Avanti Magazine - Autumn 2014

THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP AUTUMN 2014 www.csrf.org.uk

MAGAZINE

Autumn Term:

Going back to study

Meditation Explained

FELLOWSHIP HOLIDAY

Join us in April 2015 at Thoresby Hall

Once upon a time The stories behind the fairy tales

PLUS: BOOK CLUB • THEATRE

• GROUP NEWS • POSTBAG • FILMS

contents editor’s letter

4 FRONT DESK

Hello, and welcome to the Autumn issue of avanti.

14 TELLING TALES

News from Fellowship Office and the Chief Executive’s report.

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The enduring fascination of fairy tales.

I don’t know about you, but Autumn always gives me that ‘back to school’ feeling; and in this edition, we’ve picked up on that theme with our ‘Class Act’ feature on page 18, which explores different options for going back to studying later in life. As part of that, we’re proud to welcome ‘Guest Contributor’ and CSRF member Angela Gilder, whose story (and pictures!) of pursuing her dreams to do first a BA and then an MA in Fine Art has inspired us all.

Elsewhere, we’ve roamed far and wide; from the German forests to the world of cyberspace, where new friendships are being constructed. We investigate flu, find out about meditation and tell the story of inventions that sprang out of the First World War. We’re also really pleased to thank the number of members who have sent in their contributions, particularly for our letters page and our ‘Tea Break’ section. We’ll be publishing these in forthcoming issues and do remember that if you’d like to send in your story, we would love to receive it. In the meantime, happy reading!

18 CLASS ACT Going back to study could be the best thing you ever did.

22 WHAT’S ALL THE FUSS ABOUT FLU? Influenza investigated.

26 THE BOUNTY OF WAR Inventions that resulted from the Great War.

30 MEDITATION, MEDITATION, MEDITATION Why have meditation and mindfulness become so popular?

32 VIRTUAL CIRCLE Social media explained.

36 ENTERTAINMENT Staying in or going out, the picks of the Autumn.

41 SOPHIA’S CORNER Sustaining Autumn meals for one.

42 TEA BREAK Jokes, puzzles and tips for protecting local wildlife.

47 POSTBAG Your letters and views.

50 GROUP FOCUS Group reports and news from around the country.

54 THE PLANNER

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published by Square7 Media Ltd, 3 More London Riverside, London SE1 2RE t: 020 3283 4055 e: enquiries@square7media.co.uk www.square7media.co.uk

Find out what your local group is up to.

62 MY FAVOURITE THINGS Martin Carthy’s top choices.

The Civil Service Retirement Fellowship Suite 2, 80A Blackheath Road, London SE10 8DA t: 020 8691 7411 e: info@csrf.org.uk w: www.csrf.org.uk A charity registered in England and Wales No 255465 and in Scotland No SC039049 and a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No 6297479

Publisher: Gaynor Garton e: gaynor@square7media.co.uk Advertising: t: 020 3283 4055 e: adsales@square7media.co.uk Editor: Radhika Holmström Contact the Editor: Use the CSRF address above e: avanti@square7media.co.uk t: 020 8691 7411 Contributors: Angela Gilder, Sally Hall, Sophia Hill, David Porteous, Gareth Southwell Designer: Charlotte Morgan ©2014. avanti Magazine is published by Square7 Media Ltd on behalf of the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship (CSRF). All rights reserved. The CSRF and the publishers declare that any publication of any advertisement does not carry their endorsement or sponsorship of the advertiser or their products unless so indicated. Contributions are invited and, whether or not accepted, submissions will be returned only is accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. No responsibility can be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or while in the publisher’s hands. Proof of receipt is no guarantee of appearance.

In the absence of an agreement, the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographic or artistic belongs to The CSRF. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format (including, but not limited to, any online service, database or part of the internet), or in any other format in any media whatsoever, without the prior written permission of Square7 Media Ltd. The CSRF and Square7 Media accept no liability for the accuracy of the contents or any other opinions expressed herein. The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the official views of The CSRF.

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frontdesk

Fellowship Office Team presents Russell Brown, the outgoing ViceChairman, with a thank you gift for his support during his term of office.

L to R: Sophia Hill, David Tickner, Jean Cooper, Russell Brown, Yvonne Scott, Belinda Stalker, Corriene Bailey

Hello Everyone!

I am writing this following a super AGM on 16 July. I want to take this opportunity to thank all the participants and guests, including Vice-President Peter Jones and the first editor of our national magazine, Derek Kinrade, as well as everyone who took part in the excellent debate. AGMs are rarely exciting but this time our Chairman, John Barker, made the event fun and informative.

We all said a fond farewell to Russell Brown, our Vice-Chairman since 2010.

He has now moved into a very different role, engaging with all civil service departments to promote and seek their support for the work that the Fellowship does. Thank you Russell on behalf of the team here at Fellowship Office. We look forward to working with you over the next 18 months.

A very warm welcome to our new Vice-Chairman, Sue Jarvis, and civil service trade union nominee Ian Albert; we will be featuring both in the Winter edition. We also hope to have news about a new civil service Champion as well.

A special thank you to our outgoing President, Sir Bob Kerslake, for his support. We wish him all the very best.

Baroness Symons has very kindly accepted an invitation to become our Patron. She is only the second Patron we’ve had in the history of the Fellowship and in our next edition we’ll tell you more about her service career and fascinating job as a working member of the House of Lords.

The Board has agreed that the raffle will be launched as a Golden Raffle next year in the Summer issue, which fits neatly into the big push to raise funds in our final year of Golden Fundraising.

We are very grateful to our friends the Civil Service Insurance Society, Warner Holidays, the Civil Service Club and our publisher Square7 Media for agreeing to donate some super prizes, which will be 4

AUTUMN 2014 www.csrf.org.uk

The latest news from Fellowship Office

Chief Executive’s letter Words by Jean Cooper

revealed next year. So do please look out for the raffle books and buy, buy, buy!

In more fundraising news, I’ve recently emptied my Fellowship piggy box and counted more than £30 in gold, silver and bronze loose change. I’d like to say a big thank you to my friends and family who contributed, and urge all of you who haven’t emptied your own piggy boxes to find out how much you’ve stacked up without noticing.

We’ve revived our much travelled ‘Piggles’ too: see the page opposite for more details of its travels in China ‘accompanied’ by Russell Brown and his wife. I’m throwing open a challenge to all ‘Piggles’ owners. Wherever you’re going this Autumn, we’re asking you to take a very happy ‘companion’ with you who doesn’t incur travel costs, is quiet and loves watching the sun rise and set

anywhere in the world.

It’s a fun thing to do, so why not give it a try? We will print as many photos as we can on the website and in future magazines.

Congratulations to our friends at the Civil Service Insurance Society, who won a Most Trusted UK Motor Insurance Provider 2014 at the recent Moneywise awards. Finally, I can’t sign off without saying a great big thank you to the team here at Fellowship Office who’ve worked their socks off to promote the Golden Appeal, the groups who have already organised fundraising events and the Board of Directors who support the Golden Appeal efforts. A very big thank you too to our friends in the Cabinet Office and civil service generally who really do care about the Fellowship and support us so fully.

With all good wishes to our volunteers, supporters and friends,

Out and About Send us your Piggles photos

Making Connections CSRF at the PCS Annual Conference in Brighton this May

Do email any pictures of your own Piggle adventures.

Piggles on Tour

Far afield: Russell Brown took his Piggles all the way to China FROM TOP: Geoff Lewtas and Sophia Hill; Peter Harris MBE and Tony Hazeldine CBE

The Sky’s the Limit: Doreen Beck, Vida Pritchard and Lynn Willan took their Piggles up the London Shard

Many congratulations to Vice-President Roi Milburn who was recently elected Mayor of Ryde.

Welcome

We were delighted to welcome our first departmental Fellowship charity Ambassador last month. Alexander Reynolds, who is on the civil service Fast Stream programme, joined us as a member and is already a trained Visitor on our National Visitors Network.

Visiting HMRC Nottingham

Clara Harmer (left) and colleague

Staff and members at CS Live

Interns Our Intern Alan Aumont (third from right) pictured with members of the Burgess Hill group. Alan was on a one month’s placement from his course at L’INSEEC (business school) in Bordeaux.

Our new intern Tan Tran joined Fellowship Office in July to gain some experience of working in a charity after completing a Master’s in Business Administration.

FROM TOP: Ralph Groves (CSPA), Lisa Ray (CSPA) and CSRF Deputy Chief Executive David Tickner; Delegates at CS Live

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AGM The sixth Annual General Meeting was held from 1pm on Wednesday 17 July at the Civil Service Club, Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HJ Chairman’s opening remarks The Chairman welcomed all company members, observers, Vice President Peter Jones, Chris Furlong, a trustee of CSIS Charity Fund, Gaynor Garton from Square7 Media, Kevin Holliday, Chief Executive of the Civil Service Insurance Society and Derek Kinrade who was the former editor of the first national magazine. He thanked the CSIS Charity Fund for their support of the NVN and CSIS for their support.

The Chairman highlighted the large amount of work being carried out by Fellowship Office. He thanked the Board of Directors for their support and thanked staff at Fellowship Office for their hard work. He informed those present that accountant Richard Hornsby has left Fellowship Office and introduced Tracey Darby, accounts. He introduced Corriene Bailey, the new National Visitors Network Manager, Sophia Hill, PA to the CEO and David Tickner in his formal capacity as Deputy Chief Executive. He also thanked Russell Brown for his work with the Fellowship Office which will continue although he is standing down from his position as Vice Chairman at the formal close of the 2014 Annual General Meeting. Sue Jarvis replaces Russell Brown as Vice-Chair.

The Chairman notified the attendees that the vacant NTUC position on the Board of Directors has been filled

by Ian Albert. He added that Sir Bob Kerslake, CSRF President would soon be standing down and Sir Paul Jenkins, CSRF Champion, has retired. However, CSRF has a new Patron, Baroness Liz Symons of Vernham Dean, who Fellowship Office and the Board of Directors are looking forward to working with.

Finally, he reminded the Branch Representatives that next year is the CSRF’s Golden Anniversary Year which will be celebrated with the holiday and a raffle amongst other events.

There were 37 members present and entitled to vote.

Accounts The company’s accounts for the year ending 31 December 2013, together with the Chairman’s Statement, the Report of

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the Board of Directors and the Report of the Auditors, were presented by the Honorary Treasurer Jenny Rowe CB and were accepted without question.

Auditors It was resolved that Chantrey Vellacott be re-appointed auditors of the company and that the Board of Directors be authorised to fix their remuneration.

Special Resolutions 1. That “Company” be inserted before “Member,” “Members” or “Membership” throughout the Articles except where it is clear from the context or otherwise that any of those terms do not refer to a Company Member as defined in Article 1.1.12.

Carried

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Ordinary Resolutions 1. That Head Office should apply to the National Lottery for a grant to assist the Fellowship as a whole in addition to groups applying to local sources e.g.

Council, Age UK. Carried 2. That the Executive Body look into the possibility of producing a diary which will celebrate our 50th Anniversary or a tie/scarf which members can purchase at a reasonable price; profits to go to central funds.

Lost 3. That, following the Company Member ballot that took place on 3 March 2014 (and carried) to introduce an Associate Member category, the subscription rate for an Associate Member should be set at 80% of the Full Member subscription rate rounded down to the nearest whole pound.

Carried

Directors The following were elected as Directors for 2014-2017: Sylvia Edgell, Tony Hazeldine CBE and Keith Sullens CBE.

Closure After thanking everyone, the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 3pm.

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1: Vida Pritchard (51), Doreen Beck (90), Jean Cooper (CE), Lynn Willan (51); 2: Belinda, Corriene, Jenny Rowe (BD), Tracey Darby (Guest), Gaynor Garton (SQ7); 3: Evelyn George (BD), Victor Johnston (116); 4: Belinda Stalker (FO), Margaret Carter (14); 5: Martin Claridge (BD) and Sylvia Edgell (BD); 6: Peter Jones (VP Guest), Derek Kinrade (Guest), Evelyn George (BD), Russell Brown (BD); 7: Phyllis Duignan (BD), Pat Pearce (22), Sylvia Edgell (BD, John Lloyd (BD); 8: Jim Piercey (35), Jean Cooper (CE); 9: Doreen Beck (90), John Barker (Chairman); 10: Sophia Hill, Tracey Darby, Corriene Bailey, Belinda Stalker, Yvonne Stalker (All FO)

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VOLUNTEERING Corriene Bailey joined CSRF in May as the new National Volunteer Manager. We had a chat to find out a bit about her and her work with volunteers.

How did you become interested in working with volunteers?

I started off as a volunteer myself, working in an Oxfam store in Chelsea more than 10 years ago. I was studying and working part time but I wanted to volunteer as well. My experiences there taught me the importance of volunteers and the impact they can and do have on an organisation’s success. I volunteered there for about a year before going to university.

Why did you decide to work for a charity?

It was at university that my life changed completely. My younger brother had died and that helped to put me on the path I am on now. I questioned life and what was really important and then I realised that I wanted to help others.

After that I decided to find work within an organisation that made a positive difference to people’s lives. I worked first for Trinity Hospice and then for Oxfam, managing and running shops. I’m now so used to the bargains you can discover in charity shops that I find it very difficult to shop in normal shops!

What do you think motivates other people to volunteer?

It’s impossible to make a general rule about why people do it. Everyone has their own motivations, from wanting to meet new people to keeping busy or gaining work. Others do it to alleviate loneliness. Sometimes it’s a person’s main way of getting out of the house.

What did you learn about managing volunteers from your time at Oxfam?

I learned that it’s absolutely crucial to understand why your volunteers are there

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ABOVE: Corriene and Duncan

and to give them the best experience.

It’s hard work doing that but it’s also extremely rewarding. Being able to bring people together is something that I greatly admire in others, whether it’s a group of people or one to one like our volunteer visitors, who are able to make a real difference to our beneficiaries.

Volunteers are the people who really ‘make’ an organisation.

What attracted you to apply for the role of CSRF National Volunteer Manager?

After seven years with Oxfam, I felt I’d done all I could in that area and wanted a new challenge. I liked CSRF; it’s interesting to see how things work in a smaller organisation and the obstacles that they face. When I discovered more about what my role would be and the National Visitors Network I felt that this scheme was really important. It gives

people who (for whatever reason) are feeling lonely and isolated someone to pop in and have a chat. I wanted to get more involved with it.

What challenges do you think you will face?

I’m still finding out how best I can help, especially the people who are feeling isolated. Already, I’ve realised that it’s the weekends that can be the hardest and that those are the biggest challenges.

Finally, what are you looking forward to?

I am excited to meet some of our amazing volunteers! This would also give me the opportunity to share some of our volunteers’ experiences and stories with avanti readers. I feel it’s really important for the readers to understand the impact volunteering has on the beneficiaries, so I will be sharing the stories of people receiving visits as well. I am also looking forward to the next round of training courses, where I’ll be meeting and greeting all of our new volunteers, and welcoming them into the National Visitors Network family.

We also caught up with office volunteer Duncan Packer, who has been helping Corriene. Duncan, could you tell us a bit about your experience of volunteering in Fellowship Office and working with Corriene on the National Visitors Network?

After taking early retirement from the civil service, I wanted to give something back and found this volunteer opportunity at CSRF. I really enjoy working with Corriene and all the team at Fellowship Office. They are such a great bunch of people. It’s good helping to put members in touch with each other and hearing their very positive feedback.

The National Visitors Network Following a successful pilot year, we are delighted to let you know that the Civil Service Insurance Society Charity Fund has confirmed that it is happy to extend the funding of this project for a second year. This means that the National Visitors Network will be expanding to include three more regions (East of England, the Midlands and South West England) and even more people around the UK will be able to benefit from it.

If you live in any of the three new regions, you should have received a

letter giving details of how you can register to receive a visit or volunteer to become one of our Visitors. All Visitors take part in a one day seminar run on our behalf

by Samaritans to equip them with the skills and confidence to carry out home friendship visits.

To find out more about the National Visitors Network call 020 8691 7411 or email visiting@csrf.org.uk (all calls are treated in strictest confidence)

Call for more South East Visitors We now have Visitors operating throughout the South East and London but would like to train more. In particular we are looking for volunteers from East and West Sussex, Kent and Berkshire. If you live in any of these counties then we’d love to hear from you, so why not call us for a confidential chat to find out more about what’s involved?

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T A BU D D Y

NVN trainees on a course in London on 30 June

B E A U D DY B

Want a Buddy, Be a Buddy

In your words The pilot year was a great success and we have learned a great deal.

Here are a few of the comments from you that show just how important the scheme is: “I have been receiving visits for the past five months; we get on and have lots to talk about. It has given me quite a lift. I am most grateful to her and to the Fellowship. I hope your project will continue to do well.”

Philip, Beneficiary

“I am enjoying my new friends!

They are very deserving of a visit as they are both quite unable to go out unaided, so they depend on people visiting them. I find them both able to hold long conversations, and I look forward to my CSRF days very much.”

Heather, trained Visitor

Another great way to make new friendships is to register for our popular Phone Buddy scheme, which is now in its third successful year. If you’re looking for a buddy and would like to receive a call, we can match you up. Our team of buddies provides regular friendship calls and it’s easy to register!

Alternatively, you could volunteer to make calls and become a buddy. It’s a great way to make a new friend without having to leave the comfort of your own home.

Give us a ring on 020 8691 7411 for a friendly chat about the scheme (all calls treated in strictest confidence) or email phonebuddy@csrf.org.uk

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HOLIDAY

GOLDEN HOLIDAY – BOOK NOW!

13 to 17

April 2015

Join us for our Fellowship Golden Jubilee Holiday to Thoresby Hall in Nottinghamshire

SINGLE ROOMS NOW FULLY BOOKED. There are still twin rooms, however, so why not consider sharing a room with a friend?

CSRF at 50 Years:

Hosting a fantastic four night break!

Call the booking line on 0800 072 0772 and quote NBCSRF

(all bookings should be made direct to Warners and not to Fellowship Office) Lines open 9.00 am - 5.30 pm Monday to Friday

This Spring Break will be packed with activities, entertainment and some extra treats just for you. Taking place from 13 to 17 April 2015, prices start from £244 per person with an option to upgrade to even more luxurious accommodation. £30 deposit per person secures your place.

As a CSRF member you can expect: Complimentary welcome drinks reception in the Great Hall.

An exciting Goody Bag and a special free gift!

Ten per cent off all beauty treatments.

ONLY

£30

per person deposit secures your place

Included in your break • F our nights’ half board accommodation.

• A fully packed and varied programme of activities and entertainment.

• Complete access to the leisure club, which includes a large indoor pool, sauna and steam rooms, whirlpool and gym.

• “Thoresby Hall through the years”: a fabulous historical house talk and tour.

• Twitching with the birds and wildlife estate tour.

Dazzling live entertainment, beautiful gardens, daytime activities: Thoresby Hall has it all. You can even treat yourself and relax in our state of the art spa, complete with aromatherapy caves, steam room and hydrotherapy pool. What better way to escape from it all with loved ones and friends?

• Award-winning Blue Room restaurant (supplements apply).

• State of the art spa with indoor heated swimming pool.

• Vast Victorian hall in eclectic style.

• Thoresby Courtyard’s Military Museum, craft shops and garden centre.

For more information visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk *Terms & Conditions: Prices are from per person based on 2 people sharing a Standard room with Simply Dine. All offer breaks apply to new bookings only, are subject to promotional availability which is reviewed daily and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Supplements apply for patios, sea view, suites. Warner Leisure Hotels reserves the right to change or withdraw any offers without prior notice. Full terms and conditions as stated in the current Warner Leisure Hotels brochure apply. All persons in your booking must be aged over 21 years of age. From time to time you may be sent information from Warner Leisure Hotels. If you do not wish to receive such information, please write to the Warner Database Team. Bourne Holidays Limited (trading as Warner Leisure Hotels) is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 01854900 whose registered office is 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL.

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FUNDRAISING E: fundraising@csrf.org.uk

T: 020 8691 7411

Buttercup Badges Our lapel pin Buttercup Badges have proved to be very popular, and we’ve raised £1,139.15 already. The badges, which are made from enamel with detailing in golden metal, stand out on any outfit and look great on both men and women!

Help us sell even more and get closer to our Golden Jubilee target by buying badges for yourself, your family and your friends. The badges were generously sponsored by benenden health, so every penny raised goes

straight to our target of £250,000. Order them directly through your local group, or from Fellowship Office: in which case please enclose an additional £2.50 to include post and packaging.

To order your badges call Fellowship Office: 020 8691 7411, email: info@csrf.org.uk or visit the website: www.csrf.org.uk or order from your local group.

Wear your Buttercup Badge with pride to celebrate 50 years of the Fellowship!

Donations for our Golden Appeal Thank you so much to everyone who has donated so far. You have helped us raise an incredible

£110,211.42

However, we have a lot further to go. To reach our target of £250,000 we still need another £139,788.58. There are loads of ways to donate, all amounts are welcome and we’d appreciate any contribution you are able to make.

Piggy Boxes

Flower cards Our flower cards are continuing to sell well but we still have some available. They make perfect birthday and thank you cards or can be given as a set to friends and family as a small gift.

Each set has five different hand painted flower images, which were kindly produced by CSRF member Jenny Grundy and cost just £4.

To order your cards simply send a cheque made payable to The CSRF and order through your local group or order online at www.csrf.org.uk.

If you have any difficulty, call the Fellowship Office: 020 8691 7411 or email: info@csrf.org.uk

Our piggy donation boxes are an easy and fun way of raising money. They are easy to put together and perfect for loose change.

Once you’ve filled yours, empty it and see how much you’ve got (you’ll be surprised at how much it adds up to!). Then please complete the donation form on the back of the box and send in with a cheque or pay the total online at www.csrf.org.uk.

Remember that if you are a taxpayer you can Gift Aid your donation so the Fellowship benefits from 25 per cent extra money without costing you a penny.

Call: 020 8691 7411 or email: fundraising@csrf.org.uk to get your piggy donation box absolutely free.

Leaving a legacy No-one likes thinking about their will but it makes huge financial sense to you and your loved ones; and on top of that, it makes a big difference to the charities you support. In fact legacies are essential for the Fellowship’s future.

Legacy giving makes it possible for us to support our group network and also to fund the important services available

to our members, such as our National Visitors Network. If you are in a position to leave us one, your kindness and generosity will make a difference to a lot of people. Please do consider it.

It’s also very easy to do. Whether you already have a will or are yet to draw one up, all you need to do is make a very simple addition to your other arrangements to add in CSRF. Your will is completely confidential so you are not obliged to tell us if you do decide to leave a legacy. However, if you do, please let us know. This will mean that

you can say how you would like the money to be spent; and we can also thank you for your greatly appreciated contribution.

To find out more about legacies or how to review your will, call the CSRF Legal Helpline on 0845 1800 939 or email: csrf@mcclure-solicitors.co.uk.

Alternatively you can download the free information sheet on legacies from within the members’ area of the CSRF website or call 020 8691 7411 to request your copy.

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MEMBER BENEFITS

Special Interest Golf Tour 2014 There is still time to sign up for the 2014 Golf Tour taking place at St Pierre, Chepstow Golf and Country Club in South Wales on Thursday 11 September 2014.

If you would like to take part in a light hearted competition and meet with old and new friends, then contact Fellowship Office to register or make further enquiries.

Email: golftour@csrf.org.uk or call: 0208 691 7411

Travel Club

If you’re planning a Winter break, or looking further ahead, don’t forget that as a member of CSRF you could benefit from the great deals we have on offer, courtesy of The UK Holiday Group. There is a huge range of holidays on offer, including Baltic cruises, National and International group holidays and rail tours across Europe, as well as a number of hotels situated around Britain.

Book Club Read all about it and then read some more with our members only Book Club. “I have always been very fond of reading but being a pensioner I rarely buy books, so I look forward to receiving a book every two months,” says Book Club member Rosemary Niven.

If you would like to join our book club or learn more about it, please email: bookclub@csrf.org.uk or call: 020 8691 7411

To find out more, call the dedicated hotline below or email to request more information about the deals on offer.

Call: 0844 264 2422 or email: csrftravelclub@theukholidaygroup. com or post: The CSRF Travel Club, c/o The UK Holiday Group, The Old Bakery, Queens Road, Norwich NR1 3PL

Legal Advice

Helpline

Our legal partner McClures Solicitors provides a legal advice helpline offering advice to all CSRF members. Staff can answer all your questions on legacies, wills, care costs and more. They are also more than willing to come and visit your local Fellowship group to talk on legal matters and answer your questions in person, at no cost to your group.

Call: 0845 1800 939 (weekdays 9am-5pm) or email: csrf@mcclure-solicitors.co.uk

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Theatre Club

You could save more than 70 per cent on the most popular plays, musicals, comedies and attractions with our members only Theatre Club! Indeed, why not add an evening meal or a night in a hotel to make your trip to the theatre even more enjoyable? To find out more, simply log in to the Members area of the CSRF website and click on the Theatre Club links on the bottom right hand side of the home page.

If you have any difficulty accessing the website please call: 020 8691 7411

AUTUMN 2014 www.csrf.org.uk

Photography Competition Many congratulations to CSRF member Malcolm Gibbon, who won this year’s ‘Seasonal Colours’ Photography Competition with his ‘Winter’ themed photograph, see above. There is still time to get your photographs in for the next competition, the theme of which is Travel. The competition is open to all and you could win £200. The deadline for entries is 30 November 2014. Good luck!

For more information about upcoming photography competitions, contact Anthea Graham, Glais Bheinn, Lochcarron, Ross-shire IV54 8YB or email: photography@nhsrf.org.uk or call: 01520 722951

feature : TELLING TALES

Telling Tales

Tim Parker, timparker illustration.com

The enduring fascination of fairy tales

By Gareth Southwell

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hen translations of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm’s Kinderund Hausmärchen (Children’s and Household Tales) first appeared in English, they were considered ‘fairy tales’: stories without factual or educational merit, which only immature, gullible or superstitious minds might take seriously. Yet take a proper look at the Grimms’ collection, or stories by Hans Christian Andersen or Charles Perrault, and it is clear there is often much more to fairy tales.

Morality Tales Certainly, many of the Grimm stories involve the wonderful and the supernatural: magic rings, talking animals, witches and spells (though, ironically, few actual fairies).

Yet they’re also remarkably mundane, detailing the adventures of farmers, merchants and tradesmen, playing out the typical family dramas or hardships that their original audience would have known very well.

A fair number contain no supernatural or fantasy element at all.

At the same time, they’re not exactly soothing bedtime stories either. In fact, it’s this disquieting quality that so many fairy tales share that led the Brothers Grimm to perform their own forms of censorship and rewriting.

In collecting German folk tales from oral sources, they couldn’t resist the temptation to tidy up the narratives, choosing versions they preferred.

After publication, the brothers realised that the stories were being bought by parents to read to their children, so they sanitised and censored subsequent editions to cut out sex and violence (except where it served moral purposes such as punishing villains). They also

emphasised spiritual and religious themes and the message behind each tale.

Deep in the Psyche The Grimms obviously saw the published tales’ primary function and value as moral teaching and guidance, keeping to the spirit of Aesop’s Fables.

Yet even in their retellings the morality becomes quite blurred.

For instance, in their version of ‘Farmer Little’, the farmer of the title cheats and tricks his way to riches but it’s not clear that he’s especially deserving, that those he swindles are guilty of anything more than foolishness, or that their ‘punishments’ are just or fitting. The tale is in a moral grey area that seems to celebrate the pragmatic value of raw cunning over any particular ethical quality.

The background to fairy tales suggests that they aren’t simply vehicles for moral education. As many scholars have noted, fairy tales often seem to share common elements with myths and religious beliefs. A modern collection of fairy tales will often contain stories of the gods and heroes of the Vikings, Greeks or Romans alongside Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella.

One reason for this is that, as Christianity became more powerful and intolerant of other beliefs, these beliefs disappeared underground and were forced to pass themselves off as children’s tales or mere stories or even to disguise themselves as Christian allegory.

Fairy tales share common elements with myths and religious beliefs.

For instance, with their stories of magic cauldrons, the Grail stories of Chrétien de Troyes seem to owe more to Welsh and Irish myths than to any orthodox Christian tradition.

Psychologists have developed their own theories about why we respond so much to fairy tales both as children and adults. Bruno Bettelheim used the theories of psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud to argue that fairy tales foster the child’s emotional and psychological development and persist because they provide a means for children to deal with strange and often overwhelming forces.

Children, Bettelheim believed, are closer to emotion and imagination than reason so fairy tales allow them to explore their fears on their own terms.

Hansel and Gretel, for example, doesn’t teach them that witches don’t exist (the adult, rational answer); instead, it acknowledges the reality of children’s anxieties and encourages them to develop their own coping methods, just as the ingenuity of the children of the tale allowed them to trick the witch into her own oven.

Carl Jung argued that common elements between religion, myth and fairy tale suggest an even deeper link.

The reason, he said, that we can find the same motifs in Japanese folk tales, the allegories of alchemists, the dreams of psychoanalytic patients and so on is that they share the same source: the human mind. Each individual seeks psychological wholeness to resolve the conflicts between the conscious and unconscious mind.

Therefore, while everyone makes their own personal journey toward this goal, there will also be common landmarks (what Jung termed ‘archetypes’) representing common experiences and forces that the individual must face (dragons to slay, temptations to face).

Fairy tales are part of this universal human journey.

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Fairy tales are also social documents, embodying the cultural attitudes of their time and place towards class, race, gender and age. A more recent, critical approach has sought to analyse the biases underlying popular tales: should we, for instance, really teach young girls that their only hope of happiness lies in rescue by a handsome prince?

As a result, more recent retellings have turned some of the originals on their heads. Angela Carter’s brilliant short story collection The Bloody Chamber revisits popular fairy tales, sometimes providing a new twist and at other times highlighting the prejudices beneath the familiar surface. Others have taken a more sardonic view, like James Finn Garner’s Politically Correct Bedtime Stories.

Slowly, even Hollywood has cottoned on, abandoning the tired stereotypes of wicked stepmothers and brave knights.

In the Shrek films, the ogre is the hero,

while in Brave a feisty heroine escapes an arranged marriage to pursue adventure. Films like Mirror Mirror and Snow White and the Huntsman have played with the originals considerably, while this Summer’s Maleficent puts a different spin on Sleeping Beauty.

Whether told or retold, one of the reasons why fairy tales persist is that they tap into enduring themes, containing common elements that can be updated and recast in the language and concerns of the current age. In fact, today’s revised versions have echoes of the first stories before they were edited and ‘improved’.

Fairy tales have always been rich and diverse. For every helpless damsel in distress, there is a courageous and resourceful young girl using nothing but her own cunning to outwit a ravenous wolf. If modern film and literature are rediscovering the rich potential of fairy tales it is partly because such richness has always been there.

Disney’s Retellings Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (1937) Disney’s first full-length animated feature is rather different from the original. In the Grimms’ version, the dwarves are not named or characterised, the wicked queen tries three times to murder Snow White (in the film it’s only once), Snow White awakens as the apple core is dislodged from her throat (in the film it’s with ‘love’s first kiss’) and the queen dances to death in red hot shoes of iron at Snow White’s wedding (in the film she is chased off a cliff and struck by lightning).

Alongside other cuts to the original, the overall result is much softer.

Sleeping Beauty (1959) Disney’s version used Perrault and the Grimm Brothers, who themselves drew on 17th century Italian poet Giambattista Basile, adapter of the original folk tale.

In the film, the role of the wicked witch Maleficent is extended: not only does she curse the princess (in Basile, the spell is merely prophesied) but she also

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Read more: The Complete Fairy Tales (Vintage Classics, 2007, translated

by Jack Zipes) The Hard Facts of the Grimms’ Fairy Tales, Maria Tatar (Princeton University Press, 1990) The Uses of Enchantment: The Meaning and Importance of Fairy Tales, Bruno Bettelheim (Vintage, 2010).

Jung and the Story of Our Time, Laurens Van Der Post (Vintage Classics, 2010) The Bloody Chamber, Angela Carter (Vintage, 2012)

sees it through (in Perrault and Grimm, the woman operating the spinning wheel is a hapless instrument of fate). In later scenes, Maleficent transforms into a dragon to fight the young prince who defeats her with the help of the good fairies and the Sword of Truth (a departure from all original sources). Following a mixed critical reception to the film, Disney didn’t make another animated fairy tale until The Little Mermaid 30 years later.

The Little Mermaid (1989) In Hans Christian Andersen’s original, the mermaid sells her voice to the Sea Witch in return for human legs, thus better to pursue marriage to a human prince with whom she has fallen in love. However, he marries another and in despair the mermaid throws herself into the sea and dissolves into foam. She is ultimately consoled with being given a human soul.

However, it is still a far cry from the rosy ending of the Disney version where prince and mermaid sail away together into the sunset having defeated the Sea Witch and regained the mermaid’s voice.

IMAGES: PICSELECT

Tales Retold

feature : CLASS ACT

Thinking of going back to school? Experts agree it’s a great idea and CSRF member Angela Gilder encourages us all to follow our dreams

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N

o matter how many decades have passed since you last walked out of school or college, September still has a ‘back to school’ feel about it. For many people who are no longer in full time work, it’s the ideal time to take the plunge and start (or continue) studying something that has always interested them. Are you one of them?

Classrooms are now very different from since the days of pencils and blackboards: many are now equipped with the latest hi tech equipment. So has the teaching style changed, at least for adults: more discussion, more listening and positively no detentions.

Most importantly, the number of opportunities open to you have increased. You can retrain completely, or you can do a full time degree course, an old style evening class, a weekend course, an intensive short course or distance learning.

The best way to keep our brains in order is by challenging them.

The subjects on offer have broadened too, with everything from wine appreciation to cartoon drawing. If you’re interested, there really is no reason not to give it a go.

Yes You Can One big concern is that we just can’t learn as effectively as we get older.

Don’t let this worry you to the point where you never try in the first place!

Learning is not always as easy, certainly, but on the other hand neuroscientists are discovering that the brain is a lot less ‘fixed’ than we used to think.

Indeed, Professor Dilip Jeste of the University of California argues that not only can older brains learn but they do so in a more balanced way.

“The elderly brain is less dependent on the brain chemical dopamine, making people less impulsive and controlled by emotion. Probably the most exciting breakthrough in the last decade has been the discovery that neuroplasticity, the ability to generate neurones and synapses, continues

throughout an individual’s life.”

“The brain is plastic and continues to change, not getting bigger but allowing for greater complexity and deeper understanding,” adds Professor Kathleen Taylor of St Mary’s College of California, who specialises in adult learning.

In fact, she argues, the best way to keep our brains in good order as we get older is to push the boundaries and engage with new ways of thinking. “If you always hang around with those you agree with and read things that agree with what you already know, you’re not going to wrestle with your established brain connections.”

From Cooperative to Conventional Some of the learning options out there are specifically tailored to older people.

In particular, there’s the University of the Third Age (U3A) for people no longer in full time employment.

U3A is rather different from many of the others because it really is about ‘learning for pleasure’. There is no accreditation or validation; instead, local ‘learning cooperatives’ around the UK are run by volunteers, teaching and sharing skills and knowledge in more than 300 different subjects.

The Open University (OU) is another option that many older people think of, with its combination of distance learning, classes and residential courses.

“Last year we celebrated our oldest ever graduate with 93 year old Clifford Dadson collecting his degree, which just goes to show that age is no barrier to learning,” says Keith Zimmerman, the OU’s Director of Students.

However, plenty of other colleges have as much provision, or more, for older students. “About 30 per cent of our students are over 50. There’s an amazing mix of people coming together and sharing ideas and knowledge,” says Liora Ives, Vice Principal of the City Lit centre for adult learning.

“The thing that strikes me is that people who’ve not been in education for a long time feel quite relaxed. A lot of people come to start a whole new direction, perhaps having retired from their main profession and want to start in a different one.

“People come alive and engage and they’re also meeting people from all backgrounds and sharing their knowledge. In this environment you’re learning from the tutor but that’s not all because you are also sharing your ideas.

Everyone is contributing their own life experiences and adding to the course and the overall learning.”

There’s also no reason to rule out universities, either for a first or a further degree, if that is what you’re set on.

“I’ve congratulated many older students on their academic achievements at graduation ceremonies over the years,” says Professor David Latchman, Master of Birkbeck College at the University of London.

“I find this a great group to work with,” adds Dr Janet Smithson of the University of Exeter. “They’re very keen and motivated and full of ideas; and they tend to have the time and energy to do the work well. In fact I learn a lot from them.”

The Other Benefits Added to all of this, studying with other people is a very good way to make new connections: not just friends but also people you enjoy working with and learning from.

“Studying for the over 60s is beneficial for many reasons,” Latchman points out. “Learning in your older years keeps your brain active and discussing ideas and socialising is an important part of the university experience. It’s a good way to tackle the spectre of isolation, loneliness and depression.”

“There are lots of studies on the health benefits of learning; physically, socially and also mentally,” Ives concludes. “It’s incredibly enriching, learning, and it’s great to see older learners thrive.”

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“It’s never too late to follow your dream” CSRF member Angela Gilder from Saffron Waldon tells us her story

M

ore years ago than I care to admit, as a young girl about to be launched into the world of work, I was faced with the inevitable question: “What do you want to do when you leave school?” My answer was: “I want to be an artist” as I’d always loved art at school and doing anything creative.

However, that would have meant going to art school and this was the 1950s, when money was tight and my ambitions were severely disapproved of. I was told not to be silly and think of something more sensible: “Get a nice respectable job in an office or bank.”

I ended up working as a junior clerk with a local business, before moving into a job in the civil service, where I stayed for the rest of my working life. Family and domestic commitments meant I didn’t have much leisure time, but I did manage to keep on with my painting and drawing, first in evening classes, and then as an amateur artist, occasionally exhibiting my work in local exhibitions.

Eventually, as my retirement drew near, there were fewer home demands.

Also, sadly, I had been widowed two years earlier. I made up my mind that this could be my big opportunity for a new start.

I began to attend part time art classes once again and in 2004, I was accepted

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as a mature student on the Foundation course in Art and Design at Cambridge Regional College.

Initially, I had not intended to go beyond Foundation level but I was encouraged to move on to study for a Bachelor’s degree. I had become interested in printmaking and was accepted by the Cambridge School of Art at Anglia Ruskin University to take the BA (Hons) Fine Art Printmaking course.

For the next three years, I enjoyed studying printmaking techniques as well as drawing, photography, digital imaging and art history. It was stimulating and challenging, often taking me out of my comfort zone. I learned new skills, researched and wrote dissertations and took part in group seminars.

Studying for a degree really stretched me, and at the end I marvelled at what I was able to achieve. The course was rounded off with a graduation show in the university’s beautiful Ruskin Gallery and another show at the Old Truman Brewery in Brick Lane, London.

It was an exciting time for everyone involved and I was thrilled to be showing my work in London. I couldn’t have imagined it just a few years earlier.

However, this wasn’t the end. After a 12 month break, and missing university life, I launched myself onto the Master’s degree course in printmaking, once again at Cambridge School of Art, part time over a period of three years.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Colliery Study; Screen mono print; Studies of Chatterley Whitfield.

The Master’s course was hugely absorbing and stimulating, working alongside other artists from different artistic backgrounds and with a diversity of styles and ideas. I was able to use the printmaking techniques I’d learned on the BA course to experiment and express ideas, concentrating on

Don’t forget about the Civil and Public Artists Society, which welcomes artists from the civil and public sector.

It can be contacted on 07534 991021, or through the website at www.artatcpsa.org.uk

the art I was producing rather than the techniques themselves.

My final project, which was assessed and exhibited in the Master’s graduation show, was inspired by the disused Chatterley Whitfield Colliery near Stoke on Trent. When I visited the colliery, I was fascinated by the machinery and equipment, now redundant, silent and left to decay. I was deeply moved by the dank, empty buildings, once humming with life and industry but now abandoned and taken over by nature.

Using a selection of the photographs I had taken during the visit, I produced a

set of photographic etchings and screen prints. After the Master’s graduation show, I travelled to Staffordshire once again with a collection of the prints, which I presented to the Friends of Chatterley Whitfield, a group of retired miners who had worked at the colliery until it closed in the 1970s.

It was a tremendous thrill and privilege for me to meet up with the miners and their families and I continue to keep in touch with them even now.

Although I undertook the BA and Master’s degree courses to discover new skills and experiences, I was very proud to take part in the Master’s graduation ceremony alongside my fellow graduates. In retrospect, those years of study and effort were probably some of the happiest and most fulfilling of my life and well worth the many hours of hard work and the late nights.

It had been a long journey from the young girl who had dreamed of becoming an artist all those years ago, to the retired civil servant, mother and housewife returning to full time education and at last making the dream a reality.

I hope I will be able to continue with my art work for a few more years and, if anyone else is thinking of venturing out to do something similar, I hope my experience will encourage them. It’s never too late to follow your dream!

Ed’s note: We’d love to hear from any other readers who’ve returned to study in retirement!

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BIG ISSUE:

what’s all the fuss about

FLU

It’s more than just a nasty cold, but there’s also a lot you can do to protect yourself against influenza

B

y the end of 1918, the First World War had ended; but the deaths still went on.

By the end of 1919, 50 million more people were dead: far more, in fact, than the numbers killed in the war itself. The culprit? Influenza, more commonly known now as ‘flu’.

Most of the time flu isn’t nearly this lethal. None of the pandemics that have swept the world in the ensuing century have inflicted damage on this scale. Yet it’s worth remembering that flu has this record and that it’s certainly not just a bad cold.

This is why vulnerable groups (including anyone with asthma and people aged over 65) are now offered an annual flu vaccination free on the NHS from Autumn onwards and why

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high street pharmacists offer a cheap vaccine to anyone else who wants to be protected against the disease.

The Virus If you’re more used to coping with the normal run of winter coughs and colds, it’s quite surprising how bad flu can make you feel. The flu virus is made up of many different strains, all of which mutate every year.

The strains themselves fall into three categories, A, B and C. A is the most

serious, B less so and C is relatively mild (this is the type that can genuinely resemble a nasty cold). When it’s taken hold, the virus grows (rather revoltingly) in the soft, warm surfaces of the nose, throat, sinuses, airways and lungs, which is why the symptoms include headaches, sneezing, coughing and a sore throat. With the more serious strains most people also get a high temperature, chills, aching muscles and/or exhaustion, as the body reacts to the virus hitting the immune system.

A New Pandemic?

A new pandemic might arise pretty quickly, flu expert Professor John Oxford warns.

“The movement of people is stupendous.

In many countries poultry (which can be a conduit for flu) outnumbers people,” he says.

“We touch other people more than we used to and hygiene has deteriorated. All these things mean that viruses, especially airborne ones, can start moving quickly. So what we need is to be prepared, ready to put up all our defences, from vaccines to antivirals to closing schools.”

Under fives get it too

All two and three year olds in the UK (except those with egg allergies or severe asthma) are now eligible for a free dose of the flu vaccine, though this isn’t injected using a needle but squirted up the nose.

Most years there are one or two strains of category A in circulation and it can take a few weeks even for fit and healthy adults to recover fully. The older we get, the harder it usually hits us too. In fact, Professor John Oxford of Queen Mary, University of London, says that in the US, people are considered at greater risk of coming down with a nastier case once they reach 50. By the time we’re around 80, flu really can knock us for six.

“When you’re older you’re going to get worse symptoms and it’s going to take longer to recover; and then you can more easily get a bacterial infection that results in bacterial pneumonia. I’ve known people who took a year to get over it,” says Oxford.

Egg Exemption

Some forms of flu vaccine are made using egg, so people with an egg allergy should talk to their GP first. There are egg free variants available and it may also be possible to be referred to a specialist to have the vaccination in hospital, for people who need specialist help in case they develop a serious reaction.

Medication Because it’s a viral infection, antibiotics won’t work as they only fight bacteria.

The two main antiviral treatments available are Tamiflu and Relenza.

A major study published earlier this year found that both drugs shorten the symptoms of illness by about half a day in adults, especially if they’re used as a

Prevent flu from developing in the first place by getting vaccinated.

preventative measure (taken in advance rather than when the symptoms have already started to show).

However, there was no evidence that either drug stopped people passing on the virus. In addition, Tamiflu has potential side effects including nausea and kidney problems.

Yet Oxford is firmly of the view that older people in particular should go on receiving antivirals if they come down with flu. “They aren’t saving everyone but they’re saving a significant number,” he says.

Professor Wendy Barclay, who researches the influenza virus at Imperial College London, is also of the view that “Tamiflu works as well as any drug we have now or that’s on the cards”. However, others disagree.

“We’ve stuck to our guns and continued to recommend against using these drugs,” says GP Dr James Cave, who edits the main medicines guide Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin.

Vaccination Where the experts agree is that it’s far better to prevent flu from developing in the first place by getting vaccinated.

A vaccination won’t provide a 100 per cent guarantee but it still offers very good coverage.

“There are two ways of cutting flu rates,” says Dr Marc Baguelin of the Health Protection Agency and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. “One is by protecting people directly; the other is by reducing the number of people passing it on.

Vaccination does both. So you’re

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Looking after yourself

If you do come down with flu, the best tactics are rest, fluids and over the counter painkillers (if you need them, though do check if they need to be taken on a full stomach). Younger, healthy people aren’t advised to see their GP but if you are older and feel concerned, do make an appointment.

Your GP may prescribe one of the antiviral drugs and will also be able to prescribe antibiotics if you develop a bacterial infection.

not just protecting the individuals, you’re protecting all the other people they’d otherwise infect.”

Each year, the flu vaccine is reformulated. In fact, two vaccines are reformulated: one for the northern hemisphere and one for the southern hemisphere. There is a network of about 120 ‘flu laboratories’ around the world, collecting samples, analysing them and sending information to the regional labs (there are about 10 of these), which in turn report to the main labs. One of those World Health Organization (WHO) ‘collaborating centres’ is in Mill Hill, North London.

Twice a year, specialists meet at the WHO’s headquarters in Geneva to agree which three strains are most threatening in the two hemispheres and should go into the vaccine. Even if the strains are the same as the previous year’s (as they often are) the vaccine still has to be reformulated. This is

Double protection On top of the flu vaccine, people over 65 are recommended to have a pneumococcal vaccine to protect against pneumonia and similar infections. “It’ll last 10 years,” explains Oxford.

“The influenza vaccine will seriously reduce the risk of getting pneumonia in the first place but the combination is very useful.” The only side effect you might get is a sore arm, so it’s well worth doing.

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because the virus changes so quickly and a strain will have developed subtle differences which our bodies wouldn’t respond to. The manufacturers go to work after that.

One Jab to Cure them All On top of that, researchers are exploring different options for developing a universal vaccine. “The problem with flu is that you’ve got lots of different strains and they keep changing,” says Professor Adrian Hill of the Jenner Institute in Oxford.

“Occasionally one comes out of wildfowl or pigs and we’re not immune to it. We need new vaccines and we can’t make them fast enough.” A vaccine that provides some defence against a new threatening strain would be extremely useful. Even if it didn’t provide total cover, it would offer some protection while scientists develop a vaccine that targets the specific strain.

However, a universal vaccine is still a good way off and even when one is developed it’ll probably be used as an emergency measure if a new pandemic arises, while the current vaccines are kept in use.

Keep Safe For most of us, flu is still something that hits us, and hits us badly: but we do get over it. For a few, it’s worse than that. You may still decide against vaccination but in that case please think about other measures that will help to keep your risks down. We’re not expecting a repeat of 1918 any time soon but it’s best to keep on the safe side.

Now wash your hands

One of the most effective ways to cut down the risk of catching or passing on flu is also the simplest: handwashing.

According to the Health Protection Agency, this is the most important method for preventing and controlling infection in general. There’s no need to do it obsessively but keeping your hands clean (with soap and hot water if possible or antibacterial washes if you’re out and about) will immediately reduce the number of germs in circulation.

talk to us

Hot lemon and honey?

Vinegar and brown paper?

Do write in and tell us any cold or flu remedies your parents always swore by!

feature : BOUNTY OF WAR

the bounty of

WAR

Necessity being the mother of invention, the First World War brought about advances in weapons, explosives and mass production. It also spawned new developments, from the airliner to the zip, that have had a lasting and beneficial impact on the post-war world. David Porteous looks at a few of the groundbreaking innovations and discoveries that resulted from the First World War.

The Wristwatch Wristwatches had been invented before the First World War but they only became the norm for telling the time after the conflict. Up until then, it was common and fashionable for those men who could afford a watch to keep it in their pocket on a chain and flip it open.

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The wristwatch came into its own in combat. Soldiers needed to tell the time to synchronise attacks and artillery barrages.

They also needed their hands free to fire weapons and handle equipment. Pilots, similarly, needed to keep both hands on the controls of their flimsy aircraft.

Having been proven in the heat of battle, the convenience of wristwatches ensured their use would take off dramatically in subsequent years.

Stainless Steel The knives and forks we use every day to eat our meals originate from the demand from British generals for a better metal for manufacturing guns, after gun barrels were being distorted from the friction and heat of repeatedly firing bullets and shells.

Harry Brearley, a metallurgist working in the ‘steel city’ of Sheffield, took up the challenge and began to search for harder alloys. Around 1913, thinking that his first experiments adding chromium to steel were failures, he threw them onto the scrap heap in the yard.

Later on he later noticed (or so the legend goes) that these samples had not rusted or corroded. In fact, he had discovered the secret of ‘rustless’ or stainless steel. His product made a major contribution to the war effort and revolutionised the metallurgy industry and the modern world.

Blood Banks Blood transfusions of some type or other date back to the 15th century and by the First World War blood transfusions were a routine way of treating wounds. However, they had to be done directly from donor to recipient, which was impossible on the battlefield.

Disturbed by reports of soldiers dying from blood loss, doctors at Rockefeller University Hospital developed a formula for preserving blood by preventing it from coagulating. In 1917, Captain Oswald Robertson went to Belgium with the US Army

The wartime invention of the blood bank has saved millions of lives worldwide.

Medical Corps to try the technique on the battlefield. Finding blood donors among camp personnel, he performed many life saving transfusions.

His ice chest stocked with flasks is credited as the world’s first blood bank and surely the first mobile one. It’s an invention that has gone on to save millions of lives worldwide.

The Safety Razor Many inventions and technologies were not invented to meet a specific need of World War One but only became fully established as a direct result of their use during the conflict.

The safety razor was devised in 1895, was perfected and patented by 1901 and went on sale in 1903, although early sales were disappointing. King Camp Gillette’s company sold only 51 razors in its first year.

However, when the US entered the war it ordered nearly four million safety razors and 36 million blades for its armed forces. Far more popular with the troops in the trenches than the traditional cut throat razor, sales of the safety razor soared around the world.

Air Traffic Control In the early days of aviation, the only way for a pilot to communicate with the ground or other aircraft was by hand signals or flares. Even if they shouted, crew members found it hard to understand each other in open cockpits over the noise of an aircraft’s engines.

The answer lay in radio technology.

The US army installed the first operational two way radios in

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A Golden Age in the Skies The period between the First and Second World Wars is often referred to as the Golden Age of aviation and is perhaps the best example of a ‘peace dividend’. The very first passenger service of the postwar era was launched in February 1919, just four months after the Armistice, by a fledgling German carrier that would later form part of Lufthansa.

These pioneer airlines used converted bombers or reconnaissance aircraft and passengers occupied the seats that would once have been used by an observer or bomb aimer. Just like wartime aircrew, they wore helmets, goggles and flying overalls as they were totally exposed to the elements. In the Handley Page O/11 aircraft, a converted two engine bomber, passengers sat in seats in the open bow, giving them a breathtaking view.

The first successful nonstop Atlantic crossing was made in June 1919, by two British airmen, Captain John Alcock and Lieutenant Arthur Whitten Brown, who flew a modified Vickers Vimy bomber. Their flight

planes during the Great War. By 1916 technicians could send a radio telegraph over a distance of 140 miles.

In 1917, a human voice was transmitted by radio from a plane in flight to an operator on the ground for the first time. Helmets with built in microphones and earphones were also developed.

The basic elements of air traffic control were in place, helping to trigger the rapid postwar expansion of civil aviation (see panel above).

Detergent The first commercially available synthetic detergent was produced in Germany in 1916 to alleviate

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from Newfoundland to Galway, Ireland, lasted 16 hours and 27 minutes. This and many other record breaking feats by aviators, many of whom had fought in the Great War, underlined the potential of long distance passenger transport.

Manufacturers soon started to design and produce custom built passenger aircraft with interior cabins inside, in which travellers sat on wicker chairs. The first inflight movie was shown to passengers in 1925 (silent films were ideal for screening in what were still quite noisy environments). Standards of comfort and safety became ever higher and passenger numbers grew year by year. Civil aviation, little more than a hobby for rich enthusiasts before the war, had been transformed into a global industry.

wartime shortages of soap, which had previously been made from natural fats. The artificial soap enabled water to penetrate the fibres of clothing and wash away the dirt. This prototype detergent was developed further after the war had ended. In the early 1920s British manufacturer Unilever launched Lux soap flakes and Vim scouring powder, which quickly became household mainstays.

The Zip As the chief designer at the Universal Fastener Company, Gideon Sundback, perfected the ‘hookless fastener’ in his quest to find a better way of fastening clothes together. This was a slider that locked two sets of teeth together: the world’s first zip.

When World War One broke out, the US military, particularly the Navy, incorporated them into uniforms and boots. In service, it soon proved popular as a convenient way to fasten clothes and keep out the cold. After the war, it was rapidly adopted by manufacturers, initially for sports clothing and women’s dresses and later for the flies of men’s trousers.

If the mention of blood banks has inspired you to consider becoming a donor, find out more from the NHS Blood and Transplant Service on 0300 123 23 23 or www.blood.co.uk. You can give blood if you are: • aged up to 66, whether or not you have donated before • between 67 and 70 and you have donated in the past • aged over 70 and you have donated blood in the past two years.

In order to donate you’ll need to weigh over 7 stone 12 lbs (50kg) and be fit and healthy. If you have a heart condition, or are on a hospital waiting list, you cannot donate, unfortunately.

feature : MEDITATION

Meditation,

Meditation,

Meditation Meditation has become mainstream. How did that happen and can it really change lives?

O

nce upon a time, meditation was an extreme, fringe activity, along with yoga.

Today, yoga classes are on offer at fitness studios, church halls and community centres around the UK and meditation is mainstream. In particular, the practice of ‘mindfulness’ is everywhere. How did meditation get to be so popular and how is it helping people?

People meditate for different reasons, and in different ways: to clear their minds, to focus their attention or to find a sense of inner peace or spirituality.

Generally, though, the aim can be summed up as more clarity, tranquillity and mental balance.

Mindfulness and meditation are not just a popular quick fix either; they are also a treatment for mental health

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problems, with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommending that GPs prescribe cognitive behavioural therapy based on mindfulness. There is some scientific evidence that meditation actually changes the brain structures, strengthening the connections between brain cells.

From Ancient to Modern Scholars who work on the history of meditation trace its origins back to India, Tibet, China and Japan, intertwined with religion (mainly Buddhism and Hinduism) and yoga. We tend to assume today that it became popular in the west as hippie travellers (including the Beatles) discovered it and brought it back but in fact the interest has been there longer, explains

Dr Véronique Altglas of Queen’s University Belfast. “From the romantic 19th century onwards, there’s been an interest in the idea of a mystical tradition that leads to a purer, higher truth,” she says.

It’s really over the past 50 years, though, that meditation has gone from fringe to mainstream. Today, there’s a full range of meditative practices and meditation based techniques. Most are based on the idea of stillness and silence: reaching inside the self and focusing on the moment.

‘Focused’ meditation uses an object (such as a flower or candle flame) to bring the mind back to a central point. Visualisation also uses images but ones that the meditator creates in their own mind. Guided meditation adds in a voice (either live or recorded)

to the visualisation, taking the person through a scene such as a forest or a lake. Prayerful meditation maintains the link with spiritual practices. Not all meditations are static either; the link with yoga still stands, while Chinese arts such as t’ai chi and chi gung use meditation too.

Transcendental Meditation (TM) is also surging back in popularity from its heyday in the 1970s.This involves repeating a specific word or phrase (mantra) given to by the TM teacher with the aim of increasing energy, lowering stress levels and helping develop concentration. TM is practised

by Oprah Winfrey, Paul McCartney and film director David Lynch among others. There’s even a free school in Skelmersdale, in Lancashire, based on TM teachings and another scheduled to be set up in Suffolk in September 2014.

Mindfulness Ahead of them all, there’s mindfulness.

Although the mental and psychological benefits of other forms of meditation are also being researched (with TM supporters citing quite a bit of recent research), mindfulness is the one that has gained mainstream psychological approval.

Mindfulness has its roots in Buddhist thought. “Mindfulness is really a form of awareness,” explains Mark Williams, Emeritus Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Oxford. “It’s cultivated by meditation, which is really mental training in paying sustained attention,

intentionally and moment by moment and without judgment to what is going on inside your mind and body and on the outside.”

He continues: “Often it’s quite difficult to focus our attention. We’re distracted a lot, and there’s nothing wrong with that but sometimes our minds are on automatic pilot. That can take our thoughts in directions where we don’t want them to go. While our thoughts are wandering, we miss the small beauties and pleasures in life because we take them for granted. Meditation is a way to give you more training, and more control, over what your mind is doing and where it’s going.”

Williams points out that several big studies have demonstrated that mindfulness can make a genuine difference. Nor do you have to do it for huge long stints every day. “About 10 minutes twice a day will show you some benefits,” he says. “Little and often is good. Evidence is building up that it does work.” However, if you are worried about your mental health do please make a GP appointment as well.

Is It For You? Meditation is quite a personal thing.

Some find that mindfulness makes their minds whir, or that visualisation sends them to sleep but that they get a lot out of a different type of meditation. What’s clear, though, is that for many people a few minutes’ mental investment is making a huge difference.

Press M for Meditation If you’ve got the right gadget, there’s a way you can use it for 21st century meditation. You can download a meditation podcast to use on an MP3 music player or download a ‘walking meditation’ app onto a smart phone. If you have internet access, you can sit at a computer or tablet and be taken on a ‘guided meditation’ around a virtual scene of your choice (you can even take a ‘virtual tour’ of JRR Tolkien’s Shire or Rivendell).

talk to us

Whether you’ve been meditating for years, or this feature has inspired you to give it a go, do let us know. Don’t forget our request for photos of the group meditation exercise we gave you in the last avanti either!

Find out more about mindfulness at www.bemindful.co.uk or www.getsomeheadspace.com (unfortunately both only online).

Find out more about TM at http://uk.tm.org/home or on 01695 51213.

Find out more about yoga, and registered teachers in your area, at the British Wheel of Yoga at www.bwy.org.uk or on 01529 306851.

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feature : VIRTUAL CIRCLE

Virtual Circle Social media today offers lots of different ways to keep in touch. Which ones are worth trying?

How to Get Started If you have a computer, a tablet or a smart phone, getting started with social media is easy. Head for the application’s home page and it will take you through the process, usually in just a few steps. Most are free but do pay attention to ‘Staying Safe, Keeping Confidential’ (page 35) and make sure you have organised the privacy settings the way you want them.

If your access to a computer is limited, you might want to consider buying something that will help you keep in touch with loved ones. If you only want one device, a smart phone is probably your best bet, as you can use it as a mobile telephone and tablet computer all in one.

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Facebook (www.facebook.com)

Particularly popular with: People with family and friends all over the world.

What: This is an online social networking community that can help you keep in touch with friends and family.

You can post news and comments, photos and videos and see those of people in your network. You can also comment on other people’s posts and see comments their friends have made.

How: Head to the home page. It is very quick and easy to sign up.

However, before you even start, have a think about who you want to see your information. It’s best to have a ‘private’ profile, so that only people you have chosen will be able to see your information and what you say.

If you choose a public profile, anyone can see your information, which includes where you live and your age and sex (though you do not have to enter that information at all if you prefer not to).

Do: Use it like you’ve always used the telephone, to keep in touch and share news. It’s a virtual round robin Christmas card.

Don’t: Use it to express extreme views as this can quickly lead to others ‘unfriending’ you (to use the Facebook lingo).

Twitter

Skype

(www.twitter.com)

(www.skype.com)

Particularly popular with: People who

Particularly popular with:

What: Twitter is a fast moving, dynamic

What: Skype has several

like you to know what they are thinking (often all the time!).

medium that restricts what you say to 140 characters. It is used to share information, for businesses to announce new products and to share breaking news. However, a brief visit will also show you that many people use it to express their every waking thought, which can be tedious!

How: When you open an account, you’ll need to choose a Twitter name, prefaced by the @ symbol. That’s also how you search for people you’d like to follow. Start by following friends and family, and then add your favourite newspaper and news sources (@guardian.co.uk or @Telegraph or @BBCBreaking) and people you find interesting. Be aware that some people set up fan or spoof accounts so you may not be following the real person! Follow a few and if they annoy you, simply ‘unfriend’ them.

What’s a hashtag? The # sign is used in two ways: to search for a popular topic or something that is ‘trending’ and as a way of saying something the user thinks is amusing, such as #justsaying. Don’t put spaces after your hashtag as this is considered to be very uncool!

Do: Have fun and play around.

Don’t: Say anything defamatory, intimidating or libellous.

LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com)

Particularly popular with: People who like to keep in touch professionally.

What: This is a more formal forum, mainly used by people who’re still keeping their hands in with some kind of work (paid or unpaid) or research. It’s also a good way to keep up with former colleagues you might not want to befriend on the more informal Facebook.

How: Sign up using your regular

email, and choose a password.

There’s a fairly comprehensive free site, or you can sign up for ‘premium content’ (though this is more useful for serious job hunters!). You’ll be asked to add details of the different places where you have worked; you can make this as basic or as elaborate as you like, from a straightforward list to a full CV. Once you’ve signed up, start to add contacts by inviting people whose email addresses you already know: or you can choose to give the service access to your own email contacts list to invite people you already know.

Do: Use it to keep in touch with the world of work.

Those who like to call rather than email; those who love a bargain.

services. Free ones include instant messaging, which allows members to phone individuals or a group of up to 25 people. If you’re out, Skype will take a message. You can share your computer’s screen with another member, so if you have a computer problem, your technologically savvy friend may be able to help you out. You can share files such as photo albums with your contacts.

How: Sign up for free and use

your computer’s microphone and speaker for calls, though you get better quality if you buy a Skype phone (from £35). If your computer has a camera, you can see how the grandchildren in Australia are growing. You can also buy credit for calling landlines and mobiles (for friends not on Skype), which can be cheaper. Text messaging is also cheaper than with many mobile packages. If you need to transcribe a call, Skype allows you to record it (remember, it is a legal requirement to tell the person whom you’re calling that you are recording the conversation).

Do: Use for instant messaging, which is much quicker than a call and free.

Don’t: Have a public profile or you will get unwanted messages and calls.

Don’t: Consider it a second

Facebook: people don’t put personal or family details on this site.

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normal people use it to show their friends where they are and what they are doing.

How: Once you’ve signed up, take

Instagram (www.instagram.com)

Particularly popular with:

People who like to look at beautiful things.

What: An online and fast moving way

for people to take and share photos.

Celebrities are well known for posting photos of themselves to keep their public image fresh, but in fact many

pictures of yourself and friends doing things or going places and post it to Instagram. This application works best if you have a smart phone with a good camera and perhaps a photo editing app, which will give you functions to make the picture appear retro, sepia, mono and so on.

Do: Keep in touch with where your favourite people are and what they’re wearing.

Don’t: Post anything you’re not happy

We hear a lot about keeping children safe online but it’s advice we should all heed. Don’t share personal information without good cause and never put any bank or login passwords on social media.

Personal safety

and idea sharing site, with lots of ideas for crafting, self building, photography and recipes. Many use it as inspiration for projects, such as redecorating a room or making a birthday cake.

Before starting any social media accounts, think about how much you want people to know about you. If you keep a private profile and invite friends to join, you can be sure that you won’t be tracked down by the office bore you couldn’t wait to escape years ago.

You also want to be careful if you have a public role (such as a school governor or local councillor) or if you have groups of acquaintances you meet through other groups.

Think about using another name if you don’t want some people contacting you.

Remember, too, that you can always shut down your account if you want to.

How: After creating your account,

It’s public!

Do: Use it for inspiration and for fun ideas of

Before you write anything on any form of social media, remember that this is public and it will be around forever.

You must not comment on any court cases you are involved in or make innuendoes about others. Several high profile court cases recently have shown that a quick message on Twitter can come back to bite people. The best advice is, don’t post anything you would be ashamed to have your family read!

with people seeing.

Pinterest (www.pinterest.com)

Particularly popular with: DIYers, crafters, hobbyists, cooks.

What: Mostly a photograph

you can start to look at things that interest you. Researching knitting patterns? Search for other people’s ideas and images and ‘pin’ them to your virtual corkboard. You can come back to them later and pick those you like best. Many will have step by step instructions. You can also upload photos of your own ideas and completed projects.

things to make, do and see.

Don’t: Be intimidated by some of the projects. There are some serious and professional crafters on there but also lots of others with no expertise at all.

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Staying Safe, Keeping Confidential

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entertainment

Our regular mix of books, culture and entertainment

H is for Hawk

Helen Macdonald ( Jonathan Cape, out now) From the age of seven, Helen Macdonald was determined to become a falconer. She learned the arcane terminology and read all the classic books, including TH White’s tortured masterpiece, The Goshawk. Grief stricken after her father’s death, she finally put her wish into practice and embarked on the long, strange business of trying to train this wildest of animals. H is for Hawk charts her own struggle with grief alongside training her new hawk.

books Belles and Whistles

Andrew Martin (Profile, 4 September) In the heroic days of rail travel, you could dine on kippers and champagne aboard the Brighton Belle; smoke a postprandial cigar as the Golden Arrow pulled in to Paris; or be shaved by the Flying Scotsman’s onboard barber. Everyone from schoolboys to socialites knew of these glamorous ‘named trains’ and aspired to ride aboard them. Andrew Martin recreates five of these famous train journeys by travelling aboard their nearest modern day equivalents. For those who wonder whatever happened to porters, dining cars, mellow lighting, timetables, luggage in advance and trunk murders, the answers are all here.

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After Me Comes The Flood Sarah Perry (Serpent’s Tail, out now)

What if you walked away from your life, only to find another one waiting for you?

Bookseller John Cole decides one day simply to drive off in his car to seek a new life. A mechanical failure leads him to ask for help at a grand, dilapidated house on an isolated road where he is apparently expected. Who are these people, how do they know John and, more worryingly, what do they have planned for him?

Stephen J Dubner and Steven D Levitt (Penguin, out now)

From the authors of bestseller Freakonomics, this is a guide to thinking differently.

Whether you’re interested in improving your odds in calculating penalty kicks or in global reforms, this is a blueprint for a new way to solve problems.

The Table of Less Valued Knights

Marie Phillips ( Jonathan Cape, out in August)

A peek into the dustier corners of Camelot by the author of Gods Behaving Badly. Two quests collide, entangling a host of Arthurian misfits, including a freakishly short giant, a 12 year old crone, an amorous unicorn, and a magic sword with a mind of her own.

Judy: A Dog in a Million: The Heartwarming Story of WWII’s Only Animal Prisoner of War Damien Lewis (Quercus, out now)

Based on interviews with the few living veterans who knew her and extensive archival research, this is the story of an English pointer dog who was cherished and adored by the British, Australian, American and other Allied servicemen who fought to survive alongside her.

IMAGES: PICSELECT, IMAGE.NET, WARNER

Think Like A Freak

film Million Dollar Arm Disney (released 29 August)

A fact based sports story, starring Jon Hamm of the TV series Mad Men as JB Bernstein, a real life sports agent with his eye on opportunities to exploit.

He finds it in India, where he hopes to scour the cricket field for potential baseball talent, financing his search by turning it into a reality TV show focused on Rinku Singh (played by Suraj Sharma, from Life of Pi) and Dinesh Patel (Madhur Mittal, from Slumdog Millionaire).

Before I Go To Sleep

StudioCanal (released 5 September) Nicole

Kidman, Colin Firth and Mark Strong star in a thriller about a woman who wakes up every day remembering nothing as a result of a traumatic accident in her past until one day new, terrifying truths emerge that force her to question everyone around her. Based on the worldwide best selling novel.

What we did on our holiday

Lionsgate (released 26 September) Doug

(David Tennant) and Abi (Rosamund Pike) and their three children travel to the Scottish Highlands for Doug’s father Gordie’s (Billy Connolly) birthday party.

However, their children prove a serious liability in keeping a secret!

The Equalizer

Sony (released 26 September) In this action thriller starring Denzel Washington, a former ‘black ops’ commando who faked his death for a quiet life in Boston comes out of his retirement to rescue a young girl and finds himself face to face with Russian gangsters.

MANY OF THE NATIONAL CINEMA CHAINS OFFER SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR OLDER PEOPLE. CHECK YOUR LOCAL PRESS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. www.csrf.org.uk AUTUMN 2014

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culture theatre The Play That Goes Wrong

Duchess Theatre, London: from 3 September

For the first time in its history, the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society has managed to cast a production with the right number of parts for each of them. Disaster upon hilarious disaster follows as these inept and accident prone amateur thespians attempt to perform The Murder at Haversham Manor.

Not About Heroes

On tour (contact 01344 530924 or www.blackeyedtheatre.co.uk for details)

One hundred years on from the beginning of the First World War, Not About Heroes is the unforgettable story of two of the finest Great War poets, Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon. It is a story of love, war and a friendship that changed the face of British poetry.

Calamity Jane On tour

Calamity Jane can outrun and outshoot any man in Deadwood. It takes her long standing enemy Wild Bill Hickok to make her see that there’s more to life. This new production of the much loved film has an Oscar nominated score that includes The Black Hills of Dakota, The Deadwood Stage, Just Blew in from the Windy City and the award winning Secret Love.

23 September to 27 September: Edinburgh Playhouse 21 October to 25 October: Bristol Hippodrome 4 November to 8 November: New Victoria Theatre, Woking 25 November to 29 November: Milton Keynes Theatre

East is East

Trafalgar Studios, London: from 4 October

Award winning playwright Ayub Khan Din’s first play, East is East, which premiered at the Royal Court and was later turned into a much loved feature film, returns to the London stage after 17 years. This hilarious and ever pertinent modern classic about growing up in multi racial England will star the award winning stage and screen actress Jane Horrocks as Ella Khan, along with the playwright himself.

For some great deals on theatre tickets, why not try the avanti theatre club. Call 020 7492 1566 or log into the members’ area of the CSRF website?

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Nature, Camera, Action! The Secrets of Making Incredible Wildlife Films National Media Museum, Bradford: to 12 October Wildlife filmmakers and photographers have faced the coldest continents and the most fearsome animals, all in pursuit of the perfect shot. This free exhibition goes behind the scenes to show how incredible footage and images of nature have been produced over the past 150 years and gives tips and ideas for families to create their own films and photos. It reveals the secrets behind programmes such as the BBC’s Frozen Planet as well as exhibiting some of the very earliest natural history filmmakers’ equipment, including a camera that travelled with Captain Scott’s British Antarctic Expedition in 1910 and a cine camera that documented UK wildlife in the early 1900s.

Dennis Hopper: The Lost Album Royal Academy of Arts: to 19 October

Although his place in Hollywood history is well established, Dennis Hopper is less well known for his work as a photographer. More than 400 images taken during the 1960s document a decade of huge social and political change, with Hopper at the eye of the storm.

He captured Hell’s Angels and hippies, the street life of Harlem,

the civil rights movement and the urban landscapes of east and west coast America. He also shot some of the biggest stars of the time from the worlds of art, fashion and music, from Andy Warhol to Paul Newman. These images are a fascinating personal diary of one of the great countercultural figures of the 1960s and of America.

Thomas Adès: See the Music, Hear the Dance Sadler’s Wells Theatre: 30 October to 1 November

Pianist, conductor and composer Thomas Adès is the subject of Sadler’s Wells’ Composer Series and several pieces have been choreographed to his music. Outlier, created by Associate Artist Wayne McGregor, is set to Adès’ violin concerto, while Concentric Paths, originally created for the New York City Ballet, is performed here by 11 dancers from the Royal Ballet of Flanders. Other pieces by Karole Armitage, Crystal Pite and Alexander Whitley also feature, with Adès himself on piano.

The Armed Man: A Mass For Peace Royal Albert Hall: 28 September

To mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War, the Royal Albert Hall hosts a performance of Karl Jenkins’ popular mass. Young singers from the UK, France, Belgium and Germany will join the Philharmonic Orchestra along with four international soloists. This is part of a series of events organised

by Sing UK to commemorate the anniversary.

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cooking

Sophia’s Corner

CSRF’s resident cookery expert gives her recommendations for Autumn

These meals are quick to prepare, packed with vegetables and perfect for one person. Use the ingredients as a guideline and experiment using your favourite flavours.

Bean Quesadilla with Sweetcorn Salsa Ingredients

Quesadilla: 2 tortilla wraps 3 tbsp canned refried beans 2 small handfuls of grated cheese

Sweetcorn Salsa: Half a can of sweetcorn 1 spring onion Fresh coriander (optional) 1 jalapeno chilli from a jar (optional) Half a lime Oil, salt and pepper

Roast Chicken for One Ingredients

Recipe

1 chicken breast or leg (whichever you prefer) 1 large roasting potato such as Maris Piper 1 carrot 1 parsnip Half a cup of frozen peas 1 small glass white wine (optional) 2 garlic cloves Half a lemon 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme

reheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/gas mark 5. Chop all P the vegetables to roughly the same size and place in a roasting tray with the chicken in the middle. Throw in the garlic cloves with their skin still on, scrape the zest (the outermost yellow layer) from the lemon and sprinkle that on with the thyme. Lightly pour a little oil over everything, season and let it cook in the oven for 40 minutes.

Five minutes before you take the roast out of the oven, boil the peas for three minutes. Take the roasted chicken and vegetables out of your roasting tray so the chicken has time to rest. Place the tray over a medium heat on the hob and add a ladle of water from the saucepan used for boiling the peas. At this point, add the wine if you are using it. Let this thicken to make quick gravy, add seasoning to taste and stir continuously. Pour the gravy over your roast dinner and enjoy!

Spread the refried beans all over one of the tortillas and then cover with the grated cheese. Place the other tortilla on top like a sandwich and press down all over, especially at the edges.

Next, chop up the spring onion, jalapeno and coriander as finely as you can and mix in a bowl with the sweetcorn and the juice of the lime.

Set to one side.

Heat a dry frying pan (without any oil) and when it is hot, place the quesadilla in the centre of the pan. Leave it for a minute and then flip it over until golden brown. Cut into triangles and serve with salsa.

Grated Autumn Salad Send in recipes and photos and they could be t nex featured in the ti! issue of avan

Autumn veg (try cabbage, carrot or celeriac) make a great seasonal salad grated with half an apple or firm pear, and dressed with cider vinegar and olive oil. Terrific with sausages (pork or vegetarian)!

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tea break wildlife WATCH

As Summer retreats, Vanessa Amaral-Rogers of the charity Buglife has some suggestions of ways you can keep your (very) local wildlife happy this Autumn.

PHOTO: Craig Macadam

Bricks or wooden pallets make brilliant ‘bug hotels’. Fill them with natural materials such as straw, twigs or pine cones and cover with plastic sheeting. Bamboo canes wedged into plastic plant pots are also great for hibernation, as well as for nesting bees next Spring.

Autumn is the perfect time to plan what to do with your garden next year. How about a small pond or a wildflower patch, both of which are great for attracting wildlife of all kinds? Don’t forget

SUDOKU

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EASY

AUTUMN 2014 www.csrf.org.uk

late blooming flowers such as Michaelmas daisies, sedums, ivy or asters, which help offer bugs much needed nectar this time next year.

leaf and wood piles in shaded areas (behind the garden shed if you want to keep the garden tidy) are perfect shelters for earwigs, centipedes and woodboring beetles.

If you’re thinking bigger, the latter part of the year is the best time to start tree planting. Trees such as oak, willow, hawthorn, and beech are particularly good.

Bugs use these trees to feed on, will nest under the bark, knot holes and roots and even feed on the dead wood once the tree has fallen down.

You may also find butterflies, ladybirds and insects hibernating in your home: please don’t destroy them! Move them gently into an outside building to stay safe until Spring. Masonry bees, which play a big role in pollinating the garden, often nest in old walls, so avoid repointing these until Spring, when they have woken up.

Don’t forget garden waste!

Compost heaps attract woodlice, worms and millipedes (which will also break down your garden waste) and make great nest sites for bumblebees too. If you have leaves or dead wood lying around,

MEDIUM

Do send us in any photos of your garden wi ldlife to Fellowship Office, or email to avanti@square7m edia.co.uk

HARD

CODED WORD PUZZLE 1

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Hint – Number 19 is the letter ‘K’

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Autumn jokes When is it bad luck to have a black cat follow you?

When you’re a mouse.

Who keeps a watch for ghost ships?

The ghost guard.

Where do you find vampire snails?

On the end of vampires’ fingers.

What do you get if you cross a skeleton with a python?

A rattlesnake.

A local policeman had just finished his shift one cold November evening and was at home with his wife. “You just won’t believe what happened this evening,” he said. “In all my years on the force I’ve never seen anything like it.”

“Oh yes dear, what happened?”

“I came across two kids down by the canal. One of them was drinking battery acid and the other was eating fireworks.”

“Drinking battery acid and eating fireworks! What did you do with them?”

“Oh that was easy, I charged one and let the other off.”

We want YOU for avanti!

If you’d like to be featured (or you think someone in your group should appear!) do get in touch, either by email or by writing to Fellowship Office. You don’t have to write us a huge essay; just a few hundred words about something you’d like to tell fellow readers. Whether it’s your career highlights, your hobbies or your group activities, let us know.

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WORD SEARCH PUZZLE Find the names of the movies from the list below that are hidden in the grid

TIME FOR

tea

As you settle down with your cuppa, did you know that: According to legend, in 2737 BC, the Chinese emperor Shen Nung was sitting beneath a Camellia Sinensis tree while his servant boiled drinking water. Some leaves from the tree blew into the water and the emperor decided to try the infusion his servant had accidentally created.

A Man Apart Amadeus Babel Batman Big Bobby Cars Catch Me if You Can Class Click Crash E.T. Fargo Ghost Heat Hellcab Hero Hitch Hook

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Hostage King Kong Mash Michael Misery Norma Rae Platoon Ray Saw Scream Shine Spanglish Spider Man Star Wars Tank The Avengers Top Gun Troy Volver

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From 1689 the British government put a tax on tea. By the 18th century an organised crime network was smuggling in up to seven million pounds of tea a year (compared with a legal import of five million). Tea only stopped being taxed 50 years ago.

Today, 96 per cent of the UK’s daily cups of tea comes from tea bags but in fact tea bags started off as a complete mistake. New York tea merchant Thomas Sullivan sent his customers samples in small silk bags. Some people thought these were supposed to be used in the same way as metal infusers, and put the entire bag in the pot: the rest is bestselling history.

Wild Hogs Zoom

We’d love to feature your unusual teapots! Please send or email your photos to Sophia Hill at Fellowship Office. For each one we use a £25 high street gift voucher of your choice will be sent to you.

Prize Crossword Congratulations to Mrs Louise Mackay from Inverness who was our lucky winner for the Summer crossword.

Try your hand at this issue’s prize puzzle and you too could win £100 worth of M&S vouchers. Good luck!

Across 8 Rip off (6) 9 Apology for not hearing (6,2) 10 Audition tape (4) 11 Owner or occupant (10) 12 “Beowulf” beverage (4) 13 Time not long past (10) 17 Eastern discipline (4) 18 Bullying, e.g. (5) 19 Plucky; spirited (4) 21 Heavy or oppressive burden (10) 23 Ad headline (4) 24 Choice of coffee (10) 28 ___-American (4) 29 Hairstyle (4) 30 Highly stupid (6)

Down 1 Sidekick (5,3) 2 Not brand new (10) 3 Freshness indicator (4,2,4) 4 Airy (4) 5 Bow (4) 6 Bay (4) 7 Itsy-bitsy creature (6) 14 Turned (5) 15 Controlled by computer (10) 16 Former country of the Balkans (10) 20 Current of water than turns a device (8) 22 Go by, as time (6) 25 Come down hard (4) 26 Bop (4) 27 Bad day for Caesar (4)

Solution to Summer Prize Crossword

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TO ENTER: Please send the completed crossword, along with your name, address and postcode to: PRIZE CROSSWORD, CSRF, Suite 2, 80A Blackheath Road, London SE10 8DA. The judges’ decision is final. Winners will be notified by post. Closing date: 17th Oct 2014

NAME: ADDRESS:

POSTCODE:

EMAIL:

TELEPHONE NUMBER: Please tick if you do not wish to receive our e-newsletter

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letters

Principal and Fellows of Somerville College

POSTbag

Your letters and stories

The First World War Dear Postbag Following on from your article ‘Where were they then?’

(Summer 2014), I thought you might be interested to know that while Vera Brittain was nursing on the front line during World War One, her Oxford College, Somerville, had been requisitioned as a convalescent hospital for injured officers.

The students were relocated but many came back to help out in their spare time, reading to the patients or writing letters for them.

The hospital was remembered fondly by many of its former patients including Robert Graves and Siegfried Sassoon. The latter described lying in bed and looking across the college lawn as ”very much like Paradise”.

When the women students returned to Somerville in 1919, they found it restored to its former state with the exception of a notice left behind in the dining hall which read: ‘Gentlemen are requested not to throw custard at the walls’. Vera Brittain herself returned to finish her degree course that year, switching from English Literature to Modern History in an attempt to make sense of her war experience and to work towards making sure it did not happen again.

Yours Dr Anne Manuel, Librarian and Archivist, Somerville College, Oxford

Wind Versus Water Dear Postbag Following the article in the Summer avanti, much has been said about wind turbines but little about their efficiency. There is no way to store their output. That means that if there are, say, 10 days’ flat calm (no output) followed by 10 days of very high wind, (when they would

Ed’s note: Thank you so much. It’s fascinating to read of how civilian life was affected by the war, since a lot of the time we think of the First World War as something that only really happened in the trenches far away. We’re also very grateful to Dr Manuel for sending us these photographs of Somerville College at the time.

have to be shut down to avoid fire) the output from a wind farm would be zero. They can only be a backup and a pretty unreliable one at that.

In contrast, hydroelectric power is reliable and its output can be predicted for thousands of years.

I first drove past a tidal power plant in Brittany in 1963 and it still operates. When one thinks of the amount of electricity possible from the Severn, for example, and realises nothing is being done, one despairs.

One last point: the Industrial

Revolution was started using water power, as all the early mills where driven by water wheels.

Garth George, Basingstoke

Ed’s note: Garth, you are absolutely right that in very high winds turbines do have to be shut down to protect the machinery. You are also completely right that wind turbines can’t be a sole solution; they have to be part of a package of renewable energy sources, including hydroelectric power. www.csrf.org.uk AUTUMN 2014

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Civil Service Stories Dear Postbag I wonder how many of your readers might be able to resonate with this tale of ‘derring do’ (or some might say sheer madness).

It happened whilst I was on one of my many trips to the United States in the later stages of my career. Our party had hired a car and headed west from Washington to pick up the iconic Skyway Drive route along the Appalachian ridges all the way to Alabama. Around 9pm we pulled off the highway and climbed up to an isolated motel for our first overnight stay. We agreed to meet in the lobby next morning at about 9am for a prompt getaway.

I found myself fully awake at just after 5am and decided to go for a run. It was of course quite dark outside, with the only light emanating from a spectacular display of stars and a very slim crescent moon, but this could only improve, I thought. I might have worried rather more had I been able to see the frozen water droplets adorning the nearby hedgerows!

As I hadn’t been doing any of the driving, I hadn’t consulted any map, so I set off with the intention of turning left at every opportunity that presented itself until I hit the expressway again, and use that to regain the motel. The first 30 minutes went well, and then I began to realise that I was losing body heat when I should have been gaining it. I reassured myself that it would soon be light, and

temperatures were bound to rise then!

Another 30 minutes later I was able to make out the still frozen droplets on the hedgerows, which explained why I was now feeling really cold and my hands were quite numb.

There had been precious few opportunities to turn left and I had not passed a single building of any description since leaving the motel. At least it was getting lighter so I decided to press on.

I was almost two hours into the run when I rounded a corner and saw a road and a little while later finally recognised the service station and diner that we had used the previous evening. Ignoring all the rules, I headed north along the hard shoulder. I was now very high up and in the open air so I was exposed to the full effects of the icy wind. But even this could not dampen the euphoria that came with knowing that I would survive this little escapade.

When I finally stumbled through the motel’s door and ensconced myself in the ‘breakfast bar’ it felt like being in a very welcome sauna; and the hot coffee and doughnuts that soon followed tasted better than any I had eaten before or have eaten since.

Mike Rogers Dorchester Group

Ed’s note: Mike, we are delighted you survived your experience!

We’d love to hear more readers’ stories and experiences.

Audio avanti is free If you are finding it difficult to read the magazine, then sign up to receive our FREE audio version, which includes all the main features, news and information that are contained in the printed version. It comes on a CD (kindly produced by Kent Association for the Blind) and is posted out to you just after publication of the print version.

Meditation Dear Postbag Thank you for your meditation exercise in the Summer issue of avanti. I have been treated weekly for 10 weeks in overcoming depression and back pain on referral by my GP and the wonderful part of mindfulness is it can be practised when walking, on a bus journey, standing in a queue and so on apart from the daily practice at home.

I look forward to reading your Autumn article on this wonderful way of self-help and trust anyone reading the above will ‘go for it’.

Enid Shaw, by email

Ed’s note: Thank you so much for sharing your story. We do hope that our longer feature on meditation will be useful to you and to other readers too. We would also love to know how other readers got on with the meditation exercise that we set!

talk to us If you have a story or picture to share, write or send it to the Editor using the contact information at the front of the magazine. The Editor regrets it is not possible to enter into correspondence with

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individual readers. All submissions, unless otherwise indicated, will be considered for publication. It’s lovely to hear from you and read all of the letters you take the time to write. But unfortunately due to

space constraints we are often unable to print the full version of some of them. In these cases, letters will be edited to fit within the allotted space we give to Postbag.

group news

GROUPFOCUS The latest news from around the branch and group network. Reporting by David Tickner (DT) and Sylvia Edgell (SE).

Swansea

Sleaford and Ancaster Sleaford and Ancaster group played host to members of the Skegness group in May. Skegness members hired a small coach for the visit, which included coffee at the Bristol Bowls Club in Sleaford followed by a joint lunch at a local restaurant. Both groups raised £36 towards CSRF’s Golden Jubilee appeal from the sale of Buttercup Badges on the day. (DT) Pictured: Members of Skegness and Sleaford and Ancaster posing for David’s camera

Sylvia Edgell, Betty Adlam and Mildred Price ran a stand promoting the local group activities and national CSRF initiatives at the DVLA in Swansea in May. The DVLA is the main civil service department in the area so it offered both groups an excellent opportunity to raise awareness with serving civil servants. The event was well supported by staff, who were interested both in the volunteering initiatives on offer and in our Golden Jubilee Badges. (DT) 1: L to R: Betty Adlam, Sylvia Edgell and Mildred Price at the DVLA in Swansea 2: L to R: Betty Adlam, Mildred Price, Linda Davies (standing) from DVLA, Lynda Byrne and colleague 3: L to R: Lynda Byrne (DVLA), Betty Adlam, Sylvia Edgell, Mildred Price and Wendy Collins (DVLA, standing)

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Dawlish The Dawlish group was invited to participate in a local community event held in the Strand Hall in Dawlish town centre. Organised

by Devon Senior Voice, this provided a valuable opportunity for the group to build some useful local contacts and promote its

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forthcoming programme. The stand was run by Dawlish group chair Margaret Carter with help from group members Margaret Young, Joan Easton and Barbara Brandon. (DT) Pictured: Dawlish group members on the CSRF stand

Ascot and Sunningdale It was a glorious sunny afternoon for the group’s annual fundraiser in May with members staffing a range of stands selling everything from baked goods to plants. Entertainment came in the form of a tombola and some ‘horse racing’.

The fundraiser was followed by their Annual General Meeting at which Board Director Tony Hazeldine was the guest speaker. (DT) 1: The ladies on the home baked produce stand were doing a cracking trade 2: Enjoying the sunshine: members of the Ascot and Sunningdale group at the annual fundraiser 3: A novel twist on the ‘Ascot races’ with members acting as ‘virtual horses’

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Bradford on Avon This group is a very active one with excellent regular attendance and a varied social calendar with lots of outings. I was given a superb welcome at the Annual General Meeting including a scenic tour of the town from the railway station (I was collected by a committee member) to the meeting venue. The AGM was well attended and had a lovely atmosphere. Members were very enthusiastic and supportive of the work of the Fellowship. I had a very enjoyable afternoon in their company. (SE) Pictured: Sylvia Edgell (third from right) with members of Bradford on Avon committee

Liskeard and Pensilva I’ve had a long-standing invitation to visit our Southernmost group for the last couple of years so it was a great pleasure to finally be able to get down and share some time with members at their annual summer lunch last month. Liskeard group meets in the Public Hall in the heart of the town and has a healthy mix of local and CSRF members present at the meetings. With a very dedicated and hard working committee the group is able to put on an active programme of events including visiting speakers, outings and luncheons, which are certainly greatly appreciated by all group members. (DT) 1: Committee members Sylvia Allkins and Peter Waye 2: Members enjoying the lunch 3: Liskeard group pose for David’s camera

Rosneath Sitting on the beautiful Gare Loch, the Rosneath Peninsula provides one of the more picturesque settings for a CSRF group meeting venue and certainly driving around the perimeter of the Loch to visit the group meetings was a wonderful start to a very warm and welcoming meeting (despite the intermittent rain showers outside). The group meets in the Howie Pavilion in the heart of Rosneath and provides a regular monthly meeting with occasional social activities. (DT) Pictured: Group members at their June meeting in the Howie Pavilion

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Weston Super Mare This group is one of our most active with three meetings (two coffee mornings and a trip out) taking place every month! Meeting at the Friends Meeting Hall, which is located in the centre of the town, the coffee mornings feature visiting speakers, book stalls and regular raffles. My visit coincided with a talk from WE Care and Repair, a regional ‘industrial and provident’ society that provides advice and practical help for the home. This was followed by perhaps the longest raffle I’ve ever experience: the prizes just kept coming! It was very clear that the dedication and enthusiasm shown by the committee (led admirably by Alan Jackson) is central to the group’s popularity. (DT) Pictured: ‘Come on in! A warm welcome awaits any visitor to the Weston Super Mare group’

SPECIAL EVENTS Crawley Summer Social The sun shone throughout the group’s summer social (despite a forecast predicting otherwise) and new group members from the surrounding areas of Horley, East Grinstead and Horsham joined Crawley for an informal afternoon of food and friendship. The event was arranged by the group (with support from Fellowship Office) to reignite interest in its activities and attract some new members.

There was a full house and credit should go to all the group committee for an extremely well arranged and executed event. (DT) Pictured: Members enjoying the Crawley group’s summer social

MERGERS

Caerphilly The historic town of Caerphilly is a wonderful setting for a group meeting with its impressive castle dominating the town centre and its association with the cheese of the same name. The group meets regularly in the newly refurbished library and has a dedicated number of attendees who support its activities. Their programme includes guest speakers, lunches and entertainment (such as quizzes). The group is planning a recruitment event for February 2015 to coincide with a visit being made by the Commissioner for Older People in Wales (further details to feature in the next issue of the magazine). (DT) Pictured: Group members pose for David’s camera in their room in the new library

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If your group is struggling and there is a group nearby then why not consider a merger? You can share the responsibilities of running the group and potentially increase your attendance figures too.

Call David for a chat on 020 8691 7411 or email: groupsupport@csrf.org.uk

Golden Groups

rs ton and Hove, Chandle A big thank you to Brigh m, ha en ipp pton, Ch Ford, Lisburn, Northam er, gnor Regis and Chichest Bo , ord eff Sh e, Basingstok er, , Hounslow, Colchest Salisbury Plain, Newbury , and Pensilva, Swansea ard ke Westbury-on-Trym, Lis on nd Lo y, str Rosneath, Oswe Princetown, Aldershot, , d, Whitchurch, Amesbury ea erh South Bank, Leath ns tio ibu ntr co ir Luton for the Neath/Port Talbot and to the Golden Appeal. d a fundraising event an If your group is planning on ll then give David a ca you’d like some advice rg.uk : groupsupport@csrf.o 020 8691 7411 or email

in pictures

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1 and 2. Princetown group members had a stylish St George’s Day at a local hostelry 3. Princetown group members after an excellent meal on their way home from a trip on the South Devon Railway 4. Members of the Stockport/Grove Park group with Joan Broadbent, who retired as Social Secretary after 21 years

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5. Members of the Belfast group with friends on holiday in Ashbourne near Dublin 6. Members of the Hull group enjoying an outing to Hornsea in April

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7. Sleaford group at Stoke Rochford 8. Eltham group member Gladys Nielsen celebrating her 90th birthday during the group’s holiday to Weymouth

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9. Bognor Regis and Chichester group celebrated its first birthday in June 10. Mrs Ellen Parkins, widow of the late Bexhill group chair Alf Parkins, was presented with an orchid as a leaving present. Pictured (from l to r) Phyl McEwan, Ellen Parkins, Sylvia Thring and Valerie (Ellen’s daughter)

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11. Members of Neath Port Talbot group enjoying a visit to the National Botanic Garden of Wales in May 12. Members of the Sleaford group visiting Alford Manor

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GROUP PLANNER Our group network operates across the country and provides a mix of leisure, social and welfare activities for your benefit and enjoyment. So why not show your support by popping along and making some new friends?

John Walker CHAIRMAN T: 01387 261889 E: j.walker215@btinternet.com We do not hold regular meetings but if you would like further details about coach trips please contact Doreen Beck on 01387 268824.

Coach Trips: All trips start and finish at Brooms Road Car Park, Dumfries. Everyone is welcome including family and friends, as the more people the lower the cost per person. Please book as early as possible by phoning Doreen Beck on 01387 268824 or the Chairman on 01387 261889.

03 Sep 2014 Coach Trip to Alnwick Castle and Gardens, Northumberland 01 Oct 2014 Coach Trip to Dean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock

Friday of each month. Organiser: Pat Sinclair (0131 337 6389) 02 Sep 2014 Two Course Summer Lunch (jointly with Central Group) at Zucca in Grindley Street at 12.30pm. Cost £6 subsidised by the Branch. Organiser: Liz Beedie ring to book your place as numbers are limited to 20.

05 Sep 2014 Monthly Walk 30 Sep 2014 Summer Coffee Get Together at St John’s Church Tea Room at the corner of Princes Street and Lothian Road from 2pm to 3.30pm (last for the season) 03 Oct 2014 Monthly Walk 16 Oct 2014 First Coffee Morning of the season at Martin Shields Hall 07 Nov 2014 Monthly Walk 20 Nov 2014 Second Coffee Morning of the season at Martin Shields Hall

Edinburgh (Central)

Highland (Scotland)

SCOTLAND Dumfries and Kirkcudbright

Liz Beedie, Secretary T: 0131 229 7422 Edinburgh Quaker Meeting House, First Floor, 7 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2JL Third Tuesday of each month (Oct to April) at 2pm for speakers etc. We run walks throughout the year (jointly with Corstorphine Group) meeting at Lakeland on the corner of George Street and Hanover Street at 1.30pm on the first Friday of each month. Organiser: Pat Sinclair (0131 337 6389) 02 Sep 2014 Two Course Summer Lunch (jointly with Corstorphine Group) at Zucca in Grindley Street at 12.30pm. Cost £6, subsidised by the branch.

Organiser: Liz Beedie. Please ring to book your place as numbers are limited to 20.

05 Sep 2014 Monthly Walk 30 Sep 2014 Summer Coffee Get Together at St John’s Church Tea Room on the corner of Princes Street and Lothian Road from 2pm to 3.30pm (last for the season) 03 Oct 2014 Monthly Walk 21 Oct 2014 First meeting of the season at Quaker Meeting House.

Chaplaincy Duties at a Large Hospital: Talk 07 Nov 2014 Monthly Walk 18 Nov 2014 Second meeting of the season at Quaker Meeting House. My Portfolio Employment Career: Talk

Edinburgh (Corstorphine)

Liz Beedie, Secretary T: 0131 229 7422 Martin Shields Hall, St Ninians Church 144, St Johns Road, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 8AY Third Thursday of each month, from Oct to April from 10.30am to 11.45am (except December). We run walks throughout the year (jointly with Central Group) meeting at Lakeland on the corner of George Street and Hanover Street at 1.30pm on the first

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Mrs Pam Barnet T: 01463 790265 Macdougall Clansman Hotel, 103 Church Street, Inverness IV1 1ES First and third Wednesday of each month at 11am. Lunch Club on selected Fridays throughout the summer

Rosneath

William Lauchlan, Secretary T: 01436 842723 The Howie Pavillion, Rosneath G84 First Monday of the month at 1.30pm 01 Sep 2014 Monthly Meeting 06 Oct 2014 Children Panel Solicitors: Talk by Nick Davis 03 Nov 2014 Monthly Meeting

NORTHERN IRELAND AND NORTH WEST ENGLAND Antrim

Brian Shields, Chairperson T: 029 9443 2615 Crown Buildings, 20 Castle Street, Antrim BT41 4JE Second Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm

Banbridge

Adrian Howlett, Secretary T: 028 4062 7979 1st Floor, Old Tech Building, Downshire Road, Banbridge BT32 3JY First Wednesday of each month at 2pm 01 Sep 2014 Speaker (TBC) 17 Sep 2014 Visit to Tayto Factory Tandragee followed by tea at Tandragee Golf Club 06 Oct 2014 Speaker (TBC) Speaker (TBC) 03 Nov 2014

Bangor

Mrs Isabel McKnight, Secretary T: 028 9186 3410 E: IR3410@yahoo.co.uk

Hamilton House Community Centre, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor BT20 4BT Second and fourth Monday of the month at 2pm (except Bank Holidays)

Belfast

George Glenholmes, Secretary T: 028 9048 0339 Mcelhinney Room, The Pavillion, Stormont Estate, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3TA First Monday of each month at 2.30pm

Birkenhead and Wirral

Cynthia Morgan, Secretary T: 0151 678 6266 Victory Hall, 61 Salacre Lane, Upton, Wirral, Merseyside CH49 0TN First Tuesday of the month at 2pm Victory Hall, 61 Salacre Lane, Upton, Wirral CH49 0TN

Bury

Gerald Beadling, Chairman T: 01706 633674 The Mosses Centre, Cecil Street, Bury, Lancashire BL9 0SB Each Wednesday at 2.15pm (except events below where listed)

Craigavon

George McConnell, Secretary T: 028 8676 4395 E: joannearcher1@hotmail.co.uk Portadown Library, 24-26 Church Street, Portadown,Craigavon BT62 3LQ First Tuesday of the month at 2.30pm

Crewe

Miss Grace Harding, Chairman T: 01270 250677 Wells Green Methodist Church Hall, Brookland Avenue, Wistaston Crewe CW2 8EJ First Tuesday of each month at 2pm

Lisburn

Ann Allen, Secretary T: 028 9266 1943 Bridge Community Centre, 50 Railway Street, Lisburn, County Antrim BT28 1XP Second Monday of each month at 2.30pm

Penrith

Richard Roscoe, Chairman T: 01697 472383 A local hostelry each quarter First Tuesday of the quarter (March, June and Sep) at 12.30pm for lunch and a Christmas Lunch in December

Stockport/Grove Park

Yvonne Smith, Social Secretary T: 0161 427 5593 Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, Stockport SK7 3AB First Thursday of each month at 2.15pm 04 Sep 2014 The Tear Fund: Talk by Mr K Harris 18 Sep 2014 Coach Trip to Tideswell to take in the Cathedral of the Peaks

Flower Festival, with coffee stop and two course lunch included 02 Oct 2014 In house entertainment by members 06 Nov 2014 Video Show by Chairman Alaister Macrae (always excellent)

Hull

Brian Mitchell, Treasurer T: 01482 653973 Age Uk Healthy Living Centre, Porter Street, Hull HU1 2RH Third Tuesday of the month at 2.15pm

Middlesbrough

Dorothy Ainsworth, Treasurer T: 0151 222 2538 E: dorrain@blueyonder.co.uk Mersey Road Methodist Church, Mersey Road, Liverpool L23 3AE Second Tuesday of each month at 10.30am

Lilian Lloyd, Secretary T: 01642 315439 St Mary’s Centre, 82-90 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough TS1 2RW Last Tuesday of the month at 2pm 30 Sep 2014 These Boots were made for Walking: Talk by Gordon and Lilian Lloyd To be arranged 28 Oct 2014

NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Newcastle West

Waterloo (Merseyside)

Blaydon

Elizabeth Pearson, Secretary T: 0191 488 0840 Ridley Room, Blaydon Library, Wesley District Precinct, Blaydon, Tyne And Wear NE21 5BT Second Tuesday of the month at 10.30am

Boston Spa and Wetherby

Mrs Janet Walker, Records Secretary T: 01937 842216 Deepdale Community Centre, Deepdale Lane, Boston Spa, Wetherby LS23 6EW Second Tuesday of the month at 2pm 09 Sep 2014 Sylvia Plath the Poet: Talk by Mrs Shirley White 14 Oct 2014 Buffet Lunch (pre-booking essential) 11 Nov 2014 My Life as a GP: Talk by Dr Alison Smith

Bradford

Mr Norman Griffiths, Secretary T: 01274 586410 Centenary Court, 1 St Blaise Way, Bradford BD1 4YL Third Tuesday of each month at 2pm 16 Sep 2014 The Real Countess of Downton Abbey: Talk by Mrs M Kenny 21 Oct 2014 Arran and Bute: Talk by John Holroyd 18 Nov 2014 TBA

Chester-Le-Street

Mrs Mary May, Chairman T: 0191 410 4106 St Mary and St Cuthbert Parish Centre Church, Chare, Chester-le-Street, County Durham DH3 3QB First Monday of each month from 2pm to 4pm 01 Sep 2014 The Dirty Box: Talk 06 Oct 2014 Lord Collingwood: Talk 03 Nov 2014 Quiz

Gateshead

Elsa Jackson, Chairman T: 0191 267 4728 Gateshead Legion Club, 142 Coatsworth Road, Gateshead NE8 4LL First Thursday of the month at 10am to 12 noon

Harrogate and Ripon

Margaret Terry, Secretary T: 01423 885297 The United Reformed Church Hall, Raglan Street, Harrogate HG1 1LE Third Thursday of each month at 2.15pm 18 Sep 2014 Slides Presentation 16 Oct 2014 Visit by David Tickner, CSRF Deputy Chief Executive 20 Nov 2014 Bring and Buy Sale

Horsforth, Rawdon and District

Mrs M J Taylor T: 0113 267 8110 Venue varies. We meet in local hostelries for lunch.

Please contact Mrs Taylor for more details.

Mrs E Jackson, Chairman T: 0191 267 4728 Bentinck Social Club, 3-4 Bentinck Villas, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE4 6UR Second Wednesday of the month from 10am to 12 noon

Sunderland and Washington

Ivan Bell, Secretary T: 0191 549 4130 Robert Reed, Chairman T: 0191 584 8023 Age UK, Bradbury House, Stockton Road, Sunderland SR2 7AQ First Monday of the month from 2pm to 3.30pm

Whitley Bay

Peter Harris MBE, Chairman T: 0191 447 4066 Age UK, Centre Park Avenue, Whitley Bay NE26 2TH Second Thursday of the month from 10.30am to 12 noon 17 Oct 2014 Autumn Social and Fish and Chips

WALES AND WELSH BORDERS Caerphilly

Mr Gwion Lewis, Treasurer T: 029 2086 8643 E: robertgwion@talktalk.net Meeting Room 2, Caerphilly New Library, The Twyn, Caerphilly CF83 1JL Second Monday of every month at 10.15am 08 Sep 2014 A Girl Guider’s Travels with the Post Box: Talk by Mary Wiltshire 13 Oct 2014 An Overview: Professor Margaret Griffiths, Public Services Ombudsman for Wales 10 Nov 2014 Desert Island Discs

Church Stretton

John Brewer, Secretary T: 01694 722965 E: johnbrewer1@talktalk.net Mayfair Community Centre, Easthope Road, Church Stretton SY6 6BL Contact the Secretary for meeting dates and times

Llandudno

Mrs Beryl Rennie, Assistant Secretary T: 01492 876238 Keith Livesay, Chairman T: 01492 548492 Queen’s Hotel, The Promenade, Llandudno LL30 2LE First Tuesday of each month at 10.30am for coffee mornings. Details of lunches/walks are announced at the previous coffee morning 02 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning 16 Sep 2014 Pub Lunch and Walk 07 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning

21 Oct 2014 Autumn Lunch at Royal Oak, Betws-y-Coed 04 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning 18 Nov 2014 Pub Lunch and Walk

Llanishen (Cardiff)

Miss Mary Corke, Secretary T: 029 2073 3427 Park End Presbyterian Church Hall, Rhyd-y-Penau Road, Cardiff CF23 6EE First Tuesday of each month at 10am for 10.30am 02 Sep 2014 Self Help for Long Term Health Conditions: Talk by Liz Paciello 07 Oct 2014 Wills of the Rich and Famous: Talk by Phil Davies 04 Nov 2014 Bring and Buy followed by a Quiz

Ludlow

Peter Waite, Liaison T: 01584 872639 E: peter.waite@dsl.pipex.com Local public houses, various venues in and around Ludlow Third Tuesday of each month at 12.30pm

Neath/Port Talbot

Mrs E Northcott, Chairman T: 01639 887851 Neath Working Men’s Club, Wind Street, Neath SA11 3HA Last Wednesday of each month at 2pm 24 Sep 2014 The Mary Rose: Talk by Philip Bowen 25 Sep 2014 Visit to see The Yeomen of the Guard at Taliesin Theatre, Swansea 29 Oct 2014 Cardiff Night Time Experiences: Talk by Reverend Wendy Taylor

Oswestry

Ruth Haile, Chairman T: 01691 650993 The Wynnstay Hotel, Church Street, Oswestry SY11 2SZ First Tuesday of each month at 10.30am 02 Sep 2014 Bernice’s Quiz 07 Oct 2014 Stained Glass: Talk by Denise McGowan 04 Nov 2014 John Abram, former High Sheriff of Shropshire

Swansea

Mrs Sylvia Edgell, Chairman/Secretary T: 01792 851125 E: sylviaedgell@btinternet.com The Vestry Hall St Mary’s Church Swansea SA1 3LP Last Friday of each month at 2pm 26 Sep 2014 From Copper Works to Call Centres: Talk by Jan Smith 31 Oct 2014 Blessings, Poems and Paintings: Talk by Carole Pearson

Whitchurch (Cardiff)

Mary Minty, Secretary T: 029 2061 4445 Ararat Baptist Church, Plas Treoda, Whitchurch Cardiff South Glamorgan CF14 1PT Second Wednesday of the month at 10am Age Cymru Handy Van 10 Sep 2014 08 Oct 2014 A Meander along Westgate Street: Talk by Dave Salter 12 Nov 2014 Sarah Rochira, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales

Ynys Mon (Anglesey)

Eric Maynard, Chairman T: 01407 720146 Please contact the Chairman for venue details.

Second Tuesday of each month at 12.30pm for lunch

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MIDDLE ENGLAND Amersham

Jim Campbell, Chairman T: 01494 722558 Community Centre, Chiltern Avenue, Amersham, Buckinghamshire HP6 5AE First Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm 03 Sep 2014 Medical Detection Dogs 01 Oct 2014 Climate Change: Talk by Dr Robert Bradnock 05 Nov 2014 What Archaelogists Do!: Talk

by Colin Oakes

Banbury

Ann Garton, Secretary T: 01295 750151 E: agarton@btinternet.com Hanwell Fields Community Centre, Rotary Way, Banbury OX16 1ER Second Tuesday of each month from 2.15 to 4.15pm

Bedford

Patricia Waters, Secretary T: 01234 347443 The Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU First Tuesday of every month at 10am 02 Sep 2014 Quiz, Coffee Morning and Sales Table 07 Oct 2014 Harvest Time, Coffee Morning and Sales Table 04 Nov 2014 The Poppy Appeal, Coffee Morning and Sales Table

Birmingham

June Oakley, Chairman T: 01952 604922 Five Ways House, Islington Row, Five Ways, Edgbaston B15 1SL Third Wednesday of each month at 11 am

Coalville and Ashby

Terry Watson, Chairman T: 01530 835373 Thringstone Community Centre, The Green, Thringstone, Coalville LE67 8NR Third Wednesday each month from 2pm to 4pm 17 Sep 2014 Ashby Canal: Talk by Geoff Pursglove 15 Oct 2014 Viruses: Talk by John Bostock 14 Nov 2014 Army Dog Training: Talk

Coventry

Mrs J Turner, Chairman T: 024 76 465382 Room 2, Gilbert Richard Centre, Broadway, Earsldon, Coventry CV5 6NT Third Tuesday of each month at 2pm (except Nov)

Donnington

Betty Pugh, Chairman T: 01952 811355 Turreff Hall, Turreff Avenue, Donnington TF2 8HG Every Monday at 1pm (except Bank Holidays)

Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard

Mrs Janet Bliss, Secretary T: 01582 661795 E: j.bliss35@btinternet.com Scout HQ, Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard LU7 4SW First Wednesday of the month at 2pm 03 Sep 2014 San Francisco: an Englishman’s contribution to the charm of the city: Talk. Raffle and Book Table 01 Oct 2014 The Royal Flying Doctor Service: Digital presentation

by Graham Laurie MVO. Raffle and Book Table

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05 Nov 2014 A Touch of Glass: More reflections from Magic Lanterns. Bring and Buy Raffle and Book Table.

Evesham

Eric Marsh, Group Liaison T: 01386 421460 Foyer of the Methodist Chapel, Bridge Street, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4SF Second Tuesday of each month at 10.30am for tea/coffee mornings

Northampton

Mrs Betna Bradley, Secretary T: 01604 454501 Holy Sepulchre Church Rooms, Church Lane, Northampton NN1 3NL Alternate Thursday mornings at 10am

Nottingham

Pam Bradley, Chair T: 0115 938 4676 The Mechanics, 3 North Sherwood Street, Nottingham NG1 4EZ Second Wednesday of each month from 10.15am to 12 noon

Grantham

Mr Maurice Whincup, Chairman T: 01476 572425 E: mewhincup@gmail.com The King’s Hotel, 130 North Parade, Grantham NG31 8AU First Wednesday every month from 10.30 am to 12 noon

Hucclecote

Mrs B Arnold, Secretary T: 01452 618069 Evangelical Church, Colwell Avenue, Hucclecote, Gloucester GL3 3LX First Thursday of the month at 2pm 04 Sep 2014 From the Source to the Sea: the Severn: Talk Public House Signs: Talk 02 Oct 2014 06 Nov 2014 Those were the days: the 1950s: Talk

Kidderminster

Pam Hussey, Local Contact T: 01562 755632 Various venues in and around Kidderminster Third Wednesday of each month at 11am (except when lunching out) 15 Oct 2014 Lunch at The Down Inn, Ludlow Road (near Bridgnorth) WV16 6UA 19 Nov 2014 No meeting

Lincoln City

Jannette Hook, Secretary T: 01522 803412 Mothers’ Union Centre, St Benedict’s Church, St Benedict’s Square, Lincoln LN5 7AR First Wednesday of the month at 10am Coffee Morning 03 Sep 2014 01 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning and Bring and Buy 05 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning

Louth

Mrs Margaret Bradley, Secretary T: 01472 388928 Elizabeth Court, Church Street, Louth LN11 9BP Second and fourth Thursday of the month at 10.30am

Luton

John Barrett, Secretary T: 01582 519886 E: barrettjb@ntlworld.com The Chaul End Centre, 515 Dunstable Road, Luton LU4 8QN First Monday of every month at 2pm (except Bank Holidays) 01 Sep 2014 Growing up in Luton: Talk by Howard Chandler 06 Oct 2014 My Brush with Fame, Fortune and Royalty: Talk by Jenny Moody 03 Nov 2014 Donkey Sanctuary: Talk by Maggie Taylor. Christmas items Bring and Buy

Melton Mowbray

Mr M Johnson, Chairman T: 01664 566821 School Room, United Reform Church, Chapel Street, Melton Mowbray LE13 LZ First Tuesday of each month at 1.45pm

Nuneaton

Rachel Homer, Secretary T: 024 76 385845 E: rachel.homer@tesco.net The Sycamore Tree, 2 Chapel Street, Nuneaton CV11 5QH First Tuesday of each month at 11am for coffee mornings.

Rutland

Mrs Peggy Brown, Chairman T: 01780 480314 Various locations for pub lunches in and around Rutland Third Wednesday of each month

Shefford

Eileen Devereux, Chairman T: 01462 814765 Community Hall, Ampthill Road, Shefford SG17 5BD Third Tuesday of the month from 10am to 12 noon Origami: Barbara Farquhar 16 Sep 2014 Have a Bet: Newmarket 21 Oct 2014 Grand Draw 18 Nov 2014

Skegness

Ray Morris, Secretary T: 01754 762060 E: ray@bermond.co.uk Philip Grove Community Rooms, Church Road, South Skegness PE25 2HW First Thursday of each month from 10am to 12 noon

Sleaford and Ancaster

Mike Smith, Chairman T: 01526 833273 E: mjs_consultation@hotmail.com Sleaford: First Thursday of the month at 10.15am, Bristol Bowls Club, Boston Road, Sleaford NG34 7HH Ancaster: Second Wednesday of the month from 10.15am to 12 noon, Angel Court, Ancaster, Grantham NG32 3PR 16 Sep 2014 Visit to Brigg Garden Centre and Hemswell Antique Centre 20 Oct 2014 Lunch at the Old Reindeer Restaurant followed by a visit to Southwell Workhouse

Solihull

Margaret Smith, Secretary T: 0121 744 6150 E: me.smith@talktalk.net Assembly Rooms, Poplar Road, Solihull B91 3AD Second Monday of each month at 10am

Stamford

Mrs B Smith, Chairman/Secretary T: 01780 755437 Tenter Court, Wharf Road, Stamford PE9 2EZ Last Thursday of the month at 2.15pm

Stevenage and Baldock

Helen Leisk, Secretary T: 01438 355131 E: helen.leisk@firenet.uk.net United Reformed Church, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage SG1 1UL First Thursday of every month at 2pm 04 Sep 2014 The Painted Garden: Talk by Russell Bowes

11 Sep 2014 Coach Outing to Bletchley Park (must be prebooked) 02 Oct 2014 Chicksands Priory: Talk by Doreen Hoare (postponed from 7 Aug) 06 Nov 2014 London Transport in Wartime: Talk by Mike Leverton

Wellington and Telford

Emrys Jones, Chairman T: 01952 254252 E: emjones7wizard@yahoo.co.uk Belmont Community Hall, New Street, Wellington Telford TF1 1LU First Thursday of the month from 10am to 12 noon

Wigston

Mrs J Collins, Vice, Chairman T: 0116 288 7802 The Elms Social and Ex service Club (formerly The Royal British Legion) Launceston Road Wigston LE18 2BA Second and fourth Monday of each month from 1.30pm to 4pm (Bank Holidays permitting).

08 Sep 2014 The Canadian Rockies: Talk by Phillip Shreeves 22 Sep 2014 The Fascination of English: Talk

by David Siddons 13 Oct 2014 Bring and Buy 27 Oct 2014 My Time as a Midwife in Nepal: Talk by Mrs Ruth Fryer 10 Nov 2014 Cloud Forest of Ecuador: Talk

by Mrs Val Williams 24 Nov 2014 Wine for Christmas with Mrs Sue Lobb (bring a glass for a taste!)

Worcester

Leigh Watkins, Secretary T: 01905 774034 Perdiswell Young People’s Leisure Club, Droitwich Road (opposite Checketts Lane), Worcester WR3 7SN Second Wednesday of the month at 1pm Cake Sale. Call My Bluff Quiz 10 Sep 2014 08 Oct 2014 Men Only: Talk by John T 12 Nov 2014 To be arranged

EASTERN ENGLAND AND EAST ANGLIA Attleborough

Mrs D Parker, Secretary T: 01953 456958 Methodist Church Hall, London Road, Attleborough NR17 2BY Third Thursday of the month from 10 am to 12 noon and other events listed below 18 Sep 2014 Two Representatives from Wise Acre will interview members about their earliest working experiences during and after the war 16 Oct 2014 Older Persons’ Forum 28 Oct 2014 Annual BBQ (held in the Chairman’s Garden) 20 Nov 2014 Cheese and Wine (non alcoholic) Morning and Quiz

Aylsham and District

Pam Bailey, Social Secretary T: 01263 731421 Friends Meeting House, Pegg’s Yard, Red Lion Street, Aylsham Norfolk NR11 6ER Second Monday of each month at 10am for 10.30am (unless it’s a Bank Holiday) 08 Sep 2014 Do It Yourself 18 Sep 2014 Cromer Pier Show 13 Oct 2014 Anticlockwise round the Island: Talk by Geoff Worton 10 Nov 2014 The Tower of London: Talk by David Morton

Billericay

Mr J R Smith T: 01277 622156 Mr Cecil Featherstone E: feathb-cay@tiscali.co.uk Various locations for informal lunches in and around Billericay

Bury St Edmunds

Mrs Doreen Ginn, Chairman T: 01284 755256 West End Home Guard Club, Abbot Road ,Bury St Edmunds IP33 3UB Second Wednesday of each month at 10am 10 Sep 2014 ‘Have you noticed?’: Talk by Martyn Taylor 08 Oct 2014 RNLI: Talk by Geoffrey Heathcock 12 Nov 2014 Broadcasting: Talk by Jamie Robertson

Colchester

Joan Gomer, Secretary T: 01206 794656 Straight Road Community Centre, 329 Straight Road, Colchester CO2 9EF Third Monday of each month at 2pm 15 Sep 2014 Fire Prevention: Talk by Les Nicoll 20 Oct 2014 Stand by your Beds: Talk by Roy Waters Fred Pearce Entertains 17 Nov 2014

Croxley Green, Chorleywood and Rickmansworth

Frank Brown T: 01923 779070 E: fctbrown@btinternet.com Red Cross Centre 1 Community Way (off Barton Way) Croxley Green WD3 3HB Second Thursday of alternate months January, March etc) at 10.15am and on the first Monday of intervening months for pub lunch from 12 noon

Harlow

Mrs Edna McNaughton, Secretary T: 01279 865102 E: edian.mcnaughton@tesco.net Toby Carvery, Edinburgh Gate, Harlow CM20 2LQ First Friday of the month at 12 noon

Hertford

Mrs Olive Smith, Chairman T: 01992 550753 Methodist Church Hall Ware Road, Hertford SG13 7DZ First Monday of each month from 2pm to 4pm (except Bank Holidays) 01 Sep 2014 My wife and I are one and I am he: Talk by Mrs M Rodgers 06 Oct 2014 I’ve never seen a ghost, but: Talk by Mrs Ann Hunt 08 Oct 2014 Lunch at The Cricketers, Clavering 03 Nov 2014 Livery Companies and the Lord Mayor’s Show: Talk by Charles Ledson

Ilford

Mrs Sylvia Green, Social Secretary T: 020 8594 5284 E: sylviagreen@rocketmail.com St Andrew’s Church Hall The Drive, Ilford IG1 3JQ Third Monday of the month at 1.30pm 15 Sep 2014 Discussion Group led by our Chairman, Les Barnett 20 Oct 2014 Nursing Career Part 2: Talk by Sheila Billins 17 Nov 2014 Memorable Moments reporting for the BBC: Talk by Brian Curtois

Ipswich

Eva Stevens, Secretary T: 01473 688040 E: evajs@yahoo.co.uk

Museum Street Methodist Church Hall, Blackhorse Lane, Ipswich IP1 2EF First Wednesday of the month at 2pm 03 Sep 2014 Victorian Jailer: Mike Wade 17 Sep 2014 Luncheon at Peak Lodge at 12.30pm 01 Oct 2014 Ipswich Town Football Club: Pat Godbold 05 Nov 2014 Let’s have a sing song: Joyce Kimber

Loughton

Eric Adams, Chairman T: 020 8508 7207 Jazz Archive Room, Loughton Library, Traps Hill, Loughton IG10 1HD Third Monday of each month at 2pm Local Affairs: Discussion 15 Sep 2014 20 Oct 2014 Shopping in 2014: Discussion 17 Nov 2014 A Winter I Remember: Discussion

Lowestoft

Kate McNamara,Treasurer/Secretary T: 01502 714380 E: kate_mcn@talktalk.net Ex Servicemen’s Club, Gordon Road, Lowestoft NR32 1DY First (at the Victoria Hotel, Kirkley Cliff, Lowestoft) and third Wednesday (at Ex Servicemen’s Club, Gordon Road, Lowestoft) of each month at 10.30am (except August)

Mildenhall

Alan Benton, Chairman T: 01638 715492 Mildenhall Social Club, Recreation Way, Mildenhall, Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP28 7HG First Tuesday of every month from 1.30pm to 2pm

Newmarket

Mike Hastings, Chairman T: 01638 661065 E: michaelhastings@mypostoffice.co.uk The Ancient Order Of Foresters Hall, Kingston Passage, Newmarket CB8 8EN Second Wednesday of each month at 2.15pm 10 Sep 2014 The Curious Case of the Bogus Doctor: Talk by Dick Kirby 08 Oct 2014 Working to Entertain You: Talk

by Peter Cresswell 12 Nov 2014 A Christmas Cracker: Talk by Vic Botterill

Norwich

Mary Weatherhead, Secretary T: 01603 410821 Alan Marrs, Chairman T: 01603 410 739 Reading Room, Doughty’s Hospital, Golden Dog Lane, Norwich NR3 1BP Second Monday of each month at 10am for 10.30am 08 Sep 2014 Curiosities: Talk by Mrs S Barrett 13 Oct 2014 Growing up as a Schoolboy in a Norfolk Village in World War 2: Talk by Mr J Hurren 10 Nov 2014 Norwich 1850 to1950: Illustrated talk by Mr and Mrs P Salt

Radlett

Mrs Shirley Herbert, Secretary T: 020 8953 2999 Monthly at local restaurants for coffee or lunch: further details from the Secretary.

Rayleigh

Mrs F Cohen, Social Secretary T: 01702 342426 Cloister West Parish Rooms, Rayleigh Church Rectory Garth (off Hockley Road) Rayleigh SS6 8BA First Thursday of each month from 2pm to 4pm 04 Sep 2014 Lyn Boulter of AgeUK: Talk 02 Oct 2014 Tony Curtis: Slide presentation 06 Nov 2014 Mr Armstrong, Police Officer: Talk

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Saffron Walden

Mrs E Mansfield, Chairperson T: 01279 755458 The Chequers Public House, Cambridge Road, Ugley, Bishops Stortford CM22 6HZ Second Monday in the month (around four times a year) at 12 to 12.30 pm for lunch

Shoeburyness

Mrs F Cohen, Social Secretary T: 01702 342426 The Salvation Army Hall, Frobisher Way, Shoeburyness SS3 8UT First Tuesday of each month from 2pm to 4pm 02 Sep 2014 Lyn Boulter of AgeUK: Talk 07 Oct 2014 Tony Curtis: Slide Presentation 04 Nov 2014 Mr Armstrong, Police Officer: Talk

St Albans

Mrs B G Hill, Secretary T: 01727 858198 E: barbara.hill5@ntlworld.com Friends Meeting House, Upper Lattimore Road, St Albans AL1 3UD First Thursday of the month at 10.15am

Swaffham

David Moore, Chairman T: 01760 723740 Methodist Church Hall, London Street ,Swaffham PE37 7DD Third Tuesday of the month at 10.15am

Westcliff-on-Sea

Mrs F Cohen, Social Secretary T: 01702 342426 Balmoral Community Centre Salisbury Avenue Westcliff On Sea SS0 7AU Fourth Wednesday of each month from 2pm to 4pm 24 Sep 2014 Teddies For Loving Care: Talk

by Mr Simpson 22 Oct 2014 Laurel and Hardy: Talk by Mr Robinson 26 Nov 2014 Mr Bob Delgarno: Talk

Wickford

Peter Blake, Chairman and Secretary T: 01268 583060 Christchurch Hall, rear of 44 High Street, Wickford SS12 9AJ Second Thursday of each month from 1.30pm to 3.30pm

Witham

Mrs P Rogers, Group Secretary T: 01376 514539 Witham Methodist Church Hall, Guithavon Street, Witham, Essex CM8 1BJ Last Tuesday of each month at 10.30am

SOUTHERN ENGLAND Aldershot

Mrs Gloria Wetherill, Social Secretary T: 01252 345318 E: rayglo227@talktalk.net Holy Trinity Church, Galpin Hall, Windsor Way, Aldershot Hampshire GU11 3HE Second Thursday of every month at 1.30pm

Arun

Jim Underwood, Treasurer T: 01903 709033 E: jimunderwood9@hotmail.com St Joseph’s Convent, Franciscan Way Littlehampton BN17 6AU Second Wednesday of each month at 2pm.

Please use entrance in East Street if arriving by car.

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Ascot and Sunningdale

Pam Drummer, Secretary T: 01344 774849 De Vere Venues, Sunningdale Park, Larch Avenue, Ascot SL5 0QE Third Friday of each month at 12 noon 19 Sep 2014 St George’s Chapel Windsor: Talk by Stan Cornford 17 Oct 2014 Beetle Mania: Run by Dorothea and Peter Standley 21 Nov 2014 Magic Tricks: Talk by Steve Price

Basingstoke

David Cowling, Publicity Officer T: 01256 327806 Tony Brazier, Secretary T: 01256 418770 E: bjmapbr@ntlworld.com Janette Davies, Chairman T: 01256 321471 Brookvale Village Hall, Lower Brook Street, Basingstoke RG21 7SD First Wednesday of each month at 10am 03 Sep 2014 Russia and Karelia: Talk by Diane White 11 Sep 2014 Outing to Brighton (do as you please day trip) 01 Oct 2014 Jane Austen’s Hampshire: Talk

by Phil Howe 02 Oct 2014 Half-day Trip to Bordon Country Market 05 Nov 2014 British Forces Broadcasting Service: Talk by Alan Grace

Bexhill

Elizabeth Leahy, Secretary T: 01424 214042 Bexhill Sailing Club Marina, Bexhill-On-Sea TN40 1LA Fourth Tuesday of each month at 10am Mystery Coach Trip 03 Sep 2014 23 Sep 2014 Magical Thinking and Practical Theatre: Talk by J Linsley 28 Oct 2014 Quiz

Bognor Regis and Chichester

Mrs Heather Olive, Chairperson T: 01903 778543 Jeneses Community Arts Centre, 45 Linden Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 2AS Last Thursday of the month from 2pm to 4pm 25 Sep 2014 History of Bognor Pier: Talk by Mrs Endacott 30 Oct 2014 Life as a Blue Badge Guide: Talk

by Mrs Botwright

Bournemouth Boscombe and Southbourne

Milton BH25 6EA Second Tuesday of each month at 10.15am 09 Sep 2014 The Great Liners: Talk by Bert Moody 14 Oct 2014 Lawrence before and after Arabia: Talk by Colin Van Geffen 11 Nov 2014 Age Concern: Talk by Judith Livingstone

Bournemouth Ringwood and District

Ron Fisher, Chairman T: 01202 896315 E: ronf.nottington@homecall.co.uk Greyfriars Community Centre, 44 Christ Church Road, Ringwood BH24 1DW First Friday of each month at 10am. Pub lunches are 12 noon for 12.30pm. Any change of venue will be announced at the preceding coffee morning, or ask the Committee.

05 Sep 2014 Ringwood’s Secret Army: Talk

by John Hawkins 16 Sep 2014 Pub Lunch at The Fish, Ringwood 05 Oct 2014 A Saga of Sunken Secrets: Talk

by Mrs Shirley Critchley 21 Oct 2014 Pub Lunch at The Three Legged Cross, Woolsbridge 07 Nov 2014 Dorset Hill Forts and their Landscape: Talk by Paul Sturgess 18 Nov 2014 Annual Lunch at the Mayfair Hotel in Bournemouth, 12 for 12.45pm (provisional)

Bournemouth Swanage Mrs Irene Greenaway T: 01929 423394

Bournemouth Wimborne and Ferndown

Eric Basire T: 01202 897158 E: eric-rita@tiscali.co.uk Ferndown Village Hall, Church Road, Ferndown BH22 9ET Third Wednesday of each month at 10.30am

Brighton and Hove

Mrs A Cobby E: saglibcob@googlemail.com Ventnor Hall, Blatchington Road, Hove BN3 3YF First Wednesday of the month at 2.15pm

Paul Tabor, Chairman T: 01202 422493 E: paul.tabor@tesco.net St Katherine’s Church Hall, Church Road, Southbourne BH6 4AR First Wednesday of each month at 10am 03 Sep 2014 Mission Aviation Fellowship: Talk by Michael Bowler 01 Oct 2014 The Edinburgh Military Tattoo: Talk by Malcolm Torrent 05 Nov 2014 The Work of the Hengistbury Head Rangers: Talk by Brian Heppenstall

Burgess Hill

Bournemouth Central

Chandlers Ford

Alan Carter T: 01202 292720

Bournemouth Christchurch and Highcliffe Paul Tabor T: 01202 422493 E: paul.tabor@tesco.net

Bournemouth New Forest

Sandy Whittaker, Chairman T: 023 8028 2157 New Milton Community Centre, Osborne Road, New

Mike Mason, Chairman T: 01444 245289 E: michael_mason6@hotmail.com Majorie Mason, Secretary T: 01444 245289 Helen Fisher, Treasurer T: 01444 236841 Millfield Suite, Cyprus Hall, Cyprus Road, Burgess Hill RH15 8DX Fourth Wednesday of each month at 10am 24 Sep 2014 Marjorie Mason’s Travel Quiz (Part 2) 22 Oct 2014 Pets as Therapy: Talk by Mrs Tijou with Lucy

Ken Willcocks, Chairman T: 023 8076 0102 Chandlers Ford Community Centre, Hursley Road, Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh Hampshire SO53 2FT First Friday of the month at 10am 05 Sep 2014 Put your Best Face Forward: Talk by Jane Glennie 03 Oct 2014 Keeping Hens in the Garden: Talk by Carlotte Popescu 16 Oct 2014 Skittles/Lunch at Wellow Golf Club 10am to 3pm 07 Nov 2014 Cheese and Wine Event in the Meeting Hall

Crawley

Jim Piercey, Chairman T: 01293 409332 Bill Buck Room, Crawley Library, Southgate Avenue, Crawley RH10 6HG Fourth Friday of the month at 2pm 26 Sep 2014 Brighton Piers: Talk by Jim Piercey 24 Oct 2014 Living in Crawley in the 1950s: Talk by Grace Butterfield

Emsworth and Havant

Glenda Treagust, Chairman T: 023 92 481699 The Pastoral Centre 19 High Street, Emsworth, Hampshire PO10 7AQ First Friday of each month at 10.30am

Hastings and St Leonards

John Hall, Chairman T: 01424 813393 All Saints Church Hall, All Saints Street, Hastings TN34 3BG Third Tuesday of each month from 10am to 12 noon 16 Sep 2014 Michael Hoad: Illustrated Talk 21 Oct 2014 Collective Legal Solutions: Talk 18 Nov 2014 John Hall: Talk

Newbury

Roger Walker, Chairman T: 01635 44575 E: colonelrog@hotmail.com St John’s Church Room, Newtown Road, Newbury RG14 Second Monday of the month at 2.15pm 08 Sep 2014 Across Sinai on a Camel: Talk

by Betty Collins Skittles Night at FC Thatcham 18 Sep 2014 13 Oct 2014 Life of a Violin Maker: Talk by Philip Brown Pub Lunch 16 Oct 2014 03 Nov 2014 Committee Meeting at Broadway House 10 Nov 2014 Life and Work of Lewis Carroll: Talk by Roger Askew

Portsmouth and Southsea

Edda Rea, Chairman T: 023 92 753581 St Simon’s Church Hall, Waverley Road, Southsea PO5 2PW Second Wednesday of the month at 10.30am and fourth Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm

Reading West and Tilehurst David Cox, Secretary T: 0118 958 6311 United Reformed Church Hall, Polsted Road (off Armour Road), Tilehurst, Reading RG31 6HN Last Wednesday of the month at 2pm (unless otherwise stated)

Stubbington

Peter Stilwell, Secretary T: 023 92 527346 E: amy_stilwell@hotmail.com Catholic Church Hall, Bells Lane, Stubbington, Hampshire PO14 2PL Second Thursday of each month at 2pm (meeting) and last Tuesday of each month at 10.30am (coffee morning). On the Tuesday following the Thursday meeting we have a pub lunch. On the last Thursday of the month we have lunch at a local pub and play skittles.

23 Sep 2014 Trip to Bashley for a Swinging Sixties show (cost £40 which includes two course lunch and cream tea): library pick up time 11am

Tadley

Mr D MacLean, Chairman T: 0118 970 1290 Tadley Community Centre Newchurch Road Tadley RG26 4HN First Thursday of each month at 1.15pm for

1.45pm (except in unusual circumstances when advance notice is given to our members) 04 Sep 2014 Blue Lamp Trust Fire and Rescue Service 02 Oct 2014 Open Meeting and Bell Ringers 06 Nov 2014 The Story of the Mary Rose: Talk by Alan Turton

Worthing

David Keeling, Chairman T: 01903 248663 United Reformed Church Hall, Shaftesbury Avenue, Worthing BN12 4ET (just south of Durrington Railway Bridge Entrance In Barrington Road) Third Tuesday of each month at 10am (coffee at 9.45am) 16 Sep 2014 Local Policing: Talk by Jo Banks 21 Oct 2014 Open All Hours: Talk by Steve Harris Bring and Buy Event 18 Nov 2014

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND Amesbury

Mrs Freda Hedge, Secretary T: 01980 590499 Antrobus House, 39 Salisbury Road, Amesbury SP4 7HH First Tuesday of the month at 2pm (unless otherwise stated)

Bath

Roy Burnett, Chairman T: 01225 426583 St John’s Parish Hall, South Parade, Bath BA2 4AF Coffee mornings on the first Thursday of each month at 10.30am. Short Mat Bowls at The Scout Hut, The Avenue, Bath on Fridays from 2pm to 4pm 04 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning 29 Sep- 3 Oct 2014 Creative Travel Holiday to Ilfracombe 01 Oct 2014 Trip to the Theatre to see Jesus Christ Superstar 09 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning (please note change of date) 06 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning 19 Nov 2014 Autumn Lunch TBA (please note this is a Wednesday)

Various local restaurants, usually Waterside Usually second Thursday of the month at 12 noon.

Burnham-on-Sea

Mrs Joyce Beard, Secretary/Treasurer T: 01278 782650 E: ohbejoyful2003@yahoo.co.uk Burnham Area Youth Centre, Cassis Close Burnhamon-sea Somerset TA8 1NN Fourth Tuesday of each month from 10.30am

Chard

Gordon Baker, Secretary T: 01460 73333 Donyatt Bowling Club, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 0RG Third Thursday of the month at 10.30am

Chippenham

David Gardner, Chairman T: 01249 658431 Rotary Hall, Station Hill, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 1EG First Wednesday of each month at 2pm 03 Sep 2014 History of Cinema in Chippenham: Talk 01 Oct 2014 To Have and to Hold: Talk 05 Nov 2014 Power of Attorney: Talk

Crediton

Miss M Steer, Chairman T: 01363 866256 Various venues in and around Crediton First Friday of each month at 12 noon for lunch when there is a trip planned. Trips are announced in the local paper. We mostly meet at The Rose and Crown, Sandford, Crediton

Dawlish

Mrs M Carter, Secretary T: 01626 888275 The Manor House, Old Town Street, Dawlish, Devon EX7 9AP Second Friday of each month at 2pm 12 Sep 2014 Outing to Brickley Hill, Tiverton 10 Oct 2014 Quiz 14 Nov 2014 The History of Teddy Bears: Talk

Dorchester

Bideford

Sylvia Moody T: 01237 471334 Griggs Close Community Centre, Northam, Bideford, Devon EX39 1BR Second Friday in the month at 10.30am

Mike Rogers, Chairman/Treasurer T: 01308 420755 E: michael@mikerogers3.plus.com Dorset Youth HQ, Lubbecke Way, Dorchester DT1 1QL Third Thursday of the month at 10.15am for 10.30am till around 1pm 18 Sep 2014 The Burren: Jewel of County Clare: Talk by Charlie Rigeroni

Blandford Forum

Exeter

Mrs Margaret Chambers, Secretary T: 01258 456572 Contact Secretary Or Chairman for venue details Second Friday of each month at 11am

Bradford-on-Avon

Mr M Wickham, Secretary T: 01225 864541 E: lindamorgan1975@btinternet.com United Reformed Church Hall, St Margarets Street, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DD Second Monday of each month at 2.15pm 07-13 Sep 2014 Group Holiday to Eastbourne 08 Sep 2014 No meeting 13 Oct 2014 Monkton Farleigh Mines: Talk

by Nick McCamley 27 Oct 2014 Lunch at The Dog and Fox 10 Nov 2014 Tales of a Country Policeman’s Wife: Talk by Romy Wyeth 20 Nov 2014 Christmas Shopping Trip to Gloucester Quays

Brixham

Brenda Smith T: 01803 559466 E: brenda54@talktalk.net

Mrs Cathy Tyrrell, Chairman T: 01392 879022 Contact the Chairman for further details

Exmouth

Carol Brett, Secretary T: 01395 442671 Wings Club, Imperial Road, Exmouth, Devon EX8 1DB First Wednesday of each month at 9.45am 03 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning 01 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning 05 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning

Liskeard and Pensilva

Shirley Waye, Chair/Secretary T: 01579 346089 E: shirleywaye@gmail.com Refreshment Rooms, Liskeard Public Hall, West Street, Liskeard, Cornwall PL14 6BW Last Wednesday of each month at 10am 10 Sep 2014 Padstow Boat Trip and Supper 25 Sep 2014 Speaker (TBA) 15 Oct 2014 Tenpin Bowling and Lunch 29 Oct 2014 Christmas Bazaar and Lunch 19 Nov 2014 Group meeting (please note change of date)

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Princetown

Mike Fitzpatrick, Secretary T: 01822 890799 E: mikeandkate3@talktalk.net Prince of Wales, Tavistock Road, Princetown PL20 6QF First Thursday of the month at 12.30pm 21 Sep 2014 Coach Trip to a mystery venue.

There will be hospitality stops including lunch and dinner.

16 Oct 2014 Coach Trip to honour the spirits and sprites of hop fields, orchards and vineyards. At least six venues will be visited and evening dinner is included.

06 Nov 2014 Armageddon 1914: Talk by Robert Hesketh

Salisbury Plain

Mr Roy German, Secretary T: 01980 653446 E: royandvi@live.co.uk The Village Hall, High Street, Durrington, Salisbury SP4 8AD Third Tuesday of each month at 2.30pm 16 Sep 2014 From Last to Landlady: Talk by Linda Turner 23 Sep 2014 Outing to Poole 21 Oct 2014 Salisbury, a Tale of Two Cities: Talk by Mrs D Goetz 03-07 Nov 2014 Turkey and Tinsel Holiday Blackpool 18 Nov 2014 The Antarctic, South Georgia and the Falklands: Talk by Mr R White

Sidmouth

Margaret Adams, Chairman T: 01395 577622 E: rjadams39@waitrose.com Sidholme Hotel, Elysian Fields, Sidmouth EX10 8UJ Second Wednesday of each month at 10.25am and lunches listed below at 12.30pm Lunch at Blinis, Sidmouth 24 Sep 2014 22 Oct 2014 Lunch at Cinnamon Tree Restaurant, Sidmouth

Somerton

Colin McIntyre, Secretary T: 01458 223953 The Two Brewers Leigh Road Street Somerset BA16 0HB Third Tuesday of the month at 11.30am

Tamar/Tavy (Tavistock)

David Askew, Secretary E: daveandjennyaskew@gmail.com Burrator Inn Princetown Road Dousland Yelverton PL20 6NP Second Thursday of the month at 12.30pm 09 Sep 2014 Bee Keeping: Talk by Lee Bailey

Taunton

Mick Grigg, Chairman T: 01823 272046 E: mfgrigg@talktalk.net Lawns Social Club (formerly Royal British Legion Club), Mary Street, Taunton TA1 3PE Second Friday of the month at 10.30am (if Public Holiday then third Friday) 12 Sep 2014 Scottish Dancing: Verlie Croft and Team 10 Oct 2014 Talk: Tony Bagwell (subject to be confirmed) 14 Nov 2014 Bring and Buy Cakes/Bric-aBrac

Trowbridge

Peter Collins, Secretary T: 01225 340580 E: csrftrow@which.net The Old Manor Hotel, Trowle, Trowbridge BA14 8PT First Wednesday of each month at 10.30am (Old Manor Hotel) and third Wednesday of each

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month at 2pm (Trowbridge Cricket Club The County Ground Lower Court Trowbridge BA14 8PX) 03 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning at the Old Manor Hotel 17 Sep 2014 To be arranged 01 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning at the Old Manor Hotel 15 Oct 2014 Cruise from Hell: Talk by Linda Dowsett 05 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning at the Old Manor Hotel 19 Nov 2014 The London Marathon and Charity Afasic

Westbury (Wiltshire)

Ken Holloway, Chairman T: 01373 864049 E: kenmoholloway@metronet.co.uk Paragon Hall, Haynes Road, Westbury, Wiltshire BA13 3HA Third Monday of each month at 1.45pm for 2pm 15 Sep 2014 NSG Gardens: Talk by Mr D Moon 17 Sep 2014 Outing to Christchurch/Forest (Cream Tea) 15 Oct 2014 Autumn Lunch (Portland 20 Oct 2014 Auction 17 Nov 2014 A Seasonal Celebration: Talk by Mrs J Lane 19 Nov 2014 Oakham Treasures Portbury/ Cribbs Causeway Shopping

Westbury-on-Trym

Beryl Webb, Secretary T: 01454 614451 Studland Court Henleaze Road Henleaze BS9 4JY First Thursday of each month at 2pm

Weston-Super-Mare

Alan Jackson, Chairman T: 01275 858766 E: jackson-a21@sky.com Friends Meeting House, High Street, Weston-SuperMare BS23 1JF First and third Thursday of the month at 10am 04 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning 09 Sep 2014 Outing to Lyme Regis 18 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning Coffee Morning 02 Oct 2014 14 Oct 2014 Outing to Batsford Arboretum 16 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning 06 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning/AGM 11 Nov 2014 Outing to Plymouth 20 Nov 2014 Coffee Morning

Weymouth

Geoff Greenstreet, Secretary T: 01305 832432 St Nicholas Church, Buxton Road, Weymouth DT4 9PJ Second Thursday of each month at 2.30pm and fourth Wednesday for coffee mornings at the Coffee Shop in the Weymouth Bay Methodist Church, Melcombe Avenue, near Green Hill (unless otherwise stated) 11 Sep 2014 Tune up the Wireless: Talk by Peter Foster 24 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning 29 Sep-13 Oct 2014 Group Holiday to Spain Coffee Morning 22 Oct 2014 13 Nov 2014 Safety in the Home: Talk by the Fire Service

Yate and District

Donald Kirkham, Chairman T: 01454 317242 E: donald@kirkham3.orangehome.co.uk Yate Parish Hall, Station Road, Yate BS37 4PQ Fourth Tuesday of the month at 2pm 23 Sep 2014 Bristol Life: Talk by Mike Hooper 28 Oct 2014 Peoples Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA): Talk by Mrs Hollenshaw

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST ENGLAND Bexleyheath

Brian O’Brien-Wheeler, Chairman T: 020 8311 1608 St Andrews Church Hall, Brampton Road, Bexleyheath, Kent DA7 5SF First three Wednesdays in every month at 1.45pm to 3.45pm 03 Sep 2014 Bexley Pensioners Forum: Talk

by Terry Murphy 10 Sep 2014 Social Afternoon 17 Sep 2014 Age Exchange: Talk by Ralph Gooding 01 Oct 2014 Blowing my own Trumpet: Talk

by Roy Bilham 08 Oct 2014 Social Afternoon 15 Oct 2014 Putting Plants away for Winter: Talk by George Puddefoot 05 Nov 2014 The Good, the Bad and Bexley: Talk by William Cooban 12 Nov 2014 Social Afternoon 19 Nov 2014 The Work of Bexley Trading Standards: Talk by Tina Gibbons

Camberley

Anne Morris, Chairman T: 01344 772419 E: anne.morris@btinternet.com High Cross Church, Knoll Road, Camberley GU15 3SY Fourth Tuesday of the month at 2pm for an informal get-together

Enfield

Mrs Susan Bentley, Secretary T: 020 8360 4361 St Andrew’s Church Hall, Silver Street, Enfield EN1 3EG First Monday of the month at 10am (unless a Bank Holiday when it will be the second Monday).

Bookings now being taken for Christmas Lunch on 4 December 2014 01 Sep 2014 Lost for Words: Talk by Mrs Rita Christie, a speech writer 06 Oct 2014 Railways of Devon and Beyond: Illustrated talk by Brenda Brown 03 Nov 2014 Funny Guys: Illustrated talk by Geoff Bowden

Harrow

Mr Brian Porter, Secretary T: 020 8427 7504 St Albans Church Hall, Norwood Drive, North Harrow HA2 7PF Last Tuesday of the month at 2pm 30 Sep 2014 Teachers: Talk by D J Pearson

Hounslow

Roy Woods, Chairman T: 020 8230 5533 United Reformed Church Hall, 114 Hanworth Road, Hounslow TW3 1UF Second Tuesday of the each month from 1.30pm to 4pm 09 Sep 2014 Celebration tea for HRH Prince George’s First Birthday 14 Oct 2014 Sale 11 Nov 2014 Free Meeting

Kingston and District

Mrs Jean Hall, Secretary T: 020 8942 2309 Kingston Methodist Church Hall, Avenue Road, Kingston KT1 2UJ Third Tuesday of each month at 2pm 16 Sep 2014 Board Games, Tea and Cakes 21 Oct 2014 Life in Leeds Fire Brigade 1925-

1941: Talk by David McKinlay 18 Nov 2014 Christmas on the Home Front: Talk by Mike Brown

Leatherhead

Anne Thomson, Secretary T: 01372 373258 E: anner.thomson@talktalk.net John Rumble Hall, Fetcham Village Hall, The Street, Fetcham KT22 9QS First Friday of each month at 10am 05 Sep 2014 Ashstead and Leatherhead Local: Talk by Zen George, Publisher 03 Oct 2014 History of Guildford Cathedral: Talk by Brian Hennegan 07 Nov 2014 Kensington Palace: Talk by Nigel Arch

London Catford and Lewisham

Doreen Hughes, Secretary T: 020 8461 4800 St Laurence Church Hall, 37 Bromley Road, Catford London SE6 2TS Second Tuesday of every month at 10am. We have a Table Top Sale at each Coffee Morning and all donations will be gratefully received.

London Clapham SW4 and SW11

Miss M Farley, Secretary T: 020 8870 7361 Staff Restaurant, 4th Floor, PCS, 160 Falcon Road London SW11 2LN First Thursday of each month at 10.15am

London Croydon, Dulwich and Norwood

Miss M Bacon, Secretary T: 020 8761 2158 Railway Club, Selhurst Station Approach, Selhurst SE25 5PL Fourth Tuesday of each month at 10.30am 23 Sep 2014 Animal Sculptures: Talk by Enid Stockwell Royal British Legion Poppy Fair 28 Oct 2014

London Edmonton

Mrs Sheila Lamonte, Chairperson T: 020 8886 7873 Sue Sims, Secretary T: 020 8245 4723 Ambassador Room, Millfield House, Silver Street, London N18 1PJ Third Monday of each month from 10am to 12 noon 15 Sep 2014 Down Mexico Way: Illustrated talk by Ian Torrance 20 Oct 2014 My Experiences in Education: Talk by Sheila Palmer 17 Nov 2014 To be arranged

London Eltham

Phyllis Duignan, Chair and Treasurer T: 020 8265 0810 E: phyllis.duignan@gmail.com United Reformed Church, Sherard Hall, Court Road, Eltham SE9 5AD Fourth Thursday of each month from 10am to 12 noon 11 Sep 2014 Coach Outing to Whitstable visiting the Castle and Gardens 25 Sep 2014 Coffee Morning followed by a talk by Michael Gilbert on ‘Albertopolus’ 09 Oct 2014 Coach Outing to Heaven Farm (including lunch) 23 Oct 2014 Coffee Morning followed by a Bring and Buy Sale 30 Oct 2014 Visit to Her Majesty’s Theatre to see Phantom of the Opera 14 to 16 Nov 2014 Airedales Holiday to Thursford Christmas Spectacular (cost £287.00)

London Hendon

Mr Harry Hunt, Secretary T: 020 8202 7647 E: harrycarman@hotmail.com Various venues for pub lunches. Contact Harry Hunt for details First Thursday of every month at 12.30pm

London Southbank

Joy Creamer, Chairperson T: 020 7407 2332 Penrose Tenants Hall, Penrose Estate, Walworth London SE17 3DX Second Wednesday of each month at 10am

London Stockwell SW8 and SW9

Mr D Stannard, Secretary T: 020 7720 0982 Job Centre Plus Offices, 246 Stockwell Road, London SW9 9ST Fourth Thursday of each month at 2pm (except December)

London Streatham and Norbury SW16

Mrs J E Winter, Secretary T: 020 8764 6450 The Glebe Sheltered Housing Complex, Prentis Road, London SW16 1QR Second Tuesday of each month at 2pm Another popular Beetle Drive 09 Sep 2014 14 Oct 2014 Banstead Accordion Band 11 Nov 2014 AGM (2.15pm to 3.15pm) followed by our Annual Bring and Buy (bring something for sale but not clothing please)

Maidstone

Keith Hunter, Chairman T: 01622 746792 Methodist Church Centre, Brewer Street, Maidstone ME14 1RU Second Monday of the month at 2pm 08 Sep 2014 Life and Times and Ken Rowles: Talk by one of our members 13 Oct 2014 Talk about Maidstone Day Centre 10 Nov 2014 Xmas Fayre, Quiz and Raffle

Orpington

Peter Standen Vice, Chairman T: 01689 833358 The Memorial Hall Methodist Church, Sevenoaks Road, Orpington BR6 9JH First Friday in the month at 1.45pm

Romney Marsh

Win Owen, Chair T: 01797 362598 E: winefrideowen@aol.com The Assembly Rooms Church Approach, New Romney, Kent TN28 8AS Second Wednesday of the month from 10am to 12 noon 10 Sep 2014 A Stroll along the Nailbourne Valley: Talk by Peter Ewart 08 Oct 2014 Don’t do that, it’s against the law: Talk by Roger McKenna 12 Nov 2014 The Cinque Ports of Kent and Sussex: Talk by Dick Bolton

Sanderstead and Selsdon

Ralph Perryman, Local Contact T: 020 8657 3487 E: ralph.peryman172@btinternet.com Various venues for lunch. Please contact Ralph Perryman for confirmation of lunch details.

09 Oct 2014 Lunch at Toby Carvery Brighton Road 20 Nov 2014 Lunch at Toby Carvery Brighton Road

South East Middlesex

E: junebrownuk@hotmail.com Various venues in and around Twickenham. Please contact the Secretary for further details.

25 Sep 2014 Titsey Place, Oxted: Guided tour of house and gardens

Staines Dorothy Dib, Secretary T: 01784 441990 Various restaurants for lunch in and around Staines Third Tuesday of each month

Sutton Pam Davis, Social Secretary T: 020 8641 2114 Friends Meeting House, 10 Cedar Road, Sutton SM2 5DA Last Monday of the month from 2pm to 3.45pm 15 Sep 2014 Informal Lunch at The Old Bank, Sutton 29 Sep 2014 Monthly Meeting. The Story of the Lambeth Midwives: Talk by Robert Holden 15 Oct 2014 Informal Lunch (TBC) 27 Oct 2014 Monthly Meeting. The Life of an Auctioneer: Talk by Mr Hawkins Informal Lunch (TBC) 10 Nov 2014 24 Nov 2014 Monthly Meeting. American Supper

Whitstable and Herne Bay (inc. Canterbury) Linda Swift T: 01227 276583 E: lindaswift2@sky.com Swalecliffe and Chestfield Community Centre, St Johns Road, Whitstable CT5 2QU Fourth Thursday of the month at 2pm 25 Sep 2014 Home was a Boat: Talk 23 Oct 2014 The Woodland Trust: Talk

Worcester Park Peter Tharby, Chairman T: 020 8337 7423 E: petertharby@blueyonder.co.uk Old Malden Scout Hall, 411 Malden Road, Worcester Park KT4 7NY First Monday each month from 2pm to 4pm (if the first Monday is a Bank Holiday then meeting will be held on the second Monday) 01 Sep 2014 Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance Expedition: Talk by Carol Harris 06 Oct 2014 Our annual visit from Sandra Winter who will present a new Bell Ringing Programme 03 Nov 2014 Fund Raising Day, including Raffles, Cake Stall, Bring and Buy and a fun Team Quiz

NO GROUP IN YOUR AREA? Then we’d like to help you establish one. If you’d be interested in working with us to open up a new group for your area then contact David or Belinda at Fellowship Office on 020 8691 7411.

Mrs June Brown, Secretary T: 020 8891 4680

www.csrf.org.uk AUTUMN 2014

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the last word : Martin Carthy

my favourite THINGS

Musician Martin Carthy is one of folk music’s leading figures. Having been a BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year twice already, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. His most recent album, The Moral of the Elephant, recorded with his daughter Eliza Carthy, was released in June.

Piece of music

That’s a hard one! When I went on Desert Island Discs, one of the first pieces I chose was La Partenza.

It’s in the musical style called ‘trallalero’, which was originally from Genoese longshoremen singing all the ranges, from bass to male soprano. It’s astounding just how clever ordinary people can be.

PAINTING

For years, my favourite was El Greco’s The Agony in the Garden. I just loved the painter overall; I thought he was weird and wonderful and totally unlike anyone else. More recently, there are a couple of Caravaggios, like Judith and Holofernes, which have a similar sense of movement in them.

FILM

One of my favourites is Fellini’s La Strada. I actually first saw it because it was running first in a double bill with Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. By the time the second film came on, I was utterly drained and amazed

by La Strada.

NOVEL

I love all sorts but particularly Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse Five. I read it the first time and I just didn’t get it at all but it haunted me. I read it again and I laughed all the way through. Then I read it a third time and I felt so sad. To have a book do those three wildly different things to you, on three separate readings, is something you remember.

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AUTUMN 2014 www.csrf.org.uk

CITY

I like Norwich. It’s a forgotten corner, as far as cities are concerned. It’s lovely.

ANIMAL

I’m a cat person.

We have one, a tabby, who’s particularly beautifully marked. She was brought over as a kitten and immediately decided to own me.

Historical FigureS

Paine, Gandhi, Mandela: anyone who was brave and stood up to be counted when everything was against them.

Quotation

I rather like Gandhi’s response to a journalist who asked him what he thought of Western civilisation:

“I think it would be a good idea”

FLOWER

It has to be the rose. I love the smell.