport £12 ticket only. Please pay at the March meeting. One ticket & place on the community coach available.

Are you interested in:

Thursday October 15th – My Best Friend’s Wedding at The Curve starring Alexandra Burke. 7.30pm performance £45 (ticket & transport. Please sign up at the meeting

June JAZZ GROUP Coordinator Graham Ruff -Tel: 556985 Six members met at Geoff Dean's on February 25th when we also celebrated Geoff's 80th birthday. We had a short talk on Joe King Oliver with some old recordings before hearing a variety of music. Jacques Loussier played Bach, Bunk Johnson played Alexander's Ragtime Band and Ottlie Patterson sang Weeping Willow Blues. We watched a DVD with Ken Colyer and Mont Sunshine shot in Hamburg in 1981. Don Byas played These foolish things and we heard Billie Holiday from almost exactly 80 years ago.

This brought us up to the break with lovely cake but no candles! Old Cars, charity shop purchases and cheap books were our half time topics. We then listened to Albert Ammons, Pearl Bailey and Sarah Vaughan, before watching more of the Hamburg concert with The Old Merry Tale Jazzband and then Humphrey Lyttelton. Artie Shaw 's version of Star Dust brought our afternoon to a satisfying close. Next month we meet at Graham's home 1 Mulberry Close Lutterworth on March 24th, as always if any new or old members wish to try us out just let Graham know Graham TEN PIN BOWLING Co-ordinator: Richard Whittington 209021

If you are right handed, left handed or

ambidextrous and you enjoy exercising with

a friendly group of people, join us for ten-pin

bowling. We meet on the 2nd Friday of the

month at 10.30 am on the car park at the

recreation ground to arrive at the Nuneaton

MFA Bowling, CV10 7SD, at 11.00am.

Contact Richard Whittington for more

information.

Richard Whittington LINE DANCING FOR BEGINNERS Co-ordinator: Carole Harrington Tel: 553438 We meet twice per month at the Pavilion on the Recreation Ground. As we have a good attendance at the moment no new members are being accepted and a waiting list has been created. If you are on the membership list and feel that the dancing is not for you, please let me know. Carole TABLE TENNIS Co-ordinator: Carole Harrington Tel: 553438 We meet every Monday (except for Bank Holidays) together with Wycliffe U3A from 2pm to approx.4pm at Walcote Village Hall.

New members are very welcome to try this group Carole Harrington BIRD WATCHING GROUP Coordinator: Rita Nicholls Tel 557412 The forecast was wet and it was, but no problem. Off to Bandon Marsh and dodged most it going from hide to hide. We had our usual count of birds but hard work. We saw 39 species (I think). Good views of kingfisher for all, which is always a bonus. Lots of tits at the feeders. The water was high but with boots or wellies we coped. We got a bit cold by 2.30 so called it a day. We go out next on March 27th. Maybe by then the first summer visitors will have arrived. Usual time with pack up. See you there. Rita CANASTA GROUPS June Hartopp Tel: 553418

June Hartopp runs the joint Canasta groups for Wycliffe and Lutterworth U3A on the first Friday of the month 10:00 – 12:00 and third Wednesday 10.00-12.00. Please contact June if you are interested in joining. UKULELE GROUP Co-ordinators: Peter Sneath and Barbara Wilkinson Tel: 553254 We continue to meet on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month from 9.30 until 11.30 in Bitteswell Village Hall. Peter Sneath and Barbara Wilkinson SINGLES DINING GROUP Co-ordinator: Brian Fowler Email: fowlerclaybrooke@aol.com Tel: 209336 Monthly lunch organisers vary Some members of our lunchtime dining group were on duty with boisterous grandchildren during school half term but those free of such cares made the trip to The Copt Oak Pub in Narborough for leisurely eating and chatting. Both activities were greatly enjoyed and forward plans for lunches were hatched as we dined.

On March 26th the group will return to The Pig in Muck in Claybrooke Magna. As always, the sign-up list will be at the U3A General Meeting in The Wycliffe Rooms or contact Brian by e-mail. fowlerclaybrooke@aol.com New members always welcome. Brian Fowler BUFFET SUPPER GROUPS Co-ordinator: Gwenda Jones Tel: 556923

Lovely food, drink and the lively discussion of members resulted in a most enjoyable evening at Linda and Ken's house this month. Amongst the many subjects discussed, "Ghosts" led to many stories, although Sue Sharp started to wish that she had not introduced the topic as the evening drew on and time came to go home alone!

Linda

Eleven of us enjoyed yet another wonderful evening, hosted by Lyn and Derek. As usual we all enjoyed a marvelous selection of delicious mains, puddings and beverages. We then settled down for what was to be an evening of friendly chat. Subjects of our conversation were varied, ranging from the inevitable ‘B’ word, local issues and to all the various places we had traveled to far and wide. This last subject prompted an impromptu session of live entertainment by our hostess. Laughter filled the room, although the actual format of the performance cannot be disclosed, due to licensing laws!! Thanks to the Foxwells for a memorable evening. Carole GROUPS ONE AND TWO STROLLING Group One Co-ordinator: Gwenda Jones Mobile: 07986 905 319 We stayed close to home this month when we discovered a little more about Lutterworth and our own very interesting parish church. Most of us had been several times into the church but not many knew of the very well known and extremely interesting wall

paintings, some of which go back to the 15th

century and most of us did not know what a hagioscope or squint was even though some had sung in the choir there at times. A most interesting and educational visit. We made our way afterwards to the Greyhound Hotel where we had an excellent lunch, one of the best we have had on our strolls. Next month, we will be visting Clipston Village. We will meet at the recreation ground to leave at 10.45am sharp. Gwenda Group Two Coordinator: John Lee Mob 07952 336 490 Strollers headed across the County boundary into Warwickshire on February 18th to the delightful village of Newbold-on-Avon. Approaching via the church path we passed the sunken ground that was once part of the canal. Inside the 15th century Church of St. Botolph we sat with rapt attention as John Lee brought the church history to life. Particular mention was made to The Boughton Family, benefactors to the church across several generations. There are many monuments in the chancel area, with a a very striking sculpture of Sir William and Dame Catherine Boughton. Others, the earliest dated 1454, illustrate the long connection between church and family. An intriguing incised alabaster tomb of Galftridus Allesley and his wife Alianora are the oldest artefacts. Alan Shean had done his homework on the stained-glass windows to further educate us on the styles and stories shown through this illuminating art form. In April Group 2 head to Cotesbach, meeting at The Coventry Road Rec. car park to leave at 10.30. If making your own way, please let John know beforehand. Brian Fowler MUSIC FOR FUN - SONGSTERS GROUP Bill Tomkins Tel: 01455 552864/07913 386476 bill_karen26@hotmail.com The Songsters have continued to work with energy on the repertoire introduced in

January. There’ll be more new items added to our large library of songs very soon, too. The words of the most recent items include a bit of Latin and a little French as well as both American English and elegant Victorian English English. There really is an enormous amount of material ‘out there’ waiting for us and it includes all sorts of music for voice. Correct use of the voice is extremely helpful in promoting good health – both physical and mental – and there is always room for more people to come and try out the Songsters. Unfortunately some groups have to impose a limit on the number of people that can fit into the venue; the Songsters don’t have that problem! Not only do we learn how to sing well, there’s always the odd bit of information to share: maybe a bizarre story about the origin of an item, or about the origin of the words or the music itself. Maybe something about how the music achieves its effect – and, come to that, noticing what that effect is! Our blend of having an enjoyable time and also learning the odd thing or two fulfils the U3A objective to a tee. We’d love to see you Bill.

LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUP Co-ordinators: Dianne and Brian Thorp Tel: 01455 209584 The discussion was about the churches and how they were managed on such a small income and also the difficulty of access. The discussion led to some interesting conclusions, and the possibility of us losing the small and usually most interesting churches from both the community and the architectural point of view! A few ideas were put forward including John's discovery of a church at Bushby, which was well attended but followed the "happy clappy" type of service. The conclusion was that we will lose the churches if more support is not forthcoming from either better use of the buildings or from other areas of

finance in the future. The next meeting will be at the Thorps' on 19th March, 2.00 for 2.15 start and the subject will be "measurement" as it applies to our daily lives. Ken CHARITY CORNER

Postcards for MAF:- Please remember to save your postcards and let Brian Fowler have them, either by post to him at 16 Roman Close, Claybrooke Magna LE17 5DU, or at any General Meeting Stamps for the ‘Medical Alert’ Charity Please remember to save your used postage stamps for Liz White, who is collecting these for the charity. Knit and Stitch needs volunteers like you to join us at Lutterworth Methodist Church on the first Thursday of each month between 2pm and 4pm to help make Linus quilts (for children in need of a hug) or to knit items for

charities and good causes. All equipment and help is provided. Knit and Stitch is also looking for donations of cotton fabric, threads, wadding and knitting wool. Just turn up to a meeting or for more information ring Sue Turner on 01455 554455 RECYCLE YOUR EMPTY COMPUTER TONER CARTRIDGES Liz White has some envelopes to enable you to send your empty inkjet toner cartridges to Recycle 4 Charity, which will donate money to Medical Detection Dogs. Please either let Liz have your used cartridges or help yourself to an envelope. They will be on the bar at the back of the hall at the monthly meetings.

Please make use of our notice board, which will be in the Wycliffe Rooms foyer during every General Meeting if you think there is anything our members might be interested in looking into further

NOTICES AND MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

WE WELCOME OUR NEW MEMBERS HOPING TO JOIN LUTTERWORTH U3A? If any members have friends who are interested in joining us, please give details of their address, telephone number and email address to our membership secretary, Alan Shean Tel: 01455 283512

Current Committee Members

Post Name Number

Chair Ken Patton 01455 556996

Vice-chair Roy Maiden 01455 550058

Secretary Minutes Secretary

Gwen Edwards 01455 209649

Treasurer/ Membership Secretary

Alan Shean 01455 283512

Social Account Treasurer/ Online Co-ordinator

Kate Ayres 01455 209074

Newsletter Editor Carmel Kerslake 01455 553790

Programme Secretary Margaret Foster 01455 553258

Groups Coordinator Linda Patton 01455 556996

Committee Member Theresa Phillips 07788 130339

Committee Member Lynne Grindlay 01788 860567

Co-opted member Mick Barrows (Equipment Organiser) 01455 556570

Co-opted member Peter Sneath 01455 553254

Co-opted member June Clayton 01455 209545

MONTHLY MEETINGS These are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 9.45am, in the Wycliffe Rooms, George Street, Lutterworth. Between 9.45am and 10.15am, coffee and tea will be served. The speaker will commence at 10.30am and the speech will last for 45 minutes. FORTHCOMING SPEAKERS March:- AGM - Fire Station presentation April:- Barbara Meyer: Big Cat Photography NEWSLETTER BY POST; E-MAIL or ONLINE If you change your e-mail address, please let me know so that you do not miss out on your newsletter.

The newsletter is available on our website: https://u3asites.org.uk/lutterworth/newsletters

Please contact the editor if you need one posted or e-mailed. Contact details: Carmel Kerslake - 3 King’s Way, Lutterworth, LE17 4QA Tel: 01455 553790 or 07815410167 (mob)

email: kerslakec@hotmail.com APRIL NEWSLETTER ENTRIES Please ensure group reports, notices and news are submitted before Friday 3rd April 2020 pm

LUTTERWORTH U3A GROUP MEETNGS – TIMING GUIDE

GROUP LEADER TELEPHONE FREQUENCY TIME

MONDAY

Buffet Supper Groups Gwenda Jones 01455 556923 1st

From 7.00 pm

Table Tennis Carole Harrington

01455 553438 Weekly 2.00-4.00

Music for Fun - Songsters Bill Tomkins 01455 552864 1st

& 3rd

10.15

Music for Fun - Ukulele Barbara Wilkinson Peter Sneath

01455 553254 2nd

& 4th

10-12noon

Handicrafts Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 3rd

2.00-4.00

History Group Linda Patton 01455 556996 4th 2.15-4.15

TUESDAY

Reading Group Linda Patton 01455 556996 1st

10.00-12.00

Music & Memories 1 Nohline Ruff 01455 556985 1st 2.00-4.00

Strolling Group 1 Gwenda Jones 01455 556923 3rd

am - varies

Strolling Group 2 John Lee 01455 556923 3rd

am - varies

Short Walks Group Fay Goodwin Lyn Foxwell

01455 207822 01455 553492

4th

10.00 onwards

Jazz Group Graham Ruff 01455 556985 4th

2.00-4.00

Line dancing for Beginners Carole Harrington

01455 553438

2nd

& 4th

2.30-4.00

WEDNESDAY

Poetry Betty Wilson 01455 209790 1st

2.00-4.00

Topical/Current Affairs Group Nigel McNeill 01455 641634 1st

10.00 onward

1st

Wednesday Walking Peter and Irene Moore

01455 552594

1st As arranged

2nd

Wed Medium Distance Walking Group

Mike Chapman 01455 209972 2nd 9.30 onward

Play Reading Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 2nd

10.00-12.00

New Age Kurling Group Roy Maiden 01455 550058 2nd

& 4th 2.00-4.00

Scrabble Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 3rd

2.30-5.00

Joint Canasta Group 2 June Hartopp 01455 553418 3rd

10.00-12.00

4th

Wednesday Walking Sue & Peter Creeden

01455 557888 4th

9.30 onward

THURSDAY

Whist Group Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 1st

7pm

Music and Memories 2 Nohline Ruff 01455 556985 1st 2.00-4.00

Art Appreciation

Rae Flowerday Sue Woodhead

01455 556942 01455 558037

1st 10.00-12.00

Quiz Group Sue Jones 01455 556192 2nd

2.00-4.00

Wine Appreciation Group Sue Sharp 01455 556255 2nd

Evening

Music Appreciation John Peverley Tony MacDonald

01455 553614 01455 553910

3rd

10.00-1200

Lively Discussion Dianne and Brian Thorp

01455 209584 3rd

2.15-4.00

FRIDAY

Photography Group Alan Shean 01455 283512 1st 10.00-12.00

Bridge Kathy Scott Simons

01455 559945 2nd

/3rd

/4th 2.00-5.00

Joint Canasta Group 1 June Hartopp 01455 553418 1st 10.00-12.00

Ten Pin Bowling Richard Whittington

01455 209021 2nd

11.00-1.15

Bird Watching Group Rita Nicholls 01455 557412 4th

9.30 onward

VARIOUS

New Adventure Group Ken Patton 01455 556996 As arranged Varies

Garden Visits Linda Patton 01455 556996 Varies Daytime

Theatre Group June Clayton 01455 209545 Varies Varies

Jean Williamson 01455 209882

Pauline Harrison 01455 209064

Singles Takeaway Group June Clayton 01455 209545 Varies Evening

Singles Dining Brian Fowler 01455 209336 Varies Varies

Joint Golf Section Peter Moore Ken Patton

01455 552594 01455 556996

As arranged Varies

Always check online for possible timing variations.

Please remember to update your online Group page in order to keep your group members and potential new members informed.

Lutterworth U3A AGM 2020 16th Annual General Meeting

To be held in the Wycliffe Rooms, George Street, Lutterworth On 10 March 2020 at 10.15am

Agenda

1. Welcome by Chairman 2. Notices 3. Apologies for absence 4. Minutes of 2019 AGM 5. Treasurer’s report and presentation of accounts 6. Annual subscription 7. Election of Honorary officers 8. Election of other members of the committee 9. Appointment of examiner of accounts 10. Other business 11. Date of AGM 2021 12. Chairman’s report