Kettering U3A
15th November 2016 Kettering U3A Year 13 Newsletter 5 Next Month
15th November
A Tudor Christmas by Martin Sirot-Smith From the Chairman— “What is this life if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare?” wrote W H Davies (1871 -1940). Time. Where does it go to? It seems not five minutes ago I was putting the clocks forward; now they’ve gone back, and I’m aware of deadlines, looming and missed, emails saved but unanswered, birthdays5 Oh, the list is endless. Yet is it the rushing forward of modern life that makes history so fascinating? It may not be the weather for standing about staring at cows, but we love to look at the bygone and the traditional. Last month – candles; this month – back to the Tudors, with Christmas in mind. Next month? Dive back into your “dressing-up” boxes. At the very least, grab some glitter; make the Yuletide bright. AND please note the timings for next month’s meeting: in your seats, tubes tuned by 2pm. No time for hanging about! Ho ho ho.
Mary Next Month
13th December
Christmas Meeting NOTE: 1 week earlier than usual
U3A Singers plus Fancy Dress Competition Registered Charity No. 1108614
www.u3aKettering.co.uk 1
or
www.u3asites.org.uk/kettering
Kettering U3A
Group Leaders Information • • • • • •
Check that all members of your group are fully paid-up members of the U3A. Ensure that you have:A written record showing your member’s name, address, telephone number and email address. The name and telephone of each member’s In Case of Emergency contact. (ICE) The post code of your venue as this will be required by the emergency services should you need to call them out. Send articles, reports and photographs about your group to the Newsletter Editor. Copy deadline for the newsletter is 2 Saturdays before the monthly meeting. To put additional information and/or photographs on your Group’s web page on the Kettering U3A website, please email to the Web Master, Richard@Boyles.co.uk or send hardcopy to him. Advise the Group Coordinator of any changes to your group arrangements, e.g. venue, timing, etc. Refreshments The Eden Centre will provide tea, coffee & biscuits at 50p per cup with the U3A members helping to serve.
Members Information
Welcome to new member
Sheila Pearson • • • • •
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Advise the Membership Secretary, in writing, of any changes to your address, post code, telephone number or email address. If you are unable to attend your Group’s meeting, please advise your Group Leader in advance. If you know one of our members has a special occasion ahead, e.g. important birthday, anniversary or if they are ill and you feel a card from the U3A would be appreciated, please contact the secretary. Bring your membership card with you to the meeting and have it available for checking in. If you cannot get to the monthly meeting for any reasons, you can get a copy of the Newsletter:-from either the Library or the Tourist Information desk, Manor House Museum, Kettering or from Desborough, Rothwell or Burton Latimer Libraries. Or via our postal service direct to your home (£10 per annum) Contact the Membership Secretary to do so. Download the newsletter (in glorious colour) from web site, www.U3AKettering.co.uk & click on Links.
2016 Dec 13 U3A Singers + Members Fancy Dress Competition
Apr 18 Charles Rennie Mackintosh Museum— Rob Kendall May 16 Making of Miranda—Miranda Ponsonby Jun 20 Annual General Meeting Jul 18 Kicks & Frills: The story of the French Cancan— David Price Aug 22 Police Files—Bob Thorogood Sep 19 General Knowledge Quiz Oct 17 Magic Lanterns—Mr Grove Nov 21 Gilbert and Sullivan—Bernard Lockett Dec 12 Carols By Candle Light—U3A members (Note meeting one week earlier than normal)
Note meeting one week earlier than normal SEE PAGE 11 2017 Jan 17 Who Do You Think You Are—Nick Barrett Feb 21 Northamptonshire Search & Rescue— Paul Marlow Mar 21 A Career That Lies In Ruins—Colin Oakes
Your Kettering U3A Committee 2016-2017 Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary Treasurer Membership Secretary Speaker Seeker Newsletter/Web site Groups Co-ordinator Committee Member
Mary Wildman 01536 741 222 Shirley Mepham 01536 416 182 Chris Crick 01536 501 131 Elizabeth Toseland 01536 460 029 Diane Tebbutt 01536 392 556 Linda Tyrrell 01536 683 947 Richard Boyles 01536 744 753 Sue Perkins 01536 519438 vacant post 2
marywildman365@gmail.com chris.crick@hotmail.co.uk elizabethtoseland@outlook.com di_tebbutt@hotmail.com lindaj.tyrrell@gmail.com richard@boyles.co.uk lazygirl_tresham@yahoo.co.uk
Kettering U3A
News — Interest Groups — Visits and Reports Bookworms — We have been reading The Lake District Murder, a Crime Classic, by John Bude, in which a body is found at an isolated garage. Set in the l930's, it is a tale of intrigue, and the crime is solved without the assistance of DNA by Inspector Meredith, a motor bike and sidecar rider, soon promoted to Superintendent Meredith.
Our CHRISTMAS meeting at the Eden Centre, 21, Montagu Street, Kettering Format of the meeting:-
SEE PAGE 11
If you enjoy reading, we meet on a monthly basis to discuss that month's book, and have room for a couple more members.
Wheelchair disabled access is available at the rear by phoning 01536 484 800
Next meeting - 23rd November.
There is now a hearing loop installed at the Eden Centre. You should sit near the sign on the left of the hall when looking towards the stage.
Contact:
Pauline Parkin 01536 799 197 paulineparkin@hotmail.com
Bridge - We have a very friendly Bridge group who meet every Friday afternoon. If you can play Bridge but perhaps have not done so for a little while then please come and join us. I must say, however, that we do not teach it and therefore you must have some knowledge of the game to be able to join. You would be made very welcome. We start each Friday at 1.30pm at the Bridge Club in Field Street and we now pay £1.50 each week and for that you get good company, a very interesting game and refreshments.
Newsletter DEADLINE— is 2 Saturdays before the monthly meeting.
You can read and download the newsletter in FULL COLOUR from our internet page at
www.U3AKettering.co.uk
Contact: Sue Macfarlane 01536 523754
Contact: Richard Boyles 01536 744 753 richard@boyles.co.uk
Busy Needles and Banter — Full house this month and lots of creativity as well as laughter and opportunity for canine blackmail: I’ll return your wool if you make it worth my while – one ball of chunky must be worth a sugar lump. Woof. In the photos are displayed another magnificent Tucker blanket and sundry knitwear including a small blue cardie, modelled by Harriet, and Wilson in yellow coat and “mitre” – I think he looks like a Tsar; Sue thinks he’s portraying Good King Wenceslas. (More photos overleaf) Mary Wildman 01536 741 222 marywildman365@gmail.com
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Kettering U3A
Canals & Waterways— We enjoyed a lovely day out at the Black Country Museum. The boat trip was interesting and we had a 'legging' contest, men versus women. Of course the men said that they won!!
Busy Needles and Banter —
The volunteers sitting in the old houses gave interesting information, sometimes in regional accents. Some of us recognised items from our childhood. The food was very good in the workers canteen and those who had fish and chips were able to join us there. A good time was had by all. Our annual planning meeting is at Stanwick Lakes on November 17th. We meet for a walk at 11.0am followed by our pre-ordered meals and a discussion of next years programme. Our Xmas lunch is at the Waterfront restaurant, Union
Card Making — It was lovely to meet new crafter's who came with a bag of enthusiasm and their scissors. We started with a scraps card background , learning to do layering , and using different glues. Next came our poppy card, followed by the log cabin card. One of our new ladies to the group was a quilter, so she recognised the pattern immediately. Should you wish to join our enthusiastic group, please contact me. Contact: Marian Tucker 01536 510 354 mariantucker1954@gmail.com
Canal Market Harborough on 15th December at 1.0pm. I will need food choices by 26th November, but these can be given at the planning meet or the next U3A meeting. I shall have a copy of the menu with me at both of these events. Contact: Christine Strachan 01536 515730 cestrachan1@gmail.com
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Kettering U3A
Creative Cards — The Group had a very enjoyable day with Ann North where we put together a card version of a Ginger House and a monochrome Christmas Bauble card. We were also able to use Ann’s collection of card making equipment which is always great fun. In November we will be continuing with our Christmas Cards and will be making two Iris folding cards that we haven’t tried before. Although the group is full at the moment, if you would like to put your names on a waiting list if any vacancies come up, please contact either of the Group Leaders
Country Matters — October’s visit was to the northern most part of Fineshade Woods. It was a damp drive to the venue but luckily rain didn’t stop play, as we left the Royal Oak Pub in Duddington having used their facilities and booked our lunch a
Contact: Eileen Mason
01536 725 925 edmason5@yahoo.co.uk or Maggi McGuire 01536 392 716 maggi.mcguire@outlook.com
Computer Group — At the November meeting the subject was all aspect of using E-mail.
hazy sun was trying to come through the cloud. Having carefully crossed the busy A43 road we went up to the woods following the Jurassic Way. A lot of the trees were still various shades of green but some had started changing into their autumnal hues. We spotted quite a lot of fungi and also some eau-de-cologne mint. Exiting the woods, we enjoyed great views across the Welland Valley. Continuing on our way downhill we saw quite a few interesting shrubs in the hedgerow. We all enjoyed a good meal in the pub and gave ourselves a pat on the back for managing to avoid the rain. Next meeting will have taken place - a walk in the woods on 10 November 10.15am for 10.30am start from The Sundew – the Harvester pub which is situated on the right-hand side, across the ‘hamburger roundabout’ on the northern end of Kettering going towards Corby.
More information and videos can be accessed from Computer Group link at
www.U3AKettering.co.uk Contact: Richard Boyles 01536 744 753 e-mail: richard@boyles.co.uk As always, you can email me for any computer related advice or problems. Discussion Group — The next meeting will be Tuesday 8th November at the Parish Church Rooms at the usual time 2pm. The subject will be "How have we benefited from the success of Team GB at the London and Rio Olympics?" So running spikes on all you prospective Mo Farah’s - starting blocks will be provided If any member of the group is thinking of standing down please let me know soonest as we now have a list of hopeful new members bursting with subjects for discussion. For further information Contact: Richard Ling
Please note there will not be a meeting in December this year as ours often coincides with other Christmas dinners etc. of the other groups. Contact:
Derek Warren 01536 518 560 derek@thewarrens.me.uk
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01536 515 816 b_r_ling@hotmail.com
Kettering U3A
English Studies/Shakespeare— Continues with Chaucer’s Wife of Bath’s Tale. Malory next possibly? This group is pupil-driven: we look at whatever is requested. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Monday afternoons from 2 to 4pm (the time flies by) at Mary’s. If you are interested contact Mary Wildman. (Please note owing to Singing commitments in December this group may meet somewhat haphazardly.)
English Country Dancing — We continue to enjoy our dancing. We will welcome anyone who wishes to join us. No need to bring a partner. We meet at St. Andrew Church Hall 10.30-noon on 2nd & 4th Weds. of each month. Contact: Jean Beaver 01933 224 474 beaver.jean@yahoo.co.uk
Contact: Mary Wildman 01536 741 222 marywildman365@gmail.com Friday Pop-In - We had the largest turnout we have seen - even more than last month’s in spite of one or two absences through illness and house-moving.
Family History - In our November meeting we will have heard a talk about Wills and Non Conformist Records by our host, Katrina Friess.
This meant some re-arranging of tables and chairs to accommodate everyone, but the Kino staff were brilliant here, unobtrusively making sure that we were comfortable and ensuring that we were well fed and watered. New faces included long-term KU3A members as well as Chris who had not been before and was testing the waters; we do hope that they enjoyed the morning even half as much as the rest of us did. They certainly contributed to the cheerful atmosphere. The will of John Byles of Charlbury dated 1749 Next Meetings: 12 Dec - My (Somewhat Haphazard) Journey Through Family History - Diane Sweeney 09 Jan - Brick Walls Workshop 3 - Bring Your Laptop & YOUR brick walls & we'll help each other find that elusive ancestor. If you would like to join us, even if just see what it’s all about, feel free to come along, we have plenty of room for new members and visitors. Keep checking the web site below for new hints, tips, tutorials and resources.
Next month’s meeting is on the first Friday of the month (2 December), same time (10:00 - about 11:30), same place (the Kino Lounge, Market Place, next door to Mr Ray’s). Looking forward to seeing you there we can smell the coffee already!
www.U3AKettering.co.uk Contact: Richard Boyles
01536 744 753 richard@boyles.co.uk
Contact: Janet Chivers 01536 214 250 janet.chivers@talk21.com 6
Kettering U3A
History - At the October meeting John Meads of the Burton Latimer Heritage Centre gave us a very informative talk on the origin and development of Burton Latimer. This covered its development from an agricultural village through to shoe making, garment making, the start up of Weetabix and also Alumasc. With the aid of old photographs we saw how the village developed into a small town, with a reduction in the number of farms, its role during WW1 and 11, the start up of shops and how these have changed into the present Burton Latimer. The subject of the November meeting will be “The Gunpowder Plot”, which involved quite a few of the wealthy families in Northamptonshire. The group meet on the first Monday of each month at the Counties Community Centre, Hertford Road, Kettering (off the Pytchley Road). Doors open at 2pm and the presentation/talk commences at about 2.15pm. A charge of £2.00 is made for each meeting which covers the cost of hiring the hall, the speaker and a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits. Kettering Parks Revisited 5th December 2nd January 2017 The Last Naval Hero – Lord Beatty 6th February Rockingham Forest through the Ages 7th March The Street Names of Kettering 3rd April Another Icarus. The rise and fall of Percy Pilcher and the art of Flight. A tragic end in a quiet corner of a Northampton field. Many thanks to all members who help prepare and clear away the meeting room etc. Their help is greatly appreciated. Please let Eileen or Maggi know if any U3A members are able to recommend any History Speakers and let us have their email address or telephone number.
French - 2nd and 4th Tuesday at 2pm Contact: Diana Ellis 01536 723 380 French Conversation - Our venue has been cancelled so it is only upon my return to the UK that I can try to find an alternative. If anyone can suggest a place to meet, please contact me. Contact: Michele Junin 01536 671 971 m.p.junin@outlook.com German Basic Conversation — Contact: Joe Fletcher 01536 722 399 Golf — Our regular group meets at 1.30 pm Fridays at Pytchley Golf Club still seems to be the most popular time !! Contact: Alan Stephens 01536 726 911 or 07931 637 660 or alanstephens26@outlook.com Gardening Group — The group is now closing down for the Winter and will restart in the Spring. Ideas for places to visit or gardens to see are welcome. Contact: Ray Bradbury 01536 516 587 prbrad@live.co.uk
Heartbeat— The next meeting will be in the New Year, Monday 2nd January 2017. Meeting at the carpark at Prologis Park, Glendon Road, Kettering at 10.am.
Contact: Eileen Mason
01536 725 925 edmason5@yahoo.co.uk or Maggi McGuire 01536 392 716
Contact: Bridget Ling 01536 515 816
Knit and Natter - This month we had two birthdays to celebrate so we had a birthday cake and sang to Jackie and Jean, we also learned from Mary the original meaning of the word hospital, all this and we completed a lot of knitting too. Contact: Annette Chidwick 01536 523 867 annette.chidwick@tiscali.co.uk Lunch Club - The Lunch Club participants had a very enjoyable lunch at the Old Friar in Twywell. The food and the company were excellent, with a lot of chatter and laughter. A good time was had by all The November Lunch Club will be held at “The Trading Post” in Kettering and will be hosted by Sue Hince. Those attending will be able to select their meal individually from the extensive menu that is available. Please arrive about 12 noon for 12.30 pm meal. We are a very friendly group and if you would like to come and join us please do so. You will be made very welcome.
Any member who would like a 2017 U3A diary costing £2, please contact our treasurer Elizabeth Toseland who needs names and money by end of November (preferably at today’s meeting)
Contact: Maggi McGuire 01536 392 716 maggi.mcguire@outlook.com 7
Kettering U3A
Lunch Club - LAST CHANCE for Christmas Lunch We are trying a different venue for the Christmas lunch this year. We will be going to The Stirrup Cup, Woodland Avenue in Barton Seagrave on Tuesday 6th of December 2016 at 12 noon for 12.30. Unlike previous years we will have an extensive choice of starter, main course and dessert with complimentary tea or coffee, all at the competitive price of £17.95. As the restaurant is opening especially for us minimum numbers will apply. To be sure of your place a deposit of £10 per person is required. Menu information. Starters are Prawn Cocktail, Cream of Asparagus Soup, Duck and Orange Pate, Melon and Berry Cocktail, Baby Camembert Rounds and Lamb Samosas. For the Main Course you have a choice between Roast Turkey with all the trimmings, Topside of Beef with roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables and Yorkshire puddings, Salmon Fillet in a mixed cream and herb sauce with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables, Mushroom, Cranberry and Brie Wellington with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables. For dessert the choice is between Orange and Cranberry Cheesecake, Lemon Roulade, Christmas Pudding, Salted Caramel Ice Cream, Cheese and Biscuits, Chocolate Brownie with Clotted Cream Ice Cream. All followed by Tea or Coffee ". On this occasion family and friends are more than welcome so why not use this opportunity to push the boat out.
Looking at Churches — In October the group went to Ashby St. Ledgers, which was like stepping back in time. The whole village was historical, with old houses, the huge Manor House owned by the Lord of the Manor, and the house once owned by Robert Catesby, the instigator of the Gunpowder Plot, where the meetings were held. Our guide took us around the village first and pointed out the interesting dwellings. As we went to enter the porch, we were shown scratch marks where people sharpened their swords. Inside there was so much to see. The church is famous for its medieval wall paintings all around the church, including a very clear painting of a skeleton, which was a symbol of the Black Death. Another abundance was brasses on the floors, lots of them. They would be a brass rubber’s delight. The font was fascinating, where they used to immerse the whole child in the holy water, which was only changed once a year. Then there were beautiful wall memorials mostly in marble, and a very ornate shrine.There was also an exhibition on The Gunpowder Plot which was fascinating. When we entered the church we were in for a surprise. There stood a man in 15th century costume, looking like Guy Fawkes. Both of our guides,Pam and Nigel, are in a drama group, and Nigel was portraying Robert Catesby. He was very dramatic, and told us the story from his point of view, leading up to his death in a pistol fight, which was a lot better than the other conspirators, who were mostly hanged, drawn and quartered. We ended our visit with delicious tea and cakes, all made by one hard working churchwarden. Ashby St. Ledger church is struggling to keep going, which is a real pity, as it has so much history. It is well worth a visit. Our next church will be on Wednesday, November 16th, 2.0pm, to Lubenham, Leics. LE16 9TA. The Queen used to attend this small church regularly when she stayed at Lubenham Hall in the 1960s, and I used to cycle over to Lubenham to see her. This will be the last visit of the year, as there is so much going on at Christmas. I am delighted to announce that we have a new leader of the group. This is Janet Flower and she will organise a church tour starting in January. I am so pleased, as we have a loyal group, always approximately 20 people, so it would have been very sad for it to finish. Welcome to Janet from Janet.
Contact: Ray Bradbury 01536 516 587 prbrad@live.co.uk Trip To The Bank of England—Our organiser , Eileen, arrived at the car park before 8:00 to greet the 45 U3A members and a few friends at the start of our journey to London. Our driver Andy, from Collingtree Coach Company, made good time to get us into London for 11:30 ish. Several of us wandered around Leadenhall Market passing The Shard en-route It's a beautiful covered market in the city of London under the elegant Victorian roof there were stalls, entertainers, shops and places to eat. Some of the Harry Potter scenes were filmed there. We were welcomed to the Bank of England by the security guards and handbags etc were x-rayed. We ventured into the museum explaining the history of coins, money and the history of the building. Finally we went to the lecture theatre to listen to and shown several slides on when the Bank of England was built, where it is situated and the history of the building. Our guide explained the history of coins and paper money.
Contact: Janet Clements 01536 507 721 janet.clements@ntlworld.com
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Kettering U3A
Trip To The Bank of England— continued They shred the fakes and old paper notes and it is used to make compost. It was explained how the new £5 need consultation with different organisations including the RNIB. Some lucky employers saw the new £5 being printed. I'm sure the rest of the group will remember more but my attention was distracted by the train rumbling below me. I forgot the Central line was so close. It was then explained where the gold bars were stored and no we didn't get to see them. The rest of the time was spent exploring the rest of the museum. Personally I found this a very interesting place to visit, loved seeing the old pre decimal coins and notes and watching the video on the gold bars. I had my photo taken there , to the amusement of some teenagers as I couldn't do a selfy . Some of us even bought Christmas presents in the shop. On our return journey our lovely coach driver took us on a tour of London, including seeing Trafalgar square, Houses of Parliament and some of the Christmas lights. We realised later that our driver had avoided closures of bridges, closed roads and police blockages. I just loved it. A few of a group got a surprise on the coach as they discovered they had won a raffle prize Eileen had organised. It was a lovely day and it is a huge thank you to Eileen Mason for organising this wonderful trip. Looking forward to the next one. Marian
Photography Group — Because of holidays the next meeting will be a week later, on Monday November 14th, with more images to practise and expand the post-processing skills using Photoshop that are an essential part of modern digital imaging.
Musical Circles 2 — The theme for the October meeting was "M&S". Not "Marks & Spencer" but Mozart and Schubert. By playing alternating pieces of work by these two great composers it was interesting to hear the different approaches and interpretations within the same genre. For symphonic music we heard extracts from Mozart's 25th Symphony (K183) and Schubert's 5th Symphony (D485). A French "chanson" by Mozart ("Dans un bois solitaire" KV308) preceded Schubert's "Du bist die Ruh". Part of Schubert's String Quartet No.13 followed a section of Mozart's String Quartet in G (K387). Mitsuko Uchida was the pianist playing the opening movement from Mozart's Piano Sonata No.2 followed by Schubert's Piano Sonata No.20. Settings for "Kyrie Eleison" were next, from Mozart's Requiem Mass and Schubert's Missa Solemnis. Pieces from Mozart's String Quintet No.5 and Schubert's String Quintet in C (D956) followed, and the afternoon concluded with the opening part of Mozart's Wind Serenade (K361) and the trio from Schubert's Octet (D803). The next meeting of this group will be on Wednesday 16th November
Contact: Trevor Rudkin 01536 711 976 trevor.rudkin@gmail.com Spanish, Intermediate — The Spanish conversation group continues to meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. We have the use of a training room free of charge so our sessions continue to be free. Just occasionally we cannot have the ASDA room and when this happens we have an alternative at a total cost of £12 per session. We use the book Pasos 2 which is for second level students and we are now well on the way to completing that. Because of the size of the ASDA room, we are now really at full capacity but could start a waiting list for anyone who has a good level of understanding of the language (we are currently studying the subjunctive mood of verbs) Contact: Bob Thorogood 01933 650 551 bob@rltservices.co.uk Sugar Craft— If anyone who would like to learn, but feels they are hopeless, come to watch as we work and I guarantee that they will soon realise that they can achieve good results.
Contact: Eileen Mason 01536 725925 edmason5@yahoo.co.uk
Contact: Joan Allingham 01536 722 610 9
Kettering U3A
Singing For Pleasure — Both groups are singing their socks off in readiness for the carol season. Jill’s group (A) have a plethora of bookings coming up; Mary’s group (B) are inspired, too, and working hard towards December 13th. Special welcome to Sheila; special thanks to Marian and Maddie. After Christmas B Group will be returning to folk songs, songs from the shows, you name it. A is full; B still has room for more – men welcome.
Stitchin' Time— One of our knitters, Beatrice, has just reached her 90th birthday, and we celebrated with cake and cups of tea. We pay a nominal sum of 50p per meeting, and during the few months we have been meeting, a total of over £34 has been raised and donated to Cancer Research. Another knitter (I won't mention her name) caused great consternation when a ball of wool became entangled. It was a case of all hands to the deck to help to unravel the tangled mess. Not a lot of work was produced, but we had a very pleasant afternoon. Next meeting - December 7th.
Contact: A Group. Jill Dee 01536 514 054 B Group. Mary Wildman 01536 741 222 marywildman365@gmail.com
Contact:
Safe Driving — Welcome to the dark side With the days getting shorter and darkness falling earlier, it can be a daunting prospect to face driving in the dark for the first time for months. Here are some tips to prepare drivers for driving in the twilight zone from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman: Familiar routes can pose totally different challenges in the dark ,so make sure you are wide awake and looking out for pedestrians and cyclists in the gloom. Check your car lights. They are there for your safety and those around you. Do a daily walk around to check all lights are working and use a wall or garage door to check the rear lights if you are on your own. Changing a bulb on a modern car is often a garage-only job, so get it done before the police stop you and issue a ticket or repair notice. As well as being seen, you need to see so get an eyesight check-up. It is vital to have your sight checked regularly as this may heavily affect your night vision. With age your eyes take in less light, no matter how fit you may feel, so be aware of your limitations. Don’t blind me! One of the biggest night-time hazards is the dazzle affect caused by the bright light from oncoming vehicles. Dip your headlights when you meet other vehicles. Carry a basic emergency kit. Anything can happen at night and it is important to be prepared. Having a tool kit, torch, map and a first aid kit (if you don’t have one already) can make a real difference. A fully charged mobile with the details of your breakdown cover is another must. Richard said: “Per mile driven the risk of a crash is actually higher at night despite the quieter roads. Getting used to night-time driving can take time so take it easy until the old skills come back and you can start to enjoy the new challenges.” www.iamroadsmart.com
Pauline Parkin 01536 799 197 paulineparkin@hotmail.com
Walking Group - The walking group meets on the 1st Wednesday every month at different locations for a walk lasting 2 to 2½ hours starting at 10:00am. These walks are usually between 4 and 6 miles and taken at a relatively leisurely pace. The group generally end the walk with lunch at a local village pub. New members are very welcome; just call or email me using the contact details below. Please note that the next walk details might change (weather, pub issues etc.) so if you are not on my contact list please contact me to confirm the location. We had an excellent turnout of 20 in November for our walk from the Piper pub in Windmill Avenue, Kettering. It was a gloriously sunny day, the frost having melted leaving blue skies and wall to wall sunshine. We walked along the Ise valley, reaching Warkton alongside the brook, then crossing the road past the narrow bridge and continuing on towards Weekley across a field. Once again we commented on the size of the village which isn't properly appreciated as we speed past on the main road in our cars. There are some beautiful properties and gardens in the village, which were much admired. The walk towards the Star pond on the Boughton estate was flanked by rows of trees in their full autumn glory, and on reaching the gate we had to make a right turn and eventually return across the same field. Lots of gorgeous leave in all the autumn shades of gold, russet, red and brown gave the opportunity to release the inner child in some of us - you really do have to kick piles of them up in the air as we used to do as children! We then walked up the hill in Warkton and took a different path past the church and back to the Piper. A small breakaway group took a cheeky shortcut, playing "last one back to the pub is a sissy", but we all arrived at more or less the same time to enjoy our lunches. A most enjoyable walk of approximately six miles in glorious weather. Wouldn't it be great to have the same weather throughout the coming winter?
Our December walk will be from The Bell Public House at High Street, Little Addington NN14 4BD on Wednesday 7th November @10.15am for a 10.30 start. Please note the slightly later start as this walk will be slightly shorter than usual at around 4 miles. For further details about this particular walk please contact John or Ann Kemp on 01536 761241.
If you’d like help with any driving related issues or to find out more about the Safe Driving Group, please contact either
Steve Clorley 01832 732342 or 07973 624815 stephen.clorley@yahoo.com
Contact: John Flower 01536 764 541 john@7678.co.uk
Roy Franklin 01536 482808 or 07751 106617 r.franklin672@btinternet.com
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Kettering U3A
Theatre Goers — At the moment, the group is trying to get a new group leader.
Writers Group— The holidays are over. Our numbers are rising again. This made for a great afternoon at Kettering library sharing our ideas, writing and company. Writings shared included two on the subject of ‘Food and Drink’, ‘The Anniversary Dinner’, a story of culinary frustration from Sandy and a reminiscence of wartime rations from Tom. We had a further chapter from a novel ‘The Clonies’ for young adults. Finally there was the spooky tale ‘Hindsight’ from Elizabeth. Just the thing for Hallowe’en! A six-word memoir or two added a bit of light relief. Sally Angell has some autographed copies of the anthology 'Baubles' to which she contributed ask me to direct you to her at the next meeting on 13 December if you would like a copy. They make an ideal Christmas present. Incidentally, she also had a painting on display in the Kettering and District Art Society ‘Exploring Red’ Autumn Exhibition at the Alfred East Gallery next to the library. There’s not just writing talent in Kettering U3A! Do you write or want to start writing again? A journal, perhaps, your family memoirs, a story or two, or even a full-blown novel? If so, do ask for me, Tom Piercy, at the next third Tuesday monthly meeting (November 15 - but don’t forget that the December meeting is on the second Tuesday, December 13) or just come along and join us. We meet next month as usual on the first Tuesday (6 December), at the same place (Kettering Library) and at the same time (from 1:45 to start at pm, until about 4pm). If you can’t find us just ask at the reception desk - we’ll let them know where we are. Some possible ideas for seasonal subjects to whet your appetite are:
Water Colour Painting Classes The dates for the Autumn Term 2016 are as follows:November 10th, 24th December 8th (last class) (The Winter Term will start again on 12th Jan 2017) We meet in The Parish Hall, Market Place, Kettering, from 1.15 pm to 3.15 pm on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. We are very lucky to have Michael McGuire giving up his free time to help anyone wishing to improve their painting skills Chinese Pictures We all enjoyed David Clayton's Chinese collection of paintings. It was very kind of David to give up his time to come and show our group the wonderful and diverse pictures he has collected on his travels to China and Thailand.
Under the Mistletoe That Unforgettable Christmas A Christmas Stocking Contact: Tom Piercy 01536 712 581 KU3A Christmas Meeting December 13, 2016 Order of Proceedings
1.30pm Doors open. Welcoming Bucks Fizz. (Note: all refreshments are FREE today)
The picture above is of David standing beside one of his Chinese wall hangings, which is particularly beautiful.
Purchase your Raffle Tickets 1.50pm Take your seats, please, for notices.
Contact: Jo Beaver on 01933 224 474 or Barbara Goodall on 01536 523 259
2.00 – 2.45pm Singing for Pleasure Groups A and B Musical entertainment
Wining and Dining - We are going to the Snooty Fox Lowick for our Xmas evening out on December 6th at 7.0pm. If you wish to join us please let me know by the November U3A meeting, the cost is £25 for a three course meal and a £10 deposit is required when booking.
2.45pm onwards Refreshments, Judging of Christmas Dressing-up Competition (Note: Chairman is ineligible), Winning Raffle Tickets announced.
Contact: Christine Strachan 01536 515 730
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Kettering U3A
Kettering U3A Interest Group Timetable Please contact group co-ordinator for more information before joining a group Day No fixed day Safe Driving
Co-ordinator
Tel.no
Venue
Frequency
Time
Steve Clorley Roy Franklin Ray Bradbury Bridget Ling Maureen Curd
01832 732342 01536 482808 01536 516587 01536 515816 01832 732361
varies varies varies varies varies
varies varies varies varies varies
varies varies varies varies varies
01536 510354 01536 523867 01536 392716 01536 725925 01536 744753 01536 711976
Home 3rd Monday Home 1st & 3rd Mondays Counties CommunityCentre 1st Monday
10.00 – 12 noon 10.00 – 12 noon 2.00 – 4.00pm
Family History Photography
Marian Tucker Annette Chidwick Maggi McGuire Eileen Mason Richard Boyles Trevor Rudkin
LDS Church, Rothwell Road 2nd Monday varies 1st Monday
2.00 – 4.00pm 2.00 – 4.00pm
English Studies
Mary Wildman
01536 741222
Home
2nd & 4th Mondays
2.00 – 4.00pm
Richard Boyles Richard Ling Diana Ellis Maggi McGuire Sue Hart Joan Allingham Tom Piercy
01536 744753 01536 515816 01536 723380 01536 392716 01536 724635 01536 722610 01536 712 581
ASDA, Kettering Parish Church Rooms Home varies
2nd Tuesday 2nd Tuesday 2nd & 4th Tuesday 4th Tuesday
2.00 – 4.00pm 2.00 – 4.00pm 2.00pm varies
Home Kettering Library
weekly 1st Tuesday
1.30 – 4.00pm 2.00—4.00 pm
Maggi McGuire Eileen Mason Joe Fletcher Bob Thorogood Pauline Parkin Janet Clements Eileen Mason Jean Beaver John Flower Pauline Parkin Christine Strachan
01536 392716 01536 725925 01536 722399 01933 650551 01536 799197 01536 507721 01536 725925 01933 224474 01536 764 541 01536 799 197 01536 515730
Home
2nd Wednesday
10.00-12 noon
Home varies varies varies varies St.Andrews Church varies Home varies
Fortnightly 2nd & 4th Wednesday 4th Wednesday 3rd Wednesday 3rd Wednesday 2nd & 4th Wednesday 1st Wednesday 1st Wednesday 2nd Wednesday
9.30 – 11.00 am 2.00 – 4.00pm 2.00 – 4.00pm 2.00pm 2.00pm 10.30—12 noon 10.00 start 2.00 - 4.00pm varies
Christine Strachan Derek Warren Mary Wildman Barbara Goodall Jo Beaver
01536 515730 01536 518560 01536 741222 01536 523259 01933 224474
varies varies Home
3rd Thursday 2nd Thursday Fortnightly
2.00 – 4.00pm varies 10.00-12.00
Parish Church Rooms
2nd & 4th Thursdays
1.15 – 3.15pm
Sue Macfarlane Janet Chivers Michele Junin Alan Stephens
01536 523754 01536 214 250 01536 671 971 01536 726911
Bridge Club, Kettering Kino Lounge, Market Place Lamb&Holme, West Street Pytchley Golf Club
weekly 1st Friday 3rd Friday Every Friday
1.30 – 4.00pm 10.00 – 11.30am 2.00—4.00pm 1.00 – 4.00pm
Co-ordinator
Tel.no
Venue
Frequency
Time
Canasta
Margaret Hall
01536 512215
Kettering Bridge Club
Weekly
2.00-4.30pm
Swimming
Isabel Collins
01536 520971
Kettering Pool
Weekly
9.00-9.45am
Ballroom Dancing
Pat Johnson
01536 483398
Singing A
Jill Dee
01536 514054
Fuller Church
Fortnightly Fridays
10.00-11.45
Singing B
Mary Wildman
01536 741222
Fuller Church
Alternate Fridays
10.00-11.45
Gardening Heartbeat Travel Monday Card Making Knit and Natter History
Tuesday Computers Discussion Group French Lunch Club Sugarcraft Writers Group Wednesday Creative Cards German Conversation Spanish Conversation Bookworms Looking at Churches Musical Circles 2 Country Dancing Walking Stitchin’ Time Wining & Dining Thursday Canals & Waterways Country Matters Busy Needles Water Colour Painting Friday Bridge Friday Pop In French Conversation Golf
Joint Meeting with Ise Valley U3A Day
Monday
Friday 2nd & 4th Friday
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