I joined the Holidays Group as a means of going on holidays with people I know that I probably would not have done by myself.The trip to India was a great success and Caren Simpson, Sue Sharpe and I had an unforgettable time.

The Saga organisation was first class, thanks mainly to our tour guide, Manish, who was unflappable, had a good sense of humour, and made the few long coach journeys seem shorter by telling us all about Indian life.

Highlights of the trip were the Amber Fort and the City Palace in Jaipur, visits to a Sikh temple and a Hindu temple, an unsuccessful tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park (though we did see lots of wild life), a train trip (thankfully not on the roof!), Agra Fort (in the fog), and of course the magical Taj Mahal.

One lasting memory will be of the undisciplined traffic everywhere and the way our coach driver and his assistant kept us accident-free, despite on our final journey out of Delhi in thick fog, starting off down the wrong carriageway of the motorway!

Geoff Gibbs

PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION WINNER

Issue No. 179 November 2017

NEWSLETTER

Graham Ruff

This year's entry covered a wide range of topics and reflected the talent of our members who submitted their shots. It was an enjoyable challenge selecting a winner, but the interesting point of view and technical competence of "Wild Flowers - Santorini" made it a worthy winner. The use of colour is an important feature of this image, which can only be appreciated on our website version. Congratulations to Graham Ruff who has scooped the prize for the second time.

Alan Shean

Car Parking at Wycliffe Rooms

PLEASE NOTEIT IS NO LONGER FREE TO PARK BEHIND WYCLIFFE

ROOMSPAY £1 ON EXIT

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

LINE DANCING FOR BEGINNERS (NEW)Co-ordinator: Carole Harrington   Tel: 553438 15 members attended the first meeting and managed to do five dances.The next meeting will be on 28th Nov.We probably have sufficient numbers but if anyone is particularly keen to join please ring Carole.

Carole

HISTORY GROUP (NEW)

We had a lovely turnout for our first History Group Meeting at which we learned about William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings. Members chose to go back a little further in English history and chose as the topic for our November meeting, Alfred the Great. If you would like to learn more about this English king, please join us at our next meeting, you will be very welcome. If you wish to research any topic before the meeting, you may do so but there is no requirement to do this.

Linda

QUIZ GROUPCo-ordinator Sue Jones Tel: 556192

I missed the October quiz afternoon and Dilys has kindly provided the following report:The October Quiz hosted by Kate and Carmel was another challenge for the little grey cells. One round meant finding out the names of Michael Caine films from very cryptic clues. My team had not heard of a lot of them, but by sheer ingenuity, we solved most of them. We were very pleased with ourselves!! One tabletop quiz involved identifying English counties from a map. Full marks to Marilyn and Lynne for getting them all right. We were not so good on dates and fared very poorly on our Joker round. Altogether, a very enjoyable afternoon and the refreshments at half time were delicious

with homemade cakes and biscuits. Our thanks to our hosts.

Dilys

Quiz Group DiaryNov 9th Quiz afternoon hosted by Dilys at Ty Inney, Main Street, Peatling Parva tel. 01162 478493Dec 14th Quiz afternoon hosted by Lynda at 1, Guthlaxton Ave, tel. 553492Members of this group take turns to host the quiz afternoon in their homes and at the moment we have reached capacity, therefore I regret to say we cannot accept any new members. However, we welcome you 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.If you are interested in joining a second quiz group, please contact Brian Fowler tel. 209336.This month’s brainteaser. What was the first music played on the moon?

Sue Jones

POETRY READING Coordinator: Betty Wilson Tel: 209790

The Theme of the October Meeting was Women Poets and we had the usual variety of poems, happy ones, sad ones and the occasional poem when we were not quite sure what the poet was trying to say. That problem did not arise with the wonderful Pam Ayres, whose poems are perfectly straightforward and very funny. Our new member Carol read them with exactly the right accent. Another enjoyable afternoon.The next meeting will be at Betty's house, 7, The Dell, Ullesthorpe, tel. 01455 209790. Please let Betty know if you will be attending. New members welcome.  

Dilys England

READING GROUP

Co-ordinator: Linda Patton Tel: 556996

“The Keeper of Lost Things” by Ruth Hogan was the subject for a hilarious hour of discussion at our October meeting. It was a very easy read and appreciated by the majority of our members who considered the characters to be “lovely” people, the subjects, “lovely” things and the book to be full of “lovely” descriptions and almost poetic. It is the type of book to fall asleep over and is full of comedy BUT others found the coincidences rather difficult to swallow. n As I have said in previous months, we do read a very varied selection of books all chosen by the members and next month we shall be discussing “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier, “A Place Called Winter” by Patrick Gale at our December meeting and then “The London Eye Mystery” by Siobhan Dowd in January. We always choose a lighter novel to read in December, as everyone is so busy. Please join us in Bitteswell Village Hall, our new meeting place, if you want to share your views about a book with us and hopefully have a laugh or two.

Linda

WINE APPRECIATION GROUPCo-ordinator: Sue Sharp Tel 556255

What a jolly lot we are. Our annual visit to the Holly Bush to play skittles was as always a lively affair and it was lovely to see new faces at this year’s get-together as so many of our regular members were away rambling. Brian was the star skittler and his team won too with “surprizes” of crisps and pork scratchings. I am sure that many of you will now be paying surreptitious visits to the Holly Bush before the event to practise for next year. Our next get-together will be in Bitteswell Village Hall on Thursday 14th December, when, in addition to imbibing some wine, we shall have arranged another evening of fun. Please let Sue Sharp know if you will be joining us.

Linda Patton

1st WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUPJoint Co-ordinators:Julian Hargreaves 01455 557704Roger Watmore 01455 552431

Date of walk: 6th December 2017 – Christmas Lunch WalkWalk organisers: Sue and Peter Creeden 01455 557888 Meeting Point: Lutterworth Recreation Ground car park at 9.30am to leave at 9.35am.Start point and time: - The Chequers Country Inn, Ullesthorpe (Postcode LE17 5BT). Toilets will be available. Departure at 10:00am.Directions to start: Take the road to Bitteswell and continue to Ullesthorpe. The Chequers Country Inn is on the right as you go through the village.Route and distance: - A relatively easy 4.5 mile walk along lanes and tracks with no stiles.Lunch Arrangements: - To be pre-ordered with Sue and Peter Creeden and paid no later than 17 November 2017

October Walk:-27 walkers and 3 dogs met at the Cock Inn, Peatling Magna (normally closed at lunch, but opening specially for us). We headed over field paths to Countesthorpe where we took coffee in the Church grounds and close to the Co-op that had had its ATM removed by force. Unfortunately, there were no fivers still blowing in the wind. Our return journey took us via Willoughby Waterleys back to The Cock Inn where 21 stayed to enjoy a drink and a pub lunch.

Mike Chapman

2nd WEDNESDAY MEDIUM DISTANCE WALKING GROUPJoint Co-ordinators: Julian Hargreaves 01455 557704Mike Chapman 01455 209972 / 07860 118426Last minute update (until 8:45am on day of walk) see http://www.ashbyparva.net/u3awalk

There will be no walk in December.

Thanks to all the walk organisers who provided some excellent walks during the year.

October walk

10 members met just outside Blaby on a windy but dry day (as many of the regular walkers had gone on the group walking

holiday to Sedbergh, I expected the turnout to be low). We walked along the Grand Union canal towards Leicester and many people were surprised by how rural the walk felt considering how near to main roads we were. After a coffee stop, we joined the Great Central Railway for a return towards Blaby via suburban Glen Parva. A simple walk of just under 5 miles, which seemed to be enjoyed by all.

Vicki Davis

4th WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUPCo-ordinators: - Sue and Peter Creeden Tel: 01455 557888

Next Walk:- 22nd November 2017Walk Organiser:- George Robertson 07986827270.Meeting Point and Time :- Lutterworth Recreation Ground carpark at 9.20am to leave at 9.30 am.Start Point and Time:- The Arnold Arms CV23 8UE 10.00am Directions to start:- South on the A5. At Kilsby join the A361 Daventry Rd. Cross the M45 and turn right to Barby on The Ridgeway and then turn right when the cross road is reached. The Arnold Arms is through the village and on the right. The pub has parking front and rear. Route and Distance:- The walk takes us along farm tracks down to the canal, which we follow to Whitehall Farm and across field paths before returning to the canal and walking through Barby Marina before returning to Barby. The walk distance is 5 miles with 5 stiles and a final uphill stretch.Lunch Arrangements:- At The Arnold Arms. We will place food orders before we leave. Toilets will be available. Lunchtime mains £7-£8.

BUFFET SUPPER GROUPCo-ordinator: Gwenda Jones Tel: 556923

Eleven of us were warmly welcomed by Sue and Gordon, where six of us sat around the dining table while the other five reclined at the end of the room on the sofas with their lap trays. After the meal we all joined forces.The conversation ranged from Donald Trump, the terrible shooting in Las Vegas and the collapse of Monarch airlines. After superb food and good wine, the chat became lighter with much hilarity. Holidays were

discussed with amusing stories and it all rounded up to a most enjoyable evening. Many thanks to Sue and Gordon for an excellent evening.The November Supper will be hosted by Brenda & Mick and Lyn and Derek.  In December, we are all invited to Liz and David's house and will be there by 6.45pm to start eating at 7pm prompt. Please let Liz know what you will be bringing.

Gwenda

MUSIC AND MEMORIESCo-ordinator Nohline Ruff tel. 556985

As Nohline and Graham were enjoying their holiday on the River Main in Germany, the October meeting was held at Gwenda’s house. We were reduced to only six of us as three other members had previous engagements, nevertheless we had a lot of fun, listening to singers and orchestras that we had not heard for some time, and hearing the memories. We heard songs from Matt Monroe, David Bowie, Joni Mitchell, Barry Manilow, The Shepshed Singers and Marion Anderson along with others. We also listened to a very melodious rendition by the Scots Dragoon Guards. A very varied and enjoyable afternoon.The next meeting will be at the home of Dilys England, Ty Inney, Main Street, Peatling Parva, LE17 5PU. Tel: 01162478493 at 2pm on Tuesday 7th November.

Gwenda Jones.

MUSIC APPRECIATION GROUPCo-ordinators: John Peverley 553614Tony MacDonald 553910

Hazel led us through the development of the brass band and made the links with classical music as the pieces played were transposed for brass instruments. Often the "banders" were used to bolster orchestras if more brass sound was needed.We are all old enough to remember bandstands. Alan reminisced about his youthful euphonium experience, but we cannot divulge why this particular brass instrument was allocated to him, but he was probably on seat six! Ken told us about his clash with cymbals in his marching band days at school. Great fun! We listened to the C.W.S. Manchester band playing Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture on a period

record player (I think). Then came some more melodic Woganesque Floral Dance, Sullivan's Iolanthe and more. Thanks to Hazel for her interesting programme. We meet at Caren Simpson's next on November 16th, where "own choice" will be the format. Guests are welcome.

John Peverley

GROUPS ONE AND TWO STROLLINGCo-ordinator Group One: Gwenda Jones Tel: 556923Mobile: 07986905319Coordinator Group Two: John Lee Tel: 556923

Group OneIt was a beautiful, sunny morning when we set out to explore the village church and history of Ravensthorpe in Northamptonshire. A pretty village with a lot of thatched roofs. All of the strollers now know what a hatchment is and what it is used for as we saw an excellent example of two of these in St Denys church. We lunched at The Chequers Inn, which we can heartily recommend. A lovely Autumn day, a typical English village, excellent company and a great meal what else could you wish for?

Next month we will be visiting Leire and will meet at the recreation ground at 10.45am

Gwenda

Group Two

Graham RuffOn October 17th, John Lee led an excited group of 22 to the village of Gaddesby, which lies a little way south of Melton Mowbray. In the interesting Norman Church John unveiled some of the rich history of the

village. Perched into ancient wooden pews dating back to the 15th century we gazed with awe at the poppy head ends to the pews, many sadly ravaged by attack from death watch beetle but magnificent nevertheless. The timber roof trusses are remarkable and the huge stone edifice of a horse and rider dominates the chancel. Gaddesby or Gadesbi, as listed in the Domesday Book dates to a Danish settlement in the 9th century. The route to the church from the village took us past the impressive Gaddesby Hall, built originally in 1390 and formerly surrounded by a moat. A host of interesting houses are scattered through the village including several former hunting lodges and nearby rests a huge boulder known as “The Blue Stone” from which it is reputed that John Wesley preached a sermon.

Graham RuffThe Cheney Arms, named after the Colonel seated on the horse in the church, was the venue for the splendid lunch after the stroll

Group 2 will gather in Coventry Road Rec. Car Park on Tues. Nov 21st to journey to Ravensthorpe in Northamptonshire, departure by 10-30 am sharp.

Brian Fowler

PLAY READINGCo-ordinator: Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614

For various reasons, not to mention our Leader flying off to Italy to enjoy herself! we were down to only six members at the meeting held at Gwenda’s house in October. The low numbers caused some problems as most of us had to take on more than one character, which at times meant we were speaking to ourselves, and occasionally forgot who we were. We enjoyed the second part of ‘The House’ by Alan Ayckbourn

although it was not quite as humorous as the first part. We will meet again on Wednesday 8th November at 10am, when Anne Hayes will be our host.

Gwenda Jones

HANDICRAFTS GROUPCo-ordinator Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614

Our next session is at Pat's home, 33 Holly Drive Lutterworth, on Monday November 20th at 2:00pm .Bring anything you enjoy making with your hands, which can be accommodated around a dining table. It's a friendly, chatty session and we would welcome new members

Glenys Peverley

WHIST GROUPCo-ordinator: Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614

We next meet on Thursday December 7th in Bitteswell village hall at 7:00pm and thereafter each first Thursday of the month. We would welcome new members, so as to have a more interesting session, playing a greater number of people. Please contact me if you are interested.

Glenys Peverley

SCRABBLECo-ordinator: Glenys Peverley Tel: 553614

A happy afternoon was spent at Brenda's, where seven of us played. Glenys managed to win both her games, only by the skin of her teeth; Linda and Liz taking the lead until the last minute. We next meet at Glenys' on November 15th at 2:30pm. 7 Magnolia Drive, Lutterworth. We would welcome new members. Please contact me if you are interested.

Glenys Peverley

SINGLES DINING GROUP Co-ordinator: Val Howson. Tel: 552130Email:-vhowson4@gmail.comMonthly lunch organisers vary

Cheiko’s Restaurant in Lutterworth was an easy to get to venue in October when John Hughes played host to the group at his favourite dining place. Our selections from the excellent menu were quickly and tastefully served and joyfully consumed. As always, these gatherings enable a wide range of conversation, which all adds to the flavour and interchange that members of this friendship group enjoy along with good food and wine. A big “Well Done” to John for organising this visit.

On Thursday November 16th Sue Sharp will host the party at The Royal Oak in Bitteswell. Anyone not yet on the list for that lunch should contact Sue on 556255 or e-mail susan.sharp682@btinternet by Nov 10th latest.

The Christmas lunch will be enjoyed in The Lincoln Room at Ullesthorpe Court Hotel. Just 2 places remain available for the meal on Thursday Dec. 14th. To take up these places the final closing date is the November General meeting or call Brian on 01455 209336

Brian Fowler

LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUPCo-ordinator: Gwenda Jones Tel: 556923

Derek Deacon provided a topic for discussion in October that embraced the arts at many differing levels. After a brief introduction the group was invited to focus on “How important is art & culture in society? And how should it be funded?”To many of us it seems a waste when money is invested in piles of rubbish, unmade beds and smears of paint on an otherwise blank canvas, with many such items being funded from public funding. On the other side, works of art from Classical artists and sculptors, carvings, music and dance in the many forms in which they are expressed provide awe and wonder to many. It was noted that children and young people learn much from visits to Galleries, museums and concert halls and through such visits may be inspired to develop their own special gifts.

Funding coming from The Lottery Heritage Fund and the National purse is greatly supplemented by vast sums donated by benefactors. Through small awards made to local groups and institutions children and young people who may be disadvantaged through health, disability or from upbringing can enter worlds of art where huge benefits can be accrued through self-expression. Latent talent possessed by many who suffer from Asperger’s syndrome or Autism for example is enabled from these forms of funding,In summing up, members hoped that more opportunities for taster sessions could be provided in centres away from the metropolis and at affordable prices. It was sad to wind up this topic but the group now looks forward to November 16th when Linda Patton will ask, “Should we all now be asking our retailers to supply us with more British Goods? Should we buying more British?!”

Brian Fowler

GARDENS GROUP Co-ordinator: Linda Patton Tel: 556996

Look out for next year’s offerings and join us as you will all be very welcome and don’t forget, we also have a holiday when you can spend four days and three nights with us in North Norfolk.

Linda Patton

TEN PIN BOWLINGCo-ordinator: Alan Kemp Tel: 203009

If you enjoy exercise with a friendly group of people join us for tenpin bowling.  We meet on the 2nd Friday of the month at 9.30am on the car park at the recreation ground.Contact Alan Kemp for more information.

Alan Kemp

TABLE TENNISCo-ordinator: Carole Harrington Tel: 553438We meet every Monday (except for Bank Holidays) together with Wycliffe U3A from 2pm to approx.4pm at Walcote Village Hall. New members are always welcome.

Carole Harrington

BRIDGECo-ordinator: Kathy Scott-Simons Tel: 559945

We meet at a different venue during each month.  If you enjoy a social game of bridge, please contact me for any further information. 

Kathy Scott-Simons

DAYS OUT GROUPCo-ordinators Gordon and Sue Jones Tel: 01455 556192

There are details and a booking form for a Christmas decorations trip to Chatsworth House in this Newsletter. There are still places available on this trip, there are enough booked for it to run.

Gordon

THEATRE GROUP Co-ordinator: June Clayton Tel: 209545

REMINDER

Thursday November 2nd ‘Cabaret’ a matinee performance at Milton Keynes, leaving the Lutterworth Wycliffe Rooms at 10.30. Fully booked Wednesday 13th December Scrooge (Musical) an evening performance at The Curve leaving the Wycliffe Rooms at 6.15pm. Please visit the table for your receipt.

PLEASE COME TO THE THEATRE TABLE AND SIGN UP FOR:

Thursday February 22nd ‘Beautiful’ the musical, a 2.30pm matinee performance at Milton Keynes, leaving Lutterworth at 10.30. £42 (ticket & transport).Tuesday April 17th An Officer and a Gentleman’ a 7.30pm performance at the Curve, Leicester, leaving Lutterworth at approx 6.15. £30(ticket and transport)Thursday May 31st Guys and Dolls a 7.30pm performance at Kilworth House. £35 (ticket only, own transport).

June Clayton

JAZZ GROUPCoordinator Graham Ruff -Tel: 556985

There were only four of us at our October meeting when we welcomed new member Geoff Dean. After general chat, we started the music with a piece by The Sonny Monk Jazz group who started life at the Hungry i pancake house in Leicester. Then we heard Nina Simone singing ' Feeling Good' followed by pieces by Savannah, Jimmy Knepper, Fats Waller, Ken Colyer and George Lewis. During the tea break, Jim and Geoff discovered that they had both worked for the same company in the past - the long arm of coincidence again. We continued with music by Glenn Miller, Bix Beiderbecke, Miles Davis, Ben Webster, Brian Carrick and Graham's favourite singer Norma Winstone. As usual, a congenial afternoon and the usual variety of interesting music. The next meeting will be at Graham's house, 1 Mulberry Close on 28th November. Please let him know if you will be attending on 01455 556985

Dilys

3 rd TUES DAY WALKING GROUP Co-ordinator Gordon Jones Tel: 556192

Date of Walk: Tuesday 21st November 2017Co-ordinator: Gordon Jones, 01455 556192Walk Organisers: Mick and Brenda Barrows 01455 556570, 07808868371Meeting Point: Car park at Coventry Road recreation ground.Meeting Time: 09.20 to leave at 09.30.Route and distance: From Butlers Leap, Rugby CV21 3TX (Toilets Open). Tow path, surfaced old railway, field paths and roadside paths. 5½ miles.Lunch: Butlers Leap Grill and Pizza, Meal deal (Meal and Drink) £6.00 or from the menu.Directions to Start: A426 to Rugby. At the third island after the M6, take the first exit, Boughton Road leading into Butlers Leap. At the end of the road turn right (Clifton Rd) and first right (Ridge Dr), the pub is on the right.Return Mileage from Lutterworth: 15 Miles

October WalkEight of us walked from Lubenham. It was a good walking day and we had an enjoyable walk on pretty good going towards Mkt Harborough then turned across the old airfield to the prison and on to Foxton. The path goes through a small private sculpture

park in Foxton, we spent a while trying to determine what one or two represented. Coffee stop at the bottom of the locks then up the flight and back to Foxton on field paths. Seven of the walkers and two others had a good lunch at the Coach and Horses

Future walks: We do not intend to arrange a Christmas lunch as the walk date, the 19th, is very close to Christmas and there are a number of earlier dinners arranged. Possibly a better than average meal in January. I would like to promote Peter Creeden’s lunch on December 6th at the Chequers at Ullesthorpe, which we will attend. Contact Peter on 557888.

2018 Walking Weekend. See the booking form in this Newsletter. Some places still available a time of writing, no singles left.

Gordon

BIRD WATCHING GROUPCoordinator: Rita Nicholls Tel 557412October report

Rita’s dilligently handwritten report was duly hand delivered to the Editor and was added to the newsletter. At some point in the following week, it was inadvertently deleted. Apologies to Rita and the group.

The group will go out again on Friday 24th November under the guidance of Derek Deacon as Rita is on holiday. Usual time of 09.30 at Rec Car Park with pack-up.

Carmel

HERITAGE GROUPCo-ordinator: Peter Carter Tel: 552886

There was no outing in October. Current planning for November is a visit to the Anglo Saxon church of All Saints Brixworth. However, they are preparing for a Christmas Tree Festival and may not be able to accommodate us. An update will be sent to members on the mailing list, Please contact the Co-ordinator if you wish to be included via email to: carter849@btinternet.com

Peter Carter

UKULELE GROUPCo-ordinators: Peter Sneath and Barbara Wilkinson Tel: 553254

At the first meeting in October, we welcomed a new member to the group.  We lent her a ukulele and set her off on the task of learning the first few chords.At the end of the month, we welcomed Peter back from his nursing duties in Scotland.The session was spent revising chords and strumming patterns before trying out several Old Time Music Hall songs and two more modern ones.

The next meetings will be on November 13th and 27th and then only one meeting in December on the 11th.  There will then be a break over the Christmas period before we reconvene on January 8th 2018.

Barbara Wilkinson

SINGLES TAKEAWAY SUPPER GROUPCo-ordinator June Clayton Tel:209545

Our next supper will take place at June's home on Saturday November 25th. Looking forward to seeing everyone there.

Brenda

ART APPRECIATION GROUPCo-ordinators: Rae Flowerday Tel. 556942 & Sue Woodhead Tel. 01455 558037

For the group’s October meeting we considered the work of two contemporary, Turner Prize winning artists, Grayson Perry & Rachel Whiteread. The focus for Grayson Perry was on his work as a potter, though, whilst accepting that he would always be known as the ‘Tranny Potter’, he saw himself much more as ‘an artist who makes pots’. Indeed, he has also produced a range of tapestries which, like his pottery, is full of both ‘in your face’ and subtle social commentary. The group enjoyed his work in which they saw both great artistic merit as well as the outpouring of a sharp and perceptive intellect. We were less taken with Rachel Whiteread’s work, focussed as it was on the production of installations made of concrete. Perhaps her most effective work was the austere holocaust memorial sculpture in Vienna, but her focus on taking casts of the interior of buildings and of

furniture in order to ‘mummify the sense of silence in a room’ left us all somewhat bemused.Our next meeting will be on Thursday 23rd November when we will be looking at the first of three programmes on the ‘Art of Russia’, entitled ‘Out of the Forest’. Homework is to research early Russian art & to consider its development in relation to the European tradition... Venue: 12, Meriton Road. Apologies to Dorothy [Tel 552430].

John Turner

SHORTER WALKS GROUPCo-ordinators:Lyn Foxwell Tel: 01455 553492Fay Goodwin Tel: 01455 207822

November Walk: Newbold-on-AvonDate of walk: Tuesday 28th NovemberMeeting point: Recreation ground car park at 10.00 a.m.

October WalkDue to bad weather being forecast, plus it was ½ term and others on holiday, we were down to just 5 walkers.  The weather actually stayed good and a warm wind was appreciated rather than the rain.  We started off down the road at the side of the church in Broughton Astley, crossed the brook and headed over the fields towards Leire.  We had a couple of stiles, which were not very high (we do try to avoid stiles).  When we Lane towards the mill.  We couldn’t pass Pauline and Colin’s farm without saying “hello” and wishing Colin a speedy recovery.  They gave us the best hospitality (drinks and cake) last year when they were celebrating their Diamond Wedding.  We continued our walk through fields and housing estate back to The White Horse pub.Thanks to Jeanne for recommending the walk although you were unable to come.

Lyn

MUSIC FOR FUN - SONGSTERS GROUPBill Tomkins Tel: 01455 552864/07913 386476bill_karen26@hotmail.com

Rehearsals through the autumn have been busy and have seen pleasing progress - eg details applied to one song being applied to

another without the need for a comment from me. Our preparations for the December monthly meeting are going well and we are beginning to get excited about sharing our music making with everyone. Don't be deterred from joining us if you want to try us. Any rehearsal is equally good as your first one!!

Bill Tomkins.

JOINT GOLF SECTIONLutterworth and Wycliffe u3aCo-ordinator Peter Moore Tel: 01455 552594E-mail – peter79moore@googlemail.com

Details of further meetings will be in future newsletters

HOLIDAYS GROUPCo-ordinator: Caren Simpson:  mob 07708304858 or landline 01455203554

Jersey ReportA party of six members of the Lutterworth U3A returned this year to the ideally located Golden Sands Hotel to enjoy the warm autumn sunshine on St Brelade’s Bay on the Channel island of JerseyWhilst Jersey is a small island approx. 9x5miles, there is a lot to see and it has an excellent bus service. Jersey has given its name to a sweater, a breed of cow, a potato, a lily, Jersey Pearls, even an American state!

Originally part of Normandy, when William the Conqueror invaded England Jersey came under English rule. In 1204, King John lost Normandy to France. The islanders were given the choice to stay with Normandy or remain loyal to the English Crown. They chose England and gained special rights and privileges, which remain today. The Island has its own government, the States of Jersey and is loyal to the British Crown but is not part of the UK or the EU, sounds a good idea to me.

The island is divided into 12 parishes, all Saints, the capital being St Helier.While we were on the island, an International Triathlon took place and a Book fair with well-known Authors present. There are many Museums to visit, for a fee, unlike the UK. Also, The Jersey National Trust have a number of sites and you can use UK membership cards. Two of our party escaped from the island for a day and visited Guernsey via a high-speed catamaran. St. Malo in France was also an option. Many Food/Sea food temptations, including a Winery. We caught up with Una’s cousin who had left England to go tomato picking there many years ago and settled.Just one cautionary tale, the seagulls are very skilful, relieving me of my ice cream after just two licks!The Hotel staff observed strict meal times but otherwise were very helpful. Some of our nights included live music. Travel arrangements, including all transfers, were expertly handled by Holiday Lounge of Lutterworth in conjunction with Premier Holidays.

Phil Ashton

At our November meeting, we are pleased to inform you that we have a speaker; Mr. Alan Coltman from Great Rail Journeys Of The World. This talk will be very informative and very interesting. We look forward to seeing all members, new and old.

Our meeting will be held at The Garden Barn, Cotesbach. 10am Friday 17th November 2017.

Caren

Details of some of the proposed holidays our members are interested in. Prices vary according to dates.

ITALY Exploring Tuscany                                       11th APRIL 2018 :  7 NIGHTS, HALF BOARD.  £519 per person sharing -   DEPOSIT £51.    CRETE Castello Boutique Resort and Spa             8th MAY 2018 : 7 NIGHTS, HALF BOARD.  £690 per person sharing. -  DEPOSIT £60.                                     LAKESIDE LODGE   -   AFRICA 18th June 2018 : 9 DAYS, ALL INCLUSIVE.  £1,699 per person sharing. -   DEPOSIT £169.90 

LAKE MAGGIORE2nd October 2018 : 8 DAYS, HALF BOARD.   £1,019 per person sharing.   DEPOSIT £100 

If anyone is interested in joining any of the holidays and would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact Caren Simpson, on 01455 203554 or come along to our next meeting – details above.

NOTICES AND MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

WELCOME TO 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 NumberChair Linda Patton 01455 556996Vice-chair Ken Patton 01455 556996Secretary Sue Woodhead 01455 558037Treasurer Gill Alford 01455 553431Assistant Treasurer Gordon Jones 01455 556192Membership Secretary Alan Shean 01455 283512Newsletter Editor Carmel Kerslake 01455 553790Programme Secretary Margaret Foster 01455 553258Minutes Secretary Gwen Edwards 01455 209649Groups Coordinator Brian Fowler 01455 209336Committee Member Liz White 01455 230899Co-opted member Mick Barrows (Equipment Organiser) 01455 556570Co-opted member Peter Sneath 01455 553254Co-opted member June Clayton 01455 209545Co-opted member Kate Ayres (Online Co-ordinator) 01455 209074

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 SPEAKERSNovember 14th - Danny Wells talking on the subject 'The Victorians and the Christmas Season'December 12th - Christmas Extravaganza! (Members)

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 emailed.

Contact details:

Carmel Kerslake - 3 King’s Way, Lutterworth, LE17 4QA Tel: 01455 553790or 07815410167 (mob)email: kerslakec@hotmail.com

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER ENTRIESPlease ensure group reports, notices and news are submitted before Friday 1st December 2017 pm

EVENTS FOR THE DIARY

Events details are available online athttps://u3asites.org.uk/lutterworth/events

Wednesday 13th December 2017Days Out Group – Chatsworth House Christmas

………………………………………………………

FAMILY HISTORY

I am very happy to help people with their family history research, so whether you are a just beginning to research your family tree or more experienced and have come to a halt and need advice, do get in touch. Please contact me by phone 01455 554455or at kelowna32@supanet.com

Sue Turner………………………………………………………

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 2 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

Christmas Shoebox Appeal 2017

Thank you very much to all the people who kindly donated shoeboxes, wrapping paper and small items to this year’s Christmas Shoebox Appeal. We have managed to fill over 160 boxes, which have been sent to Africa and Europe to put a smile on the faces of children who will receive very little this Christmas. On their behalf can I thank you most sincerely for your generosity and ask that you keep saving any large shoeboxes, unwanted Christmas wrapping paper and hotel toiletries as we are hoping to support the scheme again next year! Many thanks, Sue Turner

.

CHATSWORTH HOUSE CHRISTMASWednesday 13th December 2017

We have arranged a visit to Chatsworth House to see the Christmas decorations in the house, a Dickens theme, and in the grounds. To regulate the numbers in the house there are timed entries for groups, our time is 1.30 pm. We will aim to arrive there in time for coffee giving time to look round outside the house then have lunch before the house entry time. Afternoon tea if you wish, then leave at a time arranged with the driver on the day. The price includes entry to the house; this is £16.50, and the coach travel. The cost is based on a minimum of 30 people travelling and will reduce if there are more. Any savings will be refunded, as usual. I need to pay Chatsworth by 30th November so please send in bookings by that date. Gordon

LUTTERWORTH U3A RAMBLING GROUP SPRING WEEKEND APRIL 27th to 30th 2018

Description and Deposit RequestThe offer this year, again with Macphersons, is for a three night break, Friday to Monday, with bed, breakfast and evening meal at the Headway Hotel, Morecambe. The format will be similar to previous years with walks arranged on the Saturday and Sunday for the Ramblers and sightseeing for short or non-walkers. There will be a break in the journeys up and down as arranged with the driver. The cost, based on a minimum number of 30 participants, will not exceed £220.00 and will reduce if we have more than 40. There are still spaces at the time of writing. There are no single rooms remaining. ALL MEMBERS ARE WELCOME.

CHATSWORTH HOUSE CHRISTMASWednesday 13th December 2017

Name(s)______________________________________ Telephone:___________________________

Address_____________________________________________________________________________

Places @ £31.00 _______ Total Enclosed £_____:_____

Please send your completed form to: Gordon Jones, 34 Macaulay Road, Lutterworth, LE17 4XB

Please make cheques payable to: Lutterworth U3A Social Account

LUTTERWORTH U3A RAMBLING WEEKEND, APRIL 27th to 30th 2018, DEPOSIT

Name(s)________________________ Telephone____________________

Address__________________________________________________________________________

Places _______ @ £50.00 per person Total Enclosed £________

Please send your Form & Payment to: Gordon Jones, 34 Macaulay Rd. Lutterworth, LE17 4XB (01455 556192)Please make cheques payable to: Lutterworth U3A Social Account

Lutterworth U3A Website

https://u3asites.org.uk/lutterworth/home

Type lutterworth u3a into browser search box in Google/Google Chrome/Firefox or OperaChoose lutterworth u3a home from list and click on it.Or enter u3asites.org.uk then select find a u3a – enter lutterworth and click and online site will open (take care not to select wycliffelutterworth )

Click on A (Favourites) and then Add to FavouritesNext time you want to go to our Online site just click on the star B, select Lutterworth u3a home and the page will open. This is the easiest way to get back to the site whenever you want to

You may have noticed that some of the text on the site is underlined or in a different colour. That is to indicate that by pressing ctrl and clicking on the coloured text at the same time (or right button click and select open hyperlink) you jump to more information about it. LinksThe buttons at the top of our online site Welcome page link to individual subjects in order that you may find the information contained on the site quickly. Online pages also contain links to more information e.g. Membership page contains links to a membership form and a data protection summary.HyperlinksA hyperlink is a way to jump quickly to a specific page on the internet without having to type it into a search box. This is particularly useful for you to have a look at places to which visits have been planned, to find out more about them.

When you have finished looking at the additional information either close the page using the x button on the page tab, or the red x on the top right, or press the arrow pointing left at the top left hand side of the page and you will go back to the page you came from.If you want to look at the page again later, before you close it click on the favourites or star button, add it to favourites and it will be easy to get back to by clicking on the yellow star and using the list of saved pages

If you have any problems ask for assistance from family and friends and remember:

“U3A Members, through sharing their knowledge, skills and experience, learn from each other.”

Carmel Kerslake

LUTTERWORTH U3A GROUP MEETINGS – TIMING GUIDEGROUP LEADER TELEPHONE FREQUENCY TIMEMONDAYBuffet Supper Club Gwenda Jones 01455 556923 1st From 7.00 pmTable Tennis Carole Harrington 01455 553438 1st & 3rd 2.00-4.30Music for Fun - Songsters Bill Tomkins 01455 552864 1st & 3rd 10.15Music for Fun - Ukulele Barbara Wilkinson

Peter Sneath01455 553254 2nd & 4th 10-12noon

Handicrafts Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 3rd 2.00-4.00History Group (New) 4th 2.00-4.00TUESDAYReading Group Linda Patton 01455 556996 1st 10.00-12.00Music & Memories Nohline Ruff 01455 556985 1st 2.00-4.00Strolling Group 1 Gwenda Jones 01455 556923 3rd am - variesStrolling Group 2 John Lee 01455 556923 3rd am - varies

3rd Tuesday Walking Gordon Jones 01455 556192 3rd 9.30 onwardShort Walks Group Fay Goodwin

Lyn Foxwell01455 207822 01455 553492

4th 10.00 onwards

Jazz Group Graham Ruff 01455 556985 4th 2.00-4.00Heritage Group Peter Carter 01455 552886 4th 1.00 onwardsLine dancing for Beginners Carole Harrington 01455 553438 4th 2.30-4.00WEDNESDAYPoetry Betty Wilson 01455 209790 1st 2.00-4.001st Wed. Walking Group Roger Watmore

Julian Hargreaves01455 55243101455 557704

1st 9.30 onward

2nd Wed Medium Distance Walking Group Julian HargreavesMike Chapman

01455 55770401455 209972

2nd 9.30 onward

Play Reading Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 2nd 10.00-12.00Scrabble Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 3rd 2.30-5.004th Wed Walking Sue & Peter

Creeden01455 557888 4th 9.30 onward

THURSDAYWhist Drive Glenys Peverley 01455 553614 1st 7pmQuiz Group Sue Jones 01455 556192 2nd 2.00-4.00Wine Appreciation Group Sue Sharp 01455 556255 2nd EveningMusic Appreciation John Peverley

Tony MacDonald01455 553614 01455 553910

3rd 10.00-1200

Lively Discussion Gwenda Jones 01455 556923 3rd 2.00-4.00Art Appreciation Rae Flowerday

Sue Woodhead01455 55694201455 558037

4th 10.00-12.00

FRIDAYBridge Kathy Scott Simons 01455 559945 Weekly 2.00-5.00Ten Pin Bowling Alan Kemp 01455 203009 2nd 10.00-1.00Holidays Group Caren Simpson 01455203554 3rd 10.00Bird Watching Group Rita Nicholls 01455 557412 4th 9.30 onwardVARIOUSGarden Visits Linda Patton 01455 556996 Varies DaytimeTheatre Group June Clayton 01455 209545 Varies Varies

Jean Williamson 01455 209882Pauline Harrison 01455 209064

Days Out Group Gordon & Sue Jones

01455 556192 As Arranged Varies

Singles Takeaway Group June Clayton 01455 209545 Varies EveningSingles Dining Val Howson 01455 552130 Varies VariesGolf Section (Lutterworth & Wycliffe) Peter Moore 01455 552594 As arranged Varies

Always check the online newsletter for possible timing variations. Check with the group leader if you are not sure.